Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 05-04-2023

— Local Content Summit sparks discussion on anticipated review of Local Content Legislation

— VP Jagdeo maintains that a balance will be pursued to ensure that no stakeholder is discouraged

President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday administered the Oath of Office, and issued instruments of appointment to former Chief Labour Officer Mr. Charles Ogle, and Reverend Rodwell Porter, the two remaining members of the Ethnic Relations Commission.

Recently, Pandit Krishna Deo Sharma, Sheik Moeen Ul Hack, Norris Witter, Dwayne Adams, Chandrowtie Sarran, Ashton Simon, Deon Dick, and Neaz Subhan took the oath before the President. The ERC is chaired by Shiek Ul Hack. (Office of the President photo)

1,500 house lots issued in Good Hope, Lusignan Schemes —

at first ‘Dream Realised’ 2023 housing drive

ONE thousand five hundred low, moderate, middle, and high-income persons received houselots at Good Hope Scheme and Lusignan Scheme, East Coast Demerara, as the Housing Ministry kicked off its aggressive ‘Dream Realised’ Housing Drive for 2023.

On Tuesday, the housing drive was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) under the Ministry of Housing and Water-Central Housing and Planning Authority.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, congratulated the allottees by saying that “owning your own home… is a personal achievement that all of us strive for.”

According to the Minister, the initiative will help the ministry reach its goal of allocating 10,000 housing lots by 2023.

He also highlighted the activity as another illustration of how the current administration was keeping its promise to offer affordable housing options.

Additionally, he stated that the government was making significant investments in infrastructure for the Ministry to accelerate home ownership.

A further point made by Minister Croal was that the government was making great efforts to extend the success of the East Bank of Demerara to the East Coast of Demerara.

According to the Min-

ister, “We have right now $11.6 billion being spent for development works in Golden Grove, Block 13, Block 2, Block 7, [and] Block 3”.

He continued: “So in terms of progress, it is important to note that 100 per cent of the contracts for infrastructure development on the East Coast and East Bank have been signed. We have mobilised, and land clearance and preparation have already started.”

Meanwhile, the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, noted that home ownership was one of the most significant and important investments most individuals will make.

“I want to urge you to look at the development that took place on the East Bank of Demerara, and you will understand what is about to take place on the East Coast of Demerara” stated Minister Rodrigues.

She emphasised further that the East Bank

of Demerara has evolved due to the President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s critical choices while serving as Minister of Housing and Water.

Minister Rodrigues added that the ministry is currently working to develop some 3,000 house lots on the East Coast of Demerara, noting that the area was in the early stages of transformation.

She also disclosed that the Ministry could allot 5,900 house sites on Demerara’s East Coast between 2020 and 2023.

Additionally, Chief Executive Officer of CH&PA, Sherwyn Greaves, stated that the lands allocated were not only being sold way below market value but also have the great potential of increasing in value.

The areas allocated at the housing drive will include amenities such as playgrounds, religious institutions, schools, and police stations, to name a few.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, facilitates the drawing of a houselot by one of many applicants (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

More in store for Guyanese

By Tamica Garnett

CONVERSATIONS on local content success stories by local businesses, and how local content has managed to foster economic growth during the inaugural Local Content Summit at the Pegasus Suites on Tuesday made for a vibrant start to discussions on the reform of Guyana’s Local Content Legislation.

Held under the theme, “Sustaining Supplier Development through Local Content Partnership”, the summit was designed to facilitate knowledge exchange for Guyanese small enterprises interested in working in the energy sector.

The summit was hosted by MBW Energy Support Services Inc., headed by Chief Executive Officer Abbigale Loncke-Watson.

Delivering the keynote address at the event, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said the occasion was a springboard for discussions on policies and certification, and to review the impact of the legislation.

“We decided to work with Abigail, not just owing to the fact that she exudes a whole lot of energy focus… The summit is sufficiently narrowly focused that it could allow us to bring greater value into the discussions to people of this country. It could also kick-start the review that we in government plan to amend the Local Content Legislation, as promised in the past,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

He added: “Today, we are here to clarify from government’s perspective, and to listen, since this is the first of a series of meetings that we will be

having over the next several months to review the Local Content Act. Since the passage of the legislation in 2021, how we have fared as a country?”

Guyana passed its first local-content legislation, the Local Content Act, in December 2021. The government had embarked on a thorough consultation process in crafting the Act.

“It was a careful balancing act,” the Vice-President said, adding: “The Local Content Act was not an Act that you could just take practices from elsewhere and transpose them in a major way into the local legislation. We had to go through an iterative process to craft a piece of legislation that is appropriate to Guyana, the stage of development of goods and services and capacity here, without harming the interest of the companies operating here.”

Currently, Guyana’s Local Content Act outlines 40 sub-sectors that would legally require oil companies to procure goods and services, as well as employ specific percentages of Guyanese in their day-to-day operations. It also sets out what defines a local company,

which is a business that must be at least 51 per cent owned by a Guyanese.

However, ever since its passage, the government has maintained that the Act would not be set in stone, as amendments could be made to guarantee increased employment and business opportunities for the people of Guyana, as citizens train more, and provide more services to the oil-and-gas sector.

Conversations about revamping the Act gained momentum over the past few months following public revelations of how foreign companies have been finding ways and means of circumventing the objective of the legislation.

Acknowledging that there are loopholes in the legislation, Dr. Jagdeo agreed that the time is now ripe to return to the review of the Act, and that as such, widespread stakeholder consultations will be needed.

“We will once again have to pursue the same balancing, as we move to reform; update the current legislation. So today, we are not going to be giving a definitive position. We are here to listen; dis -

— Local Content Summit sparks discussion on anticipated review of Local Content Legislation

— VP Jagdeo maintains that a balance will be pursued to ensure that no stakeholder is discouraged

cuss with private sector, labour movement, Guyanese businesses, first tier contractors, and the oil companies as we move forward,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

He added: “The debates have been robust. If we want local content and the building of a Guyanese capacity to mean something and grow, it is important that we keep

the industry dynamic and vibrant very long into the future, so that the local industry can develop capacity and scale in a sustained manner.”

In support of this, the government has taken a very structured, strategic approach to developing policies and programmes, he said.

“It mandates the

government to act in a certain manner. We don’t want international investors to have investment stranded; we don’t want the Guyanese investors to have their investment stranded. So it mandates a certain posture on the government’s part,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

MBW Energy Support Services Incorporated’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Abbigale Loncke-Watson

Pakistan court orders provincial votes in win for ex-PM Khan

(Reuters) - Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered, on Tuesday, that elections in two provinces should go ahead by May 15, despite government reluctance to hold the votes now, as it struggles with an economic crisis and a political challenge

from the opposition.

Ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan has been pushing for assembly elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, as part of a campaign to force an early general election that he has waged since being

forced from office a year ago after losing a vote of confidence.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has rejected Khan’s call for an early general election and his government had backed an election commission delay in the votes in the two provinces to October 8.

The commission cited a lack of resources and the government agreed saying it was not possible to organise the provincial elections while the country was struggling with an economic crisis and with a general election due around early October anyway.

But the Supreme Court ruled that the delay was illegal and voting in the two provinces should be held between April 30 and May 15.

Khan’s party hailed the ruling but the government said it spelt trouble.

“It will deepen the country’s crisis,” Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar told a news conference.

Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party and its allies had governed in both of the provinces and had dissolved their assemblies early hoping to force

Sharif’s government to agree to their demand for the early general election.

The court, according to a copy of its ruling seen by Reuters, said the delay was unconstitutional and unlawful.

It said the provincial assembly election in Punjab, Pakistan’s most prosperous and politically important province should be on May 14.

The date of the vote in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would be decided later, pending technical issues, the court said.

The court also ordered the government to release 21 billion rupees ($73.17 million) to the election commission to organise the two provincial elections.

The Supreme Court’s ruling also highlights the latest bout of tension between the top court and a government in a country with a long tradition of a politically active judiciary.

Parliament last week introduced a draft law to clip the powers of the Supreme Court.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan gestures as he speaks with Reuters during an interview in Lahore, Pakistan March 17, 2023 (REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro)

VP Jagdeo: Unjustified cost-oil expenditure will not be allowed

— Vice-President Jagdeo affirms

VICE-PRESIDENT Dr.

Bharrat Jagdeo has reaffirmed the government’s commitment that any cost-oil expenditure deemed unjustified will be disallowed, in accordance with the procedure that has to be followed.

In an invited comment to the media on the sidelines of an event at the Pegasus Suites on Tuesday, the Vice-President responded to reports that hundreds of millions of dollars in cost-oil expenses were deemed questionable in an audit report by IHS Markit, which evaluated operational expenses claimed by ExxonMobil and its partners for 1999 to 2017.

Jagdeo related that given the technical nature of the audit report and its

findings, the document is currently being handled by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and other technical officials at the Ministry of Natural Resources. However, he maintained that unjustified costs will be stricken from the expenditure books.

“If they come up with these cost are not justified, then the company has to submit justification. And if they cannot, then there has to be an adjustment,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

He added: “It has to go through a process. In the audit, in the preliminary findings, you have contested costs; you have to get the company to respond. You have to send it over to the company to respond; they are then re-

quired to submit additional documentation. If they can’t submit additional documentation, then the cost is disallowed. So it comes out the cost bank, and goes towards profit oil; so, a greater share of the adjustment has to be made to profit oil.”

According to the current Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that Guyana has with oil-andgas operator ExxonMobil, the company can recoup up to 75 per cent of the revenue as cost oil, which is incurred production costs.

The remaining revenue is split 50/50 between the government and the contractor. Hence, the amount of revenue that goes to cost oil affects the amount of money that the country is able to gain from its

Baby’s death: Ogle daycare owner to face manslaughter charge

THE Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, has recommended that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) charge the owner of Little Learners Day Care over the death of seven-month-old baby Oriyah Gravesande.

patrimony.

As such, the expenses listed by the company is audited by the government to ensure all expenses are allowable, and are at fair market rates. If an expense is raised as questionable in the audit and the company cannot defend it, then it is removed from cost oil, and Guyana’s profit is increased.

For the period 1999 to 2017, Exxon has claimed US$1.67 billion in expenses.

Even as the first audit report is being deliberated upon by the relevant authorities, the cost-recovery audit of the 2018 to 2020 expenses has been submitted, and was earlier last month sent to ExxonMobil for its response on the findings.

Convicted child rapist appeals life sentences

SHELDON Lynch, who is currently serving three life sentences for the rape of two underage girls, has moved to the Appeal Court to have the convictions and sentences overturned.

In 2018, Lynch, 51, was sentenced to two life sentences by High Court Judge Simone Morris-Ramlall for the rape of an underage girl on two occasions. The girl was 10 years old at the time.

The judge ordered that the two sentences run concurrently, and Lynch only be eligible for parole after serving 35

years for two counts.

Later that year, he was handed another life sentence, this time without parole, by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry for the 2015 rape of a child under the age of 16.

According to the State, on August 22, 2015, Lynch, of Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, engaged in sexual

penetration with an 11-yearold girl child.

In his appeal documents, the convict claimed that the trial judge had erred in law. He is contending that the sentences were excessive and too severe. As such, he is asking the court to reserve and/ or set aside his conviction and sentence in both cases.

On March 21, the infant died after her mother, Shavannie Gravesande, dropped her off at the daycare facility in Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

The GPF had submitted its file containing all evidence and statements to the DPP for legal advice.

On Tuesday, the DPP returned the file with a recommendation that the daycare owner be charged with manslaughter. She is expected to be arraigned at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court before the end of this week.

