Issuu

monday 6th june, 2022

3,000 jobs to be created

No.106745

–– with opening up of lands in Region Six

–– agriculture will continue to be priority sector, says VP Jagdeo

President Ali urges world leaders to ‘stop gyaffing’, fix climate issues 08 PAGE

President, Dr Irfaan Ali planted a ‘Bajan’ mahogany tree in the National Park at the conclusion of the World Environment Day Green Walk ceremony on Sunday. The President in noting the symbolic nature of the tree, says it comes from a sister state in CARICOM, Barbados, which like Guyana is affected by climate change (Office of the President photo)

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Ending ‘unfair 02 treatment’ for children with disability

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Centre of Excellence Local company investing $419M in 03 for cancer treatment pre-stressed concrete piles facility in the works 09 PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

Ending ‘unfair treatment’ for children with disability - parents welcome automatic public assistance announced by President By Telesha Ramnarine

AVIL Bisnauth was refused four times when she attempted to apply for public assistance for her son. It would be for one reason or the other that the officers would decline her application. On many occasions, she felt that she and her son were judged harshly and on the basis of only what people could see on the outside. No one truly understood the difficulties associated with the single mom raising her 13-year-old child with Spina Bifida. Her son, Alex Persaud, was born with a hole in his spine which renders him unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair. So while he may look fine as if simply sitting in a wheelchair, it is a mountainous task for Avil to care for him properly. Perhaps it is for this reason that she is one of the persons who was thrilled to hear President, Dr Irfaan Ali announce that automatic public assistance would be given to children with disabilities as a means of long-term support.

“We were there at State House. It was very good hearing about so much that the President will be doing for people with disabilities. No one usually pays attention to those with special needs… no one gives you anything,” she shared in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday. Avil also welcomes the $100,000 grant that was announced. She currently has to do everything with the money coming in from the small shop that she runs. Accessing public assistance, she said, has been a challenge. “I applied four times and not once did they grant it. They would tell me to summons the father or get a job or that government can’t mind my child. I’m so relieved; automatic qualification would be so good,” Avil expressed. She is hoping that the buses announced by President Ali would be able to accommodate those children like her son who are confined to wheelchairs. AMAZING NEWS Acting Chair of the National Commission on Disability Vidushi Persaud-Mc-

ber agencies across Guyana are extremely elated with the announcement by the President. “We are aware that there are additional expenses that those parents need to incur as it relates to covering the needs because at times they cannot use regular transportation, may have additional medical expenses; expenses with diapers and so forth. We must commend His Excellency and by extension, his government for all the measures they would have [sic] implemented for persons with disabilities,” Singh offered. SORE TOPIC He is also happy that PWDs would no longer have the challenges that they do to access public assistance. “It is a sore topic that has been ongoing for many years and we are very happy that finally the President would have [sic] addressed this.” Singh said several of the announcements made are in line with what is in the Disability Act and also in line with what the disability community has been asking for. “I am happy that the President is fulfilling his party’s manifesto

Sophia Subrattie and her son Jesiah Kinnon, described the recent announcements for persons with disabilities (PWDs) as “amazing news.” “I commend President Ali for the sterling declaration that has been made and we also commend the Government of Guyana, in particular the First Lady, for her recent announcement of the new building.” Persaud-McKinnon pointed out that the majority of persons with disabilities did not benefit from the initial COVId-19 grant. “So we are very grateful for this laudable cash-relief measure that was recently announced.” Programme Coordinator of the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), Ganesh Singh, said all mem-

Acting Chair of NCD Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon “So I am very pleased at the announcements. It will be helpful to many children. I just hope that there wouldn’t be conditions attached to it.” Sophia Subrattie, of Tucber Park, New Amsterdam, is another parent who deeply appreciates the new measures announced. The single-parent mother of Jesiah Dos Santos, an autistic 13-year-old, has to contend with several expenses to be able to provide quality care for her son. For one thing, she has to ensure that she gets a driver to take Jesiah around

Avil Bisnauth and her son Alex

to the disability community and the promises he made to us when we had met him.” Meanwhile, Afsana Ally, of Number 76 Village, Corriverton, Region Six, was also very happy to hear about the new measures in place for PWDs. Her 12-year-old daughter, Aseefa Ally, has had a vision disability since from birth which makes achieving each milestone in her life a challenge. Even so, Aseefa has been doing very well in school and this of course takes lots of resources. But her parents were denied public assistance because both of them are teachers and were deemed financially fit to support her. “Her needs drain our finances,” Afsana expressed.

as many would not understand his condition and way of doing things. Her son, like many others with a disability, is “high on maintenance” and so the cash grant announced is especially welcomed by her. Another parent, Stacy Reece, of Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, is caring for her 15-year-old son Jarese Jeffrey who has a vision disability. She believes that the new measures would aid PWDs in becoming more independent. Reece would especially like to see more attention being given to children with disabilities who would like to pursue higher education, along with a subsidised cost for their medication.

3,000 jobs to be created

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

–– with opening up of lands in Region Six

–– agriculture will continue to be priority sector, says VP Jagdeo SOME 3,000 new jobs are expected to be created in Region Six, as there are plans to open more lands for agricultural development in the region. Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo made the announcement during his recent visit to the region, where he emphasised that despite the discovery of oil, the government will continue to place major emphasis on development of the agriculture sector to maintain national food security. At a meeting at Number 63 Village, in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), the Vice-President informed farmers that the Ministries of Agriculture and Finance have identified some 35,000 acres of land in the region for cultivation. “They have identified these 35,000 acres of land, that, because we’re building the road going down deeper into ‘Moleson’, [land] will be opened up along with the land that the farmers were planting

cane to supply Skeldon,” he said, while adding that the farmers now have to think about what crops they will plant. To this end, a group of the farmers that own some of the lands formed a committee, and indicated that they will work with the Ministry of Agriculture and Finance to develop proposals. These proposals, the Vice-President said, will inform the authorities on the types of infrastructure, drainage and irrigation and roads that may be necessary to provide access to the lands, along with the type of crops that can be cultivated there. Against this backdrop, Dr. Jagdeo stated that when this is done, it can result in approximately 3,000 jobs, given the size of the project. Moreover, as it relates to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) lands, the government has decided to split the use into three parts. Some lands will be left for sugar cultivation,

another portion for aquaculture, and the remainder for hemp production. As such, in relation to aquaculture, the Vice-President said that this can be a lucrative venture that can possibly bring in more revenue if it is done well. However, while speaking about the possibility of using the lands for hemp production, he noted the importance of a processing plant, and also spoke about distributing the lands to the smaller farmers for the cultivation of hemp to supply the processing plant. “So, we’re hoping to have a processing plant here in Berbice, and maybe get some of the GuySuCo lands. We don’t want large-scale plantation at the beginning; we don’t want to overload the market… and license the small farmers to grow and supply to the factory, and then they will process that,” Dr. Jagdeo said. According to the Vice-President, these are some of the projects the government is working on

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo as he addressed farmers in Number 63 Village, in Region Six (Office of the Vice-President photo) to put lands into productive is aware of the troubles of open up more lands so use and create more jobs in countries, some closer to that our farmers have Berbice. home, which have neglect- better access,” Dr. JagFood security and aged their agriculture sector. deo said as he told the riculture, he said, will be Investment in the sec- farmers that “there’s a an important part of the tor, he said, is paramount. lot of effort by the govfuture of Guyana, and em“So, over the next few ernment and emphasis phasised that oil will not years, you’re going to see back on agriculture and put agriculture on the back us start doing almost all I wanted you to underburner as the government of those roads that can stand that.”

