The Guyanese Newspaper 13th Edition - March 27, 2015

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Issue No: 13

March 27, 2015

RUSAL commissions $4.6B Kurubuka Mine

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Sections of the Kurubuka bauxite plant

INSIDE

Page 2 Mega developments on stream for Region Three

-as US $46.8M Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika road project launched

President Page 4 proposes “15 in 2015” programme to restore confidence in Police Force

PNC does not embrace coalition politicshistory has proven so Page 8 - AG Opposition’s Page 9 racism statements are meant to deflect attention from their tarnished track record - President Ramotar

Weekly Digest & Development Digest

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Mega developments on stream for Region Three -as US $46.8M Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika road project launched

President Donald Ramotar addressing stakeholders at the ceremony to start the Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika Road Project

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here have numerous developments already in Region Three, and there is much more to come for the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, including a call centre, opening up of agriculture lands, a new bridge across the Demerara River, and major road upgrades.

At the launch of the US $46.8M, Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and Government of Guyana- funded West Coast (Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika) Road Project on March 19, President Donald Ramotar underscored the importance of this huge venture which will not only boost the region’s development, but that of the country which has been propelled by the performance of the economy over the last several years. Guyana has experienced nine consecutive years of economic growth, in face of international and domestic challenges.

A call center is scheduled to be opened at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and with another at Enmore, ECD they are expected to provide employment for 900 people.

The launch was held at the Vreed-en-Hoop stelling and witnessed by a large gathering.

Roads There are also plans in train, the president revealed for road expansion works on the West Bank Demerara Highway, the Canal Number One and Two roads and several others in the region.

All of these projects he said, will better the lives of

the region’s residents and ultimately their communities which are becoming more organised.

President Ramotar also spoke of government’s proposals which will see a new bridge being built within the next five years over the Demerara River.

This, he said could even result in Georgetown being expanded to encompass Vreed-en-Hoop.

Mention was also made of the Amaila Falls Project which, the president indicated, was close to being finalised and construction expected to begin before the end of 2015.

As an aside, the Head of State gave his reaction to a statement made by Opposition Leader David Granger recently, in which he indicated his support for the construction of the Amaila Hydro Power Project. This change in position was a demonstration of his character, he said. He also described as “gungho”, the move to allocate various ministerial positions such “vice-presidencies” to members of the joint coalition despite not yet winning the upcoming elections. This evoked loud applause from the large gathering.

Agriculture lands Region Three is primarily agriculture in nature, and according to the president, in addition to rice, the expansion of coconut and soya production would be among crops which could be grown with the opening of the Del Conte Road.

This roadway will

result in the opening of thousands of acres of agricultural lands, in the region. All of these are part

and on budget.

“I’m tired of many of the projects not coming in on time and on budget and this is one of the focus we will have to have. We can have consultants justifying all kinds of delays. We must put in all of their contracts, penalty clauses if these things don’t come in on time and on budget. It is time that we look for quality in every area, not only in the physical infrastructure, but in the manner in which we do things as well”.

West Coast road project Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn said the project was conceptual-

the CDB. There were several factors such as the volume of vehicular traffic, accidents and communities, which were taken into consideration, the minister said.

Describing the stretch of road as the “most critical segment of the national network”, Minister Benn encouraged those responsible to ensure that those who use the thoroughfare “understand what it should be used for and how to use it”. He said he expects that “significant attention” will also be paid to enforcement with regards to usage.

Remarks were also given by Region Three Chair-

A section of the Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika Road of government’s efforts to broaden and diversify agricultural production, President Ramotar explained.

President Ramotar reiterated statements expressed by Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, and called on residents and other stakeholders to care the infrastructural works being undertaken at great expense. He also called on them to be understanding with regards to any inconvenience that may be caused by the road project, as it was “for the greater good” of the region and country as whole.

Stern warning The president further issued a stern warning to the Public Works Ministry to ensure that the contractors complete their jobs within the scheduled time frame,

ised in February of 2013 and pushed through at the insistence of the president and Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, and his Planning Unit which finalised the funding agreement with

man Julius Faerber who thanked government for the “long awaited project”, and Surrey Paving and Aggregate Company Ltd Executive Michael Archer who revealed that due dili-

gence studies and initial works were started some three months ago. Archer added that his company was proud to partner with a local company such as BK Inc., on the project, expressing confidence since similar jobs have been successfully completed in several other Caribbean nations.

On November 22, 2014, government formally signed a US$46.8 million contract with several contractors for varying aspects of the road project.

The road network upgrade will see the rehabilitation of the 30.7 kilometre road from Vreed-en-Hoop to Hydronie, catering for widening, separation lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, traffic signs, replacement of the Groenveldt Bridge, relocation of utilities and other ancillary works.

The road works component will be done by BK Inc. and Surrey Paving and Aggregate Company Ltd over a 36- month period.

One component comprises a School Road Safety Awareness Programme to be undertaken

by TRL Limited at a cost of £252,107.

Another component will be carried out by Geo Tech Vision Guyana Inc., at a cost of US$86,500 over a two- year period. This part will see road safety and drivers’ education sessions being given to residents of communities served by the network.

President Donald Ramotar and officials walking along the roadway after the ceremony to start the Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika Road Project

RUSAL commissions $4.6B Kurubuka Mine

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

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midst calls for the bauxite industry to be shut down, the PPP/C Administration refused to go that route, and today, President Donald Ramotar says the industry is standing firmly on its own feet.

These comments were made as the Head of State and other senior members of his Cabinet were at the commissioning ceremony for the Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc., Kurubuka Mining and Production Complex in Region Ten. Among those present for the opening of the Kurubuka mine, located immediately adjoining to the Berbice River, were Works Minister Robeson Benn, Minister within the Ministry of Finance Juan Edghill, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, and others.

President Ramotar said the event marks another milestone in the project of saving Guyana’s bauxite industry.

“When we came to government, many of you will recall that the industry was in a very bad state. At the time, there were a lot of predictions from pundits and others, that the industry was uneconomical, it should have been closed.”

Amidst these predictions and calls from various sections of society, President Ramotar said his administration insisted that it will not close down the industry. It was, however, after a long and hard struggle, President Ramotar said, that Minister Robeson Benn and National Industrial and Commercial and Investment Limited’s (NICIL’s) Winston Brassington and others did all they could, to save the industry and restore it to its former glory.

“Indeed it was these two gentlemen, who journeyed to Russia, to open discussion and to stimulate the interest of RUSAL

President Donald Ramotar and Chief Executive Officer of RUSAL, Vladislav Soloviev cutting the symbolic ribbon to commission the Kurubuka mining complex in the presence of Ministers, Juan Edghill, Robeson Benn and Robert Persaud and other officials. in Guyana, and today we can say that the first part of the mission has been accomplished.”

President Ramotar also expressed his pleasure of having RUSAL in Guyana, as this also represents the strength and determination of the Russians.

He also spoke of Guyana, even though being a small country, still being able to make contribution, to ensuring that history will not repeat itself. “…

And one of the ways in which we see we can do this, is by improving the economy, making life more prosperous, and developing the different aspects of our life, we want to see that the wealth that is created in the country be shared by all the people of our country.”

The Head of State added that this investment would certainly benefit riverain communities of Region 10, including Hururu, Kwakwani and others, as the foundation is being set for a better life for all Guyanese. He also pointed out the importance of being able to sustain the quality of life for years to come.

The possibility of adding value to bauxite was a topic of discussion between

government officials and RUSAL and the President noted that it is his hope that this can be further explored.

“I hope it will continue, that we can add value to the bauxite right here in Guyana, that we can begin to think about moving once again to the production of aluminum. It has benefits for all of us, all of us will benefit-the investors and our country.”

This move, the president said, will also allow the government to offer more goods and services to its people.

RUSAL was lauded by the Head of State for this bold step, for showing such confidence in Guyana’s economy. He stated that he will be looking forward to working closely with Russia in other areas.

He noted that the country has great potential in other areas which can be further explored including, technology, hydro and micro hydro.

Meanwhile, Minister Robert Persaud also took the time to hail the company, for the initiative, as it had been several years in the making. This investment, Minister Persaud said, truly reflects

confidence on the part of the company, as it has expended $4.6 B on it. He too noted that the surrounding communities stand to benefit, as hundreds of Guyanese are currently employed by the company.

“We have always ensured that when foreign in-

especially in the development in the utilisation of our natural resource.”

BCGI, a subsidiary of RUSAL (successor to AMC/Bermine), was founded in December 2004, under an agreement between RUSAL and the Government of Guyana, and started its operational activities in 2005. RUSAL owns a 90% stake in the company, while the remaining 10% belongs to the Government of Guyana.

In 2013, BCGI commenced a project to develop a new deposit Kurubuka-22, located in Aroaima and which encompasses the construction of the mine, service road, and comprehensive production complex, to crush, dry, and onload commercial bauxite.

Minister Persaud said that from 2005 to 2014, the company directly invested US$96M (G$19.2B) into the Guyanese economy, of which, it spent locally US$65M (G$13B) in buying local materials and procuring services available.

The Minister also noted

2,300,000 tonnes per year in 2015, which equates to a 30% increase.

Today, despite facing challenges in the commodities market, bauxite investors remain committed to the development of the local bauxite industry, Minister Persaud stated. Government, he said, can take some comfort that 10 years ago, facing challenging fiscal times, and conditions to cease subsidising the industry, it made the appropriate changes that have seen the survival of the industry, for the development of the local communities.

RUSAL Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Vladislav Soloviev, thanked the Guyana Government for creating a favourable investment climate, and for all the necessary support for such an investment.

“Our business cooperation with Guyana is developing in the context of strengthening connections between Russia and Latin America.”

In this regard, he said

President Donald Ramotar and Chief Executive Officer of RUSAL, Vladislav Soloviev and Ministers, Juan Edghill, Robeson Benn, Robert Persaud and other officials during a tour of the facility. vestors come, that they are given the necessary support, that there is an enabling environment, but we also ensure that they adhere to our national laws, and at the same time ensure that they give back to the community, to ensure that the contribution to the country,

that total bauxite production for 2014 amounted to 1,601,747 MT of which BCGI produced 79%. With the expansion of its operations, by the commissioning of the Kurubuka-22 Mines, the company expects to increase its annual production to a capacity of

that Guyana has rich mineral resources, while Russia possesses the knowledge, experience and technology required for mining; hence, working together to implement projects in this area is a vital point of growth for mutual economic cooperation.

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

President proposes “15 in 2015” programme to restore confidence in Police Force

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rofessionalism, knowledge, people skills, firmness and fairness must be a hallmark of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in the discharge of its duties, as in so doing, ranks will inspire public confidence and trust, and be looked upon as role models for the career oriented and patriotic.,” This was the firm challenge from President Donald Ramotar to police officers, while delivering the feature address, to mark the opening of the annual Police Officers’ Conference at the Officers Mess, Eve Leary.

Peelian principles He called on officers follow the Peelian Principles of Policing, as set out by the late Sir Robert Peel, founder of the London Metropolitan Police Force in 1829. These, he said, were the technical principles, which though instituted as a guide for colonial police in the colonies of the United Kingdom, still had much relevance to today’s world.

He said that Sir Peel’s basic guidelines for ethical policing are: every police officer should bear visibly an Identification Number to ensure accountability for his or her actions; whether the police are effective or not is not measured in the number of arrests, but on the lack of crime; trust and accountability are paramount; preventive policing to deter crime; and the most important and essential police work is accomplished on patrol, in which officers become acquainted with their beats, prevent crime and by their mere presence, respond to crimes in progress, manage crises, and practise their skills.

The recent survey findings of the Latin American Public Opinion Project (LAPOP), President Ramotar said, showed that Guyana has the lowest level of public trust in the police force, regionally “and this trust has decreased over time.” Despite the various views of the survey, methodology and analysis, the

president said that the reality is that the findings have been widely disseminated and must be addressed objectively. The survey found that between 2012 and 2014, local trust in the GPF decreased by 10 points, on a 0 to 100 scale, from 45.8

comply with the laws and regulations.

He said those who are found in contravention of the Police Act and guilty of acting in contravention of their mandate, will be dealt with.

The Community Polic-

sions with schools to reduce violence and crimes 10. Establish drugs and weapons free zones such as near schools 11. Reopening of coldcase files to solve unresolved crimes 12. Establishment of

President Donald Ramotar addressing police officers and invited guests at the opening ceremony of the Annual Police Officers’ Conference in 2012 to 35.4 in 2014.

This was described by the president as a “worrying finding”.

This issue, he expects, will be discussed and ways to reverse this trend examined. “Let me be clear, this perception is not acceptable to me or any other Guyanese, and should not be acceptable to any of you here today, and we must take steps to change these perceptions”.

He further noted that this can only be possible if there is the will and desire to move forward, and so he challenged all of those in attendance, to not only think about the afore mentioned Peelian Principles, but also about keeping their friends, families and the country safe. “If this does not motivate you to take that step forward then nothing will”.

Lead by example The police command were urged by the president to lead by example and to “have its fingers on the pulse of all areas of Guyana” by knowing where persons reside, the locations of their businesses, the assets of local and foreign investors, where vehicles, aircraft and boats operate, and where the entry and exit points of the borders are, and people are expected to

ing Groups, it was noted by President Ramotar, are doing a commendable job for the most part, but others are using their membership to leverage for their individual agendas. This, the president stressed, will not be tolerated, “Betrayal of the code of ethics is cowardly and unacceptable behaviour. It must not be tolerated, and allowed to fester.”

“15 in 2015” The president then put forward his “15 in 2015 programme” to restore confidence in the Guyana Police Force. This will see the establishment of: 1. Neighborhood watch programmes, 2. Introduction of a problem oriented approach to solving crime 3. Increased numbers of police ranks in communities 4. Address the emergency 911 call system’s deficits 5. More rapid response time to crimes (currently the worst in the region, rapid response center proposed) 6. Establish directed patrols 7. Establish a pro-active arrest model (a high certainty of arrests for a narrow set of offences) 8. More covert patrols, more aggressive traffic law enforcement 9. More interactive ses-

a targeted policing programme (boosting confidence in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, construction, commerce and transport) 13. Expansion of youth clubs 14. Establish nuisance abatement programmes (curbing illegal noise nuisances) and 15. Expanded intelligence ability.

Corrupt practices Speaking on the issue of corruption, the Head of State said that members of the force cannot be “walking contradictions” pretending to be paragons of virtue and on the other hand surreptitiously filling their pockets.

He said those who harass innocent citizens and seek to enrich themselves must be removed.

“I expect you to exercise zero tolerance in identifying the corrupt, social deviants, the misfits who have infiltrated your ranks and then take appropriate action”.

Meanwhile, newly confirmed Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud said that in the past year, issues such as public trust, crime and traffic, and improved service to the public were the prime focus of the

GPF, and much has been achieved. He explained that all of the first year strategic priority objectives were achieved, with regard to the Police Strategic Plan.

Among the goals was the partnering with the United States, Pennsylvania Police Department, to realise first world practices, locally.

There was also the expansion of the COPS and Faith Initiative, to provide counselling for families affected by instances of crimes. A Chaplain Service is also providing services to police ranks after violent encounters with criminals.

This will take place wherever ranks are based in the ten administrative regions.

A suicide hot-line is set to be launched in the near future, the commissioner also said.

The well-received Social Crime Prevention Programme has successfully expanded from its initial startup in A-Division, he added. Two certifying officers are now permanently

fice has also been set up to better account for financial resources obtained. Each division now has a Management Information Unit to facilitate continuous analysis and monitoring of areas (hot spots) that need specific intervention. Following consultations in hinterland communities, a plan is now being implemented to engage more closely with the private sector organisations, Natural Resources Ministry and the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs with regard to law enforcement requirements.

In closing, Commissioner Seelall revealed that there was a 31% increase in fatal accidents for 2014 compared with 2013. For 2015 thus far, however, there has been a 30% decrease relative to the same period last year. For serious crimes, there was a reported 15% decrease at the end of 2014, relative to 2013. There has been a 3% reduction thus far in serious crimes compared with the

President Donald Ramotar inspecting police officers prior to the opening of the Annual Police Officers’ Conference attached to the Kuru Kuru Training College, to ensure that every graduate successfully obtain his or her driver’s licence.

The Drug Abuse and Resistance Education programme has also been reintroduced and more than 1,768 students from 48 schools have benefited. The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) was established and successfully resulted in several money seizures after money laundering investigations. An Audit and Inspection Of-

same period last year, he noted.

The current period leading into elections has resulted in inter agency collaboration being at its highest, and adequate security is in place, the commissioner said.

The conference held to review the Force’s 2014 initiatives and plans and those proposed for 2015 was held under theme, “Providing Effective Security through Partnership, Enhanced Public Trust and Capacity Building.”

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Guyana rejects Venezuela’s ‘subtle threat’

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- as ExxonMobil starts drilling

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he Government of Guyana has rejected “subtle threat” against Guyana’s territorial sovereignty by Venezuela, its neighbour to the west.

This comes after a communiqué from the Venezuelan Embassy was published in local print media which said it is surprised by the false accusation that Venezuela seeks or has sought to stymie the development of Guyana when, on the contrary, reliable proof can be displayed throughout the government of President Hugo Chavez and President Nicolas Maduro, that both leaders have maintained their conviction equally.

Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo was revived in March when it dispatched a letter to US oil company ExxonMobil warning it to desist from drilling for oil in the Stabroek Block area. Guyana had swiftly responded to Venezuela and also warned it not to impede on the developmental aspirations of this country.

The following, is the statement was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Georgetown on March 13 The Government of Guyana is extremely perplexed by the fact that the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, while declaring as false Guyana’s statement that Venezuela’s actions are aimed at stymieing Guyana’s development, that

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hairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Dr Steve Surujbally recently announced that April 7 is Nomination Day, when lists of candidates for the general and regional elections have to be submitted to the Chief Election Officer.

The GECOM Chairman made the revelation on March 11, when several of these parties met GECOM officials, to discuss procedures and expectations

same Government seeks to publicise those very objections to Guyana’s development initiatives – by also utilizing Guyana’s local media.

While the Communiqué which appeared in the Kaieteur News edition of March 13, 2015 mentions the fact that leaders from both countries have underscored the “necessity of deepening cooperation” between Guyana and Venezuela, it fails to recognize that those efforts have in fact been defeated by Venezuela’s threats and actions against investors wishing to operate and those already operating in Guyana, including by the very Communiqué under reference.

The premise of Venezuela’s objections continues to be its spurious and illegal claim to Guyana’s territory.

The land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela was permanently and definitively delimited on October 3, 1899 pursuant to the Treaty of Washington of February 2, 1897. The view expressed in the Communiqué under reference that there is a territorial dispute “inherited from British colonialism” is therefore patently false.

As a sovereign State, empowered under international law to exercise sovereign rights over its continental shelf and exclusive economic zone, the Republic of Guyana has full and unfettered authority to unilaterally explore

– with or without partners – and exploit the living and non-living resources within its jurisdiction. Any act or objection to the exercise of such jurisdiction is contrary to international law – both codified and customary international law.

While it is a fact that the delimitation of the maritime boundary between Guyana and Venezuela remains an outstanding matter, it is pellucid that there are maritime spaces that can legitimately belong to only one of the two States.

That is fully recognized under both customary and codified international law.

Venezuela’s vain effort to link its spurious and illegal claim to Guyana’s Essequibo to matters related to the continental shelf and the exclusive economic zone of Guyana within the context of the Geneva Agreement of February 17, 1966 therefore has no legal basis.

The fact is that the Geneva Agreement does not relate to a boundary or territorial dispute, but to a unilateral and unsubstantiated claim

by Venezuela that the Arbitral Award of 1899 is null and void. Guyana completely rejects this effort to conflate two separate matters within the context of the Geneva Agreement.

