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Wednesday, May 26, 2004

ADDRESS TO THE NATION BY HIS EXCELLENCY BHARRAT JAGDEO PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA ON THE OCCASION OF THE 38TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE

Fellow Guyanese:

Today Guyanese everywhere and from all walks of life celebrate the 38th anniversary of our independence. As we do so, it is fitting that we commit ourselves, once again but with even greater fortitude, to serve our people and country.

readmore...

- Guyana has hope of a bright future
- President Jagdeo joins large turnout at Flag Raising Ceremony

After more than three decades of becoming an independent nation, Guyana has hope of a bright future, as it has a proud record of achievements. This is one of the many messages conveyed by president Bharrat Jagdeo in his address to the nation to mark the occasion of the 38th anniversary of independence.

readmore...

Capacity crowd, fireworks make celebrations best in years
- celebrating 38 years of Independence

In a brilliant showing of local talent and creativity, the 38th Independence Anniversary Celebrations held at the National Park last evening saw one of the largest crowds ever.
To a capacity crowd, and after a rich cultural programme, the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted as Guyanese reflected on the first Independence celebrations on May 26, 1966.

readmore...

Mining communities hit by inclement weather

The May/June rains have caused many farmers to lose their crops and quite a few construction projects have been stalled, and the mining industry has not been spared its own set- backs.
Chief Mines Officer of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Jack Morgan, told the Government Information Agency that the inclement weather has severely affected operations in the Mahdia/Potaro, lower Mazaruni and Cuyuni mining districts.

readmore...

“To let progress continue we must put Guyana first”
Minister Sawh tells crowd at Region Two flag raising ceremony

Georgetown, GINA, May 26, 2004

As Guyana celebrates its 38th Independence Anniversary, Guyanese turned out in
their thousands to get a glimpse of the Golden Arrowhead fluttering in the
midnight sky.

readmore...

 

Residents express satisfaction with drainage and irrigation works in Region Two

Georgetown, GINA, May 26, 2004

Residents of Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) have expressed their satisfaction
with the quality of works being effected in the Region.

readmore...

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ADDRESS TO THE NATION BY HIS EXCELLENCY BHARRAT JAGDEO PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GUYANA ON THE OCCASION OF THE 38TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE

May 26th, 2004

Fellow Guyanese:

Today Guyanese everywhere and from all walks of life celebrate the 38th anniversary of our independence. As we do so, it is fitting that we commit ourselves, once again but with even greater fortitude, to serve our people and country.

The attainment of independence on May 26, 1966, remains and will always be, an outstanding landmark in the long history of struggles of our people for freedom. It was the culmination of centuries of monumental battles against injustice that first brought down the cruel system of slavery and secondly the bondage of indentureship. Independence was a defining moment: finally the inhumane and exploitative system of colonialism came to a crashing end.
Thus began the life of a new nation called Guyana and renewed faith in ourselves to be masters of our own destiny.

The lessons of the past will serve us well as we shape the future. Let us seek inspiration from the experiences of our ancestors as we face new challenges to nation building. I am confident that our present generation is imbued with a similar strength of character and determination to accomplish the lofty aspirations that excited our people upon attaining independence.

Fellow Guyanese!
The Guyana we live in today is vastly different from the one that obtained just after independence. In spite of lost opportunities for development and undemocratic rule, we have enhanced our physical landscape in order to live and work under more comfortable conditions. The quality of life of our people has improved. They enjoy healthier and longer lives. More of our children grow up to be strong and productive adults. More Guyanese live in their own homes. Educational opportunities, from primary to university have increased. More of our people have access to public utilities. In short, since independence Guyanese, with their own hands and ingenuity, have improved their lot, and enjoy a higher standard of living.

Equally important is that as Guyanese we have broadened and deepened our rights and freedoms. Today we have one of the most advanced constitutions in this Hemisphere that has constructed a modern framework for our citizens to live in equality and security.

And we did it ourselves. Our people have shown endurance in the face of adversity and made great strides. Even at times when the going was tough we stood strong and withstood those hard times. The result is that during the last three decades, Guyanese have excelled in every endeavour – culture, business, politics, sports and education. Their creativity is evident not only in Guyana but also in many parts of the world.

Fellow Guyanese!
These successes in the past are a great source of encouragement to us as we continue on the path of progress. However, as we move ahead, we must take time to learn from the past so as to avoid pitfalls that could thwart our growth and development. At all times we must remember that it was only when our people were united and free, were they able to overcome difficulties. If we continue to embrace this legacy and live and work in harmony we will achieve that brighter future.

