Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 17-04-2023

Int’l lawyers interview witnesses in Guyana’s US$100M parking meter lawsuit

INTERNATIONAL LAWYERS representing Guyana in the US$100 million parking meter case brought by Smart City Solutions (SCS) were in Guyana to conduct interviews with potential witnesses.

The lawyers from the United States law firm, Foley Hoag, met with Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil

Nandlall, SC, last Thursday at his Carmichael Street, Georgetown, office.

“The lawyers were in Guyana to interview potential witnesses for the legal proceedings. In this regard, many persons who played a relevant role in the transaction were interviewed. The legal proceedings are continuing,” a release from the AG’s chambers noted.

SCS, a Mexican Com-

pany, which was contracted to establish a parking meter system in the capital city in 2016 had filed proceedings against Guyana before the International Centre for Settlement of Investments Disputes (ICSID) in Washington DC.

ICSID is an international arbitration institution established in 1966 for legal dispute resolution and conciliation between inter-

national investors and countries. ICSID is part of and funded by the World Bank Group, which is headquartered in Washington DC.

Party representatives for the claimants in the case are the law firm, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman in the United States and Fraser, Housty and Yearwood law firm in Guyana.

Meanwhile, the Government of Guyana has retained Foley Hoag and Associates, alongside the Attorney General’s Chambers.

In June 2022, Argentine international lawyer Marcelo Kohen was appointed

lace. Others argued that the awarding of the contract lacked transparency.

Public pressure forced a suspension of the project. Throughout the process, however, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), while in opposition, argued against the awarding of the contract and rolling out of the parking meter system.

The APNU+AFC was voted out of government in 2020. Patricia Chase-Green is no longer Georgetown’s Mayor, and the city’s thenTown Clerk, Royston King is also no longer in the employ of the city.

as the arbitrator for the proceedings. An arbitrator is an independent person officially appointed to settle a dispute.

It was in 2016 that City Hall, under the then Mayor Patricia Chase-Green while the APNU+AFC David Granger-led coalition government was in office, signed a contract with SCS to implement a parking meter system in Georgetown.

Installations were happening throughout the city, and staff training for the new parking meter regime.

However, the initiative faced immediate backlash and saw massive protests against its implementation.

Citizens contended then that the fees were too high and placed undue financial burden on the popu -

Nandlall had previously said that it is unfortunate that the citizens are left to deal with the consequences of decisions that were made by officials who do not have to deal with the penalties of their decision.

“It is a complete and utter waste, and unnecessary use of taxpayers’ money for a case that is due to the reckless decision that was made under the previous administration.

Those who made the decision and are responsible are no longer there to answer for the decision. But the people of Guyana now have to shoulder that burden and it’s unfortunate, but it’s the duty of our government to defend the country,” the AG related.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall and his team meeting with lawyers from the United States law firm, Foley Hoag

One of the many parking meters left abandoned in Georgetown

All set!

By Naomi Parris

ALL employees of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) are ‘set and ready’ to perform their duties as members of the country’s largest political parties and other political players prepare to submit their respective lists of candidates for the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGEs).

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, GECOM’s Public Relations Officer, Yolanda Ward, said that 80 offices have been established for GECOM officers countrywide.

“Staff are all set and ready for the of-

hiccups today

smoothly

fices to be opened on time to receive the lists of candidates from 10:00hrs. All the administrative sets and procedures that have to be done, the staff are fully knowledgeable and are prepared to execute their functions to the best of their professionalism.”

With confidence in the staff, Ward does not anticipate any major hiccups.

“From where we sit, we anticipate a

contesting the elections, will be required to submit their lists of candidates to the office of the returning officer in their respective local authority areas in which they wish to contest.

In a previous report, Ward had said that there will be a series of statutory procedures that will follow after Nomination Day, including the examination of the lists of candidates to ensure that they all

PARADES AND CAMPAIGN

Meanwhile, several political parties have signalled for supporters to join them in parades across several local authority areas as they march to submit their lists and launch their respective campaigns.

During an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle, Zaman Shaw, the Vice-Chairman from Better Hope, East Coast of Demerara Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), disclosed that plans are in place for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to host a parade for its Better Hope – La Bonne Intention (LBI) constituents.

The candidates in this area will also launch their campaigns to advocate for their communities.

“We are very ready, everything is in place, we have a list that is prepared [and] candidates are ready. We have a parade that will start at 09:00hrs and we will go to the RO’s [returning officer’s] office after which we will have a debriefing session.”

JUNE 12

Guyanese have been anticipating the hosting of LGEs for some time now. It is at the LGEs that Guyanese are given the opportunity to vote for the councillors that will constitute their Local Authority Areas (LAAs). Guyana has 70 NDCs and 10 municipalities, inclusive of Georgetown.

LGEs were legally due in 2021, and the funds were budgeted to facilitate this; however, several issues facing GECOM at the time prevented the holding of the elections, including the non-appointment of a Chief Election Officer (CEO).

the earliest date for the holding of LGEs. The minister subsequently appointed this date for LGEs, with Nomination Day set for December 12, 2022.

This decision was, however, postponed after GECOM ratified a proposal submitted by Persaud for the hosting of another round of “claims and objections” for a new Register of Voters to be produced.

smooth day across the country. I don’t anticipate any hiccups at this point,” the Public Relations Officer said.

On Nomination Day, political parties, voluntary groups and individual candidates

meet the set criteria according to the law.

During this period persons will be given a timeframe to correct any defects that their lists might have and resubmit them to the office of the returning officer.

In February, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall wrote to GECOM Chairperson Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, appointing June 12, 2023 as the date for conduct of the polls.

The date was chosen based on the work plan that was submitted by GECOM to the minister.

The LGEs could not be held in the absence of a CEO, a position which was later filled by Vishnu Persaud in December 2021.

With the appointment of a CEO, preparation for the conduct of LGEs had commenced in 2022, and last October, the GECOM Chair wrote Minister Dharamlall, naming March 13 as

As part of the government’s commitment, some $2.9 billion has been allocated to GECOM for preparatory works to ensure the successful planning and execution of the elections.

The local government system is an essential part of the country’s governance framework. The election is contested by political parties, voluntary groups, and individuals who are desirous of winning seats on the councils of the NDC and municipalities.

GECOM foresees no major

- staff in place to ensure process goes

The lists of voters are posted at various sites across the country

GECOM Public Relations Officer (PRO), Yolanda Ward

Milk parlours to be constructed in Regions 4, 5 & 6

THE Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has opened bids for the construction of three milk parlours in Regions Four, Five and Six.

According to an Invitation For Bids (IFB) issued by GLDA and published by several print and online media platforms, reputable contractors are being sought for construction of these facilities in the communities of Mon Repos, Mahaicony and Tarlogie.

Bids for the project are to be submitted no

later than May 4, 2023 at the Ministerial Tender Board located at the Ministry of Agriculture’s Regent Street office.

A pre-bidding exercise will be held on April 26 at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority’s office, Mon Repos.

No estimated cost for the project has yet been released; however, some $33.2 billion was allocated to the ministry for the roll out of its 2023 work programme.

In his budget presentation to the National Assembly in February,

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, had said much focus will be placed on advancing the country’s livestock industries.

The Finance Minister said: “[The] Livestock sector is vital to govern-

ing demand for animalsourced food products both locally and internationally, the livestock sector is poised for further expansion, which can simultaneously bring economic value to underutilised pasture lands, while creating further avenues for investment, employment and bolster farm household incomes.”

To this end, Dr Singh said the government will continue to support the

industry by undertaking investments to help improve the quality of milk and milk products through better sanitation and hygiene practices, improve mutton variety and production, establish a bio-secured small ruminant breeding facility and invest in a broiler breeder facility which will reduce dependency on importation of hatching eggs.

ment’s plans for enhanced food security, sustainable economic growth, and enhanced farm incomes. With high and grow -

Bandits drop ‘toy gun’ after robbing Berbice money changer

POLICE are currently on the hunt for two men who used a ‘toy gun’ to rob a 24-year-old money changer at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice on Saturday.

According to a police press release, on the day in question at about 08:00 hours, the victim was conducting business on the

a ‘gun’ from his waist and pointed at him,” the release noted.

