Dear Editor,
I refer to Gokarran Sukhdeo’s `Wales Economic Basin can become centre of agriculture revolution in Guyana’ (SN Sep. 6 2020)
In general, I subscribe to the sentiments and proposals. If I may, I like to say that I know Gokarran for over 25 years. He is quite knowledgeable in Economics and Psychology. He is a retired Social Worker. He is also a novelist and a poet. Gokarran has written many articles dwelling on social problems, politics, and foreign affairs. He is astute, and genuine; and a scholar. He loves the outdoor life as well — hands-on gardening, fishing and camping. In addition, he feels comfortable playing his guitar and engaging anyone (whom he usually beats) in a game of chess. So difficult to place him in a box.
I like to say that sugar is integral to the economy, and for the sustenance of a large segment of the population. The sugar industry must be revitalized, even if subsidies are mandated. Too many families are dependent on it, not only historically, but also in real everyday practical life. American agribusinesses (and other enterprises) are highly subsidized making them predatorily competitive. Because of this, small economies are at a disadvantage. The WTO is also implicated. (Remember Lee Kyung-hae who took his life protesting, and many others in India who committed suicide). So if it becomes necessary let sugar be subsidized.
Others have written about the future of GuySuCo, the most recent Riaad Etheridge, Stabroek News, September 7, 2020.
GuySuCo must diversify; ethanol production; increase raw brown sugar; must go organic as much as possible by minimizing pesticides; (the world craves organics and non-GMO products); must stop burning so as to minimize pollution; must innovate by using trash for fuel, and adopt technology for cost saving efficiency without taking away food from the workers.
Canal Number One and Canal Two have been famous for the highest quality fruits and vegetables, especially in the years preceding the early 1960s. The farmers were ill-advised and/or instructed to plant sugarcane instead, to their misfortune later — unfortunately.
Gokarran’s proposed Wales Economic Basin seems sound and is full of hope. I support his proposal and I look forward to more of this.
Yours faithfully,
Gary Girdhari PhD
