Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-Paper 22-07-2023

New Demerara River bridge set for December 2024 completion

-‘permanent works’ to commence by October, contractors tell President Ali - express confidence that all works will be completed on time

Time to ‘double-up’

- President Ali tells contractors working on critical ECD-EBD road link

- urges ECD road expansion workers to work with communities to find solutions to various challenges

Five EU countries to sponsor Guyana’s bid for Schengen visa-free travel

Gov’t removes 20 per cent tax on ‘cell’ phones - to foster digital accessibility

Skills mismatch, workforce challenges to be addressed - Minister Singh says at Labour Forum

Over 1,400 pounds of narcotics seized in the first half of 2023

Time to ‘double-up’

- President Ali tells contractors working on critical ECD-EBD road link

- urges ECD road expansion workers to work with communities to find solutions to various challenges

By Trina Williams

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan

Ali, on Thursday, informed contractors working on the important East Coast Demerara-East Bank Demerara (ECD-EBD) road link that it is time to “double-up” on the ongoing works in order to meet the deadline.

“You have to make use of this weather to get the complete soil preparation done,” the President told one of the contractors during a visit to the Ogle aspect of the US$106.4 million (first phase) East Coast to East Bank Demerara road link project.

Dr. Ali said that, given the perfect weather conditions, the contractors should start the establishment of culverts.

One of the contractors disclosed to the President that four culverts were completed and they are currently working on two more.

Since the progress of works did not meet the President’s expectations because it is not what was planned, in

order to get back on track, he told the contractors to start implementing a 24-hourshift-system for seven days a week.

Among several expectations of the contractors, the President also related to them that the round-about could be started early in order to meet the deadline.

The government intends to expand main roads and other essential infrastructure to accommodate growth in population and traffic.

Regarding the ECDEBD, which forms a major part of this commitment, the US$106.4 million contract was in June 2022 signed for the construction of the first phase of the critical link.

Once the entire link is completed, the new “road artery” will link the Eugene F. Correia International Airport with the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). Meanwhile, dissatisfied with the progress of ongoing road expansion works at Good Hope and Mahaica, ECD, President Ali, cau -

Scenes from President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s visit to assess the road works in Ogle (Office of the President photos)

New Demerara River bridge set for December 2024 completion

- ‘permanent works’ to commence by October, contractors tell President Ali - express confidence that all works will be completed on time

PERMANENT construction works on the new Demerara River Bridge are expected to commence no later than October this year.

During a meeting on Thursday with contractors and the officials from Politecnica, the Italian super-

mobilisation works are more 50 per cent completed at the La Grange, West Bank of Demerara project site.

According to the official attached to the consultancy firm, additional equipment and materials are expected to arrive on the worksite by the end of August, this year.

in 2-3 days. Once it reaches on-site, execution will start by the end of this month,” the consultant told President Ali.

Further, he said that permanent works— work that entails the construction of structures that will be in position for long-term— are scheduled to commence by

October we will be in the position to start the permanent work,” the consultant said.

In the meantime, contractors have been working on a 24-hour basis to complete all preparatory works in a timely manner.

A representative of the China Railway Construction (International) Limited (CRCCL), the company undertaking the massive project, expressed confidence that all works will be completed by December 2024.

“We are putting in 100 per cent effort,” the contractor said.

Meanwhile, President Ali told the team that they should make use of the optimum weather conditions to complete as much work as they can.

“We have set ourselves a very ambitious schedule …I’m very happy with the way the consultant is working, you're on the ground all the time,” the Head of State said.

The Head of State further reiterated the importance of the project, especially to the residents who live along the West Bank/West Coast and East Bank Demerara corridors.

He said that the project will play a major role in alleviating traffic issues faced along the two commercial hubs.

“We don’t want there to be any hindrance in getting this project completed…on time and within budget,” the President told the contractors.

Demerara River Bridge.

The new bridge is expected to be some 2.65 kilometres long with two carriageways and four lanes. It is a hybrid design with a high span having a cable-stay design, even as the vertical height of the bridge is to be constructed at 50 metres from the mean highest watermark.

visory firm that is involved in the project, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali was informed that

“Materials have already arrived, 1,900 piles already on the port will be leaving

October of this year.

“We will start permanent work as well. In September,

He added: “You have good weather now, you have to make use of the weather condition.”

In 2022, a US$260 million contract was signed for the construction of the new

This new bridge is said to have a design lifespan of 100 years and will take the place of the existing bridge, which has been in operation for more than 40 years, surpassing its projected lifespan.

Time to ‘double...

tioned engineers and contractors that liquidated damages will be employed if the deadline is missed.

Underscoring that contractors ought to take advantage of the great weather patterns, he encouraged them to start construction of the structures.

The Good Hope drainage and road-widening project have begun. Pipe construction and other road widening are being done at Nutenzuil to Clonbrook. At Turkeyen, preparations for the surcharge are still being made. This project is being carried out by China Railway First Group Company Limited.

DO THINGS

SIMULTANEOUSLY

President Ali, while addressing the workers on how they should be prioritising the project said: “You got to do things on the critical path [and] at the same time you have to do things simultaneously.”

The President called out contractors for sending letters directly to him regarding certain obstacles instead of communicating with the residents of the community.

“You also have to work with the community… we have to work with people to find solutions,” he remarked.

Emphasising the importance of accountability, the President cautioned contractors and said: “We are holding you accountable, in 25 months for the project to be completed,” adding: “We had enough good weather to get the sections of work that are dependent on weather, to be completed. So, after 25 months liquidated damages will be upheld.”

He also told contractors that due to the stagnated works, they have to implement a 24-hour-shift system. The Head of State expressed that he expects to see much more work completed.

“You have to get this design for this 5 kilometres not

only completed but completed and approved this week and I want to see massive works start on this 5 kilometres,” Dr. Ali said..

Construction works of the ECD road widening and improvement project from Belfield to Mahaica and Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau on the Railway Embankment began in April.

According to the Ministry of Public Works, work commenced between Belfield and Bachelor’s Adventure along the ECD corridor on April 7 and was expected to end on May 7, 2023.

The government advanced plans in 2023 to upgrade several major roads across Guyana as part of the overarching objective to significantly transform Guyana’s infrastructural landscape.

Over $150 billion has been set aside in Budget 2023 for the advancement of major infrastructural projects across the country.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, had said that the government has been reorienting the focus of the national budget to invest heavily in the things that matter for long-term economic growth, particularly as it pertains to addressing the country’s infrastructural gap.

“We recognise the importance of seizing the moment to lay the foundation for investment; we see this as the moment to ensure that we address historic infrastructure impediments to long-term economic growth. Notwithstanding emphasis on infrastructure, we are doing all of this in the context where we maintain a disciplined fiscal stance,” Dr Singh related.

The government has done this through a conscious decision to shift expenditure from being heavy on government consumption of goods and services, as obtained under the for-

mer APNU+AFC government, to a greater focus on government investment in infrastructure.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali was, on Thursday, provided an update on the ongoing works for the new Demerara River Crossing

Permanent works on the new Demerara River crossing are expected to commence by October (Office of the President photos)

ICT hub at Santa Rosa Secondary to get 10 new computers

By Cindy Parkinson

IN a move to bridge the technological gap between indigenous communities and the rest of the world, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo committed 10 computers to the Santa Rosa Secondary School in Moruca during his recent visit to the Region One (Barima Waini) community.

During an open discussion between the hundreds of attendees at the outreach, one resident related to Dr. Jagdeo that the computer programmes within the Hub needed to be updated, so that the people could better serve the people of the village.

The resident explained that the hub as well as the school computer laboratory are “very important” to them since it is the only facility where the villagers and the school children can

have access to the computer systems so that they can do their research and get their information from them.

