Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 08-01-2024

MONDAY 8th January, 2024

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Sod turned for modern US$161M New Amsterdam hospital VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107317

–– facility to be linked to other regional medical institutions through telemedicine PAGE

–– quality of care and service must match the level of investments being made, President Ali says 03

Set to be equipped with all modern facilities to conduct transplants and other major surgeries, the modern Level Five hospital in New Amsterdam, Region Six, will soon be available to residents, as construction will commence soon given that the sod was turned for the medical institution on Sunday (Delano Williams photos)

‘Face the facts!’

‘Our promises are 05 Local content legislation sacred; we work every to be examined to pay 09 –– APNU responsible for decline day to fulfil them’ of Linden, President Ali says 02 special attention to PWDs –– highlights wave of development, wPAGE

w PAGE

PAGE

gov’t investment in region

–– VP Jagdeo affirms; defends gradual approach to free university education

–– exposes APNU’s broken promises

–– President Ali says

Region 10 well positioned to become major centre for investment 06 PAGE

‘Face the facts!’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

–– APNU responsible for decline of Linden, President Ali says

–– highlights wave of development, gov’t investment in the region

By Clestine Juan DURING its five years in government, the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) made little or no investment in Linden— a significant stronghold of the party— putting thousands on the breadlines due to its poor planning and policies, according to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. President Ali, during a recent signing ceremony for the US$35 million Mackenzie/ Wismar Bridge, said that Lindeners must hold the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)-led APNU accountable for the downturn whilst it was in government.

Examining the period 2015-2020, he said that due to the coalition’s lack of foresight and poor decision-making, essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure deteriorated during those five years.

He highlighted the transformative strides undertaken by the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government to rectify past wrongs and outlined the transformative strides made under the current government.

President Ali commenced his address by presenting a stark reality – the decline that unfolded during the APNU’s tenure in Linden.

“In May 2015, when the PPP/C demitted office, bauxite was being produced in both Linden and the Berbice River, with two major international companies, BOSAI and RUSAL, operating the mines at those two locations,” he said.

The President didn’t mince words, pointing out the consequence of five years of APNU governance.

“During the course of the five years of the last government, more than 1,000 workers lost their jobs in this industry,” he said.

The decline was palpable, with bauxite production grinding to a halt, leaving thousands unemployed.

LINDEN’S RESURGENCE Contrasting the bleak scenario left by the APNU, President Ali transitioned to the resurgence initiated by his government upon assuming office.

“Today, only after three years of assuming office, the PPP/C is once again working to attract and retain investors in bauxite,” he

proudly announced.

The President highlighted the tangible signs of progress, citing the recent commissioning of a new US$120 million kiln at Linden.

“In three years, we brought back the confidence that one investor invested US$120 million,” he declared.

The President underscored the launch of the MAZ (Metallurgical Grade Bauxite) project, promising 500 new jobs in Linden.

INVESTMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES President Ali backed his words with comprehensive data, focusing on key sectors. Urban roads, which languished during the APNU era, became a priority for the current administration.

“In five years, investing $289 million, 85 per cent of which came after the no-confidence motion, against a government in three years, a government that you did not overwhelmingly vote for, invested $3 billion in you,” the President stated, revealing a stark contrast in developmental strategies.

The President delved into specific proj-

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, with his evidence in hand while talking to Lindeners ects, like the new US$35 million Mackenzie/ See page 4

Sod turned for modern US$161M New Amsterdam hospital 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

–– facility to be linked to other regional medical institutions through telemedicine –– quality of care and service must match the level of investments being made, President Ali says

By Naomi Parris

SET to be equipped with all modern facilities to conduct transplants and other major surgeries, the modern Level Five hospital in New Amsterdam, Region Six, will soon be available to residents, as construction will commence soon given that the sod was turned for the medical institution on Sunday.

Addressing a mammoth gathering of citizens, healthcare workers and regional officials, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, said that the US$161 million hospital will be a major hub linking both the regional and countrywide healthcare facilities.

“This hospital in Region six is expected to be the hub and everything around it will be the mechanisms. We will have all the specialists and they will all be connected through telemedicine to every other facility in this region whether in Canje Creek or Baracara wherever you are; those health centers and hospitals will be connected to this hospital through telemedicine,” the Head of State said.

Once completed, the new facility will be linked to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) which will be connected to Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and other major hospitals around the world in telemedicine.

Dr. Ali told residents that the goal is to provide optimum health care services to the general public.

This major investment, he said, coincides with several other upgrades to critical infrastructure in the region.

The President stressed the importance of humaneness and service in medicine, urging the Ministry of Health and those within the health sector to prioritise improving care and service quality to match investments.

He highlighted that there are three key components of the healthcare sector: Qual-

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali addresses the gathering at the sod turning ceremony for the US$161 million New Amsterdam Hospital, on Sunday (Delano Williams photo)

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and other officials turn the sod for the US$161 million New Amsterdam Hospital, on Sunday (Delano Williams photo) ity of infrastructure, quality of care and the quality of service. And while the government has been making the investments to improve the infrastructure, the two latter components have been lacking within the system.

“Right now, we’re fixing the quality of infrastructure investing in more beds, investing in the X-ray machines and investing in the infrastructure, building all

the facilities. That’s all well and good. You can have the best infrastructure…but if the quality of care does not match the quality of infrastructure, then we’re doing an injustice to the investment and this is something that resides in your own conscience.

“We have to work on lifting the quality of care.

And how are we doing this?

We’re investing more yes,

we’re doing better salaries.

What about better attitude?”

The president questioned while, stressing the need for improved care and service.

The new hospital will feature five operating theaters, one specifically for cardiac surgery, and advanced digital X-ray, and CT scan machines. It will be the second public facility to house an MRI machine and will be equipped for

transplants. Two additional buildings will be constructed within the compound – one for a teaching facility and another for a modern psychiatric facility.

The hospital is being built by VAMED Engineering, a European based company known as a global provider for hospitals and other facilities in the healthcare sector.

According the compa-

ny’s project director, works will commence as soon as March and is expected to be completed within three years.

Meanwhile, Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony detailed the government’s efforts to improve healthcare services in the region, referencing the recent upgrades to several facilities.

In Skeldon, there is the construction of a new hospital with 24-hour Accident and Emergency Services and inpatient facilities, while upgrades were made to the Port Mourant Hospital and existing New Amsterdam hospital, including the expansion of the neonatal unit.

“Lots of things are happening and I want all of you to embrace these changes and support the change that is coming to this sector,” the Health Minister said.

Last year, the Health Ministry had begun the rollout of a telemedicine programme in rural communities. Alongside this, the ministry has been working to implement a digital health system to improve patient care. All of these components will be features of the new hospital.

Dr. Anthony said: “We [envision] that every single patient that would come to our health system would have a unique identifier and any part of the system that they go, we will be able to ensure that they get the kind of services [they require]… we will be able to see their previous history.

“We will be able to integrate imaging laboratory on all the things that are necessary to treat the patient. But more importantly, this thing about waiting time, you will be able to have an app on your phone where you can then make appointments with their hospitals.

And when you go in there, you shouldn’t be spending more than 15 to 30 minutes before you’re seen by a medical professional,” the Health Minister added.

‘Face the ...

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

From page 2

Wismar Bridge, which symbolises not only improved infrastructure but also increased economic activity.

He highlighted the exponential growth in bridge usage, from 768,000 crossings in 2020 to over 1.5 million crossings, signifying positive change and heightened economic prospects.

REVITALISING CALL CENTRES President Ali also shed light on the closure of the call centre during the APNU era, only to be operationalised once again under the current government.

“When we left in 2015, we left a functioning call centre with many people employed in that call centre,” he recalled.

“Within three years, we have operationalised back that call centre and working to expand it now. Who are working there?

Young people from Region 10,” Dr. Ali said.

He related that the revival of the call centre serves as a testament to the PPP/C government’s commitment to creating employment opportunities and fostering economic independence, particularly among the youth of Linden.

ADDRESSING SOCIAL WELFARE Moving on, President Ali touched on

crucial social welfare aspects, particularly education.

He compared the APNU’s five-year investment of $226 million in the Ministry of Education to the PPP/C’s remarkable $2 billion injection in the last three years. The emphasis was clear – investing in the future through education.

He cited specific examples of successful initiatives that have been launched in recent years and expressed a commitment to continue this work in the future.

One of those initiatives is the “Because We Care” cash grant to parents of children attending school, which was introduced by the PPP/C to offset expenses associated with children attending school.

However, this initiative was discontinued by the former APNU regime, and was recommenced when the PPP/C returned to office in 2020.

