NTC Conference very informative – Toshaos

DPI, GUYANA, Wednesday, August 23, 2017

The National Toshaos Council (NTC) Treasurer, Nicholas Fredericks said under this administration, the body has more control over the hosting of the conference.

Treasurer of the NTC and Toshao of Shulinab registering during the third day of the NTC Conference.

On Wednesday, the third day of the NTC Conference, Fredericks told the Department of Public Information (DPI), “Before, the NTC was manipulated as a political tool I know that, where they were not allowed to speak out and the minister is the one to control the NTC but this time we managed to break away from that control.”

Fredericks pointed out that this year, the NTC has full management of the conference “that has evolved”. “This year we’ve managed to take full control of the agenda, the planning and everything,” he explained.

Fredericks however said the NTC would like to play an even greater part in the budgeting of the annual event. “What would be important for us is to actually be part of the budgeting of this thing,” he said.

Meanwhile, Toshaos said that the information coming out of the conference this year has been very educational. “I have learned much, about things where gas and oil is concerned and some firearms amnesty,” Vice Toshao of Jawalla said.

Toshao of Shulinab, Nicholas Fredericks, pointed out a presentation on constitutional reform, by the non-governmental organization Reform, Inform, Sustain Educate (RISE), has his interest. “I think it’s something really good if we as indigenous people can contribute towards the whole development of these constitutions and bylaws. It would put us in a better position to make proper representation of indigenous peoples rights,” he said.

Other Toshaos said they are looking forward to having their issues addressed. “So far there is much that needs to be done; much negotiation needs to be done with the government, the ministers responsible for various ministries,” Toshao Earnest Thompson of Karaudarnau said.

The various ministers began meeting with the Toshaos today to address their concerns.

 

By: Tiffny Rhodius

Toshao of Karaudarnau Earnest Thompson.

 

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