Local company investing $419M in pre-stressed concrete piles facility

WITH plans for Guyana’s major infrastructural transformation moving apace, a local company, Pile Pro Inc. (PPI), is investing some $419 million to set up a Pre-Stressed Concrete (PC) Piles manufacturing facility on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. The company is making this major investment to take advantage of the booming construction sector, which, it noted, has seen a shortage of concrete piles. This is according to its project summary which was recently submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for review. According to Pile Pro Inc. a Guyanese-owned business, the concrete piles produced at the facility will be used in the construction of wharves, bridges, and buildings, among other major infrastructural works. “Pre-Stressed Concrete

(PC) piles is a construction product produced by casting concrete together with wire stands and hardeners in a reusable mold which is then cured in a controlled environment. These piles, being strengthened by the steel wire

strands, are generally used for foundation purposes for buildings, bridges, wharves, etc.,” the project summary read. PPI intends to utilise raw materials such as sand, aggregates, cement, hardeners,

and wire strands to produce its PC piles. The company intends to use some five acres of the mined-out land in Dora to produce and stockpile its piles. It will have immediate access to construction-grade sand, one of the main raw

materials for the production of piles. PPI is situated close to a wharf which it will use to secure its other raw materials, namely, aggregates, cement, and wire strands. Piles will be produced to 30 meters long, a feat unmatched in Guyana. This of course will make it difficult to traverse Guyana’s roads so the company will use the existing port facilities of Silica Sandport Inc. (SSI) to move its piles via the Demerara River to the marketplace. The method of transportation will therefore be via the river. The anticipated volume of production per month for PPI is around 2,500 metres of PC piles. Each month, this would require 200 tons of sand, 120 tons of cement, 250 tons of stone, 10 tons of steel, and half a ton of hardener. Water supply for production will come from the Demerara

River (at 10m° per day) and electricity will be provided by the power-generation facilities of Silica Sandport Inc., a company that lies adjacent to the proposed location for PPI. PPI has already procured the molds capable of producing four pieces of 0.36 by 0.36 metres by 30 metres and four pieces of 0.41 by 0.41 metres by 30 metres long piles every two days. According to the company, its estimated workforce for the construction phase is six persons, with a duration of two months. Stage two, which involves the installation of the foundation for the concrete batching plant and molds, will have a workforce of ten for a duration of four months. The company’s permanent workforce for the production and storage of the concrete piles is estimated to be eight persons and this phase will carry on indefinitely.

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

Tribute to my friend George By Rickey Singh

IT is with deep sadness that I learned, on Saturday, of the passing of my dear friend and brother, the esteemed author and social commentator George Lamming. His extensive body of work reflects a deep and personal understanding of the complex historical, cultural and political landscape of the region. His was a powerful Caribbean voice – one that is urgently required even now, as CARICOM hovers over important

decisions to be made on the 2022 Summit of the Americas. He was well known as an outstanding and a fearless voice against external pressures aimed at undermining national and regional unity and political sovereignty. There is no doubt that he would have advised Caribbean governments to absent themselves from this gathering. George was a man of tremendous courage, singular in his undaunted pursuit of truth and justice. My family must forever be grateful to him

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when, in 1983, he assembled and led students on a peaceful march to protest the revocation of my work permit because of my criticism of the ill-fated Grenada invasion. He never shied away, nor was he ever ambivalent when it came to urging the CARICOM governments never to waver when the moment arose to be firm in their solidarity on commonly held values, or their right to regional unity and relationship. George’s influence on academia and political

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thought has been profound. It was my good fortune to listen to him deliver various public lectures across the campuses of the University of the West Indies. Particularly memorable, was an event at the Cave Hill campus in 2004, where, in his unique baritone, for a breathtaking two hours, he masterfully weaved together a review of four decades of his literary work. George commanded respect for his unflinching forthrightness whenever the occasion arose, of

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speaking truth to power – especially when it came to the preservation and dignity of the call to leadership of the CARICOM member states. There was also a gentleness and humility to George that was rarely seen save for those intimate with him. On occasion I witnessed his quiet and respectful acquiesce to his mother’s playful chiding. He loved her dearly. He was and will always be remembered by me as a journalist who had the privilege of having a close and special

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Late author and social commentator, George Lamming (Caribbean Affairs Inc. photo) friendship with such a brilliant scholar, and a great man. May God grant you peace dear George. Farewell from all the family.

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Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

NGO plans to offer night-care services to single mothers

KELVIN Fortune, the chairman of Youths for Better Living (YBL), a locally-based non-governmental organisation, is looking to establish a day and night care facility to assist single mothers. Fortune told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday that the initiative was birthed out of the recent tragedy that claimed the lives of the three young children who were burnt to death in their Barnwell, East Bank Demerara home while their mother was at work. He said that many single mothers are struggling to provide for their household, something he has seen first-hand during his work in the humanitarian field.

“What I want to do is open a night care, where mothers who are working… in the nights can bring their children,” Fortune said. He added: “There are mothers who want to work and [for] some, the only job they can get is security guard and some security guards, they work in the night and they don’t have anyone to take care of their children. So, they are either forced to leave them or forced to not get the job. Some of them don’t have families that are supportive of them, some of them cannot afford a baby sitter or they cannot afford daycare.” What will set his facility aside from a typical daycare is the affordability. He noted that mothers

will not have to pay a large amount of money each month but rather, it will be a small membership fee that is considerate to low-income earners. “Let’s say the cost for a daycare is $20,000 per month, these mothers will be members of the daycare, where they will pay a $5,000 membership fee per month instead,” he explained to this publication. Additionally, he hopes to provide an additional service of tutoring to school-aged children. “We are going to have professionals and trained people, especially tutors who will be teaching the children. You would find a babysitter who is sitting down with your child to read and do homework, [this] is what we are going

Hydromet issues alert for likely heavy rainfall THE Hydrometeorological Service (Hydromet) has reported that a tropical wave is affecting Guyana and as the wave continues its westward movement, wet conditions are likely on Monday. Rainfall events may be accompanied by thunder, lightning and wind gusts. While cloudy conditions may persist, a reduction in rainfall is expected from Tuesday, the Hydro Office said. The National Weather Watch Centre is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as required. Persons in low-lying and flood--prone areas are urged to be vigilant and cautious, as these conditions can cause sig-

nificant inundation and mudslides in hilly areas. Meanwhile, on Sunday, cloudy to overcast skies were experienced throughout Guyana. Showers of varying intensities and frequent rain were also experienced. Thundershowers were seen over northern Guyana throughout the day and over southern

Guyana during the afternoon. If you or someone you know is impacted during this rainy season, immediately contact your local authorities or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on 6007500 or 226-1114 at any time.

to be offering under the day and night care,” he said. Fortune noted that he has already reached out to the relevant authorities to acquire a plot of land in Region Four on which the facility will be built. He hopes that he can eventually be able to build similar facilities in Regions Six and 10. “We are approaching the government for land.

So, once we get that land, we will be able to start building because we have persons who have pledged to help us with building material and so forth …I also reached out to the Ministry of Human Services and the Child Care and Protection Agency.” He also hopes to provide lodging to those single mothers who may need assistance with housing for themselves and child/

YBL Chairman Kelvin Fortune children. Persons who are interested in supporting the initiative can contact Mr. Fortune on telephone number 592- 6614580.

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

Confronting the Challenges THE most recent findings by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has effectively given the Guyana Government a ‘thumps up’ for its handling of the economy, especially in the context of the emerging oil-and-gas economy. And this, despite the adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continuing negative impact on fuel prices and steep increases in the prices of other basic food items resulting from the war in Ukraine following the Russian invasion in February this year. All of this is good news coming from an international financial institution that is generally known to provide sound and unbiased commentary on the economic and financial health of countries with which it does business. And even though Guyana has over the years weaned itself off IMF assistance programmes, the current level of interest in Guyana by the IMF and other financial institutions such as the Inter-American Development Bank, the World Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank continue to remain high, due in part to developments

in oil and gas, but also to the country’s growing image as an investor-friendly nation and a rulesbased and law-governed society. According to the IMF preliminary findings, Guyana’s medium-term prospects are more favourable than ever before, with increasing oil production having the potential to transform Guyana’s economy, which could put the economy in a good position ‘to build up substantial fiscal and external buffers to absorb shocks, while at the same time addressing infrastructural gaps and human development needs. The IMF’s preliminary findings can be seen as an endorsement of the country’s economic and fiscal policies of the PPP/C administration. More importantly, it is testimony of good governance, one that is responsive to the needs of the various segments of the population, which at the same time ensuring that the economic fundamentals of the economy are consolidated and strengthened. In fact, the stewardship of the economy came in for praise by the IMF, especially in terms of public investment and policies to