“They removed $10,000 per child in this region, and it costs $100 million. They took away $100 million from the children in Linden.

That is what they did. What did we do?

They took away the 100 million, and in the three years we [PPP/C] came back in office, under this initiative alone, we gave back the children and we give them three and a half

times more,” the President said.

Under the 2023 budget, parents and guardians of 214,000 school children received $40,000, which amounts to $8.6 billion. For Linden alone, $1 billion was spent on the cash grant.

The President also debunked claims of handouts, stressing that the grant was a rightful entitlement for the children of Linden.

“This is your entitlement from a government that has been elected to serve you,” he asserted, countering the opposition’s narratives that seek to undermine genuine government initiatives.

AGRICULTURE, SMALL BUSINESS, AND HEALTH President Ali moved on to highlight the agricultural sector, an area of immense potential for Linden.

He outlined a visionary agri-innovation and hydroponics programme, earmarked with a $200 million investment. The programme aims to create agri-business owners, fostering economic independence and sustainability.

The President didn’t shy away from addressing the health sector, showcasing the government’s commitment to holistic development.

In just three years, the Ministry of Human Services’ investment in Region 10 exceeded $179 million, more than double the APNU’s $80 million over five years.

PHILOSOPHY OF INCLUSIVITY In a passionate call for unity, President Ali urged Lindeners to base their decisions on facts and truth rather than succumbing to divisive propaganda. He underscored the philosophy of being just leaders, transcending political lines.

“Today, my friends of Region 10, let the truth guide your action.

Do not let the social media posts, the propaganda, the lies, the desperation that is utilised as a weapon to divide us, ever and influence you in making your decision,” he implored.

FUTURE PROSPECTS President Ali concluded his address by outlining the promising future awaiting Linden.

He hinted at upcoming innovative projects for the youth, expansion of borders, and the bridging of the Berbice River.

The President’s words resonated with optimism, as he told the villagers of his vision of a prosperous future for Linden as the PPP/C government continues its commitment to inclusive development.

He urged Lindeners to “face the facts” of the historical challenges under the PNC-led-APNU+AFC, as he had laid out the evidence of a comprehensive account of the PPP/C government’s proactive measures to revitalise and uplift Linden, Region 10 in just under three years.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

‘Our promises are sacred; we work every day to fulfil them’ –– VP Jagdeo affirms; defends gradual approach to free university education

–– exposes APNU’s broken promises IN response to Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton’s accusations of political gimmickry, Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo reaffirmed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s commitment to gradually achieving free university education by 2025.

During a press conference at the Office of the President on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo addressed accusations that the move was timed for electoral gain.

Jagdeo explained that the promise predates the 2020 elections, emphasising the government’s dedication to fulfilling its commitments.

Vice-President Jagdeo began by addressing Norton’s assertion that the promise of free university education was a “political gimmick”, which he firmly rejected, declaring, “Our promises are sacred to us. We work every day to fulfil them.”

He reminded the public that the pledge to make university education free was not a recent campaign tactic, but a commitment made prior to the 2020 elections.

The Vice-President acknowledged the phased approach to realising this promise, explaining: “We promised within five years to make university education free. We could have said the first year we do that. We met the other promises, we were timebombed.”

Dr. Jagdeo clarified that the government was diligently working towards this goal, starting with addressing the outstanding loans of students already enrolled in the University of Guyana (UG).

APNU’S BROKEN PROMISES Dr. Jagdeo, however, seized the opportunity to expose another failed promise of the opposition during its time in office (2015-2020), especially regarding promises related to university education.

He reminded the public that the APNU+AFC coalition, despite fervent campaign pledges, failed to eliminate tuition fees during their term.

“It’s the same party that increased the fees at the Uni-

versity of Guyana. People forget that. They increased the fees at the University of Guyana. He talks about (late People’s National Congress Leader Forbes) Burnham and free education ....But you were in government just a few years ago, and you increased the fees there,” the Vice-President pointed out.

This stark comparison highlighted the PPP/C’s commitment to fulfilling promises unlike the opposition.

Vice-President Jagdeo provided insights into the government’s rationale for adopting a phased approach to free university education.

He pointed out the need to address students with existing loans first, acknowledging the financial constraints of delivering immediate free education.

“But at least we can get some productive use,” he added, alluding to potential mechanisms that could alleviate the financial burden on students.

Jagdeo detailed the considerations behind potential write-offs, stating: “We are trying to ensure that the write-

offs for the debts are done in a manner that is clear, consistent, the rules are established, and evenly applied to everyone.”

This approach seeks to avoid inconsistencies and favouritism, ensuring fairness in the implementation of free education initiatives.

Vice-President Jagdeo reinforced the PPP/C’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling promises made to the electorate.

As such, he urged the public not to dismiss the government’s efforts as “political gimmickry”, highlighting the party’s sincerity and long-term commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all Guyanese.

While underscoring the commitment to free university education, Vice-President Jagdeo shed light on another educational initiative – the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, during a year-end interview, highlighted that around 20,000 Guyanese are currently pursuing higher education through GOAL, ranging from certif-

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams photo) icate-level programmes to doctorate programmes.

This initiative further reflects the PPP/C government’s dedication to providing diverse educational opportunities.

The APNU+AFC whilst in government between 2015 and 2020 not only increased

UG tuition fees but also introduced VAT on Education, VAT on textbooks and other educational materials.

They also introduced VAT on computers and on internet data, including WiFi, which are critical aspects of students’ lives at a university.

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Editor

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

Navendra Seoraj

Unravelling Misconceptions

IN the January 6, 2024 edition of the Kaieteur News, an anonymous author in the Peeping Tom column and adviser to the Opposition Leader, Elson Low, presented a perspective on the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) that has been sharply criticised by Financial Analyst, Joel Bhagwandin.

Bhagwandin takes issue with what he reveals as a fundamental misunderstanding of the NRF Act (2021), questioning the authors’ familiarity with its legal operations and their broader incompetence in the realm of public financial management.

The crux of the disagreement revolves around the perceived adequacy of the NRF’s interest earnings to fund a

proposed 13 per cent increase in wages and salaries for public sector workers in 2023. The author of the Peeping Tom column and Elson Low argue that the government’s earnings of over G$16 billion in interest for 2023 are more than sufficient for this purpose.

Bhagwandin, however, meticulously dissects this argument, emphasising Section 19 of the NRF Act, which dictates that the withdrawal from the fund for the next fiscal year is contingent on the closing balance of the preceding fiscal year. In simpler terms, the withdrawal for 2023 is based on the ending balance of 2022, not the cumulative interest earned over multiple years.

For further context, the interest earned for the fiscal year 2022 was

G$2.4 billion, deemed insufficient to cover even the 6.5 per cent salary increase that was granted by the government, which amounted to approximately G$8 billion.

The year-to-date interest earned for 2023, based on the NRF balance, is G$12.5 billion, with a cumulative interest earned from the inception of the NRF in 2021 totalling G$16.1 billion.

Bhagwandin underscores the impracticality of using cumulative interest earnings over multiple years to finance an annual recurrent expenditure such as salary increases.

Even if one were to consider the cumulative interest earnings of G$16 billion as of September 2023, Bhagwandin argues that this would still fall

short when compared to the cumulative increase in total employment cost for the same period, amounting to G$28 billion.

Further responding to the haste of the Peeping Tom column and Elson Low in attempting to disprove Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Bhagwandin characterises their arguments not only as containing rudimentary errors, but also fundamental errors that highlight a deep lack of knowledge in public financial management.

In order for there to be constructive arguments or determinations, there needs to be a more nuanced understanding of the NRF Act and its implications for public financial management.

Region 10 well positioned to become major centre for investment –– regional official, residents anticipate ‘greater days’ with new four-lane Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge

By Cindy Parkinson RESIDENTS of Linden in Region 10 as well as regional representatives have commended President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and his administration for moving ahead with the construction of the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge, for which a US$35 million contract was signed recently by the Government of Guyana and China Railway Construction Corporation Limited.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Regional Chairman of Region 10, Deron Adams, said that he is pleased that the construction of the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge is being realised by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), since both major political parties had it on their agendas.

According to him: “I am happy that the bridge is being realised, and I know based on the fact that when I checked the manifesto [sic] for both APNU and the PPP/C when they were presenting their plans and vision that the bridge was a priority for them... So, I am happy that the government of

the day, with the interest of continuity, has agreed to [do] both the Linden to Mabura Hill road project and, of course, the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge.”

Adams, who described the recent signing ceremony as a historic event, said: “I know that Region 10 is well positioned geographically to become a major centre for business and finance.”

