Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 06-04-2024

‘There

is no shortcut to building a world-class healthcare system’

–– President Ali tells GPHC healthcare personnel; emphasises importance of stakeholders ‘owning the transformation’ in order to achieve required results –– highlights measures that will be implemented to bolster services at public hospital

There is no shortcut to building a world-class healthcare system, but in order to achieve this goal, there must be collaboration between healthcare personnel and the government, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali (Delano Williams and Office of the President photos)

Guyana proud of its achievements in civil, political rights

–– calls for more genuine constructive dialogue based on facts, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs says

Crucial investments being made to craft solutions to climate change effects

–– Dr. Jagdeo says; points to impact of prolonged dry season, wildfires on farmers, other Guyanese

PM stresses importance of fairness, expediency

–– during swearing-in of three Commissioners of Title

APNU-controlled City Hall’s neglect leads to severe deterioration of Stabroek Market

PM stresses importance of fairness, expediency

–– during swearing-in of three Commissioners of Title

and efficiency

the swearing-in of three Commissioners of Title to serve in the Land Court in Essequibo as well

Berbice.

“We expect you to serve the people of Guyana well in your new office. While we collectively expect a high degree of fairness in your legal decision making, expediency is of equal importance,” he said.

During his remarks, the Prime Minister congratulated the new commissioners, and reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing access to justice.

He said: “As a government, we remain committed to supporting all the programmes and projects associated with improving the

administration of justice in Guyana, be it new building of courts, appointing new judges, new magistrates, new commissioners of title; all that is associated with improving the effectiveness and efficiency in the administration of justice.” The Commissioners selected by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to serve are Magistrate Renita Singh, Magistrate Esther Sam, and Magistrate Christel Lambert. Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney-General Mohabir Anil Nandlall, S.C.; Chancellor (ag) of the Judiciary, Madam Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; Chief Justice (ag), Madam Justice Roxane George, CCH, SC; retired Chancellor Justice Carl Singh; along with several other officials from the legal fraternity were also present at the ceremony.

PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday emphasised the importance of fairness, objectivity,

in administering justice during

as in

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday emphasised the importance of fairness, objectivity, and efficiency in administering justice during the swearing-in ceremony of three Commissioners of Title to serve in the Land Court in both Essequibo and Berbice

‘There is no shortcut to building a world-class healthcare system’

––

President Ali tells GPHC healthcare personnel; emphasises importance of stakeholders ‘owning the transformation’ in order to achieve required results

–– highlights measures that will be implemented to bolster services at public hospital

By Trina Williams

THERE is no shortcut to building a world-class healthcare system, but in order to achieve this goal, there must be collaboration between healthcare personnel and the government, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

President Ali made the foregoing remarks at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) where he met with a number of healthcare personnel on Friday.

During his address, the President said that there are serious investments being made in the healthcare system, and in making these investments, it is expected that within a short timespan, Guyana must be able to deliver efficient, reliable and quality healthcare to its citizens, and become the “premier healthcare system in the region”.

According to him, the government also wants to structurally integrate the healthcare system into the economy as an important revenue earner in the future.

“So, these investments and the expansion of the infrastructure, both to the public and private healthcare system, are around these core principles,” the President said.

He added: “It is only in this collaborative approach that we will be able to build

a system where the practitioners own the changes, own the system, own the modernisation. If we don’t create the ownership for all the stakeholders, then we will not be able to derive the results we want.”

Moreover, since the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government assumed office, they have been making steady progress in the expansion of the healthcare system, and as a result, there will be an expansion of services, according to the President. And soon there will be the launch of the national approach to testing for prostate cancer.

He went on to say that there have been many partnerships within the last three years. Using the Mount Sinai Healthcare System as an example, he said that the objective here is to build our healthcare system to the point where the brand could be “confidently attached”.

TEAM APPROACH

The government wants to work with healthcare workers to craft a team approach to healthcare, and not a compartmentalised approach, according to Dr. Ali.

With that said, one of the things catered for within this year’s budget is the development of regional health services for the hospitals to allow citizens to have better

experiences.

“The worst thing when you’re not feeling well is to go into a place that does not look well,” the President noted.

Further, there are efforts being deployed to establish a customer response mechanism.

“One of the things we’re thinking about is to have a call centre approach where if a citizen, both a health clinic or a hospital, and [if] they’re dissatisfied with the service, then that citizen can easily call, through a call centre approach, and make their complaint so that we

can have a more professional and efficient system, and more responsive to the needs,” he said.

Focusing more on the GPHC, Dr. Ali said that the investments they are making in the hospital will aid the nation in having a state-of-the art forensic, biochemistry and pathology laboratory.

Also, they are also advancing care in terms of surgical intervention.

NO SHORTCUTS

Continuing to set the foundation for world-class healthcare, the President

also called for discussions in key areas where there are backlogs, and which are these areas that require imported specialised help.

Referencing the 12 hospitals that are being constructed nationwide, Dr. Ali said that they will bring different levels of services, which will require a greater degree of management, and these investments will aid in drastically reducing the workload at GPHC.

However, when these hospitals come into operation, the President said the healthcare personnel will need to identify the gaps and start working on a system that will allow the government to fill them.

“There is no shortcut to this; it must be planned, structured and targetted, and all of us must be part of this decision-making or idea-development forum,” the Head of State said.

Shifting his attention to the world-class paediatric and maternal hospital in Ogle, which is currently under construction, the President said that he wants this to be managed by Guyana’s local capability, as far as possible.

“I want that to be managed by our local capability as far as possible. We have to identify what are the gaps, knowing the level of service that will come with that facility. What are

the gaps, and ensuring that we provide the training the adjustments in the system so when that facility comes into existence, we’ll be ready,” Dr Ali stated.

He also listed a number of national initiatives that are being created to benefit all Guyanese, such as the citizens’ health mobile app development programme.

BRIDGING GAPS

With Guyana growing rapidly and having a diverse set of people, the President addressed the issue of language barriers.

“The final issue I want to address is that in the system, we have a number of doctors that were trained in Cuba, so you have the added advantage of being good at Spanish. We want now to align your capability with the nurses and doctors who are Spanishspeaking in a system.

“So that we will have, if you have a hospital with 10 Spanish-speaking nurses and you have two doctors who are trained in Cuba, we then develop a core group with those two doctors so that we have a better communication channel and better support channel in terms of the capability that they bring, [and] ensuring that that capability is not hindered because of language gaps and language challenges,” the President said.

Kaieteur News misrepresents facts regarding new aircraft with computational error

ALTHOUGH People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday clarified the misinformation surrounding the recent aircraft that were purchased from India, Kaieteur News misrepresented the facts regarding their cost.

This is not the first time the newspaper has found itself at the centre of criticism, as there have been instances where persons have been forced to file lawsuits against them for false publication.

It then states that the Indian government purchased six similar planes for its air force from the same company at a price of US$31.9 million.

The newspaper then quoted the Economic Times as stating, “The Defence Ministry on Friday (March 10, 2023) sealed a deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to

“Guyana borrowed to buy two airplanes for the price of four” was the headline in the Friday edition of the Kaieteur News. The rest of the story reads: “The Government of Guyana has borrowed a US$23.27 million loan from India to buy two Dornier 228 airplanes from an Indian Aeronautics Company when they could have gotten four for the same price.”

procure six Dornier aircraft at a cost of Rs 667 crore for the Indian Air Force”, and then posited that Rs 667 Crore is equivalent to US$31.9 million; this means that the Indian Government purchased six of the same aircraft from the same company at a price of US$5.3 million for one. Utilising a conversion tool,

it was, however, easily determined that Rs 667 crore is equivalent to just over US$80 million.

During a press conference on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo responded to several allegations from the Opposition surrounding the purchase of the aircraft.

He said: “These aircraft were not bought by the Government of India and sold back to the Government of Guyana... Let me give you the details...So, the two aircraft were bought from the Indian government; these are aircraft that are new,” while underscoring that the new aircraft were bought at $8 million each.

He then pointed out that the

government purchased $6.23 million worth of spares for these two aircraft, including reserve engine, propellers, etc. and then spent about another million on the training of 19 persons, including the pilots, engineers and technicians flying the aircraft to Guyana. Further, engineers were sent from India to Guyana to work with the government for six months.

“So, the total is US$23.37 million. But for the aircraft themselves, it is US$16 million [in total] for the two,” he said.

The PPP General Secretary then went on to say: “We bought these aircraft from the company that manufactures

them in India, directly.”

There have been consistent efforts by the Kaieteur News to discredit the government, and, moreover, the publisher, Mr. Glen Lall, has been accused of using the newspaper as a propaganda machinery to advance his known political ambitions.

Just last month, the newspaper was forced to apologise to the government and the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) for false publication.

Furthermore, on several occasions, Dr. Jagdeo, had reason to call out the Kaieteur News for its frequent “distortion” of facts.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (Delano Williams photos)

Nandlall calls out APNU+AFC for xenophobic utterances

–– points to selective outrage by opposition, importance of addressing labour shortage

By Clestine Juan

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., has called out the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU-AFC) for promoting paranoia, xenophobia, and racism in response to the government’s decision to import 500 nurses from Bangladesh.

The move to import nurses from Bangladesh comes as Guyana grapples with a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where the deficit of nurses reached approximately 600 by the end of 2023.

The decision to recruit Bangladeshi nurses aims to address this critical gap in the healthcare sector, with assurances that they will receive salaries equivalent to their Guyanese counterparts.

However, the APNU-AFC has objected to the government recruiting the foreign nurses. In response to these criticisms, the Attorney-General, during his weekly programme, “Issues in the News,” lambasted the opposition, accusing them of exploiting racial and xenophobic sentiments to undermine the government’s initiatives.

First, he highlighted the urgency of addressing Guyana’s labour shortages, stating: “We have a dire shortage of a wide variety of skilled people

and unskilled labour... Guyana has suffered from a ‘migratory dream’ dating back decades.”

Highlighting historical migration patterns and the nation’s extensive diaspora, Nandlall pointed out: “Guyana has had one of the highest rates of migration per capita on planet Earth... How come there is this great surprise and shock at the decision to import labour?”

However, Nandlall condemned the opposition’s response, alleging that it was driven by “paranoia, xenophobia, and racism combined.”

He accused the APNU-AFC of exploiting racial politics, stating: “The opposition politics has always been based upon ethnicity and race.”

Nandlall drew parallels to past instances of racial tension, and drew parallels to former President Cheddi Jagan’s opposition to the Caribbean Federation in the 1960s.

Nandlall recounted Jagan’s principled stance against the Caribbean Federation, citing his objections based on the need for Caribbean nations to first establish independence and sovereignty before considering regional integration.

“When in the early 60s’ before most of the countries got independence, or while they were getting independence, there was an attempt to build a federation of the Caribbean territories….

