Dear Editor,
I saw the caption, ‘Botanical Gardens is now a bird sanctuary,’ in Stabroek News, November 22.
The articles states: “Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Manniram Prashad on Friday declared the Botanical Gardens a bird sanctuary, at a ceremony hosted as part of this year’s Tourism Awareness month of activities.“
I have always assumed that all botanical gardens in Guyana are in effect, under existing law, not only bird, but also animal sanctuaries. In fact even the trees and shrubs are protected.
The Government Botanical Gardens Regulations made under section 2 of the Public Gardens and Agricultural Shows Act, Chapter 68:05 of the laws of Guyana, make the following provisions:-
Regulation10. The molesting or destruction of any animal, whether wild or domesticated, or any bird or bird’s nest is prohibited.
Regulation 5. Gathering flowers, leaves, fruits or seeds or damaging in any way trees, shrubs, or plants…etc is prohibited.
Regulation 8. No person shall annoy or interfere with any other person using or enjoying the Gardens, nor shall anyone throw or discharge any stone or other missile to the damage or danger or any person, animal or bird or to the injury of any tree, shrub or plant.
Regulation 11. Racing, fishing by nets, angling shooting, sports and games are prohibited. Firearms, airguns or pistols shall not be brought into the Gardens.
Regulation 14. Dogs are not allowed in the Gardens except on leash or chain.
The Regulations also prohibit littering, fire or fireworks, stray animals, intoxicated persons, loitering, music, etc.
The terms bird or animal sanctuary are not used in the law but the above do in effect make adequate provision for the Botanical Garden to be a bird and animal sanctuary.
I will be sending a copy of this letter to the Minister’s Personal Assistant.
Yours faithfully,
Winston Moore
