Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 24-10-2023

TUESDAY 24th October, 2023

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VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107243

More resources needed from regional banks to achieve food security targets 13 PAGE

Guyana rejects Venezuela’s attempts to undermine its territorial integrity –– draws international community’s attention to further actions of the Government of Venezuela, which could incite violence, threaten peace, security

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Infrastructural advancement continues President Ali welcomes – several critical projects progressing well 12 new U.S. Ambassador 08 PAGE

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–– underscores Guyana’s vision, strengthening U.S. co-operation

President Dr Irfaan Ali accepting the letters of credence from the new U.S. Ambassador, Nicole D Theriot (Office of the President photo)

Chevron taps into lucrative Guyana oil 02 resources with Hess deal PAGE

–– company’s CEO commits to partnering with authorities to create shared prosperity, value for the nation and its people

Single mother of six reaches Leonora Secondary School new heights as contractor gets new $75M dormitory –– praises gov’t for opportunity to grow, improve life

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––Stewartville Secondary equipped with state-of-the-art smart classroom

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Chevron taps into lucrative Guyana oil resources with Hess deal

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

–– company’s CEO commits to partnering with authorities to create shared prosperity, value for the nation and its people

IN a strategic move, Chevron Corporation, on Monday, agreed to buy outstanding shares of Hess Corporation in a landmark all-stock transaction valued at US$53 billion.

According to a statement from Chevron, the acquisition marks a significant upgrade and diversification of company’s portfolio and includes Hess’ holdings in the Stabroek Block in Guyana; this is considered as an asset of immense value characterised by industry-leading

cash margins and low carbon intensity.

This acquisition is set to position Chevron for substantial production growth in the coming decade.

Hess’ Bakken assets add another leading U.S. shale position to Chevron’s Denver-Julesburg (DJ) and Permian basin operations and further strengthen domestic energy security.

The combined company is expected to grow production and free cash flow faster and for longer than Chev-

CEO of Hess Corp., John Hess ron’s current five-year guidance. In addition, John Hess is expected to join Chevron’s Board of Directors.

Chevron’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mike Wirth, during the announcement, on Monday, said that Chevron intends “to continue partnering with the Government of Guyana to create shared prosperity and value for the country and its people.”

Hess’ share of net production is approximately 110 thousand barrels per day at industry-leading cash margins with low carbon intensity, a winning combination. And that’s just from the first two FPSOs, with three more currently under development (Source: Chevron)

Mike Wirth, Chairman of Chevron Corp.

He added: “This combination positions Chevron to strengthen our long-term performance and further enhance our advantaged portfolio by adding world-class assets.”

Wirth underscored the alignment in values and cultures between the two companies, emphasising their shared focus on safety, integrity, community contributions, and financial performance.

Meanwhile, Chevron’s Chief Financial Officer, Pierre Breber, said that the

addition of Hess is expected to further extend the company’s cash flow growth.

“With greater confidence in projected long-term cash generation, Chevron intends to return more cash to shareholders with higher dividend per share growth and higher share repurchases,” he said.

Hess said that the strategic combination brings together two strong companies to create a premier integrated energy company, which he is proud of.

“I believe our strategic combination creates a company that is stronger in every respect, with the leadership, asset portfolio and financial resources to lead us through the energy transition and deliver significant shareholder value for years to come,” Hess said.

But what does this mean for Guyana? According to Chevron, the acquisition offers a strong strategic fit for the company, granting the company 30 percent ownership in the Stabroek Block, which represents more than 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

This move promises high cash margins, robust produc-

tion growth, and potential exploration opportunities. The transaction is also anticipated to boost Chevron’s cash flow per share in 2025, driven by synergies and the start-up of a fourth floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel in Guyana.

As a result, Chevron’s estimated five-year production and free cash flow growth rates will experience a positive upswing.

Enhanced shareholder returns are also on the horizon, with Chevron set to recommend an eight percent increase in its first-quarter dividend per share, raising it to US$1.63 in January.

After the deal’s completion, Chevron will further bolster shareholder value by increasing share repurchases

by US$2.5 billion, reaching the upper end of its guidance range.

In terms of capital efficiency, the combined company will operate with a capital expenditures budget of US$19 billion to US$22 billion and is expected to generate US$10 to US$15 billion in before-tax proceeds through 2028 by selling assets.

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Guyana rejects Venezuela’s attempts to undermine its territorial integrity

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

–– draws international community’s attention to further actions of the Government of Venezuela, which could incite violence, threaten peace, security

The following is the full statement by the Government of Guyana: “THE Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana has taken careful note of the issuance by the National Electoral Council of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela of five questions to be asked in the national referendum scheduled for December 3, 2023.

Among other questions, all of which are intended to further Venezuela’s unlawful and unfounded claim to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s national territory, question five is the most pernicious: it brazenly seeks the approval of the Venezuelan people of the creation of a new Venezuelan State consisting of Guyana’s Essequibo region, which would

be incorporated into the national territory of Venezuela, and the granting of Venezuelan citizenship to the population.

This amounts to nothing less than the annexation of Guyana’s territory, in blatant violation of the most fundamental rules of the UN Charter, the OAS Charter and general international law. Such a seizure of Guyana’s territory would constitute the international crime of aggression.

The Government of Guyana categorically rejects any attempt to undermine the territorial integrity of the sovereign State of Guyana.

The government finds abhorrent that the Essequibo region which forms part of

the territory of Guyana in accordance with the 1899 Arbitral Award that demarcated the boundaries of the

states of Venezuela and then British Guiana, should be “created” into a state within Venezuela.

Further, the government rejects the internationally unlawful act to put forward the “granting of citizenship and Venezuelan identity cards in accordance with the Geneva Agreement and international law.”

It is by way of the Geneva Agreement and the principles of international law that the question of the validity of the Arbitral Award of 1899 has been put before the International Court of Justice.

That Court has ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear this case. Guyana has repeatedly encouraged Venezuela to participate in the case.

The people of Guyana remain resolute against any

threats to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of their country.

Neither the government nor the people of one country have the right in international law to seize, annexe or take the territory of another country. International law emphatically prohibits this.

The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana calls the attention of the international community to the actions being carried out by the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which have the potential to incite violence and to threaten the peace and security of the state of Guyana and by extension the Caribbean Region.”

‘Answer the call to action’ –– PM tells stakeholders ahead of important water conference

CLIMATE change continues to be a pertinent issue for all, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips maintained, as he called for the Caribbean to unite to address issues of this nature before it is too late.

He implored stakeholders to pay attention to those issues during his remarks on Monday during the curtain raiser for the 32nd Annual Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Conference and Exhibition, which was held at the Marriott Hotel.

“The Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association Conference must lead the way in recognizing and committing to the interlinked nature of these issues. By integrating climate- change resilience into our water strategies and policies, we can safeguard our communities, ecosystems, and the future of our planet,” the Prime Minister said, adding that only through sustained efforts a more secure and resilient future can be achieved.

Touching on the topic of

climate change, he said that this issue could pose a hindrance to the Region’s water supply.

“Climate change presents a potent challenge to our Region’s water supply. It is an issue which I hope will engage you at and beyond this conference,” Phillips said.

While expounding on some of the concerning global statistics, the Prime Minister urged those in the audience to answer the call to action.

Amidst the El Nino period that Guyana and other Caribbean countries are undergoing, he said the conference could not be timelier.

Speaking on some of the effects that have been plaguing Guyana, the Prime Minister said: “Local farmers, the backbone of our agricultural sector, have already begun to express concerns about the severe dry conditions that are parching grasslands and affecting access to water for their crops and livestock.”

Phillips also made some recommendations on how the Region can improve its water management, such as

investing in modern water infrastructure and technology.

He also explained that this includes the updating and expansion of water-treatment facilities, pipelines, and distribution systems, in order to minimize losses due to leaks and ensure reliable access to clean water.

Additionally, he remarked that sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling should be encouraged, as a means of reducing the strain on freshwater sources.

The Prime Minister then proposed the promotion of public awareness and education.

“Communities must understand the value of water and the impacts of wasteful practices. Public campaigns and educational programmes can foster a culture of water conservation,” he said.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister acknowledged the CWWA for their constant implementation of innovative solutions and practices in water and wastewater management.

Meanwhile, Minister of the Ministry of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, underscored the importance of having access to clean water and how their administration is working assiduously to ensure that this basic human right reaches all Guyanese.

“The Government of

Guyana is committed to investing in water infrastructure, promoting water conservation and ensuring that every citizen has access to clean water,” Rodrigues said.

The minister also said that in March of this year, Guyana completed a draft national water sector policy and then proudly remarked that this policy will provide a comprehensive outlook

on water governance and water-resource sustainability.

The 32nd Annual CWWA Conference and Exhibition is set to take place at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, in Georgetown from October 24th (today) to 26th, 2023.

The theme for this year’s conference is, “Accelerating Change in the Water, Wastewater and Waste Sectors.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

PRESIDENT, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced that Guyana and Canada will partner in developing a framework to provide training to young people in various technologically innovative fields.

While addressing the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo last Friday, the Head of State said a programme will be launched to have, at least, 3,000 young people in these jobs, in the coming years.

“Before I left Ottawa, we had many discourses and

and sustainable future in Guyana. That is the commitment of this government to all of us and the region,” he added.

President Ali recently held bilateral discussions with Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau in Ottawa.

The topics included Canada’s support for Guyana’s oil and gas industry expansion, as well as the two nations’ shared beliefs and strategies in agriculture, investments, food security, and climate resilience.

Guyana, Canada to develop framework to provide training for youth in ‘tech’ fields one of the things that you will see very soon, is work towards the building of the platform in the innovative realm of things. I think it was in parliament that our ministers were laying out the vision whereby we want to create innovative jobs for Guyanese, the jobs of the future,” he said.

Guyana has implemented various programmes to ensure that youths are provided with opportunities aimed at their development and the country’s growth.

President Ali said the

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work and commitment of young people will lead to Guyana being in a good position in the areas of food, energy and climate.

“The future belongs to

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you. [With] all the work that we are doing and the investments we are making, we are setting the framework to ensure that you have a strong, prosperous, resilient

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The head of state also emphasised how the region and Canada have adopted a set of values that have shaped their societies.

