Guyana Economy Doing Better Than Barbados-2009!

http://blp.org.bb/news/1028

Guyana Economy Doing Better Than Barbados-2009!

Saturday, 14 Nov 2009

Commendable performance of the economy under current circumstances The financial crisis which has gripped the world has sent shockwaves across the major economies of the world and has had rippling effects across the developing world as development aid and forms of assistance has significantly dried up and many countries are still struggling to recover from the impact of the massive increases in food prices which occurred only a year ago and earlier skyrocketing fuel prices.
According to Wikipedia the financial crisis of 2007–2009 has been called by leading economists the worst financial crisis since the one related to the Great Depression of the 1930s. It contributed to the failure of key businesses, declines in consumer wealth estimated in the trillions of U.S. dollars, substantial financial commitments incurred by governments, and a significant decline in economic activity. Many causes have been proposed, with varying weight assigned by experts. Both market-based and regulatory solutions have been implemented or are under consideration, while significant risks remain for the world economy.

The collapse of a global housing bubble, which peaked in the U.S. in 2006, caused the values of securities tied to housing prices to plummet thereafter, damaging financial institutions globally. Questions regarding bank solvency, declines in credit availability, and damaged investor confidence caused a ripple effect in global stock markets, which suffered large losses during 2008.

Economies worldwide slowed in late 2008 and early 2009 as credit tightened and international trade declined. Critics argued that credit rating agencies and investors failed to accurately price the risk involved with mortgage-related financial products, and that governments did not adjust their regulatory practices to address 21st century financial markets. Governments and central banks responded with unprecedented fiscal stimulus, monetary policy expansion, and institutional bailouts.

The crisis in U.S. financial markets is raising uncertainty and dampening growth prospects around the world, but the IMF still expects a gradual economic recovery during 2009, IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn said.

Speaking in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, after the latest U.S. action to stem the worsening crisis on Wall Street, Strauss-Kahn said that the financial turmoil was very serious and other major financial institutions could be expected to face trouble.

"The consequences for some financial institutions are still in front of us. We have to expect that there may be in the coming weeks and coming months other financial institutions with some problems," he told reporters.

The financial crisis would have repercussions for the global economy that is already in a slowdown. But Strauss-Kahn saw resilience in developing countries, aided by falling oil prices. "What is important to see is that it has an influence on the real economy but that the real economy is resilient both in developed and emerging countries."

While Guyana has not escaped from the repercussions of the financial crisis a sound macro-economic architecture which has been formulated over recent years has certainly helped to minimise the effects on our economy.

Only recently President Jagdeo drew attention to the fact that while many of our regional counterparts have instituted a wage freeze we are still granting wage increases and in this regard he assured that the public sector will receive an increase for this year.

Notably too Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, in a mid-year review tabled in the National Assembly on Thursday said that at the end of the reporting period, the non-sugar economy recorded positive growth, with expansion in output reflected across a broad base of sectors, pointing out that the Guyana economy has withstood challenges from the continuing global economic downturn and modest growth is projected by the end of the year.

This result undoubtedly demonstrated early returns to the government’s efforts at diversification, with the strongest rates of growth achieved in non-traditional agriculture sub-sectors. That notwithstanding, difficulties were encountered in some traditional sectors…on balance, the economy is still projected to achieve positive growth at the end of the year and continued macroeconomic stability is expected to be maintained,” the Finance Minister declared.

Of special note is the fact that the economy is projected to show a positive a growth for this year of 2.7% albeit a reduction from the projected 4.7% originally predicted. But under the current circumstances this is understandable and feather in the cap of those who are responsible for the management of the economy as well as the business sector which has continued to show confidence in the national economy.

Of course this positive news will be like poison for few among us but certainly welcome by the vast majority of Guyanese.

Source: Guyana Chronicle, November 14, 2009.
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Immigration Scam & Scam Artists!

October 19-2009:

Immigration Scam & Scam Artists!

Guyanese fleeced by some bogus immigration Lawyer name Malendez for thousands of US dollars.

This seems to be an ongoing dilemma with Guyanese being robbed by attorneys, masquerading as Legitimate Immigration Lawyers. And I cannot imagine how at this juncture, Guyanese have not yet learned their lessons.

There are Legitimate Immigration Agencies like "Immigration Coalition," and several others that you can access, or you dial 311 for help.

Or do some research on the Internet for FREE.

The Federal Plaza in Downtown-Manhattan-New York City, is also the place where you can access direct help or assistance with your Immigration enquiries for FREE too.

So if you are a FOOL, then you will be Played like a FOOL too by convicts!

Derryck.
NYC.