He also said that with the roads and construction of the new bridge across the Demerara River, Linden will be better positioned to become a major hub in the country.

The Regional Chairman also added: “When one looks at some of the challenges that the people of Region 10 experience on a daily basis, especially in Linden, the wait time in the mornings is because of the current onelane structure that is there.

“I think that it will be easier for vehicles to traverse once it is completed, and I believe that it will have a powerful impact on our region when a country like Brazil, which has a large money supply and is ready to invest, is connected to a region like the Upper Demerara-Berbice [sic] region.”

Adams went on to say: “So, this piece of investment [the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge] will definitely reduce travel time; it will encourage investment and facilitate business interaction and tourism, amongst other things.

“I also believe that we must, together, in bipartisan ways, give support and welcome it, so that critical component, that piece of infrastructure [the bridge], will indeed complement the work that has started on the Linden to Lethem Road, and I am happy that I was a part of the ceremony on Friday.”

Additionally, Jackie Bourne, a Linden resident, told the Guyana Chronicle that there has never been a major development in Linden’s history which is comparable to what is currently occurring under President Ali’s administration.

According to her: “I am so happy for this bridge, and I know that the residents in Region 10 are incredibly happy too. Drivers, motorists, cyclists, workers, and students will benefit tremendously from the expansion of this bridge.

“I say this because every

Regional Chairman of Region 10, Deron Adams, engages President, Dr. Irfaan Ali at the signing ceremony for the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge, on Friday, January 5 day, especially during peak hours, there is a long line at the bridge, and you are stuck sometimes for over an hour or more there waiting to cross. It is really pleasing to know that we are getting a bridge, and it’s a four-lane one, so we would be relieved from the traffic congestion.”

Bourne added: “Apart from the workers, drivers, and children getting to their destinations on time, this bridge will be good for business as well, because this government is also working on the roads from Linden to Mabura, and then the second phase will be straight to Lethem, which will link Brazil and make Linden an econom-

ic hub for us. How can we not be excited about this?”

She also used the opportunity to address her fellow Lindeners, urging them to notice the progress being made in the area, and recognise those who are attempting to provide them with a better living, rather than allowing themselves to be “brainwashed or misguided” by the wrong people.

She added: “All that is happening in Linden will boost the economy, and we will all benefit from it; of course, it will not happen at once, but look at the bridge, for example. This will boost the Wismar shore, where business is hardly being

done... I want to also say that a lot more roads are being built, and a lot more grants are given to small-business owners.

“Region 10 is a unique place, and everything for some people is politics, but I want to urge them to see for themselves all that is happening around them, look at the developments, and support those who are supporting you. We are finally being seen, and we are being given what we always wanted. I am sure that we will continue to get more in due time.

We are in 2024; let us think for ourselves, my people.”

Santayana was insulted in 2023 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

WHEN the American soldiers arrived at Jonestown in Guyana in 1978, where Jim Jones, cult leader of the People’s Temple, had ordered the suicide of its followers and 918 victims died, they found a slogan on the site that read, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

Those were the words of the existentialist philosopher George Santayana, written more than a hundred years ago but is one of the world’s most popular and recognised aphorisms. The Santayana saying has endured and will never die away, because humans are incapable of learning from the past.

The powerfully impeccable example of the aphorism comes from Afghanistan.

Successive empires invaded Afghanistan and had to run out. It was a place where invading armies go directly to the cemetery. The Russians refused to learn from the past, and dived straight into Afghanistan and were driven out.

The Americans had this historical playbook right on its lap, but refused to learn from the past. It went into Afghanistan and was driven out with identical scenes as when the Americans pulled out of Vietnam. The locals were madly scrambling to hold on to moving airplanes that were transporting the departing soldiers.

History is beautifully rich so that every human can learn from the past. But do we want to learn from the mistakes of history?

Are humans congenitally trapped in a psychology that prevents them from internalising the mistakes of history so they could be guided into the future?

In Guyana, in 2017, prisoners burned down the entire central prison of the country

on Camp Street. A Commission of Inquiry was held. One of the definitive conclusions was that there were too many prisoners on remand. In 2016, the prison housed 979 inmates; this was 448 more numbers than the facility could have taken in.

At the time of writing, I haven’t got the figures of how many prisoners are in the replacement for the Camp Street jail at Lusignan. But because Guyana has not learnt from the past, it must be bulging at the seam. Our magistrates do not know who Santayana was, so they do not understand how the past can guide the future.

I was angry when I read in 2023 that a Linden bank teller was charged with conspiracy to defraud the bank with her friend. No act of violence was committed, but both accused were remanded. A perfect case for granting bail did not happen. Now it is interesting to note that days before the Camp Street inferno, I penned a column warning of impending disaster at the jail.

I am warning this country again that if magistrates, as a matter of policy, refuse to grant bail to people who come in front of them, then you are going to have an overcrowded Lusignan jail. The year 2023 has not been a stellar year for the judiciary. In another column assessing Guyana in 2023, I will look at the overbearing discrepancy in sentencing in the High Court, and I will analyse some judges’ decisions.

I will conclude with an encouraging decision of the Judicial Service Commission. It has decided to publicly advertise for vacancies in three branches in the judiciary – magistrates, High Court judges and Justices

THIS past week the President announced phased implementation of free university education.

This would represent another campaign promise kept. I noticed some skepticism expressed by the opposition.

Generally speaking, these reservations show a lack of knowledge of the actual framing in the manifesto. On Page 34 of “OUR PLAN FOR PROSPERITY,” two separate items were listed and were always intended to be two distinct, but mutually dependent rollouts.

The exact rendering states: 1. “Provide free education at the University of Guyana within five years.” 2. “Provide a pathway for debt write-off for students with outstanding student loans.”

As it seems, item number one will come later and is not part of this initial rollout. For now, I will keep the focus on the pathway for debt write-offs. The detailed measures of this plan have not yet been released. The majority of the plan will most likely be elucidated along with the 2024 budget, since there will be a budgetary impact, which will need to be statutorised via the appropriations bill.

That said, I wish to advocate for debt writeoff to be tied to post-graduation service to the country. Debt write-off should not be automatic, but via an application process. My recommended eligibility formula would be, the number of years of study under loan plus one, years of work in Guyana.

That is to say, a person studying a one-year course will be required to work in Guyana for two years. A two-year diploma will require three years of work, etc... Wherever you work in Guyana should not matter.

Be it self-employment, private-sector or

public-sector employment. Exception should be granted to athletes who live and train overseas, providing they have represented the country over the same period that is required in other instances outlined above. Those who choose to be homemakers after graduation should also be eligible; it is a legitimate form of work.

There is a category of persons who should wait on future rollout or be denied debt forgiveness altogether. Those Guyanese who live permanently overseas and come back to procure a student loan to finance their studies, then leave right after graduation.

The primary purpose of free education is to improve the local pool of skills to aid development and must, therefore, carry built-in incentives to stem the brain drain. Therefore, residency-eligibility requirements should be strictly enforced.

During the debt-cancellation application process, the applicant must supply proof that they meet the eligibility requirements. In this instance, a non-exhaustive list can include NIS contribution records, tax records, immigration and travel records. This “pathway” is not unreasonable even in the slightest.

The other campaign promise for “free education at the University of Guyana” should carry a pre-study residency requirement. To be eligible for free tuition at UG, a citizen should have lived continuously in Guyana for three to five years, depending on the study programme, immediately prior to the date of application.

There is a third campaign promise found on the said page 34 that I wish to highlight.

“Update a manpower survey and undertake curricula reform accordingly.” This, providing it is done right, is a major contributing pillar that will impact all aspects of national development.

in the Court of Appeal. But it should not end there. The society should know who is applying, for one fundamental reason: A judge in Guyana has power comparable to the head of government.

One example should compel you to scrutinise the judges we are getting. Justice Sandil Kissoon, in May last year, ordered the EPA to enforce an unlimited insurance edict to EXXON in case of an oil spill, failure of which the EPA’s permit for EXXON to explore oil in Guyana should be withdrawn. If EXXON had said it cannot guarantee an unlimited sum, then EPA had to adhere to the judge’s decision, and EXXON would have had to leave Guyana.

If, on appeal, the unlimited insurance edict stood, then the most expensive foreign investment in the history of this country

would have ended. More importantly, the discovery of the most lucrative foreign export industry in the history of Guyana would have come to an end.

I strongly disagreed with that decision.