The region and Canada’s journey as steadfast allies and partners has been marked by more than just intellectual commonality. Dr Ali said that their partnership is a reflection of their mutual understanding of the value of communication and diplomacy in tackling the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

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President Ali joins Navratri festivities at Alexander Village Mandir

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

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–– says Guyana’s Multicultural Society can alter humanity’s perception worldwide

PRESIDENT Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali participated in the Navratri festivities at the Alexander Village Mandir in Georgetown, on Sunday night, marking the eighth night of the annual Hindu festival. The annual Hindu festival spans nine nights.

During his concise address, President Ali expressed delight in participating with followers in an evening of contemplation on the principles and doctrines of Hinduism, and above all, introspection in contemporary society.

“Because if we do a lot of self-reflection and we place ourselves in the entity or the problem or the situation of the one who is facing that problem or that entity that is being affected, then our own approach to the way we treat that entity, that person … would be very much different,” the head of state underscored.

The president emphasised how Guyana’s multicultural and varied society possesses the capacity to alter humanity’s perception worldwide.

He questioned, “How do we use our society, how do

we use the way we structure our society, how do we use the lessons of our society to reshape how the world views the human entity? ” Religions such as Hinduism, President Ali highlighted, can play a role in this objective.

He also stressed the importance of sharing one’s knowledge to the younger generation and others.

“One of the important things in Hinduism is that we have to transfer knowledge. We have to pass down knowledge … and that is why these periods of fasting is important,

because these periods of fasting are structured in a way spiritually.”

President Ali urged devotees to pray for their leaders, since they have played a role in keeping Hinduism alive.

Meanwhile, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, who accompanied the president, praised the executive of the mandir for its exceptional work in preserving the religion.

“When I look around the mandir I see some very young people and I know that this religious and spir-

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali addressing devotees at the Alexander Village Mandir on Sunday itual legacy of ours will be handed down to them in even stronger fashion” he stated.

Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, accompanied President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on Sunday, at the Alexander Village Mandir

People come together during Navratri to celebrate Durga, the mother goddess.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

A sector that grows Editor

THE PPP/C administration has always placed emphasis on agriculture and agricultural development.

The records will show that it was under the PPP administration during the 1957-1961 period that the foundations for agricultural take-off was laid. Agricultural lands and drainage and irrigation infrastructure were firmly laid during that period.

One consequence of that emphasis on agriculture was a significant increase in agricultural production, especially rice and other non-traditional crops such as vegetables, poultry, meat and milk. This emphasis on agriculture was intensified under the 19571961 PPP government to a point where one political opposition party campaigned on a Manifesto promise to provide ‘free milk and cassava’ to the population were it to win the elections.

The PPP has always considered agriculture as the backbone of the Guyana economy. This economic outlook has, in

Navendra Seoraj

fact, influenced the policy orientation of all successive PPP governments since 1957.

That emphasis on agriculture was, unfortunately, shattered after the PNC-UF coalition assumed power in the 1964 elections.

Guyana, once the breadbasket of the Caribbean in the early 1960s, saw a systematic destruction of the agricultural sector. Such was the extent of the decline in agricultural production that Guyana, at one time under the previous PNC regime, was forced to import both sugar and rice to meet domestic consumption needs.

Thankfully, those sordid years are now behind us, and Guyana is once again playing a lead role in terms of food security, not only in Guyana but in the region as a whole. President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali only recently was the recipient of an Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Award in recognition of his leadership role in agricultural transformation, food security and support for building resilient economies

in a sustainable manner in Guyana and the Caribbean.

Other elements of the Award, the first such award to be bestowed on any individual, included President Ali’s support and commitment to public agendas in relation to issues such as regional integration, rural connectivity, social inclusion in the countryside, and gender equality all of which are central to IICA’s work.

President Ali and the PPP/C administration must be commended for putting agriculture at the centre of the country’s developmental trajectory. Only recently, President Ali, during a visit to the small community of Baracara, in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), announced that 400 areas of land will be made available for the cultivation of protein-rich red beans.

According to President Ali, ‘We have to ensure that we not only make investment, but that we make investment work for us.’

The idea behind these developments is to

bring back land into production, and bring productivity back to communities.

It is an established fact that agricultural lands were sub-optimally utilised or abandoned altogether due to the misguided and vindictive policies of the previous PNC regime.

This emphasis on agriculture, as noted by Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, is consistent with the PPP/C administration’s aim at positioning Guyana as the hub of food production in the region.

And while it is true that oil is becoming a significant player in terms of economic growth and development, as was repeatedly stated by President Ali, it cannot be done at the expense of agriculture.

Several oil-producing countries had in the past suffered from the adverse consequences of the so-called “Dutch Disease”.

Guyana, with its emphasis on agriculture and balanced development, is certainly on the right course.

Reckless and dangerous driving plague our roadways

Dear Editor,

IN July I wrote a lengthy letter expressing my personal experience and increasing concern with regard to the continuing unabated loss of life from accidents on our roads.

Since then, it has become worse.

Almost every day, without fail, you read that a life has been lost from a road accident. So, the question is why is this happening and why is it getting worse?

The answer is obvious. Reckless driving and, consequently, dangerous driving on hugely overcrowded roads continue without fear of punishment by those who indulge in it. The other side of this coin is that those of us who drive safely are not protected from those who don’t.

We are not protected because the maximum fines when found guilty of reckless driving and even dangerous driving under our laws are ridiculously low. We are not protected because acci-

dent cases before the courts take months to be settled.

We are not protected because full third-party vehicle insurance limits are ridiculously low under our laws, and the reason for that is the resistance of the Insurance Association of Guyana to increasing the limits.

In fact, some 10 years ago, the government recommended increased third-party insurance limits, but the Association pushed back claiming that it would result in higher premiums which drivers could not afford. In my view, this is arrant nonsense, and it is time the Attorney General, who has recently threatened to act on this matter, does so.

At present, the minimum insurance allowed, for instance, for minibuses, hire-cars and heavy-duty trucks for collision is $25,000, whereas it ought to be somewhere in the region of $2 million at minimum in any modern society.

We are not protected because too

many drivers have bought their licences and continue to do so. We are not protected because even those drivers who are legitimately licensed refuse to recognise or respect even the most basic traffic standards and regulations. For instance: Entering a roundabout in confrontation with the vehicle already circling the roundabout.

Crossing a traffic light controlled intersection on a yellow light turning to red and, all too frequently, even on red lights.

Overtaking in the face of oncoming traffic, risking collision.

Overtaking when approaching a blind corner Motorcyclists refusing to wear helmets.

Undertaking on the inside of the lefthand lane. A frequent practice on the new Mandela Avenue, using the cycle lane.

Animals roaming freely on roads and highways with the owners uncaring and unpunished.

Driving at night with bright highbeam lights on blinding the vison of oncoming traffic.

Excessive speeding beyond prescribed limit.

All of the above occurs every day every hour on our roads but, in fact, could very easily be stopped by the determined intervention and prosecution of our traffic police prepared to do their job and prompt action in our courts.

Incidentally, one way of ensuring that our traffic police do their job is to have them wear body cameras.

No matter how many traffic seminars, traffic lectures or public appeals to errant drivers take place, nothing much will change until those responsible for enforcing the law do so and those who break the law are made to suffer the consequences.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

OP-ED

By Didier Trebucq and Vincent Sweeny

IN the heart of the Latin American and Caribbean region where the vibrant cultures and rich biodiversity intersect, the United Nations Latin America and Caribbean Climate Week (LACCW), hosted by the Government of Panama, commenced on October 23 and will last until 27, 2023.

Leaders, activists, policymakers and experts from across the region assembled in Panama to take stock of the critical challenges of climate change, ahead of COP28 in Dubai. LACCW is a call to regional action on four priority areas: I) energy systems and industry; II) cities, urban and rural settlements, infrastructure and transport; III) land, ocean, food and water; and IV) societies, health, livelihoods and economies.

The consequences of climate change are felt acutely in the 29 Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS) that have experienced record high temperatures, with consequent impacts from rising sea levels, devastating hurricanes, longer dry seasons and droughts, which affect economies, populations and livelihoods.

Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean SIDS are among the smallest and most vulnerable, with small, open economies that have been beset by recent external shocks such as the 2008 global financial and 2020 COVID-19 crises.

Caribbean SIDS also grapple with decades of unsustainable practices in de-

United action towards a greener, secure future –– reflections on the United Nations Latin America and Caribbean Climate Week

velopment, production and infrastructure that have, over decades, spewed solid waste and effluent pollution into sensitive terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Combined with climate effects, these threaten the resilience of ecosystems which provide frontline protection in coastal areas.

In a 2023 Caribbean survey on SIDS, challenges conducted by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), the highest category of reported concerns cited were “adverse effects of climate change” (15%), followed by “loss of biodiversity” (11%), and “natural disasters” (8.7%). Climate change disproportionately affects the poorest, most marginalized, and vulnerable communities.

Women and children often lack access to resources and assets to cope with disasters. Poverty levels in Eastern Caribbean SIDS average 24.6 percent, while women tend to be unemployed at higher rates and paid at lower levels than men, which increases their vulnerability.

Most of the poor are employed in tourism and agriculture – sectors that are particularly vulnerable to external events. Small-scale landholders and producers are also increasingly vulnerable due to high levels of income dependence on degraded agriculture lands and fishing stocks.

It is essential to protect and empower these communities to become more resilient by involving them in coordinated disaster preparedness and response, early warning

UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Didier Trebucq systems, and investing in climate-resilient livelihoods and social safety nets. This also means investing in education and public awareness, ensuring that everyone knows the role they can play in turning the tide against global warming and reducing the severity of future climate impacts.

The theme of this year’s LACCW is “Building a Resilient and Inclusive Future in Latin America and the Caribbean.”

The theme is more apt than ever for reinvigorating the battle against climate change and leveraging the power of the collective to build a resilient and inclusive future. The 2023 LACCW brings together multiple institutions and national stakeholders to gather the sentiments and core messages for action that the region will take to COP28 as well as the

upcoming Fourth International SIDS Conference in 2024.

