ARCHIVES FOR APRIL 07 2008
Welcome to our ARCHIVES
CONTACT
Editor-in-Chief
News Editor
Sports Editor
Webmaster
TOP STORY

CARICOM agrees on wide range of anti-crime measures
WITH crime and security as the focus of the just-concluded 13th Special Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have agreed to implement a wide range of measures to tackle the serious issues of crime and security currently plaguing the region.

These measures address issues such as illegal firearms, deportees, crime prevention, drug trafficking, murder, kidnapping, gang- and youth- related violence, according to a statement issued at the conclusion.

The April 4 to 5 forum which was initiated by host Prime Minister Patrick Manning was agreed to when the heads met for the 19th Inter-Sessional in Nassau, Bahamas, recently.

The 13th Special Meeting was preceded by three preparatory meetings of the Heads of Police Services and Military Forces in Guyana from March 18 to 20; the Fifth Meeting of Council for Ministers of National Security and Law Enforcement on April 3, in Port of Spain; and a meeting of the Security Policy Advisory Committee (SEPAC) comprising senior officials of Ministries of National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE) as well as senior Security Officers, all of which forwarded proposals.

Regarding crime prevention, the conference according to the statement, agreed to  promote inter-agency collaboration for crime prevention at the national level; establish the Regional Investigative Management Team to support difficult and protracted investigations; implement the CARICOM Justice Protection Programme and work towards the establishment of a Western Hemispheric Justice Protection Programme and establish a CARICOM polygraphing capacity with a view to addressing corruption in law enforcement and other agencies.

The enactment of legislation to allow for plea bargaining, the interception of communications and confiscation of assets connected to criminal activity was also agreed to.

On the issue of illegal firearms, it was agreed that existing regulations that pertain to the use and storage of firearms and ammunition would be enforced ; that a regional database of firearms to be accessible by all regional law enforcement agencies would be developed; that the capacity of detection and surveillance methods in relation to the movement of firearms including the importation, sale, transfer, theft and use of firearms would be increased; along with the introduction of measures to improve systems, procedures, intelligence and training with a view to enhancing border security;

The conference also agreed that in the area of drug trafficking to increase the capability and coordination among law enforcement agencies to develop intelligence to conduct operations, and to enhance the enforcement of laws; maximise the use of available technology in detection, deterrence and seizure of illegal drugs entering and transiting the Region; and ensure the implementation of systems, procedures, intelligence and training with a view to enhancing border security.

And with regard to murder, the development of a specially trained, equipped and dedicated teams of homicide investigators; the full utilisation of forensics, including DNA and comprehensive crime scene management; the introduction video in criminal proceeding, inclusive of ID parades: as well as the timely completion of investigations and improve conditions for speedy prosecution of persons charged, were noted in the statement.

An agreement for the development of monitoring capability, intelligence monitoring and analytic capacity on gang related activity nationally and regionally was reached in the area of gang and youth-related violence, while with regard to kidnapping, the conference agreed to the establishment and training of counter-kidnapping units (response teams and hostage negotiators); increased use of technology and intelligence; as well as for the monitor and target gangs/ individuals whose modus operandi includes kidnapping/ forcible abduction.

And as it relates to deportees, the agreement reached included to  pursue negotiations of standardised agreements/MOUs with Canada, to United Kingdom, the United States of America and other states and that such agreements/ MOUs should provide inter alia, for adequate notification periods; the settlement of personal affairs prior to deportation of long-term residents; complete dossiers, including criminal antecedents and medical records where applicable; appropriate arrangements to reduce the financial burden on deported persons, and on receiving countries; support for programmes designed to aid the rehabilitation and reintegration of deported persons in the Region; the establishment of a mandatory requirement for the enforcement of monitoring orders where persons are deported in relation to convictions for specified major offences.

Others, the statement noted, were for the development of an information-sharing protocol to guide the transfer and dissemination of information related to deported persons between relevant law enforcement authorities throughout the Region; and collaboration in the establishment of transition centres in each country to facilitate short-term stays for deported persons without shelter and/or familial support.

The statement noted too, that the Heads of Government agreed that, building on the legacy of the success of the Security Co-operation arrangements put in place for the Cricket World Cup 2007 some of the elements would be upgraded and expanded on a permanent basis.

These include the Advanced Passenger Information System, the Regional Intelligence Fusion Centre and the Joint Regional Communications Centre.

In addition, they agreed too, that an Advanced Cargo Information System would be put in place. Discussions would continue with respect to the CARICOM Visa, the CARICOM Travel Card and the Single Domestic Space.

