A publication of the Department of Public Information
July 2019
PAGE 2
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
PAGE 3
HOUSING FOR ALL PRES. GRANGER TOURS PERSEVERANCE, PROSPECT HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS By Anara Khan
President David Granger along with Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan and Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson as they visit the housing schemes.
Houses at the Prospect Housing Scheme Housing allocations for the period June 2015 to December 2018
Housing is essential to human existence and it is my mission to completely abolish homelessness in this country.” This was announced by President David Granger, as he visited the Perseverance and Prospect Housing Schemes. The President was accompanied by Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan and Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson. “I would like to leave office where there is not a single homeless Guyanese… every Guyanese will have a roof over his or her head,” President Granger expressed. During a meeting with the housing staff, the president explained the government’s new housing policy. He noted that the policy defined by the Constitution, is consistent with the United Nation’s International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 1966. “The government’s housing policy did not drop out of the sky, it is taken from the constitution of this country and the constitution says - every citizen has the right to proper housing accommodation and I intend to give them that right.” Government’s new housing policy is aimed at ensuring affordable and accessible housing for all. The president observed that this is far removed from government’s involvement in housing development over the past two decades, which revolved principally around the sale and allocation of house lots to individuals and the divestment of lands to private housing developers. The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) was established in 1948 and is expected to implement government’s housing policy of ensuring accessible and affordable housing to low and middle-income families and provide for the holistic development of all residential areas. Images: Ministry of the Presidency The Number of Housing Units Allocated by Type
HOUSING MINISTER VISITS RESIDENTS OF PERSEVERANCE HOUSING SCHEME By Ayana George Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Annette Ferguson visited the Perseverance Housing Scheme where she listened to concerns raised by the residents Some of the residents reported imperfections in the structure of the homes they occupy. Minister Ferguson, who has responsibility for Housing, said she will hold her office accountable since persons have commenced paying their mortgages and some are reluctant to occupy the homes until the flaws are fixed. “I visited more than 10 houses. However, there are cases where some homeowners were
not at home but appear on the complaint list. I have examined, listened and documented the beneficiary’s concerns. There are some issues with flooring, leaking roofs and toilet facilities,” the minister said. She reassured the residents that their concerns will be addressed shortly. “I have given the commitment that, once the defects are within the liability period, we at CH&PA [Central Housing and Planning Authority] will have them addressed.” The houses in the Perseverance Housing Scheme were constructed by private investors who worked in collaboration with the government through the Housing Solution 2017 and
Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson interacting with residents of the Perseverance Housing Scheme. Beyond project. This venture sought to resolve the enormous backlog of applications from as far back as 1994, at the CH&PA. In 2017, the project was strategically chosen because the layout of the housing scheme ac-
commodates 570 house lots, which helped to see a reduction in the 25,000 housing applications for that year. Image: Keno George
PAGE 4
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
EBD - ECD TO BE CONNECTED BY A DOUBLE LANE CARRIAGEWAY
By Synieka Thorne The sum of $67Million is providing for preparatory works and consultancy services for the new design of the East Bank to East Coast Demerara road project. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson explained that the new design will accommodate a double lane carriageway. “What was previously envisage was a single road linking house lots at the back of the housing development,” Minister Patterson said. “This Design will allow for a new alignment, approximately 15 km long, which will connect the East Coast of Demerara to the East Bank of Demerara at the limits. It will also allow for the integration with the existing road network via several Connector roads (total length of 9.62 km) at Aubrey Barker Road, Haags Bosch Road, Mocha Arcadia Road and Diamond Access Road. Later with the new bridge, at Houston,” he added. The Public Infrastructure Minister further explained that the proposed design for the main alignment comprises three sections, between Rupert Craig and Railway Embankment which will have four lanes with a cycle lane on each side and covered concrete drain which will be used as a sidewalk; between Railway Embankment and GuySu-
By Shaquille Bourne The Ministry of Public Infrastructure has completed the second of three roundabout projects to be executed by the government. According to Senior Engineer within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Sherod Parkinson, works on the Timehri roundabout is in its final stages. He explained that all that remains is installation of signage. The ministry has also constructed a new exit road from the airport that leads to the roundabout. Parkinson noted that “it all for a seamless flow of traffic … generally easier access to and from the airport”.
Co Compound a similar design but expanded and the cane field area which will have four lanes with a 40m reserve to separate direction of traffic. Additionally, the minister said the sum also covers additional costs associated with the draining of a 30-acre swampy area along the proposed alignment. “The surveyors would have walked the entire length all the way from the east coast all the way past Diamond and Grove and they encountered swampy sections… so, its to drain it, so by the time we start construction of the road, that area will be ready to have the road.” The project is estimated to cost $21.5Billion (US$104M) through a Government of Guyana and Government of India agreement. The funding is a supplementary provision to the 2019 budget for which $2.2Billion was already allocated in the budget. Once the project is completed, it will significantly reduce the heavy vehicular traffic along the EBD and ECD corridors. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure is also pushing to extend the East Bank-East Coast Road Linkage Project, currently from Diamond to Ogle, eventually towards the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. Image: Keno George
The contract for the Timehri roundabout project was approved by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) on August 2, 2017, at a cost of $74Million. Georgetown’s first major roundabout at the junction of Vlissingen Road and Carifesta Avenue officially opened on June 4, 2018, and saw significant improvement in the flow of traffic. The roundabout allows for reduced delays, reduced travel times and fuel consumption, and is also geared at reducing the severity of collisions. The third roundabout is to be constructed at Sheriff Street under the Sheriff-Mandela Avenue road project. Image: Ameer Sattaur.