“Dr Cheddi Jagan, on the basis of established princi -

ples, which he made public, objected at the time saying that it is not the time… was widely condemned by the PNC. And what was the basis of the condemnation? The racism,” Nandlall said.

He added: “They accused him of being a racist that he didn’t want Afro-Caribbean nationals to come to Guyana and that is why he was opposed.

That mentality has been with the PNC since they only see things through racial lens… that’s why I’m saying their politics is always based upon ethnicity and race.”

SELECTIVE OUTRAGE

Regarding past immigration issues, Nandlall highlighted the opposition’s selective outrage, stating: “About 20 years ago, when there was a large influx of Brazilians into Guyana... 25 years after the Brazilians have come, they have gone... Then when you have the Cubans, is the same argument... The only group that they have never objected to, in fact the only group that is supported coming to Guyana are the Haitians.”

Nandlall provided statistics to support his claims, noting: “Between 2017 and 2018, 3,515 Haitians arrived and only 291 left... Over 4,000 Haitians came, they can’t be found in Guyana... But they have a problem with the Bangladeshi

coming... The racism is latent and patent.”

He further accused the opposition of fabricating arguments to justify their stance, adding: “They construct and fabricate their usual argument of padding the voters list and that these people will eventually vote in Guyana... It is racism, xenophobia, and paranoia.”

In response to claims being raised by the APNU-AFC, Nandlall stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring fair treatment and compensation.

“The Bangladeshi nurses will receive the same salaries paid to Guyanese healthcare workers,” he declared, refuting claims of disparities in pay or treatment.

Also, in defence of government’s decision, he urged detractors to recognise the necessity of importing skilled labour to meet the demands of a rapidly expanding economy.

“The decision has been made... I don’t understand the frenzy,” he remarked, calling for a shift away from divisive rhetoric towards constructive dialogue and collaboration.

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, recently quashed the rumour being peddled by the APNU-AFC that imported labourers will be treated better than locals.

Dr Jagdeo pointed out the “fake love” that the PNC-R is showing to public servants.

Despite Guyana undergoing rapid development, the government has said on several occasions that there is a labour shortage.

Specifically, with there being the construction of 12 new hospitals nationwide, Dr Jagdeo stated: “We need more doctors, more nurses… we have to recruit people to work in these hospitals to make sure our people get the best quality care. We can’t just build the hospitals and leave them there without staff.”

In response to claims of allegation that foreigners will receive higher salaries than locals, Dr Jagdeo said, “any person who is recruited from abroad to work in the public sector, their conditions of service will be no better than what Guyanese get…. It will be comparable to what our people get for the particular skill.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation had issued a statement in response to a letter that was circulating in the media regarding the recruitment of foreign healthcare workers.

The ministry was responding to a request from Sigma Engineers Ltd., issued the letter to confirm that the agency was authorised to recruit healthcare workers, with the view to addressing concerns raised by both the public and private sectors on the severe skills shortage in the health sector.

The Private Sector Commission has, on numerous occasions, according to the statement, requested the government’s assistance in addressing the need to fill the skills shortages not only in the health sector, but also in the critical sectors of construction, engineering, and services, given the expansion and growth of Guyana’s economy.

In this regard, the recruitment agency was appointed to liaise with relevant authorities from various countries to recruit healthcare workers including, but not limited to, Bangladeshis.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

Recover Guyana and Education Ministry launch ‘SHOUT’ for second consecutive year

By Cindy Parkinson

FOR the second consecutive year, Recover Guyana, a non-governmental organisation in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has launched ‘SHOUT’ – a project aimed at promoting a shift in people’s perspectives about environmental

tal conservation.

“This initiative brilliantly leverages the power of competitive speaking and engages students in a drive into environmental issues, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to articulate their ideas and solutions. SHOUT goes beyond the traditional boundaries of classroom learning,

“Each phase is strategically crafted to elevate participants’ understanding, skills, and readiness to act for environmental sustainability. In the opening phase, schools are invited to dream big, crafting one-minute videos that articulate bold, sustainable changes within their environment, free from the constraints of financial bar-

is the belief that someone else will save it...”

He related that environmental protection is crucial for human survival and development. According to him, “our lives cannot be done without air, water, and soil. It is very important for us to protect our environment so that we can continue to live on this planet

age valued at $300,000 and an environmental award, a laptop, a health voucher from UltraCare Medical Centre Inc., among other prizes.

The Queen’s College winner explained how grateful she was for the opportunity and the impact that her contribution has on the environment and her school.

She added that thus far, over 100,000 bottles have been prevented from polluting the environment.

The event was also attended by UK Ambassador to Guyana Jane Miller, representatives from ExxonMobil (the main sponsor), other members of the diplomatic community, and officials.

conservation, especially among youths.

Speaking at the event, Founder and President of Recover Guyana, Dr. Dave Lalltoo, explained that Guyana has acknowledged the need to include the next generation in the “green discussion,” and as such, they have once again set out to find the country’s top young environmental speaker.

The essence of SHOUT, according to him, is rooted in education, serving as a pivotal platform for enlightening and inspiring the younger generation on the importance of environmen-

providing a dynamic and interactive forum that fosters critical thinking, research, and public speaking skills among participants,” he shared.

Dr. Lalltoo further explained that SHOUT is more than a competition; it’s a journey for all to take on together so that Guyanese can have a sustainable future.

According to him, SHOUT 2024 unfolds through a carefully structured competition designed to ignite passion and innovation in environmental advocacy amongst students in Grades Nine and 10 in Guyana.

riers...after careful scoring, the top 30 schools advance to present their environmental speeches...narrowing to the top 10 in this phase test participants adaptability and depth of knowledge through impromptu speeches...In the climate of the top three schools, it is comprehensive questions that determine the National Youth Environmental Speaker for 2024,” Dr. Lalltoo explained.

Meanwhile, Assistant Chief Education Officer, Ag (Secondary) Mr. Sheldon Granville, in a quote by Robert Swan, said, “The greatest danger to our planet

in a healthy and safe atmosphere.”

He emphasised the importance of creating a space that allows children to develop an awareness of and find solutions to mitigate existing environmental challenges, adding that the Ministry of Education is grateful for the opportunity to once again collaborate with Recovery Guyana on Project SHOUT to raise awareness on environmental issues.

Also at the event was last year’s Guyana’s National Youth Environmental Speaker, Ms. Vasanna Persaud of Queen’s College, who received a prize pack-

Assistant Chief Education Officer Ag, (Secondary) Mr. Sheldon Granville

UK Ambassador Jane Miller, Founder and President of Recover Guyana, Dr. Dave Lalltoo (second from right), other members of the diplomatic community, representatives from Recovery Guyana, and representatives from ExxonMobil (Photos: Japheth Yohan)

Constitutional Reform

THE recent swearing-in of the Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) in Guyana underlines the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises to the Guyanese people.

Led by Justice Carl Singh, the CRC’s establishment marks a significant stride towards fulfilling the pledges outlined in the 2020-2025 Manifesto.

With over 90 per cent of the manifesto already delivered upon, this move underscores the government’s dedication to inclusive governance and ensuring the voice of every Guyanese citizen is heard.

Constitutional reform isn’t merely a political checkbox; it’s a critical mechanism for shaping the future of a nation. The PPP/C’s approach, as articulated by General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, emphasises inclusivity and transparency.

By adopting a model that includes representatives from both political

parties and civil society, the CRC ensures that the reform process reflects the diverse perspectives and needs of Guyana’s populace.

Education plays a pivotal role in this endeavour. Dr. Jagdeo rightly points out the necessity of public awareness regarding the provisions of Guyana’s Constitution.

Understanding the past reforms and appreciating the progressive elements within the Constitution is essential for fostering informed dialogue and decision-making. It’s a testament to Guyana’s democratic ethos that such reforms are approached with a commitment to educating and engaging the populace.

The reforms introduced are indicative of Guyana’s progressive stance on governance. Measures such as enhancing parliamentary committees, establishing rights commissions, and ensuring bipartisan agreement on key appointments demonstrate a commitment to effective and inclusive governance.

However, constitutional reform alone cannot address all systemic challenges. Dr. Jagdeo aptly highlights the need for a broader societal shift away from divisive politics and electoral malpractice.

Importantly, the composition of the CRC reflects a diversity of perspectives, including representation from various sectors such as the legal profession, labor unions, and religious organisations. This diversity ensures that the Commission’s recommendations are comprehensive and reflective of Guyana’s pluralistic society.

The Constitutional Reform Commission Bill 2022, which was passed by the House, underscores the government’s legislative commitment to the reform process. By providing a framework for the Commission’s operation and outlining its mandate, the Bill laid the groundwork for a thorough and inclusive review of Guyana’s supreme laws.

Crucially, the Bill emphasised the

protection of fundamental rights, the empowerment of Indigenous Peoples, and the promotion of equality and ethnic harmony.

Guyana’s Constitution serves as the cornerstone of its democracy, and its periodic review is imperative for adapting to evolving societal needs and aspirations. As the highest governing document, it must reflect the values and aspirations of all Guyanese citizens. The establishment of the CRC represents a significant opportunity for collective introspection and progress.

By prioritising transparency, education, and inclusivity, the PPP/C government demonstrates its commitment to democratic values and responsive governance.

As the Commission embarks on its mandate, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders to actively participate and contribute to the shaping of a more equitable and prosperous Guyana.

Why didn’t Patterson ensure annual reports for GPL were

Dear Editor,

REFERENCE is made to former minister, David Patterson’s letter in the Stabroek News edition of April 5, 2024, in response to the Hon. Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and the undersigned.

The escapism of the former Minister, David Patterson, is unescapable; such that his explanation that GPL is established under the Companies Act 1991, thereby implying that the Public Corporations Act does not apply, is inexcusable.

If the former minister studied the Public Corporations Act (1988) carefully, he would recognise that section two (b) of the Public Corporations Act (1988) states that a “com-

pany has the meaning assigned to it by section two of the Companies Act; section two (d) states that “corporation means” ― Every existing corporation; and Every public corporation established under section three and every corporation which comes into existence as a result of reconstitution of anybody corporate under section six or merger of two or more corporations under section seven.

Section six (four) of the Public Corporations Act establishes that “the provisions of this section shall have effect in relation to a body corporate, being a company notwithstanding anything contained in the Companies Act.”... This means, in my interpretation, that the Public Corporations Act applies to all

prepared, published?

Public Corporations. GPL is owned solely by the State; therefore, the provisions of the Act applies.

Be that as it may, whether the Act applies or not, central to the issue at hand is one of good governance. Thus, the validity of my original contention remains in respect of the publication of annual reports by GPL that ought to have been laid over to the National Assembly. Notably, GPL has published annual reports for the period 2009-2012.

