Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my common sense opinion regarding the recent decision made by the government to hire engineers from Cuba to address the incompetence within the Guyana Power and Light (GPL). While I understand the urgent need for skilled electrical engineers to rectify the electricity debacle, I believe this decision raises pertinent questions, particularly in the context of Guyana’s membership in CARICOM.
CARICOM was established on the principles of regional integration and cooperation, aiming to foster economic development, social justice, and political stability among its member states. A crucial aspect of this vision is the facilitation of the free movement of labour across member states, allowing professionals to contribute their expertise where it is most needed within the region.
However, the decision to recruit engineers from outside the CARICOM community, particularly from a non-member state like Cuba, appears to contradict the principles of regional integration and labour mobility. It raises doubts about the government’s commitment to harnessing the talent and expertise available within the Caribbean region before seeking external assistance.
Guyana boasts a pool of skilled professionals within its borders and across the wider CARICOM community who are more than capable of contributing to infrastructure projects and other initiatives. By prioritizing the hiring of Cuban engineers over local and regional talent, the government risks undermining the spirit of solidarity and cooperation that underpins CARICOM.
Additionally, engaging Spanish-speaking Cuban engineers may pose challenges for the long-term sustainability of the project and the transfer of knowledge and skills to local communities. While collaboration with international partners can be advantageous, it should not come at the expense of nurturing local talent and expertise.
In light of the obvious, I urge the Guyana government to reconsider its approach to sourcing engineering talent to address the power situation. Rather than seeking solutions beyond the region, the government should prioritize the development and utilization of local and regional expertise, in accordance with the principles of regional integration and labour mobility.
Sincerely,
Keith Bernard