The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Guyana earlier this year elaborated on the reasons why Guyana was in the process of reviewing the options under

ExxonMobil's oil rig- the Deepwater Champion the Geneva Agreement for that any such action will be public opinion, will not be bringing the controversy in flagrant violation of the swayed by the falsities and initiated and maintained territorial integrity of Guy- fabrications in the Comby Venezuela, to an end. It ana, international law and muniqué issued by the Venshould suffice to repeat that will also constitute a mate- ezuelan Government on the Good Offices Process rial violation of the Geneva March 13, 2015. has been in existence for Agreement.

The Government of over twenty-five (25) years, Finally, the Govern- Guyana further calls on the but Venezuela has on many ment of Guyana wishes to Government of the Bolivaroccasions taken actions make it clear that invest- ian Republic of Venezuela and issued statements that ment approvals by it are to be respectful of the are inimical to that process done solely in the interest 1897 Treaty, the Arbitral even while it was in full op- of the people of Guyana. Award of 1899, the 1905 eration – this includes both Guyana therefore utterly re- demarcation of the boundmilitary actions and strident jects the insinuation that its ary between Guyana and statements by high officials investment operations are Venezuela pursuant to the of Venezuela. or could be inimical to the Arbitral Award and other Guyana rejects the sub- interests of the Government formally ratified documents tle threat issued in the sixth of the Bolivarian Republic between our two countries, paragraph of the Com- of Venezuela. Guyana notes the principles of general muniqué where it is stated that this assertion is without international law and the that Venezuela “reserves foundation since the Ven- Charter of the United Nathe right to execute all ac- ezuelan Government has tions in the conduct of its tions in the diplomatic field also sought to derail other relations with the Republic and in accordance with in- projects in Guyana that are of Guyana and its people. ternational law, that might being supported by a muThe Government of be necessary to defend and tually friendly State that is Guyana remains commitsafeguard the sovereignty fully a part of the “unity of ted to a diplomatic soluand independence [of Ven- Latin America” tion consistent with interezuela]” over Essequibo.

The Government of national law; however the The Government of the Guyana is convinced and public pronouncements by Republic of Guyana has assured that the people of Venezuela through various had occasion to caution the Guyana, and indeed in- media agencies cannot go Government of Venezuela ternational investors and unanswered.

Nomination Day is April 7 for that day and during the election season.

Speaking at the event, GECOM Chairman, Dr. Steve Surujbally, revealed that the Code of Conduct for political parties will be immediately available after Nomination Day for endorsement. He also called for decorum from political parties while campaigning.

“I am appealing since I cannot dictate, I am appealing to combatants within the realms of the respective political parties to ensure

that they maintain campaign decorum and that political speeches and rhetoric will remain respectful at all times. This respect is not for opposing parties themselves, this respect has to do with the Commission as well as the electorate,” the GECOM Chairman said.

He, however, acknowledged that over the years, political parties here have become more mature, crediting the maturity in part to political leaders’ abiding by the Elections Code of Con-

duct for political parties.

“In fact, I can go so far as to say after the political parties so maturely put together through GECOM’s guidance the Code of Conduct for political parties, and to a large extent, all the parties adhere to the code.

I would hate to know that over the next two months, we revert to what we had in the past.”

He said the tenets of the code and legislation are representative of the guiding principles of

GECOM, pointing out that the Commission is committed to managing the conduct of the elections within the Constitution and other statutory provisions. “In following those principles, we expect that we will be treated with dignity and respect. If the point of origin in our thoughts, beliefs and convictions represent one of the most important tiles in the mosaic of democracy, then you have to show that respect to the purvey-

ors, the organisers and the management of the electoral process, in this case, GECOM,” Dr. Surajbally said.

The Commission is working to ensure that the conduct in the elections is aboveboard – free, fair, transparent, and acceptable to the nation and the international community – and is in consonance with the spirit of the Constitution of Guyana, GECOM Chief Executive Officer Keith Lowenfield said.

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Letter to the Editor Editor-In-Chief: Shanta Gobardhan Editor: Henry Singh Editorial: 592 227 0773 Web: www.gina.gov.gy Facebook: GINA Email: ginagovgy@gmail.com Area ‘B’ Homestretch Avenue, Durban Backlands, Georgetown,Guyana

EDITORIAL Advising the nation’s young not to seek the truth about the nation’s past – an admission of guilt by political opposition

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oes being born in a different era of a country’s history preclude those persons from being au fait with details of the past, while having them adhere strictly to their time of birth and onwards of their existence? In other words, is it not the right for such a category, to want to know what occurred in their country’s past; and is it right to insist that their country’s past or knowledge of same is not important for their better understanding of their country’s present?

These questions are asked on the premise that since many senior-aged adults do exercise this option as a right, then why should it be denied the younger generation?

The above questions hold particular importance for Guyana and the younger segment of its citizens, at a time when preparations are already underway for what is billed as the most important national and regional elections in its post-independence history.

Based on available figures, a significant percentage of Guyanese eligible to vote will be mostly younger-aged citizens, with many of them taking part in this important constitutional process for the first time.

The fact is that they have been born mostly in the closing years of

the 1980s, and after the watershed year of 1992; meaning that they did not experience any of the People’s National Congress’(PNC’s) dictatorship and its brutalities.

But they have matured in the after period, gradually gaining awareness, at a time when Guyana had commenced its resurrection from a collapsed socio-economic state: democracy restored; and citizens’ enjoying a four-fold improvement in material living standards, inclusive of tens of thousands of Guyanese becoming homeowners, and of motor vehicles. Before their very eyes, these young Guyanese have been witnesses to new infrastructures in the form of hospitals and health centres, with exponential increase in medical personnel and the introduction of new medical facilities for quality delivery of health care services; newly built schools and vocational training centres; constructed roads and bridges; a national stadium; multi storey buildings housing corporate entities and other forms of commerce; restaurants, wine bars, and snackettes; the expansion of the banking industry, through the opening of representative branches throughout Guyana; and an inundation of private sector investments worth billions

that have contributed in no small way to the rebirth of a country that never existed, prior.

A notable significant for the young would be the large numbers of their peers, being very successful business owners, all occurring since the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) assumed the mantle of government.

As young people are known to do generally, these transformative changes they may be taking all for granted; and so what is wrong about bringing to their attention the scenario that existed before their births?

About their mothers and grandmothers particularly, having to stand in lengthy queues for basic food items; about the time when our numerous roads resembled craters as in a war zone; about the disintegration of social infrastructure; about the denial of the right of a free press and hence, freedom of expression; about the time when Guyanese were disrespected by their fellow sister CARICOM states, and many other obscenities, which as a people, they did have to endure, because of the then government betrayal of Guyana.

These are not fiction, but a sad and painful part of our country’s history, that a certain section of the political opposition

Social Sector improvements have brought improved living conditions to our people Dear Editor, It is amazing as to the results of government’s multibillion dollar efforts to completely overhaul the country’s social sectors, thereby effecting improved living standards among our citizens. I contend that these provided amenities are vital in the daily function of any country which aspires to first world status.

Experiencing what our social services are now able to deliver these days, is indeed a great relief, both refreshing and satisfying.

What a departure from virtually a state of once nonexistence of these very important functions!

Let us begin with roads and bridges. In many communities, there are now roads that have replaced dirt surfaces; new highways built, and existing ones widened to four lane space, because of increased number of motor vehicles; bridges that have replaced mere haphazard board walkways, for interlinking of areas; and culverts built to facilitate better drainage flow. is seeking to advise our young people not to know.

What an unfortunate and dishonest strategy! We agree that it is an election campaign, but to seek to blinker the nation’s young in such a brazen manner is tantamount to heresy. Such advice is akin to a teacher, who after teaching his students about the voyages of Christopher Columbus, from the second to the fourth and final one, would refuse to illustrate the first expedition, explaining that it was not important!

Any generation of a nation’s people have the right to be told about the events/ incidents of the previous years, and how much these have influenced its national historical ethos and onward development. It makes for a better under-

Whereas, twenty years ago, the State health system was nothing but scandalous, today our citizens are accessing newly built hospitals, such as the ones at Linden, New Amsterdam, and Lethem. There are even diagnostic centres that are strategically located, for convenient and accelerated assistance to those in need of medical attention. More doctors are now within the health systems, as well as new services are offered to the public.

Congratulations, too, for an education system that is still in the process of quantum change, for quality delivery of scholastic learning to our students. No wonder that our students are now routinely securing double digit subject passes, as well as copping regional top prizes at the CXC Examinations.

Let us not be subjective, because of what our particular political preferences may be. It must be admitted that Guyana is now a much

better place in which we live, because of vastly improved available services on offer. And the vital areas of health, education, water, roads and bridges, represented by a microcosm of examples mentioned above, tell a story of a government which understands the meaning of socio-economic development for the benefit of its citizens.

Perusing the national budgetary allocations for the above–named sectors, the kinds of investments made have been quite exponential. Ours as a country has been very fortunate, when compared with other countries which cannot afford to invest in their social sectors because of economic constraints.

Not that I have forgotten, but our housing programme has added economic stock to so many tens of thousands. Where else within CARICOM is this happening?

Peter Ackloo

Email letters to: ginagovgy@gmail.com standing and appreciation of what their particular country’s national experiences have been, travelling along its many pathways, while offering insights as to the reasons that influenced these dynamics.

Any young person should be told about, or be encouraged to find out and understand, his/her country’s past, especially when such has great influence on its future; as in the extant case of Guyana.

For the young segment of Guyana, they should be reminded that the socio-economic development that is daily unfolding before their eyes, was not given on a platter, but instead has been implemented by a government, which had to battle with a political opposition bent

on derailing the country’s national development recovery process. Ironically, it is the same political force, now aligned with others, that seeks to hide the facts of its criminal past from our young people, during its twenty eight years in government.

Finally, knowledge of the past will enable young electors to comprehend what this May 11 poll means for their future, in terms of the continuation or not of Guyana’s socioeconomic advancement, in which they will adversely be affected, should they make the incorrect decision; or their progress be assured, should they do what is right.

The past is their guide to a better tomorrow and continued progress.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

7

Granger clearly debunked as LAPOP survey says fewer Guyanese thinking of leaving country - Teixeira

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he bold announcement from Latin American Public Opinion Project (LAPOP) is that fewer Guyanese are now looking to migrate.

This is according to its survey last year.

LAPOP is run by US University Vanderbilt, and it conducts the Americas-Barometer survey every two years, in what is deemed as a scientifically rigorous comparative study, covering some two dozen countries including Guyana, all of the mainland independent countries in North, Central, and South America, as well as a significant number of countries in the Caribbean.

In Guyana’s case, questions asked in the survey, focused on whether or not the individual intends to work or live abroad in the next three years. The firm response noted that, “We see that a smaller percentage of people responded yes to that question in 2014, than did in some of these earlier years,” Director of LAPOP Dr. Elizabeth Zechmeister explained, adding that there has been a decrease in people’s intentions to emigrate, even though that desire is still high in Guyana compared with other countries.

Results from the survey done in the middle of last year had indicated that Guyanese are more satisfied with their lives. “We see some indicators that

people are a bit more satisfied, a little more content with their lives,” Dr. Zechmeister said.

She noted that people are more satisfied in 2014 with their lives than they have been on average in previous years especially.

it is very careful in terms of testing material before, as well as looking at the selection of persons, who will be chosen to represent class, rural, urban, geography… and in cases like Guyana, looking at the ethnicity composition.”

Authentic body On “Political Scope” aired on the National Communications Network, the Presidential Advisor rightly made much of this ponderous revelation. She informed that LAPOP is probably the most trusted barometer in the Latin American Caribbean (including Canadian and the United States) when it comes to tracing trends and development within the region, particularly to do with crime, security, democracy and government.

She reiterated that the group, at present, deals with 24 countries, of which Guyana started being surveyed just prior to the elections in 2006. Ms. Teixeira observed that, “it was a rather useful study-a very scholastic survey, done across the countries, in which the materials are tested long in advance and that persons are trained to carry out the surveys in the countries.”

She explained that “the individual respondents are interviewed face-face, unlike what obtains with Transparency International, which has maybe six

Concerns Ms. Teixeira pointed out that one of the concerns in this 2012-2014 survey is that of the region’s; it is that there has been a decline in a number of key indicators to do with satisfaction with police performance in Latin America. She singled out that “one in two individuals and one in three persons do not have confidence in the police performance, which is extremely high.”

She made specific reference that this survey, done 2012-2014, in the context of Guyana, with its first monitory government, “where the opposition was cutting the budget like mad, and putting us (Guyana) before financial bodies.”

For her, it is this context, that the United States has ‘police satisfaction’ that is higher than Guyana. She opined that the timing was before the police shootings in the US, and it would have been interesting to see the results afterwards.

Overall though, for the Presidential Advisor, Guyana comes out well in a number of other indicators, even when the police are at

Presidential Advisor, Gail Teixeira people in Guyana, proffering opinions,” and so, she added this kind of work is a mere ‘perception indicator’ and cannot be taken as authentic.

LAPOP, she elaborated, has particular parameters and there may be some innuendos that are specific to a country. However, a general set of questions are asked across the 24 countries in the group, and with Guyana, the number of respondents was 1558.

It should be noted, Ms. Teixeira said, that most of the Caribbean countries, regardless of the size of the population, were in that range, as well as the United States. Overall this means that some 50,000 people were interviewed for the survey that is done in the 24 countries, and “so it’s quite a sizeable and significant indicator of people’s views, it is a trusted and respected process, because

the bottom of the ranking of the institutions in Guyana.

In this vein, she explained that Guyana does not give security that high ranking as the number one concern; it gives politics as the major concern, and this again is within a time frame, when the people feel that the political realm is where problems are taking place.

Debunking Mr. Granger Ms. Teixeira noted that according to the survey, 73.3% of the people said they were satisfied with their lives. She then pointed out that Mr. David Granger in particular should pay attention to this and the opposition overall. She elaborated that despite the decline in the whole region, on confidence in the armed forces, the police, the judicial system, political parties and government, “that’s a trend in this particular 2014 report, that Guyana has people who say they are satisfied with their lives,” and according to her “this profit-of- doom approach of Mr. Granger, that this is an unhappy nation, that we are all unhappy people, is debunked by very hard core data coming out and saying that people’s lives are quite satisfied.”

She noted that strengthening this discovery is the fact that those persons who are saying that they are satisfied are the new voters, going into the 2015

elections. The report indicated that the highest level of satisfaction is from two groups: those between 18 and 25; and the older group that are plus 40 going into their 60s.

Since 2012, the survey indicated that there was also a decline in political system support and decreased satisfaction with the way democracy works.

Dr. Zechmeister noted that the 2012 survey was done in the early part of that year which was not that long after the 2011 elections, and so it seemed that there was a little bit of a honeymoon effect for the system in general. People were feeling a bit more supportive of the system, they were also a little more politically interested and a little bit more trusting of political parties, she said.

“The message coming from the survey data seems to be that the system is falling a bit short in meeting those expectations,” she added.

Dr. Zechmeister and Dr Mitchell Seligson, the founder and senior adviser to LAPOP, said that the survey reveals interesting as well as provocative trends and those interested can access the data on the project’s website. “We identify problem areas, we identify successes and then we hope that others take that information and can act on it,” she said.

Contract for Umana Yana’s rebuilding to be signed soon

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contract to execute the rebuilding of the iconic Umana Yana on High Street, Kingston, will be signed very soon, with the intention of having reconstruction begun in the second half of the year.

Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon spoke of this development, in response to a query, during his most recent postCabinet media briefing, at the Office of the President, about the reconstruction of the structure, which was destroyed by fire in September 2014.

The Umana Yana before it was destroyed by fire The Umana Yana was a conical palm thatched

hut (benab), erected for the Non-Aligned Foreign

Ministers Conference in Georgetown, Guyana in

August 1972.It had become the venue for many local events, including those of Amerindian origin.

The structure was 55 feet (16.78 meters) high and made from thatched allibanna and manicole palm leaves, and wallaba posts, lashed together with mukru, turu and nibbi vines.

No nails were used. It was erected by a team of about 60 Wai-Wai Amerindians, one of the nine indigenous tribes of Guyana. Fashioned like the Wai-Wai benabs or shelters, which are found deep in Guyana's interior, it occupied an area

of 460 square meters, making it the largest structure of its kind in Guyana.

On August 26, 1974, then President Forbes Burnham unveiled the African Liberation Monument outside the benab "in memory of all of those who have struggled and continue to struggle for freedom from Human Bondage".

Umana Yana is a WaiWai word meaning "Meeting place of the people".

Renovated in 2010, on September 9, 2014, the structure was destroyed by a fire suspected to be electrical in origin.

8

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

PNC does not embrace coalition politics-history has proven so- AG T he People’s National Congress (PNC) does not embrace coalition politics given the fact that several attempts by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) failed and every single one of the elections prior to the one held in 1992 were rigged.

This is the view expressed by Attorney General (AG) and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, on a “Political Scope” programme, broadcast on the National Communications Network.

In speaking of the PNC’s failure to embrace coalition politics, the reason given by him for this asseveration inheres in the history of coalition in Guyana. According to the AG, the dominant partner in this current coalition of the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) is the PNC “who have addressed the question on a number of occasions …During the early 60s Dr. (Cheddi) Jagan addressed the issue on a number of attempts to build a national front government….and on every occasion, Forbes Burnham rejected it.”

This is because his problems with the PPP stemmed from his position of ‘leader or nothing.’

The minister explained that this type of philosophy has always dominated the history of the PNC and was being perpetuated long after Forbes Burnham did so in the 50s and the 60s.

He recapped that the “PNC entered into a coalition agreement in 1964, not with the PPP (but to get rid of it), but with the UF (United Force), and expectedly his coalition did not last, and every member, except a few in that coalition, was kicked out

by Forbes Burnham, who made a public statement that the PNC will never enter into a coalition again.”

Following this, the AG reminded that in the 70s again, the PPP tried to have a coalition with the PNC and repeatedly this was rejected, all the way throughout the 80s.

Ghoulish history of dastardly nature of PNC principals Even though Minister Nandlall firmly believes that the coalition will not win the elections and “therefore we may not have to confront the difficulties that the situation presents,” he feels most compelled “to explain to the

Flashback: In keeping with his commitment made during the election camapaign, President Ramotar meets Opposition Leader David Granger for talks Guyanese populace, the nature of tions of the accord cannot be imthe two parties’ arrangement and plemented, since they are not acto express my personal view that commodated in the constitution.

I believe that there is no bona fide The AG pointed out that the and there is no intention whatso- ‘conjured up’ Cummingsburg ever, to uphold that arrangement Accord is flawed, as “it is not should the unlikely eventuality of grounded in the constitution.” their winning occurs.”

In fact, he posited strongly, that The AG, in analysing this what the accord does is really kind of autocratic posture from proposing of the subversion of the PNC, proffered that “it rein- the supreme law of the land, the forces my argument that they do Guyana Constitution. not embrace coalition politics.

Minister Nandlall explicated Why do I say so? You looked at that the “Constitution of Guythe elections which we had whilst ana provides very clearly that the they were in government and President is the Supreme Execuother than 1992, every single one tive Authority of Guyana” and of those elections were rigged…. as the Head of State, “the powand I don’t think we should even ers that devolve on him are very dispute that, those are facts, eve- specific, and if he fails to abide ry one of them was rigged.” therein, he can actually be reThis tyranny was made pos- moved from office, more so, that sible because “the army was used the judiciary is independent, unas an instrument at that time in like what used to happen in the the process, which rigged the pre-1992 era.” elections… and (David) Granger In his estimation, the miniswas in the leadership of the army ter deems the accord as a “fraud at that time, so any attempt to and a farce” from the coalition distance him from the role the and one which cannot work; it army played would be less than was also never intended to work, honest, so you had them perpet- according to Mr. Nandlall, as it uating themselves in power in “… is inherently in conflict with, rigged elections, then you look and in violation of the constituat the approach to political oppo- tion of the country. It puts the nents and you see that they em- presidential and prime ministeploy violence, intimidation and rial candidates in conflict with sometimes even use lethal force the constitution, and places them to confront opposition elements.” in a very invidious position viz a viz with the provisions of the Illegality and impracticability constitution.”

