Issuu

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 12, 2018

NO.0013

Women top national awardees

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Guyana bullish on rice trade to Cuba

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EU aid boosting water, electricity sectors

MODERN POLICE STATION OPENED IN LINDEN

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Guyana bullish on rice trade to Cuba

…sees export growth in lumber, other commodities AS part of the execution of the economic diplomacy thrust presently engaging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guyana is seeking to expand trade relations with Cuba in a move that has resulted in millions of dollars in exports to the Spanish-speaking Caribbean island. Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba, Halim Majeed, disclosed that the amount of rice exported in 2018, for instance, has more than quadrupled when compared to last year. “In 2017, we

sold 15,500 tonnes of rice to Cuba; this year, so far, we sold more than 70, 000 tonnes. Our target is to see whether we can export up to 125, 000 tonnes by the end of this year,” Majeed was quoted in a release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as saying. He labelled the growth in exports a “significant breakthrough” for Guyana’s rice. Meanwhile, exports in lumber and other products to Cuba amounted to some US $1.2M or an equivalent of GY $240M last year. As

of June this year, that figure expanded to US $1.9M. “We are now trying to see how we can export other products to Cuba such as fruits and vegetables, meat, and paints,” the Guyanese diplomat revealed. He further stated that in a recent meeting, representatives of the Guyana Forest Products Association recorded an interest in having a more organised mechanism of trade in lumber and shingles with Cuba. According to the ministry, economic diplomacy has been cited as critical

Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba, His Excellency Halim Majeed

to Guyana’s progress and has taken centre stage in the state’s relationship with many countries, since the 2016 appointment of new heads of overseas missions. Guyana and Cuba established diplomatic relations on December 8, 1972. The two countries share a strong bilateral relationship, which has been characterised by many exchanges at the government level and cooperation under the Guyana/Cuba Joint Commission. Trade is a renewed dimension of the decades-old friendship.

EU aid boosting water, electricity sectors THE European Union has been supporting transformation of the electricity and water sectors here with the injection of much-needed funds, the latest being a USD 40.4 Million grant through the Caribbean Investment Facility to address priority needs of the sectors. In a release, the EU said in October 2014, it teamed up with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and committed to support the efforts of the Government of Guyana to improve the quality and delivery of reliable water supply; and also to strengthen the reliability and efficiency of electricity service delivery. In this regard, representatives of both organisations had met at IDB headquarters in Washington DC on October 10, 2014, to sign the loan and investment grant agreement with the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. According to the release, at the time and in the framework of the agreement, the EU had contributed to the partnership with USD 7.49 Million towards the Power Utility Upgrade Programme (PUUP), and USD 6.3 Million towards the Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure Improvement Programme (WSSIIP). These funds were disbursed to the IDB to act as the contracting authority for works under the PUUP and WSSIIP. In September 2018, additional payments from the EU’s contribution

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videti

totalling USD 17.3 Million, were disbursed to the IDB towards the Power Utility Upgrade Programme (PUUP), and Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure Improvement Programme (WSSIIP). In recognising the delivery of the EU grant disbursement, EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videti? highlighted that both the EU and the IDB recognised the need to assist Guyana’s further development through investments in the energy

and water sectors and therefore allocated USD 40.4 Million through the Caribbean Investment Facility to address the priority needs of the sectors. Videti? stressed that in the energy sector, work will focus on strengthening the management capacity of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL); increasing operational efficiency and reducing commercial and technical losses. This will necessitate the rehabilitation of distribution lines network in Georgetown

and Region IV and will benefit the population living in the coastland Regions IV and V. He further added that in the water sector, work on strengthening the performance of the Guyana Water Incorporated, improving water pressure, quality and continuity of supply as well as reducing non-revenue water losses will be undertaken. The EU Ambassador highlighted that an important aspect will be an improved access to sanitation for low-income households; the construction of three new water treatment plants at Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara, Sheet Anchor in Berbice and Uitvlugt on the West Coast of Demerara, coupled with major rehabilitation works of the water treatment plant at Shelterbelt, Georgetown is also part of the project. At least 55,300 households will benefit from upgraded access to drinking water. The European Union approved the creation of the Caribbean Investment Facility (CIF) on April 30, 2012. The purpose of the CIF is to strengthen Caribbean regional integration and to foster investments in key infrastructure in the Caribbean, with a particular focus on the energy, environment, climate change mitigation and adaptation, transport and social infrastructure sectors. These projects are the first to be funded under the CIF programme. The collaboration is part of

the EU’s Innovative Financial Instruments commonly called ‘blending,’ which is an instrument for achieving the EU’s external policy objectives, complementary to other aid modalities and pursuing the relevant regional, national and overarching policy priorities. The principle of the mechanism is to combine EU grants with loans or equity from public and private financiers. In parallel, several thematic initiatives are supported through blending, with special focus on inclusive and sustainable private sector development. The Electrification Financing Initiative (ElectriFI) aims at accelerating access to electricity and modern energy services through intervention at the development stage of a project, Agriculture Financing Initiative (AgriFI)’s objective is to unlock, accelerate and leverage investments with a value-chain approach, focusing on smallholder’s inclusiveness and/or MSME agri-business and Climate Finance Initiative supports identification and piloting of innovative climate finance instruments to mobilise private development finance.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Modern police station opened in Linden

By Vanessa Braithwaite ‘E’ Division ranks can now better serve the communities of Region 10 in a $117M spanking new two-storey, police station, located at Mackenzie, Linden, which will also serve as the headquarters of ‘E’ Division (Upper Demerara Upper Berbice). The modern facility is community-based and will give the citizens of the region a better opportunity to file reports, especially sensitive reports where the need for confidentiality is high. The new building is part of the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) remodelling programme and has a special room for domestic violence cases which will accommodate children, a witness protection room, a

service and protection to residents since the ranks will be better able to serve them in the new, spacious, modern and comfortable facility. He expressed gratitude to the International Development Bank (IDB) for funding such a project which shows institutional strengthening. “The modern design adopted for the rehabilitation of the rebuilding of the 12 police stations, support the notion of putting victims and witnesses first, we have to prioritise, because they are the people who ought to be the beneficiaries of a good police station” Ramjattan said. IMPROVED ENVIRONMENT The degraded conditions result in degraded perfor-

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan cuts the ceremonial ribbon of the new ‘E’ Division Head Quarters. Looking on to his left is Commissioner of Police Leslie James, and to his immediate right, IDB Country Representative Sophie McKhonen and outgoing ‘E’ Division Commander, Anthony Vanderhyden

The new two-storey Mackenzie Police Station

case management room that will be fully automated, a public management room, a listening room, rooms with one way glass for suspect identification and training room for ranks. The building will also be powered by solar energy. Commissioning the building was Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan who handed over the ceremonial keys to Senior Superintendent Linden Lord, who was also newly-appointed to the ‘E’ Division. In his feature address, Minister Ramjattan said the building serves to provide

mances and therefore, he said, “that is why we want to improve, upgrade, ameliorate all police stations in the country and we are on that journey, we want to also provide a confidential environment for those who want to make their statements to the police about the crimes they have seen… we need that kind of confidential environment. “When the Guyana Police Force recommended this station for rehabilitation, the intention was to remodel and improve, not rebuild a complete new station; however, the dilapidated state of the building was noted and

the decision was to rebuild a band new police station and today we have it there.” Ramjattan noted that the government is investing $1.18B for the refurbishing of stations countrywide. “Government will continue to mobilise more resources so that the police can provide to the people of Guyana with the resources that they deserve. Some of the police stations that were rehabilitated in 2018 were Parfaite Harmonie, New Amsterdam, Lethem and Mathew’s Ridge police stations. Our goal is to strengthen police capability, so that the police have enough resources to carry

Sophie McKhonen noted that the IDB will continue to support institutional capacity building, improved governance and citizen security through the effective prevention of crime and violence. The IDB will fund the rehabilitation of 18 police stations with $380M. Twelve of these have been completed. These include Kwakwani, Annai, Aishalton, La Grange, Cane Grove, Suddie, Mabaruma and Port Kaituma. The physical appearance of a police station is important, McKhonen said, since it affects the sense of security of community members. She is also pleased that the new police stations will, more effectively, tackle gender-based violence since these victims

A section of the audience at the commissioning ceremony

out their functions which are stability, security, rooting out corruption and transforming the Police Force as an institution, to one that is efficient, disciplined and professional so that it can help in the maintenance and updating of the duties that they perform.” Ramjattan is urging the ranks that will be utilising the building to do so with professionalism, honesty and integrity and to pay particular attention to the maintenance of it. Commissioner of Police Leslie James said the Police Force is very appreciative of the strides taken by the government in ensuring the improvement of standards

within the Force and ensuring the safety of the citizenry. Giving an overview of the Citizen Security Sector Reform Programme was Dr. Clement Henry who said that the overall aim is to strengthen capacity with the Force and the community at large. The programme has three components which are improving community resilience in responding to crime, strengthening capacity by offering entrepreneurial training and the rehabilitation and the reintegration of the Guyana Prison Service. CONTINUED SUPPORT IDB Country Manager,

can now report their cases in confidentiality. Female officers will also be accommodated at the new stations. Also present at the commissioning ceremony were other senior ranks of the Guyana Police Force including Deputy Commissioner, Maxine Grahame, outgoing Commander, Anthony Vanderhyden, former commander who oversaw the commencement of the project, Fazil Karimbaksh, Regional Chairman, Renis Morian and Deputy Mayor, Wainwright Bethune.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Billions budgeted for constitutional agencies …House to consider estimates next Thursday

THE National Assembly is expected to consider the 2019 Budget proposals of Constitutional Agencies when it reconvenes next Thursday at the Public Buildings. According to the National Assembly’s Order Paper, which was released on Thursday, for the 97th Sitting of the National Assembly of the 11TH Parliament, approximately $1.845B has been proposed for the Parliament Office for Current and Capital expenditures for the period ending December 31, 2019. For 2018, $1.739B was proposed. Approximately $894.2M has been proposed for the Office of the Auditor General while Current and Capital Estimates for the Public and Police Service Commission total $155.5M for the period ending December

2019. For 2018, $844.4M was proposed for the Auditor General’s Office while $158.7M was proposed for the Public and Police Service Commission. The Teacher Service Commission’s Current and Capital Estimates for 2019 total $113.3M compared to $125.1M proposed in 2018, while $6.368B has been proposed for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) compared to $3.7B proposed in 2018. In 2019, the Elections Commission would be preparing for the National and Regional Elections expected to occur in 2020. The Supreme Court of Judicature’s Current and Capital Estimates total $2.8B; the Chamber of Director of Public Prosecution’s proposed budget

has been set at $219.8M, the Office of the Ombudsman proposed budget has been set at $74.2M; and the Public Service Appellate Tribunal proposed budget at $62.8M. Other constitutional agencies whose proposed budgets will be considered during the Thursday sitting include: the Ethnic Relations Commission ($278.1M), the Judicial Service Commission ($10.02M), the Indigenous People’s Commission ($30.7M), the Human Rights Commission ($47.3M), the Rights of the Child Commission ($47.4M), Women and Gender Equality Commission ($45.2M) and the Public Procurement Commission ($276.7M) for the period ending 2019. It was in 2015 that the Fiscal Management and

Accountability (Amendment) Bill 2015 was passed in the National Assembly to allow for the financial independence of the various constitutional agencies. The consideration of the proposed budgets is in accordance with Section 3B (2) of the Fiscal Management and Accountability (Amendment) Act. It allows constitutional agencies to be given lump sums – a move that was intended to remove ruling politicians from using monies to influence the critical agencies. On Thursday, President David Granger is expected to address the Parliament on areas of national importance. The developing Oil and Gas Industry and the Guyana/ Venezuela Border Controversy are among areas the president is likely to cover.

