Guyana Chronicle E-paper 10-17-2023

TUESDAY 17th October, 2023

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VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107236

President Ali attends inaugural Canada-Caricom Summit in Ottawa 04 PAGE

Red beans, black eye peas production in 03 Baracara will utilise 400 acres of land –– President Ali says

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The cutter suction dredger is on its way to Pomeroon to move into phase two of the Pomeroon River dredging programme. Farmers along the river suffered from poor drainage due to excessive siltation at its mouth. All vessel operators are advised to keep 500 feet away from the dredge since there will be pipes and anchors within that area.

Drip irrigation, water harvesting among new initiatives to conserve water for farmers 03 PAGE

$900M Guyana 10 7,000 preschool 09 Energy divide 02 Additional to complete Black pledges to fortify children screened Bush Polder road will be bridged non-oil economy for health conditions PAGE

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–PM Phillips reaffirms; commissions solar farms in Capoey and Tapakuma

rehabilitation 09 PAGE

–– Min. Edghill

–– Finance Minister tells LatinFinance

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–– Health Minister

Data Protection Act: Balancing privacy and progress in Guyana 11 PAGE

Gov’t committed to bridging energy divide for Amerindian communities

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

–PM Phillips reaffirms; commissions solar farms in Capoey and Tapakuma

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, commissioned two solar mini-photovoltaic (PV) farms, on Sunday, for the indigenous communities of Tapakuma Village and Capoey Mission on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two. The grids include a battery energy storage system and transmission line.

The solar farm in Mission Capoey boasts a 41.5-kilowatt system with a 125-kilowatt battery; while Tapakuma’s solar mini-PV farm provides residents with a 21-kilowatt system and a 63.47-kilowatt battery.

The Prime Minister, who oversees the energy sector, said that the projects demon-

of all Guyanese and to “stand out as an example of development in Latin America and the Caribbean, and of course the wider world”.

Speaking to the residents of Tapakuma, The Prime Minister emphasised the Government’s people-centred approach, focusing on designing and implementing projects that bring development to local communities.

“We believe that, as a Government, our plans, our projects and programmes that we design, once properly delivered, can improve the lives and livelihood of the people of Guyana. We want to ensure that you get better electricity, better water, better ICT connectivity, better roads, better medical

“We are here to deliver another promise we made to you, our people, in our manifesto that we went to elections with, in 2020. One of the things we promised to do is to bridge the energy divide, and what we are doing today is implementing another project that will ensure that. No longer will the people on the coastline only get the benefits of good energy supply, but today and onwards the people in the hinterland and in the riverain areas will also benefit.”

The Prime Minister expressed optimism that the solar farms will aid in the overall development of indigenous communities, emphasising their collective responsibility to manage the

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, inspects the battery energy storage system after commissioning the solar mini-photovoltaic (PV) farms, on Sunday, for the indigenous communities of Tapakuma Village and Capoey Mission Head of Guyana’s Ener- ister addressed concerns tion facilitated through his gy Agency and lead agen- affecting residents from office’s Special Projects fund cy for implementing solar both communities, includ- to assist Tapakuma Village farms, Dr Mahender Sharma, ing water quality, transpor- farms. He also assured resprovided an overview of the tation, road rehabilitation, idents that relevant agencies projects and echoed the sen- ICT, farming, electrical grid and authorities will address timents expressed by Prime connectivity, education, and all issues raised.

Minister Phillips during the hinterland scholarships.

Prime Minister Phillips commissioning ceremonies.

Prime Minister Phillips was accompanied by his In addition to the com- made several interventions wife, Mrs Mignon Bowmissioning, the Prime Min- including a $500,000 dona- en-Phillips.

The solar farm in Mission Capoey boasts a 41.5-kilowatt system with a 125-kilowatt battery; while Tapakuma’s solar mini-PV farm provides residents with a 21-kilowatt system and a 63.47-kilowatt battery strate the Government’s dedication to equitable development for all Guyanese through the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This shift, he said, aligns with the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030.

He spoke of the systems in place to transition to renewable energy; and to amplify food and climate security to enhance the lives

facilities, better school facilities and we are working overtime… and that’s why you hear terms like transformational development, accelerated development.”

At Capoey’s commissioning ceremony, he noted that the project exemplifies the Government’s commitment to bridging the energy divide in line with the administration’s manifesto promises.

solar grids responsibly.

Additionally, he discussed the Government’s sustainable energy efforts, including the distribution of 30,000 solar panel systems benefitting 200 hinterland communities, implementation of the Gas-to-Shore project (providing an additional 300 megawatts), and plans to seek investments for the Amaila Falls hydro project.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, interacts with residents of the indigenous communities on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two and listens to their concerns

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Red beans, black eye peas production in Baracara will utilise 400 acres of land –– President Ali says

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali underscored the government’s objective of restoring productivity to communities and declared that he would settle for nothing less than 400 acres of land for cultivating red beans in Baracara.

The Head of State made those remarks on Sunday, while visiting the Baracara community in Region Six and spoke on plans for continued agricultural development in the region.

In pursuit of that objective, he informed the assembled community members that he had inquired about the designated land area for red bean cultivation and was

informed of a mere 25 acres.

However, President Ali indicated that he would not be accepting anything below four hundred acres of land to be prepared for the production of red beans and black-eye beans.

“We are going to put the tractor and plough to work but I am not going to accept anything below four hundred acres of land in red beans.

So, we’re going to put the land to work, we’re going to put the machinery, we are going to put the labour.”

In light of this context, Dr. Ali stated that the government will allocate funds for the acquisition of tractors and ploughs in order to facil-

President Dr Irfaan Ali addresses residents of Baracara (Office of the President photo)

itate the production process and aid in land preparation.

“We have to ensure that we not only make the investment but that we make the investment work for us,” he added.

Further, he indicated that the purpose of what was being done was to put land back into production and bring productivity back to communities.

To this end, he noted that there are three factors of production of which labour and land are two and noted that if the land is not in a state of readiness, labour cannot be deployed and if the land is in a state of readiness and labour is lapsing, then the community is not taking advantage of the land.

As such he stressed the

need for labour support from members of the community to which they affirmed and applauded the move by the president.

In August, President Ali led a technical team to several communities along the Berbice River where assessments were done for the large-scale production of red beans and black eye beans.

At that time, communities like Tacama, Kimbia, Mara and Moleson Creek were visited as the aim was to bring at least 1,000 acres into cultivation before the end of the year.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, said that the initiative was part of the government’s vision to position Guyana as a hub for food production.

Drip irrigation, water harvesting among new initiatives to conserve water for farmers

By Naomi Parris

GUYANA is currently in the midst of the El Niño period, resulting in warmer and drier weather conditions, and new initiatives are being introduced to farmers here to conserve water for food production.

Speaking at an event on Monday to commemorate World Food Day, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha revealed that drip irrigation and water harvesting is being introduced to farmers nationwide.

“In light of the reduced rainfall and possibility of water scarcity, the Ministry of Agriculture has been proactive in dealing with the potential challenges for agriculture on our water resources.

The ministry has undertaken several initiatives to promote sustainable water use and management for agriculture.”

Drip irrigation is a type of micro-irrigation that reduces water wastage by delivering water directly to the root zone of the crops. This can either be done above the soil surface or buried below the surface.

Meanwhile, water harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater, rather than allowing it to run off.

“These initiatives aim to improve irrigation practices on water efficiency and ensure the long-term viability of the agriculture sector,” the agriculture minister ex-

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha plained.

Meanwhile, he noted that the Ministry has invested heavily in the infrastructure of the country’s drainage systems.

“To mention a few some examples of these initiatives include investment in irrigation infrastructure, for the development and rehabilitation of irrigation systems across the country. This includes the construction and maintenance of canals, pumps, pump stations, water reservoirs, maintenance and many more from the management of water for agricultural use.”

Already, for the year, $26 billion has been expended in upgrading the drainage and irrigation systems.

FAO Representative to Guyana, Dr. Gillian Smith This year, World Food Day is being held under the theme, “Water is life, water is food.”

Guyana has received support from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) to introduce climate-smart practices to farmers here.

Delving further into the importance of water conservation for food production IICA’s representative to Guyana, Wilmot Garnett noted that the scarcity, improper use, and the threats of climate change on the world’s water resources can have threatening effect on food production.

And if action is not taken

IICA Representative to Guyana, Wilmot Garnett soon, food production can be reduced by 25 per cent by 2025.

“Agriculture must develop and implement innovative production systems that prior efficient prioritised water use,” Garnett said.

“If sustainable changes are not made in agriculture, the demand for water for agriculture will increase to 70-90 per cent by 2050, fortunately, we have some solutions,” he added.

Currently, agriculture accounts on average for 70 per cent of all freshwater withdrawals globally and an even higher share of consumptive water use.

Although Guyana has abundant fresh water, which

is ideal for food production, changing weather patterns and the effects of climate change have brought to light the importance of water.

“Today more than onethird of the world’s population is still without safe water, small owner farmers, particularly women youth, indigenous people migrants and refugees are the most vulnerable,” FAO representative to Guyana Dr Gillian Smith said.

She suggested that technology be utilized to address the issue.

“We must harness the power of science innovation, data and technology to produce more with less, to make every drop count, all of us must consume and manage water more efficiently.”

The ongoing dry spell is expected to last until November, and the authorities have assured citizens that the country has sufficient water

to meet current demand.

However, both the Head of State, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and the agriculture minister, Zulfikar Mustapha have called on citizens to conserve water.

The agriculture minister recently disclosed that fresh water is being conserved to assist farmers during this dry-weather period.

He stated that local authorities have stored freshwater and are monitoring water use and storage levels to guarantee that there is enough water to last throughout the dry season.

In some regions, surface water has dried up and there is a reduction in flows from springs. Some hinterland communities are more adversely affected.

The government has since implemented a system to ensure that water is being supplied to communities in Regions One, Seven and Eight.

