KINGSTON - Today, August 20 Hon. Patterson made his maiden presentation as the budget debate continues.
Mr. Speaker, My Colleague Ministers, Hon. Members on this side of the House, Hon. Minority Leaders and other Members of the Opposition, I now rise to support my Colleague and his team on a work well done.
Mr. Speaker, My Government, yes our Government has set itself meaningful and realistic goals which it intends to accomplish. That expectation will be attained despite the slowing down of the economy as a result of the deteriorating political climate precipitated by an uncaring and corrupt opposition motivated by selfish considerations.
Notwithstanding all the many challenges Mr. Speaker, my government has visions of building a better Guyana for all Guyanese. Thus, in this Budget, it will be implementing policies, programmes and projects in a bold and forceful way so that they will impact in a positive way in the realization of its stated objectives – real growth and strong macroeconomic performance.
Mr. Speaker, my government has set its sights to take this beautiful country, which abounds with natural physical, mineral, water, productive, human and other resources out of the morass into which it has found itself because of the ineptitude and haphazardness of the previous administration, and build a better Guyana where sustainable socio-economic development and good governance to generate wealth for our current and future generations.
Yes Mr. Speaker – out with unplanned and disorganized programmes and projects which were poorly conceptualized and implemented.
We are a government for and of the people, a government which believes in inclusiveness. A Government which will engage in visionary and insightful planning.
This my Government’s plan will be to .,……….
- Transform the public Infrastructure which is pivotal to Guyana’s economic development.
- Initiate Energy Policy for Development by:
(i) Rescuing the Amaila Project.
(ii) Re-enter into discussion with the Brazilians on the development of our Hydropower capacity.
- Construct the promised Linden/Lethem all Weather Highway.
- Pursue the Deep Water Harbour projects in alliance with the Brazilian government.
- Develop Sea and River Defence capacity among others.
In examining the theme, “A Fresh Approach to Good Life in a Green Economy”, we are saying for Fresh that we intend to pursue a novel – of a kind not seen before – or a purpose driven course. For approach it bespeaks of time, quality and character. Good Life – superior/ excellent thus affecting economic or / and physical wellbeing. Green – vigorous / vibrant, meaning strong healthy growth and Economy – careful and prudent management of the resources - production – distribution – consumption leading to strong and vigorous growth to attain prosperity.
To contextualize then my Government is saying. We intend to pursue a new kind of development not seen before, which will be exemplify a quality of life which is superior in such a vibrant way that it will lead to strong and healthy economy where growth and development will lead to a better life for all Guyana.
Mr. Speaker, my government is looking to a better Guyana for now and the future, a Guyana where all will be delighted to be a part and where all will participate in the process.
Mr. Speaker, I will now review the performance of the Public Infrastructure Projects which fall under my remit and will then give the projection of my Government’s holistic approach to its Public Infrastructural programme to attain our Theme “ A Fresh Approach to the Good Life in a Green Economy.”
In 2014 the total budgetary allocation was $17,482,551,348:
Current Provision: $ 2,502,645,000
Capital Provision + Amounts
Authorized by the Ministry of
Finance + Contingencies Fund: $14,979,906,348
Grand Total $17,482,551,348
Total Expenditure at 31.12.2014 was $15,040,940,124
Current $ 2,496,992,352
Capital $12,543,947,772
Overall performance was 86.03%
The total Budget for the Ministry in 2015 is $17,747.543
Ministry of Public Works
January to August 2015
Ministry of Public Infrastructure
September to December 2015
Current
Programme 311:
(Ministry Administration)
426.681
Programme 321
(Policy Development and Administration)
1,507.265
Programme 312
(Public Works)
1,315.351
Programme 322
1,121.623
Programme 313 (Transport)
19.168
Programme 323
(Transport)
48.466
Sub-Total
1,761.200
2,677.354
Capital
Specific
766.452
5,502.955
Local
2,699.247
4,340.335
3,465.699
9,843.290
Total Current and Capital
5,226.899
12,520.644
Grand Total Current and Capital for the entire year 2015: $17,747.543
Total expenditure at August 2015 was : $4,468,337,459
Mr. Speaker, my colleague, the Hon. Minister of Finance, has touched on a wide area in his lucid and comprehensive budget presentation regarding the state of public infrastructure and the vision to 2020.
[ Reference Pages 28 to 32]
I will now provide some specifics and more details in relation to the areas that fall under my portfolio.
Works Services Group – Roads and Bridges
Foreign Funded Projects
Loans – LO-2215, LO-2454 and LO-2741 were signed for a duration of five (5) years each, by funds provided by The Inter-American Development Bank (IADB).