In our march forward, we have done much work to create an enlightened environment that is conducive to the participation of all citizens in the political, economic and social life of the country. The reforms are intended to allow for more active participation and inclusiveness of all sections of society. It is this environment that has contributed to the start of a national dialogue that involved the major political forces.

Our new constitution affords new opportunities to consolidate our multi-party system of democracy and promote greater inclusivity in the conduct of the affairs of the country. This system also allows the political opposition to play an essential role in nation building, not only in parliament but also in many other ways.

Inevitably there will be differences and disagreements between and among political parties. This is the experience in all democracies and especially true in countries such as Guyana where there is freedom of speech, freedom to assemble, a free judiciary and independent national institutions.
However, what is important is for us to resolve differences in a manner that allows for continued development of our country. I believe that our politics has to mature to the point where we can solve our problems without resort to threats of violence or holding hostage the proper functioning of national institutions.

In a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural society like ours, politicians and all others must eschew postures that can sow the seeds of discord and division.
The unity of our people must come first.

The evolution of the national dialogue was a national necessity. It was intended to build trust and create a national ethos of respect, tolerance, an atmosphere of harmony and security. It must be founded on the belief that all Guyanese have a stake in the future of our country and it should not serve selfish political interest. Dialogue cannot be switched on and off at the behest of political expediency.

Recently, I have travelled to many parts of the country meeting our people in their neighbourhoods. I have spoken to Guyanese of all political persuasions and everywhere I went the message was the same: we want to live in unity and to improve our lives.

Fellow Guyanese!
My administration has been working assiduously to enhance our economic fortunes under severe constraints.

We have been adjusting our economy to keep abreast with international trends, especially trade liberalisation and a globalized economy. This has opened up great prospects for Guyana but also presented difficulties. In the assessment of many of our foremost international partners, we have done well in this respect.

The present world situation is also cause for concern – high Budget and Balance of Payments deficits among industrialised nations, currency and stock market volatility, skyrocketing oil prices, diversion of official development assistance, armed conflicts and terrorism impact on the well-being of small countries such as Guyana.

There have been drastic changes in weather patterns over the years that have resulted in un-seasonal rainfall and severe droughts. These natural phenomena are having a severe impact on many economic activities.

Despite these factors, my Administration remains resolutely focussed on our national development agenda – one based on prudent economic management, support for the private sector, inclusive governance and the provision of better infrastructure, social services and security for all our citizens.

Fellow Guyanese,
Our traditional industries are being overhauled and modernised to make them more efficient and competitive. The recent increase in the international prices for gold, rice and some forestry products hopefully will return these sectors to sustained profitability.

In sugar, GUYSUCO is undertaking a massive modernisation programme, best symbolised by the proposed new multi-billion dollar factory in Skeldon. This plant will enhance the international competitiveness of Guyana’s sugar industry, and position the Company to exploit higher value added opportunities. In addition this project will involve co-generation of electricity, the establishment of a distillery and possibly a refinery.

The bauxite industry is starting to emerge from a long period of decline – the difficult and painful reforms of the past decades are starting to pay dividends, as many of the global leaders in bauxite are showing an interest in investing here, given the recent climb in international prices for
bauxite products. Only today, I received a call from the Prime Minister of
Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Patrick Manning bringing me up to date with his country’s plans to build an aluminium smelter. He shared my hope that this project will create linkages for our local bauxite and can impact favourably on the fortunes of the industry.

In the wider agriculture sector, the Government has invested significant amount of resources to support our farmers. In particular, the Government wants to support farmers to move up the value chain and to pursue new market opportunities.

The restructuring of our traditional sectors is being accompanied by a strategy to diversify into other areas of economic activities for export including tourism, agro-processing and other light manufacturing, information technology and related services.

The potential for tourism, and the exploitation of Guyana’s key position as the gateway between the Caribbean and South America, is immense. This sector is making strides and is one of the exciting new growth hubs in the local economy. GUYEXPO is planned for September and this should see record participation and attendance by both Guyanese and overseas visitors.

The government is presently engaged in an aggressive campaign to attract private foreign and new markets for our exports. The Guyana Office for Investment, along with other agencies and our missions overseas and local businesses, has been organising special promotional exhibitions overseas. We already had exhibitions in Suriname, Antigua and Barbados. Next month there will be two others: one in Trinidad and Tobago and Canada. Plans are being made to have such exhibitions in other countries. The feedback so far from local and foreign businesses is good and already these exhibitions have resulted in concrete business arrangements.

Good and reliable infrastructure is the lifeblood of a modern and competitive economy. The Government’s investment in infrastructure this year is unparalleled.

