Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 17-05-2022

TUESDAY 17th MAY, 2022

No. 106725

Major relief measures announced - other measures being considered in short to medium-term for other groups FROM

See stories on pages 3, 7 & 8

Foreign Direct Investments top US$4B in 2021

Major investors, donors on board Agri-Investment Forum and Expo

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Road Safety Council, minibus union welcome proposed ‘motor manslaughter’ charge, other penalties

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Major investors, donors on board Agri-Investment Forum and Expo

CARICOM’s Assistant Secretary-General, Joseph Cox, along with Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha at Monday’s press briefing (Adrian Narine photo)

By Naomi Parris

WITH over 500 delegates and 100 exhibitors slated to be present at the upcoming Agri-Investment forum and expo, the event is anticipated to be the largest gathering of regional heads, investors, donors, and agriculture stakeholders in the Caribbean.

This is according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who on Monday at a press briefing at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre told reporters that some 550 delegates have registered to participate in the significant threeday event commencing on Thursday, May 19.

“This investment forum and expo will be the largest gathering of leaders and exhibitors for an agriculture-related event in Guyana and possible [sic] in the region,” Mustapha said.

The grand exposition which will be held under the theme, “Investing in vision 25 by 2025’ will also see a total of 100 exhibitors from various countries across the world, along

with local agro-processors who will be showcasing a diverse line up of agricultural produce.

The minister also disclosed that fruitful discussions with the participating states and

at least 12 donor agencies are anticipated at the event. He is optimistic that when the forum kicks off, more donor agencies will come on board.

The event is being held as the Caribbe-

an Community (CARICOM) takes decisive steps to reduce its US$6B food-importation bill by 25 per cent in the next five years (25 by 25).

“The three-day event commencing on Thursday will provide an opportunity for potential investors to contribute to food and nutrition security, with a view to identifying specific areas in which investment is needed to overcome existing structural and operational challenges,” Mustapha said.

Meanwhile, CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General, Joseph Cox, who also spoke at the press briefing, noted that the highly anticipated conference is an answer to a prayer and a solution to reducing the CARICOM’s food-import bill.

“This has represented a prayer of hope, what we have here is an opportunity before us, an opportunity for effective partnership between [sic] the state, governments, and private sectors.”

He noted that the response from local stakeholders as well as investors has been overwhelming.

“We are extremely [excited] about the interest that has been shown from countries all over the world and participants who continue to have continue to bombard us and the Government of Guyana as to how they can participate, there is an appetite for it.”

The event, he said will be a stepping stone for the region to capitalise on major investments and opportunities to elevate their

value chain.

“We are too blessed to be stressed and too rich to be poor, its full time that we capitalise on the opportunities… we have opportunities in animal and animal products, opportunities in terms of food processing, we have to move up the value chain.”

With the anticipated success of the first Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, Cox also disclosed that the event may become an annual one to support the regional agricultural sector.

“Coming out of this, which we anticipate success, we will use this opportunity to retool, reshape where appropriate, so [the event] can continue to be a part of the regional agenda,” he said.

Minister Mustapha inspecting a few of the booths ahead of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo (Adrian Narine photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Owners of house lots to get assistance to build their home

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

By Tamica Garnett

provide critical additional relief to persons constructCOGNISANT of the chal- ing their homes in keeplenges facing land owners ing with our government’s who are having difficulty strong commitment to make in completing the con- homeownership affordable struction of their homes, to every single Guyanese.” the government will be On the establishment of launching a home con- the home construction asstruction assistance fa- sistance facility, according cility, which will see the to the President, the govgovernment assisting pro- ernment decided to move spective homeowners in forward with the housing sourcing financing and assistance unit given the materials to complete tremendous interest that the the construction of their government has seen over homes. the past few months for Also towards making constructed homes, with the home ownership more af- construction of the young fordable, the government professionals home. has also removed Value “Our ability to service Added Tax (VAT) on sheet that interest has driven us to rock and cement board until this conclusion that there is the market stabilises. This a great need for prospective is due to the rising cost of homeowners to have a onematerials as a result of the stop or comprehensive soluexternal shocks caused by tion and this measure aims the COVID-19 pandemic at doing this. Taking away and the Russia/Ukraine war. the burden of going to the These measures and bank, and getting themselves others were announced on qualified, all of this will be Monday by President, Dr. brought under one umbrella, Irfaan Ali, during a video one whole ownership manmessage aired on his Face- agement umbrella to make book page. it easier for you to own your On the removal of VAT own home,” the President on the sheet rock and ce- explained. ment board, the President President Ali noted that noted that: “This measure it is through consultations is expected to cost a $100 in communities all across million annually but will Guyana that the government

observed that many persons who own a house lot are encountering challenges in managing the process of constructing their homes.

NO TRIVIAL TASK “That is of course perfectly understandable because managing construction of a house is not a trivial task, considering that most of these families have absolutely no prior experience in home construction.

And that in any event they are already occupied with the day-to-day demands of work and family life.

We expect that this measure will help to dramatically accelerate the capacity of Guyanese families to own, occupied their own home and house lots that have already been owned or that they have been allocated, but on which they’re currently having difficulty managing the complex process of home ownership and also having access to financing,” the President said.

He added: “If you increase the occupation level in existing housing schemes it will reduce dependency on rental, it will accelerate home ownership, it will accelerate more activity in the construction sector. It will make it easier for persons to get financing to build their homes where the government will be partnering with the prospective homeowners, the banks and the contractors in delivering an end- product that is a home to the respective families.”

Persons who have a house lot and wish to receive government’s help to construct their home on that lot will be able to register their interest with the assistance unit, which will be established shortly for this purpose.

At the time of registration, applicants will be able to select their preference from an option of three standard models of houses

which will cost $7 million, $9 million or $12 million.

“Depending on the applicant income level, government will support them through the process of applying for bank financing to meet the cost of construction of the home, and will also look at helping in the initial phase of construction by the releasing of resources to ex-

pedite the construction process and help in bringing the homeowners and the banks together,” Dr Ali noted “Government will also undertake construction on the home on behalf of the applicant and give the applicant a complete home in accordance with the option selected.”

This initiative relates

to the governments home ownership drive, where the government is committed to distributing 50,000 house lots during its current fiveyear term of office.

According to Dr Ali, the government is well on its way to achieving its goal, having already gone past the 10,000 mark in house lot allocations.

Other measures being considered in short to medium-term for other groups

THE National Budget of 2022 had included an allocation of $5b dollars for cost-of-living relief measures, geared towards cushioning some of the pressing burdens being faced locally.

M o n d a y ’s a n nouncement by President Ali is the first set in a series of relief measures for specific, high-impact, high vulnerability groups in the country.

While the cost of living affects citizens across the country, those in far-flung riverine and hinterland communities are facing extraneous difficulties because of high transportation costs and other factors.

It is against this backdrop that the government has sought to target farmers and hinterland communities for immediate relief, while further consultations and assessments will inform additional steps and measures to bring relief across other sectors and to more Guyanese in the short to medium term.

Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy The announcement was made after consultations with stakeholder bodies on the impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic on the cost of living in Guyana, which were unavoidably exacerbated by external factors, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and global challenges across food, oil and gas, and supply chains.

The ripple farm-tokitchen effect of growing costs of vegetable cultivation and other produce across the agricultural sector and climbing costs for materials, labour and other services associated with the construc-

tion sectors have been considered.

The government remains fully cognisant and attuned to the global developments impacting cost of living, and by extension, personal and national progress across our country; and will therefore continue working arduously to forge ahead with the rapid transformational agenda for the building of a multidimensional economy that can safeguard hard-earned gains and catalyse the empowerment of every citizen in a prosperous One Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Opportune time for Guyana, Bahamas to forge stronger partnership — President Ali tells new Non-Resident High Commissioner of opportunities available

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali said the opportunity is before Guyana and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to forge a stronger partnership.