Drip irrigation is a type of micro-irrigation system in which water trickles directly to the plant’s roots through a network of pipes and emitters

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

President Ali attends inaugural Canada-CARICOM Summit in Ottawa

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali embarked on a journey to Ottawa, Canada, on Monday morning, to convene with fellow CARICOM leaders for the inaugural Canada-CARICOM Summit.

The Summit, which is being held under the theme

“Strategic Partners for a Resilient Future”, aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Canada and the Region.

President Ali will join other regional leaders to advance shared priorities in several areas, including building inclusive and

sustainable economies and increasing trade and investment. Leaders are also expected to discuss climate change and its impact in the Caribbean.

His Excellency is joined by the Minister of Public Service, the Honourable Sonia Parag.

Prime Minister Trudeau will co-chair the Summit, which will run from October 17 to 19, 2023, alongside the current Chair of CARICOM, the Prime Minister of Dominica, the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit.

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali

Wednesday, October 04, 2023

C 02 04 07 14 20 26 12 Saturday, October 14, 2023

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16/10/23 - 02, 05, 09, 18, 22

16/10/23 - 4 7 1

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16/10/23- 2, 3, 10, 13, 14 ,15, 17

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PPP strongly condemns violence in Israeli-Palestinian conflict

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

–– Supports two-state solution

THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has amplified its historical endorsement of a twostate solution to bring about a resolution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The PPP’s stance aligns with the United Nations (UN) Resolution 242, marking a renewed urgency for global leaders and the UN to actively work towards its realisation.

The world’s attention has been squarely fixed on the Israeli-Palestinian issue in recent days, prompting a call for more robust, persistent, and unwavering efforts from the international community, including the United Nations.

The past week has witnessed a harrowing escalation of violence, with a dire need for swift intervention.

BELOW IS THE STATEMENT ISSUED

BY THE PPP ON THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT: The PPP has historically stood in support of a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, in keeping with UN resolution 242.

Events of this last week have catapulted this

issue onto the forefront of the global agenda once again, and require more urgent, determined, sustained, and unequivocal efforts by the United Nations (UN) and global leaders to realise this resolution.

Hamas’ attack on Israeli territory, and the subsequent Israeli aerial bombardment, as well as the consequential cutting off of all access to fuel, electricity, water, and medicine to the people of Gaza, have brought the status of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to its lowest levels in several decades.

Hamas’ attack on Israel has resulted in the loss of over 1,400 lives, including that of women and children.

Meanwhile, the Israeli bombardment of Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 2,600 Palestinians, many of whom are children and women. This violence against innocent civilians, on both sides, is unacceptable and the PPP unequivocally condemns it. Further, the Israeli air raids on Gaza have also resulted in the indiscriminate destruction of essential infrastructure, including UN centres, hospitals, and schools – all in flagrant violation of international and humanitarian laws.

At this dangerous juncture, there is a real threat that the conflict will escalate and engulf all of Palestine, as well as other parts of the Region.

The People’s Progressive Party lends its unequivocal support to the statement by the Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, on October 13, 2023, in which he called on Israel to stop the evacuation order of over one million people from the Gaza, one of the most densely populated areas in the world – “a territory already besieged under aerial bombardment without fuel, electricity, water and food.”

The Secretary-General appealed to Israel to reconsider such actions, as it would have devastating humanitarian consequences. Also, the PPP welcomes the swift response by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

The October 9, 2023 statement stressed that CARICOM joined “responsible members of the international community in calling for an immediate ceasefire and the end of hostilities by all parties.

CARICOM continues to support UNSC Res 242 and the ongoing efforts towards a two-state solution as the best way to

achieve comprehensive peace, security and tranquility between Israel and Palestine.”

Additionally, statements by world leaders have urged Israel to withdraw the evacuation order for over a million Palestinians and for it to not reoccupy Gaza as its own.

The PPP reiterates that it condemns the senseless killing of innocent civilians, particularly women and children, on both sides and supports the call for: The immediate, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza of fuel, food, medicine and water, etc., being allowed to enter; An immediate reversal of the evacuation order by Israel of the Palestinians in Gaza; All hostages in Gaza to be released; and Inter-

national humanitarian laws to be respected and upheld, and for civilians on both sides to be protected at all times.

The world can no longer continue to turn a blind eye to the unacceptable conditions in which the Palestinians have been living for generations.

The Palestinian peo-

ple deserve a homeland in which they can live in freedom and dignity.

The people of Israel also deserve to live in a country free from threats of violence and at peace with their neighbours.

We believe that this can only be achieved in the context of a two-state solution.

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Editor

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Navendra Seoraj

Hoping for the best, planning for the worst

A POPULAR old saying goes, ‘A stitch in time saves nine…’ and it may very well be wisely applied in the current preparations for deployment of Caribbean troops to Haiti.

Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados and Jamaica -- four Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member-states -have already agreed, ahead of a CARICOM vote, to support the external intervention by a United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM).

Invited by Haiti’s un-elected Prime Minister and Acting President Ariel Henry, approved by the majority members of the UN Security, financed by the United States and supported by Kenya, Canada is now about to host CARICOM leaders at an upcoming October 17-19 Summit, where Haiti is sure to be among the top topics.

The US has pledged to provide the necessary military intelligence, aircraft, ground logistics and medical assistance. But, like the UN, it will not commit peacekeeping forces or troops.

Canada has deep interest in Haiti and it’s official backing for the MSSM will

most-likely emerge from the Summit to be hosted by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Kenyan police and soldiers are signing up for the mission’s hefty pay increases, allowances and other incentives. But the decision is already proving somewhat difficult in Kenya, where the opposition sought -- and got -- a court injunction for a stay of execution of the deployment of police officers abroad, which, they claim, violates the Kenyan Constitution.

Legal critics in CARICOM are also claiming the invitation of external intervention in Haiti by an unelected government and without parliamentary backing, as in Kenya, might also be irregular, if not illegal.

However, as in Kenya, police, defence force and army units in CARICOM nations that have committed to the MSSM are looking forward to earning the much-needed extra pay in these extra-hard times.

CARICOM member-states not yet committed are still weighing the balances of probability while seeking more clarification about the security aspects of the MSSM. Whatever the answers, this is a multinational security mission to be undertaken in a

very short period in a very unstable environment, where people harbour more fear than hope and have vehemently opposed both the presence of UN troops and interventions by other nations and external agencies.

Thus, before any CARICOM citizen leaves for Haiti, it’s necessary that all be sufficiently briefed, in detail, about what’s expected of them -- and most importantly, the security challenges involved.

According to the UN Security Council’s mandate, those participating in the security aspects of the mission will work alongside the Haitian Police to guard schools, hospitals and other institutions that can come under attack by the feared gangs said to be in charge of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

They are also expected to help create the security conditions that the Haitian police and army haven’t been able to guarantee, through dangerous areas for safe passage of aid and supplies to beleaguered Haitians outside the capital.

Further, they will also be expected to -within one year -- build a transparent and accountable electoral machine that’ll be ‘free

and fair’ and ‘free from fear’, to ‘Restore Democracy’ in a nation where elections have their own history in relation to such terms.

The UN resolution supporting the MSSM is detailed, but also very-specific about taking responsibility for anything that goes wrong -- including expectations that members of the MSSM force will at all times operate under UN-recognized international Human Rights tenets, including avoidance of sexual exploitation.

They are expected to take full personal responsibility for all and any actions that fall outside of the Resolution’s specified red lines in ‘fine print.’

Against this background, CARICOM Governments should try hardest to ensure that every citizen going to Haiti knows and fully understands what is expected of them (by the UN) by ensuring each has copies of and are sufficiently schooled in their contents.

But while hoping for the best, CARICOM must also plan for the worse, including also taking steps to ensure that funds are available for Life Insurance of citizens who’ll join the MSSM.

Ring fencing impact on Stabroek Block project

Dear Editor,

I have noted that the Opposition Leader’s (OL) Economic Advisor, Elson Low and Glenn Lall have totally misrepresented―and more so misunderstood a statement the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo made at his last press conference.

The Vice President was responding to a question posed by Glenn Lall’s reporter on ring-fencing. Then, Elson Low reacted by stating in the media that the Vice President should prove ring-fencing will hamper future revenues and that some study should be done in that regard.

Now, if Elson Low was a real economist, he would not have made such a statement, because he would understand what the Vice President means in view of

the “time value of money” for example, and he would know that there is no need for a study, instead what is needed is a proper economic and financial analysis.

As the economic advisor to the OL, this is the type of work he should be doing, and not only to advise the OL, but to inform the entire nation of their alternative policies, together with the potential implications of same.

Editor, the concept of ring fencing in the oil and gas fiscal framework has often been misunderstood and misrepresented.

To date, none of the so-called experts have utilized their expertise to demonstrate by way of analysis the impact of ring fencing versus the absence of ring fencing, specifically in relation to the Stabroek Block projects. In this regard, the absence of ring fencing in the Sta-

broek Block is actually an incentive for the Stabroek Block investors, designed to sustain the rapid pace of development of the projects―that is, to extract as early as possible, the proven reserves to date.

This is the case especially since it allows for the financing of future projects from the operating cash flows, which is a cheaper source of financing than raising capital on the financial markets, inter alia, debt and equity instruments.

DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE STABROEK BLOCK PROJECT ECONOMICS MODEL The Stabroek Block comprised an area of an estimated 26,806 km2 (10.848 million hectares/26.806 million acres) offshore Guyana. The proven reserves to date after almost 24 years of ongoing

exploration activities since 1999 is an estimated 11 billion/bbls. The Production Development Area (PDA) comprising all of the discoveries so far accounts for 841 km 2 or 3.13% of the total area size of the Stabroek Block. These reserves are developed in phases through different projects such as Liza-1, Liza-2, Payara, Yellowtail and Whiptail etc.

The operator, ExxonMobil Guyana is aiming to have a total of ten (10) Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSOs) vessels by 2030.

Two FPSOs are currently producing at a rate of over 300,000/bbls/day, the third is expected by the end of 2023, the fourth is expected in 2024, and the fifth is expected to commence production in 2025, bringing the total daily See page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Ring fencing impact on Stabroek ...

From page 6

production to over 800,000 bbls/day.