The Heads also agreed to put into operation the Action Plan submitted by the Commissioners of Police and Military Chiefs and supported by the SEPAC and CONSLE. The Plan called for short, medium and long term measures to curb the high levels of crime in the Community. These include a strategy to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons along with the establishment of a Regional Integrated Ballistics Information Network (RIBIN) and a Regional Investigative Management System (RIMS).

An agreement was reached too for the signing of CARICOM Maritime and Air Space Security Co-operation Agreement and the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Treaty by July 2008.

Wiretapping needs to be regulated by legislation -- President Jagdeo
NEWSDAY (Trinidad) Sweeping legislative changes, including a proposal to regulate the practice of wiretapping in the entire region, are among a series of recommendations agreed to by CARICOM Heads of States, Bharrat Jagdeo, the Guyanese president, revealed Saturday.

Speaking to reporters outside of the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton Trinidad where a special security meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government was concluded, Jagdeo disclosed that he had personal knowledge that wiretapping is done throughout the region and revealed that it was agreed by heads of government that the practice should be regulated by legislation.

“People wiretap now,” he said, “but they can’t use it for evidence because it’s done illegally.”

“Some countries have wiretapping legislation — others don’t. We need to have wiretapping legislation for all the countries of the region. This is an important tool in the arsenal in the fight against crime now,” Jagdeo said. Asked which countries engage in wiretapping in the region, Jagdeo would not go into specifics, simply asserting that the practice is done in the region.

“It happens and I know it happens…but of course it has to be done under controlled circumstances to respect people’s privacy but this is absolutely necessary,” he said.

The proposal echoes similar plans to allow evidence obtained via wiretapping to be allowed in courts in the United Kingdom.

Agriculture Ministry/Digicel partnership to expand services to Region 1 farmers
THE Ministry of Agriculture will partner with Irish Telecommunications giant, Digicel to utilise the SMS mobile network to improve and expand its services to Region 1 (Barima/Waini) farmers

Minister of Agriculture made the disclosure last Saturday at a simple ceremony convened in Port Kaituma, Region 1 to officially launch the company’s services in the remote community.

Persaud pointed out that the technology would allow his ministry to get instant contact with farmers, learn of their problems, give advice and get the necessary feedback imperative to enhance their productivity.

The minister lauded the cellular phone giant for extending its operations to Region 1 which has already substantially improved the quality of lives of residents there and has opened up new entrepreneurial opportunities.

According to Persaud the telecommunications sector is imperative in creating market driven opportunities because it provides real time information and orders to businesses which are critical in meeting their customers need.

This network, he underscored is essential to improving customers’ service and to accelerate national development.

Guyana he said is one this path noting that in 2000 some 35,000 persons had access to the internet but today more than half the population enjoys the facility.

He remarked that the project vividly reflects foreign investors’ confidence in doing business here which indicates the country is moving leap and bounds.

The minister underlined, government welcomes the investment and encourages ventures of similar magnitude from other companies to improve the lives of Guyanese.

He also call on Digicel to support his ministry’s newly launched “Grow More Campaign” which seeks to ensure national food security and enhance the country’s export capacity.

Digicel Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Mark Linehan delivering brief remarks said: “I’m delighted to be here today to officially switch on the Digicel network in Port Kaituma. When we launched in Guyana, we promised the people of Guyana that we would build a network that offered crystal clear coverage throughout Guyana, especially to those parts of the interior that never before had access to mobile communications”.

Mr.Linehan explained that the Northwest District’s abundant rich resources and amazing potential are the driving forces behind the company’s investment in the region.

“We wanted to bring our service to this area to allow the Government, the Regional Administration, local businesses and residents of this community to realise the true potential here,” he declared.

At the beginning of the brief launch ceremony, Region 1 Chairman Fermin Singh welcomed Digicel and highlighted the mobile service being provided in Mabaruma and Port Kaituma has already had a transforming impact for the better in Region One.

During the launch winner of the mobile giant’s Big D promotion Mr. Linehan presented Wauna Scheme, (Region 1) resident Mrs Yvonne Persaud her cheque of $ 1.3 M. Filled with joy Mrs Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle that part of the money will go towards her children’s education.

As part of the launch activities in Port Kaituma, the local community and visitors celebrated with a street party near the Cell Site. Many residents took the opportunity to visit the newly opened Digicel Store to purchase handsets and to take advantage of the many offers now available to the community.

Digicel provides coverage for more than 93% of the population - with almost 30% more cell sites than anyone else. Before Digicel’s 1st Anniversary, in February this year, coverage stretched continuously from Charity to Corriverton along the coastal corridor and south to Linden and Bartica with coverage also at Mabaruma, and Lethem. Digicel extended coverage to Mahdia, Santa Rosa and Kwakwani by the time of the 1st Anniversary.