Caribbean communities are already experiencing the effects of climate change, and quick action must be taken to learn, adapt and prepare for these changes. Infrastructure must be strengthened to withstand extreme weather events, sustainable agriculture practices adopted, and cities reinforced to be more climate resilient. Mitigation is also key to combating climate change.

Although the region is not among those that have historically emitted the most greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, we must take proactive steps to reduce our carbon emissions. This involves transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources, such as wind, geothermal and solar power, and promoting sustainable options across all sectors.

Consequently, access to climate finance, especially for adaptation, is essential to build resilience but unfortunately the Caribbean SIDS do not have sufficient financing to support their investment needs. This should be addressed with utmost priority and both the Bridgetown initiative promoted by Prime Minister Mia Mottley and the UN Secretary General’s SDG Stimulus plan provide most needed financing solutions.

The UN Eastern Caribbean Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF) 2022-2026 provides a robust framework for UN assistance in the sub-region. For example, the promotion of sustainable agriculture and forestry

Opposition’s subvention

Dear Editor,

PLEASE permit me to offer a response to a letter by Tony Vieira in the Stabroek News edition of October 22, 2023, with the caption, “Opposition needs far bigger subvention from budget to effectively do its job”.

The author made reference to the subvention to the Office of the Leader of the Opposition in 2006–2010 of some $4 million annually.

Assuming that he is correct, an Opposition member recently confirmed that they receive far more than this sum annually, which is about $30-$50 million annually. For the sake of argument, let’s use the lower amount of $30 million that is 7.5 times the annual budget according

to him, back in 2006-2010.

So, it is unclear by what he means the opposition needs a “far bigger” budget to be effective. The question is “how big”, that is, how much more, and why and to do what? The fact of the matter is that it is not the size of the budget allocation that makes an effective opposition.

When the incumbent government was in opposition during the period 2015-2020, I was able to confirm that their allocation was less than the current opposition.

In addition, the treasury saved $12 million per annum or $60 million over that period because the Opposition Leader then, now Vice President and General Secretary of the PPP/C, Dr.

Bharrat Jagdeo, never took any salary as opposition leader, which is $12 million annually (I was able to confirm this by the relevant agency that administers the Opposition’s budget i.e., Parliament).

Editor, so with that in mind, the current opposition is currently receiving a larger budget than the previous opposition, therefore, there is no need for a larger budget. Bearing in mind as well, that with a smaller budget, the previous opposition was extremely effective to the extent where they had successfully moved a no-confidence motion and won the elections in 2020.

Where was Tony Vieira then?

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

Head, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, Vincent Sweeny practices, and identifying suitable policy frameworks for sustainable transportation and energy-efficient buildings.

The UN is also working to improve the resilience of communities through strengthening early warning systems, disaster preparedness and responsive social protection mechanisms. De-

spite this valuable work, efforts must be scaled up so the sub-region can build a resilient and inclusive future. This may seem like a huge task; however, progress can be accelerated by taking small steps to accelerate the transition to clean energy, leverage natural resources for sustainable solutions and protect and empower vulnerable communities To combat climate change effectively, we must come together as a region.

Climate change does not respect class, race, borders, or boundaries. It is a global problem that requires a collective response.

As we observe LACCW, let us be reminded of the tremendous benefits to be gleaned from collaborating as countries and communities to promote public awareness, share knowledge, pool resources, and work towards common goals.

By strengthening our collective response, we can find innovative solutions to address the biggest threat to mankind – as we endeavour to preserve people and planet.

President Ali welcomes new U.S. Ambassador

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

–– underscores Guyana’s vision, strengthening U.S. co-operation PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali accepted letters of credence, on Monday, from the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot.

The Head of State accepted the letters at the Office of the President, where he emphasised that enhancing co-operation between the two countries was paramount.

Theriot, highly regarded as a long-serving member of the Senior Foreign Service, was nominated by President Joe Biden last year to assume the role of U.S Ambassador to Guyana, succeeding former Ambassador Sarah Ann Lynch whose term concluded.

After the ceremony on Monday, in a meeting with the new Ambassador, President Ali highlighted that Guyana and the United States share important commitments in global issues that go beyond projects and include democracy, international peace, and the rule of law.

Furthermore, it was not-

ed that the head of state placed significant emphasis on the need to enhance co-operation between the two countries, thus forging a more profound relationship and positioning them within the regional context.

In addition, Dr. Ali drew attention to Guyana’s vision, pointing out that the country is actively working towards becoming a global leader in the domains of food, climate, and energy security through the development of a dedicated

platform.

Ambassador Theriot said, “It is a great honour to serve as Ambassador to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and as the U.S. representative to the Caribbean Community. I look forward to working with President Ali and the people of Guyana to advance the goal of a prosperous and safe Guyana.”

President Biden nominated Nicole Theriot as U.S. Ambassador to Guyana on September 7, 2022,

President Dr Irfaan Ali and newly appointed U.S. Ambassador, Nicole D Theriot sharing a light moment (Office of the President photo) and she was confirmed by Advisor to the Deputy Asthe U.S. Senate on July 27, sistant Secretary of State for 2023.

Overseas Citizens Services Nicole most recently in the State Department’s served as Consul General Bureau of Consular Afat U.S. Consulate Karachi fairs (2018-2019), Political and Deputy Chief of Mis- Counselor at U.S. Embassy sion at U.S. Embassy Port- Kabul (2017-2018), Consul au-Prince, Haiti from July General at U.S. Consul2020-July 2022. ate Casablanca, Morocco She has served as the (2014-2017), and SuperDirector for Immigration visory Regional Consular and Visa Security at the Officer assisting 102 conU.S. National Security sular sections worldwide Council in the Executive (2012-2014).

Office of the President Her previous diplomatic (2019-2020), the Senior assignments included Po-

THE ‘bed and drain’ project that is currently ongoing in communities along the Pomeroon River is progressing smoothly, according to Region Two Chairperson Vilma De Silva.

De Silva recently provided an update at the region’s statutory meeting, which was held in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) boardroom.

She told the regional officials that the implementation of the project was a directive from President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who wanted to assist farmers who were planting along the Pomeroon River.

According to the chairperson, scores of cash-crop farmers had asked that their

“beds” be lifted after their crops were destroyed due to flooding.

The request was immediately granted to those farmers who are cultivating five acres and below in the Upper and Lower Pomeroon River.

De Silva told the region’s RDC that 350 farmers in the Upper Pomeroon and 190 in the Lower Pomeroon can expect to benefit from the initiative.

She said that the project is going smoothly, and farmers have expressed their satisfaction with the way things are going.

She also told the RDC that she visited some of the farmers recently and got positive reviews.

The chairperson emphasised that farmers will see improvements in their farmlands, including less flooding, by the time the project ends.

“This is what our government is doing; President Irfaan Ali listened to farmers, and the intervention was made. The lands are being raised, and farmers are benefitting,” De Silva said.

Another government councillor, Arnold Adams, applauded the initiative, and said that the project will offer significant support to farmers plying their trade in the Pomeroon River.

He reminded his fellow councillors that farmers have been severely affected by

Region Two Chairperson Vilma De Silva (second right) and other regional officials at the RDC statutory meeting held earlier this month spring tide and heavy rainfall crops will now be protected. affecting them to the nearover the years, and with this Adams urged farmers est Neighbourhood Demointervention, their lands and to report any issue that is cratic Council (NDC) office.

President Dr Irfaan Ali accepting the letters of credence from the new U.S. Ambassador, Nicole D Theriot (Office of the President photo)

litical Officer in Islamabad, Pakistan, Consular Chief for Barbados & the Eastern Caribbean, Deputy Consular Chief in Baghdad, Iraq, Visa Chief in Montreal, Canada, Consular Officer in Paris, France, and Information Officer in Lagos, Nigeria. Nicole began her career with the U.S. Department of State as an intern at U.S. Embassy Nairobi, Kenya in 1997.

She also served as Staff Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Maura Harty, at the Department of State from 2004-2005.

Nicole holds numerous U.S. Department of State awards, including Superior Honor Awards for her work in Afghanistan (2018) and her assistance to U.S. citizens in the Eastern Caribbean (2010).

She was also the recipient of the Senior Foreign Service Performance Award in both 2021 and 2022. Nicole is a Career Member of the U.S. Department of State’s Senior Foreign Service, Class of Officer-Counselor.

Over 500 Pomeroon farmers benefitting from ‘bed and drain’ project

The Stabroek News and those Palestinian marches

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

IN the last section of my long series on the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC), which was part 14 and titled, “The future of the MCC,” Thursday, October 12, I wrote the following words: “Not all anti-government outfits are part of the MCC. The PNC is not. The current leadership of the AFC is not. I will do a separate column, using class analysis to explain why Kaieteur News is not part of the MCC.” It is important if you want to understand the role of social classes in your country to use class analysis when studying social phenomena.

Nothing will make sense to you if you do not use class analysis, and other people will have to do the interpretations for you. This is where academics come in because they will have to offer analytical explanations.

Just one example will suffice. What is the crucial difference in their role in Guyana between the sugar union, GAWU, and the civil society group, Red Thread? The union was born out of a struggle in British Guiana to free a quintessential working-class part of Guyana’s political economy—the rural proletariat.

Red Thread, on the other hand, was founded by a group of middle-class women from the MCC who never saw their mandate as liberating the working people. GAWU’s mission is to protect a historic section of the rural proletariat— the sugar workers. Go to any GAWU congress, and 100 percent of the delegates will be from working-class employments.

I went to the Red Thread sponsored, day of appreciation for Andaiye when she died, and knowing that I am open to contradiction, I asserted that not one working-class person was there (maybe except me, though I don’t know by objective class standards, I am working class).

The most influential voice in Red Thread is Dr. Alissa Trotz, a Canadian based Guyanese.

Ms. Trotz for the past 15 years has edited a column in the Stabroek News (SN) titled, “In The Diaspora.” That column has never articulated a working-class-based position on anything in Guyana. Ironically, Ms. Trotz is the one of the leading figures in the organisation titled, “Working People’s Alliance Overseas Group.”

