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ARCHIVES FOR NOVEMBER 14 2007

Form partnerships, invest in agriculture
-President urges Caribbean banking officials
By Neil Marks
BANKS within the Caribbean cannot avoid partnerships and must develop a capacity to invest in transnational agricultural companies, President Bharrat Jagdeo said Monday evening as he pushed a regional initiative named after him to create regional food security and a competitive export sector.

With the Caribbean’s food import bill at US$1.5B, Mr. Jagdeo said this presents many opportunities for investment in countries like Guyana with land ready for investment. He said for banks to stay alive in the face of challenges such as acquisitions and world crises, improved lending to micro, small and medium enterprises is needed, along with partnerships.

“Be prepared to form partnerships…you will not succeed if you don’t,” he warned.

Mr. Jagdeo was addressing the opening ceremony of the 34th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Caribbean Association of Indigenous Banks (CAIB) at Le Meridien, Pegasus.

He said the concept of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) has not settled with the people of the region as yet, and hence they still see regional banks as “foreign.”

The government here is ready to offer agricultural land at US$5 per acre. But Mr. Jagdeo reasoned that in reaching out, banks in the region need to become familiar with the different economies in the region, since sectors as forestry and manufacturing might be peculiar to their local strongholds, such as tourism is to Barbados.

He observed that banks within Guyana and the region have a loyal customer base in small and medium enterprises, as he coached top banking executives into improving lending as a strategy fight off world crises and stay afloat.

“You have to develop a core of loyal clients…if the talk is survival,” Mr. Jagdeo exhorted, adding: “When you start working with micro credit, you develop a clientele that is loyal,”

The President, however, insisted that for banks to talk about survival, they have to tackle the issue of the large spread between the interest rates on deposits against lending.

Central Bank Governor Mr. Lawrence Williams agreed, while noting that there are plausible explanations such as the level of credit risks associated with some sectors, investment in banking infrastructure particularly expansion of branch network, acquisition of information and communication technologies and high personnel expenses.

“However, there appears to be adjustments that could be made to bring about some reduction in spreads without compromising financial growth,” Mr. Williams stated.

Williams also made a strong case for improved lending to micro, small and medium enterprises.

He said part of the problem could be the cumbersome application procedure imposed by local banks, high collateral requirements or high interest rates, among others.

“Notwithstanding the fact that commercial lending carries a high degree of inherent risk, I am of the opinion that more investment could be made in understanding the dynamics of the regional business environment so as to capture more of the available commercial opportunities,” Mr. Williams posited.

He also made the case for programmes of financial literacy in the region. He said there are already some initiatives underway with promising results which need to be replicated. Mr. Williams said financial literacy enables vulnerable groups to make greater use of banking services and facilitate engagement in productive activities that can be a catalyst in reducing poverty.

“Improving access to and providing financial education to poor and vulnerable sections of the population such as women and youth contribute to general empowerment and reduce economic vulnerability,” Financial literacy enables vulnerable groups to make greater use of banking services and facilitate engagement in productive activities that can be a catalyst in reducing poverty. Banking the unbanked should be earnestly pursued,” Mr. Williams stated.

The Annual Conference of the CAIB is the premier event for bankers and executives of financial services institutions in the CARICOM region and a dynamic forum for discussion of issues relevant to the regional financial sector.

Over the four days, the Conference will be looking at how we can continue to enable the growth of the regional banking and financial services sector within the context of the global banking and financial services environment under the main theme ‘Defining the Market Space’.

The CAIB has also created sub themes to be addressed by various presenters: ‘CSME: The Platform for Global Market Expansion’ and ‘Banking in a Single Space’.

Brigadier Granger claims on narcotics, fuel smuggling deceptive -Dr Luncheon
GOVERNMENT, through Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon, has condemned the statements made by Guyana Defence Force Brigadier (ret) David Granger on narcotics and fuel smuggling in Guyana.

Dr. Luncheon said the statements made in an article in the Stabroek News yesterday are deceitful.

“The perspective is fraud that former Brigadier Granger is trying to peddle, and by no means addresses the sincere and dedicated reach in which the administration is addressing issues of crime and violence and security in Guyana,” Dr. Luncheon said.

Brigadier Granger in the Stabroek News article claimed that Guyana could experience a better level of public safety and security, but this would remain elusive once there was no political will.

Dr. Luncheon said the administration has demonstrated its commitment through several interventions and will continue to remain dedicated to the matter at hand.

“He also pronounces on the issue of professionalism, and indeed the record shows clearly that the lack of professionalism has been focused on by the Police Force itself, as well as the administration.”

He said, “In essence, Granger’s comment reflects an overview that in the hands of some other journalist would be used to provide a different perspective; one that addresses our current efforts at reform in the security sector, one that addresses the policing, crime fighting, and crime prevention strategy in that component of reform that is currently public matter and is before Parliament, and one that is being implemented with the support of our bilateral partners,” the Cabinet Secretary emphasised.

Dr. Luncheon also pointed to the period in the 1970s when crime was spiralling out of control and corrupt practices were dominant, and noted that Guyanese have come a far way from those dark days.

Government has made several interventions to address the issues of narcotics and fuel smuggling, including signing on to several conventions, forming task forces and the implementation of several aspects of the National Drug Strategy Master Plan (NDSMP).

Members of the Fuel Smuggling and Contraband Task Force to combat fuel and illegal imports have been active.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard is working closely with the relevant agencies to fight fuel smuggling, drug trafficking and piracy.

In May, Executive Officer of the GEA, Joseph O’ Lall, said fuel smuggling was down to 10 percent from 30 percent, and the Coast Guard has co-operated with the Agency to arrest and prosecute smugglers.

Guyana in 2001 signed a bilateral agreement with the U.S. on maritime counter-narcotics co-operation and has bilateral agreements to co-operate in drug trafficking issues with its neighbours and with the United Kingdom.

A review will be conducted on November 26 on Government’s $650M drug master plan which was launched in 2005 to foster institutional, participatory and democratic approaches towards the achievement of a crime-free and healthy society, founded on the principles of social justice, rule of law and respect for authority.

Meanwhile, the administration has prioritised the development of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) through several initiatives, including building modern police stations, and training and providing more resources to enhance the capability of the Force.

The security sector has been receiving continuing increases in budgetary allocations with $9.3B allocated to the sector this year. (GINA)

Hope accident results in another road fatality
By Shirley Thomas
A vehicular accident at Hope, East Coast Demerara on Monday night, has left one man dead and several injured, including a 43-year-old woman who is now a patient in the High Dependency Unit (HDU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Dead is Durgah Bhimraj, 40, of 166 Triumph, Agriculture Road, also on the East Coast Demerara.

Bhimraj who is the owner of the bus he was driving had been hired to take a family to Cane Grove, Mahaica earlier in the day, and was returning with them when his bus reportedly ran off the road, hit the bridge at Hope and ended up in a nearby trench.

He was pronounced dead on arrival at the GPHC. The other persons injured were: Mahadai Gangaram, 43, now in the HDU; Nandaram Gangaram, 46, of Lot 85 Mon Repos; Vishanti Ralph; Deodat Ralph and Patima Ralph - all of Lot 113 Block CC Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, and Sally Latchman.

Apart from Mahadai whose condition is being closely monitored by doctors at the institution, the only person remaining in hospital yesterday was Sally Latchman who was admitted to Ward C2. The others were treated and sent away.

However, Mahadai suffered internal injuries and other injuries to her left hand, and was not doing well yesterday.

Meanwhile, Bhimraj’s wife, Kamini, also called Navita, was very emotional when visited at their Truimph home yesterday. The death of her husband on Monday night, brought an abrupt end to eight wonderful years of marriage, relatives said.

