The Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) has noted with some satisfaction the recent announcement by the Minister of Home Affairs, in early January, of a five-year Public Safety and Security Reform Strategy. It is long overdue, according to a release from the entity.“We were disappointed when the UK government’s Security Sector Reform Programme was not implemented and look forward to the effective implementation of the Programme announced by the Minister,” the statement noted.“There is no greater barrier to the successful development of the tourism industry than an international perception of our country as crime-ridden and a dangerous place to visit. It matters not how attractive our tourism product is, the first requirement of any potential tourist is to know and believe that the country he or she plans to visit is relatively safe from crime. It is more often than not the first question asked by a potential visitor,China Jerseys For Sale,” said Kit Nascimento, spokesperson for the body.While the Reform Programme announced by the Minister provides for civilian oversight in its administration and implementation, it would have been preferable that the private sector had been afforded the opportunity of much greater consultation prior to its introduction as a “fait accompli”, he added.“We note, also, that the Programme is intended to benefit from “high level civilian professionals in non-line positions” provided by a United Kingdom consultancy during its implementation. The Minister has also said that the consultancy may include the involvement of foreign police officers, though, again,NFL Jerseys Supply, not with in-line authority and we presume, therefore,Wholesale Jerseys China, not having a disciplinary function.”“It remains to be seen how effective this arrangement will be in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the force.”The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has already welcomed the implementation of this Programme and has urged public attention and support.Importantly, the PSC has pointed out that the reorganization and restructuring of the Police Force,Wholesale China Jerseys, renamed now the Police Service,wholesale nfl jerseys, will ultimately depend on the quality of its personnel and the recruitment of new persons and that it is, therefore, essential that the level of remuneration be significantly increased if this is to be improved.“It is also our view that,Cheap NFL jerseys China, unless the police are given the tools with which to do their job, the restructuring of the Service will remain compromised. We refer in particular to the fact that Guyana’s major tourism destinations are located in remote hinterland areas such as the Rupununi, and the riverain areas surrounding Bartica. These areas are increasingly targeted by criminals.”At present, the Police Service has neither the marine nor aviation capabilities necessary and essential to effectively police these areas.“We, therefore, urge that the government commit to the level of funding essential to provide these services.”