Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_17_04_2022

17th April, 2022

free Inside No.106695

Rupununi can be among world’s ‘most powerful’ tourism products - Pres. Ali 03 PAGE

Legal luminary Stanley Moore awarded for 50 years of service 16 PAGE

Action at the Rupununi Rodeo (Photos: Vishani Ragobeer)

Uitvlugt Estate workers to get temporary 05 employment PAGE

Police outposts 22 Cousins shot for Mandela Ave. during fracas to Eccles roadway at Sophia 15 PAGE

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sunday CHRONICLE april 17, 2022

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Rupununi can be among world’s ‘most powerful’ tourism products - says President Ali

GUYANA’S Rupununi is one of the country’s most soughtafter tourism destinations and if Guyana can successfully twin this tourism product with that of Northern Brazil, the Rupununi can be among the world’s most powerful tourism destinations.

This is according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who provided brief remarks at the opening of Guyana’s first regional tourism information centre.

The centre was established in Lethem by Visit Rupununi, a tourism body that represents over 70 enterprises across the tourism value chain in the Rupununi. It is located just across from the town’s airstrip, strategically positioned to capture travellers.

President Ali, who com-

strategic geographic location at the northern Brazilian border, President Ali said that efforts must be made to build a common tourism product with Brazil.

“Once we are able to incorporate (Brazil), we will have one of the most powerful tourism products in the world,” President Ali said.

Melanie McTurk, the President of Visit Rupununi, said that tourism players in the region are acutely aware of the value of the space they live and work in.

“The Rupununi sits as the gateway to Brazil [and] with development of Linden to Lethem Road, Visit Rupununi is poised to help make people of the Rupununi part and parcel of the region’s development,” McTurk said at the centre’s opening.

Meanwhile, after a twoyear hiatus prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rupununi Rodeo returned on Saturday, bringing together scores of people but not without calls for a greater level of investment to expand this unique tourism product.

The Rupununi rodeo features vaqueros (or cowboys and cowgirls, as they are more commonly known) from across Region Nine. For two days, usually at the Easter weekend, hundreds of people gather to witness individuals showcase various skills at taming calves, bulls and horses.

The rodeo also offers residents there, who are primarily Indigenous People, the opportunity to showcase the best of their food, craft and culture.

President Dr Irfaan Ali and First Lady Mrs Arya Ali at the opening of the first regional tourism information centre (Photo: Office of the President) missioned the centre on Saturday, emphasised the value of Rupununi in Guyana’s overall ecotourism brand - which has been rated as the top ecotourism destination in the world.

“Each one of us must become an ambassador for tourism and there is no better place than here in our Rupununi.

“We must never ever underestimate the value we bring to the world,” the President emphasised.

The President explained that efforts are being made to harness Guyana’s environmental and ecological services to push the country’s sustainable development. This will be pursued through the revised Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

Because of the Rupununi’s

And this tourism centre, she explained, will serve as the central hub for tourism opportunities in the region, business development support for all the regional tourism players and marketing opportunities. All of these features, she posited, will be able to push the ‘Visit Rupununi’ brand.

McTurk also noted that it was President Dr. Irfaan Ali who, last year, challenged the tourism body to establish this centre.

The Rupununi is located in the southwest region of Guyana; it is best known for sprawling savannahs, picturesque mountains and abundant biodiversity.

RODEO BACK IN ACTION

Region Nine’s Vice Chairman, Bertie Xavier said that the return of the rodeo has brought with it a “spirit of reunion and unity” within the region, one that also indicates that economic activity in the region is slowly being revitalised.

It was President Ali, in brief remarks, who spoke about the region’s economic development and touted the possibility of expanding it into one of the Caribbean’s premier tourism events. “(The rodeo) can stand sideby-side with the best of cricket and the best of racing in the region,” President Ali declared at the Lethem rodeo ground on Saturday.

What is needed, the President said, is a greater level of investment to expand the annual

President Dr Irfaan Ali holds his son as he speaks at the opening of the first regional tourism information centre (Photo: Office of the President) activity.

“Building a product like this requires investment, making Rupununi and rodeo a staple product requires investment,” the President said emphatically.

Already, he said that the government is investing in the necessary infrastructural works such as paving the Linden to Mabura road, and later, the Mabura to Lethem link. The journey to Lethem, via this Linden to Mabura road, currently takes more than 12 hours but parts of the road are worn down.

Adding to the President’s remarks was the Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond, who said that the return of the rodeo saw a greater demand for accommodation that existing hotels and guesthouses could not have accommodated.

As such, she called on investors to invest in more accommodation spaces in the region, particularly amid efforts to boost the marketing of the Rupununi Rodeo across the Caribbean and even internationally.

Aside from expanding the marketing, Minister Walrond also said that the government has been investing in training more Indigenous People in the region in hospitality skills to prepare them for the forthcoming uptake in tourism activity in the region.

Meanwhile, President Ali also donated $1 million to the Rupununi Rodeo committee and promised continuous support in cash and kind on an annual basis.

(Republished from the News Room)

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Children in Moco Moco, Kumu villages receive kites

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Kites distributed in Tabatinga, surrounding communities

CHILDREN of Tabatinga and surrounding communities in Lethem, Region Nine, were, on Saturday, gifted kites and treated to the traditional cross buns which are synonymous DIVISIONAL commander of Region Nine, Superintendent Raphael Rose and his team recently distributed

kites to children in Moco Moco and Kumu Villages.

Police Headquarters noted that a total of 80 kites were

with the Easter Season,

by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal.

Also joining the exercise, which was held at the Tabatinga Community Centre Ground,

were Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Anand Persaud; Deputy Mayor, Debra King and Prime Minister’s Representative, Claire Singh.

distributed. The children were excited and expressed ‘thanks’ to the police team for its generous gesture.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal distributes kites to children in Tabatinga

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Uitvlugt Estate workers to get temporary employment until repairs completed

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has reassured workers of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) that the government will ensure they stay employed until mechanical issues are remedied at the Uitvlugt Estate on the West Coast of Demerara.

The estate’s grinding operations have been affected for a number of weeks, resulting in the setback.

During a meeting held with hundreds of workers at the Uitvlugt Community Centre on Friday, the President announced that the estate would find alternative work for six days per week on a short-term basis for the sugar workers.

“Having listened to management, I am convinced that there’s enough work for planting, weeding, chemical

President Dr Irfaan Ali interacts with sugar workers of the Uitvlugt Estate (Office of the President photo) spraying, cleaning of the side-line to get you at least six days per week now, and I’ve instructed that this be implemented immediately.”

The President said that the government wants to see the sugar workers, like all other Guyanese, succeed.

“You have a government who understands your pain;

you have a government who is committed to working with you and helping you.

As we said when we came back, we are here to ensure that the sugar sector succeeds and ensure that we keep employment and not displace employment.”

He said that while the estate is trying its utmost

to resume grinding on a normal level, it continues to be plagued by issues with its gear. To remedy this, the government has already procured another piece of equipment that will be delivered in July.

While the government waits, he said, they are working on finding a factory in Miami that has similar facilities.

ENHANCING LIVELIHOOD At Friday’s meeting, the President spoke of overall support for the workers. He said that plans are being formulated to register the workers to be part of a livelihood improvement programme to supplement their estate jobs. One of the options is the establishment of chick-

President Dr Irfaan Ali addresses sugar workers of the Uitvlugt Estate (Office of the President photo) en facilities where workers will be able to take part in poultry farming with approximately 150-200 birds.

“We are going to try to get the resources so that you don’t stay without work, you get the six days per week, and at the same time, we are going to work with you to support you with the livelihood option.”

No clear winner yet in GTU elections INCUMBENT President of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Mark Lyte, had gained a nominal lead over Vanessa Kissoon after the completion of just over 700 of the approximately 5,000 ballots cast in the GTU Triennial Elections.

Counting commenced on Saturday at the GTU Headquarters on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Lyte led for the presidency with 380 votes, while Kissoon had amassed 323 votes thus far. For the General Secretary’s position, Coretta McDonald had a wider margin, where she has already accumulated 346 votes and led by over 100 votes.

Speaking with the Sunday Chronicle, GTU Elections Officer, Caroline Daniels explained that the counting process would continue throughout Saturday night until all the ballots are counted.

Though official results of the elections are not expected to be declared until the Second Triennial Conference, which will be held from 20 - 22 April at the GTU Headquarters, Daniels noted that on completion of the counting, a statement of poll will be posted at the GTU Headquarters.

The GTU elections ran from March 1 to April 15, and saw teachers voting by mail-in ballots which was

distributed across the various schools to teachers who are registered members of the union as of August 2022.

The teachers were issued with the ballot and a stamped envelope to return the ballot. Daniels explained that the counting process began on Saturday at 08:30 hours when the post office box was opened, and the contents were then transported to the GTU Headquarters for counting.

Asked about transparency in the process, Daniels noted that representatives from the various candidates, in addition to two monitors, are present throughout the entire process to verify the opening

An election official verifies a ballot with agents overlooking the counting process (Delano Williams photo) of the post office box and the counting process.

“We have candidates and agents that candidates would’ve appointed to observe, that are participating in the process. They are overlooking and also tallying with us and verifying. We also

have two monitors. We are verifying that the stamp is official and then it’s moving to the counting area,” Daniels explained.

There are a total of eight elected executive posts in the GTU. In addition to the presidency and general secretary positions, electors also had to vote to fill the First Vice-President (VP), Second Vice-President, Deputy General Secretary, Treasurer, Regional VP (Demerara),

President Ali added that he will consult with the Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, to see what further help can be provided.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, was also at the meeting. (Office of the President press release) Regional VP (Berbice) and Regional VP (Essequibo) positions.

However, several of the posts will see a win by default, as there are unopposed nominees. Sumanta Alleyne is the only nominee for the treasurer position, while Collis Nicholson is unopposed for the position of Demerara Region VP. Donnette D’Andrade is unopposed for the Berbice Regional VP position and McDonald is vying for the GS post against Milne Seymour, and Dorcel Farley.

Former North Georgetown District Branch Manager, Mariska Williams, and Lesmeine Collins are the only two nominees for the First Vice-President (VP) post, while Julian Cambridge and Komal Singh are the only two nominees for the Second Vice-President position, and Carmel Williams and Rabinauth Boodram are vying for the Essequibo Regional VP post.

Counting of the ballots being done at the GTU Headquarters (Delano Williams photo)

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A significant development

THE Mandela-Eccles by-pass road was commissioned on Thursday by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. This is yet another significant milestone in terms of infrastructural development, and speaks to the great emphasis that is being placed by the current government on modernising the country’s physical landscape.

This is indeed a welcome development; one that the commuting public has been looking forward to for a long time. This road will greatly ease traffic congestion on the East Bank of Demerara, which, despite the upgrading of the main corridor from a two to four-lane road stretching from Mandela Avenue to Eccles, have proven inadequate to accommodate the volume of traffic, especially during peak hours. The agonising loss of valuable time has now been greatly minimized, and drivers can now breathe a deep sigh of relief.

The fact is that the number of vehicles on our roads have increased enormously, due to rising income levels and easier access to bank credits and other hire-purchase arrangements by auto dealers. And while the vehicle population is increasing exponentially, our main corridors, for the most part, remain the same.

All of that is about to change. The construction of a new four-lane road

from Mandela Avenue to Eccles represents a much bigger infrastructural overhaul that will see a new road link between the East Coast of Demerara and the East Bank of Demerara, going eventually all the way to where a new city is envisaged. The idea of a new city on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway is the brainchild of President Ali when he served as Minister of Water and Housing in an earlier PPP/C Administration. This is indeed visionary, and forward-looking thinking regarding the modernisation of Guyana, and pushing the frontiers of Guyana’s development.

Speaking at the commissioning of the $2.3B highway, President Ali said that this investment is in keeping with his administration’s vision of transforming Guyana’s landscape, which will not just ease the traffic congestion on the East Bank corridor, but will also serve to transform the landscape of Guyana as the country continues its trajectory of development. According to President Ali, “We celebrate Guyana with this highway: We celebrate the soaring heights of Guyana; we celebrate the strength of our collective effort, and we celebrate the same wingspan that covers us all in glory. We celebrate the strength of the cause that would lift us from the lowest point in the ground, and take us to the

highest point.”

Significantly, a monument was also unveiled at the new Mandela Roundabout depicting an adult Harpy Eagle weighing some 3,000 pounds with a height of 11 feet and a wingspan of 17 feet soaring in the air. “This,” according to the President, “symbolises the strength of Guyana; the wing signifies the protection of citizens, and the claws signify our collective capacity to lift our economy to soaring heights.”

We have every reason to celebrate, and the modernisation of our highways is only one of them. It is the infusion of new life into the economy, and a new mood of optimism and resilience and a feeling of leaving a difficult and fractured past behind us. These are now some of the defining characteristics of our ‘One Guyana’, as envisioned by President Ali. The Guyanese landscape is already going through a period of social and physical metamorphosis. This is apparent in all the regions of Guyana, but particularly on the East Bank of Demerara, with its several new housing schemes, commercial banks, restaurants, shopping malls, and the several interlocking new roads which will allow for greater connectivity and interactions by the several communities.