Recognizing Barack Obama's Quest For A Nuclear Free & Peaceful World:

October 09-2009:

Recognizing Barack Obama's Quest For A Nuclear Free & Peaceful World:


President Barack H. Obama was awarded the Nobel Prize Laureate For Peace & A Nuclear Free World. The 1.4 million EU or US dollars will be donated to Charity, says the Obama Administration.

This should also reinforce the expectations of Americans for bringing our troops home.

However, voices in many quarters of the public domain, wonder and is asking, what has he achieved to warrant this noble recognition?

But the decision to award him was made based on the above title, and the committee felt that he was indeed on the right path.

And has already made a significant difference in changing the global political climate, and reconciling with allies for past misconceptions or misdeeds, that America may have wrought towards some.

Meanwhile, the US & N.A.T.O. are bogged down in Iraq and Afghanistan, in a conflict with no rational end in sight. Plus the continued loss of civilian and military lives growing, on a daily basis.

However, only time will tell if he is truly qualified to have received this award!

Derryck.
NYC.

Is Guyana Still The Garden City Of The Caribbean?

October 04-2009:

Is Guyana Still The Garden City Of The Caribbean?


Preserving Our Architectural Heritage:

Today, most of the old Victorian, Lattice Windows, and Wooden Houses that was the historical landmarks of Demerara-Guiana is either long gone, or is in terrible disrepair. And what are we doing about it? And if not, why?

Every culture has it's own indigenous cultural heritage. Be it locally produced, or inherited. But all the same, there are some notable structures that all cultures identify as sacred, indigenous, and indicative or uniquely their own. And strive dearly to ensure they are preserved, and kept safe for all generations to come.


So why is Guyana today neglecting our structural heritage?

Some say it is because there is no money available to do the necessary repairs and preservation work. Others say, they are being neglected because they remind us of our colonial past too much. Others say that the present generation and government does not see it as a priority, or wants to redesign Georgetown-Demerara, according to a certain ethnic preference and heritage.

Whatever it is, failing to do so will eventually cause us to lose what we have always been proud to say was ours. And what has been used in the past, to culturally identify us as a people, with a certain uniqueness that is precisely our own.

Some of these places that need DIRE repairs and Preservation work are the following:

* St. George Cathedral:

* The Atlantic Sea Wall Structure (entirely).

* The Demerara Stabroek Market (and especially repairing the Clock).

* The Demerara La Penitence Market.

* The Round House At The Atlantic Sea Wall-Georgetown.

* The Demerara Lighthouse.

* Government House-Main Street Georgetown-Demerara.

* The Cultural Benab-Main Street-Kingston.

These are just a few that I can recall that should be immediately placed, under the Care and Supervision of" A National Trust & Heritage Fund/Commission."


Derryck S. Griffith.
Guyanese-NYC.

The Way Forward Politically For Guyana!

September 19-2009:


The Way Forward Politically For Guyana!

As I See It, the way forward for all Guyanese to attain True Self determination, Economic Growth, Less Poverty, Improved Educational Opportunities for ALL, Adequate Health Care & Health Care Services, Pure Drinking Water, Reliable Electricity Supplies for all regions, and Economic Growth, is to ensure the following:

* Start seeking out individuals with Moral, Judicial, and Social Credibility (who are also Guyanese by Birth), to form a Political Party via a Public Forum, to discuss and formulate policies that would ensure the following:

* Ensuring that Parity and Inclusion Of All Ethnic Groups, and Justice Under The Law For All Guyanese, regardless of Religious beliefs or affiliation.

* A National Mandate that ensures The National Constitution is not amended to accommodate any government, or extend term limits for any government in office.

* And that the Offices of the President & Prime Minister is held accountable to the people/commonweal, and does not usurp it's position for political expediency.

* And finally, a consorted effort to desist from Foul Mouthing/Name Calling, Personal Attacks on one's character, Ethnic Stereotyping, and Defamation of character based on Hearsay or some other concocted reason to defame or blackmail any Individual, Politician, or Political Challenger.

CONCLUSION:

If we continue on the path that is currently being exploited by Defamation of Character, Hearsay, Blackmail, or calling for the downfall of the current political administration. Will not solve our current issues or concerns, but might very well keep the Die Hards Alive, Strong, and Resistant to any changes that may be of value to all, and in the future for this country.

The only solution going forward is a POLITICAL one, via The BALLOT.

Derryck S. Griffith.
Guyanese-NYC.

My Emigration To America!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User_talk:Derryckgriffith

June 02-2009.

My Emigration To America!

This is an attempt to re-capture my formative years as a child growing up in British Guiana, my entrance into the world of work, my spate of service in The Guyana National Service Institution, Trade Union Activism, and my eventual emigration to The U.S.A.

