By Josiah Williams
The Sea and River Defence Bill was read for a second time in the National Assembly today, setting the stage for an in-depth debate among legislators.
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, emphasized that the bill aims to enhance Guyana’s disaster risk management and flood-resilience capacity.
In his contribution to the debate, Minister Edghill highlighted the bill’s significance in modernizing the sector’s legislation and providing comprehensive protection for Guyana’s territory against sea encroachments.
He stressed that the new bill is essential for all Guyanese, particularly those involved in agriculture and the burgeoning oil and gas sector, ensuring that developments adhere to legal standards.
“It is a necessity for all the people of Guyana, whether on the coast, those involved in agriculture, and to ensure that while we develop the oil and gas sector, shore bases and other facilities that things are done in keeping with the law.”
The proposed legislation will repeal and replace existing laws related to sea and river defence. It includes provisions for constructing and maintaining sea and river defences, as well as natural defences like mangroves.
Additionally, the bill will enhance the mandate and powers of the Sea and River Defence Board and increase penalties for breaches.
Minister Edghill pointed out Guyana’s vulnerability to floods, underscoring the need for robust flood management plans that the new bill will facilitate.
He noted that the bill would introduce a system for flood management planning, ensuring proper identification, design, and maintenance of flood defences, while also promoting public participation and consultation.
“It will introduce a system of flood management planning to ensure flood defences are properly identified, designed, and maintained while at the same time enhancing public participation and consultation.”
The minister highlighted that the current legislation dates back to 1883 and, despite multiple updates, remains outdated compared to international sustainable development standards.
The new bill seeks to bring Guyana’s sea and river defence strategies in line with modern requirements, ensuring better protection and management for the future.