Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 29-04-2023

Send NISA Bill to Special Select Committee

–– President Ali instructs

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan

Ali has instructed that the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Bill be sent to a Special Select Committee in the interest of every stakeholder

In making the announcement on his Facebook page on Friday night, he said: “I have instructed the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and the Attorney General that the National Intelligence and Security Agency ( NISA ) Bill be sent to a Special Select Committee of the Parliament so that the views and ideas of all stakeholders can be examined.”

While pointing out that he is aware of its importance, he said that, “equally, I am committed to ensuring the fulsome nature of the Bill is understood and that interested stakeholders be given the opportunity to contribute to it.”

The Bill which aims to essentially establish a legislative framework on how the agency will be structured and financed , and its responsibilities, among other things, has attracted a lot of negative comments from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

It was tabled in the National Assembly by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall , S C ., last Monday

President Ali in an effort to debunk those negative criticisms explained on Thursday that the agency has been in operation for over a decade , even during the five-year period when the APNU+AFC held office

In addressing the issue on the sidelines of an event , he had explained that the agency was created years ago . “ I came as the President and met NISA; the National Intelligence Agency was there before my presidency This National Intelligence and Security Agency has been operating for a number of years ; over a decade.”

Dr Ali added that the Agency was in operation since 2010 under then President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, and under the David Granger-led APNU+AFC administration from 2015 until the elections in 2020

He said that when he became President in 2020, the head of the agency was Brigadier Retired Bruce

Lovell, who subsequently left , and Colonel Omar Khan was appointed “This agency existed; full stop !” the President said as he set the record straight

The APNU ’ s current leader, Aubrey Norton is now objecting to the Bill, stating that it’s dictatorial Nandlall has also publicly clarified the misconceptions surrounding the Bill

While urging the public to familiarise themselves with it , he said that the Agency will not operate as a law enforcement body, and will work alongside the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Defence Force to aid in the gathering of intelligence.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

‘My service to Guyana will remain unbroken’

Brigadier Bess says as he prepares for new job at Defence Diplomacy Unit

ministration for their contributions to the GDF as well as providing commendable policies like housing and scholarship opportunities

The President and Commander - in - Chief of the Armed Forces, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, promoted Colonel Khan to the rank of Brigadier and appointed him as Chief of Staff of the GDF

The President revealed at the commencement of the Annual Police Officers’ Conference at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary, that within his vision for a new Guyana, a diplomacy unit will be set up

of the weaknesses of the national system

According to the President, 55 is not only the age at which members of the disciplined forces depart, but it is also “when they are at their prime.”

“A new Guyana will be looking at every officer,” President Ali affirmed

He then went on to say that much focus will be placed on strategic positioning and this will be dealing with a lot of analytical capacity and advising policy makers on strategic partnership

By Trina Williams

BRIGADIER Godfrey

Bess’ departure from the Guyana Defence Force ( GDF ) does not mean the end for him Rather , it indicates the conclusion of one chapter and the start of a new one in his life story

The former Chief of Staff maintains that he is “rearing and ready to go again” in order to continue serving the people of Guyana This time, it will be through President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s soon-to-be-established Defence Diplomacy Unit in an advisory capacity

This announcement was made on Friday at the Change of Command parade at Camp Base Ayanganna where Bess officially handed over command of

the army to Brigadier Omar Khan, who was promoted to that rank earlier this week

Present at the parade were President Ali; Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, along with other dignitaries

Bess not only advised current ranks to continue on the right path , but he also urged others to join the GDF

He said that this transformational period that Guyana is undergoing, presents the perfect opportunity for those who have their sights set on joining the army to take on the task

According to him : “ I think it’s a very exciting time because there are lots of opportunities in the GDF to serve and to do well.”

Moreover , Brigadier

Bess spoke great things about the newly appointed Chief of Staff, labeling him not only as “competent”, but also as a “ strategic ” leader

“… I am sure that he will lead this GDF properly and he will get the support of the GDF,” he asserted Meanwhile , during the Brigadier ’ s farewell speech , he said : “ At this significant milestone of my career , I cannot help but have nostalgic memories as I reminisce on my tenure in the GDF.”

The former Chief of Staff said that he is not just proud of his accomplishments but also of the advancements the army has made He highlighted that for the first time in history, the GDF has deployed female soldiers to the border

to serve alongside their male counterparts , shattering stereotypes in the process

He continued by expressing his gratitude to President Ali and his ad-

He highlighted that the manner in which young men and women are utilised after the nation has invested in their education and training for a number of years, and the release at the “ripe age of 55,” is one

President Ali then remarked that Guyana must be able to produce a platform that indicates that we are “thinkers and not just

reactors.”

He also said that this new vision for the next generation must be nation focused and people-centred through partnership

––

President, Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips at the Change of Command parade (DPI Photos)

Brigadier Godfrey Bess handing over the GDF’s colours to newly appointed Chief of Staff, Omar Khan

Brigadier Godfrey Bess

Major infrastructural development for several Georgetown communities

MINISTER of Public Works , Bishop Juan Edghill, on Friday, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the lives of all Guyanese during his visit to various communities across Georgetown.

Following requests from several councillors of the Mayor and City Council , and concerns of residents, the minister also inspected drainage, roads, footpaths, and bridges

The minister walked through communities including Tucville , North Ruimveldt , South Ruimveldt , Lamaha Park , Sophia , Guyhoc , Stevedore Housing Scheme, and Rasville

“ Residents have been making reservations for improvement to their lives

As a government, we have

had a history of listening to the people and responding to their needs The intention is that whatever the government can do to address and improve the lives of people, we will do it; the big things as well as small things ,” he said

During his consultation with residents, the minister identified several infrastructures for rehabilitation

Members of the communities will carry out the rehabilitation work, which will be supervised by the ministry’s engineers

The minister noted that his engineers have a 24hour timeline to complete a proposal for the project’s rollout

He added that many of these footpaths can be done in concrete, allowing the government to employ people from the community

to do the work

This will have a meaningful impact in fostering community development as it allows residents to actively participate in infrastructural projects

Minister Edghill also inspected the North Ruimveldt Market , which is currently in a deplorable state, and promised to meet with all vendors to discuss the way forward

When the market is rehabilitated, he said, “it will bring a great service to the people.”

Minister Edghill was joined by Minister of Tourism , Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond ; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, and Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues. (DPI)

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond along with community representatives during a walkabout (DPI photo)

Recreational parks at Diamond/Grove, Tuschen, part of First Lady’s beautification project

AS she continues to expand her national beautification project , First Lady Arya Ali, on Friday, visited Tuschen New Housing Scheme in Region Three and Diamond / Grove on the East Bank Demerara , where multipurpose recreational parks will be built

During separate ceremonies held at the two locations, Mrs Ali , the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall , other officials and residents , unveiled a billboard

The First Lady explained that the project aims to encourage the revitalisation of public safe spaces and green parks across the country She also pointed out that her initiative is in keeping with President , Dr Irfaan Ali and his government’s “One Guyana” theme of inclusion and togetherness for all Guyanese

“The multipurpose recreational parks form part of what the Government of Guyana is doing through my office and under the national

beautification project . The multipurpose facilities are for you, the people, and we are hoping that whatever is done here , you , your children, the elders, and persons with disabilities can benefit the most from it The building will also house a library and computer centre to cater to the needs of students, and of course, it is a safe, green space for all of you ,” said Mrs Ali

She continued by telling the residents that “ the complex will consist of an area where people can exercise; a cafeteria, a children’s play area, a beautiful garden space , and a multipurpose hall to help the people in their advancement of technical skills like cake deco-

Mrs Ali used the opportunity to urge residents to not only enjoy but to care the facilities since they now belong to them

While speaking with the residents from both communities, Minister Dharamlall expressed how happy he was to be a part of the First Lady’s initiative

He also stated that the projects are part of President Ali ’ s commitment to ensuring the enhancement of communities and investment for people across Guyana

“

As part of President Ali’s vision to transform our village economy, our First Lady has also been doing quite a lot of work across the country in enhancing projects within our communities for some special reasons; for safety , security , pleasure , and most importantly, community integration.”

