Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 11-02-2024

11th FEBRUARY, 2024

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See Inside No.107351

Towards a more peaceful, united region - President Ali emphasises importance of dialogue, cooperation and respect for national sovereignty in forging greater partnerships - outlines transformative power of diplomacy

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The Finance Department staff of the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate on the West Coast of Demerara joined hands in a team-building exercise in the fields yesterday. They happily assisted planters with semi-mechanical planting of sugar canes deep in the ICBU cultivation

Oil trade between Guyana, India reached ‘all-time’ high of US$149M SEE PAGE

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— between 2021 and 2022

EU looking to further GTU last submitted financial report enhance trade 35 years ago relations with Guyana SEE PAGE

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- close to $2 billion collected from teachers unaccounted for

Silica City’s draft master plan to be soon available

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Towards a more peaceful, united region

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- President Ali emphasises importance of dialogue, cooperation and respect for national sovereignty in forging greater partnerships - outlines transformative power of diplomacy

By Clestine Juan IN a world often divided by borders and beset by conflicts, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has outlined his visionary blueprint for regional harmony that transcends geopolitical divides, with Guyana leading at the forefront.

During his recent address at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Annual Officers' Conference, President Ali articulated an inspiring vision for Guyana and its neighbours, aiming to build “bridges of friendship and understanding” that promise to usher in a new era of peace, stability, and prosperity for the hemisphere.

This ambitious aspiration, he said, not only redefines Guyana's role on the international stage but also sets a compelling example for nations worldwide in the pursuit of a more harmonious global community.

“Good neighbourliness is not merely a diplomatic nicety it is a pragmatic approach to addressing shared challenges, promoting regional integration, and enhancing the well-being of all our citizens through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for each other's sovereignty,” President Ali declared, highlighting the founda-

tional values guiding Guyana's foreign policy and its interactions with neighbouring countries.

The Head of State reflected on the deep-seated belief in the transformative power of diplomacy to resolve conflicts and foster mutual respect.

Delving deeper into the philosophy of collaboration that Guyana champions, President Ali underscored the country's commitment to peaceful dispute resolution, a stance that is notably reflected in its approach to the longstanding border controversy with Venezuela.

“That is where this controversy will be determined at the ICJ, and we are 100% committed to this process, and it is an unwavering position of Guyana,” he affirmed, pointing to the nation's dedication to international law as the bedrock of its foreign relations and territorial integrity.

President Ali not only reaffirmed Guyana's diplomatic strategies but also issued a loud call for regional cooperation in the face of global challenges such as climate security, energy security, food security, fair trade, and human rights.

Also, under his administration, President Ali has been focused on

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

strengthening ties within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and promoting regional initiatives, such as increasing agricultural production and reducing food import bills, to enhance food security in the region.

“We can build bridges of friendship and understanding that transcend borders and contribute to a more harmonious and prosperous hemisphere.

And that is the aspiration of Guyana,” he passionately stated, envisioning a future where collective efforts pave the way for a region marked by peace, prosperity, and mutual understanding.

This vision for the hemisphere resonates with Guyana's active role on the

international stage, including its membership on the United Nations Security Council, where it has taken a stand on global issues such as the environmental cost of wars and conflicts.

President Ali's advocacy for bridges of friendship goes beyond rhetoric, aligning with concrete actions and policies to enhance regional solidarity and cooperation.

He also touched on the importance of international solidarity, as seen in the support Guyana has received from its Caribbean neighbours and beyond in upholding its sovereignty.

“Guyana was heartened by the outpouring of international solidarity from our friends and allies, both in the Caribbean

and beyond. Their support bolstered our resolve and reaffirmed their belief in the principles of international law, and in particular, the peaceful settlement of disputes,” he recounted, expressing gratitude for the global community's backing.

President Ali reiterated the significance of diplomacy, intelligence-led decision-making, and the strategic reorganisation of national defence to ensure Guyana remains vigilant and prepared, yet always leaning towards peace and collaboration over conflict.

“We must never be found blinking, but ever ready to deter and resist any threat to our country.

This is the mission of the force which you, its officers, are committed to lead,” he stated, underscoring the dual role of the GDF in safeguarding national security while embodying the principles of peace and cooperation that Guyana espouses.

Through President Ali's visionary leadership, Guyana is setting a precedent for how nations can navigate the complexities of modern geopolitics with a steadfast commitment to peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.

Recently, President Ali received the prestigious Global Africa Leadership

Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and transformative path for steering Guyana towards progress.

The award acknowledges his dedication to principles of equity and probity, his vision of a unified ‘One Guyana,’ and his steadfastness and integrity, particularly during the Essequibo territorial controversy He was also recently conferred with the prestigious Order of Freedom of Barbados in recognition of his unwavering dedication to fostering regional integration and strengthening social and economic partnerships.

President Ali's commitment to fostering a cohesive society and his unwavering dedication to unity, inclusivity, and shared prosperity have been highlighted as exemplary qualities that have not only transformed Guyana but also inspired nations beyond its borders.

As the country continues to champion these ideals, President Ali called on Guyana’s neighbours and the wider international community to join in building a more harmonious and prosperous hemisphere, anchored in the timeless values of friendship and understanding.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

GTU last submitted financial report 35 years ago

- close to $2 billion collected from teachers unaccounted for APPROXIMATELY $2B collected from teachers by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) is unaccounted for given the fact that the books of the union have not been audited by the Auditor General’s office over the last 35 years.

The Auditor General’s office on Friday issued a statement which noted that “the last Financial Statement submitted by the Guyana Teachers Union to the Audit Office of Guyana for audit was in respect to 1989 and no subsequent Financial Statement has since been

submitted.”

The statement from the Auditor General followed one issued by the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority, which revealed that the GTU last filed its financial returns 20 years ago.

A brief statement from the registry noted that it received queries from the media about the audited financial statements of the GTU and in examining the records, it found that “Annual Returns required by Section 35 of the Trade Unions Act, Cap. 98:03 to be filed annually by registered trade

unions was last filed by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) for the year ending 31st of December, 2004, on the 31st of March, 2005.”

Under this Act, unions are required to submit a “general statement of the receipts, funds, effects, and expenditure to the Registrar before the 1st May in every year and shall show fully its assets and liabilities at the date…”

The Act states that every trade union which “fails to comply with or acts in contravention of this section, and also every officer of

the union so failing, shall each be liable on summary conviction to a fine of seventy-five dollars for each offence.”

In its 2004 audited report, the GTU collected over $40 million in dues.

Union dues are automatically deducted from the salaries of the teachers and handed over to the GTU. But the government recently said it will stop doing so and has cited the lack of accountability by the union.

The GTU is currently engaged in a countrywide strike action which the

President of the GTU, Mark Lyte

government said is illegal because talks about increase in salaries and oth-

er benefits did not break down with the Ministry of Education.

Guyana joins prestigious Egmont Group

…to bolster global financial intelligence efforts IN a move aimed to develop its financial oversight capabilities,

Guyana has been officially welcomed into the Egmont Group,

the International Association of Financial Intelligence Units.

This is according to a press release from the Attorney General Chambers which said that on February 1, Guyana’s application was granted during the association meeting held in Malta, where Financial Intelligence Units of Oman, Kenya

CFATF Heads of FIU Chair and the Americas Group Representative to Egmont Group with Director of Guyana’s Financial Intelligence Unit, Matthew Langevine

and Timor-Leste were also inducted.

“The Egmont Group now has 174 countries that can co-operate via a secure web portal to exchange intelligence on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism matters,” the release said.

Guyana's application for membership was strongly supported, receiving sponsorship from the Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) of Trinidad and Tobago and the British Virgin Islands.

Furthermore, the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) played a vital role in backing Guyana's bid, demonstrating the regional commitment to strength-

ening financial intelligence and oversight.

At the helm of Guyana's representation in Malta was Director of Guyana’s Financial Intelligence Unit, Matthew Langevine.

This milestone is not just a testament to Guyana's commitment to international financial security standards but also opens new avenues for co-operation and information sharing.

With its membership in the Egmont Group, Guyana is now better positioned to tackle the challenges of money laundering and the financing of terrorism, both domestically and in collaboration with its international partners.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

President Ali positions GDF officers as pioneers of national development

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali says the government will redefine the role of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers, positioning them as central architects of national development by extending their mission beyond traditional military duties to become pivotal drivers of the country's progress in the 21st century.

The Head of State was at the time addressing the opening of the GDF Annual Officers’ Conference at Base Camp Ayanganna, on Thursday last, which is being held under the theme, “Transforming to better confront present and future challenges, by enhancing awareness, adaptability and agility capabilities.”

The President highlighted that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government's commitment to leveraging the skills, education, and training of GDF officers to spearhead various important agencies, projects, and programmes, marking a significant shift towards integrating military expertise into broader developmental goals.

“Last year alone, more than 151 of our officers benefited from overseas training. Twenty-six such training is still ongoing, and 1,500 of our servicemen and women have benefited from

training locally here in Guyana,” he noted, underscoring the government's investment in its military personnel.

This comprehensive training regime, he said, is not merely about enhancing military capabilities but is intricately tied to the broader vision of national development and progress.

With a keen eye on the future, President Ali underscored the strategic importance of aligning military training with the nation's long-term developmental needs.

“This experience that you're getting here; the exposure to training is not only enormous, it is synchronising itself with what the country requires in the next 20 to 30 years,” he stated.

This perspective, the President explained, reflects a deep understanding of the evolving challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, positioning GDF officers as pivotal players in Guyana's journey towards sustainable development and prosperity.

The President's address went beyond mere acknowledgement of the ongoing training programmes, delving into the potential he sees in the officers before him.

“I know most of you by face and name, not by rank and number. I know most of you now by

face and name.

