Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 08-06-2023

Contracts signed for rebuilding of Christ Church Secondary School

By Tamica Garnett

SEVEN contracts totalling $688.159 million were signed , on Wednesday , for the rebuilding of the Christ Church Secondary School , which was destroyed by fire in January of this year

The design of the new building will be within the footprint of the building that was destroyed, with the design for the new building being completed after a series of reviews

The construction is expected to take approximately seven months overall , with some innovative engineering and consultancy services expected to take two to three months Once completed , the building , which will measure 209 ft by 70 ft , will be three storeys high, with 20 classrooms and will have a capacity to accommodate between 450 - 520 students

The new building will be fitted with science labs, Information Technology labs , new model classrooms, and accommodation for teachers

The contracts for the rebuilding were signed at a brief signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Education ( MoE ) Boardroom , and was attended by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, MoE Permanent Secretary, Alfred King, and Chief Education Officer ( CEO ), Saddam Hussain , and Principal of Christ Church, Samantha Alleyne, along with the representatives from the respective contracting agencies

The seven contracts for the rebuilding exercise are shared between five contractors, with the largest contract of $ 303.595 million being for Lot 1- the Construction of the sub-structure, this contract was awarded to BM Property Investment Inc BM also

has a $17.6 million contract for Lot 4, which covers the installation of plumbing , infrastructure, and fittings Lot 2, which is for the super structure , went to Zeco Group of Services Inc and is worth $295.138 million

N Balgobin and Sons Contracting Service and Electrical Supplies , was awarded the $41.939 million contract for Lot 3Installation of Electrical

Infrastructure and Fixtures

Lot 5 - Installation of air conditioning infrastructure and units, is worth $10.745 million, and was awarded to A Ograsein and Sons General Contracting A Ograsein also has the contract for Lot 6 - Installation of Fire Prevention Units

The final component , Lot 7 - Masonry and finishing work , which is for $ 12.386 million was awarded to Pantheon Con-

struction Inc.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, the school Principal , Alleyne , expressed how elated she was to see this first step in the realisation of a new school for her students

“It’s the beginning of an exciting journey to see the contracts being signed and in the shortest possible time the students would be able to go back into the school that they know,” Alleyne

shared.

The displaced Christ Church students are currently being housed, temporarily, at the Cyril Potter College of Education ( CPCE ), in Turkeyen on the East Coast Demerara Alleyne explained that while the extended distance has affected the students, the school has tried to be accommodating by readjusting the time-table timings

“One of the challenges has been for the students to reach up there on time so what we have had to do is readjust our timetable, so instead of 9:00hrs they are going for 9:30hrs. So we’ve had to adjust our time right through the day, but they have been adjusting reasonably well and they are happy for the space , because now they have a larger area,” Alleyne related.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand (centre); Permanent Secretary, Alfred King (extreme left), Special Projects Officer, Mr Ron Eastman (extreme right), along with representatives of the contracting firms following the signing of the contracts

An artist’s impression of the proposed new Christ Church Secondary School building

An accountable City Hall stands to gain massive support from central gov’t - Jagdeo

By Tamica Garnett

CONTRARY to assertions that central government is not supportive of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a live interview on Wednesday, clarified that government is eager to financially assist City Hall if the new council is more accountable and transparent.

As discussion on the upcoming June 12 Local Government Elections (LGE) continued, Dr. Jagdeo appeared on a special broadcast interview hosted by Wendel Jeffrey on Channel 2. During the interview, Dr. Jagdeo laid out his party’s case for why it would do a better job of running the 30 seat Council that oversees the management of Georgetown.

Above all else, Dr. Jagdeo stressed that better accountability is the first thing citizens can look

forward to under a transformed City Council.

Plans of seeing statutory meetings being live streamed similar to sittings of Parliament, annually audited statements and the creation of electronic platform to track payments and financial records of City Hall are some plans on the cards under a PPP/C-led City Council.

“We said we will support the city council,” Dr. Jagdeo established

“We in our manifesto said that: one, city council meetings will be streamed; two, we will ensure that every interaction with City Hall… to control corruption and make it user-friendly, will be in an electronic platform. You can go check your records there, pay your taxes; do everything else.”

As it pertains to having money directly handed over to the Council from central government, Dr. Jagdeo pointed out that the council already struggles with accounting

for the money it already receives, while its reputation of mismanaging or redirecting funds provisioned for particular projects is well known.

Dr. Jagdeo questioned why City Hall has been running away from proper record keeping and annual audits.

“We pay the taxes to the city now and we give them some subvention every year. But if you give them any money often they find an alternate use for the money. If we have a council there that’s sympathetic; one that if you give them money to do drainage they ensure that they do drainage. And not only that they do the drainage but that they utilize people in the area to do it and then they account for it at the end of the year. The city council must have audited accounts. We managed from 1952 to restore audited accounts to the country; why they can’t do that at City hall?”

For over 27 years now, the City Council has been

dominated by the People’s National Congress (PNC).

However, notwithstanding the PNC’s dominance, the PPP has been incrementally making significant inroads in Georgetown, as well as a number of other traditional PNC strongholds. In the 2016 LGE, the PPP/C won two out of 30 seats, while in the subsequent 2018 LGEs, they won seven seats.

As this year’s LGE rolls around, the PPP has been doing much to ap-

peal to the city’s citizenship for a chance to prove that it can do a much better job than what the PNC has been delivering during their years at the helm.

According to Dr. Jagdeo, in previous years, the PNC has used race rhetoric and rumors to turn their supporters away from listening to anything the PPP has had to say, but as persons see the development they are looking beyond rumors, and are even surprised to learn just how much de-

velopment plans the PPP has in place.

“A number of questions came up and I’ve explained my position to persons. So they said why you didn’t tell us this before 2015 and I said we were saying it but you probably were not listening. And one [person] who was a PNC activist even said to me you know it’s true every time I see you on television I’ll switch the channel. We were characterised as racist. I’m known as Satan on the PNC platform. So these rumors through whisper campaigns people start seeing you in a particular way so no matter what you say they don’t believe you. They don’t even want to listen to you,” Dr. Jagdeo said. However, as citizens become wary of the PNC’s lack of proper management of the city, and failure to deliver on their promises, the tides are turning; people have begun to listen to the PPP’s message, Dr. Jagdeo said.

Belmont fire claims lives of siblings left home alone

SIBLINGS Animika Hardat, nine, and Shameena Hardat, three, tragically lost their lives on Wednesday in a devastating fire that engulfed their home in Belmont, Mahaica, East

crew from the Mahaica Fire Station were immediately dispatched to the location.

The building involved was a two-storey wooden and concrete building owned by Ayube Mohamed Khan and was occupied by 79-year-old Zaman Khan and his family of 11.

“The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time and investigations are being carried out by the Fire Prevention Department. As a result of the fire the building and its contents were destroyed and two children lost their lives,” the GFS said in a release.

Wednesday morning, she had taken Animika and Shameena to have their pictures taken, intending to get passports for them. After returning home, she left for Georgetown to purchase school supplies for her children.

It was during her shopping excursion she received

that my house on fire. I couldn’t believe, I couldn’t understand what they was telling me. I just could seh I was in town, yall see what’s the best yall could do because I won’t have reach home in time… I don’t know what happened there…” the woman said.

The woman raised sus-

According to Hardat, the same neighbour had set her house on fire last year and had also physically assaulted her, resulting in the loss of one of her fingers.

Recalling the distressing events, Hardat disclosed that the police were involved, leading to the neighbour’s arrest and his subsequent imprisonment.

However, she expressed concern and distress as the neighbour had recently been released from prison.

type of kids wah is misbehave…. They don’t play with matches or anything,” Khan said.

He further explained that the bodies of the children were tragically burnt beyond recognition, and the fire had destroyed everything in the house.

Coast Demerara.

The heart-breaking incident occurred while the children were left alone by their parents, who had gone out to run errands.

According to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the fire was reported at 13:07hrs. on Wednesday and water tender #106 and

The Fire Service said that two siblings were left alone at home and little Anamika’s disability made it difficult for her to exit the house.

Speaking to the media, the grieving mother Shabeeka Hardat shared the harrowing details of the day. She revealed that her two daughters were left alone at home while their two brothers were attending school.

the unimaginable call informing her of the fire that had engulfed their home.

“I get this phone call

picion over the cause of the fire, and shared a disturbing account revealing a history of conflict with a neighbour.

Before his incarceration, Hardat claimed that the neighbour had issued threats against her and her family, indicating a continued threat to their safety.

Meanwhile, the stepfather of the victims, Feroz Khan, expressed the family’s disbelief and shock, as the children had often been left alone before.

