Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 07-04-2023

Millions in D&I works for farming areas in Regions Two, Three, Six, Eight

THE Ministry of Agriculture, through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), continues to make critical interventions in farming communities to help mitigate flooding.

This is critical as Guyana takes the lead in CARICOM achieving food security as part of its vision to lessen the almost $5 billion food-importation bill by 25 per cent by the

Also, a new pump station is expected to be constructed at Letter Kenny/ Bloomfield outfall channel, Corentyne, Region Six, at an engineer’s estimated cost of over $936 million.

The agency is also seeking contractors for the supply of irrigation pipers for Uruberu Road, Paramakatoi, Region Eight at an estimated cost of over $8 million.

year 2025.

Only recently the NDIA signed over $500 million in contracts to aid in flood mitigation and improve the drainage and irrigation system in several areas.

The NDIA is currently inviting bids for the empoldering of farmlands in Bethany Creek in Region Two, with an engineer’s estimated cost of over $25 million.

In addition, bids are being invited for the rehabilitation of drainage channels at Aliki and Beribissibali, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), Region Three with an engineer’s estimated cost of over $91 million.

All bids must be deposited into the tender box at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) located at the Ministry of Finance, Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, on or before Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 09:00hrs.

According to the ministry, bids will be opened in the presence of those bidders or their representatives who choose to attend at 09:00hrs on April 13 in the boardroom of NPTAB.

A whopping $19.7 billion was set aside in budget 2023 for critical drainage and irrigation works in several areas countrywide. (DPI)

More drainage works are expected to be undertaken in several communities

President Ali confident of favourable outcome in border case

IN wake of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)’s rejection of Venezuela’s preliminary objection in the border case, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has expressed confidence that the court will confirm the land boundary between the two countries in Guyana’s favour.

President Ali made a statement to the nation on Thursday shortly after the court ruled against Venezuela.

“The court rejected Venezuela’s objection and upheld its jurisdiction to decide the case by a vote of 14 to 1. This means the court will now proceed to decide a dispute between the two states on the merits and ultimately issue a final and binding determination on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award…” the President said in his statement which was broadcasted live on the Office of the President Facebook page.

He said the Award fixed the land boundary between Venezuela and the then British Guiana.

Venezuela, and the United Kingdom recognised the validity of that Arbitral Award thus resulting in an international boundary being in place for more than 60 years. According to President Ali, Guyana also recognised the Award and boundary upon attaining independence in 1966.

“But Venezuela had changed its position and began claiming more than two-thirds of Guyana’s territory west of the Essequibo River. This is the second time the international court has rejected jurisdictional objections raised by Venezuela,” he pointed out.

President Ali explained that in December 2020, the court overruled Venezuela’s objection by a vote of 12 to 4.

However, in June 2022, Venezuela raised a new objection. Oral hearings were held in November 2022, during which both parties appeared and presented their arguments before the court.

He stressed that Thursday’s ruling disposes of that objection and will require Venezue-

la to submit its written pleadings on the merits of the case, that is, the validity of the Arbitral Award and the international boundary that it established.

“Guyana remains confident that its long-standing international boundary with Venezuela will be confirmed by the court. Guyana has always been fully committed to the peaceful resolution of the dispute with its neighbour and sister republic in accordance with international law.

“That is why, after attempting unsuccessfully to achieve a diplomatic settlement through talks mediated by the United Nations Secretary-General over more than two decades, Guyana brought the matter to the International Court of Justice for a final and binding determination.

All Member States of the United Nations, including Guyana and Venezuela, are obligated under the United Nations Charter to comply with the court’s binding judgments,” President Ali added.

‘You cannot bully people into trusting you’ - President Ali

–– urges opposition to direct energy towards developing Guyana

By Tamica Garnett

TO build a society that moves into a modern era, political trust must be created. However, that trust must be generated under ethical values and elements of integrity, and cannot be formed through unapologetic, overt attempts to subvert democracy.

This was the sentiments of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, who on Thursday issued a video statement on social media to once again shoot down the political opposition’s continuous attempt to use propaganda centred on race and ethnicity as a weapon.

While reiterating the government’s willingness to work with the political opposition, he said they will refuse to do so in an antagonistic environment where goodwill is not reciprocated.

“Many people today talk about building trust and bridging the divide and helping to advance our country. But there are some truths that we cannot escape. If you look at how some people approach this whole issue of building trust and creating harmony in our country, it is worrying,” the President noted.

“To say that we want to create social harmony, we want a united society, and that good could have only come about through rigged elections and could have only come about through an attempt to steal elections, that is not the way you build modern society. That is not the way you build a democratic society. You have to earn trust. You cannot bully your way into gaining the trust of people.”

The President noted that political trust incorporates justice, adherence to the dem-

ocratic norms, which cannot be alternated at whims and fancies, as he pointed to the behaviour of the main political opposition, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), now coalesced into the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

He noted that for trust between the government and the opposition to be created and nurtured, the APNU must first make right the grave wrong that it brought on the Guyanese people when it dragged out the 2020 elections for five antagonising months, and failed in its attempts to rig the country’s those elections.

Even in the face of all of that, it was pointed out that the opposition continues to attempt to establish itself as standing for democracy, unity and harmony.

President Ali accused the opposition of trying to demonstrate values that are not supported by their own behaviour and action, noting that healing requires an acceptance of guilt.

“You cannot turn on and off your democratic values as you wish and say that, oh, we are champions of democracy. And it’s like a switch you’re turning off and on.

Democracy is what we live every day, what you breathe every day, what you project every day.

You cannot be serious about freedom, human rights, justice, fairness and democracy when you try to nakedly steal the elections. No, it doesn’t happen that way,” the President said.

DEVELOPMENT PROGRESSING

Whether the opposition atones or not, the government has committed to placing its focus on developing Guyana with or

without the APNU’s support.

This is evident through the government’s continued efforts to go directly into communities to get a first-hand understanding of people’s concerns and issues, and work with them to craft solutions.

“What keeps me up at night is the welfare of the people of this country. Not the rhetoric, not the propaganda, not the hate speeches, not the negativity which some people are bent on promoting and the disinterest in the development agenda for our country, in the transformation of our country,” Dr. Ali said.

“We are building a Guyana in which all of us would be proud and an economy in 2030 that will be far different. That will be relevant, competitive, one that will ensure the survival of all of us as a people and our country as a state. This is what keeps me up at night. This is where I put my energy.”

The government’s continuous show of willingness to work with people all across Guyana, in every community, in every region, more than anything has been defeating the opposition race rhetoric. Nonetheless, the President said the opposition continues to clutch at whatever straws it can.

However, with citizens of all races continuing to see past the opposition’s smoke screen, embracing the government’s policy of development and unity, the political opposition has taken it a step further by attacking citizens directly.

With many Afro-Guyanese embracing the government’s development agenda and defeating the opposition’s race rhetoric, Afro-Guyanese supporters of the government often receive the ire of the political opposition and its supporters.

The President denounced the ridicule often meted out to Afro-Guyanese supporters of the government.

“We’re not going to allow the intellectual authors of this divisive politics, race baiting politics to succeed. I am pledging to the people of this country that we are going to bypass the intellectual authors and come directly to the people. Ethnicity has no place as a political tool in a modern Guyana. Absolutely no place,” Dr. Ali said.

He further noted that political relevance must be based on your ability to shape ideas, deliver vision, create policies, and win the hearts and minds of people based on what you project for their well-being.

“Look at our investments in people, investments in communities, investments in the different regions, investment in social services [and] investment in agriculture, you will see there is no disparity. If you compare what we invest per capita in every sector, in every single region, you will see that even regions and communities that the opposition would claim to love and care about got more investment under this government. I challenge them to look at our per capita investment in every single region and show where there is discrimination. Show where there is bias,” he emphasised.

Moreover, the President pointed out that the opposition is still yet to produce any facts to support that any community in Guyana has been discriminated against or left behind.

“Where is the discrimination? Not under this government. It will never occur.

The truth presents the reality. The facts are grounded in the truth, not the falsehood,” the President said.

–- says Guyana remains committed to peaceful resolution

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Ready to contest

–– PPP/C finalises list of nominees for all but one Local Authority Area

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, said on Thursday, that except for one area, the party has managed to finalise its list of nominees for the various local government bodies across the country, even as the major political opposi-

tion continues to grapple with finding people to make up their lists.

It has to be that the party – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), headed by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton – wants a number of “phantom” issues addressed before deciding whether or not it will contest the up -

coming Local Government Elections (LGE),” Dr. Jagdeo posited.

During his news conference held at party headquarters, Freedom House, Jagdeo observed: “He said they are preparing across the country for LGE but they’re not sure they will contest as yet…. because they want a number of things addressed. But he hasn’t named what he wants addressed.”

“So we are about just

over a week from submitting our List of Nominees for the various local government bodies and the major opposition party in the country has not made a decision whether it will contest or not, but is preparing, and it wants a number of issues, phantom issues, addressed,” he continued.

This “state of confusion” that that party is in at this point must be affecting the party’s own candidates and

supporters, Jagdeo said.

“Here they are saying they are signing up statutory forms…and why are they doing it if they don’t know whether they are contesting as yet? This is really confusing to the people of Guyana.”

Meanwhile, there are lots of candidates who have shown their willingness to contest for the PPP, so much so that “we have to narrow it down to a limited amount.”

He added: “We have practically completed in every area except one NDC (Neighbourhood Democratic Council) where I have to go on the ground and personally meet people. I can only do that on the ground. Except for that one area, I think we have finalised our list for all of the areas across the country.”

