Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 20-06-2023

Local railway system could return

— President Ali says feasibility of reintroducing trains will be examined in a few years

IN an effort to ease the traffic woes faced by commuters on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) and East Bank of Demerara (EBD), President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali revealed last Friday that once the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) secures a second term, the government will take a look at the viability of bringing back the railways.

Complaints of traffic congestion along the EBD and ECD corridors are in the public domain, and owing to this, the government has already started constructing critical infrastructure in order to curb

this issue.

All of the major road works being done in and around communities along the

East Bank of Demerara are nearing completion.

Similarly, it is no secret that the ECD is witnessing

a number of infrastructural projects too, such as the fourlane road expansion, and with massive economic investments, there will be a need for more transportation to carry goods and persons back and forth, in a timely manner.

One initiative along the ECD that will drive development and increase production is the industrial estate at Enmore.

According to President Ali, this will create thousands of jobs for residents, and this is just one example of how Guyana’s economy is progressing at an “unbelievably” rapid pace.

Addressing the plans earmarked for Enmore, the Head of State said: “This area here on the East Coast, encompassing Enmore and Paradise and the surrounding communities will be drastically transformed.”

He went on to say: “Definitely in the next term of office for the People's Progressive Party, we will be looking at the train to see the viability of having a train along the East Bank, East Coast.”

At one point in time Guyana had two public railways: the Demerara-Berbice railway and the Demerara-Essequibo railway, which are no longer

functional.

From Georgetown, the capital and largest port of Demerara to Rosignol, in Berbice, the Demerara-Berbice railway stretched for 97.4 kilometres along the coast. From there, it was connected to New Amsterdam by a ferry across the Berbice River.

The Demerara-Essequibo railway, Guyana's second railway, operated for 29.8 kilometres along the West Coast of Demerara from Vreed-en-Hoop on the Demerara River's left bank to Parika on the Essequibo River. It had a three-foot, six-inch gauge.

Pension payments now available via MMG

By Cassandra Khan

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS), along with Mobile Money Guyana Inc. (MMG), has yet again gone a step further to making pension payments easily

accessible for pensioners, by providing monthly payments via the MMG application that pensioners may cash in at any time.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, in her feature address at a launch

ceremony on Monday, said that they have taken a significant step by ensuring easy access for pensioners and their pension payments.

“Instead of going to the post office only, and having to do that within the first few days of the month, pension is

now accessible every day of the month and it allows our seniors to be able to cash their vouchers any day, any time,” Minister Persaud said.

To access MMG pension payments, pensioners must complete a registration form, either uplifted from the MoHSSS probation offices, or one printed out from the MoHSSS website. After completing the form, it must be submitted along with the pensioner’s current booklet.

For the following payments, the pensioner would then receive it via MMG with no cost to them, while cashing out.

On the form, pensioners would need to enter details such as identification (ID) or passport details, the name of their MMG account, and the account’s number. If a pensioner does not have an MMG account, one will be created for them.

Minister Vindhya related that the launch reflects the upward spiral of Guyana’s utilization of Information Technology (IT).

Moreover, she said that the ministry is moving swift-

ly to the point where applications would be able to be submitted online on the MoHSSS’s website.

“The forms are there and it’s the download and print… we are right now moving to the point where we will have the applications up for people to simply plug in their information and submit online,” she explained.

She said that whether pensioners decide to use MMG or any of the other payment options available, they are continuing to pioneer more, as they are committed to ensuring that senior citizens and pensioners receive the best from the MoHSSS.

General Manager of MMG, Bobita Ram, said that the two entities have worked

together to make receiving pensions easier for senior citizens by enabling them to receive their pensions in their MMG accounts.

She said that it also marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards revolutionizing the financial landscape and empowering individuals to take control of their financial well-being. Ram ensures the process involved is a smooth and hassle-free one. MMG

not only offers security, but over 1000 agents across the country and a team ready to assist in the process with pensioners.

“I would also like to assure you that we have built into this app, security to protect you and your money…all of your transactions are protected,” Ram explained. “At mmg, we have always believed in the power of innovation to transform lives. By providing pensioners with the option to receive their pensions through our secure and reliable payment platform, we are giving them the tools to manage their finances with ease and convenience.”

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud

General Manager of MMG, Bobita Ram

‘We are building a young corps of bright people’

VP Jagdeo says endless opportunities being created for Guyana’s youth to equip themselves to manage nation’s rich resources

By Trina Williams

GUYANA’S economy is being transformed significantly with key investments in traditional and non-traditional areas.

And to ensure that the country’s youth is well positioned to capitalise on the resultant opportunities, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said that the government is rolling out a plethora of training opportunities to equip them with important skills.

In an interview with 94.1 FM on Monday, Dr. Jagdeo said that the government is aiming, in particular, to recruit more young people into the oil-and-gas industry, due to the sector’s rapid expansion.

According to Jagdeo: “So, if people are listening, they should look at the opportunities available; we’re building a young corps of bright people that can manage this industry 10-15 years into the future.”

Additionally, with the government fulfilling its Manifesto promises of creating more employment opportunities for the Guyanese citizens, he said that this is a massive step up when compared to the time under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC).

“We have a massive plan. We have new hotels going up; we need 3,000 people to work,” Dr. Jagdeo said, adding that apart from this, the government has a huge training programme for welders in

Laing Avenue.

“I want every person who came to see me at Freedom House; who came to see me before elections, and anything we promised to them, regardless of the outcome, whether we won in constituency or not, the promise is valid, and has the support of the PPP and my personal support,” he affirmed.

STRIVES MADE

While urging citizens to be cautious of the untruths being peddled by the Opposition, Dr. Jagdeo said: “Since we got into office, we put in place 1,200 part-time jobs for people in Linden; young people mainly.”

And on the topic of scholarships within that township, the PPP has already delivered on hundreds of its promises.

Additionally, while addressing APNU+AFC’s poor track record, he remarked that although the Opposition is always being vocal about their criticisms, they have a history of failing to commit to the people, as can be seen in how they managed the oil and gas sector.

“Now we’re putting in place the framework,” Dr. Jagdeo said, noting that the Opposition cannot even put forth a final position on the industry.

On the other hand, among the numerous works already executed by the government, Dr. Jagdeo said that within their short tenure in office, not only did the PPP start the construction of a disability centre, but also 12 state-of-art hospitals,

such as the pediatric and maternal hospital at Ogle.

Further, regarding the maternal and pediatric hospital, he said: “Transform the way we address our women and children and quality.”

Last year, the government signed contracts with China’s Sinopharm International for the construction of six new regional hospitals in various parts of the country.

Moreover, when commenting on the

PPP’s position on the upcoming 2025 General and Regional Elections, the party’s General Secretary affirmed that they are on a good standpoint, and owing to their performance, they are hoping that the people are guided by that.

He said: “We will work hard for the people’s trust; we will work in these communities. We want to consolidate; we want to build, and we want people to understand we campaign on being a trustworthy party.”

Psychological support continues for those affected by Mahdia tragedy

FOUR weeks after tragedy struck at the female dormitory of the Mahdia Secondary School in Region Eight, psychological and psychiatric support provided by the Ministry of Health is continuing for those affected by the deadly fire Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, speaking on the sidelines of an event on Monday, told media operatives that teams from the ministry are currently on the ground in Mahdia offering support with assistance from foreign experts.

Additionally , a Mount Sinai Health System team is presently in Guyana providing training to health professionals to better deliver these

support services to those affected

“They

’re doing training in psychiatric assessments of persons and how to communicate with them, how to talk to them, how to identify different types of psychiatric illnesses and so forth They’re right now doing that training in Georgetown and then they’ll go back in and we’ll continue to support them,” Dr Anthony disclosed

Additionally , the ministry has established telemedicine sites in communities including Karisparu , Chenapau and Micobie, which have been affected by the fire, to further provide further medical support Minister Anthony said that the

Community Health Workers (CHWs) in these communities have been trained to deliver healthcare services using the telemedicine system

“ Right now … those are some of the most remote communities we have in the country, we can actually talk to them from Mahdia or they can talk to us in Georgetown So, if anybody got a challenge, they come to the health centre, the Community Health Worker would connect them with one of the doctors at Georgetown Public Hospital or in Mahdia and we’re able to help from Georgetown,” he added.

Meanwhile, Dr Anthony revealed that the girl who was a fire victim and

was medivacked to Northwell Health Burn Care Centre in New York is recovering well and is now interacting with her parents, doctors and nurses

However, due to the extensiveness of her injuries, it is hard to tell when she will be released

“She’s doing really well and she’s making a good recovery,” he stated

On May 21, 2023, a fire broke out in a secondary school dormitory in Mahdia, Region Eight killing 19 female students and a five-yearold boy . The person responsible for settling the dormitory ablaze has been remanded to the Juvenile Justice Centre and charged with 19 counts of murder. (DPI)

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Xi, Blinken agree to stabilise US-China relations in Beijing talks

CHINA and the United States agreed on Monday to stabilize their intense rivalry so it does not veer into conflict, but failed to produce any major breakthrough during a rare visit to Beijing by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed "progress" after shaking hands with Blinken at the Great Hall of the People, a grand venue usually reserved for greeting heads of state.

The top U.S. diplomat and Xi both stressed the importance of having a more stable relationship, as any conflict between the world's two largest economies would create global disruption.

China refused to enter-

tain Washington's bid to resume military-to-military communication channels, citing U.S. sanctions as the obstacle. The two sides appeared entrenched in their positions over everything from Taiwan to trade, including U.S. actions toward China's chip industry, human rights and Russia's war against Ukraine.

U.S. President Joe Biden said later on Monday he thinks relations between the two countries are on the right path, and indicated that progress was made during Blinken's trip.

"We're on the right trail here," Biden said of U.S.-China relations.

Asked by reporters during a trip to California whether he felt progress had been made, he replied, "I don't

feel," he said. "You know it's been made."

Biden said of Blinken: "He did a hell of a job."

