I was very impressed to see in the Stabroek News, May 16 edition an article reporting that the International Labour Organisation has named Guyana as one of five Caribbean countries with a good HIV workplace programme.

HIV is a worldwide phenomenon and many countries are making significant strides in stigma and discrimination awareness, especially in the workplace. Over the years several ministries have put policies and programmes in place to ease stigma against HIV infected workers.

This report is very refreshing in light of recent negativity in our country. It shows that emphasis is being placed on developmental issues.

Being comfortable in the work environment is the key to quality production. Efforts to ensure that HIV infected workers are in an environment where they are at ease would guarantee that overall production is satisfactory.

Regardless of a person’s HIV status that person has the right to be employed because he/she, like most of the working population, has families to support. These are also the persons whose skills are highly needed in various industries and therefore, cannot be lost.

I applaud the Ministries and organisations that execute HIV workplace programmes and encourage them to continue the good work.
MELANIE YARDE