President Ali also told the Non-Resident High Commissioner of The Bahamas, Leslia Miller-Brice during her swearing-in ceremony that a stronger relationship between the two states could enhance sectors such as agriculture, tourism, education, sport, youth development, financial services and trade and investment.

The President said that as the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries nears its mark, “the opportunity is therefore before us to craft a stronger partnership and a programme for bilateral collaboration and cooperation.”

He said that it is his hope that the two countries can intensify cooperation during the High Commissioner’s tenure, particularly given the people-to-people links that exist.

“I know that there is a significant Guyanese popu-

lation in The Bahamas. We must therefore work on establishing a functional cooperation programme that will rebound to the benefit of both our peoples.”

FOOD SECURITY COOPERATION The Head of State also noted that he is looking forward to welcoming the Bahamas’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, Chester Cooper, who will be leading a Bahamian delegation to attend this week’s Agri-Investment Forum and

Expo.

To this end, the President said he hopes that with the participation and support of CARICOM member states, including The Bahamas, development partners and the private sector, concrete solutions to improve regional food security and increase the intra-regional trade in food commodities and products will be formed.

During her address to the President, the High Commissioner also said that The Bahamas is looking forward to collaborating at the techniPresident, Dr Irfaan Ali exchanges a handshake with Non-Resident High Commissioner of The Bahamas, Leslia Miller-Brice (Office of the President photo) cal level towards reducing to expanding the conversaits exorbitant food- import tion methods.”

The High Commissioner bill by strengthening its agricultural sector through also noted that The Bahamas expanded production and is an archipelago country with vulnerable low-lying increased capacity.

“We look forward to coastal areas, and it continengaging in constructive ues to be threatened by the discussions to expand our adverse effects of climate technological experience change.

“My Prime Minister and increase our knowledge base and agricultural fields has made repeated calls for for food security, rural de- immediate action by the velopment and sustainable world’s largest polluters. It development,” the High is The Bahamas’ view that more needs to be done in Commissioner said. this area, as doing nothing CLIMATE CHANGE can no longer be an option,” LEADERSHIP President Ali emphasised she said, while also thankthat Guyana has not only ing Guyana for its support demonstrated its leadership and solidarity extended to in words, but also in actions The Bahamas following the in the fight against climate passage and destruction of change. This, he said, is Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

President Ali reaftestament to the fact that although Guyana’s current firmed that it is “parastanding forest is worth over mount that the region US$500B, the country has presses ahead with its adnot made any moves to cut vocacy for action by the down “this important global largest greenhouse gas emitters and for change asset.”

“As a matter of fact, we to the global financial arare known to have the lungs chitecture that takes into of the world and not only account Caribbean vulnerare we committing to keep it abilities.” (Office of the standing, we are committed President)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Foreign Direct Investments top US$4B in 2021

By Navendra Seoraj

SUCCESSES and increased activities in Guyana’s oil and gas sector and other key productive sectors have served as an impetus for foreign investors, who have been injecting funds into the local economy through various projects.

A reflection of the country’s performance and increased inflows is its capital account, which, according to the Bank of Guyana, recorded a surplus of US$1.7 billion in 2021. The capital account shows the net flow of investment transactions into an economy.

The surplus in 2021, the Central Bank said, is on account of higher inflows to the private sector in the form of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) of US$4.4 billion as well as the Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) allocation of US$247.4 million from the International Mon-

etary Fund (IMF).

The Government of Guyana is actively encouraging FDI and offering tax concessions for priority projects.

It was reported that there has been a notable increase in the number of opportunities for Guyanese, with the approval of 48 private projects in 2021 which, collectively, have the capacity to create over 2,300 jobs.

According to information shared with this newspaper, 17 of the 48 projects are in the services sector, 17 in the manufacturing sector, five in agriculture, four in mining, three in forestry, two in tourism, two in ICT, and one in energy.

Both Guyanese and foreigners are increasingly interested in and confident in the local economy, as seen by those project proposals.

The growing interest among locals is especially noticeable, with some 33 of the authorised projects

coming from Guyanese.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, had said that 65 per cent of the private investments made last year were from locals.

Dr. Ramsaroop said, even as the economy continues to grow, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and by extension the government is committed to having Guyanese benefit from the investment opportunities that are available locally.

As part of this commitment, the government, in December 2021, introduced the Local Content Act. The new law identifies 40 sectors or services and requires oil firms and their subcontractors to purchase a minimum percentage of their total expenditure on those services from Guyanese vendors.

As a result, the Act creates an enabling environment for the growth and expansion of Guya-

nese businesses, as well as business and job opportunities for Guyanese nationals.

From 2017 to 2019, the unemployment rate in Guyana increased from 12.2 per cent to 13.4 per cent, but the government intends to reverse this over the next five years through the creation of 50,000 jobs and an environment that is conducive for growth and development, especially among locals.

“When we were considering the Local Content Act, one of the recurring issues that arose was the question of ensuring that Guyanese businesses are not in a disadvantageous position relative to their international counterparts in competing for contracts with the oil and gas sector.

“This could arise, for example, where the sector is procuring a service and the international companies tendering to supply that service en-

(researchleap.com photo) joy a particular tax treatment on the importation of their capital equipment to provide that service that Guyanese companies might not enjoy,” Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said during his presentation of Budget 2022 to the National Assembly on January 26.

He went on to say that, in the interest of ensuring that Guyanese businesses could compete successfully under the new local content framework, the government will take steps, wherever practicable, to minimise disparities arising from the tax

system that will disadvantage Guyanese businesses.

This will help improve the competitiveness of Guyanese companies, help secure business opportunities for them, and thereby create jobs for Guyanese nationals.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Investing for the benefit of all

THE May 19-21 Agri-Investment Forum & Expo starting at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Thursday invites participants to “Showcase products and services, network with local, regional and international businesses and investors” and “Gain invaluable knowledge from pioneers in the agriculture industry.”

Sponsored by the Guyana Government, Go-Invest and One Guyana, the weekend event aims to encourage and attract Guyanese and business entities (at home and abroad) interested in investing in agriculture in CARICOM’s largest country with the most agricultural potential.

The forum and expo come at a time when Guyana is

responsible for agriculture within CARICOM and with President, Dr Irfaan Ali as the Head-of-Government responsible for encouraging the region to reduce its sky-high multi-billion-dollar foodimportation bill by at least 25 per cent in 2025, and encouraging fast-forward movement towards regional food security, precisely when the entire world is reeling under the tidal-wave effects of rising food shortages and prices.

Coming on the heels of the hybrid international oiland-gas energy conference in Georgetown earlier this year that preceded the Ukraine war, the weekend forum and expo will also yield opportunities for exchanges of old and new ideas for advancing agriculture in Guyana’s new

dispensation and the emerging post-COVID and Ukraine global environment, where food security has become an even greater global priority.

The Guyana government has thrown out the challenges and invitations for entrepreneurs and start-up thinkers in Guyana, across CARICOM and beyond the region, to think deeply and come up with new solutions and approaches to the old problems that bedevilled agriculture in the recent bygone era of total concentration on sugar and rice for the majority of export earnings.

Agriculture today is capable -- like never before -- of benefiting from the possibilities of turning challenges into opportunities.

The effect of the war on

global access to wheat is only the latest perfect example of the imbalance in production and distribution of this essential food item.

Ukraine, as the world’s biggest producer, is unable to export; India (the world’s second-largest producer) has had to reduce exports to preserve local stocks; and Russia (another major world producer) is experiencing uninterrupted production growth.

Guyana has already invested in research and preparation for experimenting with different varieties of wheat to open the way for possible wheat production.

Other traditional and nontraditional agriculture, livestock and fisheries sectors are also benefiting from the new openings in areas rang-

ing from poultry farming to shrimp harvesting.

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, youthful minds and ideas will mix and match with traditional approaches that have served well over time, out of which mature dialogue and exchange can emerge the germination of seedlings for new approaches to today and tomorrow’s challenges.