As pointed out by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal in his remarks at the commissioning ceremony, the completion of the new road will bring benefits to thousands of citizens in existing housing schemes. Already, more than 11,000 house lots have been allocated since the return to office of the PPP/C in August 2020.

The construction of new roads, especially in virgin areas, have a number of additional externalities such as the opening of new housing schemes, new opportunities for business activities and job creation. But it has also resulted in the increase on the real estate value of land and property. Thousands of people who are the beneficiaries of government house lots experience a sudden change of status from that of a tenant to a potential homeowner. That is a good feeling that is being experienced by tens of thousands of Guyanese, thanks to the aggressive and pro-people policies of the PPP/C Administrations.

President Ali and his administration must be commended for transforming the lives of so many Guyanese, and for modernising the physical and social infrastructure of the Guyanese society.

Indeed, our image as a country and as a people is now changing in positive ways.

GWI responds to Freddie Kissoon Dear Editor, IN our attempt to respond to “My words to the President on our first exchange” column, penned by Mr. Freddie Kissoon of Kaieteur News and published on April 15, we wish to first of all remind customers that we cannot address their concerns if they are not brought to our attention.

In other words, if no report has been made, then we have no record of your complaint in our system, hence we cannot address same.

In his column, Mr. Kissoon complained of not receiving a water bill for the past three months, prompting him to make a substantial payment to put his account in a credit, thus avoiding disconnection.

Prior to his public missive, we were

not informed of his claim of not receiving bills. Upon checking, however, our Bill Deliverer has confirmed delivering his bill each month, as she was able to positively describe Mr. Kissoon’s home and mailbox.

Additionally, Mr. Kissoon has had mobile numbers for two Customer Service Representatives, who he called in the past when he had queries. Mr. Kissoon is, therefore, encouraged to utilize these and other options available to him before making a public complaint.

Mr. Kissoon also raised a query about one Mr. Raymond Persaud, who is related to him, that he (Mr. Persaud) has not been receiving bills for four months and when a disconnection crew visited him, he subsequently sent his uncle to the office to ascertain his bill sum but he was turned away.

Based on our investigations, it is be-

lieved that the man showed up at or nearing the time of office closure for the day and made a payment the following day.

Nevertheless, we did not disconnect Mr. Persaud’s water service.

Our records also show that the account fitting the description of Mr. Persaud’s home has been operating a car wash under a domestic account, when he should have been registered as a commercial customer.

He was therefore utilizing a large quantity of water monthly.

We also found that although he was paying monthly, he had arrears totaling over $12,000. It should be noted once again that we did not receive a report from the customer about non-delivery of bills.

We wish to use this opportunity to remind all customers that they can raise any query or concern with us via our Customer

Call Center number: 227-8701, WhatsApp number 620-1667 or the GWI office nearest to them.

For persons wishing to view their balance, they can sign up for monthly E-billing by sending their email address to our WhatsApp number. Additional options for queries and ascertaining your account balance include our live chat, available on our website at www. gwiguyana.gy, entering your account number via our website or sending us a message on social media.

Our Customer Services teams countrywide also issue reminder notices to customers and make calls to owing customers, prior to disconnecting.

Regards, Management of GWI

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More earnest meetings, interactions amongst us in the forum of our religions Dear Editor, OUR Comrade, President for all Guyanese, I want to commend your recent leading of our people and country into a day of Fasting and Praying and the call to “Lift up each other”.

I do believe that the religions of our fore-parents coming down to us are the best starting points for us and our young people to grasp acceptable purposes and ends for our lives and living, and tolerable means thereto: they are filled with good lessons for life and ways of living.

Religions at times have kept peoples apart but in our Guyana at this time, the prospects are good for us to lean on our religions to help in bringing us together, as you have sought to do.

Our country and people have been blessed with little

if any hostility between our various religions and their adherents. In this we have been fortunate since our primary challenge has been to come together ever more as one people descending from six fore-parents, in our circumstance of a strong overlap between our different groups of people and our different religions. We have not had the intensity of troubles that overlapping, reinforcing differences often bring.

Coming together is advanced mostly in social settings, settings of free associations in which we talk and laugh as we seek to learn of and to influence each other on some matter and into some way of thinking. It is in such socializing settings that knowledge of and familiarity with each other are formed, that we get to know each other better, which is the basis

for the strong bonds between people in a society.

Whilst there has been little hostility between our various religions, and we live well with each other, most socializing takes place within and under some religious umbrella – occasions marking births, marriages, promotions, deaths, etc. – bringing together largely one group of people although a number of people from other groups would have been welcome.

We may say in our context that our sensitivities between our various religions though weak still inhibit our socializing – the socializing in which the knowledge of each other and becoming comfortable with each other which lay the bases for the strong bonds between us, are formed.

Weakly inhibiting religious forces have been creating the order (groupings) in

which our strong bonds are developed and our fasting and praying together should turn those inhibitions into welcoming doors, increasing the number of deep person-to-person bonds across existing groupings.

Schools and workplaces, often places of association with others which otherwise would not have been, are places of common experiences and bonding. We learn to put up with, and get along with the strangers alongside us and find that many of them are not so bad. However, not enough of these associations go beyond the school and plant gate. I believe greater comfort on our religious front would extend our associations at school and work.

We need to fast and pray together, become more comfortable in offering to join others in prayers and inviting others to join with us in our prayers. I think of Bishop George inviting Dr Jagan to share in Christian Communion and Dr Jagan accepting, at the dedication of the Angli-

can Church of the Transfiguration (on Mandela Avenue) no doubt both of them being moved by the successful completion of a work begun with the granting of the land by a pre-1964 Jagan/PPP Government.

Now that enough ice (residual insecurities) has been broken, perhaps we can keep going with the greatest of respect, in steadily learning about and becoming more comfortable with the customs, festivals, rituals and beliefs of each other’s religions. We must keep working in every way towards “One Guyana”.

Whilst I appreciate the arguments in the context of those times which saw successful movements to delink particular, often favored religions, from schools, I do think that a lot was lost and have been wondering what might be a better approach.

It might well be a good thing for knowledge of the religions of all our fore-parents to be presented sensitively, together, in graded texts from

kindergarten through to the end of university, a task that our IRO (Inter Religious Organisation) may be well placed to lead.

Whilst those texts should contribute to us Guyanese becoming steadily more knowledgeable and comfortable with each other’s religion, dissipating residual inhibitions, facilitating us in becoming steadily more “one people from six”, I think those texts would be good for our World, good for all Mankind, as we contemplate and work to leave our earth.

Who knows? Perhaps ten thousand years from now around some distant star, children of our descendants, still recognizably human, will be educated with graded texts “The Religions of our Fore-parents” to which we might have contributed some sparkle.

Yours sincerely, Samuel Hinds Former Prime Minister, and Former President.

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Second Opposition Leader jailed in Saint Lucia for serious infractions

By Earl Bousquet AT a time when the British public and United Kingdom citizens are mulling over London’s Metropolitan Police (Scotland Yard) charging Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak -- the two top leaders of the British government -- for breaking COVID rules they set for the public in 2020 and 2021, Saint Lucia’s courts are busy jailing top politicians who bring public offices into disrepute.

The moral bankruptcy of leadership of Saint Lucia’s opposition United Workers Party (UWP) continues to unfold, with a second former Opposition Leader jailed earlier this week for actions unbefitting of parliamentary political leaders – and a third awaiting his day in court.

On Monday (April 12), High Court Judge Justice Clarence Thompson sentenced former UWP Opposition Leader, Marcus Nicholas, to six months imprisonment for tax fraud by way of “Uttering or Using False Documents for Tax Purposes.”

The case dates five years back to 2017, when Nicholas was charged with making false representation for a tax return payment in his un-named girlfriend’s name -- and also signing the letter in her name.

Nicholas admitted to the court that he’d acted fraudulently, took responsibility and claimed he was “sorry that I put the court and the country in this position…”

But the judge told him he should have known better and sentenced him to six months at the Borderlais Correctional Facility (BCF).

Nicholas, who won elections to represent Dennery North in 2001 and 2006, is the second former Opposition Leader to be jailed for actions bringing the office into serious disrepute.

On November 9, 2021, Marius Wilson, former MP for Micoud North, was sentenced to five years imprisonment at the same BCF, for a shooting incident nine years earlier (on June 7, 2012), when he used his licensed firearm to shoot a man in a public space.

Wilson was twice convicted for the act, with two sentences of four and five years, running concurrently.

Nicholas and Wilson’s jail sentences have also deepened public interest in the fact that the island’s current Opposition Leader is also being prosecuted for another charge involving the public purse.

Former Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Allen Chastanet, now Opposition leader, is being prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Department for a 2011 Election-related

offense of using public finances to fund a performance by a popular Jamaican band to appear on his party’s platform during his unsuccessful campaign to unseat then Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) MP Harold Dalson in the Soufriere-Fond St Jacques seat.

According to the charge, Chastanet, who, as UWP Leader, did not hold a seat in the House of Assembly, paid the popular Jamaican band ‘Third World’ EC $ 38,000 fee, but from public funds.

During the SLP administration of 2011-2016, the AG’s Office filed charges against Chastanet to recover the $38,000, but the case dragged-on and never saw the light of day during his government’s five-year term.

Chastanet led the UWP to victory five years later in 2016 -- and soon after he took office as Prime Minister, the AG’s Office stopped prosecuting the case.

The UWP lost the July 2021 General Elections and last month the AG’s Department revived and revisited the outstanding case in pursuit of the outstanding public funds.

Chastanet hasn’t de-

nied the charge of Malfeasance in Public Office, and last month admitted he had indeed interfered with the course of justice by informing the Attorney General that he (as Prime Minister and Finance Minister) would not commit any more public funds to the department for pursuing the case against him.

Chastanet told reporters he’d told the AG that since the cost of pursuing him had reached almost $250,000 he would not spend one cent more in pursuit of the smaller $38,000.

However, while Chastanet argued that it didn’t make financial sense to spend more money pursuing less, the AG’s Office reinstated the case.

As a result, the current UWP Opposition Leader, like his two predecessors, will also have his day in court.

As in most two-party societies, UWP supporters are either quiet about the disrepute brought to the island’s major opposition party, while Chastanet continues to behave like nothing happened.

Instead on Monday, Chastanet issued a public statement accusing the

governing SLP of failing to protect citizens and consumers against increasing costs of fuel, cooking gas and food.

Chastanet falsely claimed that the government was earning “over $100 million monthly”, $40 Million more than was available during his previous administration.

But the government has pointed out that far from that, the Finance Ministry is losing one million dollars annually as a result of subsidising 20-pound cooking gas cylinders to protect average consumers, while actual increases have been allowed on 100-gallon cylinders used by persons better able to afford.

Fuel prices for public transport have been increased by one dollar in the past two months, taking the current price from $14.954 per gallon to $15.95.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Philip J. Pierre, said his administration will continue to shield consumers as much as possibly, but has also

warned that the unending war in Ukraine will continue to cause price increases as a result of its effect on energy prices, as well as the continuing global Supply Chain problems that will also cause continuing increases in food prices.

Indeed, the National Committee on Public Transport (NCOPT), which represents the island’s minibus owners are pressing the government for a fare increase, with Transport Minister Stephenson King indicating that, from all indication, the owners and drivers are not interested in other incentives offered.

“A bus fare increase seems definitely on the horizon,” King said earlier this week, pointing out that the minibus operators last requested a fare increase in 2015, which was not granted.

But try telling that to Chastanet and the UWP, who continue to pretend that the Ukraine war, Supply Chain problems and COVID-19 never happened.

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How Guyana’s local capacity will grow STEADY growth in the oil and gas sector is helping a rising number of local companies participate in the rapid industrialisation of Guyana.

With major new projects like shore bases and a deep-water port on the horizon, there is a growing need for innovative and ambitious local firms across many sectors of the economy.

To maximise Guyana’s ability to capture the most value from our resources, effective training and worker development programs must play a central role.

One notable example is the Puran Brothers, a solid waste collection and disposal company that has grown to provide a wide range of services to the oil and gas sector. The company took advantage of training opportunities and certification programs through the industry-funded Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD).

The CLBD has been in-

strumental within the business community by prioritising capacity and providing guidance for companies that want to get involved. Since 2017, the centre has registered over 5,100 businesses on their supplier portal, conducted seminars for over 4,500 participants, cultivated over 750 oil and gas sector vendors, and delivered Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) programmes to over 310 businesses.

The direct engagement the CLBD has with local businesses like Puran Brothers has helped a 100 per cent Guyanese-owned business build their capacity to operate in this growing sector.

One of the most valuable benefits of the training is enabling companies to achieve ISO 9001 certification, the international gold standard for quality operations in the oil and gas sector. Employees continue to benefit from continuous training and benefit from mentorship

programs.

There is still significant growth on the horizon with the development of Guyana’s first deep water port, announced by operator CGX Energy in February. The port will serve the oil and gas sector along with others such as agriculture.

Set to be operational by end of 2022, the deep-water port is key component to growth in the oil sector as it will boost the capacity to receive equipment, fuel, cement, water, and power. Guyana can expect to welcome larger vessels that require additional room to berth. This also means more workers with the requisite skills and training will be needed, further increasing the opportunities for Guyanese.

