Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 24-09-2023.pdf

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Guyana will not be intimidated

- President Ali reassures Guyanese that the gov’t will spare no effort to protect its territory

- Opposition stands in unison with gov’t to protect Guyana

OAS, CARICOM, Commonwealth denounce Venezuela’s threats

$56M water system, $40M housing programme announced for Quebanang Village

12% surge in passenger arrivals recorded at CJIA

Bringing together Guyanese from all walks of life is what Festival Tasinpansa is accomplishing. The Macushi word, which means “We are happy”, has truly captured the essence of Amerindian Heritage Month, and how diverse the culture is. The three-day exhibition ended on Saturday at Main Street, Georgetown (Delano Williams photos)

Guyana will not be intimidated

- President Ali reassures Guyanese that the gov’t will spare no effort to protect its territory

By Trina Williams

AMIDST recent claims by Venezuela to Guyana's territory, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has maintained that the government will uphold and safeguard the nation’s territorial sovereignty and will not be intimidated by the Bolivarian Republic's actions.

The Head of State, in an update on his official Facebook page on Saturday, assured Guyanese that the government will spare no efforts to protect Essequibo.

In a patriotic update, the President said: “So, I want to assure all Guyanese that we are going to consistently defend what is ours, Essequibo, in a strong way, in the framework of international law and peace and we’re together on this as a nation…make no mistake, Guyana is together on this.”

He then went on to say: “We as a people and a country are aware of our boundaries and we respect our neighbours, and we continue to promote living and existing in a zone of peace, and we reject totally Venezuela’s attempt to disrupt the peace within this Region and this zone.

“As you know, we have subscribed ourselves to a process which is being carried out at the ICJ [International Court of Justice] and that we have submitted ourselves not only to the process of the ICJ, but [also to] the outcome of the ICJ.”

It is for this reason that he urged Venezuela to par-

- Opposition stands in unison with gov’t to protect Guyana

Leader Aubrey Norton, and shared statements from the various regional and international institutions that are rallying behind the nation’s sovereignty.

President Ali said: “I want to thank the international community for a strong and steady support… the consistent support for Guyana and their strong position in relation to international law, the rule of law and respect for Guyana’s territorial integrity.”

He also said that this

matter was raised with the United Nations Secretary-General, as Guyana’s only aim is to safeguard its territorial sovereignty under international law and the rule of law.

Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, reaffirmed that they will stand in unity with the Government of Guyana to protect the nation’s sovereignty.

“The President and I spoke this morning and I reiterated our support to the government as it relates to the territorial controversy

ticipate in this process and to also be respectful of the ruling of the ICJ.

Shedding light on the heightened tensions, the President said that the Government of Guyana took note and responded to the statements that emanated from Venezuela, which stood in contradiction to peace and security.

Touching more on the intention of Venezuela’s statements, President Ali said that they were aimed at expanding and promoting the country’s “false claim” and creating an “aggressive environment.”

“We as a neighbour remain consistent and peaceful in our approach to resolving this matter and having it concluded at the ICJ,” the Guyanese Head of State firmly asserted.

He added: “The Government of Guyana has, therefore, noted the extreme concern [of] the decision of Venezuela’s Na-

tional Assembly to conduct a referendum on defending Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s territory, Essequibo,

“Guyana regards this as a front [sic] to the rule of international law and the preservation of peace and security, especially since the territorial case has been brought before the International Court of Justice.”

ZONE OF PEACE

Dr. Ali maintained that the Government of Guyana will continue to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity with respect of the rule of law by its side.

He said: “The Government of Guyana will continue to strenuously defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, which endeavours for this to remain premised on respect for the rule of law.”

President Ali has since engaged the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, and Opposition

with Venezuela,” Norton affirmed.

A statement released by the Opposition on Saturday, read: “Today, Saturday 23rd September 2023, the Leader of the Opposition Aubrey C. Norton, MP, was briefed by H.E. President Irfaan Ali on the current developments surrounding the Guyana/Venezuela border. Mr. Norton reaffirmed the Opposition's support for Guyana's long-held position that the Arbitral Award of 1899 settled the border between Guyana and Venezuela and that Essequibo belongs to Guyana.

“The Opposition opposes and condemns all forms of aggression by Venezuela against Guyana. We also welcome the support of the international community in protecting our territorial integrity and sovereignty.”

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Guyana’s Golden Arrowhead

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

UGSS launches website for official use by UG students

THE University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS) last Wednesday officially launched its website in keeping with a promise by its president, Shaquawn Gill.

He committed to creating a student complaints operating system that would allow students to document their complaints to the UGSS in a formal way.

This is the first time this is being done through a technological mechanism. There is a student complaints section on the website that allows students to provide their name, email address, faculty and complaint.

Gill explained that once this is done, students will receive an email stating that

their complaint has been documented, along with additional warning that if within three days a response or update is not received, numbers for each faculty representative is presented, along with the numbers of other executive members, including the president and vice-president.

This was done to promote accountability among the student representatives. The Student Society President remarked that this website is here to stay as future student representatives will be able to benefit from it.

“This is not a website that is going to last for a few months, till our term ends then disappears. But every single council here after, will benefit from this initiative.

Every single student here after, will benefit from this initiative.”

This new development in the world of UG students is a monumental one, and is a key symbol of modern-day university in this everchanging world. It was only on September 2, that the UGSS in collaboration with GTT, launched the GTT-UG student plan initiative.

Gill also addressed the issues international students face when coming to Guyana for studies. And the website provides a mechanism for them, According to him, the UGSS has recognised that the international students who come to Guyana have limited access to resources and many of them are unaware of where to find a supermarket, or where the nearest laundromats are.

To make this easier on them, on the website’s student life section, the UGSS has highlighted several of these services. There is also

a blog section, which will provide students with information on how to study in an effective manner, how to rest and how to exercise. The blogs, he said, will be done by Communications Studies students, who will be able to

perfect their skills and craft and to create a repertoire for themselves as Communications students, journalists or potential journalists.

The UGSS was able to fully fund the website through the payments of student society fees by students. Information on clubs, along with their social media

handles are also provided on the website. Student visa information, the academic calendar, the GTT /UG Student Plan, and a Turkeyene campus map can all be accessed on the website as well. The UGSS website is being run by the Cyber Security Club at the University.

The UGSS is now online

$56M water system, $40M housing programme announced for Quebanang Village

QUEBANANG Village, situated in the upper reaches of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), is set to receive a significant boost with the installation of a new $56.3 million water distribution system.

The community has been chosen as one of the beneficiaries of the Hinterland Housing Programme, where 10 vulnerable families will receive homes valued at approximately $40 million. These developments were unveiled by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal during his recent visit to the area. He was accompanied by Hinterland Service Director Ramchand Jailall.

Quebanang, a satellite village of Jawalla, currently relies on a spring source and a small PV and distribution pipe network to supply water to a portion of the community. However, this existing

system is inadequate to meet the water demands of the entire area.

Minister Croal had visited the area some time back, and the residents had raised with him their concerns about the challenges they faced in accessing clean and safe water. The pollution resulting from mining activities in the nearby river rendered its water unsafe for consumption.

He made a commitment to address this issue, and the announcement of the construction of a new system offers much-needed relief to the community. The project is slated to commence shortly, and will be executed by R. Kissoon Contracting Services.

“We made a commitment, and we have delivered on that commitment. That is what we do as a government; we want to ensure that we uplift your

quality of life,” he told the residents.

Regarding the housing programme, Minister Croal announced that the project will commence before the end of this year, and that each unit is estimated to cost $4 million.

All materials for construction will be sourced from the village. The ministry will cover the wages of two skilled labourers, while the selected beneficiaries will supply the remaining labour required to complete their respective units.

This programme is specifically aimed at vulnerable groups within Amerindian villages, including the elderly and single parents. The minister urged the Village Council to prioritise transparency during the selection process.

The minister said the government understands the needs of the communities and is making resourc-

es available to address those needs.

“In the short three years, we are investing in you and your children’s development; we are talking right away for this small community, an

injection of close to $100 million,” he highlighted.

Minister Croal also assured the residents that they will benefit from solar panels through the Hinterland solar home installation programme. Each system features a

160-watt solar panel and a mobile charging facility, among other basic fittings. The village also received a tractor and trailer from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to aid in their agriculture programme. (DPI)

Cricket Carnival road parade set for tomorrow

GENERAL Manager of Cricket Carnival, Abigail Mohabir said all of the Cricket Carnival activities have so far been successful, with the highly-anticipated Super Concert and the Cricket Carnival Road Parade planned for this weekend.

She was at the time giving the Department of Public Information (DPI) an update on the

Road Parade, which will be held on Monday, September 25 at 13:00hrs.

“It will be held on the 25th of September; assembly time at 5pm,” she said. “We have five bands on board; The Pulse Warrior, Amazonia Fantasy Band, HJ Boom Nation, West Siderz Entertainment Heritage Band, and Decoded Carnival.”

The route will be the

same as last year, with bands assembling on Main Street and heading towards the roundabout at the Kitty Seawall. “The bands will head off east on Church Street, north into Irving Street, and they will continue around Chandisingh Road, and close at the roundabout at the seawall,” Mohabir stated.

To get registered on

one of the bands, persons can visit the Cricket Carnival Website and social media pages for more information.

“I would encourage persons to come out with your family and your friends, and experience what another year of Guyana Carnival would be like,” Mohabir added.

This year’s cricket carnival season featured

several concerts, among them the Regional Food Festival and Pan on the Avenue.

This year, too, Guyana is expecting to have a record number of visitors, peaking at

this time as the country hosts the Playoffs, Semi-Final and Finals of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and the Cricket Carnival. (DPI)

Scenes from last year’s Cricket Carnival

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal interacting with the residents of Quebanang

Cricket, Lovely Cricket

CRICKET in Guyana is more than just a game. It has become something of an institution, one that impacts the cultural and recreational life of Guyanese in deeply profound ways, regardless of race, class or politics.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the current Caribbean Premier League (CPL) being played at the National Stadium, Providence. This is the second consecutive year both the qualifying matches and the final are being played at the Providence Stadium, thanks to the strong advocacy role of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

In fact, Guyana will also be host to next year's final and semi-finals, making it three consecutive years of

hosting the final games.

According to President Ali, CPL is more than just cricket, but has the potential to catalyze regional growth and at the same time serve as a platform for the Region to market itself globally. In a diverse Region such as ours, cricket has always been a unifying force where people from all backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared passion.

This particular set of games in Guyana has not only been electrifying, but has brought to the fore the degree of national cohesion, with Guyanese fans throwing their overwhelming and unqualified support for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

This speaks a lot of both the prominence and pre-eminence of President Ali on the

regional stage, not only as it relates to economic matters but also in the sporting arena. It is a known fact that President Ali has a direct and close relationship with players and cricket administrators, both in Guyana and the Caribbean and has brought his enormous prestige and influence to the advantage of Guyana and the entire cricketing fraternity. The President and Executive of the Guyana Cricket Board in recognition of this fact had commended President Ali on his proactive role in bringing the finals to Guyana for three consecutive years.

