Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 14-12-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

THURSDAY 14th December, 2023

PRICE

$100

VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107294

Presidents Ali, Maduro to meet today 14 PAGE

‘An extraordinary man’

–– Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles remembered

PAGE

–– as family, friends, and army colleagues bid final farewell 03

Hundreds of persons turned up to bid farewell to Lieutenant Colonel, Michael Charles on Wednesday

hope Education Ministry to Guyana gears Guyana open to dialogue with ‘It isthatourthesincere summit up for UNSC role Venezuela on relationship repair will result in peace’ construct US$8.1M 08 PAGE

wPAGE

–– Security Council Report conducts training with Foreign Affairs team

–– PM Phillips tells National Assembly –– Says case before ICJ not for bilateral talks 07 PAGE

–– Opposition leaders say

‘Nothing will be done in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to compromise ICJ process’

wPAGE

Prospect Secondary School

–– VP says; affirms face-to-face meeting can serve to de-escalate tensions

–– No national interest will be compromised 15 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

‘An extraordinary man’ – Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles remembered

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

— as family, friends, army colleagues bid final farewell

By Naomi Parris DEFINED as an ordinary man who did extraordinary things, Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Charles was on Wednesday remembered as a humble patriot who lived to serve and loved his people and country. Charles, 61, tragically lost his life in a devastating accident when the Bell 412 helicopter he was operating crashed last week in the jungle of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), resulting in severe burns to his body. At his residence in Hyde Park, Timehri, hundreds gathered to pay their final respects to the aviation and military mogul. Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali; Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips and Guyana Defence Force Chief of Staff Omar Khan, joined family members at the emotional ceremony. Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Charles, best known to many as Mike Charles and Uncle Mike, died tragically last Wednesday along with four other senior servicemen. Charles, the pilot, was flying a high-level team to the country’s western borders to visit troops stationed there. During the past few weeks, military presence had been multiplied at that location due to Venezuela’s escalated aggression in the ongoing border controversy with Guyana. “Things that feel difficult and challenging there was always a solution. When we deployed our Air Corps, Lieutenant-Colonel Charles was always there, with a solution,” Army Chief, Omar Khan said. “He was always willing to go on any mission... I recall his common term, chief, not a problem,” Khan added, while sharing fonder memories of his colleague. Charles, he said, had an adventurous spirit and

shared many memories of his flights across Guyana through his photography and videography. His love for the country was displayed through this. Mike Charles served as an officer for 29 years before retiring in 2010. “He was a part of a senior team, he was a part of the major decision-making of the force. He was full of life, he lived to serve this nation.” HE FLEW SERVICE IN MIND Meanwhile in a heartfelt tribute, President Ali, said: “Mike Charles is a legend … Mike Charles is no ordinary Guyanese, Mike Charles is a legend of a Guyanese.” Charles returned to service in 2011 and dedicated his years of service to the air corps. During many flights across Guyana’s hinterland, forests and mountainous terrains, Charles shared many of his adventures with Guyanese through his lens “Mike did not just fly, he flew for country…I had a report on the conservancy, I had a report on the conservancy dam, I had a report on every sea defence structure that [he] would pass, I had a report on the water levels, wherever it was, I would have a report on the savannahs, every time he flew, he flew with service in mind.” The President noted that he considered Mike Charles a brother and admired his valour for people and humility. “He did ordinary things in extraordinary ways, due to his commitment to duty and his great love for people and his country. I knew Michael Charles personally, I consider him as a brother.I admired his commitment to duty, but most of all I was touched by his great love for humanity and country for which both he and I were born.” “Michael possessed an extraordinary ability to engage [in] effortless converIn his final flight, the aviation mogul arrived at the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown, in the Bell 412 Helicopter, an aircraft which the Lieutenant-Colonel flew many times himself (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

Continued on page 13

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Pensioners appreciate practical, timely one-off grant

THIS holiday season, the elderly population of Guyana is filled with immense happiness, courtesy of the government's prompt allocation of a $25,000 cash grant to 72,000 pensioners throughout the country. This will assist seniors with their Christmas shopping. The government rolled out the distribution in Regions Six and 10 on Tuesday and the Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke to some of the beneficiaries. Kamal Dhanesar emphasised the practical nature of the grant, highlighting that it will fulfill various holiday needs. “It will come in handy. It will help in the home…because this is the time when people want to buy a few things whether furniture, grocery, [or] decoration because of the Christmas cele-

Pensioners during the distribution exercise

bration and so on,” he said. Other recipients echoed similar sentiments. Joseph Brijbisi said, “It will help me

all round, ration wise and so. Yes, everything good.” Verma Moonsammy expressed sincere gratitude. “I

feel happy that I get this lil extra change for the Christmas. Me thank me government so much. I am very happy.” Sahoodra Balkumari also expressed her appreciation,

stating, “I thank the government so much for the help. It’s a great help for me.” The positive reactions resonated across the communities visited, including Port Mourant, New Amsterdam, Mahaicony, No.5 Village and No.28 Village. Pensioner Bachan Gyal also welcomed the initiative, noting, “It’s great… So we welcome it especially Christmas time.” The cash grant serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to the welfare of its senior citizens. It provides much-needed financial assistance to vulnerable populations, allowing them to celebrate the holidays in comfort. Additionally, the distribution of pension and public assistance booklets for 2024 is underway, further demonstrating the government’s dedication to supporting its citizens. The one-off grant represents a significant investment of some $1.8 billion for the well-being of Guyana’s elderly population.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Lima Hospital, new facilities to bridge gaps in regional healthcare services — Dr. Ramsammy

By Cindy Parkinson IN a recent site visit to the Lima Regional Hospital, the Guyana Chronicle observed substantial progress in the construction of the state-of-the-art facility, set to revolutionise healthcare on the Essequibo Coast. It is slated for completion in December 2024. The foundation work is swiftly advancing, signaling the government’s commitment to accessible and quality medical care for all Guyanese. In a recent interview with this publication, Adviser to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, explained that the government of Guyana has invested in the construction of health facilities not only in the Essequibo regions but throughout the country. According to Dr. Ramsammy, this is to ensure that every Guyanese has access to high-quality and affordable medical care. He related: “The Lima Hospital is one of the six contemporary hospitals that are being constructed by Chinese contractors in the nation. In addition to CT scans, an intensive care unit (ICU) for adults, children, and newborns, cataract procedures, as well as other treatments.” Dr. Ramsammy further indicated that the Lima hospital, in conjunction with the other newly established ones, will showcase three theatres, one emergency room, and two main ones. More crucially, he said, the hospital is set up to offer more efficient and effective services. According to him, “we are working on upgrading the Suddie and Charity hospitals, which we can do, but these are older facilities that are not intended to offer the kind of services that we need to bring to Region Two and the other regions. For this reason, we are working on building new hospitals so that we won’t have to construct separate buildings, and the services are dispersed.” Despite the presence of operating rooms at the Suddie and Charity hospitals, Dr. Ramsammy stated that the theaters are insufficient for the advanced surgical procedures being introduced by these facilities to the nation and, as a result, the surrounding areas. The nation has a leader

(President Dr. Irfaan Ali) who believes in taking the government to the people, and in that respect, Dr. Ramsammy said, “We are taking health care to the region and its people. Even though certain procedures will require travel to Georgetown, Dr. Ramsammy stated: “The entire purpose of these investments in the various regions is so that people wouldn’t have to come to Georgetown for a certain diagnosis; they should be comfortable in their own regions where their families can attend to them as well. More hospitals are being constructed around the nation, and we are offering previously unavailable, more effective services.” Additionally, the adviser said, “buildings are not hospitals; buildings are a part of a hospital. In relation to the development of jobs in the health industry, what truly distinguishes a hospital from anything else is the patients who visit and the staff that work there. Of course, a hospital with 75 beds and complete in-patient services, including intensive care, as well as full diagnostic and rehabilitation capabilities, will need a sizable staff.” These facilities, according to Dr. Ramsammy, will employ more than just medical professionals like physicians, nurses, and other staff members. He stated that there will be openings for support personnel, including porters, cleaners, security, and much more. “There will be thousands of jobs created by these institutions for community members and health professionals,” Dr. Ramsammy said. Furthermore, Dr. Ramsammy made it clear that it is not hard to recognise that the shortage of nurses in the health sector is a matter of concern for the population in Guyana, the Caribbean, and other developed nations. He added: “Along with the construction of these hospitals, we have also started a new nursing programme where we had about 150 to 250 nurses in the intake class each year, but for this year we had about 1,200 nurses, and we are hoping that the number will climb to 1,500 next year. That is inclusive of online training as well, and a number of these students would be studying in their own communities and not having to travel and stay in Georgetown, New Amsterdam, or Linden, where