The AG was very pellucid and This, he said, means that “the enlightening, as for him, the peo- constitution obliges the presiple of Guyana must really under- dent to discharge the responsibilstand the serious implications of ity which it devolves upon him.” the document, since they are very Contrary actions then are prohibanti-constitutional. According to ited, he added, as a disregard of him, even in the unlikely realisa- constituted responsibilities is “intion of a win for the APNU/AFC deed a ground for the removal of coalition, the terms and ramifica- the president (himself) if he vio-

lates the constitution itself.”

It should be noted, according to the AG, that the agreement then is not authentic according to the laws of Guyana, as “it allows Mr. Granger, unilaterally and without reference to the constitution, and without the requisite amendment to reduce his powers and correspondingly to confer those powers on his prime ministerial candidate.”

He added that the office of the prime minister is also one that the constitution creates and it is also one of the offices that the constitution defines in terms of the responsibilities that are in relation to that office.

The minister poignantly emphasised that there is no document (whatsoever) extraneous to the constitution, which can increase (or even tamper with) those powers. This translates to the irrefutable fact that a president cannot unilaterally, irrespec-

mootoo as Speaker of the House on the grounds that he did not trust him, as he was for a long time a PPP stalwart. In this vein, AG Nandlall wants to know what has or can change.

He then went on to examine what happened to Clement Rohee as he recalled how the PNC came up with “this bizarre theory that Rohee gave instructions for police to shoot protestors at Linden and as a result we held an international inquiry … of course the enquiry embarrassed them an exonerated Rohee, rather than implicated him.”

Mr. Nandlall then remembered how they all ganged up and made a decision to gag Rohee from speaking; this kind of action he explained was not unprecedented. The AG brought back memories from the height of the ONC dictatorship, when Cheddi Jagan was also banned from speaking in the parliament.

A long standing tradition; the PPPC Government engaging the Opposition Leader on issue of development. Flashback: Former President Bharrat Jagdeo and then People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) Leader Robert Corbin discussing local government issues tive of the wide ambits of power that he has enjoyed, simply cannot outside of the constitutional framework by virtue of some third or second document, increase those powers, because he will be violating the constitution.

The AG summed it all up stating that these are reasons why “I am of the view that the entire document itself in grounded in violation of the constitution,” as it professes to imbue these persons, assuming that they win the elections, this is what they have signed on to.

No trust for Nagamootoo-a charade by Granger The minister explained that Mr. Granger once rejected Mr. Naga-

This he said shows that even now, with a little power given to them in the parliament and Rohee’s banning- even as was done to Cheddi Jagan, who was the leader of the opposition at the time, nothing has changed.

He explained that with Clement Rohee’s situation, “We went to court and I got a court order to say that the gagging of Rohee was unconstitutional; yet they never regarded nor obeyed that court order. AG Nandlall recalled that the Speaker himself of the National Assembly ruled that their gagging of Rohee was unconstitutional, yet they did not allow Rohee to speak, even up to when parliament went into recess prior to the prorogation and then its eventual continued on page 9 dis-

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Opposition’s racism statements are meant to deflect attention from their tarnished track record - President Ramotar

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resident Donald Ramotar has dismissed claims that his party practises racism, stating that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has always been a national party and will continue in the same vein.

The Head of State, speaking during an interview at the Office of the President, noted that every programme and policy, crafted under the administration, from its foundation, has reflected that it is a party which seeks to serve all Guyanese, irrespective of race or political affiliation.

The president noted that the suggestions which are being peddled by the opposition are their only strategy to deflect attention away from their tarnished track record.

“The opposition parties

like to say that they are different and they are not into race, but the fact that Moses Nagamootoo can say that he will deliver 11 percent of Indian votes to David Granger and the APNU, clearly shows that they have ethnic counting in their political calculations.”

President Ramotar said that while the parties talk one thing, they practice something else and this was evident during the last election campaign.

“It is very clear that the opposition parties are not getting the kind of traction that they wanted to get from their coalition, they are in fact losing grounds, and they don’t have any record to compare with ours. Their 28 years in government that they don’t like to talk about was characterised by the deterioration of the econo-

my of our country.”

However, the president noted that he has every confidence in the electorate; that they will see through the comments being uttered by the opposition, as the progress in the entire country speaks for itself.

He added that the opposition could never substantiate their claims that the incumbent government practises racism as its policies are wide spread and far reaching.

“I will say that the PPP was founded as a national party and it has remained a national party since then, it has never had any programme or policy that favours one race at the expense of another.”

The president however pointed out that there are programmes that seek to give some priority to the

native Amerindian communities which were left back by colonialism and by the last PNC regime. “…In order to help them to catch up with the same level of the state, a lot more investments and attention are being paid in those areas, but there is no policy that you can identify that the PPP has any policy in race and also in practices.”

Speaking from a historical standpoint, President Ramotar recalled that during 1961 to 1964 there was quite a bit of racial clashes in Guyana and even in the face of such, the PPP came out in the fight against racism.

“In fact the party had a minor split after the 1964 election because there was a body of views of some people that the party should

continue to fight against the PNC regime that had taken a line with colonialism.”

However, the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan had concluded by then that the independent struggle had deteriorated into racial clashes, and if the party had taken that path, it would have been much more difficult to bring back racial and national unity in society.

“And it is reflected in his writing in 1965. Weeks after he came out of government, he wrote an article to the PPP supporters in which he condemned racism completely and which he pointed out that anyone who practises racism it is not only an enemy of the country, but an enemy to him/herself.”

This point was later reiterated in another article published in April of the

9

President Donald Ramotar same year in The Thunder as he wrote forcefully against racism.

“That is the party I came from, and that is the party I have been General Secretary for 16 years; that is the tradition I follow and the direction we follow as a national party, one for all the people of Guyana, fighting for the betterment of working people and living standard within our society.”

PNC does not embrace coalition politics-history has...

from page 8

solution. This meant that Rohee was prevented from presenting any bills in the National Assembly.

In the AG estimation, he declared that “if they are prepared with a little power to use it to gag a powerful office holder and personage in the form of Clement Rohee, what do you think they will do to the ordinary people of this country if they get governmental power?

Those are the reasons why I say that the record, their philosophy, antecedents, history do not suggest that they would embrace their democratic concepts and they will embrace any form of coalition.”

Recent happenings He recalled that in 1992, when the PPP managed after a long 28 years of struggle, to bring ‘free and fair’ elections to the country, that “it was the first time that we got this and those elections were certified to be ‘free and fair.’ However, Mr. Desmond Hoyte, at first never wanted to accept the results. He however eventually had to, but many executives of his party dissented, and the AG recalled the results: “there was mayhem in the streets of

our country, violence… innocent people were killed.”

Minister Nandlall also examined the 1997 elections, and those in 2001, which were again certified to be free and fair, and still when the results were out violence again, there was violence by the PNC. Minister Nandlall went even further in exposing the nature of the PNC. He made reference to the fact that “the PNC in their own congress… in 2014 in their own congress when Mr. Granger contested for the leadership, Mr. Carl Greenidge also contested … after those elections Mr. Carl Greenidge lost… and Vanessa Kissoon and many other members of that party at the congress, went on went on the television and said those elections were rigged.”

Revelations from Rodney COI Minister Nandlall brought up the issue of the Commission of Inquiry into the death of Dr. Walter Rodney and the evidence that this is unfolding before the nation. He described as most frightening what the commission is revealing.

As testimony to the ve-

racity of his assessment, the AG referred to the twin killing of Bholanauth Parmanand and Jagan Ramessar, both of whom were gunned down by the military for ‘having been at the wrong place at the wrong time’. This incident took place at Number 64 village on the Corentyne coast, because the two requested that the ballots be counted at the place of poll.

Buttressing his arguments even further and expounding more on the suffocating political environment, the AG pointed to the issue of press freedom, which for him was non-existent, as the press was absolutely controlled by the government. He brought back memories of the Mirror Newspaper which was denied news print to publish, journalists who were repeatedly harassed, beaten, imprisoned, and Father Darke, a photographer with the Catholic Standard, who was murdered in broad daylight on Brickdam.

In a relevant but tangential comment, the minister said that Moses Nagamootoo, now a part of the coalition, is so discomfited, that he is now saying that Guyanese must not be en-

slaved by the past, because he knows well that he himself fought against the very things he is now embracing and is being a major part of.

In revisiting rigged elections, during the PNC’s tenure, the AG spoke of the massive scale of rigging by the PNC, detailing that the PNC rigged in such a way that they gave themselves a two-thirds majority, so they controlled the parliament, they controlled the executive by unlawful measures, and then that rigging extended to the control of the judiciary.”

The AG recalled that in1970, appeals were made to the Privy Council, an external court in England, to which people could have appealed if they were dissatisfied with a decision of the court system in Guyana.

However, he explained that Burnham, using the argument that Guyana must relinquish itself from all vestiges of colonialism, abolished appeals to that court; in fact abolished that court from the legal system of the country, thereby creating a structure that presumably he can control.

This was reflected in the fact that during the years of the PNC regime, party

paramountcy was practised “because they said that the PNC party is paramount to the state and every state agency in the country was subject and subservient to the party.” This paramountcy was embodied in the “party flag… and they flew it over the Guyana Court of Appeal, over and above the National Flag (Golden Arrowhead), signalling to the nation and to the world that the judiciary is subject to and subservient to, and obviously manipulable by the PNC. The AG then asked, “Can the PNC, now against that background, do you think that these are people who are interested in coalition politics?”

Appeal In closing comments, the AG said that come polling day, it is a straight race between the PNC and the PPP/C, as he “will disregard the name change and the label of a coalition.”

He detailed that Guyana had the PNC in government and “so you have a track record of 28 years to judge them by and you have the PPP/C in government and you have a track record of 22 years to judge

us by and it is as simple as that.” He added that “I cannot understand how the rational mind will have any difficulty in making a decision between these two parties... You had economic stagnation, bankruptcy of the economy, national debt that was uncontrollable, banning of basic food items, a taking away of democracy from the country, deprivation of freedom and civil liberties in the country and as a result there was mass migration.”

The AG then contrasted this gloom with present reality of progress: housing schemes; how well children are doing at CXC exams; the fact that Guyana is growing as a country in a very adverse political environment and at a rate of 4.5 percent per annum and over 9 consecutive years and this is the highest growth rate in the Caribbean; the fact that Government is able to raise public servants salary; social benefits for pensioners and increasing them annually; and the fact that it has been able to move interest rate at the bank from 38 percent as it was in 1992 to 4.5 percent for low income loans.

10

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Vital for police to regain public’s confidence - President Ramotar

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he issue of confidence building in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been revisited by Head of State Donald Ramotar, following his recent charge to the force to improve in this regard.

The complaint that citizens have been making, regarding the non-working 911 system, was raised again by the President, who declared that “this has to be fixed, even if we have to go to some special arrangement to get it fixed, so that every time a phone call is made, it is answered and action is taken.”

The president explained that his administration is looking at putting in the systems, to ensure that even “if it means that I have to outsource this, I am ready to do that, because this is extremely important for the police force, to ensure that all calls are answered and that they act, they respond to these issues that citizens have been complaining about (and) rightfully so."

President Ramotar was at the time speaking on the programme “At Home with the President,” aired on the National Communications Network Inc. During his address at the recent GPF's annual conference,

he had spoken of the police and their initiating better work ethics and engendering trust from the populace.

These sentiments were made in the context of the findings of the last survey, conducted by the Latin American Public Opinion Project (LAPOP), and which found that Guyana has the lowest level of trust in the police in the region, and that trust in the local police force is continuing to decrease.

He opined that what he found out in the report was very unacceptable, and this is exactly why he mentioned the matter, when he spoke at the police officers' conference.

His pronouncement was emphatic: “I was very explicit on this matter, to say how much I am disappointed, and I said very frankly (that) it is not acceptable to me, nor is it acceptable to the Guyanese people, and I expect that it is not acceptable to the leadership of the Guyana Police Force, and therefore we have to ensure that we work on these issues, to build back the trust of the Guyana Police Force with the population.”

President Ramotar explained that his administration, via the police, has

President Donald Ramotar, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee and police top brass take a photo opportunity following the opening ceremony a Police Officers Conference already started to do ‘trust are called in by citizens, effective force. building’ work within the and I’m putting it to them communities, noting that … as we have to ensure that CPGs role “they had some work done they have a proper response President Ramotar also in Albouystown, they had time … the shortest possi- looked into the topic of some work done in Agrico- ble time, for their arrival on Community Policing la, and they are now spread- the scene must be very short Groups (CPGs), as it is felt ing out some of that type of and as short as possible in in some quarters that some work in other areas, and that that regard.” members are using the I think is beginning to pay An optimistic President group to further their indioff for them, because they Ramotar feels that there vidual agenda. are winning more and more will be a quick turn-around.

In a direct answer to support in the commu- He thinks that with the gen- the issue, he explained that nity and that is extremely eral work that the police are in general, the CPGs have important.” doing and the resources that been doing a good job and The president said that the PPP/C is now putting they have been complehe is encouraging the force into the police force, that menting the work of the to continue in that aspect of they will help considerably, police force. However, in their work. He mentioned restoring confidence in the his very candid and plainthe sore topic of reacting police. spoken manner, the Guyawhen informed and deAt that same police nese leader admitted that it clared that “we have been conference, the President is also true that he has heard talking to them about their laid out a 15 point plan, “15 complaints about some response time when they in 2015,” to ensure a more members, and their abuse

of their roles in the CPGs. As he was with the matters of ‘confidence building’ and ‘response time’ with the force, President Ramotar did not shy away from the issue. “I must say that too is unacceptable and we cannot allow it, no one should use their position in the police or in the CPG, to leverage anything … they must not ever forget that their main task is to give service to the Guyanese people.”

He further elaborated that it is vital that the members understand their important link in crime fighting. As for the CPGs, he detailed that “they are even more important, because they are the first contact with the community, with the people in the community, and it is important for them to have the highest level of confidence, and the people must have a lot of confidence in them.”

He pinpointed a few things, where this ‘importance’ of the CPGs is concerned: they facilitate easier and faster report; they can have intelligence information of what is going on; and generally they help in the uplifting of policing and security in the various areas.

President condemns execution style killing of political activist

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resident Donald Ramotar has strongly condemned the killing of political activist, Courtney Crum-Ewing.

In no uncertain words, the president has urged the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF’s) high command to do whatever it will take to find those responsible for the former army officer and recent remigrant’s demise, in Diamond Housing scheme.

“Leave no stone unturned, in finding those who perpetuated this crime, and if necessary, if it exists to find the intellectual authors of this criminal act that was committed,” he stated.

Noting that some persons have since described

Ewing’s killing as “the first for the political season”, President Ramotar said that if they have information, it should be reported to the GPF. “The police must deal with this matter otherwise what they are saying could be construed as being instigation to violence in our country. They must come to the organisation that is responsible and let them deal with this issue”.

Following the killing of the activist, the Ministry of Home Affairs has urged the GPF to do all that it can to apprehend the killer(s) and bring them to justice.

President Donald Ramotar also appealed to all Guyanese regardless of

Courtney Crum-Ewing their political affiliation to of how one could explain work towards the strength- the two occasions that the ening of the nation’s Anti-Money Laundering security. and Countering of Financ“We cannot continue ing of Terrorism Bill, was to have opposition for the voted down by the political sake of having opposition”, opposition. “How could the President said. you explain that when He raised the question you’re putting the citizens

of the country in danger, and at the same time creating the perception that you want to turn this country from a haven for criminal and international drug traffickers. That is unacceptable. That cannot be politics as usual. That is creating a terrible situation for our people in our country”.

President Ramotar also questioned the calls made by the political opposition to the Inter- American Development Bank (IDB) to prevent money for the Citizens Security Strengthening Project from coming to the security forces.

Some US$15 million is earmarked for the GPF, Civil Service and community based initiatives to

deal with the root cause of crimes, he said.

“This cannot be politics and we must do our best to ensure that our security forces have both the laws and the wherewithal to fight crimes both internal and trans-border. I appeal for good sense.”

The Head of State also called on the political parties to ensure that before, during and after the upcoming elections, they pledge their support to the GPF and the joint services.

He said, “They must appeal to their constituency, and their staff, to display maturity and patriotism and demonstrate to the world that we are a progressive and responsible people”.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

11

Seelall Persaud confirmed as Police Commissioner -pledges to continue to work on making force more professional

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he former acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud has now been confirmed to the post. At the swearing-in ceremony, held at the Presidential Complex on March 10, in the presence of members of the Police Service Commission, Guyana Police Force’s High Command, head of the joint services, the Home Affairs and Legal Affairs Ministers, senior members of the judiciary and family members, Commissioner Persaud thanked President Donald Ramotar and his administration for their confidence in him.

He stated that the occasion, for him, was one marked with humility and a great sense of accomplishment. Describing his career as a long journey, the commissioner said it was a bumpy one filled with challenges. “I’ve enjoyed a career that has been characterised by excitement and rewards.”

A pledge was also made by him to continue efforts in making the force more professional and one that embraces values of democracy. He thanked God for seeing him come “this far” and for his family, who stuck with him through thick and thin, police commanders and

Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud taking his oath of office before President Donald Ramotar friends, all of whom provided him even if a worst case scenario prewith support over his years in the sents itself, such as a “total breakforce. down in law and order,” he emphaIn an invited comment, the new sised. He stated that he and the Top Cop vowed to continue efforts police force have been preparing to root out rogue ranks who harass for the eventuality, since the formotorists, warning that they must mal date was announced. see an offence being committed, Police Commissioner Persaud before stopping the errant driv- has served in the force for close to ers. The push to ‘name and shame’ 31 years, with most of that spent drunk drivers, who are charged and within the Criminal Investigation prosecuted will also continue, he Department (CID). He served as said, as well as the increased usage head of the anti-narcotics squad of breathalysers, to curb incidences for 10 years and CID for seven, of drunk driving. serving in both coastal and inteThe fact that his confirmation rior locations. Persaud, 51, holds came some two months prior to the a Bachelor’s Degree in Public upcoming General and Regional Management and a Post-Graduate Elections will not be a challenge, Diploma in International Studies Commissioner Seelall indicated, from the University of Guyana.

Records will show Granger was consulted on Top Cop’s appointment-HPS

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pposition Leader David Granger’s remarks that he was not consulted on the confirmation to office, of Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, is decidedly at odds with reality. This is according to Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon.

Dr. Luncheon said that he has correspondences from Mr. Granger in response to those from Office of the President, addressing specifically the issue of the appointment and the confirmation to office of Seelall Persaud. Even further, Dr. Luncheon said that when Seelall Persaud was confirmed as the Acting Commissioner, the records will show that Granger, as he did in the case of Former Commissioner Leroy Brummel, sought to persuade President Ramotar to make a substantive appointment.

Dr. Luncheon said that it was ironic that when the president later approached Granger and said he was ready to make the substantive appointment, that Granger could not have been found, and he then “unveiled a series of his disquiet, his reluctance” and said, that he could not agree to Seelall’s be-

ing appointed substantively as the Commissioner.”

Since Granger’s remarks are “decidedly at odds with reality and ‘at odds’ with what has taken place,” the Cabinet Secretary posited that the only reason that Granger could have make such remarks may be because they have to deal with a judgment that Granger has about what he feels constitutes consultation. “… What he really might have been saying is that I do not like the result of the consultation,” Dr. Luncheon pointed out.

The Cabinet Secretary noted though that the president has been chasing behind David Granger, “morning, noon and night,” on the issue, he is no easy cat to get in touch with … I can tell you that, and had it not been for intermediates, he would have been the ‘unfindable.”

