A motion calling on President Donald Ramotar to appoint a commission of inquiry to investigate the incidence of trafficking in persons here was last night approved by the opposition but government rejected it saying it was not applicable in this instance.
The motion was brought by Opposition Leader David Granger and stated in the recital that “there have been credible reports that underdetermined numbers of persons, have been trafficked, kept in involuntary servitude and required to perform forced labour, particularly in the hinterland regions of Guyana, but also elsewhere.”
A total of ten speakers from both sides of the House made presentations during the debate.
Granger said that in accordance with the Commission of Inquiry Act, Chapter 19:03 the President may instruct a commission to inquire into any matter, which in the opinion of the President is for the public welfare. He called on President Ramotar to appoint a commission which will inquire into allegations and determine the extent of trafficking in persons. The commission should also make recommendations for the suppression and abolition of trafficking in persons.
However government, though attorney general Anil Nandlall, Minister of Home Clement Rohee and other ministers who presented during the debate stated that with measures already in place to deal with the issue, the last thing needed was another commission of inquiry.
