Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-02-2024

FRIDAY 9th February, 2024

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No. 107349

Defence Force to undergo comprehensive restructuring SEE PAGE

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- to enhance technological, strategic capabilities, President Ali says - stresses need for intelligence-led decision-making to enhance strategic planning, adaptability

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali, on Thursday unveiled plans for a comprehensive restructuring of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to better incorporate technology, assets, and international partnerships (Delano Williams photos)

‘Good neighbourliness is not merely a diplomatic nicety’ - says President Ali

- reaffirms Guyana’s ‘vigilance’, readiness to defend sovereignty

SEE PAGE

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GTU not credible, teachers India interested in being misled – VP Jagdeo long-term oil-purchase SEE PAGE

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- says union has not submitted financial reports to Auditor SEE PAGE General since 1989, opposition 16 opportunistically supporting strike

agreement with Guyana

Pressure mounts on Norton for overdue PNC/R Congress 5

SEE PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Defence Force to undergo comprehensive restructuring - to enhance technological, strategic capabilities, President Ali says - stresses need for intelligence-led decision-making to enhance strategic planning, adaptability

By Clestine Juan COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, unveiled plans for a comprehensive restructuring of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to better incorporate technology, assets, and international partnerships.

His announcement came during the GDF’s Annual Officers’ Conference at Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown, under the theme: “Transforming to better confront present and future challenges by enhancing awareness, adaptability, and agility capabilities.”

The President's address highlighted the necessity for a reorientation and reorganisation within the GDF to adapt to modern demands.

“With the type of assets that we're investing in, there'll be structural changes. To whom much is given, much is expected... this conference must address a shift in our asset base that would definitely affect a shift in strategy, a shift in positioning, and then, rework structurally how we adapt to these shifts in ensuring that we remain efficient and reliable,” President Ali explained.

This strategic overhaul, he said, coincides with Guyana's position on the United Nations (UN) Security Council, raising expectations for the country on a global scale.

“To be clear, Guyana is committed to the principle of non-aggression, but we remain vigilant and militant in the face of all and any threat. We must never be found blinking but ever ready to deter and resist any threat to our country,” President Ali said, outlining the mission of the GDF. The Head of State said: “We're strengthening defence cooperation with our friends and allies. And we are inten-

sifying the surveillance of our territory, our borders and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).”

He pointed out that surveillance is not only needed for Guyana’s borders, but that it is necessary to have complete “eyes” on “everything that belongs to Guyana,” especially its EEZ. “That is what these investments are geared towards, giving us a comprehensive and total understanding of everything that occurs within our borders and our exclusive economic zone,” Dr Ali said.

In support of these strategic objectives, the government has allocated $42.2 billion to the GDF, marking an 85 per cent increase from its previous budget.

This funding is dedicated to bolstering Guyana’s defence capabilities through the procurement of two aircrafts, four helicopters, one long-range drone, and an offshore patrol vessel for the Coast Guard.

The President said that Guyana’s defence strategy is rooted in the “well-being and security of all citizens and respect for national sovereignty.”

“From the time we believe, or we come under the mistaken view that our strategy is rooted in a political directive or in a political [way] we will be doing injustice to the strategy. This strategy is rooted in the people of our country …that requires a different level of understanding of the professionalism that is required because you are rooted to the people of our country,” the President said to the officers.

HEALTHY DEFENCE STRATEGY The Commander-in-Chief said that one of the things required to keep the defence strategy “healthy” is effectively boosting the technology to meet today’s environment, given the changing nature of defence.

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali unveiled plans for a comprehensive restructuring of the GDF to better incorporate technology, assets, and international partnerships (Delano Williams Photo) “We cannot operate in today’s environment if we do not adopt the technology that is available before us, especially when we have a small population with such large borders and a small defence force and human asset…,” he said.

Technology, he said, becomes even more critical and important because it will give Guyana the “comparative” and “competitive” advantage.

He pointed out that the government has been investing heavenly in technology and its application, and integration will become more intense.

The President praised the high level of partnership Guyana has received, especially from the United States and other major bilateral partners, which is critical for building Guyana’s defence strategy.

“Synergy is not only investing in assets, but investing in assets and technology that offer a synergy with our partners and our allies. So that we have seamless integration when needed,” he said.

The Head of State explained that this is important for Guyana and its international partners in understanding “cul-

tural gaps” and work ethics.

President Ali highlighted the necessity of investing in the training and development of the human assets within the GDF. “Education is key, not only a degree or masters. I'm talking about the continuous upskilling of our human resource asset to meet the changing needs, the changing environment, the changing technology, to meet the demands of the changing assets,” he elaborated, advocating for intelligence-led decision-making to enhance strategic planning and adaptability.

He said such investments are crucial for enabling intelligence-led decision-making which empowers the GDF to make forward-looking deci-

sions, enhancing strategic planning and understanding both local and international contexts.

“This allows us to prepare for planning, understanding what is happening around us, and what is happening beyond Guyana,” President Ali related, emphasizing the need for a well-informed military force capable of adapting to evolving global dynamics.

It is for this reason that the reorganising of GDF is vital for “functional efficiency,” and over the next couple of weeks much attention will be placed on this since Guyana will have more assets to protect, Dr Ali said.

Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, echoed the Pres-

ident's sentiments, noting that the GDF fully embraces the National Defence Policy, focusing on strategic planning and operations.

Despite facing one of the most challenging years with the loss of valued soldiers, the GDF has seen several successes in building strategic relationships and strengthening existing ones under President Ali's transformative leadership.

He said that the National Defence Strategy has been “most rewarding”, citing that improving GDF’s domain awareness could help it adapt to challenges and optimize the Force’s response to events and other situation.

Some of the tangible outcomes from this, Brigadier Khan said, is the training and capacity building, and the work done with communities and schools.

Brigadier Khan also highlighted the GDF's commitment to improving service to its members, including housing, counselling, and career advancement opportunities, with 40 per cent of the senior command comprised of women.

This approach, he said, underscores the GDF's dedication to enhancing its operational excellence and community engagement, with significant emphasis on training and capacity building.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

India interested in long-term oilpurchase agreement with Guyana

INDIA wants to sign a multi-year oil purchase deal with Guyana and acquire stakes in the South American nation's exploration areas, the Guyanese Minister for Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, said on Thursday.

"We will make a decision at some point in time" on crude oil sales to India in a long-term deal,” Bharrat told reporters on the sidelines of industry event India Energy Week in Goa. He said any such deal with India would have to be approved by Guyana's

cabinet. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, wants to diversify its crude sources.

The country approved the signing of a five-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Guyana earlier this month for cooperation in energy.

After a meeting with India's oil minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, Bharrat also said Indian companies are interested in picking up stakes in Guyana's exploration acreage through negotiation rather than a bidding process. In-

dian companies did not participate in Guyana's latest oil and gas bidding round.

"Our preference (for offering oil blocks for exploration) will be through bidding, and if there is any interest in any a particular block, we are willing to negotiate and enter an agreement," Bharrat said.

When asked if Guyana was willing to offer stakes in the Stabroek Block to Indian companies, he said Guyana can offer stakes through negotiation only in relinquished areas.

The country may launch

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat and Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas of India, Hardeep Singh Puri an exploration bidding round later this year for the relinquished areas of Stabroek and other blocks.

"We have some relinquished acreage from Stabroek and other blocks so simply that means possibly we will have a bidding round possibly later this year," he said.

Stabroek, a consortium led by Exxon-Mobil that controls offshore production in Guyana, last year was required to return 20 per cent of unexplored acres under the original 2016 production contract. There are three floating production storage and offloading facilities (FPSOs) deployed at the Sta-

broek block, he added.

The block has reached production of 650,000 barrels per day (bpd), and the country expects to reach production of 1.2 million bpd by 2027, Bharrat said.

Guyana's oil production averaged 377,000 bpd in 2023. (Deccan Herald)

Digicel to employ more Guyanese, expand fibre optic network

IN a significant development for Guyana's telecommunications sector, Digicel, a key player in the industry, has announced ambitious plans to expand its fibre optic network across the country and hire more Guyanese.

This move is slated to create a plethora of job opportunities for the local population, reinforcing Digicel's commitment to Guyana's economic

and social development.

The announcement came during the launch of Digicel's Anniversary promotion at the Pegasus Hotel, where Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Deonarine Gopaul, addressed a gathering, shedding light on the company's journey and plans locally.

Having established its presence in Guyana 17 years ago under the banner: “The bigger,

better network,” Digicel has become one of the nation's premier service providers.

This year, as the company celebrated another milestone with its anniversary promotion, Digicel is not just looking back at its achievements but also looking forward, with ambitious plans that extend beyond promotions and competitions.

The ongoing promotion, which concludes on February 25, features cash awards and consolation prizes across various competitions and shopping sprees. However, Digicel's vision encompasses much more than temporary giveaways.

During his speech, Gopaul

reminisced about Digicel's 17year tenure in Guyana, highlighting the continuous effort to remain at the forefront of the telecommunications industry.

"In seventeen years, it is easy to become complacent and not improve ourselves. But today, we are still the bigger, better network," Gopaul stated.

He further underscored Digicel's accomplishments by referencing the prestigious Ookla Speed Test Award, which recognized Digicel as the best mobile network in Guyana.

