Guyana Chronicle News 30-09-2023.pdf

Gov’t rejects APNU+AFC’s ‘unpatriotic attempt’ to mislead on international stage

THE deliberate smear campaign by the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) has been rejected and condemned by the Government of Guyana.

Labelling the unfounded claims as “unpatriotic”, the government has called out the Opposition, in a statement, for attempting to mislead both the international and local realms.

The statement also set the record straight, and pointed out the duplicitous nature of the petition.

The following is the full text of a release from the Office of the Prime Minister on the matter:

“The Government categorically rejects the claims made in the petition, dated September 24, 2023, in support of the Washington Diaspora Conference, as an unpatriotic attempt by the Opposition APNU+AFC to undermine the Government’s commitment to the betterment of Guyana. “It is evident that the document in question is engineered by the Opposition APNU+AFC, and is designed to present a one-sided perspective that does not accurately represent the actions and policies of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government of Guyana.

While the Government recognises the importance of addressing the concerns and grievances of any group of citizens, it is disheartening to witness the deliberate APNU+AFC-led smear campaign aimed at poisoning the well of public discourse both

locally and internationally. This approach does a disservice to the democratic principles that Guyana upholds, and the tireless efforts of the Government to build a united Guyana under its ‘One Guyana’ policy, which actively promotes inclusion, engagement, and consultation at all levels of our society.

“The Government views this petition, orchestrated by the APNU+AFC, as regressive, mischievous, and unpatriotic. It appears to be a thinly-veiled attempt to undermine the universally unifying work that successive PPP/C Administrations have undertaken, and which President Mohamed Irfaan Ali has been vigorously advancing since his assumption of office in 2020, to transform the socio-economic construct of Guyana, and foster an environment where every creed and race has an equal place.

“The Government’s transformative agenda underpinned by the Ruling Party’s campaign Manifesto is specifically targetted to universal citizens empowerment throughout the length and breadth of the country.

LET US SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT

“Government Engagement with Local Democratic Institutions:

Contrary to the petition’s claims, the Government has consistently reached out to local democratic institutions representing people of African descent. The “One Guyana” policy stands as a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and harmony

among all ethnic groups in Guyana. It is worth noting that invitations for dialogue and cooperation have been extended to the Opposition on numerous occasions, invitations which they have chosen to decline.

DECADE FOR PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT

“While the petition asserts that the Government has not submitted any report to the UN regarding progress on actions to ensure African Guyanese are on equal footing with all other ethnic groups during the UN’s Decade for People of African Descent, it is important to highlight the concrete steps taken by the Government in this regard. These steps include unprecedented levels of investment in education, including thousands of local and international scholarships from certificate to doctoral levels, re-education pathways for early school-leavers and those who missed the opportunity; technical and vocational training and upskilling certification for youths across all ten administrative regions; economic development and empowerment initiatives including job creation, private sector investment enablement and growth incentives, and

most significant constitutional, governmental and civil society offices in the land. These include Parliamentary, Judicial and Ministerial portfolios.

INTERNATIONAL CAMPAIGN MISREPRESENTATION

small business loans and grants with a strong emphasis on women’s empowerment.

“The Government’s social security and justice reforms aimed at creating a more equitable society and improved livelihoods for all Guyanese have provided an annual US$200 grant for every school-going child, placed thousands more into their own homes through reduced costs, incentives and direct building assistance; while restorative justice and community rebuilding and advancement programmes have set a course for universal impact for the citizenry including construction of sports and recreational facilities in all townships.

“It is important to note that in August 2023, more than thirty-three (33) organizations representing People of African Descent received government grants for various cultural activities and events, and that is in addition to the annual Emancipation grants for African-related observances.

“The PPP/C Government wishes to underscore that it is a representative administration as People of African Descent are holders of some of the highest and

“The Government is also proud of its wide-ranging support among the African Guyanese community that led to its victory at the last General Elections and has since been managing the affairs of the country inclusively for the benefit of all Guyanese, irrespective of race, political affiliation, and economic status.

REPRESENTATION OF AFRICAN GUYANESE

“Claims that African Guyanese face hostility and repression when asserting their state are unequivocally false. Guyana’s political landscape is diverse, with multiple parties and organisations representing various interests, including those of African Guyanese. These organisations have been welcomed to engage in the Government’s consultative processes to address community concerns with ample mechanisms provided for the facilitation of such engagements, notwithstanding the approach of regular direct grassroots engagement of the citizenry by the President and his Cabinet ministers.

“The Government’s international stance has been consistent with its national disposition that is evidence-based, constitutionally sound and aligned to global best practices for an equitable governance framework that caters to achieving universal citizens empowerment, in keeping with all international charters to which Guyana is subscribed, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. All claims otherwise are considered malicious and wicked and can be easily disproved.

“We have made efforts to engage with the global community and express our commitment to fostering unity and equality among all Guyanese despite an antithetical agenda from the political opposition.

“The Government wishes to reiterate its unwavering commitment to its “One Guyana” policy, which caters to all Guyanese and seeks to promote inclusivity, unity, and equal opportunities for every citizen, regardless of their ethnic background.

“We remain open to constructive dialogue and cooperation with all stakeholders to continue building a prosperous and harmonious Guyana.”

- criticises Opposition-led smear campaign as regressive and mischievous - sets record straight on Opposition’s petition

Cause of Princess Hotel fire still unknown

INVESTIGATORS from the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and the Guyana Police Force are yet to determine the cause of a fire which broke out at the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino at Providence, East Bank Demerara last Sunday.

This was confirmed by the Fire Chief, Gregory Wickham, who said, in an interview with Guyana Chronicle on Friday, that the investigation is ongoing.

“It is not available as yet. We thought that we would have been able to complete the investigation by Wednesday (September 27), but we weren’t able to do so,” he told this newspaper.

The Fire Chief pointed out that fire investigators are still going through their reports, after which the cause of the fire should be known.

A fire investigation can take a long time due to safety concerns, the complex nature of fires, the meticulous gathering and analysis of physical evidence, collaboration with experts, legal processes, and various administrative factors that contribute to a thorough and accurate investigation.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that, on Sunday, September 23, fire broke out on the fourth floor in room 431 of the six-storey building, which houses 194 rooms and a casino.

According to a statement from the GFS, at the time of the fire, the hotel had 293 adults and four children registered as guests, most of whom were in Guyana for the Cricket Carnival and Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches.

“Smoke was observed emanating from the eastern side of the building which triggered the fire alarm and sprinkler systems… The

Fire Department was called and informed of the fire at 22:47hrs.,” the statement said.

Eccles, Diamond, Central, and West Ruimveldt Fire Stations dispatched water tenders, water carriers, a hydraulic platform (HP), three ambulances, and personnel to the scene.

The first truck arrived at 22:54hrs, and, under the command of Fire Chief

Gregory Wickham, 28 firefighting personnel successfully evacuated all hotel guests and promptly contained the blaze.

Emergency Medical Technicians transported one guest to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment for

(433 and 435). Firefighters employed two lines working from water carrier #14, water tender #116, HP #2, and an open-water source to extinguish the fire.

The management of the hotel, in a statement, had said that it was working with the authorities to or-

smoke inhalation, and no serious injuries or casualties were reported.

Firefighting operations concluded at 03:10hrs on Sunday, with significant damage in the room of origin and adjacent rooms

ganise a plan to deal with issues that the hotel’s guests face at this time.

The Hotel is currently closed until further notice owing to the extensive damage caused by the fire.

Fire Chief (ag), Gregory Wickham

The hotel room in the aftermath of the fire

Region Three becomes new hub for entertainment, commerce

- as billion dollar mall opens at Leonora

By Naomi Parris

PAVING the way for further economic advancement in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), the West Central Mall was on Friday commissioned at Leonora.

After two years of development, the multi-billion dollar facility was opened to patrons by developer Heimraj Albert and Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

At the opening ceremony, Dr. Jagdeo stressed the importance of the government's support for private sector investments to advance community devel -

opment, employment, and overall growth.

“Investors have to make critical decisions and often they take a lot of risk and we believe that one of the things government should do to get investors to make these sorts of investments is try to minimize the risk that they face and you can only do that through a clear vision and policies that are friendly to investments,” the VP said.

The government, he stressed, has always been enthusiastic about creating economic policies that promote investments.

