Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 30-06-2023

- under new, reformed

Massive support imminent for 5,000 existing, prospective entrepreneurs

SLED programme

By Tamica Garnett

APPROXIMATELY 5,000 individuals across the country are expected to benefit this year from the Sustainable Livelihood Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme under the current administration, after it was re-designed to give out smaller grants through a better accountability system.

The grants under the SLED programme will be part of over $1.8 billion in grants that are being injected back into small businesses across the country.

This was according to Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during an interview, on Wednesday, when he addressed issues regarding backlogs of grants for small businesses.

The roll out of the grants will be handled by the Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) and will take place over the next few months.

“I anticipate that from the SLED programme, you'll have about 5,000 people receiving the help across the

country,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

He added: “We have reformed the programme and reduced the sum so more people can benefit, and we have also prohibited Members of Parliament from getting any money from this grant. We now still have to roll this out across the country. So, if you live in the Berbice Region, Region Three or Region Ten it would be done over the course of the next few months; we just haven't done it as yet.”

According to Dr. Jagdeo, some distribution of grants has begun in Region

Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); however, it will be done incrementally across the entire country.

Over the years, the SLED programme had become an infamous point of contention, since, under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration the programme had been riddled with mismanagement, lack of accountability, and several instances of what amounted to “fraud and criminality” in the spending, which were unearthed.

It was under this programme that a number of parliamentarians and government officials under the previous administration benefitted from millions of dollars of grant funding, in many instances without ever setting up the proposed business for which they received the funding.

One APNU Parliamentarian handled as much as $165 million under the pretext of setting up an organisation in the Rupununi.

To avoid this kind of “dubious management” of one person being given multi-millions to handle, under its new dispensation there will be a $200,000 limit per grant, which enables more persons to benefit.

“We cut down on the onerous nature of the application process because you could have easily given this grant like what happened in the past, when $10 million went to one person and only 150 persons would have benefitted for the country. To simplify it, people apply through the regions, applications are reviewed; there's a screening process that takes

place at the region and then they get it,” Dr. Jagdeo explained

He added: “What is happening is now we have allowed the Region to do a survey. Because it's a small grant, it’s not millions of dollars its $200,000. They [applicants] have to demonstrate that they have a small business and the small business will be, [for example, selling water]. With this grant you might be able to buy stocks. Remember, it's a small amount of money but for a small business person, $200,000 would mean a lot. They would be able to restock and it would not be too much.”

Launched in 2015, the SLED programme was initially set up with the aim of benefitting single parents and other vulnerable citizens in job creation and business ventures.

The programme provided funding to individual persons or organisations to support entrepreneurial activities, particularly in the areas of agriculture, livestock and apiculture.

A total of $760 million

was disbursed under the SLED programme during the APNU+AFC time in government from 2015 to 2020, in increments of $115 million, $40 million, $100 million, $150 million, $250 million and $105 million, respectively.

Under the programme, projects were funded in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Nine and 10. However, despite all of the money being dispersed, to date many of the projects have not even been completed or citizens have not benefitted from it.

In 2021 a special audit was launched into the management of the programme from 2015 - 2020.

The capital programme was first catered for under the then Ministry of Communities, but was later transferred to the then Ministry of Social Protection. In 2020, it was then transferred to the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development through which it is currently being administered.

‘Eid’ promotes compassion, selflessness, and solidarity

- Islamic leaders say, as Muslims observe auspicious day

By Rabindra Rooplall

MUSLIMS countrywide on Thursday celebrated Eidul-Adha, a joyous occasion which holds deep religious and cultural significance, and is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion.

President of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) Al Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad, in his message, said that Eid-ul-Adha has arrived, and it is a season of happiness, family bonding, nurturing mutual compassion, love, and support for the poor; values that are important to Guyanese and the larger community.

Eid, he said, is also an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity, adding: “We celebrate Eid-ul-Adha in the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which signifies the counting down to the end of

another year.”

Deputy CIOG President

Goolzar Namdar, who operates a masjid at Meten-MeerZorg, (West), in West Demerara, told this publication that the occasion is also known as Qurbani, which is celebrated during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal; a goat, sheep or cow

to reflect Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail.

Ismail, he said, was spared because Ibrahim proved he would sacrifice his son as an act of piety, despite the grief it would have caused him. The continued practice of sacrifice acts as a reminder of Ibrahim’s obedience to God.

“From giving charity to sharing a smile with another person, Eid teaches us to be at peace, and sacrifice little things that lead us towards selflessness and awareness of one’s being,” the Deputy CIOG President said.

Sheik Husain, 72, of the Peters Hall Masjid, told this publication that the sacrifice associated with Eid-ul-Adha is about blessing others, while acknowledging the blessings of the Creator.

He said that all aspects of Islam deal with sincerity, and not acts of formality or business, and those who forgot the true essence and meaning of Eid-ul-Adha will not receive the true blessings.

Husain underscored that Eid-ul-Adha not only serves as a religious holiday, but also promotes values such as compassion, selflessness, and solidarity. It is a time for Muslims to reflect on their faith, express gratitude, and

renew their commitment to serving humanity.

A TIME OF TOGETHERNESS

Kitty Masjid members agreed that apart from the religious customs, Eid-ul-Adha is a time of togetherness, celebration, and acts of kindness. Families and friends come together to exchange

greetings and gifts, visit one another, and partake in delicious traditional dishes.

Imam of Meten-MeerZorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan also told this publication, “Islamic teachings emphasise ethical slaughter, known as Halal meat, which prioritises animal welfare.

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Imam of Meten-Meer-Zorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan overseeing the parceling and distribution of beef

Sheik Husain of Peters Hall Masjid

TURN TO PAGE 7

Gov’t pushing for audits of various local organs

IN light of questionable sale and leasing of lands in Georgetown and the Plaisance/Industry Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Wednesday, said that the government will be supporting the audit of any Local Authority Areas

- in light of questionable sales, leasing of lands in Georgetown, other LAAs

(LAAs) where mismanagement and questionable transactions are prevalent.

The Vice-President used the example of issues at the Plaisance/Industry NDC regarding ancestral lands, which might have been leased out to the point where there needs to be an audit to bring resolution to

the issue.

“Anywhere that there are questions that are publicly raised about lack of accountability, there should be an audit. In this case, we've had at least three instances where there were complaints about the sale of land in Plaisance by the NDC.

“We've had three public cases that were in the newspapers, so I feel that it is only fair to the people

that thus NDC says exactly what happened and the best way to do that is to have an audit. So, anywhere there is question of accountability, we would have to do an audit,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

According to the Vice-President, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) will be using the inroads gained in many of the LAAs to push for better accountability, whether the party has a majority or not.

In cases where the party may not have a majority, according to Dr. Jagdeo, there is consideration to have the audits ordered by central government.

“Through the ministry we can direct the audit and we will do so,” the Vice-President said.

He acknowledged too that there are still remaining concerns over similar selling and leasing of lands in the capital city through the Mayor and City Council (MCC), which is controlled by the A Partnership of National Unity (APNU).

There has also been reported cases of obscure transactions involving the writing off or wavering of taxes to businesses arbitrarily without proper records of how amounts are arrived at or how the agreement came about.

“I am concerned about Georgetown too. Georgetown is another place where I know for sure and I raised this on the campaign trail that there are some individuals who have been identifying plots of land owned by the city and going by private businessmen to get them sold or give them leases in exchange for payment on the side.

“Unfortunately some of those same individuals are backed by APNU on the City Council. APNU have a way of spinning things, you have to admire them for telling the big lies and stick with them,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

In 2018, during a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into City Hall it was uncovered that the Council had leased a land on Lombard Street referred to as the “Sussex Street Wharf,” despite not having ownership

of the land.

After the businessman spent considerable money developing the area, and paying the lease, he was later approached by two other entities that claimed ownership of the property. It remains unknown how that issue was resolved.

That very COI also unearthed cases where businesses were given tax waivers by the then Town Clerk, but was later told to pay over millions to the Council.

The PPP has gained 11 seats on the 30-seat council; this is an increase from the seven seats the party had at the last Local Government Elections (LGEs). And the party hopes to use its increased voice to deal with some of these known issues at the Council

“We will be pushing heavily our 11 councilors in there to live stream the proceedings. I hope they will accept live streaming of proceedings, and secondly we want to find out about all the land deals done in the city. And anybody who has to have a waiver of the taxes it must be done through a transparent open process.

“Not the mayor and a group of councilors negotiating with businessmen. Where you owe $10 million in taxes you also owe $10 million, but one person gets $5 million written off and another gets $3 million written off and another person gets $2 million written off. That is what they're good at doing all of that… that has to change. That is important for us we're watching it carefully,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

Minister McCoy condemns APNU/AFC’s ‘obstructionist antics’ at Plaisance

- says gov’t open to dialogue on legitimate and genuine concerns of Guyanese

THE government has appealed to Guyanese to understand that the country’s destiny will not be realised through violence and intimidation, but rather, through dialogue, respect for the rule of law, and democratic values.

This was according to Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy who condemned the behaviour of APNU/ AFC “mobsters,” who, on Tuesday, sought to obstruct vendors from attending a meeting with Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and other government ministers.

The meeting sought to address concerns about their relocation from the Plaisance railway embankment to facilitate the construction of a modern four-lane highway, which will bring relief to thousands of residents who rely on the road link into the city.

According to Minister McCoy, vendors requested and were provided with an opportunity to dialogue with the government in a cordial atmosphere of mutual respect and understand-

ing.

However, he said that “clandestine and desperate opposition cabal

targetted as peddled by the opposition,” Minister McCoy said.

He said that the

remains open to dialogue on the legitimate and genuine concerns of Guyanese, but expressed

and moral obligation as leaders through dialogue with Guyanese on contentious issues and

this very pivotal moment to realise that our destiny will not be realised through vio -

led by political opportunists” sought to take advantage of vendors’ genuine frustrations and sought to incite violence outside of the venue.

“Many of the vendors complained that they were physically accosted by opposition forces who tried to dissuade them from entering the meeting. For their own selfish political reasons, APNU+AFC wanted to stop the meeting because it suits their narrative, but the vendors are much wiser having engaged with the Government and understanding that they are not being

government has noted the “escalating pattern from the opposition APNU+AFC, which is hoping to create distractions from their disastrous showing at the Local Government Elections and internal squabble over leadership, where they are transporting supporters to hijack protests on legitimate causes by Guyanese.”

The minister emphasised that government

disdain at those who not only reside outside of the community, but whose actions serve only the interests of a select few with no regard for the peaceful co-existence and unity of Guyanese.

“In the exercise of Government’s mandate under the democratic principles of openness, fairness and transparency, we continue to dispense of our duty

to find common ground on moving forward in the interest of our shared developmental goals.

“We sincerely appeal to Guyanese at

lence and intimidation but through dialogue, respect for the rule of law, and democratic values,” Minister McCoy concluded.

Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, ministers of government, including Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy and other representatives attended the meeting at Plaisance

A vision for development

OVER the years, Guyana and Suriname have enjoyed good relations. In fact, travel and economic activity between the two countries have been booming.

Thousands of Guyanese and Surinamese are ferried across the river by boat each year for business, enjoyment or to reconnect or visit relatives and friends.

There are many who would like to visit, but the thought of having to use a speedboat or even the ferry to cross this enormous river quickly turns to fear.

Water scares many peo-

ple and so when it was announced that the two countries were discussing building a bridge, many welcomed the idea.

It ignited thoughts of a quicker, less stressful voyage between the two shores. It could eliminate the rush to get to the stelling for the schedule trips or the long wait to board.