sustain long-term growth and in ‘maintaining one of the region’s lowest levels of debt and progress in strengthening both the anti-corruption framework and fiscal transparency.’ From a governance perspective, the report lauded the PPP/C administration for amendments made to the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), which provides for a greater level of accountability and improved management of the country’s oil wealth. The current engagements between the IMF team and local stakeholders were part of what is known as Article Four consultations which provided a mechanism for the IMF team to access economic and financial developments and have discussions on the country’s economic and financial policies with government and central bank officials. As is to be expected, there may not be a complete convergence of thinking on policy issues, especially given the urgency to accelerate the pace and momentum of the country’s development. And while the IMF is supportive of public sector investments in key and

transformational projects, it did sound a cautionary note in terms of ramping up investment which it felt could potentially add inflationary pressures within the local economy. Guyana is today in a much better position to meet its financial obligations and to service its external debts because of greater and more sustainable revenue flows, thanks to oil and gas, but also to improved performance in the non-oil and gas sectors of the economy. The days when Guyana was unable to honour its debt obligations and when the country was declared ‘uncredit worthy’ by the IMF are long over. Guyana is today on a new path to development, one that is much more endowed in terms of resources and based on a development model within the overarching framework of a sustainable low-carbon development trajectory. The PPP/C administration, as noted by the IMF, must be commended for the implementation of several policy initiatives and interventions to build a strong and resilient economy, which has now caught the attention of the international community and its several multilateral institutions.

The huffing and puffing Norton will not succeed in wresting power through ‘kith and kin’ politics Dear Editor, THE headline captures the recurrent theme underpinning every PNC leadership, beginning from Burnham’s collaboration with foreign powers to bring down the Jagan government, using the PNC-crafted X-13 Plan that forced Dr Jagan to accede to restructured electoral systems that he was aware were inimical to his government and the nation, in a bid to save the nation from rampaging mobs that literally destroyed the city in February 12, 1962, that was precipitated by Burnham’s speech, in part: “Comrades, the fight starts now. Tomorrow at 2 o’clock in the afternoon there is a demonstration organised by the Trade Union Congress… No doubt the Riot Squad will be there. Do you still want to go? Comrades, remember that tomorrow Jagan’s

army is coming down from Cane Grove and Windsor Forest. Do you still want to go?” (Wynn Parry Commission).” This speech eventuated in the burning and looting of several businesses in Georgetown on Black Friday, February 16, 1962. The Wynn Parry Commission described Burnham thus, “The real motivating force behind Mr Burnham’s assault was a desire to assert him in public life and establish a more important and more rewarding position for him by bringing about Dr Jagan’s downfall.” Ralph Seeram wrote: “The incitement of the mobs by the opposition leaders, trade union, as well as the business class, culminated on Black Friday, February 16, 1962. The riotous mobs attacked the Electricity Plant, the Water Works, Parliament, as well as Premier Jagan’s residence as well as the businesses that supported the budget. At

the end of Black Friday, 56 businesses were destroyed, 87 damaged by fire and 66 were looted.” Almost every PNC leader, down the corridors of Guyana’s history, instead of seeking to be part of the developmental paradigm of a PPP/PPP/C administration, has instigated their supporters into violence and destructive programmes to gain power, converse to the PPP’s actions when that party is in opposition – mainly through rigged elections. PPP leaders in government on the other hand, in attempts to save the country from PNC violence and destruction, have several times acceded to conditions inimical to their own interests: a case in point is the truncation of Mrs Janet Jagan’s presidency. Every PPP/PPP/C President has reached out to PNC leaders to join in collective endeavours in nation-building and had either

been rebuffed, or good-faith agreements were honoured in the breach. This latest grandstanding by Norton is a PNC norm. However, even PNC supporters are becoming aware that their traditional leaders are failing them and are embracing educational/empowerment/wealth and job-creational programmes by the Irfaan Ali-led administration that are intended to truly provide them with tools to attain for themselves “the good life.” The huffing and puffing Norton will not succeed in wresting power through “kith and kin” politics anymore, because in Guyanese parlance, “This time nah lang time” and their supporters have emancipated themselves from mental slavery. Yours truly, Erin Northe

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

Guyana must be wary of foreign experts who pronounce with supreme arrogance on our economic affairs Dear Editor, TOM Sanzillo has been writing on Guyana’s oil-and-gas sector for quite some time now. Readers would recall that I have repeatedly challenged the so-called analysis Sanzillo published through his organisation, the IEEFA. In fact, at one point I particularly requested of the very newspaper that propagates his work to invite Sanzillo and myself on their radio programme to have a one-on-one debate concerning the weak and flawed analyses he publishes and my responses thereto. However, Sanzillo declined to participate. For ease of reference, please see the links below to my responses to Tom Sanzillo. https://guyanachronicle.com/2022/05/27/ joel-bhagwandin-responds-to-tom-sanzillo-ieefa/. https://guyanachronicle.com/2022/05/30/ tom-sanzillos-ignorance-of-guyanas-economic-context-and-reality-in-his-mediocre-analysis-part-i/. https://guyanachronicle.com/2022/05/31/ tom-sanzillos-ignorance-of-guyanas-economic-context-and-reality-in-his-mediocre-analysis/. Of recent, Sanzillo again emerged with a series of articles on Guyana’s oil-and-gas sector and I have responded to almost all of them. In the process of doing so, I became

rather curious to find out if Tom is deliberately being mischievous, or if he just simply lacks the capability to do any real financial analysis. Based on my research findings, it appears that it is a combination of both of the above– that is, he lacks the capability and secondly, he and his organisation evidently have an agenda against oil-and-gas companies. So, in the pursuit of their objective, they are producing all sorts of illogical and flawed analyses. I recently visited Tom Sanzillo’s LinkedIn profile and found out that Sanzillo has a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Politics. Now, to be abundantly clear, I am not questioning the legitimacy of Sanzillo’s qualification, but obviously the suitability of his academic training against the field he is dabbing in renders him unqualified to so do. He has absolutely no academic training in accounting, finance, economics, business or energy economics. according to his professional profile on LinkedIN, yet he masquerades as a financial expert. Whereas, clearly he has no professional, academic or technical authority and credibility in the area of finance. He is a political scientist by training and this explains his profound incomprehension to even understand my rebuttals to his work. Further, it appears that Sanzillo doesn’t even have a MBA, or a Master’s Degree or any other degree in business, because any

CNBC to feature Exxon’s operations in Guyana AMERICAN cable news channel, CNBC, is set to release a documentary on the operations of oil-and-gas giant, ExxonMobil, in Guyana. In a ‘promo’ of the documentary, CNBC Journalist, David Faber appeared in a brief clip on board one of the Floating Production Storage Offloading (FPSO) vessels off the coast of Guyana. The programme, which is set to air on June 22 on CNBC, is titled “ExxonMobil at the crossroads”, and is expected to feature an exclusive look inside the company. CNBC is an American cable business

news channel, which is a division of the NBC Universal news group. It usually covers business topics and information on financial markets, with business-themed documentaries and reality shows. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil, through its subsidiary, Esso Exploration and production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), has made several oil discoveries offshore Guyana, and has been conducting exploration activities in Guyana since 2008. The first discovery was made in 2015, from their Liza-1 well, with a significant oil find followed by discoveries in 2017, 2018, 2019 and onwards.