By 2030, the total daily production is estimated to be in the region of 1.2 MMbbls/day.

The analysis shown in scenario (1) below is based on the actual situation whereby there is no ring-fencing provision in the Stabroek Block. In this scenario, the absence of the ring-fencing provision simply means that revenues that can be earned in the short term, is foregone to be earned later in the future, and not necessarily an absolute loss of revenue. Notwithstanding, the critical point to note is how far into the future

that actually matters because this is what will determine the impact in terms of the extent to which there is likely to be a loss of value as opposed to the loss of actual revenue provided that all other things being equal.

With this in mind, it is important to understand what the trade-offs and other considerations are, and whether the current policy of the government will in fact result in the maximum benefit for the country.

As such, the discussions that follow hereunder seeks to address these concerns.

In the first scenario as demonstrated above, the actual situation is considered.

The analysis shows that at the current pace of development and all other things being equal, the invested capital will be fully recovered by 2035. Consequently, the government’s take will increase from 14.5% to 45%, giving rise to an annual revenue of approximately $13.457 billion.

However, considering the time value of money, earning US$13.457 billion twelve (12) years from now is worth the same as US$6.7 billion in today’s money (Present Value/PV).

In the second scenario, the implication of ring-fencing in the Stabroek Block is such that the pace at which the development is currently taking place will be delayed by at least two-three years between each project. In other words, owing to the effect on the free cash flow available to the oil companies to the extent where it would be significantly reduced, the pace of future developments will be hindered. As a consequence, rather than having ten-FPSOs producing 1.2MMbbls by 2030, the other five FPSOs will take another fifteen years to develop into the production stage.

Henceforth, all other things being equal, effectively the ring-fencing provision is highly likely to result in production increasing to 1.2 MMbbls not until 2050 as opposed to 2030, with the invested capital being fully recovered by 2055 instead of 2035, almost 32 years later as opposed to 12 years later in the first [actual situation] scenario. Additionally, in the second scenario, government’s revenue is an estimated US$5.6 billion annually by 2035 with a present value of US$2.8 billion as opposed to US$13.5 billion with a present value of US$6.7 billion in the first scenario. Furthermore, when production peaks at 1.2 MMbbls under the second scenario in 2055 (3-decades from now) the annual revenue of US$13.5 billion [then] will have a present value of US$2.092 billion; effectively translating to a loss of value of US$4.61 billion, when taking into account the time value of money 12-years from now into the future versus 32-years from now into the future.

CONCLUSION This analysis proves that the current policy of the government in terms of the Stabroek Block development will derive the maximum benefit for the country after

considering all the varying factors and different scenarios above.

Finally, when the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo spoke of the possibility of losing into the future, owing to ring-fencing [with his use of] proverbial terminologies, what he actually meant is exactly what I have demonstrated in the foregoing analysis.

Henceforth, it is important that

one understands the complexities of the issue, the varying degree of impact under different scenarios, and under which scenario would ultimately derive the maximum benefits for the country within the shortest possible timeframe.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

First Minister of Scotland’s family is waiting to die in Gaza THE head of the Scottish Government is married to a Palestinian woman whose parents left Scotland a few weeks ago to visit her mother in Gaza.

Her brother is a Palestinian doctor living in Gaza with four kids, including a twomonth-old baby who is probably dead by now. Speaking at the conference of the ruling party, Mrs. Yousaf says her family has said goodbye to each as they wait to die.

Mrs. Yousaf says the people of Gaza are saying goodbye to each other and just waiting to die. She said that Israel is simply killing people wantonly. If you are the faint-hearted type, do not read Mrs. Yousaf’s presentation to the conference of the ruling party of Scotland.

Politics is a strange force. Mrs. Yousaf’s husband is one of the top rulers in the UK since the UK’s union is Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland. The First Minister of Scotland and Wales are very important policy-makers. Yet in her speech, Mrs. Yousaf chastised the British Government for sending a spy plane to Israel rather than assistance to Gaza.

Why I say politics is strange because the West is always lecturing the Third World on inclusive democracy, but why is the voice of

Scotland not included in the policy output of the UK government? Why Scotland has no say about sending assistance to Gaza. Isn’t the First Minister of Scotland a decisive force in the implementation of policies in the UK? What is taking place in Gaza may exceed some of the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime against the Jews. What the Nazis did is that they rounded up entire villages of people and put them on a train to go to their death. The form it is taking in Gaza is that people are not travelling to their death; they are simply waiting to die as the bombs drop on them because they have nowhere to run.

But even in Nazi Germany, the Jews had a safety valve. The partisans in all the European countries would attack many of the trains and free the occupants. There are no partisans in Gaza shooting down the Israeli planes. There is no army in Gaza, so there is no army protecting the civilian population.

I want to quote extracts of what Mrs. Yousaf said, but I think some people may be depressed at her description. Again I say politics is a strange thing. If after the horrors Mrs. Yousaf described in Gaza, why does she not press the First Minister of Scotland to request arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the Israeli Prime

Minister and the chairman of the armed forces of Israel?

Mrs. Yousaf painted a picture of war crimes in Gaza. Her stories brought tears to countless people in the room when she was speaking. Her husband, the First Minister, cried too. Why then would Scotland not do it? I am not a student of international law, so I don’t know if only countries can request warrants from the ICC. Scotland of course, is not a country. If Scotland or Amnesty International or Doctors Without Borders can request the ICC to arrest members of the Israeli Cabinet for war crimes, then it should be done ASAP. Now it is interesting to note what the moderator of the CBS interview programme, “Face the Nation”, Margaret Brennan, asked President Biden’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan. She enquired if destroying the infrastructural system of food, water and electricity in Gaza does not constitute a war crime.

Now that is CBS, a strong supporter of Israel when the bombing of Gaza began.

Now Jack Tapper, an anchor at CNN pressed

Sullivan on the issue of water, electricity and food and in fact embarrassed him by quoting the American condemnation of Russia doing the same in Ukraine. Tapper told Sullivan “But you’re not telling the Israelis to let the Palestinian hospitals have power.”

Yesterday, I wrote that the Western media was flooding the world with pro-Israeli reporting but the war crimes in Gaza are opening the eyes of the Western media. They know war crimes have taken place in Gaza and are continuing. There is no way, people like Brennan and Tapper, without an ounce of sympathy for the Palestinians, would have put those questions to Sullivan if they were not aware of the terror the daily bombing is causing in Gaza. I would urge readers to pay special attention to Tapper’s question to Sullivan, I repeat it; “But you’re not telling the Israelis to let the Palestinian hospitals have power.” This is the very US that tells the world it is the leader of the free world. In philosophy, there is a methodology named deconstruction.

I will deconstruct the word, “free” in another column.

Man arrested for allegedly stabbing wife to death in Princeville Backdam A man is in police custody for allegedly killing his wife on Monday morning in Region Eight.

The victim was identified as Christina Holder, a 42-year-old cook from Princeville Backdam, Potaro.

Police noted that the incident occurred around 02:00 hours Monday at the couple’s camp at Princeville Backdam, Potaro.

Investigations reveal that Christina and the suspect have been in a common-law relationship for the past 12 years, and they live and work at Princeville Backdam.

On October 15, 2023, about 23:00 hours, the victim and the suspect were at their camp imbibing ‘high wine’ with coke and water while playing cards.

According to a dredge worker at a nearby camp, about 02:00 hours on Monday, he was awakened by a noise coming from the couple’s camp, which is about 100 feet away from where he sleeps.

The worker told police he heard Christina and her husband arguing, and then there was a crashing sound, after which Christina was heard screaming for help.

The worker said he immediately ran to the couple’s camp and saw Christina naked with several stab wounds on her body, including her face and arms. She collapsed to the ground, and the suspect was also there with blood on his body. The matter was reported to the Mahdia Police Station.

Detectives visited the scene about 04:45 hours Monday, where Christina’s naked body was seen lying motionless on the back, with multiple stab wounds to her body, face and arms.

The body was then escorted to Mahdia District Hospital’s Mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

The suspect was contacted by Police and told of the allegation levelled against him, to which he responded: “She accused me of f*#*king a Spanish girl.”

The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Mahdia Police Station.

The alleged murder weapon was recovered and lodged, as investigations continue.

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7,000 pre-school children screened for health conditions –– Health Minister GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

SINCE its launch two months ago, the Comprehensive Child and Young Health Programme (CYHP) has been making significant strides, with 7,000 preschool children already assessed for health conditions.

This is according to the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, as he answered questions posed by the Department of Public Information (DPI) Saturday last.

Minister Anthony noted that approximately 12,000 children will be screened during this round of screening.

“We have about a small percentage more to complete and then once we complete that, we are going to look at those who are now in the nursery and to be able to screen all of those in the nursery and then we’ll go on to primary and secondary,” Dr. Anthony stated.

From the number of children who are already screened, 1,000 children were diagnosed with different types of conditions and they will be provided with assistance from the ministry, which is free of cost.

“The severity ranges, but some of them might need spectacles, others might need a hearing aid, others might need some interventions may be because they have skin rashes, different things; so whatever it is that we

find, we then bring them into one of our clinics and we try to resolve the problems that they have,” he further explained.

The collaborative programme by the Ministries of Health and Education seeks to ensure that children undergo preventative checkups to detect any underlying illness or conditions at an early age.

It forms part of a holistic approach to battle the high number of

chronic non-communicable diseases in Guyana.

The ministry intends to screen 27,000 nursery-level children by the end of 2023.

This will be expanded to the primary and secondary levels.

It is being supported by the Mount Sinai Health System and Hess Corporation , which would have donated equipment and materials towards the programme.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony

Additional $900M to complete Black Bush Polder road rehabilitation –– Min. Edghill

By Naomi Parris

WITH 13.7 kilometers of the main access road in Black Bush Polder, Region Six, already completed, another $900 million will be expended to complete remaining rehabilitation works on the road by the end of the year.

This was revealed by Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, over the weekend, during a community engagement with residents.

In 2021, the ministry had signed two contracts to the tune of $195 million for the rehabilitation of the road.

Construction then was divided into three lots.