The challenges and possibilities also include introduction of new products based on needs analyses and a mix of other factors, including nutritional and other health benefits, development of local tastes and markets, prioritising export viability – and ensuring historical continuity by investing in youth involvement and integration into an

industry their parents either daily plowed to plough the heavy costs of their education.

The 2022 agriculture forum and expo offer opportunities for investment of new ideas and resources into new areas of national development that will redound to the common good.

With the innumerable opportunities in this age of digitisation of agriculture, when the industry is no longer seen as only backbreaking work without labourers tasting the fruitful harvests of their labour, the weekend event will definitely open the doors and ways for innovative ideas to be presented and planted, nourished and harvested, for the benefit of all.

Foreign languages are essential for Guyana as a global oil country

Dear Editor, THE transformational aspects in Dr Muniram Budhu’s letter in SN May 15, 2022 should be followed up as a guide for implementing changes in our secondary and tertiary levels of education. The existing education plan could be examined for missing elements, critical thinking, creativity, and problemsolving that are essential in a curriculum. These elements are infused at the tertiary level in assessment rubrics under the

more generalised ‘levels of learning’ that range from observational data, data analysis, conceptual modelling, and evaluation. The poor results in the STEM programme among US students who were assessed using the programme for International Student Assessment could hardly be blamed on the three ‘missing elements.’

The low overall test results in 2001 and in 2010 could be blamed on the disparities in resources available in inner-city high

schools versus suburban high schools, both in terms of quantity and quality. These resource gaps would need further research to help policy makers make improvements to the overall curriculum and its implementation. One may find that suburban schools outperform their inner-city counterparts.

Low-income versus middleincome disparities within and between educational districts may be a second potent force explaining the relatively low scores.

Dr Budhu’s letter could

also guide policy-making at the tertiary educational level. One area that could be added to the three elements of critical thinking, creativity, and problemsolving is foreign language and culture as the composition of the labour force becomes culturally diverse.

The mastery of any foreign language, including computer languages, involves ‘parsing and analysis’ into the elements of that language. In Guyana’s case, some students benefited from learning Latin.

In addition to vocabulary

in reading, there were the benefits of understanding how sentence structures were developed, with the level of details required to separate and combine words, indeed beyond mere memory and recall. The analysis of word strings and their conformity with grammatical rules are just as important as in computer data structures.

I support Dr Budhu’s suggestion that our languages curriculum could be enhanced with such languages as ‘Sanskrit (Samskritam), an ancient Indian language,

and mother of the IndoEuropean family of languages which include English,’ to which I would add our own ancient Amerindian languages.

Anecdotally, I attended an Anthropology Conference in Western Pennsylvania where a brand new language was developed at the Assembly’s general session using three sounds and two gestures. We exited the hall babbling.

Yours sincerely, Dr Ganga Persad Ramdas, PhD, MA, MS

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Gov’t to distribute $1B in fertilisers to farmers

THE government will be purchasing and distributing, free of cost, $1 billion in fertilisers to farmers all across Guyana as a means of absorbing the rising global costs for the commodity and to prevent the costs being passed on to consumers at the market.

The $1 billion will be drawn from the $5 billion the government had set aside in the 2022 national budget to implement measures to ease the cost of living to citizens, which is caused by the external economic shocks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine.

This latest government

welfare measure was one of four announced by President, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Monday in a video message aired on his official Facebook page.

“The cost of a fertiliser has affected the production cost[s] for farmers which have translated into increased prices in the markets. In order to cushion the impact of the rising cost of fertiliser on farmers and to limit the pass through to food prices, my government will be purchasing $1 billion dollars worth of fertiliser for free distribution to farmers for use in their planting activities,” Dr. Ali declared.

He further went on to note that: “Considering that

fertiliser accounts for between 15 to 30 per cent of the total operating cost, this initiative will significantly reduce import costs and help to ensure scaled-up production and adequate supply of output, which is critical to maintaining price stability. [The] measures will be financed from the special $5 billion allocated in budget 2022 for the purpose of easing the impact of [the] rising cost of living.”

Prior to announcing the measure, the President gave a reminder that prices for fertilisers on the World Market rose by 80 per cent in 2021 and has already risen by a further 30 per cent since the

start of 2022.

“Urea for example was trading at US$245 dollars per metric tonne; last month the average price for urea was $925 per metric tonne. This represented the rapid surge of the price for natural gas which is key in the production of fertiliser. The world market price for wheat has similarly skyrocketed from US$223 per metric tonne to $495 [per metric tonne] last month. On top of all of this in Guyana we’ve had to grapple with the consequences of unusually high rainfall in 2021, resulting in floods that severely disrupted food production,” the government noted.

As a result of the increased prices for fertilisers, the prices of vegetables and other produce in the market have seen increases

in prices over the past few years. However, the government has been implementing a number of measures to cushion the blow.

The US is in order by excluding Venezuela and Nicaragua from Summit of the Americas

Dear Editor, THE Summit of the Americas must go on! It is the democratic right of any country to reject the invitation from the US, as it is the right of the host not to invite countries with leaders that do not respect human rights, the rule of law and free and fair elections, and whose governance does not embrace the basic tenets of democracy... leaders that imprison opposition operatives and human rights advocates.

The US is in order by excluding Venezuela and Nicaragua, but it is a flawed decision on its part to exclude Cuba, which, over the years, has introduced tremendous reforms, and which continues to play a critical role in supporting the medical needs, on humanitarian grounds, of many developing nations around the globe. It must reconsider its position and invite Cuba.

Maduro and Ortega, rather than implementing reforms, are making human rights conditions worse in their respective countries.

They continue to disrespect basic human rights and the tenets of democracy, and, in the case of Maduro, continue to pose a threat to the security and stability of the

Americas with his jingoistic maneuvers from time to time regarding Venezuela’s baseless claim to Guyana’s maritime space and five-eights of its landmass.

Let those leaders who wish to boycott the Summit do so; every action has a reaction, but I am sure the current Biden Administration, unlike Trump’s, will hardly retaliate, since it is well aware that any punitive measures will hurt the people of the boycotting countries and not their leaders… except some of these leaders are asked to account for any hefty balances they might maintain in personal US bank accounts.

So, the responsible administration that is President Biden’s will, in my view, not seek to make it difficult for American tourists to visit Antigua and Barbuda, make it difficult for the boycotting countries to have access to vaccines in the height of a pandemic, cut the quota of visitor visas for these countries, discourage US businesses from doing business in these countries, or make it more difficult than it already is in terms of the supply chain for ships and cargo planes to ply routes that include those countries that will choose to boycott

the Summit.

Just imagine what a new tax on airline tickets to Antigua would do to that country’s tourism market.

And, of course, the US will always be among the first responders to assist the

people of CARICOM when natural disasters…hurricanes, earthquakes etc. hit.

The boycotting countries enjoy the right to boycott.

The summit will go on. The US, I expect, will act responsibly, and not seek to

retaliate in a way that will hurt the people, especially of CARICOM countries who have shared values with their brothers and sisters in the US. I expect that Secretary of State Blinken will engage those countries that plan

to boycott to urge their participation. But, in the final analysis, it is up to the leaders of those countries to make the decision to attend or not to.

Yours sincerely, Wesley Kirton

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$25,000 per household for riverine, hinterland communities

By Tamica Garnett

RESIDENTS in riverine and hinterland communities across Guyana will be receiving a $25,000 per household cash grant as part of measures being financed by the $5 billion that was set aside in the 2022 national budget to cushion the rising cost of living.

This measure is expected

to put an additional $800 million in disposable income back into the hands of ordinary Guyanese and will add to the other plethora of welfare measures that the government has implemented over the past three years as the world faced back-to-back global hardships, which has skyrocketed inflation across developed and developing nations.

This latest welfare meas-

ure was one of four that were announced by President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday, in a video statement aired on his official Facebook page.

