Kaieteur News

Several countries have unlimited oilspill,unlikeVPJagdeo,Nandlall’s

VP Jagdeo on no into Gaza mass graves

…says present ExxonMobil Guyana subsidiary shields HQ from liabilities - Former EPA Head

ExxonM banking on Guyana to sustain growth in face of declining global income Routledge parrots significant increase in Guyana’s oil reserve

Guyanese

Man sleeps oustide ex-lover’s window despite restraining order parentcompanyguaranteesagainst misleading statements

in the dark over true cost of power ship

WorksonphasetwoofBerbicetechnicaltrainingfacilitybegins

Construction of phase twooftheGuyanaTechnical Tr a i n i n g C o l l e g e Incorporated (GTTCI) in Port Mourant, Corentyne Berbicehasbegun,President Irfaan Ali announced on Monday

In a Facebook post, the head-of-state said, “This phase will involve building the technologically advanced,multi-disciplinary main campus, which will have the capacity to accommodate 150 students and include administrative offices with all necessary facilities.”

The investment in the College is about US$100 million.

Back in February, the firstphaseoftheprojectwas commissioned. That phase included the Simulator Facility (FacTor), valued at cost of US$13 million. The initial phase focused on providing practical training i n M e c h a n i c a l , Instrumentation, Electrical, and Production areas, catering to batches of 25 students.

With boundless avenues for rapid growth and transformation emerging, a concertedeffortisunderway to equip Guyanese for opportunities within the booming oil and gas sector Crafting a skilled workforce isatoppriority,aspartofthis strategy;thegovernmenthas embarked on a nationwide campaign to provide worldclass education and upskilling opportunities to Guyanese, ensuring that local content remains the pinnacleofGuyana’soiland gasdevelopment.

Thedecisiontoestablish an oil and gas training college in Berbice was conceived two years ago, throughcollaborativeefforts involving ExxonMobil Guyana, SBM Offshore Guyana, Hess Corporation, andChinaNationalOffshore OilCorporation(CNOOC).

SBM Offshore Guyana oversaw the design and constructionofthesimulator facility FacTor, is a fully

operational live process plant, replicates actual plant functions and includes a

Central Control Room (CCR), a marshalling cabinet, and a motor control

center (MCC) cabinet, all powered by the latest DCS controlsystem.

The GTTCI facility, spanningsome18.4acres,is part of a larger plan which

includes the Hospitality and TourismInstituteandtheOil andGasTrainingCollege.

Phase Two of the construction work at the GGTCI

Phase one of the facility under construction (Zulfikar Khan photo)

Guyaneseinthedarkovertruecostofpowership

Vice President Bharrat

Jagdeo has accused Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) David Patterson of misleading the nationonthecostthatwillbe accrued for the rental of the Turkishpowership.

Pattersonsaidthatitwill cost Guyana more than US$200M to utilise the power ship for the two-year period.

Notwithstanding

Patterson’s calculations, Jagdeo did not provide a detailed account of what the country is really paying for

the service, leaving Guyanese in the dark over thetruecost.

Jagdeo was at the time addressing reporters at his weekly press conference on Thursday

At a previous press-

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

conference Jagdeo was pressed to provide the amount of money Guyana will be paying for the e l e c t r i c i t y f r o m

Karpowership International.

Insteadofgivingadefinitive answer, he said that it will cost the country nearly US$0.30 cents per Kilowatt

Hour

“When you add the two (fuel cost and the cost for rental),itcomesuptonearly 0.20 something cents nearly 0.30 cents per Kilowatt hour,”Jagdeosaid.

The Guyana Power and Light Company recently inked a contract with Urbacon Concessions Investments,W.L.L(UCI)to charter the Turkish vessel withatotalinstalledcapacity of 36 Megawatts (MWs) for aperiodoftwoyears.

The contract, according to GPL, includes the provision of operation and maintenanceservicesaspart oftheagreement.

According to the utility companyinapublicmissive on Thursday, “the contract requires GPL to pay UCI a feeof6.62UScentsperkWh

as a monthly charter fee for the power ship and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh, based on electricitygenerated.”

The cost however excludes the price for fuel because according to the contract signed Guyana will stillhavetosupplythepower

ship with fuel in addition to theagreedsumtocharterthe vessel.

Former subject minister David Patterson in a widely broadcast interview, had claimedthataninterrogation of the information released, reveals that renting the power ship will in fact cost the country some 55 US

centstogenerateamegawatt ofelectricityandoveratwoyear-period,itwilladdupto overUS$200million.

In an invited comment, theMemberofParliamentin seeking to clarify that this publication had in fact undervalued the reported paymentsbeingmadeforthe

Continuedonpage16

Karpowership

Kaieteur News

Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456

Editor: NIGELWILLIAMS

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Excuses

The PPP Govt. battling labour, weakening workers

GuyanesemustbefightingforGuyanese,first,foremost, andwitheverysparkofenergypresent. OnthisLabourDay, not one Guyanese worker should be existing with the grimness of coping with an unlivable wage. Not in the countrythatboaststhebrightestprospects,thebeststatistics. No Guyanese family should be anxious about how it will get to the next meal, what it will be made of, from where the means will come. Not in one of the richest countries anywhere,notwhenitscitizensareamongthemostenviedin the world. Need and hunger should not be the reality of any GuyaneseworkerandhisorherfamilyonthisLabourDay,or anyotherday

Thefulsomespeechesandsweetmessagesfrompolitical leaders and groups will flow on this Labour Day We point them to the inconvenient reality of the teachers of Guyana beingfoughteverystepofthewaybytheirowngovernment. Theirstruggleisforafairwage.Thefightoftheseworkersof Guyana, and educators of the children of Guyana, are for the standards and provisions of their collective bargaining agreement to be honoured in letter and spirit. Neither has happened with any element of honesty, not even allowed to gain some semblance of a foundation The PPP/C Government has battled teachers in boardrooms and courtroomsineffortstointimidatethem,diminishthem,and deny them what is their just due.Tens of thousands of public servants have been subjected to the same contemptuous, damaging treatment. But the government says that it respectslabour,andthatitisfairtotheworkersofGuyana.

Thetotalpayandallowancepacketsofmanyministersin the PPP/C Government are 15 to 20 times that of a line level teacher But that is declared to be fairness, the nature of leadersinagovernmentthatcaresbecausethereisrespectfor the rights of workers. The economy is powered by some numbers that are out of this world, what cannot be matched by any other quarter, yet teachers and public servants have been insulted with percentages and raises that mock being a workerinGuyana. Thegovernmentinsiststhatitisfair The private sector has lamented the shortage of skilled workers, and the government has agreed. The wages of workers in thatsectorwillhavetomatchtheirexpectationsofwhatthey are worth, what such amounts must be. The government is pleased with itself to broadcast that it is laying the groundwork for a modern and vibrant future in its top-heavy emphasis on infrastructure projects. Hundreds of billions have been identified in the national budgets of the last few years to build up and broaden the infrastructure base, and with all the familiar corruptions that are now part and parcel ofpublicprojects,publicprogrammes. Theunspokenaspect of that overemphasis is that the cost of labour has been minimised and pulverized, which leads to what rankles. When labour is hungry and angry, then that is much energy that is not employed in the best manner, and the nation is the loserforit.

It is unnerving and disagreeable that workers in the Guyana of today are compelled to scrape and scratch for a living. The compensation of teachers and public servants (among many other categories of workers) condemns them to a state of near beggary There is a clear case that can be madeforahugefractionofthelabourforceinGuyanaliving on or close to the poverty line. Yet the PPP/C Government that has control of the purse strings has dedicated itself to fight against the just calls and causes of Guyana's workers (teachers and others) tooth and nail. With the arrival of the enormous national patrimony and this country's tiny population, Guyanese workers and their families should be celebrating on all the Labour Days since. It has been the other way around, when government policies founded on unilateral impositions, have taken root and sprouted. How can this ever be acceptable in the presence of collective bargaining? Guyanese are the toast of the world, but poor Guyanese are traumatised by their own richly settled government.

Two NDCs managed differently

DearEditor,

The Fyrish NDC Chairman is out of the blocks on a positive note, as he pushes for an audit of the books to ensure transparency in the local arm, for, as he puts it, nothing must taint his legacyattheendofhistenure.

Young, energetic with ideas to develop the NDC and community, and while it is somewhat difficult to understand why an audit of the books was not carried out sooner, since office was assumed in November 2023, it is goodtoknow,though,it'sapriorityitem tobeundertakensoon.

Otherdevelopmentareastotacklein the community include road rehabilitation; community centres,

landfills and culverts being developed. Of note in the passionate development plans outlined is the unity thread and to be a role model for the youths of the community. Added to this, the Chairman has plans to collaborate with UG to train the NDC staff and ten day part time workers to be more computer literate and adept in its use and functions. A Chairman on the move, who must be commended and supported. Iwishhimwell.

Compare or contrast this with the headline 'Senior NDC official accused of issuing receipts from private receipt book' (GT April 30) Johns-Port Mourant NDC in the news again for all the wrong reasons The frequent

instances of acts of malfeasance which surface at this particular NDC give rise to wonder is there no honest, decent or professionalofficialatthisNDC?

How could a senior official, allegedly act with such unprofessional conduct, still, it seems in the position and not facing the heat for such scandalousacts.

The perceived foot dragging in this matter by the council only adds another blot to the already several added to this NDC and creates the impression the officialisuntouchable.

Two NDCs Two different managementstyles.

Sincerely

Shamshun Mohamed

When it comes to the poor and needy, the PPP Govt never has money

DearEditor,

I am writing this letter on behalf of the thousands of NIS pensioners who have not received any increase in their pension this year simply because their pension is above the new minimum wage of $43,000 per month which was announcedinthisyearbudget.

Editor, this government would neverlearn,stumblingfromonecrisisto the next, because of poor planning and decision-making. It seems when it comes to the poor and needy of this country, this government cannot find money to make life easier for them, but can find billions for the elite of this country.

Howcanyoujustifysomeonewhois getting $44,000 per month in pension not receiving any increase? As Swatan

and Ursilla told me, Mr Bacchus, it is not fair, if this trend continues, the people who are getting the minimum will surpass us although we worked hard and give long years of service and contributed more to the NIS than them. People who are above the minimum are cryingdiscriminationandarelamenting how this government can give some pensioners an increase and not all pensioners. The right thing they could have done was to give the pensioners who are above the minimum, a 22% increase which is the percentage between the old and new minimum so thatallpensionerswillreceivethesame increase.

I am wondering if the President, Vice President and Minister of Finance were in our shoe what they would have

done? I am sure they would have shouted at the top of their voices, DISCRIMINATION!!! I started this letter by mentioning poor planning and decision making. Please gentlemen, when the three of you were formulating thebudget,howcouldyounotseethatit is a poor decision to give some pensioners an increase and not all pensioners. How could you not see that this is discrimination? Let me tell you something, this has nothing to do with politics, because PPP supporters are balling the most. So please gentlemen, dotherightthingandgiveanincreaseto the NIS pensioners who are above the minimum. Thousands of pensioners are waiting.

Yours faithfully, Imtiaz Bacchus

A successful 32nd Congress of the People's Progressive Party is assured

DearEditor,

On the weekend (May 3rd to May 5th), the People's Progressive Party is having its most important event through its 32nd Congress at t h e A r t h u r C h u n g Conferen

e, Liliendaal,Region4.

This Congress would be under the theme “Strengthen the Party, Defend Guyana, Unite Our People for Progress and Prosperity”, very applicable at this time s i n c e Ve n e z u e l a ' s unjustifiable claim to the Essequibo and building a “One Guyana” Platform for the 2025 Elections. This Congress would take the leadership (Central Committee and Executive Members) into the next General Election in 2025, on astrongerbearingbecauseof the excellent work that Government has been doing over the last three-and onehalf years, after taking office inAugust2020.

The Party continues its

intensive preparations and logistical arrangements for the delegates and observers drawnfromallten(10)ofthe Administrative Regions of Guyanaandseveraloverseas groups would be gracing the activity

The Congress will provide for a comprehensive overview of the Party's performance since the last Congress and outline a strategicdirectioninkeeping with the Party's Programme and Guyana's present social, political and economic development.

The Delegates and Observers will examine the Government's stewardship of the country so far as a g a i n s t t h e d i s m a l performance of the APNU+AFC from 2015 to 2020, initiate discussions andmakesrecommendations to the Party on the way forward. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening Party's structure and unity as the PPP seeks to provide

sound,consistent,steadyand reliable leadership and to continue to work towards improving the quality of livesofallGuyanese.

As with most of the Congresses of recent times, the Party would be honouring and offering an appreciative gesture and recognition and appreciation t o t h o s e who would have diligently served the Party for more than20years.

Perhaps, the most watched part of the event, though, will be the election of Party Leaders who would make up the 35-member Central Committee. The Election for Central Committee Members would be an amiably competitive process where the elected leaders would no doubt be committed, efficient and effective, a hallmark of PPP Leadership.