I was born a raised in Charlestown. Georgetown, Demerara. British Guiana. Son of Ms. Enid Patricia Griffith. As a child I attended The Carmel R.C. School up to the fifth standard, then I left to enter the job market. This decision was taken after deliberation within myself, based on the harsh realities at home for survival. We were very poor, my mother struggled without a male (father figure) to support us financially. I was the only male out of five children, Patricia (the eldest), Derryck (that's me), Valerie, Eulyn & Eileen Griffith. We were all conceived 'out-of-wedlock. I was told on several occasions by my mother that my father disappeared when I was at the tender age of three. He left one day after visiting my mother to return to take me to see a 'cricket match' at the local stadium, but never came back since!

I left Primary School at age 16, and sought employment with The Guiana Lithographic Co. Ltd. It was one of The Booker Group of Industries in the colony of Guiana. This was a printing and box-making business that catered primarily to the Service Oriented Industries. There I worked as a House Office Boy/Messenger' for a weekly wage of $11.25 cents per week. (8 hours per day). I started in June-1963 to January 1975. I became a victim of Structural Re-organization, which the company claimed to be necessary, as result of rising overheads and declining demand for it's services locally and abroad.


Pollard's Govt. Aided Self-help Housing Group:
"Meadow Brook Gardens."

This was a period in my life that today is still very painful to talk about, much less write about. But it must be written, and it can only be written by me, for I am the only survivor of that experience capable of explaining it, because I was personally involved throughout the entire project!

Sometime in the 1960's my mother who was a member of a group of individuals that wanted to own their own home, was eventually given the opportunity to realize it from the then PNC government headed by Prime Minister L.F.S.Burhnam. This Housing Project was one of several that was implemented by the government, to aid poor people in attaining homes with State assistance. This concept was called the 'self-help' or co-operative approach for building homes. Several groups were called in, lands were identified for each group to build houses on, accompanied by a government Supervisor/organizer for official guidance and supervision of building materials.

We were called 'Self-helpers' and toiled days and nights for over two years in the building process. The work was dreadfully hard for me as a child. My Mom fooled the authorities about my age (because minors) were not allowed to help in the building of these homes. I supposed several members of our group knew that I was under-age, but no one snitched. We were all poor people, and desperate to have a home to call our own. In the rainy days and nights that followed, fighting the mosquitoes, gnats, and coping with the flooded lands that we were given to build on, we toiled relentlessly until completion.

The going was very rough for the women especially among us. The men often made them feel in-adequate by saying they were not pulling their weight, and the men had the BRUNT of the work to shoulder. The supervisor in his capacity as overseer, then would try to pacify these contentions as he sees fit, by encouraging UNITY and camaraderie among us. This helped greatly to alleviate many quarrels from getting out of hand, or even physical.

Our homes were eventually completed in 1978, the keys handed to each resident at a Total Cost then of $3 to 4,000.00 dollars per Unit. Payable in monthly installments of $25.00 dollars to The Ministry Of Housing, (Housing Dept). We moved in, all five of us!

My Mom (Enid, me, Valerie, Eulyn & Eileen),with the exception of my eldest sister Patricia, who was by then already married & living with her husband in Kitty Village, Newtown Georgetown. My mom became ill some time afterwards from a heart condition & subsequently died.

The burden of paying the monthly/rental payments fell upon me now. Before my mother died though, she never really liked being there. She complained that it was too far for her to get to, and it encroached upon her ability to continue gambling at the local 'horse-race betting shop. So shortly after moving in, she deliberately stayed away at her friend's home (as she referred), to be able to get personal help with her illness. Incidentally, this friend of hers 'never gave us a dime' to assist me or anyone of us with the burial of my mother, (her so-called friend)!

Some Facts About My Mother:

As far as I can recall, my mother never worked with anyone in her adult life, except for one time. She was offered a position in a Take Out Ice Cream Shop that was about to open. She was able to obtain this position from the owner, whom she knew. However, the job description was either never told to her, or she lied about it to us, (her children). However, after two weeks on the job, she left it saying that the supervisor wanted her to mop the floors, and that was not what she was expecting to do. And that was that!

The first time my mom was offered a job, and she left it because (in her own words), she was not prepared to do floors. My mom preferred to visit the Betting Shop (which she did on a daily basis), to bet on the horses. This was an obsession or addiction with her. She never won anything in the thousands though. At least as far as I know. But she was always hoping to 'Win Big' sometime in the future, that was always illusive.

My Employment History:

I worked at several jobs subsequently, for example, The Ministry Of Information & Culture, The General Post Office, J.P.Santos (a private business enterprise), The Guyana National Service, and finally The National Insurance Scheme from 1977 to 1989. During my years of employment I tried to gain as much knowledge as was available to me. I did a one year stint at The University Of Guyana (Soc. 100) Sociology and Political Philosophy.