At one of the most significant U.S.-China exchanges since Biden took office, it was not clear how the countries would overcome their differences. The sides agreed to continue diplomatic engagement

with more visits in the coming weeks and months.

ACHIEVED OBJECTIVES

At a news conference concluding his two-day trip to Beijing, the first by a U.S. secretary of state since 2018, Blinken said Washington had achieved its objectives for the trip, including raising concerns

directly, trying to set up channels for dialogue and exploring areas of cooperation. The trip was postponed in February after a suspected Chinese spy balloon flew through U.S. airspace.

But he said progress was not straightforward.

"The relationship was at a point of instability, and both sides recognized the need to work to stabilize it," Blinken said before leaving China.

"But progress is hard. It takes time. And it’s not the product of one visit, one trip, one conversation. My hope and expectation is: we will have better communications, better engagement going forward."

U.S. officials had been playing down the prospect of a major breakthrough, but hoped Blinken's visit

would pave the way for more bilateral meetings, including possible trips by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

It had been hoped that it would even pave the way for a summit between Xi and Biden later in the year. Biden and Xi last met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Indonesia in November, pledging more frequent communication, although ties have since deteriorated.

"The two sides have also made progress and reached the agreement on some specific issues. This is very good," Xi told Blinken on Monday across a long table adorned with pink flowers. Blinken responded by saying the two countries

Continued on page 5

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, June 19, 2023 (REUTERS/Leah Millis/Pool)

Dengue fever crisis forces Peru minister to resign

Under pressure over her handling of the crisis, Ms. Gutiérrez announced her decision to stand down on Thursday.

Lawmakers had summoned Ms. Gutiérrez to face a motion to remove her from her post, but she resigned beforehand.

She had previously claimed that the virus would be contained within 15 days, Peruvian media reported.

In a post on Twitter, President Dina Boluarte accepted her minister's departure, vowing to "redouble" efforts to improve public health.

Cyclone Yaku bought torrential rain to the coun-

try's north in April and May, leading to a huge upsurge in numbers of mosquitoes, which carry the disease.

Officials fear the situation will worsen when the El Niño climate phenomenon brings further heavy precipitation later in the year.

Last week, President Boluarte declared a state of emergency to cover most regions across the country, although most of the fatalities have occurred in the north. Symptoms of dengue include a high fever, severe headaches, swollen glands and rashes. (BBC)

PERU'S Health Minister, Rosa Gutiérrez, has resigned as the country struggles to control a

dengue fever outbreak.

Dengue fever is an infection spread by mosquitoes, most common in

tropical and subtropical climates.

The outbreak has caused record-breaking

deaths and infections, with at least 248 dead and reported cases surpassing 146,000.

Xi, Blinken agree to stabilize...

From page 4

have a responsibility to manage their relationship.

His meetings in Beijing, including talks with China's top diplomat Wang Yi and foreign minister Qin Gang, had been "candid and constructive," Blinken added.

It was not clear from Xi's remarks what progress he was referring to, although he told Blinken that China "hopes to see a sound and steady China-U.S. relationship" and believes that the countries "can overcome various difficulties," according to a Chinese readout of the talks.

Xi also urged Washington not to "hurt China's legitimate rights and interests," a signal of potential flashpoints such as Taiwan, the democratic island Beijing claims as its own.

Blinken said he made clear the United States needs much greater cooperation from China on

stemming the flow of fentanyl and the sides agreed to set up a working group on the matter.

TAIWAN CORE ISSUE

The lack of open communication channels between the two countries has prompted international jitters, and Beijing's reluctance to engage in regular military-to-military talks with Washington has alarmed China's neighbors.

Speaking to reporters after the talks, senior foreign ministry official Yang Tao said U.S. sanctions were blocking progress on improving military-to-military communications.

Chinese defense minister Li Shangfu has been sanctioned since 2018 over the purchase of combat aircraft and equipment from Russia's main arms exporter, Rosoboronexport.

Asked what specific progress the two sides had made, Yang said they had agreed to prevent a down-

ward spiral in relations. The official added that Chinese foreign minister Qin had accepted Blinken's request to visit the United States.

Xi's comments, and the diplomatic choreography of the visit, appeared to signal a will to make progress, analysts said.

"China's messaging has been pretty positive," said Wu Xinbo, a professor and director at the Center for American Studies at Fudan University in Shanghai.

"China showed that it still hopes to work with the U.S. to stabilize and improve relations. I think that while China is not optimistic about Sino-U.S. relations, it has not given up hope either."

Beijing's tone on Taiwan was particularly pointed throughout Blinken's visit.

"China has no room for compromise or concessions," said Wang, according to the Chinese readout.

The United States has

long stuck to a policy of "strategic ambiguity" over whether it would respond militarily to an attack on Taiwan, which Beijing has refused to rule out. (Reuters)

File picture of a worker spraying fumigation vapour to stem the spread of dengue virus at Esperanza cemetery in Lima, Peru

A Nation Exhales

THE mid-term Local Government Elections (LGEs) are over; the results are without doubt, and the nation exhales. Not that there was any doubt as to which alliance would win and lose, nor was it a case of a possible close call, as it was clear long before the election bell actually rang that Guyanese had made their minds up to ensure continuity.

That much was clear from the moment the Opposition started resorting to the usual tricks-of-trade by seeking and finding legal and constitutional reasons to justify seeking a delay in the elections, but in the interest of democracy, the Elections Commission and the gov-

erning party agreed to the requested postponement.

But more time didn’t benefit the Opposition as it was simply unable to turn the tide of public opinion that had long turned against it since the 2020 electoral debacle that shamed the entire nation and all right-thinking Guyanese everywhere.

The results clearly show that the growing support for the government and ruling party also crossed partisan political boundaries, eating into traditional opposition bases in ways and to extents like never before.

Evidence of the effectiveness of the ruling alliance’s campaign was best seen in the opposition’s reaction and espe-

cially the verbose way its leaders attacked, vilified and verbally abused the men and women in their ranks who exercised their democratic right to tell the party they supported most of their lives they’d had enough of its penchant to expect them to simply oppose the government and await regime change.

As Guyanese citizens with equal rights as their leaders to want to see and feel the benefits of their party in office like everyone else, those who chose to proverbially cross the floor were all disappointed with their party and took the mature decision to stand up, not just for themselves but for Guyana.

Those who left the op-

position to join ranks with the governing alliance did so on the basis of their certainty that this government’s performance over the past two years and 10 months benefitted Guyana and Guyanese more than the previous administration did between 2015 and 2020.

With the benefit of hindsight, they weighed the differences and came to the common conclusion that their party wasn’t and still isn’t ready for consideration as an alternative government.

They saw and felt and are still benefitting from the growing and widening spread of the nation’s resources being put to work for the national good, while setting the stage

that’s made Guyana what it is today as the fastest growing world economy, the fourth largest offshore oil producer and the new global energy frontier.

Guyana’s reputation has also been rescued and restored by this administration, which has taken time off to recalibrate national policy in the direction of more south-south cooperation and better ties with our Caribbean neighbours.

This administration has made Guyana proud over the past 34 months and the results show Guyanese overwhelmingly decided to reaffirm the mandate they gave it in 2020, with many also standing their grounds in the face of insults from

back-stabbing former partisan comrades-in-arms. Guyanese decided to extend their trust in the ruling party and alliance by allowing the latter to take their better handling of the nation’s business to the towns, villages and communities across the length and breadth of Guyana.

Now the nation has exhaled; it’s for the government to ensure the continuity citizens voted for continues to be reflected in their communities through introduction and implementation of the policies and projects at local levels in like manner as the whole nation has experienced since August 2, 2020.

AG to go after Opposition for monies owed for its unsuccessful court cases

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has announced his chambers' intention to enforce the payment of costs owed by the Opposition as a result of multiple unsuccessful court cases.

The decision comes after Justice Navindra Singh of the Demerara High Court dismissed a case challenging passage of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill. This case is one of many matters that the Opposition had filed but eventually lost.

The applicants, Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones and trade unionist Norris Witter were each ordered to pay $1,250,000 in court costs

on or before July 19, 2023.

Speaking with reporters on Monday following the court’s ruling, Nandlall expressed his determination to ensure that all of the outstanding cost orders are duly enforced.

He stated: "We will now have to enforce these cost orders. I now have a pile of them because it's a series of cases that have been filed by the Opposition."

Nandlall further stressed that when the court imposes costs as a consequence of the Opposition filing “frivolous and vexatious” matters, they must be paid.

In January 2023, eight opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) were or-

dered to pay 350,000 each to the State after losing a court case over their suspension. To date, the MPs have not paid any monies, the AG pointed out.

Some of the other failed court cases span from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) elections petition ruling to the most

recent judgment delivered by Justice Singh.

Last month, Chief Justice (CJ) Roxane George dismissed two court challenges filed by the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) aimed at blocking the upcoming Local Gov-

ernment Elections.

The Opposition’s chief scrutineer Carol Smith-Joseph has been ordered to pay GECOM costs amounting to $250,000 on or before June 30, 2023.

Nandlall indicated that his staff has already begun the process of accumulating the necessary information to initiate the enforcement proceedings.

Elaborating on the available options to enforce the judgments, the Attorney General mentioned several approaches.

"The process can seize their personal assets. You can go after their movable and immovable assets; you can go to imprison them," Nandlall explained.

He expressed confi -

dence in establishing that the individuals in question possess the means to pay the outstanding amounts.

Additionally, Nandlall suggested the possibility of garnishing their monthly earnings through their employers as another means of collecting the owed sums.

Nandlall revealed that his office had previously sent letters of demand to the Opposition members who are now required to pay the costs.

With the mounting number of cost orders against them, the Attorney General signalled his intention to explore these enforcement options swiftly.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

Young Guyanese must know Daniel Ellsberg

THIS country has a really young population in the world. And because of this demographic shape, the average Guyanese may not know of truly great humans, in and out of Guyana, who inspired untold numbers.

