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Busted are Michael Emmanuel Ude, 33, of Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, and Gift Obioha, 26, of Laing Avenue, Georgetown.
CANU, in a release to the
media, stated that on the day in question, while performing duties at the Guyana Post Office Corporation,
he was arrested and escorted to CANU Headquarters along with cocaine, which was later weighed and
agents intercepted Ude who was attempting to post a box containing several items.
A subsequent search of the box, conducted in the presence of the said individual, led to the discovery of a quantity of cocaine. As such,
amounted to 1.1lbs (482g), which has a street value of $400,000.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Obioha. They remain in custody assisting with the investigations.
a week. He left home on February 12. His sister Diane Stoll told this publication that he would not venture out to work in other locations, due to an illness. However, her brother was approached by an acquaintance to work in the said backdam.
“For the past 10 years, he has worked at home. He is a farmer. Due to this sickness, he doesn’t go to the interior, but a boy from Charity carry him into the interior on Sunday,” the woman shared.
Missing: Ravin Stoll
Just over a week after 30-year-old farmer Ravin Stoll left to work at Big Hope backdam in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), he has been reported missing by his family.
Stoll, of Grant New Port, Pomeroom River, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), has been missing for over
She recalled receiving a call about one week ago, informing her that he was missing from his work operations. His clothes and other belongings were still at the site.
“Since he left, we were made to understand that he has been missing from the camp, because his bag and clothes are still in the camp,” she said.
On Thursday, Police officers ventured into the backdam in order to investigate the details surrounding Stoll’s disappearance.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, February 24 –20:15h-21:00h and Saturday, February 25 – no retraction.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, February 24 –06:50h-08:20h and Saturday, February 25 – 07:25h-08:55h.
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Thundery showers are expected in the day and at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North North-Easterly to North-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 07:18h and 19:40h reaching maximum heights of 2.70 metres and 2.61 metres.
Low Tide: 13:14h reaching a minimum height of 0.51 metre.
However, he noted that of the 20 companies that have entered bids, at least half of them have already paid their fees to enter the Government data room.
“Ten companies actually paid the fee to get into the data room so…those companies we can say safely that we are sure about; …in terms of interest, we probably have double that in terms of companies reaching out to us for additional information on the bid round. So, I may not be able to tell you companies by name, but it is some of the major [International Oil Companies] IOCs around the world,” he stated.
Natural Resources
Minister Vickram Bharrat on Tuesday on the sidelines of an event stated that more than 20 companies have indicated their interest in buying oil blocks and have already submitted bids. These companies, he noted, are renowned in the oil and gas industry.
In light of overwhelming interest from the bidders, he noted that the Government is mulling an extension of the April deadline for submissions to allow other interested bidders to get their proposals in order.
This competitive bidding process will see 14 oil blocks up for tender – 11 in the shallow area and three in the deep-sea area.
“A lot of companies have been making requests to us to have an extension, because they have to prepare their proposal to send to us so that we may consider, however, it stands at April for now,” Bharrat explained.
Bidders are required to pay a US$20,000 fee that gives them access to the Government’s data room.
The sizes of the 14 oil blocks on auction range from 1000 to 3000 square kilometres (sq. km.). The round will be open until April 14, 2023. Evaluations and negotiations will follow, with a timeline for awards set in May 2023.
In addition, the Minister added that in a week’s time, Government will finalise the new Production Sharing Agreement [PSA]. “We have an international consultant from the US that is working on that and it should be finalised very shortly… I would say maybe in another week or so. We should have a few persons coming into the country from that team to work with our technical team to finalise the PSA,” Bharrat indicated.
Under new conditions, Guyana stands to benefit from as high as US$20 million signature bonuses for the deep-water blocks and US$10
million for the shallow-water blocks. Additionally, all future PSAs will also include the retention of the 50-50 profit-sharing after cost recovery; the increase of the royalty from a mere two per cent to a fixed rate of 10 per cent; the imposition of a 10 per cent corporate tax, and the lowering of the cost recovery ceiling to 65 per cent from 75 per cent.
Only recently, US oil giant ExxonMobil had said that it was awaiting the final terms of the new PSA before it makes a decision on bidding for the remaining oil blocks offshore Guyana that are up for auction.
ExxonMobil Guyana
President Alistair Routledge told Guyana Times that his company’s interest in the auction is fuelled by its successful oil finds offshore Guyana.
“Well, we’re always interested in new acreage. And clearly where we’ve had some success, that, you know, brings a certain degree of interest and we should be knowledgeable of it,” he said in response to a question by
this publication on whether the oil major would be participating in the auction.
According to Routledge, Exxon has already registered for the bidding around and is now awaiting additional information from the Guyana Government before making any decisions.
“We’re taking a look at some of the data [from] the Government that they provide [on] what’s available. We’re awaiting the final terms for the new PSC (Production Sharing Contract). And when we have all of that together, then we’ll be in a position to make a decision on whether or not we bid and what we bid for,” he explained.
Currently, the 2016 oil contract for the Stabroek Block signed between the ExxonMobil-led co-venturers and the then Guyana Government pegs cost recovery at 75 per cent. The remaining 25 per cent of revenues is spilt 50/50 between the Government and the co-venturers, while the country also gets a two per cent royalty from total revenues.
to be finalisedNatural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat Editor: Tusika Martin
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President Dr Irfaan Ali made a very inspiring speech to mark the occasion of Guyana’s 53rd Republic Anniversary. One of the many aspects of his speech is his statement: “My hands remain open for friendship… It remains outstretched to the proposition of unity, to the proposition of hope, and to the dedication of country above self.”
These are words that should appeal to our Opposition parties, more so the main Opposition A Partnership for National Unity – who fundamentally appears unwilling to perform those duties in accordance with the rules and traditions that have historically guided Oppositions to govern their countries, together with the Executive.
In the latter part of December 2020, if one can recall, former President David Granger had declined President Ali’s invitation to meet with all former Presidents to engage in “frank discussions” on national issues.
At the time, many were hoping that the Opposition would have used the opportunity to put national interest in front of party politics, especially considering the events post-March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, which saw an attempt to alter the results of the polls. Since then, the Opposition – from which AFC has divorced itself and now stands on its own – has been functioning in a manner which can be described as haphazard. As this newspaper has done and said before, rather than reinventing the wheel, we will quote extensively from a document issued after a seminar by the “Majority and Minority Parties in African Parliaments”.
“The Opposition in Parliament has a duty to offer voters a credible alternative to the Government in office to make the majority accountable. To be a credible alternative, however, the Opposition must also be ready to exercise the responsibilities to which it aspires on a lasting basis. In other words, it must have a programme which it is ready to implement. In a democracy, political life is enriched by the free competition of political programmes; it is impoverished by rivalry based on personal ambitions, which merely disqualifies it in the eyes of public opinion.
“Moreover, the Opposition in Parliament must show itself to be responsible and be able to act in a statesmanlike manner. It must engage in constructive and responsible opposition by making counter-proposals. In its action, the Opposition must not seek to hinder pointlessly the action of the Government, but rather endeavour to encourage it to improve such action in the general interest.
“The duties of the Opposition are by their very nature defined by political and behavioural rules; not by constitutional norms or parliamentary texts. The duties, therefore, do not require codification. What is required is for the members of the Opposition – like all Members of Parliament – to exercise their responsibilities with due respect for the Constitution and the laws in force. They must, of course, refrain from advocating violence as a means of political expression. Indeed, their action must be in keeping with a spirit of mutual tolerance and a quest for dialogue and concerted action.”
