Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_30_04_2022

saturday 30th april, 2022

No.106708

‘Bed and Breakfast’ providers gear up for CPL

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16

Coalition left NIS in $1.7B deficit PAGE

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–– after taking over entity with an operating surplus of $968M, says Jagdeo

–– contends scheme’s investment in Berbice Bridge was best investment

Climate change, fossil fuels, 03 taxation policies PAGE

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

VAT removed from 15 cement PAGE

–– among issues discussed by President Ali and US Vice-President Kamala Harris during interaction

US Vice-President, Kamala Harris

President Ali calls Man chokes wife to for ‘meaningful’ 02 death, buries her in apology over slavery shallow grave 05 PAGE

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

President Ali calls for ‘meaningful’ apology over slavery –– after meeting UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

GUYANA’S President has called for an apology from the UK over its role in the transatlantic slave trade, after meeting Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Speaking to Sky News, Irfaan Ali explained that a decision calling for reparations over “one of the greatest atrocities in human history” must be taken by all Caribbean nations.

“That suffering was

not only immense, it was generational, and a lot of wealth was derived from the suffering,” President Ali said.

His comments come after the Earl and Countess of Wessex visited the Caribbean, where they faced anti-colonial protesters who demanded apologies and reparations for the UK’s participation in the slave trade.

Although politicians and royals have acknowl-

edged the “atrocities,” they have yet to apologise.

President Ali said this needs to be addressed and he believes “the conversation is getting closer to an apology.”

“Not a simple apology, it has to have great depth and meaning. But in my view and looking at the last announcements, I think they’re heading closer to that position,” he said.

The two leaders previously met at the climate summit, COP26 (Photo credit: AP) The President ex- now that makes up these Johnson to discuss ways plained that his optimism countries, all our coun- in which the UK can incomes from the contin- tries. We cannot distance vest in his country. ued work of CARICOM, ourselves from history,” He explained that dean intergovernmental he said. spite recently discovorganisation that repHe added that more ering huge amounts of resents the interests of countries are “moving to offshore gas and oil, inthe Caribbean -- as well republicanism to demon- vestment in the country as collectively calling for strate their full indepen- is vital. reparations. dence” and deciding to “Revenues from oil “We have established “walk on a new path”. and gas are not transa committee in the reHowever, President formational if it is not gion itself that is looking Ali explained that the utilised to create transat this, because we un- intention is not to com- formation, and the transderstand that the region pletely cut all ties -- but formation we want to needs to have a common to be treated as “equals.” create must begin with position,” he said.

In the future, he said the people,” the PresiHe added that it’s he wants a “stronger rela- dent said. better if the Caribbean tionship” between CARHe explained that countries unite in order ICOM and the UK, and G u y a n a ’ s e c o n o m y to “advance the process.” hopes Britain will pay should become multiBy the end of the more attention by “work- faceted, and thinks this Wessex tour, Antigua ing with the small-island is where UK investment and Barbuda as well as developing states.” may come in.

Saint Kitts and Nevis de“There is a recogni“The transformation clared their intention to tion that there needs to that’s taking place in distance themselves from be a re-set of the relation- Guyana requires a lot of the British monarchy. ship in a way that gives investment, it requires It comes as Jamaica more prominence to the a lot of new technoloand Belize expressed Caribbean, Guyana, and gy, and the UK has now a similar interest when the UK,” he said. “And been dynamically pursuthe Duke and Duchess of that is happening, that is ing those opportunities,” Cambridge visited a few a work in progress.”

President Ali explained. weeks before.

While relations beHe described the Guyana was among tween some Caribbean meeting held with Mr one of the first Caribbean countries and the UK Johnson as “excellent,” countries to become a re- have come under strain, adding that they dispublic in the 1970s, and Mr Ali is still hoping to cussed a range of issues Mr Ali said sometimes strengthen his partner- such as climate change, change is for the best. energy security, and ship with the UK. “The colonial past Earlier this week, forest management. is part of the history the President met Boris (Sky News)

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Coalition left NIS in $1.7B deficit

–– after taking over entity with an operating surplus of $968M, says Jagdeo –– contends scheme’s investment in Berbice Bridge was best investment VICE-PRESIDENT, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, on Friday, dismissed claims made by the Opposition APNU+AFC that bad investments of National Insurance Scheme (NIS) funds under the previous PPP/C Administration have gotten the entity to its current state.

Dr Jagdeo was recently reported in sections of the media as saying that the NIS is bankrupt. Speaking to reporters at a press conference on Friday, Jagdeo stated that he was asked at a recent outreach by a citizen about the possibility of increasing benefits from the NIS. In response, he noted that the NIS is practically bankrupt but government will ensure contributors, past and present continue to receive their benefits.

“So, I can’t commit at an outreach to an increase in benefits but what we do, we make sure that people don’t… some they wake up like in other pension funds across the world and find that they can’t receive their monthly benefits or their medical benefits, that will

The Vice-President speaking at the press conference on Friday (Adrian Narine photo) not happen but I can’t com- under the APNU+AFC Ad- counts for the National Inmit to an increase in bene- ministration the fund was surance Scheme. In 2015, fits,” said the Vice-President. in a deficit, even though it had an operating surplus As such, he said it is im- there were issues with the of $968 million, in 2016, portant to be honest with the benefits prior but not in the $161 million that is an oppeople and let them know long-term. erating surplus, so it still that the fund is not in good It was then that Jagdeo had money. In 2017, $175 shape and the government went into details about the million in deficit, in 2018, will intervene.

NIS accounts. $1.6 billion in deficit, in He also pointed out that “We have here the ac- 2019, $1 billion in deficit,

in 2020, $1.7 billion in deficit,” the Vice-President told reporters.

He reiterated that NIS moved from a big operating surplus under the PPP/C Administration to a large operating deficit under the Coalition Government.

Meanwhile, he noted that the opposition in a statement brought up the issue of the NIS investing some $2.5 billion in common shares in the Berbice River Bridge.

This statement, the Vice-President pointed out is inaccurate, pointing out that NIS invested $300 million in bond one, $760 million in bond two, $500 million in the subordinate debt, $950 million in preference shares and only $80 million in common shares.

“So on the bonds, the $300 million was paid back and they received $276 million in interest so on that investment of $300 million they received back their investment of $300 million and $276 million in interest so they got $576 million there. On the $760 million, they received $995 million in interest, so they

received more in interest than the principal investment so when you put the two combined that’s close to $1.8 billion, they got back,” he explained.

He further noted that on the subordinate debt, some $65 million has been redeemed even as $517 million in interest was received; for the preference shares, $268 million have been received while there have been no returns on the $80 million invested in common shares.

“They (NIS) invested about $2.5 billion in total how much money did they receive back. They received two billion dollars in interest and payment for their preference shares and about $1.3 billion in principle repayment so far they have received $3.3 billion from a $2.5 billion investment.”

The investment by NIS in the bridge is the best investment by the insurance company, he said and contended that the view being pushed by the Coalition that the NIS’s investment into the bridge caused the current problem with the scheme is a fallacy.

Climate change, fossil fuels, taxation policies

–– among issues discussed by President Ali and US Vice-President Kamala Harris during interaction

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday called for a better working relationship between the United States of America and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), especially in understanding and respecting the policies of the region.

In a virtual discussion with the Vice-President of the USA, Kamala Harris, the Guyanese Head of State spoke about the “strong and strengthened relationship” between the US and Guyana, but he also called for more trust and better coordination at both the country-to-country level

and between the US and CARICOM. “There is an absolute need for the building of trust— trust in our policy formulation, and trust and predictability in what we do; trust in the partnership that we seek to endeavour and this trust, I think, must lead to an institutional arrangement, outside of the annual meeting that will allow us to address some very key issues—energy and climate change being two of them.”

The President joined the Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley in Bridgetown for the virtual meeting, where he also called for the

need to address international taxation policies, the future direction of those policies and the possibility of their severe impact on the region’s economies.

“Many of our countries are facing a disproportionate application of international regulation and laws,” he noted.

President Ali also spoke extensively on climate change and fossil fuels. He said that while the world is heading in the direction of reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, locking out new suppliers can create a monopoly for those who are currently involved in the oil

industry.

“The question is, if you’re locking out new suppliers, it is to whose advantage? We can be very well creating a monopoly for those who are already in the business, who have already extracted this natural resource and developed their own jurisdiction.”

He said that this is an issue that requires an “indepth conversation” and that the region “must be part of that conversation in defining this policy, going forward.”

The President also spoke about Guyana’s standing forest, which stores 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and

is worth US$500B. He said that the annual revenue the country should receive from carbon credits stands at US$200M. On the matter of climate change, adaptation and mitigation, the President explained that forested countries such as Guyana are not prioritised.

He said that Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson assured him this week that “he is spearheading an effort” to ensure that standing forests become a priority.

“I think this need also to be on the [US] agenda.”

The issue of climate

change, according to President Ali, requires stronger conversations, especially when it comes to financial pledges from developed nations.

The President also spoke about energy sustainability, food security and regional security and about the bolstered relationship between Guyana and the US. “The US is playing a major role in the development of our energy sector from the private sector’s perspective and I must say, at the diplomatic level, the representation locally has also helped us.” (Office of the President)

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Farmers get prized Black Giant chickens –– to help boost their dwindling poultry stocks

FORTY farmers from various communities were on Friday the recipients of 100 Black Giant chickens each for the purpose of breeding and egg production, courtesy of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).

