Latest update November 26th, 2024 1:00 AM
Minister Prashad lunches with rugby officials, team
Minister of Tourism and Commerce Manniram Prashad (seated centre) seen with rugby officials and team members during a luncheon which was held in the Ministry's Boardroom yesterday.
Minister of Tourism and Commerce Manniram Prashad during a luncheon with officials and team members of the national rugby squad currently preparing to represent Guyana at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India confessed that the fraternity was neglected in the past.
Prashad whose Ministry organised the lunch which was hosted in the entity’s Boardroom Thursday admitted that not much attention was paid to the successful exploits of the team, but that they were willing to correct the anomaly and promised much more support in the future.
The Minister after extending a hearty welcome to the visitors stated that the Ministry was indeed pleased to be associated with them and acknowledged the work done by President of the Union Christopher ‘Kit’ Nascimento, Mike McCormack and all the others who were integral in producing a team that could now compete on the world stage.
He said that just like the cricketers, the whole of Guyana is supporting the team, adding that it is not only the T20 team that attention is being paid to, but rugby as well.
“Rugby is now in the limelight, it is so because of its performance and hopefully sponsors now will feel more inclined to add their support to you (rugby),” the Minister declared.
He disclosed that he is indeed happy that persons like Nascimento and McCormack are involved in the sport.
“We are extremely happy to be associated with the team and this is not only for the Commonwealth Games, but for the future as well.”
Prashad also welcomed the presence of Go-Invest CEO Geoffrey Da Silva, while urging the team to do their best to make Guyana proud. “I expect you to do well.” Nascimento responding on behalf of the Union formally thanked the Minister for organising the occasion, promising that they see themselves as ambassadors ad will do everything to advertise and promote Guyana.
He spoke of the popularity that the sport has gained over the years and this he attributed to the success of the teams.
Nascimento, however, revealed that that success has come at a fair price to the Union which has been burdened with the responsibility of soliciting assistance from the corporate community to offset enormous expenses to prepare teams and travel.
“Almost immediately after the conclusion of the Games, we will be going to the IRB Sevens Series in Las Vegas to participate against the best teams in the world and that tour will cost a huge sum of money,” Nascimento mentioned.
Guyana is in a group that also includes New Zealand, Scotland and Canada.
Also present at yesterday’s event were Acting Secretary of the Union Gem Madhoo-Nascimento, Senior Vice-President Robin Roberts and staffers of the Ministry.
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