“Our economic philosophy will pick up from where we started in 1992

which was to transform the country with a clear vision; first of all to have a stable macro-economic environment. Secondly, to put in enabling infrastructure and thirdly, to reduce the burden on taxation and also to get rid of the massive debt that had cause almost two decades of lost growth,” the Vice President said.

The West Central mall has been under construction for roughly two and a half years, spans approximately 9,800 square feet, and stands three stories tall.

The mall’s developer, Heimraj Albert, noted the entity is one that was established in family and community values.

“The idea of a shopping mall was birthed with the blessing of God, family, friends and stakeholders,” the local businessman said. He further noted that the entity will satisfy a gap in the region for a social spot and entertainment.

“West Central project started approximately two and half years ago. After we bought the land during this time we thought of many ideas in which we can develop our region.”

Despite facing many challenges during the mall's construction, Albert remained determined to contribute to his home region.

“Region Three is close to my heart …The thought of leaving my country or my region never crossed

my mind. As such, my passion for business and the development of Region Three has always been my aim.”

Over 50 stores, 90 fast food restaurants, the largest indoor kids’ playground in the country, three ATMs, world-class cinemas, and fine dining are all part of the mall's diverse shopping experience.

A boardwalk is included to offer a space for customers to unwind.

It's also been labeled as a tourist attraction of global significance.

Tourism Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond, who also spoke at the opening ceremony, said the facility has raised the bar for tourism in the region.

Further praising the architecture and the services provided, Walrond noted that the mall has the potential to attract tourists, further expanding the regional sector.

“There is world class cinema, world class entertainment, fine dining so when our visitors come to Guyana it’s not just Georgetown that they are coming to, we are able to present the entire Guyana.”

She added: “There is an experience for everyone and every single part of the country that you go and that is significant.”

Several regional leaders, as well prominent members from the private sector, have lauded the opening of the facility.

Courts celebrates 30th anniversary in Guyana

COURTS Mega Store marked its 30th year in Guyana at its Main Street branch on Friday, with a celebration that honoured its staff, customers, and recognised its longest-serving employees and patrons.

Vincent Gordon, Sub-regional Managing Director of Guyana and the Dutch Caribbean, speaking at the event said that 30 years of doing business is no small achievement for any organisation, as throughout the years Courts has grown and expanded its retail footprint to bring some of the world’s best brands to Guyana.

“In September of 1993, some 30 years ago, we started basically just four branches, and around 200 staff and today we have 25 branches in total encompassing Courts, Courts Optical, Radioshack, Ashley, Lucky dollar and we are not done yet,” he said.

Currently, he said that they are awaiting the final approval to begin the construction of a commercial complex on the East Bank of Demerara that will house a 50,000 square foot mega store and they also have plans to open two new branches in two key towns before March 2024.

“The expansion of our footprint is only one aspect of our plans to contribute to the local economy another is the extension of our services

to introduce our B2B products through a new business brand, Courts Business Solutions, a new unit which reflects our interest in the undergirding the successes of small, medium and large businesses,” Gordon explained.

He noted that they have taken, very seriously, their mandate to innovate and constantly reimagine the shopping experience for customers.

“We are working to enhance your shopping experiences and we are deeply appreciative of your connection to our brand, which is proven by your improved or increased presence in our

various stores,” he related.

Courts also gave recognition to their longest serving staff members, Pamela Humprey, Karen Andrews, Roulston McDonald and Andrew Drayton.

For their Customer Ap-

preciation Award, Pauline Nedd, Rendforde Jospeh, Clint Duke, Godfrey Pitt and Claudette Bowen were each presented with $50,000.

As part of their Community Service Award, Courts handed over to the Ptolemy

Reid Rehabilitation Center, a 50 inch TCL television for their school. In the month of October, Courts will be working to furnish and introduce a Life Skills Training Room, to help students learn accountability, responsibility and routine tasks.

Another recipient of the Community Service Award is the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central.

In the month of October, they will be celebrating the day of the Girl on October 11. In partnership with Courts, the Rotary Club will work to deliver an Inaugural week of events that will culminate with a day of mentorship and training.

The total commitment by Courts is $430,000 to the organization and this

empowerment programme will focus on areas such as selfcare, wellness, emotional intelligence and more. The programme will cater to 30 girls between the ages 13 to 17 and will be held on October 14.

Additionally, the winner of the Operation Home Transformation launched during the Guyana Expo which attracted over 200 applicants, was Nazeema Khan, a mother of five, from Timehri.

There were two runner ups who received separate prizes, Mariah Michelle and Shownette Wilson. Wilson received a living room set which is expected to be delivered to her home free of charge.

From left: Vincent Gordon, Sub-regional Managing Director of Guyana and the Dutch Caribbean; Rendforde Jospeh, Pauline Nedd, Claudette Bowen; Winner of the Operation Home Transformation, Nazeema Khan; and others (Delano Williams photo)

Agriculture blossoms in Region Nine

IN a groundbreaking moment for the agricultural landscape of Guyana, the farmers of Kumu, nestled in the heart of Region Nine, have recently reaped their first bountiful harvest of rice.

This achievement not only marks a significant milestone for the local community, but also underscores the promising new prospects for agriculture in this region.

Behind this success story lies a broader vision – one fueled by strategic investments made by the Government of Guyana to transform the agricul-

ture sector and stimulate economic growth in Region Nine and beyond.

The verdant fields of Kumu are now teeming with potential, mirroring the bright future of Guyana’s agricultural sector as a whole.

This milestone, the first of many to come, underscores the region’s immense potential to contribute substantially to the nation’s food security and economic stability.

The Government of Guyana has demonstrated unwavering commitment to revitalising the agriculture sector, recog-

nising its pivotal role in driving national development.

Region Nine, with its fertile soil and untapped potential, has become a focal point of this agricultural renaissance. Investments have poured into the region to enhance infrastructure, technology, and skills development, laying the foundation for sustainable agricultural growth.

These advancements not only boost rice production but also open the door to diversifying crops and increasing overall agricultural output.

Furthermore, the Government of Guyana has taken significant steps to promote research and development in agriculture. Partnerships with agricultural experts and institutions have been formed to introduce innovative farming practices, crop varieties, and pest control measures that are tailored to the unique needs of the region.

This commitment to knowledge sharing ensures that farmers in Kumu and beyond have access to the latest agricultural technologies and best practices.

The positive impact

of these investments extends far beyond the fields. The burgeoning agriculture sector in Region Nine has created job opportunities, stimulated rural economies, and improved living standards for the local population.

As agricultural activities expand, so do associated industries such as food processing, transportation, and marketing, contributing to a more vibrant and diversified regional economy.

Moreover, the focus on sustainable agriculture practices and responsible land management aligns with the broader global

agenda of combating climate change and preserving biodiversity. The Government of Guyana’s emphasis on environmentally friendly farming techniques ensures that this agricultural transformation is not only economically rewarding but also environmentally responsible.

As the seeds of this agricultural renaissance continue to grow, we can anticipate that the entire nation will reap the benefits, sowing the seeds of a brighter, more sustainable future for Guyana.

Africa, CARICOM and Haiti - Where Black Lives Still Matter!

I’ve long held that after Grenada in 1983, the next US-led military intervention in the Caribbean would most likely be in Haiti – and I’ve been proven right.

Take the following September 22 Reuters news item from New York, headlined ‘US pledges new aid for Haiti, urges UN to authorize security mission’, by Humeyra Pamuk and Michelle Nichols.

It reads (in great part): ‘The United States on Friday (September 22) unveiled US $65 million more in help for Haiti’s police and urged the U.N.

Security Council to formally back the deployment of a multinational security mission to help the Caribbean country fight crippling gang violence.

‘Speaking at a meeting in New York to address the security situation in Haiti, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the mission, “led by Kenya”, could be deployed “within months.”

“We really have no time to lose,” Blinken said.

The article continues: ‘Haiti last year asked for help to combat violent gangs that have largely overrun the capital Portau-Prince.

‘The (UN Security) council could vote as soon as next week, diplomats said, on a US-drafted resolution supporting a multinational police deployment.

‘While not providing any troops, Blinken said the Biden administration will work with the U.S. Congress to provide $100 million to back the multinational mission with logistical and financial assistance.

‘This could include intelligence support, airlift, communications and medical support,’ he said.

