Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 26-10-2023

THURSDAY 26th October, 2023

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VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107245

Electoral Fraud Case: Special Prosecutor awaits Chancellor’s guidance 10 PAGE

CARICOM rejects Venezuela’s proposed –– Calls for respect referendum on Essequibo of international law 03 PAGE

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, while being flanked by students, cuts the ceremonial ribbon to the two-storey building that can accommodate approximately 100 students

Despite delays in Panama, new $85M Ms. Avril Other nations should Labour Ministry Crawford Block replicate Guyana’s expands services Demerara River Bridge to commissioned with $8M office be completed by end of 2024 at St. Winefride’s development model in Better Hope 12 PAGE

–– temporary bridge is 70 per cent completed

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Secondary

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–– UN Resident Rep. says, believes country provides sustainable strategies for achieving global goals

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–– Min. Hamilton promotes land acquisition for young people by joining the neighbourhood Co-op

AIEP programme boasts 70% success rate in producing young business owners 05 PAGE

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Gov’t urges responsible content delivery from broadcasters MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy has underscored the critical role of broadcasting entities in Guyana, urging them to uphold the highest standards of responsibility.

The minister was, on Wednesday morning, addressing a stakeholders’

forum at the Herdmanston Lodge.

Minister McCoy emphasised the need for broadcasters to operate at a level that garners admiration both locally and internationally.

“We try to work with our broadcasters but then as we think about where we need to be as a society and how much improvement

we need in relation to our broadcasting landscape, you as individual broadcasters must think of how exactly ‘I can contribute to this particular responsibility of mine and development’, so that we can operate at the highest level in our society,” the public affairs minister encouraged.

Acknowledging the Guyana National Broad-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

casting Authority (GNBA), he commended its efforts in engaging stakeholders to elevate broadcasting standards.

As Guyana advances, Minister McCoy stressed the gravity of broadcasters’ responsibility to deliver content devoid of misinformation, disinformation, and incitement to violence.

Despite ongoing notifi-

cations of infractions, the minister expressed concern over recurrent lapses, as he reminded of the duty to educate, inform, and entertain responsibly, cautioning against misleading narratives on sensitive issues.

“We have a responsibility to our people to make sure that whatever we educate them on, we inform them about and we enter-

tain them with, are stuff that they can grow from, that can edify them, that could take them up intellectually,” he re-emphasised.

Assuring continued government support for GNBA, Minister McCoy affirmed the commitment to achieving and maintaining the highest broadcasting standards for the people of Guyana.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy sits with members of the GNBA Board

Min. McCoy unveils strategic reforms as gov’t moves to centralise information flow IN a momentous development, Minister Kwame McCoy, who is responsible for Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, declared intentions to consolidate information from a range of government agencies.

Addressing communication personnel at a Communication Refresher Training course hosted on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, at Liliendaal,

Minister McCoy outlined the forthcoming changes aimed at creating a more coordinated and strategic government communication apparatus.

Minister McCoy emphasised the broader vision, stating, “This is just one part of what we need to do in terms of working with our communication and public relations officers in the respective ministries and agencies of government. From here, we will move into other areas

in relation to professional development and, more so, in terms of how we become more strategic integrating into the government communication apparatus.”

Currently, personnel operate within their agency mandates, but Minister McCoy foresees a more centralised approach to disseminating information about Guyana’s ongoing transformation for the benefit of the people.

Participants engaged in the Communication Refresher Training

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs Kwame McCoy as he addressed participants at a Communication Refresher Training course Detailing the plan fur- sured participants that indi- noting, “You have our conther, he highlighted the need viduals within the system fidence that you are at least to correct deficiencies in the would be guided through the willing to work, anxious system and move towards a adjustments. to be part of this team, and more coordinated style. The He underscored the working to make a differminister also emphasised the commitment to continu- ence. importance of timely reports ous investment in training Structural adjustments and a daily routine contribut- opportunities for the pro- are necessary to ensure ing to a central platform that fessional development of that we deliver better outlines plans and activities government communication results in line with the for each sector. personnel. strategic and integrative Anticipating rapid The public affairs minis- communication we envichanges by the end of the ter expressed confidence in sion for the citizens of this year, Minister McCoy as- the dedication of the team, country.”

CARICOM rejects Venezuela’s proposed referendum on Essequibo

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

–– Calls for respect of international law

THE following is a statement by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy: THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) notes the decision of the Venezuelan National Assembly to conduct a popular referendum on defending Venezuela’s claim of the Essequibo.

CARICOM further notes that two of the questions approved to be posed in the Referendum, if answered in the affirmative, would authorise the government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to embark on the annexation of territory, which constitutes part of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and to create a state within

Venezuela known as Guyana Essequibo.

CARICOM reaffirms that international law strictly prohibits the government of one State from unilaterally seizing, annexing or incorporating the territory of another state. An affirmative vote as aforesaid opens the door to the possible violation of this fundamental tenet of international law.

It is to be emphasised that the land and water in question — the Essequibo Region of Guyana — comprises more than two-thirds of the whole of Guyana itself.

CARICOM notes that the language of two questions approved to be posed in the Referendum seeks an affirmation and implementation

of Venezuela’s stance on the issue “by all means, according to/with the Law.” It is open to reasonable persons to conclude that “by all means”, includes means of force or war.

CARICOM earnestly hopes that Venezuela is not raising the prospect of using force or military means to get its own way in this controversy over territory. After all, it has been the long-standing position of Latin American and Caribbean countries, including Venezuela, that our region must remain a zone of peace.

Meanwhile, CARICOM insists that the Referendum proposed by Venezuela has no validity, bearing, or standing in international law in

relation to this controversy; the Referendum is a purely domestic construct, but its summary effect is likely to undermine peace, tranquility, security, and more, in our region.

CARICOM reiterates its support for the judicial process and expresses the hope that Venezuela will engage fully in that process before the International Court of Justice which has determined that it has the jurisdiction in the case brought before it to determine the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award which Venezuela questions.

The Court’s final decision will ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law.

First Lady sponsors mammograms for 222 women

ACKNOWLEDGING that early detection can reduce the risk of breast cancer, the Office of the First Lady, through a partnership with Dr Balwant Singh Hospital, will be providing free mammograms for 222 women who cannot afford the service.

First Lady Arya Ali handed over the vouchers to Founder of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, Bibi Hassan at a dinner hosted at State House on Tuesday evening for cancer patients, survivors, healthcare workers, and other partners, leading the fight against breast cancer.

“These will be made available through the Guyana Cancer Foundation and the Guyana Cancer Society. So, I hope this affords women who want to get screened but cannot afford it to do so.

And I hope this serves as an encouragement to other women, including some of us right here today, to get our mammograms,” the First Lady explained.

First Lady, Arya Ali handed over the vouchers to Founder of Guyana Cancer Foundation Bibi Hassan for cancer patients, survivors, healthcare workers, and other partners, leading the fight against breast cancer She also urged attendees to encourage their families and relatives to get mammograms to reduce their risks.

Meanwhile, Health

Minister Dr. Frank Anthony commended the First Lady for organising the event to raise awareness. Currently, the ministry is procuring three

mammogram machines that will aid in early detection.

The machines will be installed at various healthcare facilities

across the country, as the administration continues to implement preventative steps to lower the incidence of cancer locally.

“With breast cancer,

the government is working on doing several things including creating more access to mammograms and this month, we have a partnership with several private sector institutions including Balwant Singh Hospital, Mercy and the Cancer Institute and we have been giving out vouchers to make sure that women who want to do a mammogram can have that access to a mammogram,” Dr. Anthony stated.

Additionally, by next month, a telepathology programme will be launched at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The ministry is working along with the Mount Sinai Health System to develop this programme locally.

The health minister also emphasised the need for women and men to get vaccinated to prevent cervical cancer, which is also one of the leading cancers among women in Guyana.

Pinktober 2023 is themed, “Many Hands, Caring Hearts.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Middle Road murder: Businessman’s partner confesses, three in custody

IN a horrific turn of events after his arrest, businessman Yogeendra Sukhdeo has

allegedly confessed to the brutal murder and robbery of his business associate,

Amit Singh, with the help of his three employees.

S i n g h ’s b a t t e r e d

The stolen money recovered at Sukhdeo’s home

body was discovered on Tuesday at about 02:15 hours in a house at Middle Road La

Penitence, Georgetown.

Police preliminary investigations have revealed a sinister plot orchestrated by Sukhdeo and three of his employees who lured Singh into the home.

Their ruse? A promise of gold for sale, a fatal deception that would ultimately lead to Singh’s untimely demise.

According to the police, once inside the residence, the four suspects brutally murdered Amit Singh and wrapped his lifeless body in a sheet. Their acts of violence did not stop there, as they fled the scene with the cash he had brought with him to secure the non-existent gold.

In a final, haunting twist, the men locked the building, leaving Singh’s lifeless body hidden within.

“Based on intelligence received, ranks from the Criminal Investigations Department arrested one of the perpetrators. He [Sukhdeo] has since confessed to the crime and is assisting investigators as the investiga-

tion continues,” Sukhdeo, on We d n e s d a y m o r n ing, took detectives to his home at Lot 1896 20th Avenue Diamond Housing Scheme where a search was carried out in his room, and the sum of $7,790,000, all consisting of $5,000 bills was found and subsequently lodged.

