ARCHIVES FOR MAY 19 2008
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President Jagdeo, Harrison Ford participate in CI’s global awareness campaign
GUYANA’s President, Bharrat Jagdeo, is scheduled to participate in a Conservation International’s (CI’s) press conference tomorrow in New York which aims to start a global awareness campaign on the vital and often overlooked role forests play as an immediate and cost-effective solution for climate change.

The President along with leading Hollywood actor and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of CI, Harrison Ford, the Chief Executive Officer of CI, Peter Seligmann, and the President of CI, Russ Mittermeier will be hosting the press conference.

CI’s ‘Lost there, felt here’ campaign will be launched tomorrow at the Ambassador II Ballroom in New York with a provocative new public service announcement featuring Harrison Ford, the organisation said.

The central message of the campaign is to show how destroying tropical forest in Guyana and other places hurts people globally. The public service announcement will be premiered with President Jagdeo, Ford, and experts from CI taking questions about the role of tropical forest conservation in a global climate change solution, according to CI.

Last year, President Jagdeo indicated government’s willingness to work with bilateral donors in the sustainable use of the country’s forest.

“What we’re saying is that we would in Guyana, ensure guaranteed sustainable forestry practices as well as focus heavily on conservation if there is economic reward for that and that we’re prepared to work with bilateral donors, as well as commercial entities to put this to the market or to guarantee a financial flow to the country,” President Jagdeo had said then.

Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development which is nearly one million acre (371,000 hectares) of forest was donated by Guyana to show how tropical forests can be conserved and sustainably used to provide ecological, social and economic benefits to local, national and international communities. (GINA)

Minibus, car collision result in passenger’s hand crushed
A 54-year-old sand blaster and trawler maintenance operator employed with Prettipaul Singh will be unable to use his left hand for some time, after being involved in an accident between a minibus and a motor car in the city yesterday.

The accident which occurred at the junction of Garnett and Middleton Street, Campbellville, around 13:45 hours resulted in Carlton Lewis of 97 Buxton Middle Walk, having three of his fingers crushed. Two were immediately severed and doctors are working to save the third. Meanwhile, having sustained a huge puncture in the region of the wrist, he is also in danger of losing the lower left arm.

Lewis was among several persons injured and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH), after a motor car travelling south along Middleton Street, reportedly jumped the major road and crashed into a route 48 minibus BHH 6992 proceeding west along Garnett Street. The bus which plies the Stabroek/Sophia route was on a return trip to Stabroek.

Lewis whose condition is being closely monitored in the GPH, recalled that he was seated in the front left hand corner of the minibus and his hand was partially out of the window. He said that when the tow vehicles collided, the bus was thrown on its left side, and skidded. In the process, his left hand was severely damaged.

Also injured in the accident was the minibus conductor - Eon Sancho of Victoria, East Coast Demerara who received several injuries to the body, including his hand and feet.

The driver of the minibus, Wayneright Hodge, fortunately escaped unscathed. Also unhurt was the driver of motor car PKK 6729 Gordon Sutherland of Triumph, East Coast Demerara, who told Guyana Chronicle that the bus was speeding and he tried to avoid it.

Several other passengers who received minor injuries were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) where they were treated and discharged.
(Priya Nauth and Shirley Thomas)

Defence winds up submissions in Ross’ court martial case
By Wendella Davidson
THE defence in the state versus Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Tony Ross court martial closed its case on Friday and will begin its closing address today.

Defence lawyer, Leslie Sobers, announced the closure on completion of testimony by the final witness for the defence retired Lt. Col. Gordon Benn.

Benn was called to the witness stand on Thursday last to give evidence in support of Ross and when the adjournment was taken, was still being cross-examined by State Prosecutor, Melissa Yearwood-Stewart.

On Friday he spent another lengthy session in the box as the prosecutor garnered evidence on the army’s procedure of “issuing”, “assigning” and “allocation” of weapons, and who had the authority to do so.

The prosecution referred on several occasions to two defence exhibits, which were previously tendered as evidence – a document containing instruction notes and a letter which the witness, in his capacity as Staff Officer1 G3 (SOI G3) between 2004 and February 2006, with responsibility for operations and training, had written to the Base Commander, Base Camp Ayanganna (BCA).

During those instances, the witness was asked to read the specific portions of interest to the prosecution.