I attended several training courses sponsored by The Guyana T.U.C. (Trades Union Council), because I was also an ardent representative of workers rights, and even made Shop Steward, rising to the level of Branch Secretary of The Amalgamated Transport & General Worker's Union, (A.T.&.G.W.U.), at the NIS Branch. I left Guyana on April-30-1989 to attend A Leadership Training Course at The George Meany Training Center, in Silver Spring, Maryland. Virginia. This was intended to be for the month of May-1989. But at the conclusion of this exercise, I remained here in America!


My Travel Visa:

The travel visa that I was issued with from the American Embassy in Barbados, in-transit to the U.S.A. allowed me to stay in America for only 'one month There was no work permit or extension allowed at completion, but a proviso that I should return to Guyana & serve my country or Trade Union for at least three years, before I can re-apply for a return visa to America to reside (if I so wish). Therefore, after over staying, or violating my visa conditions, I automatically became illegal or (an un-documented resident).

After which I sought legal advice and representation in 1994, and is still awaiting The Federal Government's approval for legal residence/Green Card Status! This process may take years to unfold, because America's foreign policies differ from country to country in relation to emigration quotas.

Presently, under the National Security/Terrorist Act of 2002, it has become much more difficult to attain this status. With the new regulations of checks and counter-checks, for targeted countries identified as Terrorist Havens, these regulations are being enforced, sometimes with impunity.

Coming To New York:

Growing up in Guyana, we are led to believe by most of our relatives abroad, that they would help us upon arrival in America or anywhere else for that matter. We are led to believe that we could count on them to assist family in times of dire need, because we are family, and family is supposed to help each other out at these times. Well, that's a fallacy for many of us, because my personal experience contradicts this view.

I left Guyana after suffering emotionally, psychologically and mentally from the lack of socio-economic opportunities available to most Guyanese. Living in a depressing and mis-managed economy, coupled with political strife, and petty political squabbles indulged by our political leaders is the reality of life back home. One would expect that relatives who escaped this harsh reality would extend themselves to those left behind, whose ability to escape a similar fate is questionable, but obviously this is not the experience of most of us who encounter our relatives upon arrival in the land of opportunity.

I sought help in a form of accommodation from an acquaintance who was living on Long Island at the time. I moved in with my acquaintances shortly thereafter, and stayed for over two years. Eventually my friend complained that the burden of supporting me was becoming too much for her to bear and indicated that I should seek alternative accommodation. This situation was hinged upon the fact that I was encouraged to go 'shop lifting' with her relatives, and when I voiced objection, I was spurned, rebuked, insulted, and threatened with eviction from their home. It is important to note that I resided under what one might call very oppressive condition.

A few of the house rules included the fact that I was not allowed to return after midnight, as well as the fact that I was not allowed to receive visitors or friends. Albeit, I was un-documented, (illegal) in this country, with no job or prospects, so how could my fate be different given my circumstances? It is really amazing that the human conditions one can live through, void of options! Realizing that I was totally alone in this situation, desperate and homeless with no place to turn, I mustered all the internal strength and resolve that was necessary, and told myself that it is now 'do or die.'

I had no intention of returning home to Guyana anytime soon. Primarily because, I would need another visa, and I lack the financial means it would require to return. I refused to allow myself to even remotely consider the possibility of wasting this opportunity for residing in America. I was faced with the harsh reality of survival at any cost, so I took action. I was offered false documents from underground (illegal) sources for a considerable amount of American dollars. With this new identity I was able to temporarily seek employment, but was always fearful of being caught at anytime by the authorities. This cat and mouse game continued for some time.

Being the product of a family that were law abiding people, who were respectful of the law and authorities, I harbored a great deal of guilt, shame and fear about getting caught at anytime. Reality be told, this perception of fear was merely a figment of my imagination, as no one ever approached me about my status!

Moving To New York City:

I moved to Manhattan-New York City in 1994, and sought advice from G.M.H.C. (Gay Men's Health Center), about Legal representation for my resident status. They agreed to be my Legal Advocate for the purposes of Immigration matters. And refer Clients who need Housing to agencies that deal with providing Housing for people in my situation in New York City's five boroughs.

After some disappointments in my search for several weeks, I was finally able to get a Studio Facility with the Bailey House Inc., housing facility titled Bailey-Holt House, situated in Manhattan-New York City. I moved into this single Apartment/Studio on October-30-1995. My rent was paid by The City of New York-Social Services Dept., and I get Public Assistance to help with my personal needs/affects. And is still residing therein.

It was furnished with the basics, like a Refrigerator, a Television with Cable, a Single Bed, a Telephone (which I have to turn on and pay for the services), and a couple of chairs and a coffee table. This housing facility has 45 Single Rooms/Studios, that are situated on four floors. We have the privilege of coming and going freely. Internal security systems for residents, post box facilities, washers and dryers in the basement for residents, that can be accessed anytime for FREE. And visitation of guests any day or night of the week, with three overnight stays per week for any guest.