“And a lot of you are under the scope,” he remarked, highlighting a personalised approach to leadership and talent recognition within the GDF. The Head of State pointed to his direct involvement and interest in the professional growth and development of military personnel, viewing them as essential contributors to the nation's future.

Amidst this vision of integration and development, President Ali offered a word of caution and encouragement to the officers, emphasising the weight of the responsibility they carry.

“Don't spoil it,” he advised, alluding to the critical role these officers play in the broader narrative of Guyana's development.

He reminded them of the high stakes involved and the importance of leveraging their training, skills, and experiences for the greater good of the nation.

President Ali did not just outline a path for the GDF officers but also articulated a broader strategy aimed at harnessing the Defence Force's potential to address national challenges.

Through a deliberate focus on education and skills enhancement, the government seeks to prepare its military personnel for leadership roles across var-

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali with Chief-of-Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Omar Khan and others during the conference (Delano Williams photo)

ious sectors, ensuring that their contributions extend well beyond traditional military duties.

Moreover, President Ali stressed the strategic importance of continuous learning and adaptation underscoring the dynamic nature of the challenges facing Guyana and the world at large.

“The continuous upskilling of our human resource assets to meet the changing needs, the changing environment, to meet the changing technology, to meet the demands of the changing assets.

“So, education is continuous. It's a life cycle,” he elab-

orated while highlighting the need for GDF officers to remain at the forefront of technological and strategic innovations to effectively lead in their future roles.

This approach, he explained, reflects a holistic understanding of leadership in the context of national development, where military training intersects with civil administration, project management, and strategic planning.

As the nation looks forward, the President's vision for its defence officers is clear: they are not only guardians of the country's sovereignty but also

architects of its future.

The comprehensive training and development they receive are designed to prepare them for the complexities of leading in a rapidly changing world, where their military discipline, strategic thinking, and leadership skills will be instrumental in steering Guyana towards its developmental goals.

The training for ranks includes a variety of specialised military courses and exercises.

New ranks spend a minimum of six weeks at the Foreign Service Institute for training in Spanish and foreign policy.

The GDF offers specialised training for officers and other ranks, including special forces training, commando courses, intelligence courses, and specialised operations such as jungle operations, anti-narcotics operations, and VIP protection/ escort operations.

Additionally, the training emphasises discipline, teamwork, integrity, and preparing for various scenarios, including disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and defence operations.

The GDF provides opportunities for individuals to challenge themselves, build strong relationships, and contribute to the defence and security of Guyana.

ExxonMobil on track to deliver gas-to-shore project by year-end - Routledge confirms

ExxonMobil has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the crucial gas-to-energy project by the end of the year, signalling a major leap towards energy sustainability and reduced costs for Guyanese citizens.

During a recent press conference, the President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge provided an indepth update on the progress of the pipeline infrastructure that is set to transform Guyana’s energy landscape.

The project, which involves laying a 200km, 12inch diameter pipeline, will channel natural gas from the Liza Phase One and Phase Two Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels to a state-of-the-art power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility in Wales.

Routledge outlined the extensive scope of the pipeline’s journey, from deepwater installations to its onshore segments “...All the way from connections we’ve talked about on the FPSOs, the risers, the deepwater pipeline; all the way up onto the shallow shelf, crossing the seawall, and then all the way down to Wales for the onshore pipeline. At that

An artist’s impression of the Wales gas-to-energy project

point, it passes over to the government, who is responsible for the integrated plant for the NGL extraction and the power generation, and then the tie-in to the national grid,” he detailed.

Thus far, the project has seen significant advancements with approximately 40 per cent of the onshore pipeline laying completed and the offshore portion about 55 per cent finished.

“Last year, we had installation campaigns in two parts: we had the ultra-shallow piece, which are mud flaps at low tide…we did about 18 kilometres. So, we executed a

good portion of that…then we also installed in the shallow water…going from that 18-kilometre mark out to where the shelf drops down into the deep water,” Routledge added.

Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), along with its co-venturers in the Stabroek Block, are behind the pipeline’s construction, which has an estimated cost of US$1 billion and is cost recoverable.

The Government of Guyana has earmarked $80 billion in the 2024 budget for the project, highlighting its significance to national development.

Moreover, in December 2022, the Government and US-based LINDSAYCA, in collaboration with the local CH4 Group, signed a US$759 million contract for constructing the power plant and NGL facilities, reinforcing the project's momentum.

As the project moves forward, Routledge highlighted ongoing coordination with developers to align commissioning plans, ensuring a seamless transition into the operational phase.

“We are on schedule and will have that completed and ready to introduce gas by the end of this year. Then there will be coordination. We have an ongoing coordination interface activity with the developers for the plant so that we can align the commissioning plans as appropriate,” he assured.

The conversion of natural gas from ExxonMobil’s offshore operations to electricity is a key component of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s objective to lower energy costs by at least 50 per cent through an energy mix which incorporates gas, solar, wind, and ‘hydro’ power.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Broad Outlook THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) from its very inception as a political party 74 years ago embraced an approach to governance that is pro-working class. Both in and out of office, it fiercely defended the rights of ordinary citizens to live a life of dignity and prosperity, having regard to the question of affordability and sustainability.

This governance approach has been evident from the budgetary em-

phasis of all PPP/C budgets which were heavily skewed in favour of the social sectors such as education, health, housing and water, all of which impacted directly on the standard of living of the Guyanese people, in particular the poor and the vulnerable.

Budget 2024, which was recently presented by Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh and passed by the House, is no different. Emphasis is again placed on human and

infrastructural development.

Two fundamental pillars shape the administration's fiscal plan, namely the implementation of mechanisms aimed at injecting additional disposable income into the economy and, secondly, the development of the country's economic and social infrastructure.

This will lay the foundation for future growth which will bring prosperity to all Guyanese. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had highlighted the positive

impact these initiatives will have on the economy as a whole, such as employment creation, improved delivery of social services, tax reductions and enhanced remuneration for public servants.

These are not isolated or fragmented developmental initiatives but are situated within a much broader philosophical outlook which are embodied in the PPP/C's manifesto.

According to the Vice President, who is also General Secretary of the rul-

ing PPP, "these are macro-elements, goal elements that are consistent with our manifesto. But they would find themselves reflected through a series of projects, policies and programmes that will be enshrined in the budget."

Several measures will be rolled out in the new fiscal year such as salary increases for public sector workers, increased spending in the security sector and the country's defence capability, improved delivery of social

services and infrastructural development consistent with the pro-people orientation of the PPP/C administration.

The PPP/C must be commended not only for bringing out a national budget on a timely basis but also for staying the course of a pro-people approach to national development as envisioned by its leaders over seven decades ago.

GECOM allocated $3.5B in preparation for elections

Dear Editor,

DURING the recent budget debate concerning the National Assembly’s consideration of Governments Fiscal Expenditure plans for 2024, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira defended the 2024 budget allocation to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), to enable the Statutory Body to be fully prepared for the holding of Elections. Her excellent articulation of rational arguments drew no meaningful counter-challenge.

The preceding supports our constitutionally enshrined democratic ideals, and our Dr. Irfaan Ali-led People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government through this budget, recognises the constitutional level of GECOM’s autono-

my and needs for fulfilment.

It is without contradiction, demonstrative of the necessary commitment required, to ensure the removal of unnecessary financial obstacles to the rollout of the organisation’s readiness plans.

Key in this respect is the avoidance of delays due to a lack of funds that can impact preparedness schedules, for the institution’s hosting of general and regional elections due in 2025.

C r i t i c a l l y, G E C O M during this year, is expected to focus on strengthening several essential pillars to guarantee accelerated readiness from good preparation.

Part of the imperatives for GECOM to focus on during this time, must address capacity building and training.

In addition, the Commission must ensure the review of the different areas requiring strengthening for preparing

the election day staff.

Linked to the foregoing is the review and updating of the various training manuals.

These essentially will have to be in alignment with the changes that were made to the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) Cap. 1.03, and the National Registration Act Cap. 19:08. The importance of these should never be underscored, given that they were born out of the highest levels of national and international recommendations, made to counter former CEO Keith Lowenfield and others incessive abuse of the unamended formats of the legislation and the raw threat these realised to our country’s democracy.

A careful review of these two “Act;” will bring full awareness of the role of GECOM staff along with their responsibilities and particularly, the consequences

for failing to abide by the correct legal obligations.

The reviewing of these two acts will also introduce and reinforce a better training of GECOM Trainers, who will now have to prepare an estimated fourteen thousand staff to work and produce free and fair elections.

Most of the election’s day staff are our teachers or other public service employees who meet the established criteria. The presiding officers, deputy presiding officers, polling clerks, ballot clerks, and information officers must be fully trained and work according to the revised and prepared manuals. Of note, these upcoming elections are likely to be conducted utilising approximately two thousand four hundred (2,400) polling places, with not less than five persons working at each polling station. Hence, it is appropriate and necessary

for GECOM to make sure that they train and prepare enough persons to draw from with particularly good capacity building.

Significantly, GECOM must be fully cognisant of the fact that they will need 10 quality returning officers. At the last general and regional elections, the “culprits” at GECOM did not name all 10 ROs in a manner that allowed sufficient background scrutiny and opportunity for absolute rejection.

The cabal clandestinely took a long time to catapult Clement Mingo from Region Five to Region Four as RO. The rest is history as he is awaiting to spend his “time”.

Further, GECOM must be careful in the preparation and selection of the approximately 75 deputy returning officers. This is crucial because one must not forget that several of the previous senior

staff are before the Courts for not following the procedures and the East Coast drama must never happen again.