Having examined the above, we hope that the Opposition will see the need to put the country first, above political interests. One may want to believe that most of the Opposition’s supporters may want them to act in a mature and responsible manner.
That said, this level of goodwill by President Ali since taking office shows that he is ready to engage in political dialogue in a more structured and results-oriented manner.
We support President Ali when he said in his Republic Anniversary speech: “Today we stand diverse and beautiful! Shaken but not fallen! Tested but not defeated! The trials of the past can either keep us in its wounds that refuse to heal and lay only an unsettled path, or can strengthen us to a resolute future - where we can remove those wounds, heal the pain, celebrate the victory of the trials, and renew our spirits in the oneness of a country and land that brings with it the glory of prosperity - the beauty of unity and the success of hard work.”
Guyana wins today.”
Guyanese from all walks of life in their creative costumes braved downpours to revel in this year’s costume and float parade in observance of Guyana’s 53rd Republic Anniversary, which was celebrated under the theme, “Mixing and Mashing as one Guyana.”
Although the event was off to a late start, thousands of citizens gathered to witness the parade along the route.
The celebration embodied the true Guyanese culture as the revellers danced their way through the streets to blasting Soca music from afar, jumping and waving the Golden Arrowhead.
While the public had to wait until the afternoon hours to catch their first, real glimpse of the parade in rhythmic motion, a brilliant white, double-decker truck made its way up Church Street first.
The Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry was most fit-
ting to lead off the parade and the subject Minister, a drenched Charles Ramson Jr, waved his Golden Arrowhead happily, as he passed adoring citizens.
In responding to questions about the unifying power of the Mashramani holiday, he stated: “We haven’t had a Mashramani since 2020 because of COVID but I’m so happy I had the opportunity to lead this, because I get to see how elaborate this process is, but how important it is too, because it helps us to find the moments and events where we can knit together as a country, together we are unstoppable.”
Further down Church Street, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips had employed the services of a raincoat, but
as ever and so we’re mixing and Mashing 2023,” a beaming Phillips said.
Talking about the telecommunications float, which was adorned in royal blue and gold, Phillips added, “It’s all about energy, people-centred development, [Information and Communications Technology] ICT {connectivity}, that’s what we’re here for.”
Meanwhile, an appreciation for Mashramani’s unifying powers was also expressed by Opposition Member of Parliament, Ganesh Mahipaul, who, along with his colleagues, gyrated and greeted patrons along the route.
“It’s good to be out here, the energy is real,” Mahipaul told this publication.
“I am happy to see everybody out here. Today is a day ‘bout dropping all political tools and just coming out and celebrating our Mashramani. It’s something we have to be very happy about and we’re pleased to be here mingling with our people and we hope to show that we have to be working together to go places and move this country forward.”
“I can’t explain the feeling, because words can’t describe it. It’s amazing,” Ramson Jr told <<<Guyana Times>>>. “The main thing for us is to be able to celebrate the country. Yeah, we want to win, but I think
he was by no means allowing the weather to dampen his mood.
“This is ideal weather for Mashramani. There’s no sunshine, the rain finish falling, the place as cool
The celebration brought joy to the faces of many Guyanese, old and young, who finally after the threeyear hiatus had the opportunity to take part in all the energetic, festive, and zestful activities associated with Mashramani.
Medical Assistance
Team (LAMAT) from the United States Southern Command is currently in Guyana providing surgical and dental assistance to citizens in need. The mission commenced on February 20 and will end on March 3 and is expected to perform 80 surgeries and dental services.
US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah Ann-Lynch, during a ceremony to welcome the team, shared that the intent of the LAMAT mission is to assist medical professionals in Guyana to provide surgical and dental treatment to patients selected by the Health Ministry.
“The team, composed of United States Army and Air Force medical professionals, are equipped to conduct surgeries and provide dental treatments…we expect that the team will perform something like 80 surgeries and 200 dental services, those figures may change as the weeks go on,” Lynch explained.
Ambassador, the US has recently donated some self-generating oxygen tanks to Guyana, which will be of great benefit to the hinterland communities throughout the country.
“That’s really important for the hinterland communities so that they don’t have to send patients back to Georgetown, so they can get some of their services out in rural Guyana,” she noted.
Additionally, Advisor to the Health Ministry, Dr Leslie Ramsammy announced that healthcare facilities all across Guyana will soon see rapid upgrades, adding that soon hospitals in Guyana would not look any different from some of the best in the United States.
nine days, the team is expected to complete over 150 additional procedures.
nuity of care following all surgical procedures.
She added that over the years, the US has partnered with Guyana to provide a variety of relief to the populace.
“The US has partnered with the Government of
Lynch and members of the LAMAT interacting with medical personnel at the GPHC Guyana in a number of health areas, from fighting the HIV/ AIDS epidemic through the President’s Emerge Plan for AIDS Relief…(PEPFAR) to the tune of about US$189 million of relief, to providing COVID assistance through donating equipment, supplies, and more than 350,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine,” Lynch highlighted.
Dear Editor, Guyana is my home, all 215,000 square kilometres of it; I will cherish this for the rest of my life, Amen. I will serve and uphold all its virtues wherever I go. I love my country, and I will shout it from the mountain tops as I tell our story. And so, on this anniversary of our republic, I salute you, Dear Guyana.
It has not been easy for this nation these years following our freedom from colonial rule. Certainly, we've come through the floods and burned through the fire. Ours was, and still is, a fiery trial and tribulation, but through it all we're still here, kept by The Almighty.
Now, we are a pretty young nation, well on course to becoming let's say a Second World country, due to our inherited blessings. We are blessed with the natural resources on this piece of earth, with oil, "sweet crude" as ExxonMobil puts it, which is found in our nation's waters offshore.
It was a blessed day when oil was discovered here, because it means that we are going onward, upward, may we ever go, to
higher heights in our development. But wait a minute, did I say a blessing, and not a curse? Did we stop to consider it a curse, "cursed oil" if I should add?
Because from the moment we began using the proceeds of what the Mighty Father has blessed us with, in came the naysayers and pseudo priests, priestesses, and prophets of doom, speaking every negative word you can find in the book. These people have crawled out from under every rock and crevice under heaven, it is like we here in Guyana have killed Christ!
But we are not in any way intimidated by their negatives. We will continue on our progressive trajectory until our mission is complete. We subscribe to the principle that "What the enemy planned for evil, God has turned it for our good." We will not flag nor fail in our resolve to get the work of development done. So, let us count our blessings one by one, and it will surprise you what God has done. Amen and Amen!
Respectfully,
Neil AdamsAccording to the
“The West Demerara Hospital is about to be replaced by a new hospital; the Linden Hospital and the New Amsterdam Hospital will all be replaced by new hospitals. [On] Some, construction work has begun; [on] others, the design work will soon start, that includes GPHC [Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation],” Dr Ramsammy announced.
The LAMAT has conducted an average of 60 procedures since their operations commenced. Within the next
LAMAT is a medical team composed of approximately 29 US Air Force and Army medical and dental professionals and support staff, who have been providing free general surgery, emergency room care, and dental care at the Georgetown Public Hospital and West Demerara Regional Hospital.