The men robbed the victim of $70,000 and escaped through a nearby street. Public spirited persons raised an alarm and a traffic officer who was performing duties intervened.

“He enquired from the persons on the road as to

Rose Hall Town public road as per usual.

However, at about 09:36 hours, he saw two identifiable men walking towards him. The shorter of the two men scrambled his jersey, took out a knife from the waist of his pants, and demanded that the money changer hand over the cash.

“The victim said he ‘put up a fight’, after which the second suspect pulled out

what happened, and the onlookers pointed out to him two identifiable men. The rank approached the men and whilst doing so one of the suspects who was holding what appeared to be a firearm, dropped it on the roadway and ran through a nearby street,” the press release noted.

The suspected firearm was later examined and found to be a ‘toy gun’.

The toy gun used to execute the robbery

Regional health sector boosted as 64 persons graduate from capacity-building programme

SOME 64 clinical and public health practitioners from across the Caribbean are now holders of certificates in healthcare, enabling them to better contribute to the Caribbean’s developing health sector.

The three-month course saw persons instructed in either Leadership and Management in Health, or Policy Development and Advocacy for Global Health, both done at the University of Washington.

Vishal Joseph, a medi-

context, as we evolve, as our President places increased emphasis on the development of the healthcare sector, and we broaden the services, there is an increased need for management and there must be leadership and vision. Under the stewardship of the Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, we have made significant strides in the health sector, but I think that he needs support as we continue to expand all the work that the government is doing.”

Another graduate,

help to impact someone’s life possibly and look at their strengths. I think that having that skill is quite useful in the health system. In this system, we need to train persons

training will assist him in advancing work on the mental health platform. He explained, “In the Caribbean, one of the silent pandemics is mental health, and we need to sit

this charge.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony said the government aims to establish Guyana as a hub for training in the Caribbean, as investing in human resources and building human capacity remain paramount to the PPP/C development agenda. “The reason why we want so many people trained is because we are expanding the health sector,” he reiterated.

Several hospitals are now under construction as a representation of the government’s charge to expand and strengthen Guyana’s health sector. The minister said that, in addition to strengthening the country’s human

resources, the building of infrastructure for the delivery of quality health services is also critical.

“A lot of work is going to be done and what you will see is a transformation in the next couple of years of the health sector,” he added.

The PAN Caribbean Partnership against HIV/AIDS (PANCAP) is a coagulation of government, regional civil society organisations, regional institutions and organisations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, and contributing donor partners, established to accelerate and coordinate a regional response to HIV/ AIDS. (DPI)

cal intern attached to the New Amsterdam hospital, who received his certificate in Leadership and Management in Health, said his training has helped to highlight the importance of leadership, especially as Guyana’s health sector expands.

He said, “I think that, within the Guyana

Caryl Chester-Welch, an administrative officer under the Global Fund Health Project, related that the training was impactful in outlining the key differences between leadership and management in the sector.

She said, “One of the key takeaways for me is that being a leader, you

in order to have them become future leaders who can manage a health system to be of service to all,”

Meanwhile, Telford Layne, a developmental psychologist and now the holder of a certificate in Policy Development and Advocacy for Global Health, noted that the

with other stakeholders to come up with certain policies so that these persons can be taken care of.”

The capacity-building initiative, funded by USAID is part of an overarching strategy of strengthening the region’s response to HIV/AIDS, as well as maintaining the progress already made in

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony (seated front), and other officials surrounded by graduates of the programme (Delano Williams photo)

Vishal Joseph Caryl Chester-Welch Telford Layne

Silence in the Camp

TODAY, parties, aspiring leaders, groups and other interested persons will submit their lists of candidates to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for approval to contest the June 12 Local Government Elections (LGEs).

There is no guarantee that the persons who submit their lists will be the ones contesting the elections, but the citizens will have an idea of who are the stakeholders interested in leading the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and municipalities.

Already, the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has established its intention

to contest all 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs). However, there has been notable silence in the camp of the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

The deafening silence could mean many things, but a large section of the population shares the view that the party has no solid plan heading into these important elections.

It goes without question that this process is part of preserving local democracy and ensuring that there is effective leadership at every level of governance.

Despite the significance of Local Government Elections, APNU, which is al-

ready on the radar for its questionable actions during the 2020 general and regional elections, seems uninterested in connecting with the people at the grassroots level and restoring any resemble of credibility to the party.

The party seems more interested in delaying the process by making claims that have been factually rejected time and again.

Owing to its actions, its is clear that APNU is mortally afraid of losing its foothold in known stronghold areas, where the PPP/C has been making inroads through inclusive policies and projects.

Evidence of the opposition’s diminishing support

are the results of the 2016 and 2018 LGEs. There are even signs in the city that persons are tired of the ineffective APNU-led Mayor and City Council (M&CC), but time will be the true judge.

The mismanagement of the municipality’s funds has become commonplace. The lack of accountability and transparency at City Hall makes it impractical for Central Government to continue directly handing over money to the municipality.

The upcoming LGE presents an opportunity for Georgetown citizens to choose a party that prioritises accountability and transparency in governance, with the hope of a

better future for the municipality.

The PPP/C has been seeing a huge influx of persons wanting to join ahead of the LGE, and as such, is not only confident of its chances in its customary strongholds, but is optimistic of even making inroads in some of the opposition’s hotspots such as Georgetown.

“We will fight a hard campaign in every single one of these areas. There are some areas where we have never won, and we are hoping, politically, that the people will give us an opportunity to prove we can,” General Secretary of the PPP/C, Bharrat Jagdeo had said.

According to Jagdeo, should Georgetown citizens put their trust in the PPP/C, they can expect greater accountability at the City Council, and better stewardship of the municipality’s funds, which would support an increased flow of revenue.

“Right now, there’s no accountability there; you give them money for one thing, and they spend it on something else,” Jagdeo lamented.

So, while one camp remains silent, the PPP/C despite its confidence, will not be taking an easy win for granted, and is still looking to hit the ground running during this campaign season.

We keep asking for O&G audits, but why not audits of the City Council?

Dear Editor, ONCE again, the Georgetown Municipality is in the news and once more for the most dishonorable and ignominious reasons. This time the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has been called in to investigate a conspiracy allegedly involving staffers of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, some councillors and a contractor,

to defraud the city of well over a hundred million dollars.

As the story goes a contractor who was hired way back in 2015 to execute works such as weeding parapets, racking up debris, desilting alleyways and street drains, clearing empty lots, cutting down trees, and painting tree trunks and lanterns was found to be attempting to double dip. And this is for

no small change but rather a whopping $127 million.

A number of glaring questions immediately come to mind which I hope that SOCU will be asking of them.

First, were these works that were purportedly done, approved by the council, prior to them being executed?

Second, were these works budgeted for by the council?

Third, why are these works not being done by the nearly 1,000 strong work force of the municipality instead of being farmed out for exorbitant sums?

Fourth, why did the Council’s Internal Auditor and the internal audit department fail to detect these and so many other scams within the council? What are they being paid for?

Fifth, why is the pre-

sent council pressing for an additional 25 per cent to be paid urgently when the contractor was already paid?

Sixth, is this the only contractor seeking to double dip? Or are there more?

But the big question is when will this nonsense come to an end?

When will the residents be relieved of this albatross around their necks?

Will this latest scam see

the prosecution of anyone or will it be swept under the carpet like so many others that we have heard of? When will there be a thorough and comprehensive audit of the Georgetown City Council be carried out? We keep asking for audits in the oil and gas industry why not of the capital city of Guyana?

Yours respectfully, Riley Matthews

Guyanese female entrepreneurs head to the US for four-day business-exchange programme

SEVERAL female entrepreneurs from Guyana have been selected to participate in a four-day Women in Business Trade Exchange Programme in New Orleans, Louisiana, organised by the Louisiana District Export Council, Jones Walker LLP, and Techniques International.

The event, called “Advancing Women in Business,” is a reverse trade exchange and aims to provide women with an opportunity to experience a trade mission from a different perspective, as typically trade missions come from other countries into Guyana.