He said: “You have heard that we are making provisions for skills training to be done at these facilities. Along with the fact that people will be employed to maintain the park, another set will be able to sell food and beverages, which shows clearly that we are making investments to

improve the lives and livelihoods of people.”

At both locations, residents expressed their gratitude to the First Lady, Minister Dharamlall , and the government for giving back to the people, especially the children who live in those communities

It is expected that the two parks will be completed by the end of December (Cindy Parkinson)

rating, floral arrangements, etc This is to help you, the people here in Tuschen.”

She added that the parks aim to be self-sufficient as monies generated from the facilities will be spent on their maintenance

She also explained that the parks will be equipped with lights and benches

First Lady Arya Ali, Minister Nigel Dharamlall and residents near the billboard which was erected at Tuschen (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

Mrs. Ali and Minister Dharamlall with residents of Diamond/Groveww

Desperation Tactics

THE upcoming Local Government Elections in Guyana have brought to light some worrying trends in the behaviour of some political parties.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs

Anil Nandlall has publicly accused the People's National Congress Reform (PNC/R) /A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), of resorting to bullying and intimidation tactics to influence voters and sway the outcome of the elections.

According to reports, members of the PNC/APNU, including MP Vinceroy Jordan, Carol Smith-Joseph, and Darren Wade, have been visiting the homes of individuals whose names appear on the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Backers' List and intimidating them into withdrawing their names. In some instances, they have reportedly forced individuals to sign pre-prepared documents to withdraw their support from the PPP/C.

The PPP/C, which is contesting in all 610 constituencies across the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs), has also received reports of APNU agents intimidating its supporters and candidates, particularly those of Afro-Guyanese descent. Some individuals have been threatened with violence, including the burning of their homes, in an attempt to dissuade them from supporting the PPP/C.

These tactics are a cause for concern and represent a significant threat to the democratic process in Guyana. Political parties must respect the rights of individuals to support the political party of their choice, free from fear or intimidation. The use of force or coercion to influence voters undermines the fundamental principles of democracy and cannot be tolerated.

The PPP/C has established a hotline for individuals to report any acts of bullying or intimidation by PNC/APNU operatives, and

residents across the country are encouraged to remain vigilant and to resist any such attempts to interfere with their rights.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) are responsible for investigating any reports of intimidation and taking appropriate action to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. Political parties must also conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the principles of democracy and respects the will of the people.

APNU should refrain from these tactics and focus instead on presenting a compelling vision for the future of Guyana. The people of Guyana deserve a fair and transparent electoral process that allows them to make informed choices about the future of their communities.

Further, as Guyana gears up for the LGEs on June 12, the political temperature continues to rise with accusations and counter-accusations

being hurled between the two main political parties.

General Secretary of the PPP/C Bharrat Jagdeo has accused APNU of executing a campaign built on “lies” and “intimidation of people.”

Jagdeo has challenged APNU to debunk statistics that the party is contesting in less than 45 per cent of constituencies at the upcoming LGE. According to him, the support for the PPP/C is evidenced by the party’s ability to attract enough candidates and backers to contest in all 610 constituencies, while APNU has not contested in many constituencies and LAAs.

Jagdeo further accused APNU members of bullying and threatening candidates and supporters of the PPP/C to remove their names and denounce their support of the PPP/C.

“Their entire campaign is built around lies and intimidation of people in the communities; they have gone to the homes of the people, bullying them into signing

forms. In one area, they have a single template printed out, carrying it to people to say that they didn’t sign the list. People were intimidated to withdraw because they were fearful for their lives,” Jagdeo said.

Notwithstanding the statistics, members of the APNU maintain that the party is contesting in “practically all” of the constituencies and areas. Jagdeo said this couldn’t be further from the truth.

“How could you, up to today, lie to the people of this country? Who will believe such a party? How can a Leader of the Opposition go to a press conference and tell such a blatant lie, without fear of it being exposed? How are you going to PR it away?” Jagdeo said.

Jagdeo also stated that APNU is still reeling from the shock of the massive support that was observed for the PPP/C on Nomination Day on April 17, particularly the significant support the PPP/C got in

traditional APNU strongholds. He further accused APNU of engaging in intimidation tactics to scare people off.

“They still can’t recover; it has taken a big toll on their psyche. Seeing a multi-ethnic party made up of people of every race in significant numbers that is their nightmare. So, across the country, they are engaged in intimidation tactics to scare people off,” Jagdeo said.

All political parties and their candidates must engage in fair and transparent campaigning without resorting to lies, intimidation, or violence. The upcoming LGE is an opportunity for Guyanese to exercise their democratic rights and choose their local leaders, and any malpractice should not mar this. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including the Guyana Elections Commission, to ensure a free and fair election process.

Intelligence and national security – some key considerations

Dear Editor

There is great excitement about the formalisation of the National Intelligence and Security Agency. The positive vibes are understandable and indeed justifiable. Yet, we do need to stand back and reflect on the promises and challenges of such an institution. But first things first. Why don’t we begin with a quick overview of some key attributes of intelligence and try to situate these within the larger complex of national and international security? Consider the following points.

1. Following the work of Professor Mohammed Ayoob of Michigan State University, we need to appreciate that Third World security challenges are mostly internal. Weak states, meaning states with underdeveloped or undeveloped institutions, often find it difficult to foment and maintain national cohesion, deliver public services, or in worse case scenarios, holding the monopoly on the means of violence (meaning arms).

2. The state in the global south is characterised by fault lines that include (a) grievances based on eco-

nomic disparities that were seeded during plantation capitalism; (b) ethnic conflict which were produced as a strategy of divide and rule during the colonial era; and (c) the lack of economic capabilities necessary to provide basic human security. These fault lines can be and are often amplified by hegemonic global governance that limit the capacity of states to conduct their internal affairs based on their own historical specificities.

3. Unlike many countries in the global south, Guyana does indeed have an external security consid-

eration that must be taken seriously, not least because we do not have the military capability of our own to ensure our territorial integrity. In this sense, Ayoob's analysis needs to be stretched to incorporate more traditional considerations of strategic analysis. Is subaltern realism as a framework adequate to the task? I would very much like to get Prof. Gibran’s response here.

4. We may usefully draw from the revised United States Army Counterinsurgency Field Manual (3-24) which has significant sections on the linkages between

intelligence and security. FM 3-24 is useful despite its conditions of emergence, namely, “counterinsurgency warfare” in Iraq. Before the 2006 revision, COIN (intelligence) operations were developed for “low intensity conflict.”

5. The revised FM 3-24 “comprehensive insurgency analysis tasks” (p. 130) could be adapted to serve as a base for our own purposes. These include (a) “identify…strategic, operational, and tactical goals, objectives, and imperatives” of the subjects of interest (SI), meaning the sources

of threat; (b) “identify motivations, fears, concerns, and perceptions that shape the actions of” the SI; (c) “identify grievances, fears, and concerns…” that are exploited by the SI to create aggravated instability and threats to national security; (d) “understand links among political, religious, …criminal, and other social networks”; and, inter alia, (e) “determine the structure, function, [and leadership] of organizations that pose national security threats”.

6. I must add that there should be built-in safe-

PNC MPs boycott Aubrey Norton’s leadership

Dear Editor, Leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC) Aubrey Norton has only himself to blame for the dismal showing by the party on Nomination Day.

Nomination Day exacerbated the PNC’s leadership crisis, at the very least the optics of it, since many prominent faces within the party’s leadership, particularly Members of Parliament (MP) were absent from the frontlines.

I scoured online at the party’s Facebook page and other media entities to find photographs of the PNC contingent on Nomination Day

What I found was the absence of the party’s MPs which is appalling, but not surprising given the leadership crisis that has developed

within the party since losing the 2020 regional and general elections.

However, one would have thought that in the interest of presenting a united front publicly and shoring up the base, the MPs would have appeared alongside Norton to lend support to the many candidates, especially those contesting elections for the first time under the PNC’s palm tree symbol.