“In order to bring relief to those households facing extreme hardships, my government will be providing a special one-off grant of $25,000 to every single household in the river and hinterland communities. This will place an additional $800 million at the disposal of these households that have been particularly affected by the recent rising cost of living,” Dr. Ali declared.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTED Guyana’s riverine and hinterland communities are often disproportionately affected by economic hardships and lack of resources, due to their remoteness, and are often given special attention and consideration when it comes to welfare measures.

Guyana, like the rest of the world, has been facing persistent economic hardships over the past two and a half years due to the effects brought on by the COVID-19 which started in early

2020, followed by the Russia/ Ukraine war, which started in early 2022. The war in particular has led to the skyrocketing of oil prices, given Russia’s position as a leading exporter of oil. This increase has led to increases in prices of other commodities.

“These two global shocks have combined to exert tremendous pressure on economies across the world,” President, Dr Ali commented.

Putting it into context, he noted that: “The annual rate of inflation in the US as of April 2022 stood at 8.3 per cent, the highest level since the 1980s. Food prices rose by 9.4 per cent over the past year. The largest 12-month increase since 1981. The United Kingdom annual inflation is seven per cent as of March 2020, the highest rate in 30 years. Similar inflation is being experienced all over the world and in developed and developing countries alike. If you were to look at individual commodities in the case of crude oil, the world market price was as low as $20 per barrel in April 2020 when we came to office in August 2020 the crude oil price was US$44 per barrel. Today, it is $114 per barrel. Shipping a container across continents has increased by seven times since March 2020.”

SEVERE FLOODING In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war, Guyana also faced severe flooding in 2021, which also affected farms and led to increased prices in the markets.

Many hinterland regions were also disproportionately affected by this flooding.

The President noted that the government decided on the $25,000 cash grant to the riverine and hinterland communities following countrywide consultations.

This latest welfare measure follows a slew of measures the government has been continuously implementing over the years, including a previous $25,000 per household COVID-19 cash grant in 2020, which saw the injection of $7.5 billion back into the economy.

Other measures included the removal of VAT on electricity, water and other household necessities, as well as from education and medical supplies, cellphones and the most basic construction materials. The government also capped the cost of freight to pre-pandemic level, and completely removed the 50 per cent excise tax on imported fuel.

The old age pension has been increased to $28,000, while disabled persons also each received a $25,000 grant and a massive increase in the 2022 budget for the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant and uniform vouchers, which now see parents receiving $30,000 per child.

Another $7.8 billion in flood-relief grants was also distributed.

“Government has deployed the widest range of policy deployments to safeguard the well-being of the Guyanese people and cushion the impact of the very harsh external pressure currently being faced. We’ve implemented measures to ease [the] cost of living,” Dr Ali said during his address on Monday.

Meanwhile, notwithstanding the current $25,000 going only to households and riverine communities, this by no means marks the end of the welfare measures that will be implemented under the $5 billion catered for in the budget. President Ali emphasised that consultations will continue.

“My government continues to consult with communities across the country with the aim of intensifying other measures to bring relief to the widest range of groups who have been affected by recent cost-ofliving pressures. Among this group we’re talking about will be the pensioners’ children and [the] vulnerable. So our government is continuing this exercise of consulting to see the best possible measures that can be brought on stream to support those groups,” President Ali said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Road Safety Council, minibus union welcome proposed ‘motor manslaughter’ charge, other penalties

Coordinator of the Guyana National Road Safety Council, Ramona Doorgen

By Jared Liddell THE Guyana National Road Safety Council and the United Minibus Association are pleased that steps are being taken to impose harsh penalties on persons accused of, and convicted of, drunk driving.

Proposed amendments outlined in the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2022 and Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Bill 2022, could see drunk drivers being charged with “motor manslaughter” and be subjected to the permanent revocation of their driver’s licence as well as increased jail time.

GNRSC Coordinator Ramona Doorgen, told the Guyana Chronicle, on Monday, that the new amendments will not just serve to promote better road use, but they will also serve to create a sort of comfort for those who have lost their relatives to drunk

drivers.

The amendments aim to strengthen and expand existing legislation and impose more disciplinary measures against persons found in breach of the laws.

The major changes in the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2022 seek to amend the Principal Act by inserting a new section, 35A, to provide for the offenses of motor manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm when driving a motor vehicle under the influence of drink or a drug, which would carry a term of imprisonment of no less than 10 years.

The penalty where a driver under the influence has caused grievous bodily harm to another person will carry a term of imprisonment of not less than five years.

Clause Four of the Bill seeks to amend the Principal Act by inserting a new section, 38A, which will provide for the temporary suspension of a licence, pending the determination of a charge.

If a person is charged for a second time, the court may order the suspension of the licence of that person. Where the person is charged a third time with the aforementioned offenses, the court shall order the suspension of the licence pending the determination of the charge.

Persons refusing to surrender their licence would be fined $100,000 or face imprisonment for three months.

Currently, the penalty is a fine ranging from $30,000

to $60,000 or imprisonment for 12 months, and in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, there is a fine ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 and imprisonment. The penalties are amended to reflect a fine not less than $200,000 for a first conviction and no less than $300,000 for a second or subsequent conviction.

SHARED REPONSIBILITY Speaking to the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Bill 2022, Doorgen told this publication that shared responsibility for the safety of the roadways must always be paramount.

She added that the council is of the view that bar owners and operators must play a greater role in promoting safety.

Under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Bill 2022, the government is looking to expand the duties placed on owners of bars and clubs by mandating them not to sell, give or barter intoxicating liquor to a person they know is likely to leave the premises by driving a motor vehicle, unless a designated driver is identified.

Breach of these proposed amendments could see the licence holder being fined $100,000 for a first offense, and from $200,000 to $500,000 for a second offense.

Further, where the licence holder knows that a drunken person is attempting to drive or is in charge of a motor vehicle, he shall inform the nearest police station and request immediate assistance.

This car was left mangled following an accident

Moreover, a licence holder is also now required to conspicuously post signs and ensure that announcements are made, on the premises that discourage drinking and driving.

The amendments also place the duties of “not permitting” drunkenness on the establishment.

Doorgen noted that this is a duty that should have been taken up by bar owners before the proposed amendment stating, “we should not have had the Attorney General’s chambers or nobody in the world tell us to share the responsibility of having our citizens and our customers safe, because at the end of the day, if you don’t have those persons to buy from the bar then your business would eventually be affected.”

Meanwhile, Doorgen stated that while the council is in support of the current amendments, a major addition that the council would

like to have seen was the provision for families of victims of accidents.

She noted that the recommendation by the council would seek to have anyone convicted of motor manslaughter being made to pay the families of the victim provided that the deceased person was the sole breadwinner of that family.

“If a person kills somebody on the roadway and that person has kids and has a wife, that person must pay child support to those children for the rest of their lives and the wife.”

GOOD START President of the United Minibus Association, Eon Andrews, who also spoke to this publication on Monday, opined that the proposed amendments will provide better governance of drivers, especially those who are responsible for public transportation.

He noted that the new amendments will provide

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President of the United Minibus Association, Eon Andrews a more “uniformed” approach to dealing with persons who are found guilty of driving drunk and causing accidents.

“People must leave their homes and go into a vehicle without their families having to pray that they reach home safe out of fear of drunk drivers. So somewhere along the line systems must be put in place to mitigate that and I believe that these amendments are a good start,” Andrews said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Huist D’ieren: an experiment in East Indian Land Settlement Scheme in 19th century colonial Guyana

By Tota C. Mangar THE system of indentureship as experienced by East Indian immigrants in colonial Guyana could be characterised as one of ‘struggle, sacrifice and resistance’. On the estates, the indentured labourers faced the harshness of the labour laws and it was obvious that the powerful plantocracy had effective control of the immigrant labour force. Labour laws were easily varied and very often abused to suit their ‘ whims and fancies’.