Another growth area with the potential to transform Guyana’s offshore oil operations is the shore base project expected to support the recently announced Yellowtail project and a wide range

of industrial developments.

It’s yet another opportunity for the country to benefit from large infrastructure investments that create long term value and ultimately generate activity that can be used to increase Guyana’s capacity to compete locally, regionally, and ultimately globally.

But projects and businesses like these depend on one thing: steady demand.

Guyana is fortunate to have a strong pipeline of projects stretching over the next five years in various stages of development. Large delays between discoveries or projects can make it impossible for local companies to invest, hire and grow.

Companies are hesitant to

invest for the long term when they don’t have this assurance.

In contrast, confirmed projects like Payara and Yellowtail and the steady stream of new discoveries give a signal to local companies that their services will be in demand for many years, allowing them to plan and invest in people, machinery, and training to meet this need. The same goes for international investors looking at potential partnerships with local companies.

Despite calls from some sectors to delay new projects as a political tool, the government has so far remained committed to reducing the politicisation of regulatory bodies and ensuring that

decisions are made based on clear criteria, global best practices and expert input.

This can help ensure that that pipeline of projects does not disappear just as Guyanese companies are getting in on the opportunities. The government is also taking steps to ensure that procurement and contracting is transparent and fair, as it continues to progress implementation of the landmark local content legislation passed late last year.

As local companies and workers continue to seize the opportunities in the oil and gas sector, it’s ever more important the Guyana continues to foster development and explore additional ways to encourage local innovation.

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sunday CHRONICLE april 17, 2022

An interview with Wayne Westphal Barrow

BARBADIAN-BORN now Guyanese businessman, information, and technology specialist and non-fiction author, Wayne Westphal Barrow penned a rather interesting and informative book titled Guyana’s Election 2020 – The 153 Days Saga.

The book captures and covers pre-election manipulation strategies and post-election shenanigans resulting in the long delay of the outcome of Guyana’s March 2, 2020, general elections amid attempts to steal an election in favour of the APNU+AFC Coalition in front of local and international observers as well as thousands watching on social media.

Lomarsh Roopnarine (LR):Readers might want to ask this question: what qualifies you to write a book on the Guyana’s controversial March 2, 2020, general election?

Wayne Westphal Barrow (WWB): I wrote for the Guyana Chronicle covering the Guyanese social condition since 1992 (first free and fair elections) covering a four-year period under a pen name. Every Guyanese

with a legitimate interest in the affairs of their country is qualified to pen the facts as they occurred for posterity reasons, for discussion and for an overall positive change to the social, economic, and political fabric of Guyana.

LR: And so, what is your rationale behind this declaration?

WWB: An author writes, not because he wants to say something, but because he has something to say. Being an Afro-Guyanese married to an Indo-Guyanese, our lives have been impacted on both sides of the sociopolitical divide. Consequently, my world vision carries with it an observer approach balanced with a sense of participation and belonging.

LR: How and what sources did you use to write your book?

WWB: The sources used were multifaceted. Since my arrival in Guyana, I have spoken to and interacted with ministers of government, and sociologists from the University of Guyana to have a feel of how the political process operates in Guyana. Books written

by Guyanese such as the West on Trial by Dr. Cheddie Jagan, the speeches by the late Dr. Walter Rodney and the articles by Brigadier (Ret’d.) David Granger over the last 30 years have provided a bird’s eye view of Guyanese political system.

LR: What about some oral sources?

WWB: I have had discussions with the International and local Elections Observers over the last five elections, their recommendations, and analyses of the elections since 1992 have provided insight into the elections process. Discussions held with officials of GECOM provided technical background on the process. Another unparalleled source has been the ubiquitous social media platforms, which provided streaming data that would have been a first-hand account of what transpired at various stages of the elections process.

LR:There has been an ominous tide of discontent within the APNU+AFC Coalition about the general election. Can you address APNU+AFC Coalition’s position that the voters’ list was bloated, disfavouring them more so than the PPP? WWB: Both governments of the major political parties failed to address the challenges of a clean Voters’ List; their motives can only be surmised. Consequently, the blame lies equally with both parties. The purification of the Voters’ List has been a recommendation of the Carter Centre and several Observer Missions since 1992.

LR:What about the Coalition’s claim that the recount of the votes revealed anomalies such as unstamped boxes?

WWB: The APNU-AFC Coalition clutched at straws when it was determined that they did not have a chance of winning. CARICOM’s high-level team’s findings and an Elections Petition that failed proved that anomalies were consistent with human error and not with preconceived efforts to defraud the process.

Their burden of proof was insufficient to justify anomalies.

LR: My reading of your book indicates that there were attempts to rig the election or overturn the results that would give the Coalition a victory. When did the attempts of rigging start?

WWB: Nick Cheeseman wrote an interesting book which is titled, How To Rig An Election. To me, that book is the definitive authority on elections manipulations. Aside from ballot stuffing, cheque book voting etc., the ability to manipulate the Electoral Commission machinery is the single most effective element in preparation to rig an election. The manipulation of the system with the unilateral appointment of the Chairman of GECOM, along with the bloated Voters’ List, were determined to be the initial efforts to manipulate the elections process. The public waffling

by GECOM’s CEO and the scheming of the Returning Officer, along with the high-handed way the Joint Forces were incorporated into the security fabric of the counting process led much to be desired and raised suspicion locally and internationally.

LR: At what stage do you think that the attempt of rigging was failing to gain momentum?

WWB: Given Nick Cheeseman’s definition of the various stages of electoral manipulation, there were two main events that unsettled the riggers. The first event was the victory by the CCJ to overturn Mr. Patterson’s

appointment as Chairman of GECOM which would have shaken the foundation upon which the rigging was being laid. In the second event, given the effective monitoring process, inclusive of the heavy presence of party affiliates, international and local Observer teams, the cumbersome, non-subtle efforts by Mr. Clairmont Mingo, would have rendered the plot fruitless. The collective opposition to his efforts quelled the momentum.

LR: Never has CARICOM played such an important role in Guyana’s general election?

What prompted such a different approach of involvement?

WWG: The quality of leadership of CARICOM and the need to re-install CARICOM as the appropriate interlocutor in CARICOM affairs, regionally and internationally.

LR: What about the role of Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados?

WWB: The quality of leadership of CARICOM at the time was crucial to CARICOM’s role in Guyana’s electoral process.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados is a no-nonsense, action-oriented leader in much the same vein as the Late Errol W. Barrow and Dr. Eric Williams where the integration movement took precedence over the personal feelings of its individual political leaders.

It didn’t hurt to have the former Prime Ministers heading the international Observer Missions. Additionally, CARICOM had to assert itself given the intrusive behaviour and comments from the embassies of the ABC countries in the affairs of a CARICOM member state at a critical juncture in its democracy. With members of the ABC vying for political mileage, it was important that CARICOM played its role as defined by the Charter of Civil Society. It would not have been the first time that Guyana was headed down the authoritarian road, and that demanded an expedient response.

LR:Do you think sanctions from the US were the main factor that led to the Coalition giving up power?

WWB: The USA, Canada, the UK, and the EU wielded enormous intrusive powers at a critical time when internal mechanisms had failed to answer to the crisis which included the protests and violence. The sanctions would have rendered the power brokers impotent and vulnerable. USA sanctions have been proven to incapacitate recalcitrant governments, resulting in the overthrow of regimes.

LR: I suppose that there are many lessons to be learnt from the March 2, 2020, general election? Can you share two of them from your book?

WWB: There are so many lessons to be learnt from the March 2, 2020 elections but the two main lessons would have to be focused on social media platforms and the sociopolitical divide. First, social media platforms are necessary to stave off the manipulative behavioural pattern of the two major political parties and must never be banned from the electoral process. Transparency and accountability are two major features of a progressive political system and a democracy that works in favour of the masses. Second, sociopolitical divide needs to be addressed as early as yesterday, with resources allocated to ensure that the impact is reduced systematically every four years. Minister Dr. Vindyha Persaud’s initiative, Support and Heal Guyana; is a start in the right direction, and it will work.

LR: Thank you.

A New Start

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sunday CHRONICLE april 17, 2022

ON Wednesday last, Mr. Aubrey Norton became the Opposition Leader, after waiting a long three-month period.

Mr. Norton was immediately quizzed by the media upon his elevation to the post. He said his focus would be on holding the PPP Government accountable. He said he would be meeting the Speaker of the House to discuss the many concerns relating to the work of the opposition.

He then warned of extra-parliamentary measures if the opposition parties, the APNU+AFC are not satisfied with the outcome of these meetings.

Mr. Norton also said he could not say whether or not he would push for a meeting with President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, as he committed to honouring the responsibilities of the office of the Opposition Leader.

Firstly, the new Opposition Leader is off to a bad start. He is using the same political rhetoric as his predecessors. He ‘stonewalled’ and skirted the issue raised by the media by engaging in semantics that will make good sound-bites but will be empty and hallow in the long run.

Additionally, Mr. Norton must say whether he believes the PPP Government is legitimate or installed, so there would be no confusion as to where he stands on this issue. It would tell the public not to expect any meaningful change or paradigm shift in how the opposition parties see the PPP Government.

Secondly, he should also indicate his position on meeting with President Ali to have dialogue on important matters affecting all Guyanese. This will prove interesting since Ali is not going to change his position on having meaningful engagements or political dialogue with the new Opposition Leader unless and until there is public admittance that APNU+AFC lost the recent election and the PPP

won fairly.

Similarly, the public needs clarity from the opposition leader as to his intentions now that he got the top post because making baseless claims without the proper evidence and facts will not make the PPP Government more accountable or transparent.

In the end, Mr. Norton would be advised to turn a new page or leaf. If he is wise, adopting a new paradigm shift would be welcomed by all, opening up the possibility of having meaningful talks and discussions with President Ali. It would also pave the way for a genuine bipartisan approach to government.

Thirdly, he should rid himself of the approaches taken by his immediate political predecessors.

Added to that he should start doing things with a new leadership approach, given his knowledge and experience of Guyana’s body politic.

In anyways, he has to prove himself to the Guyanese public, who is wary of the politics of David Granger and Joseph Harmon. Mr. Norton must shake things up in the opposition party by holding its feet to the fire.

He must not fall into the political trap of being a docile or passive leader who goes with the current or wave. He must stand firm on principle or not stand at all.

Consequently, his oath of office as Opposition Leader would be meaningless unless he builds and inspires the team around him to perform, delivering the best service to their constituencies. After all, the public wants meaningful representation by disciplined parliamentarians.

Mr. Norton must rebuke those armchair parliamentarians who do not do meaningful work. He must insist that they get up from their seats and offices. They should go into communities and the regions so the quality of their parliamentary rep-

resentation would be reflective of the mood of the people. Putting it mildly, reshuffle the opposition portfolios.

If such a move is done, the opposition will be seen as holding the government accountable for specific issues and developments.

Finally, Mr. Norton should realise that the public is tired of the same old opposition politics, cries and actions. If he does not get his way in Parliament, he must desist from talking about protests and other extra-parliamentary action unless these activities will

be peaceful and lawful.

If Mr. Norton has his eyes on the presidency, he must start to behave like a mature political leader worthy of the public’s trust, confidence and respect. He must also not condone covert racism and divisive political actions

that can be disastrous for Guyanese.

Mr. Norton has the chance to start a new political movement by adopting a fresh approach to the existing issues or continuing the status quo.

The public is watching.

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sunday CHRONICLE april 17, 2022

Transitioning from pandemic to endemic phase and behavioural adjustments

AS defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), a disease is classified as a pandemic when it has an exponential global spread, which is usually rapid and uncontrollable and has a great impact across borders, due to economic loss, social disruption and severe suffering.

On the other hand, endemic diseases are described as regular, with a constant spread within prevalent regions, to which we have to

adjust our lifestyle to accommodate because they cannot be eradicated. Examples of such are malaria, yellow fever, chicken pox, tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and soon COVID-19.

Yet another classification is an epidemic category, which is a sudden rise of a condition with characteristic of a contained spread over a restricted geographical area and may not necessarily be contagious, for example Zika virus, Ebola virus, small pox, obesity and opioids addiction.

However, it must be cautioned that there is the possibility of moving from epidemic back to pandemic, depending on the rate of spread, if frequently quick assessments and enforcement measures are not instituted.

Just two years and two weeks after the first COVID-19 death in Guyana, our country has reopened with a record vaccination achievement of eighty five percent of the adolescent, adult and elderly population vaccinated with one dose and sixty five percent fully vaccinated.

Additionally, there is just over fifty four thousand persons who would have received a booster shot. When compared to some other countries, which are yet to get universal access to vaccines, compliance to COVID-19 restrictions and quarantine measures, Guyana stood tall. We have achieved the goals set out by the lead health organisations, without a viral video of barbaric and violent enforcement, even though we had political, economic and climatic challenges.

Looking back, three weeks after the first COVID-19 death, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) had predicted that twenty thousand persons would have contracted the disease within a month if lock down and restriction methods were not immediately implemented, since there were no approved vaccines at that time. After two years the total confirmed cases approximated to 63,350 and deaths to 1,227.

The SARS –CoV-2 virus predominantly found in bats, was suggested to have crossed over via a wild domesticated animal to man and has since changed into variant forms; a few highlighted VOC (variant for concern) are alpha, beta, delta, omicron (BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5).

