-Minister Rohee at Aviation Security Workshop
MINISTER of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee, yesterday outlined the accomplishments of the Airport Security Committee since its establishment at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). He was at the time delivering his address to participants at the Aviation Security Workshop at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal. The Home Affairs Minister pointed out that the successful realisation of the recommendations that emanate from this forum depends largely on inter-agency cooperation and collaboration.
He said that airport security is a matter that attracts governments, civil aviation authorities, aircraft industries, and law enforcement agencies around the world, since airports constitute an extremely important channel through which goods, services, and people pass on a daily basis.
“Airports, whether international or municipal, continue to be the prime targets of persons who are bent on using these facilities as a means to conduct nefarious activities. As such, it is important to put measures in place to prevent them from so doing,” Minister Rohee stated.
He explained that linked to the issue of airport security is the fight against terrorism, which, though believed to be an international phenomenon, also has many domestic manifestations.
“The administration of an airport has to be conscious of intended acts of terrorism that could be perpetrated at this facility, thus jeopardising the security of the State… terrorists would not think twice about destroying airport infrastructure that cost billions of dollars. This disrupts international traffic which sends a very serious signal with respect to the country’s image,” the minister highlighted.
The security of the State therefore, is inextricably linked to the safety measures that are adopted to maintain the integrity of the airport.       
Efforts have been made by the Airport Security Committee and the management of the CJIA to ensure that safety requirements are met.
Minister Rohee commended the efforts of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for the combined efforts that they have exerted over the years to intercept persons who seek to traffic narcotics through the airport.
He also stressed the need for all who are accredited to work at the airport to be loyal and trustworthy, as they have an important responsibility to ensure that the State’s security is not compromised.  
Members of the Airport Security Committee, which was established as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between several Government agencies and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, meet once every month at the Home Affairs Ministry.  
The ministry is currently working closely with the Ogle Airport Incorporated with a view to establishing a similar security body as at the CJIA.  
He assured of government’s continuous support towards the Committee to ensure that it effectively fulfills its mandate.  (GINA)