The core of Gopaul's address was the expansion of Digicel's fibre optic network, a

project that has seen the company grow by over 30 per cent in recent years.

With plans to further expand, Digicel anticipates creating more job opportunities for Guyanese, aiming to double its staff in the coming years.

"Regarding job creation, we have new jobs and additional staff. We grew about 30 per cent in the last year, and we plan to double our staff in the coming years," Gopaul elaborated.

Digicel's CEO highlighted the company's social commitment to Guyana. Despite the commercial challenges of providing service in less profitable areas, Digicel has pledged to continue offering coverage across the country, including remote interior regions.

Gopaul emphasised the importance of social needs over commercial profitability, stating: "It is not always about

the commercial need but also the social need. The people in the interior do not have coverage of mobile phones, and we felt the need that we needed to provide service there. Some of the coverage areas are not making money per se, but we are still providing coverage."

Digicel's announcement of network expansion and job creation marks a significant milestone in its commitment to Guyana. By investing in infrastructure and the local workforce, Digicel is not only enhancing its service offerings but also contributing to the nation's economic and social development.

As Digicel continues to grow, it remains dedicated to being 'The bigger, better network,' serving the people of Guyana with excellence and innovation, the company said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Pressure mounts on Norton for overdue PNC/R Congress

THE People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) is standing on a shaky foundation as concerned citizens are calling upon Party Leader, Aubrey Norton, to set a date for the long-overdue Congress.

As the Opposition’s press conference was ongoing, on Thursday, it was said that concerned citizens were on the outskirts of the PNC/R Headquarters, Congress Place, calling for the Congress to be held. Within this light, Norton said that it will be held no later than August 31, 2024.

Based on the established policy, Norton’s stint at the helm of the party practically expired in December 2023.

Norton who seemed to

Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton have been caught off guard with the question as to when Congress will be held and if preparations have started, said: “At general council, it was agreed that Congress will be held no later than 31st August and that is known.”

Furthermore, instead of acknowledging those persons and the reason they were pro-

testing, Norton accused them of being paid by the current government and someone within his party that no longer “wields power.”

“We are not worried about that,” the Party Leader said while speaking about the group of persons calling for Congress to be held and not pro-longed.

While not giving an exact date, Norton said that PNC/R group members, across the country, are “preparing” for it.

“Group members are aware that Congress is coming and they are preparing for Congress,” he related.

Moreover, the Party Leader attempted to flee from the pressing issue at hand and instead accused

the government of trying to take the spotlight off of the teachers’ strike, although there has been a prolonged confusion, infighting, warring, and outright drama as the party prepares for a possible biennial congress to choose its leader ahead of the elections in 2025.

Not being given the opportunity to dodge the subject, as Norton was pressed, and he remarked that the public will be given a one or two-month notice before the PNC/R Congress is held.

“As a party, we have had a tradition, at least a month or two before the Congress we first name all the persons to head committees, etc and then we announce when the Congress will be held and

PNC’s Gary Best admits GTU’s strike action is ‘political’

PEOPLE’S National Congress-Reform (PNC-R) Executive Member, Gary Best, has admitted that the strike action orchestrated by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) is “political.”

This position is contrary to what the GTU has been claiming since the commencement of the strike action.

Additionally, even though protesters were yelling, "we ain't playing politics," Best later gave media operatives on the picket line a different message on Wednesday.

He emphasised: “Those who think that it is being politicised, it is being politicised,” while giving his rationale behind the view and stating that it is because the government is a “political entity.”

Moreover, despite the numerous incentives that have been rolled out by the current government to address cost-of-living, Best still purported that the budget is aimed to “keep people in poverty.”

Notably, President Dr Irfaan Ali, announced last month that approximately $100 billion will be put back into the pockets of people and into the economy.

For instance, $7 billion was set aside to target specific groups in cost-of-living adjustment measures.

Moreover, the budget also outlines new initiatives which include:- the provision of health vouchers for pensioners and children, improved firefighting facilities at Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and measures with the write-off of outstanding student loans owed by students to the University of Guyana.

CONCERNS Since the beginning of the strike action on Monday, many have questioned the integrity of it, especially given the remarks from the Union’s officials such as GTU General Secretary, Coretta McDonald.

On Monday, revelations by McDonald, about a “corporate sponsor” offering to reimburse striking teachers’ potential salary deductions caused concern among sections of society.

McDonald, who also serves as a parliamentarian for the APNU+AFC opposition, made this revelation while being interviewed

during a protest outside of the Ministry of Education.

“If they decide that they are going to deduct monies from our teachers’ salaries… that’s good news for us because corporate sponsors out there have already pledged that they will reimburse our teachers,” McDonald said.

However, she did not disclose the sponsor’s identity and the specifics of the agreement.

She has faced backlash over the involvement of an undisclosed corporate sponsor, with critics suggesting that such support may condition the actions and rhetoric of the GTU, especially given McDonald’s dual role as a union leader and a political figure.

This situation raises questions about the potential for conflicts of interest, where the interests of the sponsor could intersect with the union’s strategies and goals in ways that might not align with the

best interests of the teachers or the educational system at large.

Furthermore, citizens have questioned the promise of financial reimbursement to striking teachers stating that it introduces a new dynamic into the traditional risks associated with labour strikes, potentially encouraging participation by mitigating the economic consequences for individuals.

The Ministry of Education, in response, had issued notices to teachers urging the reporting of threats and intimidation related to the strike, underscoring the contentious environment surrounding the GTU’s actions.

As calls for the disclosure of the corporate sponsor’s identity grow louder, people have shifted focus to the need for accountability and clarity in financing labour movements, particularly when such movements intersect

with political interests and the welfare of public services like education

when that time would have arrived, we will announce to the public that this is the date for Congress….” Norton said.

Unlike the PNC/R, the

People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), last month, announced that they will be hosting its congress to elect a new leadership in May of this year.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Remarkable Strides

IN every situation, the good must always outweigh the bad. The same approach must be employed when looking at the work done by the government since it took office in August, 2020.

Oftentimes we get sidetracked by the naysayers and their attempts to sow discord win. However, the PPP/C government has been doing a remarkable job at rising above such nuisances and has instead, propelled its speed to get us that good life that we all want.

While there are many areas worthy of applause, the strides in the health sector will be the focus today.

While Guyana’s popula-

tion can be considered small, we can all agree that our healthcare which is critical to our survival is not where we want it to be. However, over the past few years there has been considerable improvements which cannot be ignored.

For example, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) which is the country’s main referral hospital and the largest healthcare provider in the country, is performing well despite the various constraints.

Waiting time in the Accident and Emergency Unit has been reduced considerably, a plethora of first-time surgeries, including a laparoscopic

donor nephrectomy among others have been performed; more persons, including children, are accessing surgical interventions they have been waiting on for years and all the departments are working in unison to provide a pleasant experience for all patients.

The hospital recently opened a new pathology lab which could very soon begin offering services to CARICOM countries. Important updates and information, including daily health tips can be found on the hospital’s Facebook page.

Moreover, the government has continuously stated its commitment to improve

access to healthcare and to modernise the existing system. Moves have been made in these directions and work is expected to intensify this year.

We have new and refurbished hospitals and several others are currently under construction. Modern pieces of equipment have been procured and installed. Drug shortages appear to be a thing of the past as there have been no complaints circulating in the public domain.

Recently, the nation was informed that a modern hospital outfitted with a modern lab, operating theatres, various clinics, a 24-hour accident and emergency unit

and other amenities will be constructed at Moruca, a remote village in Region One. Additionally, the urgent healthcare needs of children have not been forgotten. As a matter of fact, we were all recently reminded that it is among the priority issues government plans to tackle.

This was highlighted by President Dr. Irfaan Ali who has disclosed that government is working closely with its international partners to eliminate the backlog of children’s cardiac surgeries, which amounts to more than 150.

Hopefully, all these surgeries could be completed within an 18-month timeframe.

In addition to all the plans

and all that has been done thus far, the construction of a University of the West Indies (UWI) medical school at New Amsterdam will be welcome. Such a school, will without a doubt increase interest in medical fields and provide an array of specialist training that may not be available at the University of Guyana.

As Guyana continues to progress, we must all support the undertakings of the present administration as they work to improve the country’s healthcare structure and move the country a few steps closer to having a healthy population.

I blame the GTU for pursuing self-interest, partisan politics Dear Editor, I AM angry at the Guyana Teachers Union executives across the country for allowing themselves to be manipulated, pressured and coerced into striking against the Ministry of Education and the government of the day.

I am kerfuffled as to how the union representatives are allowing an unsuccessful trade unionist and languid worker representative like Coretta McDonald to convince them that they can somehow get the best results out of striking in that manner, crippling the education system and starving the nation’s innocent children out of learning. At least, that is what they think they are doing.

What did the innocent children ever do to the teachers’ union or the teachers?

What have the children done to GTU to be used as collateral damage in this manner?

What will happen to children’s education, and those who have to prepare for CSEC and NGSA exams or tests?

What will teachers do if these little boys and girls display the same types of

attitudes in later stages of life because they are seeing for themselves how they are made to suffer due to the striking?

Do teachers believe that their interests are not being heard? Do they believe that President Mohamed Irfaan Ali does not want to pay them what is fair and reasonable? Really?

The fact is the Ministry of Education has already met at least 25 of the 41 GTU demands to improve the working conditions of teachers.

