Guyana’s involvement with EU forest governance, trade programme a stepping stone for country’s future
–Minister Persaud

Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud has emphasised the need for society to protect Guyana’s rain forest; since it is of tremendous importance, not only as a contributor to the timber and forest product sector, but also in the fight against climate change.


Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud (third from right), flanked by Representative of the European Union, facilitator of FLEGT, John Bruneval, Member of the National Toshao Council, Yvonne Perason, President of the Forest Product Association, Hilbertos Cort, Chairman of the Guyana Forestry Commission Board, Raj Singh and Charge de’ Affairs of EU delegation to Guyana, Norbert Probst

            Referring to President Bharrat Jagdeo’s advocacy at the United Nations recently; for the recognition and role the forest plays in the climate change fight to be underscored, Minister Persaud said Guyana’s engagement with the European Union (EU) Forest Governance and Trade is a major stepping stone to determine the country’s next step.
            The Minister was at the time delivering the feature address at the Guyana Forestry Commission’s national workshop today; at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal.
            The workshop drew participants from the European Union, Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade Programme (EU FLEGT), Forest Product Association (FPA), Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), National Toshaos Council (NTC), and the Private Sector.


Attendes, during the closing ceremony of the Guyana Forestry Commission’s national workshop, at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal.

            The initiative is the second such engagement with Guyana and the EU FLEGT for 2010.
            “As part of our commitment to consultation, the main purpose was to share information and better inform local stakeholders about EU FLEGT as we explore Guyana’s possible engagement in EU FLEGT with an aim of entering into a Voluntary Partnership Agreement, ” Minister Persaud said.
            He told the gathering that the Head of State at the 65th session of the United Nations General Assembly recently emphasised that if the international community is prepared to be held accountable, developing countries will not be found lacking.
            Guyana signed a MoU with the Government of Norway, which would outline a cooperation framework for the next five years.
And according to the Minister with responsibility for forestry, today’s activity is in keeping with Guyana’s commitment to the MoU, which would see a commencement with the EU for a formal dialogue on its Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade processes and the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA).


Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud delivering at the Guyana Forestry Commission’s national workshop, at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal.

            The Minister while indicating that the EU has always been an important region for the country’s forest products export; said that Guyana’s total forest products for 2009 were valued US$4.55M.
            Already for the first half of this year, the export rate has reached US$3.35M compared to US$1.5M for 2009. Guyana’s total export value to the EU accounts for approximately 14 percent of Guyana’s total forest export market in terms of value for the first six months of this year.
             “The 14 percent accounts for dressed and undressed lumber, piles and a small amount of splitwood, however, there is notably no log export to the European market for 2010 thus far.”
             Representative of the European Union, facilitator of FLEGT, John Bruneval while noting that the workshop which was deemed positive is a starting point, however, said there is a need for more internal debates.
            While indicating that the way forward is a choice for society, Bruneval said that the initiative is a good basis to think of technical issues to assist the implementation.
            Meanwhile, the workshop was appreciated by President of the Forest Product Association, Hilbertos Cort and Chairperson of the National Toshaos Council, Yvonne Pearson who both said that there should be no difficulty in progress being made under the EU FLEGT.

Japanese team expected in October to conclude assessment of EDWC
- use of technology under consideration

A fourth mission from Japan is expected in Guyana next month to conduct a final assessment of the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) which serves the functions of a flood control structure and a source of irrigation for agricultural lands during the dry season.
            The team’s supportive role which aims to strengthen the conservancy banks follows a US$6.7M Joint Declaration on Enhanced Co-operation in Environment and Climate Change issues that were made between the two countries after President Bharrat Jagdeo and then Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met in 2007.


President Bharrat Jagdeo meets Japanese Ambassador to Guyana Tatsuaki Iwata at State House

            Japanese Ambassador to Guyana Tatsuaki Iwata met President Bharrat Jagdeo at State House today to discuss the next step in efforts to strengthen the EDWC and the prospects of reaching a conclusion.
He told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that Japanese engineering experts are at present mulling whether technological innovation can be applied to the effort.
“If that element is clear it will tell us what kind of construction method will be adopted and will tell us what kind of technology we utilize for fortifying the banks,” Ambassador Iwata said.
Upon the conclusion of the team’s assessment, a final plan will be crafted qualifying Guyana to benefit from the procurement of equipment, earthen works with the EDWC and rehabilitation of critical drainage structures.
 This includes possible support for the construction of the Cunha Canal, even as the government proceeds with the northern relief channel at Hope/Dochfour to increase the discharge capacity of the EDWC. Work is slated to begin on the latter on October 1.
 In July last year Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud met with a preparatory study mission from the Japanese Government to follow up on support for the EDWC and its associated drainage and irrigation structures.
The Japanese team was headed by Goya Yoshiyuki, the Executive Technical Advisor to the Director General of the Rural Development Department, of JICA. Technical experts from Japan are working closely with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority to boost its capacity.
The EDWC is a major freshwater impoundment located in Region Four, 15 miles south of the most densely populated sections of Guyana. It is bounded to the north by a 40-mile earthen dam structure and south by the natural topographic rise composed largely of ancient coastal dune formations.
The conservancy serves two purposes; first as a flood control structure which prevents water from the back lands invading the coast during the rainy season; and second as a source of irrigation for the agricultural lands during the dry season


President Bharrat Jagdeo and Japanese Ambassador to Guyana Tatsuaki Iwata in discussions at State House

The floods of 2005 had resulted in overtopping of the conservancy and prompted action by government to upgrade and strengthen the structure through a number of projects.
One such imminent project is the construction of an outfall channel at Hope that will be of enough capacity to relieve the pressure on the conservancy.
Meanwhile, heavy reliance has been on sea defence drainage and irrigation structures and mangroves to protect the coastland from the Atlantic. Extreme events such as hurricanes have however, resulted in erosion of the earthen embankment, mud ripples along the coast and uprooting of the mangroves.
Over the years government has expended about US$30M for capital and rehabilitation works for sea defence, some of which has been supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
           

Guyana’s Food Security Strategy to be launched as part of Agriculture Month activities