See my column of Tuesday, August 22, 2023, “The vast power of judges”. The judiciary had entered the realm of policy-making in Guyana, which can lead Guyana into tsunamic waters. It is for elected ruling parties to decide if they want or do not want foreign investments; not the judiciary. Only the government can change the capital of Guyana; a judge has no power to reverse that. That crucial decision by Justice Kissoon symbolises the unlimited power of the judiciary.

So, in 2024, let society know who the applicants are.

UG student loan debt forgiveness and tuition-free studies What do you make of it ?

Tying a manpower survey to education is merely a first but necessary step. This will ensure free education is targeted towards the manpower requirements of the country and the entire venture is not just a stab in the dark. Certainly, the lone University of Guyana will not be able to offer all possible courses necessary for our development. This means that we will have to look outside of UG to supplement our education needs.

After these aforementioned measures are operating satisfactorily, the government should, in the next manifesto cycle, consider issuing study vouchers for eligible citizens to study locally and internationally accredited university programmes outside UG. This may require two things: one, a manpower ranking, so that vouchers are issued only for non-UG programmes

by Leonard Craig satisfying a certain ranking.

Two, expand strategic university cooperation agreements where curriculum is shared between UG and other universities around the world. In this way, education and development will go hand in hand. This will reduce the current mismatch and randomness that exist between education and national manpower requirements.

A rapidly expanding oil-producing economy will need its education and manpower planning cycles to be well oiled and targeted, otherwise many possible gains may be missed altogether and, in some cases, may even contribute to developmental retardation.

As it stands, the government is on track with its election promise to deliver strategic, free public university education.

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Create a supportive routine for the post-holiday season

By Vanessa Cort

CONTRARY to popular belief, the Christmas season does not usually intensify the negative feelings of those suffering from anxiety, depression, suicidal tendencies or other mood disorders. It can do the opposite.

Experts tell us that the goodwill and festive spirit which abound during the holidays touch even those with mental health issues, encouraging them to put their troubles behind them and join in the pleasantries of the celebrations.

However, it is the aftermath of the festive season and the dawning of the new year that tend to bring a resurgence in negative moods. This happens as people realise their problems did not magically disappear, but still have to be faced and dealt with.

Many may even feel increased pressure to let go of some of their emotional baggage, reluctant to en-

ter the new year with the challenges which plagued them during the previous year.

Then there is something called the ‘post-Christmas blues,’ whereby people simply feel sad and gloomy after the holidays.

According to researchers, this is more prevalent than we think and is common after all the ‘hoopla’ of the season.

This ‘let down’ feeling is usually short-lived and most people get over it after a while. We are warned, though, that we should pay attention to how long these emotions last and focus on self-care and creating ‘a supportive routine’ during the post-holiday season.

In discussing ‘The post-holiday blues and mental health,’ writer Barbara Field said: “Many people experience mental health challenges after the holidays” and noted that scientists have studied the effect of religious holidays

on individuals, It was found that there was a decrease in overall usage of psychiatric emergency services and admissions for self-harm behaviour and suicide attempts during the holidays.

But an increase or rebound was detected following the Christmas holiday.

A further review of 25 studies carried out in 2022 showed that ‘psychiatric hospitalisations’ were lower at Christmas and during other holidays than they were during other times in the year.

Verywell Mind notes that “after the adrenaline rush of the holidays you may have a variety of negative emotions, such as anxiety, moodiness, depression, inability to sleep,” though this varies from person to person and the feelings are not likely to last long.

There are common emotions that people experience, such as emptiness, after the frenzied

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

activity of the holidays, along with the exhaustion that results. Some feel loneliness following long working hours and the inability to join loved ones, while others feel stressed, travelling for lengthy periods, then preparing for the trip back home.

The ‘Let Down After Extreme Emotions’ researchers explain as a probable recovery after “intense positive emotions” and the example is given of extreme joy and happiness some feel at seeing and visiting friends and family.

Those who suffered from mental health issues prior to the holidays and those for whom the ‘holiday blues’ were not temporary, are urged to seek professional help to cope with their feelings.

We are all advised to give ourselves a short period of “catch-up time” which can provide a buffer before we return to regular

routine. In addition, we are urged to connect with others through telephone or talking in person, rather than via social media. And above and beyond all of this, we are encouraged to take care of ourselves.

Ms. Field exhorts us: “Be nice to yourself. Cut yourself some slack and administer self-care. Selfcare is important when you are feeling down.”

She recommends exercise, which has been

shown to combat feelings of anxiety and depression; eating a nutritious diet with a focus on fish and whole grains to help reduce stress and getting enough sleep, as poor sleep can contribute to depression.

And remember experts tell us to think about selfcare as a philosophy and not an action.

That philosophy is “recognising that you’re worth the time.”

Ministry of Agriculture is looking to install 50 marine cages as part of efforts to boost the aquaculture sector (Guyana Chronicle file photo) mencement of its ‘Cage in 2022) had stated that hinterland district were also Culture’ initiative that was once established, this project set to benefit from this major expected to start in October would guarantee fisherfolk intervention. of that year. close to $8 million annually.

President Ali had noted President Dr. Irfaan Ali Communities within the that the initiative, will aid in

the reduction of operation costs. He said profits gained will meaningfully improve the livelihood of residents throughout the district.

The government on assuming office had announced that it was exploring the possibility of introducing cage culture given the impact of climate change on the global fisheries sector.

With our local fishermen also suffering low catches because of this, it further prompted the government to conceptualise the ‘Cage Culture’ project.

To prepare fishermen for this new development, in 2023 it was disclosed that 30 fisherfolk were expected to undergo training facilitated

by China, to further promote the use of cage culture.

Minister Mustapha urged fishers to adapt to new technologies to maintain healthy fishing spaces which will promote a better quality of

aquatic foods.

The agriculture minister pointed out, “We can’t continue to do the same thing or want new results with the same kind of activity and the same way we have been doing it from our fore-parents time. We have to change the way we do things now.”

He added, “Gone are the days when you just go out to the seashore and put your seine and expect to catch, four or five baskets of fish.”

The minister highlighted that sustainable fishing is the foundation of maintaining the health of people and fishing spaces, such as oceans and rivers.

Cage culture involves the use of marine cages that are set up in lakes, reservoirs or ponds to confine fish. Further, it allows water to pass freely between the fish and surrounding water resources, maintaining good water quality and removing waste.

Marine ‘cage culture’ project to be expanded in 2024

AS it seeks to boost the country’s aquaculture sector and provide assistance to fisherfolk, the Ministry of Agriculture is looking to add 50 more cages to its marine ‘cage culture’ project.

At present, a total of six cages are installed under this project at Capoey, Mainstay, and Mashabo.

According to the ministry, each cage is stocked with tambaqui fingerlings (tambaqui being a large species of freshwater fish).

It was also revealed that site selection and community engagement activities have commenced in several areas across Regions Two, Five, Nine and 10, as plans to replicate this project in these regions are underway.

In 2022, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha announced that Guyana would soon be one step closer to boosting the aquaculture sector with the com-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

Local content legislation to be examined –– President to pay special attention to PWDs Ali says

THE Government of Guyana has signalled plans to examine the country’s local content legislation to include Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs), President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced.

The Head of State while addressing a gathering at a sod turning ceremony for a new Hospital in New Amsterdam, Berbice (Region Six), on Sunday, disclosed that the first Business Innovation Centre for PWDs will soon be commissioned in the region and to complement this project further, officials will be exploring the Local Content Act 2021 to create opportunities within the oil and gas for PWDs. “I want to examine the local content legislation

to see what services in the oil and gas sector can be redirected to people living with disability, so we create an enabling environment to bring equity to the development paradigm of the country. When I said I want everyone to be included and no section of our society to be left behind. This is what I meant,” the Head of State said.

The country’s Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall announced last year that the country would update its local content laws to reflect the learnings and recommendations from stakeholders in the growing oil and gas industry.

On December 31, 2021, the Government of

By Faith Greene

with several educational institutions, offering more options to those using the platform.

Meanwhile, for persons living with disabilities, efforts to improve inclusivity and accessibility were prompted as the ministry introduced the ground-breaking Learning Lab in June 2023. The lab provides free access to training for persons living with disabilities.

Additionally, the facility moves such persons from financial dependency to financial independence, while also generating job creation through its training opportunities.

In June 2023, $100 million was budgeted for the rehabilitation of the Sophia Care Centre in order to provide additional support to parents and care for their children while they are at work.

In May 2023, subject minister Vindhya Persaud, in an effort to encourage involvement in the foster care

Guyana passed the Local Content Act 2021. Subsequently, it published several related guidelines that were designed to maximise the participation of Guya-

highly skilled subsectors like subsea installation, geophysical analysis and engineering.

