Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21-09-2023

Guyana will spare no effort to defend its territory

By Naomi Parris

ALTHOUGH the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has yet to deliver a decree on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy, the Bolivarian Republic has continued its claim over the country’s territory, and Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has affirmed that no effort will be spared to safeguard its sovereignty.

Dr. Ali, while addressing world leaders at the 78th sitting of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, said that Venezuela must honour its obligation under the charter of the UN to respect the rule of law.

“It is sad that 57 years after Guyana’s Independence we remain threatened,” President Ali said.

Venezuela’s most recent claims were made on Tuesday via a Communique, which stated that Guyana does not have the jurisdiction to bid on oil blocks located in its own waters.

President Ali has since

responded to the country’s recent claims.

He, however, reiterated to leaders at the UN that Guyana will spare no effort in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“Guyana considers this a threat to regional and international peace and security, as well as to Guyana’s investment partners…We demand

that Venezuela honours its obligation under the Charter to pursue only peaceful means to settle any disputes it may have with Guyana, including adjudication before the International Court of Justice,” President Ali said.

The Guyanese Head of State believes that a peaceful resolution within the courts will be equitable, and in line

- President Ali tells UN, as the country’s western neighbour reiterates territorial claim

with international law.

In April of this year, the World Court ruled that the case Guyana brought before it seeking to affirm the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award settling the boundaries between it and Venezuela was admissible.

This meant that the court could move forward with hearing the substantive case on its merits, of whether the 1899 arbitral award settling the boundaries of the two countries is valid and binding.

Just last week, President Ali, during an address to the Permanent Council of the Organisation of American States’ Protocolary Meeting in Washington, D.C., said that accepting established borders has always been a feature of the country, as it supports a peaceful resolution of issues.

The country’s most recent claims have since seen several global leaders, including OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro, supporting Guyana.

Guyana moved to the ICJ

with its case in March 2018, challenging the non-participating Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela over its disagreement on the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Award.

Venezuela maintained that the ICJ was without jurisdiction to hear the case and refused to participate in the court proceedings.

The Spanish-speaking country had claimed that it is the “sole indisputable inheritor” of the Essequibo region and the Monetary Gold Principle.

Although Venezuela had claimed that the ICJ did not have jurisdiction to hear the substantive case, the country made a U-turn following the court’s December 2020 ruling on that aspect of the case. Venezuela, on that occasion, contended that Guyana had no standing on the matter.

Venezuela had argued that the United Kingdom was the proper party since the territory was “given” to Guyana by the British. However, the ICJ found that Venezuela’s objection on the basis of the

Monetary Gold principle is an objection to the exercise of the court’s jurisdiction and thus does not constitute an objection to jurisdiction.

Based on a thorough analysis of the facts and relevant legal precedents, the ‘World Court’ also found Venezuela’s preliminary objection was admissible on this ground.

The court found that in view of the above, the practice of the parties to the Geneva Agreement further demonstrates the two countries’ agreement that the dispute could be settled without the involvement of the United Kingdom.

The court unanimously rejected Venezuela’s objection.

Guyana is seeking a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains valid and that the Essequibo region belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela.

US, OAS rally behind Guyana’s sovereignty

- amid Venezuela’s objections to oil auction, intimidatory tactics

By Clestine Juan

IN response to recent objections raised by Venezuela regarding Guyana’s local oil auction, top international officials have voiced their support for Guyana’s sovereign right to develop

its natural resources, and have rejected Venezuela’s intimidatory tactics.

Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs of the United States, Brian Nichols added his voice to the issue on Wednesday, calling for Guyana’s sovereignty to be

respected, while dubbing any efforts to infringe on those rights as “unacceptable.

He stated, “The U.S. supports Guyana’s sovereign right to develop its own natural resources. Efforts to infringe upon Guyana’s sovereignty are unacceptable. We call on Venezuela to respect international law, including the 1899 arbitral award and the ongoing ICJ process between Guyana and Venezuela.”

Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, expressed his disapproval of attempts to undermine the principle of “good-neighbourliness”, and affirmed Guyana’s right to welcome investors.

He stated, “We [OAS] vehemently decry intimidatory tactics that seek to undermine the principle of “good-neighbourliness”. We recognise the right of Guyana to welcome investors. Guyana must preserve its territorial integrity

& security by addressing its case with Venezuela at the ICJ (International Court of Justice).”

Tensions escalated when Venezuela issued a statement on Tuesday, challenging Guyana’s sovereignty by asserting that certain maritime areas did not fall under its sovereign rights. The statement warned that any actions within these areas, licensed by Guyana, would violate international law, unless agreed upon with Venezuela. It concluded with a threat to “apply all the necessary measures” to prevent operations licensed by Guyana in these

waters, which Venezuela claims as its own.

In a statement, President Dr. Irfaan Ali responded firmly, stating that, “Guyana considers this a threat not only to Guyana but to regional and international peace and security, as well as to all of Guyana’s current and potential investment partners.” He added, “Guyana has no doubt that under international law, the waters in question form part of its Exclusive Economic Zone, where Guyana alone enjoys sovereign rights over the resources in the sea and beneath the seabed.”

Dr. Ali pointed out that

if Venezuela disputes this, it is obliged by the United Nations Charter and the Charter of the OAS to employ only peaceful means to seek a resolution. Both charters prohibit the threat or use of force against another state.

He called on Venezuela to honour its obligation to pursue only peaceful means to settle any dispute with Guyana, including adjudication before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where Guyana has sought confirmation of the land boundary between the two states.

“Allowing the Court to

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (United Nations photo)

OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro

United States of America Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian Nichols

‘Current global climate change targets not realistic’

- President Ali tells 78th UN assembly, stresses need for financial reform

By Naomi Parris

DESPITE global efforts to address climate change, many countries are far

address the attendant effects,” Dr. Ali said.

Previously, several commitments, including a pledge of US$100 billion per year, were

when the amount of carbon added to the atmosphere is no more than the amount removed.

The country is cur-

serves to contribute to the advancement and development of our country and region.”

INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REFORM

President Ali noted that leaders have to now direct their energies to a more balanced approach towards ‘net zero’ in a realistic environment.

And international financial reform will be crucial in meeting these global targets.

“As custodians of a rainforest the size of England and Scotland combined, we are of the view that the lack of financing for standing forests suggests they are worth more dead than alive.”

The existing financial architecture he said is incapable of addressing current global challenges.

behind in achieving international goals, making them unrealistic.

This is according to Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who on Wednesday delivered a candid address at the General Debate of the 78th United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York.

He maintained that while the issue of climate change has been acknowledged, countries like Guyana continue to bear the brunt of the phenomena despite not contributing to the crisis.

He therefore contended that these states should not be the only ones to carry the burden.

“Small Island Developing and low-lying coastal States like Guyana are among the hardest hit and require adequate financing to

made by developed countries to support climate change efforts. These commitments have not yet been fulfilled.

As the climate threats now grow increasingly, the Guyanese Head of State questioned, “How much longer must developing countries wait for these commitments to be fully delivered?

Guyana currently has the second-highest forest cover per capita in the world and is recognised globally to have net zero emissions. The country for decades has been championing forestry preservation.

“Net zero” is a term that means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere and the carbon removed from it. This balance — or net zero — will happen

rently utilizing its resources to mitigate the effects of climate change.

“Technology, capacity and financing are key for developing countries to build the relevant energy mix and the share of renewable energy needed. Guyana is using revenue from oil and gas resources to finance its transition to renewable energy, notwithstanding our already globally recognised net-zero status,” the President said.

President Ali believes Guyana presents a balanced strategy in harnessing its resources while providing equitable services to its people.

“My country, Guyana, is blessed with the best of both worlds, that is, the ability to lead on climate change and the use of our expansive oil and gas re-

“That is why we support the expansion of financial mechanisms that appropriately value the environmental services provided by forests including through the carbon market,” he added.

However, with a balanced approach and adequate financing, the Guyanese Leader believes that the goals can be met in a realistic environment.

He further outlined serious measures, which include a cut in fossil fuel production; incentivising the introduction of renewables

at scale; exploring advances in technology in using carbon capture and storage; cutting deforestation and land degradation and; introducing measures to curb demand for energy to address the climate phenomena.

