Among those who participated in what the sources described as a "very secretive meeting", were former Advisor to ex-President Mr. Desmond Hoyte, Mr. David Granger, Dr. Clive Thomas of the Working People's Alliance and Editor-in-Chief of the Stabroek News, Mr. David de Caires.

It was not clear what the agenda of the meeting was and why it was held at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel.

The sources said the meeting might have addressed the political situation in Guyana, the proposals being put forward by the Guyana Bar Association, the Private Sector Commission and the Trades Union Congress for the joint consultation of political parties and even exploring ways for some individuals to enter Government though the back door.

Meanwhile, a political observer has expressed concern about the key role being played by former PNC Deputy Prime Minister and Advisor to Congress Place, Mr. Haslyn Parris, in crafting positions and discussion papers for the effort by the `social partners' to restore the dialogue between the Government and the Opposition.

"If this is true, the entire effort could be further compromised by Mr. Parris given his position in the PNC/R," he said.