A post-mortem conducted by government pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh confirmed that the infant died from haemor-

rhaging and compression to the neck.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the facility has been in operation for over two decades without proper documentation. Following the infant’s death, the daycare was closed down. It was reported that the baby died after falling from a bed and becoming tangled between the sheets.

Sheldon Lynch

Little Oriyah Gravesande

The Greener Grass Syndrome

ACCORDING to Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, an additional 3,000 nurses will be trained within the next three years to meet the increasing demand for nurses in Guyana.

This is all the more necessary in light of the construction of seven new hospitals and a Maternal and Paediatric Hospital that is under construction at Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

Nurses are in demand throughout the world and the PPP/C administration must be commended for putting in place the necessary measures to step up nurses’ training to meet

this growing demand.

It is no secret that nurses from the developing world are being lured to offer their services to the richer nations which can afford to pay much higher salaries and other forms of emoluments.

Guyana is no exception to this human resource deficit. A significant number of our nurses are leaving for supposedly ‘greener pastures’ mainly in the United States and the United Kingdom. Many recruiting agencies operate in the open, with the full knowledge, if not blessings, of the ‘host’ countries.

This is at best unfortunate. It is a clear case of the “brain drain” which is not only a loss of valuable human resources, but also a significant economic loss since these nurses are trained at taxpayers’ expense and are expected to offer their services to their country.

And while it is true that the vast majority have completed their contractual obligations, their departure comes at a time when they would have acquired lots of experience and technical competencies which are difficult to replace. It is a case of poorer countries subsidizing the cost of nurses training

by the wealthier countries. This is as true of nurses as it is for other skilled categories such as doctors and engineers.

The PPP/C administration is cognisant of this reality. And while there is now a fair degree of free travel and movement of skills both within the CARICOM region and beyond, all efforts must be made to minimise the loss of skills to foreign shores.

The Guyana Government has been tackling this issue in a two-fold manner. Firstly, by significantly increasing the number of trained nurses by way of a “critical

mass” approach and secondly, by offering enhanced salaries and other incentives such as access to housing.

President Ali, only recently, announced a menu of measures to raise the level of remuneration for a wide range of professions in the health sector. This is indeed a forward-looking step which hopefully would help to put a brake on the attrition rate of nurses and other health professionals.

Under the previous APNU+AFC administration, nurses’ training was never given the required attention resulting in a significant deficit

of trained nurses to man the health facilities at the various levels.

Guyana, especially at this critical conjuncture in its developmental trajectory, cannot afford to lose any of its human capital so vital for accelerated development.

The country has now reached a stage where there is already a paucity of certain categories of skilled personnel. Nurses are certainly one such category and full credit must be given to the PPP/C administration for the proactive measures it is taking to address this issue.

Discerning and overcoming barriers to development

Dear Editor,

[A letter to Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond] GOOD morning minister: reading today’s Guyana Times, I want to commend you and our government’s sense of direction and programmes for development manifested in the article, “Everyone has equal opportunity to bid for contracts” - Walrond. The first step in development is to enact and enforce open, transparent systems.

A second no less essential step is to work towards similarly high levels of success of all groups so as to give substance to our aspiration of “One Guyana.”

For a society to stay together, the necessary standards should not be seen and approached as hurdles to fail and exclude many, but as standards to which many if

not all are to be trained (by various methods and paths) to attain.

I commend also reports on training to achieve required standards in smaller infrastructural works and the acceptance of the alternative concrete roads which in terms of capital needs, experience and expertise, pose lesser hurdles ( than asphaltic surfaces) to small contractors and putting persons in the street to work.

Development must get on to a path of putting our people to work in their own development, doing, working and learning the work and about working, getting better each day, and in that process developing ourselves and arriving in time at a developed state.

We could be on the road of that development. The faces in the picture of a section of the potential contractors were full of attention, and in which I thought I discerned at

the same time some anxiety about doing well and being successful. And though a small number of faces, it was a good representation of who we are, who Guyanese are, in race and gender.

Without any doubt, my sensitivity to this issue of “development” this morning has been heightened by my attendance yesterday afternoon [Monday] at the “Presentation of the World Bank’s Review for Latin America and the Caribbean” by Mr Bill Maloney, Chief Economist for the Region. It was challenging and inspiring.

On many measures as a whole we are not doing well, a projected growth rate of 1.4 per cent compared with 2.1 per cent for the whole world. Yes, there are always the variations around the average -- two brighter spots were The Dominican Republic doing especially well in diversifying their economy, and good prospects for Guyana in

developing their young, rapidly growing oil sector.

The Chief Economist posed some tantalising questions ‘on the run.’ “About 100 years ago Chile was number one in production of copper in the world, and Mexico was number one in silver - and who was number 2? -- Japan. How was it that Japan developed a diversified economy from its number two position and Chile and Mexico did not from their number one positions. I said tantalizing questions because I think he knew the answer that I would venture. A lot depends on how we see each other and if we see worth, purpose and a valued end in working for the good of each other, being comfortable to approach and discuss with each other. And so as the Chief Economist hinted, in Japan the work and income in copper and silver could in the number of ways required, be the base of and lead on

to ever-widening economic activities. Japan was already or nearly already one Japan, whilst many of our countries in the LAC are still to become One Country.

In Chavez in Venezuela, Evo Morales in Bolivia, Pedro Castillo in Peru and even Lula in Brazil, we see made evident the still to be synthesized socio-political struggle across race, class, urban/rural gaps remaining from the colonizing era set loose by Columbus.

As is evident here, often, when answers cannot be found to issues in the sector being studied, one may have to look into other sectors to discern and open any barriers. Evidently, the nature and quantity of development in our LAC Region is still largely socio-politically constrained.

For us in Guyana and still so for us of the PPP/C, Cheddi Jagan and his period of study in the USA have been

a great boon to us and our country.

The America he lived in of 1936 to 43 was still then revolutionary in a number of ways, still suspicious of Old Europe holding on to its empires, and still the place where the small men had the best chance to become big men, and the view of each other as toiling workers was still widespread.

No doubt Cheddi’s American experience inspired him and fortified him to establish UG through the taunts of Jagan’s night school. Cheddi wanted to bring an American Liberal Arts Tertiary education within the reach of every one of us in Guyana.

The Chief Economist threw some other difficult questions before us of the Caribbean. You have been working at Integration/Federation for decades now without success should you still retain

Continued on page 7

Fake news must not be allowed to prosper in Guyana [Part I]

Dear Editor,

THERE is a tendency by those who proffer “breaking news” to claim factuality. However, when factchecked, their “breaking news” is exposed as fake news; this is not uncommon internationally.

Unless fake news clothed as “breaking news” is constantly monitored, countered and exposed effectively, it can replace truth with lies and half-truths which are worse than lies.

Fake news, irrespective of its source, must not be allowed to prosper in Guyana; it must be nipped in the bud at every conceivable level and fora.

I make this observation in the light of a piece of fake news by an obscure webpage claiming that the PPP/C has “plans for a massive rigging scheme” at the forthcoming LGEs. Whatever the source, it is clearly a PNC-inspired piece of gutter propaganda which, noticeably, is worse than fake news.

It is not for me to respond on behalf of the PPP/C to the breaking fake news proffered, the party can, as it has always effectively done in the past; however, in my capacity as a commissioner at GECOM, I consider it my duty to expose the wicked and malicious claim by anyone purporting that GECOM will sit on its hands and allow anyone, especially known APNU riggers, to ride roughshod over GECOM’s election machinery as was done during March to August 2020, when the APNU+AFC attempted to violate the democratic will of the electorate.

The PNC/APNU+AFC’s track record with respect to

elections in Guyana has been rejected by the majority of the voting populace. Their record speaks for itself. But the fundamental question is: how many LGEs has the political opposition ever won in this country? In fact, indicators are that the APNU could be wiped out at the impending LGEs and future elections. So, the AFC “smelled the rat” and decided not to contest LGEs ‘23.

Moreover, it is for this reason that the APNU has made every effort at the level of GECOM to obstruct the holding of LGEs this year.

There are certain electoral realities that the political opposition, while gallivanting on social media, chose to ignore as safeguards to prevent multiple voting and any form of skulduggery come LGEs on Monday, June 12, 2023 or any future election in Guyana.

1. Identification of the Voter

Before an elector is allowed to vote, he/she will be properly identified as the person he/she claims to be. In order to facilitate this, GECOM has placed electors’ photographs alongside their names on the folio that will be at the polling stations in the possession of election officials and party agents. When an elector goes to the polling station to vote, an election official will first examine the ID card to confirm that it belongs to the elector. The election official will then compare the photograph on the ID card with the one alongside the elector’s name on the folio to confirm that he/she is the same person. Provided the official is satisfied that the elector is who he/she is claiming to be, he/ she will then be processed for

voting. On the other hand, if any discrepancy is noted, the elector will be subjected to questioning, and possibly, be arrested immediately.

2. The Use of Indelible Ink

In the voting process, electors will be required to dip the first joint of their right index fingers in the indelible ink. Before electors are allowed to vote, their fingers will be examined for traces of indelible ink. If traces of indelible ink are found on an elector’s finger, it will be treated as evidence that he/she has already voted and will not be allowed to vote again. Consequently, the elector will be subjected to questioning, and possibly, be arrested immediately.

3. Party Agents

On Election Day, there will be political party agents at the polling stations throughout the voting process to witness the physical identification of voters and the examination of their hands for traces of indelible ink. If a party agent has good reason to believe that any person is not the elector he/she claims to be, or that the person has already voted, the agent can bring this to the notice of the presiding officer. This will result in the person being questioned, and possibly, be arrested immediately if he/she is found to have already voted.

4. The Presence of Security Personnel from the Guyana Police Force Ranks from the Guyana Police Force will be present at all polling stations through-

out Election Day to assist the presiding officers in ensuring that the election process is implemented in a lawful and orderly manner. The police will be invited by the presiding officer to take firm action pertaining to the commission of any electoral offence within the boundaries of the polling station.

5. Voter Education GECOM has embarked

on an intensive and nationwide Civic and Voter Education campaign aimed at informing electors about their rights and responsibilities as voters, and to dissuade them from becoming involved in skulduggery. Emphasis will be placed on the reasons why electors should not become involved in the conduct of electoral offences, as well as the penalties associated

with such offences. GECOM will make it known clearly that the commission and its secretariat are committed to having persons promptly arrested if they are found to be engaging themselves in any electoral offence. [To be continued]

Yours respectfully, Clement J Rohee

the idea (if not rethink it fundamentally). And referring to migration and subsequent remittances, he questioned one Ambassador- “Imagine you were a young person thinking you could make a name in Nuclear Engineering, would you not move to North America.” ?

Our Economic development, requires our socio-political development to become One Guyana , One

Guyanese People against the background in which Cheddi found sustenanceOne World, One Human Race in all our diversities of physiological appearances, languages, religions, cultures, histories.

Yours respectfully,

Samuel Hinds

Former Prime Minister Former President Ambassador

to the USA

President Ali’s outreach energised Region Three – R3PSI Head

THE impact of President Irfaan Ali’s recent two-day outreach in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) has left hundreds of residents with a smile on their faces after the swift response to having their concerns heard and remedied at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

This is according to the Head of Region Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), Halim Khan, who noted that the Office of the President-Direct outreach had solved tremendous issues and problems, and several follow-up activities will now be carried out in communities all across the region.

“Almost 3,000 people had their issues resolved, and

efforts were made to address many more. In one case, a century-long case involving a land situation at Leonora Pasture was remedied within 24 hours of being raised, plus several persons received titles to the land they are occupying,” Khan highlighted.

Further, Khan said almost 2,000 additional cases were still being resolved, with referrals to other agencies

point individuals in the right direction to either resolve their issues or put measures in place to solve them in the shortest possible time.