“You all know the trouble we would have had in building and maintaining and while building allowing the use of the road I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your co-operation.

The challenges we have had, we have worked them out together,” Edghill told residents.

Apart from the works be-

ing done on the main access road, the ministry, through its miscellaneous roads programme, has done a number of communities.

“The government has done a tremendous amount of work to move this region out of its state of depression neglect and some instances where people were basically punished because of the way they voted and we have transformed that.”

Blackbush Polder is the home to over 3,000 rice and cash crop farmers who depend on the main access road to transport their produce to the markets.

Residents from the community, over the years, would have lamented the deplorable conditions of their roads on several occasions.

During the engagement, Edghill assured that the two additional contracts will see more extensive work being done to improve the lives of farmers and residents.

“By the end of 2023 early 2024, we would have completed the rehabilitation of 17 kilometers of your main

access road.”

Meanwhile, at the regional level, works are underway to construct the Corentyne four lane highway.

“One of the major things that are happening and you will see how you fit into this is that we are upgrading the entire Corentyne highway from Palmyra to all the way to Crabwood Creek and that will be moved into a four lane road.”

For this project, two contractors are working on expanding existing bridges and culverts to accommodate the highway.

Already, for the year 2023, government expended $40.6 billion to improve roads and bridges countrywide.

The Ministry of Finance’s 2023 mid-year report revealed that, of that amount, a sum of $39 billion was spent on roads, while $1.6 billion was spent on bridges.

The report highlighted that several mega-projects are well underway to facilitate the government’s transformative infrastructural agenda. These include the Linden to Mabura Hill Road, and the new structures and relocation of utilities stretching from Palmyra to Crabwood Creek, in Region Six. According to the report, “The upgrading of the East Bank Public Road from Good Success to Timehri is expected to commence before the end of the year.

The upgrading of the section from Providence to Grove will commence in the third quarter of this year.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Guyana pledges to fortify non-oil economy –– Government eyes infrastructure investment amid multi-billion-dollar capex drive, Finance minister tells LatinFinance

GUYANA is pressing ahead with bold plans to channel billions of dollars in investment into non-oil sectors, including infrastructure, in a bid to boost the economy’s long-term competitiveness and to limit dependence on fossil fuels following the discovery of vast oil reserves off its coast, the country’s

Finance Minister said.

“We are going to pump as much oil as we can, but we want to ensure that our non-oil sectors are competitive, sustainable and diverse,” Guyana’s Finance Minister, Ashni Singh, told LatinFinance in an interview.

“Our focus is the economic diversification of Guyana.”

The government has identified transportation infrastructure, energy, agriculture and tourism as drivers of its plan to dramatically remake the country over the next five years, transforming it into a hub for the north of South America. Singh said Guyana plans capital expenditure of roughly $1.5 billion annually

in the coming years to make this happen.

He said its infrastructure agenda will be financed via domestic capital mobilisation but also with the support of multilateral and commercial financing. Guyana’s sovereign wealth fund, created following the discovery of oil, currently has in excess of

$1.8 billion in reserves.

“Improvement of transportation infrastructure will open economic spaces. It will increase trade and economic integration, laying the foundation for non-oil sectors to expand,” Singh said on the sidelines of the World Bank/ IMF annual meetings in Marrakech, Morocco.

Guyana’s oil production is targeted at 1.2 million barrels a day by 2027, turning it into the world’s fourth largest offshore oil producer, following the discovery of massive oil reserves off the country’s coast by ExxonMobil.

BRAZIL LINKS “While oil is great news, we are mindful of the challenges posed by high growth from natural resources and know they are finite.

So, it is paramount that we use this period to transform our economy and the non-oil sector,” he said.

Guyana has begun construction of an all-weather highway to Brazil and is improving road links to Suriname. The highway to Brazil will allow Brazilian agri-businesses in the north of that country to reach Guyana’s ports in less than 12 hours, instead of up to six days to get to their own coast. A companion plan is in energy, which is focused on replacing inefficient and costly fuel oilbased generation to improve manufacturing capacity and quality of life for the country’s 750,000 people.

Guyana will double installed capacity and replace existing plants in the next three years with 300MW of gas-powered plants and 100MW in solar power. It will also add mini grids in small towns and provide individual solar panels to 30,000 households.

In agriculture, Singh said the country’s aim is to be the “bread basket” of the Caribbean, exporting food to neighbours.

It is opening up 50,000 acres of new farmland that will be used for traditional crops, such as rice and sugarcane, but the government also wants to replicate the success of neighbouring Brazil with soybeans, corn

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh and, potentially, tropical varieties of wheat.

HOTEL BOOM The attention from oil has increased overall interest in the country, including as a tourism destination.

Today, eight internationally-branded hotels are under construction in Georgetown, the capital, which will add around 3,000 hotel rooms.

European, Latin American and U.S. airlines have entered the market of increased flight frequencies in the past two years.

The non-oil economy grew by 8.3per cent in the first half of 2023 from a year earlier, compared to 36.4per cent for the overall economy.

Overall, Guyana’s economy expanded by more than 62per cent last year and is forecast to finish 2023 with 38per cent growth. The government is anticipating sustained annual growth above 20per cent for the remainder of the decade.

The IMF, in its latest regional economic outlook, pegged Guyana’s growth next year at 26.2 per cent, compared to the average for Latin America and Caribbean of 2.3 per cent.

Business Monitor International, a division of Fitch, said in a September report that cumulative growth over the next five years would be 115 per cent.

(Credit: LatinFinance)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Data Protection Act: Balancing Privacy and Progress in Guyana

GIVEN the importance of data in the technological era, the Data Protection Act is a key piece of legislation to prevent its misuse or theft. It aims to protect the personal data of Guyanese.

The Attorney General’s Chambers has emphasised the importance of data protection in Guyana’s digital economy development and the need for a legal framework.

Sunday’s episode of ‘Simplifying the Law’ featured contributions from Joann Bond, the Deputy Chief Parliamentary Counsel at the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and Ismat Bacchus, a State Counsel, who provided insights into the provisions of the act.

Pursuant to the legislation, personal data encompasses any information that can be utilised to discern the identity of an individual. This can include data such as a person’s name, address, or identification number.

It provides that personal data must be processed lawfully, fairly, and in a transparent manner, and only collected for specified, explicit, and legitimate purposes.

Moreover, this data must be accurate, kept up to date, and processed in a manner that ensures appropriate security.

According to the Deputy Chief Parliamentary Counsel, the act safeguards the human right to privacy and autonomy, and creates the enabling environment for development.

She pointed out, “Once you have good legislation, investors would want to invest in your jurisdiction, because data is always being shared, particularly across borders. So, one of the important things for investors is ensuring that their data is secured…..”

While upholding an individual’s right to pri-

vacy and autonomy, the Data Protection Act also provides for exceptions to avoid infringing on other basic rights, such as access to information and freedom of expression.

Passage of the data protection legislation also allowed for the implementation of other pieces of legislation to facilitate the digital transition, such as the Planning and Development Single Window System Act, and the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act. It identifies the key players in the data processing operation: the data controller, the data processor, and, in the enforcement aspect, the data protection commissioner.

Counsel Bond outlined that the data con-

of personal data, there are several exemptions.

“Not all of the provisions under the act would apply to all types of data. In the case of data being collected by law enforcement, or the Guyana Revenue Authority, for example, that is data that is being collected to calculate tax or in the interest of national security, so under the act, this type of data is exempt from what we call the disclosure requirements, meaning that, when being collected, this type of data doesn’t have to be disclosed to the data subject,” she said.

Disclosure requirements are applicable in many cases, except in the case of data that is collected for domestic or personal use, or data that is covered by ei-

troller has the overall responsibility for the processing of the personal data, while the data processor is any person or group that processes the personal data on behalf of the controller.

In the enforcement aspect, the data protection office is the independent supervisory body for the law, and the data protection commissioner has extensive powers, such as investigating complaints from persons concerning abuses in the processing of personal data.

Meanwhile, State Counsel Bacchus noted that, while the act covers an extensive assortment

ther a legal professional privilege, such as attorney-client privilege.

She emphasised that consent for data processing is only required in the absence of a legal basis for processing the data.

“There are certain pieces of legislation that require certain data to be processed, so the data controller and the data processor would have to comply with these acts, so they wouldn’t require consent to go ahead and start that processing. However, if, for example, they intend to use that data in some way that would cause the data subject to suffer

some form of intrusive aspect of their data being shared, then they would require consent,” she explained.

Along this vein, she added that the rights of the data subjects within the confines of the law are also enshrined in the legislation.

“If the data controller or the data processor’s actions harm the data subject in some way, then the data subject

is entitled to compensation. Section 97 (1) states that any person who suffers damage or distress as a result of some sort of contravention to the act by a data controller or data processor, is entitled to some kind of compensation from that data controller or processor.

So, persons shouldn’t be worried that they are left without a claim,” she relayed.

The duo made it clear that there are several systems that must be put in place to facilitate full implementation of the act, such as the appointment of a data protection commissioner.

However, once implemented, the provisions of the act will effectively regulate the collection, keeping, processing, use, and dissemination of personal data.

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Tourism products in Region Nine under development

THE government, via the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), is making efforts to create two innovative tourism experiences in Region Nine, in line with the goal of turning Guyana into a top-tier tourism destination.

The initial tourism experience revolves around pottery in the village of Toka in the North Rupununi district.

In order to accomplish this, the authority has recently organised a level two pottery training exercise involving multiple villagers.

Throughout the training session, the participants gained knowledge on various clay varieties.

With this training, facilitated by Margarete Cornette, the participants will acquire the ability to effectively communicate their knowledge to visitors.

According to GTA, this experience will be a first of its kind for the village, and it will also add to the diversification of tourism experiences in the country.

This specific experience will bring much authenticity to the sector and will allow visitors to create memorable experiences.

Additionally, the authority has been working to develop a comprehensive tour package in the village of Shulinab, South Central Rupununi.

This package is being developed through collaboration with Visit Rupununi and Kamadi Adventures, two private tour operators in the area.

