Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-05-2024

Assessment for CARICOM ferry now in final stages

Guyana

‘Pay your taxes’

Corentyne River Bridge: Guyana, Suriname seek Chinese financing, plans strategic dialogue

The picturesque areas of Little Biaboo and Big Biaboo, situated in the stunning Mahaica Creek,

Assessment for CARICOM ferry now in final stages

— Guyana fully committed to advancing regional trade efforts, President Ali says

THE evaluation of a regional ferry service, which involves the Governments of Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, is currently in its final stages, President Dr. Irfaan Ali said.

During a conversation with reporters at a recent event, the Guyanese Head of State, who also serves as the current chairperson of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), stated that the assessment will be finalised within the next four to five days.

“That assessment now is in the final stages, we are waiting now on the full assessment because there is an assessment now in Guyana, Trinidad and Barbados and then we will see the type of changes required at the port

or whether there is change in the vessel that may be required.”

President Ali made an announcement on Tuesday that the ferry service will be based in Parika, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), an established port.

“Parika stelling as you know evolved into many different things, first it was a passenger stelling then it evolved into a kind of farmers market, a whole sale depo and then with the type of development that is taking place in Essequibo and Bartica it became a very important major transport and logistic hub.”

According to the government, they are fully dedicated to making necessary upgrades to the Parika port.

“Over the years we have built out, we have improved we have strengthen, but I think the time has come for

us to have a more holistic plan of Parika and what the stelling and that whole water front area will entail.”

In January, CARI Cargo Inc., the company responsible for regional ferry service, was established.

The implementation of the ferry service is one of several measures undertaken by CARICOM states to enhance agricultural trade and reduce the region’s substantial food import expenses by 25 per cent within the upcoming year.

The vessel that will be navigating the route is the Galleons Passage, originating from Trinidad and Tobago. The commencement of operations will first take place between Guyana and Trinidad, with intentions to

expand services to Barbados.

President Ali has previously emphasised the existence of ongoing discussions regarding a specialised ferry service with Aruba, aimed at exclusively transporting agricultural produce. Due to Guyana’s strategic geographical position on the periphery of South America, it serves as the most direct and economically efficient pathway for Brazilian exports via the Panama Canal. President Ali envisions Guyana as a prominent transportation hub, positioning the country as the gateway connecting South America to the rest of the world. This strategic move would unlock extensive investment and trade prospects.

Corentyne River Bridge: Guyana, Suriname seek Chinese financing, plans strategic dialogue

By Naomi Parris

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has stated that there are plans for strategic dialogue between the governments of Guyana, Suriname, and China regarding the construction of the Corentyne River Bridge. This bridge aims to establish a crucial connection between Suriname and Guyana.

During an interaction with journalists at a Wednesday event, the Guyanese Head of State mentioned the existence of significant interest, which has not yet been formalised in writing.

“The president of Suriname visited China and as you know we both jointly wrote to the Chinese government on the possibility of concessional financing to have this bridge completed, so we are supposed to have strategic dialogue very soon, so I know that the Chinese government is in talks with both governments.”

He added: “A week ago, I had an engagement with the Chinese ambassador on the very subject so we are hoping that within the coming weeks we can hear from

China on the concessional financing.”

In April, Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi handed over a joint letter, on behalf of himself and President Irfaan Ali, to President Xi Jinping, seeking possible concessional financing for the Corentyne River bridge project.

A proposal for the bridge was first floated in a memorandum between the two Caribbean community (CARICOM) states back in 2020. The aim is to provide a vital link between Surina -

me’s capital, Paramaribo and Guyana’s Georgetown, advancing trade, transportation and promoting tourism.

In March, the two heads of state engaged in discussions pertaining to the financing, technical aspects, and operational modalities of the bridge that will connect the two countries across the Corentyne River.

The leaders issued a joint statement emphasising the significance of establishing a permanent link between the two countries to enhance connectivity in South Amer-

ica.

This, the statement explained, is part of the overall objective of regional integration and trilateral co-operation between Suriname, Guyana and Brazil.

During discussions, President Ali and Santokhi acknowledged the importance of the historical and friendly relations between the peoples and governments of both countries.

It was further recognised that at the current time, both countries stand on the verge of becoming major players

in terms of energy and food security in this region.

“The building of the fixed connection between the two neighboring nations will undoubtedly enhance the flow of people, strengthen agricultural co-operation, facilitate trade and investment and promote tourism, thereby adding in a diversified way to the economic growth that is expected to provide sustainable prosperity to both the Surinamese and Guyanese populations,” the statement read.

The teams were directed

to proceed to the next phase of the project by engaging in discussions regarding pricing, technical aspects, financing, and operational modalities. The shared goal is to optimise affordability and concessionality. It was further outlined that experts of both countries will jointly work towards a political and legal framework, starting with the supervisory tendering process, and the drafting of an agreement regarding the ultimate board that will jointly manage the bridge.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

‘Pay your taxes’

— President Ali calls on corporate bodies to honour ‘national responsibility’

By Naomi Parris

IN a candid address to the members of Guyana’s Private Sector Commission (PSC), President, Dr. Irfaan Ali urged the corporate community to fulfil its ‘national responsibility’ by duly paying their taxes.

The Guyanese Head of State made the appeal on Wednesday during a feature address at the PSC’s 32nd Annual General Meeting held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown.

“The private sector must launch a national campaign on educating [its] membership on the responsibility of paying their taxes. It is not only the government’s responsibility. As responsible corporate citizens, you have to pay taxes,” the Head of State said.

While acknowledging the corporate social responsibility of the private sector, he stressed that policies must align with national development.

“It is good to do social

services, but you can’t rob the treasury of taxes and believe that you’re [sic] small social service will compensate for robbing the treasury of taxes. That is not a government responsibility, that is a national responsibility.”

He further urged private sector members to invest in

traditional sectors such as agriculture and tourism, where incentives can be accessed.

“There are certain sectors that you can get tax writeoffs, that you can get incentives that would give you tax breaks for a few years, but invest in those sectors; invest in agriculture; invest in eco-

tourism.”

According to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), corporation tax is paid at a rate as follows: 45 per cent of chargeable profi ts of a telephone company; 40 per cent of the chargeable profits of a commercial company other than a telephone com-

pany; and 25 per cent of the chargeable profi ts of any other company.

Meanwhile, companies involved in both commercial and non-commercial operations are subject to dual tax rates as outlined below: 25 per cent for the non-commercial activity of the company and 40 per cent for the commercial activity.

Following an amendment to Section Seven of the Corporation Tax Act, private corporate education institutions

and private corporate medical healthcare institutions were exempt from the payment of corporation tax from January 1, 2020.

According to the GRA, in circumstances where the corporation tax paid by a commercial company is less than two percent (2%) of the turnover in the year of earnings, then a tax at the rate of two percent (2%) of the turnover of the commercial company will apply.

Guyana affirms commitment to aviation standards in meeting with ICAO leaders

AT the ongoing Future Aviation Forum (FAF) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Guyana's Minister of Public Works, Deodat Indar, and the Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. (Ret'd) Egbert Field, held a significant meeting with the President and Secretary General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Mr. Salvatore Sciacchitano and Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar, respectively.

The purpose of this engagement was to provide an update on

Guyana's progress towards compliance with ICAO's standards and the necessity for continued collaboration in aviation development.

Minister Indar underscored the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure and ensuring compliance with ICAO standards.

He stressed the paramount importance of maintaining high safety and security standards in the aviation sector, affirming Guyana's readiness to work closely with ICAO to achieve these objectives.

President Sciacchitano and Secretary General Salazar commended Guyana for its persistent efforts to enhance aviation capabilities and reiterated the crucial significance of adhering to ICAO standards for the global aviation community's safety and efficiency.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of mutual cooperation between Guyana and ICAO, highlighting the shared commitment to advancing aviation standards and fostering sustainable development in the aviation sector.

