Weekend Mirror 5-6 February 2022

APNU+AFC Coalition fails to engage PPP/C in ‘contest of ideas’ – Jagdeo 5-6 February, 2022 / Vol. 12 ‒ No. 8 / Price: $100

Email: mirror2018.gy@gmail.com

PAGE 12

Patterson put on blast over ‘convenient’ call for renegotiation of Exxon agreement PAGE 3

Coalition’s motion targeting PPP/C MPs dismissed PAGE 14

Chief Elections Officer tasked with preparing roadmap for LGE PAGE 9

SEE INSIDE

Guyana expects oil revenues to surpass trillion-dollar mark by 2025 PAGE 2

Energy projects are about creating jobs, wealth for Guyanese PAGE 11

Health Minister PAGE 23 outlines effects of long-COVID ‒ urges more vaccination

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Guyana expects oil revenues to surpass trillion-dollar mark by 2025 G

uyana expects a tsunami of revenue inflows to its Natural Resource Fund (NRF), in the next four years, amounting to twice the size of its $552.9 billion 2022 Budget.

The projections are captured in Budget 2022, which was recently tabled in the National Assembly by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni

Singh.

Guyana expects US$957,874,800 revenues in 2022, US$1,165,443,900 in 2023, US$1,335,315,100 in 2024, and US$1,781,842,700 in 2025. These figures, ac-

counting for profit oil, royalties and interests, amount to US$5,240,476,500. In Guyana’s currency, that amounts to nearly $1.1 trillion.

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just how much money this is. The 2025 inflows alone, nearly eclipse Guyana’s 2021 Budget.

Guyana currently has a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with ExxonMobil and its partners in the Stabroek Block, Hess Corporation and CNOOC Limited. It sets out a system for the division of the oil produced between the parties, and a royalty charged by the government, which functions like a tax on the price of every barrel of oil produced and sold.

During a five-hour long reading on Wednesday, Dr. Singh outlined the operations in the coming years which will be the source of Guyana’s oil revenues. He said, “The Stabroek Block currently has three identified production areas – Liza 1, Liza 2 and Payara. Production capacity is currently at 120,000 [barrels per day] bpd with the Liza Destiny [floating production, storage and offloading vessel] FPSO in operation.”

Production at the Liza Phase One operation has been going on since December 2019, and has gotten Guyana US$607 million in the past two years. Production had been curtailed by equipment malfunctioning with led to flaring. A resolution of the issue by ExxonMobil and plans to increase the capacity of the Liza Destiny could see higher production levels in the future, and a likelihood for more revenues.

Dr. Singh said, “The coming into operation of the Liza Unity FPSO early in 2022 will raise capacity to 340,000 bpd…” That FPSO arrived in the Stabroek Block late last year, and has the potential to nearly triple Guyana’s current production, with corresponding increases in revenue. This is why Guyana expects to make more money in 2022 than it made in the past two years from oil production.

“The deployment of the Prosperity FPSO in 2024 will further raise capacity to 560,000 bpd,” the finance minister noted.

These three vessels account for all the production operations Guyana has ap-

proved. ExxonMobil has asked Guyana to approve a fourth operation, Yellowtail, which would have a nameplate capacity of 250,000 bpd.

Singh said, “With the anticipated fourth production area, Yellowtail, estimates are poised to reach 810,000 bpd by 2026/2027 and additional developments under consideration could see us reaching 6 FPSOs producing 1 million bpd by 2030.”

This is consistent with public statements made by ExxonMobil and its partners for their production plans for the Stabroek Block, which holds over 10 billion oil-equivalent barrels. There is so much oil that ExxonMobil sees the potential for as many as 10 FPSOs operating all at once to develop the reserves, meaning one million bpd could be just half of the production rate Guyana could achieve if ExxonMobil moves forward with such aggressive production targets.

Over the years, starting in 2022, some of Guyana’s oil revenues will be used to fund pressing development initiatives related to healthcare, education, infrastructure and other critical sectors, which will elevate Guyana to developed status within the framework of the PPP/C’s expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, allowing for the provision of a good standard of living for all Guyanese.

This can be achieved with projects like gas-to-energy which will cut the cost of power in half; transport infrastructure such as upcoming four-lane highways and the new Demerara River Bridge which will increase connectivity and decrease traffic congestion; sustainable hospitals with the best trained medical personnel to provide world class healthcare at little to no cost; and free education at Guyana’s premier public tertiary education institution, the University of Guyana.

The provisions of the Natural Resource Fund Act 2021 establish a transparent, robust framework for this purpose, which makes parliamentary scrutiny the cornerstone of its management.

WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Patterson put on blast over ‘convenient’ call for renegotiation of Exxon agreement C

onflict of interest and other concerns, initially publicized in 2020 with the publication of a Global Witness Report titled ‘Signed Away’, seem to have been forgotten by the APNU+AFC Coalition’s Parliamentarians.

This is according to Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, during a news conference on Thursday (February 3, 2022), who put the Coalition’s David Patterson on blast for his call for a renegotiation of the ExxonMobil agreement.

Patterson, on Thursday (February 3, 2022) during his contribution to the Budget 2022 debates, said, “The opportunities to utilise our gas resources are enormous, as we have stated before.

The Opposition will lend our support to the Government in renegotiations with the Stabroek Block operators in getting a better oil contract.

Lower prices for our gas and better conditions for the Guyanese public,” Jagdeo in response said, “I saw Patterson saying now, conveniently to renegotiate.

When he was General Secretary of the Party (AFC), he did not want to renegotiate.

His boss signed the agreement and they address on the agreement, the local address, is the law office of Mr. Nigel Hughes.”

NIGEL HUGHES CONNECTION Notably, while the APNU+AFC Coalition’s Raphael Trotman was legally responsible for the oil and

gas sector in 2016, during which period the ExxonMobil agreement was renegotiated, concerns about the role of his then partner in the Alliance For Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes, were been spotlighted in a damning report.

The report released by the non-governmental organization, Global Witness, titled ‘Signed Away’, on page 14 said, “Trotman was legally responsible for assessing and approving or rejecting Guyana’s oil licenses. However, during the 2016 Stabroek negotiations Trotman had a possible conflict of interest.

Trotman’s main political partner – Nigel Hughes – had served as one of Exxon’s lawyers on other matters, and Hughes’ firm periodically represents Exxon as a client.”

Notably, when the renegotiated ExxonMobil contract was finally released, on page 4, the address of Hughes’ law office is listed as the registered office – 62 Hadfield and Cross Streets, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown – of the oil company.

Global Witness has called for the relationship between Trotman, Hughes, and Exxon to be investigated to determine the existence or extent of any conflict of interest.

ADMISSION Meanwhile, in July 2019, the Trotman, finally admitted that there were problems with the renegotiated contract between ExxonMobil and Guyana, which was signed off on

by the former APNU+AFC Coalition Government.

However, he absolved himself of any responsibility, blaming the technical staffers of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). Trotman had said, “My only comment is that as a non-technical person, I was not the one to negotiate the contract, and that, at all material times, I acted on the advice and direction of the GGMC…how could I see something as an indictment on myself if I didn’t draft it? I relied on the officers at GGMC at all times and was advised when the agreement was ready for signature.”

Notably, his comment came after reports on the visit by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation, during which the Coalition Government, for the first time, expressed concern that the lack of ring-fencing could negatively affect revenue earned from the agreement it signed with Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) for the 6.6 million acres Stabroek Block.

The Stabroek Block is a massive 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometers).

ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds 25 per cent interest.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

EDITORIAL

APNU+AFC Coalition’s hypocrisy on shameless display during Budget 2022 debates

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he APNU+AFC Coalition’s Parliamentarians ignore the fact that Guyanese remember the five years of hardships that were imposed on the people and nation by the former Coalition government. This is seemingly only logical conclusion, if one manages to endure the presentations being made in opposition to Budget 2022. The hypocrisy of the APNU+AFC Coalition was astounding.

First, instead of a budget debate, where there should have been a contest of ideas and policy, there was an attempt by the Coalition to defend its track record – a case of wrong place and wrong time undoubtedly, given that action not speeches is how the confidence of the people is won.

Secondly, the ramblings of the Coalition expose the financial policy of the People’s National Congress (PNC) of the 60’s onwards – one of spend now, without a thought for future development. Speaker after Speaker from the Opposition benches rose to chastise the PPP/C government on its programme for capital expenditure – roads, bridges and other infrastructure – claiming that “people can’t eat roads.”

However, the PPP/C is not the now PNCR-led APNU+AFC Coalition and its financial philosophy is different – it is to balance addressing people’s livelihoods, creating jobs, expanding our economy, and enhancing welfare of our people, while preparing for the future.

