Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 11-11-2023

SATURDAY 11th November, 2023

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 107261

Guyana pursuing robust maritime transportation model

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Local suppliers could access over US$1B in business by 2027 - as operations ramp up in oil-and-gas sector

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Residents of the “West Side” enjoyed a spectacular display of the Hindu religion, during the annual Diwali motorcade at the Ocean View Mandir compound, Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara (Latchman Singh photos)

Guyana’s energy Over 5,000 persons Canadian senator, vision gains to soon access parliamentarians set for international recognition lands at ECD SEE PAGE

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- PM Phillips affirms commitment to clean energy transition at OLADE’s 53rd ‘confab’

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- as over $12B in infrastructural works progress smoothly

official visit to Guyana

UG valedictorian: ‘Delay was certainly not denial’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Guyana’s energy vision gains international recognition - PM Phillips affirms commitment to clean energy transition at OLADE’s 53rd ‘confab’

PRIME MINISTER, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, discussed Guyana’s ambitious energy diversification plan which is designed to revolutionise the nation’s energy landscape, during his address at the 53rd Meeting of Ministers of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) this week.

The Prime Minister, who holds responsibility for the country’s energy sector, affirmed that “Guyana’s energy plan was in keeping with the objectives of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, which seeks to deliver greater economic and social development through economic transformation, under a low-carbon development path, while, at the same time, addressing the issues associated with climate change”.

He emphasised that the Government “is committed towards achieving a

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips during his address at the 53rd Meeting of Ministers of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) low carbon economy and advancing the transition to renewable energy development which will remain at the forefront of national priority”.

Additionally, he assert-

ed that renewable resources from the gas industry will play a crucial role in diversifying the nation’s economy to ensure energy, food, and climate security.

“We are advancing a

diversified energy supply matrix to cater for Guyana’s current energy needs and the rapid growth in demand anticipated in the medium and long term.”

The Prime Minister not-

ed that the matrix incorporates hydropower, natural gas, solar, and wind resources, adding 500 MW of new capacity for residential and commercial users. He said that the Government pledges to ensure “affordable, stable, and reliable energy” for all.

Among the key policies outlined were a 300 MW gas plant, national grid upgrade, Amaila Falls Hydroelectric project completion, and investments in solar and wind systems. He noted progress in reviving the 165 MW Amaila Falls Project with new proposals and funding from the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund for solar farms amounting to 33 MW under the GUYSOL programme.

The Prime Minister also shed light on the Government’s commitment to delivering clean, renewable power to hinterland regions, which includes 19 solar PV-powered mini-grids that will benefit 3,880 house-

holds and over 20,000 individuals. These mini-grids will contribute to essential social, healthcare, and education facilities, raising the nation’s overall installed solar capacity to more than 13 MW. A large-scale electrification project was also highlighted, which provides some 30,000 Solar PV Home Energy Systems for remote areas, with the aim of introducing renewable electricity to previously unserved homes, benefitting an estimated 136,863 individuals in 245 communities.

Moreover, he explained that Guyana remains committed to energy integration and co-operation initiatives with neighbouring states, pointing to the regional energy collaboration between Guyana, Suriname, Brazil, and French Guiana.

The five-day OLADE meeting (November 6-10), took place in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Local suppliers could access over US$1B in business by 2027

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

- as operations ramp up in oil-and-gas sector

GUYANESE are constantly being exposed to new opportunities with the expansion of the oil and gas sector, and crucial investments in other areas within the economy.

Earlier this year, ExxonMobil Guyana released new data on spending in the local economy and the employment figures for the oil and gas industry.

The company stated that combined spending amounted to G$83 billion (US$400 million) locally in 2022, with more than 1,500 Guyanese businesses, and over 5,000 Guyanese workers employed by the company and its contractors.

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, said that more is

in store for Guyanese as the industry expands and the government continues to invest in developmental initiatives.

During a press conference on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo said that with the expansion of the offshore industry and the government’s plans, local suppliers could access more than US$1 billion in business by 2027.

Local companies are better positioned to access such opportunities as a result of the Local Content Act. Dr. Jagdeo acknowledged that with the implementation of local content policies, many Guyanese businesses within the oil and gas sector have seen brighter prospects.

“We’re very pleased that we passed the law.

That law has created a lot of room for Guyanese and Guyanese investors,” he said.

He also pointed out that the Local Content Act was a commitment the PPP/C made when it was in opposition.

“It was a commitment we made when we were in opposition as one of the ways we can get more benefits that we can get outside of the revenue stream that was already affected because of the lack of ring-fencing and the low royalty,” the PPP General Secretary said.

On December 31, 2021, the Government of Guyana passed the Local Content Act 2021.

Subsequently, it published several related guidelines that were designed to maximise the

WITH the rapid development taking place on the eastern and western banks of the Demerara River, the government is pursuing a robust transportation model to ensure the improved movement of goods and services.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, while addressing private sector stakeholders at an event held recently at the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) headquarters, said that the government is pursuing a robust transportation model with the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

“I’m pushing the MARAD shipping association for us to move quickly in finding a model that is sustainable, and one that is cost effective,” Dr. Ali said.

The President, however, acknowledged that the draft and channel of the Demerara River must be fixed to accommodate large vessels for transporting goods.

“We have to now think seriously, although we know we have to do a new deep-water harbour. What should be the optimal channel for the Demerara River now, whether we go to a two-lane channel,

what depth, to what length of the river you want to put it,” President Ali said, adding: “Both sides of the river is developing rapidly. So these are the types of infrastructural necessities that confront the policy-making matrix that requires budgetary provision, and requires a full and long understanding of problems and what we want to achieve.”

He referenced the first commercial vessel that docked at the newly-constructed Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase.

Earlier this week, the Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase Inc. witnessed the arrival

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams Photo)

participation of Guyanese companies wherever they have the skills and capacity to get involved, beginning with services such as office space rental, janitorial services, laundry and catering services, pest control services, insurance

services, supply of food and accounting services and extending through long-term involvement in highly skilled subsectors like subsea installation, geophysical analysis and engineering.

Notably, the private sector is in discussion

with the government to add 35 more areas to the First Schedule of the Local Content Act, in addition to appealing for increases to the percentage of minimum local content required for respective sub-sectors.

for the 44-acre facility, which will primarily function as a shore base for Esso Exploration

and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) projects.

Guyana pursuing robust maritime transportation model and unloading of the inaugural commercial vessel at its shorebase facility.

According to a press release, the M.V. Virtuous Striker is the first commercial vessel to dock at the newly constructed man-made island. It is also registered as the longest vessel to ever enter the Demerara River Channel, at over 190 meters. Additionally, with a cargo of over 26,900 tonnes, it is also one of the largest payloads to ever be offloaded.

According to the Shorebase official, the docking and offloading of the vessel signify a significant achievement

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Region Two farmers to get adequate water supply - with full functional Dawa Pump Station

AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, assured farmers from Region Tw o ( P o m e ro o n - S u penaam) that despite somewhat unfavorable weather conditions over the past months, there will be adequate water to support their cultivation.

The minister made this disclosure while meeting with rice and cash crop farmers in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in Anna Regina.

Earlier that day, Minister Mustapha led a team to conduct an assessment at the Dawa Pump Station which is located in the Tapakuma Village.

This pump station is out-

fitted with four pumps and auxiliary engines and was designed to provide irrigation water from the Tapakuma River to supplement water in the Tapakuma Lake/Conservancy to irrigate rice lands along the Essequibo Coast from Somerset & Berks in the north to Zorg En Vlygt in the south.

Minister Mustapha explained that the current capacity of the pump station was 215,400 gallons per minute adding that within a week, the water level is expected to be at a satisfactory level for both rice and cash crop farmers. He also said that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will also be putting systems in place

to divert water resources from Good Hope to supplement what is being used for irrigation through the Dawa Pump Station.

During the meeting, Minister Mustapha said that although the ministry’s Hydromet Service has forecasted that some amount of rain is projected, the usual wet season rains are not expected and that systems are being put in place to ensure farmers, specifically rice farmers, have enough water as they prepare for the upcoming sowing season which is expected to run from mid-November to mid-December.

While farmers’ main concern was adequate water resources, issues about effective monitoring of irrigation structures were also raised. Minister Mustapha then called on the Regional Officials to engage rangers to ensure there is a heightened monitoring of these irri-

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha and other officials at the Dawa Pump Station gation structures.

Farmers were also allowed to raise suggestions on how to monitor the situation to ensure effective management of the resources and the system.

While some suggested a schedule detailing how water will be distributed within the cultivation areas, Minister Mustapha said that it would have to be something that all farmers agree on.

“We have a similar system in Black Bush

Polder in Region Six where we publish who will get water and when.

It is a system that is working for those farmers but you, the farmers, have to agree on it. We can look at it. I’ll ask the NDIA and the Regional Officials to work with you on that,” he said.

The minister also formed a committee comprising representatives from the two Water Users Associations (Annandale-Good Hope Water Users Association and the Charity – Zorg-en-Vlygt Water User’s Associa-

tion), the NDIA, the Regional Officials, and the security forces to monitor the water situation and structures to ensure the system runs effectively.