LO-2215 was signed on March 21, 2010, which encompasses Implementation Support and Civil Works that includes Rehabilitation of east and west Canje; Improvement to Access Road to International Airport’ Construction of Concrete Drains along East Bank Demerara; Cleaning of Drains and Outfall; and Road Safety Prioritised Interventions, East Bank Demerara. The total value of the Loan is Twenty Four Million, Eight Hundred Thousand Untied States Dollars (US$24,800,000 million) and is part funded by the Government of Guyana.
LO-2454 was signed on December 10, 2010, which encompasses Implementation Support and Civil Works that includes Expansion of the East Bank Four Lane spanning the boundaries of Providence to Diamond which is divided into Lots 1, 2 and 3; and Road Safety. The total value of the Loan is Twenty Two Million United States Dollars (US$22,000,000 million) which is provided by the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) and is part funded by the Government of Guyana.
LO-2741 was signed on March 15, 2013, which encompasses Implementation Support and Civil Works that includes Civil Works – Sheriff Street – Mandela Avenue, Other Civil Projects, East Bank Berbice, West Bank Demerara – Canals 1 and 2; Studies; Urban Transport, Road Safety Diagnostic and Action Plan, road Safety Awareness Campaign; Implementation Support – Construction Supervision and Institutional Strengthening; and Routine maintenance Management System. The total value of the Loan is Sixty Nine Million, two Hundred Thousand United States Dollars (US$69,200,000 Million) which is provided by The Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) and is part funded by the Government of Guyana.
Loans 2215, 2454, and 2741 were developed with the aim of providing the following:
· Reduction of generalized transport and logistical costs, contributing to economic growth and social development;
· Reduction of future periodic road maintenance costs;
· Improved mobility and accessibility of surrounding communities including pedestrian access and village to village travel;
· Reduction of traffic related fatalities and injuries; and
· Improved user satisfaction.
LO: 2454: East Bank Demerara 4-Lane
The East Bank Demerara 4-lane project is awarded in three (3) lots to expand the roadway between Providence and Diamond. The scope of works includes the following activities:
· Construction of an additional two lanes on the eastern side of the existing East Bank Demerara Public Road;
· Widening and rehabilitation of the existing carriageway;
· Relocation of Public Utilities;
· Provision of road safety features such as signage, bus stop, road markings, lighting and traffic light;
· Construction of concrete kerbs and drains;
· Construction and expansion of bridges and Culvert along the Road alignment.
· Construction of sidewalks, median, parking lanes, bicycle lane, etc.
Awards of the three Lots are listed below:-
East Bank Demerara Four Lane Project
See Details on Appendix 1
All three contracts were awarded to the three contractors as listed on attachment. Each contract was signed on October 3, 2011 with a commencement date of November 1, 2011 and an initial completion date of April 30, 2013. The project duration was 18 months, while the Defects, Notification Period was 24 months from the issuance of the Taking Over Certificate.
East Coast Demerara – Four Lane Project
This project was awarded in seven (7) Lots as listed above. There has been protracted delays on this project. Lot 1 was terminated by the Ministry on July 31, 2012 for breach – the contractual obligations in terms of Clause 15.6 “ Corrupt or Fraudulent Practices’ by the Contractor as recommended by the Attorney General. The Contractor has however taken the matter to Court for wrongful termination of contract. This is now engaging the attention of the High Court.
All remaining works on this Lot were awarded to Dipcon Engineering Services Ltd.
See Appendix 11
LO:2741 – Road Network and Upgrade and Expansion Programme
This Project will be implemented in 6 categories, namely Civil Works, studies, Sustainable Urban Transport and Road Safety, Implementation Support and Institutional strengthening, Routine Maintenance and Audit. The financing composed as follows:
Programme Objectives
The objectives of the Programme are as follows:
· The general objective of the Programme is to enhance mobility and safety by reducing vehicle operating costs, travel times and road fatalities. This objective will be achieved through the upgrade, improvement and expansion of the road network.
· The specific objectives of the Programme are to: (i) rehabilitate, improve, expand and construct roads, streets, sidewalks and bikeways; (ii) improve the road safety; (iii) strengthen the institutional capacity of the Executing Agency; and (iv) provide for the maintenance of the roads.
Contractual matters between Bank and Client
The Bank informed Works Services group that they need to revise the Evaluation for Sheriff Street Mandela Project. This is as a result of the Bank conducting further due diligence outside of what was done by Works Services group on the two.
Status of Project
Component 1: Civil Works:
Sheriff Street – Mandela Avenue Road
Please see details on Appendix 111 attached.