An essential principle governing the activities of the Party is that of criticism and self-criticism The (Continued on page 6)

The Central Congress Committee is chaired by the present PPP's Executive S e c r e t a r y, Z u l f i k a r Mustapha. This body meets weekly as the momentum intensifies and reports regularly to the Executive Committee of the Party Party groups across the country prepared motions and resolutions, initiating fundraising activities, identifying delegates, observers and nominees to contest the elections to the Central Committee of the Party. The Highlight of this Congress, as were others, will be the Central Committee's Report to be presented by the Party's General-Secretary, Bharrat J a g d e o , address by His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and elections of Candidates to theCentralCommitteeofthe PPP

I am saddened and felt sick of the

DearEditor, I am saddened and felt sick after reading of the many new developments related to the extraction and perhaps more succinctly put, the exploitation of our vast non-renewable, and I repeat non-renewable natural resources particularly in goldmining,oilandgas.

The latest of course, by way of example is the report of a gold prospecting entity that announced that it sold 57% shares of its Guyana gold project for some US$638 million (C$875 million),daysafterreceiving a go ahead from the Guyana Government.

Thenthereisthelopsided agreement inked by a Government which I supported in 2016 and in spite of promises made then b y t h e c u r r e n t administration, we hear this Anansi story about the sanctity of Contracts. Of course, the word renegotiation has now become a bad, vulgar, nasty word in the lexicon of our leaders on all sides of our political divide.

If I have to repeat this every day and if the independent media and concerned citizens and I to repeat every hour and every day that only the closing of our ranks among our political leadership to allow us to engage the powerful transnationals will produce opportunities for Guyanese from the Corentyne Coast to the Point Playa, from the Coast to the Rupununi to enjoy a much larger piece of the cake and translate into real independence and the reality of this fact that with the abundance of gold, diamond, timber, marine resources, arable land, oil andgaspercapita.Wearethe richest people in the world, richerthantheUnitedStates, Japan, China and Saudi Arabia.

However, for Guyanese

everywhere to benefit from this bounty three things are necessary First, our leaders must appreciate and understand the underlying everlastingphilosophyofthe Mighty Transnationals and in spite of inducements, in spite of the insinuation of corruption by weak decision-makers and the weakness of decisionmakers that historically the leopard never changes its spots.

To enable our leaders in Guyana, in and out of Parliament, to walk the rocky road to progress, I recommend they read the dissertation entitled

“Embrace of the Dragon,” but more particularly the powerful erudite and instructive booklet written by the Great Canadian thinker, author and economist, Kari Levitt titled ' S i l e n t S u r r e n d e r. ”

Research showed how the mighty US Transnationals were taking over control of the Canadian Economy and that in essence, Canadian Political Leaders seemed unawareofthismovementof economic imperialism and domination. Her profound analysis was a wake-up call for the C a n a d i a n P o l i t i c a l Establishment to resist this subtle take over By its mighty neighbour to the south. No politicalleader, no University Analyst, no Advisor, no Consultant can offer sound advice unless they read and digest this

s

Surrender by Kari Levitt” and I recommend as compulsory reading to our present political elite on the assumption that they really careforthewell-beingofthis andfuturegenerations.

Lloyd Best and Arthur Lewis' examination is also useful. You see Dear Editor and Citizens, in spite of our C o n s t i t u t i o n a l l y

Independence, thanks to the experienceofBigBrother,in Guyana and elsewhere it required shrewd, committed leaders whose interests are neither personal nor short term political benefits but to do all things to benefit the people they represent. In other words, to be true patriots.

Patriots not to be overcome by the glamour of cocktailsandvisits.Notover awed by borrowings from nations and multinational agencies when available to us is the abundance of gifts on land, sea and air given by akindandcaringcreator We need men and women, when in the face of pressure, in the sting of the Cold War could say to certain International Agencies whose officials weretheagentsofMassathat they can put their money where the monkey put the nuts. The media, people, religious organisations must

giveaway of our patrimony

give our leaders the bounce and courage to stand up like menandnotmice.

The second hurdle is that a Government must avoid the tragedy and the folly of ignoring the question of the country's ascorbic capacity, bywayofexampleinsteadof rushing to build hospitals, health centres, schools, etc. with the abundance of money available to train large numbers of health workers, nurses and teachers In the case of teachers, the training should ensure persons skilled to deal with all aspects of pedagogy We encourage Venezuelans and others to settle ignoring or oblivious to the fact that these immigrants bring their children to utilise an education system that is already facing challenges, putting further strain on our t e a c h e r s Ye t t h e Government is reluctant to pay teachers a living wage, causingahighfunctionaryto refer to the words found in the Book of Matthew Chapter 7: 9-11 “Which of you, “if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?”

Mind you, the PPP Government rests on the foundation of the right of workers that a people's government must secure the

'commanding heights' ofthe economy in order to let people everywhere, in the field, office and factory to enjoy our new found wealth.

Finally, if as a people, if as a free, independent nation state, we must recognise the fact that history, all human history has a puckish way of repeating itself, sometimes with good, sometimes with disastrous results The problem continues to be that so-called intelligent men placed in positions of responsibility are unable to use the experiences for their benefit and the benefit of the people they purport to representandsowehug,kiss andseekphotoopportunities with those whose interest often times do not coincide with those of the people they represent.

In our case, this is aggravated by individuals who say and do things pleasing to Massa and to our Oppressors, no matter how sophisticated, those people are dangerous because they are part of a group/groups thatshouldbeinthefrontline fighting against Oppression and Discrimination. A few generations ago, such persons were described as 'house slaves ' I am uncomfortable using such a term because of its ugliness, butweseeitinGuyanatoday

atseverallevels.

When I represented Guyana at the Independence of Namibia, I recalled painfully speaking with a groupofSouthAfricanswho appeared to be what we called coloured, maybe a mixture of Indian, Black African and White African. They sought to justify apartheid, contending that the average black South African was enjoying a better standard of living than thoseinotherpartsofAfrica. This belief stems from the myopia that material benefit irrespective of the quantum is all that matters when compared to others and so they felt that the opposition to apartheid, which I stoutly denouncewasinappropriate.

So you have in Guyana, thefastestgrowingeconomy in the world These ridiculous Contracts and Agreements which are allowing a new superclass controlling massive sums while ordinary workers, including public servants must subsist for a month on sums that others can gamble in a day and with great publicity donate materials and machinery to show how generoustheyare.

Tomyfriendswhocalled me to complain that some of them were unfairly being (Continued on page 6)

A successful 32nd Congress of the People's Progressive...

From page 4 proper application leads to a correct identification of our s h o r t comings, our mistakes and the real source of error, thus making it simpler for correction.Itshouldbenoted

identification of errors and

drawing attention to whoever is at fault, whereas

self-criticism is the acceptance of one's own mistake, with a willingness tocorrectsame.

The 31st Congress

The 31st Congress was historic in the sense that it was held during a period w h e n t h e P e o p l e ' s Progressive Party was in the Opposition The last Congress was held in the

Cinderella County of Essequibo at Anna Regina, on

importance of this Congress wastostrategiseandregroup and prepare the Party for Local Government (2018) and General Election (which tookplacein2020).

The Party came out with flying colours at both the LocalGovernmentElections (2018) and General and Regional Elections (2020) which proved that the 31st Congress had a positive impact on the success that the Party and Government enjoyed.

The astute leadership of Jagdeo, who was elected by the Central Committee after the 31st Congress was of

paramount importance to the Party's many successes. His brilliance and strategic knowledge will continue to be an asset to the People 's Progressive Party. His leadership qualities and skills make him politically savvytocontinueleadingthe P a r t y

The People's Progressive Party's 1st Congress was held on March 31 and April 1, 1951, just over seventythree (73) years ago. The Party Constitution which was adopted in 1951 was later amended at the 6th Congressin1958andthe8th Congress in 1960.The Party Constitution was completely re-written at the 20th Congress, the same that the Party fun

h presently

ThosedaysthePartywas organised locally into constituency committees, based on the geographical electoral constituencies. The membership fee was then sixty cents yearly The GeneralCouncilconsistedof

Chairman, First Vice C h a i r m a n , Second Vice Chairman, the Leader with status like the Chairman, the General Secretary, Asst. General Secretary, Organising Secretary and Treasurer along with fourteen other m e m b e r s

The highlights of the 1st Congress were the agenda that included presentations by Dr Cheddi Jagan,Ashton Chase, Rudy Luck and Sydney King followed by the ratification of the Party Constitution, nomination of Office Bearers and General Council, Report of the General Secretary, motions and questions from members,installationofnew Office Bearers and the outline of the Party's

Programmefor1951. P a r t y H i s t o r y The PPP was founded on January 1,1950 as a merger of the British Guiana Labour

Party led by Forbes Burnham and the Political AffairsCommitteeledbyDr Cheddi Jagan, and was the first mass party in the country The People's P r o g r e s s i v e P a r t y was formally launched with Dr Jagan as Leader, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham as Chairman and Janet Jagan as Secretary. The first headquarters of the Party was at Dr Jagan's Dental Surgery at Charlotte Street, Georgetown. The first issue of the Party's organ, the Thunder, was published to coincide with the Party's

launching. The first

Congress of the Party was held on April 1, 1951, at w h i c h t i m e the Party's constitution was adopted.

It was a multi-ethnic party supported by workers and intellectuals At the Third Congress of the Party, B u r n h a m m a d e a n unsuccessful bid to become P a r t y Leader

The party went on to win the 1953 elections, taking 18 of the 24 elected seats in the House of Assembly, resulting in Jagan becoming Chief Minister A successful 32nd Congress of the People's Progressive Party is a s s u r e d

Regards

Jagnarine Somwar

I am saddened and felt...

From page 5 categorised as house-slaves, look deeply and carefully why this administration is frustrating the Meetings of the Public Accounts Committee. Is it not to avoid an examination, therefore exposure of the breaches of our tendering process to favour the affiliates of the newemergingrulingclass?

I ask friends who get upset to study the structure of this Government, in other words, who are the real decision-makers and the

beneficiaries of our new foundwealth?

In 2021, 11 Gold Export Licences were granted, of whichonlytwoweregranted toAfricans, while in 2022, 6 licences were granted, here again, only one was granted toanAfricanGuyanese.

Inthatcase,hecouldnot be bypassed because he has been in the business for decades. The irony of this allocation of licences, gold prospecting opportunities is that it was the Manumitted

A f r i c a n s w h o f i r s t

discovered gold and faced thehazardsoftheinterior

This monster exists and thisgenerationmusthavethe wisdom and courage to confrontandcontainit.

Here once again, thanks to those persons who are out there shining light in the darkness and exposing arrangements contrary to the good of our people.We must thank them for continuing thestruggle.Thestrugglefor justice continues, the struggle for equity continues. The struggle for a fair distribution and allocation of this nation's massive wealth must continue until there is victory for the Descendants of slaves, Indigenous people and the Descendants of Indentured Labourers I hope,pleadandpraythatour leaders avoid silly steps but march us merrily to the magnificencethatbeckons. Hamilton Green Elder

BLUNT BLUNT BLUNT BLUNT

Who

is on the workers' side?

Today, the Government will extol itself as the party of the working class. It will do so without any shame despite its mistreatment of public servants, teachers and nurses. The PPP/C Government has battled teachers in boardrooms and courtrooms in efforts to intimidate them, diminish them, and deny them what is their just due.

Tens of thousands of public servants have been subjected to the same contemptuous, damaging treatment.

But the government says that it respects labour, and that it is fair to the workers of Guyana.

Routledge parrots VP Jagdeo on no significant increase in Guyana’s oil reserves

Although eight new discoveriesweremadesince Guyana’s last resource update in April 2022, with one of those estimated to hold some 746 million barrels of oil, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) has repeated the words of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo that there is no significant update to the country’s estimated 11 billionbarrelsofrecoverable resources.

PresidentofExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL),

Alistair Routledge on Tuesday sought to clarify reports and comments on there being no update to the country’s reserves since 2022.

He was at the time engaging the media at the company’s Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown office.

The Country Manager first made a distinction between oil reserves and resources He explained, “When we have a better ability to understand that

throughlookingatconcepts, the number of wells and testingofthereservoirsthen we are able to move to greater certainty and the greater certainty we have is when we sanction a new project as we did with Whiptail.

That is when we start to call them reserves. We are now at the point where we can consider that these are going to be developed and produced so its reserves not resource.”

To this end, Routledge

said that the six sanctioned projects in the Stabroek Block are estimated to hold some4.8billionbarrelsofoil reserves.

Describingtheprocessto determine oil reserves as an “ongoing complex exercise,” the Country Managerpointedoutthatthe companyhasbeenproviding quarterly updates to the governmentontheestimated recoverableresources.

“We provide quarterly updates to the government, that number hasn’t moved hugely in the recent months but it is something that we continue to look at and we update the government,” Routledgesaid.

He was keen to note that the oil giant’s focus is to move the resource to reserves since this generates revenue for the country

Routledge referenced neighbouring Suriname, highlighting that that countryhasanestimatedfive billion oil equivalent barrels of discovered recoverable resource, with the first discovery made since 2020. Bethatasitmay,hereasoned that Suriname has not yet moved to the production stage.

Tothisend,heexplained, “Soit’sanicebignumberbut ifyoudon’teverconvertitto a project, you don’t have reserves, you don’t have revenue.That’swhywesaid our focus is really shifting, we will continue to explore and look for those opportunities but really the focus is on how do we convert that to value for the country.”

Given the explanation provided by the Country Manager, Kaieteur News asked for an update on how thecountry’sresourceshave grown since the 11B barrels estimate in 2022. Since the last resource update, ExxonMobilmadeeightnew discoveries in the Stabroek Block, with one of those

discoveries holding an estimated 746 million barrelsofoil.

