Dear Editor,
The recent response of the Trinidad and Tobago state and political directorate to the horrendous killings of peaceful, unarmed citizens at Bartica is what one would expect from a Caricom member state that is a signatory to COHSOD Agreements as well as the Regional Strategic Security Plan (RSSP).
President Jagdeo’s advisers (he was abroad at the time of the Bartica massacre) must have briefed the authorities in the most objective way, otherwise even an appeal for assistance would have required some kind of special meeting (that would address a comprehensive ministerial or ambassadorial report). Minister Rohee’s experience at these levels has proven decisive.
The strategy of the joint services should be enhanced, however, it must be recognised that helicopters utilise considerable quantities of aviation fuel (Avgas). Operat-ional procedure therefore must be coordinated with a high degree of technical competence.
The question of a mobile platform base such as that availed for frigates or large corvettes should also not be lost on the joint services. Mobility and safety should be a twin priority if the airborne equipment is to carry a decisive advantage or impact.
Some years ago ranks of the army were trained as parachutists. As a matter of procedure there should be the involvement of all those in the army who have had continuous training. Guyana is both coastal and hinterland and the domestic terrorists have demonstrated their familiarity with various locations.
The joint services must improve on that level in order to overwhelm the murderous criminals. Guyana deserves a climate of peace.
Yours faithfully,
Eddi Rodney
