By Frederick Halley
WHILE Guyanese at home were celebrating their country’s 48th republic anniversary in grand style on Friday, an atmosphere of serenity pervaded Guyana’s Consulate in Toronto, Canada, as their counterparts joined in the historic observance during an eventful evening.
Outgoing Consul-General (acting) Candida Daniels, in her featured address, urged invitees who included several members of the Caribbean diplomatic corps and prominent Guyanese residing in Toronto to reflect on Guyana’s growth as a nation.

Daniels called on Guyanese living in the diaspora to resolve to re-dedicate their energies “to continue to support the course that has been charted for the further development of our beloved homeland in the spirit of our national Motto: One People, One Nation, One Destiny.”

According to Daniels, “occasions such as this, provide us with the opportunity to not only celebrate, but reflect on the history of our beloved country, Guyana, that first led to the attainment of independence in 1966 and then the declaration of republican status on February 23, 1970. Becoming a republic was another auspicious occasion in the history of a young, independent Guyana, as it signified the severing of our final official link with colonial rule.”

The acting consul-general, who departs Toronto in June, commended the members of the large Guyanese diaspora in Toronto for maintaining ties to their homeland, as well as the commitment of the many diaspora groups and organisations for contributing and assisting to the further development of Guyana.

“Please be assured that the Government of Guyana is appreciative of all your efforts and is actively looking at ways in which engagement with the diaspora can be further enhanced.”

Daniels also took the opportunity to formally introduce An Yin Choo as the new consul-general in Toronto, while expressing her deep appreciation for all the support given her during her tenure as acting consul-general.

“I ask that you give the new consul-general the same level of support. Please join me in welcoming our new consul-general!” she said.
In brief remarks, Choo said she’s excited to be in Toronto and looks forward to her first stint in North America.

Daniels thanked those present for joining in the National Day reception in observance of the 48th Republic Anniversary of Guyana.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Guyana; as well as the staff of the Consulate General of Guyana here in Toronto, I wish to extend warm greetings to all Guyanese and well-wishers gathered here, as we celebrate Guyana’s attainment of republican status.”

The evening’s occasion, which was chaired by long-serving consular employee Clyde Gulliver, saw renditions of Guyana and Canada’s national anthems by president of the Guyana Ex-police Association John O’Dell.