— Trotman tells Region Six Independence celebration

GUYANA’S people and their culture are the greatest assets of the nation, says Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, as he joined Region Six in celebrating the country’s

51st Independence anniversary on Thursday.

“Tonight (Thursday) cultural performances must not only cause us to applaud the dances and stomp our feet at the music played, but they must attain deep within our psyche as we ponder the question:  What is Guyana? Who am I as a Guyanese and what is my contribution to building the State that we know as Guyana and how can I work with others in doing so?” Trotman told the gathering at the celebration themed: “Unity in diversity, in a Green Economy”.

He said there will be difficult times in achieving the government’s agenda for a good life for all Guyanese, and that will require difficult and necessary decisions.

Minister Trotman also told the residents that their cooperation with the government will help guarantee the development of their community, especially with the use of cohesion in thought and action.

It was highlighted that Independence is a display of memories from great leaders such as the late Presidents Cheddi Jagan, and Forbes Burnham, who fought for the freedom of the country and its people.

Regional Chairman, David Armogan, said there have been many developments within the region that are beneficial to residents, and expressed hope that there would be continued developments, especially since there is a struggle in regaining the sugar industry’s viability in the region.

The regional chairman noted that provision must be made in providing employment to those who were involved in the sugar industry.

Mayor of New Amsterdam, Kurk Wynter was among other government officials who attended the flag-raising ceremony.

The other administrative regions also celebrated the country’s Independence on Thursday evening, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.