The Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) yesterday issued a statement in which it said it notes with concern the opposition’s non-support for the Hydro-Electric Power (Amendment) Bill.
On Thursday, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) used their one-seat majority to vote down the Hydro-Electric Power (Amendment) Bill.
The CIOG statment said that as an organization whose aim is to promote development in all its facets and to reduce poverty, the non-supporting of the Hydro-Electric Power bill can have far reaching negative effects on Guyana’s development.
It said that currently, Guyana’s fuel bill is probably the highest in the Caribbean and the Hydro Power project would see a drastic reduction in electricity cost, thereby enhancing the nation’s competiveness.
"We have seen how robust the economy has performed despite the exorbitant cost of fuel, imagine what could be, should this cost become negligible. CIOG believes that with a fuel bill reduction, the nation’s engine of growth, the private sector will be better equipped to compete nationally and internationally and this will lead to an overall level of development for all Guyanese" the CIOG said.
It called on our leaders to exercise maturity and responsibility in an enlightened, cooperative and trusting manner whilst taking the interest of all Guyanese, particularly the working class, the poor and the disadvantaged with great interest.