Weeping as she spoke, Kamini recalled that around 14:00 hours on Monday, her husband left the home to take the family from Mon Repos and others to Cane Grove, and said he’d be back home after dropping them off at the end of the day.

She said that as the day came to a close, she looked out eagerly for him, and around 22:00 hours she received a cellular phone call from him, stating that he was in the bus waiting for the party to join him for their return home, and expected to be home by 23:00 hours.

However, shortly after 22:00 hours, things took a turn, and instead of seeing him return home, she received a phone call from the family he was transporting, informing her that he had been involved in an accident, and was at GPHC.

Kamini said, she did not fear the worst, since her husband had always been a safe and sober driver who never imbibed alcoholic beverages. She figured it was probably a minor accident. However, accompanied by family members she hastened down to the hospital.

On arrival at the hospital she was greeted by a doctor who enquired of her identity and subsequently informed her that her husband was dead. She said when she looked at Durgah, he did not appear to be dead, but had a pleasant and smiling countenance.

“I asked him if is joke he making with me, but got no reply.” It was then that she was hit by the stark reality. Her wonderful husband, as she described him, was dead and not sleeping.

Human resources issues at GUYSUCO being addressed
---Agri-Minister confident GUYSUCO will meet targets
GOVERNMENT remains committed to modernising and further developing the sugar industry, and is implementing necessary measures to help the industry overcome its current challenges, including human resources matters.

This is according to Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud, who informed a media conference that a new Board of Directors has been instituted, and has been urged to focus on changing the way of operation, a process that has already begun at various levels.

One of the main areas of consideration is the human resource element, taking into account issues such as frequent industrial actions. A process of dialogue has started between management of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) and the unions that represent the workers to address all the human resources issues affecting operations.

“Human resource issues are dynamic. Management and the unions have been encouraged to work closely and to utilise all the mechanisms at their disposal to ensure that there is a reduction in friction or any cause for industrial action,” Minister Persaud said.

He explained that this is important, since there is a ‘tight-shift’ and any action, whether good or bad, will have a direct impact on the future viability of the sugar industry and the Corporation.

The industry already has to deal with price cuts implemented by the European Union (EU) and it is necessary to ensure that the human resources issues are addressed if Government’s investments and adjustments in the industry are to be successful, Minister Persaud pointed out.

The need for all to put a greater effort forward, from the workers to management, was highlighted; and according to the Minister, there is evidence of changes in this regard and these will continue.

“So while I am concerned, I know that there is a plan of action to address some of those contributory factors and one of the major issues we have to deal with is the culture of management that exists and which must be changed,” he said.

Persaud further expressed optimism that GUYSUCO will meet its targets, although many working days have been lost.

The need to improve attendance and to ensure that the ‘opportunity days’ are fully maximised were highlighted.

The sugar industry contributes between 17 and 18 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and provides employment for more than 30, 000 persons. (GINA)

Saharawi Republic seeks closer ties with Guyana
Ambassador of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) Mohamed Beissat last Monday paid a courtesy call on President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Mr. Beissat who was satisfied with the brief meeting said a letter was also presented to the Head of State in relation to joint relations on behalf of his President. “It was my honour and pleasure to meet His Excellency President Jagdeo of the Republic of Guyana to whom I had the honour to present a letter from my President. The letter is in the framework of our long standing friendship and cooperation that has always existed between my country and the Republic of Guyana,” Ambassador Beissat posited.

The Saharawi is part of the Arab, African and Third World nations, with an independent policy.
The Arab Republic has defined itself in terms of a State as a free, independent, sovereign State governed by a national democratic system, of a unionist orientation, progressive and of Islamic faith.

Message by the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy -to mark
World Diabetes Day
Today is World Diabetes Day. As we observe World Diabetes Day, we do so with the knowledge that globally more people are affected by diabetes than at any time in the global history. Unfortunately, more young people are affected by diabetes. The growing pandemic is more than a cause for concern. The growing pandemic is one that should serve as an impetus for the world to respond in a crisis mode.

Too many people are dying or living with horrendous sicknesses and disabilities because of diabetes-related heart and other cardiovascular diseases, kidney, eye, nerve diseases and other organ diseases. The vast majority of limb amputations in the world are diabetes-related.

In Guyana, more than 8,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. And about 400 persons die each year directly because of diabetes.

While it is true that most of the persons affected by diabetes are above the age of 50, there are growing numbers of young persons and children being diagnosed with diabetes. We estimate that there are about 100 children in Guyana living with diabetes. We have 34 children recorded in the new Ministry of Health’s Register of Persons Living with Diabetes. Across the world the disturbing truth is that more and more young people are being diagnosed and that is why this year World Diabetes Day is focusing on adolescents and young adults.

These unassailable facts must serve to get the population and health care providers to be more vigilant. The truth is that diabetes can be delayed and can be prevented. The truth is that for those persons who would have developed diabetes, care and treatment could prevent diabetes-related complications, such as kidney failure and limb amputations. Early diagnosis is a pre-requisite for proper care and treatment.

But lifestyle choices can significantly impact on diabetes. Overweight and Obesity are major pre-disposing factors for the development of diabetes. Both these conditions are heavily influenced by what, how much and when we eat. But both are also a consequence of inactivity. These are behavioural determinants that can entirely be changed by lifestyle choices. This year, I would like to ask every Guyanese to focus on making some lifestyle changes in order for us to be able to stop diabetes.

Besides nutrition and physical activity, we need to look at other behaviour patterns. We need to stop smoking. We need to consume less alcohol. We need to have our babies breast-fed unless the mother is HIV positive.
We need to eat more fruits and vegetables.
As we observe World Diabetes Day 2007, the Ministry of Health is rolling out several aggressive programmes and over the next several weeks, we are going to highlight many of these programmes.

Please take a moment to learn about diabetes. Take a moment to reflect and see if your behaviour is leaving you vulnerable. Take a moment to visit your health care provider. Let him or her assist you in determining your risk or whether you are diabetic or not.

If you are not, then learn of the things you can do to stop diabetes. If you are diabetic, early diagnosis could lead to quality management that would keep other diseases away.
Let’s unite and fight against diabetes!

Consumers owe GWI $5 billion
THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is lamenting the failure by consumers to pay their bills promptly, particularly the large commercial entities.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GWI said though the company has made significant strides over the years, its achievement could have been greater had consumers been paying their water bills promptly.

He made this pitch yesterday during an awareness workshop geared to improve relations with contractors and enhance the delivery of service to consumers.

“People have been taking the situation for granted; every month-end they pay their electricity bills, phone bills and other bills, but seldom their water bills,” he observed.

Singh said consumers owe the company some $5 B in outstanding bills, noting that 60% of this is from the large commercial entities.

He warned that indebted individuals and organisations ‘will not get off’ and warned that stringent action will be taken to recover outstanding sums.

“If this does not happen, GWI will not be able to deliver its services,” the CEO stressed.

Singh, addressing the contractors, pointed out that the initiative is significant, because it will form the basis for similar meeting with other stakeholders.

He also said the forum will enlighten contractors about criteria governing the award of contracts which has been a long-standing bugbear.

He also called on the small contractors to unite and pursue larger projects rather than work in isolation. On this note, he disclosed that government has earmarked several projects amounting to some $ 3 B to be executed over the next three years. These, he noted, include service repairs, and mending pipe lines.

GWI Deputy Vice-Chairman, Ramesh Dookhoo implored contractors to always deliver their best, since the future of the company is tied to this.