Constitutional Bodies

Capital and Current Estimates Parliament Office $1,845,416,000 Office of the Auditor General $894,241,000 Public and Police Service Commission $155,596,000 Teaching Service Commission $113,362,000 Guyana Elections Commission $6,368,100,000 Supreme Court of Judicature $2,801,373,767 Chamber of the Director of Public Prosecution $219,824,000 Office of the Ombudsman $74,223,000 Public Service Appellate Tribunal $62,828,000 Ethnic Relations Commission $278,163,678 Judicial Service Commission $10,020,000 Indigenous People’s Commission $30,743,000 Human Rights Commission $47,378,000 Rights of the Child Commission $47,469,000 Women and Gender Equality Commission $45,292,000 Public Procurement Commission $276,775,000

$22.4 M water ambulance sets off in Orealla

A RIVER ambulance was on Wednesday handed over to the communities of Orealla and Siparuta on the Corentyne River. The boat ambulance is fully equipped with all the necessary medical equipment inclusive of an oxygen tank, heart monitors, stretcher and other equipment which will play a critical role in providing support in a fast and efficient manner until transfer to a hospital on the coast. Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence visited the community to formally hand over the ambulance and took the opportunity to interact with residents and at the same time check on the needs of the community doctor and health workers in the Village. Addressing residents at the Village Benab, Minister Lawrence noted the river ambulance is just about one of the services provided not only to Orealla/Siparuta but also to all hinterland communities in an effort to provide better access and equality in the delivery of health care. “Guyana is on the move; we will continue to

Minister of Public Health on Thursday commissioned this $22.4M water ambulance for the riverine communities of Orealla and Siparuta (Nafeeza Yahya photo)

provide the necessary services and access to health, education and all other services which each and every one of us needs to live a daily life.” The minister highlighted that her ministry is not only focused on the present but believes in thinking ahead and as such she told those gathered

about plans to have a cottage hospital in the village. “We are not only thinking about now, we are not thinking about fixing a window or door only, we are thinking about how we can begin to project our plans to 2025-2030 and for these two communities we would like to at least see there’s a cottage

hospital here to service you instead of having to go down the river.” Minister Lawrence was accompanied by the Director of Regional Health Services, Jevaughn Stephens, Focal Point Coordinator and Advisor to Minister of Health, Alex Foster and a team of

regional health officials. The minister also pointed out that a medical team will be visiting the community before the end of the year and told regional health services officials to ensure there is also a schedule for 2019. The team will be offering dental services, eye and ear testing among others. “We don’t want to talk it, we want to ensure that health is available and it is accessible by all people. After all we need to have Guyanese who enjoy the best of health and that is all we must work towards.” Meanwhile Deputy Toshao of Orealla, Randy Harmon expressed appreciation on behalf of the residents of Orealla. He described it as a “meaningful” contribution to the community. He also urged the residents to take responsibility to care for the ambulance. Stephens said the idea for the boat ambulance was birthed two years after consultation with residents who requested such for the community. He noted recognising the timeframe for a transfer to a coastal hospital; he agreed that the ambulance will

be ideal for the community. “$22.4M might sound a lot but to health services it is a minor investment to ensure there is positive changes in the delivery of health services for these two communities. It will also help them in cutting back on expenses because in an emergency the logistics and resources may not be readily be available so families have to seek alternative ways to get to the coast. With the ambulance, we will ensure there is always those services available.” Additionally he noted, in the future they are hoping to offer the same service to the community of Baracara. The visiting team and villagers were entertained by a packed cultural programme by students of the nursery and primary schools and also a resident who performed a song he had composed which had everyone tapping their feet to the beats.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

President Granger receives distinguished Jungle Warrior Machete from Brazilian Army P

resident David Granger on Wednesday received the distinguished Jungle Warrior Machete from the Brazilian Army's Jungle Warfare Training Center (CIGS) at State House from Colonel Nilton de Figueiredo Lampert, Commanding Officer of the Training Centre. In presenting the Machete to the Head of State, Colonel Emerson Deni da Silva, Brazilian Military Attaché to Guyana, said that it is comprised of a black, frosted metal blade of high resistance and double cut of a lower and larger man cut and an upper and small cut, in a half moon shape. He further noted that a head of a jaguar in metal is at the extremity of the handle towards the main cut, representing the animal symbol of jungle war. The handle is made of wood and it is inlayed in both sides of its bolster, with the badge of the Specialist of Jungle Operations. “The most famous Elite Troops of the world use knives and machetes to identify them. It is usual at a meeting between friendly Armies, the reciprocal exhibition of this emblematic artefact, which to a certain point reveals the historic significance of the integrated corporations. The Jungle Warriors formed by CIGS, since its inception in 1966, represent a specialised group in Jungle Operations. Until 2003, the

From left to right: Colonel Emerson Deni da Silva, Brazilian Military Attaché to Guyana; Colonel Nilton de Figueiredo Lampert, Commanding Officer of the Brazil Jungle Warfare Training Centre; President David Granger, Brazil's Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Lineu Pupo de Paula; Mr. Paulo Eduardo Borda de Carvalho Silos, Minister’s Counselor of the Brazilian Embassy and Colonel Claudio Carneiro Mardine from the Landing Operations Command.

materialisation of its symbol of one of its main work instruments was missing, a personalised machete. In the celebration of the 40th years of creation of the CIGS, in 2004, it has been developed as the project “Jungle Warrior Machete,” he explained. President Granger was trained at the CIGS in 1969, some 49 years ago. By virtue of the training received

from the institution, he has received the Machete, bearing the number 353, Colonel Deni da Silva said. In accepting the Machete, the Head of State said that the presentation is more than a mark of friendship between Guyana and Brazil. “I want to thank the Brazilian Army for its support to the Guyana Defence Force. Today is more than a mark of friendship between Guyana and Brazil. It is

more of a demonstration of the type of cooperation that should exist on the continent. This is the way it should be. So this is an important visit and a reaffirmation of the ties not just between Guyana and Brazil but also the two Militaries and the two Jungle Warfare Schools, the CIGS and the Jungle and Amphibious Training School in Guyana,” the Head of State said.

Accompanying Colonel Lampert and Colonel Deni da Silva were Colonel Claudio Carneiro Mardine from the Landing Operations Command, Brazilian Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Lineu Pupo de Paula and Mr. Paulo Eduardo Borda de Carvalho Silos, Minister’s Counselor of the Brazilian Embassy. (Ministry of the Presidency)

UG set to confer honorary doctorates on four Guyanese F

Laura George

OR the first time in its history, the University of Guyana is set to confer honorary doctorates on four Guyanese. Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, noted on his social media Facebook account on Tuesday night that the four persons approved by the academic board of the university are indigenous activist Laura

George, musical icon Eddy Grant, business magnate Yesu Persaud, and Guyana-born United Statesbased philanthropist, Jay Sobhraj. “Yesterday occurred another milestone in the journey along renaissance road, when the academic board approved my petition to confer Honorary Doctorates on four outstanding Guyanese—the TURN TO PAGE

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Eddy Grant

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

GECOM challenges

LAST week, the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), retired Justice James Patterson issued a statement on the current state of affairs as they relate to its daily functions and its present task of preparing the nation for the hosting of Local Government Elections, slated for November 12, 2018. It will be the second time in over twenty years that such an exercise is being held on its constitutionally due date. Given the specificity of Chairman Patterson’s style of speech, and his trademark precise manner for very clear, unambiguous and descriptive, his many statements gave a clear understanding of the issues he faces. Among the most troubling of statements made were those that referred to the Commission as, “experiencing at every turn designs and machinations to stymie its operations…mischief is afoot, internal as well as external”; and that which referred to the dangerous input of racism, “It is even more sad to see that the default position of our politicians seems to play the race card…

It seems to be our politicians have retreated into ethno political camps…” These are indeed very troubling observations that are being concluded about one of the nation’s most critical constitutional offices, in which seminal functions are included in the nation’s most important human right–the exercising of the will of the people. It must be reminded that GECOM’s functions are definably in the national interest, and must be exercised as such. It is, therefore, of a non-partisan nature, meaning that it must be seen to be above board, without any recourse to political affiliation of any type, and ethnic–partiality. There is also a protocol which guides its deliberations at its most senior level, and that full adherence is expected by those participating. It is within this constitutional frame and capacity that it is expected to dispense its obligations to the nation, which is its primary responsibility. There can be no denial that this constitutional function of this critical state institution is not known to all political parties, especial-

ly their leaders. Therefore, one expects that the latter will accord this national electoral body its due respect, and not for any of them to attempt in any manner to make it a target of partisan politics, as has been clearly the case, especially since the last national elections, held in 2015. But this has clearly not been the case. For what has been discerned is a well-orchestrated attack on the GECOM, that has begun to impute race as a factor in its organisational structure, with specific reference to its employment practices. It is obvious that this accusation, although clearly disproven, has been continued with the unambiguous design to sow the seeds of distrust within the minds of the country’s constituents, thus leading to a declaration of no-confidence in the ability of the national electoral body to manage voter exercise that is free and fair. How can this be, when there is no just cause, to subvert such an important constitutional exercise that is soon approaching, that of Local Government Elections, scheduled to be held on November 12?

President David Granger has already made it clear that the hosting of Local Government Elections (LGEs) on November 12, 2018, will not be postponed. His statement had come amid court actions by the opposition People’s Progressive Party challenging certain changes made by the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, to some Local Authority areas. “I promised the nation and I promise you that as long as I am President, LGE will occur whenever they fall due. I will not postpone LGE. I cannot postpone something you are entitled to; it is not a privilege, it is something that is embedded in the constitution--your right to elect leaders of your choice,” President Granger had told a community meeting in Corriverton recently. Under no circumstance must the work of GECOM be impeded, by those whose only objective is to interfere with the advancement of the rights of the people, which allow the latter to choose their own leaders.

Time for non-payment of taxes to end Dear Editor ONE must agree that based on the testimonies of those persons, both staff and citizens, who have so far testified before the Justice Kennard Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the administration of City Hall, there is the undoubted conclusion that there are very serious issues which do exist. What is also very clear is that these are matters that pre-date this current council and central government. Thanks to the former administration that, having failed to subdue the former council, allowed the city to deteriorate to an abysmal state never before seen nor experienced in the city’s history. However, since the most principal of the city managers are yet to testify, I am reserving further comment. They must have their day before the CoI and therefore defend

all of the allegations against their stewardships. On observation, a particular complaint that has been constant in most testimonies before the commission, has been about the non-remittance of NIS contributions; tax deductions; and workers’ pensions to the respective agencies; one must also add the perennial issue of late payment of salaries. These are very chronic issues that have existed for about the last 15 years or more, though there are the hypocrites and those with political agendas who would want to convey otherwise. Editor, it would also seem that there is a body of opinion which believes that the council could suffice on the meagre sums that are paid by those citizens who meet their civic obligations. I suspect that this opinion is based on stories about contracts being given out by the current town clerk.

Failure on the part of any employer to remit deducted sums from their employees to the respective recipients, will most naturally attract instant concern and protest. And we are all aware what the non–payment of especially NIS contributions can mean for insured workers, particularly those who may wish to claim the short-term benefits, such as sickness and maternity. Moreover, the long-term benefits of old age and invalidity pensions can be affected if deducted contributions from the concerned claimant are not present at the time of computation of the respective benefits. Thus, one can perhaps appreciate the council’s predicament of not being able to remit, because of very scarce revenues from citizens and having to decide to pay wages utilising the very deductions. Of course, payment of the latter would

be of the most immediate priority for the city’s staff. Thus far, I have not heard any of the city’s officials speak as to the degrading effects that the huge commercial and domestic debts owed to the city, continue to impact on the latter’s abilities to deliver critical services to citizens. I find it very baffling that none of the seniors that have already testified, have not spoken on this very critical issue of revenue that has everything to do with the issues alluded to above. I would also hope that whatever findings are to be made, and recommendations given that very specific mention is made as to the abysmal failure of citizens to honour their obligations. For, notwithstanding the municipality’s problems, nothing gives the right, or can be interpreted as reasons on the part of citizens not to pay rates and taxes.

Such huge sums owed to the city’s municipality, can only continue to witness a cemetery in its current shameful state, as Le Repentir is. It is time that this deliberate act be ended. It stands at the heart of most of the city’s problems. Editor, it would seem that this is what has been happening for many years, apart from the fact that I suspect a political hand in the midst. One can also refer to the parallel of the numerous businesses that had taken to evade paying their fair share of taxes, but are now being made to pay –- thanks to the no-nonsense and aggressive line taken by the commissioner-general and his staff against the delinquents. Regards Earl Hamilton

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Slow progress towards “net zero emissions” of CO2 by 2050 Dear Editor PARTIES to the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change, including Guyana, have committed to reaching “net zero emissions” of CO2 by 2050. That is the big global target. In spite of the evidence of rising carbon emissions and their impact on the planet, progress towards that target is nowhere near where it should be. For too many

across the world, it is somehow aspirational –- to be achieved sometime in the distant future. The latest report from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report starkly dispels any notion of achieving that target, based on current “business-as-usual” economies and modern lifestyles. What is more, it confirms that global warming is accelerating. We have

already reached 1.1 degrees and the consequences of a warming world are glaringly evident: more frequent extreme weather events; water and food shortages; rising sea levels; wild fires; accelerating extinction of plants and animals; and dramatically reduced biodiversity; all attributable to climate change. Not only that, they conclude what happens between now and 2030 matters, if there is to be any

chance of achieving that mid-century target. There are only a dozen years for global warming to be kept to a maximum of 1.5 degrees, beyond which even half a degree will significantly worsen the risks of drought, floods, extreme heat and poverty for hundreds of millions of people. Regards Rooplall Dudhnath

MoPI has responded to complaints by Leguan residents Dear Editor REFERENCE is made to an article that was published on Sunday, September 30, 2018, in The Guyana Times under the title, “Region 3 residents fume over mud-covered roadways... no discretion by farmers- road users”. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure wishes to respond to the complaints of the residents in Leguan pertaining to: 1) farmers polluting the roadways with mud from their farming equipment without considerations for pedestrians and commuters; and 2) the maintenance works which began in 2016. The ministry is aware of the current situation whereby farmers are frequently polluting the roadways. In response to the situation, the ministry deployed a maintenance crew comprising five persons who were designated to maintain the roads continually. According to the engineer, Mr. Seenarine Nandram, who is

assigned to District Three, the maintenance crew routinely fixed potholes and other failed sections along the existing road networks. He noted that during the spring tides alerts, the crew would work along with a team from the sea defence to facilitate emergency works on vulnerable sites. At present, the combined work teams are cleaning the public road from Maryville to Blenheim at least twice per week to prevent dust and mud pollution in the communities with excessive traffic. So far, they have completed cleaning the roads leading to Maryville Primary School, the police station, government buildings and the secondary school at Enterprise Village. It is also imperative to note that the maintenance crew is engaged in the spraying, cleaning and clearing of roadside drains in order to provide rainfall run-off which will prevent flooding in the Leguan area. Furthermore, the article misleadingly highlighted that it was the Neighbourhood