According to GLDA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dwight Waldron, a total of 100 farmers will benefit from this aspect of the government’s flood relief intervention efforts, officially referred to as ‘the Black Giant programme’, so as to ensure that the nation’s food security is intact.

The Black Giant is reportedly a large dual-purpose breed of chickens, which has the ability to produce up to 200 eggs annually, and about 4.5 kilograms of meat each. These birds also have the ability to not only graze and forage, but to eat leftovers from the kitchen as well and still be able to reproduce reasonably well. Speaking at the handing over of the chicks, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha recalled the terrible loss that local farmers countrywide would have suffered about a year ago owing to widespread

flooding, saying that the gesture is the government’s way of helping them get back on their feet.

“Almost one year ago, we suffered from a flood; the majority of our agriculture crops were destroyed, and a number of livestock was destroyed. At the time, the president made a commitment that we will be giving help to the farmers of our country,” Minister Mustapha said, adding that the reason he did so is because of his recognition of the importance of the agriculture sector to our economy, even though the country is now Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha handing over the Black Giant chicks to farmers widely regarded as an oiland-gas producer.

As the President has been wont to say time and again, Minister Mustapha reminded those farmers present at the function that revenues from the oil-and-gas sector will be used to help develop other sectors of the country, so that its economy can be resilient, which is why a whopping $135 million was allocated this year to the development of the agriculture sector through genetic improvement.

He also recalled that the Ministry of Agriculture has also been equipping the sector to withstand the

April 27, 2022

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shocks and effects of climate change, hence the allocation of in excess of $22 billion in this year’s budget to be used for expressly that purpose.

“The total of the budget for agriculture is approximately $22 billion; it’s one of the best budgets I’ve ever heard,” Minister Mustapha said, adding: “The budget will continue the projects that are in our Manifesto, and it will see the economic transformation of Guyana.

“It is people-centered, and it is focused on the continued transformation of our country.”

29/04/22- 5, 6, 8, 12, 14, 15, 17

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Man chokes wife to death, buries her in shallow grave

A 55-year-old man is in police custody after he confessed to beating and choking his wife to death, wrapping her body in a sheet and dragging it across a street before burying it a nearby empty lot.

The dead woman has been identified as Waynumattie “Dataley” Permaul, 53, a mother of four, including West Indies cricketer Veerasammy Permaul.

The suspect, Avemanen “Terry” Permaul, detailed to police that he overheard the woman on her phone speaking to a male when he became enraged and confronted her.

According to information received, the couple have been separated for the past two years; however, they have been sharing the same house: Terry lives in the upper flat and Dataley as she is popularly called, in the lower flat.

She was last seen alive

Avemanen “Terry” Permaul and Waynumattie “Dataley” Permaul in happier times last Thursday and on the same day a missing-person report was filed by the cricketer. As an investigation commenced, the father was questioned and he initially denied knowing anything about her whereabouts.

However, he was kept in custody, and as the police continued their interrogation, he admitted to the crime in the wee hours of Friday.

He reportedly told investigators that last Thursday, between 18:00hrs to

18:30hrs, he was close to his wife’s bedroom and he overheard her on the phone speaking with a male and decided to confront her.

A heated argument ensued and he physically assaulted her by cuffing and then choking her until she became bloodied and motionless. He then wrapped her in a bed sheet, left her on the floor, walked across about 100 yards opposite his home where there is an empty lot and dug a hole.

He then returned to his home where he dragged his wife’s motionless body to the hole, put it inside and covered it with earth and quietly returned home.

Following investigations, sleuths found what appeared to be blood stains on the tiles inside of the lower flat of the house, at the front door, outer part of a metal bed foot area and on the bedroom floor.

Meanwhile, at the home

of the Permauls, relatives and close family members were in shock and disbelief.

Because of their emotional state they were unable to speak to reporters.

However, neighbours and residents alike also expressed shock and dismay as news of Dataley’s death spread in the community of Kilcoy/Chesney, East Berbice, Corentyne.

“Quiet, kind-hearted, soft-spoken and friendly,” were some of the words used to describe her by neighbours. At the scene, a garbage bag and pieces of clothing were visible.

A neighbour, Stephanie Henry, recalled during the course of Thursday evening that she noticed the police vehicle and officers at the empty lot next to her yard searching for close to two hours. They left and returned once more around 22:00hrs.

She added that sometime around 01:00hrs, she heard

Dead: Waynumattie “Dataley” Permaul vehicles again and this time she looked and saw police searching in the empty lot and after an hour, she heard a police call out, “The lady here! The lady here!”.

She said upon hearing that her body became weak with the shock of the discovery as she never expected to find her “quiet and friendly” neighbour dead in the empty plot of land metres away from her home.

An investigation into the gruesome murder is ongoing.

Assuria opens $4M branch office at Anna Regina ASSURIA Insurance opened a $4M branch office at Anna Regina on Friday, affording Region Two residents more options for insurance services.

The company’s ninth branch office is located at Builders Hardware store, opposite the C V Nunes Primary School.

During the launch, Managing-Director of Assuria Guyana, Yogindra Arjune, said the office provides employment for two persons and more persons will be employed as the company expands operations.

He described the opening as historic since the company is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Guyana. Assuria

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh (second right) at the cutting of the ceremonial ribbon as Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva (third left) and others look on serves 25,000 customers and some 150 persons have already signed up in Region Two. The company offers fire,

motor, life and other types of insurance and has offices at Vreed-En-Hoop, Parika, Rosehall, Corriverton, Giftland Mall, Amazonia Mall,

Linden and now at Anna Regina. Its head office is located in Georgetown.

Arjune said the company is passionate about giving

back to the regions in which it has operations and presented a cheque worth $500,000 to the Mayor of Anna Regina to help beautify the town.

In December 2021, the company ended the year’s promotion by giving clients the opportunity to win one of 12 electric bikes. The company has also contributed to the Essequibo Cricket Board’s Coach Development and High Performance Clinic held recently, and 15 trophies to the Suddie Public Hospital for International Midwife Day. Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh said that the branch has opened at a

time when Guyana is transforming. The demand for insurance products, he said, is expected to increase in the coming years.

“I want to congratulate you for opening of the branch, I am very glad about the health insurance, I am glad Assuria took the step,” said Dr Singh.

He also spoke about the various government investments to ensure that all economic sectors remain sustainable.

Also in attendance at the launch were Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva; Regional Vice- Chairman, Humace Oodit and Regional Executive Officer, Susannah Saywack.

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Improving Government Services BEFORE the COVID-19 pandemic forced the hands of governments and businesses around the world to aggressively advance their digital solutions and ensure a continuation of services and products, it was difficult for many to envision the world we live in now.

It is not to say this new way of the world was unexpected, but rather, undoubtedly, our acceleration into this new world was hastened drastically by the pandemic. A McKinsey & Company report from late 2020 suggested that: “During the pandemic, consumers have moved dramatically toward online channels, and companies and industries have responded in turn. The survey results confirm the rapid shift toward interacting with customers through digital channels.”

Earlier in 2020, McKinsey plugged the need for digital transformation, noting: “If a digital transformation stalls, the results suggest that organisations can regain momentum by implementing rigorous change-management and internal communications programs and clarifying the transformation’s projected impact, which can help build alignment and commitment.”

Although McKinsey, as a global management consulting firm with a deep interest in digital transformation, focused heavily on the provision of products and services by private

entities, there is value in government taking on a similar approach, and so it has.

Guyana is leaning in to the digital transformation. On April 20, the consultation for Guyana’s Information and Communication (ICT) Master Plan 2030: “Discovery kick off” was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali addressed the gathering of government ministers, permanent secretaries and other senior government functionaries. His Excellency’s message of efficiency and reliability in the delivery of government’s services not only forms part of Guyana’s focus to improve the investor climate, but equally reflects government’s commitment to ensuring citizens have a smoother user interface when accessing public services.

The Master Plan 2030 that manifests from this recent validation exercise, as the stakeholder engagements started more than a year ago, will transform government’s service delivery in education, healthcare, security, and other sectors, and will also improve accountability through more robust monitoring and evaluation of these deliveries to all stakeholders.

In his words, President Ali said: “From security to education, all of it will be on an ICT [Information and Communication Tech-

nology] platform that will put our country in the group of nations that utilise ICT as a main architecture in our problem-solving.”

There are cultures, however, to be changed among lead administrators, including the culture of resistance of some to ICT-related transformations. McKinsey, recognising the potential for delays in implementing digital solutions, said: “For scaling digital programs beyond the pilot phase—the first stumbling block in a transformation’s execution—clarity on the time frame and expected economic impact is important, as is partnering with operations.”

Within Guyana’s public sector, the stakeholder engagement team, tasked by the President, had their share of challenges resulting from this very resistant culture. Commenting on this, President Ali said: “Some sectors have been very poor in their response, some sectors were lethargic, some sectors were clearly not interested.

“And you will see the results of your disinterest. But we have given a clear instruction that those who are not going to push this agenda and be a part of this transformation… will have to step aside and allow those who are… pushing this agenda forward to make it happen.”

