Meeting security needs in face of challenges in 2011
Georgetown, GINA, December 28, 2011
National safety and security are seen as two fundamental pillars on which a country’s development stands. The Government of Guyana recognises this and has continued to provide the Home Affairs Ministry, which holds responsibility for the joint services with the necessary resources to ensure that citizens’ fundamental rights to protection by the State are met.
The year 2011 saw the Ministry consolidating its efforts at developing a more modernised and efficient security sector with an increased budgetary allocation of $15.9B, compared to $14.9B in 2010.
This increase led to greater focus being placed on the use of information and communications technology, intelligence gathering, operational capacity strengthening, training, improved investigative capability, strengthened community policing and intensified collaboration with our regional and international law enforcement agencies.
As Guyana’s security needs continue to evolve and new challenges arise, Government remains committed in implementing new policies, programmes, and legislation and strengthening previous efforts in an effort to combat and rise above these challenges.
CBSI
In 2011, Guyana hosted the Second Meeting of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) Commission, a forum which engaged participants from the Caribbean, United States of America (USA), and the Dominican Republic.
During this meeting, Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee called for the implementation of programmes and strategies to address the growing problem of gangs, so as to divert the youth population away from deviant activities.
Guyana also joined several countries from the Caribbean and Latin America in promoting firearms marking practices and in strengthening efforts to combat the trafficking of illegal firearms in the hemisphere with the acquisition of a marking machine from the Organisation of the American States (OAS).
The process of firearms marking will see the weapons being permanently marked with identifiable information, such as serial number, name, place, manufacturer/importer, model, and caliber and is an essential step for helping law enforcement agencies to trace recovered firearms used in crimes, as well as identify trafficking routes and traffickers.
The Firearm marking device
Guyana is committed to fighting crime in all its manifestations and in this regard several anti-crime laws were passed in the just concluded ninth parliament, equipping the police and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and other law enforcement agencies with modern technology and ICT equipment.
Guyana Police Force
Government continued to invest in the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the country’s principal law enforcement agency with a budgetary allocation of $5.7B in 2011.
More than 1,000 ranks were awarded with trophies, plaques, monetary purses and certificates for their outstanding performance, particularly in ‘E’ and ‘F’ Division in intercepting criminal activities and which led to an overall decrease in crime and criminal activities.
The Force has also recorded great improvements in its relationship with the public, which has led to a strengthened intelligence gathering unit, which causes the country to reap the benefits of having violent gangs being broken up, with continuous strides made on the war on narco-terrorism.
The statistics of murders during the year are not significantly related to known criminal activity but rather to disorderly behaviour. Further, fewer guns are being used in robbery under arms and instead 36, percent of this category of crime is being committed with knives, cutlasses and other offensive weapons.
The Force also received the keys to vehicles worth approximatly $39M to enable it to effectively execute its mandate by improving on the response time.
Vehicles that were handed over to the Home Affairs Ministry.
Illegal Drugs
The Force Narcotic Branch recorded a seizure of 25.76 kilograms of cocaine, 1.8 kilograms of crack cocaine, 287.2 kilograms of crystal cocaine, 4480.1 kilograms of cannabis, and eradicated 121.5 acres of cannabis cultivation.
Additionally, 176 persons were charged with cannabis related offences, while 91 were charged with cocaine related offences.
The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) consolidated its operations and was able to provide considerable support to the country’s overall efforts in combating the drug trade.
Operations at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Ogle International Airport, the Guyana Post Office Corporation, and at other major entry and exit ports were also strengthened.
Guyana Fire Service
The Guyana Fire Service is perhaps given the least prominence compared to other agencies in the joint services; however, it is undoubtedly one of the most vital institutions in ensuring public safety and security.
Government recognises this and has been constantly allocating resources to ensure that the service is adequately mobilised to effectively fulfill its mandate of protecting lives and safeguarding property. This year, the service celebrated 53 years of existence.
The Service received $49M for the implementation of the Hinterland Fire Protection Plan, and $31M for the upgrade of existing firefighting equipment as well as the procurement of a firefighting unit for the Mahaica Fire Station.
Some of the equipment that were handed over to the Guyana Fire Service
A sum of $662.2M was spent to procure vehicles of which $80.5 M was dedicated towards the expansion of the hinterland fire protection drive with the purchase of all terrain water tenders and trailer pumps for Port Kaituma, Mahdia, Mabaruma, Kwakwani and Lethem.
The Service now has 15 stations, the most recent being the one at Mahaica; while, Diamond is expected to be completed next year.
Guyana Prison Service
Government has taken a policy position with regards to training of ranks within the disciplined services that is catered for in the national budget each year. Earlier in the year, the Guyana Prison Service welcomed 21 new recruits, who successfully completed the Basic Recruit Training Course.
The recruits who were drawn from the five prison locations in Guyana, were exposed to a well rounded eight-week programme which included basic prison lectures, impromptu speech delivery, armed and unarmed combats, human rights education, family life training, and basic English at the Prison Training Center at Lusignan.