Students utilizing the sidewalks in the Diamond community.
By Shaquille Bourne Thousands of persons are benefitting from the sidewalks built by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure in the communities of Providence and Diamond housing scheme. One such person is Keith Blackman who said, “I think it is a great idea because this road is very narrow and to actually put a sidewalk will secure persons so that when they are walking there wouldn’t be any issues… no accidents.” Amera Damon noted: “the sidewalk is very important for our safety since a lot of vehicles have been passing and the road is very narrow.” Commencing in January 2019, the project slated to be completed in the first quarter of this year, instead wrapped up in May. There were a few unexpected setbacks. Engineer within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Carissa Goodings, explained, “We had two main challenges. Firstly, the utilities in terms of the alignment… We had an encounter with the GTT fibre cables. We had to work around those and that created delays,” Goodings explained. There was also a modification in the design of the sidewalks in Providence. Goodings clari-
A view of the completed roundabout
fied that the initial design of the project included sidewalks slated to be built on the southern side of Red Road; along the stretch bordering Massy supermarket, Qualfon and Texila American University. However, due to structural complications with the concrete drains adjoining Massy, a decision was made to build the sidewalks on the opposite end of the road. Over in the Diamond housing scheme, the construction of sidewalks which encompassed, First and Second avenues, culminated just outside the Diamond Secondary School. Student of the school, Zachariah Raymond, shared his thoughts about the sidewalk, “it is very useful; you do not get harmed by being knocked down on the road”. The staff responsible for Traffic, Safety and Maintenance at the Ministry of Public Infrastructure have been working aggressively to identify areas in need of proper road signs, lights and other safety features to safeguard commuters. Plans are currently in place to upgrade many of those very safety features in the country, with a number of the contracts already out for tender. Image: Ameer Sattaur
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
PAGE 5
DIAMOND RESIDENTS WELCOME
$2BILLION WATER PLANT Section of the Diamond Water Treatment Plant
Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, ManagingDirector of GWI, Dr. Richard Van-West-Charles and a team from IDB inspecting the Diamond Water Treatment Plant “It gonna benefit because I tell you the truth, the water does come really dirty and it don’t filter to good purify, you know? Yea, it gonna benefit man”, local taxi driver at Diamond Car Park, Parsram Ramchan said about the Diamond Water Treatment Plant. Another resident of Diamond, a vendor by the name of Vanessa Arjoon expressed “we gonna be at a better standard of the water and that is good because right now I buy bottle water. So, if that the standard improved better than what it is now, I won’t have to buy water.”
Recently, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan, and a team from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) along with GWI officials visited the Diamond Water Treatment Plant that is nearing completion. The plant will have a capacity to service 30,000 residents and will have positive impacts on the non-revenue water, the issue of metering, and most importantly energy efficiency. Minister Bulkan praised the IDB funded project as “the largest investment in the water sector”. The Minister also placed major em-
phasis on the need for potable water and remphasised the Coalition Government’s commitment to that provision. “It is well accepted that apart from a roof over our heads, the provision of pure water is one of the basic requirements and necessities for dignified living. So, in this regard, this Administration is resolutely committed to providing this vital ingredient […] for human life and existence”, Minister Bulkan reiterated. In the original design of the plant, it was planned for water to be taken from both surface and ground. Managing-Director Dr. Van West Charles explained that there was a deviation from this design since water is primarily sourced from the ground. The GWI Head also noted that this decision will lead to massive savings.“As a result, it is contributing to a savings of approximately $25M per annum due to a reduction in the need to import chemicals for
the treatment process”, the Managing-Director said. This will also contribute to approximately $1.2M in energy savings per month. The Diamond Water Treatment Plant is part of three similar plants that are possible through the partnership and collaboration between the Government of Guyana, IDB, and the European Union. These plants are located in Diamond, Region Six and Region Three, of which in total cost $6.6B. Constructions works for all three water treatment plants are scheduled to conclude in December of this year. These water treatment plants allow the Coalition Government to work towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 6 which aims to “ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all”. Images: Jules Gibson
Potable water for more than 6,400 residents of Timehri North [In the photo, wearing a white dress] Seven-yearold Princess Rutherford turns on a pipe following the commissioning of the $43M Basic Needs Trust Fund, Guyana Water Inc. and Caribbean Development Bank collaborative Timehri North Water Supply Improvement Sub-Project.
