Govt supports inaugural ‘Guyana Carnival’ -approval given for regulatory bodies to provide support

 

DPI, Guyana, Sunday, May 13, 2018

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, on Friday, May 11, clarified the Government’s position on the inaugural ‘Guyana Carnival’; following growing concerns about the administration’s stance on the privately sponsored and organised event.

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon.

“This matter was dealt with at cabinet on Tuesday and cabinet gave its approval for the elements of the state to provide the necessary support for the organisers of this event, that is, the police and any other regulatory authorities of the state”, Minister Harmon said at a post-cabinet press briefing.

Mirroring the festivities of traditional Carnivals regionally, Guyana will host its inaugural ‘Guyana Carnival’ in May this year. According to the organisers, this idea was birthed during Guyana’s 50th ‘Jubilee’ Independence celebration when thousands of visitors participated.

Minister Harmon noted that the Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin had given his full support to the event which should have indicated that the Government was on board.

“[We were awaiting] permission to be given by police for these events and Cabinet clarified that the police were to work with the organisers to ensure that the event is safe. There is a clear understanding that the environment is important [and] that cleanliness and orderliness must be maintained. I believe those were the guidelines which cabinet gave considering its approval of the event”, he added.

According to the State Minister, Guyana’s development is twofold, “The Government must work alongside the private sector to ensure smoother, more inclusive development for all Guyanese.”

He added, “It’s an important time in the history of this country and we want to say that Government will support the private initiatives of citizens once they do not affect security and orderliness.”

Minister Harmon extended his best wishes to the persons coming to Guyana for the event as well as the organisers.

Guyana Carnival 2018, is first of its kind experience to Guyana. It is slated for May 18 to 27, 2018. This 10-day event is expected to serve as a major economic boost to several industries.

Carnival across the Caribbean is a well-known cultural phenomenon known for its vivid colours, elaborate costumes, festivities, tourism and entertainment. These local events are expected to be similar.

 

By: Nateshia Isaacs

Image courtesy of Keno George

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