The annual report has two components: (i) an operational report and (ii) report on the audited financial statements. As such, the cessation of the publication of annual reports for the period 2013-2022/23 is tantamount to deliberately fostering a lack of transparency

and accountability.

Therefore, my position remains unchanged―that is, the former minister, David Patterson and former President David Granger should not evade accountability on these matters during their tenure. The APNU+AFC had promised “good governance”. Thus, failure thereof is contrary to the principles of the good governance mantra of the former APNU+AFC regime.

In closing, I wish to put the question once more to the former minister, why did he not ensure that the annual reports for GPL were prepared and published? Sincerely,

African and non-White politicians in today’s world

I READ somewhere that, in a small Italian village, people cried for joy when they heard the news that an African American became President of the US.

It may be true because 20th century generations around the world grew up with the understanding that African-Americans are mistreated in the total establishment of the United States.

Billions of people around the world knew it was a long yearned for justification to have a Black American become the President. There was overwhelming emotions among the people in India when a woman born from a migrant from India became the US Vice-President and rivers of emotions flowed when the son of Indian citizens became the Prime Minister of the UK.

But how have these dialectical changes in both the politics of the US and the UK impacted upon the policies of these powerful, (some would say imperialist) countries? After his first term, the aura of Obama declined.

His second term was miserable. He barely won and became the first sitting President to have the largest defeat in both Houses of Congress during his second term. Yet, Obama had the temerity to say after the defeat of Hilary Clinton by Trump that, if he had run, he would have won.

The long tradition of non-White people gravitating to left wing parties in the Western world has gone with the arrival of the 21st century. I grew up in a world whereby if you met any East Indian or African from

London, they would be critical of the British establishment.

It was taken for granted that an African American would frown on US politicians. Those days are gone. Some of the most reactionary politicians in the ruling parties of the Western world are non-White folks.

But more importantly, as Asians, Hispanics and Africans in developed, capitalist countries move from lower classes to the petite bourgeoisie or become wealthy, they become ardent support of the establishment. They see themselves as having arrived and they feel that such a spot is best maintained if they openly endorse the status quo.

If you check the amount of African American Hollywood stars that support Israel, the numbers are shocking. It was natural in the 1960s and 1970s for most African Americans to denounce Israel for genocidal occurrences.

Beyonce’s latest album features her on a horseback with cowboy hat, wearing clothes made out of the American flag and holding an American flag in her hand. In the 1960s and 1970s, you would never find an African American pop star highlighting the American flag like that.

In the UK, there is a pronounced number of African and Indian ministers in the Conservative Party government of the UK and none, not one of them is moderately right-wing. All of them hold extreme rightwing position with all of them in favour of curtailing non-White immigration to the UK. In the US, an African American woman

is Vice-President under a president who has gone overboard in supporting Israel and she has not voiced a dissenting opinion. Barack Obama is part of the Biden campaign team.

Two factors explain why non-White politicians and the non-White petite bourgeoisie have become so right-wing in their world outlook in the Western world. One is the acceptance syndrome. If you are going to make it, then you have to show behaviour that is sympathetic to the prevailing values endorse by the White establishment to be accepted.

This is the story of Obama in the US, Suella Braveman in the UK and Dilan Yesilgoz Zergerius in Holland – just three examples of hundreds in the Western world. They would not have reached to the top of their respective party, if they did not manifest, open espousal of the values of the white establishment.

The second factor is social movement. As Asians, Hispanics and Africans in the US become rich or famous, what happens at the psychological level is that they feel that they are part of the great society. They

do not see themselves as belonging to an ethnic minority. At the psychological level, they see themselves as a natural American so they think of their country as this great part of the world that they are a part of.

African American celebrities like Beyonce, Kanye West, Ice-Cube, Chris Rock, do not see themselves as African but as Americans that belong to the establishment. Overall, they support American policy in the world.

You may be disappointed when you read that African American celebrities have openly sided with Israel. But if you talk to them they would tell you that their country is a close friend of Israel and they support what their country do.

Within this framework, it would be best for non-White working people in the West to vote for issues rather than colour.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

The PPP administration: Trusted stewards amidst turbulent waters

Dear Editor,

WHILE many leaders of industrialised and technologically advanced nations are toying with authoritarianism and advocating isolationist policies, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and his administration are championing the cause of multilateralism.

It is a daunting task riddled with formidable obstacles, the least of which have been a number of adversarial western journalists.

VICE Media’s journalist Isobel Yeung had the audacity to employ an actor to sneak a hidden camera into VP Bharrat Jagdeo’s private residence in violation of well-established international journalistic standards and policies.

VICE Media declared bankruptcy in February, and Yeung is now out of a job. Shane Smith, VICE co-founder’s high-rolling playboy, once described by insiders as being all “smoke and mirrors”, lost billions of dollars when his company folded. Its other founder, Gavin MacInnes, gained notoriety for creating “Proud Boys”, a white supremacist organisation that was active during the January 6 (2021) Capitol Hill insurrection.

Gaiutra Bahadur, an English and journalism associate professor at Rutgers University in Newark and author of “Coolie Woman: The Odyssey of Indenture” penned an epic 6,000word essay for the New York Times magazine (March 30, 2024) titled “Is Guyana’s Oil a Blessing or a Curse?”

The essay promises to explore “the consequences of climate change and the lure of the oil economy”. It is a predictable piece of disappointing journalism, and, not surprisingly, it was funded by the Headway initiative.

Among Headway’s financial backers are the Rockefellers, who made stupendous wealth from oil refineries, and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, a Greek-owned company that made billions from owning and operating what was once the world’s largest oil supertanker fleet.

In Bahadur’s essay, VP Jagdeo is referenced four times, but he was apparently never interviewed for the story. The author cited the fact that the United Nations once hailed Jagdeo as a “Champion of the Earth”.

The next sentence reads: “And then ExxonMobil struck oil.” The inference here is that Jagdeo is so intoxicated with oil that he no longer cares about the environment. Also conspicuously missing from Bahadur’s lopsided narrative is President Ali. His name is never mentioned in her lengthy essay.

This brings us to Stephen Sackur, host of the popular BBC television programme, ‘HARDtalk’, with the same predictable line of questioning: Blame Guyana’s oil-and-gas extraction for accelerating climate change.

As host of the adversarial show that has been on air for nearly 25 years, Sackur often relies on producers to brief him and work out a list of questions. It appears that his producers paid more attention to a coterie

of disgruntled APNU+AFC members whose incompetence handed ‘Exxon’ the ‘kit and caboodle’ when they negotiated the contract in the first place. Sackur’s producers also appear to have relied heavily on a number of NGOs operating in Guyana who are advocating environmental protection policies so strident they would have dairy farmers cull their herds to cut down on methane emission.

When you are as presumptuous a journalist as Sackur is, it’s easy to assume that the President of a small State in the Global South might be just another country bumpkin. Sackur was in for a rude awakening if that’s what he thought.

When he poked Guyana’s jaguar, he got a well-deserved slap down. The fact is that Guyanese are not about to lose their collective minds, and there is absolutely no evidence to suggest they are about to slash and burn every inch of their precious rainforest because of oil and gas.

While the Hardtalk episode garnered over 320,000 views on YouTube (the show is not available Online to viewers outside the UK) and nearly 3,000 overwhelmingly positive comments, President Ali and his administration can’t afford to be distracted.

The President is the Chair of CARICOM, and Guyana has a seat on the U.N. Security Council for the next two years, which means the PPP has a golden opportunity to advance multilateralism as the surest way to tackle challenges such as climate change, territorial

disputes, a violent meltdown in Haiti, malnutrition and genocide in Gaza, and gloom in the Ukraine.

President Ali has the demonstrated experience to lead. He has personally engaged with nearly 100 world leaders since taking office. From India to China, shuttling from Qatar to the United Kingdom and the United States, Guyana’s President is helping to bring nations together to address common challenges, and achieve shared goals; core principles of multilateralism.

In the last month alone, and on separate occasions, the President hosted the former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, former US President Bill Clinton, and William Burns, head of the C.I.A. and even a delegation from France.

The latter meeting resulted in an announcement by France’s Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Stéphane Séjourné to open an embassy in Guyana by 2025. And at last November’s COP28 in Dubai, President Ali met Mohammed Bin Zayed, President of the U.A.E., and the latter promised to visit Guyana sometime this year, and possibly open an embassy in Georgetown.

This all bodes well for the people of Guyana and President Ali, and his administration should be applauded for being steady hands on deck in turbulent times.

Yours respectfully, Nazim Baksh

Inspiring women making a difference in Guyana

The following is part of a series on the 25 Influential Women Leaders 2024 Awardees:

TODAY, we introduce five of the 25 Influential Women Leaders 2024 Awardees, to give the public an insight into who they are and how they are serving our community.

Adasia Vanessa Gilead

A dedicated registered nurse at New Amsterdam Regional Hospital, embodies the essence of compassionate healthcare. Her belief that healthcare should extend beyond merely treating illnesses to encompass education and empowerment has set her apart as a beacon of inspiration for fellow healthcare professionals.

Gilead’s unwavering commitment to advocating for enhanced healthcare poli-

cies and resources in Guyana underscores her passion for improving the well-being of individuals within her community.

Through her actions and words, she exemplifies the transformative impact that a holistic healthcare approach can have on individuals’ lives.

As she continues championing change and progress in the healthcare sector, Gilead stands as a testament to the power of dedication and advocacy in shaping a healthier future for all.

Andrea Sophia Crystal King

On another stage, we have Andrea Sophia Crystal King, the current reigning Miss World Guyana for the 2022/2023 term. Andrea’s presence exudes excellence, integrity, and a relentless drive to create positive change in her community.

Her transformative initiative, Project FLO, is a testament to her dedication to addressing pressing issues in Guyana. Project FLO is a groundbreaking endeavour that seeks to address the need for financial education and empowerment in Guyana.

By providing valuable resources and

guidance on financial literacy, Andrea aims to uplift individuals and communities, equipping them with the knowledge needed to secure their financial futures.

Her vision extends far beyond beauty pageants, showcasing her deep-rooted commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those around her.

Dr. Arnelle Sparman-Shelto

In a world where healthcare heroes are essential, Dr. Arnelle Sparman-Shelto stands out as a shining

example of compassion and excellence in paediatric cardiac care.

She is a devoted specialist in paediatric cardiac care in Guyana, and her unwavering empathy and commitment to her work have saved numerous lives under her care.

Dr. Sparman-Shelto’s tireless efforts in paediatric cardiac care at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) have also earned her respect and

admiration from colleagues and patients.

She remains steadfast in her mission to provide the best possible care for her patients.

