The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) says it supports government’s initiatives to ensure policies/administrative acts are non-discriminatory against Chinese.
The ERC made this declaration at a recent meeting President Bharrat Jagdeo held with the Chinese community in Guyana, a press release said. It noted too that the ERC is a constitutional commission mandated to ensure equal access and equal opportunities for all and as such it welcomes the President’s initiative to implement a standardized system of non-discriminatory and discretionary treatment.
It is against this background that the Commission urges all state and private sector agencies to develop a similar policy that covers Chinese and other non-nationals living in Guyana.
According to the release the ERC held a consultation with the Chinese community on June 17, 2008 where matters including immigration, citizenship/naturalisation, and security and protection services were discussed. The president also addressed these issues at the December 3 meeting.
The ERC says that under the Representation of the People Act and Racial Hostility Act, it can sanction a person found guilty of discriminatory practices. At the same time, it encourages the nation to practice tolerance and respect among all ethnic groups.