By Paul Mc Adam One of the more than 6,400 residents of Timehri North, 52-year-old Yvonne McPherson welcomed the availability of potable water across the regularised community, following the formal commissioning of a new pump station. The former police rank said that she, like many others, was forced to purchase drinking water daily before the completion of the Timehri North Water Supply Improvement Sub-Project. For McPherson, who has lived in the community since 2005, it was tough because she had to use creek water, and “at least three or four times a week, you had to buy water. Now that we get the water, it’s good”. She added that after the community’s population grew, the creek which was used as a water source became contaminated. This forced McPherson and others to buy water on several occasions costing up to
$300 for a four-gallon container. For others like Colin King, who gave his story of change, the project was critically needed. The community leader lauded the partnerships that made the project a reality in what was once referred to as a squatting area, “your efforts truly serve to bring some much needed, healing to our community”. He told the team lead by Managing Director of Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Dr. Richard Van West-Charles. King further praised the government for regularising and recognising the community with the establishment of a Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC). The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and Coalition Government-funded project is just one of 19 sub-projects spearheaded by the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) 7th Programme. GWI Engineer, Shabana Omar said that the project was realised after BNTF’s Commu-
The new Pump Station at Timehri nity Liaison Officers conducted a community needs assessment. After funding was secured, the project was designed and supervised by E and A Consultants, with works contracted to S. Jagmohan Hardware Supplies and Construction Services costing just over $43M. The works commenced on September 12, 2017. GWI, according to Dr. Van West-Charles, will continue to execute its mandate of supplying potable water to communities, as far as possible. He said the water was tested and found to be free from impurities, reminding that all had to cooperate ensuring that children, especially, have access to “safe water”. He reiterated that the project is part of the government’s effort to ensure that Sustainable
Development Goal (SDG) 6, the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2040, is attained. At Hauruni Community on the Linden Soesdyke Highway, home to some 200 residents, a similar project was commissioned. This project, which cost $25M, was also contracted to S. Jagmohan Hardware Supplies and Construction Services but designed and supervised by Caribbean Engineering and Consultants Inc. It features a 60 meter well, photovoltaic pumping system, transmission line and an elevated storage 10,000-gallon facility built of reinforced concrete. Images: Marceano Narine
PAGE 6
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
NEW PUMP STATION, SLUICE FOR HERSTELLING Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson [second left] along with CH&PA CEO Lelon Saul [left], representative of Food for the Poor Guyana Inc., Andrea Benjamin and representative of the Broad/Lombard street residents Phillip Chase turn the sod. The pump station
By Nikosi Bruce The new $334Million Pump Station and Sluice located at Herstelling serves the catchment area of Herstelling, Providence South, Barnwell, Junor and Mocha Arcadia. These areas are known for the cultivation of plantains, banana, ground provision, citrus, mangoes and other cash crops. They also engage in the rearing of livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats, swine and poultry. The Ministry of Agriculture through the Rural Agricultural Infrastructure Development Project (RAID) executed the project that was funded by the CARICOM Development Fund Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder explained that under the project the ministry, “constructed 7.52km of new irrigation canals, excavated and rehabilitated 67.6km of irrigation channels and 70.6km of drainage channels. We have also
By Alexis Rodney rehabilitated 32km of fair-weather dams. Land clearing of 400 acres and 297 acres of land preparation have also been achieved.” He said that the land preparation (ploughing and chipping) contracts were awarded through community participation to the co-operatives in the areas. CEO of the fund, Rodinald Soomer, explained the components of the funding for this project. “The CDF’s Second Country Assistance programme for Guyana, of which this pump station is one component, was approved on July 21, 2016, and signed on December 12, 2016 for funding totalling US$10.4 Million [GYD $2.1B], comprising a blend of grant financing of US$3.8 Million [GYD$795.6M] and a loan of US$6.6 Million [GYD1.4B].” Images: Jules Gibson
The pump in action
By Synieka Thorne Four hundred residents in the Peter’s Hall Phase Two, community will benefit from major infrastructural works ongoing in the area. The project includes the construction of roads and drainage, culverts, land preparation and installation of electrical and water distribution systems. The project is being executed in four lots/ phases. Work on Lot Three is being carried out by GuyAmerica Construction Incorporated at a cost of $79.5Million. Of the 400 lots allotted, six are commercial
while the remainder are residential and residential-commercial. Some of the allottees were in the application system from as far back as 1995. Once the infrastructural development is completed, persons are expected to start the construction of their homes and businesses. The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is executing similar work in Prospect and Providence Phase Four on the East Bank Demerara. Lands in these areas were also allotted to persons. Image: Keno George
After more than 30 years of unfavourable living conditions, residents of 17-18 Broad/Lombard Streets Georgetown, can now live in a level of comfort. A collaboration, between the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and Food for the Poor Guyana Incorporated (FFTP), is the first phase of the project, and this will see the construction of twenty 2-bedroom 20x16 homes for 20 families in the Prospect community. Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson along with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CH&PA, Lelon Saul recently turned the sod for the project which will commence in August. The homes have received 59% funding from the CH&PA, while FFTP Guyana has contributed 41%. The beneficiaries will, however, be required to oversee the installation of electricity and water to their homes and prepare the space for septic tanks. Minister Ferguson told the jubilant beneficiaries that it is the Coalition Government and its promise of an improved living standard for all Guyanese that has made the project possible. She said while housing remains a significant bugbear at this time, all is being done through the CH&PA to ease the hardship. “We know of your pain. We know of your situation you have faced with,” she said at the simple ceremony. Having recently been given the responsibility for the housing sector, Minister Ferguson said she plans to ensure equitable and fair distribution of land. “You cannot apply in 2019 and expect to be given a house lot in 2019 when you have thousands of people waiting; in excess of twenty-something years. So today, you who would be
