GUYANA and Peru have pledged to increase co-operation in the areas of energy, food security and climate change.
This is according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, which, in a press release, said that Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud recently met with the Peruvian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Peter Camino, in Lima.
During that meeting they discussed specific areas of ties between the two governments and
their people.
The ministry said that the government of Peru plans to expand its framework of co-operation with Guyana to enable greater collaboration in the mining, agriculture, tourism, and construction sectors among others, through direct investment and technical assistance initiatives.
“The Vice Foreign Minister noted Guyana’s leadership in the region as well as its commitment to advancing a number of issues of mutual interest both within the hemi -
spheric fora including in ACTO and the Brasilia Consensus, as well as at the multilateral sphere including the United Nations Security Council.
“Foreign Secretary Persaud took the opportunity to update the Peruvian Vice Foreign Minister on the current case before the International Court of Justice regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy,” the ministry said.
Guyana and Peru established diplomatic relations on July 17, 1971.
AIMING to bring significant changes to Guyana’s domestic violence laws and policies and provide increased protection for victims of family violence, the Family Violence Bill was recently laid in the national assembly.
The Family Violence Bill No. 11 of 2024 was presented at the 83rd sitting of the twelfth parliament by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud.
According to the bill’s explanatory memorandum, it seeks to make practical and philosophical changes to the entire landscape related to domestic violence laws and policies and as such, it proposes to repeal the current Domestic Violence Act Cap. 11:09 even as it retains several provisions from the said act.
“The first significant change which this bill seeks to achieve is an expansion of the kinds of violence it addresses and the categories of persons who are entitled to seek and obtain protection from the courts,” the explanatory memorandum detailed.
As such it was noted that domestic violence has been recognised as violence between current and former partners in intimate settings. This, it said is a limited definition and does not address the kinds of violence perpetuated on a daily basis and does not provide protection to persons from violence arising out of familial relationships.
As a result, this is the reason the term ‘family violence’ is being used and is an expansive term that relates to all forms of violence between family members.
The memorandum added, “It seeks to expand protection to more categories of persons. It is expected to reshape the landscape of laws providing protection. Persons who were never before able to seek protection would now be able to approach
the courts and receive protection from any or all forms of violence perpetuated by persons who fall to be considered ‘family’ members.”
Earlier this year, Dr Persaud told members of the media that when approved, the bill would replace the current Domestic Violence Act.
Against this backdrop, she indicated that the bill benefitted from widespread input through consultations from civil society and other stakeholders.
Further to this she explained that this new bill will facilitate more punitive measures and the removal of discretionary powers from the police so as to ensure that action is taken.
The Human Services Minister indicated that there is not a discretion that will be used in relation to when they act but once there is visible evidence of bodily harm, they [police officers] must take the report.
President Ali tells
By Naomi Parris
BILLIONS of dollars have been earmarked to rehabilitate roads in communities along the West Coast Demerara (WCD) corridor, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced while assuring residents that attention will be given to the drainage and irrigation infrastructure and recreational facilities across Region Three.
The Head of State on Sunday made these disclo-
smaller contractors, so we can get it done quickly and we will do the concrete roads,” he said.
In addition to this, several contracts have already been awarded to rehabilitate the main access road of some villages in the region.
The President further committed to improving drainage and irrigation in those communities.
Both at La Parfaite Harmonie and Dem Amstel, residents highlighted the
ter pressure in the area, the President requested that they be patient as works are underway to improve this.
The government has invested $1.18 billion in a new water treatment plant at Onderneeming, which is on track for commissioning by the end of 2024.
One of the primary concerns to be addressed by the new plant is the high iron content in the water, which has been a persistent issue affecting residents’ health
sures while engaging residents of La Parfaite Harmonie and Dem Amstel.
“Between Windsor, Onderneeming, Westminster [in] those three areas alone with the roads that we are picking up on the 75 per cent occupancy, we are talking about an investment of over one billion dollars…close to $1.5 billion. So, that is to tell you the amount of resources that have to be spent to do these roads…it’s a lot of small roads,” he said.
President Ali who walked around the communities meeting and listening to the concerns of residents despite the raining conditions, explained that the government is now working along with the regional democratic bodies to begin the mobilisation for several of the infrastructure works.
The aim is to hire small contractors to complete the rehabilitation of community roads and streets in a timely manner.
“We want to use the
need for improved drainage maintenance, streetlights and the revitalisation of community spaces.
In response, the President disclosed that the government will continue to work closely with citizens and their respective regional bodies to improve lives and further advance community development.
“A lot of communities that we are going to now, the young people are very keen on agriculture.
You know of all the progress and development that is taking place in the region and across the country. Your children are beneficiaries, the elderly are beneficiaries,” he said.
WATER WOES
In addition to the massive road works, the government is also working to improve access to safe potable water in those communities.
And although residents voiced concerns of low wa-
and daily lives.
The ongoing advancements in the water treatment infrastructure underscore the Guyana government’s commitment to ensuring essential services reach every corner of the country, promoting health, economic growth, and community resilience.
Officials from the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) on Sunday told residents that the new plant is 65 per cent complete.
In addition to this, transmission lines are being constructed to ensure that there is an efficient water supply. Works on these are 90 per cent complete.
The entire project is expected to be completed by December.
President Ali was accompanied by Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia
PRESIDENT Joe Biden said on Sunday he has ordered a review of federal security surrounding Republican Donald Trump, his rival in the 2024 election, after Trump was wounded and a spectator was killed at a political rally in Pennsylvania.
The suspected shooter evaded Secret Service agents tasked with protecting Trump and climbed onto the roof of a building near where Trump was speaking and fired multiple shots before being killed by law enforcement agents.
Speaking at the White House, Biden said he had directed the Secret Service to review all security measures in place for the Republican National Convention
in Milwaukee this week where Trump will be formally nominated as the party’s presidential candidate to face Biden in the November 5 election.
In addition, he said he had ordered “an independent
review of the national security at yesterday’s rally to assess exactly what happened.” He said the results would be shared with the American people.
Biden said the FBI’s investigation into the incident was in its early stages and he has ordered it to be thorough and swift.
“I urge everyone, everyone please, don’t make assumptions about his motives or affiliations. Let the FBI do their job and their partner agencies do their job,” he said.
Republican lawmakers said they would investigate the Secret Service role as well, with some blaming the perceived agency lapses on Biden. Political violence has risen in the U.S. in recent years, with most of the deadly attacks coming from right-wing groups and individuals.
Biden, a Democrat, has been locked in a bitter campaign battle with former President Trump ahead of the November 5 election, and said he would address the American people on Sunday night on the need for unity. His campaign quickly switched tactics after the shooting, pulling advertisements criticising Trump.
“Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right now - unity. We’ll debate and we’ll disagree. That’s not going to change. But we’re not going to lose sight of who we are as Americans,” he said. (Reuters)
SEEKING to amend Guyana’s longstanding Matrimonial Causes Act to reform the law relating to spousal maintenance, proposed amendments to the act were last week laid in the National Assembly.
The Matrimonial Causes (Amendment) Bill No. 10 of 2024 was presented during the 83rd sitting of the twelfth parliament by the Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall S.C.
According to the explanatory memorandum of the act, it reforms the existing act by removing existing discriminatory provisions to bring the law into conformity with certain fundamental rights guaranteed under the constitution.
Section 14 of the Principal Act states that on the dissolution or nullity of marriage, the court may order that a husband must pay maintenance or alimony to a wife.
“This provision was held by the High Court to
be discriminatory based on the grounds of sex and gender as it does not
provide that a wife may be ordered to pay maintenance or alimony to a
–– to make way for men to apply for spousal support in divorce proceedings
husband,” the explanatory memorandum stated.
As a result, that provision is said to be in violation of Articles 149 and 149D of Guyana’s constitution which speaks to discrimination on various grounds including sex and gender and equality before the law respectively.
The intended amendment follows a ruling by Chief Justice (AG) Roxane George-Wiltshire, who recently deemed Section 14 of the Matrimonial Causes Act, Chapter 45:02 discriminatory based on sex and gender, as it exclusively permitted wives to obtain maintenance post-divorce.
The outcome emerged when a divorced man contested the prevailing legal structure after being barred from seeking maintenance from his ex-wife.
The Chief Justice highlighted that the cur-
rent stipulations of the Matrimonial Causes Act unjustly discriminated against men, contravening constitutional mandates against sex and gender-based discrimination.
Meanwhile, the amendments laid in the National Assembly once passed, will significantly influence future divorce proceedings in the country and promote a fair approach to post-marital financial support.
Earlier this year, the Attorney General highlighted that the amendment underscores the government’s commitment to legal equity and further the nation’s commitment to gender neutrality in legal rights and responsibilities.
This further mirrors the evolving societal values and the importance of upholding individual rights without gender bias.
FOR some time now, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and members of his Cabinet have been pleading with contractors to get their house in order and to execute government projects with the alacrity they deserve.
These persons would have signed contacts committing to execute projects within a specified period. Yet many of these projects which are funded by tax-payers’ money, are way behind schedule and the pleads and warnings of this government seems to have fallen on deaf ears.
Not so long ago, President Ali handed down a directive to enforce liquidated damages on contractors for delayed projects. Many of these projects involve road works and the delays are a great inconvenience to the travelling public and to the persons living in those areas.
It has been repeatedly said that the government’s focus is on expanding,
rehabilitating and modernising the country’s public infrastructure as part of the development trajectory, the transformation of the socio-economic landscape and the improvement of the lives of Guyanese living in every part of the country.
The President’s resolute stance against contractors’ non-performance is not merely a display of authority, but a fundamental commitment to accountability and efficient governance.
The decision to issue that directive came at a crucial juncture when Guyana is focused on transformative infrastructural projects aimed at enhancing the nation’s socio-economic landscape. This remains an ongoing priority area for government.
The journey towards realising the above-mentioned aspirations has been marred by persistent delays and setbacks. Such instances have not only eroded public trust and caused unnec-
essary inconvenience, but they have also adversely affected the country’s development momentum.
Contractors have been publicly warned of the government’s intention to rigorously enforce contractual clauses, including liquidated damages and terminate contacts if necessary.
But it seems that contractors have somehow convinced themselves that President Ali, Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall and Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, are not serious about taking action; that they are merely uttering words to appease the public and will give them a second chance when they screw up. However, President Ali’s recent utterings on the matter should be enough to dispel such thoughts and conclusions.
On Saturday, he visited Zeelugt and Meten-Meer-Zorg in Region Three, and to his shock he was met with delayed
infrastructure works. The President’s outrage was fueled by the fact that in Zeelugt, the contractor and the engineer were nowhere to be seen.
It was pointed out that some of the roads in the community were in such a deplorable state that persons could not traverse them.
During his visit to Meten-MeerZorg, he was told that one contractor was some six months behind on an infrastructure project.
How can these situations be fair? How can a contactor ignore the pleads and warnings of the persons he/she is working for?
The President’s latest comments on this issue should not be ignored.
Contractors doing government projects have been given fair warning. They need to fall in line and prioritise not only getting the work done promptly, but ensuring that it is of the best quality.
Dear Editor,
THE ill-placed critique on cost-of-living increases fails to consider the full picture of a government that has acted with empathy and strategic foresight, absorbing many costs through the Treasury to keep living expenses manageable for all Guyanese.
It is astonishing how the opposition and certain sections of the media continue to propagate a narrative that ignores our government’s Herculean efforts and strategic measures to shield Guyanese from the worst effects of global inflation.
The government’s comprehensive approach has safeguarded our economy and enhanced the well-being of our people in these challenging times.
We tend to forget that during the
COVID-19 pandemic, the price of every commodity escalated due to halted production. For instance, when Indonesia and Malaysia stopped exporting oil, the price of cooking oil surged by 300 per cent. This increase’s domino effect resulted in the cost of shipping a 40-foot container from China skyrocketing from US$3,500 to US$20,000.
Global conflicts like the war in Ukraine and unrest in the Red Sea further strained the global supply chain, driving costs higher. Despite these external pressures, our government led by Dr. Irfaan Ali, maintained an inflation rate below the regional average that was no accident. This stability is a direct result of strategic interventions and substantial treasury expenditures.
While other countries have faced massive increases in transportation and utility costs, Guyanese were insulated against such
occurrences because the Guyana Power and Light Ltd (GPL) was allocated a large subsidy by the central government, a decision that positively impacted both the business community and ordinary citizens.
Similarly, the government made significant efforts to reduce the cost of the burden of fuel by removing a 50 per cent excise tax on gasoline and diesel, saving the population US$384 million annually. This tax relief translated into a savings of approximately GY$500 per gallon of fuel, significantly reducing transportation costs and thus the overall cost of living.
The government has indicated that since taking office, they have increased wages, salaries, and benefits by $90 billion while pensioners now receive $20 billion more annually and over 60,000 new jobs have been added, turning economic despair into
opportunity. Every part-time worker, every pensioner, every new job holder – that’s real, tangible income in the hands of Guyanese.
These are just a few examples of how the government has mitigated the impact of global economic pressures on the local economy. This government has managed the complexities of global inflation, not with empty promises, but with strategic, people-focused actions.
Every time one buys fuel, pay their electricity bill, or turn on the tap, just know that government is working tirelessly behind the scenes, absorbing costs to shield you from economic hardships – a triumph for Guyanese.
IN a bid to create meaningful job opportunities for young people, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced plans to construct a block-making facility at Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara.
