Not enough time to make changes to the conference programme ROC wanted

Dear Editor,

Thanks for your recent article on Sunday July 29, titled ‘Three organisations holding youth conference promoting violence-free environment.’ CADVA appreciates all your efforts in assisting us in reaching out to various sectors of our community and partnering with others in this process of change.

We are sad to see that ROC made a decision to withdraw from the conference. At this late stage of planning, members of our team are already on the ground in Guyana, and others are travelling over the next few days. Unfortunately, owing to the planned event, we were unable to meet the needs of ROC as it relates to request for extended time as well as independent presentations. If the programme had allowed for this, we would have certainly fulfilled the request. We respect ROC’s decision and wish them well in all efforts towards this and any other causes.

Marketing, press and other materials were pre-printed, and as time permits we are in the process of modifying those materials. We are hoping to make full modification withdrawing ROC from any advertised materials, however, we cannot assure the removal of ROC from all pre-printed materials given the constraints of time.

Again, we wish ROC well in all their efforts; unfortunately we were unable to reach a mutual partnership at this late stage of planning and accommodate changes to the programme agenda. CADVA strives to give all participants equal time and respect for their work and effort. We also, apologize for any misstatements regarding ROC’s foundation that were obtained from the public domain.

We look forward to seeing you at the event and more so, looking forward to simply focusing on the needs of the young audience.

We are still extending an invitation to ROC as attendees to the event. This is a catered event as lunch is being provided to youths who have to RSVP by a certain time. CADVA will make an exception and extend a late invitation to the youths of ROC if they wish to attend.

Yours faithfully,
Sukree Boodram
President
CADVA Inc