Tourism group meets Hoyte


Guyana Chronicle
April 21, 2000


EXECUTIVE members of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), have met Leader of the Opposition, Mr Desmond Hoyte, as part of the group's 10-point plan for the future development of tourism in Guyana.

President of THAG, Mr Gerry Gouveia said the discussions Wednesday were fruitful.

He said Hoyte supports the development and promotion of tourism in Guyana as one of the vehicles for economic prosperity.

Gouveia said they also discussed the upcoming general election and some members expressed their concern or worry.

Hoyte made it clear that his People's National Congress (PNC) was interested in free and fair elections and assured that the party will honour the elections, he said.

The Leader of the Opposition also gave the commitment that if the PNC does not win the elections, it "has absolutely no intention to go on the streets", he reported.

According to Gouveia, Hoyte said too that he is concerned and interested in working with the government in moving Guyana, but in an inclusive system and that whichever government is in power, it should manage the country for all and not some of the people.

The THAG President said he views the statement by Hoyte as very encouraging for Guyana, adding that a stable political climate is necessary to attract tourists here.

THAG's 10-point plan includes dialogue with political leaders, mayors of the towns and the Mayor of the City of Georgetown.

Gouveia said he intends during his meeting with the politicians to urge all not to make any remarks that could incite anger in each other, and deal only with issues of a mature country.

He expressed optimism that as long as the dialogue continues between the government and the other political parties, the country will enter into a stable climate in and even after the general elections.