Dear Editor,
I HUMBLY crave your permission to have some space in your newspaper as I firmly believe that the efforts of Region Eight Regional Executive Officer (REO), Rafael Downes, need the highest commendation.
I sought to highlight the numerous good that he continues to do in what many have regarded as the most challenging administrative region in Guyana. Downes, while evidently having some shortcomings, continues to do a splendid job at executing his mandate as the accounting officer for the people of Region Eight, thus earning significant admiration and best wishes.

The REO continues to keep abreast with the many challenges facing residents within his region and has implemented a number of aggressive measures to confront these. His continued efforts in implementing a number of creative and innovative changes to the region will certainly bring about ease with his efforts in seeking to ensure that residents in both subsections one and two are less adversely affected by the increased challenges and difficulties over the past few years.

Despite Region Eight being a gold and diamond-mining community, it is evident that with the drop of gold and diamond prices and the fact that there continues to be a rise in unemployment, there is an urgent need for more projects and programmes geared particularly a bringing about economic relief.
As such, the economic situations of many are vulnerable, thus resulting in increased social ills and challenges. Therefore, the efforts by REO Downes should be highly commended as he has and continues to do a remarkable job.

While the region’s main source of economic development comes from gold and diamonds, it’s important to note that they are highly susceptible to adverse weather conditions and fluctuations in prices. Therefore, increases in prices for these will tend to lead to increased earnings, aided by investments made by other individuals in a number of areas.
As such, with a number of new innovative measures being implemented by the REO, it’s evident that the residents of Region Eight will certainly see an economic boost as his continued efforts should and is being highly praised for his tireless contributions. Therefore, the Minister of Communities, the Hon Ronald Bulkan, along with his Permanent Secretary Emil Mc Garrel, should also take hats off for ensuring the appointment of Rafael Downes. It’s my sincere wish that the ministry will recognise his efforts while using it as a model, so that other regions can emulate his brave and hard-working efforts.

Regards
Marilyn De Costa