TWO prominent figures in the forestry sector have thrown their unequivocal support behind President Dr. Irfaan Ali for a second term in office, lauding the PPP/C administration’s commitment to transforming an industry mired in decline under the previous government.

Lynette Benn, interim Chairperson of the Linden Agriculture & Forest Producers Co-op Society cited the significant investments made in the forestry sector since the party took office in August 2020.

“Under the previous administration, the forestry sector was in decline due to the poor policies that were introduced to this sector. Community logging associations were experiencing difficulties in accessing markets for their forest produce, which forced many small loggers on the breadline,” her statement read.

In the last five years, the forestry sector has seen “tremendous growth due to the direct interventions made by President Ali,” she added.

Benn said that several initiatives rolled out by the government have positively impacted the forestry sector.

Benn further noted that these initiatives were designed to guarantee that community associations dependent on logging were able to become financially stable and stimulate local economies.

“President Ali’s endorsement for a second term is significantly influenced by his administration’s proactive approach to the forestry sector. These initiatives foster economic development and community engagement and have created a pathway towards a brighter future for the forestry sector. I also encourage other small loggers in the forestry sector, to support President Ali as we work together to ensure a viable sector,” she said.

Echoing similar sentiments was Martin Klautky, Managing Director of Mariabo Investments Inc. Guyana, a fourth-generation logger whose family has been involved in the industry for nearly a century.

He said the present Mabura road utilised many of their logging trails for its development, and they continue to assist travellers daily as they pass through their village, a tradition the family has kept.

“In the time since our village’s inception, the PPP government has made significant investments here. We have a school, health centre, recreational facilities, equipment, and more job opportunities. There is no doubt in my mind that they care about our hinterland people,” he said.

Even at this time, there are more projects being undertaken in the village, due maintenance on buildings and the construction of more facilities, the prominent figure said.

“This is the definition of progress. This is what the people need,” he said.

While noting that the industry faced many struggles throughout the last administration’s tenure, he said the current government has provided more opportunities in though faced with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Klautky stated: “As a logger, the PPP government has always given us a hearing on issues facing the industry and is proactive in their approach to assist in solving them, along with the GFC, they have promoted the use of lesser-known species and assisted the emergence of new marketplaces. They have assisted stakeholders in addressing national infrastructure needs and transportation issues. I believe this government’s approach is what we need.

“I hereby endorse our president, Dr. Irfaan Ali and the PPP government for another term. Let the progress continue.”