Thirdly, the deliberate peddling of misinformed notion with shameless bravado served the interests of no one – save that of the Coalition’s Parliamentarians who clearly seemed more focused on showboating that an honest, factual debate that would serve the purpose for which leaders are elected – service to the people. Probably one of the most repeated notion related to that of cost of living. Admittedly, all Guyanese are affected by the increase in cost of living. But to ignore the facts for the sake of political points is irresponsible. The issue of increased costs and its link to the global COVID-19 pandemic has been explained ad nauseam; essentially, some amount of the inflation that leads to increased costs is imported. However, steps are being taken to address the matter. The concerns about cost of living in Guyana will be addressed by a $5B allocation in Budget 2022 that is earmarked for interventions. Also, in August 2021, the PPP/C advanced an adjustment to the freight cost component, rolling back freight costs to pre-pandemic levels. This measure was initially due to expire on January 31, 2022 but the application of this adjustment has been extended until December 31, 2022 – costing some $6B. Further, other measures announced are expected to support this effort, including reducing in fuel and support to farmers.

Fourthly and very likely the most hypocritical what the move by the Coalition to champion a menu of socio-economic measures, which they claim necessary for Guyanese to live a “good life” – the same good life they promised but never delivered. However, again, the calls that ‘sound nice’ on camera ignore reality. Pensioners in 2022 have $72B more in their pocket compared to the Coalition’s last year in office; while the ‘We Care’ programmes puts $5B in the pockets of Guyanese; the uniform allowance adds another $600M; and public assistance adds some $840M to Guyanese. In these four areas alone, Guyanese are benefitting from $14B. Fifthly and upsettingly, the questioning of the investments in the GOAL scholarships was another sore point. Arguments that the investment of time and money are wasted because the recipients of the scholarships are not bonded to work in the public services are ludicrous and ignore the drive to improve Guyana’s human capacity, be it in the public or private sector; or be it young Guyanese pursing higher education.

These are in no way the least of the comments made during the debates on Budget 2022, but they are shamelessly made statements.

What must be remembered is that what the APNU+AFC Coalition is the Parliamentary Opposition, they remain representatives of their constituents and opposition for the sake of opposition serves the interest of no one – except that of their own political grandstanding for ‘five’ minutes of fame.

Guyanese deserve better and on a daily basis the people’s decision to repose their confidence the Dr. Irfaan Ali-led PPP/C government is validated.

Budget 2022 will further propel Guyana’s development Dear Editor,

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oday I write to you deeply contented in my heart regarding the 2022 budget, which was presented in Parliament just a few days ago. I listened keenly to the presentation by the Honourable Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, and I must say that every minute of that five-hour-long speech was worthwhile.

I took note of several things that really had a lasting impact on me, and as such, I ask that you permit me to highlight some of those.

It is my view that when we hear about budgets, automatically our minds linger in the direction of development, whether that be in the form of infrastructural development or social development in the sense that we would all be better off. This 2022 budget was focused on every aspect of development for Guyana, and I am so happy that emphasis was placed on building ‘One Guyana’. With this in mind, I must say that I am fully supportive of the budget’s theme, “Steadfast Against All Challenges, Resolute in Building Our One Guyana”.

Editor, I wish to touch on three specific areas of the budget that I feel ought to be given more commendation.

The first area is that of public safety and security. The PPP/C Government has budgeted $47.9B to help in this regard. However, out of this amount, $88.9 million was allocated to be spent to train 1400 inmates in areas such as anger management, literacy and numeracy, and tailoring. I was extremely pleased to see that emphasis was not only placed on the general population, but also those in our prison system. It is my view that development ought to meet every corner of Guyana, especially now that Guyana is on an expansive path to prosperity. As such, knowing that the Government has acknowledged the need for those in our prison system to better themselves by providing more opportunities to them really warms my heart.

Additionally, Budget 2022 provides much-needed support for our Amerindian brothers and sisters. In fact, $3.1B was budgeted to assist in Amerindian and Hinterland Development programmes, which is commendable. The Government has ensured that Amerindian communities are not forgotten, as was the case during the APNU/AFC time in office. I was very excited to learn that $3.4B is budgeted for the Hinterland Roads Programme, to improve connectivity, which I think

is a well-deserved area, especially since the aim of the Government is to build “One Guyana”. At the same time, the fact that approximately 200 hinterland communities are expected to benefit from the deployment of VSAT equipment to facilitate connectivity, for the first time in many instances, is another heartwarming area of this budget.

Lastly, I must mention the allocation that was made to support the First Lady’s Menstrual Hygiene Initiative, which is something that I feel needs more attention. This initiative is one that would benefit thousands of young girls across Guyana, and the $50M allocation would definitely allow the initiative to reach all parts of the country, and push Guyana one step closer to ending period poverty. I commend the Government of Guyana, and more specifically the First Lady, for this, as Guyana is one of the few countries actively trying to end period poverty.

All in all, I think Budget 2022 is one that would further propel Guyana to higher heights, and I cannot stress enough on how thankful I am for the provisions that were made in all the areas, especially those that I’ve outlined.

Respectfully, Brian Azore

Budget 2022 is a comprehensive package Dear Editor,

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udget 2022 has been presented to the nation. It is a meticulously well-written document that has all the associated features of a Government on the move. In the minds of all its hearers, this budget showcases a Government that cares for its people, and one that would deliver despite opposition.

This is what most of us wanted to hear and see in a budget. It is a well-put-together document that would enhance growth and development in this, an oil rich environment.

Ours is an economy under rapid transformation; which means that, with careful management, our country would soon be propelled into a Developed Country status. The naysayers have already hinted that this is an overambitious venture, and one that is destined to fail; but, as the old adage puts it, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”

We are looking forward for that

day, and the starting point is now.

The budget gives allocations to every sector there is. In agriculture, education, infrastructure, housing and healthcare, it caters for the young and old in every area in its all-pervasive approach. It meticulously touches every facet of nation-building in that forward trajectory of progress.

The naysayers are in their usual negative campaign mode of criticising and tearing down without any real sense of responsibility as to give a sensible alternative. Their contributions have been negative ever since their loss at the last election.

What I am also convinced of is that ulterior motive of theirs, wherein they would like to see a nullity to the budget, just as they did in 2011. But those negative efforts are all to no avail, because they are not in a position of strength.

This brings me to another point: with such a large budget, funding

would have to come from sources other than the usual taxes, and here is where the oil revenues come into focus. We must begin usage of our oil funds to put that spike into development. Isn’t it then a stark revelation of the aggressive assault of the Coalition Opposition on the NRF Bill? The aim was to tie the hands of the Government to the point of frustrating them with the non-use of our Natural Resource Fund. That despicable move by the main Opposition had to be stopped.

Guyana is on the right path, and the momentum generated by its rapid progress means that nothing is going to stop us now. It is forward upward movement only. No longer would our country be referred to as an underdeveloped, highly-indebted poor country (HIPC). No longer can the rest of the world speak about us in condescending tones.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Budget debates expose those wont to be unsupportive of development trajectory Dear Editor,

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s I listened to the debate on the 2022 budget it was easy to discern those who were intent on being uncooperative and unsupportive. The Ministers of the Government and the Members of Parliament on the PPP/C side of the house displayed absolute brilliance with the most impressive and factual presentations. This was beautiful. I saw the determination in their presentation.

Their passion for the development of Guyana was evident. Never before have I been so proud of my elected leaders.

On the other hand, the political opposition A Partnership for National Unity and their trusted sidekick the Alliance for Change as expected continued in their anti-progressive nature. It was the APNU+AFC whilst in Government who demonstrated clearly to Guyana that they have no vision or even the slightest clue as to how to run this country.

The budget debate began without a Leader of the Opposition. This predicament is as a result of the internal squabbling of the PNC/R. In their directionless state, the

political opposition has long since signalled their displeasure with the 2022 budget. This is highly unfortunate as the 2022 budget dubbed “historic and transformational” is intended to ease the burden faced by the people of Guyana, even taking into consideration the global pandemic and its effects.

On day one, Opposition’s MP Ms. Amanza Walton Desir; who started off the debate, was highly theatrical in her presentation. Aside from having a good sense of fashion, the opening speaker of the opposition rambled senselessly on a number of issues she clearly intended to deceive Guyana on.

As the day proceeded the nation saw exactly how a political opposition functions without a leader. This does not go to say that had there been an opposition leader at the start of the debate that the opposition the outcome would have been any better.

Guyana as a developing nation is transforming. As highlighted in the presentation of the Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oniedge Walrond who said “Budget 2022, will be truly transformative. It will be the first of several budgets

that propel us into the ranks of developed countries, with a standard and quality of living that Guyanese have dreamed of for generations. It will propel all of us.” This budget will see all of Guyana developing and this is the starting point.

Another government Member of Parliament Mr. Seepaul Narine in his contribution said “Budget 2022, I believe, has not missed any area of national life.

Every man, woman and child will gain from Budget 2022. This is the nature of the PPP/C, which ensures that development is all-round and no one is left out.” He further stressed the fact that this year's budget is

another manifestation of the PPP/C Government’s unyielding commitment to unlock the nation’s potential and improve the wellbeing of citizens.”

These are but a few accurate representations of budget 2022. It is only the 31 members of the failed APNU/AFC that cannot see the tremendous thought and vision that birthed and compiled budget 2022. This is because they are visionless and as a result it is evident in the way they operate in and out of the National Assembly.