Immigrants were faced with meagre wage rates and unrealistic tasks; there was a persistent problem of being penalised in relation to the muster roll which was held every morning. Court trials were, in many instances, farcical; fines and imprisonment were rife and vagrancy laws invariably imposed a serious restriction on their movements.

It was not surprising therefore that, from the late 1860s onwards, the myth of Indian docility was to be seriously

Tota C. Mangar

challenged. Indentured labourers began to openly defy the system and there was a steady deterioration of industrial relations, increasing working class protests and imperial investigation.

In 1870, a Royal Commission of Inquiry was appointed to examine alleged abuses of the immigration system. It subsequently made a number of recommendations and as a result certain changes were made in the immigration laws. Among these changes were wider powers of the Immigration Agent- General, the formation of immigration

districts, each with a resident agent, district medical officers to be paid by government instead of estate authorities, the right of immigrants to give evidence on their own behalf and the Immigration Agent-General becoming an ex-officio member of the Court of Policy.

Thereafter, the reindenture scheme which emerged in the 1850s began to decline and, at the same time, encouragement was given to immigrants to take up small plots of land in lieu of return passages. Such an initiative came from both the government of the colony and the plantocracy to discourage repatriation. It was Potter’s contention that time-expired immigrants increasingly chose to move off the estates.

Obviously, it was the high cost of repatriation for those who had completed their periods of industrial resistance and were entitled to a free return passage which led the government and planters to give serious consideration to the establishment of East Indian settlements. By 1869, an estimated 30,000 immigrants were entitled to a

free return passage.

BACKGROUND TO HUIST D’ IEREN It was against the foregoing that some East Indian immigrants moved from the plantations and settled along the public roads in areas adjoining the sugar estates. Their movement was averaging 3,000 yearly and was mostly found in “straggling, unorganised settlements”, along the coastland.

A definite attempt was made in 1871 to settle immigrants when the government purchased Plantation Nooten Zuil, an abandoned 578-acre cattle and provision farm on the East Coast of Demerara.

This proposal was to settle time-expired immigrants in lieu of their return passages by offering them half an acre to build a house, one and a half acres for farming and half an acre for common pasturage.

This scheme failed largely because of poor drainage and excessive flooding and immigrants felt the site itself was badly chosen. In the end, the government was forced to abandon the project.

It was not until 1880 that another attempt was made towards the establishment of an immigrant village settlement.

This time around, government purchased Plantation Huist D’ieren, a partially abandoned estate on the Essequibo Coast, lying just beyond the Iteribisci creek and approximately four miles south of the then administrative headquarters of Suddie. Huist D’ieren is Dutch in origin meaning manor of D’ieren (D’ieren- a village in Holland).

THE SETTLEMENT-- EXPERIMENT Following the purchase of Plantation Huist D’ieren by government, the land was divided into two-acre cultivation plots along with a quarter acre residential lots and then distributed to immigrants in lieu of their return passages. Initially seventy three immigrants took up the offer. In the beginning, the settlement of Huist D’ieren was placed under the direct supervision of Veeraswammy Mudaliar, Chief Interpreter in the Immigration Department. But by 1882, so serious were problems experienced by residents that the settlement had made virtually no progress. Maintenance of sea defences and public roads became too burdensome and backdam kokers and main drainage trenches were all in deplorable conditions.

Henry Turner Irving assumed duty as Governor of the colony of British Guiana in May 1882. Within a few weeks after his arrival, he acquainted himself with several aspects of immigration.

He was obviously conscious that East Indian immigration was firmly established and it had become the mainstay of the sugar industry. Hence, he promptly made an innovation to the land settlement scheme.

In this regard, he must have been influenced by both the difficulties confronting the settlement of Huist D’ieren and the rising cost of repatriation and his earlier experience as Governor of Trinidad where a significant Indian immigrant population was already in existence.

As early as May 1882, the Governor suggested that instead of issuing grants of land to immigrants and confining them to land settlement schemes, it would be more satisfactory to provide them with the opportunity to purchase land in localities best suited by their individual tastes. He was of the view that a more effective system was for government to “foster spontaneous settlement by rendering available for it the abandoned estates as no artificial means are required to stimulate the settlement of the Indian population”. According to him, settlement brought about in this manner would be more likely to succeed than those established through grants of land in lieu of return passages.

Moreover, it was his view that someone establishing himself and his family on a homestead of his own would hardly attempt to claim his right to a return passage.

The administrator very realistically argued that the government should embark on effecting crucial infrastructural works, including roads, dams, bridges and sea defences before offering lots for sale and he was confident costs incurred would be recovered.

It would seem that governor Irving had made a careful study of the immigrant psyche at that point in time.

Consequently, grants of land in communication of return passages ceased and in its place came the sale of lots. In the case of Huist D’ieren, the original system was scrapped and infrastructural works were carried out. The land was then divided into two-acre cultivation lots and a quarter acre residential lots and these were advertised for sale. Immigrants were afforded the opportunity

of purchasing by way of a system similar to that of hire purchase of today. The initial payment was $10.00 and this was followed by five annual installments of $10.00 each.

The immediate response was satisfactory as 62 immigrants took up lots. Governor Irving was hailed for his vision and innovation. The purchase development seemed to suggest that Irving’s experimentation might lead to a rapid transformation in creating “an ethnically separate peasantry’’. But in reality there was a drastic reduction in the sale of land. Only six cultivation and six house or residential lots were purchased that year. A number of problems continued to beset the settlement. Among them were encroachments from the sea, flooding from backland water, inadequate drainage and periodic failure of crops, especially rice.

Moreover, many opted to leave the area and to purchase lands on the nearby islands of Tiger Island and Wakenaam where the price was much cheaper. The temptation to settle on these Essequibo islands at that point in time was obviously great. There were no roads to maintain, and as was previously pointed out by the Immigration Agent- General,’ the natural highway, the river, offering every facility for transport of crops’. It is perhaps worthwhile to note that, at an early stage of this experiment, one immigrant had his interest divided. He was simultaneously settling at Huist D’ieren and farming on one of the islands.

Interestingly, similar steps were also taken for the sale of abandoned estates at Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice; Mahaicony and elsewhere during the remainder of Irving’s tenure in the colony.

CONCLUSION Overall, the Governor must have been disappointed at the degree of progress of the Huist Dieren Experiment.

His idealisation and approach failed to make the huge anticipated impact. This is borne out in the fact that a mere 116 residential and 136 cultivation lots were sold during 1883 to1887. Such a happening was certainly not the response which the Governor had expected when he initiated the Huist D’ieren Experiment.

However, one ought to acknowledge the long-term impact of Irving’s novel scheme in inducing immigrants to settle permanently in the colContinued on page 13

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Minister Vindhya urges persons to report domestic violence

WHILE emphasising the need for public support to curb domestic violence in Guyana, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, recently urged persons to help victims by reporting such incidents.

She made this plea at a Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) business workshop held at Cove and John, East Coast Demerara.

“People would like this ministry to stop domestic

we want people to do is report it.”

The minister said that lots of women seek help, and are asked by her if they have a family. While they respond in the affirmative, she said they also say that no one is willing to help them.

Minister Persaud said that this needs to be changed. She emphasised that if a family member or someone you are close to is being abused, help them to move to a safe place.

“If you are afraid, sug-

plan, to network, and access financing.

The workshop catered for the 2021 WIIN graduates, women entrepreneurs, and women-owned businesses and startups.

During the opening ceremony, the minister encouraged those present to utilise the practical aspects of the workshop and to absorb information on the requirements to start and sustain a business.

During her address to participants, she said: “This

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, at the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) business workshop (Ministry of Human Services and Social Security photo)

violence [but] the reality is that we cannot know where it is happening… you know if your family member is being abused, you know if the neighbour is being beaten up,” Minister Persaud said.

She added: “Rather than knowing and keeping the knowledge to oneself, what

gest somewhere … These are the things that we have to do,” she explained.