Road Safety Works Project for East Bank Demerara 4-Lane
Projects were developed to utilize funds available to address Road Safety interventions on the existing East Bank Demerara Four Lane Road. The Projects identified are as follows:
· Pedestrian Overpass for East Bank demerara Highway and DemeraraHarbour Bridge intersection;
· Installation of Crash Cushions and Barriers for sections of the roadway;
· Installation of Guide Signs along the roadway;
· Installation of Thermoplastic Road Marking;
· Installation of Traffic Signals.
The following Studies are also ongoing:
Feasibility study for East Bank Berbice – New Amsterdam to Everton.
Feasibility Study for Canals No. 1 and 2.
We cancelled the studies for West Bank Demerara road since the consultant was not performing and did not make any submission to date for this work.
Anticipated Benefits
Improved driving and road safety conditions on our roads.
Government of Guyana (Nationally Funded Roads Programme)
The Ministry of Public Infrastructure through the Works Services Group (WSG) has been constructing/rehabilitating roads in Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10 under the Miscellaneous and Urban Roads Programme.
A budgeted amount of GUY2.38 Billion and GUY 200 Million had been allocated under the Miscellaneous and Urban Roads Programme respectively for 2014. At the end of the 2014 fiscal year, 185 Miscellaneous Roads and 20 Urban Roads were approved by Ministry of Finance as multiyear projects at an estimated cost of GUY 1,270,207,209 and GUY 79,953,656 respectively.
Among the major works proposed to be undertaken is the Maintenance and Rehabilitation of community roads in all of the above Regions. The works included:-
· Overlay of streets
· Pothole repairs
· Construction and cleaning of drains
· Construction/Repairs to bridges
The construction/rehabilitation of these roads will benefit residents in all of the above regions, including but not limited to motorists, motorcyclist, pedal cyclist and pedestrians.
Some of the benefits include reduced travel time, providing accesses to homes and schools, and easy transport of agricultural goods to and from the communities. (e.g. Burma Road, Cane Grove and East Bank Berbice).
Progress of Works
2014 Miscellaneous and Urban Projects
Works was/is being executed under the 2014 Miscellaneous Roads programme in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. To date, works in Regions 2 and 6 are 100% completed. In Region 6, corrective works were executed on sections of the 12 km East Bank Berbice project undertaken by the contractor. In addition, a detailed audit is currently ongoing to ensure value for money was achieved for this project.
In Region 3, 88% of works are completed to date on the roll over projects. Works are ongoing mainly in Wakenaam. It is 25% completed, upon completion 860 meters of roadway will be rehabilitated with a DBST surface finish at an estimated cost of 24.1 million dollars.
In Region 4, 95% of the roll over projects is completed. All works are expected to be completed during the coming month.
In Regions 1, 2, 5, 6 the day to day supervision and implementation of projects are being undertaken by the respective Regional Democratic Council, with technical support being provided by the Works Services Group.
All Urban Roads awarded in Regions 2, 4, 6 and 10 in 2014 have been completed. There is a substantial saving of $25M under this programme. The Ministry has proposed to utilize this saving on other identified projects.
During this month, the 2015 Miscellaneous and Urban Roads Budget were resubmitted to Ministry of Finance at a value of 1.4 Billion and 163 Million Dollars respectively. Sections of the Sophia, Cane Ville, Mahaicony branch Road and Good Hope Road Network will be rehabilitated, in addition to the Georgetown Clean Up.
Nationally Funded Bridges Project (Capital)
Moleson Creek Acrow Panel Bridge No. 1: $23,385,420 Reduction in travelling time to the Suriname Ferry Stelling
Sophia/Guyhoc Bridge: $1,459,995 Better access for residents in the area.
Bounty Hall Bridge, Essequibo Coast $10.501M Improved access for residents
Under the Maintenance of Bridges Programme – twenty(20) Bridges were maintained on the East Coast Demerara, West Coast Demerara and East Bank Demerara and the Railway Embankment totaling $40,225,642.
Hinterland Projects 2014
Budget allocation – One billion (G) dollars
Expenditure at the end of 2014 was $883.086M.
Rehabilitation and maintenance of roads in:-
Region 1 - 126Km
Region 7 - 7 Km
Region 9 - 658 Km
Region 10 - 100 Km/891 Km
Details of the roads are set out in Appendix IV.
In the 2015 Budget a sum of $968.569M has been provided for the construction and rehabilitation of interior roads.
Force Account Unit– is the arm of the Ministry which executes maintenance works for roads, bridges and other infrastructural works. The Unit for 2014 had maintained approximately 359 Km of roads.
