AS PART of the observances of the 39th Anniversary of Community Policing in Guyana (CPG), the “G” Division Community Policing Groups recently hosted a youth seminar and symposium on the Essequibo Coast.Held under the theme ‘Community Policing – supporting the fight against domestic violence, suicide prevention and promoting road safety’, activities were chaired by “G” Division CPG Chairperson, Ms. T. Barton; whilst the panel comprised the National Community Policing Executive (NCPE) Chairman Mr. Omesh Satyanand, Dr. Mark Constantine, other senior members of the NCPE, and the Community Policing Administrator Mr. D. Pompey.

The youth conference was held on Saturday, March 7, 2015 at the Anna Regina Courthouse, and the Symposium was held the following day at the C. V. Nunes Primary School auditorium. The sessions attracted youths and adults from Supenaam to Charity and the Pomeroon villages.

Those present were afforded the opportunity to participate extensively in discussion on issues pertinent to the topics of the theme. Mr. Satyanand touched on the prevalence of domestic violence and suicide in society, emphasising that these social issues are also global challenges.

He highlighted the growing number of road fatalities countrywide, and encouraged the youths to be more alert and grasp the opportunity that is available to them so as to enhance their lives.

During his presentation, Dr Constantine, a Clinical Psychologist and Executive Member of NCPE, drew attention to the dangers of domestic violence, suicides, and their negative impacts on society.

The other speaker, Mr. Pompey, Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, outlined the importance of using the roadways with care, caution and consideration.

He explained that if the roads are used in a better manner, accidents would be reduced, thus saving the lives of our citizenry.

The possibility that a Road Safety Council would be established in Essequibo was also examined at the symposium.