Three large projects are currently engaging our attention: the international conference centre in Lilendaal, the cricket stadium at Providence and the Berbice River Bridge. When completed these projects will enhance the country’s capacity to host international events, offer a top- class sporting venue and reduce the woes associated with delays in the ferry crossing between Rosignol and New Amsterdam. The infrastructure network will be vastly improved by major Drainage and Irrigation, sea defences, roads and bridges and electricity projects that are ongoing or soon to be implemented.

Of particular importance is the expansion of the social programme to deliver more and better quality social services. Already Guyanese are experiencing greater comfort and satisfaction resulting from the huge investments in education, health, housing and water sectors. In education, large sums will be spent this year to improve our school infrastructure, expand teacher training and provide more textbooks at all levels.

Our investment in health this year will hopefully see improved quality and greater access to services. When completed the New Amsterdam Hospital will allow us to better serve the people in Berbice. Also, we have already secured funding for new hospitals in Lethem and Linden and the upgrading of the West Demerara and Georgetown Hospitals.

Housing development and land distribution are proceeding at an unparallel rate and the goals for the next three years are just as ambitious. Since we came to office, the PPP/C administration has distributed over 50,000 house lots. The dreams of so many Guyanese to own a home of their own is being realized under our government. But not only have we given out house lots, we have also instituted measures to ensure affordable mortgage rates for low-income families. In addition we plan to spend in excess of US$28M to put in infrastructure in several low income settlements throughout the country.

These significant public investments apart from improving services, create thousands of jobs to complement those created by private investment.

Despite the government investing significant sums in the various sectors, we still hear citizens complain about irritants in several parts of the country. It is time that we improve our management of resources and make better use of the facilities we are putting in place. I believe that those who are managing the various systems will get far better results if they try a little harder and show some compassion and care for the general public.
Instances of misuse of resources, mismanagement of resources and corruption must be weeded out.

For Guyanese to be productive and lead meaningful lives they must live in peace and security. The crime situation is always cause for concern. The government has been expending more and more resources on the security forces to improve their crime-fighting capabilities and to maintain law and order in the country. I want to commend the members of the security forces for the work they have done in bringing the situation under control. However, we must not be complacent. I urge citizens to play their part in the continuing battle against crime.

Fellow Guyanese!
My administration has always been seeking new ways to improve the functioning and effectiveness of the government. In this regard, the government has facilitated the creation of institutionalised systems that allow enhanced scrutiny of the nation’s business so as to ensure more effective use of national resources, hold public officials accountable and eradicate corruption.

It is now public knowledge that prior to 1992, the Public Accounts of Guyana were not audited for about a decade. It is to the credit of successive PPP/C administrations that the public accounts are today up-to-date – the 2002 accounts have been audited and tabled in the National Assembly. The 2003 accounts will be ready this year. These reports by the Auditor General are scrutinised by the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament which is chaired by an MP from the opposition.

And to enhance this aspect of our work the National Assembly has recently passed the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act which established a modern and comprehensive framework for the administration of public finances and the reporting on public financial management. A major aspect of this legislation is the reaffirmation of the role of the National Assembly in the budget process. This was followed by the Audit Act which strengthens and gives greater autonomy to the Auditor General’s Office. To complement this programme of legislative reform, a number of associated administrative reforms have been undertaken. These include the introduction of the Integrated Financial Management and Accounting System which lends itself to more efficient and transparent management of public finances.

There are many other measures which the government has introduced to heighten transparency and accountability. We have an active Integrity
Commission: all top government officials, functionaries and parliamentarians, including the President and Ministers, must submit their financial statements to the Integrity Commission.

I am also pleased that the Ethnic Relations Commission has started its work to promote greater understanding, tolerance and harmony amongst our people.

Fellow Guyanese!
In the international arena Guyana’s remains committed to the principles of peace, friendship and cooperation. We remain, as always, committed to the regional integration process and to the early realization of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy. We are also working to deepen our relations with our South American neighbours. In addition we are ever appreciative and cherish the friendship and support of donor countries and international institutions in our national development efforts.

Fellow Guyanese,
The road yet to be travelled after 38 years of independence offers us an opportunity to shape a future that brings hope for a better Guyana and a better life for all Guyanese. It gives us a chance to rekindle in our people that which is the best. It provides us the possibility to make the best use of our creativity in service of the public good. It gives us a chance to shape a land of prosperity and harmony.

Let us reflect on these opportunities and keep reminding ourselves that the road travelled so far has not been easy. The road ahead will also present its own difficulties. But our commitment to place our country and the well being of our people above everything else will bring success.