The occasional suspension of the ferry due mainly to mechanical issues was another irritating situation, which often times forced many reluctant passengers to use the backtrack boats

that are moored at specific locations on both sides on the river.

In November 2020, during a three-day visit by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali to Suriname, the two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the joint bridging of the river.

This occurred following visits to the bridge’s landing areas in Guyana and Suriname and Long Island (Lange Island) in the middle of the river where the two-section bridge will be connected.

Earlier this week the

design was unveiled. It was further disclosed that after the bidding process closes on August 1, both countries will evaluate those bids and they should be ready to sign a bridge building contract by October.

This ought to be exciting news for citizens of both countries.

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Works of Suriname Dr. Riad Nurmohamed have both highlighted the enormous benefits both countries will reap.

Aside from being a key

driver of economic activity in terms of trade and tourism, the bridge signals progress for both countries and a social connection which will forge stronger cultural bonds and encourage knowledge-sharing in a number of areas.

It paves the way for a five-hour long drive from Georgetown to Paramaribo, which guarantees increased efficiency and safety.

Guyana and Suriname share a good relationship and given the amount of travel between the two, it should have been at the top

of the agenda, especially for Guyana.

Within months of being elected to office in 2020, the PPP/C pursued this project to the point where landing sites were identified and a consultant was hired to conduct feasibility and design studies.

Life is about to get a whole lot easier for Guyanese and Surinamese. They will be able to benefit directly and indirectly from the significant development that is anticipated to take place in a number of sectors.

Has the PPP/C been able to make significant inroads into the APNU stronghold of Georgetown?

The People’s Progress Party/Civic (PPP/C) had infused the 2023 Local Government Elections (LGE) 2023 with a vibrancy unparalleled in Guyana’s history.

Guided by their unifying philosophy of “One Guyana” (founded upon core principles of diversity, inclusion, fairness, and rejection of racism), which has become the cornerstone for both central and local governments, the PPP/C believes that this approach has given impetus to their vision of progress, development, and prosperity for all Guyanese.

The PPP/C’s LGE 2023 campaign was designed not only to enumerate the tangible benefits of their unifying philosophy, but also to utilise their people-oriented and pro-growth/development approach to make electoral inroads, particularly in the APNU strongholds of Georgetown, New Amsterdam, and Linden.

The PPP/C’s performance

at LGE 2023 did rattle the nerves of APNU operatives, as they learnt that the PPP/C has secured important electoral gains in their (APNU’s) strongholds of Georgetown and New Amsterdam, and to a lesser extent in Linden.

The PPP/C, for example, has increased its proportion of total valid votes from 7.8 per cent (or 402) in 2018 to 23.5 per cent (or 2,464) in 2023, compared with APNU’s increase in proportion from 70.3 per cent (or 3,606)

in 2018 to 76.5 per cent (or 8002) in 2023.

The relative gain of the PPP/C is significant and the party believes that by receiving six times more votes in 2023 than in 2018, in addition to having two PR seats on the City Council, they have now positioned themselves to expand their reach in Linden.

For this analysis, however, focus is given exclusively to the LAA (Local Authority Area) of Georgetown. The stakes are high: the Mayor

and Town Council have had no sharp vision for the city’s development and have allowed it to deteriorate.

Recognising the crucial role that the country’s capital must play in the transformation of Guyana, the PPP/C government had to intervene to arrest its downward slide through a combination of projects in construction/rehabilitation of roads, improvement of drainage, creation of new parks, beautification projects, among other things.

The PPP/C reckons that if they win Georgetown, it would be easier to transition it into a modern city. They invested substantial time and resources to woo voters to support their agenda and vote for them.

They utilised their new governance model (taking government to the people) and extolled their citywide accomplishments, noting that they have fulfilled all their 2020 election campaign promises.

In addition, their mantra of diversity, inclusion, and fairness resonated well with citizens. The PPP/C felt that their approach has helped to allay fears of ethnic insecurity and lead to the development of trust among many voters who had traditionally supported and voted for APNU.

How did these attributes play among voters? There was an increase in voter turnout rate (VTR) by three per cent (from 24 per cent in 2018 to 27 per cent in 2023), which based on the results, suggests that the increase in VTR benefited the PPP/C more than APNU. Of note is that the VTR varied among the 15 constituencies.

The PPP/C received four more seats (two constituency and two PR) than they had in LGE 2018. The PPP/C now has 11 seats at the City Council (five constituency and six PR). The PPP/C’s proportion of total votes in Georgetown increased from 24.8 per cent (or 7,050) to 36.7 per cent (or

12,553) compared with a decline in proportion for APNU from 63.7 per cent (or 18,127) in 2018 to 60.9 per cent (or 20,839) in 2023.

While the PPP/C won 67 (83.7 per cent) of 80 LAAs countrywide, they have made it pellucid that notwithstanding the LGE 2023 results, they would continue to work to improve every LAA in the country, including Georgetown into which they made significant inroads into the APNU base.

They will continue with their neighborhood revitalisation programmes, job creation, small business grants, scholarship grants, establishment of regional hospitals, Amerindian affairs, housing development, potable water distribution, among other projects. The PPP/C’s ‘One Guyana’ philosophy would continue to guide policy making and implementation.

Sincerely

Dr Tara Singh

Plaisance vendors chose development as opposed to the opposition’s confrontational politics

Dear Editor,

Since the conclusion of the Local Government Elections (LGEs), the PPP/C has gone on a

country-wide outreach in all constituencies to foster a better relationship between the central government and local

constituencies

This move by the PPP/C should be applauded as it shows their willingness to support

‘Eid’ promotes...

FROM PAGE 3

Halal slaughter encompasses the humane treatment of animals throughout their lives, ensuring they are not mistreated or subjected to pain. It also includes providing them with sufficient space to roam, get clean water, nutritious food, and fresh air.”

Khan related that one of the essential traditions of Eid-ul-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, typically a cow, or sheep, or goat. This act emulates Ibrahim’s devotion to God, and serves as a reminder of the importance of selflessness and sharing.

“The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three equal parts: One for the family, one for relatives and friends, and the remaining portion is distributed among the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities, and enjoy a hearty meal,” Imam Khan said.

He said Eid emphasises the spirit of charity and giving. Many Muslims use this occasion to extend a helping hand to those in need, by donating money, clothes, and food to charitable organisations. This act of generosity is intended to ensure that the less fortunate members of society could also celebrate and experience the joy of Eid.

In recent years, technol-

ogy and social media have played a significant role in connecting Muslims worldwide during Eid-ul-Adha. Families and friends who are unable to be physically present for the festivities can now share their well wishes and experiences through virtual platforms, thereby making the celebration even more inclusive and global.

inclusion.

On Tuesday, an outreach to Plaisance was held in good faith to ensure matters affecting residents and vendors were heard and assistance provided; however, the opposition attempted to stop such an outreach.

The actions of the opposition beg the question, “Does APNU/AFC have

the interest of Guyanese at heart?”

The action of the opposition proves they have no interest in allowing citizens a fair chance at support from the government. It paints a bad image, to be purposely trying to stop vendors from getting much-needed aid.

I’ll leave you with

these few questions to ask yourself. Does PNC support progress?

“Why would the opposition leader want to impede an opportunity for residents and vendors of Plaisance to be placed in a position to earn and have their concerns addressed?”

Yours sincerely, Ryan Newton

Beef being chopped and parceled off for distribution at the CIOG

Deputy CIOG President Goolzar Namdar

Class survival in Guyana after 1974

MR Hamilton Green on Wednesday called me on the phone in relation to the latest installment in this newspaper in my series on the political life of the Mulatto/Creole Class (CMC).

In that column, I looked at the rift between Prime Minister Forbes Burnham and the MCC in which Burnham sought to diminish their power, and he successfully did.

Mr Green asked me to account for Burnham’s embrace of two members of the MCC – Hubert Jack and Shridath Ramphal. That needs no elongated explanation. Mr Ramphal was never interested in politics.

Mr Burnham knew that. In relation to Jack, Mr Burnham had no objection to retaining members of the MCC once they showed loyalty to him. Mr Jack did, and

others too like the deputy head of the United Force, Randolph Cheeks, who defected to Burnham and became Minister of Local Government, which at the time was the least important ministry.

By 1972, eight years after independence, the MCC was no longer interested in a relationship with Mr Burnham.

They felt that Burnham had strayed too far from the ideology and goals of the MCC’s party, the National Democratic Party of Sir John Carter. In fact, the first signal Burnham made to the MCC was the assignment out of the country of Sir John to be the ambassador to the US.

By 1974, two sections of the MCC began to plot against Burnham. One was the class itself, and the other was the intellectual appendage

of the MCC – the intellectual middle class. The intellectuals formed a group called Ratoon, then, formed another entity named Movement Against Oppression.

The MCC financed another party which consisted of MCC Christian Indians – The Liberator Party. The Catholic Church birthed the Guyana Human Rights Association which consisted of pure Portuguese and Mulatto personalities and Christian Indians, especially from the Catholic Church.

Some middle-class Indians from the Creole stratum formed a group named the Guyana Anti-Discrimination Movement headed by a Portuguese gentleman named Ramon Gaskin.

After 1976, with Burnham’s declaration of the paramountcy of the

party, the MCC was in relentless confrontation with the Burnham government, but in what was a classic example of class elitism, ethnic aloofness and purist racism, none of these middle class formations sought an alliance with the PPP that was seen as too working-class oriented and non-Christian.

In fact, it can be said that Burnham survived the turmoil of the 1970s because none of the MCC-related organisations wanted to team up with the PPP. See Dr Cheddi Jagan’s article in the PPP’s journal “Thunder,” of how he felt about these MCC-created middle-class outfits. The issue is July-December 1971.

Why the PPP was shunned was because of the numbers game that created paranoia in the MCC the first day it formed the National Democratic Party. It knew it did not have the numbers and was forced to align with the PNC.

In the 1970s, the MCC

vowed it would not repeat that mistake and thus avoided any alliance with the colossal mass-based party of Dr. Jagan, whose supporters numbered almost half the country.

The MCC’s fear of the PPP’s numbers cost Walter Rodney his life. The rest of this column is devoted to the politics of the WPA after it was created by the MCC.

When the WPA was formed, one of its constituents, the Working People’s Vanguard Party, headed by Mr. Brindley Benn, father of the current Home Affairs Minister, pulled out, chastising the other WPA constituents as being a petty bourgeoisie group.

Indeed he was right, but his label of petty bourgeoisie was misleading. The WPA was essentially a middle-class formation funded by the non-Indian petty bourgeoisie.

The MCC pinned its hopes on regaining power it lost by bankrolling the WPA. The WPA’s reach into middle-class Guyana was fantastic. A

good example was when one of the WPA leaders was being sought by the police, he was eventually found living in a suite in the foreign-owned Pegasus Hotel.

The WPA was an atavistic return to its pristine self- the League of Coloured People. The WPA harboured deep resentment of the PPP out of fear that it could not survive the numbers of the PPP; thus, the PPP will take power when Burnham fell in 1979 which was the planned date.

The planned revolt in 1979 was to overthrow Burnham and the WPA would take power with Rodney replacing Burnham. The PPP was completely shut out of the details which were only revealed last year by a newspaper letter by Mr. Ralph Ramkarran. After 1979, the MCC retreated into its shell.

Burnham survived and was accused of involvement in Rodney’s assassination. Next, I will look at the MCC’s physiology in 21st century Guyana.