business qualifications covers training in finance and financial analysis – other than the more technical professional qualifications such as ACCA, CPA, CFA, or even a degree in finance. Yet, he calls himself an expert in finance. (Note: I stand corrected if Sanzillo does have other finance-related qualifications but did not make mention of same on his LinkedIN professional profile). Here are two recent examples of Tom’s flawed analyses and misrepresentation of facts for the ease of reference for the readers. 1) Tom said that every Guyanese owes ExxonMobil $9 million and that Guyana has to repay Exxon’s debt, but this is incorrect. Guyana has zero liability. Exxon’s investment is recovered from the revenue generated from the sale of crude, that is why there is a 75 per cent cost-recovery ceiling. 2) In response to the Vice-President who said in his recent press conference that Guyana will earn about US$2 billion annually at a conservative price of US$50 per barrel by 2025, Sanzillo argued that this is inaccurate because Guyana’s take for 2019 through 2019 did not amount to US$2 billion. That being said, Tom Sanzillo ignored a number of critical variables in his assertion at number 2 above. These are: i) Oil production commenced in December 2019 from Liza phase 1 at a production level of 120,000 barrels per day. ii) There is a 75 per cent cost-recovery ceiling from which the development cost or the initial capital expenditure (CAPEX) (which includes exploration and field development cost) will be recovered. Hence, during the cost-recovery period which would be relatively short (about five – seven years), Guyana’s net take will be relatively smaller versus during the post-recovery period, where the net take will increase significantly – naturally because there is a moderate-to-low operating cost. iii) Another important variable Sanzillo ignored is that production levels will increase to about one million barrels by the end of the decade; hence, naturally, Guyana’s net take will also experience substantial increases. iv) In fact, Liza phase 2 commenced production in February 2022 with a production level of 220,000 barrels per day, plus the

120,000 barrels per day from Liza phase 1, by 2024 Payara will add another 220,000 barrels per day, and the fourth development which is Yellowtail will add another 250,000 barrels’ day, thereby bringing total daily production to 810,000 barrels per day by 2025, when all four of these developments will be producing concurrently. Thus, obviously in 2019, 2020 and 2021 Guyana could not have earned this much with only Liza phase 1 producing at 120,000 barrels per day. Sanzillo disingenuously stated that the budget estimates did not show Guyana will receive US$2 billion even by 2025. However, if one were to examine the appendix of the budget 2022 speech on page 99, one would be able to confirm that the estimated inflows from profit oil and royalty by 2025 is US$1.8 billion, which is close to US$2 billion. Furthermore, at a production level of 810,000 barrels per day @ an average price of US$50, Guyana’s take in the form of royalty plus profit oil will work out to US$2 billion annually, and this is during recovery period. Thus, the Vice-President was correct when he said that Guyana will earn about US$2 billion annually, based on future estimates by 2025. It is worthy to note as well that in the post-recovery period of the CAPEX for the four developments (Liza phases 1, 2, Payara and Yellowtail), Guyana’s net take will increase to about US$5.3 billion with the assumption that the operating cost is 30 per cent of revenue, down from the 75 per cent ceiling after the CAPEX is recovered. It would appear, therefore, that Sanzillo does not care to include these variables in his analysis because it would run counter to his narrative or whatever might be his agenda against oil companies. That said, Guyanese need to be wary of these foreign experts who pronounce with supreme arrogance on our economic state of affairs, and, who are ill-informed and at best lacks a thorough understanding of the issues and subject matters they are pronouncing upon altogether. Yours faithfully, Joel Bhagwandin Financial Analyst

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

President Ali urges world leaders to ‘stop gyaffing’, fix climate issues –– says Guyana needs over $1B to protect coastline By Jared Liddell PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali has called on world leaders to end the “gyaffing” and ensure the fulfilment of the $100 billion pledge to tackle climate change which is mostly affecting developing countries, including Guyana. The President opined that more must be done by the developed world to address issues of survival in a sustainable manner, noting that this has to be done through partnerships. He made these statements on Sunday at the ‘Green Day’ walk organised by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in observance of World Environment Day. The Head of State said that as time goes on, the effects of climate change are being felt

economy from the productive sector. That is where it must come from. Because so far, what you’re seeing in the world is an unwillingness to pay the true costs of the damage that was created.” President Ali said that government has been working on policy formulation that seeks to build a country that is resilient to all threats whether it is climate, food, or water. He highlighted Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) which, he noted, is also seeking to strike a balance between the growth and development of the country. Further, the Head of State noted that while Guyana is in support of the move to more environmentally protective measures such as more solar and wind energy use and clean hydrogen, the reality is that developing

President Irfaan Ali during the ‘Green Walk’. He joined hundreds of persons for the event which started at the Umana Yana and ended in the National Park (Office of the President photo) by every country around the world, especially in developing countries. He noted that with the developed world not taking up their responsibility when it comes to climate change, countries like Guyana must take a balanced approach and explore every possible revenue-generating activity to mobilise the resources necessary for climate change adaptation and mitigation. “We have been consistently calling on the developed world to stay true to the pledges they made. We are far away from the minimal $100 billion pledge that the developed world would have made to fight climate change, adaptation, and mitigation measures. If you look at adaptation alone, just for adaptation measures in the developing economies, it will cost between $140 billion to $300 billion annually if we are to successfully meet adaptation costs alone by 2030,” President Ali said. He noted that according to recent data, the sea level is expected to rise between 10 to 21 1/2 inches in the 21st century. This, he explained, poses a direct threat to Guyana which would need to find more than $1 billion in adaptation financing for the 425 kilometres of coastline that is needed to protect the country. REAL WORK He noted that with developing countries having to pick up the “slack” left by the developed world, real work must be undertaken to finance mitigating efforts to tackle the effects of climate change. “It has to come from real work in the

countries cannot financially sustain this transition alone. “Yes, we must because it is good for the planet. It is healthy for the planet. But let’s be realistic, at the current capital costs, how many developing countries can afford this transition? And who is paying for the transition? These are questions that cannot be left unanswered. These are questions that must be answered in the policy formulation and policy mix that we must pursue. And I’m saying we must pursue.” The Head of State opined that world leaders must call out those who need to be a part of the solution but are not taking responsibility. Meanwhile, President Ali noted that his call for the developed world to act on climate change mitigation does not negate the individual responsibility of Guyanese in this fight “We here in Guyana need to change our style and our culture with the way we treat the environment. We must all understand that we need to take individual responsibility. If each one of us recommits ourselves to treating the environment in a more respectable way; if we recommit to pursuing a path in which we see littering as a sin and an injury to humanity, then we will be able to make an individual change,” he said. He noted that when we make those individual changes, we’ll be able to pursue collective action which could create a national movement that can move the international community.

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

Centre of Excellence for cancer treatment in the works –– four-pronged healthcare plan to target vulnerable persons, provide specialty care

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali said his government will be launching a four-pronged aggressive healthcare plan targeting vulnerable persons and providing specialty care. This, the President said, will be supported by a number of state investments as well as collaboration with the private sector, which includes the development of a Centre of Excellence for cancer treatment. President Ali made the pronouncement as he delivered the keynote address at the Guyana Cancer Society’s inaugural fund-raising dinner at Project Dawn in Liliendaal on Saturday night. “I’m launching a campaign in four areas very soon… and we’re going to go hard, we are going to go wide. I intend to shake things up a bit.” The President said the target areas will be persons with disabilities, mental illnesses, women and children and speciality care. On Friday, he announced that every child living with a disability will receive a cash grant of $100,000 this year, while he also highlighted other measures to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. At the fund-raising event, the President noted that there needs to be a more holistic approach to tackling health issues in Guyana. He said that Guyana has “a serious mental health issue” that must be addressed and that it must be closely linked to primary healthcare. For women and children, President Ali said that a state-of-the-art maternal and children’s hospital will be built with a capacity of 250 beds. CENTRE FOR

EXCELLENCE The President said that the government will also tackle specialty care. He said that since assuming office, the government has been analysing different areas of specialty care, whether it’s in cardiac services or dialysis and others. Currently, President Ali said, the government is working with renowned New York-based Mount Sinai Health System to incorporate the private sector into developing a “global Centre of Excellence” for cancer treatment. “That is what we are working with the private sector. And that will be part of this three-year agreement. You will have here in Guyana, the Centre of Excellence for cancer care, Centre of Excellence for maternal health and children, and then we will build up our support for all the specialised care that is needed, for example, cardiac care.” The President said that while the government will support the private sector in providing and developing speciality care, they will also need to have some “balancing” as it relates to cost. REVAMPING THE SYSTEM The Head of State added that the primary healthcare system must be revamped. He noted that the government is also working with Mount Sinai to address this. “I’m saying that we have to fix this primary healthcare system. We have to ensure that we get the new generation of people to understand what they have to change that we did wrong. To do this, it requires the education system to get involved. It

