Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_30_10_2021

SATURDAY 30th October, 2021

' No.106530

New curfew set at midnight to 04:00 hrs

Repositioning to become a–– Guyanaglobal powerhouse set for COP26 with achievable and realistic targets, says President Ali PAGE

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Sod turned for $150M 07 milk plant at Onverwagt PAGE

From left: GO-Invest’s Peter Ramsaroop; Canadian Ambassador to Guyana, Mark Berman; Amaya Milk’s General Manager, Omkaar Sharma; Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha and Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, turning the sod at the Onverwagt site (Ministry of Agriculture photo)

Public servants 03 can look forward to salary increases PAGE

Draft electoral reform legislation to be 03 released next week PAGE

Double-murder accused 10 recaptured PAGE

Captured: Kapildeo Gangadin

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

President Ali recommits to meeting Harmon –– says he will do whatever the Constitution requires

By Rehana Ahamad

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali says he is not opposed

to meeting with Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon, as is constitutionally required, in relation to a number of

matters, including the substantive appointments of several constitutional officers such as the Chancellor

of the Judiciary, the Chief Justice, and the Commissioner of Police.

At a virtual press confer-

ence on Friday, Dr. Ali told reporters that he is “fully committed to abiding by every aspect of the Constitution”, and that there are no preconditions to fulfilling his mandate of engaging the Opposition Leader.

The Head of State did not specify if and when he intends to meet Harmon.

Dr. Ali did, however, point to the fact that the main parliamentary opposition, the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) does not view the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government as legitimate.

Leader of the Opposition Joseph Harmon “This is outside of that mandate in relation to my constitutional role, where you have someone who is continuously saying that this government is illegitimate, so he has a moral problem,” Dr. Ali said.

He went further to question Harmon’s rationale for engaging a government that is, to his mind, illegitimate.

“That’s his moral problem; and that has exposed his duplicity,” President Ali argued.

The Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces had previously said that he is ready to consult with the Opposition Leader, but insisted that Harmon must first recognise who he is meeting.

President Ali had previ-

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (Office of the President photo) ously said that the requirement for Harmon to acknowledge him as the elected Head of State is not a condition, but a fact. “If I want to talk to this gentleman, and I don’t recognise him as someone in the media, then, who am I talking to, if I want to talk to him as a media personnel,” Dr. Ali noted in a previous example.

For context, as mandated

by Article 127 of the Constitution of Guyana, the Chancellor of the Judiciary and the Chief Justice can only be confirmed by the President, acting after obtaining the agreement of the elected Leader of the Opposition.

Article 124 of the Constitution explicitly states that the Chancellor shall be the President of the Court of Appeal. The Chief Justice, on the other hand, is the President and most senior judge of the High Court.

The position of Chancellor is one of utmost importance. Pursuant to Article 95 of the Constitution, during any period when the office of the President is vacant, the office shall be assumed by the Prime Minister, or if there is no Prime Minister, a minister as elected by Cabinet may assume the position. However, when there is no See page 3

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Public servants can look forward to salary increases

PUBLIC servants throughout the length and breadth of Guyana can still expect salary increases for 2021. This reassurance was given by President Dr. Irfaan Ali during a virtual press conference on Friday.

“I said earlier this year that we are committed to increases for the public servants, and that commitment will be fulfilled before the end of the year,” the Head of State said in response to media queries on the subject.

Asked specifically about meeting with the Guyana Public Service Union(GPSU), President Ali said said that such engagements are to be dealt with at the level of the Ministry of Finance, as well as the Ministry of Public Service.

Following criticisms from the main parliamentary opposition earlier in the year, President Ali had said, definitively, that before the end of the year, public servants will benefit from salary increases

that would be retroactive.

He told a virtual press conference in August that his government’s plans for the development of public servants go far beyond salary increases. “I am not only looking at salary increases; we are also looking at the mechanisms that would allow every public servant to own their own home,” Dr. Ali had said.

He’d noted then that public servants have also been benefitting from several cash grants being disbursed by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government. Since the Irfaan Ali-led government assumed office in August 2020, exactly one year ago, thousands of Guyanese have been able to capitalise on the $25,000 COVID-19 cash grant, which has been given to every household in the country; there is also the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant which saw each child within the public and private school systems receiving $19,000.

Additionally, due to the unprecedented May/June 2021 floods, the government also announced some $7.8 billion worth of monetary aid for various categories of persons who have been affected.

The distribution of the various cash grants is continuing, but, in the meantime, President Ali said that efforts are still being made to ensure the well-being of not only public sector workers, but their families as well.

“We want to empower public servants so that their children, too, can benefit from the scholarship programmes… The public servants themselves are benefitting, and we are happy about this,” President Ali said previously, as he pointed to the government’s 20,000 Online scholarship programme, which has seen thousands of Guyanese being accepted into a number of internationally-recognised universities at the expense of the government.

President Ali has promised that the salary increases would be retroactive

Draft electoral reform legislation to be released next week

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has progressed one step closer towards achieving much-needed electoral reform for Guyana.

At a virtual press conference on Friday, the Head of State announced that the draft electoral reform legislation has been crafted, and should be released to stakeholders by next week.

“Only yesterday [Thursday], I urged the Attorney-General, and what we’re working on is to have this draft legislation circulated sometime next week among all stakeholders,” President Ali said.

He told reporters that various stakeholders would be given a period of six weeks to review the document and

provide feedback, so that the electoral reform efforts could be executed “expeditiously”.

Electoral reform has been promised by consecutive governments for years, however, the troubling events of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections highlighted the urgency with which Guyana’s elections laws need to be revised and

President Ali recommits ...

From page 2

Cabinet, the Chancellor will act in the role.

In March 2018, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Justice Roxane George were sworn in to perform the functions of acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, and acting Chief Justice, respectively.

No Chancellor or Chief Justice has been confirmed in the positions since 2001; Justice Cummings-Edwards took up the mantle following the retirement of Justice Carl Singh, while Justice George was elevated to the post following the retirement of the late Justice Ian Chang, SC. The long-overdue meeting between Harmon

and President Ali has also stalled the confirmation of Nigel Hoppie as the Commissioner of Police.

Meanwhile, asked about the pending appointments of members of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), President Ali said that this, in addition to the installation of several State boards, will be dealt with as priority, once he returns from the 26th United Nations’ climate change conference being hosted in Glasgow, Scotland.

The appointment of several other officers is also dependent on the operations of the JSC. The JSC, by legal definition, is the guardian of

Guyana’s judicial autonomy. The Commission is responsible for making recommendations for judicial appointments, and removing or exercising disciplinary control over persons holding or acting in judicial offices.

The Chancellor and the Chief Justice are ex-officio members of the JSC, which also includes the Chairman of the Guyana Public Service Union, (GPSU), as well as a member appointed

by Parliament, and another by the President.

The Commission, according to the law, is not to be subject to the direction or control of any other person or authority.

reformed.

The destabilising period saw an attempt to tamper with the votes cast in favour of the then A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, which also played a part in employing what was described as a number of “delay tactics”.

This resulted in a fivemonth impasse, which was characterised by violence,

protests, and the threat of international sanctions. It also saw the execution of a highly dramatic recount process.

By the end of the elections debacle, Guyana had experienced what was possibly the world’s longest elections process. In the end, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) was declared the winning party, having received 233,336 votes, while the APNU+AFC Coalition got 217,920. President Ali

was later sworn in on August 2.

It was said that the months between March 2 and August 2, 2020 did not fail to test the patience and resilience of thousands of Guyanese voters who were also battling the damaging effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which was first detected here in Guyana in March, and was almost immediately declared a pandemic.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Repositioning to become a global powerhouse –– Guyana set for COP26 with achievable and realistic targets, says President Ali

By Rehana Ahamad WHEN the United Nations’ Climate Conference, COP26 gets underway on Sunday in Glasgow, Scotland, Guyana will be wellarmed with a number of realistic and achievable targets, geared at repositioning the country to become a global powerhouse and net carbon sink.

“We have to communicate targets that are achievable and realistic, and that is what we’ll be doing. And these targets and ambitions will be in keeping with our energy strategy and programming,” President Dr. Irfaan Ali told a virtual news conference on Friday.