October is Agriculture Month in Guyana and several activities are to be staged in highlighting the achievements of the sector and to give farmers, agro-processors, among other stakeholders, an opportunity to showcase their products.
            Chairperson of the Agriculture Coordinating Committee (ACC), Basdeo Dwarka updated media operatives during a press briefing in the Agriculture Ministry’s Boardroom today; on planned activities for Agriculture Month 2010. This year’s theme is “Fighting global hunger through Agriculture Diversification in Guyana.”
            Guyana is known as a country that is food secure, and according to Dwarka, by increasing agriculture production through the Ministry’s Agricultural Export Diversification Programme (ADP), efforts to combat world hunger can be achieved.
            The month’s activities are also in keeping with the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s theme for World Food Day “United against hunger.”
            He noted that recognition will be given to livestock development, and the Livestock Development Authority. There will be distribution of livestocks and a bee forum.
            “With respect to fruits and vegetables the National Agricultural Research Institute’s (NARI’s), facilities will be commissioned, that will be aiding and driving fruits and vegetables. We will also have a Pesticide and Residue and Safety forum with the health aspect by the Pesticide Board during that period,” he said.
            Aquaculture is also one method of diversifying the future of the local agricultural economy, as it possesses the potential to become one of the country’s leading export earner. In line with this, a day will be dedicated to Aquaculture where officials will be touring and inspecting several farms countrywide.
            In the area of Drainage and Irrigation, Dwarka pointed out that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), will also be playing a key role noting that, “The NDIA will be having their say and we will be kicking off with them for the Hope Dochfour Canal.”
At Moleson Creek 3000 hectares for private farmers will be drained.
            The activities of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), GuySuCo and the Guyana Forestry Commission will be highlighted and as such, emphasis will be placed on non-timber products. A two-day forestry community seminar will be held in the Forestry Complex in this regard.
            Enhancing food security which has been a priority of Government will be boosted as the Ministry of Agriculture will be launching Guyana’s Food Security Strategy, as a main component of activities for Agriculture Month.
            “We will also be having an Appraisal Seminar to further examine our current requirement and the way forward.”
            Meanwhile, General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), Nizam Hassan while noting that the Ministry of Agriculture’s presentation at Guyexpo, will be in support of its theme; disclosed that this year the Ministry will not be hosting an agrifest and as such, October 2 is dedicated to the event.
            Hassan stated that the planned activities will be showcasing how the Ministry has re-organised itself towards a value chain approach as it relates to agriculture development.
            This year Guyexpo is being held under the theme “Expanding investments in a sustainable environment.”
            Agencies such as the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), Forest Products Development Marketing Council, New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), Fisheries, Aquaculture and Apiculture and the Hydromet service will be showcasing their products.
            Presentation by the Guyana Mangrove Restoration Committee and the Climate Change Unit will also be done, in keeping with the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, which seeks to transform the country’s economy while combating climate change.
          

Minister Persaud encourages Buxton farmers to resume commercial scale cultivation
- during follow-up visit to community

The Ministry of Agriculture continues its financial support to farmers, to ensure that they remain productive, as Guyana’s main priority remains the availability and sustainability of food security.
           On Thursday, Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud and Chief Executive Officer, National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Lionel Wordsworth visited Buxton backlands to access the works currently in progress to clear the area for further land cultivation.
The area, has over the years, been receiving much attention from Government, which has been helping farmers through the distribution of planting materials, equipment, and chemicals; while other forms of support such as the provision of livestock (genetic) have also given.
Minister Persaud said that the follow-up visit was to assist farmers to make use of the lands for cultivation which will in term benefit the community and the country as a whole.


Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud interacts with contractors during the rehabilitation of the canal at Buxton backland

            “We have seen some progress, but I must say that we need to see many more farmers getting involved and tapping into the support we have been giving. We just purchased a new tractor which we will not only be used in this community; but others as well,” he said.
            As the Ministry of Agriculture continues to place emphasis on the diversification of the non-traditional sector to stimulate export and increase earnings for rural farming communities, similar exercises are being conducted along the East Coast backlands including Enterprise, Victoria and Bee Hive.
            At Buxton, a farmers’ field school has been established by the Agriculture Ministry, to have farmers exposed to new techniques and technologies.
            According to the subject Minister, over the last two years, approximately $100M has been expended by Government, to get cane farmers specifically, to be more productive. Cultivation will be aided with the construction of a $125M sluice.
            “We will be building a sluice which will take a lot of water that has been accumulating, since for decades that has been a problem. But the area is much more productive than the last time I visited,” the Minister noted.
            Minister Persaud pointed out that the Government is making huge investments and therefore he would like to see an improved scale of farming; since it is the way to go.
            While referring to the $125M sluice which will be constructed to adequately facilitate the area’s drainage system, he said that the initiative is a continuation of the farmers’ support programme in the village; clearing major canals which have not be cleared for decades.
            This year alone the Ministry will be spending close to $50M to commence earthen works in several areas.

Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud interacts with contractors during the rehabilitation of the canal at Buxton backland

            “We have about five projects that are ongoing within this area and this is just one of those. This canal will allow the back water to come down to support cane and crop farmers all the way down to the pump basin. This will be done in the other sections too where we will be doing similar works with the hope that this will bring the areas under productive use,” Minister Persaud added.
            Due to the now renewed interest of farmers to resume cultivation; Minister Persaud asserted that, the Government will continue to give its support and already there are canal clearing works being undertaken.
The Ministry is not only providing drainage support but also technical support such as inputs and ploughing of the lands. Farmers are only required to farm.          
“ We hope that this type of commitment that we have demonstrated which started in 2007, will be of great assistance to residents and farmers of Buxton and its surrounding communities; enabling them to become more food secure.”
 The Ministry is also encouraging farmers’ group to also see themselves not just as farmers, but as businesses; since the potential, not only lies in cash crop but also the rearing of livestock.
While the Ministry has donated a number of breeding animals through its sub-agency the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), vets were also made available to assist the farmers with proper husbandry.


Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud (flanked) by farmers and technical officials from the Ministry during visit to Buxton backland

It is anticipated that a cottage industry will be established within the area to facilitate processing.
While giving an overview of the drainage project, NDIA’s, CEO, Lionel Wordsworth said that the works form part of a wider drainage and irrigation network for the entire East Coast communities.
“This will facilitate the community, since in the past it experienced a lot of uncontrollable flows of backland water during the rainy reason. But what you are seeing now is the rehabilitation of the main drainage and irrigation canals.”
Within the process, approximately 40 miles of canal will be rehabilitated along the Buxton/Friendship areas, while works to the Crown Dam from Lusignan to Ann’s Grove, Green Field and Moca Arcadia on the East Bank of Demerara have been completed.
Similar works are ongoing in Sarah Johanna and Craig, on the East Bank of Demerara.
For 2010, over $49M has been spent on D&I works in the Buxton/Friendship areas. These include;- rehabilitation of Buxton Middle Walk sideline- 45 percent completed, rehabilitation of Buxton east sideline- 40 percent, rehabilitation of Buxton west sideline- 85 percent construction of Timber Bridge at Buxton company across the CNC Canal, rehabilitation of Friendship Canal, Pond Dam to Crown Dam- 5 percent, rehabilitation of Friendship East sideline- 5 percent and emergency revetment works at Buxton Pump Basin.  

