The Amaila hydro fallout highlights the disrespect for the people

Aug 22, 2013 Letters

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DEAR EDITOR,
The fallout from the Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project (AFHP) brings forcefully to this nation the disrespect harboured by individuals and groups for the people as we continue to witness the Private Sector Commission (PSC)’s active role to deny citizens their constitutional right to: 1) access to information and 2) involvement in national-decision making.
The PSC’s recent statement, riddled with name-calling and verbal attacks to persons standing up and questioning the conceptualisation and development of the AFHP, has brought to light the inconsistencies perpetuated daily by this government and forces the GTUC to believe the PSC is not interested in having the nation’s business conducted consistent with acceptable international standards and probity, but more as the enforcer for corrupt and abusive practices.
Every foreign investment, regardless of circumstance, the private sector is prepared to embrace, even if it requires being a party to denying citizens/workers their rights and see the plundering/abuses of the nation’s resources. It is therefore not unreasonable to say the PSC’s primary objective is money, since the issue of constitutional rights and the rule of law are not expressed in its vocabulary and upheld in behaviour.
The GTUC engaged this body two years ago regarding the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) denying workers their right to belong to a union of choice and bargain collectively. This sector gave the GTUC the assurance it will be engaging the government and employer with a view of having this matter resolved and return to us. The GTUC is yet to hear what, if anything, was done.
Behind closed doors, the PSC accepts the wrongdoing of members in the private sector family, but refuses to act and correct these injustices. Yet at the same time whenever the government conceptualises a scheme that would bring instant gratification to the executive and private sector, the PSC thinks it is incumbent upon the body to treat the citizens like cattle, by engaging in acts to herd them in one direction.
Let it be known the attacks on those raising concerns about the AFHP, said concerns were never credibly refuted by the government and the PSC. What is obvious is this body has joined the infantile behaviour of attacking the messengers and ignoring the message. If the PSC knows critics are operating with inadequate information, then it has a civic duty to ensure the constitutional right of individuals/citizens is respected and all documentation pertaining to the project be given to those analysing it.
Let the documents be placed in the public domain, inclusive of the National Assembly, which would allow stakeholders to analyse and make a final determination. In the absence of this, attacking the commentators that they are ill-informed, speaks to a misplaced sense of moneyed arrogance and power. The prime minister is on public record committing to provide requested information. He must be called on to honour the commitment.
It must be said those analysing the AFHP are not opposed to hydropower. The concern is the project as currently configured is inimical to the economic wellbeing of the nation. As such, it is important opinions be expressed with a view of realising a project that satisfies the desires of the people. The principal responsibility to ensure this resides with the president and Mr. Ramotar cannot be calling people names and demonising them and expect cooperation or hope to earn the respect and support of those he demonises. He is being advised as the nation’s chief public servant, Massa days are over.
Further, the national deliberation on the AFHP is no different to the USA deliberation on the Oil Keystone Pipeline which continues to see analyses, support and criticisms from the legislature and other stakeholders in that society. The effort by the USA president to steer said discussions through deliberative tones as he strives for consensus among the various groups is a lesson in quality leadership our president should be encouraged to embrace.
Note must be taken of the USA ambassador’s statement: “Until recently the project, which has been under development for six years under Sithe Global, appeared to enjoy the implicit support of all political parties. In recent weeks, however, the project suddenly became enmeshed in political battles that had little to do with the potential of the project to generate cheaper, more reliable, and more environmentally friendly energy for decades to come.”
As Guyanese we must recognize, in this instance, the ambassador is looking out for America’s business interest, which is among his roles and responsibilities. We must acknowledge this, but not be misguided by it. For at the end of the day, it is we, the taxpayers who will have to live with the consequences of a decision of this magnitude not properly thought out and can subject itself to probity. As Guyanese our national interest requires adherence to our constitution, laws, respect for the citizenry and prudent management of our resources.
Lincoln Lewis
General Secretary, GTUC

 

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