Dr. Ali also cited a number of international publications and reports that suggested that in excess of billions of dollars will be needed for global targets to meet.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his address at the General Debate of the 78th United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York (Office of the President photos)

Global leaders are currently meeting in New York to host discussions on a wide range of challenges and crisis affecting the world

Richard Madeley criticised for ‘vile’ treatment of Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali on GMB

RICHARD Madeley is being criticised for his “vile” and “patronising” treatment of Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday’s (September 20) episode of Good Morning Britain.

Ali addressed world leaders at the UN General Assembly in New York about his belief that the UK needs to realise it “still benefits” from its historical role in slavery.

Hours before his address, the Guyana leader appeared on GMB via video link where Madeley appeared to grow angry with his guest over the suggestion that the royal family should offer to pay reparations to today’s generations.

When Madeley questioned why “someone who maybe had an ancestor seven or eight generations ago should... carry the burden” of past actions, Ali replied: “Oh, it’s not a burden at all. You are one of the beneficiaries of that slave trade, so this is not a burden.”

He continued: “You should be concerned and you should pay because you today still benefit from the greatest indignity to the human being, and that is the slave trade. And not only did you benefit during the slave trade, and your country develop, but look at what it cost the developing world.

“During slavery, resources were used to build your country, build up your capacity. You were able to then become competitive, able to invest in mecha -

nisation and developing countries like ours were left behind. So you should be very concerned, because

you are prime beneficiaries of exploits of slavery.”

Madeley, growing increasingly frustrated, asked: “One of the points that you'll be making today is about our royal family, and you feel it's not just about the finances involved for you in terms of reparations about slavery, it's about gestures.”

Here, he slammed his hand on the desk in front of him, adding: “And you think the British royal family should make gestures, don’t you? What do you mean? Hand over a palace?”

Ali, keeping his cool, replied: “Well no, we don’t want the British to hand over a palace that we built.”

While Madeley could be heard laughing at Ali’s answer in the background, the president continued: “If you go to many of the palaces in Britain, you’ll see the lovely hard work from Guyana. You will see the sweat, tears and blood of the slaves who were exploited, and the revenue that was earnt from the exploitation. So we’re not asking for a palace; we’re asking for justice.”

Madeley has since been criticised not only for his questions, but the “vile”

and “condescending” manner in which he asked them, and his reaction of slamming his hand on the table and laughing over Ali’s response.

Award-winning musician and film score composer Nitin Sawhney wrote on X/Twitter: “Madeley really is an arrogant, ignorant, patronising piece of work isn’t he? He addressed a president with mocking laughter and aggressive table thumping in response to a request for Britain’s historical exploitation of slave Labour to be acknowledged.”

@L_A_D_J added: “Richard Madeley, a breakfast news show host, talking down to and mocking the PRESIDENT of another country with a pompous fake laugh. The f***ing disrespect and entitlement is insane.”

Meanwhile, @TerrelleGraham wrote: “Who does Richard Madeley think he is? Slamming his hand down on the desk and talking to the President of Guyana in such a rude and disrespectful manner. The subject matter of this discussion makes his behaviour even worse.” (The Independent)

Richard Madeley is being called out for ‘ignorant’ treatment of Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali on ‘GMB’

- ‘GMB’ host Madeley grew increasingly infuriated while questioning the Head of State about slavery reparations

Financial architecture reform pivotal to development - President Ali says

By Trina Williams

DEVELOPING and least developed countries are struggling with debt distress and debt servicing, prompting President Dr. Irfaan Ali to call for financial architecture reform in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At the time, the President was, on Wednesday, taking part in a High-level Dialogue on Financing for Development at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The High-level Dialogue on Financing for Development took place under the overarching theme: “Financing the SDGs for a world where no one is left behind.”

The President said: “Development Finance is critical to achieving the sustainable development goals and, therefore, the lack of progress is directly linked to the deficit and available

financing for developing countries.”

While reiterating the challenges that developing countries are being bombarded with, he firmly stated: “The financial architecture, which is auto sync with the needs of developing countries, must be reformed.”

Speaking more on the much-needed reformation, the Head of State said: “In

this regard the early adoption of a multi-dimensional vulnerability index, implementing the measures in the Bridgetown initiative, addressing liquidity support, private capital, development lending and more inclusive governance of international finance institution must form part of the reform agenda.”

Dr. Ali then reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to

collaborating with international institutions in order to provide solid measurable actions.

Moreover, while highlighting the three major crises that are becoming global concerns- energy insecurity, food insecurity and climate change- the President maintained that the existing financial architecture is unable to tackle those issues head on and what is currently happening in the world is evidence of this.

The Head of State related: “The consensus is that the existing financial architecture is incapable of addressing the global challenges confronting us: food insecurity, energy insecurity and the impacts of climate change.

Reform of the financial architecture must be addressed urgently, if we are to get back on track to achieve our development goals.”

Pointing out what is globally transpiring, the

US, OAS rally behind Guyana’s...

FROM PAGE 2

decide any other dispute between the parties would ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law,” the president said.

In April of this year, the world court ruled that the case Guyana brought before it seeking to affirm the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award settling the boundaries between it and Venezuela was admissible.

This meant that the court could move forward with hearing the substantive case on its merits, of whether the 1899 arbitral award set-

tling the boundaries of the two countries is valid and binding.

The ruling marked the second time that the international court has rejected jurisdictional objections raised by Venezuela.

Guyana moved to the ICJ with its case in March 2018, challenging the non-participating Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela over its disagreement on the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Award.

Venezuela maintained that the ICJ was without jurisdiction to hear the case and refused to participate in

the court proceedings.

The Spanish-speaking country had claimed that it is the “sole indisputable inheritor” of the Essequibo region and the Monetary Gold Principle.

Although Venezuela had claimed that the ICJ did not have jurisdiction to hear the substantive case, the country made a U-turn following the court’s December 2020 ruling on that aspect of the case.

Venezuela on that occasion contended that Guyana had

President provided some shocking statistics, in order to highlight how gloomy the situation has become.

While providing the essential ‘wake-up’ call, among several of the global situations he emphasised were: 60 per cent of least developing countries are in debt distress or are at high risk and debt servicing is swallowing up more than a quarter of all government revenue in Sub Saharan Africa.

“Interest rates’ hikes and soaring debt levels will cost developing countries billions of dollars in the coming years,” the President firmly remarked.

Turning his attention to the climbing energy crisis, Dr. Ali stated that the International Energy Agency has estimated that to limit the rise of global temperature, to less than two degrees Celsius, the investment within the energy sector would have to be increased approximately $1 trillion per year. And

that is just to transition from fossil fuels.

After emphasising on that point, he said: “This is most sobering when you consider that close to 900 million people in developing countries have no access to electricity,” adding that the commitments being made must be fulfilled.

The Guyanese Head of State is currently in New York and will be attending a number of forums to further discussion on the SDG’s, financing and climate change.

He is accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd; Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud; Permanent Secretary at Foreign Affairs Ministry, Elizabeth Harper; Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, and Director of Projects at the Office of the President, Marcia Nadir-Sharma.

no standing in the matter. The court unanimously rejected Venezuela’s objection.

Guyana is seeking a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains valid and that the Essequibo region belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (Office of the President Photo)

Justice not palaces

IN a world grappling with the weight of historical injustices, the question of reparations for past wrongs has never been more relevant.

The seriousness of this topic was reinforced when a presenter of the Good Morning Britain show, Richard Madeley, asked Guyana's President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, if descendants of slavery desired a palace from the British Royal Family as a symbol of reparations.

President Ali's response to this ill-conceived and unorthodox question from the presenter, was nothing short of profound, emphasising that what Guyana's ancestors truly sought was not opulent palaces, but

rather fair justice.

Reparative justice is a concept that has gained traction in recent years as societies worldwide have recognised the need to address historical wrongs and their ongoing impacts.

It goes beyond mere apologies or symbolic gestures; it seeks to redress past injustices in a meaningful and substantive way. Guyana's President eloquently captures the essence of this crucial concept by refocusing the conversation on justice itself rather than symbolic gestures.

It is imperative to understand the context in which President Ali's response was given. Guyana, like many other

countries, has a painful history marred by colonialism, exploitation, and the lasting scars of slavery. The legacy of these historical wrongs continues to shape the socio-economic disparities, systemic racism, and inequalities that persist today.

The notion of a palace as a form of reparations, misses the point entirely. Palaces are symbols of privilege and power, and were built using resources acquired from the exploitation of countries like Guyana in the days of slavery. Reparations, in the truest sense, should be aimed at rectifying these structural inequalities.

