KINGSTON - As the world celebrates Occupational Safety and Health Month, the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) kicked off its participation with an inter-departmental banner competition, held on Thursday March 31, 2016.
The event, which featured participation by six of DHBC’s departments, was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Protection. These departments were DHBC’s Asphalt Plant; the Traffic Department;Workshop/Electrical Department; the Stores Department; Maintenance Department; and the Accounts Department.
During the opening of the competition, DHBC’s General Manager, Rawlston Adams, noted that the observation of Occupational Safety and Health Month was important, particularly to DHBC. He said that the corporation is one focused on various works that constantly place employees at risk.
“There are always risks in the workplace so it’s important that occupational safety and health (OSH) is observed at all times,” Adams emphasised. He added that DHBC will play its part in ensuring the safety of its employees and recently updated work outfits to better fit international OSH standards.
For the competition, the departments were required to come up with unique banners highlighting this year’s theme, “Workplace stress: a collective challenge”. The competition featured three judges who graded the created banners in a number of areas, including originality, creativity, presentation, colour scheme, and use of theme and other pertinent OSH materials.
At the conclusion of the event, the Stores Department was determined the overall winner and was awarded $30,000 and a trophy after a vote by the judges broke a tie with the second place winner, the Asphalt Plant Department. The second place department was awarded $20,000 and a trophy. Third place went to the Accounts Department.
The judges all agreed that the task of determining the winners had been difficult since the banners were all eye-catching. Chief Judge, Gweneth King of the Ministry of Social Protection, congratulated all of the participants and urged them to come bigger and better next year.
Similarly, General Manager Adams thanked the departments for their participation and particularly their interest and enthusiasm. The winning banner will represent DHBC when it participates in the Occupational Safety and Health Month walk being held tomorrow, Sunday April 3, 2016, by the Ministry of Social Protection.
KINGSTON - The Ministry of Public Infrastructure, in keeping with the Government of Guyana’s plans to develop a 'Green Economy', has solicited Expressions of Interest from suitable firms for the rehabilitation and operation of the Moco-Moco Hydropower Plant.
Under a Build, Own, Operate, Transfer (BOOT) structure, power will be supplied to the Lethem Power Company grid under a negotiated and agreed Power Purchase Agreement.
The ‘Expression of Interest’ (EOI) was initially published in January 2016 and the submissions were opened on Thursday March 31st, 2016 at the GEA.
A total of five (5) submissions were received regional and international companies. These companies are ‘CHEA -Centrias Hidreletricas da Amazonia LTDA – ME’ (Brazil), ‘NCGET’ (Russia), ‘Torque – EPCM’ (Barbados) and two from ‘McVantage Products’ (USA).
The process, which was facilitated by Mrs. Seema Greene, Head of the Administrative and Human Resource Departments of GEA, and Mr. Valmiki Ramtahal, GEA’s Internal Auditor, was attended by representatives of three of the bidding companies: CHEA - Centrias Hidreletricas da Amazonia LTDA –ME, Torque – EPCM, and McVantage Products. The EOIs will be evaluated by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Mahender Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of GEA, expressed gratitude to the bidders for the time and effort that went into preparing the submissions.
The 500 kW Moco-Moco hydropower station was built in the year 1999 and went out of operation in the year 2003 due to a landslide along the penstock alignment. The Government of Guyana has declared the rehabilitation of the station to be a priority project in order to strengthen the Lethem Power Company supplying the vicinity of Lethem and to substitute the diesel consumption with renewable energy with the aim of improving performance of the Company through cost effective solutions and the maximum possible annual energy production.
The rehabilitation of the Moco-Moco hydro power station is yet another initiative of the Government of Guyana as part of a holistic approach to sustainable economic growth which demonstrates its commitment to creating a climate resilient economy and the establishing of a green economy.
KINGSTON - Six thousand homes across 25 hinterland communities in Guyana will receive solar home systems following the launch of the Sustainable Business Models for Rural Electrification and Energy Access in Guyana Project by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.
The project, which is being spearheaded by MPI’s Hinterland Electrification Unit (HEU), was launched today, March 14, 2016. The project is in collaboration with the not-for-profit company, CARIBSAVE, and the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF), a member of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group.
During the launch at Cara Lodge, Minister within the Ministry, Annette Ferguson, deemed the event a significant one. She noted that, in Guyana, over 80 percent of hinterland communities have no access to electricity. In comparison, the coastlands boast a nearly 100 percent electrification rate, she said.
Minister Ferguson stressed that the glaring disparity between the electrification rates must be rectified. Therefore, the Government of Guyana allocated $110M in the 2016 National Budget to close the electrification rate gap that exists between urban areas and the hinterland, she said.