“We still na believe. For the past couple years that kids does stay alone, they can handle they self…We na expect this would have happened. They is na the

Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony visited the grieving family members and expressed government’s commitment to support the family through this difficult time.

Meanwhile, the GPF said that it is saddened over the loss of these two young lives and continues to advise citizens to exercise caution and follow safety measures to avoid home fires.

The GFS stressed that children should be educated on the dangers of fire starters (matches and lighters) and warned about their use.

It also warned that children should not be left alone or at home without adult supervision.

The grieving mother Shabeeka Hardat

Three-year-old Shameena Hardat and nine-year-old Animika Hardat

PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Fire Service launches fire safety inspection at school dorms, hostels nationwide

IN its ongoing commitment to enhance fire safety measures , the Guyana Fire Service ( GFS ) has embarked on a comprehensive inspection campaign targetting school dormitories and hostels countrywide. Public Relations Officer of the GFS, Silyne Griffith told the Department of Public Information ( DPI ), on Wednesday, that the dorms and hostels are also being equipped with the necessary fire safety equipment

To date , inspections were conducted at locations

including the University of Guyana , President ’ s College, Dennis Irvine Hall of Residence , as well as the Mahaicony , Paramakatoi and Anna Regina dormitories , Essequibo Technical Institute, Aurora Secondary, Charity Secondary , Three Miles Secondary , and the Bartica Secondary School dormitories

Hostels including the Supenaam , Suddie , Anna Regina, and Charity facilities were also examined. Similar exercises will be conducted at other facilities to ensure there is fire

prevention equipment

The GFS has also conducted several outreaches at various markets to educate persons on fire safety and prevention Several outreaches were conducted at the Kitty, Mahaica, and Mon Repos Markets to date

On Saturday last, over 500 Mon Repos residents benefitted from this public awareness programme

In addition , 136 individuals received free blood pressure and blood sugar testing, that were administered by the service’s Emergency Medical Technicians

( EMTS ) on the ground at the Mon Repos market

Persons also had the opportunity to interact with senior officers including Chief Fire Officer (ag), Gregory Wickham , to learn about fire safety “ The Guyana Fire Service will continue to conduct outreaches at markets as we strive to reach as many citizens as possible, both young and old, and educate everyone about the dangers of fires, thus preventing them from happening,” the GFS said. (DPI)

Central Mahaicony LGE candidates unveil community manifestos to transform Region Five –– underscore further community development, accountability, better infrastructure

By Naomi Parris

WITH plans to further transform the landscape of Region Five ’ s health , education, and agriculture sectors , several People ’ s Progressive Party / Civic (PPP/C) candidates contesting in the upcoming June 12 local government polls have outlined their community manifestos

Speaking at a public meeting, on Monday, held at Novar/Dundee, Mahaicony, Sandra Glasgow appealed to citizens to not underestimate her youthful appearance

“Do not look at me and say I ’ m too young to represent a constituency I am going to be a name on your list for a very long time, I am going to be your mouth piece I will be the person carrying the issues to the council to represent you,” she said

Glasgow is among several persons contesting to represent the constituents of central Mahaicony “ I am standing here to reassure you that you have a

representative that is willing to work with you for the development of central Mahaicony and its surrounding areas I am prepared to listen to everyone and to take recommendations and to take advice ,” she told the large gathering

Glasgow outlined she intends to work closely with residents to advance the agriculture, health, and education sectors to ensure that all residents can benefit from various projects and programmes implemented by the regional and central government

“ We are not going to leave anyone behind, we are going to work with the seniors, juniors and we are even going to work with those who doesn’t even want to work with us,” she said.

Meanwhile, Melisa Bissessar who is also contesting in the local government polls,

urged residents to give her a chance as she intends to rally for further community enhancement projects

“Throughout this region we have seen development across every sector We have seen development in the infrastructure sector , the agriculture sector , including drainage and irrigation,” she said adding:

“Come June 12 2023, we are voting for transparency, we are voting for accountability, we will be voting for strong representation at the NDC level and most importantly we will be voting for community development.”

Meanwhile, in endorsing the party’s LGE candidates, chairman of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Vickchand Ramphal urged residents to give the candidates a chance “ We have some young

candidates and they are fully prepared and they are ready to work for you They are ready to bring development to all the NDCs at region number five.”

Describing the young and diverse group as hardworking , Ramphal assured the residents that they will deliver on their promises

He urged residents to look at the ongoing development.

“We have seen a number of roads being constructed in this region You name it , from farm - to - market to community roads, to access to health centres, to communities, etcetera,” he said

“There are a number of added projects that is taking place in Region Five right now that will transform the landscape of our region,” the regional official added Ramphal further stressed the importance of the upcoming elections and urged residents to show up in their numbers to ensure that development in the region continues.

Cash grant recipients: ‘It shows we have a caring government’

SCORES of parents and guardians of children attending schools at Friendship, Grove, and Diamond on the East Bank Demerara on Wednesday commended the government’s ‘ Because We Care ’ cash grant

Each child is receiving $40,000 to offset the expenses of items needed for the new school term ; $ 35,000 under the ‘Because We Care’ initiative and $5,000 for the purchase of school uniforms and supplies

Janette Cumberbatch , 77, told the Department of Public Information ( DPI ) that the grant will provide tremendous support for her 14 - year - old grandson Michael Cumberbatch

“The mother and I help to maintain him along with the help of the cash grant It will help to buy two pants with two shirts , cause the rest will stay to help him go to school because he still got to eat the whole year, so we are thankful,” Cumberbatch stated

Candace Nelson, a mother of two, said that although she receives support from her partner , it is often expensive to cover her children’s school expenses She sang praises for the financial support provided by the government

“I am elated because it’s a great initiative to assist parents, especially those with school-age children It is a great initiative and this for me will go towards my children’s education This cash grant will be able to fill the gap So, I am very happy and thankful to the government for it.”

She commended the government for increasing the grant . “ It shows that we have a government who cares , one who takes into consideration the growing cost of living.”

Meanwhile, on the verge of tears, mother of four Eulena John expressed that the

cash is of great assistance to her

“The grant will help me in many ways to buy school clothes and whatsoever It’s a good thing because you know

some of us don ’ t have the money to buy school clothes and things like that so it is good,” she said For Urnlina Bradford , “Since I collect last year, it

help me out a lot because I getting to buy what my children need.”

The government’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grant will benefit over 214,000

children in public and private schools countrywide, placing some $ 8.6 billion in disposable income in the hands of parents and guardians. (DPI)

Sandra Glasgow Melisa Bissessar

Simply the Best!

THE Guyana Government isn’t in the business of beating its own drum regarding its already-acknowledged place, by any measurement, as the fastest growing economy in the world. Instead, it has consistently used the accolades to indicate it’s just the beginning of implementation of its long-term vision for Guyana that started in 2020.

The global acknowledgments of Guyana’s increasing pace of development in 2023 follows similar performances in each year since this PPP/Civic administration returned to the helm of the ship of state; and while it can easily be said it all has to do with

Oil & Gas earnings, it’s also more to do with the management of the incomes from the republic’s new energy resources.

Naturally, not all are happy with Guyana’s global rankings, so some entities find unorthodox ways and means to place it lower down the ranks.

Take the most recent assessment of the Top 10 ‘fastest growing economies’ referred to in a recent report quoting International Monetary Fund (IMF) figures to skillfully lower Guyana’s ranking by putting a non-nation ahead, placing China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) in top place among nations of the world.

According to a June 2, 2023 article by Yash

Sharma for BSEHExam. Org (Best Social Education Helper for Exams), the Top 10 ‘fastest-growing economies in the world’ by IMF measurements, are: Macao SAR [58.9%] and Guyana [37.2%], followed by Libya [17.5], Palau [8.7%], Senegal [8.3%]; Maldives [7.2%]; Fiji [7%]; Democratic Republic of Congo [6.3%]; Côte d’Ivoire [6.2%] and Rwanda [6.2%].

First of all, what the report doesn’t make clear is that ‘Macao SAR’ is part of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), so whatever economic miracles achieved there are part of the PRC’s overall national economic plan, as with other SARs in China.

This therefore removes any case for special treat-

ment of Macao outside of acknowledging its part of China’s ongoing tradition of annual economic growth, including now, when the rest of the world is facing post-COVID Supply Chain and Ukraine economic trauma with increased food and energy prices and increased hunger.

Secondly, when Macao is excluded, the statistics show Guyana with almost a 20-point lead ahead of the next qualifying country, with all the rest in single digits.

China is one of the earliest nations to express doubt about the accuracy of using only Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as an appropriate international yardstick to measure true national economic development. But

while many other similar concerns exist and have been repeatedly punctuated at the IMF, World Bank, World Economic Forum, G-77, Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and other North-South or international economic gatherings and entities, it’s still the dominant measurement.