Khan noted that President Ali was also pleased with the attendance of the business community at the event, as there was an eagerness to capitalise on the economic boom in the region.

tremendously.

and follow-up contacts being made.

He explained that the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) implemented an electronic system that recorded all of the issues being raised, the resolutions, and other data in real-time monitoring.

Additionally, the R3PSI Head explained that each person that visited the outreach was given a number electronically. At the same time, the president and his team could

Although many proposals were put forward for small manufacturing facilities, aquaculture, hydroponics, large-scale agriculture, apartments, real estate, hotels, and supermarkets, Khan said many ideas were forwarded to the relevant authorities and Go-Invest.

Further, he explained that matters involving the immigration authorities, the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the General Register Office (GRO), the Local Government Ministry, the GOAL scholarship programme, the Education Ministry and the Ministry of Health all benefitted residents

“A Housing Ministry team also assisted persons with queries on existing applications, the processing of new applications, squatting and regularisation issues, titles and transport, applications for the steel and cement housing subsidy, and all other housing and infrastructure related matters, and a Guyana Water Incorporated team also [gave] support and guidance,” Khan added.

The outreach, which is one in a series that will be done in each of the administrative regions, was crafted as a means for the government to get on the ground to get a firsthand understanding of the challenges facing residents in various communities and to listen to complaints in order to craft informed policies and programmes, and find timely solutions. This is the second Office of the President-Direct outreach aimed at bringing Government services to communities outside of Georgetown.

Electronic-ID system will not replace GECOM-issued ID

VICE-PRESIDENT, Bharrat Jagdeo, has said that the electronic identification cards that are expected to be acquired will be separate from the identification cards that are issued by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

He made those remarks during a recent press conference, during which he said that the cards that employ biometrics for security will need separate legislation to govern their use.

Jagdeo related that the government recently signed a contract to procure those ID cards with full biometrics that would allow the government to develop a full range of functions and to deliver better e-governance services.

The Vice-President said that the e-cards will be separate from GECOM’s ID cards and will not take over the functions of the Com -

mission.

“These ID cards will be separate from the ID cards that GECOM issues; we didn’t want to collapse this into one ID card, [because the] next thing you hear [will be], ‘Oh PPP wants to take over GECOM functions,’” Jagdeo said.

Vice-President went to note that the requisite legislative framework is currently being crafted for the use of the E-ID.

In early March, a US$35 million contract was signed between a

Germany-based company, Veridos, and the Government of Guyana to produce a single electronic identification card for all government and business transactions.

The implementation of this single E-ID will allow for the issuance of work permits and resident identification through a more coordinated approach that will see holders of the registration numbers using that single identification for all transactions.

R3PSInc Head, Halim Khan

Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Guyana is leading in call for cleaner, better world

GUYANA is one of the first among many nations to endorse the demand for a cleaner and better world, as expressed in its sustainable development initiatives in global management, forest management, and biodiversity.

An established Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) in 2009 focused on how to make transformational investments towards a low-carbon economy.

Currently, Guyana is leading the way in this endeavour and other nations are now developing their own sustainable development plans.

In the recently approved revised and expanded LCDS 2030, the strategy outlines four primary areas of focus: (1) create new incentives for a low-carbon economy, (ii) invest in clean energy and stimulate low-carbon growth,

(iii) protect against climate change and biodiversity loss, and (iv) align with global climate and biodiversity goals.

While the first three points served as the LCDS 2009’s guiding principles, the fourth is a recent addition that will assure Guyana’s continued adaptability to changing environmental problems, goals, and business environments.

How will the development of the oil and gas sector in Guyana be guided by the LCDS 2030?

After the LCDS of 2009 went into effect, a lot changed, but the most notable was the oil and gas find made in offshore Guyana. With this, the nation has a plan to strategically manage its oil and gas income.

First and foremost, the money made from this sector will be invested in social and economic projects that will raise the stan -

dard of living in the nation, particularly in healthcare and education. Secondly, it intends to diversify the economy and build up other industries to help Guyana achieve its development objectives, such as building the nation’s infrastructure.

Further, all oil and gas profits shall be managed in compliance with national legislation. The nation has matched its framework with the global objective of decarbonization as it prepares to become a significant player in the oil and gas industry on the international stage. For starters, it will retain, in a predominant

way, the country’s position as a net carbon sink, with Guyana’s 18 million hectares of forests sequestering close to 154 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalents annually, offsetting in a significant way emissions

from industry.

Additionally, it supports the worldwide push for a low-carbon transition and the Net Zero goal by 2050. To achieve this goal, Guyana’s LCDS outlines the country’s position in advocating for reducing fossil fuel subsidies and global carbon pricing.

Guyana’s LCDS 2030 outlines a clear plan to protect the environment and advance low-carbon development while utilising the country’s natural resources. These are foundational pieces in its development

agenda that support sustainability and improve the livelihoods of all its people.

Furthermore, it creates many opportunities for low-carbon development initiatives by the private sector. Guyana has a wide range of investment opportunities with years of experience in many traditional sectors of the economy and growing opportunities in new sectors.

(This is part of a weekly series on LCDS.) The author can be contacted at cparkinson0206@gmail. com.

No shortage of feedbacks during consultations on draft PSA

THE government received immense feedback from the public during the consultation period for the new draft Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), which outlines the fiscal and other terms of all future agreements with contractors in the oil-and-gas sector.

Released early last month, the new PSA underwent a 14-day consultation period, during which time persons sent feedback on the drafts to the Minister of

Natural Resources.

In an invited comment on the sidelines of an event at the Pegasus Suites on Tuesday, Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo said that the government saw robust feedback on the document.

“We’ve had quite a few comments from a large number of people,” Mr. Jagdeo said.

Although noting that the government will not be extending the consultation period, the Vice-President said that the government

is, nonetheless, amenable to assessing any late submissions that comes in.

“If somebody sends in a comment as we’re finalizing, and it makes sense, we’re not going to ignore it,” the Vice-President said.

With discussions on a new PSA having been circulating for some years now, the Vice-President noted that the two-week consultation period was more than sufficient.

“This matter has been in the public domain for the last five years; people

are saying that two weeks are not enough, when they knew we were going to put out a draft PSA. It’s a fiveyear issue; five years we’ve had a debate on what needs to be adjusted. I think it’s just another one of those things that people call for more time; that they really don’t want to put in the technical effort and work,” Mr. Jagdeo said.

The new PSA has been imminent for some years now, given the widespread criticism of the 2016 PSA that was orchestrated by the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition when it was in government.

Based on the draft PSA, Guyana would receive better terms, and more benefits when compared to the contentious 2016 PSA; these include an increased royalty rate from two per cent to 10 per cent, corporate tax of 10 per cent; and a cap on cost oil of 65 per cent.

The agreement also includes better provisions for

the signing bonus, relinquishment terms, activities related to the abandonment of the block, and an increase in the training fee.

The new PSA will be used by the government in signing on to contractors who are awarded blocks in Guyana’s ongoing auction. Guyana is currently auctioning off three deep-water and 11 shallow-water blocks.

There is a separate agreement for the deep-water and shallow-water areas. The model petroleum agreements will be followed by an overhaul of the 1986 Petroleum Act and Regulations.

Guyana is among 65 countries that launched auctions of oil blocks, and as such the government has worked along with international consultant, IHS Markit Consulting, to offer the best terms that will see the country remaining competitive while also getting a fair deal.

Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo

GECOM Chair casts decisive vote to appoint Giddings as DCEO

THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Tuesday appointed former Information Technology Manager, Aneal Giddings as the Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO).

Giddings was appointed to the position following a statutory meeting of the Commission on Tuesday.

This was confirmed by GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj in an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle.

He said Giddings received the votes of the three government-appointed commissioners. In contrast, the opposition-appointed commissioners opposed the former IT manager’s appoint-

ment.

The deciding vote was, as such, cast by Chairperson of GECOM, Justice Ret’d Claudette Singh in favour of

Giddings.

The DCEO post was left vacant after the former office holder, Roxanne Myers, was booted from the position in August 2021.

Myers’ termination stemmed from the successful passage of three motions which were filed calling for her, Keith Lowenfield and Clairmont Mingo to be summarily dismissed.

When the matter was finally put to a vote, it received the support of GECOM’s Chairperson, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh.

GECOM, in 2022 re-advertised the DCEO post, along with a few other posts within the Commission.

Hastings-Williams, driver blocked from entering Congress Place

A VIDEO has surfaced on social media showing the General Secretary of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R), Dawn Hastings-Williams, and her driver being locked out of the party’s Sophia headquarters on Monday.

In the viral video, Hastings-Williams’ black car is seen blocking the entrance to Congress Place, thereby preventing other vehicles from exiting the compound.

Hastings-Williams exited the vehicle and attempted to open the gate. As a result, security officers intervened.

The reason for the denied entry remains unclear.

The incident has sparked a lot of discussion and speculation among members of the public, with many questioning the reasons behind the lockout.

Some have speculated that the incident is the result of a power struggle within the party, while others believe it may be related to internal party politics.

The PNC/R in a brief official statement regarding the incident, shot down claims

that Hastings-Williams was prevented from entering the headquarters.

“The PNCR wishes to assure that at no time was Mrs Hastings-Williams prevented from entering Congress Place, and we condemn these efforts by detractors who wish to sow seeds of discord and strife,” the opposition party said.

Meanwhile, in another section of the media, the party’s leader, Aubrey Norton, is quoted as saying there were “other matters” that caused Hastings-Williams to temporarily lose access.

The party has seen the resignations of two of its leaders, including Geeta Chandan-Edmond and its treasurer, Faaiz Mursaline. Mursaline reportedly left as a result of issues related to financial mismanagement and alleged racial discrimination.

Meanwhile, Chandan-Edmond reportedly resigned after being on leave for months and following concerns that she was not allowed to fully function in her capacity as General Secretary.

Aneal Giddings

General Secretary of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R), Dawn Hastings-Williams

A snippet of the video showing Dawn Hastings-Williams attempting to open the gate at Congress Place

Another APNU+AFC procurement breach exposed — former PS admits rules were bent for contractor

FORMER Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Legal Affairs under the APNU+AFC, Joylyn Nestor-Burrowes, on Monday, acknowledged that procurement laws were breached when a contractor was allowed to carry out works without a written contract.

Speaking as a member of the PAC, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira joined by Public Works

Minister, Juan Edghill raised serious concerns about the contract.

The Auditor General in his 2019 report, said that the contract for upgrading of main electrical breakers to facilitate a solar photovoltaic (PV) system was awarded by the Ministerial Tender Board in the sum of $852,180 to the lowest of three bidders.

As of December 31, 2019, the full contract sum was paid to the contractor.

An audit examination of the payment voucher, related documents and the physical verification revealed that certification of the inspection works and the defects liability period was done one month before the contract was signed.

According to the AG’s report, the contract was signed on July 29, 2019. However, the certification of inspection works was done on June 16, 2019, while the defects liability period was listed as June 15– 16 June 2019.

During the PAC hearing, Nestor-Burrowes, when questioned about the contract, said: “I don’t recall if the contractor was not available at that

time, but it was [the] lowest contract. I really can’t remember to tell you the truth of God right now.

“To avoid major disruptions of the ministry’s work, the project was given some amount of urgency…we agreed we would have breached the regulation,” the former PS told the Committee.

Both government and opposition PAC members emphasised the need for a strong message to be sent to accounting officers.

“… I’m saying to you that it is not something that should be tolerated at any point in time and the fact remains that checks and balances and systems that are in place ought to be followed... What you did here was to clearly make the system a rubber stamp. That cannot be tolerated and must be [dealt with],” PAC member Ganesh Mahipaul said.