LAMAT operations have been coordinated with the Health Ministry and hospital medical directors to take advantage of additional operating room capacity without displacing medical providers. The US medical professionals are working in tandem with local doctors to ensure conti-
The team brings with it the medicines and supplies necessary for the operations and will leave surplus supplies with the hospitals. Overall, approximately US$225,000 of supplies are being donated to medical facilities.
Medical patients are selected in coordination with hospital medical directors, based on the types of surgeries and procedures the US medical team is certified to perform; primarily GI surgeries such as hernias and cyst excisions. The US dental team are focusing on treating underserved populations, concentrating on cleaning, fillings, extractions, and preventative care.
With the aim of further strengthening partnerships in a vast array of sectors, including petroleum, agriculture, renewable energy and capacity building, among others, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo held extensive discussions with his Indian counterpart, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar.
The Guyanese VP is currently in India on an official visit from February 20 to 25, 2023 at the invitation of the Vice President of India. Jagdeo is accompanied by Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, and a high-level Government and business delegation from Guyana.
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs of India, following the meeting in New Delhi on Thursday, the two leaders acknowledged the age-old strong bilateral ties between their countries, and reiterated their commitment to further strengthen India-Guyana relations.
“The two leaders appreciated the close and cordial relations shared by India and Guyana based on strong people-to-people ties, economic linkages, and commonalities of approach on multilateral issues. Both leaders agreed to continue to work on strengthening the bilateral partnership in various sectors, including petroleum and natural gas, agriculture, agro-processing, education, healthcare, capacity building, ICT, renewable energy, and cli-
mate change,” the missive detailed.
Earlier this week, VP Jagdeo met with the Minister of Agriculture in India, Narendra Singh Tomar, to discuss mutual areas of cooperation and other matters.
According to Minister Tomar, “Delighted to meet Hon. . Bharrat Jagdeo, Vice President of Guyana [on Tuesday] and discussed many agriculture-related issues between the two countries. This meeting will further strengthen the agri-
cultural trade between the two countries.”
Also on Tuesday, the Guyanese Vice President met with Indian Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who said he is pleased with the efforts to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and development partnership between Guyana and India.
“Delighted to meet Hon. Bharrat Jagdeo, Vice President of Guyana, during his India visit. Discussed our historical relationship
and greater opportunities in contemporary partnership, especially in trade, energy, agriculture, skills, and people-to-people ties,” Minister Jaishankar said after their engagement.
The Ministry further disclosed in the statement that Vice President Jagdeo is expected to call on the President of India, Her Excellency Shrimati Droupadi Murmu, today. He will also call on India’s Ministers of Health and Family Welfare, Chemicals and Fertilizers, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and Housing and Urban Affairs.
As part of his visit to India, VP Jagdeo is also participating in the World Sustainable Development Summit being held by TERI (The Energy Research Institute) in New Delhi from February 22 to 24.
He spoke at the opening ceremony on Wednesday, where he sounded a call for more global financial pledges to climate change initiatives being undertaken
especially by small developing countries such as those in the Caribbean region, which need funding in order to achieve sustainable development.
“Many developing countries will never achieve sustainable development goals unless they have the financing to do that…Now small countries do not need only climate finance, they need a reform of the global financial system for them to achieve sustainable development. We’re not talking about just sustainability of ecosystems for them, we’re talking about the sustainability of the country themselves and their future wellbeing…because right now it’s clear that we are not going to achieve any of the targets. We can’t mask this over, the pledges are too small to achieve the 1.5 or even two degrees raise above pre-industrial level,” the Guyanese VP posited during his address to the summit.
This visit by VP Jagdeo follows President Dr Irfaan
Ali’s official visit to India in January 2023 as the Chief Guest of the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. According to the External Affairs Ministry, these high-level exchanges between India and Guyana reflect “new energy and momentum in bilateral relations.”
Coming out of President Ali’s visit to India, there are a number of areas and opportunities not only for Government-toGovernment collaboration, but also Private Sector to Private Sector collaboration. Consequently, two working groups are expected to be set up between the two countries to coordinate the necessary follow-ups.
During a press conference on his return last month, the Guyanese Head of State explained that the establishment of these two working groups was jointly decided between him and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said this body would include the Private Sector from both countries.
An 18-year-old woman has been charged with the capital offence of murder after her husband was stabbed to death on Sunday in the village of Macknab, Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).
Police in a statement have said that Reshona Moses, a housewife of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, appeared before Magistrate Chrystel Lambert at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court and was
not required to plead to the indictable charge for the offence of murder, contrary to common law.
Particulars of the charge allege that she murdered Anthony Shivlall, called “Davie”, a 27-year-old labourer of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast. Moses was remanded to prison until March 28, when she will appear at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court.
It was reported that on January 18, Shivlall and his wife were both at a birthday party for the teen-
ager’s grandmother at the woman’s home at Macknab, Lima Sands.
The grandmother, Bernadine Williams, told investigators that at about 17:00h, the couple had an argument that resulted in the teenager leaving the party and going home. At about 02:00h on Saturday, the teenager returned to her grandmother’s house and asked for her husband.
According to Williams, she told her granddaugh ter that Shivlall was inside the lower flat of the house. The woman said her grand daughter went into the lower flat of the house, where she spent a while, which prompted her to make checks. Upon checking, the grandmother saw Shivlall lying on the ground and her granddaughter was over him.
“She was stabbing him with a knife to his chest area, causing him to receive injuries, after which she ran east of the lower flat, exited, and made good her escape,” the Police said the elderly woman told detectives. The matter was reported and the Police went
Your Eyewitness must confess he’s a sucker for patriotic displays. Some may knock the “nation state” as an imperial creation, to divide and conquer us “oppressed of the earth” – but hey!! – it’s all we got in this part of the world to rally around, ain’t it?? Without that flag and coat of arms and motto and all the appurtenances of statehood, we’ll just be a motley agglomeration of flotsam and jetsam that were dumped onto these shores!! And have never really jelled!
to the scene.
Detectives reported that they observed one stab wound on the victim’s left chest area, one stab wound to his lower right chest area, and one to his left hand.
Acting on information received, the Police arrested Moses at her mother’s house in Macknab. Police say the teen admitted to stabbing her husband. Shivlall’s body was escorted to the Suddie Public Hospital, where it was formally pronounced dead on arrival.
So, your Eyewitness stayed up to midnight – long past his bedtime!! – to see our Golden Arrowhead raised against the backdrop of those “bombs bursting in the air”!! And was hit with that frisson of excitement, as always!! But the question that floated to the fore after all the inspection of the Guard of Honour and the other pomp and ceremony, was to his fellow Guyanese citizens, “Will you still stand with me tomorrow”?? The PPP seemed pretty sure: “We are optimistic that the radiance of the colours in the costumes, the energy in the stage performances and parades, and the overwhelming display of Guyaneseness will carry through tomorrow, the day after, and beyond.”
President Ali, who, of course, gave his charge at the flag-raising ceremony at the Public Buildings, was a bit more circumspect. He said, “My hands remain open for friendship; my hands remain open to shade the vulnerable, to lead the weak, to guide the strong, to embrace all of us. It remains outstretched to the proposition of unity, to the proposition of hope, and to the dedication of country above self.” He was obviously speaking to the Opposition, who seem stuck in the recalcitrant mode of their leader. He crudely refused to shake the outstretched hand of the President at a function hosted by – of all people! - the Plenipotentiary of the old imperial power!!