CARICOM, climate change and world water woes

WORLD water sources have long been growing smaller, but with leaders and governments more concerned about issues like war and peace, politics and economics, concerns about growing water scarcity were limited to futuristic contemplations like the World Water War envisaged in ‘Mad Max Beyond The Thunderdome’, the 1985 Box Office Australian hit starring Mel Gibson and Grace Jones and with a theme song by Tina Turner.

In the movie, the fight was in a medieval ‘Thunderdome’ in which the winner won all the water, but in the real-life scenario today while the wars are for territory, they’re also for control of natural resources, from oil to water.

CARIBBEAN

The state of the world water crisis is well-known in developing nations globally and small island states and territories within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), affected from time immemorial by annual droughts and hurricanes, tropical storms and troughs, landslides, even volcano eruptions.

In reality, this region has been affected by and people have been forced to adapt hopelessly to Climate Change long before it became a fad, from Hurricanes David and Allen (1980s) to Hurricane Gilbert (1990s) and right up to the Montserrat volcano eruption (2003) – all in a region knowing only two seasons: Sun and Rain.

Decades later, after devastating the helpless South, climate change is playing new havoc in the North, with forest fires and heat waves baking people to death and running rivers dry, alongside floods down-under in Australia and New Zealand and new environmental crises that started since the discovery of the El Nino and La Nina weather phenomena that confronted The Americas in the last decade of the last century.

The water crisis hit home in America recently when the USA and Canada had to battle new challenges from forest fires to droughts, forcing Montana to depend on melted snow to meet water needs lower-down.

But the most telling example was the Biden administration’s recent decision to try to slow the flow of the Colorado River (already at catastrophic levels) resulting in enforced quotas of smaller intakes by California and at least three other US states.

CLIMATE CHANGE

But The Colorado move is just a pint-sized example of the fluidity of the world’s actual water woes – and the sheer cost of recovering from new climate change-related weather events, as in 2022, extreme weather events cost the United States (alone) $175.2 billion in damage.

A recent Texas A&M University study published by Reuters in its Sustainable Switch section confirmed that “climate change was a critical factor in reducing global reservoir efficiency, but rising water demand

also played a role.”

It also found that even if temperatures stop rising, increasing demand and new construction are likely to continue, thus prolonging the problem.

THE SOUTH

The study found the decline in storage volumes was concentrated in the global South (especially Africa and South America), where water demand increased rapidly and new reservoirs didn't fill up as quickly as expected.

In Honduras, authorities indicated a will to cut electricity supplies due to the impact of a drought that’s hit output from hydroelectric dams in the Central American country, with blackouts to last for as much as three hours, every three to four days.

The Honduras move follows a series of blackouts across some cities and towns that have, in recent weeks, sparked protests and highway blockades.

CHINA

On the other side of the world, China is planning an ambitious new water infrastructure project to mitigate the impact of climate change, with experts warning more river diversions may be costly.

At the end of May, Chinese officials unveiled plans to build a national water network of new canals, reservoirs and storage facilities to boost irrigation and cut the risk of floods and droughts by unblocking the major arteries of the river system by 2035, to boost evening-out water-supply distribution.

But China is also putting its

PNC’s internal troubles increase

- longstanding member says being forced out

FORMER City Hall councillor and longstanding People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) member, Heston Bostwick, on Thursday, through multiple Facebook posts, revealed that he is being forced out of the party by other members.

Since the Local Government Elections (LGEs) concluded, there have been speculations that the party is crumbling internally.

It has even been alleged that APNU leader, Aubrey Norton, is singlehandedly choosing the mayors and deputy mayors for the municipality of Linden and Georgetown, instead of allowing the other party members to vote.

In a Facebook video, Bostwick expressed grave disappointment that despite being a member of the PNC/R since 1979, his membership is being rejected by his fellow com -

rades who want him out of the party.

He said: “I was reliably informed that efforts are being made to put me out of the PNC/R,” adding that he plans on doing some investigation on the matter and will make a bold decision to openly exit the PNC/R after the absolute confirmation.

“My choice will be publicly known and I know it will be regretful to everyone, but bear in mind, I am being forced to do this...there are persons within the very party [are] making serious efforts to opt me out of the party for reasons only they, themselves know.”

Hinting at the rumors that Norton is choosing the candidates in an effort to avoid any “buy out” of PNC/R councillors, Bostwick said that if there were allegations levelled against him, the most logical way to handle it was to confront him and let natural

money where its mouth is and investing in water with rivers of ready resources, including cash.

Total investment in fixed water assets exceeded 1.1 trillion yuan ($154 Billion) in 2022, up 44 per cent compared with 2021; and rose 15.6 per cent to 407 Billion yuan in the first quarter of 2023, with officials promising even more funding.

RESILIENCE

Adaptation and resilience are the new advocate buzzwords and just as the Caribbean played a leading role in getting the North to eventually agree to strive for a 2015 global carbon emissions cap, it’s again being called upon to lead the way with both climate change and water.

Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

(UNFCCC), Simon Stiell, feels the region can again take the global lead on the climate change by offering “a third way” for North and South to agree on delivery and action on climate financing promises.

The former Grenada Minister for Climate Resilience and the Environment told delegates attending the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) last week that the Caribbean is uniquely placed to bridge solutions at global levels and chart a path for pioneering innovative finance approaches on climate change.

Noting that developing nations need nearly US$6 trillion to meet their 2050 climate commitments, Stiell says Caribbean nations can go to the upcoming 28th Conference of

Parties to the UNFCCC (COP 28) in Dubai with the same verve of the 2015 COP in Paris, where they played a lead role in influencing the Climate Change Agreement for the 1.5 Decree Celsius target.

Delivering the feature address at the 2023 William Demas Memorial Lecture on the sidelines of the CDB’s AGM in Saint Lucia, Stiell said the Caribbean delivered on the 1.5 Degree cap deal eight years ago “despite a litany of hurdles” –and can do it again.

But, to what extent is the Region and the rest of the South ready and able to influence the North to translate their promises of climate finance into language that spells out delivery times and mechanisms?

justice take its course, instead of forcing him out of the party.

Additionally, Bostwick did not stop there but went on to make another post addressing the public’s concerns about him leaving the party.

He related: “I thank everyone for their concerns, however, I receive a welcome call and I will be responding to that call and I will make my final decision to burn my membership in public that everyone can understand that I am hurt and I quit.”

Bostwick went on to say that even though he is fond of the party, there is deep hatred for him by his fellow comrades.

According to Bostwick: “I had [loved] my party but I am not loved by many in the party, so I will soon be saying goodbye to the party and no one can change my decision when I finally make such. I was betrayed.”

Guyana advances talks with stakeholders on EU co-operation agreement

MINISTER of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, and a team from the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) and other local stakeholders attended the First Joint Monitoring and Review Committee (JMRC) meeting in

Brussels, Belgium. Guyana and the European Union (EU) entered into a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) under the EU Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) in 2012.

The primary objec-

tives of the VPA are reducing forest illegality, improving forest governance, transparency, forest trade, and greater inclusion of forest and other stakeholders in policy making.

The VPA was ratified by both Guyana and the EU in 2023

and entered legally into force on June 1, 2023. Prior to June 1, 2023, a Pre-Joint Monitoring and Review Committee (Pre-JMRC) was established to guide the initial implementation of the Guyana-EU FLEGT VPA in accordance with an agreed work plan.

This Pre-JMRC has now transitioned to the JMRC upon the Guyana- EU FLEGT VPA coming into force.

The main functions of the JMRC include: Conducting an independent assessment of the Guyana Timber Legality Assurance System (GTLAS), developing and adopting an implementation schedule, establishing a monitoring and evaluation framework

to track the progress of the VPA in Guyana, making recommendations to help attain

the agreement’s objectives among others. (Ministry of Natural Resources)

Director of prisons urges officers to always be vigilant

PRISON officers stationed at the Timehri and Mazaruni prisons were urged to always be vigilant while on duty.

This call was made by Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, at his quarterly muster and general inspection of officers at both locations on Wednesday at Timehri and on Thursday at Mazaruni.

“To be vigilant you must be fearless, observant, and confident. There must never be any doubt that you are observing, analyzing and ready to protect those under your watch,” the Prisons Director said.

Elliot told the officers that they should be confident and know exactly what role they are filling in the line of

duty.

“You are ultimately responsible for safety, security, and supervision of inmates that are under your care,” Elliot stressed.

Meanwhile, quarterly muster is slated for the Prison headquarters, and at the Georgetown and Lusignan prisons over the next week.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, and a team from the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) and other local stakeholders attended the First Joint Monitoring and Review Committee (JMRC) meeting in Brussels, Belgium

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot

Billions of dollars to be invested in infrastructure during final half of 2023

By Cindy Parkinson

IN line with the government’s plan for development, the Ministry of Public Works continues to work assiduously to ensure that infrastructural projects are done in all ten administrative regions.

The subject minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, recently told the Guyana Chronicle that his ministry, and the Government of Guyana, continue to work diligently to improve and enhance the lives of all Guyanese.

According to him, in the first half of 2023, his ministry is “miles ahead” of what was promised in the manifesto.

“In the first half of 2023, we have been able to get a lot of work done in the communities across Guyana, by ensuring that we provide these communities with proper roads, streets and bridges. Accelerated works were done on some of the major projects, such as the Ogle/Eccles roads and we were able to get work started on the Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau on the Railway Embankment.

“We were also able to get the project procurement process moving on the Grove to Timehri upgrade, and we have received the approval of the Islamic Development Bank

of the outlook of Guyana, Minister Edghill said that Guyanese should look forward to a lot more development within their communities and the country for the remaining six months.

“Guyanese should expect more investments in our road network. We are getting ready to build 300 roads on the East Coast of Demerara, another 100 on the East Bank of Demerara and in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) we will be doing another 300,” he said before adding, “In Region One, we have an allocation for over a billion dollars' worth of work, which includes all the community roads in the Matarkai sub-districts of Port

According to the minister, the residents of Region seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) should also expect major work on the region’s infrastructure.

“We have an allocation for over a billion dollars to do infrastructural development there in Region Seven, and we will be engaging the residents of Bartica soon,” he said.

Finally, Minister Edghill noted that his ministry is overseeing the completion of the work at the ferry stellings at Port Kaituma, Mabaruma, Leguan, Kingston and Bartica, which, according to him, “has been a sloth that we inherited from the opposition.”

(IDB) for the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. I am also pleased to report that we were able to move on getting proprietary work for the procuring of a contractor for the Wismar-Linden Bridge and several other projects that have been completed and are still ongoing, and I can also say that all of our sea defence programmes across the country are in the execution stage,” he said.

While the significant infrastructural developments have contributed to the enhancement

Kaituma, Matthews Ridge and Mabaruma. We will be working on several roads in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) as well.”

Along with that, the minister informed this publication that the residents of Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) should also expect significant infrastructure projects, with an allocation of over $1.6 billion.

He also said that more than 40 new roads will be built in the area.

He informed that the government of the day was “able to get it restarted, and it will be heavily advanced upon completion.”

Minister Edghill also mentioned that the Morawhanna ferry stelling in the North West District, will soon be completed to facilitate the mooring of the MV MA Lisha, which he said will play a critical role in enhancing transportation, trade, and tourism between Georgetown and Region One.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, interacts with a worker while visiting one of the ongoing road projects

Completed roads in one of the new housing schemes

Guyana’s foreign, economic diplomacy reaches new heights

- President Ali receives invitations for state visits from over 50 countries; scheduled for visit to China next month

WITH the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government having restored Guyana’s position as a leader on the world stage, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali is currently facing invitations for state visits from over 50 countries, and will be making a trip to China next month to strengthen bilateral relations with the Asian nation.