As part of his exten-

sive bilateral engagements over the past few months, President Ali has been advocating for COP26 participants, particularly countries most vulnerable to climate change, to speak at the high-level forum with one voice. Already, Dr. Ali said that Guyana has received positive commitments from a number of countries and global organisations that will be raising similar issues at COP26. “... and that is why these bilateral engagements were so important,” Dr. Ali posited.

He said too that Guyana, already a net carbon sink, will address issues of accessibility to financing for mitigation and adaptation for Small Island Develop-

Saturday, 30 October 12:30hrs - 14:00hrs

ing States, and will pursue initiatives to strengthen and expand the market for the sale of carbon credits. “... and we intend to renew our call for the implementation of the commitment made to the fulfilment of the 100 billion dollars pledge,” Dr. Ali noted.

He said that Guyana’s representation at COP26 will align perfectly with the national Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), which has since been revised to cater to the burgeoning oil and gas sector, and encompasses the drive for renewable energy.

“It is very important that we outline a realistic and achievable ambition target.

We cannot go and criticise countries that are not sticking to the commitment and then we make targets that cannot be achieved,” President Ali noted.

Previously, under the David Granger-led government, Guyana appeared before the United Nations boldly pledging to achieve 100 per cent renewable energy by 2025. However, the proposal was not accompa-

nied by any plausible project or implementation strategy.

As a result, when Guyana appears at COP26, the Ali-led Government will be forced to admit to the impossibility of the pledge made by the then A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government.

Ahead of the conference which starts on Sunday, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo spearheaded a national stakeholder consultation aimed at updating Guyana’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which basically outlines the country’s response to climate change, and how it intends to achieve the targets set out in the Paris Agreement, as adopted by 196 countries during COP21, hosted in Paris in December 2015.

The updated NDCs, according to Dr. Jagdeo, is an indication that Guyana will be “lowering its ambitions” at a time when most countries are aiming to, realistically, do better.

LACKED CAPACITY The Vice-President said

President Dr. Irfaan Ali that even though the previous pledge was one that “sounded good,” it lacked capacity and failed to include any sensible project which could achieve the brazenly touted results.

It was reminded that under the LCDS, conceptualised by then President Jagdeo in 2009, Guyana proposed a series of achievable initiatives which could have resulted in a number of renewable projects being in operation today. However, projects such as the Amaila Falls Hydropower project, which was set to produce some 165 megawatts of power, were tanked.

With President Ali now at the helm, the project is back on the table as part of a comprehensive energy mix which seeks to utilise hydro, solar and wind as alternative and renewable forms of energy. “[For] five years we had no investment, no structured approach; now we have a programmable, renewable energy platform and portfolio that we are pushing and addressing, so that is what makes it realistic and achievable,” the President asserted.

He noted that at COP26, Guyana will maintain its position as a leader in the fight against climate change, even as it looks to capitalise on a thriving petroleum sector as a means of boosting

critical non-oil sectors such as agriculture and health, in an effort to improve the lives of all Guyanese.

More specifically, Dr. Ali said that Guyana’s participation at the forum will focus on four thematic areas, such as the country’s enhanced commitments on forests and land use, including reducing deforestation and accelerating forest restoration; scaling finance and investments, including private sector finance; sharing action towards sustainable production and consumption; and support for local people and other stakeholders.

Further, President Ai said that Guyana plans to endorse the Glasgow Declaration on Forests and Land Use which speaks to strengthening efforts for forest and ecosystems conservation and accelerated restoration; promote the development of policies and strategies that foster sustainable development, reduce vulnerability, build resilience and enhance resilient rural livelihoods.

This also includes promoting greater investments in food security, creating suitable technology and infrastructure for hinterland communities, and redesigning agricultural policies and programmes which would drive investments and facilitate expansion of critical industries.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

GMSA calls for improved access to hinterland region

By Richard Bhainie

WHILE cognisant of the government’s commitment to infrastructural development, members of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) have issued a call for better infrastructure to access the hinterland region, which will inevitably reduce their cost of production.

The call was made on Friday at a GMSA business luncheon held under the theme, “Plans for Improving Public Infrastructure in Guyana’s Oil and Gas Economy” at the Pegasus Hotel, in downtown Kingston, Georgetown.

GMSA President, Rafeek Khan, in his address highlighted that the cost of transportation to the hinterland and far-reaching areas of Guyana has been a challenge for time immemorial, and the burden of transportation costs must be addressed.

He explained that in some cases, the cost of transportation is as much as, or even more than 50 per cent of the value of raw materials that are delivered to processing facilities. Making his case, Khan highlighted that the cost for a truck-load of logs to be delivered to a mill is $800,000, of which sum $450,000 goes to transportation.

Further, Khan highlighted

that while Guyana is “extremely blessed” with an abundance of natural resources, accessibility to these resources is sometimes limited.

This, he opined, causes small operators to often lose their competitiveness.

“Competitiveness is ultimately the key factor that affects growth of industries,” he explained, noting that in

gion, which is often required for perishable items, is also expensive.

However, the GMSA is not blind to the current developments the country has been undergoing, and lauded the government’s commitment to infrastructure development. Khan noted that the Association “sees the light” and “believes a difference is

GMSA President Rafeek Khan delivering his address at the organisation’s luncheon on Friday addition, the lack of competition due to lack of infrastructure for equal access also contributes to the deterioration of infrastructure that is already in place.

His call for better infrastructure does not cater for roads solely, but includes maritime and aviation as well. He highlighted that flying into the hinterland re-

going to be made”.

“Government’s commitment to infrastructure development across the length and breadth of Guyana is duly recognised by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association; removal of VAT from hinterland travel provided great relief, especially to small businesses and commuters alike,” acknowledged Khan.

He also highlighted the GMSA’s mandate of sustainable development, especially in the wake of climate change, and urged that it is

imperative that new infrastructure is built to last.

CHANGING WEATHER PATTERNS “We are facing changing weather patterns that destroyed bridges and roads. Repairs to damaged infrastructure can be avoided if properly built from the start,” he said.

“Our new-found oil-andgas sector has ushered in economic prosperity, which we anticipate will build capacities sooner rather than later.

We, in the private sector, look forward to supporting the decision makers in their policies and programmes for transformation,” he added.

Responding to the GMSA’s calls, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar elucidated on the wealth of infrastructural development the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Government has embarked on.

He reminded of the party’s 2020 elections Manifesto pledge, which included several transformative infrastructural projects, including a deep-water harbour at the Berbice estuary, the Linden to Lethem Road, the Parika to Rockstone Del Conte Road and link with Bartica, the Guyana-Suriname Bridge, and a new Demerara Harbour Bridge.

Many of these major projects have commenced.

In relation to access to the hinterland region, in December 2020, the Caribbean

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar addressing the GMSA’s business luncheon at the Pegasus Hotel on Friday (Elvin Croker photos) Development Bank (CDB) approved funding for the upgrading of 121 kilometres of road from the town of Linden to Mabura Hill. This is currently at the procurement stage, Minister Indar disclosed.

He noted that the alignment for the Del Conte Road has been established, and will be cleared shortly, while the Schoonord to Parika Road is being finalised, and the alignment of the Bartica to Timehri Road is being developed.

He also referenced the Eccles to Mandela Highway, all of which will open massive swathes of land.

In relation to the maritime sector, Minister Indar referenced the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, which he describes as the “driving force” for the maritime sector. He reported that wrecks are currently

being removed from the Demerara River in preparation for its being dredged to accommodate larger ships.

In the aviation sector, he made reference to the major developments the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has undergone since the PPP/C has resumed office, and in terms of domestic travel, the government has met with aircraft operators to inquire why prices are still high, in spite of the removal of VAT. The minister also highlighted other major infrastructural projects being executed in relation to the energy sector, housing sector, hotel industry, fire hydrants, drainage, and President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s ‘Silica City’, a secondary city slated for the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Act Responsibly ONE of the distressing inhibitors to the provision of equitable distribution of learning/teaching resources nationwide is parents’ and learners’ slow or no return of textbooks loaned to them after the latter have been promoted to a higher grade.

Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, in mulling solutions to this dilemma, recently lamented, “My heart is breaking at this level of poor citizenship. This is the first time in the history of Guyana we gave every single text book that is needed to every single public-school child…. How can we give the same love and service and benefit to this current batch of students if parents selfishly and lawlessly keep those books home? You won’t use it again and if you have younger ones we promise to get (text books) for them when they reach Grade Six.” She pleaded, “Please return the text

books. Please.”