The resident population varies in Ethnicity and personal needs. And our rents are calculated at 30% of our net income per month. This is also A City Subsidized Housing facility.

The Tribulations Of The Un-documented:

Being an un-documented person in America today could be a nightmare for anyone. The present Patriot Act. of 2002 gives The Immigration & Naturalization Department lots of power to arrest, detain and deport any un-documented foreigner without access to an attorney. They can be held indefinitely for long periods of time in 'A Detention Center' without access to an attorney, because under this law they have 'No Legal Rights.'

If you test positive for HIV, the only medical help available to you is The Emergency Medical Unit at a Public Hospital. No prescription drugs are covered, or doctor's fees. Families invariably will not be inclined to keep you in their homes for fear that when you eventually become incapacitated, the bills will have to be paid by them. this is a serious matter as you the unfortunate individual find yourself in a position where you cannot seek employment because you are illegal.

Therefore, you are unable to contribute to or provide for your up-keep. My Caribbean/Central and South American brothers and sisters are being infected with HIV/AIDS disease at a colossal rate, primarily through ignorance, (lack of knowledge), cultural, language barriers, social and religious stigma, as well as fear of accessing preventive services and counseling. This is the reality of life in America today for any illegal individual.

I have sworn to voluntarily contribute my experiences and abilities, in helping to advocate for and on behalf of people living with HIV/AIDS and their families. This I started doing since 1997 in New York City, and the outer boroughs. This activity involves lobby visits to Legislators, Congressmen/women in the NY State & US Senate. It is my belief that we all have a role to play in the process of making sure that there is equity among the laws, regulations and policies that impacts the lives of all peoples.

It is important to state that there are thousands of Guyanese living in America that are legal residents, but for some reason are not inclined to become citizens. They are missing out on all benefits that citizens and naturalized aliens are entitled to. Their status renders them incapable of assisting all Caribbean People Of Color, from acquiring the political representation at the Polls, because without citizenship you cannot vote.

This situation is chronic among Caribbean and African nationals alike. They come to America, live for years, accumulate property, but seem satisfied with this precarious situation. That is why we do not have the political 'CLOUT' that is necessary to make things happen for our populations.

Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator-Advocate & Blogger.

My Guyana National Service Experience!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User_talk:Derryckgriffith

September 12-2009:

With PRIDE & Some REGRET I Remember!

The Guyana National Service Para-military institution was an off shoot of the former Guyana Youth Corps. The Youth Corps was intended (if my memory serves me correctly), to encourage young people to cultivate, develop, and settle in the hinterlands of Guyana, thereby allowing for the development and migration inward, from our coastal belt.

This institution had it's flaws from the inception. Politics, mis-management, and other internal troubles hindered it's development in any meaningful way. The National Service Institution was intended to do the same things, but with a military twist to it. Unemployed Youth from 16 to 21 were primarily targeted for recruitment, and encouraged via the media, and political press, to join. They were told of the socio-economic and educational benefits to be derived therefrom. And the opportunities that will be provided after serving three years as pioneers. It was to be voluntary at first, and if deemed necessary, legislation would be enacted to make it mandatory.

Then in November 1973, Mr. Burnham, as leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC), at his party’s congress at Queen’s College, announced that National Service would include, as well, a voluntary young brigade embracing primary school children between the ages of 8 and 14. A second category, he announced would include a national Cadet Corps of trainees from 14 to 18 and a young workers corps for young people leaving primary school.

A further category would include a National Pioneer Corps for school leavers at secondary school level seeking employment and for the unemployed. He re-iterated that national service would be compulsory for prospective entrants to the University of Guyana, and that civil servants would have to go through a period of National Service in order to retain their jobs. "In time," he told the PNC Congress, "there would be no question of obtaining employment in Guyana without having first gone through National Service training."

This idea was not a very popular one with the masses. Opposing views here and there about the perceived ills that may result, when large numbers of young girls and boys, occupying the same spaces far away from their families, and proper supervision. But these concerns did not deter the political administration at the time, from going ahead with plans and implementation.

The GNS ( this abrev will be used hereafter), started some time in the 1970's, with three major locations. Kimbia, Papaya & Tumatumari. These were located in the hinterlands. The Kimbia location dealt primarily with basic para-military training for the pioneers (as these youths were called), cotton planting and harvesting. Black eye peas, and other cash crops, were grown to feed the pioneers and staff on that location, and some sent to other locations as well.

Norman McLean the Director General of GNS was a person with a mega ego. Whenever he was around, he made sure that his presence was felt. He always spoke as though he was giving instructions on a 'Drill Square In fact, he barked or shouted to all those under his rank. No one was spared from his arrogance.

Yes, that was Norman McLean for you!

