Two weeks after a chance encounter between President David Granger and Secretary of the Guyana Scrap Metal Recyclers Association (GSMRA) Michael Benjamin appeared to pave the way for the restoration of the scrap metal trade earlier than the tentative November 30 date given by government, Stabroek Business has learnt that there has, after all, been no change in the road map for the restoration of the trade and that its likely November resumption date remains unchanged.
In the face of this, Benjamin has said, “It is now in excess of a year since the scrap metal sector has been closed. There appears to be insufficient mindfulness of the fact that this has become a humanitarian situation.
“I was encouraged by my recent brief exchange with His Excellency, The President. He had enquired of me as to when last the business houses in the scrap metal sector had been able to do any trading. The question persuaded me that he is apprised of the humanitarian dimension to this matter. It is that consideration, I believe, that ought to help drive this issue.