Democratic Council workers who were clearing mud and stones from the roadway. The ministry wishes to notify the public that the two workers depicted in the picture are Mr. Abdool Shawazaman and Mr. Trevon Neblett, attached to the Special Projects Unit within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. These men were not assisted by the Neighbourhood Democratic Council nor the Regional Democratic Council. In addition to the commendable works being done by the ministry’s maintenance crew, Mr. Lawrence Mentis, senior engineer and manager of the Special Projects Unit within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, advised that residents of Leguan should expect rehabilitation works to begin in November of this year. Mr. Mentis indicated that construction materials are currently being sourced and will be transported to the island for the commencement of work shortly. Residents are encouraged

to be patient as the ministry strives for the development of improved infrastructure throughout Guyana. The ministry is hereby pleading to farmers in the area not to drive combines or other tracked-vehicles directly on the road. Further, we wish to advise all farmers to consider the damage caused to the roadways which benefit all persons, including pedestrians and commuters within the island. More importantly, the ministry is asking the kind assistance of residents to ensure that their neighbours use the roadways for the benefit of all. To report complaints and damage, kindly visit Mr. Seenarine Nandram at Leguan’s Sea Defence Head Office. Best Regards, Ms. Krest Cummings Public Relations Officer Ministry of Public Infrastructure

We are very happy to welcome Sister Volda Dear Editor, I READ with great interest, the letter published, “Geriatrics in the PNCR” written by Alex Duncan. As an old worker of the party, I must share the sentiments and grave concerns expressed in his letter. There is one error in his letter: it is that which stated that Volda Lawrence was the first female chairman

of the party. When I was a youngster in the 60s, the PNC’s leader was Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham; the treasurer was Ms. Hyacinth Goddette; the general-secretary was Hamilton Green; and the chairperson was Mrs. Winifred Gaskin. She was therefore, the first female chairman of the party. May I say we are very happy to welcome Sister Volda. In her there is hope. Next,

I have a big worry which my party should explain. On the new executive is a gentleman (Van-West Charles) who not too long ago had many unkind things to say about the PNC and publicly stated that he had left the PNC and joined the AFC. Within a few short months, how can a person who is still on the AFC list of candidates and can therefore become an AFC Member of

Parliament, be an executive member of the PNCR? He has not with similar public noise denounced the AFC. The question is why are we shooting ourselves in the foot and who are the persons within the PNC top brass responsible for this stupidity and gross crassness? Regards Eric Moseley

Gov’t should not shirk its responsiblity Dear Editor, IT did not escape the attention of the GAWU that Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, in the October 06 Kaieteur News, said “…come the 18th of October when Parliament reconvenes, a Supplementary Paper with the severance balance payment which I believe is $2.41B will be on that paper.” For the GAWU and more so the thousands of jobless workers and their families, some literally surviving day-by-day, the news is most positive in the context of the gloom that has now encumbered their lives. But most distastefully, the minister goes on saying to the workers “[I] hope you can rest peacefully [now] that your money is on its way and not be goaded into these unnecessary picketing that gives the impression as if the government doesn’t want to pay the money.” Such a comment coming from a leading member of the coalition is simply unbelievable, especially when they are contrasted with his rambunctious statements in his letter in the October 09, Stabroek News. Whether the minister, and by extension the government, may want to admit it or not, the fact that the administration is now moving to secure the funds to offset the workers’ lawful entitlements, incidentally, days prior to the Local Government Elections, is because of the sustained call and actions by the workers for them to receive what they duly deserve. The workers involvement in picketing exercises; the union’s pursuance of the matter through the judiciary, which we must add benefitted from a fair share of gimmickry; apart from other actions and initiatives are what, we contend, are forcing the government to now make moves to settle its indebtedness to the beleaguered workers and their families. Had the workers remained meek and mute as the administration may have wished, the urge to settle the outstanding payments would have simply been absent in the coalition’s quarters. But the government didn’t, seemingly, bargain for the sustained and vociferous calls by the workers and their families. The entire episode, however, should demonstrate to our people that they can only succeed in getting this APNU+AFC administration to listen to their cries when they raise their voices in a united and committed manner. We have seen this approach succeeding in the struggles by the sugar workers; the movement against the parking meters; and more recently in the protests by our nation’s teachers. Nevertheless, while the GAWU is pleased by this turn of events, we hasten to warn the administration that it simply cannot turn its back on this hardpressed segment of Guyanese. They still require, and more so deserve, the state’s assistance in getting back to their feet. They, notwithstanding their payments, reside in communities where jobs are simply absent; where, for many, their children are unable to enjoy full schooling; where they cannot pay their bills, among other things. The government who placed these people in the predicament in which they find themselves has a responsibility to them and should not seek to shirk that responsibility, as it apparently is seeking to do at this time. Regards Seepaul Narine General-Secretary GAWU

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

MASS MURDER IN MID-AIR

ESTERDAY, October 6, marked the 42nd anniversary of the Cubana Air disaster. Many would not remember that mid-air mass murder, and the revulsion then against the perpetrators, who were identified as “anti-Castro Cuban exiles”. Though it was widely believed at the time that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) was involved, there was no direct evidence of any links. However, documents released in 2005, and available on the Internet, stated that the CIA had advance information on a terrorist plan to bomb a Cubana airliner. Four men were arrested for the bombing. After a trial in Venezuela, two were sentenced to 20 years in prison. The alleged mastermind, Orlando Bosch, was acquitted and later died in Miami. The fourth, Luis Posada Carriles, fled to the United States, where he wrote a book, Caminos del Guerrero (Ways of the Warrior) in which he denied any involvement, but gave details of the bombing. FATAL LAST WORDS “We have an explosion on board… We have fire aboard.” Those were among the fatal last words from Captain Wilfredo Perez as he radioed to the control tower at the then Seawell Airport in Barbados. Those last words were conclusive testimony that Cubana Air Flight CU455 did not go down as a result of an accident. They were an indictment of the terrorists who had planted bombs on board the Cubana passenger aircraft on that fateful and tragic day of October 6, 1976. The aircraft had left Guyana, and was en route to Cuba with stops in Trinidad, Barbados and Jamaica. But minutes after take-off from Barbados, it went down in the Caribbean Sea. All 73 persons on board were killed. There were 57 Cubans, five Koreans and 11 Guyanese on board. The Guyanese were :Eric Norton, 18 years old; Ann Nelson, 18; Seshnarine Kumar, 18; Jacqueline Williams, 19; and Rawle Thomas, 18, all students on their way to study in Cuba, with relatives Violet Thomas and Rita Thomas. There were also nine-year-old Sabrina Harripaul, Margaret Bradshaw, and Gordon Sobha, an economist. Our entire nation would remember the shock and horror of that day. We would continue to collectively share in the grief and loss over the calculated mass murder, the massacre of our Guyanese compatriots, and citizens of the Republic of Cuba and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. FROM PAGE

As we collectively mourned our dead, I vividly recalled Fidel Castro, then President of Cuba, saying, “When our grief is multiplied, injustice trembles.” Some of us, 42 years ago, received the news with emotional rage and anger. Like Pablo Neruda after the 1973 bloody coup in Chile, we demanded punishment for the murderers, one of whom remains in a safe haven, up to this day, somewhere in the United States of America. RADICAL EMOTIONS Back then in October 1976, I let my own radical emotions fly in a poem dedicated to the memory of the Caribbean Martyrs, which I previously read at solemn events such as this, and am pleased to again share with you: I wish I were a painter I’d paint an ocean of blood Pure, innocent, Caribbean blood. In the centre I’d paint Seventy-three beacons, Aglow with eternal flames For the whole, wide world to see How outrageous it is to shed blood in vain I wish I were a sculptor I’d carve from rockstones The beastly heart of a fascist On a platter of granite that I’d name CIA. I’d post it to Washington, Addressed to the White House, As a gift for the President I wish I were a poet I’d write a poem With the barrel of my gun, Dipped in tears and anger of my people. I’d send it to every assassin And would-be assassin As a warrant And final warning. And if I were a revolutionary,

I’d soak my banner in the blood of our luminous dead in the Caribbean Sea. I’d pursue the murderers and those who pay them to murder, No matter where they might be; And I’d, I’d, I’d… INDEPENDENT PATH We felt that way at the time, and would still feel this way, until justice is done, since the Cubana disaster was not an isolated act. It was a studied policy that punished small states for pursuing an independent path of development. We felt that way because, 10 years after being freed from the shackles of three centuries of colonial bondage, we feared that new chains were being forged for small states. We felt that our independence was under attack. That was why then President, Forbes Burnham, pointed to the intellectual authors of that dastardly act of terrorism as those who do not accept the right of a people “to fashion their own destinies, and to dictate their own goals”. The terrorist attack not only targeted Cuba, but Barbados, Trinidad, Jamaica and Guyana, which had defied the US-imposed isolation policy by establishing diplomatic relations with the revolutionary island-state in 1972. Guyana has paid a heavy price in the loss of precious lives for dictating its own policies and goals, together with other small Caribbean states, towards a sister Caribbean nation. SHARED GRIEF The Cubana terrorist bombing brought us shared grief. It also strengthened our resolve not to sever our close bonds with our Cuban brothers and sisters. Today, we remember our glorious martyrs with fresh anguish in our

hearts. We must always remember them, and why they became victims, so as not to surrender to bullyism over our sovereignty, and unimpeded access to our natural resources. Today, terrorism is no longer a deadly export cargo;it has become home-grown. No one, no state, could be insulated as we have seen 25 years after Cubana, in the horrendous 9/11 tragedy. And already, elsewhere, too many innocent people, including babies, children and students, are being slaughtered almost daily in mindless acts of terrorism. So, as we remember the Cubana Martyrs today, we repeat our pledge not to encourage or condone terrorism, or the use of force, to settle differences or controversies, in the Caribbean and elsewhere. We re-affirm our commitment to the rule of law and international norms for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. ZONE OF PEACE This was clearly stated last year, at this very sacred place, by our President, David Granger, when he said: “Guyana abhors the crime of international terrorism, whenever and wherever it occurs. Guyana reassures the world of its commitment to making the Caribbean a zone of peace.” The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana pays homage to our martyrs and, in their name, continues to carry the banner of peace and friendship amongst all nations, and to open new avenues to strengthen solidarity and cooperation among small Caribbean states such as Cuba. Eternal glory to our martyrs! [Taken from my address at the Cubana Air Disaster Commemorative Ceremony]

UG set to confer honorary ...

first time UG will be bestowing this honour,” Professor Griffith said. Grant, whose music is knowned globally, pioneered the ringbang genre over the course of his career which started in 1965 with the group-- The Equals. Persaud has been lauded at home and abroad for his contribution to the growth of the private sector. In June 2009, Persaud was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of the West Indies in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of business in Guyana and for his

micro-credit initiatives, mainly through the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED). In December 2013, he retired from his position as Chairman of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) after serving the company for 48 years. Last October, the University of Warwick of England honoured Persaud for his stellar contribution to the development of global education and unveiled a brand new state-of-the-art lecture theatre bearing his name. Sobhraj has contributed to many

causes, including humanitarian acts in Guyana over the years. Earlier this year, through the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation, he pumped a significant grant of GY$$80 million to establish the state-of-the-art behavioural study, research and multi-purpose centre in place of the old canteen building. George, the governance and rights coordinator at the Amerindian Peoples’ Association, has been at the forefront of many undertakings, locally and overseas, as she furthers the cause of indigenous peoples.

Jay Sobhraj

Yesu Persaud

Professor Griffith stated that the University of Guyana will provide additional information on the milestone move.

14Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 20189

Elections have YOUR T consequences The day the unseasoned FOR critic sat in the chair

HE beautiful anecdote, ‘The held at the pommel by a single hair of a Sword of Damocles’ shall forever horse’s tail. This was demanded by Diring true as long as there is life onysius to demonstrate to the naïve and and human organisation on earth. It excited servant that fortune is fraught every speaks to the imminent peril and ubiq- single day by clear and present danger from uitous(that) worryisthat poweroutcome; and enemies and this more.period After of several hours on ‘DUH nahcomes (not) with destructive positive in other responsibility. a submisseat of power, Damoclesgovernment declined the me business’ is aDamocles famous was and vindictive cases, it could bethe negative. sive servant Court Numerous of Dionysius offer and no would longer appreciate wanted to experience phrase used in in ourthe everythe danissues associ2nd of Syracuse, aWhen tyrant inated 4th with Century this privilege. day conversations. the arrogance of gers of going to the Cheddi Italy.this Damocles pandered to the Kingin Guyana Juxtapose the above mentioned story to weBC make remark, it government International Airport in Jagan and praised him for his grandeur and disappeared, the scenario of the modern inexperienced means we have zero in- the past have to fulfil an overseas obligamagnificence and wished tobecause be like of him. critic, who honourable intenterest in an issue. tion ashave an anti-government the decision of might He was persistent and requested a tions for his/her country, is completely It is sad when this the masses at the last elec- activist and but having to face chance to be in the seat of power. On a oblivious to the intricacies and demands phrase is applied while tions to demonstrate their the dreaded possibility trouble-filled day, the King became fed up of governing. So they tear down every describing our attitude to power at the ballot box. of having drugs planted with the incessant petition by this servant policy decision, shout that the government public advocacy. The posFurther, some ominous in your luggage. These andofoffered a chance to sit on the is incompetent and has no idea what they ture ‘Duh him is nah me things with life-and-death simple fears are no more throne for one day; Damocles excitedly about. There is banging on the table, business’ is what led to implications are are no longer due to the wise choice jumped at his long-sought opportunity; and passionate rejection of all strategies what is arguably the worst around due to the results of made by Guyanese. These however, a deadly condition was attached proposed by the state to resolve issues that time for governance in the last polls. The simple consequences cannot be to this offer. The King instructed that a might be decades old in their existence. Guyana’s modern history, pleasure of government underestimated, especialhuge sword should hang above the throne, Connoisseurs, Jacks and Jills of all trades, experienced between 1999- critics and reporters driv- ly in light of the fact that 2015. Governance reached ing with their windows most of the persons who its nadir during this period down or citizens subjecting were custodians of the bad when the holders of power their leaders to complete state between 1999-2015, declared with unrivalled ridicule on social media, have gone nowhere, they pomposity, ‘we have the no longer come with fatal are the ones waiting in the ethnic numbers’. On May repercussions, because of electoral wings to once 11th, 2015, Guyanese our last monumental exer- again reign down terror on demonstrated that elections cise of our collective fran- the population. GUYANESE Sheran Harphave serious implications. Added to this, an elecer, wife of former national chise. It is only those who Inand thisWest case,Indies therecricketer was a were in the trenches during tion, besides its conspicuRoger Harper, has been elected as the new Worldwide President of the global Anglican mission agency Mothers’ Union, making her the first person from outside the British Isles to hold the position. She will represent and lead the 142 years old movement’s four million members in 84 countries from January 2019, when she takes over from Lynne Tembey, who will step down in December. “I am delighted to accept the role of Worldwide President for the new triennium,” Harper said in a report in the Anglican Cummunion News Service. “I feel very excited Mrs Sheran Harper and privileged and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our members who voted to make levels from parish, diocese matters reserved to the Monand province and is currently arch, approved the new conthis dream a reality. stitution when it met in April Born in the United King- a Worldwide Trustee. Mothers’ Union is an in- this year, chaired by Queen dom, Harper grew up in Guyana where she studied ternational Christian, British Elizabeth. Until recently, Harper at the University of the West registered charity that seeks Indies School of Physical to support families world- was the worldwide parenting Therapy. She undertook her wide. Its members are not all trainer where she rolled out Clinical Practice at Guy’s mothers or even all women, Mothers’ Union parenting Hospital in London and then as there are many parents, programmes in 23 counworked with the Ministry of men, widows, singles and tries across the globe. Her Health in Guyana where she grandparents involved in its election was announced by opened and managed new work. Its main aim is to sup- Mothers’ Union Chief Exphysiotherapy departments port monogamous marriage ecutive, Bev Jullien during in hospitals throughout the and family life, especially a Facebook Live session. “We are extremely excited country and lectured on the through times of adversity I t w a s e s t a b l i s h e d with the results”, Jullien said. rehabilitation therapists’ prothrough a Royal Charter – “Not only will Sheran bring gramme. She stopped working in an ancient legal structure her global expertise, but we this area 17 years ago to fo- overseen by the Privy Coun- have a Board that is rich in cus on her calling of serving cil. The Privy Council, the diversity with eight different Mothers’ Union. She has highest level of the British nationalities and also, for the served as a volunteer at all Government responsible for first time, includes a man.”

self-made experts, pundits, caricaturists, comBy Ronald Austin Jr. mentators, arbiters, annotators and expositors who are sophomoric, will baulk at every policy formulatous mechanisms, is a fored process to address a situation, mal by which you completely devoid of a make a decision. When cluecutabout thatthe at razzle which you through they bark. me to and dazzle of Allow campaigning distinguish from the time me ain’t see people the argument politilems land onistheir desks forthat immediate and all the them shining fanexperienced constructive who know shooting up inresolution? parties’. Would cians are outbe of humbled touch withby they fares, it is a wise choice critics what they are talking thefact fact that issues governance responsibilities Thisabout is dueand to the that that impact the lives toexactly make which can affect whose views are sometimes very valuable. fraught with huge people. self-sacrifice and a decision of young On the from what your children Guyanese made are look liketoifelect thesean ap-incorruptible a complete abandonment of is some cherother hand, there the valwill What carry would in theirit lunch prentices have their day inPresident the chairwho of stands ished private When the for id indulgences? contestation that if polkits to whether your counresponsibility? How will they react when headaches managing human affairs cannot ofiticians refuse to address try gets a bad reputation law and order and they find out that Georgetown is not them every will it they stay who in the overtures yourday, issues, is you in the international arena. be enticed by thevisit Guyana and there are 10 of regions with chair? When the enemies -within and the drug empire. Again, must delve into advocacy This practice of democradiverse socio-cultural, economic and on the outside -line up in droves and becy has been in place since your safety when you go and address those issues. geographic realities? How will they fare gin to fire arrows at them, will they stay the 17th century. It is the out to have a good time It is a crime against your when the documents of intractable prob- in the seat or beg to exit like Damocles? results of the May 11th can be traced right back to fellow citizens to allow 2015 elections that have electoral decision-making. the rise of the destructive Be that as it may, glob- state by not having an I.D erased the shame of Guyana having a reputation of al voter apathy is at its Card or refusing to get up being a drug-filled banana highest percentage. The on national elections day to republic with little law and youth remain the most vote. Not getting involved order. It is due to our last passive global voter block; is too detrimental. It is a good time to vote-casting that we have this is a universal trend. In seen an unprecedented July 2010, 75% of eligible remind ourselves of the SOME 414on families from voters between ages 18-30 wise words of William crackdown the drug the East Bank Essequi- chose not to participate in Lyon Mckenzie King, empire in Guyana and the of bo (EBE) communities concomitant positive Tuschen and Zeelugt efhave the US midterm elections. ‘Where [there] is little or fects that come along with benefitted recently from The question is: who is to no public opinion, there the salescondignly and installations dealing with be blamed for low voter is likely to be bad govof scourge. faster internet services turnout by youths global- ernment, which sooner or this The average provided through GTT’s ly? Politicians or young later becomes autocratic Guyanese party-goer can “Blaze” services. now According remark: ‘Istoa along press people? On one hand, there government.’ release from GTT, over the weekend, there were 422 sales and over 140 installations. The release also noted that residents of both communities lauded the compaGTT team prepares for a day of Blaze ny for not only offering the sales and installations service but doing same day As such, Persaud said, “I all of Guyana has internet installations. Abdool Manan, a resi- feel quite excited and look and telephone services. The dent of the Tuschen housing forward to Blaze, once it fibre optic powered service scheme for some 25 years, works well my business will Blaze, offers both these sershared with GTT that he be able to grow.” vices in one package. GTT’s Chief Executive looks forward to the blaze The Blaze service offers service mainly because the Officer (CEO), Justin Nedd, three options- Blaze Ignite, service he currently has is shared that he is excited for Blaze Flaming and Blaze Inslow and he usually has the continued expansion ferno. “Blaze Ignite” – cusissues connecting to the of these services. He said, tomers will be able to access “We at GTT continue to Internet speed at five megainternet. George McLeon, one look for different avenues bytes per second, “Blaze of the first residents in the to improve our services, one Flaming” users will access area of Zeelugt, said on the that is for the people and one Internet with the speed of 20 other hand that the service that keeps them satisfied and megabytes per second and will save him a lot of mon- above all, connected to famiey. He highlighted: “I buy ly and loved ones – Tuschen “Blaze Inferno” users, 50 a lot of credit to use in our [and Zeelugt] can now expe- megabytes per second. Each package that is purchased cellphones so this blaze will rience this.” The Guyana Telephone comes with Internet serhelp us a lot.” B u s i n e s s m a n D a v e and Telegraph Company vice, landline service and a Persaud also shared that (GTT), originally introduced backup battery which gives the service will contrib- the ‘Blaze’ high speed Inter- power for 4-6 hours. The GTT team conute greatly to his online net, which offers a download business. According to the speed of up to 50 megabits tinues the sale and instalrelease, Persaud currently per second (mbps), in July lation of Blaze services uses internet from anoth- 2017 with an investment during the weekend of er provider; however the worth of around US$25M October 13, 2018 and enservice only provides two (G $5B) for deployment courages all residents in megabits at an exorbitant in Guyana. GTT has been Tuschen to sign up to have cost. working diligently to ensure the Blaze experience today.

ATTENTION !

Guyanese makes history as the MU’s EBE communities benefit first non-British Worldwide President from Internet upgrade

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Work begins on US$200M deep-water harbour

–– thousands of jobs being created for Berbicians By Nafeeza Yahya EXECUTIVE Director for CGX Energy Inc., Dr. Suresh Narine said the company is moving ahead with its US$180-200 million investment in Guyana’s first deep water harbour and onshore base at Crab Island, Berbice. With the closure of two sugar estates in Berbice recently, and an abundance of skilled and semi-skilled labour available, Dr. Narine said that the investment represents hope for Berbicians. “We are moving forward with the facility, will be investing with our partners between US$180-200 million in the deep-water harbour and shore base facility. Whilst that facility in its own right will not solve Berbice’s unemployment issues, it will be an important nucleus for growth. Other services with see trickledown effect… it will also have the impact of bringing the oil industry into Berbice in a way that is very lasting and very impactful. When you think even of the construction efforts that such a project will engender, we are talking about hundreds if not multiple thousands of jobs followed by second tier jobs, jobs for our educated people,” the CGX executive director, who was at the time addressing the Berbice Expo, said to a resounding applause. Speaking with Guyana Chronicle afterwards the event, Dr Narine disclosed that the recommendations of 10 different independent studies all pointed to Crab Island as being perfect for a

port and work has commenced work on phase one of the three phase project to build the deep water harbour and onshore port facility. “We already have the logistics yard already fixed up and ready to go; it operational. At the wharf facility which was designed by Ballast Nedam, a very reputable Dutch Firm, we have already done all the vertical drains and we have a tender out that was closed a week ago for about $100 million to start revetting the facility. It’s small in the grand scheme of works but it has already started putting real dollars into Berbice and we are very excited,” he said. The first phase of the project will see the setting up of a 90-metre wharf and 10,000 metre open logistics yard with a service building. It will also include storage facilities and the dredging of a channel and turning basin to accommodate ships. The second and third phases will see the expansion of the facility and the construction of the deep sea harbour and commercial container facility. EMPLOYMENT According to Dr. Narine, CGX Energy Inc. has a policy to train Guyanese if a position can be filled by them without affecting the efficiency of the company. Noting that all of the company’s board members are Guyanese, along with a manager, Dr. Narine said that recently 20 Texans were turned down

to conduct a geo-chemical survey and instead 30 Guyanese were trained to do the job. He said the training of Guyanese where possible is a worthwhile investment. “We have to have an entry, but Guyana is blessed with all these innovative people, and I am willing to bet that once they have entry into the business they will be making unique contributions to that business as well. We are not only going to be doing this with geo-chemical surveying, that is a start, but when we do our seismic surveys, when we start drilling our wells…” The labour pool required for the deep water harbour and the onshore base project will be drawn mainly from Berbice. And, CGX is planning to work closely with the University of Guyana’s Berbice campus, GuySuCo Training Centre and other technical institutes within Berbice to facilitate training. The project, he said, will have massive spin-off effect, including the emergence of several new businesses. “We have a wide spectrum of people who are engaged directly and those that would end up indirectly, so when you think of a deep-water facility you have got a requirement from logistical people, sub-contractors, supplying fuel ,drilling fluids, storage, decanting facilities, trucking. We have an increase demand for customs and excise, housing, entertainment and transportation, so a major facility like that engenders not

CGX Energy Inc. Executive Director, Dr. Suresh Narine

only jobs but relocation of labour to the site. It will have far reaching impacts on businesses and accommodations in the area. Many of the developments are difficult to match because the natural entrepreneur spirit takes over and you can’t predict everything, but those that we can predict suggest a large volume of business,” he said.

Tourists flock Guyana –– tourism sector records highest growth in Caribbean for first half of 2018

UYANA has recorded the highest growth in the tourism sector in the Caribbean region during the first half of 2018. This development came to the fore during the wrapup session of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) held in The Bahamas on October 1-5. CTO Secretary-General Hugh Riley in a live broadcast on Friday said that of the 22 reporting destinations around the Caribbean region, 13 registered increases in

growth during the first half of 2018, ranging from 1.7 per cent to 18.35 per cent. Seven countries, he said, recorded decreases, largely tied to the hurricane season. Riley then said that the top performing destination during the first half of 2018 was Guyana, noting that the South American, English-speaking state recorded 18.3 per cent growth, followed by Belize with 17.1 per cent and The Cayman islands with 15.9 per cent. Arrivals from Europe also increased this year, although marginally, with three million visitors coming to the

Caribbean within the first half of 2018. Riley said Guyana, which recorded a 9.3 per cent growth, came in second in arrivals behind Belize which saw a 24.3 per cent growth in European tourist arrivals. He said the results substantiate the regional messaging of the openness of the destinations for business and the confidence in destinations to deliver quality experiences. The performance of key source markets varies considerably, with some destinations recording “strong growth” while others regis-

tered declines. Riley said tourism over the past year has been a tale of two situations. “On one hand, we had robust growth in countries that were affected by last year’s hurricanes and, on the other, we have seen dramatic decreases in arrivals in those hit by the hurricanes although performances of those countries are steadily improving,” he said. Former US President Bill Clinton, in a recorded message to the conference, noted the critical role travel and tourism play in the region. He said the sector accounts

for more than 15 per cent of GDP in the region and in many countries the number is much higher. He said the CTO is working with the Bill Clinton Foundation and other partners to showcase the region’s extraordinary culture and diversity, as well as arts and food. The CTO’s leadership was on full display in The Bahamas. Riley said the body brought together experts to craft insights to determine how a lasting, sustainable tourism sector “can be built that will benefit every individual, every community,

every country in this region”. Guyana’s tourism sector has been evolving over the years, with visitors to the region exploring the country’s eco-tourism initiatives. At a recent media breakfast organised by the Guyana Tourism Authority, there were calls for more coordination and higher emphasis to be placed on the sector, as many noted the impact the sector has made on the economy over the years.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Understanding Energy...