Dr. Luncheon explained that the Office of the President and Granger though have indeed worked out a modus; an individual that the Office of the President has resorted to, so as to gain access to the Leader of the Opposition, not only for the purpose of consultation on the appointment and confirmation of Seelall, but others as well.

Opposition Leader should desist from using security sector as ‘political football’ - Minister Rohee

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ome Affairs Minister Clement Rohee has made a call to Opposition Leader David Granger to desist from using the security sector as a ‘political football’ stating that Granger conveniently chooses not to recognise the progress of the sector.

In a statement issued

by Minister Rohee, he said Mr. Granger has obviously chosen to so do so for political reasons. Referring to a press statement issued by the Guyana Police Force, Rohee said the police recently appealed to all political parties not to use the force for political mileage.

The police’s statement also noted that the force was making every effort to improve the quality of service it provides and to gain public trust.

According to Minister Rohee, the opposition lead-

er “likes to set himself up as the guru for the security sector in Guyana and tries to convince the nation that no one else but he has all the answers to the security situation in our country, ignoring all accomplishments and investments done since 1992 by the PPP/C Administration.”

Minister Rohee further pointed out that Mr. Granger’s PNC has never in its 28 years of misrule for the security sector, done what the PPP/C has done, “and his Security Advisor Winston Felix is very much aware of these facts.”

Minister Rohee in his statement noted that Granger continues to make erroneous comments which must be addressed so that the public can be better informed of the efforts this Government is making in the area of public safety

and security.

Shedding some insight on the piracy situation, the subject Minister said it has been well established that a Guyana Police Force marine floating base was commissioned to operate collaboratively with ranks of other Law Enforcement agencies.

The Guyana Defence Force also has a similar floating base located at the mouth of the Pomeroon River.

This $49.9 million capital investment was complemented by the procurement of a boat imported from the US costing $71.4 million, in addition to four new vessels built at a cost of $4.9 million.

The PPP/C Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to public safety and security and this is evident in

capacity-building by way of training provided to the marine wing of the Force.

It was also noted that instances of piracy has dropped significantly within the past months.

Guyana’s collaborative efforts, the Minister said, with those of Suriname have contributed significantly to the reduction in instances of piracy on the Corentyne River Further the Home Affairs Minister noted that by now Guyanese are aware that all previous strategic plans developed during Government’s engagement with local and overseas consultants have been subsumed in the current strategic plan whose implementation is being overseen by the Civilian composed Strategic Management Department.

“The Ministry of Home

Affairs is awaiting resources to further engage the UK-based Capita Symonds Consultancy to implement four additional areas which are critical to building the institutional capacity of the Guyana Police Force.”

He added that it should be noted that the move by the Opposition to challenge in Court the disbursement of resources from the IDB Security Sector Loan will again stymie the implementation of plans for the achievement of the primary objective of providing comprehensive citizen security for all Guyanese.

Further it was stated that the recommendations of the Disciplined Services Commission are being implemented as recent presentations by the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire Service, and the Guyana Prison Service gave status

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee updates on the progress each agency is making towards the full realisation of those recommendations.

The Progress Report was circulated to Members of the National Assembly in June 2014.

“David Granger is entitled to his opinion, but not to his own facts in this matter. It is therefore disingenuous for him to pontificate and attempt to pronounce on any of the above issues in the manner that in which he is attempting to so do.”

12

President meets Indian officials as Guyana and India seek closer ties

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam (2nd left), Joint Secretary,(3rd from left) Ministry of External Affairs of India, Ms Riva Ganguly and Under Secretary Animes Choudhury, (left) in meeting with President Donald Ramotar. Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall is also in photo. resident Donald RaFunding for develop- tal opportunities between motar recently met mental projects such as the two nations. with the Indian High those undertaken by the InFollowing the meetCommissioner to Guy- dian Exim Bank, including ings, it was announced that ana, Venkatachalam Ma- the Specialty Hospital, road India would grant a line of halingam, Joint Secretary, projects and the Information credit of US$50Million for Ministry of External Affairs Technology (IT) sector was the East Bank Demerara of India, Riva Ganguly, and discussed.

Road expansion, as well Under Secretary Animes The meeting is a follow- US$8Million, to assist in the Choudhury, at the Presiden- up to President Ramotar’s acquisition of an ocean ferry tial Complex. state visit to India in January vessel.

The visit saw the presi- of this year. That visit saw The Indian Government dent and high-level del- the president, accompanied will also work with the Guyegation discussing ongoing by several government of- ana Government in a pilot cooperation and business ficials and business leaders, project on renewable energy, relations and investments in meeting with that country’s using a rice husk gassifier. the sectors of engineering, Prime Minister Narendra Further, the Indian Govand technology. The Presi- Modi and several of the ernment had taken the decident was joined by Legal country’s top business lead- sion that Guyana would be Affairs Minister Anil Nand- ers. Discussions during that the first country in which lall and Head of the Presi- trip focused on building they would establish an IT dential Secretariat Dr. Roger closer ties and enhancing centre, and that this would Luncheon. business, and developmen- be inaugurated very soon.

P

Capped health insurance coverage being considered for gov’t officials - President Ramotar

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n wake of recent revelations about large sums of money being used by government officials for medical procedures, President Donald Ramotar has confirmed that he has begun discussions with executives of the ruling party, as well as the Cabinet, for a new system of financial assistance for medical purposes. “…This will be capped in the future. It will not be allowed to have an unlimited charge on the treasury. I’m planning to move toward a health insurance system, so that I can limit the exposure on the treasury for many of these health benefits.”

The Head of State noted that it was unfortunate that only the bills of some senior government functionaries were released, when many other persons continue to benefit from the current scheme.

President Ramotar pointed out that persons, including members of the opposition parties and persons who are not supportive of the government have benefitted from this scheme over the years.

“We spent millions on people who have not been supportive of the party.

We have given assistance right across the board. It is not limited to government ministers…”

Further, the President

said one should look at the motive behind bringing this issue to the fore as he noted that it is a move to suggest that only government officials are benefitting.

He added that at almost every Cabinet meeting, requests are granted for financing of medical treatment from persons across the country and many have been approved.

However in going forward, once the discussions and consultations are held, a technical team will work out the new mechanism of how persons can access this kind of assistance in the future to ensure that there is a limit to what is given to persons in need.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

PPP/C Gov’t has created a level playing field for local and foreign investors - President

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ver recent times, there has been an attack on investors by the combined opposition, particularly Chinese investors, but the concessions granted to this set of investors are no more than what are given to other foreign investors.

This is according to President Donald Ramotar, who has underscored that all investors, local and foreign, are critical to Guyana’s development. The Head of State, in a recent interview, said there is a level playing field for all foreign and local investors.

“Particularly, Chinese investments are targeted and being criticised, let me say that we have not given any Chinese company one more benefit or one more priority than that we have given to any foreign company which comes to this country.”

Unicomer, parent company of Courts Guyana's Distribution Centre at Eccles I don’t know why, because these types of investments the Chinese are now one of continue to create jobs for the most important devel- Guyanese and propel Guyopmental partners for many ana into a modern state. countries in Latin America However, even in the and the Caribbean. It is the face of these attacks, invesChinese investors who are tors continue to show confibringing in the capital than dence in the local economy, probably any other country as more businesses are exat this point in time.” panding, and new busiPresident Ramotar add- nesses are coming to every ed that the criticisms and region in Guyana. comments coming from the As of March 11, the opposition parties, about Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated’s (BCGI’s), a subsidiary of the Russian company, RUSAL has invested over $4.6B in a mine, located immediately adjacent to the Berbice River. Surrounding communities stand to benefit as hundreds of Guyanese are currently being employed by the company.

In the recent past, several investments have Republic Bank Branch, D'Edward Village, evolved, both local and West Coast Berbice international. Among these are Popeye’s launching of a President Ramotar reiterated that there is one pol- Chinese investors, all fall new branch in the vicinity icy for all investors as he into their pattern of what of the Stabroek market; the debunked suggestions that they have been playing out Caribbean’s largest conglomerate formerly Neal certain groups of investors in the 10th Parliament. “ I don’t know if this and Massy, now Massy, enjoy more benefits than attack falls into the gen- investing some US$ 10M others. “… The impression is eral pattern of what I have into a distribution centre at being created differently had to deal with over the Montrose, East Coast Demin our society by the spin last three years, of the op- erara, Unicomer, the parent doctors in Guyana, there is position’s effort, trying to company of Courts, injectabsolutely no extra benefit frustrate any kind of de- ing US$6M in a distribugiven to (Chinese) inves- velopmental initiatives to tion centre at Eccles, East tors. All (investors) have prevent them from taking Bank Demerara, Republic place…this seems to be Bank’s opening of a new the same benefit.”

Pointing to other com- geared in that direction, to branch at D’Edward Vilpanies, including those try to discourage invest- lage, West Coast Berbice, at a cost of $508M, and the from Canada, Australia, ment in our country.”

The president also Guyana Bank For Trade and the United States of America, the president re- called on citizens not to and Industry’s injecting iterated that they all have fall into this thinking, as 60M into a branch in Barbenefited from the same they must become aware tica, Region Seven.

Additionally, numerous concessions given to the that Guyana’s further development depends on all businesses have opened Chinese.

“It is totally untrue, the investments, both local their doors in the city and attacks against the Chinese, and foreign. It is a fact that across the country.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

13

Opposition’s non support for AML legislation leads to investor pulling out of Marriott’s Casino

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he Marriott Hotel’s Casino, which was initially set to be operated by ACE Square Investments Ltd., will now be under the hotel’s management. This change in management came after the company opted not to operate the casino, due to the risk of being both joint casino investor and operator, in a country where the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) legislation is not in place.

During a press conference at the Mazaruni room in the Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Chairman of Atlantic Hotels Inc., (AHI) Winston Brassington, noted that it is the opposition’s constant non-support and blockage that have contributed to several obstacles, affecting the progress of this project.

“That opposition leaders have used a pliant and often a biased media as a convenient platform to denigrate the viability of the project, in an effort to subvert foreign and local private investor interest,” Brassington said.

“In fact, we had a plethora of opposition statements eagerly headlined in our media, all grossly irresponsible and unfounded, claiming, for instance, that “no feasibility study had been done to support the project”, that “the hotel project is a shady deal for the benefit of the government’s friends”, “Marriott

Chairman of Atlantic Hotel Inc., Winston Brassington addressing the media at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston is a brazen corrupt exercise” and even that “Guyana was never on the radar for a Marriott franchise”, he said.

In his response to why Marriott chose to manage the casino in the absence of the legislation and ACE, Brassington pointed out that the Marriott is a more renowned brand, and as such may not be subjected to criticisms of money laundering and can afford to take the risk, whereas ACE is a company that is operating in the other hemisphere and may stand to lose more if it takes the risk.

He also added that the Marriott, in recent years, has successfully operated a number of casinos in other countries, such as Aruba.

Opposition’s non-support

Touching on other areas in which the opposition’s actions have impacted negatively on this project, Brassington said that “Despite the substantial information being made available to the parliament in early 2012, and the comprehensive response given to a question by Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, and a public debate under a government series on corruption... the opposition parties still sought to stop the project.”

He pointed to a motion that was submitted by then leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Ramjattan in August 2012, which saw the parliament, on December 17, 2012 pass a motion seeking to halt the financing of the project.

He added that again in September 2013, Ramjattan happily advised the private investor that “the combined opposition

had passed a motion in parliament stopping the project”, and again in October of the same year, APNU member Joseph Harmon boasted that his party “may not honour any commitments made by the principals here.”

He said “Stabroek News’ running of a headline, ‘APNU warns Marriott financiers’ prompted the Private Sector Commission, in October that year, to express its concern at the repeated threats against

the country as a whole,” he reiterated. In May last year, Harmon described the investment as almost like “a choke -and- rob scenario.”

Brassington also acknowledged that “since we established Atlantic Hotel Inc., an unremitting message of hostility has flowed from the opposition and from those congenitally opposed to the project. All this, despite the transparent process and information provided at each phase of the project’s development.

remain the same today.

They have always been transparent.”

Difficulty finding private investors It is precisely this behaviour on the part of the opposition and which has made attracting a major private investor for the hotel so difficult, Brassington stated. “We still have Mr. Moses Nagamootoo’s declaring that the hotel “has something to hide” and “is not interested in partner-

Media operatives present at the press conference at the Mazaruni room in the Marriott Hotel investors.”

Further, “The political leaders of both APNU and AFC have consistently made public statements, all quite hostile to private investors in the hotel; these with the express purpose of undermining investor confidence in the project, if not

The terms and conditions of the financing for the investment and the incentives offered were always a matter of public record and were represented in parliament since early 2012 by the Honourable Minister of Finance. They have not changed since. They

ing with experienced and transparent investors” and the opposition’s threatening to dishonour, should they get into office, internationally binding investor agreements. All of this clearly intended to have the investors walk away,” he strongly added.

Gov’t rejects claims of state resources being used for elections campaign

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ead of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon has rejected claims that that state resources are being utilised for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s campaign for the upcoming General and Regional Elections.

Speaking to the media at his weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, he stated that, “The People’s Progressive Party’s insistence is noted. Let us indeed substantiate these claims with specific instances when such is established.”

He added that the administration’s position is unequivocal. “We do not support, there is no policy whatsoever for the People’s Progressive Party administration to dishonour the law and to use public funds for partisan political interests.”

Dr. Luncheon noted that the various allegations, accusing government of doing such “continue nonetheless”. He added that the government’s task is rather simple, “Produce, we investigate and confirm whether

it is indeed so, yes or no”.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, such allegations have been made since 1992, when the current administration took office, but there has never been any proof offered to substantiate such claims.

Meanwhile, the HPS announced that the government has dispatched letters, inviting several countries and internationally recognised groups, to officially observe the upcoming General and Regional Elections on May 11.

Dr. Roger Luncheon, indicated that this followed the “dispatch of letters” notifying the said countries and groups of the pending elections following the decision to prorogue the 10th Parliament. The announcement of the May 11th date for election then saw letters of invitations being sent to the same bodies and the international community to participate in observing the elections.

Formal invitations have been extended to the governments of India and

South Africa and others “habitually written to,” said Dr. Luncheon. These include the United Nations (UN), Caribbean Community (Caricom), the Organisation of American States (OAS), Commonwealth, Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), the Carter Center, the United Kingdom branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

As part of these preparations, a visiting UN team of electoral officials

recently concluded a visit to Guyana, after meeting with government officials, opposition political parties and several other stakeholders.

It is anticipated that observer missions from Caricom, OAS and the Commonwealth, will be making their presence felt “long before the actual E-Day,” according to the Cabinet Secretary. The plan is to have the missions begin the monitoring process, for an extended period prior to and after the elections.

14

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Solar energy project … a constructive initiative for hinterland communities T welve-year old hinterland resident, Silvie Henry was elated, when for the first time she realised that she didn’t have to find an excuse to tell her teacher why she was unable to do her homework!

She always wished to become a teacher, but could not study at nights.

There was no electricity.

She was happy because she was being afforded the opportunity to study to achieve her dream. This can now become a reality as her family recently received solar panel, compliments of the government.

When the Government launched its Hinterland Electrification Programme, it was done with a vision to take reliable energy supply to remote parts of Guyana, more so to bridge the gap between with coastlanders and Guyana’s indigenous people.

Since its introduction in 2005, numerous Amerindian communities are now benefitting from solar powered energy to their homes, and already the beneficiaries are seeing tangible results. Scores of

Children of Arau, Region Seven doing homework at night. This was made possible through the provision of solar panels by the Government months, residents of Monkey Mountain have been enjoying the benefits of solar energy.

In that community, 140 households have benefitted from this initiative, which has provided much needed relief.

Other residents said they are seeing improved grades from their school age children while the electricity is assisting in their own productivity.

Increase in productivity This community depends heavily on farming and in some, instances gold mining, however, most of the women said having the

Solar powered water system in Region Nine communities in Regions, One, Seven, Eight, Nine, and Ten have benefitted from this initiative.

During a recent visit to Monkey Mountain and Campbelltown, Region Eight, it was more than evident that the residents welcome the initiative.

For decades, many of the beneficiaries knew nothing other than ‘flambo’, torchlight and in a few instances, mini generator sets, which carried a very high fuel cost, attached to it.

Now just over three

solar panels has now increased productivity as they are now able to work late hours into the night to make cassava bread and spin cotton.

In the past, these trades were only conducted in the day, and now, being provided with the wherewithal to work at nights, most of the women said they are able to give more support to their male partners in the farmlands during the day. Further, this initiative at it initial stage, provided jobs for persons in the

community.

As has been the case in every other community where the project has been established, Community Support Officers (CSOs) and other youths were trained for the setting and maintenance of these solar panels. These persons also received a stipend for their work.

Moreover, the maintenance of these panels is of equal importance to the Office of the Hinterland Electrification Programme.

It is for this reason each community was asked to set up a system whereby each beneficiary would pay a monthly fee of $500 to their Village Council.

This money goes towards maintenance in the event a system develops problems. After a two-year period, this fee would increase by $100 and in instances where a unit is not functioning as it should; one of the persons trained is required to service that system.

Meanwhile several miles away in a quiet community called Campbelltown, which is, located a stone’s throw from Mahdia 98 households are also benefitting from the solar panel project.

According to the Toshao of that community, Ms. Marbell Thomas the feedback thus far is overwhelming as many of the beneficiaries are now having electricity in their homes for the first time in decades.

Just four months of having the luxury of elec-

tricity to their homes, residents confess that it brings a whole new meaning to life and their day to day activities.

In the past residents, said at nightfall the only option was to turn into bed early, while now they can enjoy family time with children while assisting with school work.

Women get to put in a little extra work making their cassava bread, which is a main course meal for many households.

This initiative also allows the beneficiaries to enjoy a little more spend-

much to their delight and satisfaction.

Children of Arau, Region Seven doing homework at night. This was made possible through the provision of solar panels by the Government Further, these are the sentiments of parents of many other communities in Regions Seven, Eight and Nine all of whom have benefitted from this solar panel initiative.

In Region Nine communities which have benefitted from this initiative include, Shulinab, Meriwau, Potarinau, Shea,

Solar panels on the Wapishana Language Institute, Region Nine ing as the money they once spent on kerosene to light their ‘flambo’ now goes to other much needed items in and around the home.

Tangible Benefits Teachers of both the nursery and primary school in the Monkey Mountain and Campbelltown areas have all reported that there has been a dramatic increase in the children’s performance in school.

This is owing to the fact that the students are able to put in extra studies at night under the light of energy saving bulbs. In the past, this was something unheard of in this community.

Homework was done either at day light and in some instances never done and the most common excuse was always “we don’t have light’. Parents of school age children have also shared similar sentiments as they too are getting positive feedback from teachers about their children’s performance,

Parishara, Hiowa, Semonie, Katoka, Yupukari, Kaicumbay, Nappi, and Quatata.

In Region Eight, places including, Kato, Kurukabaru, Waipa, Bamboo Creek, Micobie, Chiung Mouth, Karisparu, and Kamana, are just a few communities that have benefitted.

Meanwhile each package distributed thus far included a Photo-Voltaic Panel, a 6A-12V DC charge controller, a 67 Ah -12V deep cycle gelled electrolyte battery fitted with suitable terminals,

sunlight resistant cable, 10 A, 1-pole DC circuit breaker, 9W-12VDC compact fluorescent lamps and a DC lightning arrester, with a unit cost of US$241.

Larger panels have been fitted in primary schools and health centres.

Improving energy access is recognised as a key area for expanding access to affordable, clean energy which plays a crucial role in realising the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and achieving the objectives of sustainable development under Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy.

As the project unfolded it also saw the provision of a mini-grid at Mahdia and Port Kaituma and the revamping of the grid work at Lethem.

Some of the pilot installations were of 339 solar PV systems of 125w in group three communities where the populations were less than 1,000 persons.

There was also the installation of 2 grid ties 5kw on the hospitals of Port Kaituma and Mahdia.