Construction work has begun on the Lima Hospital foundation (Cindy Parkinson photos)

we have our nursing schools.” However, he continued to explain that the government is constructing more housing for them as, eventually, they would need “in-house educational programs.” Furthermore, Dr. Ramsammy revealed that a nursing school, equipped with dormitories, will be constructed at Suddie Hospital. It is anticipated to open by the end of the following year. “With these training programmes and training facilities, we are hoping to have enough of our own health workers in these new institutions.” Dr. Ramsammy concluded

by revealing that 10 new hospitals will be built, the first of which is the Lima Regional Hospital, which is expected to open in December 2024. While the other four will be built in the hinterland, the others, which will have the same services as the New Amsterdam and Linden Hospitals, will be situated at Number 75 Village in Region Six, Bath Settlement in Region Five, Enmore on the East Coast Demerara, Little Diamond on East Bank Demerara, and De Kinderen on the West Coast Demerara.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Not a single blade of grass! PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali is in St. Vincent & The Grenadines today for the highly anticipated meeting called by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, backed by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Community of Latin American States (CELAC). President Ali has the backing of the National Assembly and all of Guyana in his decision to attend the meeting, but only for the purposes of the face-to-face dialogue on matters that do not include anything that can compromise Guyana’s national sovereignty. This message is very clear, as there is no “dispute”, just a continuing controversy that

Venezuela has decided to pursue with such sudden finality in 2023 as to threaten to forcibly occupy Guyana’s Essequibo and make our citizens salute the Venezuelan flag. But worst of all, Caracas has had the temerity to redraw the original map of Venezuela to include Guyana’s Essequibo region. Guyana is totally committed to keeping the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, something Venezuela was once committed to, but seems to have abandoned in pursuit of the practically impossible occupation of Essequibo. Guyana has the backing of allies and friends in the Caribbean, South and North America,

the UK, the Commonwealth, but is really more interested in a discussion of matters consequential to the ongoing controversy that erases threats of force from the vocabulary between states and replaces it with respect for the rule of law, without prejudice to Guyana’s case being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). As PM Gonsalves wisely adumbrated in his letter to the two presidents, “Experience has shown that it’s always wise, mature and preferable for nations in conflict to meet and talk calmly and patiently, in order to avoid any escalation into threats of use of force…” We also agree with his assertion that “Resolution of old

controversies in these contemporary and challenging times is not easy, but rather strenuous for leaders, but a strenuous life lived in peace is preferable to one of ignoble ease in permanent conflict or a violent encounter…” That said, it’s never too much to repeat that Guyana isn’t interested in approaching this controversy as a dispute, as Essequibo has always been ours. It’s unwise to say that nothing can come out of a meeting that hasn’t taken place and it’s good that knowledgeable figures who so postulated have had a welcome change of heart, as Guyana has made it clear that questioning the validity of Guy-

ana’s arguments before the ICJ is simply not an agenda item – or anything that refuses to accept that Essequibo belongs to Guyana. This matter has now escalated into questions being raised about the thousands of Venezuelans of Guyanese birth – and vice versa – who’ve fled conditions in Venezuela and crossed into Guyana for refuge and a better life and whose national identities are being friendly examined by local authorities. Interestingly, Venezuela’s President insists he’s in St. Vincent to discuss a dispute that doesn’t exist and has also given advanced notice Caracas will not respect the ICJ’s decision, even while the court is still

meeting and there is no indication how and when it will rule. Venezuela is also wrongly claiming that today’s meeting was somehow the result of its December 3 referendum, when Dr Gonsalves indicated, in his letter, that this initiative started since September 29, 2023. Waxing religious, Dr Gonsalves has warned: “Talking is always better than fighting…” and “while the issues are difficult, it will be necessary for the participants to summon the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job and the foresight of the ancient Hebrew prophets...” Here’s hoping Venezuela understands.

Public sector salary increase (Part II)

Dear editor,

Further to my letter published in another section of the media on December 11, 2023, and in the print media on December 12, 2023, I would like to address some other aspects on the subject of “public sector salary increases” for your readers. A few prominent commentators suggested that the percentage increase could have been higher than 6.5 per cent to 10-15 per cent since the cost-of-living situation remains elevated. Be that as it may, it is of importance to remind observers that with regard to the issue of cost of living, the

government instituted a number of measures, subsidies included, in response to this reality, and those measures have largely been maintained to date. These include: The several cash grants including for the school children; reduction of the excise tax from fuel imports from 50 per cent to 0 per cent ; reverting the shipping freight computation to be based on the pre-covid formula; subsidising the increased generating cost, i.e., the fuel cost for GPL and GWI; maintaining the subsidised electricity in Linden; Increasing the tax threshold; increase in old age pension and cash grants provided to

other vulnerable groups; the part time jobs; and subsidy (building materials) for first time home builders. One would also recall that in the first “emergency budget” by the government in 2020, that they had reversed a plethora of punitive taxes, fees, and VAT on a long list of consumable goods and services. The reversal of these taxes alone resulted in an instant reduction in the tax burden for taxpayers to the tune of nearly $60 billion annually. This in turn would have translated to an additional disposal income of $80,000 per person or $200,000 per household annually. With that

in mind, the combined cost of all of the above, together with those that would translate to foregone revenue to the national treasury, such as the reduction of excise tax on fuel from 50 per cent to 0 per cent ($20 billion annually), is an estimated $200 billion per annum. Effectively, this has an indirect impact per household that is almost akin to a cost-of-living subsidy of roughly $667k annually/per household. Furthermore, readers would recall that in my previous letter on the subject, I had illustrated that the cumulative salary increases that the government implemented

since 2021-2023, taking into account the upward adjustments for various categories of public sector employees, is an average of 46.1 per cent. This would translate to an average annual (nominal) increase for the period (2021-2023) of 15.4 per cent. However, in real terms―that is, when adjusted for the total inflation for the period (20212023), which was 17.7 per cent, the real average increase for the period observed is 28.4 per cent or an average of 9.5 per cent annually. Henceforth, considering the analysis presented herein and in previous referenced article, it is safe to conclude that the average

annual salary increases in nominal terms for the period 2021-2023 is 15.4 per cent; and in real terms is 9.5 per cent on average. With respect to the cost-of-living measures instituted by the government to help cushion the impact at the household level, these measures altogether have the equivalence to an annual subsidy of $667k per household (indirectly) or $200 billion annually in costs to the national treasury, inclusive of foregone revenues. Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Guyana open to dialogue with Venezuela on relationship repair — PM Phillips tells National Assembly — Says case before ICJ not for bilateral talks — Consultations continue with opposition, private sector on border controversy

By Shamar Meusa PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips told the National Assembly that, with a meeting set for President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, Guyana is prepared to speak with Venezuela only on any other aspect that can contribute to repairing the relationship between the two countries. The Prime Minister made these remarks on Monday as he provided the 69th sitting of the 12th Parliament with an update on the current Guyana-Venezuela border controversy. During his presentation, he noted that the house is unanimous in its resolution that the land boundary is not up for bilateral discussions and that the settlement of the matter is properly in the International Court of Justice, where it must remain until the court gives its

final ruling on the merits of the case, which he added will be respected by Guyana. “The President and government has [sic] reiterated this on numerous occasions and it was underscored by the President to the CARICOM heads of Government that the case before the ICJ will not be an issue for bilateral talks or discussions,” Prime Minister Phillips said. To this end, he noted that the government was pleased that the statement issued by the leader of the opposition on December 9, 2023 supported its position. Against this backdrop, he went on to reiterate that Guyana will not be engaging in any dialogue with Venezuela on settlement of the controversy that has been brought about by Venezuela’s claim that the 1899 arbitral award which settled the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela is null and void.

