Georgetown, Guyana – (January 19, 2018) President David Granger, along with members of  Cabinet, today, met with the President and members of the Guyana Agricultural and Workers’ Union (GAWU) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) at the Ministry of the Presidency to discuss the future of the sugar industry. After more than two hours of discussions, the parties were able to find common ground and the Unions agreed to fully cooperate with the Government to find a solution, which can benefit all stakeholders.

President Granger, who addressed members of the Union said that this is the start of talks between the two sides so that an agreement can be reached at the earliest possible time. The Head of State noted that this is the time for all stakeholders to come together, putting aside all prejudices and partisan interests and work for the national good.

“This is a national matter. It is not a partisan one. It involves human beings, households and families. We are conscious of the foresighted nature and we cannot ignore the context of the issue that we face. We cannot continue something that is not competitive. We are bailing out the industry at $1B per month and that is simply not sustainable. If workers have to go home then we all lose, as it will have an impact on the economic growth of the country. Government will not win, the Unions will not win and the workers will not win if the industry is crippled. We will all lose. Nobody is against the sugar industry. The Government and the Unions should engage until the issue is resolved. Let us use this opportunity to show flexibility and ensure that livelihoods are saved,” the President said.

The President noted that while there may be a difference of opinion during the discussions, he does not believe in walkouts or refusals to cooperate and it is up to both the Government and the Unions to ensure that they work together to formalise a solution, which will positively impact the lives of the workers.

Severance

During the meeting, Minister of Finance, Mr. Winston Jordan, said that the Government is currently exploring the option of paying the full severance for the workers who are owed $400,000 and below by the end of the month. Approximately 46 percent of the workers affected stand to benefit from this arrangement while the remaining 54 percent of workers will be paid 50 percent of their severance by the end of the month and the other 50 percent by the second half of the year.

Minister Jordan said that the Government is taking measures to reduce its debt and redouble its efforts to increase revenues so that they can source the money to pay the outstanding sums.

Micro Financing and Skills training

Meanwhile, Minister of Social Protection, Ms. Amna Ally, said that the Ministry is deeply concerned with the realities of the current situation facing the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the affected workers and as such, stands ready to provide any assistance that it can.

In this regard, she noted that the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) as well as the Port Mourant Training Centre will be utilised to train and upgrade the skills of the workers. Additionally, she noted that the service of the Micro Credit Unit at the Ministry is available to lend assistance, as there are micro-financing available for start-up projects.

“We are cognisant that many workers will now have to explore the idea of entering a new realm of employment and already we have given great consideration in a number of areas to go forward. The public health facilities in various locations will still be of service to persons working in those areas. The Board of Industrial Training has been conducting trainings in several areas such as engineering, building and masonry, carpentry, information and communication technology, forestry, home economics and health services. This certainly will provide opportunities for alternative skills by equipping persons with the necessary knowledge, skills and training relevant for employment. These types of training will be continuous. In addition to that, we will collaborate with the Ministry of Natural Resources to provide additional training opportunities with an oil and gas focus and the Port Mourant Training Centre will be utilised for this purpose,” she said.

Minister Ally also echoed sentiments shared by the President, noting that this is not the time to politicise the issue but rather, for the Unions and Government to work together.

Head of GAWU, Mr. Komal Chand, in his remarks, said that he is pleased with the outcome of the meeting, as he noted that the Union is now committed to working with the administration to draft feasible solutions.

“We have listened and we are satisfied that you are concerned with the issues. We are ready to work along with the Government to explore the options and we are going to give our best to see the situation out. You are right that there are no winners in this and we are willing… We are certainly pleased with this meeting. This is the first meeting [for the year] we have been able to have with the Government and we believe that the meeting took place in a positive atmosphere and we recognise that the Government itself pays attention and I think that it is a good beginning. That is certainly important ground rule that we dialogue, that we talk and try to find an answer for the way forward. We are pleased. From GAWU, we are very pleased and it spells out that the future engagement are in the interest of the workers, the industry and the country,” he said.

Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon said that the Government is pleased too that both sides came prepared and were pragmatic in the circumstances, recognising that the interest of the industry and the workers are paramount. “The President himself set the tone for the meeting and indicated that what he wanted to see is both sides working in the best interest of the worker and in the best interest of the industry. We have committed ourselves in Government to allocate the necessary resources to ensure that workers who are severed that they receive their severance pay. I believe that the meeting was characterised by good faith on both sides and that the unions were very forthright and represented the interest of the workers and we appreciate the way in which the meeting went,” he said.

The meeting was also attended by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mr. Sydney Allicock, Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Noel Holder, Minister of Finance, Mr. Winston Jordan and Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Jaipaul Sharma.

The three sides will meet again at a date to be determined.

Georgetown, Guyana – (January 19, 2018) President David Granger, today, reminded regional officials and heads of municipalities that a rich country cannot be built on poor regions and as such, cooperation among local government organs is paramount. Speaking at the National Regional Development Consultative Committee’s (NRDCC) meeting, the Head of State said that, “We see each region developing the capability of attracting investors to encourage commerce with the Caribbean and other parts of the world and develop thriving business districts, industrial parks, busy highways and bustling stellings,” he said.

The President said that the Government of Guyana sees the establishment of NRDCC as a means of promoting cooperation among municipalities, neighbourhood democratic councils and regional democratic councils to achieve these common goals.

He explained that the Government operates at the local, regional and national levels and noted that all three tiers must work together to improve living standards and create a better quality of life for Guyanese citizens. In this regard, he lamented the absence of regional officials, particularly from certain Opposition-controlled Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs). “When regional chairmen refuse to attend important functions like these, you can see where divisionism starts…this is nothing less than administrative sabotage,” he said.

The President reminded those present that RDCs must, within the limits of the law, work with municipalities, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), Village Councils and other stakeholders to promote the development of their respective regions. Moreover, RDCs must superintend the work of NDCs and Village Councils, giving them support and assistance where needed. To this end, he said that the “NRDCC is an important step towards strengthening our system of modern and appropriate public administration.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Communities, Mr. Ronald Bulkan condemned statements made by Opposition Chief Whip, Ms. Gail Teixeira who referred to the NRDCC forum as sinister and said that it seeks to usurp the powers of the RDCs. He noted too that in his 2018 budget presentation, regional officials were told in no uncertain terms, about the importance of their participation of these high-level forums.

“The NRDCC is intended to serve as a mechanism for coordinating the development agenda of all there spheres of Government. The NRDCC is a step towards increasing the efficiency of the regional administrative structure to support the bottom-up approach to democratic governance…It will allow of more accountability and transparency, partnership among key stakeholders and planning which will aid in the effective delivery of public services throughout Guyana,” the Minister said.

Moreover, it will be a decisive step toward ensuring that the Government’s agenda of decentralisation is seamlessly implemented.

The event, which was held at the Marriott Hotel, was held under the theme, “Strengthening regional Governance through leadership and human resource development.”

 

DPI, GUYANA, Friday, January 19, 2018

British Security Advisor Lieutenant Colonel Russell Combe handed over his report on the Security Sector Reform Project to President David Granger at a simple ceremony at the State House on Thursday, January 18.

The report is considered active and does not represent a conclusion of the security advisor’s work but the beginning of more to be done. In the report, the Police have taken into account all consultations conducted within the security sector. Also, it further intends to illustrate strategic thinking required so that the country would be in a position to procure the equipment required by disciplined services.

In brief remarks, Combe said Britain will fund a review of Police training on his return.

“There is also going to be a training review of the Guyana Police Force, not just basic training, but also specialist and if you like employment training for the senior officers and that’s going to be funded by the United Kingdom starting in the new financial year when I hope to be back myself.”

Expressing his recognition that much of the work already conducted has begun to reflect a reformed security sector, inclusive of the justice and emergency systems, Combe noted “… there is the Citizen Strengthening programme; there is the rebuilding of the prisons at Mazaruni; there is plenty already happening to the Security Sector Reform Project in the security arena,” Combe pointed out.