Dookhoo disclosed that the delivery of quality service is the company’s topmost priority, and noted the company has developed a strategic plan to achieve this and other objectives in the next three years.

He said some $ US 50 M has been committed to ensure the success of programme.

Meanwhile, contractor Harry Persaud, speaking on behalf of the contractors, pointed out some of their chief concerns. These include:

*the need for contract documents to be specific;
* delays in payment to contractors;
* and the need to have a fluctuation clause in contracts to ensure proper forecasting.

GT&T representative Berkley Wickham, expressed similar sentiments. He noted that the company is concerned about contractors’ attitude towards work and beseeched them to recognise the importance of quality and striving to complete their projects on time.

The workshop, under the theme ‘Building Partnership in the Private Sector’, was sponsored by Andrew Arts, Giftland Office Max, Harry Persaud, Gafoors and Sons, Toolsie Persaud Limited, Nabi and Sons, Universal Earth Mover and DIGICEL.

The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) yesterday initiated a one-day Contractors’ Awareness workshop at the Le Meridien Pegasus.

Among the objectives of the seminar and attended by officials from the Public Works Ministry, Inter-American Development Bank, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, among others, were:

* demonstrating greater awareness and appreciation for Guyana Water Incorporated’s expectations with regards to contractors’ obligations and adherence to work standards;

* adopting and implementing standard work practices and procedures that consistently reflect a positive image of Guyana Water Incorporated;

*implementing practices and strategies consistent with the occupational health and safety requirements;

*demonstrating greater awareness of procurement practices for more efficient processing of contracts.(Tajeram Mohabir)

NBS fraud trial postponed to December 12
MAGISTRATE Nyasha Williams-Hatmin at the request of Special Prosecutor Hukumchand, yesterday adjourned, to December 12, the application to review the ruling made on the last occasion on the indictable charges against the three former New Building Society (NBS) managers.

In making the successful application, Hukumchand said there are two charges before the court and it was the prosecutor’s intention to withdraw the charges but two of the defendants moved to the High Court where the matter will be heard.

Hukumchand further contended that it is for the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to show cause to restitute the charges made against the defendants to withdraw the case from the Magistrate Court.

Meanwhile, Magistrate Williams-Hatmin said the matter cannot be started until a decision is granted by the High Court.
The matter was put off until December 12, 2007.

GPL gearing for increased power demand
THE Guyana Power and Light is continuing the process of preparing its generation equipment and transmission and distribution networks to accommodate the expected increase in demand for electricity which annually begins to climb in mid –November, a statement from the company said yesterday.

GPL is also apologising to the consuming public for the intermittent power outages customers in both Demerara and Berbice have been experiencing. These outages are a result of systemic and network problems, and not to a shortage of fuel as has been rumoured, the release added.

Citing a total shutdown of the Demerara system at 13:48h on Monday, GPL said it was due to a piece of equipment at the Garden of Eden station that malfunctioned and had a cascading effect that shutdown the 50 and 60 Hertz Wartsila stations and the Sophia converters.

Initial efforts to re-power immediately were not successful. Technicians had to restart the process and the first set of areas was re-powered some 20 minutes later. West Demerara was powered from the Versailles Station up to Best Village since the Garden of Eden incident also affected the submarine link across the Demerara River. The rest of West Demerara was eventually re-powered after 19:00 h last evening, according to the release.

Repairs to the faulty component was to have been effected yesterday and the activity necessitated additional outages in East Demerara.

GPL said it has also been experiencing some slippages with the acquisition of fuel from overseas suppliers, but has assured that adequate amounts of diesel have been sourced locally.

A vessel, due to load Friday in Trinidad is expected here on Monday, which will resolve the situation.

Meanwhile, GPL has also been experiencing difficulties in Berbice with various pieces of generation equipment which have been developing mechanical and electrical problems in recent weeks.

As a result, the availability of electricity in that county fell below demand on several occasions, but GPL said it has been doing everything possible to maintain supply.

The company said it was assured that enough capacity should have been back in the Berbice Interconnected System (BIS) to fully satisfy demand, even in the peak periods, by yesterday.

Exports of agricultural produce to Trinidad soon
GUYANA is likely to export fruits, vegetables and meat, particularly beef, to Trinidad and Tobago in another six to nine months.

This disclosure on the some $ US25 investment was made yesterday when Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud met with a three-member Trinidadian delegation at his office to clarify issues of trade.

The Trinidadian representatives were Chairman of the National Agricultural Marketing and Development Cooperation Dr. Ranjit Singh; Project Coordinator within the Finance Ministry, Mr. Kamal Mankee; and Chief Technical Officer within the Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources Ministry, Mr. Patrick Cambridge.

Persaud said discussions on the concept proposed by Guyana for the joint venture has started and the Trinidadian team has began visits on several farms to examine the health and food safety systems in place.

He added the team will also be visiting the various regions to have a first hand look at the types of agricultural activities and the existing infrastructure to support the development of agro-processing and other agricultural ventures.

Persaud stressed that the export of the some 25 fruits, vegetables and meat will not affect local supplies.

He pointed out several locations have been identified for the venture, namely the Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs and the North West District. Additionally, he said 500 acres of land are being proposed for usage at Hope Estate. In addition, proposals have been made to establish joint ventures with farmers in Pomeroon, Parika, West Watooka, Essequibo Coast, and Crabwood Creek among other areas to cultivate the required fruits and vegetables.

The initiative which started last year was given life during the visit here by Trinidad’s Agriculture Minister Gerret Narine to assess the prospects of minimising his country’s escalating food prices.

Persaud while contending the visit is long overdue, expressed optimism that the project will move from concept to specific proposals and would not only expand local export but to lessen the spiralling cost of agriculture produce there.

“For us it also serves as an additional opportunity for our farmers to diversity, to expand, to get new markets and also the potential for technology and capital coming in from Trinidad and Tobago to help revolutionize our agriculture sector,” he posits.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ranjit Singh noted that Trinidad imports a fair amount of fresh produce from the region and feels the development of a market link with Guyana will be mutually beneficial for both countries. He, however, stressed the importance of quality produce, noting that apart from that private sector initiative, his country is keen on developing trade relations with its CARICOM partners.

Cambridge also delivering remarks, said effort has started to ensure all regulatory procedures are met for the 25 commodities proposed for export by Guyana.
(Tajeram Mohabir

CYC action plan urges greater youth involvement
THE Commonwealth Youth Programme- Caribbean Centre is currently in the process of distributing the Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment 2007-2015 (PAYE) to governments in the Caribbean to make it available in the ministries of youth and other departments, since youth development is critical in every country.

The Regional Director of the Commonwealth Youth Programme- Caribbean Centre Mr. Henry Charles, yesterday formally presented the document to the media . He urged that the document be used because it is not something only for government or young people, but rather it is for everyone who is interested in the development of their country.

The 2007-2015 Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment (PAYE) was developed to engage in advocacy to get governments to implement certain strategies that will allow young people to participate in a more meaningful way in the development of their country. It also goes up to 2015 and is aligned with the Millennium Development Goals.

It was noted by the Programme Manager of the Commonwealth Youth Programme-Caribbean Centre Ms. Dwyneette Eversley that the document is a blue print for governments of the commonwealth to engage young people and civil society in empowerment.

The document was also developed after heads of government saw the need for a programme and a policy for governments, civil society and other development partners to work with a standard frame work. The PAYE is promoting an asset base approach to youth development, recognising the skilled and talented young people for nation building, in their capacity to overcome poverty and contribute to their own development as well as their country’s development.

The Regional Director noted that since the document was endorsed by the heads of government it is expected that when the commonwealth heads of government meet shortly, they will not just further ratified the document but give a mandate to member governments to proceed urgently to implement the provisions in the PAYE.