President Ali during his address to members of Guyana’s Private Sector Commission

National Stadium access road usable for T20 World Cup

By Cindy Parkinson

AMID concerns over road accessibility to the Guyana National Stadium for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, has clarified that contrary to rumors, the stadium will be accessible via Massy Road (Red Road), Winsor Estate Road, and Green Field Road.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister Croal emphasised the importance of widening these highways for the country’s overall growth and development. Despite the roads not being completed entirely as anticipated, he assured the public that they will be “usable” in time for the cricket matches.

The housing minister has reported that there are three roads encircling the stadium area, where extensive construction activities are presently taking place. However, “I must say that contrary to what rumours are out there regarding ac-

cessibility or if the public will be able to use it, I am saying that it will be usable in time for cricket, and the contractors are working overtime to make sure that this happens.”

“The Green Field Road leads to the VIP entrance to the stadium; in terms of the Massy Road/ Red Road, and the Winsor Estate Road, I can say that they are close to 60 per cent complete. And by the end of May, which is in time for cricket, it is our intention to have all the roads reach the first stage of having the prime coat level, or a first stage of crush and run, which will make it passable in time for cricket.”

In response, Minister Croal affirmed their capacity to conclude the final bitumen surface, with an expected completion date of June.

“With so many activities that are happening in the vicinity due to the cricket, the completion of the road will be done in full by the end of June. Even though the rain is upon us,

it is not expected that there will be any significant setbacks or interferences that will take the project beyond the timeline that we would have set,” he added.

Minister Croal underscored the importance of enduring temporary discomfort in order to enhance one’s quality of life amidst road construction inconveniences. Additionally, he stated that the advantages of road expansion and improvement significantly surpass any inconvenience.

He noted, “There will

be some inconveniences associated with infrastructural development anywhere in the world, but in the end, hundreds of thousands of people will benefit from the improved and enhanced access to these road networks. These roads that are being down are not just surrounding the cricket stadium but are also intertwined with the development of the overpass for the Demerara Harbour Bridge, which are also main access points that one can use when con-

— Minister Croal assures

pipelines and utility cables, among many other challenges that they were faced with. However, they did not give up. These types of work require skills; it is not just about digging up the sides of the roads, and I must say that we are also concreting the drains, which will also bring ease to the residents as well as the businesses in the area.”

During a recent interview with Bishop Juan Edghill, the Minister of Public Works expressed his satisfaction with certain infrastructure projects, while also urging the public to be understanding of the inconveniences caused by these developments.

According to him,

necting to the East Coast of Demerara.”

Acknowledging the extensive ongoing infrastructural work, Minister Croal commended the contractors for their diligent efforts to ensure timely completion of the task.

“For this project, I must say that I am pleased with the contractors and their dedication towards getting the job done. They have to work in conjunction with the utility companies; with the road widening, they had to also move GWI

“Considering that this area is the hub for several businesses and one of the main access roads to the Providence scheme, we are aware of the vehicular traffic as well as the people that are traversing the roads on a daily basis. The widening of these main access roads may be of inconvenience to many, but we are asking that you have some patience. This will benefit all of us when it is finished.”

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal

‘We are ahead of the demand’ - PM says — Assures enhanced electricity supply for expansion, economic growth

By Shamar Meusa

PRIME MINISTER (PM), Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Wednesday, said that the Guyana Power and Light Inc. is currently ahead of the demand for electricity in the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected system.

The Prime Minister made this disclosure during a meeting of the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Economic Services where he, along with members of his team from GPL, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and the Hinterland Electrification Company Inc., provided updates on energy.

Against this backdrop, Phillips told the committee

that where the country is today, it can safely be said that “we are ahead of the demand” for electricity in the country’s main interconnect-

ed system.

Additionally, he mentioned that the citizens of the nation should be aware that since August 2020, when the

People’s Progressive Party/ Civic came into power, more than 116 megawatts of power have been incorporated into the power grid.

Nevertheless, in anticipation of the projected rise in demand caused by Guyana’s rapid economic expansion, he emphasised the government’s dedication to expanding capacity by the end of 2024 to accommodate this as well.

“And we are cognisant and we are supporting GPL in the forecast that they presented that they will need an additional 30 megawatts of power before the end of 2024… we are in a very good place now and we will continue to work with GPL so the people of Guyana will be in a better place by the end of

2024 and onwards,” he said.

Meanwhile, to add additional power, Head of GPL’s executive management team, Kesh Nandlall, told the committee that, by the end of this month, the powerplant at Columbia, Mahaicony will be commissioned and will add an additional 8.1 megawatts of power and one of the generation units at Kingston will be completed adding another 6.9 megawatts thus taking the overall available generation capacity of the DBIS to 244.4 megawatts.

He added, “By the end of July 2024 another engine will be available of 5.5 megawatts at Kingston which will take us to 229.9. By the end of December 2024 all of our maintenance issues should

be caught up… we have to incrementally bring in these sets to maintain them and they should be available at 245 megawatts.”

Meanwhile, Nandlall indicated that from 2020 to 2024 the price of electricity has remained the same and GPL has not increased same even as the government has indicated that electricity rates for customers will not be increased.

He said, “While fuel prices have been continuously on the increase and we expect it to go [up] to 72 percent, GPL has been absorbing that cost and has not been passing that cost [to customers].”

‘Guyana Wildlife Conservation Commission’ joins global biodiversity efforts

THE Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC) marked International Biodiversity Day by reaffirming its commitment to the global initiative under the theme, “Be part of the plan”.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the GWCMC emphasised the significance of the theme, urging all Guyanese to actively participate in efforts to combat biodiversity loss by supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), also known as The Biodiversity Plan.

The GBF, adopted during the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) after four years of consultation and negotiation, is hailed as a historic framework aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. It sets ambitious goals for achieving a world living in harmony with nature by 2050.

Key components of the framework include four goals for 2050 and 23 targets for 2030. The GWCMC highlighted the comprehensive package of decisions adopted at COP15 to guide and sup-

port the implementation of the GBF.

According to the Biodiversity Plan, the vision for 2050 is a world where biodiversity is valued, conserved, restored, and wisely used, ensuring ecosystem services are maintained, the planet remains healthy, and benefits are delivered to all people.

The mission until 2030, towards achieving the 2050 vision, is to urgently act to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, putting nature on a path to recovery by conserving and sustainably using biodiversity. Additionally, it aims

to ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources while providing necessary means of implementation.

To learn more about The Biodiversity Plan and how to support it, individuals can visit GWCMC's Facebook page or access information at https://www.cbd.int/gbf.

The GWCMC encourages active participation from all sectors of society to ensure Guyana plays its part in global efforts towards biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips (seated third from left) and members of the various teams before the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Economic Services, on Wednesday

False narrative of instability

IN the midst of a global economic landscape often marked by volatility, Guyana emerges as a rare beacon of stability and opportunity for investors.

Halim Khan, Head of the Region Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), has passionately underscored the nation’s remarkable investment climate despite recent claims of geopolitical uncertainty. His assertions, supported by government officials and key industry leaders, reveal a country poised for sustained growth, backed by a robust regulatory environment, a dynamic market and a wealth of natural resources.

The narrative put forth by Dolla Financial Services Limited, citing geopolitical uncertainty as the reason for winding down operations in Guyana, stands in stark contrast to the reality on the ground.

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and Chief Investment Officer Dr. Peter Ramsaroop have highlighted the nation’s booming investment climate. Persaud’s

pointed remarks encourage skeptics to observe the palpable economic activity and speak to local business leaders, revealing a thriving environment far removed from the alleged instability.

Guyana’s appeal as an investment destination is multifaceted. The country’s economy, bolstered by its abundant natural resources and a skilled workforce, offers fertile ground for diverse business ventures.

The discovery and development of vast oil reserves have certainly been a game-changer, positioning Guyana as a dominant force in the regional energy sector. However, the investment opportunities extend well beyond oil and gas, encompassing agriculture, mining, and other critical sectors.

Dr Ramsaroop’s insights at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo illuminate the extensive prospects available across the board.

The nation’s strategic focus on food and energy security, coupled with its proactive stance on climate issues, places it at

the forefront of global discussions and attracts a broad spectrum of investors.

