ATAC represents all Amerindian communities (Macushi and Patamona) in Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni).

A joint statement said the agreement was reached during a closed door meeting President Bharrat Jagdeo had with the Touchaus on Thursday last at the Office of the President. The sides discussed issues on the proposed Kaieteur National Park expansion.

There has been much concern in the Amerindian community regarding the traditional use of the land and how the extension may affect them, resulting in the Touchaus seeking redress through the Courts to block the initiative.

And at one of his recent post-Cabinet news conferences, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, told reporters that the concerns had generated the need for the discussion.

According to the joint statement, the Government and the Touchaus agreed in principle that :

** Amerindian rights, traditions, privileges, customs and usages are recognised and protected;

** Amerindians have meaningful participation in all processes and decision-making in any national parks or protected area involving traditional lands;

** Amerindians are given first priority for jobs and training for serving not just as cooks, wardens and rangers, but also as scientists and managers;

** Amerindians are given a fair share of all benefits from protected areas.

The ATAC, represented by 14 touchaus and vice-touchaus, has also committed to working with the Government to put these priorities into effect.

“We, the Government of Guyana and the Amerindian communities of Region Eight, believe that by working together we can resolve the problem we face and build our country”, the statement said.

There are plans to hold future discussions and consultations directly with the Amerindian communities to reach a fair and amicable outcome for all Guyanese.

The Touchaus who attended the meeting with President Jagdeo were Albertino Peters, Kuruabaru; David Moses, Itabac; Hampton King, Mountain Mountain; Sergio Fredericks, Kato; Frank Isaacs, Taruka; Laurindo Nelson, Kanapang; Paul Andrews, Waipa; Alban Williams, Kamana; Regio Abraham, Orinduik; Scipio Alphonso, Tuzeneng; Thomas Noel, Paramakatoi; Victor Pio, Kaibarupai; Terence Perreira, Kopinang and Rupert Williams, Chenapau.