And even though it didn’t seem relations could sink lower than that, the Opposition can’t be faulted for not giving it their best shot!! Imagine, after a year of offering alternatives to squatting at Mocha, they accuse the Government of being “racist” – after encouraging four out of 37 squatters to hold out for hundreds of millions! Those four may just lose corn and husk in the end. But what does the Opposition care – they’re just playing to the gallery!! Then there’s the Opposition Leader aggressively pronouncing the dozen young men charged with terrorism for the Mon Repos mayhem “Guilty”!! So now he’s the judge and jury??
Anyhow, yesterday wasn’t a good omen for the Republic celebrations, when it literally rained on the Mashramani Parade!! Looks like we got a whole lotta work to do before we arrive at the nirvana of “One Guyana”! …and not filing
Back in 2002, Britain’s Tony Blair introduced the idea of the “Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative” (EITI) to encourage transparency in the global mining sector –including Oil and Gas. While there are now 57 members, the US withdrew in 2017. It supposedly signals to the international community that the operations in this sector are kosher. While your jaded Eyewitness knows it’s one of those “do as we say, and not as we do” organizations, that control us by having us jump through hoops, he accepts the line from the Desiderata: “grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change”!!
So the news that we - as a new oil producer in the centre of the O&G debate – just lost our approval from the EITI because we didn’t file the necessary paperwork for 2020 is VERY bad news. This will give leeway to those seeking to take advantage and cut more bad contracts, who must be rubbing their hands and chortling with glee!
President Ali has to roll some heads!!
…categories
Seems Monday, February 20 – three days before we became a Republic - was World Day of Social Justice. Your Eyewitness is confused. Wasn’t this delivered when we got Queen Elizabeth’s knee off our necks back in 1966??
The Government of India at its Union Cabinet, which is chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the signing of an Air Services Agreement with the Guyana Government to improve connectivity between the two nations.
According to the statement, this Cabinet decision was made on Wednesday. The Air Services Agreement will come into force after the exchange of diplomatic notes between the two countries confirming that each party has completed the necessary internal procedure for entry into force of this agreement.
It was noted that the signing of the Air Services Agreement between Guyana and India will enable a framework for the provision of air services between the two countries.
“The new Air Services Agreement between India and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana will provide an enabling environment for enhanced and seamless connectivity while providing commercial opportunities to the carriers of both sides,” the missive detailed.
Currently, Indians have a sizeable presence in Guyana and are the largest
ethnic group – about 40 per cent of the Guyanese population as per the 2012 census. Consequently, it was recognised that there is no Air Services Agreement between the Government of India and the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana at present.
In view of the growing aviation market and developments such as liberalisation of the aviation sec-
tor in India, Air Services Agreements have been signed with many countries in order to pave the way for more international air connectivity.
An Air Services Agreement provides the legal framework for air operations between two countries which is based on the principles of sovereignty of nations, nationality of carriers and reciprocity in terms
of commercial opportunities for the designated airlines of each side.
India and Guyana are signatories to the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention). The delegations representing the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana met in Nassau, Bahamas on December 6, 2016, during the ICAO Air Services Negotiations event where both countries had initialled the text of an Air Services Agreement for scheduled air services between the two countries via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The open skies agreements, according to reports at the time in 2016, will allow an unlimited number of flights to six airports in India: New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai. The new arrangement will encourage connectivity and passenger travel between India and Guyana.
While there is no imminent direct air connectivity between Guyana and India, the agreement puts in place a legal framework that may provide seamless connectivity to passengers and make
possible connectivity between India and Guyana not served by direct flights. The agreement will allow international codeshares including third-country airlines with Guyana, and removal of capacity restrictions in case of a codeshare with third-country carriers.
Only earlier this month, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) celebrated its 56th year of membership with the ICAO.
GCAA’s Director General, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field said that Guyana has steadily moved up the ranks of compliance in accordance with ICAO standards.
At the last audit, the country was adjudged at 77
per cent in compliance with the ICAO, while the global average was around 67 per cent. He noted that in 2022, the country was judged the number one State in relation to safety compliance in the Americas, which include South, Central and North America and Caribbean States. Further, the country stood at number two in relation to air-navigation services.
Guyana has already received praise from the ICAO President, who in 2021 remarked that the country was a shining light in the Caribbean and is being used as a template for the Region in relation to aviation performance and compliance.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
The sod was officially turned for the construction of a modern secondary school at Karasabai in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) to the tune of $1.7 billion.
The contract was award-
ed to Avinash Contracting and is scheduled to be completed in two years.
The project will be instrumental in providing more educational opportunities for students in the region and will transform the quality of their lives.
The modern school complex would feature 10 buildings including the main teaching block and allied lecturing facilities, modern science laboratory for Physics, Chemistry and Biology, TVET Centres, combined Home Economics and cafete-
ria area, teachers’ quarters.
The designs of the buildings were completed in November 2022 after a series of consultations.
Once completed, the facility will house and will cater for 500 students in the classroom, and 250 students in the dormitories. This means students will no longer have to traverse rough terrain daily to receive an education they rightly deserve. Students from Karasabai and all other neighbouring villages will have the opportunity to pursue a sound secondary education.
Students in the Karasabai subdistrict from communities such as Tiger Pond, Cracrana, Tsushima,
Kokshebai and Yurong Paru are currently either not receiving a secondary education or are being educated in
primary tops, secondary departments included in primary schools.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Today marks one year since Russia’s fullscale invasion of Ukraine began, and the world – including Guyana – is still reeling from the effects of that war, which has killed thousands and disrupted critical supply chains.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified a total of 7,199 civilian deaths during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as of February 12, 2023. Of them, 438 were children. Further, 11,756 people were reported to have been injured.
On the eve of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, roughly three-quarters of United Nations Member States endorsed a motion calling for “a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in line with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations”. The resolution essentially called for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, and a halt to the fighting. Moreover, the resolution reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s “sovereignty” and “territorial integrity,” rejecting any Russian claims to the parts of the country it occupies.
Guyana is among 141 countries that supported the motion, while China, India, South Africa, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and much of Africa and Central Asia were among the abstentions. The measure is not legally binding, but holds political weight.
Since the beginning of
the war, Guyana has continuously demonstrated its solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
In March last year, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, told the General Assembly that Guyana fully aligns itself with the statements issued by Caricom Community and with the declaration of Organization of American States (OAS) on the situation in Ukraine.
She noted the deep concern of the Government over the recent military intervention by Russia in violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, and called for an immediate cessation of hostility and a return to diplomacy.
“Guyana deplores the threat of use of force in the conduct of international relations, and urges a peaceful resolution of the differences that currently exist in consonance with the rule of international law and the provisions of the United Nations charter,” Rodrigues-Birkett told the UN.
Very important
But why is Guyana’s position on the Russian/ Ukraine war of any consequence? France believes every voice matters.
Non-Resident French Ambassador to Guyana, Nicolas de Lacoste, told <<Guyana Times>> during an exclusive interview on Wednesday that he had just met with officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International
Delivering the feature address, Education Minister, Priya Manickchand stated that the region is one step closer to achieving universal education with the construction of the state-of-the-art facility.
She noted that the school is intended to deliver firstclass education to students in Region Nine.