President Ali's response underscores the

importance of approaching reparative justice with seriousness and purpose. It involves a multifaceted approach, acknowledging historical wrongs, providing restitution to affected communities, and implementing policies and programmes that promote equality and justice.

Research papers and studies have long established the mechanisms through which reparative justice can be achieved. These mechanisms include financial compensation, land restitution, educational initiatives, healthcare access, and criminal justice reform, among others. The goal is not just to rectify past wrongs but to create a more equitable and just

society for all.

Reparative justice is not a one-size-fits-all solution, as the specific circumstances of each nation and its history must be taken into account. It is a process that requires collective reflection, acknowledgment of the past, and a commitment to building a better future.

President Ali's response serves as a reminder that true reparations require far more than symbolic gestures or token offerings. They demand a genuine commitment to addressing historical injustices and the implementation of policies that pave the way for a fairer and more equitable society. It is a call to prioritise justice over

opulence, fairness over symbolism, and action over empty promises.

Guyana's President has set an example by redirecting the conversation towards the heart of the matter: The pursuit of reparative justice. It is a message that resonates far beyond Guyana's borders, urging nations to confront their own histories and work towards a more just and equitable world.

The call for reparations is not a call for handouts; it is a call for fairness, equity, and justice – values that should be at the forefront of our collective consciousness as we seek to right the wrongs of the past and build a more inclusive future.

First Lady’s beautification project enormous success, commendable

Dear Editor,

As a civil society commentator, it is fair to give credit where credit is due, and offer critiques when necessary. I attended the dedication of the Kingston Bandstand area development completed by the Office of the First Lady.

I consider the project to be an enormous success which should be replicated in other areas in Guyana.

Maybe the Office of the First Lady can do a similar project at the Central

Corentyne Whim Community Centre Ground which has a large playground area in need of development. The No. 63 Beach is also awaiting a similar development for a long time.

The Office of the First Lady has transformed the Bandstand area with this project. The area looks nicer, feels clean, orderly, and safer with a Police Outpost there. The Food Court area looks clean and nice, and there is a washroom area and handwashing station.

These are important conveniences in a recreational area. Contrast this area with the adjacent seawall area that looks unregulated, with a hodge podge of stalls that a visitor would want to stay away from.

The competent authority needs to step in and adopt some of the quality found in the First Lady’s Kingston Bandstand project for that unregulated area.

The Office of the First Lady has demonstrated

that once they embark on a project, it will be well accomplished. The First Lady is able to secure cooperation from donors and the appropriate government agencies to secure successful completion of projects.

I am glad the First Lady is focusing on environmental beautification and a clean environment much needed to improve Guyana’s image and to boost tourism. Guyana is a beautiful country but a sense of what good land-

scaping looks like and a culture of cleanliness are sadly lacking.

Therefore, the “Dem Boys Seh” column should lighten up and offer an apology to the Office of the First Lady for their unwarranted criticisms of the project. (“De old Seawall has gone! KN, Sep 16, 2023). I usually agree with most of their commentary but their criticism of the project seems nit-picky and what mental health people will call “awfulising.”

Dem Boys made a good thing look like a bad thing. Sure, the old, nasty “kai” look is gone and replaced with beautifully designed structures. We need more of this to make Guyana look nice. Continue the good work First Lady! Maybe issue a report card of costs and private donors for skeptics such as “Dem Boys Seh.” Let’s be proud of the new Bandstand area!

Sincerely,

Dr. Jerry Jailall

‘We want Justice not a palace’ – President Ali tells British presenter, Richard Madeley, during interview

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has declared that Guyana is not looking for a palace from the British, but justice, and the descendants of European slave traders should offer reparations to address historical wrongs.

On Wednesday, President Ali appeared on the ‘Good Morning Britain’ show, hours before he addressed world leaders at the UN General Assembly in New York. During the interview, he stated his belief that the UK needs to realise it “still benefits” from its historical role in slavery.

“You should be concerned, and you should

pay because you, today, still benefit from the greatest indignity to the human being, and that is the slave trade. And not only did you benefit during the slave trade, and your country develop, but look at what it cost the developing world,” the President said.

He pointed out that during slavery, resources were used to build Britain, which led the country to become competitive, able to invest in mechanisation and developing countries like Guyana were left behind.

“So, you should be very concerned, because you are prime beneficiaries of ex -

ploits of slavery,” the President said.

The British presenter, Richard Madeley, inquired if the Royal Family should pay reparations or make a gesture, such as handing over a palace, but the president said no.

President Ali replied

and said, “We don’t want the British to hand over a palace that we built.”

The president continued: “If you go to many of the palaces in Britain, you’ll see the lovely hard work from Guyana. You will see the sweat, tears and

blood of the slaves who were exploited, and the revenue that was earned from the exploitation. So, we’re not asking for a palace; we’re asking for justice.”

Last month, heirs of the late British slave owner John Gladstonethe father of 19th century Prime Minister William Gladstone- issued an official apology to Guyana for the historical injustices of both slavery and indentureship.

Charles Gladstone, representing the family, expressed deep shame and regret for their ancestors’ role in these crimes during the launch of the Centre of

Migration and Diaspora Studies at the University of Guyana.

“It is with deep shame and regret that we acknowledge our ancestors’ involvement in this crime. With heartfelt sincerity we apologise to the descendants of the enslaved in Guyana,” Gladstone stated.

Noting that slavery was a crime against humanity, Charles said that his family has pledged to improve Guyana and forge meaningful relationships with the nation John Gladstone owned 2,500 enslaved Africans on his plantations.

State demands $2.1M repayment from reckless driver over damaged roundabout

TROY Humphrey, the driver responsible for the accident which caused damage to the Eccles/Haggs Bosch roundabout, has been ordered to repay the government a staggering $2.1 million for repair costs, or face legal proceedings.

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, SC., representing the State, issued a letter to Humphrey outlining the details of the incident that took place on September 15, 2023, at approximately 21:40 hours at the intersection of the Eccles to Mandela Four Lane Road and Dumpsite Road on the East Bank Demerara.

The collision involved Humphrey’s motor vehicle with registration number PAB 805 and resulted in significant damage to the roundabout.

According to the letter seen by this newspaper, investigations by the Guyana Police Force, supported by video footage of the incident, established that Humphrey drove recklessly, negligently, and at a high rate of speed while travelling south on the eastern carriageway of the Eccles to Mandela Four Lane Road.

As he approached the intersection with

Dumpsite Road, which was clearly marked with road signs, and the roundabout, Humphrey failed to stop or apply any brakes, resulting in a collision with the roundabout.

The Attorney General’s letter also highlighted that Humphrey’s reckless driving caused damage, not only to the roundabout, but also injuries to himself and passengers, Fulisa Burnette (his girlfriend) and Phillip Jeffery, both of whom were rendered unconscious due to the impact.

In response to the significant damage, the government incurred emergency repair costs totalling $2.1 million. These repairs included mobilisation and demobilisation, demolition of damaged sections, removal of debris, replace-

ment of stone pavers, repairs to the fountain rails, and various other restoration works to the roundabout and its water fountain.

The letter sent to Humphrey demanded that he pays the $2.1 million sum within 14 days of receipt to cover the costs of the emergency repair works. Failure to comply with this demand would result in legal proceedings against him, seeking the recovery of the specified sum as special damages, along with general damages, interest, and legal costs.

Furthermore, Attorney General Chambers underscored that this action was part of a broader strategy to address reckless and negligent behaviour by road users that led to the destruction of public property.

The government, in -

cluding public corporations and statutory authorities, will vigorously pursue compensation for damages and destruction of public assets caused by such irresponsible conduct.

The Chambers stated, “A similar approach will be adopted in relation to the destruction and damage to public property by whatever cause. Billions of dollars

are spent annually to repair and reconstruct public property damaged and destroyed by unlawful and/or highly irresponsible conduct.

Needless to say, this measure will be in addition to the institution of all relevant criminal charges disclosed, resulting from investigations conducted by the Guyana Police Force.”

Troy Humphrey

The car involved in the accident

President Irfaan Ali

Dangerous highway of hypocrisy

I QUOTE from a letter from Ms. Simone Mangal Joly (SMJ) in the newspapers of September 9, 2023 in which she denounces people (even though they are intellectually trained) who write in favour of the government.

“Some individuals supported by public salaries or other incentives, or who are otherwise openly egged on by leaders, patrol the airwaves and personally attack citizens who voice valid democratic concerns. They use their intellect to defend the current path of decay rather than protect our society.”