One of the lessons learnt is that this infection has peaks and troughs, graphically referred to as “waves”, which, according to John’s Hopkins Medicine, is now in the fifth wave due to the highly transmissible BA.2 sub-variant in Shanghai, the most populous area in China and in Europe (Italy, France Austria and Germany) and United Kingdom.

Some of these countries had relaxed the COVID-19 restrictions such as not wearing mask on public transportation systems, not requiring vaccinations for entry (just a negative COVID-19 test and a sworn statement of not experiencing symptoms), not mandating self-isolation enforcement measures when infected even when there are multigenerational relatives under one roof. Two weeks ago, 39 out of 188 countries were reporting new cases, where seven countries reported twice as many new cases.

The dynamics of the situation has changed with convenient home self-test kits and approved anti-viral medications now becoming available. This phase now requires adjustment in the protocols for diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. Innovative surveillance systems to capture accurate data for positive and exposed persons need to be proactively addressed.

The characteristic effects of the current variants of concern were measured by increase transmissibility, increase severity of disease, decreased neutralization of antibody

effectiveness, failure to detect and reduced effectiveness of the treatment or vaccines.

According to the CDC Deputy Director, just over two weeks ago, we are moving to the endemic stage but cautioned that COVID-19 is not gone. It was further elaborated that we must be careful in highly populated areas or large gatherings since we have to live with this virus and make the necessary adjustments so as not to disrupt our lives and livelihood.

Similar sentiments were echoed earlier in February of this year when the WHO Head of the African continent indicated a transition out from the pandemic to endemic, which was the contrasted warning by the Director General of WHO, since eighty-five percent in Africa were not vaccinated due to unequitable access to vaccines.

However, a repeated reason for the spike in the global trends was attributed to human behaviour. According to the Washington University School of Medicine, we cannot be the same exiting the pandemic.

We need to mentally process the situation and the uncertainties and have open conversation, respecting our individual decisions or hesitancy on our “newly found freedom”. Hence, it is advisable to find common grounds and also set boundaries according to your comfort level of operating, especially for the vulnerable or high risk population.

Establishing routines and mode of operation, especially when back out to school, work and social gatherings will help you to plan ahead and prepare instead of being caught in an eventuality. A psychologist from Birbeck, University of London, endorsed a new hybrid way to work, where human reconnection in a safe manner is recommended.

The American Psychological Association highlighted “Mask Free” anxiety in certain sections of the population.

Wearing of masks at this time may not be universally mandatory but this learnt habit may give some level of comfort to those who are mentally not prepared to increase their exposure. So is washing or sanitising of hands, not greeting by extending for hand shake or sometimes not being within close proximity, mentally maintaining the five feet distance.

These have been replayed in our heads so many times over, especially if you are a healthcare worker, that to unlearn this behaviour will take great effort. So behaviour adjustment will be at an individualised pace and everyone should be respected for their choices. At the same time we are witnessing glimpses of outbreaks so we must be in a flexible mindset to transition to either ends of the spectrum if need be.

For further pharmacological guidance and physician referral, contact the pharmacist of Medicine Express PHARMACY located at 223 Camp Street, between Lamaha and New Market Streets.

If you have any queries, comments or further information on the above topic kindly forward them to medicine.express@ gmail.com or send them to 223 Camp Street, N/burg. Tel #225-5142.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

‘Be more proactive’ – Hicken urges junior officers

COMMISSIONER of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, has read the proverbial ‘riot act’ to junior officers of the twelve Regional Police Divisions, during a meeting on Thursday last, at the Officers’ Training Centre on Camp Road, Georgetown.

“I am not going to ask you to do anything outside the realm or scope of your work…you will be judged based on your performance,” the Top Cop told the junior officers.

Among those he addressed were Cadet Officers, Assistant Superintendents and Deputy Superintendents, many of whom are Sub-Divisional Officers, Divisional Detective Officers, and Officers in Charge of Traffic in their respective Divisions.

The meeting follows several similar meetings that were initiated by the Top Cop the previous week when he met separately with all the Sergeants, Inspectors, and Regional Commanders in which he outlined the vision, strategic plans, and new posture in taking the Police Force forward.

Like he did previously in the other meetings, Hicken gave

Seated from left are Head of Special Branch, Errol Watts; Top Cop, Clifton Hicken; Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’, Calvin Brutus, and Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’, Ravindradat Budhram, along with all the Junior Officers of the Force the junior officers a comprehensive charge and strict mandate to ‘serve and protect’ and to change the negative image and perception that members of the public have of the force.

He highlighted specific areas that they, as middle managers, can improve upon, such as professionalism, accountability and partnership.

Hicken used the forum to further remind the officers of the important roles and responsibilities as outlined in the standing orders,

coupled with the implementation of the strategic pillars of the 2022-2026 strategic plan.

He told the junior officers that it was imperative for them to understand that change is necessary as the force’s administration try to create an atmosphere that will aid the improvement of service delivery to the public.

Alluding to the fact that there were gaps in the organisation, the Top Cop stated: “We’ve got to identify the gaps and we’re going to fill those gaps as a collective.

I want to remind you that the chain is as strong as its weakest link, and so you’re going to complement each other in terms of knowledge and experience.”

Stating that policies will be converted into action, Hicken told the junior officers that they

were going to be an integral part of the entire developmental process.

“You’re going to be part of the decision-making process at every level. It becomes qualitative because the structures implemented will be administered, hence the change starts with you,” he said.

Hicken said his vision for the force is to ensure that it is more qualitative rather than quantitative, and this will be achieved through the implementation of the strategic plan.

On this note, Hicken alluded to the force’s Strategic Plan 2022-2026, which speaks to operations, infrastructure, developing our people, performance, partnership, professionalism and accountability.

Hicken also addressed the laissez-faire attitude exhibited by the junior officers and made it clear that members of the force

will be evaluated and promoted based on performance.

Further, he also reminded the junior officers that they have a responsibility to effectively police their respective sub-divisions.

However, he alluded to the fact that, in providing the service as mandated by the GPF, reports and occurrences must be followed up by giving victims a feedback on the status of the investigations.

Members of the Executive Leadership Team inclusive of Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag), Mr. Calvin Brutus; Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’(ag), Mr. Ravindradat Budhram and Head of Special Branch, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts, who were also in attendance, endorsed Hicken’s ‘charge’ to the junior officers during their brief remarks.

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Discover Guyana…

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Experience the beauty of St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri)

EXPERIENTIAL travel is a form of tourism designed and organised by local hosts, where travellers experience a destination by actively and meaningfully engaging with its history, people, culture, food and environment. These activities provide visitors with access to one-of-akind, insider experiences that engage all of the senses.

St. Cuthbert’s Mission, located deep within the Mahaica River, will certainly provide this experience. Through the guidance of the Authority, this village, which

recently celebrated its 133rd Anniversary, has implemented a number of hygiene and sanitation protocols to ensure the absolute safety of guests. Additional areas of training in First Aid & CPR, Delivering Quality Service as well as tour guiding and culinary arts were provided so that the villagers will be able to host the best experiences possible.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted with that warm, hospitable nature found throughout the village; an energy that is unmistakably Guyanese. The village’s tourism committee, as well as the lead tour guide will present a succinct introduction to the village and what you should expect during your stay.

Thereafter, you will be transferred to Bimichi to check into the lodge, followed by a quick transfer to the village landing.

At this point, you are still being treated to introductions and historical interpretations of the village. Each experience has been carefully planned to ensure that travellers have the most educational, participatory and inherently experiential experience.

YAMORAH LANDING Have you ever wanted to experience the

beauty of kingfishers during a boat ride?

What about having the gleeful howls of the sakiwinki monkeys accompany you on your journey?

You can have these experiences on a 30- minute boat ride to Yamorah Landing where you will learn of the historical significance of the area, as well as be treated to a cassava processing activity. If you’ve ever wondered how cassava bread is made, then this will be the perfect learning opportunity for you. What’s even better is that you will be able to try making it on your own! Exciting, isn’t it!

For the more artistic travellers, a wood sculpting experience with the village artist, affectionately known as ‘Uncle Ozzy’, is bound to entertain you. If you wish, you will be able to carve your own masterpiece to take with you as a fond reminder.

The villagers often rely on their bows and arrows for hunting, so, why not tap into their way of life, and learn to make one of your own? As a plus, you will also be treated to an expert archery demonstration.

Of course, you are free to indulge in this activity.

WINDING DOWN As the day winds down, there is the opportunity to explore the nature trails in Yamorah for wildlife spotting. Or, take a short canoe ride where you can learn traditional fishing techniques, or test your canoe steering skills. The choices are endless!

To bring the day to a close, you will travel back to Bimichi for dinner and an evening bonfire activity. As the fire illuminates the darkness of the night, take some time to enjoy the cultural presentations, as well as stories and folklore told by the villagers. This is the perfect time to sample some ‘Bimichi Wines’, a traditional Indigenous alcoholic beverage; it’s a Guyanese staple.

These experiences, of course, only make up the first day of your stay. On the next day, you will be invited to take an early morning nature walk, and head to Mahadeo’s farm for an interesting agricultural experience. While having breakfast on the farm, you are free to explore and even indulge in the fresh fruit that is readily available.

Back at Bimichi, the village craft mak-

ers will be waiting to take you through the steps of Tibisiri (a dried straw-like material) craft making, as well as a top-spinning activity, and, of course, a mini-lesson in Arawak, the village’s native language. You will then be invited to sample the locallybranded Bimichi wines after a hearty lunch.

What’s even better is that for the Easter Season, the Bimichi Eco-lodge has a special Easter package for travellers to the community. There aren’t any specific dates for the experience, so you can book on a weekday or a weekend. A minimum of four persons are required for the day trip, and it is $12,000 per person. For more informa-

tion, you can contact them at 592-6756074, 592-627-2949 or visit their Facebook page: @Bimichi Eco Lodge.

As tourism evolves, one thing is absolutely certain, we must ensure that our culture is preserved and allowed to pass down from generation to generation. This is possible through a multi-collaborative effort of both the Government of Guyana and the Private Sector. And it is evident through the experiences provided by St Cuthbert’s Mission.

St. Cuthbert’s Mission is a different experience; one that is certainly worth your time.

For more information on how you TURN TO PAGE 15

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Cousins shot during fracas at Sophia

YARDAN Jacobs, 27, and his cousin Steve Bacchus, 29, both of North Sophia, Georgetown were on Saturday injured in the wee hours when a man shot them both in the aftermath of an argument in the same community.

According to Police Headquarters, Jacobs who is and labourer, was at the Tanary area in North Sophia hanging out with some friends, when he reportedly got into an argument with

an identifiable man.

Thereafter, police said Jacobs’ cousin, Steve Bacchus, a businessman of North Sophia, intervened.

The suspect then pulled out a firearm from the waist of his pants and discharged several rounds in the direction of Jacobs and Bacchus, causing Jacobs to receive a gunshot wound to his upper right side abdomen and Bacchus a gunshot to his lower right side back.

Police said the suspect then fled the scene in an unknown direction while ranks on patrol duty responded and took Jacobs to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted a patient.

His condition is listed as stable. Bacchus was taken to the hospital by public spirited citizens where he also was admitted and his condition is listed as stable.

Police are on the hunt for the gunman.

Experience the beauty of...

FROM PAGE 14 can schedule your experiential travel experience, do reach out to the Guyana Tourism Authority at: 592-2190093-6 or send an email to info@guyanatourism. com. You can also engage with us via WhatsApp at 592-688-4155, or follow us on social media: @Discover Guyana on Facebook and Instagram as well as the @Guyana Tourism Authority on Facebook.

- Police seeking gunman

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Legal luminary Stanley Moore awarded for 50 years of service

Senior Counsel Stanley Alfred Moore with his award in recognition of his 50 years of admission to the Bar

By Rabindra Rooplall ATTORNEY-AT-LAW and Senior Counsel, Stanley Alfred Moore, who sat as a Judge in several jurisdictions, was awarded and acknowledged for his illustrious 50-year career by the Guyana Bar Association.

The retired judge joined the Bar Association on July 25, 1970.

“Lawyers don’t stop working until our mind stops…I just can’t retire and go home.

I think it’s the way we lawyers

are built,” the 86-year-old attorney told the Sunday Chronicle in a recent interview at his Croal Street, Georgetown office.

His legal career goes beyond the Caribbean to the most distant lands of the African Continent where he calls Botswana and Eswatini home.

Eswatini, officially the Kingdom of Eswatini, was formerly renamed Swaziland.

Attorney Moore was born in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

He is married to Cheryl Moore and they have five children, one of whom has since passed on.

In 1979, he acted as a judge in Guyana and in 1990, he was the Attorney-General in Montserrat; and then in 1992, he became a Supreme Court judge in Eastern Caribbean spending his first stint in Grenada until 1996, and the second stint in the British Virgin Islands until 2000. Thereafter, he joined the Commonwealth Bahamas Supreme Court.

In his retirement from the bench of the Bahamas Supreme Court, attorney Wayne Munroe, on behalf of the Bahamas Bar Association, stated that Mr. Moore was “blessed with a superior capacity for rationale and intelligent thought, possessed with a deep sense of fair play and a passion for the rule of law. Justice Moore demonstrated honesty and true scholarship in his application of the law.”