Yours Truly, Alvin Hamilton

Welcomed support for school children Dear Editor,

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he national budget presented by Dr Ashni Singh is the largest to be read in the National Assembly. At $552.9B, one thing is certain: no Guyanese was left out or forgotten by their Government.

But there is one aspect of the budget with which I am most pleased, and that is the huge allocation to the education sector. The PPP/C Government has allocated $74.4B in the 2022 budget for the development of the education sector in alignment with its 2030 vision for that sector.

Further, Dr Singh announced an increase to the Because We Care cash grant, from $15,000 to $25,000 per child, and the School Uniform grant has been increased from

$4,000 to $5,000. This total of $30,000 to each boy and girl from nursery to secondary school is no small feat. This cash grant is impressive, as it significantly removes the expenses that otherwise would be incurred by parents and caregivers of our youngest, brightest, and most precious resource – our children.

And if this trajectory is maintained, unhindered by bad politics, like in 2015, when APNU/AFC decided to cut funding for the programme, then one can confidently stand by this Government in knowing that better days are ahead for all of our children.

Yours truly, Attiya Baksh

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

P P P /C D E L I V E R I N G O N ‘ P L A N F O R P R O S P E R I T Y ’ Gov’t to construct 1000 affordable Road network in houses using local wood No.76, 77 villages upgraded T R he PPP/C Government will be constructing 1000 houses utilising 100 per cent local wood as part of its efforts to provide affordable homes to Guyanese.

The project forms part of the value-added to the Government’s housing programme.

Since its ascension to office in August 2020, the Administration has accelerated its national housing programme through the allocation of lands and the construction of low, moderate and young professional homes for citizens.

Under the construction of homes initiative, the Ministry of Housing and Water’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is constructing a total of 350 two- bedroom elevated homes in Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown; 100 two-bedroom flat units in Prospect, East Bank Demerara; 100 two- bedroom flat units in Williamsburg, Region Six; and 40 two-bedroom elevated units in Amelia’a Ward, Linden, Region Ten. Another 200 two- storey and flat units are being con-

structed at Providence, East Bank Demerara and 150 more in Prospect. So far, 100 units have been completed in Providence.

Additionally, under the Core Home Support Initiative, 25 homes were constructed in Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, Region Three, while another 25 are under construction in Sophia, Georgetown. These homes target low-income and vulnerable families who are only required to make a contribution of $100,000 towards the homes.

In 2021, the sum of

$18.7 billion was expended to continue consolidation works in 11 existing CH&PA housing areas, including Great Diamond, Prospect and Cummings Lodge.

This year, $12.4 billion has been allocated for continued infrastructural development works in housing schemes, including the upgrading of 45.5 kilometres of roads in 31 existing housing areas across Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Nine and Ten. Last year, a total of 10,063 house lots were allocated to Guyanese, while some 1,266 land titles and transports were distributed. This is in keeping with Government’s commitment to deliver 50,000 house lots to Guyanese by 2025.

esidents of No.76 and No.77 villages in Region Six have lauded the multi-million-dollar upgrade to the road network in their communities.

A total of 3,140 metres of road is being undertaken in No.77 by Rajendra Ramcharitar Contracting Enterprise at a cost of $170 million. Over at No.76, 5,005 meters of road is being executed by Associated Contracting Service at a cost of $268 million.

On Saturday, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill inspected the projects. Addressing residents, Minister Edghill said the upgrades in the communities are a commitment being fulfilled by government. He

said, “In the run up to the 2020 elections, I walked all these streets knocked on your doors and asked you for your vote. So, I am happy that we are in government and I have come back now to see how you are benefitting from your government working for you.”

Both projects have a sixmonth deadline of June 30.

However, both projects are ahead of schedule and are on course to be completed within a couple of weeks.

“We are saying to all the contractors even though you have all this time to finish the work, the faster you finish, the better for the people and then they could bid to do work in other areas,” Minister Edghill said.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

P P P /C D E L I V E R I N G O N ‘ P L A N F O R P R O S P E R I T Y ’ Gov’t improving living conditions of low-income families S ix low-income families received the keys to their newly constructed homes in Lust-en Rust and La Parfaite Harmonie housing schemes, Region Three, under the Ministry of Housing and Water’s core home support initiative.

The homes were officially handed over by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, on Friday. CHPA

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sherwyn Greaves, and Deputy Director of Community Development, Donell Bess-Bascom were also present.

During his remarks, at the handing over, Minister Croal said that the initiative forms part of the government’s national housing plan to provide affordable

housing opportunities for all Guyanese. “You have an opportunity here today to have a new beginning, a new life, an environment that you will be happy to be in where you can now have that safe space that you are living in…what we do as a ministry and a government, is that we also cater for every level of society including the vulner-

able,” he told the residents.

Minister Croal pointed out that the homes can be used as a start-up for families to build their dream homes and live that comfortable life they desire.

The two-bedroom concrete structures were built at a cost $4 million each. It is equipped with all amenities including water and elec-

tricity. The beneficiaries were only required to make a contribution of $100,000 towards the home’s construction.

The core homes support is part of the $6.5 Billion funded Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme funded by the IDB. The programme is aimed at improving the lives

of citizens through access to better housing and basic infrastructure.

Further, works to the tune of $800 million are ongoing for road construction, pavements and drainage in the region. As part of the ministry’s 2022 work programme, further works will be done within the Parfaite Harmonie area.

No.52 farm-to-market road completed, work on No.58 road moving apace

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he all-weather farm- tomarket road at No.52 village, Region Six has been completed, while work is moving apace on the road at No.58 village. The roads are a link to Canje Creek and present new opportunities in the agriculture sector for

farmers in the region.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill visited the two sites on Saturday (January 29, 2022) to check on the works’ progress. He said there has been major improvement, when compared to his first visit last

year. “What I am seeing here is transformation. The #58 road is what we are pushing all the way down to the Canje Creek, with the intent eventually to cross the Canje Creek and open new lands. I am satisfied with the progress that has been made there,”

the minister explained.

The road at No.52 village was executed by Associated Construction Service $239 million, while the road at No.58 is being undertaken

by Guyamerica Construction Inc at $640 million. While paving at No.52 is complet-

ed, the paving at No.58 will be completed within three months.

For the works at No.58 village, Minister Edghill said a contract has been awarded to Kares Engineering Inc. to install two bridges at Seaforth and Fowler.

Additionally, the minister said monies are in the 2022 budget, to continue the road at No.58 road to the Canje Creek.

A whopping $76.7 billion has been proposed for roads and bridges in the National Budget for 2022.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Chief Elections Officer tasked with preparing roadmap for LGE W

ith progress being made to fill key vacant positions within the Secretariat of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), contrary to the claims being made by the APNU+AFC Coalition, Local Government Elections (LGE) will be held.

GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj, explained that while LGE was due in 2021, the absence of a Chief Elections Officer (CEO) and other key staffers, who are responsible for the fulfillment of certain statutory duties, did not allow for GECOM to be in a state of readiness. “There are certain processes that have to be conducted and concluded as a precursor to the holding of the elections…it is my view that

we are well poised to ensure that those processes are concluded [this year], and once concluded, Local Government Elections can be held,” Gunraj said.

He said the Commission is currently preparing a roadmap for the conduct of Local Government Elections in 2022. The GECOM Commissioner said, “We asked, at our last meeting, the Chief Elections Officer to prepare basically a roadmap, which includes time and task from where we are currently to the holding of Local Government Elections and beyond. So, it’s our hope that once we get that done, we will start acting on that, and it is my personal hope that we can start acting on that with alacrity.”

The 2018 Local Government Elections were held in 80 Local Authority Areas – 10 towns and 70 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils – and the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), according to secured wins in 52 of the LAAs. Nationally, preliminary results showed that the PPP/C has almost doubled the margin of votes be-

tween the Party and APNU and AFC combined – moving from about 24,000 at the 2016 Local Government Elections to over 45,000 at this year’s Local Government Elections. The difference of votes between the PPP/C and the AFC was a whopping 113,000 votes.

Between the PPP/C and the APNU, the difference of votes was over 50,000.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Amerindian Development…

FOCUS ON GUYANA’ S FIRST PEOPLE Region One villages get agri equipment, vehicles to benefit schoolchildren, village economy G

overnment has started off 2022 progressively, with Amerindians benefitting from vehicles and vessels to ease their livelihoods.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, over the weekend travelled to Region One (Barima-Waini), where she presented tractors,

a bus and a cheque for a boat to a few communities.

The villages of Mora, Parakeese, 7 Miles Branch Road, Cabrora and Kamwatta each received a tractor, equipped with a trailer and harrow, to aid in their economic development through agriculture.

The equipment will significantly boost the villages’ agricultural production and contribute to President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s vision, of Guyana becoming an agriculture powerhouse.

Minister Sukhai implored the village councils to properly manage the new

assets to ensure longevity.

“If you keep your machine in order by servicing it at the right time, you will get long life out of it. If you treat it wildly you will find breakage. These village assets are provided to support the needs of the community.

Tractors work on fuel, they

need lubricants, caring and proper management,” she said.