Mini grids were installed in those communities.

Additionally, in Orealla-Siparuta, Moraikobai and St. Cuthbert’s Mission, technical feasibility using small grids is being tested.

Other projects include the upgrade of the Lethem distribution network and the installation of 1390 PV 65w systems in 17 villages.

Only recently, Government announced that another 6000 solar panels would be distributed to families across the country.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

15

Tourism Momentum Thriving

Tourism and Technology Tourist Arrivals Up by 7.1% “G uyana: South America Undiscovered ” The Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) has launched a new ‘website and booking engine’ which is expected to bolster the destination’s tourism industry.

The implementation of the technology allows hotels, and accommodation providers in Guyana to use the booking engine on the website of the association; it has the capacity to attract a much higher volume of bookings through the various channels that are available.

“The Hon. Tourism Minister, Irfaan Ali, firmly believes that embracing digital communication and information technology is no longer an option

These two ladies browsing the new exploreguyana.org website ….but a necessity. ICT is indispensable to travel and tourism... Minister is proud of these initiatives which would definitely help to boost destination awareness, image, visibility, competitiveness and accessibility; drive online bookings and sales and contribute to tourism prod-

uct development and marketing of Guyana, South America Undiscovered,” commented Indranauth Haralsingh, Director of Tourism in Guyana.

He noted too that while implementation allows initially for hotel bookings, it would later be expanded to tours and packages, air-

lines, restaurants and other services.

Haralsingh also assured that the GTA would be promoting the booking engine and on their website.

In closing, he said, “In the age of technology the tourism industry is adopting a third T making it ‘Travel, Tourism and Technology’ The Ministry and the GTA are proud of its collaboration and partnership with THAG and will continue collaborate to lead, facilitate and drive tourism development.”

Meanwhile the President THAG, Mr. Shaun Mc Grath explained that the Booking Engine is implemented by Regatta and will bring about a change in online sales and marketing strategy

Sizzling Easter Celebrations Approaching

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he Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority are encouraging everyone to join in the stream of activities planned for the coming months, whether your preference is basking on the beaches of a secluded resort, joining the revelers in the street parades, trekking through the jungles, making your way to Kaieteur Falls or soaking up the scenery.

March 27th-29th gives way for the highly anticipated Wedding Expo at Roraima Duke Lodge. Over the years, the annual Wedding Expo has proven to be a highly successful event.

The event continues to grow and provides a wide range of wedding specific information from planning, catering, entertainment, transportation and clothing! Everything you need to know about getting married in Guyana and celebrating your honeymoon in paradise can be found at the Wedding Expo.

The annual North Pakaraima Mountain Safari will be staged between March 29th and April 5th.

Dubbed the ‘adventure of a lifetime’, this journey , via 4x4 vehicles, of more than 600 miles winds through 25 Amerindian Villages, be-

tween mountain passes and over mountain tops to the amazing Orinduik Water Falls. This frontier is blessed with a wide range of flora and fauna and the rich history of our indigenous peoples. This Mountain Safari is organised

by Rainforest Tours.

The culmination of the Safari coincides with the annual Rupununi Rodeo, held in Lethem, Region 9 from April 4th-5th. While here, visitors will have the opportunity to see cowboys from the various ranches pit their skills against each another in friendly competitions. With its origins in the 1960's, the event has gained national and international reputation, drawing increasing spectators and participants from around the world. It is a historical tradition and a

celebration of the cowboy lifestyle that Guyana’s Rupununi Savannahs are renowned for.

The Easter Weekend Celebrations commence with Good Friday observances on April 3rd and stretches to Easter Monday, April 6th.

Picnicking, kite flying and general enjoyment are all components of the annual Easter festival in Guyana.

In Georgetown, the Botanical Gardens, and National Park and along the sea wall families gather to celebrate together. Every year, these areas are hot spots for Easter activities; here you can see thousands of kites of all colours, sizes, and shapes fill the air as adults and children alike hoist them high. In other parts of the country such as in Berbice, residents and

people from the coastland area travel to the #63 Beach to engage in a fun filled day of picnicking and even participating in the kite flying competition organised by the Ministry of Tourism. Easter is celebrated in grand style in Guyana.

According to the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Irfaan Ali, this period is opportune for Guyanese at home and abroad and for visitors to explore all the country has to offer. “The opportunity is at hand. More than any other time in history, more airlines are flying to Guyana making it easier and more affordable for anyone to visit the destination .We also advocate for more domestic tourism and for more Guyanese to travel the length and breadth of their country.

We are encouraging persons to come to Guyana in 2015, visit these places, experience local culture, and seize the opportunity to get to know Guyana, South America Undiscovered,” Minister Ali encouraged.

Several major carriers currently service the North American route including Caribbean Airlines, COPA, Suriname Airways, Insel Air, Dynamic Ariways and Fly Jamaica.

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Tourists arrive at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri

roof that ‘Guyana – South America Undiscovered is fast becoming the destination of choice for visitors the world over, the Ministry of Tourism has reported 7.1% increase in arrivals over the same period (January-February) in 2014.

The current year-to-date (January to February) summary indicates that visitor arrivals increased by 7.1% with a total of twenty seven thousand nine hundred and four (27, 904) visitors compared to twenty six thousand and sixty five (26, 065) for the same period in 2014.

“It is clear that the country’s interest in tourism is very aggressive at this moment. This steady increase is testimony to the continued investment in the country’s Tourism Sector and the aggressive marketing strategies used,” Tourism Industry and Commerce Minister, Irfaan Ali explained.

The Unites States (US) remained at the top market with 36.4% of the total tourist arrivals during the first two months of this year, while visitors from South America has increased and accounts for 16.2% of the total market share.

Minister Ali was quick to point out that these figures are as a direct result of COPA and CONVIASA flying to Guyana.

He explained, “This is a testimony to the Government’s ability to improve airlift and to attract new airlines to the destination. In addition, our continued investments in trade shows, Familiarisation trips, films and documentary groups, travel writers and PR have contributed substantially to the development of the tourism sector.”

Minister Ali reaffirmed his view that the tourism sector is the backbone of the future economic growth and development of Guyana and also urged the Private Sector to take advantage of this influx and to devise strategies to lure the visitors to their restaurants, hotels, and resorts Over the last few months, several film and documentary crews have concluded filming in Guyana and several more are slated to arrive, the destination welcomed its first cruise visit for 2015 in January while several major events have already been staged.

Tourists arrive in Berbice from Suriname

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed�

Region Six, East Berbice/Corentyne‌ No more the Ancient County Home to more than 140,000 Guyanese, modern amenities such has a state-of -the art hospital, an ophthalmology centre and a modern bridge linking New Amsterdam and Rosignol, the once ancient county, has been transformed into a modern geographical region.

Skeldon Sugar Factory This US$180M plant project covered a new sugar factory, extension and modernisation of the existing sugar estate, civil engineering design and construction, design and supply of equipment for the factory and installation of factory equipment.

Number 56 rice seed facility This facility is in operation and is providing quality seed paddy to farmers. Rice is a major crop in Region Six; hence the facility is proving very useful.

National Ophthalmology Hospital This hospital in Port Mourant offers an entire range of services free of cost to Guyanese and individuals from neighbouring countries. It has the capacity to conduct 10,000 eye surgeries per year.

New Amsterdam Regional Hospital.

This US$13.2M hospital was constructed to provide residents with modern, affordable health care. The facility replaced an old hospital, built in 1884, that overtime, was unable to fulfill the role of providing the necessities of the main hospital of Region Six.

Fort Canje Hospital Extension The Acute Care patient building is an extension to the Fort Canje hospital. It caters for mentally challenged patients who stay in.

Rose Hall Pump Station The $37 million pump station at Rose Hall, Berbice, serves that and several other surrounding communities, boosting drainage and irrigation capacity. It replaced one that was out of operation for several years, and which resulted in numerous problems affecting farmers and other residents.

University of Guyana-(UG) Tain Campus This facility was established to provide quality tertiary-level education to Berbicians and those resolved to expanding their intellectual and social experiences. During its early stages, it offered two-year undergraduate certificate programmes in education and diploma programmes. Degree programmes were subsequently offered.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

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Lower Corentyne Secondary School Extension This new annex has made learning for secondary students more comfortable and conducive.

New Amsterdam to Moleson Creek Highway Upgrading of this New Amsterdam roadway has provided enhanced transport access for the region’s people and agricultural communities.

Glasgow Nursery School This new nursery school at Glasgow on the East Bank Berbice accommodates 120 children.

Students Hostel The Students’ Hostel at Springland is serving the students of the Amerindian communities of Orealla and Siparuta.

Corriverton Water Treatment Plant.

About 12,000 residents from Number 74 Village to Line Path are recipients of treated water supplied by this $1.6B water treatment plant built at Queenstown, Coriverton.

Black Bush Polder road The 36-kilometre, $400M Black Bush Polder road and the erection of bridges and culverts have been ensuring farmers easier egress and ingress to their farmlands. Black Bush Polder is one of the main vegetable growing areas in Guyana

Port Mourant Market This market serves vendors from Black Bush Polder to the No 19 area. It is considered to be the biggest Saturday market in the Region

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Berbice Bridge…linking counties, creating opportunities

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tanding testimony to the years of successful progressive governance that has characterised the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Government are its investment and realisation of that very crucial infrastructure that is now providing ‘real time’ travel across the Berbice River.

Yes, it is worth repeating, although this may sound like a broken record, but that bridge across the Berbice River, one of the most successful public-private partnership ventures, has been transformative.

The impacts of this infrastructure on the socio-economic livelihoods of people, not only from Berbice, but from other parts of the country as well, have been overwhelming.

Indeed, because of this infrastructure, Guyanese no longer have to worry about living in Berbice. No longer are they concerned with the fact that the ferry ride takes about an hour across the river, and if that ferry broke down (often that was a feat) that they would have been stranded for hours, waiting to cross.

Today instead, many Guyanese are enjoying the freedom of taking their own vehicles, across the river and at their own time and convenience.

Certainly, the volume of traffic that the bridge accommodates, on a daily ba-

be exported to neighbouring Suriname.

Patients in need of urgent medical attention and had to be transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) had no choice but to wait in an ambulance or a vehicle to be ferried across to West Berbice. People travelling to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri had to literally leave their homes many hours in advance to line up at the stelling and sometimes still miss their flights.

It would be of no benefit to harp on the challenges of the past, but it is often forgotten how difficult it was before the Berbice bridge came into operation because Guyanese have now grown accustomed to the much improved ser-

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bridge. “You do not have to wait a long line to get over to the other shore. When we had the boat, you had a long waiting, especially if you were moving with your own transportation. I mean, if you are travelling on your own, without a vehicle it is easier for you to wait and catch the boat, but now with the bridge it is easy.

You just come up with a car or bus and you just come straight across. No Hassle.”

H.M Sugrim, owner of Guyana Tractor & Equipment, spoke of the ease of travel when compared with what obtained prior to the advent of the bridge.

“Compared with the ferry service, this bridge is better because I could get up 5 am in the morning and by 7 am, done be in

A view of the Berbice River Bridge from the river sis, can be considered epic, welcoming more foreign in- ticular, use to bear the brunt compared with the propor- vestment, the bridge across of the ferry system; since tion that the ferry service the Berbice River was the only a few trucks, dependcould have shuttled across type of infrastructure defi- ing on their weight, were the river. nitely needed and in that allowed to board the ferry regard the PPP/C should per trip. As a result, truckIn line with Guyana’s be lauded for transforming ers were forced to park rapid transformation the vision into reality, fol- and wait at the stelling for Yes, for years, prior to the lowing years of persistence hours, sometimes even Berbice River Bridge, com- by Government, the private days, before they could get muting to and from Region sector and other entities. a chance to cross the river.

Six was dependent on the Guyanese welcomed This saw many of them slow and almost decrepit this vital infrastructural in- suffering severe losses, esferry. However, with Guy- put, on December 23, 2008 ana’s rapid transformation, and soon its contribution this old ferry system could was evident. not have met the demands Quickly noted, was the of increasing vehicular traf- time it takes to get across fic, seeking access across the river by the bridge the river. compared to the burdenEfforts therefore began some and arduous waiting at charting faster and more time that commuters had to efficient access across the inevitably endure with the river, and thus bridging ferry service. Now it is posof the Berbice River was sible to make at least two quickly seen as the most trips a day from the city to logical response and one Berbice. with additional benefits: Millions of dollars, improving the link between which prior to the bridge, Regions Five and Six; and were lost on waiting time, opening up new business are now being used by opportunities for the thou- commuters and drivers to sands of Guyanese. enhance production and Berbice River Bridge toll station For a country that was productivity of businesses. growing economically and Truck operators in par- pecially if they were trans- vices that the government Georgetown, before time, provides. on the ferry, you had to line porting perishables.

Compared with the old up at the stelling for 9 pm With the advent of the system, the Berbice River and 6 am in the morning, bridge, these struggles are Bridge makes travelling and then you are crossing.” nothing but a faded memfaster, easier and also alBusinessman, Shabeer ory now; truckers from the lows for more frequency Baksh noted that the infraCorentyne make two to of travel.

And this is the structure is a positive thing three trips per day and still reality of the impact of the for the people, because acmake it back to their homes bridge across the Berbice cess to Region Six is fastin time to have dinner with River. er. “ We all know time is their families.

It used to take between money and getting across Marketing opportunithree and six hours to cross faster means that you can ties for the farming comthe Berbice River with the get things done, then go munity have now opened ferry, now it takes about back to Georgetown if you up significantly; farmers from Black Bush Polder three minutes to drive over like, comparing to the ferry it used to be a hold up...so can now take their produce the bridge. with the Bridge is someall the way to Bourda or No hassle! thing positive...it is also Stabroek markets, while Robert Moore, a resident of a positive for the persons those from Parika can take Region Six, has nothing but leaving Georgetown to go theirs to Moleson Creek to Berbice River Bridge linking Regions 5 and 6 good things to say about the do business in Suriname.”

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Rice cereal factory to create jobs for over President turns sod for facility at 200 Essequibians - Anna Regina

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ore than 200 jobs will be created for persons living along the Essequibo Coast in the near future with the establishment of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology’s (IAST) $100M rice cereal factory.

The rice cereal is branded ‘Morning Glory’.

Essequibians sampling the rice cereal Head of State, Donald Ramotar and other senior government functionaries today turned the sod at Anna Regina, Essequibo for the factory. The IAST also launched its latest line of local product, a nutrition bar at the ceremony.

President Ramotar lauded the initiative as he noted that this is a step in the right direction to add value to rice and rice

products.

“We are meeting today at a very happy and important occasion to launch the construction of a factory to produce in the first instance rice cereal, and the first step to add value to our product”.

Citing how important this initiative is for Guyana as a whole, President Ramotar pointed to the fact that Guyana being a rice producing country is fundamentally a price taker.

This is in spite of the fact that local rice production has grown tremendously over the years from 90,000 tons in 1990s to more than 600,000 tons today.

This figure, the President said, makes Guyana very big in its own context, but when compared to the world market, Guyana is just a small player.

“We therefore are price takers, we do not determine prices, we do not determine world prices, we take the price that the world has and that is why in order to ensure that we insulate ourselves from the external shocks that come about

when prices internally fall, it is important for us to add value to the products.”

He said, “This is one of the areas in which we can add value to our product and because this will be produced not from high quality rice, but this can be produced from the broken (rice) and still fetches a good price on the local and international market.”

Being optimistic about this project, President Ramotar said more business minds from the private sector should follow suit. “…And I hope it will serve as an example for the private sector to invest in other areas… (I) hope it will have a demonstration effect.”

The Head of State also took the time to assure the rice industry that his administration will always stand by it even amidst calls by the opposition for the administration to step away.

“I’m promising you now and, of the future that every PPP/C government will defend and uphold the rice industry so that we can get

a better quality of life from it.”

eventually be dealt with as the administration is

President Donald Ramotar holds aloft a box of the cereal ‘Morning Glory.’ Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture Alli Baksh looks on Meanwhile Commerce Minister, Irfaan Ali also hailed the project a success even in the face of criticisms by the opposition who said it was merely a dream. Ali said this sod turning clearly indicates that it is a dream that has come to pass, and even great world leaders had dreams which also materalised.

Noting his government’s confidence in this initiative, Minister Ali said he is sure that it will be a success story even though there will be some challenges, one of which is cheap electricity. He said this will

pushing ahead with plans for the Amaila Falls Hydro Project.

Giving some insight on the project was head of the IAST, Professor Suresh Narine. He said this initiative aims to produce food at the very basic level and most of the intended markets will be locally, the Caribbean and further afield.

“This means that what we produce must be of a very high quality and you know anybody can make a thing, it takes tremendous effort and effort of an entire community to make a good

thing, and that is what we have to focus on here now.”

This facility will have the initial capacity to process 2,000 tons of rice per year however; it is also being built in such a way that if the market that is being targeted grows it can easily be expanded.

According to Professor Narine, the plants in the factory have already been made in such a way that they can be expanded to utilise 30,000 tons of rice annually.

Upon completion the factory will employ some 105 persons who will work one shift and over a period of time a three- shift system will be introduced, thereby paving the way for more than 200 persons to be employed.

Within another four weeks, training of persons eligible to work in the factory will begin after which they will be presented with a food handler’s certificate so by the time the factory is completed there will be a trained and equipped work force to take up employment.

More jobs to be created for Lindeners-with upcoming projects

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inden and indeed Region 10 have had their fair share of development, under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), whose aim is to ensure that citizens receive the needed services to improve their lives.

The PPP/C Administration promised Lindeners that it will deliver jobs, and according to Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, the government has been so doing.

While highlighting some of the factors that have contributed to this development, Minister Edghill emphasised that the recently commissioned Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI) Kurubuka mine, located immediately adjoining to the Berbice River, will see several hundreds of direct jobs being created.

BCGI, a subsidiary of the Russian company, RUSAL has invested over $4.6Billion on the mine.

Surrounding communities stand to benefit as hundreds of Guyanese are currently employed by the company.

“BCGI will be providing 506 direct jobs, plus hundreds of other jobs, because people have to supply food, cleaning and other auxiliary services to the BCGI. From 2009 to 2014, BGCI invested close to US$98 million into the investment in Aroaima area,” Minister Edghill pointed out.

He further stated that while bauxite has been a major contributor of job creation, the forestry sector has also played its part.

To this end, the government has created the environment for foreign inves-

Minister in the Ministry of Finance Juan Edghill engaging residents of Linden tors to inject money in this area, so much so, that even the government’s worst critic, the Kaieteur News has highlighted the magnitude of what is taking place in the sector.

“Logs don’t fall by themselves; trucks don’t just drive by themselves, tractors and skidders and the boats don’t operate by themselves, all of those are jobs, and so when you

think about foreign investments and joint venture arrangements between locals and these partners who have provided financing and machinery, they have made significant investments in Region 10,” Minister Edghill explained.

However, he said that more jobs could have been created had other projects been on stream, for example, the wood processing

facility at Conception that was to be created by Bai Shan Lin, but a number of factors have contributed to its non completion.

“When we looked at the investment agreement of BCGI, Bai Shan Lin, the deep water harbour and the paving of the Linden/ Lethem road and how they will open up opportunities... once that road is open and there is a deep

water harbour, there have to be hotels, restaurants, service stations, personal care, and food supplies,” Minister Edghill stressed.

The minister emphasised that government is working to ensure that there is cooperation from all stakeholders to engender confidence, so that the necessary investments in Linden and Region 10 can be made.

While these projects have sought to create jobs for residents in the region, the communities themselves have also benefited, and are almost sharing the profits.

At Aroaima and Hururu, the bauxite company maintains the schools. In the case of Hururu, electricity is supplied to the residents and the community provides certain services in a trade of manner.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

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GPHC maternal unit to undergo massive $236M expansion

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sum total of $236M has been allocated for the remodelling and extension of the Maternity Ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC),

Khan gave an overview of the project, which, he pointed out, has the main aim of creating more bed space for the pre and postnatal wards.

