Animal welfare group welcomes President’s commitment to tackling animal cruelty

Dear Editor,
We welcome the recent announcement by His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali that the Government would be providing greater support for the wellbeing of animals. We unreservedly support His Excellency’s assertions that, as a nation, we will be judged by the way we treat animals, and that such ‘soft issues’ importantly add to the story of who we are as Guyanese.
Paws For A Cause – Guyana wholeheartedly believes that Guyanese can become more compassionate and caring towards each other when children in particular are taught to be compassionate and caring towards animals. Alternatively, animal abuse can often be an indication of, or trigger for, violent tendencies towards other humans. As such, we are elated by His Excellency’s pledge that “direct investment and allocations will be made to support associations and organisations in our efforts to prevent cruelty against animals.”
This focus on animal welfare and pledge of direct budgetary support are unprecedented at a public policy level, especially coming from the President of our nation himself. Following our recent meeting with Her Excellency Arya Ali, wherein she committed to supporting efforts to improve standards of care and wellbeing for animals, we are more optimistic about the future of animal welfare in Guyana.
Our President and First Lady have shown exemplary leadership and commitment to the pursuit of the ‘greater good’, and we encourage all animal lovers to support their noble work.
While organisations such as ours need to continue playing an important role in protecting animals, His Excellency has sent a clear message that his Government would not tolerate animal abuse. We all, as citizens, must encourage and ensure that public officials diligently carry out His Excellency’s call for improved animal welfare across our great country.

Sincerely,
Paws For A Cause –
Guyana