The allocation and expenditure are set out below:-
Location
Allocation 2014
Expenditure 2014
Region 2
$50M
51,331,731
Region 3
$60M
60,000,000
Region 4
$100M
100,087,651
Region 5
$55M
46,560,060
Region 6
$120M
115,565,886
Maintenance of Declared Public Roads
$20M
231,381,257
Total
$605M
601,926,585
The works included:
· Minor rehabilitation of local failure;
· Pot hole patching;
· Crack fill longitudinal/transverse/edge cracks;
· Levelling and apply thin overlay to rutting;
· Surface seal block cracking;
· Road safety maintenance (Road Markings and Signs);
· Cleaning or clearing of existing drains;
· Grading and shaping of road shoulders;
· Revetment installation.
In 2015 under the maintenance of roads programme $829.647M has been provided.
Traffic and Highway Lights
Allocation 2014 Expenditure 2014
Traffic Lights $16M $10.531M
Highway Lights $18M $22.668M
Energy Cost:
Traffic Lights (46) - $4,653,107
Highway Lights (5648) - $492,986,540
Traffic Signals
Traffic signals installed - 50
Traffic signals operational - 46
Traffic signals decommissioned - 2
Traffic signals not working - 2
Damage to Road Furniture
Description
Traffic
Highway
Barriers
Total Cost due to accidents
Damage due to accidents
6
49
16 sets
Cost
$1,688,060
$15,832,726
$1,733,600
$19,254,386
Highway Lights Installation
New Highway Lights were installed at the following locations:
· Seven (7) lights at Moleson Creek Terminal Approach.
· 100 Lights at No. 44 to 50 Villages on the Corentyne.
· 41 Lights at Abary Bridge (East and West Approach)
· 126 Lights at MacKenzie, Linden.
Refurbished Highway Lights
· 15 Lights at Republic Road, New Amsterdam.
· 5 Lights at Century Palm Gardens, Durban Backlands.
Motor Cycles
The Ministry purchased eight (8) motor cycles to aid in traffic safety for the Guyana Police Force. These bikes cost $15M (G), and was purchased from an IDB Support loan and handed over to the Guyana Police Force..
Accidents in 2014
In the year 2014, 135 fatal traffic accidents occurred on Guyana’s roads, which resulted in the death of 146 persons. Those numbers generated a 23.7% increase in fatal accidents and a 23.3% increase in fatalities when compared with 2013. Additionally, there was a 37.5% increase in the number of children killed on the roadways for 2014 when compared with 2013.
Class of Road User Killed
Road Users Killed 2013 2014
Pedestrian 39 60
Driver 17 16
Motor Cyclist 18 26
Pedal Cyclist 13 20
Passenger 22 23
Pillion Rider 3 1
Total 112 146
2015 Projections – Foreign Funded Projects
Civil Works Projects
· East Bank Berbice, Region 6 - Feasibility studies completed for Phase 2 Stanley
Town to Everton: presently awaiting IDB No
Objection to proceed with tendering.
· Canal Nos 1 & 2, West Bank Demerara - Feasibility studies are on-going; expect completed in 2015.
· East Bank Demerara Road - Feasibility studies completed; awaiting final
(Grove to Timehri) submission by Consultants CEMCO/EXP.
Urban Transport Studies
This study will develop a specific diagnostic of the urban transport situation, problems and trends and provide recommendations on matters of public transport infrastructure, operations, financing and institutional organization.
Proposed Traffic Lights Locations for 2015 Exclusive of new Highways:
i. Caricom Building/New Mall Vicinity – Railway Embankment
ii. Bel Air and Railway Embankment (Works started – expected completion in 2015.)
iii. 5-Corner Junction, Mackenzie, Linden
iv. Mackenzie/Wismar Bridge, Linden
v. Schoonard, West Bank Demerara – (Northern Entrance to Parfait Harmony)
Sea and River DefenceProgrammes
In 2014 the following were achieved:-
Description of Works
Length of Works (Km)
Category
Programmed
Achieved
New Construction
3.06
3.195
Rehabilitation
2.805
10.29
Maintenance
20.7
45.4
Total Budgetary Allocation and Expenditure
Budgeted
Expenditure
1,300,000,000
202,829,000
Donor Funded Projects
300,000,000
0.000
1,802,829,000
1,502,829,000
Among some of the major works completed in 2014 were:
· Slope Protection Works at Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, Region 2: $107,884,000
· Construction of rip rap river defences at Cane Garden: $43,840,625
· Construction of rip rap Sea Defences at Greenwich Park, East Bank
Essequibo, Region 3 $42,294,000
· Emergency Works at Rotterdam, West Coast Demerara, Region 3: $61,110,500
· Construction of River Defences at Mosquito Hall, Mahaica, East
Coast Demerara, Region 4 $275,544,650
· Rehabilitation of Fort Groyne, Kingston, Georgetown $11,656,000
Sea and River Defence 2015 – In 2015 $1,081.084 has been provided (Capital $1,021.084 and Current $60M).
