Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 01-06-2023

Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo met with residents from several South Georgetown communities on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

25 Guyanese to receive maritime scholarships through ACMF

TWENTY-FIVE Guyanese will have the opportunity to pursue studies and training in the maritime sector through the provision of fully-funded scholarships being offered by the Florida-based American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF).

ACMF announced on Wednesday that it will be partnering with Guyana’s premier maritime training school – the Atlantic Alliance Maritime and Offshore Training Institute (AAMOTI) – to provide scholarships to locals from all 10 administrative regions.

Fifteen of the scholarships will be awarded to residents of Linden, Region 10, while the remaining 10 will be offered to residents from the other nine regions.

Upon successful completion, the students will receive certification in Basic

Safety Training (BST) and Ship Security Awareness (SSA).

The move is intended to improve and strengthen capacity-building and development in Guyana’s rapidly expanding maritime and offshore industry.

ACMF was launched in 2016 with the goal of producing a cadre of seafarers and maritime professionals from CARICOM to take up officer, engineering, navigational and other positions in the sector.

To date, the foundation has expended more than US$1 million in scholarships, grants, and equipment to 160 students from Guyana, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and The Dominican Republic.

The foundation is supported by an ‘A’ list of cruise

and cargo companies, including Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, MNS Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Seaboard, Tropical Shipping, Crowley, Shell, Crowley, among others.

ACMF President, Dr. Geneive Brown-Metzger, said, “ACMF was inspired by President Ali’s remarks at the ACMF 2022 Anchor Awards gala in Florida, when he stressed the critical importance of maritime training and education of locals to the oil/gas sector.”

She continued, “We are committed to partnering with stakeholders to provide opportunity to as many Guyanese as we can.”

Meanwhile, AAMOTI’s Director, Ms Miranda Thakur-Deen said that the institute was delighted to partner with ACMF on this initiative, since it signals the foundation’s commitment

to capacity-building for locals and its interest in the development of Guyana’s maritime sector.

Just recently, AAMOTI provided more than 20 scholarships to attendees of its information sessions earlier this year in Regions Two, Six and 10. The school is also partnering with the Office of the First Lady to provide 100 scholarships to women from indigenous villages across the country.

In November of last year, President Dr. Irfaan Ali attended ACMF Anchor Awards Gala at Fort Lauderdale Yacht Club in Florida as the guest of honour, and outlined his government’s ambitious plans for Guyana’s maritime sector. At that event, he met with Dr. Metzger and the two had fruitful discussions.

Canada-funded project strengthens justice for women, girls in Guyana

THE Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) efforts to combat Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV), received support from the Government of Canada on

Wednesday through the donation of computers and printers for SGBV units in Regions One and Four.

The Justice Education Society of British Co -

lumbia (JES) partnered with the Canadian High Commission in Guyana to present the GPF with eight computers and six printers as part of their efforts to address SGBV through the “Strengthening Justice for Women, Girls, and Indigenous Peoples in Guyana” project.

High Commissioner, Mark Berman handed over the equipment to the Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, during a simple ceremony at the Ministry of Home Affairs, in the presence of the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas; Deputy Commissioner – Administration, Calvin Brutus, and other officials from the Canadian High Commission and representatives of JES.

The JES is a four-year project that aims to deliver greater equality in access to justice for women and girls who have experienced SGBV, including those who live in remote communities in Region One (Barima-Waini).

JES currently has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Home Affairs

and the GPF, which signals the continuation of a close partnership with the GPF.

Valued at GUY$3.1M, the computers and printers will be placed in police stations at Baramita, Santa Rosa and in SGBV units in Region Four and will assist the GPF in their efforts to provide high quality services to SGBV survivors/victims.

The JES is a Canadian $2 million-dollar project, conceptualised in consultation with key Guyanese stakeholders including beneficiaries, and will continue to employ a consultative strategy through the engage-

ment and involvement of civil society partners, key government ministries, as well as agencies and other organisations serving the target populations. JES has also been working in partnership with the Judiciary and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to bolster systems that provide trauma-informed and gender-sensitive services to SGBV survivors.

Recently, JES completed a Gender and Cultural Sensitivity Training of Trainers workshop that hosted participants from the GPF, the Office of the DPP, the Judiciary, the Ministry of Human Ser-

vices and Social Security, civil society organisations, the University of Guyana, the Women and Gender Equality Commission, the Indigenous Peoples’ Commission, and the Guyana Trade Union Congress. By improving access to strengthened justice for women and girls, JES will empower women and girls to exercise their rights and support a more inclusive, gender-responsive, and culturally-aware society. Global Affairs Canada is funding the project through its Caribbean Regional Development programme.

Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn (centre) flanked by Permanent Secretary Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas and Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Mark Berman during the handing over of the equipment

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and ACMF President, Dr. Geneive Brown-Metzger at the Anchor Awards Gala in Florida last year

APNU rejected twice in 24 hours

–– CJ throws out party’s challenge to stop LGEs

IN less than 24 hours, Chief Justice (CJ) Roxane George has dismissed two court challenges filed by the People ’ s National Congress Reform ( PNC / R )/ A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) aimed at blocking the upcoming Local Government Elections.

The first challenge pertained to the voters ’ list , while the second contested the demarcation of boundaries Chief Justice George had dismissed both applications stating that they lacked merit and evidence

On Wednesday at the Demerara High Court , the Chief Justice dismissed the application filed by the opposition’s chief scrutineer Carol Smith - Joseph against the Commission and its Chairperson , Justice ( rtd ) Claudette Singh

The applicant had contended that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) acted unlawfully when it changed the boundaries of 37 constituencies in 19 Local Authority Areas

As such , the party had asked the High Court to order the postponement or cancellation of LGE contending that GECOM had violated Guyana’s constitution and the Local Government Act

However, in her ruling, the Chief Justice found the party ’ s application to be misleading since its orders sought were “vague.”

The applicant had argued that should the election be conducted in those circum-

stances , “ the prospects of success of the APNU will be severely prejudiced.”

However , on this point the Chief Justice said, “That is asking the court to engage in partisan politics and that cannot be countenanced there is no evidence to support this ground it amounted to an opinion.”

She clarified that GECOM’s role does not involve division or changes in boundaries but rather focuses on other aspects of the electoral process

The court ruled in favour of GECOM , as it was the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, who made the decision to revert to the 2016 district boundaries for the forthcoming elections

In fact , the judge said , “GECOM is not concerned with division into local authority areas, establishing or changing boundaries.”

On Tuesday , the Chief Justice ruled on another APNU’s challenge regarding the process used to compile the

List of Electors (or voters’ list) for the LGE

In her ruling, the Chief Justice determined that Carol Smith - Joseph ’ s application lacked merit as she failed to provide evidence to support her claims or the declarations she was seeking from the court

The Chief Justice criticised Smith - Joseph ’ s affidavit and supplementary submissions for being of poor quality and lacking evidence of their source or how they supported her claim that the

list was flawed

According to the CJ, the documents were “extremely poor and poorly reproduced

“The applicant must have known that what she was producing to the court is unreliable evidence There is no credible evidence before this court of ineligible persons being listed in the RoV [Register of Voters],” she said

The Chief Justice found that GECOM acted lawfully in compiling the List of Voters and that it has a constitutional duty to ensure that the registration of electors is conducted in accordance with the law

“

In my view that has turned out to be the most unmeritorious application that has taken up a lot of judicial time The only positive thing that can be gained from this case is that it allows the court to urge that Parliament must endeavour to harmonize elections laws and to resist piecemeal amendments that hang over many pieces of legislation,” she said while dismissing the application

Smith - Joseph has been ordered to pay GECOM costs amounting to $250,000 before, or on June 30, 2023

Minister Dharamlall wrote the Chairperson of GECOM , Justice ( Ret ’ d ) Claudette Singh appointing June 12, 2023, as the date for conduct of the elections

GECOM has already approved the work plan, which paved the way for the secretariat to proceed with the implementation of the relevant statutory and administrative activities for the elections in the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs) countrywide

The LGEs were legally due in 2021 and the funds were budgeted to facilitate this However, several issues facing GECOM at the time prevented the holding of the elections, including the non-appointment of a Chief Election Officer (CEO).

APNU is contesting in only 45 per cent of the 610 constituencies and 24 LAAs, while the PPP/C is contesting in all 610 constituencies in the 80 LAAs.

G-Boats Guyana launches two new tugboats to aid ExxonMobil’s FPSO operation

St. Ignatius and Brickdam Secondary students win naming competition for tugboats

By Cassandra Khan

G-BOATS, a local subsidiary of Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO), an American company specialising in supplying vessels to global Oil & Gas operators , launched two new tugboats on Wednesday at the Kingston port wharf

The vessels , A ’ RINRA and MADAME KALINA , were specifically made by ECO for Guyana

They will be used to aid ExxonMobil Guyana’s Floating Production Storage and Offloading ( FPSO ) ships into tankers that will export the oil

This is according to Ross Chouest of G-Boats, who noted that the two tugboats took three years to build

The names A ’ rinra and Madame Kalina were submitted by a Grade 11 student

bra, and a Grade 11

The name A ’ rinra is a Macushi word for an electric eel It is believed that the eel can withstand any storm or weather to get to its destination while the second name Madam Kalina was derived from the Carib tribe The name was chosen to name one of the tugboats as it brings awareness to the tribe’s existence and contributions to the nation

The winning schools were rewarded with a donation of US$1,000 The prizes were handed over at the Brickdam Secondary School on June 28, 2022, and at the St. Ignatius Secondary School on June 29, 2022

Ross Chouest of G-Boats Guyana said that the ceremony celebrates the remarkable achievement of two exceptional individuals who have made their schools and communities proud

He said that Raymond and Kaylan used their ability to think beyond the ordinary and envisaged names that embody the essence of Guyana He said that it was through their imaginative minds and creative spirits that the perfect names will forever grace the vessels

He said, “A ship’s name reflects its character, purpose, and values it represents.”

Meanwhile , Alistair Routledge , the President of Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited ( EEPGL ), emphasised that these vessels serve as a representation of the strong partnership and growing bond between the companies and the countries involved

He recognised that the oil and gas business requires

Chief Justice Roxane George

Carol Smith-Joseph

of St Ignatius Secondary School, Raymond De Cam-

student

of the Brickdam Secondary School, Kaylan Duncan, respectively, who entered into

a competition to name the boats that was launched in March 2022

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand with students of the Brickdam Secondary School including Kaylan Duncan and Raymond De Cambra of the St. Ignatius Secondary School in front of the Madam Kalina which was named by Kaylan

Ronald Burch-Smith returns as Bar Association President

ATTORNEY at Law, Ronald Burch-Smith, was elected, unopposed, as President of the Bar Association of Guyana during the 44th Annual General Meeting of the Bar Association held, on Wednesday, via Zoom Online Platform.