Khan’s advocacy for strategic vision and a collective drive towards prosperity, resonates strongly. The resilience and adaptability of Guyana’s economy provide a robust foundation for businesses to flourish.

The nation’s regulatory environment, which Khan praises, is designed to support and sustain business growth, further enhancing its attractiveness to foreign and local investors alike.

It is essential to scrutinise the motivations behind the claims of geopolitical uncertainty. While businesses may face challenges and occasionally underperform, attributing these setbacks to the broader geopolitical climate can be misleading. Guyana’s consistent growth trajectory and the substantial investments from both local and foreign entities contradict the narrative of instability.

Government and private sector leaders remain committed to fostering an environment conducive to investment

and growth. Their proactive measures and transparent communication efforts are crucial in maintaining investor confidence and debunking unfounded claims. Guyana stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision, resilience, and strategic planning. The nation’s leadership and private sector advocates like Khan are pivotal in steering Guyana towards a future of prosperity and stability. Investors should look beyond the noise of geopolitical speculation and focus on the tangible opportunities that Guyana offers.

As we navigate an era of global economic shifts, Guyana’s example underscores the importance of seizing opportunities amidst uncertainty. By harnessing collective potential and driving forward with strategic investments, Guyana not only promises growth for its own people but also positions itself as an indispensable player on the global stage.

Advancing agriculture: Shade houses in Guyana

Dear Editor,

Under the visionary leadership of Agriculture

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Guyana’s agricultural sector has seen significant advancements, particularly through the introduction and expansion of shade houses for farmers. This innovative approach marks a substantial shift towards modernising agriculture, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Shade houses, designed to create controlled growing environments, protect crops from harsh weather conditions and pests, thus boosting productivity and crop quality. This initiative has enabled farmers to achieve higher yields and maintain consistent production regardless of seasonal fluctuations.

One of the most significant impacts of shade houses is the extension of growing seasons, allowing farmers to produce a variety of crops year-round. This has not only increased the availability of fresh produce but has also enhanced the livelihoods of farmers by providing continuous income streams. The controlled environment of shade houses reduces the incidence of pests and diseases, ensuring healthier crops and

reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Minister Mustapha and President Ali have prioritised resource efficiency through the shade house initiative. These structures optimise the use of water and fertilisers, minimising waste and lowering production costs. This focus on efficiency aligns with global trends towards sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

To ensure the success of this initiative, the government has invested in extensive training and support programmes for farmers. Workshops, technical assistance, and collaborations with international agricultural experts have been pivotal in equipping farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to maximise the benefits of shade houses.

The strides made by Minister Mustapha and

positions Guyana as a leader in innovative and sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

President Ali in promoting shade houses exemplify their commitment to transforming Guyana’s agriculture. This initiative not only enhances food security and economic resilience, but also

Yours sincerely, Fawaz Anthony Harry

Gov’t pushes forward with Mon Repos market renovation despite setbacks

— Western Wing to be completed in four months

By Cindy Parkinson

DESPITE facing setbacks, the government of Guyana is working diligently to ensure the completion of the Mon Repos Market on the East Coast of Demerara in phases. Minister of Local Government, Anand Persaud, is spearheading the effort, following his recent engagement with vendors at the Lusignan Community Centre.

Minister Persaud visited the market on Wednesday to designate temporary stalls for vendors currently operating on the western side of the building. He acknowledged that the temporary facilities would be less comfortable than the original stalls but assured the vendors that the refurbishment and restoration of the western wing would be completed in four months.

“I met with most of the vendors on Monday and explained that the western side of Mon Repos Market will be rebuilt. Today, I identified the stalls, and I want to reit-

erate that this is just a temporary holding area for them until the rehabilitation is completed in four months,”

Minister Persaud stated. The contractual agreement for the renovation is three months, but an additional month has been considered due to the rainy season. The minister has instructed the contractor to work some night hours to ensure the project is completed

on time.

Minister Persaud emphasised the importance of cooperation among vendors, highlighting that some had secured multiple stalls, which will no longer be permitted. "The issue was raised where some persons were given three or four stalls. The market is not a part of real estate. In this temporary holding position, you will not be able to get the multiple

stalls you had in the original market, and most of you agreed to this," he said.

Despite the government's agreement with the vendors stipulating one temporary space per vendor, some had obtained more than one stall.

Minister Persaud addressed this, ensuring the issue would be rectified and reiterating that each vendor would only be granted one stall.

He also issued a strong warning to the market community and NDC officials for their lack of vigilance in preventing these issues. "If you all were more diligent, many of these issues we would not have had," he stated.

After several hours of discussions, Minister Persaud resolved the vendors' issues and allocated each vendor to their designated stall. The Guyana Chronicle

spoke with several market vendors, some of whom expressed satisfaction with the temporary accommodations, while others were dissatisfied.

Shanti, a clothes vendor, noted that although her new location is smaller than her previous stall, she understands the need for compromise. "All of us are happy for the extension of the western side of our market, but we also know that it will be a lot of inconvenience for us to move to a smaller location. Sometimes in life, we have to take some squeeze before we get better," she said.

Another vendor, who requested anonymity, expressed concerns about the space allocated for his produce but acknowledged the need to comply with the single-stall rule until the renovations are complete.

The government remains committed to completing the market renovations and ensuring all vendors benefit from the improved facilities once the project is finished.

PNC-R’s internal struggles deepen

— Members at odds over short, overdue congress notice

UNCERTAINTY has been the order of the day in the People’s National Congress-Reform’s (PNC-R) camp, where contentions are surfacing over the short notice provided to members for the party’s long overdue congress.

While a date for the long overdue congress of the People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R) has finally been set, members within the party are seemingly at loggerheads since many are deeming the timing as “unreasonable” while others are in full support of it.

then you have to be in a state of readiness. That’s how politics goes.”

He went on to say: “If you are saying now, that this is too short [well] then you weren’t prepared.”

However, these sentiments are in stark contrast to comments by PNC-R Executive Member, Gary Best, who has deemed the timing for congress as “unreasonable” and noted that he was not even present when the date was decided.

reasonable in that date. I think and consider the one month to be unreasonable. That’s my view.”

Known member of the PNC-R, James Bond, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle has thrown his support behind the dates set as he explained that it was supposed to be held since last year. When asked by this publication about his thoughts on some of his fellow party members being displeased with the dates, he said that one always has to be prepared, especially in the political arena.

Bond said: “If you are planning on running...

Best, in a social media programme, last week, said: “Usually the timeline for the congress should be one that is favourable. There’s nothing in the constitution as to when the congress should be held after an announcement, how long.... I expect the leadership to be

He later stated: “More time [is] needed to prepare for a proper Congress because you get nothing out of Congress that is seemingly disorganised, our [persons] are not able to get all the information and all the preparation done on time, and the date of this Congress, coming after the CEC meeting seems to suggest that it’s coming in a hurry, it’s coming too quickly, and that there isn’t sufficient time to properly prepare for this Congress.”

The PNC-R Leader, Aubrey Norton, last week noted that the Central Executive Committee of the PNC-R decided at its meeting the previous

Wednesday that the party’s overdue Congress will be held over three days from Friday, 28th June to Sunday, 30th June 2024.

The theme for the Congress will be: “Forming the next government: building a just, inclusive and prosperous society for all.”

Norton became leader in the party’s 2021 congress, where he was challenged for the post by Joseph Harmon and Richard Van West Charles. Forde had openly supported Harmon at the time.

Notably, last year, there were clear efforts by senior members of the party to displace Leader of the Opposition, Norton.

Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Anand Persaud, with vendors of the Mon Repos Market (Cindy Parkinson Photos)

Minister Persaud allotted temporary stalls to vendors at Mon Repos Market

Known PNC-R Member, James Bond PNC-R Executive Member, Gary Best

Facts have scientific existence; truth is interpretative

TRUTHS and facts cannot meet. They will never be such a confluence. They are two different constructs that have different qualities, but the reason why they cannot interface is because science is concrete and facts reside in science. The truths reside in the minds of people and have no bearing to reality.

We can come up with a billion truths that are wishywashy nonsense. The truth is Israel is fighting for its existence? Is that a truth?