I am aware that the government and the President are working aggressively to meet other reasonable demands. I also am aware that teachers benefited along with the public servants from increases every single year from this government and additionally benefitted from salary-scale reviews just last year, testimony to the administration's commitment to the teachers' payment and salaries issues.

I think that President Ali has announced recently another set of funds to improve the salary scales of our teachers and several non-salary interventions. This is far more progress in three years since the coalition’s infamous track

record on the negotiations with our teachers.

It is an indistinguishable fact that the then Junior Minister with responsibility for Labour, Keith Scott, had called striking teachers uncaring and selfish during the term of the coalition. President Ali and the Minister of Education have constantly supported the teachers and treated them with dignity and respect.

They have gone beyond the call of duty sometimes to make practical adjustments to the benefit of teachers, but the teachers’ union allowed their bosses and masters to bring politics and race into their relationship.

I want to be bold enough to opine that the GTU is not being taken seriously because its current executives and General Secretary Coretta McDonald are always playing racial and opportunistic politics.

I strongly feel that the union’s executive wants this government to support their greed and self-aggrandizement. They want this PPP government, from what I understand, to support them in getting several perks and to support their intended

wrongdoings.

They do not like it when an objective person is calling it for what it looks like.

They want to drive around in a Lexus SUV and have a supermarket and auto dealership at Rose Hall.

They are not hurt by this strike in any way, but our children and teachers are hurt. They do not think or care for the teachers, but are busy spreading the opposition narratives daily and using up the teachers' union dues for their benefit.

After all, what has the teachers' union ever done for teachers in this country, except to make them protest around election time and collect dues?

I am very livid and conflicted when I examine the timing of the industrial action and the reason. The Ministry of Education never said it is not interested to meet the union, but I think one would be hard-pressed to think if they will meet now under these circumstances.

If they are interested in talking and negotiating with the ministry and the government, they will go back to GTU headquarters and call the teachers strike off.

They will achieve two things by doing that: prove it is not political and engage in the process. Collective-labour bargaining in this climate needs maturity, respect, reasonable thinking and a will to sort out issues.

It does not require politics to succeed.

The timing of the strike is suspicious and very typical of the GTU. Trust me, industrial action, in this form, will bring about the changes the teachers want to see instantly.

This looks as if it is creating the platform for the APNU+AFC to electioneer to 2025. Mark my words, it is not the first time McDonald has used the GTU politically.

Other unions that are anti-development and anti-PPP will follow suit.

I believe that our hardworking and dedicated professional teachers should not be in the sun protesting, but should benefit from proper representation and advice at the level of the GTU. Finally, I think this whole strike is unnecessary and causes an interruption in the learning process and education of the nation’s children.

This strike is illegally debilitating and the Ministry of

Education must stand strong against this strike action.

Teachers deserve more to strike when the government is doing all that it can economically and financially to make them more comfortable is not the answer.

Rome was not built in a day and financial sustainability has to be considered before granting another round of increases.

I propose the union call off the strike and recommence discussions on reaching a “fair” deal for teachers by this year's end.

While the discussions will include the GTU executives, they must not include Coretta McDonald or Mark Lyte. Other known politicians must stay away from this process.

The teachers will have regular updates which will be done in a joint statement or press conference to make sure that no misinformation or different stories are being told.

I still blame the GTU for pursuing self-interest, and partisan politics and for the unnecessary learning interruption.

Yours truly, Michael Younge

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Incoherent opinionated ramblings cannot supplant rigorous empirical analysis [Part II]

By Joel Bhagwandin, Financial Analyst

IN parts two-four of the series of op-ed articles, Ret’d Rear Admiral Dr. Gary Best (hereinafter “the author”) contends: “The budget is not geared to reduce poverty or income inequalities, nor increase wages or salaries, or better health care, the budget focuses on cost rather than adding value, that the gas-to-energy (GTE) project will not benefit Guyanese except the PPP class, that the economic policies increase income inequality, increase poverty, and restrict capital to the elite…”.

Again, as established in part I by this author, the aforementioned author failed to provide a singular piece of empirical evidence, let alone analysis to substantiate all of the assertions. This article seeks to address the author’s unsubstantiated argumentations empirically hereunder.

POVERTY, AND POVERTY REDUCTION In 1992, when the PPP/C administration assumed the reins of government as a democratically elected government―for first time since post-independence history, the economy inherited was in a bankrupt state.

Citing the World Bank’s poverty reduction strategy paper for Guyana, it was noted therein that PAHO estimated that at least 50 per cent of the population earned less than 55 per cent of the mean income in 1971.

Based on this distribution of income, it was estimated that approximately 38 per cent of the population in 1971 fell below the poverty line. Boyd estimated that the poverty level had risen to 65 per cent of the population in 1988, and by 1989, taking into account the rapid worsening of inflation (a high of 87 per cent inflation), that 75 per cent of the population had incomes below the poverty line.

The Ramprakash study in 1991 calculated that if receiving official nutritional requirements was the underlying criterion, an estimated 86 per cent of the population would fall under the poverty line.

In a flawed and plagiarised 2022 fact sheet

(established by this author), the World Bank had estimated that, based on the upper middle income poverty line of US$5.5 per day, that 48 per cent of the population are below the poverty line.

Of interest to note, the World Bank removed the flawed fact sheet, which opposition elements rely on to propagate their political narratives.

The mere fact that the Bank removed this report from their website is evidenced that the Bank acknowledged the flaws and limitations that were subsequently analytically exposed by this author, which was brought to the attention of the bank’s authorities at their local office.

Be that as it may, for the purpose of demonstration, by the World Bank’s benchmark, the Bank’s estimate is woefully inaccurate on multiple fronts. The minimum wage in Guyana is equivalent to US$286 per month/person, and the average income per person, not the per capita income metric, but the average income based on an empirical analysis conducted by this author utilising personal income tax data, is equivalent to US$500 per month/ person after taking into account the labour force participation rate (49-50 per cent). Thus, the minimum wage is 1.7x higher than the World Bank poverty line attributed to Guyana, and the average income per person is 3x higher than the World Bank’s poverty line attributable to Guyana.

Bear in mind that, it is a well-established fact that an unskilled labourer in the construction industry earns at least US$25 per day, and

a skilled labourer earns at least US$50 per day.

Consequently, the percentage of the population below the poverty line in Guyana cannot be 48 per cent. Moreover, it should be noted that the working age population (Guyana Labour Force Study (GLFS), 2017) accounts for about 70 per cent of the total population, with a labour force participation rate of 49 per cent in 2017.

Hence, a realistic estimate is more likely to be below 20-25 per cent of the population.

Suffice it to state, aside from the World Bank’s poverty line benchmark based on income, another more broad-based empirical measure to determine whether poverty in Guyana has been increasing or decreasing, would be to empirically estimate and measure households “Net Wealth” (NW).

Such an empirical analysis (utilising financial sector data and income tax data to compute the estimated net household income for the period 1990-2023) was recently

performed by this author.

To w a r d s t h i s e n d (fig.1), over the last three decades, households net income have actually grown by 303x since 1990 to reach an estimated $300 billion in 2023, representing eight per cent of GDP (24 per cent of non-oil GDP); households savings have grown by 54x to reach $364 billion in 2023, representing 9.3 per cent of GDP (30 per cent of non-oil GDP); households debt has grown by 154x to reach $176 billion, representing 4.5 per cent of GDP (14 per cent of nonoil GDP); while households Net Wealth increased by 61x since 1990 to reach an estimated $500 billion in 2023, representing 13 per cent of GDP (40 per cent of non-oil GDP).

Total households net wealth was greater than the net assets for business enterprises (1.6x) which is an estimated $309 billion at the end of 2023, consistent with households net income which represents 105 per cent of business enterprises net profits for 2023.

Interestingly, for the same period (1990-2023) overall GDP grew by 249x, reflecting a slower pace of growth in contrast to household income which grew by 303x, thereby outpacing the rate of growth in overall GDP. The increase in household net wealth is directly attributed to the PPP/C Government’s economic policies, for example, especially those such as the housing programme, and low-cost financing.

Turning to income inequality, this is typically measured by the Gini coefficient, where 0 is an indication of perfect equality and 1 is an indication of maximum inequality.

A recent inequality study was done by a Guyanese scholar, Collin Constantine (2022).

Notwithstanding, the Gini coefficient has a number of limitations, where for example it does not take into account the determinants of income and other economic conditions. For example, the determinant of income is a function of the market dynamics.

This include the level of revenue generated by firms, the total employment costs relative to revenue considering industry specific factors as well as firm specific factors from a performance point of view. Additionally, an individual’s earning capacity is relative to their level of skills, competence, experience, education, output, and overall performance.

Furthermore, the Gini coefficient does not account for the fact that, according to the GLFS study, less than five per cent of the labour force possess a tertiary level education.

This explains the large skills deficit and skills mismatch that currently permeate the labour market, thereby posing a major challenge to both the public sector and private sector firms. This, in turn, has a bearing on overall productivity and productive output in the economy.

It is for these reasons that the Government, having recognised these challenges, is investing heavily in the human resources development. For example, technical and vocational training, the scholarship programme targetting some 30,000 persons, and their commitment towards making tertiary education free by 2025. These are the types of policies and investments that will improve income.