At that moment, he conveyed to the members of the house, “Guyana is prepared to speak with Venezuela on any other aspect that may contribute to repairing the relationship between the two countries.” Further to this, he indicated that the court’s order on December 1, 2023, stipulated that both parties should refrain from actions that might “aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve.” The Prime Minister indicated that Guyana is acting in accordance with the expectations of the court, and it is within this context that the proposal to engage in dialogue on de-escalating tensions was considered. “A lack of good neighbourliness can only lead in one direction, one that, as a responsible member of this regional fraternity and the international community, we feel it is our duty to present,” he said. Although Guyana did

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips (DPI photo)

not start what most citizens are now all consumed by, Phillips reassured the House that the government has not relented on its diplomatic efforts to explain the justness of Guyana’s position and to reach out to regional and international partners to solicit their support in the face of the direct threat of invasion. Guyana, he added, has intensified these efforts and remains appreciative of the solid and principal support, both collective and individual, of CARICOM states and from allies and partners in the

international community. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister took time to address issues raised in relation to the migrant population from Venezuela here in Guyana. As such, he highlighted the most recent discussion in the national assembly during an extraordinary sitting, where he noted that the government put forward its position on the several measures being taken to receive migrants from Venezuela. Phillips noted it was explained that the government has put systems in place to ensure that these

migrants are treated humanely and provided with all social benefits that are available to the Guyanese population and are not discriminated against. Further to this, he reiterated the government’s position that there should be no xenophobic tendencies displayed by Guyanese citizens to these migrants. He argued, “Furthermore public allegations of the government giving citizenship to Venezuelan migrants for elections purposes in violation of our laws should be rejected as baseless and mischievous.” With this, he then indicated that the government will not rest and ensure that it takes every measure to preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana, and in doing so, it will ensure that there is full consultation with the opposition, private sector and civil society.

Refuting inaccuracies in the Kaieteur News letter

Dear editor,

Regarding a letter published in the Kaieteur News on December 11, 2023, which stated that I am the national coordinator for agriculture, this is very inaccurate. As such, I refute the suspicion and allegation. Let me declare that my contract states, “National Cash Crop and Small Farmers Coordinator.” Secondly, I still have enough evidence to prove that I have attended secondary school and earned passes at the General Certificate of Examinations. Let me also

state that I have never ceased pursuing higher knowledge. I am still engaging myself in philosophy and career courses. I must be kind to inform you that several times, I am invited to deliver speeches at the University of Guyana and other educational institutions. Speaking at the international forum is not strange to me. This personal attack is very sacred and helpful to me. It allows me to achieve high levels of achievement at both national and international levels. I must say that I have evolved amazingly as an individual and a citizen of this country. After completing second-

ary school, my first attachment was as a field officer at the Letter T estate. I also had a stint with GUYSUCO. Later on, I engaged myself as a personal farmer and businessman. The allaround experiences achieved at the various levels of my evolution secured me positions both at national and international levels. I have served on many national boards for both governments. These include the National Commission for the Family, the Central Housing Board, Health Board, Prison Board, School Boards, and Estate Boards. As if not enough, I was elected to serve as an In-

tegrity Commissioner under four governments. My evolution continues as I was appointed a Justice of Peace and Commissioner for Oaths and Affidavits as a License Marriage Officer in Guyana and the United States. To date, I am presenting regular philosophical lectures on national television. Only recently did I return from South Korea as an International Ambassador of Peace. The opportunity to serve is always the high point of my existence. Since the commencement of my contract, I have created over150 farmers’ groups countrywide to facilitate the

mandate of our government, which is to satisfy local and regional consumption of food. My role is important. Our government and ministry have to clean up the failures and disappointments that established APNU/AFC and, at the same time, create possibilities for the future. Even a primary school child could have testified to that truth. Today, agriculture is highlighted as the savior of the Caribbean, and Guyana is leading the way. Guyana, through this government, has retained its rightful position as the torchbearer of the Caribbean. I am proud to be an ambassador,

assisting in fulfilling the mandate of the ministry. I enjoy what I do, since agriculture permeates my very being. I will continue to demonstrate, guide, assist, and inspire farmers at all levels. You don’t have to be an academic to qualify for this position. All it takes is passion and selflessness. It is better to dive for facts rather than jump to conclusions. Civility costs nothing but buys everything. Sincerely, Rabindranath Persaud National Cash Crop & Small Farmers Coordinator

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Education Ministry to construct US$8.1M Prospect Secondary School — State-of-the-art facilities cater for 1,000 students

The layout of the Prospect Secondary School

By Trina Williams AS the government persistently strives towards attaining universal secondary education, the establishment of Prospect Secondary, which costs a total of USD$8.1M, emerges as a significant contributor to this endeavour. The Ministry of Education (MoE), which is currently seeking approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), said that it is implementing the Guyana Strengthening Human Capital through Education Project, which is supported by the World Bank. This project stands to support the current government’s secondary education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

reform agenda, achieving both universal secondary education and increased provision of labour-market relevant skills. The document then went on to state that it is anticipated that the new school will have a capacity of 1000 students, to accommodate both current and future populations. According to the project summary, the proposed secondary school is to be located at Prospect, East Bank Demerara and the area reserved for construction of the school is 6.12 acres. “When it was decided to construct the Prospect Secondary School, there were 307 secondary school students attending primary tops, and 450 learners who were being housed in the audito-

rium of secondary schools due to oversubscription,” the document read, while adding that the new housing development lies adjacent to the school site. Moreover, the construction will be carried out by a general contractor under contract to the MoE, and the contractor will be procured through a competitive bidding process. The construction period is expected to be a 15-month period, followed by a 12-month defect liability period. The school will include the following facilities: 25 classrooms; an information technology laboratory; a language laboratory; science laboratories; an Industrial Technology Department (metal work, wood work AutoCAD); a Home Economics

A 3D image of the proposed layout of the new Prospect Secondary School

Department (food and nutrition, clothing and textile and home management); Visual and Performing Arts facilities, a library, and a sick bay. Also, the school will have an administrative block including a principal’s office, staff room, a canteen, sanitary facilities for students and staff, an assembly area/ all-weather playing area, a recreational area, an agricultural area, and other facilities. In addition, the following ancillary facilities will be constructed: guard huts, a car park, and cycle shed, a septic system, a water trestle, and reservoirs, an auditorium, a boundary fence, bridge(s), internal and external drainage system, speed bumps and pedestrian crossings, among others. Furthermore, the design of the school caters to univer-

sal access. In 2021, the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, during a ceremonial sod-turning event at the proposed site of the new Prospect Secondary School on the East Bank of Demerara, pledged that there would be better monitoring of construction works on new schools. Referring to a situation that currently exists whereby work on the construction of a number of new schools has been woefully falling behind schedule, Minister Manickchand warned that when construction at Prospect commences, this state of affairs will not be allowed to occur. “My commitment and promise to you here today is that this school will not be like those other schools.

Today, we commit to you that any civil-works project we take on, we will monitor it very, very closely. If the people who are monitoring it are unable to monitor it, they will have to make space for people who are capable of doing that; and I’m very clear about that,” the minister stated. “We are going to keep a very tight timeline on the completion of this school, and as soon as you miss, we will be on your backs; not because we want to manage like autocrats, but for all the time that the school stays unbuilt, we have children in the secondary department of a primary school unable to get the quality of education that they need. And that would be a sin, and it’s criminal,” the minister said.