‘The $65 million will aim to bolster the Haitian

police capacity to dismantle the gangs,’ Blinken added.

The article reported the U.S. was ‘also imposing new visa bans on former and current Haitian officials whom Blinken said were enabling the violence.’

It adds: ‘Washington supports Kenya’s vision

for a three-part security mission that includes helping Haitian police, ensuring security for static installations and thoroughfares and strengthening law enforcement in the long term,’ Blinken said.

‘Kenyan President William Ruto, told the UN General Assembly on September 21: ‘We must not

leave Haiti behind.’

The article continued, ‘Countries have been wary of supporting the unelected administration of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has said fair elections cannot be held with the current insecurity.’

It also noted that ‘Haiti has been without any

Guyana rejects Venezuela’s communique - affirms commitment to ICJ

GUYANA has firmly rejected the recent communique issued by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on September 27, 2023.

Guyana's stance is characterised by its unwavering commitment to the resolution process through the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The communique in question, issued by Venezuela, expressed its willingness to participate in a high-level meeting aimed at continuing negotiations concerning the longstanding border dispute, primarily governed by the 1966 Geneva Agreement. However, Guyana has expressed its bewilderment at this proposal, given the historical context of the dispute.

Below is a statement

by the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana:

The Cooperative Republic of Guyana rejects all that is said, implied and proposed by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in its Communique of 27 September 2023. It wishes particularly to re-iterate the statement of its Permanent Representative to the United Nations made on 26 September 2023by which it stands.

In relation to the final paragraph of its Communique in which the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela “ratifies its willingness to participate in a high-level meeting ….to continue the negotiations provided for in that legal instrument”presumably, the Geneva Agreement 1966 - the Government of Guy -

ana is confounded. It appears that Venezuela has forgotten that by 2018 it had utilised over two decades of ‘good offices’ to no effect, due largely to its own filibuster tactics, before the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, following on the efforts of his two predecessors, wrote to the Governments of both Venezuela and Guyana on 30 January 2018 as follows:

I have fulfilled the responsibility that has fallen on me within the framework set by my predecessor and, significant progress not having been made toward arriving at a full agreement for the solution of the controversy, I have chosen the International Court of Justice as the means that is now to be

used for its solution.

The Government of Venezuela hardly needs reminding that pursuant to the Secretary General’s decision, Guyana brought current proceedings before the Court on 29 March 2018, nor that the Court on two occasions has affirmed its jurisdiction in rejection of Venezuela’s efforts to frustrate the judicial proceedings. Venezuela must now proceed and face, as must Guyana, the Judgement of the Court. Instead, as Venezuela’s Communique makes clear, it wishes to “continue the negotiations” – avoiding a judgment of the world’s most authoritative Court. 2

The Government of Guyana will not facilitate this escape from a just and lawful settlement of the border dis-

pute under the Geneva Agreement 1966 - as it believes Venezuela sees its proposed ‘high-level meeting’ facilitating. It will not engage in any such avoidance of the just and peaceful settlement which the International Court of Justice is in the process of providing.

Furthermore, the Government of Guyana brings to the notice of the Government of Venezuela the ‘Statement by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on the Guyana-Venezuela Border Controversy’ issued on 22 September 2023 in the context of present exchanges which stated, inter alia:

CARICOM expresses the hope that Venezuela will engage fully in the process before the International Court of Justice,

which has determined that it has the jurisdiction in the case brought before it. The Court’s final decision will ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law.

Finally, in the overall context of the Communique of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the Cooperative Republic of Guyana reminds all involved that the CARICOM statement ended as follows:

The Caribbean Community reiterates its full and unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, including the right to peacefully develop the resources of its territory.

Africa, CARICOM and Haiti - Where...

FROM PAGE 6

elected representatives since January.

Henry told the General Assembly on September 22: ‘My interim government is determined to hold elections as soon as practically possible, adding that security in Haiti had deteriorated to a ‘critical point as ‘criminals feel that they are all powerful…’

Henry continued, ‘I am asking for help to allow Haitians to stay in their homes,’ and called ‘to bolster the national police of Haiti, so that it can truly respond to the challenges it faces’.

The unelected prime minister also called for the UN Security Council’s authorization for that help.’

The article said: ‘Haiti’s most powerful gang leader this week called for the armed overthrow

of Henry, urging Haitians to take to the streets against the unelected government.’

It quoted U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a report to the Security Council last month, as saying that ‘A robust use of force’ by a multinational police deployment and the ‘use of military assets, were ‘needed to restore law and order in Haiti and disarm gangs.’

The article ended noting: ‘A multinational police deployment would not be a U.N. mission.’

The report reveals enough to support my original position, which still stands today, that the US has successfully repeated its age-old divideand-rule argument of justification of an invasion by changing its name to a ‘Rescue Mission’.

Clearly, to all oldenough to remember, it’s all from the same-old, always-upgraded and never-discarded US Psychological Operations (PsyOps) playbook, the same guidelines being today as in the week between October 17 and the invasion on October 25.

Like back then, in the name of Rescuing Democracy and saving a defenseless population against armed killers needing to be urgently and violently-thwarted by use of overwhelming armed foreign force.

The accompanying propaganda blitz has painted the ‘armed gangs’ as assassins worthy of assassination in the name of ‘Protecting Democracy’, even though Haiti is everything but democratic, led by an unpopular and unelected prime minister,

with no elected government and no national institutions, to ensure any safe return to democracy after the killing is over and the bodies are counted.

Like in Grenada, Haiti’s chapter started-off with Kenya agreeing to deploy 1,000 troops to Haiti, supposedly under a UN ‘Peacekeeping Force’, but which last weekend metamorphosed into a US-backed, funded and armed ‘UN-led Multinational Force’.

With pre-election pressures topping his agenda and now wanting to have to explain beaths of Americans returning from Haiti in body bags, President Biden has done like in Ukraine and is committing no us soldiers.

Instead (and like in Ukraine), Washington is dangling money -- US $65

million more for Haiti and US $100 million ‘to support the effort’, but from a far distance.

Like in Grenada back 40 years ago next month, normally-progressive Caribbean political, press and academic personalities have already started toeing-the-line with amorphous and heavily-loaded statements like ‘Democracy is under threat’ and ‘Law and Order must be restored by all means necessary…’

Such positions unquestionably support yet-another external violent intervention in the long history of Western-led imperial and imperialist orchestrated coups and invasions of Haiti.

The West has long determined that the small Caribbean ‘half-island’ nation, whose Black leaders defeated Napoleon and

the Europeans armies to establish the first Black Republic and to formally Abolish Slavery in 1804, must never-again be allowed its freedom.

Haiti was forced to pay virtually perpetual Reparations to France for the Revolution that started the struggle to end Trans-Atlantic Chattel Slavery.

Today, as if Black Lives no longer matter, the US is funding a clear Black-on-Black onslaught, using Caribbean and African soldiers to further legitimise an unpopular prime minister of a truly-failed state, to install yet another ‘transitional’ administration in Port-au-Prince, that will most-likely allow the Status Quo to continue – and lead to the next military coup.

Lethem’s Transformation: Infrastructure development, housing programme advancing

LETHEM, Region Nine, is seeing major development in infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on housing.

The new housing development at Tract CHPA (Poke Bridge) is currently undergoing significant

infrastructure works, as around 575 individuals have been assigned residential house lots.

According to the Ministry of Housing and Water, those individuals who were allocated lands in Phase Four and Five will

soon have access to their properties as infrastructure works are nearing completion.

Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), Sherwyn Greaves, on Tuesday,

visited the location and was briefed on the ongoing works by the clerk of works.

The contractor, R. Kissoon Contracting Services, is expected to conclude the road network in Phase Five by the end of this week, while the road network in Phase Four has already been completed. Works are also ongoing on the drainage networks and culverts, as well as the pipe network.

In May of this year, a $507 million contract was signed for the ongoing infrastructure works. Persons have started construction on their homes in some sections of the scheme.

Meanwhile, a number of homes have been completed in the New Culvert City Housing Scheme, under the Lethem Housing Support Programme.

The initiative represents another commitment by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to provide affordable homes for Guyanese.

In the first phase of the project, a total of 48 low-income families are slated to benefit. Several other homes are at various stages of completion in the Tabatinga Housing Scheme.

Conceptualised by President Ali, the programme aims to offer affordable housing options to 600 Lethem residents. Each unit spans approximately 550 square feet and includes two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a sanitary facility.