The Local Content Act was designed with the

nese companies wherever they have the skills and capacity to get involved, beginning with services such as office space rental, janitorial services, laundry and catering services, pest control services, insurance services, supply of food and accounting services and extending through long-term involvement in

overarching goal that Guyana’s oil and gas industry can support an economy where small and medium-sized businesses can grow, thrive, and benefit from the country’s burgeoning oil and gas industry.

The laws aim to ensure that companies operating in the country hire a cer-

system, urged persons to visit the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) if they were interested in being foster parents.

She remarked: “... Foster parents will not always realise how important their intervention is in the life of a child, but it makes a complete difference to a child, to be in a loving home, versus an institution.”

To date, some 172 children were reported to be in foster care, while 43 children were reunited with their families.

The ministry also implemented the teenage pregnancy programme that was

crafted to mitigate incidents and vulnerabilities linked with sexual behaviour by empowering youths (young women and men) under the purview of the CPA. Over 150 teenagers were reported to have benefitted from this programme in 2023.

Further, over 300 childcare facilities received licences to operate in 2023. This ensured the safety and protection of thousands of children who are cared for at those facilities.165 caregivers are employed at these facilities, while 400 were registered under the ministry’s Early Childhood Unit.

In November 2023, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali announced that some 19,000 Persons with Disabilities who are on the public assistance register will benefit from an additional $35,000 bonus in December 2023. This amounted to $660 million.

This assistance was also extended to persons living with HIV and those with

tain percentage of local workers and use a certain percentage of local goods and services.

These percentages are set to steadily increase as local workers and companies gain capacity and knowledge until Guyanese provide many services and fill most of the industry’s jobs.

BUSINESS CENTRE Addressing the establishment of the business centre, President Ali noted that the initiative will be replicated in several other regions.

The initiative for the business centre came from First Lady Arya Ali, and upon completion, it will facilitate the manufacturing of products, and

offer retail space, technical training, and therapy for persons living with disabilities.

The centre will have five workstations for production, a boardroom, a therapy room, a cafeteria, and washroom facilities.

The commercial space’s goal is to provide PWDs with a platform to market the goods they produce.

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) was approached to regulate and monitor the facility’s production, which will allow for the “Made in Guyana” certification to be applied to the products.

This certification will open up opportunities for the products to be marketed locally, regionally, and internationally.

cancer.

Also in December 2023, old-age pensioners each received a $25,000 bonus.

This distribution, which was received by thousands of pensioners across Guyana, totalled $1.8 billion.

In 2023, thousands of vulnerable Guyanese found refuge through programmes offered by the ministry’s Difficult Circumstances Unit.

Minister Persaud noted that these programmes were born out of compassion and commitment, and have made a significant impact on the lives of many.

The programme was reported to be a crucial lifeline for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, allowing vulnerable citizens to get up to three months’ worth of supplies.

Vulnerable groups receive unwavering support from MHSSS in 2023

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) made significant strides in empowering vulnerable citizens through various initiatives in 2023.

These initiatives created opportunities for independence, generated a means of earning an income and provided stability for those persons.

These groups include women and children, persons living with disabilities, and senior citizens. These initiatives and financial support was evidence of the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing inequalities and promoting social inclusion.

Through the Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme, over 11,000 women have been empowered through the various skills-training and business opportunities it provides. Since its inception in 2021, WIIN has partnered

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

PPC responds to Patterson’s contention The following is the full text of a statement from the Public Procurement Commission: “THE Public Procurement Commission (PPC) notes a letter to the editor published in Saturday’s edition (January 6, 2024) of the Stabroek News under the hand of Mr. David Patterson salaciously titled “PPC Report is a whitewash of the complaint by Akamai.”

The author contends that the commission in its consideration of a complaint lodged by Akamai Inc. by and through Mr. Brian Hackett, Chief Executive Officer, failed to consider the accuracy of the record of the tender proceedings and in so doing “…simply adopted a defective report, performed no investigative analysis and rubberstamped the award.”

The commission, however, did consider

the possibility of the inaccuracy of the record of the tender proceedings and respectfully draws attention to paragraphs 23-25 of its Summary of Findings, which were not disclosed by the author, to wit[23] Section 10(1) of the Procurement Act, Cap. 73:05 expressly vests the procuring entity with the responsibility of maintaining a record of the tender proceedings.

Parties are thereby bound.

[24] As noted by this commission before1, a procuring entity is by such statutory responsibility expected to maintain systems of the highest integrity in ensuring an accurate record of the tender proceedings, including documents submitted by bidders. This is imperative since there is no mechanism within the current tender procedure of independently verifying documents submitted

to, and or received by, the procuring entity. A Bid is submitted in a sealed envelope and only the administrative requirements are read and recorded at the opening. The tenderer is not given a receipt of what is in fact received by the procuring entity.

[25] The commission is cognisant that a record may not be accurate for a number of reasons, such as but not limited to, negligence on the part of the tenderer and or procuring entity, innocent but mistaken belief of submission and the misplacement of documents (intentional or unintentional). The forum for settlement of such conflicts, should they arise, would be the court. Unlike other enquiry bodies, the PPC is not vested at this time with the requisite enabling legislative framework to subpoena witnesses, administer oaths and or examine witnesses

so as to arrive at a determination as a fact as to an act or omission relating to the record and where such responsibility lies.

The aforesaid was not disputed by the author who simply made broad statements as to what the commission should have done, without any legal basis or authority therefor. As expressly noted in the commission’s Summary of Findings, the complainant is not left without remedy as there is recourse to the Court against the procuring entity, criminal or civil as the circumstances may dictate, being the appropriate forum for the settlement of such disputes of allegations of fact as to

what was alleged to have been submitted and what was in fact received.

Further, the author, on divulged reliance of statements by “AFC nominated commissioner” Dianna Rajcumar, mischievously sought to divide the commission by giving the further erroneous impression that the findings of the commission were not supported by “[the two] opposition nominated commissioners.”

As the record of the commission, including its minutes, unanimously adopted, corroborates, the Summary of Findings of the commission in this matter was adopted and accepted by all of the commissioners, except

“the AFC-nominated” Commissioner.

Notably, other findings by the commission against the procuring entity and tender board were not highlighted by the author. Inferences therefrom are clear.

While the commission as a constitutional body welcomes scrutiny, it regrets that it has had to too often address and correct inaccurate and erroneous statements coming from the same source.

The Summary of Findings of the commission in its entirety can be accessed via the commission’s website, www. ppc.org.gy for those interested in accuracy and logic.”

CJIA undergoing additional infrastructural works to enhance efficiency the tune of some $935 million. The facility is expected to accommo-

THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport ( C J I A) i s c u r r e n t l y ongoing additional infrastructural works to bring greater efficiency and management to its processes.

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill made the disclosure during a recent year-end press conference at the ministry’s Wight’s Lane, Kingston office.

Providing an update on the airport’s capital projects, the public works minister made it clear that the US$150 million rehabilitation works executed by the Chinese company, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) have been completed.

“These are other

things that we are doing to continue to modernise and improve the airport,” he asserted.

These additional works

include the installation of an in-line baggage handling system, which is expected to cost approximately $512 million.

A contract has also been awarded for the design, construction, and supervision of a separate ‘admin’ building to

date the airport’s staff and management.

“We can move the staff that is currently housed in

the airport to a building that is outside of the airport, so all of that can turn into concessions [and] spaces for other things to take place in the airport,” Minister Edghill explained.

Rehabilitation works are also ongoing on the taxiway. Taxiways are paths that airplanes use to get to and from the runway; they connect the runway with the ramp and parking area.

“These are all capital projects, funded by Central Government and sometimes by the Cheddi Jagan Airport from their revenue as well,” the minister added.

Since 2020, the CJIA has seen expansive work being implemented to enhance and modify its operations, so as to accommodate a flourishing tourism sector.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

Guyana looking forward to another sale of carbon credits –– but is in no rush for this, Vice-President Jagdeo says; believes country has ‘strong product’

BOASTING a “strong product” in the form of forest conservation, Guyana is now looking forward to another sale of its carbon credits, but the country is in no rush and officials intend to only enter into a deal which has favourable conditions.

At a press conference last

Thursday, Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said people are interested in Guyana’s carbon credits.

“There is no urgency, there is no pressing, no pressure on us to do so; we are in a comfortable position to explore the markets that way because we have a strong

product. We have a strong product.

“We’re fortified by a solid agreement that defied market expectations and now we have a few people with interest.