As part of the proceedings, the Bar Council for the

2023-2024 fiscal year was elected.

Mr. Burch-Smith previously served as President of the association from 20132015.

Ms. Pauline Chase who, by the rules of the association was ineligible for re-election, having served two consecutive terms, was elected unop-

posed as Vice-President. Mr. Teni Housty was re-elected as the second Vice-President.

Ms. Ashely King who served during the last term as Assistant Secretary was elected, also unopposed, to the post of Secretary.

Ms. Trevona Weekes was elected as the new Assistant Secretary and Ms. Yashmini Singh was returned as Trea-

surer of the association. The other elected members of the Bar Council are Mr. Robin Stoby, SC, Ms. Jamela A. Ali, SC, Mr. Keoma D. Griffith, Mr. Kamal Ramkarran, Mr. Naresh Poonai and Mr. Horatio Edmonson.

Ms. Sandia Ramnarine served as the Returning Officer.

Attorney at Law, Ronald Burch-Smith

G-Boats Guyana launches two new tugboats to aid ...

trusted relationships.

“We rely on one another; there is no company or one entity that does everything

We are a series of companies joined together,” Routledge said.

He related that the investment and expertise taken to build the vessels and dedicate them to Guyana by ECO is appreciated

“They (the tugboats) are going to go and operate 100 miles offshore Guyana that is where our tanking loading operations take place ,” he stated

During Routledge’s address to the secondary school students present at the launch event, he said that he hopes the experience of boarding the vessels and meeting the crew, including a Guyanese first mate, would leave them inspired and wanting to become a part of Guyana’s oil and gas industry

“I hope that inspires you to be a part of this industry which is going to be here in Guyana for decades to come

You can have a full career in your lifetime in the oil and gas industry in Guyana It

is still at the beginning of a multi-decade journey for the country,” he related Minister of Education , Priya Manickcand , related that she was pleased to have schools involved in the naming process of the vessels

“… because you involved schools and you did it through the Ministry, that means all schools were involved and that our children, were able to, as representatives of Guyana, to leave a mark on the vessels that will do much more than we can probably predict here, so I

thank you for involving Guyana’s schools,” she noted Furthermore , Minister Manickchand emphasised the ongoing efforts to implement universal secondary education in Guyana, recognising it as a monumental undertaking

She stressed the importance of ensuring that every child in the country has eq-

uitable access to high-quality secondary education and noted the government’s dedication to achieving this goal

She said they are actively working towards providing every student with the opportunity to receive a high-quality education at the secondary level

“It does not exist right now because our geog -

raphy poses a challenge where you have a village with only 40 children across levels It is difficult to provide secondary education of a high international quality for that village,” she explained

She also highlighted that Guyana has achieved universal primary education

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand with Raymond De Cambra of the St Ignatius Secondary School De Cambra is accompanied by his head teacher (right) and relatives

An agenda for all

SINCE assuming office in 2020, the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration in Guyana has demonstrated a strong commitment to implementing policies that prioritise the development of all Guyanese, with a particular focus on addressing challenges faced by the Afro-Guyanese community.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, in a powerful address to the Permanent Forum of People of African Descent, showcased the government's dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable society in Guyana.

Under the PPP/C admin-

istration, there has been a concerted effort to address the historical socio-economic challenges faced by the Afro-Guyanese community.

Recognising the importance of economic empowerment, the government has launched several initiatives aimed at providing equal opportunities for all Guyanese, particularly those from vulnerable communities.

Minister Walrond's address emphasised the government's commitment to developing targeted programmes that uplift Afro-Guyanese businesses and entrepreneurs.

By providing access to financing, training, and

mentorship, these initiatives aim to create an enabling environment for economic growth and entrepreneurship within the community. Such measures are crucial in ensuring that the benefits of Guyana's burgeoning industries, including oil and gas, are shared by all citizens.

Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting social mobility. Recognising this, the PPP/C administration has prioritised investments in education and skills development to ensure that all Guyanese, regardless of their background, have equal access to quality education.

Minister Walrond high-

Racial Politics

Dear Editor, AUBREY Norton’s and like-minded opposition individuals’ racial rants are a disservice to Guyanese of every ethnicity.

Quick to deny their promotion of racial politics, they seldom refrain from propagandising Guyanese into thinking and believing that the PPP/C is an Indo-Guyanese party. This they do so pretentiously, ignoring the historical and current compositions of the PPP as a truly multi-ethnic party.

Even after Burnham’s departure from the PPP, individuals such as Brindley Ben, C.V. Nunes, Jessie Burnham (Forbes’s sister) Fenton Ramsahoye, Rudy Luck, Martin Carter, Francis DeSouza -- to name a few -- constituted ranked members of the party.

Today, the multi-ethnicities of prominent PPP/C representatives are quite evident, well known, and regularly visible. Knowing this factual

multi-ethnic composition, why then do Norton and others pretend to be anti-racists when they aggressively and unabashedly proclaim the PPP/C to be the Indo party? Is there a motive?

In labelling the PPP/C as the Indo party, Norton and his associates are thereby inculcating indifference, hate and hostility for Indo-Guyanese in the minds of Afro-Guyanese. Such vintage display of political opportunism serves as the catalyst for mobilising and solidifying Afro-Guyanese militancy against the PPP/C, and hence the Indo-Guyanese.

It is a classic demonstration of fostering racism and racial strife by accusing the other of such activity. As the German sociologist Georg Simmel explained, the perceived threat from an outside source serves to unify and mobilise a splintered group in combating the “so called” threat.

If then, Afro-Guyanese perceive Indo-Guyanese as a threat,

lighted the government's commitment to improving the education system in her address.

This includes increasing access to schools, improving the quality of education, and bridging the digital divide to ensure equitable opportunities for all Guyanese students.

By investing in education and skills training, the government aims to equip Afro-Guyanese and, by extension, every Guyanese with the tools they need to succeed in the modern economy.

Guyana is blessed with a rich cultural heritage and abundant natural beauty. The government's commitment to

promoting Afro-Guyanese cultural heritage and history is particularly commendable.

By showcasing the contributions and achievements of Afro-Guyanese individuals, the government seeks to instill a sense of pride and identity within the community. This not only helps preserve cultural traditions, but also creates opportunities for cultural tourism, allowing visitors to experience the rich tapestry of Guyanese society.

Minister Walrond's address to the Permanent Forum of People of African Descent underscored the government's dedication to addressing historical disparities and ensuring that

Afro-Guyanese have equal access to opportunities.

By investing in education, skills development, and tourism, the government is paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity for all Guyanese.

As we move forward, it is essential that the PPP/C administration remains committed to its promises and continues to implement policies that prioritise inclusive development. By doing so, Guyana can become a shining example of a nation where all persons have an opportunity to grow and advance significantly.

they most likely would mobilise and solidify support to resist that threat, even if it means resorting to violence -- as already evidenced by disturbances in various parts of the country.

Instead of being victimised by opportunistic politicians seeking to elevate themselves through the advocation of racial indifference and strife, Afro and Indo Guyanese need to recognise, and acknowledge their commonalities and interdependence rather than focusing on, and emphasising, their ethnic differences.

They should be reminded what Dr Walter Rodney eloquently stated in his book, A History of the Guyanese Working People, that the British colonisers utilised and capitalised on ethnic differences to make Africans and Indians suspicious of each other and kept them divided.

This treacherous act by colonisers served to discourage Africans and Indians from forming

alliances detrimental to colonial control and domination.

Following from the above, Guyanese should also be constantly reminded of opposition politicians and quasi-politicians who embraced the divisive system created by colonials to keep Afro and Indo Guyanese disunited, suspicious and antagonistic toward each other. As the cultural historian Russel Jacoby cautions: “Social amnesia is society’s repression of remembrance-society’s own past.”

Hence, failing to remember the history of ethnic divisiveness, and how opposition politicians regularly reconstruct and reshape cultural differences to promote hate and disrupt Guyana’s stability is insulting, and is tantamount to living with social amnesia.

To avoid the syndrome of social amnesia, Guyanese need to be awake and alert to the historical and current opposition propagandistic activities to create instability and derail efforts of unity which benefits all.

In opposition to the divisive political forces, the PPP/C government needs to de-emphasize Afro-Indo ethnic differences in its articulation and implementa-

tion of its One Guyana policies, if it is to be successful.

It also needs to stress the commonalities between Afro and Indo Guyanese in its promotion and formation of a true Guyanese unity. For example, unlike the Amerindians, the majority of Afro and Indo Guyanese live side by side in ethnically mixed, and ethnically exclusive villages, along Guyana’s rural coastline.

By their residential location, they all have access to the same government services, agencies, facilities, and resources which bring them into daily contact with each other. Most of their children attend elementary schools taught by ethnically mixed staff, while some attend secondary schools with mixed student populations.

They seek medical care and healthcare from the same Afro, and Indo doctors, or practitioners. In their daily lives, adults interact with each other through trade as buyers and sellers, which enables them to establish cordial and trusting relationships.

As producers and consumers of such commodities as rice, other farm products, and engagement in animal husbandry, they

exist in a state of interdependence, socio-economic reciprocity, and cooperation, all of which help in the strengthening of communal and national bonds.

Through these intersecting and intertwining daily contacts, social relationships can be solidified that help in resisting the inculcation of hate and indifference, behaviours known to impede the development of a national unity, a national identity.

To this end, the PPP/C can capitalise on the community outreach efforts by its multiethnic governmental representatives to provide services that reassure residents of the government’s commitment to improve the lives of all Guyanese.

This can be undertaken while continuously exposing Norton and associates’ internalization and utilization of the British colonizers policy of indoctrination and discrimination to preserve ethnic divisiveness that hinders unity in the progressive formation of One Guyana – One people, One Nation, One Destiny.

Yours sincerely,

Narayan Persaud, PhD Professor Emeritus

Stop the blame game and address the pertinent issues

Dear Editor, THE 15-year-old student who allegedly set fire to the female dorm at Mahdia Secondary School has been charged with 19 counts of murder and remanded to the Juvenile Holding Centre in Sophia, Georgetown.

Magistrate Sunil Scarce did not require her to plead to the indictable charges. He adjourned the matter to July 5 for statement and disclosure.

The fire claimed the lives of 19 girls and one boy who tragically died in the inferno, which started after 23:00hrs on Sunday, May 21. Additionally, 28 girls were also injured in the conflagration.