A member of the panel had also sought clarification from the witness, based on his knowledge, on the appointment of Base Commander and Commander of the Composite Battalion of BCA.

And the witnesses responded that based on his recollection, the appointment was handed down by the Chief-of-Staff (COS). The COS had the prerogative of selecting the Composite Battalion Commander, which he stated was not an established position.

As such, the Battalion Commander was not always the base Commander and vice versa.

Ross is charged on three counts of conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline, contrary to Section 75 of the Defence Act, Chapter 15:01 and one count of neglect to the prejudice of good order and military discipline, contrary to Section 75 of the Defence Act, Chapter 15: 01.

The charges were instituted against him following investigations into the discovery that weapons were missing from the arms store at BCA, which was part of the Ordnance Corps and Ross was Commanding Officer at the time the guns were missed.

The Court Martial is being presided over by Col. Bruce Lovell and includes Judge Advocate Oslen Small. Lt. Cols. B. Bristol, Patrick West and Trevor Blenman and Major Paul Arthur.

Associated with the Defence, as well, is other attorney-at-law Mr. Gregory Gaskin.

Farmers consulted on enhanced D&I for rainy season
THE government has continued to place emphasis on ensuring effective drainage and irrigation during the current rainy season with input from farmers and residents from various communities including the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary areas (MMA)in Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice).

Agriculture Minister, Robert Persaud, met farmers last Thursday and D&I officials of the MMA scheme to discuss ongoing drainage activities in the region and additional works that could be undertaken.

Chairman of the Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary/Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) Mr. Rudolph Gajraj, and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Lionel Wordsworth, were among those present at the meeting.

During the meeting, which took place at the Fairfield/Mahaicony Community Centre, farmers were told that focus is being placed on additional measures to be decided based on their recommendations even as the rains continue.

“When works are to be done we want to consult with farmers. When works are ongoing, we want farmers to be updated and when works are completed we want farmers to give their assessment,” Persaud urged.

He noted that the massive investment Government is putting in place is intended to benefit farmers and provide the best service to them as well.

It was explained that the MMA/ADA has been granted sole responsibility for the D&I system in Region Five due to the Authority’s capacity in terms of equipment, expertise and other resources.

Gajraj pointed out that the decision was taken because of the heightened emphasis on agricultural development and the need to facilitate food production.

This is very important in light of the ongoing ‘Grow More’ campaign being promoted countrywide as one of the measures to address the rising cost of food.

Formerly there was a section of the drainage work done by the region while the remainder was undertaken by the MMA.

Minister Persaud said that this has been causing several problems especially in the area of finance and coordination which have been revisited and solved.

Gajraj gave the farmers a comprehensive idea of the plan of work that has been executed and what are to be done.

Minister Persaud said a few weeks ago he was at the Bellamy canal for a follow-up after work was being done by the authority and he was impressed with the plan.

He urged the authority to not only make the work look impressive on paper but to ensure that it is being delivered efficiently.

Persaud told farmers that while government is making preparation for them, they have to also make the best use of it, especially when the world is faced with a serious phenomenon, the rising cost of food.

This year the MMA will spend in excess of $200M to ensure effective drainage for farmers and the Region as a whole since Region Five primarily depends on agriculture and cattle-rearing.

It was pointed out that although the rainy season is on, work will still be ongoing by the MMA to deal with the weather to ensure that there is a proper drainage system in the long-term and to eliminate the possibility of flooding.

Persaud urged farmers to help in the maintenance of the infrastructure since they are put in place for their benefit.

Several farmers voiced their concerns and suggestions to the authority to further enhance the drainage network in the region. Many of them also praised the works that were done by the Ministry through the MMA. (GINA)

PUC flooded with complaints from GWI consumers
THE watchdog, Public Utilities Commission (PUC), says it has been receiving many enquiries and complaints from consumers concerning water rates charged by the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) this year as against last year.

As such, the complainants have been enquiring from the PUC, which is tasked with the responsibility for granting any such increases, whether such approval has been granted recently.

The Commission, in a release recently, stated that when it makes an order it sets out certain bands, and the rates approved for each band are the legal rates.

The PUC noted too, it had ruled that GWI restructure the tariff bands to allow for uniformity and a smaller number of bands, but that GWI has not yet submitted its proposals to be considered for approval.

GWI should therefore submit its proposals for the uniformity of the bands and categories, if it considers it necessary and prudent, the release added.