Only way to preserve forest is to address alternative use, tackle drivers of deforestation -President Jagdeo during panel discussion on investing in world’s forests

The singular way to preserve forest in the long -term is to address its alternative use and tackle the drivers of deforestation, which means that alternative use has to be outcompeted, Guyana’s President Bharrat Jagdeo told a panel discussion today, hence Guyana’s move to recreate a model around it.
President Jagdeo, in New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly Meeting was one of five participants discussing, ‘Investing in the world’s forests’, hosted by the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI), a premier gathering for heads of state, business leaders, and nonprofit directors from around the world. The CGI 2010 meeting took place from September 21-23.


President Bharrat Jagdeo , one of five participants on a panel discussing :Investing in the world’s forests , at the Clinton Global Initiative meeting, New York , September 23 .

The panel was moderated John Podesta, President and Chief Executive Officer, Center for American Progress and the other participants were: Wangari Maathai, Founder and Chair, The Green Belt Movement Kuntoro Mangkusubroto, Minister and Head, Presidential Unit for Development, Monitoring and Evaluation, Government of Indonesia, Jakarta; Jonathan Pershing, Deputy Special Envoy for Climate Change, U.S. Department of State; and Kevin Rudd, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia.
“Some years ago we said that we are prepared to put our entire forest in long-term protection if the right incentives could be found, so what we did was to get McKinsey & Company to come in and work with us to put a value to the forest, if we converted the lands to alternative use how much money could we raise every year, and we said if the world were to compensate Guyana at somewhere around that level then we can out compete alternative use for forest and that is the only way we would save forest in the long- term,” President Jagdeo stated.



In responding to moderator Podesta’s question on what are some of the pressures Guyana faces to tear the forest down and to use it for agricultural purposes and how has the Head of State been able to sustain the political momentum to stay on track for what he wants to do, President Jagdeo responded:
“We have many companies that want to come into Guyana and cut the trees down, they would love to have leases but we have to say no to them .There are many people who for subsistence reasons want to cut the trees down; there are those pressures but what has happened? Copenhagen was a disappointment because of the low and less than ambitious targets agreed and there is no offset market for forest Carbon, it is impossible to do and now everyone is saying oh we have a financial crisis so we don’t have public money so if you have limited public money and you cannot get the money from the market so how are we going to generate enough money to out compete the alternative sources?”
He explained that Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), which has seen over 300 consultations, had the indigenous people integrally involved, and the multi stakeholder committee which he chairs meets every week. Additionally Guyana’s Parliament has accepted the LCDS.
However, he questioned whether the international community is ready to keep its part of the bargain and went on to explain that, “it’s mathematically impossible to achieve a two degree target without including forest as part of an abatement solution. The economics is clear, Lord Stern and so many others have done this work; it’s the most cost effective solution, so if we cannot fund the most cost effective, the cheapest of abatement, so how are we going to fund the other abatement solutions? Everyone agreed that this is a low hanging fruit, to define, to deploy renewable energy, or retrofit building or to come up with vehicle emission standard which are all part of the solution years down the line so this could happen now yet we don’t have the resources and somehow in the developed world there is a feeling that only developed countries have political capital to squander,” he noted.
The panelists addressed the role that forests play in sequestering carbon, and the work that needs to be done to empower local populations to earn a living from forests while protecting them at the same time.

Port Kaituma secondary wins JOF Haynes Memorial Inter-Secondary Schools debating competition

More improvements continue to be made in the education system, as Government remains steadfast in its commitment to provide quality education and improve the lives of Guyanese.
            Towards this objective, the Ministry of Education on Tuesday hosted the JOF Haynes Memorial Inter-Secondary Schools debating competition at the Diamond Secondary School auditorium, as part of activities to commemorate Education Month.
            The debating competition took place among students of Diamond Secondary, Region Four, and Port Kaituma Secondary, Region One.


At the head table are Head of the University of Guyana’s Law Department, Professor Calvin Eversley; District Education Officer- Secondary, Lynette Brown and Deputy Chief Education Officer – Development, Bibi Ally; at the Ministry of Education’s Inter-Secondary Schools debating competition.

            Delivering the opening remarks, Distance Chief Executive Officer (development), Bibi Ally said that the annual debating competition is used to celebrate the oratorical expertise of the late JOF Haynes, who was identified as the most brilliant and eminent lawyer of his generation.
            “Joseph Oscar Fitzclarence Haynes was born on July 18, 1912 in New Amsterdam. At the age of 20, he obtained a First-Class Teachers’ Certificate and also passed the London Matriculation Examination,” she said.
            Professor Haynes was also appointed a teacher at the Scot School in New Amsterdam and later the Headmaster of Mara Primary School, Berbice River. In 1942, he completed part two of the Bar Examination and also obtained second-class honours and placed sixth in the world.
            Diamond Secondary, the proposition and Port Kaituma Secondary the opposition debated under the moot: Homework is essential for students’ success.
            Some of the points garnered from the argument of members of the proposition stated that;- homework provides the hub in developing life skills, stimulates creativity, and improve students achievements.
            Members of the opposition in their argument said that while homework is not essential there is no denial of its importance. They also listed successful entrepreneurs and politicians and health pioneers such as Florence Nightingale.
At the end of the contest Port Kaituma Secondary came out as the winner with an average point of 252, compared to 230 from the Diamond Secondary.


Students from the Port Kaituma Secondary School, Region One; who won the debating competition against Diamond Secondary School.  

