Georgetown : The National Assembly after being dissolved into the Committee of Supply approved the sum of $3.75 B for both capital and current estimates for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign policy, a key component of the ministry was allocated $1.4B for its advancement.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, questioned by Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira about the reduction in the number of contract workers, explained that the reduction pertains to the administrative section of the ministry.
Further grilled by Teixeira, Minister Greenidge indicated that the increase in figures for local travel and subsistence covers the cost to move staff overseas and the appointments of Heads of Missions. He added that the allocation of $200M was determined exclusively by the cost of retaining international and local lawyers and advisors to deal with the Venezuela border controversy.
Further responding to clarify an $84M allocation, he indicated that the provision will be utilised to transport visiting delegations as it is expected that the number of such will be increased due to CARICOM related activities, and the hosting of the 50th Independence activities.
It was explained that the increase in contributions to the United Nations was as a result of the increases Guyana would have experienced in its Gross Domestic Product.
The $1.4B which was approved for foreign policy advancement also caters for the execution of two projects, one valued at $56M to construct a building to house the protocol and consular affairs department. Additionally $15M will be spent to purchase furniture and equipment to improve the Ministry’s head office and the VIP Lounge at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
Defending the capital allocation of $56M, Minister Greenidge indicated that the Ramphal House will be replaced as the current structure does not facilitate upgrades to make it flood prone.
Asked to give a breakdown of how the $15M will be utilised, the Minister indicated that $10M will be spent on the VIP Lounge whilst the remainder will be spent on the head office.
The Development of Guyana’s foreign policy will ensure effective and efficient coordination and management of human, financial and physical resources necessary for the successful administration of its policy.
Investments will go towards ensuring quality advice and assistance is given for the implementation of foreign policies and directives.
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