“The unbalance is glaring. It is no secret that the hinterland remains the reserve of Guyana’s wealth; therefore, if we can create the infrastructure that will improve energy availability for rural communities, the result will be a win-win for everyone…rural electrification improves social, environmental and economic parameters of rural livelihood,” Minister Ferguson stressed.
She further said that the surge in renewable energy sources will lead to an overall positive impact on the environment. “Energy is so critical for our survivability; its inaccessibility should be treated as a human rights issue,” she added.
Minister Ferguson further said that the project will bring drastic improvement to people’s lives and communities through the improvements of public infrastructure, living conditions and health and education facilities; through the provision of income generating opportunities; and through the building of capacity for improved energy services.
Meanwhile, according to CARIBSAVE Caribbean Regional Director, Judi Clarke, Guyana is the newest home of CARIBSAVE thanks to its new Georgetown location. Over the years, the company has focussed on a number of areas, including climate change; risk and resilience; biodiversity, ecosystems and marine conservation; and low carbon development and renewable energy.
“Energy demands are growing worldwide yet approximately 1.5 billion have no access to electricity…we are therefore very excited to embark upon this project,” she said.
The key objective of the project is the increase sustainable, affordable, and reliable access to renewable energy technologies to rural communities in regions 1, 2, 7, 8, and 9 while ultimately improving the quality of lives for those living in the hinterland regions. The project is also an integral part of Guyana’s broader Sustainable Energy Programme.
The project will also focus on the development of business models for solar photovoltaic systems which will be installed in community buildings in the 25 communities. Additionally, community members and other energy sector agencies will be trained in technical, operational, social and environmental aspects of the project.
MIF has contributed US$1.3M to the project; the project’s total amount is US$1.7M and its financing period will cover from 2016 to 2019. Currently, the 25 villages are being finalised and will be chosen shortly.
KINGSTON - Works in ‘E’ Field, Sophia have been completed as the Sophia Ring Road Project, which seeks to link ‘A’ through ‘E’ fields, continues to progress smoothly.
The works in Cummings Park, ‘E’ Field were recently completed by the contractor, Ivor Allen, and the area now boasts about 1,500 metres of asphalted streets. Additionally, 30 streetlights were installed along the stretch of road and will soon be powered following the “go ahead” from the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL). The only outstanding works in the area is the installation of a culvert.
Meanwhile, in the other fields, works are moving apace. Contractor B&J Civil Works has already commenced works to create a middle linkage between ‘A’ Field to ‘B’ Field and linkages in ‘B’ Field to ‘C’ Field and ‘C’ Field to ‘D’ Field.
Another linkage towards the southern extremity of ‘A’ Field is also being created by contractor Courtney Benn Contracting Services. This contractor is also responsible for the repair of the ‘A’ Field access road and this work will soon be graded and shaped in preparation for the crusher run and subsequent asphalting. This southern linkage will provide an additional route for residents of ‘A’ Field to provide greater comfort and accessibility.
Additionally, the project will see the creation of more bridges and already two have been completed to provide access to Plum Park, Sophia.
The first of these works commenced in January 2016. Though there had been a few hiccups, including the presence of Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) water mains, these obstacles have been removed and all works are expected to be completed within eight weeks.
During his presentation of the 2015 Budget, Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, had stated that the Government of Guyana would invest $387M to upgrade the Sophia Ring Road in a bid to link the Sheriff Street/Mandela Avenue urban development to peri-urban communities.
“We challenge this new board to see the changing postal environment and the emergence of new commercial challenges as an opportunity to transform one of Guyana’s oldest service providers.” – Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson
KINGSTON - As the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) seeks to maximise its operations, its newly installed board of directors was urged to adapt the agency to the 21st century.
This charge was given by Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson today, March 11, 2016, as the new 11-member board was officially installed.
The new GPOC board consists of Reverend Raphael Massiah as its chairman along with members, Mr. Martin Gaul; Mr. Oscar Clarke; Ms. Maureen Philadelphia; Mr. Leon Dickson; Ms. Nicola Trotman; Mr. Gobin Harbhajan; Ms. Oslyn Armstrong; Mr. Harold Shepherd (representing the Guyana Postal and Telecommunication Workers’ Union (GPTWU)); and Mr. Delon Baird (representing the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU)). Ms. Karen Brown, GPOC’s Postmistress General, is also on the board as an Ex-Officio Member.
The ceremony also saw the presence of Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, and Minister of Public Telecommunications and Tourism, Cathy Hughes, who also delivered brief charges to the members.
In her charge, Minister Ferguson noted the “unique challenges” facing the postal service in Guyana. As a former worker within the GPOC, she added that she was a first-hand witness to these challenges.