Dr. Jagdeo said the opposition party is finding it very hard not only to come up with a list of candidates in many NDCs across Guyana, but also in finding backers for the list. He recalled what happened in the 2018 LGEs where the signatures of many backers were forged on the Corentyne coast and in Whim/Bloomfield NDC.

“You recall the AFC (Alliance For Change) fooled a number of people. They told them they were signing up to get house lots and the people suddenly saw their names as backers for the list in the Whim/Bloomfield area. In many other areas they forged the signatures of the backers so we have to be very vigilant that this will not repeat itself because they are having a difficult time,” he added.

Regarding concerns of a revolt or violence around the time of the LGEs, Jagdeo said that persons should not worry too much. “We are watching it seriously and we are not going to tolerate any incitement,” he told Guyana Chronicle following the press conference.

Meanwhile, confident of its track record, the PPP/C is promising a robust campaign and a determined fight at this year’s elections which is slated for June 12. The party said it plans to contest in all of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAA) across the country.

Efforts to contact Norton for a comment on Dr. Jagdeo’s statements were futile.

PPP/C General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

APNU’s excuse for silence on new PSA is 'nonsense'

– says Jagdeo

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has dismissed as nonsense, excuses proffered by the main political opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for their silence and lack of feedback on the new Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that was released by the government last month.

Dr. Jagdeo commented on the situation at People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) weekly press conference, on Thursday afternoon, shortly after the Leader of the Opposition (LOO) and head of APNU, Aubrey Norton, had ended his weekly engagement with the media.

The government released the draft PSAs for

the deepwater and shallow water blocks early last month and granted a 14 days period for public consultation to gather feedback on the document. With the consultation period having since closed, Jagdeo earlier this month said that the government had received immense feedback from the public.

However, noticeably missing from the discussion was commentary from the main political opposition parties.

During the APNU press conference, the party’s lead economist, Elson Low side-stepped questions from the media concerning whether the party planned to submit commentary on the critical contract that governs arrangements between the government and all future

General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo oil and gas producers.

“…up to now you can’t present your comments saying it is because you need to do it in a structured way… They have no comment. You can see nonsense when you hear it, you can identify it. This guy doesn’t have

a clue about anything in the PSA and this is the main opposition party in this country,” Dr. Jagdeo remarked.

“Low said at the appropriate time they will release these [feedback]. How can you even say something so stupid to a country. What is structured about your comments? We know what the problems with old PSA were, and the PSA is drafted by sections. Section one clause one and issue comments.”

There was widespread criticism of the 2016 PSA that was orchestrated by the APNU during its time in government while in coalition with the Alliance For Change (AFC).

Based on the draft PSA, Guyana would receive better terms, and more benefits when compared to the contentious 2016 PSA. These will in-

clude an increased royalty rate from two per cent to 10 per cent, corporate tax of 10 per cent; and a cap on cost oil of 65 per cent.

The agreement also includes better provisions for the signing bonus, relinquishment terms, activities related to the abandonment of the block, and an increase in the training fee.

The new PSA will be used by the government in signing on to contractors who are awarded blocks in Guyana’s ongoing auction. Guyana is currently auctioning off three deep-water and 11 shallow-water blocks.

There is a separate agreement for the deep-water and shallow-water areas.

The model petroleum agreements will be followed by an overhaul of the 1986 Petroleum Act and Regulations.

Guyana is among 65 countries that launched auctions of oil blocks, and as such the government has worked along with international consultant, IHS Markit Consulting, to offer the best terms that will see the country remaining competitive while also getting a fair deal.

PPP/C

A Good Friday For One Guyana!

TODAY is Good Friday for Christians the-world-over and in Guyana they’re not only observing the start of their holy Easter weekend, but also sharing in the coinciding Muslim Ramadan and Hindu Navratri observances.

Good Friday may be considered by some as being misnamed, as it observes the day Jesus Christ was crucified and killed on The Cross that he bore along the 14 Stations (stops) leading to his cruel death.

But Christian scholars will explain that his Resurrection the next day and Assumption to Heaven on Easter Sunday meant that Friday meant more of good than the evil exacted on Christ that day.

Easter, Ramadan and Navratri all have common philosophical bases, including fasting – a period of voluntary sacrifice that helps cleanse the spirits and souls of all three sets of believers.

The Veda, Quran and Bible come in different stories and languages, but the messages cross the lives of all as they

spell chapters that every living being can relate to at one point or another.

Guyana being a CARICOM member-state where official ceremonies and events must start with Hindu, Muslim and Christian prayers, citizens have grown-up communing together religiously, as shared with the world this week through another special World Documentary Feature by Qatar-based international TV channel Al Jazeera, entitled ‘Ramadan in Guyana’.

In the globally-broadcast presentation, President, Dr Irfaan Ali, Guyana’s first Muslim President, informed and reminded the world that all religions are respected here, pointing to the confluence of different denominational and religious observances that started in March and continue into this month.

Also shown was the spread of Islam and other religions across race, class, cultural and social barriers in Guyana, similarly enveloping and embracing citizens of Amerindian, Indo, Afro, Chinese, Portuguese and European extract, in their communities and workplaces,

at home or in their respective places of worship.

Viewers across the oceans and skies welcomed the surprise sight and sound of Guyanese Muslims reading the Quran in Islam, just as with Hindus who read the Veda in Hindi and Christians who can still find Biblical quotes, in any version of The Bible for any happening in life.

Caribbean religious adoptions and adaptations are quite unique – and not only in Guyana, as, neighbouring Suriname is the only country where a Muslim Mosque and a Jewish Synagogue exist side-by-side, with no problems.

Likewise, in Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago, where religious multiplicities exist, seasonal observances take place across religious boundaries or borders -- none of which actually really exist.

Religious differences can be very accentuated in other regions, like in the Middle East and Europe, where the Arab world is churning over continuing Israeli-Palestinian clashes, including at

the Al Aqsa Mosque, where Mohammed ascended to the heavens; and Beirut awoke to two time zones in March as a result of Daylight Saving Time, with serious political and religious consequences for the ungoverned country’s different believers.

Unfortunately, over centuries, religious differences have been allowed to spill over into political and violent crises that have cost countless lives in too many countries. But fortunately, not so in Guyana, or the rest of CARICOM, where people of different faiths attended same schools and religion never affected their lifelong relationships.

Good Friday is both a holy day and a religious holiday in multi-religious Guyana and throughout the Christian world and its observance here by virtually all Guyanese, whether by fasting or worshipping accordingly, is everlasting testimony that this is forever one Guyana with one people, following one aim and one destiny, through different Gods, but common races, cultures, classes and religions.

Ram’s presidential hopes

Dear Editor,

I FEEL very sorry for Chris Ram. I read with interest a series of letters in mainstream media on Chris Ram, and I wonder how he’s been processing the contents of these letters.

The contents of all of the letters about

the individual I can attest are very accurate. He indeed possesses qualities of an insecure person. He may not remember me or know me at all, but years ago in the mid-90s, I was a gardener working with the people next door to him on Waterloo Street.

And I can recall when the late Cheddi B Jagan died, I thought he was slipping

into a sorry state. Almost everyday during that period, I recall seeing him walking in his yard mumbling to himself that he has to become the next President after Cheddi. I was even there when the late Janet handed over the presidency to Bharrat Jagdeo and Ram was growing more perturbed. He lamented who is Bharrat Jag-

deo, it is he who has to become President. Something is definitely wrong with the fella and he wanted to be President a very long time. It doesn’t matter which political party.

Yours sincerely, Shankar

Bhawani Mathura

Editor Navendra Seoraj

GFS warns against unauthorised burning of grass, garbage

THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) said on Thursday that it has noticed an upsurge in grass and garbage fires and is therefore advising residents to be aware of the risks and to refrain from openly burning heaps of garbage or grass.

In a press release, the Fire Service noted that one person lost his life when an unmanaged rubbish fire spread to a nearby building.

“If grass or garbage fires do occur, they should never be left unattended as they possess the potential to become major fire emergencies,” the Fire Service warned. It was explained that

persons desirous of using fire as a method of land clearing or for any other purpose must obtain permission from the Guyana Fire Service before proceeding further.

Additionally, citizens should note that the open burning of garbage is “prohibited” and perpetrators can find themselves paying no less than $80,000 or spending three months in prison for the offence.

To help prevent and control grass and garbage fires, GFS listed the following tips:

-Desist from openly burn-

ing grass and garbage. Find other means of disposal and/ or land clearing.

- Never leave a grass or garbage fire unattended, these fires can quickly get out of hand and spread rapidly.

- Report large grass and garbage fires to the fire department.

- Do not throw cigarette or cigar butts on the ground or out of a vehicle. Dispose of them properly and make sure they are completely extinguished.

- Be mindful of parking vehicles on dry grass or

shrubs. Exhaust systems on vehicles can reach a temperature of more than 1000 degrees and it takes only about 500 degrees to start a fire during the dry season.

- Parents should emphasize to their children the dangers of playing with fire as some grass fires are started by children who have no idea how quickly flames can grow and spread.

- Keep a shovel, bucket of water, fire extinguisher, or other fire-suppression tools on hand. These will be useful in the event of a fire.

12 homeless after fire sweeps through West Ruimveldt range houses

FOUR range houses in Ivy Lane, West Ruimveldt were, on Thursday afternoon, destroyed by a fire of unknown origin which has left 12 persons homeless.

According to Guyana Fire Service Divisional Officer (Operations), Clive McDon-

ald, at approximately 12:23 hours, the GFS received a call about a fire in the West Ruimveldt community.

He said that the fire tender at the Fire Station in West Ruimveldt was immediately dispatched, followed by one from the Central Fire Station

and another from the Eccles Fire Station.

