-GBTI offers farmers loans at reduced rates
THE Ministry of Agriculture is currently finalising its recovery plan for Lethem and surrounding communities, and consignments were expected to leave last night for areas affected by flooding in Region 9. This was announced by Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud when he provided the media with an update on relief efforts in the Region and additional plans of the Ministry. These efforts, the minister said, will be extended to other areas that are affected by flooding, including Upper Berbice.
The consignments of chemicals, planting materials and veterinary supplies will be leaving Georgetown for Lethem, Annai, Aishalton and other affected areas.
“This is just the first wave in terms of recovery. We will also be sending in additional staff; we have staff posted at critical sub areas, central points that cover a number of areas. And starting tonight (Thursday night) we will be deputing a very senior staff to be based within Region 9 to coordinate the recovery effort now that we are about to finalise what are the interventions we will be making, once the flood waters recede. So, we don’t want there to be any lag between the flood waters receding and our procuring and mobilising supplies; and we are looking from our existing programmes and existing activities to have these supplies ready,” Minister Persaud said.
Meanwhile, the minister expressed his appreciation for an initiative that is being undertaken by the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) that will see the bank providing financing for affected farmers.
“I have just received a memo from the Chief Executive Officer that  the bank would be providing financing to those affected by the flood, particularly farmers, at an interest rate of just about six percent which we know is far less than the regular interest rate. Persons have a max repayment period of 36 months and equity in terms of collateral would not be required. The bank has stated that it has different levels in terms of what would be these small unsecured loans, up to what levels it would be making these available,” the minister said. 
The bank will be granting small unsecured loans up to $350,000 to individuals who may need such assistance during this period. The loans can be accessed for purposes including agriculture, repairs to property, re-purchase of stock including livestock, and the replacement of consumer items, such as furniture.

The minster announced that his ministry will be working closely with the bank to ensure that those who are affected benefit from this financing facility which will supplement Government’s efforts.
“I think the fact that we have seen this type of activity and willingness to help, and there are other groups too helping on the ground, shows that we are getting the type of national response, a concerted and focused response in this regard; and I think all this will aid the quick recovery of Lethem and the neighbouring areas,” Minister Persaud said.
He criticised the opposition parties for denigrating the relief efforts by government.
“This certainly contrasts what we have seen. Take for instance, by the Granger-led opposition, in terms of being constructive; we have seen efforts to misrepresent the relief efforts that are taking place and I think that is uncalled for, I think it is silly, it is unhelpful, to look at this humanitarian situation and try to convert that into some political football. It is unbecoming and in fact it is distasteful.”
“ And I think the action of GBTI and other stakeholders certainly shows what responsible responses are needed, rather than what we consider as people trying to inject politics into people’s suffering; I think that is totally uncalled for,” the Minister said.
Minister Persaud is expected to visit Region 9 and the Upper Berbice area again today to ascertain what additional measures are needed to provide assistance to residents.

Today’s visit will determine what further interventions are necessary, bearing in mind that the President  “is treating this as a national emergency, and we will respond accordingly.”  (GINA)