Parents and students have a moral responsibility to return the textbooks loaned to them at the various levels of learning.

Once they are finished, they must return these books so that other learners can comfortably have access in this pandemic environment.

In a nutshell, timely handing over of the books will ensure a smooth continuation of the learning process.

That said every effort must be made to ensure all textbooks for students, teachers, and schools are diligently recorded to track and retain them for use again.

The Government of Guyana, every year is spending huge sums to improve performance in the education sector, inherent in which includes a high level of accountability from all stakeholders to ensure value for the monies expended. The returning of

learning materials loaned to learners is an integral part of that process.

Notably, according to the Mid-year Report for 2021, approximately $980.5 million of the education budget was spent on worksheets and textbooks. This was done to help learners who were learning from home during to the closure of traditional school.

Additionally, 165,958 textbooks were procured and distributed to approximately 13,450 Grade Six students at the primary level, alone. The return of the textbooks loaned to learners, therefore will see a vast improvement in the availability of learning materials that the Education Ministry will have at its disposal during this pandemic.

This will be a big plus for learners, who at all levels have faced challenges beyond the norm brought about by COVID-19.

Governments over the years, more particularly, the People’s Progressive Party

Civic (PPP/C) Government, have always prioritised education, with the latter placing extensive attention on bridging the gap between coastland and hinterland learners.

This year, some $60.7 billion was allocated to the education sector, a significant increase from the sum allocated last year, geared to ensure continuity in education delivery across Guyana.

And the Ministry of Education, led by Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, must be commended for leading from the front and delivering on the mandate of the government, which has shown care and compassion to citizens, regardless of their ethnicity, religion or political affiliation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Parents and students should reciprocate and hand over all outstanding textbooks to their school to ensure a smooth continuation of the learning process.

Green State Development Strategy was all sloganeering Dear Editor, ON Thursday, President Irfaan Ali launched the consultations for the LCDS 2030 plan which his government intends to pursue.

The plan will see Guyana benefitting in several critical areas which need no explanation. However, I wish to point out that Guyana has been focused on its carbon emission for years now. In fact, the PPP/C Government had a vision to create a new global ecosystem economy around 2009.

This led to the government seeking out international partners with similar vision. It is as a result of such that Guyana and Norway partnered to create a model for economic

incentives for making forests worth more alive than dead.

Editor, it is important for people to know that for the period 2009 to 2015, Guyana received approximately US$212 million in payments to be invested in the LCDS. I am not sure how many of your readers can remember that during this period under the PPP/C government, benefits reached every single corner of the country. As far as I can recall, jobs were created, villages received titles, businesses were supported and other initiatives took shape. However, a lot of the measures outlined in the LCDS were stymied by the APNU+AFC Coalition when they took office in 2015. Take for instance the Amaila Falls Hydropower

Project (AFHP). I heard the President talk about this during the launch of the LCDS 2030 consultations saying that the AFHP was the flagship of the LCDS and would have seen Guyanese and businesses enjoying affordable, non-polluting electricity by now. I do agree that should that project have moved along as intended, Guyana would be in a much better place.

Unfortunately, what we saw happen when the APNU+AFC Coalition took office in 2015 was that they introduced the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS).

However, if one was to examine that strategy in detail, it would be very clear that it was basically all sloganeering. I say this because there was no realistic path towards

achieving low carbon emission outlined in the strategy for Guyana. As far as I am concerned, it was all rhetoric accompanied by the painting of buildings the colour green.

For all those who may disagree with me, I ask this question: if the GSDS was truly a solid plan for Guyana, why didn’t Guyana earn a cent from it? The LCDS vision of the PPP/C government has always been the one that would lead Guyana down the right path.

I applaud the government for their efforts with this new LCDS 2030 initiative as I believe that it will benefit Guyana tremendously.

Truly yours, Erin Northe

Harmon’s call for 50 per cent royalty is comical Dear Editor, I PEN this letter to you today in regard to something I saw plastered on the front page of the Sunday, October 24 edition of the Kaieteur Newspaper which I find quite laughable.

As I am sure many persons are aware, Kaieteur News would usually carry pictures in its publications of persons holding placards as part of their activism in support of their call for renegotiation of the controversial ExxonMobil oil contract signed by the APNU+AFC. In the Sunday edition highlighted above the “protestor” was none other than Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon, who wore a jersey with

writing that called for 50 per cent royalty to be paid to Guyana. Editor, I found this to be hilarious and quite embarrassing for the Opposition Leader; hence, my decision to write to you today.

It is paramount that everyone is reminded that it was the APNU+AFC Coalition that negotiated and signed the very two per cent royalty agreement which Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon, is now “protesting” against. In fact, a simple Google search will provide evidence of this. As a matter of fact, I reference an article published in June 2017 by iNews Guyana headlined “Exxon Mobil will pay two per cent royalty in new pact with gov’t”. This article provided a very detailed synopsis

of the royalty agreement which the APNU+AFC Coalition signed with Exxon.

With this in mind, I find it strange that the Opposition Leader would join the “protest” for 50 per cent royalty when it was his government that agreed for Guyana to receive two per cent in the first place. It is either that the picture used on Kaieteur News’ front page of the Opposition Leader was photoshopped or it’s a case of the usual dishonesty from the APNU+AFC. At the same time, I found this whole thing to be even more comical when I flipped through the pages of the very edition of the Kaieteur Newspaper to find an article highlighting the APNU+AFC Coalition’s incompetent handling of the oil and

gas sector. In fact, the article revealed that Suriname was able to secure a US$30.8M signing bonus for a block measuring approximately 2,235km2. However, in the case of Guyana, the APNU+AFC Coalition agreed to collect US$18M for an area that is 12 times the size of the Suriname block.

Editor, the fact that the Opposition Leader is parading around saying that Guyana should demand 50 per cent royalty when his government settled for two per cent is evidence of how inept they are. I trust that all your readers would see the same.

Yours very truly, Anson Paul

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Sod turned for $150M milk plant at Onverwagt

COME next year, Guyanese, instead of relying solely on foreign-made milk, will be able to break the seal of a locally produced bottle of Mahaica Dairy Milk –the premier brand of the Amaya Milk Company.

The official sod-turning ceremony for construction of the company’s milk plant was held on Friday at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice.

Speaking at the simple ceremony, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha said that the spanking new $150M project will see cattle farmers in Regions Five and Six earning $75M monthly.

government’s commitment to the agriculture sector and the development of our country.”

The agriculture minister stated that the project will see not only Guyana, but also the entire Caribbean reducing its import percentage of dairy milk and its by-products.

“This investment is timely as…the last decade has seen a lot of investment being made in importing milk and milk products. Milk products represent 25 per cent of Guyana’s food-import bill and today when Guyana is leading the agri food agenda in the Caribbean. I think this here will

COME Tuesday, Justice Sandil Kissoon is expected to sum up the evidence in the trial of Aaron Hing, who is accused of the 2016 murder of his godbrother, Dominic Bernard.

Hing is currently before the Berbice High Court for the capital offence of murder, which alleged that he killed Bernard on October 14, 2015, at Kildonan Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

He has pleaded not guilty to the indictment and is being represented by attorney-at-law, Sanjeev Datadin.

Aaron Hing

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh He noted government’s commitment to investing in the country’s agricultural sector through the provision of the necessary support to farmers and Guyanese as a whole. “...you can see the energies and efforts we are putting in the non-oil sector of the country to develop our economy,” he said, adding: “We recognise the importance of the agriculture sector, and we don’t want to be caught like the other countries... where many times they have neglected the agriculture sector and concentrated on one sector. This shows our

complement what we are doing is to ensure that we reduce the food-import bill in Guyana and in the Caribbean,” he added.

According to statistics provided by Minister Mustapha, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is spending close to US $5B on agricultural imports.

He stated that the regional figure, as well as Guyana’s, will soon change as investments in the agricultural sector continue to roll in.

Meanwhile, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said that

Verdict looms for man accused of murdering British teen

the multi-million dollar investment comes at a critical juncture in the development of Guyana’s agricultural sector and economy as a whole.