Stanley Moore in ceremonial attire as a Bahamian Judge

Justice Moore (second from left seated) acting President of the Botswana Court of Appeal in 2009, along with fellow Judges In numerous other presentations, Mr. Moore was described as a “caring judge, “legal eagle”, “charming and beguiling”, and “interesting conversationalist” amongst others.

Having achieved notable success in his career, Moore admits that he is not as sharp as he once was, but notes that his mind is ever-ticking.

Despite his age, Moore still attends court. His goal is to stay active and remain au fait with the discipline of law for as long as possible.

However, he noted that he takes life in strides. His satisfaction comes from relishing in the memories of his prime years of private practice and working as a judge, locally and overseas.

Photographs from that time, some of which hang from the walls of his office, are among some of his most valued treasures. Despite his professional accomplishment, the lawyer said he is forever humbled by life’s lessons.

Moore gave his time and effort to educate upcoming lawyers at the University of Guyana and the University of the West Indies.

He was also a visiting professor at the Florida State University for Comparative Law, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Public International Law in the early 2000s.

He also worked with the Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute and developed significant foreign connections. In the early 2000s, the Senior Counsel was engaged in several programmes at the institute.

While attending a forum in Canada on behalf of the institute, he met four South African Judges and this piqued his interest in the South African legal system.

He visited Botswana and Swaziland and between 2004 and 2014, he was appointed to serve as a Justice of Appeal in both countries.

He shared that his most memorable case was his acquittal of a South African woman who was charged with the murder of her lover after she found out he was having an affair.

“I keep wondering whatever happened to that woman…I set her free because when I reviewed the evidence, it was a clear case of self-defence.”

Separate from his illustrious legal occupation, Moore recounted that his other passions included theatre and acting for which he developed a love while in England.

Justice Moore said that he loved acting and was involved in several plays at the Theatre Guild.

Noting that he also was

a broadcaster, he added, “I worked part-time at Radio Demerara and Guyana Broadcasting Service (GBS) providing analysis and ball-by-ball cricket commentary.”

Further, he described broadcasting legend, Rafiq Ahmad Khan as one of the greatest broadcasters in Guyana’s history.

Currently, the retired Judge is satisfied with spending leisure time with his wife Cheryl, seven grandchildren and four remaining children: Alfred Thompson Moore, Susan Moore Williams, Adrian Moore, and Senior Magistrate Alex Hubert Moore.

LIFE BEFORE THE LAW Moore was born on July 1, 1935, to parents Olive Isabella Walcott-Moore and Llewellyn Cornett Moore. At the age of two, the family relocated to Thomas Street, Kitty, George-

town.

In that period of British Guiana, the former judge gave his first recollection of life in the quiet neighbourhood of Kitty.

His father was employed at the Transport and Harbours Department as a Marine Engineer and his mother worked as a seamstress to help provide for the family.

The family held education in high regard, so the Moore brothers attended St. James the Less Anglican School. But in 1939, the family was separated by unavoidable circumstances.

His father was enlisted to join the troops fighting in World War II and never returned home.

The attorney said that this did not prevent his mother from ensuring that her two sons excelled in their academics.

“My mother worked hard, but it takes a village to raise a child, really, so relatives of both the Moore and Walcott sides of the family who lived in close proximity of us in Kitty were able to support.”

After completing school at the elementary level, Moore said that he opted to attend Tutorial High School since in then British Guiana high school education was not free.

“In those days, fees were attached to attending Queen’s College, and I naturally did not want to burden my mother with the cost of my education. So I took advantage of a scholarship to Tutorial High School,” he added.

He said that he was among the first group of students to successfully lobby for and complete a sixth-form education TURN TO PAGE 20

Senior Counsel Stanley Alfred Moore with his wife Cheryl and grandson Donovan Andrew Moore, at the recent Bar Association dinner held at Marriott Hotel

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

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4 new COVID-19 cases, 1 in ICU

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

The Ministry of Health has reported that there are currently 103 active COVID-19 cases in Guyana, following the addition of four new cases on April 16, 2022.

The four newly confirmed cases were recorded in Region One and Region Four.

Region One (Barima-Waini) has one new case and Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) has three new cases.

The country has now recorded a total of 63,368 cases since March 2020.

Of the active cases, one person is in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Infectious Diseases Hospital, Liliendaal; ten are in institutional isolation; 80 are in home isolation, and 12 are in institutional quarantine.

Recovered cases stand at 62,049 while the number of deaths remain at 1,228.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Almost 1,000 cases of abuse against boys reported between 2013-2020

By Cassandra Khan

ChildLinK, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) has found that almost 1,000 cases of male sexual assault were reported in Guyana between the period of 2013 to 2020.

The abuse occurred to boys between the ages of 12 and 18 but ChildLink believes that there are more cases which go undetected and most are not reported to the authorities.

Speaking at a media training aimed at increasing the knowledge of sexual abuse in males, at the National Library, on Wednesday last, Hasani Tinnie, the Monitoring and Evaluation Manager of the NGO, said that several factors contribute to the under-reporting of sexual abuse in males. Fear, instilled by the perpetrator into the child, is one of the biggest factors.

Others include protecting the family name where parents are aware of the abuse but choose not to report because it would ruin their image, supposedly. Some parents even agree to monetary settlements by the perpetrator leaving him or her to roam freely on the streets and acquire more victims.

The NGO conducted research for the purpose of finding out the social norms and practices which contribute to the sexual abuse of males, as well as the reasons for underreporting. They found that the cultural context of masculinity and selfreliance expected among males is a major factor.

The research was completed in November 2021 and the findings confirmed there is an urgent need to focus on the protection of boys in society.

It was also found in the research that a lack of knowledge about sexual abuse lead to males becoming victims; victim-blaming by parents, communities and society and the notion that boys are expected to protect themselves.

“To protect us or to protect other children, what we need is to have safe relationships… our parents need to take an interest in the people we are with,” Tinnie said.

It was shared that parents should speak with their children’s friends and get to know them.

“We would like to think that children would not want their parents to be involved

ful.

Parents admitted in the research process that they had never spoken to their sons about sexual abuse, most times because it was an uncomfortable conversation or because they never expected it to happen.

EFFECTS OF ABUSE Tinnie noted that children who have been sexually abused experience a strong

Monitoring and Evaluation Manager, Hasani Tinnie with their friends or engage with their friends; however, children who are victims of abuse, admitted that parents need to assist in having safe relationships,” Tinnie said.

HARMFUL SOCIAL NORMS Tinnie explained that 104 persons were engaged during the research; 25 of them were males who were sexually abused and 35 were parents and staff who counselled the children. This core group was referred to the NGO by the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA).

During the research, the NGO discovered that one of the harmful social norms was the lack of affection showed in homes.

“In our homes, our children interpret love as when parents buy things for them, when parents get food and other tangible things for them,” Tinnie said.

As a result, the NGO opined that this places boys at risk for sexual abuse because they can get this affection from the perpetrators.

Lack of supervision was also recognised as a harmful social norm for boys and put them more at risk because it was found that parents allow ‘boys to be boys’ while the same is not extended to the girls. And so, boys can stay out of the house for long periods and hang out with their friends with little to no supervision.

“Even though this is known, the practice of leaving boys unsupervised in outdoor activities still persists, so we have to understand as a society that this places male children at risk of abuse,” Tinnie emphasised.

Additionally, lack of communication in the home between parents and their sons was identified as harm-

- more cases go undetected, says ChildLink sense of fear.

“A child who is battling with fear cannot function as they would previously to the abuse,” he said.

He further stated that when a child is abused, there are a number of effects or implications for that child.

In the research conducted, it was found that children are most likely to experience emotional changes which may lead to depression, anger and trust issues and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These can cause nightmares and flashbacks.

It was shared that the self-esteem of the child is also sometimes taken to its lowest point where the child experiences feelings of being a bad person and his self-worth is even adversely affected.

TURN TO PAGE 21

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Legal luminary Stanley Moore...

FROM PAGE 16

at the institution.

“I was one of four students to sit and pass the Cambridge Higher Certificate Examinations, there.”

After completing his high school education, Moore entered the world of work. He said that he was employed as a pupil teacher for one year and he taught at his

old elementary school, St. James the Less, and St. Barnabas Primary.

Teaching, he said, gave him the foundation he needed to build his career. In furthering his develop-

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

ment, he was among the selected few to be employed as an officer at Customs and Excise for Her Majesty, the Queen’s Customs in British Guiana.

A young Stanley Moore (right) and a colleague during his tenure in Her Majesty’s Customs Department as a Customs Officer The position was prestigious since in the Colonial days, nonWhites were not allowed to hold certain positions in the public service.

However, by that time the British Empire was starting to lose its ruling grip on Guyana (then British Guiana).

In those days, only certain types of people were permitted to apply for certain jobs.

“I can tell you of instances where newspapers would advertise vacancies, but cautioned persons that if they were not fair in complexion with straight hair, they needed not apply.”

By 1960, Moore had married his first wife, Solita McKenzie, and they had two children. They divorced 12 years later.

THE LIFE OF LAW Meanwhile, it was while working at Customs and Excise that he developed an interest in the law.

“I knew I could not afford the funds to study formally, so I began the course by self-tuition.”

However, as fate would have it, the aspirant lawyer would cross paths with a Guyanese scholar named Frederick Wills who would later became his mentor.

“Mr. Wills was conducting classes for law students and I joined the class,” Moore said. He regarded the opportunity to be taught by Wills as most esteemed and humbling given the fact that he was among students who would later be described as some of Guyana’s veteran and distinguished legal minds.

Those who heaped praises on Moore included Senior Counsel Rex Mc Kay – whom Moore regards as another mentor; former Chancellor of the Judiciary and former Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Desiree Bernard; former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Aubrey Fitz-Ronald Bishop; former Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Duke Pollard and former Solicitor General of Guyana, Mohamed Ayube Ali Mc Doom.

During this time, Moore made yet another career shift, which allowed him to further his studies.

He went to work as a manager at the Booker’s Enterprise, a Londonbased firm which controlled some 30 percent of the country’s economy.

However, on the advice of Fredrick Wills, he sat the London University examination and was successful in obtaining his LLB degree and later resigned from Booker’s Enterprise.

Moore now had his sights set on furthering his legal studies at a London-based institution.

“It was an amicable separation. It was on such good terms that they offered to take me on one of their ships to London,” Moore said noting that the journey took 11 days on the ship.

Once in England, Moore enrolled at the Lincoln Inn University to study for the English Bar examination. By 1970, Moore had already completed his final bar exams and acquired a Commonwealth scholarship to read for a Master Degree (LLM) at the University College of London.

Moore’s career led him later to serve as acting Magistrate and Judge for a short period.

In further reflecting on his life’s journey, he said there was a brief stint in politics.

He recalled that in 1981, he was appointed under Linden Forbes Burnham’s Administration to serve as Minister of Home Affairs, but resigned after serving for one year.

“It was rather brief but I think everyone, at that time, had agreed that the Cabinet was too large, so I offered to resign, and this was understood in a press statement by Mr. Burnham.”

Moore said he grew up a stone’s throw away from the former President who knew of his capacity and capabilities as a lawyer.

His other political positions included Attorney General of Montserrat and later acting Governor of Montserrat.

The lawyer notes that the latter, which he served for two years (1990-1992), is equivalent to the post of a Caribbean Prime Minister or an Executive President.

Given his association with politics, Moore was appointed as a Member of Parliament in both Guyana and Montserrat. He believes that he was quite fortunate to hold the positions.

He said he was merely looking for work, to be close to his second wife, Cheryl Pickering, who was working as a pilot in Antigua, when he applied for a government job and landed the appointment.

With his interest in justice never waning, the lawyer also took up senior judicial positions in The Bahamas, Grenada, and the British Virgin Islands.

He would later serve in Botswana and the Kingdom of Eswatini before returning to private practice.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Venezuelan man stabbed to death during argument - wife among five in police custody

Headquarters, enquiries thus far revealed that the 19-year-old suspect came home and met his wife

FELIPE Galaviz, a Venezuelan, was on Friday stabbed to his neck in a confrontation with another Venezuelan man at Oronoque, Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD), Region One. According to Divisional Commander, Su-

perintendent Himnauth Sawh, the incident occurred at about 23:30 hours and was reported to the police on Saturday at 00:45 hours.

Ranks from the Mabaruma Police Station were deployed to the scene.

According to Police

Almost 1,000 cases...

FROM PAGE 19 In most cases, the research showed that children are likely to self-isolate; they prefer not to communicate or interact with anyone and unfortunately some die by suicide.

According to the research, children may have challenges in school and with their health especially if they contract sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) after being abused.

RECOMMENDATIONS Tinnie, in his presentation of the research’s report, shared some recommendations to either edify, avoid or deal with sexual abuse.

“Communication between parent and child - children need to have the knowledge to protect themselves and to be aware,” he recommended.

Additionally, he said when speaking about communication, boys must feel comfortable enough to articulate their feelings and they must feel as though they have a safe space to communicate with their parents.

This will encourage them to be more expressive and will contribute to their protection.

