The Immigration Department says it has added more officers to its staff at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) to ensure smooth and timely processing of passengers during the Christmas season.

Deputy Chief Immigration Officer George Vyphuis said additional personnel have been stationed at the airport to boost the current staff complement, a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release said. “On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays which are busy days, we will be sending staff to relieve the outgoing staff one hour earlier than regular time,” Vyphuis said, adding that on Sundays, which sees a larger number of passengers, extra staff will be on duty.

According to GINA the Department said it processed 9,725 passengers through the CJIA from mid-October to December 1. “We are committed to ensuring that visitors are welcomed and treated well when they arrive in Guyana,” Vyphuis said. He also said that so far he is satisfied with his officers’ work and is very confident of their abilities.