At Kamwatta, Minister Sukhai presented a cheque for a boat that costs in excess of $300,000, to lessen the burden of travel for residents.

Over at a Skyland, a bus

was handed over to the village council to ensure children are able to travel to and from school in comfort, eliminating the miles-long walk.

This is part of the programme of continuous support to Amerindian communities.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

POSITIONS FROM THE PRESIDENT

Energy projects are about creating jobs, wealth for Guyanese T

he energy projects in the pipeline for Guyana will not only achieve energy security, but they have much broader ends, including the creation of jobs and wealth for Guyanese, and strengthening multiple industries’ performances, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in comments on Saturday (January 29, 2022).

He said, “Let us understand this when we speak about Amaila Falls hydro, the natural gas power plant, the investment in the agriculture sector is about jobs.

Ultimately, it is about jobs, the creation of wealth, revenue and more disposable income for the people of this country.”

The Government has a comprehensive energy sector agenda to be executed, which will bring the cost of electricity down to 50 per cent of the current price, leaving more disposable income with Guyanese families. But more than that, the President stressed that this will result in lower operational costs for manufacturing, industrial development and agro-processing, which will be key to improving Guyana’s competitiveness as a destination for investment.

This means, the President explained, in addition to the cost of electricity going down, Guyanese can look out for reductions in the price of building materials like nails and zinc.

The two major projects, for which construction will begin soon, are the Gas-to-Energy project and the Amaila Falls hydropower project. Both projects are purposed to clean up Guyana’s electricity generation, which has for years been powered almost entirely by heavily polluting heavy fuel oil and diesel. The introduction of cleaner solutions also has other benefits. For example, the Government is facilitating investments into the production of fertilizer at the Wales Development Zone, where the Gas-to-Energy project will be based.

“Imagine what our own fertilizer plant will do for the agriculture sector. This is how the budget and the energy sector and the natural gas plant and the hydro is linked to all of us. Just imagine what the fertilizer plant will do for the agricultural sector. Imagine what our own agrochemical plant will do.

Imagine what our own LNG plant will do,” Ali said.

The President also challenged the public to consider how many jobs will be provided in the implementation of these projects, during the construction and operation phases. For example, the project summary for the Gas-to-Energy project states that it will create over 700 jobs.

In addition to these mega-projects, Dr. Ali discussed the smaller renewable

energy projects. He said, “Investments are also made in small hydro power plants, and off grid solar systems, and these are especially earmarked for the hinterland riverine communities.”

Two hydropower plants are in the pipeline for the people of Lethem and surrounding communities, at the Moco Moco and Kumu waterfalls. The Government is also gathering the finances to fund solar power projects across the country and for a project to electrify 30,000 hinterland and riverine homes.

Dr. Ali challenged critics of these projects to develop perspective on the benefits they will provide to the people. He said, “Those who are writing from their little cocoon in their AC offices cannot imagine this, but this is how Budget 2022 affects the lives of people directly, affects the lives and communities directly. That is why it’s a people centered budget.”

He said that the full context of Budget 2022 cannot be understood if one looks at it in isolation from the government’s long-term vision, which is established in the PPP/C manifesto.

While Budget 2022 provides some of the tools needed, the President said that it is up to the Guyanese people to be positive and to contribute to the country’s overall development.

Budget 2022 creates vital linkages between citizens’ welfare and the country’s transformation

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n addition to laying the foundation and establishing the framework through which the development and expansion of our country will take place, Budget 2022 is also designed to enhance the welfare of all Guyanese, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali. The Head of State, in an address, focused on key sectors and how programmes and policies will impact the lives of families. Emphasis was placed on agricul-

ture and food security, ICT, health, education, infrastructure, energy sustainability, tourism and small business support. He said, “The investments in the various sectors ultimately are about jobs, the creation of wealth, revenue and more disposable income for the people of the country.”

The President reminded that all of the vital attributes of Budget 2022 are geared towards laying the groundwork through which the de-

velopment and expansion of the country will take place.

“This is how a government takes care of the needs of its people,” Ali said.

To illustrate, he pointed to measures to be implemented in several sectors, including the energy sector, and the positive effects all of the planned interventions will have. He said, “No doubt, this is our greatest opportunity not only for energy security but for creating an (Turn to page 19)

Parks to be built in New Amsterdam and Corriverton T he sites where two recreational parks are set to be built in New Amsterdam and Corriverton in Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) were visited by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, over the weekend.

The Head of State noted that the parks will be constructed by the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, with collaboration from the private sector and the communities.

The family-friendly recreational parks will include enhanced safety zones for children and the elderly, seating areas, and green spaces.

Along with the site visits, the Head of State and three cabinet ministers joined members of the Regional Democratic Council, members of the private sector,

the Joint Services and residents at several locations for today’s clean-up activities, which included the cutting of grass and shrubs, clearing of the road shoulders and clearing of the drainage canals among other tasks.

The President called the exercise a necessity and pointed to the need to bring awareness to the new culture the Government wants to create. He said, “This is a type of effort that really ignites the type of change you want to see….We want to enhance the beauty of our country, and that beauty must come from the way we think, the way we act, the way we behave—the way we treat our environment”.

Over 50 trees were planted along the road on the eastern end of the Berbice Bridge to enhance the aesthetics of the environment.

In addition, the lights along the road will be fixed, and more will be installed. Ali said, “By tonight, people will see an immediate impact and change in the general look of the area, the sense of safety and security and also the [Berbice] bridge will be helping in the maintenance of that investment… this is the type of change you would like to see, the type of environment you would like to live in, but more importantly, the type of environment that you’d like to leave for future generations”.

Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Zulfikar Mustapha; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, the Honourable Nigel Dharamlall and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, the Honourable Deodat Indar accompanied the Head of State.

12

WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

POSITIONS FROM VICE PRESIDENT

BHARRAT JAGDEO [Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo addressed several issues during an engagement with the local media corps on Thursday, February 3, 2022]

APNU+AFC Coalition fails to engage PPP/C in ‘contest of ideas’ – Jagdeo

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he anticipated contest of ideas and vision – a policy discussion – during the debates on Budget 2022 has not materialized in the last four days, considering the positions taken by APNU+AFC Coalition’s Parliamentarians in the National Assembly, according to Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo.

Offering clarity on the PPP/C’s positions, during a news conference on Thursday (February 3, 2022), he noted that the financial policy of the two main political parties has been and remains very different – with the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) led APNU+AFC Coalition embracing a policy that is consumption-based, which focuses on taxation and spending in areas that did not support long term national growth and development.

On the other hand, the PPP/C policy’s is focused on positioning the country for the future, with capital spending – spending on roads, bridges, power plant, etc. – which will equate to long term growth and development.

Jagdeo said, “The numbers tell the story of the PPP/C government… we work to ensure the future wellbeing of the country… we are building for the future…investing the things that the country will be able to see and touch, not spend on things you will never see….if we want to progress as a country, the guiding financial policy – the big picture – is something we must pay attention to…over time the kind of spending APNU was engaged in, it builds up

“This budget seeks to balance addressing people’s livelihoods, creating jobs, expanding our economy, preparing for the future, as well as welfare – enhancing welfare of our people.”

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo focused on balancing development for the future with responding to the need of the Guyanese people.

– consuming everything we earn without thinking about the future.”

He added that the sound financial policy, which is focused on development and the future, has guided past PPP/C governments, as well as the current Administration, and will be extended to the use of Guyana oil revenues. “We made it clear, right from the beginning, we shall not make the mistakes of other countries – spending on things that will not bring benefits for our people… avoiding the dreaded ‘Dutch disease’.

He charged too that even without oil revenues, the last two budgets reflect, massive investment in the capital expenditure. Notably, Budget 2022 totals $552.9B and $126.7B of that sum is financed from oil revenues.

“Only 23 per cent of the budget is financed by oil revenues,” he said.

SPENDING PRIORITIES Taking aim at the PNCRled APNU+AFC Coalition’s

financial policy, he noted that their spending was focused on recurrent expenditures – vehicles, food, travel, etc.; and not on capital investments, which support growth and development.

Reviewing the numbers, Jagdeo pointed to the 2014 – the PPP/C’s last budget before the Coalition took office – and the 2016 budget – the first full year budget of the APNU+AFC Coalition which showed that: there was a 67 per cent increase in recurrent expenditures from $138B to $177B, while there was a massive decrease in capital expenditure from $81.1B to $52.1B. Each year after that, up to 2020, the recurrent expenditures increased from 2014 levels: $193.3B in 2017; $207.3B in 2018; $231.4B in 2019; and $257.4B in 2020.

At the same time, there was a decrease in capital expenditure from the 2014 levels of $81.1B: $56.7B in 2017; $59.7B in 2018; $69.2B in 2019; and $72B in 2020.

In contrast, the PPP/C has

PRO-POOR BUDGET Further, he waded into the APNU+AFC Coalition’s criticisms that Budget 2022 is not pro-poor and dubbed these comments as hypocritical, since the Coalition itself, while in government, did nothing to support ordinary Guyanese and their welfare.