President Ali speaks at the Guyana Cancer Society’s fund-raising dinner (Office of the President photo) requires the curriculum in schools to change to reflect the new forms of thinking and the new approach— different approaches that are needed in confronting this challenge.” The President added that the government cannot and must not believe it can be the solution for every aspect of healthcare. He said that the administration however has a fundamental responsibility for primary healthcare and in “ensuring that every single citizen has access to good, affordable, first-class, primary health care and that is the first agenda of the new health care system.” SHARED APPROACH AND RESPONSIBILITY He also noted that although the government

will do all that it can to advance the country’s healthcare systems, it has to be done through a shared and joint approach where every stakeholder assumes responsibility. “We have to take shared responsibility, shared risk, and we have to be able to create a multi-stakeholder approach to fixing this problem. The private sector, the doctors, those who are affected, the families of those who are affected and young people.” At the event, the President also donated money to the organisation and proposed to “create an annual support mechanism.” “I want to thank you on behalf of the people of this country, for the work that you were doing and rest assured you have a partner in myself and the government.” (Office of the President)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

Don’t take chances with children PARENTS, it is your duty to keep children safe from abuse! You can do this by anticipating and avoiding areas and situations where dangerous incidents may occur. Sometimes danger arises in the very place where adults believe children are safe. Therefore, nothing should be taken for granted; parents need to be astute, alert and aware of who interacts with their children and for which purpose. It wasn’t until a young boy reached manhood that he found the courage to tell his parents about the sexual abuse he suffered during his teenage

years. After a short illness, the perpetrator succumbed but was praised by colleagues and those who knew him as a good and respectable person. However, the young man had details to the contrary. During his adolescence, the boy’s parents were in awe of his music teacher, who enjoyed the family’s friendship and occasional hospitality. As a trusted community member, everyone respected and spoke highly of the maestro within their midst and his effective teaching methods. They sent their son to his studio for weekly lessons and were happy with the progress he made – oblivious

to the fact that the teacher was building a ‘special’ friendship with their naïve and vulnerable son. In adulthood, when the boy, who is now a man, opened up to them, explaining that the teacher first won his trust and then, over time, lured him into a seedy world of sexual transgression. It was hard for them to accept, and much lamentation and sleepless nights followed for the family as they came to grips with the truth. It was difficult for their son to bring up the past, knowing that nothing could alter it, and painful for him to relive the memories in his parents’ presence. But

he was resilient and felt it was right to share the facts with his loved ones. After the initial shock wore off, and tears, embraces of sorrow and reassurance subsided, his parents asked why he did not say anything when the abuse first happened. The son explained that he did not know it was abuse; his young mind trusted the teacher entirely. He believed when the teacher told him their friendship was unique. The boy in him could not pinpoint when the sordid relationship became physical because it was subtle and calculated. However, he recalled his despair and misery as a misfit adolescent. There was no one to turn to when he needed a friend to rely upon and trust – or someone he could relate to; in whom he could confide. His father was heartbroken; you had me, he sobbed, I was always there for you. Although his parents were around, they did not recognise the stages of his development and the changing roles they should play therein. They lost connection with his growing, fertile mind - his fears, aspirations, desires, anxieties, problems and concerns, and the psychological disconnect became mutual. The son could see the innocence surrounding his teenage sexuality. The guidance necessary to

make informed choices was not available to him. He thought the ritual with his music teacher was acceptable conduct until a fellow student complained about excessive touching. In time, whispers and rumours were made, then quickly hushed and dispelled over the years to uphold the community. The parents continued to examine where they might have gone wrong, searching for any past red flags they overlooked, but could not find any pertinent signs. Their son explained that he did not blame them; they did the best they could with their knowledge. Although in their ignorance, they were oblivious to the thought of a respected person being a sexual fiend. Their son told them he classed himself as one of the lucky ones. His research, qualifications and role as a senior social worker helped him analyse his childhood and come to terms with the exploitation that befell him - he refused to live in the past. Where he is now and where he will aspire is all that matters. His career is his saving grace; he helps youngsters to find themselves daily and recognise their strengths and purposes. He also supports parents in reconnecting with their children. Parents cannot be around their children 24/7 (school, clubs, parties,

outings and other social events) - they have no choice but to rely on the sensible conduct and the acceptable behaviour they teach at home to safeguard their offspring from harm. Without proper guidance, supervision and attention from caring adults, children’s minds grow curious. They may take advice from their peers, learn sleazy behaviour from the wrong people or on the internet- growing children need direction from trustworthy adults. Children behave differently around their peers and when trying to impress others. But positive mannerisms and customs learnt at home will remain at the core of their decision-making and help them make informed choices; rather than feel pressured by their friends or unforeseen tense situations. Adults need to explain to Tweens (10- 13 years old) the changes to their bodies during puberty. During this transition, issues relating to sexuality, abstinence, contraception and proper conduct are equally poignant factors to discuss in a child-appropriate fashion. Parents must remember to address their children’s emotional, physical and psychological health as the need arises by asking questions, taking an interest and being aware of their social and moral development. Children are multi-dimensional and not always as parents surmise. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail. com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6 , 2022

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and Permanent Secretary Mae Toussaint Jr Thomas attended the Guyana Police Force Gymkhana 2022 at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground, West Coast Demerara on Sunday. Also in attendance were government ministers, Susan Rodrigues and Pauline Sukhai; Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, and other senior and junior officers and ranks of the Guyana Police Force (Ministry of Home Affairs photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

CDB youth forum to tackle climate change, youth employability

WITH the Caribbean being both one of the most climate vulnerable regions in the world and a region with some of the highest rates of youth unemployment globally, these issues pose two of the biggest challenges to the region’s future. This is the context for the upcoming youth forum, Caribbean Youth for Innovation and Resilience (Youth FIRE) which will take place on Tuesday, June 7 as the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) 52nd Annual Meeting continues, a release from the bank said. The forum will consist of two panel discussions,

each honing in on the issues which were identified by a consultative group of Caribbean youth and youth leaders as being among the most pressing concerns faced by young people across the region. The first panel, Climate Change and Health will take a deep dive into the lived reality of Caribbean youth facing down the impacts of climate change, with a specific focus on the impacts to their physical and psychosocial health. It will also present innovative, inclusive solutions that can be scaled up across the region to support young people af-

fected by climate change. Panelists for the session will be Dr Quacy Grant, a medical doctor and President of the Guyana National Youth Council; Jamilla Sealy of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network and Dr Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre. The session will be moderated by Dr Keron Niles, Lecturer, Institute of International Relations at the University of the West Indies and the MC will be Renee Atwell, Dean of the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors Corps.

Additional perspective will come from interventions by Dr Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, a clinical psychologist and climate change negotiator, Onika Benn, the release noted. The second panel, Youth Employability: Skills for 21st Century Jobs, will address how youth are engaged to secure a future of work, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and its attendant effects on the labour market and business in the region. The discussion will highlight youth who are creating employment opportunities with innovative ideas within tradi-

tional, new and emerging sectors, highlighting the skills necessary for pivoting post COVID-19 and will also highlight the particular challenges and barriers to employment and entrepreneurship faced by disadvantaged groups. Panelists will be Keithlin Caroo, Executive Director at Helen’s Daughters; Nicholas Kee, Community Lead of Developers Circle and Malcolm Wills, Cofounder and Manager of Dynamic Enterprise. The session will be modera t e d b y Tr a c y - A n n Ramkissoon, a banker and business continu-

ity associate and the MC will be Kendell Vincent, Chairman of the Caribbean Regional Youth Council. Further insight will come via interventions from entrepreneur and assistant financial controller, Ariella Missick; Obrina Wickham, a student and youth representative and Katrina Reece-Burley, an advocate for the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities. The seminar will be streamed live on CDB’s Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube platforms, starting at 10:00 am (AST), the release noted.