Subsequent to the tragedy, the PNC/coalition went into full campaign mode, distressing the survivors and causing even more agony to the devastated relatives of the dead children by opportunistically making their grief campaign material.

The entire opposition cabal and their satellites are gleefully using this tragedy to call for the resignation of key government personnel.

Many sympathizing judases are now claiming to be heroes who saved the survivors, but who have been proven to be liars who don’t want to be recognized as

the cowards they are; whereas the real heroes are ignored.

Now for the lamenting, government-blaming, and bashing coalition opposition cabal and their perennial sanctimonious hypocrisy; let us reflect.

A Guyana Times article, dated August 20, 2016 and headlined “The Drop-In Centre fire” related that “The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report into the fire at the Hadfield Street Drop-in Centre last month, which claimed the lives of two children, was handed in earlier this week. The report concluded that the incident was a tragedy waiting to happen. For many this came as no surprise, as for quite some time now, several stakeholders have been raising various concerns about the facility regarding its safety and the level of care it provides for children placed there.

“Previously, sections of the media have sought to highlight the many problems plaguing the facility but to no avail. In fact, the authorities had always sought to downplay the reports and present the picture that all was well at the facility. In any modern society, there would have been very strong actions recommended against those who were found to be lacking in their response to

the tragedy.

“It is quite clear that at all levels, including even at the levels of the Minister of Social Protection and the Director of the Childcare Protection Agency (CPA), very little concern was shown towards ensuring those placed in the State’s care were given the kind of protection they deserve.

“Minister Volda Lawrence has been in that position for well over a year now and at least should have put certain policy mechanisms in place aimed at ensuring what obtained previously changed for the better. It is quite unfortunate that it had to take another fire and the loss of the lives of two children to cause the authorities to wake up from their slumber.

“It should be noted that there was a similar fire a few years

back at the facility and even though no one died, many of the children were left traumatised. One is therefore left to wonder what changes were made, if any, since then, to ensure that our children are well protected from such tragedies.

“The findings of the recent inquiry conducted by Retired Colonel Windee Algernon found that the children/staffer ratio was not adhered to and that on the morning of the fire, there were not enough staff on duty to meet the needs of children. Additionally, the house service supervisor, while she had the authority to call out more staff, failed to do so.

“The CoI also found that there were written guidelines for the management of crisis situations, including fires; however, the house manager and other

senior staff seemed unfamiliar with them. And so when the fire occurred, there was confusion and panic, resulting in the tragedy.

“Of note too is that the inquiry found that the fire was caused by a defective electrical outlet fitted with exposed wires on the eastern wall of the girls’ dormitory. This, the report said, played a role in the ignition of the fire by subsequent heat transfer. It should be mentioned that the authorities had also concluded that the 2010 fire at the facility was also as a result of an electrical problem.

“The fire department at the time had made some recommendations that would have minimised the possibility of a similar situation occurring. It is still not known what sort of corrective work was done to fix the electrical problems which seem to

be plaguing the facility since that time. How did such a situation occur a second time?

“In the meantime, we are still waiting to see what sort of action will be taken against those who are found to be responsible.”

Today, the same people responsible for the deaths of these children, because in that instance there was no arsonist, but the negligence of state officials, are pointing fingers of blame at the President and caring, hard-working State officials, who are working almost around the clock, trying to improve the lives and lifestyles, in a non-partisan way, of all the citizens of the land; and the welfare and circumstances of the nation’s children.

Yours Sincerely, Alvin Hamilton

The usual suspects themselves need psychiatric treatment

ANYONE who is a movie fan has his/her favourite scenes. I was pretty young in the 1960s when I saw the James Bond thriller, “From Russia with Love.” On a train, the Specter agent captures Bond, and says he has a foolproof story of Bond’s death after he kills him.

A letter would be released to the public in which a jealous Bond kills a Russian spy that he fell in love with, then, commits suicide. A subdued Bond with unlimited contempt in his eyes said these words to the Specter agent: “Tell me, which lunatic asylum, they got you out of?” The agent became livid.

I like that question and I have always used it since that time because it best describes the school of lunatics that politics have produced in this country, and it is the fitting description of the usual suspects (TUS) since the five months of elections were over and TUS rejected the return of the PPP in power.

TUS have resorted to a newspaper letter every month with ‘nuff’ signatures from

the incestuous circle ridiculing, chastising, condemning and hating the ruling party. I need to point out to readers that TUS is part of MCC (Mulatto Creole Class) that I am currently doing a series on as part of my daily columns.

If you think you have seen the pathological hatred TUS has for the government, then the latest outburst is beyond imagination. TUS wants the teenager accused by the police of killing 19 students plus a little boy to be charged with arson and not the capital offence.

Murder is a heinous crime especially when it is mass murder. It carries life imprisonment or the death penalty. Can any sane person in this world explain this diseased asininity of someone charged for setting a fire that killed 20 youthful kids, but the charge for that offence must be arson not mass murder? An allegedly bad-behaved student is alleged to have become angry on being disciplined and set a fire. How did TUS arrive at arson prosecution and not the capital offence? Because a

lawyer TUS know told them that. There are two questions here – one to the lawyer; the other to TUS.

What was the lawyer thinking when he/she told TUS that? And what was TUS thinking when they published that sickening advice? We have the largest number of lawyers in the Caribbean, per capita, that is. This was brought out in a study done by the University of the West Indies.

The nation awaits the analyses of these lawyers on the issue of if a person should be charged with arson or murder when that person is accused by the police of setting fire to a building that led to the burning death of 20 lives.

No one should waste their time going to Google to search for 14 year old children and 15 year old teenagers who have robbed and killed people and have been put on trial for murder. If you do the Google search, you will see the United States lead other countries by billions of miles. Teenagers in the same

age group of the Mahdia accused have killed their parents

Now here is the interesting part of the asininity and mental ugliness of TUS. They are urging psychiatric assessment for the alleged killer. But how did they arrive at that judgement without either a report from the police or physical interview of the accused by TUS themselves?

In most countries, particularly India, Pakistan and the United States, if a group of prominent citizens had done what TUS have asserted, they would have opened up themselves to harm. They would have been protesting

outside their homes and offices by the relatives of the victims and members of the general public. There would have been threats originating from social media.

The curious question is what will be the reaction of the relatives of the victims? Speaking for myself, if there is a picket/protest against the unjustified mouthing off of TUS, then I will join it. If it is being arranged, then please contact me at 6145927 and my email is fredkissoon@yahoo.com.

I have known some members of TUS and this I can testify to – some of them

need psychiatric evaluation themselves. The laws of libel prevent me from describing and analysing what I know of this unacceptable cabal. I mean it literally when I say some do need psychological help.

The attitude of TUS from March 2020 to the present time is driven, fuelled and fed by implacable hatred for the PPP. But really man! To use the Mahdia tragedy is descent into insanity. I would like to hear how Charrandass feels about TUS take on Mahdia.

Adequate Housing Programme delivers core homes to 13 Sophia residents

THIRTEEN residents of Sophia on Wednesday benefitted from the Ministry of Housing and Water, Central Housing and Planning Authority, Core Homes in ‘D’ Field, Sophia.

The ministry, through the Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP), handed over core homes to the residents in what can be described as an informal-formal ceremony.

The AHAUP programme aims to improve the quality of life of Guyanese in urban and peri-urban Georgetown. This will be done through the provision of better access to adequate housing and basic infrastructure for low-income populations, as well as through improved accessibility and mobility services.

This programme was started in December 2017, and will conclude in June 2024. There have been 80

beneficiaries, all selected from Sophia. Of that, 35 core homes have been built so far, with 21 core homes handed over to beneficiaries, 14 of these homes are already occupied, while another 14 are currently under construction, and 31 of the core homes are at the procurement stage.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Susan Rodrigues, said that materials are given to beneficiaries for the construction of their

homes. The minister said that the programme is an important one that will help those who need it. She stated that some of these beneficiaries were able to aid in the construction of their homes, which in the end helped the process along.

Additionally, she said that doing so is an important part of the construction phase, because it gives a sense of ownership of their homes at the end of it.

The core homes constructed are two-bedroom, concrete structures, completed with electrical wiring, plumbing, painted interiors and exteriors,

kitchen and a toilet and bath. The beneficiaries, in addition to receiving the keys to their homes also collected a termite and

treatment plan valid for five years, and a certificate of inspection, or electrical certificate, which is valid for the next 10 years.

Minister Susan Rodrigues, with the 13 core homes owners and other officials in Sophia (Adrian Narine photo)

Minister, Within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and Core Home owner Samantha Lillie, in front of her new home (Adrian Narine photo)

One of the core homes from the AHUA Programme(Adrian Narine photo)

Exxon’s Liability Insurance: Appeal Court to decide merit of EPA’s appeal next week

COME next week, the Court of Appeal is expected to hand down its ruling on the merits of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) appeal to overturn Justice Sandil Kissoon’s decision that the agency and oil giant ExxonMobil breached obligations relating to its oil spill insurance policy.

During a hearing on Wednesday before Justice of the Appeal, Rishi Persaud, Sanjeev Datadin, the lawyer representing the EPA, said that Justice Kissoon misdirected himself.

“This is a simple issue of interpretation. The existence of insurance has never prevented something from happening. Insurance is to compensate when the event occurs. The insurance will only be applicable whenever the ill befall. All that the guarantee will try to do is make it right after the fact,” he said.

He further argued that Justice Kissoon made a mistake by considering "extraneous matters" in his decision, specifically referring to the "unlimited guarantee" requirement.

Datadin submitted that the permit only mentions a "fixed

sum" and not an unlimited guarantee, and that considering the guarantee as a protector of potential events is incorrect.

Datadin further argued that the respondents' reliance on the contract imbalance between Exxon and the government is irrelevant to the current matter.

He pointed out that if someone is unhappy with the contract, there are other actions that can be taken, and it does not affect the issue at hand.

According to Datadin, the lower court made an error by implying an unlimited guarantee that does not exist in the permit

or the Environmental Protection Act.

He claimed that the court invented the concept of an unlimited guarantee and used it as a weapon against the defendants.

According to Datadin, Justice Kissoon overstepped the functions of the EPA; bypassing other available options by issuing a coercive order.

Esso's Senior Counsel, Edward Luckhoo, stated that Condition 14 of the Environmental Permit does not require an unlimited guarantee.

He maintained that Justice Kissoon misinterpreted the clear

Ten vulnerable families to receive elevated timber houses in Smith Creek

THE construction of houses under the Hinterland Housing Programme in Smith Creek, Region One, is set to commence, as empoldering of the identified lands is completed and materials are on the ground

The community consulted and selected ten of the most vulnerable families to benefit from the 20×25 ft

campaign trail.

Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley, and Parliamentary Secretary, Sarah Brown, also addressed residents at the meeting.

The initiative is being executed through the Ministry of Housing and Water – Central Housing and Planning Authority. The Minister said it will promote healthier

from the sub-district.

Minister Croal also committed to the development of a new well to serve the community in the 2024 budgetary allocations.

The Regional Chairman, in his remarks, stated that the government has continuously fulfilled its commitments to provide a better life for the residents of Region One in housing, education and other sectors.

One of the ecstatic beneficiaries, Mr. Grey Hosea voiced, “I am so happy that the government is providing this home for me and my family because right now I’m living in a house but not so comfortable”.

Father of six, Mr. Leon Williams also remarked that the home will provide safer shelter for his family. With the materials on ground, he also expressed his excitement to commence construction.

language of the condition and that it only provides for an estimate of a finite sum based on a formula outlined in the permit.

Luckhoo rejected the characterisation of the absence of an unlimited guarantee as "self-serving" and emphasised that the interpretation of Condition 14 is solely a matter of law.

He argued that no evidence was presented to support Justice Kissoon's conclusion that Esso is an asset-less subsidiary of ExxonMobil.

Luckhoo also pointed out that the 2017 permit did not include a requirement for financial assurance, and it was only introduced when the permit was renewed in 2022.

Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam, representing Whyte and Collins, disagreed with Luckhoo and expressed doubts about the EPA's grounds of appeal succeeding.

Jairam argued that an unlimited parent company guarantee is necessary due to the potential catastrophic effects of an oil spill on the environment.

He contended that Esso has been operating without financial guarantee in the open sea and

that insurance coverage is not sufficient to cover all damages.

Jairam emphasised the need for a parent company guarantee, which does not cost Exxon anything but shows its financial capacity to restore and rehabilitate the environment in the event of an oil spill.

“Esso has been carrying out oil operations in the open high sea without financial guarantee. An oil spill could send back Guyana to the ice age if there is no insurance because it is not easy to contain,” he said.

Justice Persaud will rule in the week on the merit of the appeal, as well as Datadin’s application for a stay on the May 3 order that directed the EPA to issue an Enforcement Notice to ExxonMobil’s local affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production (Guyana) Limited (EEPGL), by May 9.

The order required EEPGL to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee agreement and/or unlimited liability Affiliate Company Guarantee, along with environmental liability insurance, within 30 days, as is customary in the international petroleum industry.

Justice Persaud had previously refused Datadin’s application to suspend the judgment until the appeal hearing, indicating his intention to evaluate the reasonable prospects of success and deliver his ruling before June 10, the deadline for complying with Justice Kissoon’s initial ruling.

On May 3, Justice Kissoon found that the oil giant “engaged in a disingenuous attempt” to dilute its obligations under its environmental permit for its Liza One project, by not fully meeting insurance requirements relating to environmental protections.

Datadin had moved to the Appellate court, seeking a stay of the ruling, among other things.

In the application, the EPA argued that Justice Kissoon made an error in interpreting and applying two legal provisions related to an environmental permit issued to a company called Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd.

The first provision is Clause 14 of the Environmental Permit, which is a condition the company must comply with to operate in Guyana.

The second provision is Section 31(2) of the Environmental Protection Act, which sets out requirements for financial assurances that companies must provide in relation to environmental permits.

The appellant is contending that the trial court misinterpreted these provisions and wrongly concluded that the financial assurance required of Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd. was unlimited.

elevated timber homes.

The Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, in a meeting with residents on Wednesday, stated that the programme was in keeping with a promise of His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, while on the 2020

and more sustainable living conditions in the area.

More than $20 million in contracts were previously inked for the supply of labour and materials for the construction of the houses. The labour and timber for the houses will be sourced

Following the meeting, the Minister and team also visited the site where a number of the houses are to be constructed.

The Hinterland Housing Programme will also see the construction of houses in Regions Seven, Eight and Nine.

Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin

Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam

Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo

Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud

Some of the houses currently at Smith Creek

Brasilia Consensus: South American Presidents commit to boost trade and Investment, strengthen regional value chains

AT the invitation of the President of Brazil, the Heads of State of South American countries met in Brasilia, on May 30, 2023, to exchange views and perspectives on cooperation and the integration of South America.

1. The Presidents reaffirmed the common vision of South America as a region of peace and cooperation, based on dialogue and on the respect for the diversity of our peoples, committed to democracy and human rights, sustainable development and social justice, the upholding of sovereignty and non-interference.

2. Concurred that the world is facing multiple crises, in a context of climate crisis, threats to peace and international security, pressure on food and energy chains, the risk of new pandemics, increase in social inequalities and threats to institutional and democratic stability.

3. Agreed that regional integration should be part of the solution to the common challenges of building a peaceful world, strengthening democracy, promoting social and economic development, fighting poverty, hunger, and all forms of inequality and discrimination, promoting gender equality, managing migration in a safe, orderly and

regular manner, tackling climate change, including through innovative financing mechanisms for climate action, fostering ecological and energy transition through clean energy, strengthening health capacities and combatting transnational organized crime.

4. Committed to work towards increasing trade and investment among the countries of the region, improving infrastructure and logistics, strengthening regional value chains, effectively implementing trade facilitation and financial-integration measures, reducing asymmetries, eliminating unilateral measures and increasing market access through the network of economic- complementation agreements under LAIA, [with the aim of reaching a] [ALT: with the aim of perfecting the] South American Free Trade Area.

5. Recognized the contribution of the different South American integration mechanisms, including UNASUR, and reaffirmed the shared objective of having an inclusive, effective and permanent South American platform of dialogue and cooperation, which is capable of promoting and maintaining the South American integration process and projecting the voice of the region in a

multipolar world.

6. Decided to establish a [High-Level Group] [ALT: Contact Group], [comprising representatives of the Presidents] [ALT: led by the Foreign Ministers], to evaluate the experiences of South American integration mechanisms and draft a roadmap for the integration of South America, to be submitted for consideration of the Heads of State.

7. Agreed to promptly promote South American cooperation initiatives open to the participation of all interested parties, with a social and gender approach, in areas that concern the immediate needs of citizens, in particular the most vulnerable, including indigenous peoples, such as health, food security, food systems based on traditional agriculture, the environment, water resources, natural disasters, infrastructure and logistics, energy interconnection and clean energy, digital transformation, defence, border integration and security, and cybersecurity.

8. Agreed to meet again, on a date and place to be determined, in order to review the progress of the South American cooperation initiatives and determine the next steps. (Office of the President)

President Dr Irfaan Ali ( seated at left) at the meeting of the Presidents of South American Countries (Office of the President photo)

Private sector joins efforts to eliminate gender-based violence

PROMOTING gender equality and eliminating gender-based violence were the focal points during the recent launch of the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) under the EU-funded Spotlight Initiative in Guyana.

Ms Tonni Brodber, the Representative of the UN Women Multi-Country Office - Caribbean, emphasized the importance of addressing gender-based violence as part of a comprehensive approach to achieve development goals, health outcomes, and economic and social growth.

Highlighting the correlation between gender equality, lower levels of violence, and increased social cohesion, Ms. Brodber stressed that societies with greater gender equality experience fewer instances of violence.

Citing research conducted by UN Women in another Caribbean country, she pointed out that gender-based violence has significant economic costs, leading to output loss in the private sector due to its impact on employee health and performance.

The Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), established by UN Women and the UN Global Compact in 2010, provide guidance to businesses on promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in the workplace, marketplace, and community.

At the launch event, 17 private sector companies, who are signatories to the WEPs, announced their commitments to implementing the principles. These commitments include workplace policies supporting domestic violence victims/survivors and the introduction of paternity leave.

The participating companies encouraged more private sector entities in Guyana to endorse and take action on the WEPs.

The launch event also witnessed discussions on the recent tragedy in Mahdia, where 19 children, mostly Indigenous girls

- commits to Women’s Empowerment Principles to advance gender equality

measuring and publicly reporting progress towards gender equality.

The event was conducted as part of Pillar 3 of the ongoing Spotlight Initiative Project in Guyana, which aims to challenge gender-inequitable social norms, attitudes, and behaviours, and prevent violence against women and girls. The initiative aims to create an inclusive future for men, women, boys, and girls in Guyana.

aged 12 to 18, lost their lives in a fire. Attendees expressed concern and urged collective efforts to prevent and eliminate violence against women.

Ms. Evelina Melbarzde, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, Suriname, and with responsibility for other territories, commended the collaboration between the UN, the government, and various stakeholders in addressing violence against women. She emphasized the importance of preventive measures and creating a safe environment that empower women and fights gender-based violence.

Eight private sector companies in Guyana have already developed Gender Action Plans aligned with the WEPs and are implementing policies that promote gender equality. The launch event showcased two videos highlighting the actions taken by these companies.

By signing the WEPs, these companies have committed to implementing several key principles, including establishing high-level corporate leadership for gender equality, treating all employees fairly and promoting human rights and non-discrimination, ensuring the well-being of workers, promoting education and professional development for women, empowering women through enterprise development and supply-chain practices, driving equality through community initiatives and advocacy, and

Representative, UN Women Multi –Country Office – Caribbean, Tonni Brodber delivering remarks

Ms. Evelina Melbarzde, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union to Guyana (UN Women/ Trevor Smith photo)

Min. McCoy unveils development plans for Soesdyke-Linden Highway

PERSONS living along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway will soon see a massive transformation, as a major developmental plan is underway for the area.

This was revealed by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, at the launching of WiFiGY at Waiakabra on Monday.

“Already, we have been working at the highway development plan, which is a plan that will see greater and greater investment on the highway, in terms of infrastructure, through the government and the private sector,” the minister stated.

The public affairs minister explained that the planned transformation will boost

tourism in the area, and make the highway a place of ‘buzzing businesses’.

As such, residents will be exposed to a number of employment opportunities, and the minister encouraged them to be prepared to take up employment.

To add to this development, Minister McCoy said the government will soon be rolling out programmes along the highway for people who are interested in agriculture.

Skills training programmes will also be offered to women to develop existing skills or develop new ones.

“So, you have to start thinking big, you have to look to the future. You have to think of what you can do here to enable yourself to

generate wealth right here on the highway. And so, these programmes will contribute to that national pool of agriculture production for local consumption and for export,” the minister posited.

He also informed that, shortly, there will be an engagement with the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and the various departments in his ministry, where they will provide guidance on planting and livestock rearing.