PAC Chairman Jermaine Figueira said that the committee stands resolutely to ensure that every accounting officer is held responsible when they are executing their duties on behalf of the state or an agency.

They must follow the law to the ‘T’,” Figueira said.

Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Legal Affairs under the APNU+AFC, Joylyn Nestor-Burrowes

Guyanese captain, crew bringing MV MA Lisha to Guyana

with 18 crew members, can also carry 14 sedan-type vehicles and two trucks. It is ideal for this route and we are especially happy to bear witness to the improvements that this will bring to the lives of residents, who will now be able to travel more freely, frequently, and comfortably.

“The economic gains for local businesses are also

expected to be many, as persons shipping produce in and out of Region One will now have access to a cold and cool-room storage, thereby reducing spoilage. The vessel can also accommodate up to 250 tonnes of cargo,” Minister Edghill said.

The MV MA Lisha has a front-loading/ offloading ramp which can accommo-

date easy loading and discharging of cargo at ports she will call on. The vessel also has side-boarding capacity. A total of 19 navigational, mechanical and auxiliary staff of the Transport and Harbours Department were trained in India during 2022 and earlier this year, to operate the new ferry vessel.

THE MV MA Lisha is scheduled to arrive in Guyana by this weekend, after setting sail from Kolkata to Chennai, and then making its way through the Atlantic Ocean to Trinidad, on April 2, 2023.

According to a release from the Ministry of Public Works, on April 3, 2023, the vessel was offloaded from the MV Sun Rise at the Port of Chaguaramas, as it prepares

to sail to Guyana.

On board the vessel to guide it home to Guyana is a 14-member Guyanese crew led by Captain Courtney McDonald, veteran Guyanese Captain and Director of Maritime Safety at the Maritime Administration Department.

The Guyanese crew is complemented by three crew members from Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited, and two technicians

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, expressed his delight at the impending arrival, reiterating the government’s pursuit of transforming and improving the country’s transport infrastructure, especially for the hinterland regions.

“This new North-Westbound ferry which has the capacity to accommodate up to 276 passengers, along

Hard Rock Café donates $2M to Help & Shelter

HARD Rock Cafe Guyana has presented $2 million to Help & Shelter in recognition of international women’s month.

According to a press release: “Hard Rock Cafe Guyana admires the excellent work that Help & Shelter does for the community and is committed to its corporate responsibility and enjoys

working within the community and is also part of the Foundation.”

Hard Rock Cafe Guyana partnered with Help & Shelter to support and spread awareness about domestic violence against women.

“Hard Rock International continues to provide career mentorship between junior and senior executives and

provide tools and resources through its Women in Leadership programme,” the company said.

Since the programme’s inception in 2016, over 1,000 female team members have participated in the mentorship programme and/or a brand-hosted educational conference.

from MACORP.

Hard Rock Cafe Guyana has presented $2 million to Help & Shelter in recognition of international women’s month

Public Works Ministry warns against encumbering roadways, reserves

THE Ministry of Public Works has reiterated that it is an offence, under the Road Act of the Laws of Guyana, Chapter 51:01, to encumber roadways and road reserves.

“We have observed that main roadways along the East Bank, East Coast, West Bank and West Coast Demerara Public Roads, as well as the Sheriff Street and Mandela Avenue roadways, are increasingly encumbered by equipment, trucks and trailers such as those shown below that were observed along Sheriff Street and Mandela Avenue,” the Public Works Ministry said.

This, the ministry related, is an unsafe practice due to the risk of accidents and injuries to road users and must be discontinued.

“The Ministry of Public Works hereby states that all such encumbrances on roadways and road reserves must be removed with immediate effect. Failure to comply will result in the ministry utilising all appropriate measures to have those encumbrances removed and charges administered in accordance with Chapter 51:01 of the Road Act of the Laws of Guyana,” the ministry said.

Some of the vehicles and trailers that are encumbering the Sheriff Street and Mandela Avenue roadways

Lorena Solórzano Salazar appointed IDB representative to Guyana

THE Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) has appointed Lorena Solórzano Salazar as its representative to Guyana, effective April 1, 2023.

According to a press release from the IDB, Solórzano Salazar, a citizen of Ecuador, holds a master degree in business administration from IDE Business School and a degree in business engineering from Espíritu Santo University in Guayaquil.

She has led the Bank’s Country Office in Guyana in an interim capacity since October 2021 and has served as chief of operations

in the country since September 2018.

Solórzano Salazar joined the IDB Group in 2009 in the Country Department for Central America, Haiti, Mexico, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. Prior to her time in Guyana, she advised the Country Department’s regional manager in areas related to portfolio management.

Before joining the IDB Group, she worked on various export- and investment-promotion strategies in her home country and accumulated experience in business management and public-private partnerships.

Demerara Criminal Assizes opens with almost 300 cases listed for trial

THE Demerara April 2023 Criminal Assizes commences on Tuesday with 281 cases listed to be heard.

Justice Sandil Kissoon, together with Madam Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and Justice Navindra Singh are rostered to sit during this session.

The Criminal Assizes opened with a parade hosted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) during which Justice Singh inspected the ranks in the company of his fellow judges.

The parade was held in front of the Georgetown

High Court, amid much pomp and ceremony. It was also witnessed by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George.

Of the 281 cases listed, 112 are for sexual offences, including rape, carnal knowledge and buggery.

According to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chambers, during the January Assizes, the State disposed of 49 matters. Of these, 19 were for sexual offences, 15 for murder, one for attempted murder with an alternate count of discharging a loaded firearm with intent and two for the offence of murder in

the furtherance of a robbery.

The remaining 12 matters were nolle prosequi by the DPP.

There were 10 guilty pleas, two convictions, 17 formal verdicts of not guilty, 8 verdicts of not guilty, and one hung jury. There was a total of 43 accused in relation to those matters.

Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall and Justice Jo-Ann Barlow were the judges who heard cases during the January Assizes.

New IDB Guyana Representative, Lorena Solórzano Salazar

Inmates record success in agricultural, tilapia harvesting programmes

INMATES have recorded immense success in the agricultural and tilapia programmes ongoing at the Lusignan, New Amsterdam, Mazaruni and Timehri prisons.

Regarding the agriculture programme, according to a press release from the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot said the programme is equipping inmates with

skills in farming and animal husbandry.

Elliot related that largescale farming represents a “strategic goal” to maximise yields from the GPS’ investment in the agricultural sector.

According to the Director of Prisons, the first quarter of this year was very productive since a total of 698 kilogrammes of Pak Choy were harvested, 666 pounds

of Boulanger, 577 pounds of bora among other vegetables and fruits were also reaped across the various farming locations.

Additionally, the inmates reared cattle and pigs, resulting in production of 383 kilogrammess of meat. Eight hundred and thirty nine trays of eggs were also produced.

Farming is done at the New Amsterdam, Mazaruni, Lusignan and Timehri prisons

with efforts being focused on ensuring that farms are utilised to adequately supply the needs of the prison population in the coming years.

Further, at the Timehri prison, staff and inmates harvested their second batch of Red Tilapia last Monday.

Officer-in-charge of the location, Assistant Superintendent of Prisons, Amias Benjamin, said while the project forms part of the

efforts by the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) to boost its self-sustaining food-supply programme, it will also enhance the rehabilitation efforts accessible to the inmates.

“While the venture would also provide a great source of protein that would complement and enhance inmates’ diet, it would allow the inmates to be trained in aquaculture, in addition to the other programmes offered to the prisoners,” Benjamin said.

The GPS has embarked on an aquaculture initiative with the rearing of Red Tilapia at its Timehri Prison location last year. It is a pilot project of the prison module, spearheaded by the Satyadeo Sawh Aquaculture Station. Elliot said the project clearly demonstrates that the GPS is extending its rehabilitation programmes and finding more ways to help prisoners develop their existing skills, or discover their skills and talents.

The first quarter of this year was very productive since a total of 698 kilograms of Pak Choy were harvested, 666 pounds of Boulanger, 577 pounds of bora among other vegetables and fruits were also reaped across the various farming locations

Staff and inmates at the Timehri prison harvested their second batch of Red Tilapia last Monday

Former murder accused loses $100M lawsuit against State

be dismissed.

The judge later remarked that no charge should be instituted against someone when there is no evidence to properly prosecute him or her. She expressed her dissatisfaction with the DPP for wasting judicial time.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that Ramna -

ress was found dead on the morning of August 31, 2013, with a stab wound and injuries to her head and body, in the garage of her Diamond, East Bank Demerara home. While petrol had been thrown all over her house, it was the bond at the back of the yard that was set alight

and destroyed. The police suspected that Bailey was involved in her death. However, he had told police investigators that, at the time of his wife’s demise, he was on active duty and therefore had a solid alibi.

Bailey’s former co-accused, Colin Grant, had confessed to the crime and

was sentenced to 21 years in prison by Justice Barlow. Grant, however, said he was only the lookout man and the mastermind behind the crime was his friend, Paul Bascom, who was killed during a police shootout in December 2013.

FORMER policeman, Colin Bailey, who spent over five years behind bars on a murder charge, despite the lack of evidence against him, has lost the $100 million lawsuit he filed against the State.

High Court Judge, Nareswhar Harnanand, last Friday, dismissed Bailey’s action against the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), for unlawful imprisonment, malicious prosecution and the breach of his fundamental right.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Bailey by his attorneys, Nigel Hughes, Ronald Daniels and Konyo Sandiford.

The orders primarily sought declarations that Bailey’s constitutional rights were breached and damages for those breaches.

Back in July 2021, Bailey had filed a Fixed Date Application (FDA) before Justice Damone Younge, for a declaration that his right to a fair hearing within a reasonable time as guaranteed was infringed by the State. However, Justice Younge found that there was no such breach.

The State, in summary, strongly denied the infringement of any constitutional rights and contended that the claimant was seeking the same reliefs he sought in the previous application and was attempting to mask this fact by itemizing at what stages the alleged breaches occurred.

It was strongly advanced that the claimant sought to relitigate matters that were already heard and deter -

mined on their merit by Justice Younge.

Justice Harnanand found that Bailey was misusing or abusing the process of the court by bringing up issues that should reasonably have been brought in the earlier proceedings.

Justice Harnanand ruled that the action brought was “res-judicata” and there was nothing barring the claimant from putting all the facts in the previous case which was determined by Justice Younge.

Bailey’s statement of claim was dismissed and $150,000 in cost was awarded to the State.

Bailey was charged for allegedly killing his partner of 21 years, Sirmattie Ramnaress, in 2013.

He was charged for the capital offence three years after the crime was committed. A preliminary inquiry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court determined that there was “sufficient” evidence against him to face a judge and jury.

Because of the type of offence, he could not be granted bail and had to remain incarcerated until his trial. He was committed to stand trial on November 22, 2016.

On October 13, 2021, as the three final witnesses were preparing to give evidence in his High Court trial, state prosecutor Sarah Martin was asked by Justice Jo-Ann Barlow if their testimonies would tie Bailey to the crime.

In response, she conceded that there was no evidence linking him to the crime. Hughes then made a submission for the charge to

Colin Bailey

Housing employee dismissed over illegal land sales —

AS the government continues its aggressive housing drive, it has been ‘uncovered’ that individuals were falling prey and becoming involved in fraudulent land sales.

That was revealed, on Tuesday, by the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, at the first ‘Dream Realised’ hous -

ing drive for 2023, at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre.

He stated that he was addressing the matter publicly because the Ministry had received numerous complaints.

The minister also disclosed that a housing employee was dismissed last month on similar grounds.