Free and fair elections must be held in Guyana. The approval of the requested appropriation of $3.5 billion will certainly enable GECOM to undertake fluently, all their necessary procurement endeavours to facilitate and advance their preparation for the holding of elections on time.

Kudos must be accorded to the Guyana Government for ensuring that the institution could deal transparently with a greater level of preparatory activity, and in an unhindered manner.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Can the Ali presidency engender class and ethnic reconciliation?

THE Marxist/Leninist theory of class struggle is that capitalism is inherently exploitative and class contradictions follow inevitable dialectical evolution into revolution. It was at the beginning of the 20th century that the theory began to face questioning.

The modification of the theory took the form of a division into developed capitalism and agrarian capitalism. 20th-century Marxists began to question the possibility of revolution in countries where capitalism was strong and therefore would use psychological and cultural mechanisms apart from the limited distribution of wealth, to prevent the dialectics of revolution.

The contribution in this context of the Italian theorist, Antonio Gramsci was brilliant and exceptional.

The acceptance that class contradictions follow different pathways in different capitalist countries that would not necessarily bring about a revolution that Marx could not have foreseen became ubiquitous among Marxist thinkers.

The Russian Revolution made this thinking impregnable. It was Russia, the

poorest country in Europe that endured an anti-capitalist revolution and not the more advanced industrial nations of Europe. Marxist/ Leninist theory held sway in countries where capitalism was nascent and there was no industrial base.

The Third World became the bastion of revolutions – Cuba, Nicaragua, Iran, Grenada, Ethiopia, among others.

The Frankfurt School of Philosophy in Germany then came up with a pessimistic position on class contradictions, a perspective that was not easy to demolish. One of its philosophers, Herbert Marcuse, in his breath-taking, magnum opus, “One Dimensional Man” argued that 20th century, industrialised nations have used science and technology to generate massive levels of productions that were used to accommodate labour demands thus weakening the relentlessness of the dialectics While Marcuse, like Gramsci before him, acknowledged that capitalism will not abolish its inherent exploitative nature, its levels of wealth are used to mollify labour demands.

Marcuse argued, in identical fashion as Gramsci decades before him, that at the psychological level, at the subliminal level, the labouring masses feel that they share in the wealth that capitalism produced.

Anti-Marxist critics of Marcuse came up with the theory of the welfare state in capitalism whereby surplus value, a key concept for Marx in proving ruthless exploitation in capitalism, has been used for the benefit of the working class through state intervention.

In no other part of the world this comes close to be factual than in Scandinavia.

The level of working class satisfaction in Scandinavia poses a serious threat to traditional Marxist/Leninist theory. And what the Scandinavia pattern has shown

is a marked difference between capitalism in the US and other European countries where Thomas Piketty’s theory of inherent class contradictions in capitalism is very persuasive.

The Scandinavian model also upturned the traditional approach to the role of the state in Marxist theory whereby the state is seen as an instrument of the ruling class. Greek philosopher Nicos Poulantzas and French philosopher Louis Althusser argued that in large, industrialized nations, the state achieves a certain level of autonomy from the ruling classes and effect changes in politics and sociology. It was the relative autonomy of the state in Scandinavia that allowed for an acceptable sharing of wealth by the capitalist class

In the Third World, the relative autonomy of the state has allowed for the application of the Scandinavian model. Countries like Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, Mauritius, and Saudi Arabia, have transitioned to levels of capitalism that have mollified the brutal exploitation of the labouring masses.

In CARICOM, with oil wealth of Trinidad could have been used to create the first Scandinavian model. Trinidad with its small population and massive wealth missed a chance of a lifetime in turning Marxist theory on its head. CARICOM now have a second opportunity. It is in Guyana.

Anti-PPP critic, Professor Clive Thomas stated that in the coming years, oil income will be so massive

that the government will not know how to handle it.

Trinidad missed the boat because it did not have an Irfaan Ali. I believe Dr. Ali will know what to do with that colossal wealth. He is a different CARICOM leader that the region has seen. He has two options.

Go the route of Trinidad or use petro-dollars to replicate the Scandinavian model.

In his three years so far, I have reason to believe that Guyana’s economy will avoid the harshness of class contradictions.

Marxist/Leninist theory posits that class contradictions inevitably result in revolution. Scandinavia modified that paradigm.

In Guyana, class and ethnic problems have strived in a country where wealth was almost invisible and competition for that tiny wealth became a zero-sum game. Dr. Ali, using the state and its income, can reshape the economy to bring about the eradication of class and ethnic tensions. Only anti-PPP haters will deny there aren’t signs of that on the horizon.

GTU looking bad with revelations of lack of accountability

Dear Editor,

THE teachers’ strike might end up being a blessing in disguise, that can catapult us into massive school reforms, given the revelations coming out.

I support collective bargaining to the hilt and believe all agreements must be honoured. I believe all university graduates who are teachers should be able to own a duty-free car.

Any society that can afford it should make sure that teachers’ pay and benefits, and all workers for that matter, should be able to live in comfort and dignity.

But, I also believe in strong accountability for teachers,

Ministries, parents and students.

Revelations that the GTU has not submitted financial statements and audited statements for decades make them look very bad.

How come all those teachers marching in the streets did not hold their union accountable? They think the government should be accountable because it’s three years since their agreement was signed.

It’s almost three decades and the GTU has not been accountable and transparent for their stewardship with funds and reports. We await the GTU’s explanations.

Under the rules, unions are required to submit a “general statement of the re-

ceipts, funds, effects, and expenditure to the Registrar before the 1st May in every year and shall show fully its assets and liabilities at the date…”

Audited accounts must be submitted too. So, it’s kind of hypocritical to make the government look bad by resorting to a strike, when the due process and protocols that have to be followed before strike action, have not been followed. The strike action surprised me because the government just gave the teachers some good raises and benefits that others did not get.

If you converted the $25,000 bonus to a percentage that would have made

the salary increase larger than 6.5 per cent. If you converted the in-range adjustments for graduate teachers, it sends up the percentage of increase even higher. Free scholarships are available to teachers to improve their qualifications. I think the union has erred in not acknowledging the good faith efforts of the government, and discussions going on to address the remaining items in the agreement.

More shocking is the VP’s revelation that the absenteeism rate among teachers is almost 30 per cent. I understand that the lateness of teachers and students is a big problem too. This is simply unacceptable, and

parents and students should not be silent about this.

If teachers are not present at school, there is probably little or no instruction going on. (In these modern times, some teachers still have students copying notes from the blackboard and textbooks as if that is “teaching”).

Guyana does not have a formal program of “substitute teachers” as in the USA. If teachers are absent and late so much it affects the coverage of the curriculum and therefore student performance at the NGSA and CSEC exams would suffer.

Many factors contribute to high student achievement.

However, “teacher quality” is the most highly correlated

factor that leads to high student achievement.

So, we need to be asking why 40 per cent of our students do badly at the NGSA, and why do so many students do not pass five or more subjects. As a nation, how do we move past this unacceptable student performance? How can we improve teacher accountability while we get the government to do its part? It’s not a one-way street.

Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall Civil Society Advocate

Enter the Dragon!

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CHINA is entering another Year of the Dragon this weekend, blowing hot and flaming with confidence that its contribution to the development of humanity over time and its aim to establish a nation of socialism with Chinese characteristics will be achieved sooner rather than later.

While most major nations are grasping with the constant changes recycled by their political and economic systems, China is pushing ahead with modernisation at home and globalisation abroad.

Leading to the 2024 Lunar New Year, emphasis in the traditional mainstream international press was on playing-down China’s positive economic growth figures, but Beijing’s emphasis was on entering the Year of the Dragon with specific goals in mind, including improving and increasing its role on the world stage through what it calls ‘Major Country Diplomacy with Chinese Characteristics’ and promoting ‘a shared future for Humankind’.

Indeed, while the propagandists in the citadels of capitalism closed last year working had still trying to paint China as what it’s not, the leadership in Beijing spent the end of 2023 getting ready for the jumpy transition from Year of the Rabbit to Year of the Dragon.

A Central Conference on

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Work Relating to Foreign Affairs was held in Beijing on December 27-28 – attended

by President Xi Jinping and other top members of the government and ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) leadership.

There, it was established that since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012 – when Xi became President – “numerous historic achievements have been secured and historic changes have taken place in China’s external work” on “the great journey of advancing the cause of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics in the new era.”

The conference offered 10 points of proof: I. Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy is “opening up new vistas in the theory and practice of China’s diplomacy” and “providing the fundamental guideline for advancing major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics” II. Showcased “distinct Chinese characteristics, style and ethos in its diplomacy” and “established an image of a confident, self-reliant, open and inclusive major country with a global vision” III. Advocated “building of a community with a shared future for mankind, pointing the right direction for human society leading to common development, lasting peace and security and mutual learning between

civilisations” IV. Followed “the strategic guidance of head-ofstate diplomacy” and playing “an increasingly important and constructive role in international affairs” V. Taken “a holistic approach to its relations with all parties, with a view to fostering major-country dynamics featuring peaceful coexistence, overall stability and balanced development” VI. Expanded “a comprehensive strategic layout” and forming “a wide-ranging, high-quality global network of partnerships” VII. A d v a n c e d “high-quality Belt and Road cooperation” and establishing “the world’s most broadbased and largest platform for international cooperation@ VIII. Worked “to both pursue development and safeguard security and effectively upheld its sovereignty, security and development interests with a firm will and an indomitable fighting spirit” IX. Taken “an active part in global governance”

and “shown the way in reforming the international system and order”; and X. Strengthened “the centralised, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee” and “brought about greater coordination in China’s external work.”

In the dozen years under Xi’s leadership, along with Brazil, India, Russia and South Africa, China has helped develop a new thrust for development of developing nations, propelled by themselves and their own resources.

