Preserving Guyana’s forests is vital and profitable

TIMES INT'L

Dear Editor,

It was sweet to read the caption: “Guyana gets five million euros for protected areas.” According to details, gleaned from various sections of the media, the governments of Guyana and Germany have actually finalised an agreement to utilise five million euros, in funds for the development of the Guyana Protected Areas System (GPAS).

Proving also that this is no haram-scaram business, the funds will be channelled (orderly and timely too) through the German Development Bank, with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, functioning as the implementing agency, for the continuation of the project.

Also this realisation is not a mere ad hoc one. As explained by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud. Minister Persaud elaborated on the beginning and now continuing of this particular happening. It goes back to the Protected Areas Commission, a major component of the National Protected Areas Act. This act, in fact, was passed by the last Parliament and assented to by former president, Bharrat Jagdeo. So I am more than pleased that patience, persistence and planning are all redounding to the great benefit of Guyana.

The money accrued will target Phase One of the project – the Kaieteur Falls, Kanuku Mountains and Shell Beach. By the way, for me it does not matter which phase and which area. My joy resides in the fact that Guyana’s forest is being preserved, and it is making a significant contribution to the world, while at the same time, earning much needed funds. Also, I am elated that Robert Persaud is not relenting in his national endeavours. This initial phase is expected to run for a maximum of two years. The funds will also be used to further support the country’s efforts to conserve Guyana’s forests, through the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the National Protected Areas System.

So here again, it is nice to know that the idea is not just about continuity, but about the ‘big picture’ as well.

In closing, I am hoping that Guyanese will soon see the important a role the country has in the international community.

Yours truly,

Rajendra Harrichand

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