Minister Croal, team caution public against falling prey to scams

He further labelled offenders as “unscrupulous” for trying to “sell dreams” and take advantage of others.

“But we want to make it very clear, it is only the Ministry (that’s Brickdam), the regional offices, or when we have special exercises like today where payments are done,” he

warned.

The Minister’s warning serves as a timely reminder for the public to exercise caution and avoid falling prey to such schemes.

In addition, he urged the populace to be wary and work with the Ministry and the police to penalise offenders.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal

House lot allottees express joy, relief at ‘Dream Realised’ Housing Drive

HUNDREDS of people flocked to the ‘Dream Realised’ Housing drive’s first activity for 2023. Many applicants expressed joy after receiving the phone call to visit the housing drive held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

The Guyana Chronicle spoke to a few attendees

who received their house lots on Tuesday.

Mother of two, Shabiki Innis, in an invited comment, shared with this publication that she felt relieved since she had applied since 2015.

“I’m happy because I’m a parent and also being somebody who’s a career person and working hard,

it’s

good to achieve your own home”, she stated.

Thirty-year-old Gabriel Gilkes, who applied for a house lot in 2013, asserted that he could not contain his happiness because he had endured such a long wait.

“I’m happy, especially as a person with a disability… this is my chance to gain some sort of fi -

nancial independence”, he affirmed.

Bibi Mohabir, who came with her husband and two children, informed this publication that she had applied in 2010.

“I have been waiting so long. It was stressful,” she noted.

She further stated that she felt relieved and sur-

prised when she got the phone call to visit the housing drive.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, in congratulating the allottees during his feature address stated that “owning your own home… is a personal achievement that all strive for.”

According to the Min-

ister, the initiative will help the Ministry reach its goal of allocating 10,000 houselots by 2023.

He also highlighted that it was another illustration of how the current administration was keeping to its promise to offer affordable housing options.

Bibi Mohabir and her family (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

Shabiki Innis (right) and her friend Crystal Daniels after receiving their ownership documents in first ‘Dream Realised’ 2023 housing drive (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

Gabriel Gilkes (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

Tsai’s daydreaming ‘stopover’ in New York

DESPITE all the fanfare, Taiwan leader Tsai Ingwen’s news briefing during her first “stopover” in New York was, at first, delayed and ultimately cancelled. Her speech at the Hudson Institute was made behind closed doors.

The Wall Street Journal even described her trip as “purposely low-key.”

However, her trip received a fierce, reception from a large number of Chinese Americans, who thronged the street outside her hotel to sing Ode to the Motherland against her advocacy of Taiwan “independence”, while local US residents gathered to protest against her selling war to the United States.

She might want to forget

the 32 hours she spent on US territory. By voicing their opposition, the Chinese Americans have shown their determination to seek national reunification, while local residents made clear they did not want their country to get involved with the Taiwan question.

Anybody with a rational mind in the US knows that

Taiwan is China’s core interest and US interference is not welcome. Also, supporting a few secessionists on the island in no way helps US interests.

More countries are realising how futile this is, with Honduras becoming the 182nd country to establish diplomatic ties with China.

Tsai’s Taiwan “indepen -

dence” plan goes against the mainstream thought of the world. No one with a rational mind will side with her.

Days before she embarked on her trip, Tsai presented an award to former national security adviser of the US, Robert C. O’Brien, who had prompted Taiwan to adopt a “hedgehog strategy”, making it a military tool

of the US at the cost of local people’s lives.

While he is not someone the locals admire, Tsai insisted on honouring him, exposing her true intention of sacrificing people’s interests, even lives, to please her US bosses. She is daydreaming and won’t succeed. (MA XUEJING/ CHINA DAILY)

GTT contributes to Rupununi Rodeo 2023

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), announced its support for the upcoming Rupununi Rodeo 2023, last Friday, when Chief Operations Officer (COO)

of the company’s Business Solutions, Orson Ferguson, donated G$500,000 to Director of the Rupununi Livestock Association, Christina Edwards.

According to GTT, the

company’s contribution will go towards prizes for the male and female categories of barrel races in the annual display of talent by cattle farmers on April 9 and 10. The event will take place at

the Triple R Rodeo ground as the dry season comes to an end.

Ferguson said that the decades old activity that occurs before the May-June rain, is now a highly anticipated event on the national calendar and GTT is proud to be associated with the growth of the festivities.

“The Rodeo attracts thousands of persons to the Rupununi annually. It promotes tourism and many visitors from across the region and even internationally set their calendar to experience the excitement. It is an excellent display of Guyana beyond the coastland, and we want to see it continue to grow,” he said.

He added that GTT’s contribution is just a small

way that the company is building on its commitment to strengthening communities.

Director of the Rupununi Livestock Association, Christina Edwards, said that the Rodeo this year promises to be a very exciting one and the organising committee is appreciative of the support it is receiving from GTT Inc.

“Everyone loves the adventure and it’s the biggest economic activity in the Region annually. It’s like Christmas in the Rupununi and we’re happy to have GTT onboard as we celebrate our unique cultural heritage and share the experience that the Rupununi has to offer,” Edwards said.

She said that the gates to the event will open at 10:00

hours and the festivities will go on into the evening when the climate is better for the animals. Among the many horseback riding activities, patrons can also expect numerous side attractions.

The Rodeo is a major highlight on Guyana’s cultural calendar, showcasing traditional cowboy skills and horsemanship, as well as offering a range of entertainment and family activities.

The event is also an important opportunity to support the local community since proceeds from ticket sales and donations go towards development projects in the region.

GTT’s donation will help to ensure that the Rupununi Rodeo 2023 is a resounding success.

Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the company’s Business Solutions, Orson Ferguson, donated G$500,000 to Director of the Rupununi Livestock Association, Christina Edwards

Mischievous, misleading to assume gov’t not actively pursuing closure of cost audit

“Reference is made to the article titled “First Audit of Oil expenses found $214 million in questionable claims by Exxon and partners,” which was featured in the Sunday edition of the Stabroek News dated April 02, 2023, and continued in the Monday edition of April 03, 2023.

“In view of the assertions made by the writer, foremost among which is that “the Guyana Government has kept the report hidden for two years”, it is behooving of the Revenue Authority to apprise the public of the efforts made and progress realised to date, in substantiating the contractors’ expenditure claims for the Stabroek Block pursuant to the provisions of Article 23 and Annex C, Section 1.5 of the 1999 and 2016 Petroleum Agreements, while at the same time putting to rest, any claim that the intention is to keep the report hidden.

“In November, 2019, the Government of Guyana entered into a contractual arrangement with IHS Markit (IHSM) for the provision of Consultancy Services to execute the country’s inaugural Cost Recovery Audit. The Audit scope entailed the examination all Pre-Contract Costs, as stated in Annex C Section 3.1 (k) and all Exploration and Development Costs as at December 31, 2017.

“Given the paucity of resources nationally, several agencies collaborated to form Guyana’s Audit team, namely, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Guyana Geology and Mines and Commission (GGMC) and the former Department of Energy (DE) now a technical Department within the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). The Auditor General’s Office was also requested to have its team be a part of the said audit but declined to do so.

“The Guyanese representatives were expected to shadow and understudy

the IHSM Experts during the course of the audit in an effort to facilitate transfer of knowledge and technical “know-how” and generally, to build capacity to conduct cost oil audits locally. They were also expected to jointly execute the audit with IHSM.

“As per the agreement with IHSM, there were three distinct reports which were delineated as deliverables, these were, the Initial Audit Report, the Intermediate Audit Report and the Final Audit Report.

“Subsequent to a period of preliminary analyses undertaken by the consultants and Guyanese team, IHSM submitted the Initial Audit Report to the Heads of GRA, DE and GGMC on March 20, 2020. The Initial Audit Report was reviewed by the GRA team, based on their work assignments and a report was submitted to DE for transmittal to IHSM.

“Key work streams were established by the Cost Audit Team in devising a methodical and cogent approach to executing the Cost Recovery Audit and producing the Intermediate and Final Audit Reports.

“A period of intense auditing followed which led to the development of various detailed audit reports for each key work stream.

On July 31, 2020, IHSM submitted a compiled report which they referred to as the ‘Final Audit Report’, along with the reports for each work stream. The Fiscal Impact Assessment was also submitted by IHSM.

“However, the Guyana Revenue Authority noted that there was a breach of contractual terms, as well as, Audit Standards and good practices when IHSM attempted to by-pass the Interim Audit Report requirement.

“Through the DE, it was related to IHSM that a Final Audit Report cannot be compiled until the Contractor (or Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, in their capacity as the Operator, of the Stabroek Block) is issued with a ‘Written Report’ in conformance with Annex C Section 1.5(B) of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), which states inter alia:

“At the conclusion of each audit, the Parties shall endeavour to settle outstanding matters and a written report will be issued to the Contractor within sixty (60) days of the conclusion of such audit.

“The report shall include all claims arising from such audit. The contractor shall reply to the report in writing as soon as possible and in any event

ty reviewed the respective reports and conveyed official comments. In depth reports were compiled and submitted to IHSM. In particular, in early 2021, the GRA penned its concerns to IHSM of the following major deficiencies that recurred throughout its report, namely:

1. The Lack of recommendations in the report;

2. Failure to refer to Industry standards and good practises for specific findings

3. Inaccuracies as it relates to analysing and reviewing the financials

4. General inconsistencies and deficiencies

Government of Guyana.

“Premised on the advice of the Guyana Revenue Authority, the Ministry of Natural Resources presented the Audit Report to the Esso Exploration and Production Limited (EEPGL) on July 2, 2021, in its official capacity as Operator of the Stabroek Block to facilitate the Contractor’s response.

“During the period July 19, 2021 to March 4, 2022, there were ongoing correspondences between EEPGL, the Ministry of Natural Resources and IHSM.

not later than 60 days following receipt of the report indicating acceptance or rejection of the audit claim and in the case of a rejection showing explanations thereof.

“This means that the contractor, in accordance with the stipulations of the PSA and Audit standards, must be allowed to respond to the “written report” or draft audit report. The response of the auditee, along with the additional evidential material provided, must be taken into consideration whilst compiling the Final Audit Report.

“The GRA pointed out that it was its firm opinion that a Final Audit Report should only be issued after the Auditee is given an opportunity to officially respond to the initial findings of the draft report. “Thereafter, their response(s), along with the evidential material submitted, should be considered prior to drafting a Final Audit Report. As in the law of equity where “he who asserts must prove”, similarly, the auditee has a “right to be heard”.

“Thereafter, two iterations of the ‘Audit Report’ were issued by IHSM between July, 2020 and November, 2020 (June, 2021). It should be noted that in each instance, the Guyana Revenue Authori-

5. Failure to adopt suggestions and recommendations, as well as, address concerns emanating from Government of Guyana Representatives.

“The GRA further advised that the foregoing, in its opinion had significant adverse effects on the quality of the report and its ability to attain the desired outcomes of arresting unsound financial practises on the part of the contractor and improving Governmental controls.

Lastly the GRA further requested IHSM to revise the Draft Audit Report, once again, to take account of the issues highlighted in and attached GoG report which spanned 31 pages. It also instructed IHSM that in view of the urgency of the long outstanding matter, that the Government expected this request to be addressed with the celerity it warrants and that IHSM would submit the resultant ‘Draft Audit Report’ on or before Wednesday, February 3, 2021 for onward transmittal to the Contractors.

“During 2020 and 2021, legal advice was also solicited by the Government and obtained as it relates to significant issues arising during the audit and the forms of recourse available to the

“In an effort to conclude the Audit, in November 2022, the Ministry of Natural Resources reached out to GRA to obtain its no objection to the Cost Audit Report. Nonetheless, there were legal, procedural and accounting concerns which deterred the Authority from granting its no objection.