The BRICS group (now under Russia’s Presidency): represents more-than-half of Humanity and occupies most of Planet Earth; has expanded from five nations to now having another 25 knocking at its doors; has its own New Development Bank (based in Shanghai) to assist developing nations; controls 47% of global oil; and members are moving swiftly to trade in their own currencies.

China is also working alongside the G-77 nations

to help accelerate global political change to back the goals of developing nations and at its recent summit in Uganda in January 2024, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called on Beijing to drive the momentum for global governance reform.

China’s peace-making diplomacy also came to the fore in the Ukraine conflict, where it was the first nation to table a peace plan all sides were ready to talk around, before it was torpedoed by nations not interested in peace.

China’s diplomatic leadership also came to the fore early in the Gaza conflict, as Beijing predicted -- within weeks after the October 7 attack on Israel -- that the war would start becoming regional if and when it overspilled into Syria and Lebanon.

During its recent chairmanship of the United Nations Security (UN) Council, China also hosted meetings of Foreign Ministers and undertook numerous strenuous tasks to encourage an end to the fighting and start of talks.

China opened 2024 with renewed confidence that Taiwan reunification will happen sooner than later and the island’s recent elections returned a hung parliament with short coat-tails, while the number of nations with ties with Taipei continues to decrease – and the new super aircraft carrier ‘Fujian’ is being ‘readied to defend China in any war over Taiwan’.

China has also opened the new year as the clear world leader in electric vehicle (EV) technology – and last month fired the world’s first satellite to test G-6 technology.

Meanwhile, as cities continue to crumble worldwide under the combined forces of Nature and accelerated Climate Change, scientists opened 2024 having just discovered why The Great Wall of China has remained preserved for over 2,000 years.

The naysayers will continue to propagate untruths, half-truths and ‘alternative truths’ about China, but historicity of its early decisions continue being revealed.

The World Health Organization (WHO) congratulated China in 2000 for having adopted its heavily-criticized ‘One Child’ policy in 1980; and today, its massive population has declined for a second consecutive year, while other nations try to grapple with uncontrollable population overgrowth.

Indeed, Chinese everywhere, including Taiwan, have every reason to feel confident they’ll see even their most-secret dreams of modernisation, globalisation and reunification realized, as they together enter the Year of the Dragon.

9

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Oil and Gas Facility Simulator commissioned to train Guyanese to work offshore

THE commissioning of the Facility Simulator (FacTor) that will be used to train Guyanese to work in the oil and gas industry on Friday, February 9 in Port Mourant, Berbice stands as a highly significant moment, surpassing the usual fanfare of a mere ribbon-cutting ceremony. Beyond the symbolic ceremony lies an institution that not only meets a vital need but serves as a beacon for the evolving landscape of technical skills in Guyana, responding to the growing demands spurred by the vast opportunities within the oil and gas sector.

As Guyana unearthed the potential of its oil reserves in 2015 and commenced produc-

tion in 2019, concerns emerged about the deficit of a local workforce with the skills to support the industry.

This concern found its roots in the dual challenges of the novelty of the oil and gas industry and the absence of local training facilities.

The establishment of FacTor is the first phase of the Guyana Technical Training College Incorporated (GTTCI). This development signifies a concrete commitment from the Government of Guyana to ensure that Guyanese fully participate in and benefit from the lucrative opportunities presented by this evolving sector. It is also telling of the level of commitment from Stabroek Block co-venturers—Exx-

onMobil Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited—to the building of local capacity, since the training college is being established through their support, with the FacTor being designed and constructed

by SBM Offshore Guyana.

This facility operates as a simulator, offering students a dynamic and realistic experience of the challenges and operations that define life aboard the colossal oil and gas vessels. Under the guidance of seasoned industry professionals, students undergo hands-on training across various technical domains, eliminating the financial burden of seeking education overseas or the need to forfeit their dreams due to lack

of accessible training. FacTor, now accessible at no cost, symbolises a reciprocal commitment from oil and gas companies that derive immense benefits from Guyana's vast resources.

During the commissioning ceremony, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali emphasised the importance of collaboration and highlighted the continuing role of oil and gas companies in shaping the trajectory of the nation's burgeoning petroleum industry.

“We have carefully calculated what we want to achieve to ensure that quality infrastructure, quality human resource trainers, quality development partners, a quality government, a quality company. It is bringing quality

together to give us the output that we are celebrating today,” the President stated.

Located in Port Mourant, Region Six, the facility strategically aligns with key industrial areas, including the robust sectors of rice and sugar production.

Beyond this, its proximity to indigenous communities ensures that individuals from regions like Orealla/Siparuta in Region Six and Moraikobai in Region Five have seamless access to training, thereby addressing and bridging existing educational disparities.

As we look into the future, it becomes evident that Guyana's trajectory is imbued with promise, a testament to the concerted efforts ensuring that

Political shenanigans THE present opposition in Guyana is neither smart nor clever. It is not intelligent and it is far from being politically inspiring. It is basic and has developed a pattern of reinventing itself in the political sphere as well as birthing some of the most predictable and cunning political strategies to gain power and outright control.

R e c e n t l y, t h e A P NU+AFC, which is PNC-reincarnate, pulled one of the old tricks out of its political book. It thought that the PPP/C and ruling party could be crippled and paralyzed by a set of striking teachers who sadly were misled and misinformed. But half way into the strike, and the ruling administration is showing no signs of being bothered or surrendering. In fact, one thing that this incident is teaching the government is that it will have to find ways that it could go on in the education sector while teachers strike.

After all, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali has made it clear that this is a political strike, and teachers have to exercise “patience” as his government is working aggressively to remedy the situation with their salaries and

working conditions. He stated all the things the government has done since he took office in terms of salaries and working conditions for teachers as he pleaded with them for their understanding and patience.

But this will not stop APNU+AFC politicians from using the teachers, like Coretta McDonald is doing, to upset the environment and cause undue labour interruptions at this time. To McDonald and the APNU+AFC, this is the time to do so in the lead up to the polls next year.

Others will follow. APNU+AFC will make the other labour unions like the GPSU, GTUC strike or engage in labour interruptions while staying at a safe distance so their hands appear ‘clean’.

Another political stroke that the APNU+AFC will play from the PNC play book is trying to get Bharrat Jagdeo out of the race. This was already tried before the start of the last elections. They have done so as recent as Thursday by engaging in meaningless litigation against him to try and get him out of the political optics. They know that he is integral to PPP/C and any elections for the time being.

They also know that they

are bluffing their way because they know that it is up to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir and the rules which he will have to interrupt. Once that is the case, Jagdeo and the PPP/C will find a way out of this political mace, using the legality and the rules.

This same issue is a political diversion and an opposition shenanigan engineered

by APNU+AFC and the ‘old heads’ at Congress Place. It is designed to take the critical eye off of them while they try to organize the political campaign in the lead up to general elections.

Something does not feel right about this move to the courts to have Jagdeo removed from parliament and the cabinet. The APNU+AFC politicians are up to something and are hiding their hands. It could not be that ANUG is entering the parliament and being sure of their

support, the opposition is planning to table another ‘no confidence’ in the government. This would surely fail because the PPP/C still has the majority. Whatever trick the APNU+AFC has hidden, the PPP/C will be ready.

Also, the opposition will stir the pot, using certain gullible persons from within the PPP/C to weaken and cause trouble in the party base. They want Jagdeo out and some other gullible party faction in. And the PPP/C congress is just around the corner, the APNU+AFC is waiting for the opportunity to ‘strike’ because their aim is to weaken the party at any cost ahead of the polls.

Pretty soon, Aubrey Norton’s rhetoric will change back to the ‘Ole familiar’ dialect, that’s is if he is still at helm of opposition politics in this country.

Talk of violence and struggle will emerge once

more to get Guyanese that support APNU+AFC out protesting and picketing seemingly because of various issues which will highlight a purported lack of good governance, transparency and accountability. The political gurus are the opposition camp will use these events to fuel their campaigns against this PPP/C government.

Another political shenanigan will be the ‘race and discrimination’ card. They will seek out opportunities to utilise the Amerindians and Indians in their plot for power and control. More emphasis will be placed on spreading various negative narratives and perspectives around the hinterland and in Amerindian communities.

Additionally, do not rule out APNU+AFC politicians using racism openly to whip up political support.

They are desperate and at this point, sadly without a

its people are well-prepared to steward the vast resources of the country. GTTCI serves as a prologue to a cascade of transformative developments.

The University of Guyana already offers a spectrum of oil and gas courses, complemented by scholarships granted by various oil and gas companies operating in Guyana. With the Facility Simulator now fully operational, Guyana's human resource capacity is poised for unprecedented heights, aligning harmoniously with the nation's aspirations for sustained growth and prosperity.

meaningful political plan to execute in the lead up to general elections. They do not have a political head, just a temporary figure head in the person of Norton who seemingly is incompetent and intellectually bankrupt.

So, they will go back to the unions and the streets.

APNU+AFC will also pull shenanigans from their political play book which really is the PNC diary.

This body politics is becoming redundant. If the APNU+AFC does not change its gears soon, it will be left behind as Guyana further grows and becomes more developed. Political parties are transforming and changing daily their ideologies. If the PNC/R or APNU+AFC hopes to become the next government, it needs new life and new leadership that can adapt to the changing political environment. It can ill afford to stay the course of backwardness and political confusion.

Political shenanigans are not real politics. They are not a useful political tool. They are just a plaster. They will not work.

Go back to the drawing board and fix the problem from within the PNC/R or APNU+AFC grouping.

The PNC/R or APNU+AFC needs leadership and then, start to engage the government in real and genuine politics.

10

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Gov’t to improve treated water access in coastal, hinterland regions

THIRTEEN large water treatment plants are expected to be completed this year, seven of which have already been awarded and are under construction, with the remaining six to be tendered.