He continued: “People, sometimes, are

resistant to change, especially when you feel you are less powerful with change. But this is a necessary step forward. This is an essential part of the service-delivery component of the government… this is the future of the country.”

Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, recognised also that government’s ICT push could flop if all stakeholders were not on the same page. “Somehow within government agencies,” Dr Jagdeo remarked to the gathering at the consultation, “people believe that once you are talking about an ICT masterplan, an ICT vision, that the most relevant person in the ministry is the ICT officer, or the people who deal with your internet connections.” This was far from what government envisioned.

To put it more succinctly, Dr Jagdeo captured the vision well when he remarked: “We want a smoother interaction between the citizens and government across all sectors.” There is no need to point out all of the transformations Guyana has seen in the last two years. There are hardly enough column inches.

What is evident from government’s intention and action is that Guyanese and non-Guyanese alike will experience a different Guyana than existed years prior. A welcomed improvement.

Norton must show maturity and act responsibly Dear Editor, I APPLAUD the appointment of Mr Aubrey Norton as MP (PNC or APNU) and Leader of the Opposition.

An injustice was committed against the PNC leader when he was not immediately chosen as a MP following his victory for leadership of the party last December. In any other country, the leader of an opposition party would be made Opposition Leader once he or she is elected to Parliament, unless the position is declined as had happened in India some years ago when LK Advani turned it down in favour of a protégé.

Norton was kept out of Parliament for too long -- over three months -- and the Parliament (Coalition) was without an official Opposition Leader (OL). As I penned last December after Norton’s victory in the leadership contest and again a month later, it was inevitable that he would become MP and Leader of

the Opposition. One can’t defy rules of principles for too long in organic politics.

The man is deserving of both positions.

In almost every country, save India, from my studies in Comparative politics, the leader of the largest opposition party in Parliament (or the person commanding the support of the greater number of opposition legislators) is the OL. In India, a party leader must have 10 per cent support of the MPs of the House in order to be granted the title of OL. India has been without an OL since May 2014 because no opposition party won 10 per cent of seats. Guyana and other countries don’t have a minimum number of opposition MPs as supporting the leader.

The OL title comes with honours, perks, and privileges. In almost every country, including India, the OL is given the rank of a cabinet minister with all perks that come with it, including an official office, several assistants, security, etc.

The PNC membership voted for Nor-

ton as leader and that vote should be respected. Norton’s victory last December was not surprising, although the percentage of party members who participated in the polls was less than half. Norton is a known political street fighter.

He has been around a long time as a PNC activist, since the days of Burnham.

He had run-ins with Desmond Hoyte who didn’t have kind words of him. But he is attached to the PNC’s grassroots base.

The primary role of an OL is to expose the government and hold it accountable.

The OL does not have to oppose everything, and he or she does not have to be perennially confrontational. OLs are known to support government on critical issues. Norton should critique and praise when necessary. Norton’s predecessors were opposed to almost every measure of the Ali administration. Norton must show he is different from predecessors who caused the party to lose support. But the members of the public I have interacted

with say so far there are no signals that Norton is breaking from the past. They say they would like to see him drop the confrontational attitude of predecessors and work with the government on selected issues of interest to the country.

The OL is reminded that he is head of the shadow government in waiting.

He is shadow President. He must act accordingly and responsibly. He should accept an invitation from President Ali to meet to discuss constitutional commission issues.

This should be a matter of urgency.

The OL is advised that he cannot dictate what can be discussed, but he can request and engage in quid pro quo to arrive at a reasonable solution to nagging issues.

The OL is reminded that unless he acts responsibly, the support base of his party and that of himself will erode.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

London Bridge Still Falling Down!

By Earl Bousquet AS the English tend to say: ‘All’s well that ends well!’

But all didn’t exactly end well for the Royal Family’s second 2022 ‘Caribbean Charm Offensive’ by Prince Edward, (Earl of Wessex) and his wife Sophie (Countess of Wessex) that started and ended in Saint Lucia, over which Britain and France fought 14 times before the prized ‘Helen of the West’ was ceded to Britain by a Paris treaty, with overwhelming and everlasting French influence.

The British ruled for 165 years (1814 to 1979), after which Whitehall gave the island independence status, but with a Constitution that kept it within the realm of the club of former British colonies, The Commonwealth, of which Queen Elizabeth II is monarch and Head of State.

But never mind the military and political battles over the ‘Helen’, slavery was never interrupted in Saint Lucia.

The royal visit to the island 43 years after independence was no different to that experienced by Edward’s nephew William (and his wife Kate Middleton) in March: welcomed with mixed reaction, including expressions of regret that no protests seemed to have been organised in Saint Lucia, concern about the cost of the visit to local taxpayers and interest in how the new government’s $1.8 billion 2022-23 Budget would help them through the price rises caused by the Ukraine War. But despite no announcement of a formal programme, the Royal Visitors soon learned that Saint Lucians are no less supportive of their and CARICOM Governments’ calls for Reparations

from Britain for Slavery and Native Genocide.

The Saint Lucia National Reparations Committee (NRC) held a twohours-long Live Press Conference on August 26, where founding member Ras Wisely Tafari -- also chair of the Caribbean Rastafari Organization (CRO) -- noted that despite the United Nations (UN) having declared TransAtlantic Slavery ‘A Crime Against Humanity’ in 2001, Britain and other European nations that benefitted still refuse to offer “a Full and Formal Apology” for “Slavery and Native Genocide” as called for by all 14 CARICOM governments since 2013.

He also gave a detailed account of the role of the Royal Africa Company, which significantly helped further enrich the Royal Family through the Trans-Atlantic Slave trade.

The Royal African Company was founded in 1672 and granted a monopoly in the slave trade (1680-1686), sponsoring 249 voyages to Africa between 1680 and 1688 and transporting an average of 5,000 enslaved Africans per year.

Nkrumah Lucien, another founding member and a History lecturer at St. Mary’s College, offered several examples of Reparations having been paid before: to France by Haiti (up to 1957) for planters ‘losses’ during the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804); to British plantation owners for loss of property (land and slaves) after ‘Abolition’ of slavery by the British Parliament (1834); to Jews by Germany (from 1952) for the Nazi genocide; to Japanese-Americans (1988) for forced internment during World War II; to Namibia by Germany (2021) for the genocidal atrocities

against the Nama and Herero tribes; and to Kenyans by Britain for the massacres of Mau-Mau independence fighters by British soldiers (2013).

CARICOM’s Representative on the United Nations Permanent Forum for People of African Descent Dr June Soomer (another NRC founding-member), addressed the conference virtually on issues ranging from CARICOM’s 10-point Plan for Reparatory Justice and why CARICOM wants no less than a full and formal apology, to why today’s Reparations struggle is just a continuity that started with the first slave’s resistance after capture and the role of France in slavery in Saint Lucia and other Caribbean states.

Chair of the Grenada National Reparations Commission (GNRC) Senator, Arley Gill also addressed the press conference on how Britain cancelled Grenada from the itinerary after the Bank of England admitted it owned nearly 500 slaves and two estates on the island; and the GNRC also requested an audience with the Royal Couple for “a serious discussion on Reparations” – to which it got no reply.

The NRC also announced it’s plans to launch a ‘100 Day Plan’ (between May 1 and September 7.

Then came the Royals’ Saint Lucia two-day April 27 and 28 visit.

On Wednesday morning, they got a proverbial rude awakening for breakfast: a group of placard-bearing Rastafarians offering a frosty welcome as they headed to the Fond Doux Estate in Soufriere.

Later, they were welcomed by another protest at the entrance to Government House, this time organised by the Iyanola Council for Advancement of Rastafari

(ICAR).

But the visit did not in any way change the fact that Saint Lucia is one of 14 former British West Indian colonies calling together for Reparations, not just from Britain, but also from all other European nations that built empires from the profits of Slavery.

Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ernest Hilaire made that much clear in his comments to the local press after welcoming the Royal Couple and before they left Prime Minister Pierre publicly defended “the right of the Rastafarians to protest, because we live in a democracy.”

Between the local organisers and the British handlers, the itinerary was not advertised, so the visitors met students at the Camille Henry School in Castries and visited Pigeon Island – and were boated to Soufriere to learn how cocoa is made, before visiting the Sulphur Springs.

Some sections of the British press on tow with the royal entourage ensured UK citizens were kept abreast with more details and photos about the dresses Sophie wore than the fact that the Royal Couple was reminded that now more than decades ago (when The Mighty Sparrow sang his classic), London Bridge is falling down.

And from what they heard and saw in Saint Lucia and elsewhere, Edward and Sophie will surely tell Her Majesty that her former loyal subjects are no longer loyal, now also actually calling for apologies and reparations from The Royal Family too, for its own big role in commission of the greatest crime known to humanity, TransAtlantic Slavery and Native Genocide.

Not a bad suggestion by Dr Devanand Bhagwan I FULLY support Dr Devanand Bhagwan’s suggestion to declare May Indian Heritage Month.

As he pointed out, we celebrate Black History Month and we should, considering the history of our African brothers and sisters in the country. We

also celebrate Amerindian Heritage Month in September. Therefore we should also have a month to celebrate the history of the Indians in the country.