Each home will be constructed at a cost of $3 million, of which $1 million in support for the building cost will be pro-

vided by the ministry. The ministry has also partnered with the New Building Society, Republic Bank Guyana Ltd, and the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, to offer loans to the tune of $2 million, at a rate of 3.5 per cent to the prospective homeowners.

Furthermore, contracts have been awarded for the procurement of clay bricks from various communities in the region, such as St. Ignatius, Kwatamang, Shulinab, and Shea. Timber is also being sourced from the villages of Moco Moco and Surama.

N/A driver who hit traffic cop gets $145,000 bail

- Slapped with slew of charges

A 36-YEAR-OLD Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice driver who allegedly hit a traffic officer and drove away with him on his car bonnet, was on Friday slapped with a series of traffic charges and released on $145,000 bail.

Prince Sinclair appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to 11 charges.

Particulars of the first four charges alleged that Sinclair, while being the driver of motor car PLL 4242 on September 27, at Main Street, New Amsterdam, drove in a dangerous manner.

He also pleaded not guilty to the following charges: prohibition of tinted glass, conduct of driver, maintenance of motor vehicle, stopping within 30 feet of a corner, wanton driving,

disorderly behaviour, and failure to stop when directed by police in uniform.

In addition to posting bail, Sinclair was ordered to lodge his passport at the court.

His trial is set for Friday October 27, 2023.

The Guyana Police Force has reported that he is accused of, among other things, driving into, injuring, and using a series of expletives against Police Constable Daniel Fredricks, who is stationed at Central Police Station’s Traffic Department.

According to the GPF, Fredricks was on patrol duty with Force motorcycle #CL 2610 along Main Street, New Amsterdam when he observed a motorcar with registration PLL 4242, which was parked within 30 feet of Shoelane Street and Main Street, obstructing the free flow of traffic.

As such, Constable Fredricks contacted Sinclair, the driver of the car, and told him of the offence committed.

“The driver got angry and started to use a series of expletives at the cop.

The driver then entered his car, drove it towards the Police rank, and collided with his right foot. Constable Fredricks fell onto the car bonnet, and the driver continued to drive along Main Street and then onto Republic Road,” the GPF said.

One of the completed homes at the New Culvert City housing scheme

CPHA Chief Executive Officer, Sherwyn Greaves, during inspection of works at the Tract CHPA scheme

Prince Sinclair

New York senate delegation to visit Guyana

By Naomi Parris

A HIGH-LEVEL delegation of New York State officials led by New York State Senator, Roxanne J. Persaud and Assembly member Alicia Hyndman is expected to be in Guyana next month.

The officials will be in the country for a five-day visit with a contingent of elected officials from the United States Congress, New York State Senate, New York State Assembly, New York City Council, Schenectady County, and the City of Schenectady.

According to information reaching the Guyana Chronicle, the delegation has a vested stake because New York State is home to the largest population of Guyanese in the United States. The delegation hopes to foster co-operation and dialogue

between the Government of Guyana and the Guyanese Diaspora within the State of New York and at the Federal Level.

Recently the country’s Head of State, Dr. Irfaan Ali attended a diaspora event in New York.

The Head of State told scores of Guyanese living overseas that the country’s advancement will see Guyana becoming a powerhouse, representing several other countries in the Caribbean and Latin American region.

“We are building a country that is ahead of time; one that is sustainable, resilient, viable, and competitive, but, importantly, one in which Guyana will present global leadership on energy, food and climate,” Dr. Ali told the gathering at the Hotel Liberty Inn and Suites.

He added: “We are building a country for the next

seven years; it will be far ahead of time. Aware of the fact that we might be 30 years behind the rest of the world, but, by 2030, we have to be in front of the rest of the world.”

Dr. Ali said, however, that the outlook for many will have to change in order for the country to achieve its

goals.

“This requires very hard work; this requires an understanding of the scale of the task ahead, and this requires us ridding ourselves of the selfishness, and being selfless in the approach to development,” he related.

Dr. Ali reiterated that Guyana’s advancement will

be a shared success for the region.

“We are working on ensuring that our prosperity also brings prosperity to the rest of the Caribbean and the rest of the CARICOM region and South American region,” the Head of State said.

Strategic and critical investments are also being

made to strengthen the country’s health and education sectors to ensure citizens are given the best and equitable service across the country, further fortifying the country’s goal to become resilient in the global arena.

“We are building an economy that is different; one that will be built on innovation, research and development, scientific advancement… We want to build a healthcare system and an education system that are second to none,” Dr. Ali said.

The President had spent several days in New York where he attended the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

He also engaged with several United States top officials on the sidelines, including former President, Bill Clinton.

Restorative Justice in Prisons: Transforming officers into leaders

THE new Restorative Justice drive and 2023 Action Plan were formally introduced by Seelall Persaud, Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, during a recent meeting with prison officials.

The Restorative Justice Act was passed by Parliament earlier this year to address prison overcrowding by decreasing pre-trial detention, lowering recidivism, and promoting the use of alternative sentencing, among other measures.

To this end, a new Restorative Justice Centre was established which will be working with perpetrators and victims of soft crimes with the aim of resolving interpersonal

conflicts.

Mr. Persaud informed the officials that the Centre plans to collaborate with the prison service to teach emotional skills to imprisoned individuals for success inside and outside of prison.

The Restorative Justice Centre's 2023 plan involves training and mentoring prison officers to become leaders in the Restorative Justice process for inmates. This is necessary to prepare probation professionals to promote rehabilitation and reintegration according to Restorative Justice principles. This training can help inmates prepare for re-entry into society.

The Director of the Restorative Justice Centre high-

lighted the progress made in establishing trustworthy support systems in chosen communities, as well as the vision for starting the case management system outlined in the Restorative Justice Act.

Meanwhile, Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, thanked Mr. Persaud for the visit, and stated that the prison service was delighted to play its part in Restorative Justice.

Additionally, Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim, Head of the Prison Service’s Strategic Management Department, RaeDawn Corbin-Cameron and Welfare and Correctional Officer, Tassa McGarrell were also part of the meeting.

Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, Seelall Persaud (centre), flanked by Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot (second from right), Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim (fourth from right) along with Prison Service’s Strategic Management Department Head, Rae-Dawn Corbin-Cameron and Welfare and Correctional Officer, Tassa McGarrell

Senator Roxanne J. Persaud

Assembly member Alicia Hyndman

Tourism Sector: Gov’t gears up for growth, development with private sector collaboration

IN the midst of a transformative revolution that promises an array of new opportunities, government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the private sector to boost the tourism industry. The announcement was made by Oneidge Walrond, the Minister of Tourism, In-

dustry, and Commerce, during the recent launch of experimental tourism products at Bookland Gardens in Georgetown.

Minister Walrond em -

destination. She underscored the government's unwavering dedication to prioritising the tourism sector, which has led to significant investments by both public and private entities.

“The private companies within the tourism sector have invested in seeing the growth of this sector. It may look like a small gesture, but we as a government have described and articulated to the private sector and the nation our commitment to making tourism a priority sector,” Minister Walrond remarked.

Billions of dollars have been allocated to the development and enhancement of tourism products, destinations, and experiences across the country, reflecting the government's focus on positioning Guyana as a premier eco-tourism destination and a hub for entertainment, conferences, sports, and a range of thrilling activities.

In alignment with the government's agenda, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has been actively collaborating with all regions to explore potential tourism products and experiences. Among the recent additions to the country's tourism offerings are the

and culinary experiences.

Another notable destination is the Pakuri Fin and Feather Adventure, designed to promote birding and fishing while allowing visitors to delve into the natural, cultural, and historical aspects of villages along the Mahaica

As Guyana continues to invest in its tourism sector, it aims to attract a diverse range of visitors and provide memorable experiences that showcase the country's natural beauty, culture, and adventure. With collaboration between the government and

phasised the pivotal role of private-sector companies, supported by government initiatives, in shaping Guyana into a sought-after tourism

“These activities are indeed part of a holistic vision of government to drive visitors to our country. And when they do so, they will be met with many promotional activities,” the tourism minister affirmed.

Essequibo Weekend, which presents a wellness itinerary on the serene Essequibo Coast, featuring activities like yoga, massages, sip and paint,

offers an opportunity to explore the Savannahs through diverse terrains.

its

nation is poised to become an even more enticing destination for travellers from around the world.