This is where historians, analysts, commentators and columnists come in. We must bring to the attention of our country the names of superb men and women who have made great sacrifices so that others can be free.

I think I am a good person who believes in rights over wrongs and yearn for equality and justice for all. And this character of mine was shaped by people I should always write about because if they did not project their courage onto the world scene, maybe I would not be who or what I am today.

One of those persons died last week. His name was Daniel Ellsberg. He died at age 92. In the 1970s, long before a majority of Guyanese were born, he was one of the most talked about humans on Planet Earth because of what he did.

What he did, Guyanese and other nationalities who live in the developing world should internalise the meaning of Ellsberg’s action.

I had always liked politics, so in 1971 when Ellsberg became a global hero, I was aware of who he was and what he did. But in 1971, although I followed politics in the world and in my country, I was nowhere near having my GCEs or ever thought of going into university. I did in 1974

and I became even more admiring of people like Daniel Ellsberg.

In 1971, Ellsberg released to the public a set of documents that has come to be known as the Pentagon Papers. He was a military analyst with the US Government and came into contact with a study by the Pentagon of the Vietnam War.

Ellsberg saw in those documents where successive presidents of the US at the time had lied to the American people and Congress about the decision to go to war in Vietnam. The Pentagon Papers revealed that the US intervention in Vietnam was simply an act of conspiracy to justify war.

He was charged under the US Espionage Act, the very act that Julian Assange has been charged under. Ellsberg faced a jail sentence of over a hundred years but was freed after the judge ruled that the US Government acted illegally in investigating his actions.

From 1971 onwards, with the release of the Pentagon Papers, anti-war feelings spread across the globe and it galvanised the American people to denounce the war. From 1971 onwards, Ellsberg became one of the world’s most admired humans. From that year too until he died last week, he remained an indefatigable anti-war activist and a critic of American invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan.

As a columnist, you feel compelled to write about some famous names because when your career is over, you will feel satisfied that you covered all the bas-

es. I am glad I penned my thoughts on Michael Jackson, Burt Bacharch, Julian Assange and now Daniel Ellsberg.

On a personal level, I think people like Ellsberg assisted in the crystallisation of my worldview way back in the 1970s. I always admired him and I think the generation that came after him owes him a debt of gratitude. Interestingly, Ellsberg kept some classified documents he possessed in 1971 when he copied the Pentagon Papers and only released them, 52 years after in 2021. In those papers, the US planned a nuclear strike on China in 1958.

What are the lessons to be learnt from the Pentagon Papers? For those lessons we should be grateful to Daniel Ellsberg. In a world of huge, colossal powerful countries, there is no good guy versus bad guy.

What prevails in international relations is the Peloponnesian principle as elucidated by the first Western book on international relations, “The Peloponnesian Wars” by the ancient Greek historian, Thucydides.

Whether a huge, globally powerful country is democratic, semi-democratic, authoritarian or totalitarian, there will be the instinct to invade territories to dominate the world.

That is what Thucydides instructed us they will do when he wrote his book two thousand years ago. Superpowers want to control the world. That drives their action in the global arena.

Afghanistan will remain the textbook’s

greatest example. A superpower named the USA invaded Afghanistan decades after another superpower, named the USSR, went into Afghan-

istan for the identical reason.

Last week, American senator, Bob Menendez reacted angrily when he heard that China has a

listening post in Cuba. He said it is an insult to the US. Maybe Putin said the same about Ukraine.

Guyana gearing up to host ‘Caribbean Wastewater Conference and Exhibition’

GUYANA is gearing up to host the highly anticipated Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association ( CWWA ) 32nd Annual Conference and Exhibition , scheduled to take place from October 23 to 27, 2023.

On Monday, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and Permanent Secretary , Andre Ally , were briefed on the preparations for the event, at the Housing ministry’s Brickdam office Minister Croal expressed his enthusiasm for the conference and assured that the Government of Guyana is fully committed to supporting its success

“I presented this to Cabinet and there is an endorsement of us hosting this conference we want to use this opportunity to show -

case what we are doing here in Guyana,” he said

The minister stressed the crucial role of waste management and emphasised the significance of addressing this issue

He highlighted that the conference will provide a

unique platform for experts, stakeholders, and heads of government to exchange knowledge and explore innovative solutions to the issue facing the Caribbean region

“ This is a new area for everybody if we

are talking about a modern country , a developed country, then that’s where we have to start,” Minister Croal underscored

The minister commended the local planning committee, led by CWWA President and GWI Executive

Director of Projects, Lt Col

Marlon Daniels , for their diligent efforts in organising the event

During his presentation, Daniels expressed his anticipation for the conference to be one of the largest, with an estimated participation

of around 300 delegates including Caribbean government ministers and local and international investors

Additionally , he revealed that there will be approximately 100 booths on display, showcasing various industry advancements and solutions

Daniels added that the conference and exhibition will also serve as a platform to promote Guyana as a tourism destination while also presenting investment opportunities

The conference will be hosted at the Guyana Marriott Hotel under the theme : “ Accelerating Change in the Water, Wastewater , and Solid Waste Sectors”. For more information contact: conference @ cwwa . net or cwwaconference2023 @ gmail com

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and Permanent Secretary, Andre Ally, were briefed on the preparations for the event on Monday

India’s High Commission celebrates as yoga enthusiasts unite for ninth international celebration

The High Commission of India in Guyana, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), organised a vibrant celebration of the ninth International Day of Yoga (IDY).

The event took place last Sunday at the Muslim Youth Organisation on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown, following a series of curtain raiser yoga events held in the preceding days.

Under the theme, “Yoga For Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which embodies India's shared aspiration for “One Earth, One Family, and One Future,” the event aimed to increase awareness of yoga's holistic approach to wellness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to preside over the global celebration of yoga from the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA on June 21, uniting the entire world in commemorating this special day.

Yoga has gained trust as one of the most effective methods for improving physical and mental health, aligning with the values of mental and physical well-being in today's society. The International Day of Yoga promotes the development of a consistent meditation routine to enhance mental clarity and self-awareness, vital elements for thriving in a stress-free environment. It emphasises the importance of balance in our fast-paced contemporary lives, promoting stress reduction, mindfulness,

and overall health and vitality.

The event was graced by esteemed personalities such as Minister of Public Services Sonia Parag, resident ambassadors and members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from the media, and members of various socio-cultural organisations. Additionally, students from universities and schools across Guyana participated in the celebrations.

As the chief guest representing His Excellency President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Minister Parag emphasised the significance of yoga, its philosophy, and the positive and healing effects it brings.

She commended the Indian High Commission's efforts in organising regular yoga events, spreading its benefits throughout Guyana and reinforcing the deep-rooted connection between yoga and Indian culture in the country.

High Commissioner Dr. KJ Srinivasa elaborated on the multitude of yoga events taking place in India and around the world, organised by the Government of India and Indian embassies abroad.

He highlighted the primary event led by Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, where an estimated 250 million people were expected to participate in the International Day of Yoga celebrations. Dr. Srinivasa shared detail s of innovative initiatives

such as the Ocean Ring of Yoga, the Yoga Bharatmala, and Har Aangan Yoga, which showcased the widespread reach of yoga across different locations and communities.

The High Commissioner extended an invitation to all participants to join future yoga events organised by the High Commission in Berbice, Essequibo, as well as those in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Guyana Defense Force (GDF) later in the month.

He emphasised the High Commission's focus on engaging youth in the yoga programme, ensuring that the younger generation in Guyana can benefit from this traditional Indian science of well-being.

He also extended his best wishes on Father's Day, urging everyone to continue practicing yoga and encouraging their family and friends to adopt it regularly for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Dr. Srinivasa also mentioned the Yoga Day celebrations held

by the High Commission of India in Antigua & Barbuda, St Kitts & Nevis, and Anguilla, which garnered significant attention from dignitaries and yoga enthusiasts.

During the event, all attendees, under the guidance of SVCC yoga instructor Mr. Mohit Maan, performed various asanas based on the Common Yoga Protocol. Additionally, the High Commission facilitated yoga volunteers and individuals who completed 108 Suryanamaskar poses, all of whom hailed from Guyana.

The IDY event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 200 yoga enthusiasts. To maximise the reach of yoga, the event was live-streamed on the social media accounts of the High Commission and SVCC, ensuring a wider outreach and engagement.

Yoga, regarded as a gift of India to mankind and an integral part of Indian tradition and culture for holistic living, has transcended barriers of race, religion, and culture, becoming a global health movement. It is a mental and physical discipline rooted in a subtle science that seeks to harmonize the mind and body. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Government of India has been committed to promoting and propagating yoga worldwide, allowing the entire world to benefit from this traditional Indian science of well-being.

In recognition of its significance, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga since 2015, coinciding with the Summer Solstice, a day of special importance in various parts of the world.

The High Commission's celebration of the ninth International Day of Yoga in Guyana showcased the unity and shared commitment towards embracing yoga as a means to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Guyana’s remarkable journey to economic recovery after COVID-19

THE novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic triggered a global economic collapse and Guyana was no exception to the effects, with the cost of living rapidly increasing and putting a strain on the private sector and the average man.

Coupled with the events surrounding the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections, havoc unfolded leading to hundreds of persons dying from the disease and the slowdown of the economy.

But, after assuming office, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration made several strides to push economic recovery, while implementing several measures to ease the cost of living for citizens.

In its 2020 emergency national budget, the focus was redirected towards making financial resources available to improve testing capabilities and to acquire critical pharmaceutical and healthcare supplies to bring relief to the people, while also opening up the econo-

my and restoring economic activity to some level of normalcy.

Measures to ease the burden on citizens included $150 million to support frontline workers, reversed Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity and water, mortgage interest relief, increase in the limit for low-income loans for corporate tax relief in the banking sector from $8 million to $10 million and the provision of $25,000 COVID-19 relief per household, among other initiatives.

Further, in its first fullyear budget in 2021, additional measures were implemented to ease the cost of living and reverse several punitive taxation measures implemented by the APNU+AFC Government. That plan also catered for countrywide development and rapid economic stimulation.