Enmore, Haslington undergo major road upgrades

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

SEVERAL community roads along the East Coast corridor continue to be rehabilitated through the Ministry of Public Works Special Projects Unit (SPU). This is the fulfilment of a commitment made by Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, following community engagements in Haslington and Enmore. During these outreaches, residents raised concerns related to deteriorating roads, which affected accessibility. The infrastructural projects were executed in phases based on the needs of each community. In Haslington, construction works commenced on November 23, 2023, and con-

cluded on December 07, 2023. This involved a comprehensive rehabilitation of four community roads, covering a combined distance of 694.5 metres. This undertaking included Sideline Road, measuring 271.5 metres in length and 3.6 metres in width, and Nursery School Road, spanning 190 metres in length and 3.6 metres in width. Last Street in Haslington will also undergo rehabilitation, involving a stretch of 150 metres with a width of 3.1 metres, and Steel Bridge Road, spanning 83 metres in length and 3.5 metres in width. Similar works are currently being executed at Enmore, which also commenced on

Completed infrastructural works in the community of Haslington, East Coast Demerara

November 23. This will see five roads being rehabilitated in the community including Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Streets and Enmore Old Road. The infrastructural upgrade at Enmore will span a total of some 1212.6 metres in total and is being executed in asphaltic concrete. This is part of the government’s efforts aimed at fostering connectivity, and economic activity. It also forms part of the PPP/C Administration’s manifesto commitment to enhancing infrastructure and improving the lives of citizens throughout the country.

Millions wasted as APNU+AFC left Wiruni Health — Auditor General’s Centre, living quarters unfinished Report uncovers AMONG the numerous financial discrepancies under the previous coalition government, the regional administration of Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), lost millions owing to the abandonment of a contract for the construction of a health centre and living quarters in Wiruni, Berbice River. This was according to the Report of the Auditor General on the Public Accounts of Guyana and on the accounts of the ministries and departments for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022. The report revealed that the $19.684 million contract was awarded in 2017 by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) and the total payments made for works completed were $9.167Millon, with the contractor receiving an advance payment of $3.937Millon. This represented 20 per cent of the contract sum, and this was followed by three interim payments of $2.019 million, $1.390 million, and $1.822 million, respectively. “However, the works were incomplete, and the site was abandoned. The contract was subsequently

terminated and it was difficult to ascertain whether or not the advance payment was fully recovered, or if a valuation at termination was prepared and all accounts settled,” the report revealed. As a response, the region said that the Head of the Budget Agency indicated that this matter is presently engaging the Attorney General on the way forward. Additionally, the Audit Office recommended that the Regional Administration ensure proper monitoring of all contracts awarded; a final account or valuation at termination is prepared; and any amount overpaid is recovered. Earlier this year, other discrepancies were scrutinised before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). For instance, the regional administration of Region One (Barima-Waini), under the former coalition administration, did not maintain a register on fuel inventory for 2017, and several accounting discrepancies, including the receipt of more fuel than the region had capacity to store, has raised grave questions of accounting breaches at the regional administration. Continued on page 10

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Aiden Midtown Hotel nears completion

LORENZO Alphonso, the Director of Arimu Investments Inc., provided an update on the progress of the eagerly anticipated US$25M Aiden Midtown Georgetown Hotel, located at Oronoque and Robb Streets, Georgetown. Alphonso disclosed that the hotel, set to be a game-changer in the hospitality industry, is in its finishing stages of construction and is scheduled to open its doors for business in the first quarter of April 2024. According to Alphonso, "The Aiden Midtown Georgetown" is currently at an impressive 78 percent completion and is entering the final stages of construction. Upon opening, the hotel is expected to provide permanent employment opportunities for over 65 employees, contributing to the local economy. The hotel, boasting 148 rooms, is designed to offer

— Set for April 2024 opening

The Aiden Midtown Georgetown Hotel at Robb and Oronoque Streets, Georgetown in its final phase of completion (Delano Williams photo)

modern facilities, including conference rooms, an English restaurant, bar, coffee shop, gym, sauna area, executive boardrooms, a terrace bar/ grill, extended balcony, and executive chauffeur service. A unique feature highlighted by Alphonso is the rooftop bar and lounge, encased in glass to provide patrons with an exclusive dining experi-

ence. Aiden Hotel aims to set itself apart with international furnishings, lights, sounds, and designs, making it the first bar in Guyana to feature a humidor with a collection of world-renowned cigars. The invisible-styled rails and barriers concept promises to give diners the sensation of dining under the stars, offering a sight second to none. In a previous interview earlier this year, President Irfaan Ali toured the site and revealed that the hotel would feature 101 "smart rooms," aligning with the boutique-styled concept under the Best Western Hotel and Resorts franchise. Smart rooms are equipped with electronic devices and household appliances powered by internet connectivity. Best Western, a globally recognised hotel chain originating in the USA with over 4,200 hotels worldwide, each independently owned and operated, lends its prestigious franchise to "The Aiden Midtown Georgetown." Arimu Investments Inc., the Guyanese company behind the hotel's development, has invested in mining, real estate, and business. The directors of Arimu Investments

Inc., Geraldo and Lorenzo Alphonso, foresee a growing demand for accommodation amid Guyana's rapidly expanding economy. Geraldo Alphonso, in a March 2021 interview with the Guyana Chronicle, explained that the Arimu Investment Company is named after a tributary of the Mighty Cuyuni River in Region Seven, a gold and diamond rich area the company is familiar with through its gold-mining exploits. The company is 100 percent Guyanese-owned. Arimu Investments Inc. has secured franchises for both "Sure Stay Plus and Aiden," two franchised hotels under Best Western. "The Aiden Midtown Georgetown" will be the 12th Aiden hotel globally, the first to be completed in South America, the only one in the Caribbean, and Guyana's first franchised boutique hotel. The nine-storey high "Aiden Midtown Georgetown" spans a 74,000 square-foot modern building, promising to redefine the hospitality landscape in Georgetown and offer a unique and memorable experience for both locals and visitors alike. As the construction nears completion, anticipation is building for the grand opening in April 2024.

Millions wasted as APNU+AFC left Wiruni Health Centre, living... From page 9

According to findings, the region also did not maintain a register for fuel receipts and issuances;

however, in total, there are more cases of fuel being issued than there were instances of fuel input, leav-

ing several questions about what exactly took place in 2017 with the fuel in the region. According to the 2017 Audit Report, while 817 drums (36,767 gallons) of fuel were received by the regional administration from various suppliers, amounts totalling 1,009 drums (45,420 gallons) were reflected as being issued. As a result, the records indicated an excess of 192 drums (8,653 gallons) of gasoline being issued, more than was paid for. Moreover, while fuel was stored in one bond that had a maximum capacity of 50 drums of gasoline (2,250 gallons) and 10 drums of diesel (450 gallons) at any given time, evidence was seen where fuel was purchased in quantities beyond the storage capacity of the bond.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Presidents Ali, Maduro to meet today

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

By Navendra Seoraj in Saint Vincent

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro, will meet today at the Argyle International Airport, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Up until press time, the St. Vincent authorities were wrapping up preparations for the meeting. It is being hosted by the country’s Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. In attendance will be a representative from Brazil, Heads of State of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); a United Nations Under-Secretary General, and members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). Dr. Ali is heading into the meeting with the firm position that the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela is not up for discussion, as the matter is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In a letter penned to the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro, will meet today at the Argyle International Airport, St. Vincent

Ralph Gonsalves, on Tuesday, President Ali sought to clarify the inaccuracies that Maduro has been spreading. “In my prior letter, I indicated my understanding that the meeting is to be conducted in consonance with the framework elaborated

for such a meeting in the Communique of CARICOM Heads of Government of 8th December, 2023,” Dr Ali said. “…It is incumbent upon me to respond to certain inaccuracies in President Maduro’s letter to you of

December 11, 2023. Particularly his statement that: the ‘high-level dialogue’ to which you have invited us, is “in order to directly address the territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana…” the President wrote in the letter to Dr Gonsalves.