Further, Minister McCoy encouraged the residents to take advantage of all the opportunities that are coming their way, so that they can contribute to the development of their villages and the country at large. (DPI)

Land Titles: Kwakwani residents begin process of acquiring during housing outreach

Authority (CHPA) and an occupational survey was conducted.

Those incorporated into the existing plan were able to process their ownership documents, while another exercise will be conducted to accommodate persons who fall outside of the plan.

“We have up to 200 persons who can sign to commence the process for their agreements of sale and the processing of the certificates of title that can be done totally from those three areas,” he said.

The Minister also spoke to the relocation of residents at the waterfront since it is prone to flooding. He stated that 25 acres of land had been identified for the relocation and resettlement programme.

The Chief Executive Officer of the CHPA, Sherwyn Greaves, was also present at the event. He reassured the residents that the agency was

committed to addressing all housing matters in Kwakwani promptly and efficiently.

Greaves further explained that once individuals receive their ownership documents, they will have the opportunity to apply for the Cement and Steel Subsidy. This subsidy will enable them to commence the construction of their homes, providing further sup -

port towards their housing needs.

Meanwhile, a number of residents who successfully completed the process were able to receive their certificates of title during the activity. Residents were also given the opportunity to raise a number of concerns at the meeting and they were addressed by the Minister and team.

THE acquisition of land titles by residents of Kwakwani in Region

Ten began on Tuesday when they signed up for their Agreements of Sale.

This initiative specifically benefitted individuals occupying lands in Kwakwani Housing Scheme (Phases One, Two, and Three), Park-Potville, and Chine Lane.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, who emphasised the sig-

nificance of the exercise, spearheaded the outreach, as it marked the beginning of regularising the area.

The outreach was conducted in Kwakwani, Region Ten

Minister Croal explained that residents have inhabited the housing area for several years, but no official ownership documents were issued. In an effort to resolve the issue, he said the area was transferred to the Central Housing and Planning

The minister affirmed that the initiative was in alignment with the national housing programme of the PPP/C government, which aims to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for all Guyanese.

“We want to bring betterment to the people… we want to have you living in homes that you can call yours…to have you living on a land that you can pass on to your children for generations to come,” he noted.

- urges Waiakabra residents ‘to start thinking big, look to the future’

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, engages Waiakabra residents (DPI photo)

Central Housing and Planning Authority staff assisting Kwakwani residents to sign up for their Agreements of Sale

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, hands over a Land Title to one of the Kwakwani residents

Fire Service receives $273M in assets to enhance capabilities

IN a significant boost to firefighting and rescue capabilities, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has received new assets, presented by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, in the presence of British High Commissioner Jane Miller and other dignitaries, on Wednesday.

The assets, including a hydraulic platform, an ambulance, and a minibus, were procured by the Government of Guyana at a total cost of $273.4 million.

The handover ceremony was attended by representatives from Angloco, namely Stephen Jubb, Richard Blyth, and Aidan Wright, as well as Permanent Secretary Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas.

Minister Benn emphasised the importance of equipping the Fire Department with new measures and equipment to effectively tackle challenges, especially in relation to high-rise buildings.

The GFS’s new assets included a minibus, an ambulance and a hydraulic platform

Highlighting the value of learning from other fire departments in the region and seeking maintenance support from companies like Angloco, Minister Benn stressed the need for proper maintenance and readiness of the new assets to ensure preparedness for any eventuality.

He also emphasised the significance of training, engagement, and vigilance in the GFS's efforts to raise fire safety aware-

ness and protect against fires.

Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham, expressed his gratitude for the newly acquired appliances, acknowledging their instrumental role in enhancing firefighting capabilities.

British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, present at the ceremony, expressed her delight at being part of the handover and expressed optimism about future collaborations between the United Kingdom and the

Guyana Fire Service.

Following the official handover, a team of GFS officers, along with representatives from Angloco, headed to the new Pegasus Hotel for a demonstration of the hydraulic platform.

Capable of reaching a height of 150 feet, the hydraulic platform will be utilised for firefighting and rescue operations in high-rise buildings, adding a crucial asset to the GFS's arsenal.

The acquisition of these new assets marks a significant step forward for the Guyana Fire Service in its mission to ensure the safety and protection of the country's citizens.

The commitment of the government, along with collaborations with international partners, highlights the dedication to enhancing emergency response capabilities and preparedness in Guyana.

Madhia Tragedy: Citizens share their perspectives

By Cindy Parkinson

IT'S been a little more than a week since the horrific fire destroyed the girls' dormitory in Madhia Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), claiming the lives of 19 schoolgirls and a five-year-old boy while injuring several others and leaving life-long scars on the victims' families and friends, the Madhia community, and the nation.

The outpouring of international and regional support from Heads of States and dignitaries flooded the country, but the

most "tragic" national tragedies that Guyana and its people have ever encountered.

Paul said, “I am not only a citizen who is feeling the pain, but I am also a father of three girls, and I cannot imagine what being in that situation is like. It seems as though it is a nightmare for us as a people; I cannot imagine it. As a father, this situation made me think about myself and the length of time that I spend with my children.”

He continued: “I know that most of us get very busy with work. I understand we are trying to put food on the table, but we also need to find the extra time and be there for our children. Talk with them, tell them what is right from wrong, listen to them, and tell them how much they are loved."

Paul also said that he is hopeful that this tragic event will bring some positives to all of “us.”

mouths.”

Another citizen, Kayomie Zammet, a credit clerk from the Citizen’s Bank on Camp Street, explained that she is distraught as all other Guyanese are about what happened at Madhia. Ms Zammet said “Like every Guyanese, I am shaken up; this has really made me look at life differently. Looking at these parents and families, I don’t know how they are doing it. I am not a parent, but I have my nieces and nephews, and I cannot deal with them getting hurt in any way, much less being in this situation. When it comes to my fellow Guyanese citizens, I

that[ sic]were injured, and we want you all to know that we have you in our thoughts and prayers.”

Finally, the Guyana Chronicle spoke with an aspiring environmentalist, Jennel Henry, who expressed similar sentiments as the others. An emotional Jennel said, “It is heartbreaking for me to think or even talk about this. Coming from the indigenous community of Capoey Lake in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and having an indigenous background, I know the sacrifices that parents make to send their kids to get a better education, with the hope that they will have a better future. It is sad to know that their lives were taken away while they were trying to build that future for themselves and their families. One of them could have later become a minister or even the president of Guyana, but now we will never know.”

that schools and buildings be “better equipped with additional fire extinguishers and whatever necessary safety tools are needed so that we would not have to be faced with any such tragedy again.”

Also offering his perspective was Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken. He said, "Like the President, we are all saddened by this situation, but the police are integrally involved in the partnership effort through the strategic pillar that deals specifically with youth groups, youth clubs, and scout groups. While it is impactful for the organisation of the Guyana Police Force, we as a force that is part of nation-building are mourning, but at the same time, we are bringing comfort to the people through our actions so that they can know that we are supporting them and their families in every way that we can. With all the speculations

would have happened."

Commissioner Hicken took the opportunity to send a personal message to the Guyanese people: “Prayers, comradery,[sic] comfort, and support for each other are more necessary than ever at this time.”

A 15-year-old school girl was recently remanded into the custody of the Juvenile Holding Centre for allegedly setting fire to the female dormitory at Mahdia Secondary School, which left 19 children dead.

The teen appeared via Zoom before Magistrate Sunil Scare at Diamond Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the capital offence.

It is alleged that during the course of arson committed on May 21, she murdered Tracil Thomas, Lisa Roberts, Delecia Edwards, Lorita Williams, Natalie Bellarmine, Arriana Edwards, Cleoma Simon, Subrina John, Martha Dandrade,

Guyanese people from all walks of life in the local and international diasporas came together and lent their support directly and indirectly to the Government of Guyana, the families, and each other.

People of all walks of life and age groups are still trying to come to terms with the tragedy of the catastrophic fire that broke out at the dormitory on May 21, 2023, while leaving many others severely burnt and mentally disoriented.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Paul Ignatius, a self-defence instructor and an A/C technician, explained the aforementioned day will forever be remembered as one of the

He added, “We as adults need to play a role in ensuring that our society gets back to being what it used to be, and that is ‘you are your brothers and sisters' keepers.’ We need to open our eyes and look out for each other and each other's children. I heard President Ali talking about being careful about what we post on social media, and I agree with him 100 percent. Some of us really need to be careful about what we are posting; we need to be respectful of these families and what they are facing; give them the time and privacy to grieve. It is not everything that you think of you have to post, you don’t know who your words are hurting, and we need to be mindful of that.”

He added: “I will also like to ask the public to let the police do their jobs before we spread rumours of what happened. We weren’t there, and we don’t know what happened, so we need to be more responsible about what comes out of our

know we are all feeling hurt by this, and we are all entitled to our own opinions, but like the President said, this is a sensitive issue, and we must think before we post our thoughts on social media. Let us remember these children and families in the most respectful and loving way possible. Looking at the funerals, I asked God why? But I know that we as a nation will get through this and I know that this has brought us even closer as a people.”

She continued: “On behalf of myself and the entire staff of Citizen’s Bank, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families and the community of Madhia in this time of grief. We would also like to wish a speedy recovery to the persons

Ms Henry underscored: “I am presently in Georgetown to get a better future, but looking at the photos of those girls and their age range, I thought of my sister. She is of the same age, and I wonder if it was her; it brings so much sadness to me just to think of it. As a young person, I am happy to see that President Ali is doing so much for families and his presence and the other government officials presence says a lot. The elections are coming up, and he could have been busy with that, but instead, he has made this his priority right now and that of his ministers as well. It says a lot about who they are as people.”

To the families of the victims, Henry said, “I want you, the community of Madhia and the other communities to know that all of Guyana is praying with and for you. You are not alone in this. Be strong and trust that you will see your loved ones again."

Finally, Ms Henry noted

and opinions that are out in the public about the cause of the fire, what should and shouldn’t have happened."

Commissioner Hicken said "whenever we are dealing with investigations in general, we do not speculate, nor do we use social media comments, that will only create an argument and a discussion outside of what

Loreen Evans, Belnisa Evans, Mary Dandrade, Omerfia Edwin, Nickleen Robinson, Sherena Daniels, Eulander Carter, Andrea Roberts, Bibi Jeffrey and Adanye Jerome.

The is being held at a Sophia juvenile facility, and the matter was adjourned until July 4, 2023.