Ashmeeta Rawof

On the other hand, Ashmeeta Rawof’s passion for community service and youth development shines brightly through her role as the co-founder and

director of Youths on the Rise Guyana (YORG).

Through YORG, she has created a platform for young people to harness their potential and become catalysts for positive change in their communities.

Rawof’s tireless efforts in nurturing the youth’s talents, skills, and passions have empowered them to take charge of their future and make a meaningful impact on society.

Her vision for a brighter future where young individuals are actively engaged in shaping their communities is both inspiring and transformative.

Ashwannie Harripersaud

Ashwannie Harripersaud is a remarkable individual who wears multiple hats with grace and excellence.

As a full-time teacher attached to the Ministry of Education, she pours her heart into shaping young minds and instilling knowledge and values beyond textbooks.

Her commitment to community service further exemplifies her selflessness and dedication to making a positive impact beyond the classroom walls.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Harripersaud also serves as a part-time lecturer at the prestigious Cyril Potter College of Education, where she imparts her wisdom and experience to aspiring educators.

Her passion for education doesn’t stop there; she is currently on the cusp of achieving a Master’s degree in Education from Jain University in India, showcasing her relentless pursuit of academic excellence.

Furthermore, Harripersaud’s scholarly contributions have not gone unnoticed. She holds the title of the most published scholar in Guyana and the wider West Indies region, a testament to her intellectual prowess and dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of education.

The 25 Influential Women Leaders Awards was established by The NICO Consulting Inc. and Cerulean Incorporated to acknowledge the achievements of women leaders on a national and regional level.

The purpose of the award is to highlight the achievements of women, specifically 25 outstanding awardees, who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to enhancing the business sector, their communities, and society.

To explore sponsorship opportunities and buy tickets, individuals can visit the official Eventbrite page at https:// rb.gy/4nr2nf or contact MMG+ at 6478100 (keep your receipt).

In-person ticket sales are available at designated locations in Georgetown, Eccles, Linden, and Pouderoyn: Frances & Co., 77 Light Street, Albertown; The Urban Shoe Company, Ground floor of the Giftland Mall; Cerulean Incorporated, 104 Flamboyant Avenue, Eccles; and World Access Top Up Shop, Mackenzie Market, Linden.

For further information, individuals may contact 25influentialwomen@ gmail.com or dial 592-652-7752. Additionally, individuals have the option to access the Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram pages through the handle 25InfluentialWomenLeaders.

Adasia Vanessa Gilead

Andrea King

Arnelle Anastacia Sparman-Shelto

Ashwannie Harripersaud

Ashmeeta Rawof

Vision of ‘One Guyana’ will be hastened, strengthened by our success in sports

All Guyanese welcome home our CARIFTA games athletes. It cannot be denied that athletics/running is the oldest sporting event.

However, in English speaking Caribbean, powerhouse Jamaica is the true Champion. Guyana, with world class facilities and equipment is now moving up the ladder. At the completion of the 51st CARIFTA games, Guyana was in fourth position on the medals table.

Sport is the most attractive business in the world today. It is the purest and most powerful project that we can embark on. In Guyana we did not benefit from World Class Sport Facilities from our colonial masters. However, it was the PPP/C Government that recognised the significance of Sport in the development of our people and country.

The initiative of Bharrat

Jagdeo as Finance Minister certainly kick-started the development of sport facilities in Guyana. It is due to his tremendous efforts and genuine interest in sport that enabled this country to develop our sport infrastructure around the country.

Today, we can celebrate the fact that our young population has access to a world Class Athletics Track at Leonora which is fully equipped with all the necessary requirements for Track and Field events. Further, it is most heartening to know that our citizens in Upper-Demerara/Linden are now the beneficiaries of a modern Athletics track. Further, our citizens in Berbice/Region Five and Six will soon have access to a world class facility at New Amsterdam. These massive investments will certainly give rise to more well-trained

and equipped athletes participating in sports. As a result, and we will have a higher level of local competitions which will lead to better performances on the international stage.

Our sportsmen and sportswomen are benefitting greatly from the tremendous assistance offered by our government. Better and world-class facilities, international equipment, international exposure and coaching, mental and physical preparedness training are all vital resources that are now available to our athletes.

Sports, preparation from the cradle to the grave are now available to our sport personalities. The Sport Resource Centre at Woolford Avenue must now be fully operable, as coaching and training in all aspects of sport development must help to strengthen our sport development programme.

Our club structure must be more organised and we must have nurseries at all clubs. We must have competitive sports at an early age.

Our children must be exposed to a variety of sport disciplines so they can develop a positive attitude towards sports and then genuine interest will be seen in specific disciplines.

As the very young develop the interest in a particular sport discipline, the coaches and trainers will follow up with the appropriate guidance to produce great athletes.

All eyes are now on Tianna Springer, Athaleyha Hinskson, Malachi Austin,

Narrisa McPherson, Nelson Gill and Kaidon Persaud. However, we need to bring back the competitive county and country games.

The early exposure along with competitive training will give rise to champions.

Sport is a must; it transcends all hindrances to

the unity of our people. We must remember, an active nation is a healthy nation and a healthy nation is a wealthy nation!

The realisation of President Ali’s vision of One Guyana will certainly be hastened and strengthened by our success in sports.

GMSA congratulates President Ali on being named 2024 Caribbean Global Leader

THE Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has congratulated President, Dr Irfaan Ali on being named the 2024 Caribbean Global Leader.

According to a press release from GMSA, this prestigious recognition underscores President Ali’s exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to advancing Guyana’s position on the global stage.

“President Ali receives this distinguished award just three months after being honored with the Global Africa Leadership

Award in January and receiving the Order of Freedom of Barbados Award, demonstrating his commitment to strengthening ties between Guyana and the Caribbean community,” GMSA said.

The association added:

“This rapid succession of

accolades highlights his unwavering dedication and remarkable leadership in advancing Guyana’s interests while fostering regional co-operation and collaboration.”

The GMSA also commended Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados

for securing the second spot on the list of Caribbean Global Leaders, and all the distinguished leaders who were recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Caribbean region.

This achievement reflects the collective efforts of Caribbean leaders in advancing the region’s interests and fostering collaboration on regional and global issues, the association said.

Kamarang District Hospital now performing surgeries

IN keeping with the government’s commitment of providing world-class healthcare to all Guyanese, the Kamarang District Hospital has now commenced various surgeries.

Gallstones, hernia, and hydrocele are the different types of surgeries to be performed over the weekend. The patients are from Phillipai, Paruima, Waramadong, Jawalla, Kako and Kamarang.

Last year, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony disclosed that a total of $800 million was spent to upgrade some 76 healthcare facilities in Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine.

“We have been making a lot of investments in health across the country. With those investments, we have seen good returns because we are seeing lots of people and children having healthier lives. And we are already seeing that people are living longer. I think the investments we are doing are paying off in many respects,” the Health Minister said.

The government is also constructing several regional hospital as part of its drive to improve healthcare across the country.

It was reported in January that foundations have been laid for the new regional hospitals. Dr Anthony recently said that the new regional hospitals are being constructed at Anna Regina, Region Two; De Kinderen, Region Three; Diamond and Enmore, Region Four; Bath, Region Five and Skeldon, Region Six.

The Health Minister also said that over the past two years, the government has done a lot of work on health infrastructure and, last year, some $2 billion was spent on upgrading 271 health posts and health centres across the country.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

Police appeal magistrate’s decision in Patterson’s indecent exposure case

–– victim says he was ‘alarmed, shocked’ by Patterson flashing him

THE police have filed an appeal of the decision of City Magistrate Leron Daly to free Alliance For Change (AFC) member and former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, in a case involving alleged public urination and obscene language, for which evidence was submitted and there was detailed testimony by the victim.

Last July, Patterson was hauled before the Georgetown Magistrate Court and was released on $70,000 bail after pleading not guilty to the charges.

The first charge alleged that, on July 16, at Lot 87 Seaforth Street, Section K, Campbellville, Georgetown, he exposed his genitals to Ramroop Oudit.

Additionally, it was claimed that, on the same date and location, Patterson used obscene language towards Oudit and provoked him, causing distress.

Despite video evidence and testimony from the victim, Oudit, the Magistrate upheld a nocase submission, leading to Patterson’s acquittal.

During the trial, Oudit testified that he witnessed Patterson urinating in public and making offensive remarks, with the incident captured on CCTV footage.

Patterson’s attorney made a no-case submission stating that the prosecution’s case lacks evidence to support the charges.

This no-case submission was upheld by Magistrate Daly, who determined, among other things, that there were issues regarding the de-

scription of Patterson’s genitalia, given his dark complexion.

However, Oudit, in his evidence in chief, provided a vivid description of Patterson’s genital.

Oudit added that he was about 35 feet from Patterson, and nothing blocked his view, and he was alarmed, shocked and felt very embarrassed.

He said that he knows David Patterson for several years before the incident and that Patterson frequents a shop opposite his work place. The victim had positively identified Patterson in Court.

The victim went on to state that on July 16, 2023, about 20:05 hours, while at his work place, he saw Patterson coming over to his workplace passageway and proceeded to urinate on garbage barrels, then turned towards him, exposing himself and making lewd remarks.

Oudit further described how Patterson turned towards him and made explicit remarks, saying, “this is the f**king government reserve, and I can pee anywhere cause is whole night I gone pee.”

Oudit recounted additional instances of public urination by Patterson, including an incident where Patterson urinated on the main gate and gate post, stating: “Sir this is full disrespect, you cannot pee on our gate” to which Patterson responded, “you carry ya sk**t, I can pee anywhere cause I ain’t done pee yet.”

The victim added that about 20 minutes after, Patterson returned to their workplace passageway and started to urinate on a white Premio car parked right in the passageway

and he said to Patterson, “sir I want you to know, that I have great respect for you and I want you to know that you are on camera being recorded.”

Oudit said that at all times the place was very bright from the aid of electrical spotlights fitted to the front of the building and the streetlights and he could have seen David Patterson clearly.

Additionally, the victim’s evidence was corroborated by CCTV footage.

The footages were extracted by a rank from the victim’s workplace and placed on a flash drive which was then handed over to another rank who placed it on disc.

The said disc containing the video footages was tendered and played in court by that rank and

that rank identified the man seen in the video as Patterson, who is known to him.

Additionally, the rank who originally extracted the footages and placed it on the flash drive was shown the video footages in court and he too also identified the person in the video as Patterson.

Alliance for Change (AFC) member and former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson

Crucial investments being made to craft solutions to climate change effects

–– Dr Jagdeo says; points to impact of prolonged dry season, wildfires on farmers, other Guyanese

IN response to the frequent wildfires and other effects of the prolonged dry season, the government is investing in longterm and short-term solutions, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has said.