“Today, the agency faces many challenges due to technological changes and the internet revolution, which has resulted in the growth of e-commerce,” Minister Ferguson said.
Nonetheless, she said that the post office still holds relevance and its facilities, such as the bill payment and money transfer facilities, are still widely used by Guyanese. She therefore urged the new board members to capitalise upon existing infrastructures and improve the corporation’s state of affairs.
She further indicated that while e-commerce has grown, the GPOC can use this growth to its advantage and focus on improving its courier services. She noted the success of other couriers, such as FedEx and the United Parcel Service (UPS).
“We expect that in this digital age for the demand for courier services to grow…People and businesses still require items to be moved efficiently from one place to another,” Minister Ferguson emphasised. She continued, “It is therefore timely for us to reposition the corporation as a key service provider that delivers high quality services to our customers and citizens. Our citizens must see and feel the difference in our operation and approach.”
Minister Ferguson concluded by putting forward a number of tasks to the new board. Among these tasks were to provide strong and effective leadership; develop and implement a strategic turnaround plan to transform the organisation; and create a customer-centric environment to restore customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Fostering connectivity
Similarly, Minister Hughes emphasised the importance of the postal service in Guyana and said that, in many communities, the GPOC creates a link with the rest of Guyana and ultimately the rest of the world. She said the new board has the responsibility to look at the current services and initiatives that have been tried in other parts of the world before looking at Guyana’s needs and seeing how best practices can be incorporated locally.
“We have to look at how we can rebrand and repackage the types of services our post office offers…we don’t have to reinvent the wheel. We just have to be committed and look at existing role models and decide what can work best for us,” she said.
Sher further noted that the GPOC now sits under the Ministry of Public Telecommunications and Tourism and she explained that this shift was made due to the role the agency can play in fostering connectivity.
“When we talk about creating increased interconnectivity, increased broadband access, then you can see the kinds of enhanced roles the post office can play as a little ICT [information and communication technologies] hub,” she said. She went on, “All of the businesses and activities that we can provide to the public with the support of ICT, I think the post offices are ideally located to assist in that process.” She added that it is an “exciting time” since the future of the GPOC is being decided now.
In his brief opening remarks, Minister Patterson noted that the new board was a diverse one and he urged its members to be vibrant, creative, and relevant. “A lot depends on your willingness to serve,” he said.
All of the Ministers stressed their willingness to work with the new board to transform the organisation.
Meanwhile, new Chairman, Rev. Massiah, noted the experience, skill, and knowledge present in the board and promised to “combine these resources” to improve the corporation. He added that the new board will have the challenge of “waking up a sleeping giant” but said that it will nonetheless rise to the occasion.
KINGSTON - As Guyana strives to overcome its challenges in the aviation sector, minister responsible for aviation in Guyana, Honourable Annette Ferguson, has deemed that the nation is setting the stage for a more robust sector.
The Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure made the statement during the 17th board of directors meeting of the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS), held on February 29, 2016.The meeting will run until March 2.
During her opening of the meeting, Minister Ferguson stated that, in the Caribbean, there is a shortage of technical skills. Through CASSOS, countries with limited human resources are provided with an avenue to access key technical expertise to keep the aviation sector performing optimally, she said.
She stressed that Guyana is poised to significantly upgrade its aviation sector.
“In Guyana, we are setting the stage for a robust aviation sector, one that plays a vital role in the national sustainable development of our country,” Minister Ferguson said.
She said, however, that there are challenges facing Guyana’s aviation sector, including the country’s low level of compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). She also noted the need for adequate staffing to boost safety oversight.
“But I am confident that we will repair and develop our system,” Minister Ferguson said.
To this end, she explained that, in the 2016 National Budget, the Government of Guyana made provisions to support the ICAO Compliance Project as well as to upgrade the country’s air navigation service through the implementation of the aeronautical surveillance service using ADS-B.
“Guyana has made some strides in our efforts for regional aviation security integration and collaboration,” she added.
Meanwhile, Minister Ferguson deemed Guyana’s hosting of the CASSOS meeting as not only timely but historic.
“The opportunity of hosting this meeting in Guyana is timely and is also an historic one as this CASSOS 17thboard of directors meeting is the first official meeting in Guyana since CASSOS was formally launched in February of 2009 in the headquarters of the CARICOM [Caribbean Community] Secretariat,” Minister Ferguson said. She further said that CASSOS has chosen to come to Guyana at the right time since the country is preparing for its 50th independence anniversary in May 2016.