It will be recalled that in 2022, President Ali made the historic announcement at the launch of the CPL 2022 Cricket Carnival. He made the point that the games pre-

sented a 'Caribbean flavour' of cricket and provided an opportunity for Guyana to showcase its full cultural repertoire.

The approach by government to ensure that the games were assigned to Guyana over a three-year period is nothing short of commendable and underscored the importance placed by the PPP/C administration on sports.

President Ali said he is optimistic that with innovative thinking, the CPL can be among the biggest event in the world of sports. The CPL must therefore be seen as more than just an event , but also as a platform for the Caribbean Region to market itself globally. In this regard, he urged every government in the Region to come on

board and provide support to the tournament. According to President Ali, the CPL has the ability 'to bring our people in the Region together, cementing us and fusing our culture.'

Dubbed 'the biggest party in sport as cricket is played louder,' CPL has re-ignited the passion and enthusiasm of cricket in a way never experienced before. The fan base has been greatly expanded to include women and children, which has added a new fervour and energy level to the game.

As the curtain of this season of the CPL games comes to an end, expectations are high that the Guyana Amazon Warriors, for the first time since the commencement of the game, will bring the coveted trophy home. Of

course, the Trinidad and Tobago Knight Riders are not expected to go down without a fight. In this regard, it is important for everyone to manage expectations and allow the outcome of the game to take its course.

Both President Ali and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo were visible in the stands during the games, interacting with players and fans and in the process providing much-needed moral support.

In the final analysis, however, it is the spirit of the games that really matters as we advance in the direction of regional integration and, in our own context, a 'One Guyana' vision as envisioned by President Ali.

President Ali blazing a path on global leadership

Dear Editor,

If you read any textbook on international relations (IR), you will walk away with the impression that small states, and especially developing countries, cannot have any impact in world affairs. This bias is rampant in most scholarly approaches that explain the structure and workings of the international system. Guyana’s strong leadership under President Ali is proving this to be dead wrong. IR is dominated by the realist school which argues that the key factor in international system is power. In this approach states are focused on using their power to compete with other states. Since Great Powers have the most

power, they are the ones that shape the rules of the game, and who can cause or prevent change in the global balance of power. A related school that goes by the name neo-realism, holds the view that it is not power per se that matters. Rather, it is the distribution of capabilities that counts. In this case small states must only be concerned with basic survival through protection by a Great Power.

Classical liberals think that while power is important, international institutions can play a vital role in helping to foster cooperation. The United Nations system is the most elaborate institutional expression of how cooperation might be structured and operationalized. In the eco-

nomic realm, the IMF, World Bank, and WTO have played key roles. In international security, the UN Security Council has the responsibility to look after world peace. In all of these arenas, small states are supposed to be only followers.

Notwithstanding the above, we are finding that small states can indeed have a voice. Guyana is playing a remarkably forceful role in the Americas and further afield, and this is due to strong leadership. This was demonstrated at the several high-level forums at the recently concluded 78th United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York. President Ali made a noticeable impact by illuminating the

concerns of the developing world. He has been pressing key issues well before that on matters related to development financing, climate change, and regional security. He has been passionately advocating the Bridgetown Initiative, which is focused on liquidity support, debt sustainability, reform in the governance of IFIs, and inter alia, a structured finance mechanisms for the carbon sequestration services provided by states with tropical rain forests.

President Ali is quickly emerging as one of the leading voices in the world on food security. While in New York, he noted that soon, Guyana will not only be self sufficient in corn and soya,

but that it will extend that capacity for the rest of the Caribbean. Earlier this year, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) named President Irfaan Ali the first recipient of the IICA Award for Contribution to Food Security and Sustainable Development. And while he was in New York for the 78th UN General Assembly meeting, he was honored by African Leadership Organisation for his global advocacy, on behalf of the developing world. It is also worth noting that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken singled out Guyana as a key partner for Caribbean regional security, with special attention to Haiti.

While IR theory is bi-

ased towards the Great Powers, and leaves little room for small states like Guyana, our leadership is demonstrating that small states do have a significant role to play. President Ali is rapidly emerging as a powerful voice for the global poor and powerless. The world saw this clearly when the Guyanese president told two British journalists, we do not want your palace; what we want is the justice owed to us. He had in mind reparations for the descendants of African enslaved peoples. Small countries too, can lead!

Sincerely,

Dr. Randolph Persaud

President Irfaan Ali last week: An analysis

There have been a flood of panegyrics for President, Dr Irfaan Ali for his strong intellectual defence of the necessity for reparations with two British interviewers on a national television programme titled, “Good Morning Britain.”

His delivery was characterised by an incisive rebuttal to the banalities of Western eugenics that have been heaped upon the nonwhite world, non-Western peoples the past few hundred years. I prefer the term, “Western eugenics” to “Western cultural superiority” because I think it better describes the psyche of the Western mind. This “better blood” belief is a like a stain on a fabric that cannot be removed.

Deep in the psyche of Judaic-Christian civilization is the belief that there is a cleaner, genetic make-up of Western people that makes them anthropologically superior to any other race group. We can use two examples to demonstrate how strong this instinct is. The Polish Prime Minister years ago rejected Turkiye being part of the EU and the reason he said was because there is one European nation and Turkiye is not of that stock.

Secondly, when the Russian invaded Ukraine and people were running into other European countries, CBS’ foreign correspondent, Charlie D’Agata, and France’s BFM television journalist, Phillipe Corbet exclaimed that they were civilized and “look like us.” The other side of the coin is both journalists didn’t see the Middle East and African refugees as being equal to the Ukrainians.

You can get carried away by Dr. Ali’s superb, almost sublime intellectualism, as he neatly and impeccably offer the defense of the cries of the non-white peoples of the world for reparations for the worst human right violation since civilization was born – European slave trade.

The President’s delivery was calm, effective and decently shaped. But there are deep, invisible meanings in President’s Ali interview and his speech at the UN. We need to look at those subliminal meanings. I will do so below.

While I agree with the sentiment that the male interviewer was rude in the way he laughed and stomped his hand on the table, I believe that was a nat-

ural response to being defeated. President Ali exposed the interviewer’s shallow journalism when his stupidly asked the Guyanese President if he wanted as part of reparation, a royal castle. Dr. Ali’s response was infused with a touch of brilliance. Dr Ali said, ‘no, we don’t want a castle, you can keep your castle, we want historical justice.’

Here is what I believe happened. When the producers of Good Morning Britain secured the interview with Dr. Ali, immediately Western eugenics kicked in. The interviewer, Richard Madeley no doubt believed that he would get the better of some mediocre Third World leader that cannot articulate and speak English coherently. His laughing and hand stomping was a mask to hide the putting down he got from the Guyanese President. Here now are the deeper meanings to President Ali’s deliveries in the interview and at the UN. One - Dr. Ali brought out the inherent feelings of generations of people in the developing world that the West treated them and continue to treat them unjustly. Dr. Ai was simply brilliant in comparing what was not given to Haiti in

60 years was given to Ukraine in just two years. He stressed the point that what has been given to the Ukraine in two years, other developing countries have not received in decades.

Two - in both the interview and at the UN, he articulated the sympathy the peoples of the post-colonial world have for the displaced Palestinian nation. In his UN delivery, he echoed the rejection by the post-colonial world of how the US mistreats Cuba. He did not fail to touch on the historic injustice of the American embargo against Cuba.

Three – in both the interview and the UN speech, there lies the broad outline of President Ali’s perspective on international relations now and into the future. It is a perspective that has the protection of the gains of the post-colonial world.

Four - in both the interview and the UN

speech, lies the direction Guyana, under Ali, will walk in a world of competing hegemonic powers. He will not side with the interests of superpowers but will resuscitate the pathway both Jagan and Burnham took over 70 years ago. Dr. Ali made it clear in both the interview and at the UN that Guyana will remain firmly in the sphere of the developing world.

Five - he accepts that slavery was the

worst form of assault on human dignity. Finally, and more importantly, the interview demonstrates what the shape the psychology of a human should be like. Here was a leader, not from Africa but from the Caribbean, articulating a grievance of the entire Third World. By extension, it renders obsolete the theory in Guyana that leaders cannot cross the racial divide.

Oil exploration link to reduced fish catch unproven

A GROWING chorus of stories have raised questions about one of Guyana’s most important traditional industries. However, fishermen who have real worries about declining catches are pinning the blame on offshore oil operations. Few people would naturally assume that oil is somehow good for fish, so this is an easy story to swallow. But there are real questions that remain about this narrative and getting to the bottom of the real causes is crucial to preserving a historic and valuable industry.

Guyana’s fishing take rose throughout the 1980s and 1990s, reaching its peak in 2013 and then declining substantially through 2015— before oil production began.

If fishermen are indeed seeing a decline since 2015, it would be critical to assess whether oil actually has a role or if the decline that began in the early 2010s, long before oil production, has

simply continued to this day. Unfortunately, data is scarce and comprehensive analyses of fish stocks that could provide evidence one way or another are nonexistent.

But there are a number of other problems with the oil theory as well.

Guyana’s fisheries exist overwhelmingly in very shallow waters within a few kilometres of shore. Crucial species like shrimp live and breed in waters only a few metres deep and rely heavily on coastal mangroves. The Stabroek Block oil operations are more than 150 kilometres offshore in water thousands of metres deep beyond the continental shelf. This hardly seems like a plausible cause-effect relationship. Instead, there are several potential factors that could lend to [A1]the decline in catch unrelated to oil and gas exploration/ development.

Other factors, like the rapid expansion of coastal

Suicide

By Vanessa Cort

I WAS told by my eldest daughter of the death by suicide of an attractive Guyanese woman who appeared to be in her late 20s, but was actually 36-years-old. When I saw the picture of a smiling young woman who exuded such warmth, I was moved to tears.

I was even more alarmed when I learned that June Ann De Abreu had made a TikTok video announcing her intention and leaving messages prior to taking her life

Once more, the chilling spectre of death by suicide has loomed its ugly ‘head’ in Guyana, following another suspected suicide last month of an even younger woman, 19-year-old, Malinda Fiona Niewenkirk. Just a day earlier, there was also a suspected suicide by a 40-year-old businessman, Hector Calvin

infrastructure and modernisation, which impact mangroves that serve as critical breeding grounds, must also be considered. The global problem of overfishing and the aggressive behavior of many countries’ fishing fleets have also caused declines or population movements in many species.

An assessment of these conditions is crucial to understanding what is actually at play. While it is unfortunate that the previous government failed to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of ocean resources before oil production began, it is not too late to do so.

Examining the fish stocks themselves is also a vital step that Exxon is now taking. Studying the number of fish in a population and the stability and growth rates of that population is a much more accurate measure of the health of a species than the total weight or price of the fish that are caught annually.

The reality is that many of the world’s largest oil producers have traditionally had, and still have, large, thriving and well-managed fisheries. Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, among many others, all have offshore oil operations many times larger than Guyana’s and have huge and productive fishing fleets much larger than Guyana’s.

The common denominator of all these countries is that they actively manage their fisheries. Many have utilised agencies to set quotas and limits and carefully monitor fish populations. With these tactics, countries have brought back species like cod and sardines that nearly collapsed from overfishing and have created productive and sustainable fisheries.

Oil has not spelled the death of fishing in any of these places. And nor will it do so in Guyana.

