As Seychellois workers joined the rest of the world to celebrate World Labour Day on May 1, he thanked all workers for their resilience and hard work.
In wishing all workers a happy Labour Day, Ramkalawan said, “It is a proud day where we celebrate workers’ contributions towards our country’s economic growth and reflect on how we can perform better to bring more prosperity.”
He said that the present employment situation indicates positive outcomes ahead and, since last year, Seychelles has observed a rise in the number of job opportunities and a reduction in the number of organisations applying for redundancy.
Ramkalawan called on all workers “to see the importance of remaining in your employment as we are still undergoing a period of uncertainty and risks. Workers comprise a critical group that remains vulnerable to the adverse effects of COVID-19 pandemic. We continuously need committed and hardworking men and women to overcome these challenges.
Meanwhile, the office of the leader of the United Seychelles (US) Party, Patrick Herminie, said that Labour Day is an opportunity to campaign for workers’ rights, show solidarity and celebrate the achievements of workers.
“The United Seychelles Party salutes all workers working tirelessly to build our economy and we vow to continue to fight for improvements in wages and working conditions through decisive actions…People should be at the centre of development – a guiding principle enshrined in the Constitution of the United Seychelles Party which remains relevant in today’s economic landscape,” said United Seychelles, the country’s main opposition party.
“It is only through hard work, efforts and resolute courage that our beloved nation will keep on moving. Once again, United Seychelles wishes all the workers in Seychelles peaceful and safe celebrations with family and friends,” said the office of the party leader.
The ruling party, Linyon Demokratik Seselwa (LDS), wished all workers in Seychelles a happy celebration, in safety and security, of this day in their honour.
In its message, LDS thanked all hardworking Seychellois men and women for their personal contributions to the country’s development.
“The personal effort and devotion of everyone are what have contributed to Seychelles being the number one country on the African continent in terms of GDP growth in the period of recovery. However, we must be mindful that the world economy remains fragile, especially with the war between Ukraine and Russia,” said LDS.
The party said it recognises that Seychelles’ labour force remains the driving force in the quest to succeed as a developing nation.