Self-defence Instructor and A/C Technician Paul Ignatius and his three daughters

Citizen’s Bank Credit Clerk, Kayomie Zammet

Aspiring environmentalist, Jennel Henry

The new hydraulic platform is capable of reaching a height of 150 feet as seen in this demonstration at the new Pegasus Hotel

Guyana launched tobacco cessation clinics on ‘World No Tobacco Day’

IN observance of World No Tobacco Day, yesterday (Wednesday), Guyana joined the global community to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use while launching Tobacco Cessation Clinics throughout the country.

Under the theme “Grow Food, Not Tobacco,” the

Ministry of Health took proactive steps to address the high prevalence of tobacco-related deaths in the country.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, delivered a strong message emphasising the importance of combating tobacco use for the well-being of individuals

and the environment.

Guyana, classified as a developing nation, faces a significant burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) caused by tobacco consumption. According to the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), 78 per cent of all deaths in

Guyana are attributed to NCDs, with tobacco use playing a major role.

Additionally, the World Bank reported that the prevalence of tobacco use among adults in Guyana was 12.1 per cent in 2020. Alarmingly, over one million people worldwide die each year due to exposure to second-hand

smoke.

To address this pressing issue, the Ministry of Health will be launching Tobacco Cessation Clinics throughout the country.

The Minister of Health noted, in his message, that the first clinic will be established at the Industry Health Centre, followed by several other centres including Festival City Health Centre, North East La Penitence Health Centre, East La Penitence Health Centre, Grove Health Centre, Craig Health Centre, Buxton Health Centre, Enmore Health Centre, Den Amstel Health Centre, Kitty Health Centre, and David Rose Health Centre.

At these clinics, healthcare professionals will provide brief tobacco interventions using the 5 As method: Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, and Arrange.

By implementing this approach, Minister Anthony noted that patients will receive the necessary guidance and support to quit tobacco use. This aligns with the recommendations outlined in the “Best Practices for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Programmes” published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2014. It emphasises the importance of healthcare systems and other medical facilities actively participating in tobacco treatment by asking patients about their tobacco use, advising them to quit, and referring them to evidence-based cessation services.

On World No Tobacco Day, Minister of Health,

Dr. Frank Anthony, urged individuals to educate themselves about the dangers of tobacco and its by-products. He believes that through continuous public awareness and education, a tobacco-free generation can be created. He encourages everyone to become health champions and say no to smoking. By working together, Guyana aims to combat the tobacco epidemic and reduce the mortality rate associated with tobacco-related illnesses.

World No Tobacco Day

serves as a global reminder to prioritise public health, empower individuals to make informed choices, and promote a tobacco-free future. The efforts made by the Ministry of Health in launching Tobacco Cessation Clinics represent a significant step forward in protecting the well-being of the Guyanese population.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony

Decomposed bodies of woman, daughter found in Providence home

IN a tragic discovery, the badly decomposed bodies of a woman and her daughter were found on Wednesday in a house at Providence, East Bank Demerara. The victims have been identified as Petrous Ross, 38, and her 13-year-old daughter, Gabriella Ross.

The house is rented by the 58-year-old husband of the deceased Hemanchal Latchman, a mechanic of Tahal Street, Goed Fortune, West Bank Demerara. In the month of September 2022, the husband moved out of the house but continued to pay the rent and make visits.

The bodies were discovered by the mechanic and the landlord, who had indicated that the rental contract had expired.

Upon entering the premises, they made the horrifying discovery, prompting them to immediately contact the police.

According to initial reports, the Police found four bottles of substances near the bodies and investigators noticed that the belongings inside the house had been packed away for moving.

Residents informed the Police that they had last seen Petrous Ross and her daughter in January of

this year. One neighbour mentioned that the landlord arrived on Wednesday morning, expressing concern about his inability to contact the woman.

Seeking assistance, the landlord asked the neighbour to break open the door. However, the neighbour declined and instead contacted the child's father, who is currently separated from Petrous Ross.

Upon the father's arrival, the police were summoned to the scene. With the door forcibly opened, a strong and unpleasant odor emanated from inside the two-story house. Tragically, the lifeless bodies of Petrous Ross and Gabriella Ross were discovered.

Law enforcement authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The bodies will undergo autopsies to determine the cause and time of death, shedding light on the possible sequence of events leading up to this devastating incident.

As news of this heartbreaking discovery spread throughout the community, shock and grief have engulfed neighbours and loved ones.

Dead: Petrous Ross Dead: Gabriella Ross

Mocha Police Station, IT Training Complex 40%

THE Mocha Police Station, which is being constructed at a cost of over G$82M, is currently at 40 per cent completion, with the ground floor columns and walls completed. All staircases were casted, and the contractor is currently waiting to cast the firstfloor columns, beams, and slab.

This was revealed when Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ms. Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas, led a team Wednesday morning to the Mocha Police Station and the Guyana Police Force Information Technology Training Complex, where she inspected the progress of the works carried out.

The visit was part of an ongoing capital projects inspection to verify that contractors are moving apace with their work while also ensuring that the amount of work being done at the var-

ious sites allows for timely completion of the projects. Information technology is an integral part of the Guyana Police Force’s modernisation and strategic development.

During the inspection of the ongoing works at the Information Technology Training Complex, which is currently being constructed in the Grove Police Station Compound, Ms. Thomas was informed that the project is on schedule.

This project is being addressed at a cost of over G$100M and is one of four training facilities that are being constructed across Guyana.

At approximately 40 per cent completion, this centre will not only be open to the Police ranks but will also serve members of the public by providing basic ICT training and computer engineering courses.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mae Toussaint Jr Thomas, conducting project inspection on Wednesday

Health, wellness programme to be implemented in schools

- Health ministry to set up wellness dept by year end

IN order to encourage students to lead a healthy lifestyle from an early age, the government will soon launch a comprehensive health and wellness programme in schools. Students will also be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills for lifelong well-being.

Recognising the deep impact of health on overall development, the administration is taking proactive measures to ensure quality healthcare for every citizen.

This was disclosed by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, on Monday, during the opening ceremony of the Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI) health fair.

“And so, when we start, we want you to encourage your children to come and be part of the programme,” Minister Anthony noted.

Additionally, the government continues to implement various initiatives aimed at combatting non-communicable diseases and enhancing the lives of those who suffer from chronic illnesses.

Minister Anthony noted that hypertension, diabetes, and

kidney, heart, and lung diseases are preventable.

“We have to embrace a lifestyle of wellness. And very often we do not do that. The goal is not just to live longer but to live healthier. It’s not just the lifespan we want to expand, but we also want to do the expansion of their health, meaning that we will live healthier for a longer period,” he stated.

Persons can adopt healthy lifestyles by maintaining a balanced diet of nutrients, getting enough sleep, exercising, and coping with stress.

“We need to start thinking about what we eat and drink. Instead of drinking all of the soft drinks, what we need to do is to drink more water. It will help you to stay healthy,” Minister Anthony advised.

The health ministry is also looking to set up a wellness department by year-end.

The government continues to make significant investments to ensure the nation’s primary health services have the equipment and resources required to guarantee higher quality health services for everyone.

Bids open for Food Processing facility at Lethem

THE Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has opened bids for the construction of a food processing building in Lethem, Region Nine.

According to the Invitation for Bids (IFB) issued by the ministry and published by several print and online media platforms, reputable contractors are being sought for the construction of the facility at the Business Incubator Centre located at the Lethem Industrial Site, Bon Success.

Bids for the project are to be submitted no later than June 13, 2023 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office.

Bidding will be conducted through the National Committee Bidding (NCB) procedures, specified in the Procurement Act

2003, and Regulations 2004.

Earlier this week, the Business Incubator Centre was commissioned by the Small Business Bureau, a semi-autonomous agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.

The facility is expected to provide training and business opportunities for young entrepreneurs such as training in financial management, small business management, preparation of business plans, training in WhatsApp business, training in procurement programmes and assistance in loans and other entrepreneurial support.

Farmers and entrepreneurs are encouraged to make full use of the facility to process, package and enhance their agricultural products for marketing.

Miami Heat beat Boston Celtics 103-84 to reach finals

THE Miami Heat halted the Boston Celtics' remarkable fightback in the Eastern Conference Finals, clinching the deciding match 103-84 to reach the NBA finals.

Jimmy Butler starred, scor-

ing 28 points, seven rebounds and six assists, as the Heat, who led the seven-game series 3-0 before being pegged back to 3-3, reached this year's showpiece.

The first eighth seeds to reach the finals since the New York Knicks in 1999, the Heat will play the the Denver Nuggets in the best-of-seven finals.

Game one will be played in Denver on Thursday (01:30 BST Friday).

Derrick White's dramatic buzzer-beater in game six had tied the series, giving the The Celtics hope of becoming the first side in NBA history to overturn a 3-0 deficit in a playoff final.

But alongside Butler's efforts, Caleb Martin scored 26 points and Bam Adebayo recorded 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists as the Heat silenced a passionate Boston crowd.

Butler, 33, was named MVP of the series after averaging 24.7 points, 7.6 rebounds and 6.1 assists.

"We stayed together as a group," he said.

"We talked about going to get a tough one on the road and we did just that. [My teammates] are the reason we're here. I know how good a team we are and we made it happen."

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he never doubted his squad's resilience.

"Sometimes you have to suffer for the things you really want," he said.

"This group has shown fortitude when there are inevitable let-downs and failures, but had that perseverance to pick yourself up, that collective spirit to keep on forging ahead."

The Heat are seeking a fourth NBA title and first since 2013, while The Nuggets, who beat the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference playoffs, are in search of a maiden championship.(BBC Sport)

Jimmy Butler was named series MVP for his match-winning performances

International cricket must find a way to ‘co-exist’ with T20 leagues – ICC General Manager

INTERNATIONAL cricket will have to find a way to “co-exist” with the continual emergence of franchise-based T20 leagues, ICC’s general manager of cricket Wasim Khan has said.

One of international cricket’s showpiece events, the World Test Championship (WTC) final, is less than a fortnight away but is being played at a time of growing uncertainty around the relevance of the international game.

The emergence of new leagues this year in South Africa, the UAE, and, from July, the USA has put a further crunch on player availabilities in a calendar that was feeling hemmed in even before this year.

Jason Roy is foregoing a part of his incremental contract with England to play in the US’s Major League Cricket (MLC), Trent Boult gave up a central contract with New Zealand last year; there’s talk of IPL franchises offering year-round contracts to players.

All of this is playing out against the backdrop of an international bilateral calendar that is feeling increasingly arbitrary and expendable. And nothing, Khan pointed out, is dropping out of the calendar for the moment.

The fact that Full Members have agreed to retain the WTC over the next eight-year cycle

has given Khan confidence that the game’s oldest format still holds relevance.