Behold, it was not to be. Perhaps, the relationship between Norton and MPs is worse than we are being led to believe. Several days later we have not heard any good reason for the MPs staying away from the Nomination Day activities. Therefore, one is left to draw their own conclusion.

My own analysis of the PNC’s Nomination Day

fiasco is that the MPs boycotted Norton’s leadership, sending the clearest possible message ahead of Congress that they are ready to end the Aubrey Norton experiment.

Since regaining power in 2020, the PPP/C has demonstrated empathy, provided a united leadership front and clear messaging and direction on national issues.

Hence, the PPP/C appears to be marching towards another enormous victory at the Local Government Elections.

In contrast, Norton has communicated mixed messages to supporters. At one stage, he stated that the PPP/C will not call LGE because the party’s ideology was at odds with local democracy which is a falsehood.

Then, Norton said that

Intelligence and national...

FROM PAGE 6

guards to rigorously protect the right to privacy as guaranteed by the Constitution of Guyana.

7. No one should assume that an intelligence agency would necessarily guarantee total security against threats either domestic or foreign. In fact, we should learn from several intelligence failures that have become ‘storied’ in the world of intelligence and international security. These failures have been widely analyzed by scholars who had direct access to security agencies. Robert Jervis, for instance, who was at the Office of Strategic Research, has pointed out that failures have been due to multiple causes including – poor information due to inadequate or badly designed collection systems, bad analysis due to faulty methodology, or failure to act on good intelligence.

8. A few intelligence failures will illustrate the point. A mere five months before the January 1979 removal of the Shah of Iran, the CIA advised that “Iran is not in a revolutionary or even “prerevolutionary” situation.” Jervis thinks that one source of the problem was that the intelligence received was mostly from the SAVAK. Iraq was also a monumental intelligence failure, this time, because of

bad information combined with twisted intelligence due to determination of VP Dick Cheney and others to remove Saddam Hussein. You may all remember the Yellow Cake ordeal, Valerie Plame, and so on. The Cuban Missile Crisis was a different kind of intelligence failure. This time the intelligence was gathered from direct physical observation (of ships going to Cuba), but the reports were misfiled in a non-urgent binder (See Graham Allison’s “Essence of Decision”). Then there was 9/11, where according to credible reports, incoming National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice ignored intelligence advice from Richard Clark who warned that Al Qaeda was a real and present danger. We should also recall that there were several intelligence blunders surrounding the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

9. Robert Jervis is correct that even perfectly accurate intelligence does not translate into good policy. The main reason is due to divided government. A sitting government may have accurate information, but often, opposition political parties will go to the media to run their own campaign to weaken the hand of the sitting government. In some instances, opposition elements within a “deep state” may withhold or distort vital

the PNC was not going to contest LGE because the list was flawed. This view in itself was also flawed.

Norton further confused his supporters by stating his approval of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) national day of resistance on June 12, the day for LGE polls.

At no point in the past

several months did Norton send a clear and unambiguous message of contesting LGE. The few meetings in traditional strongholds like North Ruimveldt could not galvanize the base.

It is often said in political spheres that leadership matters…that empathy is a common trait often ignored by politicians who prefer to

trade on ideologies. Norton’s leadership lacks empathy while the ideology of race-baiting is outdated which creates a further disconnect with Guyanese at the grassroot level. His MPs by their own actions on Nomination Day appear to agree with me.

Yours truly, Brian Azore

information or divert attention in order that the sitting administration does not get “a win.”

The discussion above is certainly not meant to touch on all the critical areas of intelligence and security. The focus, rather, is to indicate what are some of the things involved in a national intelligence and security agency, and to also draw attention to some of the limitations of relying too much on ‘intelligence’ when narrowly defined.

In the end, what really matters in national security is the quality of governance, including the conduct of political parties and civil society groups. This means optimising the human, economic, and technical resources of the state and civil society, so competence is balanced with good political sense. This last point is especially important because of the history of internally generated strife by authoritarian elements who are motivated by regressive cultural nationalism.

Sincerely

Dr. Randolph Persaud Former Assistant Director, Centre for Int’l and Security Studies York University,

Toronto

We need to hear the voices of Red Thread on the findings of the 2020 elections COI

Dear Editor, They were dormant during all the material times the AP -

NU+AFC was in office.

Not a word on the abuse of women and

children through harmful policies. Not a word on the snatching of the cash grant for

school children. Not a word on the placement of taxes on farm supplies and equipment. Not a word on the raising of UG fees. Not a word on the almost all-male boards. Not a word…

It is proven that where undemocratic rule happens it is the vulnerable that suffers the most.

Red Thread themselves say women and children are the most vulnerable. It defies understanding therefore that this group was silent when the most egregious attempt at election rigging took place in the five-month period following the March 2, 2020 elections. Not a word. The best that can be said of

them is perhaps they were unsure of what was happening.

Now that the report of the COI is out, clearly painting a picture of what took place during that period, we are still to hear from Red Thread.

Sincerely yours,

Attiya Baksh

students win second Guyana-China

‘Youth Leadership’ competition

TWENTY-TWO students from across Guyana, who are the winners of the second Guyana-China Friendship Youth Leadership Development Award competition, were on Friday presented with trophies and US$1,000 each.

A simple award ceremony was held for the students at the Chinese Embassy.

Permanent Secretary

skills.

“We will do everything possible to ensure that we provide more and more for young people, the experiences so that they would develop leadership competencies that would see them serve well…” King related.

The competition comprised a community-based project, a work of art, and a physical fitness challenge, all

of the Unit of Allied Arts, said that the theme of the competition was “50 years of friendship and co-operation”.

He said that overall, the competition was an exciting one.

“Learners were very happy to be engaging in competition and in the face-to-face modalities for the first time after COVID-19 had taken us back to our homes,”

because of some of the factors that we had no control over,” he said.

He related that they were faced with the task of ensuring that parents understood that their best interests were at heart and that the competition was going to take place more safely, following the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 guidelines.

Braithwaite said that

during the competition, they saw many skills being exhibited by students.

“They were able to showcase their ideas as to what they want to see in their communities as part of the community project. We were also able to see what their visions are for Guyana moving forward,” he noted.

During the preparation

period, students were given the information and were able to showcase various skills such as their artistic talents through song, poetry, dance, martial arts, and also visual arts presentations. From a number of over 300 applicants, eight were selected from each educational district, and of those eight, two were selected as winners of the competition.

of the Ministry of Education (MoE), Alfred King, while speaking at the event said that the ministry values the embassy’s partnership, friendship, and engagement.

He noted that through the competition, they hope to create great leaders.

King used the opportunity to emphasise that everything possible will be done to ensure more opportunities are provided for young people to develop great leadership

of which, according to Guo Haiyan, the Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, is beneficial in igniting or deepening participants’ self-awareness.

She told the winners that she believes that the competition serves as a new starting point for their self-awareness and self-realisation. She said that the other reward is the appreciation of another civilisation.

Braithwaite said.

He explained that it was open to secondary schools across Guyana but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they found that many schools did not participate.

Meanwhile,

Kurt Braithwaite, Administrator

“Several students who wanted to engage in the competition were unable to do so due to some of the circumstances that were being faced. There were several challenges faced by the regional education departments

Kurt Braithwaite, Administrator of the Unit of Allied Arts (front row, right); Guo Haiyan, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana (front row, second from right), other officials and the awardees

AG focused on modernising Guyana’s legislative landscape

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C., on Friday stated that work must be done on “multiple tracks” to fast-track the modernisation of Guyana’s legislative landscape.

Nandlall made these remarks during the Guyana Bar Association’s Law Symposium held under the theme, “New frontiers in law, preparing for the future”, which was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre as part of the second annual ‘Law Week’ activities.

During his address, he

stated that he is of the view that conveying the law to a new frontier in a futurist Guyana can only be truly achieved by a multifaceted approach.

Against this backdrop, he told those gathered that the government has been forging ahead with this three-fold modernisation which will include the legislative agenda, institutional strengthening and boosting human resource capabilities.