Additionally, the PUC categorically states that consumers cannot be placed in any different bands or rate category, without the approval of the Commission.

Further, it noted that the customer category “GUYWA” represents consumers in the country areas who were originally served by GUYWA, while the customer category “GS&WC” represents consumers in the Georgetown area who were originally served by the “Georgetown Sewerage and Water Commissioners’.
A list of the water rates as approved by the PUC are :
DOMESTIC CONSUMERS - UNMETERED. APPROVED TARIFF
(Annual)
GUYWA Rural Domestic Ȃ….......... $ 8,976

GUYWA Domestic Low………...... 8,976

GUYWA Domestic Medium ………… 13,860

GUYWA Domestic High……………… 15,840

NON-DOMESTIC CONSUMERS –UNMETERED APPROVED TARIFF
(Annual)
Domestic Combined …………………… $ 10,824

Small Commercial …….....…………….. 16,462

Medium Commercial ……….………….. 39,501

Large Commercial……………………... 131,670

Small Institutions ……………………… 16,462

Medium Institutions …………………… 39,501

Large Institutions ……………...……… 131,670

Small Industrial ……………………….. 32,918

Medium Industrial 65,835

Large Industrial 219,450

DOMESTIC CONSUMERS - UNMETERED APPROVED TARIFF
(Annual)
GS&WC Domestic Low ………….. $ 11,880

GS&WC Domestic Medium………. 18,480

GS&WC Domestic High………….. 21,120

GS&WC Domestic High………….. 33,000

SEWERAGE APPROVED TARIFF
(Annual)
Domestic all ……………… $ 5,040

Non-Domestic metered all ……………… 25,200

Non-Domestic metered all …………… 26,400

METERED DOMESTIC APPROVED TARIFF
GUYWA Domestic Rural (per cubic meter) ………… $ 60.90

GUYWA Domestic Low (per cubic meter) ……………… 60.90

GUYWA Domestic Medium (per cubic meter) ..………… 60.90

GUYWA Domestic High (per cubic meter)………………. 94.50

METERED COMMERICAL APPROVED TARIFF
GUYWA Non-Domestic (per cubic meter) …………… $ 96.60

METERED DOMESTIC APPROVED TARIFF
GS&WC Domestic Medium (per cubic meter) ……… $ 63.00

GS&WC Domestic High (per cubic meter) …………… 94.50

GS&WC Domestic - ………………112.35

METERED COMMERCIAL APPROVED TARIFF
GS&WC Non-Domestic (per cubic meter) ………… $ 100.80
Further, the PUC said it had granted approval for a fixed charge for consumption of water, and ancillary charges.

For Domestic Metered Consumers who consume 10m³ or less water, the fixed monthly charge will be

Rateable bands 1 and 2 ...……… .$600.00

Rateable band 3 ………………………$900.00

Rateable bands 4 – 5………………….$1100.00

However, consumers who use more than 10m³ will not pay a fixed charge but will be billed for the volume of water consumed.

NON DOMESTIC METERED CONSUMERS who consume 15m³ or less will be billed a monthly fixed charge only of $1500.00.

Those who consume more than 15m³ will, however, not pay a fixed charge, but will be billed for the volume of water consumed.

ANCILLARY CHARGES
Domestic connection fee………………………$ 1000.00

Domestic reconnection fee………………………. 600.00

Domestic tamper fee……………………………... 25,000.00

Non domestic connection fee (for 3/4" connection) 1000.00

Non-domestic connection fee (for more than a 3/4”

connection)………………..priced according to costs quoted by GWI.

on domestic re-connection fee………………….$13,000.00

Non-domestic tamper fee…………………………$50,000
NEWS

UG’s Thakur and wife robbed at gunpoint
The police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at about 18:30 hours, on Saturday last, during which Parsram Thakur of the University of Guyana (UG) and who resides at No. 67 Village, Corentyne, and his wife were attacked by three men, two of whom were armed with handguns and a knife, and robbed of jewellery, cash, a cell phone and a wrist watch.

Investigations revealed that the victims had hired a taxi to take them to the University at Turkeyen, when in the vicinity of Ogle Public Road , ECD, the driver suddenly stopped claiming that someone had thrown a missile at his car. At this point the three bandits came up and held the couple at gunpoint, took away the articles mentioned and escaped.