So we come now to the class nature of the PNC, AFC, and Kaieteur News (KN). I remind you of what I wrote in my last part of the MCC series. An anti-government organisation in

Guyana does not necessarily belong to the very vocal and ubiquitous MCC. The PPP and PNC are two strong pro-working-class political parties whose constituencies are quintessential working people. The AFC started out as an invention of the MCC, but I think Mr. Ramjattan should be given credit for steering it away from its MCC mooring.

He brought in a lot of working-class Indians from Berbice and Essequibo. Today, most of the remnants of a dying AFC are Indian working-class people.

I have absolutely no respect for Mr. Glen Lall, owner of the KN. Mr. Lall, a figure of disdain, feels the PPP leaders have robbed him of the title of being Guyana’s numero uno Indian. Mr. Lall has an insane obsession with PPP leaders that, after 2025, will see him fade away.

But I will vulgarize my academic training if I classify the KN as having a middle-class, elitist culture as the SN. It does not, because Mr. Lall himself and his management staff are not driven by MCC elitism. The KN does not view Guyana through the eyes of class and colour. The SN does. And there is graphic evidence it does if you look at its complete blackout of two large demonstrations in support of the Palestinians.

KN carried six photos of each march. SN completely ignored the marches. On Saturday, almost 400 people marched through a section of Georgetown, and that was ignored

by SN. The same paper never neglects to carry the images of the tiny cabal from the MCC that frequents Vlissengen Road outside the Office of the President (OP) picketing against EXXON. Every presence of this tiny cabal outside OP is carried in SN. Now, the KN does that too because of its anti-government stance, but it did carry twelve photographs of the Palestinian marches.

Why did the SN not report on the Palestinian marches? Because the paper cannot identify with the Palestinian cause and also would not want to upset some of its patrons in the diplomatic community. The EU has come out in favour of Israel. The head of the EU commission, Ursula van der Ledyen flew to Israel days after the conflict broke out.

The EU embassy in Guyana recently gave the EU Human Rights Award to the Stabroek News. Hope you read between the lines.

Errant gold miners to face full force of the law

THE following is the full statement from the Ministry of Natural Resources: “EMANATING from a recent analysis and assessment, the Government of Guyana has noted the significant difference between the production of gold and the declaration/ sale of gold to licensed gold dealers, traders, and/ or the Guyana Gold Board.

This is evident from the reduction in gold declaration to date when compared to current mining activities and concomitant investment within the sector. In this regard, an investigation

has been launched aimed at having those involved in such action face the full force of the law.

Miners and operators are therefore reminded of the following: 1. Miners are required to sell all gold to licensed gold dealers/traders or the Guyana Gold Board; 2. It is illegal to purchase gold without the requisite licence to undertake such activities. The relevant agencies have been tasked with immediate and condign actions to ensure that

all gold mined is sold to licensed dealers/traders or the Guyana Gold Board.

Persons in breach of this legal requirement will be prosecuted, and, in the case of miners with existing property tenures within the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), they may be in jeopardy of losing such tenures. Miners culpable of selling gold to unlicensed dealers/ traders, in addition to being prosecuted, may be restricted from the mining sector.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

First UG graduate in the family, Rayon Doris, admitted to Bar

RAYON Doris, who was the first University of Guyana graduate in his family, has now become the inaugural lawyer in his family after being admitted to the local bar to practise law.

The culmination of Doris’s significant journey in the legal profession occurred when attorney Jacy Archibald presented his petition to Justice Fidela Corbin Lincoln at the Demerara High Court.

Doris, now 23, attended the Ann’s Grove Primary School, and after writing the Common Entrance Examinations in 2011, he was awarded a place at the Hope Secondary School.

He was described as being a “well-rounded student” who was involved in academic and extracurricular activities.

In 2016, Doris was awarded the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) from the Caribbean Examinations Council ob-

taining passes in nine subjects.

It is no surprise that he also placed in the eighth position on the CXC’s Agricultural Science Single Award Merit list of 2016.

Doris continued his educational journey by enrolling at St. Roses High School for Cape Studies, where he earned diplomas after excelling in twelve subjects.

He further distinguished himself by obtaining an Associate of Arts Degree in Humanities-Law from CXC, completing all relevant and compulsory units.

In 2018, he commenced his tertiary education at the University of Guyana, where he pursued a Bachelor of Laws Degree (LLB). His dedication and hard work culminated in him receiving his LLB with Distinction in December 2021.

During his time at the University of Guyana, Doris actively participated in

mooting competitions and played a leadership role in mini-debating competitions for various courses, such as Legal Language Argument.

Subsequently, Doris continued his legal education at the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) in Trinidad, earning his Legal Education Certificate (LEC) in September 2023.

In a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Doris expressed his profound affection for the legal profession, emphasising that law swiftly became the “apple of his eyes.”

Offering words of encouragement to his peers, Doris said, “Do not limit yourself. If you desire something and want it so badly, you must aspire to it. There is nothing that is impossible.”

As a newly admitted attorney, he plans to practise both criminal and civil law while setting his sights on further developing his skills

Attorney-at-law Rayon Doris (centre) flanked by his biological father Troy Doris and Deputy ‘Operations’ (ag.), Ravindradat Budhram (at left) whom he also acknowledges as a father figure for the oil and gas industry and arbitration.

Additionally, he aspires

to obtain accreditation in international law and has a keen interest in interna-

tional humanitarian law, considering global developments.

“THE Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Guyana is pleased to join forces with key stakeholders, the telecommunications service providers GTT, Digicel, and ENet to announce the significant milestone in the evolution of telecommunications services in Guyana, the implementation of number portability.

The phenomenon of number portability will provide consumers with the freedom to switch telecommunications providers whilst retaining their existing telephone numbers. The implementation of number portability is indeed a transformative step towards enhancing the telecommunications expe-

rience for all Guyanese.

It empowers consumers and businesses by putting them in control of their telecommunications choices, and this will herald a new era of innovation and customer-centric service within the telecommunications industry.

GTT, Digicel, and ENet are committed to ensuring a seamless and efficient number portability process. Each company will provide comprehensive information and support to guide consumers throughout this transition.

The PUC, as the regulatory authority will continue to oversee the implementation of number portability and the commission will ensure that the process adheres to established

guidelines and standards, whilst performing its usual mandate to balance the interests of the consumer and that of the telecommunications service providers to ensure that their financial viability and competitiveness are maintained.

The operators are about to enter a final testing period before the launch of number portability. As part of the launch process, the PUC, GTT, Digicel, and ENet wish to assure the Guyanese consumer that we intend to educate and inform on the necessary processes, obligations and allay any potential concerns. Please stay tuned to all forms of publication media for further updates!”

Young agriculturists Customers could soon switch telecommunications –– following implementation of number portability provider, retain number entering agro-processing The following is a joint press statement issued by the Public Utilities Commission:

YOUNG agriculturists participating in the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP) are now exploring opportunities in the agro-processing sector by utilising produce cultivated through the shade house initiative.

Pepper jelly, made from sweet and hot peppers that are available in two variants – hot and mild; cauliflower rice, carrot jams and marmalades are also being produced under the innovative agriculture programme.

Marketing Director of One Guyana Agriculture Inc., Clebert Wade, made the disclosure in an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara on Sunday.

He explained that products that do not meet the market standards are utilised for agro-processing.

“So even though these products are wholesome, they’re healthy and good for us, they don’t necessarily meet the standard … what we do, we take them and inject them into agro-processing …

We’re showcasing that you can be different and you can take what you have, what

Marketing Manager of One Guyana Agriculture Inc., Clebert Wade

is produced locally and you can create a whole new different product line,” Wade explained.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of One Guyana Agriculture Inc., Teesha Mangra-Singh said the response to the new line of products has been good so far.

The AIEP initiative was launched by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali in January 2022, and is intended to stimulate and promote economic growth and improve the lives

Chief Executive Officer, One Guyana Agriculture Inc, Teesha Mangra-Singh of young agriculturists.

It is also contributing to CARICOM’s target of reducing its large food import bill by 25 per cent by the year 2025, with Guyana leading the initiative.

Shade house farming is being practised by more than 100 young graduates from the University of Guyana and the Guyana School of Agriculture.

They are growing non-native crops like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, romaine, and iceberg lettuce.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Single mother of six reaches new heights as contractor

–– praises gov’t for the opportunity to grow, improve life

By Trina Williams

CRITICAL investments in infrastructure not only improve the lives of the direct beneficiaries, but also serve as a catalyst for change among persons who are contracted to execute the pertinent work.

Of these many individuals, 45-year-old Angeline Christie prominently stands out owing to the fact that she did not have an easy childhood or adulthood.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Monday, this single mother of six reflected on how empowered she feels as a woman in the male-dominated field of construction.

From the tender age of eight, Christie was already on her feet and working in order to keep her household functioning.

Speaking on her childhood, she said: “It was a bit tough, because we had to go out at an early age [to work]… I was eight and used to be selling [Guy-

Angeline Christie ana] Chronicle and Stabroek [newspapers].”

With life being rocky and filled with challenges, Christie kept on pushing, no matter how gloomy it might have seemed.

In adulthood, she then ventured off into selling incense, oils and perfumes, and then moved on to selling tasty treats. For this single mother, there wasn’t a bridge that she wouldn’t cross in order to put her kids first.

It is for this reason that Christie praised the current

PPP/C government for staying true to their commitment of creating jobs for all.

“When I see myself then and I see myself now, I thank the government,” the single mother of six gleefully told this publication.

Lost for words and still stunned by the opportunity handed to her, Christie also said: “It’s so overwhelming; I feel great. It’s such a good feeling that I can’t even express myself.”

As with many other citizens, Christie said that the prospects under the PPP/C Government are brighter when compared to the previous coalition administration, when persons were bombarded with taxes on essentials such as water and electricity.

The contractor said it was tough to even put food on the table for her and the kids during the coalition’s five-year tenure.

Addressing how she got the inspiration to become a contractor, Christie said: “I would normally be at Ministry of Education selling,

and one day, one of the guys said ‘Do you want to be a contractor?’ I thought it was a joke and I said ‘yes’… So I took the motivation.”

Today, she is participating in the tremendous development ongoing in Albouystown and surrounding communities.