Guyana well understands the vagaries of the continuing changes in the global economic and financial climate and the need for adjustments along the way, which is why it’s been able to achieve such milestones under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Brigadier General (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party

(PPP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Senior Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and the Ministry of Finance, state planners and finance and economics analysts, etc. who’ve led the way to make it happen.

That’s why (to quote the late superstar Tina Turner) Guyana is repeatedly rated worldwide, over time, as “Simply the Best” and “Better than all the rest…”

And that’s also yet another reason Guyanese interested in the nation’s future are deciding, faster than ever and like never before, to continue to support, or join in support of, the PPP/Civic administration’s slates for next Monday’s Local Government Elections (LGE), across Guyana.

Remembering the things that changed our lives

Dear Editor,

AS a young man growing up in Sophia, a community that was heavily populated and dominated by children whose lives differed greatly from those in other developed communities, I have always cherished the fond memories of the Christmas season and the endless possibilities of hope it offered me. Sophia was then deemed underdeveloped because of its lack of adequate infrastructure, including proper sanitation, safe water supply, electricity and street drainage. Despite

the hard reality of our lives, the children rallied with excitement during the Christmas season, as they knew that Christmas Day was fast approaching, and the Sophia Annual Christmas party was a sure event.

The Christmas party was an annual event hosted at the residence of Ms.Cameron, a volunteer and social activist in ‘B’ Field, Sophia. This party was sponsored by the children of Hope Outreach Programme run by Ms. Cameron. This party catered to and touched the lives of hundreds of children throughout the

community.

The then President and now Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo made it his duty to attend. This made the day for us to know the then president would join us and sit on the floor of my mother's living room to have pepperpot and bread with us. It was a joy to see and be a part of that. When Christmas was finished, the talk of the day was the President who took time out from his busy schedule to spend time with us, the children of Sophia on Christmas Day was an honour.

It made us feel we mattered. Even though the

roof made of old zinc was leaking, we mattered, we were human, it gave us hope. And it made a big impact in our lives today to dream outside the box that all things are possible. His generosity and dedication to this event cemented my mind and the minds of many others who experienced these festivities. The children would then get engaged in games, singing, etc., were served lunches and were presented with their gifts and they left. The smiles on their faces were priceless and for this one day all their worries went away. This would

be their day and would be constantly brought up until the next year.

So, I felt a way when I see people trying to make him out to be a hater of black people. Jagdeo never asked for our votes and never brought the press/ media, but he was there every Christmas. In fact, I never voted for the PPP/C (People Progressive Party/ Civic) until the last election,

Although my mother told us about what happened in the 1990 when I was about three-yearsold she was a squatter residing in Sophia ,where

David Granger lead the army and they came and broke down our houses and beat some of the people in the village ,where she had to hide with me along with my brother and sister in trenches until they were gone. President Cheddi Jagan then sold the people in Sophia house lots for only ($8000) eight thousand Guyana dollars. Much as needed in my life and in the lives of Guyanese but nothing I would gain by lying on this man and spreading hate.

Sincerely

Jermaine Cameron

The PNC can never raise the flag of “Dignity, Honesty and Integrity”

Dear Editor, AT the 27th sitting of the 10th Parliament, 14 June, 2012, in addressing the speaker of the House, PPP/C Parliamentarian Dr Persaud said, “Integrity is defined as adherence to moral and ethical principles, soundness of moral character, and in one word, honesty. Today, we as Parliamentarians sit in the most august assembly in this land with the confidence reposed in us by the electorate. Guyanese of all walks of life, from the length and breadth of this country. We have the responsibility to ensure that every transaction and everything we do in this House is done with transparency and accountability. The Integrity Commission Law was given priority by the PPP/Civic Government early upon its entry into the National Assembly.”

Vice-President, Dr. Bharat Jagdeo, also General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), had a reasonable cause of great consternation to make reference last week to the Integrity Commission and the mandatory submission of declaration by public officials. In fact, the Bill provides for the President, all Members of Parliament, Min-

isters, Permanent Secretaries, Civil Servants, and servants to file entries of income from whatever source. This Bill brings people from various categories under the legislation and makes it mandatory for annual declarations to be filed on or before the 30th of June. That is the law. Any law-abiding Guyanese would imagine that those elected and appointed officials would want to comply with the law and do what is right as required by the country and also, to set a precedent for the other citizens to follow. Think again folks, that’s not the case in its entirety.

According to the Integrity Commission, 828 submissions are still reportedly outstanding, and this is despite a four-month extension. Dr. Jagdeo observed that this was the highest number of delinquencies over the past five years. What’s so amazing, appalling and atrocious is that, there were three years under the former PNC Government when no declarations were submitted. And yes, the PNC is talking about transparency and accountability.

Who initially hid the US$18 million bonus from Exxon from the public? Who was running on a platform of “honesty and integrity?” Who secretly signed that lopsided

oil contract and refused to say who authorized its permission? Who quietly sold lands illegally and cheaply and misused the people’s money when they were functioning as “caretakers?” Who declared themselves winners on the night of March 2nd 2020 General and Regional Elections? Who went into the streets of Georgetown proclaiming victory? To date, who has failed to submit, reveal and declare the SoPs? Who campaigned that they will protect workers and then saw Guyana losing thousands of jobs in all the industries put together. Who fired over 2000 Amerindian workers? Who fooled the people in Berbice and caused over 40,000 people to be on the breadline by extension? Who closed the sugar estates, starting with Leonora in the 1980s? Who put Guyanese, young, old, weak and sick to line up for basic food items? Who froze wages in the Burnham era? Who caused a large exodus of Guyanese from all ethnicities to migrate from this land to seek shelter, happiness and peace in foreign lands? Who was responsible for burning Georgetown in the 60s? Who instigated the Wismar Massacre? Who was the architect of so many brutal murders including, Rodney,

Hamilton Green’s letter fails to address specific assertions on people of African descent

Dear Editor, MY attention was drawn to a letter from Mr. Hamilton Green, which takes issue with my rebuttal of certain assertions made by Mr. Darren Wade and Mr. Nigel Hughes to the Second Session of the United Nation’s Permanent Forum of People of African Descent held during the period May 31-June 2, 2023.

In my original letter, I outlined six specific assertions made by Messrs. Wade and Hughes which, I maintain were manifestly false. In taking issue with my response, Mr. Green has not addressed a single one of those specific matters. Instead, he has “invited” me to join him on an excursion into a number of other enquiries, which, with all respect due to Mr. Green, I decline to do.

The fact is that many of

the issues Mr. Green raised have been the subject of fruitless, perhaps even futile discussions focused on apportioning blame in some cases for almost 70 years. In addressing the inaccurate comments made last week, I find little utility in referring to contested versions of events which occurred as far back as 1957.

Mr. Green ascribes to me, ignorance of certain issues which obviously loom large in his conception of our national journey. While I am well aware of the conventional wisdom that those who knoweth not their history are doomed to repeat it, there is an equally compelling wisdom which holds that history is capable of entrapping and imprisoning us in the past.

In the final analysis however, I can assure Mr. Green that there is one thing of which I

Teekah, Field-Ridley and others? Who continuously rigged elections? Who took to the streets and created mayhem, havoc, chaos and confusion to instill fear with their violence when displeased with election results? Who raped, assaulted and maimed Guyanese women of a particular ethnicity and got away with their monstrosities when they lost elections? The answer is blowing in the wind!

Mr. Who is you know Who!

And the “Who” list is endless, “From Here To Eternity,” not pointing fingers but revealing and reflecting the anomalies of those knights in shining armour who defend their characters by preaching, “Do as I say, not as I do!” Those are the ones “living and enjoying the good life,” while the man in the street has to abide with the law and struggle to survive. Dr Jagdeo said “He supports any ongoing

consideration by the Integrity Commissions to publish the names of defaulters.” This will lend support to transparency. Don’t hold your breath folks. The Integrity Commission also stated that there are 17 members of Parliament (MPs) who have defaulted by failing to provide their declarations. “I called Gail Teixeira [Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance] because we made it clear… she said to me that all PPP members submitted…so the 17 must be from the other side,” Dr. Jagdeo clarified.

Why is it that only the PPP/C party members know how to do the right thing?

Why is it only the PPP/C party members know how to lead by example? Why is it that the Opposition cannot comply with basic requirements when they are still looked upon for guidance by a handful? Why is it the Opposition cannot for

once in a lifetime advertise a clean slate? Why this double talk and “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” act? Guess some things cannot change, it’s the DNA and the food for survival! Supposedly, no one goes to “Sunday School” anymore!