Upon listening to the resident’s plea, the Vice President immediately reassured her and the rest of the crowd that the Secondary School would be given 10 more additional computers, understanding that they would take the precautions to care for them.

According to Dr. Jagdeo, “the children can use it during the day, and in the afternoons, the people from the community can use it as well. We have to make it accessible; we do not want to over-invest because we have a lot of other things that need to be done as well. I will get you a few more computers, but please work out an arrangement to utilise the hub as well as these computers.”

While the villagers are in

charge of the hub, Dr. Jagdeo also emphasised that the children of the community have adequate access to it as well.

Additionally, the Vice President also added that he will ensure the technical team visits the community, diagnoses, and updates the systems so that everyone can benefit and experience better services.

As part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives and livelihoods of persons living across Guyana, Vice President Jagdeo accompanied by the Minister of Housing, Collin Croal; Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Anand Persaud, and the Regional Chairman of Region One, Brentnol Ashley visited and delivered 400 part-time jobs, and 250 business grants to the people of Moruca on Wednesday.

In his address to the gathering, the VP said, “We are hoping that these initiatives will assist many people in their villages to improve their lives, and also that

250 people will receive a business grant each. Hopefully, with whatever they are doing, they can use the money to improve their lives.”

Vice-President Jagdeo also said that due to the failed leadership of the former APNU+AFC administration

and the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a decrease in employment.

“We started with a job deficit of about 80,000 people who were eligible for work but didn’t have a job... and that is why we promised to generate more

jobs. In Region Four, we have labour shortages; if you need a carpenter, a plumber, or an electrician, we cannot find that skill because everyone is building, so we are training people rapidly right now.”

Vice President Jagdeo listening to the concerns of the people of Moruca

David Patterson accused of indecently exposing himself

- as viral video capturing incident surfaces

ALLIANCE For Change (AFC) member and former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, is alleged to have indecently exposed himself.

In a video widely circulated on social media, Patterson is alleged to

have exposed himself at a location along the Railway Embankment Road, Kitty, in the vicinity of the Alliance For Change (AFC) office.

Though attempting to address the allegations through a brief post on his Facebook page, the opposition Member of

Parliament faced heavy criticisms over his purported conduct. In the video seen by this publication, Patterson appears to be heavily intoxicated as he urinated on the property.

He went away, only to return later and then proceeded to urinate in

close proximity to several drums that were on the parapet and a short distance from the spot where he had previously committed the act.

On this occasion, however, Patterson had what appeared to be a cigarette in his mouth and he was arguing with

someone whom he later waved his middle finger at.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the matter was reported to the police and officers visited the location, where they were able to obtain CCTV footage. We were also informed

that a statement was taken from an individual connected with the matter.

When contacted by this newspaper for a comment on the matter Patterson said: “Go to my Facebook page,” before ending the call.

Gov’t removes 20 per cent tax on ‘cell’ phones

THE government, on Thursday, successfully tabled a motion in the National Assembly to abolish the 20 per cent tax on “cell phones” aimed at enhancing digital accessibility and promoting technological advancement in Guyana.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, moved the motion for the “Confirmation of the Customs (Amendment of First Schedule) Order of 2023,” which was unanimously approved.

The decision, initially pledged by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali last June, signifies a strong commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that cellular devices become more affordable for all citizens.

This policy, which came into effect, aligns with the government's broader vision to create a fully competitive telecommunications sector, enabling greater access

to educational opportunities, business endeavours, and personal growth.

Dr. Singh said with the confirmation of this order, every cellular phone that comes into Guyana will no longer attract a 20 per cent duty that previously it would have attracted, and that immediately will redound to the benefit of the consuming public.

“It will quite clearly, and obviously result in reduced cost of importation of these devices

- to foster digital accessibility, Dr. Singh says

commitment to bridging the digital divide and noted that as President, he had already removed the value added taxes from data and mobile devices but has now gone further to remove the duties on the devices.

He said that people are doing degrees on phones and conducting business, and the government wanted to show its support.

cations sector in Guyana, ushering in a new fully competitive era with the telecommunications.

Telecommunication providers GTT, Digicel, and ENet had welcomed the move which made way for significant growth in mobile technology adoption, leading to increased connectivity, efficiency, and empowerment for its people.

and therefore could reasonably be expected to improve the affordability of these devices to the ultimate consumer,” Minister Singh told the National Assembly.

The policy, which took effect this week, is expected to make handsets more affordable for all citizens.

President Ali had reiterated his government’s

Within a few months of being elected to office, the President Ali-led government had liberalised the telecommuni-

As the country embraces the opportunities presented by digitalisation, it paves the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.

A Strong Economy with Debt Reduction

IN recent times, there have been claims and comments from some quarters suggesting that the People's Progressive Party (PPP) is mismanaging the economy. However, in a press conference held at Freedom House, the PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has firmly debunked these nay-sayers and shed light on the impressive strides made by his government.

One of the key achievements highlighted by Dr. Jagdeo is the successful reduction of Guyana's debt burden. He pointed out that during the 1990s under the stew-

ardship of the APNU (A Partnership for National Unity), Guyana faced a dire economic situation, with the country's debt reaching a staggering nine times the size of the economy. Over 100 per cent of the country's revenue was used to service this overwhelming debt, pushing the nation into a state of virtual bankruptcy.

However, the PPP took decisive action to tackle this economic crisis. Before the era of newfound oil wealth, the PPP had already made substantial progress in lowering Guyana's debt burden. By 2015, the nation's debt had been significantly reduced

to around 45 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Fast forward to the present, and the figures are even more impressive. As of 2022, Guyana's debt stands at a mere 23 per cent of GDP, making it one of the lowest debt-toGDP ratios in the world. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the sound management of the economy under the PPP's leadership.

Furthermore, Dr. Jagdeo also emphasised the government's responsible debt policy, shunning variable rate loans and opting for fixed-rate loans from reputable interna -

tional and multilateral institutions. This approach ensures stability and reduces the risk of sudden financial shocks.

Addressing the claims that the PPP government is squandering oil revenue across the country, Dr. Jagdeo clarified that this is far from the truth. The g overnment has made strategic investments in critical areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education. These investments aim to enhance the lives of the Guyanese people and create a stronger, more prosperous nation.

Additionally, Dr. Jagdeo confronted the mis-

leading narrative propagated by some Opposition

Members of Parliament (MPs) who suggest that the government is constantly borrowing. He reiterated that all loans are properly accounted for in the budget and are not new occurrences. Such attempts to distort facts only serve to create confusion and mislead the public.

Contrary to claims that the coalition government before the PPP's return to power failed to focus on enhancing Guyana, Dr. Jagdeo highlighted the significant investments made by his government in housing, regional hos-

pitals, schools, and various infrastructure projects.

In conclusion, it is evident that the PPP's management of the economy has been characterised by prudence, fiscal responsibility, and tangible achievements in reducing debt. The progress made in this area is commendable, positioning Guyana as a success story in the international arena. As we move forward, it is vital that we focus on accurate information and informed discussions to continue building a prosperous future for all Guyanese.

Guyana advocates stronger ‘co-operation and partnership’ at UN Security Council

AS Guyana prepares to take up its seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), stronger co-operation and partnership were outlined as the most viable path for global peace and security.

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, in his address at the closing ceremony of the UNSC workshop in Beijing, China, emphasised the importance of multilateralism and dialogue.

The Foreign Secretary, who serves as Guyana’s High Representative for UNSC Affairs, met with Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, Executive Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China,

will be guided by a firm adherence to the rule of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. Our engagement as a Council member will be aimed at contributing constructively to the mandates, and to enhancing the well-being of the world’s people.”