The taxi-driver has been arrested and is in police custody assisting with the investigations.

Sacked police sergeant sues for wrongful dismissal
- Attorney General says sergeant illegally withdrew services
By George Barclay
IN a Constitutional motion before the court last Friday, dismissed Police Sgt Cleveland Glasgow, is seeking declarations that his dismissal in December 2000 by the Commissioner of Police is unlawful and that he is still a member of the Guyana Police Force.

But in submissions by the Attorney General, Mr. Doodnauth Singh, S.C., who as respondent, is opposing the application for a Notice of Motion, has in written submissions, urged Justice Rishi Persaud to dismiss the application and to find that the Commissioner of Police acted lawfully at all times in dismissing the applicant from the Guyana Police Force.

In keeping with the rules of the court the Attorney General was the first to make submissions in matters of the kind and dealt with facts and law, to support his contention that the Applicant’s case was devoid of merit.

When the matter resumes later this week, Attorney-at-Law, Mr. Nigel Hughes, for the applicant will respond to the submissions by the Attorney General.

Beginning his submissions, the Attorney General pointed out that the Applicant

was appointed a member of the Guyana Police on September 6, 1976, and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant of the Guyana Police Force.

The applicant while stationed at the Vigilance Police Station was granted seventy four (74) days annual leave for the period September 18, 2000; to the November 30, 2000.

According to the Attorney General on November 28, 2000, the applicant reported to the Kitty Police Station that he was ill and had been issued with a medical certificate for 28 days sick leave. An entry was made to that effect in the Message Book of the Kitty Police Station on the said date, but no further action was taken by the applicant with respect to the tendering of the medical certificate.

The Attorney General contended that the applicant, therefore, failed to adhere to the settled rules and practices of the Guyana Police Force regarding the procedure for submitting medical certificates. He failed and or neglected to take the Kitty Police Station Medical Journal to Dr. Persaud to have the recommended leave inserted therein and further to have the leave recommended by Dr. Persaud confirmed by the Police Surgeon.

Thus, the Attorney General pointed out that the applicant never formerly applied for sick leave nor did he submit a form for sick leave then or any time thereafter.

The Attorney General argued that by reason of the aforementioned, the applicant was deemed to have illegally withdrawn himself from the Police Force.

By letter dated January 18, 2001, the then Commissioner of Police, Mr. Laurie Lewis, wrote to him informing him that having failed to report for duty he was deemed to have illegally withdrawn from the Guyana Police Force in contravention of Section 37A (1)(b) of the Police Act Chapter 15:01 and was therefore dismissed from the Guyana Police Force with effect from the December 17, 2000 in accordance with the powers vested in the Commissioner under the provisions of Article 212 (3) of the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana.

The applicant on December 12, 2003, filed a Notice of Motion with affidavit in support seeking certain orders including:

A declaration that the termination of his services by the Commissioner of Police on December 17, 2000, was ultra vires, null and void.

A declaration that the plaintiff is entitled pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and otherwise to his pension.

A declaration that the plaintiff’s fundamental right as guaranteed by Article 142 of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana was breached and contravened by the actions of the defendants when they purported to terminate the plaintiff’s services on December17, 2000.

Oldest recorded South American chalks up 112 not out
By Shirley Thomas
GUYANA’s oldest centenarian, Ms. Mathilda Lewis, who also holds the distinction of being the oldest person recorded in South America, on Friday, celebrated her 112th birthday, chalking up an enviable ‘five scores and twelve’.

Ms. Lewis, fondly referred to as “Granny”, who lives at the Salvation Army Women’s Hostel at Bent and Hailey Street, Wortmanville, in the city, has understandably deteriorated in health since her last birthday. Though not as gregarious as one year ago, on Friday, she nevertheless had her guests and reporters rolling with laughter as she occasionally joked and quipped in response to questions asked.

Commenting on her present state of health she responded: “I am not feeling so well, because I have pain in the knee and my eyes get dark, so I can’t make out people. I’m only hearing their voice and feeling their presence with me … But thank God He has spared my life. I am still among the living and not mingled with the dead.”

Born on May 16, 1896, in Charlestown, Georgetown, Ms. Lewis grew up with an aunt after the death of her mother while she was still very young. She was never married and has no children. “I was never allowed to go to parties, picnic or anything like that. I only went to Church and had to wear long dresses,” she recalled.

