MEMBERS of the National Assembly on Thursday witnessed the presentation of a Commonwealth Tree planted in observance of Commonwealth Day 2013 in the compound of Public Buildings.

The tree was unveiled by Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland.
Five years ago, former Speaker of the House, Raphael Trotman and Dr Vindhya Persaud, along with the Clerk of the National Assembly and the staff of Parliament, gathered to plant an almond tree sapling.
Trotman in brief remarks thanked the Speaker and his staff not only for ensuring that the tree blossomed, but by protecting it with an ornate fence. A plaque was also placed near the tree

“What you see today symbolises the strength of this tree and the strength of the Commonwealth of 53 nations and is testimony to Guyana’s long-standing and long commitment, long into the future to the Commonwealth and its ongoing successes,” said Trotman.
The former Speaker, now Minister of Natural Resources, said he is humbled that a “little project” which was started five years ago has developed. “Much work has been done to reinforce the symbolism it stood for five years ago,” he added.
Similarly, Dr Persaud said trees are very important and noted that once there is a stable root, then the possibilities are endless.

“When we plant a tree in the precincts of Parliament and when associated with the Commonwealth, I think it stands for all of us as parliamentarians to remind us that we must always preserve democracy, fight for the rights of people, stand up against injustice and be fair in our treatment and honourable in our dealings in Parliament and out of Parliament.”

The parliamentarian reminded the House that the Commonwealth remains a very important institution of which Guyana is a member and noted Guyana’s long history there.
“I am happy to see the tree has blossomed – it means with constant nurturing of everything that is positive for this country,[And] good for the people of Guyana— I think we can see a strong tree in the future,” she said, while calling for collectivity.
“I do believe the people of Guyana expect us to plant roots that will flower and produce all good things for them,” Dr Persaud added.

Meanwhile, Dr Scotland announced that additional work would be done in the area surrounding the tree. Among the new additions to come, is the installation of two LED lights. That aside, it was suggested by parliamentarian Harry Gill that on Commonwealth Day, the flags of each nation be placed around the tree.