“People’s welfare in this country is a great priority in this budget…we remain consistent to the pledges we made to people when we campaigned. We will fulfill our promises over our five year term in office.

He noted that: pensioners in 2022 have $72B more in their pocket compared to the Coalition’s last year in office; while the ‘We Care’ programmes puts $5B in the pockets of Guyanese; the uniform allowance adds another $600M; and public assistance adds some $840M to Guyanese. “In these four areas alone, Guyanese are benefitting from $14B,” he said.

According to him, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarships will see over 10,000 Guyanese receiving scholarships by the end of 2022

– half of the 20,000 promised in the PPP/C five year term.

Also, he stated that the 2000 Community Service Officers (CSO) who were rehired after the Coalition fired them and took away $700M from the Amerindian village economies will now see another 500 added and a total of $900M going back to the village economies. Further, with over 10,000 house lots distributed in 2021, another 30,000 is set for 2022 – 80 per cent of the 50,000 house lot that were promised in the PPP/C first five years.

Unforeseen challenges, he added, such as COVID-19 and flooding have also been responded to with direct cash support.

“It is the barefacedness that really troubles me; when people talk about pro-poor and in a single budget of theirs we saw the introduction of over 200 taxes… many of these were affecting poor people – the tax on data, water, electricity, etc.…when you look at the cumulative impact, it is about $50B. That is $50B less that our people pay in taxes,” Jagdeo said.

He added, “The rhetoric about being pro-poor and that the budget is all for rich people, it is utter nonsense, when you compare track records….the support to our local businesses is us level-

ling the playing field for our bidders and foreign bidders in the oil and gas sector. Our people were at a competitive disadvantage…this is part of correcting the wrong doing committed by APNU…. if you listen to them it is a budget for the wealthy, it is not. It is consistent with our policy.”

COST OF LIVING Addressing the concern of cost of living directly, the Vice President noted that some of the “imported inflation” would be difficult to address, but measures will be advanced, as far as possible, to ensure that cost of living is addressed.

Referring to the $5B set aside for intervention to respond to increase cost of living, Jagdeo explained that the interventions will be rolled out after consultation with the Guyanese people.

“This budget seeks to balance addressing people’s livelihoods, creating jobs, expanding our economy, preparing for the future, as well as welfare – enhancing welfare of our people,” Jagdeo declared.

Budget 2022 is 44.3 per cent larger than Budget 2022 and will see a 36.6 per cent increase in expenditure compared to the previous period.

PPP/C maintains positions on engagement with Coalition for fulfillment of constitutional obligations

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he PPP/C administration is “vindicated” in holding off engagements with the embattled Joseph Harmon, the now former Leader of the Opposition, according to Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

“I had said that engaging Mr. Harmon may be an exercise in futility, given that he did not seem to have a mandate from

his party and we were correct,” he said on Thursday (February 3, 2022), during a news conference.

He pointed out too that President Dr. Irfaan Ali had made it clear that he will engage the Parliamentary Opposition in the fulfillment of his constitutional duties and this applies to the need to constitute the outstand-

ing constitutional commissions.

Three of the constitutional commissions that are to be reconstituted will be by the end of next month, according Jagdeo.

He explained that the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), the Public Service Commission (PSC), the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) are expected to be appointed by the President

in line with the constitutional requirement.

He added that as it relates to the Police Service Commission, four names have been approved by the Parliamentary Committee of Appointments and once these are approved by the National Assembly, the President is expected to make the appointments.

On the subject of the Integrity Commission, Jagdeo noted that the PPP/C Administration is also eyeing a February 2022 date for the Commission to be operational. However, he noted that while the Commission is not in place, the Secretariat remains functional and the law on submission of declarations still applies. “You have to submit

…there is an obligation adn the law did not change….what APNU did was say that if there is no Commission in place, they would not submit, so APNU has not submitted for three years, 2016, 2017 and 2018….we have,” Jagdeo said.

A total of $11.72B has been allocated to the constitutional agencies for 2022.

13

WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

POSITIONS FROM VICE PRESIDENT

BHARRAT JAGDEO [Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo addressed several issues during an engagement with the local media corps on Thursday, February 3, 2022]

PPP/C wants constitutional reform process ‘triggered’ T

he next meeting of the Parliamentary Constitutional Reform Committee is scheduled for March 8, 2022 and will advance discussions on moving the process of constitutional reform forward, according to Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo.

At a news conference on Thursday (February 3, 2022), he noted that that the last meeting of the Committee, chaired by Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, was held on January 18, 2022, and moving forward a decision on the approach is expected to commence. “We want the process triggered,” he said.

He explained that the APNU+AFC Coalition’s approach to promised constitutional reform was “farcical” and the PPP/C remains committed to its manifesto promise. Jagdeo added that the PPP/C’s position is that the team leading the reform process be comprised of five persons from government, five from the Parliamentary Opposition and 10 from civil society.

Constitutional reform is one of the main issues outlined in the PPP/C elections manifesto. The Party has promised that it would advance constitutional reform

with the input of the citizens themselves. In its manifesto, it was noted that it was important that the people participate in something as critical as revising the supreme law.

The PPP/C 2020-2025 manifesto clearly states that the Party is “aware that issues concerning constitutional reform, particularly in relation to a national, inclusive governance model” have been raised and discussed in the public domain and is “committed” to a national participatory process to addressing a new governance model.

Decision on auctioning remaining oil blocks to be made within third quarter timeline

T

he previously announced timeline of the third quarter for 2022 for a decision on the auctioning of Guyana’s remaining oil blocks stands, according to Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a news conference on Thursday (February 3, 2022).

Jagdeo further explained that the issue of relinquishment is being addressed currently. Relative to new information, he stated that one way forward could be that an investment in a seismic study be made and the information used to increase the value of the remaining oil blocks; however, the downside is

that if the seismic data is not promising Guyana could lose. “We have to solve this issue,” he said.

As it is now, ExxonMobil is the primary operator of the Stabroek, Canje and Kaieteur blocks offshore Guyana. Further, CGX, together with Frontera Energy Corporation, operates the Corentyne and Demerara blocks, and also has a share in the Berbice block.

The Vice President disclosed that one suggestion that all the remaining blocks be vested in a national oil company, as many oil producing na-

tions have done, but the investment that would be needed to pursue exploration and production would be significant. “In this era it is difficult to raise the financing that would be needed,” he said.

A decision he assured will be made within the timeline announced last year.

“The decision will be made within the timeline,” he assured.

In the past, Jagdeo had called attention to the confusion regarding former APNU+AFC Coalition Government’s positions on the remaining oil blocks.

Reforms crucial for LGE, process to move forward soon – Jagdeo

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lectoral reform is seen as crucial for the holding of Local Government Elections, for which monies have been allocated in Budget 2022, and the government is expected to meet to review the submissions that have been made during an extended period of consultation.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, made the disclosure during a news conference on Thursday (February 3, 2022), where he added that it is expected that the process will move along within a month or so.

The amendments to the Representation of the People’s Act (ROPA), both the substantive act and the regulations were circulated on November 5, 2021 and the consultation process was expected to run for six weeks. The six-week period was extended.

Jagdeo stated that the many of the measures that are proposed could be implemented for the Local Government Elections. The measures he explained target, among other things, greater predictability in the selection and training of staff and the publication of results. “This is crucial for Local Government Elections.”

He explained that Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, has indicated that

some submissions are in and those will be used to move forward.

FOCUS OF REFORM Jagdeo, speaking at a news prior conference recently, had said, “The idea is to make more transparent and to define responsibilities in the Act that are unambiguous and… to put in place a set of penalties for people who may try to steal the elections…any right-thinking person will support that.

That’s the objective...we will look at issues right from registration to declaration of the results, so everything that is not unambiguous, not transparent etcetera. We made it clear that we want SoPs [Statements of Poll] in the public domain before the tabulation starts, that sort of thing. “…this is an open process…every person will have a chance to have an input. So, we are soliciting these views…APNU will get a chance to give their input there and several civil society organisations. And then when that’s done, a draft bill would be had, taking into account the input made and it will be presented to the parliament, where the Parliamentary Opposition will once again have an input…. when the debate takes place it will Guyanese who finally decide.”

FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS Also, in prior comments, the Vice President had said that the electoral reform process is necessary to ensure Local Government and other elections are conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.

He had said, “In that Act, which requires a simple majority to pass, there will be some key reforms, so there is no ambiguity in how things are conducted.

So, the areas which we have issues in are recruitment of staff… We have to build into the legislation a clear process for recruitment and placement of staff that is fair, open, transparent, random placement, so it favours none of the parties.”

Jagdeo added this should include substantial penalties, a clear definition of how recounts are to be conducted and publication of the Statements of Poll (SOPs) before tabulation begins. “A lot of changes along these lines will have to take place,” he said.

Guyanese were subject to a five-month wait for the final results from the March 2020 General and Regional Elections because of the actions of several persons involved in the process at the GECOM Secretariat and other elements.