Road constructed in Peter’s Hall, Phase Two
benefitting from this should be happy. Our government want to see people removed from slums, and from swampy areas. And so, I am happy that we are constructing these buildings.” She said when the homes are completed; families are free to extend and make their lives more comfortable. At the ceremony, beneficiaries were beyond grateful for the “lifesaver”. Keisha Smith, who has been living at the Lombard street residence for over nine years, is elated. “I want to thank the Food for the Poor, CH&PA and everyone who gave us the houses. This means a lot to me and family because the condition that we are living in is not good.” Mother of three Melissa Abrams said she has been living at Lombard street all her life. “All my children born and grow there... I now feel like something is going for me. I feel so thankful to the Minister, Food for the Poor, President David Granger, and I thank God for everything.” Choking back tears, Phillip Chase said moving from Lombard Street to Prospect, opens wider doors for everyone, especially the young children. “It is not appropriate for the children to live there. Where we are going now is much better than where we are living,” he said. The Broad/Lombard Street project started in July 2017 when residents were required to relocate following a court order by the Gonsalves company. The government immediately stepped in to bring relief to residents. Six families that lost their homes by fire in March this year were placed on the priority list. While 20 families will be housed in the Prospect community, another 31 will be facilitated at Cummings Lodge, East Coast of Demerara. Image: Jules Gibson
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
Another nursery school in the growing East Bank of Demerara community of Diamond has been officially opened. Under the Coalition Government, the Diamond #2 Nursery School opened its doors on September 4, 2017, for the academic year with 77 students enrolled and a staff of six. The nursery school which is located in 5th Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme, was constructed by Eron Lall Civil Engineering Works at a cost of $22.1 Million. It has the capacity to accommodate 120 students in six classrooms.It was noted that while there are other schools in the vicinity, the distance was an inconvenience to the young students and their parents. This, coupled with the overcrowding of these schools due to the growing populace of nursery aged students, affected the attendance and punctuality rates. ď Ž Images: Jules Gibson
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
PAGE 9
PAGE 10
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
Major remodelling $161MILLION MMU annex commissioned for Diamond Diagnostic Centre The unveiled billboard at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre
By Anara Khan The Diamond Diagnostic Centre is one of the five health facilities identified by the ministry to be upgraded as part of the Smart Healthcare Initiative. Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence explained that apart from resilience the facility will become one “where the services can be provided in such a manner that there is no cumbersomeness in terms of the patients accessing the services and the staff being able to provide those services.” The ‘SMART Hospital’ concept refers to a health facility which is both safe and utilises green technology. Hospitals and other health fa-
cilities embracing this concept must provide standard and efficient health care before, during, and even immediately after the event of any natural or man-made disaster. The upgrades under the SMART initiative project are expected to be completed by May to June 2020. The other facilities identified are Leonora Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Mabaruma and Lethem Regional Hospitals and the Paramakatoi Health Centre. Recently, the Ministry of Public Health unveiled a billboard at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre as part of the Smart Healthcare Initiative. Image: Keno George
to the private donor, who agreed to present to funds to the group to enhance the playfield. “We recognise as a country that communities need to be more cohesive and one way of doing so is through sports and recreational activities.” He said the government is happy to partner with donors to empower communities across Guyana. Secretary of the Community Development Council (CDC) Eric Francois said after six years, the prayers of the community Special Advisor to the President, Dr. Mark Kirton have been answered. He said the presents the cheque of $1.5million to CDC Secretary, development project will be done Eric Francois in three phases. The funds donated will cater for phase one - makBy Alexis Rodney ing the playfield functional. “We are now getting action. Thanks to Minister The community of Samatta Point has received $1.5million for the enhancement of a community Felix. I must express my gratitude to all concerned playfield. The fund was made available through a and I can assure you that whatever the project in hand, we will have it done in a very transparent private Donor. Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix com- manner that will benefit the community,” Francois mended the donor for recognising the important said. The community of Samatta Point was estabneed in the community. “The cries of the community were heard and has resulted in this donation. lished back in 1976, however, homes were only I think it is a commendable effort,” the minister completed in 1980. Since then the community has been moving along the path to development. The said. Political Advisor to the President Dr. Mark housing population has expanded to around 250. Kirton made the presentation on behalf of the Image: Ameer Sattaur government. He explained that a proposal was put
Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence, tours the new annex of the Diamond MMU.
By Alexis Rodney A new multimillion-dollar annex of the Materials Management Unit (MMU) was commissioned by Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence. The $161 Million extension to the Diamond warehouse was funded by the Government of Guyana, and according to Minister Lawrence, is an expression of her Ministry’s commitment to achieving the MMU’s mission. “The commissioning of this bond is a robust confirmation of the government’s commitment to providing access to safe, effective and quality essential medicines”. The additional floor area of 428.5 square metres will provide 284 more pallet locations for bulk storage of pharmaceuticals and health products. The new extension comes with a new mini-lab that will support level one inspections of pharmaceuticals received at the MMU with semi-quantitative and qualitative testing for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API). Minister Lawrence said the government had been spending large sums of money for the rental of storage space. The investment in its own storage bond is, therefore, most fitting. “We recognised that there was an urgent need for us to make an investment because we would continue to be supplying drugs and medical supplies, so why not invest in a building so that we can pro-
The new annex of the Diamond MMU.