Against these backgrounds, the burden remains upon the subject matter aforenamed author to prove that poverty is on the rise coupled with his other unsubstantiated claims, by robustly disproving the empirical analysis presented herein, with alternative academic evidence.

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Third-party option in 2025

THE search for a third party to create a minority PPP government is ongoing. I know Mr. Glen Lall has approached people in Berbice because one such person told me that. The EU Embassy in Georgetown has been meeting with some folks who want funding.

Some 2020 third parties may reappear in 2025.

I cannot see a minority PPP government in 2025 because I believe President Ali’s personality, style and politics are admired to the point where he will increase his parliamentary percentage.

I think the PNC will lose seats to the PPP in 2025 making a minority government virtually impossible.

Who thinks a third party can successfully create a minority government? People who sit in high-priced café and resplendent restaurants and debate what the Guyanese people want and those

people who do not shop at Bourda Green or stop at Juice Power on Middle Street to buy a sorrel drink.

This is the problem with anti-government critics from the diaspora. You ask Guyanese who or what is the Oil and Gas Governance Network, they don’t know and when you tell them it is a group of aging Guyanese long gone from Guyana, you get the traditional response – “why they don’t come back home.”

You identify to the Guyanese people the group that wants Guyana to stop oil production because it is harmful to the environment and you describe the financial status of these people, you get the traditional response – “middle class people whose bread is well buttered.”

The point is the descriptions about those groups turn people off and come election time it will be easy

pickings for the PPP. Imagine someone as persuasive as Anil Nandlall addressing a large election meeting at a street corner and he describes the financial status of these middle class folks who want a third party, and he tells his listeners that these people want to stop income from oil. How you think they will react?

The General-Secretary of ANUG, Mr. Timothy Jonas wants ANUG to position itself to create a minority government. Mr. Jonas is a nice person that means well but Mr. Jonas’s journey into politics began in 2020 and it is too short a time for him to understand how Guyanese in general feel about politics. I don’t think he does.

Mr. Jonas has to understand that it is easy to make pronouncements on a talk show and write letters to the newspapers but when the campaign starts that is

where you are tested. It is in the street arena where gloves are off that you win and lose votes. One negative revelation announced at a public meeting and social media picks it up, and that candidate is in trouble.

Mr. Jonas may not know this but he jeapordizes his party’s electoral prospects through his association with the Stabroek News (SN).

Mr. Jonas is on the board of directors of SN and he is yet to name the other members of the board.

All Mr. Nandlall, in his own inimitable style, has to do is read selected parts of many SN editorials to the gathering that are racist and downright culturally insulting to the people of this country and Mr. Jonas gets into trouble immediately.

Twice Mr. Jonas has referred to the Chronicle as a rag but refuses to see his own paper of having the same sin

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

that he accuses other newspapers of having. A newspaper that is supposed to be independent referred to this columnist as a “PPP lapdog.”

The same newspaper refused to carry the letters of presidential adviser, Professor Randolph Persaud, because it says he criticises civil society groups.

When these irregularities are broadcasted on the campaign trail, does Mr. Jonas think ANUG will not be devastated, and that voters will just ignore these shortcomings of Mr. Jonas. It is easy to think that you are wining hearts and minds when you accuse the government of using the Natural Resource Fund for use of big spending.

But it is a different ball game when the PPP’s sharp-shooters take to the campaign trail and show

the Guyanese people how the money was spent that benefitted the nation. You read the online comments at the bottom of the letters of the Stabroek News and those bigoted, racist people feel they are scoring points against the government.

But the society learns when PPP leaders take to the campaign trail and point out that all, not most, but all of those comments are from anonymous people who do not have even an ounce of integrity to identify themselves and are just lost souls looking for psychological survival.

Even if the most dynamic third party emerges in 2025, it will be consigned to the dustbin because their skeletons in the closet will run into millions.

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Guyana, EU hold constructive, successful partnership dialogue - commit to enhance collaboration in key areas of development

THE Guyana-European Union (EU) Partnership Dialogue was convened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on February 6, 2024.

According to information from the EU, Guyana’s delegation was led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, and included senior officials of the ministry.

The European Union delegation was led by René van Nes, Ambassador, Head of the European Union Delegation to Guyana, and included Nicolas de Lacoste, French Ambassador to Suriname and Guyana; Jean-

Jacques Forte, Chargé d’Affaires of the French Diplomatic Office in Guyana; Bianca Hettinga, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Suriname, and other officials from the European Union Headquarters and Delegation.

Aligned with the dialogue’s objective of exchanging information and fostering mutual understanding, both sides engaged in open and constructive discussions on areas of common interest at bilateral, regional and international levels, including on new challenges in international settings.

They reaffirmed their commitment to the continuation and

further enhancement of collaboration between Guyana and the European Union.

Both sides acknowledged the transition from the Cotonou Partnership Agreement, which ended on December 31, 2023, and discussed Guyana’s accession to its successor - the Samoa Agreement.

Minister Hugh Todd underscored the importance of the relationship between the European Union and Guyana, and reiterated Guyana’s unwavering commitment to enhancing collaboration in the areas of climate change, energy, security, people-to-people ties, and trade.

He also noted the European

Union’s pivotal role as a key developmental partner for Guyana.

Ambassador Van Nes looked back to 2023 as a meaningful year for the EU-Caribbean and the bilateral relations between the EU and Guyana.

He acknowledged Guyana’s political role, in the region and at global level, as well as the country’s sustained economic growth. He stressed the European Union’s commitment to human rights, democracy, and respect for the rule of law, and commended Guyana’s engagement in this regard.

Both sides agreed that increased interaction between companies from Guyana and

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd and EU Ambassador to Guyana, René van Nes

the European Union should be encouraged. In this context, Ambassador van Nes referred to the EU Economic Mission to Guyana in November 2023, and announced a follow-up before the end of the year.

Minister Todd and Ambassador van Nes further agreed that the opportunity should be explored to seek new areas of cooperation and to collaborate under the European Union’s Global Gateway Investment

Agenda, which focuses on forest management, health, water management and renewable energy, as well as connectivity.

They agreed that the dialogue set the tone for continued collaboration at all levels in areas of mutual interest and for building on the existing cooperation between Guyana and the European Union. The next round of the dialogue should be scheduled before the end of 2024.

Gov’t seeking international observers for 2025 elections

By Naomi Parris

THE European Union (EU) Ambassador to Guyana, René Van Nes, on Thursday, disclosed that a request has been made by the Government of Guyana for the EU Election Observer Mission to return for the country’s Regional and General Elections slated for 2025.

The EU Ambassador told local journalist that the request was oral but an official written request is expected soon.

“The government has now indicated its very keen interest to have another EU Election Observation Mission for the general elections of 2025,” the EU Ambassador said.

Elections are expected to be held November of that year.

“EU will look favourably at

It was only after the legal challenges and international intervention that a national recount of all votes cast was convened and the figures showed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) received 233,336 votes, while the APNU+AFC Coalition got 217,920 votes.

Though leaving Guyana on March 20, 2020, because of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, prior to the climax and conclusion of the political impasse, the EU’s EOM, led by Chief Observer, Urmas Paet, followed the series of events remotely and was able to determine that such occurrences could only be prevented by legislative and technical electoral reforms.

“It is obvious that what happened last year [2020] should not happen again… I guess some changes at least in legislation

that expression of interest as soon as we have the paperwork to look at that,” he added.

The last EU Election Observer Mission (EOM) had emphasised the importance of avoiding a recurrence of the destabilising five-month impasse, which followed the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections by implementing sweeping electoral reforms.

Guyanese, after casting their votes on March 2, 2020, had to endure an unimaginable wait for the results of the General and Regional Elections, as they witnessed alleged unlawful acts and a slew of legal challenges.

In this time, the patience of the electorate was tested, as electors observed what was described as attempts by the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition to rip the democratic fabric of the nation, with “delay tactics” which were openly criticised by a wide section of society.

concerning elections and then some of the technical practices should increase the possibility that it will not happen again,” Paet had said.

Some of the possible reforms and amendments, which Guyana could adopt were listed among the 26 recommendations outlined by the EU’s EOM in its final report on Guyana’s elections, which was issued on June 5, 2020.

The mission had returned in 2023, and at that time several aspects of EU priority recommendations were implemented.

These included the amendments to Representation of the People Act (ROPA), the National Registration Act, and the tabling of the Data Protection Bill.

Of the 26 recommendations listed in the 2020 final report, eight were classified as priority areas. Of these eight, significant progress has been made in four of the areas, with two being fully implemented through provisions

in amendments made last year to ROPA and the NRA. The fully implemented recommendation dealt with clear tabulation. This was a priority recommendation which called for increased transparency in the result process, namely to publish the Statement of Polls as soon as possible on the Guyana Elections

Commission (GEOCM) website.

This was addressed with a new law which requires Returning Officers to immediately on receipt of the SOPs make them publicly available on the GECOM website.

Other recommendations which have been partially addressed include increasing the continuous

voter registration aspect.

This was addressed by the National Registration Amendment Act which extends the period during which people can register for the first time or make changes. According to the new provision, GECOM offices are open to the public ten months per year.

Referencing the recommendations that have since been addressed, Ambassador Van Nes acknowledged the progress made thus far and a notable willingness to work on implementing the recommendations.