The women participating are Rowena Elliot, President of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Arifa Mohamed, Business Development Manager, Social Rank Media/ACE Con-

sultancy; Ulex Smith – CEO/Owner, Signature Move Marketing Agency; Donna Rickford, CEO/Owner, Supreme Laundromat and Office Cleaning Services.

Dr Melissa Varswyk, Co-Founder and CEO, Georgetown American University; Beverly Whittaker, Associate Manager, Global Logistics and Business Services Inc; Nicola Whittaker, President/CEO, Global Logistics and Business Services Inc; Josephine Tapp, Managing Director, B&J Civil Works; and Anita Ramprasad, Founder/CEO, Prestige Management Consultant, are also a part of the delegation.

This delegation was selected after an invitation was sent to business chambers countrywide with the hope of attracting nominees from women-owned and operated businesses; the women are slated to depart Guyana on Tuesday.

The programme, which runs from April 19-22, will include various business-building sessions, business meetings, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities that could help the participants develop their businesses.

The women represent various sectors such as logistics, marketing, consultancy, and construction, and they will also hold discussions with US leaders and stakeholders on business opportunities in Guyana.

Director of Communications for the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana, Anita Rampersad, said this is the first women-in-business trade exchange.

“It is a reverse trade exchange. Typically, trade missions come from other countries into Guyana, and they are hosted by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, the United States Embassy or through a government ministry. It allows businesses to participate in various business-building sessions,” she said.

Rampersaud stressed that the businessleadership exchange is somewhat different, as it focuses primarily on women.

“Through a collaboration with the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana, our partners in Louisiana reached out and planned the event that will afford women the opportunity to travel, sit and experience a trade mission from a different perspective,” she added.

She said that the women participating in the trade exchange represent various sectors, among them, logistics, marketing, consultancy and construction.

“Each of these women is at a point in their business life where they are looking to do what they now do better; expand, grow or leverage what they have, to venture into something new,” Rampersaud said.

The exchange programme will see the group participate in business meetings, round table discussions and networking opportunities that could further develop their businesses. The delegation will also hold discussions with US leaders and stakeholders on business opportunities in Guyana.

The Caribbean a gangster’s paradise?

Part 4: The harder they come…

By Earl Bousquet

LOVE for guns and gangs has been a part of Caribbean culture from colonial times when the British West Indies saw ‘toy gun’ sales peak at Christmas and groups of students from neighbouring schools

developed rivalries over everything from games results to crossing pathways considered school turf.

Back then, toy shops sold ‘Amos Guns’ made from tin that sparked an explosiveladen tape to look and sound like real bullets, as well as plastic ‘Water Guns’ to aim and squirt at friends and ‘Dai-

sy Guns’ to hunt, aim at and shoot birds – in all three cases introducing a gun culture through toys.

And while students were attracted to turf wars according to schools and uniforms, the gang culture was unknowingly taking shape.

That was back in the 60s. Fast-forward to 1972 and

Jimmy Cliff’s hit movie ‘The Harder They Come’ (from his hit song by the same name) draws the support and admiration of Caribbean people at home and abroad, more as an appreciation of its representation of Caribbean performance ability than admiration of the gang culture behind the story.

Fifty years later, the gang culture is a real part of Caribbean life, but largely being treated as something new when all that’s new is the way it’s become engrained in every Caribbean State and territory, including the nonindependent British, Dutch, French and American colonies in the lengthy chain of hundreds of islands and islets, as well as on the South American mainland.

Caribbean gang crime today ranges from the savagery of slayings and driveby shootings to proliferation of guns for drugs across borders and continents, with US, British, French and Dutch navies often reporting huge findings of illegal shipments on vessels or dumped at sea involving Caribbean gangs and their South American counterparts.

The more sophisticated Caribbean gangs are also being accused of facilitating human trafficking from Cuba, Venezuela and Haiti through regional networks to the US through South America, including Guyana, while commercial sector shippers of humans also count on the organised gangs to transport and transfer Asian migrants through Caribbean routes.

Regional media houses pander to people’s fears and insecurities by fanning and feeding them for ratings, without concern about the long-term consequences of building societies scared (by the media also) into silence by violence.

Media houses across the region still lazily and insensitively seek-out comments from grieving parents and relatives within minutes or hours after a killing, only to ask “How do you feel?” and/or “Was he good or bad to you?”, rather than engage

in investigative research to put the killings in a wider national context -- and to include reports with suggestions for solutions, instead of watering sobs and grating broken hearts.

More people still die of non-violent causes, but it’s the killings and comparable ‘homicide rates’ that become the news focus, instead of also examining the causes of non-violent deaths, which leave victims’ families grieving no-less.

But here again, the focus is on the gunplay and the victims instead of community and the country, on cemeteries getting filled and not on the related community-reluctance crises facing governments to build new cemeteries.

We continue to highlight and discuss the number of dead daily, instead of the number of babies born, assessing the populationgrowth consequences and whether enough is being done today to secure tomorrow and a safer future for today’s newborns.

Gun crime also survives on the societal mistrust in the ability of national police forces to tackle today’s more sophisticated crimes, including use of hi-tech and IT means to facilitate what used to be classified as ‘Blue Collar’ and ‘White Collar’ crimes.

Except when forced to by public concern, Governments don’t act in unison to upgrade the abilities of their national police forces to match the sophistry of the criminal networks, many of which grew out of historical ‘naughty neighbourhoods’, but also now employ IT support in their qualitatively-upgraded criminal endeavours.

Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) President, Dr Hyginus ‘Gene’ Leon, in March, advised the Regional Security System (RSS) to revisit its methods by adopting more “regional approaches” that are outside the proverbial box, but within the region’s reach.

Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, says

governments can start by tightening gun laws at home and working harder together to effectively fight the continuing unbridled proliferation and circulation of mainly US-made illegal firearms across the wider Caribbean and South American region. The continuing unbridled entry of arms made in the USA, including through air and sea ports, require much higher levels of cooperation -- with the Caribbean -- on the part of the US, UK, Canada, France, The Netherlands and others involved in similar but separate operations against smuggling and trafficking of guns, drugs and people.

One aspect of the gang warfare that pleases the police and government security apparatus is the acceleration of the process of attrition, but even here, the collateral cost in innocent or non-involved lives is always too much.

In the circumstances, while gangsters are bold enough in some instances to aggressively confront government ministers and make illegal firearms available or accessible to children or teens too young to be safe with loaded guns, governments are also coming to grips with and accepting the fact that in many cases, gang leaders and gangsters do have levels of covert protection and collusion with minority elements at different levels of police forces, who provide major support for their national and trans-border crimes.

Of course, all of the above is known but only spoken of in whispers as fear of reprisals continues to haunt and dissuade those who know from cooperating with investigators, many also pointing to unavailability of appropriate rewards, or guaranteed witness protection.

Meanwhile, 50 years after Jimmy Cliff’s classic thriller, he’s still also singing today for world peace and unity, while the gangsters miss the main message from his song and movie: ‘The harder they come, the harder they fall, one and all!’

‘Span Nine’ to be installed soon at Harbour Bridge

THE Demerara Harbour Bridge’s (DHB) ‘span nine’ which is valued at $1.2 billion will be transported from the dockyard to the bridge for installation soon.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, made the announcement on Friday last, when he handed over the new self-loading machine and power barge to the DHB.

The new retractor spanning 170 feet long and 40

feet wide was undertaken by local company, Industrial Fabrications Inc (InFab), and was completed in 2022 and will enhance the DHB’s retraction operation by enabling wider vessels to pass.

Minister Edghill said the new retractor has been successfully completed and the team is awaiting the next suitable tide to replace the span.

“We are looking at timings, tide, and least interruptions. There have been

rehearsals that have been done with both the contractor, and the Demerara Harbour Bridge staff to ensure that we can get this done swiftly,” Minister Edghill stated.

The replacement of span nine is a massive undertaking that cannot be done while traffic is flowing. The removal of the existing span will leave a significant gap on the bridge.

Therefore, it is imperative that everything

Truck driver murdered, others robbed by bandits in Eccles

POLICE are on the hunt for four bandits who fatally stabbed 45-yearold truck driver, Kerry Sears and robbed several others at Dump Site Road Eccles, East Bank Demerara on Saturday night.