He added: “The international security landscape today is extremely complex, but these challenges can be overcome if managed carefully through firm adherence to international law, trust-building, and dialogue.

“In this family of nations…we each have diverse experiences and strengths and can bring these to bear in securing our common future.”

Mr. Persaud recalled that President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who will be in China shortly to meet with President Xi Jinping, has also emphasised the importance of constructive multilateralism and a commitment to dialogue and peace. Guided by these principles, Guyana will continue to engage with members of the UNSC. Before meeting in Beijing, the Foreign Secretary was in Washington, D.C. to meet with the Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian Nichols, and other top U.S. officials on several matters including those related to the UNSC.

who also addressed the workshop organised by China.

Mr. Persaud, in his address, said: “As Guyana pre-

pares to take on the important responsibility of serving on

the UN Security Council, we reaffirm that our tenure

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, meets with Executive Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Ma Zhaoxu, (Office of the Foreign Secretary/News Room photo)

The new Cold War: Part 1 – the Russians

THIS is part one of a series on the new Cold War between China and the US. I hope it does not reach more than three articles. I will not do the series consecutively. I have never done that in 34 years of newspaper commentaries.

I am currently penning a series on the political history of the Mulatto/ Creole class in Guyana and I haven’t done it consecutively. I have maybe two or three more articles to come in that particular series.

I believe readers get tired and bored after reaching part three of a series. It is best to intersperse the series with analyses on other topics. In each article in this Cold War series, I will devote an analysis separately of the Russians, Americans, then, Chinese.

At the conclusion, I will contend that the Chinese will win the new Cold War. Today, I will look at why I think the USSR was never a superpower in the sense of global hegemony and was no match for the USA. It was a myth and remains a myth that the USSR was a rival of the US for global influence.

After the end of the Second World War, Europe lay in ruins, and the USSR was terribly bruised by the Nazi invasion. The US emerged triumphantly because it had the atom bomb and it used it.

After the war, there was only one superpower the USA - but academia

and journalism referred to the international system as a bi-polar template because the world had two large countries – USA and USSR- and each controlled vast territories on the globe. This portrait of international society deceived you when you looked at it.

The USSR was no match for the USA after the 1950s and was destined to lose the Cold War. Here is why.

1- The USSR’s claim to global reach rested on two pillars. It controlled half of Europe and had the atom bomb. But the USSR had nothing more. Money was not there to sustain its eastern European allies – Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, East Germany, Mongolia, Rumania and Yugoslavia. In addition, the USSR did not have cutting edge technology in the 1970s like the US. In the 1980s the USSR’s did not have proper photocopy machines.

Despite a flow of anti-American revolutions in the 1970- Somalia, Ethiopia, Iran, Grenada, Angola, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, Nicaragua – the USSR did not have the capability to finance these countries (Iran was never close to the USSR) thus these revolutions were always on shaky economic ground.

I was the foreign policy advisor to the government of revolutionary Grenada and I knew firsthand how rejectionist was the attitude of the USSR

to giving finance and resources to Grenada.

The USSR was simply not interested in bankrolling Grenada. Cuba gave more to Grenada than the USSR. On the opposite side of the fence, the Americans were pouring in money to their satellites all over the Third World. In the period 1970 to 1980, Guyana, per capita, was the largest recipient of American aid except for Israel.

2- During the old Cold War, the USSR was never interested in international hegemony. This was never the intention of the USSR in sharp contrast to the British, then the Americans. The previous generation of the world, including this columnist, was fed on a diet of international relations literature that was American-centric and Eurocentric. We were brought up on a diet of Soviet appetite to spread communism all over the world.

The Soviets had no interest in communism in Indonesia and remained with its hands to its side when the communist party was being butchered by the army.

For a good description of how the Soviets let down Indonesia, see the 1980 Mel Gibson movie, “The Year of Living Dangerously.” While the USSR was not interested in pushing communist victories in the Third World and Greece, the Americans were insanely involved in overthrowing leftist regimes.

A few examples are Iraq, Guatemala, Greece,

presently is, its borders with Europe. Russia fears

and have no interest in interacting with the rest

Guyana, Chile, and Nicaragua. No book can describe the CIA’s overthrow of the leftist Chile government in 1973 than the 1980 Jack Lemmon movie, “Missing.”

The Russians’ obsession has always been, and

invasion from Europe and this explains its tight rein over Eastern Europe from 1945 until the USSR fell in 1980

3- The Russians are a maudlin, introverted nationality that just wants to be left alone

of the world. They don’t want to know about the world. It is this insularity that makes them racist against non-white people that they have hardly interacted with for centuries. Next- part 2- the Americans

Foreign Judgment Bill passed to help Guyana recover repayments from international companies

- create secure legal environment for foreign investors and businesses operating locally

THE landmark Foreign Judgement (Reciprocal Enforcement) Bill, which will help Guyana recover repayments from international companies if no local assets are available, was passed in the National Assembly on Thursday.

This ground-breaking legislation was presented by the country's Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., in April, and aims to empower Guyana in recovering repayments from international companies when no local assets are available for recourse.

“This was a manifesto promise of our government and since we assumed government in August 2020, our government has been aggressively delivering on

this promise. No doubt a modern body of laws and an efficient, competent and impartial legal system are … of a vibrant, thriving and democratic society. This bill is part of that menu of modern laws that are so necessary for economic development and investment, in particular, foreign investment.

“Litigation in any part of the world is expensive, protracted and time-consuming. In the end, every litigant expects the fruits of the litigation not only to be efficacious but also effectively enforceable as far and as wide as possible,” Nandlall said as he read the bill a second time on Thursday.

The bill was backed by the government ministers and members of A Partnership for National Unity

(APNU). It was read for the third time and subsequently passed by the National Assembly.

The passage of this bill is expected to revolutionise the landscape of cross-border legal judgments, allowing Guyana to seek recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

The bill applies to some 60 countries including all of the commonwealth countries, every English-speaking Caribbean territory, and other major jurisdictions in the world, including the United States and China.

By repealing the existing Foreign Judgment (Reciprocal Enforcement) Act, Cap 7:04, and the Judgments Extension Ordinance, Cap. 27, this new bill marks a

bold step towards aligning the nation's legal framework with modern global realities.

The driving force behind this legislation was a recent case in which the Attorney-General's chambers successfully obtained an ex-parte judgment against Trinidadian company, Davis Ecolife Limited.

Based on the ruling, the company has to repay the $6,159,325 deposit it received from the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) in 2019, for the supply of two prefabricated enclosures to house ICT hubs.

The said agreement –made under the former APNU+AFC government– had a completion date of January 25, 2019. However, Davis Ecolife Ltd. failed and/or neglected to perform the contract in accordance with the agreed date.

SIGNIFICANTLY STRENGTHENED

With the new Foreign Judgement (Reciprocal Enforcement) Bill now in place, Guyana's legal arsenal

is significantly strengthened to secure future judgments against international entities that may have previously eluded accountability.

The Bill establishes a legal framework to allow judgments from Guyana to be enforced in another country.

And once that company has assets in that country, Guyana will be able to recover the proceeds of the judgement in the same way as if the company had assets in the country in which the judgement was granted.

The process typically involves submitting a request for recognition of the foreign judgment to a court in the country where enforcement is sought.

This request must demonstrate that the foreign judgment is final and conclusive, was made by a court with proper jurisdiction, and does not violate public policy in the country where enforcement is sought.

If recognition is granted, the foreign judgment can be enforced in accordance

with the laws of the country where enforcement is being sought. This may involve taking additional legal steps such as filing a lawsuit, seeking an injunction or seizing assets.

With Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector and the country’s development making the country a more advanced place of business, it has been contended that updating the country’s archaic laws is necessary.

The bill is intended to promote international trade and investment by providing a more secure legal environment for foreign investors and businesses operating in Guyana.

It also reflects Guyana’s commitment to international law and the recognition of foreign judgments.

The bill will have significant effects on the legal system of Guyana, and would even help to attract foreign investment by providing a more predictable and transparent system for investors.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C.

Five EU countries to sponsor Guyana’s bid for Schengen visa-free travel —President Ali says

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that at least five European Union (EU) countries have agreed to sponsor Guyana’s bid for Schengen visa-free travel.

The Head of State made the disclosure while interacting with the media during a site visit to the Eccles to Diamond four-lane highway that is currently under construction, on Thursday afternoon.

“In terms of the removal of the visa, you have to have sponsoring countries, and I'm very pleased to tell you that we have at least five countries that have agreed to sponsor us to begin the process within the EU itself. But there's a bigger issue that we have to address, and this is our passports and what is required for future travelling,” Dr. Ali said.

The President related that for Guyana to be fully equipped to

gain Schengen visa-free travel, the country’s passport must be improved and upgraded.

“You know biometrics and e-passport are very critical for global travellers. So, we have to now work expeditiously on having our system transformed so

that we can have ease of movement and ease of travel,” the Head of State said.

In addition to obtaining visa-free travel status, President Ali also noted that Guyana is working on having the Schengen visas processed more efficiently

in Guyana. This, he explained, is an immediate need, and Guyana has received strong commitments from “at least three countries

that are willing to work with us on having this done.”

SUCCESSFUL EU-CELAC MEETING

While President Ali had initial discussions on Schengen visa-free travel during his recent attendance at the European Union-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (EU-CELAC) Summit 2023, bilateral meetings with leaders of several EU countries have facilitated the advancement of the conversation.

The Head of State said that the Summit was “fantastic” and that Guyana was also able to provide strong leadership in critical areas, especially in the areas of forest and climate change.

“We're working hard to position the forests on the agenda at COP28 and to take global leadership on this. Guyana would be hosting a side event at COP28 with the UAE, and we're hoping that the EU will be a partner with that also.”

He explained that Guyana has already received commitment from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the World Bank and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) to be part of the programme in which Guyana will present its leadership on the forest and a formula and strategy through which forests take a leading role on the climate change agenda.

Irfaan: President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

TVET training at GTI receives acclaim from teachers, educators

By Cindy Parkinson

TO ensure that teachers and students comprehend the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme in Guyana's schools, the Ministry of Education has arranged for eight weeks of practical training sessions. Twice a week, the Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) hosts sessions that delve into electrical wiring, carpentry/ joinery, and mechan-

ical subjects.

Speaking exclusively with the Guyana Chronicle, one of the representatives from the TVET Unit, Donald Sanichara, explained that the teachers need to be “acquainted” with the Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) level one.

According to Donald, “we cannot continue to have teachers in the system, who are producing level-one students but who themselves are not at the level-one stage.”

The aim, according to Mr. Sanichara, is to get the teachers trained in level one, and he also added that he’s optimistic that they will be trained ‘soon after’ in level two. He explained the teachers wouldn’t be as puzzled about the TVET course, but would have a full understanding of it after the training exercises are completed. He also added that the teachers would be in a better position to deliver more effectively to the students in the

classroom.

The TVET representative also stated that they are hoping to get a lot of the TVET programmes out to the educators so that it can motivate them and the students to recognise the value and the importance of the subject and what it has to offer. “We commend Minister Manickchand for this initiative. What you find is that some persons will take the pre-vocational knowledge and move on to another field, so we are

trying to help them see what they can gain and use it through their passion of teaching. What we also found is that most of our teachers were just teaching, but they were not given the exposure to what the subject is really about or what you can gain from it. In the past, it was basically chalk and talk; I am also asking that the teachers come on board with this programme. I know that some of them are scared of the subjects.

“While the pro -

gramme may sound challenging with its indepth record keeping and paperwork, every task is challenging at the beginning, but, after a one-year period, it will become easier,” Sanichara stated. While skilled workers in the past were predominantly males, the female educators said that they were happy to report that those days were slowly changing, not only with adults but within the school system as well.

TURN TO PAGE 11

TVET training at GTI receives...

Miss Shivanie Lall (Plaisance Secondary, East Coast Demerara), Miss Rochelle Baptiste (Golden Grove Secondary, DemeraraMahaica), Miss Raveena Reid (Leonora Secondary, Region Three), and Miss Marlyn Henry (North Ruimveldt Multilateral, Georgetown), shared similar sentiments in discussing the TVET training.

According to female teachers, high training standards ensure that they deliver the best curriculum to students, leading to high standards of outcomes. Despite being a practical subject, it also had an academic basis. Through hands-on experience, “we gained valuable knowledge and we expect our students to be just as thrilled.”

The teachers continued, “this training will

be of great help to us and the students, but, more importantly, we are very happy to know that we are also empowering our female students. In our days at school, no female wanted to join the Tech streams, but now we are seeing a change in that; it is not in large numbers, but we are getting there.’’

Agreeing with what their female colleagues stated, the male teachers added that the TVET programme is of greater importance in the school system now than ever.

“The TVET is a hands-on and or practical-based programme that Guyana is in need of now. We have an economy that is growing, and we have to ensure that we grow with it as well. As teachers, we are happy that we are given these oppor-

tunities so that we can pass on the much-needed knowledge and skill to them. We have a lot of opportunities in the different sectors, but we have to equip ourselves by having these initiatives more frequently so that we can mould our students to be academically inclined and skills-ready to be in the demanding workforce, ” the male teachers collectively agreed.

The male teachers are Sir John Russel (Plaisance Secondary), Sir Jermain Lynch (Ann’s Grove Secondary, E. C. D), Sir Sheldon Durant (Kingston Practical Instructional Centre, Georgetown), Sir Devendranath Rooplall (Hope Secondary School, E.C.D), Sir Randy Mingo (Bladen Hall Multilateral Secondary, E.C.D), Sir

Terry (Leonora Secondary), and Quincy Trotman (Charlestown Secondary, GT).

They further agreed that, “We would like to personally extend our heartfelt thank you to the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, and our President for having these initiatives in schools. We are also hoping and kindly asking that we can continue with

level two of these programmes, enhance our schools with updated resources so that our children can be better informed and taught. We know that everything takes time, but we are grateful that the government can make these sessions available for us. It is empowering, and it also makes us feel good knowing that we, the students, the community, and so-

ciety will benefit from this initiative.”

The teachers at GTI expressed their gratitude to the tutors, acknowledging their remarkable level of competency and thanking them for everything they taught them. “We are looking forward to continuing to work with them in the near future in level two and ever further.”

Skills mismatch, workforce challenges to be addressed

- Minister Singh says at Labour Forum

IN a bid to tackle the pressing issue of skills mismatch and workforce challenges in Guyana, a multi-stakeholders forum on Guyana’s labour needs was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Friday.

The forum, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation Diaspora Unit, brought together key stakeholders to discuss critical topics such as skills and manpower requirements, human capital transfer schemes and local content in the labour market.

While addressing the forum, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, highlighted the urgent need to bridge the skills gap and promote occupational mobility in the country's workforce.

Senior Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, while highlighting the prevailing skills mismatch, expressed concern over the contrasting realities faced by employers and job seekers in the labour market. He noted that the private sector often struggles to find skilled workers, while many individuals in the community continue to seek employment opportunities.

"How do you reconcile these two evident realities?" he asked the forum participants.