Local companies seizing the opportunity

HILE government revenue will significantly increase, due to ExxonMobil’s oil discoveries in the Stabroek block, a key secondary impact will be the jobs and opportunities that come from introducing and growing a new industry in our country. Oil production itself is a capital-intensive, rather than a labour-intensive industry. This means substantial investment is critical to get projects off the ground, but relatively few people are employed in the actual production. However, even though the oil companies won’t directly employ vast numbers of individuals, more and more Guyanese companies are creating their own lasting opportunities as contractors, engineering consultants and more, in this emerging sector of the economy. Young companies like Guysons Oil and Gas Logistics & Services, a member of the Guysons Group that

was founded just this year, are taking advantage of opportunities that the industry represents for entrepreneurs and the business-minded service industry. Critically, Guysons is developing advanced technical capacity here in Guyana by using local talent. Guysons announced last week that, after training at Exxon’s Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD), it has received the stringent and coveted ISO9001:2015 Certification, an international recognition for quality management awarded by the International Organisation for Standardisation in sectors, including the petroleum industry. Guysons Oil and Gas Services and its sister company, Guysons Engineering, are the first firms in Guyana to achieve this certification after training at CLBD, and are now eligible to work on a wide variety of demanding and specific tasks within the energy industry.

This means that locally-owned and staffed firms have an opportunity to gain solid footing, and compete with international oil field service firms for contracts, now that an international body has certified that they meet the most stringent industry standards for safety and quality. The company expects to sign a joint-venture deal with “a major international oilfield company to support Tier 1 operators” soon, according to recent news reports. Meanwhile, Hughes, Fields and Stoby has become the first Guyanese law firm to set up an office in Houston, Texas, to take advantage of international companies’ new interest in Guyana. As reported by Stabroek News, the Guyanese-owned and operated law firm wants to be a resource for American companies looking to do business in Guyana as a result of our oil discoveries. This is a case of a local firm not

only growing locally, but actually expanding internationally, a major achievement for the Guyana business community. Developing associated and adjacent industries is a critical step in ensuring that the investment in the oil-and-gas industry translates to lasting economic stability. These developments illustrate a positive trend, and it’s worth noting that these business opportunities are appearing without a government policy on local content. Market forces and the necessities of the industry are developing local content on their own. Companies are taking the initiative and growing their own capacity to meet the needs of Guyana’s new energy industry. Guysons, for instance, invested nearly $10M and several months to get the ISO9001 certification, and now four other local companies have signed up for certification, according to the CLBD. That kind of organic

local growth is a positive sign that international investments in Guyana are creating a virtuous cycle of job growth and wealth creation. The government’s efforts to expand their own capacity are also creating jobs and new opportunities, as demonstrated by the 139 customs house brokers in training at the Guyana Revenue Authority. Though customs workers are hardly new to Guyana, the influx of materials, companies, and tools to facilitate oil production brings more need for government inspectors to manage the process. Overall, the growth seen in the past few weeks demonstrates the reach and impact of oil development throughout the Guyanese economy. Even before production has begun or government revenues have been collected, direct and indirect impacts are already obvious in the form of new jobs and new opportunities for Guyanese.

Guyana explores partnerships with IsDB branches

–– high-level mission from bank expected this month By Svetlana Marshall TWO years after joining the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), a multilateral development financing institution, the Government of Guyana is moving to partner with other branches of the bank to foster greater development here. In an interview on Friday, Finance Minister Winston Jordan told reporters that the Guyana Government has initiated intense discussions with other arms of the IsDB. With a membership of 57 countries since its establishment in 1975, the IsDB has evolved into a group of five entities – the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB); the Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI); the Islamic Corporation for Development of the Private Sector (ICD); the Islamic Corporation for Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC); and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Discussions with Guyana thus far has included collaboration with the ICD but Minister Jordan noted that it is a process. “Now we are only members of the bank itself. Each one of the other arms requires membership similar to the membership you would try to get into the World Bank. The World Bank has an arm called IFC and you have to join that and subscribe to it; similarly, the Islamic Development Bank has a same arrangement, we have to subscribe,” the finance minister explained. During his recent visit to the Middle East with Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson and a technical team, it was indicated that Guyana is not in a position to subscribe to the shares of the other institutions; however, it is hoped that in the future, the country would be in a better position to join the other sections of the financial institution. The IsDB, however, ac-

cording to Minister Jordan has expressed a willingness to assist Guyana in joining other institutions. A programming mission is expected from the Islamic Bank at the end of October. “They are going to come to look at other areas that they can invest in Guyana. Previously, we spoke heavily about agriculture and agricultural diversification; we talked about public utilities, particularly electricity and renewable energy; we talked about roads and we also looked at rural development in the context of putting infrastructure, especially in the five new towns that we would have created. So they are going to come with a programming mission at the end of this month,” the finance minister explained. In December, a fact-finding mission is also expected to be conducted. AGREEMENT SIGNED During that visit to the Middle East last September,

Minister Jordan signed a loan agreement with the IsDB for US$20M for major upgrades to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), as part of its Development and Expansion Programme for 2014 to 2021, as well as a US$900,000.00 grant agreement for the Reverse Linkage Project, which aims to enhance the stability and sustainability of Guyana’s rice sector. The project seeks to diversify the rice sector with the production of new varieties of rice with an increase in rice exports. The delegation also visited Kuwait with the intention of formally requesting a write-off of a decades-old loan. Minister Jordan explained that Guyana had borrowed approximately US$10 million from Kuwait in the 1970s; however, the amount has grown to more US$70 million because of interest. The trip was part of a broader recognition that aims to develop and diversify Guyana’s economy, partnerships

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

with overseas investors and lending agencies. During the visit to Kuwait, former Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh, Dr. Nasser Mohammed Al Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, who had visited Guyana on July 19, 2010, hosted a grand luncheon/banquet for 40 persons which included Ministers Jordan and Patterson; Donna Yearwood,

Head, Debt Management, Ministry of Finance; Guyana’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Professor Dr. Shamir Ally; wife Dr. Maryann Beebe Ally; and 35 high-ranking Kuwait officials, including His Excellency Khaled Suliman AL-Jarallah, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was on the team to Guyana on July 19, 2010. During the luncheon, Minister Jordan as head of the delegation, raised Guyana’s US$10 million debt incurred in 1973 to the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA). A special request was also made for a waiver of the accumulated US$64 million interest and a repayment schedule for the US$10 million loan. Both His Highness and the deputy foreign minister promised to pursue the relief for Guyana. Minister Jordan also mentioned the opportunities for Kuwait investments and for public/private partnerships in agriculture, business and education.

nat Women top nati

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Guyana Chronicle New York EditionSUNDAY week ending October 12,7,2018 CHRONICLE October 2018

By Alva Solomon

PRESIDENT David Granger said the nation has an obligation to pay homage to its distinguished sons and daughters who have provided outstanding service to their communities. He shared these sentiments during his address to the 97 recipients, their relatives, friends and well-wishers during the 2018 Investiture ceremony at the National Cultural Centre. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and several other ministers of government also attended the event. “Our nation honours them out of respect for the values which they exemplified and contributions which they have made

and continue to make,” the President said. He said the national order system seeks to recognise and rewards service men and women from all corners of the republic. The President told the audience that the nation was built by the collective contributions of ordinary citizens from the academics, social organisations, political parties, religious groups and trade unions, among others. The country, he said, relies on the patriotic work of its men and women who have rendered selfless service. The Head of State reminded the audience that the national order system is ordained by the Constitution of Guyana. The President said the national order system, under which national awards are conferred, is not a “ceremonial or cosmetic

Baidwantie Balgobin being conferred with the Medal of Service by President Granger (Delano Williams photo)

Professor Alvin Oliver Thompson being conferred with the Cacique Crown of Honour by President David Granger (Delano Williams photo)

Executive Chairman of DDL, Komal Samaroo being conferred with the Cacique Crown of Honour by President David Granger (Delano Williams photograph)

Vice –President of Conservation International, Dr David Singh being conferred with the Golden Arrow of Achievement by President Granger (Delano Williams photo)

Child rights rights activist activist Aleema Aleema Nasir Nasir receives receives the the Golden Golden A A Child President David David Granger Granger (Delano (Delano Williams Williams photograph) photograph) President

Broadcaster, Dr. Rovin Deodat being conferred with the Golden Arrow of Achievement by President David Granger (Delano Williams photo)

President David Granger confers the Medal of Service on Morgan Allicock for his contributions to the nation (Delano Williams photograph)

A section section of of th th A

tional ional awardees Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 7, 2018

ritual as some seem to think”. He said it is an essential cultural convention used to express appreciation to those who served selflessly. The President said Saturday’s investiture ceremony was a public manifestation of appreciation to those who have rendered exemplary service to the nation. Forty-nine women from various fields were among those who were conferred with national awards by President David Granger. On Saturday, Executive Chairman of the Demerara Distillers Limited, Komal Samaroo, Professor Alvin Oliver Thompson and retired Justice Oslen Small were conferred with the Cacique Crown of Honour.

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A total of 41 persons were conferred with the Golden Arrow of Achievement, including Nations University’s Dr. Brian O’Toole, former volleyball player, Lenox Shuffler, educator Donna Chapman, trade unionist Norris Witter and broadcaster, Dr. Rovin Deodat. Distance athlete, Cleveland Forde, animal rights activist, Syeada Manbodh, Desiree Edghill and broadcaster, Julie Lewis were among those persons who were conferred with the Medal of Service. Commissioner of Police Leslie James was conferred with the Disciplined Services Star while the Disciplined Services Medal was conferred on Deputy Commissioner of Police, Paul Williams as well as retired Divisional Fire Officer, Patrick Carmichael.

Retired Justice Oslen Small being conferred with the Cacique Crown of Honour by President David Granger (Delano Williams photograph)

Police Commissioner Leslie James shortly after he was conferred with the Disciplined Services Star by President David Granger (Delano Williams photograph)

Arrow of of Achievement Achievement from from Arrow ))

National athlete Cleveland Forde is all smiles as he is being conferred with the Medal of Service by President David Granger (Delano Williams photograph)

Photographer Sandra Prince after she was conferred with the Medal of Service by President David Granger. Prince, who is attached to the Ministry of the Presidency, has served in her current capacity for some two decades (Delano Williams photograph)

Deputy Commissioner of Police Paul Williams being conferred with the Disciplined Services Medal by the President (Delano Williams photograph)

he gathering gathering at at the the Investiture Investiture Ceremony Ceremony (Delano (Delano Williams Williams photograph) photograph) he

Casey Hastings of the Cuyuni/Mazaruni being conferred with the Medal of Service by President Granger for his contribution to his community (Delano Williams photograph)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

ERC receives donation to improve public awareness drive

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) received a donation of a new computer and printer for its public awareness drive from the RK’s Family Human Development Foundation. According to a press statement, Chairman of the newly-formed foundation and also a Commissioner of the ERC, Haji Roshan Khan, learnt of some of the technological constraints facing the Commission and came forward and made the donation. “We’ve just started and looking at opportunities where we can make contributions when we can as a family group to human development,” Khan remarked during the simple handing over ceremony. Reverend and ERC Chairman, Dr. John O. Smith, called the gesture a ‘‘very, very, kind one” and expressed gratitude to the foundation on behalf of the ERC and its commissioners. He recognised the importance of the new equipment and emphasised that

ERC Chairman (centre left) and Roshan Khan (centre right) flanked by ERC staff and Commissioners

it will add to the capacity of the ERC to do its work, after years of inactivity. “We’ve had a seven year hiatus and now we are coming back with some more strength,” the ERC Chair-

man concluded. ERC Commissioner and Chairman of the ERC Media and Public Relations Sub-Committee, Neaz Subhan, explained that the new ERC took office after the

‘We are planning to link UG to Giftland Mall’ –– Patterson reveals THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure is currently in talks with the University of Guyana (UG) and the Giftland Mall to construct a walkway connecting the two facilities. This is according to the subject Minister, David Patterson. Minister Patterson in a comment under a Facebook post he had made, said, “We are in discussions with UG and Giftland Mall to build a walkway connecting UG and the mall...” The minister continued, saying that the walkway will be accessible, secure and will serve to allow students greater transportation and entertainment options. This is in the wake of construction projects that are currently ongoing at the University’s Turkeyen campus. Among them, are the

recently constructed roadways providing access to the campus; the newly commissioned maintenance facility; and a northwestern lecture room, commonly known as the UGLR building. Students and minibus drivers expressed their satisfaction with the newly rehabilitated entrance road, deeming it “fit and proper” for realising their transportation needs and comfort. One student, Courtlee Rodrigues said, “What I particularly like is that it benefits all road users, they reinforced the speed bumps to derail persons from racing—I can ride smoothly and without fear.” Other students said the connecting roadway will be a project they will sup-

port. They believe that, the location of the roadway will limit the threats to their persons as opposed to using the UG access road. According to the university’s website, there are other plans in the pipeline inclusive of plans to construct mathematics and science buildings. It also speaks of the university’s plans to launch its new Department of Petroleum and Geological Engineering, slated for commencement of works in January 2019. The Guyana Chronicle made efforts to contact an official of UG for a comment, but efforts proved futile.