Personally, I never liked him. He behaved as though he was a 'prima donna,' very abrasive, and treated his subordinates with impunity! And I guess he may have had reason to believe that, because he was taken from The Guyana Police Force, as an Asst.. Commissioner, and Senior Superintendent Of Police, and promoted above move eligible men to the rank of GNS Director General. A position that was equal to the Commissioner Of Police, and Commander Of The Guyana Defense Force! He was indeed a favorite of the late President L.F.S. Burhnam.

Papaya was the location that dealt primarily with military training skills, political education, orientation, etc. Tumatumari as well did some of the above and much more. I cannot say precisely, what was obtained at Tumatumari, because I only did a short stint for three months at Kimbia, as mandatory orientation. At the completion, I was sent to The GNS-Supply Store in Georgetown, to continue serving after leaving Kimbia.

I was involved in the building of The GNS Sports Complex. As a matter of fact, most Georgetown based personnel were expected to do some work there when ordered to do so. I was also ordered to 'cut sugar cane' on the Sugar estates on the East Coast of Demerara, when the cane cutters were on strike. The political leadership, under the late Forbes Burhnam ensured, that we did the cutting of the sugar cane, which was ripe and ready for cutting. Disregarding the official strike by workers there!

Training to use firearms was mandatory on all GNS locations. I did not have this privilege though. I guess because I was a staff member on orientation at Kimbia. Several pioneer veterans for different reasons were killed, either by careless use of the weapons, accidents, or just indiscipline. I was also ordered to go on 'Funeral detail' several times. I went with pride during these funerals, because I knew of the hardships, difficulties, and even environmental dangers, which most of these youths had to endure. I eventually left the GNS in 1975, after some re-structuring was being done.

My view was, that they were experiencing some Managerial re-shuffling, and Top-management overhauling. I took this opportunity to get out as fast as I could, after serving two & one half years. But I shall always remember my sojourn there, and the hardships, and military discipline, which we were subjected to, and the lofty ideals that was originally conceived.

It was a pity the implementation went so badly!

--------------------------

RELATED INFORMATION:

Director General & Asst.. Commissioner Of Police:
Norman Mc Lean:


Asst.. Director General-Administration:
Charwin Burhnam:

Capt. Igris Burhnam.
GNS Supply Store Co-ordinator:

LOCATIONS:

1.Kimbia:- The Agricultural Camp, eg Cotton Gin:
2.Tumatumari:- The military training camp:
3.Papaya:- Military & other matters:
4.New River:- Border patrol/security, etc:

GNS River Vessel:- 'The Jaimito,'

ACHIEVEMENTS:
* GNS Sports Complex was built primarily by servicemen/women's labor:

* Sugar Cane detail/cutters on the sugar estates, during the months of strike action by cane cutters.

* Planted and harvested black-eye peas & cotton for local consumption & export trade at Kimbia.

* The Great March by the pioneer youths, led by Norman Mc Lean-Director General.

Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator-Advocate & Blogger.
Manhattan. New York City.
http://www.google.com/profiles/DerryckGriffith
http://www.facebook.com/derryck.s.griffith
http://mimbari.livejournal.com/
http://friendfeed.com/DerryckSGriffith
http://twitter.com/MIMBARI
http://www.linkedin.com/in/derryckgriffith

To Be Continued~

The Neighborhood Where I Was Born & Grew Up!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User_talk:Derryckgriffith

September 12-2009.

The Neighborhood Where I Was Born & Grew Up!


I was born on March-05-1950, in the neighborhood of Charlestown-Georgetown, British Guiana. This neighborhood is typical of most neighborhoods at that period in the City of Georgetown. It consisted of a multi-ethnic array of residents, many of whom could trace their ancestral lineage from that same neighborhood. I have also learned in time, that most residents who lived there for long periods, would not move out, unless it was vitally necessary to do so. Because the rents remained very stable over very long periods.

Most of the friendships that I made attended my school from kindergarten to elementary levels, up to the fifth standard. The school that I attended from kindergarten to secondary level, was in the same neighborhood, and occupied the same real estate or property. So it was not necessary for me to leave one school, to attend another one at another location, like so many of today's beginners.

I could recall my very first teacher in kindergarten too. Her name Miss Fraser. She was a very fat and short in stature, with a booming and high pitched voice. She also had her children attend the Carmel R C. School also. It was one of the Roman Catholic schools that was targeted by residents in and around Charlestown, Albouystown, and Werk-En-Rust neighborhoods.

So if you grew up in any one of those neighborhoods, chances are that you would attend the Carmel RC School too. There was also St. Philip's School, (an Anglican School), and the Dolphin Government School. These were the primary levels. Then there was the Central High School ( a private school), Chatham High School, St. Stanislaus High School, (A Catholic High School), and the Muslim Educational Trust School. All of these schools competed for pupils, and overtime, each one developed a reputation for academic proficiency, respectability, and most desired, in that neighborhood.