He noted that the government is focused on promoting a sustainable economy.

“An economy that is built first and foremost around the principle of sustainability and when we speak of sustainability, not only from the environmental standpoint, but sustainability in the most comprehensive sense possible,” the minister said.

He added: “The art of sustainability and resilience must be diversification... and diversification of the productive sector.”

The economy, Minister Singh said, will not be built only on the emerging oil and gas sector or any dominant sector but rather on all the abundant resources Guyana has to offer, so as to create a diverse production channel for the country’s economy.

“We have always embraced very closely the principle of ensuring that the Guyanese economy is as widely diversified as possible …in our previous terms of office our vision was always one that is built around a highly

diversified economy. we have never been content to sit back and see the Guyanese economy revolve [around] any one or even three dominate sectors,” he said.

The finance minister also lauded the interest of investors in Guyana’s agriculture, adding that it was good to see young members of the Guyanese diaspora returning to invest in the country.

The sod-turning ceremony comes six months after a MoU was inked between the company’s General Manager, Canada-based Guyanese Omkaar Sharma, and GO-Invest.

As previously reported, the company has already spent some G$85 million on equipment for the milk-pasteurising facility.

Construction is expected to be completed by March/April of 2022 and will see milk being sold in returnable glass bottles, which will help to minimise negative environmental impacts.

The company plans to eventually expand its production to include yogurt, cheese, paneer and cream and as local dairy production increases, regional markets will be targeted.

Special prosecutor, attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat, on Friday, closed the State’s case after calling over 20 witnesses.

Following the summing up on Tuesday, the judge will hand over the case to the 12-member jury who will retire to consider their verdict.

Recently, Hing’s former co-accused, Dead: Dominic Bernard S t a y m o n G e o r g e called “Sherwin,” pleaded guilty to the crime and was sentenced by Justice Kissoon to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 35 years.

Meanwhile, George’s ‘childmother’, Krystol Thomas, her mother Sinfine Henry, also known as “Coreen,” and his friend, Jahmil Sinclair, were granted $300,000 bail each after being charged as an accessory in relation to Bernard’s murder. They are expected to stand trial soon.

The teenager reportedly arrived in Guyana on the evening of October 14, 2015. George, who is said to be a close friend of Hing, was the driver who transported Hing to the airport to collect Bernard.

The teen was scheduled to fly back to England on November 5, 2015.

After collecting the teen from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, they stopped at a location on Sheriff Street where they ate and drank a few beers.

Bernard was never seen again. His parents came to Guyana, after he failed to arrive home.

On January 8, 2016, the badly decomposed body of the teen was found in a shallow grave in the backlands of Nurney Village. A DNA sample taken from the body was tested against Dominic’s father, and they matched.

The police later issued an arrest warrant for Hing and George after they disappeared when investigators attempted to contact them.

Hing was arrested while hiding out at a city hotel, while George was nabbed at a house in Tucville, Georgetown. It is alleged that those charged with accessory hid Bernard’s personal belongings, including his camera.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

€3M COVID-19 recovery grant available for Guyanese businesses

By Richard Bhainie

SMALL and medium size Guyanese businesses can tap into a grant which would enable them to access up to €30,000, equivalent to GY$7,200,000, to help

fast track their recovery from devastating effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The funding is available through the Direct Support Grants Programme (DSGP) by the Caribbean Export

Development Agency and is funded by the European Union under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Regional Private Sector Development Programme.

During an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Dr.

Damie Sinanan, Manager, Competitiveness and Export Promotion, Caribbean Export Development Agency, related that the grant was developed in response to the immediate need for firms to retool and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The idea is that the grant funds will be used to build the businesses, they will grow, expand, hire more people and earn more foreign exchange when they export and that will contribute to the economic development of Guyana which will in turn contribute to the economic development of the Caribbean,” he said.

Under the initiative, Caribbean Forum of African Caribbean and Pacific States (CARIFORUM) businesses can receive a non-reimbursable grant valued between €10,000 – €30,000 to implement an approved project they propose from a total available grant facility of €3,000,000.

Funding will be provided for areas including digitalisation of businesses, resource efficiency and renewable energy, marketing and promotions, research and development, purchase and upgrade of capital goods, certification, capacity building and protection of intellectual property rights.

Businesses desirous of accessing the grant can visit

Caribbean Export Development Agency’s website at www.carib-export.com/ dsgp2021 where they will be able to download the requisite application forms and guideline documents.

The firms will have to write a proposal of how the funding is intended to be used. This includes firms elaborating on their business’s mandate, and articulating the project they are desirous of executing. They will also have to submit a budget not exceeding €30,000 of how they intend to spend the funds.

“What we ask is that firms write strong proposals because it’s a competitive grant and you’re talking about thousands of firms across the region and we have a limited basket of funds, so you have to make sure that you’re competitive so sit down take time and articulate your proposal properly,” Dr. Sinanan said.

To make things easier, during his visit to Guyana, Sinanan has been working with business support organisations such as the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and the Small Business Bureau to enlighten those organisations of the grant so they can further assist local businesses.

The period to execute the project proposed by the business may not exceed six months from the signing of the Grant Contract and guidance will be provided by Caribbean Export Development

Dr. Damie Sinanan, Manager, Competitiveness and Export Promotion, Caribbean Export Development Agency (Samuel Maughn photo) Agency on how to complete the project over the project lifeline.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency will also be hosting a series of webinars in the coming week to help firms draft their proposals and provide assistance with the application process. Business can also ask questions at the forums or direct those questions to info@carib-export. com.

The grant is available to businesses that have export potential or are already exporting, to increase their capacity and competitiveness, boost export earnings and create precious jobs.

Caribbean Export Development Agency is the regional trade and investment promotion agency for the CARIFORUM Region, focused on building a resilient Caribbean by providing cutting-edge and high-impact support to the private sector.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

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32 staff sergeants begin senior leadership course

Inspector-General, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts (centre front) flanked on his left by Commanding Officer Training Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Collin Henry and on his right by Officer Commanding SLC, Major Andre Cush, along with staff and students of SLC 10 THIRTY-TWO staff sergeants from several units across the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have commenced training on the Senior Leaders Course (SLC) 10.

The course was formally declared open on Friday at a simple ceremony held at the Lecture Hall, Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands.

The course is designed to equip Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCO) with the knowledge and skills necessary to function as Unit and Sub-Unit Sergeant Majors, across the full spectrum of military operations.

Commanding Officer Training Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Collin Henry, in his welcome remarks to the students, reminded them of their responsibilities as sergeant majors to the force and the soldiers under their command.

He said that sergeant majors are also responsible and accountable for the development, welfare and improved quality of life of their subordinate and their families, and are also expected to enforce the values and standards of the Defence Force.

Inspector-General, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, during his delivery of the feature address, urged the

students to grasp all the knowledge presented and tasked them to look for ways in which to apply the principles to their offices and units.

He emphasised that the military depends on sergeant majors for effectiveness and efficiency, as they are the guardians of discipline, drills and regimentation.

The Inspector-General told the students that it was imperative for them to continue to develop their leadership through practical application of the principles being taught.

“Make a personal decision to have a positive impact on leadership at your level… have a firm desire to improve and correct your environment,” he implored.

The SNCO’s will receive training for 12-weeks in the areas of minor staff duties and operational staff work, communication skills studies, management, leadership, problem-solving and logical thinking, current affairs, open country warfare (minor tactics), military law, drills, training, administration, environmental studies, history of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), military ethics and range management familiarisation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Double-murder accused recaptured

KAPILDEO Gangadin, a double-murder accused, who escaped from the Lusignan Prison on Thursday morning, was recaptured on Friday, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) has confirmed.

The GPS noted that Gangadin was recaptured sometime around 09:30 hours in the vicinity of Onderneeming, West Bank Demerara.

The escapee was in a minibus proceeding to Parika, East Bank Essequibo. However, acting on information, police on the West Coast of Demerara immediately launched a road-block operation at Onderneeming Public Road, resulting in the capture of Gangadin.

He was taken into cus-

tody and was interviewed by members of the Guyana Police Force.

Meanwhile, the Prison Administration expressed thanks to the ranks of the Guyana Police Force and the public for their commitment and dedication that led to the speedy recapture of the prisoner.