2018 budget was already passed and as such the commission is a bit constrained to procure technical resources at this time for its expanding staff complement.

The newly-acquired equipment will be used by the Public Education and Awareness Unit of the ERC in its on-going awareness programme. Emphasis will be

placed on education for the promotion of unity, harmony and good relations and to enlighten Guyanese about the role and functions of the ERC.

MoPH, UG host health fair

MENTAL health was the main focus when the Ministry of Public Health and the Faculty of Health Sciences hosted a health fair at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen campus on Wednesday. World Mental Health Day was observed for the first time on October 10, 1992. It was started as an annual activity of the World Federation for Mental Health by then Deputy Secretary-General, Richard Hunter. Speaking at the event, Volda Lawrence, Minister of Public Health, stated: “this year, World Mental Health Day is being celebrated amongst fear, conflicts and political and economic challenges in almost every corner of the world…” She added that with such a scenario, mental health has assumed even greater importance to governments worldwide. Lawrence also stated that global statistics have been established that depression is the third leading cause of mental illness and suicide is the second leading cause of death among the 15-29 age groups.

Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence and other officials at the health fair

She continued by saying that the World Health Organisation focused on adolescence for this year’s observance with the theme being “Young people and mental health in the changing world.” “Our adolescents and young adults face challenges on a daily basis, which can be caused by factors such as unemployment , starting university, inadequate home and sufficient meals. Unfortunately, if these feelings are not recognised and managed they can eventually lead to mental illness,” said Minister Lawrence. She further stated that support programmes need to be intensified, so as

to build mental health resilience and coping strategies for mental challenges. Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed, said persons with mental and social disabilities represent a portion of the world population. She added that mental health is not only a heath or medical concern, it is also an issue of human rights, communities and social justice. Also speaking at the event was Country Representative of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Dr William Adu –krow.

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15 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Five new diplomats accredited ...cooperation in oil and gas, mining promised

Ambassador of the Kingdom of The Netherlands Jacob Rijkert Frederiks delivers his brief speech to the President (Delano Williams photos)

PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday accredited five ambassadors and high commissioners from Tanzania, Nigeria, Norway, Chile and the Netherlands, who have all pledged their countries’ commitment to forge deeper cooperation in the areas of oil and gas, climate change, security and defence, mining and agriculture. At State House, the President accepted the envoys’ Letters of Credence as he welcomed the diplomats to Guyana and relayed best wishes to their heads of state. Represented were: High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania, Emmanuel John Nchimbi; High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Hassan Jika Ardo;

Ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Jacob Rijkert Frederiks; Ambassador of the Republic of Chile, Patricio Arturo Becker Marshall; and Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway, Nils Martin Gunneng. Presenting his documents to the president, High Commissioner Nchimbi stated that Tanzania, through its relations with Guyana, hopes to strengthen ties in the areas of oil and gas, sugar, gold and diamond mining, agriculture and the exchange of technical know-how. Guyana and Tanzania have shared diplomatic relations since 1970, with high-level visits of former Prime Minister Forbes Burnham in 1970 and former President Desmond Hoyte in 1986. As such, President

High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania, Emmanuel John Nchimbi, presents his Letters of Commission to President David Granger

President David Granger shares light conversation with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway, Nils Martin Gunneng, at State House on Wednesday

Granger told the high commissioner that his appoint-

President David Granger and Ambassador of the Republic of Chile, Patricio Arturo Becker Marshall (centre), take a photograph along with Attorney General Basil Williams (second left) and other officials

ment can help to advance a long-term strategic partner-

ship between the two states. “Guyana can learn from Tanzania’s experience in ecotourism, in managing its conservation parks and in protecting its biodiversity. Green development cooperation can form a basis for strengthening bilateral relations,” he said. Meanwhile, Ambassador Frederiks signalled the Netherlands’ interest to share its expertise in the areas of coastal defence; water management and resilient crops in the face of global warming. “The challenges faced by your country and mine are not identical; and yet there are many areas where we could work together and share experiences,” he said. Speaking to the ‘Dutch disease’ which has become synonymous with the mis-

management of natural resources, the ambassador said that Guyana will soon face its own challenge to avoid such negative consequences. He added that while the Netherlands’ example is not a solution, he will gladly make his network of contacts available to the government should they appreciate cooperation in that regard. President Granger said that Guyana and The Netherlands share bonds of history through which even the names of some of its streets, villages and townships are testaments to its Dutch heritage. He expressed his appreciation for the technical assistance provided by the Netherlands Government to Guyana thus far in the fields of Turn to page 17 ►

High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania, Emmanuel John Nchimbi, shares a photo with the President

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Thousands attend career fair extravaganza

The music booth was not without visitors and enthusiasts

SOME 3,000 children from primary and secondary schools in the Region Four Education District were exposed to career opportunities at a massive career extravaganza held at Hope Secondary School, East Coast Demerara. The extravaganza was a shift from the career fairs which were previously held, education officials told the Guyana Chronicle. Education Officer, Loren Parks, FROM PAGE

who has supervisory responsibility for the secondary department in the region, explained that the event was the fourth instalment of an education fair but the name this year was changed. He said after the department carefully reviewed the activities held previously, a decision was made to make the events more interactive, hence, the name change. “We wanted it to be more interactive where the children

Five new ...

civil engineering, floodrisk management and hydraulics. “Guyana, a low-lying, coastal state, is conscious of the peril of rising sea levels and extreme weather as a consequence of global warming. We look forward to continued cooperation with The Netherlands in promoting climate adaptation and in the development of climate-resilient infrastructure, particularly during your tenure as ambassador,” he said. Climate change At the same forum, Ambassador Gunneng during his presentation stated that Guyana and Norway have shared ties since 1979 with several initiatives dedicated to the fight against climate change. As Guyana becomes a major oil-and-gas producer, Gunneng expressed his coun-

try’s willingness to assist the country in eventually making the shift from natural gas to renewable energy and other areas of the environment. President Granger affirmed the same, highlighting signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on issues related to climate change, the protection of biodiversity and the enhancement of sustainable development. “The partnership has helped to improve forest management, preserve rainforests and biodiversity and prepare for greater renewable energy generation and use… Guyana looks forward to enhanced environmental cooperation with Norway, based on the principle of sovereign equality of states, as it progresses along a low-emission pathway to development,”

A group of children inspecting items at the Guyana Police Force booth

come into a mini work study environment so rather than having agencies and NGOs just coming and speak to our children, we thought it best to have them come and interact with them and give them practical experiences. We wanted them to go to the booths and be engaged in the various fields of study,” Parks told this publication. He said, at the recently concluded career extravaganza, once a

the President said. Meanwhile, High Commissioner Ardo of Nigeria stated that relations between the two countries can provide greater opportunities for private sector investment, cultural exchange and air service travel. Ambassador Marshall, too, related that mining, energy, security and telecommunication are just some of the fields in which further Guyana-Chile partnerships could see greater mutual development. President Granger similarly expressed opportunities for partnerships with Nigeria in the areas of culture, petroleum development, and security and trade, while Guyana and Chile, he said, could best forge cooperation in disaster management, oil and gas and climate change. To all the diplomats, the President wished the very best of success in discharging their duties and fulfilling their mandates.

child entered a booth, the persons manning the booth immediately interacted with the child. “For example when a child walks into the music booth, in that booth they will be able to identify notes and keys and would also be exposed to voice training,” he said. Regional Education Officer, Tiffany Favourite-Harvey explained that the department invited all the secondary and primary schools in the region to participate in the

event. She pointed out that due to the high numbers, a decision was made for students to visit the booths at various times during the two-day event. This, she said, prevented overcrowding at the venue and enabled a better learning environment. The fair sought to help students make the right choice regarding their career path.

PM off to India for Tamil conference

PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo departed Guyana for Pondicherry in South India to inaugurate the World Tamil Economic Conference, a release from the Office of the Prime Minister said. He is accompanied by Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo. Nagamootoo, himself of Tamil ancestry, will join other world business leaders at the event which takes place during October 12-15, and he will make a pitch for investments in Guyana. Keynote addresses will be delivered by Mauritius President, Pillai Valyapuri, and Special Guests from South Africa and Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, later this month a team of investors from Gem Granite Group of Companies in Chennai is expected in Guyana. Gem’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Veeramani, visited Guyana last year, and showed interest in investing in granite and forestry products.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

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Chronicle Pepperpot October12, 7, 2018 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October

Government’s Youth Employment and Entrepreneurial Strategy

Employment is essential to human development as it provides financial resources for the generation of sustainable livelihoods, thereby improving the standard of living and quality of life of people. In Guyana, youth unemployment remains a central issue affecting young people. Recognising this, President David Granger and his administration have designed a two-pronged approach to youth empowerment in the forms of entrepreneurship and education. In this week’s Government in Action, we will take a look at the Government’s efforts aimed at not only creating jobs, but the promotion of agro-processing and entrepreneurship and the opportunities and financial support available for young entrepreneurs, particularly at the Small Business Bureau (SBB), the Ministry of Social Protection and through other programmes facilitated by the various Ministries.

expand or consolidate their businesses. At that event, President Granger in his address to the entrepreneurs said that the programme will open new doors for occupation through self-employment, adding that there are four pillars necessary for enterprise: investment, information, infrastructure and innovation. The President said that the government wants to create an environment, which can provide the facilities for young people to be self-employed. “We are bringing all the youth programmes together to have a common core curriculum so that every child, whether or not he or she is a school dropout, who enters that programme will get common training, which will prepare him or her to get employment in Guyana. I don’t like to see young children, some of them who have left secondary school in the Rupununi for example, drifting over to Brazil to do menial work. I think they can stay here and get a good living, not only because oil is on the horizon but because we can produce practically every food that the Eastern Caribbean needs. The country is wide open and it is open to you… Your education will not only equip you for employment but it will also equip you for entrepreneurial activities so that you can become rich,” the Head of State said at a youth luncheon held at State House in January 2018. Another has been the SLED initiative, which was launched in September 2016 by the Government of Guyana under the Ministry

Chief Executive Officer of the Small Business Bureau (SBB), Dr. Lewell Porter

Demerara (Region Three), Demerara-Mahaica (Region Four), Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five), East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six) and the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice (Region 10) regions. EMPOWERMENT THROUGH President David Granger, who delivered ENTREPRENEURSHIP the feature address at that event, said that the answer to tackling unemployment can be While training and vocational education found through investments in education and will no doubt empower a generation of talentrepreneurship and the SLED initiative is a ented young people, who in most cases just part of that investment. need a second chance, this administration has “The SLED Initiative is part of a prodemonstrated that it is interested in inculcating gramme that reinforces the administration’s a culture of industry and entrepreneurship. In efforts to stimulate economic development in this regard, programmes have been developed communities, especially at the grass root level. to provide the necessary support for budding It has provided training, mentorship, business development skills and start-up grants to individuals and groups,” President Granger said on that occasion. Minister of Communities, Mr Ronald Bulkan, in his remarks, said the origin of the SLED Initiative is contained in the vision of President David Granger, who at the time of expressing this vision was Opposition Leader, and who spoke of the challenges facing the country’s young people, including the high rate of unemployment. He said that the beneficiaries and entrepreneurs were among the first to take advantage of this helping hand offered by the Government. “This initiative tries to ensure that we don’t leave anyone out of the loop The Government of Guyana has supported this Tomato Processing Project in Paramakatoi of having that better life. Every inVillage, Potaro Siparuni (Region Eight). The Project targets small-scale tomato farmers, giving tervention ensures that there is a level of training, mentoring and technical them an opportunity to earn a livelihood. support, even after the project is completed. Building the capacity, ability entrepreneurs, while others focus on skills of Communities as a means of introducing and the right to earn and sustain a livelihood of training to aid in employment ability. job-creation measures to promote micro and In the area of entrepreneurship, pro- small-scale enterprises so as to open opportu- the most vulnerable in society would be futile grammes such as the Linden Enterprise Net- nities for the disadvantaged and the county’s and unsustainable, if that is not complemented work (LEN), which was launched in December youth. Through this initiative, scores of young by institutional strengthening at a local gov2016, provide support to young people aspiring people are given the chance to tap into resourc- ernment and community level that can offer along these lines. The programme provides es that allow them to become business owners. support mechanisms and services to strengthen entrepreneurs across Linden and other parts The initiative has, since its implementation, local economic activities at a grassroots level,” of the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice region enabled more than 100 youth business start- he said. the opportunity to access loans to further ups from among the Essequibo Islands-West