Long live the people of Guyana! Happy Independence!

TOP

¬Guyana has hope of a bright future
- President Jagdeo joins large turnout at Flag Raising Ceremony

Georgetown, GINA, May 25, 2004

After more than three decades of becoming an independent nation, Guyana has hope of a bright future, as it has a proud record of achievements. This is one of the many messages conveyed by president Bharrat Jagdeo in his address to the nation to mark the occasion of the 38th anniversary of independence.
The President delivered his address shortly before 11:00 hrs to what was termed by many as one of the largest turn outs ever at the National Park to witness the traditional Flag Raising Ceremony. The Cultural ceremony began at about 19:30 hrs and was graced by numerous local performers, who displayed their talents in song, dance, skits and poetry and musical renditions. The annual event which saw a larger turnout than in 2003, was attended by President Jagdeo and First Lady Varshanie Uma Jagdeo, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and his wife Mrs. Yvonne Hinds, Ministers of the Government, other Government officials and the Diplomatic Community. The President and First Lady Varshnie Uma Jagdeo arrived shortly after 22:00 hrs and was welcomed by the Prime Minster, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Gail Tiexeira and Members of the Guyana Defence Force, after which the President took the Guard of Honour salute. Guyana gained independence from Great Britain on May 26, 1966
In his address, the Head of State noted that the country’s 38 years of existence under its own Constitution, has seen many positives and therefore it is a day for renewed resolve, when Guyanese can pledge their service to the land of our birth, and rededicate their energies to the prosperity of the country
“The road yet to be travelled after 38 years of independence offers us an opportunity to shape a future that brings hope for a better Guyana and a better life for all Guyanese. It gives us a chance to rekindle in our people that which is the best. It provides us an occasion to make the best use of our creativity in service of the public good. It gives us a chance to shape a land of prosperity and harmony.
“Let us reflect on these opportunities and keep reminding ourselves that the road travelled so far has not been easy. The road ahead will also present its own difficulties. But our commitment to place our country and the well being of our people above everything else will bring success,” he said.
The Head of State noted that the attainment of independence on May 26, 1966, remains and will always be, an outstanding landmark in the long history of struggles of Guyanese for freedom. And it is for this reason that Independence is being remembered as “a defining moment: finally the inhumane and exploitative system of colonialism came to a crashing end. Thus began the life of a new nation called Guyana and renewed faith in ourselves to be masters of our own destiny,” the President said.
He noted that these struggles are what will shape the future that Guyana can so eagerly look forward to. He noted that Guyana today is vastly different from the one that obtained just after independence, and is one which provides for Guyanese a better life.
“Our people enjoy healthier and longer lives. More of our children grow up to be strong and productive adults. More Guyanese live in their own homes. Educational opportunities, from primary to university for all, have increased. More of our people have access to basic amenities. In short, since Independence, Guyanese, with their own hands and ingenuity, have improved their lot and enjoy a higher standard of living. Equally important is that as Guyanese we have broadened and deepened our rights and freedoms. Today we have one of the most advanced constitutions in the Region that has constructed a modern framework for our citizens to live in equality and security,” he emphasised.
It is for these reasons that the President said every Guyanese must be optimistic, because they are united and free and able to overcome difficulties.
“If we continue to embrace this legacy and live and work in harmony we will achieve that brighter future,” President Jagdeo asserted.
In this future, President Jagdeo said, every citizen must participate, as it allows for more active participation and inclusiveness of all sections of society.
“It is this environment that has contributed to the start of a national dialogue that involved the major political forces,” he said.
The President acknowledged that inevitably, under this type of democracy, there will be differences between and among political parties, but these must be resolved without resort to threats of violence or holding hostage the proper functioning of national institutions.
“In a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural society like ours, politicians and all others must eschew postures that can sow the seeds of discord and division. The unity of our people must come first,” he said.
The President urged that the political dialogue continue, as it is necessary and cannot “be switched on and off at the behest of political expediency.”
President Jagdeo also recalled the work his Administration has been doing since 1992 to enhance our economic fortunes under severe constraints.
He noted that the present world situation is also cause for concern, as its contributory factors affect Guyana.
“Despite these factors, my Administration remains resolutely focused on our national development agenda – one based on prudent economic management, support for the private sector, inclusive governance and the provision of better infrastructure, social services and security for all our citizens,” he said.
Looking to the future, the President said traditional industries are being overhauled and modernised to make them more efficient and competitive, including gold, rice and forestry, sugar, bauxite, and the wider agriculture sector.
“The restructuring of our traditional sectors is being accompanied by a strategy to diversify into other areas of economic activities for export including tourism, agro-processing and other light manufacturing, information technology and related services,” the President said.
Fostering Private Sector growth is also a key element on Government’s agenda as it takes Guyana into the future, the President said.
The President also noted that Government will continue its vast investment in the social sector, and pointed out that three major projects are about to begin, which will transform Guyana’s image- the International Conference Centre in Liliendaal, the Cricket Stadium at Providence and the Berbice Rive Bridge.
“These significant public investments, apart from improving services, create thousands of jobs to complement those created by private investment,” the President said.
However, President Jagdeo noted that despite Government’s significant investment, citizens still complain about irritants in several parts of the country and “it is time that we improve our management of resources and make better use of the facilities we are putting in place.” In his 15-minute address, the President also noted that the crime situation is always of concern to Government, which has been expending more resources on the security forces to improve their crime-fighting capabilities and to maintain law and order in the country.
At exactly 12:00hrs. the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted at the National Park preceded by the ceremonial gun shots and followed by the live broadcast of the simultaneous rising of the Golden Arrowhead on Mount Ayangana by the GDF, and the fireworks display at the Park. These were all witnessed by the President, Prime Minister and their wives, Joint Services members and Secretary to the Defence Board Dr. Roger Luncheon among others. At midnight too, the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted at various points in the other nine Administrative Regions by other Government Ministers.