For her, seeing her once-neglected community being factored into the nation’s overall development is a positive.

“The development is good; it shows that the [PPP/C] government is working,” she said.

Earlier this month, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said that job creation has exceeded expectations.

Since assuming office in 2020, more than 50,000 people have become employed.

With this goal coming sooner than expected, it marks a tremendous accomplishment for the PPP/C government, which, in its 2020-2025 Manifesto, promised to provide 50,000 new jobs by the end of its first term in office.

One of the projects being undertaken by Angeline Christie

Leonora Secondary School gets new $75M dormitory –– Stewartville Secondary equipped with state-of-the-art smart classroom

THE Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, on Monday, commissioned the new school dormitory at the Leonora Secondary School, Region Three.

The $75 million dormitory will house students from riverine communities attending schools in Region Three.

Further, to modernise the Education Sector with the infusion of technology, students of Stewartville Secondary School, Region Three

are now benefitting from a state-of-the-art smart classroom also commissioned on Monday.

During the commissioning ceremony, Minister Manickchand highlighted that the infusion of technology in the education system was integral.

With the use of smart classrooms, educators can reach children in every region and this will help to lessen the disparities in the quality

of education.

“And so, it is very important that we can make you into the best version of yourself. You will see a lot of efforts and investments happening in the education sector…” Minister Manickchand underscored.

The expanded vision is that every school must have at least one smart classroom.

Students were informed that they, too, have a responsibility to utilise all of the opportuStudents of Stewartville Secondary School, Region Three are now benefitting from a state-of-the-art smart classroom

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, on Monday, commissioned the new school dormitory at the Leonora Secondary School, Region Three

nities available to them.

“This is an indication of our commitment to you that you will always come first in our priorities, the children of this country, the next generation of leaders, because that is who you are. And you will see that translated into actions,” the Education Minister emphasised.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Sheik Ayube, who delivered brief remarks, emphasised that smart classrooms help to enhance the

students’ learning so that they can be better equipped to function in today’s society.

The smart classrooms are equipped with an interactive board, audio system, smart cameras, and wireless television that allow teachers and students to connect and interact remotely. To guarantee that participants communicate effectively, motion-activated and speech-activated cameras with voice recognition are also placed.

Over the last three years, the government has established smart classrooms at President’s College, Queen’s College, St. Stanislaus College and Leonora, Moraikobai, Christiansburg, Charity, New Amsterdam, Skeldon Line Path, Brickdam and East Ruimveldt Secondary schools.

This year, 25 smart classrooms are expected to be established or enhanced at secondary schools across the country.

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Infrastructural advancement continues

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

–– several critical projects progressing well

FOLLOWING his most recent project meeting with government engineers, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill paid an impromptu visit to over eight project sites in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) to ensure that contractors are working towards meeting their deadlines.

Some of the sites visited were the Grove/Diamond project, the new Demerara Harbour Bridge site, the Ogle/Eccles roads, Aubrey Barker Road, ‘Red Road’, Cemetery Road, Lamaha Street (between Vlissingen Road and Middleton Street), ‘Conversation Tree’, East Coast Railway Embankment, and Industry

(Orphanage Road).

Minister Edghill said that the main aim of the visits was to ensure that the issues raised in these areas were resolved, and clear directions were given on the way forward. (See tomorrow’s publication for more details on the outcome of the visits.)

Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill engages the team working on the new Demerara Harbour Bridge

A section of the Ogle/Eccles roads (Delano Williams photos)

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill on the Grove Public Road

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

More resources needed from regional banks to achieve food security targets –– President Ali tells agriculture stakeholders; suggests more robust programmes, consortiums

REDUCING the regional expenditure on imported food will require vast investments, but the regional banking sector needs to have more internal drive and commitment to support the ongoing efforts by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said.

Dr. Ali, during his ad-

dress at the opening ceremony of the third regional Agri-Investment Forum and Expo held last Friday, candidly said that access to financing is competitive and harsh.

With this in mind, he highlighted that more is required from regional institutions such as the Caribbean Development Bank (CBD) to establish programmes to support the agriculture industry.

“The private sector has to be motivated to invest in agriculture. Unfortunately, our banking sector lacks the internal drive and the internal commitment to food security in the region and I said so, not because we want to pick a fight with the banking sector, but because I believe the banks across the region can do much more and should do much more in supporting food production, agriculture and our farmers,” Dr. Ali told the gathering of both regional and international stakeholders.

Caribbean leaders are currently on a mission to reduce the region’s high dependency on food imports by slashing its US$6 billion expenditure by 25 per cent by the year 2025. The goal is to produce more food and establish policies to ensure that the region is food secure.

In Guyana, the local banks have been supporting

agriculture-driven investments to increase food production and adapt newer innovative and climate-smart practices to support the sector.

Dr. Ali, while acknowledging this, said: “When you look at our investment in agriculture, over the last two years, our resource allocation to agriculture and

farmers increased by over 300 per cent to more than $33 billion.”

From the local banking sector here, the country has seen a 61 per cent increase in lending to support agriculture projects.

Dr. Ali said: “This tells a story that both in the public and private sector there is great confidence in what we are doing in relation to the 25 by 2025 and in relation to the food production plan.”

The Guyanese Head of State who holds responsibility for food security in CARICOM suggested that consortiums be formed.

“In an environment in which access to financing is not only competitive but also harsh, we have to be very strategic and careful in our

planning,” he said.

At a previous forum, Dr. Ali had revealed that for the region to achieve its ambitious food security targets by 2025, it will need to produce in excess of 1.4 million tonnes of commodities over the next two years.

According to President Ali, these commodities include poultry meat, corn,

soya beans and rice for feed production; meat (beef, pork and mutton); niche vegetables; and coconut products.

Already, the region has achieved 57 per cent of the production target towards reducing the food-import bill by 25 per cent by 2025; however, stakeholders have to produce 1.4 million tonnes of these commodities.

Notably, Guyana, in the first half of 2023, cultivated over 3,000 acres of soya beans, and over 1,200 acres of corn. The country has also increased its coconut production, with over 5,000 newly-established acres of coconut cultivated from 2021 to January to June 2023 with new coconut nurseries.

Meanwhile, the produc-

tion of high-value crops such as carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower is being promoted with the establishment of shade houses across the country.

The country has also undertaken several massive projects to increase the production of rice, meat, and dairy products. Investments are also being made to expand the aquaculture sector.

Some US$7.5 billion in investment is needed for the region to achieve its goals.

In February, CARICOM’s Ministerial Taskforce (MTF) on Food Production and Food Security announced that it has collectively achieved 57 per cent of its “Vision 25 by 2025” target.

It was reported that products such as cocoa, dairy, meat, root crops, fruits, and poultry have already reached 96.13 per cent, 84.36 per cent, 72.28 per cent, 70.91 per cent, 70.77 per cent, and 70.19 per cent, respectively, for

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali the targetted production volume set for the year 2025.

Countries such as Guyana, Belize Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname,

Dominica, and Jamaica have made significant advances in the production of commodities such as ginger, turmeric, corn, soya bean, root crops, fruits, cocoa, poultry, meat, fish, table eggs, and dairy.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Finance Minister urges NIS to recommit to a more efficient, respected system –– commends entity on disposing of all 14,000 pending claims inherited by current gov’t in 2020

SENIOR Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, on Monday, commended the Board and staff of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) for disposing of all 14,000 inherited pending claims since the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) returned to office in 2020.

The minister also urged the scheme’s staff to, during the celebratory period, recommit themselves to ensuring a more efficient and respected entity going forward.

Dr. Singh was addressing the NIS Board, staff and other invitees during the scheme’s 54 th Anniversary and Awards ceremony held at the Patrick Martinborough Multipurpose Complex, on Carifesta Avenue.

“I am proud of the NIS but the organisation is getting a bad rap because of a few bad eggs and because of a few cases that really are tainting the entire scheme and so the NIS has an obligation to deliver service in an efficient manner. On the occasion of this 54th anniversary, I will appeal to you once again to raise the standards of your

Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, on Monday, commended the Board and staff of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) for disposing of all 14,000 inherited pending claims since the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) returned to office in 2020 operation and to deliver efficient service to ensure that everybody that is coming in, that the claims are vigorously dealt with,” the Finance Minister urged.

Dr. Singh also posited that the government is firmly committed to the scheme and to ensuring its viability.

“Work has already started; a new actuarial review has commenced.

The actuary has met with a number of stakeholders.

This Government, led by the President, His Excel-

lency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali is firmly committed to the long-term viability of the NIS. So, we are here for the long haul,” Minister Singh reiterated.

The Finance Minister then congratulated all persons who received bursary and long-service awards.

General Manager of the scheme Holly Greaves, in her remarks at the ceremony, also expressed gratitude to the minister, the NIS Board and all staff for dedication and hard work over the years.

While congratulating staff on their hard work and for ensuring that the scheme continues to receive payments and that the vulnerable in society receive their benefits, Chairman of the NIS Board Mr. Ramesh Persaud noted as well that the scheme needed to work further to revisiting rules to ensure that they made sense in today’s society.

“Society has transformed and so will be required of the NIS. The challenges of NIS have to

be resolved now,” he said as a charge to the scheme’s board and staff.

A priority of the Government when it assumed office in 2020 was to address the complaints received from contributors to the scheme with pending claims at the time amounting to 14,000 as at November 2020. In support of this effort, Government at Cabinet level, undertook a series of nationwide outreach sessions that took the services of NIS to the citizens, with 12 sessions held

in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10.

Over 1,300 persons across the country have benefitted from these sessions, many of whom are in receipt of old age pension after waiting for a number of years.

Additionally, all inherited 14,000 pending claims have been resolved.

However, the Finance Minister said that notwithstanding the progress made, much more remains to be done.

Dr. Singh reiterated that the NIS was conceived in 1969 and remains today the preeminent national institution to provide for those who are unable to work, for medical insurance and for the sick and the elderly and to provide for those who exit employment.

During the 54th anniversary ceremony, children of NIS employees who performed outstandingly at various annual examinations, including the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC), were provided with Bursary Awards while long-serving employees and retirees also received awards.