The plot further thickened on Wednesday afternoon, when detectives tracked down the three suspects, who are employed by Sukhdeo, who reportedly owns a string of businesses, including El Dorado Mining and Security, El Dorado Construction Inc., El Dorado Landscaping Solutions, and El Dorado Luxury and Rentals.

The three men vehemently deny any involvement in Singh’s murder and have provided alibis detailing their whereabouts at the time of the crime.

Investigators are now meticulously examining and verifying these alibis to ascertain the truth as investigations are still ongoing.

Other nations should replicate Guyana’s development model

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

–– UN resident rep. says, believes country provides sustainable strategies for achieving global goals

By Naomi Parris

GUYANA’s development model is bolstered by a robust budgetary and planning framework, ensuring the proactive implementation of strategies and initiatives to meet global sustainability goals, according to United Nations Resident Representative Yesim Oruc.

Oruc, in a recent media engagement, asserted that other nations can adopt the country’s development model.

Eight years ago, member states gathered at the United Nations to adopt the Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs).

“Guyana has a development model which is very well pinned by a very strong budgetary and planning framework on the Global Goals [and] presents a lot of lessons learned for other countries.

In Guyana, the presentation on its own achievements for the SDGs there are some good practices there that other countries could emulate from budgeting from planning,” Oruc said.

Nations have committed to addressing global challenges related to poverty, access to food and water, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation,

THE government’s Agriculture Innovative and Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP) has led to more than 70 per cent of young agriculturists achieving success as agri-business owners.

This was disclosed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of One Guyana Agriculture Inc., Teesha Mangru Singh, the company implementing the programme.

According to Mangru-Singh, training is provided to agriculturists and qualified individuals in various areas, including soil production, seedling production, agronomical practices, and marketing and branding.

Agro-processing is the newest addition to the programme.

“We had been able to teach them everything, every step of the way, they are aware of … As persons benefit from the programme, they’re able to go and open their businesses and we encourage more persons to enter the programme, so it’s a rotational programme,” she explained to the Department of Public Information (DPI) recently.

Other successes of the programme, she relayed, include increasing domestic income for consumers by retailing non-native crops at a cheaper price. These include

United Nations Resident Representative Yesim Oruc peace, and justice.

These are part of 17 goals,

which are all interconnected.

In Guyana, particularly much focus has been placed on improving access to fresh and clean water, especially in vulnerable communities some of which are located in the hinterland regions of the country.

Referencing recent statistics provided by the Ministry of Housing and Water here, Oruc praised the country for its delivery of clean water to these communities.

It was reported that prior to August 2020, the hinterland coverage was only 46 per cent of the population. It has already been increased to 75 per cent by the end of 2022 and is tar-

geted to achieve 85 per cent by the end of 2023.

The delivery of water and sanitation is one of the many key targets set out by the UN. Oruc further proceeded to commend the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDs), a framework that delineates the nation’s intentions for climate and energy security.

She said: “When those plans are fully achieved, they will indeed present a great best practice and right now in terms of planning and budgetary practices… we do think there are very good practices that other countries of the region but also globally would be

worthy of replication and learning more of.”

In recent months, Guyana has received significant recognition for its work in championing climate, energy and food security.

In fact, the country was recently appointed by the commonwealth secretariat to develop a framework on climate change and forest preservation.

Guyana will be participating in the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference/ Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC also known as COP 28.

The country is expected to host a side event at the major conference.

cauliflower, broccoli, carrots romaine and iceberg lettuce.

“When we first took the market for cauliflower, imported cauliflower was retailing for around $1700 a pound. We retail for $500 a pound, so we’re making it accessible to the normal citizen,” she further explained.

Additionally, around 200 shade houses were erected for youth-based organisations across the country, increasing the involvement of more youths in the agriculture sector.

The AIEP initiative was launched by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali in January 2022, and is intended to stimulate and promote eco-

nomic growth and improve the lives 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.

Over 100 recent graduates from the University of Guyana and the Guyana School of Agriculture are participating in shade house farming, cultivating crops that are not indigenous to Guyana.

AIEP programme boasts 70% success rate in producing young business owners

Chief Executive Officer, One Guyana Agriculture Inc, Teesha Mangru-Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Guyana stands united

IN a world often marked by division and discord, the solidarity displayed by the government and opposition in Guyana is nothing short of remarkable.

These two political forces, which are typically at odds, have found common ground in defending their nation's territorial integrity against Venezuela's persistent claims.

This shared resolve reflects a profound commitment to safeguarding Guyana's sovereignty and is a testament to the strength of democratic principles in the face of external threats.

In discussing the latest actions by the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in pursuit of its spurious claim to the Essequibo territory of Guyana, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton from the outset, agreed that Guyana’s sovereignty is of paramount importance and

is a matter on which the Guyanese people are all completely united.

They condemned the flagrant violation of the rule of law by Venezuela and agreed that no effort should be spared to resist that country’s persistent endeavours to undermine Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

President Ali and the Leader of the Opposition agreed that the protection of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state must be sub served by a vigorous and comprehensive public relations programme and a proactive and robust diplomatic effort aimed at blunting Venezuelan propaganda and misinformation as they relate to the territorial controversy generally, and the Geneva Agreement in particular.

Venezuela's audacious and unfounded claims to a significant portion of Guyana's land, particularly the Essequibo

region, have been a source of tension for decades. The origins of this controversy can be traced back to the 19th century, but the situation escalated when the region became the center of attention due to Guyana's recent oil discoveries.

The territorial controversy has, regrettably, overshadowed the potential for regional cooperation and economic development.

The latest move by Venezuela to hold a referendum on December 3, 2023 on Guyana's land, is an alarming escalation in an already tense situation. The referendum is not only provocative but also entirely illegitimate.

Guyana's firm rejection of this maneuver is justified, as it is a blatant violation of international law and agreements, including the Geneva Agreement of 1966, which clearly established the framework for addressing the controversy.

Guyana's political lead-

ership, across party lines, has shown a united front in denouncing this attempt by Venezuela. The government and opposition's shared commitment to protecting their nation's territorial integrity sends a powerful message to the international community and highlights the significance of this issue. It demonstrates that in matters of national importance, political differences can be set aside for the greater good.

It is heartening to see that Guyana is not standing alone in this critical moment. The country has received strong support from its foreign and regional partners. These partners understand that the controversy over Guyana's territory is not merely a bilateral issue but one that has broader implications for regional stability, international norms, and the principles of sovereignty and self-determination.

Additionally, regional or-

Reflecting on October 24 Dear Editor, While October 24 may be just another day in the life of anyone and another date on the calendar, it also marks the birth (actor Kevin Kline) and death of many (Civil Rights Leader, Rosa Parks), stock markets plummeting (2008), total solar eclipse (1995) and other astrological events, and, it holds a global meaning with an international taste.

One such significance is Polio Day, October 24 being the day set aside to bring an awareness to this devastating and deadly disease and another reason for unity in the world to come together to prevent, fight and treat this infection.

Advocates are advising in order to help prevent this birth defect, not to hesitate but vaccinate, so, stop the strop and get a drop.

World River Dolphin Day/ International Day of Freshwater Dolphin is observed and celebrated every year on October 24 globally to raise awareness about dolphin conservation

and the need to protect their habitats. Right here in Guyana, in the Rupununi, Pink River dolphins are observed and being researched for their ecological role, habitat requirements, and potential threats to their survival.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942 coined the phrase “United Nations.” The UN was established after WW2 and on June 26, 1945, the charter was ratified and signed in October by China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, to formally establish the United Nations, the underlining reason being to avoid the world from experiencing such catastrophic monstrosities as occurred from WW1 and 2 and the cold war. October 24 is identified as United Nations Day to celebrate its success, an awareness of the aims and objectives and a reminder of its theme, “Equality, Freedom and Justice for All.” The 193 membership of the UN is headed by Secretary

General, Antonio Guterres, a former Prime Minister of Portugal. Guyana was elected to serve as a non-permanent member to the UN Security Council starting January 2024, and, will be part of the body responsible to maintain international peace and security for the next two years.

Hindus throughout the world, on the tenth day of Sharad Navratri, celebrate Vijayadashami, popularly known as Dussehra, Dasara or Dashain.

This year, October 24, symbolises the day of good over evil, a reminder of Lord Rama in battle, defeating the evil King Rawan, his son Meghnada and brother Kumbhkarana.

The nine nights festival designated to the Deity, Durga Ma in her manifestation of Parvati, Lakshmi and Saraswathi, also demonstrate the destruction of the demon, Mahishasura. This festivity includes the enactment of explosive effigies and accompanied with dance and songs and feasting with families and friends with kheer,

jalebi and ladoos.

The members of the Alexander Village Mandir were fortunate and privileged to have the company of His Excellency, Dr. Irfaan Ali and the Honorable Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, visiting and participating in the celebration of Navratri. The PPP/C government is tirelessly in the forefront, battling the evil in society and providing light over darkness. Divinity dominating deviousness demarcates the determination demanding prayers for peace and unity.

