NINTH PARLIAMENT OF GUYANA – FIRST SESSION (2006-2007)  

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY  

NOTICE PAPER NO. 126

 

Question No. (Q 98 Opp 97)  

Member Asking: Mr. Anthony Vieira, M.P.

 

Minister Answering: The Minister of Agriculture,

Robert M. Persaud, MBA, MP

 

QUESTIONS

SUGAR PRODUCTION 2000-2006

• Could the Honourable Minister of Agriculture tell us how many tons of sugar production was lost in years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006, as a result of the kiln to mill period of 48 hours not being met with any consistency by the estates?

• Could the Honourable Minister also inform this Honourable House why the estates are unable to meet this important commitment to grind the canes on time?

 

ANSWER

(i) I cannot give absolute tonnages for sugar that was lost as a result of the extension of time for cane to get to the factory to be crushed following burning. I have given an estimate based on the following assumptions:

1. 0% loss in sucrose for cane crushed under 48 hours old
2. 2% loss in sucrose for cane that is 49-72 hours old
3. 5% loss in sucrose for cane that is 73 hours plus old
4. The average Po1% cane is 10%

The estimated loss of sucrose from the stale canes is as follows:

		Estimate Only
Year	Burn to grind Hours	Subtotal tonnes	Total tonnes
2000	0-48	-
	49-72	1,072
	73+	1,692	2,763
2001	0-48	-
	49-72	1,382
	73+	2,721	4,102
2002	0-48	-
	49-72	1,796
	73+	4,788	6,584
2003	0-48	-
	49-72	1,300
	73+	2,581	3,881
2004	0-48	-
	49-72	1,558
	73+	3,095	4,653
2005	0-48	-
	49-72	1,044
	73+	2,792	3,836
2006	0-48	-
	49-72	1,244
	73+	2,497	3,741

 

(ii)The main reasons for stale canes are listed below in the order of priority:

• Strikes
• Labour turnout
• Inclement weather causing burning of canes for more than 24 hours supply
• Factory breakdown

 

23-04-07

RMP