Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21-06-2023

‘Our interest is to make lives better’

President Ali reaffirms, commits to remedy drainage, security issues in Lamaha Gardens, Newtown, Kitty communities

PRESIDENT , Dr . Irfaan Ali , on Tuesday , reiterated his commitment to continue fostering development in communities across the country and working along with stakeholders within these areas for the betterment of their constituencies.

The President made those remarks during impromptu visits to the Lamaha Gardens community and Newtown Kitty area with the newly elected constituency representative, Alfonso De Armas

During his visit to those areas, a major concern for residents was that of security, especially regarding street lights Additionally, the other priority issues were related to drainage and the easy flooding of commu-

nities

While he was on the ground, the Head of State also had with him several technical personnel from the Ministry of Public Works and other agencies to address those concerns

Further, President Ali committed to having a team return to the communities at the end of this week to decide which of those issues will be tackled first

While in Newtown Kitty, he said: “As I said during the campaign in local government , I ’ ll be in every community and will be working in Georgetown, every single community on the ground, to listen to people and talk to people on your development needs.”

Dr Ali said that the government promised that

it will be listening to the residents and working directly with them to resolve pertinent issues

He went on to say : “ Our interest here is to make your lives better, is to bring improvement to every household , every community and make people’s lives better that is my concern, how can we work with you to make life better to ensure that you have a better standard of living.”

According to President Ali , with younger and fresh faces who came on board to be a part of the local government system, the PPP/C is demonstrating a new style of leadership and how this would better contribute to togetherness and the development of stronger communities

The Head of State said this was the beginning of

his visit to various communities across the city and country to reach out to the constituents themselves , and to ascertain what their priorities are concerning the development of their communities

Dr Ali affirmed that whatever decision the residents in the two communities come to on Friday concerning the drainage, security and other issues, the government will be moving to action within one month

“So, you will see me in the communities , you will see us coming around, especially when we launch the new programmes , the safe city programme , the safe country programme and the lighting programme, which will be very, very key to us,” President Ali said.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (left) interacting with community members in the Lamaha Gardens area on Tuesday He was accompanied by recently elected constituency representative, Alfonso De Armas (right)

$560.7M St Mary’s Secondary School to house 600 students

THE Ministry of Education (MoE), on Tuesday, signed six contracts totaling $560.7 million for the re-construction of the St Mary’s High School, which will be built on its previous location on Brickdam.

The building will be a three-storey structure, with the upper flat containing 10 classrooms, the second floor will have another 12 classrooms along with teachers ’ staffroom and sanitary block , and the lower flat will have six labs including for information technology , science and technology , home economics, and industrial technology.

There will also be a canteen and auditorium on the lower flat The building will have the capacity to house approximately 600 students

Like all of the secondary schools currently being built, the school will be equipped with several fire prevention systems including fire escape exits, escape doors, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers The building design also incorporates limited timber usage, metal ceilings and fire retardant ceiling panels

The work was separated into six lots to allow for faster completion, and is scheduled to be completed in six to seven months due to this

The contracts for the rebuilding were signed at a brief ceremony held at the Ministry of Education ’ s boardroom , and was attended by Minis -

ter of Education , Priya Manickchand; Permanent Secretary of the Education Ministry , Alfred King ,

and Special Projects Officer at the ministry, Ron Eastman

Lot one of the building,

which covers the construction of the super structure, is valued at $286.194 million and was awarded to

K & S General Construction Inc The same company was also awarded Lot two - block works ,

which is valued at $135.59 million

Additionally, lot three which includes plumbing works and lot five that encompasses external works, were both awarded to A Ograsein and Sons General Contracting These contracts are worth $12.97 million and $ 33.38 million, respectively

Cummings Electrical Company Ltd was awarded the $ 25.868 million contract for lot four, which includes electric works , and R & D Engineering Services was awarded the $66.663 million contract for lot six, which encompasses finishing works

The contracts for the St Mary’s Secondary follows the signing of contracts for the reconstruction of the Christ Church and St George ’ s Secondary Schools, both of which had been destroyed by separate fires

In brief remarks during the signing ceremony , Minister Manickchand related that the signing of the contracts to see the realisation of the secondary school marked another step towards the ministry’s target towards achieving universal secondary education

She said that over the last three years, the Ministry of Education has been working assiduously to achieve that goal by extending and rebuilding a number of secondary schools, while a number of new secondary schools are also being established.

An artist's impression of the new St Mary’s Secondary building

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand (fourth from left) along with Permanent Secretary Alfred King (centre) and representatives of the various contractors

Energy security creates bold new era of regional co-operation

AT the opening session of the Suriname Energy Oil and Gas Summit (SEOGS), strong statements of regional co - operation were made by representatives of Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname in the area of regional Energy security

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud who represented Guyana engaged in a Ministerial Roundtable with Albert Ramdin , the Minister of

Foreign Affairs of Suriname, and Stuart Young, Minister of Energy in Trinidad and Tobago where the need for a strategic alliance in energy security was underscored

This Roundtable discussion centred on Strategic Regional Co-operation, with particular focus on energy Among the sentiments expressed were strong calls for regional co-operation in energy, which will become a key driver of economic

growth and regional integration in the years to come

In this forum, the Foreign Secretary relayed that the region is on the verge of a new and bold era of co-operation, where energy can act as an impetus for renewed and reinvigorated economic and political co-operation in the region

He continued to express that cheap and reliable energy underpins strong economic growth and , in the case of Guyana, will be used as a platform on which longterm growth and sustainable policies will be enacted , especially in the arena of food security and given the leadership being offered to the CARICOM region by President Dr Irfaan Ali

He continued that an important caveat is that there must be a balanced approach to this regional development and expansion of the energy industry with particular attention to the environment In this regard, according to Persaud, Guyana is a global leader and will avail itself to inform such an approach to other countries

The CARICOM states representative concluded by committing to the development of the energy industry in a manner that puts its people first, protects the environment , and safeguards the interests of future generations

To maximise the benefits to this approach, they reasoned that strong, strategic,

and renewed regional collaboration will be needed and all committed to same

The Suriname Energy

Oil and Gas summit started in Paramaribo on Monday and will conclude on Thursday.

Guyana ’ s Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud (right) alongside Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister, Stuart Young (centre) and Suriname’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin

Jamaican entities urged to protect clients’ data when using AI

WITH more local organisations now embracing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their operations, entities are being urged to protect clients’ data at all costs when using the system.

Minister of Science , Energy, Telecommunications and Transportation

Daryl Vaz made the appeal recently while speaking at the SalesCon360 Conference and Technology Expo at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston

“Data has become the lifeblood of modern enterprises It fuels AI algo-

rithms, enabling them to learn, predict, and deliver personalised experiences to consumers. However, with great power comes great responsibility,” the minister said

The Data Protection Act 2020 outlines how businesses and other institutions must process customers’ personal data

Under this legislation processing means any possible use of information that can identify a living person or someone who has been dead for up to 30 years

“As custodians of personal information , we must ensure that data is

Minister of Science , Energy , Telecommunications and Transportation Daryl Vaz addresses the recent SalesCon360 Conference and Technology Expo at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston (Photo: JIS)

used ethically, transparently, and in compliance with privacy regulations Customers should have clear and comprehensive information about how their data is collected , used , and stored ,” Vaz said

“Obtaining expressed consent before processing personal data, unless exceptions exist , is not only a legal requirement but also an ethical imperative We must strive to build a culture of trust by providing individuals with meaningful choices and control over their data,” he added Vaz emphasised that

AI is a transformative force in the rapidly evolving digital landscape , adding that its benefits are far-reaching and enable businesses to

leverage large amounts of data to gain insights, optimise processes, and engage customers in unprecedented ways. (Jamaica Observer)

AMONG the several areas where the PPP/C has made significant progress since it was elected to office following the March 2020 General and Regional Elections, is that of job creation and training opportunities for young people.

During the elections campaign, the PPP/C promised to create 50,000 jobs by the end of its first term in government, should it be returned to office

The PPP/C not only was victorious in the elections, but has also delivered on, and, in some cases, surpassed most of its manifesto promises From all indications, the administration is on course to exceed its employment target Employment in both the oil and non-oil sectors have surpassed expectations, and there are strong indications that the country might have to import certain categories of skilled labourers as the modernisation process picks up momentum

One of the first policy interventions taken by this administration was to fix the broken economy and create jobs. It could be recalled that the previous PNC administration closed down a number of grinding sugar estates, which resulted in thousands of sugar workers being thrown into the bread line

Thousands more were laid off because of their perceived political affiliation, including the several hundreds of community development officers in the hinterland communities

According to Vice President , Dr . Bharrat Jagdeo, the economy is being transformed with key investments in traditional and non-traditional areas in order to ensure that the country’s youths are well positioned to capitalise on the resultant opportunities and to take advantage of the plethora of training opportunities to equip them with important skills

According to the Vice President, the

government has a massive plan to create jobs all across the country In Linden, which was once a depressed community under the APNU+AFC administration, over 1,200 part-time jobs were created along with hundreds of scholarship offerings The same is replicated in all the regions of Guyana

Only recently, the Ministry of Health announced the commencement of a hybrid training programme for nurses to man the delivery of an expanding range of health services throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.

According to the Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, this is an innovative approach which will see an expansion of the sector including infrastructural development and enhanced training of health personnel

Of interest to note is the fact that the hybrid training programme has generated great interest and the initial target of 1,000 was surpassed. The programme

APNU crossover voters to Lowe: Beat It!

Dear Editor,

I read with amusement

Sherwood Lowe ’ s claim that voters trashed APNU at the LGE because of something he calls “dependency.”