The Palestinian historians and intellectuals would say that Israel has existence and wants to broaden that existence and the truth is Israel wants Palestinian lands to make Israel bigger. Which one is the truth?

Facts are of a different nature. The fact is Israel has soldiers in lands that the world does not recognise as belonging to Israel. That is a fact that is not subject to different interpretation because Israel itself occupies those lands, recognises that it occupies them but says it has to control them because those lands are used to attack Israel. So all and sundry agree

with the fact that the lands in question do not belong to Israel, but Israel says even though they do not belong to Israel, it has to control them because such control ensures the safety of Israel. Is it the truth that Ukraine was planning to undermine Russia’s sovereignty through secret NATO collaboration?

Ukraine says that is nonsense. Russia says it is the truth. Separate from what the truth is, there is the fact that Russia invaded Ukraine. You can debate the truth of why Russia invaded. But there is the scientific fact of invasion.

Let’s apply the juxtaposition of facts and truths to Guyana. Is it the truth that the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is an independent, neutral actor in Guyanese politics? For many civil society groups and the Stabroek News it is. But government ministers say the GHRA is anti-government. This columnist holds that view too. So what is the truth?

Let’s go to facts. The attempts to rig the March 2020 election consisted of five months of conspiracies which to enumerate here

would take volumes. One does not know where to start. In March, there were graphic machinations. And in April too, and in May too, and in June too and in July too. The fact is - there are no press releases or video evidence of GHRA’s denunciations for those five months. Facts have scientific life. Once in black and white, facts cannot be erased. Where are the press releases from the GHRA in black and white?

Let’s move on to fact two. Ms. Vanda Radzik-Veira penned a statement that has scientific life. It is black and white in the Stabroek News of November 13, 2022. She said that the Guyana Government must immediately

cease oil production. There is another scientific fact about Ms. Radzik-Veira. She is in a video tape that has scientific life in which she refuses to give her personal position, her personal belief on the oil industry. That is a fact.

Let’s go to fact three. Is it the truth that Stabroek News is an impartial media house? Supporters would say yes. Others like this columnist and the PPP leadership would say it is shamelessly anti-government. Who is right and who is wrong. Let’s look at facts. The Guyana Chronicle and the Guyana Times do not carry anti-government columnists.

The Kaieteur News does not carry pro-government

columnists. The Stabroek News does not feature pro-government columnists.

“In The Diaspora” has not carried one article in its entire existence that presents a case for the government being a democratic administration.

Why then in some sections of this country, an analysis that is in favour of democratic governance is neatly juxtaposed against neutral commentary when the facts do not support such neutrality? Facts cannot be wished away because they have permanent scientific life. And the facts are there to be gathered as when a fisherman pulls in his net and looks at his catch.

The truths may be moun-

tainous but they remain elusive about who is anti-government and who is impartial. The facts are equally mountainous. The difference is science. Here is my problem. I support Irfaan Ali as a democratic president. I have not hidden that since August 2020. I am not going to obfuscate that position of mine with fancy grammar that makes me appear as neutral.

The Stabroek News, the GHRA, Red Thread, Demerara Waves among others are anti-government and there are facts that are out there to be grasped about such a mentality. But do not deceive innocent minds with labyrinthine words to appear neutral. There is nothing wrong in being anti-government and pro-government. But the anti-government folks see pro-government people as inferior thinkers.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

State files appeal in GTU strike case

THE Government of Guyana (GOG), on Wednesday, moved to the Court of Appeal seeking to overturn the controversial ruling favouring the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) by High Court Judge, Sandil Kissoon.

Minister of Legal Af-

fairs and Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall, S.C., during his programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday, disclosed that after waiting for a month, copies of 134-page ruling delivered by Justice Kissoon was finally handed over.

“The way is now abso-

lutely clear for us to proceed with the appeal and the application for a stay of execution,” Nandlall said. In his ruling on April 19, Justice Kissoon held that the teachers’ strike was legitimate since collective bargaining between

Continued on page 9

‘GTU has been unmasked’ —

MINISTER of Legal Affairs and Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall has said that the Guyana Teachers’ Union’s recent actions have left it unmasked and show that it is not serious about resolving the impasse.

The minister made those remarks during a recorded interview where he spoke on the ongoing issue between the Education Ministry and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) where the union sprung even more demands on the ministry insisting that they must be met before teachers return to schools.

Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General,

Anil Nandlall

AG says

objections.

During a substantial portion of that timeframe, he explained that it was the COVID period, characterised by a nearly complete shutdown of the economy and closure of schools. However, teachers at that time not only maintained their salaries but also enjoyed a wide range of benefits.

from any form of discrimination.

As such he said, “To single out teachers as the only class of public sector employees and to confer upon them salary and wage increases to the exclusion of other public servants and other public sector employees would be discrimination against those employees and discrimination in favour of the teachers. That is completely unconstitutional and untenable.”

In relation to this, the attorney general pointed out that the years that the Union has been mentioning have already elapsed, and national budgets have been allocated without any provision for retroactive funds in the approved 2024 budget.

“I believe that the position of the GTU has now been unmasked by the current demand… the GTU knows fully well that the government cannot go back and negotiate 2019 to 2023 for many reasons, all of which have been articulated by the government publicly,” he said.

Throughout those years, Nandlall mentioned that the government has implemented salary increases for employees in the public sector, including teachers, who have welcomed this without any

“They received a whole host of benefits, all of which they accepted. Not once raising an objection to say well what about our multiyear, they accepted,” he added.

Additionally, the minister in charge of legal affairs emphasised the government’s responsibility to guarantee equality of treatment, citing Article 49 of the constitution which safeguards all citizens

State files appeal in GTU strike...

the Ministry of Education and the union had not been properly undertaken.

Nandlall had previously voiced serious worries about the legal validity of the ruling and expressed concerns about the potential consequences it could have on future labour relations.

He vehemently labelled the decision as “bad in law,” stressing its profound impact on the nation’s educational landscape and broader labour dynamics.

Earlier this month, the GTU resumed its call for industrial action. However, the Government of Guyana reaffirmed its commitment and said that it is ready to continue engagement with the union on the MultiYear Agreement from 2024 onwards.

This was according to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Shannielle Hoosein-Outar, who, in correspondence to the President of the Union, Mark Lyte, said that the ministry was surprised at the proposed continuation of industrial action.

In March, the GTU and the Education Ministry met to continue the collective bargaining process, which was halted due to a strike in February.

During the meeting,

the ministry supported the government’s stance that talks about salary increases should only begin in 2024 and beyond.

The Permanent Secretary explained that increases for the prior years would have financial implications and the 2024 budget does not have the fiscal space to facilitate the retroactive payment of salaries for teachers during the period of 2019 to 2023.

As such, the Union representatives were asked to submit a proposal to the ministry that would capture their request for a multi-year agreement commencing 2024.

That meeting reached an impasse as GTU indicated that they were only interested in discussing salaries between the 2019 to 2023 period. The representatives of the Union further abandoned the process and walked out of the meeting.

The strike was finally ended on March 4, 2024, through court-mediated negotiations led by Senior Counselors Edward Luckhoo and Robin Stoby.

Despite the Ministry of Education meeting over half of the 41 proposals made by the GTU for improved working conditions within just three years, the teachers still went on

strike.

Government officials had also challenged the union’s claims by highlighting that discussions were ongoing to satisfy the other requests. Since the requirements for conducting a strike were not satisfied, the government had declared that the strike action was illegal.

The GTU’s action against the government, with the GTUC joining as an intervener, focused on the legality of teachers being able to refuse work while still receiving pay as a means of protest or negotiation.

In his decision, the judge stated that there was evidence to show that the government failed to engage the union in collective bargaining, unilaterally forced salary hikes on teachers, and snubbed or rebuffed the union’s “every attempt” to negotiate collectively, as envisaged by Article 147 (3) of the Guyana Constitution, which states that neither an employer nor a trade union shall be denied the right to enter into collective agreements.

The court directed the government to compensate the GTU with $500,000 in expenses and the GTUC with $750,000 in expenses.