River. Additionally, the Yarrowkabra Dream ATV Tour

private sector at

core, the

River tour being conducted by a private tour operator

Oneidge Walrond, the Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce

Mid-year report: Forestry industry forecasted to maintain growth in 2023

GUYANA’S forestry sector remains both vibrant and sustainable and with an estimated growth of 4.5 per cent, it was said that the second half of the year is looking positive too.

This performance is according to the Ministry of Finance’s mid-year report for 2023.

“At the end of June, 209,238 cubic metres of timber products were produced, compared with 203,220 cubic metres during the same period last year,” the Ministry of Finance said.

It was said that the production of logs grew by 5.1 per cent in first half of 2023, and roundwood by 28.5 per cent.

“The 2023 outlook for the sector remains unchanged, with growth forecasted at 4 per cent for the year, as concession holders work to meet outstanding targets,” the report read.

Notably, Guyana’s forestry industry employs over 20,000 people and has an annual export value of between $40 and $60 million. There are also 580 small concessions and 17 large concessions, all of which are leased to and run by private individuals or businesses and community forest operators.

The Guyana Forestry Commission oversees and regulates the operations of forest concessions to ensure that operators follow strict sustainable forest management norms and guidelines and that applicable forest legislation is efficiently carried out.

Over the years, Guyana

has maintained minimal deforestation with ongoing mining activities, and over 99 per cent of Guyana’s forest cover has been maintained. LCDS 2030 advances the objective of integrating the planning and management of the mining and forestry sectors, supporting sustainable forest management, and advancing low-impact mining to strengthen efforts to achieve the necessary balance between enhancing the employment and economic benefits created by the forestry and mining sectors while also fostering efforts to safeguard Guyana’s ecosystem services.

The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a global standard that supports transparent and accountable management of natural resources. It aims to improve confidence, bolster corporate and governmental processes, and provide infor-

Literacy Village hosted along Main Street

THE National Literacy Department, in collaboration with the Department of Education, Georgetown, hosted a Literacy Village, on Friday, along Main Street, Georgetown.

The avenue was a rainbow of colours as schools displayed their creative and innovative best practices in the literacy department. Some of the activities in -

cluded interactive games and puppet shows which incorporated elements of literacy.

Delivering brief remarks during the opening ceremony, Principal Education Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Bridgewater stated that literacy was the foundation for education. He noted that the Ministry of Education had been working assiduously to improve the literacy level of learners

across the country.

One such initiative, he explained, was the Literacy and Robotics programme which was being rolled out.

Providing an overview of the Literacy Village, the Regional Literacy Coordinator for Georgetown, Ms. Tracy Ally, explained that the purpose of the activity was to raise literacy awareness. She told the audience that

Venezuelan miner remanded for allegedly killing mother of three

A 35-year-old Venezuelan miner was, on Friday, remanded to prison for the murder of Venezuelan woman, Estephanie Garcia, in her Kaikan, Region Seven home.

Jairo Medina Hernandes appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for the capital offence.

Hernandes was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that, on September 22, 2023, at Mosapai Backdam, Wenamu River, Region Seven, he murdered Garcia. He was remanded to prison until December 19, 2023.

Jairo Medina Hernandes

According to reports from the police, the victim lived in a wooden cottage at Kaikan with her reputed husband, Elvis Trotman and her three children. On the day in question, Garcia’s lifeless

body was discovered by her three children when they returned from school.

An alarm was raised, and neighbours responded and subsequently reported the matter to the Police at Kaikan Police Station.

On arrival at the scene, the body was found lying on its back on the floor of the one-bedroom house with a red T-shirt pulled just above her breast and multi-coloured underwear pulled below her buttocks with her private parts exposed.

The body was examined, and two small puncture wounds were seen on her neck.

mation for public discourse.

Guyana first got involved with the EITI on May 4, 2010, when the country’s Prime Minister declared interest in putting it into practice. Guyana submitted its applications to the EITI International Secretariat in August 2017, and on October 25th, 2017, the country was formally accepted as an EITI implementing country.

Additionally, 2019 saw the release of Guyana’s first EITI report, which covered the fiscal year 2017. This was followed by its second report in April of 2021 which covered the fiscal year 2018. These reports provided data on mineral production and hydrocarbon sector exploration operations.

Sustainable Forestry Practices Guyana has one of the best managed sustainable forestry systems in the world, thanks to excellent timber harvesting codes of

practice, the use of Reduced Impact Logging techniques, strict adherence to forest governance and legality, and careful planning before and after harvesting.

As a result, the majority of the supply chain for Guyana’s timber is largely deforestation-free. The amount of harvest is regularly lower than the annual maximum levels determined using data from the forest inventory. To ensure the effective management of forest resources, sustainable forest management is required, including forest monitoring and enforcement as well as ongoing development of the related codes of practice. Guyana stands out among forest countries for its exemplary forest governance in the sector and strong systems of sustainable forest management.

literacy was not just a skill but a dynamic tool which helps people to adapt to the ever-evolving world.

She further encouraged parents and teachers to provide the necessary support to ensure their children develop literacy skills.

New $28M Haslington Nursery School commissioned

THE new building for Haslington Nursery School in Region Four, on the East Coast of Demerara, was commissioned, on Friday, by the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand. The new school was built at a cost of $28,129,000.

Delivering the feature address, Minister Manickchand encouraged the parents present that they need to play a greater role in the lives of their children so that their children can receive an education.

spoke about the recently distributed school grants that can be used to purchase items to enhance the school and ensure its smooth functioning. The Haslington Nursery School currently has 60 children enrolled. This amounts to a total of $240,000 per term at $4000 per child.

Minister Manickchand told parents that even though the grants are given to support the work of the school, they should still play an active role in the life of the school through

can further develop and move Guyana forward.

The Assistant Chief Education Officer, Mr. Devendre Persaud, said that the new structure was in keeping with the Government’s commitment to enhance school structures across the country so that children can enjoy the best facilities to acquire an education.

He said, “I firmly believe that buildings, classrooms, laboratories, and equipment- educational infrastructure- are crucial elements of schools’ learn-

She urged the teachers to continue working with their children so that they can produce children who can read at their grade level. The Education Minister said that it will go a long way in setting the foundation for children to be successful as they move through the school system.

Further, Minister Manickchand said that the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Education, will continue to support teachers and students. She

the Parent-Teachers Association. She said that the new school was more than a building. “In this building, children will attend school, and they will leave ready to help run this country, to help to run this world. So, it is far more than a building, but it must have begun with a building,” she noted.

The Education Minister said that the Government of Guyana is investing in children across Guyana and will continue to do so to produce the quality of citizens that

ing environments. There is strong evidence that high-quality infrastructure facilitates better instruction, improves student outcomes, and reduces dropout rates, among other benefits.” He said Nursery education is paramount in developing a well-rounded child.

Mr. Persaud applauded the Regional Administration and the Department of Education for Region Four for their excellent work to improve the quality of education infrastructure in the region.

Also, present at Friday’s commissioning was the Regional Education Officer, Mr. Adrian Elgin who said that he was honoured to witness the commissioning of the school.

On behalf of the Regional Democratic Council and the Department of Education, he thanked the Ministry of Education and the Government of Guyana for ensuring the region and the community of Haslington received a brand-new nursery school.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, cuts the ribbon to officially commission the new school, along with the children, teachers, Regional Education Officer and the Headmistress

The New Haslington Nursery School

The old Haslington Nursery School

Gov’t withdraws $US50M from oil fund

THE Government of Guyana has made its fifth withdrawal from the Natural Resource Fund in accordance with the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act 2021.

The Ministry of Finance, in a press release on Friday, revealed that the government, in pursuant to section 16 of the NRF Act 2021, has withdrawn a further US$50 million from the NRF in September, equivalent to G$10.4 billion.

It would be recalled that, in August and Sep-

tember, amounts totalling US$200 million, equivalent to G$41.6 billion had been transferred from the Natural Resource Fund to the Consolidated Fund to finance national development priorities and, in February and May of this year, the Government made withdrawals amounting to US$400 million equivalent to G$83.2 billion.

According to the ministry, this brings the accumulated withdrawals from the NRF for the year 2023 to US$650 million, equivalent to G$135.2

billion.

