Georgetown, GINA, January 18, 2004
Government is working to promote inter-religious unity and to this end several initiatives are being developed.
The Head of State President Bharrat Jagdeo made this announcement today at an inter-religious celebration of peace, love and goodwill at the Botanical Gardens.
President Jagdeo, who was scheduled to address the formal aspect of the event this afternoon, was unable to do so. Instead he attended earlier when he interacted with those in attendance. The President also held discussions with the members of the Inter-Religious Organization of Guyana (IROG), which sponsored the event.
In delivering remarks to the gathering, President Jagdeo congratulated the IROG for the “tremendous efforts poured into making the event materialize.”
Hailing the work of the organization, President Jagdeo noted that in a multi-religious society such as Guyana’s, the IROG’s work is invaluable. He noted that the society needs organizations that can “teach and practice not only tolerance, but also good, for the development of people and morals of young people.” President Jagdeo also commended the efforts to teach diversity, as Guyanese need that for its six races to work together.
“We believe that this is the way forward for Guyana,” the President said, adding that this should be so not only at the religious level, but also among political leaders and all Guyanese.
He cautioned the gathering not to think that inter-religious interactions, like all interactions, are without hurdles. Differences will be encountered. However, he said, it is how the differences are dealt with that is important.
He also cautioned that in dealing with difficulties, hatred and division must never be created, but rather constructive mechanism of resolution.
Commenting on his Government’s effort to promote inter-religious cooperation, the Head of State outlined initiatives that are being worked upon to see greater collaboration.
The Head of State noted that Government is moving to establish an All Faith Television Station this year. The crowd greeted this with loud applause.
“Government would not only provide the spectrum and the license at no cost, but the Government of Guyana will set aside some money for the establishment of the Television Station,” the President said.
The Station will be managed by the IROG and the President expressed confidence that the organization will make a difference.
Another initiative the President announced is the introduction of a character building and moral education programme into the school’s curriculum.
“You (the IROG) can look forward to our support. You have done a good work not only for your constituent members, but the whole country,” President Jagdeo commended.
He called on the IROG to work with the Administration in developing the programme.
He also noted that the establishment of the Ethnic Relations Commission in May 2003, was a major move in promoting harmonious race relations in Guyana. Persons who feel that they have been discriminated against based on their ethnicity can file complaints to this independent body that includes three religious members.
The Head of State reiterated his Administration’s support for the Ethic Relations Commission.
At the formal programme, President Jagdeo was represented by Minister of Labour, who is also a Minister of Religion Dr. Dale Bisnauth.
The celebration took the form of a Family Fun Day during the early hours and saw families from various communities countrywide. The four religious groups that participated are Christian, Hindu, Muslim and Bahai.