“Accelerated development of our Indigenous people is the Government’s policy” – PM Nagamootoo

dd5427ce864bb9a692d80d44f7df803c_XLGeorgetown: During a courtesy visit, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo assured the delegation from St Cuthbert’s Missionthat the Government will do all in its power to afford the Indigenous people the same opportunities as all other citizens of Guyana.

 At his Office, on Shiv Chanderpaulhe charged Toshao Lennox Schuman with the responsibility when he returns to his village to explain to residents what is happening presently at our borders. “I am giving you some information to be alert on what is happening at our borders presently.”

Speaking specifically to the younger persons in the delegation, Prime Minister challenged them “do not let this be your only visit to my office and the Ministry of the Presidency but I hope in the future you will be here as employees or even occupying the President’s chair.”

He emphasised that it is the policy of the Government of Guyana to be able to provide the same opportunities for all and as such we will do all in our power to make this a reality.  “Accelerating the development of the people of Indigenous origin is the policy of this Government and we believe you deserve equal rights as all others. Our Indigenous people are the protectors of our forest, our rivers, our animals, and our environment.”

Speaking briefly Toshao Lennox Schuman explained that the village is of Lokono (Arawak) descendants and “it is our duty to protect the integrityof our geographical and territorial boundaries.”

Schuman related a recent experience that occurred with the previous administration, “I attempted to engage the then Minister of Amerindian Affairs for a meeting at Office of the President and I was turned away at the gate because I was inappropriately dressed and today we can approach your office in our traditional wear and not be turned away.”  This he noted speaks volumes of the new administration

“We are here in our traditional garments to show all how proud we are of our traditional wear.”