The Indian religious and cultural organisations in the country should

immediately put programmes in place to celebrate Indian history and culture for this coming month. How about the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Arya Samaj mandirs and the Indian Action Committee (IAC) immediately having programmes organised for the next few

weeks?

I commend Dr Bhagwan for taking this initiative, since he is a Christian and is seeing this need.

Yours sincerely, Tulsi Ram Singh

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Tax revenues in LAC take a historic hit –– before showing early signs of recovery, says IDB report

TAX revenues in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) fell by eight per cent on average in nominal terms and by eight per cent as a share of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report released on Friday.

However, the region’s economic recovery and a rebound in commodity prices supported a recovery in tax revenues in 2021.

According to a release, Revenue Statistics in Latin America and the Caribbean 2022, released during the 56th General Assembly of the Inter-American Centre of Tax Administrations (CIAT), shows that the decline in tax revenues in LAC in 2020 exceeded the region’s economic contraction in nominal

terms.

Tax-to-GDP ratios fell in 20 of the 26 LAC countries covered by the report and LAC’s average taxto-GDP ratio fell by 0.8 percentage points (p.p.) to 21.9 per cent. Tax-to-GDP ratios in the LAC region ranged from 12.4 per cent in Guatemala to 37.5 per cent in Cuba in 2020.

The decline in LAC’s tax-to-GDP ratio in 2020 contrasted with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) area, where the average taxto-GDP ratio rose by 0.1 p.p. to 33.5 per cent. The gap between the LAC and OECD averages widened to 11.6 per cent of GDP in 2020 from 10.7 per cent of GDP in 2019 as a result.

Revenues from all main tax categories declined in nominal terms between 2019 and 2020

on average across the LAC region. Taxes on goods and services, which accounted for about half of total tax revenues in LAC, were the worst affected, decreasing by seven per cent of GDP on average.

Revenues from corporate income tax (CIT) declined by two per cent of GDP while revenues from personal income tax (PIT) and social security contributions (SSCs) remained relatively stable as a percentage of GDP, the release noted.

The impact of the pandemic on tax revenues differed between LAC and the OECD. As a percentage of GDP, taxes on goods and services remained unchanged in the OECD, while CIT revenues declined by twice as much as those in the LAC region and PIT and SSCs both increased. Relative to

the OECD, PIT and SSCs accounted for a small share of total tax revenues in the LAC region (28.2 per cent in LAC in 2020 versus 49.4 per cent in the OECD in 2019).

A special feature in the report highlights a decline in hydrocarbon revenues for a sample of major producers in the LAC region, from 3.1 per cent of GDP in 2019 to 2.1 per cent of GDP in 2020, but these revenues rebounded to an estimated three per cent of GDP in 2021. Meanwhile, mining revenues for major

producers in the region fell from four per cent of GDP in 2019 to three per cent in 2020 but rose to an estimated six per cent of GDP in 2021. A second special feature tracking monthly revenue data during the COVID-19 pandemic for a sample of 18 LAC countries reveals that cumulative revenues from PIT, CIT, VAT and excises between January and August 2021 rose 4.6 per cent in real terms from the equivalent period in 2019 as economies in the region recovered.

Revenue Statistics in

Latin America and the Caribbean 2022 is a joint publication by CIAT, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the OECD Centre for Tax Policy and Administration and the OECD Development Centre.

A launch event for the 2022 edition of the report will take place during ECLAC’s XXXIV Regional Fiscal Policy Seminar, the release concluded.

guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

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Accused ‘Mudwata’ on trial for allegedly cyberbullying media worker COME June 9, the trial of well-known photographer, Keron Bruce, who is accused of a cybercrime committed against local media worker, Leroy Smith, is expected to commence.

The date was set on Friday last by Principal Magistrate, Judy Latch-

man, who sits at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court.

Latchman will preside over the trial.

Earlier this month, Bruce, a 35-year-old resident of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara (EBD), made his first appearance before Magistrate, Sunil Scarce.

Bruce had denied that, on January, 25, 2021, at his recorded place of residence, he used a computer system to disseminate information about Smith, knowing it to be false with the intention of subjecting Smith to public ridicule, contempt, hatred, or embarrassment.

Bruce is represented by

attorney-at-law, Bernard DaSilva, and is currently on $100,000 bail.

In January, police launched an investigation in the matter after Smith made a report of cyber harassment from individuals who were making publications on social media under the name ‘Mudwata.’

Smith had offered a $1 million reward to anyone who could identify the voice behind the animated character.

Based on the information received, Bruce was arrested, and police claim several pieces of electronic equipment were seized from his home.

The police were also

ACCUSED: Keron Bruce able to acquire some voice messages, which when analysed, allegedly matched the ‘Mudwata’ commentary.

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Chief Magistrate recuses self from Winston Jordon case

RECOGNISING an “apparent bias”, Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan, on Friday, recused herself from presiding over the trial of former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, who is accused of misconduct in public office.

The Chief Magistrate made this announcement during a case hearing at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Jordan is currently on $3 million bail.

The former Finance Minister is represented by fellow coalition party members, attorneys-at-law, Roysdale

Forde S.C., Khemraj Ramjattan, Joseph Harmon, and Darren Wade.

Dawn Cush is also part of his legal team.

Previously, Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) prosecutor, Tuanna Hardy, requested the accused be tried summarily in the Magistrates’ Court.

However, Jordan’s lawyers raised strong objections, emphasising their preference for a trial by jury in the High Court.

If this were to happen, the matter heard in the Magistrates’ Court would be the subject of a

Preliminary Inquiry (PI).

Once the magistrate finds that a case has been made, it would then be referred to High Court for trial by a judge and jury.

Friday’s hearing was intended to be for submissions from Jordan’s lawyers. the Chief Magistrate informed the court that Cush previously served as a Magistrate in Guyana, noting that in the interest of justice, she will recuse herself of her own volition citing “apparent bias”.

The Chief Magistrate transferred the matter

Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan to Principal Magistrate, Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus. It will be heard on May 12.

Jordan’s attorneys are expected to make their argument again requesting a High Court trial.

Winston Jordan first appeared in court to respond to this matter on December 28, 2021. He

was not required to plead the charge.

It was alleged then that while he served as Finance Minister under the APNU+AFC coalition government, Jordan wilfully misconducted himself by acting recklessly when he signed NICIL (Transfer of Property) Order, No. 50 of 2020.

NICIL, the government’s privatisation unit, fell under Jordan’s ministerial portfolio.

The substantive matter was Jordan’s transferring to and vesting to BK Marine Inc., all buildings, erections, stellings, platforms and further appurtenances, at Mud Lots One and Two, F of Mud Lot Three, A, B & D, being over 2.553 acres.

In that transaction, it was reported that $20,260,276 was paid for a property initially valued

Former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan at over $5,000,000,000.

The selling price was reportedly grossly below the actual value of the assets sold.

This, the court heard from prosecution, amounted to an abuse of the public’s trust without reasonable excuse or justification.

guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Uncle, nephew on $75,000 bail each for ‘ganja trafficking’ TWO men were, on Friday, released on $75,000 bail each for their alleged involvement in drug trafficking following a recent marijuana bust at an alleged ‘drug block’ in Wismar, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice).

The co-accused, Aubrey Williams, 45, of North East La Penitence, Georgetown, and his uncle, Kester Isaacs, 56, of Train Line, Wismar, Linden appeared via Zoom early Friday before Magistrate, Wanda Fortune at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.

The duo denied that on April 27, 2022, at Train Line, they had 260 grams of cannabis in their possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Magistrate Fortune ordered the accused men to lodge their passports at the court, and report to the Offi-

cer-in-Charge at the Mackenzie Police Station every first Monday of each month.

The matter was adjourned until June 27.

According to a police report, officers from Regional Division #10 conducted an intelligence-led operation at Train Line, an alleged ‘drug block’. Their prime target was, reportedly, Williams, who was also under surveillance.

The ranks reportedly approached Williams and searched him. Inside his right-side pants pocket, the police statement said, $15,990 was found and is “suspected to be proceeds from the sale of narcotics.”

According to the police report, the officers searched the area, and found one bulky black plastic bag that contained three transparent

ACCUSED: Kester Isaacs Ziploc bags with suspected cannabis.

The police said that Williams denied ownership of the cannabis and allegedly claimed that the narcotics belonged to his uncle, Isaacs.

ACCUSED: Aubrey Williams

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

Local skincare industry thriving through GMSA’s support ­organic products to feature at Uncapped Marketplace

ALISON’S Hair and Skin Care Products was formally established by 35-year-old Alison Gilead in 2019, and offers a wide array of locally-made personal care products such as lip balms, body scrubs, and hair and skin serums.

Alison began making natural skin care products 12 years ago, with the aim of helping her son who was diagnosed with Atopic Eczema, a disorder that is characterised by inflammation of the skin (dermatitis). The condition usually begins in early infancy, and often ends before adolescence. Alison noted that the medication her son was using for the condition contained steroids that caused more damage to his skin. This prompted her search for an alternative solution, which resulted in the formulation of a skin serum, using beeswax. This serum improved his skin’s appearance tremendously, and she

Products made by Sherl Daniels

Sherl Daniels

realised that it could help other persons suffering from the same condition. “After I would have shared my inspiration for making the serum, persons were eager to try it, and it worked for them,” she shared.