“The government is taking a number of recommendations forward forcefully,” he added.

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EU assisting Guyana to establish regulations for pharmaceutical manufacturing

By Naomi Parris

THE Government of Guyana has touted plans to transform the country’s healthcare sector and already partners have begun engagements to assist in the sector’s advancements, particularly in the area of local manufacturing of vaccines and other pharmaceuticals.

The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Guyana, Rene Van Nes, on Thursday, told local journalists that the EU will

assist Guyana and Barbados to establish the regulation needed to manufacture pharmaceuticals.

“After COVID the realisation was very clear that yes, you can help these countries by giving them the vaccines, but it's even better to help them with setting up their own production facility so that they can make their own vaccines,” the EU Ambassador said.

In 2023, the EU increased its support for vaccine production in Rwanda. The EU part-

nered with the Central African state to strengthen the local ecosystem for vaccines and medicines manufacturing and health resilience which saw the opening the first BioNTech Africa manufacturing site in Kigali, Rwanda.

It was later reported that Guyana, Barbados and Rwanda were examining a procurement mechanism to manufacture vaccines in the Caribbean.

The Government of Guyana has been making massive invest-

ments and partnering with several international organisations to advance its healthcare delivery.

Currently, several massive infrastructural projects, which include the building out of new hospitals and medical training facilities, are ongoing.

“It fits with bigger picture, the bigger policy objective of the government to really boost its health sector,” the EU Ambassador said, adding: “What we see here are real potential in the sector and we think that we can do something together here …the EU and Guyana can work together in this way that we can add value to what is happening in the health sector.”

Just recently, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali had reiterated the government’s intention and seriousness to pursue a manufacturing plant for pharmaceuticals and a modern health system.

“We are very serious about the establishment of a vaccine manufacturing facility in Guyana, to service the entire LAC [Latin America and the Caribbean] region,” President Ali said at the weekend, while commissioning a state-of-the-art pathology lab at the Georgetown

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Rene Van Nes

Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

The Head of State, at that time, disclosed that Guyana was working with several partners.

“Cuba has reached out to us to partner in this area of vaccine development and research.

So, this is another piece of the puzzle that will migrate our healthcare system to a platform in which it will be second to none,” Dr Ali said.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health, he related, has been exploring the introduction of new and advanced services which include the introduction of a brachytherapy treatment centre which will see improved treatments for cancers.

Investments are also being made to the delivery of healthcare at the country’s premier referral hospital.

“We are targetting 25 additional digital x-rays this year. In the regional and sub-regional

facilities, definitely at all the new facilities that are coming on stream including Lethem, Linden, and Bartica, we will have CT scans installed,” the Head of State said.

While the infrastructure within the sector is being upgraded, discussions have already begun to improve the human resources.

Discussions have begun between the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Government of Guyana for the establishment of a medical school in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six. “With investments that we’re making, I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that our human resources asset in the healthcare system is quickly becoming world-class assets. We cannot deliver world-class healthcare here without upping our game,” the President posited.

Army Head to take on new ‘Chief of Defence’ title from next year - President Ali announces

By Clestine Juan MARKING a new era for Guyana's military structure, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali has announced that the title of the head of the army will be changed to Chief of Defence starting next year.

The Head of State was at the time addressing the opening of the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) Annual Officers’ Conference at Camp Base Ayanganna on Thursday.

“This will be the last Officers conference (that) the term Chief-of-Staff will be used,” President Ali stated, highlighting a strategic shift intended to align with regional and international military structures.

“So, this year’s conference will see the final use of the designation Chief-of-Staff," he added, underscoring the historical significance of the change.

The title of Chief-of-Staff has been used for decades to denote the head of the army.

Brigadier Omar Khan was appointed as the GDF Chiefof-Staff by President Ali last year, a role he combines with leading the National Intelligence and Security Agency

Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Omar Khan (N.I.S.A).

Established in 1965, the GDF plays a pivotal role in the nation, not just in defence but also in supporting Guyanese communities through various means such as medical emergency flights and infrastructural projects like road and airstrip construction by its Engineering Corps.

The Force prides itself on voluntary enlistment, rigorous training programmes within its schools, and prestigious inter-

national training for its officers at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and Britannia Royal Naval College.

This move to retitle the army head as Chief of Defence is part of the government's vision for institutional restructuring within the GDF. It reflects the People’s Progressive Party (PPP)-led government’s modernisation effort to enhance the force's alignment with global military standards and practices.

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‘Sky High’ to connect Guyana-Dominican Republic with weekly flights from February 18 SKY High Aviation Services will launch three weekly flights connecting the Dominican Republic with Guyana, starting February 18, 2024.

According to a press release from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), this exciting new service will provide convenient and affordable travel options for business and leisure passengers.

The new routes, operated by a comfortable Embraer 190 with 97 seats (nine business class, 88 economy class), will offer seamless connections between Santo Domingo's Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) and CJIA. This enhanced connectivity is expected to boost tourism, trade, and investment between

the two nations, offering exciting opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth.

"We are thrilled to welcome Sky High Aviation Services to Guyana's aviation landscape," said Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works.

He added: "This new route aligns with our vision of fostering regional integration and creating a robust air transportation network. We are confident it will significantly contribute to increased tourism, trade, and investment, further propelling Guyana's development."

Sanjeev Datadin, Chairman of the CJIA Board of Directors, echoed the minister's enthusiasm, noting: "The addition of Sky High Aviation Services

to CJIA's portfolio of airlines demonstrates the growing confidence in Guyana's aviation industry.

“This new route will provide passengers with more travel options, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activity within the region."

Sky High Aviation Services is a Dominican Republic-based airline offering scheduled passenger and cargo services across the Caribbean, Venezuela, and the United States. The current route network includes flights to Miami, Caracas, Maracaibo, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Antigua, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, Anguilla, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guyana, Santiago and

Sky High Aviation Services will launch three weekly flights connecting the Dominican Republic with Guyana, starting February 18, 2024 Havana Cuba, among other destinations.

With a focus on safety, reliability, and exceptional customer service, Sky High is committed to connecting people and cultures while contributing to the economic development of the regions it serves.

Transformative progress being made in education sector – teachers says

DURING recent discussions surrounding the Guyana Teachers' Union (GTU)-led strike, prominent figures within the educational sector have voiced their perspectives, offering a nuanced view of the advancements in education under the current People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government.

Headmaster of the Essequibo Islands Secondary School, Sheikh Ahmad, and Headmistress of The Bishops’ High School, Shandrina Welcome-Lee, during a recent sitdown that was aired on NCN, provided deep insight into the transformative changes that have taken place in the education system, contrasting it with previous administrations.

Ahmad, drawing from his 26-year career and never having participated in a strike, underscored his commitment to his students and the positive developments in his compensation, which will see a significant increase in 2024.

“My net take home is 259,000...an increase of over 42,000...about 19%...the largest single increase in my entire career,” Ahmad stated, highlighting the government's attention to teachers’ welfare and the substantial improvements in salary and benefits.

He also pointed out the lack of support from GTU during the COVID-19 pandemic, contrasting it with the proactive interventions by the Ministry of Education, which he believes have been pivotal in sustaining the educational momentum during challenging times.

Welcome-Lee echoed Ahmad's sentiments, highlighting the principle of personal choice and the substantial advancements made by the ministry to support teachers and enhance the learning environment.

She specifically mentioned the introduction of cash grants, which have empowered teachers to purchase essential materials

Essequibo Islands Secondary School Headmaster Sheikh Ahmad and Headmistress of The Bishops’ High School Shandrina Welcome-Lee addressing the Guyana Teachers Union’s illegal strike during a sit-down recently aired by NCN for their classrooms, thereby significantly improving the quality of education.

“Our classrooms are enhanced, and the delivery of education has been enhanced because of the cash grants,” she remarked, underscoring the tangible benefits of government policies on the ground.

Both educators highlighted several key initiatives by the PPP/C government that have directly impacted the efficiency and effectiveness of teaching in Guyana.

The simplification of administrative tasks, such as the transition from daily to weekly lesson plans, has been particularly beneficial. Ahmad detailed the reduction in paperwork, noting, “We remove a lot of record-oriented systems...let's give the teachers the time to deliver in the classrooms” he said explained that this approach has allowed teachers to focus more on teaching and less on bureaucratic requirements.”

Furthermore, the PPP/C's innovative approach to school funding, allowing for tailored purchases to meet specific needs, has been praised. Ahmad

described this strategy as “one of the most brilliant ideas,” enabling schools to produce better results by addressing their unique challenges.

ADVANCEMENTS IN EDUCATION Under the PPP/C government, there has been a notable emphasis on infrastructure upgrades and technological integration, with significant improvements in internet access, computer labs, and the use of cloud storage for educational resources.

These advancements have facilitated a more dynamic and interactive learning environment, preparing students for the demands of the modern world.

Ahmad and Welcome-Lee both illustrated a clear picture of progress in the education sector under the PPP/C, marked by increased support for teachers, enhanced learning environments, and a forward-thinking approach to education policy.

This year, government has unleashed an unparalleled wave of investments aimed at transforming the educational landscape into one of a world-class

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standard.

With a visionary allocation of $135.2 billion in 2024, following a substantial $105 billion expenditure the previous year, the commitment to nurturing a vibrant educational ecosystem is unmistakable.

