CoI on sugar industry recommended privatisation

Dear Editor,

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo reportedly referred to a letter which gives me authorisation to discuss the possible privatization of GuySuCo, in whole or in part, with potential investors; and he accuses the APNU/AFC Government of misleading the Guyanese people and making a sham of consultations with stakeholders.

Mr Jagdeo is misguided on this issue.

This sensitisation of possible investors tells the story of the Government’s efforts to save the sugar industry. The CoI on the sugar industry recommended privatisation among the options to save the industry. Note that this authorisation is to enter into discussions, as distinct from negotiations.

In my view, it is good strategy to sensitise possible investors to this possible opportunity, while holding consultations with stakeholders to determine the best possible options for saving the industry, its workforce and their families.

So the consultations are not a sham; and the efforts to sensitise suitably qualified companies, particularly those with the capital, experience, expertise and commitment to add value and diversify, is a laudable approach, especially if other options fail to save the industry.

Regards,

Wesley Kirton