I never got beyond the sixth standard level. I was barely able to study some O Level type courses at the GEC level. Because circumstances at my home caused me to leave school at the fifth standard, in search of employment. This I did reluctantly, but I had to make a choice at that time between eating at home on a regular basis, or not eating on a regular basis, if I continued in school. Reasons are that my mother was the only provider economically at home. There was no male or father figure that she could depend on for financial assistance. So the burden of supporting and providing for five children was solely on my mother's abilities and endurance.

So the first job that I was able to acquire, was at The Guiana Lithographic Co., Ltd, as an Office Boy/Messenger. At a living wage of eleven dollars and twenty-six cents per week ($11.26 per week). The working hours were from 8.00am-4.00pm, from Monday to Saturday. Saturday's were from 8.00am to 12.00 Noon. I worked there for five years, before I was eventually retrenched or (given the boot), after some organizational restructuring was done.

Thereafter, I sought other forms of employment, and worked at several jobs in Government, the Private Sector, The Guyana National Service, and finally Guyana National Insurance Organization for ten years. I emigrated to the USA in 1989, after serving at NIS for over ten years. After ensuring that I accumulated the prescribed amount of contributions, that would make me eligible for a pension at sixty years of age. And that was 750, (or Seven Hundred & Fifty Contributions), as per NIS regulations.

Pollard's Govt. Aided Self-help Housing Group:
"Meadow Brook Gardens."

This was a period in my life that today is still very painful to talk about, much less write about. But it must be written, and it can only be written by me, for I am the only survivor of that experience capable of explaining it, because I was personally involved throughout the entire project!

Sometime in the 1960's my mother who was a member of a group of individuals that wanted to own their own home, was eventually given the opportunity to realize it from the then PNC government headed by Prime Minister L.F.S.Burhnam. This Housing Project was one of several that was implemented by the government, to aid poor people in attaining homes with State assistance. This concept was called the 'self-help' or co-operative approach for building homes. Several groups were called in, lands were identified for each group to build houses on, accompanied by a government Supervisor/organizer for official guidance & supervision of building materials.

We were called 'Self-helpers' & toiled days & nights for over two years in the building process. The work was dreadfully hard for me as a child. My Mom had to fool the authorities about my age (because minors) were not allowed to help in the building of these homes. I suppose several members of our group knew that I was under-age, but no one 'snitched.' We were all poor people, and desperate to have a home to call our own! In the rainy days & nights that followed, fighting the mosquitoes & gnats and coping with the flooded lands that we were given to build on, we toiled relentlessly until it's completion.

The going was very rough for the women especially among us. The men often made them feel in-adequate by saying they were not pulling their weight, and the men had the BRUNT of the work to shoulder. The supervisor in his capacity as overseer, then would try to pacify these contentions as he sees fit, by encouraging UNITY and camaraderie among us. This helped greatly to alleviate many quarrels from getting out of hand or physical.

Our homes were eventually completed in 1978, the keys handed to each resident at a Total Cost then of $3 to 4,000.00 dollars per Unit. Payable in monthly installments of $25.00 dollars to The Ministry Of Housing, (Housing Dept). We moved in, all five of us.

My Mom (Enid, me, Valerie, Eulyn & Eileen),with the exception of my eldest sister Patricia, who was by then already married & living with her husband in Kitty Village, Newtown Georgetown. My mom became ill some time afterwards from a heart condition & subsequently died.

The burden of paying the monthly/rental payments fell upon me now. Before my mother died though, she never really liked being there. She complained that it was too far for her to get to, and it encroached upon her ability to continue puntering-gambling at the local 'horse-race betting shop. So shortly after moving in, she deliberately stayed away at her friend's home (as she referred), to be able to get personal help with her illness. Incidentally, this friend of hers "never gave us a dime" to assist me or anyone of us with the burial of my mother, (her so-called friend)!

Some Facts About My Mother:

As far as I can recall, my mother never worked with anyone in her adult life, except for one time. She was offered a position in a Take Out Ice Cream Shop that was about to open. She was able to obtain this position from the owner, whom she knew. However, the job description was either never told to her, or she lied about it to us, (her children). However, after two weeks on the job, she left it saying that the supervisor wanted her to mop the floors, and that was not what she was expecting to do. And that was that!

The first time my mom was offered a job, and she left it because (in her own words), she was not prepared to do floors. My mom preferred to visit the Betting Shop (which she did on a daily basis), to bet on the horses. This was an obsession or addiction with her. She never won anything in the thousands though. At least as far as I know. But she was always hoping to 'Win Big' sometime in the future, that was always illusive.

Thus ends the 'SAGA' of my Formative Years in Guyana!