The Head of State made the commitment after speaking with residents, who requested a project in the community during an engagement on Saturday.
President Ali also ‘pitched’ small business agricultural initiatives to residents during his visit.
Additionally, he announced that several road upgrades and rehabilitation will be undertaken in the coming days.
Back in 2021, in keeping with government’s promise of job creation, the Ministry of Housing and Water, launched its $20 million pilot Community-based Employment Stimulation Project (CESP).
The initiative, which is the brainchild of President Irfaan Ali, was conceptualised with the goal
of creating block-making jobs in several vulnerable communities in Regions Three, Four, Six and 10.
The initiative, according to the ministry, comes not just as a job creation platform, but also a platform for the creation of new entrepreneurs in the block-making industry.
Since assuming office in 2020, President Ali has led numerous community outreaches across the country, and, while engaging residents along the West Coast Demerara corridor, the Head of State has highlighted that the hallmark of the People’s Progressive Party/C (PPP/C) government stands on fulfilling its mandate to the people.
“The PPP has always been a party that is national in nature. We don’t see colour, we don’t see religion, we don’t see ethnicity. We see Guyana; we see Guyanese and we
President Ali on Saturday engaged residents of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara. After listening to their concerns, he made several commitments to create job opportunities and enhance the community’s infrastructure (Office of the President photo)
have always worked in the interest of Guyanese,” said President Ali recently. He stressed that the
Dear Editor,
IT was amusing to see several retired military officers who had mutinied against their erstwhile Commander-in-Chief in order to unseat him as PNC Leader in the 2021 congress had themselves been unseated from that party’s central committee in the 2024 congress. The army pensioners should learn four laws of political survival.
First, they broke the iron law of common sense by becoming involved in an internal party intrigue without the support of their own independent political constituency and by ignoring the fact that their elevation to the PNC’s central committee had been achieved not by their own effort but by being co-opted onto someone else’s successful slate.
Second, they broke the party’s internal code of respect by attacking the party leader but, by so doing, damaged in the minds of party diehards any prospect they might have
had to be considered fit for a leadership position in the PNC.
Third, they broke their military code of honour by attacking their former Commander-in-Chief and forgetting that their own conduct in the army during the crime spree on the East Coast under the PPP regime was far from stellar.
Finally, they seem to have forgotten that they served under a Commander-in-Chief who has remembered their military performance and who has commented publicly about it. The pensioners should learn that military rank is not necessarily a guarantee of public trust. Trust is not a privilege of status; it has to be earned.
The pensioners should reflect on these laws and lessons on their path to political oblivion.
Your respectfully, Frank S Grant
PPP/C government does not believe in racial barriers but rather in working for all Guyanese.
As such, he highlighted a number of policies that the government has outlined to support the livelihoods of Guyanese.
“We have placed back in the pockets of the children of this region, 3.4 billion [dollars]. If this government was not in place, your children would have never gotten that 3.4 billion that we put back in their pockets.”
The government, he
noted, is spending almost $400 billion on the school grants to ensure that all institutions are fully equipped.
In 2024 alone, the government has constructed new schools in Canal Number One, Bagotstown, Parfaite Harmonie, Nismes and Vreed-en-Hoop.
Additionally, to enhance the region’s infrastructure, the government is spending $31 billion on community roads.
This, according to him, will see residents building their household wealth.
Further, he noted that while the government is building massive throughfares, residents could look forward to seeing another 20,000 house lots being allocated in the West Bank Demerara area.
The region, he added, is abuzz with economic activity and residents can look forward to seeing massive opportunities being unlocked with the new power plant, an industrial plant, manufacturing plant and a new port facility.
By Vanessa Cort
IT is now constantly in the news and that is a good thing. More and more people from all walks of life, particularly the rich and famous, are publicly admitting to mental health challenges.
In so doing, they are breaking down the wall of silence around mental health and also helping to erase the taboo which has prevented so many from speaking out.
In recent years athletes have perhaps been the most vocal about the depression and anxiety which has plagued them as a result of the pressure of their sport.
They, more than any other group, have been quelling the myth that they are superhuman and immune to the emotions which affect all of us from time to time.
It has been an ‘eye-opener’, not only for the general public, but for those who run athletics groups and organisations and are guilty of not paying sufficient attention to the mental health of their sports personalities.
Athletes have openly admitted that the decision to let others know of their emotional issues was not an easy one. They, like so many of our wider population, have been assailed with feelings of inadequacy, and the very real fear that they may be considered either insane or on the verge of insanity.
The most decorated Olympian of all time, American swimmer, Michael Phelps, was one of the first to confess to the world his mental health problems.
The winner of 23 gold medals described how he fought depression and anx-
iety for 17 years, but only revealed it six years ago.
“We’re supposed to be big, macho, physically strong human beings, “ he told a publication. So, he thought of his condition as a weakness and was reluctant to admit it even to himself.
At his lowest point, Phelps even considered suicide, with his worst episode occurring after the London Olympics in 2012. Though he won two silver and four gold medals he suffered a ‘crash’ where his success did little to buoy his spirits.
“ I didn’t want to be in the sport any more...I didn’t want to be alive”, he said.
Other Olympians have admitted to similar feelings following the Games. The intense competitive pressure, media visibility and physical exertion are followed by a mental slump into depression.
Now, on the eve of the Paris Olympics starting July 26, sports committees are voicing concerns about the mental health of their athletes and attempting to address the issue.
The French have announced plans to have psychologists present at the Games to deal with the emotional problems experienced not only by their athletes but other team members.
And the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has developed a Mental Health Action Plan, acknowledging that “ athletes’ mental health is as important for their performance and well-being as their physical health needs, and that good mental health means much more than the absence of mental health symptoms or disorder”.
A decade ago, athletes and celebrities mostly kept their mental health battles hidden, because such admissions damaged their image and career.
Thankfully this is no longer the case. The Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic has said: “It’s a positive cycleevery time someone is brave enough to speak out, awareness grows, and the world becomes a more welcoming place to people with mental illness”.
And in a statement showing how much he has regained his self-esteem, gold medalist Phelps declared, after seeking therapy, “For the longest time I thought asking for help was a sign of weakness because that’s kind of what society teaches us.
Well, you know what? If someone wants to call me weak for asking for help, that’s their problem, because I’m saving my own life”.
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips held an impromptu meeting at the Watooka Guest House in Linden with key stakeholders to address the severe flooding in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
During that meeting, he assured local and regional entities of the government’s readiness to collaborate and provide support to tackle the ongoing flooding issues in the region.
The stakeholders present at the meeting included Jermaine Figuera, Opposition Member of Parliament, and Lennox Gasper, Clerk of the Linden Town Council, among other representatives.