The GPS plays an integral role within the country’s criminal justice system, whereby subsequent to the ruling of the courts, offenders are kept under the custodial responsibilities of the prison and at the same time, are given the proper orientation with respect to rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
In September, a civilian component was added to the Guyana Prison Service Recruitment Board, which was entrusted with the responsibility of reviewing applications and support document submitted to the board by the recruitment team and to ensure that job specifications for the positions for enlistment are met.
Some of the significant developments the Prison Service has seen are; the establishment of the Sentence Management Board, the establishment of the Guyana Prison Service Agriculture Development Board, the appointment of the Recruitment Board which includes civilian members, the development of a new Strategic Plan 2011-2015, the establishment a training facility for Prison Officers and improvements to the accommodation and general facilities for officers and inmates.
Community Policing
This year, the community policing system, which forms a prominent part of Government’s overall crime-fighting strategy celebrated 35 years of existence.
Government embarked on an outreach programme across the country to aid in the implementation of such groups and address issues of non-cooperation of members of the Police Force with the CPG, issues that members of the community have with CPG members and challenges CPG members face.
To this end, Minister Rohee hosted an outreach programme in various communities along the East Coast of Demerara, which has seen issues such as noise nuisance, cattle roaming, and non-cooperation of members from the Police Force to CPG members being highlighted.
To date, there are well over 200 CPGs across the country and a membership of over 400. Moreover, Government continues to provide these groups with the necessary wherewithal such as vehicles, ATVs, boats and communication devices, so that they can perform their functions effectively.
Citizen Security Programme
Significant progress has been made with regards to the Citizen Security Programme (CSP), one of the major initiatives undertaken by the Ministry.
Through this programme, contracts totalling $134.5M for the remodelling of the Ministry’s building and rehabilitation of six police stations in C and A Divisions were finalized.
An artistic impression of the remodelled Home Affairs Ministry
The aim behind this massive infrastructural development is to make these stations more user friendly and to install certain facilities in order to build greater confidence and public assurance in carrying out operations such as identification parades and cater to victims of domestic violence among others.
The contracts include: $141M for the remodelling of the Ministry, $19.2M for the rehabilitation of the Mahaica Police Station, $19.1 for Cove and John, $17.9M for Beterverwagting, $24.9M for Sparendaam, $22.9M for Providence, and $30.3M for the Timehri Police Stations.
Forensic Lab
The much-talked about state-of-the-art forensic laboratory located within the precincts of the University of Guyana, is yet another project that falls under the modernisation of the Guyana Police Force aspect of the CSP that was initiated between Government and the IDB.
In April, a $450M contract was signed for the construction of this facility that will bring Guyana’s forensic capability on par with those in the developed world. The lab will allow for a high level of confidentiality, credibility and integrity between law enforcement agencies and the public.
An artistic impression of the Forensic Laboratory
The GPF inherited some elements of a forensic laboratory in 1987 that has enabled the Force to carry out a lot of forensic work; however, that facility does not have the capacity to adequately meet the needs of the country, which is why the Force had to rely heavily on sending samples overseas to be tested.
Construction of this forensic lab which has already commenced, will contribute to the capacity of the nation to generate findings.
Community Action Component
Enhancing the lives and employment possibilities of today’s youth continues to be high on Government’s agenda, which is being fulfilled to a large extent, through the Community Action Component (CAC) of the CSP.
This programme, which targets youths mainly school drop-outs between the ages of 14-25, focuses on building capacity while at the same time forging greater community cohesion with the underlying aim of creating safer neighbourhoods.
Since its re-launch in February 2010, this programme has seen hundreds of youths benefiting from skills and vocational training that has already been implemented in communities such as: Sophia, Annandale/Lusignan, Port Mourant, Rosehall, Kilcoy/Chesney/Fyrish, Overwinning/Edinburgh, Agricola/McDoom, and Buxton/Friendship.
Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee presenting an electrical installation certificate to Quincy Cush from the Sophia CAC batch.
Youths are trained in life skills such as cosmetology, child care, auto repair, welding and fabrication, food and nutrition, electrical installation, information technology and accounting. It targeted approximately 1400 youths this year.
Road Safety
As part of the Government’s efforts at ensuring safer roadways, The Home Affairs Ministry through the National Road Safety Council, (NRSC) embarked on a campaign to establish Safety Steering Committees at all the police division across the country.
These committees are in charge of developing Road Safety Councils which will be tasked with identifying issues affecting drivers, which will in turn; inform policy making so as to increase road safety.
In August, the Home Affairs Ministry in collaboration with the GNRSC and the Alicia Foundation/Mothers in Black launched the Road Safety Volunteer Programme which saw the participation of over 300 Guyanese, mostly youths.
Road accidents account for the leading cause of death of persons under the age of 18 years.
In May, Guyana joined other countries in observing the Global Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011 – 2020, a United Nations endorsed global initiative that highlights the growing impact of traffic injuries and deaths and the need to strengthen prevention and control measures.
Government, through the Ministry has spared no effort in devising initiatives in a relentless bid to raise awareness of the importance of proper road use. Several comprehensive pieces of legislation were also passed in the National Assembly, including an amendment to the Stray Catchers Act and most recently an amendment to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act to provide for the appointment of traffic wardens.
The PPP/C Administration is fully committed to the provision of security to its citizens and while some might be of a different view, the statistics show decreases in crime and violence. The exemplary work being executed by the force, in maintaining law and order has led to an overall decrease in crime and criminal activities.