He said that Guyana’ s statute books contain the most archaic statutes in the English-speaking Caribbean,

which he added may not have been visited with amendments decades ago.

Nandlall said: “It is not difficult to appreciate that a comprehensive review of a large body of our statute laws is requisite in order to bring them in consonance with a modern Guyana.”

While this is a herculean task, he indicated that it must be undertaken statute by statute even as he mentioned that this task has begun.

As part of this, a complete review of Guyana’s Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act has been com-

pleted. He disclosed that an amendment bill is in draft stage and should be ready to be tabled in the National Assembly later in the year.

“As time is not on our side, we have to operate on multiple tracks in order to modernise our legislative landscape,” he remarked while noting that work is currently ongoing to craft new legislation that will meet the demands of new and emerging sectors in the country.

Consequently, the Legal Affairs Minister remarked that while on the thrust towards modernisation, several modern pieces of legislation have already been enacted. He added that many more are in the works across several sectors of the country.

In the oil and gas sector, he highlighted the new petroleum bill along with related pieces of legislation in the sector relating to insurance, financing, the environment and land among other things.

As it relates to the health sector, Nandlall added that the government has also en-

acted modernised laws inclusive of the Tissue and Organ Transplant Act, among others.

He told those gathered that the government has also been pursuing collaborations with international healthcare providers to establish new facilities across the country.

This, he said requires the establishment of a modern medical statutory regulatory framework to meet the standards of international healthcare providers.

Meanwhile, in agriculture, Nandlall stated that while Guyana has been identified to play a role in ensuring food security in the region, the country has been working with developmental partners on bills for that sector.

According to the Attorney General, these bills will prepare Guyana for its role as an international agro-processor, producer and exporter of food and other products.

He then indicated that this is the legal trajectory that the country is on currently.

“There is no uncertainty in relation to the developmental agenda of Guyana The unvarnished truth is that the law, as the foundation of civilised society, cannot remain stagnant,” Nandlall concluded.

Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall S.C.

Companies, individuals awarded for outstanding work in occupational health and safety

THE National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health ( NACOSH ), on Friday , awarded 12 companies and some of their employees for their outstanding work.

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton , in his address during the NACOSH

speech noted how important these awards were to local companies He said that it celebrates the outstanding achievements of the organisations and individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the health and safety of employees.

Facility, while Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYBSI) and Demerara Shipping Company Limited were declared runners-up

The top award for Regions Three, Four, Five and 10 was given to Guyana Industrial Minerals Inc ., Saipem Guyana Inc ., Offshore Construction, Berbice

ited In the ‘Joint Workplace Safety and Health Com -

mittee’ category, Guyana Industrial Minerals Inc ., Linden Hospital Complex

and Guyana Power and Light Inc . walked away with the top award

Awards Ceremony emphasised the importance of paying attention to safety and health in the workplace

He said that while some progress has been made with sensitisation , there is still much work to be done

In providing a statical breakdown, he revealed that during 2020, some 32 persons would have lost their lives due to accidents in the workplace However , in 2021, that figure reduced slightly to 27

Minister Hamilton disclosed that for 2022 , the figure decreased to 21

While acknowledging the decline in workplace deaths, he pointed out that 21 is still too many

According to the minister , work is being done with a public relations and communications consultant to develop a strategy to extend and expand the OHS conversations

Additionally, the Chairman of NACOSH , Earl Morris , in his welcoming

“Safety is not just a rule, or set of rules and regulations that they have to follow It is a way of life, a culture that needs to be instilled The organisations and individuals being honoured here this afternoon, have not only recognised the importance of safety, but have also made it a programme of their operation and practice.”

Morris further congratulated the awardees and encouraged them to continue their journey in ensuring OHS is observed.

Notably , a representative of the Public Sector Commission (PSC), Komal Singh, shared briefly that the commission considers safety as a critical component in every single operation

He called on both companies and employees of companies to take note of the many forms of OHS requirements for a safe environment in the workplace

The workplace winner award went to Saipem Guyana Inc Offshore Construction

Bridge Company Inc., and Linden Hospital Complex respectively

In the ‘Best by Sector’ category , Saipem Guyana Inc Offshore Construction Facility; Guyana Industrial Minerals Inc.; Linden Hospital Complex; Sterling Products Limited; Cevons Waste Management and Demerara Shipping Company Limited, were declared winners

Meanwhile , the Chief Executive Officer ( CEO ) winner was Marvin Jackson of Guyana Industrial Minerals Inc

The ‘ Young Worker ’ winner and runners-up were Kwesi Veshon Roberts of Guyana Shore Base Inc .; Farouk Bacchus of Schlumberger Guyana Inc and Tommy Stevens of Guyana Shore Base Inc

In the ‘Individual’ category, the winner and runners-up were Allan Lambert, Guyana Shore Base Inc .; Carl DeSouza, Schlumberger Guyana Inc and Jenelley Duncan , Banks DIH Lim -

Several companies and individuals were recognised for their valuable contributions to occupational health and safety (NCN photo)

E-Communications and Transaction Bill to be laid in Parliament at next sitting - AG says

AT the next sitting of the National Assembly, an E-Communications and Transaction Bill which will help to regulate electronic transactions in the country, will be laid. This disclosure was made by Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney-General, Anil

Nandlall, S.C., while addressing the Bar Association of Guyana’s Law Week Symposium on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Nandlall during his remarks stated that the bill will formally introduce e-transactions and e-payments across

central government and the state apparatus.

“This will allow for easy conduct of transactions involving the modern methods of communications and payments,” he said.

Meanwhile, earlier this week, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond made a similar disclosure while speaking at GTT’s launch of its new connectivity project.

During her remarks, she stated that the government was creating an environment that will allow businesses to thrive and as such, will provide the legislative framework for this to happen.

Against this backdrop, Minister Walrond stated that the electronic identification system and other bills will also provide a digital ecosystem for businesses to thrive.

As such, she said: “The E-Commerce and Transaction Bill that will be laid in Parlia-

ment in another week or so… it is going to bring regulation to online contracts and transactions and digital payments.”

Walrond added that this bill will provide businesses with the confidence to participate in these types of transactions.

She went on to note that the government has charted an aggressive agenda to provide the space for businesses and the private sector to continue to grow, which in turn will develop the country’s economy.

In January 2022, the Attorney General said that as Guyana continues its upward development trajectory, the government will continue to pursue a transformative legislative agenda.

At that time, he had said that his ministry would be pursuing legislation enabling online transactions in the public sector to help bring Guyana into the modern era.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond (Adrian Narine photo)

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

STARR Computer President urges caution amid technology-related crimes

TECHNOLOGY has revolutionised how business is conducted, communicated, and interacted, making people’s lives easier, more efficient, and more productive. However, with the rise of technology comes an increase in technology-related crimes and computer scams.

This is according to the President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan, who noted that some individuals and a few businesses are also preying on consumers by selling refurbished computers in and out of Guyana.

He explained that "computer scams" refer to any illegal activity that involves the use of a computer or the internet. These scams can take various forms, including phishing, malware and spyware, etc.

These scams aim to deceive individuals or businesses into providing sensitive information or financial resources.

“As more natural resources, opportunities, and incentives become abundant in Guyana, many well intentioned international investors will be attracted. Simultaneously, many crooked scammers with bad intentions will be seeking their fortunes through unscrupulous means. We will begin to see more online imposters, investment scammers, real estate deceivers, romance cheaters, technology tricksters, natural disaster swindlers, amongst others. Consequently, the time has come for every Guyanese to constantly be on the alert and start paying special attention to all new opportunities resurrecting during this new era,” Mr. Mohan explained.

Mohan also added that some of the most common IT hardware scams involve selling refurbished computers and IT equipment. It is another scam if a customer is misled into purchasing a reconditioned or cloned IT product or pirated software as a new and original item.