Targetted public education programmes were also recommended, as there is a need to change certain perceptions about boys where it is believed that boys are invulnerable to abuse or harm.

“We need society, as a whole, to be aware of the fact that boys are vulnerable to child sexual abuse,” he shared.

Another key recommendation was parental skills training.

“Parental skills training needs to be accessible to parents, so we need government and civil society to ensure that parents have access to parental skills training,” Tinnie said.

Collaboration with the CPA and financial security is another recommendation.

“Because while the research did not establish that financial security or poverty contributes or may be a contributing factor to child sexual abuse, what we found is that because the boys were enticed by tangible things like money from perpetrators, there is a possibility that there is a relationship there,” Tinnie noted.

So, he said, there is need to see how a system can be developed which acknowledges and addresses the financial insecurity of parents given the fact that some parents are willing to accept the alternative of settling or engaging for a settlement with perpetrators.

and Galaviz consuming alcohol.

Police said an argument ensued among them which led to a confrontation and the victim was subsequently stabbed to

his neck and shoulder by the suspect.

Galaviz was rushed to the Port Kaituma Hospital where he was treated but succumbed to his injuries. Five persons,

including the wife of the suspect are in custody assisting with the ongoing investigation.

Police are currently looking for the suspect who fled the scene.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Police outposts for Mandela Ave. to Eccles roadway TWO police outposts are soon expected to be placed at both ends of the recently commissioned Mandela Avenue to Eccles Four-Lane highway as police enhance their presence.

This was confirmed

(western lane heading to G/town).

Budhram explained that the police outposts, once in place, are expected to aid and further enhance traffic control and crime detection in both Divisions (4A and 4B).

Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ (ag) Ravindradat Budhram (at left), Commander of Region 4’A’, Assistant Commissioner Simon McBean and another rank discuss plans for the police outposts that will be established on the eastern lane heading to Eccles (Police Force photo)

by Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ (ag), Ravindradat Budhram, who, along with Commander of Region 4’A’, Assistant Commissioner Simon McBean, visited the area on Friday to identify potential areas where the outposts can be placed.

According to Police Headquarters, it is expected that one of the police outpost will be placed about 400 metres away from the Mandela Avenue Roundabout (eastern lane heading to Eccles), while the other one will be placed the same distance away from the turn that leads to the highway from Eccles

The new road link, which was commissioned by President Dr Irfaan Ali, on Thursday last, will see an ease of traffic congestion that affects commuters from the East and West Bank of Demerara.

Accompanying Deputy Commissioner Budhram and Assistant Commissioner McBean on the visit were Officer-incharge of the Construction Department, Assistant Superintendent Singh; Assistant Superintendent Nedd (4A); Woman Chief Inspector Debbie Handy (4B); Inspector Boyce (4A); Inspector Henry (4B) along with other ranks.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

GCB embarks on... Liverpool beat Man City 3-2 to reach FA Cup final

FROM BACK PAGE

“ We trust that those responsible will make full use of the gear and look forward to seeing talented players come out from the scheduled programmes and the rise in standard of cricket being played locally.”

Further, Singh commended the ECB for its proactive approach to cricket development, having just been elected, and the new executives being able to conduct major development activities within a short space of time.

He said, “This includes the ECB Under-15 training and competition activities and the coordinating of a coaching education programme. This is an enormous feat and I implore you to build on this foundation you have set.”

President of the ECB, Deleep Singh, was high in praise for the GCB president and the GCB. He indicated that his executives and all affiliate committees are grateful for such an enormous contribution. The ECB president pointed out that the value of the gear goes beyond its $4M worth.

This quantity and way of distribution will enable many players to freely access gear and to participate in development activities.

He indicated that several children interested in playing the game can now focus on getting themselves to the ground in appropriate attire and participate in the development activities.

The ECB head stressed that his board would continue to create the environment for players to grow and look forward to sustained energy and continued support from the members of the seven ECB committees.

Bartica Regatta Power...

FROM BACK PAGE Kenneth Williams, who is also Chairman of the Regatta Committee has informed that all systems are in place for a successful event which is being dubbed, ‘Bounce Back’.

The community of Bartica and, by extension all Guyanese, are eagerly awaiting this event, as you know we are coming back after two years, and this, as you know, is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Regatta also presents a huge opportunity to boost the economics of our vendors and other service providers.”

Williams is expressing gratitude to the corporate community who, he said, had come on board at short notice to make the shortened edition of Regatta a success. He noted that the football competition, which was organised by the Bartica Football Association and which ended last night, was also a success.

The list of sponsors are as follows: GTT, General Equipment, Guyana (Ltd), Aruwai Resort White H2O, Banks DIH Ltd., B&R Imperium Gold Mining Inc., Digicel, Bolo Store, Sir Service Station, Mohamed’s Enetrprise, Team Mohamed’s, Nelly Boat House, Nizam Kassim, M.I Yassin, M.F Yassin, Pandit & Sons, Ryan Variety, Ministry of Tourism, BK International, Distribution Services Ltd.

at the break but Jack Grealish pulled one back early in the second half and keeper Alisson twice saved crucially from Gabriel Jesus as this semi-final sprang to life.

Bernardo Silva pulled another back for City at the start of a tense period of stoppage time but Liverpool survived to face either Chelsea or Crystal Palace, who meet at Wembley today, in the final May 14.

Manchester City keeper Zack Steffen was at fault for Liverpool’s second goal LIVERPOOL survived a late scare to remain on course for a historic quadruple as they reached the FA Cup final with victory over Manchester City at Wembley.

If last Sunday’s Premier League meeting between the clubs was a classic, this semi-final was effectively decided, in a one-sided first 45 minutes, in which a mixture of ruthless finishing and Manchester City mistakes saw Liverpool take a 3-0 lead.

An under-strength City were unable to recover as Liverpool, having won the Carabao Cup, are now in the FA Cup final too - as well as the last four of the Champions League, while sitting second in the Premier League.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who was unable to start with Kevin de Bruyne and had Kyle Walker out injured, preferred Zack Steffen to Ederson in goal, a move that backfired spectacularly.

Ibrahima Konate had already headed Liverpool in front after nine minutes when Steffen, trying to repeat the feats of Ederson in the league game between these two clubs, mis-controlled in his six-yard area, allowing Sadio Mane to pounce.

Mane beat Steffen with a crisp volley at the end of a superb Liverpool build-up to put Jurgen Klopp’s side in complete command

LIVERPOOL ON COURSE FOR HISTORY Liverpool’s win keeps them in contention to make history - as no team in English football have won the league title, the two main domestic cup competitions and become champions of Europe in the same season.

This was a win built on the foundation of a first half in which their intensity and ruthlessness proved too much for City, whose revamped side looked off the pace and unable to cope with the power of Klopp’s side.

Konate’s power in the air saw him score his third header in his past three starts and Mane’s alertness was never going to allow Steffen to get away with his hesitation as he attempted to keep possession in the six-yard area.

Ederson had the calmness and expertise to escape almost on his goal-line as Diogo Jota bore down on him during last Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Etihad Stadium but Steffen showed no such expertise or composure, and paid a heavy price as he was caught.

Mane led the Liverpool charge while Thiago was imperious in midfield, his clever pass allowing Mane to volley past Steffen at his near post in the closing moments of the first half for what eventually proved to be the winner.

Klopp was elated with his team’s performance at the conclusion, although he will have concerns about how they allowed City back into the game through Grealish’s goal, conceded two clear chances to Jesus then had to survive the anxiety of four minutes of stoppage time after Silva struck.

In the final reckoning, however, Liverpool deserved to reach the final and will present a formidable barrier to either Chelsea or Crystal Palace once the winner of the second semi-final is decided. (BBC Sport)

Ronaldo smashes hat-trick to give Manchester United edge over Norwich

COMETH the hour, cometh Cristiano Ronaldo for seemingly the umpteenth time this season to save Manchester United.

After 75 minutes the score was level and Ralf Rangnick’s side were teetering on the brink of yet another capitulation after holding a two-goal lead. But then Ronaldo smashed a 25-yard free-kick in, off Tim Krul’s right post and that was 3-2 and a second hat-trick since March 12 for a 37-year-old who now has 15 Premier League goals this season.

Until his intervention this contest was being written up as the latest surrender of a sorry season from Rangnick’s band. Today’s theme had been lax marking and errant defensive positioning: both Kieran Dowell and Teemu Pukki benefited from amateurish execution of basic tenets of the game.

Norwich deserved maximum credit for their fightback from a 2-0 deficit and the result was heading for the last thing United needed after the dire 1-0 loss at Everton, especially against the backdrop of renewed protests against the Glazer family’s ownership that began before kick-off.

But Ronaldo’s supreme career is built on him penning the narrative and, with Arsenal losing at Southampton, United are up to fifth and three points behind Tottenham who were also defeated yesterday.

What ended in the right result for United had also begun brightly in late spring sunshine. They were in control precisely as they should be against the league’s bottom-placed side who arrived here seven points from safety. There was a hogging of possession that fluttered about 62% in the first half and, most vitally, there were goals.

The first came on seven minutes. United fanned out to pressure a restart from Krul. He tapped the ball to Ben Gibson who fed it to Dimitris Giannoulis. The left-back returned it but Gibson dawdled, it was pilfered by Anthony Elanga and when the youngster passed to Ronaldo he rolled home. Cue the latter and former doing Ronaldo’s trademark jump-and-turn celebration to cries of “siuuu” from jubilant fans hailing their Portuguese hero.

The opener was a function of Elanga’s hunger to hunt the ball down. United’s second came from a corner and was close to a carbon copy of Ronaldo’s late winner against Tottenham, which came from the same brute strength and aerial prowess on display here.

Alex Telles, in for Luke Shaw who may not return from injury until next season, flighted over a corner from the right and Ronaldo’s leap was the familiar one: an almost cartoonish show of power

and height as the hapless Gibson was bulldozed aside and Krul was beaten once more.

It gave United a cushion that, surely, would allow them to pitter-patter passes around, move their opponent out of position, accumulate more goals and clinch a confidence-boosting victory.

A sweet sequence that featured the type of football that has been largely AWOL this term emphasised that feeling: Paul Pogba curved a ball right that hit Elanga, he switched it left to Jadon Sancho and his dazzling feet allowed him to go close to creating a third for Ronaldo.

Yet, by the 52nd minute United had twice been exposed. First

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates with teammates Manchester United’s victory over Norwich Pukki fashioned a one-two with Giannoulis that punched holes in the home defence. The Finn popped over a cross and Dowell headed in.

Next came a role reversal: the No, 10 passed beyond Victor Lindelöf to Pukki, who stepped forward to pinball the equaliser in off David de Gea’s left post.

This collapse was United’s season in microcosm and the question was what might follow from the protesters if the score remained or became worse for Rangnick’s men. Throughout choruses of “we want Glazers out” and “you’re not fit to wear the shirt”, as well as chants directed at Pogba when he was substituted, were heard.

Ronaldo, though, had the final word.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Superb Rahul ton steers Super Giants to Ben Stokes should be England captain - Vaughan victory over win less Mumbai Indians

BEN Stokes should replace Joe Root as England Test captain, says former England skipper Michael Vaughan. Root, who captained England for five years, stepped down from the role on Friday.

Vaughan told the BBC’s Test Match Special podcast that vice-captain Stokes was best placed to take over but would need support.

“I don’t see anyone else who could take the position and be guaranteed of their place in the side,” Vaughan said.

“In Ben Stokes you have clearly got someone who has got a smart cricket brain, he’s going to give it everything; he is certainly going to have the respect of the players around him.”

Stokes took a break from cricket in July for his mental wellbeing but returned to the England squad for the Ashes series.

The all-rounder has not been training after suffering pain in his left knee during England’s tour of the West Indies in March but he is hoping to make a return to county side Durham next month.

“Stokes is everything in a person and a player that you would want but he will need a lot of support around him because when you have got that all-rounder tag and they’ve got that persona they think they can do everything,” Vaughan said.

“You need a senior core around him to give him a few pointers.

“You need to have someone say ‘listen Ben, just concentrate on what you’re really good at’ and that’s out on the field, mak-

Ben Stokes has played in 79 Tests, 101 OneDay internationals and 34 Twenty20s for England ing decisions and trying to just give us your best performance.”

The 30-year-old captained a young England side to a 3-0 ODI series victory against Pakistan last summer after a COVID-19 outbreak caused England to name an entirely new 18-man squad.

“If he performs like we know he can he will lead the team by example,” Vaughan

added.

However, BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew said he had concerns about Stokes possibly succeeding Root.

“There are so few candidates that it rules out any kind of longterm appointment,” Agnew said.

“Someone like Ben Stokes could be one if he is fit enough, but I do not know if it is good for Stokes or for English cricket if he was saddled with the captaincy.

“You look back at the big characters that have captained England like Ian Botham, Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff they have all failed as captains.

We all want Stokes to go out there and express himself.”

Choosing the next captain will be the first task for the new management hierarchy, with England in the process of appointing a new managing director and head coach following the departures of Ashley Giles and Chris Silverwood after the Ashes.

Root led England for a record 64 Tests and won more (27) and lost more (26) than any other man to have led the side, though only one of those victories came in the last 17 Tests.