Work will continue in the following 8 Sea and River Defence Districts:
District 1 – Essequibo Coast &Pomeroon - Charity, Coffee Grove, Cotton Field/Bush
Lot/Reliance.
District 2 – Wakenaam Island - Noitgedaat, Belle Plain, Melville/San Souci,
Zeelandia
District 3 – Leguan Island - La Bagatelle, Maryville, Amsterdam/
Canefield
District 4 – West Coast Demerara - De Willem/Zeeburg, Parika, Orangestein
District 5 – East Coast Demerara - Mosquito Hall, Georgetown Sea Defences,
Friendship, Craig/Good Success
District 6 & 7 – West Coast Berbice - Golden Fleece, Weldad
District 8 – East and Corentyne Coast, - Glasgow, Overwinning/Islington, Crabwood
Berbice Creek, Crab Island
Other Regions/Locations - Bartica, Fort Island, Linden, Mabaruma
CDB Funded 3rd Sea Defence Project – 5.4 Km
$140.700M provided in 2015 Budget.
Reconstruction works should commence in 2015.
The critical areas listed for rehabilitation are:
· Johanna Cecelia/Zorg, Essequibo Coast, Region 2 - (1,000m)
· Success, Leguan Island, Region3 - (500m)
· Endeavour/Blenheim, Leguan Island, Region 3 - (430m)
· Grove/Look Out, East Bank Essequibo, Region 3 - (530m)
· Crane/Harlem/Rotterdam/Mary/West Coast Demerara,
Region 3 - (1000m)
· Good Success/New Hope, East Bank Demerara, Region 4 - (500m)
· Lonsdale/sister’s Village, East bank Berbice, Region 6 - (700m)
· No. 78 Village to Line Path, Corentyne, Region 6 - (700m)
Shortage of Experienced Contractors for Rip Rap Works
There are a limited number of Contractors who have the capacity and technical knowhow, finance and capability to execute rip-rap works; as such, the procurement of contractors for the execution of sea defence works is difficult at times.
There are four main contractors who would regularly submit tenders for rip rap construction works. This affects completion and execution of contracts, because these contractors also execute other construction works which makes it difficult to tender or to complete existing contracts.
Several contractors have been shortlisted this year for works but just a few have reached the criteria to be shortlisted for works within the Division. The existing experienced contractors have exceeded their capacity and it is having a negative effect on most of our projects. Some of the projects for this year are even behind schedule because of this problem.
Procurement of Materials
Major materials used for construction are rock and filter fabric. While aggregates are available locally, filter fabric has to be imported. Delivery time for the imported materials has adverse effects on completion time. Timely budget approval can significantly aid in this regard.
Aggregates are in demand for various types of construction. Timely budget approvals will assist manufacturers in planning production schedules which should minimize delays experienced in supply.
Analysis of the rate of quarry production and delivery as against the total amount of quarry materials required annually was conducted and it shows that the demand is out weighing the supply, which is having a negative effect on projects.
Performance of Contractors
The performance of contractors is still an issue since most contractors have a general problem with the management of projects. Several of the large scale contractors are not performing due to a lack of a competent project management team. These contractors are also tendering for excessive amount of project and they are not fully equipped to handle so many projects causing delays in start up of project and failing to complete projects within the specified time as allocated.
There is a great need for contractors to reassess their performance on the contracts awarded to them and make the necessary changes to avoid being black listed for none performance.
Lesson Learnt
Procurement of Works
Works packaging is still essential. The packaging/lots should be sized to allow both local and foreign contractors to compete. Project management has realized that in procuring contractors for rehabilitation/construction works it is essential to obtain reassurance on the reliability and delivery of Quarry materials. Project Management is now convinced that before contracts are awarded, proper analysis should be done of contractor’s/consultant’s ability to handle more than one job simultaneously. The Division has found that the stock piling of materials (Armour Layer Rocks, Under Layer Rocks, Crusher Run and Gabion Baskets and Geotextile) on site is very cost effective in executing works. Thus more emphasis should be placed on this method of procurement of materials to carry out works.
Investigation
The Division must ensure through field investigations before projects are designed and tendered out. More emphasis will have to be spent on soil investigation, hydrographic surveys and water level recording. In some instances, parameters were assumed during design and had to be amended during construction.
Projection for July – December, 2015
Nationally Funded Programme
All roll over contracts would be completed. It is expected that new contracts for 2015 as specified in the 2015 budget would be awarded and works commence.
The contracts for the Miscellaneous and Urban roads that rolled over from 2014 have been completed; it has been a challenge for the Engineers and Clerk of Works to get these contractors to execute works in a timely manner - 75% of the contractors were given extension of time to complete their projects. However, the Ministry is working to ensure that all contracts rolled over are completed before commencement of 2015 projects. The Engineers within the department are working overtime to ensure the realization of the works planned programmes for 2015.