Police Headquarters

signalled for them to stop.

The driver said he stopped and both men parked their canters and exited; they were all conversing on the roadway when it is alleged that the four bandits rode up on two motorcycles and confronted them with the gun.

reportedly ran through a street on the northern side of Dump Site Road, where he collapsed; the perpetrators then escaped.

The police and ambulance service were summoned to the scene and Sears was pronounced dead by Doctor Wicket.

is done correctly and that the replacement process is executed flawlessly.

Once replaced, citizens will be able to see an enhanced retraction operation with a wider capacity to move vessels through the bridge.

The ministry will be utilising the newly commissioned power barge to transport citizens from the east to the west side during the replacement operation. (DPI)

reported that Sears left his workplace headquarters at Herstelling in GYY 2428 to do company business at Sarah Johanna, EBD at around 18:00 hours. Thereafter, he was to proceed back to the company’s headquarters to conclude his duty for the day.

Another 45-year-old driver of another company told investigators that he and other workers were heading back to their company’s parking lot at Eccles when Sears

A 22-year-old porter of Industrial Site, Eccles was relieved of one cellular phone valued at $25,000 and $16,000 cash; a 19-year-old, who is also from Industrial Site, was relieved of a cellular phone valued at $30,000, and one silver band valued at $5,000 cash.

It is alleged that Sears got into a confrontation with one of the perpetrators when he was stabbed to the chest.

Police said that Sears

The body was examined and a stab wound was seen on the chest area. The body was taken to Memorial Gardens Funeral Parlour and placed into cold storage awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Several persons were contacted and interviewed, including the driver and other occupants of the canter who related their stories. They are presently in police custody assisting with the investigation.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and other officials at the Demerara Harbour Bridge

First responders at the Dump Site Road Eccles scene (News Source photo)

New digital interface for iMatter app

By Cassandra Khan

A NEW digital interface was launched on Saturday for the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s iMatter mobile application which provides the 914 hotline at one’s fingertips.

‘Help Bot,’ created by Maryam Bacchus, is a chatbot on WhatsApp that can be contacted via 654-5685.

Bacchus, who spoke at the ministry’s WE LIFT 3 expo on Saturday, said that she created Help Bot to fill some gaps of the iMatter app, such as not being accessible to persons who are blind or unable to hear and to those unable to read or write.

“Help Bot caters for those that can’t read or write, persons who cannot talk or see. There are buttons that you don’t even need to type,” she explained.

Bacchus added: “Help Bot is a revolutionary new tool that brings out the full potential of chatbot and WhatsApp. It is the first of its kind and it is fully accessible and addresses all the problems just listed.”

Help Bot can be accessed by texting the said number on WhatsApp, it then collects your phone number and in cases of emergencies, a person can send their live location as well.

Respondents on their end will see a map created showing where persons need help. They can also state whether an issue has been resolved or is pending.

Another additional benefit of Help Bot is the safety watchlist choice. According to Bacchus, if someone knows they are in dan-

ger, they can then sign up to be on the ministry’s watchlist.

“So, when you make a report, the number that the report was made on is connected to your information so that we can know exactly who made the report,” she explained.

This provides the respondent with access to not just the number and location of the person seeking help, but also their name, address and an emergency contact.

The iMatter app was made available on Google Play and Apple stores in March 2021 at the first WE LIFT event to allow abused people to easily access help and resources.

“The App is part of the continuing work we are doing to tackle domestic violence. I wanted to ensure that persons out there have multiple ways to reach our help, and putting the panic button in the App was something I insisted on.

“I encourage people to have every member of their family download the ‘iMatter App’. Let’s save lives and stop the violence!”, the Human Services Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud had stated.

This technological development is a collaborative effort between the ministry and the Spotlight Initiative,

a European UnionUnited Nations global partnership to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

The app can be found by searching iMatter on Android or iMattergy on IOS. After downloading from your app store, simply select the region you live in to get started for educational information on gender-based violence, and to find support services for you or someone you know who is affected by violence.

The categories that can be selected include: Sexual violence and disability; sexual exploitation and abuse; trafficking in persons; domestic violence; child abuse; and elderly abuse. The application also contains useful resources and answers to frequently asked questions that would help users understand more about gender-based violence.

Dedicated genderbased violence case workers assigned to the gender-based violence technological platform will respond by reaching out to a gender-based violence survivor or individual at risk via the communication channel that the individual has expressed a preference for.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, proudly displays the mobile application ‘iMatter’, which allows users to access help and information on gender-based violence

Speeding Presidential Guard dies in accident, another seriously injured

A 24-year-old Presidential Guard died in an accident on Sunday morning when he lost control and crashed into an electrical pole before ending up in a nearby trench at Coverden, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Dead is Avandel Kevin Narine, a Police Corporal stationed at President Guard (PG) and attached to Castellani House, who was driving a silver-grey Landcruiser

son, a 22-year-old of Kitty, Georgetown.

Police Headquarters reported that the Landcruiser was speeding south along the eastern side of the public road when the driver overtook several vehicles; he lost control and collided with a lamppost situated on the western side of the road, and the vehicle ended up in a trench on the western side of the road.

Corporal Narine was pronounced dead at the hospital, and Atkinson was transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for further treatment; the two other occupants were discharged.

Corporal Narine’s body was transported to Memorial Gardens Funeral Home for storage.

Following the fatal accident, Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag.) Calvin Brutus; Head of the Presidential Guard, Assistant Commissioner Edgar Thomas, and the Force’s Welfare Officer, Allison Moore, visited Narine’s grieving family to express their condolences.

Jeep, owned by Anter Narine of Alma Avenue, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown.

Three other persons were inside the vehicle at the time; they have been identified as Arvin Enouch, a 24-year-old from Good Hope, East Coast Demerara; Marcia Dundas, a 23-year-old from Old Road, Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara and Cassie Atkin-

“As a result of the collision, the vehicle received extensive damage and the driver had to be taken out of the vehicle by the Police and public-spirited citizens in an unconscious condition, along with the other occupants and escorted to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, East Bank Demerara,” the Police press release noted.

Dead: Presidential Guard, Avandel Kevin Narine

The Landcruiser Jeep following the accident

Hybrid swine production to be increased at Ann’s Grove

- other infrastructural, extension services to be improved, says Agriculture Minister

PLANS are underway to increase hybrid swine production at Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara and several other communities along that corridor.

This was disclosed, on Saturday, by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha who, at the time, was engaging cash crop and livestock farmers during a cabinet outreach in the community.

“In Ann’s Grove, we have been working very closely with the farmers…

This government works every single day in every part of this country; we are working to ensure that we bring relief to the people of our country,” he said adding, “Last year alone, we would have produced 4,735 hybrids of swine in this area. These are the things that we are work-

ing with farmers overtime.”

Meanwhile, residents expressed concern at the lack of extension services for farmers in the community.

One farmer, Errol Nedd, shared that previously farmers in the community would get frequent visits from extension officers, vets and other officials attached to the ministry.

But he noted that that had decreased over the last few years. “I grew seeing extension officers coming into the village; I got involved in agriculture because of the extension officers and for some reason I don’t see many nowadays,” the man bemoaned.

Responding to the farmer, Mustapha assured that extension services will ramp up in the community in order

to establish a relationship between farmers and the agriculture ministry.

Currently, several extension officers have been assigned to work with farmers along the East Coast corridor as the ministry looks to revamp its extension services which will see farmers countrywide benefitting from effective government services, programmes and initiatives to improve productivity in the sector.

Meanwhile, as part of efforts to address several other concerns, steps will be taken to stop the spraying of chemicals in the canals and there will be improvement in relation to a number of agriculture infrastructure within the community.

“I am willing to work along with you as what we

have been doing across the country. We have high-value crop. We can work with the young people in your community to realise the dream, both in the high-value crops, and livestock production. So, let’s form that team and work together,” Mustapha told the gathering.

As it relates to cash-crop farmers and agro-processors

in the community, Mustapha disclosed that works are underway for the construction of an agro-processing plant at Hope Village. Once completed, this facility will see many farmers being able to add value to their produce and will provide agro-processors along the east coast corridor with easy access to the necessary tools needed to

improve their products and businesses.