Since the company was launched on 14 February 2007, it has invested over US$60 million in building The Bigger, Better Network to enable Guyanese have access to reliable mobile communications on a network that offers the widest coverage.
NEWS

CARICOM expresses shock at tragic Suriname plane crash
CARICOM Heads of Government have expressed shock at the loss of lives from the tragic plane crash which killed 19 people in Suriname and offered their deepest sympathy to the Government and People of Suriname and in particular to the relatives of those who lost their lives.

This was done during an informal session the Heads had on the first day of the just concluded April 4 to 5 Special Meeting which had as its thrust to ‘fully ventilate the crime and security issues facing the Region and to agree on a Strategy and Plan of Action to stem the rising tide of violent criminality’.

The discussions at the informal session centered on the views and perspectives of the Heads of Government with respect to the future of the Community as well as the strengthening of the Governance arrangements of the Community, a statement noted.

It stated too, that the Heads reiterated their strong commitment to the integration process and the completion of the arrangements for the CARICOM Single Market and Economy and also agreed that in order to achieve the goal of a Community for all, ways must be found for the greater inclusion of the Associate Members of the Community.

They mandated that an appraisal of the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market arrangements in each Member State be conducted with a view to improving its operations.

The Heads meanwhile, also, expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago for providing the environment which ensured a fruitful and productive discussion.

CH&PA expresses concerns about flouting of building plans
By Chamanlall Naipaul
THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) has expressed concerns about Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) not ensuring that persons constructing buildings adhere to building plans.

In an invited comment, Chairman of the CH&PA, Dr. Moti Lall said in many instances it has been found that “what is contained in building plans is not what obtains on the ground.”

In this regard, he is urging NDCs to pay closer attention to overlooking construction of buildings within their respective communities.

Another issue of concern identified by Dr. Lall is the charge against the CH&PA of a sloth in processing building plans.

However, he explained that on the contrary it is because of bungling at the level of the NDCs, which have to make recommendations to the CHPA, the process is delayed.

Meanwhile, the CHPA Chairman disclosed that some $3.4B will be spent on infrastructure projects during this year.

In addition, several objectives are targeted including the completion of infrastructure for about 2,000 house lots; allocation of a further 2,000 low and middle-income house lots; processing of 2,500 titles/transports; establishment of two new housing areas-one at Port Kaituma and the other at Bartica; and a vigorous repossession for lots which are not beneficially occupied.

According to Dr. Lall in order to achieve the major goals, the CH&PA will continue to aggressively pursue capacity building-both internal and external to the Agency.

He added that externally CH&PA continues to interface with sister agencies, which is necessary for the smooth implementation of housing development projects.

The over arching objective for 2008 is to continue to provide access to affordable housing and facilitate access to financing for low-income earners, Dr. Lall said, adding that special attention will have to be paid to brainstorming innovative approaches to financing for low income groups and the possibility of a pilot project for the very poor.

The strategic measures for achieving these objectives include accelerating housing development; facilitating access to affordable financing; accelerating processing of land titles; and granting of security of tenure among others.

The CH&PA Chairman noted that these policy objectives and priorities are consistent with the strategy articulated in the National Development Strategy, the Poverty reduction Strategy and the Minister of Housing and Water budget speech.

He also said that during this year much emphasis will be placed on the improvement of management of the CH&PA, and there will be focus on qualitative issues and improvement of service delivery.

“There are too many complaints from the Authority’s customers; concerted efforts will be placed on reducing and eliminating the causes of complaints, more specifically, the backlog of transports and certificates of titles and reducing transaction times, that is, the time it takes to conclude a customer’s business. Heads of Department will be held accountable for the efficiency of their respective departments and the departmental work programmes have been detailed to ensure that duties/activists are assigned to staff, in a way that holds them accountable and responsible for the timely delivery of quality work,” Dr. Lall indicated.

Meanwhile, the members of the Board of Directors appointed for a period of two years are: Dr. Moti Lall-Chairman, while the other members are Ranwell Jordan, Arthur Fraser, Sammy Rampersaud, Arthur Corlette, Natasha Claxton, Winifred yearwood, Khalid Alladin, Enrique Monize, Dr. Ashok Sookdeo, Rabindranauth Persaud, Moeenul hack, Deolatchmee Ramotar, Ricky Jageshwar Sharma and Chanroutie Sarran.

Prashad acknowledges SMEs contribution to economic development
By Priya Nauth
MINISTER of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Mr. Manniram Prashad has asserted that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) contribute significantly to the economic development of a country, especially in terms of job creation.

He made this comment during his address at the opening session for the presentation of the Guyana’s SMEs Strategy last Friday at the Cara Lodge, Georgetown.

“They are perceived as the economic force of a nation and as such, must be able to provide high quality products and services to access regional and international markets,” he charged.