Furthermore, he pointed out that the matter of affordability comes into consideration. Given that the government is responsible for managing the state’s finances, there are always other competing demands or requests for funding from the treasury.

“The government must be entitled to say that we cannot afford this. Or if we do then we have to stop some national project. We have to stop the Demerara Harbour Bridge. We have to stop the east bank highway. We have to stop the gas-to-shore project and I can point to so many other things. Something must give for there to be financial readjustments or resources to make available the money and employers in any industrial disputes must be entitled to put forward the financial affordability when the question of salary increases arise,” the Attorney General posited.

Nonetheless, he mentioned that the union’s persistent requests to address those previous years and now even proposing a temporary 20 percent raise for all teachers to resume their duties have exposed the union’s lack of commitment to resolving the deadlock.

He said, “Now to me the mask has come off. This union has illustrated even to those who are in support of it that they’re not serious about conciliation; they’re not serious about resolving any impasse. This industrial action is not a bonafide one. It is influenced by other considerations.”

Furthermore, Nandlall emphasised that this demand clearly indicates that the teachers are being manipulated as a means to achieve a different goal.

From page 8

Venezuelans among four arrested in cocaine ‘busts’

THE Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) has detained four people, three of whom are citizens of Venezuela, in connection with two different cocaine busts over the course of the last weekend, as part of a major crackdown on drug trafficking.

On Sunday, May 19, 2024, CANU officers, acting on a tip-off, conducted an operation in the Cummings Lodge area of Greater Georgetown.

During this operation, they intercepted three individuals—Guyanese national,

Gavin Adams, 54, and Venezuelan nationals Jose Gregorio Gomez, 35, and Kevin De Jesus Figueira, 22. A search of the suspects

revealed a black haversack containing three brick-like parcels filled with a whitish substance. Tests confirmed the substance was cocaine,

weighing a total of 3.348 kilogrammes.

The following day, on Monday, May 20, 2024, CANU officers extended their operation to the Grant Woodland area of the Lower Pomeroon River.

There, they searched the residence of Gavin Adams, which led to the discovery of five brick-like parcels containing a whitish powdery substance.

Oritz Sergio Rafael, a 35-year-old Venezuelan na-

tional, was arrested at the scene. The substance was tested and confirmed to be cocaine, weighing approximately 5.600 kilogrammes.

All suspects were escorted to CANU headquarters, along with the confiscated narcotics. The total seizure from both operations amounts to nearly nine kilogrammes of cocaine.

CANU has stated that investigations are ongoing.

These arrests highlight the continued efforts by Guyanese authorities to combat drug trafficking within the region, particularly since Guyana remains a key transit country for the cocaine trade.

Shooting incident over bicycle theft under investigation

DETECTIVES from Regional Division 4A (Georgetown) are investigating a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday afternoon, involving a 42-year-old man, Carl Cato, from Vryheid's Lust, East Coast Demerara.

Cato sustained a gunshot wound to his left foot, reportedly inflicted by a 28-year-old security guard employed by Sheriff Security Services.

The incident took place at approximately 2:50 PM on Carmichael Street, Georgetown.

According to initial inquiries, Cato was riding a bicycle when he was confronted by the security guard, who accused him of stealing the bicycle.

The security guard claimed that the bicycle belonged to another employee of Sheriff Security Services and had been stolen earlier.

The confrontation escalated into a physical altercation, during which Cato allegedly attempted to disarm the security guard. During the struggle, the firearm discharged, striking Cato in the left leg.

Police responded to the scene and transported Cato to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he is currently in stable condition.

The security guard was arrested, and the firearm, along with one spent shell, was seized and lodged as evidence. The bicycle in question was also taken into custody.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Gavin Adams Jose Gregorio Gomez Kevin De Jesus Figueira Oritz Sergio Rafael

Policy Forum Guyana’s ‘1.5 Influencer Kit’ to foster environmental stewardship among youths — June 1 launch to promote healthier lifestyles

By Telesha Ramnarine

In observance of World Environmental Day, Policy Forum Guyana (PFG) will be launching the ‘1.5 Influencer Kit’ on June 1, as a means of promoting a more sustainable and healthier lifestyle.

Consequently, PFG has made contact with 10 prominent influencers nationwide, seeking their assistance in promoting the kit across their respective platforms.

Project Coordinator Venita Davis told Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday that this kit is similar to the one they developed last year August called the ‘1.5 Crew Training Kit’ which includes a comprehensive manual and practical tools such as locally made board games, videos and power point presentations to foster environmental awareness and action among students.

Davis developed the two board games in the kit called Earth Helper and Eco-Snake and Ladder. Explaining what they are like, she said: “It’s really to get the players to understand how negative choices can impact their

garden and they get to go up the ladder.”

environment. For example, they have not turned off the lights so they get eaten by the snake and have to go down, or they have planted trees and started a kitchen

The initiative all started when the head prefect at St. Roses High reached out to PFG and said the school was interested in starting an environmental club. PFG developed the kit and ‘Roses’ was the first school to have benefitted from it. “We went to schools that didn’t have an

active environmental club.

Students had fun playing the games and they found it very easy to use.”

Recognising that Climate Change poses a dire threat, exacerbated by human activities; jeopardising vital resources like food and clean water, Davis said from November to April 2024, PFG visited schools across various regions, reaching approximately 700 students.

Schools visited included St. Joseph’s High, St. Rose’s High, Santa Rosa Secondary, Tapakuma Lake Primary, West Demerara Secondary, Marian Academy, C-Field Primary, Queen’s College, Graham’s Hall Primary, Eccles Primary, and others, spanning Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five and 10.

According to Davis, any school wishing to be in possession of the kit can reach out to PFG. Once it’s a school, it will be given for free.

“The objectives of the

initiative are multi-faceted, aiming to raise awareness, promote behavioral change, engage communities, instill stewardship values, and create long-term impacts among students, empowering them to champion environmental conservation,” Davis stated.

“The kit embodies a tangible step towards a sustainable future, aligning with the 1.5 Degrees Celsius Lifestyle and emphasising youth empowerment. Recognising the need for substantial change, Policy Forum Guyana developed the kit to catalyze reforms in government policies, economic systems, and societal norms,” she continued.

Just recently, the ‘1.5 Crew Training Kit’ initiative gained significant support with major environmental organisation Recover Guyana purchasing three kits for their SHOUT competition slated for June 5.

Project Coordinator Venita Davis

The Eco-Snake and Ladder game that was developed

‘Malicious, unjustified, and baseless’ — Nandlall rejects opposition claims of politicising

GDF

— Highlights politicisation of force during PNC government’s 28-year rule

MINISTER of Legal Affairs and Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall, S.C., has strongly refuted allegations from the opposition regarding the politicisation of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Speaking during his weekly programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday, Nandlall addressed claims made by People’s National Congress-led A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change member of parliament, Amanza Walton-Desir, describing her comments as “malicious, unjustified, and baseless.”

The issue started during the parliamentary debate on the Defence Amendment Bill, a straightforward legislation aimed at changing the title of the Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force to Chief of Defence Staff.

Despite the bill’s simplicity and bipartisan support, Walton-Desir’s remarks ignited a heated response from the government.

Walton-Desir accused President Dr. Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration of attempting to politicise and control the GDF, citing an incident where President Ali shared his birthday cake with senior military officers.

“The Honourable Member using an incident which she made reference to of the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, sharing his birthday cake with leading members of the army. And the photographs that she’s referring to apparently showed the president cutting the cake and offering it to the various officers of the army in the command structure, senior officers including the Chief of Staff.

“The Honourable Member interpreted that to be politicisation of the Guyana Defence Force, and she launched a tirade lasting several minutes accusing our government of attempting to politicise and control the army, accusing our government of attempting to undermine the independence of the army of our men and women in uniform,” he said.

Nandlall, who also serves as the Secretary of the Defence Board, defended the President’s actions, explaining that it is customary for the Commander-in-Chief to engage in social interactions with military officers.

“I don’t see anything wrong with the commander-in-chief of the armed forces sharing a birthday cake with members of the force,” he said, adding that such events do not undermine the GDF’s independence or professionalism.