She further stressed that she understands the important work of CASSOS and its contributions to member countries and the aviation sector. “We are all working towards achieving the same goal of a safe and secure aviation sector to preserve the impressive track record of air transport as the safest mode of transportation,” she emphasised.
Minister Ferguson also expressed concern at the use of drones and the safety threats they present and urged CASSOS to urgently “develop rules and regulations which will be adopted by member states for implementation.”
“We must act swiftly and quickly,” she stressed, noting that last month a drone had come into close proximity with a helicopter of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
Meanwhile, CASSOS Chairman, Nari Williams-Singh, extended gratitude to Guyana and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for hosting the meeting. He revealed that over the next few days, participants will engage in “intense but focused” discussions that seek to ensure CASSOS states are compliant with ICAO standards.
“Our agenda over the next few days is very extensive as we seek to collaborate and harmonise for the good of aviation in the region,” Williams-Singh said. He continued, “The areas of safety and security are paramount as we take our mandate seriously as we embark on various activities in our individual member states while maintaining that focus on collaboration and harmonisation.” He said too that the growing issue of environmental protection should also be an area of focus.
Besides Williams-Singh, other CASSOS representatives were present for the meeting. Also present was GCAA Chairman, Lawrence London, along with GCAA Director General, Chaitrani Heeralall.
Guyana signed on to the CASSOS Agreement on July 2, 2008 and is now one of fifteen in the region under the body. Other nations include Barbados, Jamaica, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands.
Guyana’s partnership with CASSOS is expected to raise the nation’s ICAO compliance, which currently stands at 44 percent. The regional average stands above 70 percent.
KINGSTON - Consistent with the Government of Guyana’s plans to 'Green Bartica,' the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) through a public tender process, solicited proposals from Independent Power Producers to design and develop a generation system utilizing an appropriate renewable energy technology, or combination of technologies, under a Build Own Operate and Transfer structure, to supply 1.5 MW of power to the GPL Bartica grid under a negotiated and agreed Power Purchase Agreement.
The ‘Request for Proposal’ for submissions based on solar technology closed on Monday February 29, 2016 with a total of 22 bids being received from: Scheherazade Isoof Khan Business Development (Guyana), Jamaica Energy Partners (Jamaica), Trinidad and Tobago Power Ventures Ltd., GMS Solar (Guyana), UDECM Inc. (Ontario, Canada), Solar City (USA), Innogen Technologies Inc. (Barbados), Green Hearth Tree Energy (Canada), Future First Energy Experts and Suntuity (USA), Roraima Consulting Inc. (USA), DYNAF (Curacao), Blue Tech Financing Solutions (USA), Sunmoon, Pinnacle Construction and Engineering Guyana (Guyana), Deltro Group (Canada), Our Sun Guyana Inc., SMA Sunbelt Energy (Germany), Associated Energy Developers (USA), Solus Energy (USA), K&P Project Management Company (Guyana), AGRLNDMAR Global (USA) and Peka Solar & Renewable Energy Inc. (USA).
The Guyana Energy Agency facilitated the opening of the tenders which was attended by representatives of 10 of the bidding companies and observed by Dr. Mahender Sharma, CEO of GEA and Mr. Horace Williams, CEO of the Hinterland Electrification Company Inc. In his closing remarks, Dr. Sharma expressed appreciation to the bidders for their participation in the tender and support of Guyana’s vision for energy security following a sustainable path.
The Proposals will be evaluated on criteria, including:
·How well the proposed project is defined and the likelihood of it reaching the minimum energy output target.
·The energy price compared to other proposals and GPL's avoided cost for its Bartica operations.
·How quickly the project can supply electricity to the Bartica Grid.
·The guaranteed firm capacity and availability of the system.
·The proposer's experience in power generation using the proposed renewable energy technology or technologies.
Following this evaluation, a shortlist of qualified firms will be formally engaged by the MPI and invited to submit full comprehensive proposals.
The ‘Green Bartica Plan’ is a Government of Guyana initiative that involves a holistic approach to sustainable economic growth in the soon-to-be township.
KINGSTON - The board of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) continues to expand and its Chairman, Robert Badal, and member, Komal Ramnauth, were officially instituted by the Ministers of Public Infrastructure, Honourable David Patterson and Honourable Annette Ferguson.
The inductions took place on February 05, 2016 and both men were urged to deal with the pressing matters facing GPL as quickly as possible. During the simple ceremony, Minister Patterson expressed hope for an early board meeting. He further indicated that important matters, including procurement and loss reduction, must be at the top of the agenda. He added that loss reduction is one of the complaints the company faces most.
Minister Patterson further said that the new board must guard against emergencies and must focus on better planning and execution of tasks.