In keeping with the NRF Act 2021, as part of the Budget 2023 process, Parliamentary approval was granted for a total of US$1.002 billion to be transferred during fiscal year 2023.

The ministry said the Government will continue to work aggressively through sound and transformative investments of oil resources from the NRF, utilising these resources clearly and transparently to benefit present and future generations.

‘Aunty Lena’, two others jailed, fined $1.7M for cocaine trafficking

BUSINESSWOMAN Lena

Narine, 63, along with Sherlan Edmonson, 54, and Earl Branch, 49, were, on Friday, sentenced to two years in prison, together with a fine of $1.7 million each for cocaine trafficking.

The trio were on trial before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where they were later convicted for the charge which alleged that, on January 27, 2023, at Shantiniketan Street, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown, they had 1.050 kilograms (kg) of cocaine for the purpose of

trafficking.

Giving the nature and gravity of the offence, Magistrate Singh sentenced the trio to serve two years’ imprisonment together with a fine of $1.7M.

According to a press release from the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), on the day in question, the trio were arrested following the discovery of $1.1 million worth of cocaine at Santiniketan Street, Prasad Nagar, Georgetown.

It was further noted that Narine, who owned the house, Edmonson, also of the said address, and Branch,

of Pike Street, Kitty, Georgetown, were arrested and escorted to CANU’s Headquarters with the suspected illegal substance.

The narcotic tested positive for cocaine, amounting to 1.050 kilogrammes (about 2.3 pounds), with a street value of approximately $1.1 million.

Narine was previously arrested along with two other persons in March 2022, when officers discovered 11.4 kilogrammes of cocaine and 266 grams of ecstasy at this same address.

Inmate rehabilitation showcased at National Cultural Centre tarmac exhibition

UNDER the theme ‘Promoting Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Prisoners’, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), on Friday (yesterday), opened an exhibition at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac illustrating the various rehabilitation programmes offered.

The two-day event opened at 10:00 hours and will conclude today. Prior to the opening of the exhibition, the GPS Church Service was

held in the National Cultural Centre’s Auditorium.

Booths ranging from tailoring, arts and crafts, leathercraft, agriculture, cosmetology, culinary arts, training, event décor, and carpentry are on display.

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, officially opened the exhibition and said he strongly believed that the provision of rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for people in prison must be consistent, where each inmate has equal opportunity.

Minister Benn also shared a few strong sentiments, saying that all inmates deserve the opportunity to be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society.

“Those skills will help them earn a living upon release and effectively integrate into their families and communities, so the ability to take part in certain ac -

tivities and programmes is often an essential part of demonstrating successful rehabilitation,” the Home Affairs Minister noted.

Since returning to office in August 2020, the rehabilitation of inmates has become the key focus of the government’s work programme.

The 2023 budget had allocated $100 million to facilitate the training of 1,500 inmates and to support the training of prison officers in prison management.

Meanwhile, Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, said the exhibition will provide inmates with a platform to express their commitment and showcase their depth of talent.

“This exhibition will not only showcase the positive developments, but it will also showcase the depth of innovation and creativity by the inmates,” Mr. Elliot stated.

Prison drug-smuggling attempt ends in three-year sentence, fine

A 21-year-old woman was, on Friday, sentenced to three years in jail together with $30,000 fine for attempting to smuggle cannabis into Camp Street prison to a murder accused, who is currently on remand.

Teana Anderson, of ‘C’ Field Sophia, was sentenced by Senior Magistrate, Leron Daly, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The unrepresented woman admitted that, on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, she had 106 grams of cannabis sativa in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

According to reports, on the day in question, around 14:15 hours, Anderson entered the prison facility to take the item for inmate, Akeem Edwards.

A search was conducted on a black plastic bag she was carrying with the item. Upon further checking, a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis were found hidden under

JAILED

Teana Anderson

the sole of the sneaker. She was arrested and taken to the Alberttown Police Station, where she was later charged and placed before the court.

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn and Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, during their walk through and inspection of furniture made by inmates

Round two set for today Courts Optical pee wee football continues

will take place at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue.

In the first of the games, at 10:30 hours , St John ’ s College plays Kabakaburi with Leonora Primary and Tapakuma playing on the opposing pitch

At 11:20 hours Potaro Primary will play Sophia while St Aloysius takes on Annandale

At 12:10 hours Rosignol

and Den Amstel will clash while All Saints and Smith’s Memorial play on pitch B

One Mile Primary takes on Friendship at 13:00 hours while there will be a battle between Soesdyke and Tuschen Primary

At 13:50hrs Belladrum locks horns with Westfied on pitch A while St Pius and Winfer Gardens battle on pitch two.

Enterprise Primary will

battle Collaco from 14:40 hours while Anns Grove and F E Pollard meet on the second pitch

At 15:30 hours Marian Academy engages St Gabriel’s while North G T Primary and Tucville Primary will be engaged in another fixture

The last pair of matches at 16:20 hours pits Redeemer against St . Stephen’s while West Ruimveldt plays St Ambrose

P&P Insurance Brokers throws support to GSCL/Prime Minister’s Softball Cup

P & P Insurance has thrown its support to the Georgetown Softball Cricket League and the ongoing Prime Minister’s Softball cup.

For a fifth year , P & P has joined forces with the League as a corporate sponsor Executive Director, Mr Vikash Panday , recently handed over the cheque

to a representative of the League

Mr Panday , in brief comments, noted that this year the tournament is much bigger, attracting teams both from Guyana and the Diaspora

Mr Panday also wished the league and all teams much success in the tournament,

P&P Insurance has been,

for a long time, fulfilling its corporate social responsibility, sponsoring all types of sporting events

Mr Panday has pledged that P & P will continue to fulfill this as he deems it very important

He has asked that fellow members of the private sector follow suit and come onboard for activities such as this.

IRISH

11:00 hrs Mintelena

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

BELMONT Race 1 Dusk Race 2 Maximillions Dream

Race 3 Sheriff Bianco

Race 4 Full Screen

Race 5 Caramel Swirl

Race 6 Soldier Rising

Race 7 Algiers

Race 8 Be The Boas

Race 9 Spendalot

CANADIAN RACING TIPS

WIODBINE

Race 1 Stormy Ocean

Race 2 Ashlee’s Ring

Race 3 Ignite The Storm

Race 4 Mo Town Mayhem

Race 5 Party

Race 6 Rosebud’s Hope Race 7 Hayek

THE second round of matches in the Courts Pee Wee Football tournament

Bangladesh top three deny Sri Lanka in warm up

( ESPNCRICINFO )Half - centuries from Bangladesh ’ s top three of Tanzid Hasan , Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz took their side to a comfortable win over Sri Lanka in their first warmup fixture ahead of the ODI World Cup , in Guwahati on Friday

Bangladesh bowled Sri Lanka out for 263, and

chased it down with eight overs to spare; other than all the issues these facts point to, Sri Lanka will also worry about their opener Kusal Perera, who walked off the field in the 10th over of their innings with a strain in his right shoulder He hit 34 off 24 before retiring hurt

Apart from the result , Bangladesh would have been pleased with Tanzid , who

Rizwan, Azam half century fail to derail New Zealand

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Mohammad Rizwan’s century and half-centuries from Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel went in vain as Pakistan couldn’t defend 345 in their warm-up match against New Zealand in Hyderabad. Rachin Ravindra seized his chance as an opener, scoring 97 off 72 balls to lead New Zealand’s successful chase.

New Zealand will also be pleased with the progress of Kane Williamson, who marked his return from a sixmonth injury layoff with a 49-ball fifty Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman also hit half-centuries to warm up for the World Cup proper.

After opting to bat first, Pakistan lost two early wickets, but Babar and Rizwan steadied the innings and set the scene for the late assault from Shakeel. Babar and Rizwan added 114 for the third wicket before Mitchell Santner snagged Babar for 80 off 84 balls. Rizwan was more fluent against spin and often manufactured room to drive them inside-out over extra-cover. He pressed onto a century and then retired out on 103 off 94 balls. Shakeel and Agha Salman teed off in the end overs to take Pakistan closer to 350. But it wasn’t enough in the end.

Ravindra, who often bats in the top order for his domestic side Wellington Firebirds, made a strong impression in the same role for the national team too. He was responsible for 32 of the 65 runs New Zealand had scored in the mandatory powerplay. He combined with Williamson and picked away spinners Salman and Usama Mir with ease.