The General Secretary, during his press conference on Thursday, acknowledged the impact that the adverse conditions have had on Guyanese, especially farmers.

“It is affecting the livelihoods of some communities where the drought has killed their crops…even on the coastal belt, many communities have asked for

irrigation water. Irrigation is the lifeblood of agriculture.

“If you don’t have irrigation, it affects agriculture. So, we have had that here on the coast, in the hinterland, in some areas, the crops have dried down,” Dr Jagdeo lamented.

He highlighted that the Ministry of Health and the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) are alert and prepared to provide support where needed.

Affected households in Region Nine will soon benefit from hampers, following a recent visit by President Irfaan Ali.

Dr Jagdeo mentioned that while there is “little to do” about the prolonged dry

season, the government is prioritising climate adaptation as a long-term solution.

He pointed out the global phenomenon of extreme weather events associated with climate change, which Guyana has been expending time and effort to address.

The General Secretary said: “Some countries have gone into famine because of their drought; the prolonged drought in Africa, and other places where they don’t have food now. It’s a phenomenon associated with climate change, something that we have spoken about for a very long time—the extreme weather that we will continue to experience. That’s why we are spending

so much of our resources on adaptation measures.”

Climate adaptation refers to the actions taken to adjust to climate change’s current and expected impact. The government’s support for this agenda is reflected in a plethora of policies and initiatives implemented and executed over the past three plus years.

A key example is the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LDCS2030), which is in its second phase of implementation.

Guyana also signed a carbon credits agreement which sees the country being paid to maintain its forest cover. A large portion of these funds, 85 per cent, is directed to supporting sustainable development projects, while the remaining 15 per cent is allocated to indigenous communities.

“Maybe over US$2 bil-

lion will be spent in the country on adaptation, outside of the part that goes directly to the Amerindian villages, and that is to manage water resources,” the General Secretary said.

Other long-term solutions include investments in water infrastructure. The government is building Hope-like canals in regions Three, Five, and Six to provide additional storage capacity.

The Hope Canal, located on the East Coast Demerara, is a multi-part channel with an eight-door sluice that drains excess water from the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) into the Atlantic Ocean to prevent flooding.

In this year’s budget, $72.3 billion has been allocated for the maintenance and advancement of drainage and irrigation expansion. (DPI)

State-of-the-art simulation

‘lab’ for Linden Nursing School –– offering

By Cindy Parkinson

WITH its cutting-edge technology, the state-of-theart simulation laboratory at Charles Rosa Nursing School in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), offers nursing students a regulated and realistic practice environment to help with the improvement of their knowledge and skills.

According to Advisor to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, the lab is intended to enhance learning

a practice environment for

between now and the end of May, these labs will be at all the nursing schools across the country, and simulation labs at some of the hospitals. This is to support the training of nurses because training in the past relied purely on trainee nurses being in hospitals where they got their practical training.

“While that will still continue, the practical training in our clinics, hospitals, etc. will be reinforced through simulation exercises. We will also have the manikins, some of which are computer-

for the nursing students as well as give them the opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge to use in “real-world” scenarios.

This advanced technology is expected to play an integral role in ensuring that the students gain useful experience and are prepared for future employment in the public health field.

“We are ensuring that

ised to mimic various conditions such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, etc.” Dr. Ramsammy explained.

He also stated that these exercises allow the nurses to practice in addition to having their practical in the medical facilities with real patients.

Dr. Ramsammy further added that this will strengthen the training programmes and provide more hands-on expe-

rience for the trainee nurses.

Speaking with this publication, he said that this lab will also allow for simulation exercises with nurses who are already qualified. “Overall, the simulation labs will improve the quality of our training programmes and our continuing education programmes. One of the best things is that both the trainees and nurses in service do not

‘real-world’ scenarios

have to wait for supervised practice; they can practice with the simulation manikins at any time, as many times as possible, and as long as possible. I would also like to encourage the nurses who are residents of the nursing school to make full use of the opportunities that are at their disposal and practice in the simulation labs.”

Dr. Ramsammy said that the aim is to ensure that all Guyanese benefit from a modern and affordable health care system. “No sector in any country can claim perfection, but our President, Dr. Ali, has spoken about giving us a world-class health care system, and the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has spoken about the redefinition of primary health care, and Minister Frank Anthony, in his budget speech, spoke about Guyana being on the rise of a health revolution.”

He also pointed out that everyone can observe what transpired between 2015 and 2020 under the previous administration. According to him, the health sector remained stagnant, life expectancy did not rise, the theatres at hospitals such as New Amsterdam were closed due to the lack of anaesthesia, X-rays in Six collapsed, Regions One, Seven, Six, Eight, and Nine had more down time than access, and the number one cataract centre in Port Mourant was closed by 2020, amongst other issues.

“In approximately four years since the PPP/C took office, we have made significant advancements in life expectancy (approaching 71 years), premature deaths have dropped to 58 percent from greater than 80 percent, access to medicines has improved to greater than 85 percent, and we have in-

creased the surgical outputs from around 12,000–13,000 surgeries annually to more than 20,000 surgeries annually. Cataract surgeries are now averaged between 100 and 200 per month at Port Mourant, and I must say that all the X-rays in Region Six with the exception of Skelton hospital have digital X-rays.”

Dr. Ramsammy said that the ‘Georgetown’ hospital is performing “many historical surgeries” and surgeries that are being performed for the first time in Guyana and often for the first time in the Caribbean.

“We have become the Kidney and Cornea Transplant Centre in the Caribbean, and we have 13 new hospitals under construction, and what I have listed is just a short list of all that is happening in the sector and the improvements in the last three and a half years.”

Teachers die in Moruca boat accident

TWO persons have died as a result of a boat accident involving a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard vessel and a civilian vessel in the Moruca River, Region One, on Friday.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the victims of the accident are teachers Helen Rebai and Adrian Thomas.

Rebai’s three-month-old, who was also aboard the boat, survived along with

28-year-old Shelly Allen.

According to information, the collision between the Coast Guard Raiders Craft 17 (RC 17) and the civilian vessel occurred at approximately 06:45 hrs. The RC 17 carried personnel from the Coast Guard. Thomas was reportedly the operator of the civilian vessel. The Coast Guard personnel aboard the RC 17 have not reported any injuries.

Allen, during an inter- view with reporters, related that they were heading to

Charity when the collision occurred with the Coast Guard vessel around a turn near Kumaka.

Rebai and baby along with Thomas were sitting on the right hand side of the boat. And due to the collision, the boat was reportedly split down the middle.

Allen recalled sitting on the left half of the boat, searching for the baby before she eventually found and rescued the three-month-old.

Reports are that the civilians were recovered and taken to the Charity Oscar Joseph Hospital where Rebai and Thomas succumbed to their injuries, while the threemonth-old and Allen were admitted.

The Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, officers and ranks of the GDF extended sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident.

Minister of Health Frank Anthony, trainee nurses, and officials observe as exercise is being conducted on a manikin

Trainee nurses participate in exercise during the launch of the new state-of-theart stimulation laboratory at Charles Rosa Nursing School in Linden, Region 10

The Ministry of Health advisor, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

Dead: Adrian Thomas

Dead: Helen Rebai

Guyana proud of its achievements

–– calls for more genuine constructive dialogue based

“THE United Nations Human Rights Committee considered Guyana’s third periodic report under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) during the 4097th, 4099th and 4101st meetings held in hybrid format from March 18 to 20, 2024.

The ICCPR is one of the eight core United Nations Human Rights Treaties which Guyana has ratified, out of a total of nine treaties.

This is nothing short of a major achievement for a small developing country since many developed countries have not ratified several of the UN Human Rights Treaties, and as such, have not submitted themselves to be scrutinized and held accountable to the standards of those covenants, conventions, and treaties.

The ICCPR, which forms part of the Universal Bill of Rights (a combination of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the ICCPR) provides for a range of protections of civil and political rights.

States that have ratified this treaty are bound to protect and preserve basic human rights, such as: the right to life and human dignity; equality before the law; freedom of speech, assembly, and association; religious freedom; freedom from torture, ill-treatment, and arbitrary detention; gender equality; the right to a fair trial; right to family life and family unity; and minority rights - these rights are enshrined in the Guyana Constitution and several statutes.

The Covenant requires the State Parties to take administrative, judicial, and legislative measures to protect the rights enshrined in the treaty and to provide effective remedies. As a state party to the ICCPR, Guyana has a legal obligation to progressively undertake measures to implement the provisions to protect the civil and political rights included in the Covenant.

Under Article 40 of the ICCPR, Guyana is required to submit periodic reports to the UN Human Rights Committee on the measures adopted or those in progress to give effect to the rights the Covenant establishes.

In other words, the review process is fundamentally a “progress report” on good faith efforts made by State parties to implement the rights and standards enshrined in that covenant.

On August 30, 2021, Guyana submitted its ‘Third Periodic Report’ on the ICCPR, under the simplified reporting procedure, responding to the List of Issues Prior to Reporting (LOIPR) it received

from the UN Human Rights Committee, in accordance with article 40 of the ICCPR.

It should be noted that the LOIPR was officially sent to Guyana on August 31, 2020, only a few weeks after the PPP/C government assumed office following the attempts by the APNU+AFC and their operatives to thwart the will of the Guyanese people in the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

The newly established Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, being the agency with the mandate for human rights and anti-corruption treaty reporting on behalf of the State, promptly began to assess the LOIPR and set up a National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-up (NMRF).

The Ministry then collected available information, data and statistics, consolidated information and data, prepared numerous draft versions of the report in collaboration with various agencies, and the final version of the third periodic report within the stipulated word limit was submitted to the UNHRC on August 30, 2021, as previously stated.

Guyana submitted the report being fully aware of the standard review process that is invoked upon the submission of any treaty report.

That is, the report would be published, shadow reports would be accepted from civil society organisations, and the UN’s Human Rights Committee would eventually review the report and invite Guyana to a “constructive dialogue” to assess the contents of the report and to seek answers to additional queries with the aim of better understanding the situation in Guyana to inform the committee’s concluding observations.

CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE

Notably, the emphasis is on “constructive dialogue” and not “Shame and Blame” as the UNHRC knows that not one country in the world has fully complied or implemented the ICCPR nor any other human rights treaties - all are at different stages of implementation or compliance.

The countries which have ratified the ICCPR commendably subject themselves to review and this has traditionally been viewed as a valuable process in the evolution of human rights in a rapidly developing global landscape.

This was emphasised in the two briefings with Guyana by the UNHRC Secretariat staff and the Commonwealth Small States Division in Geneva, prior to the review.

The Human Rights Committee, a treaty-based mechanism of independent experts, is mandated to monitor the implementation of the ICCPR by state parties,

and expectations are that the Committee considers and examines State party’s report using the public constructive dialogue methodology.