Key measures included reducing the cost of basic food and other household items, reducing the cost of construction and home ownership, removing the VAT

on data for residential and individual use, and removing the duty on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for use in the hinterland.

Fast forward to March 2022, after nearly two years of restrictions on social, physical, and economic activity to curb the spread of the novel COVID-19, the

government announced the lifting of restrictions clearing the way for a complete rebound of economic activity.

This is in addition to several key measures outlined in the 2022 National Budget geared toward accelerating economic growth and recovery. The excise tax rate re -

duced further on gasoline and diesel from 20 per cent to 10 per cent, while the vulnerable were supported through the introduction of the Dialysis Support Programme where each dialysis patient will receive $600,000 annually.

The public assistance increased from $12,000 to

$14,000, benefitting 18,000 persons and providing an additional $432 million in disposable income.

The old age pension was further increased from $25,000 to $28,000, placing an additional $2.3 billion of disposable income into the pockets of citizens.

Additionally, in 2022 the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant increased from $15,000 to $25,000 per child, placing an additional amount of $2 billion in the homes of the same 200,150 children attending both public and private schools.

The monthly income tax threshold also increased from $65,000 to $75,000 monthly, thereby releasing a total of $1.3 billion into the hands of current taxpayers both in the public and private sectors.

Billions of dollars were invested into initiatives that support the comprehensive COVID-19 vaccination programme, which has led to a significant decline in COVID-19 cases.

Public Service Minister Sonia Parag and Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa, along with other participants on Sunday at the Muslim Youth Organisation at the International Day of Yoga

‘When development comes knocking at your door, you have to accept it’

– residents commend

RESIDENTS of Albouystown and surrounding communities have commended the government for its $1.4 billion works toward enhancing Independence Boulevard (Punt Trench), which has essentially transformed the entire landscape of the area

The Department of Public Information (DPI) caught up with several persons on Saturday, including Dexter Hatton,

enhancement of Independence Boulevard

who described the initiative as a remarkable gift to the communities that will bring direct benefits

“I must say thank you to the current government for making this possible You hear about things and see things around Guyana, but to come out one day from work and see this take a nice cool drive down and see all these families and even the naysayers who condemning they enjoying it way more than the people

who wanted it,” he stated

Hatton believes that people should set aside their political differences and appreciate development

“When somebody does something positive that benefits the people , the people need to respect it no matter what is their political views. When development comes knocking at your door, you have to accept development,” he posited

Abdol Azeez who has been residing in East La Penitence for the past 50 years said, “All the residents of Albouystown will feel a good relief now because they can’t get flood no more This is one of the goods that the government does for them This place is bright, if you drop corn, you can find it at night here.”

With a beaming smile, Azeez recalled a recent encounter with a GTT representative, which further heightened his pride

“ I go to GTT yesterday and when the girl see Boulevard, she said ‘Uncle you come from a big place now.’ I felt so proud,” he exclaimed

Young Dwayne James happily expressed the simple pleasure of sitting and

conversing with his friends in a comfortable environment

“It’s wonderful I feel happy that I could sit and talk to my friends We used to stand up, mosquitos biting , never used to getting these proper lights and these things So , I glad that they come in Albouystown and do this for the ghetto youths,” James emphasised

Another resident , Shaizad Khan highlighted the project’s significance for the younger generation

“ The development is very good for the youths

It’s a lot of improvements Before we had dam; mud, and slush, so this is very good Now, you see a lot of people, old folks coming out and relaxing like you are on the seawall.”

Coach attached to the Peace and Power Boxing Gym, Clifton Barker also lauded the transformation, remarking on the positive impact it has on his ability to train children in the community

“The area is very good; it helps the children in the community because you have a place where you can sit down and lime and then when I come out here to train, people would sit down and admire these

children training,” he said

Coach Barker added that they no longer rely on the sea walls for their training sessions

“I get to train the children now better because I could use from Cemetery Road to La Penitence, which will cover the distance from the seawall and it is less traffic because we have a place to run ,” he disclosed

The Independence Boulevard project is a representation of the government ’ s commitment to urban development and infrastructure enhancement , ensuring the lives of Guyanese are improved and aligned with the ‘One Guyana’ vision

The undertaking, which stretches from Saffon Street to Cemetery Road, boasts a double-lane carriageway on the northern side and a single-lane carriageway on the southern side

Additionally, between these two thoroughfares, there is a promenade , where visitors will enjoy a well-lit area, comfortable benches, and strategically placed garbage bins , contributing to a clean and environmentally friendly ambiance (DPI)

Coach Barker and budding boxers

PAC flags serious accounting discrepancies in Region One fuel purchases under APNU

THE regional administration of Region One (Barima-Waini), under the former coalition administration, did not maintain a register on fuel inventory for 2017, and several accounting discrepancies, including the receipt of more fuel than the region had capacity to store, has raised grave questions of accounting breaches at the regional administration.

This and other issues came to light on Monday, when meetings of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) resumed with the examination of issues raised about Region One’s accounting procedures in the 2017 and 2018 Audit Reports.

According to findings, the region also did not maintain a register for the fuel receipts and issuance, however, in total, there are more cases of fuel being issued than there were instances of input of fuel, leaving several questions of what exactly took place in 2017 with the fuel in the region.

According to the 2017 Audit Report, while 817 drums (36,767 gallons) of fuel were received by the

regional administration from various suppliers, amounts totaling 1,009 drums (45,420 gallons) were reflected as being issued. As a result, the records indicated an excess of 192 drums (8,653 gallons) of gasoline being issued more than was paid for.

Moreover, while fuel was stored in one bond that had a maximum capacity of 50 drums of gasoline (2,250 gallons) and 10 drums of dieseline (450 gallons) at any given time, evidence was seen where fuel was purchased in quantities beyond the storage capacity of the bond.

Further, in Region One, during 2017, some $139.954 million was expended on fuel and lubricants; however, there was no reconciliation of the quantity of fuel received from the supplier with the total amounts paid in 2017.

“As a result, it could not be determined whether the regional administration was in receipt of the full amount of fuel purchased,” the report noted.

A physical audit inspection carried out by the Audit Office on July 11, 2018, during the process of receiving fuel from a supplier

and off-loading same via a pump into the tanks within the bond, found that during the process, there was no supervisory personnel present to witness this activity.

During Monday’s examination of the discrepancies, it was revealed that though the discrepancies occurred in 2017, proper accounting procedures were in place and functioning in the years both before and after 2017.

Regional Executive Officer of Region One, Tikaram Bisesar, and Regional Engineer, Raul Boyer, came under fire from members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) as these issues. Bissessar acknowledged that

‘Getaway’ driver remanded for murder of Coast Guard Lieutenant

RANDY Wright, called “John,” was on Monday remanded to prison for the murder of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard lieutenant Rondel Anthony Douglas, who was fatally shot during a robbery earlier this month.

Wright, 37, of Friendship on the East Bank of Demerara, is the second suspect to appear before Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged with Douglas’ murder.

He was not required to plead to the capital offence which alleged that on June 8, 2023 at Cul-de-Sac Street, North Ruimveldt, during the course or furtherance of a robbery, he murdered Douglas.

Wright was remanded to prison until July 14.

Last week, Joshua Parris called “Stewie,” a 25-yearold labourer of Sophia, Georgetown, was charged and remanded to prison for the capital offence.

According to a police

report, Douglas, a licensed firearm holder and resident of Bagotville, would usually use his motorcar, a Toyota Feilder wagon bearing registration # PZZ 703, to do part-time work as a taxi driver with the Alladin Taxi Service, which is located at La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

The owner of the taxi service reportedly told the police that on the day in question, an identifiable male went to the taxi base and hired the victim to transport him.

According to a resident of Cul-de-Sac Street, around 22:30hrs, he was at home when he heard a loud ex -

the fuel supervisory responsibility fell under his portfolio. However, Bissessar, who was the Deputy REO in 2017 operating under then REO Leslie Wilburg, highlighted his lack of ability to supervise the fuel inventory due to being allegedly prohibited by Wilburg from executing his work in several instances

during the 2017. Bissessar, however, admitted that he did not have the evidence to prove how he was prevented from doing his work.

He was reminded by members of the PAC that as a public servant there are means through which he could address issues once he is restricted from carrying out of his duties.

“I could not go to the stores to perform my function. Those duties were not given to me,” Bissessar said.

However, members of the PAC were not settling for that excuse.

“I cannot accept that. In your capacity as REO you have a job description that comes to the portfolio. You have avenues to seek redress if you are hampered in doing your duty,” commented PAC

Member Ganesh Mahipaul. PAC Member Edghill further noted: “Give us the circumstances and conditions that obtained in the region that showed that you were unable to perform your functions. I don’t know how we can’t logically exonerate you from this if you can’t show us the evidence.”

Audit Manager, Fiona Kingston, said that since the occurrence of this accounting breach, it has since been rectified with the restoration of proper accounting procedures.

“Presently, fuel has been purchased to the capacity of the tanks, reconciliation is being done and the internal controls are more effective than they were during this period [in 2017],” she said.

plosion suspected to be a gunshot which caused him to look out his window.

He reportedly saw a white Fielder Wagon motorcar heading out of the area at a fast rate of speed and a person lying on the ground, in a pool of blood. Two wounds were visible, on his chest and head.

The Guyana Chronicle was made to understand that Parris and Wright allegedly confessed to being hired by a man to steal Parris’ car. However, Wright said that he was only hired to transport the men during the robbery.

Rondel Anthony Douglas

Randy Wright called “John”

Over 1,000 nursing students join hybrid training programme

–– Health Minister anticipates greater number of enrolments next year

–– plans to expand initiative to accept interested Caribbean persons

By Trina Williams

IN an effort to enhance nursing education in Guyana and make it accessible to everyone across the length and breadth of the nation, the Ministry of Health (MoH) through the Health Sciences Education (HSE) Department on Monday officially launched the hybrid professional nursing training programme.