Following the success of

that product, Alison ventured into producing soaps to complement the skin serum. This product, like the skin serum, was also well received by buyers on the local market, however, while her products received support from her

local clientele, Alison longed for the opportunity to expand her reach to regional and international markets. Fortunately, she was encouraged by a friend to participate in the Continued on page 13

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

Local skincare industry ...

From page 12

Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA)’s UncappeD Marketplace in 2019, and recalled that her business was able to acquire tremendous support.

“That experience was wonderful; it was the first time I went to such a huge event and received that level of support. It was a great experience for me; it helped me to put myself out there more,” the businesswoman said.

SUPPORT Since participating in the event, Alison was able to acquire continuous support from local, regional and international customers. She attributes her success to the exposure her business gained through UncappeD Marketplace. The event is scheduled to return this year for two days, April 30 and May 1, after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alison believes that the support this time around will surpass the previous years, with more exhibitors and more patrons supporting the event.

She will be launching a natural deodorant at this year’s exhibition, and patrons will be receiving free samples of some of her products.

She believes that the UncappeD event is one which provides a unique opportunity for new agro-processing businesses to become established.

As such, she praised the GMSA for providing agro-pro-

Products made by Alison Gilead

Alison Gilead

cessors with the chance to build their businesses.

“This is a way of helping agro-processors to become established, because, if I wasn’t told about the event and then participated, I would not have had this great business,” Alison said.

Similarly, UncappeD was also the catalyst of success for Sherl Marsha Daniels, the owner of Sherl’s Cosmetics.

This business, which was established in 2010, has been a part of the UncappeD experience from the inception.

Sherl’s Cosmetics offers a

number of beauty products, including shampoos and conditioners, as well as hair, body and beard oils, and body and face soaps. According to Sherl, UncappeD Marketplace was the first exhibition she participated in.

RETURNED TO BUY “Due to the UncappeD experience, we’re on the international market, because folks came to Guyana for the UncappeD event, and they used our products and then returned to buy them wholesale to resell overseas,” Sherl said, adding:

“It also helped us to reach a lot of people locally; the ‘expo’ caused people to realise that there are superior products available locally.”

Like Alison, Sherl believes that this year’s event will be spectacular, and she is optimistic about the support local agro-processors will receive. “I think it’s going to be wonderful, and I am looking forward for more people coming, and more support,” she said, while commending the

GMSA for the immeasurable opportunities being presented to local agro-processors.

This year, Sherl will be introducing a few new products to the market, including lip balms, lip glosses and body butters. Additionally, supporters can look forward to new labels and packaging.

Since 2017, the GMSA has been playing its part in the development of the local agro-processing sector though UncappeD Mar-

ketplace. UncappeD is an exhibition and food festival which was created primarily to give agro-processors a platform to showcase their products, and attract more sales. The event has benefited a number of agro-processors across the country, and is slated to return today to the Guyana National Stadium, at Providence, East Bank Demerara, from 10:00 hrs daily. (Ahreefa Bacchus of Sagacity)

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Guyana receives Humanitarian Plaque from Barbados –– for assistance in fight against COVID-19 pandemic

THE Government of Guyana on Thursday was awarded a Humanitarian Plaque by the Government of Barbados in appreciation for its assistance in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

A release from the Ministry of Foreign Af-

fairs and International Cooperation said the Inaugural Humanitarian Award ceremony was held at the Kensington Oval, on Heroes Day, a national holiday on which the people of Barbados reflect on the several achievements of post-independence nationhood and in particular, rec-

ognise the valuable contributions made by citizens.

Geneva Tyndall, acting Consul-General of Guyana, received the award from Dame Sandra Mason, President of Barbados.

Canada, China, Cuba, India and the United States of America were among the countries to receive

Geneva Tyndall, acting Consul-General of Guyana received the award from Dame Sandra Mason, President of Barbados (DPI image) Humanitarian Plaques.

The Secretary-General of the World Health Organisation, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyeus, was a special guest at the ceremony, the release noted.

Guyana and Barbados, similar to so many countries globally, have significantly felt the social and economic impacts of the pandemic and have worked in a collaborative effort to lend mutual support.

The relations between Guyana and Barbados have been strengthened considerably as President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Mia Mottley have demonstrated a firm commitment to deepening ties and advancing a practical programme of cooperation to benefit not only both countries, but the region as a whole, the release noted.

The Humanitarian Plaque Guyana received from Barbados (DPI image)

Construction worker guilty of rape A MIXED jury, on Friday last, found 45-year-old construction worker, Clincy David, guilty on two counts of rape committed on a 13-year-old girl.

David was on trial before Justice, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court.

The first count against David stated that on April 8, 2020, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with the victim by trying to put his penis in her vagina.

The second count stated that on July 13, 2020, David

engaged in sexual penetration with the young teenager.

David had denied both counts, professing his innocence.

The jury, after deliberating for more than two hours on Friday afternoon, returned the guilty verdicts.

The convicted man will be sentenced on June 10. A probation report and a psychiatric evaluation for David will be presented to the Court.

The now-convicted man was represented by attorney-at-law, Teriq Mohammed, while the state was represented by prosecutor, Caressa Henry.

CONVICTED: Clincy David The prosecution argued that David is known to the child’s family. It was alleged that when the victim turned 13-years-old, he began engaging in the illegal acts when he visited the home where she lived.

The child subsequently confided in her relatives, and the matter was reported to the police.

David was later arrested and charged.

guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

VAT removed from cement

SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has announced that the Value Added Tax (VAT) has been removed from cement with effect from April 29, 2022.

A release from the Ministry of Finance noted that government had previously announced in Budget 2020, the removal of VAT on building and construction materials, on which VAT was imposed after 2014. At

the time that this measure was implemented, cement was not impacted because cement had previously attracted VAT prior to 2015.

The government’s removal of VAT on cement reflects recognition of the importance of cement as a key input for the construction of residential dwellings as well as commercial buildings, and is in line with government’s vision for providing relief to citizens as well as to support the housing drive.

This measure is expected to provide substantial support to the local economy.

Government had previously also removed VAT from water, electricity, basic food items and household necessities.

“Government’s expectation is that the removal of VAT from cement will be passed on to final consumers through appropriate adjustments in the final price charged,” the release said.

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‘Bed and Breakfast’ providers gear up for CPL

By Telesha Ramnarine

THE Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce is currently working with ‘Bed and Breakfast’ pro-

viders, especially those who are not functional and up to standard, to get them on board for the highly anticipated Caribbean Premier League (CPL)

T20 cricket tournament in September.

The very day it was announced that games will be played here in Guyana, including the final, the hotel

rooms were all booked up by night-time for the period of September and October.

“So we realised that we need to get more rooms available for people; what

we’re doing is trying to pull together all of the bed-andbreakfast providers… some people are on the list but are not functional or not up to standard, so we at the ministry are trying to ensure we get them on board,” subject minister Oneidge Walrond told the Guyana Chronicle recently.

She was speaking in an interview on the sidelines of a recent event to mark Fibre Tech Industrial Plastics being the first company to receive the ‘Made in Guyana Mark’ by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards.

According to her, the ministry is currently inspecting Bed-and-Breakfast facilities to bring them on board with being able to provide accommodation; but not just any accommodation – accommodations that are suitable and that would meet the expectations of visitors.

“So at the moment, we are working on compiling that list, getting everyone on board, getting everyone trained and ready,” Minister Walrond shared.

The ministry is also working on developing new and existing tour packages to cater for a one-day, weekend, or even one-week tour for visitors, which of course will be also be available to locals.

So far, the ministry, along with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and GNBS, has conducted the first of two Bed-andBreakfast awareness sessions with B&B Owners, Start-up Innkeepers and Prospective B&B Providers.

These sessions focused on the National Bed & Breakfast Standards (GYS 514:2016), led by the GNBS as well as an introduction to the official Airbnb platform, led by the GTA. SUPPORT The ministry has assured that the authorities will continue to provide the necessary support to persons interested in providing accommodation services during the CPL Cricket Carnival Season (September 16 - October 2).

The ministry has since put out an Expressions of Interest for Bed and Breakfast packages for the CPL. An ad in the daily newspapers said that the ministry is encouraging existing as

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond well as potentially new Bedand-Breakfast providers throughout the country to express interest in developing homestay packages for the CPL matches.

Meanwhile, the announcement that Guyana will host the CPL finals for the next three years created quite a buzz in the country, regionally, and on social media. This is the first time that the Hero CPL finals will be held in Guyana.

“Cricket is much more than a game for us in Guyana; it is a passion, part of our culture and a unifying force.

As we celebrate ‘One Guyana,’ the hosting of the CPL finals will be an energising force,” President Irfaan Ali had said. “We are building a product that will be spectator-focused, integrated with our regional partners for a global market.

Cricket Carnival is a fusion of entertainment and celebration that will be mind-blowing and unbelievably different from any other global cricketing event.

“We welcome all to the greatest celebration of music, pageantry, Caribbean vibes with a South American touch and of course, cricket played loudest,” he added.