“We are very certain that once we do that, you will see your children excel.”
She further noted that hinterland education delivery remains a top priority for the Ministry and by extension the Government of Guyana. She highlighted that for the first time, the Ministry appointed an officer with sole responsibility for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development.
Local Government and Development Minister Nigel Dharamall noted that delivering education to the people of Region Nine has always been on the agenda for the PPP Government since it assumed office.
He highlighted that in 1992, there was one secondary school in the region, and it was in St Ignatius which
Cooperation, where they discussed the one-year anniversary of the war.
“…and I thanked the Guyanese authorities for their constant support inside the UN General Assembly in support of resolutions condemning the illegal acts of Russia against Ukraine. It is a very serious matter.
“Guyana’s support is very important…every voice counts,” he said.
The French Ambassador noted that it is important to show that Russia is completely “isolated” in its efforts, and that countries all across the global, not just one region, are against such violent actions.
ABCE
Meanwhile, Ambassador of the United States of America, Sarah-Ann Lynch; the British High Commissioner Jane Miller, OBE; Canadian High Commissioner Mark
Berman; and Ambassador of the European Union, René van Nes, issued a joint statement wherein they asserted that “Russia must be held accountable.”
“We all remember the fateful day when Russia’s premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustifiable full-scale invasion of Ukraine shocked the collective conscience of democratic nations around the world. But we also remember how the Ukrainian people inspired the world as they defended their country from aggression. Russia’s brutal fullscale invasion was a blatant violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity enshrined in the United Nations Charter.”
The ABCE diplomats also recalled that, in October, Guyana joined 143 other countries at the United Nations that stood up for those principles and against Russia’s assault on them.
“We commend Guyana for reaffirming the UN Charter, for supporting and co-sponsoring UN resolutions condemning Russian aggression against Ukraine, adopted on March 2, 2022 (A/RES/ES-11/1); on the humanitarian consequences of aggression against Ukraine, adopted on March 24 (A/ RES/ES-11/2), 2022; and on supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity, on October 12, 2022 (A/RES/ES-11/1).”
The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and the EU have since imposed sanctions intended to cripple Russia’s ability to finance the war against Ukraine, enact costs on Russia’s elite, and diminish Russia’s economic base. Export controls and airspace restrictions have cut off Russia’s access to vital technological inputs and atrophied its industrial base. To date, the international community has pro-
vided hundreds of billions of dollars in security, humanitarian, economic, and emergency assistance aid to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people since the war began.
The Ambassadors further noted that, “Our support for Ukraine and its people who are bravely defending their homeland is ironclad. Furthermore, we call on Russia to end the brutal onslaught against its neighbour. Russia chose this war – and the world is responding to hold Russia accountable for the atrocities it is committing in Ukraine. We want this war to end as quickly as possible – on just terms that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
A democratic, prosperous, and secure Ukraine is in the interest not only of the people of Ukraine, but also of the democratic nations of the international community.”
FROM PAGE 10
is more than 48 miles away from Karasabi. To date, several secondary schools have been constructed in the region.
Assistant Chief Education Officer for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development, Marti DeSouza related that the development in the education sector is no longer limited to the coastland.
He highlighted that the Ministry of Education has been working assiduously to close the gap between the coast and hinterland, and to achieve universal secondary education across the country.
Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock stated the construction of the secondary school in Karasabai has been on the agenda and is proud to see the project become a reality.
In addition, the village Toshao, Elvis Edwards expressed thanks to the ministers for listening to the concerns of the people and delivering on their promise.
In addition to constructing the Karasabai Secondary School, there are several other schools being constructed across the country.
1
…diplomats laud Guyana for its constant support
Indigenous migrants from Venezuela who have settled in the industrial area of Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) were gifted several 450-gallon water tanks by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Wednesday.
The CDC pledged to complete the relief assistance to the vulnerable group, which began with the distribution of food hampers and hy-
giene supplies.
Lethem’s Mayor, John Macedo, granted temporary access to a portion of the Rupununi town to the migrant group, which consists primarily of women and small children.
The group now has access to potable water, and as such, the Commission saw it fit to ensure they have adequate water storage facilities and pipes for the distribution of water.
The CDC staff and members of the Volunteer Corps have worked assiduously to ensure food hampers and hygiene items were available and that the water tanks were properly installed.
The Indigenous migrants expressed joy upon receiving the resources and they promised to work with the Mayor and Town Council to maintain health and safety within their group.
Anew study by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), published on Thursday in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas, has found that increasing employment opportunities and improving access to and availability of health services, including those for substance use, could potentially reduce suicide mortality rates in the Americas.
It highlights the importance of considering gender-specific social determinants of suicide when developing risk reduction interventions and prevention strategies.
Meanwhile, it was identified that while homicide and the use of alcohol and other substances are associated with an increase in suicide mortality among males, educational inequality was the main factor among females.
For both sexes, unemployment was associated with an increase in suicide mortality.
Enhancing social connections in rural and underpopulated areas is a recommended suicide prevention strategy.
Despite efforts to re-
duce suicide globally, the Americas is the only region in the world where suicide mortality has been increasing since 2000. Some 79 percent of suicides in the Americas occur among men, but among women, suicide has also been increasing. In 2019, there were more than
97,000 suicides in the region.
“In order to prevent suicide, we must go beyond limiting access to methods of suicide, strengthening socioemotional skills, and improving access to mental health care…We must also address the contextual factors that affect men and women differently, which require an all-of-society approach,” Head of Mental Health and Substance Use at PAHO, Dr. Renato Oliveira e Souza, said.
The analysis published in The Lancet also highlights that the average suicide mortality rate among males in the region declined as per capita health spending grew, while that of females declined as the number of physicians employed per 10,000 population increased. For both sexes, the rate declined as moderate
population density grew, a cautionary note highlighting the need to support people living in isolated rural areas.
“Cultural expectations around gender largely determine the sex difference in suicide mortality…Multisectoral measures aimed at the health and wellbeing of society should be emphasized in prevention efforts,” stated a Scientist at the Institute for Mental Health Policy Research (CAMH) in Canada, and
lead author of the paper, Dr. Shannon Lange. PAHO is working to improve the mental health of the population of the Americas and reduce suicide mortality. The Organization provides technical cooperation in suicide prevention to countries through the application of WHO’s Live Life guide, which proposes evidence-based interventions and a comprehensive national response to prevent suicide.
Anew level of eco-tour-
ism awaits at Santa Rosa in Region One (Barima-Waini) where community members have combined efforts to unlock the village’s unique tourism potential.
For the first time in its history, the community has packaged a mesmerizingly unforgettable tourism prod-
can serve as a changing room for those who want to take a dip in the creek.
La Rose noted that as time goes by, the villagers will innovate and curate a product that offers a completely immersive experience.
“You’re starting off with something that is new. You will be innovating as you go along, you will be making changes as you go along…”
experience some of the histories of the places [here],” he noted during the simple commissioning ceremony on Monday.
Culture & opportunities
As guests come to experience what Santa Rosa has to offer, villagers have been reminded of the importance of preserving their culture and traditional way of life.
This notion was emphasised by the French Embassy’s Honorary Consul Resident in Guyana, JeanFrancios Gerin, who urged residents to “keep your language alive.”
learn how to deal with tourism. There are opportunities for hotel owners, the business sector, women’s groups, and young people to be trained as guides to work
in the tourism sector,” the Toshao explained.