First meeting of LCDS Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee set for February 14th

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onsultation sessions on the draft Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 with various interest groups have been ongoing, according to Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

And he announced that the first meeting of the Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee (MSSC) is scheduled for February 14, 2022.

The Committee includes representatives from the: Guyanese Organisation of Indigenous Peoples Amerindian People’s Association; National Amerindian Development Foundation; Amerindian Action Movement of Guyana

(TAAMOG); Private Sector Commission; Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana; Forest Producers Association; Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association; Ministry of Human Services and Social Security; the Guyana Forestry Commission; Guyana Geology& Mines Commission; and six key ministries.

The public has four months to provide comments and ask questions on the current LCDS draft. Government intends to finalise the document by March 2022.

Launched by President Dr. Irfaan Ali in October 2021, the draft Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030

was expected to be finalised after a four-month consultation (November 2021-Feburary 2022).

The document can be accessed at the following website: https://lcds.gov.gy/ The draft LCDS 2030 is expected to create a newlow-carbon economy in Guyana by establishing incentives which value the world’s ecosystem services, and promoting these as an essential component of a new model of global development with sustainability at its core.

In Guyana’s case, harnessing the value of the country’s ecosystem services can build a long-term, low- carbon diversification opportunity.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

PARLIAMENT HAPPENINGS UNDER REVIEW THE PPP/C’ S LEGISLATIVE AGENDA, MORE

Coalition’s motion targeting PPP/C MPs dismissed T

he APNU+AFC Coalition’s effort to target the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Members of Parliament (MPs) was scuttled

by House Speaker, Manzoor Nadir.

A no-holds barred Nadir made clear that the Coalition “cannot bring a legal action for a legal action” that they occasioned in the first placed.

“The motion will not proceed because a prima facie case was not established,” he said during the Monday (January 31, 2022)

sitting.

The Coalition’s motion called for 22 PPP/C MPs to be sent to the Parliamentary Privileges Committee to face sanctions for the disruption that took place at the December 29, 2021 sitting.

BUNGLED EFFORT However, when the Coalition’s motion was moved in the House at the January 24, 2022 sitting of the House, the APNU+AFC Coalition bungled its own attempt to advance a

motion to send over 20 PPP/C Parliamentarians to the Parliamentary Privileges Committee.

The Speaker explained that the Coalition motion to PPP/C Parliamentarians to the Parliamentary Privileges Committee was submitted to the National Assembly under the heading ‘Office of the Opposition Leader – Press Statement’. The mistake was brought to the attention of Opposition Chief Whip, Christopher Jones, who was unable to resubmit in a timely manner. Nadir said the

Coalition’s motion was resubmitted just under an hour before the Monday (January 24, 2022) sitting was scheduled to commence and, as such, could not be reviewed and placed on the agenda. “A review of the contents of the motion will be done at a later point,” Nadir said.

The Coalition’s motion was signed by Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon, and seconded by the Opposition Chief Whip.

SANCTIONS

The motion from the Parliamentary Opposition followed one that was advanced by the PPP/C Government’s Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, which was approved by the House Speaker. As such, eight APNU+AFC Coalition Members of Parliament were sent to the Parliamentary Privileges Committee.

The Coalition Parliamentarians facing sanctions are: Christopher Jones, the Opposition Chief Whip; Ganesh Mahipaul; Sherod Duncan; Natasha Singh- Lewis; Annette Ferguson; Vinceroy Jordan; Tabitha Saraboo-Halley; and Maureen Philadelphia.

In an effort derail the debating and passing of the Natural Resources Fund Bill, the Parliamentary Opposition hijacked the sitting – blowing whistles and chanting – while its MPs, Ferguson and Jordan, attempted to seize this ceremonial symbol. Other Opposition MPs attempted to do the same too, in the presence of the entire National Assembly.

Also, Opposition MPs ambushed the control room of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) and wildly unplugged the connections in the electrical systems room, which led to an internet disconnection and audio failures. Members of Parliament who had joined processions virtually were even disconnected from the feed as a consequence of this. The Coalition’s Saraboo-Halley was named as responsible for this.

Further, a parliament staffer, Ean McPherson, was as-

saulted. He has since moved to the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) with a complaint.

McPherson, in prior interview, explained that in his attempts to protect the mace, not only was he verbally abused by members of the Opposition, but he was also physically assaulted.

“I held on to the mace and it was fling to the floor… and I overheard people screaming.

“Kick he! Lash He! Drag He! Let’s Throw he over the rail.

All I said, was throw me over the rails because I know when I’m going over the rail, I am going with the mace,” he said.

“They throw me on the ground, they kicked me, they dragged me outside and then Ms. Philidelphia, Member of Parliament start to abuse me with a series of words like ‘House Salve’, but the one that caught me and I don’t know how I become a ‘House Negro’. So, I prepared a letter and I dropped it upstairs and I showed my concern about how I was treated,” McPherson added. In addition to Philadelphia, the Coalition’s Singh-Lewis was also named as being responsible.

Teixeira’s in her motion noted that the actions represented “gross disorderly conduct” and “contempt and breaches of privilege” by Opposition Parliamentarians, and such abhorrent actions cannot be condoned.

Notably, the incumbent PPP/C Government holds 33 seats in the National Assembly, while the Opposition – APNU+AFC Coalition – holds 31 seats and the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) holds one seat.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

PARLIAMENT HAPPENINGS UNDER REVIEW THE PPP/C’ S LEGISLATIVE AGENDA, MORE

Budget debate concludes on Feb 4th

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he Parliamentary debates on Budget 2022, which was presented by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, on January 26, 2022, are set to be concluded today, with a rebuttal from Singh to be the final presentation.

Between Monday (January 31, 2022) and Thursday (Feb-

ruary 3, 2022), a total of 54 speakers made contributions to the debate.

Today’s session is expected to feature the frontbenchers considered to be the ‘heavy hitters’ for the PPP/C Government and Opposition. The speakers include: 1. Minister Hugh Todd

2. Catherine Hughes 3. Minister Nigel Dharamlall 4. Roysdale Forde 5. Minister Collin Croal 6. Minister Gail Teixeira 7. Attorney General/Minister Anil Nandlall 8. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo 9. Joseph Harmon

10. Prime Minister Mark Phillips Deputy Speaker, Lennox Shuman, is expected to kick off the final day of debates.

Budget 2022 is 44.3 per cent larger than Budget 2022 and will see a 36.6 per cent increase in expenditure compared to the previous period.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

APNU+AFC’s Nicolette Henry out as Parliamentarian

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ormer education minister and APNU+AFC Coalition’s Nicolette Henry, is out as a Member of Parliament, paving the way for People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Leader, Aubrey Norton, to enter the House and take up the post as Opposition Leader.

Henry made the admission on Wednesday (February 2, 2022), during her contribution to the debates on Budget 2022. “This is my final budget presentation

in this Honourable House,” she said.

Reports are that Henry was one of nine who were being asked to resign or face being recalled from Parliament.

In addition to his move to cop the post of Opposition Leader, Norton has taken control of the PNCR and APNU – the grouping of the PNCR and a few other smaller parties.

Former president, David Granger, who was chairman

of APNU resigned from the post under pressure. Also resigning from APNU was Joseph Harmon, who had served as General Secretary.

Both resignations took place on January 25, 2022. Further, Harmon also resigned as Opposition Leader on January 26, 2022. However, he remains a Member of Parliament.

The move followed months of power struggle and infighting within the PNCR/ APNU/AFC grouping.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Ramjattan disconnected from reality Dear Editor,

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he GAWU has taken note of Mr Khemraj Ramjattan’s contribution to the 2022 Budget debate in respect of the sugar industry.

According to media reports, Mr Ramjattan used the parliamentary platform to continue his jaundiced criticism of the Government’s support to the industry. One report indicated that Mr Ramjattan had justified the Coalition’s

miniaturization of the industry as he went on labelling State support as throwing monies into a black hole.

It is unfortunate that Mr Ramjattan continues to operate apparently with blinkers.

For the erstwhile gentleman who hails from the Corentyne coast where sugar is one of the predominant economic activities and makes a major contribution to that part of the country, it appears that Mr Ramjattan has clearly lost

touch with reality and lives seemingly in an ivory tower disconnected from the truth. So far, the Opposition MP, despite his huffing and puffing, cannot advance any plan to address any displacement brought about by the closure of estates. Certainly, one would have expected him and his colleagues to have developed such a plan when, like peacocks, they strutted down the corridors of power. Such plan it appears may have suffered a still birth. But yet Mr Ramjattan continues to bellyache.

Of course the importance of the sugar industry has been re-emphasized by the socio-economic study conducted by the ILO. That report, empirically, demonstrated that hardships that were spawned when Mr Ramjattan and his colleagues heartlessly closed four (4) estates and placed 7,000 of our Guyanese brothers and sisters on the breadline. It demonstrates that miserableness these Guyanese faced and underscored the importance of the industry not only to the workers but entire communities. But Mr Ramjattan is unbothered

by such facts and chose to live in his own wonderland.

It seems Mr Ramjattan rather than considering the contributions of the sugar industry and its potentials for viability has doubled down on his caustic attitude towards sugar.