Director of Prisons (Ag) Nicklon Elliot, assured that the Guyana Prison Service stands resolute in maintaining security within the country’s prisons.

He also noted that officers who fail to adhere to the established security rules in order to maintain a secure and efficient environment in the prison system will be sanctioned.

Gangadin, on Wednesday last, appeared in the

Cove and John Magistrate’s Court in connection with the recent murder of 21-year-old businessman, Ganesh Persaud and the 2020 murder of fisherman, Mukesh Mangra.

Gangadin of Annandale, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was not required to plead to two counts of murder which were read to him by Magistrate Fabayo Azore. He was later remanded to prison.

The first charge alleged that on January 18, 2020, at Coldingen, ECD, he murdered Mangra known as “Paul” during the course or furtherance of a robbery.

He is also alleged to have murdered Persaud at Strathspey, ECD, on October 15, 2021.

The State was repre-

Captured: Kapildeo Gangadin

Dead: Ganesh Persaud

Dead: Mukesh Mangra

sented by Corporal David Goodridge, while Gangadin was unrepresented.

The matters are adjourned until January 17, 2022.

Hours after Persaud’s murder, Gangadin was arrested with the man’s stolen gold chain.

While in custody, Gangadin reportedly admitted that he was also involved in the murder of Mangra.

He reportedly told police that after killing Mangra he fled to Suriname, and had recently returned to Guyana.

According to reports, on October 15, 2021, Per-

saud was inside his family’s hardware store at Strathspey, when he was confronted by Gangadin, who attempted to rob him.

In the process, Gangadin dealt Persaud a stab to the neck, causing him to bleed profusely. The suspect then relieved the victim of his gold jewellery and a quantity of cash and made good his escape.

Persaud, however, managed to exit the business where he was assisted by several persons and taken to the Balwant Singh Hospital, where he died while receiving

medical attention.

As it relates to the other murder, Mangra’s lifeless body was found on the Coldingen Public Road on January 18, 2020. He was reportedly killed during an armed robbery committed by three men.

Vivekanand Ram and Roy Jaglall were later charged jointly for Mangra’s murder and remanded.

A preliminary inquiry (PI) into the murder is currently ongoing at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Man gets three years for cocaine trafficking, co-accused remanded

THE owner of D&D Pawn Shop, Andre Gomes called ‘Zipper’ and a 33-year-old man, who were recently nabbed with $2 million worth of cocaine, were, on Friday, arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Eon Joseph of Tucville Squatting Area, Georgetown, denied the drug trafficking charge when it was read to him, while Gomes, 61, of Craig Street, Campbellville pleaded not guilty.

According to the particulars of the joint charge, the two, on October 26, at Gomes’ Craig Street, Campbellville home, had two kilograms of cocaine in their possession for the purpose of trafficking.

They were represented by attorney-at-law Siand Dhurjon, who asked the court for leniency when sentencing Joseph. In an application for bail for Gomes, Dhurjon told the court that his client is constantly harassed and victimised by ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and the police.

According to the facts presented by police prosecutor Richard Harris, on the day in question, CANU ranks

acting on a “tip-off”, went to Gomes’ home and conducted surveillance.

While conducting surveillance, they saw Joseph arriving in a car and entering Gomes’ yard. The prosecutor told the court that the men proceeded to do the “drug transaction” after which CANU ranks ran into the yard and caught them in the act.

They were arrested with two brick-like parcels of suspected cocaine.

However, Joseph, during his address to the court contradicted the police facts.

According to Joseph, he was under financial hardship when two men approached him with cocaine to sell.

He explained that he took the men to Gomes’ residence, but he (Gomes) turned them away, and while leaving the premises CANU ranks stormed the yard and arrested everyone.

The Chief Magistrate sentenced Joseph to three years imprisonment together with a fine of $3.1M. Gomes was remanded to prison until November 2.

Gomes is no stranger to law enforcement officials. In June 2015, a murder charge was withdrawn against him

by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) due to insufficient evidence. He had been charged with the May 10, 2015 murder of Nigel Isaacs of Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Georgetown. Isaacs was shot in the head outside of Palm Court.

Then in 2018, Gomes was freed of a drug trafficking charge by City Magistrate Leron Daly. He was accused of trafficking 902 grams of cocaine on January 30, 2018 at his Craig Street home.

Also in 2018, Gomes’ son, Mark Gomes, along with Mohammed Kadir were charged for trafficking 4.9 pounds of cocaine on March 29, 2018, at Sheriff Street.

They were subsequently found guilty and sentenced to four years’ imprisonment together with a fine of $6M. In August 2017, Gomes’ girlfriend, Naomi Persaud, was sentenced to four years jail and fined $21M after 20 pounds of cocaine in a gas cylinder was found in her Craig Street house.

Their grandson, a national under-19 cricketer, was jointly charged with the offence but the charge was dismissed after his grandmother “took the rap.”

L-R Andre Gomes called ‘Zipper’ and Eon Joseph

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

Thirst for knowledge leads Essequibo scholar to legal profession

By Clestine Juan IT was a bittersweet moment on Friday for father of two, Dhaneshwar

Deonarine, when he was admitted to the local bar, marking the latest step in his journey towards developing and providing

service to Guyana.

Deonarine, 34, who hails from the Cinderella County, was admitted to the bar by Justice Navindra Singh after

his petition was presented

by Attorney-at-Law Devindra Kissoon at the Demerara High Court.

Kissoon, in presenting a brief biography, said that Deonarine had a thirst for tertiary education and outstanding work ethics which he saw first-hand during his in-service training at the London House Chambers in Georgetown.

An Essequibian by birth, Deonarine graduated from the Anna Regina Secondary School, on the Essequibo Coast in 2003. He then

He was also employed as Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Industry & Commerce; National Consultant/Project Coordinator, Smart Hospitals Initiative and Disaster Preparedness & Response and Development Officer in the Development Assistance Section at the High Commission of Canada.

During his final semester at HWLS, Deonarine was employed as the Guyana Project Coordinator for the DAI’s Sustainable Business Group (SBG).

Deonarine is currently employed as Chief Labour Officer at the Ministry of Labour.

fession. The judge praised Deonarine for his lengthy portfolio, and his quest for knowledge.

He also cited a quote from former Chief Justice of the Connecticut Superior Court, Bartlett Andrews, who, in 1891, said, “It is not enough for an attorney to be honest. He must be that, and more. He must be believed to be honest. It is absolutely essential to the usefulness of an attorney that he be entitled to the confidence of the community wherein he practises... A lawyer needs, indeed, to be learned. But all these may exist to a moderate degree, and yet he may be a credible and useful member of the profession so long as

Attorneys-at-law Devindra Kissoon (left), Dhaneshwar Deonarine, and Justice Navindra Singh attended the University of Guyana until 2009, during which time he graduated with credit in the Bachelor of Economics degree programme and a distinction in the Diploma in Project Management programme.

In 2010, he enrolled at the Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, in New Delhi, India, and graduated in 2011 with higher first-class honours for his Master’s in Human Resource Planning and Development.

In 2016, he returned to UG to read for a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, and graduated in 2019 with a distinction. After completing his LLB, he attended the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) in Trinidad, and was recently awarded his Legal Education Certificate (LEC) with honours.

While balancing academic studies and family life, Deonarine held many positions, including Administrative Assistant at the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sports, and a part-time lecturer at UG for courses in Labour Economics/Social Policy, Training and Development, Tourism Economics, Personnel Industrial Relations, and Corporate Social Responsibility.

WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE With his wealth of knowledge, and his background in economics, Deonarine’s responsibilities there are to advise the minister, government ministries/departments, public corporations, private companies, trade unions and employees and employer organisations, on labour/ industrial relations matters.

Kissoon, in his testament to Deonarine’s character at his Chambers, highlighted the young attorney’s impeccable research skills, his diligence, and his willingness to go above and beyond in his thirst for knowledge.

In a courtroom filled with family and friends, Deonarine recounted his journey towards achieving his legal education, and acknowledged that the road was challenging.

As he reflected on the years of study, Deonarine was moved to tears. He expressed gratitude to his parents and his wife for the many sacrifices they made for him to fulfil his dream.