While the minister spoke candidly about domestic violence, the workshop focused on enhancing the skills of potential and existing entrepreneurs. Facilitators taught them how to write a business

is where it gets very exciting because it is important to look outside of the norms to find your niche in your community and the wider country. Look for creative ways that your business could provide solutions and services.”

The idea of the WIIN

business workshops is for women to create their own opportunities rather than seek employment in their pursuit of being financially independent.

Minister Persaud further said: “Once a woman in a home is financially independent, once she is empowered, that home becomes more stable because she can provide for her family, she is able to look after herself and she is able to fully understand her inherent potential.”

She emphasised that the activity is by no means just a “talk shop.” The ministry has partnered with several entities to provide practical guidance on how to create an effective business plan, source financing, and register a business.

Partners include the Small Business Bureau; the Centre for Local Business Development; Guyana Tourism Authority; Nations Incorporated; Demerara Bank; Republic Bank Guyana Lim-

ited; Scotiabank Guyana; the Guyana Revenue Authority, among others.

Over 700 participants registered for the workshop; however, due to this overwhelming response, additional workshops are being scheduled to facilitate the high demand and will be announced shortly via the ministry’s social media platforms. Some of those workshops will be held in other regions based on the level of interest.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Programme launched to foster youth participation in local governance

Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud (left) speaking with US Ambassador, Sarah Ann-Lynch, at the launch (Adrian Narine photo)

YOUTH Advocacy, Linkages, Leadership in Elections and Society (Youth ALLIES), a three-year programme under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), geared at supporting youth participation in local governance and elections, was officially launched on Friday.

The launch was held at

the Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown.

The programme, which will run from 2022 to 2025, is being implemented by the International Foundation of Electoral Systems (IFES), in collaboration with local organisations and stakeholders, including Youth Challenge Guyana (YCG) and the National Youth Council (NYC).

IFES will work with a broad range of stakeholders and partners in Guyana to accomplish three main goals through the Youth ALLIES Programme.

According to IFES Country Director, Meredith Applegate, the goals are to foster an understanding of democracy, government and leadership function in Guyana, facilitate opportunities for collaborative problemsolving, and to promote inclusive governance through research.

“We want all of our programming to be responsive to the actual needs and realities of the communities that the Youth ALLIES programme will operate in. We will build the skills of young people to use research to ensure we and the people we work with have the information they need to be responsive and responsible,” Applegate noted.

She added that: “Through trainings and public awareness programmes the Youth ALLIES programme will build up crucial skills while providing foundational knowledge on democracies, local government and elections so that young people have the knowledge they need as well as the skills to be positively engaged in their own democracies, particularly at the local government level. There are a number of wonderful initiatives across Guyana targetting youth and the Youth ALLIES programme is committed to connecting young people in networks that will help them realise their goals in the long term.”

Friday’s launch was attended by US Ambassador, Sarah Ann-Lynch; British High Commissioner, Jane Miller; Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud and representatives from both the government and opposition.

The programme will be placing emphasis on inclusivity through diversity, with a particular focus on inclusion of young people with disabilities. The programme will also be offering small grants to individuals and groups so that young people can put their new skills to use in a spirit of working together.

“Youth ALLIES recognises the enormous potential of young people to have new innovative ideas on how to solve problems in their own communities,” Applegate

said.

A pilot programme in the form of a three-day workshop that included a number youths with disabilities was recently held and some of the youths who participated in the programme spoke about their experience in video testimonials played at the launch.

“For the past few months we have been testing some of our education materials and really making an investment in listening to young people here. My biggest take away from all of this has been the incredible commitment of young people to learn and be creative to support each other and, most importantly, make a difference in the lives of the people they know. I am so excited to see what young people will do, not only over the life of this project, but the years after,” Applegate said.

Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Ann-Lynch emphasised the importance of youths in governance and noted that for young people to be adequately represented in political institutions, policies, decisions and elections, they must know their rights and be given the necessary knowledge to participate in a meaningful way at all levels.

“The Youth ALLIES is a particularly remarkable programme because of its focus on the involvement of young people. Young people play a crucial role in successful democracies around the world.

When young people are disenfranchised or disengaged from political processes, the political system as a whole is undermined. Inclusive political participation is a fundamental political and democratic right, and is essential to building stable and peaceful societies,” AnnLynch related.

Executive Director of YCG, Dimitri Nicholson, also offered remarks at the ceremony, noting that the agenda of the programme was one welcomed by the youths of Guyana.

“Today is not just the launch of a new project but the illustration of the importance of our youth to Guyana’s development.

Guyanese are happy to participate in this project with IFES,” Nicholson remarked.

Quacy Grant, President of the Guyana National Youth Council also made remarks at the event.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

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Huist D’ieren: an experiment in East Indian Land Settlement ...

From page 10

ony. The 1880s and 1890s witnessed a gradual movement from the estates as immigrants began to buy, rent or even squat on land along the coastal plain. For example, by 1891, approximately 32,000 immigrants had settled outside the sugar estates.

This process was accelerated from around the turn of the century because of a liberalisation of crown lands policy regulations and moreso the continuing sugar depression which forced estate wages down. Within a few decades after Irving’s departure from the then British Guiana, several predominantly East Indian immigrant settlements were to emerge in the rural districts and these became inextricably linked with the emerging rice industry. These settlements included Helena, Mahaica, Whim and Bush Lot on the Corentyne Coast, Marias Pleasure, Wakenaam and Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast.

It is important to note that nearly a century after the experimentation of 1882, there was a complete reversal in trend where the neighbouring island of Tiger Island or Hamburg is concerned.

The 1960s, 1970s and 1880s witnessed a distinct shift of population from the island to the very Huist D’ ieren. The former experienced periodic flooding and land exhaustion due to the effects of sea water.

On the other hand, over the years, Huist D’ieren had witnessed gradual improvements in the areas of sea defence, drainage and irrigation, roads and progress in rice cultivation, cattle rearing and in a number of basic amenities.

The village of Huist D’ieren is now a densely populated and well established rural community in Guyana. As part of the regional local government structure, it finds itself within the Good Hope-- Pomona Neighbourhood Democratic Council in Region Two. It boasts primary and nursery schools, stores and grocery shops, a health centre, a Presbyterian Church, a mandir and a mosque, among its service centres.

Huist D’ieren is indeed a pioneer in the field of immigrant land settlement schemes. It paved the way for the further diversification of Guyana’s economy in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Its free immigrants and their descendants have contributed and continue to contribute to all facets of society, be it economic, religious, cultural, social and political life.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Body of Manchester man recovered from Canje Creek

THE body of Kevin France, who fell overboard after the boat in which he was travelling capsized on Saturday last, was recovered on Monday, floating in the Canje Creek.

France, along with four others, was in a boat in

Dead: Kevin France

New Forest heading to Banib, Canje Creek when heavy waves from two other boats that were 20 to 30 feet ahead caused the boat to capsize.

As a result, the occupants fell overboard; the four managed to swim to safety, and upon checking, France was nowhere in sight.

A report was made to the police on the said day and a party of policemen went to the area where a search was conducted, but to no avail. However, family members returned to the area on Sunday in a desperate bid to find the young man, but were unsuccessful.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, an aunt of France, Natasha Williams, said he left to prospect work for a relative who owns a ranch and farm in Canje Creek and Saturday was his second trip, having gone on Friday.

“He left home after six to go with a cousin in Canje Creek to do some work and we have the news about the accident around 11, and the others survived but he didn’t. They went on Friday also and he went around the same time but returned at 2:00 pm,” the aunt said.

France was an ex-police officer and a father of one. He was described as a caring, giving and kind individual.

He would have celebrated his 30th birthday on Monday.

The body was taken from the scene to the Bailey’s Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post mortem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Multimillion-dollar gold mining operation to employ chemical-free technology — proposed project undergoing environmental, social-impact assessment

A LOCAL company, Atlantic Gold Inc., has outlined plans to introduce chemical-free technology to Guyana’s gold-mining industry through its proposed multimillion-dollar project in the Mazaruni and Cuyuni mining districts.

