DIRECTOR of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Mr. Indranauth Haralsingh, has noted that the GTA’s Christmas plans are receiving tremendous support from the Private Sector Commission (PSC). He made this disclosure in an interview with the media last Wednesday at the GTA office at the Sophia Exhibition Site in Georgetown, where he stated that, thus far, there is better participation from the private sector, especially from the beverage and telephone companies.

Various companies, such as bakeries and tour operators, are now more willing to partner with the GTA in an effort to improve this Christmas, he said.

Singh noted that partnering with the GTA brings certain benefits, such as credit labels on the products when the visitors purchase them. This is done so tourists recognise where they got the items from, and if they are pleased with the products, they will obviously go back for more.

He highlighted that active participation of various private sector agencies was forthcoming for the recent Christmas Tree Light-up activities; and there was support for every activity, from the lighting-up itself to the sale of drinks and food for the persons who attended, and even those who helped to sponsor the events.
This he described as being good private/ public sector partnership.

Singh also acknowledged the participation of Mr. Ray Rahaman, who has been on board and using his time and energy along with his yard and workers to organise his version of the Christmas Tree Light-up at his residence.

He added that the light-up was a good demonstration of a good public/private sector partnership wherein Mr. Rahaman, being a private sector member, did this to beautify not just his place of abode, but also the entire Rahaman’s Park area.

Singh said that events and actions like those done by private sector members strongly support the ‘Rediscover Home’ campaign, as they deliver a neighbourly value in partnership with almost every project the GTA has launched thus far.

He also said that students from the University of Guyana collaborated with the GTA in helping to accomplish its works for the season.
 The director also acknowledged that Penta and Harris paints have also come on board with the city beautification effort, and have been donating paints in this regard.

He said GTA is not afraid to ask for further involvement from the Private Sector, as that section of the Guyanese populace has always provided excellent partnership, support, sponsorship, and cooperation, which has been increasing yearly.

Singh also highlighted the issue of persons soliciting tourists, describing the act as very dishonest and not reflect well on the hospitality of Guyana.
He encouraged street vendors, taxi and minibus drivers to make sure they are honest to everyone, and not only to Guyanese. He said that, as citizens of the country, one should take pride in being a good tourism ambassador for the ‘Destination Guyana’ project.

He said if we had been in the visitor’s position, we would not have liked to have such an experience.
In closing, he noted that Christmas is a season for giving and sharing, and it is sad if persons choose to solicit innocent visitors.
He said he would not want to encourage anyone to do that.

He also highlighted the importance of honesty, hospitality, and being friendly and welcoming, as these are the qualities expected from every Guyanese.

He said it is one’s duty to be a good tourism ambassador and to help the visitors with directions or anything they may need; and more importantly, charging correct rates and fares.