vide these services,” she said. The Minister said the Public Health Ministry has the mandate to realise the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number three, which addresses taking care of the wellbeing of citizens and bridging the gap of limited storage capacity. The Public Health Minister said the warehouse, with its extension, can house an increase in drugs and medical supplies. Further, the Ministry will also be able to reduce the number of offsite locations for the storage of supplies. The extension will also help the Ministry to better manage the items within its purview. Over the years, the ministry has also been expanding its medical services across Guyana. Minister Lawrence said with that expansion, comes the demand for more medical supplies. “At every regional hospital, we are able to have specialised services and so as we increase on the specialised services, it means we have to have additional supplies of medicines to fulfil the services on those regional hospitals. The MMU, she noted has been fulfilling that demand. The Public Health Minister hopes too that regional administrations will use the extension as an example to build their own storage bonds The MMU provides medical supplies to more than 372 health facilities across the ten administrative regions across Guyana. Images: Marceano Narine
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
PAGE 11
GOVT COMMITTED TO HOLDING CREDIBLE ELECTIONS AT EARLIEST POSSIBLE TIME - PRES. GRANGER
The two sides in discussion during the meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency
The Government of Guyana is intent on ensuring the conduct of credible elections as soon as possible said, President David Granger. The Head of State made the statement during his recent address to the nation on Tuesday July 9. Read the Full Transcript f the president’s address below: The Government of Guyana is intent on ensuring the conduct of credible elections at the earliest possible date. To achieve this, it is pursuing the full implementation of the decisions of the Caribbean Court of Justice and the early selection of the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission. The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on 18th June 2019, decided that the most sensible approach to appointing the Chairman of the Elections Commission was for the Leader of the Opposition and President to communicate with each other, in good faith, and to discuss eligible candidates for the position before the formal submission of a list. The aim was to enable the two sides to agree on the names of six persons who fit the eligibility requirements and who are “not unacceptable” to the President.
The Court found that, once the President and Leader of the Opposition have “hammered out” a list of names “not unacceptable” to the President, the list of six persons must then be formally submitted to the President by the Leader of the Opposition and the President must then select the Chairman from among those names. The Court believes that such an approach would give the President a role in the identification of the six names. It would also obviate the possibility that, after the formal presentation of the list, the President could suggest that one or more of the names, or indeed the entire list, is unacceptable. I met the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on 4th July 2019, at the Ministry of the Presidency. We discussed the means of selecting a new Chairman of the Elections Commission (GECOM) in accordance with the judgement of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and given the need to ensure that GECOM is allowed to function in an uninterrupted manner. The meeting aimed to reach consensus on the way forward for the nomination and appointment of the GECOM Chairman. It was agreed that the Leader of the Opposi-
By Alexis Rodney The Attorney General’s (AG) Chambers has declared that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) does not have the authority to extend the period for elections in Guyana, noting that such powers lie in the hands of Guyana’s Parliament. In its written submission to the CCJ dated July 1, the AG Chambers said there is no provision in the Constitution that empowers the Court to displace constitutional duty of the Parliament and to extend the time for the holding of elections. There are at least two fundamental principles of constitutional law that deny this Court the power to extend the period for the elections to be held. First, Article 106 (7) expressly gives to the National Assembly the exclusive power to extend the period. Extending the period for holding elections is not a legal question. It is self-evidently a political question for determination by the Executive and the Legislature. If, in this case, the Court were to seek to exercise that power, it would be violating the separation of powers doctrine,” the order stated. The Chamber’s legal team, headed by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams SC., proposed that the government should convene the National Assembly to have a resolution passed in order that the time be extended for
tion would submit a list of names of persons for my consideration. That list was submitted. Ms. Gail Teixeira acting on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition, wrote Mr. Joseph Harmon, Director General, Ministry of the Presidency on the 28th June 2019 saying “the Leader of the Opposition is not averse to the President informally suggesting names in their proposed engagement for his consideration.” Both sides agreed to establish a joint working group which would short-list the names to six and present the list to the Leader of the Opposition before it is presented to me. It was also agreed that the exchange of names, or this submission of names, will include also suggestions which the President presented for inclusion on that list. I said it was up to the Leader of the Opposition to submit the names of persons who had already been submitted on the previous three lists. The Government side is adhering to the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice and to the agreement with the Leader of the Opposition. The Government side remains committed to continuing the dialogue and concluding the selection process within days to enable the Elec-
the holding of an election within the earliest time. “If for any reason, however, the National Assembly does not pass the Resolution or the Resolution does not garner the requisite majority for an extension, President David Granger following consultation with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) should dissolve the National Assembly and General and Regional Elections should be held on a date to be fixed by the Head of State.” Addressing the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the legal team stated that the appointment of a GECOM chair is subject to a mandatory constitutional process. And until the President and the Leader of the Opposition complete that process, GECOM’s work will be affected. The government lawyers said unless and until a Chairman of GECOM is appointed, it will be constitutionally incapable of lawfully directing, supervising and administering the elections which are required to be held. President Granger and Opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo met last week to discuss matters of a new Chairman for the Commission. The team of lawyers include Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay, Solicitor General Nigel Hawke, and Attorneys-at-law Iliana Swift and Jerome Rajcoomar.
President David Granger speaking with the media, following the conclusion of the meeting tions Commission to function. Once done, Guyanese can expect credible elections in the shortest possible time. The President, acting on the advice of the Elections Commission that it is ready to conduct elections, will proclaim a date for those elections. This necessitates the Chairman of GECOM being in place as early as possible. Images: Keno George
Cabinet will meet until CCJ provides clarity – DG Harmon Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon said that the Cabinet will continue to meet until the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) offers clarity. At his post-Ccabinet press briefing on Friday, July 5, DG Harmon explained that there was nothing in the CCJ’s ruling that stated the Cabinet should not meet. However, the government, in a written submission on Monday, June 24, asked the Trinidad base court to provide clarity of whether Cabinet should be meeting. “So, we will await the clarification from the CCJ on that matter,” DG Harmon noted. He pointed to the Constitution of Guyana, which speaks to the president and government remaining in office. “It is our duty as a government to govern, and therefore, every day that we are in government, we have to execute the mandate of governing and ensuring that the people’s business is taken care of.” DG Harmon reiterated that the government will continue to perform its functions until full clarity is provided. The CCJ will hand down specific consequential orders on July 12 as a result of its ruling on June 18.