“The PAYE is a guide as to how governments can get young people more involved and make better use of their energies, creative ideas and talents of young people to push countries forward to development. The more that you involved young people is the more you will see and a lot things will happen in terms of development for that country. Copies of the document will be made for all Caribbean countries, it is a document to be shared,” Mr. Charles exhorted.

It was outlined by Ms. Eversley that PAYE is a framework for Commonwealth action in youth affairs; as such it is a foundational document for the CYP and its ministerial network. However, the PAYE also seeks to stimulate and guide action by other development partners from intergovernmental agencies, non-governmental organisations and organisations formed by young men and women themselves.

The Caribbean Youth Programme (CYP) works to engage and empower young people to enhance their contribution to development. This is being done in partnership with young people, government and other key stakeholders. The CYP, part of the Commonwealth Secretariat is an intergovernmental youth and development agency working primarily with member governments, ministries and departments of youth.
(Nathalene De Freitas).

GLU threatens strike action at NA Councils
WORKERS of the New Amsterdam Town Council have not yet received salaries for October this year and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) which represents of the workers, have threatened strike action.

GLU General Secretary, Carvil Duncan, in a release yesterday said the Council needs to also guarantee payments for the remainder of the year to avoid any strike action.

The union’s ultimatum to the Council comes even as Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Manniram Prashad has pledged his Ministry’s full support for hosting of the New Amsterdam Town Day from November 23 to 26.

Several activities including the grand opening and extravaganza at the New Amsterdam Town Hall, a street fair and a spelling bee competition, are to be staged during the three-day event .

According to the release, in addition to the GLU bringing the matter to the attention of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, it has discovered that some state agencies have greatly contributed to the situation in which the Council finds itself, as they have not been honouring their commitment of paying rates and taxes to the Council.

City Council hampered by $2.5B deficit
THE City Council yesterday said some $3.6 billion is needed annually to provide satisfactory service to citizens but this is hampered as it is faced with a $ 2.5B deficit.

The Council in a release on the current state of its financial affairs added that of the $3.6 billion needed for the provision of acceptable service only $1.6 billion is obtained from collectables.

The release explained that some $1.3 billion is collected annually in rates and taxes while the remaining $300M is garnered from market, building, processing, abattoir, gardens, cemetery and other fees.

Fifteen GFS ranks promoted
THE Guyana Fire Service recently promoted fifteen ranks in the fire service. The ranks were promoted to fill the vacancies created by members who have either resigned or retired during the last two years.

Robin Thomas and Patrick Carmichael were promoted as station officers, Kirklan Harry and Victor Edwards were promoted as sub officers, while Kenroy Taylor, Shannon Crawford, Dwayne Meredith, Troy Gravesande, Desmond Moore, Irvie London, Shawn Peters, Rawle Barrow, Kelwin Yaw and Shevonne Smartt were all promoted as section leaders.
otion of leading firemen was given to Delbert Pitt, Jodie Scipio and Dale Bristol.

UNICEF condemns abuse of children
-all violence against children is preventable
THE United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) last Monday expressed outrage and continued concern at the recent upsurge in violence and abuse, specifically sexual abuse perpetuated against our children.

Following the news of sexual acts allegedly committed on boys of the Ketley Primary School and coming on the heals of the announcement of the death of nine-year-old school girl Sade Stoby, of Mocha on the East Bank of Demerara, who was raped and murdered, Representative of UNICEF Mr. Johannes Wedenig, condemns in the strongest possible terms these horrific assaults, and in general, child abuse cases that now pervades our communities.

Mr. Wedenig referred to a statement made by Minister of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, Ms. Priya Manickchand, just last week when she implored residents of Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) to help in stamping out this scourge, saying that curbing sexual violence is the responsibility of every one. He said it is now time for us all to realise that sexual violence is everybody’s business, especially since recent reports have revealed that most of the acts of sexual violence are committed by persons close to children whom they trust. This is what makes it even more appalling and challenging.

The UNICEF Representative said more needs to be done to combat this rising epidemic and referred to the UN Secretary General’s Global Study on Violence Against Children, launched in November 2005 which states that, “eliminating and responding to violence against children is perhaps most challenging in the context of the family, considered by most as the most ‘private’ of private spheres.” Further, studies have also shown that children who have experienced violence are more likely to perpetuate violence in their adult life.

According to Wedenig the follow-up report to the UN Secretary-General’s Global Study on Violence against Children recently made public, marks a turning point in the multidimensional response on violence against children and looks at bringing an end to adult justification of violence against children. “There can be no compromise in challenging violence, no violence against children is justifiable, and all violence against children is preventable,” he emphasised.

We know that sexual abuse worldwide is under reported, and Guyana is no exception, and so the cases reported here may very well be just the tip of the ice-burg. Nevertheless, in a recent survey of Caribbean school children, about 11% girls and 9% children reported that they had been sexually abused including through incest. 40% of the girls surveyed reported their first sexual initiation was forced.

“We have to view this as a call to action for all of us, everyone - the Government, the private sector, NGOs, civil society and religious organisations, all citizens of Guyana - we have to ensure appropriate actions, systems and strategies are in place for our children to be protected. Not one more child should have to face such horrendous circumstances at the hands of inhuman perpetrators, not one more parent should have to mourn the premature passing of a child under such gruesome circumstances, if we all heed a call to action to help in providing an enabling society in which our children can live and grow to reach their full potential,” he said.

In this regard UNICEF recognises and fully supports the Government of Guyana and other partners in their efforts to protect children. Further UNICEF commends the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security on the recent launch of the ‘Stamp It Out’ consultation paper which outlines a number of initiatives aimed at strengthening protection against sexual violence and reform the law on sexual offences. In this process we cannot over emphasise the critical role of law enforcement officers in dealing professionally with very sensitive cases of abuse and our Judicial system in ensuring speedy processes in a child friendly environment.

A signatory to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, The Government of Guyana has agreed to assume responsibility of protecting children from violence and ensuring that they grow up in a protective environment. The greatest challenge at this point, however, is to have a collective and sustained approach by all sectors of society in transforming our communities into safe environments, conducive to holistic growth and development of young people.

UNICEF reiterates its commitment to working alongside Government and other organisations. We believe that it remains necessary to create a culture of prevention of all forms of child abuse, to mobilise public response, galvanise civil society, parents, guardians and children themselves to be unequivocal in their condemnation of violence and child abuse and step up work to disseminate prevention programmes.

We express sincere condolences to the family of Sade Stoby and all other families and children who have suffered the consequences of violence in all its forms.

Motorist on eleven charges for traffic breaches
A motorist who faces eleven charges for traffic breaches was allowed $50, 000 bail by Principal Magistrate Krishendat Persaud.

Brian Bakker of Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje denied the charges following his appearance in the New Amsterdam Court yesterday.

Bakker faces charges of being an unlicensed driver, having an unlicensed, uninsured and uncertified motor vehicle. In addition the defendant allegedly failed to exhibit his revenue licence among other charges.

Police Inspector Fazil Karimbaskh, prosecuting , told the Magistrate that the offences were committed on November 4, last while traffic cop Gavin Holder was executing his duties on Strand Public Road , in New Amsterdam .

Bakker, who was unrepresented is claiming that he was a victim of police harassment.
The matter will be recalled on November 19.

STANDARDS CORNER
GUIDELINES FOR PURCHASING PAINTS
In recent years, the Guyana National Bureau of standards has developed three important standard requirements for paints imported or manufactured for use in Guyana. These standards include: Specification for Paint: Interior and exterior, emulsion type, flat, Specification for Paint: Emulsion type, Interior and exterior low, Sheen and Semi-gloss, and Specification for the limit on lead content for paints.