Williamson retired out on 54 and Ravindra fell three short of a century, but Mitchell and Chapman ensured that New Zealand coasted to victory, with more than six overs to spare. Barring Mir, every Pakistan bowler conceded at over seven runs an over.

made his debut during the Asia Cup in August and has played just five ODIs so far, as he eases into the international scene

His breezy knock of 84 off 88 balls, which included ten fours and two sixes, blunted a Sri Lanka attack that struggled to exert any pressure His 131-run opening stand off 124 balls with

Litton, who notched up 61, laid a fine platform for the team to chase down Sri Lanka’s 263 Mehidy, who was Bangladesh’s captain for the game, followed the openers’ efforts with an unbeaten 67 He had also bowled 10 tight overs, taking 1 for 32.

After they opted to bat, Sri Lanka began , promisingly, with Pathum Nissan-

ka adding a combined 104 with Perera and Kusal Mendis , before they lost their first wicket in the 15th over Nissanka top-scored with an aggressive 68, and Dhananjaya de Silva made 55 at No 6 , but most of the middle order struggled to get going, with off-spinner Mahedi Hasan picking up 3 for 36 in his nine overs Tanzim

Hasan Sakib, Shoriful Islam, Nasum Ahmed, and Mehidy also chipped in with a wicket each to bowl Sri Lanka out in the final over Bangladesh will play their next warm - up game against England on Monday, while Sri Lanka will meet Afghanistan on Tuesday Both matches will be played at the same venue.

Tanzid Hasan warmed up for the World Cup with a fluent fifty (Getty Images)

Mohammad Rizwan played a number of attractive shots • ICC via Getty Images

Deitz looking for West Indies to ‘step up’ against Australia

CMC – West Indies Women’s head coach Shane Deitz was generally satisfied with the way his side played in their opening match on the Tour of Australia.

Though the Caribbean side failed to ease concerns about their batting, they still managed to complete a morale-boosting, four-wicket win against New South Wales Women in a Twenty20 practice match on Thursday match.

West Indies Women were

wobbling on eight for three in the third over, but Shemaine Campbelle led the way with 33, and their captain Hayley Matthews made 24, and they successfully chased 106 to win the match at Cricket Central located in the Sydney Olympic Park complex.

“It was good to get the first win on tour,” Deitz told CWI Media. “I think we’ve got a lot of areas we need to improve on, particularly the top order batting, but I think it’s just getting used

to these pitches, which have extra pace and bounce in them compared to what the girls played on at the WCPL (Women’s Caribbean Premier League).

“Overall, it was their first outing, a bit rusty, but I think we played generally pretty good all-round, and it’s gonna put us in a good position to play on Sunday.”

The visitors face hosts Australia Women in three Twenty20 Internationals on Sunday and Tuesday at North

Sydney Oval in this city, and next Friday at Allan Border Field in Brisbane.

Deitz said he was excited about the positive manner in which the team finished off the match against NSW Women.

“It was great to see them close out the match like that and really express themselves as players and hit the ball,” he said. “That’s what we talked about. We want to play a very West Indian calypso attacking type of play, and those girls really showed it at the end, and Zaida (James), a young up and coming player, she bowled really well too I thought, so she had a great first game in

Australia.”

Campbelle and Matthews inched West Indies towards 50 with a stand of 36 before they were two of three wickets that fell in the span of 24 balls to leave the chase at the crossroads.

Aaliyah Alleyne, not out on 19, and James, not on 15, added 32 unbroken to get the visitors over the finish line with 13 balls remaining.

Earlier, off-spinner Karishma Ramharack returned the flattering figures of three for 12 from three overs and the NSW Women could only muster 105 for nine from their allocation of 20 overs.

Matthews started a tidy all-round performance with

two for seven from two overs, and pacer Alleyne took two for 13 from two overs.

Deitz said he expected the spinners to play a significant role for West Indies Women in the series against the Aussies.

“Our spinners bowled really well,” he said. “We are trying a few different things with them and their tactics and what they’re doing the ball, so they did really well and took on board what we suggested, and they produced it in the middle.

They were really good, so I think they are going to be probably a key factor for us.”

Roach heaps praise on English County management system

CMC – Long - serving West Indies pacer Kemar Roach has heaped praise on the player management system of Surrey after the English county club were confirmed Division 1 firstclass champions for the second year running.

The 35-year-old Barbadian took 26 wickets, the fifth highest for the club, at 26.26 runs apiece in the eight matches he’s played this season , and says he is looking forward to another opportunity to play for the club in the future

“I love this club,” he said during a video interview appearing on the club’s website. “Obviously, I love the atmosphere; I love the people around the club I think they do a fantastic job

“ The system , as I have said many times , it’s an amazing system, and there ’ s no reason why we shouldn ’ t win every year

“I thank the people in this club , and everyone that does their job as well as they can There ’ s a reason why we won the Championship for the last two years , so I ’ m happy to come back every

chance I get But yeah, I’m happy with the club.”

It was the 21st county championship title for Surrey, and the players learnt of the news while in the field on the third day of their final match of the season against Hampshire, at the Rose Bowl in Southampton

Will Jacks pulled out of delivering the fourth ball of the 24th over of the Hampshire second innings , after the Surrey fans in the ground started cheering about 12:24 p m., and he saluted the crowd before wider celebrations followed at

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday September 30, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Andre Fletcher-278 runs

(2) Oshane Thomas-9 wickets

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who are the CPL 2023 Champions?

(2) Who was voted Man of the Tournament? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

lunch Essex, the only other contender for the title , were bowled out for under 400 at Wantage Road, and could no longer secure the

bonus points needed to overtake Surrey

On the field , Surrey were set 185 for victory, after they bowled Hampshire out for 172 , with

Roach ending with the peerless figures of 7-3-70, and Jacks toasting his maiden Surrey five-wicket haul

The newly - crowned

champions lost six wickets before the close on a difficult pitch in the chase , and they will need a tricky 73 on the final day on Friday.

Kemar Roach

World Classic & Equipped Masters Powerlifting Championships

…

Guyanese duo of Nadina Taharally and Roger Rogers to debut

THE Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) is set to continue its hectic year of competition when the Federation attends its third World Championship for this year, which is being considered an unprecedented feat.

In June, Carlos Petterson-Griffith attended the World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships in Malta whilst in August-September, the duo of Romeo Hunter and Dominic Tyrell represented the Golden Arrowhead at the World Classic & Equipped Sub-Junior & Junior Powerlifting Championships which took place in Romania.

These athletes are now passing the baton to Nadina Taharally and Roger Rogers who on debut, would be aiming to build on the successful medal hauls of their colleagues in both Malta and Romania.

Taharally would be contesting the Masters 1 76kg Class of the World Masters Women’s Classic Championships while Rogers would be aiming for glory in the Master 11 120kg

category of the World Masters Men’s Classic Championships, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from October 8-15.

Both athletes have been hard at training over the past year and have expressed confidence that they’ll do their utmost to maintain the rich tradition of powerlifting for Guyana.

Taharally commenced her career in powerlifting in 2015 and ever since has been a force to reckon with locally and regionally. Two years into her career, she made the cut to represent Guyana at the Regional level and did so on two occasions at the North American Powerlifting Championships in Orlando, Florida, once in Uruguay, and once in Mexico.

Having missed out on competing at the Commonwealth Games in New Zealand last year due to visa issues, Taharally, former bodybuilding, and Miss Best Legs winner as well as CrossFit competitor who placed 3rd at the inaugural event held in

Guyana in 2015, says that this year will be a defining year in her short but very successful career.

Rogers, like Taharally has enjoyed a short but successful career in the sport to date. His first competitive lift on the platform was in 2019, his performance was so good that he made the national shortlist for 2020.

With sports across the board, locally and internationally being curtailed due to COVID-19, Rogers would be competitive again in 2021 at the NAPF/Pan American championships in 2021, Orlando where he made his international debut, chalking up Pan Am squat and deadlift records in the process.

He missed the Commonwealth Championships last year in New Zealand due to the late issuing of the visa.

That would not be a deterrent this time around as both athletes have already obtained the necessary visas and are scheduled to wing out of Guyana on Monday night for Mongolia.

GAPLF President Franklin Wilson has extended best wishes to both athletes on behalf of his Executive and the powerlifting fraternity in Guyana.