He said the first two tenders on the scene immediately began to extinguish the fire, preventing it from spreading further.

One of the affected persons, Joycelyn (only name

given), stated that she wasn’t aware there was a fire until her daughter told her about it.

“…. The whole house engulf with fire. We couldn’t

have done anything,” the woman said before adding that herself, her daughter and her grandchildren occupied one of the burnt houses.

Firefighters were able to save her granddaughter’s pet rabbit.

There were no reports of injuries.

A fireman extinguishes an unauthorised garbage fire (Guyana Fire Service photo)

Firemen saved a pet rabbit from one of the burning houses

The aftermath of the fire (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

Elderly men die in separate fires

THE Guyana Fire Service on Thursday extended condolences to the relatives and friends of Sammy Munian and Harmon Perreira, who perished by fire in separate incidents in a 24hour period.

The first fire was reported at 16:01hrs on Wednesday and water tender #106 and crew from the Mahaica Fire Station responded to the Fairfield, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara location, a press release said.

The structure involved was a one-flat wooden building, which was owned and occupied by 75-year-old Sammy Munian.

“The incident was the result of a deliberate setting of fire to rubbish, which subsequently spread to the house that was in close proximity. By the time the fire was extinguished, the building and its contents were destroyed, and Munian’s remains were discovered,” the Fire Service said.

The following day, at 07:44hrs, the Fire Service was alerted to another fire at Lot 11 A, Williamsburg, Corentyne, Berbice.

Water tenders #86 and #74 from the Rose Hall and New Amsterdam fire stations were immediately dispatched to the scene, where a two-storey wooden and concrete building was engulfed in

flames.

The building was owned by 64-year-old Harmon Perreira, and was occupied by himself and his family of six.

As a result of the fire, the building and its contents were destroyed, and Perreira lost his life.

According to the Fire Service, the fire was caused by the overheating of an AC conductor, which ignited nearby combustibles and spread to the entire building.

One jet from Light Pump #105, working from an open water source, along with one jet from WT#86 and two jets from WT#74 tank supplies, were used to extinguish the fire.

Ganja trafficker sentenced to three years, nine months in prison

SHABEKA Spencer, a 39-year-old clothes vendor of Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice who was caught with a large quantity of can-

––fined $7.9M in a press release that at about 17:45 hours on April 5, a team of ranks headed by the Officer-in -Charge of the Narcotics Branch, CID HQ, acting on intelligence received, proceeded to Vlissengen

nabis, was on Thursday, sentenced to three years, nine months in prison and fined $7,900,000.

Spencer admitted to having 19.25 pounds (8.75 kilograms) of cannabis in her possession on April 5, 2023.

She was charged with Possession of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking under Section 5(1)(a)(i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act Chapter 10:10 and appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Chief Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan. Police had disclosed

Road, Georgetown, where a motor vehicle in which the suspect was an occupant was intercepted.

“During the search, the ranks observed a black suitcase that was next to the suspect in the back passenger seat, where several packages suspected to be cannabis were wrapped in transparent plastic. The suspect was told of the allegation and cautioned,” the release said.

She was promptly arrested and taken to CID headquarters along with the 13 compact packages which were later were weighed.

New Amsterdam pensioner Harmon Perreira lost his life in a house fire which was caused by an overheated AC conductor (Guyana Fire Service photo)

Shabeka Spencer and the ganja she was caught with (Guyana Police Force photo)

Aneal Giddings sworn in as new DCEO, DCNR

ANEAL Giddings was on Thursday sworn in as the new Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) and Deputy Commissioner of Registration (DCNR) of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrate’s court.

His swearing in followed the approval of his appointment by GECOM commissioners at a meeting earlier this week.

In an invited comment, Giddings told members of the media that he intends to faithfully execute his duties to the best of his ability.

“In this appointment and as I have been before as the IT manager, I’ve always tried to ensure that we plan and execute to the highest

of standards and ensure that everything is done transparently and according to the law,” he said.

Giddings served as an information technology manager at the commission for several years and he believes that this post has qualified him for his new role. -

“My actions before would speak for themselves. I’ve been with GECOM for quite some time, I’ve been there for the 2018 Local Government Elections, the 2020 general elections, the national recount expertise and I at no point in time was I ever cautioned or called out on misconduct at the level of the commission,” Giddings added.

Giddings said he expects some hiccups, but he

intends to work along with all the commissioners.

“I do expect some ups and downs, but at the end of the day, the commission is a collective and it is headed by the chairman. There are always debates and discussions at that level and at the end of the day there is a decision made and that decision will direct myself how to proceed. While I foresee some issues, I have no doubt that I will be able to proceed.”

Meanwhile, as Guyana prepares for Local Government Elections (LGE) and

Nomination Day, Giddings indicated that his focus will be on ensuring that these events occur without any hiccups.

Giddings received the votes of the three government-appointed commissioners. In contrast, the opposition-appointed commissioners opposed the former IT manager’s appointment.

The deciding vote was cast by Chairperson of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh in favour of Giddings.

The DCEO post was

left vacant after the former office holder, Roxanne Myers, was booted from the position in August 2021.

Myers’ termination stemmed from the successful passage of three motions which were filed calling for her, Keith Lowenfield and Clairmont Mingo to be summarily dismissed.

When the matter was finally put to a vote, it received the support of the GECOM Chairperson.

GECOM in 2022, re-advertised the DCEO post, along with a few other positions.

OPPOSITION Leader, Aubrey Norton, on Thursday continued his criticism of the houses that have been constructed by the government as part of the ongoing housing drive.

He later acknowledged that no assessment of the structures was done by his party to substantiate the criticism.

While delivering remarks during his weekly press conference, he stated that the opposition was dismayed and shocked over the “questionable” design and size of the low-income houses being constructed by the government in various areas.

However, when questioned by members of the media about the criticisms and whether the opposition did any assessments to substantiate the claims, he responded in the negative.

“You don’t need any sophisticated assessment… it is obviously poor quality,” he said.

He then went on to add that the relevant agencies should be called in to conduct the assessments.

Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton

According to the opposition leader, persons have reported to him that the houses are not of quality.

Though the opposition did not conduct any assessments to determine the quality of the houses constructed, he urged others to visit and assess the structures themselves.

Late last year, the opposition leader had called low-income houses, which were similar to the ones constructed under the APNU+AFC administration, “chicken coops.”

At that time, he said that the houses create an environment where children will be exposed to “adult activities”.

He was subsequently called out for these remarks though he noted that he did not see his comments as insulting.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues had publicly said that the remarks made by Norton were derogatory.

Aneal Giddings was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) and Deputy Commissioner of Registration (DCNR) of GECOM (Naomi Parris photo)

Norton admits criticism of low-income houses baseless

APNU+AFC welcomes rejection of Venezuela’s preliminary objection in border case

THE APNU+AFC has thrown its full support behind the government and people of Guyana in the wake of the International Court of Justice’s decision in the border case.

Opposition Parliamentarian, Amanza WaltonDesir in a statement said that the decision was a welcome relief for Guyana as the court rejected

Venezuela’s preliminary objections.

“APNU+AFC stands with the Government and people of Guyana in welcoming the decision handed down… With the court’s rejection of Venezuela’s preliminary objections, the way has now been cleared for the ICJ to adjudicate on the merits of the case, in pursuit of a final and binding judgment on the matter,” WaltonDesir said.

The ICJ’s decision is seen as a significant victory in Guyana’s fight for its territorial integrity and sovereignty. The case concerns a long-standing border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region, which is rich in natural resources.

Both countries and the international community are eagerly awaiting the final and binding judgment.

Baby’s death: Ogle daycare owner remanded until May 10

THE owner of Little Learners Day Care, was, on Thursday, remanded to prison over the death of seven-month-old baby Oriyah Gravesande, who was left in her care.

Denise Benn of Ogle, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Alisha George at the

Benn was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on March 21, 2023, she un-

lawfully killed Gravesande.

She was remanded to prison until May 10.

On March 21, the infant died after her mother, Shavannie Gravesande, dropped her off at the daycare facility which is located at Benn’s house.

A post-mortem examination conducted by government pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh confirmed that the infant died from haemorrhaging and compression to the neck.

The Guyana Chronicle

understands that the facility has been in operation for over two decades without proper documentation.

Following the infant’s death, the daycare was closed down. It was reported that the baby died after falling from a bed and becoming tangled between the sheets.

Based upon a police investigation, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, recommended that Benn be charged with manslaughter.

Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court.

Denise Benn

Little Oriyah Gravesande

Opposition Parliamentarian Amanza Walton-Desir

Full steam ahead

–– ICJ throws out Venezuela's preliminary objection in border case

By Clestine Juan

GUYANA, on Thursday, moved one step closer to having the longstanding border controversy resolved when the International Court of Justice (ICJ) unanimously dismissed the preliminary objection raised by Venezuela in the case which concerns the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899.

The ruling was handed down by Judge Joan E. Donoghue at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. Of the 15-member panel of judges, only one voted in favour of Venezuela.

Guyana moved to the ICJ with its case in March 2018, challenging the non-participating Bolivarian Republic

claimed that it is the “sole indisputable inheritor” of the Essequibo region and the Monetary Gold Principle.

Although Venezuela had claimed that the ICJ did not have jurisdiction to hear the substantive case, the country made a U-turn following the court’s December 2020 ruling on that aspect of the case. Venezuela on that occasion contended that Guyana had no standing in the matter.

Venezuela had argued that the United Kingdom was the proper party, since the territory was “given” to Guyana by the British. However, the ICJ found that Venezuela’s objection on the basis of the Monetary Gold principle is an objection to the exercise of the court’s jurisdiction and thus does not constitute an objection to jurisdiction.