Shetal Ragnauth of Diamond Secondary copped best debater while Kelly Etwaroo of Port Kaituma Scondary was adjudged best speaker during the presentation.
Chief Judge Lurine Meertins while announcing the results said that she was pleased with the debate since it showed a high level of research conducted.
            Meanwhile, in delivering the feature address, Head of the Law Department, University of Guyana, Professor Calvin Eversley, deemed the debate as an art of advocacy, noting that he was impressed at what he witnessed.
             He also told the participants that if they do what they did in a mutually respectful manner, they would make Guyana proud.
             This year’s winner adds to the Ministry’s past debating champions. These include;- In 2007, Bishops’ High, 2008 Aurora Secondary, Region Two and Anna Regina Secondary, Region Two in 2009.
The activity was also held in keeping with the Education Month theme “Child-Friendly Homes-Child-Friendly Classroom-Quality Education”.

Black Bush man blind after struck by lightening

A 22-year old man has lost his sight after he was struck by lightening on Monday. The young man was identified as Sameer Amin of Yakusari, Black Bush Polder.

            According to reports, Amin around 5;30 pm was standing close to a mesh fence when the lightening struck and went to his eyes, after which he lost consciousnesses and fell to the ground.



Sameer Amin 

After being rushed to the Port Mourant hospital, he regained consciousness an hour later, where he recalled the issue; however, he was unable to open his eyes.

            According to Amin’s mother, Ameena Amin, the following morning, he managed to open his eyes and then realized he could not see. He has since been transferred to a city hospital to undergo additional tests.



Wanted bulletin issued for two men for murder, armed robbery

The police have since issued a wanted bulletin for two men who are being sought for questioning. According to the release, Keron Herbert 24, is wanted for questioning in relation to murder.

Keron Herbert

He is dark in complexion, medium built, 5 feet 5 inches tall and was last known to be living at Lot 31 ‘A’

Morout Square, East

La Penitence.

            While, 22 year old Samuel Fraser is wanted for questioning in relation to a series of robbery-under-arms. Fraser whose last address was given as Liverpool or Cromarty villages, Corentyne is dark in complexion and medium built.

            Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of these men is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 225-6411, 225-2700, 226-2917, 226-1326, 226-2870, 225-6941, 911 or the nearest police station.

            All information will be treated with strict confidence, the release stated.

Developed, developing countries need to be held accountable for MDGs progress - President Jagdeo tells UN summit


President Bharrat Jagdeo on Tuesday joined other world leaders in New York, where they gathered as part of the United Nations (UN) summit on the Millennium Development Goals (MGGs). The summit was called by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban ki-moon to review, progress against the eight development goals agreed by world leaders in 2000.
            During a packed agenda, he also met with former US President Bill Clinton, and conducted a series of meetings with other world leaders, including Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg and Australian Foreign Minister (and former Prime Minister) Kevin Rudd.
Speaking at the United Nations Headquarters to a round table of leaders which addressed progress towards the MDGs, the President stressed the need to focus on a holistic approach to meeting the goals’ targets. He said that while it was right to hold developing countries to account for their progress, it was also essential to hold the developed world to account – and he highlighted what he described as double standards in global trade, coupled with the un-balanced approach taken to combat the financial and climate crises.
On Tuesday morning, President Jagdeo joined former US President Bill Clinton at the opening of the 2010 Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI).
At the opening plenary session, Mr. Clinton and four panelists discussed how corporations, governments, non-profit organisations, foundations, and other stakeholders can collaborate to empower the poor, improve access to education and health care, develop alternative sources of energy, and create a cleaner environment.
Tarja Halonen, president of the Republic of Finland, participated in the panel along with Melinda French Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Robert McDonald, president, chairman, and CEO of Procter & Gamble, and Eric Schmidt, chairman and CEO of Google.
 “CGI members come from 90 different countries, speak many languages, work in all sectors, and approach problems in unique ways,” former President Clinton said. “But together, their desire and capacity to build a better world for our children and grandchildren has resulted in 1,946 commitments, valued at $63 billion dollars, which have already improved nearly 300 million lives."
President Jagdeo will take part in Thursday’s panel session, which will address investing in the world’s forest, one of the seven special sessions set up by Clinton to address key global priorities.
President Jagdeo’s visit continues until Saturday, when he is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly.
The MDGs are  eight international development goals that all 192 UN member  countries  and at least 23 international organizations agreed to achieve by 2015. They were officially established at the Millennium Summit in 2000 where leaders adopted the United Nations Millennium declaration from which the eight goals were promoted. These have 21 targets and a series of measurable indicators for each.
The goals are: eradicate extreme poverty and hunger; achieve universal primary education; promote gender equality and empower women; improve child mortality; improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS and other diseases; ensure environmental sustainability and develop a global partnership for development.

Five charged with Bartica murders

-cop, others for aiding and abetting

Scores of persons gathered to get a glimpse of the five accused as they made their way to the Georgetown, Magistrates’ court for their first court appearance on Monday, September 20, 2010.

During the hearing, Acting Chief Magistrate, Priya Beharry denied bail to the five persons. Among them were a former immigration officer, a serving member of the Guyana Police Force and a woman who were all charged in connection with the double murders at Bartica.

It is alleged that Rawle Newton also known as ‘Satan Ambassador’ during the period September 4-5 at Bartica; Murdered Jainarine Raghubar and Ramdeo Deonarine.

Newton who was also charged with two counts of armed robbery is expected to make his second court appearance on October 27 at the Bartica Magistrates’ Court.

Apart from Michael Newton, the younger brother of murder accused Rawle Newton who was charged; Tactical Service Rank, Constable Marlon Letlow and former Immigration Officer, Linden Scotland was also jointly charged.

The two were not required to plead to the indictable charge, which stated that they relieved, received and maintained Rawle Newton knowing that he murdered, Jainarine Raghubar and Ramdeo Deonarine.

 Meanwhile, Kim Bumbury was charged with aiding and abiding Rawle Newton her reputed husband. It is alleged that Newton went to Bumbery’s home and left a quantity of money and gold with her to keep; she then proceeded to purchase a set of household appliances with the money.

  She was later arrested by ranks of the Guyana Police force after receiving requisite information.

The five were represented by Attorneys-at-Law Peter Hugh, Gordon Gilhuys, Nigel Hughes and Vic Puran, respectively.  

Fire gutted a home at Mahdia

-suspected arsonist on the run

Four people are now homeless after a midnight fire yesterday which completely gutted a two-story house at Seven Miles, Mahdia, Potaro.

            At the time of the fire the building was occupied by Shondell Perry who lived in the upper flat; Sharon Paul her son Jeremiah Paul and her reputed husband Wilbert Scotland, who occupied the bottom flat.