This programme is the result of a collaboration between Guyana ’ s Ministry of Health- Health Sciences Education Department- and the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO).

Minister of Health Dr . Frank Anthony during his address at the launch , said that the government is keen on enhancing the health infra-

structure, but is also committed to developing and raising the quality of the services provided at each level

He related: “This is a very innovative approach that we are taking we are expanding our health sector, we’re doing quite a lot of things in terms of building out the infrastructure in the country,” adding that because there are only three public nursing schools, which can hold roughly 250 students, this is not enough to close the gaps in the health sector

Dr Anthon said too that when the Health Ministry launched the application portal, more than 1,712 people responded, thereby exceeding their expectations

However , the ministry was able to accept only 1,160 applicants because 552 of them did not match the

requirements

According to Dr Anthony: “I’m extremely pleased that once we started this process and we put out a call for applications, we actually got 1,712 applicants.”

However, to not exclude anyone from this opportunity , the minister said that those who did not meet the criteria will be trained by the ministry, so that they would be in a position to qualify for next year ’ s hybrid nursing programme

Notwithstanding this, Dr Anthony said although the cutoff point was 1,000 applicants , the ministry went above and beyond to accept all 1,160 students, who met the criteria

“We decided that we’re bringing everybody on board, so we’re not leaving anyone who met the eligibility crite-

ria out,” Dr Anthony said

This is particularly important because one constant issue plaguing the health sector, not only in Guyana but in the Caribbean, is that of migration of nurses to developed countries

While Dr Anthony said that one cannot stop health personnel from migrating , countries such as Guyana could work on providing more opportunities for those who want to be trained in the health sector.

Moreover , the minister revealed that persons outside of Guyana have expressed an interest in joining the programme and while the ministry welcomes it, he remarked: “We want to first make sure that we can get this up and running properly.”

clinical training, simulation centres will be established along the coast and in the hinterland

In addition, those nursing students will get a $16,180 monthly stipend to ensure that they have the resources necessary to complete the programme

At the conclusion of the three-year nursing programme, students will be given employment opportunities by the Health Ministry

Moreover, the minister said from next year and onwards, they are aiming to increase the acceptance.

EVOLUTION OF NURSING EDUCATION

qualified nurses.

According to her : “ The launch of [the] professional nursing training programme hybrid approach signifies the evolution of nursing education to be the type of technological advancement in education delivery.”

She further mentioned that to give a more handson approach , the clinical component was reviewed thoroughly

Some of the nursing students who are enrolled in the programme

Additionally, he said that because the Health Ministry recognises the significance of

Meanwhile, the Deputy Director of HSE , Chandroutie Persaud, acknowledged how far Guyana has advanced in granting people the chance to become

In addition to this, Dr. Carla Ventura , a professor from the College of Nursing, University of Sao Paulo and Dr. Luis Codina, PAHO/WHO Country Representative , reflected on what it was like working with the Health Ministry to make this possible, and said that they recognise the tremendous work being done by the government to improve the health industry.

from left to right: Daniel Albrecht, Advisor, Health Systems and Service, PAHO Guyana; Dr. Carla Ventura, Professor at the College of Nursing at University of Sao Paulo; Dr Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, and Chandroutie Persaud ,the Deputy Director of HSE (Japheth Savory Photos)

High Court throws out Opposition’s challenge to NRF Bill

THE High Court, on Monday, ruled that the absence of the Mace during the passage of the Natural Resource Fund Bill ( NRF ) does not render the legislation invalid.

The court dismissed the Opposition’s challenge, noting that the presence of the Mace in the National Assembly is not required by the Constitution or the Laws of Guyana

The claim was filed by Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones and trade unionist Norris Witter, who had moved to the court in April 2022, claiming that the bill was not properly passed in the National Assembly in December 2021, owing to the absence of the parliamentary mace

The Attorney - General , the Parliament Office , the Minister of Finance , the Speaker and the Clerk of the National Assembly were all listed as respondents

with no explicit constitutional or legal significance

The judge further said : “It is illogical to believe that the presence or absence of a length of metal can determine the legitimacy of acts done by persons elected by the citizens of the country pursuant to their elected duties.”

Justice Singh said that the

viduals

The judge highlighted that several Opposition Members of Parliament had already disregarded the Speaker ’ s call for order , undermining the notion that the Mace’s absence was the sole factor affecting the legislative process

“…it is preposterous to contend that the legislative

Guyana

According to the ruling: “The time/s for the Sitting of the National Assembly is not mandated by the Constitution or the Laws of Guyana, and nothing in this regard can result in the passage of the Bill being unconstitutional or unlawful.”

The court also addressed the claim that the National

on the absence of the Mace, the continuation of proceedings beyond specified times, and the alleged lack of consultation and participation by opposition members could not succeed He dismissed the case, upholding the constitutionality and lawfulness of the NRF Act

The claimants had argued that the enactment of the NRF Bill by the National Assembly was unlawful and unconstitutional due to the absence of the Mace, a ceremonial item symbolizing the authority of the Speaker of the House

However , the court analysed the evidence and concluded that the Mace ’ s presence or absence does not affect the legitimacy of legislative acts performed by duly elected representatives

Justice Navindra Singh who presided over the case, stressed that the Mace is merely a symbolic object

“absence of the Mace in the National Assembly during the passage of the NRF did not invalidate the subsequent passage of the NRF.”

“ The presence of the Mace in the National Assembly is not mandated by the Constitution or the Laws of Guyana and, therefore, its absence cannot result in the passage of the Bill being unconstitutional or unlawful,” he said in his ruling

Moreover, the court criticised the claimants’ argument, calling it “abhorrent and deplorable” to suggest that the legislative power of the nation could be halted by the actions of a few indi-

power of the nation can be halted by the abhorrent and deplorable actions of a few miscreants ,” Justice Singh said in his ruling

The Opposition’ s argument that the Mace is an integral instrument of the speaker’s authority and crucial to the orderly functioning of the National Assembly was deemed unfounded, considering the opposition members’ refusal to adhere to the Speaker’s call for order in accordance with the established procedural rules

Regarding the continuation of proceedings beyond the specified time stated in Resolution No 2 of the 12th Parliament of Guyana , the court ruled that the regulation of sitting times is an internal procedural matter under the control of the National Assembly

The court, however, stated that the judiciary lacks jurisdiction to regulate or pronounce upon alleged breaches of Standing Orders and that the National Assembly is entitled to conduct its business free from judicial intervention , as long as it complies with constitutional provisions and the Laws of

Assembly had a constitutional obligation to engage in consultations with stakeholders and the citizenry of Guyana before enacting legislation

It clarified that while Article 13 of the Constitution provides opportunities for citizen participation in decision - making processes, it does not require the Legislature or Executive to consult with every citizen individually when enacting laws.

VOICE OF THE PEOPLE

The court held that the elected representatives serve as the voice of the people, and the Constitution does not demand that each citizen becomes a representative or that every law requires a referendum.

“ The system envisaged by the Claimants effectively nullifies the need for elected representatives since every citizen would still have to be consulted before a law can be enacted Every Bill would essentially be subject to a referendum ,” Justice Singh said Regarding the alleged

denial of participation to opposition members during the debate on the NRF Bill, the court found that the evidence presented by the claimants was inconclusive

The court highlighted discrepancies in the testimony of Jones, who claimed to have submitted a speaking list but failed to produce supporting evidence.

The court also related that the Clerk of the National Assembly did not recall the submission of a speaking list, and testified that he did not witness any attempt by an opposition member to indicate their desire to speak

The court also found that the Speaker of the National Assembly did not fail or refuse to afford or permit members of the Opposition participation in the debate on the NRF Bill

The evidence presented does not establish that the speaking list was submitted to the Speaker , and there is no record of opposition member, Khemraj Ramjattan, indicating his desire to speak during the debate

Justice Singh concluded that the claimants’ constitutional challenge to the passage of the NRF Act based

The Guyana Chronicle had previously reported that on December 29, 2021, in a bid to defend the landmark Bill, which has since been assented to by President Dr Irfaan Ali, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance , Dr Ashni Singh , was interrupted by what was referred to as the unparliamentary actions of members of the Opposition

The second reading of the Bill was objected to by Jones , who requested that it be sent to a special select committee

However , the Speaker of the National Assembly , Manzoor Nadir indicated his preference for listening to the arguments from both sides before determining whether or not the Bill should be sent to a select committee

Minister Singh then took to the podium , but his presentation was interrupted by members of the APNU+AFC Opposition, who kept banging their desks and chanting demeaning words about the Bill

After they failed to prevent Minister Singh from speaking, Opposition Parliamentarian Annette Ferguson attempted to remove the Mace, but was unsuccessful

This unprecedented act was foiled by Nadir’s personal assistant , who held the instrument tightly as he laid on the floor of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Opposition Members of Parliament attempting to steal the Speaker’s Mace

Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall S.C. Trade Unionist, Norris Witter

Justice Navindra Singh

Opposition Chief Whip, Christopher Jones

GTT connects more than 150,000 homes, businesses to ‘fibre’ service

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company ( GTT ), on Monday , announced that 150,000 homes and businesses now have access to its highspeed fibre service, after recently making the service available to more than 1,100 homes and 170 businesses in Tuschen on the West Coast of Demerara, Region Three

The company is the first to deliver Fibre technology to Guyanese and technicians have since worked assiduously to roll out more than 3,000 miles ( about 4828.03 km) of fibre thus far

Through its fibre deployment , two in every three homes now have access to fibre services, as the company further commits to ensuring over 75 per cent of homes will have fibre connectivity by the end of 2024

Chief Executive Officer ( CEO ) of GTT Damian Blackburn, said that GTT recognises the vital role connectivity plays in em-

powering individuals, facilitating business growth, and enhancing quality of life

“ This achievement reflects our commitment to transforming lives through advanced telecommunication solutions, and we are excited to continue driving positive change in Guyana By rolling out fibre to two in every three homes, we are unlocking endless possibilities for education, entrepreneurship , healthcare , and socio - economic development,” he said Blackburn added that GTT’s dedication to delivering reliable connectivity ensures that customers can fully embrace the digital world and enjoy uninterrupted access to information , entertainment , and online services

The company ’ s fibre service has significantly strengthened communities across Guyana, by enabling students to participate in remote learning, empowering entrepreneurs to leverage e-commerce opportunities

By embracing innova -

Dharamlall denies all allegations against him

–– lawyer says minister stands ready to assist in a full investigation

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, has sought the services of the Hughes, Fields & Stoby law firm to represent him and safeguard his interests amidst allegations of misconduct levelled against him

In a statement released by the law firm, it was said that Mr Dharamlall is prepared to fully cooperate with any investigation regarding the allegations

The release stated: “Mr Dharamlall remains willing and disposed to assist in a full investigation of the matter All the allegations are denied.”