If this is not a graphic expression of mental jadedness then universities should stop teaching psychology courses. SMJ complains that anti-government critics are attacked when they denounce government’s undemocratic action, but in the same breath she attacks writers that treat the government favourably. She

implies that pro-government voices are given incentives to attack. She went on to state that these voices are egged on by leaders.

It flies into your mind immediately to ask SMJ who is egging her on in a letter in which she paints Guyana as an authoritarian state. SMJ does not live in Guyana and since she is not trained in political theory, maybe she should get some help in penning a comparative analysis of Guyana and the country she lives in.

One can ask SMJ who is egging on her friends in the Mulatto-Creole class that have referred to me twice as a dog. First, the editor-in-chief of Stabroek News (SN), Mr. Anand Persaud described me as a PPP lapdog. Then SMJ’s colleague, Dr. Nigel Westmaas referred to me as the PPP’s attack dog.

There is more. If you go to the online edition of SN, you will see there are comments attached to readers’

letters. From time to time the paper’s known moderator of the comments would respond to the readers’ comment. I am not spared his wrath.

I am literally scandalised by the moderator. Maybe SMJ can tell us if, in the country she lives, a leading newspaper would openly refer to a national columnist and known academic as a lapdog.

Putting that aside, let us travel on the highway of SMJ’s hypocrisy. She writes: “They actively deny and try to destroy any citizen space in which legitimate democratic concerns can be addressed.”

“What kind of nation do we envision for ourselves? One that suppresses and shames or one that listens, understands, and reforms? Do we expect the latter to emerge from silence? And do we not see our democratic power in collectively breaking this silence?”

In the quote above, SMJ

is referring to the government but her words apply with equal force to her colleagues in anti-government circles. SMJ publishes her letters in SN and Kaieteur News (KN). But the very newspapers she has space to roam about in, that space has been denied to others.

There is a young man in Guyana with a fine analytical mind. He is perhaps the best financial analyst in Guyana today. His name is Joel Bhagwandin. KN has a barefaced policy of not carrying his letters. Maybe SMJ can ask Mr. Glen Lall why he carries her letters and not Bhagwandin’s.

Then there is one of the most learned professors in International Relations that Guyana produced – Dr. Randolph Persaud. SN informed him, through direct contact with Mr. Persaud that the professor’s opinions and

analyses will not be published if they carry attacks on civil society organisations. SN specifically named an anti-government outfit named Article 13 headed by Dr Yog Mahadeo and Christopher Ram. Where was SMJ when that scandal broke out? Only the iconic Guyanese, Ian MC Donald, had the courage to disagree with that decision by SN

For emphasis, let’s repeat the quote above because in hammering home its meaning and bringing out the hypocrisy of those who criticise the government what is laid bare for Guyanese to see are the threats to Guyana’s democracy.

Here is the quote from SMJ once more: “What kind of nation do we envision for ourselves? One that suppresses and shames or one that listens, understands, and reforms?”

Let me leave SMJ with a fraction of my memory bank in a country I have given all my life to. I hope this adds to her knowledge of politics. My research of declassified British documents led me to conclude that Martin Carter was the mole for British intelligence in the PPP in the early 1950s.

So, I wrote what I discovered about Mr. Carter with supporting evidence of his close relationship with the colonial administration in British Guiana. After its publication in the Kaieteur News, Carter’s relatives and family members protested to Mr. Lall who ordered that the column be removed from the online edition. These are the people that deny us democratic space. I include SMJ among them.

US produce safety rules training for 25 farmers, extensionists

A THREE-DAY Grower Training Workshop for Guyana is being held by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and supported by United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agriculture Service (USDA FAS) to promote comprehension of the Food Safety Modernisation Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule.

Some 25 fruit and vegetable growers and extensionists will be exposed to a series of indoor and outdoor training exercises that seek to prepare them to be able to meet the requirements

and therefore we welcome this training course which will enhance the technical capacity of agricultural producers to comply with the requirements of the United States Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA),” the minister explained.

He further stated that while the Government is steadfast in its efforts to ramp up production of several priority commodities, among which are fruits and vegetables, the ultimate goal is to reduce the country’s dependency on extra-regional imports while creating an environment for local exporters to be able to access international markets.

and reduce foodborne illnesses.

“All agricultural producers, current and potential exporters must have a basic understanding of microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be found on the farm, how to identify microbial risks, practices that reduce risks, and how to begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm, parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one, and the requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet them,” Minister Mustapha added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in

US Permanent Representative discusses critical issues with Guyana

PRESIDENT Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali met with the Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the Guyana Mission in New York on Wednesday on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly.

During the meeting, President Ali and the Ambassador discussed Guyana’s upcoming member-

ship of the UN Security Council, and areas of mutual interest and concern, including food security, climate change, democracy, the situation in Haiti, and recent developments concerning the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy, including the upcoming case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd, Minister of

Health Dr. Frank Anthony, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper and other officials also attended the meeting.

The US delegation included the United States Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian Nichols, and other officials.

to export fresh fruits and vegetables to the United States of America.

The aim of the programme, which is being funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is to increase competitiveness and the technical capacity of food safety professionals to comply with the requirements of the United States FSMA.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, while delivering remarks during the opening ceremony of the workshop, welcomed the exercise which seeks to enhance the technical capacity of agricultural producers, and acknowledged that the development of Guyana’s food safety system is an ongoing process.

“Guyana’s national policies are aligned with CARICOM’s Vision 25 by 2025, and as the lead for agriculture in CARICOM, has been on the fast track to replacing imported food and being a major regional exporter of food. As such, we have no option but to rapidly improve our food control systems to fully meet regional and international standards. The Government of Guyana acknowledges that the development of our food safety system is an ongoing process,

“While we are doing everything to ramp up production of several priority commodities, among which are fruits and vegetables, we are aiming to reduce our dependency on extra-regional imports and also create the environment for our exporters to be able to access international markets. As of half-year (2023), Guyana’s other crops sub-sector grew by 9.4%.

In 2022 Guyana exported to the U.S. a quantity of fruits, vegetables and agro-processed products totaling 673,985 kg, with the total exports for the first half of 2023 increasing to 744,424kg. There has been an increasing demand for primary products and agro-processed products such as coconut and coconut water, fresh and frozen fruits, pineapples, mangoes, achar, and pepper among several other commodities,” he noted.

Minister Mustapha noted too that, while the government continues to place emphasis on food safety as an important step in Guyana’s quest towards expanding its export potential, growers and producers need to be able to meet all regulatory standards for the production, harvest, and handling of fruits and vegetables in an effort to prevent microbial contamination

Guyana Ms. Adrienne Galanek noted that the exercise is a product of a partnership between the United States of America and the Caribbean to address the climate crisis food security initiative.

“Notably, this collaborative effort is an outcome of the US-Caribbean partnership to address the climate crisis food security initiative which was launched after the 9th Summit of the Americas. This activity is also in response to requests made by Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC). The excellent three-day course will promote a greater understanding of the US FDA Food Safety Modernization Act produce safety rule. The rule establishes science-based minimum standards for the safe growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of fruits and vegetables grown for human consumption,” Ms. Galanke noted.

Over the next three days, experts from IICA’s headquarters in Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago’s National Agriculture Marketing Development Corporation along with other staff from IICA’s Guyana office will guide the proceedings which are scheduled to conclude on Friday.

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, along with other officials during the opening of the Grower Training Course

Traffic diverted with Grove/ Diamond main road rehabilitation

THE Special Projects Unit of the Ministry of Public Works started rehabilitating the middle section of the main road in Grove/Diamond, leading to slight traffic disruption.

Subject Minister

Bishop Juan Edghill, on Wednesday morning, visited the site, where he conducted a thorough assessment of the situation and explored potential alternative routes to facilitate traffic.

Minister Edghill high-

lighted that the move will enable efficient road repairs. Due to the gravity of the work that has to be conducted, there cannot be heavy traffic on the main thoroughfare.

Traffic will now be rerouted through 3rd Av-

enue in Diamond, where an ongoing road construction project is underway.

“We have developed a plan and that plan is to make a bypass which will come through Diamond and would come out at Jimbo Bridge and eventually further up so that the corridor where we’re having difficulties will be easily accessible for machines and construction to take place,” the public works minister explained.