The Minister said that this initiative is being undertaken by the Pan-Commonwealth SME Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Competitiveness Development Programme, not only in Guyana but in two other Caribbean countries--Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Prashad outlining some of the objectives of the SME Strategy Development Programme said it provides assistance through training and development in facilitating the SME sector working together including the use of appropriate ICT applications.

He said also another objective is to develop effective strategies and roadmaps for the three client countries into the area of Small and Medium Enterprise development which may subsequently be integrated in the country’s economic development SME policy and activities.

He noted that the specified objectives are part of the mandate of the Commonwealth Ministerial Group meeting on Small States held in December 2003.

According to him, the global trading system of which we are apart of is redefining business in Guyana and other developing countries hence to be more competitive, our business must be able to respond to more demanding market.

“It therefore means, that small and medium enterprises in our country need to be efficient, innovative and proactive in their business practices,” he urged.

He also pointed out that Guyana’s rising competitiveness challenge has cushioned the need for a competitiveness strategy.

Prashad said that the executive summary of the Guyana’s National Competitiveness Strategy document, a public/private partnership initiative, has outlined clearly our position for it to succeed in the global market place.

The minister also pointed out that for Guyana, the terms of reference for the project is to provide assessment and analysis of the SME sector, develop a SME strategy, facilitate a stakeholder consultation programme, a strategy dissemination programme and submit a detailed report including the output of the assignment.

“There is no doubt that small businesses are an effective vehicle for the development of the national economy which contributes to the reduction of poverty. Small businesses could also claim to be the world’s biggest businesses since it is estimated that more than 95 percent of the world’s business are small to medium sized,” Prashad emphasised.

“In Guyana, small businesses represent about three-quarter of the total business activities and make a substantial contribution to the generation of employment and income,” he informed.

He offered that SMEs are extremely important hence every effort must be made to strengthen their competitiveness by facilitating their involvement in industry, national and regional standardization activities which will in turn bring economic growth and development of SMEs.

Prashad also observed that research has proven that the implementation of a quality management system is one of the key solutions to help streamline the sector and many businesses started as small, medium or micro-enterprises have today developed into large entities due to the implementation of enhanced quality control mechanisms.

The minister commented that the encouragement and development of small business growth has been a major concern of both governmental and non-governmental organisations in many developing countries.

He noted that some of the challenges that SMEs experience include limited ability to absorb high transaction costs, lack of access to capital markets and lack of lobbying capacity and as a result, various national and regional initiatives are being taken to promote SMEs development around the world.

He commended the initiative by the Commonwealth Secretariat and all the relevant agencies and encouraged the stakeholders to play their role in addressing the recommendations outlined in the document.

The minister assured that the government will continue to lobby for financial support for the successful implementation of the strategy.

Police investigating death of Brazilian miner
THE police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Brazilian Miner Valdilmar Vara Da Silva, 55 years, which occurred about 09:50h on Saturday last at Kamarang.

Investigations revealed that Da Silva and the suspect, who is one of his employees, had an argument over payment for work done during which the suspect allegedly fatally stabbed Da Silva about his body and escaped.

Mahaica goldsmith, wife attacked and robbed
AT about 23:00h. last Saturday night Goldsmith Devanand Singh, 30, and his wife were attacked and robbed by three armed men at their home at Helena No 2, Mahaica, ECD.

According to reports Devanand Singh and his wife were aroused by the sound of breaking glass and upon checking were confronted by the three men who were armed with a handgun, a knife and a piece of wood and were in the house.

The victims were held up by the men who demanded jewellery and cash and ransacked the house, taking away a quantity of jewellery, $30,000.00 GC, $100.00 US and two cell phones and escaped.

During the incident Singh was cut about his body with the knife and was admitted to the Georgetown Hospital Corporation

National Science, Mathematics and Technology Fair ends in splendour
-Chateau Margot Primary adjudged for the best overall project, St Rose’s High and Rose Hall CPCE also outstanding
By Joe Chapman
THE National Science, Mathematics and Technology Fair which was held at Wisburg Secondary School at Wismar in Linden ended in splendour with Chateau Margot Primary School adjudged as having the Best Overall Project: ‘The Uses of Luffa’ presented by petite Ms. Radica Sookram; for which they were rewarded with the Office of the President’s Trophy.They also carted off prizes for the Best Primary Project, while also winning in the Home Economics category of the three-day affair.

However, equally outstanding was St Roses High among the Sixth Form Schools with their ‘Harnessing Energy from Waves’ in the Physics category and claiming the Best Oral Prize through presenter Ms. Angela Bispat, while Rose Hall’s Cyril Potter College of Education also won acclaim for their ‘Solar Water Purifier,’ while Zeeburg Secondary emerged the winner in the category: Best Tertiary Project for junior secondary schools.