"How do you reconcile that on the employer’s side of the conversation you are being told they can’t get people and, on the supply side, the worker or the potential worker population is saying to you, they can’t get jobs?"

In response to the challenges, Minister Singh mentioned the government's robust investments in academic training, online scholarships, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

The goal is to equip the workforce with the necessary skills to meet industry demands and close the skills gap.

However, he explained

the need for collaboration with the private sector to effectively address this issue.

The Minister said that they are open to working with the private sector to resolve the skills gap and further stated that ‘occupational mobility’ has to be addressed.

Minister Singh noted that there are places in Guyana where people are raised to believe that they are supposed to have an office job, and if they do not, they have failed in life.

He added that, far too often, people are unwilling to practise occupational mobility, which is a practice they have to break.

Minister Singh said that they have to encourage people to be more mobile, occupationally flexible, willing to change course, willing to acquire new skills, and willing to go where the jobs are.

“Part of this is communication too. Part of this is explaining to people where the opportunities are and what the opportunities pay, de-stigmatising this kind of work,” he related.

He added that the location of jobs also poses a major issue within the labour workforce, as often where the jobs are, is not necessarily where the jobless persons are situated.

Minister Singh said that there are small solutions to this issue, such as providing a shuttle bus to help workers get to work.

Meanwhile, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, said that with the building of roads, sea defences, and other projects, skills are needed to get the work down.

“With hotels under construction, obviously you would need skills in the hospitality sector, and also we will need a supply chain to ensure that those hotels are adequately serviced whether it is with food, and all the other amenities,” he explained

The minister said that the government needs more skilled, equipped, and trained

persons in Guyana.

He mentioned that the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme and the expansion of TVET through the Ministry of Education, are to ensure that there is no shortage of skilled workers within the country.

He said that with the continuous development and expansion throughout each sector of Guyana, there is never enough labour.

With ongoing expansions in the health and aviation sectors, Minister Edghill said that the demand for professionals such as pilots, engineers, and nurses is on the rise.

As such government is currently seeking to create an environment where job seekers are equipped with the necessary skills to meet the demands of the evolving job market.

“There is a great need in every sector and how can we get this done, in terms of solving the labour situation?” he asked.

Minister Edghill, however, recommended that there be more investments at the secondary level.

“We have the business streams, we have the science streams and we need to have the engineering and other technical vocational streams…not everybody is going to be a lawyer or pilot, we need more people to build out,” he explained.

Further, he suggested that a centre be set up for employment purposes because companies not only need permanent workers but temporary workers as well.

“... we have to find a way to pool all of our young men and our young women who are looking for work… Maybe we need to set up some centres so that people could actually show up…you need temporary workers as well as you need permanent workers,” the minister said.

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

Sustainable housing community, eco-lodge centre for EBD corridor

the crop that will repay loans. We are going to put solar panels on top

of it to help with their power during the day,” the President said.

Works on this project are expected to

TURN TO PAGE 14

IN revolutionising Guyana’s infrastructural landscape, a first-of-its-kind sustainable housing community and ecolodge centre will be developed along the East Bank Demerara (EBD) corridor.

This was announced by President, Dr, Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, during an inspection of

ongoing road works in the area.

He related that the new housing design will target young, low-income earners. Already, some 20 acres of land have been set aside for the sustainable housing community aback of Diamond, EBD.

The Head of State related that the community will feature a futur-

istic greenhouse which will allow residents to produce their own food, specifically high-valued crops. The community, he anticipates, will be powered solely by solar panels.

“Young low-income homeowners are going to live within that plot; they are going to do high valued crops, and they are going to sell

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali interacting with contractors (Office of the President photo)

Sustainable housing community...

commence shortly.

“This is a new approach, and this is the area that I find tremendous joy in planning. That is a new design that you will see coming up in a pilot,” Dr. Ali said.

Meanwhile, the government is looking to complete the eco lodge centre by September for the influx of visitors for the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Cricket Carnival.

“We are going to launch the first urban eco-lodge centre, where we will have 30 wooden eco-lodges,” Dr. Ali said.

Meanwhile, as it relates to the ongoing efforts to complete the Eccles to Diamond four-lane highway, contractors have been given a new date to complete all remaining and delayed works.

The massive $13.3 billion project was expected to be completed by August; however,

contractors reported that bad weather conditions were among several challenges they faced which resulted in works being set back.

However, the President issued stern warnings to both the engineers and contractors that no further delays or excuses will be tolerated.

With Guyana heading out of its torrential rainy season and weather conditions improving, President Ali said that contractors

should implement multiple shift systems to benefit from the good weather.

“I’m looking for lights; we have excellent weather conditions right now. I said this before, we have to make use of weather opportunity days, and works that are behind. I am expecting to see lights out there, I am expecting to see systems in place for at least three-shift systems. This is not only the contractors; this

is the engineers that I have a problem with, who are not ensuring the systems are put in place. I spoke about this on many, many occasions,” he added.

Contractors are expected to complete all works by September 10.

“We have enough experience now at hand to know what exactly needs to be done. All of you are working on major projects now; you know exactly what you’re doing when it

comes to managing your project within the changes in the weather pattern,” the President said.

He further cautioned that if contractors are unable to deliver within the time frame, penalties will be applied.

“Anything beyond the new dates, liquidated charges will be applied; anything beyond this date is not justifiable,” he said sternly.

Belmont man busted with $1.3M worth of cocaine

A 52-year-old man was arrested on Thursday after he was busted with $1.3 million worth of cocaine at Belmont squatting area, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara.

According to a release from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), Suresh Persaud, is current-

ly in custody assisting with investigations.

On the date in question, CANU Officers conducted an operation at a location in the Belmont squatting area.

“A subsequent search of the premises led to the discovery of several parcels of a whitish substance

Over 1,400 pounds of narcotics seized in the first half of 2023

THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) has reported a significant achievement in its fight against drug trafficking for the first six months of 2023, with just over 1,493 pounds of narcotics being seized.

suspected to be cocaine in the possession of a male who was present at the location,” the release highlighted.

Persaud was arrested and escorted to CANU Headquarters with the suspected narcotic. The narcotic tested positive for cocaine amounting to approximately 1.216 kg (about 2.7 lbs.), with a street value of approximately $1.3 million. Investigations are still ongoing.

According to the midyear statistical report released by CANU, from January to June, 2023, 677.40 kilogrammes of narcotics consisting of 662.40 kgs of cannabis, 14.80 kgs of cocaine, 10 grammes of hashish and 90 grammes of ecstasy were seized

Additionally, CANU confiscated four firearms and a total of 1,087 ammunition from a diverse range of types.

The report also highlighted that CANU handled 30 cases, resulting in an impressive 27 convictions, demonstrating its effectiveness in combating drug-related crimes.

Meanwhile, it was noted that the unit has placed

emphasis on the areas of demand reduction and institutional strengthening through collaborating with various agencies.

School drug prevention sensitisation programmes have been conducted throughout the country while working on other projects that facilitate the development of treatment

and reintegration of recovering substance users.

The report said, “Great emphasis is also placed on international co-operation, liaising with international and regional organisations which contributes greatly to enhancing the country’s ability to combat the present drug situation.”

Suresh Persaud

The seized cocaine

Annual Caribbean Water Conference launched

- to accelerate change in water, wastewater sectors

THE 32nd Annual Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Conference and Exhibition is all set to take place at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, in Georgetown from October 24th to 26th, 2023.

This is said to be the second time that the conference and exhibition will be

that with close to 100 booths, over 300 delegates, 80 presenters and three high-level forums for Caribbean Ministers, this year’s conference will be like nothing seen before.

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud,

duction of any product that uses water.

“This is your opportunity to do business and expand beyond these shores, because of the international character of this event,” he said.