Coastal Defence Strategy
The chosen coastal defence strategy combines a certain element of identifying the worst stretches of sea defence works for rehabilitation, while covering the rest of the shoreline with a rapid response strategy. This combination provides time for the institutions to build up needed manpower, establish routine and procedures, undertake initial stockpiling of materials, while at the same time rehabilitating critical stretches of sea defences.
Following the implementation of our strategy a number of sites along the shore in selected, critical areas have been identified for upgrade under the 10th EDF, CDB and the nationally funded programme.
The CheddiJagan International Airport Corporation (CJIAC) –continued to discharge its mandate to the travelling public and has had a successful year in 2014.
For the third consecutive year the Airport Corporation collected revenues in excess of G$1Bn – increase collected in 2014 has almost doubled in the last six years. Expenditure in 2014 was $678M. Amount transferred to the Consolidated Fund was $394M.
Statistics
Passengers: International passenger arrivals for 2014 was 236,851 or 1% higher than 235,967 in 2013. Total passengers flown – 478,092.
Cargo: Imported Cargo for 2014 amounted to 3,296,000 Kg: this represents 44% increase over the previous year.
25% of the cargo was industrial supplies, while 21% personal effects, another 21% for hatching eggs and 33% consolidated cargo.
Exports: Amounted to 2,852,00 Kg or a 16% increase from that of the corresponding period in 2013.
88% of the Cargo was Industrial Products and Livestock while 12% was consolidated cargo.
Aircraft Movement - International Aircraft Landing was 3,696. This was 3% lower than in 2013.
Jet Aircraft Landings increased from 2,523 to 2,933 primarily due to the introduction of additional flights from COPA, Conviasa, Fly Jamaica and Dynamic Airways.
Turbo Prop and Smaller type aircraft landing reduced from 804 to 398 due mainly to LIAT’s flight.
Insel Air commenced operations in June, 2014 utilising the MD3 aircraft
Operators – utilizing a seating capacity of 152, flying the GEO – AVA route. Insel Air recently added the F 70 aircraft to their operations plying a direct service to Curacao with a seating capacity of 83
Passengers flown in 2014 – 8,894.
Dynamic Airways commenced operations in June 2014, flying GEO – JFK using the Boeing 763 and 762 aircraft with seating capacities of 269 and 218 respectively. However, they developed difficulties that caused a halt in the operations in July and a restart in November, 2014. Passengers flown in 2014 – 5,411.
Copa commenced continuous flights from July 2014 flying the GEO – PAN route utilisisng the Boeing 737 – 800, with a seating capacity of 160, the 737 – 700 with a seating capacity of 124 and E190 aircraft seating 94. Passengers flown in 2014: 9,387.
Conviasa. Flight was launched on Saturday 23 November, 2013 with a MD83 and a seating capacity of 104, continues to provide weekly service from Guyana to Venezuela (Puerto Ordaz). This Airline ceased operating on 6 June, 2015. Passengers flown in 2014: 7,507.
Fly Jamaica. Commenced operations in August 2013, flying the GEO – JGK – GEO and GEO – YYZ – GEO routes. The aircraft type Boeing 757 – 200 is configured with 12 business class seats and 186 economy seats giving a seating capacity of 198 passengers. They also acquired a second aircraft a B767 with a seating capacity of 246 seats, divided into 12 business class and 234 economy class seats. This equipment type was being utilized for the entire December since its acquisition in November, 2014. Passengers flown in 2014: 31,059.
Suriname Airways continues to provide thrice weekly service on the Paramaribo – Georgetown – Miami route with two of its B737 – 300 aircraft having a seating capacity of 126 seats while the third has a capacity of 116 seats. Passengers flown in 2014: 13,376.
Caribbean Airline Ltd. continues direct flight between the JFK Airport – New York and CJIA - Timehri using its 767 – 300 and its 737 – 800. For the Toronto, Canada and CJIA – Timehri route, the 737 – 800 is used. There was a short stint early in the year where an experiment was conducted to use the 767 – 300 on the Toronto route, however, when the returns were analysed, CAL decided against this direct flight using this equipment type and opted to use their 737 – 800. They continued their connection feeds from Piarco Ltd. (Trinidad) to the rest of the Caribbean. Passengers flown: 366,880.
LIAT occasionally provided services on the Barbados – Georgetown route using the ATR72 aircraft.. Passengers flown: 729
Travel Span commenced flights out of CJIAC, Timehri on 14/12/2013 with a Boeing 767 Aircraft carrying some 229 persons – including 180 passengers and 10 crew members. Travel Span suspended its operations on 26 September, 2014, citing expenses incurred from the numerous cancelled flights and increased operational costs as the reason for their decision. Passengers flown in 2014: 32,15.