Based on a thorough analysis of the facts and relevant legal precedents, the ‘World Court’ also found Venezuela’s preliminary objection is admissible on this ground.

The court found that in view of the above, the practice of the parties to the Geneva Agreement further demonstrates the two countries’ agreement that the dispute could be settled without the involvement of the United Kingdom.

“In light of the foregoing, the court concludes that, by virtue of being a party to the Geneva Agreement, the United Kingdom accepted that the dispute between Guyana and Venezuela could be settled by one of the means set out in Article 33 of the Charter of the United Nations and that it would have no role in that procedure. Under these circumstances, the Court considers that the Monetary Gold principle does not come into play in this case.

of Venezuela over its disagreement on the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Award.

Venezuela maintained that the ICJ was without jurisdiction to hear the case and refused to participate in the court proceedings.

In recapping the facts of the case on Thursday, Justice Donoghue said that in a December 18, 2020, 12-4 majority ruling, the court had upheld that it has jurisdiction to entertain Guyana’s contention concerning the validity of the award which concerns the frontier between British Guiana and Venezuela, and the related question of the definitive settlement of the land boundary.

The ICJ pointed out that both Guyana and Venezuela had agreed to the 1966 Geneva Agreement, which showed that both parties had accepted the possibility of the controversy being resolved by means of judicial settlement.

The ICJ judge said timelines were set for Guyana and Venezuela to file written pleadings on the merits of the case. Guyana met its March 8, 2022 deadline to submit its Memorial on the merits of its case to the court. Venezuela, on the other hand, submitted preliminary objections.

As a result, the ICJ allowed for such an objection to be lodged and considered by the court, and, as a consequence, the proceedings on the merits of the case were suspended until it ruled on that objection.

The Spanish-speaking country had

“It follows that even if the court, in its judgement on the merits, were called to pronounce on certain conduct attributable to the United Kingdom, which cannot be determined at present, this would not preclude the court from exercising its jurisdiction, which is based on the application of the Geneva Agreement. The preliminary objection raised by Venezuela must therefore be rejected,” Justice Donoghue said in her ruling.

The court unanimously rejected Venezuela’s objection and will move forward with the substantive case.

Guyana seeks to obtain a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award which establishes the location of the land boundary between the two countries, remains valid, and that the Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, not Venezuela.

Guyana was represented by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C.; Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira; Agent of Guyana in the case concerning the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, Carl Greenidge; Co-Agent and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper; Director of the Frontiers Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Donnette Streete; and Adviser to the Leader of the Opposition on Frontier matters, Ambassador Ronald Austin.

ICJ Judge Joan E. Donoghue

Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, S.C., and other members of the Guyana team

Mother of two sues Balwant

Singh’s Hospital for removing ovaries, cervix without consent

WONDER Kellman-Hall, a 45-year-old mother of two, has filed an almost $7 million lawsuit against Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital and one of their doctors for removing her ovaries and cervix without her consent during a medical procedure.

Kellman-Hall, a travel agent, is seeking damages in excess of $5 million from the hospital and Dr. Madhu Singh for negligence.

She is also seeking $659,500 in special damages along with exemplary and aggravated damages in excess of $1 million.

The lawsuit was filed by attorney-at-law Sanjeev Datadin and associates.

During the month of June 2021, she encountered medical problems, which she believed were connected to her reproductive organs and visited the city hospital.

The woman in her lawsuit claimed that after a consultation with Dr. Singh she was told that there were fibroids attached to her womb and she also had an umbilical hernia.

Following further consultation, and $650,500 later, it was agreed that Kellman-Hall would have to undergo two medical procedures: the removal of her womb and the hernia.

However, the woman said that she gave specific instructions that she did not want her ovaries and cervix removed during the surgeries, which the doctor was aware of.

On June 8, she signed a consent form at the hospital for the surgeries and expressly wrote on the consent form that she did not want her ovaries and cervix removed.

The next day she went under the knife and was discharged two days later.

Sometime after the surgeries, which were deemed successful, the claimant visited the hospital, but doctors did not indicate that they removed her cervix and both ovaries.

surgery; however, to date she has not received any.

In her court document, she said that her work, hobbies, social, recreational and other activities have been adversely affected since the surgeries.

In her court documents, the woman said that she returned to the hospital on August 23, 2022, for an ultrasound, and Dr. Singh advised her that everything was normal with her body.

With growing concern and sensing something was wrong, Kellman-Hall went to the Cancer Institute and had another ultrasound done.

It was there that the doctor delivered the shocking news that based upon the results of the ultrasound both of her ovaries and her cervix were removed.

“The claimant began experiencing various changes in her body, such as extreme sweating during the nights, pains when standing too long, hot flashes, chills, lack of energy, lack of concentration and changes in her mood. This severely affected the claimant’s ability to work at her job as a travel agent…” her court document said. She was also having problems sleeping.

She later visited the hospital where Dr. Singh reportedly explained to her that she had bleeding on one of her ovaries resulting in the removal.

The claimant later re-examined her hospital documents and noticed that the discharge diagnosis included a “TAH with Unilateral oophorectomy + B/L Salpingectomy” but she never consented to the latter two procedures.

She requested all of the documentation from the hospital concerning the

Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital

The claimant

Conducive environment for private investment being created

–– Finance Minister says

SENIOR Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has said that the government sees no reason to be apologetic for creating a conducive environment for private investment and growth.

Dr Singh made this remark during a recent ‘Thank you’ dinner hosted by Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Paul Cheong, where he noted that private investments play a significant role in the country’s economic

growth.

He went on to point out the scale, scope and speed with which Guyana’s economic landscape and business opportunities are changing. As such, the government was happy to have worked along with the PSC over the years, he added.

According to the finance minister, every year, he is tasked with reporting on Guyana’s growth in several areas.

He said that added that as much as he would love to lay claim to the achievements that are

reported, they are not exclusively achievements of the government.

“... Because our task is to simply create a conducive environment for

private investment and growth. They are in fact the collective achievements of the private sector of Guyana and I want to applaud Guyana’s private sector for your achievements over the last two years,” Dr Singh said.

He indicated that when it is said that the country’s economy has tripled or the nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is growing, that reflects the result of value-added products of the collective efforts of the private sector.

As such, the finance minister indicated that the government remains a committed partner and

friend of the private sector.

He said that while some criticise the government and the budgets that are presented as being “pro-business”, the President Irfaan Ali-led government sees no reason to be apologetic about doing so.

“Let me say emphatically that this government sees no reason to be apologetic about taking to parliament successive budgets that are pro-business and I go further to say that we see no contradiction or tension between pro-business and pro-people policies because there is nothing greater that

we can do for a citizen of this country than to create a job and put them in work to make them independent financially,” he expressed.

Dr Singh went on to add that along with this, the government will continue to have all the social safety nets in place to provide support to all other sections of society. However, for people of working age, he added that there could be no greater deed by any government than to create the conditions conducive to the creation of jobs, filling of same and the generation of incomes for citizens.

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

to Guyana’ short film screened in Italy

By Faith Greene

THE participants of a Guyana Film Festival workshop have proved that Guyanese are talented and have the potential to prosper in any part of the world.

With the assistance of British actor and filmmaker, Craig Talbot, who has been conducting a series of acting workshops in Guyana, the short film “Welcome to Guyana” was created.

“In a collaborative effort with Craig Talbot of Rollick Films in the UK and the Georgetown Film Festival, participants of one of our filmmaking series workshops created this film entirely with just minutes of rehearsal, and now it’s being screened in Italy in the Ivrea Film Screening! Love how the Georgetown Film Festival pushes local Guyanese talent to every part of the globe!” a post on the Guyana Film Festival Facebook page said. The film was screened sometime last month.

The Buzz recently had the opportunity to interview Talbot whose father is British-born but has Jamaican and Guyanese parentage. His mother is Jamaican.

Over the years, Talbot has made quite a name for himself in the film industry. Talbot under Rollick Films has produced films such as Montague (2017), Dead Drop (2019), The Psychic Medium (2020), and his most recent film, Twenty Quid Change (2022).

He recalled that filmmaking was a childhood dream. He began to take acting seriously when he was about 13 years old and from then he has not looked back.

According to him, it was from that tender age that he knew he wanted to act in films as this would take him

Craig Talbot

to many parts of the world. He has travelled to countries in Asia, America, Africa and the Caribbean.

“The older I’ve gotten, the more fire and passion is growing there. So it’s quite nice because it feels like I’m still living my childhood dream, which is great,” he said.

Talbot was born in the United Kingdom and his first visit to Guyana was in October, 2022, when he hosted an acting workshop at the Theatre Guild in Kingston.

The participants of the workshop, in collaboration with the British filmmaker and the Georgetown Film Festival, created the short film “Welcome to Guyana” which was directed by both Talbot and Guyanese filmmaker and director, Rae Wiltshire.

In talking about some of his challenges, the ‘Songs of Solitude’ filmmaker said that finding the right location, resources (camera equipment), and right amount of finances are the biggest trials any filmmaker would face..

“People are easy. You can network. You can find… Caribbean creatives and black creatives, but when it comes to resources and money, those are always the big challenges,” he noted. Furthermore, he emphasised that making films have been extremely beneficial to him, since he learns something new each time.

CREATING SOMETHING SPECIAL

Meanwhile, Talbot said that he started Rollick Films two years after he graduated

‘Welcome

— after British actor with Guyanese roots motivates local film enthusiasts

Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023 finalists revealed

‘Welcome to Guyana’...

From page 16

from Guildhall School of Music & Drama.