The problem with the market, though, is because of what happened at COP, the market softened a bit because of

COP, but we believe through bilateral deals, similar to the one that we did with Hess, we’d be able to advance the sale,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

In 2022, the architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) issued the world’s first trees credit, enabling the country to enter into an historic agreement with Hess Corporation, whereby the oil giants opted to purchase about one-third of all Guyana’s credits.

Through Guyana’s sale of carbon credits, the country is able to generate funds to support climate adaptation and developmental projects in the hinterland regions of the country.

In 2023, the country received its first payment of US$75 million (or G$15.6 billion). Some 15 per cent of this was allocated to community/village-led programmes for Indigenous Peoples, while the remaining 85 per cent was allocated for adaptation measures outlined in the country’s Low Carbon

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo Development Strategy LCDS. While Guyana has entered a voluntary market, Dr. Jagdeo maintained that a structured market could see the country and many others such as Guyana, earning more.

Dr. Jagdeo had attended the 28th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai last November and had told reporters he was disappointed that no headway was made to advance the carbon market.

In a nutshell, carbon markets are trading systems in which carbon credits are sold and bought.

Since 2007, Guyana has been lobbying for a struc-

tured, carbon market-based mechanism to simultaneously preserve its forests and pursue development.

Guyana, however, has established its own unique mechanism, through the creation of one of the first Low Carbon Development Strategies in the world, Dr. Jagdeo said.

While Guyana has entered a voluntary market which will see the country raising a minimum of US$750 million for preserving its forests as part of the Hess agreement, a structured mechanism could create a “greater incentive” for Guyana and other developing countries.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

Fire Service urges citizens to be vigilant following upsurge in fires

THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has taken note of the upsurge in fires over the past week, five of which occurred on Saturday.

According to a press release, around 02:00hrs on Saturday, Water Tender #85, #105, and Ambulance #15, along with their crews from the Central, Campbellville, and Alberttown fire stations responded to a building on fire at ‘C’ Field Sophia Reserve, in Georgetown.

The structure was a single-flat, wooden building under construction, owned and occupied by 21-year-old Isaiah Thomas. Unfortunately, the building and its contents were destroyed, leaving Thomas homeless. The suspected cause of the fire was a malicious setting by person(s) unknown.

Hours later at 09:20hrs, Water Tender #116 and crew from the Leonora Fire Station responded to reports of a car on fire at Concrete Street, Leonora, West Coast Demerara. The vehicle was a black Nissan, owned by Lloyd Persaud and was being driven by Brandon

Persaud.

According to reports, the fire started after a ruptured fuel line came into contact with hot engine components, ignited, and spread to the entire bonnet.

As a result of the fire, the entire engine and bonnet of the car were destroyed.

The release added that at approximately 12:50hrs, Water Tender #85, Water Carrier #14, and Land Rover #7 and their crews from the Eccles Fire Station responded to the call of a house on fire at Lot 66 Remus Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara.

The building was a two-storey wooden and concrete structure owned by 45-year-old Howard Samuels and occupied by 36-year-old Tenefa Samuels and her two family members.

The building and its contents were destroyed, leaving its occupants homeless.

The reported cause of the fire was the result of an overload of the electrical circuit, which resulted in arcing and sparking and the subsequent ignition of nearby combustible materials.

Two houses and a zinc fence within proximity to the building of origin were also affected by radiated heat. Two jets from light pump #85 and water tender #85, both working from an open water source, were used to extinguish the fire.

At 14:20hrs, a team from the Eccles Fire Station responded to another fire at Lot 16 New Providence, East Bank Demerara. Upon arrival, firefighters observed that the two-storey wooden and concrete building with an adjoining flat, was engulfed in flames.

The building was owned by 80-year-old Florence Ramsaroop and was occupied by 28-year-old Seth Persaud. As a result of the fire, the building and its contents were destroyed, leaving one person homeless. Fire-prevention officers are currently investigating the cause of the fire.

Finally, at 23:55hrs, Water Tenders #85, #105 and their respective crews from the Alberttown and Central Fire Stations responded to a fire at Lot 262 South Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara where

Citizens are being urged to adopt fire-prevention and safety measures (GFS photo) the two-storey wooden and concrete building owned by 42-year-old Vanessa Lewis, who occupied it along with five (5) others was ablaze, the GFS said.

The building and its contents were destroyed, leaving

six persons homeless. An electrical circuit overload, which resulted in arcing and sparking that ignited nearby combustible materials, is the presumed cause of the fire.

The Fire Service is imploring all citizens to be vigilant

and to practise fire safety and prevention to avoid any possible fire emergencies.

“Remember to equip homes and businesses with smoke detectors, fire alarms and fire extinguishers,” the release added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

Guyana to get tissue-culture facility by mid-2024

WITH the establishment of the tissue culture facility in Guyana by mid2024, the country will be able to increase its plantlet production from 13,000 to one million annually, aimed at advancing the country’s sustainable food production agenda.

In 2023, an agreement to establish a tissue culture facility was signed by the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture and The Energy Resource Institute (TERI) of India.

This will see the establishment of a commer-

cial-size tissue culture and micropropagation facility at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

For context, a plantlet is a small or young plant that is produced on the leaf margins or the aerial stalks of another plant.

Micropropagation is a technique for propagating plants by using minuscule fragments of plant tissue extracted from a carefully selected and prepared mother plant, and growing them in a laboratory setting to create new plants.

During his ministry’s recent year-end media

conference, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha said the project is extremely good for Guyana, as it will support

the increased demand for planting materials.

“Over the last three years, we have seen a serious demand for plant-

ing materials…What we are producing now is just around 13,000 to 15,000 plantlets. When this lab is completed later on like mid-point 2024, we will be able to produce one million plantlets for our farmers around the country,” Minister Mustapha underlined.

As a result, there will be increased production of plantain, pineapple, breadfruit, sweet potato, coconut, blueberries, and blackberries.

“For the first time, we will do things like cassava, citrus, cut-flower, ginger, turmeric, strawberry, and

raspberry…All those capabilities, the plant lab will have. We will produce plantlets with things that can resist pests and diseases that we are encountering,” Minister Mustapha explained.

Additionally, works are in progress to upgrade 11 nurseries across the country, which will result in an increase in seedling production from 200,000 to 500,000.

This will pave the way for increased availability and accessibility of new plant stock to address the demand and agriculture drive. (DPI)

Police investigating suspected murder at Haslington

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

THE police are investigating the suspected murder of Otis Andey Haimchand, a 29-yearold labourer of Lot 183 Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) reported that

the alleged incident occurred around 21:00hrs at Haslington New Scheme, ECD, on Saturday.

The suspect, who is currently on the run, is a 36-year-old miner/businessman of Haslington New Scheme.

Preliminary investigations revealed that on Saturday, the suspect and Haimchand had a misunderstanding over a cellular phone.

Around 21:00hrs, the two men had another altercation during which they

scuffled and Haimchand tried to escape.

The suspect pursued Haimchand and dealt him a stab to the upper left side of his chest.

The man fell to the ground, after which the suspect escaped the scene

on foot.

The body was examined and what appeared to be blood was seen on the chest area and a wound to the left side upper chest area, in the region of his heart. The man was escorted to the Georgetown Pub-

lic Hospital Corporation where he was pronounced dead on arrival and his remains were thereafter escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home for storage and a post-mortem.

An investigation is in progress.

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Police efforts result in incident-free ‘Flash Back Old School Party’ –– several illegal items confiscated; persons arrested after thorough search

THE Flash Back Party held at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara, was ‘incident free.’

According to the police, however, about 10,000 persons were searched upon entering the venue and the following items were seized: 2,000 lighters, 100 scissors,

50 small transparent ziplock plastic bags containing cannabis, 50 ‘joints’ (marijuana), and 15 “weapons.”

Several persons were arrested for possession of narcotics.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

Dindyal favours Test cricket, ODIs; aims to make mark at U-19 World Cup

By Sean Devers

and regular, overcast days, England is his favourite place he has played due to the success he has had playing cricket in that part of the world.

In 2019, during the West Indies U-15s tour to England, Dindyal and Jamaican Jordan Johnson showed the potential to go on to bigger things.

Dindyal, who scored 21&22 in two U-19 ODIs, made a brilliant 138 in 2022 in the final match of the regional U-19 tournament against Jamaica.

“My first 100 was very memorable and it felt amazing. I am glad I could make my family proud.

“Virat Kholi is my favourite batter because of his ability to perform under pressure, adjust to different conditions and his excellent shot selections.”

Dindyal also bowls useful off-spin and his highest score is an unbeaten 206.