It is the company’s hope that the project, which is undergoing an environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) spearheaded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), will serve as a model for development across the mining industry.

As it is now, many operators in the local gold-mining industry employ mercury, which is a liquid metal that is mixed with ore containing gold to form an amalgam.

The amalgam is then heated to burn off the mercury, and the gold is left behind.

The problem, as outlined by a previous Guyana Chronicle editorial, is that the mercury vapour released when the amalgam is heated is highly poisonous, and can cause serious health problems, if it is inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Mercury could also enter the body when it goes into streams or creeks, and the water is used for drinking or cooking, or if contaminated fish from polluted streams are eaten.

To reduce such risks, Atlantic Gold Inc., according to the EPA, has developed an Environmental Management Plan.

The intention of this plan is to mitigate the potential, negative impacts and risks and to enhance the potential, positive impacts of the proposed action.

“Environmental management measures address the environmental impacts and risks to both the physical and socio-cultural environments.

A monitoring programme has been developed for the project. The monitoring programme will provide data which would serve as the basis to determine the environmental performance of the operation,” the EPA said.

The project will be monitored to confirm its adherence to sound environmental management practices and contractually established operational standards. Monitoring will be conducted during the construction and operation phases of the project.

The monitoring programme is designed to ensure

that the trends for specific parameters are tracked. It will also provide information on compliance with legislation, guidelines and contractual requirements for the construction and operation of the facility.

A detailed exploration programme to determine the extent and to quantify alluvial gold deposits at the site was undertaken by the company prior to 2015.

ADEQUATE QUANTITIES The results of that investigation verified that gold is present in adequate quantities and is of reasonable grade to warrant the establishment of a mine and mineral-processing operations at the site, which is located approximately 150 kilometres northwest of the main regional administrative centre of Bartica.

“The exploration results indicated that economic alluvial deposits are present within the mining concession,” the company said in information provided to the EPA. The alluvial deposits will be mined by open-pit methods, and before commencement of the ore- excavation operation at any creek(s) within the area to be mined, will be diverted by excavating a channel to connect points on the creek upstream and downstream of the mineralised zone.

“Each mineralised zone will be excavated as several ponds consisting of bands.

Excavation will only commence on another band after completion of the removal of paydirt from the preceding band,” the company said.

At the commencement of operations, water will be withdrawn from the creek being mined for mineral processing. The ore-recovery operation will function in a closed loop for water supply, and water overflow from the previously excavated pond will be limited by a berm maintained around the pond.

After the completion of mining, the creek beds will be restored to their original depths and alignments and the diversion channels will be backfilled. Gold will be recovered by gravity separation, using mobile screens and concentrator units.

The company said the alluvial gold process plant will recover gold totally by gravimetric separation and

no chemicals will be utilised in the process.

This project, once operational, will add to the vibrant gold-mining sub-sector which represents 8.8 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – the third largest non-oil sector of the economy – and more than

60 per cent of the nation’s total non-oil export earnings.

Guyana currently has over 25 mining companies active in Guyana, and with the country poised for exponential growth, more players are expected to enter the industry.

A pictorial representation of a gold-processing plant

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday May 17, 2022

GCC dominates Bounty/Antonio’s Grill hockey opener Among moments of brilliant sunshine and scattered drizzles over the immaculate Providence stadium field, the GCC ladies and men opened the 2022 local hockey season with a dominant showing.

The GBTI GCC Tigers won in a penalty shootout after needing to make up a two-goal deficit against their club’s counterparts -the GCC Spartans -- while the GCC Junior Vets were victorious over the Pepsi Hikers in similar fashion after a 0-0 draw at full time.

With opening goals from unlikely juniors, Ameriah Sahadeo and Madison Singh, the ‘gods’ seemed to favour the Spartans to defeat the favoured GCC Tigers.

Aliyah Gordon did a fine job in goal for the Spartans and seeing them to the half without conceding despite the Tigers firepower of national strikers, Princessa Wilkie and Samantha Fernandes.

The second half saw Tigers captain, Gabriella Xavier, push up from defence into a midfield playmaking role to pile the pressure onto the Spartans.

Defender, and eventual MVP, Ulrica Sutherland, was all over the field in an effort to tame the Tigers, but Xavier finally was able to make the breakthrough by scoring with four minutes remaining on

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the clock.

Frustration grew as the Tigers surely thought time would rob them of gold but striker Sandy Roopnarine found herself free in the circle to deflect an accurate cross from Xavier with mere seconds remaining in the match.

The 2-2 draw would take the final into a penalty shootout.

Princessa Wilkie and Samantha Fernandes both scored their penalties but only midfielder Madison Fernandes could match them with a goal on the Spartans end leaving the Tigers to celebrate their victory.

The men’s final also came down to the wire although the match remained scoreless at full time.

Both sides displayed good moments of hockey

but outstanding defending from GCC’s Dwayne Scott and Hikers Rayon Brandford, coupled with good goalkeeping at either end denied all attempts at goal.

Goalkeeper Michael Xavier would be GCC’s hero in the resulting shootout as he denied the national duo of Aroydy Branford and Jamarj Assanah during their shootout attempts.

Devin Hooper and Alan Fernandes, for GCC, converted their penalties in spite of great efforts by custodian David Williams.

The finals followed a full day of hockey which started at 8:00AM until dark.

Eight men’s teams and six women’s teams competed in the two divisions.

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This competition marked a late start to the Guyana Hockley Board season and their return after a couple of years due to suspension of activities resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The final results were as follows: Ladies Champion –

GBTI GCC Tigers Ladies runners up – GCC Spartans Ladies MVP – Ulrica Sutherland (Spartans) Men’s Champions – GCC Junior Vets Men’s runners up – PEPSI Hikers Men’s MVP – Warren Williams (Old Fort)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday May 17, 2022

UDFA ‘Return to Play’ Senior League…

Coomacka stop Kwakwani 4-0, champions Eagles down Hi Stars 4-2

By Joe Chapman THE Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA’s) ‘Return To Play’ Senior League got underway with enterprising wins for Coomacka and Eagles United last Sunday night, at the Mackenzie Sports Club.

The event commenced following the march past which had eleven of the thirteen clubs participating.

In the first game Coomacka FC, led by a brace from Wheatland Thom, dismissed the feeble challenge posed by Kwakwani Strikers. In the 19th minute Cassie Campbell opened the scoring for Coomacka with a sturdy header from a corner dispatched by Lionel Paul.

That lead would double for Coomacka FC when a cross was also placed into the back of the net from a head-shot by lanky striker, Shaquille Frank, in the 30th minute; the first half ended 2-0 in favour of the boys from the Mines.

Two minutes after play

Coomacka FC scorers, from left Shaquille Frank, Wheatland Thom and Cassius Campbell

resumed Wheatland Thom sent the Mines community team further head, collecting a through pass in the middle from teammate Campbell and planting it past the hapless Kwakwani goalkeeper.

As the Coomacka boys kept up the pressure Thom got his second goal in the 56th minute with a shot from on top the 18 yards box for

the eventual 4-0 win.

Game two of the evening started in dramatic fashion as Hi Stars surprisingly went ahead in the 2nd minute from a close range shot from Osapho Ross, who connected from a rebound.

That shocked the defending league champions, Eagles United, who, however, kept their composure.

Swag Entertainment Repeat as ‘Linden Guinness In The Streets’ champion Kendolph Lewis' unerring accuracy helped Swag Entertainment retain their Linden ‘Guinness In The Streets’ football title with a heart-throbbing 2-0 win against Amazing when they clashed Saturday night at the Christianburg Hard Court.

It was a flashy display by the defending champion who, by virtue of this championship, earned the $300,000 prize and the right to represent Linden in the National Guinness In The Streets championship later this year.

For reaching the final and a hard-fought loss, Amazing won for themselves $200,000.