This was shared by the President on Thursday in a video message released on his official social media page, where he justified how his many international engagements have been bearing fruits of development for Guyana over the last three years.

“For the month of July, I received more than 50 direct requests from Heads of Governments around the

world. We're going on our official state visit to China. These are the things we do to bring results for the country,” the President said He added: “We have proposals coming from France, French Guiana. These are all proposals that come directly from our international engagements, directly from pushing and

promoting Guyana and what we have to offer. We are on the right trajectory.”

According to the Head of State, since assuming office, he has had the honour of engaging with more than 60 leaders from across the world, more than 50 Chief Executive Officers from major multinationals, engaged with international

organisations, and asked to give the keynote addresses at more than 150 events.

"I could not have done all of those [as it was not] humanly impossible. But I'm giving you these figures so you understand and what esteem our country is held with today,” Dr. Ali said.

He went on to say: “My International agenda has been a very active one, but with a difference, we have been focusing on economic diplomacy, bilateral relationships to ensure that Guyana’s position on many global issues is understood and that the support for Guyana is overwhelming.

"As could have been seen from the vote for us in the United Nations Security Council. The highest vote, unanimous, just one abstention, not many countries can boast of this. That is because

of the level of respect and regard that the international Community has for us.”

Earlier this month, Guyana was elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nation’s Security Council for the period 2024 – 2025. However, this was just the pinnacle in Guyana’s rise on the international stage that has been ongoing over the past three years.

According to Dr. Ali, his government has an agenda to place Guyana in global leadership on food, security, energy, security, and climate security. However, this requires a strong position on the international stage, with bilateral and multilateral engagements that build support for Guyana.

As such, the President has been observably active in engaging with the inter-

national community, but he noted his disappointment that anyone would see this as anything less than a plus for Guyana.

“So, those engagements take time, we have been able to establish numerous bilateral and multilateral relationships and contacts. We've been able to enhance our image and where we were taken off of the agenda. We had lost our place on the global agenda in terms of forests of climate change. We are now once again leading this globally. Only recently at the Commonwealth Heads of Government, everyone was high in praise for Guyana’s leadership on climate change [through] the Low Carbon Development Strategy on forest,” the President said.

A story of resilience, rehabilitation

- Garfield Wilson reflects on his journey after a simple headache turned to paralysis

By Naomi Parris

WHILE at work, Garfield Wilson developed a severe headache that he assumed would pass, but it ultimately left him quadriplegic for several years.

Quadriplegia is a symptom of paralysis that affects all of a person’s limbs and body from the neck down. The most common cause of quadriplegia is an injury to the spinal cord in your neck, but it can also happen with medical conditions.

While on duty in 2018, Wilson, a civilian worker at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), passed out and was later found to have Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), an uncommon condition in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves.

“It started as a headache, just a headache around 12 o’clock midday and I fell down. After I fell down, I got up and soak my head. I sat down. I couldn’t move anything,” Wilson recalled in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

That evening, Wilson went to bed and assumed that a little rest would have him refreshed for the next day. However, when he woke the following morning, he could not move on his own and was

completely paralyzed from the neck down.

“We went to GDF medical centre; they treated me for dehydration, spent the day, same thing happened. So, the next day my mom decided to take me back and they referred me right away to the public hospital; by the time the doctor could have come and check on me I was completely paralyzed.”

Wilson spent ten days in the hospital and after several tests, he was informed of his rare condition.

It was certainly not something he had prepared for.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), GBS can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adult males. The syndrome can affect the nerves that control muscle movement as well as those that transmit pain, temperature and touch sensations.

Although Wilson was unable to move his body, he was in immense pain.

“The pain was so terrible it took me like a year before I could have stand up back,” he said.

THERAPY

After being confined to a bed for almost a year, Wilson began therapy at Palm’s Rehabilitation Services. There

he was assigned to specialists who currently work with him as he seeks to regain full mobility and reclaim his life.

“I would advise anyone

from there.”

While Wilson is now able to walk on his own, he still undergoes regular hydrotherapy, a form of psychical therapy

Sparman and Nikita Cumberbatch have developed a goal-oriented plan to ensure that he becomes the best version of himself psychically and mentally.

Sparman in a brief interview with this publication, explained that goal-oriented plans are introduced to many patients who require a psychical therapy. In Wilson’s case, this was done to meet his needs.

“We would usually use the resistance of the water, also the buoyance, meaning its ability to float to alleviate pressure on your joints and also basically assist you with doing the movements,” she said adding: “We do a range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, stretches and also relaxation. Once the patient is able to make all those goals set out by himself and the therapist and we see that okay.”

Meanwhile, Cumberbatch further explained how hydrotherapy can assist persons like Wilson, who would have lost mobility.

that water provides.”

She noted that hydrotherapy, coupled with a goal-oriented plan, sees many patients recording successful recoveries.

“When doing physical therapy, we are very goal-oriented We have special tools we use to measure progress; so from the time the person comes we do an initial assessment and we do periodical checks to see where the person is and sometimes it’s not major changes but we look at each and every small change, because small changes can move on to something big; one flicker of a muscle is going to turn into a big movement. We encourage small movements and we move on to the bigger items.”

Wilson attributed his success thus far to the specialists who have been working closely with him and his family.

“My determination paid a big role in the level I was to where I am now, I had to make up my mind to get where I am at the moment.”

who is starting a therapy. Don’t think about the past, don’t think about what happened, think about the betterment and where you can go

that uses water to treat a variety of symptoms.

GOAL- ORIENTED

Wilson, along with his physiotherapists Kimberly

“With hydrotherapy it is not targetted to or only neurological conditions. People suffering from osteoporosis or other muscular, skeletal conditions benefit from the buoyance and weightlessness

He added, “My biggest support was my mom and sister. I grew up without a father and it is just my mom and sister I have, without them I wouldn’t be here, they were the ones who supported me.”

Garfield Wilson with his mother and sister during his challenging times

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

Laluni residents welcome infrastructural enhancements

- anticipate a speedy completion of the road works underway in the community

announced that some $50 million in contracts will be awarded for the rehabilitation of the road.

Those works will be done in two phases and will see members of the community being employed during the second phase.

is being constructed given the state of the main access road.

For most farmers in the community the journey from their farms to markets are gruelling because of the “deep potholes and break up parts” of the road.

with her husband owns and operates a citrus farm.

According to the woman, on a daily, they would harvest several pales of cherries and their biggest challenge is transporting their produce to the market.

Meanwhile, Zita Daniels a 70-year-old citrus farmer who still tills the soil, said that the deplorable state of the road remains a concern, so the timely completion of the ongoing road works would be greatly appreciated.

By Naomi Parris

RESIDENTS of Laluni, a small farming community along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, are anticipating the completion of the main access road, which will significantly enhance their ability to transport goods and commute easier.

During an interview with the Guyana Chroni-

(CDC), Julian Mohabir said that the first phase of the road construction project, which includes the rehabilitation of a bridge and other preparatory works, has been completed.

“They do some work on the first half of the road and very soon the other half will be completed and then they will do the final stage on the road,” Mohabir related.

Once the road is completed, farmers in the community are expected to see a boost in their profits, as the improved infrastructure will allow them to better transport their goods from the farms to markets.

“We know the road cost a lot of money, so it’s taking some time to get it fixed but when fixed it will be A-one,” Mohabir said.

However, some residents have expressed concerns about speedy completion. One resident, who spoke under anonymity said she believes that engineers can work at a faster pace.

While she welcomed the upgrades to the community’s infrastructure, she said it has been long overdue and residents are anxious to see promises that were made to them fulfilled.

“The road is the issue we have in here right now. We are farmers and it’s hard to carry out our produce. Once the road is fixed, that would be good,” Joan Bhagwandin told this publication.

Bhagwandin along

Daniels usually sells

her produce to vendors in the community, who would travel along the Soesdyke highway or to the capital city, Georgetown to find market for the produce.

In the past, the tobacco company, Demerara Tobacco Co. Limited (Demtoco), which had operated in the community for several years, would maintain the road but these works ceased when the company dissolved its operations in the 1980s.

In September 2022, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali visited the community and

This publication spoke to several farmers who were happy that the road

cle, Laluni’s community development chairman

CDC Chairman, Julian Mohabir

A section of Laluni’s main access road (Samuel Maughn and Japheth Savoury photos)

Works have commenced on some sections of the road and the construction of a bridge leading to the community has been completed

Citrus farmer, Zita Daniels

Fun-filled Linden Riverfront Festival begins today

OVER the next few days, Linden is expected to be transformed into an entertainment hotspot for every member of the family.

The Riverfront Festival was formulated to promote the development of the riverfront during an unforgettable four-day display which also celebrates the charming riverfront and the township.

The festival ends on July 3, 2023.

According to posts on the Riverfront Festival’s Facebook page, members of the public are being urged to immerse themselves in a blend of riverfront experiences, local culture, and about a dozen thrilling activities.

The events include a Market Day on July 1 at Burnham Drive, Wismar, where

persons can discover unique local crafts, amazing street food, and wrap themselves in the rich tapestry of Linden's thriving culture.

There will also be a bonfire at Speightland Beach, and a Regatta/ Food Fair and

Family Day on July 3rd at the Watooka Guest House, where those in attendance can experience the best of Caribbean cuisine, and sporting events for the family. These events include mini golf, kayak, jet sky and speed boat races,

Director of the Riverfront Festival Committee, Samuel Wright, said that the festival began around eight years ago, where items were exhibited at the riverfront.

Each of the events, according to Wright, has its own price for entry and location.

More information on this festival, can be found on the festival’s Facebook page, where all scheduled events are available for public view.

Moreover, they encourage persons to go and experience the magic of the Linden Riverfront Festival where the river meets the community, and vibrant traditions merge with the tranquil beauty of the Demerara River.

This event is being sponsored by the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, The Guyana Tourism Authority, BOSAI Minerals, BPI Guyana, Sterling Products, Guy Oil, Jermaine and Sons, and Banks DIH Limited.

Sheryl Lee Ralph to receive Hollywood Walk of Fame star

THE accolades just keep coming for Sheryl Lee Ralph.

The American-born actress, who has Jamaican heritage, learnt, on Monday, that she is among a new group of entertainment professionals selected to receive stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Ralph, who was on a flight from Jamaica to New York when she received the news, told the Jamaica Observer that she was surprised by the announcement made by Ellen K, chair of the Walk of Fame Selection Panel.

"I can't believe it," she said on being contacted shortly after her flight landed.

"This reminds me of what my grandmother used say, 'What is fi yuh, cyaan be un-fi yuh'," added Ralph, her reference to the Jamaican proverb which translates: What is meant to be yours, will be yours.

Ralph, whose late mother Ivy was one of Jamaica's pi-

oneer fashion designers, has had reason to use the proverb since last September when, at age 66, she won the Emmy Award for best supporting actress in a comedy series for her role as kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard in Abbott Elementary.

The award was her first-ever Emmy nomination in a stage and film career

stretching from the early 1970s when she starred in the American crime comedy film, A Piece of the Action, directed by Sidney Poitier. The following month Ralph was invested with the Order of Jamaica, the nation's fifth-highest honour, for her sterling contribution to the

Linden Riverfront Festival 2023 will include several family-oriented events for the long weekend ahead

Sheryl Lee Ralph poses in the press room with her Emmy on Monday, September 12, 2022, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo: AP)

Miss Jamzone delegates participate in ‘Sleepy’ marketing challenge

AS part of this year's Miss Jamzone pageant experience, the nine semi-finalists participated in a fun challenge to test their marketability.