“Even when we come out at 10 in the night or 2

am to get work done on that road, without having a diversion of traffic we can’t get anything done… so as of now, we are trying to move heavy machinery into the location to be able to start excavating,” the minister added.

He noted, however, that the diversion will primarily accommodate lighter vehicles including cars, buses, and potentially, canters.

“We have arranged with the police to start diverting all light traffic,”

Minister Edghill told the Department of Public Information (DPI). Trucks are still allowed to traverse the main Grove/Diamond thoroughfare but with much caution.

Minister Edghill urged commuters to exercise caution while travelling both areas and pleaded for their patience, noting that the team has been working aggressively to restore normalcy as swiftly as possible.

The Ministry of Public Works’ Special Projects Unit working to fix the Grove/Diamond Public Road

Drones to improve farming in Guyana’s rice production

THE Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) is getting support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to enhance rice industry technology as part of the China South-South Cooperation Programme.

The project commenced with the handing over of five drones and related software and accessories to the GRDB, along with two weeks of training on the use of the new equipment. It is an initiative in response to recovery from the impacts of COVID-19 for countries of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). The main aim is to support rural livelihoods and food systems so that smallholder farmers in rural communities can increase their competitiveness.

Introducing drones and a geographic information system (GIS) mapping in Guyana will allow rice farmers

Region Five, stated GRDB Extension officers from Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, and Six attended

ment, and capacity building in the public sector. The second is GISCAD, a leading provider of GIS-related services

aid in the efficient use of resources, and, overall, support management decisions to improve yields and livelihoods.

be used as raw data in the next stage of this project which focuses on data analysis and participatory GIS. This training

project, GRDB, through its Farmers Field School (FFS) Programme, will train farmers on the integration

to comprehensively monitor their production plots during the various growth phases in a timely manner and provide data for key decisions needed to improve and advance rice production.

“We have completed two weeks of training to fly the drones, this will help me and my colleagues with data collection and monitoring of rice fields so that we can give farmers real-time advice to make good decisions as it relates to their crops,” Quacy Wilson, Extension Officer of

the training. In the first week, virtual training was done to cover the theory of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) hardware, applications, maintenance, and preflight planning.

in the Caribbean. It has been supporting institutional capacity building in the region to enable ministry officials to understand and operate high-technology geospatial

At the end of the training, participants will fly the drones and map between 200 to 500 acres in their respective regions. The data collected through this assignment will

will commence on September 25, 2023, and will include an additional 12 officers from the GRDB Extension and Research departments.

In the final phase of this

of this technology into their farming practices. Farmers will be able to see how data is captured by drones and can be used to improve crop management.

The second week entailed in-person training which covered areas of safety guidelines, maintenance, mission planning and execution, best practices for UAS operation, practical flight training, and handling emergencies and data management.

The training was facilitated by OIKO, a consultancy firm out of Spain, that has partnered with two consulting firms. The first is OpenPlan, an international consultancy specialising in geospatial analysis planning policy develop-

analysis software and UAS, as well as participatory GIS mapping.

The knowledge and skills necessary to operate UAS safely will help to monitor rice cultivation to collect detailed information on crop establishment, plant health, crop type, and crop growth stages. It will also help with land, water, and fertiliser usage and further help to assess impact in the event of a disaster.

The data gathered from drone monitoring will help to enhance production practices,

Practical training with trainers from OIKO/GISCAS and GRDB Extension Officers

The drones were handed over to the GRDB

Outstanding leadership recognised at

GDF Senior Leader’s Course graduation

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Senior Leader’s Course Number 13 (SLC 13) on Tuesday came to a close with 15 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) graduating following 17 weeks of intensive training.

The graduation and closing ceremony were held at the Jaguar Lecture Hall, at Training Corps Headquarters, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri.

The SLC trains SNCOs to function as Unit and Sub-Unit Sergeant Majors across the full spectrum of military operations.

According to the GDF, during the course of their training, a number of subjects were covered including communication skills studies, minor staff duties, operational staff work, operations and administration, military law, leadership, drill, training, and environmental studies, management, current affairs, open country warfare (minor tactics), internal security, military ethics among others.

Staff Sergeant (SSGT) Shameka Devonish was adjudged the Best Graduating student, while SSGT Mark Critchlow was the runner-up. Senior Petty Officer Quincy Burton received the prize for Best Service Paper.

Force Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class One Raul Rodney, in his feature address, urged the graduates to be leaders worthy of emulation.

“As you progress in your careers, remember that leadership is about integrity, compassion and vision. It’s about understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your units and empowering each soldier to reach their full potential. It’s about being a mentor, a coach, and a guide to those who look up to you. Seek opportunities to mentor the next generation of leaders because your legacy is what you accomplish and who you inspire,” he urged.

The graduants with senior officers (seated)

Core home, improvement application process updated with mobile ‘app’

By Faith Greene

THE Home Improvement mobile app was launched on Wednesday by the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Central Planning and Housing Authority, in collaboration with Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and V75 Company, to cater to Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHAUP) applicants.

Beneficiaries of the Core Home Support and Home Improvement Subsidy, under the Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme can now track the status of their application from start to end with the help of a new mobile app.

It is through this initiative, that applicants can now enjoy real-time updates on when they will receive the keys to their core home or receive materials to enhance their home.

As the Ministry continues to explore and incorporate the use of technology in its service delivery to citizens this is the first such App coming from the agency.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, in his feature address, pointed out that, as long as individuals have access to the internet, they will be able to utilise the online platform from anywhere in the world.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, said that the app allows beneficiaries to have the power in their hands.

“Everybody has a mobile device these days, and so, access to information gives you power and gives you control over your own participation in this programme.”

Minister Rodrigues noted that the initiative has several benefits that can be acquired through the new access to information.

She said, “One that is being very convenient for you to know the status of your application; for you to monitor your payments, for example. So, it’s very convenient for updates.”

Minister Rodrigues pointed out that many of the Ministry's beneficiaries are elderly and that lack of communication can cause them to become anxious.

That she said will no longer be possible with this programme. Once selected as a beneficiary, no one is forgotten.

Director of V75 Company, Asa Bouret, in his remarks, said that the application will allow persons to monitor their applications, whether it’s tracking the status of applications and much more.

This app acts as a central repository for easy, fast, and safe access to applicants’ data, timely notifications, and several other features.

The solution, Bouret remarked, has three components. These are

(i) the central database, where all information is stored and can be accessed at any time by applicants;

(ii) the staff portal which can be accessed by staff of the CH&PA and Minis-

Beneficiaries receiving the keys to their core homes on Thursday (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

Mid-Year Report: Fire Service infrastructure boosted with $141.9M

THE infrastructure of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has been boosted with $141.9 million already expended in the first half

of 2023, according to the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Year Report 2023.

Construction of living quarters at New

Amsterdam, Fire Service Headquarters in Georgetown, and stations at Wales, Region Three, and Ogle, Region Four have been

completed.

Works have also advanced on the construction of the Leonora and Diamond fire stations.

In the area of prevention and protection, the Fire Service’s capability to respond to fires and save lives and properties will be enhanced, as 148 hydrants have been procured and will be installed by the end of the year.

Also, an excavator was acquired to improve the installation of fire hydrants and additional firefighting equipment will be procured in the latter half of the year.

Emphasis was also placed on enhancing the human resource pool as

189 officers completed training in areas such as basic recruit training, supervisory management, and computer training, among others to the tune of $2.4 million.

Another 110 officers are expected to undergo the emergency medical technician course, as well as basic recruit training. These initiatives will aid in improving response time and firefighting techniques.

Meanwhile, investments totaling $333 million were pumped into the Guyana Prison

Service in the first half of 2023.

A total of 324 inmates received rehabilitative training at a sum of $40.7 million, in areas including agriculture, block making, carpentry and joinery, and culinary arts, among others. Some 725 inmates are currently being trained and are scheduled to graduate in August 2023, while an additional 451 inmates are expected to undergo training in the second half of 2023.

Rotary Club of Georgetown receives BOP spay donation from DeSinco Limited

TO support the community response to Dengue Fever and other preventable diseases caused by flying and crawling insects, DeSinco Limited recently donated a substantial quantity of BOP Insecticide Spray to the Rotary Club of Georgetown.

According to Rotary Georgetown, residents of communities in Regions Four, Six and Ten will receive the donations through community engagement exercises. Some institutions slated to benefit

from the donations are health centres, schools, daycares and clinics, a press statement from DeSinco said.