Safety – The Ebola site was constructed in the month of October, 2014 after the outbreak in Western Africa. The Ministry of Health created an observation room at the preparation entrance to the Terminal Immigration and all persons coming from certain countries were invited to an interview where they were questioned before entry to the country was permitted.
Security - CJIAC installed 51 additional cameras within and around the Airport at a cost of $48M (G). Since its implementation in late November, there have been several instances where the CCTV coverage were able to assist with investigations. Some of the notable incidents which we were able to thoroughly investigate includes:
§ Cocaine in Cream Liqueur
§ Cocaine in Rum
§ Recovery of passengers Jewellery, Ipad, Money
§ Stolen passenger luggage
Increase in The beginning of the year saw the Aviation Security Division staffed by 56 ranks.
Aviation During 2014 an additional 26 ranks were recruited thus the current staffing in
Security the Aviation Security Department is 80.This increase in staffing has allowed the Corporation to deploy more manpower across the various checkpoints and exercise greater control.
Training Is an important element of the Airport Operations with special emphasis being placed on Safety, Security, Facilitation and Customer Service.
To this end, during 2014 several staff were exposed to training in these areas, some of which were:-
· Instructors Training Course - 12 Officers
· Security Awareness Training - 138 Airport Employees
· Identification of Narcotics and Potential Suppliers - 60 ranks
Quality Assurance Training - 15 Officers
· Airport Risk Mitigation done by TSA - 9 ranks
· Self Defence Training done by GDF - 43 ranks
· Traffic Warden training (done by GDF) - 30 ranks
· Health and Safety Training - 23 employees
· Fire Extinguisher Training - 24 persons trained
· Basic Conversational Spanish Training - 40 persons trained
· Customer Service Training - 63 staff
Special Events:
During the year (2014) the Corporation successfully co-ordinated several activities including:
· Republic and Independence Days Celebration.
· Arrivals Day Celebration
· Phagwah Celebration
· Easter Meet and Greet
· Diwali Meet and Greet
· CJIAC Santa Parade
· Christmas Meet and Greet
· School Tours.
Customer Service - The Unit was established in October, 2013 with the mission to
Unit deliver a friendly, professional and hospitable environment for all
Airport users. It currently boasts 4 staff.
Their responsibilities include the following:
· Provide a welcome service to passengers at Check in, Arrivals and to assist in smoothing the customer journey through the Airport.
· To problem solve on site issues which impact on passenger experiences.
· To take service recovery measures when appropriate to protect the customer experience.
· And act as a liaison between passenger and management.
Airport Expansion Project
Scope
· Extension of the main Runway by 3,500 feet to a length of 10,500 feet (Class 4E) capable of accommodating the Boeing 747 – 400 feet aircraft).
· Project cost – US$150M.
· CHEC Contract – US$138M
· Commencement date – 16 January, 2013.
· Original Contract Period – 23 months.
· Original completion date – 16 September, 2015.
· Defects liability period – 365 days.
Work Done
Construction of site office and accommodation for the Runway extension was completed.
Humus Excavation and Sand Backfilling
· Total area to be cleared, excavated and backfilled is 304,000 sq. m. – Area cleared at end of December, 2014 was 34,013 square meters or 11%.
· Total amount of humus to be excavated and removed is 1,652,383 cu. M. (82,620 truck loads). Humus removed to date – 299,200 cu. M. (14,960 truck loads) or 18%.
· Total amount of sand to be backfilled is 10,456,760 cub. m. (522, 838 truck loads). Sand backfilled to date 575,250 cub. m. (28,763 truck loads) or 5.5%.
Labour
· At the end of December, 2014, 230 Guyanese National were employed on the project.
· Presently there are 49 nationals and 45 CHEC employees working on the Project.
· The Project is expected to provide employment for over 500 Guyanese nationals.
The Ministrywas forced to suspend the contract between the Chinese State Company, China Harbour Engineering (CHEC) Ltd. and the Government of Guyana as a result of irregularities and missed deadlines and failure to carry out proper engineering studies.
However, following discussions between the Government and the Contractor, it was agreed that the claims of US$46.8M by the Contractor would be capped at US$23.6M. This includes all claims to date, all variations, all design phases now and the future.
The revised scope of works will now be, among other things, construction of the extended runway – 3,500 feet – expand and renovate the existing Terminal Buildings.
The project is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2017.
The completion of the entire project will not exceed US$150M.
US$138M by the Exim Bank of China
US$ 12M by the Government of Guyana
There will be no mass relocation of the Timehri North residents except for about 15 residents.
