Guyana working towards satisfying Montreal Protocol
-Agri Ministry launches Code of Good Practice Manual for Refrigeration Technicians

Guyana is serious about reducing carbon emissions in the atmosphere in an effort to decrease the depletion of the ozone layer. As such, the country has been actively pursuing its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) that has received worldwide recognition.

Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud distributes Code of Good Practice Manual for Refrigeration Technicians to stakeholders at the Ministry of Agriculture

            Moreover, fulfilling the obligations of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is a commitment by Government, which has seen the undertaking of several initiatives particularly in the air-conditioning and refrigeration industry.
On tuesday, Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud joined stakeholders in launching the Code of Good Practice Manual for Refrigeration Technicians, at the Ministry of Agriculture.
“The fact that we are doing this today, which is the second day of the Technical Meeting taking place in Cancun, is important and symbolic and it reaffirms our commitment in terms of playing a positive role that we have done in our LCDS,” he said.
As a developing nation with vital forest resource, Guyana has been active in combating climate change. However, besides the country’s LCDS, Guyana has been adhering to the Montreal Protocol, hence pursuing other ways in reducing carbon emissions.

Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud addresses stakeholders at the launching of the Code of Good Practice Manual for Refrigeration Technicians, at the Ministry of Agriculture

The manual, which comes under the Terminal Phase-out Management Plan Project, outlines the proper usage of refrigerators and air-conditioners that would lead to the reduction in greenhouse gas emission thus contributing to the global efforts to combat potential impacts of climate change.
“I am happy that once again under this project we are able to make some progress in terms of satisfying our obligations under the Montreal Protocol in this regard and also working with you important stakeholders in building capacity and supporting you that you can continue to be compliant,” Minister Persaud said.
            He noted that a lot of work has been dedicated towards the development of the Code of Good Practice Manual and stakeholders should utilise it as a lasting guide when pursuing their activities.
            Since the commencement of the project, stakeholders have been active and technicians trained to build capacity and resources, so that they can expedite their duties, as it were less of a humbug and produce positive outcome because of what is occurring globally, Minister Persaud indicated.
            “Guyana has always prided ourselves dealing especially with the environment, to be a leader and to the fact that we have already exceeded the target set by this project already I think its something we should all be proud of,” he stated.
            Another demonstration of Government’s commitment towards combating Climate Change is the recent approval of contracts by Cabinet for the supply of additional support for some stakeholders, in terms of equipment and testing.
 “This is just one in the stream of interventions and support that we hope will allow you to build capacity so as to undertake the practice in refrigeration and also in your other activities,” Minister Persaud said.
In addition to the launching of this significant manual, stakeholders focused on the resuscitation of the Guyana Air-condition, Refrigeration and Ventilation Association (GARVA).

Stakeholders in attendance at the launching of the launching of the Code of Good Practice Manual for Refrigeration Technicians, at the Ministry of Agriculture

            Minister Persaud highlighted that stakeholders need to work to make GARVA strong as a group and a community.
It needs to be a functioning association and it should be noted that this project has a life and even when it ends stakeholders must continue what has been disseminated so that Guyana can continue to a play a role in the reduction of climate change.
            Earlier in the year, refrigeration equipment valued more than $20M were handed over by the Ministry of Agriculture’s Hydrometeorlogical Service, National Ozone Action Unit to stakeholders of various organisations Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Training Centre; Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre; Anna Regina Technical Institute; New Amsterdam Training Institute (NATI); and Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI).
            Domestic refrigeration accounts for less than 1% of HFC (hydrofluocarbon) consumption in the refrigeration/ AC sector and approximately 11% of HFC consumption in the foams sector; combined, this accounts for nearly 2% of global HFC consumption in 2010.
            Developing countries account for approximately 12% of the global HFCs consumed as refrigerants and blowing agents within the domestic refrigerants end-use.

PNC/R Parliamentarian Winston Murray succumbs

The People’s National Congress Reform, Members of Parliament and possible Presidential Candidate, Winston Murray has died while still on life support, according to reports reaching our blog.

            The 69-year-old succumb at approximately 07:20 hrs last evening, two weeks after collapsing on the East Bank. After being rushed to the Balwant Singh Hospital and later transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation; it was revealed that Murray suffered from severe haemorraghing in the brain.

             He was later pronounced brain dead by neurosurgeon Dr. Ivor Crandon who was flown in from Jamaica on a flight chartered by Government.

            Prior to the news of his demise, condolences have been flowing in from politicians leaders in Guyana, friends and supporters from across the country, who all described Murray as an outstanding individual and a decent politician.

            President Bharrat Jagdeo in a statement last evening called Murray a dedicated Guyanese who served his country with distinction and dignity.

            “Mr. Murray’s passing has robbed the country and especially the National Assembly of an articulate and intelligent debater whose presentation in the House were always of an exceptional high standard,” according to the release.

            Leader of the PNC/R also referred to Murray as a stalwart, since he (Murray), has given loyal and dedicated service both in and out of Government. Murray leaves to mourn his wife Marva Murray and children.  