In a world consumed with the Ukraine/Russia drama and the Palestine/Israel saga, apart from sickness, poverty, climate change, autocracy, terrorism, corruption, discrimination, prejudice and other negativities, it leaves a vacuum for peace and security and sounds a timely call to demand the presence, protection and pronouncement of the UN, more profusely and prominently.

People, properties and places are being pulverized by

ganisations like CARICOM (the Caribbean Community) and the Organisation of American States (OAS) have voiced their support for Guyana's territorial integrity. Their unwavering commitment to upholding international law is vital in holding Venezuela accountable for its actions.

The defence of territorial integrity and sovereignty should transcend party lines and political differences.

Guyana's commitment to this principle is a shining example for democracies around the world.

As December 3, 2023, approaches, and with it, the date of Venezuela's illegitimate referendum, the world must stand with Guyana. The international community must support diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the territorial controversy peacefully, while making it clear that any attempts to infringe upon Guyana's sovereignty will

not be tolerated. Venezuela's actions are not just a threat to Guyana; they are a threat to the principles of international law and the sanctity of borders everywhere.

Guyana has since implored Venezuela to honour its obligation to pursue only peaceful means to settle any issue it may have with Guyana, including adjudication before the International Court Justice, where Guyana has sought confirmation of the land boundary between the two States. Allowing the court to decide would ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law.

In this critical moment, Guyana stands united, and the world should stand with Guyana in the defense of its territorial integrity and its right to determine its own future.

bombarding weapons of war without regard for children, civilians and hospitals. Dictatorship erodes the freedom of expression and the will of people.

The shortages of medicines and medical treatment remain an undisclosed priority. The causes and effects of climate change attributed to global warming is still being underplayed. Equitable distribution of wealth is more of a hindrance than a determinacy. Job security and food shortages remain unresolved for crucial survival.

The underworld activists and activities dominate financial stability. Education, human rights and justice still remain unavailable or denied in many quarters. The earth tremors not only from nature but also from the indignity of humanity.

While many leaders are seriously considering resolutions and solutions to remedy a hurt, burdened and tired situation, the UN is still tasked to continue to fight the battle of oppression and win the war of suppression. Armed with the flag of truce and assisted with the resources of the super powers, the United Nations is

guided by the principles of their three pillars: protect, respect and remedy.

These pillars lay the foundation for: democracy to prevail by achieving international peace and security, using diplomacy and dialogue; development to propel economic and social progress; and, foster respect for human rights. It is gratifying to hear and read the UN resident coordinator, the honorable Yesim Oruc, acknowledging that Guyana qualifies and is a supportive member, engaging in all three deportments, thus, contributing towards the UN agenda of duties and activities.

Guyana is reminded of the famous quote, “United we stand, divided we fall.” Dave Martin’s melody of “Not a blade of grass, not one curass,” is the appropriate response to any of Venezuela’s intimidation tactics. Guyanese across the board are rejoicing with the tune, “We are all completely united.” It is refreshing to hear as a relief, that the Government and the Opposition are on the same page finally and can see eye to eye, on a October 24.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Maduro’s game is as old as the sea

IF there is a free and fair election in Cuba today, the rival to the Communist Party will win. Generations of Cubans have grown up with justified anti-American sentiments because they saw how successive American presidents bullied their country.

The Castro brothers have milked those sentiments until the cow died. As early as 1983 when I was in Grenada, Cubans building the airport in Grenada, told me they dreamt of changes away from the dynasty of the Castro brothers. I think in later life, Fidel began to live as a delusional, faded rock star.

He couldn’t accept that the Fidel aura of the 1960s had evaporated. The Castro brothers have for decades told the Cuban people that the cause of Cuban’s stultified economy was the American embargo. But Castro has never held a referendum on anything in Cuba since he came to power in 1959. So he didn’t know if the Cuban people wanted a change.

President Maduro is less fortunate than the Cuban brothers. He has to call a general election next year that he will lose. This explains his December referendum on the Essequibo.

The Chavez charisma in Venezuela died when Chavez died. What Maduro has done since then is to rightfully blame successive American governments for the prolonged crises.

Wanting to remove Maduro, the Americans and their EU partners put severe sanctions on Maduro which were immoral and still are. It is similar to the embargo against Fidel after 1959. But as sanctions bite, after decades of living in deprivations people reach a breaking point. This is when Castro was no longer Cuba’s Fidel.

The world has every right to denounce what the US and EU did to Venezuela but the question in Venezuela is ‘can those sentiments help Maduro win the election next year?’ The Chinese and Russians and other big Third World states have enabled Venezuela to survive but still the issue facing the world is can Maduro win the election next year?

For me, I think he will lose because life in Venezuela is harsh, but we must not forget it was brought about because of traditional American undermining of Third World countries that they cannot control. Maduro has planned his referendum on the Essequibo for two reasons. One is that he has been forced by the Americans to negotiate a covenant with

the opposition parties in exchange for easing of sanctions.

This is the identical replica of Guyana in 1987. The Americans agreed to IMF bankrolling Guyana on the condition that the election system must be opened up. President Hoyte agreed and he lost. The second reason for the Essequibo referendum is as old as the world itself. Create a foreign war when your power is weak and the nation in jingoistic fashion will rally around you. President Biden in the US has done exactly that. Biden hopes to win re-election because of his extreme embrace of Israeli aggression.

Maduro will be facing Maria Machado in the election next year. She is way ahead of all opposition candidates and seems to have the potential to beat Maduro. She is banned from running for presidential office by the Maduro Government but in the recent covenant with the Americans, he may be pressured to lift the ban on her.

Maduro figures that if he uses the Essequibo bandwagon it will generate jingoistic emotions as we are now seeing in the US with Biden’s Israeli thing and believes the Venezuelans will turn to him and give him an election victory.

The similarity with Cuba is surreal. Cubans hated what the Americans did to them.

But they became so psychologically battered that they wanted a change from the communist party. That did not come because they cannot vote out the communist party.

The Essequibo referendum if it is won by Maduro will not catapult him to victory. The Venezuelan people are too psychologically drained from the American sanction that they will not have the mental capacity to vote for Maduro. Guyana has every right to be preoccupied with the referendum and the Guyanese people need to mobilise world leaders and world opinion on the Maduro madness.

Guyana just cannot take for granted that the Essequibo referendum is an election ploy.

Maduro is capable of doing crazy things to win the election next year. The Essequibo referendum is a manifestation of one of the oldest tales in international relations where fading leaders stir up foreign trouble to stay in power.

Despite the world’s attention on the Middle East, Guyana must begin the diplomatic war against Maduro ASAP.

GRA takes action against illicit imports

–– Weapons, narcotics found on US cargo flight IN a significant development on October 18, 2023, Customs Officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) made a substantial seizure of weapons and items believed to be narcotics.

These illicit items were found concealed within a barrel that arrived on an incoming cargo flight from the United States.

GRA noted that the vigilant Customs Officials, during their routine inspection at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri, made the alarming discovery.

The authorities swiftly acted on their findings, seizing the items and taking the shipping agent, who was present during the inspection, into custody. Subse-

quently, the shipping agent was handed over to both the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) for further investigations.

The seizure is part of an ongoing effort by GRA to combat the smuggling of refined narcotic drugs and other illicit items through personal consignments, including barrels, boxes, packages, suitcases, and containers at various ports of entry into Guyana.

The Guyana Revenue Authority issues a stern warning to anyone involved in or contemplating engaging in such illegal activities to cease and desist immediately.

Those found in violation of the law will be dealt with according to legal procedures.

To enhance these efforts, GRA calls upon the general public to report any illicit, unlawful, or smuggling activities by contacting its dedicated hotline at telephone number 227-6060.

Several extensions, including 3201, 3204, 3205, 3211, 3212, and 3408, are available to receive information. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and informants may be eligible for rewards in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

The Guyana Revenue Authority noted that it remains committed to safeguarding the nation from illegal activities and ensuring that the law is upheld at all ports of entry into the country.

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$1.5 billion of LCDS funds to benefit 75 Indigenous villages in Region One

IN accordance with the government’s commitment to advance Amerindian development, as stated in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, $1.5 billion of Guyana’s carbon credit monies will be distributed to 75 Amerindian settlements in Region One. The foregoing is part of the $4.7 billion that will be distributed to 242 Amerindian settlements, representing 15 per cent of Guyana’s total payout from Hess Corporation thus far.

Guyana has received its first payment for carbon credits under a deal signed with Hess Corporation in 2022, and US$75 million has been paid, which is the first payment of an arrangement worth a minimum of US$750 million until 2030.

Two further payments of US$37.5 million each will be made during 2023, bringing the total amount available for appropriation in this year’s National Budget to US$150 million.

The payment is the result of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing acknowledgment

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai at Region One’s Regional Toshaos/CDC Conference 2023

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal at the 2023 National Toshaos Council Conference 2023 of the critical role that Guyana’s forests play in not just the growth of the country but also in combating climate change globally.

Guyana has put out a vision for monetising the climatic and ecological services supplied by our standing forest while also driving the country’s economic development along a low-carbon trajectory, guided by the groundbreaking LCDS 2030.

While delivering the keynote address at the 2023 Regional Toshaos/CDC Chairpersons Conference in Mabaruma sub-district, Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, stated that this represents the government’s most substantial investment in the communities.