He noted that as the tourism sector booms, so will persons who operate in transportation, accommoda-
tion, food, and craft industries.
Santa Rosa mission was established in 1840, and is one of the earliest Catholic Missions in Guyana.
uct through the introduction of canoeing and biking experiences.
The initiative was funded by a grant from the French Government under the Solidarity Fund for Indigenous Peoples (SFIP), and was implemented through the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA).
Canoeing
Tourists can now paddle their worries away in traditional dugout canoes along the calming Cabrora Creek, and enjoy breathtakingly beautiful sceneries of lush canopying trees juxtaposed against the rich, black and enticing waterway.
Eight canoes along with safety jackets were procured under the fund to the tune of $2,457,000.
This experience will be managed by the residents along Cabrera Creek, who were encouraged to further develop the package by installing better amenities and introducing add-on products such as traditional Indigenous meals.
“You can have some kadacura (tuma), coconut water, whitey (fruit) [to offer tourists],” APA Head Jean La Rose suggested whilst delivering brief remarks during the commissioning ceremony on Monday.
She also recommended that they develop a shed that can shelter tourists from rain and sun, and that
Biking
Tourists can also cycle through the various landscapes of Santa Rosa village on one of the sixteen bikes procured through the SFIP.
“This is something that could actually be an asset for business or tourism. When you have tourists come here, you tell them a few words (in your own language), and they will love this. They will go back to America and go back to France and they will know how to say a few words (in your language).”
Gerin also encouraged the villagers to do research on potential tourists, learn their likes and dislikes, and implement strategies that will lure them in.
This aspect of the project cost $3,664,970 and included the purchasing of safety gear and first aid kits as well as the development of a storage area.
Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Village, Marcus Atkinson, says the goal is to develop as much as twelve biking trails throughout the community, but for now, only one has been introduced.
“We would take you around the village. You can
Gerin explained that Santa Rosa has a product that appeals to tourists into ecotourism, and therefore he urged villagers to ensure their community is litter-free.
Meanwhile, Toshao Stavros Stanley also alluded to the many opportunities that villagers can capitalise on as a result of these new tourism experiences.
“We have rare birds and so on that will attract tourists. We need to adapt and
Several Government Ministers ushered in the 53rd Republic Anniversary in several parts of the country, where residents showed up in their numbers to partake in commemorative events.
Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, who holds Parliamentary responsibility for Region One (Barima-Waini), joined residents of Mabaruma at a flag-raising ceremony held at the Mabaruma
Settlement Ground, where among those in attendance were Mayor Chris Phang; Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley, and members of the disciplined services.
As part of the ceremony, the attendees were serenaded with national songs, dance, drama, and poetry, which in their unique way showcased Guyana’s rich and diverse culture and people.
On the occasion, Croal spoke of the Government’s commitment to unite Guyana and bring development to all. Referencing the country’s transformation over the last two years, the Minister noted that the development is not limited to a particular village, community or region.
“Mash 2023 is another opportunity for us to come together to honour Guyana’s rich history and the sacrifice of our hard work. We have made every citizen in Guyana our priority. We are creating a future that is secure for our children and our children’s children.”
Mention was also made of the Government’s successful negotiation for the historic sale of our carbon credits for the benefit of our people. As a result of this deal, some two hundred and forty-two Amerindian and hinterland communities across Guyana will receive between ten million and thirty-five million dollars to advance the development of their communities.
“In this, our 53rd year as a Republic, we are at a crossroads. We can use the opportunities before us, or we can squander them, but what I know for sure is that you have a Government that is determined to shape Guyana’s future for the better,” Croal voiced.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha ushered in the celebrations in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) by stating that the people in the region represent what is best for Guyana: serving together under our Golden Arrowhead.
The Minister noted that over the past 53 years,
Guyanese have been shaping their own destiny, progressively developing the country despite the challenges. The Minister also said that Guyana is on track to meet its targeted contribution towards lowering Caricom’s regional food import bill - Vision 25 by 2025.
He also outlined a number of planned developmental projects aimed at facilitating economic and social development in the region. Those include the construction of state-of-the-art hospitals, stadiums and sporting facilities, agro-processing facilities, and other critical infrastructure.
He noted that despite challenges faced due to the closure of the Rose Hall Sugar Estate, the Government is well on its way to reopening of the estate by the second crop of this year.
In Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat voiced the commitment made to preserving Guyana’s forests, while noting that Indigenous communities play an important role in these efforts.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar, also participated in the Republic Anniversary celebrations on Leguan Island, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara).
With an overwhelming turnout marked by spectacular displays of Guyana’s rich diversity, Minister Indar urged residents to remain committed to the nation’s development. To this end, the Minister encouraged residents to take advantage of the many available opportunities to climb the social ladder.
Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira was at the Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) flag-raising ceremony at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, where she reflected on the country’s journey over the past 53 years.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill attended the celebrations in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
Public-spirited citizens pulled Sergeant Thomas from under the damaged car, and they were both rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where Reynolds underwent emergency surgery.
The incident occurred in the presence of a doctor attached to the New Amsterdam Hospital; her husband is one of these Police officers. This doctor reportedly tended to Corporal Reynolds.
These two Police ranks were part of a domino team, and were at the time about to make their way to Mara, East Bank Berbice to compete.
Police Corporal Alden Reynolds and Police Sergeant Javon Thomas were injured on Thursday after the driver of a speeding motorcar lost control of the vehicle
and it crashed into them at Greater New Amsterdam, Berbice.
Based on reports received, the cops were reportedly walking towards a parked motorcar when the
speeding vehicle, being driven by a resident of Glasgow New Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice, crashed first into that car and then into them.
Eyewitnesses say the impact of the collision threw Sergeant Javon Thomas under the stationary car while Corporal Alden Reynolds was flung into a trench.
Ataxi driver of Queenstown, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) has been charged with the offence of rape of a child under the age of 16. The charge has been filed under Section 10 (3) of the Sexual Offences Act.
Thirty-year-old Delroy Julius Seaforth of New Jersey, United States of America (USA) was on Thursday nabbed at the Cheddi Jagan International
Airport, Timehri with a quantity of ganja.
Based on reports received, on the day in question, officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA)
and the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) intercepted a male incoming passenger with 12 rolled “joints” suspected to be cannabis.
Awoman’s bail was revoked on Wednesday and she has been remanded to prison pending her sentencing hearing, after a jury had found her
was tried for the offence of rape of a child under 16, contrary to Section 10 (3) of the Sexual Offences Act.
The jury, which deliberated for over two hours on Wednesday, returned a unanimous guilty verdict against Allen, who had initially pleaded not guilty to the indictment.
As such, the trial Judge revoked her bail and remanded her into the custody of the State until March 27, when a sentencing hearing would be conducted.
To assist with determining an appropriate sentence for the convict, Justice Sewnarine-Beharry ordered that probation and psychological reports on her be submitted to the court.
Before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and a 12-member jury, 20-yearold Gabriella Allen, called “Gabby,” of Buck Hill, Wismar, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice)
A victim impact statement also has to be submitted to the Judge. Allen was represented by Attorneyat-Law Adrian Thompson, while Attorneys-at-Law Simran Gajraj, Latifah Elliot and Rbina Christmas were the prosecutors.