Minister Mustapha was accompanied by MoA’s Director General, Madanlall Ramraj; Chairman of the NDIA, Lionel Wordsworth; GRDB’s Deputy General Manager, Kuldip Ragnauth; GLDA’s CEO (ag), Dr. Dwight Wa l d r o n ; N A R E I ’s CEO, Jagnarine Singh, and other staff of the ministry.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

APNU’s developmental plan filled with slogans - says Dr. Jagdeo about its development strategy, track record in office

THE Opposition’s claim of creating a development strategy for Guyana to take it forward is contradicted by its paper trail that shows otherwise, says General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

Last weekend, the People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R), through a press statement, made a bold claim that it can guarantee a livable income for all households through certain policies such as job creation.

After looking at their outlined plan, Dr. Jagdeo said: “…I don’t want to be harsh, but really, it’s just a set of slogans put together in five areas.

This can’t be a development strategy.”

Highlighting their track record in office and their inability to plan for a sustainable future, the PPP General Secretary said that the Opposition,

in their press statement, displayed their nature of “eating everything out” before investing in the future when they touched on the point of maximising oil and gas revenues.

Speaking more on the plan, he said: “Any first year UG student could come up with a more detailed vision than this one here. And it’s a rehash of some of the things.”

Dr. Jagdeo had previously pointed out that the PNC-R’s plans are usually “disjointed” and are not compatible with the modern economic framework.

Unlike the Opposition, he said that his government’s plan is based on realism and grounded in thorough analysis.

VISION On the subject of job creation, in 2017, the former APNU+AFC Coalition Government had announced the closure of several sugar estates across the country, leav-

ing thousands of persons without jobs or sources of income. The move saw four sugar estates being closed and over 7,000 sugar workers losing their jobs.

However, with Guyana’s economy back on its feet and citizens being able to embrace its abundant benefits, the Vice President had announced since assuming office in 2020, more than 50,000 people have become employed under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government.

Notably, President Ali has continuously expressed a clear vision for a sustainable, competitive, and advanced Guyana by 2030. He has outlined plans for a diverse economic profile, investments in healthcare, infrastructure, and tourism, as well as positioning Guyana as a hub for energy and logistics in the region.

General Secretary of the PPP, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo Additionally, since the PPP/C assumed office, tax reforms have formed part of the government’s wider agenda to improve the quality of life in Guyana and address immediate economic challenges that affect Guyanese.

These include the removal of VAT from water, electricity, building and construction materials, basic food items and

household necessities, which the previous APNU+AFC government had burdened the Guyanese populace with.

Dr. Jagdeo, during a recent press conference, had proudly remarked that every project that his government is aggressively pursuing brings them closer to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision that was outlined for this country

and the 2020 manifesto promises made.

On the topic of taking Guyana forward, the Vice President revealed that the PPP/C Government was already planning Budget 2024 and had already engaged in a series of consultations with various trade unions from across the country.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

City Hall’s accountability crisis ONCE again, the spotlight is on Georgetown's City Hall, and once again, it is not for reasons that inspire confidence or pride.

The recent revelations by the General Secretary of the People's Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, expose a disconcerting lack of accountability and transparency within the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), controlled by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

Dr. Jagdeo's concerns are not unfounded, as he shed light on City Hall's outdated asset register, which has not been updated in over two decades.

Such negligence in maintaining essential financial records raises

serious questions about the M&CC's ability to manage resources responsibly. The absence of audited statements for prolonged periods further underscores the dire state of affairs at City Hall.

The revelation that City Hall operated without a budget for the entirety of 2023 is a cause for alarm.

Dr. Jagdeo rightly points out the irony of entrusting funds to an entity that exhibits a lack of transparency and accountability.

The PPP General Secretary's skepticism is rooted in City Hall's track record, where financial resources have been misallocated, diverting them away from crucial projects like roads and canals.

It is evident that the

central government has stepped in to fill the void left by the M&CC's shortcomings, allocating significant funds for various projects in Georgetown.

The billions spent on city roads and the substantial investment in a garbage site outside Georgetown highlight the necessity of bypassing City Hall to ensure the city's essential infrastructure does not crumble.

However, the recent probe by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) into an alleged conspiracy to defraud City Hall's coffers adds another layer to the accountability crisis.

The reported involvement of a contractor and council staff in a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme raises

serious questions about the integrity of City Hall's operations.

Examining the details of this alleged fraud scheme further emphasises the urgent need for accountability: from the contractor's tasks in 2015 to the subsequent billing discrepancies and the Council's questionable motions to expedite payments. The revelation that the contractor received $130 million from City Hall during 2016-2018 adds weight to concerns about financial mismanagement.

Georgetown residents, who have endured years of inadequate municipal services, deserve better.

The issues of transparency and accountability at City Hall are not

new; they have persisted for years. Calls for a forensic audit, echoed by letter writers, commentators, and politicians, become more urgent in the face of repeated financial irregularities.

A forensic audit is essential not only to scrutinise how public funds are expended but also to examine the tax-collecting system for signs of dishonesty, deficiency, and discrepancies. The public's confidence in City Hall's ability to utilise tax revenues efficiently for the city's development has been eroded over the years.

As Georgetown battles issues like garbage accumulation, insanitation, and strays, City Hall's poor track record exacerbates

the challenges. The government is often compelled to step in, redirecting resources to projects that the M&CC should have undertaken.

The time for action is now. A comprehensive forensic audit is a crucial step toward restoring public confidence and holding those responsible for financial mismanagement accountable.

Georgetown deserves a City Hall that operates with transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the city's development.

The residents have waited long enough; it's time for City Hall to be a beacon of responsible governance rather than a symbol of neglect and financial mismanagement.

Heartfelt appreciation for the one-off grant for pensioners Dear Editor, I would like to express my satisfaction with the President’s announcement for the pensioners of Guyana. Being 70 years of age, you’ll understand when I say a

thoughtful gesture like this, giving us a 25,000-dollar bonus, represents far more than just financial assistance.

It demonstrates a profound respect for the elderly and a com-

mitment to ensuring our well-being. The one-off grant will undoubtedly provide much-needed support to us, pensioners, helping to alleviate financial pressures and improve our overall quality of life.

It is with great pride that the government here is seen [acknowledging and compensating] our old folks for the unique challenges we face. We will now be more comfortable in our twilight years as we

enjoy our retirement.

I smiled because I know in my heart of hearts, this is how you, Mr President, treat the old folks of your society with dignity and respect. Well done!

I commend the government for understanding the needs of our pensioners.

Yours truly, Ismay Johnson Retired charwoman

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Shared Responsibility: Eradicating Hunger in Latin America and the Caribbean

By Mario Lubetkin, FAO Assistant Director-General and FAO Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean.

THE figures published by the latest Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2023 are cause for great concern. The document is clear: Hunger continues to significantly affect Latin America and the Caribbean.

The reasons are varied; consequences of the pandemic, armed conflicts, climate crisis, economic slowdown, rising food inflation, and income inequality have all generated a difficult scenario that

requires immediate action.

Our region has an opportunity that we must not miss. Only with stability and peace will it be possible to achieve development and resolve food insecurity.

According to the Regional Overview 2023, although Latin America and the Caribbean registers a slight drop of 0.5 per cent in hunger levels when compared to the previous measurement, it is essential to remember that, despite this progress, we are still 0.9 percentage points above the hunger levels of 2019, prior to the outbreak of COVID-19.

But hunger does not affect the region uniformly.

In South America, there was a reduction of 3.5

million hungry people between 2021 and 2022, but there are still seven million additional undernourished people compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, totalling XX million. In Mesoamerica, the prevalence of hunger has barely changed, affecting 9.1 million people in 2022, representing 5.1 per cent.

The situation is worrisome in the Caribbean, where 7.2 million people experienced hunger in 2022, with an alarming prevalence of 16.3 per cent of the population. Between 2021 and 2022, hunger increased by 700,000 people, and compared to 2019, the increase was one million people, with Haiti being one of the most affected countries.

While hunger figures continue to concern us, overweight in children under five years of age continues to rise, exceeding the global estimate, and a quarter of the adult population lives with obesity.

FAO recognises the urgency of addressing this issue and is committed

to updating the CELAC FNS Plan for food and nutritional security. The recent Buenos Aires Declaration of the VII CELAC Summit reaffirmed the commitment of the 33 member states to food security, agriculture, and sustainable development.

This declaration emphasised the importance of updating the plan in accordance with the new international context and the challenges facing the region, with the technical assistance of global organisations like FAO and regional organisations such as ECLAC, IICA, and ALADI, to achieve a comprehensive solution.

The update of the food plan takes into account national commitments relat-

ed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, evidence-based policies and good practices in the region, providing a mechanism that contributes to the eradication of poverty, hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition.

Eradicating hunger is a shared responsibility, and together we must redouble our efforts to ensure that no citizen of Latin America and the Caribbean goes hungry.

Food security is essential for the well-being of our communities and the sustainable development of the region, and we must continue to work together, leaving no one behind. FAO is fully committed to this challenge.