United Nations Day Message

Message from Yeşim Oruç, UN Resident Coordinator Guyana, on the occasion of United Nations Day

TODAY is United Nations (UN) Day. It marks the entry into force of the UN Charter, built on three pillars of peace, development, and human rights. I have the privilege to work for the UN here in Guyana with my UN Country Team colleagues. I want to remind you that it is your actions; the actions of people and of countries that ultimately uphold the UN, the only global organisation which belongs to all nations.

First, peace. Peace is not just the absence of wars; it is the outcome of actions of countries using the timeless tools of diplomacy and dialogue, underpinned by international law, to prevent conflict. Guyana will soon take a seat on the UN Security Council, thus associating itself unequivocally with this ambition, and with actions for global peace.

Second, development. Recently, Guyana presented its progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of global goals representing humanity’s aspirations for a better world. Guyana’s authorities called on the world’s wealthiest countries to live up to

their financing promises, whilst committing Guyana to accelerating its own progress towards the SDGs. No doubt, much still has to be done: To be clear, there are no short-cuts to development, but Guyana’s budgetary and planning frameworks deliberately anchor national policy in the SDGs. Finally, rights. The government and civil society of Guyana engage actively with the UN forums and UN conventions, increasingly through national institutional setups such as the National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-up. These engagements, as in the case of all democratic societies, are complex, and working with and through these UN bodies entails a process of sometimes frustrating examinations. But it is working.

We at the UN do not take for granted Guyana’s continued and expanding engage-

ment with the UN’s peace, development and human rights mechanisms. Our multilateral system depends precisely on this kind of engagement and action from all its Member States, so that it withstands the many assaults it faces.

Next year, the UN Secretary-General will convene the Summit of the Future. That Summit will be all about strengthening the multilateral system, with the UN at its core, to reaffirm existing commitments, including to the SDGs and the UN Charter, and to elicit new ones for our organisation to be fit for purpose to overcome the many crises humanity faces.

On this UN day, I invite you, the people of Guyana, to sustain Guyana’s contributions to peace, development and human rights by its actions. Act Now!

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday October 24, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) M S Dhoni (2) M S Dhoni

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was the winning World Cup captain in the 2015 tournament?

(2) Who claimed the Man of the Match Award in the final?

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Lewis Hamilton disqualified after finishing second in US Grand Prix

LEWIS Hamilton has been disqualified from second place in Sunday’s United States Grand Prix for driving an illegal car.

Nearly four hours after the chequered flag fell on Hamilton’s most competitive race of the season – one he claimed he should have won if Mercedes did not fluff their strategy lines – the stewards declared his car’s machinery did not comply with the regulations.

The depth of the new floor on Hamilton’s Mercedes was adjudged to be “outside the thresholds outlined in Article 3.5.9 e).” – which states that the plank cannot wear to below 9mm thickness.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished sixth, was disqualified for the same breach following Sunday’s 56-lap race at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas.

Hamilton’s demise elevated Lando Norris to runner-up behind Max Verstappen, who claimed the 50th win of his career and 15th from 18 this season, and Carlos Sainz to third.

Sergio Perez was promoted to fourth to extend his lead over Hamilton in the fight for runner-up in the championship from 27 points to 39 with four races left.

Mercedes’ sporting director Ron Meadows, trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin and reliability chief Richard Lane were summoned to fight Hamilton’s corner with the FIA’s four stewards – which included former British driver Derek Warwick – at 6pm local time (midnight BST).

After 30 minutes, the

Motorracer Lewis Hamilton trio emerged from the FIA offices in the paddock before Hamilton’s punishment was handed down at 7.16pm local time (1.16am BST). It is understood Mercedes will not appeal the FIA’s verdict.

A statement from the FIA read: “During the hearing the team acknowledged that the measurement performed by the FIA Technical Team was correct and stated that the high wear on the skid pads was probably a result of the unique combination of the bumpy track and the sprint race schedule (on Saturday) that minimised the time to set up and check the car before the race.

“The stewards note that the onus is on the competitor to ensure that the car is in compliance with the regulations at all times during an event.”

It continued: “In this particular case, the rear skid in the area defined in the technical delegate’s

report was outside of the thresholds outlined in Article 3.5.9 e) of the FIA Formula One Technical Regulations, which includes a tolerance for wear.

“Therefore, the standard penalty for a breach of the technical regulations is imposed.”

Four cars were chosen at random following the race. Both Verstappen’s Red Bull and Norris’ McLaren passed the scrutineering checks.(Sportsmax).

Michael Schumacher was disqualified from the 1994 Belgian Grand Prix for an illegal floor, allowing Damon Hill to win the race.

The post-race penalties on Sunday night saw Williams’ Logan Sargeant claim his maiden point in F1 – the first American to score in the sport since Michael Andretti 30 years ago for McLaren at the Italian Grand Prix.(Sportsmax)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

World Cup 2023

Afghanistan seal historic win over Pakistan in Chennai thriller

By Tom MallowsBBC Sport

AFGHANISTAN beat Pakistan for the first time in one-day cricket by pulling off their highest successful chase in the format in a World Cup thriller.

Ibrahim Zadran made 87, Rahmanullah Gurbaz smacked 65 and Rahmat Shah struck an unbeaten 77 as Afghanistan reached their target of 283 with eight wickets and six balls to spare.

Afghanistan are up to sixth, leaving holders England bottom of the table.

Captain Babar Azam earlier made 74 as Pakistan posted 282-7 in Chennai.

Teenage spinner Noor Ahmad was the pick of the Afghanistan bowlers, taking 3-49.

It is Afghanistan’s first win over Pakistan in ODIs at the eighth attempt, with their total of 286-2 seeing them eclipse their previous record successful chase of 276-8 when set 274 to beat United Arab Emirates in 2014.

It is also only Afghanistan’s third World Cup win, after victories over Scotland in 2015 and England earlier in this tournament.

Afghanistan keep hopes alive

Afghanistan players celebrate the moment victory is achieved (Photo: Getty Images) The Afghanistan fans in the crowd went wild when skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi hit the winning runs, the players saluting them with a lap of honour, some draped in the national flag.

The match brought back memories of another thriller between the sides at Headingley in the 2019 World Cup, though it is Afghanistan who came out on top this time to finally beat their neighbour in this format.

It also proved Afghanistan’s victory over England in Delhi was no fluke, as they coped admirably under pressure during the run chase.

Openers Gurbaz and Zadran made a blistering start to ensure they stayed ahead of the required rate, putting on 130 for the first wicket, their second century stand of the tournament.

Gurbaz top-edged to Usama Mir at third man and Zadran was caught behind off Hassan Ali 13 runs short of a century, but Afghanistan showed resilience to maintain their momentum.

Rahmat hit five fours and two sixes in his composed knock, as Afghanistan became the first chasing team in World Cup history to have their top three all make half-centuries.

He was ably supported by Hashmat, who hit 48 not out from 45 balls, in an unbroken third-wicket partnership worth 96 to see Afghanistan over the line.

Pakistan slump to miserable defeat After beginning the tournament with back-to-back wins, Pakistan have now lost three in a row to leave their semi-final hopes in jeopardy.

They began well with the bat and reached 56-0 after the powerplay, their best 10-over total batting first at this World Cup, but their innings ground to a halt as they were well shackled by Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack.

The star with the ball for Afghanistan was 18-year-old Noor, playing just his fourth ODI and making his World Cup debut.

The left-arm wrist-spinner took the key wickets of Abdullah Shafique, who made 58 from 75, Muhammad Rizwan and skipper Babar to help pin Pakistan down in the middle overs.

When Babar’s attritional 92-ball knock ended in the 42nd over, Pakistan were wobbling on 206-5, though Iftikhar Ahmed

injected some much-needed impetus late on with a spritely 40 from just 27 balls, including four sixes.

He put on 73 for the sixth wicket with Shadab Khan, who hit 40 from 38, as they lifted Pakistan to what seemed an imposing score before both were dismissed in the final over.

Afghanistan showed tremendous maturity and calmness in the chase, though their cause was helped by sloppy Pakistan fielding, which left team director Mickey Arthur absolutely seething in the dugout.

Pakistan stay in Chennai for their next match against South Africa on Friday. Afghanistan head to Pune to take on Sri Lanka on Monday.

‘That really hurt us’ - reaction Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi: “This win tastes nice. The way we chased was very professional and the way we did that will help us going into our other games now.

“We are playing quality cricket. We have always had belief and at the start of the tournament I told my team I wanted to make it a historic one for our country and our people.

We did that against England and now against Pakistan.

“Our bowling was very good, especially our spinners. We gave Noor a chance and trusted his talent. With the bat, the way we started the innings gave us a lot of confidence and momentum.”

Pakistan captain Babar Azam: “That really hurt us. We got a good total. Our bowling is not up to the mark.

“In World Cups you need all three departments firing and we haven’t done that.

Afghanistan played very well but we gave them a lot of runs and it cost us.

“We were backing ourselves to win, but they played well in all three departments and we didn’t. We have got to put that right in our next match.”

Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott, speaking to BBC Sport: “Ecstatic is an understatement. We’ve got some time off now and can let the emotion of it sink in.

“This backs up the victory against England. These boys can play. It’s just about putting it together and being consistent.”(BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Manchester City condemn offensive Sir Bobby Charlton chants at home game against Brighton

MANCHESTER City say they will take action after a “small number of individuals” were heard singing offensive chants following the death of Sir Bobby Charlton.

The Manchester United and England legend died on Saturday, aged 86.

City have condemned the chants, which were heard in some Etihad Stadium concourses during their game against Brighton on Saturday afternoon.

The club say they are

“extremely disappointed” by the reports.

A statement from Manchester City said: “Manchester City FC are extremely disappointed to have learned of reports of offensive chanting from a small number of individuals about Sir Bobby Charlton in some of the concourses of Etihad Stadium during half-time of yesterday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.

“On this day of all days, when the stadium stood

to pay tribute to our own legend in Francis Lee, Manchester City supporters should understand and appreciate as keenly as anyone the need for respect in our game.

“Our security team are studying CCTV footage of the concourse areas. We are thankful to those who have already come forward to report this matter.