The GNBS has been monitoring paints under its Standards Compliance programme to ensure that the commodity complies with labelling and quality requirements.

Consumers are you planning on painting in time for the Holidays? If so, here are some tips to help you select the right paint for the job.
When Purchasing Paints ensure that:

*The Paint is suitable for the surface to be painted i.e. concrete, wood, metal ceiling and indoor or outdoor use.

*The Paint is adequately labelled. Labels should state the:

- Manufacturer’s name and address.

- Date of manufacture and batch number.

- Thinning instructions

- Colour

- Type of paint

- Drying time

- Precautions/warning statements. Example: “Contains 11% lead” or “May be fatal if swallowed.”

NB. Labels must be written in English Language.

The containers in which the paint is stored should not show signs of deterioration or rust.

* The paint is the right type that will give you the finish that you want. Example, flat or glossy.

For further information on this subject, contact the Guyana National Bureau of Standards on telephone numbers 2225-6226, 227-7890 or 227-7072.

The consumer hotline number is: 227-7889.
RNCF awards 22 scholarships
THE Radio’s Needy Children’s Fund (RNCF) last Monday awarded scholarships to the following 22 children for the academic year 2007/2008 under its annual scholarship programme.

Region Name of Students	School Attended
1 MORTON U. DANIEL	SHOTOQUAL PRIMARY
1 JACQUELINE JAMES	HOSORORO PRIMARY
2 OCELISA MARKS	TAYMOUTH MANOR PRIMARY
2 GOMATTIE RAMSAMOOJ	FISHER PRIMARY
3 WHITNEY LaCRUZ	SARASWAT PRIMARY
3 MELISSA PERSAUD	LEONORA PRIMARY
4 KELLY MOHAN	LUSIGNAN PRIMARY SCHOOL
4 SHABANA SINGH	LANCASTER PRIMARY
5 DARSHANIE CHUNIRAM	NOVAR PRIMARY
5 BEATRICE PETERS	ITACA PRIMARY
6 TROYSON PARK	ST. THERESE’S PRIMARY
6 KEVIN HAZEL	ROSEHALL PRIMARY
7 LISA WILLIAMS	MAKOURIA PRIMARY
7 JOSEPH FITZPATRICK	ST JOHN-THE-BAPTIST
8 ONECIA COOPER	MAHDIA PRIMARY
8 SHENIKA BOWEN	MICOBIA PRIMARY
9 ANDREW GREEN	TIPURU PRIMARY
9 AZALEA JACOBUS	ARANAPUTA PRIMARY
10 STANRICK FORSYTHE	CHRISTIANBURG PRIMARY
10 OSLYN GEORGE	AMELIA’S WARD PRIMARY
G/T EON BLAIR	WINFER GARDEN PRIMARY
G/T ROXROY BOSTON	WINFER GARDEN PRIMARY

In a simple ceremony held at the Studios of NCN Inc. on Homestretch Avenue the members of the committee presented the awards to 10 students who were present.

The chairman of the Radio’s Needy Children’s Fund, Mr. Mohamed Sattaur said that RNCF has traditionally awarded one scholarship per region to needy children who would not have been able to continue their studies because of financial constraints. The amount awarded is intended to cover the cost of books and tools necessary for their schooling.

For the past 2 years the Radio’s Needy Children’s Fund has awarded this scholarship to 22 students spread across the 10 Administrative Regions of Guyana annually.

The treasurer, Mrs. Lewis, spoke about the work of the Radio’s Needy Children’s Fund which started 53 years ago. She appealed for continued assistance by way of donations and support for fund raising activities as the work of the committee can be expanded if the levels of donations are increased. She also said that with stronger support it may be possible to extend the scholarship program to more than 22 students.

In the closing remarks, member Rakhee Dharmo reminded the public of the RNCF annual fund raising dinner; coming up on November 25, 2007 at the Le Meridian Pegasus. She said that tickets are available from the RNCF desk at NCN. She also stated that RNCF will be hosting Children’s Christmas Parties throughout Guyana in the month of December and appealed to the public to support the ongoing toy drive for these parties. She noted that toys for this worthy cause can be donated by visiting the RNCF desk at Homestretch Avenue.

Invest in agriculture
President Jagdeo hit the nail on its head last Monday when he urged bankers to invest in transnational agricultural companies through partnerships.

Indeed for too long agricultural development in the region has been neglected resulting in the unnecessary importation, in many cases, of inferior quality foodstuff, which could be produced here and of a superior quality as well.

The President correctly observed that with the Caribbean’s food import bill at US$1.5B, it presents many opportunities for investment in countries like Guyana with land ready for investment, adding that for banks to stay alive in the face of challenges such as acquisitions and world crises, improved lending to micro, small and medium enterprises is needed, along with partnerships.

“Be prepared to form partnerships…you will not succeed if you don’t,” he cautioned.
For too long the Caribbean people have allowed foreign tastes to dictate their dietary habits-much to the detriment of their health and the region’s economic fortunes. However, the people alone cannot be faulted for this unfortunate situation as the region failed to implement sound economic policies and programmes which would have produced cheap, high quality and abundant food supplies. Had this been done surely the excuse by people for a foreign preference that because of the unavailability cheap and abundant local supplies they are forced to resort to foreign food items.

Guyana, in particular has the potential to become the bread basket of CARICOM, which it was during the boom in agricultural production in the early 1960s which the opening up of large agricultural schemes such as the Black Polder and Tapacuma schemes.

This country has two of the major resources for agricultural development and expansion-abundant land and water.

Therefore, those who seek partnership and investment in agriculture Guyana is the place to go, and already there s growing interest with Trinidadian and Surinamese entrepreneurs prospecting in various agricultural options.

One of the weak links of the local agro-processing industry is the lack of a canning industry and culture.

In times of glut large volumes of fruits and vegetables perish because they cannot find markets. The logical step is to establish canneries in all the major farming communities, as this will not only reduce losses but will lay a solid base for exports of fruits and vegetables to those Caribbean countries with a thriving tourist industry as well as that of North America and Europe.

Local farmers also will be encouraged to produce more because then the fear of their produce perishing will be eliminated.

What has been encouraging is that under the Jagdeo Initiative there has been a renewed consciousness of the importance of agriculture in the region and all opportunities must be utilised to keep the momentum alive.

The world will not wait for us. We have to become proactive and innovative and we have to do it fast, bearing in mind the global escalation of food prices which is adversely affecting the people of this region, particularly the poor.

There can be no room for complacency or sloth. Agriculture is all about production of food which is vital for both health and survival.

Whispering mabel
Mabel has received disturbing reports on various instances which amount to crass ignorance on the perfect principle of following the dictum of “functional superiority,” routine discipline suffers when this attitude is permitted to prevail, which in turn produces inefficiency. Too often is it heard in official everyday dialogue, “that I am not responsible to you, I report directly to the President, he is my boss.” Well the boss must know that it is some of his most senior functionaries that are guilty of this bigotry.

These public servants with this attitude are simply too full of themselves and are obviously suffering from ‘delusions of grandeur’ precipitated by the flight to egotism.

Mabel is being urged to make immediate appeals for the dismissal of these pathetic inflicted functionaries who on closer examination are unsuited to perform any type of managerial or positions of too echelon responsibility. Their incompetence only aggravates the consideration for termination of their services.