The only dependency that surfaced in the 2023

LGE was , in fact APNU ’ s predictable dependency on race-baiting, combined with a dependency on twisting history

During the LGE campaign, APNU was barely visible in person or in symbolic representation Most people did not know even if Mr Norton was in the country

There was a clip of the Hon Annette Ferguson trying to “fight-off’ some determined PPP/C supporters

Ms Ferguson was apparently claiming party ownership of the neighborhood It was quite embarrassing That, Mr Lowe , is what dependency looks like, live, and direct, as we say

Sherwood Lowe has the habit of trying to sound intellectual, but often, makes comical statements about the

economy, vacuous statements about oil and gas, and junior flyweight deposits on politics

His idea that the PPP/C flattened the APNU at LGE 2023 because of the economic dependency of voters is so ludicrous that it surpasses his own party’s claim about vote selling Sherwood Lowe hates the APNU voters who abandoned APNU and went to the PPP / C precisely because they rejected infantile narratives such the economic dependency of voters

Lowe is either too young to know, or too intentionally stubborn to learn what economic dependency in Guyana meant during the days when his comrades ruled Guyana, and when Guyana was an economic basket case

Let me repeat something that everyone in Guyana and the Caribbean know quite well Guyana is the only country in the world that had a lower per capita GDP at the end of the 1980s, compared to the beginning of the decade.

This , Mr Lowe is why people had to depend on comrades in the PNC to get jobs,

medicine, groceries, gasoline and kero, and schoolbooks

Employment Opportunities Education Ministry rejects ‘9newsbreak’ report

There were no contracts to give out because the country was bankrupt

Those that read my letters know that I am dogged about evidence , and accordingly I must provide few quotes from Lowe to illustrate the sheer comicality of his twisted view Here he is in his own words – “I applaud those voters who stood up to the PPP’s coercion and those who voted as a form of protest.” Who voted in protest? Where? Sir, the APNU got a trashing, and there was no protest vote

Lowe gets even bolder with the nonsense towards the backend of his missive Let me quote him again, and readers, do brace yourselves for this Baby Doc bit of nonsense Referring to those who left the APNU and came to the PPP/C, this is what Lowe had to say: “Let us still embrace them as members of the family Let us not allow the PPP to divide us as we seek to build a country where people can enjoy a good life…” Sorry man, they do not want to embrace you They have

already left bro – as in goodbye , we - gone , hasta luego , adieu, kwaherini, sayonara, arrivederci, or in US English, Beat It!

Lowe’s fake magnanimity is staggering How could he at this late stage, after all the attempted rigging in 2020 , the land giveaways after the no - confidence motion , the conjuring of the “Black-Pudding” ideology, and Ogunseye’s racial cacophony, how could he at this rather late stage, try to be “the family” of those that had asked you to stop those practices, as well as the vulgarly undemocratic traditions of the PNC and APNU

Lowe should learn something from LGE 2023 – do not think the APNU race-baiting politics will work forever Voters do not want to deal with that crap anymore

To get voters these days, you must have solid economic policies, strong democratic politics , and the deep institutionalisation of good governance.

Sincerely,

Dr Randolph Persaud

is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation

These are all significant measures in terms of capacity building and institutional strengthening especially in the context of the ongoing modernisation processes and the massive infrastructural programmes currently underway

Indeed, there is a positive correlation between infrastructural development and job creation as is now manifested in the shortage of skilled labourers in the construction sector One consequence of this development is higher and more competitive wages for labour

All of these are significant developments which have a direct impact on the labour market

The PPP/C administration must be commended for the great strides it has been making in terms of job creation and training opportunities.

Dear Editor,

On Monday, June 19, 2023, a Facebook page titled, 9newsbreak, carried a video story relating to the complaint by a schoolgirl that she was sexually assaulted by the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, in which the voice of Adam Harris states that an official of the Ministry of Education accompanied Minister Dharamlall on a visit to the complainant’s family.

Mr Harris says that “following a visit by a team of reporters from a daily newspaper, it was found that Dharamlall during his visit was accompanied by an official from the Education Ministry.”

The Ministry of Education rejects this mischievous lie and categorically states that at no point did any Ministry of Education staff visit the complainant either in the presence of the accused, alone or at all

We ask that news agencies, journalists and politicians be responsible when reporting on such matters, and particularly on any matter in which children are involved

The Ministry of Education further calls on Mr. Harris to withdraw and delete his story and to offer and apology to all the staff of the Ministry Education

Sincerely, The Public Relations Department, Ministry of Education

Editor Navendra Seoraj

Anti-government critics: Hauteur, hubris and pomposity

THERE are anti - government critics living in and out of this country that are relentless in their condemnations of the policies and actions of the Guyana Government.

It would be extremely unwise for one to even suggest that such people should be stopped Free speech and other important values simply evaporate when society does not allow people to voice their dissension and disagreements over the use of power

It is an obligation on the part of citizens, organisations and governments who feel those whose narratives , discourses and polemics are designed to mislead a nation and play with innocent, independent, democratic minds to respond If they do not do so then they allow the playground of mischief to expand

But there is another kind of obligation that comes from the critics themselves They have an obligation to the people who watch, read and listen to them, to explain to them what they mean when they condemn the government and to defend the integrity of the offerings they have publicised.

Failure to do so, leads to accusations of hauteur, hubris, pomposity and expressions of being superior to others, especially the governmental actors they deride

It is not difficult to detect the arrogant posture of those who want government to be transparent, accountable, principled, ethical and all-inclusive This picture is easy to see when government defenders turn to them and level accusations of double standards because they practice the very negativities they accuse power-holders of displaying

I see this hypocrisy on show daily in this country and Guyana is lucky that it has no psychological effects on the citizenry because if it had then democracy would not have survived We saw this with amazing illumination at the 2023 LGE which con-

cluded two Mondays ago

As I argued in my column last Monday, if the lunatic fringe, the usual suspects, privately owned newspapers and online media outfits were effective, it was a psychological impossibility for the ruling party, the PPP to survive the 2023 LGE

For the past three years these formations have been inexorable in their crucifixion on the government that includes the most vulgar, contemptuous and fictional, and overbearing condemnations that included comments on the president’s wife and the clothes he wears from the Stabroek News Despite this tsunami of contempt, the ruling party chalked up impressive gains in 2023 LGE.

To date , the people who operate an overworked machine of anti-government hatred have rejected request for them to be transparent and accountable Let’s offer some examples Who owns certain media houses? Is the public entitled to know this?

The Chronicle is governed by a board

The Guyana Times is owned by businessman, Dr Bobby Ramroop The Kaieteur News (KN) is owned by Mr Glenn Lall Newsroom is owned by the company that operates E-Network

Who owns Demerara Waves, an entity that is not known for any sympathy for the PPP? It is said, a remigrant that writes a daily column in KN, Stabroek News (SN) and Demerara Waves, is the man behind the outlet This man is insanely hostile to the government with propagandistic ranting that many times outshone David Hinds

Who owns SN ? Who are the major shareholders? This columnist was told the two majority shareholders are Isabelle DeCaires and current editor, Anand Persaud Is the pubic entitled to this information? If not, why not?

Mr Mike Mc Cormack who has been the president of the Guyana Human Rights

Association (GHRA) since 1979 (43 years) replied to this columnist to inform him that GHRA has a 12-person board For 43 years now, no one knows who have been and who are on this board

Dr Alissa Trotz edited a column in SN titled, “In the Diaspora” (ITD) for over 10 years now Not one, I repeat, no one contributor to ITD has been an independent political analyst or someone who sees the government with sympathetic eyes

All of the contributors of ITD have been people who view the Guyana Government in an unfavourable light ITD never touched the no-confidence motion, the March 2020 rigged election, the report into the election Dr Trotz has refused over the past four

years to offer any explanation

Co - owner of SN , Isabelle DeCaires , has described democracy in Guyana as dysfunctional This lady administers Moray House, which belongs to her and which holds a monthly symposium on important developments in Guyana Moray House has never touched the no-confidence month or the five month election rigging

A month ago, Ms. DeCaires, who is British, holidayed in Guyana and published a scathing castigation of the government for the traffic situation in Guyana

But she is yet to offer her thoughts on the election report. She wouldn’t. Dr. Trotz wouldn’t. Why? The Scot would say, “Ah dunno.”

Guyanese embrace annual Green Walk and Exhibition on World Environment Day

–– spotlights

LCDS 2030 priority action to tackle plastic pollution

IN honour of World Environment Day, which was observed on June 5, the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) sponsored its annual Green Walk and Exhibition in Guyana on June 4.

The theme of the festival this year is also one of the main programme areas of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 being, “Solutions to plastic pollution.” An EPA delegation led the walk, which started at 6:00 a m near Camp Street and North Road in

consistency, and uniformity The opportunity for like-minded people to network, support sustainable businesses at the exhibition, and have important conversations made the event, in the opinion of the EPA, more than just a walk and exhibition Over the past few weeks, the EPA has planned or taken part in a range of activities to increase public awareness of the environment and how we can all work to better care for it A panel discussion hosted by the EMC Foundation last Friday was one

LCDS in perspective

By Cindy Parkinson

of trash collection and recycling infrastructure , and public awareness and education campaigns

CARICOM is aiding its member states in establishing and upholding national laws and regulations in order to reduce plastic pollution and enhance sustainable development

Examples of nations that have already banned or imposed restrictions on single-use plastics and styrofoam products include Antigua and Barbuda , the Bahamas , Barbados , Belize , Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago

The trade ministers of the CARICOM Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) have considered these restrictions and other trade-related policy measures The Secretariat then commissioned continuing studies to look into the technical and finan-

cial recommendations of plastic alternatives and potential limitations in order to help the member states with their transition

The “Clean Seas Caribbean” regional programme, which urges companies, organisations, and individuals to take action to reduce plastic waste and protect marine biodiversity, was introduced in 2021 with support from the CARICOM member states The campaign supports initiatives including beach cleanups, festivals without plastic, environmentally responsible shopping habits, and innovation competitions

To promote capacity building for implementing international environmental agreements, the CARICOM Secretariat is conducting regional assessments to better understand the plastic waste and solid

See page 9

Georgetown and ended on the National Park’s tarmac There were many delegates from the government and well - known corporations who all understood the importance of working together and their responsibility to ensure a sustainable, pollution-free future

A major priority of LCDS 2030 centres on creating a circular economy In a circular economy, resources are kept in use for as long as possible, the maximum value is extracted from them and then, at the end of their life cycle, they are recovered to regenerate new products and materials

Some progress has been made towards better waste management in Guyana in recent years In 2021, US$5 million was invested to improve solid waste management across the country, while US$7 million is being invested in 2022 for the upgrade of existing disposal facilities However, more work is planned for Guyana to achieve a circular economy by 2030, and LCDS 2030 charts the path to achieving this This will require significant government and private sector investment over many years, but also behavioural change by citizens and businesses so that waste is prevented, as well as better managed Some of the priority actions identified in LCDS 2030 to achieve this include:

• A national recycling system

• New measures to minimise, and where possible eliminate, single-use plastic, batteries, and other specific sources of pollution

• Incentives for improved design of products and services to prevent waste

• Enabling the public sector to act as a leader in pursuing and demonstrating circular economy practices

• Promotion of education measures on avoiding littering and maximising recycling

At the Green Walk event, awards were granted not just for the best chant but also for the best banner, the largest contingent,

of these events The EPA also held an exhibition of artwork commemorating International Day for Biodiversity at the National Gallery of Art

The largest international celebration of the environment, known as World Environment Day, is held every year on June 6 Following its establishment by the UN General Assembly in 1972, this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day Comparably, the Caribbean Community was founded in 1972 and is currently commemorating 50 years of fusion, collaboration, and growth

“

Solutions to plastic pollution” is the focus of 2023. One of the most urgent environmental issues of our time is plastic pollution, which has enormous effects on our oceans, biodiversity, health, and climate A garbage truck’s worth of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute, according to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), which estimates that more than eight million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean annually At every stage of its existence, from production to disposal, plastic emits greenhouse gases At the regional level, this is also a priority action CARICOM is dedicated to combating plastic pollution and advancing sustainable patterns of consumption and production

Here are a few of the initiatives CARICOM is implementing in keeping with the 2023 World Environment Day theme:

In order to lessen the production of plastic waste and its effects on the marine environment and human health, CARICOM has created a regional strategy for the management of marine litter and microplastics The St John’s Declaration, which was developed in 2019 by heads of state and government, outlined the approach and included actions including a ban on single-use plastics, the promotion of circular economy models, the improvement

Guyanese joined EPA on the annual Green Walk and Exhibition

Prime Minister, Brigadier Mark Phillips (in white) and other officials of the EPA last June 4

Guyanese embrace annual Green Walk and Exhibition ...

From page 8

waste management concerns in the region.

The European Commission sponsors the project. Additionally, it is producing manuals for practitioners that include best practices and regulations Also, being examined are many aspects of garbage and recycling, particularly those that involve mercury For the proper handling and disposal of these commodities, see the Minamata Treaty

Senior environmental authorities will meet on June 19 to talk about pressing environmental issues, including how to organise CARICOM involvement in talks for a legally binding global agreement to stop plastic pollution. Later this month, there will be the 108th Special Meeting of the Council of Trade and Economic Development on Environment and Sustainable Development

( COTED ), which will be followed by a meeting of environment ministers CARICOM is taking these and other measures to demonstrate its leadership and commitment to effectively combating plastic pollution and preserving the environment for both present and future generations If we all cooperate on World Environment Day in 2023, the Caribbean can become a cleaner and greener place

At the national level, Guyana LCDS 2030 will advance programmes that enhance climate awareness and behavioural change in addressing all forms of pollution, while promoting responsible consumption patterns, and overall encouragement for safe and healthy well-being amongst all Guyanese ( This is part of a weekly series on LCDS.) The author can be contacted at cparkinson0206@gmail com).

AG, UNDP forge partnership to strengthen Guyana’s criminal justice system

IN a promising collaboration, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall , S.C., on Tuesday, met with a delegation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Guyana.

The meeting, held at the AG’s Chambers on Carmichael Street, unveiled shared ambitions to enhance the country ’ s criminal justice system and address critical challenges

According to a release from the AG’s Chambers, the focal point of the discussion centred on exploring potential programming opportu -

nities aimed at fortifying the institutional capacity of the criminal justice system and effectively reducing the backlog of criminal cases

“The Hon. Attorney General extended appreciation for the meeting and pledged his commitment to collaborate in addressing critical challenges within the justice system and promoting regional collaboration

“He proposed a number of initiatives to be pursued that would significantly address different challenges and which would result in a more efficient functioning criminal justice machinery,” the release said

His dedication to the cause was evident as he briefed the delegation on ongoing programs spearheaded by the Attorney General Chambers and Ministry of Legal Affairs

Notably, he highlighted the Inter - American Development Bank (IDB)-funded Support for the Criminal Justice System (SCJS) Programme, aimed primarily at reducing the prison population

To ensure the continuity of efforts, Nandlall pledged to establish a committee that would maintain close communication with the UNDP This committee will play a vital role in planning and executing a program specifically targeted at tackling the backlog within the criminal justice system , the release added

The UNDP team was headed by Stephanie Ziebell,

Deputy Resident Representative, and included Christalle Gemon, Acting Head of Governance and Poverty Reduction, Sarita Marshall, Programme Associate and Rene Chan, Operations Coordinator

The AG was accompanied by Prithima Kissoon , Public Trustee/Official Receiver.

The delegation thanked Nandlall for the opportunity to delve into shared areas of interest.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall (third from right) flanked by the UNDP Guyana delegation and members of his team (AG’s Chambers photo)

Guyana, French Guiana explore areas for enhanced co-operation

ister,

France

French Guiana

The delegation met with the Prime Minister to discuss opportunities for cooperation and exchanges in health , agriculture , infrastructure, petroleum, education , aviation and the environment, as well as to learn about the government’s vision for the country and ways to strengthen bilateral relations

Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the government’s social, economic, and infrastructural de -

–– as Prime Minister Phillips engage officials from French nation

velopmental programme, and said that Guyana ’ s fast - growing economy provides numerous possibilities through an array of sectors

He said that Guyana welcomes cooperation talks with French Guiana

“ Mr President , your visit comes at the right time when we need to talk about cooperation between our governments and our people Guyana is ready to deepen and foster cooperation, from our government

to your government in all areas ,” Prime Minister Phillips said President Gabriel Serville was accompanied by Deputy Vice - President for Economic Development and Tourism, JeanLuk Le West ; Deputy Vice-President for Cooperation, Thiarrah Steenwinkel; former Minister of Justice - Keeper of the Seals; Christiane Taubira and Director of Guyane Développement Innovation, Eric Lafontaine.

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Tuesday at the Office of the Prime Min-

met with the President of the Assembly of French Guiana, Gabriel Serville; Ambassador of

to Suriname and Guyana, HE Nicolas de Bouillane de Lacoste , and trade officials from

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Tuesday at the Office of the Prime Minister met with the President of the Assembly of French Guiana, Gabriel Serville; Ambassador of France to Suriname and Guyana, HE Nicolas de Bouillane de Lacoste, and trade officials from French Guiana. (Office of the Prime Minister photo)

GUYTRAC signs multibillion-dollar contract with Sinomach –

to provide heavy-duty equipment

GUYANA Tractor and Equipment Company (GUYTRAC) recently signed a multibillion-dollar agreement with SINOMACH-HI International to distribute heavy duty construction equipment

GUYTRAC representative, Sharoj Singh, earlier in June, traveled to Chenzhou City, China, to sign an exclusive dealership and distribution agreement, while Spencer Bao , Sales manager for Latin America and Africa, signed on behalf of Sinomach

Due to the continuous development in Guyana and the current demand for affordable, durable equipment in the construction sector , GUYTRAC hopes to meet

the needs of contractors with the signing of this contract Manager of GUYTRAC, Bony De Andrade, related that contractors often look for durable, affordable and low maintenance equipment, which is exactly what Sinomach brings to the market

A few pieces of equipment have already been acquired by the company However, in a few weeks, a larger batch is expected to arrive for further distribution.

Sinomach’s main business covers trade and services of engineering machinery and products related to heavy industry

They are one of the largest exporters of construction

machinery in China and hold an excellent reputation in overseas markets

Their products cover shovel transportation machinery , compaction machinery , road machinery , excavation machinery, piling machinery, lifting machinery , concrete machinery , municipal sanitation machinery, mining machinery and spare parts, dozens of series, and hundreds of varieties

As GUYTRAC continues to assist in bridging some gaps that the construction sector may face, their US$8 million (approximately GY $ 1.6 billion ) headquarters is expected to be completed by August 2023, at Prospect, on the East Bank

of Demerara (EBD).

At the new location , there will be a one - stop shop where the corporate office and machinery will be available, which would benefit customers as their traveling would be reduced and the consolidation will help to foster further business relations with people on the EBD because it is

closer to the gateway of the interior

The complex will also house a training centre for employees and heavy - duty mechanics , and create employment for over 100 persons

He noted that the building is very distinctive in shape and there will be heavy - duty machinery ,

trucks, as well as a variety of spare parts

GUYTRAC stands poised to provide products to the oil sector, keeping in mind the Government’s Local Content Policy, and has, over the years, supplied various brands of machinery to the country’s agricultural , mining and construction sectors.

GUYTRAC representative, Sharoj Singh, and Spencer Bao, Sales manager for Latin America and Africa, signing the multibillion-dollar contract in Chenzhou, China

General Secretary of renowned international union to address GAWU congress

–– set for August 23, 24 at Arthur Chung Conference Centre

THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union’s (GAWU) General Council has approved August 23 and 24 for the union ’ s 22 nd delegates congress.

This year ’ s congress , according to a press release from GAWU, will be held under the theme: “Advancing Workers’ Rights, Economic Justice and Social Progress.”

The congress, which is the highest forum of the union, will be held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre and will attract delegates and observers from the various workplaces where GAWU enjoys bargaining rights

During the opening session, delegates, observers and special invitees will receive the feature address delivered by Sue Longley, General Secretary of

the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF).