Venezuelans will suffer because of Maduro’s threats to Guyana

Dear Editor N i c h o l á s M u d u r o ’s threats to annex the Essequibo, an integral part of Guyana, will result in immense suffering for the Venezuelan people. Mr. Maduro is well known for incompetence, something that has been established by every independent analyst who has ever evaluated the destruction of his country’s economy. As numerous scholars, journalists, economists, and world leaders have noted, Maduro is no Hugo Chavez. While Chavez had vision and courage, Maduro is known for myopia, and for coward-

ice against small nations.

Maduro is whipping up anti-Guyanese hysteria in Venezuela to fool them into voting ‘yes’ on his bogus December 3rd referendum. In what must boggle the mind, he is telling Venezuelans that Guyana is “escalating” tensions against the Bolivarian Republic. But how could this be? Venezuela’s military is among the most powerful in the Americas, while Guyana’s is among the smallest.

Venezuela’s Air Force has 263 aircrafts (including 81 helicopters). Its Navy has 46 vessels including a submarine, two mini-submarines, frig-

ates, 25 patrol boats, and 6 gunboats. The Army has 312 war tanks, 1000 AFVs, 200 field artillery, and 36 rocket artillery.

Estimates of their active military personnel varies from (125,000-150,000 – CIA), to 1.3 million (Venezuelan government), plus a whopping 3.2 million militia personnel. Eight million Venezuelans are also available for recruitment!

By contrast the CIA had this to say of Guyana’s military - the Guyana Defense Force's limited inventory is mostly comprised of second-hand platforms. The GDF is only 3,000 strong. While

they are well trained, Guyana’s military is massively outnumbered, and has minimal war-fighting capability compared to Venezuela.

The Global Firepower Review ranks Venezuela at 52 out of 145 countries, with 1 being the highest. Guyana is not strong enough to be ranked.

Maduro must know all of this. In fact, he has been whipping up sentiments precisely because he knows the differences in capabilities. Yet, the leader of the Bolivarian Republic is making a big mistake, only this time bigger than the ones he made that led to crashing

the Venezuelan economy.

While Guyana is a small country, it is on the right side of history.

While we are a democracy with an open economy, Maduro is running a military dictatorship with massive human rights violations. While we follow international law, Maduro has been breaking international law for years.

The most consequential difference, however, is that while countries such as the United States and Great Britain will stand with Guyana to defend its territorial integrity, Venezuela will stand alone with its aggression.

Dictators have a pre-

dictable habit of oppressing their own people while simultaneously aggressing against smaller, weaker nations. The news for these strongmen, however, is not good. All their gambits for territorial glory have imploded. Remember Iraq’s catastrophic mistake of invading Kuwait. It was also about oil. Iraq was destroyed, and until today, the Iraqi people are suffering.

Mr. Maduro is a known territorial predator. He should be careful. If not, the Venezuelan people will suffer immensely.

Sincerely, Dr. Randy Persaud

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Cost oil audits and the Petroleum Agreement

Dear Editor, There were several reports in a certain section of the media highlighting a number of the cost oil audit findings [preliminarily] for the period 2018-2020. Of interest, it was reported that the auditors had requested the production data from ExxonMobil Guyana (EMG). According to the news report, the auditors were reportedly consistently told by EMG that the production data is not part of the scope of the audit, and that the data is with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).

The scope of the cost oil audit is governed by the provisions of the Petroleum Agreement (2016). Understandably, there is likely to be differences in interpretation by the various parties, in this case, by the auditors and EMG (the Contractor).

My interpretation, having examined the relevant provisions in the Petroleum Agreement, is that the production data is part of the scope of the audit and inspections, therefore the auditors were in order to request same from EMG. And, although the Ministry ought to be in possession of the data, EMG should not have responded in that manner to the request, assuming that the reports in the media are true and correct.

To this end, the hereunder stated provisions of the Petroleum Agreement (2016) come into effect: Pursuant to Article 9.1 (a) of the Petroleum Agreement, “the Contractor shall, at all times while this Agreement is in force, maintain and

submit to the Minister in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Regulations, the Petroleum Production License and this Agreement, full and accurate reports, records, returns and accounts of Petroleum Operations in the Contract Area.

Article 9.1 (b) establishes… “all data, well logs, maps, magnetic tapes, cuts of cores and cutting samples and all other geological and geophysical information obtained by the Contractor in the course of carrying out Petroleum Operations hereunder and all geological, technical, financial, and economic reports, studies and analyses generated in relation thereto shall be submitted to the Minister in accordance with the Regulations”.

Article 9.1 (d) establishes… “Petroleum Data shall be the joint property of the Minister and the Contractor but shall become the sole property of the Minister with respect to any area which ceases to be part of the Contract area, whether as a result of relinquishment, or expiry, surrender or termination of a License or otherwise in accordance with the Act, from the date on which such area ceases to be part of the Contract Area”.

Further, Article 9.1 establishes… “nothing in this Article shall be construed as requiring the Contractor to or any of the parties comprising the Contractor to disclose any of its proprietary technology or that of its Affiliated Companies which is not acquired in the course of Petroleum Operations under this Agreement” …

(g) “All Petroleum Data acquired under the 1999 Petroleum Agreement shall be Petroleum data under this Agreement and shall have been considered to have been properly acquired hereunder; however nothing in regard to this Article 9.1 (g) shall affect the rights of the Government in data acquired through multi-client licenses”.

Article 23 – Accounting and Audits Article 23.1 establishes that “the Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining accounting records relating to Petroleum Operations under this Agreement with the Accounting Procedures set out in Annex C hereto”.

Article 23.2 establishes that “the Minister shall have the right to audit the accounting records of the Contractor in respect of Petroleum Operations in accordance with Accounting Procedure”.

Article 23.3 establishes that “nothing in this Article shall be construed as limiting the right of Government or any officer of Government pursuant to any statutory power to audit or cause to be audited the books of the Contractor”.

Article 31 – Miscellaneous Article 31.3 establishes that “in the event of any conflict between any provisions in the main body of this Agreement and any provisions in the Annexes, the provision in the main body shall prevail”.

Annex C – Accounting Procedure 1.2 Documentation Required to be Submitted by the Contractor

a) The Contractor shall keep the accounts, operating records, reports, and statements relating to the Petroleum Operations: (i) in accordance with the terms of the Agreement and this Accounting Procedure; and (ii) in such form as may be agreed from time to time between the Parties which shall identify the categories of costs, expenses, expenditures, and credits classified in Sections 2 and 3 of this Annex. (b) Pursuant to (a) above, the Contractor shall make quarterly Statements relating to the Petroleum Operations including: (i) Production Statement (see section 5 of this Annex). (ii) Value of Production and Pricing Statement (see section 6 of this Annex). (iii) Statement of Expenditures and Receipts (see section 7 of this Annex). (iv) Cost Recovery Statement (see section 8 of this Annex). (v) End of Year Statement (see section 9 of this Annex). (vi) Budget Statement (see section 10 of this Annex).

Annex C Section 1.5 of the Petroleum Agreement (2016) prescribes the scope of the Audit and Inspection Rights of the Government. Specifically, Section 1.5 (a) states that…” for the purposes of auditing, the Minister may audit, examine, and verify…all charges and credits relating to the Contractor’s activities under the Agreement and all books of accounts,

accounting entries, material records and inventories, vouchers, payrolls, invoices and any other documents, correspondence, and records necessary to audit and verify the charges and credits”.

Based on my interpretation, records and inventories and any records necessary to conduct the audit includes the production data, which forms a substantive part of the Petroleum operations”.

Additionally, I have noted that there is a view that there is no penalty for breaches that are uncovered pursuant to the audit exercise, that are likely to impact the Government’s share of profit oil. Contrary to this view, Annex C Section 1.5 (b) states that “all adjustments from an audit agreed to by Contractor and the Minister conducting the audit shall be reflected promptly in the accounts by the Contractor and any consequential adjustments in Crude Oil entitlements shall also be made promptly. This provision goes onto state that “in the event that an audit claim by the Minister is not settled to the Minister’s satisfaction by the Contractor’s reply as provided for above the Contractor shall be entitled to recover any disputed amounts pending final resolution of the claim. However, any subsequent adjustments in the Minister’s share of Profit Oil following resolution of the claim shall be repaid with interest, at the agreed interest rate as first claim from Contractor’s share of future profit oil. In the event that the Contractor’s share of profit oil is insufficient to

provide for the Minister’s extra entitlement including interest, the Contractor shall promptly make an equivalent payment in United States dollars to the Minister”.

Considering the foregoing provision at Annex C Section 1.5 (b), this means that in relation to the current disputed US$214 million, whenever that matter is settled through the appropriate channel provided for in the Petroleum Agreement, if following the final settlement the Government share of profit oil has to be adjusted upwards, an agreed interest rate shall apply. Effectively, in this circumstance, the application of an interest rate is a form of penalty.

In accordance with the provisions in the Petroleum Agreement that governs the audit and inspection rights of the Government, together with the provisions contained in Articles 9, 23, 31 and Annex C Section 1.2, 1.5, the Contractor is contractually obligated to supply the auditors with production data and any other information and/or documentations requested by the auditors, in order to properly conduct the audit and inspection exercise on behalf of the Government.