There is a terrible malaise about the lack of courtesy together with a lackadaisical approach towards stratifying the needs of the public, who expects to be attended to expeditiously by those workers who are placed in position of executing basic functions to relieve the concern of overcoming unnecessary delays in concluding their business. It is therefore nauseating to experience workers indulging in personal dialogue simultaneously with the effort of attending to members of the public. This is a common occurrence that alarmingly appears not to register on the consciousness of these functionaries. It is simply a typical example of how ill-prepared they are to serve the public. Mabel still believes that in time the question of desirable work ethics will have to be cultivated as a matter of urgency to satisfy the expectations of the populace and which will be demanding nothing less. But whose responsibility will it be to get the bell moving on this necessity?

African Guyanese poor and powerless are facing a war against the government, so says Tacuma Ogunseye. What a preposterous accusation! The political party forming the government has been from beginning to end always a working class movement and cannot be guilty of practicing such a divisive and racial policy. Mabel feels that in promoting such an absurd belief, Ogunseye is in fact strengthening a lie and thereby creating the basis for the justification of the arming of African Guyanese; quite dangerous and racist.

Except for the Deputy Leader who had begun to make his contribution of the government’s motion of appreciation for all those persons who were responsible for prosecuting Guyana’s case before the United Nations Law of the Sea Tribunal, there was a moment of complete silence in a display of unmistakable awe on both sides of the House. It was involuntary reaction to the tone, manner, unpatriotic, vulgar verbal attack on the government; it was most definitely out of place and undignified, which astounded everyone present in the hallowed chambers of Parliament. It will remain as a moment of shame and haunt the sensibility of the Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan, Deputy Leader of the AFC.

30 kilos of ganja unearthed at Vriesland
A man is to be charged in connection with a 30-kilogramme marijuana find at Vriesland, West Bank Demerara last Monday.
A release from the police said the illicit drug was unearthed in a tarpaulin among some bushes during a search at around 13:00 hours.

GDF manslaughter case ends today
-Prosecutor uses shooting demonstration to convince jury
STATE Prosecutor Mrs. Melissa Yearwood-Stewart in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Buxton manslaughter case carried out a shooting demonstration with the AK-47 which allegedly caused the death of Oneal Rollins to retort the submission by the Defence that the GDF soldier was shot accidentally by accused soldier Mark Fraser.

Earlier, Defence Counsel Kamal Ramkarran through a demonstration pulled the trigger with the left small finger to counter the Prosecution’s case which alleged that it would take at least five pounds of pressure to pull the trigger in order to fire off the weapon.

This, the Defence is arguing has shown clearly that the weapon could be triggered with very little applied pressure.

But in reply, the Prosecutor cocked the weapon and made several pulls on the trigger without the weapon firing.

It was only when she pulled the trigger with force that it went off, the prosecutor explained, as she told the jury, “that is how the victim met his death”.

The Prosecution urged the jury to find that on October 26, 2002, the accused recklessly shot the victim and was therefore guilty of manslaughter – unlawful killing of Oneal Rollins at Camp Buxton, East Coast, Demerara.

But trial Judge, Justice Winston Patterson who will addressed the jury on the evidence and the law, requested the mixed jury to keep an open mind until they have heard his summing-up and the matter is handed over to them for their consideration and verdict.

The accused Mark Fraser who has claimed that the gun went off accidentally, killing his good friend Oneal Rollins, who was in the process of handing back his weapon to him, will know his fate today.

McLean on attempted robbery of bank teller
TWENTY-SIX-YEAR-OLD, Terrence Mc Lean of Lot 180 Charlotte Street, Georgetown yesterday appeared before Magistrate Oneidge Waldron-Allicock for attempting to rob an employee of Citizen’s Bank.

Particulars of the charge to which the defendant pleaded not guilty said, on November 8 at Citizen’s Bank armed with a gun, he attempted to rob a teller while on duty.

The Court was told that the defendant suffers from mental dissolution and was examined by Dr. Frank Beckles. It was further alleged that on the day in question, the defendant did not consume his medication.

More so, there were no allegations of any weapon involved.
Meanwhile, Police Inspector Hugh Winter, prosecuting, said the defendant went to the teller and indicated he had a gun in his possession. He then used the opportunity to demand a sum of one-million dollar.
Mc Lean was granted $150,000 bail and will return to Court on December 19.

Siblings remanded on charge with intent to murder
TWO brothers Rickey, 34, and David Mohan, 35, of Lot ‘C’ 14 Railway Line, Lamaha Embankment, were yesterday remanded to prison charged with intent to murder.

Particulars of the charge said, on November 6 at Georgetown the two defendants with intent to commit murder wounded Daneshwar Geer.

Magistrate Oneidge Waldron-Allicock upheld an objection to bail for the duo, after Police Inspector Hugh Winter, prosecuting, said the virtual complainant (VC) is presently hospitalised and underwent surgery due to the seriousness of the wound inflicted.

He added that the VC is expected to undergo another surgery tomorrow as a result of continuous bleeding in the right eye. He also stated that the VC sustained head injuries during the ordeal.

However, Defence Counsel Euclin Gomes told the Court the VC has no problem with the duo. He claimed that they had a problem stemming from a birthday celebration which later resulted in a fight.

The Defence Counsel added that a neighbour who tried to intervene was accidentally hit. He also stated that police who visited the VC said he is recovering.

The duo were refused bail and remanded to prison until November 23.

Man charged with robbery under arms refused bail
MAGISTRATE Hazel Octave-Hamilton yesterday refused bail to Gregory St. John of Lot 22 Ruimveldt Public Road, who was charged with robbery under arms.

The accused who was not required to plea, armed with a gun robbed Randolph Barry on November 5 of one BMX bicycle valued $7000, one Motorola cellular phone valued 10,000 and one Casio wrist watch valued $5000. The total value of the articles amounted to $22,000.
The accused was incarcerated until November 30.

Non-violence the only way forward
WITH absolutely no doubt and with 100% certainty, there would be hordes of writers descending on me after they read this. I can understand why and I sympathise with them.

Almost forever, I have been observing nations and especially political leaders commemorating the wars that passed. They celebrate Remembrance Day to honour the fallen soldiers from previous wars.
The more things change the more they remain the same.

From time immemorial, we humans have been known to be at war under one pretext or another. We want power over our neighbours or we want their wealth; we feel threatened by their progress or that they will destroy or dominate our culture or religion or racial group.

In the mid-twentieth century, soles, such as Mahatma Gandhi, showed us that violence is not necessarily the only means to an end. Others, like Martin Luther King, believed enough in the power of non-violence to be able to demonstrate again and again that mankind can accomplish great things if we move away from our uncivilised, animalistic tendency and resolve problems through dialogue.

Ironically, over the ages, most of these men died at the hands of the violent. It even looked like a foregone conclusion that non-violence is just a mirage and that those with the preference for violence or with the largest military power will, without any argument, always “get their way”.

These ceremonies, recognising the “ultimate sacrifice that soldiers pay for our freedom”, again reinforce that concept that violence is THE WAY.

For my part, I will continue to believe that human beings have the power to graduate to a level where compassion, truth, honesty and other positive attributes are the only tools available to us to resolve differences. One only needs to look around at the amazing things we can create to begin to understand the immense power within us. I find it most awesome that our brain can actually study itself and devise ways to repair itself when it detects the need. If we have come this far in our capacity to think and do, why are we still bent on resorting to the old way - the violent way - to resolve our issues?

It is in these times of saluting our fallen soldiers that I begin again to lose faith in our specie. I find it so embarrassing to want to even remember that we participated in such an immature thing as a war against other human beings. Are we content to annually salute the dead? Are we satisfied with using our immense brain power just to continue to develop more ingenious ways to destroy those who we think threaten us?