Those closest to her at this time, are Ms. Sandra Duncan, matron of the hostel and other inmates who do a great job of keeping her well groomed, adequately fed and generally happy.

About her thoughts on attaining the ripe old age of 112, she modestly replied: “I never thought I would have lived to be this age, but it’s the grace of God keeping me; protecting me, and providing for me and sending friends to look at me. May God bless them and keep them under his protective care.”

Albeit, Grannie Mathilda is not too optimistic about seeing another birthday, adding: “I don’t think I will go any more, because pains in the knee, hands and all about; I don’t feel so strong…”

Also, because she has been having stomach problems recently, her diet is now somewhat restricted, so that she can only consume light meals in the evenings. Last year she told of favourite dishes, one of which was calaloo soup with foo-foo, ochro and tripe. She shared the recipe for her favourite metemgee, rattling off from the top of her head: “You peel the provision, wash them properly, grate the coconut, extract the milk and boil it down low. You add soda dumpling (made from corn flour mixed with white flour) and add nice salt fish or banga…” Such solids have had to be removed from her diet because of indigestion.

For her birthday, Grannie had two days of celebrations, and was honoured by friends and other well wishers, including The Divisional Leaders of the Salvation Army, other officers and members of the Guyana Division and its Home League; a group from the St. Andrew’s Kirk (of which Ms. Lewis is a member), and representatives from the Office of the Minister of Human Services and Social Security.

On Thursday, a Communion Service at which the Reverend Oswald Allen Best officiated, was celebrated for her at the Bent Street Hostel. On Friday a luncheon was hosted in her honour by the St. Andrew’s Kirk, and later in the evening a birthday party at which other seniors at the hostel were fed and choicely entertained. Both activities were held at the hostel.

Among those gathered to shower her with love, gifts and greetings at her birthday party on Friday afternoon were: Divisional Commander Major Sinous Theodore and his wife – Mrs. Major Marie Theodore – Divisional Head of Women’s Ministries and other officers; Rev. Oswald Allen Best of St. Andrew’s Kirk, Members of the Senior Citizens Association and others. Earlier in the day, officers from the Ministry of Human Services presented a gift and a bouquet to Ms. Lewis on behalf of Minister Priya Manickchand who tried her level best to be at the celebration, but was unavoidably absent.

It is with pride that the Guyana Chronicle joins in saluting our oldest national centenarian, and wishing her God’s continued blessings and protection.

PCA Chairman for Bartica this weekend
CHAIRMAN of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), retired Chancellor of the Judiciary, Mr. Cecil Kennard, will be at Bartica, in Region Seven (Cuyuni/Mazaruni), from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25.

His schedule indicates that he will meet ranks at Bartica Police Station, from 13:30 h on May 23, to explain his role and functions and discuss matters of concern to them.

Later that day, he is to appear on the community television station to outline his duties.

On Saturday, May 24, from 08:30 h, he will be in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) at Bartica to receive complaints from members of the public.

The Chairman’s next visits will be to Linden, Port Kaituma and Mabaruma.

IT classes begin at Wakapoa Secondary
SECONDARY school students of the Wakapoa Amerindian community in the lower Pomeroon have started studies in Information Technology (IT).

A report, presented at the Tuesday statutory meeting of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), said classes are being conducted at the Wakapoa Secondary School every Tuesday and Thursday.

The teaching is being done by teachers of the school on a voluntary basis, the Council was informed.

In Region Two…
Councillor calls for burial society probe
CHAIRMAN of the Local Government, Hinterland and Co-operatives Sub-Committee of the Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Mr. Pooran Persaud, has called for an investigation, by the Co-ops Department, into the affairs of the Walton Hall Burial Society.

He alleged, at last Tuesday’s RDC statutory meeting, that the co-op has no record of fees collected over the past years.

Persaud claimed that the society controls the Walton Hall cemetery on Essequibo Coast and charges between $5,000 and $10,000 for each dead person buried there.

He also told the Councillors that the burial ground is not maintained in good shape.

Hire car, minibus operators want permanent Charity park
HIRE car and minibus drivers are appealing for a permanent park to be established at Charity, on Essequibo Coast, by the Charity/Urasara Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).

A spokesman for the group said the end of the public road at Charity becomes congested especially on the Monday market days, when space to accommodate them is very limited.

He said stalls have now been erected along both sides of the thoroughfare and they are forced to park their vehicles on the road shoulder on Mondays.