“The GRA and the MNR continue to actively liaise and review the “Final” Audit Report and all Subsidiary Reports for the period 1999 to 2017. Upon completion of its review, its findings shall be made public.

“It is therefore mischievous and misleading to intimate that the Government of Guyana has not been actively pursuing closure of the audit and by extension the necessary adjustments to the Cost Bank. It is also reckless and unnecessarily inciting for a known and reputable news outlet to feature and quote a leaked and invalidated document, without seeking a response from the responsible parties.

“The Guyana Revenue Authority urges responsible journalism, and pledges to continue to play its role (in spite of its scarce resources) in ensuring that Guyana receives its fair share of profit petroleum and taxes.”

The following is the full statement regarding the matter at reference by GRA Commissioner-General Mr. Godfrey Statia:

GRA Commissioner-General Mr. Godfrey Statia

Alzarri, Romario and proper... FROM BACKPAGE

intensity of his fast bowler’s approach. This fired up Alzarri’s enthusiasm to fetch victory against a foe that WI had not conquered on their home turf in almost ten years,in any format of the game.

It drove him to win the game by blowing away five of the opponents’ batsmen for 40 runs. It was indeed a worthy effort. He toppled the dangerous Quinton de Kock for 21, with the score at 32. The target of 221 kept getting smaller when he was brought back into the attack, instantly removing attacking left-handed batsman David Miller for 11. At 149/3, some sort of balance was achieved, however, South Africa still held the upper hand.

Joseph never lost his cool and got rid of three more wickets with the game in the balance. WI won the game by seven runs and with that victory, the series.

It was a magnificent performance generated by skipper Powell who seems to know how to get the best from his players. Yet, this would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the batting of Romario Shepherd in the lower order. At the close he was not out with 44 runs and Joseph on 14. They came together at 161/8 and added 59 for the undefeated ninth wicket. Shepherd was brilliant with the bat as he bludgeoned the bowlers using only 22 balls. It was a great effort by these two;

Shepherd in the batting and Alzarri in bowling, plus a supporting role as batsman.

It was a fine feat by the West Indian team and praises are in order.

All this is to prove that cricket is a game not only for those who are adept at playing with a bat and ball or for those who are blessed with co-ordination of hand and feet, or even the number of people possessing natural ability. Not at all. It also goes to prove that one has to use their mental capacity to progress, to become better and better to reach the top.

For the young cricketers who are impressed with the game and love to enjoy all aspects of competition, knowing that it’s one that is played for the deep personal satisfaction of being better than one’s opponent, a lot more has to be known of the game.

Eventually, one understands that learning the art of batting, for instance, does not mean only the proper way to hold the bat, but also in how to run between the wickets; placing the ball between and away from fieldsmen; to concentrate and how much is involved in building an innings, thus establishing a score in order to satisfy one’s team with a good total.

It cannot be done without concentration, applying some brainwork in how to build an innings, thus having an advantage on your adversary. The same goes

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday April 05, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Lions

(2) Rashid Khan (GL)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many games were scheduled for IPL 2009?

(2) Which two teams contested the first IPL game in 2009?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

for bowling and fielding, with the understanding that all together the team works for their own advantage to get the better of the opponent.

Do not be carried away by the doubters and crucifiers who don’t believe that WI deserve any praise whatsoever.

There are many things that need improving but WI cricketers have to keep trying in spite of the naysayers. WI cricket produces some of the best players, the

most flamboyant, eccentric and charismatic cricketers worldwide. Although the big, rich cricket countries in the world are robbing us of our talent because of our lack of financial resources, we still have to fight and keep producing them for the sake of cricket, plus the character and development of our beloved Caribbean countries.

Congrats coach Andre Coley and captain Rovman Powell. (TT Newsday)

ies and along with Madramootoo, who started cautiously, added 36 for the third wicket before Barkoye was lbw to Qzel Sampson, the sister of Essequibo senior team’s Quintin Sampson, at 69-2 in the 21st over.

Madramootoo, who favoured the cuts and pulls, was joined by her Captain and the pair batted positively before Madramootoo reached her maiden 50 at this level.

Just when Demerara were looking at a total close to 300, the experienced Persaud struck three times in the space of seven runs to put the brakes on the scoring.

With the score in 199, Persaud, taking advantage of a very strong breeze blowing across the ground from Atlantic Ocean, less than 50 yards from the Northern Sight Screen, trapped Madramootoo lbw

Persaud got rid of Lynda Sylvan and Heema Singh in quick succession as Demerara slipped to 206-5.

Shultz, who reached her fifty in the last over and Latisha Jordon (5) were the not out batters when their allotted overs expired Essequibo face Berbice at Bourda tomorrow in the next match while Berbice play Demerara in the final round at Bourda.

One-off Test in Dhaka

Bangladesh lose two after Taijul’s five-for dismisses Ireland for 214

BANGLADESH dominated Ireland’s first day back in Test cricket, bowling them out for 214 in the first innings of the one-off Test in Dhaka.

(Scores: Bangladesh 34 for 2 (Tamim 21, Mominul 12*, Adair 1-3) trail Ireland 214 (Tector 50, Tucker 37, Taijul 5-58) by 180 runs

Taijul Islam took his eleventh five-wicket haul as the six -man bowling attack kept themselves ahead in most situations. The home side ended the day on 34 for 2, with Tamim Iqbal falling to Andy McBrine off the last ball of the day after looking quite confident for the last half an hour along with Mo-

minul Haque. But McBrine got one to kick at Tamim’s forward press, to take the edge and fly to second slip where Mark Adair

took the catch. He had earlier bowled Najmul Hossain Shanto with an in-ducker, the ball taking the inside edge on to the stumps,

in the first over. The Ireland players were cock-a-hoop with the late wicket in an otherwise difficult day.

Ireland made 214, their highest first innings score in Tests, batting out all but 30 minutes of the first day’s play. In a batting line-up that had six debutants and playing a Test after four years, it wasn’t a bad effort at the Shere Bangla National Stadium’s challenging conditions.

Harry Tector’s fifty had some delectable shots, particularly his drives down the ground. He also slammed a straight six, but fell prematurely after adding 74 runs for the fourth wicket with Curtis Campher. It was the highlight of the Ireland innings as the pair played some splendid

shots in the first hour of the second session. Ireland were at their most comfortable during this time, but it was roughly an hour before things started to change for the visitors.

They got together after Ireland lost three wickets in the first session. Shoriful Islam removed Murray Commins with a delivery that cut back into his bat, given out lbw for five. Shanto caught James McCollum at second slip, at the second attempt, after the batter edged Ebadot Hossain.

The Tector-Campher partnership ended when Mehidy Hasan Miraz bowled Tector with a classic offbreak turning through his forward press. Tector struck six fours and a six in

his 50 off 92 balls. This was a bad time for Ireland as they also lost PJ Moor, playing his first Test for Ireland after playing eight matches for Zimbabwe, and Campher, in the space of eighteen balls.

Ireland could have folded early from 124 for 6, but they added another 90 runs for the last four wickets. Tucker added 35 for the seventh wicket with McBrine, before adding another 40 with Mark Adair, who made 32 off 52 balls.

Taijul removed Tucker and Adair to complete his five-for. Mehidy closed out the innings with Ben White’s wicket in the 78th over.

Taijul Islam picked up his 11th five-wicket haul in Tests • (BCB)

New York Knicks beat

Washington Wizards 118109 to reach NBA play-offs

THE New York Knicks beat the Washington Wizards 118-109 to become the latest team to book their place in the NBA play-offs.

Quentin Grimes and Jalen Brunson each scored 27 points to give the Knicks a fourth consecutive victory.

The Atlanta Hawks’ overtime win against the Dallas Mavericks then eliminated the Wizards from play- in contention.

The Toronto Raptors secured a play-in spot after the 2019 champions beat the Charlotte Hornets 128-108.

The regular NBA season concludes 9 April, with the play-in tournament 11-14 April and the play-offs starting 15 April.

Atlanta’s win over Dallas keeps the Mavericks struggling to reach the play-offs, despite bringing in Kyrie Irving in February.

Trae Young scored 24 points and a pair of free throws with 1.8 seconds left in overtime to give the Hawks a 132-130 win.

Dallas had chances to win the game at the end of regulation time and overtime but suffered a third consecutive loss - their seventh in eight matches.

Irving scored 41 points for the Mavericks, his most since joining from the Brooklyn Nets, but was deemed to have

fouled Young with the scores level, giving him the chance to score the winning points from the free-throw line.

Kevin Durant, who was also traded by Brooklyn late in the season, scored 35 points to lead the Phoenix Suns to a 128-118 win at the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Durant scored 13 of his points in the fourth quarter to help his new team hold off a Thunder rally and secure a

season as the Los Angeles Lakers claimed a 134-109 win over the Houston Rockets.

LeBron James posted his second triple-double, including 18 points, as the Lakers secured a sixth win in seven games to remain just outside the play-off places in the west.

The Milwaukee Bucks lead the Eastern Conference and recovered from a heavy defeat by the Boston Celtics

fifth consecutive win.

Oklahoma City have lost five of their past seven games but remain one game up on Dallas in 10th place in the Western Conference standings, the final spot for the play-in tournament.

Anthony Davis recorded his third 40-point game of the

to beat the Philadelphia 76ers 117-104.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 33 points and grabbed 14 rebounds for the Bucks while Joel Embiid, one of his rivals for this season’s MVP award, claimed 28 points for the 76ers.(BBC Sport).

Immanuel Quickley (left) was one of four players who scored at least 20 points for the Knicks

Amir Khan banned for two years for doping violation

BRITISH boxer Amir Khan has been banned for two years after an anti-doping test revealed the presence of a banned substance following his fight against Kell Brook in February 2022.

The former light-welterweight world champion tested positive for ostarine.

Khan, who retired from boxing in May, accepted he broke anti-doping rules but said it was not intentional.

An independent tribunal accepted that argument, ruling out “deliberate or reckless conduct” by the 36-year-old.

“I ’ve never cheated,” Khan told Sky Sports News. “But I’ve got a two-year ban now, which is quite strange and funny because I’m already retired anyway.

“ There’s no comeback planned at all. But I’ve never cheated and I never will. That’s just not something I

would do.”

Khan says he has “no idea” how the banned substance ended up in his system.

“I have to take some sort of responsibility. End of the day it’s been found in my system. I can honestly say this is something I would never ever do

“It was such a tiny amount, it was no benefit at all. I should have maybe taken more precautions.

“I don’t want to remembered for something like this,” he said. “That’ll hurt me.”

The UK Anti-Doping ( Ukad) website states ostarine is a drug designed to have similar effects to testosterone.

In October, British sprinter CJ Ujah was banned for 22 months after he tested positive for two banned substances, including ostarine, at the Tokyo Olympics.

Ukad rejected Khan’s defence that the ostarine was transmitted by a tainted supplement or human contact, but also decided the dose was too small to be intentional or give any performance advantage.

“This case serves as a reminder that Ukad will diligently pursue anti-doping rule violations in order to protect clean sport,” Ukad chief executive Jane Rumble said.

“Strict liability means athletes are ultimately responsible for what they ingest and for the presence of any prohibited substances in a sample.”

Boxxer, which promoted the Khan-Brook event, said it was “disappointed” to learn about Khan’s ban via social media on Tuesday, adding it is “vehemently against any use of any illegal or performance-enhancing substances taken by athletes”.

Promoter Ben Shalom says Boxxer was not informed of the positive drugs test and that the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) was only told on Monday.

The ban from all sport is deemed to have begun on 6 April 2022 and expires on 5 April 2024.