Finally, with respect to penalties, the application of an agreed interest rate to the settlement of any disputed amounts to the Government’s share of profit oil, is effectively a form of penalty, which is provided for in the Petroleum Agreement.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

The Gaza War, APEC Summit and memories of a 78-year-old Peace Accord

AT the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1945, after the eternal human destruction of the atom bombs dropped on Japan at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the antagonists in World War II met in France to sign the accord that ended a global war whose intensity dwarfs Gaza today.

Seventy-eight years later, influential world leaders will meet at the 2023 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, which opens today (Saturday, November 11) in San Francisco, as the world watches the very possible start of another world war, while nursing memories of the 1945 ceasefire agreement.

The US city and President Joe Biden will host leaders of 21 APEC member economies from the Pacific Rim regions, including China’s President Xi Jinping.

The Summit, to be held under the theme, ‘Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All’, will, hopefully, underscore what the organisers have described as Washington’s “commitment to promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth while bolstering American competitiveness in a free and open Asia-Pacific…”

The gathering of world leaders, opens with official meetings this weekend, but will also offer another chance for the two leaders and their counterparts, to talk about peace and war, global

security and continued instability against the background of the Gaza War. Pres ident Biden, facing an uphill November 2024 election battle that’s drawing on his every sinew, has to balance his domestic policy with a global agenda that is more crisis-ridden than one year ago -- Ukraine, Taiwan, the Korean Peninsula, Taiwan and Haiti – and now has to face fractures with friends over Gaza.

The summit meets American diplomacy is in deepening crisis, with US State Department staff formally calling on Washington to condemn Israel’s violations of international law and rules of war and US Congress staff also mounting a similar protest earlier this week.

Senior government leaders in Europe (including Spain and Belgium) are calling for the breaking of ties with Tel Aviv, as some developing nations have already done.

G-7 Foreign Ministers met in Japan earlier this week, where Israel’s traditional allies and backers agreed to call for a pause in the fighting, but not for a ceasefire.

China will not be expected to take sides in passing blame in the Israel-Palestine conflict, but can be expected to lend its voice to pleas for a peaceful end through peace talks, to avoid a new regional war.

Beijing had warned, within days after the overwhelmingly dis-

proportionate Israeli response to the bold October 7 Hamas attack, that growing and deepening conflict could assume wider regional proportions across borders with Lebanon and Syria.

N o t m u c h l a t e r, fighting erupted on Israel’s northern border with Lebanon involving the armed wing of the powerful Hezbollah political movement, and the US fired missiles into Syria this week, alleging it was attacking ‘Iranian-backed’ targets.

With two of its largest aircraft carriers in Mediterranean waters to support ‘Israel’s right to defend itself’, and Israel having already dropped over 6,000 bombs weighing 4,000 tons on over 12,000 Gaza targets, Washington is now talking about opening ‘humanitarian corridors’ and deploying ‘hospital ships’ to care for the tens of thousands of mainly Palestinian victims of Israel’s Collective Punishment.

Washington and Israel have lost the propaganda war as Israelis and Jews at home and abroad are protesting that the killings are “not in our name”, and mil-

lions the world over are pounding pavements and streets across cities, calling for an end to the fighting.

Qatar is leading negotiations for the possible release of hostages and prisoners on both sides, while Israel says it’s not interested in negotiations, only in doing all it can to carpet-bomb Hamas and Gaza into non-existence.

Israel’s traditional G-7, EU and NATO allies – especially those with upcoming elections -- are also becoming increasingly disturbed about public reaction and global responses to Israel’s continuing slaughter of Palestinians at a rate of more than ten to one.

Over 10,000 Palestinians have died in the first month of this latest conflict, and the number continues adding up by the minute and hour, while the number of Israeli deaths – though just as regrettably -- remains almost the same as on the first day.

But close to 5,000 children are dead and unaccounted for, killed at a rate of 160 per day or more than one every ten minutes, while 55,000 pregnant women can’t get healthcare,

5,000 newborns face diseases, and hundreds of premature babies on ventilators end up dying when hospital generators run out of fuel.

W h i l e Wa s h i n g ton will be more interested in consolidating its competitive economic presence in the Asia-Pacific area at the summit, many APEC nations will also be seeking to maintain or increase their own levels of competitiveness and independence where they can, including Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore.

China is outpacing western competitors by restoring post-COVID economic recovery, outshining US and EU nations in post-Ukraine war economic growth performance, expanding its engagements with over 100 nations through the Belt & Road ‘Silk Road’ global construction and infrastructure initiative – while simultaneously ensuring its continuing modernity drive reaches people and pockets in all communities.

Just this week, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) revised its forecast of China's economic growth to 5.4 per cent from five per cent in October, due to a

stronger-than-expected third-quarter output and recent policy announcements.

All in all, President Xi will get another opportunity in San Francisco to appeal to his US counterpart to stop allowing presidential election politics to dictate Washington’s policies towards Beijing.

Recent high-flying visits to Beijing by US officials have been low on results that will close the widening gaps on and deepening divides between Washington and Beijing.

China’s historical advanced-roles in Information Technology (IT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have also placed it at the apex of the current discussion on needs for regulation and enforcement of related safety measures and standards.

But when the foreign ministers and leaders of APEC meet for their 2023 gathering, they will also be even-further divided by the global disconnections between people and governments over the conflict today in the eyes of humankind, while only dreaming of the F re n c h a c c o r d 7 8 years ago.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Why is a certain European nation not speaking up?

ISRAEL is 8,000 square miles. Iraq is 169,235 square miles. Measure the difference in size. Yet in a country the size of Iraq, satellite imagery pinpointed where Iraq had its Osirak nuclear reactor. No doubt a western nation shared the satellite imagery with Israel, and Israel bombed the reactor.

This was in 1981. Satellite capabilities have increased by leaps and bounds since that time. It is impossible for a nuclear site to be missed by both optical and radar satellites.

Testing a nuclear device sends off rays that monitoring satellites will pick up.

The intelligence-gathering capabilities of satellites allow major global powers to search the complete land mass of Planet Earth.

No country in the world today can develop nuclear weapons without the US, Russia, China, the UK, France, Japan, Australia, and maybe India knowing where those testing sites are. This is the purpose of satellites.

They monitor Planet Earth from above 24 hours a day.

Today, the mystery of the

location of Malaysia’s flight MH370 remains, but experts believe American satellite capability can pinpoint the location in the Indian Ocean where the plane sits, but to do so, they must reveal certain details about intelligence satellite gathering that no country will reveal.

It is understandable that the United States will not comment on whether Israel has nuclear weapons.

The Federation of American Scientists noted that Israel has about 90 warheads. The nuclear site is in the Negev desert. Even if the US and Israel will not admit that Israel has nuclear warhead, Russia will have that information.

Israel is 8,000 square miles. Compared to most countries in the world that is a speck. It is an impossibility in satellite technology not to pick up nuclear activity in a country with a million square miles much less a tiny dot of 8,000 square miles. Satellite technology can isolate the spot where the activity is taking place, even if the country is large and tries to hide it. Both Russia and the US know

where the Iranian research stations are located.

It is naïve for any international relations scholar to not wonder if the US shared that information with Israel.

The Israeli government has repeatedly declared that it is prepared to attack the site of Iran’s nuclear research. It knows where it is. For that reason, Iran has built underground bunkers to withstand Israeli bombers.

Last week, an Israeli Cabinet minister suggested that Israel use its nuclear capability to finish off Gaza. It is the first time since World War 2 that in a country with nuclear power, a minister has suggested the use of nuclear bombs. This came from Israel, a country that says it will not accept Iran having nuclear weapons.

The former president of Russia, and Deputy Chief of Russia’s Security Council, Dmitri Medvedev, has subtly hinted that the war between Russia and Ukraine could lead to a nuclear confrontation with NATO. But this is no way near to what the Israeli minister said.

He expressed the view that dropping a nuclear bomb on

Gaza was an option.

The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a response to what the minister uttered and said that Israel has now admitted that it has nuclear weapons. But Russia knew this from satellite images decades ago, but the Russians have never publicly informed the world that Russia has evidence that Israel has warheads.

In its response to the minister’s outburst, Russia steered clear of any mention that it knows that Israel is a nuclear power. It is baffling and inexplicable that Russia, with its satellite capabilities, has never told

the world that it knows that Israel has weapons of mass destruction.

What could be the reason for that? One could be that to reveal that information would be letting other big powers know Russia uses satellite imagery for intelligence gathering.

But that is jejune knowledge in the world today.

The entire world knows that there is activity among big powers that is known as intelligence satellite gathering. Australia uses it against China, perhaps daily, and China does the same in relation to Australia.

Why then Russia has

not come out and inform the world that it knows Israel has the nuclear option. Israel has it. The world knows it. It is logical for the Americans not to make it known.

But why should Russia behave the same way?

The story of Russian inexplicabilities in international relations since World War 2 is the kind of stuff that excites scholars who have studied both the USSR and Russia.

Interestingly, after decolonization, the Third World has not shown much faith in the USSR and now Russia.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

‘Citizenry must speak up, speak out against Venezuela’s claims’

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- Jagdeo says, urges more Guyanese to be vocal on the controversy

GUYANESE are being urged to be more vocal, speaking up and out against Venezuela’s tyrant narratives and claims over the country’s Essequibo region.