“When I graduated, I guess there was gap in the industry. The kind of work that I wanted to do, didn’t exist… so instead of complaining I thought I’d start to

create the work myself and hopefully the industry will catch up. It still hasn’t caught up yet, but it’s getting better. I founded Rollick to start making films and then from there it just kind of expanded. It definitely has been fulfilling every step, challenging but fulfilling”, he said.

Moreover, Talbot added that the film, “Milonga,” which he wrote, directed, acted in, and co-produced, was one of his most successful films, particularly because of the time and effort he put into perfecting it.

“I’d say because we put so much time into that film, when the results came back, and the response globally, especially people online, has made it all worth it.”

He further noted that the film was created during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the increase in people’s screen time resulted in the film’s success.

When asked about his plans to shoot another film locally, Talbot noted that he will be here for the Georgetown Film Festival this November. While here, he plans to film something longer than the “Welcome to Guyana” film.

“The making process is the most important. So it’s great to plan. It’s great to write scripts, watch YouTube videos, read books, but actually, the more you physically make, the more you learn. And I’ve been running a lot of workshops, especially online that Guyanese can get involved in which is making films on your smartphones.”

He encouraged persons interested in filming to start using their devices to record short films which will get longer overtime.

TEN beautiful women, each with her own unique qualities, will be competing for the Miss Guyana Culture Queen title when the pageant is held in June. Their identities were made public on April 2.

The finalists were selected following an application process which ended on February 28. The queen will represent Guyana at the Miss Caribbean Culture Queen pageant to be held in St Kitts and Nevis in August.

The local leg of the pageant is being organised by Randy Madray, a well-known Guyanese designer.

Following the launch of the pageant and a call for women between the ages of 18-26 to apply, Madray had told the Buzz that the Miss Guyana Culture Queen should embody the “Queen of Culture” title, and must be ready and equipped with the knowledge and talent to adequately showcase Guyana’s culture on a regional platform.

Madray acquired the franchise in 2019 and had selected Arian Dahlia Richmond to represent Guyana in the regional pageant. She secured the first runner-up spot and won several special prizes despite her short preparation time.

On the Miss Guyana Culture Queen Facebook page, details about each of the finalists were posted. That information as it appeared in the post is listed below.

Denica Henry: Is a 26-year-old Social Worker who is passionate about volunteering, assisting vulnerable groups, educating herself, and advocating for betterment.

Guyana can expect Denica to bring her unique style, passion and authenticity and have a Berbician take the title of Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023!

Jasmine Assanah: Is a 21-year-old Content

Creator who is passionate about promoting diversity through Performing Arts.

In her transition from ‘that girl to THIS woman’ Guyana can expect Jasmine to use this pageant as a stepping stone to learn more about her beautiful culture and educate others locally and regionally!

Kayla King: Is a 20-year-old Telemarketer studying Psychology at the University of Guyana. Her passion lies within behavioural sciences and she aspires to make significant strides where mental health awareness is concerned.

Guyana can expect to witness Kayla as her best self and be swooned by her charisma and passion.

Keri Duncan: Is a 23-year-old General Clerk in the Guyana Police Force and a student of the University of Guyana who is passionate about dance, animals and physiotherapy.

Guyana can expect a whole lot of confidence, assertiveness and flair from Keri throughout the Miss Guyana Culture Queen journey!

Lisa Hassan:

Is a 19-year-old Telemarketer who is passionate about women’s advocacy.

Guyana can expect consistency from Lisa, as she aims to make an impact on her people and make a change in whatever way she can, not only while in the pageant but even after.

Quissieana Odle: Is a 19-year-old student at the University of Guyana, reading for a Bachelor’s of Chemistry degree. She is passionate about advocating for mental health in the Caribbean.

Guyana can expect Quissieana to complete the mission of being a representation of dedication,

resilience and perseverance as portrayed by female leaders who are willing to inspire others.

Shemina Peroune: Is a 20-year-old Aeronautical Engineering student whose passion lies in advocating for women equity and empowerment, martial arts, volunteering at youth basketball in Guyana.

Guyana can expect Shemina to use this pageant to amplify her voice, as her focus is to become another one of Guyana’s ambassadors for change, cultural promotion and empowerment for all.

Siani Archer: Is a 23-year-old Advertising Assistant who is passionate about writing.

Guyana can expect a young vibrant woman who is willing to come out of her shell and stand firm for what she’s passionate about, as she uses this platform to champion the change she wants to see in her country and represent people like herself.

Tamasha Oxford: Is a 21-year-old 2nd year medical student and owner of Maisha’s Bakery who is passionate about baking, medicine and literature.

Guyana can expect Tamasha to bring her A game! She aims to bring authenticity, elegance and confidence with everything she does. Watch out for it!

Tamia Dodson: Is a 19-year-old student at the University of Guyana, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Optometry. Her passion now is solely focused on becoming a better version of herself.

Guyana can expect sass, beauty, confidence and intelligence from self-assured Tamia, who is ‘gunning’ for the title of Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023!

Denica Henry

Quissieana Odle

Jasmine Assanah

Shemina Peroune

Kayla King

Siani Archer

Keri Duncan

Tamasha Oxford

Lisa Hassan

Tamia Dodson

Dancehall competition to ‘spice up’ 2024 Mashramani celebration

COME next year, a new competition called ‘Dancehall Monarch’ will be added to the Mashramani calendar of events.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Ramson Jr said, recently, that the competition has been in the pipeline for some time.

According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), the decision to add this competition reflects the ministry’s commitment to expanding and improving the festival, which is a unique and important Guyanese product.

“The ministry is firmly committed to seeing the expansion of this unique Guyanese product which is Mashramani and we are looking forward to seeing it turn into a real world-class event,” he stated.

The addition of the

Dancehall competition is expected to make it even more exciting and vibrant.

“The question is why not? We know that Chutney is authentic Guyanese. As a matter of fact, it started in Guyana. Soca is…authentic West Indian [and] so is Calypso. What else is authentic West Indian?” the minister asked.

He said that government is committed to the expansion of the general Mashramani competition and modern representation of dancehall. The government’s commitment to the festival is a testament to its belief in the importance of cultural heritage and national pride.

Gyptian upbeat as Wine Slow gets recognition in the UK

WHEN singer Gyptian recorded the song Wine Slow in 2011 for producer Tarik “Rvssian” Johnston, little did he know that some 12 years later it would’ve gotten recognition in the United Kingdom.

Last Friday, Wine Slow was certified silver by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) for sales exceeding 200,000 units.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer, Gyptian said the accolade was unexpected.

“Wine Slow was one of two songs that I recorded for Rvssian on the Rio rhythm, and Wine Slow was the one that was released. Is a good

vibes to hear that your song has been certified in any country. You put een the work and eventually you get good results,” said Gyptian.

The Rio rhythm, released by Rvssian’s Head Concussion Records, also featured the songs Baby Girl by Erup and Keida, Out My Head by Hyah Slice, Leaving You Lonely by Jahmiel, Gal Dem Song by Konshens, Nuh Trust Dem by Voice Mail, and Warn Him by Vybz Kartel.

Said Gyptian: “The collaboration with Rvssian came about naturally. We were at the studio holding a vibes, which is a normal thing for us, and the collaboration link up right away.”

Gyptian is gearing up for the release of his fifth studio album for VP Records, titled Gyptian Love. Gal Bounce and Say You Willing To are the first singles that will be released.

Gyptian’s 2010 hit Hold Yuh was certified platinum in the United Kingdom for sales exceeding 600,000 units. It was also certified gold in the United States by the Recording Industry Association of America.

He won the MOBO Award for Best Reggae Act (2010) and the Soul Train Music Award for Best Reggae Artiste (2010). (Jamaica Observer)

Revellers enjoying Mashramani 2023

Gyptian

Dwayne Johnson says a live-action version of ‘Moana’ is in the works

WALT Disney Co (DIS.N) is developing a live-action version of its animated movie hit “Moana,” star Dwayne Johnson announced at the company’s annual shareholder meeting which was held earlier this week.

“Moana” is set in ancient Polynesia and tells the story of a teenage girl who sets sail on an epic journey to help save her tribe.

The animated version was released in 2016 and racked up nearly $683 million at global box offices.

“I’m deeply humbled and overcome with gratitude to bring the beautiful story of Moana to the live-action big screen,” said Johnson, who voiced the role of the demigod Maui in the original film.

“This story is my culture, and this story is emblematic of our people’s grace and warrior strength,” said Johnson, whose mother is Samoan.

The actor said the new movie was in the early stages of development. No release date was announced. (Reuters)

Ben Affleck hopes to score Michael Jordan’s approval for film ‘Air’

ACTOR Ben Affleck is hopeful for basketball legend Michael Jordan’s seal of approval after directing the biographical sports film, “Air,” which is based on Jordan’s historic deal with the Nike (NKE.N) shoe brand.

Despite glowing reviews from critics and audiences since its world premiere at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March, the retired Chicago Bull’s verdict on the movie still is not in.

The movie premiered on Wednesday in theatres and will later stream on Amazon. com Inc’s (AMZN.O) Prime Video.

A representative for Jordan did not respond to a request for comment about the film.

“I certainly wouldn’t be comfortable with promoting the movie any further by assigning Michael’s vote of

approval to it,” Affleck told Reuters. “I will tell you that every step was taken along the way to make sure that he had every option available to him because of the respect that we have for him.”

The cast of “Air” includes “Good Will Hunting” actor Matt Damon, who produced the movie and portrays the real-life former sports marketing executive, Sonny Vaccaro. Affleck plays Nike co-founder Phil Knight and “The Woman King” actor Viola Davis portrays Jordan’s mother, Deloris Jordan.