There are strong fishing industries in places where

even the worst kind of disasters have occurred like the Gulf of Mexico (Deepwater Horizon 2010). In fact, shrimp quotas allowed by the U.S.

National Marine Fisheries Service have increased 65 percent since 2007. A study from George Mason University found that the number of shrimp in the areas worst affected by the spill returned to normal just two years later and the overall population of shrimp throughout the Gulf actually rose from 2010 to 2011. Quotas were vital in saving shrimp from severe overfishing in the 1990s and have been instrumental in making it a major sustainable operation in the Gulf of Mexico.

Guyana should closely monitor and manage its fishery, putting appropriate systems in place to evaluate stocks and issue quotas. This can help offset the growing dangers of overfishing and the new processing plant,

which opened in March and has increased Guyana’s shrimp exporting capabilities. That plant alone increased demand for shrimp by nearly 40 tonnes a day from around 50 tonnes per day last year. The Marine Stewardship Council previously recommended a maximum sustainable average catch rate of just over 54 tonnes/day for Guyana’s primary shrimp species and highlighted that Guyana was at serious risk of depleting shrimp stocks.

As baseline studies are being conducted, Guyana has a chance to also implement a monitoring and quotas system that can help the country to protect its fisheries long-term. That kind of comprehensive system to evaluate and manage Guyana’s key fish stocks going forward would go a long way towards preserving those for the future and helping to understand the real problems at play.

once again gaining attention

Hartwell and four days before this, the police were probing a suspected murder/ suicide involving a 26-yearold farmer, Ajay Budhan. These are just some of the cases this year.

And I ask myself for the ‘umpteenth’ time: what would cause a person to be without hope so as to decide to die by their own hands?

Those ‘left behind’ often ask the same question, along with the ‘what ifs’ – ‘what if I had spotted the signs earlier?’

In the case of murder-suicide, the reason at least seems obvious. But in the case of Ms. De Abreu, perhaps some inkling of what was troubling her can be gleaned from one of the messages she sent: “To the guys I had loved unconditionally, who had me questioning my self worth, asking if I was enough.” She went on to say, “I left earth knowing I was enough or

even more.”

But did she really believe this? The act of taking her own life would seem to indicate that she still felt somewhat inadequate or unworthy. But as she is no longer here to answer questions, this is all pure speculation.

Apparently, this lovely pharmacist tried suicide unsuccessfully once before. The second time around she not only succeeded but clearly planned the act, sending messages to her son, family and friends beforehand.

I was immediately reminded of the words of Guyanese Psychotherapist Shane Tull, who said in an interview that people who threaten suicide or attempt it, contrary to popular thought, usually carry it through and should be taken seriously.

The experts at Harvard Health in the US tell us that

“…a loss through suicide is like no other and the grieving can be especially complex and traumatic.” Some suicide survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), whereby they involuntarily re-live the trauma.

Particularly disturbing is what the doctors refer to as the ‘mixed emotions’ following a suicide. They point out that after a homicide, survivors can direct their anger at the perpetrator. “In a suicide the victim is the perpetrator, so there is a bewildering clash of emotions.”

While some who die by suicide are mentally disturbed or facing circumstances they find intolerable, for others the act “may seem like an assault on or rejection of those left behind.”

Researchers suggest that suicide survivors seek individual counselling and suicide support groups or

‘similar kinship’ groups where, for instance, parents talk to parents. They stress, however that, “Suicide isn’t the most important thing about the person who died.”

As June Ann De Abreu said, “Remember my crazy ways the way I used to laugh…remember me singing karaoke…”

And on a more sombre note, French Nobel Prize winner and writer, Albert

Camus, said this: “There is but one truly serious philosophical problem and that is suicide. Judging whether life is or is not worth living amounts to answering the fundamental question of philosophy.”

The Suicide Prevention Hotline in Guyana can be reached on 223-0001/09, 600-7896 and 623-4444. Call for professional counselling.

PNC/R powerplay

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) is a political party of extreme complexities.

It is a party where the class structure is evident but its hold on the grassroots and ordinary Guyanese is still strong, though that hold is becoming weaker as years go by.

Undoubtedly, the group that is leading the PNC/R has had a complex relationship with the practice of covert and subliminal racism ever since the days of the late founding member, party leader and Prime Minister Forbes Burnham.

The party has used this covert racism to guide its relations and influence its stance on every policy position in Guyana. Also, subliminal racism has kept the party groups alive and tightly shut while they pick and choose which one or two members to allow in the PNC/R.

Looking at it from an objective perspective, the PNC/R has solidified itself as an ethnic party that champions the cause of Afro-Guyanese.

There is always going to be another ethnic grouping to lend credence to its multicul-

tural and diverse propaganda claim but that is just for election purposes. These are individuals who are treated like tokens and serve the ‘window dressing’ purpose.

This has served every PNC/R Executive since 1957 and right up to the 1986 timeframe when Desmond Hoyte famously started to engineer meaningful reforms and change within the bosom of the party. He wanted the leadership of the PNC/R to be competent, intelligent, and knowledgeable Guyanese, not just Afro-Guyanese. So, he started the improvement of the Indian people and other minority racial groups.

This soon took the backburner as the ugly racism sprung up in the PNC/R into the 1990’s and 2000’s straight up to 2011 with Robert Corbin trying his hand at forming various alliances and coalitions, but it was all sham coalitions destined to fail.

Then, opposition political forces unified under David Granger and allowed the main driving factor which had been racism to sleep and lie dormant. He became President and suddenly the racism and the politics of the PNC/R were given life again.

Throughout his tenure, they did nothing for black people or Africans of significance, and nothing to better their lives which they said were retarded and affected by the alleged years of racism.

Now, they raised the salaries of public servants, teachers and nurses marginally but the Granger administration did not do this for all Guyanese. It was the first sign of more atrocities to come, and they did engineer this focus, covert and subliminal racism against the Guyanese at large. With every top appointment, it seemed meritocracy was never considered. It was like the military and police background were always considered for employment.

Fast track to the present day, the leadership of Aubrey Norton, who is considered a political strategist, has taken the party back to pre-1985 with his actions and positions. Also, racism is alive and well. It is not covert even though the present political climate rejects it. Norton has joined with others, in and out of Guyana, in adopting the false line that somehow the government of the day is racist and discriminatory

but fails again to show or present evidence of just how racist it is.

He knows that his predecessor Granger dropped the ball on having this issue addressed once and for all, if it is as prevalent as they say, by having the Ethic Relations Commission, the State and independent parties investigate racism in Guyana.

Apart from this, he has been accused of racism towards his party members particularly those of various racial backgrounds. He has conflicts with a majority of old, different and modern thinkers who want the PNC/R to move away from the Burnham way of leading and doing things.

After all, he is not half the leader Burnham, Hoyte and Corbin were and should not seek to project their attitudes onto the role of opposition leader now. They are leaders from the past who are dated. Also, Norton is

allowing his affinity with the ‘spirits’ and social weaknesses to affect his tenure. The opposition leader's obsession with Bharrat Jagdeo is unhealthy as his apparent disdain and disrespect shown to President Dr Irfaan Ali who is surprisingly on the course of uniting different ethnic groups into one melting pot of culture and ‘One Guyana’.

Norton’s leadership is weak and may yet have debilitating effects on the PNC/R if he is allowed to lead the party in the upcoming elections. If the PNC/R was fractured and divided when he took over the reins of power in 2021, it is even further disunified and badly divided with cracks hidden right in Congress Place.

The party must hold fast to democratic rules and withstand the strength of Norton’s political games. The general council and the central executive council must do what is right for the party and the

congress. Where are all these policies, plans and proposals that the PNC/R has for Guyana? Norton has none. Where is the challenger of Norton? Are the party leadership weak and compliant?

What happened to Volda Lawrence and the other women in the party? Have they been silenced to soothe Norton’s thirst for media attention and lust for power?

Where are Christopher Jones, Ganesh Mahipaul, Amanza Desir, Roysdale Forde and even Sharma Solomon to rescue the party from Norton’s grip?

Unfortunately, the PNC/R keeps repeating the same mistakes in the leadership of the party and the country. It chooses square pegs to fit in round holes and when that is exposed, they unceremoniously rig the process. Then, back to the PNC/R racism which is their lifeblood!

CARICOM stands firm in protecting Guyana’s

sovereignty

REITERATING its support and preservation of Guyana’s territorial sovereignty, the Commonwealth Ministerial Group is standing firm with the judicial process underway before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as Guyana and Venezuela seek to settle its decades old border controversy.

Following recent threatening statements from Venezuela, the Commonwealth also called for Guyana to be able to carry out its unobstructed sovereign right to develop the entirety of its territory for the benefit of the citizens.

The following is a statement issued by the Commonwealth Ministerial Group:

The Commonwealth Ministerial Group on Guyana was convened in New York on 17 September 2023 by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, in accordance with a mandate given by the

Commonwealth Heads of Government to monitor “developments in respect of the existing controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.”

The Group constituted in 1999 by the Heads of Government of the 56-Member countries, is composed of Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Canada, Guyana, Jamaica, South Africa, and the United

- notes ‘threat’ from Venezuela

Kingdom.

At the Meeting, chaired by Hon. Dr A. K. Abdul Momen, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, the Group welcomed the ruling by the International Court of Justice on the admissibility of Guyana’s case before it, seeking to settle the boundaries between Guyana and Venezuela.

Further, the Group reaffirmed its unwavering support for the judicial process underway before the International Court of Justice and reiterated its firm and steadfast support for the maintenance and preservation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana, and the unobstructed exercise of its rights to develop the entirety of its territory for the benefit of its people.

THE COMMONWEALTH OF NATIONS

RALLYING behind its sister member state to protect its sovereignty, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has declared that the intention behind a Communique emanating from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is a “threat.”

Earlier this week, Guyana was forced to respond to a number of statements issued by the Government of Venezuela and other senior functionaries in relation to Guyana’s decision to continue the bid process of its oil blocks.

The following is the full statement from CARICOM: The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) notes with grave concern the contents of a Communique emanating from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela regarding the announcement made by our sister Member State, the Cooperative Republic of

Guyana, about its intention to open bids for certain oil blocks in the waters adjacent to Guyana’s coast.

CARICOM views the stated intention of Venezuela to “apply all the necessary measures” to prevent the operations licensed by Guyana in its waters, as a threat of the use of force contrary to international law. It is also not in keeping with the long-standing position of the Latin American and Caribbean countries that our Region must remain a Zone of Peace.

CARICOM has also taken note of the decision of the Venezuelan National Assembly to conduct a popular referendum on defending

Venezuela’s claim. CARICOM expresses the hope that Venezuela will engage fully in the process before the International Court of Justice, which has determined that it has the jurisdiction in the case brought before it. The Court’s final decision will ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law.

The Caribbean Community reiterates its full and unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, including its right to peacefully develop the resources of its territory.

Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland

Guyana/Venezuela border controversy: Commonwealth calls for judicial to process be respected

Virtual Tours makes a giant leap on Guyana’s ‘tech’ scene

By Faith Greene

IN Guyana, many might have seen the virtual tours being shared on social media, including the recent tours of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), and the Parliament Chamber of the Public Buildings. The use of virtual tourism is becoming popular as companies bring a number of spaces and locations to you through the use of technology.

