Dear Editor,
Following the passing of the Forest Bill in Parliament recently, I was particularly pleased at the comments made by the opposition members, Mr Khemraj Ramjattan and Mr Lance Carberry pertaining to the presentations by Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud and his efforts to facilitate the passing of the bill.

The comments made by the two opposition members were commendable for acknowledging the efforts of the Minister to bring to conclusion a bill that has been pending for the past ten years.

As explained by the various members of parliament the bill will make provisions for more monitoring and regulations to ensure the sustainability of our forestry resources.

It was also pleasing to know that the Forest Bill is also in harmony with other legislation, such as the Environmental Protection Act and in particular, the Amerindian Act, where the rights and privileges of the Amerindians are safeguarded. This is very important to protect the rights of those who use the forest as a way of life.

The recognition given to Minister Persaud by the opposition members for his efforts shows the kind of constructive debate and maturity that needs to be displayed by all Members of Parliament to move Guyana forward. Kudos were quiet rightly given to the Minister for his efforts.
Yours faithfully,
Rajpat Singh