Developments in economy positive
--- PPP by Chamanlall Naipaul
Guyana Chronicle
June 4, 2004

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THE RULING People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has noted recent positive developments in the economy of Guyana, particularly the increase in production at LINMINE under new management as well as consideration of producing new products such as alumina.

General Secretary of the PPP, Donald Ramotar at a press conference yesterday at Freedom House said the Central Committee of the party met on May 22 and discussed current developments both at the local and international levels.

Ramotar expressed optimism that the modernization of the sugar industry, which is scheduled to begin shortly, will see Guyana not only producing raw sugar, but would also result in the generation of electricity, adding value to molasses and possibly refining sugar as well.

In addition, he noted that massive infrastructural works are ongoing, including the replacement of bridges from Timehri to Rosignol with reinforced concrete structures, while the resurfacing of major roads is to begin shortly.

He said, too, that progress has been made on the confirmation of the execution of the Berbice River Bridge, the stadium, the International Convention Centre and new hospitals for Linden, New Amsterdam and Lethem. “All of these will no doubt have beneficial effects on the economy in the short, medium and long term,” Ramotar offered.

Continuing strides in education, health, housing and water among others as well as the in the area of participatory and inclusive governance were also acknowledged by the Central Committee, Ramotar reported.

However, pointed out that while the Central Committee noted these positive developments it also recognized the unfavourable effects on the economy as a result of the rise in oil prices.

The Central Committee expressed confidence that the genuine concerns of individuals and communities would be addressed in an expeditious and sustained manner.

Asked whether the party is satisfied with the energy situation in the country, particularly the dependence on fossil fuels, the General Secretary alluded to the exploration of alternative sources of energy being pursued by the government including hydroelectricity and wind power as evidence of the steps being taken to address the issue.

Touching on the issue of seasonal flooding Ramotar said the PPP has recognized the improvements in the management of flooding, but is of the view that had maintenance of the drainage and irrigation system and infrastructure been executed earlier much more could have been achieved.

Dealing specifically with an incident at Fyrish/Gibraltar on the Corentyne Ramotar condemned the actions of some persons who dug ditches on roads in the community.

“It should be noted that such actions were taken by a few misguided elements, shortly after a visit by Robert Corbin, the leader of the PNC/R. Moreover, most of the issues raised by the community were satisfactorily addressed by the administration. Those elements determined to cause problems than called on the Chairman of the NDC to be removed. It is apposite to note that the current Chairman of the Fyrish/Gibraltar NDCis not from the PPP/C. If that were the main problem then he could have been removed by the internal arrangements of the PNC/R influenced community grouping. Clearly therefore, that was a mere excuse for causing mischief, in accordance with the present political line of the PNC/R,” Ramotar charged.

He explained further that a pump has been ordered for the area as agreed to in the dialogue between President Bharrat Jagdeo and Opposition Leader Robert Corbin, but in the meanwhile the regional administration has deployed a pump to ease the flooding in the area.

The General Secretary contended that the withdrawal of the PNC/R from parliament ostensibly because of the “Gajraj affair” is a clear indication that the PNC/R’s intention is to be disruptive, adding that apparently that party does not want a conclusion of the matter based on the negative stand it has taken to the Commission of Inquiry announced by the President.

He observed that the PNC/R’s absence from Parliament could frustrate important constitutional appointments such as the Equality, Rights of the Child and Procurement Commissions. These measures, he added is important for protecting people’s rights and enhancing good governance.

“Obviously, perceived narrow political goals are far more important to the PNC/R leadership than the interest of the Guyanese people as a whole,” Ramotar charged.

He nevertheless said the PPP is always open to dialogue and exhorted the PNC/R to behave in a more matured manner and to discuss issues in an effort to bring resolution to differences.

The Central Committee took note of what it described of the emerging tense situation in this hemisphere and the build up of arms in several regions, despite the end of the cold war.

It also called for a comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian problem which must take into consideration the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and the security interests of the parties involved.

The General Secretary said his party offers its best wishes to the incoming heads of the disciplined services and is fully supportive of all bodies comprising the disciplined forces and called for their professional conduct at all times.

He also said that the PPP views the G-90 meeting that was held here yesterday as being timely in dealing with issues that have direct bearing on the lives of people, adding that trade has always been seen as an activity in bringing social and economic benefits.