The PNC can never raise the flag of “Dignity, Honesty and Integrity.” They are incapable of such profound morality and lack the culpability of promulgating any honourable intention. They are quite comfortably domiciled with shame, disgrace and embarrassment. History is an experienced subject. Dr. Persaud at the 10th Parliament reminded us of a quote from Alan Simpson, “If you have integrity nothing else matters. If you do not have integrity nothing else matters.”

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall.

am certainly not “blissfully unaware,” and that is of his own, not insignificant, contribution to difficulties we continue to face as a nation.

It should go without saying that the government of the PNC between the years 1964 to 1992 did nothing to address specific issues confronting people of African descent. As for the APNU+AFC government of 2015-2020, notwithstanding Mr. Hughes’ submission to the Permanent Forum that the aborted Land CoI was the “only” progress made by the state in addressing African issues, their best attempt may well have been the passage of Act No. 13 of 2017 – The Prime Minister Hamilton Green Pension Act 2017. Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond

Questionable scholarship

THERE is a new newspaper columnist on the scene. His name is Dr, Bertrand Ramcharan. But just when you expected scholarship to produce analysis and objectivity, Guyana continues to see political bias passing for dispassionate assessments.

I had no relationship with this gentleman whatsoever, but on Saturday, April 2, 2022, I received an email from him which stated; “Please go

lightly on the GHRA. If MacCormack did not do it, which local Guyanese would have the dedication to do so. Something for you to reflect on.”

Confused is not the right word to describe my attitude. What was this email all about I asked myself? I never corresponded with this gentleman. I never had a scholarly exchange with him on anything.

I was annoyed that someone with his intellectual achievements could send me

such a misleading request. I live in Guyana. I have operated on the human rights horizon since I was 16 years old. For the past 20 years, I know of no admirable activism of the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) that would cause me to show even a modicum of admiration for the GHRA and its permanent chairman, Mr. Mike McCormack.”

Here is my reply to Dr. Ramcharran’s 2022 email; “… your mind was not applied

to Guyana when Guyana needed you. You did not bat for democracy for 5 months. And then when you did bat was for a human rights (redacted) like McCormack. You have to live with your conscience and hypocrisy. At my age, I could do without the likes of you. I am too old for dialogue with your type. You need to redeem yourself in the eyes of the Guyanese people. You need to publicly ask McCormack why the he and the GHRA was (sic) silent for those five months. Nothing less will suffice. Of course you would not do it. I know your kind. Regards. F. K.”

To date Dr Ramcharan did not find the time or courtesy to explain to me why he and Mc Cormack were silent during the election rigging. In his recent column, Ramcharan waxed lyrical about the GHRA. He informed his readers that there is a book just out describing the role of human rights NGOs worldwide by a publishing house named “Brill” and the GHRA is included.

The goodly doctor did not tell us who compiled the volume and what research they did in Guyana. Then, as you read on in the

column, the true nature of Ramcharan is revealed. The GHRA’s performance, activism and achievements are painted in such a saccharine, glossy and rosy fashion that the chapter on the GHRA appeared to have been submitted to “Brill” by the GHRA itself or maybe or possibly by Ramcharan himself.

Ramcharan doesn’t live in Guyana so I guess he does not know about the invisibility of the GHRA, or if he knows about its decades of dormancy, he should know that the GHRA only comes alive because the Stabroek News brings it alive. It is called the solidarity among members of the Mulatto/Creole class. I would like to inform Ramcharan that he needs to take a look at what Vincent Alexander said about that class on the Gildarie-Freddie Kissoon show last Monday and which is available on Youtube. Readers will know Alexander is no friend of the government.

It is sad that a man who once was the Chancellor of UG and worked as a human rights official at the UN could jeopardize his intellectual standing by maximising the

triumphs of the GHRA which simply do not exist. Could Ramcharan be accused of insulting Guyanese? I doubt it. No one in Guyana knows Ramcharan so he persuades no one in Guyana.

The day before his column on the GHRA, Ramcharan was at it. And by “at it” I mean damaging his “scholarship.” He wrote that in Guyana, there is “a consistent pattern of vicious attacks on civil society organisations.” Here now I am going to abandon suitable grammar and use a term that I think neatly fits Ramcharan. He is a propagandist.” And I am going further. He is not fit to pronounce on Guyana because he does not live here, does not do research here and thus cannot paint a picture of a country he has no relation with.

Who in Guyana viciously attacks civil society organisations? What type of civil society groups we have in Guyana and what do the Guyanese people think of them. I urge Ramcharan to listen to an interview in which Professor Clive Thomas referred to some civil society groups as manifesting crass inhumanity.

Mohamed’s pioneers state-of-theart office facility in Georgetown

and as the economy rises so should our standards as well.

The businessman continued: “Guyana is recognised for its oil and gas, tourism, culture, the people and our hospitality and I believe that we should use that as a motivation for us to raise our standards in business as well as ourselves and want to do better.”

By Cindy Parkinson

GIVEN that Guyana has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, both international and local businessmen are taking advantage of the investment opportunities the nation offers.

Local businessman and one of Guyana’s most prominent entrepreneurs, Azruddin Mohamed of Mohamed’s Enterprise, is currently constructing a modern, state-of-theart, multi-million-dollar office complex at Camp and Lamaha Streets in Georgetown.

After paying a visit to the construction site on Tuesday, the businessman told the Guyana Chronicle, in an exclusive interview, that he was thrilled

to see how quickly the work is progressing. According to his estimation, he explained that 50 percent of the construction has been finished and he is very optimistic that the structure will be completed in the first quarter of 2024.

Like all of Mohamed’s investment, he explained that it is not just about erecting a building, but it is about transforming the landscape of the respective area. He also related that the government has put Guyana in a position where the local businessman like himself can invest comfortably, knowing that the possibilities are endless.

The business mogul also stated that the business community is getting

an opportunity to create employment for their countrymen, which, according to him, is a plus for their families and the nation.

Mohamed further explained that he became interested in erecting the state-of-the-art office facility due to the high demand for office space because of the “rapid development of the country’s economy.”

He said “we have an oil and gas sector that is flourishing, and it is only fitting that we, as a country, and as business owners, provide the best standards, amenities, and service to keep up with an already demanding economy. We need to remember that times are changing, and we need to keep up

According to Mohamed, the eight-storey office complex will be one of international standards as well as one that will be fully equipped with all the required amenities such as lunch and conference rooms, kitchenettes, toilet facilities and much more.

Mohamed related that the health and safety of workers in the workplace is a priority for him, which is why he said that he has ensured that the building is also equipped with the necessary fire protection equipment as well as different entrance and exit points. The building will also be outfitted with an elevator and a designated parking area on the ground floor.

An artist’s impression of the multimillion-dollar, eight-storey office complex

Mohamed’s Enterprise 8 Storey office structure

Proprietor Azruddin Mohamed inspecting the foundation of the garage on the ground floor

Guyana’s $5,000 Banknote wins Best New Banknote award

THE Bank of Guyana has won the Best New Banknote award for its upgraded $5,000 banknote, in recognition of its innovation and design.

Guyana received the LATAM ‘Best New Banknote Award’ at the High Security Print Conference in Nassau in the Bahamas. The award, granted annually, acknowledges exceptional achievements in banknote technology and aesthetics.

The newly released banknote, although retaining the same design as its predecessor, incorporates several cutting-edge security features.

Notably, the previous DualTrack™ thread on the reverse and holographic stripe on the front have been replaced with a state-ofthe-art 5mm wide Pulsar™ thread, developed by Oberthur Fiduciaire. This upgrade marks the first use of the Pulsar colourshift thread in a circulating note.

The introduction of the

Pulsar thread introduces dynamic movement, vibrant colours, and striking optical effects to the banknote. By combining two colours with micro-optics, the thread creates a synchronized gold-to-

The Bank of Guyana’s upgraded banknote stood out among the competition due to its innovative use of advanced security technologies and its captivating design elements. The addi-

green colour shift, enhancing both the security and visual appeal of the currency.

Furthermore, the upgraded $5,000 banknote boasts the inclusion of a SPARK® Live Truspin image, featuring the national animal of Guyana, the majestic jaguar. This SPARK feature adds an additional layer of security, ensuring the banknote’s authenticity.

tion of the Pulsar thread and the SPARK® Live Truspin image not only enhance the banknote’s security against counterfeiting but also create a visually stunning and engaging experience for banknote users.

The upgraded $5,000 banknote was marked as a significant milestone in Guyana’s monetary landscape.

Man attempts suicide in court after being found guilty of child-rape charges

WESLEY Bazil, commonly known as “Trappy,” shocked the courtroom on Wednesday at the Demerara Sexual Offences

age of 16.