TOP
GPF assigns new postings of senior officers
-with effect from January 1
Georgetown, GINA, December 31, 2011
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has released the list of new postings for its senior officers, with effect from January 1, 2012. The new positions, which were done at the command level, are as follows:
- Assistant Commissioner Deryck Josiah has been posted to “B” Division as Divisional Commander.
- Assistant Commissioner David Ramnarine, who is at present serving in E&F Division, has been posted to “C” Division as Divisional Commander.
- Senior Superintendent Christopher Griffith has been posted to “D” Division as Divisional Commander. He is at present second-in-command of “B” Division.
- Senior Superintendent Clifton Hicken has been posted to “E&F” Division as Divisional Commander. He is at present the Officer-in-Charge of the Tactical Services Unit (TSU).
- Senior Superintendent Linden Alves has been posted to the TSU as the Officer-in-Charge.
- Senior Superintendent Dale Alves has been posted as second-in-command of “A” Division.
- Senior Superintendent Eric Bassant has been posted to “B” Division as second-in-command. He is at present second-in-command of “C” Division.
- Senior Superintendent Owen Trotz has been posted to “C” Division as second-in-command. He is at present second-in-command of “E&F” Division.
- And Superintendent Lawrence Kissoon has been posted to “E&F” Division as the second-in-command.
TOP
OLPF – educating and empowering thousands of Guyanese
A GINA Feature – December 31, 2011
The world over is now dependent on people having knowledge and skills making them capable of handling the constant advancements in technology. Having such skills make individuals more marketable in the world of work, and on a more personal note enhances people’s wellbeing.
The Government of Guyana has acknowledged the need for all citizens to become computer literate so as to keep up with technological advancements. This awareness has resulted in the provision of computers in primary and secondary schools thereby giving youths an opportunity to access training.
So as not to leave out anyone, irrespective of age, gender or ethnicity, a special programme was developed by former President, Bharat Jagdeo - the One Laptop Per Family programme (OLPF) which has as its priority single parents, the differently-abled and low income families in the first phase.
Once the programme is implemented as expected it will lead to a major transformation in the lives of 90,000 Guyanese.
OLPF- the beginning
This bold initiative is projected to equip the entire population with computer literacy skills over a five year period. It is being executed at a cost of $1.8B and will see the initial distribution of 90,000 laptops, free of cost, to families across the country, beginning with mostly poor families.
Information Communication Technology (ICT) is viewed as a knowledge based sector which has high value in today’s world given the volume of wealth it holds for the future, and it is one of the new sectors expected to generate greater disposable income for Guyanese and lead to the creation of thousands of jobs.
It is the government’s hope that the laptop will be used for its intended purpose since it is an economic tool and educational instrument.
 Haier Laptop
Guyana’s response
Following the programme’s official launch in January this year and the establishment of the OLPF headquarters at 161 Lamaha Street Georgetown, the programme subsequently entered the public interface mode where application forms were distributed to the general public in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10. As a result, over 44,000 applications were received for phase one.
Following the public interface component, the verification component was activated to ensure applicants satisfied the criteria of earning a monthly income less than $50,000 and being a single parent.
Trainers
The first leg of orientation sessions for persons who applied to be trainers in the OLPF project commenced with persons from Region Three, and followed with the other Regions. The sessions imbued in the trainers the knowledge they require about the project and the modules to be delivered. Training is in progress across the country.
Student-based component
In July the programme evolved into a critical phase whereby students who were part of the school based pilot project were given the go ahead to take the laptops from their respective training hubs into their homes.
Adriana Wellington accompanied by her mother receives her laptop from Region 2 Vice-Chairman, Vishnu Samaroo at the Abram Zuil Secondary School
The Abrams Zuil Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast, Volunteer Youth Corps in Durban Backlands, St. Francis community developers in Berbice and hinterland students of the Amerindian hostel were targeted.
Arrival of laptops
The arrival of the first shipment of 5000 Haier Netbooks, valued at more than US$1.4M from China in October is a clear reflection of government delivering its promise to Guyanese.
First shipment of Haier laptops arrives by aircraft
Government procured 27,000 laptops from Haier of China which was awarded the tender for the supply of 31,000 laptops valued US$8.5M. Over a two-year period the targeted 90,000 laptops will be distributed as the government strives to ensure every Guyanese becomes computer literate.
First distribution
Beneficiaries with their laptops at the initial distribution at the National Cultural Centre
Upon arrival of the first set of laptops 1000 Guyanese were among the first to receive their laptops at the National Cultural Centre from then President Bharrat Jagdeo. Since then distribution has been ongoing across the country and several Ministers have been involved in the process. Thus far recipients in Regions 3, 4, 6 and 10 have begun receiving their devices.
 Former President Bharrat Jagdeo with students after they had received their laptops from him
Hubs
With their laptops in their possession the recipients subsequently commenced their training at the community learning centres which were set up at various locations in eight of the ten administrative regions.
Through the hubs there will be the continued distribution of laptops to recipients, and training delivered in the effective and efficient use of the device by a trainer.
