PNCR-1G supports the model
The motion on Guyana’s Model of a Low Carbon Development Path was late last evening approved by the National Assembly with the support of the opposition, but with some reservations.

Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud, who moved the motion in the absence of Prime Minister and Minister of Public Works Samuel Hinds, told the House that the visionary strategy demonstrates how Guyana can use its forest to mitigate climate change, while at the same time obtaining compensation for the services it provides to the world.

He also pointed out that there was, wide and inclusive consultations on the strategy among all stakeholders following international best practices.

Alliance for Change (AFC) Chairman, Kemraj Ramjattan said his party supports the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) but expressed concerns about the Government’s slow pace or non- implementation of schemes that were approved by the National Assembly.

People’s National Congress Reform-One Guyana (PNCR-1G) Parliamentarian, Winston Murray, acknowledged the timeliness of the strategy in light of the overwhelming and irrefutable evidence of the danger of climate change.

He also lauded the work of President Bharrat Jagdeo in championing the fight against climate change both at the local and international levels.

The PNCR member stressed that the local forest represents the national patrimony of the Guyanese people and any money received for its services to the world must be used in a manner that will ensure all stakeholders enjoy equitable benefits.

He also calls for full transparency in the management of any proceeds obtained from the Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) initiative.

His colleague, Lance Carberry, stressed that the PNCR-1G supports the LCDS because of the financial benefits it will bring for Guyana but opposed the wording of the Guyana Model of a Low Carbon Development Path motion.

The PNCR -1G later walked out of the National Assembly before the motion was carried.
(See full story in tomorrow’s issue.)