Dear Editor,

On November 26, 2008, Stabroek News published an article entitled ‘Bosai and govt sign pact for alumina plant.’  I would like to congratulate the Government of Guyana for securing this US$1B project.  But, why did the government only negotiate for 11%? Isn’t our bauxite industry worth more than that?  And why was an agreement signed without a complete feasibility study in the first place.  This deal should have gone through a bidding process especially since the Brazilians are willing to invest $3B in our bauxite industry.

However, it should be clear to all involved in this project, that the people of Region 10 are very concerned that none of our elected officials was present at the signing of and negotiations for this project to ensure that our interest is secure − in particular relating to the issue of health.  To date no one from the government or from Bosai has responded positively to the dust nuisance and the health related illness it creates in Linden, so how can we trust the government to negotiate in our best interest without the presence of the Leader of the Opposition or our local elected officials?

The people of Region 10 are also very concerned about the government and Bosai springing decisions on us related to the feasibility of this project which do not bind Bosai to operate as a good cooperate citizen and uphold high ethical standards as these relate to workers and the town in which they operate.  The people of Region 10, especially in Linden, demand to be consulted on every aspect of this project, particularly anything that would adversely impact our lives.  We also demand a copy of the agreement signed, and the complete feasibility study to be placed in the hands of councillors of the Regional Democratic Council of Region 10.

Yours faithfully,
Dexton Copeland
Councillor, Regional Democratic Council
Region 10