Justice Singh advised the young attorney to always remember his oath, and to uphold the ethics of the pro-

the practice is to him a clean and honest function. If once the practice becomes to him a mere ‘brawl for hire,’ or a system of legalized plunder, where craft and not conscience is the rule, and where falsehood and not truth is the means by which to gain his ends, then he has forfeited all right to be an officer in any court of justice or to be numbered among the members of an honourable profession.”

Justice Singh urged Deonarine to remember the quote, since it describes qualities that every attorney should have.

During a brief interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Deonarine said that service is very important to him, since most of his life has been spent in the Public Service.

He also has a vested interest in improving the local laws that focus on economic and social development.

In giving words of advice to his peers, he said: “I know it is a tough competition getting in the top 25, but that should not deter you.

There might be times that are tough, and you want to quit, but sometimes you have to pull yourself back and take it one day at a time.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

US announces Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative Fellowship Programme 2023 THE US Embassy has opened the application period for the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Professional Fellows Programme, a release from the embassy announced on Friday.

According to a release, the YLAI applications are now being accepted at https:// ylai.state.gov. and the deadline for applications is December 1, 2021.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, YLAI will bring 280 promising leaders from Latin America, Canada, and the Caribbean this year to the United States to expand their leadership and entrepreneurial skills and network through skills-building workshops and opportunities to learn from and exchange with U.S. counterparts. The programme will take place from January to February 2023 in the United States.

It is open to young entrepreneurs 25-35 years of age, with a demonstrated track record of successfully growing their own business or social venture for at least two years and is a current resident and citizen of Guyana.

“The YLAI Fellowship Programme is part of the U.S. continued commitment to the prosperity of Guyana and the region. The YLAI Fellowship Programme supports and connects young entrepreneurs across the Western Hemisphere to take on leadership roles that benefit their communities and strengthen their economies. To date, 14 young Guyanese entrepreneurs have participated in the YLAI Professional Fellows Programme,” the release said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

McClure’s day in the seat of top Canadian diplomat IN celebration of the International Day of the Girl 2021, the High Commission of Canada, on Thursday, was led by Corissa McClure, who operated in the capacity as the ‘High Commissioner for the Day’.

According to a release, McClure was selected as the

winner of the ‘High Commissioner for the Day contest where the High Commission invited girls from the ages of 15 to 20 years old to submit a one-minutelong video discussing the topic ‘What steps would you recommend Caribbean leaders take to increase gender equality?’ After reviewing

the numerous video submissions, Corissa McClure emerged as the clear winner.

In her capacity as the High Commissioner, McClure had a day filled with meetings and other engagements as she used the platform to advocate for gender equality in Guyana and the Caribbean.

The release noted that McClure’s day began with a meeting at the CARICOM Secretariat where she met with Dr. Carla Barnett, the CARICOM Secretary-General; Dr. Douglas Slater, Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development; Charmaine Atkinson-Jordan, Chef de Cabinet, Office of the Secretary-General; Ann-Marie Williams, Deputy Programme Manager, Gender and Development and Michele Small-Bartley, Deputy Programme Manager, Youth Development at CARICOM. High Commissioner Mark Berman and Caroline Mireault, Counsellor (Politics), at the Canadian High Commission were also present.

The team from CARICOM congratulated McClure on winning the High Commissioner for the Day contest and the excellent points she presented to promote gender equality. The team took the opportunity to speak about some of CARICOM’s projects under their youth programme and their up-coming plans under their gender and development portfolio.

During the meeting, CARICOM Secretary-General Barnett also highlighted that she is looking forward to the day when a woman being the Secretary-General of CARICOM or any other senior institution would no longer be a rare occurrence.

She emphasised that women belong at the forums where decisions are being made and she encouraged McClure to continue to pursue

her ambitions of one day becoming a diplomat, the release said.

Later in the day, McClure was also the guest of honour at a lunch hosted at the High Commissioner’s residence that included British High Commissioner, Jane Miller; US Ambassador, Sarah Ann Lynch; UN Resident Coordinator, Yesim Oruc; the CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett; Brazilian Ambassador, Maria Clara Duclos Carisio, and Deputy EU Representative, Evelina Melbarzde.

The women provided McClure with more insight on the life of career diplomat and had discussions with her on how she can continue to influence change in any male dominated field. They also spoke about the points she proposed to increase gender quality and the current issues affecting youth, of which McClure highlighted mental health as an important issue.

Later, McClure was given a tour of the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. The tour was facilitated by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Anjanie Ramlall, and Sanjay Pooran, Senior Training Officer at the institute, who provided information on the business incubator, the WIIN Programme and other initiatives.

According to the release, McClure had the opportunity to discuss her suggestions for how the ministry can

Corissa increase gender equality and also hear the programmes that the ministry already had in place.

During the tour she was given a background about the institute and the ongoing work to upgrade the facilities to better serve women, including the new computer lab and the construction of a modern kitchen, which the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives is providing with appliances.

McClure was also able to interact with Aliyah Hassan, who is a part of the Ministry’s Young Influencers Programme and she was invited to be a guest on the ministry’s youth show “Youth Unfiltered”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 30, 2021

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Butts is new CEO of Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce

THE Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (CGCC) has welcomed Treina F. Butts as is new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a release from the entity said.

“On behalf of the Chamber Board, I welcome Treina to the chamber and community. We have high expectations that she will lead the chamber to continued success and growth,” stated Anand Beharry, CGCC Chair, who added: “Ms. Butts’ extensive knowledge and leadership experience with non-profit organisations, fundraising, strategic planning and business management

a McClure (third left) interacting with the diplomats on Thursday

Treina F. Butts

skills will serve to develop strategic alliances, expand CGCC market presence, and bring value to our business partners here in Guyana, Canada and other locations.”

The release noted that Butts offers extensive experience and knowledge on sustainable development, gender empowerment, small business and people development through the sustainable utilisation of resources, tourism and the hospitality industries.

She is a driven, passionate professional recognised for establishing and implementing creative strategic development plans.

“I am honoured to be joining the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce,” Butts said, adding: “I look forward to advancing its mandate, supporting the economic prosperity for Canada and Guyana. I look forward to driving partnerships, maximising opportunities for foreign investment, helping to access key markets, and support people development in key sectors.”

Butts holds a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Studies from the University of Guyana, and certifications in Sustainable Tourism, Cluster Development, and Results-based Management. She is passionate about advocating for the economic vibrancy of the communities in which she serves.

In her role as Executive Director of the Tourism Hospitality Association Guyana (THAG), she led the organisation to increased focus on tackling the barriers to business and community growth.

Under her leadership, THAG secured several funding partnership opportunities, and expanded the organisation’s representation. Butts will replace Natalia Seepersaud, the chamber’s inaugural CEO, who established a strong foundation and presence in Canada and Guyana, the release concluded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

Water supply improvement project to commence shortly in River’s View

GUYANA Water Incorporated (GWI) will soon commence works to the tune of $7M to improve the water supply in River’s View, a village located on the border of Region 10.

According to a release, this is in keeping with a promise made by the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shaik Baksh, during a visit to the community earlier this year upon an invitation from Village Toshao, Melena Pollard.

Funding for the implementation of the project in the community of approximately 1,100 residents was acquired from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) under the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme.

The contract was, on Thursday, handed over to the Village Toshao by the

GWI’s CEO, Shaik Baksh, hands over the contract to River’s View Toshao, Melena Pollard CEO who expressed his appreciation to UNICEF for the assistance to promote good hygiene and improved water supply.

He took the opportunity to highlight that there are some riverine communities

that are not receiving potable water supply from GWI and the company is working to ensure 100 per cent access in those communities irrespective of population size Baksh added that the company is well prepared

to bring 100 per cent access to potable water in all hinterland areas within the next three years. He attributed this readiness to the capability of the GWI team as well as a robust hinterland development strategy.

Meanwhile, GWI’s Executive Director of Hinterland Services, Ramchand Jailal, explained that the River’s View project will entail the installation of almost four kilometers of pipelines, the activation of two new wells

and the installation of new photovoltaic systems.

These works will be executed by a GWI in-house team in close collaboration with the River’s View Village Council and are expected to be completed by the end of November 2021.

River’s View currently only has one well in operation. This well, which is equipped with a submersible pump, is solar powered and serves a section of the community, the release said.