This comprehensive strategy encompasses a wide array of initiatives designed to make education accessible and enriching for students at all levels, from nursery to tertiary education.

Central to this educational renaissance is the extensive use of technology and media to bridge learning gaps.

Additionally, the Ministry of Education has ingenious-

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GTU not credible, teachers being misled – VP Jagdeo - says union has not submitted financial reports to Auditor General since 1989, opposition opportunistically supporting strike

By Naomi Parris VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has said that a significant percentage of Guyana’s first $1 trillion budget is allocated to improving the education sector, providing not only better learning environments for children but also a “comfortable working” environment for teachers.

The VP’s comments came on day four of ongoing industrial action by some teachers across the country, who are lobbying for salary adjustments to be made for educators.

The strike action began on Monday, which saw educators taking to the city streets, led by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU).

Over the past few days picketing action has been consistent outside the Ministry of Education’s head office at Brickdam, Georgetown. And while the union has been persistent in its calls for increased wages, Jagdeo said almost 10 per cent of this year’s budget caters to the education sector, with focus being placed on better working conditions for teachers and increased training opportunities.

“Ultimately, it is about the students, the education of our children, teachers are just one component of this, an important component and we appreciate the work that teachers have been doing across the country,”

the Vice-President said at his weekly news conference held on Thursday.

He noted that monies have been allocated for the rehabilitation of schools and the construction of new ones, and said that this ensures better facilities are provided for children and teachers alike.

“Who would benefit from this? People who go to schools, our children and our teachers.

They would have better facilities in schools, so teachers could [be] more comfortable working [in] environment and our children can have better learning environments.”

Approximately $135 billion dollars was announced for the education sector in this year’s fiscal package.

In fact, the Vice-President noted that the government now is investing more into the education sector.

To further explain this, he said the education sector had received $52. 7 billion from the A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration in 2019.

That sum divided by the total number of students in the country, equates to $310,000 or $25,800 per child every year and month, respectively.

Using the same calculation to highlight the scope of investments being made today, he explained that government in 2024 is spending $125 bil-

lion or $57, 870 per child each month and $694,000 annually, after deducting $8 billion for the University of Guyana and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarships.

“That represents the commitment by our government to educating our children,” Dr. Jagdeo said. “It is more than double than what the APNU spent.”

INVESTMENTS Furthermore, it was pointed out that the government has been investing heavily to ensure that more teachers are trained.

He explained that with 14,000 teachers on the payroll, there is one teacher for every 23 children when compared to one teacher for every 12.6 children in 2012.

And the government in the past three years has hired more than 2,000 new educators and with more teachers, more is being spent in salaries although educators are tending to smaller classrooms.

What is worrying though, according to the Vice-President, is the percentage of absentees that has been cited.

He disclosed that on a daily basis, only about 70 per cent of the nation’s teachers report to work. This, he emphasized, has to be investigated.

He highlighted the increasing graduation output of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) and the investments being made to ensure

Some teachers across the country have been participating in strike action since Monday (Delano Williams photo) that qualified teachers are in the classroom. With this, he said, graduate teachers are getting higher wages that before.

“Under this government alone, graduate teachers have gotten 33-35 per cent increase since we got into office,” Jagdeo said.

He explained that the objective has been to ensure that more teachers go into the skilled category.

“There is [sic] massive amounts of money in the budget for training of teachers,” he added.

‘GTU NOT CREDIBLE’ Shifting his attention to the GTU, he noted that the union’s current state of affairs makes the body “not credible.”

According to the Vice-President, the union has not submitted an audit report since 1989 or a financial statement since 2004.

These discrepancies could see the union being convicted and fined by the courts.

“This is not a credible body anymore…when people argue for collective bargaining they must be accountable.”

In noting that the opposition has been “opportunistically” supporting the strike, he called out the union’s General Secretary Coreeta McDonald, who is also an opposition Member of Parliament.

McDonald has for the past four days been at the forefront of the picketing exercise.

On Monday, the union leader had said that if wages are deducted from teachers who participated in the industrial action, the body has been engaged by ‘corporate sponsors’ to reimburse teachers.

H o w e v e r, J a g d e o o n Thursday urged teachers to scrutinise the union on its

accountability and explain how these wages will be reimbursed.

According to the GTU, more than 50 per cent of teachers are participating in the strike.

Jagdeo explained that if 50 per cent of the country’s educators are to be paid, that would amount to more than $300 million.

He noted that teachers should press the union about the mechanism that will be in place to reimburse them, given the body’s lack of transparency over the years.

“How do they pay you?

By cheque or cash? Who do they pay the money for?

How do we know it is not funnelled to people’s pockets? It’s so not transparent and I’m surprised no one has pressed them on this,” he said.

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‘Good neighbourliness is not merely a diplomatic nicety’ - says President Ali - reaffirms Guyana’s ‘vigilance’, readiness to defend sovereignty

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana's commitment to “good neighbourliness” as a cornerstone of its foreign policy and dedication to peaceful resolution, while remaining vigilant against any threats to its sovereignty.

The Head of State was at the time addressing the opening of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Annual Officers’ Conference at Base Camp Ayanganna, on Thursday, which is being held under the theme, “Transforming to better confront present and future challenges, by enhancing awareness, adaptability and agility capabilities.”

Guyana has been actively working with its international partners, a major one being the United States, to boost its defence and diplomatic capabilities to respond to security threats and also

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali contribute to broader regional security.

“Good neighbourliness is not merely a diplomatic nicety; it is a pragmatic approach to addressing shared challenges, promoting regional integration, and enhancing the well-being of all our citizens through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for

Transformative progress...

FROM PAGE 13 ly created platforms such as the Guyana Learning Channel which is available on television and YouTube, alongside the innovative ‘EDPal’ app and EdYou FM radio station.

These platforms ensure that critical content, especially for pivotal examinations like the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), is readily accessible to all students.

Further elevating the infrastructure that underpins educational delivery, the government has earmarked substantial funds for the construction and renovation of educational facilities across the country.

A staggering $28.7 billion is allocated for enhancing schools and educational facilities, with specific allocations for primary ($3.1 billion), secondary ($16 billion), and nursery ($3 billion) institutions. These infrastructural advancements promise to provide conducive learning environments that foster academic excellence.

Additionally, the government has continued to demonstrate its support for students

and families through the distribution of 'Because We Care' and Uniform cash grants, alongside the innovative classroom grants initiative, underscoring a holistic approach to educational support.

The school feeding programme, set to benefit some 126,000 children, and the significant investment in the University of Guyana and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme, further illustrate the comprehensive measures being undertaken to ensure that every child and young adult in Guyana has the opportunity to thrive academically.

The tangible impacts of these investments are already being felt across the nation.

From the coastland to the hinterland regions, students are benefitting from enhanced nutritional support through juice, biscuits, hot meals, and breakfast provisions.

The 'Because We Care' cash grant, now at $40,000 per child annually, together with the historic graduation of 1,796 teachers from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) in 2023, marks a significant milestone in Guyana's journey towards educational excellence.

each other's sovereignty," President Ali stated while reflecting on the principles guiding Guyana's stance in its ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.

This statement comes after a period of heightened tensions last December, when Venezuela

increased its aggressive claims to Guyana's Essequibo region which is known for its rich reserves of gold, timber, and other natural resources.

Venezuela's demands for foreign companies to withdraw from Guyana’s territory have sparked in-

ternational concern and led to diplomatic interventions by CARICOM and CELAC. A significant breakthrough was achieved during a meeting between President Ali and Venezuela's President, Nicolas Maduro, held at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Facilitated by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and observed by representatives from Brazil, CARICOM, and the UN, the dialogue resulted in the "Argyle Declaration."

This 11-point agreement reaffirms both nations' commitment to peace and establishes that the substantive case regarding the border controversy will be determined by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

President Ali has reaffirmed that Guyana remains, “100 percent com-

mitted to this process and it is an unwavering position.”

“We must never be found blinking, but ever ready to deter and resist any threat to our country,” President Ali proclaimed, highlighting Guyana's resolve to defend its territorial integrity while maintaining a commitment to international law and peaceful dispute resolution.

The Head of State explained that Guyana's steadfast approach to the dispute, prioritising diplomatic channels and international legal frameworks, signals a deep commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and peaceful coexistence.

The "Argyle Declaration" serves as a testament to the potential for dialogue and cooperation in resolving complex international disputes.

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Jumo celebrating 34 years in music with his ‘Jumo and Friends’ concert tomorrow

CELEBRATING 34 years in the music business, Jumo says he still gets nervous at times to go on stage, but going out there and making sure the performance is nothing but excellent helps him counteract such nervousness. And this is precisely what he has in mind – an unforgettable performance this weekend at his ‘Jumo and Friends’ concert.

Even though the party, at Malteenoes Sports Complex, is to celebrate his decades in the industry both locally and internationally, Jumo wants to use

the event to create a platform for artistes, old and new, and to let it serve as a jump start event for ‘Mash’ later this month.

The event which will be held on Saturday, February 10, “is a celebration of my work, achievements, struggles, and being here still pushing on,” Jumo shared with Buzz this week.

Aside from Jumo, it will feature Squid, Lady T, Nesta Nelson, Calvin Burnett, Kwasi Ace, Vanilla, Stephen Ramphal, Castro Brothers, Big Red, Lil Million, CKush, Mark Batson, TP Kill, Brandon Harding, Vin-

tayge, Fame Band, Wifi, and Freedom Boss.