According to the pageant organisers, the challenge sought to promote the importance of menstrual hygiene and showcase Sleepy’s high quality and extensive line of pads and liners.

The challenge is a collaborative effort between the Miss Jamzone Committee and Sleepy Products, which aims to engage the delegates in a creative and fun way to promote their brand.

The delegates participated in a fun photoshoot to showcase the products, which has since been posted to the @Missjamzonepageant page on Instagram and the Jamzone International page

on Facebook.

In a press release, the organisers explained that the public is solely responsible for the outcome of this competition, since their votes will ultimately choose the winner. The delegate with the most votes will not only win a radio advertisement and television commercial, but also full sponsorship from Sleepy, for their Miss Jamzone journey.

Voting began at noon on Monday and concluded on Thursday at 18:00 hours.

The release added that Sleepy is the leading brand of baby diapers in Guyana, and is now looking to take over the feminine care market locally.

Manager Rozana Chand in commenting on the products said: “Sleepy Sanitary Napkins and Daily Liners has always prioritised providing

women with the ultimate comfort and care. Made with plant-based materials (cotton and bamboo fibers), our sanitary napkins and daily liners offer an unparalleled combination of protection and softness, ensuring every woman can face her day with confidence, even during that time of the month. We offer an extensive range of products that cater to every woman's unique needs and preferences. Our line-up includes the Natural Soft, the Natural Ultra-Sensitive, The Natural, The Ecologic, and the Black Sanitary Napkins and Daily Liners all designed with superior quality materials for exceptional protection and comfort. The variety of our product range reflects the diversity of the women we serve. Whether it's the softness of our Natural Soft

range, the hypoallergenic features of our Natural Ultra-Sensitive, the eco-friendly attributes of The Ecologic, or the bold confidence of our Black Sanitary Napkins and Daily liners, we have something for everyone.”

Touching on the competition itself, Chand, according to the press release said: “Sleepy is incredibly excited to be a part of Jamzone 2023.

This partnership represents a meeting of two worlds - the celebration of music and culture, and the commitment to support women in their daily lives. It's an opportunity to connect with our community and share our mission of empowering women, one napkin at a time.”

In the lead up to this year's pageant, there will be a series of events and other fun

challenges that the delegates will be required participate in, it added.

The delegates will strut their stuff and vie for the Miss Jamzone 2023 crown during the Magnum Xplosion Beach Jam which is slated for August 27 at Splashmin’s Resort on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

Madonna postpones tour after intensive care stay

MADONNA has postponed her world tour after being taken to a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU) with a serious bacterial infection.

According to her manager, the global popstar's infection was "serious" and led to "a several day stay in the ICU". He added a full recovery is expected.

In a statement, Guy Oseary said Madonna's health is improving, but she is still under medical care.

Madonna, 64, was ex-

pected to launch her 84date tour next month.

She is believed to be receiving treatment at a hospital in New York City, US media reports.

The pop icon aimed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of her breakout single, Holiday, by embarking on her first ever greatest hits tour.

Dubbed the Celebration Tour, this would be the singer's return to arenas and stadiums after her experimental, theatre-based

Madame X shows in 2019 and 2020.

Some of those performances were called off due to the star's knee and hip injuries.

"Sorry I had to cancel tonight," the star wrote on Instagram after cancelling a 2020 performance in Lisbon, "but I must listen to my body and rest!"

Madonna's latest tour was due to start in Vancouver, Canada, on July 15 and end on January 30 in Mexico City.

But the singer-songwriter's manager said Madonna developed a "serious bacterial infection" on Saturday June 24 and all commitments would need to be paused as a result.

She was due to begin the UK and Europe portion of her tour on October 14, scheduled to begin and end at London's O2 Arena.

In announcing the tour back in January, she told fans: "I am excited to explore as many songs as possible in hope to give my fans the show they have been waiting for."

Madonna's greatest hits span several decades - including Into The Groove

(1985), Like A Prayer (1989), to Vogue (1990) and Hung Up (2005) to name a few.

It is likely that Madonna - who is intensely private about health matters - was in the final stages of a rehearsal regime in preparation for the tour.

In 2009, she was awarded a Guinness World Record for the highest-grossing music tour by a female artiste after completing her Sticky & Sweet Tour.

American magazine Forbes lists her as the 45th richest self-made woman in the US with an estimated wealth of $580m

(£460m) and says she has earned an estimated $1.2bn from tours.

She has six children.

Last week, she posted to her 18.9m Instagram followers to congratulate her twin 10-year-old daughters for completing elementary school.

Madonna Louise Ciccone grew up in the city of Detroit, Michigan. In 1978, she moved to New York to pursue a career in dance and music.

Earlier this year, her older brother Anthony Ciccone died aged 66 after struggling with alcoholism and homelessness.

Sheryl Lee Ralph to receive...

From page 16

international film industry.

In February this year international attention was again focused on Ralph as she performed Lift Every Voice And Sing at the NFL Super Bowl finals in the United States.

The song, which was used as a rallying cry during the US civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, is often referred to as the "black national anthem".

In Monday's announcement, the selection panel said the honorees were chosen from among hundreds of nominations at a meeting held on June 16, 2023 and ratified by the Hollywood Chamber's board of directors on June 21, 2023.

"The selection committee, which is made up of

fellow Walk of Famers, carefully hand-picks a group of honorees each year that represent various genres of the entertainment world," a release quotes Ellen K.

"The committee did an amazing job choosing these very talented people. We can't wait to see each honoree's reaction as they realise that they are becoming a part of Hollywood's history with the unveiling of their star on the world's most famous walkway," Ellen K added.

Ralph is included in the television category of honorees who are now known as the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2024. Her compatriots in that category are Ken Jeong, Eugene Levy, Mario Lopez, Jim Nantz, Michael Schur, Kerry Washington, and Raúl De Molina and Lili Estefan, co-hosts of the

television show El Gordo y La Flaca.

The motion pictures category comprises Chadwick Boseman (posthumous), Kevin Feige, Gal Gadot, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Chris Meledandri, Chris Pine, Christina Ricci, and Michelle Yeoh.

In the category recognising musical recordings are Glen Ballard, Toni Braxton, Def Leppard, Charles Fox, Sammy Hagar, Brandy Norwood, Darius Rucker, Gwen Stefani, and Andre "Dr Dre" Young.

Other honorees are Jane Krakowski and Otis Redding (posthumous) in the category live theatre/live performance; Angie Martinez, radio; and Billie Jean King and Carl Weathers in the sports entertainment category. (Jamaica Observer)

Madonna

Taylor Swift, Ke Huy Quan, Austin Butler join Hollywood's film academy

POP singer and songwriter, Taylor Swift, "Elvis" star Austin Butler and best supporting actor winner Ke Huy Quan were among more than 300 people selected to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the group that awards the Oscars.

Swift, 33, was invited to join the academy's music branch after writing songs for the soundtracks of the 2022 movie "Where the Crawdads Sing" and the 2019 film adaptation of the musical "Cats."

Quan, 51, won the supporting actor trophy this year for his role in best picture winner "Everything Everywhere All at Once." His Oscar-nominated co-star Stephanie Hsu, 32, also was select-

ed to join the academy, along with the movie's directors, 35-year-old Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, 36 - known as "the Daniels."

Butler, 31, was nominated for an Oscar this year for his portrayal of Elvis Presley.

The academy, which has more than 10,000 members in total, has taken steps to diversify its membership since the #OscarsSoWhite outcry in 2015.

The group said 40 per cent of the new members identified as women, 34 per cent belonged to underrepresented ethnic or racial communities, and 52 per cent were from 50 countries and territories outside the United States. (Reuters)

Ford hangs up his

'Indiana Jones' hat in 'Dial of Destiny'

HARRISON Ford is bidding farewell to one of his most famous roles with new film "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," which heads to theaters today.

The 80-year-old Ford, who plays the adventurous Nazi-punching archaeologist, confirmed to Reuters that he will not be returning for more relic-related escapades.

"I'm saying goodbye to a brilliant opportunity to bring joy to people," Ford said in an interview, "but I wanted that last iteration of the series to be about character as much as anything."

The film starts with a digitally de-aged Ford, created with help from artificial intelligence, fighting Nazis to secure one half of classical inventor Archimedes' dial of

destiny.

While Ford has praised his youthful appearance in the film, he told Reuters he does not think a full-length movie with his younger image would be produced.

"I can't imagine that that will happen," he said.

"I think there are barriers to it both legally and that it just ain't going to work," he said. "You've got to be on a set with people saying, you know, 'Why don't we try this? Do this, do that, do the other thing."

For the remainder of "Dial of Destiny," the older Jones pursues the other half of the dial with help from goddaughter Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) and her sidekick, Teddy (Ethan Isidore). (Reuters)

Harrison

Cast member Harrison Ford attends the U.S. Premiere of Lucas film’s “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, U.S., on June 14, 2023 (REUTERS/Mike Blake/File Photo)

Taylor Swift attends the 65th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, U.S., on February 5, 2023 (REUTERS/David Swanson/File Photo)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday June 30, 2023)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Joe Root-118*

(2) Usman Khawaja-141

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who took most wickets for England in the first Ashes

Test of the current series?

(2) Which Australian took most wickets?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

RACING TIPS

ENGLISH

DONCASTER

16:00 hrs Ecclesiastical

IRISH RACING TIPS

CURRAGH

12:00 hrs My Mate Alfie

12:35 hrs Getula

13:05 hrs Not Even Close

13:40 hrs Alma Libre

14:15 hrs Kodiac Prince

14:50 hrs The Franchise

10:55

11:30 hrs Hostelry

12:05 hrs Awtaar

NEWCASTLE

11:55 hrs Luna Magic

12:30 hrs Little Muddy

13:00 hrs Mondammej

13:35 hrs Nashwa

14:10 hrs Love Your Work

14:45 hrs Chelsea Square

15:20 hrs Global Tycoon

15:52 hrs Bomb Squad

CHESTER

12:40 hrs Metabolt

13:15 hrs Quick Away

13:50 hrs Mini Kakushi

14:25 hrs Tajalat

15:00 hrs Market Value

15:30 hrs Balance Play

15:25 hrs Saturn

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

BELMONT Race 1 Hi'iaka

Race 2 Copper Chalice Race 3 Yes And Yes

Race 4 Super Duper Fĺy Race 5 Sacred Ryme Race 6 Our Country Race 7 Constitutionallawyer

CANADIAN RACING TIPS

WOODBINE Race 1 Taybo

Race 2 Box Score

Race 3 Kid Forester

Race 4 Reservenotattained

Race 5 Reload's Rascal Race 6 Honey Won't Race 7 Above Par

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

FAIRVIEW

08:25 hrs Hawk Circle 09:00 hrs Speed Machine 09:35 hrs Cliff Top 10:10 hrs Ekoria 10:45 hrs Bornemourh

Williams' 142 fashions tight victory for Zimbabwe

…Prajapati ton in vain for Oman as hosts take another step towards the ODI World Cup

By Madushka Balasuriya

A valiant Oman fell achingly short of the finish line, as Sean Williams' 142 trumped Kashyap Prajapati's 103the first by an Oman batter against an ICC full member - to help Zimbabwe secure a narrow yet crucial 14-run win to kick-off the Super Six stage of the Men's World Cup Qualifier.

Williams' masterful innings was aided by cameos from Sikandar Raza and Luke Jongwe, along with several other useful contributions right throughout the order. Then with the ball, Tendai Chatara and Blessing Muzarabani picked up three apiece, and Richard Ngarava grabbed a pair to stall Oman's charge.

