A recent social media video from local entrepreneur Gio Designs has ignited a heated conversation across Trinidad and Tobago. In the video, the business owner expresses frustration over finding reliable staff for a car wash, claiming some workers are late, absent, or uninterested even when offered steady pay and meals. The remarks drew thousands of reactions and comments, with many business owners agreeing and many workers pushing back.
The moment has opened a wider national question:
Are workers in Trinidad and Tobago becoming too lazy, or are working conditions pushing people away from certain jobs?
A sentiment many employers share
Several small business owners who commented on the video said they struggle daily with staffing. Common complaints include lateness, absenteeism, and workers leaving after short periods. Some employers say they have tried hourly wages, salaries, flexible schedules and even added perks such as meals or transport assistance, but still face reliability issues.
For small operations like car washes, construction crews, food outlets and retail shops, staffing instability can threaten survival. Business owners argue that when they show up every day to keep operations running, they expect the same commitment from employees. Some say they are increasingly turning to migrant labour because those workers appear more consistent and willing to work long hours.
This perception has grown across certain sectors. Many employers say they are not looking for extraordinary effort, only punctuality, consistency and a willingness to work.
Workers push back
On the other side of the debate, many workers and members of the public say the conversation cannot focus on attitude alone. They argue that pay, job stability and working conditions must also be examined.
Several commenters on the viral post asked whether wages are livable, whether overtime is respected and whether basic protections such as proper safety gear, transportation support or consistent days off are provided. Others pointed to the rising cost of living, noting that some entry level jobs pay near minimum wage while rent, groceries and transportation continue to increase.
Some workers say they are not unwilling to work but are selective about jobs that do not offer long term growth or sustainable income. Others noted that transportation challenges, especially for early morning or late night shifts, can affect attendance.
This perspective suggests that what some employers interpret as laziness may sometimes be disengagement or burnout rather than a lack of work ethic.
The migrant labour factor
One of the most sensitive elements of the debate involves comparisons between local and migrant workers. Many employers say migrant workers often arrive early, accept longer hours and remain consistent. Workers who commented on the video, however, noted that migrants may accept lower wages or more demanding conditions because they have fewer options.
Labour experts have long said that this dynamic is not unique to Trinidad and Tobago. In many countries, migrant labour fills gaps in sectors where wages are low and work is physically demanding. While employers may see higher reliability, local workers may see downward pressure on wages and opportunities.
This tension can create a perception that locals are less hardworking, even when the underlying issue may be economic rather than cultural.
A deeper issue of incentives and expectations
Economists and workplace analysts often say productivity and work culture are shaped by incentives. When workers feel valued, see clear opportunities for advancement and earn enough to sustain themselves, motivation tends to increase. When businesses operate on tight margins and struggle to offer higher wages or benefits, they may expect dedication without being able to provide strong incentives.
The result is a cycle of frustration. Employers feel workers are not committed. Workers feel jobs do not offer enough stability or growth. Both sides feel misunderstood.
Not a simple answer
The reaction to the viral video shows that this issue is not black and white. Many people agree that reliability and punctuality are essential in any workplace. At the same time, many believe that wages, respect and working conditions must also be part of the conversation.
Trinidad and Tobago has no shortage of hardworking people. From construction sites and farms to production crews and small businesses, many workers put in long hours every day. But the debate suggests that expectations on both sides may be shifting.
Moving forward
The discussion sparked by the viral video highlights the need for honest dialogue between employers and workers. Employers may need to examine pay structures, conditions and management practices. Workers may need to consider consistency, professionalism and commitment. In the end, a strong workforce and strong businesses depend on both sides working together.
The question remains one many are now asking across the country:
Are workers becoming too lazy, or are working conditions making it harder for them to stay motivated?
The answer, as the national conversation shows, likely lies somewhere in between.
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