Guyana’s delegation was officially identified to the UNHRC and notably was comprised primarily of members of the National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-up (NMRFU), a mechanism advocated by the UNHRC for countries to adopt.

This too was part of the Ministry’s continuous efforts to expose young professionals to the human rights treaty reporting process to strengthen institutional capacity across various ministries and agencies within Guyana’s human rights architecture.

During the sessions from March 18 to 20, 2024, the Guyana delegation engaged with members of the Human Rights Committee on the list of issues as well as other information they sought based on what they called “credible sources” including information received from CSOs’ “shadow reports”.

It should be noted that for decades, Guyana has engaged in such constructive dialogues with various UN Treaty bodies and their review processes, and there has been a commendable track record of healthy and respectful engagement with these bodies under the numerous treaties which Guyana has ratified.

This methodology is not novel to Guyana since the State has been reviewed by various such Committees on several other occasions under the Universal Periodic Review and numerous Conventions including:

• Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)

• Convention against Torture and Other Cruel Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment (CAT)

• Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)

• International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD)

• International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR)

• International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (CMW)

• Convention Against Corruption

• Inter-American Convention against Corruption.

However, the recent inimical and unbending expectations adopted by the 2024 Human Rights Committee are quite worrying as Guyana has never been subjected in previous reviews to such an adversarial engagement with an apparent objective to “shame and blame” the State.

The State brought to the attention of the Committee, and members of the Committee also acknowledged and concurred, that the short time frame did not permit the State to comprehensively respond to questions which required very detailed responses and, in some cases, very detailed statistics.

Surprisingly, however, members of the Committee went on to further upbraid the Hon. Minister Gail Teixeira, head of delegation, for not providing more detailed responses or not addressing the abundance of questions posed to the State.

Subsequent reviews of the questions revealed that there were over 140 questions asked, each requiring extremely detailed information and statistics. This task is undoubtedly impossible for any State party which is only provided with 40 minutes per day to respond to the questions each day.

One Committee member, for example, asked 17 questions at one time. Thus, the time allocated for this large amount of questions was simply not enough for any State party to provide comprehensive responses.

Many of the questions were beyond the mandate of the Committee, particularly those where the State party had been reviewed by the Inter-American Convention against Corruption and its report adopted on March 14, 2024, or was pending review by another UN treaty body such as the UN Convention against Corruption.

Guyana is of the firm belief that State parties can only engage in constructive dialogue when a system or methodology is fair and impartial and where expectations are practicable.

Guyana also indicated in writing to the UNHRC that whilst there is an opportunity for the State party to provide

The following is the full text of a statement from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance:

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira

achievements in civil, political rights

based on facts, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs says

additional information to the committee within 48 hours after the completion of the hybrid review, this information would never be seen by persons who were tuned into the live webcast.

UNFAIR

The State party firmly believes that this is unfair as it does not allow the viewers to learn of the State party’s comprehensive responses to questions which may have gone unanswered due to the limited and strict time allocations.

It should be remembered that in the preamble to the review process on March 18, 2024, the Chairperson made it clear that the Committee would use credible sources such as UN documents, academia, and civil society.

However, the State party had cause to express concern about the credibility and validity of information including numerous pieces of fractured (or at best anecdotal) information that the Committee sought responses on, which were only then being brought to the attention of the State. However, this was quickly dismissed by a committee member who indicated that, in her opinion, all information had been thoroughly cross-checked, and all information received are available on the OHCHR website.

This was proven to be false since matters pertaining to the failure to investigate allegations of corruption by the Vice President, allegations of corruption by the judiciary, cybercrime allegations against Rickford Burke and allegations of children being held in adult prisons, for example, were never mentioned in any of the nine civil society “shadow reports” available online. Further, one committee member alleged with conviction that 90% of the local media was owned and operated by the state or were supporters of the government.

This allegation is the furthest from fact and is a manifestation of the blatant mistruths which the committee unapologetically entertained. Any Guyanese would be able to validate that this information is blatantly untrue and baseless.

There were numerous sources of credible and verifiable information which were ignored by the Committee, including Guyana’s many submissions over the last three years in response to UN special rapporteurs and independent experts’ calls for information, the annual UNDP Human Development Index, reports from other UN agencies including UNFPA, UNICEF, the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the IMF Article 4 statements on Guyana, World Bank and IDB reports which refer to Guyana, Guyana’s reports on its anticorruption measures in its 2nd self-assessment to the UN Convention Against Corruption and Guyana’s report to the IACAC MESICIC

in 2023 and 2024, its reports to the EITI as well as Guyana’s 2023 Voluntary National Review Report to UN, all of which are publicly posted on websites.

It should be emphasised that members of the Committee serve in their personal capacity, and not as representatives of their governments, which is intended to allow for the proceedings of the Committee to be politically impartial. However, Guyana is perplexed that a member of the Committee would seek answers to matters that were currently related to a citizen of that country which the Committee member is a national.

Even after over 100 pages of additional information with data was provided within the 48 hours (March 22nd) as required, the Committee went ahead with preparing the Advance Unedited Version (AUV) of its Concluding Observations, in what appeared to be a complete dismissal of the additional information provided by the State.

According to the methodology of the Human Rights Committee, Guyana was given 24 hours (March 27th) to comment and identify only factual errors in this draft document. Although the State provided detailed information regarding factual errors within the stipulated time, it was disheartening to see these numerous errors, which were already addressed during the review process, and each identified again in the March 27, 2024, document, were again included and published in the Concluding Observations.

One can only conclude that the Committee refused to consider the factual errors identified by the State. Guyana is cognizant that no country’s record of protecting and promoting civil and political rights is perfect nor free from criticism.

In the same round of reviews by the Committee, vastly more developed countries like the United Kingdom also received recommendations for strengthening its commitments under the ICCPR, and in the previous round of reviews, countries like the United States of America were also reviewed.

Interestingly, the Committee never made comments in its Concluding Observations to the USA about the reversal of the Roe V. Wade judgement which struck down crucial jurisprudence and directly affected the right to choose for women.

CLANDESTINE ABORTIONS

In contrast, Guyana was bombarded with false accusations of “clandestine abortions”, for which the committee nor its informants could provide any source or evidence.

Further, with regards to the death penalty, Guyana is proud to report that no individual has been executed by the State

since 1997 in keeping with an informal moratorium on the death penalty, which was repeatedly stated during the review.

Whereas other developed countries which were reviewed are actively implementing the death penalty using some of the most gruesome means of execution in the modern world, and yet they only received “a slap on the wrist” from the Committee.

These are just a few examples of the grave inequalities which continue to affect small developing countries like Guyana at the global level.

Guyana, as one of the poorest in the western hemisphere in 1992, has worked to overcome the enormous obstacles that have encumbered our potential for development, from slavery and indentureship, colonialism, political and civil interference, restoration of democracy, attempts to undermine democracy, and new and modern threats to our democracy and sovereignty.

Guyana is proud and our people should be applauded for the significant legislative and policy achievements we have made as a small developing country, particularly when one remembers the struggles to restore democracy and the traumatic and difficult challenges to build a democratic nation over the last 30 years.

This was explicitly outlined during the presentation made by the head of delegation throughout the review process.

The State party did identify the challenges that we continue to experience as a small country with a small population and extremely diverse geography and terrain, but also highlighted some of the mechanisms implemented and being sought to overcome these challenges. Many of these were Guyana “home grown” and provide unique models globally such as the LCDS 2009 and LCDS 2030, the Guyana Constitution, the Amerindian Act etc., regrettably, these were completely overlooked by the Committee.

It is understood that the review process is intended to streamline the reporting procedure and improve the quality of the dialogue with States parties. However, it is unfortunate that the Human Rights Committee review processes which are customarily conducted in a constructive manner was for the first time steered into unconstructive engagement.

This was unfortunately quite distinct from the other processes which Guyana has subjected itself to, including the most recent 6th cycle review of Guyana’s anti-corruption framework by the OAS MESISIC, and its review by the Caribbean Financial Action task Force (CFATF/ FATF) which included robust dialogue and extensive reviews including on-site reviews in which government agencies,

constitutional bodies, and civil society organizations participated.

The State is committed to its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and will continue to invest resources to ensure the rights of all Guyanese are upheld under Guyana’s Constitution and the Covenant.

This is even more evident as the government moves forward with the constitutional reform process in which the Guyanese people through expansive public participation and consultation will decide on their concerns and any of those raised by the Committee. As a sovereign state, the Guyanese people will decide.

We are immensely proud of the progress that Guyana, in the last three years has made and the trademarks that we continue to make globally, and the Government will continue to spare no efforts in ensuring that development for the betterment of the lives of all Guyanese people is paramount.

The Government will continue to make critical investments and advancements to enhance the constitutional and legislative framework of Guyana, strengthen the institutional capacity of constitutional and statutory bodies, improve access to education, healthcare and social services, advance the rights of indigenous peoples and all vulnerable groups, further diversify the economy, capitalise on its resources, address discrimination wherever it appears frontally, ensure that the rights of the most vulnerable groups are protected, and promote equal rights, equal opportunities and equitable access to goods and services in a transparent, accountable, inclusive and participatory model.

This will be implemented despite those miniscule elements who appear to have a distaste in seeing their own small developing country and other small developing countries, and their citizens, reach their true potential.

In doing so, Guyana recognises that it is part of a global landscape, and that it has responsibilities to play a meaningful role in engagements with its neighbours, its region, and its international partners, including though the mechanisms of the covenants, conventions, and treaties which the State has ratified.

As such, the Government of Guyana is committed to continue being transparent in its reporting process and avails itself to engage in dialogues with both regional and international institutional systems that genuinely seek to constructively examine and even learn from the experiences of an emerging global leader in numerous crucial sectors. Our mantra remains equal rights, equal opportunities and equitable access to goods and services for all our people to ensure that “no one is left behind.”

Donation to Palestine to be facilitated during observances of Lailatul Qadr at ‘Ramadan Village’

According to a press release, this historic event, at the MYO Ground, Woolford Avenue, will commence with the breaking of the fast on the evening of Saturday and conclude with the Fajr prayers on the morning of Sunday.

The official programme will be held after the Taraweeh prayers (specific to the Holy month of Ramadan) on Saturday.

It will include supplications, recitation and translation of verses from the Holy Quran, an explanation of Lailatul Qadr, Quaseedas and remarks by Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and Yesim Oruc, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in Guyana.

This is the first time that Lailatul Qadr, generally observed on the 27th Night of the Holy Month of Ramadan, will be marked with open-air supplication and prayers here in Guyana.

Following the official programme, supplications and prayers will be facilitated throughout the night and into the morning. Suhoor (morning meal) will be provided for all those who will commence their fast for Sunday, April 07, 2024.