This new experience is geared at attracting persons interested in rustic experiences while at the same time learning about what the village has to offer.

It includes horseback riding, hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting, among other activities.

During the past months, GTA has been assessing several villages and working with the residents to unlock the areas’ potential in order to develop more tourism products.

The authority has been doing this through a ‘village circuit’ initiative which was implemented to develop what the region has to offer into unique experiences.

In July, a grant for the development of a new product was introduced, with a maximum funding of $1 million.

This grant aims to alleviate expenses and provide local operators with the opportunity to bolster and broaden the tourism sector.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Products from the level two pottery training exercise involving multiple villagers

Tour package in the village of Shulinab, South Central Rupununi includes horseback riding, hiking, camping and wildlife spotting, among other activities

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Girls’ Empowerment project for leadership skills launched by Courts, Rotary

COURTS and the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC), over the weekend, teamed up to launch Girls’ Empowerment Retreat 2023, which was held at the School of the Nations.

The retreat, which catered to thirty-five girls 13 to 16 years old, was designed to give them the opportunity to focus on matters related to self-care and personal development with the ultimate aim of developing their leadership skills. This retreat was organised as part of Courts’ partnership to recognise the International Day of the Girl Child.

According to Rotary, the empowerment for girls is the ability to make choices and create positive change in their own lives, as well as in their families and communities. Empowered girls become empowered women. Therefore, reaching out to the girls of our world is the heart and purpose of Rotary’s Empowering Girls Initiative. The main aim of the retreat was to inspire, educate and empower girls in difficult circumstances to

nership between Unicomer, through its Courts brand, that will introduce the participating girls to basic life skills training, focusing on areas such as self-care and wellness, emotional intelli-

DILLON Frank called ‘Buggaz’ was, on Monday, remanded to prison for the fatal stabbing of 25-yearold Mark Hilliman, during an altercation earlier this month.

Frank of South Sophia appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

He was not required to plead to the capital offence, which alleged that, on October 7, 2023, at Longden and Croal Streets, Georgetown, he murdered Mark Hilliman.

Frank was remanded to prison until November 21, 2023.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that Hilliman, a labourer of La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demer-

ara, was killed around 22:00 hours on the date in question.

The police had reported on that date, about 21:35 hours, the victim’s reputed 28-year-old wife, who is employed at the KFC outlet on Water Street, was on duty when Frank, who is not known to her, went into the KFC outlet and was interfering with her.

“During the said time, the victim (Hilliman) went into the KFC outlet to visit his reputed wife, and, after he observed what was happening, he told the suspect to desist from interfering with his wife,” the police said in a release.

According to the police, a heated argument ensued between the men who both armed themselves with

knifes and left the KFC outlet The duo headed East between Longden and Croal Streets, and Frank allegedly stabbed Hilliman to the left of his chest.

The victim walked a short distance and fell while Frank made good his escape on foot in a southern direction.

The victim was picked up by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The incident was caught on CCTV cameras in the area, which led to Frank’s arrest.

He reportedly cut off his ‘locs’ in an attempt to alter his appearance.

Eldri Ferguson-Mackey, Director of Marketing and Merchandising, engages participants in an interactive session on empowerment reach their full potential as well as boost self-confidence and help them understand the importance of personal development.

Eldri Ferguson-Mackey, Director of Marketing and

Merchandising, Guyana and the Dutch Caribbean, for Courts says that she expects that the event’s impact to extend beyond the day itself and set the stage for future initiatives aimed at

Man receives 19-year sentence for setting partner ablaze

WAZIM Perreira was, on Monday, sentenced to 19 years in prison for brutally dousing his reputed wife, Olivia DeFreitas, in gasoline and lighting her ablaze in 2019.

Last month, Perreira appeared before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall at the Demerara High Court for the capital offence of murder.

He admitted to the charge, which stated that, on October 10, 2019, in the county of Demerara, he murdered DeFreitas.

According to information, around 13:00 hours on the day in question, Perreira visited the woman and requested to talk to her. The woman refused and Perreira went away. He returned shortly after with a container of gasoline and he threw it on the woman and set her ablaze.

The woman raised an alarm and neighbours came running to her rescue. The woman was then rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where she

enhancing the girls’ self-esteem, confidence, and skills aligned with their career aspirations.

The retreat is the first part, in what is expected to become an ongoing part-

gence, teamwork, communication, problem solving, financial literacy, entrepreneurship and healthy relationships.

The expected outcomes of the initial retreat are expected to be: boosted confidence, self-esteem and understanding the importance of self-care and personal development with the ultimate aim of enhancing their awareness of developing the relevant skills that align with their career goals and allow for employability. Unicomer Guyana has committed to implement (in collaboration with RCGC) a mentorship programme with women in leadership across the Unicomer Guyana network, and 35 girls, commencing in January.

Among the day’s activities were presentations on self-discipline, self-discovery & goal setting, digital etiquette, digital wellness, developing leadership skills & self-confidence and sessions on self-care.

The courts team also facilitated a “Lunch and glam session” as part of the day’s activities.

was being treated for second-degree burns. She later succumbed to her injuries.

Perreira was represented

by Attorney-at-law Adrian Thompson, while the State was represented by Madana Rampersaud.

During the sentencing hearing on Monday, Justice Morris-Ramlall pointed out that the attack was premeditated and was carried out in the presence of the victim’s brother, who was a minor at the time.

The Judge underscored that DeFreitas had suffered 35-40 per cent burns on her body, leading to her hospitalisation for over a month before her untimely demise.

The judge also considered the profound impact of this horrendous crime on the surviving family of the deceased. DeFreitas’s minor children have been deprived of the care of both parents.

Furthermore, the victim’s brother remains traumatized, having witnessed the gruesome attack on his sister.

Given these aggravating

factors, Justice Morris-Ramlall did not give weight to any mitigating factors for Perreira.

She highlighted that Perreira’s mental evaluation revealed concerning personality traits, including manipulation and a propensity for hostility, aggression, and impulsiveness. The evaluating doctor recommended continuous psychiatric attention.

In the end, the judge sentenced Perreira to 19 years in prison and ordered that the prison officials deduct the time he had spent in pre-trial custody. Additionally, he was mandated to continue undergoing anger management counselling.

Perreira is no stranger to the court and police. In 2018, he was sentenced to 18 months in jail for escaping from the Kitty Police Station.

Following his release, Perreira murdered DeFreitas.

In 2015, Perreira was charged with attempted murder, but the charge was later dismissed after he compensated the victim.

‘Buggaz’ remanded for murder

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Illegal connections result in Bourda stalls’ fire

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

–– Fire Service issues warning, urges electrical safety THE Guyana Fire Service sprang into action, after receiving an urgent call about a fierce blaze erupting at the junction of Bourda and Charlotte Streets in Georgetown Monday morning. The incident, fuelled by illegal electrical connections and

Samantha Glasgow, was not spared either. Radiated heat left its northern external wall in shambles, obliterating a solar panel, a CCTV circuit camera, and an AC unit.

The investigation by the Guyana Fire Service pointed towards the illegal

for consumed energy. Such actions not only endanger those working on the installations but also pose a significant risk to the entire community.

Illegal connections increase the likelihood of fires and electrical overloads, which can wreak havoc on

The scene of the fire at Bourda and Charlotte Streets Georgetown substandard wiring, inflicted substantial damage to nearby structures and stalls.

Several fire tenders, including #89, #105, and #16, promptly raced to the scene, deploying crews from Central, Alberttown, and Campbellville fire stations.

The fire’s epicentre was a wooden stall owned by Norlana Brown, primarily used as a cosmetology shop.

Tragically, the stall and its entire inventory were reduced to ashes.

The destructive flames didn’t stop there. The neighbouring stall, #13A, owned

by Vanessa Peters and also operating as a cosmetology shop, bore the brunt of the radiated heat, causing severe damage to its southern external wall and annihilating 3.5 meters of PVC ceiling.

Samantha’s Shoe Box and Clothing Store, located at stall #2 and owned by

use of electrical connections through defective wiring as the catalyst for the catastrophic fire.

The illicit connections became overburdened and overheated, eventually resulting in arcing and sparking, which provided the initial spark for the inferno.

Efforts to quell the fire were led by one jet working from water tender #89’s tank supply, bolstered by a water relay system from water carrier #16.

Although the fire was eventually brought under control, the incident serves as a dire reminder of the perils associated with illegal electrical hookups.

The Guyana Fire Service reiterates its stern warning against the use of illegal connections for electricity.

Illegal electricity connections represent illicit attempts to tap into electrical installations in an effort to reduce or evade payment

households and businesses alike. Electrical overloads occur when excessive current flows through an electric circuit, causing wires to overheat and potentially ignite.

The danger of slack connections, both internal and external, further compounds the risks.

These connections, when not mechanically sound, can result in electrical arcing, a phenomenon known to trigger fires.

Residents are strongly urged to refrain from resorting to illegal electricity connections and to instead prioritise electrical safety.

The Guyana Fire Service advises vigilance and encourages individuals to equip their homes and businesses with fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors to mitigate the potential risks associated with electrical mishaps.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Trio acquitted in elderly couple’s murder, arson

SEVEN years after the brutal murder of an elderly rice-farming couple, Mohamed Munir and his wife, Bibi Jamila, who were burnt to death in their Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo home, three men were, on Monday, freed, due to insufficient evidence.

Jason Howard called ‘Smelly;’ Shamadeen Mohammed called ‘Milo’ and Joel Blair were on trial before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow at the Demerara High Court.

The men had denied killing the elderly couple on April 17, 2016, at Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo in the course or furtherance of arson.

During the trial, a voir dire was called to determine

in their house. A deportee was then contacted and a gang of six, which included a driver and a lookout, was formed and the plan was hatched to rob the couple.

Police investigators learnt that the men, upon breaking into the couple’s house, hunted for valuables and, in the process, the couple woke.

This newspaper had reported the perpetrators then attempted to gain access to the couple’s bedroom at the rear of the building, but because of the security feature, they were unable to do so.