Fundamentally, virtual tourism is a hybrid concept which combines the notions of both virtual reality and

tourism. In virtual tourism, a tourism experience is facilitated without having to travel anywhere; it takes several different forms, and

comes in many degrees of technological capabilities.

Virtual tourism, in its simplest form, may comprise of a video of a tourism

destination, where tourists are able to watch the video, utilising their audio and visual senses. More polished forms of virtual tourism include being engrossed in an environment through the use of a headset or simulator, like in virtual-reality games for example.

It may also involve the use of ‘props’ such as gloves, or additional sensations such as movement, feeling, and smell. Virtual tourism covers a broad scope of digitally-meditated reality, which includes virtual reality, and mixed reality, and augmented reality.

One company that stands apart in providing these amazing views is Virtual Estate 360, a pioneering virtual tour company headed by Ackeem Thomas.

As Thomas explained, this type of technology is fairly new to Guyanese, and although virtual tours were able to gain in popularity in many regions around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic, the integration of this technology in Guyana is still unfamiliar.

But all that is about to change, he said. “As the world increasingly turns to digital platforms for exploration and education, Guyana will soon find itself at the forefront of this technology, with the rapid development of the country.

Virtual Estate 360 creates 3D/360-degree virtual, interactive panoramic views of real locations or spaces that allow persons to navigate through them from anywhere in the world.

Virtual Estate 360 was established in February 2022, during the pandemic when businesses worldwide were shut down. According to Thomas, his inspiration for the company came as a

result of the negative impact of COVID-19.

He noted that businesses found it harder to attract customers, and to showcase their products. His company, he said, was established as a strategy to consistently promote businesses while generating sales.

ENHANCED CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT

Virtual tours, he said, offers an innovative and versatile way to explore and interact in both physical and virtual spaces. It offers access, convenience, and enhanced customer engagement, efficiency, and informed decision-making. This ranges from services in industries such as tourism and education, to those in real estate and marketing.

Importantly, Thomas highlighted that the virtual tour concept will soon surround creating a virtual tour room, which can be incorporated in classrooms.

Schools in Guyana, he said, can integrate virtual tours into their curriculums to enhance learning experiences. Students will also be able to access the diverse range of learning resources and will be exposed to a number of career opportunities.

Furthermore, with a showroom in place, real estate agencies in Guyana will be able to benefit from creating virtual showrooms for properties, art galleries, and museums can exhibit their artworks and artifacts, making them accessible to global audiences.

With the use of 360-cameras and Digital Single Lens Reflex, DSLR cameras, and a tripod, Virtual Estate 360 captures the stannic panoramic views by incorporating augmented

reality, and virtual reality technologies.

“These tours take persons on an interactive journey, additionally, the use of stitching software to stitch the 360-images together and a special software to generate the tours is used.”

With virtual reality headsets or something as simple as a smartphone, anyone can explore spaces from the comfort of their homes or venture out to guided virtual tours.

Thomas remarked that starting a virtual tour business can be both rewarding and challenging as it requires careful planning, execution and extensive market research.

“It is crucial to identify your niche, create a business plan, set up a professional online presence, choose the right tools and determine your pricing structure.”

These services are offered to clients that reach out for the virtual tour services. Thomas assured that while the cost is varying, it is still affordable, which all depends on the size of the space, and the number of images that must be taken.

Thomas added that while photos have their place in marketing, virtual tours provide a dynamic, interactive and immersive experience that enhances marketing for businesses. They offer a more realistic representation of a space and a personalized experience, and they provide a massive competitive advantage to set businesses apart.

To get in contact with Virtual Estate 360, persons can visit their website to see some of the work they have done, additionally, they can call +592 682-2413 or email them at atp@ackeemthomas.com.

Some of the work being done by Virtual Estate 360

Rose Hall seeing rapid growth

- says Mayor Budhu as town celebrates 53rd Anniversary

THE township of Rose Hall, Corentyne, Berbice celebrated its 53rd Anniversary on September 21 with an exhibition showcasing their products and services, and also with a ceremony highlighting its achievements under the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

tering social cohesion as we celebrate 53 in unity for a better community”, the mayor stated that Rose Hall is no longer a place where “It is a walk in the mud streets and roads anymore,” since they have upgraded and constructed new roads and internal streets in the town

Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Miguel Shaun ChooKang pointed out that the town cannot do it alone, and requires partnerships with all stakeholders, including councillors, residents and the business community to promote constant growth and

efficiently, promote local developments, and safeguard residents and visitors to your town. In an advanced technological world, be innovative and fully utilise technology to your ICT access to promote and enhance the landscape of Rose Hall Town,” Choo-Kang said.

In Closing, UNDP Resident Representative Yeşim Oruç spoke to the importance of partnerships for the continued development of the township.

The ceremony saw a large gathering of learners from nursery, primary and secondary schools along the Corentyne corridor, the business community and other invitees, including officials from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Local Government, and the Mayor of New Amsterdam.

Mayor Dave Budhu told the gathering that the town is growing at a pace that was never seen before. He highlighted that Rose Hall saw rapid development within recent times, and noted that a Government of Guyana $750M housing scheme to accommodate 200 families will soon be realised in Rose Hall/Williamsburg Town.

Budhu reported that the town has experienced growth in all sectors, such as health, business, security, housing, and infrastructure.

With the theme, “Fos -

for a smooth commute.

To observe the occasion, employees of the Solid Waste Management Department of the Rose Hall M&CC were awarded for their service, as well as residents for their out-

development.

“The vision of the town cannot be achieved in isolation, but requires the collaboration of elected councillors, residents and all invested stakeholders. Never neglect

standing contributions to the town, in addition to former workers of the M&CC.

In the feature address, Permanent Secretary of the

to serve the needs of your community as elected councillors. Never neglect to serve the needs of the people; manage your infrastructure

Mayor of Rose Hall Dave Budhu, and UNDP Resident Representative Yeşim Oruç

Seated at the head table are, from left, Mayor of New Amsterdam Wainwright McIntosh; UNDP Resident Representative Yeşim Oruç; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Miguel Shaun Choo-Kang; Mayor Budhu; and Divisional Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus

The anniversary cake

Innovative florist continues to expand services in the creative industry

By Faith Greene

GUYANA has a wide variety of creative professionals; from actors, writers, and directors, to web and graphic designers, photographers, fashion designers, dancers and singers/ songwriters.

Also included in this list are floral designers, more commonly called, florists. Those women (or men), arrange artificial or real flowers in ways that catch the eyes of wandering customers; and while

Guyana has many of them, none are anything like the other.

Shari Singh, the Chief Executive Officer of Florals by Shari, known as FBS, is a local business that is still growing. It offers a wide array of floral arrangements, gift baskets, floral décor and money bouquets. And the line continues to expand toward new products and services.

Singh said, “I am the youngest person in Guyana in my profession (floristry). My arrangements are

always done with a twist, I add butterflies, chocolates & even themed items to suit the occasion; For example, a mini graduation cap to a bouquet for a graduating student.”

Singh noted that FBS was established on Valentine’s Day, 2021. Because this was around the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, FBS was established so that Singh could have cared for her daughter who was born two years prior.

She said, “I decided to invest some money & start

something at home. Persons needed flowers for so many different occasions, it was perfect.”

Some services provided by Florals by Shari include: fresh & artificial flower arrangements, floral headbands, floral backdrops, floral frames, floral letters & number marquee, money bouquets chocolate bouquets, and finally, gift baskets for all occasions (valentine’s, Easter, Halloween, Christmas, etc.)

Among these services is small-scale event

planning. She explained, “Persons would often hire me to decorate hotel or apartment rooms for romantic occasions such as anniversaries, proposals, and I have worked with a business to plan & execute their brunch.”

Singh acknowledged that it was through the use of technology that she had access to learning new techniques & inspire new ideas on how to perfect her craft.

“From new wrapping methods, to what flowers to pair, how to maintain the freshness of flowers etc.”

She noted that social media has also played a role in her being able to register her business on Google.

“So, when someone goes there looking for florists, FBS will pop up. I also use Facebook & Instagram ads to reach more potential customers.”

Asked what advice she has for persons who may be interested in starting their own businesses, Singh said, “Put God first, allow him to give you your business idea and he will provide you with your customers. Develop your business plan. Do research on your market. Ensure you’re passionate about what you want to do, even

if you aren’t perfect at [it]; You can work on perfecting your craft.”

She emphasized that some businesses may start off slowly; however, remaining consistent, advertising as much as possible and networking with other business owners are the ways to go.

“Always be ‘business card ready.’ Always be prepared to pitch your business, and lastly, never underestimate the person you’re talking to about your business, you never know who is an undercover investor!” Singh added.

Singh also does giveaways as a way of giving back to her supporters, and as a form of encouragement for new supporters, and dedicates a percentage of her profits to charity.

Persons interested in utilizing the services offered by Florals by Shari can contact them on WhatsApp or call (+592)636-4829. Florals by Shari is also available on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok @FloralsbyShari. They are also located on the East Bank of Demerara.

Delivery services are available around Georgetown, to Linden & Berbice.

CEO of Florals by Shari, Shari Singh

OAS condemns Venezuela’s encroachment on Guyana’s sovereignty

ments”.

Following recent threatening statements emanating from Venezuela, the OAS called on the Spanish-speaking country to resolve the border controversy in accordance with international law and peace. The OAS also reiterated its unwavering support of Guyana’s sovereign right to execute its franchise on its established and appurtenant maritime area.

THE Organisation of American States (OAS) on Saturday issued a statement condemning Venezuela for

encroaching on Guyana’s “sovereignty and territorial rights through intimidatory and unfounded state-

The following is a statement issued by the OAS on the matter:

“On September 21, 2023,

the regime of Venezuela's "National Assembly" unanimously agreed to call a National Public Consultation "so that the people strengthen the defense" and "the inalienable rights of Venezuela" over the territorial dispute with Guyana. We condemn this improper use of a referendum because it is illegal according to the 1966 Geneva Agreement, and because similar misuses of this instrument have served as a pretext in the recent past to try to justify the worst actions between States, including the

crime of aggression.

“The General Secretariat of the Organisation of American States (OAS) reiterates that Venezuela and Guyana share the responsibility of resolving their dispute in the spirit of good neighbourliness, and in accordance with international law and the Geneva Agreement to seek peaceful solutions to the territorial dispute.

“Furthermore, the OAS General Secretariat continues to support the Co-operative Republic of Guyana's sovereign right to practise its fran-

chise on its established and appurtenant maritime area, in accordance with international law and the principles of the United Nations.

“The OAS General Secretariat objects to Venezuela's encroachment on Guyana's sovereignty and territorial rights through intimidatory and unfounded statements that fail to respect international conventions and the 1899 Arbitral Award, for which the latter is presently under judicial review at the International Court of Justice.”

14 entrepreneurs complete ‘ElevateAll’ programme

FOURTEEN entrepreneurs have completed the Centre for

Local Business Development’s ‘ElevateAll’ programme, designed

to enable the growth of small and medium-sized businesses

through tailored workshops, gap analysis, mentoring, pitch development, and fostering a strong and supportive peer-learning environment for businesses.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, speaking at the closing of the 10-week programme at the Pegasus Corporate Suites on Saturday, commended the facilitators and mentors for the execution of the innovative, intuitive workshop and professional mentoring to accelerate and empower small businesses.