The security sector reform, according to President David Granger, began some two decades ago and was discontinued by the British in 2009 following disagreements with the then PPP government. The programme was revamped following a request made by the Guyanese President to the British Prime Minister, shortly after taking office in May 2015, and has since examined the problems countrywide to promote a safe country for the citizens and visitors.

 

By: Kidackie Amsterdam

 

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Friday, January 19, 2018 – The restoration and conservation of murals and artwork created by renowned Guyanese artist, Aubrey Williams, will be integrated into the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation’s (CJIAC’s) expansion project.

Mr. Williams’ masterpieces represented the rich culture and heritage of Guyana’s first inhabitants – the Indigenous Peoples (Amerindians).

In May 2017 an assessment of artwork, placed at strategic locations throughout the then terminal building, was conducted at the behest of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) by the historical heritage watchdog – the National Trust of Guyana.

Following the National Trust’s recommendations, the Ministry proceeded to put measures in place to initiate the curative exercise.

“The significance of Mr. Williams’ works of art could not be disregarded. It was a part of the airport’s character,” said Hon. David Patterson, Minister of Public Infrastructure.

Additionally, new artwork conceptualized by some of the country’s talented artists will also be showcased in the new Arrival and Departure Terminals.

The majestic Kaieteur Falls, the country’s diverse ethnic cultures and historical sites and buildings will be among some of the pieces on show to captivate incoming and departing passengers. The expansion project contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) has included this exercise into its work programme.

“CJIAC is our main port of entry and promoting Guyana’s image begins as soon as passengers disembark the aircraft. Therefore, it is imperative that we pique their interest and fascination through art,” Hon. Patterson added.

 

 

DPI, GUYANA, Friday, January 19, 2018

A supplementary provision on the budget estimates totalling $1.75B to facilitate the payment of severance to sugar workers was yesterday laid in the National Assembly by Finance Minister Winston Jordan.

The estimated cost of the severance is $4.24B of which 50 percent will be paid by the end of January. The balance is expected to be paid before the end of 2018.

It was noted in the supplementary provision that $0.5B dollars of the $6.3B to be transferred to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) in 2018 is earmarked for severance payment

The estimated amount to be paid by the end of January stands at $2.25B dollars. This move is in keeping with Government’s commitment to ensuring the best interest of the workers is considered.

On Friday, January 19, 2018, the supplementary provision will be debated during the 85^th Sitting of the National Assembly.

The decision to down-size comes after years of struggling to support the ailing sugar industry. This Administration has said that on a monthly basis, $1B was being invested in GuySuCo to manage the recurring issues.

According to Government, it became clear that the constant applications of GuySuCo to the government for bailout sums needed to be addressed.

Minister Jordan disclosed recently that Government may have to resort to programme cuts at Ministries and other government agencies to facilitate the payment of the remaining severance payments.

 

By: Stacy Carmichael

 

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A nova diretora da Agência, Alessandra Bastos, assume a DSNVS. Jarbas Barbosa, Fernando Mendes, Renato Porto e William Dib permanecem com as mesmas diretorias.

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, January 18, 2018

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo exposed what he described as an Opposition conspiracy to stall reforms in the sugar industry when he urged defeat of the Opposition’s motion to have the 2015 Report of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into GuySuCo be put forward and be debated in the National Assembly this evening.

The motion was doomed to defeat as only 14 Opposition MPs were present for the debate, while the Government fielded a full slate of 33 MPs. According to Prime Minister Nagamootoo, the passage of the motion to send the 2015 Report of the sugar corporation’s COI would result in suspension of all the efforts to save the sugar industry, including 11,000 jobs.

“This argument, that the committee was not allowed to look at the COI has no merit, because I have quoted and I maintain my argument in submission that this report has been discussed in depth at the Committee level and that the White Paper was laid, and there was enough information on the policy which could have been debated, (at that time).  I believe strongly this motion is without merit and does not stand on any premise. But they say, (the Opposition) that they were refused from examining the report and with the opposition push to have this report sent to that particular select committee is only to frustrate the work of the nation and the work to bring some solution to the sugar industry,” the Prime Minister said.

He further described the Opposition’s argument that they were not giving documents as “a sham and fake” and that the PPP members of the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Economic Services’ call for a full cessation of GuySuCo’s operations as a ploy for political ambition.