The best secondary school project was that of Christianburg/Wismar Secondary with their ‘Living to dye,’ while for the Oral presentations St Margaret’s Primary School, Reon Miller was outstanding with their ‘Corn Surprise, promoting a healthy and staple diet.’

Shevon Cobis of the Wisburg Secondary School Annex also excelled being the Best Oral winner for junior secondary schools. A special prize was won by St. Stanislaus College for being Most ‘Innovative’ with their ‘Shampoo Machine.’

Regional Chairman of Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice) Mr. Mortimer Mingo who was unavoidably absent had his speech read by Regional Information Officer, Mr. Leon Roberts.

The regional chairman informed all that they would have sensed that their stay was a rewarding and pleasurable three-day period as “you interacted and showcased the technological and scientific prowess possessed by our young minds gathered here today.”

He said that the theme chosen for the fair had long been a guiding principle for the RDC since the community with its myriad technological skills has long been convinced that science, mathematics and technology are a foundation for national and global development.

He declared: “I was excited at the fact that Region 10 and more specifically Linden, has been chosen to be the site if this important national event, since our community has a long and rich history of contributing to the scientific and technological needs of our country.” He noted “the names Samuel Hinds and Robeson Benn, now Prime Minister and Minister of Works respectively are known to residents of Linden, since the Prime Minister worked as a chemical engineer and Minister Benn as a geologist right here in Linden, while our own Horace James, a mining engineer by training continues to serve our community as Chief Executive Officer of the Linmine Secretariat.

In drawing this distinction, Mr. Mingo observed that the community has been the training ground for many of the country’s top engineers and persons engaged in many scientific fields and it is important that this fact be recognised and utilised to provide the motivation to ensure the stimulation of interest in these fields among children.

A beaming District Education Officer (Secondary) for Region 10, Mrs. Jennifer Bourne of Region 10, collected the plaque for being the ‘Best Region’ as was evident in the success of the fair which was applauded by all the regions which attended and all came away winners in one way or another.

Explaining her school’s presentation, Ms. Afsana Appalsamy, of the CPCE of Rose Hall said “this has been an incredible experience for me I have never felt better than this before. I think our hard work paid off today. We were looking at how to purify water. It is not expensive.”

The eloquent St Roses High School student, Ms Angela Bispat, was all smiles saying “they had a concentration on Physics and “what we did is that we had tidal energy with aid of electromagnetic induction to produce a current. We used Lenz’s law which states an electromotive force generates a current which induces a counter magnetic field, which generates a magnetic field generating the current.”

Agriculture sector to benefit from market analysis information
Guyana’s Agriculture sector is expected to significantly benefit from exposure to market analysis information regarding food supply, as well as new developments on climate change discussions, following the Bali Summit.

This is being made possible through its participation at two important meetings intended to further improve the Agriculture Sector.

The meetings include: the just concluded “All ACP Agricultural commodities Programme Regional Consultation Workshop”, in Jamaica from April 1-3, and the United Nations (UN) Climate Change Convention and Ad Hoc Working Group on the further commitments for Annexe I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol, scheduled for April 10 – 13 in Bangkok.

The “All ACP Agricultural commodities Programme Regional Consultation Workshop” held in Jamaica was attended by Dr. Oudho Homenauth, Director of the Ministry’s research arm, National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI).

Meanwhile, Commissioner of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Andrew Bishop and a member of the National Climate Change Committee is expected to represent Guyana at the United Nations (UN) Climate Change Convention and Ad Hoc Working Group meeting scheduled for April 10 – 13 in Bangkok.

The Ministry of Agriculture noted that the Workshop will initiate work on the analysis of the means that may be available to Annex I Parties to reach their emission reduction targets, including:

* Emissions trading and project-base mechanisms under the Kyoto Protocol

* The rules to guide the treatment of land use, land-use change and forestry

* The green house gases, sectors and sound categories to be covered

* Possible approaches targeting sectoral emissions

It is also expected to address the identification of ways to enhance the effectiveness of these means and their contribution to sustainable development. While there, Mr. Bishop will also represent Guyana at the first pricing discussion for the Carbon Fund for the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Fund of the World Bank’s Forest Carbon partnership Facility (FCPF) scheduled for Tuesday last.

Meanwhile, elaborating on the meeting to be attended by Dr. Oudho Homenauth,

A release from the Ministry of Agriculture outlined that the objectives of the workshop will enable Guyana to develop a commodity chain market analysis which will be important in advancing the wider Jagdeo initiative.

In addition, it said, Guyana will access information on the state of development of Pacific commodity chains. It will also elicit inputs from stakeholders to guide the formulation of the Programme Work Plans for the implementation of activities in coherence with national and regional priorities, the release said.

