The ERC takes on Anthony Vieira

Mar 02, 2011 Letters

Dear Editor
The Ethnic Relations Commission has noted the reappearance of Mr. Anthony Vieira in the letter column of the Kaieteur News (16 February 2011). It seems that he has emerged with his thoughts more addled than before he went into hibernation and on his awakening he has taken up exactly where he left off – attacking the ERC.
Normal humans emerging from a period of rest are usually clear headed and full of new ideas. This seems not to be the case with Mr. Vieira.
The ERC respects the right of Mr. Vieira to have an opinion, however flawed it may be and through whatever misguided process he would have arrived at it. But for the good of the nation, Mr. Vieira should stick with facts when he makes his opinion public.
To put him on track (if that is possible) the ERC calls on Mr. Vieira to check the research he points to in his letter.
Nowhere is it stated that Afro or Mixed Guyanese or Amerindians are being badly treated.
He was a member of the National Assembly. He should have read the documents. They are also available on the ERC’s website: www.ethnicrelations.org.gy
On the matter of the ERC writing broadcasters to attend ERC meetings, we take it that Vieira is speaking of the discussion the ERC (facilitated) with the media which has been dubbed ‘Media Encounter 2011’. For the record, Media Encounter 2011 is an activity aimed at educating, especially young editors, reporters, publishers and others in the broadcasting and printing business of the responsibilities that come with free speech.
Mr. Vieira is aware of these responsibilities and it seems he wants to keep such knowledge to himself.
If not, why would he attempt to deny the many young people in the broadcasting and printing businesses the opportunity of learning what they should and should not publish.
Vieira may have the resources to answer charges in a court when he flouts the Law but those who do not have such resources need to be informed so they can stay on the right side of the Law.
The ERC will not presume to speak for the ACB but it is good that Mr. Vieira recognizes its authority. However, as Vieira well knows, the ACB as its name states, is an advisory body. It is also an interim body.
What persons practising in the broadcasting and printing business need to know is that there are two pieces of legislation; the Racial Hostility Act and the Representation of the People Act which puts specific responsibilities on them and, to quote Mr. Vieira, ‘that is written in stone!’
Sincerely,
Azeem Khan
Public Relations Officer
Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC)

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