Longley was elected General Secretary of the IUF in 2017 and re-elected a few days ago at the IUF’s World Congress

She is the first woman to hold the post Prior to her election, she served as IUF ’ s Assistant General Secretary from 2016 and from 1994 as the IUF ’ s International Coordinator for Agriculture and Plantations

Longley previously worked for the IUF-affiliated Transport and General Workers Union, now Unite the Union, where she held several posts including Editor of the union’s journal, the Landworker

The IUF rules and their commitment to “ actively

promote the organisation of the world ’ s resources in food for the common good ” have been one of Sue ’ s key priorities and have shaped how she engages with farmers, global food companies and the UN system in defense of workers’ rights and in the battle for a sustainable food system

The opening will also be addressed by GAWU’s President, Seepaul Narine The union has also invited other speakers to the opening, including from fraternal unions abroad

“

It will also honour current and former union members for their contribution to the GAWU over the years During the business sessions , delegates and observers will receive the General Council report which will be presented by the Union ’ s General

Secretary , Aslim Singh ,” GAWU said

At the congress, a new General Council will be elected, which will guide the work of the union until the next congress . Additionally , several resolutions are expected to be discussed and approved by the forum

“The congress’ theme, it should be highlighted , provides a broad and flexible framework that will serve to guide deliberations over the two days Congress will also assess the realities being faced in the various industries where our members belong , as well as the challenges be-

Cde Sue Longley, IUF General Secretary

ing confronted nationally and the tasks at hand while charting a general course for the future ,” GAWU said

During the business sessions , delegates and observers will discuss the report of the General Council The report will cover relevant developments and happenings in the international, regional, and local spheres , and the union ’ s stewardship since the 21st congress of the union During the discussions, delegates will have the opportunity to identify areas and focal points for the union to tackle until the next congress

Caribbean rum producers meet in Guyana

THIS week, members of the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA) will converge in Guyana for their Annual General Meeting

Rum producers from all CARICOM countries, as well as the Dominican Republic, will converge under the chairmanship of Komal Samaroo, who is the Chairman

of the Demerara Distillers Limited ( DDL ) to engage in discussions pertaining to a wide range of issues that hold significant importance to producers.

“This is our first physical meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic ,” Samaroo said , adding : “ We ’ re pleased to host it in Guyana , during the commemorative year of

–– stakeholders to discuss concerns regarding region’s external trade arrangements, ongoing review of CARICOM’s trade instruments

CARICOM’s 50th anniversary, and to celebrate 50 years of WIRSPA.”

As the export of rum , particularly in the premium sector, continues to experience rapid growth, Caribbean brands are eager to expand into new markets

A key feature of the upcoming meeting will be an exchange with CARICOM’s

Trade, Ambassador Wayne Mc Cook, regarding the facilitation of rum exports to non-traditional markets

Additionally , producers will engage in dialogue with the ASG to address concerns related to the region’s external trade arrangements and the ongoing review of the Community’s trade instruments

According to Chairman Samaroo, producers will evaluate progress made in supporting government initiatives aimed at reducing the excessive consumption of alcohol

Samaroo emphasised too that the upcoming meeting will delve into the ongoing challenges faced by the industry, particularly in their supply chain

This will include a specific focus on the sourcing of raw materials such as molasses and glass bottles

He said producers are proactively addressing the impact of climate change by exploring methods to reduce their carbon footprint ; an emerging area of concern for consumers

Assistant Secretary General (ASG) for Single Market and

In 2019 , producers pledged to take more cohesive and coordinated action, and as a result , WIRSPA member brands now feature enhanced labelling as a standard practice , advising against drinking while underage , drinking during pregnancy, or drinking and driving , and also provides information on serving sizes and calorie content

After their meeting , the rum producers will visit the DDL Diamond Distillery , renowned for its iconic collection of working stills , which is arguably the most diverse in the world This will culminate with a rum tasting and reception, where the products of the various producers will be sampled.

Petroleum Activities Bill introduces major improvements and security

IN order to ensure that Guyana’s oil and sector is managed effectively in accordance with modern practices and in the best interest of Guyanese, the government has introduced the draft Petroleum Activities Bill, which is available for public consultations.

The Ministry of Natural Resources announced the release of the Bill in a press release on Monday evening

According to the ministry: “The Petroleum Activities Bill replaces the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act 1986 and is part of efforts by the government to modernise the legal and regulatory framework related to the petroleum sector.”

The Petroleum Activities Bill introduces major improvements and security, encompassing safety, emergency response, cross-border unitisation , supervision and monitoring requirements

It also empowers the minister to issue regulations governing important administrative and operational aspects of exploration and production activities

The draft Bill also expands the framework of regulation to encompass storage and pipeline transportation components of the oil and gas sector, and authorises the government to regulate activities connected with geological storage of carbon dioxide

Further, it will enable the government to develop petroleum resources while aiming to minimise their carbon footprint because of the existing opportunities for potential CO2 storage sites

The Bill is anticipated to be strengthened

by a set of regulations that will appear in the following months, and give the government the tools it needs to regulate the petroleum activities inside the Guyanese economy responsibly and effectively

The press release said that the government will also ensure that the terms of the draft petroleum agreements released in association with the first offshore licensing round are aligned with the provisions of the Petroleum Activities Bill

“The government has been continuously working to improve the overall management and regulation of the petroleum industry through various policy and legislative programmes

“These programmes included the enactment of the Local Content Act, the establishment of the Local Content Secretariat and a new Natural Resource Fund (NRF) law aimed at providing greater oversight and management of revenue flows,” the release stated.

Additionally , for the licenses that were awarded since 1999, there have been new environmental permitting requirements, taxes, and cost recovery audits that encompass the years from 1999 to 2022

It was also stated that: “The draft Bill, which would be available for public feedback for a period of two weeks commencing from Tuesday, June 20 to Monday, July 3, 2023, can be accessed on the following websites: www.nre. gov gy and www petroluem gov gy

All comments should be sent via email to the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Permanent Secretary at jmckenzie@nre gov gy during the feedback period.”

Chairman of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Komal Samaroo, who holds chairmanship of the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA)

Guyana on track to become one of South America's wealthiest nations

By Trina Williams

DUE to its newly founded oil wealth , Guyana is receiving a lot of attention , both regionally and internationally, but the question that is on everyone’s mind is whether or not this is the beginning of the end for the country or the initiation of a brighter future for the people.

“After the discovery of massive offshore oil fields, the small South American nation is now positioned to become one of the world’s wealthiest,” were the sentiments expressed by an anchor, Andrea Sanke on the wellknown programme, Newsmakers

Noting that Guyana has now become the fourth largest oil producer in the world, the anchor made note of the fact that although the country has less than a million people, many are living below the poverty line

“Less than a million people live in Guyana, many of them below the poverty line, but that could all change very soon,” she said

Highlighting President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s commitment to using a low-carbon development strategy to prevent the Dutch Disease from touching Guyana’s shore, Sanke remarked that with the massive amounts of oil and gas revenue , the government has invested it into constructing massive infrastructural projects that will benefit the people These include scores of schools, 12 hospitals, a $1.9B gas-to-energy-project and two main highways

Underscoring the inevitable cost-of-living rise, which many Guyanese are unable

to cope with, she highlighted the fact that a number of Guyanese are becoming gainfully employed by the massive oil giant, ExxonMobil

However, despite it being a positive, Sanke said that some Guyanese are wishing for an increase in the employment rate for locals

One Guyanese oil worker, Ron Proft, said in a brief snippet: “[I] got this opportunity to learn something new and gain some more money and look at me one year after, I’m enjoying it,” adding that he even attained a promotion

Outside of an oil worker’s point of view, a woodcutter, Michael (only name given), said he hopes that the government will do what it takes to secure Guyana’s future

Speaking on those who believe that Guyana lacks the legal and physical framework to utilise the oil wealth properly, Sanke said, this could be debunked with good management

She stated: “Within the next few years, Guyana could become the richest nation in South America.”

FRUITFUL FUTURE

Moreover, Sanke brought a panel of persons to analyze the state of Guyana Arthur Deakin, Director of the Energy Practice at AMI, acknowledged the works being done by the government within their brief tenure in office and said that because of this, one can see that Guyana has a fruitful future,

According to him: “What the government has done in the past five or so years has been

very fruitful in terms of bringing in investments from Exxon and its consortium,” adding that, “It’s one of the fastest development rates we’ve ever seen.”

He also said that the distribution of the wealth to the people, is not something that happens overnight, Deakin affirmed that it takes structural planning and time.

He further related that Guyana’s Local Content Legislation is quite stringent, and it prevents foreign companies from taking advantage of the local industries

It also ensures that companies operating in the country hire a certain percentage of local workers and use a certain percentage of local goods and services

Guyanese welcome trains to ease traffic problems

By Cindy Parkinson

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali's recent announcement at the Enmore Martyrs event about the possibility of using trains to alleviate traffic problems has thrilled residents of the East Coast of Demerara,

East Bank Demerara, Berbice (Region Six), and Linden (Region 10).

The Head of State, making the announcement at the recent event commemorating the Enmore Martyrs at Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD), said there will be “drastic” transformation

with the construction of the new four-lane highway.

Dr. Ali also pointed out that Enmore and other East Coast communities will become industrial and commercial hubs.

These efforts are already underway but the President said the PPP/C is already

thinking about long-term development of the country. In light of the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara traffic difficulties, President Ali said there have been requests for the government to investigate the viability of a railway. He also gave hints that his administration might

be open to investigating the use of trains.

“In the next term of office for the People’s Progressive Party, we will look at the viability of having a train along the East Coast and East Bank corridors, where the bulk of the population already lives,” Dr. Ali said.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Chowbay (only name given), a resident from the East Coast of Demerara, said, “I believe that this is one of the best decisions by the President and his government to bring back the trains in Guyana. I also understand that we all have to survive, and these bus operators are trying to earn a living as well, but every day we are seeing fatal accidents that involve public transportation most of the time. I am because of work, and the congestion with the traffic to get from the East Coast to the East Bank or vice versa is stressful. While we welcome the new highways and a developing economy, we also have to remember that private owners are also investing in more than one vehicle per home. But I also believe that people will choose to park their

vehicles and take the train to their destinations.”

He continued: “Whether it’s the schoolchildren or the adults, people’s minds will feel more at ease knowing that they are in a safer, more comfortable, and reliable mode of transportation. We have also considered that with fewer vehicles on the roadways, it will reduce the fumes, the traffic congestion, and most naturally, the pollution. And let us not forget that it will help both the locals and the tourism industry to have a different view and appreciation for the scenery in Guyana.”

Chowbay also believes that this initiative should be considered for the Linden to Lethem route, since it will be safer, cheaper, and less time-consuming for all.

He also noted that it will be an advantage for people to transport their goods and for all Guyanese to have the opportunity to visit and do business at Lethem.

Guyanese Artist Romeo Mystic explained he was “very happy” when he saw the news of what the President had announced.