“We continue to appeal for any information that can help us identify the individuals involved so that we can

take the appropriate action to issue banning orders.”

United’s next home Premier League game will be the Manchester derby against City on Sunday 29 October.

In a statement, the Premier League said it was “appalled” to hear about the reports of chanting.

“We welcome Manchester City seeking information on those responsible and will support any subsequent action,” they said.(BBC Sport)

Before Saturday’s game, Manchester City players and fans paid tribute to their former striker Francis Lee, who died earlier this month.

Matthews’ brace helps Renegades to first win

MELBOURNE, Australia, (CMC) – West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews failed with the bat but then picked up a brace of vital wickets, as Melbourne Renegades posted their first win of the Women’s Big Bash League with a dominant 81-run win over Adelaide Strikers.

The stylish right-hander managed only 12 but Courtney Webb top-scored with 49 not out from 34 balls while Indian batting star Harmanpreet Kaur chipped in with an unbeaten 43 from 33 deliveries, to propel Renegades up to 167 for three off their 20 overs.

In reply, Strikers were humbled for 86 in the 15th over, Matthews claiming two for 20 from her three overs to be one of four bowlers – Kaur (2-11), Ella Hayward (2-18), Georgia Wareham

Melbourne Renegades’ West Indies star Hayley Matthews.

(2-23) – with two wickets.

Captain Tahlia McGrath led with 31 from 25 deliveries but Matthews knocked her over in the 12th over to trigger a terminal slide.

Renegades lie third in the eight-team standings but are one of five sides on two

points, including Strikers who are fourth.

Unbeaten Brisbane Heat, who beat Renegades in their opening game last week, top the standings with four points.

Sent in at Junction Oval, Renegades lost Matthews

in the third over to a return catch by off-spinner Georgia Adams, with 19 runs on the board.

However, England opener Tammy Beaumont (30) and Josephine Dooley (23) put on 51 for the second wicket before Web and Kaur combined in an unbroken 93-run, fourth wicket partnership to rally the back end.

Renegades then held the advantage when 20-yearold off-spinner Hayward knocked over both openers – South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt (14) and Katie Mack (3) – cheaply but McGrath hauled her side back into contention with a knock that included four fours and a six.

Once she lofted Matthews into the lap of deep mid-wicket, however, Strikers lost their last seven wickets for 21 runs.

GCA’s NBS second-division 40 overs competition

Lovell’s all-round showing leads GCC to big win … GDF fires out police in military battle

By Sean Devers

THE latest round of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) New Building Society (NBS) second-division 40-over cricket tournament continued on Saturday with the GDF and GCC registering victories.

At the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground, the home team defeated Transport Sports Club (TSC) by 10 runs after being bowled out for 169 in 31-5 overs and dismissing TSC for 159 in 29. 4 overs.

Leon Andrews hit 34 from 37 balls with three fours and along with Quincy McPherson, who made 55 from 50 balls with two fours and three sixes, gave the soldiers a good start putting together 73 in 9.5 overs before Andrews fell to Raffel Singh.

Damion Waldron contributed with 44 from 38 balls with one four and three sixes, but no other batter reached double T S C ’ s o f f - s p i n n e r figures.

Myhiem Khan captured Myhiem Khan took 4-14 on Saturday.

4-14, while Akeem Redman took two wickets each for TSC who fell 10 short, despite 38 from 44 balls with four fours and a six from Alvin Mohabir, 22 from Redman and 19 from Emmanuel Lewis.

Joshua Jones had 3-29 while Waldron, Zameer Nazeer and DeShawn McDonald supported with two wickets each.

At Bourda, GCC beat Ace Warriors by 162 runs after a fantastic all-round performance from Thaddeus Lovell, who blasted seven fours and three sixes in an explosive 36-ball 64 before returning with the ball to take 5-27.

Thaddeus Lovell scored Lovell was support64 before taking 5-27 for ed by Ryan Hemraj who GCC on Saturday. made 31, Dhanesh Persaud 28 not out and Shahid Vieira who scored 22.

Roger Aarons captured 3-43 while Diquan Murray 2-11 bowled well for Ace Warriors, who were dismissed for 132 in 23 overs.

Rawle Enmore topscored with 32, but only Lawrence Pellew with 20 offered resistance as Josh Charles who took 3-29 supported Lovell for the Bourda Boys.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Janet Jagan Schoolgirls windball cricket c/ship opened by Sports Minister Ramson

By Sean Devers

year there are teams from all over the Country while there are no schools from the City involved.

Also speaking was Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle who this tournament, named after Guyana’s only female President, was aptly named since Janet Jagan fought for Democracy.

“She is someone who ‘mothered’ this country in some of its more difficult times. I say that to say this… you would find during the course of this competition difficult times, but you must be able to fight on as Mrs Jagan did to make sure that your team comes out as a winner” I am very happy that is for females alone because of the fact that there are not many things put aside and specialised. We should give the organisers a round of applause for this” continued the DS who noted that every year the competition is improving in development.

Commissioner of the NSC Chateram Ramdihal while Assistant Director of Sport Franklyn Wilson performedthe duties of Master of Ceremonies.

DESPITE the late notice, yesterday at the National Gymnasium the One Guyana Janet Jagan Birth Anniversary School Girls Windball Cricket Championships was officially launched by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. Minister Ramson told the gathering of 16 Secondary schools from all three counties in Guyana that it was because Janet Jagan was the first and only President of Guyana that this competition was named after her.

“That is one of the reasons we made this a girls-only competition for you are associating with someone…

Janet Jagan… who has done so many things for this country over many, many decades.

So that you can know that you can go all the way to the top and can do anything that a male can do that you can’t do or even do better” Minister Ramson said.

“Over the next few weeks you are participating in this tournament you will be able to play against each other but at the same time, you have to

learn to play with each other.

In team sports, you have to learn to work with each other and at the same time learn how to win.

The teams that are the most united, and cohesive, all together, are the ones best able to win.

At our Ministry, we focus on building a strong team and lead, because girls can also lead” posited Minister Ramson.

Ramson, who played first-division cricket for Everest, told the girls that there would be a special prize for the top two teams.

“I want you to explore the Country a little bit so we give you a trip to Fort Zeelandia where you can go as a group.

So you will have a guided tour for the entire day… you are going to go on a boat, to the Fort, Museum and get a history lesson and you take

pictures and put them on your Facebook” The Minister added before facing the first ball to declare the tournament open.

The organiser of the National Sports Commission (NSC) school girls' Windball cricket competition; Allister Munroe, informed that Windball cricket was first organised 31 years ago and disclosed that students in the past were given

ST AUGUSTINE, Trinidad, (CMC) – Captain Nyeem Young’s maiden List A fifty rescued West Indies Academy but bad weather eventually intervened to wreck their Super50 Cup match against Barbados Pride here Monday.

With the innings in the doldrums at 31 for five in the 13th over, Young arrived at the crease to lead a recovery, the right-hander blasting an unbeaten 67 from 89 balls to help lift the WI Academy to 141 for six in the 39th.

Kevin Wickham chipped in with 43 from 61 balls but more significantly, helping to mount a critical 93-run, sixth wicket partnership with Young.

With the innings headed for an interesting finish, the

rains arrived to rule out any further chance of play at the Frank Worrell Memorial Ground.

Seamers Dominic Drakes (2-10) and Jair McAllister (2-15) grabbed a brace of wickets to do the early damage for Pride.

Sent in, WI Academy were in turmoil from the outset, Drakes and McAllister wiping out the top order quickly.

Kimani Melius (9) drove the first ball of the morning’s sixth over from Drakes uppishly to cover where Shamarh Brooks took a waist-high catch, and Leonardo Julien followed in the eighth without scoring, nicking a drive at Drakes to be taken behind.

With no runs added, Matthew Nandu (8) pulled

a short ball from McAllister and was caught at square leg at 22 for three and Teddy Bishop also fell to the same bowler in the 11th over, pulling another short ball to short mid-wicket at 25 for four.

When Ackeem Auguste perished for three, slicing a loose full toss to cover point in the 13th, the WI Academy innings was in tatters.

However, Young counter-attacked bravely, punching two fours and four sixes while Wickham supported well, striking two fours, to put Pride on the back foot for the first time.

The partnership was frustrating the Pride bowlers when Wickham top-edged a slow sweep at off-spinner Roston Chase and was taken in the deep.

West Indies Academy captain Nyeem Young hits down the ground during his maiden List A half-century on Monday. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

Officials pose with students of President’s College at yesterday’s launch the opportunity to participate in the West Indies Championships.

“From this tournament, we will select the players for the 2024 West Indies Windball tournament scheduled for Barbados.

He thanked his colleagues in NSC for the late push to ensure that this tournament is staged. Munroe stated the emphasis was usually on the Georgetown teams, but this

Young fireworks quenched by rain

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 24, 2023

‘Sardar of Spin’: Former India captain Bishan Singh Bedi dies at 77

BISHAN Singh Bedi, former India captain and one of the greatest left-arm spinners, died on Monday at the age of 77 after battling prolonged illness.

Bedi is survived by his wife Anju, son Angad and daughter Neha.

“He breathed his last at his home this morning. He recently underwent a knee operation. The infection spread and he could not recover from that,” said one of his close friends.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence on Bedi’s demise.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of noted cricketer Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His passion for the sport was unwavering and his exemplary bowling performances led India to numerous memorable victories. He will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” Modi wrote on ‘X’,

formerly twitter.

Born in Amritsar in 1946, Bedi played 67 Tests for India and took 266 wickets with 14 five-wicket hauls and one 10-wicket haul.

He was the part of Indian cricket’s golden quartet of spinners that also had Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chadrasekhar and Srinivas Venkataraghavan. They formed the core of India’s bowling unit for more than a decade between 1966 and 1978.

Bedi was briefly the manager of the Indian cricket team in 1990 during tours of New Zealand and England.

He was also a national selector and mentor to many talented spinners like Maninder Singh, Sunil Joshi and Murali Kartik, who all swore by his technical insight.

Bedi was one of the most admired Indian captains and he led the team for nearly four years in Test cricket between 1975 and 1979 after Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi’s

Bishan Singh Bedi dead at 77. He was the part of Indian cricket’s golden quartet of spinners. retirement.