(Scores: Zimbabwe 332 for 7 (Williams 142, Jongwe 43*, Raza 42, Butt 4-79) beat Oman 318 for 9 (Prajapati 103, Ayaan 47, Ilyas 45, Muzarabani 3-57, Chatara 3-73) by 14 runs)

The result means Zimbabwe have one foot in the World Cup proper, with another win from their next two games securing qualification - though they can qualify even with two losses, provided other results go their way.

For Oman, while their chances of qualifying are now virtually non-existent by virtue of their inferior net run rate, their performance was yet another reminder of the closing gap between Associate nations and their full-member counterparts.

Looking back on this game though, Oman will rue missed opportunities with each of Williams, Raza and Craig Ervine dropped, while there were also several easy runs given away and run-out chances missed. By contrast Zimbabwe grabbed every inch, most notably when Raza completed an awe-inspiring over-the-shoulder grab to dismiss the set Prajapati.

In the twilight of his career, Williams is currently at the peak of his powers and putting up

scarcely believable numbers.

In Bulawayo, a ground where he has played countless hours of club cricket, he struck a 103-ball 142 - nearly becoming the second man after Sanath Jayasuriya to score back-toback scores of 150 or more in ODIs. His average is vying with his strike rate, and he is now on 532 runs for the tournament with three more games potentially left to play.

On Thursday, he arrived in the middle overs and shifted gears effortlessly. The surface in Bulawayo was not completely to the batters' liking but in Williams, Zimbabwe had a man for all occasions.

He was a part of key partnerships throughout - 64 with Wessly Madhevere, 103 with Raza, 41 with Ryan Burl for 41 and finally 21 with Jongwe. In each of those, Williams was the more dominant partner, finding boundaries all around the ground when needed. Only the excellent Kaleemullah managed to keep him to a strike rate of less than 100 (90).

When Williams fell with still five overs left, Oman might have had hopes of getting in a few miserly overs but Zimbabwe's tail wagged significantlythrough a combination of excellent running, streaky boundaries and fielding lapses - to take 55 off the final five.

At that stage, with a target of 333 set, on a track that wasn't exactly straightforward to bat on, not many thought Oman would put up the fight they did. But their chase was conducted with the nous of more seasoned campaigners - never letting the required rate get out of hand, finding boundaries when necessary and limiting dot balls.

But where Oman had provided the Zimbabwean batters with breathing room, Zimbabwe kept the pressure on, and when the chances came they didn't flinch. Though no one was surprised; they've only been doing it all tournament. (Cricinfo)

Kashyap Prajapati's 103 was the first for Oman against a Full Member team•ICC/Getty Images

Smith equals Waugh with latest chapter in Lord's story

From Louis Cameron at Lord's

STEVE Smith now has only Ricky Ponting in his sights on Australia's alltime ton scoring charts as the star batter enhanced his glittering reputation with his 32nd Test hundred at Lord’s.

England's nightmares of a repeat Smith performance from his dominant 2019 Ashes tour resurfaced as the 33-year-old reached triple figures early on the second day of a series Australia lead 1-0 despite his dual failures in the opening match.

Resuming his innings 15 away from his second century at Lord’s, the quirky right-hander cracked the second new ball for a flurry of boundaries before a cover drive off Jimmy Anderson sealed the milestone.

With that, Smith, who celebrated with arms aloft, a kiss of the badge on his helmet and an embrace with Pat Cummins, had equalled Steve Waugh's mark of 32 Test hundreds, second alltime among Australians, with only Ponting (41)

SOURAV Ganguly

cannot understand the process behind Ajinkya Rahane getting the Test vice-captaincy after spending nearly 18 months on the sidelines.

The former India captain has called for "consistency and continuity" in the selection process.

Rahane, 35, was out of favour for one-and-ahalf years but was India's best batter in the World Test Championship final against Australia earlier this month, with scores of 89 and 46 at The Oval.

Just one Test after he had made a comeback - he played his previous Test in January 2022 - the national selection committee headed by interim chief Shiv Sunder Das re-appointed Rahane as Rohit Sharma's deputy for the West Indies Test series. So was it not ideal

to groom someone like Shubman Gill for the role?

"Yeah I think so," Ganguly told PTI during an exclusive interaction from London.

Ganguly suggested that the allrounder Ravindra Jadeja, a certainty in India's Test XI both home and away, could have been considered for the role.

ahead of that pair. No one has gotten to 32ton mark faster than Smith, playing his 174th innings in his 99th Test.

It also sees Smith become the fourth Australian to have his name etched onto the home of cricket's prestigious Test batting honours board multiple times, joining Warren Bardsley (1912, 1926), Sir Don Bradman (1930, 1938) and Bill Brown (1934, 1938) to score multiple Test hundreds at Lord's.

It further adds to Smith's unique history at Lord's, a ground where he made his Test debut against Pakistan in 2010, where he blazed a mammoth 215 during the 2015 Ashes and where Jofra Archer concussed him in 2019 in one of the Ashes' most brutally memorable moments.

Coming off a rare double failure in Birmingham, Smith might have given England hope of avoiding the run-spree he put on four years ago on these shores when he blazed 774 runs at 111 in four Tests.

But Australia's No.4

back and straightway become vice-captain after 18 months, I don't understand. My only thing is that selection shouldn't be hot and cold. There has to be continuity and consistency in selection."

charged out of the blocks when called to the crease after lunch on Wednesday and showed his quirky method remains a major threat to England.

Smith had gotten bogged down in his second innings of the first Test, scrapping to 16 from 59 balls before being pinned lbw in front of his stumps by Ben Stokes, but here showed a greater willingness to take his opponents on from the get-go.

He pulled second-gamer Josh Tongue in front of square for his first boundary, before back-to-back cover-driven fours off Stuart Broad saw him rocket along to have 24 runs from his first 15 deliveries.

Whether it was due to the scare of being given out caught behind off the very next ball he faced after his consecutive boundaries off Broad, immediately reviewing with success, or because the hosts just locked into a tighter line, but Smith then immediately slowed his scoring rate.

His next 100 balls yielded just 33 runs.

Yet, much like his

ya Rahane also."

'I feel for Sarfaraz Khan'

match-defining partnership with Travis Head during the World Test Championship final against India earlier this month when he scored 121, Smith found the perfect foil in the daring left-hander who dominated the attention of England's bowlers.

Along the way, Smith passed 9,000 Test runs, with only Kumar Sangakkara getting to that milestone faster.

Photo saved: Fastest to 9,000 runs

When Smith did attack though, it was with no hesitation; an on-drive for four off Tongue was a glimpse of him at his very best as he went to stumps with the match firmly in his side's control.

"You know he's not going anywhere when a bloke averages 60 in Test cricket," Head, speaking to Channel Nine, said of batting with Smith after their rollicking 118-run partnership.

"Last week we spoke about not playing the way we would have liked, and that (on day one at Lord's) was the blueprint wasn't it?"(Cricket.com.au).

"I won't say it's a step backward," Ganguly said. "You have been out for 18 months, then you play a Test and you become a vice-captain. I don't understand the thought process behind it. There is Ravindra Jadeja, who has been there for a long time and a certainty in Test matches, he is a candidate.

"... but to just come

The Indian selectors have hit the transition button by excluding Cheteshwar Pujara from the squad for the West Indies tour. Ganguly wants the selectors to have clear communication with Pujara, who has played 103 Tests for India, about his future.

"Selectors should have a clear idea about him [Pujara]," Ganguly said. "Do they need him to play Test cricket anymore or do they want to continue with youngsters, and communicate it to him. Somebody like Pujara can't be dropped, then picked, dropped again and then picked. Same with Ajink-

The selections of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad for the West Indies tour suggests the selectors have emphasised IPL performances over those in domestic cricket, but Ganguly doesn't believe this is the case. He hopes, however that Sarfaraz Khan and Abhimanyu Easwaran, who have been prolific in the Ranji Trophy over recent seasons, will get their chance too.

"I think Yashasvi Jaiswal has scored tons of runs in Ranji Trophy, Irani Trophy, Duleep Trophy. I think that's why he is in the squad," Ganguly said. "I feel for Sarfaraz Khan. At some point he should get an opportunity for the amount of runs that he has scored in past three years.

"And same thing for Abhimanyu Easwaran for the tons of runs he has scored in last five to six years. I am surprised that both of them have been omitted but they should get a chance in future. But Yashasvi Jasiwal is a good selection."

Ganguly has observed Sarfaraz from close quarters as director of cricket at Delhi Capitals. He rubbished the idea that Sarfaraz has a weakness against fast bowling.

"If you don't play him against fast bowling, how do you know?" he asked. "If he had problems he wouldn't have scored so many runs all around [India]. I personally feel he has no problems against fast bowling and he should be given an opportunity."(Cricinfo)

Ganguly on Rahane as Test vice-captain: 'I don't understand the thought process behind it'

Ajinkya Rahane has been named India's vice-captain for the Test series in the West Indies • PA Images/Getty

Bakewell renews sponsorship of RHTYSC teams for 24th successive year

THE very successful relationship between the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS, and Bakewell was renewed for the 24th successive year on Wednesday at a simple presentation ceremony at the Company’s Triumph, East Coast Demerara head office.

Secretary to Bakewell General Manager Natasha Bhikhari handed over the sponsorship cheque to RHTYSC Secretary Hilbert Foster in the presence of club executive Tyron Pottaya.

Foster, who is also President of the very active Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), noted that Bakewell is the second-longest sponsor of the RHTYSC after Farfan and Mendes Ltd, which has been on board for 27 years.

The company has sponsored the club’s Under -17 and second-division teams at the cost of $450,000 (four hundred and fifty thousand dollars) for 2023, while it pumped in another $200,000 (two hundred thousand dollars) for the RHTYSC Cricket Academy.

The cricket teams are among the best in Berbice and Foster recalled that the company first sponsored the second-division team before adding the strong Under-17 team to the sponsorship.

The two teams have won a total of over 20 tournaments and the Under-17 team in 2023 has so far reached the finals of the BCB/Ali Bakery tournament, where they will play arch rivals Albion for championship honours.

The teams since 2000 have also produced dozens of players who have gone on to play for either Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies teams, including such players as Kevin Sinclair, Esaun Crandon, Royston Crandon, Assad Fudadin, Kevlon Ander-

Man. United agree deal to sign Mason Mount, England midfielder from Chelsea

MANCHESTER United have agreed a deal to sign England midfielder Mason Mount from Chelsea on a five-year contract for £55m, plus £5m in add-ons.

Mount, 24, will be Erik ten Hag's first signing of the summer as he looks to strengthen his side following United's qualification for next season's Champions League.

Chelsea spent £600m last season and needed to sell before 30 June to ease Financial Fair Play concerns.

Mount joined Chelsea aged six.

Chelsea had rejected United's first three bids but talks between the two clubs resumed this week to resolve the impasse.

It is understood Chelsea preferred not to lose Mount but were unable to successfully negotiate a new contract with his deal set to expire next year.

Mount, who has scored 33 goals in 195 appearances for Chelsea since making his senior debut in 2019, missed the end of the domestic season with injury as the Blues came 12th - their lowest finish for more than 25 years.

son, Shemaine Campbelle, Shakabi Gajnabi, Jonathan Rampersaud, Dominic Rikhi, Askhay Homraj, Delbert Hicks, Khemraj Mahadeo, Jermey Sandia, Junior Sinclair, Keith Simpson, Matthew Pottaya, Sheneeta Grimmond, Erva Giddings and Slyus Tyndall.

He noted with pride that the relation had produced 12 players who have played cricket at the international level and this was a result of the investment made by the popular bakery.