At his weekly press conference on Thursday, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/) the governing political body in the country, said more patriotic displays from the citizenry are needed amid the increasing claims being made by the Bolivarian Republic.

“I hope that Guyanese would go online and comment on these issues when they see them. They have a slew of people in Venezuela who do that all the time…but we need to do much more from our side, particularly at the level of the population, not just as the government or opposition because we are working together on this issue but at the level of the citizenry to point out these misleading things when statements are made. We need to expose them as being lies and fictions,” the Guyanese politician said.

For decades, Venezuela has made unjust claims to two-thirds of Guyana’s territory despite the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established a “full, perfect and final” settlement of the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Responding to several statements made, not only by the Venezuelan politicians, but also some of its populace, Dr. Jagdeo said: “It’s a lot of fiction that comes out of Venezuela.”

Guyana, he further maintained, has always supported and respected the rule of international law.

“Our position is quite clear on what we are hoping to achieve and the process through what we are hoping to achieve. We do now need to do much more work to ensure that their fiction doesn’t get

PPP/C’s General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

repeated.”

REFERENDUM In its most recent

attempt to thwart the rule of law, the Nicolás Maduro government

plans to put forward a referendum on Guyana’s Essequibo.

However, the Guyana Government has sought the intervention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

A hearing into this matter is set for next week, while an impending case on the border controversy itself is still ongoing at the court.

Speaking on the upcoming case, Guyana’s Adviser on Borders and Agent in the Venezuelan Border Case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Carl Greenidge, on Monday, explained that the Bolivarian state’s most recent attempt to assert TURN TO PAGE 12

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

‘Citizenry must speak up...

FROM PAGE 11

claims over Guyana’s territory is to have its electorate pronounce on matters of treaties, the work of the courts and the well-being of Guyanese.

The upcoming hearing is to ensure this does not happen.

“The court is being asked not so much to stop them having a referendum, but to ensure they know, and to ensure that the referendum doesn’t have provisions which give the Venezuelan public the mistaken belief that they have the right to decide on other citizens’ fate, citizens outside of the borders of Venezuela, in defiance

of world opinion, in defiance of world practice, and in defiance of the obligations that Venezuela as a signatory to an agreement that still exists,” Greenidge explained.

The referendum, he said, is problematic and disregards international law: “The referendum, as is usual with these things, is part of a scenario. In other words, maybe if it was the referendum alone it would be bad enough. But if you look at what has been happening over the past few months, you will find the referendum is one of many things that we are concerned about. ” Earlier this week

lawmakers from both the government and the opposition joined in a united front to pass a historic Motion to reinforce Guyana’s position on the border controversy.

Politicians, from both sides of the National Assembly, spoke at length about the controversy, maint a i n i n g G u y a n a ’s stance in support of i n t e r n a t i o n a l l a w, while delving into the history of the original settlement that was made between the two nations and presenting facts to support Guyana’s ownership of the Essequibo region.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Canadian senator, parliamentarians set for official visit to Guyana

Senator Salma Atayllahjan

AS Canada continues to strengthen bilateral relations with Guyana, the High Commission of Canada and the National Assembly of Guyana have announced that one senator and three members of parliament from Canada will be here from November 13 – 18, as part of engagements through the Commonwealth Par-

Assistant Deputy Speaker and Chair of the CPA Canadian Branch, Alexandra Mendès

liamentary Association (CPA).

The team of Parliamentarians will include: Alexandra Mendès, M.P., Assistant Deputy Speaker, Chair of the CPA Canadian Branch; Salma Ataullahjan, Senator, Canadian Branch Executive Committee Member; Rhéal Éloi Fortin, M.P., Canadian Branch Member; and Robert Kitchen, M.P.,

Canadian Branch Executive Committee Member.

The delegation will be involved in several high-level engagements, including a meeting with the Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, engagements with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, and meetings with several parliamentarians includ-

Member of Parliament, Rhéal Éloi Fortin

ing Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton.

This visit will give Canadian delegates the opportunity to advance relations with the Parliament Office and members of parliament from Guyana, and exchange views on common areas of interest, such as climate change, oil and gas opportunities, indigenous peoples and a paperless

Member of Parliament, Robert Kitchen

parliament.

The Canadian Branch of the CPA has been actively working with Commonwealth partners in the Caribbean and globally to encourage “twinning” (partnerships) with territorial legislatures. The objective of twinning is to provide mutual capacity-building support and technical assistance and facilitate the ex-

change of knowledge and best practices between Canadian and Guyanese parliamentarians.

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was founded in 1911 and works to promote parliamentary democracy and good governance, through focus on parliamentary practice and procedure.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

USAID to assist Guyana in cultivation, production of turmeric, coconut, cherries WITH Guyanese farmers set to benefit from specialised technical assistance under a $5.3 million Caribbean Agricultural Productivity Improvement Activity (CAPA) project being funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Friday met with a team from the agency to discuss priority areas.

During the meeting, Minister Mustapha disclosed that a lot has been done over the past three years to assist farmers, and that the outcomes have indicated that both Guyana and the Caribbean are moving in the right direction.

Minister Mustapha also spoke about Guyana’s plan to commence construction of a food terminal before the end of 2023 as the government gears up to make Guyana a regional food distributor.

“We have a lot of room to collaborate, and I know USAID has been a valuable partner over the years. We are seeing a lot of positive results from what we started when we took office in 2020. Those results are very promising for us in terms of food security.

We are on the verge of starting our food terminal, so that we can be a food distributor for the Caribbean. I have the technical people working, and we are looking to get that project started before the year is out, because we have a lot in place already. So, overall, I think we are moving in the right direction in the Caribbean in terms of the 25 by 2025 Initia-

tive,” he explained.

Programme Director for IESC’s USAID Caribbean Agricultural Productivity Improvement Activity (CAPA), Sandiford Edwards informed Minister Mustapha that the upcoming programme cycle for USAID’s CAPA is scheduled to commence

as the government has invested in a major plant in Region One. So, in discussion, we agreed that turmeric is an area where we are going to provide some support in terms of working with the farmers. We’ve also listed coconuts, recognising that this is the third most exported

support them with specialized agriculture loan products. The project will also work with input suppliers,” he explained.

Minister Mustapha said that the government is now repositioning and revitalizing the spices sector and has since designated Region One as the spices region of the

We’ve also, in the three sub-districts in Region One, built processing facilities to support these industries,” Minister Mustapha added.

Earlier this week Regional Representative of USAID in the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, Mr. Mervyn Farroe disclosed that the

nesses, and educational institutions,” he said.

The USAID Director for the Eastern and Southern Caribbean highlighted that CAPA is one of the aid agency’s key collaborations with CARICOM that emerged from the 9th Summit of the Americas.

He noted that US-

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha along with the team from USAID. Also pictured is the Agriculture Ministry’s Director-General Madanlall Ramraj

sometime in January. He also said that through consultations with agencies like the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), the local Private Sector, and farmers, they were able to identify three target commodities for support.

“We have identified three value chains in terms of support for Guyana. Turmeric is one,

produce from Guyana.

We’ve also looked at cherries and how we can work with farmers to access resources. We met with some of the large producers, and there is a gap in supply where we can support farmers to expand production. We are in deep discussion with the GBTI to look at the staff capacity building in agricultural lending to see how we can

country.

“We’ve started a lot of work to develop our spice industry. In fact, Region One was designated the spice region of the country. For this crop, the farmers are expected to reap about a million pounds of ginger. We started the cultivation of other spices like black pepper, and nutmeg, and we’ll continue to expand on those.

programme is currently in the design phase in Guyana. Mr. Farroe also said the new farmer-to-farmer programme is a five-year initiative that would start this year.

“Farmer-to-farmer sends US-based volunteers on technical assignments and these volunteers really have technical skills to provide hands-on training to communities, cooperatives, agri-busi-

AID had responded to Guyana’s mission to ensure food security in the Caribbean by crafting the CAPA project which has three interconnected objectives that are aimed at generating tangible positive impact for smallholder farmers, enterprises, and consumers across the region. (Ministry of Agriculture)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Labour Ministry, CAMS partner in comprehensive workplace safety initiative

TWENTY Caribbean Aviation Maintenance Services (CAMS) employees on the Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee received certificates, Friday morning, for successfully completing a six-day, fourhour Joint Workplace Safety and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Training Programme.

The programme, a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department, and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), aimed to train members of the Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee and prepare them to carry out their mandate in the workplace, as required

by Chapter 99:06 of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act. It also aims to equip representatives with the knowledge and skills needed to design and maintain safe work systems and techniques, thereby minimising or eliminating workplace accidents.

This would then allow participants to demonstrate an understanding of their roles and responsibilities as Joint Workplace Safety Committee representatives.

Participants can now con-

duct workplace inspections, accident investigations, and adopt methods to control and/or eliminate hazards in their own workplaces. This includes the participants and the workplace receiving certification that would be valid for one year.