Drawing on historical precedents, Nandlall highlighted that social engagements between military leaders and political figures are not uncommon and have been part of Guyana’s tradition since its independence.

“Historically, every commander of the armed forces

of our country beginning with Forbes Burnham, every commander has had engagements of an open nature, of a celebratory nature, of merriment, of a social nature with the Guyana Defense Force. They have had dinners, they have had lunches, they have had breakfasts, they have had cocktails. They have had parties,” Nandlall said.

He compared these interactions to those of other nations, such as the United States, where presidents frequently socialise with troops without raising concerns about politicisation.

Nandlall used the opportunity to highlight what he described as the high professionalism and morale within the GDF under the current administration.

“There is no time in our country’s history that a Guyana Defence Force is as professional as it currently is. There is no point in time in our country’s history when the Guyana Police Force has had more resources than it currently [has],” he asserted.

In a broader historical context, Nandlall accused the PNC of historically politicising the armed forces, particularly during their 28 years of rule characterised by rigged elections. He detailed the manipulation tactics used by

the PNC, such as overseas voting fraud during the 1968 elections, to underscore the opposition’s own questionable history with the GDF.

Nandlall reaffirmed the GDF’s primary mandate to defend Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, pledging allegiance to the Constitution rather than any political entity.

“The Guyana Defence Force ought to be an independent institution, whose primary mandate is to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state of Guyana. That is its primary mandate and, in so doing, must swear allegiance to the Constitution of Guyana and must bear loyalty to the

Constitution of Guyana. In bearing loyalty and pledging allegiance to the Constitution of Guyana, that defence force must not necessarily pledge allegiance to the government of the day,” he said.

As such, Nandlall reiterated that the PPP/C government respects this principle and works to maintain the GDF’s “independence and professionalism”.

The Defence Amendment Bill, which aimed to standardise the title of the GDF’s head, was passed without controversy regarding its content, marking a legislative alignment with global military norms.

The title of Chief-of-Staff has been used for decades to denote the head of the army.

Brigadier Omar Khan was appointed as the GDF Chiefof-Staff by President Ali last year, a role he combines with leading the National Intelligence and Security Agency (N.I.S.A).

This move to retitle the army head as Chief of Defence is part of the government’s vision for institutional restructuring within the GDF. It reflects the PPP government’s modernisation effort to enhance the force’s alignment with global military standards and practices.

Labour Ministry refutes GTU’s claims of stalemate in teachers’ pay talks

THE Ministry of Labour has issued a statement correcting what it calls “inaccurate assertions” made by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) President, Dr. Mark Lyte, as reported by Stabroek News on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, under the headline “Stalemate continues in teachers’ pay talks.” Dr. Lyte claimed that the GTU was never asked to present its position during the negotiations.

“It is NOT true that the GTU was never asked to put its position,” the Ministry stated. According to the Ministry, the GTU was given multiple opportunities to present its terms and conditions for resumption from the very start of the meeting on Monday, May 13, 2024. The initial draft of the terms

of resumption was jointly drafted by the GTU and the Ministry of Labour.

The proposed terms included: An end to the strike and full resumption of work by all teachers within 72 hours; No victimisation by either party, and No break in service and the status quo ante shall prevail.

Following the full resumption of work by all teachers, conciliation will commence on the timeframe of the proposal submitted by the GTU.

The Ministry highlighted that the Chief Labour Officer suggested Terms 1 (with resumption within 48 hours instead of 72), 2, and 3, while the GTU presented Term 4. The GTU agreed to present these terms to the Ministry of Education (MoE), which then

requested time to consider them, leading to a reconvening later that day at 3:00 pm.

During the subsequent meeting, the MoE and GTU agreed on terms 2 and 3, and amended term 1 to 48 hours instead of 72. However, there was no agreement on term 4,

and the MoE presented three alternative options and an additional term: “The above terms shall be subject to the determination of proceedings before the Court by courts of competent jurisdiction.”

The meeting concluded with an agreement that

both parties would consider various alternatives for term 4 and that the GTU would reconsider the new term proposed by the MoE.

The next day, May 14, 2024, after hours of discussion, the GTU presented a document dated May 13, 2024, which included several terms, some of which had already been agreed upon.

The Ministry emphasised that at all times, both the GTU and MoE were allowed to present their positions. The timing of the GTU’s document presentation, which included agreed-upon terms and new terms, was entirely their decision and not due to a lack of opportunity.

The Ministry underscored the need for a state of normalcy before conciliation could commence, in line with the

1990 Avoidance and Settlement of Disputes Agreement, which stipulates that there should be no strike or stoppage of work during dispute resolution.

The Ministry expressed its bewilderment and sadness over the assertions made by the GTU President, which it described as a deviation from the truth. Nevertheless, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to guiding both the GTU and the MoE towards a solution consistent with long-standing industrial relations principles and the 1990 Agreement.

In closing, the Ministry reiterated its dedication to facilitating a resolution that upholds the integrity of the negotiation process and ensures the welfare of teachers and students alike.

Opposition Member of Parliament, Amanza Walton-Desir

New book highlights wildlife, community conservation efforts in Rupununi

IN celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity, the eagerly awaited book, ‘Wildlife and People in the Rupununi’ – A Comprehensive Assessment based on Science and Local Knowledge, has been officially published online.

This publication, which chronicles the extensive technical and scientific work of the Sustainable Wildlife Management (SWM) Programme in Guyana’s Region 9 from 2018 to 2023, is a testament to the region's rich biodiversity and the collaborative efforts in wildlife conservation.

The book, funded by the European Union, features engaging articles on the status of wildlife populations, local uses of wildlife, human-wildlife coexistence, and conservation initiatives in the Rupununi. It is the result of a collaborative effort led by community members, supported by local civil society organisations, the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC), and the National Fisheries Department.

A first copy of the book was presented to Guyana's Prime Minister, Mark Phillips, by René

van Nes, the EU ambassador to Guyana, during the Europe Day celebration in Georgetown on May 9. “We have extended this programme because it is very successful,” said Van Nes. “It’s one of my favourites. I’m pleased to present one of the very first copies of this beautiful book to the Prime Minister.”

Spanning almost 300 pages and featuring over 100 professional photographs, the publication presents a detailed reference for wildlife population assessments and explores the dynamics of human-wildlife coexis -

tence.

One of the book’s central themes is empowering local communities to become stewards of conservation, highlighting exemplary initiatives like the management of river turtles in the Yupukari community. This model of community-led management aims to preserve species while allowing for sustainable use.

The book also addresses conflicts between people, livestock, and carnivores, contributing valuable information to GWCMC’s efforts in conflict mitigation. A total of 100 printed copies are

being distributed to key stakeholders involved in the SWM Programme, including authors and local partners.

The Rupununi region, known as the ‘Land of Giants’ due to its large-bodied neotropical species such as jaguars, giant anteaters, and giant river turtles, is one of the most biodiverse areas in Guyana.

The SWM Programme, which funds and coordinates the project, is a major international initiative aimed at improving the conservation and sustainable use of wildlife in various ecosystems. This initiative is supported by

a consortium of partners, including the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).

Through this comprehensive assessment and the active involvement of local communities, ‘Wildlife and People in the Rupununi’ underscores the critical importance of sustainable wildlife management and the collective efforts required to protect Guyana’s natural heritage.

GNBS warns against use of inaccurate blue dial scales in retail markets

— 405 shops and 1230 stalls inspected

CURRENTLY, inspectors from the Legal Metrology Department of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) are in the process of conducting surveillance exercises at shops and markets throughout the country.

The primary objective of these exercises is to verify the compliance of measuring instruments utilised in retail trade. To this point, a total of 160 unapproved and unverified instruments have been seized and confiscated during the exercises.

From early May Inspectors have been conducting unscheduled surveillance visits to markets in the city and its surrounding areas, which encompassed Stabroek, Bourda, Kitty, Ruimveldt, Plaisance, and Mon Repos. Visits to markets and shops in the other regions were initiated in April, promptly following the verification (stamping) period. Thus far, 405 shops and 1230 stalls have been surveyed nationwide. The GNBS continues to warn vendors and shop-

trade as their internal parts cannot withstand the rigors of frequent use. As a result, these domestic scales easily become inaccurate, robbing consumers and even users themselves.