This was revealed by Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues during an interview with the Guyana Dialogue on Thursday last.

Minister Rodrigues said the ministry has focused on three aspects of water treatment, one of them being access to water. With close to 100 per

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues

cent of Guyana’s coastal population having access to water, she noted that there are few without access on the coast and the hinterland.

“Over the last three

years, we’ve been able to give 35,000 residents first time access to water. The second thing that we’ve been focused on is the treated water programme.

So, we came in, we did an

assessment, we were about 52 per cent treated water coverage, and our strategic plan is to move that to 90 per cent coverage by 2025,” Minister Rodrigues said, adding that this is treated water coverage along the coast.

“We have five additional treatment plants that are being tendered right now, and as soon as that process is completed, those contracts will be awarded, and we will commence construction. These five are being funded by the Caribbean Development Bank.”

An additional water treatment plant will

be constructed at Hope, where the ministry is doing a pilot on the use of surface water to feed the water treatment plant.

She explained that this, along with the rehabilitation and extension of existing water treatment plants, and the upgrading water distribution and improved infrastructure, will all aid in the delivery of clean, safe drinking water to the coastal population, as well those residing in the hinterland.

The minister highlighted the need to focus on hinterland water.

“We have drilled 75 wells in the past three years,

significantly improving access to water in the hinterland. And this year we plan to drill 40 additional wells in the hinterland regions to give our Amerindian brothers and sisters access, and to ensure that their access to water improves to 100 per cent by 2025 as well. So, that’s our target for the hinterland.”

As a result of these efforts by the government through the Housing and Water Ministry, access to potable water in the hinterland regions has improved from 46 per cent in 2020, to 86 per cent to date.

Bids open to construct more schools in Region Nine THE provision to construct more educational facilities across the country continues to be of top priority for the government to ensure that accessibility to learning becomes easier for the nation’s children.

As such, the government, through the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Nine, has opened bids for the construction of several nursery schools in villages across the district.

These villages include Koneshen, Deep South Rupununi; Kwatamang, North Rupununi, Quarrie, and Moco Moco. According to the RDC, the construction of these nursery schools will each cost some $13.9 million.

The constant investments in new schools

nationwide reflect the government’s commitment to reducing classroom overcrowding and fostering spacious and conducive learning environments.

Meanwhile, bids have been opened for the construction of a duplex teacher’s quarters at the Apoteri Primary School, and according to the engineer’s estimate, the project will also cost $13.9 million.

The living quarter will see teachers who live far from the school occupying the space, free of cost. Moreover, students of the St Ignatius Female Dormitory will soon be dwelling in an improved environment, as bids were also opened for the rehabilitation of the dorms.

This project is slated to cost approximately $9 million.

Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NBC) procedures.

All bids must be accompanied by a valid certificate of compliance from the Manager of the National Insurance Scheme and Commissioner of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

Persons who wish to bid for these projects are expected to deposit their envelopes in the tender box at the Regional Tender Administration Board located in the compound of the RDC no later than February 26, 2024, which must be addressed to the chairman.

The bidding documents can be uplifted from the public works department which is also located in the R D C ’s c o m p o u n d .

(DPI)

11

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

‘Zero hunger by 2030’ is an ambitious target the region must achieve

MINISTER of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, emphasised that the region has made tremendous strides towards achieving the ambitious target of eliminating hunger by 2030.

Although the region is still lagging behind in human development and food insecurity remains as an issue, Minister Todd highlighted that the region can look at the value of its food production.

This, he added, requires a lot of work at the policy and regional levels to ensure that they can fill those gaps.

He made the remarks at the launch of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) 38th regional conference for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, on Wednesday.

This will provide a symmetry and level of focus that will allow the region to have the priorities that are necessary from a regional perspective.

“…But to do that, we have to do that using these mechanisms, these forums, these types of activities, where we bring in policymakers, institutions, private sector individuals together so that we can be on the same page…The time is now. We have to take the opportunities available to us and we have to make sure that we can bring real benefits to the people of Latin America and the Caribbean…,” Minister Todd further emphasised.

Agriculture, he added, has always been the driver of the economies in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The foreign affairs minister noted, “we are just expanding. And we have countries within the region that are well advanced. Of course, we have countries that are not so advanced, but if we bring everyone together, we can have a food system agenda that would be able to not only be a world-class agricultural production region, but at the same time, it is about ensur-

— Minister Todd says

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd

ing that there is no hunger…”

“If you look at the statistics, you will recognise that with 660 million people, we have to feed our people. If you look at the global stats, we account for about 14.5 per cent of the global output of agriculture. That is quite significant. Naturally, that creates employment, which is just above 40 per cent on

More settlements identified for housing reform in Region Five

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, engages Region Five residents

IN a bid to bolster homeownership and address the issue of squatting, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at facilitating land title acquisition and regularisation efforts in various communities across Guyana.

During a recent address, Minister Croal disclosed plans for an upcoming exercise focused on process-

ing Agreements of Sale for allottees of the Experiment Housing Scheme in Region Five.

This initiative aims to expedite the land title acquisition process, bringing allottees one step closer to realising their homeownership dreams.

Acknowledging the persistent challenge of squatting, Minister Croal outlined strategies to tackle this issue

effectively.

He highlighted efforts to regularise certain areas prone to squatting while emphasising the relocation of residents from zero-tolerance zones such as river dams.

Among the key developments mentioned by Minister Croal was the regularisation of 48 households at the Referendum squatting area, Continued on page 13

average, throughout Latin America and the Caribbean,” he added.

CARICOM has been working collectively to scale up production while implementing a model that works for every country.

Meanwhile, Guyana has made significant progress over the last three years in

bringing all of the CARICOM member states together and pooling their resources to effectively bolster the agricultural and food systems agenda.

In order to have the best agricultural food system in the region, Minister Todd highlighted that Latin America, the Caribbean and other organisations must further cooperate to align their goals and enhance the value chain system.

By doing so, the region will be able to reduce expenses, boost productivity, and discover new avenues for cooperation.

Given that large corporations have dominated the global agricultural market and formed multinational corporations, Minister Todd noted that it is critical to comprehend the region’s position in this sector.

Guyana, however, is not deficient in any regard since it has a comparative advantage and can scale up produc-

tion to become competitive and a global exporter.

As such, the agriculture sector has always been a revenue earner and Guyana continues to concentrate on various measures to have a robust agricultural food system locally and regionally.

Given that the food systems in Latin America and the Caribbean are similar, Minister Todd explained that Guyana is not here to distort the production cycle since the nation has been providing complementary means to improve its trade.

The Foreign Affairs Minister stressed: “Our trade portfolio…as it is right now, is about 70 per cent of the agricultural produce here, in Latin America and the Caribbean, flow intra-regionally. A lot of it is being exported. If we look at the global stats, we are still a net importer. So, we are doing quite well. But we still need to scale up.” (DPI)

12

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Health workers to be trained to properly retrieve evidence of sexual assault — as Canada delivers over 300 evidence-collection kits to Health Ministry, Guyana Police Force

A TOTAL of 300 Sexual Assault Evidence collection kits valued at $3.7 million were delivered to the Ministry of Health and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to increase justice for women in remote Amerindian communities, which are prone to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The SGBV cases are sometimes dismissed in the courts due to inadmissible evidence. However, these kits will ensure that evidence is properly collected, and perpetrators will face the full brunt of the law.

This donation is part of the Justice Education Society (JES) project funded

by Global Affairs Canada, “Strengthening Justice for Women, Girls and Indigenous People.”

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, and Commander of 4C, Se-

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony

nior Superintendent Khali Pareshram received the kits on Friday from JES Project Director and Country Representative, Lisa Thompson, and Head of Development Cooperation for Guyana in the High Commission of Canada, Adam Loyer.

During the simple ceremony at the ministry’s Brickdam office, Minister Anthony underscored the need for trained professionals to properly collect evidence to prevent SGBV cases from being dismissed.

Although the project is primarily for Regions One and Four, “We certainly would work with our professionals to make sure that they’re properly trained especially at our emergency rooms…We would also use the opportunity to train our healthcare staff in all our emergency rooms across the country,” he stated.

Dr Anthony highlighted several partnerships with Canada that are ongoing targetting specific groups such as mental health and children, among others.

“We’re grateful for this type of collaboration and cooperation with Canada and I think what we’re witnessing here is another such gesture where Canada has chosen an area that is of extreme importance to

Head of Development Cooperation for Guyana in the High Commission of Canada, Adam Loyer

us,” he emphasised.

Additionally, Commander Pareshram thanked the JES and the High Commission of Guyana for continuously partnering and supporting the improvement of the services offered by the police force.

“We are very thankful for this donation today because technology is one of the main aspects of solving crime; that is the way the world is moving…We are very thankful for this timely donation…This is a vast support to us,” the commander expressed.

Meanwhile, Thompson noted that health professionals will receive training on how to effectively use the evidence collection kits as part of the programme.

Accordingly, Loyer, in brief remarks, said the gesture demonstrates the Canadian government’s commitment to combatting sexual and gender-based violence.

The Justice Education Society of British Columbia is implementing a four-year programme to deliver greater equality in access to justice for women and girls who have experienced SGBV including those who live in remote communities in Regions One and Four.

13

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

EU looking to further enhance trade relations with Guyana — next mission of potential investors expected here later this year

By Naomi Parris

THE European Union (EU) is increasing its engagement with Guyana, particularly in food security, value-added forestry initiatives, and health sector development.

During an interview with local journalists, EU’s Ambassador to Guyana, Rene Van Nes, disclosed that through the Global Gateway initiative, the EU is expanding its traditional mechanism of offering loans and grants, supporting more trade and enhancing connectivity within the Caribbean region.