After three hours of deliberation, on Wednesday, a 12-member jury reached a unanimous decision find-

intervened, successfully disarming Bazil and preventing further harm.

However, Bazil became unconscious and had to be rushed to the hospital for medical attention. He is currently receiving treatment under guard.

Court when he attempted suicide moments after being found guilty of rape charges.

Bazil, who is a businessman and shop owner, was on trial before Justice Navindra Singh at the Demerara High Court, facing charges of engaging in sexual activity with a child and the rape of a child under the

ing Bazil guilty on both charges. He was remanded to prison to await sentencing.

In an emotionally charged moment, Bazil reacted to the verdict by producing a razor blade and attempting to slit his own throat. However, the swift response of court officers averted a tragedy as they

According to reports, during the month of December, 2020, the victim, 15 at the time, went to Bazil’s shop and he would often sexually molest her. However, during the month of January 2021, the teen was sent to the shop by her parents and Bazil took her to the back of his yard and raped her.

Two months after, the matter was reported to the police after the victim’s parents found her cell- phone and saw the teen’s messages confiding in a friend about the incident.

The state was represented by prosecutors Nefeeza Baig, Tiffani Lyken and Praneta Seeraj.

The $5,000 note

Senior Finance Minister hosts Government delegation from Qatar

SENIOR Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Wednesday, led a Government team with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a meeting with a visiting Qatari Government delegation led by Head of the Caribbean and South American Division from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Qatar, Shafi Newaimi M.N. Al-Hajri.

The team is in Guyana to meet and discuss several developmental opportunities and projects, and their visit serves as a follow-up to His Excellency President Irfaan Ali’s recent visit to Qatar where he met and held discussions with Qatar’s Emir, His

Highness Sheikh Tamim

bin Hamad Al Thani and members of his Cabinet at the Amiri Diwan Palace in Doha and had opened a Guyana Embassy in that country.

President Ali, during the momentous occasion, noted that Guyana and Qatar share a number of similarities including promoting peace, stability and sustainability. During that visit, Dr. Singh had accompanied the President, while Guyana and Qatar had advanced discussions on a number of investments and development sectors.

The Qatari delegation, while here, will participate in various meetings with Government and private sector

stakeholders with a number of presentations on development areas and projects in Guyana to be

made. The team will also be taken on tours of several investment projects.

Also present at the

engagement were Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and other senior officials

from the Ministries of Finance, Foreign Affairs, and Agriculture.

Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, (centre) flanked by the Qatari Government delegation and Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and other senior officials from the Ministries of Finance, Foreign Affairs, and Agriculture

Competent community leaders needed to support development

- says Minister Edghill

By Cindy Parkinson

LOCAL community leadership is not as strong as it should be and the Local Government Election (LGE) is of vital importance to the people of Guyana since it gives them an opportunity to elect a person who has a genuine love and interest for the people in their constituency/ community, according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

According to him, “one

recreational grounds are in order and the children of the communities are taken care of, to ensure that the garbage is collected, to ensure that the canals, drains, and trenches are well-kept and that people are not affected by floods.

Minister Edghill has given reassurances that if citizens elect persons with the requisite vision when they cast their ballots at the LGE, then all communities countrywide will experience rapid transformation.

In highlighting the sentiments he shared with the people of Region Six

the residents of Buxton. The minister said that the false narrative that APNU is trying to paint about the people of certain communities cannot work any longer.

communities that I have visited expressed how pleased they were about the intervention of the PPP/C and the presence of Government Ministers in engagements with them, on a one-on-one level. They are happy because many of these residents said that they have never seen any APNU member in their communities.”

He also pointed out to residences of Buxton that a four-lane highway will be going through their community from the railway embankment and there will be an industrial development not far from the village which will increase the opportunities for employment for the young people in Buxton

will want to live close to their worksite.

Apart from that, Minister Edghill explained to the people that there will be endless opportunities in the oil and gas sector and the government will need over 1000 certified welders. He stated that the government will also need persons to go to Port Mourant in Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne) to work on the school that will be established there.

Minister Edghill said “with the great work that the Minister of Agriculture was doing, and knowing that Buxtonians are agricultural minded people with a number of farmers in the community, the PPP/C government plans

work to be done, but the task was for the government to have a reliable and competent team that Central government can work with so that the young people of all races can get meaningfully engaged in jobs and constructive activities that will help in the betterment of their lives and their future.

Minister Edghill and other government officials also met with the people of Cummings Lodge, the corner of Bent Street and Louisa Row, and Turningpoint Georgetown. There, they listened to the concerns of the residents and reassured them that the government of Guyana would ensure that the quality of their lives and

of the weaknesses that we have discovered is that the leadership at the local level of the community is not what it should be. If there is no adequate local leadership, it puts pressure on the central government; that means that the central government will have to address everything, such as matters at the community level, and the matters that can be addressed at the regional level will have to come to the central government as well. “

He also related that LGE is a matter of getting the right people to administer the affairs of the communities throughout Guyana. “That simply means that we want people to ensure that the

(East Berbice-Corentyne), along with communities that include Pepper Street, Glasgow, Glasgow Housing Scheme, Stanley Town, New Amsterdam, Norton and Victor Streets, Lodge, Linden and the community of Buxton on the East Coast of Demerara, Minister Edghill noted all communities need proper representation.

He advised them to elect candidates who have a vision for their community, represent the people, ensure their needs are met, and support a progressive platform offered by PPP/C, rather than persons who prioritise their own interests.

According to him, he is especially impressed with

He noted that “I have admired the way Buxtonians conducted themselves. We were able to keep a meeting in Buxton; PPP/C flags are up and flying, and there was not a single destruction. The people proudly wore their red t-shirts; they stood and listened, and I am proud to say that Buxtonians and all the communities are positively receiving our messages.”

Minister Edghill: “We are delivering on our promises and when the meetings were over, several residents engaged me and expressed how grateful they were for the work that the government is doing. Buxtonians and all the

as well as neighbouring communities.

According to the Minister, the initiative will also cause the property value to rise and people will also be interested in renting since many people

to open up the back lands and provide a living that is based upon the villagers’ lives being improved by making money.”

Finally, the Public Works Minister said that there was still a lot more

that of the communities are improved under their governance.

Minister Edghill said that his meetings with the residents of the communities thus far have been very productive.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, engages the residents of Pepper Street, Glasgow Housing Scheme, Region Six

Residents of Stanley Town, New Amsterdam (Region 6) with Minister Edghill

Minister Edghill listens to the people of Buxton during his visit

‘Days of bad governance are over’

APNU+AFC's damage to communities repaired, more development underway, President Ali tells massive crowd at Anna Regina

By Trina Williams

REGION Two is experiencing a transformative period because of the improvement and revival of education delivery, the breakfast and hot meal initiative, and the soon to be completed Anna Regina stadium. This is a significant change since the area was once unable to access textbooks.

Thousands of Guyanese gathered for one of the largest campaign events for the Local Government Elections (LGEs). President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali reassured them that bad governance would no longer suppress them; this he said to loud applause from the crowd.

The President reminded the large gathering that

LGEs are “critical for the continuation of development at the community level,” and he added that it also brings about synergy on all levels of government.

In addition, he said that because of the advancements made by his administration, young people can confidently support the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) in the upcoming elections in order to end the A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) ways of obstructing development.

“People who were never supportive of the PPP because of the narrative that was carried to them are today supporting us because of the truth; facts...” he said.

Condemning the constant attacks on former

APNU/AFC members who endorsed the PPP/C, the President said that the Opposition resorts to this argument or reaction because, “In their eyes, you are not human beings; you are commodity.”

“From the time they have no use for you, you become useless to them,” he stated.

The President then told the crowd that in the PPP/ C’s eyes, all persons, regardless of their interior or exterior are welcomed in the party. He said: “You are joining a force that believes in the ‘oneness’ of our country.”

Exposing the APNU/ AFC for being hypocritical and dishonest about their party’s philosophy, the President asked: “What is decent and honest about

trying to steal democracy?”

He explained that because of the endless fight for Guyana, the nation is no longer being seen with the tarnished reputation that the Opposition left it with.

The Head of State also rehashed the fact that during APNU/AFC’s tenure, they had completely neglected the Agricultural sector, especially rice farming, which is one of the main livelihoods within the region.

In addition, the President asserted that his government has already rolled out over 1000 scholarships in the region. “Today, opportunities are numerous...”

Noting that over 14,000 children within the region had benefited from the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, the President said that any-

one who frowns upon this initiative is a “grinch.”

No more dark times

Meanwhile, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai remarked that on June 12, Guyanese must vote for fulfilled promises and not dwell on the painful past under the APNU/AFC.