Refurbished computers, he explained, have been previously owned, returned to their original reseller or manufacturer as a trade-in or due to defects, and then reconditioned for resale. These computers are usually sold at a lower price than brand-new computers with minimal or no warranty. And it often takes a while for new users to recognise that they got scammed.

But not all refurbished computers are created equal. Some individuals and businesses involved in selling refurbished computers engage in fraudulent activities. They may sell computers that have not been properly refurbished or may misrepresent the condition of the computer. In

“Scammers today are as innovative as genuine innovators. They target their victims through many standard marketing pathways from voice calls to postal letters and text messages to fake emails. And when that fails, they show up at your front door unexpectedly. Today from the comfort of their executive office, they use artificial intelligence through your IT devices to learn your habits to target you and your family. Therefore, we must all do our own due diligence before parting with our hardearned resources,” Mohan underscored.

some cases, the scammers may even resell stolen computers. The best advice is to purchase your IT equipment from reputable electronic stores that carry the manufacturers’ authorisation and warranties.

Mohan noted that individuals and businesses involved in computer scams operate online and offline. They may create fake websites, send phishing emails, or advertise on social media. They may also sell refurbished computers in person or through online marketplaces.

The consequences of falling victim to a computer scam can be devastating. Individuals and businesses may lose money, sensitive information, or even their entire computer system. In addition, these scams can damage the reputation of legitimate businesses and deter individuals from engaging in online activities.

“To protect themselves from computer scams, individuals and businesses should take several precautions. They should only purchase computers and IT equipment from reputable sellers and should research the seller before making a purchase. They should also use license software to keep their application updated, and strong passwords and data security protection to avoid data infiltration by hackers. And avoid clicking on suspicious links or emails from unknown sites,” Mr. Mohan noted.

Mohan warned that persons should be skeptical about ‘free product offerings’ or 'get rich quick' opportunities that seem too good to be true. “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Never cash a check for someone you don't know. Never click a link or download an attachment from someone you don't know. Don’t be pressured to act immediately with an emotional offer whether directly, phone call, or email.

And the list goes on. Soon scammers will pose as an employee from a familiar organisations seeking a side job by telling you there's a problem that needs immediate attention for an off-record discounted price which may often come with a deceptive motive,” the STARR Computer President highlighted.

He emphasised that high-level white-colour criminals will even blackmail victims and seek payments via bitcoin, prepaid debit cards and digital currencies. “These organised criminals often persuade victims to share their personal bank information, such as their bank account number, verification code, or PIN. Always remember, if you authorise a fund transfer or send money to a scammer, there is often little anyone can do to help get your money back.

As technology continues to shape people’s lives and the way they conduct business, Mr. Mohan said by taking the necessary precautions, individuals and businesses can protect themselves and prevent these fraudulent activities from reoccurring. “It is imperative that we always do our due diligence before parting with our hardearned resources.”

President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan

$170M restoration works at Friendship Water Treatment Plant moving apace

THE Friendship Water Treatment Plant on the East Coast of Demerara is currently undergoing restoration works to the tune of $170 million, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) disclosed on Friday.

In a press release, the entity stated that as part of the project, seven new filters have been installed to increase the treatment capacity of the plant.

Recently, GWI Project Director, Lt Col Marlon Daniels, and Engineer for the Friendship Project, Amanda Ramgobind, inspected the site to review the progress made so far. The project is being expedited to ensure it is completed within the shortest pos-

sible timeframe.

The newly installed filters will be linked to the plant's storage tank and are expected to produce approximately eight megaliters of water

per day.

“This will benefit about 7,000 residents from Annandale to Strathspey, including those residing in the new housing development

south of the railway line. Currently, GWI technicians are working on the interconnected pipes, which will be followed by electrical works to commence the resto -

ration project,” the release said.

The new filters and other works carried out by GWI will enable the processing of groundwater with high iron content

to meet the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) standards. This will provide much-needed relief to the residents served by the treatment plant. Additionally, the GWI has launched a large-scale water programme, which includes the construction of 12 new water-treatment plants and the upgrading of another 12.

The Government of Guyana aims to increase the coverage of treated water on the coastland to 90 per cent by 2025, and restoration of the Friendship plant is expected to bring GWI five to seven per cent closer to achieving this target, the release added.

A worker looks at the pipe work on the filters installed at the Friendship water-treatment plant (GWI photo)

First Lady commits to helping Tuschen family living in dilapidated house

A FAMILY of four was found to be in urgent need of assistance during a People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) walkabout by the Tuschen Phase 1 West Group.

Due to prostate cancer, 75-year-old Vibert Ward has spent the last three years confined to a bed.

The group also found out that Ward, his wife Dolly Ward, and their two daughters, ages 15 and 16, were solely dependent on his pension to survive.

Dolly told this publication that she would get domestic work “now and again” from people in the community, but it was challenging for her since she had to take care of her husband and her two children.

Upon hearing of the family’s plight, First Lady Arya Ali visited the family. She had earlier visited the site

where a multipurpose recreational park will be built. She was accompanied by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, and several regional officials.

Dolly, who was a bit under the weather due to the flu, was emotional, surprised, and grateful to see the First Lady and Minister Dharamlall.

While expressing her sadness to Dolly regarding her husband’s illness, Mrs. Ali reassured the distraught woman that she had visited her to let her know that she and the government were pledging to rebuild a home for her that would be furnished with a bathroom and other amenities so that she and her family would feel much safer and be able to live a more comfortable life.

The First Lady also explained to her that she had brought medical personnel

with her to assist her husband with any additional medical assistance he may need, free of cost. She said that this would ensure that all medical financial burdens are alleviated.

Meanwhile, Minister Dharamlall said that he is happy that the First Lady has recommended that they put her in the part-time job programme which will give her an additional $40,000 per month.

He also told her that she would only have to work 10 days a month and this would give her more time and money to contribute to her husband and children’s lives.

The First Lady asked Dolly to inform her when her daughters have completed her secondary education so that they can be given scholarships which will enable them to have a secure and successful future.

Mrs. Ali also told Dolly

that a temporary structure will be built in a section of the yard for them to occupy

until the new house is built. Dolly, who was in tears, expressed how

grateful she was for the visit and the commitments made. (Cindy Parkinson)

Minister Persaud engages stakeholders as Learning Lab nears completion

WITH 95 per cent of the work completed, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud engaged rep-

resentatives from various disability organisations as well as Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, to garner input on the soon - to - be

commissioned ‘ Learning Lab ’, a training and empowerment centre for persons with disabilities.

During an inspection of

the facility, which is being constructed at Mahaica, Minister Persaud explained that all stakeholders are being encouraged to come onboard “ This is a facility that involves a lot of stakeholders and as we move to completion and the formal opening of this facility , we invited some of the stakeholders to be fully involved in how we make this facility functional and operational We want to ensure when the centre is fully set up, we cater for all the varieties of disabilities so that persons will feel comfortable in the environment,” the minister said on Friday Programme Co-ordinator for the Guyana Society for the Blind , Ganesh Singh shared his thoughts on this move.

“What we are seeing now is transformative and this building, from what I experi-

enced will have a significant impact on the lives of people living with disabilities There is now space , not just for training but recreational purposes where persons can develop and learn living skills and I must congratulate the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, the Honorable Dr Vindhya Persaud for her vision for persons with disabilities As we have seen since she assumed the portfolio, a lot of what is in the Guyana Persons with Disabilities Act 2010 as it relates to the social services portfolio would have been implemented,” he said He added, “What we are seeing will definitely lift persons with disabilities out of poverty this is really making the lives of persons with disabilities a better one, a more meaningful one, and [they] are able to claim their

rightful place in society and I am very pleased with what I would have seen and what I have heard from Minister We have come a far way the minister ’ s approach of inclusivity is one we embrace …. including people who are the beneficiaries in the process of planning so that everything is as good as it could be for implementation.”