            According to sources from the area, after midnight Perry and her fiancé Gavin Doughlas of David Rose Street Bogotsville had an argument, during which Perry went into the home and refused to open the door; despite numerous attempts by Douglas.

            It was alleged that Douglas, then left the home but returned soon after and began calling for Perry to again open the door. He was then seen pouring a liquid substance believed to be (kerosene), on the building before setting it alight.

            Up to press time, the police are still trying to locate Douglas who is currently on the run.     

Agriculture Minister visits Moruca- to look at other interventions to assure food security

By Erika Haag-Tularam

Farmers of Moruca an Amerindian Village located in the North West District, Region One, were given the opportunity to interact with Agriculture Minister, Robert Persaud and Director of National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI), Dr. Oudho Homenauth, at a farmers’ meeting today.
            The interactive session which was held at the Kumaka Agriculture Extension Centre, Moruca, dealt with issues such as access to market, vaccination of broiler chicks and need for more drainage and irrigation tools; while request was also made for the planting of turmeric, rice and assistance with aquaculture.
            Minister Persaud while addressing the gathering said that the visit was to look at additional interventions and support that can be given to the community to ensure food security is sustained.
“For us hinterland food security is of primary concern and all of our programmes we are aiming to improve food security but also we are looking at how it is we can support you our farmers in becoming much more competitive, so that your farming activities can expand,” he said.


Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud addresses farmers at the Kumaka Agriculture Extension Centre, Moruca

Region One, has over the years been receiving much attention from Government, through a collaborative effort by the Ministries of Agriculture and Amerindian affairs. The sustainable livelihood programme is also another means of developing agricultural activities on a commercial basis.
Farmers have been receiving significant attention with the distribution of spray pumps, planting materials, acoushi ants bait and chemicals, and interventions such as the provision of livestock (genetic) support were also given.
Minister Persaud said that efforts are also being made to develop new crops that can withstand perishability, since the shelf life of crops have been a major issue, as it relates to transport of produce for market purposes.  
            Turmeric, ginger, nutmeg and black pepper are the targeted new crops and are currently in high demand.
            “If we can develop these in a large scale, because you can have turmeric 4-5 months and it will not damage; and because of your geographical location it would require you moving from one location, it can withstand that kind of rigour,” the Minister posited.
            Support will also be given as it relates to processing, since it can help to create another industry.
            The issue of extension services is also high on the Ministry’s agenda and according to the subject Minister it is important. Two additional extension staff will be added to complement to two others currently servicing the area.
            An All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), boat and engine were made available to facilitate the extension officers’ visits to riverain areas.
              Minister Persaud indicated that Government has expended approximately $1.5M over the last months, to ramp up the capability of services offered to farmers. Training of farmers will also be given in this regard; since the Ministry cannot afford to have a officer stationed in each village.
            He said sound-agriculture enterprises will also be developed to deal effectively with handling and marketing of produce, noting that, “We don’t want you to forever remain as farmers, but to be agriculture entrepreneur, so that you can manage your business. We need you to work with us to do this as a partnership.”


Farmers at the Kumaka Agriculture Extension Centre, Moruca

            In developing the livestock sector in the area, a vet is currently stationed in the area to give support to farmers at it relates to proper husbandry.
             The Agriculture Minister also came in for high support from farmers as it relates to the support given by his Ministry in the livestock sector, noting that it will succeed in attaining food security, to supply the Caribbean and beyond.
            Minister Persaud also committed to deploying an excavator to the areas to assist in digging ponds for Aquaculture purposes farms while training will be conducted with farmers to effectively deal with the trade.
Cutlass, shovels, hoes, axes, chemicals and ant baits were also donated to the farmers.

Minister Persaud donates cassava mill to Wauna Women’s group
-during farmers meeting
By Erika Haag-Tularam

Residents of Mabaruma, Region One whose livelihood were affected due to the recent spring tide were today given an opportunity to interact with Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud, during a farmers’ meeting at the Agriculture Extension Centre, Mabaruma.
            He also took the opportunity to hand over a $750,000 cassava mill that will be serving satellite communities in the area; to reduce labour intensive tasks and improve their living conditions.
            The Minister was accompanied by Director of the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Dr. Oudho Homenauth, Regional Chairman, Fermin Singh and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Admin), Ministry of Agriculture, George Jarvis.
              Minister Persaud while delivering remarks said that Government has been placing significant emphasis on agriculture in diversifying the base.
            As such, an excavator was handed over to the region to deal effectively with emergency drainage works in making farms more resilient.


Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud (second from left), flanked by Director of National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Dr. Oudho Homenauth, Regional Chairman, Fermin Singh and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Admin), Ministry of Agriculture, George Jarvis, during farmers’ meeting at the Agriculture Extension Centre, Mabaruma

            “It has been an ongoing effort by our Government; but as we make progress in this regard there will be difficulties and there will be new challenges…we have to be much more prepared for climate change.”
             “Throughout our country we will continue to deal with the erratic weather that is taking place. But we also have to look to working with farmers, look at how we can make our farming activities, climate resilient,” he said.
            To respond and deal effectively with the challenges, the Ministry of Agriculture will be looking at a three-pronged approach. This will see emphasis being placed on assistance to get farmers back to the land, lift and repair areas where spring tide caused flooding and identify areas where new farming can commence.


Attendees during farmers meeting at the Agriculture Extension Centre, Mabaruma.

             As such, Minister Persaud committed to sending an engineer and an excavator to determine the areas and commence D&I work, to have a combined approach to help restore damaged areas.  
            “There should be no preference as it relates to small or large farmers. We want to help every farmer so we have outlined three areas of assistance,” he said.
            An assessment has been conducted by the agriculture staff, identifying planting materials needed. Minister Persaud also indicated that a wider block of land will be developed in higher areas and then allocated to farmers.
Representatives of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), will also meet with farmers who desire to start planting rice.

18 year-old mother allegedly dumps baby in pit latrine


An eighteen year old Parika Facade resident is now in Police custody after the decomposed body of her 8 month daughter was retrieved from a pit latrine in the yard behind her house. The baby is suspected to have been killed sometime on Monday and then wrapped in a sheet, towel and then a hammock and placed in the latrine pit.