In response to the question, Routledge said, “I think I’ve answered that, it’s the same as what Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has said, the 11 billion hasn’t significantly changed, we continue to updatethegovernment.”

This newspaper pressed the official to provide the most recent figure, however hesaid,“wearestillcarrying 11billionbarrels.Ican’ttell you exactly what’s in the latestnumberwegavetothe government,

I don’t have that number tohandbutwecontinuetodo theupdatesanditsaround11 billion oil equivalent barrels but like I said the only time we ever know exactly what that resource number, that reserve number is the day youstopproducing.”

In fact, he said that it is quite normal for those numbers to be revised downwards.

“Sometimes those numbers actually come down,wehavetore-estimate thoseastheycomedownand that’s quite normal in other countriesaroundtheworld,” theCountryManagernoted.

ExxonMobil is the operatoroftheStabroekwith a 45% stake, with partners

CNOOC Ltd and Hess holdinginterestsof25%and 30%,respectively CNOOC in its 2023 AnnualResultsrevealedthat the Lancetfish discovery, which was made in April 2023, averaged some 100 million tons, which is equivalent to 746 million barrels, according to the conversion formula of the Independent Petroleum AssociationofAmerica. Lancetfish is among the eightdiscoveriesmadesince the last resource update Also, yet to be added to the reserves are the Seabob-1 and Kiru-Kiru-1 wells, Sailfin-1, Yarrow-1, Fangtooth SE, Lancetfish-2 wells, and the recently announced Bluefin discovery

VPJagdeoduringapress conference in April said thereisnosignificantchange tothecountry’soilreserves. According to him, “Right now, there is an

withheld, that’s false I pointedouttoyouthatweget these reports every three months and the reports that we have state what the reserves areand thathas not changed materially over the past maybe year or so, so that’s not withholding informationthatwehave.”

President, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Alistair Routledge

Regional Leaders Recognises the Need to Revisit Lopsided Cricket Contract

At the recent cricket symposium, hosted in the twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the Prime Minister of that country called for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL)contracttoberelooked at. At the same event, a cricket legend questioned whosignsa50-yearcontract.

Rowley's comments were echoedbythePrimeMinister ofBarbados.Reportsindicate thatshecalledforthecontract to be scrutinised for any potential restrictions on trade and urged the utilisation of any available rights to renegotiatethecontract.

In the context of sports contracts, a restriction on trade typically refers to clauses or provisions within the contract that limit the freedom of athletes or teams to engage in certain activities or transactions that could a f f e c t t h e i r c a r e e r opportunities or earning potential. These restrictions can take various forms, such as non-compete clauses, trade restrictions, or limitations on endorsement deals.

Prime Minister Rowley has recognised, yet again, that contracts are not cast in s t o n e a n d c a n b e renegotiated.

His position however contrasts with that of Guyana's political leaders who, saddled with the most lopsided oil contract, have stubbornly refused to renegotiatesame.

Dr Keith Rowley is a seasoned leader. He is a pragmatic politician who understands the dynamics of contracts.

He recognises that no agreement is set in stone and that renegotiation is necessary to rectify imbalances.Hisstanceonthe

CPL contract is consistent with the stance he has taken in relation to unacceptable contracts in his country's energysector

He has successfully renegotiated some of those contracts to ensure that his countrygetsabetterdeal.

Speaking in Guyana in 2018, this is what he said in relation to renegotiating contracts: “We have respected the sanctity of contractswhilenotaccepting thatcontractsaresetinstone. Contracts are engagements made between two parties and when you make contracts, if there is goodwill between the participants, and if the intention is for both participants to benefit from the nature of the contract, we see the possibility and the opportunity for the contracts being revisited so as to maintain the balance of the elementsofthecontract.”

He had added then, “Sometimes in negotiations, you have to point out the shortcomings of others and they might point out shortcomings on your part. (But) we have no fear in raising our dissatisfaction with the performance of certaincontracts…”

Rowley'scallfortheCPL contract to be relooked at reflects a commitment to fairness and equity, crucial elements in fostering a sustainable cricketing ecosystem. We do not know President Ali's take on the CPLcontract.

He was reported to have said that the CPL was an opportunity and that it was important for all parties to work together to improve the WestIndiescricketbrand.

Despite attending the same symposium, Ali, in his presentation, did not comment on the CPL

contract. It would have put him in an uncomfortable position to have endorsed Prime Minister's Rowley's call for the contract to be relooked at, when Ali's own government refuses to do the same in respect to the P

ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC.

While preaching the sanctity of contracts, Ali's government is unwilling to conf

n

e adverse implications of a one-sided agreement with the oil companies.

His government has sought defending its stance by claiming it has to respect thesanctityofcontracts.

Rowley understands the long-termandwideeffectsof a lopsided CPL contract Lopsided agreements not only jeopardise the financial sustainability of franchises but also undermine the development of cricket at grassrootslevels.

Abetter deal would have ensured more resources for the development of West Indiescricket.

Ali was right about the CPL being an opportunity It is an opportunity for the region to obtain a better deal fromthefranchise.

Securing a better deal for the region from the CPL will elevate, rather than diminish, theWestIndiescricketbrand. A more favourable deal has thepotentialtoattractgreater investment and enhance the overa

ty and competitiveness of cricket in theregion.

By aligning contractual agreements with the interests of all stakeholders, including players, franchises, and cricket boards, the CPL can strengthen the integrity and credibility of the West Indies

DEM BOYS SEH

May Day means “Help!”

May Day become one big bacchanal! Is de day when dem unions does give back to dem workers. All year dem workers does be paying union dues.And demworkersdoesturnupatdeunionhall on May Day fuh dem box a food and free drinks.

cricketbrand.

The implications of lopsided contracts can have far-reaching consequences on the credibility and sustainability of the West Indiescricketbrand.

It can frustrate players andadministrators.

T h i s i s w h

Caribbean must take seriously Rowley's call for

renegotiation. Rowley's nononsense and proactive a p p

a c h s e t s a commendable precedent for addressing contractual imbalances.

His approach, however, contrasts markedly with the position of Guyana's leaders in relation to the major oil agreement where the mere

'renegotiation' reflexively leadstoadefensiveposture.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d

n o t necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Henextwukwasatadoughnutfactory Buthe saidhesoongettiredofde'whole'business. Henexttriedhehandsatbeingatailor But hesehhewasn't'suited'fordattypeofwuk.He started to print calendars, but he days fuh dat bin'numbered.’

Dem boys ask he what was de last wuk he do.Hesaidhewasanupholster.Demboysask he why he leff. He said he never 're-covered' fromit. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

Dat is wah May Day come to. Dem union leaders does try fuh mek speech. But dem workers nah gat time fuh all ah dat. Dem does be enjoying demselves andwhateverdemunionleaderssehdoes goinoneearandpassthroughdeother. Itreminddemboysaboutdemanwah neverkeepasteadyjob.Demboysaskhe howmuchwukhedoinhelifetimeandwhyhe left. He tell dem dat he fuss work was in an orange juice factory, but he couldn't

H@RD TRUTHS

Make the best of Labour Day, fellow Guyanese. Who labours for Guyana? We

Each new day in this country brings new revelations about the Guyana

tragedy Each new development confirms the growing encyclopedia of mental and political deficits that haunt this nation. I have encountered my share from the stout defenders of the PNC;Iambetterforit. There have been past flurries of from the sturdy lads and lasses in the PPP; more wisdom comes. Recently, the bad dogs in the PPP-from the top down-have set their sightsandhowledandlunged to denigrate and diminish, strengthening results. There must be something being done right, for all this attention, all the acrimonies, the vats of acids that scorch them more than they do to me. Hereisatextbookcase.

For 25 years and

c o u n t i n g , t h e P P P Government and PNC Government, the leaders and players in both, have been writtenabout. Icommended, I condemned. What started out small has grown in strength. The usual tirades anddiatribesfromcornermen and human cash vacuums

(suckers)inbothgroupswere quick to denounce. Mission accomplished. Since the arrival of oil, I have upped theante.Whentheprosperity and destiny of poor citizens, and from whose roots from I hail, reel under the threateningandtricky,thenit meantmorelaboursfromme. There are some likeminded Guyanese in this struggle for palpable pieces, the things tangible,butneitherofwhich has been seen nor sensed. I wish there were more citizens dedicated to a genuine Guyanese vision than the many that kiss the feet of Exxon (Woods, Routledge, et al) for a pat on the cheek, and whatever other considerations arranged. Because Bharrat Jagdeo is the head, I deal directly with him No second stringers. No night crawlers. Because Jagdeo has been how he has been: timid and fearful, cowardly and cowering,thespotlighthasto be beamed on his nervous countenance, his trembling postures, his distinguishing impotency Againandagain, I say this for all to absorb,

digest:VPJagdeodoeswhatI interpret to be his very best f o r G u y a n e s e ( f o r Guyanese), then I am his defender to the death. Areal advocate, and not one fueled by cash or contract or cushy job.

I would be his shield for free because he has tried, he has sacrificed, he has representedwithhisall. This is where the problems begin; theyaremanyandheavy Jagdeohasnoteventried. Hehastriedtricksandwhatis tawdry on Guyanese; what titillates his crowd. Jagdeo has not fought the good fight for Guyanese with this oil. He has fled and evaded and vacillated and obfuscated. Clumsily When Jagdeo has not obscured, he has been outrageous A former president pleased to slither where even ordinary citizens recoil from going. I pointed to these weaknesses repeatedly, and his wraths and that of his incentivized people, knew no limits Week after week in his press conferences, and for several running, Bharrat Jagdeo bared his fangs and unsheathed his claws. Wall

all must

Street work. Credentials. Local presence Local practices Religious pursuits And then some more. The record will show that I took all and sundry on the chin and rolled with what came.

The characteristic nastiness of the man. The ugly deformity of the public man, this leader imprisoned in his web of deceptions, s u b t e r f u g e s , a n d disingenuousness The record will show that I have never (never) slandered Bharrat Jagdeo, never accused him, never fabricated and falsified anythingabouthim. Ididnot reply in kind to the vile attacks. Jagdeo launched his dirty war with dirtier weapons while surrounded by the dirtiest people. I held myfire.

There are some lines I will not cross, not even for a maligner, sick character, like BharratJagdeo.

ButIdidtakehimtotask with knotted whips and the piercingprongsofwordsthat have caused untold distress inhimandhispeople. Don't, buster Mess with the wrong

man and unharnessed energy is unleashed But within the bounds of honesty and decency The record will so confirm. His peoplecrybuckets.

In the strongest and sharpest permissible language, Jagdeo has been flayed. Stripped. Exposed. Now his people cry like babies. Too much. Too tuff. These 'muddahs' cry for their baby Barry Bharrat - stand up and take medicine like a man. The dirty war began with him. Truth and standards are my weapons. I want none other I identify authentic oil stewardship and challenge Jagdeo not to be a patsy and pushover for Al

jackbooted members of Exxon's master race. Jagdeo stands for Guyana, and I stand with him. How many Guyanese are they going to kill?

How many turncoat Guyanese are they going to p a y s l y l y t o k i l l conscientious, patriotic republican citizens in different ways, by other

means ? I know of those, too, 'Mistah Jagdeo' Stop pressing thine face into the ground on which Exxon defecates. AndtothatPalace Guard of Guyanese brothers in the PPP and PNC, this I say: desist from eating the filth and drinking from the chamber pot that Exxon dumps on thine mouths opened to absorb such. This landismine.

Thisoilisours. Andfrom it, every Guyanese must know true prosperity and a lasting destiny That is the battle to be fought. This is whereJagdeoshouldbe. Not tangling with me. Then crying like a baby when national richness is under attack. To all Guyanese I say: be men for the national cause. Stop whining. Stop sniffling. Stop crying. Stop being either Alistair Routlegde'sorJagdeo'smice.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the o p i n i o n s o f t h i s newspaper.)

ExxontoensurenomoreinflatedinvoicestoGRA

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) President, Alistair Routledge, has assured that the company is committedtopreventingany recurrence of the recent incident involving an inflated invoice. Routledge made this commitment during a press conference heldatEMGL’sDukeStreet office in Kingstown, GeorgetownonTuesday R o u t l e d g e w a s questioned about the recent revelation of an inflated US$12.192 billion invoice submitted to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA)

byRampsLogisticsGuyana Incorporated (RLGI), on behalfofExxon. Kaieteur News had reported that Exxon and its former broker Ramps were flagged over a November 2023 declaration Ramps actedasthebrokerforExxon impo

US$4,467,662, but declared to Customs that the equipment was valued at US$12,192,103,923.91.

Exxon’s President responded, “We are always committed to working ethically, correctly, making

sure all of our submissions be for tax purposes or cost recoveryareaccurate.”

He continued, “We actually do every two years, we do a what we call a business practices review with all our employees to ensure they understand our expectations around reporting accurately, doing business correctly not having conflicts of interest with the business interest youknowanumberofother areas that we set very clear expectations if there is something that is not as it should have been then we

will learn from that to ensure, in fact we have already revisit the procedures around those submissionsasyoumayalso be aware the company is supporting us for those customsdutieshaschanged, so we don’t anticipate that sortofissuearisingagainbut we will learn and make sure w e p u t i n p l a c e everything…”

SUMMONS

While it was reported thatExxonandRampswere s

mmoned to cou

t Routledge informed reporters that the company did not receive any court summons. “We have not received any court summons...,”henoted.