Alternatively, the GNBS recommends that vendors and shopkeepers use verified electronic scales, equal Arm (Red scales) and platform scales to weigh goods offered for sale. To ensure measuring instruments are verified, consumers are urged to check for the GNBS approved seal which should be affixed to

the measuring instrument. For the remainder of the first half of the year, GNBS Inspectors will continue surveillance exercises at shops and markets across the country to remove all unapproved and unverified measuring instruments from retail trade to protect consumers. To avoid seizure, unverified measuring instruments can still be submitted by users to the GNBS Head office, Sophia or to any of its Branch Offices across the country for verification.

Unapproved domestic dial scales seized

A first copy of the book was presented to Guyana's Prime Minister, Mark Phillips, by René van Nes, the EU ambassador to Guyana, during the Europe Day celebration in Georgetown on May 9, 2024

Rajasthan break RCB hearts

(ESPNCRICINFO) -

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) came into the IPL 2024 Eliminator with six successive wins behind them, and Rajasthan Royals (RR) with five successive winless games. But there really is no such thing as momentum in sport, and certainly not in a sport as fickle as T20.

Royals won an important toss, and their bowlers delivered a superb performance to restrict RCB to 172 at a venue where dew makes chasing significantly easier than setting targets.

It was a game of two halves, as RR got over the line with an over to spare despite a number of nervy moments in their chase.

It was also a game of two ends. One square boundary in Ahmedabad was significantly longer than the other, and the RR bowlers used this asymmetry brilliantly. RCB scored 51 for 6 in their odd-numbered overs, when the longer boundary was to the leg side for the right-hand batter, and 121 for 2 from the other end.

It wasn’t a coincidence that Trent Boult, R Ashwin and Avesh Khan, RR’s best bowlers on the night, did the bulk of their bowling from the favourable end.

The imbalance existed even when RR batted: 111 for 1 in ten overs from one end, and 63 for 5 in

nine overs from the other. It helped RR that they had right-left pairs occupying the crease for longer than RCB did, but not to a massive extent.

In the end, it came down to the total RCB put on the board. Faf du Plessis, their captain, admitted that they were about 20 runs short. He felt it was a 180 pitch when RCB batted, and a significantly higher-scoring one, thanks to the dew, when RR chased.

RR are now through to Qualifier 2 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Chennai on Friday. For RCB, this is another trophyless season but one that will be remembered fondly for many years to come.

The game of two ends began early. Boult swung the new ball in an opening spell of three overs, and was inch-perfect with his

lines and lengths: no room for the batters to free their arms, and no slot balls or long-hops. He conceded just six runs and two legbyes in those three overs, and had du Plessis caught at deep midwicket to end an opening stand of 37.

At the other end, though, RCB clattered 42 in three overs. Virat Kohli, using his feet routinely to step out or make room, looked ominous while rushing to 30 off 19 by the end of the powerplay.

Chahal gets Kohli, Ashwin applies the squeeze Boult gave way to Ashwin from the end with the long leg-side boundary (for the right-hand batter), and that end continued to be hard to score off.

Ashwin bowled beautifully, bowling at high pace, either into the pitch or right up at the batters’ feet, offering no room, and

primarily using his carrom and reverse-carrom variations against RCB’s righthand batters.

But he was also aided by the end he bowled from, and the fact that his first two overs came soon after RCB had lost big wickets. He bowled the seventh over soon after Boult had taken out du Plessis, and the ninth immediately after Kohli had fallen to Yuzvendra Chahal. Kohli’s slog-sweep has been one of the stories of IPL 2024. The shot, brought out of cold storage after many years, has allowed Kohli to overturn a long-standing issue of slow scoring against spin, and given him an extra gear through the middle overs. On this day, though, he was out to his first slog-sweep, caught on the midwicket boundary.

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

GULFSTREAM PARK

Race 1 Popstyle

Race 2 El Rojo Vivo

Race 3 Truth And Honesty

Race 4 Jonas’ Dream

Race 5 Motivo

Race 6 One Sharp Cookie

Race 7 Admiral Hopper

SOUTH AFRICA

RACING TIPS

TURFFONTEIN

08:20 hrs Volare E Mambo

08:55 hrs Littlemarysunshine

09:30 hrs Silent War

10:05 hrs Moonshiningthrough

10:45 hrs Lovegrass

IRISH RACING TIPS

LIMERICK

12:25 hrs Prince Of Air

12:55 hrs Hurricane Georgie

13:25 hrs Maidenstreetprince 13:55 hrs Kilmacurkin

14:25 hrs What Path

15:00 hrs Kilmurry

15:30 hrs Invictus Machin

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

CATTERICK

09:10 hrs Harswell Dandy

09:40 hrs Resilience

10:10 hrs See The Green

10:40 hrs Macarone

11:10 hrs White Umbrella

11:40 hrs Lokana 12:15 hrs Without Delay 12:50 hrs Langholm

CITY 12:10 hrs Wannabe Brave 12:42 hrs Historic City 13:17 hrs Fidelius 13:47 hrs Dark Side Prince 14:17 hrs All In The Hips

First Lady treats Hope Children’s Home to World T20 trophy interaction

FIRST Lady Arya Ali brought beaming smiles to children from the Hope Children’s Home when she treated them to an interactive opportunity with the iconic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup trophy.

Local tournament ambassadors were also at State House in Georgetown on Wednesday morning.

Mrs. Ali expressed her delight in bringing joy to the children from one of their adopted orphanages.

The First Lady indicated these children probably would not have gotten a chance to be up close to the silverware and interact with local cricket stars.

She urged Guyanese to support the trophy tour, which continues Thursday with two public engagements—at St. George’s Cathedral from 13:00h and the Kingston Seawall Esplanade from 17:00h—and, most importantly, turn out in numbers for the matches at the National Stadium, Providence.

Guyana will host five group matches from June 2-8, followed by the second semi-final on June 27.

Physical ticket sales are ongoing at the Guyana Cricket Board office on Regent Street.

Schedule for Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 matches at the National Stadium, Providence:

• Sunday, June 2: West Indies v Papua New Guinea- 10:30h

• Monday, June 3: Afghanistan v Uganda20:30h

• Wednesday, June 5: Papua New Guinea v Uganda- 19:30h

• Friday, June 7: New Zealand v Afghanistan19:30h

• Saturday, June 8: West Indies v Uganda20:30h

•       Thursday, June 27: Semi-final Two- 10:30h

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday May 23, 2024)

Demerara Volleyball Association Clubs League…

GDF and Castrol Strikers Emerge victorious

CASTROL Strikers and the Guyana Defence Force showed strength to take comfortable wins in the latest matches of the Demerara Volleyball Association Clubs League at the National Gymnasium.

On Tuesday evening Guyana Defence Force defeated Eagles volleyball club in straight sets.

The GDF were led by Omari Joseph and Steffon Norah who led in offensive and defensive play to take a dominating victory.

The opening set saw them winning 25-20 before going onto clinch the second set 25-22 and following that up with a comfortable third set 25-22 win.

On Monday in a clash to determine the top team, Castrol strikers defeated

Alpha volleyball club in a tough five sets clash.

Alpha took the first set 25-20 but Castrol strikers struck in the next two sets 25-16 and 25-13 to ensure they remain at the top of the league table as the second round heats up.

They were led by GDF’s top scorer Corwyn Richards.

Alpha showed determination to edge the fourth set 25-23 but Castrol managed to come back to take the fifth set 16-14 for the win.

The win sees Alpha maintaining their place at the top of the leader board but only ahead of Castrol Strikes on aggregate; both have 19 points.

GDF is second with 18 points. Games continue through-out the week.

AP invitational makes grand return in June

THE famed AP Invitational athletics meet named after Olympian and former national 400m record holder Aliann Pompey is set to return to the National Track and Field Centre in Guyana on June 22.

