PERHAPS APNU had reasons for chopping the budget slated for the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). However, I am very disappointed that the $4 million for the language revival programme was chopped. I am delighted to know that such a programme had existed because for decades I have encouraged Amerindians to strive hard to retain their languages and culture, in the face of increasing pressure from outsiders (coastlanders) swamping their environment.
Language (and culture!) retention in Guyana (as it is elsewhere) is vital for its social, anthropological, economic and soundness, and has special relevance considering our country’s history and cultural mosaic. Carl Parker Snr.’s letter on ‘cutting the Amerindian vote’ (KN 16-04-14) failed to address the reasons why the ADF was chopped.

DEVANAND BHAGWAN