The Guyanese President reiterated that he, too, has a mandate from the National Assembly of Guyana, which is “unanimous in its resolve that the land boundary is not a matter for bilateral discussions and the settlement of the matter is properly in the International Court of Justice where it must remain until the court gives its final ruling on the merits of the case which, Guyana has always said, and I repeat, will be fully respected by Guyana.” Given Guyana’s firm position and the narratives coming out of Venezuela, Caribbean diplomat Sir Shridath Ramphal has cautioned against fostering “false expectations” regarding the talks. Caribbean Community (CARICOM), a United Nations Under-Secretary General, and members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). But first, Sir Ramphal is urging caution against fostering “false expectations” regarding the talks. He stressed the need for a clear understanding of

the limits within which the discussions will take place, emphasising that the ongoing proceedings at the ICJ regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy cannot be compromised. “Never was that support more evident; they did not falter. CARICOM Heads repeated where they stood on the most critical aspects of the current situation, namely: That they ‘firmly support Guyana in pursuance of the resolution of its border controversy with Venezuela through the process of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). “That they ‘urge Venezuela to respect the conservatory measures determined by the ICJ in its recent ruling until a final resolution, and that they reiterate CARICOM’s commitment to the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, and the maintenance of international law,” Sir Shridath said in his statement. Several countries and major international institutions and blocs continue to call on Venezuela to respect international laws and Guyana’s sovereignty.

Guyana gears up for UNSC role — Security Council Report conducts training with Foreign Affairs team

IN preparation for assuming its non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on January 1, 2024, Guyana initiated a two-day training session on Wednesday. The training, facilitated by the Security Council Report, is designed to enhance the capacity of the Guyana team and shed light on procedural and thematic aspects of the Security Council. Hosted at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the training drew participation from officials representing various government agencies. The objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Council's operations, aligning them with Guyana's identified priorities during its tenure. The Security Council Re-

The two-day training, facilitated by the Security Council Report, is designed to enhance the capacity of the Guyana team and shed light on procedural and thematic aspects of the Security Council

port, a non-profit organisation, specialises in promoting transparency and efficacy within the UNSC. Their involvement in the training reflects a commitment to bolstering the capabilities of nations undertaking responsibilities as non-elected members of the UNSC. Foreign Secretary and High Representative for UNSC Affairs, Robert Persaud, expressed gratitude to the Security Council Report for its support in preparing the Guyanese team for the impending responsibilities. He acknowledged the critical role the organization plays in advancing transparency and understanding of the UNSC's activities and subsidiary bodies. As Guyana readies itself for its non-permanent seat, the training underscores the

nation's commitment to actively contribute to global security discussions and decision-making processes. The insights gained from the Security Council Report's training will empower the Guyana team to navigate procedural intricacies and engage effectively on thematic issues within the Security Council. This preparatory initiative reflects Guyana's dedication to playing a meaningful and informed role on the international stage, particularly in the critical domain of global security. The two-day training serves as a strategic investment in building the knowledge and capabilities of the Guyana team as they prepare to represent the nation's interests at the UNSC.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

‘Nothing will be done in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to compromise ICJ process’

— VP says; affirms face-to-face meeting can serve to de-escalate tensions — No national interest will be compromised By Trina Williams WITH just mere hours away from the meeting between Presidents, Dr Irfaan Ali and Nicolas Maduro, questions are still being asked as to what it will be about. As such, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has sought to provide some light on this important topic. President Ali has agreed to a proposed meeting with Venezuela’s President Maduro set to take place today in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, facilitated by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent Ralph Gonsalves and observed by Brazil, CARICOM, and a UN Under-Secretary-General. During an interview posted on his Facebook page, on Wednesday evening, the Vice President, reiterated that the border controversy is squarely before the International

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Court of Justice (ICJ) and this is not on the table for talks. “Nothing will be done in St. Vincent and the Grenadines that will compromise the ICJ process and on the defence co-operation and the engagements we’ve had with our international partners,” the Vice President said while underscoring that Guyana has never been the aggressor and its collaborations with partners have solely been to prepare for any eventualities.

Moreover, highlighting President Ali’s second letter to Dr Gonsalves, the Vice President said that this was a key element in exposing Maduro’s lies that he is telling CARICOM Leaders. He stated that all eyes are on the region as many think that the brewing tensions pose a threat to the peace and stability within the zone. While CARICOM has thrown its unequivocal support behind Guyana, Dr Jag-

deo said the organisation still recognised the imbalance. “CARICOM was very, very robust in its condemnation of the referendum and the subsequent actions of Maduro… Brazil and the others made it clear where they stood on the matter and so they expressed solidarity with Guyana. Nevertheless, we believe that we need to de-escalate tension and we can do so in a meeting with the two leaders… “We believe that a faceto-face meeting can serve to de-escalate tensions and this is coming from strong allies of Guyana,” the Vice President said. Guyana has never abandoned its good-neighborliness approach, but, the Vice President firmly maintained that removing the border-controversy case from the ICJ is not negotiable as Guyana has already pursued that path and

believes that the 1899 arbitral ward is binding. Stressing that President Ali has not been “shy” about reiterating the national stance, the Vice President said that the Guyanese Headof-State has the full support of the government. Dr Jagdeo also condemned those persons who are trying to score political points by inciting fear in the populace and distorting the meeting’s objectives. “I want to ensure that everyone who is looking at this matter or paying attention to it and has some worry about what will happen in St. Vincent and the Grenadines of whether some national interest will be compromised. That will not happen,” the Vice President affirmed. Furthermore, speaking on some of the actions that have led to this point, the Vice President took some time

to address why he felt the Maduro-led Administration held their sham referendum on December 3, which sought to annex part of Guyana’s territory. Dr Jagdeo said he is of the opinion that it was a front to hide the Bolivarian Republic’s internal issues. With that being said, despite all that is going on, this is nothing new and as such, Guyana will continue on its rapid development agenda, according to him. “We’ve been there before. We’ve overcome those challenges... several times in the past and we will overcome this here too…” he said while stating that Guyana cannot find itself paralysed and his government will continue to do its job. That is, bettering the lives of all Guyanese through job creation, education, security, among other objectives.

‘An extraordinary man’ – Lieutenant... From page 3

Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Ali, hands over the Golden Arrowhead (Service Flag), the country’s national flag to a member of Charles’ family (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

sations with total strangers making everyone feel as though they were long-time acquaintances. Upon first meeting Mike you could have been deceived that you have met him before…he approached people without preconceived judgements, never attempting to evaluate them before initiation [of] dialogue,” he added.

“The sounds and colours of the rainforest,” a piece recently produced by Charles, was said to be one of the best works in which he captured Guyana’s vast, unexplored forest. To celebrate both Mike and his work, President Ali said a tribute will be mounted on the walls of the National Museum.

“My cherished friend. I will carry you in my heart always Mike. May your spirit soar like an eagle and look down on us…thank you Mike for your service,” the Commander in Chief said in final farewell to his friend. In one final flight, Charles’ remains were flown to the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown, following a

Hundreds gathered to pay their last respects to Lieutenant-Colonel Mike Charles

church service at the Timehri Nazarene Church. His casket was draped in the Golden Arrowhead, Guyana’s national flag, in a show of respect and gratitude for his selfless service and sacrifice. A military parade later chaperoned Charles to the memorial gardens where he was cremated.