“There is much more awareness in the EU about what is happening in Guyana.

It's an interest for the (Caribbean Community) CARICOM as a whole. I think we see a real interest of the European Union in CARICOM, in the different CARICOM countries and you see many more exchanges between them,” the ambassador said.

Last November, the EU held its first trade mission in Guyana. Representatives from the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Italy, Austria, Sweden, Ireland and France were a part of the trade mission.

“Looking back for the EU 2023 was a big year, we had the highest number of high level visitors that we've ever had in the history of 52 years,” the ambassador said.

He related that the EU will be advancing its support for forestry with a focus on pushing more value added initiatives. “[If] we bring in companies from Europe, in say the furniture making sector… we would like to have more companies that actually create value added from the products that you get from the forest including timber, and maybe have European companies that make furniture that come here and create joint ventures,” Van Nes said.

He said that furniture from Guyana’s timber is a high demand product; however, most buyers do not source the product directly from Guyana.

Meanwhile, the EU will assist Guyana and Barbados to establish the regulation needed to manufacture pharmaceuticals.

“After COVID the realisation was very clear that yes, you can help these countries by giving them the vaccines, but it’s even better to help them with setting up their own production facility so

that they can make their own vaccines,” the EU Ambassador said.

In 2023, the EU increased its support for vaccine production in Rwanda. The EU partnered with the Central African state to strengthen the local ecosystem for vaccines and medicines manufacturing and health resilience which saw the opening of the first BioNTech Africa manufacturing site in Kigali, Rwanda.

It was later reported that Guyana, Barbados and Rwanda were examining a procurement mechanism to manufacture vaccines in the Caribbean.

Also, with major emphasis being placed on food security within CARICOM, agriculture will also be an areas of focus.

The ambassador disclosed that a second trade mission will be here in November “and for that mission, we have the ambition to have more companies from the agricultural sector.”

Last year’s mission saw

More settlements identified for housing reform in Region...

From page 11 accompanied by planned infrastructure improvements.

Additionally, progress is underway for the regularisation of 26 households at Shieldstown/Blairmont and several households at Bush Lot. Furthermore, 16 households at the Blairmont river dam reserve are slated for relocation to the Balthyock Housing Scheme.

Speaking on Budget 2024, Minister Croal underscored its focus on human resource development, emphasising initiatives aimed at

enhancing access to housing, education, social welfare, job creation, and infrastructure development. He assured residents that their concerns, voiced during the meeting, would be addressed in the coming weeks as part of ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and promote inclusive growth.

In a related development, the Housing Ministry, as reported by the National Communications Network, is intensifying efforts to tackle squatting in specific areas across the country. Since assuming office in 2020,

the government, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority, has identified 21 informal settlements in various regions. Encouragingly, more than 10 of these areas have already been regularised, with officials actively working to regulate the remaining settlements.

These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to addressing housing challenges, fostering sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life for all Guyanese citizens.

EU’s Ambassador to Guyana, Rene Van Nes

some 23 companies from 10 EU member states ranging from various industries.

Guyana’s export value

to the European Union from January 2017 to September 2023 was some US$7.9 billion, which reflects a steady

growth. Trade between the EU and Guyana for that same period amounted to some US$11 billion.

14

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Oil trade between Guyana, India reached ‘all-time’ high of US$149M

THE trade of hydrocarbon between Guyana and India increased dramatically between 2021 and 2022, hitting an “all-time high” of US$149 million, according to Hardeep Singh Puri, India's Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, he mentioned that this is because Indian refiners have begun sourcing crude oil from Guyana.

Puri said he talked about "ways to build on this to further expand and cement our ties to cover other aspects of the energy sector including power plants, infrastructure, and capacity building" with the Minister of Natural Resources of Guyana, Vickram Bharrat.

Puri said that he and minister Bharrat had very fruitful talks about how India will be the oil demand centre in the ensuing decades, accounting for roughly 25 per cent of the

— between 2021 and 2022 growth in global energy demand between 2020 and 2040.

They also talked about the great chances for cooperation between the two nations that such will bring.

On Tuesday, a delegation from Guyana, led by Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Minister Bharrat, arrived in India on a weeklong visit intended to enhance the two nations' mul-

tifaceted relationship.

Thus far, they have met with India’s President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

“Bharrat also said Indian companies are interested in picking up stakes in Guyana’s exploration acreage through negotiation rather than a bidding process. Indian companies did not participate in Guyana’s latest oil and gas bidding round,” said the Deccan Herrald.

Additionally, it quoted

Three floating production storage and offloading (FPSOs) vessels are deployed in this block.

Over 600,000 barrels per day (b/d) are presently produced from the Stabroek Block projects, exceeding the operator's estimates.

Building on the discussions during President Dr

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, with Hardeep Singh Puri, India's Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas

INDIA WANTS IN The Deccan Herrald, an Indian daily newspaper, reported recently that Minister Bharrat said that India wants to sign a multi-year oil purchase deal with Guyana and acquire stakes in the South American nation’s exploration areas.

That newspaper reported Minister Bharrat as saying that Guyana will make a decision on the oil purchase deal “at some point in time”.

The Deccan Herrald said that Minister Bharrat said that the cabinet of Guyana would need to approve any such agreement with India.

According to the newspaper, India, the third-largest importer, and consumer of oil worldwide, wants to diversify its supplies of crude oil.

It stated that Guyana and India had inked a fiveyear memorandum of understanding (MoU) earlier this month to cooperate on energy.

Minister Bharrat as saying: "Our preference (for offering oil blocks for exploration) will be through bidding, and if there is any interest in any particular block, we are willing to negotiate and enter an agreement.”

As it relates to India acquiring stakes in the prolific Stabroek Block, Minister Bharrat told the publication that Guyana was willing to offer stakes through negotiation only in relinquished areas. According to the publication, Minister Bharrat stated, "We have some relinquished acreage from Stabroek and other blocks so simply that means possibly we will have a bidding round possibly later this year."

ExxonMobil (Guyana) Limited operates the Stabroek Block and holds 45 per cent interest.

Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest.

Irfaan Ali and Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo’s visit to India in January and February 2023, both countries have taken concrete steps by establishing eight Joint Working Groups.

These groups encompass a wide array of domains including agriculture, health, infrastructure development, energy, Ayurveda, technology innovation, defence, and human resources and capacity building. This holistic approach aims to fortify cooperation and leverage each nation’s strengths for mutual gain.

A pivotal aspect of the partnership is Guyana’s expressed interest in procuring defence capabilities from India. This initiative stems from Guyana’s imperative to safeguard its maritime boundaries, exclusive economic zones, and burgeoning oil and gas industry from potential threats, notably illegal fishing activities. India and Guyana have had diplomatic ties since 1965.

Silica City’s draft master plan to be soon available

15

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

THE master plan draft for Silica City, Guyana’s inaugural modern and sustainable city project, is expected to be available by mid-2024.

This was disclosed by Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues during last Thursday’s edition of the Guyana Dialogue. Silica City will be established along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. The project aims to address the impacts of climate change and sea level rise, as well as the issues associated with the growth of non-coastal urban settlements.

“You would have seen last year that there was a delegation here from the University of Miami, and we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Miami for them to deploy all of their exports in architecture and design so that they can do the master plan for silica city…In six months they have to get back to us on a draft…About mid this year, we should have a draft of this master plan,” Minister Rodrigues posited.

The project has set aside some 3,800 acres of land, and work on the infrastructure is already underway. This includes creating 100 residential homes in addition to shopping centres, apartment complexes, condos, hotels, restaurants, and other facilities.

In the first phase, Guyana is seeking to develop approx-

noted that the government continues to execute its mandate to provide affordable and sustainable housing solutions to Guyanese. So far, over 30,000 house lots have been allocated to Guyanese throughout the country. Of this amount, 45 per cent or 13,834 of the beneficiaries are single women.

Some 54 per cent of the total allocation went to young people between the ages of 21 to 35. Meanwhile, 92 per cent

Silica City along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway

imately 10,000 acres of land.

“We want to do this properly. We want to deploy the use of experts and people who have done this in other countries like Latin America, Europe, and around the world…So that it can achieve all of the objectives that we would like to achieve,” the minister added.

She emphasised that access to the new city will be easy, as Guyana is already constructing a highway from Mandela to Eccles to provide enhanced access for persons to traverse.

“This highway will go all the way to Timehri and will give people access to the Lin-

den/Soesdyke Highway…It is very accessible. There is a road built there already to take you to Silica City,” Minister Rodrigues stated.

With its potential to become the nation’s most sought-after location for contemporary, environmentally eco-friendly living, Silica City is a significant advancement in Guyana’s developmental approach towards a sustainable and climate-smart future.

In addition to green areas and other facilities, the stateof-the-art development will include smart homes outfitted with the newest energy-saving technologies. In February

Young labourer dies after falling from scaffold at worksite

TWENTY-six-year-old Domindra Narayan of Columbia, Region Two has succumbed to his injuries a month after he fell from a 10-feet metal scaffold, while pressure-washing a business place at Affiance, Region Two. The incident occurred on January 9, 2024 and he succumbed to his injuries on February 9. It happened around 12:45 hrs at his worksite after which he was picked up by employees of the company and taken to the Suddie Public Hospital.

He was admitted and subsequently discharged, however, relatives related that he continued to experience immense pain in his head.

H i s m o t h e r, N e e l a m Narayan, told this newspaper that after he was complaining about the severe pain, she took him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Domindra Narayan

She said that she even enrolled him into a clinic where he was receiving treatment.

“I really tried with my son; he working five years now for the company; he is an honest person and he has been supporting us in the home here,” the mother said.