SMALL BUSINESS BUREAU In his 2018 National Budget presentation, Minister of Finance, Mr Winston Jordan said that the David Granger-led Administration recognises the important role that entrepreneurship and by extension, the private sector, play in generating employment and income. It is imperative, therefore, that the Government continues to strengthen the fabric of micro and small businesses, especially those owned by vulnerable groups, through the alleviation of prohibitive constraints, he said. This is where the Small Business Bureau (SBB) plays a critical role. Chief Executive Officer of the SBB, Dr. Lewell Porter, in an interview with the Public Information and Press Services Unit of the Ministry of the Presidency, said that the agency is mandated to not only assist small businesses to develop but is also responsible for helping them to access financing for their businesses and to advocate for Policy development, which can grow and develop this sector. In terms of financing, Dr Porter said that the Bureau provides grants starting from $300,000 to one million dollars to young entrepreneurs, who have viable ideas once they fulfil the established requirements. “We require you to, first of all, be a registered kind of the small business and when you do that, we verify a couple of things because the Small Business Act defines the small business as any business that has less than 25 employees and the gross annual revenues is less than 16 million and the business assets is less than $20 million so as long as you meet two of those requirements, you can be registered as a small business. You come to us with a business side to your plan. We will sit down with you and try to understand the viability and the sustainability of that plan and if you benefit for a loan or a grant. Grants are usually for startupS to just give it that impetus to continue in their effort, so the grant process is simple access for the grant. We will come to do a site visit to ensure that you are who you say, whatever you said to us is correct, this is our verification process and then from that, we come back and there is a committee that meets and then they say whether that persons get a grant or not,” Dr. Porter said. In addition to this, the SBB helps small business owners to access loans at Republic Bank Limited and the Guyana Bank and Trade Industry (GBTI) for the expansion of their businesses. The SBB provides the technical assistance in completing the application and helping the individual to acquire all necessary documentation to access a loan. It also issues a referral letter to the bank for the client. In addition to this, it provides 70 per cent of the capital for the small business borrower. Dr Porter noted that since the inception of the programme in 2014, approximately 173 loans have been approved and more than 530 grants given out. For 2018 alone, more than

Chronicle Pepperpot October 7, 2018week ending October 12, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition 50 grants have been approved and 17 loans facilitated. Approximately 40 percent of the Bureau’s clients are young people between the ages of 18-35. The CEO said that the SBB recognises that young people play a critical role in the development in the country and in most cases, need someone with the financial capabilities to support their creativity and vision. The Small Business Bureau, he said, is more than happy to play this role. “I think the Small Business Bureau has an exceptional role here in the development of small businesses. Let’s say specifically youth, I personally believe that small businesses are the backbone of any economy and with all these business ideas that we have floating around, if

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH EDUCATION Education also plays a critical role in empowering young minds to pursue ventures and opportunities, which can provide them with a means of income and independence. That is why the Government has been placing heavy emphasis on access to education and providing opportunities for empowerment even to those who have dropped out of school. In his 2018 Budget presentation to the National Assembly, Minister of Finance, Mr. Winston Jordan said that the Government acknowledges that youth represent a significant proportion of Guyana‘s population and that the future success and growth of Guyana depends

President David Granger visits a booth owned by this young lady at the Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition (RACE) at the Lusignan Community Centre in November 2017.

we look back at some of the richest persons in the world today they had a simple idea, their ideas were sometimes shut down but then somebody came up and said “you know what? Let me put 10,000 into your fund to help you”. So, in the same way, we’re trying to help you, so it’s young people we are targeting to come up with all of these fantastic ideas and to see how we can help them grow. So come down to us, let us help our young people to develop into something fantastic,” he said. In addition to financing opportunities, the Bureau also arranges training sessions for small businesses owners to hone their skills. While specialised training are offered in some areas, it also focuses on generic business training areas including how to develop a business idea, how to write a business plan, how to record financial information, marketing and dealing with clients. “We also do specific business training. We have a sustainable mining programme, sustainable forestry training. We did cosmetology training because we believe that there is a need for having a higher level of cosmetologists here in Guyana so we hired a consultant from the United States and it was excellent. An excellent programme, free of cost for everybody attending. We just don’t want to be able to say that we gave out twenty million in loans but what was done with that money, we want to make sure that it is contributing to the betterment of those entrepreneurs,” the CEO said. Minister Jordan in his Budget 2018 speech, said that additional support to micro and small businesses will be delivered in 2018, through the creation of business incubators and accelerators in Regions 5 and 9 at a cost of $36 million. These structures will foster the growth of businesses by facilitating the provision of support services, such as business registration, documentation, and capacity building. Meanwhile, the sum of $100 million has been allocated in Budget 2018 to replenish the Small Business Development Fund. This will be managed by the SBB.

on how equipped this section of the population is to handle emerging and future challenges. The Government, he said, stands resolute towards ensuring that concerted efforts are made in satisfying the needs of young people. In this regard, Government‘s approach to the development of our young people is based on the twin pillars of youth empowerment; and youth employment and entrepreneurship. “In relation to Youth Employment, several initiatives have been, and are currently being, rolled out to ensure that our young people are gainfully employed in environments where their skill sets can be readily applied, and where they can make meaningful contributions. The Youth Innovation Project of Guyana (YIPoG), Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training (YEST), Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) Programme, and the Hinterland Employment and Youth Scheme (HEYS), are programmes designed to ensure that youth attain the relevant skill-set that is required for the job market, either to become employable or be their own bosses. Taken together, in 2018, Government will be investing over $1.7 billion on youth programmes,” he said. One such initiative which looks at vocational training is the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS), which was launched in October 2016. This is an exchange programme where persons teach, discuss, learn and exchange experiences and knowledge in order to improve their standard of living and contribute positively to the development of their communities. The programme includes training and capacity-building in several key areas including plumbing, carpentry, sewing and wiring among many other vocational areas. It targets 2000 youth in 106 communities across the hinterland regions and is in keeping with President Granger’s promise of improving lifestyles and standards of living for youth and young adults who reside in the hinterland. Then there’s the Youth Innovation Project,

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which seeks to engender creative thinking amongst youth, and provides grant resources up to $2 million to finance innovative solutions. In and out of school youth, between the ages of 16-35, are benefitting from this programme. “The project, which operates under the theme, ?Aspire, Inspire to reach?, was designed to decrease unemployment among youth; engage youth in the development of a green state; and foster creative thinking for problem solving through Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Anthropology, Archaeology, Architecture, Arts, Mathematics and Spirituality. In this regard, Government has invited youth to submit proposals for financing,” the Minister of Finance noted. SUPPORTING THE YOUTH It is imperative that the Government creates and maintain institutions, which can provide young people with vocational and technical skills that can make them marketable, thereby improving their quality of life. This is where the Board of Industrial Training plays a critical role. Chairman of the Board, Mr. Clinton Williams, in an interview with the Public Information and Press Services Unit of the Ministry of the Presidency said that in addition to running an apprenticeship programme, since 2005 it has been offering training programmes in a number of areas, which caters to primarily vulnerable youths in society and school dropouts. “That has in fact been our main focus; to train people with those skills that are required by the various sectors in the country. That programme has generated thousands of skills in various skills profiles. We categorise them as technical, commercial and clerical skills and so on, welding, fabrication, carpentry, mechanical engineering, and a whole host of other skills. We have been tracing what happened to those skills that we produce and also where they are employed and who employs them and so far, 65 percent of those we have trained are gainfully employed,” he said. For the past 18 years, the organisation has generated over 20660 artisans and semiskilled workers that have been added to the workforce. Additionally, the renewed focus of training implemented under the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE) programme has shaped the opportunity for the beneficiaries to gain entry into the regular programme of recognised Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions,

communities that are considered to be vulnerable and we have done programmes in Region 4 and this year we will be working in Agricola, Linden, Region Three and Region Nine and they are intended to satisfy some requirements to ensure employable skills and poverty alleviation and improve economic independence,” Mr. Williams said. Mr. Williams explained that the certificates received by the students are regionally and internationally accepted and provides an opportunity for young people to not only be gainfully employed but to also become entrepreneurs. “Our programmes are so intense in terms of the quality assurance that we believe that whenever we issue a certificate, then that certificate gains acceptance and recognition by a number of agencies and countries. We have now moved on based on an arrangement we have with the Caribbean National Training Agency (CANTA) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat to now award the CARICOM Vocational Qualification (CVQ). All those programmes ultimately will have substantial marketability in the sense that we can use them to gain employment not only in Guyana but elsewhere so the recognition is assured,” he said. For 2018, BIT plans to implement its NTPYE programme in 18 areas across the 10 administrative regions of Guyana in the areas of block making/masonry, boat building, electrical installation, Fitting Machine, Food Preparation, Garment construction, General Building Construction, Heavy Duty Equipment Operation, Information Technology, Motor Vehicle Repairs, Plumbing, Refrigeration/Air Condition, Small Engine Repairs, Supervisory Training and Welding and Fabrication. Additionally, during the year BIT is scheduled to commence the implementation of training for the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) in Boat Building, General Building Construction, Heavy-Duty Equipment Operator Maintenance and Repair, JAWS Computer Training for Persons with Visual Disabilities, Small Engine Repairs and Solar Photovoltaic training in installation, maintenance and repair of Solar Photovoltaic equipment. These trainings will be implemented in all 10 administrative regions and is expected to realise the empowerment of approximately 1400 persons. The Board is also looking to partner with the University of Guyana to accept the students exiting its training programmes since they are brought up to the entrance level requirements through the rigorous training programmes.

Concrete blocks made by one of the participants of the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS)

such as the Mahaicony Technical Vocational Educational Training Centre in Region 5, the New Amsterdam Technical Institute and the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre in Region Three. The Board has also worked alongside the Office of the First Lady to train students from villages in Regions 4 and 10 in information and Communication technology. The Chairman said that plans are in train to take the programme to other vulnerable communities across the country. “We are very happy to work with her [the First Lady] to generate skills particularly in vulnerable areas, for out of school youths in

Such initiatives will help to mould Guyana’s future and they reinstate the government’s commitment to ensuring ‘a good life for all’ through education, employment and enterprise. Moreover, as time progresses, through the government’s commitment, we will see the introduction of more such programmes that aim to ensure that the country’s young people indeed get the chance to enjoy this good life. The President believes that such initiatives help in overcoming the problem of unemployment and will also help to create a generation of young people who will become the new entrepreneurial class.

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Chronicle Pepperpot October 7, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Discovering the magic of realism

Joanna Suchit By Dominique Hunter

A CURSORY glance at the artwork produced by Joanna Suchit would suggest an artist who has had years of experience in the field, perhaps even working as an apprentice under the learned eye of some great master artist or the other. There is confidence and directness in the way she paints that would convince you of this. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, it was something she took up rather impulsively and has since held onto, determined to see it through regardless of where it might lead. At just 22 years old, the former President’s College student described her years at the school as having done nothing to encourage any form of artistic endeavour. “I absolutely hated art in President’s College. It was in 2015, the same year I applied to the art school, that I met a friend who was showing me his artwork. I didn’t think it was very nice. So I decided to try

ing up before her, energising her practice and encouraging her to press on in spite of what was happening around her. Speaking on some of the challenges

instinctual response to her various subject matters that ultimately led to her decision to employ what she refers to as “intro reality” as the conceptual framework of her art. The result of this was an allowance for the kind of self-reflection that eventually manifested in the form of a visibly diverse group of paintings that are all connected thematically. “It’s like introspection but more about me accepting who I am,” she explained. “Once I based the work off of myself, it opened up a wide range of paintings for me. Whether it was still life painting or portraiture, everything just made sense because it was about my emotions and my expressions. It’s my way of speaking without actually speaking.” This new personal philosophy represented quite a significant shift considering her early resistance to making art. She went on to explain that her transition from one extreme to the other in such a short amount of time did not go unnoticed. In fact, it fostered a deep appreciation for the

Portrait of Sanna

The Confession

she would have encountered during her time at the art school, Suchit explained that aside from the steep material costs attached to pursuing art formally, she managed to keep most of her challenges at bay by envisioning her goals and training her mind to stay fixed on them. “Nothing really bothered me in the art school. I knew what I wanted to do so I just focused on that,” she said. When asked whether her art-making process could be described as premeditated or intuitive, Suchit explained that her preference is to make

been teaching painting and drawing classes. More recently she has been employed as an art tutor at her alma mater, President’s College. While she admits that she is often filled with pride to witness each student’s growth as they realise their individual potential, she can also be quite disheartened by the alarming rate at which many students abandon their dream of pursuing art professionally. “I’ve seen so many persons drop out of the art school. All it takes is commitment, a little bit of patience and understanding that you won’t get it right away.” Her advice to the art school hopefuls out there is simple: “Remain committed and have patience because those are the two things that you need in order to get through.”

Untitled

my own thing to show him that I could do better than that. And I did. The next month I gathered all the work I made and used them to apply to [the E.R. Burrowes School of Art].” For someone with no prior art training and a general aversion to the subject itself, her first portfolio of artwork was impressive enough to secure her a spot in the school’s three-year diploma programme. And while she admitted there was an initial feeling of overwhelming dread about having to complete the institution’s many introductory courses, Suchit quickly realised how crucial they were to her growth as a creative practitioner. She readily acknowledged that it was the exposure to those subject areas she was less enthused about that allowed her the opportunity to mature in both her personal and professional life. She went on to explain that soon after embracing the sometimes-uncomfortable nature of her new creative journey, her eyes were opened to the endless possibilities each art medium presented individually, as well as in combination with each other. Suddenly new avenues for experimentation were open-

Camila Sinensin and Poison

free flowing work, far removed from the burdensome nature of any kind of planning. She is not one to resolve ideas through multiple sketches and/or colour studies. Instead, her approach is much more visceral and it relies heavily on instantaneous decision-making. It was precisely this type of

incredible talent she discovered once she changed her mindset. “When I understood portraiture and I could control the brush, instead of having it control me, that’s when I started to smile. I would say I am blessed with the skill to paint because in three years I’ve acquired so much. I wasn’t practising art before but I caught on really quickly. So I’m very grateful for that.” Now that she is no longer working under the constraints of a rigid art school curriculum, Suchit is hopeful about making time in her daily schedule to strengthen her figure painting techniques. One particular subject area she has expressed a desire to study even further is human anatomy. She explained that once she has a thorough understanding of how the figure operates, whether in motion or at rest, she would much closer to mastering realism and taking her work to the next level. In addition to her love of art, she has been pursuing another equally fulfilling passion: teaching. Suchit works part-time at the E.R. Burrowes School of Art, where she has

Self Portrait

Suchit’s hard work and discipline has certainly not been overlooked. She recently graduated from the E.R. Burrowes School of Art where she was the recipient of the ‘Best Graduating Diploma Student’ award and the ‘Most Outstanding Student’ award, all of which she has expressed profound gratitude to have obtained. “Being valedictorian is something I’ve dreamt about and for that dream to come true is absolutely amazing. It feels good knowing my hard work paid off,” she said with enthusiasm.