Joseph Hamilton, Minister of Labour, congratulated CAMS staff for realising the necessity of being provided with the required skills to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. Their participation, he claimed, would help the ministry's efforts to promote safe and healthy workplaces and eliminate work-related hazards across the country.

With that in mind, he positioned them to utilise the knowledge and talents they had learned and to become "change makers for yourself and others in your workplace." The Minister also urged them to share their knowledge with others so that they, too, may contribute to the ministry's aim of creating a safe and healthy workplace.

"My ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone, be it a miner, welder, electrician or even a construction worker will return home every day after a hard day of work be-

Joseph Hamilton, Minister of Labour (seated at right) with other officials and the CAMS employees on the Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee that completed the training programme cause of what the Ministry is doing and will continue to protect the lives of all workers," the minister said.

Since assuming office in 2020, the OSH department implemented a comprehensive and holistic approach to

protecting the lives of public and private workers in the country.

So far, under the leadership of Minister Hamilton, workplace fatalities reduced by 16 per cent in 2021, and further declined in 2022 by

20 percent.

Also present at the ceremony were OSH Consultant, Ms. Gweneth King, Senior OSH officers, Mr. Roydon Croal and Ms. Maxean Bess, OSH officers, Ms. Neza King, Ms.

Johana Vaughn, and Mr. Darwin Bourne and Director of Maintenance and Human Relations of CAMS, Mr. John Issacs, among other officials.

Over 5,000 persons to soon access lands at ECD

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

- as over $12B in infrastructural works progress smoothly

A CRITICAL component of the Government’s housing drive is to ensure and increase occupancy, in schemes a c ro s s t h e c o u n t r y.

Equal to this, is ensuring the necessary infrastructural works are in place and making these lands accessible.

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, on Friday, conducted a series of visits and on-site meetings with contractors responsible for the infrastructural development works that are ongoing in a number of schemes along the East Coast of Demerara.

The schemes visited today included; Plantation Hope, Plantation Enterprise and Non Pariel, Good Hope, Lusignan Ph.1 & 2 and Two Friends, Success and Le Ressouvenir.

Having had a first-hand look and being able to inspect the ongoing works,

Minister Croal called on the contractors to be mindful of their deadline, as thousands of citizens are eagerly awaiting access to their lands. The ongoing works in these schemes include land clearing, installation of road networks, drainage, bridges and pipe networks.

Overall, the Minister noted his satisfaction at the pace at which works are progressing. He told media representatives present that ever so often persons do not have a sense of appreciation for the works being undertaken in the housing sector.

“We are often flacked that we are not doing enough but our figure will show that on the East Coast of Demerara alone more than $12 Billion is being spent on infrastructure works, and this is to ensure that the 5,000 plus person who received lands in these areas can access their lands and start con-

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, met with contractors responsible for the infrastructural development works that are ongoing in a number of schemes along the East Coast of Demerara

struction”.

The $12B is being spent to develop a combined total of approximately 923 acres of land,

and, in most instances, virgin lands, the Minister pointed out.

Meanwhile, the contractors also took the

opportunity to raise the challenges they face, even as they push to meet deadlines. Some of the contractors also

reported that, despite the minor setbacks on some of their project sites, they are on track to meet the year- end deadline.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

‘Delay was certainly not denial’ - UG Valedictorian says; urges persons seeking academic development to make UG their first choice

DESCRIBING his experience at the University of Guyana as one that he will cherish, this year’s valedictorian, Khushal Singh said that the delay in his initial study route was certainly not a denial.

Singh was, at the time, delivering his valedictory address at the University’s 57th convocation, where he shared his experience at the university, where completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Public Management, and shared words of encouragement to fellow graduands and those interested in studying in the future.

The 26-year-old who hails from Enterprise, East Coast Demerara completed his programme with a perfect Grade Point Average of 4.0 and is among some 3,000 graduands at this year’s convocation exercise.

Singh captured both the President’s Medal for Best Graduating Bachelor’s Degree Student and the Prime Minister’s Medal for Best Graduating Student with a Degree in Public Management.

During his address, he said that he believes his story is one of compelling reinforcement of the adage that you need not be a product of your environment.

He added: “I believe it also reinforces the possibilities for rising above your limitations and challenges, and the character-moulding experiences that come through trials and setbacks.”

Singh said he moved from selling DVDs in an alley on Regent Street out of high school to where he is today. This experience helped him to understand the true meaning of humility.

The journey, of course,

was not without its challenges. Pursuing a fouryear degree in three years, Singh said he endured many things including having lectures clashing, having to do multiple exams in one day, and having to do additional courses and summer courses.

Giving props to peers who walked the stage, he hailed the mothers who

however, not straightforward, as four years ago he applied to the university to read for a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations and due to circumstances with his employment this was not possible.

He expressed: “I overcame my devastation and subsequently pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Public Management. So, for

The University of Guyana’s 2023 Valedictorian, Khushal Singh

juggled jobs, taking care of their homes and children while also having to make time for classes and assignments. He further saluted fathers who might have had to deal with the same circumstances and manage to be in the fields working and having to log into classes.

“My experience at the University of Guyana has been one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I went in search of knowledge and gained much more: meeting brilliant minds, making friends, and having some of the most considerate and kind lecturers and academics in this country,” he said.

The valedictorian added that his journey was,

me, delay was certainly not denial.”

Further to this, he encouraged those persons who are seeking to develop themselves academically to make the University of Guyana their first choice, noting that it’s a vibrant institution that he is proud to be a product of.

As he gave a charge to this year’s graduands, he implored them to not stop their journey here and to let this achievement be their stepping stone to further elevation to success and positive societal impact.

This, he said, is only the beginning and he intends to advance to his Master’s and Doctorate.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday November 11, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 8 (2) Ramiz Raja-119* (PAK vs NZ, Christchurch) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many hundreds were compiled in the 1996 World Cup? (2) Who made the highest individual score?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue ……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………

AMERICAN RACING

SOUTH AFRICA RAC-

lin

TIPS

ING TIPS

10:10 hrs Master Chewy

AQUEDUCT

DURBANVILLE

10:45 hrs Fantastic Lady

Race 1 Running Lucky

08:10 hrs Rio Querari

11:50 hrs Clap Of Thun-

Race 2 Iron Works

08:45 hrs Blue Holly

der

Race 3 Modern Era

09:20 hrs Trip Of Fortune

Race 4 Handsome Cat

09 55 hrs Mrs Geriatrix

WINCANTON

Race 5 Won Team

10:30 hrs Veldskoen

08:40 hrs Meatloaf

Race 6 Sacred Wish

11:05 hrs She's My Cap-

09:15 hrs Midnight

Race 7 Utamaro

tain

Midge

Rave 8 American Mon-

09:50 hrs Knappers Hill

arch

10:25 hrs Ashtown Lad

Race 9 Verstappen

ENGLISH RACING

11:00 hrs Hansard

Race10 Icy Flavor

TIPS

11:32 hrs Ilovethenight-

NEWCASTLE

life

08:15 hrs Altmore

12:10 hrs Baskerville

08:50 hrs Master Of My Fate 09:30 hrs Veil Of Shad-

IRISH RACING TIPS

ows

DOWN ROYAL

10:05 hrs Sense Of Duty

08:35 hrs Wodhooh

10:40 hrs Lion's House

09:10 hrs Down Memory

11:15 hrs Bielsa

Lane

11:45 hrs Local Dynasty

09:45 hrs The Model Kingdom

AINTREE

10:30 hrs Gerri Colombe

08:25 hrs Josh The Boss

11:28 hrs Cave Court

09:00 hrs Giovinco's

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09:35 hrs Imperial Mer-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

SLC suspended by ICC (ESPNCRICINFO) - Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has been suspended by the ICC with immediate effect because of extensive government interference in the board's administration.

Though the ICC has termed the sanction a "suspension", in reality it is a warning as the ICC seeks to prevent further govern-

ment interference in the running of SLC. As it stands, the suspension will not have any immediate serious impact on Sri Lankan cricket. Sri Lanka's World Cup campaign ended on Thursday and there is no cricket happening in the country until December. No ICC funds are due to go to SLC until January.

While the ICC's

quarterly meetings are scheduled for November 18-21 in Ahmedabad, the ICC board met online on Friday to address the SLC situation - government interference in all spheres from administration to finance and even matters concerning the national team. The next course of action will be decided when the ICC board meets on Novem-

Sri Lanka’s disastrous performance during the World Cup in India has resulted in an upheaval at home (ICC via Getty Images)

ber 21.

The ICC's decision might appear to have come out of the blue, but SLC may not have been surprised. It is understood that SLC asked the ICC board to take this extreme step.

The ICC also continues to recognise SLC president Shammi Silva, who is currently in India and attended Friday's meeting, as the elected representative. He is also likely to be present at the ICC meetings in Ahmedabad as the ICC Board has allowed SLC representatives to be present in an observer capacity.

"The ICC Board met today and determined that Sri Lanka Cricket is in serious breach of its obligations as a Member, in particular, the requirement to manage its affairs autonomously and ensure that there is no government interference in the governance, regulation and/or administration of cricket in Sri Lanka," the ICC said in a state-

ment. "The conditions of the suspension will be decided by the ICC Board in due course."