            Details of his funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Society must practice safe driving to ensure road fatalities are minimized-Minister Rohee during National Road Safety annual walk

The National Road Safety Council in a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Guyana Police Force on Sunday observed ‘World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims’ with a walk from the intersection of the University of Guyana, Turkeyen to the junction at Sheriff Street.
The activity was held under the theme, “Fast Driving Takes Lives, Careful Driving Saves Lives.”
             Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee who delivered the key address at the event called on society to take heed and act now, since road safety is everyone’s business and, not just a matter for the Guyana Police Force.


Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee addressing the gathering during the National Road Safety Council’s annual Road Safety Walk

            While sympathising with the many that lost their loved ones as a result of accidents on the country’s roadways, the Home Affairs Minister said that the activities held in recognition of ‘Road Safety Month’ serve to remind people of the necessity to maintain safety on the roads.
            “We must always continue to talk about road safety in respect of what job we do. This year I am pleased with the number of activities hosted by the National Road Safety Council to sensitise persons about road fatalities, and which has contributed significantly to the consciousness of the subject,” he said.
            Minister Rohee pointed out that notwithstanding the laws passed in the National Assembly and the enforcement of the latter by the Guyana Police Force and the council; there are still errant road users whose actions result in the loss of innocent lives.
            As such, he stated that the sensitisation of society on the importance of not speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol cannot be stopped.


Members of Community Policing Groups during the National Road Safety Council’s annual Road Safety Walk

“We cannot give up but we need to further expand our interest and to continue to hold different activities to ensure that people are more aware of the dangers of speeding,” he indicated.
            According to the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department to date, the statistics have shown that there are 108 road fatalities compared to 104 for last year for the corresponding period.
            Of the figure seven have been listed as children and as such, the Guyana Police Force has been ramping-up patrols to ensure that motorists, pedestrians and pedal cyclists  comply with the road safety rules and regulations.
            The road march also saw the participation of Community Policing Groups, Scouts and members of the Mothers in Black Group. 

PPP’s anniversary represents 60 years of struggle for a better way of life –President Jagdeo

Hundreds turned out on Saturday evening to celebrate with Government functionaries, as the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) celebrated its 60th Anniversary, with a dinner at the Princess International Hotel, Providence.
            The evening was filled with reflections on the party’s struggle and sacrifices to obtain independence - one of the many significant developmental achievements under its leadership over the years.
           President Bharrat Jagdeo expressed appreciation for the support and confidence given by Guyanese to the party during its tenure in office.
            He noted that the anniversary celebration was to observe 60-years of struggle for a better way of life for society. While boasting of the many achievements in each sector of the economy, the Head-of-State alluded to his recent visit to Suriname, indicating that Guyana’s rice industry compared to its eastern neighbour has blossomed since 1992.
            Recalling the struggle, President Jagdeo said that persons were once treated like second class citizens.


President Bharrat Jagdeo speaking at the PPP’s 60th anniversary dinner at the Princess Hotel

            “Our past leaders had a vision to change that and to change the condition under which our people lived. The PPP which was the first political party in Guyana did that and will continue to ensure that our people’s best interest is addressed,” he said.
            This, he said, was done under several principles namely that the country must be internationalist in outlook; belonging to all people regardless of race or religion.
            “Today we are fighting a different form of struggle; our party now is in power and the struggle has not ended when you assume power. It intensifies because now you have the ability to make policies to make changes in people’s lives,” he posited.

President Bharrat Jagdeo greets attendees at the PPP’s 60th anniversary dinner at the Princess Hotel

            President Jagdeo pointed out that because the party has been firm in its outlook, it is now capable of confronting challenges that are oftentimes faced.
            While speaking of the country’s achievements, he stated that most of the Caribbean countries that were doing far better than Guyana did not have the fiscal room that is now enjoyed by this country.
            The Head-of-State in conclusion stated that while the party now faces new challenges it will remain positive and steadfast to further improve the lives of the people it serves. 
            PPP/C General Secretary, Donald Ramoutar, while lauding the support the party has received, said that the future of Guyana is linked to the PPP since the country was still not free when the party took up office in 1992.


PPP General Secretary Donald Ramotar speaking at the party’s 60th anniversary dinner at the Princess Hotel

            He stated that freedom and social liberation are two of the conditions dealt with under the party’s fight for fundamental human rights that people now enjoy.
            “Many of our people take for granted some of the freedoms we have today. In the entire crisis that we have had our country has managed to avoid the worst circumstances of the financial and economic crisis and that is due to democracy that we have entrenched in society.”

President Bharrat Jagdeo sharing a light moment with attendees at the PPP’s 60th anniversary dinner at the Princess Hotel


          “We provided correct leadership and we were rewarded with the confidence and support of you the people. As we go forward to build our country and as we realise the potentials, we once again look forward for your support,” he noted.
            After the ceremony the President the opportunity to greet and mingle with attendees.