She said despite having financial constraints, she had to

foot all of her son’s medical bills.

She explained that her son suffered a fractured skull and was bleeding in his head. Before his death, he displayed signs of memory loss.

The mother said that her son’s death is a huge blow to the family since he was the sole breadwinner. She said that the Ministry of Labour launched an investigation into the industrial incident. They have not received any other follow-up into the investigation.

Relatives are currently preparing for the funeral. The employer has since reached out concerning funeral arrangements. Domindra was the eldest child for his parents.

He worked as a labourer with the popular business establishment.

2023, some $2.1 billion worth of contracts were signed to expedite these efforts.

Minister Rodrigues also

of the allocation went to low, moderate, and middle-income earners.

“The objective was to give low-income earners access to affordable housing.

We have stayed true to that ideology…The 30,000 is just a number. When you break it down and look at the impact that the housing programme has had on the lives of all of these people, you really appreciate the bigger picture,” she stressed. (DPI)

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Guyana on its way to achieving 2,000 hotel rooms by 2025

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

The new Aiden Hotel under construction

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond on Friday inspected ongoing works of the new Aiden Hotel located at Robb and Oronoque Streets

GUYANA is well on its way to achieving 2,000 hotel rooms by 2025 to accommodate the vast influx of visitors the nation has been witnessing in recent days.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond on Friday inspected ongoing works of the new Aiden Hotel located at Robb and Oronoque streets in the capital city.

The boutique-style edifice is among other branded hotels that will be opened in Guyana to complement the growing hospitality sector.

Minister Walrond stated that she is optimistic that the project will be completed in time.

“The contractors have assured us that by May, this

project will be completed.

As you know, in June, we have the international cricket finals then we have CPL right after. We are optimistic that we will have rooms for our visitors as they come for these events,” she explained.

Guyana will also see persons coming in for its annual energy conference, Mashramani festivities, Rupununi Rodeo, Berbice expo, building expo, and the agriculture expo, among other events.

The country recorded the highest levels of arrivals last year when compared to the arrivals recorded in 2019, with a record-breaking total of 319,056. This stands as the nation’s highest-recorded number of visitors to date, a

clear testimony to the growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Minister Walrond highlighted that the government had anticipated an exponential rise in visitors to Guyana, following its resumption to office in 2020.

“We have seen the realisation of that and that is why we sent out an expression of interest in 2020.

These projects take a long time to add additional rooms and we are well on our way for those rooms to be realised for our guests to have internationally branded standard hotels that they are accustomed to,” the tourism minister pointed out. (DPI)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

GRA could get new building to improve operations

TO further enhance efficiency, the government is exploring the option of constructing a new headquarters for the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

According to Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, this effort is more likely to be facilitated in 2025. Dr Jagdeo was at the time responding to questions posed by media operatives at a press conference at Office of the President on Thursday last.

He recognised the critical role that GRA plays, and added that based on the country’s

development trajectory, a new building for more streamlined and organised services may be necessary.

The senior government official recalled that GRA was previously located at Lamaha Street, before settling at Camp Street, and pointed out that the agency has fared better than others in maintaining its facilities.

“At that time, Camp Street building was a powerful new building.

Now it’s based on the new standards that’s being developed. So, eventually they would have

to get a new building for GRA,” the VP explained.

He highlighted several potential locations for the new building, saying, “Most likely the buildings would be along either the corridor going from Georgetown to Eccles, the new road, or on the new highway, the new highway that’s going from Ogle to the bridge. But the government has land there so once they decide on the project, it will go on one of these places.”

Critical improvements are already underway across government

GRA building on Camp Street, Georgetown

offices, bringing upgraded infrastructure and improved operations.

The 2024 budget has allocated funds for the construction of high-rise complexes to consolidate government ministries and agencies for

improved accessibility and efficacy.

This complex will feature four towers, 12 stories high with the capacity to accommodate 6,000 staff and other amenities. The Ministry of Public Works will be

the first to benefit from this new space, as the ministry is operating out of several offices due to lack of space.

In 2023, 25 government buildings were repaired, while two were renovated. (DPI)

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Lady Jags enter camp for Dominican Republic clash

G U YA N A’ S S e n i o r Wo m e n ' s N a t i o n al Team Head Coach Omar Khan is confident in his selection of a spirited and youthful 23-member squad for the February 17 mustwin Concacaf Women's Gold Cup Preliminary clash against The Dominican Republic in the

United States.

The high-stakes elimination showdown will take place at the Dignity Health Sports Park Track and Field Stadium in Los Angeles.

A victory would propel the Lady Jags to the group stage of the inaugural Concacaf W Gold Cup. “We have a young team. It’s a great team to work with, a lot of enthusiastic ladies who give everything,” Khan shared in an interview on February 10.

Adjustments have been made to the lineup that achieved a commanding 5-0 victory against Dominica in the Concacaf Women's Road To Gold Cup last November.

Khan has introduced a new player, midfielder Hope Windebank, and brought back four players as part of his strategy for the upcoming elimination match. The returning players are defenders Sydney Cummings and

Heike Clarke, along with forwards Jenea Knight and Lakeisha Pearson.

Goalkeepers: Chante’ Sandiford, Raven Edwards- Dowdall and Aneesa O’Brien Defenders: Anya Tribune, Anika Sproxton, Kristen Bettencourt, Rylee Traicoff, Sydney Cummings and Heike Clarke Midfielders: Stefanie Kouzas, Brianne Desa, Jalade Trim, Hope Windebank, Hannah Baptiste, Sandra Johnson and Samantha Banfield.

Forwards: Otesha Charles, Shanice Alfred, Annalisa Vincent, Jenea Knight, Lakeisha Pearson, Neema Liverpool and Dylana Makarowski.

The Head Coach explained that the Lady Jags have maintained their fitness over the past few weeks through a virtual fitness plan in preparation for the five-day encampment set to start on Monday, February 11 in Los Angeles.

In the upcoming week, training will focus on refining and honing every aspect of their game from “attacking, defending, transitions, set pieces, strength (and) conditioning,” according to the head coach.

“The main thing is to get a good team on the pitch. Good team building. I think the biggest aim for success will be getting a team that’s prepared; know what they have to do in every part of the game, when we have the ball, when we don't have the ball. Those are the key elements.”

But it won't be a straightforward task against The Dominican Republic, a team known for its robust defence. The upcoming match will be a formidable challenge, as the opponents are equally resolute in their determination to progress to the next round.

The Group Stage will feature twelve (12) nation-

al teams between February 20 to 28 across several venues - Dignity Health Sports Park, Snapdragon Stadium, and Shell Energy Stadium - all located in the United States.

After the round-robin phase, group winners, runners-up, and the two most successful third-place finishers will secure spots in the quarterfinals.

S u b s e q u e n t l y, t h e semifinals and the final are set to take place at the Snapdragon Stadium on March 6 and 10, respectively.

Khan added that advancing to the group stage would be a "real boost to this team to keep going" and an excellent promotion for women's football in Guyana.

GFF President Wayne Forde said the chosen squad possesses the skills to overcome The Dominican Republic and urged all Guyanese, both domestically and internationally, to unite

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 11, 2024

Hosting duties amplified for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 - Deputy Commissioner Budhram, Dr Jagnarain attend summit in Trinidad

(Second from left) Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ (ag.), Ravindradat Budhram, alongside Dr Sawan Jagnarain flanked by other regional representatives at the Security, Safety, and Medical Summit held in Trinidad

AS anticipation mounts for the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, hosted jointly by the West Indies and the USA from June 1 to June 29, 2024, preparations are in full swing to ensure a seamless and successful tournament.

With a total of 20 teams competing in 55 games across seven countries, the cricketing extravaganza promises to captivate audiences worldwide.

Guyana, one of the host nations, is gearing up to play a pivotal role, is set to host six games that will be watched by cricket enthusiasts globally.

Recognising the significance of this opportunity, Deputy Commissioner 'Operations' (ag.), Ravindradat Budhram, alongside Dr. Sawan Jagnarain, recently

participated in the Security, Safety, and Medical Summit held in Trinidad.

The summit saw representatives from the local Organising Committees of the participating countries coming together to address critical aspects that are essential for the smooth execution of the event. Presentations were delivered across various domains, including Security and Safety, Medical Support, Operations and Logistics, Ticketing and Accreditation, Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Anti-Corruption, Regional Security System (RSS), and CARICOM Impacs.

Reflecting on the significance of hosting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Deputy Commissioner Budhram emphasised its global appeal and the opportunity it presents for showcasing the region's capabilities in organ-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday February 11, 2024) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kacy Carty-88 (Melbourne) (2) Steve Smith-79*(Melbourne) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who claimed most wickets for the WI in the just-concluded ODI series versus AUST? (2) Who bagged most wickets for AUST in the recent ODI series against the WI? Answers in tomorrow’s issue ……………………………………………

ising major sporting events.

He underscored Guyana's substantial responsibility in ensuring the successful execution of the games, spanning security, logistics, medical support, ticketing, and accreditation.

The conference served as a platform for enhanced networking, integration and collaboration among the host nations and with the ICC laying the groundwork for a coordinated approach towards hosting cricket in the Caribbean. Deputy Commissioner Budhram highlighted the importance of aligning strategies, sharing best practices, and fostering regional cooperation to overcome challenges collectively.

Furthermore, Budhram emphasised the critical role of information- sharing and safety-planning mechanisms developed during the conference in mitigating risks associated with hosting such a high-profile event. Regular meetings are planned to monitor progress, address emerging issues, and refine strategies, ensuring the smooth and successful execution of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

As preparations intensify and stakeholders unite in their efforts, the stage is set for a memorable and thrilling tournament that will not only showcase the cricketing prowess of the participating teams, but also highlight the organisational prowess of the host nations, particularly Guyana, on the global stage.