The angry bandits then decided to light a sofa afire and threw a gas bottle into the fire, resulting in a loud explosion minutes after they

Dead: Mohamed and his wife Bibi Munir the admissibility of evidence of the trio’s caution statement. However, on Monday, Justice Barlow ruled that the statement was inadmissible.

After the prosecutors closed their case, the Judge directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty against the men since there was insufficient evidence to prove the charge.

Munir, 75, and his Bibi, 69, perished shortly after 23:00 hrs on April 17, 2016, after they were trapped in the raging fire which destroyed their heavily grilled, two-storey house.

Their badly burnt bodies were retrieved from the debris after the fire was finally extinguished. Eyewitnesses had claimed that the blaze started in the upper flat and spread throughout the house within minutes.

Reports indicated that one of the suspects, who lives at the back of the Munirs, revealed to a friend that the couple had $20M cash

fled the scene. They then fled through a track that led to a church and a cemetery in a street behind the couple’s house. From their hiding place, they heard Mohamed and Bibi Munir screaming for help.

Police have received reports from a neighbour, who said that she saw two persons in the couple’s veranda before the fire broke out.

The neighbour also claimed to have heard Mrs. Munir screaming that ‘bandits’ were in the house.

Jason Howard, one of the accused, has had previous encounters with the law. In February 2023, he and another individual were acquitted of an attempted murder charge due to insufficient evidence.

In 2019, Howard received a 12-month prison sentence after being found guilty of robbing a fruit vendor in 2016. He also faced several other robbery charges.

Gov’t expends nearly $1B on Sports development THE government has channelled almost $1 billion into sports development on a national scale, through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

This is according to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Ramson Jr, who was speaking during an outreach at the Port Mourant Sports Club, Corentyne Berbice, on Saturday.

The Minister remarked that the previous administration had taken no significant action to promote sports in the region.

“Because of the under-investment and the lack of investment and the decisions that were destructive for this region, we saw systematic destruction happening in this entire region,” the minister stressed.

Nevertheless, this destruction quickly transformed into advanced development when the PPP/C government assumed office in late 2020.

As affirmed by the minister, during his initial trip to the region, he perceived the capabilities of the youth and subsequently mandated his ministry to vigorously enhance the different playgrounds.

“Since this government came into power since His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has led the People’s Progressive Party government…the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports has spent close to $1 billion from our programme in sport alone,” the minister revealed.

Meanwhile, making reference to the track and field stadium currently being erected in New Amsterdam, the minister disclosed that it will comprise a modern pavilion constructed with glass and offering excellent seating options.

He remarked that the current investment for building that pavilion stands at $150 million.

Additionally, the minister said that the government has spent over $1 million euros on the synthetic material for both the New Amsterdam and the Linden tracks.

“Over the period of time, we have started to invest and we have seen how important it is to make the investment in community grounds so that young people can have a safe space to play and to develop their talent,” Minister Ramson expressed. >>>>>>>>> Picture saved as Youth No Caption needed

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday October 17, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Kapil Dev (2) Mohinder Amarnath

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was the winning World Cup captain in the 1987 tournament?

(2) Who claimed the Man of the Match Award in the final?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

ENGLISH RACING TIPS HEREFORD 09:25 hrs Sister Julienne 10:00 hrs Meechlands Magic 10:35 hrs Classic Concorde 11:10 hrs Sinister Minister 11:45 hrs Happy Index 12:20 hrs Top Cloud LEICESTER 09:15 hrs Kamanika 10:25 hrs Adaay In Devon 11:00 hrs Chris’s Mate 11:35 hrs Spirit Genie 12:10 hrs Lowton 12:45 hrs King Of Fury NEWCASTLE 11:20 hrs Boldly 11:55 hrs Military March 12:30 hrs Flickering Flame 13:00 hrs Supreme Tenacity 13:30 hrs Mr Heinz 14:00 hrs Port Erin 14:30 hrs Elettaria 15:00 hrs Beneficiary 15:30 hrs Blackcurrent IRISH RACING TIPS GOWAN PARK 08:55 hrs Romford 09:30 hrs Old Faithful 10:05 hrs Alpheratz 10:40 hrs Yuzu 11:15 hrs Manhattan Dandy 11:50 hrs Randall Poets Lass 12:25 hrs Timeless Piece SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS FAIRVIEW 08:25 hrs Lord Nelson 09:00 hrs Admiral’s Ransom 09:35 hrs Rimaah 10:10 hrs Globetonic 10:45 hrs Angelsea AMERICAN RACING TIPS FINGER LAKES Race 1 Ghost Giant Race 2 Maddie’s Surprise Race 3 Pot Of Gold Race 4 Sneads Race 5 Samay Race 6 North Coast Race 7 The Institute CANADIAN RACING TIPS FORT ERIE Race 1 Ashwicken Race 2 Don’t Stop Dreamin Race 3 Storming Lady Race 4 Take A Chance Race 5 J M R Gemma Race 6 Getting Ahead Race 7 Perfection Saver

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Women’s League Division One off to spectacular start with 40 goals scored by GDF , Potaro Strikers and GPF THE opening weekend of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and Women Football Association (WFA) Women’s League Division One tourney witnessed an impressive display of football with a total of 40 goals scored by the Guyana Defence Force, Potaro Strikers and the Guyana Police Force.

The Guyana Defence Force secured a dominant 13-0 victory against Fruta Conquerors with top scorer Glendy Lewis netting an astonishing five goals on Saturday, at the GFF National Training Centre (NTC) at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Abioce Heywood and Glengie Lewis also made a significant contributions with two goals each, while Yeneira Kenswil, Kellyann Niles, Odessa Romeo and Niomie Williams each scored one goal.

In the opening match of the evening, Potaro Strikers had an impressive game by keeping Santos goalless

and scoring a total of 12 goals.

Olivia Oselmo, Solomie Obermuller, Tytheon Jones, each contributed three goals, while Latoya Williams, Duane Williams and Anis Livan added one goal each to secure the victory.

On Sunday, October 15, the excitement continued as another 15 goals were scored in the match between the Guyana Police Force Football Club and Pakuri Jaguars.

The Guyana Police Force dominated the game with Jennell Edmonson, Melina Larson, and Akeelah Vancouten each scoring three goals; Shanic Thornhill and Lakeisha Williams added two goals to the scoreline, while Angelisa Larson and Colette Rutherford contributed with one goal each.

“This marks an exceptional beginning for the Women’s League Division One. Fans can anticipate witnessing a remarkable level of competition over the coming weeks

as teams strive to claim the title of the inaugural Women’s League Division One champions,” the GFF noted.

The Women’s League Division One comprises seven football clubs, including current and former national players. These clubs are Santos, Potaro Strikers, Fruta Conquerors, the Guyana Defence Force, Pakuri Jaguars and the Guyana Police Force football clubs.

The champions of the league will be rewarded with a cash prize of $300,000.

Additionally, the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth-placed clubs will receive cash prizes of $200,000, $100,000, $75,000, $50,000 and $25,000, respectively.

The league is scheduled to conclude on November 11.

The Women’s League Division One is a platform for the finest female clubs selected from the nine Regional Member Associations of the Federation

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Cricket World Cup 2023: Australia beat Sri Lanka in Lucknow for first win

AUSTRALIA finally secured their first win of the World Cup, but only after surviving some nervy moments against Sri Lanka.

The five-time champions, who lost to India and South Africa in their opening two matches, were in another difficult situation when Sri Lanka reached 125-0.

But Sri Lanka fell apart, losing all 10 wickets for 84 runs to be bundled out for 209.

Even when faced with a modest target, Australia were 24-2, and had to be guided from trouble by maiden World Cup half-centuries from Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis, who made 52 and 58 respectively.

Pyrotechnics were added by Glenn Maxwell’s 31 not out from 21 balls, and Marcus Stoinis’ unbeaten 20 from just 10, sealing Australia’s victory with five wickets and almost 15 overs in hand.

The fluctuations of the contest were matched by drama off the field in Lucknow, where high winds dislodged signs from the roof.

Falling debris dropped on to the pitch and seats, forcing spectators to the sheltered area at the back of the stands. The International Cricket Council said no one was hurt and the sparse crowd was able to move back closer to the field when the wind calmed.

Australia are now only two points off the top four places in the group table and next meet Pakistan in Bangalore on Friday.

That match, along with contests against New Zealand and England, will go a long way to deciding their progress.

Sri Lanka, so far the only team in the competition to have suffered three defeats, play the Netherlands in Lucknow on Saturday, knowing that another loss would probably send them out.

AUSTRALIA FINALLY UP AND RUNNING Australia’s only World Cup defeat by Sri Lanka came in the famous 1996 final and there were periods in this game when a repeat was possible.

Following disappointing performances in their opening two matches, Australia were off the pace after losing the toss in Lucknow.

Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka added 125 for the first Sri Lanka wicket, taking advantage of some tame bowling and errors in the field.

Nissanka survived half-chances to wicketkeeper Inglis and the flying Marnus Labuschagne at mid-wicket. Perera could have been lbw to Maxwell’s off-spin but Australia did not review, perhaps reluctant after Mitchell Starc burned an awful review on Nissanka from the first ball of the match.

It took an excellent catch from David Warner on the leg-side boundary to remove Nissanka and get Australia firing. It was the first of two smart catches by Warner, who even helped the groundstaff with the covers when it rained.

Sri Lanka’s collapse was inexplicable.

Nine wickets for 52 and six for 31. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa improved as the day went on to

claim four wickets, captain Pat Cummins two and a direct-hit run-out.

The wind brought a dust storm at the end of the Sri Lanka innings, and the start of the Australia chase was hit by left-armer Dilshan Madushanka, who had a livid Warner and scoreless Steve Smith lbw in the same over.

For Smith, it was a first duck in a World Cup match.

But Marsh, possibly playing for his place as Travis Head returns to fitness after a broken hand, was superb in powering the ball through the off side. He was cruising before coming back for a needless second and was run out by Dimuth Karunaratne’s accurate throw from the deep.

With 129 still needed, Inglis’ uncertain start did little to calm Australian jitters, but the gloveman born in Leeds grew into a stand of 77 with Labuschagne.