“To the facilitators of the Centre for Local Business Development and the mentors, I say thank you…because many of our small businesses struggle and indeed some fail because they lack strong networks and support systems,” she said.

She said that the one-on-one mentoring, together with the programme’s creative supported peer learning environment will no doubt contribute substantially to the development of the participants.

The tourism minister said that these are im -

portant modules, since Guyana is at a point where there is growing investor confidence in the country and international businesses are looking for local businesses that are open for investment.

“Our businesses must be able to comprehensively articulate their business focus and value

propositions if they expect to engage in productive discourse with potential partners,” she said.

Minister Walrond related that the government’s strategic approach to small business development goes beyond this year in grants.

She explained that they

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Dr. Natasha Gaskin-Peters, Director of the Centre for Local Business Development; Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, Adrienne Galanek; UN Resident Coordinator, Yesim Oruc; and the 14 graduates of the ‘ElevateAll’ programme

Fay Gilgious-Greaves, owner of Jofa Products

14 entrepreneurs complete ...

are investing heavily in training to build the capacity of small businesses.

She noted that just a week ago, during a visit to Washington DC with President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in a meeting with the US Secretary of Commerce, talks began for US small and medium sized businesses to come help build capacity and bring mentorship to Guyana and to offer opportunities in partnership.

“The President raised this topic with the Secretary of Commerce, bringing and starting a programme where more small and medium sized US companies can come to give opportunities to our small businesses here. So, with that, there is the possibility of you getting partnerships with smaller businesses, but also learning and for that capacity building and training to come,” she said.

The tourism minister also noted that since assuming office in 2020, approximately 8,000 young entrepreneurs have been trained in business plan writing, marketing, financial management and app technology.

Dr. Natasha Gaskin-Peters, the Director of the Centre for Local Business Development, related that the centre’s capacity building programmes started in 2017, not only because of the oil and gas sector, but to ensure that there was inclusive business development in Guyana moving forward.

She said that the mandate of the centre is to build the capacity of all Guyanese businesses.

“We recognized that there was a need to have a programme that was collective in nature, that really targeted the folks that were outside of the oil and gas sector so this would have birthed the Accelerate-Her programme because we saw that there were a lot of

women entrepreneurs operating outside of the oil and gas sector,” she explained.

Through the Accelerate-Her programme, they have worked with over 70 women-owned businesses; however, recognising a gap in the manufacturing sector, they decided to pivot the programme to elevate all businesses.

“This allows us to target any niche in Guyana for which we see the need, because of course, the center’s focus is around where the gaps exist and how we can fill those gaps so that we could continue to build inclusive economic growth and not only focus on the oil and gas sector,” the Director said.

The Sunday Chronicle spoke to a few participants of the programme who said they were thankful to have been given the opportunity to participate.

Fay Gilgious-Greaves, owner of Jofa Products, a pepper-based business which produces sweet and hot peppers, said that the programme was

extremely beneficial.

“I really appreciate signing up because if I did not, I would not have known what was in store for me. Now that I have signed up, I really enjoyed the journey. Each step of the way was an energy for me. Renewed energy…” Greaves said.

Greaves added: “The budget programmes where recording and all of that was a challenge to me. I now better understand the concept and how to go about doing it. So definitely my finance would not be in jeopardy anymore because I know now to record and to follow along the way.”

The entrepreneur noted that other participants were a tower of strength because they worked together and she had a lot of support from the centre’s team.

Additionally, Gavin Agard, Managing Director of Green Line Products Enterprise Inc. said that the most important takeaway for him from the programme was building confidence in his brand and product, as well as the importance of financial management

and documentation within the business and the marketing of the product.

Green Line manufactures customized timber products including epoxy tables, epoxy doors and epoxy countertops.

The entrepreneur noted

that with the growing oil and gas industry in Guyana, he recognised the importance of connecting his business to the industry and saw the Center as an avenue to allow him to learn and understand the oil and gas sector.

“The programme has equipped me with all the necessary tools and confidence which is the most important part, to market and promote my product and promote my business in a whole,” Agard said.

Gavin Agard, Managing Director of Green Line Products Enterprise Inc.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond interacting with entrepreneurs

President Dr Irfaan Ali and First Lady, Mrs Arya Ali, on Saturday hosted State House. Dr Ali expressed gratitude to the team for its outstanding Montano also attended the brunch.

hosted the Guyana Amazon Warriors team and its management for brunch at performances during the tournament thus far. Soca sensation Machel brunch. (Office of the President photos)

Mayor of Mabaruma envisions improved services, cleaner, more developed township

By Michel Outridge

NEWLY elected Mayor of Mabaruma, Region One (Barima/Waini), Trevi Leung says his vision for the town is to improve the services the Council provides.

During an interview with the Sunday Chronicle, Leung explained that one of the issues they will be tackling

is garbage collection in order to have a cleaner town for the people and to maintain it at a certain standard.

As a first-time mayor, Leung knows the job comes with a lot of responsibilities and challenges but he is prepared to endure it since he would like to foster development in the community.

As a product of Mabaru-

ma, the mayor has high hopes for the town and would like to see the township develop so the people can benefit from the most basic necessities.

The father of four said he was a Technical Officer attached to the Ministry of Labour, Board of Industrial Training (BIT) department and he always enjoyed working with young people.

He also served the current administration via the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) group in Region One and he gained a lot of insight that prepared him for the position of Mayor.

“I realised that the town needs someone like me to incorporate fresh ideas and to realise visions for the people through community-level development,” he reasoned.

The 30-year-old is also willing to work with all stakeholders to improve the lives of the people and is hoping to implement ways to develop the region.

Leung added that he would like to see Mabaruma transform into one of the best towns in the country and he needs the cooperation of all.

The new Mayor related that the council’s primary goal is to be more active as it relates to revenue collection so the money garnered can be utilised for developmental projects in the township.

He explained that presently they only collect revenue from the market area alone and it is not sufficient since the $18M subvention annually has to filter down to 17 villages in seven constituencies, since a new constituency was added at the last Local Government Elections.

The Mabaruma Town Council has 14 councillors with 12 members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and two from a Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

increase significantly due to migrants from the neighbouring Venezuela.

Mayor Leung disclosed that the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council and the Mabaruma

the water storage and supply system and as for Mabaruma Township/Compound will see the grading and shaping of the internal roads.

The mayor added that at Barabina the Council will repair the catwalk bridge and at

He reported that the Council manages 17 villages and a few which is far-fetched are without electricity and potable water supply, including Smith Creek, Aruka River Mouth and Kariabo.

He related that most of the villages have access to the internet and the population has

Town Council constructed adequate housing facilities for the migrants, who are living in Mabaruma by the dozens.

He added that the government also assisted in setting up farms for the migrants to earn. On another note, the Council held its first statutory meeting on August 17 and a special meeting took place on August 29 to discuss the subvention work plan for the year.

As part of this year’s plan, Leung said they will construct three trestles and buy six black tanks for water storage at Smith Creek.

He added that at Thomas Hill/quarry/Khan Hill solar street lights will be sourced

Koberimo they will continue the construction of the main road.

Leung reported that at Kumaka they will repair the catwalk leading to the Amerindian Hostel and at Kumaka Strech the canals will be cleaned and desilted.

The Council will be building a tarmac for the green’s vendors at the Kumaka Market and those at the waterfront will be relocated to the market.

Mayor Leung stated that Hosororo will see the purchase of chainsaws and brush cutters and accessories. He noted that at Koriabo they will buy sewing machine with sewing materials and solar

and placed and at Silver Hill the catwalk will be repaired.

Leung disclosed that at Settlement Phase Two, the Council will construct a Community Centre building, install doors, windows and paint the building.

He related that at Aruka Mouth they will upgrade

street lights.

At Wanaina, the sanitary block will be ungraded, repairs to Greenpark, the purchase of solar street lights and garbage bins and at Wauna a bus shed will be constructed for that community.

Newly elected Mayor of Mabaruma, Trevi Leung

The first statutory meeting held by the Council

12 per cent surge in passenger arrivals recorded at CJIA

- for first 20 days of September compared to same period in 2022

THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has recorded a 12 per cent surge in passenger arrivals for the first 20 days of September compared to the same period last year.

This is according to Ramesh Ghir, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CJIA, who said that the Guyana Cricket Carnival has once again captivated the hearts of many, as a record number of visitors were processed at the airport.

“The airport, serving as the main gateway to this vibrant nation, has witnessed an impressive surge in passenger numbers, with a remarkable 12 per cent increase in arrivals for the first 20 days of September compared to the same period last year,” he said.

For the month of September alone, it is estimated that approximately 36,000 passengers will arrive at the airport, surpassing the previous record breaking arrivals in 2022.

“This tremendous influx of visitors is a testament to the overwhelming success of the Cricket Carnival, a remarkable event conceptualised by His Excellency President Mohamed Irfaan Ali,” he said.

Ghir added: “Thanks to the visionary leadership of President Ali, the Cricket Carnival has become a beacon of excitement, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the exhilarating atmosphere and festivities that Guyana has to offer. The

allure of this grand celebration has undoubtedly left a profound impact on those who have had the privilege of being a part of it.”

He said that as they continue to witness the remarkable growth of the Cricket Carnival, it is clear that Guyana has firmly established itself as a premier destination for cricket enthusiasts and festival-goers alike.

“The success of this event not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of Guyana but also highlights the warmth and hospitality of its people,” he related.

Ghir noted that the fun continued on Saturday evening with the super concert featuring internationally renowned artistes Sean Paul, Machel Montano and Shenseea and will continue with the much anticipated finals between Guyana Amazon Warriors and the Trinbago Knight Riders which will be played today in the evening at the National Stadium, Providence.

At the beginning of September, Ghir said that for the year 2023 so far, CJIA had seen an increase of 15 per cent in passengers travelling into Guyana when compared to last year’s statistics.

“So, to date, we have about 60,000 more passengers and based on the bookings and the projection, we are going to finish the year with close to maybe 70,000 or 80,000 more passengers than last year which is 15 per cent higher,” he explained.

Jaden Haripershad, 10, defies odds in pursuit of education

- Cerebral Palsy, club foot, and esotropia no match for his determination

JADEN Haripershad, a 10-year-old from Jacklow village in the Pomeroon River, has remarkable academic achievements that astound his parents despite facing significant medical challenges since birth.

Jaden is struggling

with cerebral palsy, club feet, and esotropia, which causes one eye to deviate inward towards the nose. Despite his medical condition, this young scholar's unstoppable determination and the unwavering support of the Suddie Public Hospital

rehabilitation centre has allowed him to live a life that surpasses expectations.

A sixth-grade student, Jaden is not only the top speller at his school but also consistently maintains straight-A grades.

His next milestone is

the National Grade Six Examinations (NGSA), set for next year, and his parents are confident that he will excel in this endeavor.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Haripershad explained that due to esotropia, he experiences partial vision and requires regular eye examinations. Jaden is the firstborn of Shelly Stephen and Jeetendra Haripershad.