According to him, “I am

Continued on page 18

Region Six resident Romeo Mystic Region Four resident Stephan Harrinauth

$75M ‘learning lab’ opens for persons living with disabilities

— facility’s compound at Mahaica will also house living quarters for children

By Cassandra Khan

AIMED at providing access to free training programmes for persons living with disabilities (PWDs), the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS) on Tuesday officially opened a $73 million training and empowerment centre called the “Learning Lab,” at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara.

The “top-notch” institution was well thought out, and this is evidenced by its design, set-up and placement, according to Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud during her remarks at the opening ceremony.

The training lab will not only consist of facilities to train PWDs to move from a state of dependency to financial independence, but it will also aid in job creation and essentially improve the quality of life of Guyana’s population.

As it is now, the government is working on a digital database to ensure that PWDs across Guyana are identified and their needs are known, so authorities could be responsive and preemptive rather than reactive.

“The creation of a digital database is something that we've been working on very

diligently and last year, His Excellency, the President (President Dr. Irfaan Ali) announced a one-off cash grant for children who are living with disabilities,” Dr. Persaud said.

She added: “From that exercise of distribution, we were able to, with the help of a number of agencies, compile a database of those children, which totals over 5,000. From that database, we will be able to not only do research, but also be in a position to provide direct support to those children in a number of ways, be it through health care, education and understanding the needs of their caregivers and family members.”

Dr. Persaud also cited President Ali’s commitment in 2022, to provide transportation for children attending special needs schools. Regarding the learning lab, a transportation system is being developed to ensure persons are able to travel freely.

Also in the construction phase at the Learning Lab’s compound is a residential facility for children living with disabilities.

Minister Persaud highlighted that there will be another residential facility for adults who would like to have shelter, whether they need assisted living or complete care.

“It will keep on growing and expanding

because that is what we have as a vision, direct support for persons living with disabilities,” she said.

The minister expressed her appreciation to the Spotlight Initiative, the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) for their generous $5 million contribution towards furniture for the facility.

Abike Samuels, the Director of Social Services (ag), said that the MoHSSS remains committed to providing and improving services for PWDs.

“Oftentimes, this vulnerable group is neglected by society, but we are doing all that is necessary to ensure they live a meaningful life, void of discrimination, and to ensure they have equal access to opportunities,” she related.

Samuels highlighted that it is the ministry’s aim to empower PWDs to participate in the developmental process of the country, fully and equally, so that the sustainable development goals (SDGs) can be achieved.

UN Resident Coordinator, Yeşim Oruç, in her address at the opening ceremony, said that the learning lab, while benefitting PWDs with critical skills-building, will help in Guyana’s journey towards achieving the SDGs.

The $73M ‘Learning Lab’ (Delano Williams photos)

A few of the inside rooms of the ‘Learning Lab’

The residential facility expected to house children living with disabilities

Appeal Court to rule soon on killer mom’s conviction, sentence

THE Court of Appeal is expected to soon deliver its ruling in the case brought by Hosfosuwa Amena Rutherford, who is currently serving a total of 98 years for killing her two children.

In 2018, Justice Navindra Singh sentenced Rutherford after a jury found her guilty on two counts of manslaughter for the March 27, 2014 killing of her two small children at Branch Road, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

For killing four-yearold Hodascia Codogan,

Rutherford was sentenced to 45 years, while she was ordered to serve 53 years behind bars for killing of one-year-old Jabari Codogan. The two sentences will run consecutively.

Dissatisfied with the conviction and sentence, Rutherford moved to the Appeal Court, arguing that the trial was unfair, the judge erred in law and

that the sentence was unduly severe.

On Monday, during a Zoom hearing, Chancellor (ag) of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards, and Justices of Ap-

peal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud, reserved their judgements in the case.

A date for ruling is yet to be set.

The children died on

March 27, 2014, moments after Rutherford administered carbon tablets—a pesticide popularly known for killing rats—to them. Her claim was that she thought that she had given them cold medication.

Rutherford was herself hospitalised for some time after ingesting the tablets. According to her caution statement, Rutherford told police about having problems and being frustrated while awaiting word on her application for a job as a traffic warden with the Guyana Police Force.

Guyanese welcome trains...

From page 16

living in Region Six, but I travel to Georgetown very often because of my work.

I know this will help Berbicians and all those who have to deal with the traffic situation every day. I see workers and schoolchildren on the roadside every morning just trying to get to their destinations, and even though it is against the law to overload the buses, the people don’t have a choice sometimes.”

Further, Mystic said “I believe that we need to move away from the hassle of the public transportation system that we have and being stuck in traffic for all hours sometimes. We have to also look at safety and what is better for the country. Listen, we cannot please everyone; not all Guyanese will agree with this move, but the President obviously sees that this will take away a lot of the traffic issues and keep the people safer, and I support it. It’s about time we do consider changing the way we travel publicly.”

Roxanne (only name given), a resident of Linden (Region 10), related that she is a mother of three children, one of whom attends school in Georgetown.

The mother of three said,

“Let me tell you, all this every day is a problem with my child getting to school. Every morning is a complaint, with school and bus problems. The traffic is a headache to deal with. I see we are getting nice roads, and we appreciate that, but there are more vehicles and more accidents too, so when President Ali said he was thinking of bringing back the trains, I said thank God. We need it for traffic and safety, so yes, I welcome it.”

Finally, Stephan Harrinauth said, “I felt happy when I heard the news, my family in New York uses [sic] the trains, and they don’t complain about traffic. They know that they have to get up early to reach the station at a certain time. Even if some of them take a bus to the terminal, it’s a big bus, and they have rules that they have to follow there. So, we will definitely have less traffic and less [sic] problems on the road with buses and private vehicles. This is the best move to help with the traffic situation in Guyana, especially in Georgetown and the populated areas like [sic] the East Coast and East Bank.”

Hosfosuwa Amena Rutherford

Man denies killing customer in 2013

MUAMMAR Jabbar called ‘Omar’ on Tuesday pleaded not guilty to the murder of Tolasicy Marshall called ‘Tala’, who was fatally stabbed during an altercation nine years ago.

Jabbar, also called Christopher Haynes, 35, of Number 41 Village, Berbice was indicted before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court where a 12-member jury was selected to hear the case.

He pleaded not guilty to the indictment which read that on August 20, 2013, at James Street, Albouystown, he murdered Marshall.

His trial will commence on Monday, June 26, 2023. Attorney-at-law George Thomas is on record for the accused.

It is alleged that Marshall,

of Hogg Street, Albouystown, had paid Jabbar a large sum of cash for him to make a gold chain. However, Jabbar did not fulfil the agreement.

The Guyana Chronicle was told back then that Marshall had gone to Jabbar, formerly of James Street, Albouystown, and collected a gold chain, but it weighed less than what he had paid for.

It is alleged that the man confronted Jabbar about the money owed, but this caused a dispute between them.

On August 20, 2013, Jabbar, who was allegedly armed with a knife, confronted Marshall and stabbed him twice to his chest. Jabbar then made good his escape, while Marshall was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he died

MAGISTARTE Rhondel Weever on Tuesday sentenced a 27-year-old welder to serve four years behind bars, together with a fine of $2 million after he confessed to trafficking cannabis.

Akeem Archer, a father of four of Zeelugt Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, was sentenced by Magistrate Rhondel Weever at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

In March, during his first court appearance, Archer had denied having 2.33 kilogrammes of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on March 16, at Lombard Street, Charlestown, Georgetown.

However, after being on remand for over three months, Archer opted to change his plea to guilty. The charge was reread to him and Archer confessed.

“I do love my kids… and I need to be there for them. I am asking if you can be lenient with me,” Archer told the court.

The unrepresented man told the court that he is the sole breadwinner for his family and his wife is currently pregnant. Archer also told the court that in 2018 he was sentenced to

serve two years in prison for firearm possession.

According to a release from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), Archer was nabbed by ranks during an operation in the vicinity of Lombard Street.

He was seen acting in a suspicious manner while carrying a backpack. A subsequent search of the bag led to the discovery of a parcel containing what looked like cannabis.

Archer was arrested and escorted to CANU Headquarters, along with the suspected narcotic, which tested positive for cannabis and weighed approximately five pounds (2.33 kg), with a street value of approximately $400,000.

while receiving treatment.

According to reports, Jabbar was arrested by police in March 2019, under the name of Christopher Haynes, for the armed robbery committed on a 60-year-old cattle and rice farmer and his wife at the couple’s home in Corentyne, Berbice.

He was reportedly nabbed in an abandoned house at Number 72 Village, Corentyne. He later appeared before the Albion Magistrate’s Court, Berbice and was re-

manded.

It was while on remand that the true identity of the person known as Christopher Haynes began to unravel and the prison authorities discovered that he was Muammar Jabbar, who was wanted for murder.

Ranks of the Major Crimes Unit were alerted about the discovery and Jabbar was then questioned. He then reportedly confessed to the murder.

Man gets four years, $2M fine for ‘ganja’ in backpack

Muammar Jabbar called ‘Omar’

JAILED: Akeem Archer

Tolasicy Marshall called ‘Tala’

England denied by Australia in Edgbaston...

From page 32

day. At 107-3 overnight, they did not shift from a neutral gear. Khawaja, who made a century in the first innings, added only 31 runs from 116 balls and looked immovable.

Stokes somehow conjured the slower ball from his fragile body and Root held on to Carey to make England favourites, but fearsome competitors Cummins and Lyon refused to yield.

Root had already failed to cling on to a low caughtand-bowled chance when Cummins had six and the captain would later make him pay by crashing 14 from a single over.

In the next over, Stokes flung himself at a catch that would have matched his grab in the 2019 World Cup, but this time could not hold on.

The new ball was belatedly taken, but Australia's confidence grew. For every time the outside edge was beaten, a single was pinched. Cummins slapped Robinson past a flying Ollie Pope at cover, Lyon twice belted Stuart Broad down the ground for fours.

The outside edge was beaten, England kept the field back, James Anderson was ignored. Australia were within one hit of victory for more than two overs.

With three required, Cummins fended off a short ball and the flailing Brook could not prevent the boundary. Australia ended on 282 - their target back in 2005 - and the brilliant Cummins threw his bat in the air to begin wild celebrations.

England left to fight back again

England had lost two of their past 12 Tests and one of those, against New Zealand in Wellington in February, was by just one run after they had made the Black Caps follow on.

