Here’s what they are saying
The Guyana/Suriname boundary dispute
Guyana Chronicle
February 28, 2004
On February 25, President Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed that the Government of Guyana has formally sought the intervention of the United Nations Law of the Sea Tribunal in an effort to accelerate the resolutions of the maritime boundary dispute with Suriname.
For years the Government of Guyana has pursued every avenue of discussion and negotiation, dating back to 1989, bilaterally and in the Councils of CARICOM, to resolve the matter and allow offshore mineral exploration to take place on a basis beneficial to both countries.
However, efforts have failed.
“Now, having exhausted all other peaceful means of settling this dispute with Suriname, and conscious of the urgency of doing so in the interest of the people of both countries, Guyana has invoked these procedures,” said President Bharrat Jagdeo.
The Government Information Agency took to the streets to solicit comments on the President’s move.
Here is what persons said:
Winston Warner: I think it was the right procedure, because it is the best way to resolve the matter that is to go to the International Court. I saw no alternative move and I think President Jagdeo made a good move.
Diane Chapman: I think it was a good move because we need to settle that matter before it gets out of hand. It has been pending quite a while and I hope that the decision made is in our favour.
Kelvin McKenzie: It was a very good move by our President and it should have been done a long time ago. Because it is disgusting to see Suriname fighting us for what is rightfully ours. President Jagdeo made a positive step about the issue.
Rondel Bess: It is about time, because it was a pressing issue and I think by taking to the International Court, the decision made will be final. We will finally know once and for all who really owns the Corentyne River. After all, the Court’s decision is final.
Leon France: President Bharrat Jagdeo made a good move, he was thinking of the prosperity of the country. If we get the Corentyne River, maybe CGX would return and that could mean oil for us. That means the cost of living would be easier because more money would be around.
Naresh: It is a good thing that the President has gone to the International Court. We will be able to settle the matter of the Corentyne River once and for all. I hope CGX can come back to explore for oil, which would mean more money for the Government and better living conditions for Guyanese.
Odwin Andrews: It was a good choice the Government made. We are thinking about job opportunities. If CGX should come back, people will get work. I think President Bharrat Jagdeo made a very good move.
Beena Bacchus: Going to the International Court to clear up the dispute was the best move President Jagdeo ever made.
Ursha Ramsimone: I think it was a good move because we have to fight for what belongs to us.
Hazel Pile: I feel if it is our land we have to fight for it. You do not give up things so easily. It is years this thing has been going on. This shows that the Government is serious and they are ready to put an end to the dispute.