Foster expressed thanks to the company and hailed them as a true friend of the RHTYSC over the years.

Under the sponsorship, the teams are expected to undertake close to 40 community projects/programmes under the name of the company.

These would include the distribution of food hampers, educational materials, award ceremonies, feeding of the needy, cleanup campaigns, television programmes and camps for youths. The company also renewed their sponsorship of the club’s cricket acade-

my, which bowls off at the AreaH Ground on the 17th of July with at least 120 youths in attendance.

The academy will be conducted by head Coach Winston Smith and a battery of coaches, including Ryan Algu, Davindra Ramdihal and Eon Hooper. The main objective of the academy is to make sure that the rich tradition of the club continues in the future by producing outstanding players who are all rounded individuals. Players would not only be trained how to be proper cricketers on the cricket field but also how to be representatives of the club. The club will provide all the gears for the academy and also prepare snacks for all the attendees for the two-week programme which starts at 9am daily.

A total of $400,000 (four hundred thousand dollars) worth of prizes would be shared out to the top awardees . Each of the players at the academy will also receive a school bag and a collection of educational materials . Foster expressed thanks to Bakewell General Manager Rajin Ganga for his support over

the years and reassured the company that the club will continue to represent its brand with discipline, passion and pride.

Meanwhile, Panthera Solutions, a member of the Farfan and Mendes Ltd company, has come on board to sponsor repairs to the Area H Ground front internal fence.

The sponsorship will enable the RHTYSC cricket teams to replace the fence, which has been destroyed by animals.

Foster expressed thanks to the company, especially Andrew Dinsdale and Ray Austin for their support. The company has over the years supported the club with sponsorship for its cricket development programmes and annual Christmas Village.

Repairs to the Area H Ground main pavillion will soon commence with the assistance of West Indies white ball allrounder Kevin Sinclair, while overseas-based friend of the club, Dr Frank Denbow, has pledged to donate a motorized grass cutter towards the upkeep of the venue.

United finished third in the Premier League and while Ten Hag has prioritised a new striker this summer, Mount's ability to operate in advanced positions is understood to have made him an attractive option for the club.

Mount won the Champions League in 2021 with Chelsea and started during the side's 1-0 win over Manchester City in the final.

He also won the Fifa Club World Cup and Uefa Super Cup with the Blues.

He has been capped 36 times by England, scoring five goals, and was part of Gareth Southgate's squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Mount came through Chelsea's academy before joining Vitesse on loan for the 2017-18 season, scoring nine goals in 29 Eredivisie appearances.

The following campaign he was loaned to Derby County, scoring eight goals 35 Championship games under manager Frank Lampard as the Rams suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa in the play-off final.

Upon his return to Chelsea in 2019, Mount made his breakthrough under the newly-appointed Lampard and became a key player at Stamford Bridge.

Last month Chelsea appointed former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager, replacing interim boss Lampard who had taken over following the sacking of Graham Potter.

The Blues are seeking to reduce their squad size and have sold Kai Havertz to Arsenal and Mateo Kovacic to Manchester

City this week, while fellow midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek is close to joining AC Milan.

Meanwhile, Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly have moved to Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli, and N'Golo Kante has agreed a deal with fellow Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.

Midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko also left Chelsea as a free agent after spending last season on loan at AC Milan.

Deal raises questions for Man Utd midfield

Both clubs view this as a good deal.

Chelsea have secured a guaranteed £55m for a player who had made it perfectly clear they wanted to leave and could have done for nothing in 12 months' time given he had no intention of signing a contract extension.

For their part, United feel they have held a line drawn with what was said to be their "final" offer last week, because the additional £5m payments are only triggered through multiple major trophy triumphs over a number of seasons.

It is understood Ten Hag values Mount's versatility, but views him primarily as an attacking midfielder, which puts him in direct competition with Christian Eriksen.

To many, this will not be viewed as a bad thing as the 31-year-old Dane's influence tended to wane in the second half of matches.

Mount's arrival also raises question marks over the futures of Fred and Scott McTominay.

Fulham is a possible destination for Fred and United are open to offers for the 30-year-old Brazilian.

McTominay's situation is more complex.

United would be happy to keep the Scotland international, 26, who has spent his whole career with them.

However, it is clear McTominay is not viewed as a regular first choice, and it is unlikely the club would stand in his way if an acceptable offer came in that he wanted to take.

Natasha Bhikhari of Bakewell hands over the 2023 sponsorship cheque to RHTYSC Secretary Hilbert Foster

Mason Mount is Erik ten Hag's first signing of the summer

England let Australia back in at Lord's …Stephen

Smith completes 32nd Test Century

ENGLAND came close to wasting a superb fightback with some brainless batting late on the second day of the second Ashes Test against Australia at Lord's.

The home side had done much to reverse the damage of a poor opening day, bowling Australia out for 416 and reaching 188-1 in response.

But Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett and Joe Root all gifted their wickets to Australia's telegraphed short-ball plan, Duckett falling for 98 and missing out on a maiden Ashes hundred.

The three wickets fell for 34 runs before Harry Brook, who had several near misses in his 45, and captain Ben Stokes, with a calm 17 from 57 balls, took England to 2784, 138 behind.

The carelessness of England's batting was compounded by the fact key Australia spinner Nathan Lyon was off the field with a calf injury that will be assessed overnight.

Steve Smith earlier completed his 32nd Test hundred before being dismissed for 110 by Josh Tongue.

That was part of an Australia collapse of five wickets for 65 runs on Thursday morning, with Tongue and Ollie Robinson finishing with three

wickets apiece.

England risk taking Bazball approach too far

This was so close to being a magnificent day for England - for more than two sessions they were every bit as good as they were lethargic on Wednesday.

As the pitch quickened up, the home bowlers found more zip. The catching was sharp and the batting, led by the increasingly dependable Duckett, was grinding Australia down.

Indeed, as the touring bowlers battled in vain to extract any movement from

the ball, England's only error came from Zak Crawley, who ran down the pitch and was stumped down the leg side off Lyon for a handsome 48.

Then came eight overs of madness that threatened to derail any chance England have of regaining the Ashes. Their success under Stokes has been built on an attacking style, but the reckless way they allowed Australia back in defied cricketing logic.

What made the collapse worse were the warnings England failed to heed. Duckett had been discomforted by the short ball and Root caught off

a no-ball, yet England refused to temper their aggression.

At the end of a breathless, action-packed day the Test is deliciously poised, though that does little to shake off the feeling of what might have been.

Reckless England undo Duckett's good work

Duckett has been a revelation since returning to Test cricket in Decemberhis average of 53.58 is the fifth-highest of all men to have done the job in at least 10 matches for England.

He added 91 in less than 18 overs with Crawley and

Lyon injury could yet define this Test

..If you wanted any more comparisons to 2005, was this the Glenn McGrath moment?

By Andrew McGlashan

AT around 4.30pm, Nathan Lyon, playing his 100th consecutive Test, set off to chase a ball towards the Grand Stand boundary.

He pulled up and started to limp, a few moments later he was hobbling towards the dressing room. England were 182 for 1 and Australia had, at least for the day, likely the match and maybe even the series, lost a specialist bowler, one with 496 Test wickets to his name.

If you wanted any more comparisons to 2005, was

this the Glenn McGrath moment?

It had already been a day where Australia had let slip their grip on the contest. It had started late on the first evening when they handed two wickets to Joe Root shortly before the second new ball.

Although Steven Smith crafted a superb century, the slide continued on Thursday morning and in all their last seven wickets fell for 100. From England's point of view a total of 416 isn't a great result when you've asked a side to bat, but they had not been shut out the way Smith and Travis Head had

threatened to.

A few hours later, Lyon was being helped off the field, a fate he had avoided since being recalled midway through the 2013 Ashes - the corresponding fixture on this ground was the last Test he did not play.

The sun was breaking through the clouds, the pitch was looking flat, England's second-wicket pair of Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope had put together 91 in 20 overs at that point and Cameron Green was struggling to keep his foot behind the line.

Pat Cummins knew there would be times when he would be challenged

another 97 in just over 20 with Pope, who was able to bat at number three despite the shoulder injury he suffered in the field on day one.

Duckett cut, clipped and played drives with style, but when Australia went short with as many as six fielders on the boundary, he and Pope took leave of their senses.

Pope, standing baseball style, miscued Cameron Green on 42 and Root only survived gloving behind in the same over because Green overstepped.

Duckett, with a hundred at his mercy, top-edged Josh Hazlewood and, most incredibly for a player of his class, Root flapped at Mitchell Starc. All three wickets were to catches behind square on the leg side.

Even then Brook continued to take the bouncers on, somehow avoiding being bowled when he was outfoxed by a Green slower ball and was dropped at square leg by Marnus Labuschagne when he hooked Pat Cummins.

Stokes, so often England's biggest aggressor, played the situation sensibly, and the skipper has the chance to guide his team to a lead on Friday.

Australia gifted way back in

From 339-5 overnight,

Australia had the chance to dominate the match, only to surrender the initiative then have it presented back.

Smith's hundred seemed inevitable from midway through day one. Unbeaten on 85 at the beginning of the day, he drove James Anderson for four to reach his 12th Ashes hundred - only the great Don Bradman has more.

By that point, Alex Carey had been lbw on review to Stuart Broad and Starc slashed Anderson behind. Tongue, though, was the pick of the bowlers and enticed Smith to a drive to fifth slip to dismiss him for the second time this summer - he had earlier done so for Worcestershire playing against Smith's Sussex.

When Robinson mopped up the tail, it completed an overall slump of seven wickets for 100 runs and Australia's malaise continued in the field.

Like the first Test, fielders were scattered to the boundary, Starc and Hazlewood went at more than six an over, the injury to Lyon could still prove to be a pivotal moment in the series.

The short-ball plan was hatched in desperation and England's compliance in their own downfall beggared belief.(BBC Sport).

in this series. There had been some at Edgbaston, but here was one he would have hoped to avoid. With frontline spin not an option, they went for the short-ball plan and England obligingly helped them out.

There was more than a hint of Ben Stokes' own Bazball tactics in the way Cummins marshaled his side. Not that England's batters needed much persuading, but he dared them to take it on with fielders scattered in the deep and they were happy to roll the dice. It was only Stokes, himself, who brought a modicum of calm to proceedings.

"We felt like we were in the game for a lot of the time there," Smith said. "Until probably Stokes, he came out and he was starting to duck under a few, but we were setting the fields and they were taking it on and creating opportunities.

"It was interesting. Most of the fast bowlers, they probably wouldn't want to keep charging in bowling the short stuff but while it looked as likely as it did, on a pretty benign surface, it was the right way to go. If you get under a few then might stop doing it. They kept taking it on and kept presenting opportunities for us."

Pope picked out deep square leg, Duckett found long leg two short of a second century at Lord's and Root was brilliantly caught by Smith at backward

square leg having been given a life second ball when Green overstepped in the same over he claimed Pope. All of a sudden it was 222 for 4 and Australia's predicament was not quite so bad. It would have been 243 for 5 had Marnus Labuschagne not spilled Harry Brook at square leg on 25. However, barring a remarkable recovery from Lyon overnight Australia face the rest of this game without someone who has been ever present, and recently a consistent matchwinner.

Green, bowling at Lord's for the first time, sent down six no-balls in his seven scattergun overs but the importance of his presence in Australia's attack has grown significantly in the light of Lyon's injury. (Cricinfo)

Ben Duckett acknowledges his half-century • ( PA Images via Getty Images)

Birthday boy Gray batters T&T, St Kitts suffer heavy defeat to USA

ST LOUIS, Missouri, (CMC) – Everton winger

Demarai Gray celebrated his 27th birthday with a brilliant brace, as Jamaica’s Reggae Boys thrashed Caribbean counterparts

Trinidad and Tobago 4-1 in the CONCACAF Gold Cup here Wednesday night.