This, though, will test the resolve of their new attitude under captain Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum like never before. Not because their swashbuckling style has failed its first examination by Australia, but because they were so close to winning and it is their own errors that have cost them.

They missed eight chances of varying difficulty in the field, four of which were by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. Most crucially, Bairstow failed to move for an edge when Khawaja had only five on the fourth evening. Questions will linger over Stokes' decision to declare on the first evening and the fitness of Moeen Ali, who was badly hampered by a cut on his spinning finger throughout the match.

It was also telling that Stokes, who is managing a left-knee injury, did not bowl himself until the 70th over of the second innings and that Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, was not trusted with the second new ball.

No team has come from behind to win an Ashes series since 2005. Stokes' England have shown they can get at Australia, but they must be near-perfect in the remaining four Tests if they are to win the urn for the first time since 2015. (BBC Sport)

Zaka Ashraf takes a step closer to becoming PCB

chairman

FORMER PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf has taken a step closer to regaining the post once again after he, along with Supreme Court lawyer Mustafa Ramday, was nominated by the country's Prime Minister to join the PCB's board of governors.

The development occurred the day after Najam Sethi, who is heading the interim management committee that runs the PCB until June 21, withdrew from the running to become the board chairman.

Traditionally in Pakistan cricket, it is the Prime Minister's appointment to the PCB board of governors who usually becomes the board chairman for a three-year term, and Ashraf is the overwhelming favourite to be elected, with the election process usually a formality.

While announcing his withdrawal on Twitter, Sethi had said: "I don't want to be a bone of contention between Asif Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif. Such instability and uncertainty is not good for PCB. Under the circumstances I am not a candidate for Chairmanship of PCB. Good luck to all stakeholders."

Sethi's tweet was referencing the political horse-trading over the chairman's seat. Shehbaz Sharif is the current Prime Minister of Pakistan, and also the PCB patron. Asif Ali Zardari, a former Pakistan president with the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), is a prominent coalition partner in the current government, and Ashraf is thought to be his party's man for the post.

Ordinarily, the PCB chairman would be a

‑ former PCB chairman appointed to board of governors by Pakistan's Prime Minister

ber-November this year. Three days back, Sethi was talking about Pakistan's participation at

the event being subject to the approval of the Pakistan government. That will be one of the

more pressing issues for Sethi's successor to deal with..(Cricinfo).

pick of Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) party. But over the last couple of weeks, the PPP has insisted that as they are the ones in charge of Pakistan sports, through the ministry for inter-provincial coordination (IPC), it maintained the right to nominate a candidate of their choosing.

Ashraf's return after a period of nine years ends - for now at least - a repeat of the tussles that had marked the tug of war between him and Sethi between 2013 and 2014. The pair were involved in a protracted legal battle for the chairmanship at the time, with the position switching hands several times. That issue was seemingly settled when former prime minister Nawaz Sharif - Shehbaz's elder brother - finally ousted Ashraf and brought in Sethi. But after days of intense mediation between both parties, Sethi was compelled to make way for Ashraf.

Sethi has been running the PCB on an interim basis since Ramiz Raja was removed as chairman, and the board's 2019 constitution was scrapped last December. Sethi's committee was initially given 120 days to bring back the 2014 constitution under which the PCB was run, and also reinstate the regional and department structure in domes-

tic cricket. The committee was also given a mandate to form a board of governors and elect a chairman.

That meant the dismissal of the six-team provincial model for domestic cricket which was formed with the backing of former premier Imran Khan. The domestic structure will now be based on 16 regions, marked by a return of departments. Among them, four regions and four departments are set to be given a board seat at the PCB for a term of three years.

The 2014 constitution also requires the PCB to form a board of governors comprising ten members: four out of the 16 regional representatives, four representatives of services organisations, and two members directly nominated by the PCB patron.

Over the last six months, Sethi's management committee has also overseen the hiring of a predominantly overseas coaching staff for Pakistan, with former head coach Mickey Arthur appointed part-time director of cricket.

One of the thornier issues that occupied Sethi during his short stint was Pakistan's hosting of the Asia Cup and its link to Pakistan's potential participation in the World Cup, scheduled to be held in India in Octo -

Zaka Ashraf is likely to head the PCB once again • ( AFP)

Karan KC's new-ball burst stamps Nepal's dominance over USA

...Shayan Jahangir's maiden ODI century went in vain as Bhim Sharki scored a steady half-century in the chase

NEPAL medium- pacer

Karan KC left a devastated USA top order in his wake with 4 for 11 in a seven-over new-ball burst to set up a six-wicket win at Takashinga Sports Club.

For the second match in a row, a maiden ODI century was made in vain for USA as Shayan Jahangir was left unbeaten on an even 100 off 79 balls with his side bowled out for 207 in 49 overs. Coming off a golden duck against Zimbabwe, Bhim Sharki's unbeaten 77 ensured the total was hauled down with ease as they cantered across the line with seven overs to spare.

(Scores:Nepal 211 for

4 (Sharki 77*, Airee 39*, Bhurtel 39) beat USA 207 (Jahangir 100*, Karan 4-33) by six wickets

Nepal captain Rohit Paudel won the toss and didn't hesitate to send USA in to bat under moist early morning conditions. Karan struck with his fifth ball, trapping Steven Taylor with an in-swinging yorker to win an lbw appeal. With USA captain Monank Patel out of the line-up sitting back in his hotel room battling illness, Sai Mukkamalla was bumped up to No. 3 but lasted just a single ball as a nervy prod at an out-swinger on the fourth stump line produced an edge that carried

low to Aarif Sheikh at first slip to make it 6 for 2.

Stand-in captain Aaron Jones survived a missed run-out as well as a drop in his painstaking two off 22 balls before a delivery from Karan climbed off the

shoulder of his defensive prod and carried to Kushal Bhurtel at gully in the eighth over. Nosthush Kenjige, who batted at No. 9 against West Indies, was sent up to No. 5 as USA's batting reshuffle continued without desirable

of lofted cover drives to and over the off-side boundary. However, the single he took to bring up the three-figure landmark left the tail exposed. Gulshan Jha bowled Saurabh Netravalkar on the very next ball before last man Kyle Phillip was pinned lbw two balls later to end the innings with six balls unused.

Nepal were rarely troubled in the chase. Aasif Sheikh fell for 12 to a questionable lbw decision given in favor of Netravalkar that struck the batter high above his pads to end the fifth over at 25 for 1. Bhurtel and Sharki teamed up for a brisk 49-run stand that ended when the former was teased into a slog sweep that produced a top edge back to left-arm spinner Kenjige for 39.

results when he poked well away from his body to send another edge low to Aarif at slip for one to make it 18 for 4 in the 10th. It was a newball performance that locked up Player-of-the-Match honours.

Coming off a century against West Indies, Gajanand Singh got another start but was unable to convert it on this occasion, edging Dipendra Singh Airee's off-spin to Aarif at slip for 26. Sushant Modani watched all the carnage unfold at the opposite end and did his best to stave off Nepal's bowling unit. The opener made 42 off 71 balls before he finally gave in, playing an ill-advised sweep shot to leftarm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi and saw his middle stump knocked back.

Jahangir arrived at No. 7 and did his best to shoulder the load with the tail. Entering the day with a best of 39 in his ODI career, he reached a maiden half-century off 56 balls before taking just another 23 balls to reach three figures as he carted a series

Captain Paudel stayed mostly in his shell in making 16 before trying to clear mid-off in the ring against left-arm spinner Nisarg Patel but miscued the shot to Jessy Singh diving forward on the circle. Kushal Malla exited after a hasty run-a-ball 13, slogging Taylor's offspin flat to long-off to make it 137 for 4 in the 33rd over.

But Sharki kept his cool and teamed with Airee for an unbeaten 74-run stand that spanned just 10.4 overs. Sharki took 97 balls to get to his half-century, but spurred on by the arrival of Airee, unfurled a series of sweep shots to accelerate alongside Airee, who pumped a series of straight drives to the boundary in his 39 not out off 32 balls. A straight drive by Airee to the mid-on rope for his fifth boundary clinched Nepal's first win of the tournament while USA stand winless after two matches.

Karan KC, Shayan Jahangir, Bhim Sharki, United States of America(U.S.A.) vs Nepal, ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier

Shayan Jahangir's maiden ODI hundred went in vain (ICC/Getty Images)

Karan KC's opening spell derailed USA's innings • ICC via Getty Images

Raza clubs Zimbabwe's fastest ODI century in crushing win over Netherlands

YET another imperious hand from Sean Williams and an all-round masterclass from Sikandar Raza ensured that a potentially tricky chase was handled with relative ease, as Zimbabwe made it two wins from two with a six-wicket victory over Netherlands.

Raza's impact on the game was absolute, having started with a four-wicket haul to help keep the opposition down to what he deemed a "par" total of 315 - such was the nature of the track. That culminated with a truly belligerent display of power-hitting that climaxed incredibly in him reaching the fastest ever ODI century by a Zimbabwe batter, finishing unbeaten on 102 off 54 deliveries.

(Scores: Zimbabwe 319 for 4 (Raza 102*, Williams 91, Shariz 2-62) beat Netherlands 315 for 6 (Vikramjit 88, Edwards 83, Raza 4-55) by six wickets)

But while Raza will rightly take all the headlines, Williams' role cannot be understated. His was a knock that was an exhibition in game management. Having come in to bat in the 14th

over, he took a few overs to get in before cutting loose and looting 48 runs from overs 17-21. And he kept plugging away at a steady rate before Raza joined him in the 25th over.

At that point, Raza immediately made his intentions clear, as Williams took on a more reserved role. While Netherlands would no doubt rue some dropped chances over the course of the innings, once Williamsand then Raza - started going, there was no stopping the Zimbabwe juggernaut.

Raza would end the game having struck six fours and eight

sixes - three of which came in three consecutive deliveries in a brutal assault on Shariz Ahmad in the 39th over - and such was his authority at Harare Sports Club that you wondered if any score Netherlands would have put up would have been enough. If it was any consolation, then 315 was their joint-highest score in ODIs.

Having been put into bat on a belter of a batting track, Netherlands weathered some early movement, and proceeded to motor along in their innings. A 120-run opening stand between Max O'Dowd and Vikramjit

Singh was followed by a 96-run partnership between Vikramjit and captain Scott Edwards, who hit 83.