Sabane McIntosh of the Deaf Association of Guyana reasoned, “It’s a wonderful start Let’s hope it continues It is a beautiful building, very clean

We were given a guided tour and access for the blind, deaf, and wheelchair users is everywhere. When this building comes to life it is going to be a fantastic social space which is badly needed for persons with disabilities.” (DPI)

Dolly Ward stands near the house she shares with her ailing husband and two children

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud (second from right) along with Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton (extreme right), Ganesh Singh of the Guyana Society of the Blind (second from left) and Sabane McIntosh from the Guyana Deaf Association (extreme left) give feedback on the Learning Lab during the inspection (DPI photo)

SOME 200 children from across the country will benefit from sensory toy kits which were donated to the Ministry of Education by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).

The kits were handed over on Friday to Permanent Secretary Alfred King by GPL’s Corporate Secretary Laurian Bancroft, the ministry disclosed in a press release.

King thanked GPL for its continued support to the education sector, particularly its commitment towards raising awareness for Autism.

He highlighted that the donation contributes to the ministry’s efforts to transform the country’s education sector by providing access to quality education across the country.

King explained that to this end, more emphasis has been placed on Special Education Needs. He noted that the ministry is working to establish Special Education Needs spaces in every region.

Meanwhile, Bancroft reiterated GPL’s commitment to providing continued support. She said each kit consists of

various activities and objects designed to reduce anxiety, frustration, and

resulting behaviours to allow persons with Autism to better focus on

daily tasks and activities.

According to the ministry, GPL has been a

long-standing partner in raising awareness for Autism and was recently awarded a certificate of recognition for its continued support and contributions at the launch of Autism Awareness Month 2023.

In addition to donating the sensory kits, GPL has committed to providing yearly internships to young people with Autism which will provide an opportunity for one young person to gain appropriate exposure to the work environment at one of GPL's offices, the release added.

Education Ministry receives 200 sensory kits from GPL GPSU unveils banner in observance of Occupational Health and Safety Day 2023

THE Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) on Friday launched its banner for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Day 2023, at its Shiv Chanderpaul Drive headquarters.

last June.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton in a public message to workers, had explained that the observance would increase the level of awareness of employers, workers and trade unions as to the importance of safety and health at work, and their respective roles and responsibilities.

The minister urged employers to make that special effort to ensure that workplaces that employ more than 20 persons establish and maintain joint workplace safety and health committees. Those workplaces that employ five but less than 20 are urged as well to have a safety and health representative appointed.

to work together to share knowledge and to invest in resilient occupational safety and health systems.

He added that it is important that they reflect on the importance of safety and health in every aspect of their lives, be it at home, work or within their communities.

The GPSU’s First Vice-President, Dawn Gardener, on Friday disclosed that in observation of Occupational Health and Safety

Day, the GPSU has recognised the importance for OHS at workplaces and has decided to amend the rules of the union which will now allow workplaces to have a safety and health officer as well as a safety and health committee.

The committee will consist of members from a number of locations.

She explained that the inclusion of members from different locations is necessary, given that there is a

mandate for joint workplace safety and health meetings.

“A representative from the trade union must also be a representative of the joint workplace safety and health committee. So, we want to ensure that not only one member within the organisation has the knowledge as it relates to occupational safety and health,” stated Gardener.

Education Officer Vera Naughton, in delivering a message on behalf of the

union’s President Patrick Yarde, said that the GPSU strongly supports the establishment of Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committees which is catered for under Section 23 of the OHS Act.

The GPSU President added that the union strongly believes that more training should be done within workplaces, not only for the benefit of workers, but also equally for employers and their representatives.

April 28 is the designated day for Occupational Health and Safety Day, as well as World Day for Safety and Health at Work, 2023. This year’s theme, ‘A safe and healthy working environment is a fundamental principle and right at work,’ is in keeping with the declaration made by the International Labour Conference

“I must advise that these are legal requirements that are likely to have legal implications for those employers who do not comply,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH), Earl Morris, in his public message encouraged employees

“A safe and healthy working environment… is one of the five fundamental principles and rights at work as outlined by the ILO. The other equally important principles of the rights of workers are: freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour, the effective abolition of child labour, and finally, the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation,” Yarde said in his message.

Some of the sensory toys that were donated to the Ministry of Education

GPSU officials at OHS banner launch

GPSU Vice-President Dawn Gardener (Delano Williams photos)

IAEA, IICA agree on joint action to accelerate agricultural transformations in the Americas

THE directors general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Rafael Grossi and Manuel Otero, respectively, held a virtual meeting in which they agreed to increase collaboration between the two agencies to generate a positive impact in areas such as plant and animal health, for the benefit of Latin American and Caribbean countries and global food security.

During the meeting, directors Grossi and Otero, both of whom are Argentine nationals, discussed areas in which coopera -

tion can be strengthened, which are primarily related to specific diseases or pests, such as the Fusarium fungus or the screwworm, as well as technological innovations.

Other areas highlighted were knowledge-intensive agriculture and the role of science and innovation for agricultural and rural

development.

“Nuclear technology contributes to sustainable agriculture and food security. I am delighted to have been able to meet with Manuel Otero, Director General of IICA, with whom I have agreed to strengthen collaboration between the IAEA and IICA for the benefit

of Latin American countries,” remarked Grossi after the meeting.

“We agreed to intensify contact between our technical teams and to sign an agreement based on concrete and verifiable actions, possibly in July. It was a very pleasant meeting between two Argentine directors general

who project their country’s image at the international and regional levels.

Rafael Grossi conducts substantial work at the international level, and through its work in the hemisphere, IICA is also seeking to bolster international recognition of the region’s crucial role for food security”, noted Otero.

The IAEA and IICA have been collaborating and exchanging information since at least 2007, with a view to addressing new challenges related to food security.

One area of cooperation will be combatting the Tropical Race 4 (TR4) fusarium wilt disease,

which seriously threatens global banana production. With the support of IICA, the IAEA recently trained scientists from six Latin American countries in using nuclear and related techniques to detect and contain the disease.

The IAEA assists member states in Latin America and the Caribbean in the prevention and progressive control of the screwworm, which causes a parasitic infestation of the body that affects animals and humans. The most devastating effect is on livestock production, through mortality and reduced milk and meat yields. (IICA)

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and Manuel Otero, Director General of IICA

McKenzie and Wickham lead WI Academy resistance – 3rd day, 2nd match

(CMC) - A majestic, maiden first-class double hundred from opener Kirk McKenzie, and a composed, maiden first-class hundred from Kevin Wickham led a dominant West Indies Academy batting against Team Weekes in the second match of the Headley-Weekes Tri-Series on Friday in Antigua.

McKenzie was undefeated on 209 and Wickham was unbeaten on 104, and the Academy reached 378 for four, replying to the Team Weekes first innings total of 401, at the close on the third day of the four-day,

first-class match at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Left-hander McKenzie reached his milestone from 340 balls when he slapped a delivery from Test left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul through covers for his 25th four, and Wickham reached his landmark soon after from 196 balls with a languid, lofted drive over long-off for six off the same bowler.

McKenzie, 22, who made his first-class debut last year for Jamaica Scorpions, cracked 25 fours and one six from 365 balls and was a model of concentration during his seven hours and 40

minutes stay in the middle.

Wickham, 20, who made his first-class debut for Barbados Pride, coincidentally against a Scorpions line-up that included McKenzie this past February at this same venue, has struck only eight fours and one six from 223 balls and was a reliable ally in 4-1/4 hours at the crease.

The former West Indies Under-19 pair hardly put a foot wrong after they came together in the second hour of the day when Kevlon Anderson and Tevin Imlach fell to their Guyana Harpy Eagles off-spin bowling

teammate, Kevin Sinclair, in the span 10 balls, and Team Weekes were 149 for four.

McKenzie and Wickham batted for the rest of the day, sharing 229 unbroken for the fifth wicket and enabling the Academy to make enough progress to feel confident of taking the inaugural Tri-Series ti-

tle after last week’s defeat of Team Headley.

The Academy started the day on 89 for two, and Team Weekes got an early signal that they may endure a long, hard grind when McKenzie and Anderson batted through the first hour and completed an 81-run stand for the third wicket.