The woman who is originally from Lethem is named Sattie. The Police was called in after neighbors did not see the woman with the baby. When questioned as to the baby's wherabouts she gave conflicting reports. "Sattie said she gave away the baby in one instance and her sister from Lethem took the baby with her," in another instance the neighbour reported. A neighbor told Guyana Times that the baby normally cries alot. She was born without an anus and suffered from a number of ailments. The child used to excrete through a tube on the side of her stomach.

When asked, neighbours said the young mother never showed any signs of frustration and they were baffled as to why she would harm the child. At the time of the incident, the sister in law of the accused related that her brother was not the father of the child but he "took up," with the girl after they met while her daughter was in hospital. The sister-in-law related that her brother felt sorry for Sattie and took her in. However since going to the interior to work, neighbours have reported that Sattie is a regular at going out at nights and leaving the baby at home. This prompted them to check for the baby after they heard no sound from the house. 

Neighbours believed she was lying after the two conflicting reports and called in the Police. A Post Mortem examination of the baby is to be performed on the remains to determine the cause of death and an according charge will be issued if the child was killed.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force has since refuted claims in some sections of the media, which claimed that the teen mother has since confessed to killing her eight-month old child.

Minister Persaud says investments growing in Guyana

-in excess of $1.5B in agriculture proposals received thus far

Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud while speaking on investments in commercial agriculture indicated that Guyana currently has vast areas that can be put under productive use and Government has been receiving positive responce with proposals thus far, for the first phase of investment in commercial agriculture, being in excess of $1.5B.

            This disclosure came while addressing scores of Moco-Moco, Region Nine residents during the launch of the first 82 acres of rice under the US$643,000 ($128.6M), Hinterland Rice and Beans project on Thursday.

            “This will see different investors will be coming and getting involved in various aspects of agriculture. We already have a group out of the Caribbean, the Santa Fe Enterprise and they are already investing $156M alone in getting that enterprise,” he said.

            A proposal with the Brazilian rice farmers has been received and is currently being examined.

According to Minister Persaud any investor who comes, must first have a good track record and adhere to Guyana’s rules before they are given permission to do business.

            Lands have already been allocated for the construction of a major rice seed facility in Guyana. This will be used to develop hybrid rice seed to supply the Brazilian market and beyond.

            Minister Persaud said that Caribbean Chemicals is also looking to partner with Brazil in large scale agriculture in this regard and noted that investments are growing in Guyana through stringent measures by Government.

            “Some of the other enterprises that are expanding as a result of the (Tukutu) bridge are developing and have submitted proposals for development of agro-enterprises. As part of our two-pronged approach in developing commercial agriculture, we are advancing that process,” Minister Persaud stressed.

            Government has also been encouraging investors to develop partnerships with local communities so that they are not disadvantaged by their presence. This is to ensure that local companies also receive support from Government so that even growth and prosperity can be achieved.

            This according to the Agriculture Minister, is to transform the village economies and enhance the level of prosperity in the process of moving forward.

            “At the Ministry of Agriculture we are also ramping up our support services. We will be bringing in more vets and trained officers in the villages as we work with you in developing adaptation as we are faced with the effects of climate change,” he said.

             

           

   

Amerindian village economies being boosted  

-Ministers Persaud and Sukhai witness first harvesting of 82 acres of rice in Region 9  

Georgetown, GINA, September 17, 2010

Government continues to work assiduously to encourage the development of Amerindian village economies by implementing initiatives that will ensure food security is maintained in hinterland communities; as well as provide employment for some persons to improve their living conditions.

            Towards this objective, Ministers of Agriculture and Amerindian Affairs, Robert Persaud and Pauline Sukhai respectively, witnessed the first harvesting of the US$643,000 ($128.6M), hinterland rice and beans project.

            The project, which was dedicated to the memory of the late Minister within the Ministry of Education, Dr. Desrey Fox; is aimed at developing savannah agriculture, to increase crop production and to minimize poverty in the villages.

            Minister Persaud while delivering the feature address during the ceremony, held at Moco-Moco village, Region Nine, emphasised the need for residents to commit themselves to the successful continuation of the project, since it is part of the Ministry’s thrust to enhance food security and self-sufficiency within hinterland communities.  

            “This for us is an important objective and it’s an area where our President has been giving a lot of emphasis. For us that is a priority, ensuring that our hinterland communities develop the capacity and capabilities to produce food to not only take care of the communities’ need, but also for us to take it to the next level,” he said.

              He stated that the initiative is to ensure that the food production system, to transform subsistence agriculture to commercial agriculture is developed. This will enable Guyana to become the leading exporter of food to the Caribbean and beyond.

            According to Minister Persaud, the Ministry has previously not been so successful in the hinterland and as such, Government will continue to place a lot of emphasis in ensuring that the transformation takes place.

Challenges

While indicating that hinterland communities possess certain vulnerabilities, Minister Persaud said that through the will and determination of Guyana’s first people, the country has been able to overcome such challenges.

            “That is why our Gov’t has made it clear that based on the resources available, we will invest in these communities to ensure that no community is left behind and that is our motto. We have always emphasised an evenhanded approach to development,” the Minister indicated.

            While mentioning the area’s prospects, the Agriculture Minister said that the Rupununi savannahs hold the greatest potential as it relates to commercialisation of agriculture within hinterland communities, noting that there is no reason why the area cannot succeed as Brazil.

            Minister Persaud also spoke of Guyana’s bilateral agreements with Brazil which saw the signing of five cooperation agreements which will focus on how the country’s resources can be utilised on a commercial level.

            “Our communities do not have the amount of resources and the expertise that are so necessary to bring these lands under commercial scale agriculture. This has seen us investing in different communities and crops looking at different approaches and this is an example where we have been able to engage our partners.”

            The 82 acres of rice will produce approximately 360 tonnes of rice.

             The project since its implementation has been receiving the assistance of the Guyana Rice Development Board, the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI).

            Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai said that the PPP/C Government in its manifesto alluded to the commitment to turn around the agriculture sector, from a position of serious downturn.

            “I am assured by the reports that have been submitted to my Ministry by the sector Ministry, that there is a very good commitment towards the project by the village,” she said.

            While speaking of the village’s history, Minister Sukhai said that the projects should be an inspiration to the graduating students, to put into practice what they have learnt. She also lauded the villagers for the many developments in the area thus far.

            She told the villagers that they are leading by example noting that the initiatives also open up another ‘vista’ for the region since it will enable them to be pioneering the production of food, that can reduce the reliance for food from Georgetown.