Prime Minister Phillips said it was very essential to put aside political differences and work collectively to address the current challenges.
He also highlighted the urgency of repairing criti-
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips
cal infrastructure, including cleaning and clearing all drainage systems in the region, particularly around the town.
“Let’s have a comprehensive plan coming out from this committee that is formed and the Town Council and the Regional
Democratic Council; these are things that we have to move forward and the government (will) support you,” the PM stated.
Addressing the local authorities’ lack of preparedness for the rainy season, Prime Minister Phillips stressed that the
government serves as a facilitator at the central government level, making necessary resources available as requested by the region.
“Central, regional and local governments must work together. If the private sector or the stakeholders want to jump onboard, no
problem. The focus is preparing the infrastructure,” he underscored.
There are also plans for a future meeting between Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, and stakeholders to further discuss the issues and collaborate on effective solutions.
In conclusion, Figueira expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for convening the meeting and assured that the matters discussed would be brought to the attention of the regional disaster committee for further action and follow-up. (DPI)
TO continue to foster academic achievement within the community of Mocha/Arcadia along the East Bank Corridor, a literacy summer camp was launched on Saturday.
The Mocha Forward Group Summer Literacy Camp 2024 was launched at the Mocha Primary School and saw scores of children and their parents
attending to sign up for the programme.
Sessions will officially commence on Monday for pupils of Grades Three to Five from 08:30 hrs to 13:30 hrs.
It includes interactive academic activities such as phonics, spelling, reading and reasoning, vocabulary, arts and crafts, and sports.
While launching the camp, Minister of Par -
liamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira noted that such programmes are important for the development of the young lives within the communities.
She added that summer camps help to educate the children in a more fun and creative way.
“Over the years we have been looking at education as being in the
classroom. But education is really about learning, fun, and imagination. And so, the summer camps allow us to do these things in a really creative way. It also helps us to build curiosity among these children,” the minister stressed.
Minister Teixeira encouraged the parents to take part in the development of their children’s welfare and to work with them both in and out of the classrooms.
Also present was Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag who urged the children to focus primarily on boosting their literacy, as it consists of both reading and comprehension.
She noted that those two areas are ideal for transforming lives especially at such a young age.
“This initiative is to not only give you that boost in academics but is to give you that boost as a young child, to grow up and achieve your goals and aspirations. The idea is also for you to learn, not in a confined area but in a recreational space,” Minister Parag stated.
The five-week programme which is a private-government partner-
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, speaks at the launching of the
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development,
ship will see the children involved in both indoor and outdoor learning. They will also be taken on a bus tour, and participate in sports.
At the end, there will also be an award ceremony where each child will receive a certificate for participating in the robust literacy capacity-building programme. (DPI)
WHILE emphasising the useful lessons that can be had from the sacrifices made by fallen police ranks, Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, called on the senior ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to work collectively to effectively lead those under their charge.
He made these remarks at the Guyana Police Force’s annual wreath-laying ceremony for fallen police officers, held at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary,
During his speech, Minister Benn called on the force’s leadership to command respect, lead with integrity, continue to coach and take care of the junior ranks and to look after their welfare.
“The efforts of policing, while it is collective in nature, of course, given the fact that it is a discipline service, requires significant leadership and continuous leadership interventions and that leadership has to be done throughout the ranks to get the recompense in terms of service [and] the quantity and quality of that service in respect of policing,” he said.
He stated that with regard to their response to the tremendous and difficult circumstances which people in the joint services, especially the Guyana Police Force face today, steadfastness, resoluteness, preparedness, and leadership are important.
To further preserve the memory of police officers who would have passed on while serving their country, Minister Benn mentioned that he would like to see memorials placed in Regional Police Divisions across Guyana to honour them.
Moreover, the minister pointed out that development will not take place when there
is violence and threats, and people who may want to ‘reduce’ the state.
“It is the important work of the Guyana Police Force to stand as protectors of the people and of the country along with the other joint services,” he said.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken stated that policing embodies a noble calling characterised by courage, selflessness and resilience.
“Whether stationed in our local neighbourhoods or deployed on diverse assignments, our officers courageously face danger to uphold justice with steadfast dedication. Despite encountering challenges in working with resource constraints, they persistently endeavour to protect our communities and uphold the principles of law and order,” Commissioner Hicken noted.
He highlighted that, in Guyana, there are unique challenges which include resources often being stretched thin.
He said that even though these difficulties exist, the dedication of officers has never faltered.
“In times of tragedy, the Guyana Police Force will always stand united, offering unwavering support to our fallen heroes and grieving families. The Guyana Police Force even with limited resources strives to provide meaningful support to the families of our fallen heroes through our Fallen Heroes Foundation.
“The foundation has assisted the families and members of the force who have lost their lives in the line of duty. In our commitment to honour their sacrifices, we have provided counselling sessions to
families grappling with the unimaginable pain of loss of a loved one in the line of duty,” he noted.
He mentioned that the GPF plans to walk with families every step of the way as they journey through emotional healing.
In addition to counselling, the GPF also offers financial assistance to families and support the education of children of the men and women who have passed on. The force also sponsors the wakes and funerals of the deceased.
According to Commissioner Hicken, while these efforts cannot fully compensate for the efforts of the fallen, they will remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting the families.
Some of the names of the fallen heroes of the GPF include Constable 5527 Claude Allen who was shot aback of Reliance Canje Berbice in 1952 while escorting a payroll; Corporal 4683 Edgar Ben and Constable 4733 Henry Chester who were both shot by notorious criminal, Clement Cuffy at Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo in 1959; Sergeant 5065 Clarence Bacchus who was shot while investigating a report of burglary in Albouystown, Georgetown in 1961; Superintendent Dereck McLeod, who was shot in 1962 by an unidentified sniper in Robb Street, Georgetown during Black Friday riots.
Among others who were honoured was Woman Constable 25925 Annette Abel who was performing duties in 2023 on the Beterverwagting Public Road, when she was struck down by a drunk driver who lost control of his vehicle and crashed into her and another rank. Abel was killed.
Bharrat Jagdeo has urged the business community in Region Two to explore the possibility of launching a private ferry service.
This suggestion was made in response to a complaint from a local businessman about the prolonged time the current ferry takes to moor at the wharf.
Dr Jagdeo held a special meeting with the business community during a recent outreach to the region. He was accompanied by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Local
Government and Regional Development, Sonia Praag; Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, and Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha.
Dr. Jagdeo, in his response, encouraged the sizeable gathering of entrepreneurs to collaborate and establish the privately-owned ferry service.
Meanwhile, as he addressed the business community, he assured the members that the government was willing to offer incentives, including waiving duties on the vessels if they decide to bring a ferry service into
operation.
“If you get some businessmen to invest in this or form a company, we will give you tax-free status and assist you in other ways,” Jagdeo stated.