The movie is the first from Affleck and Damon’s new production company, Artists Equity, which aims to ensure both cast and crew benefit from the film’s profits.

There was one key role that Affleck and Damon decided not to fill, and it was

Michael Jordan’s.

“The second you put the camera on an actor and say ‘Hey, it’s Michael Jordan’ and it’s not Michael Jordan, you’re going to lose the audience, so we knew. Michael’s just too famous and means too much to people to try to have someone else play him in a movie,” Damon said.

Instead of casting an actor to try filling Jordan’s shoes, “Air” shows small snippets of the athlete’s presence, including intercut footage of his playing career at the end.

The film explores the origins of the popular Air Jordan basketball shoe line in the 1980s that captured Jordan’s black silhouette jumping with a ball in his hand on every shoe, eventually becoming a staple in both the fashion and sports industries. (Reuters)

Actor Dwayne Johnson poses at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana” as a part of AFI Fest in Hollywood, California, U.S. on November 14, 2016 (REUTERS/ Danny Moloshok)

Chris Messina, Marlon Wayans, Ben Affleck, Viola Davis, Matt Damon, Julius Tennon, Jason Bateman, and Chris Tucker attend the world premiere of “AIR” at Regency Village Theatre in Los Angeles, California, U.S. on March 27, 2023 (REUTERS/Lauren Justice)

FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy makes a stop in Jamaica

THE FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour

2023 will make a stop in Jamaica on April 17. The prestigious trophy will be on display at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston and later that day, it will be taken on a road tour of Montego Bay and then make its final stop at the Holiday Inn Hotel before continuing on its journey to another of the countries that have qualified for the tournament.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour 2023 is on its journey to each of the 32 qualified

East Coast are Tiger Rentals...

From page 28

heartfelt thanks to everyone that helped made the tournament a success, especially the sponsors, Tiger Rentals Guyana, that invested over $10m. He made special mention of the referees, players, parents, coaches

and coaching mentor, Sampson Gilbert.

Joseph further revealed the exciting news that there will be a three-day festival next week beginning on the 14th. The festival will feature

April 17

countries – the largest FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour to date!

Guests will be supporting this Trophy Tour’s campaign, Going Beyond: with a mission to inspire, coach and spotlight future female football talent of all levels and backgrounds, building unprecedented global excitement and support ahead of the tournament’s kick-off in July. (Sportsmax)

Kelly scores...

Lauren James had a goal disallowed for offside with the Euro 2022 winners firmly on top, but it was a different story following the interval.

England gave Brazil every opportunity to get back into the game with a string of mistakes, one of which resulted in Earps palming a shot from Geyse high into the air and against the top of the crossbar.

Pia Sundhage's side continued to probe and they were rewarded when Earps spilled a cross from the right to gift Andressa an equaliser with time running out.

With no extra time, England recovered from that setback to come out on top in the shootout, Toone the only Lionesses player who was unable to find the back of the net with her penalty before Kelly drilled in the winner to make it 30 games without defeat under Sarina Wiegman.(Sportsmax)

the top teams of the inter-association playing alongside Regions 1, 2 & 9 in a group round-robin format to determine the Tiger Rentals under-13 football initiative National champions.

Regional Under-15 wins for T&T, Guyana and Leewards

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Results of the second round of matches in the West Indies Rising Stars Under-15 Championship here Thursday:

Scores:

At Liberta Sports Club: T&T won by seven wickets.

WINDWARD ISLANDS

71 all out off 18.4 overs (Earsinho Fontaine 23; Brendan Boodoo 3-9, Yasir Deen 3-9)

RACING TIPS

American Racing Tips

Gulfstream Park

Race 1 Tovia

Race 2 A J's Memory

Race 3 Super Royal Moon

Race 4 Stake A Claim

Race 5 Cape Cod

Race 6 Appraisal

Race 7 West Bank

TRINIDAD AND TO -

BAGO 73 for three off 11.5 overs (Brendan Boodoo 21; Leon Alexander 2-11)

At Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium: Guyana won by (N/A)

GUYANA 121 off 42.2 overs (Romario Ramdeholl

54 not out; Nicoli McKenzie

4-25, Demarco Scott 3-25)

JAMAICA 96 off 32.1 overs (Tyson Gordon 23;

Dhanesh Persaud 2-6, Dave Mohabir 2-19)

At Coolidge Cricket

Ground: Leewards won by four wickets (DLS)

BARBADOS 129 off 41.4 overs (Seth Smith 23; Kunal Tilokani 4-17, Amoree Jones 3-19)

LEEWARD ISLANDS

78 for six off 18 overs (Akobi Crichlow-Byer 2-13)

12:50 hrs Don't Look Back Wolverhampton

12:30 hrs Master Grey

13:00 hrs Barwick Law

13:30 hrs Think Champagne

14:00 hrs Eligible

14:30 hrs Storymaker

15:00 hrs Mustaffiz

15:30 hrs City Escape

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday April 07, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Deccan Chargers RCB

Today’s Quiz:

Who was voted Man of the Match in the 2009 IPL final?

Who was declared Man of the Tournament in IPL 2009?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy

Tector, Tucker and McBrine defy Bangladesh

LORCAN Tucker led Ireland's resistance against Bangladesh in the Dhaka Test, batting out the third day after starting it on 27 for 4. Tucker became the second Irishman to score a century on Test debut, and the sixth wicketkeeper to do so, as his 108 involved two sizeable partnerships to keep them in the hunt. Ireland ended on 286 for 8, when everyone thought that Test would end early on the third day.

(Scores: Ireland 214 and 286 for 8 (Tucker 108, McBrine 71*, Tector 56, Taijul 4-86, Shakib 2-26) lead Bangladesh 369 (Mushfiqur 126, Shakib 87, Mehidy 55, McBrine 6-118) by 131 runs

The visitors' 131-run lead may not look impressive but they have done enough to put questions in Bangladesh's mind. The home side doesn't have a great chasing record at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, where they haven't won since 2020.

Taijul Islam was the pick of the bowlers again, taking his tally to nine wickets in the match, but Shakib bowling just six overs in the day was a peculiar decision given that he looked fit and fielded all day.

Tucker defied the Bangladesh spinners superbly. His celebration after reaching the hundred got cheers from the tiny crowd who appreciated the young batter's century. His 111-run stand with Andy McBrine for the seventh wicket frustrated Bangladesh for 28.3 overs, as Ireland put together a string of partnerships.

The visitors had started the day on 27 for 4 after their top order crumbled in 6.5 overs on the second evening. Shakib and Taijul shared those four wickets and looked menacing. But PJ Moor and Tector negated them for 10.1 overs late on the second day, before continuing in the same vein on the third morning.

Litton dropped Tector on nine in the second over of the day, but that was the only chance that went down. Tector and Moor lasted 25.4 overs for the fifth wicket and though they added only 38, it served as the foundation

for the rest of the day. Moor fell to the one shot he played away from his body, edging Shoriful Islam at the end of the first hour. Tector and Tucker picked up the tempo with some fine shots. Tucker started with

a reverse-swept four off Mehidy Hasan Miraz, before Tector cracked a cover drive off Shoriful. Tucker then played two pulls against Ebadot Hossain, before launching Khaled over midwicket with a flick.

Tector's last boundary was a straight drive before he fell for 56, having struck seven fours and a six in his 159ball innings.

Their partnership had lasted 24 overs, and they added 72 at three runs per over. It was the boost that Ireland needed, and McBrine and Tucker took that momentum forward.

Ireland scored 106 in the middle session, during which Tucker reached his hundred with a cover drive off Taijul. Tucker finally got out when he drove Ebadot waywardly to cover, where Shoriful let out a huge roar after taking the catch. But Ireland weren't done yet. McBrine reached his maiden fifty, adding another 31 runs for the eighth wicket with Mark Adair.

Even the way the day ended - the ninth-wicket pair of McBrine and Graham Hume batting out the remaining 8.3 overs - will encourage Ireland to have a go at Bangladesh on the fourth day.(Cricinfo)

Milwaukee Bucks take top seed in Eastern Conference by beating Chicago Bulls

consecutive win over their local rivals.

Both are already guaranteed a play-in place, but the fifth-placed Clippers fifth and seventh-placed Lakers could still clinch play-off spots with two games remaining.

forward Giannis Antetokounmpo because of a sore knee and lost Khris Middleton early on to another knee issue, but won 105-92.

It means they will have home advantage in four of the seven games throughout the play-offs, which begin next week.

The Boston Celtics clinched second spot by beating the Toronto Raptors.

They won 97-93 despite being without Jayson Tatum, Marcus Smart and Al Horford, with Malcolm Brogdon coming off the bench to score a game-high 29 points.

In the Western Conference, the New Orleans Peli-

cans beat the Memphis Grizzlies 138-131 to seal a spot in the play-in tournament.

The top six places in each conference go straight into the play-offs with seventh to 10th trying to qualify through the play-in tournament.

The Dallas Mavericks moved up to a tie for 10th with a 123-119 win over the Sacramento Kings.

Kyrie Irving scored 31 points, Luka Doncic 29 and Tim Hardaway Jr 24 as the Mavericks moved level with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

he Los Angeles Clippers moved closer to the play-offs by beating the Los Angeles Lakers 125-118 - their 11th

In the Eastern Conference, the Brooklyn Nets are sixth after beating the Detroit Pistons 123-108. The Nets need one win from their final two games, or a defeat for the Miami Heat, to secure sixth spot.

Elsewhere, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes and Obi Toppin became the first trio of New York Knicks players to score 30 points in the same game in more than 44 years in their victory against the Indiana Pacers.