Mike Charles joined the military back in 1981 at the age of 18. In the earlier days of his career, he served in the Firstst Infantry Battalion as a Platoon Commander. He later ventured into aviation in 1984, joining the air corps. His training in aviation included commercial pilot Certification in China, Bell

412 Helicopter refresher course in Barbados, Helicopter instrument in Aruba, Bell 412 Pilot training, and Bell 206 helicopter ground and flight training in the United States of America. Charles was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel in 2021.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Cattle rustling, illegal animal slaughter being addressed at Cane Grove

— residents to work with police to mitigate issues

Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram (third from right) speaking with Cane Grove residents about issues affecting the community

THE issues of cattle rustling and illegal animal slaughter have had a lasting impact on the residents and farmers of Cane Grove. The po-

lice have made significant strides in addressing these issues, as well as the various concerns affecting the East Coast Demerara community. Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram led a police team to the area on Tuesday where they met and interacted with the residents as part of a proactive approach aimed at addressing the concerns raised. Commander Pareshram ensured that the issues and concerns raised by the residents were thoroughly examined and appropriate measures were put in place to rectify these and/or mitigate potential risks. Among the critical issues discussed were cattle rustling; illegal animal slaughter; the flow of information to the police; noise nuisance; the use of electric bikes and utilisation of huts in the backlands for checkpoints. These concerns were raised by engaged com-

munity members who sought effective resolutions and improvements in overall safety and well-being. C attle rustling and the illegal slaughter of animals have been long-standing issues affecting the Cane Grove community. The police team explored strategies to enhance security measures and collaboration to combat this criminal activity effectively. C ommander Pareshram emphasised the importance of reporting such activities promptly, and protocols were established to streamline the communication process with relevant agencies. A c c o m p a n y i n g Commander Pareshram were Inspector J. Samuels, Corporal McKenzie, Regional Coordinator of NAREI Gavin Glenn, NAREI Officer Chandrakar, Farmers Group Chairman Suresh Ramsarran, and RDC Councillor N. Baldeo.

‘It is our sincere hope that the summit will result in peace’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

WITH a meeting between President Dr Irfaan Ali and Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, expected today, Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, said that it is his hope that this meeting will result in peace between the two countries. Norton made these remarks during the 69th sitting of the 12th Parliament, where he rose to give the opposition’s support for dialogue that focuses on bilateral issues between Guyana and Venezuela. Against this backdrop, he told the house that President Ali had briefed him, and at that time, he also noted

that he was supportive of dialogue between the two nations. Added to this, Norton highlighted the recent resolution that was passed in the assembly and stated that members support the government in pursuit of ensuring a peaceful and lawful resolution of the controversy before the International Court of Justice and reject the proposal to return to any form of dialogue on the controversy outside of the process before the court, to which the opposition agreed. He said, “It is in that context when I spoke with the President, I said to him that

— Opposition leaders says

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

we agree that there should be an engagement that is aimed at bringing peace and

deescalating the conflict, we believe we were on good ground and we continue to

be on good ground.” Further to this, he indicated that the opposition wishes to state that they expect that whatever discussions are to occur should not involve the border controversy, but should focus on bilateral issues, as he indicated, “It is our sincere hope that the summit will result in peace.” Norton added that they believe that there is a place for dialogue and, as such, he hopes that there is a movement toward peace and the de-escalation of conflict without compromising Guyana’s position on the border case.

Meanwhile, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has made it clear that going into today’s high-level meeting which is expected to take place in St Vincent & the Grenadines facilitated by the Prime Minister of St Vincent, Ralph Gonsalves that the border controversy is not on the table for discussion. In a letter to Gonsalves, Dr Ali noted that this would not be up for discussion as the case is squarely before the International Court of Justice and further sought to correct inaccuracies that were being peddled by the Venezuelan president.

BIT certified 4,444 individuals in various skills in 2023

IN 2023, a grand total of 4,444 individuals from all 10 administrative regions have successfully completed free skills training programmes organised by the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT). BIT certified 187 individuals in Region One, 646 in Region Two, 320 in Region Three, 1,224 in Region Four, 254 in Region Five, 697 in Region Six, 265 in Region Seven, 118 in Region Eight, 190 in Region Nine, and 543 in Region 10. The programmes being offered have enabled the graduates to take on independent projects for personal growth while earning an income. During a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI),

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton commended the participants for taking advantage of the courses which will enhance their livelihoods and communities. “We are thankful that these young people have offered themselves to us. And we will continue to do the necessary training in all the regions,” Minister Hamilton noted. He explained that the ministry will be undertaking more developmental programmes in the coming year to improve the skillsets of Guyanese. Additionally, the Labour ministry through BIT has also collaborated with several village councils and other organisations to expand its reach, allowing more persons to receive technical and vocational training.

Welding and fabrication training being conducted

“We have to explore some more of the fibre optic

cable technician programme and seek to have more per-

sons trained in that area. It is becoming a new area. We

started this programme two years ago. We have to develop that programme,” Minister Hamilton explained. BIT has certified about 11, 275 persons in various occupational areas in three years. The agency offers a slew of courses, including fibre optic installation, building construction, boat building, welding, and fabrication, cosmetology, electrical installation, heavy-duty equipment operation, early childhood development, a n d c o m m e rc i a l f o o d preparation, among others. People who wish to complete more than one course through BIT can do so without any difficulties. However, they must pursue a course that complements their certification.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday December 14, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD -83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) The Oval, 2007 (WI won by 15 runs) (2) Chris Gayle &amp; Paul Collingwood Today’s Quiz: (1) Where and when was the first WI/ENG T20 International played in the WI? (2) Who were the captains involved? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS VAAL 08:05 hrs Storm Brasco 08:40 hrs Jet Dynasty 09:15 hrs Esquevelle 09:50 hrs Trapped Velice 10:25 hrs Law Of Success AMERICAN RACING TIPS AQUEDUCT Race 1 Dame Misconduct Race 2 Beautiful Karen Race 3 P Mutter Pickle Race 4 Icy Reply Race 5 Everyoneloveslinda Race 6 Give Me Kisses IRISH RACING TIPS NAAS 08:00 hrs Money Heist 08:35 hrs Quai De Bourbon 09:10 hrs Hillsdale 09:45 hrs Only By Night 10:20 hrs Maimie's Magic 10:55 hrs Poppy Rose 11:30 hrs Wing Men ENGLISH RACING TIPS TAUNTON 08:20 hrs lnside Man 08:55 hrs Fiercely Proud 09:30 hrs Ballfe 10:05 hrs Game Winner 10:40 hrs American Sniper 11:15 hrs Heros 11:50 hrs Gyllen CHELMSFORD CITY 13:30 hrs Bold Style 14:00 hrs Alfred 14:30 hrs Lord Normandy 15:00 hrs Penzance 15:30 hrs Mr Trick 16:00 hrs Fantastic Fox 16:30 hrs Kyle Of Lochalsh

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Hamilton scores on debut as city beat Red Star Belgrade

(BBC) - WINGER Micah Hamilton scored on a dream Manchester City debut as he helped his side beat Red Star Belgrade and reach the Champions League last 16 with a 100 per cent record. Hamilton, 20, has been with the club since the age of nine and put City ahead after 19 minutes in a hostile atmosphere in Serbia. Matheus Nunes found him down the right wing and Hamilton, who has represented England at under-16 level, got into the penalty area and shifted the ball to create space before powerfully firing into the roof of the net.

Micah Hamilton became the youngest English player (20 years, 30 days) to score on his Champions League debut since Marcus Rashford in 2017 for Manchester United (19 years, 316 days)

On a great night for City's academy, 20-year-old Oscar Bobb also scored his first goal for the club with a jinking run at the home defence, before curling in the second on 63 minutes. Hwang In-beom pulled one back for Red Star when he got free of marker Kalvin Phillips and shot low past Stefan Ortega. But Phillips made amends when he converted a penalty, after the impressive Hamilton had been fouled. Aleksandar Katai headed in a late second for Red Star, but reigning European champions City were not to be denied and follow in the

footsteps of Real Madrid to advance into the last 16 with six wins from six group matches. Pep Guardiola's side become only the second English team to achieve this, after Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool in 2021-22. The draw for the last 16 will be held at UEFA's headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland at 11:00 GMT on Monday, December 18. City will face one of the sides to have progressed as group runners-up, with one of their potential opponents being Inter Milan - the team they beat in last season's final.

Horner does not believe 2023 season will be repeated

(BBC) - TEAM principal Christian Horner says he does not believe Red Bull's 2023 season will be repeated in his lifetime. Max Verstappen won his third world title in October and recorded 19 victories. Sergio Perez won twice as Red Bull clinched 21 wins from 22 races to claim backto-back constructors' crowns. The Singapore Grand Prix was Red Bull's only defeat and Horner thinks the only way to improve next season is to win the "missing race". "This season, I doubt it will be repeated in my lifetime," the 50-year-old said at Red Bull's homecoming parade in Milton Keynes on Wednesday.