According to copies of thesummonsdocumentseen by this publication both Exxon and Ramps were orderedtoappearincourtin relation with the false declaration made to the Revenue Authority It was statedthatExxononthe16th day of November, 2023 at Lot 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown, a place in the Georgetown Magisterial District, caused to be made and subscribed a false declaration to the Revenue Authority, to wit the defendant caused the value declared on invoice number INV# MVYT_1P07HP-006 dated on the 16th day of November, 2023 for a quantity of oil well equipmentandsuppliestobe v a l u e d a t USD$12,192,103,923 91 Similarly, Ramps’summons statedthatonthesamedate, Ramps made an untrue declaration to the Revenue Authority

Thestatementofoffence listed on the summons is, “Madeanuntruedeclaration to the Revenue Authority, contraryto215(1)(c)ofthe Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.”

According to the section 215 (1) of the CustomsAct, “Any person who, in any matter relating to the customs,orunderthecontrol or management of the Comptroller- Penalty for false declaration (c) makes or signs any declaration made for the consideration of any officer onanyapplicationpresented to him, the same being u n t r u e i n a n y particular…shall be liable on summary conviction to a fineoftwenty-fivethousand dollars together with imprisonment for three years.”

POSSIBLEPENALTY

Notably, if charged and convicted of making a false declaration to the GRA,

EMGL’s Guyana President, Alistair Routledge

Ramps Logistics Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shaun Rampersad

Exxon and Ramps face a mere GYD$25,000 fine, together with imprisonment forthreeyears.

Whilethepenaltyforthe allegedoffenceisminiscule, the inflated declaration is of significant concern as it could impact oil profits had itbeenapproved. According to the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) Guyana signed with the Exxon-led consortium for the Stabroek Block A provision in the PSAallows Exxon to deduct 75% of the revenues earned towards costrecoveryorrepayingthe investmentsbythecompany

The remaining 25% is then shared with Guyana as profit, meaning the country receives12.5%alongwitha 2%royalty

Notably, Routledge was asked if the company had alreadyaddedtheUS$12.92 billion as expenses to be recovered To this, Routledge assured that the expenseswillnotbeaddedto expenses.

“So what happens for duty submissions to GRA doesnotreflectwhatisgoing on, those numbers don’t directlygointowhatwestate into the cost recovery…so the equipment that is being importedyesthatwillbepart of the expenses but that number you won’t find the erroneous number in the expenses,”hesaid.

CORRECTINVOICE

During the press engagement, Routledge was

asked about the correct figurethatshouldhavebeen on the invoice that was submittedtoGRA. He explained, “I don’t havetheexactnumberbutit have been corrected for customs and they have received that, the GRA has the correct number, everythingwascaughtearly; no issues, nobody suffered any loss, everything was taking care of and so as I said, we have updated that procedure and the checks that are made to ensure that those sorts of errors are not repeated.”

BACKGROUND

Kaieteur News has reported that Exxon was informed that during the investigation Ramps submitted a missive to the Revenue Authority stating that it was contracted by Exxon to provide brokerage and freight forward service and attributed the erroneous declaration to information obtained from Exxon’s KABALsystem.

This publication understands th

December 11, 2023, Exxon representatives visited GRA to assist with the investigation, where enquiries were made in relation to Exxon’s conduct. Further, in response, Exxon in a letter dated December 13, 2023 claimed that it learned that Ramps, “incorrectly inputted USD as the currency of the commercial invoice on the referenced Customs declaration, in place of GYD; and the error resulted in an overstatement of the value of the items listed on the commercial invoice and consequently on the Customs declaration submittedbyyourbroker.”

In response to this, the RevenueAuthorityindicated t h a t E x x o n ’ s claims/explanation cannot be deemed as accepted in law, particularly since a statutorydutyisimposedon Exxon to verify and ensure thatallinformationdeclared to GRAby its broker is true andcorrect.

“In addition, evidence was obtained to prove that the untrue declaration was caused to be made and subscribed to the Revenue Authoritybyyourcompany As such, be guided accordingly that this act constitutes a breach of Section 217 (1) (a) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01,” GRA told the company

Exxon was given an opportunity to show cause whyproceedingsshouldnot Continuedonpage31

Scotiabank’sNet-ZeroResearchFundAnnounces2024Call forSubmissions

Scotiabank announced thatitisnowacceptinggrant submissions across its footprint, including Guyana for its Net-Zero Research Fund.

O r g a n i s a t i o n s developing innovative research and opportunities to decarbonize key sectors and support the shift to a low-carbon economy have until May 28, 2024, to submit a submission for funding, the bank said in a press release. Since 2021, Scotiabank’s Net-Zero

Research Fund has distributed CAD$3 million to more than 30 registered charities and non-profit organisations, across its operations conducting climateanddecarbonisation research.

Some projects that have received grants in the past fromtheFundinclude:

• Expanding carbon sequestration

• D e v e l o p i n g i m p r o v e m e n t s t o greenhouse gas emissions measurements

• Identifying policy and regulatorychangestoenable rapiddecarbonisation

• Increasing demand for lower or zero-carbon technologies

Scotiabank’s grants in 2024 will range from CAD $25,000 to CAD $100,000. Organisations must be

Nafeeza

Gaffoor –

Country Manager, Scotiabank Guyana

registeredcharitiesandnonprofit organizations to be eligible for the Scotiabank Net-ZeroResearchFund.

Visit Scotiabank’s Climate Change Centre of Excellence for information onpastwinners, submission eligibility and to apply. Nafeeza Gaffoor–CountryManager, Scotiabank Guyana commented“Wearemaking efforts to achieve environmental objectives across our operations and are collaborating with key partners, on efforts to address climate change and protect our environment. I look forward to seeing applicationsfromGuyanaas this Net-Zero Research Fund aligns well with our country’s low carbon developmentstrategy.”

MinisterEdghillheads

teamattending

ICAO’ssymposium

A delegation from Guyana comprising Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, and Mr Saheed Sulaman, Deputy Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is currently attending the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s 3rd Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) in PuntaCana,DominicanRepublic.

ThesymposiumbeganonApril30andwillconcludeon May 2nd, 2024, aMinistry of PublicWorks release stated. It is organised under the theme “Optimizing Aviation Capacity Strategies for Safe Skies, Sustainable Future,” underscores the crucial role of aviation in shaping a sustainablefuture.

TheGISS2024willaddressandhighlightICAO’slatest digital tools, key initiatives, and collaborative endeavours to support aviation resilience, foster innovation, promote sustainable development, and provide operational solutions

In addition, ICAO’s proposed Finvest Hub will delve into the need for greater partnerships and increased engagement between the aviation industry and financial institutions to achieve the goal of decarbonizing aviation by2050

The GISS 2024 will also explore the impact of air transport, tourism, and capacity development as key driversofeconomicresilience

ThePPP/CGovernmentcontinuestoinvestinthelocal aviation sector to modernise, transform, and create an environmentthatissecondtonone

Severalcountrieshaveunlimitedparentcompany guaranteesagainstoilspill,unlikeVPJagdeo,

Nandlall’s

misleadingstatements— Former EPA Head

…says present

The Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo and Minister ofLegalAffairsandAttorney General,Anil Nandlall, have inrecentdays,againgoneon the offensive disputing the existenceofUnlimitedParent

Company Guarantees (UPCG), but according to former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Vincent Adams, it must be a case of thetwobeingill-informed

Tothisend,Dr Adamsin a recent public missive in addressing the two said, “let thembeeducatedthatfirst,in

ExxonMobil Guyana subsidiary shields HQ from liabilities

countriessuchastheUSA,all operations are registered in the names of, and run by the majorcompaniesthemselves, and not by subsidiaries such asEMGL”

Further prefacing his argument, Dr Adams noted that in such cases, the parent company takes on all liabilities and cited “for instance, BP had to carry all liabilities in the Macondo spill Ontheotherhand,Shell Oil has been fighting an oil spill lawsuit brought by Nigerians, and Shell’s defence without a PCG, is

thatitisnotresponsibleforits subsidiary under which the spill occurred I would also advise that the VP and AG stop shooting from the hip and go read that similar UPCG exists in the UK, RussiaandGreenland.”

Compounding the situation, Dr Adams, was adamantthatintheabsenceof an UPCG and not insurance as is being touted, it is Exxon’s subsidiary, ExxonMobil Guyana that signedallofthePermitswith the UPCG, confirming their legalagreementwithit

“Further,EMGLformally agreed that operation of Liza 2 will not commence as scheduled in 2022, nor any new permits granted until EPA approves the UPCG letter as to how the three companies Exxon, CNOOC and HESS will share the UPCGliabilities”

To this end, he reminded that“wewereatthefinaldraft of that letter inAugust 2020, whenIwassentonleaveand the EPA young outstanding Attorneyhandlingthematter was also terminated Thereafter, Exxon with

backing of the PPP/C Government refused to complywiththeUPCG;thus, triggeringthelawsuitandthe overwhelmingly popular landmark decision by Judge Kissoon” Dr Adamsfurtherargues that“TheUPCGisnecessary, not only because there is no insuranceofthatsizetocover anoilspill,butalsobecauseit is a strategy by companies like Exxon to create Limited Liability Company (LLCs) like EMGL to insulate them from all liabilities. Since EMGLsignsalldocuments,it absolves Exxon of any liabilities I repeat for emphasis that EMGL has little or no assets to cover an oilspill”

To this end, he was adamant, “Jagdeo continues topedalhisidiocythatEMGL has some kind of fictitious $20 Billion USD in assets which could be seized The VP should have at least read theContracttolearnthatallof EMGL’s “movable, permanent and fixed” assets belongtoGuyana,andwillbe transferred “free of cost”, upon contract termination Laughably put, he is touting thattheGovernmentseizeits ownassets Myincessantcall isstillunansweredfortheVP to produce the US$20B list of assets that EMGL owns and don’t belong to Guyana.”

According to Dr Adams, “besides his foolishness about unlimited insurance, Nandlall’s and Jagdeo’s excuse for not having an UPCG,isthatitwillbankrupt Exxon, signifying that they are more distressed about Exxon’s bankruptcy, but obviously don’t care a hoot about the bankruptcy and environmental and health devastation of their own peopleandcountry” He further documented that it “the AG and VP are irresponsiblenottocareabout the lessons of the relatively

small spills in Peru and Tobago, without UPCG-like coverage”

To this end, he reminded thatinthelittle12,000barrels spillinPeru,theGovernment had to seize the passports of thecompany’sManagersand file a lawsuit to recover cleanupcostsinthe$Billions USD,followedbylegislating newlaws

More recently, in the 50,000 barrels Tobago spill, the Government, Dr Adams reminded, is left holding the bag, still searching for the liable parties Compounding the situation further, Dr Adamssaidthatbytweaking the permit, government is “recklessly fostering a triple whammy”

He explained that this obtains by government’s exceedingtheEnvironmental Impact Assessment, “prescribed safe operating limits that increases the risks of a spill; tripled the deployment time for the cappingstackto9daysfrom the 3 days set by the Coalition, allowing for an extra6-daygushingofoilinto the ocean; and at the same time, opposes the UPCG for full clean-up, though enhancing the risk and quantityofaspill.”

Additionally, he reminded that besides a well blow-out, there is a compounded risk of a spill from a ship plying the Caribbean fetching 1 million barrelsofGuyana’soil,daily

Former Head of the EPA, Dr. VincentAdams Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall

Morethan1400packsofcigarettes seizedbyGNBSinBerbice

Some of the cigarette seized during the GNBS exercise

The Guyana National

Bureau of Standards (GNBS) on Saturday last seized a large quantity of assorted cigarettes which do notmeettherequirementsof theNationalStandard“GYS 9-3:2014 Labelling of Tobacco Products” and the Tobacco Control Regulation of2018.

The non-compliant productswereofferedforsale in markets in Regions Five andSix,GNBSsaidinapress release With its mandate to protect consumers from substandard products, the GNBS’ Product Compliance

Department monitors seventeen (17) categories of products including cigarettes based on requirements of mandatory National Standards

Inspectors of the Department visited the Rosignol and Port Mourant Markets on Saturday, April 27, 2024, to conduct surveillance operations. During the exercise, it was discoveredthatatotalofone thousand four hundred and forty-seven (1,447) packs of cigarettes offered for sale failed to meet the specified requirements outlined in the TobaccoControlActof2018

The primary reason for the seizure was inadequate labelling. Additionally, key details including the display of a pictorial warning over 60% of the package, manufacturing date, batch numbers, and the required ‘For sale in Guyana only’ marking were missing from

the packets of the seized items.

The non-complaint packets of cigarettes comprised various brands, including Marshall, Milano, Atlantic, Nise, Covallo, B&D, Vess, Pine, Record, Kentucky,and51.

The detailed breakdown of the seized packets is as follows:

- Marshall: [197 Packs Seized]

- Milano: [63 Packs Seized]

- Atlantic: [258 Packs Seized]

-Nise[53PacksSeized]

- Covallo: [348 Packs Seized]

-B&D[96PacksSeized]

- Vess: [108 Packs Seized]

-Pine:[36PacksSeized]

- Record: [48 Packs Seized]

- Kentucky: [216 Packs Seized]

-51:[24PacksSeized]

The seized items will be destroyed. To avoid seizure of items, Importers and Dealers are reminded to ensure that their products adheretotherequirementsof the National Standard and Regulation.