Quickley scored 39 points, Grimes 36 and Toppin 32 to replicate the feat by Earl Monroe, Ray Williams and Toby Knight in the Knicks' loss to Chicago in 1979.

The Knicks, currently fifth and already guaranteed a place in the play-offs, won 138-129. (BBC Sport)

Lorcan Tucker celebrates his ton with Andy McBrine • (BCB)

THE Milwaukee Bucks secured their place as top seed in the Eastern Conference for the NBA play-offs by beating the Chicago Bulls. The Bucks were without

The Milwaukee Bucks will have home advantage throughout the play-offs

Williamson set to miss ODI World Cup after IPL knee injury

KANE Williamson, New Zealand's ODI captain, is set to miss the World Cup in India later this year after being diagnosed with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee after he was injured in his first IPL match of the season for Gujarat Titans.

Williamson returned to New Zealand in recent days where the severity of the injury was confirmed and he will now undergo surgery within the next three weeks once the swelling around the knee has reduced.

"Naturally it's disappointing to get such an injury, but my focus now is on having the surgery and starting rehab," he said. "It's going to take some time, but I'll be doing everything I can to get back on the field as soon as

possible."

Williamson had landed awkwardly - with his right knee buckling under his weight - while attempting a catch at the deep square leg boundary in the 13th over of Super Kings' innings when he had leapt to intercept a ball headed for six from Ruturaj Gaikwad. He managed

to save two runs, palming the ball into the field of play before it bounced onto the boundary boards, but by that point Williamson was on the ground clutching his right knee.

Williamson's absence from the World Cup would be a huge blow for New Zealand. He averages 47.83

across 161 ODIs with 13 centuries.

"You take Kane the player for a start, but then Kane the leader and the person he is within our group as well, it's a huge spanner in the works for us," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said. "We haven't given up hope that he might be right but at this stage it does look unlikely. Our first thoughts are with Kane at the moment, it's a tough time for him, it's not an injury you expect…it hits you pretty hard."

Tom Latham has captained New Zealand in the absence of Williamson this year, and will lead the ODI squad on the upcoming tour of Pakistan, and could be the frontrunner for the World Cup role. (Cricinfo)

Chelsea name ex-manager Frank Lampard as boss until end of season

Frank Lampard says he will "focus on the job in hand" after being named Chelsea's caretaker manager, rather than trying to land the role full-time.

Lampard has completed a surprise return to Chelsea for the rest of the season, replacing the sacked Graham Potter. The club say Lampard will take charge while they carry out an "exhaustive process" to find a permanent boss.

"I want to do the best possible role I can and after that we will see what happens," the 44-year-old said.

"I am not getting anywhere ahead of myself."

Lampard, who has been out of a job since he was dismissed by Everton in January, previously managed Chelsea from July 2019 until he was sacked in January 2021.

His first game will be away to Wolves in the Premier League on Saturday before a Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Lampard was a player at Stamford Bridge when interim boss Roberto di Matteo led the club to Champions

Warner given no assurances by Bailey over Ashes place

Australia national selector George Bailey says there are no guarantees David Warner will face England in the Ashes.

Warner's place at the top of the order in the Test side is under threat after he failed in all four innings against India in February before his tour was cut short due to injury.

how the team's going, the results of the first couple of Ashes Tests, what the brand of cricket looks like and an opportunity to review any changes that will need to be made.

Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris and Matt Renshaw are alternative options to open along with Usman Khawaja.

behind fourth-placed Manchester United, despite having spent more than £550m on new players this season.

Announcing Lampard's appointment, co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said: "We want to provide the club and our fans with a clear and stable plan for the remainder of the season.

"We want to give ourselves every chance of success and Frank has all of the characteristics and qualities we need to drive us to the finish line."

seven major signings, including current players Ben Chilwell and Kai Havertz, he could not replicate the early promise and was sacked by previous owner Roman Abramovich with the club ninth in the Premier League, having won only two of their previous eight games.

He was replaced by Thomas Tuchel, who led Chelsea to victory in the Champions League final four months later.

Head coach Andrew McDonald stated that Warner is fully in Australia's plans for the World Test Championship final at The Oval early in June, which is followed by the battle for the urn with Ben Stokes' side.

Yet Bailey stressed that the 36-year-old is not a certainty for the five-match series against England.

Bailey said: "I agree with [Western Australia coach] Adam Voges, he said post the [Sheffield Shield] final that he thinks Cam Bancroft is batting as well as he's ever seen.

"I think we'd agree with that as a panel as well, so really excited by the form that he's in and really glad he's over in England playing.

League glory as a caretaker before earning the job on a full-time basis.

Asked if he could follow a similar path, the former midfielder said: "It won't be my decision so again I don't want to jump forward to that.

"I understand I will get asked that question a lot. I have my eyes wide open. The important thing for me is to park that and focus on the job in hand."

Chelsea are 11th in the Premier League, 14 points

An 'easy' decision to return - Lampard Lampard, who scored 211 goals in 648 games at Chelsea, said it was an "easy decision" to return.

"This is my club," he said. "[I have] a lot of emotional feelings towards the club."

In his previous managerial spell, Lampard took over with the Blues under a transfer embargo but guided them to a fourth-place finish and the FA Cup final in his first season in charge.

After spending £200m the following summer on

After being sacked by Chelsea, Lampard was named Everton boss in January 2022.

He guided them to safety from relegation last season but was removed eight days shy of his one-year anniversary in the role after nine defeats in 12 Premier League games this campaign.

Lampard was at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday for Chelsea's 0-0 draw with Liverpool, when Bruno Saltor was in charge.

"I know there is a lot of talent in this squad," he said. "I am excited to work with that talent and help them. That's why I'm here." (BBC Sport)

He said: "We're three formats across all of those contracts. Trying to fit that in is first and foremost, the job. But I think Dave, like any player is, is at the mercy of selection.

"The Ashes is a huge series. And we'll be looking to pick our best team. We're going to have to have our best team playing incredibly well too, to challenge England over there the way they're playing."

Australia could make changes to their squad after the second Test against England.

Bailey added: "We'll have more information on

"Matt was putting a really compelling case at the top of the order as well early on in the year for Queensland then by virtue of being away in India didn't get much of an opportunity in the back half of the year.

"Not being rude to Usman or Dave, but there's no doubt those two are probably closer to the end than start of their careers, so we are going to need some depth and needing all three of those guys performing really well for us. Hopefully they make our decisions incredibly challenging over next little while."(Sportsmax).

He has suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and will undergo surgery in around three weeks

Kane Williamson had to be helped off after falling awkwardly on his right leg and damaging his knee

Frank Lamaprd will return to Chelsea for the rest of the season

Veteran Australia Test opener David Warner

No DRS as teams battle it out for final two World Cup spots

..The qualifying tournament to be held in Zimbabwe in June-July is the final stepping stone for teams still in contention for the 2023 ODI World Cup

By Firdose Moonda

THERE will be no DRS system in place for this year's 50-over World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe in June-July, but the ICC has confirmed to ESPNcricinfo that there will be a third umpire monitoring run-outs.

The absence of DRS mirrors the 2019 World Cup qualifiers, also held in Zimbabwe in March 2018, but is an improvement on the availability of a third umpire. In 2018, the third umpire was deployed in only 10 of the 34 matches - those that were televised.

The 2023 edition will see a third umpire available for all games but there will be no other review tools, such as UltraEdge or ball-tracking, which may be a concern for teams considering how the 2018 tournament played out.

West Indies and Afghanistan advanced to the 2019 World Cup in England, but not without controversy. West Indies booked their places after beating Scotland by five runs in a rain-reduced encounter which saw Scotland's face a reduced target of 131 in 32.5 overs. They were well-placed on 105 for 4

in the 32nd over when Richie Berrington was given out lbw to an Ashley Nurse delivery that looked to be sliding down leg. With no DRS, Berrington could not review. There was also no DRS at the just-concluded Cricket World Cup Qualifier Playoff in Windhoek, Namibia, where the standard of umpiring was under scrutiny in several games. Namibian captain Gerhard Erasmus responded to a Twitter user who commented on a decision made in the match between Jersey and the USA, saying associate teams were made to "eat last" when it came to officiating.

Namibia finished third in the tournament and will not compete in the World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe.

This year's 10-team World Cup Qualifying tournament will take place in Zimbabwe between June 18 and July 9. It includes the five teams who finished at the bottom of the World Cup Super League (Netherlands, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, West Indies and one of Ireland or South Africa), the top three teams from the ICC's World Cup Cricket League 2 (Nepal, Oman and Scotland) and the two teams from the Qualifier Playoff (USA and UAE) that was completed in

Namibia this week. The top two teams from the qualifier will advance to the ten-team field at this year's 50-over World Cup. The ICC has confirmed that the 2027 and 2031 editions of the showpiece event will be expanded to 14 teams.

DRS was introduced by the ICC in 2009 (called the Umpire Decision Review System or UDRS back then) and is funded by host broadcasters outside of World Cup events, which means that not every country makes use of it. It has been used in 50-over World Cups since 2011. (Cricinfo)

Contrasting fates for Russell, Narine as KKR win

KOLKATA, India, (CMC)

–

Superstar Andre Russell suffered the indignity of a firstball ‘duck’ but his West Indies counterpart Sunil Narine picked up a brace of wickets in an outstanding four-over spell of off-spin, as Kolkata Knight

Riders won their first game of the new Indian Premier League season here Thursday.

Playing against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Eden Gardens, KKR rallied to an impressive 204 for seven off their 20 overs, courtesy of half-centuries from Shardul Thakur (68) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (57).