Khan pointed out that

Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran presenting Minister of Human Services Jennifer Webster, with copies of Guyana’s MDG acceleration Framework (maternal health) as government strives to ensure its citizens benefit from a higher quality health care, through continuous investment in the development of health facilities.

At the sod turning ceremony for the project, GPHC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael

the project will see the addition of 60 new beds, and the remodelling of the ground floor to house training rooms, offices, a neonatal clinic and ‘doctors on call’ rooms, while the upper flat will contain two operating rooms, the birthing room and the Neonatal In-

tensive Care Unit (NICU).

He added that this project, which commenced on February 16, 2015, is expected to run for one year.

The CEO also noted that this project is a very important one, since the facility, at times becomes overcrowded, because of the fact that the GPHC not only covers a large catchment area, but also it is the country’s national referral hospital. By expanding its building, the facility will be able to provide a better quality of service.

In 2012, GPHC successfully delivered 5, 665 babies, while in 2013, 5,790 were delivered. In 2014, the hospital recorded a total of 6,085 babies.

Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, who along with Guyana’s First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar, had the honour of turning the sod for the project, as well as unveiling the plaque, said that “No woman should die giving life,” as he pointed out that Guyana has mourned the loss of a

few mothers, who died during child birth. However, the administration is trying its best to curb the issue.

He added that with the reduction of neonatal and maternal deaths, one can only assume that the administration “must be doing something good.”

Further, he noted that Guyana has a model vaccination programme, as he lauded the birthing attendants for their work at the ante-natal clinics across the country.

Meanwhile, Natasha Smith, a proud mother, shared her story of how the GPHC managed to save her, as well as her baby boy’s life. Dimitri Ethan Denheart, Smith’s son, was born at 28 weeks on October 11, 2011. This now healthy and bouncing three-year old, who has survived his twin, weighed just 800 grams at birth.

The tearful mother recalled how the facility helped to keep her son alive, through hard work and care. She added that at

First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar and Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran turn the sod to mark the beginning of the Maternity Ward expansion project. Chief Executive Officer of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Michael Khan looks on times, when she lost hope, er members of the health the nurses also reinstalled sector and staff of the her faith through inspiring hospital. words. After three months, The Health Ministry she was able to take her son continues to work towards home. achieving the United NaAlso present at the cer- tional Millennium Develemony, was Minister of opment Goals (MDG) 5 Human Services Jennifer which is reduce by three Webster, People’s Progres- quarters, between 1990 and sive Party Civic (PPP/C) 2015, the maternal mortalPrime Ministerial Can- ity ratio. didate Elisabeth Harper, Also in 2014, $22.6 Chief Medical Officer, Dr. million was allocated for Shamdeo Persaud, Pan- the establishment of maAmerican Health Organi- ternity waiting homes in staion (PAHO) country Lethem and Bartica to carepresentative Dr. William ter for antenatal high-risk Adu-Krow, along with oth- mothers.

Expanding into new marketsRice continues its move into bold new territories

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hile the rice industry continues to strengthen its private sector character, the Government of Guyana has been intensifying its facilitation of the industry. One of its facilitating mechanisms is opening up new markets for rice. The Government facilitates opening up new markets and then partners with the private sector to sustain and expand the market.

This model has proven successful and the rice market has grown impressively through the public-private partnership.

In 2014, Guyana exported 501,208 tons of rice.

This was a record export for Guyana. We added new destinations and expanded

Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

existing markets. We sell more to the Caribbean and Europe, the traditional markets. Within the European market, we have added new destinations. We continue to sustain the Venezuelan market which came into effect from 2009. In 2010, the Venezuelan market was 70% of local production.

In 2014, the Venezuelan market, which maintained its volume, was only about 31% of production.

But Guyana has also expanded in non-traditional markets. Countries like Belize, Panama, Nicaragua and Guatemala have been added to the export destinations for Guyana’s rice. As we speak, a larger market in North America, and new markets in Central America

and Africa are being finalized, with a potential to exceed 600,000 tons in 2015.

The African market represents a new horizon for an industry that has proven resilient and robust over the decades. Guyana is at present negotiating prices and quantities with at least four African countries. Draft contract has been prepared with at least one African country and payment arrangements are being discussed. Since these are new markets, the GRDB must ensure that there are reliable payment arrangements before we conclude any contract.

Africa today represents a Region with one of the largest importation of rice and Guyana is very excited

to enter the African market.

Markets such as the African rice market provides another facet in the growth of the Guyana rice industry and can become a further catalyst for growth. The rice industry, in fact, represents a pioneering entry for Guyana into the large African market for Guyana’s agricultural and other products.

The Guyana Government, therefore, sees the entry into Africa through rice as opening up new development vistas for our country.

The breaking of new grounds in 2014 when we exceeded export of 500,000 tons tells a story of an industry that has grown phenomenally over the decades.

Between 1957 and 1964, the PPP Government led

the industry and export increased from about 37,000 tons annually to reaching 100,000 tons for the first time in 1964. Between then and 1992, the PNC ran the country and the rice industry struggled to keep up production and by 1990 export fell to less than 70,000 tons. When the PPP took over, export climbed again and reached 200,000 tons for the first time in 1995.

Export reached 300,000 by 2010 and 500,000 tons in 2014. These are recordbreaking figures and underline the robust growth of the industry.

From a handful of countries that Guyana exported rice to before 2009, Guyana now exports commercial amounts to 32

countries and by the end of 2015, the number of countries to which Guyana exports its rice and paddy will grow to about 40 countries.

In addition, as Guyana develops value-added products, such as rice cereal and rice flour, the export market will change from exporting Guyana’s rice and paddy to exporting paddy, rice and other value-added products.

The Government actively seeks new markets for the rice industry and we allow the private sector to sustain and expand these markets. That is how a government facilitates a private sector business. The PPP sees this as a positive partnership.

Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Guiana Shield platform launched

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-will allow Guyana to grow in eco-region

he Guiana Shield Priority Setting Platform, also known as the GSPSP, has been launched in Guyana, and will help countries within the Guiana Shield, through satellite images, to focus on issues to save the Amazon forest. The countries will work through biodiversity, conservation initiatives, ecosystem services, socio-economics and natural resources.

Saving the Amazon forest is a priority of the countries within the Guiana Shield, and the launch of the GSPSP aims at focusing on issues to manage the forests and also in the interest of individual nations.

At the launch, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, noted that nationally, the facility has allowed Guyana to move forward as a country, and it also offers support to neighbours. In addition, it helps to determine how to develop a national monitoring report and interpretation system. He noted too that the facility presents an opportunity to have inter-governmental and inter agency cooperation, which, due to historical and other pressing realities, would not have been possible without it.

The GSPSP was launched on Tuesday, March 3 during a reception, held by Guyana’s Resident Representative of the United Nations Khadija Musa.

Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Robert Persaud noted that the Guiana Shield Facility presents an opportunity to have inter-governmental and inter-agency cooperation, which,

Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud and United Nations Resident Representative to Guyana, Khadija Musa and representatives of other countries press the button to launch the Guiana Shield Priority Setting Platform due to historical and other pressing realities, would not have been possible.

The GSPSP is the use of a combination of new continuous satellite observation techniques and ground information to advance transparency in ecosystem services provision and natural capital accounting. It is also a functional multi-stakeholder database that links information on biodiversity, conservation initiatives, ecosystem services, socioeconomics, natural resources, and development.

Representatives who were present for the launch came from countries which included Brazil, Columbia, Suriname and Venezuela, Whilst the facility has allowed countries to focus on this important priority, it will also allow Guyana to manage its forest in particular. Since the countries share a common ecoregion, the GSPSP will show that what hap-

pens in different territories also has an impact on what happens in others. This interdependence was brought out as a result of the functionality of the Guiana Shield Facility.

“Nationally the Guiana Shield Facility has allowed us to move forward as a country and also to offer support even to our neighbours and even beyond.

As to how it is we can develop a national monitoring report and interpretation system, it has allowed us also to advance our REDD+ preparedness, and also our other arrangements in terms of how we mobilise our forests, particularly in terms of dealing with mitigating effects of climate change,” Minister Persaud stated.

He however explained that it has provided a ring of support in terms of collaborating with intergovernmental agencies, and also utilising some of the multilateral agencies in this regard, in bring-

ing about the type of cooperation needed. He said, “… the countries that we have represented here, it is important that we recognise that there is a commonality, there is a shared interest, and that if we do not recognise that the Guiana Shield ecoregion is threatened by the inaction or the action of one, and if we do not give due attention to collaboration and coordination, we will be doing that at the peril of our individual status and our individual situation.”

Minister Persaud stated that there is much more need for this type of cooperation and type of facility, especially in the current global reality. He posited that the donor communities and other partners, which have historically supported the facility, will see the wisdom, strength and need for increased and enhanced support in this regard.

“In Guyana we stand ready to provide that …to showcase what it has brought to our country, as other countries can do here, but also to provide ourselves and to offer ourselves as a mechanism; how it is that this facility can grow and can serve as it were, that common interest and the common threat we face in terms of this ecoregion.”

Meanwhile, UN representative Khadija Musa noted that in terms of the bio-diversity work done by the Guiana Shield has achieved a lot. Musa noted that purpose of the workshop is to begin the drafting of the next phase to set the Guiana Shield Facility into the future. “The Amazon is one of the most important treasures of the world and we must do

everything we can to save it and make sure that it doesn’t lose as much as some other forests have lost,” she stated.

She also commended others present for all the work done in making the Guiana Shield a trade mark, as “without your devoted purpose in protecting the bio diversity of the region, we would not be here today,” she noted.

Musa welcomed representatives from the countries present who took part in launching the GSPSP. The network launched how information is delivered, whilst the website sees cooperation between different organisations within the shield. It also helps them to create nets and to record formulated plans with all users being able to cooperate at the local and regional levels.

During the third International Congress on Biodiversity of the Guiana Shield, August 2013 in Paramaribo, the GSPSP was discussed and it was found that there was no collaborative approach within the Guiana Shield ecoregion, to reach sustainable development. As such the congress created the right setting of researchers, research institutions, conservation organisations, and other stakeholders to set the basis which would enable collaborative efforts to achieve the common objective of development and sustainable use of natural resources. This led to the establishment of the GSPSP as the universal science-policy platform on the state of biodiversity and ecosystem services of the Guiana Shield ecoregion.

Successes of Government’s housing programme evident

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mpowering Guyanese, strengthening communities, creating employment and providing security of tenure remain top priorities for the Ministry of Housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), in addressing the housing needs of Guyanese.

Towards this goal, the Authority continues with its drive to construct more turnkey homes to provide

affordable housing solutions to more families; these projects are expected to open-up many possibilities to homeowners and to improve living conditions of citizens.

In the past, the Housing and Water Minister, Irfaan Ali pointed to the ‘real trickledown effect’ that the construction of the houses is having on the economies of the neighbouring communities where they are being constructed, notably

the avenues of employment created.

This year, the Housing Ministry is aiming to complete the construction of an additional 150 turnkey homes, at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara, taking into consideration the high number of applicants now requesting to be part of the project.

This affordable housing initiative was designed to provide homeowners with comfort, security and

Turn key homes at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara a healthy family life. in May 2014 and by De- skilled and semi-skilled The 1,000 Homes Pro- cember 2014 one hundred workers in the construction ject was launched in June (100) Buttercup Cottages industry.

2013, by the Central Hous- were completed; another Infrastructure for elecing and Planning Authority batch of 50 houses is cur- tricity and water are alto expand the Ministry’s rently under construction, ready in place and roads Turn-Key Houses pro- with a fourth batch to com- in the new community will gramme that recommenced mence shortly. This project boast asphaltic concrete in 2011. has provided employment surfaces once construction Construction began opportunities for over 300 is completed.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Hundreds turn out to celebrate work, life of Dr. Jagan at State House

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President Donald Ramotar addressing the large gathering on the lawns of State House

s has been the tradition, hundreds of persons turned up on March 15, at State House, to be a part of the fun day, which allowed families and friends to celebrate the life and work of the late president, Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

Those who attended the event were treated to live performances from the Shakti String Orchestra and several dance groups. In all corners of the State House’s lawns, children were seen enjoying the different rides, including, the bouncy castle, and the merry go-round.

Meanwhile Head of State, Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ra-

motar took time out interact with the gathering.

Among other dignitaries who attended the event were Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Clement Rohee, Prime Ministerial Candidate of the PPP/C Mrs. Elisabeth Harper and several other Members of Cabinet.

On the occasion, President Ramotar offered a few words of encouragement to the gathering, as he called on them to take this current period seriously. He noted that as Guyanese celebrate the life and work of Dr. Jagan, they should remain cognisant of the fact that it

is a very important time in Guyana’s history.

“The election that we are about to have on May 11 will be one of the most important elections ever fought in this country. It is so, because over the last three years, you’ve seen the attempts by the opposition to stymie every project, every developmental effort of the government.”

Speaking on some of the critical projects which the opposition stood in the way of, mention was made of the cuts to the national budgets, the Amaila Falls Hydro project, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion and the Specialty

Hospital.

These, the president said, show clearly that they do not have the country, and its people’s interest at heart, because many of these projects would have created highly paid jobs for thousands of Guyanese.

President Ramotar pointed out, that in spite of these frustrating moves by the opposition, the country’s economy grew by almost 5% every year for the past three years.

It is for these reasons he said that this election would determine a lot for the coun-

try and its people, as it was a similar coalition, which was formed in 1964 that caused total destruction for Guyana.

“On May 11, you have an important duty to ensure that our country will not go back, that our country will move forward, every single vote must be counted.”

The Head of State reminded the large gathering that this upcoming election is about the country’s future, the future of all citizens, and their children.

He also urged the constituents to play their role and be educated on every

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aspect of voting, so as to ensure that this time around, the incumbent government be returned to power as a majority government.

Other speakers included PPP/C General Secretary, Clement Rohee and the party's Prime Ministerial Candidate, Mrs. Elisabeth Harper.

This year marks the 18th death anniversary of the founder of the PPP/C Dr. Jagan, and the State House fun day has for years been one of activities held in the month of March to celebrate his life.

President Donald Ramotar taking a photo opportunity with patrons of the State House fun day

Guyana reaffirms commitment to forests and global climate agenda

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uyana’s delegation led by Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, and accompanied by technical staff of the Guyana Forestry Commission and the Office of the President, conducted a series several high level visits in Norway.

The goal of the mission was to exchange strategic views regarding the existing partnership between Guyana and Norway, and the global climate agenda and progress towards the Conference of Parties of the United National Framework Convention on Climate Change (CoP 21), planned for Paris in December this year.

Minister Persaud and Norwegian Minister of Climate and the Environment,

Tine Sundtoft meet in Oslo to advance discussions on climate and forests Among the main highlight of the Mission has been a meeting with Minister Sundtoft. At this meeting Minister Persaud expressed Guyana’s continued interest in ensuring that forests play an important role in the climate change solution, and the importance of REDD+ and climate financing to making those solutions possible.

Among other high level meetings were those held with the Director of NORAD (the Norwegian Agency for Development) Director General Villa Kullid, and State Secretary within the Ministry of Climate and the Environment in Norway, Mr. Lars An-

dreas Lunde.

Technical discussions sessions were also held with officials of Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative.

Minister Persaud during his two-day visit met with officials of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Secretariat and expressed Guyana’s commitment to advance the process recognising the importance that the Government of Guyana has placed on effective governance and transparency within the natural resources sector.

There were also several high level technical discussions on the second day at which Minister Persaud presented updates on Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy and

Ms. Pradeepa Bholanath - Head Planning and Development Division, GFC, Mr. Jonas Moberg - Head of EITI Secretariat, Hon. Robert , M. Persaud, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Mr. Kapil Mohabir Head, Project Management Office, Office of the President and Ms. Gisela Granados - Country Officer, EITI Secretariat, REDD+ programmes, the achievements and progress so far under the Guyana/ Norway Cooperation on Climate and Forests, and the challenges and remaining activities in moving forward on Guyana’s strategic agenda on forests and development.

These sessions were attended by Norwegian Government, development agencies, and civil society and provided an opportunity for Minister Persaud and the delegation to interact with a broad range

of leading civil society and environmental groups and address a range of matters pertaining to Guyana’s development focus, the LCDS and various projects under the LCDS. The mission concluded on a high note, with broad recognition that among Guyana’s significant achievements have been the development of a credible and robust Monitoring Reporting and Verification System for REDD+, advancements of several projects under the LCDS,

and concrete plans made for taking the next steps forward including in forest governance programmes such as EU Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative.

Minister Persaud was accompanied by Ms. Pradeepa Bholanath - Head Planning and Development Division, Guyana Forestry Commission and Mr. Kapil Mohabir - Head, Project Management Office, and Office of the President.

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Georgetown...and the efforts at enhancement L ooking around these days, there is no denying that the capital city, Georgetown, and its environs, look qualitatively different now than at any other period within recent years. There is a newness of aesthetics that is immediate to the eyes, and an absence of a disgusting pungency to the nostrils is palpably experienced. Why? It is only because of the decisive intervention of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Administration’s “Clean-Up My Country” initiative.

Indeed, since its commencement, this initiative has done much to transform a city that had become a national embarrassment, as over time it has been criminally neglected, almost buried beneath its own garbage pile.

Today, instead, for all intent and purposes, this intervention, has commenced the ‘long sought for’ return of the city, to its former

A city drain being cleaned who still owe millions of panies, became common dollars in taxes. place for the council. Those The point is that gov- times, when the council, ernment did not shelter unable to meet its financial behind the excuses that the obligations to the city’s City Council provided for garbage collectors, resulted not carrying out its man- in the companies withholddate. Government, over ing their services, governthe years (more so over the ment not only settled many past ten years), has been of these outstanding payploughing its own resourc- ments, but also during the es, into trying to improve strike, the Public Works the sanitation and environ- Ministry loaned the council mental conditions of the trucks, to collect and discity. Government’s effort pose of the city’s refuse. has not only been about The Public Works pouring resources on the is- Ministry also had supervisue, but has also seen a fo- sion over several periodic cus on getting residents to clean-up exercises for the city, including the $120M ‘City Enhancement’ project, which provided for the monies to be disbursed to the council, over a 12month period, for work programmes, aimed at restoring the capital city.

After initial success, this intervention was discontinued following the council’s failure to produce work programmes for further accessing of the money.

A clogged city canal being cleaned under a PubThe Public Works Minlic Works Ministry’s initiative in 2013 istry, as well was given glory. recognise that they are con- direct control over several Government has been tributors to the solid waste periodic interventions, ditrying, to bring about the situation that confronts the rected towards addressing kinds of change that were city, and therefore must the clean-up of the city’s needed to restore the city’s also be contributors to solv- cemetery, the last being a appearance, and has done ing the problem. $15M intervention, executso, mindful of the fact that ed about five years ago. there is a statutory body Bold initiatives The Ministry of Agri(the Mayor and City Coun- Over the years, several culture, through the Nacil of Georgetown), that ministries have assidu- tional Drainage and Irrigahas a legislative obligation ously sought to work by tion Authority (NDIA) has to deliver these sanitation themselves and with part- also contributed much to and environmental servic- ners towards addressing the effort; as it has, through es, including things such as the issue. The Ministry of its programmes, been dide-silting of drains, fixing Public Works, for instance, rectly targeting the cleanroads, and collecting and has been doing a lot of ing of the City’s waterway. transporting garbage. work, using government Then there were the But as all are aware, resources. most recent efforts by the more so, after the public Periodically, this min- Ministry of Natural Rerevelations, over the past istry has supported the sources and the Environthree years, the City Coun- council, by the loaning of ment that instead focus on cil has been limited in terms equipment for garbage col- behavioural change. The of resources, to execute lection, as were the cases, whole thrust of the ministhese services, because of in recent times, when strike try’s “Pick it Up Guyana” the fact that there are many actions, by garbage com- campaign was sensitisation

and awareness. The intention was for Guyanese to pick up by themselves, their garbage. And indeed, this campaign was successful in making solid waste a topic of conversation in Guyana, as the country was made very of aware of the issue, to the extent that some of the country’s partners and friends, from aboard came on board.