It had been expected that any decision on his future would only be made with the new managing director and head coach in place. (BBC Sport)

KL Rahul knocked a freewheeling century to steer Lucknow Super Giants to an 18-run victory as they inflicted a sixth defeat of the season upon Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The Super Giants captain muscled 103 not out off 60 balls to guide his side to an unassailable 199-4 yesterday.

(Scores: Lucknow Super Giants 199 for 4 (Rahul 103*, Pandey 38, Unadkat 2-32) beat Mumbai Indians (Suryakumar 37, Brevis 31, Avesh 3-30) by 18 runs) Suryakumar Yadav mustered a side-best 37 for the Indians in response, but their spirited attempts to capture a first win of the campaign fell short.

Rahul had showcased some typical virtuosity over the past few weeks with the Super Giants, including a patient 68 in victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad.

But his effort here was of the more explosively entertaining kind, with the tone set by fifth-over frenzy off Tyrone Mills and capped with an exquisite six.

Able support from Quinton de Kock (24) and Manish Pandey (38) helped drive the Indians,

despite Jaydev Unadkat’s 2-32 bowling figures.

Any hopes of a response from the Indians looked in jeopardy when they were reduced to 57-3, before Yadav and Tilak Varma mounted a sturdy 64-run fourth-wicket partnership.

Kieron Pollard and Unadkat combined to leave the hosts needing an ambitious 26 off the last over, but three wickets in those final six balls ended any

sixes, the opening batter led from the front, with an impressive strike rate of 171.66, while Avesh Khan led the way with the ball, taking 3-30.

LUCKLESS MUMBAI INDIANS CONTINUE BARREN RUN It has been six games and six losses across the start of the 2022 campaign now for Mumbai, and their hopes of making the playoffs truly look to be in

KL Rahul hit his second IPL ton against Mumbai Indians, this one a 60-ball 103* (BCCI photo) hopes.

RAHUL DELIVERS CAPTAIN’S KNOCK Taking to the crease for the first ball alongside wicketkeeper de Kock, the India star turned in a contender for the performance of the tournament to date with his assured strokes.

With nine fours and five

tatters.

On the back of Wednesday’s loss to Punjab Kings, it is the second game in a row where their margin of defeat has clocked in under the 20-run mark, but it is still a painful streak they are yet to buck. (Sportsmax)

Hawks, Pelicans clinch Another Karthik blitz takes RCB final NBA play-off spots

to third on the points table

DINESH Karthik led the way with strong support from Glenn Maxwell and Josh Hazlewood as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) snatched a 16-run win over Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The win meant Royal Challengers moved up to third on the points-table with eight points from six games. Above them are Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, also with eight points each but at a better net run rate.

After losing last time out to the previously winless Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Bangalore were in big trouble early in yesterday’s game when they slipped to 92-5.

(Scores: Royal Challengers Bangalore 189 for 5 (Karthik 66*, Maxwell 55; Thakur 1-27) beat Delhi Capitals 173 for 7 (Warner 66, Pant 34;, Hazlewood 3-28) by 16 runs) Maxwell was the only batter among the top five to make a substantial contribution, and

when he fell for 55 in the 12th over it looked a tall order for the team to post a healthy total.

Wi c k e t k e e p e r- b a t t e r Karthik had other ideas though, and together with Shahbaz Ahmed, who made 32 from 21 balls, he took on the Delhi attack with gusto.

Karthik bludgeoned 66 not out from 34 balls, with five fours and five sixes, taking 28 off the 18th over as Mustafizur Rahman came in for brutal treatment.

A total of 189-5 still looked on the low side as Delhi made a fast start to their reply, but losing David Warner for 66, lbw to Wanindu Hasaranga, heralded the start of a collapse from 94-1 to 115-5.

Rishabh Pant looked to have his eye in but fell to a sharp catch by Virat Kohli as the Capitals saw victory hopes ebb away at the Wankhede Stadium, stalling on 173-7 in the end.

KARTHIK OVERSHADOWS

MAXWELL’S MILESTONE KNOCK It was going to take something special to top Maxwell’s 34-ball effort, in what was the Australian’s 100th IPL game, and Karthik duly came up with a spectacular innings.

The veteran is proving highly successful in the role of finisher, and because he has been dismissed just once in this year’s IPL, his batting average stands at 197, the highest of all players.

HURRAH FOR HAZLEWOOD Hazlewood took 3-28 and removed Rovman Powell and Lalit Yadav in the same over as Delhi began to crumble.

This was just the Australia paceman’s second game of the 2022 IPL campaign and it boded well for what he might offer for the rest of the campaign. For now, this win lifts Bangalore to third place with four wins from six matches, while Delhi sit eighth. (Sportsmax)

THE Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Pelicans clinched the final spots in the NBA playoffs with victories in their deciding play-in games on Friday.

H a w k s ’ Tr a e Yo u n g scored 32 of his game-high 38 points in the second half to inspire his side to a 107-101 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Pelicans then beat Los Angeles Clippers 105-101 with Brandon Ingram top-scoring with 30 points.

As eighth seeds, both teams will face the top-seeded side in their division.

For Hawks, that means an upcoming trip to Florida to face Miami Heat in the first round of the Eastern Conference play-offs, while in the Western Conference play-offs Pelicans will take on Phoenix Suns with game one of both best-of-seven series set for today.

It marks the first time Pelicans have reached the play-offs since the 2017-18 season, while Hawks reached the Eastern Conference fi-

Trae Young led Atlanta Hawks into the play-offs nals last season where they were beaten by eventual NBA champions Milwaukee Bucks.

NBA play-offs first round fixtures Eastern Conference Miami Heat (1) v Atlanta Hawks (8) Philadelphia 76ers (4) v Toronto Raptors (5) Milwaukee Bucks (3) v Chi-

cago Bulls (6) Boston Celtics (2) v Brooklyn Nets (7) Western Conference Phoenix Suns (1) v New Orleans Pelicans (8) Dallas Mavericks (4) v Utah Jazz (5) Golden State Warriors (3) v Denver Nuggets (6) Memphis Grizzlies (2) v Minnesota Timberwolves (7)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

Toronto Cup rebranded Canada Cup Mayor’s Cup football action … Three-day softball extravaganza set for Labour Day weekend

By Frederick Halley IN 2015, 2017 and 2019, the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) successfully staged the Toronto Cup international tournaments. This year the tournament is being rebranded Canada Cup 1 under the aegis of the Ontario Twilight Softball Cricket League (OTSCL), headed by past OMSCC president Azeem Khan.

Set for Labour Day weekend, September 2, 3 and 4 at various venues in Toronto, the three-day extravaganza is expected to feature teams from host Canada, New York, Florida, Guyana and Orlando and will be played in three categories – All Stars Open, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50.

The organisers are aiming for a total of 22 teams with eight each in the All Stars Open and Masters Over-40 and six in the Legends Over-50 with teams being accepted on a first-come basis. An exhibition Over-60 game is also planned for the day of the finals.

According to the organising committee, the objective is to

FLASHBACK: Trophy Stall proprietor, Ramesh Sunich, poses with his collection of trophies at the 2019 finals ensure that Canada Cup 1 is a memorable and special event for all especially for the out-ofcountry teams while maintaining the image of “we look forward to playing in Canada anytime”.

The OTSCL is in its first year and is also in the process of playing its first full season this year and, according to a release, it is led by a management committee comprising individuals with a proven track record in the area of managing softball cricket

in Ontario.

The Canada Cup 1 organising committee includes former OMSCC executive members Feizal Bacchus and Dickey Singh and well-known Guyana Chronicle freelance journalist Frederick Halley. The OTSCL intends to engage a few others in the committee shortly.

The weekend tournament will start off with an Opening Night reception on Thursday, September 1 for participat-

ing teams while games will be played in the Toronto area, starting on Friday morning with the finals on Sunday, followed by a presentation ceremony.

Toronto’s Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson, who was a special guest at the finals in 2019, was quite impressed with the proceedings, praising Khan and his executives for their great initiative in hosting the tournament.

Thompson who was presented with a plaque for his unstinted support pointed out that the softball tournament was a demonstration of the skills of the players. He had assured then that the city was working assiduously to ensure more cricket fields are made accessible to the community.

The previous three Toronto Cup tournaments saw Trophy Stall providing sponsorship for all the winners’ trophies in all three categories – All Stars Open, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50.

Meanwhile, interested teams are sked to contact OTSCL president, azeem. khan@otscl.ca or on 647-2988286.

Surrey seamers take 13 Hampshire wickets on day three to win by an innings GARETH Batty claimed his first win as Surrey’s new coach as the former England spinner’s seam attack ran through Hampshire to take 13 wickets on day three and win by an innings.

Jamie Overton took six of them as he claimed Hampshire’s last three first-innings scalps, to bowl out the visitors for 223, then three more in the second.

Jordan Clark (4-55) and James Taylor (3-56) helped Overton (3-53) finish it.

Joe Weatherley (87) and skipper James Vince (57) put up the main resistance.

Their half-centuries matched the one from Keith Barker, who moved on from his overnight 21, to finish Hampshire’s first-innings as top scorer on 57.

Surrey managed to win despite being a bowler short as West Indies paceman Kemar Roach spent the day off the field injured.

They are back in action on Thursday when they host Somerset at The Oval - an interesting match-up of the two Overton twins.

Hampshire also start their next game that day against Kent at Canterbury.

SURREY HEAD COACH GARETH BATTY: “It’s very pleasing because although it’s still April and early days, we have just beaten the team who were on top of Division One after the first week and we played some great cricket.

during the winter. He made some small technical changes and it’s exciting to see him bowl like that in his first Championship game this season.

“James Taylor also performed brilliantly for a 21-yearold and it is particularly good

here, a lot of boys who have come through our system and, with Kemar Roach getting injured early in Hampshire’s first innings, the four main bowlers who were left really stuck to their task throughout the last two days.

set for Buxton ground today

FOOTBALL fans on the East Coast can look forward to a healthy serving of football action today when the Buxton ground comes alive with competition in the Annual Mayor’s Cup 9-a-side Inter-Ward/Village knockout football tournament.

Teams are in the hunt for the few remaining quarter-final places and the contests promise to be intense. Today’s play at Buxton commences from 18:00hrs with New Amsterdam against Turkeyen. That will be followed by Airy Hall facing City Strikers then Tucville opposing Smythtown and Timehri battling Mahaicony in the preliminary matches.

Following those games, the winners collide for a place in the quarters. Two key games will close out the night, with Friendship Front colliding with Road Warriors and BV opposing Bourda All Stars. The winners will secure places in the quarterfinals.

With further changes to the fixtures on the original programme due to unforeseen circumstances, organiser and former national footballer and coach, Lennox Arthur, has fixed games for the Den Amstel ground next Sunday April 24 from 14:00hrs when the tournament continues.

Pouderoyen are down to face Stewartville, Sara Lodge challenge Back Street Kings, Den Amstel battle Uitvlugt and West Side Spartan tangle with Bagotville. The winners will collide after that to claim their quarter-final spots.

Arthur informed that the grand finale is set for May 1 at Buxton with the quarters, semis and finale to close the curtain on this 2022 edition of the Mayor’s Cup, in honour of current Mayor of Georgetown, Mayor Ubraj Narine.

Several leading footballers are expected to be on show and among them are Gregory Richardson, Jamaal Harvey, Ryan Hackett, Jeremy Garnett and Delon Lanferman.

Haslington and Sparta Boss were the early teams through to the quarterfinals and a keen battle is promised today and next Sundaym April 24, for the remaining places in the quarters.

Maggie’s has joined the list of sponsors which include: IPA, DDL, Digicel, Johil, John Fernandes, General Equipment, Busta, GTT, NAMILCO, MACORP, New Thriving, Sattar Gafoor, B. Megan, Pritipaul Singh, Ready Mix, Eddie Bobcat, Silvie’s, Caribbean Containers, E Networks, SuperBet, Cummings Electrical, China Trading, Dave Lumber Yard, Schlumberger, Pure Diamond, Gold Target Exports and CIDI. Arthur has expressed heartfelt gratitude to them for their assistance.

The teams are battling for attractive caxh prizes and the respective trophies, with a first prize of $600 000, second prize $300 000, third $200 000 and fourth $100 000 on offer. Mid Atlantic Oil and Gas Company is the sponsor for the winning purse of $600 000.

The rules governing the tournament include: the no-offside rule and teams are allowed five substitutions. The games are of two 20-minute segments for a 40-minute duration. The tournament is a straight knockout one with no extra time being played. A tie at the end of regulation would result in the teams duelling in the dreaded sudden-death penalty shootout.

All other FIFA rules apply and the referee is the sole authority of these games. Teams who show up late beyond a reasonable time, determined by the organisers, will be disqualified and their game forfeited via the walk-over route.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Jamie Overton was Surrey’s star performer with match figures of 8-107 “What we saw from Jamie Overton in this match, especially in their first innings, was very special. His bowling was really electric. He’s one of those who has put in some serious work

for all the players who have worked extremely hard over the winter months, preparing for this season, to begin to see the fruits of that work.

“We have a very tight group

“There are a lot of sore bodies in the dressing room but it’s good to show everyone we can win tough. Then again, it’s early days so we won’t get carried away.(BBC Sport)

(Sunday April 17, 2022) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to Friday’s quiz: (1) Sohail Tanvir-22 wickets (2) Sohail Tanvir-6/14 (RR vs CSK) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many centuries were scored in IPL 2008?