“This, for the first time, provides the highest level of finances available to villages from 2020,” the minister stated.

The financial assistance is an addendum to the multitude of government programmes.

Additionally, the village leaders were advised to adhere to the original list of priority projects, regardless of whether they were funded by the $3 billion supplemental funding available for the villages, the Presidential Grants, or the Community Development Project Investment Fund.

“No plan is static or cast in stone... when you want to change a project, you write to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and before you do that, it is discussed, deliberated upon, and approved at the village level for a project change. When you have that approval, you send it to the ministry.

Ultimately, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs is responsible for the funds,” Minister Sukhai explained.

She also emphasised to the leaders the need for accountability and transparency in the execution of their duties. According to the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, “Now that you have much more investments and funds, you must sit down and strategise on how you’re going to expend these funds to better your livelihoods and transform your villages, and that you should also be accountable.”

Also attending the meeting was Collin

Croal, the Minister of Housing and Water, who is in charge of Region One’s parliamentary supervision.

He emphasised that leaders need to start thinking collaboratively and acting seriously when handling the business of their own villages, reminding everyone that strong leadership is a skill that needs to be developed at all levels.

“If we want to start looking at a bigger picture for interventions for our villages, then we need to start speaking about a collective.

Speaking about individualism, you will not be able to achieve much; you won’t have strength in that regard,” he underscored.

This year’s conference is themed, “Transforming Our One Guyana and Building Sustainable Livelihoods through Empowerment, Accountability, and Transparency.”

The purpose of it is to give Native Amerindian leaders a chance to address issues that impact their communities at the regional level.

With the use of the LCDS funds, several indigenous communities throughout Guyana are constructing and investing in their people’s needs. In Region Eight, some of these communities are Pennak - the Information and Communication Technologies (lCT) hub is completed; Arasawa – their gas depot funded by the LCDS fund is completed and serving the residents, while their multi-purpose building is under construction; Waipa’s gas depot is approximately 90 per cent complete.

In Region Nine, Parabara community bought a ‘village vehicle’ that will be of use by their people; also in Region Eight, Katch Cow – the sewing project is under construction; the Kurukabaru – the multi-purpose building is almost 90 per cent competed; and in Region Nine, Toka Village is utilising part of its LCDS fund to purchase a mini-excavator that will serve the needs of the village – digging of trenches, stomp, and branch removal, to enable agriculture and food security activities, to better serve village needs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Giving Hope Foundation honours

cancer patients, survivors at annual gala

By Cindy Parkinson

IN observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Giving Hope Foundation (GHF) honoured cancer patients and survivors in grand fashion at their annual gala and dinner at the Ramada Hotel in Providence over the weekend.

While keeping with the theme of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, “Keeping Her in the Picture,” a call to everyone to look out for the well-being of the important women in their lives, the guest speaker and founder of the Giving Hope Foundation, Dr. Latoya Gooding, explained that her organisation embodies the essence of love and kindness.

As she reflected on the remarkable work of the foundation and how far the institution has come, Dr. Gooding noted that “we are reminded of the transformative power of empathy and support; founded on the principles of extending a helping hand to those in need; this foundation has become a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families.”

To date, Dr. Gooding said that collectively, the foundation has been able to help over 1,500 recipients with care and food hampers, over 500 Pap smears, 1,200 mammograms, and over 50 overseas pathologies tested at no cost to the individuals.

She added: “We have continued with workshops and events for cancer survivors and patients, nutritional sessions, physiotherapy, and cycle therapy for all our cancer patients and cancer survivors.

rekindle our commitment to do much more by reaching out and touching more hearts, wiping away more tears, and illuminating more lives, the doctor

riors and many untold stories.

For many who are facing a cancer diagnosis or any other illness or hardship, hearing from others who have

been through one already can be a great source of comfort and support.

It is the foundation’s hope that you will find inspiration in the stories

of cancer survivors.

The foundation would also like to thank the cancer warriors for their bravery and for sharing their stories.

Founder of the Giving Hope Foundation, Dr. Latoya Gooding

Through their collective effort, the doctor stated that the Giving Hope Foundation has empowered the underprivileged.

“With education and skills, we are offering them a pathway to a brighter future. With each life we touch and every smile we inspire, we affirm that commitment to making the world a better place,” the doctor explained.

She further stated that the Giving Hope Foundation stands as a testament to the boundless potential of the team when they come together with a shared purpose. Even in the face of adversity and challenges, the founder asked that compassion and determination be used to break down the barriers and build bridges for a brighter future.

Considering all that was mentioned, Dr. Gooding said the work of helping cancer patients and cancer survivors is far from over, with more dreams to fulfil, lives to change, and challenges to overcome.

As the nation celebrates the survivors’ achievements, as Guyanese, “we” should also

A section of the crowd at the Giving Hope Foundation gala

said.

As part of the night’s event, the GHF honoured survivors, held a mini fashion show, and had renditions of inspirational songs and poems. They also revealed their 3rd edition of the Giving Hope Foundation’s e-magazine, SURVIVOR. In the edition, the organisation shared more than 10 stories of hope from cancer survivors across Guyana. According to the magazine, surviving cancer can seem like an unreachable dream to someone who has just been diagnosed or who is in the middle of treatment.

It is important to remember that many, many people make it through cancer treatment and into remission, moving on to live full and healthy lives.

There are many war-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Electoral fraud case: Special prosecutor awaits chancellor’s guidance

By Clestine Juan

ON December 12, it is anticipated that Special Prosecutor Darshan Ramdhani will present to the court the guidance provided

by Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Yonette Cummings concerning the allocation of a specialised court for the electoral fraud case.

He was expected to present same on Wednesday before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly, who is presiding over the hearing at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court.

Ramdhani conveyed to the court that the Chancellor’s communication has been dispatched, and he awaits a response that will likely detail any advancements made in tackling the issue. This case has remained stagnant for three years due to its intricate nature and the extensive amount of evidence involved.

Ramdhani along with Attorneys-at-law Glen Hanoman, Mark Conway, Ganesh Hira, Arudranauth Gossai, and George Thomas are all on record for the State.

Attorneys-at-law Hughes, Eusi Anderson, Ronald Daniels and Konyo Sandiford are representing the defendants.

The electoral fraud case involves former District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo; former People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) Chairperson, Volda Lawrence; PNC/R activist Carol Smith-Joseph and four others.

The trio, along with Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Bobb-Cummings and Michelle Miller, are before the court for allegedly defrauding the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes for the 2020 elections.

During a case management conference (CMC) before Magistrate Daly on October 4, Ramdhani requested that all the matters be consolidated into one, as the underlying evidence stems from the same source.

Magistrate Daly noted her existing caseload and expressed doubts about accommo-

Special Prosecutor Darshan Ramdhani dating this request, as it might overburden the court further.

He offered to write to the Chancellor to discuss potential solutions and the appointment of a dedicated magistrate.

On Wednesday, Ramdhani informed the court that the letter was dispatched to the Chancellor and is currently awaiting her review on her desk, according to her assistant.

Ramdhani however, pointed out that the state is ready to proceed in whatever direction the case takes since the decision is ultimately up to the magistrate.

The magistrate pointed out that there are 24 charges before the court for the defendants, involving three different offenses and a substantial amount of evidence and statements.

To proceed with the trial, Magistrate Daly stressed the need to organise the evidence properly. Ramdhani assured the court of his willingness to assist in this regard.

Against the backdrop, the defendants’ attorney, Nigel Hughes, expressed concerns and contended that the Chancellor does not have jurisdiction to intervene at this stage.

Amidst accusations that the state was stalling the case, Ramdhani again clarified that the prosecution is prepared to commence their case.

Last year, the defence attorneys had made an application for the prosecution to drop some of the cases to expedite the proceedings.

Ramdhani had strongly objected to this proposal and reminded the court that the defendants’ lawyers had previously made such an application before the former Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, but it was rejected.

In dismissing the application, the Chief Magistrate had ordered that the case be heard expeditiously given its national importance.

PARTICULARS OF CHARGES It is alleged that Lawrence, Smith-Joseph, February, Livan, Bobb-Cummings and Miller between March 2 and August 2, 2020, at Georgetown, conspired with former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield and Mingo to defraud the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes cast in the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections.

Additionally, Miller was slapped with a separate charge which alleged that between March 3-5, 2020, at the GECOM Command Centre at Ashmin’s building on High and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown, she conspired with persons to defraud the people of Guyana by not using the figures from the Statements of Poll for the purpose of ascertaining the figures to make the declaration of the results for the said District Four, thereby resulting in a false declaration being made for the said district.

The defendants’ attorneys had previously argued for the case to be heard in the High Court, given the nature of the proceedings which they claimed might infringe on their client’s rights to a fair trial within a reasonable time.

Nevertheless, the Chief Magistrate ruled that despite the voluminous evidence and the complexity of the case, the court has been proceeding with the hearing of the case “expeditiously.”

The case was thereafter transferred to Magistrate Daly.

In August 2021, Mingo, along with Lowenfield and his then-deputy, Roxanne Myers, had their employment terminated by the commission.

It is alleged that the trio inflated or facilitated the inflation of results for Region Four, the country’s largest voting district, to give the APNU+AFC coalition a majority win at the polls when, in fact, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had won by 15,000 votes.