Sinclair got the breakthrough when he had Anderson caught at forward short leg for 26 in his fourth over, and followed up when he had Imlach caught at cover for a thirdball duck in his next over, but Team Weekes failed to make further headway after McKenzie and Wickham knuckled down.

New Era/ Exxonmobil Linden Under-18 Secondary School Football…

‘Multi’ faces LTI in today’s final...

Linden Technical Institute and Christianburg/ Wismar Secondary will battle today in the final of the New Era/ ExxonMobil Linden Secondary School Under-18 football championship.

The final takes place at the Wisburg Secondary School ground from 16:00hrs.

Before the final, the

third-place playoff between New Silvercity Secondary and Mackenzie High will be played at 14:00hrs.

To reach the final, Linden Technical Institute beat New Silvercity Secondary 4-1 game with Dixie Peters (10th minute), Alonzo Christian (43rd) and Radensio Tudor (48th and 60th).

Clinton Charles netted the lone goal for new Sil-

vercity Secondary in the 51st minute.

Christianburg/Wismar Secondary ‘Multi’ however advanced from their semifinal clash against Mackenzie High via a penalty shoot-out, with a 5-3 score-line, after regulation and extra time could not break a nil-all stalemate.

CMC – Concacaf has targetted next year for the launch of a women’s club football tournament.

According to a media release from the football confederation, its council discussed the proposal for the tournament on Wednesday and agreed in principle to launch it early next year.

“The ongoing growth and development of women’s football is a major priority for Concacaf,” Concacaf president and FIFA vicepresident, Victor Montagliani, said.

“Since we launched our Concacaf W strategy in 2019, we have enhanced our women’s national team calendar and delivered tremendous competitions which are driving development across the region.

“The next phase of our strategy is to focus on a women’s club platform and, while there remains work to be done on the detail, this is a very important step

towards the launch of an exciting new competition next year.”

Concacaf indicated the tournament was in keeping

the previous cycle of tournaments.

Concacaf’s new women’s national team tournaments include the Concacaf W Qualifiers and W Championship, and the upcoming Road to W Gold Cup and the inaugural Concacaf W Gold Cup, which is scheduled for February and March 2024.

Football kicks off May 13

with the work of the sport’s world governing body FIFA, to develop a Women’s Club World Cup, which was announced last December.

The confederation added the new women’s club tournament followed an entire revamp of its women’s national team calendar for 2021-2024, which includes more than double the number of official matches across the region compared with

The format and further details of the new women’s club tournament will be determined and communicated later this year, once the confederation has received further information regarding the format and slot allocation for the new FIFA Women’s Club World Cup, and has held further discussions with stakeholders.

The new women’s club tournament will include clubs from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean and will be the sole qualification route for Concacaf clubs to the FIFA Women’s Club World Cup.

THE expanded ExxonMobil Boys and Girls Under-14 School’s tournament, co-ordinated by the Petra organisation, will make a start on May 13 and conclude on June 17.

Last year there were 32 teams in total, this year, it has grown to 48 teams – 32 boys and 16 girls – for the fourth edition.

Saturdays will be the main playing day at the NIS Ground on Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, while the finals are next door at the Ministry of Education ground.

At the official launch on Friday at Cara Lodge, the organisers and sponsor

expressed excitement over what lies ahead and the potential impact it could have on overall youth development.

According to Ryan Hoppie, Community Relations Adviser for ExxonMobil Guyana, “For us at ExxonMobil, establishing meaningful relationships that benefit communities are an integral part of our global/social enhancement efforts…it is part of our efforts to make positive contributions in Guyana; contributions that will be of value to your communities.”

More so, Marti De Souza, Deputy Chief Education Officer, re-emphasised the

Ministry of Education’s endeavour to have each student learn at least one sport in a bid to produce more rounded students.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, applauded the stakeholders for taking the necessary step of presenting a platform for young talent to display their skills which can then filter into the Ministry’s National Academy.

The cash prizes, which go towards school grants, are $300,000 (first), $150,000 (second), $70,000 (third), and $50,000 (fourth), along with individual accolades.

Guyana-born heads N/America’s Largest Muslim Sporting Event...

Islamic Games 2023 to be bigger than ever!

By Sean Devers

THE largest Muslim sports and athletic event in North America, the Annual Islamic Games, is expected to attract a massive turnout by teams and athletes especially given the appetite for sports events after the COVID lockdown.

The Games, which should attract over 240 male and female teams in all age categories is the brainchild of Salaudeen Nausrudeen, a Guyana-born sports management specialist who resides in Orlando, FL.

The event is scheduled for June 3-4, 2023 in Metuchen, NJ and June 25, 2023 in Toronto, Canada and will see over 3000 competing in basketball, soc-

cer, cricket, volleyball, flag football, track & field, archery, table tennis, martial arts, strength competition and arm wrestling.

“We have been planning the Games since last year and we’re happy that we have a suitable venue that can accommodate the size and the scope of the Games with ease,” revealed Salaudeen Nausrudeen, President of the Islamic Games of North America.

According to Nausrudeen, the venue for the USA Games is the St. Joseph’s High School in Metuchen NJ, a 70+ acre campus with first class sports facilities including six basketball courts, 10+ soccer fields, two cricket grounds, two football fields, upgraded gyms,

newly installed track and a fully padded martial arts gym.

The Games started more than twenty-five years ago and has been a platform for Muslim schools, teams, leagues, athletes and sports organisations to meet, compete and have an enjoyable time.

“The Games is one of the most diverse events and represents a full spectrum of the Muslim world. More than 40 nationalities, 75+ Muslim organisations/leagues and more than 35 Islamic schools are represented at the Games.

The Islamic Games was conceptualized and developed to provide an atmosphere for Muslim teams and athletes to come together to compete, learn and enjoy the brotherhood

of each other. He invited youth and adult teams from Guyana to attend and participate in basketball, soccer, volleyball and cricket.

More significantly, the Islamic Games provides a platform for Muslim girls and women to compete without compromising their values” he explained.

While the majority of the attendees are Muslims, the Islamic Games is open to any team or athlete from other religious denominations.

“We are happy that the Islamic Games is a place of unity and celebration of our diversity, a foundational approach to building strong resilient societies, and what’s better than sports to achieve these goals,”

Mayers, Pooran help LSG past Punjab Kings

CMC – West Indies left-handed batting duo of Kyle Mayers and Nicholas Pooran teed off in a run fest that catapulted Lucknow Super Giants to a 56-run win against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League on Friday.

Mayers set the platform with 54 off 24 balls, and Pooran provided a strong finish with 45 off 19 balls, and LSG posted the highest total for the season of 257 for five from their allocation of 20 overs after being put into bat at the I.S. Bindra Stadium in Mohali.

Yash Thakur then took four for 37 from 3.5 overs and Naveen-ul-Haq supported with three for 30 from his allotted four overs to lead the LSG bowling, and the demolition of the Kings batting for

201 in 19.5 overs.

The win was the fifth in eight matches for LSG, propelling them to 10 points – one of four teams with that number – but their scoring

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday April 29th, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Harry Brook - 100* (SH vs KKR)

(2) Mark Wood - 5/14 (Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many games were scheduled for IPL 2012?

(2) Which two teams contested the first IPL game in 2012?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

rate in the match gave a significant boost to their net run rate and moved them into second behind Rajasthan Royals, and ahead of Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings.

The Kings were jolted early in the chase when their captain Shikhar Dhawan was caught at deep backward point off Marcus Stoinis for one in the first over, and Impact Player Prabhsimran Singh was caught at deep backward square for nine off Naveen in the fourth over.

Atharva Taide, whose 66 off 36 balls was the top score, counter-attacked, including taking three fours off a single over from Avesh Khan, and the Kings ended the Power Play on 55 for two.

asked Nausrudeen, who studied Marketing/Advertising in New York.

Nausrudeen was born in 1967 in Skeldon, Berbice and his father was an accomplished weightlifter.

“I was about 10 when my family left Guyana. My dad was senior staff at Bookers working as a scientist.