"It's the satisfaction of the whole thing coming together - all the departments. "They have worked so hard, so tirelessly across all these races around the world with the challenges that are thrown at you - the different types of circuit, the different conditions, different strategies and to see us having come through that and won 21 of 22 races." Verstappen's victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix in July was Red Bull's 12th in a row and moved them past the 11 consecutive wins achieved by McLaren in 1988. However, Horner does not believe his team will enjoy the same dominance next season.

(BBC) - LIV Golf chief executive Greg Norman says there will be "more apples falling from the tree" following Jon Rahm's decision to join the Saudi-funded tour. Rahm announced he would be leaving the PGA Tour for LIV earlier this month. The move represented a huge U-turn for the two-time major winner, who had previously ruled out joining LIV since its inaugural season in 2022. "To have Jon on board was critically important to

our future and what we want to do," Norman said. Speaking to World Business Report, Norman added: "It will create a domino effect, there will be more apples falling from the tree no question about it, because LIV continues to develop." Rahm, 29, said in 2022 that LIV's three-day events, with shotgun starts and no cut, were "not appealing" and he was chasing a golfing legacy over money. However, the Spaniard now joins other major winners on the breakaway tour including Brooks Koepka,

Sergio Perez, Christian Horner and Max Verstappen were greeted by 2,000 Red Bull staff at a Milton Keynes homecoming parade

"With such strong opposition as well, such strong

teams and stable regulations - I am sure next year is going

to be a lot closer, a lot tighter and a different kind of chal-

lenge," he said. Red Bull and Mercedes are the only teams to have won Formula 1's constructors' title since 2010, but Mercedes' British drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell failed to win a race this season and the team finished 451 points behind Horner's. "They are a great team - they have had a really dominant period, they are obviously having a tougher time at the moment, but I'm sure they will be coming back fully motivated next year we have no doubt about that," Horner said. "I'm sure the rivalry intensity will be just as strong as ever."

Jon Rahm's move to LIV Golf will make 'more apples fall from the tree', - Norman

Rahm won this year's Masters and the 2021 US Open

who won this year's US PGA Championship, 2022 Open champion Cam Smith and six-time major winner Phil

Mickelson. Rahm is reportedly set to earn upwards of £450m ($566.4m) as part of

his switch. Norman said Rahm's move has caused other players to consider signing for LIV. "Since Jon signed, less than a week ago now, I know my phone is blowing up," Norman said. "I know we probably have eight to 12 players who are very, very keen to sit down and talk to us about coming on board." However, Norman said he has not tried to get world number two Rory McIlroy, a staunch opponent of LIV, on board.

Critics say Saudi Arabia's unprecedented spending on sport has been used to improve the oil-producing kingdom's reputation over its human rights record and its environmental impact. Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia's sports minister said claims of sportswashing against the country are "very shallow". Australian Norman, a two-time major winner, said Saudi Arabia "really cares" about golf, adding that the animosity LIV has faced since its inception has been "disappointing".

England need to curb Windies ‘six-hitting’ –– Buttler

CMC – CAPTAIN Jos Buttler says England need to find a way to eliminate West Indies’ six-hitting capacity for the remainder of the Twenty20 International series. The tourists came under a sustained assault at the back end of Tuesday’s opener at Kensington Oval in Barbados as West Indies chased down 172 to win by four wickets and take a 1-0 lead in the fivematch series. With England sniffing a chance with the hosts tottering on 123 for six in the 15th over, captain Rovman Powell (31 not out) and Andre Russell (29 not out) both flexed their muscle in a 59-run, unbroken seventh wicket stand off 21 balls, to take their side over the line. Looking ahead to the two T20 Internationals here, Buttler said among the improvements to be made was stifling the six-hitting by West Indies. “Obviously at the back of our batting innings [it’s figuring out] how do we score more runs and how can we take away those six-hitting [capabilities] of West Indies,” Buttler said. “West Indies always seem to hit more sixes and fours. It’s just the style they play and we’ve got to find ways to minimise

that.” England also suffered at the hands of West Indies’ power-hitting in the preceding One-Day International series which they lost 2-1, with the likes of Shai Hope, Alick Athanaze and Romario Shepherd punishing the visitors. And on Tuesday night, West Indies belted more than twice the amount of sixes of England’s batsmen, with 14 to the visitors’ six. Despite the loss, Buttler said he wanted his side to continue playing fearless cricket. “We want to keep pushing the boundaries and trying to be as positive as we can; it’s finding the ways to keep scoring in that way,” he said. “[On Tuesday] … it got harder and harder, finding ways to minimise dot balls, pick off certain areas and obviously [scoring] that extra 20, 25 runs sometimes in an unfashionable way as well. That’s something we can reflect on. “We fought hard with the ball. Obviously the conditions got wet and changed quite a bit. West Indies hit some big sixes – that’s their trademark – so we have to find ways to close them down.” The second T20 International is set for Thursday at the National Stadium here.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Russell MoM performance gives West Indies series lead CMC – Man-of-the-Match Andre Russell made an instant impact with bat and ball in his first appearance for the West Indies in two years, as the home side staged the highest-ever successful run chase at Kensington Oval to beat England by four wickets here Tuesday night. In pursuit of 172 to win the opening Twenty20 International, West Indies overhauled their target with 11 balls to spare, to take the lead in the five-match series, which now heads to Grenada for a double-header starting Thursday. The 35-year-old Russell, a shock recall for this series, followed up his career-best three-wicket haul in the England innings with a 14-ball unbeaten 29 to ease the pressure at the end after the game appeared set for a tense finish. Arriving at the crease in the 15th over after the West Indies had lost wickets in successive deliveries following a break for rain, the right-hander blasted a brace of fours and sixes in a 49-run, unbroken seventh-wicket stand with captain Rovman Powell, whose unbeaten 31 required only 15 balls and included three fours and two sixes. Vice-captain Shai Hope chipped in with a top score of 36 off 30 balls while left-handed opener Kyle Mayers slammed 35 from 21 balls. “Life is so funny. When I got selected, I kept dreaming from two weeks now … and I was dreaming that in my first game, I would be Man-of-the-Match,” Russell said. “I didn’t know how it would happen, but I [kept] believing that it will happen and I give God thanks tonight.” His three for 19 from four overs of pace helped restrict England for 171 all out with three balls to spare, after they were sent in. Alzarri Joseph finished with three for 54 while fellow fast bowler Romario Shepherd produced an outstanding spell to pick up two for 24 from four overs. Phil Salt top-scored with 40 from 20 balls with half-dozen fours and a six as he gave the innings a flying start in a 77-run opening stand with captain Jos Buttler who made 39 from 31 balls with five fours and a six. Once Russell got Salt to hole out in the deep off the first ball of his spell in the fifth over, England spiralled thereafter and only Liam Livingstone showed any enterprise with a 19-ball 27, before Russell bowled him

Rain rescues Zimbabwe after Hume and Young trigger a collapse (ESPNCRICINFO) - Zimbabwe had started aggressively after being sent in to bat, with Tinashe Kamunhukamwe smashing 28 off just 15 balls. But once he got out, the innings fell apart. The continuous rain, though, meant the match had to be called off after only 25.3 overs. Earlier, Mark Adair got the ball to nip off the seam in both directions and even bowled a maiden to Joylord Gumbie. But from the other end, Kamunhukamwe took apart Josh Little. He hit three fours in the left-arm seamer’s first over, and a four and a six off successive deliveries in the next to move to 25 off just 10 balls. That forced Paul Stirling to bring on Graham Hume. Kamunhukamwe

tried to attack him as well but miscued a pull and was caught at mid-on for 28. The wicket put the brakes on the scoring rate, with Zimbabwe managing only 16 from overs sixth to 10th. Craig Young then bounced out Innocent Kaia to make it 48 for 2 in the 11th over. Sikandar Raza and Gumbie tried to stabilise the innings. Raza was lucky to be dropped on 10 by wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker when he chased a full and wide delivery from Little. But Little got his man soon after with the same ploy. The only difference being this time he was bowling from around the wicket. Gumbie had occupied one end but he was struggling to keep the scoreboard moving. In the 20th over, he

was run out after having a mix-up with Ryan Burl when both batters found themselves at the keeper’s end. Gumbie contributed 28 but consumed 59 balls for it. On the very next delivery, Burl also departed, under-edging Young to the keeper as Zimbabwe slipped from 79 for 2 to 81 for 5. Clive Madande and Brandon Mavuta added 40 off just 37 balls to take the side past 100 before Hume returned to castle Madande. Immediately after that, lightning forced players off the field. Soon, rain also made an appearance and brought a premature end to the contest. The second and third ODIs, to be played on Friday and Sunday, are also expected to be affected by rain.