Those who rejected the results filed several legal challenges which ended up before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Guyana’s highest appeal court.

A lengthy recount of the votes eventually declared victory in favour of the PPP/C, and Dr. Irfaan Ali was sworn in as the President of Guyana on August 2, 2020.

Top row, from left: Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row, from left: Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

$85M Ms. Avril Crawford Block commissioned at St. Winefride’s Secondary THE new $85 million Ms. Avril Crawford Block was commissioned at the St. Winefride’s Secondary School, De Abreu St,

Georgetown, on Wednesday, by the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand.

The two-storey building

houses several classrooms and a modern, fully outfitted science laboratory. The new classrooms can accommodate approximately 100

students.

Delivering the feature address, Minister Manickchand stated that the Minister of Education is on

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand on Wednesday unveiled the state-of-the-art Ms. Avril Crawford Block at St. Winefride’s Secondary, which will accommodate over 100 students

One of the new classrooms in the Ms. Avril Crawford Block that was commissioned a mission to ensure each makers. child is comfortably acMeanwhile, St Winecommodated and has ac- fried’s Secondary School cess to a quality education. Headteacher, Ms. Rowena She noted that students Seymore, said that the new at the St. Winefride’s Sec- block brings great relief ondary School were attend- to both the administration ing school on a rotation and the students, as they due to the lack of accom- will serve to better accommodation and are now able modate classes, eliminatto attend school daily to ing the issue of cramped receive an education. The spaces.

Education Minister further The contract for this encouraged the students to block was signed in Nomake full use of the oppor- vember 2022, and awardtunities presented to them ed to Singh and Son’s and to become change- Construction.

Labour Ministry expands services with $8M office in Better Hope

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

–– Min. Hamilton promotes land acquisition for young people by joining the neighborhood co-op.

By Cindy Parkinson

TO mitigate the inconvenience of residents traveling from the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) to Georgetown for business purposes, the Guyana

“Usefulness in any regard is important; my grandmother taught me that there is dignity in labour; when you are useless, that’s a problem. Therefore, this office is a testament to what we have set out to do as

lised,” Minister Hamilton emphasised.

The Minister encouraged young people to get themselves registered and be members of a co-op society, which he said would be beneficial for them in the

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton and the Chief Recruitment and Manpower Officer, Youlanda Grant, cutting the ribbon at the New Ministry of Labour Office at Better Hope (DPI photo) government has set up a Ministry of Labour office in the Better Hope Community Centre Compound on the ECD, costing nearly $8M. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, explained that government and governance simply mean giving service to others and making a positive and meaningful impact on people’s lives.

Apart from the residents, the Minister explained that making the staff of any institution more comfortable is a “relevant and important factor” that is necessary in order to have a smooth flow of services.

a government. The co-op officer in this area is and will be very important to be here so that people can have access to them and would not have to come to Georgetown. Of course, occupation, safety, and health officer, we do not have an officer as yet for the East Coast, but one will be assigned; a labour officer has already been appointed to the East Coast,” he related.

Moreover, Minister Hamilton emphasised that the PPP/C government will not permit the co-op to maintain control over unproductive lands. “We will not, as a government, continue to have the co-op hold on to tens of thousands of acres of land that is unproductive and not uti-

future. “I would hope that young people understand that there is another way to get to the Promise Land other than lining up at the Ministry of Housing, and that is through your co-op.

You will never go wrong with the acquisition of land; land do not spoil; capitalise on the opportunities; and build your life.”

While there may be several distractions along the way of developing Guyana, Minister Hamilton added that initiatives such as these are what they have set out to accomplish.

According to him, “we have to keep our eyes on the ball; that is what we were assigned to do.” He also related that, whether they are ministers, heads of departments, or technical officers, “our role is to give service to the people.

That is what the Guyanese people expect, and for us in government.”

Minister Hamilton said that it is his hope that the new office will serve the people of the East Coast of Demerara, and “there shall be no excuse because we have spent a lot of money, almost eight million dollars, to refurbish this place, and therefore it must be used to give service to the people. The way you serve is not to sit down and wait for people to come; you

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, at the commissioning of the Ministry of Labour Better Hope Office on the East Coast of Demerara (DPI) have to go out and engage with them; that is how you give service.”

In response to a question from the Guyana Chronicle regarding citizens’ underutilisation of the government’s newly constructed regional offices, Minister Hamilton urged people to exhibit greater awareness of their surroundings. According to him, individuals must acquire knowledge through social media platforms or alternative means of

communication to remain informed about ongoing advancements. He said, “There are a lot of things that fail, but one of the main reasons is that people don’t take the public relations (PR) and communication aspects of it seriously.”

The technical departments of the Ministry of Labour will be housed in the Better Hope office, where coordination of the ministry’s essential services and initiatives will take place.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton and some other officials having a tour of the office (Cindy Parkinson photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Uniting hearts and hands: Mae’s Schools celebrates Breast Cancer survivors ANNALISA Matthews, a fifth-grade teacher at Mae's Schools, can still vividly recall the sorrowful expression on one

not just victims of the disease, but also their relatives and the affected children.

“Looking at her face really impacted me be-

Grade Five teacher at Mae’s Schools Annalisa Matthews

of her students’ faces.

The student confided in her about the heartbreaking loss of her grandmother who succumbed to Breast Cancer. It prompted her to consider the support required by

cause these children go about their daily lives but they also have feelings towards this to see their relatives go through it,” ‘Teacher Anna’ shared recently in context of the school’s annual Breast Cancer

awareness walk.

“I have my husband’s grandmother who had Breast Cancer and I saw what she faced and it was a terrible ordeal,” she further reflected. So when an opportunity came along to promote Breast Cancer education, Teacher Anna was happy to pursue it.

“I thought we needed to educate our children some more. I wanted to raise awareness in the school so that the children would know they need to support those going through that,” she shared.

For some years now, she has been coordinating the school’s cancer walk, which started as a very small event but grew with each passing year. This year’s walk around the school’s environs was the biggest one yet as parents were invited to join their children for the first time.

“We had the entire

complex participating, whereas before, it was just for nursery and primary; this year all the way up from playgroup to secondary took part,”

vivors.

“We also wanted boys to know that they can also get Breast Cancer. We just really wanted the chil-

not make it.”

Teacher Anna said that without the school’s proprietress, Mayfield French, the initiative would

Teachers and parents at the cancer walk last Friday

Teacher Anna shared with this publication.

Funds were raised to support two cancer sur-

This year’s walk around the school’s environs was the biggest one yet

dren to be aware and to have more appreciation for Breast Cancer survivors and those who did

not have been possible. French reportedly is supportive of these kinds of initiatives and does a lot of charity work behind the scenes.

Meanwhile, it all started when Mae’s Schools in Subryanville, Georgetown, helped the Guyana Cancer Foundation (GCF) to sell its pins and ribbons during Cancer awareness month. Gradually, the school began adding more and more activities to mark the occasion.

The Breast Cancer walk by students turned into an annual event, where the school would ask children and staff to wear pink on the designated day. Apart from conducting the walk, there would be cake for distribution, a photo booth, appropriate decorations, and a talk with children by their class teachers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Despite delays in Panama, new Demerara River Bridge to be completed by end of 2024 –– temporary bridge is 70 percent completed

By Cindy Parkinson

FOLLOWING his recent visit to multiple project sites on the East Bank of Demerara, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, conducted an unplanned visit to the New Demerara River Bridge on Monday, during which he engaged with the contracting team to receive an update on the project.

Patrick Thompson, the Chief Transport Officer, exclusively informed Minister Edghill and the Guyana

bridge from East to West.

This temporary bridge will play a crucial role in the construction of the permanent bridge.

Thompson provided an explanation that the temporary bridge, although nearly 70 percent complete, is being constructed entirely out of steel. Furthermore, he stated that the permanent bridge, known as the New Demerara Harbour Bridge, will be built using reinforced concrete. He further stated that “the temporary bridge is 70 percent complete, and works for the

of the river channel. According to his assertion, this is a necessary measure to ensure the reliability of the bridge’s cables. Thompson acknowledged that, although they were working within their schedule, they encountered some challenges that resulted in inconvenience. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic that, despite the setback, they are diligently striving to meet their deadline, set for the end of 2024.

“The biggest challenge that we are facing is the supply chain bringing all the maThe Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill (centre), the Chief Transport Officer, Patrick Thompson (minister’s immediate right), the consultant of Politecnica, and some of the members of the CRCCL contracting firm inspecting the temporary bridge (Delano Williams photo)

A view of the temporary bridge, which is 70 percent completed (Delano Williams photo) Chronicle that the construction of the temporary bridge is progressing smoothly. The Transport Officer has confirmed that China Railway Construction (International) Limited (CRCCL) is currently building a temporary

permanent bridge will begin in the same area.”

Furthermore, he divulged that the primary objective for the permanent bridge entails the creation of two towers, to be constructed on both the Eastern and opposite banks

terials from China to Guyana.

One of the major challenges that we have right now is that there is a constriction in the Panama Canal where there is a backlog of traffic. The containers that are bound for Georgetown are being

delayed for several weeks at Panama alone. Some of the other challenges are access to some materials, both fine and coarse aggregates,” he related.