Further, recognising the weakness in the litter prevention regulation, the Natural Resources Ministry in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), implemented a new litter prevention regulation, patterned from those currently existing in several jurisdictions in CARICOM. Subsequent to all of these interventions, the ministry appointed litter wardens to enforce the provisions of the regulation.

budget, to clean the city and enlisted the support of support of citizens, businesses, and institutions, in mapping out a comprehensive plan that tackled the issue of the waste, and clogged drains and canals across the city. The main canals, leading to the sea and river, and that provide a number of communities with drainage, were weeded and de-silted.

Plaster Notwithstanding what government was doing, including supporting community groups, not only in terms of awareness, but also with resources and working within the school system to bring about behavioural change through children, things improved marginally. However, because of an increase in the volume of illegal vending and with that an increase in solid waste, the neglect of the market and an increase of illegal dumpsites around the city, try as government may, all it was doing was merely putting plaster on the wounds.

It was determined that a greater effort was needed to engender enhancement of the capital city.

Under this exercise, special attention was also placed on the city’s burial ground, with a focus on cleaning and de-silting all surrounding drains and canals. There were also the rebuilding and resurfacing of the internal roads, and the removal of the vegetation that had taken root among the graves and other sections, and the bees which had created hives.

Every community within the 10 wards of the city also benefitted from some aspects of cleaning, be it de-silting of the roadside drains, or alleyways, cleaning of the parapets or removal of garbage within the community.

Georgetown’s clean-up So, government put significant resources in the 2014

aesthetics of the country, and more so on the City; a whopping $500M catered for the intervention on the city. To this end, government, from the start, determined that the intervention must therefore be sustained over time. So importantly, the initiative as well covered putting the council in a position, where they can take over and play the important role they should

Garbage truck given to the MCC by Local Government Ministry

Sustenance The government’s “CleanUp My Country” initiative is one in which the most money was ever expended, at any one time, on the

Le Repentir cemetery which benefitted from the clean-up exercise

have been be playing, in maintaining the city and its environment, in a healthy respectable way.

In this regard, the City Council is being assisted with repairs to several of its machinery.

Meanwhile with another $500M that was allocated for the region’s clean-up, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils have been receiving bins, and tractor and trailers, to ensure the maintenance of public spaces.

Looking ahead Government’s goal is to get the country, more so Georgetown, back to the times when the people took pride in the way their community looked, and this is what government will continue to work towards. Future effort such as the passing of the Solid Waste Bill, in the National Assembly, is critical to creating a single entity in the country and that will be overlooking this particular area.

Currently, as well, government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is looking at proposals to have a recycling facility, as it has recognised that if people can put a value to waste, then it is likely to help its effort.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Local Gov’t Ministry concludes outreach in Region One

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inister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker, recently met and engaged with the residents of Matthews Ridge, Four Miles, Canal Bank, Citrus Grove, Oronoque, Arakaka, Sebai Village and Eclipse Falls, in the Matarkai sub Region of Region One. The meetings formed part of a local government three-day ministerial outreach to the Matarkai subdistrict, aimed at garnering the views, issues and concerns of the communities, thereby, enabling a proper response towards continued development, while simultaneously updating them with important recent developments in the country.

At the Matthews Ridge meeting, Minister Whittaker highlighted some of the development works that have been taking place in the hinterland, and the fact the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has been placing much emphasis on Amerindian development since 1992.

Prior to 1992, he said, the focus was on urban development, and today there has been a diversification, because like those dwellers on the coastland, the hinterland people also have needs. “And so, whereas before, this National Cake, that we call the National

Budget, was divided primarily among a specific group of people in the urban and to some extent the rural areas, now this cake is divided to include those in the hinterland…we were able to enlarge this cake; we were able, through prudent economic policies and programmes, to increase the size of this cake, so everyone can get a slice,” Minister Whittaker told the residents.

Region One, BarimaWaini, is one of the largest geographic regions, and as such, it brings to focus the government’s strong interventions, in the most profound way, to ensure the continued development of the residents and their communities.

However, the residents were reminded that development is a process. “There is no government in this world that can satisfy all the needs of its people at the same time, and this is why you plan and have a budget. There are some things you do today and some things you have to do tomorrow,” Minister Whittaker pointed out.

Referring to the Matthews Ridge/Baramita Road linkage, Minister Whittaker noted that for decades, the people of Baramita were isolated, and had to travel by foot for days to get to another village. This has changed with this link.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker being greeted by students of Canal Bank He also spoke about ernment is moving, through a community, as a Region home ownership and how the Ministry of Education, and as a country”. the government has im- to provide Secondary EduDuring the period proved the citizens’ access cation to all of secondary 2010 to 2013, the sum of to social services. school age in Guyana. $189.5M was invested in To address the housThe region also has four 57 villages and communiing needs in the region, 23 hospitals; Port Kaituma, ties, under the Presidential households in White Water Matthews Ridge, Moruca Grant programme, an inibenefited from new homes, and Mabaruma, and an- tiative which aims to build while 27 others had their other is under construction micro enterprises to generroofs refurbished under the at Port Kaituma. Health ate income.

Second Income Settlement hut/centres are also accesUnder the first phase Programme-LIS-2. Minis- sible to every community/ of the Community Develter Whittaker noted that the village. opment Projects (CDPs), establishment of additional “I’m not saying we eight villages from Region housing schemes has begun have reached the zenith of One benefited. Manawain Oronoque, White Water the development ladder; I rin’s venture was a cassava and Manawarin. am saying that you measure farm; Kamwatta and Three As it relates to Educa- progress in terms of what Brothers, aquaculture; Waition, Minister Whittaker has been achieved and the karebi, logging; Barabina, noted that two decades depth from which you start- poultry rearing; Hobodeia, ago, teachers had to come ed,” he noted. ginger farming; Four Miles, from the coast to teach the The Minister invited apiculture; and Baramita, a students in that region and residents to examine the village shop. students from the far-flung state of Guyana when the Capital investment inareas did not had access to PPP/C Government took cluded the provision of eco primary education. Today, over the mantle of leader- tourism grants while nuhe pointed out, every pri- ship in 1992 and the pro- merous villages also benmary age student has ac- gress they have made “in- efited from boats, tractors, cess to education and Gov- dividually, as a family, as and pick-ups.

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The Matarkai subregion, like every other region has received tremendous support from Government over the years, thereby, enabling the residents to enjoy much more comfortable lives.

Roads are a major concern in the region, especially since there is a large amount of mining activities, mainly at Matthews Ridge and Baramita, as well as a large influx of vehicles into some communities. To this end, Government has spent millions of dollars to maintain these key road linkages.

In the area of health, communities in the sub district now have health centres including a hospital at Port Kaituma. To further advance this critical service that usually causes residents to travel to Mabaruma, Government has invested in state-of-the-art hospital at Oronoque, Port Kaituma, for which construction is underway.

Each community also has access to a Nursery and Primary School; there is a Secondary School at Port Kaituma and a dormitory which accommodates students from afar.

Additionally, communities also benefit from transportation assistance for students and also for emergencies. The most recent beneficiary of such assistance was Baramita, which received a pickup.

Diamond Hospital gets new ambulance

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inister of Local Government and Regional Development Norman Whittaker has presented the keys of a new, fully equipped ambulance to Dr. Serena Bender of the Diamond Hospital.

Minister Whittaker stated that the investment is important and allows for mobility and the transfer of the patients. He urged that the hospital’s management and the drivers care the ambulance. If this is not done, he observed that rehabilitation costs would increase tremen-

The ambulance that was handed over to the Diamond Hospital

dously and further funds would have to be directed towards providing another ambulance.

The Minister pledged the assistance of his Ministry should they need it, adding that this would be done ‘within their means.”

The Minister urged the staff members to continue extending care to their patients, even as the residents in the surrounding communities are on the increase.

Dr. Bender thanked the Minister for the ambulance pointing out that it was well

appreciated. She assured him that the service at the hospital should improve once the ambulance begins its work.

The ambulance was catered for in the 2014 National Budget. The hospital previously had two ambulances and one crashed. Since the hospital serves from Moblissa to Georgetown the ambulance is needed.

Meanwhile, Minister Whittaker also handed over to Dr. Bender, a computer to be used by the Records Department of the Diamond Hospital.

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

13th Pakaraima Mountain Safari launched - set to depart on March 28

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he Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched the 13th annual Pakaraima Mountain Safari.

The safari is set to depart on March 28 from the GUYOIL Gas station, on Region Street. Thus far, 15 vehicles have been registered, along with several motorcycles and the exercise is still ongoing.

The safari is annually organised by the Ministry of Tourism and GTA, in collaboration with Rainforest Tours, the Regions Eight and Nine Administration and the Ministry of Local Government. It is sponsored by GUYOIL/ CASTROL, MMC, Massy

Distribution, GT&T, and for the first time, the Amazon Warrior Energy Drink.

The journey will see the safarians and their vehicles passing through rough lands in 11 Amerindian villages, including Karasabai, Monkey Mountain, Tiperu, Rukumoto and Orinduik among others. The participants will also overnight at some of these indigenous villages.

According to GTA’s Director Indranauth Haralsingh, this adventure, which will end on April 06, will also include trips to the Orinduik, Chiung and Echilibar waterfalls. The participants will be given the opportunity to attend the Lethem rodeo as well.

Also, all safarians are

required to have a fourwheel drive vehicle, that is in good condition, with winch and spare wheels, tow rope/tool kit, patching equipment and tools, gasoline and diesel containers, foot air-pump, fuel hose and fire extinguisher.They are also required to have proper camping equipment.

This is according to Yonette Sahibdeen, Secretary of the Safari Club.

Also present at the launching ceremony were reprsentatives of the various companies sponsoring the event. They all expressed their excitement and gratitude for being a part of the venture.

One representative from Guyoil pointed out that it is a privilege to be a part of

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Indranauth Haralsingh along with representatives of the companies supporting the 13th Pakaraima Mountain Safari the undertaking, as it provides the opportunity for the company to give back to the persons who support them throughout the year.

This activity also serves to benefit the Amerindian communities, as one trademark of the safari is that the convoy will seek to work in each community on a pro-

ject that will serve the residents for a lifetime. Apart from the convoy, there are also teams from the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Health which will travel with the convoy, conducting outreaches to the villages along the route.

It is also a norm for the safarians to take

presents for the children in the communities, as well as food items and other products for the residents during their trip.

International participants from Jamaica, Suriname, Germany, the United States and Trinidad & Tobago are also expected to join in the excitement.

Regional officials urged to prioritise infrastructure maintenance, sanitation -Region Six NDCs and Municipalities’ budgets approved

An NDC representative collects his council’s approved 2015 budget from Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker

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he Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development handed over the approved 2015 budgetary estimates for the 16 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and three municipalities in Region Six. The handing over ceremony was done on March 18 at the Hampshire Civic Centre and included representatives from the Enfield/ New Doe Park, Ordnance/ Fort Lands, Canefield/Enterprise, Kintyre/ No.37, Gibraltar/Fyrish, Kilcoy/ Hampshire, Port Mourant/

John, Bloomfield/Whim, Lancaster/Hogstye, Black Bush Polder, Good Hope/ No.51, Macedonia/Joppa, Bushlot/Adventure, Maida/Tarlogie, No. 52/ No. 74 and Crabwood Creek/ Moleson Creek NDCs, and the New Amsterdam, Rose Hall and Corriverton municipalities.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker during the hand-over ceremony, stressed on the need for more focus on infrastructural maintenance, sanitation improvements and other environmental is-

sues, so as to maintain the “Clean-up My Country” initiative, for which $1 Billion was expended by the government.

The ministry had requested that some changes be made to the budget, one of which was the addition of more funds, to embark on additional small projects that will have a direct impact on the lives of the people, including support for education, in the form of scholarships and awards for good performance.

“We cannot justify having huge increases in utility and telephone bills, electricity and transportation cost, meals and going

to meetings when there is no increase in resources available to deliver core services to the people, and I ask that resources be moved from some areas and be put towards infrastructural maintenance,” Minister Whittaker urged.

Under the clean up my country programme, the NDCs were provided with brush cutters and will be receiving tractors and trailers; hence, a further adjustment was made to include the maintenance and operation of these equipment.

Money was also added for the annual salary increase.

Minister Whittaker also emphasized the need for

municipalities to collect revenues, which will also support some of the works they are embarking on.

“The revenues figures that you quote must be based on what your asset registers…

Many NDCs and municipalities have not been able to achieve even as much as 50% of their planned programme of work… I would wish to see us reaching out to people to get them to pay what they owe,” Minister Whittaker told those gathered.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Permaul Armogan, stressed on the need for participation of the people in the prepara-

tion of the budget estimate.

Armogan noted that that if the budget is not prepared on the basis of the needs of the community, there will be difficulties in dealing with some of the projects that communities oppose.

“Sometimes we do projects that are way below the priority and some of the more important programmes we don’t look at them and the communities will react in a way that will not be beneficial to the good administration of the NDCs or Municipalities, and so the people are the most important part of preparation,” Armogan explained.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker and Regional Officials at the handing over of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and municipalities’ budget

28 graduate after Information Technology training

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

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- as Gov’t continues to strive for universal ICT literacy

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he Government continues to push Information Technology, with the aim of achieving Universal Information and Communication Technology (ICT) literacy. In this regard, 28 persons from Beterverwagting have graduated, after completing an ICT programme, which was conducted by the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).

According to course facilitator, Fitzroy Younge, the course saw participants’ exposure to computer introduction, Microsoft Office and Microsoft Office Word, Power Point, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, and Microsoft Output.

They were also educated on work ethics, basic Mathematics and English Language, and Sexual and Reproductive health.

The ceremony, held at House of Our Lady (St. Mary The Virgin Anglican Church) saw the presence of Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, who underscored the importance of ICT in the technologically advanced era.

Minister Singh stated that the modern world is being increasingly driven by technology, and government is committed to ensuring that every Guyanese citizen, throughout the length and breadth of Guyana, not only have access to laptops and ICT, but they must also

A very joyful participant receiving her certificate from Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni at the Basic Needs Trust Funds (BNTF), Beterverwagting ICT graduation ceremony be able to use it.

He recalled being at a The minister also previous graduation cerpointed out through this emony, where an elderly programme, many persons woman, a retired head can today access jobs, not- teacher, inspired him as he ing that some of the trainers told him about the benefits who are employed under that the programme had this BNTF initiative, were brought to her. His face lit once students of the very up as he told the gathering programme. that she told him that she Further, the sector is was able to email and Skyrapidly creating jobs and pe with her grandchildren over 300 young Guyanese across the world. are now able to secure jobs, The Finance Minister and as such, Qualfon is es- also promised that the protablishing a campus in Ec- gramme will be replicated cles, where more jobs will in other areas, and urged the be created, for approximate- students to continue to furly 4000 people, when it is at ther their studies. its maximum productivity rate.

Budget cuts Minister Singh also Dr. Singh who was remindpointed out that the sec- ed by one of the speakers tor is not confined to only of the budget cuts which young people, and charged hampered this programme, the older folks to get more pointed out that this is an involved in the programme, issue he has never spoken which could be of tremen- about at one of these gradudous benefit to them. ation ceremonies because,

they are not appropriate for a joyous occasion.

He however, added that the BNTF was one of the projects that were completely cut out of the budget by the opposition. He said that if one were to look at the media reportage and newspaper articles, almost on a daily basis, one will see the opposition saying “Jail Ashni,” or something of the sort, saying that he unlawfully spent state funds and that he should reimburse the monies.

Dr. Singh further noted that he did not unlawfully

were supposed to go to all these communities and say to the residents that government was unable to continue this programme because the opposition cut the money.

The minister added that he could not do that because his administration has the interest of its people at heart, and thus with guidance from the Attorney General and the Guyana Constitution, he took the actions he did. This statement was welcomed with cheers by the gathering, showing their support for his actions taken to restore the money.

Over the years, government has been providing the necessary infrastructure, making way for private investors, installing fiber optic cables and equipping ICT labs in and out of the school system, drafting legislation, making internet access more affordable, and ensuring all citizens have access to ICT in their homes, through the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) programme.

Under the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) initiative, thousands of Guyanese families benefitted from a laptop and relevant training

A section of the gathering at the at the Basic Needs Trust Funds (BNTF), Beterverwagting ICT graduation ceremony spend these monies, but acted with the constitution, and he prefers to hear a bit of noise from parliamentarians, rather than to disappoint thousands of Guyanese, and take away their chance at empowering themselves.

He then asked what choice he was given, if he

In 2013, the joint opposition used their one seat majority to cut the money allocated for this programme and again in 2014.

BNTF is a Government of Guyana programme and is responsible for implementing projects and providing infrastructure for capacity building.

to use the device.

In some instances, computer hubs have been established in hinterland communities, to power and promote the use of computers.

The students were given certificates of participation as this will enable them to secure jobs and further their education.

Building a Sustainable Furniture Industry in Guyana

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he Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) will be collaborating with the Caribbean Centre for Competitiveness (CCfC) of the University of the West Indies (UWI) to undertake phase two of a project titled: “Global Value Chain and Cluster Study of the Furniture Industry in Guyana.”

The CCfC will be

funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), Department of International Development (DFID) and the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development.

The project is aimed at working with Industry and regional governments to develop competitive strategies for sustainable development of targeted

industries through applied Cluster and Value Chain Initiatives.

The ultimate objective is to define profitable business segments within which local industries can improve their global competitiveness through the use of Industry Clusters and improved positioning in Global Value Chains.

Phase one of the project was initiated by Car-

ibbean Centre for Competitiveness (CCfC) and involved a detailed analysis of the global furniture industry and a preliminary review of the local industry. This phase concluded with a stakeholder consultation at the Herdmanston Lodge on March 16.

Phase two of the project is set to be undertaken over the month of March to early April and

will involve a deepened analysis of the local industry through which a local cluster mapping of all stakeholders will be conducted and the local value chain constructed.

This activity will determine the competitive strategic segments within which the Guyana Furniture industry should focus its efforts.

Interviews will be

conducted with logging companies, sawmilling companies, furniture manufacturers and institutional stakeholders in order to develop a strong understanding of the current state of the industry and to appreciate possible future industry trends.

This phase will culminate in a second stakeholder meeting at which the findings will be presented.

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Public servants should always be recognised for -President -at Berbice Regional Health their contributions Authority’s award ceremony

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he Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA) on Friday evening held its 12th annual award ceremony in honour of workers who have made outstanding contribution to the sector and the region.

President Donald Ramotar lauded the initiative as he noted that all public servants should at all times be recognised for their contributions. In extending congratulation to the awardees, President Ramotar lauded the organisers of the initiative.

and more for our public servants.”

While acknowledging the fact that there have been some blunders on the part of health workers in the sector, the President said they should all be hailed for their efforts. “…in a general sense, we must be generally grateful for the work that our public servants have been doing in order to make the world a better place.”

The Head of State also pointed out that while the health workers have made

A proud sponsor of the event, Yog Mahadeo handing over the champion worker award to driver/mechanic Perry Phillips “This is an extremely good tradition that you’ve have started, to let our people know how much they are appreciated, and we need to do that more

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sterling contributions, they have significantly added to the development of the sector, and more so a better and higher quality of life that all citizens enjoy.

“…It makes a contribution of every aspect of our work because when we have a healthy population we have longer life; health service is one of the areas that contribute to extending human life.”