The statement added that BOP Insecticide Spray which is distributed by DeSinco Limited is the number one insecticide brand in the Caribbean and a complete solution to insect problems as it effectively eliminates all indoor flying and crawling insects.

According to the company, the donation was made in response to the high number of

new Dengue cases that are being recorded daily in Guyana.

“DeSinco Limited and BOP are passionate about giving back and will continue to partner with governmental and non-governmental organisations to protect the Guyanese communities through preventive measures for reducing the spread of infectious and vector-borne diseases that can greatly increase morbidity and mortality,” it added.

Soldiers assist with heritage celebrations in Region Seven

Soldiers

TO support Amerindian Heritage celebrations, a group of Guyana Defence Force officers and ranks travelled to Batavia in the Lower Cuyuni River of Region Seven. This year's Heritage Village for national celebrations is Batavia.

The group helped the

assist in constructing several edifices

locals with arrangements by constructing several edifices and preparing specific zones for the occasion. President and Commander-in-Chief, Dr Irfaan Ali, Ministers of Government, Chiefof-Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, Heads of the Joint Services, and members

of the Diplomatic Corps attended the Heritage Day observances in the village.

The President and visiting party were received by a GDF Guard of Honour, before the commencement of the cultural show and other festivities.

Core home, improvement...

FROM PAGE 13

try of Housing and will facilitate better handling of applications, and (iii) the mobile application.

Meanwhile, with the App officially live in the Google Play Store and the Apple Store, five families were, on Wednesday, presented the keys to their new Core Homes after being notified, via the app, that the keys were available, while another six beneficiaries for the Home Improvement Subsidy were notified that delivery of construction materials is slated for today ( Thursday, September 21, 2023.)

In an invited comment, Pauline Harry, a person who is blind, said that she is eager to receive the keys to her home. The 67-year-old woman who had recon-

structed her home said she had been living uncomfortably for a year now, and was happy to have her own home once again.

Meanwhile, Sabitri Persaud said that it will be her first home, adding that it will allow her to save more money. The new home-owner said she had been waiting for a year and two months and was grateful for the opportunity.

Another beneficiary,

Paulette Niles, said she felt great. Niles said that, like her mom, she too did not have the chance to own her own home. She noted that she had been living with her sister for a number of years before deciding to apply.

The woman said she attended every meeting, even if she was late. She encourages others to just have faith and they will get through it.

GBA honours Caribbean Schoolboys’ & Juniors Championships top performers

THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) on Wednesday held “a simple but significant ceremony to recognise the contributions that would’ve been made at the last Caribbean Schoolboys & Juniors tournament”.

The event was held at the Mirage Banquet Hall at the corner of Third and Albert Streets Alberttown

Noting that it is a record sixth time that Guyana is accomplishing such a feat , GBA President Steve Ninvalle said during his address, that Guyana did not emerge as the overall winner in all six editions of this marquee junior boxing championship based on luck, but because

of the effort of several individuals and organisations , among them the referee’s commission, coaches , boxers , and GBA Executive Members

Besides announcing that 2023 has been a rather good year for Guyana on the international scene, thanks to Desmond Amsterdam and Keevin Allicock securing medals at the AMBC tournament, thereby qualifying for the PanAm Games in Chile next month, Ninvalle said that on the local front, boxing has shown “a gradual progression”, particularly at the school level, of which he is rather proud

Coach Sebert Blake, who

was also present at the presentation , said : “ I want to thank the parents who have been involved over the years, ensuring that the kids attend the camps, and have everything They play a critical role Kudos to the youngsters who have been involved, and stuck with it as well.”

In Closing, GBA Technical Director, Terrence Poole, M.S., said: “I want the world to see the improvement of amateur boxing in Guyana

“This prizegiving ceremony is a great gesture by the executive of the GBA; it will serve as motivation, and help attract even more boxers , based on this incentive.”

Kane on target for Bayern as Man United beaten again

MANCHESTER United were given a taste of what could have been as Harry Kane helped Bayern Munich to victory over Erik ten Hag’s struggling side in a high-scoring and eventful Champions League opener.

It was no secret that the Red Devils would have liked to have signed Kane from Tottenham in the summer , but instead England’s captain and record goalscorer opted for a career in Germany that has begun in stellar fashion

At the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, the 30-year-old claimed both an assist and scored from the penalty spot - after a VAR check to rule Christian Eriksen had handled in the box - to take his tally of goals this season to five in five games in all competitions

It was a timely strike from Kane too as it came just after Rasmus Hojland had scored his first United goal to make it 2-1 early in the second half and give his side some hope of a result

Before that, goalkeeper Andre Onana had undone a disciplined start from the visitors with a shocking error to allow Leroy Sane’s drive to slip under him and find the net in the 28th

minute

Four minutes later, Serge Gnabry struck low and accurately inside the far corner to make it 2-0

It is to the visitors’ credit that they came out swinging to try and make a contest of it but their current fragility and lack of options from the bench as a result of numerous injuries undermined their ability to compete.

Casemiro showed dogged determination to smuggle a second in for United to give them a glimmer of hope but Mathys Tel snuffed that out by hammering a Bayern fourth high into the net in added time

United were not finished, with Casemiro heading home Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick from close range with almost the last kick of the game, but it was too late

An opening - game loss at the six-time champions of Europe will not define the campaign , especially with FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray - who drew 2-2 earlier on Wednesday in Istanbul - both more beatable in the group, but they are now in dire need of a response to restore some focus and faith

Some fight but too much fragility from United

After a 2022-23 campaign of progress , United are again sailing in choppy waters

Last season, Ten Hag looked to have steadied one of European football ’ s biggest ships following the failure of the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer tenure and the ill-advised interim experiment with Ralf Rangnick

Having led them to a first piece of major silverware in six seasons and

back into the Champions League, optimism was high at the club ahead of this campaign.

But three defeats from the first five league gamestheir worst league start in a decade - has seen this rapidly evaporate and now they must digest a humbling start to their European campaign

It could have been different . They could , and probably should, have led inside five minutes as Alphonso Davies’ timely tack-

le stopped Facundo Pellistri tapping in but set up Christian Eriksen to fire an effort from close range straight at Sven Ulreich

Similarly, at the start of the second half , had they been able to test Bayern’s resolve for longer at 2-1 rather than conceding again inside five minutes they may have taken something

And then at the end they showed fight to forge Casemiro’s double only for that to be made moot by their soft concession of a fourth

This is a United side undone by early - season results, injuries and costly moments of ineptitude.

Onana’s error was a shocker and one a side with such fragile confidence can ill afford It was followed by a period where players seemed happier to hide than rally in the face of adversity

Before Wednesday ’ s game , Ten Hag bemoaned that he had yet to field his strongest XI during his tenure and maybe it is only fair to judge him and his side this season when they are closer to that?

But this is still a United side with talent in it and one that needs to not only win at Burnley on Saturday but do so convincingly

Kane plays his part as Bayern set the early pace Bayern were not at their best . They have not been so for much of this season. They were also without suspended manager Thomas Tuchel as assistant Zsolt Low took charge on the touchline

But they are a winning machine and with Kane in attack, supplemented by Sane, Gnabry and Musiala , they will be a test for any defence on the continent , let alone one as currently shaky as United’s.

It was not Kane’s best game, with him floating in and out of it , but he did what was required. His neat set-up enabled the opener and he made no mistake with a typically ruthless penalty.

They should have scored more, hitting the post twice after the break, and allowed United footholds in the game, but their ability to move rapidly up through the gears remains highly impressive

That is 35 games unbeaten now for the German champions in the group stage of this competition and 15 straight home wins. It gives them early control of Group . (BBC Sport)

Harry Kane has been directly involved in seven goals in his last 10 appearances against Manchester United.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle (centre) and the awardees

2023 CG United Super50 Cup to bowl off October 17 with new eight-team league format

CRICKET West Indies

( CWI ) has announced the match schedule and venues for the CG United Super50 Cup 2023. The region’s premier List A 50-over tournament will bowl off on Tuesday, 17 October and conclude on Saturday, 11 November in Trinidad with a new eight-team league format followed by semi - finals and finals to determine the champions

The tournament will feature 31 matches to be played at three venues

- the Brian Lara Cricket Academy ( BLCA ), the Queen’s Park Oval (QPO) and the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Grounds of the University of the West Indies Sport and Physical Education Centre ( UWI SPEC) at the St Augustine Camus All 13 matches at the Brian Lara Academy, including the semi-finals and final, will be televised live on ESPN Caribbean, with 12 of those matches being day/night games

This year’s CG United Super50 Cup will feature a new eight - team league with each of the teams facing each other once. The top four in the league will qualify for the “final four”.