“We have been following your progress on the platform and we have no doubt that you will continue to do yourselves and Guyana proud on the world stage. Your commitment to putting in the hard work, we are sure will bring the desired rewards when you hit the platform, and we wish you the best.”

Wilson also noted that the year has been very hectic for his new executive as Guyana has already competed at three overseas competitions and has medaled at each.

“We have also been able to run off our statutory competitions locally, the Intermediate and Masters as well as Raw Nationals and we will pull the curtains down on what will be the most hectic year for the sport to date in a calendar year, with Senior Nationals on December 10.”

BCB launches Jagdeo Construction Lower Corentyne Second Division Tournament

–– to open BCB/UG Wall of Fame soon

A TOTAL of 18 Second Division teams from the Lower Corentyne area will be involved in a knockout Second Division tournament, which was officially launched on Monday last.

Popular Berbice contractor Kris Jagdeo, of Jagdeo Construction Inc ., has joined hands with the Berbice Cricket Board to sponsor a 20/20 cricket tournament for teams between No 1 Road to No 43 Village

BCB President Hilbert Foster hailed the support of the company, and urged the 18 teams to get themselves in order for the start of the tournament on October 15.

The teams taking part are : Kennard Memorial, Ramnarine Memorial, Kildonan, Whim, Tain Block 4, Port Mourant, RHT Bakewell , Rose Hall Tigers , UG Elites , Guns and Cannon, Tamarind Roots, Belvedere United, Albion, Jai Hind, Chesney, Kilcoy, Fyrish, and Courtland

BCB President Hilbert Foster and Chairman of the Competition Committee Leslie Soloman met representatives of the clubs on Wednesday last to inform them that the tournament is the first of three to be played in the Lower Corentyne Area, and that only players living in the sub-areas would be allowed to participate

The other two Lower Corentyne tourna-

ments will be another 20/20 and a 40-over round-robin

Foster expressed thanks to Kris Jagdeo for his continued support, and hailed the $300,000 scholarship as another red-letter day in the continued development of Berbice Cricket

Jagdeo said he is pleased to be associated with Berbice Cricket, as he is impressed with the developments taking place in the

County

The winning team, runner-up and Manof- the-Finals will receive monetary awards, along with trophies

The first round of the tournament will see Fyrish Vs Whim at Fyrish; Kilcoy vs Tamarind Roots at Kilcoy ; Jai Hind vs Kildonan at Jai Hind; Chesney vs Albion at Chesney; Ramnarine Memorial vs Tain Block 4 at Liverpool; UG Elites vs Courtland at Port Mourant (10:00hrs); Port Mourant vs Belevdere at Port Mourant (13:30hrs); RHTYSC vs Kennard Memorial at Area ‘H’ (10:00hrs), RHT Tigers vs Gun and Cannon at Area ‘H’ (13:00hrs).

Meanwhile, the Berbice Cricket Board is on the verge of joining hands with the University of Guyana to open the historic Berbice Cricket Wall of Fame at the Berbice Campus

A total of 29 Berbice players who played for the West Indies at the tests, ODI and 20/20 levels would be inducted in the Wall of Fame, which would be situated in the Berbice Campus.

The list of players are: John Trim, Rohan Kanhai, Ivan Madray, Joe Soloman, Basil Butcher, Roy Fredricks, Alvin Kallicharran, Leonard Baichan, Sew Shivnarine, Clayton Lambert, Mahendra Nagamootoo, Narsingh Deonarine, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Deverdra Bishoo, Assad Fudadin, Brandon Bess, Veersasammy Permaul, Shimron Hetmyer, Gudakesh Motie, Candancy Aktins, Shemaine Campbell, Erva Giddings, Shakabi

Hilbert Foster and Director of the Tain Campus Dr Gomathirnayagam Subramarian meet to discuss the Wall of Fame

Gajnabi, Sheneeta Grimmond, Tremayne Smartt, Ashmini Munisar, Royston Crandon , Romario Shepherd and Milton Pydanna

A plaque along with their cricket information would be unveiled for each player at the University.

The BCB billboard with the County’s 20 Test players would also be upgraded. The billboard was erected in 2012 in front of the historic Port Mourant Cricket Ground, which has produced seven of the players.

BCB President Hilbert Foster launches the Kris Jagdeo Construction Inc tournament with representatives of the company

GFF/NAMILCO U-17 academy playoff set for next weekend at Providence

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the National Milling Company (NAMILCO) Thunderbolt Flour Power under-17 National Academy Playoff is back for another season of thrilling football from the country’s future male stars

The academy playoff will be rolled out through the GFF Academy Training Centres (ATC), and will kick off on Saturday , October 7 at the National Training Centre in Providence, East Bank Demerara

At yesterday ’ s simple launch ceremony, which was held at NAMILCO headquarters on the East Bank Demerara, Company Marketing Supervisor Alicia Anderson reiterated their commitment to supporting grassroots football, and encouraged persons to show their support by attending the games

“We have come on board

again to support football for the under - 17 tournament , which spreads across the length and breadth of Guyana We want persons to render support to the grassroots players, which is important for growth and development We would have seen this

ripple effect happening in other sports across Guyana as well,” Anderson said, adding:

“When you support grassroots football , that bit of motivation; the support that the players get playing in front of a crowd, and to hear the shouts of ‘Run and pass

the ball!’, or ‘Goal!’, it gives them that extra boost that they need to work on their performance, and build their motivation to perform even better NAMILCO has always been a part of that , through our Thunderbolt brand, and we will continue

to support football.”

This year’s playoff will feature teams in Group A : Georgetown, East Coast, East Bank, the National Under-15, and Berbice; and Group B: Upper Demerara, Essequibo, Bartica, and West Demerara

After a round - robin

phase, the best teams from each group will advance to the championship round , competing for the prestigious title of national champions

GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph thanked NAMILCO for their continued support of youth football, and emphasised that the collaboration has contributed to the development of young players, citing Omari Glasgow as a shining example Glasgow , who started playing in the Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 League at the age of 14, is now a star player on Guyana’s Senior Men’s National Team

He noted that the tournament continues to be a fantastic platform for the GFF to scout out talented players for the junior national teams

The Thunderbolt Flour Power Under - 17 League concludes on November 18.

Archery Guyana sends team to Caribbean Development Championships

ARCHERY Guyana will send a team to compete at the Caribbean Development Championship Games to be held in Trinidad & Tobago from September 29 to October 1, 2023, at the Dwight Yorke Stadium, in Bacolet, Tobago

During a team send-off, President of Archery Guyana, Mrs Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon indicated that the Association is pleased to congratulate the participants on their decision to take Archery shooting a step further

The team includes : Robert Singh , Umasankar Madray , Jeewanram Persaud, Saeed Karim, Naresh Sukhu , Roshini Boodhoo , Bibi Salim, Samira Duncan, Victoria Kum , Karin Toppin , Julie Ann Williams , Theresa Deoroop , Natalyia Pollard , Alim Rasheed , Courtlee Rodrigues, Richard Dookie, Teemahall Lall, Kamla Singh , Nicholas Hing , Ramane Kum, Naudia Maraj, and Shrikanata Deoroop

The foregoing list com-

––

GBI sponsors team shirts under Oasis Water brand

prises 17 athletes and five officials

Meanwhile, team shirts are courtesy of Guyana Beverages Inc ., Archery Guyana ’ s loyal corporate sponsor , which has once again stepped up to assist with sponsorship.

The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana conveyed its profound gratitude to their members , Mr Samuel Arjoon and the management of Guyana Beverage Inc. for their continued support for the development of Archery in Guyana

Delivering remarks on behalf of Guyana Beverages Inc was the Marketing Manager, Mr Colin Higgins, who said it’s always a privilege to engage and collaborate with Archery Guyana on events like this

The company is sponsoring under the Oasis Water brand , which Higgins says is taking the opportunity to develop talent in the sport Hing was named as team leader

From left are: Sacha Gouveia, Bryan Joseph, Ralf Hemsing, Troy Peters, and Alicia Anderson

Guyana Beverages Inc

Marketing Manager Mr Colin Higgins handing over shirts to Archery Guyana President Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon

Flashback! Debutant Roger Rogers powering his way to a

Classic M 11 Squat record and PB with a 251kg (553.36lb) effort on his 3rd