“The context for red-ball cricket, when there is competition from other formats, competition for the time of players, the World Test Championship is still very dear to countries and players,” he said. “We’ve heard from some of the top stars around the world talking about the importance of Test cricket.

“It’s important we continue to find an opportunity to co-exist, to ensure our schedule moving forward beyond the next cycle, beyond 2027 is something that provides something for everybody, for all the fans. We have the purists who still love watching Test cricket, players who still love playing it, fans who enjoy white ball as well.

“It is something for us to

keep looking at, keep considering. We are constantly reviewing it behind the scenes. We know the emergence of these leagues does put pressure on the schedule but we’re confident that at least for the next eight years, continual context will be provided for red-ball cricket.”

Some of the discussions have focused on improving pay for Test players across the world, a point Ricky Ponting raised recently. Khan said the point had cropped up in an ICC cricket committee meeting as a discussion point, but had not gone beyond that and had not been taken up by members since.

He did, however, leave the ball in the court of the members, pointing to the fact they will make more money from ICC events than ever before in the new rights cycle – thanks to

“We’re confident that at least for the next eight years, continual context will be provided for red-ball cricket,” Wasim Khan said•Asif Hassan/AFP/Getty Images

new lucrative broadcast deals the ICC has signed over the last year.

“It’s fair to say distributions members will be receiving in the next cycle will be greater than what they’ve received previously,” Khan said.

“Payments of what they pay players is purely down to those members. If there are player associations there, they will certainly be negotiating with those, but where there’s not, it’s down to the boards – and particularly with the key players within those boards – to decide what the payment structure looks like moving forward.”

In the immediate glitz of an incoming WTC final, between India and Australia, the outlook

is brighter. The ICC expects full houses through the first four days of the final at The Oval, between the two best teams over the course of a two-year cycle. And the league and its structure, they say, has been a success so far.

“For now, it continues to work as it is. We made small changes in terms of playing conditions, the soft signal is not there moving forward, but the actual structure of the two-year cycle is constantly reviewed by the members.

“We take their feedback before progressing to the next year but the great news is WTC has been signed off for the next eight

Cricket standards will improve in Essequibo

The government, through the Ministry of Sport, has been very instrumental and decisive in the rehabilitation and maintenance of a number of community grounds across the region.

While this is being done, simultaneously the construction of a stadium in Anna Regina is in progress. This will facilitate the hosting of international matches and optimistically the return of patrons in their numbers, supporting and cheering as was a spectacle in the past. These developments have increased the awareness and interest for those who will benefit; particularly our youths who are yearning for the opportunity to express themselves and with the support and guidance that is needed. It is therefore relevant and inclu-

sive for our infrastructural and human capacity to develop and expand in order to exert the best out of our athletes.

I am therefore impressed that more of the grounds in Essequibo are to a commendable standard to host cricket matches, including better outfields and pitches, accommodation and washroom facilities. Some are even equipped with internet access and lighting.

The Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) continues to aggressively undertake its mandate to promote good governance at all levels, structural and capacity building of clubs and committees, recognition and enactment of female cricket and to cater for their special needs, distribution of gear among committees and generally to create an envi -

ronment that will allow every cricketer to grow from nursery to the highest level.

To this effect, the establishment of seven (7) cricket academies among the committees will significantly enable the board to achieve such achievable goals and in tandem with the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). Already there has been a very encouraging and heartening turnout to these organised sessions for youths between the ages of 7-17; practising for four days a week.

These are very exciting developments that will propel the growth of the game and will enhance the technical, mental and physical composition of how our players are being trained and prepared for the actual game.

At a recent meeting, the ECB elected Mr. Harrischan Raballi

as its Chairman of the Cricket Development Committee.

This is a very important arm of the board that will drive and sustain the momentum by which the ECB functions. His inclusion is a positive dimension and someone who brings a vast level of experience and maturity to the work that is to be done, in all levels of development.

I therefore applaud the ECB and encourage all other stakeholders to support and embrace the vison of the board and to be actively engaged in all the activities that will unfold for the continued growth and development of cricket in Essequibo.

Yours faithfully,

Elroy Stephney, Vice President

years at least.” (ESPNcricinfo

“The fact that we’re seeing some highly competitive domestic T20 leagues around the world provides more choice for fans, more choice for players in terms of taking part, which is only going to improve the product, particularly around our white-ball tournaments, the ICC World Cups,” Khan said.

“Obviously, the way the schedule is structured now and the emergence of these leagues, there has to be a way for us to co-exist. Nothing is going to be removed so we are going to have to co-exist moving forward.

Namilco Under-17 ‘Flour Power’ Buxton Stars surge to top of EDFA standings

BUXTON Stars football club are now top of the points standing of the East Demerara Football Association’s (EDFA) National Milling Company (NAMILCO) ‘Flour Power’ under-17 football tournament following their win and Haslington’s loss last Sunday at the Buxton Community Centre ground.

Both teams were joint top but Melanie’s needling victory over Haslington saw them drop to second place while Buxton eased past Mahaica Determinators 2-0 thanks to goals from Akton Fraser, who opened the scoring in the 10th minute and Comp-

ton Hope, who doubled the advantage with a 37th minute goal.

The EDFA league continues this weekend at the Buxton Community Centre ground with four matches -- two each on Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, Buxton Stars will match skills with Melanie at 15:30hrs while Dynamics FC will be pitted against Mahaica at 17:00hrs.

On Sunday, Victoria Kings will play Haslington at 15:30hrs while Beterverwagting/Triumph will line up against Ann’s Grove at 17:00 hrs in the feature match.

Buxton (left) versus BV/Triumph last Friday

The emergence of new T20 leagues has put a further crunch on player availability • SA 20 Sports

Ben Stokes says he will play full part in Ashes unless he 'can't walk'

CAPTAIN Ben Stokes says the only way he will not take a full part in England's Ashes summer is if he "can't walk".

The 31-year-old had a cortisone injection in a persistent knee injury in March, before playing only two games for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.

Stokes will lead England in the one-off Test against Ireland todayy.

"I've given myself the best possible chance to play a big role, especially with the ball," he told BBC Sport.

Stokes did not bowl in England's last Test, a defeat by New Zealand in Wellington in February.

His time with Chennai was disrupted by a foot injury, after which he was left out of the side, but the all-rounder said he used his time in India to improve his chances of playing a full part with the ball for England.

"The knee is in a much better place than what it was in Wellington," he said.

"I've worked incredibly hard with the medical team in Chennai, who were liaising with the England guys.

"I've got myself into a

place where I feel like I'm back at a 2019, 2020 space in terms of my body.

"I know I won't look back on this summer and regret any decisions that I had in the build-up period, because I've worked my nuts off.

"Unless I can't walk, I'll be on the field."

England will hand a debut to Worcestershire pace bowler Josh Tongue in the fourday Test against the Irish.

Bowlers James Anderson and Ollie Robinson have been left out as they recover from minor injuries, but

Stokes said both would have been able to play had this been the first Ashes Test.

Tongue, 25, has been chosen ahead of Chris Woakes to join Stuart Broad and Matthew Potts in the pace attack.

"We know Woakesy is a very experienced player and what he will offer this team when he plays," said Stokes.

"We see this as a great opportunity to see someone like Josh Tongue go out and play in a Test. We might need someone like him throughout the summer.

"It gives me an opportu-

nity to see what his character is like and what he is like to operate with as a captain. Woakesy completed understood that."

The five-Test Ashes series begins on 16 June, with England looking to regain the urn from Australia for the first time in five years.

Under Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, England have won 10 of their past 12 Tests in thrilling fashion.

Now, the prospect of England taking their swashbuckling style to the Australians is creating the prospect

of the most eagerly anticipated Ashes series since the epic contest of 2005.

Stokes, though, does not believe that this summer will "define" his captaincy.

"That would make it feel like once the Ashes is over, that's it, but it's not it for me as a captain or the end of what this team is about to do," he added.

"This Ashes is about the journey that we've been on and will continue to be on. It's not going to be the end of me as a captain, me as a player or this team and the way we're trying to progress the game."

Stokes also dismissed any suggestion that England's aggressive method will have to be tempered against the high-quality Australian attack.

"That's the English mentality of turning something negative straight away," he said.

"Every team we've played against, it's been said 'it will be a big challenge to play against that team in this way'.

"This is the way we have found ourselves playing our best cricket. Every team we come up against is a challenge, but I find myself an-

swering the same question against different opposition."

This will be Ireland's second Test at Lord's - in 2019 they bowled England out for 85 before themselves succumbing for only 38 in a 143-run loss.

Since then they have played only three Testsall this year. They are still looking for their first ever Test win after six successive defeats.

Left-arm pace bowler Josh Little is not part of the Ireland squad after playing in the IPL final for Gujarat Titans on Monday. Little is being rested with the qualifying tournament for the 50over World Cup beginning on 18 June in Zimbabwe.

"Our focus is to put in our best possible performance," said Ireland captain Andrew Balbirnie.

"As a Test team, this is a pinnacle event for us. We're not sure when our next Test is, so we have to enjoy this.

"I have to support what's best for Josh. Of course I want him in my team, he's a brilliant bowler. I understand he has to rest up and focus on getting ready for the World Cup qualifier."(BBC Sport)

Dhoni to take medical advice for knee injury

"If surgery is advised, it will be completely his call," says CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan

MS Dhoni will be seeking expert opinion from sports orthopaedics in Mumbai on the state of his dodgy left knee before taking a call on his treatment, Chennai Super Kings' CEO Kasi Viswanathan said on Wednesday.

Dhoni had played the entire IPL season with a heavily strapped left knee and although he looked absolutely okay while keeping, more often than not he batted as late as No. 8 and didn't look swift while running between the wickets. After leading the side to their fifth IPL title, though, Dhoni had said he would return for "at least" one more season for the fans,

if his body allowed it.

"Yes, it is true that Dhoni will be taking medical advice for his left knee injury and accordingly decide," Viswanathan told PTI. "If surgery is advised, it can only be ascertained after reports come out, it will be completely his call."

Is there a possibility that Dhoni will decide against playing next season and thus free up a purse of INR 15 crore for the mini-auction?

"Frankly, we are not even thinking along those lines as we haven't reached that stage," Viswanathan said. "It will be completely Dhoni's call. But I can tell you, in CSK, we haven't entertained those thoughts."

Asked if the franchise owner N Srinivasan addressed the players after the

fifth IPL trophy and if celebrations were in the offing.

"He is very happy but there were no celebrations," Viswanathan replied. "The

players dispersed for their respective destinations from Ahmedabad only. Also if you have seen CSK, we are never big on celebrations."