PAGE 12
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
Dave Chowtie and Venisha Lall are 2019 NGSA top students! By Nateshia Isaacs Twelve-year-old (12) Graham’s Hall Primary School student Dave Chowtie and Vennisha Lall of CV Nunes Primary School have topped this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). Chowtie, who just two months ago emerged the victor in the Department of Education’s Math Quiz competition 2019, related his gratitude to God, his parents, other family, teachers and fellow classmates who were his support system going into the examination season. “I wasn’t expecting this!” Chowtie said. Venisha Lall, like Chowtie, gained a total of 532 marks out of a possible 536. Other schools who produced students in the top ten positions were Novar Primary School (Region 5), CV Nunes Primary (Region 2), Success Elementary School (Region 4), Academy of Excellence (Region 3), Marian Academy, Maes Under 12 Primary, Josel Educational Institute and The New Guyana School (Georgetown). The examinations, sat by more than 14,000 students were held countywide on April 17 and 18, 2019. The students were tested in 4 subject areas; Mathematics, English Language, Social Studies and Science. Below is a list of the performers who secured a
spot in this year’s top ten. Top 10 NGSA Performers 1st (532) Dave Chowtie – Graham’s Hall Primary School Venisha Lall – CV Nunes Primary School 3rd (530) Shirish Persaud Ruth Lawson – Academy of Excellence Ethan Bianchini – Marian Academy Shivali Challu – Mae’s Under 12 7th (529) Sarita Somai – Success Elementary Ajala Maharaj – Marian Academy 9th (528) Sarah Johnson Jaaya Shiwraj Aditya Sharma Academy of Excellence Maaseiah Salikram Akaia Griffith – Success Elementary Umashankar Singh – Novar Primary Devine Amsterdam – New Guyana School Malene Crandon- Josel Educational Institute Narindra Singh – Marian Academy
Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry flanked by the two top performing students
Diamond Secondary host first Career Day after 11 years of existence
Image: Ameer Sattaur
Scenes of Career Day at Diamond Secondary School.
National Grade Six Assessment Top Performing Student, Venisha Lall
By Nikosi Bruce The benefits of the Ministry of Education’s Maths Camps are evident as there has been a marked improvement in the overall performance of students in Mathematics at the 2019 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). This was revealed by Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry during the announcement of results at the National Centre for Education Research Development (NCERD) building in Kingston. An improved performance was recorded in Mathematics for 2019 as compared to 2018. In 2018 roughly 38 per cent of the students who sat the exam managed to attain a score of 50 per cent or more in Mathematics, this is in comparison to the improved 42 per cent for 2019. The performance in Mathematics was spread across key regions as Minister Henry disclosed. “This year we have seen improved performance in Mathematics in all of the regions, with the most notable improvement being in Regions Two, Three and Eight and I am really pleased to see that in the particular case of Region Eight, they have actually doubled their performance
National Grade Six Assessment Top Performing Student, Dave Chowtie from last year,” Minister Henry pointed out. English language maintained a stable performance this year, with more than 57 per cent of the students attaining 50 per cent or more, a major improvement in comparison to 2016 where only 41 per cent of the students would have attained passes. As it relates to Regional performance, Minister Henry revealed that “we [the ministry] have noticed that in ten of the eleven administrative districts, the ten administrative regions and Georgetown, candidates were able to secure places at the top five secondary schools in the capital city of our beautiful country, this of course is a good sign and certainly an indicator that reducing the disparities in education delivery between the hinterland and the coastland region is beginning to take some form.” The top spot this year was shared by Dave Chowtie and Venisha Lall, both attaining a score of 532 marks. Out of the 166 top students to partake in the exams, 72 were boys and 94 girls. Images: Abike Barker, Ameer Sattaur
Diamond Secondary School hosted its first ever Career Day and invited several other schools to visit, having been in existence for more than a decade. The school is located at Diamond, East Bank Demerara. Grade 6 Teacher of the Diamond Grove Primary School, Colis Dublin said it is imperative for his students to be there as they will soon be going off to secondary school having sat the 2019 National Grade Six (Common Entrance) Examination. “This is a stepping stone for them to make a choice as they get older, they can start making decisions on ‘what career I can go into when I get to that point?’ Instead of waiting for that last-minute scenario. At least if they have their future set aside, they would know this is what I want to be when I get older.” One child, Emmanuel Hall, who was inspired to become a lawyer, was amazed by the options available at the Career Day activity. It was explained that the hosting of this activity was considered to help students nar-
row their selection for class streams. “I want my students to be able to have enough information to make the right choice,” explained Head Teacher of the Diamond Secondary School, Lesmeine Collins. Third former of the Diamond Secondary School, Winston Davidson believes every child must dream big. He expressed the desire to be a paediatrician. “I will study hard to know exactly what to do and reduce the number of children dying.” His mother, Vanessa Higgins is of the view that parents should be supportive of their children’s chosen career path. The successful event saw several agencies present including University of Guyana’s Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Cacique Accounting College, National Accreditation Council, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Qualfon, Grove Health Centre, Ministry of Social Protection and the Ministry of the Presidency. Images: Gajuan Jordan
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
PAGE 13
TO BE OR NOT TO BE
THE issue as to who would be the next Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) stirs in me a refrain from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, “To be, or not to be”: That is the question. Ser o no ser – es la cuestion! When the President and the Leader of the Opposition met last Thursday, the issue of who should be the chairman took centre-stage. It was agreed that the Leader of the Opposition would re-submit the 18 names on the three lists that have previously been deemed unacceptable, and which had resulted in the President appointing Justice James Patterson from outside those lists. The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has ruled as flawed, the process by which the appointment was made. Justice Patterson has since demitted office and the post is vacant.