Government, as part of the development for Charity to become a township, recently spent millions of dollars to construct an open air market tarmac for vending.

A section of the drainage trench paralleled to the roadway was also landfilled and a revetment built to facilitate hire cars and minibuses but the spokesman said vendors have taken over the facility and the space reserved for them is fully occupied on Mondays.

The public transport operators want an all-weather park, like the one at Damon Square, Anna Regina, to be constructed at Charity for their purpose. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

St. Joseph’s High triumphs over Marian Academy
- in GBTI’s impromptu speaking competition
THE Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Regent Street Branch, sponsored Inter-Secondary School Impromptu Speaking Competition for fourth formers continued on May 13 at the GBTI Recreational Centre, Georgetown.

The match featured Marian Academy against St. Joseph’s High School.

The St. Joseph’s team showed breadth of understanding of the topics selected securing a total of 696 points versus 606 points for Marian Academy.

The topics selected by Marian Academy were: A trip into the future; Actions speak louder than words; A bank account is essential.

The St. Joseph’s High team pulled the topics: How would you solve the garbage problems in the city?; Why are people illiterate in today’s world; The minibus problem. What can be done?

The judges for the match were Dr. Joyce Jonas, Mr. John Barnes and Mr. Sheik Sadik.

The second round of competition was held on Thursday with President’s College coming up against School of the Nations and Richard Ishmael verses Annandale Secondary School.

Heath a true man of letters, son of Guyana - Minister Anthony
MINISTER of Youth, Culture and Sports, Dr. Frank Anthony, paid tribute to internationally recognised Guyanese novelist and playwright, Roy Heath who passed away in England earlier this week.

The minister praised Heath as a true man of letters and son of Guyana, in that though the acclaimed writer lived most of his adult life in Britain he stayed resolutely true to the land of his birth, capturing the colour, culture and post independent periods.

“I’ve read that Mr. Heath steadfastly depicted his Guyanese-ness to the point of never emphasising any Britain status”.

Heath, whose piece on Guyanese myths and folk beings in an early edition of KAIE, often quoted by cultural researchers, migrated to the UK in 1950 as one of those Caribbean/Guyanese exiles who lived the reality of a colonial creative mind determined to be free although in the then mother country.

A Guyanese prize for literature winner in 1989, Heath has published novels, short stories, plays and critique.

His work has been published internationally with the British Broadcasting Corporation presenting his short stories for many years.

Like Mottelholzer, Braithwaite and the latter-day D’Aguiars and Dabydeens, Roy Heath was among the constellation of Guyanese and Caribbean literary stars whose work placed the region firmly in the international firmament of world literature.

“Coming in the wake of the passing of Wordsworth McAndrew in the United States of America three weeks ago, Heath’s demise hastens the need for us to find appropriate ways to honour our cultural icon” Minister Anthony remarked; like McAndrew, Heath’s work will be featured prominently during Carifesta seen here in August.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, offers its condolences to the family and close friends of the celebrated Roy Heath.

Guyana Cultural Association Wordsworth McAndrew Awards billed for next month
THE Guyana Cultural Association of New York 2008 Awards ceremony will take place in New York City in June 2008. Under the theme of “Caribbean People in Harmony through Culture”, the awards ceremony is the first of a number of events that will be presented over several months. In keeping with Guyana Cultural Association (GCA) selection criteria and tradition, the awardees are expected to have a sustained, high level of skillfulness in their respective endeavours.

The GCA Wordsworth McAndrew Awards will recognise the achievements of individuals and entities in cultural development and presentation. We plan to acknowledge the contributions by individuals, youth, business leaders and organisations.

Accordingly, the GCA is inviting nominations for four categories of awards in the cultural and creative sectors. The nominations are for a youth, aged up to 25 years; a business person; and eight persons or organisations. The deadline for nomination is May 26, 2008.

A release from the GCA said its awards selection committee will evaluate each nomination considering seven criteria: originality, scope, impact/ influence, integration, pioneering spirit, challenges and achievements. Every awardee's work must meet a distinction considered an exemplary model that can inspire others.

The work to be honoured would be observed in one or more forms and bring a sense of pride to Guyanese. We are particularly interested in honouring those who are respected in their local community or field, either in Guyana or abroad. We are keen on giving recognition to those who may have had a lower media profile but whose contribution have been substantial and consistent with our theme.