“By the end of this year, we will commission more than 30 agro-processing facilities across this country. And the closest one will be at the Hope Estate. I am inviting you so that we can take on the farmers from Ann’s Grove to use that facility.”

No firm decision made on local refinery - VP Jagdeo

NO decision has been made by the government as yet to establish a modular oil refinery in Guyana.

On Thursday last, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, noted that while the government has received a number of offers during a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued last year, nothing definitive has been decided as yet.

“On the oil refinery, we have not made a decision as to whether we will go with the project as yet. We have had a number of offers in. Frankly speaking, I did not pay too much attention to this, but we have not made a decision at the policymaking level as to whether we go with the project and if so with whom and much less on who will manage it. So, no firm decision has been made,” Dr. Jagdeo explained during a press conference

held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

It was late last year, after the significant interest being shown, the government had issued the RFP for interested parties to design, finance, and construct a 30,000 barrel per day, (b/d) oil refinery to be built in the vicinity of Crab Island in Berbice.

An oil refinery is an industrial processing plant where crude oil is transformed and refined into useable products, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other fuel oils and products.

There has been growing support for Guyana to have its own refinery; the private sector has been lobbying for a modular refinery for some time now. A modular refinery is a simplified refinery that is less capital- intensive when compared with the traditional full-scale refineries.

The government’s decision to finally consider the creation of a local refinery was based on the goal of building national energy security. President Dr. Irfaan Ali had agreed that the refinery would most likely be a modular one.

Dr. Jagdeo had noted that the government will be working along with the one successful bidder with an agreement to provide land and concessions, and the limited amount of crude.

The refinery will not be limited to selling fuel to the government, and will be allowed to sell locally or export, provided the price is competitive. However, having the local refinery will provide the government with options of guaranteeing local provision of refined products, in the case of global supply plights.

Agriculture Minister Mustapha interacting with farmers at the outreach on Saturday (Ministry of Agriculture photo)

WE LIFT 3 surpasses expectations

By Faith Greene

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has this year outdone itself, by creating an exhibition where over 200 women have been able to come out and showcase their businesses.

The two-day exhibition, held at the MovieTowne parking lot, Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, was packed with women-owned businesses at every turn.

Present at the second and final day of the event was Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who said that the exhibition has surpassed expectations, not only because of the number of people but because of the quality of the products on display.

She commended the businesswomen for their excellent work as she aims to push them in the right direction, “Not only into entrepreneurship, but looking at the markets, looking at packaging, looking at all of the things that will lead them to an established successful business.”

According to Minister Persaud, women have travelled from many different regions to participate in the exhibition.

“Today, I discovered that somebody from Region One is here. So, when you are thinking that it’s maybe just the coastal region, it’s really not. It’s good to see that. One of the ladies came up to me and said that what she liked about the vibe here is that it’s so supportive. Women are networking, women are supporting each other, and people are just amazed at what they are finding here.

“I don’t think people realise how many products there were, being produced by women in Guyana. And a lot of these women transition to, and will transition to the WIIN App that the ministry has done. And this gives them a free advertising platform.”

Minister Persaud is amazed at the huge turnout this year, noting that maybe bigger space will be needed next year.

Meanwhile, also speaking with the Guyana Chronicle were a few business owners who participated in the event for the first time.

A representative from the Nanny Care agency

eagerly explained that the company provides nannies and other professionals to come to your home. She said the nannies are all trained in first aid and they also have child care training.

They also provide parttime nannies for those who may need a nanny from two to even 24 hours.

“So, we have a handful right now but it’s a bless-

ing. Its honestly a blessing to come out into the open for the first time.”

Nekita, owner of Chic Ever After, also shared that her experience has been wonderful. Nekita said she was able to meet other women in business and has learned a lot as a business owner.

“It’s a transitional experience. We learned about each other’s business and

that has given me so much insight as a business owner. I really love the experience and I’m thankful for that.”

The owner of ‘The Handmade by Hema’ shared that the company specialises in handmade crafts.

“So, I made handmade cards, bookmarks, paper flowers, et cetera. They’re all customised. So, if you have any special moment

that you’d like to capture in a card. It’s always safe with a card.”

Natasha Azeez, founder of Customised Creations, shared that her products are all customised.

Azeez explained that customers can have anything they want on their items, from names, to pictures for any occasion. She added that they also provide branding services as well

as signage.

“Business cards, flyers, everything. As long as you can dream of it, we help you to make it a reality, as our tagline says.”

The ‘WE LIFT 3’ exhibition is the biggest women’s business expo in Guyana, and the number of women participating has increased tremendously over the past three years.

This year’s WE LIFT 3 saw a massive turn out of women-owned businesses (Photos: Adrian Narine)

EPA in final stages of concluding parent guarantee for potential oil spill - Jagdeo

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is in the final stages of concluding the parent guarantee from the operator of the Stabroek Block to fully cover expenses incurred in any eventuality of an oil spill offshore.

This is according to Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who, during a press conference on Thursday last, related that the matter is expected to be resolved within a few weeks.

“I spoke with the EPA before I came here and so they said they’re in the final stages of concluding the parent guarantee. So, they are working on it and I anticipate it will be a matter of weeks before they conclude but they said to me they’re almost finalised,” Dr. Jagdeo explained.

“I don’t want to put

any pressure because, at the technical level, I don’t want them to say I’m pushing artificial deadlines on them and they didn’t get that chance at a technical level to go through it carefully. So, I’m not putting any deadline on them but they said to me they are a matter of weeks away from getting the parent guarantee.”

A parent company guarantee (PCG) is a contract between a company and its client to ensure a performance requirement is met. These agreements are used when a contractor or subsidiary enter into a contract with clients. The expectations outlined in this guarantee are detailed by the parent company. The document that outlines a parent company guarantee should clearly state that the parent company is only

held liable if the contractor or subsidiary company is in breach of the contract and fails to correct the breach in question.

The environmental permit granted to the oil and gas operators provides that holders are liable for the full extent of any environmental damage caused, and cleaning up needed, for any oil spill that may occur.

Dr. Jagdeo noted that concerns by the operators as it pertains to who gets to determine the validity of damages claimed as a result of an oil spill is being worked out.

“That’s one of the last issues on this parent guarantee resolution that they are going to resolve shortly,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

The Vice President noted that while the oil company is opposed to

the government being the final adjudicator of which claims are valid and which are not, vice versa, the government is not comfortable with the oil company having the final say.

“We don’t believe that Exxon should decide on the eligibility but they are saying we can’t also decide. So, you probably

have to find an intermediate step to make sure that it’s assessed and with a party that both sides are comfortable with. So that is a critical issue for us,” Dr. Jagdeo noted.

Currently, each oil production project being developed offshore by Exxon Mobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Pro-

duction Guyana Limited (EEPGL), has oil spill insurance coverage of up to US$600 million per event, while the full liability is supposed to be backed by Exxon’s parent company guarantee.

The EPA has been working with the operators to secure the parent guarantee. The Stabroek Block is owned by Exxon and its partners Hess and CNOOC.

However, Dr. Jagdeo noted in the past that Guyana has the necessary capabilities to deal with a potential oil spill from offshore the oil and gas production.

Aside from the US$600 million insurance, the company also has over US$6 billion in assets in the country that can be used to cover required finances.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

BIT to launch training programmes in Ann’s Grove soon

WOMEN of Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara, were, on Saturday, encouraged to make use of the opportunities of hard-skill training programmes offered free of cost by the government, due to the demand for labour in the various sectors.

These programmes include welding and fabrication, electrical installation, and heavy-duty equipment operation, among others.

During a ministerial outreach in the community on Saturday, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, highlighted that government was in contact with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to develop a programme to launch technical and vocational training programmes there in a few months.

Minister Hamilton said, “What we are attempting to do is to have women participate in

hard-skill training programmes…So, that is our focus. There are only so much male technicians you would want to have. The areas of development, that is where women should focus and that is the type of programmes that I want to bring to Ann’s Grove and all of the villages on the East Coast.”

This will help them to enhance their knowledge while uplifting their livelihoods to earn an income by being employed or becoming entrepreneurs.