The Chief Transport Officer elaborated that despite the abundance of fine sand in Guyana, the concrete’s durability necessitates coarse sand, which, regrettably, Guyana does not manufacture. He stated that given the project’s scale, the coarse sand needs to be brought in from abroad.

Ultimately, Thompson conveyed that once the New Demerara Harbour Bridge is finished, the provisional bridge will be disassembled and its materials repurposed for smaller bridges across the country where they are needed.

Following his conversation with Chief Transport Officer Patrick Thompson and the CRCCL contracting

firm team, the Minister of Public Works informed the Guyana Chronicle that he acknowledges the contractors’ limited control over certain challenges and assures that the government is actively striving for timely delivery.

According to him, “I am happy today to come on site, and have a first-hand look at what is happening based upon reports that I have been getting in office. It has been made very clear, and we want to show the nation that we are expecting this project to be on time and delivered on schedule. We are working with the contractor, and the consultant is here from Politecnica which is giving supervisory instructions to the contractor on behalf of the government of Guyana to ensure that we are keeping with all the timelines, and we are not going to sleep on this project or any other project until they are completed.”

The bridge is purpose-built to accommodate Handymax vessels, allowing them to pass underneath at a height of 50 meters, while ensuring a minimum horizontal width of 210 meters for navigation. However, the ultimate design is estimated to encompass a broader horizontal span.

The US$260 million New Demerara Harbour Bridge is a hybrid cable stay beam guarder concrete structure, constructed according to AASHTO specifications.

The 2.6-kilometre bridge will connect Nandy Park on the East Bank of Demerara to La Grange on the West Bank of Demerara.

The New Demerara Harbour Bridge, designed to last 100 years, has a width of 23.6 meters, including the median, shoulders, and four lanes, ensuring ample space for safe and efficient traffic flow.

Empowering Workplace Safety…

Joint training initiative benefits employees SEVENTEEN Global Edge Guyana employees on the Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee received certificates Tuesday morning for successfully completing a three-day Joint Workplace Safety and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Training Programme.

The aim of the pro-

gramme, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), is to train members of the Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee, and prepare them to carry out their mandate in the workplace, as required

by Chapter 99:06 of the Oc-

cupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act. It is also intended to equip representatives with the knowledge and skills needed to design and maintain safe work systems and techniques, thereby minimising or eliminating workplace accidents.

This would then allow participants to demonstrate an understanding of their roles

and responsibilities as Joint Workplace Safety Committee representatives.

Participants can now conduct workplace inspections, accident investigations, and adopt methods to control and/or eliminate hazards in their own workplaces. This includes the participants and the workplace receiving certification that would be valid

for one year.

During the ceremony, Joseph Hamilton, Minister of Labour told the gathering that their participation played a critical role to the ministry’s efforts to promote safe and healthy workplaces, and reduce work-related hazards amid the country’s development.

“We cannot build thou-

sands of houses, roads among others, and we are not discussing safety and health, hence your participation is important, because safety and health in Guyana is not an employer and employee problem; it is a national problem,” he explained.

With this in mind, the See page 15

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

30 more ranks trained to tackle gender-based violence

IN alignment with the Guyana Government’s mission to decrease crime, particularly those of a gender-based nature, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, successfully completed another round of CopSquad training on Tuesday. This initiative provided training to 30 Police officers.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Mr Ravindradat Budhram, and Representatives from the UN and EU were among those attending the closing ceremony which saw the ranks who completed the CopSquad training receiving certificates.

In an interview with this publication, Deputy Commissioner (Operations), Ravindradat Budhram, spoke on confidentiality, respect for victims, attendance to all reports, and cooperating with the relevant stakeholders when investigating gender-based issues.

The Deputy Commissioner underlined the significance of maintaining strict confi-

tial patterns of gender-based violence and preventing escalation. Data-driven approaches have proven effective in assessing the prevalence and nature of such crimes, ultimately guiding law enforcement’s response.

Lastly, Mr. Budhram highlighted the importance of cooperation with relevant stakeholders in tackling gender-based issues. “Research has consistently shown that a multidisciplinary approach, involving partnerships with

Deputy Commissioner (Operations), Ravindradat Budhram, hands over a certificate to one of the many ranks that successfully completed another round of CopSquad training dentiality when dealing with gender-based issues.

He emphasised that this approach is supported by research and data, which consistently show that victims are more likely to come forward and report instances of gender-based violence when they have confidence in the confidentiality of the process.

Mr. Budhram also stressed the importance of re-

specting the privacy and dignity of victims, citing studies that reveal how survivors’ willingness to engage with law enforcement and support services is significantly higher when their autonomy and confidentiality are upheld.

Additionally, he pointed to research indicating that attending to all reports, even seemingly minor ones, is essential in identifying poten-

Joint training initiative ...

From page 14

Minister stated that since taking office in 2020, a comprehensive and holistic approach to protecting the lives of public and private workers in the country has been implemented.

To supplement this, Minister Hamilton stated that he is now reviewing the OSH Act to ensure that the ministry can adopt tighter restrictions and pun-

ishments for individuals who do not abide by safety and health procedures.

Meanwhile, Country Manager of Global E.D.G.E Abdool Azis described the training as transformative, as he commended the OSH Department for its input.

“It demonstrates clearly the government’s commitment to ensuring it is developed and apprised of the key role they play in the

dynamic and ever-changing environment known as the workplace,” Azis noted.

Also present at the ceremony were OSH Consultant Ms. Gweneth King; Senior Labour Officer Mr. Prandatt Basdeo; OSH officers Ms. Neza King and Mr. Darwin Bourne, and Country Manager of Global E.D.G.E Mr. Abdool Azis among other officials.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton (seated centre) with other officials and graduates of the three-day Joint Workplace Safety and NIS training programme

organisations and agencies specialising in gender-based violence prevention and victim support, leads to more effective and comprehensive solutions.”

He explained that, by integrating these principles, which are supported by research and data, law enforcement can better address gender-based issues and work towards the government’s mission to reduce such crimes in Guyana.

Minister of Human Ser-

vices and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, had noted that the initiative seeks to ensure that once a domestic violence matter is brought to a police station, it will be handled in a manner that accords with international best practices.

The training deals with interrogation, assessment of safety, how to counsel and respond to people who come to make complaints, and reports of domestic violence.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Embracing Patience: Jehovah’s Witnesses welcome all to interactive meetings STUCK in traffic when running late, standing in a long line, waiting for a webpage to load - all can be extremely frustrating. Patience is the key to staying calm.

But how can patience be practiced in an increasingly impatient world?

Following their flagship “Exercise Patience”! conventions, Jehovah’s Witnesses are welcoming all in the community to consider the topic of patience in greater depth as part of their regularly scheduled congregation meeting held the weekend of October 28-29, 2023.

The meetings, open to the public, will feature an article on the topic titled “Continue to Be Patient,” now available on their official website, jw.org.

“Life is so fast-paced nowadays. It’s difficult to slow down or even wait for anything,” said Local Spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses Andre Darrell. “We’re asking our community to take a moment to join us and experience some peace as we show our love

Jehovah’s Witnesses are welcoming persons to consider the topic of patience in greater depth as part of their regularly scheduled congregation meeting held on the weekend of October 28-29 for them and God. We invite all to come and learn how Bible teachings are practical for daily living.”

While the “Exercise Patience”! conventions drew thousands of people to venues worldwide, the “Continue to Be Patient” article will be reviewed in a more intimate and interactive setting. This is an opportunity for the public to visit Kingdom Halls throughout Guyana where local congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses gather to worship.

The “Continue to Be Patient” article follows a 30-minute Bible-based public talk.

The 60-minute article discussion allows for audience comments, much like a classroom setting.

Topics that will be considered include: What Does It Mean to Be Patient? Why Patience Is So Important? How to Develop More Patience? The article also mentions the benefits of patience: A happier, calmer life, improved mental and physical health, and better relationships.

The Persaud family looks forward to these weekly discussions where everyone, regardless of age, learns together. “The time-

ly articles help maintain peace in our family and provide real solutions from the Bible,” said Loen Persaud. “I love how my husband and I can sit together with our Sons and can all participate. We really bond as a family when we do this.”

The article was published in the August 2023 Study Edition of the Watchtower magazine and is available for free download on jw.org. To download: visit jw.org > search Continue to Be Patient. Hard copies are also available at no charge at the meetings.

All conventions and congregation meetings of Jehovah’s Witnesses are open to the public, seats are free, and no collections are ever taken.

To find a meeting near you, visit jw.org > About Us > Meetings. To look inside a Kingdom Hall, watch the video titled: What Happens at a Kingdom Hall on the same page.

For more information, please visit jw.org or contact Andre Darrell on 6179089 or adarrell@jw.org.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

24 band corps ranks finish grade three musician course

TWENTY-FOUR ranks of the Band Corps have successfully completed the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Grade Three Musician Course.

The ten-week course covered various areas, including values, bar lines, time signatures, notes on stave, instrumental studies, band drills, tonic triads, performance directions, rests, ties, dots, accidentals, semitones, and tones, among others.

The ranks are now equipped with the knowledge

and skills to effectively and efficiently function within the GDF Military Band.