The firm further urged the public and the media to refrain from engaging in speculation, making wild accusations, forming premature judgments, or drawing unsupported conclusions

“In the interest of a fair investigation and the necessity to protect the interests of all parties concerned, we urge that speculation, wild accusations, premature judgments and unsupported conclusions be avoided,” the release said

As the legal proceedings progress, the focus of the investigation will be on ensuring a fair process and protecting the interests of all parties involved

Hughes, Fields & Stoby said that until further advised by his attorneys, no further statements will be issued by or on behalf of Dharamlall

The case is currently being investigated by the Guyana Police Force and the Child Care and Protection Agency Minister Dharamlall has denied the allegation and has proceeded on administrative leave to allow the investigation.

tion, GTT is ensuring that Guyana remains at the forefront of digital transformation and can readily adapt to emerging technologies

To celebrate the massive 150,000 accomplishment, the company will be throwing a free public concert titled “150K Fete,” at the Marriott Hotel on Friday June 23 Performing live will be Farmer Nappy and Teddyson John, among several local stars including Calvin Burnett and Steven Ramphal Patrons will get the opportunity to win 150 prizes plus cash

The company said it remains committed to advancing connectivity and creating a digital future that benefits all Guyanese.

One giant leap for food safety

from space travel to COVID-19, the food hygiene code has stood the test of time

THE year was 1969 Final plans for travel to the moon were being finetuned . On the checklist had been how to keep food safe for the astronauts during a spaceflight. Food-borne illnesses in the United States, and indeed worldwide , in the 1960s were not a rarity

So in the years leading up to lift-off, NASA worked with the Pillsbury Company and the United States Army Laboratories to ensure that the astronauts orbiting in space would not get sick from the food prepared for the flight , a situation that could be detrimental to the mission and safety of the spacemen The team approached food safety the way it tested engineering reliability: by checking the weak points in the system

Food can become unsafe through a variety of “hazards” that can be biological, chemical or physical , but ultimately make the food unsafe for human consumption By assessing the hazards and knowing where the critical control points , i e the potential weak spots, are, problems can be prevented Prior to this approach, issues were identified solely in the end product , sometimes only once it reached the customer with often dire consequences

This change in approach, focusing on prevention , marked a major shift in thinking and in the industry, a shift that, like space travel, has stood the test of time

During this period, another body was focused more on earthlings and making these standards international for the sake of everyone on the planet, not just in space Gathering in Geneva , Switzerland , the Joint FAO / WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission endorsed a “food code” that would serve as the backbone for all hygiene-related food standards for the next 50 plus years

This body aimed to have every food business operator , whether a colossal ,

industrial processing facility or a vendor with a cart, implement a systemic way of preventing , controlling or removing contamination from food so that it would not make people sick The gathering led to the creation of the General Principles of Food Hygiene, a document that set out to accomplish just that.

This code follows the food chain from production to consumer, setting out the necessary hygiene conditions or good hygiene practices (GHPs) for producing food which is safe and suitable for consumption It recommends the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point ( HACCP ) approach when GHPs may not be sufficient to ensure food safety due to the complexity of the food operation or specific hazards associated with the product or process This science-based, preventative system identifies and evaluates hazards which are significant for food safety and implements measures for their control HACCP is in use around the world today and this month has gained importance and prominence in the code

Food-business operators need to know and understand the hazards associated with the food they produce, transport, store and sell, so they can take measures to control them and be sure that their products are safe and suitable for consumers

The Codex Alimentarius Commission also provides a large reservoir of commodity standards on everything from canned fruit cocktail to mango chutney . Each commodity has a set of standards that it should live up to, but all of them refer back to the General Principles of Food Hygiene when it comes to ensuring their safety for consumers

Good personal hygiene practices in the manufacturing of food have been at the foundation of this work since the ‘60s When hygienic standards are followed correctly, viruses or microbes harmful to hu -

mans should not be spread through food - manufacturing practices For example, when the COVID-19 pandemic began , food - business operators following the general principles of food hygiene and implementing good manufacturing practices already had the kind of food safety culture required to prevent the spread of the virus in their facilities or on their premises

In 2020, the Codex Alimentarius Commission updated the food code with more in-depth guidance on the management of allergens With allergies a growing area of concern in the world, Codex is continuing its work in this area and is in the process of strengthening its related food - labelling requirements

Another important update, one that can even help address issues of water scarcity , is that the code now differentiates between acceptable water quality levels based on its intended use Not all water usage , such as watering crops for example , requires potable water The focus is rather on ensuring that water is fit for its intended purpose This distinction can reduce the stress on drinking water and have wide-reaching benefits for saving this increasingly scarce natural resource

Thanks to the visionary approach of Codex in those early years, scientific knowledge about how to safely prepare and handle food was turned into standards that regulatory authorities and the food industry are still using today to monitor and continually improve food hygiene

There is one basic principle: if it is not safe, it is not food Next time you go into your local café or restaurant , or even buy food from the grocery store , remember that these food standards are in place to keep you from getting sick That is what Codex aims for: to ensure safe food for all people around the world, or those orbiting it too. (FAO)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Tuesday June 20, 2023)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Len Hutton-364 (The Oval, 1938) (2) Don Bradman-334 (Leeds, 1930)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What are the best Test innings bowling figures by an Englishman against AUST to date?

(2) What are the best Test innings bowling figures by an Australian against ENG to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

RACING TIPS

English Racing Tips Ascot

09:30 hrs Inspiral

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10:40 hrs Manaccan

11”20 hrs Paddington

12:00 hrs Novel Legend

12:35 hrs Bolshoi Ballet

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Thirsk

08:50 hrs Crocus Time

09:20 hrs Cloud Cover

09:55 hrs Blazing Son

10:30 hrs Cliffcake

11:10 hrs Endless [Power

11:45 hrs Mereside Angel

12:25 hrs Lexington

Knight

Beverley

12:40 hrs Cloud Fre

13:15 hrs Sub Rosa

13:45 hrs How Bizarre

14:15 hrs Spring Is Sprung

14:45 hrs Bungley

15:15 hrs Urban Road

15:45 hrs Sun Festival

American Racing Tips

Finger Lakes

Race 1 Flurry Of Roses

Race 2 Bold Lee

Race 3 Reiner

Race 4 Hangout

Race 5 Smart Storm

Race 6 Tuckabuckaway

Race 7 Sweet Sugar Baby

Irish Racing Tips Wexford

08:40 hrs Inclusion

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PSG close to appointing former Spain manager Luis Enrique as new boss

Afcon 2023: Sudan players hope to 'bring joy' to war-torn nation

FRENCH champions Paris St-Germain (PSG) are close to appointing Luis Enrique as their new manager.

PSG have not yet confirmed the exit of boss Christophe Galtier, but it is widely assumed his spell at the club will come to an end this summer.

Galtier, 56, was appointed as Mauricio Pochettino's successor in July 2022 but

fell short of expectations.

Luis Enrique has been linked with numerous jobs since leaving Spain after the World Cup in Qatar.

PSG turned to the 53-year-old after talks with former Bayern Munich manager Julian Nagelsmann ended without agreement.

Luis Enrique made his name as a player with Barcelona before becoming head coach at the Nou Camp

between 2014 and 2017.

PSG are intent on resetting the club and trying to build a team rather than continuing the policy of signing a collection of expensive high-profile players, which has so far failed to deliver the Champions League success demanded by the club's Qatari owners.

Galtier made a strong start to life in the French capital, avoiding defeat in

22 games across all competitions, and PSG sat five points clear at the top of Ligue 1 when the season paused for the World Cup. However, they lost nine times after club football resumed and limped over the line to finish just a point clear of Lens in the league, while exiting the Champions League in the last 16 to Bayern. (BBC Sport).

Two international matches abandoned after alleged racist abuse

TWO international matches were abandoned on Monday following allegations of racial abuse.

New Zealand said they refused to play the second half against Qatar after saying Michael Boxall was abused by a Qatari player during the first half.

The Republic of Ireland

Under-21s' friendly with Kuwait also ended early after an alleged racist remark.

The Football Association

of Ireland said a Kuwait Under-22 player made the remark to a Republic substitute.

Both matches were taking place in Austria, with New Zealand beating Qatar 1-0 in Vienna and the Republic U21s leading 3-0 against Kuwait in Bad Radkersburg before the abandonments.

"Michael Boxall was racially abused during the first half of the game by a Qatari player," New Zealand posted on their Twitter account.

"No official action was taken so the team have agreed not to come out for the second half of the match."

The FAI said it will report the incident during the Kuwait match to FIFA and UEFA.

"The FAI regrets to announce that today's U21 international against Kuwait has been abandoned after a racist remark was made by a Kuwaiti player towards one of our substitutes," said the

FAI's statement.

"The FAI does not tolerate any racism towards any of our players or staff and will be reporting this serious matter to FIFA and UEFA."

Last week, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr will lead a special anti-racism committee made up of players which will suggest stricter punishments for discriminatory behaviour in football.(BBC Sport)

Hashem says Sudan are looking to bring joy to football fans in the wartorn country by clinching qualification for next year's Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

Sudan face Mauritania today, knowing a win will take them top of Group I with one game remaining.