O n M o n d a y, S r i Lanka's sports minister Roshan Ranasinghe had sacked the SLC board and installed an interim committee headed

by Arjuna Ranatunga, but Sri Lanka's courts essentially reinstated the board a day later by issuing a 14-day stay order on the gazette that dissolved the board.

Since then, the affairs of Sri Lanka Cricket have been debated at length in the country's parliament.

But as of Friday, when the ICC suspension came, it was the elected SLC board headed by Silva that was running cricket in the country.

Even if the interim committee was in power, the appointment of such committees by the government had not prompted suspension by the ICC before. The previous occasion when an interim committee was in place, from 2014

to 2015, resulted in the ICC putting the funds due to SLC in escrow, and demoted SLC to observer status at board meetings. But they remained a member of the ICC officially.

Sri Lanka's sports minister has also had the role of ratifying all Sri Lankan national teams, as per the nation's sports law, which has been in place since 1973.

SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva refused to comment to the subject.

SLC is the second Full Member to be suspended by ICC in the last four years after Zimbabwe Cricket was suspended in 2019 for government interference. However, unlike in Zimbabwe's case, where all cricket activities in the country were abruptly shut down, in addition to a freeze on funding, the ICC will tread carefully in Sri Lanka's case.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

van der Dussen stonewalls Afghanistan as South Africa warm up for semis

(ESPNCRICINFO) - A 62-ball partnership of 65 between Rassie van der Dussen and Andile Phehlukwayo shepherded South Africa to a win against Afghanistan in their last league-stage game of the 2023 ODI World Cup, ensuring they didn't stutter in a tricky chase before

istan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi said after their defeat, and that summed up their bowling effort too. They came back superbly after South Africa's openers put on 64 for the first wicket but Mujeeb Ur Rahman's wicket of Temba Bavuma (23) and Mohammad Nabi's wicket of Quinton de Kock (41)

and clinically rotated the strike early on. In all, he scored 38 runs off singles and four off twos in his 95-ball innings - once every 2.26 deliveries.

That helped him stay on top of the Afghan spinners through the middle overs, and when Noor Ahmad or Mujeeb erred, he punished them to keep

Rassie van der Dussen attempts a reverse sweep•Nov 10, 2023 (AFP/Getty Images) their semi-final against Australia.

Phehlukwayo came in as the No. 7 with South Africa needing 63 but with Afghanistan's spinners then possessing the game's momentum. Phehlukwayo finished the game with 6, 4, 6 to finish unbeaten on 39 while van der Dussen controlled the chase with his 95-ball 76*.

In the afternoon, Gerald Coetzee (4-44) and Keshav Maharaj (2-25) had ensured Afghanistan could only make 244 in 50 overs. In fact, the target could've been much less had it not been for Azmatullah Omarzai's unbeaten 97 that expertly held the crumbling Afghanistan innings together.

"We fought right till the last moment", Afghan-

in quick succession applied pressure on South Africa.

Led by Rashid Khan's penetrative and troubling spell of 2 for 37, Afghanistan also picked off Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller without the trio doing much damage, and when Phehlukwayo - playing his first game of the World Cup - joined van der Dussen, it seemed like Afghanistan were one more wicket away from exposing the lower order. That didn't happen, and South Africa brushed aside any lingering doubts about their chasing capabilities.

For van der Dussen, the Player of the Match, his unbeaten innings of 76 was his fourth fifty-plus score of the World Cup. He walked in at 64 for 1,

South Africa's score moving. His stability at one end ensured South Africa were never behind in the game even when wickets fell regularly, and he was strong behind square, hitting five of his six fours between deep third and deep backward square leg.

Earlier in the day, Afghanistan opted to bat first knowing they needed an improbably 438-run victory to move to fourth on the points table. The opening stand blossomed briefly, but two consecutive wicket-maiden overs bowled by Maharaj and Coetzee sent both Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran back before the powerplay ended.

Maharaj then prised out Shahidi to reduce Afghanistan to 45 for 3 and went on to produce a miserly

spell of 2 for 25 that included 41 dots and no boundaries.

Coetzee brought the fire through the middle overs, giving a strong account of himself through the early middle overs when Lungi Ngidi was out with a hamstring issue. He would also get Ibrahim Alikhil and Noor caught behind, and also dismissed Mujeeb with a short ball to finish with 4

for 44. Rabada went wicketless but only conceded 40 in 10 overs while Ngidi's two wickets kept Afghanistan in check even though he was expensive at the death.

Afghanistan's wrecker-in-chief, especially when it came to Ngidi, was Omarzai, who walked in at 45 for 3, but held fort even as wickets tumbled alongside him. In the company

of Rashid and Noor, he dragged Afghanistan from 116 for 6 to 204 for 8 before a late assault took him rapidly towards a century. A tidy Rabada over ensured he would fall three runs short, however his innings of seven fours and three sixes ensured Afghanistan had a score they could possibly defend, even if it wasn't to be in the end.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Wilson deserves another crack at the GFF Presidency

September 11, 2011, is widely regarded as one of the defining moments in the history of Guyana’s football, and the man under whose stewardship it occurred, has officially entered the race for Presidency of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF).

The former (acting) president of the GFF, Franklin Wilson, confirmed his intention through the presentation of his slate to the current executive recently.

Many aficionados familiar with the period of his term in office have already begun to express support for his bid, stating that they believe he is well equipped with the administrative expertise to resurrect the sport from its present state of comatose.

The GFF is scheduled to stage its Electoral Congress on December 9, 2023, at its National Training Centre,

Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Wilson grasped the opportunity with both hands’ despite being thrust into the position at short notice.

Wilson’s performance during that stint was described as exemplary, a period which saw the national team being engaged in over twenty-two friendly international matches across Guyana senior men’s and Guyana Under-23 teams. This twoprong, first and second team approach, exposed and developed over forty (40) plus players across the Caribbean and Latin America. The players included the likes of teenager Trayon Bobb, who played for the U23’s then, was promoted to the Guyana Senior team for an important World Cup Qualifier away in El Salvador.

Trayon Bobb scored two goals on his debut that night

and helped the Golden Jaguars to a famous El Salvador 2 – 2 Guyana draw. By the time Wilson left as President (acting) in 2012, Trayon Bobb had signed to a pro football team in Europe.

The period also saw Guyana advanced to the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, at the expense of our more established Caribbean counterparts, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Bermuda.

That achievement marked the first time in the country’s football history that the Golden Jaguars made it to that stage of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and while many other elements came together to make it possible, the GFF, under the LEADERSHIP of Wilson, must be commended for that historic accomplishment.

The experienced sports administrator is a proven

performer in this realm, having also served in senior positions in other disciplines such as powerlifting, bodybuilding, and cycling.

The conversant administrator throughout his involvement in sports has always displayed a willingness to impart his vast experience to many other sports entities and this unselfish attitude has enabled him to become the current Assistant Director of Sport within the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport (MCYS).

It is a testament to how much belief the MCYS has conferred on him to help shape the way forward for the further development of sport in Guyana.

Wilson has also demonstrated the ability to bridge the divide between the various disciplines and this, according to him, is required

from administrators who genuinely would like to see Football developed across the board.

This approach is what is missing from the current administration, and should Wilson take the reins of office on December 9, this method could prove pivotal for the transformation, success, and sustainability of the game locally.

No one could dispute the fact that FOOTBALL has disappeared locally, the fan experience has been missing and until and unless this critical component is restored, the fortune of the game here will continue to struggle.

The success of any sport must be complimented by the presence of parents and important stakeholders (e.g., lovers of sport and the corporate community), two essential ingredients for its viability, but somehow the current

administration operates with indifference towards this duo of backers.

It is not hard to see why their performance after eight years in the football office is being characterized as woeful, prompting calls for change.

The GFF has failed to incorporate the basic tenets of administration, which are collaboration, consensus, and cooperation and it comes as no surprise why many feel they will suffer the indignity of being removed from office.

A head-to-head scrutiny will show Wilson way ahead of the incumbent and this examination is what stakeholders interested in rescuing the sport should consider when making that final decision on E-day.

Name withheld.

Matthews named ICC women’s player of the month for October

CMC – Cricket’s world organising body, the ICC announced on Friday that West Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews was its Women’s Player-of-theMonth for October.

The 25-year-old all-rounder defied a shortlist that also featured Nahida Akhter of Bangladesh and Amelia Kerr of New Zealand to earn the award for her starring role in the Caribbean side’s Twenty20 International series against hosts Australia.

The top-ranked all-rounder in the Women’s T20I Player Rankings consistently thwarted the Australians with power-hitting and important wickets, and won the Player-of-the-Series

West Indies Women’s captain, Hayley Matthews

award, and was a shoo-in for her second Player-ofthe-Match prize.

“I’m very grateful to have received the ICC Women’s Player-of-theMonth award for October,” she said in the ICC media release making the announcement.

“I love pulling on the West Indies jersey. Every time I do wear that maroon and gold, it definitely adds an extra layer where you can go out there and perform well, not only for yourself and for the team, but in knowing how much cricket

means to the people of the Caribbean and how much it can bring people together.”