O t h e r p r o

s monitored by the GNBS include Electrical and Electronic Appliances, Weighing and Measuring Devices,Textiles,Garments, Footwear, Safety Helmets, Safety Matches, Tyres, Gas Stoves, Cigarettes, PVC Pipes, Furniture, Toys and Playthings, Christmas Trees and Decorative Lighting, Cellular Phones, Gold Articles, Electrical EquipmentandFittings.

ExxonM banking on Guyana to sustain growth in face of declining global income

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ExxonMobil Corporation,DarrenWoods, is confident that in face of the declining revenues globally because of a lower price for natural gas and other industry-related commodities, there is still a bright future ahead for shareholdersinthecompany due to its investments in Guyana and expected returns.

“We’re making great progress on our plans to grow the earnings power of ourexistingbusinessesfrom investments in advantaged assets and higher-value products and further reduce structural costs The company spent nearly $6 billion on capital and exploration projects in the quarter.”Theseinvestments, he said, “will drive highmarginproductiongrowthin areas like Guyana, Brazil,

thePermianBasin,andLNG while increasing earnings fromitsproductsolutions.”

Guyana achieved quarterly gross production of more than 600,000 oilequivalentbarrelsperdayin bythetimetheExxonMobil Ledconsortiumoperatingin the Stabroek Block reached a final investment early last month on the sixth major development,Whiptail.

According, to Woods in reporting on the company’s performance for the first quarter of the fiscal year,

“We delivered a strong quarter with continued growthinadvantagedassets, such as Guyana, where production continues at higher-than-expectedlevels, contributing to historic economic growth for the Guyanesepeople.InProduct Solutions, our strong turnaround performance on cost and schedule helped

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ExxonMobil Corporation, Darren Woods

drive record first-quarter refiningthroughput.”

Tothisend,hereiterated “ looking ahead, we’re making great progress on our plans to grow the earnings power of our existing businesses from investments in advantaged assets and higher-value products,andfurtherreduce

structural costs We are investing in technology to transform the molecules derived from oil and natural gasintoproductsthatextend our reach into new, highvalue, high-growth markets tocaptureevengreatervalue from our core competitive advantages.”

To this end, he was

adamant strong advantaged volume growth primarily from Guyana and the Beaumont refinery expansion, and structural costsavingshelpedtooffset lower base volumes from divestments, unfavorable e n t i t l e m e

d curtailments, and higher expenses from scheduled maintenance With the recent approval of its sixth development project in the S t a b r o e k Block Whiptail Woods said, “the project will add about 250,000 BOE/d of capacity when it starts up in 2027.Exxonanditspartners also remain on track to complete Yellowtail next yearandUaruin2026.”

The company is also investing heavily in the Permian Basin. It has a potentially massive growth catalystonthehorizonfrom its pending $64.5 billion acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources. Adding Pioneer would more than doubleExxon’soutputinthe regionto1.3millionBOE/d. Meanwhile,itwillgiveitthe fueltogrowitsproductionto 2millionBOE/dby2027.

Reporting on Guyana’s contribution to the company’soverallportfolio, Woods reported that while its net overall production was 47,000 oil-equivalent barrels per day lower than the same quarter last year,

the growth in advantaged Guyana volumes more than offset the earnings impact from lower base volumes d

unfavorable entitlement effects.

He additionally reported that excluding the impacts

curtailments, net production grew 77,000 oil-equivalent barrelsperdaydrivenbythe start-up of the Payara development in Guyana Payara reached nameplate capacity of 220,000 barrels per day in mid-January, a

, demonstrating excellence in project execution and operations.Exxon,unlikeits Stabroek Block consortium partners,reportedlowerthan expected earnings globally Indeclaringrevenuesearned in its financial report yesterday, the corporation said its “first-quarter earnings were US$8 2 billion versus US$11 4 billion in the first quarter of 2023.” To this end, it was explained that its upstream first-quarter earnings were US$5.7billion,adecreaseof US$797 million compared to thesamequarterlastyear while the prior-year period was a

y impacted by tax-related identifieditems.”

Guyaneseinthedark...

Frompage3

power reminded that the agreement states that Urbacon Concessions Investment WLL will be paid US$ 0.0662 per KWhasmonthlyrentalandUS$0.0098perKwhasoperation andmaintenancecharges–atotalofUS$0.076perkWhfor theof36MW,“aseeminglyminusculeamount,howeverthe devilhasalwaysbeeninthedetails.”

Expounding further, Patterson reasoned that the 36MW plantx24hours=864MWatmaximumdailygenerationand withitsprojectedavailability96percentofthiswouldmeana projected daily generation of the equivalent of 830,000 kilowatts.

AccordingtoPatterson,830,000kilowattsxUS$0.076= US$63,080perdayandassuchUS$63,080x365daysx2= US$46,048,400.00(2-yearcontract).

Jagdeo in his response to Patterson’s calculation last Thursdaysaidthathiscalculationwasincorrectandthatheis misleadingthenation.Hequestioned,“howcanPattersonsay thatthecostforthepowershipisoverUS$200million,when his (Patterson) own calculation at 55 US cents per kilowatt hourprojectsthecosttobearoundUS$44millionforthetwoyear-period.”

Jagdeosaid,thetrue,finalrentalcostforthevesselisnot US55 cents per kilowatt hour but when asked to give the mediathecorrectandaccuratecost,hefailedtodoso.

“I just said that the fuel is US13 to US14 Cents per kilowatt hour (to supply the fuel) if you add to that the 7.6 cents per kilowatt hour, you are coming around to 21 or 22 cents per kilowatt hour which it costs to generate elsewhere toonot55centsperkilowatthour,”Jagdeosaid.

Insteadofclarifyingorprovidingfurtherclarity,theVice President told the media to return to Patterson to have the figuresclarified.

Man sleeps outside ex-lover’s window despite restraining order

Fearful for her life, an Essequibo woman decided to share her story publicly that her abusive ex was sleeping outside of her windowdespiteacourtorder restraining him from being aroundher

The woman told Kaieteur News that the situation has her very uncomfortable and scared. The frustrated woman said the police were informed and an investigation has been launched into the matter

Up until press time, the woman was still assisting investigators with pertinent information and was unable toprovideathoroughupdate atthetime.

Meanwhile, Kaieteur News understands that the woman was severely batteredbythemanrecently Further, it was revealed that themanhasbeenabusingthe womanforsometimenow

Due to the persistent abuse, the woman reported the matter to the police and received a restraining order Despite the order, the man hasbeenstalkingthewoman andsheisfearfulforherlife.

ongoing.

The abusive ex2

Aphoto the woman shared of her battered face

The man sleeping outside the woman’s window

Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue 2024 focused on addressing shared security concerns

Guyana’s Minister of H o m e A ff a i r s , Robeson Benn, along with Chief–of-Staff, Brigadier OmarKhan,onTuesdayledahighlevel team from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in bilateral discussions with visiting delegations from France and Suriname, as part of the Guiana ShieldStrategicDialogue2024.

Tuesday’s discussion which took place at the Ramada Princess Hotelmarkedtheseconddayofthe strategic dialogue, following the signing of the Common Security Master Plan between Guyana, French Guiana and Suriname on Monday

The meeting aims to facilitate productive discussions and collaborationamongthecountries, focusing on technical and operationalaspectssuchasserious crimes, border issues, climate change and joint land and sea patrolstocombatillicittrafficking.

Minister Benn and Brigadier Khan met separately with each participating country to further strengthen bilateral relations and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The dialogues underscored the commitment of all parties to fostering peace, security, and

prosperitywithintheGuianaShield region As neighbours sharing common challenges and opportunities,Guyana,France,and Suriname reaffirmed their dedication to collaboration and coordination in addressing shared securityconcerns.

The visiting guests included His Excellency Mr Nicolas De Lascoste, the FrenchAmbassador; Brigadier General Christophe

Perret, Head of Directorate of InternationalandEuropeanAffairs (DAEI) of the French Ministry of Home Affairs; Her Excellency Krishnakoemarie Mathoera, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Suriname; and M. Jean-Jacques Forte, Charge D’Affaires at the French Embassy inSuriname.

Moreover,MinisterBenninhis welcoming remarks on Monday

emphasised the importance of the meeting,statingthatitwillserveas a forum for robust discussions, collaboration and strategic planningaimedatstraighteningthe framework of the Guiana Shield StrategicDialogue. He further highlighted the importance of harnessing the spirit of collaboration, innovation and solidarity to chart a course that not only addresses current

security challenges but also anticipates and prepares for evolvingthreats

The Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue is a crucial initiative that highlights the participating countries’ commitment to enhancing security and defense cooperation, as well as fostering sustainable development and environmental conservation in the region.

Day two of bilateral discussions as part of the Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue 2024

GoldenGrovesupermarketdestroyedinearlymorningblaze

A supermarket located at Lot 6 East Half Section ‘A’ GoldenGrove,EastCoastDemerara(ECD),wasonTuesday morning destroyed by fire. The two-storey wooden and concrete structure is reportedly owned by 43-year-old ChineseNationalCheliezhu.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) in a statement said that around 04:23hrs, a report was received of an inferno. As such, a water carrier from Melanie Fire Station, a water tender from Mahaica Fire Station, and an ambulance were dispatched,carrying7950litersofwater

Efforts by firefighters proved to be futile, as the intense blaze rendered the supermarket building completely destroyed. Firefighting operations saw two jets deployed from the water carrier and water tender, utilising tank supplies to combat the flames. Subsequent efforts involved drawingwaterfromanopensourcetoquellthefire.

Thecauseofthefireremainsunderinvestigationbyboth Fire Prevention officials and the police. Notably, the Fire Servicedisclosedthatatthetimeofthefire,therewerenofire suppressionsystemsinplaceattheestablishment.

Moreover,anadjacentbuildingonthewesternsideofthe supermarket also suffered damages due to the intense heat radiated by the fire. This wooden and concrete building, whichisutilisedasaprivatedwelling,experiencedminimal damage, including the loss of 3 meters of louvers window and slight scorching on the eastern side of the top floor externalwall.

In light of the fire, authorities are urging citizens to prioritise fire safety by equipping their homes and businesses with essential firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, smoke alarms, and sprinkler systems Prevention remains paramount, and individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant and implement precautionary measures to mitigate the risk of fire-relatedincidents

The aftermath of the blaze

$96MNaamyrckBackdam roadsatisfactorilycompleted

Works on the $96M Naamryck Backdam Road at the Parika, Region Three have been completedonMonday

TheroadswereinspectedbytheMinistry of Public Works and the stamp of approval was given by both the Ministry and the residents of the community, the Department ofPublicInformation(DPI)reported.

Earlier this month, it was reported that subject minister Juan Edghill flayed the contractorsforsubstandardworkontheroad. The minister visited the community at the behestoftheresidentswhocomplainedabout thequalityofworkdoneontheroad.

Upon his inspection, he ordered the contractor to correct the asphaltic concrete pavements to meet the standards and

technical specifications outlined in the contract. Despite the setbacks, the revised work on the road was completed ahead of schedule.

Shoulderworkwillbeconductedafterthe asphalt has cured to ensure the durability of the newly paved surface during future constructionactivities.

Furthermore, the ministry is working on thepaperworkandnegotiatingmarketprices toprovideconcretepathwaysleadingtoeach householdalongtheroute,aimingtoenhance convenienceforresidents.

In response to community needs, modifications have been made to speed humps to improve the smooth passage, especiallyforfarmerstransportingproduce.

ERCSALUTESWORKERS ONLABOURDAY2024

HAPPY LABOUR DAY GPSU mobilising for workers' empowerment HAPPY LABOUR DAY

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends heartfelt appreciation to all Guyanese as we celebrate Labour Day, a significant occasion dedicated to honouring the contributions of workers across our nation. LabourDayservesasatribute to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of workers from all walks of life who contribute tirelessly to the development and prosperity of Guyana. It is a day to recognise the invaluable role of workers in driving our economy forward, building our communities, and shaping the future of our nation. Trade unions regard the occasion as a time to take stock of the gains made and challenges faced by the labour movement over the past year. Their underlying focusispremisedonworkers' rights. Labour Day also provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of unity and solidarity among workers of different backgrounds and ethnicities.

In a diverse society like Guyana, it is essential that we cometogether,inharmony,to support each other and work towards common goals that benefit all. The mandate of the ERC is synonymous with promulgating good relations withintheworkenvironment.

T h e C o m m i s s i o n , therefore, embraces any initiativetoempowercitizens of all ethnic groups through education and training to equip them for Guyana's accelerating economy The ERC remains committed to workingwithallstakeholders in promoting a work environment that engenders peace, diversity and tolerance. Let us recognise a n d c e l e b r a t e t h e contributions of workers in every sector, and let us strive to create a society where every worker is valued, empowered, and treated with dignityandrespect.

Happy Labour Day to All!

E t h n i c R e l a t i o n s Commission

May 1, 2024 marks an historic day in the history of the Trade Union Movement

i n G u y a n a a n d internationally As is customary, Workers celebratethisdayinunityby joining with their Trade Union Leaders in parades and rallies throughout the Ten Administrative Regions ofGuyana.