When was the last time we took the time to celebrate one of the many marvellous achievements that made our world a happier, safer and tolerant place?

I say that all those who participate in the celebrating occasions like Remembrance Day are plain losers.
RN

Not surprised at Ms. Harris’s reaction
IT should come as no surprise that Bonita Harris is decrying initiatives to cleanse Buxton of criminals. Criminal sympathisers must hurt when criminals go down. I wonder whether a source of benefit is cut off when this happens.

I must ask Ms. Harris though: Can the survivors of victims of those killed by Buxton gunmen get redress from relatives and beneficiaries of the gunmen?

I wish to comment, also, on the strike by drivers in Berbice against ‘new fines’. The laws of this country are breached on the roads more than any other place. I argue strongly that if we curb indiscipline on the road, we will curb indiscipline in Guyana. Those who are protesting should know that the ticket fine for bad parking in Canada is C$175:- the Guyana equivalent of $37,450:-

So, drivers, when you get your visa to the USA or Canada, try to protest against the fines there!
Press on, Minister of Home Affairs and commissioner of Police! The Law must once again prevail.
FREDERICK A. SMITH

Honest assessment of PNC/R at last
AT last we have an honest assessment of the PNC/R. Many people knew from the start what this party truly represents; though Mr. Rickford Burke would have you think the many characteristics he describes in his letter are all recent occurrences (The PNC is on the brink of irrelevance. . . SN. Sunday, November 11th 2007).

It seems Mr. Burke has only now come around to understanding how a vast majority of Guyanese always felt about the PNC/R.

Burke admits that the PNC/R has no vision to offer as an alternative government and he describes the party as a catastrophic failure. Among the words this PNC stalwart uses to describe his own party are: diminished, misconceived and mediocre, a state of disintegration, and impotent and irrelevant.

With such an abysmal reputation, even among its own, why does the party still blame racial politics every time it looses an election?

Isn’t it the truth that smart people will not vote PNC/R for exactly the reasons so clearly laid out by Mr. Burke?
JUSTIN De FREITAS.

Red Thread was not among main stakeholders
IN the Kaieteur newspaper dated Sunday, November 11, 2007, we read the article captioned, ‘AFC seeks alliance in renewed attempt to address VAT issues’. The article reported Mr. Raphael Trotman mentioned as saying that he had written a letter to the main stake holders in the struggle and copied it to the Head of State.

We noticed – at first with some concern - that Red Thread was not among the main stakeholders on Mr. Trotman’s list but thought that maybe he was just naming a few from the top of his head. For Red Thread not to be one of the several organisations on the top of his head in relation to this issue, was hard enough to understand but still we went back to our centre to see whether we had received any letter from Mr. Trotman and found that there was none. This carried us past concern to rage.

Red Thread and Red Thread network of more than forty grassroots women from Region 10: Silvertown, Half Mile, Canvas City and Wisroc, Region 9: Annai, Surama and Rupertee, Region 8: Central Mahdia, Campbelltown, and Princeville, Region 5: # 41 Village West Coast Berbice and Bush Lot, Region 4: Georgetown, Annandale, Courabane Park and Sophia and Region 3: Uitvlugt, have raised concerns about VAT in 2006 (our first being October 13, 2006 ) even before it was implemented and have been monitoring VAT ever since its implementation. We wrote over ten (10) letters on VAT in the newspaper, some directed to the President, some directed to Mr. Sattaur and the Minister of Finance. We came into a fleet of abuse from Mr. Sattaur in the Chronicle newspapers on January 16, 2007 and in Stabroek newspapers on January 17, 2007 where he accused us of being biased but that didn’t stop us. We continued to raise our concerns, presenting the facts of the situation based on our own experiences, that of the other poor people from the various communities in which we have been doing our monitoring and from other people with whom we came into contact on the road and else where. We organised a picket outside of the GRA Office at Charlotte and Albert Sts and we supported the march organised by Mr. C N Sharma, Leader of the Justice for all Party. Wasn’t Mr. Trotman aware of any of this?

It may be possible Mr. Trotman that you haven’t been following the News but it is hardly possible for you not to be aware of any of this work that we have been doing for more than 8 months, when on March 22, 2007, we publicly launched our Good Governance Campaign and sent two (2) letters to your Party informing you of our campaign. We further sent you a draft report card which includes the issue of VAT for your organisation to fill in the work you have done in relation to this issue, but got no response on either occasion . As far as we know we are the ones who have given more voice on this issue than the whole of your list but yet we are not considered one of the main stake holders. AMAZING!

Poor people are the ones who are suffering the most under VAT but yet the poor are not considered the main Stake holders. SHAMEFUL! How can your effort be collective or successful Mr. Trotman, when the people affected the most and those who did the bulk of the work on this issue are not considered main stake holders?

It seems to us that Mr. Trotman is one of the old time politicians who believe that political parties and trade unions are the only institutions that are important. And secondly, we believe that the fact that Red Thread being both female and grassroots, might be the only reason why our work seems invisible or unimportant to Mr. Trotman.

In our view for your effort to be effective and successful, you have to start from the bottom up.
NICOLA MARCUS
HALIMA KHAN
WINTRESS WHITE

New twist to Abraham’s death
DURING the last two months I have read various articles on Mr. Abraham and the circumstances surrounding his death.

Frederick Kissoon in his KN column had initiated this discussion on this dark and sad part of our history. He blamed the PPP without providing any evidence, except for his own opinion. Mrs. Jagan then wrote an article in the Mirror about the goodness of Mr. Abraham.

Subsequently, Mr. Green, Mr. Ramoutar and Mr. Kissoon again have written on the subject.

I wish to add another twist to the story. One day in the eighties I met someone who mentioned to me that he knew of the event of June 12th, 1964. He stated that it was neither the PPP nor the PNC. Now, this man could have been speaking to impress.

However, I felt there was some credence to his uttering.

My recollection of the sixties is that it was the United Force which was initially at the forefront of organising and financing the violence.

Mr. Kissoon blamed the PPP because Mr. Abraham was a UF supporter; but, Mr. Kissoon should know that occasionally actions are taken not because of who you support, but to lay blame on others.

My advice to those who are trying to write or rewrite history is not to let bitterness affect your conclusions. Also, history is important, but ordinary working class people are mostly affected by their experiences. Mr. Ramoutar is right in saying that the PNC is demonised by its own history.

That history was not read, it was experienced.

My wish is that any history to be written should be of a prosperous, peaceful Guyana where people minds were free, where wealth and decent jobs were created, where our main exports were manufactured goods and other resources (other than human), where the newspapers were worthy of reading, where there was professionalism, where people admired the decency and vision of the leaders and where there was no bitterness.
D. DEONARINE
Toronto, Canada

‘Stamp it out’ consultations a wise move
I am writing in the light of the present countrywide consultation on the sexual violence Paper ‘Stamp it out’. This is a bold move by the Government to minimise sexual violence in our society, provide support for victims and prosecute offenders.

I have been following the news and I am happy to see that the Paper is being consolidated among the public so that persons in the society themselves can lend a voice to amend the laws.

Indeed, as a young girl I am thankful for this intervention because sexual violence is prevalent among young children both male and female and the law does not allow offenders to be prosecuted for the dreadful crimes they committed.

I am in full support of this Consultation Paper and I hope others recognise the urgent attention that is needed to help our society move forward.
MANDY BADAL

VAT not responsible for rising food prices
PEOPLE continue to complain about the price for some commodities on the local market including powdered milk, onion, garlic, potato and cooking gas and the Value Added Tax is being blamed for these price changes.