Talking about the team's fifth title, which came despite a spate of injuries to its top players, Viswanathan said: "It's all about team spirit and

every player knowing his role which is very well defined in our set-up.

"Even a player of Ben Stokes' stature, his nature was brilliant around the group and the youngsters looked up to him. This has been possible because of our captain."

What has been CSK's hallmark over the years which enabled them to reach the final in ten of the 14 editions that they have been a part of?

"I have been associated with CSK since season one and we have never deviated from our process. The key has been to keep things simple and explain to every player what is expected of them. In our franchise, the skipper keeps everything uncomplicated." (Cricinfo)

Ben Stokes has led England to 10 wins in their last 12 Tests

Earlier this week, MS Dhoni led Chennai Super Kings to their fifth IPL title • (BCCI)

Golden Jaguars preparing for Gold

Cup preliminaries in Jamaica

THE national men’s football team, Golden Jaguars, is building momentum ahead of the Gold Cup preliminary match against Grenada on June 17 at the DRV PNK Stadium, Miami, Florida, from 21:00h.

From Sunday, May 28, they have been encamped and training at the Jamaica Football Federation Technical Centre in Kingston.

Each day, the players’ workload is gradually increasing and they have responded positively to the sessions.

In the coming days, they will have practice matches against local premier clubs before departing on June 5 for another camp in Florida until June 15.

Sport Ministry's 'Learn to Swim' initiative commences this Saturday

The winner of the Guyana/ Grenada match plays the winner of Guadalupe vs Trinidad and Tobago, for a spot in the group stages (round-of-16 ) at the Gold Cup.

That team will join Canada, Guatemala, and Cuba in Group D.

The 2023 Gold Cup Prelims are being held between June 16 – 20, and this is Guyana’s second appearance in the regional competition.

In an interview at a recent KFC Elite League match, Head Coach Shabazz acknowledged that Grenada is a formidable team but quickly added that he is making adjustments to strengthen his side for the much-anticipated match.

GAW announces retained Caribbean players for 2023 CPL

Yesterday, the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) confirmed their retained Caribbean players ahead of the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), with last year’s skipper Shimron Hetmyer being among nine players.

Hetmyer, who had a decent season with the Rajasthan Royals in the just concluded TATA IPL, leads a pack that comprises Odean Smith, Romario Shepherd, Shai Hope, Keemo Paul, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Gudakesh Motie, Matthew Nandu and Junior Sinclair.

Hetmyer made 299 runs from 14 games for the Royals, averaging 37 and striking at 151.

CPL 2023 gets underway on August 16 with the final taking place on September 24 in Guyana.

In addition, there will be matches in Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago.

The overseas players and draft picks will be announced during the Republic Bank CPL draft show, which will be broadcast at the end of this month.

Sinclair all-round effort puts WI ‘A’ in...

SCOREBOARD

SCOREBOARD

BANGLADESH

From page 24 fours and a six off 122 deliveries.

FOLLOWING the incredible success of the annual Easter Vacation Swimming Programme in April, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, in collaboration with the National Sports Commission, will start its inaugural adult ‘Learn to Swim’ initiative on Saturday.

The programme, which will be conducted every Saturday and Sunday during the month of June, will be conducted at two facilities: the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal, and the Colgrain Swimming Pool, Georgetown.

The initiative will occur from 14:00hrs-15:00hrs and 15:00hrs-16:00hrs respectively during the aforementioned period. The National Aquatic Centre will be utilized on Saturdays while the Colgrain Swimming Facility will be used on Sundays. An opening ceremony is penciled for Saturday at the National Aquatic Centre from 13:15hrs.

Experienced national coach Paul Mahaica will serve as the coordinator and lead trainer. The initiative is being formulated to be introduced to other parts of the country, namely Linden and Berbice, during the month of July. To date, more than 1200 individuals have registered for the impending project.

on the heels of the historic 2200 participants garnered for the recently conducted Easter Vacation Swimming programme. The success of the Easter programme clearly aided in the response to this novel initiative and once again highlights government’s commitment in charting a developmental agenda and path for the development of its most important resource -- the human capital. Once again, the programme is free of cost and will be financially undertaken by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission.”

According to Ninvalle, “Safety will once again be our guiding light. We are cognisant of the huge turnout and will employ the requisite safety standards and protocols to ensure an incident-free venture. An environment that is not only safe but conducive to learning is what we strive for and will achieve during this period. That is essentially for its success and its continuation.”

out, 116.2 ov) 445

Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-1, 3-83, 4-215, 5-241, 6-260, 7-322, 8-409, 9-417, 10-445

Bowling: Mushfik Hasan 18-5-59-2, Shoriful Islam 19-1-80-1, Tanzim Hasan 19-2-75-0, Saif Hasan 12-2-49-0, Nasum Ahmed 38.2-8-133-5, Mominul Haque 3-1-18-0, Mahmudul Hasan 7-0-19-1.

Extras (b3, lb5, w4, nb6) 18

TOTAL (7 wkts, 47.0 ov) 157

Fall of wickets: 1-25, 2-37, 3-66, 4-79, 5-97, 6-117, 7-138

To bat: Shoriful Islam, Mushfik Hasan.

Bowling: Jordan 8-2-21-1, Reifer 6-0-23-1, Phillip 9-2-36-2, Sinclair 15-3-51-2, Permaul 9-1-18-0.

Position: Bangladesh A trail by 288 runs with three first innings wickets intact.

Unbeaten on 22 at the start, he lost Raymon Reifer before the left-hander added to his overnight 56, caught at the wicket off left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam (2-80), but then frustrated Bangladesh A by inspiring an 87-run with Akeem Jordan (47).

The right-handed Jordan lashed five fours and a six in a breezy 63-ball innings before he was eighth out, clipping a simple catch to short mid-wicket off off-spinner Mahmudul Hasan.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle stated, “Overwhelming is an understatement with regards to the response to the programme. We have received over 1200 applicants and counting, which is

And Sinclar followed soon afterwards, missing a heave at left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed (5-133) to be adjudged lbw on the verge of the scheduled lunch interval.

In reply, Bangladesh A lost Mahmudul cheaply for nine in the ninth over of the innings, brushing a leg-side catch to wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach off Jordan.

And Mominul Haque followed for five in the next

Meanwhile, Mahaica, during brief remarks, said, “This is a very important programme. The numbers that are registering and we are starting in Georgetown indicates the eagerness for the opportunity. People are excited and can actually do something that they would have wanted to learn which was only afforded to their children. Now they also have the opportunity to learn a life skill for free.”

over, lazily clipping left-arm seamer Reifer to captain Joshua Da Silva at mid-wicket, as Bangladesh stumbled to tea on 48 for two.

In the final session, Saif and Zakir extended their third wicket stand to 29 but that proved the most productive of the innings as Sinclair and Phillip combined to engineer the hosts’ decline.

Members of the Golden Jaguars going through their paces at the Jamaica Football Federation Technical Centre (Photo: Guyana Football Federation)

GAW Caribbean players

Flashback: This year's Easter swim programme

Adams to leave director of cricket role next month

Antigua, (CMC)

ST JOHN’S,

– Jimmy Adams will leave his role as Cricket West Indies’ director of cricket when his contract expires next month.

The 55-year-old former Test captain has served in the position for the last six-and-a-half years and becomes the fourth high profile CWI official to depart the organisation within the last seven months.

Head coach Phil Simmons and white-ball captain Nicholas Pooran both quit late last year following West Indies’ disastrous T20 World Cup qualifying campaign while CWI president Ricky Skerritt chose not to seek re-election earlier this year.

“It’s been an honour to have been involved in the ongoing evolution of CWI,” said Adams.

“I have had the privilege of working with some amazing people across the organisation and am grateful for all the support they gave me over the past six plus years.

“I wish everyone all the best going forward especially in light of the various challenges that exist both regionally and globally.”

CWI said, on Wednesday, under Adams’ leadership, the organisation had launched its coach education and development department which had already produced over 1,000 new certified coach-

es across the region.

The Jamaican has also been credited with establishing CWI’s sports science and medicine department, and also setting up the high-performance coaching group.

“We are extremely grateful for the leadership and contribution that Jimmy has made over the past six and half years,” said CWI’s chief executive, Johnny Grave.

“He has overhauled our High-Performance structure, especially with respect to Coach Education & Development, Sport Science & Medicine and most recently with the launch of our Academy based at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua.

“I have no doubt that Jimmy will continue to contribute to the game,

particularly West Indies Cricket.”

Dr Kishore Shallow, who replaced Skerritt as president unopposed last March, hailed Adams’s “composed demeanour and professionalism” throughout his tenure.

“Jimmy has always served West Indies Cricket with passion and distinction,” Shallow said.

“His composed demeanour and professionalism have inspired many positive outcomes over the years.

“One of his legacies would definitely be the commencement of a coaching revolution in the region. On behalf of the CWI Board, we wish him a favourable future path.”

Adams has copped some criticism over the years, however, owing

Sinclair all-round effort puts WI ‘A’ in command

largely to his seeming lack of [vision] as both the men and women’s squads have struggled internationally.

West Indies men are currently ranked eighth in Tests, 10th in One-Day Internationals and seventh in T20 Internationals, while the women’s side lie sixth in ODIs and T20s.

Following West Indies’ failure to qualify for last year’s T20 World in Australia, legendary former West Indies fast bowler Andy Roberts accused Adams of being “on a joyride for a long time”.

Adams, who played 54 Tests and 127 One-Day Internationals for the West Indies, is a former head coach of English county Kent, where he spent four years before leaving in 2016.

SYLHET, Bangladesh, (CMC) – Kevin Sinclair continued to press his case as an all-rounder with his second fifty of the tour and third in his last six innings, as West Indies “A” took full control of the final four-day ‘Test’ against Bangladesh ‘A’ here Wednesday.

The 23-year-old, better known for his steady off-spin, struck 60 – the fifth half-century of the innings – to help propel West Indies A to a strong first innings total of 445 all out on day two of the contest at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Sinclair (2-51) then returned with the ball, along with fast bowler Anderson PHillip (2-26), to reduce the hosts to 157 for seven at the close.

Captain Saif Hassan top-scored with 32, opener Zakir Hassan got 29 and wicketkeeper Nurul Hasan chipped in with 28 but Bangladesh A found difficulty in stringing together partnerships and never quite settled.

Resuming on their overnight 320 for six, West Indies A’s pressure was built by Sinclair who lifted them past the 400-run mark in a knock which included seven

Continued on page 23

Director of cricket, Jimmy Adams

Kevin Sinclair forced a delivery through the on-side during his half-century on Wednesday