Sixteen graduate as home-based caregivers
By Sarada Singh
SOME 16 volunteers that successfully completed four weeks of intense training as Home Based Care (HBC) givers graduated at a simple ceremony on Friday, signalling the start of their appointment.

The programme is an initiative undertaken by the Guyana HIV/AIDS Reduction Project (GHARP) and will benefit persons living with HIV/AIDS by providing optimum care and attention in their homes.

The sixteen volunteers were selected from four Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) namely; Lifeline Counselling, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association, Love and Faith and the Network of Guyanese Living and Affected by HIV.

Among those present were Director of Lifeline Counselling Services, Mr. Derick Springer, Nutritionist from the Ministry of Health Annexe Ms. Yvette De Freitas and other representatives from the various NGO’s.

According to GHARP’s DR. Karen Gordon-Boyle, the national HBC programme is a richer one because of the sacrifice and commitment displayed by the participants to complete the training session.

She noted that while the realisation of the project is a major accomplishment for GHARP, it also serves to show that the four PEPFAR-funded Non-Governmental Organisations can come together to demonstrate their commonality with regards to the HBC undertaking.

Dr. Boyle alluded that the programme’s mandate is to improve the quality of life for persons living with HIV/AIDS and should be enforced immediately after a person is diagnosed with the virus.

This, she underscored is vital in enabling a person to overcome the impact of their diagnosis by serving to motivate them to accept their status and to avail themselves for the relevant treatment.

She further pointed out that as caregivers, the graduates must be able to effectively conduct a comprehensive assessment of their clients’ needs which include physical care, psychological, spiritual and social.

Meanwhile, the caregiver who will be working in collaboration with health care workers will provide patients with the option of receiving treatment at their homes rather than being exposed to less than dignified situations at some institutions.

Dr. Boyle also emphasised that while caregivers can be well qualified and regarded as good volunteer workers, they cannot be fully effective unless they are able to empathise with their clients.

As such, she posited that care givers must operate based on how they would want to be treated if they were in their client’s place, by transforming a possibly condemned life to one of complete satisfaction.

“You the graduands have been taught much but there is one lesson that texts, hand outs and tutors wouldn’t be able to teach you. It is a quality that in my mind differentiates a well trained volunteer from a great one. It is the ability to empathise with your client. To put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself how would I want to be treated, spoken to, touched or related to if it was me lying there or sitting on the other side of the table?

The willingness to put yourself in this uncomfortable position – even just for a moment, it would guide our every word, every intonation, body language and ultimately our actions.

I charge you therefore to challenge yourselves, to be not just well trained volunteers but great ones,” Dr. Boyle said.

She added that the HBC programme entails specific focus on HIV/AIDS-infected clients but can also serve to address the needs of rehabilitating patients such as those who are bedridden.

The HBC programme which began on March 3 and concluded on March 28 exposed the participants to theoretical and practical sessions on stigma, discrimination and HIV/AIDS, care for the caregiver, grief and bereavement, nutrition, pediatric HIV and opportunistic infections.

President Jagdeo refutes Gouveia’s contention on helicopters
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo has refuted Captain Gerry Gouveia’s recent comment that the Bell helicopters are not suitable for crime fighting because of their seating accommodation.

The President in an invited comment to the Government Information Agency (GINA) at State House yesterday evening described the comment as “silly and most unfortunate.”

The Head of State said before making such comments, one should understand the reason for purchasing the helicopters, which is mainly for surveillance.

“I think the comment that the helicopters are not for crime fighting because they have a limited seating capacity to carry people is a silly one. You have to understand crime fighting in different ways. It is not just transporting troops. It is about surveillance. It is about ensuring you have visibility. You can track people.”

He explained that the helicopters will be equipped with sophisticated equipment that could light up an entire area or can track someone through heat technology if he or she is running through bushes or wherever else.

The President reiterated that the helicopters were bought for crime fighting and this is what they will be used for.

Commanding Officer of the Guyana Defence Force Carghil Kyte after the inspections said the helicopter fits directly into crime fighting because of its capabilities to quick reaction to confined areas, an endeavour which was difficult with the previous helicopter.

The new helicopter is a single engine five-seater aircraft which could reach an altitude of 20,000 feet. It is the most reliable reconnaissance aircraft of its kind in the world and more economical to operate.

Among its other feature is the capacity to become airborne in less than five minutes and its ability to fly for hours depending on wind direction and other circumstances. (GINA)

Gunns Strip rapidly developing - Benn
- residents’ requests for improved access being considered
GUNNS Strip, the most far-flung Wai-Wai Village located in South Rupununi is rapidly developing the request by residents for improved transportation access to neighbouring communities is being considered.