IV Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

Guyanese legend

Chronicle Pepperpot September 23, 2018 21

Eddy Grant

is Global Ambassador for Guyana Reparations Committee

-Devotes his life towards preserving Afro-Guyanese heritage he could have only achieved those accolades because of his passion. “Never do anything for money, money must be secondary; do something for the love of it. Develop a passion for it and wake up and live it,” Grant said. When asked if he has intentions of returning to Guyana to host a concert, he said he is willing once he gets sponsorship. AFRO-GUYANESE HISTORY The vocalist said that his brand “Ring Bang” was launched specially to donate the money to the teachings of African history in Guyana. He said that when one purchases the “Ring Bang” line of clothing then they will be supporting that cause. “I don’t want wealth from this. I am wearing Ring Bang hats, belts, shirts and shoes, all these are available online. Guyanese should start shopping this brand since every dollar Seventy-year-old Edmond Montague “Eddy” Grant wearing his Ring Bang brand

One of Grant’s fans getting an autograph from him

his father would listen to him because he was the eldest child. He said that trust is important and vividly remembers whenever something went wrong around the house everyone would rely on him for information, because the trust was there. Grant said that

he was a small boy he has been listening to Grant’s music and although he had migrated to the United States of America, his love for his songs never changed. According to his discography, Eddy Grant has released 15 studio albums, 13 compilation albums and 19 singles. His album “Killer on the Rampage” peaked at Number 10 on the Billboard 200 charge in the United States of America and was

By Indrawattie Natram GUYANESE-BRITISH vocalist and musician Edmond Montague “Eddy” Grant is now the Global Ambassador for the Guyana Reparations Committee. This announcement was made at an outreach conducted in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on September 18 and 19 by the Guyana Reparations Committee. During the outreach, the Plaisance-born vocalist interacted with residents and school children from across the region. During an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine, the 70-year-old Grant said that his main aim as the Global Ambassador is to educate the world on the history and struggles of Afro-Guyanese. As the Global Ambassador, he intends to spread the rich Afro-Guyanese history everywhere he travels. With his brand “Ringbang” and his recently launched album ‘Plaisance’, the vocalist said he will spread the message across the World. Born in Plaisance Village, East Coast Demerara, he said his new album which features singles such as “Now We are together”, “I am the one”, “True to You” and “Key to your heart”, are all set out to reflect on his early life in the village. Grant said that Plaisance is dear to him and boasted that he may be the only person in the world that has his village as his place of birth. During interactions with Essequibo residents at the various outreaches, he said that in order for someone to be successful, they have to be involved in something they love and have a passion for. Music, he attested, was his greatest passion since childhood and today, he is known as the Kings of the Kings of Soca and Calypso music. He explained that

During his visit to Queenstown Village in Region Two

earned will be given back to Guyana,” Grant said. Having supported the Guyana Reparations Committee, Grant said that the Ancestral Land Rights Bill is important, and as such he called on all Afro-Guyanese to support it. He said that many Afro-Guyanese are suffering from memory loss in the sense that they are forgetting the struggles of their African ancestors. He said that slavery destroyed African history and African culture and therefore called on the younger generation to get hold of a copy of the “The Guyana Reparations Story” by Eric M Phillips and Jonathan O.P Adams. “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture, is like a tree without roots. Up, you mighty race, accomplish what you will, the black skin is not a badge of shame, but rather a glorious symbol of national greatness,” is one snippet of the book that he shared. Grant recalled his childhood days when

the Guyana Reparations Committee will be asking the government for 15,000 square miles of land to be given to the descendants of enslaved Africans as reparation. He said that the request is a fair one given the struggles the Africans faced on the plantations. The Guyanese vocalist posing with two young fans “We need to stop hurting each other and work together. The Africans need their identity, we must be able to trace back where exactly our foreparents came from, and we must be able certified as Gold. His single “Electric Avto visit our foreparents’ birth land,” Grant enue” received Platinum accreditations in the U.. and “I don’t wanna dance” topped said. Those who interacted with Grant were the charts in five countries including Belhonoured to meet the Guyanese singer. One gium, Ireland and the United Kingdom. such person was Ishmael Thomas, who can- In 200, his Ring Bang remix of “Electric celled all his plans when he heard that the Avenue” reached Number Five in the UK singer was visiting. Thomas said that since Singles Chart.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

BCB launches 2019 Mike’s Pharmacy Under-15 tournament WITH just over two months before the end of the year, the pro-active Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has launched its 2019 Inter-club Under-15 tournament. The BCB only completed its 2018 tournament in September but in its quest to be properly prepared for the Inter-county season which begins in February 2019, the 2019 Edition was launched early. The tournament will begin in three weeks, using the required date of birth for the 2019 Inter-county season. BCB president Hilbert Foster stated that the 2018 Inter-club tournament was a huge success with Albion Community Centre being crowned Champions after defeating favourites Rose Hall Town Farfan & Mendes by six runs at the Albion Sports Complex. Players like Jonathan Rampersaud, Mahendra Gopilall, Leon Cecil, Pavendra Ganesh, Hemendra Gurdyal, Rampertab Ramnauth, Jonathan De Veira, Jeremy Sandia, Isiah Thorne, Zeymul Ramsammy, Shreedat Roopnarine, Hemchand Ragubeer, Andy Thagraj dominated the last tournament with outstanding individual performances. Foster expects at least 20 teams to participate in the tournament which would be used to select players for sev-

eral trial matches. A training squad of 26 players would be selected, based on performances after the first three rounds of the tournament, for the trial matches. The trials will be sponsored by Nand Persaud Co. Ltd and the Berbice Team would be selected by the Albert Smith-led selection committee. Once selected, the team would undertake two months of intense training and coaching to be fully prepared to defend their title. Clubs like Albion Community Centre, Rose Hall Town Farfan & Mendes, Blairmont Community Centre, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Young Warriors Cricket Club, Rose Hall Canje, Port Mourant Cricket Club, No. 73 Cricket Club and Plaisance are expected to be among teams taking part in the historic tournament. It would be the first time in the long history of Berbice cricket that a tournament would actually start before the year. Foster stated that with almost all the 2018 Berbice Under-15 players being overage for the 2019 Guyana Cricket Board Tournament, it was very important to start early preparation so that the Berbice selectors would have adequate time to select the best possible replacements. The energetic president was full of praise for the support of Mike’s Pharmacy. The outstanding work of

BCB president Hilbert Foster receives sponsorship from Wayne Johnson of Mike’s Pharmacy.

the BCB, he stated, would not have been possible without the support of sponsors like Mike’s and he has committed his Board to organising another successful tournament. Managing Director Lakeram Singh stated that Mike’s Pharmacy was very impressed by the hard work and organising skills of the

Berbice Cricket Board. Every commitment to Mike’s Pharmacy was fulfilled by the Berbice Board while the company also received massive and widespread media coverage throughout the tournament. Mike’s Pharmacy, Singh disclosed, would continue to support Berbice Cricket once

the game is administered properly. Interested clubs are asked to contact Foster on 3374562, Angela Haniff on 3332375 or Robby Saywack on 660-0049 to register before Monday (October 15). The entrance fee is non-existent but teams would be required to register at least 16 players.

All players will have to be properly attired in white and have a birth certificate to verify date of birth. Players will also have to be attending school as part of the Berbice Cricket Board’s Say Yes to Education Programme.

Digicel/Team Evolution Cancer Awareness Cycle race set for October 21 THE seventh Digicel-sponsored Team Evolution Breast Cancer Awareness five-race cycling event is set to pedal off on Sunday, October 21, when all of the country’s top cyclists are set to invade Georgetown. Held in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness, the marquee will see the senior and junior riders start from Irving Street in the vicinity of Camp Ayanganna, head north to the Roundabout, turn right onto Vlissengen Road, right on to Thomas Lands then back

onto Irving Street for 30 laps, covering an approximate distance of 40 miles. At a launch yesterday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) pavilion, Keith Fernandes of Evolution Cycle Club said that the event is usually one that is high on the agenda of the country’s cyclists and their enthusiasm is primarily based on the significance of the event. The main event, the Novices/Mountain Bikes will be featured in race one, followed

by a race for Children (being held for the first time at the event), a Match Sprint and the race for Veterans (Over- and Under-45 years). Vidya Sanichara of Digicel said while there is no registration fee for the children, others would be required to pay $2 000 to compete. The proceeds from registration would be matched by Digicel and donated to the Cancer Society. Sanichara added that part of the proceeds from the company’s smartphone sales in

October would also be given to the Cancer Society to aid its fight against the disease. This year Banks DIH Limited is on board as a partner, through its Rainforest Waters Brand. The stakeholders are urging members of the public to come out and witness the country’s riders as they compete for a good cause. Registration will start at 07:00hrs on race day and the first event will pedal off at 08:30hrs.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 12, 2018

GFF partners with Ansa McAl to launch ‘Always’ National Women’s Development League … 216 games to be played from October 27, 2018 to March 2019

Ansa McAl’s Head of Business Unit Padma Kunjbeharry (second from left), GFF president Wayne Forde, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe and president of the women’s football association, Andrea Johnson, are flanked by players at the launch of the GFF ‘Always’ Nation-wide women’s football league. (Adrian Narine photo)

By Rawle Toney THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has partnered with distribution giant, Ansa McAl Trading, under their ‘Always’ brand, to launch a National Women’s Football Development League, which is expected to comprise 2016 games to be played across Guyana’s 10 administrative regions from October 27, 2018, to March 2019. With the GFF investing approximately $10M into hosting the event, it is said that the five-month long tournament will be played in an effort to provide a consistent platform for women to play the ‘beautiful game’ and develop their football skills. Mentioning that Guyana’s women’s senior national team have achieved more on the international stage than their male counterparts, taking into consideration that only the women’s side were able to play at two CONCACAF tournaments, GFF president Wayne Forde

believes the National Women’s Football Development League represents his administration’s commitment to ensure that all female players, regardless of location in Guyana, are given the same opportunity. Forde told the gathering of sponsors, players, media and other executive members at the SleepIn Hotel, that the GFF is more than pleased to roll-out a programme that will no doubt create an impact on young girls and other women with aspiration to become football players and more importantly, to do so in an environment that will be safe. “Women’s football is unique in so many ways, because, the football world has discovered that ability to play the game exceptionally well is far-less important to women, but rather, just the opportunity, to have the opportunity to play and to have fair and equal access to the sport and it’s development, means so much more to women and to girls,” said Forde. The GFF boss also highlighted

that “every girl, every woman, who has the desire to play football, must be given an equal opportunit. It’s one of the key mandates of the GFF Executive Committee. This league will create a social messaging platform that we hope will allow us to speak to the issues that affect girls and women; but more importantly, open up new and fresh dialogue that will lead to solution.” Meanwhile, the tournament’s primary sponsor, Ansa McAl, through its head of the Business Unit Padma Kunjbeharry, said the League represents some of core values of her company and as such, the company is happy to come on board. “We are happy with Always to be part of this league, as our tagline says, ‘Let’s rewrite the rule’ … It’s great to see that our women are being pushed in sports that are male-dominated or on male-dominated territory,” Kunjbeharry said. Valerie Garrido-Lowe – Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, who is also

the Patron for women’s football in Guyana, believes that the tournament was long overdue; but she’s more than pleased that, as an advocate for women in the hinterland, women are given a fair chance like those on the coastland. The league will also have an impact on the way the game is viewed on the outskirts of the capital. The minister also noted that her ministry, as usual, will be offering its full support to the GFF to aid in the success of the tournament. The ladies will play in a 7-a-side format and will open in Region One at Kamaka, Anna Regina Region Two, matches will also be played at the Tucville ground and the Wisburg Secondary School ground in Region 10. Also kicking off their leg of the league on October 27 will be Central and North Rupununi, Mahdia and Bartica. Only recently, FIFA launched its first-ever global strategy for women’s football which charts the course for how FIFA will work with

confederations and member associations (MAs), clubs, players, the media, fans and other stakeholders to realise the full potential that exists within the women’s game. FIFA strongly believes that women’s football brings one very important benefit to the many young girls and women involved in the game – empowerment. Encouraging empowerment through football, growing the game, getting more girls involved in it earlier and keeping women in football longer are all key elements of FIFA’s Women’s Football Strategy. The Women’s Football Division will work closely with MAs around the world via workshops and special initiatives to assist them in bringing together key stakeholders to discuss, develop and implement their respective women’s football strategies and to ensure the greatest impact possible of their efforts to develop and grow the women’s game.