STYLISH 19-year-old Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), Demerara, Guyana and West Indies U-19 right-handed batter Mavindra Dindyal is aiming to make his mark for the 2024 ICC U-19 World Cup. Dindyal, along with Berbice fast bowler Isaiah Thorne, are the two Guyanese selected in the West Indies team for the tournament, which is scheduled to commence later this month in South Africa.

The pair is scheduled to depart Guyana today for South Africa.

The dashing stroke player Dindiyal, who was among seven players from the GCC to play in last year’s regional U-19 tournament, moved to that club when he became a teen.

CRICKETING HISTORY AND PROFILE After representing the West Indies at the U-15s on the tour to England in 2019, Dindyal, who has yet to play first-class cricket, represented the regional U-19 side in a Youth Test and two U-19 ODIs in Sri Lanka and is now set for his World Cup debut in South Africa.

“My goal is to be simple and be myself.

I expect it to be a very good tournament, and I just want to go out there and execute, not pressure myself.

“I hope to play a key role for my team in any department. Whether it be batting, bowling, or fielding, I will give 100% in the

Guyana and West Indies U-19 right-handed batter Mavindra Dindyal games that I play in. I just want to make good use of any opportunity given to me,” said Dindyal who prefers Test and ODI cricket to the T20 format.

Apart from playing cricket in most Caribbean countries, he has also had stints in Canada, England and the USA. Dindyal said that despite the cold climate

FAMILY AND SCHOOL LIFE He was born on October 10, 2004, in Georgetown and is one of two children born to Gopaul and Jasmine Dindyal.

Young Dindyal, who has a sister, attended the Diamond Secondary School and informed Chronicle Sport that all he did was focus on school and cricket while growing up.

“Yes! Cricket was played at Diamond Secondary and I was part of the team that won the first title for that school.

I’ve written CXC and passed with eight subjects with two grade 1s, five grade

2s and one grade 3. From an early age my dad took me to training and ever since I’ve loved the sport,” disclosed the youngster who, like former Test batter Vishaul Singh and current opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul, began his career at the age of six at the Gandhi Youth Organization (GYO) in Woolford Avenue.

TRAINING FOR SOUTH AFRICA Dindyal’s dad, who played for GYO when he was much younger, is Dindyal’s biggest coach.

His dad is often seen doing ‘throw downs’ to Dindyal at the practice nets at the Providence Stadium or his club ground Bourda in the afternoons where he ‘pelts’ headhigh full tosses to his son to prepare him to hook on what is expected to be bouncy tracks in South Africa.

“My dad is one of my biggest coaches and motivators, but I am grateful to all the coaches who have made me a better player.

“I appreciate the work everyone has put in with me; they know themselves,” added Dindyal, whose favourite shot is the cover drive West Indies’ only title was achieved in 2016 under Guyanese Shimron Hetmyer as West Indies were crowned champions in every World Cup for the year (Men’s, Women’s & U-19 Boys) The semi-finals are slated for February 6 and 8, with the final set for February 11 and West Indies will hope to dethrone defending champions, India.

Pollard to lead Mumbai Cape Town, Pooran to lead MI Emirates CMC – Former West Indies captain Kieron Pollard will lead MI Cape Town in the SA20 starting Wednesday, while counterpart Nicholas Pooran has been appointed captain of MI Emirates in the ILT20 in his absence.

The 36-year-old Pollard has been expected to feature for MI Emirates in the ILT20 which bowls off January 19 but will now

replace leg-spinner Rashid Khan, who had been installed as captain of MI Cape Town, but is still recovering from back surgery.

Pollard will be playing in the SA20 for the first time and will lead a side which includes South Africa speedster Kagiso Rabada, along with the English duo of Olly Stone and Liam Livingstone.

MI Cape Town is one of six

franchises participating in the SA20, along with Durban Super Giants, Joburg Super Kings, Paarl Royals, Pretoria Capitals and reigning champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape.

In the tournament’s inaugural season last year, Eastern Cape defeated Capitals by four wickets in a low-scoring final at the Wanderers.

Several West Indies players are

expected to turn out in the tournament, with the likes of Pooran, Romario Shepherd, Kyle Mayers, Fabian Allen and Obed McCoy all set to feature.

Pooran, also a former West Indies captain, was snapped up

by Super Giants but is likely to play only a handful of matches before he heads for the ILT20 in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

22

One Guyana King and Queen Sand Football Finals…

DC Ballers snag king’s title, Speightland win queen’s trophy

DC Ballers out-tussled LA Ballers 2-1 in a riveting toss-up final in the men’s category, while Speightland downed Dynamo 3-2 for the women’s section on the final evening of the One Guyana King and Queen Sand Football over the weekend.

The tournament saw the final being played on Saturday evening in front of a huge crowd in the compound of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Mackenzie Office, in Linden.

The male final was a tense contest after an early own-goal from an LA Ballers defender put DC Ballers up 1-0.

Moments after, a Colwyn Drakes shot crashed into the right upright, as LA Ballers tried valiantly to get on even terms; another drive, this time by Tyric McAllister, rebounded off the DC Ballers cross-bar with the goalkeeper well beaten.

The shockwaves continued as the stockily- built Zidane Ramdehol sent DC Ballers 2-0, up from a rasping drive in the 11th minute.

By now, the frenzied atmosphere had taken centrestage, and when Andre Mayers was able to reduce the lead of LA Ballers with a goal in the 16th minute for a 2-1 scoreline, the first half ended with the scores unchanged.

The second period continued with both sides trying to outdo each other, and while neither could add to their scores, it was the DC Ballers who triumphed in the end, 2-1, to cart off the $1M championship cash prize and the winners’ trophy.

Speightland girls had earlier defeated Dynamo, 3-2, in an exciting Queen’s final as they upturned a 2-0 half-time deficit, with Sheneesa Cornette getting a brace in the 35th and 39th minutes, following Nikita Wayne’s single strike in the 23rd minute for the champions.

Sandra Johnson, with a 5th minute strike, and Glendy Lewis had sent the Dynamo side to a 2-0 lead at the break.

Platinum, in the third-place playoff match, registered a 2-1 victory over YMCA through Kumar McLaren, who scored in the 13th minute, and an own-goal coming two minutes later. YMCA had earlier led after Keyshawn Dey netted in the 17th minute.

In the third-place game of the Queen’s final, Hururu won, 1-0, against Aroaima, with Nalini Fredericks scoring the lone goal of the game in the 5th minute of play.

(Joe Chapman)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

USA trainer ignites Rising Sun

... lands 2023 Horse of the Year title

DAMIAN Dharamjit closed the 2023 racing season on a history-making note, when he flew out of the gates with ‘jet’-propelled speed to start the new racing season.

Spankhurst, trained by Dharamjit, was voted Horse of the Year at the first-ever hosting of an awards ceremony to recognise equine and human excellence in the sport.

Trainer Dharamjit then rang in the New Year racing season by igniting Rising Sun Turf Club’s racecourse with fireworks of another kind, and it started with Twisted Jet in the second race rocketing out of starting gate to score in gateto-wire fashion with Colin Ross aboard for Jumbo Jet Stables.

In the third race, the aptly named Game Changer crushed importations, Nice Company and Queen Domina comfortably. This was the changer, as the naysayers’ condemnation that G-Class horses cannot beat importation was ridiculed. The stage was now set for the battle royale.

Dharamjit missed out on a Hi-5 of wins as his surefire winner, Spankhurst’s rider Ross jockeyship saved him from being dislodged from his mount. This incident happened as the six runners negotiated the paddock bend turn, where riders were vying for the best position to place their mounts.

Unfortunately, there was an infringement that hampered Spankhurst and Ross’ chances of success, as Ross’ riding skills saved him from being dislodged from his mount, and certain injury.

Dharamjit is a former USA-based trainer; he is not big in stature, but stands very tall in the sport of horse racing in his place of birth, Guyana.

Reliving his early childhood entry into the horse racing arena, he recounted, “I have been involved with horses from birth; my family were horse people. When I was about ten years, I started

horse named Street Prince 2012. As a two-year-old, he finished second to the Todd Pletcher-trained Forty Tales, which was one of the favourites heading to the Derby.

Forty Tales won in a quick

rudeen Mohamed). He is very busy with his business enterprise, and has passed on the baton.”

Asked what he has done since he took over the reins from Junior he said, “ Noth-

Damain Dharamjit (left), Jockey Colin Ross, and Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr. (right) to get more active. That is the time a youngster’s love for animal grows. I chose horses.”