Russell, however, picked out long off with his first delivery from leg-spinner Karn Sharma (2-26) to perish in the 12th over.

In reply, RCB tumbled to 123 all out in the 18th over to give KKR a crushing 81-run win, compensating for their opening loss to Punjab Kings last weekend.

Sent in, KKR’s start was less than stellar, the hosts stumbling to 47 for three at the start of the seventh over before the recovery came through Rahmanullah and Rinku Singh (46), the pair

posting 42 for the fourth wicket.

Rahmanullah blasted half-dozen fours and three sixes from 44 deliveries but was one of two wickets to perish in the 12th to leave the innings tottering on 89 for five, when Russell was dismissed.

But Shardul arrived to pummel nine fours and three sixes

in a 29-ball cameo, inspiring a 103-run, sixth wicket stand with Rinku, who counted two fours and three sixes off 33-balls, as KKR rallied at the back end.

Facing a difficult run chase, RCB started well through captain Faf du Plessis (23) and Virat Kohli (21), the pair putting on 44 off 29 balls for the first wicket.

However, once Narine bowled Kohli with the fifth ball of his spell, RCB’s innings went into terminal decline, with only number eight David Willey (20 not out), top order batsman Michael Bracewell (19) and last man Akash Deep (17) reaching double figures thereafter.

Roach spectators as Yorkshire, Surrey flourish

Hope,

LONDON, (CMC) – Neither Shai Hope nor Kemar Roach saw action on the opening day of the English County Championship, the West Indies stars forced to watch as their respective sides turned in strong batting performances.

Fast bowler Kemar Roach.

Hope, who joined Yorkshire for their first three matches, was not required as the hosts gathered 285 for three against Leicestershire at Leeds in Division Two, with rookie opener Finlay Bean hitting 118 and England batsman Dawid Malan finishing unbeaten on 91. Bean, a 20-year-old right-hander in only his fourth first class appearance, struck 19 fours in a breezy 149ball maiden first class hundred, putting on 69 for the second wicket with James Wharton (24) and 165 for the third wicket with Malan, who has faced 127 balls and counted 13 fours.

Hope, fresh from captaining West Indies on the one-day tour of South Africa, is down to bat next.

At Old Trafford in Manchester, Roach was also not required to bat as visitors Surrey rattled up an impressive 340 for seven after being sent in by hosts Lancashire in the Division One contest.

The innings stuttered on 77 for four at one stage before Cameron Steel (86 not out), England’s Ben Foakes (76) and Jamie Smith (54) all struck half-centuries to lead the revival.

The 34-year-old Roach is with Surrey for a third straight season after helping them to win the title last season by taking 25 wickets in seven matches.

Hope, meanwhile, is in his first stint for Yorkshire and will have fond memories of Headingley where he became the first batsman to score a hundred in both innings of a first class game, in the second Test of West Indies tour of England six years ago.

A decision has been taken on whether we'll have the DRS at the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe • IDI via Getty Images

Sunil Narine (left) celebrates after bowling Virat Kohli on Thursday. (Photo courtesy IPL)

Windies batter Shai Hope is in his first stint for Yorkshire

GCB Women’s Inter-County 50-over tourney

Player of the Match Munisar spins Berbice to 6-wicket win over Essequibo

By Sean Devers

IN hot conditions at Bourda, defending Champions Berbice, led by their off-spin pair of Ashmini Munisar and Plaffiana Millington, along with a wellplayed 31 from Katana Mentore, defeated Essequibo by six wickets yesterday in the second round of the Guyana Cricket Board’s(GCB) Women’s 50-over Inter-County cricket.

Only 24-year-old Nefeeza Sabar with an unbeaten 20 from 61 balls offered resistance for the Essequibians before she ran out of partners, after spending an hour and 17 minutes at the crease.

Extras top scored with 27 which included 17 wides as West Indies U-19 Captain Munisar captured 4-7 from eight overs and along with National player Millington (3-15 from 10 overs) conspired to befuddle the Essequibo batters as the team from Guyana’s largest county were dismissed for 84.

Berbice, in reply, reached 87-4 in 19.3 overs as Mentore led the way with 31 from 36 balls after reaching the boundary thrice in her 42-minute innings.

Laurene Williams picked up two wickets for Essequibo who suffered their second loss after losing to Demerara at Everest on Tuesday.

When Berbice commenced their chase of the small target, Realeana Grimmond (12) was lbw to Sabar on the stroke of Lunch which was taken with pre-tournament favourites on 19-1.

After the interval, Marian Samaroo pulled Analesia D’Aguiar for four and together with Mentore who executed some lovely drives, saw the 50 posted in nine overs.

The 42-run stand was broken at 61 when Samaroo (13) was removed by National player Kumarie Persaud who had four wickets against Demerara.

Sheneta Grimmond hit a boundary in her nine runs and put together 18 with Mentore, who pulled West Indies U-19 pacer Cyanna Retemiah for four.

But Williams removed both batters in the space of five runs to leave the score on 84-4.

The two quick wickets prompted celebrations from the Essequibo supporters in the fair size gathering which included National selectors, Peter Persuad and Norwayne Fredericks, who has been present at every Inter-County game so far.

Williams’ quick strikes were too little too late as Munisar’s (5) boundary give Berbice, with five National U-19 and several National senior players in

the line-up, an emphatic win.

Earlier, playing at a venue which hosted 30 Tests, including the West Indies’ first victory in 1930, Essequibo won the toss and opted to bat on a track tailor made for batting and a lighting fast outfield.

Navina Narine and Williams provided Essequibo with a solid, if slow, 26 runs opening partnership before Millington removed Narine in the 13th over.

West Indies left-arm fast bowler, Erva Giddings dismissed D’Aguiar (7) at 38-2 before 23-year-old Millington bowled Varuni Pitamber (7) while Williams (8) was bowled by Munisar as two wickets toppled at 41.

Nobody else stayed with Sabar to build any significant partnership as Sabar fought a lone battle. With the score on 54-7 and with Munisar, the lass from the Canje Community Centre Club, in full flight, it seemed as if Essequibo would not reach 60.

However, Sabar found a useful ally with the intervention of Di -

vine Ross (4) and the pair added 16 in a frustrating eight-wicket stand before Sheneta Grimmond removed Ross at 70-8.

The last two wickets fell in the space of five runs as Munisar returned

to trap last batter, Roxanne Hendricks (1), lbw, to end the innings.

Sunday’s clash between Berbice and Demerara at Bourda is a virtual final since the winner will lift the Championship

Trophy.

Berbice are expected to successfully defend their title especially since Shakibi Gajnabi is expected to return in time for that encounter.

West Indies Under-19 captain Ashmini Munisar grabbed 4 for 7 from 8 overs

Katana Mentore pulls for four in her top score of 31 for Berbice yesterday(Sean Devers photos)

East Coast are Tiger Rentals Under-13 champions!

By Calvin Chapman

THE inter-association Tiger

Rentals Under-13 Development football league concluded yesterday at the National Training CentRE (NTC), Providence, where East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) thumped East Berbice 6-1 to emerge champions of this inaugural and significant competition that kicked off last December.

The diminutive but skillful Isiah Williams was on fire for the champions, netting four times in the rout while Shakeil Callendar and Mark Glasgow

both beat the keeper once. Rayon Captain netted the consolation goal for East Berbice.

East Coast and Georgetown entered the final matchday tied on points with East Coast boasting a much superior goal difference but Vurlon Mills’ Georgetown side that needed to win, didn’t do themselves any favours during their 3-1 loss to Devnon Winter’s East Bank side.

Jason Williams, Michael Correia and Nyul George all netted once for East Bank while Enzo Matte scored the consolation for Georgetown that eventually finished in second place.

Kelly scores another Wembley winner to seal Finalissima triumph

CHLOE Kelly sealed another trophy for England as Brazil were beaten 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the inaugural Women's Finalissima at Wembley on Thursday.

Head coach of East Coast, Anthony Benfield, posited during the presentation that he was “extremely proud” of his team and the coaching staff. “We believed that we could’ve won and we put in the hard work that is needed and we are grateful to have triumphed in this important tournament, which not only helps develop the youths but the coaches’ capacity.”

Technical Director of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Bryan Joseph, expressed during the simple but significant presentation ceremony, his

Continued on page 23

Ella Toone finished off a slick first-half move to give the Lionesses a deserve lead in the showdown between the European champions and the Copa America Femenina winners.

Brazil were the better side after the break and Andressa Alves capitalised on a stoppage-time mistake from goalkeeper Mary Earps to force spot-kicks.

England were not to be denied, though, as Georgia Stanway, Rachel Daly, Alex Greenwood and Kelly –who scored the winner in the Euro 2022 final against

Germany at the same venue - converted from 12 yards out.

Earps denied Tamires before captain Rafaelle Souza rattled the crossbar as Brazil endured shootout agony in front of a huge crowd of 83.132.

The marauding Lucy Bronze caused the Canarinhas all sorts of problems in the first half and she

played a big part in the opening goal in the 23rd minute.

Bronze played a onetwo with Stanway before picking out Toone, who slotted home with her right foot from inside the penalty area in the 23rd minute as Brazil were cut open by England's sharp passing and movement.

Continued on page 23

The victorious East Coast team pose with the Tiger Rentals C/Ship trophy. (Delano Williams photo)

East Coast’s goal scorers, Isaiah Williams, Mark Glasgow and Shakeil Callendar (Delano Williams Photo)

East Coast’s Shakeil Callendar (right) puts in a challenge during his side’s 6-1 win over East Berbice (Delano Williams photo)

England goalkeeper Mary Earps saved a penalty in the shootout victory