off an inside edge at the start of the penultimate over. In reply, the West Indies flourished early through Mayers and Brandon King who made 22 from 12 balls, the pair posting 32 for the first wicket. When King was brilliantly taken at point by Ben Duckett off seamer Chris Woakes in the third over after belting two fours and two sixes, Hope combined in a 46-run second-wicket stand with Mayers to keep the innings ticking. Mayers, who lashed four sixes, eventually pulled leg-spinner Adil Rashid (2-25) into the deep to perish in the eighth over and Nicholas Pooran (13) followed in the 11th when he tugged a return catch to 19-yearold leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed (3-39). Pooran’s demise triggered a worrying slide that saw four wickets tumble for 23 runs in the space of 26 balls, West Indies slumping to 123 for six after Hope and Shepherd (0) fell to successive balls from Rehan Ahmed. But Powell counter-attacked with two backto-back sixes off off-spinner Livingstone at the end of the 16th, before Russell joined in with some hefty blows off Rashid, to erase any doubt over the outcome.

SCOREBOARD

ENGLAND P Salt c Hetmyer b Russell 40 J Buttler c Hetmyer b Hosein 39 W Jacks c King b Joseph 17 B Duckett c Hosein b Shepherd 14 H Brook c wkp Pooran b Holder 1 L Livingstone b Russell 27 S Curran c Joseph b Shepherd 13 C Woakes not out 3 Rehan Ahmed c Powell b Russell 1 A Rashid b Joseph 0 T Mills c wkp Pooran b Joseph 0 Extras (lb1, w13, nb2) 16 TOTAL (all out, 19.3 overs) 171 Fall of wickets: 1-77, 2-98 , 3-117, 4-120, 5-129, 6-165, 7-167, 8-169, 9-170, 10-171 Bowling: Hosein 4-0-32-1, Holder 4-0-43-1 (w4), Russell 4-0-19-3, Joseph 3.3-0-54-3 (w5, nb2). Shepherd 4-0-22-2 WEST INDIES B King c Duckett b Woakes 22 K Mayers c Brook b Rashid 35 S Hope c Brook b Rehan Ahmed 36 N Pooran c & b Rehan Ahmed 13 S Hetmyer c Duckett b Rashid 1 R Powell not out 31 R Shepherd c Curran b Rehan Ahmed 0 A Russell not out 29 Extras (lb1, w4) 5 TOTAL (6 wkts, 18.1 overs) 172 Did not bat: J Holder, A Hosein, A Joseph Fall of wickets: 1-32, 2-78, 3-100, 4-101, 5-123, 6-123 Bowling: Curran 2.1-0-23-0, Jacks 1-0-14-0, Woakes 2-0-15-1, Mills 3-0-34-0 (w4), Rehan Ahmed 4-0-39-3, Rashid 4-0-25-2, Livingstone 2-0-21-0 Result: West Indies won by four wickets. Series: West Indies lead five-match series 1-0. Man-of-the-Match: Andre Russell.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

One Guyana Premier league…

Regular season wraps up this Sunday

THE Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) One Guyana Premier League is reaching the business end of the competition and this Sunday following the final regular season matches, the playoffs matchups will be decided. A total of three highly anticipated matches are set for the National Gymnasium basketball court this Sunday, and despite some of the players on show will be repping Guyana against a Suriname National Club champions the previous night, the matches will be played. In the first match, which tips off at 17:00 hours, North Ruimveldt Black Caimans will match skills with Kwakwani Untouchables. In the second match that is scheduled to begin at 19:00 hours, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts will be pitted against McDoom/Prospect Kobras. Meanwhile, the feature contest will see the exciting Eagles basketball club and University of Guyana Trojans going head-

GFF announces plans for Blue Water girls’ development league

to-head. During the regular season, teams from the Jaguar and Harpy Eagle Conferences faced each other twice within their respective groups. The top four teams will progress to the playoffs, where the first-ranked team will compete against the fourth-ranked team, and the second-ranked team will take on the third-ranked team. The victors of these playoff matches will move on to the Conference Finals, where they will engage in a best-ofthree series to determine the finalists for the National Championship. The championship-winning team will receive a prize of $1 million, along with trophies, while the runners-up will be awarded $500,000 along with trophies. The successful execution of this tournament has been made possible through sponsorships from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, G-Boats Guyana, National Sports Commission, and Georgetown Basketball Federation.

KFC Goodwill Schools Football tournament

Four more matches on today

Some of the action during this year’s competition.

THE Blue Water Girls’ Under-15 Development League will run as a national tournament in 2024, providing a competitive platform for budding talents to exhibit their skills and contend for potential positions within the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) national team programme. Blue Water Shipping Senior Vice President of Sales and Development, Richard DeNobrega affirmed his company’s dedication to nurturing youth talent. In May 2022, the GFF and Blue Water Shipping collaboratively launched the first girls’ league aimed at nurturing young female footballers across Guyana.

Play between Eagles (possession) and Pepsi Sonics earlier in the season

Now, the league will mirror the recently concluded Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Power Under- 17 National Academy Playoff. GFF President, Wayne Forde, highlighted that the Guyanese football community has plenty to celebrate thanks to the extended partnership with Blue Water Shipping. “GFF’s focus on grassroots initiatives is crucial to our strategic plan to ensure the sustainable advancement of football. This initiative’s rollout in 2024 promises positive engagement from participating schools,” Forde noted.

FOUR more matches will take place in the 2024 edition of the KFC Football tournament later today. In the first of a double header set for Queens College ground Chase Academic foundation takes on Bartica from 13:30 hours with Carmel Secondary and VM04 clashing at 15:30 hours. From 18:00 hours the games shift to the Ministry of Education ground where Clarendon College plays St Ignatius while Waramdong and St Benedicts college clash from 20:00 hours. Tuesday evening’s first round of matches saw wins for Chase, Clarendon, Waramadong and St Benedicts.

Full results of round one Chase’s Academic Foundation 5 vs St. Ignatius Sec. School 2 (QC Ground) Chase`s Academic Foundation: ( B r y a n W h a r t o n 27th,30th,35th,51st) and Omar Sam 75th St.Ignatius Sec. School: Stephon Sprosta 28th, Caio

Demetro Paul 47th

Clarendon College 3 vs Bartica Sec. School 0 (QC Ground) Clarendon College: Chevon Watson (41st, 72nd), Nicholy Forbes (47th) St. Bendict Collage 9 vs VMO4 1 (Education Ground) St. Bendict College: Malachai Webb (6th, 8th, 38th, 45th), Jeremiah Nilles (10th, 42nd, 44th), Josiah Ochoa (16th), Nathan George (78th). VMO4: Justin Jackson (86th) Carmel Sec. 2 vs D.C. Caesar Fox Sec. 1 (Education Ground) Goal Scorers: Carmel Secondary Ian Daniels (16th, 43rd) D.C. Caesar Fox Sec. Anthonio Isaacs (45th)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 14, 2023

Russell MoM performance gives West Indies series lead See page 23

Andre Russell played a vital cameo with the bat•Dec 12, 2023•Getty Images

KFC Goodwill Schools Football tournament

Four more matches on today See page 23

Action at the Ministry of Education Ground between St. Benedict College of Trinidad and Suriname’s VMO4 (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208

| THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023