Time is spent reflecting on the struggles and achievements of our forefathers and to the forging of new relations to overcome the challenges ahead, while taking advantage of opportunities presented.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) wouldbeparticipatinginthe annual parade through the Streets of Georgetown and other regions of Guyana. The theme for this year's celebration is 'Galvanizing and Mobilizing for Workers' Empowerment and an Equal ShareoftheOilWealth'.

As an Affiliate of the P u b l i c S e r v i c e s International, the GPSU endorses its statement that “Public Service Workers are the foundations of the struggleforpeace,solidarity and democracy amidst escalating conflict and crises”.

The Trade Union Movement provides a common platform to approach common issues in pursuit of economic and socialjusticefortheworkers

of Guyana and the movement worldwide in the advancement of their interests.

There is growing poverty among the population, human rights

violations, abuse of democratic institutions, rosion of the rule of law, Occupational safety and Heal

inequality, among other seriousconcerns.

E

T h e S o c i

, including trade agreements must place the people, safety, health and jobs beforeprofit,toensureajust dealforabetterlifeforall.

The GPSU maintains that the resources of a country therefore, must be used to benefit its people, andtheremustbeequalityin itsdisbursement.

The GPSU would be making a presentation on May 1, 2024 at the May Day After-Parade Rally at the Guyana Teachers Union Sports Hall, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown. Dr. GeraldForde,Economicand Project Officer of the GPSU Executive Council, would beourPresenter.

The Executive Council of the GPSU fully endorses Dr Forde statements on issues that perforates the SocietyinGuyana.

T h e G P S U a l s o reiterates that workers that implementthepoliciesofthe government, and make them look good, must be paid a livingwage.

Mr Patrick M.Yarde PRESIDENT/CEO

GAWU salutes Critchlow's contributions as Labour Week commences

As we approach the commencement of Labour Week on April 28, 2024, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union ( G AW U ) f i n d s t h e opportunity befitting to recognise and recall the significant and varied contributions of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, rightly deemed the “Father ofTrade Unionism” in our country Critchlow's contributions to the upliftment and advancement of the working people of our country have been recorded in history as a testament to his unwavering belief and commitment to his principles of justice for theworkingclass.

Critchlow's defence of workers emerged during a great upheaval in British Guiana. At that time, the pressures on the working classweremounting,andthe owner class, though able, was unwilling to ease the burdens the workers were made to carry Indeed, it must have been a rude awakening when the waterfront workers, under the leadership of Critchlow,

decided to down tools and demand fairness and justice.

For his efforts, Critchlow was asked to withdraw his demands or be sent home. He chose the latter, and it was a clear demonstration of where his loyalties stood. Indeed, it must have earned him the respect and admirationofhiscolleagues, more so in the face of the immense pressure he would havefaced.

His later establishment oftheBritishGuianaLabour Union (BGLU) was a clear signal of his commitment to working-class aspirations andideals.

H e w o u l d h a v e undoubtedly faced great difficulty and hardship to reach the pinnacle of the BGLU, but his perseverance and determination brought him to that high point Critchlow's later efforts in leading the regional trade union efforts and his demands in favour of the working class were clear indicators of how he regarded the workers' involvement.

Critchlow's experience

in the workers' struggle led him to the view that the established capitalist system was not beneficial to the working class. In December 1930, in an address to members of his union, he called for workers to fight against capitalism and to s t r u g g l e f o r t h e establishment of socialism. Notably as well Critchlow championeddemandsforthe extension of the right to vote so that all workers could participate in national elections.

The GAWU urges that in our celebration of Labour Week, we as a class within society should take account of the advances, we have made since Critchlow and keep before us the challengesthatstilllieinour path.

Webelievethattogether, we can overcome those obstaclesandblazeapathfor a better tomorrow – a path that can fittingly honour the memory of our workingclass hero –Hubert NathanielCritchlow Happy May Day to All GuyaneseWorkers.

UN Chief calls for independent probe into Gaza mass graves

Antonio Guterres says it is 'imperative' that independent investigators are allowed the immediate access to mass graves in Gaza to determine the circumstances behind the deaths.

A

Nations chief Antonio Guterres has demanded an independent investigation into reports by Palestinian authorities of mass graves discovered in Gaza after bodies with hands tied or medical tubes attached to them were found in multiple sites, including two hospitals.

“It is imperative that independent international investigators with forensic expertise are allowed the immediateaccess to thesites of these mass graves to establish the precise circumstances under which the Palestinians lost their lives and were buried or reburied,” Guterres said on Tuesday

The UN secretary-

general also urged Israel against invading southern Gaza's city of Rafah, the last refuge for more than 1.4 million Palestinians, after the Israeli prime minister said an offensive would go forward regardless of the outcome of truce talks with Hamas.

A military assault on Rafah would “be an unbearable escalation, killing thousands more civilians and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee,”hetoldreporters.

Headdedthatwhilethere has been “incremental progress” towards averting “an entirely preventable, human-made famine” in northernGaza,muchmoreis urgently needed, including for Israel to follow through

on its promise to open “two crossing points between Israel and northern Gaza, so that aid can be brought into Gaza from Ashdod port and Jordan”.

He cited the lack of security for aid workers and civilians as the major obstacle to distributing aid across Gaza. “I again call on the Israeli authorities to allow and facilitate safe, rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid and humanitarian workers, i n c l u d i n g U N RWA , throughoutGaza,”hesaid.

UNRWACommissionerGeneral Philippe Lazzarini told journalists on Tuesday that aid supplies into Gaza had improved in April, but listed a series of continuing difficulties including regular

crossing closures “because they [Israel] are dumping released detainees or dumping sometimes bodies taken to Israel and back to theGazaStrip.”

Juliette Touma, a spokesperson for the UN's refugee agency for Palestinians, said that Israel had sent 225 bodies to Gaza in three containers since December that were then transported by the UN agency to local health authorities for burial, shutting the crossing temporarily She did not have details of the circumstances of their deaths and said it was not UNRWA's mandate to investigate.

Palestinian authorities have previously said that

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio

says Israel's military assault on Rafah would 'be an unbearable escalation' [File: Eduardo

Israel has returned bodies after confirming they were not hostages. They said they were trying to identify them and figure out where they werekilled.

Tensions are high betweenIsraelandUNRWA, with the former accusing 19 U N R W A s t a f f o f involvementintheOctober7 Hamas-led attack against Israel that killed at least 1,139 people, according to an Al Jazeera tally based on

Israelistatistics.

Israel's allegations are being examined by UN investigators although a separate review found Israel has yet to provide evidence for accusations that hundreds of UNRWA staff are members of armed groups.

More than 34,000 people have been killed in Israel's waronGazasinceOctober7, according to Palestinian authorities.

Columbia University threatens to expel students occupying building

NEW YORK, April 30

(Reuters) - Columbia University officials on Tuesday threatened academic expulsion of students who seized and occupied a classroom building as the standoff between administrators and proPalestinian activists on the Manhattancampusintensified.

The occupation began overnight when protesters broke windows and entered Hamilton Hall, where they unfurled a banner

r e a d i n g " H i n d ' s H a l l , " symbolically renaming the building for a 6-year-old Palestinian child killed in Gaza by theIsraelimilitary

Outsidethebuilding-thesiteof various student occupations on the Ivy League campus dating back to the 1960s - protesters blocked the entrancewithtables,linkedarmsto form a barricade and chanted proPalestinianslogans.

Adayearlier,theuniversitysaid it had begun suspending students who defied a deadline for vacating a tent camp that has become a focal point for dozens of student demonstrations around the U.S. expressing opposition to Israel's

warinGaza."Theencampmenthas created an unwelcoming environment for many of our Jewish students and faculty and a noisy distraction that interferes with the teaching, learning and preparing for final exams," the university said in a statement on Monday The Oct 7 attack on southern Israel by Hamas militants from Gaza, and the ensuing Israeli offensive on the Palestinian enclave,haveunleashedthebiggest outpouring of student activism since the anti-racism protests of 2020.

At some recent rallies, protesters have been met with counter-protesters accusing them of fomenting anti-Jewish hatred. The pro-Palestinian side, including Jewish activists opposed to the Israeli actions, say they are being unfairly branded as antisemitic for criticizing Israel's government and expressing support for human rights.In dealing with the protests, university officials have struggled to strike a balance between allowing freedom of expression andstampingouthatespeech.

The issue has taken on political

Protestors gather at the gates of Columbia University, in support of student protesters who barricaded themselves in Hamilton Hall, despite orders from university officials to disband or face suspension, during the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in New York City, U.S., April 30, 2024. REUTERS/David Dee Delgado

White House spokesperson John Kirby on Tuesday denounced non-peaceful forms of student protests, calling the occupation of

Guterres

Munoz/Reuters]

Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana ink Security Master Plan

Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana signed a security Common Master Plan on Monday, in a landmark move to bolster regionalsecurityanddefence.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the signing ceremonytookplacefollowingadayofintensivedialogueamong the three countries and Brazil. The Ministry said that the signing of the Master Plan marks a pivotal step towards enhancing cooperationandaddressingsharedsecuritychallenges.

The dialogue highlighted the critical importance of a unified approach to understanding the strategic defence and security environment. Special emphasis was placed on collaborative effortstocombatsecuritythreatsandaddresschallengesaffecting the populations, territories, maritime space, and interests of the countries.

Moreover,itwasunderscoredthatthesigningoftheCommon SecurityMasterPlanisamajorachievementinthejointeffortsof Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and Brazil to protect their citizensandterritories.

Further, the Ministry said that the collaboration demonstrates the countries' commitment to regional security cooperation and setsthestageforasaferandmoreprosperousfuture.

The signing ceremony was followed by a cocktail reception hosted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown.

Granted bail:

Man on $150,000 bail for allegedly stealing iPhone and case

A 30-year-old man was granted $150,000 when he appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Diamond Magistrates'CourtonMondaytoanswertoaburglarycharge.

The accused, Ziggy Forde also called 'Fabulous' and 'Bumps' of Friendship Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara (EBD), made his first court appearance at the Diamond Magistrates'Court,wheretheburglarychargewasreadtohim. Hepleadednotguilty

FordeisaccusedofstealinganiPhonevalued$109,000and a phone case valued at $2000 from a dwelling house at New Hope,EBD.

Magistrate Scarce placed Forde on $150,000 bail. He is set toreturntocourtonJune11,2024

Representatives of French Guiana, Guyana and Suriname on Monday at the signing of the security Common Master Plan Timehri man jailed for breaking and entering a place of worship

A 34-year-old man of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was sentenced to six months imprisonment on Tuesday, when he appeared at the Diamond Magistrates' Court, to answer a break andenteraplaceofworship charge.

Fadil Shaw made his first court appearance before Senior Magistrate Dylon Bess. Shaw pleaded guiltyandwassentenced.

A 28-year-old miner, who is accused of assaulting a 51-year-old business woman, was on Monday remanded to prison, when he appearedattheBarticaMagistrates' Court.

The accused Roy John, a resident of Friendship Village, P

oon River, Region Two, made his first court appearance before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed, to answer a feloniouswoundingcharge.

John pleaded not guilty to the charge that alleged him on Thursday; he assaulted Holly Monderson at Issano Landing, Middle Mazaruni, Region Seven after she refused a proposition he made.

A c c o r d i n g t o p o l i c e , Monderson was standing outside of a camp when John approached her and made a proposition, to which she reportedly refused. Following her denial, John allegedly became annoyed and assaulted her, causing hertoreceivelacerationstoherface andbody

Areport was subsequently filed andJohnwasarrestedandplacedin custody at the Enachu Police Station.

Thereafter, Monderson was laterreferredtotheBarticaHospital formedicaltreatment.

Meanwhile, Magis

e MohameddeniedJohnbail. He is scheduled to return to courtonMay20,2024.

Man remanded forpossession of narcotics

Thirty-two-year-old Michael Calvan of Phase 2 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown was on Tuesday remanded to prison, when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court to answer a possession of narcotics charge with the purposeoftrafficking.

Calvan made his first court appearance before Chief Magistrate Sherdell Isaacs-Marcus, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty to the charge which allegedthatonFridayatEastLaPenitenceSquattingarea,he hadnarcoticsinhispossession.

Police reported that a search was conducted on Calvan, which lead to the discovery of the narcotics. He was told of theoffence,cautionedandarrested.

Calvanwasremandedtoprisonandisscheduledtoreturn tocourtonMay17,2024.

Jailed: Fadil Shaw

Ziggy Forde

Remanded: Roy John

Remanded: Michael Calvan

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One night Watchman needed. For more information Call: 612-2125.

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Exxon to ensure no more inflated invoices...

From page 12 be instituted against them in accordance with the Customs Act. Notably, it was stated that if Exxon fails to respond within 14 days of the letter, the Revenue Authority will be forced to take the necessary action against the company.

Additionally, according to another document submitted to the Revenue Authority by Exxon stated, “We thank you for your letter of 18th March, 2024, in which you have invited ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) to show cause why proceedings should not be instituted against EMGL in accordance with the provisions of Section 217(1)(a) of the Customs Act Cap. 82:01 in connection with Customs Declaration GY 410 2023 C2612 dated November 16, 2023.”

