If a new Guyana is to emerge with the coming of oil, then the nation must rise above the polarization of wealth as well as the proverbial “crab in a barrel” syndrome. This was the message Head of the Energy Department, Dr. Mark Bynoe alluded to when he delivered his featured address at the recently held ‘Guyana’s Future in oil and gas’ forum at the National Cultural Centre.
There, Dr. Bynoe said that distributing the proceeds from the oil largesse cannot be done based on the colour of one’s skin, the texture of one’s hair or political affiliation. He categorically stated that it must be distributed based on the fact that “we are all Guyanese.”
The Energy Department Head asserted that the oil and gas wealth will not help anyone as well if someone turns a blind eye when something goes wrong because this is “my boy/girl” or “they are like me.” The official said that doing what is right must become the hallmark of Guyana’s oil sector.
It was on this note that the official pledged that the Department of Energy will continue to work with all serious-minded and committed partners in the industry, regulatory authorities and national and regional governments, to ensure the successful, efficient and effective long-term development of Guyana’s oil and gas resources for all Guyanese.
Dr. Bynoe said, “…We are on a journey, but a journey neither for the faint-hearted, nor the sluggard, but one for aggressive, industrious and innovative minds. In other words, you cannot expect to be on par with your compatriots, to be on par with your colleagues if you are not willing to put in the effort. We have heard about naturally gifted athletes, naturally gifted students. What no one says to you is that they often work harder than the average to realize their potential. What you put in is what you will get out.”
Furthermore, the Director of the Energy Department said that he is keen to ensure that the systems of transparency and good governance remain wholesome for all to have an equal opportunity to participate.