Labuschagne was on 40 when he miscued to mid-wicket to give Madushanka his third wicket. By then, though, the jeopardy had gone from the situation and Maxwell arrived to crash four fours and two sixes, while Stoinis ended it with a maximum.

‘I hope this can kick us forward’ - what they said Australia captain Pat Cummins: “We didn’t say much before the game, but after two losses we wanted to get back to where we know we can be with our high standards.

“Their openers started really well and we were staring down the barrel of a big score. But we stuck together, all our bowlers did their job and to finish it off for 209 was a great effort.

“The outside noise doesn’t bother us too much. We know what we can do as a squad.

“I hope that this result can kick us forward.

All three aspects of the game came together today and we need to keep that up.”

Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis: “Congratulations to our opening partnership. But, after that our top and middle-order were struggling, that’s why I think we ended up getting the lower score - 290 or 300 would be defendable.

“Last two games we batted really well. Today was a little bit of a struggle. We have six more matches where we can do better. I have confidence in our batting unit. Madushanka bowled really well too.”

Player of the Match, Australia’s Adam Zampa: “I didn’t feel great. I have had trouble with back spasms over the past couple of days so it was just about trying to get through that one.

“I’ve had days where I’ve felt better and bowled better. Personally I know I’m not at my best, but it’s nice to be on this end of the result.”

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch on the Test Match Special podcast: “This is a huge win. Australia’s tournament starts now.

“Pat Cummins led from the front with the ball and in the field. It was a sharper performance after those first 20 overs.

“Mitch Marsh reassured the rest of the changing room that Australia are here to attack. Inglis needed this for his confidence.”(BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Concacaf Nations League…

Jamaica and Honduras advance to Nations League quarter-finals after wins over Haiti and Cuba, respectively

BOTH Jamaica and Honduras are on their way to the 2023-24 Concacaf Nations League quarter-finals after claiming victories against Haiti and Cuba, respectively, while Suriname staved off relegation by downing Grenada on the final match day of Group B of League A. Jamaica clinched the top spot in Group B by rallying for a 3-2 victory over Haiti at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Jamaica finished in first place with 10 points to book their quarterfinal spot, while Haiti finishes with three points and has been relegated to League B. It was an ideal start for Haiti, as they grabbed a 1-0 lead in the 15th minute through Frantzdy Pierrot, who polished off a quick counterattack with a header into goal off a cross from Fafa Picault.

But Jamaica would strike right back just a few minutes later in the 18th to even the score at 1-1, with Demarai Gray taking advantage of a misplayed clearance from the Haitian defense.

It stayed level going into

Part of the action in matches played the second half when things began to tilt in Jamaica’s favor. The Reggae Boyz started to take control and seized a 2-1 lead in the 57th when a cross from Michail Antonio reached the boots of Shamar Nicholson, whose shot squeezed past Haiti’s goalkeeper Jhony Placide for the goal.

Jamaica kept moving forward in search of an insurance score and it dutifully arrived in the 66th thanks to Leon Bailey, who slipped past the Haitian defense on-

side to receive a free kick and finish past Placide for a 3-1 Jamaica lead.

Haiti refused to give up though, and Pierrot made it a 3-2 affair in the 87th by heading in a corner kick.

But the spoils belonged to Jamaica, as they avoided any stoppage time drama to pocket the victory.

HONDURAS VS. CUBA In a must-win match for both sides, Honduras topped Cuba 4-0 at the

Estadio Nacional Chelato Ucles in Tegucigalpa, Honduras to qualify for the quarterfinals. Honduras finish second in the group with seven points, while Cuba complete their campaign in third-place with five points.

Honduras could not have asked for a better start, as they scored early in the 9th to help settle any nerves, with Denil Maldonado spearing home a header at the far post off a cross from the left flank.

Honduras were flying

and quickly it became 2-0 to the home side in the 13th, as a Cuba giveaway led to a quick break and a pass into Antony Lozano, who finished past Cuba’s goalkeeper Raiko Arozarena.

The Catrachos kept their foot on the gas into the second half and stretched the lead to 3-0 in the 67th through Romell Quioto, who calmly converted a penalty after Alberth Elis was fouled in the area during a corner kick.

Honduras then added a late goal for good measure, with Bryan Rochez finishing from inside the area in the 90th to complete the 4-0 score-line.

SURINAME VS. GRENADA Four first-half goals powered Suriname to their first victory of their CNL campaign in a 4-0 final versus Grenada at the Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadion in Paramaribo, Suriname.

Suriname complete the 2023-24 CNL with five points and have avoided relegation with the win, while Grenada finish with one point and have been relegated to

League B. Djevencio van der Kust opened the scoring for the home side in the 12th minute with a left-footed laser from outside the area to make it 1-0 to Suriname.

The home side kept things rolling and the lead was doubled to 2-0 in the 27th when 2019-20 CNL top scorer Gleofilo Vlijter found the back of the net by turning in a rebound after a Van der Kust shot hit the crossbar.

Suriname stayed on the front foot and the scoreboard read 3-0 in the 35th thanks to Leo Abena, who was able to squeeze a shot in over the line after Grenada goalkeeper Jason Belfon had made a save moments prior.

Suriname then tacked on a fourth in the final moments of the first half, this time via an own goal from Grenada’s Jacob Bedeau, who accidentally deflected a deep Suriname cross into his own net for a 4-0 Suriname lead.

The second half saw Suriname calmly see things out despite a few looks from Grenada to secure the precious victory to keep themselves in League A for another campaign.

ICC chair Barclay on Arthur remark: ‘Will review all criticisms’ “We will just take it as it plays out, get to the end of the event. I’m satisfied that it will still be an outstanding World Cup”

By Nagraj Gollapudi

THE ICC will review the criticism by Pakistan team director Mickey Arthur that the India vs Pakistan World Cup match on October 14 in Ahmedabad felt more like a “bilateral series” game, though it remains confident that the tournament will be remembered as an “outstanding” one once it’s over.

Arthur admitted after his side’s seven-wicket loss that with barely any Pakistan presence at the packed Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the team was affected by the partisan crowd.

Pakistani fans were conspicuous by their absence at the ground, with no fans having received visas to travel across the border. Only a handful of Pakistani journalists made it in time to cover the match, and a small number of Pakistani-origin

fans who are residents/citizens of other countries.

“Look, I’d be lying if I said it did [not affect us],” Arthur said after the match.

“It didn’t seem like an ICC event, to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI event.”

It’s been a gripping World Cup, and that’s just the ticket saga Asked to respond to Arthur’s comments, ICC chairman Greg Barclay seemed to downplay them as the kind of criticism that is par for the course at such tournaments. “Every event that we have, there’s always criticisms from various quarters,” Barclay was quoted as saying by AFP in Mumbai, where he was attending the International Olympic Committee Session, which voted for T20 cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

“Things that perhaps we’ll take away

and try to work on, try to do better… so this event’s only [at] the start. Let’s see how the whole thing plays out and we’ll go away and we’ll review what could change, what we can do better, how we can improve World Cups and the general offering around cricket.

“We will just take it as it plays out, get to the end of the event. I’m satisfied that it will still be an outstanding World Cup.” While the India vs Pakistan contest was watched by a record crowd - both at the ground and globally - the organisers have not yet put out the official attendance.

The Ahmedabad venue is the largest ground in cricket in terms of capacity with over 110,000 seats.

ESPNcricinfo has sent a query to both the ICC and the BCCI, the tournament hosts. There has also been no response from ICC and BCCI to a query on to how

many seats were officially put on sale for the marquee contest.

When the plan for ticket sales for the tournament was released in late August, the BCCI had said September 3 was slotted solely for the India vs Pakistan game tickets. On October 8, the BCCI announced it was putting a further 14,000 tickets on sale for the match. Three days later, the BCCI put out a post on X (formerly Twitter) announcing that another set of tickets - no numbers revealed - originally meant for its official partners, was being sold.

There have been numerous complaints from fans about the online ticketing system in place and the early part of the tournament - excluding India games and games held in Delhi has been marked by low attendances.

(Cricinfo.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

England’s Jos Buttler ‘absolutely’ believes after ‘big setback’ against Afghanistan CAPTAIN Jos Buttler says England’s shock defeat by Afghanistan is “a big setback” but “absolutely” believes they can reach the World Cup semi-finals.

The defending champions lost by 69 runs, their second defeat in three games, in a major blow to their hopes of qualifying from the group stage.

England may need to win five of six games to progress with matches against hosts India, unbeaten South Africa, Pakistan and Australia still to come.

“We must keep that belief,” he said.

“It is a big setback obviously. Before the tournament started you have a different idea of how the first three games would pan out.

“We have to show a lot of character, resilience and most of all belief. There are a lot of excellent players in there.

“We’ve got a lot of resilience and will

England World Cup Captain Jos Buttler come back fighting.”

Having decided to bowl first, England were quickly put under pressure as Afghanistan’s openers put on 114 for the first wicket in just 16.4 overs with Rahmanullah Gubraz in destructive form.

Despite a mid-innings fightback that helped restrict Afghanistan to 284, a series of tame dismissals soon put Buttler’s side under pressure and, with spinners Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi impressing, they never recovered.

“They outplayed us today,” Buttler added.

“It’s always about execution and throughout the game we were not at the level we wanted to be consistently enough.

“You’ve got to find ways to impose yourself on the game and execute your skill.”

Asked by Sky Sports if he still has

faith in England after two defeats, Buttler said: “Absolutely.”

Opening bowler Chris Woakes struggled for England, ending with figures of 0-41 from four overs, as his difficult start to the tournament continued.

The double World Cup winner has taken a combined 2-135 from 18 overs across the first three games with an economy rate of 7.50 an over.

“He’s not bowled at the level we know he is capable of,” Buttler told BBC Test Match Special.

“But he’s a class bowler and he’s been a high-class leader of our attack for a long period of time. I always retain huge amounts of faith in him.

“He’s been fantastic for England throughout the summer and he’s a class player and you just keep backing that.”