He emphasised that the venture does not have to be on a large scale. According to him, smaller, faster, and safe vessels would suffice.
The businessmen and women were assured of the government’s commitment to supporting such a private initiative.
Additionally, the VP said that the government was willing to work with the private sector to continue to expand the Region Two
economy.
“We should explore this; we will remove the tax. So, get a group together, and we, the government, will support that,” Dr. Jagdeo reiterated.
He suggested that while the current ferry could continue to transport vehicles and cargo, the new private
ferry could focus on carrying a few vehicles and the majority of passengers.
Additionally, the private service would be allowed to use the stelling for mooring.
The business community responded positively to the suggestion, with several businessmen already ex -
pressing interest in such a venture.
They said that additional river transportation in and out of the region will boost tourism and business. Currently the tourism sector is growing with many tourists visiting the region on a regular basis.
A 53-year-old widow, Shamdai Pumu of Mahaica, Region Four and her two grandchildren are the latest beneficiaries of a house constructed through President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s Men on Mission (MoM) initiative.
According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), the woman’s previous living condition was deplorable and it created many problems for her.
“We were living bad… Underneath my bed had water and mud,” Pumu noted.
Pumu explained that her niece assisted her in writing a letter to MoM to build a new home for her family.
Now that she has a new home, she tearfully expressed gratitude for the assistance from the Men on Mission, “This has now changed my life because I have a home to live in and we are happy,” she said according to the DPI.
Pumu, who is currently unemployed due to her illness, mentioned that she struggles at times to provide for her family.
“It is really hard to look after two grandchildren and send them to school,” she added.
The DPI said that to support her household, she cultivates various crops which she then sells at the Mon
Repos market.
Already, the MoM has handed over nine homes across the country.
Meanwhile, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, in remarks before handing over the keys, underscored that the MoM has embarked on numerous impactful initiatives.
According to the minister, these include the construction of houses for vulnerable families and the Youth Empowerment and Mentorship Programme.
“The one that makes very quick impact is this programme where we identify persons in our community who for one reason or anoth-
er becomes very vulnerable. We can change their circumstances with relatively little by providing them with a home. We have transformed the way they live, their family and the community,” the health minister said.
He said that this new
home would have a significant impact on Ms Pumu’s standard of living.
“She is one of those persons who deserve a home. She has two grandchildren who are living with her and I am sure that this will certainly change the circumstances for all of them,” he highlighted. Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham, Committee Members of the MoM, Roger Rogers, Dr Daniel Josh Kanhai and other representatives were also present at the ceremony. (DPI)
By Telesha Ramnarine
WHEN 35-year-old single parent mother Giselle Denny started her small business, she never fully appreciated the task of preparing financial statements. She had to rely solely on an accountant to complete what she thought was a daunting component of the business.
Thanks to her recent participation in the ‘Road to Growth’ programme, though, Denny is in a better position now to prepare her own statements for her ‘GoLive Projects’ business. As a young business woman, she signed up because she recognised that she did not have all of the knowhow to effectively manage the business.
ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc., in partnership with the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women and ExxonMobil Foundation, celebrated the graduation of Denny and dozens of
other women from the programme a few days ago.
Since its inception in 2021, the ‘Road to Growth’ programme has empowered women entrepreneurs in Guyana, providing them with essential business development and financial literacy skills.
“The biggest take away for me was the accounting component of it. I have an accountant do that for me and I trust their judgement implicitly but by means of this course, I can now review the financial statements and even prepare them myself,” Denny shared with Guyana Chronicle, adding, “I can look at a statement and translate it into actions that can fix issues.”
As a single parent who also works fulltime and is an MBA student, Denny also learnt the art of time management and the benefits of digital marketing.
To fellow business owners, she offered this bit of
advice: “The only thing that’s stopping you from achieving your business goals is you. We just need to make that start, put in the effort. As the saying goes, ‘short term pain, long term gain’ and once we make that start, we stick to it and take the challenges as they come. Eventually, we overcome these and we are able to land ourselves where we want to be.”
Channey Wong, owner of Mommy and Me Gy, is another participant who graduated from the programme.
In the seven weeks of training, she said they were given the tools to not just develop entrepreneurial skills. “We were given case studies and projects to help us analyse problems, devise solutions, plan efficiently and to work effectively along with our team.”
As a mom and business owner with a 9 to 5 job, she explained that it was challenging to juggle it all. However, she was able to create a work life balance. “Proper planning helped a lot with this and keeping a daily log of my task and making weekly goals.”
According to her, the facilitators also supported the mothers in the programmes by providing child care services to ensure no one had to miss class in the event that they had no other arrangement for child care.
Her word of encouragement to fellow small business owners: “Do understand that the journey ahead would be challenging but it is also rewarding beyond measure. Each setback is a lesson and a stepping stone that brings you closer to your goal.”
Apart from Denny and Wong, throughout the cere-
mony, personal testimonials from participants highlighted the transformative journey they experienced during the programme. Their stories underscored the programme’s effectiveness in developing business acumen, leadership qualities, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit among women.
First Lady Arya Ali commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance, emphasising the crucial role of women in society and pledging her support for gender parity and women’s empowerment initiatives.
Cherie Blair praised the participants for their entrepreneurial endeavours and their impact on local communities. “These women are not just creating businesses; they are fostering economic growth and providing essential services,”
Channey
she remarked.
The ‘Road to Growth’ programme addresses the specific business development and financial liter-
acy needs of women who own small business. It has been successfully delivered annually in Guyana since 2021.
THE Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department has launched an investigation into a fatal industrial accident that occurred on Saturday at Windsor Estate, East Bank Demerara.
According to a press
release, the deceased has been identified as Maniram Navindralall, a truck driver of Lot 59 Patentia, West Bank Demerara. It was reported that the deceased was hired to pick up and deliver four crates of concrete blocks in Windsor Estate at a private property. Howev-
er, while offloading the blocks, the vehicle came into contact with a 13,800 volts primary network, resulting in him being electrocuted.
Assistant Chief OSH Officer, Royden Croal, and GPL OSH Officer, Kulanand Persaud, visited the scene after re -
ports were made and an investigation began to determine the cause of the accident, as well as to provide recommendations to prevent future recurrences.
Meanwhile, it was stated that Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, continues to express
grave concern about the increased occurrences of workplace injuries and accidents.
Minister Hamilton holds the view that when a worker leaves his/her home and goes to work, there is an expectation by his/her family that he/she will return home safely at
the end of the work day or work period.
He stated that every effort should be made to ensure that workers are protected on the job. With that in mind, the minister extends his sympathies to the affected persons as investigations continue.
IN a thrilling display of intellectual prowess and oratorical finesse, two formidable teams faced off in the final round of the Guyana Police Force’s Justice Horace Mitchell Debate Competition on Saturday night at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, Georgetown.