In response, Chairman Badal emphasised that stringent steps must be taken to increase the company’s efficiency. These steps, he said, must include the stamping out of corruption from within. “With a new vision and culture, everyone will fall in line,” he said.
Ramnauth added that the board will work on fostering better relationships from the top down.
Meanwhile, Minister Ferguson urged the board to look into electricity theft. “Come up with innovative ideas; come up with a plan,” Minister Ferguson stressed. She continued, “Internally, we must do better.”
She further emphasised that “at the end of the day, not only GPL must win; both customers and GPL must benefit.”
Additionally, both Ministers urged the men to create policies to tackle unserved areas and expand GPL’s reach. The Ministers added that GPL must focus on bearing the cost of these expansions since it had a responsibility to the people of Guyana. They stressed that, in this modern age, persons should not be living without electricity.
“We must have an expansion programme; GPL has a national responsibility to the people,” Minister Patterson stressed.
Badal and Ramnauth’s inductions come a few days after other board members of GPL were officially instituted. Ramnauth was nominated by the Private Sector Commission (PSC). The other members are Denise Simmons; Leslie Ramalho; Abiola Wong-Innis; Morsha Johnson-Francis; Tara Singh; and Dr. Mahender Sharma.
The following was taken from the speech made by Minister of Finance, Honourable Winston Jordan, during his presentation of the 2016 Budget, on Friday January 29, 2016. Here, Minister Jordan explains the plans of the Guyana Government for the development of the nation's infrastructure.
1. Addressing the Infrastructure Deficit
4.38 Mr. Speaker, the absence of well-developed infrastructure has impeded the country’s development in several ways. Inadequate transport linkages across Guyana have increased production costs, making many of our products uncompetitive in world markets. Limited road, water and air access across Guyana has obstructed our ability to fully exploit the abundant opportunities in our tourism and natural resources sectors. Skewed transport road network development systems have thwarted the creation of employment opportunities in areas outside of the coastland. Sub-optimal infrastructure in housing settlements has prevented the development of sustainable communities. We have recognized these impediments. This is why this budget has placed a high priority on infrastructural development.
4.39 Mr. Speaker, our existing road network is incapable of meeting the rapid growth in vehicular traffic over the last decade. The consequences of this mismatch are many, including frustration of all road users; lost time and productivity due to delays; and frequent accidents, many of them deadly. The recently-expanded East Bank Demerara Road is already incapable of accommodating the flow of traffic into the country’s capital, while the East Coast and West Coast Roads can be harrowing during rush hours.
4.40 To address this lacuna, the Government has concluded a sustainable urban transport plan, which includes, among other things, a traffic model for Georgetown, a parking management plan, regularization of mini-bus operations, provision of public transport facilities, and the use of public transport and non-motorised modes in the most congested areas. In addition, we have budgeted $14.4 billion to continue the upgrade, expansion and rehabilitation of our network of roads and bridges. The Government is finalizing negotiations with the Government of China for the construction of the East Coast Highway, from Better Hope to Belfield. In collaboration with the IDB, the Government will, this year, conduct studies and designs for an improved East Coast Railway Embankment Road, entailing the construction of bridges between Sheriff Street and Mahaica; the upgrade of the current embankment road, from Sheriff Street to Enmore; and the extension of the embankment road, from Enmore to Mahaica. Additionally, we will be investing over $5.0 billion in the reconstruction of Sheriff Street that will facilitate improved traffic safety features, including pedestrian overhead crossings at strategic locations.
4.41 Shortly, a US$50 million loan will be signed with the Government of India to construct a new road link between Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara and Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara. The proposed new road will intersect several communities, including Sophia, South and North Ruimveldt, Eccles and Providence, creating an alternative access route to these densely populated areas, expanding business opportunities and opening new lands for housing development. Overtime, it is the vision of the Government to extend this East Bank-East Coast road link, to connect the Ogle International Airport and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. We will invest $2.3 billion to upgrade the West Coast Demerara Road, from Parika to Vreed-en-Hoop. The works include widening the corridor and improving road safety features.
4.42 Mr. Speaker, connectivity between West Demerara and Essequibo Coast and Islands is severely challenged by the current aged floating bridge across the Demerara River. The daily traffic bottlenecks to access and exit the city create untold hardships for commuters and business alike. We must construct a fixed high-level bridge to facilitate easy commute and allow for improved river navigation. We are committed to this project and, in this regard, have made provision, in this budget, for the conduct of the feasibility study. This is the first step to realizing a public-private-partnership for construction of the bridge.