Many women from across the country have benefitted from several training programmes offered by BIT which have improved their lives. Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips underscored the importance of young people participating in the training programmes offered by government due to the many opportunities

and demand for skilled labour in the various sectors.

“The reality is that we have a lot of investments coming to Guyana, not only in oil and gas, in the mining and construction sectors, and small industries. As we com-

plete the gas-to-shore project and electricity becomes fairly cheap in Guyana, more investors will come to set up businesses in Guyana. So, there will be an increase in the demand for semi-skilled and skilled labour in Guyana,” PM

Phillips emphasised. Resident, Latoya Stanford-Williams, said that there was a great need for young people in the community to be involved in entrepreneurship. She added that capital was a major issue for many to set up busi-

nesses.

Williams expressed that capital will help to offset their expenses. Some of the ministers will be revisiting the community soon to provide solutions to the issues raised during the meeting. (DPI)

A section of the gathering during the meeting at Ann’s Grove (Delano Williams photo)

Dispute resolutions to be strengthened for cost oil recovery in new PSA

VICE PRESIDENT, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, believes that there is need to strengthen the dispute resolution process through which Guyana would appeal for unjustified cost oil expenses to be disallowed and returned to profit oil. This would most likely be addressed in the new Production Sharing Agreements (PSA).

Speaking at a press

conference on Thursday last, Dr. Jagdeo noted that any eventuality of a deadlock betwee n the government and oil operators on disputed cost oil expenses would trigger an arbitration process, but future strengthening of that process is needed.

“So what happens if you have a dispute?

You have to go to an arbitration process. We may have to just

strengthen that process but you would always have to have a dispute resolution process, because if you have two parties that don’t agree based on audits, you have to do that,” Dr. Jagdeo explained.

“We’re going to review it in the new PSA to see if we can strengthen it but you may not be able to eliminate the international dispute resolution clauses. Dispute

resolutions have to be strengthened, [but] it’s standard in almost every contract that you go to three arbitrators or a sole arbitrator. Almost any dispute, not just with oil companies, any international dispute you have with a big foreign company, you’ll have to have those dispute resolution clauses.”

Questions on provisions for disputed expenses come as work continues on the review of the IHS Markit Audit of the 1999 – 2017 Cost Oil Expenditure, and disputed costs identified in the au -

dit. The audit evaluates the US$1.67 billion in operational expenses claimed by operators of the prolific Stabroek Block, ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess and CNOOC.

Another audit covering US$7.3 billion in expenses from 2018 to 2020 has also been completed and will go through a review process where costs can be contested by the government.

According to the current PSA that Guyana has with the Stabroek block operators, the company can recoup up to 75 per cent

of the revenue as cost oil, which is incurred production costs. The remaining revenue is split 50/50 between the government and the contractor. Hence, the amount of revenue that goes to cost oil affects the amount of money that the country is able to gain from its patrimony.

However, with Guyana currently auctioning off a further 14 oil blocks offshore, the government has begun work on a new PSA that will see new arrangements between future oil and gas operators.

Gov’t invites public consultation on Data Protection Bill 2023

THE government announced its intention to introduce the Data Protection Bill 2023 in the National Assembly soon and as part of its policy to engage

gy.

Submissions and recommendations are invited within 21 days from the date of the announcement via email at agchambersmola@

dividuals, including their right to control the use of their personal information. The legislation is expected to bring Guyana in line with international best practices

in public consultations on important pieces of intended legislation, it is inviting submissions and recommendations from national stakeholder organisations and members of the public in relation to the draft Bill.

Interested parties can access the draft Bill on the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs website www.mola.gov.

gmail.com.

According to the Attorney General’s Chambers, the government will also circulate the draft Bill to relevant national stakeholder organizations for their submissions and recommendations within a similar timeframe.

The Data Protection Bill 2023 is aimed at safeguarding the privacy and personal data of in-

on data protection and privacy.

The government’s invitation for public consultation underscores its commitment to transparent and inclusive lawmaking processes. The government has emphasized that it values the input and perspectives of all stakeholders in the development of laws that affect the public.

GCB, GOG,

MCYS 50-Over U-19 Inter-County Man-of-the-Match Phillips takes

5-7 as E’bo crumble

By Sean Devers

DEMERARA pacer Revaldo Phillips ripped the heart out of the Essequibo batting; taking 5-7 to lead his team to commanding nine-wicket win at Everest yesterday in the final round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Government of Guyana (GOG) and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) 50-over U-19 Tournament.

Phillips who plays for City side GCC, got support from Krisna Singh who grabbed 3-6 and fellow off spinner National U-19 captain had 2-15 as the team from Guyana’s largest Coun-

for 47

ty were dismantled for 47 in 18.3 overs as nobody reached double figures in a pathetic batting performance.

Demerara galloped to 48-1 from just 10.5 overs with Lawrence Pellow lashing a run-a-ball 20 before he fell to Joash Charles at 32-1.

Sixteen-year-old Jaden Campbell stroked a couple of boundaries in his unbeaten 17 while Mavindra Dindyal was with him on five.

Earlier, a match reduced to 37 overs due to morning rain, Phillips roared in from the Northern end with Atlantic Ocean breeze behind his back and quickly removed Shaahid Viera (3), Rajendra Ramballi (5) who attempted to hook at

New York Tri State Donate Gear to PFA

a balls that got big on him and Quincy Sampson for a duck to leave Essequibo wobbling on the ropes as the sun returned in all its glory.

Singh sent back Mohandas Surujpaul (6) while Phillips removed Thaddeus Lovell and the left-handed Arian Persaud for ducks and at 17-5 it was always going to be difficult for Essequibo to post a defendable total.

Charles who made six from four balls, hit the only six in the innings while Davindra Hansraj reached the ropes once in his seven but 47 was never going to be enough.

The three-day format is scheduled to commence today.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday April 17, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Pragyan Ojah-21 wickets (DC)

(2) Doug Bollinger-4/13 (CSK vs DC)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI wicketkeeper effected most dismissals in IPL 2010?

(2) What was the highest partnership recorded in IPL 2010? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

…………………………………………………………………………

AT a simple presentation ceremony yesterday, President of Professional Foundation Agricola (PFA), Ms. Stacy Cuffy, received a donation of cricket gear from NY Tri State Head Coach, Linden Fraser in the presence of Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) representative, Shawn Massiah.

The NY Tri State had a successful visit to Guyana where they were hosted by the GCA. Guyana born Fraser said the trip to his homeland was well organised and thanked the organisers.

PFA plays in GCA Second Division and age group competitions.

Ms Cuffy expressed thanks to Fraser, a former Guyana First-Class fast bowler, and New York Tri State management and team. (Sean Devers)

President Ms. Stacy Cuffy (PFA) received a donation from NY Tri State Coach Linden Fraser in the presence of GCA’s representative Shawn Massiah

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview

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Mumbai Indians stick commanding win in KKR’s face

(ESPNCRICINFO) - ON a special day for the Mumbai Indians franchise, their home fans were treated to a commanding victory over Kolkata Knight Riders, with contributions from Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Piyush Chawla and Hrithik Shokeen.

The all-round effort from the Mumbai team overshadowed Venkatesh Iyer's 51-ball 104 that had single-handedly lifted the Knight Riders to 185. Iyer broke Knight Riders' jinx of no IPL centuries since Brendon McCullum's 158* from 15 years ago, but the other batters were not fluent.

That meant Knight Riders finished below par and Kishan's powerplay dominance (58 off 25) made it even worse for them. Suryakumar, the stand-in captain, then showed glimpses of his best (43 off 25) with solid contributions from Tilak Varma and Tim David to polish off the win.

There was also a debut for Arjun Tendulkar, the son of

Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar. He bowled two new-ball overs that showed promise for the future.

Venkatesh ends KKR's century curse

Sometimes intent matters more than timing. Or so it seemed in Venkatesh's case.

Walking in after N Jagadeesan fell for a duck early, he hit Tendulkar and Cameron Green for sixes to race away to 19 in

8 balls.

He often charged out of his crease, using his reach to convert length balls into fuller deliveries, and even if he wasn't timing it, he was clearing the boundaries. He also survived some inside-edges that whizzed past the stumps for four, including the ball that got him to fifty in 23 deliveries.