It is easy to lay blame, especially when persons are not aware of the facts and others are using this to mislead the people to satisfy a more sinister agenda. In all fairness to the general public, the prices for these commodities have indeed risen steeply and it seems that there will be no relief.

However, the situation is that these commodities have attracted increased prices as a result of the increase in fuel prices on the world market and other exogenous factors. Many of the items cited as having price increases are non-VAT items and people claim that the price for these items had doubled in most cases. Being realistic, the Value Added Tax is being implemented at a rate of 16 percent, so any price increase would be at 16 percent, not more.

Guyana does not produce some items and most of the items attracting the price changes are imported from other countries and due to the higher cost of transportation it has influenced the cost of the goods when they become available on the market.

Persons should perhaps do some independent research and get the facts on the price increases instead of using VAT as the scapegoat.
JENNIFER JUPITER

Case of fox and the grapes
FIRST it was power sharing and because government did not agree to that the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) is now saying that Guyana is heading toward a dictatorship. This is a simple case of the fox and the grapes. The PNC/R is trying to pull wool over the eyes of the Guyanese people by pretending to care about Guyana and its future when in fact all it wants is to get into power and it will try any strategy possible to achieve this.

The reality in Guyana is very different from the picture the PNC/R is trying to paint and Guyanese can attest to this. In every sphere of activity, this Government involves the people in the decision making process by taking their views into consideration before projects and policies are implemented.

Nothing is ever forced on this nation because its citizens have an equal say before programmes and policies are concretised. Guyana has truly seen development in recent years and many things which Guyanese would not have dreamt of have come to pass. I don’t think there has ever been such inclusiveness in the history of Guyana where the Government allows for active involvement and participation of the political parties and the public in every area of proposed development.

Guyana has truly evolved and is rapidly developing to join the rest of the world and we should recognise this for what it is and congratulate the Government for effectively managing the economy and for bringing such vision and vigour.

Had this indeed been a dictatorial Government, the international agencies and organisations here would have been the first to frown on this approach since they do not by any standard condone dictatorships. Guyana has been continually benefiting from assistance in the form of grants and aids from other developed countries and this is continuing. Today Guyana has been given a significant amount of debt write offs which have ensured that the Government has more money to spend internally. Were we heading towards a dictatorship no one would be willing to extend a willing hand much a hand filled with money.

I think that the PNCR needs to wake up and smell the coffee because no longer will Guyanese be cowards and suck up the lies that are fed to them. We are an intelligent people and can form our own opinions.
MARTIN BENN

Strange increase in sexual violence
I find it strange that with the ongoing consultations, with regards to strengthening protection for victims of sexual violence in our society (Stamp It Out), there seems to be an increase in the prevalence of those crimes.

Two weeks ago a nine-year old from Mocha was sexually assaulted and murdered, last week three boys aged 7 years from a City school were sexually assaulted by a vendor in a van parked by the school, there is now the report of a boy being molested in a church at Goedverwagting.

I would hope that these reports are not an indication of an increase in the crimes in our society but rather the willingness by more persons to report these incidents with the end result being that criminals are made to pay for their crimes.

The implementation of the ‘Stamp It Out’ campaign therefore has begun to bear fruit. It is left now for the new laws to be formulated and implemented so that there will be added protection for victims and stiffer penalties for perpetrators.

I call on all Guyanese and Members of Parliament from both sides of the House to support this Bill when it goes to Parliament and have these new laws in place quickly.
EDWARD SIMON

PNC/R at its best again
THE PNC/R is at its best again. They seem to make it a habit of mixing part of the truth with lies to create mischief in our society. Their programme is bringing more discredit to them than doing them good.

On last Sunday’s Nation Watch, it was stated by Mr. Norton that during the ethnic Relations Commission study, the PSM and the Office Of the President refused to give information on ethnicity as it relates to employment and issuing of scholarships.

What in fact, the study found was that there was no information available with regard to ethnicity of persons employed or granted scholarships. This was so because there was no request for that information by the agencies. This was stated quite clearly by the ERC after the studies were completed.

An examination of application for employment forms for most companies will indicate no call for you to state your ethnicity. For us as a nation to go back to requiring persons to state their ethnicity for everything I think would be a step backward for us.

What really do they (PNC/R) intend to do? Have a quota system for offering scholarships and jobs by race? What will happen to the nine percent of Guyanese who cannot associate with any one ethnic group? Are they saying that all people of a particular ethnic group support them or the Government? Would that not also lead to reverse discrimination?

I think sometime Mr. Norton and company should shut up if there is nothing for them to say. They just keep discrediting themselves.
ALBERT JACOBS

Impressed with emphasis on East Berbice
I am very impressed with the emphasis being placed on East Berbice and particularly rehabilitation of the region’s main highway.

When the New Amsterdam/Moleson Creek road project was outlined several years before, many residents thought it was just talk because of the massive amount of resources needed to undertake those works.

But, now, all residents are quite pleased with re-construction of the roadway and we are eagerly looking forward to rehabilitation of the remaining section from Number 35 Village and beyond. We hope that these works will start soon.

When this project is completed, and the Berbice Bridge is ready, East Berbicians will be able to travel from as far as Crabwood Creek straight to Georgetown without any hassle.

This is surely fulfillment of a promise to enhance transport access and communication in Guyana and more particularly in East Berbice.
A. WONG

Creighton has no authority to speak on behalf of UG
THE former Deputy Vice chancellor Mr. Al Creighton stated on Capitol News that the public was misinformed and that the Deans had completed the profiles of the potential graduands for the 2007 Convocation. What does completion mean? Does it mean that the profiles are approved? If they are not approved, how then can Creighton say that Deans have ‘completed’ the review of student profiles?

Well, if that were the case, then Mr. Creighton should explain why this year’s Convocation was postponed, and to date we have yet to hear or receive any word as to when the Convocation will be held.
The postponement of the Convocation should not have occurred in the first place.

The postponement of the Convocation sends a clear signal to the present students at the University of Guyana, and the potential graduands that their interest is not the primary one for the Deans. That is a sad scenario that is happening at UG and the finger must be pointed at the Deans.

There has been no public apology or reasonable explanation from the Deans as to why the Convocation was postponed. What is the locus standi of Al Creighton to issue such remarks?
KIMBERLY JAMES

Postponing convocation weakens UG’s credibility
THE University of Guyana’s status as an institute of higher learning is slowly if not rapidly losing its credibility. It is unimaginable and inconceivable that the University’s Convocation was delayed.

This will only damage the University’s integrity on the national and international stage.

Refusal by the Deans to facilitate the conversion of the Academic Board to a Board of Examiners to approve and finalise the students’ profiles for graduation, is selfish and self-centred.

Have they forgotten that their duties and obligations are to the students first and foremost. Sure, they may have issues with the Council, but those issues are separate and have nothing to do with their refusal to meet as an Academic Board to review the students’ profiles. Both the Academic Board and the University Council can discuss the ‘issues’ after the Convocation would have become a reality.
DWAYNE NARINE

Stabroek news lies about money laundering law
STABROEK News has once again violated the code of conduct in journalism by propagating a distortion of enormous proportions in its editorial dated November 12, 2007.

The gross dishonesty by the Stabroek News, claimed that the Government was
“dragging its foot” or stalling the Amendment to the Money Laundering Prevention Act.

But it is not surprising that Stabroek News forgot to include a very important and significant fact, and that is, the Money Laundering Prevention Act was sent to a Special Select Committee to further review and evaluate this Act. This Committee includes members of the Opposition and Government.

This very crucial omission by the Stabroek News shows the deceitfulness and willingness to spread distortions.
ALICIA MARTIN