President Ramotar added that with a healthy population, it is also expected that there is a more educated population as a healthy body ultimately allows for a healthy mind, “and then we also expect that we will have a stronger and better economy, because if the people who operate in the economy are healthy and educated and at least three-quarters are happy…it makes a tremendous contribution to life, and makes a contribution to our society.”

President Ramotar, speaking of the health sector’s massive transformation over the years, said that almost every community in the hinterland is equipped with a health hut, health centre, and hospital or has access to basic health care services.

Pointing to other achievements in the sector, he noted that new hospitals have been established while modern facilities

A section of the gathering at the Berbice Regional Health Authority’s 12th award ceremony have been installed at existing institutions.

Services that were never available in the past including, open heart surgery, dialysis treatment, and cancer treatment are now accessible to citizens.

Unfortunately, the President noted that there were some set back in bringing more services to citizens at a reduced cost with the Specialty hospital project.

These and other development projects, the President said, are needed to further advance growth in the country’s economy. The allocation for the Specialty Hospital project was cut by the combined opposition.

Meanwhile Chief Executive Officer of the BHRA, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo centered his remarks on the famous Albert Einstein’s

quote, ‘Only a life lived for others is worth living’.

He noted that while the services of all in the health sector are acknowledged, there are a few who ought to be recognised for going beyond the call of duty. “…this means all the health sector workers of Regions Five and Six have over the years lived lives worth living because every minute of every day, of every month of every year is spent helping others.”

Dr. Mahadeo pointed out that at every stage of life health workers have been giving of their best, as they cater to unborn babies, infants, adolescents, young adults, and elders in their daily routines.

He said the BRHA has the distinction of being the only one that has special

programmes that cover all stages of life.

Speaking of the strides made by the BRHA in the region’s health sector, Dr. Mahadeo said the authority has kept moving forward since its establishment, and will continue to raise the bar of health care delivery.

He noted too that thanks to the government’s contribution, the sector has seen massive development.

However, in going forward he called on all health workers to continue to put their best foot forward even in the face of criticisms.

Meanwhile some of those who received awards include, Dr. Tameshwar Algu, a Resident Surgeon who copped the CEO’s award, while Perry Phillips, a diver/mechanic copped the Champion Worker award.

The Crabwood Creek Health Centre got the Best Health Centre award, while Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice Health Centre got the prize for the Best Medical Care.

Awards were also presented to regular blood donors, midwives, retirees, nursing assistants and staff nurses for their outstanding duty in services to persons.

Bartica IMC receives $14.7M in assets under “Clean-up My Country” programme

he Bartica Interim Management Committee (IMC) is the latest body to receive equipment for the sustenance of the “Clean-up my Country” programme within Bartica and its environs.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development (MLRGD), recently handed over one mini excavator, one tractor and trailer, and 25 solid waste receptacles to the IMC. Croal, in his address, said that “the mini excavator will be in the custody of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and it is intended to be used in the confines and space of the NDC and the neighbouring communi-

ties.” He also informed the representatives that “the tractor and trailer will assigned to the Bartica NDC” and “it is expected to aid in infrastructure support for the NDC” while “the solid waste receptacles must be utilised to help to address the issue of littering in the community.”

Acknowledging the challenge which the community is faced with, as it relates to the disposing of solid waste after collection, Croal assured the representatives that under the Solid Waste Bill, which is likely to be passed in the next sitting of parliament, measures will be put in place to address these challenges in Bartica.

The mini excavator was procured at a cost of $G 8.9M, while

the tractor was procured at a cost of $G 4.4M and the trailer at a cost of G$1.2M. He informed the representatives that a tripartite meeting between MLGRD, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Regional Solid Waste Contractor for Bartica will soon be held, to discuss the progress of the environmental plan, to be submitted to EPA to gain approval of the operation of the new landfill site.

Under the Regional aspect of the Clean-Up My Country Programme, Bartica benefited from a massive community programme in December 2014. This gave residents the opportunity to get rid of bulk waste stored in their premises, as well as a massive

Permanent Secretary of the MLGRD Collin Croal hands over the equipment to Chairman of the IMC Ovid Benjamin as Regional Executive Officer Peter Ramotar looks on clean-up of the Water Front and ment of Guyana and the Ministry removal of road side/illegal gar- of Local Government and Rebage piles. gional Development and assured Mr. Ovid Benjamin, wel- the Permanent Secretary that the comed the assets and expressed equipment will be used for what his gratitude towards the Govern- they are intended to.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

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hose who remembered the days of buying writing papers and envelopes to write and post letters would vividly remember reading the exciting news of an overseas relative coming to visit. It was exciting because of the expectation of savouring something really fancy then, ‘ice-apple’ and sardines. Young people reading this may be asking what could be so exciting about eating ice-apples and sardines.

Today, there is no excitement, but it was euphoric in the past.

The context therefore must be understood.

In previous editions, I tried to capture various situations of that past period. Briefly, again, it was a time when basic food items were banned and during that particular period, it was considered illegal to have something as simple as bread and sardines. It is against that backdrop that the euphoria alluded to has to be contextualised. It would be daunting for young people today to conceptualise having to be without ice-apples and sar-

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dines, not because these foods are staples, but because it became ubiquitous over the years and are considered as snacks.

First of all, I can’t recall it being referred to as ice-apples for a very long time. It’s just apples over the years. I would want to believe that a vast majority of young people, if not all within this generation, probably haven’t heard of the term ice-apples. I stand to be corrected on that. As simple as the change in terminology may sound, in many ways it represents the evolution and the distance travelled over the period on which this series of articles are premised.

As a boy, whenever our family was privileged to receive an ice-apple, either from someone visiting or through a shipped parcel, I remember savouring the small slice that was allocated. The apple was cut into oneinch wedges, depending on the size. I ensured that my wedge took a long while to finish so that the taste can linger, and linger of course. Traditionally, I

Director of the Government Information Agency (GINA) Neaz Subhan

am not a slow eater, so the pains of having to deliberately do so then, can be understood.

Then, apples and grapes represented a feast that festered in dreams and when materialised, indulging maximally was a given. It wasn’t beyond boys then, myself included, to try and have the apple seeds germinate in an effort to provide a continual supply to satisfy cravings. Not only were we disappointed, but our naivety was eventually ex-

posed given the climatic conditions that were prerequisites.

Similarly, we hoped for the sardine tins to be extremely deep.

You now know differently.

Having the opportunity to relish a portion of a tin of sardine back then, was always something to look forward to.

Whenever it arose, again, there was the deliberateness to eat slowly. The common practice was to eat the rice with the related gravy and to leave the “meat” for last. This “principle” was basically adopted for every rice and meat meal. Clearly the intent was to extend as long as possible, the taste of meat, regardless whether it was fish or chicken.

Indulging was one aspect with regards to consuming small portions of sardines. Getting rid of the tin was another during the period what it was banned.

I recall the ritual of burying it in the backyard where the “secret” would remain uncompromised.

The efforts for such “gravedigging adventures” were worthy. While I never heard any

“prayers” or “final words”, it didn’t mean such wasn’t offered silently with the profound hope and expectation for another “adventure”.

Having seen lots of movies growing up, given that it was the pastime, I always dreamt of the day to eat an entire apple as the stars did in some films. The sound of the crunch of the first bite in the film, further encouraged such dreams, where from a bowl of apples on the table, one can be had at any time; grab, toss in air, catch, bite! It may sound woefully childish, but those were aspirations, at least mine, as a child.

Today, it’s now common in Guyana to grab an apple from the breakfast table or the refrigerator and munch; no longer a luxury, but a party of everyday life! A now simple endeavour, which may have no context for the young people, profoundly represents how much distance has been travelled in Guyana’s journey over the past two decades or so. Ironically, I no longer like apples!

A rose by any other name is still a rose- Dr. Roger Luncheon

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ead of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS) and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon has give his take on Leader of the Opposition David Granger’s statement on continuing the quest for the construction of the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project if his APNU+AFC coalition gets into office.

The HPS succinctly said that “A rose by any other name is still a rose’,

so the Amaila Falls Hydro Power a´ la a PPP/C administration a´ la APNU, I don’t know what is the AFC’s position, if it is sustained from the debacle from the 10th Parliament; it is to my view, some convergence”.

Dr Luncheon recalled that Blackstone and Sithe Global held out that when the government and the political opposition were “at one”, they would feel more

confident in moving forward with this investment.

The PPP/C, he added, and the major opposition party seem to be saying that they both are in favour of going ahead with the Amaila Falls project.

Dr Luncheon reiterated the statement made by President Donald Ramotar that before the end of this year, construction will begin on the transformational project.

An artist’s impression of the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project

Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon Described as Guyana’s largest and most ambitious project to date, the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project is closer to becoming a reality. This was revealed on December 31, when President Donald Ramotar gave his annual New Year’s address to the nation.

He announced then that, “Norway has transferred earnings from our partnership of approximately US$80 million to the InterAmerican Development Bank to fund part of Guy-

ana’s equity share in the project. This is a significant accomplishment.”

The president who described the Amaila Falls Hydro power Project as the flagship of the Low Carbon Development Strategy, emphasised that government will continue to invest heavily in the physical infrastructure, “that is so critical to creating jobs and improving livelihoods.”

The realisation of the transformational project, he said, is high amongst gov-

ernment’s priorities, “to ensure the achievement of more affordable and more reliable energy.”

President Ramotar said that for too long, Guyanese have looked forward to harnessing the country’s vast hydropower potential, and that “The time for realising this dream is long overdue”. Unreliable and unaffordable electricity, he explained, continues to be the biggest impediment to investment and job creation in Guyana.

The Amaila Hydropower Project involves the construction of a hydropower plant in the area of west-central Guyana, where the Amaila and Kuribrong rivers meet.

Electricity produced at the plant will be delivered to Guyana's capital, Georgetown, and its second largest town, Linden, by an electric transmission line. Once operational, approximately $9 billion will be saved annually.

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The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Outstanding 2014 sport personalities honoured

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ighteen (18) Sports Awards were presented to 17 sport personalities, who were on top of their game in 2014; the occasion was the National Sports Commission’s annual Sports Awards on the evening of March 13.

Addressing the gathering at the National Cultural Centre, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, emphasised that “we can be justifiably proud of our top achievers for they brought personal glory to themselves and brought price and honour to the nation… for that and so much more, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners.”

Acknowledging the outstanding performances of the Sportsman of the Year-Veerasammy Permaul, the Sportswoman and Junior Sportswoman of the Year-Cassie George, and the Junior Sportsman of the Year-Jason Yaw, Minister Anthony emphasised that “they are the epitome of discipline, drive and passion (and) that is why they have accomplished so much during the year.”

At this point, the minister recognised the sports administrators and volun-

The awardees along with a number of Government officials pose after the conclusion of the award ceremony teers whose valuable work has helped to move sports forward in Guyana. He then highlighted the importance of being engaged in sports which results in people’s living of a healthier lifestyle.

“These secrets of sports, the panacea of life must be shared with the inactive part of our population, so that they too can experience these joys,” he said. The minister added that the MCY has been urging a lifelong approach to sports that starts in early childhood, where children, through sports, are able to acquire the necessary motor and essential life skills.

While many parents dream of having smart children, “we must create the enabling conditions

for them to be smarter… one simple way is their active involvement in sports,” Minister Anthony explained.

Minister Anthony highlighted that sports in one mechanism that is used in strengthening community relationships, and have also resulted in the reduction of anti-social behavior, less crime, less vandalism, and less use of illicit substances.

“Over the last three years, the Government of Guyana has made tremendous investments in community facilities…we have spent $700M on more than 650 grounds in every region of Guyana,” Minister Anthony pointed out. This investment has seen thousands of people across the

country getting involved in fixing their community grounds and encouraging people within the community to get involved in sports.

The minister recognised that while the sport programs exist the next step is to ensure that Guyana be involved in competitive sports. “To do this the government has made substantial investments in the building of world-class sport infrastructure,” he noted. These include the Guyana National Stadium, the National Aquatic Centre, the Synthetic Track, and the Resource Centre.

“In addition to these investments, the GOG will like to work with every national, regional and community organisation

to ensure quality physical education and sport experiences be available to every child…over the next few years we want to work with everyone so that we can make Guyana into a fit nation, a nation of sports,” Minister Anthony posited.

At the end of his remarks, Minister Anthony shared his dream of Guyana becoming a ‘sports powerhouse’ in this century, based on commitments to continue to build new sport facilities, train more people and develop more outstanding sportsmen and women.

The 2014 awardees are as follows: 1. Person with Disability – Calvin Thomas 2. Sports Journalist

Photographer – Orlando Charles 3. Sports Journalist (Non Print) – Avenash Ramzan 4. Sports Journalist (Print) – Emmerson Campbell 5. Most Improved Association – Guyana Rugby Football Union 6. Sports Association – Guyana Rugby Football Union 7. Female Sports Official – Vidushi Persaud 8. Male Sports Official – Peter Greene 9. Sports Coach – Theodore Henry 10. Sports Team – Guyana Rugby Men’s Team 11. Runner-up Junior Sportswoman – Akila Wiltshire 12. Runner-up Junior Sportsman – Shemron Hetmyer 13. Junior Sportswoman – Cassie George 14. Junior Sportsman – Jason Yaw 15. Runner-up Sportswoman – Alisha Fortune 16. Runner-up Sportsman – Kristian Jeffery 17. Sportswoman of the Year – Cassie George 18. Sportsman of the Year – Veerasammy Persaud

Nurses evening classes are doing well - Health Minister

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inister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran has pointed out that the evening classes for nurses held at the old Guyana Water Authority’s (GUYWA’s) building in Barrack Street, Kingston, Georgetown are doing extremely well despite challenges.

Recently the school saw 15 students from its first batch successfully graduating as nursing assistants.

Minister Ramsaran, speaking during an interview on the National Communications Network’s “Political Scope” programme on March 18, said the move to establish the evening classes was influenced by the need for more professionals, as well as space for classroom facilities during the course of the day. Also another contributing factor was the need

for tutors who also were not available in the day due to their employment commitments.

He however, added that there are challenges, as there is ‘mischief in the leadership about the night/ evening classes… this is some of the sabotage that is happening in the system, we had instructed, that based on policy, that the classes should start from three, straight into the night, so you are potentially freeing up the same spaces in the day for the day school to gradually decamp …” he said.

Minister Ramsaran further noted that “ somebody instructed that these classes start at one o’ clock, so my evening classes now are starting in the midday, which mean theoretically you have destroyed my intention to use the same

Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran addressing the first batch of successful nurses that benefitted from the evening classes facilities 100% more, so we are going to revert that to three o clock in the next intake.”

Recently trainee nurses staged a protest against the Health Ministry’s decision to relocate them to the Kingston location.

But, Minister Ramsa-

ran said the ministry will continue its work, as there are plans for the removal of other classes such as those for Lab Technicians which are also being done at the facility to be diverted to another building, which is more suitable for its nature.

The Medex courses have

been held at this facility for a number of years.

Also as the ministry continues to work towards strengthening the academics of its medical staff to build capacity and allow for a better quality of care for its people, Professor Mina Singh, PhD, of

York University, Canada, is working with the Tutor DevelopmentEducation Program in collaboration with the ministry to train nursing tutors.

This is a major step for the ministry because there were high failure rates at the National Nursing examinations and one of the contributing factors was the delivery of the curriculum, which is now expected to be improved under this programme.

Further the minister encouraged nursing assistants to consider joining the midwifery programme which will soon be further upgraded as the ministry is working with the University Hospital and Case Western University. The partnership will see a team visiting Guyana to improve midwifery techniques through in service training.

The Guyanese - “Keeping the Diaspora informed”

Guyana’s first five-star hotel set to open its doors on April 16

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he much anticipated Marriott Hotel, located in Kingston, is set to formally open on April 16. Speaking at a press conference, in the Mazaruni room, of the Hotel, on March 12, Chairman of the Atlantic Hotel Inc.,(AHI) Winston Brassington, informed the media that despite great challenges and non-support from the Parliamentary Opposition, the project managed to survive, and is 99% complete, with only final touches to be made.

With the establishment of this complex, Guyana is now home to the second Marriott Hotel in the Caribbean and Latin America with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Haiti welcomed the first Marriot in February, a $45M investment, a 175room hotel owned by Digicel Group, Haiti’s largest mobile provider.

The 160-room Guyana Marriot will operate under a management agreement with AHI, which is currently owned by the Government of Guyana, as part of a public-private partnership between the government and private sector investors.

The complex houses a seven-storey main structure, an administration

A view of the newly constructed Marriott Hotel building containing offices, and a banquet hall on the eastern side, and a separate entertainment complex to the west, containing a specialty restaurant, nightclub and casino.

Marriott Hotel’s funding is transparent During the press conference, Brassington, noted that despite the many criticisms and challenges faced by the Marriott Hotel project, it is today 99% completed and hotel will soon opened for business, the opposition still continues to bash the undertaking. In the face of the transparent process and information provided at each phase of the project’s development, the opposition continued to question and block the funding for the project, Brassington pointed out.

Brassington said, “The

terms and conditions of the financing for the investment and the incentives offered were always a matter of public record and were represented in Parliament since early 2012 by the Honourable Minister of Finance. They have not changed since... they have always been transparent.”

He also pointed out that “financing from Republic Bank of US$27 M and from the equity investor of US$8 M remains committed, but financial disbursement has been partially delayed due to legal actions filed by the opposition.

Debt Financing Despite having received final financial commitment from Republic Bank and AHI in October 2014 for debt financing of US$27M, Opposition Member of

A section of the Banquet Hall at the Marriot Hotel

Parliament Desmond Trotman, filed another legal action in December 2014, opposing the passage of the mortgage from AHI in favour of the Bank.

The Chairman ex-

A condition in the initial agreements which were executed with the private equity investor in April 2013 has been that the injection of the equity was contingent on the conclusion of the commitments with the bank for the US$27M in debt financing.

In May of 2014, following announcement of the conclusion of the commitments of RBL, the name of the investor group was released to the public. The injection of the US$8M by the investor group continues to be delayed, if not jeopardised, as a result of the legal actions filed by the opposition.

Interim Funding from NICIL

which are not derived from taxes, but are the proceeds from the sale of investments owned by NICIL or dividend returns from NICIL investments,” he added.

Achievements According to the chairman, despite all of the challenges to the project, there were some achievements, these include securing of the Marriott brand; the hotel being built in line with its budget and to Marriott standards.

The employment of approximately 230 Guyanese is underway, selected from a total of over 3000 applications, in an extremely open and transparent process.

A sneak peak of one of the ‘Standard’ rooms at the Marriott Hotel plained that “Given that the publication of the mortgage is one of the final steps and is part of the security package required by the Republic Bank Limited for the conclusion of the debt financing, the opposition to the mortgage has effectively served to partially delay the disbursement of the US$27M financing from the syndicated group of lenders led by RBL.” As a result, the bank was only able to disburse a total of US$15.25M. The balance awaits resolution of the court matter or alternative resolution.

Private Equity Investor

As a result of the continued legal and other attacks to delay the injection of the private financing, National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has provided funding, on an interim basis.

NICIL has advanced approximately US$16M in additional funds to ensure the completion of the hotel.

According to Brassington, these funds will be reimbursed once the legal challenge to the mortgage is discharged. “The additional funds advanced by NICIL as interim funding are NICIL owned funds,

A private equity investor has been found and an agreement executed with this investor who was cleared by both Marriott and Republic Bank and announced publicly in 2014.

US$27M debt financing was committed and all legal documentation executed to allow disbursement.

Following the fallout from the failure to pass the AML Bill, Marriott has agreed to be the operator of the Entertainment Complex.

AHI is poised to be the largest taxpayer in the hotel and hospitality sector in Guyana.

FOR FREE DISTRIBUTION

Issue No: 13

March 27, 2015

Guyana Postcard

Composite photo: Inside the Presidential Suite of the Marriott, Guyana Marriott, Guyana’s first five-star hotel is set to open its doors on April 16 See story on Page 31