“But after President Burnham nationalized Bookers, Dad did not want a politician to tell him how to do his work and so he left Guyana.

“I grew up in NY and after graduating from college I returned to Guyana where I lived until 2003. I was a founder of the Islamic Games when in High school,” informed Nausrudeen, who disclosed that he

gets funding for the Games through sponsorship and is in partnership with many Muslim organisations, leagues and associations.

The objective is to inspire Muslim athletes to develop character and skills to reach their maximum athletic and personal potentials – Strong Inside, Strong Outside!

The mission is to provide organised and structured competitive opportunities to inspire Muslim athletes to pursue their potentials, while developing heathy habits for strong communities.

For more information, visit: www.islamic-games. com and for media enquiries: info@islamic-games.com or 917-962-78

Taide and Zimbabwe international Sikandar Raza rebuilt the innings at a fair clip with a stand of 78 for the third wicket, and enabled the Kings to reach 93 for two at the halfway stage.

Raza made 36, but he was caught at deep point off Thakur, and Taide gave a return catch to Ravi Bishnoi from a top-edged slog sweep in successive overs to set back the Kings chase.

The required rate continued to climb and rose above 20, and though the rest of the Kings batting put up a valiant fight, it was always going to be an uphill battle to chase down the second highest total in IPL history.

Earlier, Mayers went on the attack straight away, smashing India left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh for four fours in the second over.

He struck seven fours and four sixes in his knock before he was caught at mid-on off South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada with one ball remaining in the Power Play.

LSG ended the Power Play on 74 for two, but Australian international Marcus Stoinis with the top score of 72 off 40 balls, Pooran, and Ayush Badoni with 43 from 24 balls, battered the Kings bowling into submission.

Canadian Racing Tips

Woodbine

Race 1 Fedaline

Race 2 Kauk0kaipuu

Race 3 Let’s Run Two

Race 4 Hatmaker Holiday

Race 5 Keries Beauty

Race 6 Where Is Essa

Race 7 Blind Spot

Race 8 Emicrack

American Racing Tips

Aqueduct

Race 1 Photon

Race 2 Lady Beth

Race 3 Mispelled Mooon

Race 4 Angelique

Race 5 Shadow Sphinx

Race 6 My Sea Cottage

Race 7 Ginnsu Warrior

Race 8 Zandon

English Racing Tips

Sandown

08:05 hrs

Kyle Mayers blasts one of his boundaries for Lucknow Super Giants against Punjab Kings in the IPL on Friday (IPLT20 photo)

BTTSC host youth table tennis tournament today in Bartica

SLB sponsors inter-school kayaking competition

SLB are title sponsors of tomorrow’s inter-school Kayaking competition set for the Watooka Guest House in Linden.

According to head of the Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours and organising committee, Dr. Deon Anderson, the event will take place in the Demerara River aback the Watooka Guest House.

Guyana Tourism Authority, Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport are all in full support, financially, of the event.”

The Bartica Table Tennis Steering Committee (BTTSC) will be hosting a Youth Table Tennis Tournament today at the Bartica Community Centre Building from 09:30hrs. This tournament is being

sponsored by the Guyana Committee of Service.

There will be trophies for both the Male and Female Categories for the first, second and third positions.

Keen table tennis

contests are being anticipated from participating primary school students who are all based in and around the municipality of Bartica, in the 7-11 years categories. (Sean Devers)

Tiger Rentals Guyana U-13 League Cup set for next weekend

According to him, ““SLB (formerly called Schlumberger) are our title sponsors and they are sponsoring over $1M towards the event both for the inter schools Kayaking Competition which is tomorrow (Sunday) and the inter district championship in July.”

He said, “SLB is the world's leading supplier of reservoir characterization, drilling, production and processing technology, integrated project management and information solutions to the international oil and gas exploration and production industry.”

“Kayaking, as a sport, endorses the ideals of SLB’s vision of cleaner energy approaches, zero carbon footprint and a decarbonized energy future for a

Dr. Deon Anderson

sustainable environment of tomorrow.”

The event is being done in collaboration with the Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani Sports Committee (UDKSC).

The organiser also added, “Banks DIH is a huge sponsor of the event, also sponsoring the energy drinks and refreshments keeping our athletes in energized and refreshed throughout the competition. Also, they have given in excess of half a million dollars in support of trophies, prizes and other critical items. The

This year's school' kayaking competition which starts from 10.00hrs tomorrow (Sunday) will see eleven secondary schools contesting the championship including defending champions Harmony Secondary (HSS), Mackenzie High (MHS), Christianburg/Wismar Secondary. (CWSS), Wisburg Secondary. (WSS), New Silvercity Secondary (NSS), Linden Foundation Secondary (LFS), and Kwakwani Secondary (KSS); and from Georgetown: Queen’s College (QC), St. Stanislaus College, St. Roses High, and St. Josephs High (SJH).

Each team comprises eight (8) participants along with two (2) substitutes/ additional to bring the total team members to ten (10) participants: 5 males and 5 females. The team members will participate in a total of seven (7) races.

Boxing coach Blake presented with Cutman Technician certificate

THE historic Tiger Rentals Guyana under-13 development football initiative is set to conclude next weekend at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Centre at Providence with the League Cup tournament.

Tiger Rentals Guyana, in collaboration with the GFF, has seen an investment of over $10M in this project that has seen each member association (MA) of the GFF hosting an

intra-association league, along with the National inter-association league that was won by East Coast, and now 10 select teams will clash for the historic U-13 League Cup.

Action kicks off on Labour Day and concludes on Sunday, May 7th, and during those three days, the National Training Centre will be a hive of activity with a total of 25 anticipated matches set to kick off.

There will be two groups

in the League Cup and the competition will be contested in the group round-robin format with the winners of Group A playing the winners of Group B to determine the overall champion. Group A will comprise East Coast, West Demerara, East Bank, West Berbice and Rupununi. Meanwhile, Group B will see Bartica, Essequibo/Pomeroon, Upper Demerara, East Berbice and Georgetown matching skills.

HISTORY was set yesterday as three-star trainer, Sebert Blake, was officially presented with his IBA Cutman Technician Certificate following the successful completion of the programme, confirming his status as the only Guyanese with such a distinguished accreditation.

Blake, who is part of a cadre of three-star coaches in the Caribbean, is the first-ever Guyanese to partake in, and successfully complete the programme, which occurred at the Women's World Championship in New Delhi, India from March 15-31. Blake scored in the 90th percentile to finish among

the highest successful candidates.

President of the Guyana Boxing Association, Steve Ninvalle, said, “This is another tangible achievement, representation, and overall testament of human development by the GBA in its technical officers. Coach Blake is already in exulted company as one of a minute cadre of three-star coaches in the Caribbean and now adds to his developing portfolio by becoming the first Guyanese to secure such a prestigious certification.”

He further said, “2023 has been earmarked as a year for progressive development and the GBA will continue in this evolution-

ary route. The discipline, but more specifically, the boxers and the coaches will be provided with the avenues and tools to enhance and hone their individual faculties. In particular, the formation of an assembly line of competent technical officers is a major objective of the association, with Coach Blake simply serving as the start or template of such a procedure.”

GBA Technical Director,, Terrence Poole, will be the second Guyanese to participate in the significant programme which will be conducted at the Men’s World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from 1st-4th of May.

The young kids at last year’s event

The historic Tiger Rentals Guyana under-13 League Cup tournament is set for next week

Expanded ExxonMobil Boys and Girls Schools Football kicks off May 13

McKenzie and Wickham lead WI Academy resistance – 3rd day, 2nd match

Boxing coach Blake presented with Cutman Technician certificate

Historic! GBA President Steve Ninvalle (right) presenting the IBA Cutman Technician Certificate to three-star trainer, Sebert Blake, following the successful completion of the programme. Also in photo is GBA executive, Seon Bristol

Organisers and sponsors with the sponsorship cheque on Friday

Kevin Wickham (left) and Kirk McKenzie shared a double-hundred stand in the Headley-Weekes TriSeries on Friday in Antigua. (CWI Media photo)