MAPUSA: Over 150 lifeguards working for Drishti on Monday gathered near Bodgeshwar temple at Mapusa and discussed the issues and compiled a list of their demands.
A delegation of lifeguards will now meet Tourism Minister, Manohar Ajgaonkar later this week with their demands.
For nearly two weeks, several beaches across the State have no lifeguards making it dangerous for residents, stakeholders and tourists in Goa. While few lifeguards continue to remain on duty, others continue to be part of this strike.
They have demanded regularisation, timely payment of salary and other facilities. They also want to be recruited by a corporation or society. The lifeguards informed that they have submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister listing out their grievances and demands.
Former Aquem Baixo sarpanch Siddhesh Bhagat informed Herald that the lifeguards have to find a way forward.
“We have personally taken note of the demands of the striking lifeguards and will be presenting it before the Tourism Minister. A meeting with him is scheduled to be held either on Tuesday or Wednesday. These lifeguards are on strike for such a long time and the beaches are unguarded. They have got their salaries but are now demanding for bonuses and other facilities. Many have got termination letters over the last few days,” Bhagat informed.
Drishti’s five years contract with the Tourism Department ended in June but was extended up to December end.
It may be recalled that last week, the lifeguards had requested the concerned authorities to solve their issues at the earliest or will be forced to resign en masse.
