PRESS RELEASE

REGION 8 AMERINDIAN CAPTAINS CALL FOR PARTICIPATION IN DRAFTING FORESTRY LEGISLATION

The Area Council of Region 8, an independent body established by Amerindian communities to look at problems in the Region, has issued a statement demanding that Amerindian Rights are recognised and protected under the Guyana Forestry Commission support project funded by the British.

The Area Council express deep concern that they were not consulted. Most of the Captains were not aware that such a project was well under way without informing, consulting and ensuring full participation of Amerindians. More worrying to the Council is the fact that this project will impact on the lives of all Amerindians who are the inhabitants and historical protectors of the forests of Guyana. This unilateral decision to exclude Amerindians from decisions that will affect them is a glaring example of the continued lack of recognition and respect for Amerindians by the Government of Guyana. The Council said, "we insist that our rights be recognised and protected in this project."

The Amerindian Peoples Association fully supports the position of the Area Council of Region 8.

The Executive Committee
Amerindian Peoples Association
February 25, 2000