Sometimes Venkatesh looked a million dollars. Like

when he pulled both Riley Meredith and debutant Duan Jansen - Marco's twin - for sixes in the 11th and 12th overs. At other times, Venkatesh rode his luck with his footwork getting him in awkward positions.

Another six off Meredith in the 14th over took Venkatesh to 94, but he wouldn't reach his century till his 17th, with Mumbai's bowlers squeezing him and Shardul Thakur with three tight overs. When he got there, he presented a wide grin and acknowledged the crowd.

He couldn't stay till the end though. In the 18th over, an attempted reverse scoop off Meredith resulted in an easy catch on 104 for short third.

Chawla leads Mumbai's bowling effort

Suryakumar chose to bowl at the toss. Tendulkar took the new ball and got it to swing early. He bowled six dots and finished 0-17 in two overs. Green kept tight lines and Shokeen's offbreaks to two left-handers kept one end

quiet.

Trying to increase his strike-rate, Rahmanullah Gurbaz was caught at short third off Chawla. Then things got heated when Nitish Rana was dismissed by his state teammate Shokeen. Shoekeen went on to remove Shardul Thakur, slog sweeping to the deep and Rinku Singh couldn't repeat his recent heroics either, making only 18.

It was Venkatesh's hitting - a total outlier in the Knight Riders innings - that had kept them on course for a 200+ score, but Shokeen, Chawla and Jansen bowled three tidy overs between 15 and 17 to take some momentum out from the batting innings. Russell faced only 11 balls after walking in at No. 7 and hit 21 unbeaten runs to set Mumbai 186 to win.

Ishan's burst and Rohit's 'Impact'

Rohit, who didn't start the game due to a 'stomach bug', walked in as opener after Mumbai activated their

Impact Player. He was very nearly caught-and-bowled by Umesh Yadav off his first ball. For most of the powerplay, he was spectator to Kishan's thrashing of Knight Riders' bowlers before falling for 20.

Kishan punished Shardul for 4, 4, 6 through the off side in the second over. He then showed his leg-side play with a four and six off Umesh in the third. When Narine came in to bowl the chase's fourth over, he was hit for 22 with Kishan going 6, dot, 6, 4 through slogs. He got his fifty in 21 balls.

Kishan then smashed Varun Chakravarthy for six to move to 58, but when he tried to repeat it, he was bowled. But the openers had done their job. According to ESPNcricinfo's forecaster, Mumbai were 30% favourites to win the game at the start of the chase. By the time Kishan and Rohit were gone, Mumbai were 87 for 2 in 7.3 overs - now 70% favourites.

Hetmyer sees Rajasthan Royals home

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Ra -

jasthan Royals had almost reached a point of no-return.

Their chase of 178 was going nowhere at 66 for 4. They needed a further 112 more off 48 balls. Twelve of those were to be bowled by Rashid Khan.

You sensed this was perhaps a task too steep, even for someone as pedigreed as Sanju Samson and Shimron Hetmyer. But as Rinku Singh showed the other night at this very ground, it ain't over till it's over.

Samson went 6,6,6 in Rashid's third over that went for 20 runs, Hetmyer took the attack at the other end to his West Indies team-mate Alzarri Joseph. Within no time, momentum had swung the Royals way to such an extent that not even Samson's dismissal at that juncture seemed a bother.

Hetmyer stood tall to bring up his half-century off 25 balls, Dhruv Jurel contributed a cameo knock of 17 that was worth a lot more and R Ashwin came in to smack a six and a four in the penultimate over. All of this

brought them within a couple of blows of victory.

With five needed off five, Hetmyer sealed a win that seemed improbable at one stage, by biffing Noor Ahmad for six as Royals had comeback from nowhere to pull off a heist that took them to the top of the IPL 2023 leaderboard five games in.

For Gujarat Titans, this was yet another heartbreak, eerily similar to the one they endured against Kolkata Knight Riders last week.

Titans' chaotic start

Wriddhiman Saha and B

Sai Sudharsan were gone inside the powerplay as Titans limped to 42 for 2; the first time they didn't cross 50 in the first six overs this season.

Saha was out to a hoick that had three people going for it, only for a fourth, Trent Boult, take the rebound that followed a collision between Samson and Hetmyer. Sudharsan was run-out at the striker's end by a yard, after he coiled himself at the bowler's end; those precious seconds costing him the distance to make the ground.

Hardik-Gill get going

The pair set about re -

building the innings, and one of the ways they went about it was to try and attack the spinners. Ashwin was hit for 27 in his first two; Gill used his feet to score against him, while Hardik took down Adam Zampa. The pair added 59 in just 33 balls before Yuzvendra Chahal deceived Hardik in flight to have him caught for a 19-ball 28.

Titans' slowdown

The next 30 deliveries following Hardik's dismissal went for just 31 runs as Royals brought their spinners into play superbly. Titans owed much of their momentum in the end to Abhinav Manohar and Manohar made 27 off 13 in a game he may have not played had Vijay Shankar been fit. Miller did Miller things - taking the innings deep before unleashing some ferocious hits to make 46. Titans suddenly had 177 for 7, more than they looked like getting at one stage but perhaps less than what they would've liked anyway.

Royals rocked early Yashasvi Jaiswal was snuffed out in the slips, and Jos Buttler was clean bowled

- only his second duck in the IPL - trying to scoop Mohammed Shami. At 4 for 2 in three overs, they needed some semblance of normalcy which Devdutt Padikkal and Samson provided, until Rashid entered and made a splash.

win probability had Royals at 2.01%. But Samson unleashed some big hits in Rashid's third over. He got to the pitch to belt the first two down the ground and quickly transferred weight back to pull as soon as Rashid dropped short in trying to

home Hetmyer was the perfect foil at the other end, feeding off Samson's energy with takedowns off his own, more so Joseph. There was a moment when Royals could've had Hetmyer, but for Shami who stumbled a few yards in at third man for a catch that may have been straight down his throat had he stayed on the ropes. Royals needed 62 off 29 then. It's a moment they could look back and wonder what could've been.

Dhruv Jurel, coming in at the fall of Samson's wicket, didn't take time settling in. His impeccable six-hitting and game smarts of using pace to good effect to play behind the wicket helped Royals quickly bring the deficit down.

In his first over, he had charging Padikkal slice a wrong'un to short third man. In his second over, the 11th, he had Riyan Parag flay one straight down long-off's throat.

Samson goes 6,6,6

With Royals needing 112 off 48, ESPNcricinfo

mix his lengths.

It's at this point that Titans introduced Noor Ahmad, the Afghanistan left-arm spinner, for his bag of tricks in place of Gill as the Impact Sub. After being hit for a six and four, he had Samson pick out long-off.

Hetmyer sees Royals

Titans may have yet sniffed a chance when Jurel went for a 10-ball 17, but Ashwin wielded the long handle off his first two deliveries to bring the target down to single digits. From there on, Hetmyer wasn't going to let this slip away as Royals pulled off a comeback win.

Tim David blasted two sixes and a four in his 13ball cameo•Apr 16, 2023•BCCI

Shimron Hetmyer made a match-winning 56* • Associated Press

Timehri Panthers ‘A’ clinch EBFA Tiger Rentals U-13 title

ON Saturday at the National Training Centre, Providence, Timehri Panthers ‘A’ created history by becoming the first winners in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/ East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Tiger Rentals’ under-13 development league.

Following seven match days, Timehri Panthers ‘A’ finished with a total of 21 points after winning each of their games played. Timehri ‘A’ scored an incredible 58 goals while just conceding three.

On Saturday, their final win was against Swan FC, a composed 2-1 victory against the league’s runners up. On target for the winners

Ramnauth (90), Thorne (73) powers B’ce to title

were Mekaiya Daniels and Shawn Stoby, while Kevon Charles scored the consolation for Swan FC.

Friendship All Stars finished the tournament in third, although tied with Herstelling Raiders on 12 points, but with a better goal difference.

Diamond United were fifth, Timehri Panthers ‘B,’ Samatta Point/Kanevile and Agricola Red Triangle were sixth, seventh and eighth, respectively.