But despite their best efforts, they were never allowed to get out of hand, as Raza - utilising his vast experience and array of variations - consistently struck with the ball. Having broken the first-wicket union with a quicker one outside off that was chopped on by O'Dowd, Raza struck in his next over too, cleaning Wesley Barresi up with another one that was quicker and full.

And just as Edwards and Vikramjit would have been eyeing a big finish, Raza returned in the 39th over to have the latter miscue a sweep when on 88, and thus broke a threatening stand. That wicket, of the set batter, potentially took the momentum out of Netherlands' innings; they did go on to score 81 off the final ten overs, which was a good effort, yet not good enough in terms of what the surface offered.

And so it would prove, as Raza returned with the bat to land the finishing blow on an otherwise respectable Netherlands performance. (Cricinfo)

Dhaniram (193), Seeram (121) plunder Friendship Masters bowling

…Toronto Blizzards remain unbeaten in OMSCC Over-50 tournament

FORMER Guyana players, Sunil Dhaniram and Shiv Seeram, went on the rampage last Saturday at the St Bede ground in Toronto, Canada as they plundered a hapless Friendship Masters attack into submission when the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) Over-50 tournament continued in brilliant sunshine.

The defending champions, who were also the winners of the Over-50 tournament in the Canada Cup, played last September, blasted a record 363 for two in their allotted 20 overs with in an incredible display of power-hitting with the left-handed Dhaniram smashing 24 sixes and six fours in his 193 while right-hander Seeram pulverized the attack to the tune of 18 sixes and a solitary four.

By the end of the 10th over, the pair had already added 163, also a record for the tournament with Dhaniram on 102 and Seeram 53. There was no respite after the interval with a further 200 runs coming in the session.

An obviously stunned Friendship Masters huffed and puffed their way to 153 all out in 20 overs, losing by the wide margin of 210 runs. Sohan Singh

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday June 21, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Jim Laker-10/53 (Manchester, 1956)

(2) Arthur Mailey-9/121 (Melbourne, 1920)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which ENG wicketkeeper has effected most Test dismissals against AUST to date?

(2) Which AUST wicketkeeper has effected most Test dismissals against ENG to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

picked up four for 12. Seeram’s knock followed up his 76 from the previous weekend when Blizzards also made light work of Ramblers Rampage, defeating their opponents by eight wickets. Batting first, Ramblers Rampage reached 162 for eight in their 20 overs while Blizzards rushed to the required target in 12.2 overs.

Second placed Pegasus Storm stormed to an eight-wicket win over Remax All Stars

at Dean Park on Saturday with former Guyana Under-19 player Troy Gobin continuing his rich vein of form with an unbeaten 60 as his team made light work of Remax All Stars 159 for five in their allotted 20 overs.

Gobin, who led the tournament’s aggregate in 2021 and 2022, struck five sixes and one four off 39 deliveries and received solid support from Jai Singh who’s undefeated 42 was laced with a four and four sixes

off a mere 21 balls. Opener Suren Persaud chipped in with 38 (two fours and three sixes. Terry Mathura was Pegasus Storm best bowler with two for 13 from two overs.

Gobin, who struck a century in the second round, was also in the runs the previous weekend, finishing on an unbeaten 82 (six fours and seven sixes) as Pegasus Storm defeated newcomers Tropical Rebelz by eight wickets at St Bede.

Taking first strike, Tropical Rebelz were restricted to 157 for eight with Royston Naicken hitting four fours and four sixes in a top score of 47 while Mohan Sahadeo made 40 (two fours and three sixes). Mathura grabbed two for eight from his three overs while Gobin took two for 21.

Toronto Blizzards, who drew the bye for this upcoming weekend’s matches, lead the points table with the maximum 24 points from four matches while Pegasus Storm are second on 18 from the same four. Ramblers Rampage, Dirty Dozen and Friendship Masters are deadlocked on six points each while Tropical Rebelz are still to record a win. (Frederick Halley).

RACING TIPS

English Racing Tips

Ascot

09:30 hrs Beautiful Diamond

10:05 hrs Yerwanthere

10:40 hrs Prosperous Voyage

11:20 hrs My Prospero

12:00 hrs Ghaly

12:35 hrs Peking Opera

13:10 hrs Maximum Impact

Worcester

08:35 hrs Courtland

09:10 hrs Tom O’Roughley

09:45 hrs Storm Ryder

10:20 hrs Coolnaugh Haze

10:55 hrs Lightfoot Lady

11:30 hrs Deal Em High

Newcastle

12:19 hrs Quoteline Direct

12:50 hrs Rayat

13:20 hrs Theatre Honours

13:50 hrs Bashful

14:20 hrs Blue Force

14:50 hrs East End Girl

15:20 hrs Squeezebox

American Racing Tips

Delware

Race 1 Tiz Herself Race 2 Big Rowdy Dan Race 3 Elfuegomasbrilante

Race 4 You Must Call Race 5 Noble Fish Race 6 Cloud Music Race 7 Sam Stormy Race 8 Cosmic Treasure

Irish Racing Tips

Wexford

12:25 hrs The Last Mardi

12:55 hrs Bowmore

13:25 hrs Pink In The Park

13:58 hrs Notkeepinygoing

14:28 hrs Atimetodream

14:58 hrs Whatsyourstatus

15:28 hrs Barons Revemge

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville

08:30 hrs Rosslyne

09:05 hrs Action Stations

Sikandar Raza bashed Zimbabwe's fastest ODI hundred • (ICC via Getty Images)

Openers Sunil Dhaniram and Shiv Seeram during their record-breaking partnership

Mendis, Samarawickrama provide answers to Sri Lanka's middle-order woes

Sri Lanka's opening game of the World Cup Qualifier was pretty much as textbook an execution of their game plan as head coach Chris Silverwood could have hoped for.

The top order set a platform, the middle order kept things ticking, the set batters then began the acceleration in that brief period between the 30th and 40th over, before the launch was executed consummately at the death. The bowlers, led by Wanindu Hasaranga, then proved just too good for some admittedly spirited UAE batters.

Now, as to whether Sri Lanka can put together such performances consistently remains a pertinent question for another day, but what we did learn from this resounding victory was that this is most definitely a side making rapid progress.

Sure there are still problems to be addressed, a seam-bowling unit that needs to be wrapped in cotton wool and an opening pair that consume dot balls like they're hard-boiled eggs, are two very pertinent ones. But, whisper it quietly, despite all their recent chaos, in Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sri Lanka may finally be coming close to resolving their longstanding middle-order woes - ironic since both batters are arguably better served at the top of the order.

While a majority of their interactions in the middle have been for the Sri Lankan Under-19 side - they've played just six ODIs alongside each, of which three have come in the past month - it seems that they have nevertheless found in each other kindred spirits.

For all of Mendis' brashness and tendency to throw away promising platforms, Samarawickrama seems well equipped at ushering his former Under-19 captain through the

middle overs and into the point in the game in which most damage can be done.

While this strategy has admittedly fallen short in the two games this year that both have partnered up - Mendis falling for 78 against both Afghanistan and UAE - both games have nevertheless seen the pair combine to guide Sri Lanka through the middle overs and catalyse a late-overs onslaught.

In the second ODI against Afghanistan earlier this month, they put on an 88-run stand at a little over a run-a-ball having joined up in the 23rd over - a partnership in which the highlight was a purposeful upping of the scoring rate from overs 30-35. A carbon copy of this blueprint was put into effect against the UAE, with the pair coming together in the 27th over and putting together a 105-run partnership off just 79 deliveries. It's no coincidence that in both matches Sri Lanka have managed to surpass the 300-mark, a feat they've otherwise rarely accomplished over the past five years. But where Sri Lanka are truly fortunate, is that these two players seem to be linking up at just the right times in their respective careers.

It's a fascinating microcosm of the chaotic progression structure of Sri Lanka's cricketing setup, that despite both Mendis and Samarawickrama having come through the same Under-19 batch, they've had such diverging paths to the national side.

Mendis, of course, was the older and more highly regarded of the two, having been captain of the Under-19 side and known for his brazen stroke play. He made his Test debut in 2015 aged just 20, and by the end of his sophomore year had notched a match winning 176 against Australia, as well as a handful of ODI fifties.

As for Samarawickrama, his route to the national side was more winding. He scored a fluent 38 on Test debut against Pakistan in 2017, but following a chastening tour of India later that year was left out of the Test side for six years. He wouldn't return until earlier this year against Ireland, when he registered a maiden Test ton. Meanwhile in ODIs and T20Is his inclusion was sporadic, never truly grabbing his chance but also never really being given a run of games to find his footing - another victim of a particularly dire period in Sri Lankan cricket,

in which selection was at its most volatile.

During this period, only a handful of players remained mainstays, one of whom was Mendis. While this spell coincided with a prolonged period of inconsistency, the selectors still kept their faith in a man seen as one of the stars of the future. That faith is now being handsomely repaid but it wasn't without its trials. Coming through in an age in which social media was gaining increasing prevalence, Mendis' downturn in form made him a prime target for the ire of disgruntled fans, which in turn impacted his performances further. He struggled off the field too, suspended for his role in breaking Covid protocols alongside Niroshan Dickwella and Danushka Gunathilaka.

But upon his return from suspension, a more focused version of Mendis emerged. Last year saw him rack up 388 runs in ODIs at an average of 48.50, his best non-Covid impact in the calendar year since 2016, which was when he made his debut. In T20Is too he found another gear, consistently setting the tone at the top of the order, and playing an integral role in Sri Lanka's Asia Cup triumph.

Samarawickrama, in the meantime, was grinding the domestic circuit, patiently waiting for his opportunity - which given past evidence, something there was no guarantee would come. But it was his performances in last year's Lanka Premier League, which arguably turned the tide in his favour. Scoring 294 runs at an average of 58.8 and a strike rate of 131.25 for champions Jaffna Kings, Samarawickrama was named Player of the Series, but more importantly his versatility across the batting order proved invaluable. (Cricinfo)

Haaland scores twice as Norway beat Cyprus in qualifier

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway secured a routine home win in their Euro 2024 qualifier against Cyprus. Haaland scored 52 goals in all competitions for City in 2022-23 as they won the Treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup. Norway took an early lead against Cyprus through Ola Solbakken's goal.