She stated that owing to the impressive leadership skills displayed by the President, the country is moving forward. “We can see progress throughout the length and breadth of Guyana...” she said, adding: “In every region we can highlight development... under the PPP/C.”

Additionally, several PPP/C candidates for Anna Regina spoke about how the area has gotten better and

will continue to develop under the current government, highlighting how towns and villages across the country have flourished as a result of the PPP/C.

Although he was going in the wrong way, one crossover candidate playfully noted that he is now “riding the right horse.”

He continued by saying that with the president’s unwavering dedication to making Essequibo the “great basket of the Caribbean,” he was unable to see how anyone could be critical of the president’s efforts to create a “One Guyana.”

Another candidate said, “Gone are the days of mud roads,” showing that the current administration is bringing about a change for the people.

El Nino indications suggest below normal rainfall after July

GUYANA can expect below average rainfall from July 2023, according to the Ministry of Agriculture's Hydrometeorological Service.

Typically, continuous wetness (often accompanied by localised flooding) persists to the to the end of July in many Regions.

However, these conditions, in general, are not expected to persist beyond the end of June. The country

is expected to begin transitioning into dry conditions by mid- July because of the influence of El Niño. At this stage, it is expected that El Niño will be the main driver of local weather for the remainder of the year.

Water supply in conservancies, reservoirs, and inland rivers across all regions are expected to remain adequate until the end of June and decrease thereaf -

ter. Additionally, the potential for flash floods due to heavy rainfall remains high for June, with the highest amounts of rainfall expected in Regions Seven and Northern Eight.

All of Guyana can expect warmer than usual (above-normal) day and night-time temperatures over the coming months. Temperatures are expected to be warmer when compared to

the same period of previous years (and recent months). Dry days will be significantly warmer than wet days.

The Hydrometeorological Service recommends that rain-fed agriculture and large-scale water users harvest rainwater during the latter part of June to compensate for deficiencies in the coming months. As heat and dust will be of concern in late July, it is recommended that

shelter be provided for animals, while citizens should stay hydrated and, where possible; outdoor activities should be limited during the midday hours.

The Hydrometeorological Service will provide updates to its seasonal outlook as new information becomes available and recommends that special attention be paid to short-range forecasts emanating from the National

Weather Watch Centre to plan daily activities. For short-range forecasts and weather analyses, stakeholders are advised to follow the daily weather briefs, outlooks and advisories produced by the National Weather Watch Centre or visit www.hydromet.gov.gy. The forecast desk could also be reached at 261-2284 or 261-2216.

Thousands gathered for one of the largest campaign events for the LGEs as President Dr. Irfaan Ali reassured that bad governance would no longer suppress people

CARPHA urges collaboration for improved food safety in region

- World Food Safety Day 2023 highlights growing concerns, need for collective action

IN the Caribbean, the rise of foodborne diseases (FBDs) has become a pressing public health issue.

The escalating number of reported cases and outbreaks of gastroenteritis and foodborne illnesses in CARPHA Member States underscores the urgency of addressing this problem. CARPHA, the Caribbean Public Health Agency, emphasises that reducing FBDs is crucial not only for enhancing food safety but also for promoting food security, a vital sustainable development goal. Moreover, the implications of FBDs extend beyond health, affecting economies, trade, tourism, and the reputation of the Caribbean.

A recent Caribbean burden of illness study, encompassing select CARPHA Member States, revealed that approximately 1 in 49 individuals (equivalent to around 142,000 persons) in the Caribbean experience foodborne illnesses each year due to poten-

tial consumption of contaminated food or beverages. The prevalence of such illnesses rises to 1 in 11 individuals during mass gatherings, which the culturally diverse Caribbean is renowned for. These events include festivities, carnivals, cricket matches, food fairs, and holiday celebrations. Alarmingly, over 40% of these cases involve children aged 1 to 4 years. The economic impact of gastroenteritis, the primary symptom of foodborne illness, amounts to an estimated USD $21 million annually, highlighting the significant burden on the health and economy of the Caribbean.

Common pathogens transmitted through contaminated food and water in the region include Salmonella, Campylobacter, Shigella, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli 0157, Listeria, Norovirus, and Giardia. Most FBDs are zoonoses, meaning they are infectious diseases that can be naturally transmitted between ani-

mals and humans, often originating at the farm level. Toxins and chemicals present in food and water also contribute to foodborne illnesses.

Food standards play a crucial role in ensuring safety and quality, providing guidelines for hygienic food handling. World Food Safety Day 2023 adopts the theme "Food Standards Save Lives" to underscore the critical role that standards play in safeguarding consumers. This annual observance, held on June 7, aims to raise awareness about safe food practices and emphasise the global importance of food safety.

Climate change is another factor that can influence food safety by causing long-term changes in weather patterns. The abundance and transmission of food and waterborne pathogens, especially in the aftermath of disasters such as storms and severe flooding, can be affected by climate change.

Although the international scientific community is gradually

building evidence regarding the links between climate change and food safety, the specific risks and the Caribbean region's ability to respond to climate-driven food-related outbreaks have not been comprehensively assessed.

Dr. Joy St. John, Executive Director at CARPHA, highlights the vulnerability of the Small Island Developing States in the Caribbean to the effects of climate change on food safety and food security. She emphasises the necessity for the region to adopt a focused, multisectoral approach to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

CARPHA is currently collaborating with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on the EU/CARIFORUM Strengthening Climate Resilient Health Systems in the Caribbean project. This initiative aims to implement climate-integrated food safety initiatives in the Caribbean. As part of the project, a series of videos addressing climate risks and food safety have been produced. Additionally, a joint agency webinar was recently conducted, emphasising the effects of climate change on food safety and the importance of strengthening food safety surveillance in the region. The webinar discussed climate adaptation and mitigation measures within the Caribbean context, with a specific focus on seafood safety. Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago have been selected as pilot countries for the development and implementation of climate-resilient national food and water safety plans by mid-2024.

Preventing foodborne illnesses is largely achievable through interventions in food preparation, production, processing, and storage. Implementing measures to prevent contamination can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne diseases.

To effectively address FBDs and improve food safety in the

Caribbean, CARPHA is implementing an integrated foodborne diseases programme that incorporates epidemiological, laboratory, environmental, and veterinary aspects of surveillance and response. This comprehensive approach, both regionally and nationally, includes surveillance, training, capacity building, outbreak investigation and research, and preparation and control measures to promote food safety.

CARPHA has already trained and certified over 500 individuals in advanced food safety across nine Member States. Furthermore, the agency has developed a suite of standards encompassing hospitality, health, food safety, and environmental aspects. These standards serve as the foundation for developing an effective food safety programme for the hospitality industry. They cover various aspects, including hygiene, protective wear, clean kitchen facilities and utensils, handling of contaminated food, waste disposal and storage, emergency response protocols, staff training, and monitoring to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Food safety is a shared responsibility that involves the entire supply chain, from producers to consumers. CARPHA calls upon both the public and private sectors, emphasising that everyone involved in the process of growing, processing, transporting, storing, distributing, selling, preparing, serving, or consuming food plays a vital role in ensuring its safety.

As the Caribbean commemorates World Food Safety Day, the spotlight is on the need for collaboration and concerted efforts to improve food safety throughout the region. By prioritising food safety, the Caribbean can safeguard the health and well-being of its population, enhance its reputation as a tourist destination, and protect its vital industries.

Exxon’s Liability Insurance: Appeal Court to rule today on merit of EPA’s appeal

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

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

THE Court of Appeal will, today, deliver its ruling on the merits of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) appeal to overturn Justice Sandil Kissoon’s decision that the agency and oil giant ExxonMobil breached obligations relating to its oil spill insurance policy.

The Kingston-based court will deliver its ruling virtually by Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud, at 11:00 hrs.

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

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

Justice Persaud had previously refused

Datadin’s application to suspend the judgement until the appeal hearing, indicating his intention to evaluate the reasonable prospects of success and deliver his ruling

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

The second provision is Section 31(2) of the Environmental

Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud

before June 10, the deadline for complying with Justice Kissoon’s initial ruling.

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

Datadin had moved

Protection Act, which sets out requirements for financial assurances that companies must provide in relation to environmental permits.

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

Progress and Transformation: Minister Dharamlall says

PPP/C Government delivers on promises in Region Two

By Trina Williams

THE People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has already made good on some of their promises in Region Two, resulting in increased job opportunities, improved infrastructure, better drainage, and a cleaner, brighter environment.

This is according to Nigel Dharamlall,

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, during a recent PPP/C public meeting on the Supenaam waterfront.

Speaking about the many investments made in ‘Cinderella County,’ the Minister said that in just two years and 10 months, the government was able to construct 97 kilometers of reinforced, asphaltic

roads.