WHILE urging persons not to limit themselves, President of the Humanitarian Mission Guyana Inc, Suresh Sugrim, has emphasised the importance of learning a skill in our ever-changing world. He was, at the time, speaking at a graduation exercise held for 75 males and females who had completed courses in electrical installation, cooking, sewing, cake decoration, information technology, and cosmetology inclusive of make-up, hair styling and nail designing. The graduation exercise was held in the auditorium

of the University of Guyana’s Tain, East Berbice-Corentyne campus on May 27. Sugrim, in his remarks, said that life skills are important and programmes offered will not only serve to improve the lives of the graduates but they will have a better bargaining power and the ability to move from employee to employer. He added that it was not an easy journey but the participants persevered and they can now use their new skills to earn an extra dollar if necessary. Meanwhile, in delivering the keynote address to the

graduates, most of whom were females, Region Six Commander, Boodnarine Persaud, spoke extensively about domestic violence - the signs to look out for and steps that can be taken if someone is being abused. He added that in Berbice, the number of domestic violence cases is of concern and persons should know that help is available. The Commander noted that the police are working to ensure that the number of domestic violence cases decreases and that it is ultimately eliminated from society. He said it is important to

raise awareness on domestic violence so that “we can save victims and make positive changes in society.” “Know your rights. Know where you could go to seek help. There is help,” he stressed. Commander Boodnarine also urged the graduates to keep challenging themselves so as to further enhance their skills. “Learning does not stop here; continue to always think higher,” he said. Many of the graduates said that their skills have definitely improved and will be put to productive use.

Zita Amerally, who retired after 26 years of teaching, graduated as the best student in the basic level sewing class. Amerally said she has had a passion for sewing for quite some time but never had the opportunity to pursue this dream. She recalled seeing an ad on social media that was offering a sewing course. She said she decided to apply so as to occupy her time and learn a skill. Amerally told the gathering that it was a great decision and one that she does not regret. She added that she plans to move on to the advanced course to strengthen her new skill. She also expressed gratitude to the Humanitarian Mission and the tutor who was very patient and instrumental in her being able to achieve her goal. Another graduate, Shevon Lindie, who is a nurse attached to the New Amsterdam Hospital, also completed the sewing course. She plans to challenge herself by pursuing the advanced sewing course. She can now design garments and take measurements for various outfits. She is elated that she

A cake done by the cake decorating class has graduated and plans to start designing her own clothing and assist family members and friends with their sewing needs. She is considering opening a sewing shop. Lindie encouraged the employed and unemployed to pursue courses in any area of their choosing as this will enhance skills and make their life even better. Further, the mission is collaborating with the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) to offer courses in electrical installation, mechanics, welding and fabrication and AC and refrigeration. Applications for these courses are now open and the classes are expected to commence shortly.

75 Berbicians equipped with skills to start businesses, gain employment

Some of the graduates, the tutors and Region Six Commander, Boodnarine Persaud

Guyana CHRONICLE monday june 6, 2022

Strategic plan developed for brackish-water shrimp production

WITH the growing demand for farm-raised shrimp across the world, the Agriculture Ministry and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) presented a proposed strategy to enhance the production of brackish-water shrimp to several stakeholders in Region Six. At a workshop held at the St Francis Community Centre, Port Mourant, Berbice, last Thursday, Denis David, a fisheries officer attached to the ministry told shrimp farmers that the proposed strategy will see the establishment of several action plans geared towards

years to conduct a study and gather information for the piloting and implementation of a strategy to enhance shrimp production in Guyana and several other Caribbean states. David said stakeholders are critical players in establishing and implementing the strategies that have been developed, hence, they have been participants in every aspect of developing the proposed strategy. “We had them in groups, so that we can have a little bit more feedback on a one-to-one basis from the different actors and from the feedback that they had given to us, we’re positive

“The next step is to develop a business plan, followed by the pilot project, and the pilot project is where most of the activity is going to be happening and that is where the farmers themselves can get involved. So, that’s basically the future plans,” he said. The enhancement strategy is anticipated to be piloted by March 2023. Meanwhile, in expressing his excitement for the interest shown in the industry, Balwant Singh, a shrimp farmer who recently started production, told this newspaper that he was pleased to see the interest shown in the industry and is excited for

FAO programme assistant, Jefferson Jaikisson, gives an overview of the enhancement strategy to the shrimp farmers the enhanced production and quality of brackish-water shrimp in Guyana. “So, today’s [last Thursday] event was the presenting of the draft upgrading strategy for the brackish-water shrimp industry. And this is basically where we would have [sic] invited a number of stakeholders and value-chain actors, because the exercise is about the value chain, the brackish-water value chain and so what we did was have the input of the different actors,” he said. In an effort to boost productivity, the FAO has partnered with the Government of Guyana over the last two

that the strategy is one that they accept.” The strategy is divided into four parts to focus on the promotion of an intensive model of farming, the expansion of the industry through multi-species diversification, the fostering of partnerships to strengthen trade and marketing, and the strengthening of a support and enabling environment for the best value chain. David noted that now that the fisherfolk and other stakeholders have been engaged, the next step is to develop a business plan and work towards the piloting of the enhancement strategy.

what the future has in store. “This is a relief for me because we are going to get some good things in the future and I’m just an initial starter in this sector,” Singh said, adding: “I haven’t reaped anything as yet but what is going on here with this [workshop] I feel like this industry is going to be successful.” Another shrimp farmer, Juliet Bedesi, expressed similar sentiments stating that she has been able to take away some valuable information from the workshop and is also excited for the plans billed for the industry.

Fisheries officer Denis David, engages Region Six shrimp farmers (Carl Croker photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

Feedback from stakeholders important - says Minister Manickchand to transform education system

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6 , 2022

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand THE Ministry of Education continued its national consultation exercise at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Friday, engaging persons from various organisations and government agencies. The consultations which first began on Tuesday last are being held to determine short, medium, and long-term measures to provide quality education to all learners. The consultations are part of a series going on around the world as countries, particularly member states of the United Nations, discuss recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and how the sector can be reimagined generally. The consultation exercise, which is being held across the country, is expected to address activities in five critical areas: inclusive, equitable, safe and healthy schools; learning and skills for life, work and sustainable development; teachers, teaching and the teaching profession; digital learning and transformation; and financing of education On Tuesday, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand met with representatives from the National Interim Parent Teacher Association body, while on Thursday, she engaged migrant and re-migrant parents and children of Region Three at the Leonora Secondary School. Manickchand has continued to emphasise to participants the importance of the consultation exercise in the

ministry crafting a way forward for the education sector. Speaking on Friday at ACCC, Minister Manickchand underscored that the pandemic has affected the sector tremendously. She said that COVID-19 taught the world that no education system was resilient enough to withstand the impact of such a pandemic. “The most developed countries found themselves unprepared to move into any kind of learning effectively,” Minister Manickchand noted, according to a statement issued by the ministry. According to the statement, Minister Manickchand said that the intention is to hear from the representatives from an institutional standpoint, as well as their individual perspectives. Also commenting on the consultation exercise, Director of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), Quenita Walrond-Lewis, noted that the five critical areas the consultation is focusing on are framed around the five pillars of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 20212025. Chief Education Officer Dr Marcel Hutson said that innovation and creativity must be brought sharply into focus if the sector is to be transformed. He added that all stakeholders must work as a team in order to achieve the transformation necessary for the sector to move forward. He said that the concept of synergy cannot be overlooked.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6 , 2022

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6 , 2022

Pooran satisfied with West Indies ODI series win over Netherlands

CMC – West Indies whiteball captain, Nicholas Pooran, said he was generally satisfied with the way his side handled their Oneday International series

up the series with a 20-run win on Saturday at the same venue. “I felt it was a really good (series) for us,” Pooran said in an interview with

game. “Bowling out teams is obviously very important. Getting wickets with the new ball and improving on our ‘death bowling’…

File photo: Kyle Mayers made a match-winning century with eight fours and seven sixes (Getty Images) against the Netherlands. The Windies completed a clean sweep of the ODI series after they won the first ODI by seven wickets last Tuesday at the VRA Ground, where they won the second ODI by five wickets two days later before wrapping

CWI Media. “It was a new team and I felt the we bonded really good. “We spoke about learning on the job and taking this opportunity… We set goals before this tour, of batting our 50 overs and we achieved that in the last

“I think we improved in our ‘death bowling’ in the last two games – but we are still asking our bowlers to get wickets with the new ball… Well done this series, looking forward to the next one.” We s t I n d i e s h e a d e d