The competition saw the sharp-witted and eloquent Regional Division 4’C debaters defeating their equally talented counterparts from Traffic Headquarters.
The debate topic was “Drinking and Driving: Police presence outside of entertainment hotspots such as bars, restaurants, hotels, etc., in every Region increases the police ability to prevent incidents of drunk driving and decrease fatal accidents.”
The Traffic Headquarters team, led by Corporal Timothy Roberts, Woman Constable Luckie Providence, and Constable Alex McPherson, argued passionately for the implementation of increased police presence in entertainment hotspots to combat the scourge of drunk driving.
In a brilliant display of logical reasoning, the Regional Division 4’C’ team, led by sharp-witted Woman
Sergeant Oxana Johnson, Woman Corporal Makisha Jordan, and Constable Kenrick Philips, presented a compelling case against the proposition.
They argued that such a measure would be an ineffective and heavy-handed approach and reasoned that a more holistic and comprehensive community-based solution was needed to address the root causes of drunk driving.
As the debate progressed, the teams engaged in a thrilling rebuttal round, where they skillfully dismantled each other’s arguments and presented counter-arguments that left the audience on the edge of their seats.
However, Woman Corporal Makisha Jordan of Region 4’C’, with her quick wit and sharp analysis, managed to poke holes in Traffic Headquarters’ proposing arguments, allowing her team to emerge victorious. Constable Kenrick Philips was also awarded the ‘Best Speaker’ accolade.
The debate competition served as a testament to the intellectual prowess of members of the Guyana Police Force and the importance of fostering an environment that
encourages the free exchange of ideas and the pursuit of knowledge. It also highlighted the critical role that law enforcement plays in addressing the complex issue of drunk driving and the need for a multifaceted approach that combines enforcement, education, and community engagement.
The debate was judged by a distinguished panel of judges with impressive academic backgrounds, including Dr Dexter Philips, PhD, EdD, MBA, CSML; Ms Ashme Singh, LL.B, ACCA, LL.M, and Mr Chevy Devonish, LL.B, BSc.
Among those in the audience were the Commissioner of Police, Mr Clifton Hicken; Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ Mr. Ravindradat Budhram; Head of Operations, Assistant Commissioner Errol Watts; Head SOCU, Assistant Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh; Commander Region 4’A’, Assistant Commissioner Simon McBean; Commander Region #5, Assistant Commissioner Kurleigh Simon; Commander Region #6, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus; Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra
Singh; Commander Region #1, Senior Superintendent Himnauth Sawh; Commander Region #8, Senior Superintendent Khalid Mandall; Commander Region 4’B’, Superintendent Krishna Ramana; Commander Region #2, Superintendent Khemraj Shivbarran; Head of the I.T. Department, Senior Superintendent Jermaine Johnson along with other senior and
junior members of the Force and special invitees.
Impressed by the level of competition, Commissioner Hicken commended the members of the teams for their efforts, noting that they would have performed their duties and still found time to do research.
During his brief address, the Top Cop also announced that the debate competition
would be held quarterly instead of yearly, from the level of Constable to Superintendent.
He noted that this would build the capacity of members within the organisation and improve their public speaking skills, which is important for policemen and women when they interact with members of the public. (GPF)
Migrant children are benefitting from English Language classes through the Ministry of Education’s Migrant Education Support Unit (MESU)
THE Ministry of Education’s Migrant Education Support Unit (MESU) has announced an extension of its English as a Second Language (ESL) after-school classes for an additional two weeks, from July 8 to 19. This initiative is aimed at learners in Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Seven and Nine and Georgetown.
In a press release, the ministry said that these engaging classes are designed to enhance English language skills through fun and interactive activities.
Shanti Bisnauth, Coordinator of the MESU, emphasised that the primary goal of the ESL programme is to eliminate language barriers that hinder students and to foster inclusion for all learners enrolled in government schools.
The schools participating in the two-week ESL classes include: Yarakita Primary, White Water Primary, Wauna Primary, Hosororo Primary, Mabaruma Primary, St. Peter and Paul Primary and Port Kaituma Primary in Region One and Taymouth Manor Primary, Charity Primary and Fisher Primary in Region Two.
For Region Three the participating schools are Blake Primary, Parika Salem Primary, Parika Salem Secondary, Vergenoegen Secondary, Tuschen Primary, Victoria Lily Primary, Greenwich Park Primary, Philadelphia Primary, Meten-Meer-Zorg Primary, De William Secondary, Zeelugt Primary, Leonora Primary, Leonora Secondary, Windsor Forest Primary, Crane Primary, Vreed-en-Hoop
Primary, Good Fortuin Primary, Parfaite Harmony Primary, Two Brothers Primary, Patentia Primary, Belle West Primary, Kawall Primary, Cornelia Ida Primary, Saraswat Primary, Stewartville Primary and Endeavour and the Commons Secondary
The participating Region Four schools are Kuru Kuru Primary, Kuru Kururu Primary, Supply Primary, Soesdyke Primary, Timerhi Primary, Grove Primary, Diamond Primary, Covent Garden Primary, Eccles Primary, Mon Repos Primary, Lusignan Primary, Enterprise Primary, Helena Primary and Long Creek Primary, while the Georgetown schools included JE Burnham Primary, Smith Memorial Primary, Rama Krishna Primary, Redeemer Primary, St. Angela’s Primary, St. Ambrose Primary, FE Pollard Primary and Ketley Primary.
The ministry added that St. Anthony Primary in Region Seven and Arapaima Primary and St. Ignatius Primary in Region Nine will also be participating.
In addition to the current classes, the ministry said that the MESU is excited to announce the launch of its first-ever “ESL Adventure Camp,” which will take place at ten venues from July 15th to 26th. The participating venues include Mabaruma, Taymouth Manor, Meten-Meer-Zorg, Belle West, Diamond, JE Burnham, Ketley, Smith Memorial, Supply, and Arapaima Primary.
For more information about the ESL programme and upcoming activities, persons can contact the Ministry of Education.
WITH the construction of a tissue culture laboratory, Guyana is expected to grow four million plants annually, meeting both its local and regional demand for food.
This was last week disclosed by the country’s Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who, during a news conference where he told reporters that the government is already looking to construct a second laboratory.
“We probably will get another tissue culture lab. We are expanding all of our nurseries. The nursery at Charity is inadequate to service the needs of the people there. In places like the Amerindian communities, they want to expand cultivation,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
To further support farmers, the government, he noted, will be expanding the capacity of existing plant nurseries across the country.
“We will be providing a lot of planting material,” Dr. Jagdeo added.
In a recent invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, stated that the project will see the country being able to produce high-quality products for the regional and international markets.
He also revealed that the facility will feature a food-safety laboratory.