Haaland converted a penalty and scored again four minutes later, before Grigoris Kastanos pulled a goal back.

Haaland's second and Norway's third was set up for him by Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. Norway have not qualified for a major tournament since Euro 2000 and made a poor start to this campaign as they bid to reach next summer's Euro 2024 in Germany.

They lost 3-0 in Spain, drew 1-1 in Georgia and were beating Scotland on Saturday before conceding two late goals to lose 2-1 to Steve Clarke's side.(BBC Sport).

Paris 2024 Olympics: French police raid organisers' headquarters

FRENCH police are searching the headquarters of the organisers of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Officials say the raids are part of two preliminary corruption investigations.

The BBC understands the police are looking into allegations of favouritism and misuse of public money in the attribution of construction contracts.

A spokesperson for the Paris 2024 organising com-

mittee told the BBC the body was "co-operating fully with the investigators".

On Tuesday, anti-corruption investigators arrived unannounced at the headquarters of the Olympics organising committee in Saint-Denis, a Paris suburb, as well as at the offices of Solideo, the public body in charge of building projects for the games, the BBC's Hugh Schofield in Paris reports.

The French judicial organisation responsible for tracking down financial crime, the PNF, later confirmed to the BBC that their searches were being carried out across several locations involving the two organisations.

The 2024 Olympics take place from 26 July to 11 August, with the Paralympics running in September.

Tuesday's police raids are the latest episode affecting

France's Olympic movement and sports in general in recent months.

In May, France's National Olympic Committee President Brigitte Henriques resigned in a move that surprised many sports experts.

No reason was given for Ms Henriques' decision, but it came amid reports of intense infighting in the organisation.

Earlier in the year, the bosses of France's football and rugby.

Sri Lanka are fortunate that Sadeera Samarawickrama and Kusal Mendis seem to be linking up at the exact right time of their careers • AFP/Getty Images

Erling Haaland has scored three of Norway's five goals in Euro 2024 qualifying so far

The Paris Olympics take place

GCUSA training course attracts many females

By Sean Devers

AT a time when females are being empowered and Women’s cricket is on the rise, the Georgetown Umpires and Scorers Association (GCUSA) Umpire’s training course was launched on Monday evening at the Umpires Room at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda, which attracted a large number of females.

The course, which teaches the ‘Laws of Cricket’ will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and culminate on August 3rd with a mock exam.

On Monday evening, Stephon Josiah played the role of MC while president of the Guyana Cricket Umpires Council (GCUSA), Essequibian Dawchan Nagasar, and Demerara and Georgetown Cricket Umpires Association president, Ryan Banwarie, spoke to the 22 participants which included nine females.

Umpire Pastor Matthew

Kissoon said the opening Prayer, while Match Referee and former Test pacer, Reon King, told the largest firstday turn-out for the course in recent times, about the attributes and duties of the umpire.

Some of the participants came from West Demerara and East Coast of Demerara and while the presentations by King and Kissoon seemed too long, their utterances were very

informative.

Nagasar said he was pleased to see so many young female students and told the gathering that it was important for them to study the Laws since there were so many areas in cricket they could be involved in if they are successful in their exams.

“There are four exams you need to pass to be a fully qualified Cricket Umpire. Usually it takes three years

to become fully qualified but this period could be reduced to two years.

“There is the preliminary Exams, the Final Written and the Oral and Practical Exams and we need more Umpires, especially females,” posited the GCUC Head.

Chairman of the GCA’s Competitions Committee, captain of the Transport Sports Club and also a coach, Shawn Massiah, told

the gathering, which also included two cricket Journalists, cricket commentators and three GCB scorers, that without Umpires it would be difficult to run off tournaments since the GCA has 16 clubs.

“We (GCA) need Umpires and so I encourage all of you to love what you are doing and stay till the end of this 16-day course. Once you work you will get paid,” said the GCA executive.

King stressed the importance of preparation for Umpires and Match Referees and quoted Abraham Lincoln saying ‘give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend four hours sharpening my axe”

“The Umpires control the game and your appearance and body language are very important to your success since players will quickly identify weak Umpires” King cautioned.

Banwarie spoke on Laws 1,2 and 3, the Players, Umpires and Scorers respectively.

The GCA encouraged more coaches, players and cricket writers to attend the classes since many of them don’t know the laws of cricket.

“The Laws are different from the playing conditions and it is only questions on the Laws that will be asked in the Exams, so invest in getting a copy of the updated version of the pocket size MCC book on the Laws of cricket” advised Banwarie.

“Registration fee is $5000, and by joining our Level One and Two Umpires’ Training classes, you will not only elevate your skills but also contribute to the growth and development of cricket in the city,” Banwarie stated.

To register or for more details, persons can call the following numbers: 592 645-2596, 592- 6155330, 592- 6845250.

The next session is scheduled for this afternoon from 17.00hrs at GCC, Bourda and will focus on Laws 4-8.

England players in 'absolute pieces' after defeat, says captain Ben Stokes

ENGLAND’s players were in "absolute pieces" in the dressing room after their agonising two-wicket defeat by Australia, says captain Ben Stokes.

The tourists pulled off an unlikely victory on a dramatic final day of the first Test at Edgbaston.

England were strong favourites at one stage but Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon combined for a stunning ninth-wicket stand of 55 to take Australia home.

"Losing sucks," Stokes said. "We always want to win."

He added: "We are absolutely devastated that we have lost.

"The lads are up there in absolute pieces, especially Robbo and Broady [bowlers Ollie Robinson and Stuart Broad] who put in an unbelievable shift there.

"But if that's not attracting people to the game we love then I don't know what will.

"There are still four games left. Keep following us and we will keep trying to do what we do."

'I'm not going to change'

It is a style of play which has carried them to 11 wins from their previous 13 Tests.

They were the aggressive team throughout in Birmingham: they made a surprise declaration late on day one and scored at more than four and a half runs per over, but that led to them losing wickets at regular intervals in their second innings.

Stokes, however, said England would not change their approach in the remainder of the five-match series.

"I am not going to change the way I have gone about my cricket because it is the Ashes," Stokes, 32, said.

When England declared on day one, Joe Root was unbeaten on 118. The declaration gave them four overs at Australia late in the day but David Warner and Usman Khawaja survived unscathed.

"I thought that was a time to pounce," Stokes said.

"Who knows, we could have got an extra 40 runs or lost two wickets in two balls. I am not a captain who gets by on 'what ifs'.

"We were in control of most of the game and managed to produce a result. Obviously we wanted to be on top. We are devastated but that's sport. It is great and an emotional rollercoaster."

'Number one' - Victory Cummins' greatest Test win

Australia opener Usman Khawaja, who was named player of the match for his first-innings century and crucial 65 in the second, said he "couldn't really watch" the finale with his team-mates.

"There was too much nervous energy out the front so I watched it in the changing room with delayed vision," Khawaja said."But I could hear everything that was going on. Marnus [Labuschagne] came in and said, 'you cannot move!' So I had

to stay there. Old habits die hard."

Captain Cummins described the win as the best of his Test career. He also said he was happy with his side's tactics which were often more defensive, such as having boundary fielders in the first over of the first day.

"Win or lose we are pretty comfortable with how we go about it," he said.

"We've been really good for the last 20 Test matches, two years. Winning is nice. But we are at our best when we play at our own pace and tempo.

"The wicket probably slowed down that tempo, but we saw the way Uzzy managed his way through an innings and it was pretty special.

"We're a stable team. We know what we need to do to be at our best and we'll keep doing it." (BBC Sport)

The turnout of females at the Umpires training course was good on Monday night

Player of the Match Usman Khawaja batted

England denied by Australia in Edgbaston classic

AUSTRALIA somehow prevailed in one of the all-time great Ashes Tests to beat England by two wickets and take a 1-0 lead in the series.

On an unbearably tense final day of another Edgbaston classic, ninth-wicket pair Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon added an unbroken 55 to defy the raucous crowd and get Australia to their target of 281.

In doing so, they extracted revenge for Australia's famous two-run defeat on this ground 18 years ago, when the tailenders just fell short of reaching a target of 282.

Cummins, with 44 not out, and Lyon's unbeaten 16 took Australia to their narrowest Ashes win in terms of wickets since 1907.

England looked to be surging towards victory when captain Ben Stokes produced a magical slower ball to bowl Usman Khawaja for 65 and Joe Root held a stunning return catch off Alex Carey.

But as a breathless match entered its final hour, Cummins and Lyon swung the bat at England's short-ball plan to inch Australia closer.

Stokes almost dismissed Lyon with a flying

catch for the ages when 37 were still needed, the skipper losing control of the ball as he dived backwards at square leg.

The target ticked down, the evening drew in. With three runs required and less than five overs remaining, Cummins deflected Ollie Robinson towards third man, a diving Harry Brook fumbled and Australia had an incredible victory.

A series that has already lived up to the hype continues with the second Test at Lord's on 28 June

Australia prevail in another Edgbaston epic

This was not just an homage to the epic contest on the same ground 18 years ago, but the perfect opening to the most anticipated Ashes series in a generation.

From the moment Zak Crawley crunched the first ball of the series for four, this Test had everything: England's daring firstday declaration, Root's attempted reverse-ramp off Cummins from the first ball of day four and the fascinating clash of style between the two teams.

But none of that could match the nerve-shredding drama of the final hour, played out in front of a buoyant crowd that had earlier waited until 14:15 BST for rain to pass and play to begin.

England have been involved in some thrilling

Tests since Stokes took charge, but none with the stakes as high as this. In truth, they wasted chances throughout, but have shown enough quality, endeavour and bravery to suggest they have what it takes to get back into the series.

For Australia, the narrow win just about vindicates their cautious approach to combatting England's Bazballers. It was fitting that captain Cummins, the architect of the safety-first plan, played the vital role on the final day.

This was magnificent sporting theatre, whetting the appetite for the rest of the series and for the Test between England and Australia's women, which begins at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Cummins and Lyon get revenge 18 years in the making

In 2005, Australia arrived on the fourth morning needing 107 with only two wickets remaining and almost got them thanks to the efforts of their last three batters - Shane Warne, Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz.

From a position almost as hopeless, Cummins and Lyon launched their own rescue mission and this time got Australia over the line.

The tourists had been almost inert for most of the

Continued on page 26

Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins embrace after the stunning victory // Getty