Dookhoo lamented that the staff of GWI who had attended such conferences in previous years had not adapt-

held in Guyana. The theme for this year’s conference is “Accelerating Change in the Water, Wastewater and Waste Sectors”

During the launch on Friday at the Marriott Hotel, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, stated that the government was honoured to have the event hosted in Guyana.

According to the Minister, it is an opportunity to find solutions that are sustainable, physically achievable that can be replicated on any scale while also strengthening capacities and forging new partnerships.

He added that it also serves as an opportunity for participants to be aware of the innovations within the sector that can facilitate the achievement of the goals.

“Guyana is as you know, on a rapid development trajectory. We are open for business, and we welcome your investments,” the Minister said.

The Housing Minister said

said that he was confident that the outcome of the conference will serve as a blueprint for Governments, industries and individuals alike.

He urged for them to work together to engage in constructive dialogues, share best practices and foster meaningful partnerships.

“Let our collective efforts become the catalyst for the Caribbean Transformation in Waste Management one that reflects our commitment to safeguarding our environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,” Minister Persaud said.

Adding to this, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Ramesh Dookhoo, said that GWI was pleased that the CWWA had chosen Guyana as the host country for the event once again.

As such, he appealed to local companies to exhibit at the conference and to showcase their local talents in engineering, the production of bottled water and the pro-

ed technologies on display and implemented them.

According to the President of the CWWA, Lieutenant Colonel Marlon Daniels, the organisation was started in 1991, by a small group of water and wastewater professionals from various countries around the Caribbean.

“Over 30 years later, the CWWA has grown into the largest regional grouping of water and wastewater and solid waste practitioners,” Daniels said.

At present, there are over 400 members in the organisation, from a number of Caribbean countries.

The exhibition promises to bring together hundreds of participants from the Caribbean, Latin America, North America and Europe and serves as an opportunity for participants to exchange information and experiences and gain exposure to cutting-edge technology, products and services in a very dynamic environment.

(second from left) Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud; Chairman of the Board of Directors of GWI, Ramesh Dookhoo and President of CWWA, Lt. Col. Marlon Daniels, with other officials (Delano Williams photo)

IRISH

11:20 hrs Cattaleya American Racing Tips

Saratoga

Race 1 Noted

Race 2 Paddington

Race 3 Strictly Taboo

Race 4 Husband Material

Race 5 Huntress For Hire

Race 6 Our Flash Drive

Race 7 Protective Race 8 I’m Very Busy

CANADIAN RACING TIPS

Woodbine

Race 1 Last Monarch

Race 2 Hank Olive

Race 3 Lady Brew

Race 4 Society’s Cat

Race 5 Airosa

Race 6 Trading Bay

Race 7 Queen Pigasso

10:45 hrs

Race 8 Lovalty

Leclerc leads second practice

(Formula 1) Charles narrowly led the way in an action-packed second practice session in Budapest, as the Ferrari driver set the pace ahead of the rapid McLaren of Lando Norris and the speedy Alpine of Pierre Gasly.

With running having been hampered

a tenth and a half behind in fifth. His former team mate, Yuki Tsunoda, was sandwiched between the French pair in fourth for AlphaTauri

Nico Hulkenberg was sixth for Haas, ahead of the impressive Valtteri Bottas in seventh, as both he and his Alfa Ro-

by rain in FP1, the drivers were quick to make their way out on a dry track for FP2 and familiarise themselves with the Hungaroring circuit – many also looking to gather intel on their new upgrades.

And after a frantic first 20 minutes of running that saw multiple drivers set the quickest lap, it was the slippery Williams of Logan Sargeant who held P1, with a time of 1m 18.836s, leading the Red Bull of Max Verstappen by 0.075s.

Following the first runs on high fuel, the teams strapped on a set of the soft tyres to conduct some qualifying simulation laps, and it was Leclerc who set the fastest lap of the day with a time of 1m 17.686s, leading Norris by just 0.015s.

Gasly was third fastest, with his Alpine team mate Esteban Ocon just over

meo team mate, Zhou Guanyu, in ninth, opted not to run the soft tyre in the session, meaning their fastest times were on mediums.

The Aston Martin of Fernando Alonso – who scored his first career victory at Budapest back in 2003 – slotted between the two Alfa Romeos in eighth and finished ahead of his compatriot, Carlos Sainz, who was down in 10th in the other Ferrari.

Championship leader Verstappen was back in 11th, although he did not do a low-fuel run on the soft tyre. However, his time was quick enough to keep in front of the Aston Martin of Lance Stroll in 12th, and the Williams of Alex Albon in 13th – who also set his fastest time on the mediums.

Charles narrowly led the way in the second practice session in Budapest

Wood cracks Australia second innings

( ESPNCRICNFO ) - Another brilliant , high - octane spell from Mark Wood cracked open Australia’s second innings after Jonny Bairstow’s blitz continued England ’ s batting rampage at Old Trafford.

England did all they could to buy themselves enough time to beat a poor weekend weather forecast and level the Ashes series

After Bairstow’s unbeaten 99, with 50 coming from his last 31 balls, had extended England ’ s lead to 275 , Wood’s pace was again the x-factor in their attack He had removed Usman Khawaja in his first over before returning deep in the final session to bounce out Steven Smith (claiming him for the second time in the game) for his 100th Test wicket and Travis Head to leave Australia tottering on 108 or 4

Marnus Labuschagne and Mitchell Marsh survived through to the close, but it had been a chastening two days for Australia who will need all the help they can get to retain the Ashes here and avoid a decider at The Oval next week, for which they surely wouldn’t be favourites

Bairstow had been stranded one short of a rollicking century when James Anderson was trapped lbw by Cameron Green to end a barnstorming last - wicket stand of 66 which left Australia ragged and rattled The ‘big three’ quicks - Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins - returned a

combined economy rate of 5.22 and for just the second time in Tests together all conceded over 100.

In theory , England had two-and-a-half days to make it count after scoring at an eye - watering 5.49 through their 107.4 overs In reality, though, they looked sure to have far less time than that to secure the win they need to take the series down to the

wire and remain on course to be only the second team to come back from 2-0 down to win. The forecast for Saturday remained exceedingly bleak while Sunday was not good - they will hope that, not for the first time, it proves wrong England batted longer than many thought likely - they were 189 ahead at lunch and 209 when the ninth

wicket fell - but clearly valued as big a lead as possible and with Bairstow carting the ball around the overs were being used effectively Bowling time, though, will likely be at a premium but the four wickets they have taken means they may not need a huge window in the weather They got through Australia’s opening pair either side of tea Khawaja and David

Warner had progressed reasonably comfortably against the new ball before Wood, in his first over, grazed Khawaja ’ s outside edge Khawaja went for the DRS after talking to Warner and the spike was confirmed

Warner fell for another middling score when Chris Woakes claimed him for the second time in the game After fizzing a delivery past the outside edge, he then had Warner in two minds and he deflected down into his stumps

Smith came close to falling second ball when he edged Woakes low to Joe Root at first slip. Root did not celebrate the catch at all, but indicated to the umpires he thought it was out and it was sent to the TV official, Kumar Dharmasena . After much rocking and rolling Dharmasena determined that Root had not got his fingers under the ball in what was another borderline decision in a summer where there have been numerous examples.