Board, players collaboration needed for improvement: Matthews

MELBOURNE, Australia, (CMC) – West Indies Women captain Hayley Matthews believes improvement for her side will come through a combination of structural improvements in the Caribbean and a personal desire on the part of players to excel.

The losing trend for the Caribbean side continued here last weekend when they went down 2-0 to Australia Women in the One-Day International series, to follow up their 2-1 defeat to the hosts in the preceding Twenty20 International series.

“I think just working harder and wanting to be better as players, finding ways and doing more research on our own game and the opposition that we come up against as well,” Matthews said.

“I think there are a lot of factors that can go into improving your game. Obviously with the structure we have back home it’s quite difficult to get really good

match practice. “[That’s] the reason why tournaments like the WCPL that we’ve just been a part of is so, so important.

“But for sure, I think it goes hand in hand with the board and players to want to get more infrastructure and at the same time for the players to work harder on their game and become better as well.”

West Indies Women fielded a young side during the series, with the likes of teenagers Zaida James and Djenaba Joseph opening the batting in the first ODI. And in a move to further develop the younger members of the squad, a West Indies Women A side comprising several players from the Australia series, will tour Pakistan starting next week for three ODIs and four T20s.

Matthews believes the tour will be an excellent learning curve for those players already learning their trade at international level.

“I think it’s going to be great.

I think we’ve got seven girls from this tour heading down there and I think it’s going to be a great level of cricket for them to go and play,” she explained.

“And not only learn, but hopefully get some confidence from the games as well.

“I think it will be a real test for them and a real tell for them to see where they’re at personally.

“Obviously Australia is quite tough opposition but over in Pakistan, getting the opportunity to play the A-team stuff, I think the girls are coming up against other ladies who they can perform well against.”

Matthews was the leading player for the Caribbean side on the recent tour, taking the Player-of-the-Match award in every T20 International before emerging with the Player-ofthe-Series honour, after dominating with the bat.

However, she missed the opening ODI with a leg injury and even though she recovered significantly enough to turn out in the remaining games, she conceded the injury needed to be managed carefully as she prepared for her campaign in the Women’s Big Bash.

“It was just a Grade One tear but since that third T20, I’ve been in a pretty pain-free zone and managing it pretty well, hence the reason for me missing the first game,” she said.

“But at the same time I wouldn’t have come back unless I felt pretty fit to do so.

“Representing West Indies is really, really important and something I always want to do and want to give my all to.

“I’m glad that I’ve been able to come back and I’ve been managing well with it and I’m ready to get going in the WBBL now that this is all over.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 17, 2023

GCA’s NBS 40-over second-division cricket round-up

Six 50s registered, Devon Layne grabs only five-for

By Sean Devers

THE latest round in the GCA’s New Building Society (NBS) 40-over second-division tournament on Sunday, saw six 50s being registered in steaming heat in the city, while GNIC’s Devon Layne captured 6-21 to claim the lone five-wicket haul of the day.

At the bone-dry and parched DCC ground in Queenstown, GNIC’s Quincy Richardson blasted seven fours and an equal number of sixes as he hit a pugnacious 86 from 45 balls to make the highest score of the round and continue his fine form since his return from club cricket in Trinidad.

Richardson’s team-mate Sheldon Chapman scored an entertaining 79 from 51 balls decorated with six fours and seven sixes, while Jermaine Grovsnor fell two short of GNIC’s third half-century in the match when he fell for 48 from 40 balls with five fours and six, as GNIC were dismissed for 308 in 34.4 overs.

Richarson made 76 and took a fivefor in the previous round, was removed at 115-1 by Sherwin White who finished with 3-68.

Joel Gilks had 3-51 and Shawn Thompson took 2-31 for Positive Foundation of Agricola, who were bundled out for 53 in 12.4 overs.

Raequan Adams, who hit two fours in 10, was the only batter to reach double figures as Layne (6-21) and Deswyn Butts (3-25) were the architects of destruction for GNIC who won by a massive 255 runs.

At Malteenoes on Thomas Road, the

Ronaldo Scouten made 78 for 4R Lions host lost to Transport by four wickets after TSC dismissed MSC for 193 in 36.3 overs before reaching 197-6 in 28 overs.

Sindal McAllister top scored for MSC with 34, but only Trenton Liverpool (25).

Nkosi Barker (15) and Collis Semple (16) of the other batters reached double figures.

Dave Mohabir (3-21), Myheim Khan (3-27) and Akeem Redman (2-42) were the main wicket-takers for TSC. Khan returned with the bat to score an attractive 63 and got support from Rayed Latif who ended undefeated on 42 while Emmanuel Lewis contributed 20.

Marcus Watkins had 3-49 while Barker took 2-22 in a losing cause.

At MYO on Woolford Avenue, 4R Lions beat Sophia by two wickets.

Quincy Richardson made the highest score of the round Under a cloudless sky Sophia batted first and six of their batters reached 25, although Ronald Hercules top-scored with 49 after adding 64 with Steven Mangal who made 33 on a ground with very small square boundaries where only fours can be scored, even if the ball goes out of the ground.

Dwyane Peters (25), Malcolm Morris (45), Jonathon Nichols (33) and Eon Daniels (20) all got starts without converting them into ‘big 50s’ as Sophia reached 308-8 when their overs expired.

Munish Outar had 3-62 while Rabindra Samaroo and Romeo Deonarain, the MVP in the U-19 tournament, captured two wickets each for 4R Lions who galloped to 309 in 38.1 overs.

Devon Layne took 6-21 for GNIC Renaldo Scouthen clobbered nine fours and three sixes in his 57-ball 79 while Rampertab Ramnauth followed up his Man-of-the-Match half-century in the GCA’s U-19 final the previous day at Bourda, with an elegant 63 from 51 balls with 12 boundaries.

Sachin Balgobin’s 55-ball 52 with six fours and a six was the third 50 of the innings, while Samaroo chipped in with 20.

Bowling for Sophia, Steven Mangal had 3-33 and Stevin Rose grabbed 3-41.

NBS has been sponsoring this tournament for just over a decade and action is scheduled to continue this weekend.

GCC, who beat DCC in Queenstown in the 2022 final, are the defending champions.

Reggae Boyz hold off Haiti to top group

MIAMI, United States, (CMC) – Jamaica’s Reggae Boys secured top spot in their group when they held off a determined challenge from Haiti, to carve out a 3-2 victory in their final preliminary game of the CONCACAF Nations League.

Playing in Group B of League A at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain on Sunday night, Jamaica needed second half goals from Shamar Nicholson and Leon Bailey, in order to break a 1-1 half-time stalemate and take full points.

Israel-based forward Frantzdy Pierrot had scored the first goal of his brace in the 15th minute to give

Haiti a surprise lead before Demerai Gray continued his excellent scoring form with an 18th minute strike to level the contest.

“I’m over the moon to be fair. I would’ve been a bit more happy if I’d managed to get one of my chances,” said Jamaica’s West Ham star Michail Antonio.

“To be fair, we finished top of the league – that’s what we set out to do before the competition even started.

So now we’ll find out on Tuesday who we’re going to play next and hopefully win that game and keep progressing up.”

Jamaica twice went close in the

opening exchanges before an unmarked Pierrot nodded in Fabrice Picault’s cross into the middle of the box, against the run of play.

The lead lasted only three minutes, however, Haiti’s defence failing to clear Antonio’s cross into the box, leaving Gray to score courtesy of a deflection.

Antonio fired over the bar in the 24th minute before Mechack Jérôme squandered a great chance to put Haiti ahead when he struck the crossbar with a 41st minute free kick.

There were anxieties towards the end when Pierrot out-leaped the Jamaica defence to head in a corner in

the 87th but the French Caribbean side could not find the all-important equaliser despite the five minutes of stoppage.

In another League A contest, Grenada slumped to another heavy defeat, going down 4-0 to Suriname at the IR Franklin Essed Stadium in Paramaribo.

The result marked the Spice Boys’ third loss and left them bottom of Group B and with relegation from League A. In Group A of League B, both St Lucia and St Kitts and Nevis tasted defeat. While St Lucia were beaten 2-0 by Guadeloupe at Grande-Terre, the Kittitians suffered a 1-0 loss to Sint Maarten at home in Basseterre.

CWI to invest US$2.5 million in prize monies for regional cricket

AHEAD of the start of the CG United Super50 Cup, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a major increase in prize money and bonuses for teams participating in the tournament as well as other regional competitions, totalling over US$2.5 million over a four-year period.

With the Region’s marquee List A tournament set to bowl off today, there is the incentive for the champions to take home a top prize of US$100,000 as well as the Sir Clive Lloyd trophy when they win the grand final on Saturday 11 November under lights at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

The losing finalists will receive

US$50,000 while the team that tops the points table in the league phase will also get US$50,000. This is the biggest prize money in the history of the tournament.

Dr Kishore Shallow, President of CWI said: “The aim is to incentivize our cricketers, which will ultimately result in more intense and competitive cricket. We expect this along with other developmental programmes will help to close the gap between international cricket and our regional tournaments.

These new prize monies represent a significant increase in the reward purse for teams in regional cricket. We firmly believe

this will act as a fillip to players’ performances and their pursuit of excellence. This is part of our investment in the game and those who fly the flag on the field.”

The increase also extends to all senior men’s and women’s tournaments. There is a big boost in the West Indies championship that will be played in the first half of 2024.

The champions of this traditional “red ball” four-day, first-class competition will win US$250,000. The second-placed team will receive US$100,000.

There is an increase in winnings for the Women’s CG United Super50 Cup and the

T20 Blaze. The winners of the 50-overs will receive US$20,000 next year with a minimum increase of US$10,000 annually over the next four-year cycle. The runners-up will receive half these amounts.

The T20 Blaze winners will also be rewarded with an increase – US$10,000 for the winners next year -- with further increases annually for the upcoming four years. The runners-up will receive half these amounts.

CWI is finalising a new four-year MoU with the West Indies Players Association, which will see further increases for individual players, including a major boost to women’s remuneration.

Board, players collaboration needed for improvement: Matthews

see story on page 22

West Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2023