Dubbed ‘Rubber Waist’ due to his pulsating performances on stage over the years, Jumo said even though his career has been successful, there were challenges and struggles. However, he managed to learn a lot from them over the years.

“Being with so many bands in Guyana; to be able to be here still, it should be a little easier, but at times it gets tougher as you climb,” he expressed, adding, “For 34 years, music has been my bread; everything to

me, and that is why I work so hard at it because it’s my life. It saved me from doing so many other things…”

Believe it or not, he says his biggest challenge was having to overcome fear.

“I was a very shy person and I was always scared that people won’t like me when I started to perform. I used to always be afraid. Even to this day, at times, before I go on that stage, I am a nervous wreck.

I am still nervous. I can’t feel my knees, hands; they become numb. That’s why I always want to go up there each time and defeat that fear with excellent performances.”

Jumo is hoping to be able to work along with authority figures to help his fellow artistes because he knows exactly what

they need, owing to the wealth of experience he has gained.

“I am hoping that I can create platforms using my expertise and experiences. I’ve been in it for many years and have a lot of experience. I know what is lacking and I know what can be done to further help our artistes.”

More ‘staple’ events are needed, along with platforms to build the artistes and things like copyright laws which can facilitate a structured art form and music industry. “I am willing to work and lend my expertise and contributions of my talent and experience to the cause because it is lacking and our artistes are frustrated many times.”

Just last month, the singing sensation launched ‘Mash Junction’ at his 592 Club at Lot 23 John and Norton Streets,

Jumo ‘Rubberwaist’ Primo Georgetown - an ingenious plan to keep the vibes and traditions of ‘Mash’ alive.

Jumo feels strongly that not enough is being done to celebrate Mashramani the way it was in previous years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

14 selected as finalists for ‘Dancehall Monarch’ competition

FOURTEEN persons have been given a shot at being named Guyana’s first ‘Dancehall Monarch,’ after they were selected as finalists for the competition which is set for February 18, 2024, at the 1823 Monument, Kitty Seawall, Georgetown.

Alabama, YoungVilla, Carlvin Burnette, Lady T, Chan Dan, Fame A, Diamond Ras, Shemar Gray, Kautic, Wezzle, Bully Bad, Mattick Queen, Gabyluv, and duo Karizzam and Annada, will be performing in front of what is expected to be a sizeable crowd.

The addition of this new

competition to the 2024 Mashramani calendar of events, is the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s plan to evolve and enrich the festival, which is an important and unique Guyanese product.

In a January 11, 2024 article in the Daily Chronicle, the ministry’s Director of National Events, Andrew Tyndall, told the media that more can be expected for Mashramani 2024.

He explained that the ministry has added Dancehall to the list of categories for its annual Soca Monarch competition, which is designed

to spotlight the diversity of musical talent in Guyana.

Moreover, persons can vote for their favourite artiste in the people’s choice contest by liking and following the ministry’s Facebook page and sharing their favourite artiste’s song. The song with the most shares in each category wins.

These categories are: Soca Monarch, Calypso Monarch, Chutney Monarch, and Dancehall Monarch.

For more information on this year’s Mashramani activities, persons can visit the ministry’s social media pages.

LA turns out for Marley movie remiere

HOLLYWOOD threw a big birthday party for Bob Marley on February 6 with the release of his biopic at Regency Village Theatre in Los Angeles. A swell of A-listers turned out to see Bob Marley: One Love, which stars British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir as the reggae legend.

Ben-Adir walked the red carpet along with members of the Marley family, including Marley’s eldest son Ziggy and his wife Orly; Island Records founder Chris Blackwell; Stevie Wonder; Shaggy; Kelly Rowland; and Brad Pitt, the film’s executive producer.

Wayne Jobson, a close friend of Blackwell’s, also attended the ritzy event.

He described the movie as, “Amazing! I love the film.”

Filmed in London and Kingston, Bob Marley: One Love is directed by American Reinaldo Marcus Green.

It tracks Marley’s life from December 1976 when he was shot in Kingston, to his self-imposed exile in London in 1977, and early 1978 when he returned to Jamaica for the One Love Peace Concert.

He died of cancer at age 36 in May 1981.

Jobson believes the producers did a good job capturing that dramatic period of the superstar’s life perfectly.

“Ziggy Marley said the most important thing about the film is the message. It shows Bob’s turmoil, having

From left: Chris Blackwell, Jon Phillips, who manages Stephen Marley; and Wayne Jobson at the Marley movie premiere in Los Angeles.

being rejected by his father and abandoned in Trench Town, and all the struggles that he went through, yet still ending up filled with love and spreading it around the planet. It shows Bob’s spiritual side that lifted him to prophet-like status worldwide but also that he was still a human. The scene where he beats up his manager, Don Taylor, shows that he still had a rough side. Even though the Marley family produced the film, they did not pull any punches, and show the fights with Rita when she told him, ‘I knew you from you had one shirt!’

”Jobson told the Jamaica Observer.

Bob Marley: One Love reportedly cost Paramount Pictures over US$100 million to produce.

It has several Jamaicans in minor roles, including Hector Lewis as Wailers drummer Carlton Barrett and Naomi Cowan as Marcia Griffiths, a member of The I Three, Marley’s harmony group.

The movie, which had its Jamaican premiere at Carib Cinema on January 23, opens worldwide on February 14. (Jamaica Observer)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Friday February 09, 2024) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) AUST won by eight wickets (2) Xavier Bartlett (AUST) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the recent WI/AUST ODI series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Series?

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Horner faces Internal hearing today (BBC) - The future of the Red Bull Formula 1 team is in the spotlight as their boss Christian Horner faces an internal

hearing on Friday into a complaint of inappropriate behaviour.

The 50-year-old, who has led Red Bull Racing

since its founding in 2005, will be quizzed by an independent lawyer on the complaint.

Parent company Red

Bull Gmbh, based near Salzburg in Austria, said on Monday that it is taking the allegations against Horner "extremely seri-

hearing on Friday goes, major questions now revolve around Red Bull.

If Horner is removed from his position, either

F1 - like no-one else in the sport's history.

Red Bull have managed to set up a structure around Newey that max-

Christian Horner has been Red Bull team principal since they first started on the F1 grid in 2005 ously."

The team has not confirmed the nature of the complaint made against Horner but BBC Sport understands the claims relate to an allegation of inappropriate and controlling behaviour.

Horner has denied the allegations in a comment to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, external as well as inside an F1 Commission meeting of team bosses, governing body the FIA and commercial rights holders F1 earlier this week.

Horner's future has been the subject of intense speculation in the world of F1 in the days since the allegations emerged on Monday.

Many insiders who have discussed the situation with BBC Sport do not expect him to survive in his role.

However, Horner is a powerful and influential man, both inside Red Bull and within F1, and it remains to be seen whether this will lead to his downfall.

Whichever way the

by being sacked or resigning, sources say he would be replaced by an executive from the Austrian side of Red Bull.

Could that be Oliver Mintzlaff, former head of RB Leipzig football team and, since co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz's death in October 2022, chief executive officer of corporate projects with oversight of F1?

The Newey question Horner has done an excellent job turning Red Bull into a winning machine, which last year produced the most dominant season in F1 history, taking victories in 21 of the 22 races among an avalanche of new records.

But to suggest he was singlehandedly responsible for their success would be to misunderstand Red Bull.

The team's main secret is chief technical officer Adrian Newey, to many minds the greatest design engineer F1 has ever seen.

The 65-year-old is a unique talent with a vision for aerodynamics - the key science behind success in

imises his creative talents while removing from him the areas in which he is either less interested or less skilled. Before that, he was famously bogged down by the complicated 'matrix' management structure imposed on him at his former team McLaren.

Success in F1 is never down to one person, but if you were forced to pick a single name as the decisive influence at Red Bull, it would without any question be Newey.

It is not a given that Newey would be discomforted by Horner's departure. They may share an extreme level of competitiveness but they are very different characters, Newey's diffident nature contrasting with Horner's front-foot aggression.

Nevertheless, the two are closely connected.

It was former F1 driver David Coulthard who convinced Horner that Newey was the key to success when he joined Red Bull from McLaren for their debut season 19 years ago.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Barbados motor racing fraternity mourns loss of Bourne

CMC – Motor racing officials and fans described the death of rally champion Paul Bourne as a “huge loss” for the sport.

The two-time winner of the prestigious Barbados Rally and former competition secretary of the Barbados Rally Club died on Wednesday after a battle with cancer.

He was 59.

Bourne was one of the island’s most formidable and most popular competitors for more than two decades until he stepped away from active motor racing about a decade ago.

“The passing of Paul Bourne is a huge and very sad loss,” public relation officer of the BRC, Neil Barnard said. “He was an intense competitor and had a marked impact on island – and indeed regional – motorsport.

“Even though he had retired from active competition, he had built such a passionate fan base that he still would create a buzz when he turned up to spectate at events. His energy was infectious. A remarkable man.”

Bourne earned his nickname, “The Surfer” on the sea as both a competitor

and organiser of sailing and surfing events in the island before he arrived in motor sport in the late 1980s, first with an Austin Maestro, then a Peugeot 205 GTi. From the early days of the all-stage rally, Bourne was a regular podium finisher, and he claimed his first win in 2003 during a successful partnership with co-driver Louis Venezia.