The centres commonly referred to as ICT hubs, are equipped with electricity and internet connectivity and will see recipients being trained for a minimum of 10 hours to proficiently use their equipment while having access to the internet.
Some of the learning centres include: Charity Secondary School, Aurora Secondary School, Region 2; Patentia Community Centre, Bagotville National Library, Region 3; the Volunteer Youth Corp, Durban Backlands; Lusignan/Good Hope Learning Centre, Region 4; Bath Skills Training Centre, Region 5; #68 village- Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre, #58 Village- Swing Star Community Developers, Region 6; St. John’s the Baptist Primary School Region 7 and SOM Skills Training, Young and Thoughtful Youth Club, Region 10.
Additionally, in 2012 two hundred youth clubs will be established across the country. Youth leaders have already been recruited, and will be tasked with designing exciting ICT related activities that will see the youths gainfully using their new skills while enhancing same.
Future
It is expected that in the coming five years Guyana’s landscape will change drastically particularly since most of the population will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive the country’s knowledge based economy. The realization of this vision will inevitably take Guyana into a new paradigm of prosperity.
Through the ever evolving ICT sector, which is being esteemed as the corner-stone of, Guyana’s revolutionary transformation, there will be a catalyzing of the private sector investment, rapid growth in business sector and the number of persons employed will double.
Importantly, Guyanese residing in remote communities will be enabled to access the essential services through the internet.
Kuru Kuru residents with their laptops
The ICT sector has been acknowledged as a transformational one and to realize this potential government has pursued numerous efforts to develop the infrastructure to welcome it. This is evident in its investment in a fibre optic cable from Brazil for cheaper and more reliable bandwidth to internet access, provision of computers at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels and ICT training for teachers. Guyanese from the diaspora have also contributed to this technological thrust by providing of computers and learning software to several schools around the country.
TOP
IMC formation helps cricket development in Guyana-Minister Anthony
Georgetown, GINA, December 31, 2011
Minister Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony at a recent press briefing to point out the rationale for the formation of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) said it was done to help the process of cricket development in Guyana.
Minister Anthony was joined by Permanent Secretary Alfred King and elected Chairman of the IMC, Clive Lloyd at the briefing held in the ministry boardroom at Main Street
Minister Anthony said that the formation of the committee also seeks to address the many management and transparency problems that have been plaguing and distracting Guyanese cricket. Minister Anthony expressing his disgusted at the state of local cricket said, “we have got a problem with cricket in our country…we have a problem with the administration of cricket in Guyana,” referring to the dispute between the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB).
“Apparently the administration of cricket in Guyana is spending more time in court than on the playing field,” he further noted.
“It’s unfair to the Guyanese population, to the players out there, when you have people fighting each other in court and not doing enough for the game,” he said and added, “we are trying to fix these things so we can have more people going back to the game and playing the game.”
Anthony said that periodically the ministry would have met with the various boards to try to resolve some of the many issues plaguing cricket in Guyana. He said that the ministry has not however been successful in getting the boards to cooperate.
“We have allowed enough space for the boards to self heal; apparently that is not possible,” Anthony said.
The Sport Minister said that one of the main issues on the committee agenda is resolving the issue of which one of the constitutions of the GCB is really the correct one. He said also said that there are allegations of financial impropriety within the level of the various boards, and added that the ministry cannot take such allegations lightly and with the committee in place, a forensic audit to determine the validity of the accusation will be conducted.
He also said that the IMC will also be tasked with assisting the ministry with creating a comprehensive cricket development programme that can be put in place from the various levels of the schools.
Lloyd told the media that the IMC formation is not to take over the administration of cricket in Guyana. He said that cricket has been struggling for a while and all the Government through the ministry is trying to accomplish with the committee’s formation is to rectify the situation and attempt to bring Guyana’s cricket back to the position that it was accustomed to years ago.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony with Permanent Secretary Alfred King and Chairman, newly formed IMC, Clive Lloyd
On December 23, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport released a press release that announced the formation of the IMC. It stated that it was formed following the Honorable Chief Justice Ian Chang’s ruling on August 22, 2011, which basically states that, given the present state of affairs, there may be the immediate need for the Minister responsible for sports to impose his executive will in the national interest of the sport until such time as Parliament can provide a more permanent welfare structure. The decision was also arrived at after several discussions over the last few months with the various representatives of the previously recognized cricket boards.
The committee which is to comprise 15 members, eight from the previously recognized boards and seven appointed by the minister will be in place for a limited period of six months. During this period the committee is expected to report on a monthly basis to the Minister Anthony and upon completion of its work the committee will report on its major findings, make recommendations for the way forward and invite an authority with competence in electoral matters to hold elections for office bearers at both the Regional and National levels.
TOP
More value for money, root-out corruption in 2012 – President
in New Year’s message
Georgetown, GINA, December 31, 2011
President Donald Ramotar pledged that in the New Year his government will work resolutely on a developmental agenda that guarantees value for money in the delivery of public goods and services and to bring an end to corruption.
In his New Year’s message to the nation the Head of State promised quality in the social services, improvement in the physical infrastructure, a greater and higher standards of living for every Guyanese.
“We have always believed that economic growth must be accompanied by social development which ensures that all of our people, without exception, benefit from the progressive improvements in the economy in the form of a better standard of living,” President Ramotar said.
