All gears work fine but I have to force the shifter into first gear. Is this a simple bushing problem or something more serious? PLEASE HELP !!!

probably bad bushings, but it could be out of adjustment too; check this page if you don't have a shop manual.

http://www.geocities.com/jonnyguru/vw/shifter.html

it details adjustment of the shift linkage, but you may have to read it a few times if you are not familiar with the contraption.

most likely, shifter base-plate, 2 small and 2 large bushing out near the trans and also the 2 shift rods at the trans. very common for this stuff to wear out