Throughout his life, he remained anti-establishment and his views often ruffled the feathers of those in power.

He was the longest serving Delhi Ranji team captain from 1974 to 1982 and under him the team became a force to reckon with national cricket circuit.

Condolences poured in on social media as the news

of his death became public.

The ICC expressed its sadness at the passing of former India captain. In a statement, ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice extolled the qualities of spin legend Bedi, saying he was one of the masters of flight and turn who would be remembered for years to come.

“It’s sad to hear of the passing of Bishan Bedi. I

would like to extend heartfelt condolences from everyone at the ICC to the family of one of the greats of the game and one whose exploits in Test cricket will be remembered for a long time. He was the kind of spinner who could excel in different conditions and would have been one of the greats in any era,” Allardice said.

The Indian cricket fraternity also expressed its grief.

“Extremely saddened by the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. His immense contribution to cricket will forever be remembered. May god give strength to his family and loved ones!,” former India opener Gautam Gambhir wrote on X. R Ashwin also took to X to express his condolence.

“Sad to hear about the demise of the great Bishen Singh Bedi, apart from being a great cricketer, he was an affable person and went the extra mile to help young cricketers,” Ashwin wrote.

Former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin also posted his tribute. “I’m sorry to hear about Bishan Singh Bedi sir’s passing away.

Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace,” he wrote.

“Sad to hear the demise of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi.

Indian Cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler and his impeccable character. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah wrote on ‘X’.

Former BCCI acting president CK Khanna also expressed his grief at Bedi’s demise. “It was an honour to have known Bishan ji for so many years. Indian cricket will certainly be poorer due to his death,” Khanna said. (The Tribune)

with The Hundred, meaning the newest faces in Jos Buttler’s side – Harry Brook and Gus Atkinson – have barely played the format and are effectively learning it on a global platform.

Root is uneasy with that situation and believes if ODI cricket is to continue, radical steps may be necessary.

The Hundred has significant critics, as a form of the game that is not played anywhere other than England, but Root has put forward the T20 Blast – reliably popular among counties and county members – as a potential sacrifice.

“It doesn’t make me change my mind about The Hundred. It makes me question whether we should be playing more 50-over cricket instead of T20,” he said, before backing away slightly from what is a thorny conundrum with no easy solution.

“But I don’t want to get into a debate about this. I don’t want it to be seen as an excuse (for under performing) because that’s not what we’re about as a team. That’s not how I look at things, but I haven’t got any good argument for anything else.”

While matters of global infrastructure and interna-

tional scheduling are sure to continue, England have more immediate problems after their unexpected run of adverse results which, thanks to Afghanistan’s shock win over Pakistan on Monday, have left them rock bottom of the table.

Thursday’s game against Sri Lanka is must-win to uphold any realistic hopes of reaching the knockouts and Root is hoping the door-die scenario can kickstart a revival.

“We’ll look at that as a World Cup final now, then do the same for the game after that and the game after that,” he said.

“I’ve played in a number of different England teams – good ones and bad ones.

This is one of the very best; it’s a very together team and we know what we need to do.

“This white-ball team, over an eight-year period now, likes very simple messaging and has responded very well to it.

We’ve got some very simple messaging in front of us right now: we have to go out and win. In some ways that unshackles us and frees us up to do what we do.”(Sportsmax).

Joe Root acknowledges growing uncertainty surrounding future of ODI cricket

ENGLAND’s Joe Root admits doubts over whether ODI cricket remains “relevant” have not gone unnoticed by players at the World Cup in India, with scrutiny increasing over the future of the format.

The defending champions have been in desperate form at the tournament, losing three of their four matches to leave their semi-final prospects dangling by a thread, but there are wider questions over the 50-over game as the T20 behemoth continues to grow unchecked.

Barring a few outliers, including a lively crowd for England’s loss to Afghanistan in Delhi, attendances have been well below expectations in a country renowned for its passionate support and the lack of close finishes has contributed to a lack of ‘buzz’ at the competition.

The PA news agency understands there are early signs of concern at host broadcaster Star Sports and The Cricketer has reported that the long-range prospects of the one-day game will be discussed at the International Cricket Council’s next board meeting in November.

ICC chair Greg Barclay

has already said the success of the event can only be judged once it is complete and sources have rebuffed the idea that the format is under threat. They cite long-term rights deals that include 50over World Cups in 2027 and 2031 and record streaming figures of 43million viewers during India’s victory over New Zealand on Sunday.

In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports has a direct agreement with the ICC running for the next eight years, including both of those World Cups.

But Root, speaking at England’s team hotel in Bengaluru, acknowledged the growing sense of uncertainty.

“There’s talk of whether this format is relevant any more anyway, in international cricket,” said Root, who helped England win their first World Cup title in 2019.

“Whether that gets changed…I don’t know. Who knows how things move in the future? Whether it’s domestically or internationally, I don’t think we play enough of it if we’re going to continue to look to compete in World Cups.

“I think it’s got a huge amount of history and it

England batter Joe Root walks back after he was dismissed against South Africa. brings a lot to cricket. It will always hold a very special part of my heart for what it’s given me throughout my career, but I think it’s a question that should be posed to the next generation of players, and to everyone watching the game, really.

“It shouldn’t be down to, ‘is it bringing the most money for the sport?’ It should be down to what people want to watch, and what’s going to engage the next generation of

players. Because in the long term, I think that’s going to be most beneficial for cricket all-round.”

The issue is acute in England, where the legacy of becoming world champions in the format has been a downgrading of the domestic competition to developmental status.

The Metro Bank One-Day Cup is now contested largely by emerging players and second-teamers due to its clash

Sherfane Rutherford struck eight towering sixes (Photo: CWI Media)

Rutherford unbeaten century propels Harpy Eagles run chase

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC )– Sherfane Rutherford plundered a brilliant maiden List A hundred as Guyana Harpy Eagles completed a delicate run chase to beat Leeward Islands Hurricanes by four wickets in the Super50 Cup here Monday.

The left-hander, more known for his exploits in the shortest format, topscored with an unbeaten 105 from just 71 balls, a knock which helped Harpy Eagles overhaul 245 with 15 balls to spare at Queen’s Park Oval, and pick up their second win in three outings.

Rutherford entered with the game slipping away from Harpy Eagles at 108 for five in the 28th over, and proceeded to change the entire complexion of the contest.

He clobbered seven fours and eight sixes, dominating a 67-run, sixth run stand with Kevlon Anderson (32) and a 73-run, unbroken seventh wicket partnership with all-rounder Romario Shepherd (18 not out).

Along the way, Rutherford raced to his 50 off 34 balls in the 37th over, cutting pacer Justin Greaves to the backward point boundary to bring up the landmark.

And he required another 35 balls to reach triple figures, clipping the same bowler to the long leg boundary at the start of the 48th over to reach the milestone, and also level the scores in the game.

He celebrated two balls later by hitting the winning runs, lifting a full toss to the extra cover boundary.

Earlier, Hurricanes rallied to 244 for six off their 50 overs with both Karima Gore and Jahmar Hamilton top-scoring with 54.

Hayden Walsh extended his good

recent form with 49, while Keacy Carty chipped in with 29.

Left-hander Kieran Powell perished to the fourth delivery of the morning when he pulled pacer Shepherd (2-45) and was taken low down at square leg for four with as many runs on the board.

Carty and Kofi James (13) put on 45 for the second wicket before leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul (2-49) plucked out both in quick succession, to leave the innings stumbling on 60 for three at the start of the 17th.

Gore and Hamilton then stitched the innings back together. The 25-year-old Gore faced 72 balls and struck three fours and one six, putting on 81 for the fourth wicket with Walsh who belted seven fours in a 56-ball knock.

Gore added a further 36 for the fifth wicket with Hamilton who then controlled the back end, counting three fours and a six in a 52-ball innings as he posted 44 in an unbroken seventh wicket partnership with Greaves (15 not out).

In reply, Test left-hander Tagenarine Chanderpaul fell cheaply for one with the score on 21 in the fifth over but Imlach and Kemol Savory (28) added a breezy 49 for the second wicket to stabilse the innings.

Imlach struck four fours and a six in a 28-ball knock while Savory faced 46 deliveries and counted four boundaries, before both fell in a cluster of wickets which saw three tumble for seven runs in the space of 29 balls.

Tottering on 77 for four in the 19th, Anderson put on 31 for the fifth with Kevin Sinclair (12) before Rutherford unveiled his magic.

Allicock falls to USA’s Harvey in quarter-final

… Pan American Games in Chile

ON Monday, American Jahmal Harvey secured a unanimous-decision victory over Guyana’s Keevin Allicock at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile.

Allicock, Guyana’s last remaining hope for a medal in boxing, had the judges scores at 27-30, 29-28, 30-27, 30-27, and 30-27.

Harvey, who won gold at the 2021 World Championships in the Featherweight division, had drawn a bye in the round of 16.

The last boxing medal for Guyana at the Pan Am Games was secured by Clive Atwell, who earned a bronze in the Men’s 54kg category at the 2007 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Before the aforementioned, Guyana had won two bronze medals in the 1991 Games in Havana, Cuba, via Terrence Poole (81kg) and Stephan Rose (51kg).

Poole is the current national coach.

SWIMMING Olympian Aleka Persaud clocked 1:00.96s to finish second in Heat 1 of the 100m Freestyle.

The race was won by Grenadian Tilly Collymore (59.87s), but unfortunately, neither of the two progressed to the top 16.

American Amy Fulmer (54.78s) had the fastest qualifying time.

Persaud had entered the race with a time of 1:00.67s -- the current national record.

A day prior, she lowered the national record in the 100m butterfly event.

She will compete in the 50m Freestyle today from 09:01hrs.

Meanwhile, Raekwon Noel clocked 8:34.68s to finish third in his 800m Freestyle. It was way slower than his entry time of 8:29.52.

Brazilian Guilherme Costa clocked a new Pan-Am record of 7:53.01s to win gold.

Keevin Allicock (blue) battling for Guyana at the Pan American Games in Chile (Photo: Guyana Olympic Association/Akeem Greene)

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2023