“The Opposition wants to hold up the work of GuySuCo. Hold up the work of the Government. Hold up the efforts being made to save the jobs of sugar workers. Hold up the payment of severance, to frustrate the workers and to capitalise on their needs, their grief and capitalise on a situation no one wants to happen, for political ambitions,” he emphasised.

The Leader of the Government’s side of the House added that the Opposition can only resort to divisive tactics to create mass confusion, disenchantment and to frustrate all the efforts to rescue the sugar industry.

“The truth shall be known about the sugar industry and I shall speak these truths whenever I stand on my feet about the sugar industry, and to show that GAWU (Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union) as a handler is trying to put the industry in a no-win situation so that it can serve its own purpose in frustrating the workers and capitalize on them,” the Prime Minister concluded.

 

By: Gabreila Patram

 

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DPI, Guyana, Thursday, January 18, 2017

A motion presented by the Parliamentary opposition earlier today, asking for the report of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to be sent to the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Economic Services was outvoted by government, with Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder stating that the time for that has been long passed.

Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Bishop Juan Edghill presented the motion on behalf of Chairman of the Economic Services Irfaan Ali.

However, despite his arguments in support of the call, a rebuttal by Minister Holder concreted government’s decision.

According to the Agriculture Minister, the COI report which was laid in National Assembly in December 2015 laid out that while the amalgamation of sugar estates for the purposes of efficiency should continue, it did not recommend the closure of estates at this time. He said this fact was not considered in the arguments put forward by the Opposition’s MP.

He added the inquiry had also recommended that the industry be totally divested within a three-year period. He spoke too of the recommendations coming out of the Task Force which was established back in June 2016.

Minister Holder reminded that all documents relating to the Sugar Corporation, including the GuySuCo COI report and the State Paper are all public records.

“We have shared information. We have held meetings, shared our proposals and have given the opposition time to submit their proposals”, Minister Holder stated.

He also said the recommendation of the COI and the State paper offer many options, “It is the government’s view that the future of sugar is important to the fortunes of Guyana and its people,” continuing that “the good book says, for every time there is a season. But I respectfully submit that the time to send this report to the committee has passed”. He opined that it is a time for the country to move forward.

It was on this ground which he stated that the passage of the motion could not be recommended.

 

By: Alexis Rodney

 

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DPI, Guyana, Thursday, January 18, 2018

Karasabai, located in the South Pakaraimas District, Region Nine, will be launching a tourism package, as part of its Community Development Project (CDP) on Saturday, November 20.

Karasabai is one of the most developed Indigenous Village in Region Nine, with a population of approximately 1,260 residents, most of whom are of the Makushi tribe.

In a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock said the $5M project is a significant one for this vastly developing community.

Describing the beauty of Karasabai and what it has to offer, Minister Allicock explained that “The natural surrounding is an attraction in itself. We have the culture and the people, wildlife, the large anteater and a number of unique species of birds.”

Minister Allicock also highlighted the job opportunities that will be created from the project, since there will be a need for caterers, tour guides, bartenders, cleaners, transportation, and persons to provide the handicraft, foodstuff, among others.

He added that the ministry will be working together with the community to provide further training and facilitate exchange programmes from other tourism communities such as Rewa and Surama in the North Rupununi.

Karasabai is just one of several communities who are venturing into tourism through their CDP, which falls under the ambit of the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF).

Minister Allicock explained that the ministry has been collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to provide training for communities in the area of management, transparency, and accountability. According to the Minister, the intention is to equip the residents with the necessary skills to manage their own affairs.

The Community Development Projects (CDP) is in its second phase; over 100 communities were selected to execute the project which includes farming, agro-processing, aquaculture, poultry and cattle rearing, mining, village infrastructure including; construction of village office and multi-purpose building, village shop and museum, and transportation and tourism.

The project aims to strengthen entrepreneurial and institutional capacities of the village economy of Amerindian communities, improve linkages with the private sector to further develop value chains and strengthen institutional frameworks to support local economies.

 

By: Synieka Thorne

 

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