Exxon’s response to the Revenue Authority made several claims: that it was not the declarant and has not

made any false declaration, that the declaration was made by Ramps, that it (Exxon) has not made and subscribed or caused to be made and subscribed any false declaration, that any error made by Ramps was a typographical error which did not inure to the detriment of or cause any loss to the Revenue Authority, that to the best of EMGL’s knowledge all information that was available to Ramps from the KABAL platform was accurate and any error was not caused by Exxon.

Moreover, the oil company also told GRA that under its contract, Ramps had an obligation to review and verify all inbound shipping documentation (such as bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, etc.) and work to ensure that all such documentation was accurate and correct and met customs requirements of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. RLGI

was contractually obligated to review and verify all relevant shipping information before preparing and submitting the declaration.

“In these circumstances, there are no apparent circumstances why proceedings ought to be instituted against EMGL as a matter of fact or law. EMGL is ready to engage with the Guyana Revenue Authority in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation to address any remaining concerns that the Authority may have on this matter,” Exxon further stated.

Additionally, back in 2022, GRA’s Law Enforcement and Investigations Division instituted 10 charges in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for false declarations made by Ramps Logistics. In April 2023, Ramps in a statement said that it had been cleared of all charges brought by the Revenue Authority.

Columbia University threatens to expel students...

From page 29 Columbia University spokesperson said the protesters had chosen to escalate an "untenable situation" and that the school's top priority is safety and order on campus."The work of the university cannot be endlessly interrupted by protesters who violate the rules. Continuing to do so will be met with clear consequences," spokesperson Ben Chang said in a statement. He said students occupying the building face expulsion.

The school also said it was restricting access to university grounds to students living on campus and employees providing essential services.A representative of the protesters who identified herself only as a graduate student told reporters outside Hamilton Hall that about 60 students were believed to be inside.A few dozen students, some with tambourines, milled about outside the barricaded doors, clapping and chanting, "The people united will never be defeated," and "Free Palestine!"

Pizzas were passed to students inside the building in a plastic crate dangled from a pulley rope suspended from an upper-floor balcony.

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One of the lead negotiators for the coalition of student protest groups said Co-

lumbia officials contacted him through mediators to ascertain the demands of the activists.

"Once they decide to come back to the table we can talk about demands," said Mahmoud Khalil, who said he was off-campus. "These students felt hurt and abandoned by the administration because it did not listen to their demands, so they had to do things differently.”

On Monday, Columbia began suspending pro-Palestinian activists, including Khalil, who the university said had refused to leave the protest camp when school officials declared a stalemate in talks to end the encampment.

University President Nemat Minouche Shafik said in a statement that days of negotiations had failed to persuade demonstrators to remove the dozens of tents set up on a hedge-lined campus lawn.

New York City police cleared the original tent complex on April 18 and made more than 100 arrests, stirring an outcry by many students, faculty members and employees.

Protesters are demanding that Columbia meet three demands: divestment from companies that support Israel's government, transparency in university finances, and amnesty for students and faculty disciplined for their part in the protests.

Shafik this week said Columbia would not divest from finances in Israel. Instead, she offered to invest in health and education in Gaza and make Columbia's direct investment holdings more transparent.

ARRESTS IN CALIFORNIA

Students at dozens of campuses from California to New England have set up similar tent encampments to demonstrate their anger over the Israeli operation in Gaza.

At Cal Poly Humboldt University, police early on Tuesday swarmed the campus, where students were occupying a school building, and starting detaining people, local media reported.

Police on Monday had declared the protest an unlawful assembly and warned people they faced arrest if they did not disperse.

Civil rights groups have criticized law enforcement tactics on some campuses where police have clashed with protesters and have used chemical irritants.

Police detained about 30 protesters at their encampment at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill early on Tuesday, according to a university statement, noting that students had trespassed into classroom buildings overnight.

At the University of Texas at Austin, police arrested dozens of students whom they hit with pepper spray at a proPalestinian rally on Monday.

Cricket West Indies VP Azim Bassarath dismissesGCBlegalactionas'laughable'

SportsMax - Cricket West Indies (CWI) Vice PresidentandPresidentofthe Trinidad and Tobago Cricket

Board (TTCB), Azim Bassarath, has dismissed the legal action taken by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) against CWI as laughable, especially given their organization's recent history with alleged questionable elections at the territorialboardlevel.

On April 20, the GCB a n n o u n

w a s

m m

n g l e g a l proceedings against CWI, continuing its year-long allegation that Bassarath was unlawfully elected vice president.

This move comes despite CWI's statement on October 7, 2023, w

GCB's concerns and confirmed that theelectionwasconductedin accordance with the organization's Memorandum andArticlesofAssociation.

According to CWI's statement: “The Board of Cricket West Indies has thoroughly examined the matters raised by the Guyana Cricket Board and wishes to assure all stakeholders that the election for the post of Vice President was conducted in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles ofAssociation of the o r g a n i z a t i o n C W I

recognizes the importance of transparency and fairness in all its operations, including elections, and is committed to upholding the highest standardsofintegrity.”

Speaking after last weekend's conclusion of the two-day CARICOM cricket symposium in Trinidad, Bassarath, in an interview w i t h S p o r t s m a x t v, responded to the GCB's legal action.

“As long as I've been a CWI director, unfortunately, the Guyana Cricket Board has been the one and only shareholder whose elections were accused of being unlawful. Guyana's board is the only instance where CWI

Wednesday May 01, 2024

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19

Your feelings may deceive you, Aries, so be careful of getting too wrapped up in yourowndrama.Perhapsyou feel you're getting pushed and pulled in uncomfortable directions.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)

In some ways, you may feel likealostsoulwhoisn'tquite in touch with your dreams, Taurus. Although you feel energetic and boisterous, you might also get the sense that yourenergyismisdirected.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

The best way to create harmony among others is to first establish harmony in yourself, Gemini Don't expect others to take care of you and attendtoallyourdesires.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

You might feel as if your powerful emotions are getting in the way of your dreams,Cancer

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Perhaps you're stuck in a mindset you can't seem to escape,Leo.Becarefulabout taking action based on ideas rooted more in past fantasy thanpresentreality

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)

When you talk, you want other people to listen, Virgo. More than likely, your thoughts will drift toward humanitarian ideas and philosophies. You're eager to shareyourideaswithothers.

was forced to stop international cricket from being played in a territory d u e t o g o v e r n m e n t intervention, which went against both CWI and ICC positionsagainstgovernment intervention in sport Therefore, I genuinely find it laughable what Mr Singh is doing,consideringtheGCB's history.”

Sportsmax tv has obtained the original letter sent by the GCB to CWI under then-President Ricky Skerritt ahead of the March 25, 2023 election, which contradicts the assertion in the GCB's April 20, 2024, letter that one of the reasons for withdraw

Azim Bassarath

nomination of Bassarath was d u e t o m i s c o n d u c t allegations against the TTCB.

In the letter, the GCB only cited Article 92 of the CWIArticlesofAssociation.

B a s s a r a

o q u e s t i o

S i n g h ' s administration of affairs in Guyana: “Mr Singh joined

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Issues regarding control of a situation are probably going to be your focus, Libra. More than likely, you adhere to a solidlyplannedroutine.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

You're apt to speak and act with a great deal of power, Scorpio, but be careful that you don't get swept away by

surrealisticqualitytotheday

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

Your concept of reality could be based more on your emotions than facts, Sagittarius. This is one of those days when this could get you into trouble. Whatever comes up, you're likely to feel very passionate aboutit.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

This is your day to shine, Capricorn. Just make sure you don't do so at someone else'sexpense.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)

You may feel like you're beingleftoutoftheequation, Aquarius. Perhaps you feel like the oddball, the fifth wheel who simply doesn't haveaplace.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Takeyourcreativitytoanew level, Pisces There are many ways to express yourself creatively, so pick one and follow through You may have a desire to be on stage.

CWI in 2021, and I have no clear information as CWI vice president about when localcricketelectionsaredue in Guyana, unlike other territorial boards This is concerning, considering the history of Mr Singh's predecessor at the GCB Similar to me, he created all sorts of alleged unlawful acts to remove former Guyana director Hilbert Foster, which surprised many on the CWI board. Mr. Foster, from the area of Berbice, as we are seeing around the Caribbean with the young Shamar Joseph, is producing many talented West Indies players.”

Bassarath concluded by urging his Guyanese counterparttofollowthelead ofGuyaneseheadofstateDr Irfaan Ali, who is taking productive actions to benefit Caribbeancricket.

“Wesawtheeye-catching presentation by Guyana's Head of State Dr Ali at the symposium, and we already seewhathehasbeendoingin recent years with the CPL cricketcarnival.

So, just like our Trinidad & Tobago Prime Minister, the honorable Keith Rowley, who organized this fantastic symposium, Singh should spend more time seeking to create cricket-focused initiatives for the benefit of Guyana and West Indies cricket.”

Windiestotest...

From page 35 latter at the Guyana National StadiumonJune2.

Grave urged fans to come out and rally behind the West Indies outfit in their push to startthetournamentonahigh.

“Making sure we have a huge party in Georgetown, and we get off to a winning start (will be crucial). We all know in these global tournaments, confidence and momentum are important and wecanthinkofnothingbetter than starting with a victory in Guyana and ending it in Barbados on June 29 with a similarvictory,”Gravesaid.

GCB T10 Blast tournament…

Barnwell, Barrington among top performers as T10 action continues

-

Jaguars, Pitbulls secure wins

Shemroy Barrington missed out on a half-century but nevertheless helped his team secure the Win.

Archer

Archer included in England's T20 World Cup squad

SportsMax - JofraArcher has been recalled to England's provisional squad for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and United States this June.

The 29-year-old, who has notplayedcompetitivecricket since May due to a long-term elbow injury, could make his first appearance for the internationalteamsinceatour ofBangladeshinMarch2023.

Archer has been limited to just 15 T20Is since his England debut in 2019 and missed their 2022 World Cup success inAustralia due to the s a m e i n j u r y .

There is a recall for fellow fast-bowlerChrisJordan,who last played for England against New Zealand in September 2023, at the expense of Chris Woakes.

Veteran players Chris Barnwell and Shemroy Barrington had respective match-winning games for their franchises when action in the GCB T10 Blast continued MondayatEnmore.

EssequiboJaguarsbeatBerbicePiranhasby1run

The Jags posted 89-6 from 10 after veteran batsman and match MVP Barrington, led with 47 not out off 29 balls (3x4 3x6) and opener Chandrapaul Hemraj (18).Piranhas Captain Veerasammy Permaul, finished with2-18findinghelpfromall-roundersRajivIvan(1-17) andHarpyEaglesplayerQuentinSampson(1-12).

Inreply,Berbicemissedthetrainhomebyasinglerun, ending on 88-8. Ivan pummeled 36 off 19 while Sagar Hetheramani(20)and12apiecefromSurheshDhanaiand Permaulfailedtogettheirteamovertheline.

First division pacer Carlos Larose (2-16) and national spinner Ashmead Nedd (2-16) were the heroes in a tense finishforEssequibo.

Demerara Pitbulls defeat Berbice Caimans by 45runs

Pitbullsnotchedup131-5afterabrilliantinningsfrom in-form all-rounder Barnwell, who guided his team to victory

The ex-West Indies T20 player blasted a 31-ball 72 with 7 sixes and 4 fours, while Damian Vantull (28) and SachinSingh(16)battedwellenough.

Spinner Devon Lord stunned the Pitbulls with mindboggling figures of 4-6. In response, the Caimans could only muster 86-5 with efforts from Alex Algoo (30), KevlonAnderson(14)andStevenSankar(19).

Barnwell along with the Sinclair's and company were goodwiththeballgrabbingawicketeachtosecureawin.

Chris Barnwell's all-round form continued as he copped another MVP award.

Iga Swiatek will now face 11th seed

UncappedLancashireleftarm spinner, Tom Hartley, is alsonamedinJosButtler's15man squad, which includes nine players from the 2022 W o r l d C u p England will play a fourmatch T20 series against Pakistan at Headingley in May before they begin their T20 World Cup title defence against Scotland in Barbados o n 4 J u n e Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, To Hartley, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan,LiamLivingston,Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, Mark Wood

England's provisional squad:

Swiatek cruises into Madrid Open quarter-finals

BBC Sport -Top seed Iga Swiatek is through to the quarter-finals of the Madrid Open thanks to a dominant straight-set victory against Spain's SaraSorribesTormo.

The world number one was broken in the first game of the match but then won the next 12 in a row for a 6-1 6-0 triumph.

Swiatek, 22, needed just 68 minutes to seal the win and will now play 11th seed Biatriz Haddad Maia of Brazilinthelasteight.

Haddad Maia beat fifth seed Maria SakkariofGreece6-46-4.

Tunisia's Ons Jabeur also progressed as she defeated ninth seed Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia in straight sets.

Jabeur, who is seeded eighth in Madrid, made the perfect start as she broke in the first game on the way to a 6-06-4win.

The 2023 Wimbledon finalist will play American Madison Keys in the last eight after she beat world number three Coco Gauff in three fiercely contestedsets.

Keys, the 18th seed, was 5-2 down inthefirstsetbutbroketwicetoforcea

tie-break,whichshetook7-4. US Open champion Gauff fought back to win the second set but Keys came through in the decider to win 7-6 (7-4) 4-6 6-4 in two hours and 31 minutes.