This season, Guyana will host seven group games, three knockout matches and the Hero CPL final which will take place on Friday, September 30, at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The Hero CPL final will be the climax of festivities surrounding these games taking place in Guyana.

The Government of Guyana in collaboration with the local private sector, will also stage two weeks of events which will form a Cricket Carnival. This carnival will celebrate the best that Guyana has to offer, showcasing the music, food and culture of this vibrant and fascinating country.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

Norwegian investors exploring local opportunities in O&G

By Shamar Meusa

THE local oiland-gas sector has caught the attention of several investors from the Kingdom of Norw a y w h o a re i n Guyana to explore various opportunities for investment.

Those investors are from 21 companies which form the Norwegian Energy Partners (Norwep), an organisation founded by the Norwegian Government and the Norwegian Energy Sector.

The group made its way to Guyana following a visit to Suriname, and was facilitated here by Norwep Adviser and President of the Guyana Oil and Gas E n e rg y C h a m b e r (GOGEC) Manniram Prashad.

Prashad told the Guyana Chronicle that Norway is one of the leading countries in oil and gas, and a number of the companies based there are looking to expand their operations in the Guyana and Suriname markets.

Prashad, who welcomed the investors with a reception at the Palm Court, said that the delegation was able to meet with the Minister of Natural Resources,

Norwep Adviser and President of the Guyana Oil & Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) Manniram Prashad (left), and Director of Norwep Hakon Skretting

Vickram Bharrat, and even hold discussions with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Repsol Guyana, and SBM Offshore among other local agencies.

He related that the response from the Government of Guyana and other energy partners has been good, and is a clear indication that there is a bright future for Norwep in Guyana.

Director of Norwep in the Americas (excluding Brazil), Hakon Skretting said that the “fact-finding” mission to Guyana was fruitful.

Skretting told this newspaper that he’d visited Guyana once before some three

years ago, and that the country has developed quite a lot since then.

He noted that it was quite interesting to meet with a number of the agencies and ministries in Guyana, but when asked about Norwep’s interest in Guyana and what sectors they are interested in investing in, he replied: “We are interested in everything that has to do with oil and gas; absolutely everything!”

Wi t h o u t g o i n g into too much details, Skretting said that the various companies within Norwep have vast expertise in the oil-andgas industry, glob-

ally, and will bring innovative technologies and more to the sector here.

Representatives of Norwep are expected to meet with Tullow Oil and ExxonMobil Guyana before heading back to Norway.

Development in Guyana’s oil-andgas sector is being driven by the operations of ExxonMobil, which has four sanctioned projects offshore Guyana.

Of those projects, the Liza Phase One is producing approximately 130,000 barrels per day, using the Liza Destiny floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, while the Liza Phase Two, which started

production in February of this year, is steadily ramping up to its capacity of 220,000 barrels per day, using the Liza Unity FPSO vessel.

The third project, the Payara, is expected to produce 220,000 barrels per day; construction on its production vessel, the Prosperity FPSO, is running approximately five months ahead of schedule, with start-up likely before the end of 2023.

The fourth project, the Yellowtail, is expected to produce 250,000 barrels per day when the One Guyana FPSO comes on stream in 2025.

HUGE BENEFITS “These projects will bring huge benefits to Guyana,” ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge said recently during a brief interview.

Reports are that returns from the sector are expected to catapult Guyana to the ranks of wealthiest countries in the Western Hemisphere, thereby increasing the government’s fiscal space to invest in initiatives geared at expanding the economy, and improving the overall welfare of citizens.

“Guyana is now poised to be one of the wealthiest countries in the hemisphere; we intend to employ the gains from exploiting these deposits into initiatives geared at expanding the econo m y, i m p r o v i n g competitiveness, giving people the best social services, increasing productivity, enhancing food production, and building new sectors,” President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had said in his keynote address during a virtual faculty workshop on the microeconomics of competitiveness hosted by the Harvard Business School.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

Guyanese must absorb leadership roles in O&G — Foreign Secretary says, tells persons in the diaspora that skills are needed

FOREIGN Secretary Robert Persaud has urged Guyanese in the diaspora to take advantage of the opportunities available in the local oil-and-gas sector.

Persaud made this call during his address at an oil-and-gas seminar here at the Herdmanston Lodge on Thursday.

The Foreign Secretary, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI), spoke of the need for local participation in order to maximise the benefits of these new and traditional sectors.

“These Guyanese that possess: 1: Skills; skills that are badly needed in Guyana;

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud addressing persons at an oil-and-gas seminar here on Thursday

2: Capital; 3: A lot of experience; 4: And very importantly, the networking in terms of their connection; in terms of their ability

to engage multinational large companies that have reach in many parts of the world.

“Persons who have

stood here; who have lived here, who have worked hard to make Guyana and take it to where it is today, but also, we see the diaspora being able to bring additional value

aimed at creating linkages between government and local operators in the sector.

On this note, the Foreign Secretary said: “We don’t only want Guyanese to be the cleaners or the handymen or the menial labourers in this regard and say, ‘Hey, that is local content!’

These are Guyanese we are employing; we want Guyanese to be in leadership positions as much as we also want them to be owners and operators of services or companies.”

During the seminar, the activity featured presentations from the Director of the Local Content Secretariat Martin Pertab, and Chief Labour Officer

benefit optimally.

The Local Content Act that came into effect in December 2021, and the new law earmarks 40 sectors or services, and stipulates a minimum percentage of the total value of expenditure on those services that oil companies and their sub-contractors must procure from Guyanese suppliers.

Already, Guyanese businesses have benefitted immensely from the operations of ExxonMobil, with companies absorbing more than US$600 million (roughly G$125 billion) in expenditures from the oil giant between 2015 and now.

This relates to em-

A section of the gathering at Thursday’s oil-and-gas seminar (DPI photos)

in some areas to those persons’ businesses, individuals and their activities here in Guyana, so it is more complementary. So, while we talk about the diaspora as an integral part of the local- content approach, it’s not to the disadvantage of persons, or to take away opportunities,” Foreign Secretary Persaud said.

The seminar was

Daneshwar Deonarine, and several entrepreneurs operating in the sector.

Pertab gave an overview of some of the strides that have been made since the passage of the Local Content Legislation Bill, which includes several mechanisms to enable the secretariat to engage stakeholders so as to ensure that Guyanese

ployment, investment and training opportunities, procurement guidelines, and annual local content plan, among other areas of interest.

According to the Chief Labour Officer, a skills analysis will soon be conducted for the oil-and-gas sector, and the value chain connected to that industry.

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guyana CHRONICLE saturday, april 30, 2022

Haitians in Barbados with fake identities not welcomed in Guyana –– Minister Benn

HAITIANS who have been stranded in Barbados since February were found to have fake identities and government will not be allowing them entry into Guyana.

This is according to Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, who was at the time responding to questions from reporters on the sidelines of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

with SEACOP V on cooperation against illicit maritime trade, on Friday.

“Their bona fides (documents) are fake and that simply means that they have not applied based on the information we have seen so far, and we have not been approached by any person who has been representing them directly,” he said.

He explained that the documents in the Hai-

tians’ possession are identification cards for Brazil, which are illegal, “and there are also other documents which we have seen which are fake and we are working with the Barbadian authorities in relation to other aspects of this activity which have been ongoing for a while.”

Minister Benn said the documents in his possession are sufficient for the position he has taken.

According to immigration data provided to the Guyana Chronicle, for the

period 2015 to June 17, 2021, there has been an unusually large influx of Haitians who have entered Guyana but failed to leave, at least through the requisite legal channels.

The statistics highlight that of the 42,100 arrivals of Haitians for the stated period, some 38,187 of them cannot be accounted for. Only 3,913 have been registered to have legally departed the shores of Guyana.

The data shows that from 2015 to 2020, there was a steep and continuous

annual increase of Haitians arriving in the country.

In 2015, there were some 770 arrivals, while 2016 saw 772, which quickly escalated to 3,515 in 2017, then to 6,165 in 2018 and 20,261 in 2019.

The year 2020 saw 9,239 entries and as of June 17, 2021, there have been some 1,378.

However, the departure data for the stated period when compared with the arrival data is staggering.

In 2015, only 136 of the Haitians departed, while in 2016 some 451

departed. In 2017, there were some 291 departures; 2018 saw 456 and 2019, 1,697. In 2020, there were some 717 departures and as of June 17, 2021, there were some 165.

On February 28, 2021, the Brazilian Federal Police arrested 26 Haitians and one Cuban, who entered Bom Fim illegally via Guyana’s borders.

Government has imposed visa restrictions on Haitians to prevent Guyana being used as a transshipment point for human smuggling.

Preliminary analysis confirms cyanide was in Teixeira’s vehicle –– stomach contents sent overseas to see if it was ingested

PRELIMINARY analysis contents were removed from was staying in on the sixth of the whitish hard sub- both bodies and handed over floor was empty. stance found in the back to investigators.

The employee then seat of the vehicle where It is believed that both went just after midnight 25-year-old Paishnarine men took their lives. to Teixeira’s black Vezel “Ritchie” Hansraj and The police in a statement motorcar (PAC 2607) in 34-year-old Justin Teixei- reported that investigators the parking lot where he ra were found dead in the were reviewing CCTV foot- observed Teixeira sitting parking lot of the Marriott age in an effort to determine in the driver’s seat and all Hotel last Saturday, has confirmed the presence of cyanide.