Several years ago, he joined the Suddie Rehabilitation Centre with

tion has significantly improved. Jaden's newfound confidence is evident as he actively participates in

my son no longer has to undergo surgery, and he has improved. It gives me joy to see my son playing with other children and living a normal life. I am really happy that we continued the therapy.”

Jaden now enjoys socialising with his classmates, relishing dishes like chow mein, pancakes, and packaged sweets. He can be found playing in his school yard with his friends, a testament to his newfound physical abilities.

plans for surgery to address his medical conditions. However, thanks to consistent physical therapy, surgery is no longer necessary, and his condi-

his classes and engages with his peers.

Shelly Stephen, Jaden's mother, expressed her joy at her son's progress, saying, “I was very happy when I learned that

Donna Dean, a physical therapist at Suddie Public Hospital, emphasised the transformative role of their department in the lives of individuals like Jaden.

She noted that Jaden was initially referred to the department due to his club feet, but upon examination, it was discovered that he also struggled with poor head balance. Physical therapy sessions, marked by dedication and persistence, have made a significant difference in Jaden's life.

Dean encouraged parents not to keep children with developmental delays at home, highlighting that the centre provides free occupational, physical, speech, and language therapy services. These services are available at Suddie, Charity, and the Anna Regina Health Centre on Fridays. Jaden's journey serves as a shining example of resilience and the power of accessible rehabilitation services in transforming lives.

Jaden Haripershad

Jaden and his mother Shelly Stephen

Physical Therapist Donna Dean

‘Agri’ ministry establishes cassava germplasm in Region Nine

THE Ministry of Agriculture through its Agriculture Sector Development Unit (ASDU) is currently working with farmers from Sand Creek in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) to develop a cassava germplasm as part of its crop breeding, research, and con-

culture sector. As a result of the massive cassava shortage due to water damage following the flood, funding was sought to develop the cassava germplasm.

The ministry had also signed a contract with the Sand Creek Village Council valued at $4 million for the implementa-

ister Mustapha also handed over three heavy-duty tractors procured under the ministry’s Rural Agriculture Infrastructure Development Project (RAID) along with planting materials and other inputs to several villages in the region.

Three tractors with implements included a

servation efforts.

This initiative was conceptualised following several visits by President Irfaan Ali and Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha to the region during and after the 2021 floods. The Head of State had committed to working with communities to develop their food security strategies in a way that will make their food production both resilient and sustainable.

Cassava farmers in the region were adversely affected by the floods which destroyed almost 90% of the country’s agri-

tion of a cassava germplasm bank and the supply of farm tools support for farmers with funding provided by the Government of Guyana and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) under the Hinterland Environmentally Sustainable Agricultural Development Project (HESADP).

While the project is being executed in Sand Creek, surrounding villages in the region will also benefit from quality planting materials for cassava cultivation.

Last November, Min-

cassava planter, harrow, a disc plough, and a roam plough were also handed over for use in the region.

Farmers from the villages of Shulinab, Meriwau, Sand Creek, Awarenau, Mururanau, Rupanau, Katoonarib, Baitoon, Potarinau, Quiko, Parikwarinau, Aishalton, Shea, Taushida and Koshebai (South Pakaraimas) had benefited from breeding bulls and boars to improve their villages’ genetic material; cassava sticks; coconut seedlings; shade house materials; as well as an ATV.

Ongoing land development work on the cassava germplams in Region Nine

Officers attached to the ministry’s Region Nine department working to develop the cassava germplasm

- as part of government’s food security strategies aimed at making hinterland regions resilient

Ambitious Arawak youth organises team to provide indigenous services

PASSIONATE about his indigenous culture and heritage, Calvin Roberts, an Arawak youth with roots in the Pomeroon now residing on the West Coast Demerara, has launched a new service to aid his fellow Amerindian brothers and sisters to showcase their talents.

Roberts, a young go-getter with a passion for his indigenous roots, recently assembled a team of young creatives, including poets and dancers, to organise events.

The individuals on the team, all indigenous, from various villages across the country, are all set to be hired to organise and plan the cultural activities of any organization that may require their services.

Just a few days ago, the team, made up of about 25 persons, was hired by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to organise the ministry’s annual heritage extravaganza.

Roberts, Director, Coordinator, and owner of Calvin's Indigenous Cuisine, was ecstatic to plan an event held in the Ministry of Health compound, attended by subject Minister Dr. Frank Anthony.

Offering a full package that includes indigenous food and drink, he told this publication how his team was able to organize everything, including emcee-

ing the event, providing cultural items and hosting a fashion show.

Soon, Calvin and his team will be performing at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. “It’s about creating a platform for indigenous talent and culture that we are trying to sustain,” Calvin sustained. “I always believe in helping others and this is another avenue to provide a platform for my indigenous brothers and sisters; bringing them out and giving them exposure,” he continued.

As a young Indigenous entrepreneur, he wants to encourage his fellow indigenous brothers and sisters to be proud of their heritage, culture and identity. In a previous interview, he had pointed out how this makes it much easier for them to share with the world, whether it be through a dance, a poem, a song or even through Indigenous cuisine.

Calvin explained that one must love and appreciate his being and identity or it will be difficult for someone else to do so. He also urges other indigenous youths never to let anyone limit their potential. “We are educated, we have ambition and potential like any other ethnic group.”

Calvin Roberts (stooping) with his team

The team was recently hired by the Ministry of Health to organise the ministry’s annual heritage extravaganza

Calvin wants to create a platform for indigenous youths to showcase their talent and culture

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

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Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) SLK vs JT

(2) GAW vs TKR

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who was voted Man of the Match in the Eliminator game of CPL 2023?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Match in Qualifier #1?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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Hosts Sri Lanka to kick off 2024 Men's Under-19 World Cup on January 13 ..New 'Super Six' format unveiled by ICC for 16-team tournament

THE 2024 Men's U-19 World Cup will kick off with hosts Sri Lanka taking on Zimbabwe on January 13. Defending champions India will take on Bangladesh, to begin their campaign the following day.

The 41-match tournament will be played across 23 days in five venues, all in Colombo. The R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium will host the tournament opener, the semi-finals on January 30 and February 1, along with the final on February 4. The P Sara Oval, Colombo Cricket Club, Nondescripts Cricket Club, and the Sinhalese Sports Club are the other venues.

The top 11 Full Member sides from the 2022 edition have qualified directly, and five teams - Namibia, Nepal, New Zealand, Scotland, and USA - have earned their spots through regional qualification events

Line-up for 2024

Group A: India, Bangladesh, Ireland, USA.

Group B: England, SA, WI, Scotland.

Group C: Australia, SL, Zimbabwe, Namibia.

Group D: Afghanistan, Pakistan, NZ, Nepal.

"We are thrilled to see the competition return to Sri Lanka for the first time since 2006," Chris Tetley, ICC Head of Events, said in a release. "Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson and Angelo Mathews are some of the names that made their entrance onto the

world stage at this event, and we are certain to see this tradition continue as the drama unfolds."

"Sri Lanka is renowned for its passionate, cricket-loving fans," Samantha Dodanwela, Tournament Director, said, "and we are looking forward to giving them the opportunity to watch some of the most promising young cricketers in the world over 23 days of competition."

New 'Super Six' format for 2024

The ICC has also announced a fresh format. While the 16 teams will initially be grouped into four groups of four, there will be 12 teams qualifying into the second round, instead of the eight previously. The Super Six stage will feature two groups of six teams each, with the top four progressing to the semi-finals.

Earlier, the second round consisted of the top eight teams moving into the Super League - a knock-out format for the World Cup title - while the bottom eight went into knockouts for the Plate trophy.

Each team will play two warm-up matches between January 7 and 11 across four venues. India, with five titles, are the most successful team in the competition's history, followed by Australia with three. Pakistan have won twice and each of England, Bangladesh, South Africa, and West Indies have lifted the crown once.

(Cricinfo)

India won the 2022 edition • Michael Steele/ICC/Getty Images

South Africa 8-13 Ireland: Irish deliver statement World Cup win over holders in Paris

IRELAND remain in pole position to top Pool B after they beat holders South Africa in a low-scoring but riveting World Cup slugfest in Paris.

With Ireland struggling, Manie Libbok's penalty edged South Africa ahead in the first half before Mack Hansen's try.

Cheslin Kolbe hit back for the Boks but after Libbok failed to convert, Johnny Sexton's penalty put Ireland ahead.

In a nail-biting finish, Ireland's defence absorbed pressure before Jack Crowley's penalty sealed an Irish win.

At the end of a brutal and relentless Test battle, South Africa pushed for a match-winning try, but after being repelled by a heroic defensive effort from the world's number one side, the Irish contingent in the 78,452 Stade de France crowd greeted a famous win with thunderous acclaim.

It is Ireland's 16th straight Test win and a major boost to their World Cup hopes having fronted up to a ferocious South African side to put themselves on the cusp of another quarter-final place.

Having beaten Scotland and Romania, South Africa

remain on course to reach the last eight but this was their first defeat in nine World Cup matches and they must now regroup after being bested by one of their biggest rivals in a titanic heavyweight dust-up. But the Springboks will rue their missed chances on a night when their unreliable goal-kicking prevented them from turning momentum in their favour.

Ireland edge first half despite early errors

This had been widely touted as the most anticipated match of the pool stage, pitting the world's top two sides in a fascinating clash of styles: the speed and ruthlessness of the Irish attack against a mighty, parsimonious South African defence

that shipped just three points in their opening two games.

While Ireland won 19-16 when the sides met in Dublin last year, it is well known that South Africa are a different beast at rugby's global showpiece.

Boks backs coach Mzwandile Stick had said on the eve of the match that "World Cups are a different story", and during a first half in which Ireland made a series of uncharacteristic errors, his words appeared prophetic.

Indeed, while both sides displayed early nerves, it was South Africa who benefited from a creaking Irish lineout, with Libbok's penalty coming at the end of a move sparked by one of several Ronan Kelleher throws that missed its target.

Despite being roared on by raucous Irish support, the Grand Slam winners seemed out of sorts, the Springbok confidence growing with every ferocious hit on a green jersey and Ireland frustration deepening with every failed attempt to break the threetime champions.

While the brute of South Africa's defence clearly unnerved their rivals, Ireland weathered the storm before momentum dramatically swung seven minutes before the interval when a brilliant carry from the in-form Bundee Aki, who won his 50th cap.

Aki, who earlier landed a crucial tackle on Jesse Kriel, showed pace and power to drive his side up the pitch. This time, Ireland stayed patient and moved the ball smartly before a thunderous roar greeted Hansen touching down - although he came close to the deadball lineafter Sexton had come within inches of scoring a superb try of his own.

The veteran fly-half nailed the conversion to put Ireland 7-3 up with the returning feelgood factor helped by Garry Ringrose's return after passing a head injury assessment (HIA).

Kane scores hat-trick as Bayern thrash Bochum

ENGLAND captain Harry Kane scored a hat-trick and assisted twice as Bayern Munich extended their unbeaten start to the Bundesliga season.

Kane reacted quickly to smash home a loose ball in the Bochum box in the first half before converting a penalty after the break.

