Kaieteur News Sensationalising Stories

It is with strong consternation that Ministry of Amerindian refutes an article that was printed in the Kaieteur News on July 29, 2010 “Amerindian refused entry into hostel- claims victimization.” Kaieteur News daringly printed this article without any comments from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and without an investigation to ascertain what the issue was. Instead of informing the nation of the truth, Kaieteur News, as is customary to print half-truths and deceptive articles, reverted to sensationalism.

The article claims that Gilbert Thomas, a fifty-five year old man from Matthew’s Ridge, is alleging that he was not accepted at the Hostel because of the assertive stand he took months ago in revealing the advantage that is being taken on the occupants of the Hostel.

The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs does not, and by any means indulges in victimization and discrimination of any person and more particularly Amerindians, in spite of their beliefs, religion, political association or creed. Any Amerindian who approaches the Ministry for assistance is paid due attention, since the Ministry has a mandate to protect and promote the social and economic welfare of Amerindians in a culturally compatible manner.

It was further stated that the Newspaper tried to make contact with the Ministry but no one was available. It is not the fault of the Ministry if the relevant authorities are unavailable at the moment because of other important functions. However, the Ministry did make contact with the Editor-in-Chief of the Newspapers after to give a comment, but was told otherwise. This is a clear indication of the Newspaper attempt to smear the name of the Ministry and the Hostel and once again reflects the agenda of Kaieteur News.

The Hostel is guided by a Hostel Management Plan which outlines the operations of the Institution. A person is refused entry to the in-patient facility based on a history of misconduct and inappropriate behaviour, without efforts to reform or adjust, is then deemed unfit and threatening to other patients at the Institution.
The said individual has a track record of misconduct and inappropriate behaviour of which he was warned on several occasions. Nevertheless, he along with his immediate and extended families was accommodated at the Hostel during the months of April, June and July where they were assisted with receiving medical attention.
It is therefore highly irresponsible and irreprehensible for Kaieteur News to publish such an article without clarity from the appropriate personnel on the matter in question.