In a society that is multi-ethnic President Ramotar said there should be more opportunities for Guyanese to realise their fullest potential in a safe and cohesive society, based on tolerance, understanding, solidarity and the rule of law.
The New Year, the Head of State believes, will be a defining moment in the country’s history that can be realized if pitfalls are avoided and the opportunities to sustain the progress made over the years are grasped.
President Donald Ramotar as he made his New Year's address to the nation
But with countries in Europe still grappling with volatility from the economic crisis and natural disasters lurking from climate change, President Ramotar said Guyana is still at risk of facing the impacts.
The activities of mankind are still to be blamed for the environmental challenges faced and President Ramotar pointed a finger to the continued emission of green house gases into the atmosphere which if not curtailed or halted “can have a catastrophic effect on our world and our very way of life.”
“The international community has recognized that we have to embrace new approaches and models of development. No longer can we adopt traditional approaches which have led to economic growth but have inflicted great harm to the environment,” President Ramotar said.
Through the Low Carbon Development Strategy Guyana has gained international acclaim and has influenced heightened national awareness and support for our climate change initiatives. The second largest forest carbon partnership with the Government of Norway is one such example.
President vowed that in 2012 work will continue to towards maintaining the momentum of progress made in the implementation of the strategy which enables Guyana to continue preserving its valued natural asset without sacrificing social and economic development.
“In this effort we will continue to embrace a national approach so that all Guyanese can be aware, be involved and also be beneficiaries of the opportunities our climate initiatives and the LCDS will bring,” President Ramotar said.
Guyana earned US$70M through the forest carbon partnership agreement. The money is secured in the Guyana Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Investment Fund (GRIF) that was established in October 2010.
TOP
Guyana primed for second wave of take-off– President Ramotar
-in New Year’s address
Georgetown, GINA, December 31, 2011
President Donald Ramotar reflected in part on the accomplishments made by the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) during the year and noted that Guyana is now on a solid platform and is primed for a second wave of reforms.
Delivering his New Year’s address to the nation, the Head of State pointed to the growth rate which the economy achieved for the sixth consecutive year despite the well known challenges in the international climate.
“Our main trading partners in Europe and North America are experiencing serious financial and economic problems. The difficulties have impacted heavily on our region with many countries facing serious economic problems. In spite of this adverse international environment, Guyana has done well,” President Ramotar said.
This achievement was credited by the President to a resilient economy which he said has been progressively fortified over the past two decades by the prudent economic policies pursued by successive PPP/C administrations.
The Guyanese economy was hailed in an International Monetary Fund (IMF) country report for demonstrating resilience and recording a fifth consecutive year of robust growth for 2010 even in the face of external and domestic shocks.
Additionally, the 2011 mid-year report was presented to the National Assembly showing a 5.9 percent growth rate in the economy that was described as an ‘enviable’ figure anywhere in the world.
The Government credited such achievements to low fiscal deficit and debt, strong external reserves, stability in the exchange rate and low interest rates and containment of inflation to single digits.
“All Guyana should be proud of the health of our economy and the impressive strides our country has made. The sustained economic growth has ensured continued improvements in the social services in our country,” President Ramotar said.
He turned this attention to the social sectors noting that more of the country’s children are enjoying better access to improving educational facilities and are acquiring life skills while quality health care and specialized treatment are expanding and more Guyanese today have access to potable water than ever before.
“Our young people continue to benefit from opportunities to prepare them for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities; our workers’ are benefitting from improved remuneration; and the elderly and vulnerable Guyanese are receiving enhanced support and attention. Notably too, the agriculture, mining, construction and services sectors as well as other emerging sectors are all expanding,” President Ramotar said.
The year was one in which Guyanese went to the polls at the general and regional elections. President Ramotar described the process as a renewal of democracy and another step in the consolidation and entrenchment of democratic norms in our national life.
The PPP/C captured 48.6 percent of the votes and secured 32 seats in the National Assembly while the opposition parties combined won the majority 33 seats.
“It has created a new political situation in the country. We can see this as an opportunity to work together to take this country forward in achieving national unity, security and social and economic prosperity,” President Ramotar said.
Since taking office the President has been in consultation with the opposition in keeping with his promise but believes that its success will depend on genuine cooperation on important issues instead of striking deals or to gang up against one partner.
Guyana’s social, economic infrastructure transformed in 2011
GINA feature - January 01, 2012
The United Nations (UN) designated 2011 the International Year for People of African Descent (IYPAD) and the Guyana Government acceded to the global call for countries to initiate a series of activities to mark the auspicious occasion when it launched a robust programme of cultural activities.
History was recorded in Guyana when Donald Ramotar became Guyana’s seventh executive President following elections that brought a new dispensation to the legislature.
The country, amidst challenges recorded 5.9 % growth according to the half- year report and transformation in the education, health, housing and water sectors was evident.
The housing target was surpassed and Guyana advanced its method of packaging sugar, with the commissioning of the Enmore packaging plant.
The government’s One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) programme entered the distribution phase and some of the largest investments in the history Guyana’s mining sector were initiated.
A record national budget of $161.4B was also passed.