4.43 Addressing the deplorable and underdeveloped infrastructural facilities in the hinterland region is paramount on the Government’s infrastructural development agenda. The Government will pursue several initiatives, in an effort to expand the integration of road networks into our intermediate savannahs, thereby helping to bridge the divide between our vast rural and hinterland communities and the coastland. A total of $6.72 billion has been allocated for the improvement of hinterland, rural and urban community roads in Bartica, Mahdia, Ituni/Kwakwani, Puruni/Itaballi, Mabaruma and Port Kaituma/Baramita and the Sophia ring road, among others. In collaboration with the IDB, we will commence activities to facilitate the complete rehabilitation of the 47 year old Soesdyke/Linden Highway. In the meanwhile, critical works will be undertaken to preserve its upkeep. Concurrently, maintenance works will be undertaken on the Linden/Kwakwani corridor. Over the longer term, we aim to fully pave this road so as to open access to communities in Ituni, Aroraima, Kwakwani, Ebini, Kimbia and other remote areas along the Berbice River. A feasibility study for the reconstruction of the existing bridge which links the communities of Wismar and MacKenzie will also be carried out.
4.44 An alternative link to Bartica and other hinterland communities would be created when on-going negotiations with our development partners to construct the Parika/Goshen road are finalized. Additional resources have been made available to expand efforts currently being undertaken to improve farm-to-market access roads at Parika, Ruby and Laluni. We are in discussions with the same donor for new farm access interventions in Triumph, Buxton and Ithaca, in order to stimulate micro-farms and small scale agro- processing initiatives.
4.45 Mr. Speaker, the full potential of residents living on the banks of our numerous rivers and waterways has been inhibited by the poor and inadequate river transport network. To vastly improve river connections between the coast and riverain areas and remote regions, the ageing fleet of vessels must be replaced. In this regard, the Government expects to conclude arrangements, soon, with the Government of India, for financing to procure new river transport vessels. In addition, private financing is being explored for the purchase of at least two, semi-new vessels. To complement spending on the new fleet of ferries, emphasis will be placed on navigational aids and improving stellings and wharves. To this end, the Government has started preparations to access the UK–Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (CIF), to upgrade and reconstruct several facilities in Georgetown, Parika, Port Kaituma, Kumaka and Bartica, among other areas.
4.46 Mr. Speaker, on a related and very important matter, navigation of Port Georgetown is severely hampered because of the siltation of the channel and the presence of several wreckages. This has led to restrictions in container traffic and increased cost of shipping. Similarly, our main rivers and creeks are clogged and, oft times, are inaccessible to our ferries and water taxis. To avert a potential crisis, the Government will aim to secure funding, through the UK-CIF, to purchase a dredge. It is expected that the dredge will be managed and operated in collaboration with Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) and the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG). In 2016, an amount of $1.3 billion is budgeted for works to commence on the rehabilitation of the Bartica stelling and the goods wharf at Kingston; docking of dredges and ferry vessels; dredging of the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers; and installation and maintenance of navigational aids.
4.47 Mr. Speaker, works will begin on a phased waterfront development programme over the next 5 years. This investment, estimated to cost over $1.6 billion, will see the development of state-of-the-art waterfront facilities, which will be on par with those in the Caribbean. This development will target Kitty, Kingston, Stabroek, Vreed-en-Hoop, Supenaam and Skeldon. The proposed project will include boardwalks; recreational areas; modernized ramps for ferries and water taxis; and a dockyard for yachts. The initiative will serve as a recreational and tourist attraction, and will create opportunities for small business development.
4.48 Mr. Speaker, the growth of the air services industry, with injections of new and improved technologies and the ever-expanding list of travel destinations being offered to our people, has induced Government to undertake a massive upgrade of our airports and aerodromes. An allocation of $5.2 billion has been made for the continued development of the air services industry, including the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. The improved facilities at the Ogle International Airport has led to increased services to multiple local and overseas destinations, inclusive of commercial flights at nights. The extension and upgrade of the Ogle runway has transformed the airport into a Regional hub, linking Georgetown to Suriname, Barbados and Trinidad. We are currently pursuing financing, in an effort to upgrade many of our hinterland airstrips at Eteringbang, Annai, Paramakatoi, Kurupung, Kato, Kopinang, Monkey Mountain and other locations. The Government is earmarking over $2 billion, in the medium term, for its Airstrips and Aerodromes Improvement Programme.