TOP

Capacity crowd, fireworks make celebrations best in years
- celebrating 38 years of Independence

Georgetown, GINA, May 26, 2004

In a brilliant showing of local talent and creativity, the 38th Independence Anniversary Celebrations held at the National Park last evening saw one of the largest crowds ever.
To a capacity crowd, and after a rich cultural programme, the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted as Guyanese reflected on the first Independence celebrations on May 26, 1966.
On that day in our history the Union Jack was lowered and the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted for the first time.
This was a significant achievement for Guyanese who after much struggle, through freedom marches, picket lines and demonstrations were able to secure the right and freedom to manage its own affairs.
The initiator of Guyana’s freedom was Dr. Cheddi Jagan, late leader of the People’s Progressive Party and President of Guyana.
Last evening’s event was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. The Ministry brought together a number of groups for a wonderful performance at the National Park.
These included the Dax New Generation Band, the Guyana Police Force, the Seventh Day Adventist Group, Seema Budram, Malcolm Corrica, Michelle King and Miriam Williams.
“Don’t Dis My ability” by Camille Goliath-Basdeo, better known as Lady Tempest, was a crowd pleaser as usual, and so was “We can’t stop the hate” by Miriam Williams.
As Miriam belted out her tune, and one looked around the stands where every ethnic group was represented, it seemed we are more than halfway to the goal of stopping any form of violence and hate in this country.
But the icing on the cake was the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport presentation “Celebrating our Diversity.” In this performance, approximately 350 children presented a demonstration in dance of the six peoples of Guyana.
The Tarana Dance Troupe, the School of the Nations, the Hinterland School Association, the President’s Youth Award: Republic of Guyana, and the National School of Dance all participated in this activity.
This was also accompanied by songs including “Captain, Captain put me ashore” and other folk songs. There was also a beautiful display of African and Indian drumming.
Vivian Daniels, Choreographer of the National School of Dance and Winston Benn of the Ministry were among the persons coordinating the activities for the pre-Independence celebrations.
The well-behaved capacity crowd was quick to show their appreciation of every item on the programme.
Phyllis Jackson, Hector Stoute and Nazim Hussain carried the audience through the paces for the evening.
As the time drew near for the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead and President Bharrat Jagdeo and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Gail Teixeira left the VIP box, everyone was prepared for the most significant moment of the evening.
In a very dramatic and sombre manner, the flag was hoisted to the solemn beat of the drum. The gun salute was then given, immediately followed by a live broadcast of the Golden Arrowhead being raised on Mount Ayangana in Essequibo.
Then the national song “Guyana the Free” was sung led by the Guyana Police Force Band and the Joint Services Choir. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem.
The highlight of the celebrations was after the National Anthem was sung when the fireworks display began.
Sponsored by Clico Life and General Insurance Company, the fireworks display proved to be the icing on the cake for the Independence celebrations. To the oohs, aahs and cheers of the crowd, the fireworks lit the sky accompanied by thunderous applause.
Everyone, including Ministers of Government, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Guyanese and non-Guyanese were enthralled by the splendid pyrotechnics.
It was a splendid evening, which provided Guyanese with an opportunity to recommit to the cause of nationhood.