FIT AND PROPER At the time of the submission by the Leader of the Opposition, each person on the Lists of 18 would have indicated willingness to be appointed GECOM’s Chairman. Each of the nominees had wanted to be the chairman, and would have considered himself/herself as “fit and proper” within the meaning of the Constitution of Guyana. However, it is possible that the consolidated list of 18 would be sanitised; that there might be nominees who are no longer interested in becoming the chairman. It is possible also that in view of the brouhaha over dual citizenship, that some persons who might be under allegiance to a foreign power or state may wish to withdraw for this or any other reason. According to the CCJ, both the President and the Leader of the Opposition would together hammer out a list of names not unacceptable to the President. The CCJ sees this as a new approach that “gives the President a role in the identification of the six names.” This is a goodfaith process that could result in building trust between Government and Opposition, as no elections could be held, sooner or later, unless the Elections Commission has a chairman and is able to re-commence preparatory work for any such elections.
CART BEFORE DONKEY It was surprising therefore that whilst the new process to examine the reconstituted list has not gotten underway, that the Leader of the Opposition has chosen to lead a flock of party zealots in protest activity for elections to be held now, or within the next 70 days. The Jagdeoites want the government to resign, and the President to announce a date for elections. It is commonsense that there can be no elections without a proper GECOM. Calling for elections now is like putting the cart before the donkey. President Granger was magnanimous and statesmanlike in accepting the proposition that the old names could again be placed on the ta-
ble. His Excellency could have brushed aside the proposal as a political ploy or pure provocation. But to demand resignation of the government and elections within 90 days of the recent CCJ (June 18) judgment is a calculated attempt at undermining the good- faith process. Could it be that the PPP is trying to influence the CCJ ahead of its consequential orders on July 12, to prematurely and unilaterally fix a date for elections in contravention of the constitutional role of the Elections Commission and the Executive President? This cannot be within the contemplation of any reasonable or sensible person.
POLITICAL SCENARIO So I try to look for another political scenario that is being painted by an alienated rump of the PPP, that the Jagdeo faction of the PPP is going soft on the coalition government. This, in party jargon, is tantamount to appeasing the enemy, especially after the Opposition Leader invited the President to informally recommend names of persons who could qualify to be GECOM’s Chairman. For this clique, if the President and the Opposition Leader could see eye-to-eye on this issue, then the door could theoretically be opened for talks on the wider issue of governance and inclusivity which, I believe, Jagdeo wants. The mere possibility of that would re-activate the racist bells within the party, which smells outright power at the next polls and would not at this time toy with any other idea, however feasible in the current situation. It is no wonder that Donald Ramotar, the former President and ousted party general secretary, yesterday launched a racist tirade against coalition’s leaders, whom he described as “vultures” and “scoundrels.” (Letter in GT July 6, 2019). It is evident that disgruntled elements within the “Gang of 8”, are worried that the Granger-Jagdeo talks are going well, or could go well. This would be unlike the time when
Ramotar had the process within his grasp, and he messed it up. Ramotar is a quintessential Stalinist, a dogmatist; and a vulgar, street-side political bully who once publicly called me an “intellectual jackass.” He has once again, at a time that requires engagement not confrontation, put his putrid foot into his mouth!
“Building Trust and Confidence” under which government-opposition and PPP/PNC party-to-party reproachment would be possible. But, as Ramkarran pointed out, “By design, the proposals in Building Trust and Confidence were never invoked, even after a PPP/C minority Government was elected in 2011.”
UNIMAGINATIVE INFLEXIBILITY
GAME CHANGER
Reflecting on the post-2011 scenario, the one-time influential PPP top brass and former Speaker of the National Assembly, Ralph Ramkarran, accused the Ramotar-led minority regime with “unimaginative inflexibility,” which was “true to the culture of securing dominance.” That regime, he noted, did not even discuss internally the issue of a coalition arrangement with one or both of the opposition parties. That government, according to Ramkarran, “fell after three years of political turmoil.” (SN January 13, 2019). It is again this “unimaginative inflexibility” that is being applied to force the Jagdeo-led PPP to make outlandish and impracticable demands. It has to push the notion of dominance by the newly baptised “all-weather party,” instead of constructive engagements that could bring about changes in government-opposition relations. During 2003, after my unrelenting campaign, the PPP had adopted a declaration of
In my view, that it is still neither late nor impossible for the Government and the Opposition to arrive at consensus over the appointment of the GECOM Chairman “within days,” as President Granger has assured. It is also possible that the Government and Opposition, by agreement, could settle on a realistic timeframe for fresh elections, even if this means going back to Parliament to extend the date that had kicked in when the CCJ ruled that the no-confidence motion was validly carried. When the Opposition would have thrown its support for the motion for extension of the elections time-frame, it would be the first time in a marathon race that the two big blocs would have scaled with a two-thirds majority a major hurdle towards consensus politics in Guyana. That would release unimaginable possibilities for the realisation of other national goals by consensus. The question is, for the parties involved, whether to be or not to be a game changer!