“Analyses of stomach contents will be concluded at laboratories overseas to confirm whether in fact this substance containing cyanide was indeed ingested,” the Ministry of Home Affairs noted in a press statement on Friday.

According to Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, who was speaking to reporters on Friday, reagents needed for testing at the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory were not available to do the necessary tests, since it was not within the range of examinations Justin Teixeira and Richie Hansraj in happier times being done at the lab.

He noted that within a the circumstances leading to the windows of the vehicle week’s time all the neces- the death of the young men. were halfway down. sary information pertaining According to the poThe employee said he to the test will be received. lice, investigators were opened the front passenger The autopsies conducted told by a 28-year-old em- door and discovered Hanon the bodies were incon- ployee of the Marriott sraj sitting in a crunch-like clusive and relatives were Hotel that he received a position. also instructed not to cre- telephone call from TeixBoth Teixeira and Hanmate the bodies, as there eira’s 60-year-old mother, sraj appeared to be motionmay be need to have them around 23:30 hours, that less. exhumed. her son was having a seiThe employee immediThe autopsies were per- zure. The mother asked ately called 911 and the amformed by government pa- if someone could check bulance with EMT arrived; thologist Dr Nehaul Singh on him. both men were pronounced on Monday at the Memorial The hotel employee said dead at the scene.

Gardens Funeral Home and he immediately dispatched Police confirmed that the bodies were handed over another employee to check no marks of violence were to the relatives for burial. on Teixeira who was a guest seen on the exposed parts of Police Headquarters, on at the hotel, and it was dis- the bodies. The bodies were Monday, noted that stomach covered that the room he escorted to the Memorial

Garden Funeral Home.

Teixeira was a flight attendant and lived at Republic Park, East Bank De-

merara. Hansraj was known for his singing and was expected to be engaged next month.

He resided at Hague, West Coast Demerara and was the only son of his parents.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022 FROM PAGE 33

Natural Resources Ministry ... said that the first step is to replace the fence then fix the outfield, fix the pavilions and move aggressively to recruit new players.

The YWCC produced many outstanding players during its 20 years of existence with the latest being West Indies batting star, Shimron Hetmyer.

Other players who represented Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies at different levels are Gajanand Singh who now plays for the USA, Richard Ramdeen, former National captain Damodar Daesrat, Seon Hetmyer, Paul Wintz, Kwesi Maltay, Balram Samaroo, Alex Algoo, Kevin Ramdeen, Loaknauth Ramsuchit, Kassim Khan, Linden Austin, Sanjay Khan, Shazad Khan, Ishwar Singh, Aaron Beharry, Anil Beharry, Suresh Dhanai, Farouk Hussain and Daryl Narine among many others.

The YWCC won the first and only Shapoorji Palonji National T20 competition defeating Blairmont CC and Neal & Massy National Forty Overs Competition, defeating the powerful Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) in the final at the Guyana National Stadium, among other championship titles.

The club won the GCB Clubof-the-Year title for two consecutive years.

The current executive is seeking help in cash and kind to help restore the venue.

Contact can be made with Imran Saccoor, Aubrey David on 646-0294, Suresh Dhanai on 685-3101 or any executive member of the club.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

Pollard weighing T20 Blast offers following retirement

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Kieron Pollard is weighing up offers to play in the T20 Blast following his retirement from international cricket.

Pollard, who turns 35 next month, stepped back from his position as West Indies limited-overs captain last week after two-and-a-half years in the role but will continue to play domestic T20 cricket around the world.

He was the first pick in the men's Hundred draft earlier this month and will now be available to play for London

Spirit for the majority of the tournament and will consider returning to county cricket for the first time since 2011, a move which would see him spend around three months in England this summer.

ESPNcricinfo understands that at least two counties have enquired about Pollard's availability for the Blast, which runs from May 25 - four days after his IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, play their final game in this year's IPL - until July 16.

Surrey appear to be the frontrunners at this stage, in

a move which would reunite Pollard with his close friend and long-term team-mate Sunil Narine, who has already signed for the duration of Blast as an overseas player.

Surrey had planned to use Sean Abbott as their second overseas player after his stint was cut short due to injury last year, but his involvement in Australia and Australia A squads for their tour of Sri Lanka means he will be unavailable for the majority of the group stages and it is expected that the club will look for a replacement.

Pollard previously spent two seasons with Somerset in 2010 and 2011 where he was hugely successful, averaging 34.58 with the bat at a strike rate of 169.94 and taking 41 wickets in 28 appearances.

It is understood that Somerset are in the market for another overseas signing for the Blast - likely to be a batter or a batting all-rounder - despite the fact that Marchant de Lange and Peter Siddle are both under contract for the tournament, but the club have privately played down the prospect of Pollard returning.

Kieron Pollard could be in line for a three-month stint in England this summer (Ashley Allen - CPL T20 / Getty)

Northamptonshire are one of the few other counties with a vacant overseas spot for the Blast and had agreed a deal with Pollard in 2020 before the tournament was postponed due to the pandemic.

However, it is understood that they have already agreed terms with another

overseas batter whose signing will be announced in the coming weeks, with Chris Lynn's name discussed at length. Northants have previously confirmed the signing of James Neesham, the New Zealand all-rounder, as their other Blast overseas player.

Team Mohamed's to fund CARIFTA athletes for one year TEAM Mohamed's, through its principal, Azruddin Mohamed, has invested significantly in the development of the athletes who recently represented Guyana at the CARIFTA Track and Field Championships in Jamaica.

The contingent returned with seven medals, two of which were gold, and, to hopefully ensure they continue to represent the nation proudly, Mohamed will

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sponsor the athletes for one year.

Mohamed made the disclosure as he treated the athletes at his home yesterday afternoon.

The sponsorship will cover their footwear, supplements and transportation costs to attend training.

"These athletes would have done a great service to Guyana by producing some remarkable performances at these Games. I saw it import10:10 hrs Anibale Fly 10:50 hrs Epatante 11:25 hrs Popong 12:00 hrs Vauban 12:30 hrs Camprond 13:05 hrs Ballybay 13:35 hrs Barbados American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Road To Success Race 2 Happy farm Race 3 Even Thunder Race 4 Summer To Remember Race 5 True Empress Race 6 Date Time Race 7 Southern District Race 8 Umbria Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Born To Be Good Race 2 Dance For Gold Race 3 Antigone Race 4 Swirling Dancer Race 5 Load Abroad Race 6 Swoop To Finish Race 7 Twelfth Moon Race 8 Diabolic South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:05 hrs Sweet Future 08:40 hrs Real Gone Kid 09:15 hrs Puerto Manzano 09:50 hrs Rain In Holland 10:28 hrs Nebraas 11:03 hrs Forgotten Times

ant that in order for them to continue performing at these levels, an investment is made now."

"Their only focus should be on attending school, training hard and representing Guyana and that is what we hope to do by offsetting these expenses," Mohamed elaborated.

Additionally, Mohamed gifted Attoya Harvey, who won three medals, a token made out of pure gold.

Athletics Guyana president, Aubrey Hutson, informed the athletes that the support is an investment in their future and they should remain humble and focused.

He asked them to begin to

work even harder to reap the desired success.

Fourteen athletes represented Guyana at the Games held over the Easter weekend.

Harvey lead the charge with gold (U-17 1500m), silver (U-20 3000m), and bronze (U-17 800m).

Other medallists at the three-day event were An-

isha Gibbons, who won gold in the Under-20 Javelin, adding to her gold at the U-17 level two years ago; Narissa McPherson took silver in the Under-17 400m; Javon Roberts also claimed a silver in the Under-17 1500m and Adriel Austin a bronze in the Under-20 800m.

Natural Resources Ministry contributes to Young Warriors restoration project THE Ministry of Natural Resources has rushed to the aid of the Young Warriors Cricket Club of Cumberland, East Canje, Berbice as they seek to restore the club and its venue to its former glory.

Letters of requests and phone calls were made to several businesses, private individuals and Government ministries.

Imran Saccoor, president of YWCC reached out to Hon. Minister Vickram Bharrat, Ministry of Natural Resources, who readily agreed, and on a recent visit to Berbice, presented a cheque of $250 000 to members of the club.

Minister Bharrat, himself a Berbician, said that he is elated to be part of the restoration of the ground knowing that the club has produced so many outstanding cricketers, including Shimron Hetmyer, over the years.

He is happy to know that

Hon. Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat right, hands over the cheque to Aubrey David, vice-president of YWCC in the presence of REO Region 6, Narindra Persaud, Suresh Dhanai and a representative of the ministry

the Executive is making an effort to fix the issues and pledged his continued support while calling on former players to contribute.

Saccoor in reply, thanked the minister while he laid out the plans and projects to be undertaken.

The first phase will be

the fence which is estimated to cost about $750 000, followed by the outfield and then the pavilions, he added.

He promised that all funds will be accounted for and the club is planning fundraisers to help cover the cost of the restoration.

Six years ago the ven-

ue was in picture-perfect condition. Unfortunately, since then, it has deteriorated rapidly.