Warrant Officer Class Two, Maurees Skeete, copped the prize for Best Graduating Student. Privates Jamal Spencer and Martin McGarrell claimed the prizes for Runner-up Student and Best Instrumentalist, respectively.

Staff Officer One General Eight (SO1G8), Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Ramnauth Parsram, in brief remarks to the graduates, urged them

to continue practising and improving their mastery of their musical instruments. He expressed the hope that they would continue to serve in the Band Corps throughout their careers and never lose their love for music.

Meanwhile, 13 ranks of the Guyana National Reserve have completed the introductory phase of the musician course and will continue training and practical assessments to bring them up to the required musical standard.

The Band Corps had 24 ranks complete the GDF Grade Three Musician Course

Amerindian Empowerment: Apoteri receives first Carbon Credit payment

THE Amerindian village of Apoteri, Region Nine has so far received $15 million from the carbon credit funds.

This is according to Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat who visited the community to update residents on the government’s developmental plans for the country.

“And that is just the first payment. Next year there will be another payment and your village will receive a substantial amount. And that will still not be the end because you will be collecting for a period of 10 years,” the minister told residents.

He urged the village leader to use the money wisely on small economic projects that would generate revenues for the community and create employment for the people.

The minister also noted that the 242 Amerindian communities have already benefitted from these funds, which he noted is not a replacement for anything else.

“This money is going to be added to what you are already receiving. Like the presidential grant, the capital grant, money from the budget, and other programmes that have been implemented by the government to support

Residents of Apoteri

you financially. So, it means that in 2024, you will receive another $15 million.”

Meanwhile, with the many investments the government has made thus far and more to be made, Minister Bharrat said Guyana will be transformed to its best in the coming years.

“The future ahead for us is a bright one. Ten years from today, Guyana, including the village of Apoteri and other villages, will not be the same. We all will be reaping major success,” he stated.

Toshao of the village, Ozias James was also present.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday October 26, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Eoin Morgan (ENG) (2) Ben Stokes (ENG) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who cracked the first 150-plus score in the current World Cup tournament?

(2) Who claimed the first five-wicket haul?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue ………………………… …………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………

Warner, Maxwell...

FROM PAGE 21

against a courageous Netherlands outfit. They had broadly kept Australia in check, even while Warner, coming off the back of 163 against Pakistan in the previous match, marched to a 22nd ODI hundred.

Warner's main allies were Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, the

more dominant partners in stands of 132 and 84 for the second and third wicket, respectively. Had Max O'Dowd not botched a pick-up at midwicket, Warner might have been run-out on 32 when both he and Smith found themselves at the non-striker's end. Roelof van der Merwe was then adjudged to have grounded a sharp chance at midwicket when Warner had 73, before completing an equally tough grab at backward point to see off Smith for 71.

Labuschagne's dismissal - de Leede's first, caught mid-off - was the first of three to fall for just 23 runs, culminating in Warner's dismissal, paddling Logan van Beek to fine leg, well-taken by Aryan Dutt, two balls after registering a sixth World Cup century off 91. With ten overs to go, Australia were 268 for 5.

Maxwell had come in at the end of the 39th over the latest an ODI centurion has arrived at the crease but only faced his first ball midway through the 41st.

In retrospect, the back-toback fours off de Leede to get him off the mark were a sign of things to come.

He was probably culpable for Cameron Green's run-out, pushing for two only for the allrounder - drafted in for Marcus Stoinis, who had a sore calf - to be found short of his ground with a direct hit. After Teja Nidamanuru failed to get to a difficult chance running back from mid-off when Maxwell was on 24, the carnage began.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

GOLDEN JAGUARS : WAYNE FORDE GFF UNPROFESSIONAL

We the players of the Guyana National Football Team( Golden Jaguars) are forced to highlight our plight under the Wayne Forde led administration of the Guyana Football Federation. Last week, Mr. Forde has done a big interview taking credit for the achievements of the national team in the current Concacaf Nations League and in his usual manner makes himself star of the show. His promotion of self is enabled by a weak administration who allows him and his Technical Director Bryan Joseph to run the GFF as a two man show.

We w i s h t o p o i n t out the following :1. The GFF owes players for engagements since August of this year with no official word from the GFF. They send a letter before each engagement stating what the match fees and other financial arrangements will be, which we must sign before travel. But after that the GFF never meets the deadline for payment and no one in the GFF have the courtesy (not the President, the General Secretary, the Technical Director ) to communicate with the players that payment will be late.

Instead it is always the Manager Rawle Adams and

Coach Jamaal Shabazz who has to come and speak to us and pacify a situation.

So much so that unknown to the public if Coach Shabazz did not convince us to focus on the game and he will ensure we get paid before November, the Golden Jaguars would not have played.

2. Mr Forde has signed a MOU with a group Blackpool to bring "top players to the program". This was another PR stunt by Mr. Forde and opportunity for him to star.

Those of us based in England laughed at the release since no Premier League player will come to play for Guyana under the current administrative conditions.

Flight arrangements are terribly done because the travel agent is always owed.

Sometimes you get your itinerary hours before leaving whether it's from Guyana, UK or North America.

The uniform situation is precarious since the GFF does not possess the skill to negotiate a proper uniform or kit sponsorship deal.

The team is never paid on time always waiting months after the game with the GFF meeting no deadlines.

So instead of creating a more professional environment Mr. Forde is looking to bring in Premier league players with his administration operating in amateur mode.

3. Another big factor is that while Mr Forde uses every opportunity to promote himself, very few people in the public know the players.

There is no plan by the GFF to market the players be they home or abroad. Yet if you check the media over the last four years Wayne Forde is the star of the show.

4. Local league football is at its lowest with the GFF running a one round league where each team played only nine matches.

Now they running a league cup where each team plays four matches. This puts the locally based players at a serious disadvantage when it comes to team selection.

Under Mr. Forde's administration in 8 years Guyana has played less league football than under the Fifa appointed Normalization Committee in two years.

5. We feel that if the Guyana Golden Jaguars are to achieve its full potential Mr. Forde may have to step down or make the Guyana Football Federation a more professionally run organization.

As players who give our best for Guyana we think we deserve better than what the current GFF administration is given.

Senior Players Representative of the Guyana Golden Jaguars

Namilco renews sponsorship of RHTYSC First Division and U-21 teams

The highly successful relationship between the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club and the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) was renewed for another year on Monday during a simple presentation ceremony at the company’s Head Office in Agricola, East Bank Demerara.

The renewal contract was signed by NAMILCO’s Managing Director, Bert Sukhai, and RHTYSC Secretary/CEO, Hilbert Foster, in the presence of the company’ Marketing Co-ordinator Alicia Anderson.

Foster, who is also the president of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) stated that NAMILCO has been the official sponsor of the club’s U-21 and first division teams since 2019, adding that the teams were very delighted with the rekindling the relationship.

The RHTYSC Secretary

noted that the teams were very proud to represent the NAMILCO brand on and off the cricket field as the company was a true friend

Guyana players at all levels.

Last year the RHTYSC produced a combined twenty-two players for Guyana while another fifteen mem-

NAMILCO Managing Director, Bert Sukhai, hands over sponsorship to RHTYSC Secretary /CEO Hilbert Foster to them and their club. The Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour team has been the most dominant first team in Berbice recently and has won several tournaments while producing numerous

bers played for the Country in 2023.

Club members Shamaine Campbelle was the vice-captain of the West Indies female team while Rampersaud and Pottaya served as

vice-captain of the national U-19 and U-17 teams respectively.

Junior Sinclair was the best emerging player of the 2023 CPL while Rampersaud and Pottaya were the leading bowlers for Guyana at the junior level.

Kevin Sinclair was named the leading all-rounder in the CWI four-day regional tournament and also represented the West Indies at the T/20 and ODI levels while also being picked in the Test squad.

Kelvon Anderson also scored his maiden first class century this year.

Foster also informed that the RHTYSC produced six players for this year CPL and has three players on the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) contracted players list.

The RHT Namilco first division team under the leadership of Clinton Pestano reached the finals of

the BCB 2023 Ivan Madray 20/20 tournament last Saturday.

Foster revealed that the teams were successful in completing over sixty self-development programmes under the sponsorship including the annual cricket academy, Grade six summer camp, Tribute to Medical Workers, Tribute to Town Council Workers, Tribute to Law Enforcement Officers, Walter Nero Tribute to Fathers, Jessica Sandia Tribute to Mothers, Annual Magazine and restoration work at the Area H ground among others.

The teams also make numerous donations to churches, schools and public hospitals. The Therapy Unit of the Port Mourant Hospital also benefited from a major donation of exercise equipment, office supplies, medical items and cleaning supplies at the cost of over three hundred thousand dol-

lars.

The teams are currently preparing to host an outreach programme with overseas doctors and nurses along with the club’s 34th annual Christmas charity programme and the Christmas Village.

Foster, on behalf of the team, committed to continue representing NAMILCO brand with pride, discipline and dedication.

Managing Director Bert Sukhai stated that his company was very pleased to be associated with the cricket teams and was satisfied with its investment.

He noted that his company receives regular progress reports and public relations benefits. He congratulated the players on a job well done and wished them all the best in the future.

NAMILCO, apart from the cricket sponsorship, also supports other programmes of the club.

