Dear Editor,
Guyana’s alcohol dilemma continues as stories of violence continue with references to alcohol helping in the losing of inhibitions. There are stories of people who are attacking friends and relatives and others. In a column entitled ‘The Culture of Alcohol’ on Sunday, Feb 4, in the Sunday Chronicle, Ms Caitlin Vieira wrote about Guyana’s problem with alcohol and referenced the “commonality, accessibility and affordability” of alcohol as contributing to the problem.
There is irony, that the Republic, though not dealing with its alcohol problem, has alcohol companies sponsoring events around the Republic anniversary. One particular series of events seems targeted at lovers of Chutney and ‘Indian’ entertainment. The alcohol is the core of the promotion and there is no pretence even at fine writing about ‘drinking responsibly’ or ‘No children allowed.’
There are problems with alcohol consumption in Guyana and it is unfortunate that the Republic celebrations seem to serve towards the continuation of the problem, rather than dealing with it.
Yours faithfully,
Vidyaratha Kissoon