This is according to Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn, who recently returned from a three-day visit to the area. He was accompanied by a team of officials from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Ministry of Health and Guyana Environmental Capacity Development Project (GENCAPD).

During interactions with residents, requests were made for the community’s airstrip to be upgraded and for the trail to be improved from Gunns Strip to Parabara on the southern side of the Kassaikaityu River and on the opposite section from Parabara to Aishalton.

At present, the journey from Gunns Strip to Aishalton takes 12 to 16 days by foot and across the river for residents to purchase goods. In addition, several children from the community attend the secondary school in Aishalton.

Benn pointed out that the community is almost dependent on air services and arrangements are being made for engineers of the Public Works Ministry to inspect the airstrip and explore the possibility of undertaking repairs.

Additionally, efforts will be made through the Ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to upgrade the trail to a standard that will allow access and transport of goods with four-wheel drive vehicles.

Residents volunteered their services to establish the trail while it is expected that necessary tools and resources will be provided by Government to carry out the project.

The main objective of the minister’s visit to the Wai-Wai district was to present the results on the levels of mercury found in mining and non-mining communities and to officially announce the start of a monitoring programme that will protect infants from potential damage related to indirect absorption of mercury present in large carnivorous fish.

The research was conducted under GENCAPD, funded through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and which was initiated by Minister Benn during his service at GGMC.

In 2002, the research investigation compiled the most elaborate data set ever performed in Guyana on mercury in the environment. More than a thousand fishes were sampled in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine and more than a hundred persons agreed to donate small hair samples for the mercury analysis.

Over the past weeks, a team of scientists from the Canadian Centre for Minerals and Energy Technology (CANMET) led by Richard Couture visited several areas and updated residents on the results of the environmental study. The areas included Micobie, El Paso, Campbelltown, Isseneru, Aishalton and Massekanari.

The GENCAPD initiative seeks to develop the technical and managerial capacity of miners and key institutions in the sector for environmentally friendly operations in the mining industry. (GINA)
EDITORIAL

World Health Day, Global Warming and Climate Change.
Today, Guyana joins other countries in the world to observe World Health Day. This year, the day is observed against the backdrop of the effects of global warming and climate change as they relate to health.

As a people we have to be mindful, ever vigilant and be ready to deal with any spin-offs of these two phenomena which may affect the health of our people. The entire Guyanese population knows that Guyana alone has not been singled out to face the disastrous effects of global warming and climate change, but the subject is on the world agenda and is actively receiving the undivided attention of governments across the globe.

Countries like Guyana have to be mindful of the effects of global warming and climate change, because it strikes at the very root of our economic base and could have a domino effect on all sectors of our country and instead of funds being disbursed for the all-round development of our country and people, they would have to be channeled towards fighting the growing threat of global warming and climate change whose menacing onslaught could change the course of history.

In his message to mark the occasion, Health Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy pointed out that over the years efforts have been made to highlight specific health problems that affect people globally. However, he added that this year emphasis will be placed on the whole issue of global warming and climate change and their relationship to health.

We share the sentiments of the Health Minister who said that climate change has in fact become a challenge for health which he emphasized is an especially important topic for Guyana, because unlike some countries, Guyana is not in the debating phase on this issue. He added that climate change is a reality and therefore Guyana must respond with mitigating activities.

Over the years we have had our full dose of ailments and diseases, some endemic and some pandemic However, because of rapid improvements in our Public Health Sector over the years, we have been able to cope with a lot of life-threatening health conditions and bring them under control.

Our new and improved health services across the country are fully equipped and geared for the early detection of illnesses and diseases and treatment of same. We note that only recently four new diagnostic centres were commissioned at Diamond on the East Bank Demerara, Leonora on the West Coast Demerara, Suddie on the Essequibo Coast and Lusignan on the East Coast Demerara. These centres are manned fully by doctors, nurses and other health workers to guarantee that patients receive the best possible treatment when they visit these institutions.

The Guyanese people note with satisfaction the help given by the Government of Cuba by way of sending doctors, nurses and other health workers to Guyana and we must admit they are doing a fantastic job in our health sector. They are also involved in training some of our health workers here. At the moment also scores of Guyanese are in Cuba studying in the field of medicine and others are being trained in other health practices.

Guyanese are also very appreciative of the construction works currently under way at Linden in Region Ten and New Amsterdam in Region Six where two massive hospital complexes are taking shape to cater for the needs of the people in these two regions. Guyanese also note the spanking new wings which replaced the old, run-down and dilapidated buildings which once greeted the sick at the Public Hospital Georgetown, which has since been renamed Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Lest we forget, Guyana’s health sector recorded another success story with the establishment of the Caribbean Heart Institute in the compound of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation which has already carried out four open heart surgeries

Over the years since the current government took office, World Health Day has seen Guyana, with heavy injection of funds in the Health Sector transforming the entire health care sector to one which is patient friendly, and from the Rupununi savannahs to the Corentyne waters, Guyanese are receiving excellent health care without discrimination.