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday June 06, 2022) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 2256158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Jos Butler-45 sixes (RR) (2) Riyan Parag-17 catches (RR) Today’s Quiz: (1) Where and when did the WI and Bangladesh first contest a Test match against each other? (2) Who were the captains involved? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

off on Sunday to Pakistan, where they will face the hosts in another series of three ODIs, and Pooran hoped his teammates could gain confidence from the series victory against the Netherlands and improve on the performance

against much stronger opposition. “It’s all about trust for us as a team,” he said. “… It was good to see players taking their opportunity doing what was required for the team just to get that ‘W’

(win) for us.” The first ODI against Pakistan is on Wednesday, the second is on Friday, and the series ends next Sunday with all matches to be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

Wales qualify for first world cup since 1958 (BBC) - Wales overcame another monumental effort from Ukraine to qualify for their first World Cup since 1958 on a night of high emotion and drama in Cardiff. Having beaten Scotland in an emotionally draining semi-final four days earlier, the Ukrainians - amid the backdrop of their country being embroiled in war with Russia - were deeply impressive once again

ening Cardiff City Stadium spoke of how cathartic it is for this footballing nation to rid itself of its 64-year World Cup drought. Now Wales can finally look forward to being a part of football’s greatest competition in November, where England, the United States and Iran await in their group in Qatar. As for this Ukrainian team, playing to the backdrop of Russia’s invasion

But these are different times. This is Wales’ golden era, in which their players are not burdened by that past. Qualifying for Euro 2016 ended their 58-year wait for a major tournament and reaching a first semi-final in France took Welsh football to new heights. Then they followed that success by qualifying for Euro 2020 - but a World

Ukraine had good chances to score but could not quite find the breakthrough but fell just short in their attempt to reach only a second World Cup in their history. Instead, it was Wales who achieved that feat at a delirious Cardiff City Stadium. Their winning goal came against the run of play as Gareth Bale’s firsthalf free-kick was inadvertently headed in by Ukraine captain, Andriy Yarmolenko, a particularly cruel way for the visitors to concede having dominated before then. Both teams got tired but threw players forward in a chaotic second half, with Bale wasting a golden opportunity and substitute Brennan Johnson hitting the post for Wales. Ukraine also had several chances to equalise but were repelled by the phenomenal goalkeeping of Wayne Hennessey and defending of Ben Davies. This was not a vintage Welsh performance but they played with great resolve, and the scenes of celebration inside a deaf-

of their homeland, they have been an inspiration. They were cheered on in Cardiff by their passionate supporters, including 100 refugees who were given tickets for free by the Football Association of Wales, while home fans showed their appreciation for the away side with warm applause before kick-off. However, Wales’ mantra in the build-up to this game - as cold as it may have sounded - was that they had to take the emotion out of this occasion and temporarily put their compassion to one side. And they did it to realise their own, long-held dream. Wales’ 64-year wait finally over Since their only other World Cup appearance in 1958, Welsh football history has been littered with tales of near misses. From Scotland in 1977 and 1985 to Romania in 1993, Wales have stood on the brink of history before - only to stumble at the final hurdle.

Cup is another level again. And while this Wales side might not be shackled by the memories of previous failures, Robert Page’s men were never going to make it easy for themselves. Wales started in a panic, hurrying into tackles and picking up yellow cards for Joe Allen and Daniel James inside two minutes as Ukraine controlled the early exchanges. The visitors dominated possession and forced Hennessey into a flurry of early saves, while Oleksandr Zinchenko had a goal disallowed after shooting from a free-kick taken too quickly. While Ukraine’s noisy blue and yellow contingent enjoyed their team’s vibrant start, a sense of unease spread through the home fans at Cardiff City Stadium. Their anxiety increased as Zinchenko, orchestrating matters artfully in midfield, called Hennessey into action yet again with a firm left-footed shot from long range.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6 , 2022

Nadal reclaims French open crown

(BBC) - Rafael Nadal reclaimed his crown as the king of the French Open, winning a record-extending 14th title by beating Norway’s Casper Ruud in straight sets. Spain’s Nadal, 36, won 6-3 6-3 6-0 against eighth seed Ruud to also extend his record number of Grand Slam men’s singles titles to 22. He moves two ahead of his great rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. Nadal, who lost to Djokovic in the semi-finals last year, has won 112 of his 115 matches on the Paris clay. After also winning the Australian Open in January, Nadal has claimed back-to-back major titles for the first time since 2010 - when he won the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in a row. Two days after his 36th birthday, Nadal becomes the oldest French Open men’s singles champion and surpasses fellow Spaniard, Andres Gimeno, who won aged 34 in

Rafael Nadal has won back-to-back major titles for the first time since 2010 1972. The left-hander dropped his racquet to the court in amazement after taking his second match point to win in two hours and 18 minutes. Nadal’s achievements are even more impressive in the context of the physical issues that have hampered him in recent times. At the end of last year, the former world number one thought he would have to retire because of a

chronic foot problem and was troubled by the issue at the Italian Open earlier this month. A stress fracture of the rib also caused him to miss two months of the season shortly after his 21st major win at the Australian Open. “It takes a lot of energy to keep going. I want to say ‘merci, merci beaucoup’,” Nadal said after lifting the Coupe des Mousquetaires. “I don’t know what

will happen in the future but I will keep fighting to keep going.” Nadal, far from best, but still has too much quality Ruud, 23, was making his debut in a Grand Slam final and facing Nadal for the first time in a professional match. While fifth seed Nadal was far from his best, he had enough nous and quality to clinically see off his younger opponent. A miscue from Ruud

in the first point of the match perhaps indicated his nerves, but he could do little to prevent Nadal taking his serve for a 2-0 lead with a vicious forehand winner. Nadal’s serve has been far from impenetrable and he was broken in the next game after two double faults, which were perhaps indicative of the discomfort he has been feeling with his long-standing foot problem. But he re-established his lead in the fourth game when Ruud’s groundstrokes - a wide backhand, even wider forehand and a poor contact - let him down. Nadal, often targeting his opponent’s backhand and then forcing him into mistakes on his forehand, held his serve to take the opening set in 48 minutes. Nadal had won 100 of the 101 previous matches at Roland Garros where he had won the opening set, with last year’s semi-final defeat by Djokovic being the only exception. More pressure came on the Ruud serve in

the opening game of the second set, saving three break points to hold. That allowed him to then move 3-1 ahead when Nadal produced a terrible service game, although Ruud brilliantly constructed a point for 0-40, and hit a double fault on the first break point. Nadal instantly broke back, patiently pummelling Ruud on the baseline and punching the air when a forehand went long. Like in the first set, Ruud could not follow up a break with a hold and lost his serve again for 4-3 when a lob went long. After saving three set points, he produced a double fault on the fourth to hand over a two-set lead. Nobody had ever beaten Nadal at Roland Garros from that position in 90 attempts, with few even taking him to a fourth. That never looked likely with Ruud’s confidence dropping further and Nadal ruthlessly wrapping up the third set in just 30 minutes.

Ravens ‘defang’ Kobras to win Andrew Ifill Memorial Tournament Ryan Stephney was in showtime mode at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Sunday evening, as he poured in a gamehigh 21 points to help Ravens clinch the inaugural Andrew Ifill Memorial Knockout tournament. It was the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) first tournament of the year and Ravens outplayed the Kobras to win 60 – 53 Infront of a fair-sized crowd at the country’s premier indoor facility. After getting off to a slow start and being outscored 26 – 13 by Kobras in the first quarter, Ravens, behind Stephney and Tim-

othy Thompson, clawed their way back in the game and outscored their opponents 6 – 15 in the second stanza, but still trailed 32 – 28 at the half. Though holding Kobras to single digits (9) in the penultimate period, Ravens entered the fourth with the score level on 41. With Stephney leading the charge, Ravens pulled a took-control mid-way into the final quarter and ‘flew home’ with the trophy. Thompson finished the night with 18 points and critical rebounding, while Dominic Vincente netted 12. Jason Squires and Car-

los Edwards both scored 16 for the Kobras, with eight coming from Trevor Smith and seven from Jermaine Slatter. Meanwhile, in the third-place game, Colts, Andrew Ifill’s local club, trampled Pacesetters 72 – 48 to take home the trophy. The tournament marked the return of competitive action for clubs in the GABA, and according to President Jermaine Slatter, it was only fitting that they bounce their season off in memory of Andrew Ifill, one the best to ever suit up for Guyana. He died in October of 2019.