4.49 Mr. Speaker, similar to the experiences of Small Island Developing States (SIDs), Guyana is most vulnerable to climate change impacts. We continue to be threatened by rising sea levels and an aged and weakened sea defence system. With the heart of Guyana, Georgetown, being in the sight of the mighty Atlantic Ocean, significant investments must be made to protect people, property, livelihoods and infrastructure. The Government has developed long term sea and river interventions with several donors. We have negotiated sea and river defence programmes amounting to over $6 billion to erect and strengthen our bulwarks as well as to fashion a comprehensive instrument for coexisting harmoniously with our ocean and rivers. To support these efforts, the Mangrove Restoration Project and the Shorezone Management Plan will focus on developing natural mangrove regeneration initiatives that facilitate eco-friendly solutions while preserving the livelihood of people living in close proximity to the sea.
Energy
4.50 Mr. Speaker, the current fluctuation and volatility of oil prices has convinced the Government of the correctness of its policy of “greening” the economy through adopting clean energy solutions. The Government is currently collaborating with the IDB to define an energy matrix that will determine the best blend of energy options to ultimately boost the resilience of the energy sector. A draft of this matrix has been completed and it is expected to be finalized this year. One option that has been presented in the matrix is the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, which was determined by the Coalition Government to be not viable in its current configuration. The Government of Guyana and the Kingdom of Norway are currently engaged in discussions for a final review and determination of the future of this Project.
4.51 Mr. Speaker, the Government’s thrust towards creating sustainable cities and communities that are powered by green energy solutions is being actively pursued. The Government proposes to prioritize the construction of four mini-hydro power stations at Kamaira, Kumu, Tumatumari and Tiger Hill, which will contribute to development efforts in the communities identified for upgrade to towns. The Government has invited expressions of interest (EOI) from firms for the rehabilitation and operation of the Moco Moco Hydropower Scheme, under a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) arrangement, to supply power to the Lethem Power Company Inc.
4.52 Mr. Speaker, the Tumatumari Hydropower Scheme is also being re-developed by a private company, Tumatumari Hydropower Inc. (THI). The company is seeking to supply Mahdia with electricity through a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Mahdia Power and Light Inc. The Government is currently in discussions with THI for the completion of a hydropower development so that consumers at Mahdia can enjoy the lowest possible electricity rates. Accordingly, the Government intends to finance part of the scheme, using funding from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), which is being managed by the IDB, under the Sustainable Energy Program for Guyana.
4.53 In 2016, the Government will invest $2.5 billion in initiatives to improve GPL’s operational management capabilities. Approximately 830 km of the main distribution network will be rehabilitated, with a focus on reducing electricity losses and improving the safety and reliability of the electrical system. The Government is examining a number of un-served areas with a view of providing electricity to residents in those excluded communities, so as to improve living conditions.
4.54 The Government is negotiating a power purchase agreement with a private developer for a US$50 million wind farm at Hope Beach. This facility is expected to provide an additional 25 megawatts of power to the national grid. Currently, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) generates power at an average weighted cost of US$0.28 per kilowatt hour. The new project will likely offer GPL energy at less than half that cost, which will translate to lower electricity tariffs to consumers.
KINGSTON - The board members of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL); Guyana Energy Agency (GEA); Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA); and the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) were officially instituted today, January 28, 2016.
During each institution, the Ministers of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Honourable David Patterson and Honourable Annette Ferguson, urged the members to take their roles in the nation’s development seriously.
Throughout the day, the four boards were instituted in separate ceremonies and each board received charges from the Ministers.
For GPL, the first board to be instituted, the Chairman is Mr. Robert Badal; along with him are Ms. Denise Simmons; Mr. Leslie Ramalho; Mrs. Abiola Wong-Innis; Mrs. Morsha Johnson-Francis; Mr. Tara Singh; and Dr. Mahender Sharma, who were all installed as members. Representatives from the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU); the Private Sector Commission (PSC); and the Parliamentary Opposition were also slated to be a part of the board but are yet to be nominated.
According to Minister Patterson, GPL is the core utility company in Guyana. Therefore, he said, the new board will have a tremendous responsibility. He urged the members to keep in mind that their main goal is to provide exemplary service to consumers.
Minister Patterson further said that the greening of the country must also be a focus area for the new board. The board, he said, will be tasked with transitioning to alternative energy needs. Noting that the Government is currently working towards the creation of a 26 megawatts wind farm, Minister Patterson said that GPL is expected to be a part in the realisation of this goal.
In her address, Minister Ferguson commended the new GPL board and emphasised the integral role it played in the country’s development.
“I trust that with new faces coming on-board that we’ll see new ideas coming forward. We want you to find better ways and solutions to satisfy our consumers,” Minister Ferguson emphasised.
Both Ministers also reminded the board of GPL’s ongoing issues, including technical losses and unsatisfactory administration. They urged the board to look into these matters with a fair and equitable approach.
“I do hope you address these and expedite them as quickly as possible,” Minister Patterson said. He added, “I’m sure the next two years will be fruitful and beneficial to the country.”