New Wharf for Timehri Docks
The construction of a new timber wharf at the Timehri Docks will bring much relief to Demerara River farmers and East Bank Demerara residents. In a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Chairperson of the Regional Democratic Council for Demerara-Mahaica, Genevieve Allen said the $13.9Million wharf will aid commercial activ-
ities and improve livelihoods. “They will have improved facilities for them to come and ply their trade within the region and also further afield,” the Chairperson explained. The wharf replaces a dilapidated facility. According to Allen, timber revetments are also being constructed in several communities within the Region.
PAGE 14
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
Editorial Director
Editor-in-Chief
Imran Khan
Ernestine Leonard
Contributing writers: Synieka Thorne, Felecia Valenzuela, Anara Khan, Alexis Rodney, Isaiah Braithwaite, Delicia Haynes, Neola Damon, Ayana George, Natasha Smith, Nateshia Isaacs, Nikosi Bruce and Shaquille Bourne.
Photography: Keno George, Jules Gibson, Kawise Wishart, Tejpaul Bridgemohan, Kennyann Bacchus, Anil Seelall, Leon Leung, Karime Peters, Ackeem Thomas, Giovanni Gajie, Gajuan Jordan, Marceano Narine, Mohendra Raj and Ameer Sattaur. Layout and design: Christina Bissoon
The holding of national elections that are free and fair is recognised as the fullest expression of a country’s democracy since it is a constitutional exercise that gives every eligible citizen the opportunity to participate in the right to choose the government of their choice. Every national election is expected to be conducted in a manner that is above board, as well as transparent. This means that the results, when declared, must be accepted as credible, and without doubt or controversy. It must also be able to withstand scrutiny from all quarters. In Guyana, where national and regional elections are constitutionally held every five years, it is well known that every such constitutional exercise is preceded by a process of house-to-house registration, which allows for a sanitised/clean voters’ list; meaning a list of voters who are registered as being alive and present in Guyana at the time of this procedure. It also allows for the registration of those young voters who become eligible to take participate in the national electoral process. It is this process that the Bharat Jagdeo–led Peoples Progressive Party/Civic, is objecting to, for reasons which can only be described as politically expedient; dishonest; both anti-national and anti-democratic, and which goes against the fact of the constitutional right of the citizen to be properly registered for what is the most important constitutional exercise. It must be noted that there has never been an objection, from the now opposition PPP/C when it had the reins of government, or from any of the individual-member political parties of the current coalition, before they collectively became the government in 2015; prior to now, to the legal fact of house to house registration being conducted for the purpose of a national election, as it is in accordance with the National Registration Act, and has been done so many times before. In fact, the following years particularly -1992, 1997, 2001, 2006, and 2011 - were election years when the PPP/C were known to demand and ensure that there was house-to-house registration. The government at that time would have been correct, as it was a legitimate requirement for such to take place before every election, for the issuing of a proper voters’ list; as well as being a legitimate expectation of the people. It would be an act of the gravest derelic-
tion of constitutional and national duty, if a government makes a proclamation for national elections, without ensuring that the national electoral body, in Guyana’s case, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has not prepared a list which is accurate and a true reflection of the statistical total of eligible voters. An important reminder - it is this constitutional body which is solely responsible for this crucial task, and which on completion must advise the government on a date for an election. It is a constitutional fact, which Bharat Jagdeo, when as president, some time ago, reminded the nation when he had announced a date for national and regional elections. And so it is fair that we to ask, why now is this opposition party is objecting to a necessary exercise, which they had always supported and ensured, done when it had been the government? Is it fair, for reasons which are best known to this now opposition party to object to an absolutely necessary process which had always been done? There can be no other reason, except for sinister purposes, for such devious obstruction. Be reminded that not to have house-tohouse registration, amounts to having a voters list that is bloated and corrupted; one which is not accurate because it does not reflect the true number of eligible voters; because it continues to have the names of citizens who should not be listed, because they have either migrated or are deceased. Also, such a list, which must be totally sanitized, must also contain the names of citizens who would have become eligible for voter participation, since the last election. It is this category which stands to be threatened by PPP/C objections which have no merit. This will mean, the denial of the human rights of an important category that number in the thousands, young people, who must enjoy the right of choice of government, like any other age group in this country. It is criminal for any political party, albeit the opposition, to attempt to hinder this key electoral, exercise of house-to-house registration. It amounts to desperation in efforts to stymie the democratic process, while at the same time, frustrating the will of the people. It is the most glaring example of PPP/C HYPOCRISY. House-to-House registration lays the solid foundation for national elections which are transparent and credible and acceptable to all Guyanese.
Text and Photos also by: The Ministries of the Presidency, Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Social Cohesion, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Communities.
Department of
Public Information Homestretch Avenue, DurbanPark, Georgetown. Tele:225-4255,226-6715, 226-8849 Fax: 226-6005 Email: dpi@dpi.gov.gy or www.dpi.gov.gy
Get social with us /dpiguyana
@dpiguyana
/dpiguyana
@dpiguyana
dpi.gov.gy
dpi@dpi.gov.gy
Meet our team
Nateshia Isaacs Communications Officer
East Bank Rundown - July 2019
PAGE 15
PAGE 16
East Bank Rundown - July 2019