Derryck S. Griffith.
Guyanese.

All A We A Wan Family!

September 12-2009:


The Caribbean Community & Guyana:

All A We A Wan Family!


OUR RESOLVE:


Let it be known that from this day forward, we pledge to do and maintain the following:

* We will ensure that all governments within the Caribbean & Guyana strive to create a climate of Civil Rights for all it's citizens.

* Regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, sexual preferences, religious preferences, and political preferences.

* We will ensure that all our governments strive to enact legislation to protect our people from willful murder, discrimination, and castigation, because of their gender, sexual orientation, sexual preferences, political preferences, and religious preferences.

* We will strive to ensure that no Caribbean and Guyana native son or daughter is dis-respected by anyone, because she or he is not from any particular country in this region.

* We will strive to re-create the image once enjoyed and believed, that all Caribbean countries, and Guyana are ONE FAMILY.

* W e will strive to re-create the UNITY we once enjoyed, fostered, and admired in this region, once more.


This is our Resolve, Belief, and Charge for the growth and development of all our nations within the Caribbean hemisphere & Guyana.


Derryck S. Griffith.
Guyanese.

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Guyana's First Executive President Dies At Age 77!

September 09-2009:

Guyana's First Executive President Dies At Age 77!

I can recall in Guyana, when the National Constitution was being re-written to cater to the then Prime Minister L.F.S. Burhnam's desire and future ascendency to the presidency. He had to find someone to act as an Interim President, until his turn came around. So Justice Arthur Chung agreed to take this position. I don't know if Arthur "was made an offer he couldn't refuse." But he took it anyway.

And when his time ended, and national elections for both positions of Prime Minister & President of Guyana. L.F.S. Burhnam was now ready for 'his close up.'

Comrade Arthur Chung (was the preferred prefix to his position), was also an enigma, in the sense that one could not imagine Guyana, a country of predominantly people of Indian and African descent, would have an Indigenous Chinese for it's president. So it was a subject for great amusement among the commons.


I never knew much about Arthur Chung's services while he was on the bench. But he probably did something to impress Forbes Burhnam, to make him that offer.


May his soul go, where all souls go after leaving the physical body in PEACE.

Derryck S. Griffith.
NYC.

Homelessness And Poverty MUST Be Eradicated!

September 03-2009:

Homelessness And Poverty MUST Be Eradicated!

* Homelessness is a societal responsibility to be remedied.

* Homelessness is caused by several factors, these being primarily the following.

* Abject Poverty.

* Inability to hold a regular job or employment, thus causing the tenant to err in his/her rental payments.

* Lengthy un-employment intervals, thus causing the tenant to err in his/her rental payments.

* Personal inability to maintain a sensible budget or budgetary practices.

* Drug, or other substance abuse or addictions.

* Mental or psychological issues, that impact a person's ability to reason, plan, maintain a healthy home or surrounding, and complying with his/her rental responsibilities.

These are some of the major issues impacting homeless people generally.

What Is The Responsibility Of The State In This Matter?

It is the prime responsibility of the state, to ensure that the citizenry is adequately housed, in a healthy environment, with proper running water and sewerage disposal.

It is also the state's responsibility to ensure that Landlords/Home Owners who rent their property, charge fees for rent in accordance with the market or regional market place values.

And that legislation be put in place to protect the consumer/renter from gross exploitation by land Lords/Home Owners, who use their properties to earn money.

Derryck S. Griffith.
A Guyanese In New York City.
http://www.linkedin.com/in/derryckgriffith

Governance With Parity & Inclusion In Guyana!

September 03-2009:

Governance With Parity & Inclusion In Guyana!

The only way forward for all Guyanese and their political leadership, is to ensure that those who want to represent all of the people, co-op a policy or mandate, that espouses the following:

* A National Political Party that incorporates all Ethnic group's involvement, and encouragement in politics, and national policy.

* A Political Leadership that espouses Parity and Inclusion of ALL Ethnic groups and Representatives, regardless of religious, regional identity, or associations.

* A Political Leadership that does not incorporate elements that were complicit with criminal activities ( known or legally sanctioned) in the past, and did not knowingly encourage separation, ethnic prejudice, or preferences, or ethnic profiling for discriminatory reasons.

* A Political Leadership that has the commonweal's approval via a transparency, free and fair general elections, with the necessary access to
All Media time slots, with Equal Footage, and with some State Funding or assistance towards helping candidates who need it, for the associated expenses that canvassing entails.

* And the assurance that The National Constitution would be respected, not be altered or amended to allow any President or Prime Minister, to extend his/her term in official office.

These are just some of the assurances and policies that any national political party and candidates MUST respect, Encourage, and Adhere to, in order for this nation to move forward.

Derryck S. Griffith.

Guyanese in New York City.