Elections and the campaign trail
Mr. Donald Ramotar made history winning the presidency in the 2011 General and Regional elections, becoming the first executive President under a under a new government where the Head of State serves for a minimum of two terms.
His Excellency Donald Ramotar affixes his signature to the document after taking the oath office of President
The results of the elections were unveiled by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) two- and- a- half days after Guyanese went to the polls on November 28. October 27 was nomination day when the parties presented their lists of candidates.
The ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) captured 48.6 % of the votes and secured 32 seats in the National Assembly but with 26 seats going to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and seven to the Alliance For Change (AFC) the opposition now hold the legislative majority.
The process was however not all smooth sailing. Anxiety and impatience over the announcing of the results caused rumours to be spewed via text messages and the social network facebook, almost creating panic and fear and prompting political party leaders to join hands in the call for calm and public restraint.
APNU challenged the results calling for verification of the Statement of Polls (SOP) and took to the streets in protest for their voices to be heard. It was touted one of the highly contested elections in history that saw the ruling PPP/C coming up against APNU, the new coalition party, and the AFC.
In October politicians ventured off on the campaign trail, with rallies and public meetings across the country making big promises and criticizing their opponents with words that many said, lacked decorum.
Getting down to business
Forty-eight hours after ascending to high office the new President swore in his 20- member cabinet with a few new faces Minister of Labour Dr. Nanda Gopaul, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, Minister of Local Government Ganga Persaud, Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture of Agriculture Ali Baksh and, Minister within the Ministry of Finance Juan Edghill.
Former Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud was appointed to head the newly formed Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment.
President Donald Ramotar and newly sworn in Cabinet Members
The new president also delivered on his open door policy, meeting the opposition parties for dialogue. At one of the meetings consensus was reached for deferral of the parliament in December and for consultation between Finance Minister and counterparts in the opposition parties for the crafting of the 2012 national budget.
Economic performance
The country for the past seven years recorded an elevated growth trajectory with exports increasing by 30 percent, double digit growth in the mining sector; the largest rice crop history and the highest sugar production since 2004.
Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh presented the country’s largest national budget of $161.4B, surpassing that of the previous year.
The mid-year report for 2011was presented to the National Assembly showing a 5.9 percent growth rate in the economy that was described as an ‘enviable’ figure anywhere in the world.
The Government credited such achievements to low fiscal deficit and debt, strong external reserves, stability in the exchange rate and low interest rates and containment of inflation to single digits.
Homeownership
In the last 12 years over 75,000 house lots were distributed and the Central Housing and Planning Authority over the past three years embarked on the second low income settlement programme with the commercial and banking sector fully on board.
The first allotment of land for the new Eccles housing scheme was executed in June and aspiring home owners rushed for the lifetime opportunity when the Ministry of Housing and Water staged a one stop shop exercise at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.
The housing ministry also surpassed its 6,500 house lot target for the year and aspiring homeowners were encouraged to build without hesitation.
Work continued on the East Bank of Demerara’s urban network plan with government investing in 15,000 house lots and private developers mulling concessions for fast food outlets malls and call centres, among other business ventures.
Diamond, the fastest growing community on the East Bank of Demerara already boasts a Secondary School, East Demerara Regional Hospital, a Guy Oil Service Station, and three commercial banks.
Access to Water
The water sector was investment of $15B for the construction of treatment facilities in various parts of the country which has resulted in 80,000 people gaining access to safe water.
In July, a US$12.3M agreement was sealed between Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the for modernization and expansion of potable water supply in Linden.
Road infrastructure transformation
Work continued on infrastructural development, namely roads and bridges with routine management and extension of sections of the East Bank of Demerara four lane road from Providence to Diamond. Budgeted at US$17.5, the project also catered for widening bridges and culverts.
In March, the feasibility study and design for a four lane road from New Amsterdam to Moleson Creek was complete after commencing in July 2010 while US$1.45M was spent on the construction of the rehabilitation of the Black Bush Polder, Region Six road.
 Black Bush Polder Road
The latter works include rehabilitation of the entire 34.5 kilometer (Km) stretch of roadway with an asphaltic concrete surface, rehabilitation of two timber bridges and construction of five concrete bridges.
Under the road improvement rehabilitation programme works were completed on the East and West Canje, road at a cost of $100M. Scope of works included rehabilitation of 11 Kmr roadway, construction of 7 kilometers of roadway, 30 culverts and eight bridges.
The programme also caters for scheduled rehabilitation of access road to Timehri and Sheriff Street to Mandela Avenue.
Some $29M was spent from the capital budget for the rehabilitation and construction of roads in Regions Four and Ten and over $2B for the rehabilitation and construction of roads in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six.
Rehabilitation and construction of the 13-mile stretch of fair weather road to St Cuthbert’s Mission as completed in April 2011 after works commenced in December the previous year at a cost of $23.9M.
Additionally contracts with an aggregate valued at 800M were signed for hinterland roads in Linden, Kwakwani, Lethem and Aishalton among others.
Sports infrastructure
Government’s agenda of building modern sports facilities was witnessed during the year when the National Aquatic Centre was commissioned at Liliendaal building optimism about Guyanese swimmers competing at the international level. The facility joins the list of modern sports infrastructure government has been investing in, given the room now available to focus on existential issues.