Minister Ferguson also expressed pleasure at the board’s inclusion of three women, a vast improvement from previous GPL boards.
Meeting Guyana’s energy needs
For the GEA board, Mr. Lance Hinds was installed as the Chairman. Along with him are Ms. Nadia Sagar; Mr. Mark Bender; Dr. Mahender Sharma; and Dr. Vincent Adams. Though a representative from the Parliamentary Opposition was slated to be a part of the board, the Ministry is still awaiting a nominee.
During the board’s institution, Minister Patterson urged the members to tap into alternatives for the supply of fuel.
According to Minister Patterson, the GEA plays an integral role in meeting Guyana’s energy needs. Furthermore, he urged the board members to look into administrative issues and, most importantly, focus on renewable energy. He added that, in this regard, the focus should not only be on traditional forms of energy such as solar, wind and hydro but other forms such as waste energy.
“I do hope that these are looked at as viable options,” Minister Patterson stressed.
In her remarks, Minister Ferguson congratulated the new board and thanked them for taking up their positions.
“You’re here to advance the Government’s policies and to ensure that we have value for our money,” Minister Ferguson reminded. She added, “I trust that when important matters are before you that you handle them to the best of your abilities.”
In response, GEA Chairman, Mr. Hinds, thanked the Ministers for their charges and expressed pleasure with the level of skill on the new board.
“Visionaries”
For the new members of the CJIA board, being visionaries was the challenge put forward to them by Ministers Patterson and Ferguson.
The new board of directors of CJIA is being led by Chairman, Mr. Stephen Fraser. With him are Vice Chairman, Mr. Ramesh Ghir; Mr. Gerhard Ramsaroop; Ms. Nadia Jaikarran; Mr. Stuart Hughes; Ms. Gillian Pollard; Mr. Sherwood Clarke; and Ex-Officio Member, Mr. Balraj Balram. A representative from the Parliamentary Opposition is yet to be identified.
During brief remarks, Minister Patterson urged the board to not only recognise the meaningful positions they were in but to also be creative in their approaches.
Minister Patterson also asked the board to focus on cost efficiency. Noting that the airport saw a six percent increase in travellers during 2015, Minister Patterson projected that this figure will only grow in 2016. He added that the board’s first challenge will be the handling of those coming to Guyana to celebrate the nation’s 50thindependence anniversary.
“You will be charged with ensuring that our brothers and sisters feel very welcomed,” Minister Patterson said.
He further expressed hope that the airport’s capacities will be greatly improved under its new board and urged the members to open Guyana’s airways to more flights. He said that currently Guyana has low connectivity with its South American neighbours, a situation he hoped would be addressed.
Meanwhile, in her address, Minister Ferguson thanked the members for accepting their appointments and urged them to work closely with the Ministry.
CJIA Chairman, Mr. Fraser, thanked the Ministers for their expressed trust in the board. He said that he was so far comfortable with the board and CJIA’s management and indicated that the board will work towards developing synergy for the airport. He concluded by expressing his gratitude for ongoing works at the airport, particularly the airport expansion project.
Innovation
The final board to be instituted was DHBC and Minister Ferguson urged its members to be innovators during their term. The board of directors of DHBC consists of Chairman, Mr. Shabir Hussein; Vice Chairman, Mr. Joseph Holder; Ms. Rafeza Hussein; Ms. Claudette Rogers; and Ms. Mandy Sukhdeo; and Ex-Officio Member, Mr. Rawlston Adams. A representative from the GPSU is yet to be nominated.
During her charge, Minister Ferguson urged the members to be forward thinking and advised them to come up with new ideas to better the operations of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. She also extended this advice to the Asphalt Plant, which falls under DHBC.
She shared that, at the end of 2015, both DHBC and the Asphalt Plant performed well and she expressed hope that this performance will only grow under the new board.
Additionally, Minister Ferguson noted the need for improved traffic control and indicated that this was an area that must be looked into by the board. She stressed that the goal must be to provide better service to the travelling public.
Minister Ferguson further said that the Ministry will be working closely with the board in the future on a number of projects, including the new Demerara Harbour Bridge.
Meanwhile, Minister Patterson thanked the members for accepting their appointments and reminded them of their social obligations to the Guyanese public.
In response, Chairman, Mr. Hussein, thanked the Ministers for the confidence placed in him as the chairman and promised the board’s full cooperation.
Overall, all of the board members were urged to keep their employees satisfied and in mind.
“Our workers and employees are our most valued assets; we hope that whatever plans you undertake that the employees are with you,” Minister Patterson said. “Whatever you do, don’t forget them,” Minister Ferguson added.