“This here will take our production level to new heights, where we will produce and comply with international standards. Our produce will be of a better quality to export, and we will be ready for the global market,” Minister Mustapha said.
Tissue culture involves the cultivation of plant cells, tissues, or organs on a specially formulated nutrient medium. Under the right conditions, an entire plant can be regenerated from a single cell.
Plant tissue culture is a technique that has been around for more than 30 years.
In 2023, an agreement to establish a tissue culture facility was signed by the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture and The Energy Resource Institute (TERI) of India.
This will see the establishment of a commercial-size tissue culture and micropropagation facility at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
Mustapha had said the project is extremely good for Guyana, as it will support the increased demand for planting materials.
“Over the last three years, we have seen a serious demand for planting materials…What we are producing now is just around 13,000 to 15,000 plantlets. When this lab is completed later on like mid-point 2024, we will be able to produce millions of plantlets for our farmers.”
Additionally, works are in progress to upgrade 11 nurseries across the country, which will result in an increase in seedling production from 200,000 to 500,000.
(BBC) - England’s quest to end 58 years of pain and disappointment ended in failure as they were beaten by Spain in the Euro 2024 final at Berlin's Olympiastadion.
Gareth Southgate's side were sunk by Mikel Oyarzabal's late winner to leave England heartbroken again in a second successive European Championship final and unable to end the long wait for success for the men's team.
Spain's young star wingers combined to give them the lead two minutes after the break as Lamine Yamal's pass opened up space for Nico Williams to beat England keeper Jordan Pickford with a powerful low finish.
England captain Harry Kane was out of sorts once more and was substituted on the hour and it was Cole Palmer - on for Kobbie Mainoo - who raised hopes of another dramatic come-
Nico
back with a composed leftfoot strike after 73 minutes.
It was Spain, however, who snatched the win
four minutes from time as Oyarzabal slid home Marc Cucurella's cross to leave England the nearly men once
more. England’s hopes of crossing the great divide that has separated them from the
(BBC) - CARLOS Alcaraz powered to victory over an out-of-sorts Novak Djokovic to retain his men's singles title at Wimbledon.
Although the players on show made this a repeat of last year's final, it failed to live up to the five-set thriller of 12 months ago as Djokovic appeared mostly helpless against the dominant Spaniard.
Despite squandering three championship points when trying to serve out a rapid victory, Alcaraz found focus again and held his arms aloft after battling through the thirdset tie-break for a 6-2 6-2 7-6 (7-4) win.
"Honestly, it is a dream for me winning this trophy," said Alcaraz, who was presented with the trophy by the Princess of Wales.
"I did an interview when I was 11 and I said
my dream is to win Wimbledon."
Gracious in defeat, Djokovic shared a smile and warm embrace with Alcaraz at the net after his comprehensive loss.
For a second straight year, Djokovic was attempting to equal Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon men's titles.
The 24-time major winner was also trying to move ahead of Margaret Court to take sole ownership of the all-time record for the most Grand Slam singles titles.
Djokovic has enjoyed many magnificent days on Centre Court, but this was one he is unlikely to look back on with any great fondness.
As modern tradition dictates, Alcaraz climbed up to the players' box and was leapt upon by his team and family, celebrating a 14th consecutive match win at Wimbledon.
The result continues the four-time major winner's 100 per cent record in Grand Slam finals, while he becomes the youngest man to win at Wimbledon and the French Open in the same year.
Later on Sunday evening, Alcaraz celebrated Spain's Euro 2024 final victory over Englandmaking it a perfect day for him and his country.
Alcaraz had looked far from convincing for the majority of this year's Championships - winning in straight sets just twice before the final.
He had to show resilience to wrestle his way through matches, fighting back against Daniil Medvedev, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe to sustain his title defence.
It made his run to the final all the more impressive, with his never-saydie mentality the mark of
major prizes were snatched away by a superior Spain side on a tough night in the German capital.
The iconic stadium was a sea of white as the massed ranks of England supporters vastly outnumbered their Spain counterparts, in the belief that the near misses of previous years were about to end.
And when Palmer’s smooth finish against the run of play 17 minutes from time drew England level, confidence surged. Many will have felt that Southgate's side were about to mount the sort of comeback that rescued them against Slovakia, Switzerland and the Netherlands earlier in Euro 2024.
This time there was to be no escape, with England being opened up clinically for Oyarzabal's decisive strike that gave Spain the success their performances throughout the tournament merited.
And just to compound England's agony, Declan Rice and Marc Guehi both saw headers cleared off the line in the closing moments, firstly by keeper Unai Simon and then Dani Olmo, who celebrated like it was a trophy-winning moment –which it effectively was. England's misery was confirmed seconds later, meaning that for all the progress and optimism of Southgate's eight-year reign, tangible success has escaped them. They have lost successive European Championship finals - to Italy three years ago and now an excellent Spain side - plus a World Cup semi-final in 2018 and a World Cup quarter-final in Qatar in 2022. It remains to be seen whether Southgate stays in charge for the next World Cup, but it may well be that this proves to be one disappointment too far for England's manager.
a true champion.
And in Sunday's final, Alcaraz showed he was saving his best tennis for the last, all-important moment.
Former British number one Tim Henman called it an "annihilation", while 1987 Wimbledon winner Pat Cash described it as a "perfect performance".
Alcaraz reeled off deft drop shots, perfect volleys and thunderous forehand winners that seemed to stun his 37-year-old opponent.
Following in the footsteps of his fellow Spaniard and hero Rafael Nadal in 2008 and 2010, Alcaraz has achieved the rare feat of winning at Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same year.
"Credit to Carlos for playing elite tennis, especially from the back of the court. He had it all today," Djokovic said in his runner-up speech.
Guyana ended their participation South American under 20 championships on Saturday when sprinter Athaleyha Hinckson pulled out of the 200 metres finals.
Manager/Coach Kenisha Headley told Chronicle Sport that, “Hinckson sustained a muscle pull in the 100 finals which caused her severe pain.”
The coach said she was, “Trying to manage it but saw no improvement and therefore made the decision to pull the athletes, she has world juniors in a month and they don’t want to compound the issue.”
Headley was the only official with the three athletes with no travelling physiotherapist or doctor to boost recovery of athletes after races, something which has been a sore issue over the years at international meets.
Hinckson had already won a gold medal in the
women 100 metres a day earlier with a blistering run of 11.76 coming in ahead of Colombia’s Maturana Maria second in 11.85 seconds and Vanessa Dos Santos of Brazil was third in 11.86 seconds.
Meanwhile the other two medals came from Tiana Springer and Malachi Austin in the 400m events.
Springer copped a time of 54.84 seconds in the semi to advance to the final where she collected a bronze medal after a run of 55.12 seconds.