Lailatul Qadr is the night when Muslims believe the Quran was first sent down from heaven to the world and also the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). It is described as better than a thousand months of worshipping.

A key component of “Qiyaam Lailatul Qadr”, would be the facilitation of donations to the people of Palestine. This is an effort to provide some assistance to those who continue to suffer and have been displaced in the ongoing war.

This effort is endorsed by the Office of the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations, which will also provide support to facilitate the delivery of funds raised. Cash donations will be accepted with cheques payable to CIOG. Donations will be accepted from 16:30 hours – 23:30 hours.

In addition, GBTI account number 011804260012 is opened to facilitate donations from persons unable to attend and those residing overseas.

The organisers thanked the Guyanese brothers and sisters, who are known for their generosity in support of worthy causes.

April 05-07, marks the final weekend for the National Ramadan Village which was well attended with maximum participation thus far.

THE organisers of the National Ramadan Village; the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO), and the Government of Guyana will be hosting “Qiyaam Lailatul Qadr” – A night of Prayer for Global Peace, Guyana and Palestine” today.

APNU-controlled City Hall’s neglect leads to severe deterioration of Stabroek Market

–– Minister Parag highlights after observing ‘awful’ conditions, engaging concerned vendors

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, has said that she is disheartened at seeing the deplorable conditions that vendors have been enduring for years at the Stabroek Market.

She wanted to see for herself what the situation was like, having heard of the complaints that vendors have been making for years.

On Friday, they were able to express such concerns to

Minister Parag as she engaged in a walkabout at the location, along with several party councillors.

Minister Parag was able to see first-hand the unclean and unsafe market space that exists not only for the vendors, but for every person visiting the market on a day to day basis.

In an invited comment, Minister Parag said that the councillors have been trying to make interventions at the level of the Mayor and City

Council (M&CC) for more to be done to restore the market, however, no progress has been made on this.

He said: “So I decided to do a walkabout in the market with them to see the state of the market and to hear the complaints and issues of persons. As you know, we at the ministry have our side to work on the market but specifically these areas, the Mayor and City Council has oversight.”

Minister Parag stressed

that the work of maintaining the market belongs to the M&CC, noting: “I am really disheartened at what I’ve been seeing so far, walking through these areas, and these markets have been plagued with these kinds of issues for years, and nothing has been changing.

“Nothing has been changing for them although we have persons, such as the councillors who are here, and the reason they are here is that they have been making

these complaints in the meetings so that they can try and get them addressed but that’s not happening.”

Based on the observations made throughout the market, as well as the complaints and pleas from vendors for betterment, the market has a serious leakage, drainage and garbage issue together with a deplorable structure and unsanitary facilities. Space, or the lack of space for people and goods (food, cleaning and cloth -

ing items) was also another issue.

The vendors were not hesitant in telling the minister about the awful conditions under which they have worked for years and are pleading with officials to look after the market.

According to the minister, these are things that the M&CC should be doing, but fail to do. The M&CC is responsible for the local government functions of the capital city.

Enhanced monitoring, new technology lead to decline in illegal mining

–– President Ali says

OWING to investments in technology, Guyana has seen a decline in illegal mining in its forested regions, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said.

The Head of State made this disclosure on Thursday during a presentation at the Sixth Annual Security Challenges in Latin America Forum held at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Centre, School of Advanced International Studies, United States of America. He highlighted that il -

legal gold mining in the Amazon Basin has been an issue stakeholders have been working to address. “If you look at our population and the size of our defence force and our law enforcement capability, you will see how difficult it is to police our geographic space or to monitor it,” he said, adding: “Today we can deploy technology that is helping us and we are investing in that technology so we have greater success in identifying, illegal mining

and in bringing those, who are culpable to justice.”

According to Dr. Ali, there is an “inextricable link” between national security and natural security that requires attention. “We have had tremendous reduction in illegal mining. We have more constant monitoring. We have invested more in field officers, and we have more, technology, as I said, deployed to help us in mitigating against this,” he said.

Back in September 2023, this publication reported that gold mining in the Siparuni

area has drastically decreased due to the combined efforts of Iwokrama’s rangers, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Police Force.

An annual report from the Iwokrama International Centre said that a decrease in illegal mining was recorded. While the centre did not reveal any specific statistics, it did, however, state that some persons still continue to defy the law and continue to trespass into the Iwokrama Forest.

The report said that monitoring continues with the implantation of a comprehensive

monitoring system, through which data is collected and analysed, to monitor changes in naturally dynamic systems and the impact of human activities on the ecosystem.

It includes social, bio-physical, road and river, forest impact, wildlife, water quality and boundary monitoring.

Social monitoring applies a Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework that allows for the identification of trends and implementation of mitigation measures.

Bio-physical monitoring

identifies target components to monitor pressures acting upon the ecosystem. The information, when analysed, is used to detect and identify trends over the period and informs management systems and forest management planning.

Meanwhile, Iwokrama has existing memoranda of co-operation for community co-monitoring with Surama, Apoteri and Rewa villages, the three indigenous communities located near the rivers that border or pass through the Iwokrama Forest.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag and councillors interacting with vendors of the Stabroek Market during their walkabout (Photos: Shaniece Bamfield)

ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83

Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) CSK & Gujarat Titans

(2) M S Dhoni & Hardik Pandya

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which two teams battled in the 2023 IPL final?

(2) Who was voted Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Judges not overwhelmed as elite CrossFit athletes descend on Guyana

–– Action commences today at the National Aquatic Centre

SOME of the best names in CrossFit are set to descend on Guyana for the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championships, which will be held on April 6 and 7 (today and tomorrow).

The judges in charge of ensuring those athletes correctly perform all of the rigours of the tasking are not overwhelmed by the presence of top-tier athletes on show, as they have spent years becoming best qualified and prepared for the event.

One of the Judges, Lee Fung-A-Fat, is motivated by his role as he believes the event will further showcase Guyana’s ability to host major CrossFit events in the future.

Fung-A-Fat indicated they have prepared through an in-depth course, and while these athletes are very experienced, they are more than equipped to ensure the event maintains high judging standards.

This year’s event has already attracted the attention of top athletes from the Netherlands, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Suriname, Bahamas and French Guiana, and interest from Dubai.

By attracting high-calibre athletes, Kares CrossFit has collaborated with Competition Corner, a dynam -

ic registration, planning, and scoring software built for Functional Fitness and Weightlifting competitions globally.

In August-September, the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship aims to host a scaled event in Trinidad and Tobago, while the 2025 edition of its main event is headed to the United Kingdom.

On April 6, athletes will head to the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal for a series of workouts, and they will return to action on April 7 on the National Park tarmac from 11:00hours.

General admission is G$1,000, while VIP tickets cost G$7,000 each.

Milo Schools Football Championship Round Three kicks off at MOE and QC grounds

THE Milo Schools Football Championship will see play in rounds three and four this weekend at the Ministry of Education and Queen’s College grounds.

The games will kick off at the Queen’s College ground from 12:30 hours on Saturday with Marian Academy meeting Bartica Secondary.

Marian will be aiming to bounce back after their 4-2 loss to L’Adventure Secondary.

New Amsterdam Secondary will meet Leonora Secondary at 14:00 hours, while Ann’s Grove, who edged Santa Rosa Secondary, will face off with East Ruimveldt in the final contest of the day at that venue.

Over at the Ministry of Education ground, defending champions Chase Academy; coming off their 4-nil victory over Abram’s Zuil Secondary will tackle Bush Lot at 13:00 hours before

the informed West Ruimveldt Secondary clash with Yarrowkabra.

West Ruimveldt had a huge 7-1 win over New Central High on Sunday last.

Carmel Secondary closes off the day against Dolphin Secondary.

On Sunday at MOE ground, Bishops’ High plays Hope Secondary and Santa Rosa Secondary locks horns with Charlestown Secondary.

President’s College is also set to go head-to-head with Waramauri at 16:00 hours in what is expected to be a scorcher with the ‘hinterland’ side in fine touch after a 7-nil stoppage of Hope Secondary last week.

At QC ground, Abram Zuil will look to take a win against North Ruimveldt, L’Adventure will aim to continue their winning ways against South Ruimveldt and New Central High are set to play the host Queen’s College.

Guinness MVP Mark gifted football boots

BEVNEY Mark, the most valuable player (MVP) of the recently concluded Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship, was officially presented with a pair of football boots by Colours Boutique on Wednesday for his exploits during the tournament.

Mark was pivotal to Laing Avenue winning the championship for the first time in their history following a 2-1 victory over former champion North Ruimveldt in the final at the National Park tarmac, Thomas Lands.

Speaking at the simple but significant presentation held at Colours Boutique’s Robb Street location, Mark, besides expressing delight at receiving the pair of shoes and winning the prestigious championship, said: “It’s [the tournament] a great impact on the community for the young ones coming up and the supporters. For me, they know I do play good football, so they are depending on me.”

The soft-spoken forward disclosed that the team will continue to train and prepare

for the upcoming national championships. “Well, we are not waiting,” he said. We have a church yard, and the boss does allow us to have a night session. So, the same thing we do in the Guinness is the same thing we do among ourselves.”

According to Mark, the event was a wonderful initiative, and the team, following their victory, donated a portion of their winnings to the community. “We invested in the community, so we separated and took a couple of youths, bought kites, and took them out on the field, and they feel very grateful about it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Terrence Nero, captain of Laing Avenue, said: “It feels great, especially to me, my players, and also the community. It gives us that extra boost to elevate and go and win more in the years to come, or the future, as you may say. Also, it gives us a little more recognition in the community, and with other players and teams out there. We know that it will be harder for us, going forward, because the bigger teams and the un -

derdogs, as they would call them, will be gunning for us, but we will be prepared.”

Asked about the reception afforded the team by the community following their victory, Nero disclosed, “I can’t explain that; it was so nice to know the entire community supported us throughout everything, and we had a very good turnout in terms of support. For the youths out there, we are like idols to them, because, ever since we won, they are like we are next, and we are going to take your place. I feel very nice to hear that from the youths coming up under us.”

As to whether the camaraderie and overall social cohesion within the community been strengthened since their triumph, Nero said, “I believe so; it has already started, because, eleven years after we won the Guinness Greatest of the Streets, we are getting a lot of opportunities, and people are asking what you guys need and those things, and if we need any help.”

According to Nero, “I would like to say that it’s a

GCB Women’s U-19 T20 Inter-County bowls off tomorrow

THE

Women’s U-19 Inter- County T20 tournament bowls off Sunday with first round opponents Demerara or Essequibo looking to draw first blood.

Sunday’s opener will bowl off from 13:30hrs with round 2 on Monday April 7. Round two will feature Essequibo and Berbice battling each other from 13:30hrs.