Toshao Melena Pollard expressed gratitude to GWI for the intervention in her community which she said relies heavily on rainwater, but suffers in the dry season.

Therefore, she said that the village is grateful that with the government’s intervention through GWI, more residents will be able to access potable water.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

Pakistan on the brink of semi-finals (ESPNCRICINFO) - The modern rivalry between Pakistan and Afghanistan produced yet another instant classic, but in the end Afghanistan ran out of bowling depth to lose with one over to go.

Pakistan, who will know they manufactured a crisis especially with captain Babar Azam losing his wits around Rashid Khan, are now practically in the semi-finals with Asif Ali bailing them out with four sixes in the 19th over.

It was as loud as it was tense off the field with scenes of stampede outside the stadium when trying to keep out ticketless fans reminiscent of the rioting during the 2019 World Cup match at Headingley between these two sides.

On the field, Afghanistan made all the running, be it a frenetic start; the slowdown to avoid getting bowled out, the finishing quick, the Mujeeb Ur Rahman attack first up, the holding back of Rashid or the Naveen-ul-Haq 18th over to create pressure.

Pakistan kept absorbing the blows before Asif struck the deciding ones in the 19th over.

With one whole bowler's quote to be made up of Karim Janat and Gulbadin Naib, who didn't bowl on the night, Afghanistan just had too few to defend the 147.

HELTER SKELTER The start was pure no-holds-barred manic Twenty20 energy. Three batters' first scoring

shots in the powerplay were sixes. Haris Rauf bowled the joint-fastest ball of the Super 12 stage.

Shaheen Afridi didn't get a wicket in the first over, but got one in his second. Imad Wasim took out a left-hand batter in his first and got carted two right-hand batters in his second. All told Afghanistan were 49 for 4 after the powerplay.

It didn't stop there. After a couple of overs' lull, Najibullah Zadran reverse-swept Shadab Khan for four, followed by a four and six off him in his following overs. In-between Imad got Janat. Shadab's response to the six was the perfect wrong'un to take Najib's edge and make it 70 for 6 in the 13th over.

THE NABI-NAIB SHOW By the time Najibullah got out, Mohammad Nabi scored just five off 12. He would continue going slow to 20 off 23 at the start of the death overs. They knew they had lost too many wickets up front, and now needed wickets in hand if they were going to get big runs in the back four.

Rauf conceded just three in the 17th. In the 18th, though, Nabi exploited the short legside boundary to take down Hasan Ali and then capitalised on a couple of errors from Rauf.

Forty-six off the last four gave Afghanistan something to work with.

West Indies scrape home after Russell holds nerve (ESPNCRICINFO) - Andre Russell's telling final over sealed West Indies' first win of the T20 World Cup 2021, as they beat Bangladesh by three runs in Sharjah.

In a battle that came down to the final over, Bangladesh needed 13 runs to win but Russell nailing his yorkers meant Mahmudullah and Afif Hossain could manage only nine.

West Indies' batting was not up to the mark again, particularly in the first 15 overs. They struggled overall with their ground fielding and catching too. Nicholas Pooran's 22-ball 40, along with superb death-bowling efforts by Russell, Dwayne Bravo and Ravi Rampaul, helped them stay in the game. Bangladesh bowlers could have shut off West Indies much earlier, but for Pooran, who was adjudged Player-of-the-Match for his batting display.

POORAN LIGHTS IT UP West Indies' seven sixes in the last five overs made up for their lack of boundaries in the first 15. Pooran started things with two slog sweeps off Shakib Al Hasan, before going straight against Mahedi Hasan.

Jason Holder then slammed a wayward Mustafizur Rahman for two big sixes through square leg, before Pollard, who had retired ill in the 13th over, came back to finish off the innings with a six over midwicket. West Indies got the much-needed runs, plundering 58 in the last five overs, taking the total to 142 for 7.

missed Pooran's stumping when he was on 2. In the 19th over, Afif couldn't hold on to Holder's chance at the deep cover boundary, again costing Bangladesh some important runs.

West Indies too had a bad day in the field. They missed a few run-out chances and dropped three catches too.

A SLOPPY DAY IN THE FIELD Bangladesh missed four chances in the field yesterday. Mahedi dropped Roston Chase twice, the first was off his own bowling in the seventh over when Chase chipped one towards him. In the 14th over, Mahedi then dropped him at the wide long-on boundary.

But what happened next ball really cost Bangladesh. Liton Das

AN ENFORCED GAMBLE Shakib pulled his hamstring as early as the fifth over of the match, but he plodded through most of the West Indies innings, bowling his full quota of four overs. The best time an injured Shakib could contribute with the bat was the powerplay, so Bangladesh did a slightly out-of-the-box move by sending him out to open the innings with Mohammad Naim.

That did not work out well for

Andre Russell picked up the first wicket for West Indies (ICC via Getty)

Bangladesh, as Shakib could manage just 9 runs off 12 balls, getting out to Russell in the fifth over.

The scoop doesn't work for Mushfiqur The scoop shot hasn't really worked for Mushfiqur Rahim, who has now got out twice, bowled while trying the shot in critical phases in the T20 World Cup. In this game, he missed the scoop off Rampaul who bowled straight on the stumps.

It came shortly after Mushfiqur had struck a four with a superb square cut earlier in the over, but the dismissal left Bangladesh at 90 for 4 in the 14th over. Mushfiqur had similarly missed the scoop against Chris Greaves in Bangladesh's first match against Scotland, getting out at a critical time in their chase again shortly after he had started to connect the ball well.

RUSSELL'S KNOCKOUT BLOW West Indies didn't allow Bangladesh to get away with the game even when Mahmudullah and Liton threatened to do so at times. After Liton got out in the 19th over, Bangladesh were left with 13 needed off the last over. It was all set up well for Mahmudullah, but after getting the strike in the third delivery, he hardly had room to swing his arms.

He even got a chance, with eight needed off three balls, when Andre Fletcher dropped him at deep square leg. Mahmudullah and Afif could only deal in twos, and with four needed off the last ball, Russell zoomed in another full ball which missed Mahmudullah's flashing blade.

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Philip Fernandes returns as GHB head PHILIP Fernandes will be at the helm of local hockey for another year following the Annual General Meeting of the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) last Saturday.

The meeting was well attended as the virtual nature seemed to make it more convenient for participants and all local clubs were fully represented.

The agenda for this meeting included: The President’s Report, Secretary’s Report, Auditor’s Report, Review of the amended GHB Constitution and Election of Office-bearers for the period 2022-23.

The President’s report lamented the huge setbacks, imposed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, which have crippled the sport for the past year and a half. He, however, made mention of Guyana being able to work in the restrictive conditions to prepare a women’s national team for the Indoor Pan American Cup in June.

Among other highlights of recent years were the youth development programme which is set to be resuscitated as soon as conditions permit and the hosting of local tournaments and hosting of the Pan American Indoor Hockey Tournament 2017.

It was noted that the success of the locally hosted Pan American Indoor Championships prompted Pan Am officials to ask Guyana to bid for the hosting of an Indoor World Cup. The president, however, indicated that the GHB would need to wait for some of the development initiatives currently being undertaken by the Ministry of Sport to be completed as such a high-profile event would require first-class facilities.

It was also stated that the

Guyanese hockey fraternity continues to face challenges such as fading light, unavailability of grounds due to rainy weather conditions and the absence of an artificial surface. The GHB is currently engaged in discussions with the National Sports Commission (NSC) for the continued development of hockey and the acquisition of an artificial playing surface.

Honorary Secretary, Tricia Fiedtkou, echoed the president’s sentiments on both the successes and hurdles faced by the GHB. The presented financial report and amended constitution were adopted by the clubs.

The election was managed by Returning Officer, Attorney-at-Law Michael Xavier, who managed to conduct the virtual voting process using readily available software specifically designed for the purpose.

Other positions include Tricia Fiedtkou and Brian Asregado as vice-presidents, Maria Atkinson-Munroe as Honorary Secretary Roger Pereira as Treasurer, Charlyn Elliot as Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer and Committee members Alan Newark and Shundell Durant.

The new Board is comprised of familiar and new members with better gender balance and a good cross-section with all clubs being represented.

In closing the president noted the new executive’s agenda would prioritise the initiative launched by the Ministry of Sport and NSC to develop a national nursery, a national junior competition and an elite academy for hockey.