Nominations can be submitted by e-mail to Awardsnominations@guyfolkfest.org. Include the nominee's name, a photograph, contact information, and a summary explaining why the nominee deserves to be in the lead in a particular category.

Hard copy (paper) nominations can be mailed to Claire Goring, Cultural Director, Guyana Cultural Association, 1368 E. 89 Street, Suite 2, Brooklyn, NY 11236. More nomination details, including eligibility and selection criteria, can be seen here:http://www.guyfolkfest.org/awards_nominations2008.htm.

The deadline for receipt of nominations is May 26, 2008, GCA said and is advising that that the work and accomplishments of nominees be closely aligned with the 2008 Festival theme: Caribbean People in Harmony through Culture.

NY musical extravaganza to mark 42nd independence anniversary
New York, NY – Some of Guyana’s outstanding musicians and cultural performers are set to lift their voices in Manhattan on May 31, as the Guyana’s Golden Arrowhead is again raised for the second time in New York’s financial district.

This year’s event, to mark the 42nd anniversary of Guyana’s independence, is set for May 31st, from 12:30 hours to 14 hours at the Bowling Green Park, in Lower Manhattan.

Guyana Master Drummer, Menes Griot & The Shanto Troop, featuring Harmonica Man from Venezuela, are among the scheduled performers while Junior Kulture, who will best be remembered for songs like ‘Bad Man Na Laugh,’ ‘Jah, Jah Da Ruler’ and ‘Culture Talking’ and Marlon Jardin, former musical director the Yoruba Singer who may be remembered for the song ‘Guyana Looking Like China,’ are also set to perform.

The display of Guyanese artistry will also feature veteran Guyanese singer Cliff Joseph and his daughter Coriena; rising chutney and reggae stars, DJ Prakz and H20 Wata Flo, respectively; the S.T.A.R.S Teen dance group of Brooklyn; dancehall fashion designer Goldteeth Lance; King Raj of the Indo Caribbean Star Finals Competition, Anand Kishore and Almira Brasse, who is again set to lend her operatic voice to the national anthem of Guyana.

Hollywood actor Marc Gomes is set to join the celebration this year.

The activity is the brain child of the Chief Executive Officer of Hard Beat Communications, Ms. Felicia Persaud, who formed the Committee to Celebrate Guyana last year by reaching out to nationals like Chuck Mohan, Ron Bobb-Semple, Allison Skeete, Roger Gary, Rickford Burke and Marina Sahadeo among others.

“The aim of reaching out to a diverse group of people, whose political and racial identities are as different as night and day, was largely because of my belief that Guyana needs to move to a higher height; where nationals begin to see the power of viewing themselves as Guyanese first and moving beyond the huge racial and political divide that continues to hamper progress in the country,” Ms. Persaud said.

“It is time nationals see the bigger picture and understand that especially in New York City and the U.S., unity is our strength and the divisive tactics of racism and politics only continue to foster the disrespect we largely suffer, despite being the fourth largest group of foreign born in this city.”

The 2008 event is being sponsored by Western Union and Laparkan Shipping, in association with Admiral Couriers’ Ray Rafeek, RK Office Supplies in Long Island, the Bowling Green Association and media partners, CaribWorldNews, CaribPR, The West Indian newspaper, Caribbean Spotlight TV, GEM Magazine, RBC Radio and One Caribbean Radio.

The inaugural event in 2007 featured cultural performances came from many Guyanese artists including Slingshot Drepaul, Courtney Noel, Almira Brasse, The Triad Group, the Verna Walcott, Deeraj and dance groups, drummer Akayo, poets James Richmond and Francis Quamina Farrier and musical saw player Moses Josiah.

Then thousands of Guyanese gathered near The Bull in Lower Manhattan to celebrate the 41st anniversary, including Guyana’s Ambassador to Washington, Bayney Karran, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and several other elected and appointed officials, Hollywood actor Sean Patrick Thomas, Guyanese boxer Vivian Harris, Bollywood actor Kumar Guarav and movie producers, Rohit Jagessar and Mikey Nivelli.

Nationals of Guyana account for the fourth highest number of the foreign born population of New York City foreign and continue to make great strides as entrepreneurs and homeowners.

In one area of Queens, NY, alone, their annual earnings are more than both native born black and white Americans according to the US Census recent American Community Survey report.