Goals off the boot of Lewis were registered in the 10th and 14th minutes; first from close range and the other a banging drive, being enough to see Swag get past a spirited effort

by Amazing on a wet surface, which created challenges for the players in front of a large crowd.

The Christianburg-based

Swag Entertainment pose with the trophy

Swag Entertainment staved off a spirited fight from their opponent as the final minutes would attest to.

In the third place playoff game, Silver Bullets got past DC Ballers 4-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 stalemate.

Earlier in the evening, Swag Boss eliminated Silver Bullets 5-1 in their second semi final

game 5-1 while in the first, Amazing knocked out DC Ballers 1-0.

In the third place playoff game, Eng scored a 1-0 victory against Popp to cart off $100,000; the losers received $70,000.

Kendolph Lewis was adjudged the most valuable player.

Eagles United's scorers, from left Colwyn Drakes, Deon Charter and Kendolph Lewis

Playing themselves back into the game the Eagles side would knot the scores through forward Kendolph Lewis’ header in the 20th minute from a left side cross.

But the exuberance of Hi Stars remained and, this time, through Jermaine King, would cause more excitement for fans when he scored to send the West

Watooka community side again into the lead in the 30th minute.

However, the reigning league title holders Eagles United would have none of it, and, from a squared ball, Deon Carter would find the back of the net in the 42nd minute to draw level for a second time.

Eagles United would

gain the lead at the stroke of half time through the alert Colwyn Drakes who was there to tuck the ball past the keeper after a fumble to ensure the half ended 3-2.

Both sides continued to battle for control in the second half but it was the experienced Eagles United, who would display better ball control and would increase the lead through Drakes.

He was fed the ball by Donovan Francis and with a fine placement finished the play in the 72nd minute; that would be the final goal of the game as Eagles United opened their defence of their league title with a 4-2 win.

Among those in attendance were Mayor of Linden, Ms. Waneka Arrendell, UDFA President Wainwright Bethune and Guyana Football Federation Technical Director (ag.)

Bryan Joseph.

The competition will continue on Friday night with two more matches in the UDFA ‘Return To Play’ Senior League championship at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

Team Foundation takes top spots at Three-Stage Cycling Trinidadian Akil Campbell won the 39th edition of the annual Independence Three-Stage Cycling championship, sponsored by the National Sports Commission in collaboration with the Guyana Cycling Federation, which was completed on Sunday.

Campbell finished ahead of his Team Foundation partner, Jamual John of Guyana.

Campbell won the third stage, which ended on Homestretch Avenue, to add to his victory in the first stage.

His overall time of 7 hours, 18 minutes, and 19 seconds (7:18.19s) was the fastest over the three stages, while Jamaul John was second in both the final stage

and overall. He turned in a time of 7 hours, 22 minutes and 32 seconds.

Finishing third overall and in the final stage was Curtis Dey who stopped the clock at 7 hours, 28 minutes and 36 seconds, while Kemuel Moses was fourth with a time of 7 hours, 28 minutes and 50 seconds. Jason Cameron held on for fifth with a time of 7 hours, 32 minutes and 51 seconds.

Cameron finished just three seconds ahead of David Hicks (sixth) as Hicks edged out Deoraj Garbaran (seventh) by seven seconds, who bettered Walter Grant-Stuart’s (eighth) time by only a second. Marcus Keeler and Andre Greene rounded out the top ten, in that order.

Grant-Stuart was the overall top Veteran rider, clocking seven hours, 33 minutes, 02 seconds, followed by Robin Persaud in second and Paul Choo-weenam third.

In the junior category, which was a shorter distance than the seniors, Arjoon Sookhai, the son of veteran rider, Jaikarran Sookhai, was crowned champion with a best overall time of five hours, 58 minutes, 15 seconds, narrowly prevailing over Sherwin Sampson, who was timed at five hours, 58 minutes, 19 seconds.

The female category, which involved only two riders, saw Clivecia Spencer outdoing Denise Jefferey to claim the title.

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday May 17, 2022

EDFA Football tournament…

Contrasting wins for Melanie, Dynamic FC There were contrasting wins for the Melanie FC and Dynamic FC as the East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) League continued on Sunday evening.

Played at the Buxton ground, the double header featured Melanie doing battle with Mahaica Determinators; the former winning by

a one goal margin 3-2.

After a goal-less first round, it was the Mahaica side that took first jump, Auzamah Roberts scoring in the 55th minute before Seon Haywood (57th) leveled things up.

Haywood would return to score his brace in the 76th and then later, his hat trick in 85th to seal the scoring

Eon Abel (left) and Azumah Roberts for Mahaica Determinators

for the eventual winners Melanie FC; Eon Able in the 90th minute pulling one back.

In the second game, Haslington FC stood no chance against the Dynamic FC. As their name suggested, the Dynamic squad slammed home seven goals; four before the end of the first half to enforce their authority.

Seon Haywood scored a hat trick

Anthony Abrams (extreme left) was one of the goal scorers for the Dynamic FC squad

A brace each for Carlos Kingston (38th and 48th) along with Adam

Gonzalves (60th and 51st) coupled with strikes from Anthony Abrams (8th),

Bryan Wharton (17th) and Travis Williams (32nd).

Ladies Champs - GBTI GCC Tigers

GCC dominates Bounty/Antonio’s Grill hockey opener 25

Cox, Danns, Bobb among 31 named in preliminary squad for Nations League

PAGE

Mens Champs - GCC Junior Vets

Team Foundation takes top 26 spots at Three-Stage Cycling PAGE

Akil Campbell (left) and Jamual John crossed the finish line together on Sunday (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/May 15, 2022) Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

Several of the usual names are in the preliminary squad

Golden Jaguars head coach, Jamaal Shabazz, has called 31 players to attend a training camp in Trinidad from May 20 – 29 after which the squad will be trimmed to 26 for upcoming fixtures in the CONCACAF Nations League.

Jaguars, who are grouped alongside Haiti, Bermuda and Montserrat, will play their first match against Montserrat on June 4 in the Dominican Republic.

Shabazz has named several overseas-based players who are expected to attend the training sessions.

Golden Jaguars preliminary squad: Goalkeepers: Alex Murray, Quillan Roberts, Sese Norville, Akel Clarke Defenders: Marcus Wilson, Quincy Adams, Jaylen Jones, Jeremy Garrett, Kevin Layne, Matthew Briggs, Leo Lovell, Shemar Fraser, Sam Cox Midfielders: Daniel Wilson, Nathan-Moriah Welsh, Clive Nobrega, Job Caesar, Curtez Kellman, Javier George, Neil Danns Forwards: Trayon Bobb, Marcel Barrington, Kelsey Benjamin, Jamal Perriera, Terell Ondaan, Ryan Hackett, Pernell Schultz, Anthony Jeffrey, Omari Glasgow, Emery Welshman, Stephen Duke McKenna Match schedule Saturday, June 4 – Montserrat v Guyana– 19:30hrs Venue: Felix Sanchez Stadium, Dominican Republic Tuesday, June 7 – Guyana v Bermuda– 16:00hrs Venue: National Track and Field Facility, Leonora Saturday, June 11 – Guyana v Haiti– 16:00hrs Venue: National Track and Field Facility, Leonora Tuesday, June 14 – Haiti v Guyana– 18:00hrs Venue: Felix Sanchez Stadium, Dominican Republic March 25, 2023 – Bermuda v Guyana Venue: Hamilton, Bermuda March 28, 2023 – Guyana v Montserrat Venue: Guyana Following the round-robin group stage, the League A group winners and runners-up (eight teams) and the League B group winners (four teams) will guarantee their participation in the 17th edition of the Gold Cup. Furthermore, 12 other teams will have an opportunity to qualify for the tournament via the Gold Cup Prelims.

The Prelims will include the participation of the League A third-place finishers (four teams), the League B second-place finishers (four teams), and the League C group winners (four teams).

TUESDAY, MAY 17, 2022