A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Presidential Candidate Brigadier David Granger has responded promptly and positively to requests for greater security by fishermen in the East Berbice-Corentyne Region.
Mr. Granger held a face-to-face meeting in the Upper Corentyne with aggrieved fishermen who had been affected by the current wave of maritime piracy.
According to a statement yesterday from his party, APNU, he listened to the complaints from fishermen, some of whom had been beaten and robbed repeatedly by pirates. They reported enormous losses of engines, equipment, fish catch, fish glue, gasoline, seines and personal effects. 
APNU said the fishermen called for greater protection from the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard and more intensive investigations by the police. They made comparisons between the security situation in Suriname and with Guyana, pointing out that the Surinamese frequently patrol the Corentyne with both naval vessels and helicopters in order to ensure order and security.
Upper Corentyne fishermen, during the visit which took place on Thursday last, recalled the disappearance of five Guyanese fishermen in August aboard the Reshma which was found abandoned and the attacks on seven Guyanese fishing boats off Nieuw Nickerie in September.

Mr. Granger emphasised the economic importance of fishing at both the household and national levels and promised to make life safe for Corentyne fishermen.  He assured the fishermen that an APNU administration would guarantee their safety and ensure that, as Guyanese citizens, their livelihood will be protected and they will be allowed to go about their business without fear of attack from pirates.