The 55-year-old seasoned campaigner shared that his experiences in Guyana from a youth helped him with the success he enjoyed as owner/trainer when he got involved in horses in America.

He shared, “I was involved in horses’ ownership for close to 20 years in the USA, but only started training five years back.”

Recounting his journey, Damain, as he is called, said: “I bought young horses.

Most of them that I bought were two-year-olds, and not pricey. As you are aware, every trainer’s dream is to win the Derby, and more so, the Kentucky Derby or English Derby. I was no different, and my humble background, upbringing, and country of birth gave me more confidence.”

He explained, “I felt I had that opportunity with a

time; I was offered US$1.2 million, but turned down the offer. Some might argue that I was foolish, but it was the dream; not money.”

He continued, “I started preparing him with the Kentucky Derby in mind.

Unfortunately, he suffered an injury, and did not make it to the race. He returned to racing, but did not fully recover his promise. My Derby hope was gone.”

Dharamjit continued, “I bought inexpensive horses, but they proved to be financially lucrative. One such horse was See This Quick, who went on to earn over US$150,000. My exploits in Belmont Park, USA, had its share of challenges, but that is what strengthens us, and makes horse racing intriguing; the challenges.”

Switching leads from an international arena to home - Guyana to train horses he declared, “There isn’t anything like home. Two years ago I started to help my nephew, Junior(Nas-

ing really, I was always working with my nephew, so I knew the horses. Now I am fully in charge, but I keeps him informed how the horses are going, As horse racing is Junior’s passion, and his dream to see the sport grow, and become the best in the Caribbean one day.

As you are aware he(Junior and an interim team) are working to get legislation implemented to regulate the sport. So that horse racing in Guyana will be on the international map.”

Sharing advice to the youths who want to make horse racing their career he disclosed, “There isn’t any secret. Do not be afraid to ask question, because everyday you learn something about horses. Most of all hard work do pay off. If you don’t believe I think we have have a horse God to take care of everything.

There are instances you do not know what to do, and miracles happen. isn’t that God’s work?”

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 8, 2024

DCB’s SVC/PSC inter-association T20 cricket …

East Bank Eagles & GT Panthers register wins at Bourda

By Sean Devers

EAST Bank Eagles beat Upper Demerara Scorpions by eight wickets, while Georgetown Panthers demolished East Coast Canje Pheasants by 10 wickets in the Demerara Cricket Board’s Shaw Voltcom Construction Inc/Precision Service Centre Inc Inter-Association’s T20 cricket tournament on Sunday at Bourda.

In a one-sided encounter at a venue which produced West Indies’ first Test victory in 1930, the Eagles opted to bat in sweltering heat on a pitch with a bit of bounce, and were blown away for a paltry 39-9 when their innings closed in just 11 overs.

Renaldo Ali Mohammed, the 25-year-old former West Indies U-19 seamer, ran through the batting line-up like a sharp knife through butter with 7-5 from two overs.

Ali Mohammed, who took a single wicket in his two regional 50-over games for Guyana in 2019, captured career best figures yesterday due to steady bowling aided by very poor batting, and ripped out the last seven wickets as the Eagles catapulted from 30-2 in the ninth over to their embarrassing 39-9.

For the Eagles, Former West Indies Test opener Rajendra Chandraka, and Nicolas Shiopersaud both looked good, with the former, who played five Tests between June 2015 and July 2016, briefly showing his elegance.

Dwayne Dick made the breakthrough

Man-of-the-match Renaldo Ali Mohammed collects his trophy from DCB’s Treasurer Vicky Bharosay at 15-1 when he removed Shiopersaud (5), before Carlos LaRose bowled a short ball to Chandraka, which he dispatched over cover for four.

The next delivery was pitched up, and the East Coast Skipper, who scored 13 First-Class fifties and century before playing the last of his 60-First-Class in December 2016, executed a sublime straight-drive for back-to-back boundaries.

Dominic Glasgow (8) and Chandraka carried the score to 30, before LaRose, working

up some good pace, trapped Chandraka (11) with a perfect inswinger for Ali Mohammed to commence his demolition job.

When the Panthers began their chase of 40, former West Indies U-19 batter Raymond Pereez, and the left-handed Brandon Jaikarran, who replaced former Guyana batter Shemroy Barrington at the top of the order due to small victory target, provided their team with an emphatic victory, as galloped to 44-0 in 4.1 overs to keep their unbeaten streak intact.

Pereez continued his consistency from last year as he dominated the partnership, scoring 32 of the 44 runs scored by his team, while Jaikarran (10) looked solid as he played the supporting role.

Perez, who hit one four and three sixes from 17 balls, deposited Neeran Bani for a gigantic six with scores level, much to the delight of the raucous partisan GT fans.

Earlier, in the morning game, Scorpions, led by 32 from 22 balls with six fours from Nickosie Barker, an unbeaten 29 from Romeo Deonarain, 18 from Judell McAllister and 11 from skipper Gariel McDonald, reached 1227 off their allotted 20 overs.

Buddan Bakash and Quazim Yusuf had two wickets, each, for Eagles, who responded with 123-2 in 15.4 overs.

Man-of-the-Match Rickey Sargent played some classy shots in his unbeaten 52 from 42 balls decorated with four fours and a six, while former National U-19 left-hander

Man-of the Match Rickey Sargeant is presented with his trophy by GCA’s Shawn Massiah Shamar Yearwood finished undefeated, 25, with a six and a four in an unbroken partnership worth 57 runs.

Earlier, Ershad Ali contributed 34 from 18 with three sixes and three fours, before he was bowled by Barker at 60-2.

The final preliminary round is set for Saturday at the DCC. West Demerara will oppose Upper Demerara in the morning game from 09:00hrs, while GT faces off with East Bank from 13:00hrs.

The semi-finals are scheduled for Sunday at Bourda.

BCB/Ricky and Sons U11 tournament…

Rose Hall Town’s Poonai Pharmacy defeats Cotton Tree –– to face Albion in Final ROSE Hall Town’s Poonai Pharmacy defeated Cotton Tree Cricket Club by five wickets to advance to the finals of the historic Ricky and Sons business enterprise Under-11 cricket tournament.

Playing at the Chesney cricket ground, the Poonai Pharmacy team recovered from a shaky start with 34 for 5 in the fifth over to win with over 8 overs remaining.

Cotton Tree won the toss and elected to take first strike.

They lost opener Ricardo Laurie for one, when pacer Justin Lachigadu took a return catch with the score on 7 in the second over.

Apart from Trandit Dhani, who topscored with 17 with two boundaries, no other batsman reached double figures.

Austin Bridgelal (00), Fayad Gaffur (8), Afridi Khan 5, Sandeep Singh (3), and Afraz

Gaffur all fell cheaply.

Fadeen Khaliem (2) and Richie Laurie (1) were unbeaten when the 20 overs expired.

Justin Lachigadu took 2 for 9 from four impressive overs, while Jayden Ganpat claimed 3 for 16 with his left-arm spin. Dharvesh Narine, 1 for 21, and Khemraj Bharrat, 1 for 17, were the other wicket takers.

Needing to score 91 from 20 overs to reach the final, Rose Hall Town’s Poonai Pharmacy was ultra-aggressive, and found themselves in trouble at 34 of 5 in the 5th over.

Justin Lachigadu (6), Jermaine Bob (3), Vinesh Singh (5), and Dharvesh Narine (4) all fell cheaply, while Khemraj Bharrat seemed unlucky to be given caught-behind for 3.

From 34 to 5, a solid 6-wicket part-

nership between Akeem Fraser and Justin Hicks took their team home to victory.

Fraser ended on 20* with a single boundary, while the attractive looking Hicks was unbeaten on 25.

Bowling for Cotton Tree, Fayad Gaffur took 2 for 21, and Richie Laurie 2 for 19 from 2 overs.

The finals would be set on a date and venue to be decided by the competition committee of the Berbice Cricket Board.

The tournament is the first of its kind to be organised at that level by the county’s board, and forms a part of their developmental programme.

The BCB plans to organise a U-9 tournament in 2024, to go along with the U-11, U-13, U-15, U-17, and U-19, U-21 and U-23 tourneys.

Justin Hicks

DCB’s SVC/PSC inter-association T20 cricket …

East Bank Eagles & GT Panthers register wins at Bourda see story on page 23

Raymond Pereez drives during his unbeaten 32 yesterday at Bourda

One Guyana King and Queen Sand Football Finals…

DC Ballers snag king’s title, Speightland win queen’s trophy see story on page 22

Neesha Cornelius receiving the champions trophy from Minister Juan Edghill

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MONDAY, JANUARY 8, 2024