It was the first win for a world rally car (WRC), and it might have come the previous year, when his Subaru Impreza became the island’s first resident WRC, but for

a massive accident on the opening stage.

Bourne was a regular winner of rallies and speed events in the island, and he won his class in the local driver’s championship eight times between 2002 and 2012.

He was also active across the island’s other motoring clubs and disciplines, being very competitive in rally sprints in the early days of

the Vaucluse Raceway and a circuit racing group champion at the island’s prime motor racing facility at Bushy Park.

Bourne also made a name for himself outside of Barbados, finishing third in Rally Jamaica in 2003 and won Rally Trinidad the following year before he went on to win his second Rally Barbados in 2007.

Behind the scenes, he

was ever-present at motor sport events ins the island, advising and encouraging emerging drivers, returned to his role of president of the Barbados Surfing Association six years ago, while developing a popular biodynamic farm, nature sanctuary, and tourist attraction in the eastern parish of St Joseph.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

Petra organisation releases automatic qualifiers for MILO 2024 Santa Rosa Secondary are the defending MILO champions

THERE are thirteen spots up for grabs in the main draw of the 2024 Milo Schools U-18 football championship.

Coordinator of the tournament, the Petra organization, released, on Thursday, the eleven automatic qualifiers for the tournament.

The defending champion, Santa Rosa Secondary and last year’s runner-up, Chase Academy, have been automatically selected along with third place, Carmel Secondary and fourth place, Mackenzie High School.

Marian Academy, President’s College,

West Ruimveldt Secondary, Queen’s College, Charlestown Secondary, Dolphin Secondary and Bartica Secondary have also made the cut.

Meanwhile, according to Co-Director of the Petra organisation, Troy Mendonca, the remaining 13 spots will be decided via an elimination method.

The fixtures will be released shortly.

The 10th edition of the prestigious schools’ U-18 football championship was launched earlier this week Expected to start on February 18, at both

THE Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), will host an academy meet on Saturday, February 10, from 10:00 hours at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary.

According to a release from the AAG, teams are expected from Linden, New Amsterdam, West Berbice, East Bank and East Coast Demerara, along with Georgetown.

The meet caters

to athletes ages six to twelve, and the aim is to “steer them in the right direction,” the AAG explained.

Athletics is one of the 12 core sports identified to benefit from the National Sports Academy Programme.

Meanwhile, the AAG also informed that February 17 and 18 at the National Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara, will be the last trials to select the country’s team for the CARIFTA Games, which

the NIS and Ministry of Education grounds, the 10th edition of the tournament will feature 24 teams in round-robin knockout action.

The organisers are planning to have the final aired on regional television network, Sportsmax.

The winner of the tournament will guarantee their school $300,000 towards a project or equipment of their choice while second, third and fourth places will cart off 200,000, 100,000 and 75,000 respectively.

AAG to host Academy meet on February 10

are set for March 30 – April 1 in Grenada.

Thus far Tianna Springer (400m & 200m), Athaleya Hinckson (100m), Duel Europe (Long Jump), Attoya Harvey (1500m & 800m), Kaidon Persaud (400m & 800m), Javon Roberts (800m), Ezekiel Newton (100m & 200m), Charissa December (High Jump), Ryan Joseph (High Jump), and Jaheel Cornette (200m) have booked their spots.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

West Indies Championship...

FROM BACK PAGE Johann Jeremiah, Shamar Springer, and Ryan John and put Windward Islands Volcanoes on track for a possible three-day win against hosts Jamaica Scorpions.

Martin ended the day with three for 29 from seven overs, and Scorpions limped to 76 for four in their second innings before stumps were drawn, still trailing by 106, after they had dismissed Volcanoes for 341 in their first innings.

There was no play in the other two matches in the first round because of adverse weather in St Kitts.

AT CHEDWIN PARK: Wickham maximised the docile pitch and the small boundaries to lead the Pride batting onslaught with his first hundred for them in this tournament.

He reached the milestone from 120 balls with a six over mid-wicket off Trinidadian off-spinner Shatrughan Rambaran inside the first hour after tea before teenaged leg-spinner Zishan Motara bowled him round his legs with Pride intent on scoring quickly to hasten the declaration.

Jonathan Drakes piled on the pressure with 84, retired West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Shane Dowrich cracked 41, and opener Zachary McCaskie, a West Indies Test selectee on the Tour of Australia, made 30.

Pacer Akeem Jordan, another West Indies Test selectee on the Tour of Australia, then gave Pride their only success in about an hour-and-a-quarter of play before stumps were drawn when he bowled Trinidadian opener Kirstan Kallicharan for seven after the former West Indies Under-19 World Cup winner shared a painstaking opening stand of nine in 16 overs with Shaqkere Parris.

At the close, Parris, a former West Indies Under-19 opener, was not out on two and discarded West

Indies batsman Shamar Brooks was not out on zero.

After a ruptured water main flooded parts of the outfield and forced the abandonment of the first day, Pride had no second thoughts about winning the toss and deciding to bat and their batsmen made merry before lunch.

The Marooners still managed to chip away at their top order and restricted them to 105 for three at the interval with Pride and West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite going inside the first hour for seven before fellow opener Shayne Moseley departed for 10 and McCaskie too, fell in the second hour.

After lunch, Drakes made scoring look easy and shared 112 for the fourth wicket with Wickham before off-spinner Romario Greaves held a sharp return catch in his second over to send him on his way and got the big-hitting Roshon Primus caught at slip for five in his fourth over.

Pride were 198 for five, and Dowrich came out to join Wickham and carried them to tea on 218 for five before he exploded after the break, and the pair added 75 for the sixth wicket in quick time.

Blades bowled Dowrich off the inside edge with Pride 273 for six, and Wickham was within reach of his hundred, and he accelerated to get them past 300 and to the declaration.

AT SABINA PARK: Scorpions again failed to ease worries about the competence of their batting after Martin struck with his second delivery and got opener Carlos Brown caught at third slip for a duck in the second over of the innings.

He followed up with the scalp of West Indies Test left-hander Kirk McKenzie squared up and caught at gully also for a third-ball duck with the final delivery of the same over.

Scorpions were seven

for two, and opener Chadwick Walton resisted for close to half-hour with discarded West Indies Test vice-captain Jermaine Blackwood before Martin bowled him for 20 with a delivery that moved back and appeared to keep low.

Blackwood stayed long enough to get Scorpions past 50 with Nkrumah Bonner, another Test discard, before Volcanoes first innings bowling hero Ryan John got him caught low down at second slip for 16 and the home team found themselves in a hole on 70 for four.

Earlier, Jeremiah led the way with 80, Springer made 71, and John added 57, and Volcanoes gained a first innings lead of 182 after they had bowled Scorpions out for 159 the previous day.

Four wickets – two apiece to off-spinner Peat Salmon and pacer Gordon Bryan – had Volcanoes unsettled on 219 for six at lunch after Ambris, Jeremiah, Shadrach Descarte, and Barbadian wicketkeeper-batsman Tevyn Walcott fell in entertaining period before the interval.

After lunch, a stand of 118 for the seventh wicket between John and Springer, two members of the 2016 West Indies Under-19 World Cup winning squad, snuffed the life out of the Scorpions fight-back and gave Volcanoes the edge.

After John was caught on the fine leg boundary off Bryan, there was token resistance from the rest of the visitors’ batting.

Bryan was the pick of the Scorpions bowlers, ending with four for 64 from 23 overs, Salmon supported with three for 78 from 31 overs, and Marquino Mindley bagged two for 60 from 22.2 overs.

AT CONAREE CRICKET CENTRE: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force were set to resume from their overnight total of 215 for four against defending champions Guyana Harpy Ea-

gles with Jason Mohammed not out on exactly 100 and opener Vikash Mohan not out on 20, but constant rain meant no play was possible.

AT WARNER PARK:

Mbeki Joseph was not on 30 and his captain Ackeem Auguste was not out on 15, and the Cricket West Indies Academy were to continue from their bed-

time total of 60 for two, replying to a first innings total of 137 for hosts Leeward Islands Hurricanes, but constant rain meant no play was possible.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 9, 2024

West Indies Championship - Round one - Rain forces lack of play on Day Two between Harpy Eagles and Red Force

CONSTANT rain made play impossible on Day Two of the Cricket West Indies Championship four-day match between the Guyana Harpy Ea-

gles and the Trinidad Red Force in St Kitts.

Elsewhere, an enterprising third first-class hundred from former West Indies Under-19 batsman Kevin

Wickham enabled Barbados Pride to make up for lost time against Combined Campuses & Colleges.

The 20-year-old cracked eight fours and nine sixes in

a fluent 139 from 135 balls to become the second century-maker for the season, and Pride declared their first innings on 341 for eight about 45 minutes before the

scheduled close on the second day of their first-round match in Jamaica before the Marooners grinded to 10 for one when stumps were drawn.

A destructive opening burst from pacer Darius Martin followed up consistent batting down the order led by half-centuries from TURN TO PAGE 27

Petra organisation releases automatic qualifiers for MILO 2024 SEE PAGE

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Santa Rosa Secondary are the defending MILO champions

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| FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024