The Vendors along the Airport’s Access Road will be removed and given first preference in the Commercial Mall when completed.
Projections for 2015
· Continuation of Airport Expansion Project - $143.813 allocated in the 2015 Budget
· Completion of Emergency Operational Centre (EOC).
· Conduct a full scale emergency exercise in 2015 to test the emergency procedures.
· Upgrade of the Executive Lounge.
· Crack sealing on the surface of Runway 11 – 29.
· Resurfacing of the airport Public Car Park.
· Modify and Upgrade Water System for the airport facility and construction of new pump house.
· To procure and install Lighted Aerodrome Signs.
· Installation of additional Perimeter Fence Lighting.
· Establishment of a Modern training Room equipped with computers to be used for internal training/on line training.
Aerodromes Division
Total Budget 2014 - $66,818,000
Total Expenditure to 31st December - $66,612,523 = 99.78%
Routine maintenance were carried out on the undermentioned Airstrips in 2014:
No
Name of Airstrip
Contract Sum
Total Payment 2014
Remarks
1
Anna Regina
580,000
All these
2
Apoteri
400,000
Aerodromes are
3
Annai
440,000
in satisfactory
4
Aishalton
condition
5
Aricheng
600,000
Awaruwaunawau
7
Baramita
720,000
8
Bermichi
9
Bartica
520,000
10
Chi Chi
11
Ekerekru (B)
12
Iwokrama
560,000
13
Itabac
14
Imbaimadai
800,000
15
Kaikan
480,000
16
Kato
17
Karisparu
18
Kamarang
19
Karanambo
20
Karasabai
21
Kurukabaru
22
Kurupung (B)
640,000
23
Kopinang
500,000
24
Lethem
25
Lumid Pau
26
Mabaruma
27
Maikwak
28
Matthews Ridge
29
Monkey Mountain
30
Mountain Point
31
Orinduik
32
Paramakatoi
33
Paruima
34
Port Kaituma
35
Sand Creek
36
Shea
37
Wakenaam
38
Wichabai
39
Wineperu
40
Mahdia
41
Chenapau
42
Gunns
43
Kaieteur
44
Maruranau
45
Phillipi
46
Kwakwani
Payments were made on a quarterly basis.
A
Cutting of grass and small trees and removing of all shrubs within the runway and runway strip area.
B
Filling of Pot Holes and track with Laterite and running strip area.
C
Parching and sealing of Potholes with Bitumen where there is paved runway surface.
D
Digging and Clearing of drains
E
Painting of Pyramid Type runway markers
F
Changing of Windsocks
G
Repairs of Fence where there is fence at aerodromes
Corrective maintenance Works was done to six (6) Aerodromes in Region 1 – 8 – 9.
Painting of Visual Aid Marking at the following aerodromes:
· Paramakatoi
· Kaieteur
· Annai
· Mabaruma
· Lethem – Repairs to Perimeter Fence and Painting of Visual Aid Marking and clearing of Trees within the Aerodrome.
· Madhia – Repairs to Perimeter Fence and Painting of Visual Aid Marking.
· Aerodromes Licences – All these aerodromes were inspected for the year 2014 and all Licences were renewed by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for the year 2014 – 2015. The cost for these is one million one hundred forty thousand dollars ($1,140,000).
Capital Expenditure
Under Capital Budget 2014, G$185M was allocated for the Rehabilitation of four (4) Airstrips as follows:-
· Matthews Ridge, Region 1 - G$74M
· Port Kaituma, Region No. 1 - G$50M
· Kamarang, Region No. 7 - G$35M
· Imbaimadai, Region No. 7 - G$26M
Approval was also granted for inclusion of the Rehabilitation of the following Airstrip:
· Phillipai, Region No. 7 - G$12.1M
· Pariuma, Region No. 7 - G$13.0M
All the abovementioned Airstrips have been satisfactorily completed.
In 2015 the sum of $79.15M has been allocated for:
· Payment of retention for Matthews Ridge, Port Kaituma, Kamarang and Imbaimadai;
· Rehabilitation of Eteringbang and Madhia Airstrips.
Ministry of Public Works/Infrastructure
1. Total Budget 2014 (Current and Capital) $17,482,551,308
2. Total Budget 2015 (Current and Capital) $17,747,543,000
Increase over 2014 is $264,991,652 ($17,747,534,000 less $17,482,551,348)
i.e. 1.5% increase over 2014
The Ministry’s Budget is 8% of the National Budget i.e.
17,747,543,000
X 100
221,000,000,000
Expenditure at August 17, 2015 is $4,468,337,459
Capital: $3,078,859,492
Current: $1,389,477,967
From now to December 31, 2015 the Ministry has to spend $13,279,205,541.