He secured the match ball by turning home a pass from Noussair Mazraoui in the 88th minute.

Kane delivered precise passes to set up Leroy Sane and teenager Mathys Tel.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Matthijs de Ligt also scored for the Bavarians.

Kane, whose goal on Wednesday helped Bayern to a 4-3 Champions League victory over Manchester United, has netted seven in his first five Bundesliga

Barbados, Bermuda register wins in Concacaf League B

matches.

The haul on Saturday was his first domestic league hat-trick since December 2017, when he scored consecutive trebles for Tottenham against Burnley and

Southampton.

Thomas Tuchel's Bayern now have four wins and one draw after their opening five games and top the table with 13 points.

Bochum, who were

pulled apart whenever Bayern went forwards and thoroughly outclassed, continue to look for their first victory of the campaign.(BBC Sport).

THE Road to the Concacaf Women’s Gold Cup continued with two League B encounters on Friday. Bermuda and Barbados started the tournament with three-point performances at home.

Barbados takes the top of Group C on goal difference given their larger margin of victory, while Bermuda starts in position to challenge for first place. The Dominican Republic and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will look to avenge their defeats with a home match next week.

Bermuda vs Dominican Republic

Bermuda opened their campaign with a 2-0 home win over the Dominican Republic at the National Sports Centre in Devonshire Parish, Bermuda.

Jaden Masters opened the scoring in the 10th with a rocket from long range to send the home fans into ecstasy. This came just seconds after the Lady Warriors were close to taking the lead on an attempt from Eva Frazzoni going just wide.

Winibian Peralta attempted to equalize in the 20th from a free kick but the attempt was caught by goalkeeper Zakhari Turner.

Lucia Marte provided a dangerous hit across goal in the 32th as the Dominican Republic continued to search for the tying goal.

Masters earned her brace in the 45+1 on a Bermuda fast break, slipping the ball past goalkeeper Odaliana Gomez just outside the edge of the box.

Masters nearly completed her hat-trick in the 55th but Gomez made a big stop to keep the score within reach.

Turner ended the day with seven saves as she collected her first clean sheet of the tournament and Bermuda its first three points.

Barbados vs Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Barbados won 5-0 over Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to start its campaign at the Wildey Turf Stadium in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Shanice Stevenson opened the scoring in the 10th from a free kick chance. Goalkeeper Altica Benn tried to stop the attempt but the potent was too much to contain.

Rianna Cyrus extended the lead in the 19th with some nifty footwork inside the box to convert on a delivery from Shauntae Hinds.

Cyrus extended the lead again in the 22th by evading the keeper and hitting a precise ball outside the right side of the goal area. Stevenson provided the through ball into the box.(Sportsax)

Prior to the halftime whistle, at 45+2, Cyrus completed her hat-trick off a free kick service from Stevenson.

Cheyanna Burnett-Griffith scored a fifth for Barbados in the 75th with a strike off the bouncing ball. Keinelle Johnson provided the cross from the left flank to find Burnett-Griffith inside the area.

The defence provided a strong outing in its home opener by holding Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to zero shots on target. Kamilla Burke made an important save outside the box during the closing minutes to preserve the clean sheet.

Mack Hansen, who scored against the Springboks in Dublin last year, touched down the first try of the game

Barbados players celebrate a goal

Nobody other than Harry Kane, who has 7, has scored more than five times in their first five Bundesliga games for Bayern Munich

Kares Crossfit October Showdown

...Uniting Athletes from Guyana and beyond

KARES Crossfit is thrilled to announce the Kares Crossfit October Showdown, scheduled to take place on October 15th at the prestigious Aquatic Centre and National Park. This event promises to be an exhilarating showcase of fitness, strength, and determination, featuring athletes from Guyana and from across the Region, all vying for a chance to claim over 4 million dollars in cash and prizes.

The Kares Crossfit October Showdown will feature multiple exciting competitions:

• Individual Scaled Crossfit Competition: watch as athletes push their limits in this challenging test of endurance, strength, and agility.

• Team Competition: teams will unite in their quest for victory, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and athleticism.

• Strongman Competition: prepare to be amazed as competitors take on incred-

ible feats of strength in this thrilling contest. But that's not all. Spectators are in for a treat with crowd-participation events, where they can join in the excitement and win fantastic prizes generously provided by our sponsors.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors, whose support makes this event possible: Assuria Insurance, AnsaMcAl, Digicel, Farm Supply, GuyTrac, Builders Lumber Yard, YellowMines, Fitness Express, Lotus Hard-

Sue Redfern to become first female umpire in County Championship

SUE Redfern is to become the first female umpire to stand in a men's first-class match in England and Wales.

Redfern will umpire Glamorgan's County Championship match against Derbyshire at Sophia Gardens, starting on Tuesday.

ware, Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Mix 90.1 FM and Babe Cave.

The Kares Crossfit October Showdown is anticipated to be a day filled with thrilling competition, community spirit, and incredible prizes.

Fernandes stunner helps Man. United to win at Burnley

BRUNO Fernandes' stunning volley gave Manchester United a much-needed victory as they edged past winless Burnley in the Premier League.

United were in desperate search for inspiration following three straight defeats and received it on 45 minutes courtesy of captain Fernandes, who brilliantly volleyed home a first-time finish from Jonny Evans' lofted pass.

The sublime strike was worthy of winning any game and gave United their third win from six league games this season, leaving Vincent Kompany's side bottom of the table with only a point so far.

Burnley played some delightful football in periods and Zeki Amdouni gave the visitors a scare with a free header that was pushed away by Andre Onana at full stretch.

The Burnley frontman had an even better chance when he was played through by Aaron Ramsey, but a low shot cannoned off the foot of the post.

Evans thought he had given United the lead when he headed in a corner, but the effort was ruled out by

the video assistant referee (VAR) for Rasmus Hojlund's block on goalkeeper James Trafford.

Burnley went hunting for an equaliser in the second period and Sander Berge narrowly headed over as United held on for victory.

Fernandes comes to the

fore United had shipped three or more goals in each of their three consecutive defeats against Arsenal, Brighton and Bayern Munich, and they badly required a positive result to get their faltering season back on track.

Marcus Rashford's effort

Capped 21 times by England in the 1990s, Redfern has since become a trailblazing figure for female umpires.

"It has been an ambition of mine for a long time and, while it is a new challenge that will test me, I know that I am ready for it," she said.

"I have worked hard to earn this opportunity and I look forward to taking the next step in my career. I hope my journey can also be an inspiration to others."

Cardiff is also where Redfern made history two years ago by becoming the first female umpire to officiate in a home England men's match, when she was the fourth umpire in a T20 against Sri Lanka.

Earlier this summer, she became the first female to umpire in a T20 Blast match when she officiated the game between Gloucestershire and Middlesex.

Redfern has also umpired at global tournaments including the 2022 Commonwealth Games, three ICC Women's T20 World Cups and two ICC Women's World Cups.

She was named in the Professional Umpires' Team last year, enabling her to umpire in first-class cricket in England.(BBC Sport)

into the side-netting after just 45 seconds may have given indications that this was a side rejuvenated, but it was another largely insipid and lethargic showing from the Red Devils.

Burnley grew into the game after Rashford's early opportunity and will be left wondering about the outcome had Amdouni converted either of the chances that fell his way in the first half.

Under-fire goalkeeper Onana did superbly to keep out a header from the Swiss striker, who also struck the woodwork after a fine team move.

The hosts were playing some eye-catching football but were undone by a moment of magic from Portu-

guese midfielder Fernandes on the stroke of half-time.

Defender Evans, who rejoined the club this summer, was making his first United start since March 2015 and had headed in, but the goal was chalked off by VAR.

The Northern Ireland international was part of the Leicester side that finished in the bottom three last season and Burnley will be looking to avoid the same fate this time.

They have lost all four home games so far this season and it took them nine matches for their first victory in 2021-22 - a campaign which ended in relegation to the Championship.(BBC Sport)

Athletes who competed at the April edition

Sue Redfern was an umpire in the Women's Ashes Test between England and Australia this summer

Bruno Fernandes scored his first away goal in the league since January

CWI looking to Region’s ‘vast experience’ for successful World Cup

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, Sep 22, CMC – Cricket West Indies is confident that the Region will lean on its “huge experience” and deliver a successful event when it plays host to next year’s men’s ICC Twenty20 World Cup.

Speaking in the wake of the International Cricket Council’s announcement of the venues for the June 4-30 showpiece, CWI chief executive Johnny Grave said there were existing partnerships with stakeholders which would be leveraged in order to ensure a smooth roll-out of the tournament.

“The West Indies have got huge experience in hosting ICC events,” Grave said.

“We’re currently hosting the Caribbean Premier League which has been another successful tournament in the West Indies.

“We have very experienced operators throughout the Region who we work with and partner with, and all the stakeholders will be ready to welcome the world and stage this iconic ICCC event.

“We’re all tremendously excited by the opportunity and the platform that it gives our Region to promote itself to the world for tourism, for economic development, as well as hopefully to give our men’s team a huge home advantage in go-

ing for a record third title.”

Seven countries –Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Dominica, St Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines – will serve as host venues.

Key to the successful bids by these countries was the involvement of the respective host governments, and Grave said this level of collaboration would lead to enhanced cricket development in these territories.

“We are enormously grateful for the continued support we get from the governments of the West Indies,” he stressed.

“All of them that put forward bids have been successful in securing matches, which is great news, and we’re really looking forward to some of the improvements that those governments have put forward in their proposals to us and the ICC, in terms of ensuring they are ready for what is the pinnacle of the men’s game currently, in terms of international top cricket.

“It is a huge opportunity for the Region to use the platform of hundreds of millions of fans watching the West Indies, watching our beautiful countries and our iconic venues, and we want everyone in the world to come to the Caribbean and ex-

perience what we have to offer.”

The tournament will be the third men’s ICC event being played in the Region. In 2007, the Caribbean staged the men’s 2007 World Cup before also putting on the men’s T20 World Cup three years later.

In 2018, the Region also welcomed the women’s T20 World Cup and last year played host to the men’s ICC Under-19 World Cup.

Grave, who joined CWI in 2017, pointed out that ICC tournaments staged in the Caribbean went beyond simply cricket, but also provided the ideal platform for the global showcasing of the Region’s culture.

“We have seen that unique carnival atmosphere when we hosted the 2018 women’s World T20, where there

were big crowds in St Lucia and Antigua when the West Indies played,” he said.

“And I’m sure when West Indies play next June there’ll be big crowds at all the venues at which they play.

“We want every host country to show what a welcoming and exciting place this is to watch and play cricket, and it’s really important that all the fans come out in their masses.

“The schoolchildren will be invited as part of our community-engagement programme so we can show what that carnival cricket atmosphere is to the world.”

West Indies will host the tournament in conjunction with the United States, with Dallas, Fort Lauderdale and New York set to host matches on the North American leg.

Former BAAA President Alpheus Finlayson passes away at 76

VETERAN sports advocate, broadcaster and former BAAA (Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations) president Alpheus Finlayson has died, aged 76, just weeks after the death of his wife, Dawn.

Finlayson served as co-captain of the St John’s University Track Team, President of the Pioneer’s Sporting Club, and of the Bahamas Amateur Athletic Association from 1989 to 1997.