Reports state that Allen was first charged with the
crime on August 18, 2021, and when she appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, she was remanded to prison. She was eventually admitted to bail.
According to reports, the woman was arrested on August 15, 2021 after a rape allegation was made against her to the Police, prompting an investigation to be launched.
He was cautioned, arrested, and escorted to CANU Headquarters as investigations continue.
Twenty-six-year-old Navindra Latchman was not required to plead to the indictable charge when he appeared before Suddie Magistrate Chrystel Lambert on Tuesday, February 21, 2023. He allegedly committed the offence in June 2022 at Queenstown, Essequibo Coast.
He has been placed on $250,000 bail on condition that he relocate from Queenstown to Riverstown, Essequibo Coast, and he must not make any contact with the virtual com-
plainant during the duration of the matter. His case has been adjourned to March 21, and has been transferred to the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court.
Archery Guyana’s
Secretary General
Mrs. Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon, Head Coach Nicholas Hing and member Kenrick Cheeks on Tuesday, February 21, presented the official Certificate of Affiliation together with a bow and arrow set to QC Archery Club’s President Ms. Leaska Holder in the presence of Queen’s College teacher Sir Mohamed Nassir, other distinguished teachers and some club members, at a simple ceremony at the school.
In January 2023, several Queen’s College students initiated the process of launching their archery club, and began initial training at School of the Nations, which welcomed them to join during their practice sessions. Mr. Cheeks, who is the Physical Education teacher there, has been con-
ducting the practice sessions under the guidance of Archery Guyana, and was also instrumental in encouraging the QC students to join in the sport.
This is yet another milestone in Archery Guyana’s vision of growing the sport in the schools.
Secretary-General Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, in her opening remarks, opined that she was pleased to see a forward step, since her batchmates, the alumni from the Class of 90-95, in collaboration with Archery Guyana, had the honour of introducing a novel sport into Queen’s College at the 175th anniversary on the fields in November 2019.
Against this background, on behalf of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Persaud-McKinnon expressed delight in giving the current students the opportu-
nity to partake, and perhaps be future Olympians! In fact, she went on to indicate that anyone can participate and excel in this safe sport, which builds discipline, character, self-esteem and confidence. It improves health, fitness, focus, motor control, learning skills, and opens opportunities in an Olympic-style sport.
Mrs. Persaud-McKinnon urged the students gathered to take this opportunity seriously, and indicated her confidence that sitting in this audience are Guyana’s future Olympians, both male and female.
She declared, “Remember, Great moments are born from great opportunity!”
Remarks were also made by Head Coach Nicholas Hing and by Kenrick Cheeks. Mr. Hing informed the gathering that Archery Guyana is com-
mitted to providing the necessary training for instructors and certified coaches and judges, both junior and senior.
With this in mind, Archery Guyana sees archery as an ad-
ditional event at school sports; inter-house, inter-schools and Nationals, thereby fostering a competitive spirit among students and the camaraderie that archery is internationally
known for.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Athea Allicock on behalf of the newly affiliated Queen’s College Archery Club.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the squad for the West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 High-Performance camp being hosted at Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua. This is the first activity to bring together the best under-19 talent in the region and build towards the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup in 2024.
The squad of 29 includes two players who were part of the West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 squad at the 2022 ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup, which was hosted in the Caribbean: left-handed batter Jordan Johnson, and right-arm fast bowler Isai Thorne. A third squad member, top-order batter Justin Jaggessar, played two Youth ODIs on the West Indies Rising Stars tour of England in September 2021, but did not play in the World Cup.
Nathan Edward, a left-handed bowling allrounder, was originally selected in the squad, but is currently representing St. Maarten in the Leeward Islands Senior Men’s Tournament being played in St Kitts. He will be available for future Rising Stars camps and tournaments.
The players were selected based on performances during the Rising Stars agegroup tournaments in 2022. Later in the year, CWI will host the 2023 regional agegroup Rising Stars, presenting the opportunity for other players to compete for selection in the squad ahead of the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup.
The Rising Stars Under-19 High-Performance camp will feature targeted coaching sessions and phys-
ical preparations, as well as sessions geared towards their off-field development. The camp started on 21 February and will run to 9 March. It will feature 50-over matches at the CCG on 25 February, and 1, 5 and 8 March.
Robert Haynes, Lead Selector for the Men’s Youth Selection Panel, said: “This camp is all about the importance of the development of West Indies cricket, and this is laying the foundation for the future of our game in the region. This is not just about playing in the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup next year, but also about developing the overall player on and off the field. We have some very talented players in this group, and we know they will do very well. We still have the age-group tournaments later this year, where more players can put in performances and earn selection.”
Rohan Nurse has been named as CWI new Talent Pathway Manager. As part of his role, he will design and lead the programme for the players’ preparation leading up to the next ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup, scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka in early 2024.
The former Assistant Coach of the West Indies Rising Stars Under-19s will lead the day-to-day man-
agement of the development squad as part of his wider high-performance role in managing our best young talent across the region.
During the camp, he
will be joined by Assistant Coaches Nikita Miller and Rohan Clarke; Nick Wilton, specialist wicket-keeping coach; Graeme West, CWI’s High-Performance Manager; Chris Brabazon, CWI’s Coach Development Manager; and Steve Liburd, West Indies Women’s Under-19 Head Coach.
FULL SQUAD
Jacen Agard
Jewel Andrew
Brian Barnes
Solomon Bascombe
Golcharan Chulai
Mavindra Dindyal
Joshua Dorne
Portugal, Panama and Haiti have each secured their place at the 2023 Women's World Cup as three of eight tournament debutants.
The tournament, which has been expanded to 32 teams, will be held in Australia and New Zealand in July and August.
Panama beat Paraguay 1-0 at Hamilton's Waikato Stadium on Thursday to confirm their place, while Portugal overcame Cameroon 2-1 at the same venue. Haiti, meanwhile, defeated Chile 2-1 in Auckland.
The three nations, along with Morocco, Vietnam, Zambia, the Republic of Ireland and the Philippines are set to play in a Women's World Cup for the first time.
Indeed, Panama, Portugal and Vietnam had never previously qualified for a FIFA women's competition, while Morocco – whose men's team en-
joyed a stunning run to the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar last year – became the first-ever Arab nation to be represented in FIFA's flagship women's tournament.
Haiti have been placed in Group D, alongside China, Denmark who are making their first World Cup appearance since 2007, and European champions England.
The matches in that pool will be played in Australia, as they will be in Group F, with Panama set to face Jamaica along with heavyweights Brazil and France.
Portugal will go up against Vietnam, the Netherlands and two-time reigning champions the United States in Group E, which will be played out in New Zealand.
Co-hosts New Zealand take on Norway in Auckland in the tournament's opening game on July 20. (Sportsmax)
Tarrique Edward Reon Edwards
Justin Jaggessar
Deshawn James
Orlando James
Jordan Johnson
Devonie Joseph
Jaden Lorde
Micah McKenzie
Joshua Morris
Stephan Pascal
Jatario Prescod
Andrew Rambaran
Rampertab Ramnauth
Tamarie Redwood
Nathan Sealy
Isai Thorne
Devin Tyson
Yanique Watley
Steven Wedderburn
Adrian Weir
Trevaun Williams
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The National Gymnasium is set to come alive when ‘old heads’ in the Futsal business, Back Circle and Bent Street, clash in the Rock Auto Trans and Spares Parts ‘Legendary Cup’ Futsal final.