He also related to the mammoth crowd: “These were roads that were never there before….. and [in] two years and 10 months, we’ve been able to clear 840 kilometers of canals right here in region two, adding that over 300 persons were employed directly under the project.”

He added: “I say this to you because these are direct initiatives of His Excellency, the President when he came to this region many times; these were projects that he himself ensured that the people of region two benefit.”

Underscoring the vast number of public works across the region, the Government Official disclosed that 251 roads are to be constructed and because of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, undying commitment, the government has already constructed 116 of them, starting from late 2022.

“As I stand before you [on] this good day, We have already finished 116 of them, all because of the leadership of Dr. Ali…. By the end of this year, we will get close to 150…” he said.

In addition to this, Dharamlall also addressed the enhancement and complete transformation of the Charity Squatting area.

“It is the most developed part of Essequibo Coast right now because President Ali ensured that that has happened,” the Min -

ister confidently said. Furthermore, he noted that the people of Essequibo were able to benefit from an additional 400 house lots in the Charity area.

Commending Guyana’s accomplishment of being elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nation’s Security Council for the period 2024 – 2025, the Minister openly expressed his confidence in the President and his abilities to lead Guyana forward.

“...In life, respect is very important and respect can come only under good leadership,” the Minister said, adding that this resulted from the outstanding leadership abilities displayed by President Ali.

Furthermore, Dharamlall said that despite the President only being in office for such a short tenure, he has already visited the Pomeroon-Supenaam region several times.

Moreover, he urged the people to open their eyes to who is prioritising them and encouraged them to vote for progress and transformation.

Local Government Elections are scheduled for June 12. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) will contest all Local Authority Areas (LAAs) and hopes to increase its representation in Georgetown at the level of the City Council which is currently controlled by the PNC-led APNU/ AFC.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall

Health Ministry initiates $66M health centre construction in Mon Repos

THE sod was, on Monday, turned for the construction of a new Health Centre at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.

This is according to a release from the Ministry of Health, which said that Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony and Attorney General Anil Nandlall turned the sod to commemorate the beginning of the construction of the new Health Centre at Mon Repos.

It was noted that the construction of the centre is estimated to cost just around $66M and is expected to benefit the residents of Mon Repos and the surrounding communities.

At the ceremony, the health minister said that the nearest health centre is some distance away from Mon Repos and as such the initiative to have the health centre built was developed.

“The next health

centre that we have here is at Lusignan, which is some distance away. Mon Repos is a very big area and this is something that a lot of people in the area have been asking for, for many years,” he said.

The Minister added that, as a result, the government looked at the calls and realised that there was a gap that needed to be filled and, based on the assessment done, they went ahead to develop the project.

Added to this, Dr Anthony said that doctors and nurses have already been identified for the facility and upon completion, the new facility will provide services like modern child care, immunisation for children, treatment for chronic diseases, point of care laboratory and other specialised services such as dental services.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall turned the sod on Monday (Ministry of Health photos)

The site in Mon Repos where the new $66M health centre will be constructed

RACING TIPS

(ESPNCRICINFO) -

Travis Head and Steven Smith feasted on India's wayward attack in what weren't easy batting conditions to put Australia in the box seat of the WTC final by the end of day one at The Oval. Head scored his first century outside Australia, and Smith was five short of his 31st overall as they took Australia from 76 for 3 to 327 for 3 at stumps. Head turned his century - the first in a WTC final - into a big one: an unbeaten 146 off 156 with 22 fours and a six.

The big talking point for India remained the selection of a fourth fast bowler over R Ashwin, a strategy that worked for them against England in 2021. They perhaps were influenced by the 6mm of grass cover on the pitch and the overcast skies in the morning, but they didn't find close to the kind of control you expect from the third and fourth quicks of a four-man pace attack. Between them, Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur bowled 32 overs for 129 runs and one wicket.

Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj were good as usual with the new ball after India put Australia in. The 12 overs in the first hour conceded just 29 runs, produced the wicket of Usman Khawaja

for a duck, and the 21 false responses created suggested there could have been one or two more around the corner.

However, the change-up bowlers, Umesh and Thakur, provided relatively easy runs at various points after that opening spell of play. Umesh provided David Warner a half-volley second ball into the attack, and was then hit for four boundaries square or behind square on the off side in his second over.

Warner would have thought that was the reward he deserved after roughing it out in the first hour, but India enjoyed some good fortune as Thakur had him caught down the leg side off a short ball just before lunch.

India went to Siraj and Shami, the likeliest bowlers to produce a wicket, post lunch. Shami's first ball was a peach, seaming in to uproot Marnus Labuschagne's off stump. India still had a chance there if they could get it right for long enough periods.

Head, who lost his No. 5 position in a horses-for-courses policy in India, had other ideas. Shami had a left-hand batter in sight, he was fresh into a new spell, the ball was still seaming, he beat Head early on, but Head soon imposed his intent on India.

The fifth ball that Head faced was only slightly wide and slightly short, and he crashed it away for four. His

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday June 08, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) WI won by 7 wickets

(2) Brandon King (WI)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the second ODI of the current WI/UAE ODI series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

attacking game through the off side soon had India fumbling for ideas. They moved a slip out to put a sweeper back on the off side, but then Head was quick to cash in on anything too straight. Siraj conceded two such boundaries.

In a small byplay at the other end, Smith found it difficult to adjust to the uneven bounce and the sideways movement. His response was different to Head's. He continued to fight it out whereas

Head

didn't mind attacking.

World Test Championship Final… Head and Smith put Indian bowlers through the wringer

On the surface Head looked better but he offered false responses more often than Smith: Smith's control percentage was 90 to Head's 69. Those, again, are their roles. Smith builds, Head counterattacks.

Things became easier for Smith when Thakur went searching once too often. Thakur is an ambitious bowler who bowls full and straight more often than the others. It probably works when you are bowling off the pressure created by

three world-class quicks. Playing as the third seamer practically, he probably went full once too often. Smith cashed in, and a 16-run over resulted.

With the ball still doing a bit for the quicks, it said a lot of India's options that they went to Ravindra Jadeja before Umesh in the middle session. For a while Thakur went to the leg attack that worked for India in Australia, but Smith was well set and was willing to ride the period out.

Travis Head and Steven Smith ended the day with their stand unbeaten on 251•Jun 07, 2023 • AFP/Getty Images

Guyana Squash team fail to qualify for Pan Am Games

By Sean Devers

Tuesday was another tough day for Guyana’s Squash team at the Pan Am Games qualifiers in Cartagena, Columbia; losing both in the men’s and women’s team event in the round of 16.

In the process, the team failed in its bid to qualify for the Pan American games later this year.

“The ladies lost to a very determined Ecuador team in some very hot conditions here. Everyone had a chance to win but ultimately came up short. The highest we can now finish is 9th, however, we hope to close out the championship on a positive note,” revealed Coach Ramon Chan-a-Sue.

Guyana Women lost 3-0 to Ecuador.

World Masters over-35 Singles Champion and six times Caribbean Squash Queen, Nicolette Fernandes, lost 2-3 to Ecuador’s Maria Paula Moya Lopez in a hardfought match.

Nicolette, still recovering

from illness, took the first game 11-5 before Lopez won 11-5 to leave the 1-1.

Nicolette, Guyana’s most accomplished female Squash player dug deep and rallied to win the third stanza 11-5 to take a 2-1 lead.

Charlotte Edwards Cup… Dottin

However, the 39-year-old lost the last two games 8-11, 4-11 to lose the almost onehour long match three games to two.

Ashley Khalil, the defending Caribbean Singles Champion, lost 14-12, 7-11, 11-7, 11-4 to Maria Caridad Buenano Araque before Taylor Fernandes lost to Rafaela Albuja Sanchez 13-11, 11-5

Meanwhile, the Boys team lost 3-0.

Jason Ray Khalil lost 113,11-3, 11-1 to Jeremias Azana; Alex Arjoon lost 11-1, 110, 11-6 to Roberto Pezzota, while Samuel Ince-Carvalhal lost 11-3, 11-5 to Miguel Pujol.

Coach Chan-a-Sue informed that the ladies will play Bolivia tomorrow morning and the Men were scheduled to play Brazil last evening in their consolation bracket.

Guyana Amazon Warriors to open WCPL 2023

(CMC) - Last year’s losing finalists, Barbados Royals, will raise the curtain on this year’s Women’s Caribbean Premier League when they clash with Guyana Amazon Warriors in front of their home crowd at Kensington Oval.

Organisers announced the fixtures for the August 31 to September 10 campaign on Wednesday, with Royals taking on Amazon Warriors in the tournament’s opener.