Warner, Maxwell ice Netherlands

(ESPNCRICINFO) - It was the most brutal of one-twos. First came David Warner with the jab, then Glenn Maxwell with the "lights out" uppercut. A 104 from the opener had the Netherlands weary, but it was Maxwell's astonishing 106 from just 44 deliveries that administered the most devastating of knock-out blows. Australia

posted 399 for 8, standing triumphantly at the halfway stage over floored opponents, who were unable to rise off the canvas, eventually succumbing to a chastening 309-run defeat - the largest in margin in men's ODI World Cup history.

Just 18 days after Aiden Markram had seized the record for the fastest century in

ODI World Cups, against Sri Lanka at this very ground, Maxwell ripped it off him in nine fewer balls, needing just 40 to pass three figures.

It was the culmination of an almighty assault on the Dutch bowlers, most notably Bas de Leede. The talented allrounder now has the ignominy of the most expensive figures in men's ODIs, returning 2 for 115 - 43 of

them coming in his last two (including 28 from the last), all courtesy Maxwell.

Beyond saving the blushes of compatriots Mick Lewis and Adam Zampa previous joint-holders of the most expensive figures in the format - Maxwell's second World Cup century (and third overall) shifted the complexion of the match

TURN TO PAGE 20

Glenn Maxwell’s record-breaking ton earned him a photoshoot•Oct 25, 2023•Getty Images

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Sasha Shariff to Represent Guyana in Women’s Chess Championship in Puerto Rico The Guyana Chess Federation has sent 20-year-old Sasha Shariff to participate in the Women’s Chess Championship in Puerto Rico.

The tournament, a collaboration between the Chess Confederation for America (CCA) and the Puerto Rico Chess Federation (FAPR) will take place from October 24th through November 1st, 2023, in the city of Carolina, Puerto Rico at the Verdanza Hotel in the tourist area of Isla Verde.

The GCF representative, who participated in last year’s Olympiad in Chennai and who earned herself a Conditional Women’s title, will play in the 9-round Swiss system over the coming days with games starting at 11:00am and 5:00 pm daily.

Shariff, the holder of the Women’s

Championship title in 2020 and who placed second in the Women’s Championships in 2022 and 2023, took the place of current Women’s National Champion, Jessica Callender, who was unable to meet the criteria for the travel requirements to Puerto Rico.

The Guyana Chess Federation is proud to provide support for Ms. Shariff in her pursuit of growth and excellence. The Federation believes that encouraging and empowering women in chess is essential to the growth and development of the sport in Guyana.

Anand Raghunauth, President of the Guyana Chess Federation, stated, "We are extremely proud of the development of the women and girls in chess over the past years.

Sasha Shariff

Tournaments such as this provides a platform for women to showcase their talent on an international stage.

We hope that events like this will inspire more women and girls in Guyana to take up chess and follow their passion."

The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) is the governing body for chess in Guyana. Committed to promoting chess at all levels and fostering the growth of the game, the GCF organizes various tournaments, events, and training to encourage and develop local chess talent. The tournament games are live- streamed on chess-results. com. To find out more about the Guyana Chess Federation, please visit their website, guyanachess.gy.

Buttler returns to Guyana for Futsal tournament

FIFA Instructor Shane Butler has returned to Guyana to refresh the futsal referee community's knowledge and engage new enthusiasts in the game during a three-day FIFA Futsal Instructors Workshop which officially opened on Monday.

A total of thirteen attendees, featuring two women and two futsal referees from Suriname, attended their first day of futsal theory sessions on October 23 with Butler and FIFA Referee Development Officer, Javier Santos, at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) Plantation Liliendaal, ECD. In his brief opening remarks, Butler shared that there is a wealth of opportunities for referees from the Concacaf region for upcoming international tournaments, but they must be physically fit, have a comprehensive grasp of the game's rules

and a deep understanding of the sport.

“During the three days, we are going to cover some basic stuff so we are all on the same page… (and) some advance stuff (including) law changes over the last two years.”

He encouraged participants Colin Abel, Micah Erskine, Keith Roberts, Marineika Welcome, Anthony Adams, Eion Rodney, Mitera Thomas, Dwayne McKinnon, Abdulla Hamid, Wayne Griffith, Otis Williams, Anthony Terburg (Suriname), Preshant Autar (Suriname) to display a strong commitment throughout the course.

Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President, Wayne Forde, added that the workshop exemplifies the importance of camaraderie within football with the attendance of the two Surinamese futsal referees.

“The importance of solidarity within football

FIFA’s Instructor Shane Butler demonstrates a point

is evident by having two of our colleagues from neighbouring Suriname’s participation in the programme. We play a lot of futsal football here in Guyana and I know we are always getting

feedback that the laws that govern futsal are not being properly applied by the referee officiating the game.”

“Growing and building capacity is a duty of the Guyana Football

Federation and it is the responsibility of our officials to be a part of that process.”

The top GFF official also encouraged the group to “be as engaging as possible and to make sure

that at the end of this programme you are able to grow and lift the quality of the tournaments that we are going to be running over the next couple of months and years.”

The FIFA Futsal Instructors Course is specifically crafted to furnish futsal instructors with a comprehensive understanding of the technical and tactical aspects of the sport.

In order to advance the growth of futsal in Guyana, these instructors are encouraged to disseminate this invaluable expertise among other coaches operating at the national level.

GFF Refereeing Project Officer, Lenval Peart, expressed his satisfaction with the participation of women in the workshop and emphasised that one of his department’s objectives is to increase the number of female instructors in the game.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

GTT Invitational Golf tourney

Banks DIH, Oasis Café & Montra support Banks DIH, Oasis Café, and Montra have thrown their support behind the GTT Business Solutions Invitational Golf tournament, which is set to take place this weekend at the Lusignan Golf Club.

Banks DIH with their 6 Degree North Wine and Tropical Mist Water brands will be the prime beverages at the tournament.

LGC Vice President, Brian Hackett, in a statement said, “The LGC is pleased that the giants in the commercial sphere are throwing their weight behind Guyana's premiere golf tournament, which is the single most important tournament of the year. The best golfers will be out, as far as Colombia and Fiji who have already registered. So, we have a significant number of players participating to ensure that this tournament becomes the biggest and best tournament in Guyana. All the best players will be gathered at the

(From left) LGC VP Brian Hackett receives the sponsorship cheques from a representative of Banks DIH, Oasis Café Proprietor, William Walker, and a representative of Montra Entertainment Centre LGC, we will be showcasing the grounds are in immacu- greens are shine so that the that the course is going to timistic that the experts will talent, the LGC and its hos- late condition, the fairways players will have excep- be challenging. The greens find a way to perform well are dry and the club is tional performances on the are going to be tough to in these conditions. pitality.”

Hackett also noted that doing its best to ensure the course. He further relayed control. However, he is op-

Green Machine tuning up for Grenada 7s - US$20,000 in funding still needed

Guyana’s senior men’s rugby team, the ‘Green Machine’ have been busy preparing for this year’s Grenada International 7’s tournament, which will be

week, vying for a spot in the final 12 that will make the trip to represent the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) and, according to head of the Union, Ryan

Ryan Dey, President of the GRFU held on Friday December 1st and Saturday December 2nd in the 'Spice Isle of the Caribbean’, A total of 30 ruggers are training multiple times a

Dey, he is pleased with the constant improvement with the players.

Speaking to Chronicle Sport, Dey mentioned that, “So far, I am impressed with

the level of fitness and the quality of rugby we are seeing. The guys are really giving their all, so I foresee selecting the final 12 will be a difficult task for the selectors.”

Dey also added that selection will be even tougher than anticipated since, “We will have five players coming in from the United States who play 1st division rugby.”

“They will be coming in from the 14th to the 27th to be with the team and train. I want it to be made clear that these guys have not made the team yet. They are coming to train with us to see if they can earn a spot.”

Dey relished the opportunity and sees it as positive.

He posited that, “The GRFU is happy with this development because the overseas players may put some pressure on the local guys and everyone will raise their game.”

Three of the five overseas

Godfrey Broomes is brought down during training last Saturday (Shaniece Bamfield photo) players that will be in training with the local squad have been confirmed. They are Tyresse Prescott, Matthew Talbot and Von Adams.

In terms of funding,

the GRFU’s budget for the tournament is US$44,000 and they have raised around US$25,000 including contributions from John Fernandes Ltd, the

National Sports Commission (NSC) and a US$5000 pledge from the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

Rain forces no result in Harpy Eagles’ contest

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CMC – Rain forced a no-result in the 14th match of the Regional Super50 Cup between Guyana Harpy Eagles and Combined Campuses and College at the Frank Worrell Memorial Ground on Wednesday.

Scores:

Training last weekend was intense as usual (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

HARPY EAGLES 177 off 48.1 overs (Tevin Imlach 80, Tagenarine Chanderpaul 30; Akshaya Persaud 2-23, Shatrughan Rambaran 2-27) CCC 86 for five off 15 overs (Kadeem Alleyne 47; Kevin Sinclair 3-39)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 26, 2023

Green Machine tuning up for Grenada 7s SEE PAGE

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- US$20,000 in funding still needed

GOLDEN JAGUARS : WAYNE FORDE GFF UNPROFESSIONAL

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| THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023