We remain at a loss as to why anyone who holds themselves out as a leader would seek to advocate that our ordinary people be made jobless and forced into miserable lives. For us it says a lot about the character of Mr Ramjattan and his colleagues who spare no opportunity to denounce the Government’s support to the sugar industry.

The GAWU, as the major voice of the workers in the industry, cannot allow such highly irresponsible statements to go without challenge. We remain strong in our position that sugar remains simply too important to fail.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine GAWU President

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Budget 2022 set to transform... (From page 22)

AFC closed four sugar estates, and brought poverty to more than 40,000 persons, those numbers mattered.

When bauxite workers, workers in the service industry and workers in forestry and mining, totaling more than 30,000 between 2015 and 2020 lost their jobs, those numbers mattered. When lease and drainage and irrigation rates for agriculture land increased, those numbers

mattered for the farmers and their families.

When more than 200 taxes were either newly introduced, like VAT for water, electricity, internet services, education, or were increased, the increased burden on the Guyanese people mattered.

When the housing program came to a screeching halt after 2015, the virtual zero house lots handed out is a number that mattered.

So, it is hard for APNU/ AFC to talk about taxes because they raised them, whereas Budget 2022 reduced taxes. It is difficult for APNU/AFC to criticize the increase in the school cash grant to $25,000 per child because they terminated that program. It is hard for APNU/AFC to call for more to be done for housing when they literally ended the housing program. It is difficult

for APNU/AFC to genuinely criticize the $30,000 per month for CSOs, when they ended that program. APNU/ AFC tried to make university fees a criticism. But the PPP had promised that by the end of 2025, UG fees will be phased out.

On the other hand, APNU/AFC had promised before 2015 they would have ended UG fees in their first year. Instead, they increased

it. Numbers matter, they do not lie. The last persons who should invoke this cliché are the Opposition MPs because in Budget debate 2022, this works against them. It is the reason why when the Minister of Housing announced that this year a minimum 5,000 new house lots will be developed, it is hard for the opposition to argue because this is many times more than they were able to deliver in

five years. When this year more than 5,000 scholarships are to be delivered, what can the opposition do when this is far more than they delivered in five years?

Numbers matter, they do not lie. Budget 2022 delivers numbers that show Guyana is on a development trajectory that will transform our country to look like, feel like and deliver like a high middleincome country.

WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

Budget 2022 creates vital linkages between... (From page 11) energy platform that would bring the jobs of the future… imagine how many jobs will be created during and after construction of our hydro and natural gas energy facilities; imagine what a reduction of 50% in your electricity costs will do for you; imagine what our new shorelines will look like; imagine what our own agrochemical plant will do; imagine what our own fertiliser plant will do for the

agriculture sector; imagine what our own LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) plant will do. Well, my friends, 2022 brings that imagination to life – as the seeds are now planted to realise all of this.”

The Head of State also explained the impacts of several projects and investments, including the $6b allocated to GuySuCo, which he said transcends sugar production.

He said, “The transfer of this

$6 billion would be directly supporting thousands of jobs and directly and indirectly supporting tens of thousands of jobs for tens of thousands of families. That is what is important, not only the investment, how it is linked to supporting an industry that creates jobs, that sustains jobs. Importantly, these are jobs that were not there prior to August 2, 2020.”

President Ali called on

all citizens to recognise that not only is this our greatest opportunity for the transformation of our country but to recognise that Budget 2022 paves the way for that development. Ali said, ‘This is how Budget 2022 affects the lives of people directly, affects the lives and communities directly; this is how it is linked to the people directly, that it is why it is a people-centred budget. This

is the power of Budget 2022; this is the power that Budget 2022 gives to the people; this is the energy that Budget 2022 brings to the country and its people. This is how it is linked to you, my brothers and sisters; this is how it is linked to you fellow Guyanese; this is how you can relate to Budget 2022.”

Guyanese were also urged to recognise that the development agenda is not

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only geared towards physical transformation but towards a holistic development. “So my dear Guyanese brothers and sisters, I just wanted us all to have a greater appreciation as to how this budget is related to our day-to-day lives, how this budget is related to our communities, how this budget is related to our country, the development, the forward trajectory, where we want to take it,” Ali said.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 5-6 FEBRUARY, 2022

COM M ENTARY

Budget 2022 set to transform Guyana ‒ the numbers matter, they do not lie

By Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

T

he debates on Budget debate 2022, a five day exercises, concluded on Friday (February 4, 2022).

Never has there been such a one-sided budget debate in the Parliament of Guyana.

The Government Members of Parliament (MPs) have so far defended Budget 2022 with passion, competence, expertise, showing they did their homework, demonstrating they understand the objective of Budget 2022.

The opposition MPs so far have mostly depended on histrionics, trying to outdo each other in who is the most

inept and clueless. If this was a debate in which points are awarded on a scale of 0 to 10, the Government MPs that have so far completed their presentation rank between 7 and 10. On the other hand, the opposition MPs are struggling between 0 and 1.

Their presentations vary from obnoxious to clueless.

The Opposition MPs were so confused on Tuesday (February 1, 2022), they decided they needed to boycott somebody, just so they can be seen as a robust Opposition.

As ridiculous as it appears, the APNU/AFC MPs boycotted the budget debate presentation by the Leader of the

AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan.

Remember when Ramjattan predicted before 2015 that should the AFC join with the PNC, they would be “dead meat”? By now everyone in the AFC and every Guyanese paying any attention know that Ramjattan was correct because the AFC became “dead meat” almost instantly on Valentine’s Day 2015 when the AFC joined the PNC. But now, increasingly, Ramjattan’s prediction is also befalling him; his own political career is “dead meat”.

Ramjattan sits in Parliament a lonely, depressed, confused soul. He is now betrayed by and rejected by his comrades, the very ones he conspired with most recently to rig the election results.

By Wednesday (February 2, 2022), the confusion, the total ineptness of the opposition during this most critical time in the parliament became even more obvious.

The in-fighting between the PNC/APNU/AFC for positions made it way to the National Assembly when Nicolette Henry announced that she is resigning as an MP – paving the way for PNCR leader, Aubrey Norton. The confusion and ineptness are clear.

In just two days of debates, the Opposition MPs twisted themselves like an American pretzel in order to find fault with Budget 2022.

They have had a difficult time trying to do so. Before the debate started, the opposition

political party, in this case, APNU/AFC, or to be more accurate, the PNC, said very little in between the reading of the budget two Wednesdays ago and the start of the debate this past Monday.

Clearly, they were confused and in search of a way to poke holes in the budget. Not unexpectedly, the speakers representing APNU/AFC, thus far, appeared confused, totally clueless and they clearly exposed that APNU/ AFC came to the debate without any party position.

Before the debate in the PNC’s only response, to Budget 2022, was from its hand-picked General Secretary, who could only say that Budget 2022 was not “fit for purpose” – being unable to give even one reason why Budget 2022 was not “fit for purpose”.

After three days and most of the opposition MPs having already spoken, the Guyanese people are still awaiting the arguments to show the budget is not “fit for purpose”.

One would have thought that they would come with some even half-baked arguments towards the theme of “not fit for purpose”. Yet deep into the debate, not one argument, not one specific example has been presented to show the budget is “not fit for purpose”.

The shadow foreign affairs minister, MP Amanza Walton Desir, started the debate on behalf of her colleagues. Her main point was that “numbers matter, they do not lie”. She is, of course, right and the government MP, Ms. Yvonne Pearson, following up later, reaffirmed that “numbers matter, they do not lie”. But what were the numbers the APNU/AFC shadow minister for foreign affairs brought forward to demonstrate the budget was not “fit for purpose”? The number one “numbers” she focused on was that the $218 B allocated for infrastructural development was too large because Guyana has no capacity to utilize such large sums of money. In the process, she insulted every Guyanese contractor, large and small, every Guyanese worker. But she also failed to identify which of the projects she would eliminate to reduce the $218 B infrastructural development plan the government has proposed. Would she eliminate the six brand

new hospitals that would start construction in 2022, the Linden to Mabura Road that starts the construction of the Linden to Lethem Highway, the road from Temerhi to Bartica, Amaila Hydro-electricity, the many housing schemes or the community roads, the hospitality institution, the Health Training Institute, the upgrading of the Port Mourant Training Institute to start training Guyanese for the Oil and Gas industry or any of the new schools being built? It is insulting for MP Walton-Desir to conclude that the budget is not “fit for purpose” because its allocation is $85B would be wasted without telling the nation how she came to that conclusion.

In her confusion, however, Walton-Desir forgot that the declaration “numbers matter, they do not lie” is one that explains why APNU/ AFC, the PNC in another name, having been given a chance to govern between 2015 and 2020, squandered that opportunity.