The final round bowls off on Tuesday April 9 with Demerara squaring off against Berbice.

Realeanna Grimmond, Niya Latchman, Naomi Barkoye, Tricia Hardat, Laurene Williams and others will be on show representing their respective county teams.

All three rounds will be played at the Malteenoes Sports Club Ground.

Berbice U-19 Team - Crystal Durant, Trisha Hardat (V/C), Daniela Hicks, Kaina Leitch, Denellie Lindee,

very good job they’re doing, and I hope that they keep it up. Let it be bigger, so that more teams will be recognised. All we know is that when football comes, especially this, the youths out there keep themselves out of

trouble, and it keeps a lot of togetherness with them in the sport. I would hope and pray that banks continue doing what they are doing, which is doing a very great job, especially for the youth, and I expect them to continue.”

Asked about the team’s objective for the impending national championship, he said, “We will be training to get even better; working harder to keep our fitness in, so that we can become the national champs.”

Over 100 attend Linden Easter

Darshanie Subramanie, Tiea Isaacs, Renata Liverpool, Danellie Manns, Lakshmi Mahadeo, Realeanna Grimmond (C) Jamie Campbell, Jade Campbell and Tenicia Solomon

Demerara U-19 Team - Naomi Barkoye (C), Tilleya Maramootoo (VC), Niya Latchman, Chelsea Latiff, Areah Ally, Aneesha Chetram, Ceara Barkoye, Rachel Sukhai, Areefa Khan, Cassidy Singh, Rachael Joseph, Abigail Benjamin, Mahandevi Dass, Shanaya Macy, Aaliyah Clarke, Rebekah Joseph, Tamica Simon and Shoba Harrinarine

Essequibo U-19 Team - Thalia Hack, Laurene Williams ( C), Jayara Rodrigues, Kitania Roberts, Tremaine Marks, Ashanna Mohamed, Brianna Samaroo, Ashanti Mohamed, Qzel Sampson, Shonette Belgrave, Latoya Williams, Aliah DaSilva, Ansia Mangra, Roxanne Hendricks, Keliaha Fredricks, Neesa Samuels.

‘Learn to Swim’ sessions

THE Linden leg of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/ National Sports Commission’s (NSC) Easter ‘Teach Them Young’ Learn to Swim annual programme concluded yesterday at the Watooka Pool in the mining town.

The two-week classes catered for children aged six to 18 years and had a regular attendance of over one hundred youths on the day.

The sessions took place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Friday (yesterday).

The scores of children drawn from all across Linden namely Wismar, Mackenzie, Christianburg, Amelia’s Ward, Watooka and the Mines were taught the basics of swimming.

National swimming coach Mrs. Mary Chung-Phillips was assisted by

Reyanna Stellingburg, Lavisha Cornelius, Petuna Coppin, Cecilia Hinds, Ibi-Ann Phillips, Gelina Wilkinson, Denroy Trotman and Deandre Smith during the sessions which took place from 09:00 hours to 12:00 hours.

The camp was also visited by newly appointed Region 10 Youth Officer Mrs. Kenesha Dey-Venture who interacted with the swimmers and pledged her support towards youth development in the region.

Mrs. Chung-Phillips informed that an adult Learn to Swim programme will be held during the month of May as the interest is there for persons who want to learn.

She said this will be sponsored also by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport on May 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26.

Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)

Laing Avenue’s Bevney Mark, the MVP of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship receives his prize from Safisha Hope, Colours Boutique Supervisor

GUMDAC Easter Badminton tournament …

Number one Priyanna Ramdhani among first-night winners

By Sean Devers

THE GBA’s GUMDAC-sponsored threenight Badminton tournament commenced on Thursday with many ‘old stagers’ returning to the sport after long periods of self-imposed exile.

The tournament, which is being held at the National Gymnasium attracted several young ‘first timers as well.

Watched by a sizable gathering, the night’s first round in the women’s ‘doubles’ was between Guyana’s best female player 22-year-old Priyanna Ramdhani and the 30-year-old Caribbean Squash Queen Ashley Khalil.

Khalil who in 2007 was the National Champion in both Badminton and Squash at the U15, U17 & U19 levels was paired with Anna Perrier while Ramdhani, currently ranked 308 among the world’s best female Badminton players, had Mishka Beharry as her partner.

Ramdhani, who represented Guyana at the International level with success and Kahlil, returning to Badminton for the first time in 15 years were the dominant players among the pairs.

Khalil showing a bit of ‘ring rust’ could not return of few of Ramdhani’s clinical ‘smashes’ while Khalil scored most of her points, expertly landing her ‘drop shots’ to ‘left court’ where Beharry failed to reach them.

Ramdhani, who returned last month from Cuba after reaching the quarter-finals of the Cuba International Badminton tournament there, showed her class here.

In the end, Ramdhani & Beharry were too good for their opposition winning 21-15, 21-17.

In the other Women’s ‘Doubles’ games

Neveah Eastman and Malia Haley beat Aaliyah Bacchus and Tyra Gomes 21-17, 21-12.

The competition continued last evening with finals to be contested today.

FULL RESULTS BELOW

Alimah and Asiyah Eastman beat Leshaunte Berkley and Gabriella Felix 21-15, 21-17.

Shivannie Persaud and Ayanna Watson beat Genieve Bookram and Gianna Ramnarine 21-13, 21-4.

Ashley Khalil and Anna Perreira beat Priyanka Shivnauth and Joanne Tan 21-7, 21-3.

Leshaunte Berkley and Gabrielle Felix beat Priya Henry and Jefina James 21-1, 21-6.

In men’s doubles:

Akili Haynes and Tyrese Jeffrey beat Shane Birkett and Percival Chester 21-1, 21-5

Troxley Cutting and Grandison Robinson beat Gavin Cao and Lim Haut Tat 21-12, 21-3.

Colin Bowry and Jahiem Carmichael beat

Leslie Liu and Hemant Ramdhani 21-6, 21-13.

Avinash Odit and Javid Rahaman beat

Yonneil Benjamin and Christopher Jordon 21-5,21-7.

Nkosi Beaton and Frank Waddle beat Vinai Datt and Mohamed Farouk 21-6, 21-3.

KFC Elite League

Matthew Klautky and Omkar Persaud beat

Marcus Samuels and Jamal Sinclair 18-21, 22-20, 20-21, 21-16.

William (Billy) Holder and Jason-Ray Khalil beat Andrew Browne and Jason Stephney 21-13, 21-16.

Wenyuan Chen and Marlon Chung beat Vishal Gopaul and Haresh Persaud 21-5, 21-10.

Gavin Cao and Lim Huat Tat beat Gabriel Felix and Nicolas Pollard 21-12, 21-18.

Leslie Liu and Hemant Ramdhani beat Ruel Rambiriche and Avinash Ramnarine 21-15, 21-10.

Matthew Klautky and Omkar Persaud beat Ethan Bulkan and Edgar Bulkan 21-8, 21-4.

William (Billy) Holder and Jason-Ray Khalil beat Jonathan Robinson and Raah Russell 21-12, 21-12.

MIXED DOUBLES:

Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdhani beat Shane Birkett and Ihatiah Frank 21-1, 21-1.

Jason-Ray Khalil and Ashley Khalil beat Yonneil Benjamin and Aaliyah Bacchus 2112, 21-2.

Wenyuan Chen and Shivannie Persuad beat Vishal Gopaul and Gabrielle Felix 21-

Slingerz ‘sling-up’ Ann’s Grove to go second on table Fruta

‘conquers’ Buxton United FC

SLINGERZ FC continued their imperious run in Season Six of the KFC Elite League when they took a commanding victory over Ann’s Grove United in the feature clash on Thursday at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC).

The first half of the contest proved even as both sides battled without success; the match going into the break nil-all.

However, Slingers Jamaican Coach Alex Thomas inspired his charges to up their game in the second half and that is exactly what they did.

Marcus Tudor led the

line with a pair of goals in the 51st and 55th minutes of play to give Slingerz the lead.

Jerome Harrigan then made it for 3-nil in the 83rd minute despite a feisty period of play in which several attempts for Ann’s Grove went awry.

Jamal Corrington then added to Ann’s Grove woes in the 89th before Gabriel DeSouza came off the mark with an injury time goal to give Slingerz a 5-nil win.

The win moves Slingerz within three points of table leaders Guyana Police Force with 18 points (six wins in six games). Slingerz have 15 points (five wins in five games)

12, 21-12.

Nkosi Beaton and Anna Perreira beat

Colin Bowry and Priya Henry 21-12, 21-13. Tyrese Jeffrey and Ambika Ramraj beat Avinash Ramnarine and Neveah Eastman 21-8, 21-9.

Frank Waddell and Leshaunte Berkley beat Egan Bulkan and Roseann Bulkan 21-7, 21-13.

Nikolas Pollard and Alimah beat Jahiem Carmichael 21-12, 13-21, 21-14.

Avinash Odit & Mishka & Raah Russell beat Tyra Gomes 21-7, 21-9.

Yonneil Benjamin & Aaliyah Bacchus got a walk-over from Anthony Stephens & Asiyah Eastman.

Colin Bowry & Priya Henry beat Ruel Rambiriche & Gianna Ramnarine 21-17, 21-13.

Frank Waddle & Leshaunte Berkley beat Jason Stephney & Harshini Muralidharan 21-16, 21-19.

Jahiem Carmichael & Jefina James beat Omkar Persaud & Genieve Bookram 21-13, 21-13.

Raah Russell & Tyra Gomes beat Gabriel Felix & Malia Haley 21-12, 16-21, 21-7

Marcus

with Western Tiger third on 9 points (three wins in five games).

Meanwhile, the opening clash was a one-sided affair as Buxton failed to register a goal against former elite league winners Fruta Conquerors.

The game seemed almost wrapped up in the first half as Fruta registered 4 goals by the break.

Antwon Denny got onto the score sheet to record a double before the break.

A sterner defensive effort from Buxton United then saw solidifying the ‘back-line’ and not conceding further goals. Their effort however didn’t translate on the offensive end as they went down without troubling the scorer’s 4-nil.

Makhaya Jervis was the first to the back of the net in the 30th minute of play before Dwayne Jones got in on the action three minutes after.

Fruta’s goal scorer Dwayne Jones on the ball

Tudor Who scored a brace for Slingerz going for goal

The participants and officials stand in front of the sponsor’s banner

Judges not overwhelmed as elite CrossFit athletes descend on Guyana

Some of the best athletes in the world are in Guyana to compete at the two-day event which starts today –– Action commences today at the National Aquatic Centre seestoryonpage25

GUMDAC Easter Badminton tournament…

Number one Priyanna Ramdhani among first-night winners

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Priyanna Ramdhani (back) and Mishka Beharry beat Ashely Khalil and Anna Pereira