The Secretary Birds are the home side but are being forced to train and play in Morocco because of the ongoing conflict in their country.

"[It is] very difficult to be far from your country, land and stadium," Hashem told BBC Sport Africa.

"But we count on determination and persistence, and all my colleagues are aware of this task."

Sudan's 1-0 win against Gabon in their previous qualifier has raised hopes of a second successive appearance at an Afcon finals.

The 1970 champions played that game in front of their own fans in Omdurman on 27 March, three weeks before the conflict led the national federation to suspend all football in the country.

"We have to forget the circumstances in which my country is living today,"

"We have to focus on football in order to bring joy to the Sudanese people - who need joy to mitigate their suffering and forget their circumstances, even for a few days."

Sudan head coach Badou Zaki, who was only appointed in March, helped choose the venue for both the current training camp and the match with Mauritania at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir.

The team has already played several warm-up matches in their new North African home.

Hashem insists the game against Mauritania goes beyond what happens on the pitch and represents an opportunity to unify all Sudanese.

"Our victory may help stabilise Sudan," said the 27-year-old.

"We are counting on the spirit of the group and our goal is to take the name of Sudan high."

A win and a draw from their final two games will be enough to book Sudan's place at the tournament in Ivory Coast.

The team's final group game will be away at current group leaders the Democratic Republic of Congo in September. (BBC Sport).

MIDFIELDER Muataz

added Hashem.

Sudan will move to the top of Group I with one game to go if they beat Mauritania today

Luis Enrique left his role as Spain’s boss after they were knocked out of the World Cup by Morocco in the last 16

World Cup qualifier...

Hasaranga, Mendis, Samarawickrama lead Sri Lanka’s win in campaign opener

..Sri Lanka's top four scored fifties before Hasaranga ran through UAE with figures of 6 for 24

SADEERA Samarawickrama and Kusal Mendis led a quartet of half-centuries from Sri Lanka as they dominated UAE and enjoyed a winning start to their World Cup Qualifier campaign in Zimbabwe.

Openers Dimuth

Karunaratne and Pathum

Nissanka also struck fifties as Sri Lanka posted 355 for 6. Their attack was without Dushmantha Chameera, who was sidelined with a shoulder strain, but Wanindu Hasaranga bagged career-best List A figures of 6 for 24 to wreck UAE's chase. Maheesh Theekshana and Dhananjaya de Silva backed Hasaranga up

World Cup Qualifier..

Prajapati leads Oman's batting charge to stun Ireland

…Dockrell's unbeaten and careerbest 91 goes in vain for Ireland

as UAE were rolled over for 180 in 39 overs.

Allrounder Ali Naseer stood out amid the UAE rubble, following up his sharp spell of 2 for 44 in his ten overs with a sprightly cameo. Since making his ODI debut against West Indies earlier this month in Sharjah, Naseer has made scores of 58, 57, 13, and 34 in four innings in addition to fronting up to bowl the difficult overs.

(Scores: Sri Lanka 355 for 6 (Mendis 78, Samarawickrama 73, Naseer 2-44) beat UAE180 (Waseem 39, Aravind 39, Hasaranga 6-24)

On Monday, Sri Lanka's top four saw him off and lined up the other bowlers.

Mendis treated wristspinner Karthik Meiyappan with contempt, taking him for 36 off 18 balls

. Having sussed out that Meiyappan was repeatedly dipping into his wrong'un and not threatening the stumps enough, Mendis attacked him with a variety of sweeps.

Contrastingly, Hasaranga and Theekshana didn't give up the stumps and didn't give UAE's batters as many chances to employ the sweep.

Samarawickrama also played a number of inventive strokes during his 64-ball 73, the pick of them being a ramped four off Naseer in the 44th over. Samarawickrama had initially shaped to scoop

the ball over short fine leg, but Naseer shifted his line even wider of off.

Samarawickrama was so switched on that he changed his shot at the last instant and ramped it over wicketkeeper Vriitya Aravind. He had forged a 105-run partnership for the third wicket with Mendis off 77 balls, which formed the cornerstone of Sri Lanka's innings.

Before they had got together, Nissanka and Kartunaratne had also done their bit by countering the early-morning swing and seam movement. Karunaratne was the more fluent of the two openers and was responsible for six of the nine fours Sri Lanka had scored in the

powerplay.

But Sri Lanka had to wait until the 48th over for their first six. Charith Asalanka injected greater urgency into the innings when he shanked Muhammad Jawadullah over wide long-on for six. Then in the next over, he launched Rohan Mustafa for another imposing six. Hasaranga joined the hitting spree in the final over, thumping Zahoor Khan for three fours off four balls.

Hasaranga then ran rings around UAE in their chase, though some of their players have played with - or against - Hasaranga during the inaugural ILT20. They struggled to pick his wrong'un in particular as the wristspinner went on to record his maiden five-wicket haul in ODI cricket.

Naseer aside, UAE captain Muhammad Waseem (39) and vice-captain Aravind (39) were the only batters to pass 30 in the chase.

When the two teams last met at the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022, Meiyappan picked up a hat-trick, and overshadowed Hasaranga, who was his senior during his IPL stint as a net bowler at Royal Challengers Bangalore.

On Monday, it was Hasaranga, the master, who bossed his protégé and UAE.(Cricinfo)

ON just the second day of the World Cup Qualifier, Oman brought about the first upset of the tournament by chasing down 282 against much-fancied Ireland with five wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare in Bulawayo.

Kashyap Prajapati, Aqib Ilyas and captain Zeeshan Maqsood all scored crucial fifties as Oman went about the chase with utmost professionalism. At no point did they look hurried, they stitched partnerships at every corner and registered a historic maiden ODI win against a Full Member nation to spark off delirious scenes in the dugout

(Scores: Oman 285 for 5 (Prajapati 72, Maqsood 59, Ilyas 52, Adair 2-47, Little 2-47) beat Ireland 281 for 7 (Dockrell 91*, Tector 52, Bilal 2-64, Butt 2-65) by five wickets

.That Ireland reached 281 was down to George Dockrell's career-best 89-ball 91 after Oman's spinners had the Ireland batters on a leash in the middle overs.

Sent in to bat, the new opening pair of Andy McBrine and Paul Stirling hit their straps immediately, adding 51 runs in nine overs.

With the 9am start, there was a lot of movement on offer for the fast bowlers, but the Oman quicks Fayyaz Butt and Bilal Khan failed to capitalise and gave away too many freebies.

However, almost against the run of play, Ireland lost both openers off consecutive balls. Having just nailed a pull the previous ball off Bilal, Stirling went for the same shot to a similar ball. The difference being a fielder had just moved to deep backward square leg and Stirling toe-ended his pull straight down his throat. The very next ball, McBrine picked out mid-off to an innocuous short ball outside off.

Things got worse for Ireland, with captain Andrew Balbirnie falling for a 19-ball 7 as they lost 3 for 18 in seven overs. It was a trial by spin for Ireland, with the trio of Maqsood, Ayaan Khan and Jay Odedra tying them up.

Lorcan Tucker was cleaned up by Ayaan, but Dockrell and Harry Tector added 79 runs for the fifth wicket. Tector fell after his fifty, but Dockrell took the innings deep. He helped Ireland slam 86 runs off the final ten overs. But the fact that they faced 157 dot balls in their innings was always going to haunt them.

At no stage did Oman look out of depth in the chase. The bright sunshine did make things easier for batters, but the nervelessness with which Oman got about the chase was a sight to behold.

Mark Adair got the ball to hoop around up top, and had Jatinder Singh edging to second slip. Prajapati and Ilyas, however, made sure the required run rate never got out of hand. They kept the good balls out and capitalised on the loose ones.

Ilyas targeted Graham Hume by slamming him for three successive fours in the seventh over. The duo added 94 runs off 88 balls for the second wicket before Ilyas top-edged Dockrell to short fine leg.

Maqsood came in at No. 4 and added a 63-run stand with Prajapati and then a 56-run partnership with Mohammad Nadeem. At no point did the required rate go above six an over as the Oman batters got the boundaries regularly and rotated the strike brilliantly.

Maqsood reached his fifty off 58 balls and while he fell soon after, there were no flutters in the Oman camp. Nadeem (46 not out), Ayaan (21) and Shoaib Khan (19) all played their part as Oman cantered home. (Cricinfo)

Wanindu Hasaranga registered his career-best List A figures•ICC/Getty Images

Kusal Mendis top-scored for Sri Lanka with 78 • ICC/Getty Images

Kashyap Prajapati scored a free-flowing 72 • ICC/Getty Image

Edgbaston Ashes classic brewing as Stuart Broad breaks game open

AN Edgbaston Ashes classic is brewing. England batted frantically for two sessions on the fourth day to set Australia a target of 281 to win the first Test, and Stuart Broad took two late wickets to remove Marnus Labuschagne and Steven Smith and leave the game in the balance overnight.

Australia's pursuit started with the biggest partnership of the day as David Warner and Usman Khawaja added 61. But then Ollie Robinson cracked the game open, inducing a thin outside edge from Warner to bring Labuschagne to the crease on a king pair and give the raucous Hollies Stand an early-evening pick-me-up.

The stage was set for Broad, who became the game's protagonist as he bounded in from the Pavilion End. Labuschagne, who had reached 13, was beaten by his first ball and dismissed by his fourth, unable to avoid the temptation of chasing a wide one in the channel outside his off stump which nipped away to take his outside edge.

Australia 386 and 107 for 3 (Khawaja 34*, Boland 13*, Broad 2-28) need 174 more runs to beat England 393 for 8 declared and 273 (Cummins 4-63, Lyon 4-80)

When Smith walked out, the field was up; so too the volume, as Broad stood at the top of his mark and revved the crowd up once more. Smith swung him away for four, but then edged through to Jonny Bairstow on the bounce and Broad sensed another moment. As Smith shaped to drive through cover, the ball swung in and shaped away off the seam. Bairstow took the catch, Broad peeled away and England had the foothold they were after.

