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Don’t ignore the lone voice

Sep 10, 2008 Features / Columnists

The Parrot is worried about the consequences of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union (EU); worried equally if it is signed or not.

Our country has been trekking on the path of development over the years, so much so that it has been reclassified; from one in the HIPC to a developing one. The developments we have seen over the years can be stymied as a result of the EPA whether we are “on board” or not.

The EPA has basically divided CARICOM. While some have “jumped” and signed, and others have seemingly been in favour, Guyana has been the lone dissenting voice.

Let’s not be fooled; our situation, in terms of our trade, is vastly different from other countries in the region which are “dancing” to the EU’s tune. While they can “dance” easily, we cannot afford to be involved in that kind of “luxury”.

Uncle Bharrat has been adamant in his criticisms of sections of the agreement. I alluded to this in a previous squawk.

His position has been supported by leading luminaries here. Sir Shridath, Sir Ron, Uncle Murray from the Place of CONgress, the Labour Movement, the Religious Community, the Private Sector and other sections of our society have voiced their support prior to, and during the consultations held recently. Oh, by the way Freddie, these are people; people who were consulted. Just in case you are wondering.

The unanimous support for Uncle Bharrat’s position on the EPA must be commended. It shows that Guyanese (people, Freddie) can be bipartisan on national issues, not that it is happening for the first time. After all, the consequences are clear to all and sundry.

This brings me to the point of the seemingly increased division in CARICOM. It is supposed to be a “united” region; a region that should present a “common” position.

It didn’t. Self interest stepped in. CARICOM should therefore be renamed from the Caribbean Community/Caribbean Common Market to CAribbean Region Inability for COmmon Mission.

This best reflects the region at this time of an ultimate test; one of the oldest, if not the oldest integration movement that has moved from real integration.

History will bear Uncle Bharrat and Guyana out on this issue. His stand seems to be the lone voice. History is punctuated with lone voices; voices that were vindicated decades after. Those who recall their science studies will remember the names I will allude to.

It can provide good research fodder for those who are unaware. Sir Isaac Newtown’s theory as to why the apple went down and not up was unheard of then.

Today our knowledge of gravity following his discovery equips us better in terms of aeronautical engineering, construction, etc.

Those who saw Archimedes running naked through the streets shouting “Eureka! Eureka!” thought he was crazy. Today his discovery makes it easier for us to understand the principles of floatation.

Christopher Columbus defied those who propagated that the earth was flat. His discovery of this part of the world vindicated his theory that it is round.

Today we all concur. The Parrot urges those who are quick to dismiss Uncle Bharrat’s position on the EPA to reconsider.

Reconsideration can vindicate him with time, as it did for those I mentioned. The lone voice can become the only voice; a voice that other Regional Heads may live to rue. Squawk! Squawk!

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