The event, which had its genesis on the eve of the Rio summer Olympics in neighbouring Brazil, returns in much the same way as its inaugural hosting on the eve of the Paris Olympic Games set for France from July 26th to August 11th

The Aliann Pompey Invitational was hosted for a number of years before its fiveyear hiatus owing to the pandemic, followed by the resurfacing of the country’s lone track which serves as the premier venue for the event.

The AP invitational founder Aliann Pompey, said, “We’re thrilled to have the event back on the international calendar. This year’s theme of legacy.”

She also noted that, “Our athletes have made significant strides since the inception of the event and will feature prominently in the competition fields. Our young athletes were tested at ‘CARIFTA’ and were extremely successful, with (Malachi) Austin, (Tiana) Springer and (Athaleyha) Hinckson bringing home gold in exciting fashion.”

Pompey says that the success of Guyana’s athletes in the USA system has also been noteworthy, “Our athletes in the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) system and JUCO (National Junior College Athletic Association) are being awarded All-American status for finishing in the top eight at the championships. And our senior athletes are competing at the highest level of the Continental Tour, with Aliyah Abrams taking the charge.”

She says that this year’s return holds special significance once again, “The date of the event was brought forward so that it fits in the Olympic qualifying window, meaning if someone makes the standard it counts. “For me right now, one of the most excit-

Aliann

ing things we’re finalising is the field for the men’s 4x100 relay. The potential for history to be made again on Guyana’s soil in this way would be incredible and we’ll need all your in-person support,” she added.

Pompey, who specialised in the 400 metres when she competed, represented Guyana at the Summer Olympics and World Championships on several occasions, during 2000-2012

Her crowning achievement was winning the gold medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games and a silver again in 2010.

She is presently PANAM Sports athlete’s commission President and Head Coach of St. John’s University in New York City and International Olympic Committee’s Athlete Liaison.

Horsemen anticipate smooth transition with introduction of legislation

HORSE racing in Guyana is expected to have legislation before the Guyana Cup which is expected to run off on August 11 at Rising Sun.

The impending legislation aims to establish a recognised Guyana Horse Racing Authority, tasked with regulating major stables, officials, jockeys, and handlers.

Horsemen across Guyana have welcomed this initiative to have legislation which will be a big boost for the sport of kings.

Veteran trainer and horse owner, Fazal Habibulla is also urging promoters to educate with horsemen from now. He believes this will allow a smooth transition when legislation acts.

“I know for sure the Government of Guyana is playing their part. We need to start sensitising horse owners from now.”

Young horse owner Zahir Khan expressed positive sentiments, noting that it would attract more foreign horses to race in Guyana and return abroad.

“I think that is where we must go. That is the direction. It will also encourage horses to come into Guyana, race and return. We cannot have these

big races, paying a lot of money and a person would bring a horse into the country and know they cannot take it back,” Khan said.

Meanwhile, Trinidadian horse owner Densil Raghoo lauded the vision of the young horse promoters in Guyana.

“I have seen that the government is doing their part in the regulation of races. They are different things that can be done to get expenses from the owners. It is also good to know that the Honorable President (Dr Irfaan Ali) is a lover for horse racing.”

Raghoo is calling for more horse racing favorites as the sport continues its growth.

The legislative initiative comes after previous attempts in 2014, and key elements include provisions to address violations, expand the Authority’s membership, introduce term limits, and implement licensing for owners, jockeys, and trainers.

This development is expected to bring clarity, structure, and oversight to the horse racing industry in Guyana, marking a significant step toward its formal recognition and regulation.

The GDF team

Pompey

BCQS International Squash Tournament in Barbados…

Guyana suffers mixed fortunes on opening day

GUYANA’S Dennis Dias beat Trevor Dunkley of Great Britain 3-11, 9-11,2-11 in Over 65 division on the opening day of the BCQS International annual Squash Tournament at the Barbados Squash Club in Christ Church on Tuesday.

However, Robin Low,

playing in the over 55 category, lost to Barbadian Tony McKenzie 3-11, 4-11, 8-11 in the tournament as Guyana’s four man contingent got going.

At press time yesterday, Dias, in his second game, had been beaten by Richard Hart of Trinidad and Tobago 10-12, 4-11, 2-11 in a tournament which has

attracted over 100 players from 16 Counties.

Regan Pollard (Over 45) and Joseph Mekdeci (Over 55) are the other Guyanese competing for top honors

Pollard was set to oppose Bajan Don Benn last night while Mekdeci will play his first match this morning. (Sean Devers)

Preparations in full swing at Bourda for World Cup practice

By Sean Devers

YESTERDAY, when the Guyana Chronicle paid a visit to the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), home of the historic Bourda Cricket Ground, preparations as a practice venue for the ICC T20 World Cup were in full swing.

The sightscreens and the triple-decker Rohan Kanhai stands were repainted; the newly resurfaced pitch was being rolled; the outfield was being cut and the T20 World Cup banners were hung around the perimeter of the ground and on the stands.

President of the GCC Jonathan Yearwood said that the rain has affected the cutting of the ground and to some extent the pitch preparation.

“Today [yesterday] we have some sunshine and [we are] cutting the grass on the outfield. We are heading in the right direction in terms of getting everything ready by the time the teams start to come into Guyana, so [I] am satisfied at where we are,”

informed Yearwood.

He said the GCC is a private venue and the biggest challenge is getting adequate funding to maintain the club, which hosts local cricket and has a hockey section.

–– GCC President ‘extremely disappointed’ that trophy not going to Bourda

“The Guyana Government is funding most of the work being done here for the World Cup, since the ICC has mandated what has to be done for Guyana to host matches. We [GCC] are doing our part. They have provided 10 additional groundstaff members to complement the two we have on staff.

“Since the Providence Stadium was constructed, our membership has dwindled, since international and even first-class cricket is no longer being played here,” continued Yearwood.

Yearwood’s biggest disappointment is not having the World Cup Trophy come to Bourda, which along with Everest and the police ground, Eve Leary, are the practice venues in Guyana.

“I am extremely disappointed that [the] World Cup Trophy is not going to be brought to Bourda, which has a rich cricketing history and has produced so many outstanding players for the West Indies,” he said.

According to the GCC president, “GCC is the home of Hooper, Chanderpaul and Sarwan who are among the last high-quality batsmen in West Indies cricket. The club members are very disappointed that the World Cup Trophy is not coming here. I heard it’s being taken to Kaieteur Falls, St George’s Cathedral and to the First Lady’s residence. I don’t know who

is responsible for where the trophy goes in Guyana, but I would have thought it would have been taken to Albion so that the Berbicians can see it and also to Essequibo for those who live there to see it,” lamented Yearwood.

Guyana will host six matches from June 2-27 when the semi-finals will be played. West Indies play PNG on June 2 and Uganda on June 8.

Meanwhile, Bourda, which was opened in 1884, has hosted 30 Test matches, including the West Indies’ first Test victory when they beat England by 289 runs in the third Test in 1930.

In this game the legendary George Headley became the first West Indian the score centuries in both innings of a Test match.

One of only two Test venues in South America

(both in Guyana), Bourda is the only ground in the world where Test cricket was played where the venue is on the equator.

Like the ARG in Antigua, when the Providence Stadium was constructed for the 2007 World Cup, all international matches were moved from the Georgetown-based venue to the East Bank of Demerara.

This left the iconic Bourda, located in the heart of the city, with not even first-class matches.

Gradually, without much funding, the Stands at Bourda, named after Kenny Wishart, Clive Lloyd, Lance Gibbs and the Schoolboys Stand all went into disrepair and were dismantled, leaving only the concrete Rohan Kanhai stand still standing.

Dennis Dias (left) beat Trevor Dunkley of Great Britain 3-11, 9-11,2-11 in his opening game

GCC President Jonathan Yearwood hard at work at his club yesterday.

The ground is being slashed while the pitch is being rolled as preparations continued yesterday

First Lady treats Hope Children’s

Home to World T20 trophy interaction

Horsemen anticipate smooth transition with

First Lady Arya Ali (centre) along with local ambassadors and children from the Hope Children’s Home at State House (Photo: Office of the First Lady)