(2) How many five-wicket hauls were bagged in the inaugural IPL? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

31

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

GFF selects 20 youngsters for historic UEFA-sponsored U16 trip to Europe

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has selected the final roster for the nation’s first participation in a UEFA-sanctioned competition, with 20 players making the grade in the Under-16 Boys’ national squad, bound for the experience of a lifetime in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Facilitated by UEFA Assist, the Junior Jaguars will play Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lithuania and Montenegro in a unique development tournament in southeast Europe this month, following a nationwide search for talent and weeks of intensive preparation at the GFF National Training Centre in Providence.

The Under-16 squad making history for Guyana this month comprises Shemaiah Samuels, Troy Gibson, Omar Sam, Shakem Welcome, Matrim Martin, Reegan Lewis, Herman Gill, Christopher Whitter, William Escarraga, Hemant Khedoo, Jayden Culley, Bryan Wharton, Elon Anderson, Travis Williams, Jaden Harris, Gerry-Mayer Burnette, Swade Edwards, Dexter Milo, Seon Cato and Kvist Paul.

The players and staff will be hoping to make a positive impression on European audiences as well as to impress national selectors ahead of CONCACAF Under-17 Championship qualifiers in August.

“It means a lot for us, for Guyana’s football, and for our

The players and management team with officials of the GFF development,” Mills said.

“This is part of nation-building, networking and development in the whole for football because it forces us, as a small nation, to work hard to implement ideas, philosophies, methodologies and best practices that UEFA might have for us to improve ourselves.”

“With tournaments like these, our football can really explode and take off,” Mills continued. “I am really glad for these youngsters, who will be participating in this tournament – they will never stop talking about the experience of being the first team to represent Guyana internationally in Europe.”

Guyana will play Bosnia and Herzegovina on April 19,

Lithuania on April 21, and Montenegro on April 24. Hosts Bosnia have ranked as high as 13th in FIFA’s world rankings, but currently lie in 59th place, with Lithuania in 138th place and Montenegro, who have previously peaked at 16th, in 70th position.

The unprecedented opportunity for some of Guyana’s most promising young talent to perform at international level on the European stage is the direct result of the GFF’s sustained focus to foster a strong relationship with UEFA and other international football partners as part of its efforts to strengthen Guyana’s standing and image in the football world.

“The opportunity we have been granted by UEFA is truly a

watershed moment for the GFF, which punctuates the importance of international relations in football,” said GFF president Wayne Forde.

“These young boys have been given a huge responsibility to make a first impression of Guyana within the European football space, both on and off the field of play. They are now our ambassadors, and I am extremely proud of the confidence and eagerness with which they have embraced this responsibility.”

Forde said the weather, opposition and conditions in Bosnia will likely pose a challenge for the players, observing that “a great deal of learning will undoubtedly take place and we all have to manage our expec-

tations”.

“I would like to thank the boys’ parents for trusting the GFF and our technical staff with the care and protection of their sons as they set off on this historic journey,” he concluded.

GFF Assistant Technical Director, Bryan Joseph, said he was pleased with the preparations so far under the leadership of coach Mills, and expected the whole group to rise to the occasion and represent Guyana to the best of their abilities in a spirit of fair play and respect.

“That will bring credence to the work we are putting into youth development across the football spectrum,” Joseph said. “I want to say special thank you to the team at UEFA

Assist and president Forde. It is testament to the vision of the organisation as we continue to make every effort to ensure our players get the necessary exposure and opportunities for them to fulfil their football potential.”

The staff list for the trip is as follows: Head Coach – Vurlon Mills Assistant Coach – Devnon Winter Goalkeeping Coach – Eon DeViera Fitness Coach – Wilson Toledo Team Manager – Randy King Team Doctor – Nico Alstrom Equipment Manager – Rawl Joseph, GFF Assistant Technical Director - Bryan Joseph

Jamaica men edge hosts to seal Games spot

HAMILTON, Bermuda, (CMC) – Jamaica men’s team booked their ticket to next year’s Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games after defeating Bermuda 1-0 in Friday’s hockey qualifier at the Flora Duffy Stadium, leaving the hosts and Puerto Rico to scrap it out for the remaining place in El Salvador.

Twenty-four hours after slumping to a crushing 4-1 defeat against the same opponents, a more resolute Bermuda looked set to secure a hard-earned point, but conceded with just over a minute remaining.

Bermuda goalkeeper Justin Dill parried Tyrone Vernon’s shot from Gian-Paul Haughton’s penalty corner and the ball fell to the unmarked Shemar Gordon to tap home.

Road to Redemption boxing championship

Promoters laud Armed Services, donate tickets ahead of fight

By Clifton Ross

GUYANA Boxing Board of Control president, Peter Abdool, and promoter Aleem Hussain recently paid a courtesy call on Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess, as they thanked the Armed Services for their continued work within the realm of sports, namely boxing.

Ahead of the April 23 Road to Redemption fight, Abdool and Hussain donated a large quantity of complimentary tickets. Brigadier Bess expressed his gratitude for the gesture and committed to working with ranks to ensure continuity in the performance of the boxing gym.

He stated that members of the gym will work with youths who are interested in the sport as a way to ensure that they occupy themselves meaningfully. “We will always support the endeavours of our ranks who venture into the field of boxing,” Brigadier Bess added.

Aleem Hussain, Nexgen Global Promotions “on behalf of Elton Dharry Promotions and Jack Bharat, I wish to present the mem-

From left: Major Keith Watts responsible for sports, Brigadier Godfrey Bess, promter Aleem Hussain, Boxing Board president Peter Abdool and coach Terrence Poole during their courtesy visit, ahead of the April 23 ‘Road to Redemption’ championship fight bers of the Armed Services with complimentary admission tickets to what will be the first-of-its-kind event in Guyana.

“We have similarly provided the other services, Guyana Police Force and Guyana Fire Service, with the same opportunity because it is important to recognise their selfless service on a daily basis to all Guyanese.”

Abdool was high in praise of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF)

Boxing Gym and its performance over the years. He praised the critical contribution of the GDF gym to local amateur boxing.

“GDF is pivotal to amateur boxing in Guyana. The discipline among GDF boxers always shows and this is commendable. Look at what is happening in amateur boxing and so this is the opportune time for there to be a return of the Inter-Service boxing competition”.

The Ministry of Culture,

Youth and Sport ensured that the greatest event had the biggest stage by allowing the action to take place inside the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, usually the home of CPL Guyana Amazon Warriors (cricket), thereby underlining the significance and importance of this return of World Championship Boxing to Guyana.

According to National Sports Commission Director, Steve Ninvalle, “The Ministry will be distributing 1 000 tickets to young persons and I believe that this is a key step towards rejuvenating the amateur ranks in boxing as it gives youngsters a chance to see boxing in the grandest setting.”

Despite the magnitude of the event which is expected to include a half-time music and cultural show, put on by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, ticket prices are just $1 000 for the Mound, $2 000 for Stands and $4 000 for Ringside.

A limited number of all-inclusive tables for 8, which will receive service from Hard Rock Café, are available by calling 6450944.

Part of the action in the Jamaica , Bermuda encounter Jamaica coach Duvaughn Henlon praised his team for achieving their CAC objective with a game to spare.

“We are happy with the win,” he said after his unbeaten side moved to seven points from three games.

“It was a hard-fought match and we are thankful. The team has played some very good hockey and we continue to build.

“It’s a young team, 10 players playing for the national team for the first time, so it’s a good showing and I am happy for the guys.

“The coaching staff and management staff has done a lot of work and it has paid off.”

Bermuda captain Samuel Thompson said: “It was very unfortunate.

“We did play extremely well, but it came down to the last minute unfortunately.

“We changed our structure around a little bit. The communication was a lot higher and the passing consistency was a lot higher as well, which allowed us to have a little bit more edge this time than we did the last.”

On Saturday, Jamaica play their final game against Puerto Rico while today, the hosts clash with Puerto Rico in the final game of the qualifiers.

Bahamian Strachan lands gold with record-breaking throw

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 17, 2022

49th CARIFTA Games

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – As expected, Keyshawn Strachan got the 49th CARIFTA Games off to a brilliant start with a massive performance in the Boys’ Under-20 javelin inside the National Stadium here yesterday.

The tall Bahamian improved both his personal best and the CARIFTA record with a mighty heave of 79.89 metres to clinch gold and headline the morning session of the region’s premier track and field meet.

Strachan cranked out the record with his first round throw, a huge effort that sailed past the orange-taped line set to indicate the old mark of 78.28 metres set

by Grenada’s Anderson Peters, six years ago.

In the process, Strachan added more than a full metre to his personal best of 78.63.

He arrived at the Games as the number one Under-20 javelinist in the world and will now

Bahamian Keyshawn Strachan landed gold in the boys’ Under-29 javaelin leave almost four metres clear of 17-year-old Gyorgy Herczeg of Hungary.

Anthony Diaz took silver for Trinidad and Tobago with a throw of 63.69, ahead of Jamai-

ca’s Christopher Young with a mark of 57.52 metres.

The javelin was the first event to be completed and soon after, Jamaica’s Danielle Noble outlasted the field to snatch gold

GCB embarks on gear distribution to drive development Essequibo receives $4M worth of gear, while Upper Demerara set to collect

in the Girls’ Under-17 high jump, holding her nerve to sail over a bar set at 1.73 metres.

Tenique Vincent of Trinidad and Tobago finished second at 1.65m and Jah’kyla Morton of

the British Virgin Islands claimed bronze at 1.60 metres.

The third final of the morning session saw the British Virgin Islands gain their first gold medal of the meet, thanks to Savianna Joseph in the Girls’ Under-17 shot put.

Her second throw taped 13.54 metres, far enough to deny Jamaica’s Natassia Burrell (13.10m) and Bahamian Terrell McCoy who threw 13 metres flat.

A growing crowd also saw qualifying in the 100 and 400 metres, adverse wind conditions buffeting sprinters in the 100 metres.

Adejah Hodge of the British Virgin Islands sparkled in the Under-17 100m heats with the fastest time of 11.54 seconds while Jamaica’s Deandre Daley topped all qualifiers in the Boys’ Under-20 100m with a clocking of 10.55 seconds.

The Under-17 Boys and Girls’ Under-20 100 metres fielded no

heats and will start at the semi-final stage in the afternoon session.

Meanwhile, Jamaicans led all qualifiers in the 400 metres, Abigail Campbell cruising to a winning time of 56.15 seconds in the Under-17 Girls’ heats, and Marcinho Rose (49.22), Onieka McAnuff (53.91) and Delano Kennedy (47.86) doing likewise in the Under-17 Boys, the Under-20 Girls and the Under-20 Boys.

The afternoon session begins at 16:00hrs (17:00hrs Eastern Caribbean time) when track action resumes with the semi-finals of the 100 metres.

The finals of the 400m and the 100m will conclude the first day of competition.

In the field, the region’s finest athletes will go head-to-head in the Boys’ and Girls’ Under-20 discus, Girls’ Under-20 triple jump, Boys’ Under-20 high jump, Boys’ Under-17 long jump, Boys’ octathlon and Girls’ heptathlon.

Bartica Regatta Power Boat Races make grand return today at Golden Beach

Dave Scott, aboard his Formula 1 Boat Jaguar, is aiming to capture 9th championship title

ECB president Deleep Singh (right) accepts the donation of cricket gear from GCB president Bissoondyal Singh THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) recently embarked on an empowerment exercise, which includes the distribution of several cricket gear.

This contribution is being made to support the county boards’ efforts in assisting their affiliates with the equipment required for training and matches.

Recently, Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) was the recipient of over $4M in equipment from the GCB. GCB president Bissoon-

dyal Singh was very enthusiastic about the occasion. He explained that given the relaxing of COVID-19 measures that several activities will be conducted across the country.

These activities involve both training and matches, so it will be essential for counties and associations to have an adequate quantity of cricket gear to support the player development plans. Singh said, “Among the GCB plans for 2022 are school cricket activities which will be

rolled out towards the end of April with training of 150 teachers from 75 primary schools.

This is to support a sponsored pilot project from a reputable commercial business. Once the teachers receive the necessary cricket training, attention will shift to the training pupils before the competition is played.

This is a sponsored project from a reputable commercial business. So, GCB felt there was need for this significant donation. TURN TO PAGE 28

FROM 09:00hrs today, the Town of Bartica would welcome with open arms the competitive return of the Easter Regatta Power Boat Races which have become a main staple and attraction on the Regatta calendar.

The Formula 1/Class A events (Unlimited Power) are expected to feature four boats being piloted by Dave Scott aboard ‘Jaguar’. He is aiming to rake in his 9th championship title of this event.

It is understood that Randy Belle and the Gonsalves from Pomeroon will be bringing two boats for this category.

Among the other races listed for today, all being lucrative, Class C (75-90HP), C l a s s B ( 11 5 - 2 0 0 H P ) , Class D (25-40HP), Class E (15HP), Jet Ski, Bush Boat, and the Woodskin/Canoe.

Regional Chairman, TURN TO PAGE 28

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Some of the trophies that would be up for grabs SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2022