Timehri ‘ A’ carted off the individual awards. Micheal Correia was the MVP, Colin David; Best Coach,

Samuel Tasha; Most Goals and Ken Benn was adjudged the best goalkeeper.

Coach David attributed the team’s success to, “Hard work, discipline and dedication. These youngsters are a close bunch and they are eager to play. They are showing the interest in the sport, so we will need to be consistent with them.

“This tournament has been very well organised. Kudos to Tiger Rentals for playing their part and we hope their support continues and is even joined by others from the corporate community.

AGG/Aubrey Huston Saga…

Athletes have been complaining for a while says Second V-P

THE recent suspension of Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) President Aubrey Hutson is not surprising given that there has been a spate of complaints by athletes.

Huston was suspended via a motion passed at last Saturday’s council meeting at the National Racquet Centre.

consideration the various issues of the Guyanese contingent during the recently held 50th Annual CARIFTA Games, made a unanimous decision to suspend the President of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson, for an indefinite period while an independent investigation is conducted.

By Sean Devers

WATCHED by the largest crowd of the tournament, a 98-run partnership between Rampertab Ramna-

uth and All-rounder Isiah

Thorne powered defending Champions Berbice to a convincing 11-run victory over the GCB Select X1 yesterday in the final round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Government of Guyana ( GOG) and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) 50-over U-19 Tournament.

The left-handed Ramnauth stocked a magnificent 90 from 79 balls decorated with nine fours and three sixes and shared in a 98-run third wicket stand with Thorne whose explosive 73 from just 29

balls with five fours and five sixes spearheaded Berbice to 208-3 off a reduced 26 overs due to a late start and a few stoppages due to rain during the course of the game.

Ramnauth and Tomani Ceaser (12) carried the score to 49 before Ceaser departed while another partnership was building between Ramnauth, who played an array of scintillating shots and Mahendra Gopilall (9) when the latter fell at 88-2.

Man-of-the-Match

Thorne joined Ramnauth and slayed the hapless bowlers to all parts the large Enmore sward in a brutal onslaught to the delight of the crowd which included fans in a vehicle which blared pulsating music all day.

The stand was eventually broken when Ramnauth, with 10 short of the only century in the tournament, was dismissed at 186-3 but Thorne kept going and it was raining sixes as Rampersaud (5) played the role of silent partner as the 200 was posted.

The Select X1 reached 91-6 off their allotted overs as only Marlon Ramsurace who hit one four in 24 and Nityanand Mathura with 20 reached 20 for the Select X1.

Ramnauth with scores of 41, 29 & 90 (160) finished with the most runs in the tournament while Rampersaud with 11 wickets topped wicket takers list.

The three-day format which starts tomorrow, will be played at Bourda and Everest.

And according to second vice president (VP) Niall Stanton, this decision was not surprising following the many issues that has been surrounding the association not only recently, but during the custody of Hutson.

In an invited comment to Chronicle Sport, Stanton posited that, “A lot of things have been happening at the AAG that was not privy to the public. Athletes have been complaining for a while. One of the council members move the motion to have him removed and it was supported.”

Stanton noted that there will be an independent investigation which the AAG is hoping can be conducted by the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), and the association can expect to see a letter requesting such shortly.

The full release from the AAG read:

“The council of the Athletic Association of Guyana (AAG), taking into

In his absence, Retired Assistant Superintendent and First Vice President, Sheryl Hermonstine, will now take the helm as President.

Keith Campbell will now act in the position of First Vice President and Niall Stanton will act as Second Vice President since the Second Vice President, Retired Colonel Arthur from the Guyana Defence Force, sent in his resignation on Friday, April 14, 2023, with immediate effect.

The council would have accepted his resignation and thanked him for his service over the years.

The council has also taken the decision to reinstate Elton Bollers, the former General Secretary of the AAG, as a committee member.

There was also the election of a new General Secretary, James Cole.

After the conclusion of the investigation, the council will consider the recommendations and take further definitive actions.”

Timehri Panthers ‘A’ receiving their championship winners’ trophy from GFF General Secretary Ian Alves

Berbice retained their 50 overs title yesterday at Enmore (Sean Devers photo)

The National Sports Commission (NSC) commends the 2023 National Budget presented by the distinguished Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, which includes the largest-ever allocation for the sports sector. The provision of $4.3B surpasses the prior allotment with a substantial increase

$4.3B Sport budget

GCB, GOG, MCYS 50-Over U-19 Cricket

Ramnauth (90), Thorne (73) powers B’ce to title

of $1.1B. This unprecedented allocation must be extolled as it highlights, inter alia, this H.E President Irfaan Ali-led government’s continued commitment, vision, and direction for the development of sports and sportsmen and women.

With the largest ever allocation

for the National Sports Commis sion, Budget 2023 paves the way for Government’s continued trans formation in our sports facilities –something that is critical to the de velopment of world class athletes and for the hosting of international tournaments which would have commenced in the previous year.

Sports headed in right direction with $4.3B allocation

By Calvin Chapman

THE Government of Guyana continues to show their commitment to sport with H.E. President Irfaan Ali overseeing a total of $9B invested thus far in sport since taking office.

This year’s mammoth budget of $4.3B for sports, which was announced by Senior Minister in the Office of the President, Dr. Ashni Singh, during Monday’s budget presentation, eclipses 2022’s $3.2B by over 33% and 2021’s $1.5B.

mission is unshakeable the presented the leadership Culture, Honourable MP, sport will transform forever.

West Indies Test Squad for two-Test Series in Zimbabwe

…Gabriel, Warrican and Motie recalled to 15-member

GCB, GOG, MCYS 50-Over U-19 Inter-County Man-of-the-Match Phillips takes 5-7 as E’bo crumble for 47

The 2023 sports budget provisions for a massive stadium at Palmyra, is testament to the administration’s aim of decentralising sport, and true to President Ali’s promise of having a state-of-the-art sport facility on the Corentyne.

This year’s budget will see major infrastructural works with Hinterland communities set to benefit from multipurpose facilities and, the rehabilitation of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), which has already seen works being commenced.

In addition, Dr. Singh had shared that, “Provision has been set aside for the establishment of a National Cricket Academy.” Meanwhile, there will be, “Construction of stands and grass mounds in Regions Two and Six, extension of the Squash court at the National Racquet Center and procurement of sports gear,” Dr. Singh continued.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s Community Ground Enhancement project, which benefitted 54 communities

last year with 21 of those being outfitted with lights, has been allocated another $250m this year for the continued improvement of community grounds across the country.

President’s Ali promise of making Guyana a regional hub for sports began to take massive strides in 2022. Dr. Singh mentioned that, “Beyond the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2022, we saw at the Regional level the return of the Inter Guiana Games to these shores after a five-year hiatus.”

Dr. Singh also mentioned that the partnership be -

ST JOHN’S, Antigua –The Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) Men’s Selection Panel Tuesday announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test Series in Zimbabwe, starting on 4 February. The Selection Panel recalled experienced fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, as well as left-arm spinners, Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican.

AGG/Aubrey

Huston Saga…

Athletes have been complaining for a while says Second V-P

Gabriel has taken 161 wickets in 56 Tests, placing him joint 12th in the West Indies all-time wicket-takers list and more recently was the joint-leading wicket taker in the CG United Super50 Cup for the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in November last year.

Gabriel’s last Test Match was against Sri Lanka in November 2021. Warrican’s last international appearance was also in Sri Lanka in De cember 2021 when he played in both matches in the Test Series. Motie made his Test debut for West Indies in An tigua in June 2022 in the first 2023 and we will hope to start with a win. We appreci-

Shannon Test against

ate ment other play soil port looked anticipate have spinners Australia, rican.

Bolt missing millions from investment accounts

Kashif Muhammad Chateram Ramdihal Cristy Campbell Dellon Davidson Bissoondyal

Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President

Rampertab Ramnauth goes over extra cover during his delightful 90 at Enmore (Sean Devers photo)

Isaih Thorne pulls during his shot-filled 73 yesterday at Enmore (Sean Devers photo)

POM Revaldo Phillips who had 5-7, had Rajendra Ramballi caught hooking at Everest yesteday (Sean Devers photo)