Khawaja walked off unscathed at the close - for the third evening out of four - with nightwatch Scott Boland for company and 174

more required on Tuesday to put Australia one-nil up; England are seven wickets away. With showers forecast in the morning, a tight finish looms in the golden glow of the late-afternoon sunshine.

Joe Root had fought to survive eight balls under thick, dark clouds on Sunday afternoon and decided to free his arms under blue skies on Monday. He attempted to reverse-scoop the first ball of the day over the slip cordon and missed it entirely; he connected with the sixth and seventh, picking up six and then four with

looking to heave Lyon up and over the leg side, but was beaten by the turn. Alex Carey whipped the bails off, and for the first time in his 131-match career, Root was stumped in a Test match.

Josh Hazlewood and Lyon dried England up as Ben Stokes looked to play himself into some kind of rhythm. He survived a convincing lbw shout off Lyon which Australia reviewed unsuccessfully, but Brook fell while trying to force the initiative with a pull off the same bowler, straight to short midwicket.

Gajanand Singh dedicates ODI ton to late dad on Father’s Day

mins for four then slogswept Lyon for six, but gloved a pull behind as Hazlewood returned for his second spell to expose the tail. Robinson added 27 useful runs, surviving a shortball barrage before lofting Lyon straight to Cameron Green at long-on, and James Anderson managed a couple of boundaries then steered Cummins into a sprawling Carey's left hand.

Cummins and Lyon shared eight wickets and struck regularly, with England's batting in a state of hyperactivity. Ten of their

…says Scoring a century against WI wasn't the dream

the same audacious shot.

Pat Cummins spread the field in a bid to stem the flow as Root and Ollie Pope traded boundaries, but he produced a ball that made his team-mates redundant.

From wide on the crease, he sent down a booming inswinger that snuck underneath Pope's bat and ripped his off stump out the ground.

Harry Brook joined Root and made a fast start, picking length early and taking 13 runs from Nathan Lyon's first over of the day.

Root himself continued at a quick tempo and by drinks, England had scored at 6.88 runs an over in the morning, adding 93 in 13.3 overs.

But four runs short of his half-century, Root ran past one. He skipped down to a sharply-spun offbreak,

Bairstow was given out in the over before lunch, struck on the pad by a Boland in-ducker, but successfully overturned the decision and tried to push on after the interval, taking Cummins for back-to-back boundaries. His innings proved to be England's latest cameo: trying to reverse-sweep Lyon, he was trapped leg-before.

Australia were on top and tried to turn the screw, appealing in every other over. Labuschagne was convinced he had taken a blinding catch at short leg to dismiss Robinson, only for replays to confirm he had grounded it, and then convinced Cummins into burning their final review when Robinson played-andmissed at a short one.

Moeen Ali slashed Cum-

11 batters reached double figures but nobody made a half-century, and the most substantial partnership - between Root and Brook - was worth just 52.

After Khawaja edged Anderson through the gap between Bairstow and Root to pick up a streaky boundary through the slips, Australia's progress was serene. They were aided in no small part by Moeen's struggles with a blistered spinning finger and their seamers' difficulty in finding movement on a slow, dry surface.

That was, at least, until Warner's dismissal prompted that enthralling half-hour passage. If the weather allows, this clash of styles and cultures should go down to the wire. (Cricinfo).

By Sean Devers

ON Father’s Day in Zimbabwe, Guyanese Gajanand Singh, completed an unbeaten maiden ODI ton against the West Indies for his adopted Country (USA) in a losing cause in the opening game of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers.

The 35-year-old, from East Canje in Berbice, reached the boundary eight times and cleared it twice in a magnificent 101 from 109 balls to join Shimron Hetmyer (5) as the only two players from the Young Warriors Club to score centuries in ODI Cricket.

Singh shared in partnerships of 42 with former Barbados batter Aaron Jones, 59 with Shayan Jahangir and an unfinished 76 with Nosthush Kenjige who contributed 34 not-out as the USA reached 258-7.

Singh, who represented West Indies at the 2006 ICC U-19 World Cup and also played 10 first class matches for Guyana, gave West Indies a scare as USA fell 39 short of the 297 target.

Four West Indian batters reached 50 but none passed 62 which was made by Johnson Charles.

The left-handed Singh hooked the first ball of the penultimate over from Alzarri Joseph for six while another boundary in the over took him to 97 before he drove Roston Chase to long-on for a single in the last over to reach his ton.

“Scoring an ODI century against WI wasn't the dream, but I am here now and I won't change anything.

I dedicate this hundred to my father (Sahadeo Singh known as Uncle Bush in the Village of Cumberland). I was very emotional since he passed away when I made my ODI debut two years ago. It meant a lot to me” revealed Singh, who made his ODI debut against P.N.G on September 06, 2021.

The century was also a perfect Father’s Day gift for Singh, who is

married to Natalie Singh and has a 10-year-old daughter, Gabriella.

“Planning for this game and staying patient and getting the basics right… in the middle overs working hard and running singles… were the main reasons I scored this hundred. It is always nice to do well with the bat but it would have been better if we had won the game,” explained Singh who has five fifties and a ton from 27 ODIs at a decent average of 37.95.

Singh said that the pitch had a bit in it for both batter and bowler and described the ground which made its international debut, as a wonderful venue adding that he was happy to be the first batter to score a century there.

“I think we played well in patches, and can take a lot of positives from that game. We bowled well up-front and it was good to bowl them out below 300.

But I think we gave away too many runs in the last few overs and dropped too many catches. They have many big hitters and dropping them hurt us in the end but I'm sure we will win games here,” said Singh who is very happy with social media support he has gotten from those in Guyana including posts from the GCB and the Berbice Cricket Board.

When asked what type of bowling he prefers facing, Singh, who lives in the Bronx in New York, informed that conditions determined how he bat spin or pace.

“In different conditions the preference changes I think,” concluded Singh who explained that his favourite cricketer is Brian Charles Lara because of his pure class and control he has when he's at the crease.

Singh, who began his cricket career at the Young Warriors ground which is across a Street from where he grew-up in Guyana, is hoping to score heavily in the remaining games in the qualifiers in Zimbabwe.

Stuart Broad dismissed Marnus Labuschagne for the second time in the match • (AFP/Getty Images)

Gajanand Singh drives majestically for four during his unbeaten ton against West Indies on Sunday

Gajanand Singh dedicated his ton to his dad `Uncle Bush’ who passed away two years ago

Guyana, Guadeloupe battle for Gold Cup spot

Police Falcons prey on Army 31-7 in final league game

THE Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) National 12s tournament concluded on Saturday at National Park rugby field with the final clash between juggernauts Police Falcons and the Guyana Defence Force.

As expected, the scrum was one-sided with the youthful and quicker Police aide arresting the army men 31-7.

Owen Adonis led the charge with two tries; equaling 10 points, while Theo Henry; who also serves as a fitness trainer for several national teams, scored one try and converted one for 7 points. Rickford 'Jimmy' Cummings converted a penalty try for his 7 points while Lionel Holder managed a conversion for his two-point contribution to the Police Falcons victory.

Akeano James; the lone scorer for GDF scored a try and converted it to account for his team's 7 points in the heavy defeat.

However, fans and players were unable to receive the announcement of the winner of the tournament.

If GDF had managed at least a draw, Panthers would've been crowned the 2023 GRFU 12s Champions but Police won and finished level on points with Panthers.

IT will be a winner takes all, a virtual final, when Guyana and Guadeloupe battle for the vacant spot in Group D to be part of the main draw of the Concacaf Gold Cup, when they clash today from 16:30 hours at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.

While the Guyanese are aiming to qualify for the group stage a second time, the men from Guadeloupe are seeking their second consecutive appearance and fifth overall.

Guadeloupe were the most impressive looking team on the field during the opening round, soaring past Antigua and Barbuda with a 5-0 victory. Guyana, on the other hand, battled tooth and nail to edge past Grenada in a penalty shootout.

Guadeloupe received goals from five different players and controlled their match from start to finish. Matthias Phaeton didn’t get his goal until the 93rd minute but was excellent off the bench and notched an assist as well.

Les Gwada Boys are now looking to advance to the group stage for the fifth time, and second consecutive time.

Omari Glasgow scored the big goal for Guyana in their win, a powerful shot from well outside the penalty area. The 19-year-old is a dynamic player and has been able to create chances from thin air during his international career so far. Goalkeeper Kai McKenzie-Lyle was solid in goal and made a huge save in the penalty shootout to give the Golden Jaguars the edge.

A win for Guyana would send them to the group stage for just the second time ever, following an appearance in 2019 when they finished third in their group.

The winner of this match will be placed into Group D alongside Canada, Guatemala, and Cuba.

Golden Jaguars 23-man Squad:

Defenders: Samuel Cox, Kadel Daniel, Jeremy Garrett, Liam Gordon, Jonathan Grant, Jalen Jones, Curtez Kellman, Leo Lovell and Marcus Simmons.

Forwards: Kelsey Benjamin, Trayon Bobb, Stephen Duke-Mckenna, Omari Glasgow, Callum Harriott, Tre Mitford, Deon Moore, Emery Welshman

Goalkeepers: Akel Clarke, Kai McKenzie-Lyle and Renell Mckenzie-Lyle

Midfielders: Elliot Bonds, NeilDanns and Daniel Wilson.

In addition, poor record keeping has not allowed the officials to award a winner through points scored.

According to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GRFU, Godfrey Broomes, "The tournament officials are currently deliberating what will be the move forward but it is very likely that there will be a playoff match between Police and Panthers to determine the champions."

Broomes added that while it is unfortunate that the champion couldn't be crowned on Saturday, he is sure that the players will relish the opportunity to play an extra game since this tournament was well received by the stakeholders.

Will these be the joyous scenes for Guyana at the end of the match? Time will tell

Theodore Henry (with ball) scored one try and one conversion for Police Falcons while Owen Adonis (left) led with two tries. (Adrian Narine Photo)