            “Gov’t is once more demonstrating that in partnership with the people we can have a very successful livelihood foundation laid for our people. I am sure when the other communities come on board that this region will be able to feed itself adequately and ensure the employment is guaranteed for our people,” she posited.

            The Guyana Rice Development Board, Deputy General Manager, Madanlall Ramraj, while giving an overview of the project, said that it commenced in July 2009 and will be implemented in nine villages in Region Nine.

             The three-year initiative is to improve the livelihood of communities by making them food secure.

Successes

Ramraj said that while there have been some setbacks with wild animals and irrigation the project has thus far, been successful.  

            “From November 2009 to April 2010 we started moving in equipment and supplies into Region Nine and by March 24 we are able to have a tractor with trailer and plough arriving in Lethem.”

            To date, 82 acres of rice have been cultivated which included 32 acres of F710 and 50 acres of BR444 and 10 acres of beans have been planted.

            The 82 acres have been harvested while the beans will be ready for harvesting shortly.

            An $11.8M bond has also been completed which will be used for storing equipment, machines and chemicals coupled with a small drying floor attached to the bond to assist farmers.  

            The initiative was also highly praised by the President of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce, Alfred Ramsaran, Toshao of Moco-Moco, James George and Regional Chairman, Clarindo Lucas.

            Also accompanying Minister Persaud were:- General Manager, GRDB Jagnarine Singh, Director of the National Dairy Development Programme, Dr. Dwight Waldron, Deputy Permanent Secretary (finance), Ministry of Agriculture, Prema Roopnarine, Chief Hydromet Officer, Bhaleka Suelall-Persaud and technical officers from the Ministry.   

            The hinterland rice and beans project is a joint venture between the Governments of Guyana and Spain, through the Spanish Development Agency.

           

             

           

           

            

           

        

Guyana partners with UNODC in terrorism fight
-initiative seen as timely 

The Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) today engaged relevant stakeholders from several organisations including the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a one-day workshop to discuss anti-terrorism initiatives by Government.
            At the forum, the issues of global legal framework against terrorism, provision of technical assistance, and the requirements of implementing the United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 1373, were discussed. 
            Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee in his remarks welcomed the collaboration between the Government of Guyana and the UNODC, particularly in the area of           technical assistance being provided to Guyana to aid in the fight against terrorism at the national level.
            He cautioned against viewing terrorism only as an “international” problem and disclosed that Guyana has ratified 12 of the 16 United Nations instruments against terrorism and is in the drafting an Anti-Terrorism Bill.
            Representative of the UNODC, Hernan Longo said that the objective of the workshop was to provide Guyana with assistance in incorporating the UN anti-terrorism instruments into its domestic laws, as part of the global legal framework against terrorism.
            The workshop was seen as timely, especially since the world is reflecting on the 9/11 attacks, in the United States.
            The UNODC was established in 1997 to assist the UN in better addressing a coordinated, comprehensive response to the interrelated issues of illicit trafficking in and abuse of drugs, crime prevention and criminal justice, international terrorism, and corruption.
            Its goals are pursued through research, guidance and support to governments in the adoption and implementation of various crime, drug, terrorism, and corruption-related conventions, treaties and protocols, as well as technical/financial assistance.

La Penitence health centre celebrates one year with mini fair
-to become annual feature, Minister Ramsaran

The Ministry of Health held a one day mini health fair at the La Penitence health centre today, to celebrate its first year in operation.
            The fair featured booths displaying the products and services of various arms of the Ministry of Health, including the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Center and the Health Services Unit, Ministry of Health.
            The facility offers a range of services to the residents of La Penitence and surrounding communities including treatment of chronic diseases, foot care (wrapping and dressing), and a dental and eye care clinics.

A patient is being attended to by the eye specialist at the East La Penitence health centre

            Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, Minister in the Ministry of Health, said that the area was chosen because of the need to bring these types of services to those Guyanese who live in low income bracket areas.
            The Minister noted that in proceeding with the health centre’s construction, there was a high level of community involvement and participation, and already Government has delivered on most of the promises made to the residents.

A primary school student is receiving dental treatment in the facility’s new dental unit

            The clinic boasts a pharmacy, a screening room for women wishing to be screened for cervical cancer using the visual Inspection with Acetic acid (VIA) method, a refraction room for eye testing, and ward-like facilities for foot care. There is also a newly donated dental unit, which will see constant usage as of the new month. An external waiting area has been added, and according to Minister Ramsaran can be used for community development purposes.

Primary school students gather at the health centre’s mini health fair in commemoration of its one year anniversary

            There is a permanent doctor on staff and the clinic days for the various services are rotated for optimum efficiency.
            It was just over a year ago that the United States Army Southern command, New Horizons, handed over the then newly constructed building to the Ministry of Health.

British film producer captivated by Guyana’s natural wonders
…country listed among World’s 101 Amazing Adventures

Guyana will be featured in the “101 Amazing Adventures of the World” a book currently being chronicled by popular British film producer and creative director, Russell Malkin who visited Guyana recently to explore its natural wonders.
According to a release from the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Malkin said he is compiling an inspirational adventure book to inspire people to go out and have their own adventures.
Malkin believes that many people have not truly discovered what Guyana has to offer unlike him. He was captivated by Guyana during the 22nd Annual British Bird watching Fair in Rutland Water, England last month.
Malkin, who also visited the Dadanawa ranch which was once the world’s largest cattle ranch said he rode with the vaqueros and this was a great experience which is not normally available to tourists in such raw form. He was fascinated with the vaqueros (cow boys) as it is unusual to see the traditional cowboys.
The expedition leader also visited Surama which he described as “another epic journey” and thinks that it is a great idea to have the eco-lodge managed by the village.
Malkin and his photographer Victoria Morton also took take part in Surama village Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations and had the opportunity to experience the lifestyle and customs of the indigenous people.