Malachi Austin coming out of lane 2 put in a top quality showing to beat his counterparts to the line in 47.21 seconds for the gold with Ecuador's Ian Andrey second in 47.69 seconds and Brazil's Vinicius Moura third in 48.29 seconds.
The Guyana contingent is set to leave Peru today and arrive home on Tuesday morning.
‘It’s a great feeling to make your Country proud’ - Coach Grimmond
By Sean Devers
ON a rainy Saturday afternoon at the Brian Lara Academy in South Trinidad, Guyana, led by Realeanna Grimmond, beat the Leewards on the DLS system to win their second CWI Rising Stars
Women’s U-19 Regional Championships T20 title.
This was Guyana’s first title since 2017 and Coach Clive Grimmond said It was a great feeling to make his country proud. Grimmond spoke with Chronicle Sports from his
(Monday July 15, 2024)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Viv Richards (19 Tests)
(2) Mike Atherton (17 Tests)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) What is the highest partnership by a WI pair in Tests against ENG to date?
(2) What is the highest partnership by an ENG pair in Tests against the WI to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Hotel room in Trinidad on Saturday Evening after the tournament concluded.
“Last year we finished second to Jamaica but this year we went all the way…the girls are so happy” exclaimed Grimmond in his fourth tournament as Guyana U19 Female Coach.
Grimmond who has been the Coach for the last three years after doing the job for the first time in 2014, said the tournament standard was good and has improved.
The former GNIC first-Division cricketer informed that despite the rain, the ground was in top shape and only one game was washed out in the tournament.
He added, “Two players from the Guyana team have been selected for the West Indies u19 team, while three members of our team will not arrive with us since they have
to attend a camp. One of the positives from this tournament is the quality of the Guyana players which was very good. Even those who were here for the first time looked the part” continued Grimmond who has been a coach for 16 years.
Grimmond who has also worked with the senior team, lamented that the quality of the batting in the tournament however, continues to be the biggest issue.
“The bowling was of a high quality and the leading wicket-taker was Guyanese Trisha Hardat while a girl from the Leewards scored the
most runs which shows that female cricket in the smaller Islands is on the rise.
Our bowling attack was strong with two leg spinners and an off-spinner, in addition to three fast bowlers.” posited Grimmond
The Coach was very impressed by the performances of Hardat, Danellie Mannas and Naomi Barkoye.
“I feel if the players
continue to work hard and keep improving we could do even better since about 10 players will be available for next year,” concluded Grimmond.
The Manager of the victorious team was former West Indies Women’s fast bowling all-rounder Tremaine Smartt who was the Coach when her charges took championship honours in 2017.
ELITE League side Western Tigers on Saturday evening continued their winning streak with a 3-2 win against Santos FC in an ill-tempered encounter at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC).
Rondel Peters gave West Ruimveldt’s Tigers the early advantage in the 14th minute of play. eight points as Jumane Reynolds added seven for the winners.
That lead however didn’t last long as Santos was right back into the game with a Beveney McGarrell goal a minute later.
Micheal Oie would restore Western’s lead in the 45th minute before the break to make it 2-1.
After the resumption, the prolific Randolph Wagner made it 3-1 in the 68th with his lone goal of the heated clash which saw several yellow card bookings.
A Ryan Dowding’s strike in the 83rd would launch a comeback attempt for Santos but it fell short when the referee blew the final whistle. Tigers despite their 7th win will remain rooted in 5th place in the league table as the defeated Santos boasts eight wins in 14 clashes this season.
Meantime in the opener, Monedderlust thrashed Ann’s Grove united 4-1.
Goals from Rayon Rosie, Lomar Reid and Terique Benn in the 23rd, 27th and 30th minutes in quick succession all but sealed the contest as it gave Berbice an unas-
sailable lead before the break.
Ann’s Grove Travis Williams would pull back the advantage in the 52nd minute of the second half as they attempted to mount a comeback.
However, Atlyn Brolin’s 86th minute conversion drove
the final nail in the coffin as they came away with a 4-1 victory, the third win of their season 6 campaign.
GDF still leads the standing with 12 wins and a draw in 13 match-ups with Slingerz second and Police third on 10 and 9 wins respec -
tively. The KFC league resumes with Slingerz playing Buxton United FC and Champions GDF meeting Police FC in what is expected to be a scorcher this evening (Monday) at the GFF National Training Centre.
REIGNING Guyana Cup
Champion Easy Time sealed a crushing win at the Port Mourant Turf Club CARICOM horse race meet. Jockey Colin Ross displayed brilliance in front of a packed house sealing the deal in the feature event, with the champion horse trained, by Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr. bagging G$ 1.5 million.
Running at 1350 metres, Easy Time was trailed by Bossalina, who finished second on her return to the Sport of Kings, while Beckham James came third and Jessica’s Pride finished fourth in a thrilling race. Easy Time was the overwhelming favorite for fans, and he lived up to expectation.
Spankhurst was the notable absent horse and Glorious Businness.
The winners row: Easy Time connections in high spirits after a crushing win
After a delayed start, the race day got going with the J Class event. Trump was the winner, after acclimatizing to conditions. Local boy Kevin Paul piloted the resilient Trump to win in which he celebrated with an iconic fist pump.
Sarkar finished second while Princess Samiyah and Amazing Grace finished third and fourth respectively.
Race two was the two-
year old event, which was the first of its kind this year.
Secret Traveller emerged as victor while Candy Candy came second. Perfect Gold finished third while Miracle
Star ran fourth.
The third race of the day saw Supremacy regaining supreme with a victory in the H Class race. Blinding Light came second, followed by Emotional Damage and She WBO On Time in that order.
Bin Laden won an eventful J/K/L maiden class race which had a stacked field of 12 horses. Jockey Colin Ross was unseated from Lion Heart early in the race. Despite that, Lion Heart ran solo finishing jockey-less ahead of the other horses.
In addition to Bin Laden, who took the top spot, Little Africa finished second while Rock Star came third. Legacy finished fourth in race four.
Experience prevailed in race five with jockey Ross saddling Top Gun to a win in the L Class race. Running at 1500 metres, Ross pulled away from Wartime in a
tense sprint home. Princess Sasha ran third followed by Royal Flight.
Royal Ink then pulled off a gate to pole victory in the three-year-old Guyana and West Indies bred derby. Sex Appeal finished in second while Country Rock managed third and Super Quick came fourth in the penultimate race of the day.
The sponsors for the CARICOM race meet were Big G Limber Yard, Ryan Tilak, Old Broom Lounge, Kascon Engineering, AJM Enterprise, Money Tree Trading, T&R Construction, Port Mourant Turf Club, Jumbo Jet, KP Jagdeo, Premium Asphalt, Zick Back Shop and Family, Archway Snackette and Devendra Bishoo.
The next race day will be the highly anticipated Guyana Cup on August 11 at Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice.