He was also elected Vice President of the Central American Central American and Caribbean Athletic Confederation, as well as Vice President of the North American, Central American, and Caribbean Area Athletic Associations.

It was during Finlayson’s administration of the Bahamas Amateur Athletic Association in 1992 that the first Bahamian Olympic medal in Track & Field was won,

and in 1995 and 1997 the first three World Championship medals were won.

Finlayson, affectionately nicknamed “Hawk,” made history when he became the first Bahamian elected to the 27-member Council of the IAAF, the World governing body of Track & Field.

He also held the distinction of being the only Bahamian to attend every IAAF World Championships, from Helsinki in 1983 to London in 2017.

His book From Vancouver to Athens: Finlayson Fifty Years of

Bahamian International Track & Field Competition, is a best-seller.

Finlayson also authored weekly columns on “Track World” from 1980 to 1986 in The Tribune and produced a television show on ZNS called Track World with Alpheus Finlayson. Finlayson also wrote international newsletters with the same name.

He also hosted the weekly radio show called Track World with Alpheus Finlayson on Guardian Radio 96.9 FM. (Sportsmax).

Finlayson seated next to his late wife Dawn Finlayson in happier times

Cricket West Indies chief executive Johnny Grave

Systems in place for Prime Minister’s T20 three-day softball extravaganza

By Frederick Halley

FRESH off the completion of the 11th edition of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) tournament, which will climax today at the Guyana National Stadium, the seventh edition of the Prime Minister’s T20 Softball tournament, organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL), in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport, bowls off on Friday at various venues around Georgetown and the East Coast.

According to the organisers, all systems are in place for the staging of the threeday softball extravaganza which culminates at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown, next Sunday.

Some 34 teams, including eight women teams, will be vying for supremacy when the action bowls off with prize monies topping over three million dollars.

The women will however be in action on Thursday when the two finalists will be decided following the knockout round at the Lusignan Community Centre ground.

As in the past few years, the Over-50 Legends category which has been dominated by Regal Legends in and out of Guyana, has attracted most attention once more and will see 12 teams battling for the top prize of one million dollar.

Among the teams vying to topple the defending champions are last year’s run -

ners-up New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) who blew a great opportunity at the Guyana National Stadium last year when they had Regal Legends in a precarious position.

Seemingly dead and buried at 104 for 8 in the 16th over, Regal legends were rescued by a stunning 45-run partnership between Rudolph Baker and skipper Mahendra “Anil” Hardyal, rallying to defend the title with a thrilling two-wicket victory over the previously unbeaten NYSCL.

Set 147 for victory after restricting NYSCL Legends to 146 for seven in 20 overs, Regal Legends achieved the target with four balls to spare.

Regal Legends continued their winning ways in Orlando and in New York this year, with the former being quite special for the Guyanese contingent since it ensured they had claimed titles in all the competing leagues.

The champions are undaunted by the loss of the experienced Eric Thomas who was involved in a road accident recently but is confi-

dent they can achieve victory despite his absence. Another stalwart, Wayne Jones, was also absent from the team that participated in New York in July and Regal Legends won handsomely.

Apart from NYSCL, stiff opposition is expected from Toronto Blizzards who reached the final of the NYSCL tournament but were recently dethroned by Pegasus Storm in the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) Over-50 final. The latter is also aiming to create an impression in their first

overseas sojourn.

A fierce battle is expected to ensue in the Open All Stars category with the star-studded Knight Riders Ariel All Stars aiming to win their third consecutive title in as many years.

After whipping Regal All Stars in 2021, they made light work of Name Brand in last year’s final with skipper Brian Mangar blasting a superb 94

The slimly built Mangar tore the Name Brand attack to threads with an innings

that belies his stature, blasting six fours and eight sixes off a mere 43 balls as his side made absolute mockery of the 143 for five made by Name Brand in their allotted 20 overs, reaching the target in 13.3 overs, losing two wickets in the process.

Regal All Stars will counter with the hard-hitting left-hander Sachin Singh who scored a magnificent century in the NYSCL final to lead the home team to a lopsided win over Orlando and Greg Singh among others.

Regal Masters will also be aiming to defend the Over40 title which will see six teams vying for superiority, including last year’s finalists Ariel.

The winners in the Open All Stars and Masters Over40 will cart off a hefty prize of $600,000 each while the runners-up will receive $50,000. The women’s category will see the winners taking home $300 000 and the runners-up $25,000. Players of the final in all four categories will be recipients of trophies while the player of the series in the Open and Masters categories will collect 50-inch flat screen TVs. The player of the series in the women’s division will get a 32-inch TV.

Apart from DCC, where the finals will culminate under light, other venues slated to be used include MYO, Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO), Police Sports Club, Queen’s College, Lusignan Sports Club and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Reggae Girlz lose first leg of playoff against Canada

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Jamaica Women endured a setback to their quest for a place in the 2024 Olympic Games when reigning champions Canada Women inflicted a heart-breaking 2-0 defeat in the first leg of their Concacaf playoff.

The Jamaicans created several chances, but they were unable to finish off their good work, and the Ca-

nadians remained steadfast at the back in the contest at the National Stadium to significantly enhance their chances of taking the final spot in Paris next year and automatically qualify for the Concacaf W Gold Cup.

The Reggae Girls, as the hosts are known, fell behind in the 18th minute when Nichelle Prince headed home her 14th international goal for the Reds, and fellow

striker Adriana Leon scored in second-half stoppage time to put a seal on the win.

Jamaica goalkeeper Rebecca Spencer had no answer when Prince rose to connect with the ball and put it in the bottom left corner after a great cross from defender Ashley Lawrence.

Reggae Girlz forward Cheyna Matthews came close in the 34th minute when she nearly made the

most of a loose ball, only to see Canadian defender Vanessa Gilles block her shot blocked.

Jamaica captain Khadija Shaw was called upon to clear the ball in the dying minutes of the first half when Canadian striker Adriana Leon, playing her 100th international, almost scored from a corner kick, but her shot hit the post.

The home team contin-

ued to chase an equaliser, but this opened up room on the field for the Canadians, and Spencer denied Leon again in the 57th minute to keep the match in the balance.

Another chance for Jamaica came in the 79th minute from a corner kick, with Shaw ready to win the ball in the air, but Canadian goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan blocked her headed attempt.

After defending stoutly

for the entire match, the Reggae Girlz finally broke down in the closing stages, and Leon finally found a way past Spencer in the third minute of stoppage time, firing in a volley off a cross from defender Gabrielle Carle.

The second and final leg of the qualifier will be played on Tuesday at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada.

Flashback: The victorious Regal Legends players following their triumph last year

CPL Finale expected to be sizzling hot

Can five-time bridesmaids Warriors be the bride tonight? Or will TKR take fifth CPL trophy?

By Sean Devers

TONIGHT will be the moment of truth when arch rivals Trinbago Knight Riders and the Guyana Amazon Warriors face off at the Providence Stadium for the Republic Bank CPL trophy.

TKR’s head-to-head record is 11-9, although the Warriors won the most matches while TKR has four titles and have never lost in a final.

The Warriors have attended five finals and were always the bridesmaid but has never been the bride.

A capacity crowd mostly of Warriors’ supporters from the diaspora will be at the battle ground tonight from 7pm to urge their team to a maiden title over their “Trini” counterparts whose fans have come from the twin-island republic and North America.

The rivalry between the Region’s two most powerful teams dates back to 2006 when Narsingh Deonarine deposited T&T’ Samuel Badree for the US $Millon six in Antigua with five needed from two balls.

Guyana’s only other T20 title was at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad in the 2010 West Indies T20 Championship when they beat

Barbados to qualify for the Champions League in South Africa.

Guyana had beaten T&T in the semi-final to leave a jam-packed QPO in funereal mood.

Now 13 years later Keiron Pollard, Sunil Narine and Dwayne Bravo are the surviving members of that in an ageing TKR.

The Warriors on the other hand, despite skipper Imran Tahir being the oldest player in the tournament at 44, is a young team playing brilliantly.

But with Andrew Russel, Bravo, Pollard and Narine in the TKR squad there is no substitute for experience, while with young guns Nicholas Pooran, Mark Deyal and Keacy Carty in the mix, there is a good blend of youth and expeience.

Another experienced campaigner is Chadwick Walton, who hit a stunning unbeaten 80 in the playoffs against the Warriors

While Martin Guptill is injured, skipper Pollard said at yesterday’s media update at the Pegasus Suites that everyone else is available, including Narine.

`TKR’s win against the Warriors took them directly to the final while the Warriors beat defending champions Jamaica Tallawahs to get

to tonight’s heavyweight bout.

It can be debated whether having a break makes TKR fresher or playing another game would have given the Warriors more match practice heading into tonight’s feature event which could not be scripted better from a commercial perspective.

With TKR and Warriors in tonight’s final everyone will win except one of the teams on the

top and they could ask Shimron Hetmyer, who has had a poor tournament so far or fast bowling all-rounder Romario Shepherd, to open the batting.

Hope could bat at three, Azam Khan, Hetmyer, Dwaine Pretorius, Gudakesh Motie, Junior Sinclair, Ronsford Beaton and Tahir in that order.

Pollard said he was happy with the pitches in Guyana which he felt were good for batting and bowling, and the team that wins the toss would want to field first because of the dew factor, especially with their spinners.

Guyana’s bowling could be spearheaded by Beaton, who regularly clocked ‘140’, Shepherd and Pretorius, while Tahir, who continues to befuddle batters, Motie and Sinclair could utilize any turn from the pitch

said Pollard “I don’t think we are playing any psychological games. We worry about what TKR have to worry about, so I don’t know what they are thinking about. What I know… it’s another game of cricket and we plan to play good cricket and at the end of day, we will see what happens.”

The TKR skipper said his team is expecting a capacity crowd, most of whom will be supporting the home team and encouraged them to come and be loud and put on a show for the world to see and have a good final.

“We are preparing for a good game and it would be nice if we can lift a fifth trophy …it might be unfortunate for the opposition, which I see right now it does not have an opposition.

field.

Tahir admitted at the media update that the opening pair and finding a partner for Saim Ayub is still a worry.

Ayub and Shai Hope are the only two batters with 400 runs, but both are cautious starters and T20 cricket has evolved where teams score over 70 runs in the six power-play overs.

Guyana used six batters to partner the 22-year-old Ayub at the

Meanwhile, Pollard noted that last year TKR did not have a great season.

“Being able to get to the final now is a big feat for all of our supporters and let’s see what happens tomorrow.

“I am happy with [the] Providence track, it was a good pitch: runs were scored and wickets were taken and crowds came in their numbers and saw good cricket,”

“Guyana has been playing good cricket; they have a brilliant young team which could be a long time together and reaping success, but at the end of the day we want to ensure that the trophy is won by TKR,” Pollard informed.

Tahir said that Kemo Paul is a valuable asset to the side and the Warriors will know if he has sufficiently recovered from his injury and is available by this afternoon.

At yesterday’s “presser” at Pegasus Suites, the two captains with the CPL Trophy. Who will lift it tonight?.Will it be TKR captain Keiron Pollard (left) or Amazon Warriors Imran Tahir?