A section of the National Aquatic Centre and the 50 metre swimming pool
The commissioning of new squash court and refurbished lawn tennis courts joined the list of modern facilities.
The cricket fraternity had its challenges during the year causing Government to intervene following a recommendation by the acting Chief Justice.
Officials of the Guyana Cricket Board in the three counties were summoned to meetings with former President Bharrat Jagdeo prior to the establishment of an Interim Management Committee (IMC) headed by former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd.
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo with Guyana's Golden Jaguars after thir victorious win over Trinidad and Tobago's Soca Warriors
The menu of measures include the drafting of a new constitution, development and implementation of a cricket development program at the national and regional levels, reconciliation of the fractions of the Demerara Board into one Demerara Board, an appraisal on the status of all financial transactions by an independent auditor and other issues that the IMC may deem pertinent to the development of cricket.
Guyana’s ‘Golden Jaguars’ advanced to the third round of the FIFA 2014 World Cup qualifiers beating the highly touted Trinidad and Tobago’s ‘Soca Warriors’ 2-1 on the evening of November 13.
Major investment in health
With plans already moving ahead to construct the first ever specialist hospital at Liliendaal, the high cost incurred on Guyanese to travel overseas for complicated medical attention will be a thing of the past. The Indian Government indicated that the “soft loan” to fund the new Specialty Hospital was approved.
It was considered another milestone in the step towards the modernization of the health sector when the 300- bed inpatient facility of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation was commissioned in November. The long awaited wing has special departments for female and male patients medical, a surgical ward, and floor for physiotherapy. There are also 18 isolated rooms for patients with communicable diseases, a quiet room for grieving relatives and another for prayers.
..jpg)
A section of the new in-patient ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)
The Government continued its agenda of decentralizing health services when it commissioned the $8.7M health centre at Tuschen.
Over the past three years the coverage and the quality of primary health care has been expanded with the construction of several new institutions funded directly from the budget. These include the four diagnostic and treatment centers at Leonora, Suddie, Diamond and Mahaicony, the Ophthalmology Hospital in Port Mourant, and the Modern Linden Hospital among others.
Additionally, there is a large number of students currently pursuing studies in medicine, along with the training of nurses and medex all with the prevailing objective of improving the accessibility and quality of primary health care to Guyanese citizens.
Keeping sugar alive, fostering agriculture
Sugar industries around the Caribbean Region suffered a heavy blow from the European Union (EU) imposed 36 % price cut resulting in Barbados, St. Kitts and neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago exiting sugar.
Instead of joining the bandwagon Guyana which lost $9B in revenue per-annum from the price cut embarked on a modernization plan for the industry, making the largest investment in with the commissioning of the $185M Skeldon Sugar factory three years ago and in 2011, and a US$12.5 M packaging plant at Enmore. The latter, “Project Gold” as it is referred, advances Guyana’s method of packaging sugar for international market by increasing sugar output towards 40,000 tonnes and ultimately 80,000 tonnes in later years.
The modernisation plan for the sugar industry catered for viable operations of estates along the East Coast of Demerara to correspond with the US$12.5M packaging plant at Enmore and in the process, special arrangements were put in place for labour to be shifted from one estate to the next.
Workers of the Diamond East Bank Demerara estate however sought intervention at the level of the government and the union as they opposed the decision that no severance pay will be given to them when their services were ended with the estate’s operations in 2010. The Government injected $300M to GuySuCo for the payout and in June the workers received their cheques with long-serving employees received up to $2M.
Supporting farmers
In the latter part of 2011, Region Five farmers were given titles to lease lands rent free, for 99-years and were encouraged to adopt modern approaches to the sector and to value Guyana’s abundance of land and freshwater. Farmers in lower Pomeroon were also given land on higher ground.
Government’s Grow More Food campaign entered its second phase in August with a focus on climate change awareness. Seeds, other planting materials and breeding animals were distributed to farmers to encourage them to continue planting.
Unprecedented investor interest
Investors’ interest in Guyana grew at unprecedented levels owing to the stable economic environment.
On November 20 the sod was turned for the Marriott Guyana Georgetown, a world class facility that will boast all the requisite amenities. Additionally, Trinidad and Tobago investors will be putting in US$20M to bring MovieTowne to Guyana with the hope of revitalizing the once vibrant movie theatre environment on the local shores.
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo unveils the MovieTowne project
Located at Turkeyen, MovieTowne Guyana will be a chain of eight state-of-the-art multiplex cinemas coupled with 30 local, regional and international stores, a bank area for dining and a parking space for over 700 vehicles.
Mining
Some of the largest investments in the history of mining were initiated during the year with reputable North American companies signing mineral agreements with the Guyana government.
A historic agreement with Guyana Goldfields was inked for the development of the Aurora mines in Region Seven and another with First Bauxite Corporation for bauxite mining in Bonasika along the Essequibo River.
CARICOM retreat
CARICOM leaders met in Guyana for a two -day retreat in May and agreed on a number of important issues for the region, chief among which was job creation and improving the lives of people in the community.
Emphasis was placed on the need to focus on building a greater sense of community and shared values as a Caribbean People and Society.