Reigning champions

Trinbago Knight Riders will launch the defence of their title two days later against Royals at the same venue, in a rematch of last year’s final.

The storied Oval will host its final game on

fails but Thunder beat Northern Diamonds

September 5 when TKR and Amazon Warriors come up against each other.

The last three group games in the tournament will be played in Trinidad and Tobago, along with the final, even though organisers are yet to announce the venues.

“We were delighted with the reception the first WCPL received in 2022 and we cannot wait for the start of an expanded tournament this year,” said CPL chief executive, Pete Russell.

“These hugely talented players deserve the best chance to showcase their talents and the WCPL is the perfect stage for this. Women’s cricket is growing rapidly, and it is pleasing for CPL to play a

significant part in that growth.”

Last year’s WCPL was staged entirely in St Kitts and comprised only three group games, with the top two teams meeting in the final.

This year, each team will feature in four group games, a move championed by Cricket West Indies.

“CWI is committed to greater investment in the growth and development of women’s cricket,” said president Dr Kishore Shallow.

“Consistent with this is the expansion of the WCPL 2023 to feature more matches and playing across venues in the region. This opportunity for our regional cricketers is invaluable.

“Additionally, there is no doubt that the spectacle of the tourna-

ment will inspire more young female cricketers to take up the sport. It is certainly an exciting time for all parties involved.”

Regional corporate giants Massy Group have thrown their support behind the tournament again as title sponsors in a three-year deal, senior vice-president Ambikah Mongroo, underscoring the strategic value of the partnership.

“Supporting the WCPL exemplifies what we believe to be truly representative of our Caribbean heart,” Mongroo said.

“It’s the passion for the game of cricket, it’s the energy of our Caribbean women and the combination of both to have global reach through the CPL platforms.”

CMC – Deandra Dottin failed for the second straight time but Thunder won for the fourth time in seven matches, with a dominant seven-wicket victory over Northern Diamonds.

The retired West Indies all-rounder made only nine as Thunder easily chased down a target of 97 at Stanley Park on Wednesday, to go second in the Charlotte Edwards Cup standings on 18 points.

Dottin made only two last Sunday in Thunder’s 16-run win over South East Stars, also at Stanley Park.

Choosing to bat first, Diamonds folded cheaply for 97 in the penultimate over, undermined by Olivia Bell’s three for nine and a brace each from fellow off-spinner Fi Morris (2-16) and left-arm new ball seamers Tara Norris (2-19) and Mahika Gaur (2-27).

Chloe Tryon struck 22 from 18 balls and Dutch right-hander Sterre Kalis, 24 from 28 balls, the pair adding 27 for the fifth wicket in the best stand of the innings, to pull their side around from a dire position of 19 for four at the start of the fifth over.

In reply, Morris completed a solid all-round effort when she top-scored with 42 not out off 34 deliveries with five fours, as Thunder strolled to their target with five overs to spare.

The 29-year-old put on 34 for the second wicket with opener Naomi Dattani (20) and a further 26 for the third wicket with Dottin.

Barbadian Dottin has plied her trade on the T20 circuit across the globe since abruptly quitting international cricket last August.

Fernandes (left) and Khalil were expected to lead Guyana's women’s challenge at the Pan Am qualifiers in Colombia

Former West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin

KFC GFF Elite League…

Den Amstel register first win

Den Amstel FC opened their winning account at the KFC Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League with a 3-2 humdinger on Tuesday.

Played at the GFF National Training Centre (NTC) at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), Den Amstel took an early lead by way of a Tyrek Grant goal in the 16th minute, but it was only until the second half that the fireworks began.

In the 73rd, Keanu Lawrence beat the Ann’s Grove defenders

and executed a brilliant cross to find the back of the net. Four minutes later, Grant made it a 3-0 game in Den Amstel’s favour after

tapping in an assist.

However, Ann’s Grove fought back as Alden Lawrence pulled off the perfect header for their first goal in the

Digicel schools Football championships 2023

Over one hundred teams to participate

One hundred and twenty-eight teams are expected to gear up between June 26th and August 13th this year as the Digicel schools football tournament returns for an eighth edition.

Regarded as one of the most sought-after schools’ football titles ever contested on these shores, the 2023 edition will stay true to its form and comprise all ten administrative regions.

Speaking at the launch at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, Co-Director of the Petra organization, Troy Mendonca, contended that to co-ordinate the tournament with ‘this amount of prestige is an honour.

Region One [9], Two [9], Region Three [12], Region Four (divided into three sections: East Coast Demerara [12], Georgetown [33], and East Bank Demerara [8]), Region Five [8], Region Six [20], Region Seven [3], Region Eight [2], Region Nine

[4], and Region Ten [8].

Following the regional rounds, a round of 32 teams will make up a national championship, of which 13 schools will come from Georgetown. Regions Three and Six will each have two teams as will East Coast Demerara, East Bank Demerara, Region Seven and Region Ten respectively.

Regions One, Five, Eight and Nine will have one school each.

Outgoing Chief Executive Officer of Digicel, Gregroy Dean, explained that the company was more than thrilled to return to the glory days of schools’ football.

The National Champions will receive $1,000,000 and the championship trophy with second, third, and fourth place finishers getting $500,000, $300,000, and $200,000 respectively.

All moneys will go towards a school project with prizes also expected for the

Highest Goal Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, and Most Valuable Player.

GFF Executive Committee Member, Dion Inniss, stated that the Federation is interested in the development of schools football and the return of a nationwide tournament is heartening.

Guyana Olympic Association President Godfrey Munroe stated that partnerships between corporate Guyana and the relevant sporting associations are critical to the development of sport and augurs well for its long-term future.

Chase Academy are the two-time defending champions [2016 and 2017] while Christianburg/Wismar of Linden is the most decorated school team with four titles [2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015] and six finals appearances. The other winner was inaugural champion [2011] Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI).

find the equalizer with little time left on the clock.

Following the match, Den Amstel’s captain Rondel Hutson expressed relief at bagging their first win.

81st. Then in the 83rd, the Den Amstel keeper was tried and tested multiple times, until he could not hold on to the final, goal-scoring shot from Ryan Seales.

Tried as Ann’s Grove did, they were unable to

“Well, we was training a lot, we have a lot of youths in the team right now, most of the players were adopted by other teams but so far, with the youths, we’re working with them and along with a good coach, we’re getting there. Constantly practice and more games to come, we’ll get better,” Hutson said.

In the following game, the smattering of fans gathered at the

NTC were treated to an entertaining draw between the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC and Western Tigers FC. The likes of Ryan Hackett and Eusi Phillips, from wither side of the coin, were ‘knocking on the door’ early on, but it’s was a defender’s game, resulting in the nil-all draw.

The Elite League will continue this evening at the same venue, where Santos FC will take on Fruta Conquerors FC at 19:00hrs. That will be followed by a clash between Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC and Milerock FC at 21:00hrs.

GCUSA’s Level One and Two Umpires’ Training

Sessions set for June 19 to July 23, 2023

By Sean Devers

The Georgetown Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association (GCUSA) is holding Level One and Two Umpires' Training classes for those interested in learning the Laws of Cricket.

The Classes are set for the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda from June 23 to July 19, 2023 for players, coaches, aspiring umpires, cricket journalists and broadcasters.

Classes will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and the Registration Fee is $5000.

“Cricket is not just a sport, it's a passion, a way of life. Umpiring is an integral part of the game, ensuring fair play, upholding the spirit of cricket, and maintaining

the highest level of sportsmanship. By participating in our Level One and Two Umpires' Training, you have the chance to contribute to the development of cricket in Georgetown and Guyana,” explained GCUSA’s president, Ryan Banwarie.

This comprehensive training programme is designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and techniques to become proficient cricket umpires. Whether you are a cricket enthusiast eager to gain a deeper understanding of the game or a player looking to enhance your decision-making abilities, this training will serve as a stepping stone toward a successful umpiring career.”

During the training, participants will have the opportunity to learn from

experienced umpires who have officiated at the highest levels of the sport.

“They will share their insights, provide valuable guidance, and conduct practical sessions to ensure you receive hands-on experience in umpiring. From understanding the rules and regulations to managing match situations and making accurate decisions, this training will cover all aspects of umpiring.

By joining our Level One and Two Umpires' Training, you will not only elevate your skills but also contribute to the growth and development of cricket in our beloved city,” Banwarie continued.

To register or for more details persons can call the following numbers: 592 6452596, 592 6155330, 592 6845250.

Action in the KFC/GFF Elite League 2023

Guyana Amazon Warriors Women will open the 2023 Women’s Caribbean Premier League against the Barbados Tridents

Participants from some of the schools competing in the 2023 Digicel schools Football tournament