Fellow Briton Conor Benn failed two voluntary drug tests for female fertility drug clomifene before his cancelled bout with Chris Eubank Jr in October.

Benn was allowed back into the World Boxing Council rankings after it ruled his failed drug test was not intentional and and could have been caused by a “highly elevated consumption” of eggs.

However, he remains under investigation by Ukad and the BBBofC, and is unable to fight in the United Kingdom as he does not have

a boxing licence.

Khan, who won a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics as a 17-year-old, turned professional in 2005.

In 2009 he became world champion, defeating Andreas Kotelnik at Manchester Arena for the WBA light-welterweight title. His win over Zab Judah in 2011 earned him the IBF belt and unified champion status. Khan then lost the titles in his next fight to Lamont Peterson.

He was beaten by Brook via a sixth-round knockout in what proved to be his final professional bout.

Khan retired from the sport three months later, finishing his career with 34 professional wins and six losses, having turned professional in 2005.

Outside the ring, he has maintained a strong public profile through his appearances in Australia-based reality gameshow I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and his own BBC reality TV show, Meet the Khans: Big in Bolton.He is due to make a second appearance on I’m a Celebrity this month, this time based in South Africa.(BBC Sport)

Nadal remains French Open doubt after Monte Carlo withdrawal

in his left psoas muscle.

But missing the start of the European clay-court season leaves him short of match practice before the Roland Garros event he has won a record 14 times, which begins

on 28 May.

“I’m still not ready to compete at the highest level,” Nadal said on Twitter.

“I will not be able to play in one of the most important tournaments of my career,

Monte Carlo.

“I am not yet in a position to play with the maximum guarantees and I continue my preparation process, hoping to return soon.”

Canada’s world number

seven Felix Auger-Aliassime will also miss next week’s event with a left knee issue, but has said he hopes to be back for the Madrid Open which starts on 26 April. (BBC Sport)

DEFENDING champion Rafael Nadal remains a doubt for the French Open after pulling out of next week’s Monte Carlo Masters with an ongoing hip injury.

The Spanish world number 14 has won the tournament in Monaco 11 times but is not fit to return to action.

The 36- year-old has not played since his straight-set second-round defeat by American Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open in January.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz is also out of Monte Carlo through injury.

The Spaniard, who is chasing Novak Djokovic for the

number one ranking, has hand and back problems.

“After two months abroad I am happy to return home, but sad because I finished my last match in Miami with physical discomfort,” said Alcaraz, who lost to Jannik Sinner in the last four of the Miami Open, on Twitter.

“I will not be able to go to Monte Carlo to start the claycourt tour. I have post-traumatic arthritis in my left hand and muscular discomfort in the spine that needs rest to prepare for everything that is to come.”

Nadal had expected to be out for six to eight weeks after an MRI scan following his Melbourne loss showed a tear

Black Caps batter to join Surrey for five matches

SURREY have signed New Zealand batter Tom Latham for five County Championship matches in June and July.

The 31-year-old has scored 5,150 Test runs at an average of 41.53.

He will join the Division One champions on 11 June for their trip to Kent, with the final match of his stint, against Somerset, starting on 25 July

“He will add to the quality of our batting line up when we are highly likely to lose players for the Ashes,” director of cricket Alec Stewart said.

“As we look to build on the success of 2022, it is important we can bring in quality talent when we need it. I’m confident Tom will be an outstanding addition to the squad of players we already have in place.”

In total, Latham has played 74 Tests, 125 one-dayers and 19 T20 internationals for the Black Caps.

Kell Brook (left) beat Amir Khan in sixth round to settle a bitter rivalry between the two fighters at Manchester Arena in February 2022.

Rafael Nadal is dominant on clay, winning 112 of his 115 French Open matches

Tom Latham has scored 13 Test hundreds for New Zealand and a further seven tons in One-Day Internationals

Sai Sudharsan sees Titans home after their quicks restrict Delhi Capitals

…The defending champions have opened their title defence with two consecutive wins

run stand to take Titans closer. David Miller, who had arrived in Delhi from Johannesburg only the previous day, provided the finishing touches as Titans wrapped up the win with 11 balls to spare.

Shami struggles and then hurts Capitals

The Delhi pitch was lively from the outset and Shami was unable to control his swing, conceding ten runs through wides in his first two overs during the powerplay. He also bowled several superb deliveries, one of which beat David Warner and grazed the off stump but did not dislodge the bail. Shami got Prithvi Shaw to spoon a well-directed short ball to mid-on and had Mitchell Marsh chopping a back of a length ball on to his stumps. Though Capitals managed to score 52 for 2 in the powerplay, none of their batters looked confident

Sarfaraz Khan and Abishek Porel were both struck on the helmet by his ferocious bouncers, as Joseph kept hitting speeds in excess on 145 kilometres per hour.

With pace causing Capitals plenty of problems, legspinner Rashid Khan was brought into the attack only in the 13th over and he had immediate impact. Rashid had Porel playing all around a sharp legbreak second ball, and he dismissed Sarfaraz and Aman Khan in the 17th and 19th overs Only Axar Patel looked comfortable for Capitals, and his 36 off 22 balls helped them reach 162.

The Sudharsan-Vijay Delhi connection

steadily, taking no unnecessary risks and rotating strike while scoring the occasional boundary in between.

ByAshish Pant

THREE-wicket hauls from Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan, backed up a measured unbeaten half-century from B Sai Sudharsan gave the defending champions Gujarat Titans their second consecutive win at the start of the 2023 season. Delhi Capitals suffered their second straight loss, in their first home game this year.

(Scores: Gujarat Titans 163 for 4 (Sudharsan 62*, Nortje 2-39) beat Delhi Capitals 162 for 8 (Warner 37, Rashid 3-31, Shami 3-41, Joseph 2-29) by six wickets

After Shami, Alzarri Joseph and Rashid restricted Capitals to 162 for 8, Anrich Nortje’s pace had Titans in trouble at 54 for 3 in the sixth over. Sudarshan and Vijay Shankar, who was subbed in as Gujarat’s Impact Player for Josh Little, forged a 53-

Joseph and Rashid contain Capitals

Joseph also made life miserable for the Capitals. His first over cost 11 runs but his second was memorable. He first ended Warner’s difficult stay, inducing a thick inside-edge on to the stumps. The next ball was a snorter to Rilee Rossouw, who fended in the air towards point, where Rahul Tewatia dived forward to take a sharp catch. Joseph was quick, mean, and accurate.

Inter-Association round-robin matches conclude tomorrow

Heading into this game, Tamil Nadu team-mates Sudharsan and Vijay had strung together two fifty-run stands in four innings, and coincidentally both of those partnerships had come at the Aurn Jaitley Stadium during the 2021 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

Now, batting for Titans, the pair produced another half-century stand in Delhi after beginning their stand in a difficult situation. Nortje had bowled the openers Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill, and Khaleel Ahmed had Hardik Pandya caught behind. With the asking rate under control, Sudharsan and Shankar built the chase

Sudarshan keeps his head; Miller does what he does best Sudharsan was one of the finds of the tournament last year and comes into this IPL on the back of a terrific domestic season. Though Nortje cranking up the pace and Kuldeep Yadav getting the odd one to rip, he never seemed out of depth. Sudharsan reached his fifty off 44 balls and remained unbeaten at the finish. Miller, on the other hand, found his bearings from the start, cracking Mukesh Kumar for 20 runs in the 16th over to decide the game. Miller was Titans’ mainstay last year with his finishing abilities, and he started this season by having a similar impact.

Impact Players: Khaleel Ahmed and Vijay Shankar

Vijay had a stronger impact on the game than his Delhi counterpart. Khaleel entered the game at the start of the second innings, replacing Sarfaraz Khan, and while he did dismiss Hardik, he went for 38 runs in his four overs. Vijay managed a 23-ball 29 and his partnership with Sudharsan was one that turned the game for the Titans. (Cricinfo)

Banks DIH officially powers up Bartica Easter Regatta

THE long-standing association between beverage giants, Banks DIH, and the community of Bartica was renewed when the company, through three of its major brands -- Banks Beer, GT Beer, and Guinness -- inked a new deal with the organisers of the Bartica Easter Regatta 2023, held under the theme, ‘We Outside.’

Williams noted that this year’s Regatta continues to focus on the empowerment of the community by affording persons the opportunity to compete in multiple sporting and social events. He also noted that, from a financial perspective, members of the community will have the opportunity to earn in every sector.

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/ Tiger Rentals under-13 developmental programme continues today at the National Training Centre (NTC), Providence, and will conclude tomorrow with the final round of play in the inter-association tournament, which is being led by the East Demerara Football Association (EDFA).

East Coast are currently tied with Georgetown on 16 points after both played a total of six (6) matches winning five and drawing once. However, East Coast boast a better goal difference than Georgetown with seven more goals.

Upper Demerara are third with 9 points albeit they have played only five games. East Bank Football Association (EBFA) are fourth with 9 points from six matches played. Bartica are fifth with 6 points, West Berbice stand in sixth with 6 points while West Demerara are seventh with four points and East Berbice close off the table, having secured just a point.

Today, Bartica will play Upper Demerara at 11:00hrs in the lone match of the day. Meanwhile, tomorrow play kicks off at 10:30hrs and will feature two games being played simultaneously. The first two matches will see Bartica matching skills with West Berbice while West Demerara will be pitted with Upper Demerara in the second game.

In the second set of games, which will have their first whistle at 12:00hrs, Georgetown will lock horns with East Bank in match three of the day while East Coast will play East Berbice in game four before the Bartica and Upper Demerara fixture (13:30hrs) closes off the day’s play.

Tiger Rentals Guyana has invested over $10m into this historic under-13 development football initiative. In addition to this inter-association tournament, intra-association play has commenced in Georgetown, West Demerara, Bartica, Linden and Rupununi.

The Branch Manager of the company’s Bartica location, Mr. Keron Savory, confirmed the commitment when he met with the Regional Chairman and Head of the Regatta Committee, Mr. Kenneth Williams, on Tuesday at the Regional Office.

Williams said that the Committee was elated to continue the long and very fruitful relationship with Banks DIH which has always been supportive of activities that empower the community in sports and positive social activities.

“This continued commitment from Banks underpins their commitment to fulfill their corporate and social responsibilities towards the continued upliftment of Bartica and, by extension, Guyana. So, on behalf of the Bartica Easter Regatta Organising Committee , and, by extension, all the communities of this Region, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Management and staff of Banks DIH Bartica Branch and the Banks DIH family at Thirst Park.”

the community, and Regatta is one such medium.

“This activity no doubt is the biggest on the calendar events here, and it is a multi-faceted one with varying activities where persons have choices . We will continue to play our part and we look forward to patrons, visitors, and members of the community

Responding on behalf of the Banks DIH, Mr. Savory posited that his company is just maintaining its obligation towards building

continuing to support our products so that we can continue to maintain and even improve our commitment, to you.”

Sai Sudharsan is filling the gap left by Kane Williamson at No. 3 for Gujarat Titans•(BCCI)

Keron Savory (left) of Banks DIH Bartica Branch hands over the letter of commitment to Easter Regatta Committee and Regional Chairman, Mr. Williams in the presence of Treasurer, Ms. Natalie Tilbury

Some of the action in the Tiger Rentals Under-13 football tournament.

USA seal Qualifier spot, Namibia stay alive

USA became the first team to punch their ticket for the Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier with a thrilling win over Jersey while Namibia live to fight another day with a comfortable win over Canada.

Put in to bat first with a top-two spot up for grabs, USA were restricted to just 231 in their quota of 50 overs. Jersey kept picking wickets at regular intervals but opener Steven Taylor held one end strong. He stitched crucial partnerships with Saiteja Mukkamalla (54run stand) and Gajanand Singh (69 runs) to bail USA out of trouble.

