Dear Editor,
I refer to your front page report of the April 9, 2008 “Venezuelan Embassy donates food to Buxton farmers.”
First, we must compliment and sincerely thank the Venezuelans for this humanitarian act. Their concern is laudable and I am sure highly appreciated by all Guyanese. However, this kind gesture brings into sharp focus a rather serious matter.
When I met with groups in Buxton earlier, I could not help sharing their anguish, pain and grief. Persons who planted at the backlands to produce food, to make a living, to satisfy their basic food requirements, but most important, to give them a feeling of independence, self-respect and self-sufficiency were being frustrated.
Listening to stories told of harassment by certain ranks of the security forces (not all), my worst fears are now being realised, and that is, we are reducing a proud farming community to mendicancy, if not humiliation.
Next, with the availability of modern sophisticated surveillance equipment and technology, I hold the view that the total clearing of lands behind Buxton/Friendship is unnecessary.
Note this contradiction.
We have had suggestions from certain quarters that a helicopter can be fitted with equipment to detect the movement of persons who may be hiding in bushes (that is heat seeking capability), and lights to light up a football field etc. Yes, such technology is available.
What we see happening may be part of a long-term plan related to hegemony or to disposes and discourages particular sections of our community from being self sufficient and proud harvesters of home grown produce.
We must not have short memories. I lived through a period when by politically driven objectives, farmers were told that they could hold to ransom certain folks in the city if they refused to bring their agricultural produce to the market place.
Earlier, the plutocracy flooded out the agricultural lands of these very villages purchased by former slaves.
This is a very serious matter that should be openly debated for some sensible resolution. The farmers of Buxton must be allowed to return to their farms. If the Government truly wants to help they should use the equipment to ensure proper drainage and irrigation.
Maybe, only allow the planting of crops that do not grow above a height to be determined by the Security Forces.
Next question. Criminals will hide anywhere. Will the government clear all of the backlands along our coastal belt?
Yours faithfully,
Hamilton Green J.P