Smith and Labuschagne worked hard to navigate their way through the final session on a surface showing signs of some variable bounce , which had been on display for Root’s wicket the previous day

But , once again , Wood made the difference as he got Smith into difficulties with a short ball that he attempted to pull and could only get a glove through to Bairstow Unsurprisingly , England went at Head with the bouncer straight away and

it only took seven deliveries to pay dividends when he fended a glove into the gully, unable to get out of the line England had resumed on 384 for 4 after their Zak Crawley - inspired rampage the day before They did not quite find top gear during the morning session , although these things are all relative and 122 runs still came from 24 overs Australia delayed taking the second new ball and the softer, older version made strokeplay tougher work Stokes had signalled his intent early by charging down and hoicking Starc over midwicket, but he and Harry Brook didn’t completely throw caution to wind Stokes went to his half-century from 72 balls before playing around a delivery from Cummins to give the forlorn Australia captain his first wicket of the innings Brook’s fifty came from 80 deliveries before he fell shortly after Australia opted for the new ball after 90 overs, the first time they had taken it in the series, when he top - edged Josh Hazlewood to long leg Starc judged the catch expertly near the rope and as he ran in to his teammates, mimicked scraping it along the ground in reference to his denied catch at Lord’s Hazlewood added Woakes ( England ’ s first duck of the series ) and Wood before lunch , then claimed what will likely sit among his least - decorated five-wicket hauls when Stuart Broad skied a return catch.

CWI Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 three-day championship

Barbados takes innings win; Guyana leads by 212

CMC – Destructive spells from pacer

Raneico Smith

and

left-arm spinner

Nathan Sealy followed up solid batting and handed Barbados an innings and nine runs win against Trinidad & Tobago in the Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 three-day championship on Friday in St Vincent. Individual hundreds for opener Malique Walsh and teammate Jewel Andrew enabled Leeward Islands to take first innings lead against Jamaica on the second day of second round matches, while Guyana staged a fightback with half-centuries from Mavendra Dindyal

and Shamar Yearwood after they conceded a narrow first innings lead against hosts Windward Islands.

AT PARK HILL: Smith grabbed four for 24 from 7.4 overs, and Sealy snared four for 28 from 15 overs, ending with match figures of 10 for 65, and Barbados bowled out T&T for 110 in their second innings to clinch a two-day win.

Earlier, Joshua Dorne hit the top score of 91, opener Achilles Browne supported with 51, and Sealy completed a tidy all-round performance with 34, and Barbados were dismissed for 284 to claim a first innings lead of 119.

AT CUMBERLAND: Walsh struck 15 fours and two sixes in the top score of 147 from 254 balls, and Andrew made 126 from 150 balls that included 15 fours and two sixes, and Leewards piled up a first innings total of 345 to gain a lead of 48.

The pair led the resistance for the Leewards in the face of a destabilising spell of four for 26 from Deshawn James.

Jamaica reached 34 without loss in their second innings at the close, still trailing by 14.

AT ARNOS VALE: Dindyal led the

way with 77 and Yearwood made 64, and the Guyanese were 229 for six in their second innings when stumps were drawn for a lead of 212.

Tarrique Edwards was the pick of the Windwards bowlers, taking three for 72 from 26 overs to follow up his first innings five-wicket haul. Windwards have only themselves to blame after they were bowled out for 86, in reply to the Guyana first innings lead of 69.

Off-spinner Jonathan Rampersaud undermined the Windwards batting with five for 18 from 15.5 overs.

Mark Wood bounced out Steven Smith • Getty Images

THE Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) in a release to the media has noted that popular car dealership; Trans Pacific Motor Spares & Auto Sales along with Secure Innovations & Concept Inc (SI&C) have teamed up to sponsor the cash prizes of the 11 to 16-second categories of Tropical Shipping Drag Wars 2.0.

This Drag race meet, which is the second of the year, is scheduled for next weekend, the

29th (qualifiers) and 30th at the South Dakota Circuit, Timehri, with well over 80 cars anticipated to be on show. In fact, Team Suriname alone has indicated in excess of 25 cars while marquee sponsor Tropical Shipping has transported five cars from the twin-island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Mahedra Boodhoo, the head of the GMR&SC, in an invited comment, revealed that, “Drivers in the 11-16 second category

will compete for $100,000 in cash prizes, thanks to Trans Pacific Motors Spares & Auto Sales Inc. and Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc.”

“We would like to thank these two companies that have been long standing supporters of motor racing in Guyana and express our sincere appreciation towards their continued support and I look forward to their support in the future.”

Tropical Shipping Drag Wars 2 will take place on Sunday, July 30th at the South Dakota Circuit. Tickets are priced at $3000 for adults and $1000 for kids, making it an affordable outing for families and individuals alike. By offering accessible ticket prices, the GMR&SC aims to attract a diverse audience and create an inclusive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the excitement of motorsports.

Trans Pacific and Secure Innovations support Tropical Shipping Drag Wars 2.0 Kares One Guyana T10 Blast, Everest sign venue agreement

ORGANIZERS of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast and Everest Cricket Club (ECC) have inked an agreement which will see the culmination of the mega tournament on July 30th at the modern facility.

The historic agreement was confirmed at Everest CC on Wednesday between the club’s President, Manzoor Nadir and Co-Director of the tournament John Ramsingh.

The ground rental agreement secures the use of the club’s lush outfield and new facilities, which the organizers of the OGT10 Tapeball Blast plan to transform further to create a memorable experience.

“We opted for Everest very early in the planning because no other venue can give us the experience we are looking for. The outfield is excellent, making it ideal for topclass cricket.

At the same time, the spectator experience is second to none from anywhere in the ground, which will give sponsors great value for money,” Ramsingh remarked.

Some features available on Sunday, July 30, are LED screens for replays, sponsors’ boundary boards, individual dugouts for the four semifinalists, Kidz Zone and the GT Beer Party mound.

The tournament begins on Saturday, July

29, with 32 teams vying for the top prize of a whopping $1M and the specially handcrafted trophy.

On day one, matches will be played at the Police Sports Club ground at Eve Leary, YMCA ground, Queen’s College ground, the Transport Sports Club ground and the Guyana Defence Force ground. There will be the round of 32, round of 16 and quarter-finals which will see 28 teams eliminated.

On Sunday, the remaining four teams will have their semifinal matches live-streamed to the world with international commentators calling the shots.

Before the championship match, two celebrity sides, Team Kanuku and Team Roraima, will take the field for a feature clash for $200,000 donated to charity.

In his remarks, Nadir noted that ECC is pleased to partner with the organizers and His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali for the inaugural cricket extravaganza.

Nadir, the Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, stated, “The rental fees are mainly to maintain the facilities so we can have cricket all year round at Everest. We are a cricket club and to have this grass root form of cricket here is our pleasure.”

Spectators may also win instant prizes on the day of the final by participating in novelty events such as bowling, batting, catching and other cricket-related challenges.

Sponsors: Kares engineering, GT Beer, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Premier Insurance, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Guyana Tourism Authority, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal, Continental Transport Inc, Assuria, Ansa Motors Guyana, Star

E-Net, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, USA Cricket Zone, First Change Builders, Impressions, Jacob’s Jewellery, Beacon Café, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Zeus Enterprise, Hits and Jams Entertainment, Montra Restaurant and Lounge and Trophy Stall.

Action on both days begins at 09:00h while at Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, there will be the ceremonial bowl off on Day one.

Team SI&C’s Kong Supra

Team Trans Pacific Toyota Verossa

Rentals,

Speak of the National Assembly and President of the Everest Cricket Club, Manzoor Nadir (left) and John Ramsingh sign the venue agreement for the finals of the Kares One Guyana T10 Blast on July 30

West Indies responds solidly to Kohli century

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Virat Kohli made his first away Test century in almost five years, and Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin helped themselves to half-centuries, as India piled up 438 in Port-of-Spain. In reply, West Indies started slowly but solidly, with captain Kraigg Brathwaite and Tagenarine Chanderpaul responsible for the hosts’ first half-century partnership in the series.