First place will play fourth place, with second place playing third place in the two semi-finals which are slated for BLCA on

FULL MATCH SCHEDULE

Wednesday, 8 November and Thursday, 9 November

The final will be at the same venue on Saturday, 11 November, where the winners will be become CG United Super50 Cup Champions and lift the Sir Clive Lloyd Trophy

The West Indies Academy and Combined Campuses & Colleges (CCC) will again join the

traditional six franchises – defending champions Jamaica Scorpions, Barbados Pride , Guyana Harpy Eagles, Leeward Islands Hurricanes , Trinidad & Tobago Red Force and Windward Islands Volcanoes

Home side Trinidad & Tobago Red Force open this year ’ s tournament when they take on the CCC at the Queen’s Park

Venues: Queen’s Park Oval (QPO); Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA); UWI SPEC All other matches streamed live on the Windiescricket YouTube channel

17 October: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs CCC at QPO – 9am

17 October: Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Windward Islands Volcanoes at BLCA – 1pm

18 October: Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Jamaica Scorpions at BLCA – 1pm

19 October: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Windward Islands Volcanoes at QPO – 9am

19 October: CCC vs West Indies Academy at BLCA – 1pm

20 October: Barbados Pride vs Jamaica Scorpions at UWI SPEC – 9am

21 October: Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs West Indies Academy at QPO – 9am

21 October: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Guyana Harpy Eagles at BLCA – 1pm

22 October: Windward Islands Volcanoes vs CCC at UWI SPEC – 9am

23 October: Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes at QPO – 9am23 October: Barbados Pride vs West Indies Academy at UWI SPEC – 9am

25 October: Windward Islands Volcanoes vs Barbados Pride at BLCA - 9am

25 October: West Indies Academy vs Jamaica Scorpions at QPO – 9am

25 October: Guyana Harpy Eagles vs CCC at UWI SPEC – 9am

Oval on 17 October at 9am Later on that day the Guyana Harpy Eagles face Windward Islands Volcanoes at BLCA at 1pm in the first televised contest

“This is a crucial stage in our planning as we look to build towards the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 We see the upcoming CG United Super50 Cup as the perfect platform to establish and incentivize

a West Indies brand of play in the 50-over format, and for the emergence of new talent ,” said Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket

“The introduction of the round-robin format will provide players with more ‘ playing time ’ in the middle as well as a balanced way of gauging individual and team performances . We are

pleased to again have CCC and the West Indies Academy participating at the senior level as they join the other six franchise teams as we look to widen the pool of players.”

Dominic Warne , CWI’s Commercial Director said believes the league format will provide fans with greater entertainment “ The move to an eight - team league in the CG United Super50 Cup provides fans with an exciting tournament schedule with 31 matches scheduled in 26 days.

Every game will be available from first ball to last either live on ESPN Caribbean or streamed live on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel,” he said. “The new windiescricket com Live Match Centre will also give fans full match analysis plus live ball-by-ball scoring and commentary for all 31 matches giving the widest access and coverage to the CG United Super50 Cup than ever before We again welcome and thank our title sponsor and CWI Official insurance partners CG United for their fifth consecutive year of support which provides significant investment in cricket throughout the West Indies.”

26 October: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes at BLCA – 1pm

27 October: Jamaica Scorpions vs CCC at UWI SPEC – 9am

28 October: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs West Indies Academy at QPO – 9am

29 October: Barbados Pride vs Guyana Harpy Eagles at UWI SPEC – 9am

29 October: Jamaica Scorpions vs Windward Islands Volcanoes at BLCA – 1pm

31 October: Windward Islands Volcanoes vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes at QPO – 9am

31 October: CCC vs Barbados Pride at UWI SPEC – 9am

1 November: West Indies Academy vs Guyana Harpy Eagles at UWI SPEC – 9am

2 November: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Jamaica Scorpions at QPO – 9am2 November:

Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Barbados Pride at BLCA – 1pm

3 November: West Indies Academy vs Windward Islands Volcanoes at UWI SPEC – 9am

4 November: CCC vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes at QPO – 9am

4 November: Jamaica Scorpions vs Guyana Harpy Eagles at BLCA – 1pm

5 November: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Barbados Pride at BLCA – 1pm

8 November: Semi-Final 1 at BLCA – 1pm

9 November: Semi-Final 2 at BLCA – 1pm

11 November: Final at BLCA – 1pm

The region’s premier List A 50-over tournament will bowl off on Tueday October 17, and conclude on Saturday, November 17

GFF beginners course signals wind of change

–with fresh new faces on local refereeing scene

GIVEN the fact that football presently suffers due to the unavailability of proper playing facilities in Linden, considering there are other factors are hampering the game from being played there, one must admit that there is a shortage of officials.

And this was borne out recently when an attempt was made to start a Senior League competition about one month ago, and the Upper Demerara Football Association ( UDFA ) was advised to bring officials from Georgetown to ensure that the matches were played

So, one must commend the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)’s National Referees Committee, which conducted a three-day Beginners Course , from September 1-3, at the Mackenzie High School , in Linden , where , initially, 19 persons were in attendance, including some schoolteachers

And there must be a sense of satisfaction that the drive for new and young officials was taken up by young persons

Head of the Refereeing Body in the Upper Demerara region, former FIFA Assistant Referee Abdulla Hamid reminded his audience at the opening of the course that it was in 2013 when a previous GFF Beginners’ Course was held in Linden, where among those who participated was current Mackenzie High School teacher, current FIFA Referee Shavin Green, who got his FIFA Licence earlier this year

From 2013, Green has attended several other courses, including the elite Referees Course known as the Refereeing Assistance Programme (RAP), which was conducted by FIFA officials in 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the RAP Courses were done Online in 2020 and 2021, but Greene was given international appointments, and could not attend those RAP courses He is, however, due to attend another RAP Course next month

Prior to that 2013 introductory course, another Beginners Course was held in Linden at the Mackenzie Sports Club in 2009, where those who attended included Ms Maureese Skeete, who topped it, and went on to become a FIFA Referee

As Hamid noted: “We had about 20 to 25 referees in Linden, but because of jobs and people migrating, the availability of referees was depleted So, we have to rebuild, and this programme right now will see the development of referees in and around Linden, so they can serve the football community well

“We want to encourage other females and youngsters between the ages 16 and 25 years to be part if this exercise You can contact me, and I would get you into refereeing And once we get a high number, we can seek for another Beginners’ Course in Linden.”

Presently, Shavin Green and Denisha Isaacs are the two recognised FIFA officials, while another young promising female, Kenesha Prescott, is recognised nationally, and this year officiated at the FIFA Challenge Under 14 tournament in Antigua, where, by all accounts, she performed creditably

Looking back at the recent course, Hamid, the Upper Demerara Referees’ lead official, said: “The GFF had launched a programme to develop referees around the country, so we started in New Amsterdam in June, and then shifted to Linden

The Linden introductory course was a pretty well-organised course ; it was good We saw 19 participants attending, and this was through the drive of developing young male and female referees to be part of refereeing to develop the game, especially in Linden and around Guyana

“This 2023 Beginners’ Course was pretty much an eyeopener, because there is a shortage of referees in Linden and the rest of Guyana, because a lot of the referees here in Guyana are aging, and FIFA, CONCACAF and CFU are looking for younger referees, and putting them at the international standards.” (Joe Chapman)

Veteran Cricket Commentator, Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira happy and honoured to be home

By Shanya Harding

LONG-STANDING cricket commentator and vital contributor to sports across the West Indies, Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira has returned to Guyana at the invitation of President Dr Irfaan Ali ‘ Reds ’, as Perreira is commonly known , is Guyanese-born and a renowned cricket commentator, radio broadcaster and journalist , who has played many integral roles in the development of cricket and other sports in the West Indies over the decades

Both ‘Reds’ and his wife, Zandra Perreira, are currently in Guyana, getting reacquainted with the electrifying atmosphere , and anxiously awaiting this weekend’s CPL finals . Asked how he felt about receiving the invitation from His Excellency , ‘Reds’ said, “I am extremely honoured .” Perreira , who currently resides in St Lucia, says the invitation couldn’t come at a better time, as it’s been a while since he was last here. “I am happy to be back in Guyana since ‘COVID’.”

