The Private Sector Commis-sion last night called for the voluntary removal of roadblocks set up during the Linden power subsidy unrest and it also urged the government to take prompt action on and affix deadlines to various commitments such as liberalized TV broadcasting in the town and the setting up of a team to advance economic development.
Stating that the present blocking of roads to interior and industrial activities in Linden is causing enormous dislocation and millions in losses, the PSC said the time has come for the matter to be speedily resolved.
“We therefore urge the immediate and voluntary removal of the roadblocks. The future of our country and the economic well being of the people of not only Linden but also all the four regions being affected are at stake. Job creation requires the investment of private capital in a low risk environment”, the PSC declared.
It also cited areas that the government needed to act on:
-Liberalisation of television broadcasting in the Linden area in keeping with democratic norms, giving particular support to Trade and Skill development programming
– Create a skilled, qualified and empowered team of civil society leaders with the vision to deal with the issue of economic development in the Linden area. And who will work along with people of Linden and the appropriate Government ministries to turn Linden into the Manaus of Guyana.
– The re-establishment of a Micro-Finance scheme using the successful SEBRAE management and outreach model.
The PSC said that over the past week it has held meetings with the Government, APNU, the AFC, the Region 10 Chairman and the parliamentary representatives for Linden. Further, on Thursday a team led by the Chairman of the PSC travelled to Linden to meet with stakeholders.
It noted that out of its round of meetings, the PSC had urged President Ramotar to set up a Commission of Inquiry into the killing of three Linden protesters on July 18, retain an independent pathologist as well as to address the nation and that these things were done.
The statement added the PSC is committed to working closely with Guyana and Region 10 stakeholders to create the management structures proposed and to promote agricultural development.