Russian 17-year-old Mirra Andreevaisalsothroughaftera7-6(72) 6-4 win over 12th seed Jasmine PaoliniofItaly Andreeva could play second seed Aryna Sabalenka in the last eight. The Belarusian faces 13th seed Danielle Collins of the United States in the last 16onMondayevening.

Jofra

Biatriz Haddad Maia. [Getty Images]

West Indies trump Pakistan in thrilling final-over finish to take unassailable 3-0 lead

SportsMax - A stunning death-overs implosion from Pakistan amidst more allround heroics from Hayley MatthewshelpedWestIndies take an unassailable 3-0 series lead over Pakistan in theT20I series at the Karachi NationalStadiumyesterday

Another commanding half-centuryfromMatthews68 off 49 balls - guided West Indies to the series' highest total of 132 - but Pakistan were cruising at 115 for 2, spearheaded by Sidra Ameen's 63 off 58, needing 18offthelast23balls.

Matthews then took two wickets in as many deliveries to kickstart a stunning collapse and Pakistan lost six wickets for 10 runs in 20 deliveries The hosts fell apart spectacularly, with West Indies sneaking home bytworuns.

Pakistan won the toss and put West Indies in to bat.

Fatima Sana struck early to remove Rashada Williams, but the hosts ran into the familiar brilliance of Matthews and couldn't find a way to stem the dazzling stroke making that followed.

The best they could do was work around her, and although taking wickets was aproblem,Pakistan'ssuccess i nkeeping one end relati vely quiet ensured

West Indies did not get up to the 150 mark, something Matthews said the side had beenaimingfor

Once Tuba Hassan managed the wicket of Matthews in the 16th over, thehostswrestedmomentum back. Shemaine Campbelle edgedoneoffNidaDartothe keeper in the following over, and Pakistan ground the visitors down. The last six

Junior Badminton team claims 8 medals in Easter tourney in Suriname

overs saw just 30 runs scored on a wicket that looked good enough to offer more, and at the halfway mark, Pakistan hadthemomentum.

They rode on that momentum in the second innings with a blistering opening partnership dominated by Ameen. Five boundaries in the first four overs, all struck by Ameen, saw Pakistan gallop to 39, instantly reducing the target to below a run a ball. West Indies found ways to stop the bleeding, but Pakistan never really fell behind the asking rate, ensuring they had wicketsinhandandnevergot boggeddownfortoolong.

Apair of tight overs from Afy Fletcher saw Ayesha Zafar hole out trying to go over long-on, but Ameen once more eased the pressure

Hayley Matthews led from the front to help West Indies take an unassailable 3-0 series lead over Pakistan in the T20I series.

with a big 13th over, taking 11offitandbringingupa42ball half-century Pakistan appeared to have timed their push perfectly when Ameen and Dar targeted Karishma th Ramharack's 16 over, plundering 13 and bringing the equation down to 20 needed in four remaining overs,witheightwicketsstill inhand.

But having not won a game all series and fallen short by narrow margins a couple of times, the psychological scarring was palpable, and it made its presence felt in a frenzied final half hour Aaliyah Alleyne cleaned up Nida Dar in the 17th over to keep West Indies alive, but Pakistani panic properly set in when Ameen missed an expansive inside out drive and

Matthews knocked back the top of off. The next ball saw Fatima Sana spoon one to short cover-point, and two more wickets fell in the following over, including a needlessrunoutthatrevealed the nerves that had clouded thehosts'thoughts.

Thethreeoversbeforethe final one saw just eight runs scored, meaning another 12 were required in the final one. The hosts never looked like getting there, and by the timethefinalballwashelped away for a boundary, the game, and the series, was alreadybeyondPakistan.

Scores: West Indies women 132 for 5 (Matthews 68, Campbelle 31, Sana 222) beat Pakistan women 130 for 8 (Ameen 63, Fletcher 2-20, Matthews 222) by two runs.

Jockey Appadu promised and delivered at Jumbo Jet Race of champions

Guyana's leading jockey for the year 2024, Ronaldo Appadu, displayed bravery as he promisedanddeliveredwitharemarkablewinon Sunday last at the Jumbo Jet Race of champions horserace meet.Appadu piloted Stolen Money to aheistatRisingSunTurfClub,wherehestunned Guyana's horse of the year Spankurst.The young jock was brimming with confidence before the race.

“Iamcomingwithbloodinmyeyes,”Appadu said before the feature event at Rising Sun. With only three starters in the feature race, Spankurst was the overwhelming favorite, while John Bull waseagerforagoodouting.Theunderdoghorse, Stolen Money was now being conditioned by the veteran Fazal Habibulla, and the owner, Dennis DeroopwasoverthemoonafterSunday'svictory Since at Port Mourant, I had to beat Spankhurst. I came here today, and the field was thin, and I know I had to position myself. Going upthethreefurlong,Jockey(Kiran)Razackcame

on me, but I ran on the outside and Stolen Money delivered. Look out for Stolen Money at Guyana Cup, and I am taking the champion jockey for 2024,”Appadusaid.

Meanwhile, Deroop said his horse, Stolen Money, has shown improvement race after race and a big win was promised here. “This win was dedicatedforthefansofStolenMoney,whichisa verylovedhorse.WewilltakeStolenMoneyona breakandpreparefortheGuyanaCup(onAugust 11),”Deroopdisclosed.

Onnormaloccasions,Spankhurstwillusually be the horse that goes to front, but John Bull had anearlystart,whileStolenMoneycloselytrailed, but made the killer blow on the homestretch. “I told the jockey once he is five lengths behind, he will win. When he was going on the backstretch, he was full of running, and I thought he had them,”Deroopsaid.

The next race day is set for Port MourantTurf ClubatatentativedateofMay26.

Jockey Ronaldo Appadu recorded three wins on Sunday last, including a victory in the feature event.

Clive Lloyd and Minister

ICC T20 Box Office declared open in Guyana

AheadoftheupcomingICCMen's T20 World Cup, Guyana officially commissioned their Box Office yesterday, as preparations continue ahead of the spectacle. Yesterday's virtual meeting featured ICC head of P u

Communications Damon Leon, Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle and Andrew Tyndall Director of Events MinistryofCultureYouthandSports.

The team spoke on the logistics of the tournament and its upcoming activities in Guyana such as the unveilingofthetrophy,meetandgreet with officials among other tributaries oftheWorldCup.

Director of Sports Ninvalle said that preparations are coming along well especially at the respective venues, most notably the Guyana National Stadium, to which he lauded

the team for ensuring the Stadium remains in peak shape ahead of the WorldCup.

He said the practice venues like GCC,DCC,Everesttonameafeware also in premier shape ahead of the event. Ninvalle further added that the pitches are up to standards and playable, confirming that the venues will be handed over today with all infrastructuralaspectsinplace.

Sir

of Sports Charles Ramson Jr during yesterday's visit to the Guyana National Stadium.

GFF Regional Associations’ League kicks off in Essequibo

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Regional Associations' Senior Men's League is back.Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon Football Association (ECPFA) on Saturday officially kicked off the regional competition withclubsRichmondUnited FC and Queenstown FC battling to a hard-fought 0-0 draw Fans on April 27 witnessed the clash at Cottonfield Sports Ground in Essequibo. Both teams battled fiercely to seize their chances at scoring goals but ultimately fell short as the finalwhistleblew

ThisistheECPFA'sthird consecutive year organising their league with funding support from the GFF's

M e m b e r s F i n a n c i a l Assistance Programme (MFAP).

ECPFA's six clubs, including Charity Extreme FC, Dartmouth Dominators, Richmond United, Mainstay Gold Stars, Tapakuma United and Good Hope AllStars, are vying to secure the top spot at the conclusion of the league GFF President Wayne Forde congratulated ECPFA President Marvin Pearson and his executive team for successfully

organising the third consecutive season of the l e a g u e " I c o m m e n d President Pearson and his team for their focus over the past few months to ensure the ECPFA successfully launched its senior men's league for the third consecutive year with the assistance of the M-FAP

This is a milestone for ECPFA.”He added that the GFF “remains committed to supporting our Regional Associations (RAs) through financial backing and technical assistance, fosteringequalopportunities forfootballersintheregion."

The GFF will invest in excess of 15 million dollars in funding and material supportforthe9 Regional Association Senior Men Leagues during

the2024season.

Keen competition was the order of the day as play in the GFF Regional Associations' Senior Men's League opened in Essequibo.

Richmond United FC and Queenstown

FC play out hard-fought draw

In the coming weeks, the GFF's remaining eight Regional AssociationsBarticaFootball Association (BFA), B e r b i c e F o o t b a l l Association (BFA), East Coast Demerara Football Association (ECDFA), East Bank Demerara Football

Association (EBFA) Georgetown Football Association (GFA), Rupununi Football Association (RFA), Upper

D e m e r a r a F o o t b a l l Association (UDFA), West

D e m e r a r a F o o t b a l l Association (WDFA) - will commence their senior men's leagues, having workedcloselywiththeGFF toensurereadiness.

They were required to submit key documentation, including clubs and players' listings,leaguefixturesanda budgetfortheseason.

Some 104 football clubs affiliated with the Regional Associations will reap the rewards of the M-FAP investment Launched in 2020 with the complete approval of the GFF Congress, M-FAP extends support to GFF members across four key pillars:

A d m i n i s t r a t i o n & Operations, Equipment & Material, Competition & TechnicalDevelopment,and I n f r a s t r u c t u r e Development.The winner of the regional leagues will earn the opportunity to compete in the GFF Elite LeaguePromotionPlayoff. Their ultimate aim?

Securing a spot in the prestigious KFC Elite LeagueSeasonSeven.

Monedderlust FC reclaimed their spot in the current Elite League Season Sixafterdefeating Slingerz FC from the West Demerara Football Association in the GFF Elite LeaguePromotionPlayoff.

GFF President Forde noted that "fans can expect a thrilling season across the RegionalAssociations".

Round 2 - Women's League Division One

Fruta Conquerors and Potaro Strikers battle to a 1-1 draw in intense clash

Fruta Conquerors FC and Potaro Strikers FC played out a 1-1 draw after a fiercely contested showdown at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National TrainingCentreinProvidence,East BankDemerara.

The April 27 Round Two Women's League Division One match kicked off with an impressive goal from Fiona Gibbs of Fruta Conquerors FC in the 6th minute.

Despite relentless efforts from

the visiting team to level the score inthefirsthalf,theyfellshort.

However, halftime witnessed a rejuvenated Potaro Strikers FC, a team with a more assertive presenceonthefield.

Their persistence paid off when Anis Livan netted an exhilarating goalinthe87thminute, equalisingthescoreline.

Fruta Conquerors FC fought hard to mount a comeback, but as thefinalwhistleechoed,theyhadto

settle for a draw, each team earning avaluablepoint.

At the top of the table sits Guyana Defence Force FC, boasting an impressive twenty-one points from a flawless streak of seven consecutive victories. In secondplaceisGuyanaPolice Force FC, also on twenty-one points, achieved through seven winsandasingledefeat.

Maintaining their grip on third place is Fruta Conquerors FC,

amassing thirteen points from four wins, one draw, and four losses, while Potaro Strikers FC holds steady in fourth position with five points, garnered from one win, two draws,andfourdefeats.

Parkuri Jaguars FC remains rooted in fifth place, with one win, one draw, and six losses to their name.

Upcoming Fixture is set for May 7 with GDF FC taking on PoliceFCat9:00p.m.atNTC.

Part of the intense action between Fruta and Potaro Strikers FC at the NTC.

Archery Guyana's Continental Judge Nicholas Hing deems 2024 Pan American Archery Championships a success

Archery Guyana's Continental Judge, Mr Nicholas Hing, has reported that the 2024 Pan American Archery Championships in Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, heldfromApril9to14,2024,wasa totalsuccess.

“The World Archery Americas team of 16 judges from across the region, conducted the competition with extreme professionalism under the leadership of WAA Secretary General, International Judge and Technical Delegate Sergio Font, International Judges Lais Nunez (Bra), Guille Pistache (Mex) andAna Luiza De Mesquita (Bra), along with the many others, including retired International

Judge and Continental Judge Bob Pian(USA).

“I was immediately accepted and shown friendship and support byeveryoneinthisdiversegroupof judgesfromdifferentregionsofthe Americas. I have learned so much from each of them and from the experience, since this was my very first International event as a ContinentalJudge,”Hingstated.

“The experience was an unforgettable one, as the Pan American Championships attracts the biggest names in archery, many ofthemOlympians,andmanymore prospectiveOlympians.

As judges, we always have to make sure we are aware and

updatedonanyandallrulechanges so as to carry out our duties effectivelyandefficiently

Judges meetings were held every morning before the start of the day's matches to delegate each judge's responsibility and we were divided into teams for: equipment

checks, line judges, target judges andscorers,”healsosaid.

The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana again extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr Hing on his selection to have represented Guyana on the internationalstage.

Guyana's Nicholas Hing signals a ruling during the Archery Judges programme. (World Archery)

The Judges confer on an issue. (World Archery)

Sports West Indies trump Pakistan in thrilling final-over finish to take unassailable 3-0 lead

Junior Badminton team

The young Guyanese team and coaches take time out for a photo.

Hayley Matthews' 68 off 49 set the platform for a strong finish. (PCB)