Perreira has been in the field of commentary for more than five decades He has worked with various

organisaations in a plethora of different sport disciplines during that time . Hailing from humble beginnings in the Pomeroon in Region Two ( Pomeroon - Supenaam ), Perreira began his career in the period before television, and used his voice , creativity , and in - depth understanding of cricket to help listeners enjoy the game in the time of the radio, particularly in the early 1970s and 1980s.

The son of a farmer, and the fifth of nine children , Perreira spent his childhood

years partaking in activities like fishing and farming

He never got involved in organised sport until 1945, when his family relocated to Charlestown, one of the many suburbs of Georgetown.

Remarkably , Perreira struggled with his speech in his youth, as he had a stammer up until the age of 20 This, however, even coupled with a host of other issues he had faced over the years, were no match for his determination to becoming known as the voice of cricket

In his book, ‘Living my Dreams’, Perreira describes how he was able to overcome his speech impediment, saying : “ I had to learn a technique , breathing hard to overcome the start of the word As I got better at that, the confidence came, and the stammering abated ; I was over the first hurdle I had not been able to say Rodriguez to save my life; then, all of a sudden, it was like being able to breathe.”

In 1959, Perriera got his big break in radio commentary, and, in 1971, commentated in his first test match at Bourda, when India toured the West Indies

And in the years following, Perreira began hosting a radio show in St Lucia , and has commentated for an estimated 150 Tests Notably, Perreira , spent time as the Sports Director of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) sports desk, and President of the St Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA).

Perreira has worked , fought for , and inspired many over the years across the Caribbean, cementing his place as the voice of cricket across the West Indies

William ‘The Conqueror’ France dead at 66

fondly remembered by former manager, Lesley Blacks

THE sports fraternity , especially the discipline of Athletics, was thrown into mourning on Tuesday morning when Guyana’s amputee marathon runner, 66-year-old William ‘ The Conqueror ’ France drew his last breath at his friend Oddet Hendericks’ residence in Sophia

France, whose right leg was amputated after he was shot, would later in life develop Parkinson’s Disease and other health complications, all of which eventually led to his demise

The recipient of a Medal of Service and the Walter Rodney Award, France is featured in the Guinness Book of Records for his many remarkable accomplishments as an athelete

Besides competing in the New York and Boston Marathons, he also participated in the annual Terry Fox Run, as well as Marathons here in his homeland, Guyana, London and Trinidad.

“I was instrumental in managing him to his first

marathon in the US, and several other events He was my brother-from-another- mother; may have had our ups and downs, but we always overcame those hurdles and passed on our brotherly love

“He was a warrior; he left a legacy showing persons that physically-challenged individuals can also achieve success in Sports,” said a visibly emotional Blacks

Among those he thanked for assisting in making France a success were:

“

The late Presidents Mr and Mrs Jagan, former Director of Sports Neil Kumar, and Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.”

He will be missed dearly … Sleep on my brother ” concluded the long-distance Coach who worked with Cleveland Forde and Alishia Fortune and several other ‘distance’ runners

Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira and his wife, Zandra Perriera

Athletes Lorrianne Adams, who won Guyana’s first Carifta Games double medals in 1989, and Alicia Fortune and Members of the GCOS with France in happier times

Linden’s FIFA Referee Shavin Green

By Sean Devers

A DESTRUCTIVE unbeaten 80 from Chadwick Walton led four-time champions Trinbago Knight Riders to their fifth CPL final by beating the Guyana Amazon Warriors for the 11th consecutive time in the tournament’s 11-year history with a crushing seven-wicket win last night in front of another sold-out crowd at the Providence Stadium.

Controlled bowling by the TKR restricted the Warriors to 166-7 , as only Saim Ayub, who demonstrated the type of consistency lacking among the Warriors batters with another fluent 49 from 39 balls, peppered with four fours and a six, as he fell a run short of the fourth fifty in this tournament

But only the burly Azam Khan, whose 36 lasted 27 balls, and included three fours and a six, reached 20

TKR , without an ill Sunil Narine , limited the Warriors to a below - par score, as pacer Terrence Hinds (2-32), and left-arm back-of-the-hand spinner Waqar Salamkheil (2-28) were the main wicket-takers for TKR, who needed to score at a required rate of 8.35, reached 167-3

Man - of - the - Match Walton smashed six fours and four sixes in his unbeaten 80 from 57 balls

Walton shared in fifty stands with Nicholas Pooran (33) and Kieron Pollard (23),

TKR destroys Warriors to roar into fifth CPL final

as Dwaine Pretorius had 2-36 Mark Deyal and Walton added 41 in 4.1 overs, with Deyal stroking Romario Shepherd for an imperious cover-driven boundary, and lofted Pretorius for six And when Walton clipped Shamar Joseph off his legs for four, the partisan crowd fell dead silent.

Tahir had Deyal LBW for 15, with a four and a six, before Walton edged two fortuitous boundaries from Joseph, who bowled with pace; the second one being dropped by a leaping Khan

After the six power-play overs, TKR were 56-1, as Pooran hit a rapid 33 from 24 balls, with two fours and two sixes, as the 50 stand came up in 42 balls, while after 10 overs, TKR were 80-1, before Pooran was removed at 92-2, but Walton kept going, and reached his 50 from 44 balls with four fours and two sixes

Pollard clobbered two fours and six in a quick-fire 23, and added 50 with Walton from 33 balls with two fours and three sixes before he departed at 158-3 But , by then , the supposedly diehard Warriors were walking on their team, as Walton put the finishing touches on the emphatic win with 11 balls to spare.

Warriors will hope to beat defending Champions Jamaica, tomorrow, to book a return clash with TKR on Sunday

Knight Riders invited the Warriors to bat on a track with some ‘pacer and carry’ and fast outfield Saim Ayub going with an

inside edge for four, Ali Khan after Andrew Russell had tested Ayub with a couple of quick short balls

The left-handed Ayub pulled Russell effortlessly for six, before opening face when Khan bowled for a boundary to third, and another capacity crowd roared its approval

Akeil Hossein was introduced in the fifth over, and the burly sweep for four, while Terrence Hinds and Chadwick Walton collided as Smith hit the ball miles into the night sky off Hinds on 11.

Ayub slashed Hinds for four , Ayub worked Hossein for two and benefitted from four overthrows, while Smith swung and got an inside for four off Hossein, after six power-play overs produced 42 Smith, who struggled to score freely in 18-ball 15 with two fours, lofted Hossein to deep mid-wicket as his luck ran out to leave the Warriors on 53-1 after seven overs

DJ Bravo replaced Khan, and produced a perfect delivery, which Ayub just managed to edge for four, as the Warriors’ luck continued, but not for long, as Shai Hope (2) tried to go big, and hit Waqar Salamkheil to Walton at long-on, in the ninth over with the score on 62-2.

After 10 overs , the Warriors were 69-2, as the plus-size Azam Khan joined Ayub, and pulled Salamkheil for a brutal boundary

Khan smashed Salamkheil for four before the elegant 21-year-old Ayub was

bowled by the left-arm back-of-the-hand bowler, when one short of what would have been his fourth fifty at 90-3 Shimron Hetmyer’s failures continued when he was run out for a duck to leave the Warriors on 91-4, and the vocal crowd was silenced

Khan deposited Salamkheil for a massive six, and swept him fine for four, before thumping Hinds for four, and the horn-blowing and flag-waving fans were back on their feet, and dancing in the stands as was posted in 15 overs

But with the score on 116-5 in 16 overs, Hinds ended the Azam Khan show when the Pakistani Keeper edged him to Nicholas Pooran behind the stumps

Dwaine Pretorius clobbered Hosein for a mighty six, and hit Ali Khan over the head of the Keeper for a boundary

The USA pacer had the last laugh when he scattered Pretorius’ stumps after he had made 15 at 135-6 in the 18th over Kevlon Anderson joined Romario Shepherd, who fired up the crowd with a couple of fours and a six in 16 from just six balls, before chasing a ball and edging a catch to the Keeper, as Umpire Deighton Butler amusingly signalled a wide. Gudakesh Motie smashed two sixes and a four in the last over, as Ali Khan leaked 18 runs as Motie ended unbeaten on 19 from seven balls

TKR , were without Sunil Narine , who is unwell

TKR batters celebrate their team’s victory at the Providence Stadium last night (Cpl T20 photo)