On the backs of lopsided victories over Sparta Boss (51) and Tiger Bay (7-2) in last Saturday’s semifinals, Back Circle and Bent Street are set for a monumental showdown come this Saturday, February 25, 2023, in a bid to walk away with half a million.
In a pre-game press conference on Wednesday, the battle lines were drawn between the two teams, whose representatives, Colin Nelson and Selwyn Williams, both called for fan support.
“Bent Street is usually a confident team. I mean, it’s not a strange environment
for us going into this final. I think the guys are usually their confident self, ready to go and ready to give their all,” Bent Street Captain Colin Nelson shared.
Nelson further stated, on the need for support, “I want to encourage the supporters, the fans, to come out and support in their numbers. It’s a festive time here in Guyana, as we’re getting ready to celebrate our Mashramani. Football has been a part of the culture, and it should be a festivity as well. So, come out Saturday and enjoy.”
Meanwhile, Back Circle skipper Selwyn Williams said, “First and foremost, I gotta say I need support there on Saturday. I need everybody to come out and support Back Circle; who supporting Bent Street to come out and support Bent Street. “We look forward to a
clean and competitive match, and for the referees to give us a good game. I overheard that Colin Nelson has been approved to compete in Saturday’s finals along with Mr Ryan Hackett, so they’re shopping right now to come
and compete against Back Circle,” Williams added in some playful banter.
Meanwhile, the sponsors have expressed satisfaction with the tournament thus far, and have signalled a commitment to another in-
stallment in 2024. This was communicated by Rock Auto Trans’ Managing Director Yolanda Ross.
“Rock Auto Trans and team are very, very happy with the overwhelming response we would have got-
ten so far from the general public and teams. And now that we’re in the finals, we look forward to Bent Street and Back Circle,” Rock Auto Trans’ Yolanda Ross shared on Wednesday.
Ross went on to add about intentions for a second tournament, “We’re also looking forward for 2024, where we move into our second tournament, and we want to say, ‘May the best team win’.”
Back Circle and Bent Street are vying for a $500,000 grand prize on Saturday February 25, while the loser of the contest will have to settle for $250,000.
Sparta Boss and Tiger Bay will lock horns in the thirdplace playoff for a chance to clinch $150,000, while the loser pockets $100,000.
Both the tournament’s MVP and a lucky fan will ride away with motorcycles.
vised, "Every year, promoters have been faced with contentious issues regarding the age of Guyana-bred juveniles and older horses. Then the promoter is blamed for being biased when they question the validity of horses' age when entered. This has to stop now."
The spokesperson, whose group has unwavering love for the sport added, "Government want this sport to grow, and we have to get our act right. This is a start to several changes in the sport, and we have to
display our eagerness to be properly regulated. So that when regulations are approved, we are ready."
The spokesperson continued, "Our country, and by extension our Government, is making massive strides in development across the board. This industry has to rise to the challenge to be the hub for racing in the Caribbean, so that we can invite other Caribbean racing jurisdictions to compete in Guyana. We have to display our determination for success. We have
The opening day of the new racing season, which was initially set for Sunday, February 26, at the Rising Sun race track, will now be held on Sunday, March 5, due to inclement weather.
Leading up to the event, an emergency meeting was convened by one of the industry's stakeholders, Nasrudeen Mohamed, on Sunday February 19, 2023 at Jagdeo's residence on the Corentyne, East Berbice.
In attendance were Fazal Habibulla, Therbhuwan Jagdeo, Stuart Gonzales, Dennis Deoroop, and Mohamed.
A number of urgent issues were on the agenda. However, breeding and registration of foals, mares, and studs (stallions) set the pace for the meeting, as the breeding season commenced.
The stakeholders' mood was very upbeat, and it was observed from their facial expression - everyone left with a broad smile, including 'Uncle Fazal.'
An expansive, and comprehensive range of ideas was discussed and thrashed out so that breeders and stud farm owners could have their foals, mares, and stallions conform to the proper procedure for registration, which will assist with the eventual establish-
ment of this country's Stud Book.
The reason behind this high-powered meeting stemmed from horsemen not following the proper procedures for the registration of their foal crop in conformity with the international standard. That created problems for promoters of the sport at entry stage, this daily newspaper was informed.
instance, to ensure that the breeding of horses conforms to the international practice. The emphasis on this process comes on the heels of expected 'approved' regulations from Government shortly.
Mohamed, who spearheaded the meeting, explained: "We all have different views, but we now have to harness that in the same direction. This meeting was
The relevant documents for registration of foals, stallions, and mares will be made available to stud farm owners and breeders, according to this new racing committee, in the coming weeks, and horsemen can request same in due course.
It was suggested and agreed that three veterinarians be hired in the first
the start. We want the industry to be placed on the proper footing. Those who do not conform to rules for the registration and breeding of horses will be left behind, as we intend to stage very lucrative purses for Guyana-bred horses this season, and onwards."
An appointed spokesperson for the Committee ad-
to grow with the nation's massive strides dictated by the Government. We have a commitment to assist the sport and show the Government we are ready."
In concluding, the spokesperson declared, "We are advising do not miss out on this bandwagon, as this ride would not come along again. In due course, we will be sending out email and text message via social media and press released to the media of our plans. We will also welcome constructive criticism, and ideas."
The three-day tour match between the West Indies and a South Africa Invitational XI ended in a draw at Willowmoore Park in Benoni on Thursday.
The tourists began their second innings facing a deficit of 34 after dismissing the South Africans for 317 to close out day two.
Captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who made 23 in the first innings, didn’t bat this time around, and Raymon Reifer joined Tagenarine Chanderpaul at the top of the innings.
Chanderpaul reached a run-a-ball 12 before he was dismissed by Thando Ntini with the score on 13.
Three runs later, Devon Thomas was dismissed by Corbin Bosch for one. Reifer followed not long after for three as the Windies found themselves 18-3 in the eighth over.
Kyle Mayers and Jermaine Blackwood came together and orchestrated a recovery before Mayers went for a whirlwind 38 off just 24 balls, with the score on 71 in the 15th over.
Blackwood was then joined by first innings half-centurion Joshua Da Silva, and the pair put on
a further 62 for the fifth wicket. That fifth wicket came when Blackwood was dismissed by Irvin Modimokoane for 39 in the 31st over.
In the end, Da Silva followed up his first innings fifty with 44, while Jason Holder, who also got a first innings fifty, made 32 and Kemar Roach made 29* as the West Indies reached 208-8 off 49 overs, before the match was declared a draw.
The West Indies will now turn their attention to the first Test against South Africa, which bowls off on February 28.
Scores: West Indies 2839 off 89 overs (Jason Holder 57, Joshua Da Silva 54*, Roston Chase 35, Raymon Reifer 30, Corbin Bosch 2-17, Irvin Modimokoane 2-39, Smangaliso Nhlebela 2-71. And 208-8 off 49 overs (Joshua Da Silva 44, Jermaine Blackwood 39, Kyle Mayers 38, Thando Ntini 2-10, Irvin Modimokoane 2-29 South Africa Invitational XI 317 off 89.5 overs (Wihan Lubbe 71, Dewald Brevis 50, Ruan De Swardt 40, Akeem Jordan 3-32, Roston Chase 3-94, Shannon Gabriel 2-45). (Sportsmax)