The numbers are there to show how they squandered their opportunity and the numbers do not lie. When more than 200,000 school children were denied their $10,000 per child cash grant in the Because We Care initiative, those numbers mattered because the grant was a cherished one for thousands of Guyanese families, many of whom are supporters of APNU/AFC. When APNU/AFC stopped the One Laptop Per Family initiative, they took away a valued asset from poor families. Those PNC supporters among those poor families had no reason to continue supporting APNU/ AFC. When they failed to expand the school feeding program, failed to provide school books, did not keep their promise to make UG free, when they increased the fees for UG, stop the solar panel for families in the hinterland, those numbers mattered and people voted against APNU/AFC. When APNU/AFC terminated the contracts of more than 2,000 community service officers (CSOs) in Amerindian communities, those numbers mattered to the Amerindian people. When more than 7,000 sugar workers lost their jobs because APNU/ (Turn to page 18)

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Health Minister outlines effects of long-COVID G

uyana has recorded a number of cases of the long-term effects of the coronavirus (long COVID) since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, according to Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony.

To prevent this, he is urging persons to ensure they are fully vaccinated and boosted. Dr. Anthony explained that SARSCoV-2 can affect almost any part of the body. He said symptoms of longCOVID can develop when a person is infected with the disease or even after recovery. “Most people are aware of COVID pneumonia, and that’s what a lot of people were having

especially when we had the delta variant circulating.

COVID pneumonia would prevent you from breathing properly, that’s why we had to put a lot of people on ventilators,” he stated.

Long COVID is a term used to describe the effects of Covid-19 that continue for weeks or months beyond the initial illness. Dr. Anthony said long-COVID could also cause damage to the kidney, heart ailments and temporary memory loss. Some persons were also diagnosed with diabetes after they recovered from the virus.

To address this issue, the health ministry has established a “multi-disci-

plinary” medical team at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to treat and manage patients with long-COVID. “Within the Georgetown Public Hospital, we have a multi-disciplinary team that has been established so that when we identify patients with longCOVID they can come, and depending on the symptoms that they are showing, the relevant specialists will be able to help them with the relevant care and management,” Dr. Anthony said.

Meanwhile, the minister is cautioning citizens not to become complacent, as persons can still become hospitalised with the Omicron variant.

COVID-19 boosters may soon be required for ‘fully vaxxed’ status

W

Study confirms that omicron subvariant BA.2 more infectious than 'original' (Reuters) - The BA.2 subvariant of the Omicron coronavirus variant, which has quickly taken over in Denmark, is more transmissible than the more common BA.1 and more able to infect vaccinated people, a Danish study has found.

The study, which analysed coronavirus infections in more than 8,500 Danish households between December and January, found that people infected with the BA.2 subvariant were roughly 33% more likely to infect others, compared to those infected with BA.1.

Worldwide, the "original" BA.1 subvariant accounts for more than 98% of Omicron cases, but its close cousin BA.2 has quickly become the dominant strain in Denmark, dethroning BA.1 in the second week of January.

"We conclude that Omicron BA.2 is inherently substantially more transmissible

than BA.1, and that it also possesses immune-evasive properties that further reduce the protective effect of vaccination against infection," the study's researchers said.

The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, was conducted by researchers at Statens Serum Institut (SSI), Copenhagen University, Statistics Denmark and Technical University of Denmark.

"If you have been exposed to Omicron BA.2 in your household, you have 39% probability of being infected within seven days. If you instead had been exposed to BA.1, the probability is 29%," lead study author Frederik Plesner told Reuters. That suggests BA.2 is around 33% more infectious than BA.1, he added.

BA.2 cases have also been registered in the United States, Britain, Sweden and Norway, but to a much lesser extent than in Denmark,

where it accounts for roughly 82% of cases. read more The study also showed that BA.2 was relatively better than BA.1 at infecting vaccinated and booster-vaccinated people, indicating greater "immune evasive properties" of the subvariant.

But vaccines still played an important role, the study underlined, since both booster-vaccinated and fully vaccinated individuals were less like to get infected and transmit either subvariants, compared to those not vaccinated.

Preliminary analysis by SSI has shown that there is no difference in the risk of hospitalisation for BA.2 compared to BA.1. read more The study also confirms preliminary analysis from England, which showed BA.2 appears to have a substantial growth advantage over the BA.1 type, according to Britain's UK Health Security Agency.

ith the increased transmission of the Omicron variant, resulting in spiralling positive cases, hospitalisation and deaths across the world, some countries have moved to consider persons with three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, to be fully vaccinated.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony said Guyana will soon have to move in that direction, as the country continues to record an increase in coronavirus infections.

The minister continues to urge persons to get both doses of their vaccine

along with a booster shot at five months after taking the second jab. He said, “Please go and get your first dose, second dose and then your booster dose because unless you have completed all three, I don’t consider that you’ll be fully vaccinated…the world is moving from thinking about two doses as being fully vaccinated to now thinking about full vaccination as having three doses, so we have to move in that direction as well,” the minister said.

Dr. Anthony added, “with Omicron we know that unless you have three

doses you are still going to have challenges fighting off the virus, more so the more severe form of the virus.”

Additionally, Minister Anthony said approximately 75 percent of persons that were infected with COVID-19 have recovered.

He continues to appeal to citizens to take the necessary precautions and get vaccinated to reduce the spread of the virus. “People can help by reducing these number of cases if they take the precautions and we want to urge them to really take their precautions.”

One Guyana Commission to be established ‒ Ali said ‘environment of trust’ crucial for realizing vision

T

he PPP/C Government’s ‘One Guyana’ vision is about promoting greater inclusion at the legislative, political and social levels, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, during an engagement with more than 50 religious leaders from North America – the latest in a series of broad-based

engagements At Wednesday’s (February 2, 2022) meeting, he said, “No government has all the answers. It is my wish to be able to benefit from the viewpoints of all, including our political parties, trade unions, private sector, workers and social organisations.

‘One Guyana’ is, therefore, a

social contract of inclusion.”

The President reiterated that the ‘One Guyana’ vision is about creating a more equal society, guaranteeing that everyone is afforded the opportunity to lead productive and happy lives as well as reducing inequality in access to education, health, employment, income and

justice. ‘One Guyana’ vision, in this regard, aims to ensure that every citizen is accorded a dignified existence and with due respect for their rights and with equality before the law.”

Important to realising the vision, he added, is building an environment of trust.

During the interactive session, President Ali emphasised that while the vi-

sion encompasses the entirety of Guyana, the diaspora is also included. As such, he pledged to continue to engage with them not only to tap into their skills for national development but to ensure greater integration in national decision-making.

ROLE OF THE RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY President Ali acknowledged the important role the religious community has to play in fashioning the ‘One Guyana’ vision and said that he was ready to work with them. He said, “You are the custodians of morality, and you can help people to appreciate their moral and social obligations. The religious community also must lead the way in promoting social harmony, particularly through encouraging greater tolerance and understanding and through respect for our multicultural diversity.”

He also told the religious leaders that he would continue to engage with them and would look to address any concerns that may arise. The leaders assured the Head of State that, as a community, they will make their contributions and stand behind the vision of ‘One Guyana’.

Following the discourse, an outcome document will be prepared and shared with the President to guide further discussions.

BUDGET 2022 ALLOCATION Budget 2022 caters for the establishment of the One Guyana Commission.

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, in his presentation to the House on January 26, 2022, said, “The governance architecture of this Government is based firmly on inclusivity, participation, transparency and accountability, and the rule of law. It is grounded in the concept and policy thrust of a One Guyana….Budget 2022 anticipates the establishment of the One Guyana Commission in 2022.”

The establishment of the One Guyana Commission is a critical pillar of the emerging, new Guyana, Singh declared.

The One Guyana Commission, which will be established, seeks to give voice and recognition to all social groups in our society regard-

less of political affiliation, race, religion, or gender.

Under the ‘One Guyana’ vision, all will benefit from Guyana’s resources and that social groups including women, indigenous peoples and young people will be empowered.

In February 2021, President Ali had announced the establishment of a ‘One Guyana Commission’, which will be spearheaded

by Prime Minister, (rtd) Brigadier, Mark Phillips. Ali had said, “An essential part of my Government is inclusion. Stop being defined by race; stop being defined by politics. Start being defined by our one nationality and by our common love for our one country, let us lift it up together and by doing so, let us lift each other and ourselves, one people, one nation, one destiny…I propose to give meaning to my call for one Guyana by requesting the leader of Government business in the National Assembly, Prime Minister Brigadier, Hon. Mark Phillips to introduce the adoption of an Act of Parliament establishing a One Guyana Commission which he will head….we must move our nation building from abstraction to action and lose not one more moment in doing it. Let us stand up for our one nation, our one Guyana, let us stand up for what we know in our hearts and in our minds to be right. Let us stand up for one identity, the Guyanese identity.” President Ali had said the work of the Commission will be undertaken countrywide to encapsulate the free expressions of all voices, respecting the diversity “from which our oneness springs.” The Commission will also address education concerning Guyana’s history, religion, ensuring equal opportunity, employment and entrepreneurship and institutional strengthening of the Ethnic Relations Commission. The President appealed to Guyanese to continue supporting the effort to advance the transformation that has begun – recognizing that “we are stronger together” as a people. “Each of us must resolve to be stronger, better, and more committed to individual, family, community, and country development,” Ali declared.

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