OLPF
Guyanese families began receiving their free Haier netbooks in November when the distribution phase of Government’s One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) Programme officially commenced.
Recipients of the laptops are obligated to ensure that all the members of their family are trained in the use of the computer and are also required to give 30 hours of their time to assist in training others.
By the end of the year, thousands were already in receipt of the device.
The first batch of 27,000 laptops arrived in October after the Chinese company Haier won the contract as the supplier.
Differently-abled with his laptop
The public’s response to the programme was overwhelming and staff, including community liaison officers, was recruited to man over 200 learning hubs set up across the country to make the task of learning to use the laptop computer much easier.
A school based pilot project was initiated in July whereby students were given the green light to take the laptops from the respective training hubs into their homes.
The 2011 national budget allocated $1.8B for a one laptop per family project with the aim of equipping 90,000 families with the computers, giving priority to the poor and vulnerable.
Calendar events
The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce continued to host its calendar of events to promote Guyana’s fledgling tourism. These took the form of the Bartica and Orealla Regattas, Rupununi rodeo and Pakaraima mountain safari in April.
The Rockstone fish festival in the tranquil community of Rockstone Region Ten, was also one of the highlights.
The second International Building Expo opened at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence in July attracting thousands who witnessed over 100 companies are showcasing their products and services in the building sector.
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Housing Minister Irfaan Ali look at models of homes at the 2nd Building Expo
Guyana’s renowned trade fair and exposition GuyExpo also made the highlights when Over 200 arts and craft producers from Georgetown, a delegation of 70 from neighbouring Suriname and 45 through the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Development Organisation participated.
The first ever women’s exposition under the name Feminition premiered at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence in May. Organised through the Ministry of Labour Human Services and Social Security and private sector agencies, the three -day event provided women with another platform for empowerment.
Mashramani, the celebration after hard work was successfully hosted on February 23 as Guyana celebrated its 41st Republic Anniversary. The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, through its Mash Secretariat led the nation in the organisation of a series of events designed to culminate with the usual float parade along the city.
Education and skills training
The Government delivered on its promise to diversify the delivery of technical education when it commissioned a new $427.5M technical institute at Leonora. Outfitted with an ICT laboratory with 60 computers, and other laboratories, the technical institute has the capacity to house 250 full time students and 200 part-time students for training in areas such as mechanical and electrical engineering, welding, carpentry and masonry.
A spanking new $293.5M Secondary School was also commissioned in the same community.
Skills training under the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and National Training Programme for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE) continued through the year allowing more youths and single parents to be trained in mechanic, electrical repairs, welding, masonry, catering, patient care assistants, record keeping, cosmetology, garment construction and information technology.
Graduates of the Board of Industrial Training in Region Two
The programme aims to ensure that the general population, particularly youths, are given the opportunity to acquire a skill that will make them more marketable. It commenced in 2005 with a budget of $11M and has grown over the years to a budget of $145 M in 2011.
Under the Community Action Component (CAC) of the Citizens Security Programme out of school youths are targeted and equipping for the workforce while at the same time forging greater community cohesion.
Since its re-launch in February 2010, this programme has seen hundreds of youths benefiting from skills and vocational training that has already been implemented in communities such as: Sophia, Annandale/Lusignan, Port Mourant, Rosehall, Kilcoy/Chesney/Fyrish, Overwinning/Edinburgh, and Agricola/McDoom. By the end of 2011, over 1400 youths would have benefitted from the programme.
Additionally, hundreds of youths completed training under the youth entrepreneurial skills training at the Kuru Kuru Training Centre and Sophia.
 YEST graduating students at the Kuru Kuru Training Centre
Electricity upgrade
The Demerara grid was supplemented with 15.6 Mega Watts of power after the newly expanded US$50M Kingston Power Plant became operational on September 27 after it was commissioned by the President.
The Guyana Power and Light spent in excess of US$7.1M to extend its grid to accommodate unserved areas such as new housing communities in Linden, Timehri, East Berbice, Bartica, East and West Coast Demerara and West Bank Demerara.
The sod was turned for the construction of seven 69/13.8KV substations and for improvements in transmission lines.
The second phase of the Hinterland Electrification Programme began with 1,000 photovoltaic systems distributed out of a total of 11,000.
CBSI
The threats arising from the increase in crime and violence throughout the region were addressed when partnering States in CARICOM and the United States met in Guyana for the Second Meeting of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Commission
Since its launch in May 2010 the initiative stakeholders have been working to enhance information sharing among law enforcement agencies, capacity building, crime prevention and maritime security cooperation.
Responding to floods
Nature took its toll in parts of Guyana during 2011. Heavy rainfall over a two-week period in the early part of June inundated the majority of villages in Region Nine affecting residents and their livelihood, prompting government to coordinate a national relief effort.
Symptoms of La Nina phenomenon saturated parts of Guyana in the early part of the year with precipitation of over three to five inches. An emergency response committee was summoned while monitoring was done in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, and Ten.
Roll on roll off ferries
Guyana’s river transportation received an enormous boost when the two new roll- on- roll off ferry vessels arrived in Guyana after a 50 -day passage from China. The contract for the design and construction of the vessels was inked the previous year.
 New roll-on-roll-off ferries arrive
TOP
|