As we join today in observing World Health Day, let us remind ourselves about the dangers global warming and climate change could bring to us. Let us therefore be ever vigilant and join in the campaign to sensitise people about the deleterious effects of global warming and climate change.
FEATURES

A closer look at rising food prices and governments interventions
A GINA feature by Melissa Edwards
OIL, a non-renewable resource takes millions of years to form and has many uses, as it contributes to the formation of fuel, paint, detergent and numerous other items.

Today the price for this essential commodity has skyrocketed with the most dramatic increases seen over the last five years.

In 2003, oil was US $22 per barrel. In just 14 months the oil price has more than doubled from US $54 per barrel in January 2007 to US $110 per barrel in March 2008.

The increases have been blamed on the booming energy demand, dwindling oil resources and subsequent shift in demand-supply.

This has impacted too, on the price of food which continues to rise, affecting many countries including the Caribbean and Guyana.

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has warned that rising prices have already triggered a food crisis in 36 countries.

The World Bank which has added its concern over the issue, pointed out that global food prices have risen by 75 percent since 2000, while wheat prices have increased by 200 percent

The Bank also predicts that the global demand for food will double by 2030, partly because the worldxs population is expected to grow by three billion by 2050.

In the past year alone fuel and grain prices have gone up by 40 percent.

World Food Programme, Head Josette Sheeran states that the rise in food prices on climate change, the growing demand from India and China, and the switch to bio-fuels that utilise crops to produce energy causing corn to reach its most expensive in 12 years.

This is pushing up the price of meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products and experts predict that the prices will continue to rise.

In neighbouring Trinidad &Tobago (T&T), the Trinidad Guardian recently reported Prime Minister Patrick Manning as saying that the high price of oil was a double-edged sword for the country, responsible for driving prices of all goods and services.

The impact of the food price rise caused Heads of Government to hold a special summit in December 2007 in Guyana. At that forum, it was agreed that the Jagdeo initiative is imperative in dealing with the regionxs food situation.

CARICOM Heads recommended that efforts be made to increase regional content in food consumption.

Governmentxs Interventions
The administration has been making several efforts to cushion the effects of the rising world market prices for fuel. Recently it announced that the excise tax on diesel has been reduced to zero percent.

This administration has progressively reduced the rate of tax applied to gasoline and diesel. Currently the tax on gasoline stands at 17 percent.

The acquisition cost for diesel and gasoline has been increasing steadily over the last year. In January 2007 gasoline was being imported at US$58.83 a barrel.

The shipment in March came in at US$109.55 per barrel which represents an increase of 86.2 percent.

In January 2007, diesel was imported at US$61.47 per barrel while the March shipment was priced at US$130.87, an increase of 112.9 percent.

Government has continued to maintain its policy of zero taxation on kerosene.

In January 2007 when government implemented the Valued Added Tax (VAT), it zero-rated numerous food items. It was around the same time that food prices began rising internationally.

In the 2008 National Budget, government zero-rated another long list of items including wheaten flour with effect from March 1. However, food prices still kept rising.

The administration has also been promoting the Jagdeo Initiative on Agriculture which will see long term benefits.

The vision of the Initiative is to:
* Make substantial progress to contribute significantly to national and regional development and social and environmental sustainability.

* Ensure a transparent regulatory framework at the national and regional levels that would promote and facilitate investments and would attract direct and indirect capital flows.

* Significantly transform processes and products and stimulate innovative entrepreneurial capacity of Caribbean Agriculture and Rural Communities.

Guyana will be hosting an Agriculture Investment Forum shortly at which time the Jagdeo Initiative will take the spotlight.

Government continues to advocate the importance of growing more local produce as it has become even more significant for the sustainability of food supply in the regions and in dealing with the rising cost of food prices.

In this regard the Ministry of Agriculture recently launched a major new initiative, xGrow More Food Campaignx aimed at meeting external market demands while at the same time, be able to provide in full quantities; affordable vegetables, fruits, fresh meat and fish to local consumers.

The campaign is part of a US$20M Agricultural Diversification Programme that seeks to help the sector realise its full potential to support continued food security and ensure Guyana becomes the bread basket of the Caribbean.

On April 4, Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon announced that government has established a Ministerial Task Force to further analyse the situation of the effects of the rising cost for fuel on the international market.

The task force which will be headed by Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud, will examine options for interventions and make recommendations to Cabinet.
IN-THE-COURTS

LETTERS