There will also be a priority on hockey trying to establish the first artificial pitch in Guyana as it remains the only hockey-playing nation in the region.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

RHTYSC, BCB honour Ministers Croal and Rodrigues MINISTERS of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and Susan Rodrigues, were earlier this week honoured by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) and the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB).

"Both of you are positive examples that we would be delighted to have our young cricketers in the Ancient County use as role models. We are seeking to develop a culture of hard work, dedication, discipline and both of you are perfect examples of these. The two organisations I am involved in, would like to honour you as positive role models."

Those were the words of BCB President and Secretary/ CEO of RHTYSC MS Hilbert Foster at a ceremony at the St Francis Centre.

The RHTYSC presented both ministers with its Dolphin

others to emulate.

The Senior Minister hailed the outstanding leadership of Foster and urged him to uphold the good work he was doing.

Noting that sports was a vital part of nation-building, Minister Croal spoke on the importance of team unity, discipline and a positive mind.

In a special pitch to the club and BCB, he urged them to network with a cricket club in Region One, where he serves as the Patron.

Foster immediately accepted the offer and has committed to assist the club with cricket gear, cricket educational materials including the historic coaching manual and some coaching if arrangements can be worked out.

Minister Rodrigues in a passionate and well received speech urged the young cricketers present to always strive to be the best they can be. She spoke

Minister Croal collects the Dophlin Award of Excellence from Ravindranauth Kissoonlall

at length of the importance of an educational background, staying grounded and for aiming for the sky despite the obstacles along the way.

The Ministers expressed thanks to the management of the two organisations for honouring them.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday October 30, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 9 times (2) 1 time Today’s Quiz: (1) Who were the losing semi-finalists in the last Men’s T20 World Cup?

Minister Susan Rodrigues receives her Tribute to Heroes Award from BCB’s Dr Cecil Beharry

Award of Excellence while the Berbice Cricket Board handed over the Tribute to Heroes Award.

Among the other awards of the club are: the Zenith Award of Excellence for club members, Tribute to Heroes, Tribute to Law Enforcement Officers, Tribute to Medical Workers and Tribute to Retired Teachers.

Awardees have included Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Minister Charles Ramson. Minister Vickram Bharrat, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Bakewell CEO Rajendra Ganga and NAMILCO CEO Bert Sukhai.

The BCB Tribute Heroes award is given to outstanding past players, friends of Berbice Cricket and positive role models.

Minister Croal, who was born in the county stated that he has been following the outstanding work of both organisations and was very impressed with the high standards they have set for

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

RHTYSC Cricket teams launch 2021 Christmas Programme

THE twelve cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) last Thursday handed a set of much-needed items to the Port Mourant Public Hospital.

The club officially launched its massive 2021 Christmas outreach programme.

The teams - Poonai Pharmacy Under-12 and U-13, Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Vitality INC Under-23, Metro Female, Namilco Thunderbolt Under-21 and First Division - on an annual basis host a multi-million-dollar charity programme which includes donations to several institutions .

RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster, along with his deputy Simon Naidu, would spearhead the programme which would include the distribution of 1 000 food hampers, 7 000 toys, 1 000 special Christmas packages, 500 Christmas breakfast, cycles and schoolbags for less fortunate families.

The teams would also be making donations to fellow cricket clubs, senior citizens’ home and orphanages.

The teams are also hoping to host the seventh edition of the very popular Rose Hall Town Christmas Village in the compound of the RHT Primary School.

The Village if approved by the COVID-19 Task Force

Region Six Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain hands over donation of items to the Administrator of the hospital, Shaneeza Nabi. on behalf of the cricket teams

would be held December 22-24. The entire compound of the school would be transformed into a dreamland for kids.

The donation to the hospital consists of two tables, two office chairs and two blood pressure testing machines.

Foster, who has a close working relationship with the management of the hospital, had paid a visit to find out the immediate needs.

He stated that the Port Mourant Hospital had a special place in his heart and that as long as he is the Secretary/ CEO of the club, it would continue to support the government institution.

He hailed the professional attitude of the staff and had special word of praise for head of the institution, Dr G Sukhdeo.

Regional Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain handed over the donation to Hospital Administrator Shaneeza Nabi.

Ministers of Housing Collin Croal and Susan Rodrigues were both present at the ceremony and congratulated the work of the club in making a positive difference.

The RHTYSC MS, has over the last two years, made several significant contributions and sponsored three award ceremonies for the staff including doctors, nurses, management staff and porters.

Vaccine is a must to participate in Hope among the runs in drawn three GFF year-end tournaments THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will soon roll out in detail its plans to host three year-end football tournaments but one assurance asserted by president Wayne Forde is that all who seek to participate, must have taken a COVID-19 vaccine.

“I would like to be absolutely clear – only vaccinated players, officials, fans, and all other categories of stakeholders shall be permitted to participate in these activities,” Forde stressed yesterday at a press briefing, as he revealed the unflinching mandate being imposed.

Last year, GFF, in collaboration with the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, hosted the first sanctioned football tournament in Guyana since the pandemic struck in March 2020.

That tournament culminated on January 1, 2021, at Guyana National Stadium, Providence, and four teams contested.

This year the aim is to host a male Super-16 Cup, Futsal Championship Cup and for

three-day match

The GFF is plotting a return of year-end football

the first time, a Women’s Super-16 Cup. “It goes without saying that the past 19 months have been extraordinarily disruptive to football across Guyana.

We have been unable to fully experience the excitement and passion of the beautiful game, which has brought about an elevated sense of anticipation among players, fans, officials, sponsors, and the public,” Forde stated.

Noting it was premature at

this stage to say when precisely these events may potentially start, Forde indicated the Federation, in the coming days, will share full details of these tournaments and they will also announce the partnerships they are currently negotiating.

Forde said that majority of the Elite League clubs have indicated a willingness to get their players vaccinated as the federation works closely with the Ministry of Health to establish vaccination sites in the

GFF president Wayne Forde

nine Member Associations.

Forde said they will be guided by the Ministry of Health on the decision they would make as to whether persons will have to be fully vaccinated or it will be open for persons with at least one dose.

He further clarified that even if persons stand the cost of the PCR tests on their own, they still will not be allowed to play, noting that vaccination is mandatory to be part of the tournaments.

(CMC) Antigua - Shai Hope’s hundred was the highlight of the final day of the drawn three-day Best versus Best trial match between Jermaine Blackwood’s XI and Kraigg Brathwaite’s XI here Friday.

The stylish right-hander punched an unbeaten 100 as he pressed his claim for a spot on next month’s twoTest tour of Sri Lanka.

Opener Brathwaite lashed 78 before retiring, combining with fellow Barbadian Hope to post 87 for the third wicket.

Shamarh Brooks got 34 overnight and Kyle Mayers hit 26 down the order, while leg-spinner Imran Khan claimed two for 89.

Resuming the morning at Coolidge Cricket Ground on 73 for two in response to Blackwood’s XI 384 for six declared, Brathwaite’s XI benefitted from the enterprise of Brathwaite and Hope who dominated the session.

Brathwaite, picking up from his overnight 34, struck

Right-hander Shai Hope

ten fours and a six in an innings lasting 235 balls and 4-¾ hours while Hope faced 260 deliveries in a smidgeon over five hours and counted ten fours and a couple of sixes.

Once Brathwaite retired, Mayers joined Hope to add a further 56, the left-hander showing unusual restraint in striking only three fours in nearly an hour-and-a-half at the crease.

The second and final three-day match bowls off at the same venue on Monday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 30, 2021

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr was the guest speaker last night at the Welcome Reception of the 2021 GTT Guyana Open Golf Championships, which is scheduled for this weekend at the Lusignan Golf Course. Dozens of local players are expected to be joined by their overseas counterparts for the premier 36-hole event (18 per day). Details in tomorrow's edition. (Elvin Croker photo)

Philip Fernandes returns as GHB head

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West Indies scrape home after Russell holds nerve

President of the GHB, Philip Fernandes, says the new executive’s agenda would prioritise the development of a national nursery, a national junior competition and an elite academy for hockey.

Vaccine is a must to 27 participate in three GFF year-end tournaments PAGE

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Andre Russell picked up the first wicket for West Indies (ICC via Getty)

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2021