Matthews carried her bat and was left stranded on 99, agonisingly missing out on a hundred, and West Indies Women were swept aside by eight wickets in the first T20I against the Aussies on October 1 at North Sydney Oval.

She then slammed an incredible 132 to lead her side in the highest successful run chase of all-time in women’s T20Is against the world champions the following day.

Matthews cracked 20 fours and five sixes from 64 balls in a breath-taking assault on the Australian bowling, and the Caribbean side successfully

chased 213 to secure a seven-wicket win in the second T20I at North Sydney Oval to level the three-match series 1-1.

It came after Matthews took three for 36 from her allotted four overs with her off-spin when Australia Women piled up 212 for six after they were put in to bat and made her a straightforward choice for her seventh successive Player-of-the-Match award in T20s.

She sparkled again with 79 off 40 balls to win another Player-ofthe-Match award and end the month with 310 runs in the series at an average of 155, but West Indies Women went down by 47 runs and surrendered the series 2-1.

Needing a win to

clinch a historic series success at Allan Border Field, the Caribbean side fell short of their target of 191, dismissed for 143 off the penultimate ball of the run chase.

“It was pretty special going out there in Australia and being able to perform the way that I did, but knowing how many people’s faces I was able to put a smile on back home in the Caribbean, that’s what means the most to me,” Matthews said.

Matthews was crowned following votes cast by global fans registered at icc-cricket.com and a specialist panel comprising ICC Hall of Famers, former international players, and media representatives.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

V-Net Technologies elevates Keemo Paul to Director of Public Relations West Indies and Guyana all-rounder Keemo Paul continues to make strides off the field as he lays the early foundation for life after cricket.

Recently, his long-time supporter, V-Net Communications, who have rebranded to V-Net Technologies, elevated him from Brand Ambassador to Director of Public Relations.

According to a release from the 25 Delph Street, Campbellville company, Paul is elated to take up more responsibility in the new role.

“I consider V-Net my family; they have supported

me since inception, and the experience has been invaluable. Since officially joining the company as a Brand Ambassador in 2017, it has been extremely fulfilling”, Paul explained.

He added, “Just as with my cricket career, I want to take on new challenges, and with the company's forward trajectory, I grabbed at the opportunity to operate in this new role. I have learned a lot from playing cricket around the world, and the business of sport, and I firmly believe it will give me a unique viewpoint to promote our V-Net brand”.

V-Net Technologies has

extended a benevolent arm into the lives of many other young cricketers, especially from Essequibo, where the company has its roots in Wakenaam.

Chief Executive Officer Safraz Sheriffudeen indicated, “I have seen Keemo grow as a boy to a father and to be a critical thinker. It is a trait he showcased since his early days in the park, and I believe that his passion for the sport brought him success.”

The CEO further elaborated, “As a Brand Ambassador, Paul has given tremendous insights and a refreshed view to marketing, which has brought tremendous brand

Chief Executive Officer of V-Net Technologies, Safraz Sheriffudeen (left), hands over the new contract to Keemo Paul, the company’s new Director of Public Relations awareness. Like his quest to as we grow and form new Platform Solutions to evolve as a cricketer, I know alliances in the corporate strengthen and develop communication capabilities his passion for business de- world.”

V-Net provides viable through Connectivity and velopment. We as a company were unanimous that he was Information and commu- Smart Technologies in a the best fit for this new role nication technology (ICT) Sustainable environment.

CG super50 final free for all spectators Cricket fans will get the chance to see the final of the CG United Super50 Cup for FREE on Saturday November 11. Cricket West Indies (CWI) and sponsors, CG United, today announced there will be no charge for spectators attending the CG United Super50 Cup Final on Saturday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy between the Trinidad & Tobago

Red Force and Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

Fans will get the chance to see the two best teams in the tournament after Trinidad & Tobago Red Force beat Guyana Harpy Eagles and Leeward Islands Hurricanes beat Barbados Pride in the two semi-finals. To add to the excitement there is the incentive of seeing Sunil Narine in his final match in Trinidad & Tobago

Red Force colors. Earlier this week, the off-spinner announced that he will be retiring from List A and international cricket following the conclusion of the CG United Super50 Cup. A number of West Indies internationals will feature in the final 50-over match before England arrive for the CG United ODI Series and T20I Series starting on 3 December. The Leeward Is-

lands squad features captain Alzarri Joseph, Keacy Carty, Rahkeem Cornwall, Jahmar Hamilton, Justin Greaves, Kieran Powell, Oshane Thomas and Hayden Walsh Jr. Trinidad and Tobago Red Force team is captained by batsman Darren Bravo and their squad includes: Yannic Carriah, Shannon Gabriel, Akeal Hosein, Jason Mohammed, Sunil Narine, Joshua Da Silva, Nicholas

Pooran and Jayden Seales.

Dominic Warne, CWI’s Commercial Director said: “This is exciting news for our fans as we have opened the gates to have them enter for free and see the finale of the CG United Super50 Cup. We have seen three weeks of action on the field and we expect an exciting contest on Saturday to crown the CG United Super50 Champions. Also, this is a great

opportunity for the home Trini supporters and fans of Sunil to see him in action in his Trinidad and Tobago Red Force jersey for the final time and give him a fitting send off.”

The day/night match starts at 1pm (12 noon Jamaica) and will be televised live on ESPN. Live ball-byball scoring will be available in the windiescricket. com Match Centre.

More personalities contributing to commentators’ workshop As the Guyana Cricket Commentators Workshop draws closer, additional support in the form of working papers continues to come in from various parts of the world.

Facilitator, Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira recently received additional literature that will steer the three-day interactive sessions at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda from November 16 to 18.

Australians Tim Layne, a commentator and Ashley Gray, a writer, along with former Combined Islands and Windward Islands

batsman Julian Charles and Windward Islands commentator Claudius Emmanuel are the latest to provide pieces of information that will give participants different perspectives of cricket commentary.

The other contributors include former West Indies cricketers Richard ‘Prof ’ Edwards and Michael Findlay, along with contributions from Barbados-born England batsman Roland Butcher, former Windward Islands and Combined Islands player Lockhart Sebastian, former Jamaica cricket administra-

tor Pat Terrelonge, former Cricket West Indies Chief Executive Officer Bruce Aanensen, commentators Alexis Jordan, Colin Murray and Sunil Ramdeen and journalists Lance Whitakar, Guyanese Tony McWatt, Trinidadian Nasser Khan.

‘Reds’ also acquired a written discussion that was put out by the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (Barbados) with inputs from the late Tony Cozier and journalist Adriel ‘Woody’ Richards.

On day two, veteran broadcaster Russell Lancaster is expected to have a

voice training session with the invitees that are drawn from across Guyana.

Of the list of invitees, former international cricketers Devendra Bishoo and Christopher Barnwell and journalist Brandon Corlette have signaled their non-participation due to overseas commitments.

The invitees are; Clyde Butts, Leon Johnson, Inderjeet Persaud, Neil Barry, John Ramsingh, Matthew Kissoon, Naim Chan, Steven Jacobs, Edwin Seeraj, Sean Devers, Jonathan Foo, Avenash Ramzan, Shemroy

Barrington, Jermaine Neblett, Lennox Cush, Brandon Bess, Akeem Greene, Andy Ramnarine, Darien Best, Delwin Neblett, Rajiv Bisnauth, Shabeer Baksh and Anthony Khemraj.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Kashif Mohammad is expected to deliver a charge to the invitees and to declare the workshop open while President of the Guyana Cricket Board, Bissoondyal Singh is slated to deliver remarks at the opening session which will be chaired by veteran Business Administrator Paul

Chan-a-Sue. Perreira expects that with the widened pool of Guyanese cricket presenters, after the workshop, that more radio and television stations will include cricket coverage in their programming from 2024.

The workshop is being held under the theme, ‘taking it to another level.’ The last cricket commentators workshop was also conducted by ‘Reds’ for the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) in 1997.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 11, 2023

Limacol Schools football League

Matches continue tomorrow, Monday

Two days of intense action in the Limacol Schools Football league will commence tomorrow and head into Monday.

Four matches on each day will be played at the Ministry of Education ground each day commencing from 12:00hrs.

Ann’s Grove and East Ruimveldt kick off things from noon with Carmel Secondary and Bartica Secondary clashing at 13:30hrs.

McKenzie Secondary and Santa Rosa Secondary are scheduled to play from 15:00hrs with Christianburg/Wismar Secondary and Chase Academy set for a 16:30hrs start time.

On Monday, Anns Grove and McKenzie High clash opens the proceedings from noon with East Ruimvedlt battling Bartica Secondary at 13:30hrs.

Carmel Secondary and Chase Academy play at 15:00hrs with Christianburg/Wismar and Santa

File Photo: Action in the Petraorganised schools league Rosa rounding out the day’s play.

The tournament, which will be for a first prize of

300,000 dollars towards a project for the winning

school, will also see the top three teams advancing to

the end-of-year goodwill tournament.

van der Dussen stonewalls Afghanistan as South Africa warm up for semis SEE PAGE

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Rassie van der Dussen attempts a reverse sweep•Nov 10, 2023 (AFP/Getty Images)

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| SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023