Saccoor, continues to appeal to the GoG, corporate Guyana and private individuals for assistance. He TURN TO PAGE 32

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

Georgetown Cricket Association to host female youth camp

THE Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) will be hosting a female Youth Cricket Camp during the month of May. According to a release from the association, “this camp which is for females between the ages of 12 and 18 years will focus on identifying and developing the talent of those who have the desire to learn and the passion to play representative cricket at the highest level”.

The camp is open to females who attend schools or re-

The GCA is looking to nurture young talent

side in the geographic location of the city of Georgetown or are registered with cricket clubs that are affiliated with the GCA. Prospective females are required to attend an orientation session along with their parents/guardians on May 4 at the Malteenoes Sports Club, Thomas Lands from 16:00hrs.

For any additional information or queries, persons can contact the Chairperson of GCA Competition’s Committee, Shaun Massiah, on 6167240.

GFF announces plans for Little impact from Holder football return on May 15 as Super Giants register 20-run win

GFF’s nine Member Associations will all be in action from May 15

TO USHER in the return of club football in Guyana, the local custodians of the ‘beautiful game’ announced their plans to have their respective Member Associations kick off a series of leagues on May 15.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) affiliated associations, along with the GFF Women's Development League (May 12), The Blue Water U15 Girls Developmental League and NAMILCO U17 Boys League (May 21) are expected to play their part in preparation for the 2022/2023 in September.

Wayne Forde, president of the GFF, said their Competition Team has been working closely with the Regional Association to support the planning and preparation for a Senior Male League.

He added that at the moment there are more than 115 clubs registered, with the Rupununi Football Association leading with 26 clubs and the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) coming in second with 16 clubs.

In alignment with the GFF Club Charter programme, all clubs across the GFF’s nine Regional Associations are being deemed ‘Category Three Clubs’, except the 10 Elite League Clubs.

“Once these Regional Association Clubs complete the registration process, they receive four size-5 balls, 25 cones and 12 bibs. I am pleased to announce that more than 90% of the participating clubs have completed their

registration,” Forde said.

According to Forde, the GFF’s “aim is to create history by having all 9 Regional Association Leagues kick off simultaneously on May 15. This will give more than 2 500 young men an opportunity to showcase the talent they were blessed with and to present themselves to the Golden Jaguars Scouting Team.”

He added, “In August we will be playing the GFF Champions Cup, where the respective Regional Association League Champions and the first runners-up will be competing in a straight knockout tournament to be crowned the National Champions.”

Meanwhile, the GFF president assured that this season will be of no consequence to the promotion or relegation of clubs and is mainly to aid the preparation and capacity-building efforts that his Federation is undertaking at the Regional Association for the smooth rollout of the 2023 Season.

The GFF Elite League, which has not been played since 2019, will make a return, as well as a more structured Regional Association Male and Female competition programme.

In this short season, Forde revealed, the Elite League Clubs will compete within their original Regional Associations, where he believes everyone will enjoy the much-needed game time.

West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder reacts after being dismissed cheaply yesterday (Photo courtesy IPL)

(CMC) – Leading West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder had little impact with the bat and virtually none with the ball, but his Lucknow Super Giants still came away with a 20-run win over Punjab Kings here yesterday.

Sent in at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Super Giants mustered only 153 for eight off their 20 overs. Quinton de Kock top-scored with 46 off 37 deliveries and Deepak Hooda chipped in with 34 from 28 balls.

Holder lashed a single six in scoring 11, after entering in the 15th over. South African seamer Kagiso Rabada was outstanding, claiming four for 38 from his four overs.

In reply, Kings were limited to 133 for eight from their 20 overs, with Englishman Jonny Bairstow (32), opener Mayank Agarwal (25) and Rishi Dhawan (21 not out) all getting starts but failing to carry on.

Left-arm seamer Mohsin Khan did the damage with three for 24 while Krunal Pandya (2-11) and Dushmantha Chameera (2-17) produced stingy spells to help cripple the run chase.

With the win, Super Giants moved into third place on 12 points, alongside Rajasthan Royals who are second by virtue of a super run rate, with Gujarat Lions top on 14 points.

The defeat for Kings left them seventh on eight points.

Captain KL Rahul fell cheaply for six with 13 on the board in the third over but de Kock and Hooda combined in an 85-run, second-wicket stand to turn the Super Giants’ innings around.

Once they were separated, however, the innings went into decline as wickets fell steadily, with Holder seventh out in the 18th over, holing out to deep cover off leg-spinner Rahul Chahar (2-30).

What should have been a straightforward run chase quickly became messy once a 35-run opening stand between Agarwal and Shikhar Dhawan (5) was broken.

Runs proved hard to come by and not even a 30-run, fourth-wicket stand between Bairstow and fellow countryman Liam Livingstone (18) could have revived the innings.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 30, 2022

High Rollers, Amazings, DC ballers through to quarter-finals …Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’

HIGH Rollers, Amazings, DC Ballers, and Whap-Whap secured their respective quarter-final berths when the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden edition continued on Thursday at the Silver City hard-court.

High Rollers had the better of Hill Side Ballers 2-0 in the feature affair of the evening.

Jonah Simon and Robin Adams made their presence felt in the 12th and 26th minutes respectively.

Meanwhile, Amazings brushed aside Universal Ballers 4-1. George Stephen bagged

a double in the seventh and 12th minutes, while Tyrese Lewis and Brentley Allicock each scored in the 14th and 22nd minute respectively.

For the losers, Omari Gordon found the back of the net in the 19th minute. Similarly, DC Ballers downed Spikeland 3-0. Nicholas Gentle, David Fiedtkou, and Allan Halley scored in the eighth, 16th, and 21st minutes respectively.

On the other hand, What-Whap edged Back Street Ballers 6-5. Malcolm Miggins recorded the fastest goal in the history of

Action between High Rollers (yellow), and Hill Side Ballers at the Silver City hardcourt in the Linden edition of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’

the tournament for the victors, scoring in 10 seconds, alongside a 20th-minute conversion.

Also adding goals in the win were Antwoine Gill in the eighth and 12th minutes and Jeshawn Moore in the 10th and 22nd minutes.

For the losers, Seon Barrat netted in the fifth minute while Guinness Goals (GG) (a

goal scored in the final three minutes count as two) were registered by Robin Wren and Isaiah Adams in the 28th and 29th minutes respectively.

The quarterfinals will be conducted at the same venue on Tuesday.

Magnum Independence Cup Futsal GFF accepting orders for FIFA 2022 World Cup tournament continues tonight

FOLLOWING two exciting nights of thrilling action, highlighted by several unexpected results, the 4th edition of the Magnum Independence Cup resumes this evening at the National Park tarmac.

In the opening match, Showstoppers will lock horns with Festival City from 19:00hrs, while Sophia will oppose Melanie from 19:30hrs.

In the third fixture, Tiger Bay will battle with Ansa McAl AllStars at 20:00hrs, with Leopold Street matching skills with Belfield Warriors from 20:30hrs.

The fifth match will then pit North East La Penitence against Stabroek Ballers at 21:00hrs,

Battle in the Magnum Independence Cup will continue tonight at the National Park

while Back Circle will engage Mocha at 21:30hrs. In the final two matches, Albouystown will oppose Road Warriors at 22:00hrs, and Sparta Boss will face East Front Road at 22:30hrs.

Tournament coordinator,

Edison Jefford, opined that the competitive nature of the tournament has been clearly illustrated following several unexpected results, and this bodes well for the latter stages of the tournament.

He further stated that this is

indicative of the tournament’s overall appeal and fandom, as several teams have prepared diligently in their bid to claim the prestigious title.

The winners of the event will pocket $700 000, and the championship trophy, with the runners-up walking away with $400 000 and the corresponding accolade. On the other hand, the third- and fourthplace finishers will pocket $200 000 and $100 000 respectively.

The other sponsors of the event are MVP Sport, Nigel Hind Financial Services, Andrews Supermarket, Bold Expressions Barbershop, Fireside Grill ‘N’ Chill, Star Party Rentals, and Lucozade.

(PRESS Release) - The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is pleased to announce that it is accepting orders for tickets for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The event takes place between November 21 and December 18.

All interested parties should write to the General Secretary, Guyana Football Federation, 17 Dadanawa Street, Secton ‘K’ Campbellville, Georgetown to register details of their requests by the close of business on Friday, May 6.

Due to FIFA deadlines, late applications will not be accepted.

Please note, all orders will be subject to availability.

The GFF has been granted the rights for the resale of tickets as a non-participating FIFA member association, but the Federation must purchase tickets en bloc in line with FIFA timelines. Tickets are split into the following categories: https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/qatar2022/news/ticket-categories-fwc22 The GFF will also announce details of media accreditation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in due course, once confirmed by FIFA. All media accreditations will be managed via the official FIFA event media hub.

GFF announces plans for football return on May 15

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GFF’s nine Member Associations will all be in action from May 15

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Azruddin Mohamed, along with the CARIFTA athletes and management who represented Guyana in Jamaica and won seven medals

Team Mohamed's to fund CARIFTA athletes for one year

West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder reacts after being dismissed cheaply yesterday (Photo courtesy IPL)

Azruddin Mohamed presented Attoya Harvey with a special token for her performances

Little impact from Holder as Super Giants register 34 20-run win

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