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Kabisa signs Shamar Joseph as Brand Ambassador THROUGH its Kabisa energy drink brand, Prince King Distributors has signed Guyana and West Indies fast-bowler Shamar Joseph as their Brand Ambassador.

In a statement on their Facebook page, Kabisa. gy stated, “We are looking forward to growing this partnership.”

Joseph made his West Indies debut in the drawn series against Australia, dismissing Steven Smith with his first ball in Test cricket in a match West Indies lost in Adelaide.

He then became a

worldwide phenomenon when he took a seven-wicket haul in the final innings despite an injured foot to give West Indies a dramatic eightrun win at the Gabba in the second Test.

It was West Indies’ first Test win in Australia since 1997.

More so, the 24-yearold has joined Lucknow Super Giants to replace England quick Mark Wood. He will join Super Giants for INR 3 crore, an IPL statement on Saturday said.

INR 3 core is approximately US$361,381

CMC – Fast bowling sensation Shamar Joseph is set to feature in the money-spinning Indian Premier League, after signing a US$362 000 deal with Lucknow Super Giants.

The 24-year-old will replace England speedster

Mark Wood who media reports said has been recalled by the England and Wales Cricket Board, to prepare for upcoming assignments.

At Super Giants, Joseph will join fellow West Indies player Kyle Mayers, and will be part of a fast

Guyana and West Indies fast-bowler Shamar Joseph is now a Brand Ambassador for Kabisa

which is equivalent to approximately G$72,276,200.

Dubai Capitals had signed Joseph for the ongoing ILT20 sea son before West Indies toured Australia but he was subsequently ruled out because of the toe injury he suffered in the Brisbane Test when a Mitchell Starc yorker struck him.

But his performance in Australia has since landed him a deal with Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL, which starts on February 17.

Joseph to play for LSG in IPL 2024 bowling contingent that includes Afghan Naveenul-Haq and Englishman David Willey.

Super Giants were good enough to make the playoffs of last season’s IPL, before being knocked out by Mumbai Indians.

The Twenty20 fran-

chise deal is the second to emerge for Joseph after he was signed by Darren Sammy’s Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League which bowls off later this month.

Joseph burst to prominence on the recent drawn two-Test tour of Australia

when he produced an astonishing Man-of-the-Series performance to earn West Indies their first Test win Down Under in nearly three decades.

The right-armer snatched a five-wicket haul on debut in Adelaide as West Indies went down

by 10 wickets, and returned with figures of seven for 68 in the second innings in Brisbane, to bowl West Indies to a sensational eight-run victory on the fourth day.

Joseph finished the series with 13 wickets at 17 runs apiece.

AAG host successful Academy Championships meet

Over 150 youths from Corentyne to Linden and in between turnedout to match their skills in track and field as the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) on Saturday held their first Academy Championship Meet.

The champion boy and girl was The youths ranged from ages 6-12 and competed in a variety of in track and field events.

Vice president of AAG Naill Stanton told Chronicle Sport that it was a resounding success.

Stanton believes based on what he has seen, within next 10-15 years Guy-

Part of the action at the AAG’s academy Championship

ana will see its younger athletes excelling at CARFITA and also doing well at the Olympics.

According to Stanton, youth programs like this are the best way to start

preparing the young athletes and keep them away from unwanted distractions in their communities.

He also encouraged parents to have their children involved in sports as

its provide countless benefits to student athletes.

Children joining the academy are not required to pay any fees.

Meantime, Vice chairman of the National

Sport Commission Cristy Campbell praised the AAG stewardship of the academy.

She said athletes from ‘seven different districts including Linden, East Bank Demerara, North, east and South Georgetown, East Coast Demerara, and Berbice have to be nurtured’.

She encouraged the AAG to ‘guide these young athletes along the right path to transition to elite athletes.”

The sport administrator said the NSC, Ministry and government remains committed to the sustenance of these academies.

Director of sport Steve

Ninvalle thanked the AAG for ensuring the ‘academy is steered in the direction that aligns with the goals and objectives of the National Sports Commission’.

He added that ‘the number of regions being represented underlines a very important fact that organized athletic training by experienced and certified coaches is being decentralized’.

The Athletic academy is one of 10 created and funded by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

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GCA’s Pepsi first-division 50-over cricket

Angel’s 93 spurs GDF to 55-run win over MYO

By Sean Devers

ON a sun-kissed day at the GDF ground at Camp Ayanganna, Shamal Angel brought out his heavy artillery slamming six fours and nine sixes in an explosive 62-ball 93 as the soldiers beat MYO by 55 runs in their latest GCA Pepsi first-division 50-over encounter yesterday.

Angel, who fell seven short of joining Zameer Nazeem (the only GDF batter to score a century in this tournament) played an

array of scintillating shots and was virtually a oneman army.

Former national U-19 pacer Joshua Jones, who scored 18 with two sixes and Keith Simpson, who hit three boundaries in a shot-filled 15 were the only other batters who reached double figures as the GDF were bowled out for 179 in 33.1 on a flat track and fast outfield.

Salim Khan, who trapped Angel LBW at 125-5, orchestrated a middle-order slump and grabbed 4-49 as GDF

slipped from 81-2 when Leon Andrews (4) was bowled by Marlon Bole, to 149-9.

Suresh Dhanai and Joshua Harrichand grabbed two quick wickets each before Jones, a national track athlete, batting at number nine added 30 runs in a frustrating last-wicket stand with Delshawn McDonald (8).

Jones was bowled by Harrichand.

MYO, batting in West Indian-like fashion by trying to hit just boundaries, were dismissed for 124 in

30.3 overs.

Dhanai reached the boundary three times and cleared it on four occasions from the 32 balls he faced, but fell five short of his 50.

Opener Andrew Lyght Jnr clobbered one four and two sixes in 16 but failed to carry on, while Keon Roberts’ 18 included three boundaries of which two of them were huge sixes, but he too never built on a start.

Nazeem had 3-20 while he got support from Andrews (2-49) and Damion Waldron (2-18)

Shamal Angel fell seven short of a welldeserved century as the GDF beat MYO

‘Mash’ ‘streetball’ tournament winners to pocket $500,000 THE winners of the upcoming Mashram a n i S t re e t F o o t ball Competition will pocket $500,000 dollars for their efforts when the tournament gets going on February 18 at the National Park.

Big-name teams such as Sparta Boss, Gold is Money, Bent Street and Sophia have all confirmed their names for the tournament.

According to organiser Edison Jefford, participating teams will be locked in battle for over $1million dollars

L-R: Orange Dainty of TechPro, Denita Prowell of Ansa McAl, organiser Edison Jefford and MVP Sports’ Selvin Apple at the launch of the ‘Mash’ Cup Street Football tournament (Delano Williams photo)

in prize money at the one-night event with the winners walking away with $500, 000, while second, third and fourth-placed teams will walk away with $250,000, $150,000 and $100,000 respectively.

Aside from the usual streetball teams, Stabroek Ballers, Team Cruel, Five O, Family and North-East La Penitence have also been shortlisted in the competition.

Present at the launch was Denita Powell of Ansa McAl representing the Magnum Tonic Wine brand.

She stated that the company is proud of being involved in the ‘Mash’ Cup which is in its sixth edition. “New talent can be unearthed, but talent doesn’t pay the bills, so we understand the importance of pushing finance behind the talent,” Prowell stated.

On tournament night, games will start at 18:30hrs sharp and Jefford stressed the need for teams punctuality, stating; “If you’re not there when the game is blown, you will cede a walkover.”

Sheffield Powerlifting Championships…

‘Showstopper’ powers to 7th place with elite performance

GUYANESE Carlos Petterson-Griffith put in personal-best showings to finish seventh at elite Sheffield Powerlifting Championships in Sheffield, England.

Petterson-Griffith was on a mission to announce himself to the world when he competed against the crème

de le crème on Saturday.

He did just that when he came up against a worldclass stage of athletes featuring six multiple-time world champions and the very best from France, Japan, Sweden, New Zealand Great Brittan, Ukraine and the United States of America

Competing in his 93 kg weight category, Petterson was stacked against the likes of two-time former world champion Jonathan Cayco and Junior former world champion Gavin Adin of the USA, as well as two-time champion and Sweeden’s Gustav Hedlund.

First up was the squat; Carlos set about erasing the world record set by USA’s Adin and delivered with a 332kg squat.

However, Adin came back stronger to reclaim his record.

Carlos got into the championship as a rank outsider

and underdog after a silver medal in the 93kg at his debut at the international powerlifting world championship last year, but finished strong after a bench press of 182.5 kg and deadlift of 360kg to finish with a total of 875kg for seventh place out of 12.

Sweden’s Gustav Hed-

lund upset a strong field to capture the overall gold medal, with American Jonathan Cayco second and USA Delaney Wallace third for bronze, with American Adin fourth and Frenchman Panagiotis Tarinidis fifth.

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Lady Jags enter camp for Dominican Republic clash

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The Lady Jaguars will prepare to face The Dominican Republic on February 17

Sheffield Powerlifting Championships…

West Indies Championship Harpy Eagles vs Red Force

‘Showstopper’ powers to 7th place with elite performance SEE PAGE

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Carlos ‘showstopper’ Petterson-Griffith

No result after third consecutive day rained out

CMC – No play was possible for the third straight day in the firstround match in the West Indies Championship between title-holders Guyana Harpy Eagles and Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at Conaree Sports Club on Saturday.

An impaired outfield, resulting from rain,

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once again scuppered any chances of play, the game ending in a no-result.

Red Force had reached 215 for four in their first innings after winning the toss and choosing to bat, Jason Mohammed finishing unbeaten on exactly 100 – his 12th firstclass hundred.

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