More information on the activity can be had from www.celebrateguyana.wordpress.com. (CaribPR Newswire)

Trust a prerequisite for power sharing
President Bharrat Jagdeo has reiterated that trust between the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the main opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) is an essential perquisite towards any evolution of executive power sharing.

However, the President observed that unfortunately at the moment there is no atmosphere of trust.

He noted too for quite some time himself and Leader of the main Opposition PNCR, Robert Corbin, has not met but is hoping that when “sense returns and sanity prevails” Corbin will return to the table for discussions.

This he posited will help to develop a civilised political culture which is necessary for having a better and more institutionalised system of government and opposition collaboration in addressing the problems of the country.

In a jovial political jab, the President declared that when the scrutineers’ money dries up it will make Corbin return to the table.

Increased traffic reported as ‘Canawaima’ service boom forecast
By Wendella Davidson
CANAWAIMA Management Company J.V., which operates the ferry between Guyana and Suriname, has reported an increase in both vehicular and passenger traffic, last year, from the Moleson Creek terminal, Corentyne, Berbice, as compared to 2006.

Statistics obtained by the Guyana Chronicle revealed that, at December 31, 2007, 48,273 passengers used the crossing, more than the 38,628 who travelled the previous year, on M.V. ‘Canawaima’, from Moleson Creek to South Drain in Suriname.

Of the number, 23,357 were arriving at Moleson Creek and 24,916 were departing, in comparison to the 2006 recording of 18,797 and 19,831, respectively.

The vehicles using the vessel from the Guyana side in 2007 numbered 5,024, of which 2,536 were incoming and 2,488 were going to Suriname.

The 2006 data indicated 3,897, representing 1,947 that came and 1,950 which departed.

For the period under review, the peak months for incoming passengers were July, August, October and December, with August showing the largest number, 3,118, while the most people went out in January, July, August and December. August was, again, the month with the highest number of departures - 3,275.

The state-of-the-art Canawaima, which can transport 20 passenger cars, together with cargo and people, takes approximately 25 minutes to make the journey.

The Guyanese Director/Secretary of the managing firm, Mr. Ronald Charles, said there are still concerns on the Guyana side about the expected May/June rains and what would be the situation in Suriname, even as works are ongoing on the construction of a fair-weather roadway from South Drain to Nickerie.

He recalled the nightmarish scenario that prevailed during 1999 and 2000, when the service had to be halted for a while because of the impassable state of the route.

Even when a temporary arrangement was in place, from Springlands, Corentyne to Nickerie, Charles said it proved uneconomical, as only passengers could have been accommodated.

He said, though, indications are that, when the construction of the road is completed, the usage will rise to the extent that two round trips daily would be necessary, instead of the one currently undertaken.

Regarding the condition of the Guyana infrastructure, Charles said, in addition to some minor repairs to the terminal building, some gutters need to be replaced and there are hopes that some of the lights would be replaced with modern ones and barracks built for the security personnel.

The three and a half miles access to Moleson Creek is slated for rehabilitation, under a US$34M contract for upgrading 87 miles from New Amsterdam, also in Berbice, that would be executed in two phases.

The first phase, which began in 2006, is scheduled to be finished in July and the second would take 20 months.

GOPIO lecture series begins
The Guyana Organisation of People of Indian Origin lecture series begins today at 17:00 hours at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, High Street Georgetown.

Today’s lecture is entitled: “Reflections on Indian Women” and will be delivered by Member of Parliament, Mrs. Indra Chandarpal M.P.

Demerara Bridge NOT to be closed
- during maintenance operations
GENERAL MANAGER of the Berbice River Bridge, Mr. Rawlston Adams, said the structure will not be closed for two weeks to facilitate the execution of maintenance work as is being rumoured.

In a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, he said all systems are in place to ensure the smooth flow of traffic during the rehabilitation of 79 pontoons on the bridge.

The General Manager disclosed that the contract for the initiative has been awarded to Courtney Benn Contracting Service who has already started to mobilise equipment to carry out the work.

Government this year has allocated $ 555 M for the initiative which includes the construction of four pontoons for the facility. Work on the latter Mr. Rawlston said has started.

He pointed out that the management of the bridge depends greatly on government’s subsidy to execute its capital work programme and disclosed the revenues collected from commuters are used for the paying staff and to carry out maintenance operations.