President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), Michael Singh, presenting the winner’s trophy to Ravens following their victory over Kobras in the finals of the Andrew Ifill Memorial tournament

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

‘Sensational Omari’ pilots Guyana to win against Montserrat - Golden Jaguars to battle Bermuda tomorrow at Leonora

By Rawle Toney Omari Glasgow was sensational for the Golden Jaguars, scoring both goals in Guyana’s 2 – 1 comefrom-behind win against Montserrat on Sunday evening in the Dominican Republic. It was the start of Coach

Jamaal Shabazz’ CONCACAF Nations League campaign and the Trinidadian couldn’t have asked for a better performance from the country’s most promising forward. The 18-year-old Glasgow, who moved from Fruta Conquerors to Major League Soccer (MLS) side

Goalkeeper Quillan Roberts had an exceptional night, making some critical save for Guyana

Chicago Fire, delivered in the second half to help give Guyana three points, which places them on top of Group B in League B of the CONCACAF tournament. Guyana was drawn alongside Bermuda, Montserrat and Haiti in the competition. Shabazz started with Quillan Roberts in goal, while his ‘back four’ featured UK-based players Matthew Briggs, Jaylen Jones, Captain Sam Cox and Western Tigers defender, Quincy ‘German’ Adams. Bournemouth FC talent, Nathan Moriah-Welsh and veteran Neil Danns, along with Daniel Wilson controlled the middle third, while Frenchman Torrel Ondaan, Trayon Bobb and Glasgow provided the attack. Similar to Guyana, the ‘Emerald Boys’ are made of players from the leagues across England’s football pyramid. Former West Ham and Arsenal Academy player, Adrian Clifton, scored in the 21st minute to give Montserrat the lead in a first half. Guyana looked flat as they try to maintain an order from Coach Shabazz, resulting in them trailing a goal to nil. In fact, if it weren’t for Roberts’ exceptional work between the uprights and some timely defensive

plays from Jones, Adams and Briggs at the back, the Golden Jaguars could’ve been down by at least three goals. However, upon resumption, Guyana displayed a level of football that left the Emerald Boys completely dumfounded. Brackley Town FC forward, Tre Midford, replaced Ondaan in the 60th minute and he made an immediate impact on the game. Glasgow, playing a little deeper than usual, was brought down approximately 30 yards from goal. The Chicago Fire teen would take his own free-kick and timed his scorcher to perfection. Kymani Nelson, who plays for Enfield Town FC in the UK, had no chance of stopping Glasgow’s rocket-like shot that curled around the Montserrat wall and made its way to the top right corner of the goal. The game was levelled 1 – 1. In the 71st minute, Glasgow received a throughball from Midford in the right side of the ‘18’ and Nelson, once again, couldn’t have put his hands on the powerful right-footed volley that beat him at near post. That strike turned out to be the game-winner for Guyana. The Golden Jaguars re-

SENSATIONAL OMARI! Guyana’s Omari Glasgow in celebration mode after scoring his second goal in Guyana’s 2 – 1 win over Montserrat in the CONCACAF Nations League turned home to host Bermuda tomorrow at the National Track and Field Centre from 16:00hrs, followed by a clash against Haiti on June 11 at the same venue and time. The team will return to the Dominican Republic on June 14 for their away game against the Haitians. Guyana will afterwards

travel to Hamilton on March 25, 2023, to face Bermuda. Shabazz and his troops will close their participation in the second edition of the Nations League with a home game against Montserrat on March 28, 2023. According to CONCACAF, the Nations League will serve as the qualifier for the 2023 Gold Cup.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6 , 2022

Root saves the day - Notches up 10,000 test runs

(ESPNCRICINFO) - After three madcap days to begin England’s new era of Test cricket under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, there was an air of serenity around their march to victory on the fourth morning at Lord’s. Joe Root provided the quality and the clarity to cut through the gloom, bringing up his hundred and 10,000 runs in Test cricket with the same shot, as New Zealand’s challenge which had seemed sunk the moment they were 45 for 7 on day one - finally fell away. Root’s century, remarkably his first in the fourth innings of a Test, formed the bulwark of a chase of 277 that had been in trouble at 69 for 4 but became increasingly comfortable as the former captain took control following Stokes’ fortune-favoured fifty on the third evening. He was ably supported by Ben Foakes during an unbroken century stand that never gave New Zealand a sniff; Foakes finished on 32 not out, having played

his most important innings since a century on debut during a Man of the Series performance in Sri Lanka four years ago. That the result remained in the balance, after England had reached 59 without loss in reply to New Zealand’s first-innings 132, was testament to the fighting qualities shown by Kane Williamson’s side. Having limited England to a nine-run lead, they had the look of favourites after the 195run stand between Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell - but Stuart Broad inspired another turnaround and the game continued to ebb and flow until Root’s decisive contribution. He finished the job himself with three fours in an over from Tim Southee, walking off to a standing ovation, as well as handshakes from the opposition. This was his 26th Test hundred, his third of the year already, and his first back in the ranks. Life under the new regime hasn’t changed a jot for Root. Despite a murky morning greeting those arriving

at Lord’s, it was soon clear that New Zealand had their work cut out for them. The juice that contributed to 23 wickets falling across the first four sessions of the Test had long since dissipated, and they began the day with a ball that was 65 overs old. Root shuffled down to Southee’s first delivery, pushing hard but settling for one after flicking off his pads, as England looked to start positively. The prospect of the second new ball coming around an hour into the day encouraged the venturesome approach. After Stokes’ frenetic counter shifted the balance on the third afternoon, Root had ticked up almost imperceptibly through the gears - from 34 off 89 at the point when England lost their fifth wicket, he scored at exactly a run a ball to finish on 115 from 170. There was greater intent about Foakes, too. Kyle Jamieson, who threatened to decide the contest single-handedly on Saturday, returned to the attack in the third

Joe Root reached his century and 10,000 runs in Test cricket as England inched closer (Getty Images) over, having shifted back of “Rooooooooooot!” tending to a full refund around to the Nursery from around the ground. for the crowd - and before End. His second ball His ninth hundred since the weather could close was driven confidently the start of 2021 continued in to delay the inevitable, back through mid-on by a purple run of batting, as putting England 1-0 up in Foakes, only a diving stop he became the 14th man the three-match series. from Southee preventing overall to 10,000 in Tests, Defeat for New Zeafour, and the wicketkeeper and the second English- land was their first further settled England man after Alastair Cook. against England in Tests nerves a couple of overs By that point, any since the 2015 result later by threading the first tension about England’s on the same ground boundary of the morning ability to knock off the a match that was sigthrough backward point. runs had eased. William- nificant for Stokes as Jamieson was punched son gamely made several a player in a way that for straight fours by both attempts to get the ball he will hope this one batters, as Root moved changed, but the break- is for his captaincy. It into the 90s. A chop past through that would have also ended a run of nine his stumps off Southee given New Zealand a Tests without a victomoved him within sight, crack at the home side’s ry for England, as the before a clip through mid- lengthy tail was not forth- Stokes-McCullum axis wicket two overs later coming, and the winning hit the ground running; brought him a comfortable runs came inside 14 overs even if it was more of a two and a loud rendition - Root’s beneficence ex- stroll for Root.

‘Sensational Omari’ pilots Guyana to win against Montserrat

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 6, 2022

SEE PAGE

Goalkeeper Quillan Roberts had an exceptional night, making some critical save for Guyana

SENSATIONAL OMARI! Guyana’s Omari Glasgow in celebration mode after scoring his second goal in Guyana’s 2 – 1 win over Montserrat in the CONCACAF Nations League

Ravens ‘defang’ Kobras to win Andrew Ifill Memorial Tournament SEE PAGE

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