Gray netted in the 14th minute and then again on the half-hour mark, sandwiching Aston Villa forward Leon Bailey’s 18th minute strike, as Jamaica stormed to a comfortable 3-0 lead at the break at CityPark in the American midwest.

Andre Rampersad, who plays for HFX Wanderers in the Canadian Premier League, pulled a goal back in the 49th but United Statesbased Molik Khan’s own goal sealed a miserable night for Trinidad and Tobago.

There was also misery for another English-speaking Caribbean side St Kitts and Nevis who conceded four goals inside half-hour, to slump to a 6-0 defeat to reigning champions United States.

Following the second round of Group A matches, United States top the standings on four points but only

on goal difference, as Jamaica also lie second on four points, with T&T sitting third on three points.

Chasing their first win following a draw with the US in their opener last weekend, Jamaica wasted little time in taking the lead when West Ham striker Michail Antonio did a brilliant job of holding up play, feeding Bailey who then set up Gray for a clinical finish from about nine yards out on the left.

Bailey, who missed a penalty against the USA, then beat the off-side trap and chested down a ball floated over the top from the centre circle, before volleying a left-footer past goalkeeper Nicklas Frenderup.

The goal was initially

waved off for off-side but a VAR check saw the decision reversed.

And Jamaica stretched their lead even further in the 30th minute, Kevon Lambert putting through Antonio in the box, and Gray easily slotting in the resulting squared pass.

“I’m happy. It’s a very important three points. We were disappointed to [draw] against USA in the first game after being ahead for most of the game,” said Gray, in only his second game for Jamaica.

“But this game was important and to score four goals as well. I think we could’ve been more ruthless as we had a lot more chances but three points is the most important [thing].”

Trinidad and Tobago hit back in style almost immediately after the resumption, Levi Garcia taking defender Dishon Bernard to the byline down the right fand squaring for Rampersaid who nudged home from close range.

Bailey then missed an open goal from close range in the 55th after being set up by Antonio before Shamar Nicholson had his shot saved in the 65th, with Antonio missing the follow up.

Another chance went abegging in the 66th when Bailey missed again from the box under pressure from a lunging Kareem Moses, as Jamaica continued to squander opportunities.

In the second of five minutes of stoppage time, 17-year-old substitute Dujuan Richards’s rasping drive from 22 yards out took a deflection off Khan and past Frenderup, to seal Trinidad and Tobago’s fate.

Meanwhile, St Kitts suffered their second straight loss in the other game at the venue, Jesús Ferreira netting a hat-trick in the 16th, 25th, 50th minutes and Djordje Mihailovic adding a brace in the 12th and 79th as the USA won 6-0.

Seales in line for India series return following injury

…named in 18-man training squad to prepare for India series

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Confirmed 15man franchise squads for the Professional Cricket League following the Player Draft held last Thursday:

SQUADS:

BARBADOS PRIDE: Shayne Moseley, Zachary McCaskie, Raymon Reifer, Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich, Akeem Jordan, Dominic Drakes, Jomel Warrican, Kevin Wickham, Jair McAllister; Draft Picks: Roshon Primus, Chaim-Alexis Holder, Jonathan Drakes, Keon Harding, Camarie Boyce. GUYANA

EAGLES: Veerasammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie, Tevin Imlach, Tagenarine

Chanderpaul, Kevin Sinclair, Nial Smith, Ronsford

Beaton, Matthew Nandu, Kemol Savory, Kevlon

Anderson; Draft Picks: Shamar Joseph, Rampertab Ramnath, Mavendra

Dindyal, Junior Sinclair, Antony Adams.

JAMAICA SCORPI -

ONS: Kirk McKenzie, Ojay Shields, Abhijai

Mansingh, Jeavor Royal, Marquino Mindley, Derval Green, Peat Salmon, Javel Glenn, Daniel Beckford, Tevin Gilzene; Draft Picks: Shalome Parnell,

Carlos Brown, Andre Bailey, Gordon Bryan, Brad Barnes.

LEEWARD ISLANDS

HURRICANES: Kieran

Powell, Rahkeem Cornwall, Jahmar Hamilton, Colin Archibald, Kofi James, Karima Gore, Jeremiah Louis, Daniel Doram, Keacy Carty, Javier Spencer; Draft Picks: Justin Greaves, Oshane Thomas, Nathan Edward, Miklye Louis, Zawandi White.

TRINIDAD & TOBA-

GO RED FORCE: Darren Bravo, Yannic Cariah, Jason Mohammed, Imran Khan, Bryan Charles,

Khary Pierre, Terrance Hinds, Tion Webster, Shannon Gabriel, Anderson Phillip; Draft Picks: Kjorn Ottley, Amir Jangoo, Jyd Goolie, Cephas Cooper, Shaaron Lewis.

WINDWARD ISLANDS VOLCANOES: Sunil Ambris, Alick Athanaze, Larry Edward, Kavem Hodge, Shermon Lewis, Ryan John, Darius Martin, Preston McSween, Kimani Melius, Tevyn Walcott; Draft Picks: Shamar Springer, Jeremy Solozano, Kenneth Dember, Johann Jeremiah, Nicklaus Redhead.

ST .JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Fit-again fast bowler Jayden Seales has been named in an 18-man training squad to prepare for the India series which bowls off next month.

The 21-year-old was sidelined since last December with a knee injury which required surgery, but subsequently underwent rehabilitation and has made a full recovery.

Trinidadian Seales, who made his Test debut as a teenager two years ago, has taken 37 wickets from 10 matches at 24 runs apiece.

Selectors have also named free-scoring left-hander Kirk McKenzie in the training squad, the 22-year-old having plundered a first class double hundred back in April and a couple of half centuries on West Indies A’s tour of Bangladesh last month.

Another left-hander, Alick Athanaze, who also toured Bangladesh and was a member of the West Indies senior squad on the South Africa Test tour earlier this year, is also a part of the squad.

Fast bowler Jair McAllister and all-rounder Kavem Hodge are the two other uncapped players called up for the camp at the Coolidge Cricket Ground starting Friday.

Struggling right-hander Nkrumah Bonner, who was dropped for the South Africa tour and is yet to regain form, has been included along with off-spinning all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall who played his last Test nearly two years ago.

West Indies face India in the opening Test at Windsor Park in Dominica starting July 12 before travelling to Trinidad for the second Test at Queen’s Park Oval eight days later.

SQUAD – Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Alick Athanaze, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Kavem Hodge, Akeem Jordan, Jair McAllister, Kirk McKenzie, Marquino Mindley, Anderson Phillip, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican.

Everton’s Demarai Gray celebrates a goal with Aston Villa’s Leon Bailey on Wednesday night

Fast bowler Jayden Seales

Professional Cricket League confirmed 15-man squads

Thomas, Greaves to Hurricanes; Springer, Solozano head to Volcanoes

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Only Leeward Islands Hurricanes and Windward Islands Volcanoes dipped into the pool and made selections from outside of their territory when Cricket West Indies staged the Professional Cricket League Player Draft virtually last Thursday.

Hurricanes grabbed the headlines with their selection of discarded West Indies pacer Oshane Thomas from Jamaica Scorpions, in addition to Barbadian all-rounder Justin Greaves from the Volcanoes.

At the same time, Volcanoes kept Barbadian wicketkeeper-batsman Tevyn Walcott in their unit, while boosting their contracted squad with former West Indies Under-19 World Cup-winning all-rounder Shamar Springer from Barbados Pride, and Test opener Jeremy Solozano from Trinidad & Tobago Red Force.

The six territorial franchises – Pride, Guyana Harpy Eagles, Scorpions, Hurricanes, Red Force, and Volcanoes – largely stuck to the core of the players that represented them in the West Indies Championship and West Indies Super50 Cup over the past year.

According to a CWI

‘Didn't look good’: Aussies sweating on Lyon injury

news release, each franchise was required to name a list of 10 “protected” players before the Draft, and they were then required to pick five players, one from each of the five rounds, during the Draft to complete their 15-member contracted squad list for an interim three-month period.

“The interim contracts

The news release added that the next edition of the Super50 Cup is scheduled to be played from October 21 to November 11 in Antigua and Trinidad, and the franchises will get the opportunity to revise their contracted squads ahead of October 1 once the West Indies international

contracted players.

Though Sinclair has not played for Harpy Eagles in either the Championship or the Super50 Cup, he has made eight Twenty20 appearances for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the Caribbean Premier League, while fast bowler Shamar Joseph, opener Matthew Nandu, and wicketkeeper-batsman Kemol Savory played in the last season.

ingh, pacer Ojay Shields, and batsman Tevin Gilzene – all members of the squad during the past season.

Off-spinner Peat Salmon earned a recall, and the uncapped quartet of legspin bowling all-rounder Javel Glenn, former West Indies Under-19 left-hander Daniel Beckford, left-arm pacer Shalome Parnell, and all-rounder Andre Bailey have nailed a first contract.

Ryan John and former West Indies Under-19 captain Kimani Melius, two members of the squad during the past season.

will run from July 1 to September 30, with new 12-month contracts to start from October 1 to September 30 next year, following the strategic decision to now align contracts with the CWI financial year,” the news release stated.

“Each franchise was required to contract two players under the age of 25 as of October 1 this year as part of the overall regional programme to ensure playing opportunities for younger and developing players.”

retainer contracts for the 2023-24 season have been confirmed.

“All international retained players and umpires have been offered threemonth contract extensions to September 30 this year,” the release stated.

Harpy Eagles, this year’s West Indies Championship winners, have selected the uncapped trio of off-spinner Junior Sinclair, and Guyana Under-19 batsmen Rampertab Ramnath and Mavendra Dindyal among six newly

Scorpions, the Super50 Cup champions, made sweeping changes to their list of contractees, retaining only six players from last season – Test pacer Marquino Mindley, West Indies A left-handed opener Kirk McKenzie, pacer Gordon Bryan, spinner Jeavor Royal, former Jamaica Under-19 captain Brad Barnes, and fellow batsman Carlos Brown.

The new retained list includes established pacer Derval Green, spin bowling all-rounder Abhijai Mans -

Hurricanes retained nine players from last year’s list, and they added left-arm pacer Javier Spencer to complete their “protected” list, while adding West Indies Under-19 left-arm pacer Nathan Edward, leg-spinner Mikyle Louis, who made his List A debut for West Indies Under-19s in the 2017 Super50 Cup, and former Under-19 captain Zawandi White.

Hurricanes retained nine players from last year’s list, and added former West Indies Under-19 all-rounder

Pride retained 10 players from last year’s list, and West Indies A pacer Jair McAllister, former West Indies Under-19 batsman Kevin Wickham, former Red Force all-rounder Roshon Primus, and left-arm spinner Camarie Boyce made the cut for the next season.

Red Force retained 11 players from last year’s list, including former West Indies left-hander Darren Bravo, but have boosted their list with the return of wicketkeeper-batsman Amir Jangoo from the Hurricanes, and have added opener Kjorn Ottley, former West Indies Under-19 Cephas Cooper and Trinbago Knight Riders leftarm pacer Shaaron Lewis.

Initial indications suggested champion off-spinner Nathon could face time on sidelines after going down with right calf problem on day two of second Test at Lord’s. (See story on Page 26).

Photo saved: Nathan Lyon

West Indies fast bowler Oshane Thomas