But Jadeja struck 20 minutes before stumps to have Chanderpaul carving a catching to Ashwin. Brathwaite and debutant Kirk McKenzie, who is playing only his tenth firstclass game, then safely negotiated a tricky passage of play, with West Indies still 352 runs behind.

Earlier, Kohli looked like converting his hundred into a big one until Alzarri Joseph’s athletic intervention ran him out for 121. Jadeja looked set for a hundred of his own, but Kemar Roach removed him for 61. Both overnight batters fell in a space of six overs, but Ashwin marshalled the tail and took India towards 450.

The Queen’s Park Oval pitch - and the outfield - had slowed down even further on day two but that didn’t prevent Kohli from pinging the boundary with his punchy drives

One of those drives, which was crunched behind point off Shannon Gabriel, brought Kohli his 76th hundred in his 500th international match. Three balls later, Jadeja reached his fifty and celebrated it with his signature sword dance.

Another Kohli drive , this time off Jason Holder in the 92nd over, was among the contenders for the shot of the match. When Holder served up a half-volley on the stumps, Kohli had originally shaped to flick

it away through midwicket, but he ended up half-flicking and half-driving it past mid-off with great authority. There was another drive that he drilled so straight that it knocked out the middle stump at the non-striker’s end.

Jadeja was more circumspect, but he combined well with Kohli to steal singles and doubles from right under the noses of the West Indian fielders. However, the 159-run fifth-wicket stand ended when an uncharacteristic moment of hesitation between the wickets resulted in Kohli getting run out. Joseph swooped on the ball from square leg and capitalised on the chance. Soon after, Roach dangled out a wide ball and had Jadeja edging a drive behind.

Jadeja was originally given not out by the on-field umpire, and West Indies got the

decision changed on review. The replay that came up, however, for the TV umpire was of a different ball. During the tea analysis show, the broadcast commentators clarified that the correct decision was made despite the “glitch”.

Kishan, who had spent 19 balls on zero on Test debut in Dominica, started with more attacking intent in Port-of-Spain, advancing at left-arm fingerspinner Jomel Warrican and flaying the ball past him for four. After lunch, Kishan got a life when McKenzie dropped him after mistiming his jump at short midwicket. That error cost West Indies only four runs as Holder had Kishan wafting behind the very next ball for 25

After Ashwin had bedded in with back-toback drives off Gabriel, West Indies’ quicks

peppered him with short balls. But Ashwin used the bounce to his advantage and created scoring opportunities. When Roach kept banging it short - but not short enough - outside off, Ashwin leant back and ramped him over slip for a pair of fours. He then brought up his fifty with a slapped four off a similar short ball from Roach. With No. 11 Mukesh Kumar for company, Ashwin backed away and tried to rustle up more boundaries, but Roach knocked him over with his slower variation. Roach and Warrican finished with three wickets each before West Indies’ openers settled in.

Chanderpaul, in particular, had to grind for his runs in the early exchanges. He took 58 balls to score his first boundary and move into double figures. When Ashwin erred down the leg side, Chanderpaul put him away with the sweep. He then countered Mohammed Siraj’s bouncers with the hook.

Both Chanderpaul and Brathwaite were happy to leave anything wide of off stump on a track that didn’t offer much assistance to seamers or spinners. Brathwaite had glanced Siraj and whipped Jadeja for fours but wasn’t as assured against Ashwin who got one to drift past his outside edge from over the wicket

It was Jadeja who produced the breakthrough in the 35th over. After bowling 36 balls on the trot to Brathwaite, Jadeja had a crack at Chanderpaul and with his second ball to the left-hander, he drew a thick edge that looped to backward point. McKenzie announced himself in Test cricket with a six off Ashwin and then caressed Jadeja through extra cover for four to help West Indies end the day in a confident manner.

Police to face Army in KFC elite league final

A monumental showdown is set for tomorrow night at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Center (NTC) at Providence, as weeks of enthralling football action culminates in an epic clash of the disciplined forces’ football teams.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Football Club and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Football Club will do battle on Saturday, July 22, 2023 at the aforementioned venue for a chance to lift the spanking new KFC Elite League trophy.

The new trophy was curated by the Federation’s trusted partner, Brass Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry (BACIF).

The scenarios for tomorrow’s final game of the league will see the GDF, who currently hold 22 points, needing only a draw to claim the trophy. While the GPF, currently holding 21 points, must win in order to take the trophy back to Eve Leary.

With both sides of the rivalry planning to bring out their support in musicians and boisterous spectators, the match can be deemed the most anticipated senior football clash of 2023.

“We’re super excited, we are actually privileged to be apart of GFF, as always, we are like family. So, this is something that I’m super excited for. We’re going to

try to get as much people out there to ensure that this is one of the most fantastic games you’ve ever seen in Guyana,” KFC’s Marketing Manager Pamella Manasseh shared.

Meanwhile, Head Coaches for both teams and players got a glimpse of the League’s Championship trophy during a face off at KFC’s Vlissengen Road Headquarters.

When quizzed about the emotions in their camp ahead of D-Day, GPF FC Head Coach Wayne Dover shared, “We feel very confident, as a team going out on Saturday to get a victory, which is much needed. We will continue to prepare and the vibes in the camp is very upbeat. So, we looking forward to Saturday to get this result, to make the police the new champions of the Guyana Football Federation Elite League.”

“Well, oh, yeah, we sent a message in our last three games, we scored 20 goals and conceded one. So, that is a good intimidating factor for them. We hope that they study that a lot and not focus much on what they have to do so that we could come up on top,” Dover added about intimidation tactics leading up to the feature game.

Accompanying Dover was an optimistic Jermine Junor who described what a first Elite League Championship would mean to the policemen

“It would mean a lot,” Junor said, “Well, everybody is very happy about this game, first of all, because it’s the first time that Police Football club in Elite League, could be the champions. And we’re sticking to

our guns, in terms of the preparation and everything because everything is going well right now in the camp.”

On the other hand, it was cool, calm and collected on the GDF side.

Captain Kenard Simon responded to inquiries about tomorrow’s game, asking, “Big game?”

Simon further stated, “Well, the feelings in the camp right now is normal. You know, everybody is just focused on what we have to do on Saturday, what we came in the league to do and that’s it, not a big game.”

An equally composed Head Coach, in Joseph Wilson, noted that it will be business as usual for the soldiers.

“This business as usual, with the Guyana Defence Force Football team, we always treat every game with the same kind of respect, with the same kind of energy, the same kind of focus. I have noticed that this game is being billed as a final, probably the final game in the league. And GDF football club, has been treating every single game, as our last game in our lives, that’s how we go about the business. That’s the winning mentality that we have,” Wilson remarked.

The clash is set to kickoff at 21:00hrs. however, the KFC Elite League action on that day will commence at 18:00hrs with a battle between Fruta Conquerors FC and Den Amstel FC.

Kraigg Brathwaite and Tagenarine Chanderpaul added 71 for the first wicket•AFP/ Getty Images

GFF President Wayne Forde collects the KFC GFF elite league trophy from KFC’s Pamela Manasseh

President meets NRA

–– Discussions on progress of the sport commenced

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali met with executive members of the Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA) on Friday afternoon at

State House.

During the meeting, the Head of State was presented with the West Indies Short Range Trophy that the

GNRA won in May 2023, in Antigua after competing against teams from Barbados, Antigua, Jamaica and Canada.

The President was also presented President Ali and the GNRA also engaged in discussions about further developing the sport.

Dr Irfaan Ali examines the West Indies Short Range Trophy in the presence of NRA executive member Dylan Fields

President Ali and the GNRA engaged in discussions about developing the sport

Dr Irfaan Ali collects his personalised team shirt