British explorer Russell Malkin and photographer Victoria Morton on a recent visit to Guyana

“It was a good adventure and exciting. It was unique and that is what I was looking for,” he said.
Referring to the majestic Kaieteur Falls, Malkin said it is unbelievably unique and is “one of the most stunning natural sites I have seen anywhere” since it is completely untouched and surrounded by pristine rainforest.
Malkin said everyone now has more choices than before but not everyone has the confidence to try something new so his book is about showing them that this is possible and to reassure people that they can get out of their comfort zone.
Guyana is different from all the other countries in South America, and being an English-speaking country puts it at an advantage, he said.
Morton, who also does video recording and information gathering, said the experience was interesting and diverse and she too was captivated by the Kaieteur Falls which she said is “absolutely spectacular and unique and spiritual.”
She alluded to the country’s amazing wildlife noting that it would make for an interesting alternative to the safari in Africa. She said its difference would make it appealing even for a younger generation because of its great people and adventurous environment.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Mr. Manniram Prashad said ‘Destination Guyana’ continues to attract more attention with its immense ecological and adventure tourism potential.
Such travel stories, he said, will also help to raise the destination’s profile and create more awareness about Guyana in keeping with both the Ministry’s and GTA’s awareness strategy.
Guyana has been featured in various international travel magazines and shows, such as the BBC’s three-part series, ‘The Lost Land of the Jaguar’, and the popular United States reality television show ‘Reel and Birding adventures.
During the four-day visit Malkin, Morton and Wilderness Explorer Tour Guide Luke Johnson travelled through neighbouring Brazil.
Malkin is also the producer and director of three motorcycle adventure television documentaries: Long Way Round, Race to Dakar, and Long Way Down featuring Charlie Boorman and Ewan McGregor.
He also founded the television production company ‘Big Earth’ and has 20 years experience in putting together international events and expeditions.
Malkin’s book is expected to be released during March to April 2011.

Minister Persaud addresses issues of Windsor Forest residents

By Erika Haag-Tularam

Rice farmers was given the opportunity to voice their concerns as it relates to matters affecting their livelihood, during a farmers’ meeting with Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud on Monday.
            At the session representatives from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), and the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) in attendance, were held at the Windsor Forest Primary school, West Coast Demerara.
              Some of the issues raised were lands for cattle farmers, blockage of the façade at Windsor Forest School, drying facility, access to dams at Blankenburg and dredging of outfall channel at Windsor Forest old pump station.
            Minister Persaud in remarks emphasised the need for more works to be done at the Regional level to have a better chance at enhancing the situations that are currently facing rice farmers.
Recalling the challenges faced during the first crop, as it relates to harvesting of rice, Minister Persaud encourages the farmers to maximize on the limited resources; since the equipment are costly.
“We are monitoring the works that are to be done in the areas. To purchase a bulldozer it would cost us some $44M but because dam maintenance is critical. We are currently looking to buy more,” he said.
            On the issue of more lands for agriculture purposes, the Agriculture Minister said that Government is looking at developing additional lands. This is intended to bring some amount of consistency among rice and livestock farmers.
            Citing the need for more to be done, he said that with the limited resources available the Administration is looking at infrastructure and interventions to effectively deal with the changing weather pattern.
            However, he indicated that notwithstanding the unpredictability of the weather pattern, the Ministry will continue to do all in its power to ensure that farming and other activities are protected.
            In anticipation of a weather pattern that may become more extreme, Government is continuing to invest in infrastructure.
            “We are highly dependent on agriculture which is highly sensitive to weather so everyone has to give their support, because we also have to diversify our economy and look at new sources in terms of economic wealth and opportunities,” he added. 
Rice cultivation
As part of Government’s renewed thrust to modernise the agriculture sector, the issue of market opportunity will be significantly enhanced as farmers move into the second crop.
              He noted that while the country on the international market is considered as price takers; farmers should ensure that all the players in the rice industry support the initiative.
              “As we move into a La Nina situation I urge you to be very alert and mobilized since we will be experiencing above normal rainfall.”
            While speaking on the issue of farmers being owed by the Mahaicony Rice Mill, the Agriculture Minister indicated that the auditing of all records will commence on September 16.
            “We have put the laws in place to protect farmers, but the laws are nothing if they are not used. Those farmers who have outstanding issues we will provide free legal advice as to what is taking place in this regard; since there is no reason why farmers should not be paid,” he stressed.
            The GRDB and the Guyana Rice Producers Association have since been ensuring that laws put in place to govern the rights of rice farmers are adhered to by millers.

First ever women community policing convention held

- aims to involve women in communal law and order process

By Erika Haag-Tularam

The security of communities is important to this administration and to further boost law enforcement; the Ministry of Home Affairs hosted its first ever Community Policing Women’s Convention today.  

            The initiative which was held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, under the theme “Working towards safer communities” is a collaborative effort with the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security.

            Representatives from A, B, C, D, E, F and G community policing Groups were present, where issues such as trafficking in persons (TIP), domestic violence, sexual harassment, noise nuisance, roles of rural constables, arrest and patrols, road safety and the role of women in community policing, were discussed.

            Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee while delivering the feature address emphasised the need for closer collaboration at a community level noting that women can play an integral role in supporting their male counterpart in maintaining order within their respective communities.

He noted that the event which is the first national conference ever held for women in community policing; is an indication of Government’s commitment to empowering women in self sufficiency and national development in the process.

             Minister Rohee while expressing his optimism that the session would be beneficial to the women said that it would clearly aid them in understanding their role in which should not be taken for granted.

            This, he said, is the reason several organisations in society are playing a significant role to further enhance their lives.

            While noting that law enforcement cannot be solely executed by the male gender alone, the Minister responsible for security also urged the attendees to lend full support to the police and other law enforcement agencies in the struggle for safety and security.

            Speaking on the issue of domestic violence, Minister Rohee said it is reality since more women in society are being taken advantage of on a daily basis and, as such, it is time for the scourge to come to an end.

            Government has recognised that domestic violence is the most pervasive form of interpersonal violence in Guyana and through its National Policy on Domestic Violence; hopes to eliminate the trait from society.

            In 1996 the Domestic Violence Legislation was enacted. The National policy on Domestic Violence was launched in 2008.

            Commissioner of Police, Henry Greene, said that it is important for women to be sensitised on the role they can play at the community level; since the constitution requires that everyone has a responsibility to ensuring a community safe.

            While reading the Police Act, Commissioner Greene said that it stipulates that any members of society can be called upon to render assistance to the cause of law and order, failing which that person can be prosecuted.

            Speaking on the importance of community policing, Greene said that the Police Force has seen a decline in CPGs since the crime spree of 2002 which made a significant impact on their functions.

            “The fact that we were dealing with people with heavy machinery (weapons) they became afraid, but after the death of ‘Fineman’ persons are now willingly offering their services to the Guyana Police Force,” he said.

            While calling for consistency in community policing groups, the Top Cop told them that they can also be integrally involved in youth work, and financial and traffic lecturers at the community level.