Nisarg Patel and Jessy Singh made vital contributions lower down the order to push USA to a substantial total.

Benjamin Ward was the pick of the bowlers, breaking the back of the USA batting lineup by scalping four wickets.

In reply, Jersey’s chase never took off as Ali Khan ran through the top and middle-order with a five-wicket haul inside the first six overs. Asa Tribe and Jonty Jenner went on

the defensive to curb USA’s ascendency but were already playing catch-up having lost half their side with just 17 runs on board.

Once Jenner was dismissed, Tribe put together a brilliant 97-run stand with Benjamin Ward that gave Jersey hopes of mounting an unlikely comeback before the duo fell within a span of four overs as USA wrested control.

At 168 for eight, Jersey were down and out but there was yet another twist in the tale – Julius Sumerauer and Charles Perchard took the at-

tack to USA and gave their side a glimmer of hope. However, those hopes were dashed as Ali Khan returned and picked up two wickets to finish with figures of seven for 32.

The win, along with Namibia’s victory over Canada, ensured that USA finish in the top two and as a result, sealed the berth in the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier.

Choosing to bat first in a must-win game to keep their Qualifier hopes alive, Shaun Fouché and Nikolaas Davin got Namibia off to a solid start with a 63-run stand. Unfortunately,

Azeem Rafiq open to meeting with Michael Vaughan

“The one thing I’ve always tried to do is try to get in a room and have conversations”

they failed to take advantage of the foundation laid as they kept losing wickets regularly.

Fouché ’s 83 added much-needed stability to the innings as he kept the scorecard ticking with the middle order. Once he fell, Zane Green and Pikky Ya France added 62 runs for the 7th wicket as Namibia posted a strong total of 267 for nine.

In response, Canada made a bright start to their chase but were pegged back by the early wicket of Aaron Johnson. Matthew Spoors and Pargat Singh steadied the ship but the wicket of the opener triggered a mini-collapse, which Canada never managed to recover from.

Canada, who were 64 for one at one point, were soon reduced to 96 for six, with spinners Pikky Ya France and Bernard Scholtz running riot picking up two wickets each. Ravinderpal Singh’s 34 batting at number eight only delayed the inevitable as Canada were bowled out for 156, 111 runs shy of the target. (ICC

Dasun Shanaka replaces Williamson in Gujarat Titans squad

…Sri Lanka’s T20I captain gears up for his maiden IPL stint

GUJARAT Titans have brought in Sri Lankan allrounder Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for Kane Williamson, who was ruled out of IPL 2023 after injuring his knee in the opening game of the season against Chennai Super Kings in Ahmedabad.

Shanaka, Sri Lanka’s T20I captain, is a batting allrounder who has played 181 T20s, scoring 3702 runs at a strike rate of 141.94 and taking 59 wickets with an economy rate of 8.8. He had scored 124 runs at a strike rate of 187.87 during Sri Lanka’s three T20Is in India in January this year. This will be his first stint in the IPL.

In his debut game for Titans, Williamson landed awkwardly - with his right knee buckling under his weight - while attempting a catch at the deep square leg boundary in the 13th over of CSK’s innings.

He had jumped to intercept a ball headed for six off Ruturaj Gaikwad’s bat.

Williamson managed to save two runs, palming the ball into the field of play before

game. Williamson has since returned to New Zealand for further assessment and treatment for his knee injury.

Titans are the defending champions having won the trophy in their maiden season in 2022. They began their title defence with a victory in their opening game against CSK. (Cricinfo)

AZEEM Rafiq has said he is open to meeting Michael Vaughan with a view to finding a way forward for the sport after the findings of the Cricket Discipline Commission’s (CDC) racism hearings were published last week.

On Friday last, Vaughan was cleared of using racist language towards Rafiq and three other players of Asian descent before Yorkshire’s T20 match against Nottinghamshire in 2009.

The former England captain was one of seven individuals formerly connected to Yorkshire who faced charges of bringing the game into disrepute over the alleged use of racist and/or discriminatory language. Matthew Hoggard, Tim Bresnan, Andrew Gale, John Blain and Rich Pyrah had charges proved against them, while Gary Ballance pled guilty in advance.

Following the publication of the verdicts, Vaughan released a statement saying the dismissal of his case “takes nothing away from Azeem’s own lived experience”. He went on to state he would be willing “to help bring about positive change in any way”.

On Saturday last, the Telegraph, where Vaughan is a columnist, reported he would be open to meeting Rafiq again. The pair had originally done so 18 months ago, before charges were brought by the ECB. On Monday, Rafiq said he was willing to do the same

“The one thing I’ve always tried to do is try to get in a room and have conversations because we’re only going to get things better if humans start to have conversations with each other and get each other’s perspective,” Rafiq told the Press Association. “And from that point of view, I would always be open to that.

Rafiq also referenced the Independent Committee for Equity in Cricket report, which is expected to be published soon.

“I feel the game has an opportunity through the CDC findings. but also through the ICEC report. The game’s got a very simple choice. It’s either going to confront its failings and really make a commitment and drive forwards together or it’s going to live in the level of denial that it has continued to for a long period of time and we’re going to end up with another Azeem Rafiq in 20 years’ time or probably not even that long.”

“I’m not in any position to be making those decisions. [But] If there’s a willingness [to meet] - absolutely.”

Rafiq also revealed he has been subject to an increase in abuse since the CDC’s findings were released. “The level of abuse since Friday has felt like the two-and-a-half years of it all put together in three days,” he said. “I’ve repeatedly been called the P-word, I’ve had a few tweets where I’ve been called ‘Rafa the K*****’.” Both terms featured prominently in the hearings.

“I reported one to Twitter and I got an email this morning saying it doesn’t violate the rules. We’re having the same conversations again and again and it’s just really sad.”

Rafiq plans to step back and take stock after a harrowing few years since he went public with his experiences in 2020. He said he hoped his example will not discourage other whistle-blowers from coming forward in the future.

“It’s been tough. The inside of me is broken to the absolute core. The level of trust that’s been broken inside me - I don’t know whether that will ever heal.

“The next bit of what I do is going to decide whether people will come forward and that’s why I’m very determined to make sure that what happens to me moving forward is positive. In terms of the abuse and the attacks, quite clearly it’s been a message to everyone else, ‘don’t come forward’.

“But my message to everyone else will be: ‘Stand up for what you believe in. Don’t be a bystander. Stand up for what you believe in and you’ll have way more support than I did’.”(Cricinfo)

RESULTS Rising Stars Under-15 Championship – 1st round

it bounced onto the boundary boards, but by that point he was on the ground clutching his right knee.

Despite receiving treatment for some time, he played no further part in the

JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Results of matches played in the opening round of the West Indies Riding Stars Under-15

Ali Khan celebrates after magnificent figures of seven for 32

Dasun Shanaka was impressive during the T20I series in India this January • (BCCI)

GCB’s

Fifties from Shultz and Madramootoo help Demerara beat Essequibo

Alzarri, Romario and proper leadership

Windies Batter Kayaica Shultz bats during her 52 for Demerara

By Sean Devers

Shultz spearheaded Demerara to 135-run victory over Essequibo as the GCB Senior Women’ 50-over Inter-County tournament bowled off yesterday at the Everest ground. Asked to bat when game eventually commenced at 11:00hrs due to early morning showers, Demerara, on the back of a 130-run second wicket

Tilleya Madramootoo goes over the top in her top score of 65 Essequibo’s Kumarie Persaud bagged 4-24 . (Sean Devers Photos)

partnership between Madramootoo, who hit seven boundaries in his 65 from 95 balls and Shultz, who reached the ropes five time in her 75-ball 52.

Extras contributed a whopping 74, including 53 wides while Queens College Student Naomi Barkoye hit four fours in 27 on her 18th birthday as Demerara reached 228-5.

National senior player Kumarie Persaud finished with

4-24 from nine overs for Essequibo who were bowled out for 93 in 22.4 overs.

National U-19 player Analesia D’Aguiar, who was run out for 16, Rhona Jones (14) and Lauraine Williams (10) were the only batters to reach double figures as 40 Extras, including 29 wides, contributed the most runs to Essequibo’s total.

Shultz (3-5), Nyia Latchman ( 2-14), Latisha Jordon (2-13) and player of the match

Madramootoo (1-10) were the architects of destruction for Demerara

Earlier, Anita Hendricks and Barkoye put together 33 in a measured start before Persuad broke the stand when Hendricks (3) played across the line and was adjudged lbw.

Barkoye, strong on the onside, pulled high full tosses twice off National U-19 Seamer Analesia D’Aguiar, for boundar-

Alzarri Joseph Romario Shepherd

By Bryan Davis

He remarked that he felt comfortable when the skipper handed him the ball, as he had built in him the necessary confidence by telling him that it was up to him to win the match and he, the captain, had the faith in him to do the trick.

That quip alone inspired Alzarri to give his bowling that extra effort to beat the South Africans. I believe that, without actually knowing it, skipper Powell made the right comment, psychologically, to excite the positive

CORPORATE support continues to flow in from a number of entities as time draws near for the ultimate fitness showdown in Guyana, come next weekend, the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championships.

Gold Body by Cosmetics BW, a company that is committed to bring-

ing the best beauty industry trends to Guyana, and to its customers, have made a contribution towards the hosting of this year’s event which will showcase athletes from six nations, including the host.

Ms. Camille Da Cunha, Execu-

tive Director of Gold Body by Cosmetics BW, made the presentation to Kares CrossFit Organising Committee member, Ms. Mary Fung-A-Fat. (MS) Da Cunha said that the company was very happy to be on board with the organisers for the first time and they are looking forward to the expe-

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rience of being a part of an event of this nature.

“We at Gold Body by Cosmetics BW are committed to excellence and there is no hesitation in being on board with the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship. We are aware that only the best athletes from each of the competing nations will be on show and we are looking forward to some exciting duals over the two days of rivalry.”

Also on board for the first time is Travellers Sound which will lend a professional sound to proceedings at the National Park.

Owner of Travellers Sound, Mr. Leonard Shim, shared that his company was more than elated to be partnering with the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship crew to ensure that a quality sound is enjoyed by the patrons and athletes, as well as by Host Tameka Marshall and her Assistant, Coel Marks.

Batting meltdown

THE Guyana Under-15 team did not get their campaign off to the intended start at the Regional 50-Over Under -15Championship as they went down by seven wickets to Trinidad and Tobago at the Coolidge Cricket ground on Tuesday.

Guyana were bundled out for 75 within 33 overs and it could have been worse had extras not mounted to 24 Sohail Mohamed (12) and Navin Boodwah (11) were the only batters to reach double figures as Yair Deen and Darruis Batoosingh combined to take six wickets in a misery spell

In reply, Trinidad coasted to 76-3 in 15.2 overs led by Christian Lall with an unbeaten 32 (5x4s) from 27 balls and Zane Maraj 14*.

Pacer Emmanuel Lewis took 2-34 from five overs Guyana’s next match is against Jamaica tomorrow, April 6 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

IN a game reduced to 45 overs, fifties from Tilleya Madramootoo and Skipper Kaysia

Ms. Camille Da Cunha, Executive Director of Gold Body, shakes hands with Kares CrossFit Caribbean Committee member, Ms. Mary Fung-A-Fat after sealing the deal.

Jamie McDonald (left) of the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Organising Committee and Mr. Leonard Shim, exchange pleasantries after signing off on the sponsorship.

…Gold Body by Cosmetics BW and Travellers Sound chip in

More Corporate support for Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship