Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 20-02-2024

TUESDAY 20th February, 2024

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‘Bring the synergy to the table’ VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107360

–– President Ali says as Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo kicks off

–– underscores importance of transportation, logistics in regional integration 03 PAGE

Officials cut the ceremonial ribbon to open the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the Marriott Hotel, on Monday (Delano Williams photo)

‘Every nation has ‘This is the right to explore, secure its energy time to invest resources’ 03 in Guyana’ 05 PAGE

–– Qatar Prime Minister says, outlines importance of investing today to meet the needs of tomorrow

PAGE

–– Former President of Colombia, Duque, says; highlights Guyana’s environmental boom

Brazil’s President The Bahamas PM: ‘We support Guyana to visit Guyana in its quest to fuel 02 industrialisation’ 09 next week –– PM Rowley notes region will not –– to discuss PAGE

PAGE

ignore opportunities from energy sector ‘hydro-power’ link –– Fmr. US Secretary of State Pompeo says; highlights PAGE country’s potential, calls for international investments 04

Guyana’s energy sector to boost national security, prosperity

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Brazil’s President to visit Guyana next week

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

— to discuss ‘hydro-power’ link

BRAZILIAN President, Lula da Silva, is expected to visit Guyana next week to meet with President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his team for discussions on a potential ‘hydro-power link” between the two neighbouring countries.

President Ali made this announcement while delivering the feature address at the opening of the Guyana energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the Marriot Hotel, on Monday.

He was at the time discussing the much-anticipated Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP) and the 165 megawatts of power it is expected to produce.

“With Brazil President Lula coming next week, we're discussing even the

President Dr Irfaan Ali and Brazilian President Lula da Silva

integration of more hydro in Brazil and creating a transmission link for power to be distributed into northern Brazil,” President Ali said.

The AFHP programme was shelved following the APNU+AFC taking office in 2015; however, the PPP/C administration since entering office in 2020 has sought to breathe new life into the project as the party strives to achieve energy security through an energy mix.

Several companies, including Brazilian, Austrian, and North Korean investors, have expressed interest in bidding to construct the project.

Brazil and Guyana have been expanding their

energy cooperation, with several significant developments.

In 2022, Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro during an official visit to Guyana agreed to broaden their energy cooperation.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e Heads of State of Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname have taken steps towards forging an infrastructure that would better share the neighbouring South American countries' energy and natural resources, including discussing projects such as new roads, bridges, and energy projects that could reshape the region's economy.

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‘Bring the synergy to the table’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

— President Ali says as Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo kicks off — underscores importance of transportation, logistics in regional integration

By Trina Williams AS Guyana’s transformation continues to unfold, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has said that there needs to be the building out of infrastructure to bolster development to not only benefit Guyana but the Caribbean region overall.

The president made the call for greater collaboration in key areas during his remarks at the opening of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the Marriott Hotel, on Monday.

Held under the theme, “Fueling Transformation and Modernisation,” the atmosphere for the opening day of the conference and expo was filled with much anticipation, as local and international stakeholders were beaming with excitement as to what this year holds.

As President Ali took the stage to give his presentation, all eyes were glued on the Guyanese Head-of-State who has been consistently leading the charge for the transformation of Guyana’s economy to bring economic prosperity to every square inch of the nation.

According to the president, the reason that “supply chain” was added to the oil and gas conference was because investments in logistics and transportation is crucial to fostering development and, therefore, it needed to be recognised.

While explaining how Guyana’s energy potential could only be translated into value, Dr Ali stressed that the Caribbean

As Guyana’s transformation continues to unfold, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has said that there needs to be the building out of infrastructure to bolster development to not only benefit Guyana but the Caribbean region overall (Delano Williams photos)

region needs to define the market. He stressed that the crafting of infrastructure is essential to boosting integration.

“And if we can define our market space within the region itself, then it points to very low hanging fruits. But we have to build the infrastructure to facilitate this, to facilitate the movement, facilitate the trade and facilitate the integration,” Dr Ali said, adding that this is what the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is placing focus on along with opening up avenues to support energy development.

Dr Ali discussed the nation’s gas strategy, with emphasis on value to be gained by investing in upstream opportunities.

“That is what we have to do; bring the synergy to the table,” the president told the large gathering as he supported Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley’s call to explore more opportunities that will bring development to the region.

He further added: “You're talking about a market of more than 10 million people. CARICOM, together, we have a size of a market. Individually, we do not have a size of the market.”

Giving an example of how massive opportunities are being unlocked in the Caribbean, the president said that Guyana has partnered with its CARICOM counterparts, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago to establish a ferry service that will transport

cargo and passengers.

Last year, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) announced that it will finance consultancy services for a study to explore options for establishing a Maritime Cargo Service among Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago primarily for the movement of agricultural products.

The initiative, according to the CDB, is a part of the institution’s pledge to improve food security within the Caribbean, and to promote regional co-operation.

According to Dr Ali: “That investment in the regional transport infrastructure is not only key and critical, but it is profitable...And it [will] help us to

achieve the goals of integration, greater levels of trade between ourselves and food security.”

RELIABLE ENERGY As the government continues to strive to produce reliable and efficient energy at a low cost, President Ali used the opportunity to explain how the Gas-to-Energy project will make this a reality.

The project, which involves laying a 200 km, 12-inch diameter pipeline, will channel natural gas from the Liza Phase One and Phase Two Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels to a state-of-the-art power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility in Wales.

“Now, why is this important? Our future depends on reli-

able, efficient energy. Currently, we do not have this. We do not have reliable, efficient energy,” he said, noting that at this time, Guyana does not have the quantum of energy to drive industrialisation and manufacturing, which is ideal for the nation’s development.

Dr Ali then went on to say: “…More importantly, it gives us the opportunity to be competitive, because at the end of this project, the cost of energy will be reduced by 50 per cent and that then puts us in the game for manufacturing, agro-processing and industry development.”

Since Guyana’s oil and gas industry emerged over the past few years, there has been a notable increase in the frequency of conferences and seminars being held in the country—a change which has been a catalyst for an increased influx of potential investors.

The energy conference and expo, which will be running for the third consecutive year, features some 200 exhibitors and hundreds of participants from 21 countries, including foreign Heads of State.

While this conference is not the first of its kind in the country, the magnitude of these events has been increasing over the years.

These numbers are not just reflective of an influx in travellers to the country, with economic benefits for tourism; they speak to a marked increase in investor interest in the nation.

‘Every nation has right to explore, secure its energy resources’ — Qatar Prime Minister says, outlines importance of investing today to meet the needs of tomorrow

By Shamar Meusa PRIME Minister of Qatar, Sheik Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on Monday said that the explorations and investments of today will provide for future energy needs.

The Prime Minister made those remarks during his virtual address during the opening ceremony of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, which is being held at the

Prime Minister of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani

Guyana Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown.

During this address, he said that the world will require a robust mix of all available energy resources to provide for the needs of growing populations, and the explorations and investments of today will provide for the future energy needs of tomorrow.

Further, the Qatari Prime Minister said that the success story of Qatar in the energy sector has confirmed what they have always believed.

“Every nation has the right to explore and secure its energy resources; energy security is the backbone of economic prosperity and development,” he said.

According to the Prime Minister, these two are interdependent, and cannot be separated in any context, even as he added that they believe that with proper planning, tools and partnerships, every nation could fulfil its energy security.

Al Thani indicated that Qatar Energy is working with partners

in every region to responsibly develop their natural resources, enabling nations to expand their economies and reduce energy poverty in countries around the globe.

“This natural resource exploration not only helps provide energy security and equity for future generations, but also develops the host country’s infrastructure and growth for the future,” he added.

The Prime Minister went on to note that the opportunities cre-

ated through these partnerships, which include jobs in science and technology, ensure homegrown technical expertise which could be leveraged across multiple sectors.

He said that they will continue to work with countries in this region, and deepen bilateral friendships shared between the nations to further enrich ties and fulfilling the aspirations of the people for a world that is secure and energy-sufficient.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Guyana’s energy sector to boost national security, prosperity — Fmr. US Secretary of State Pompeo says; highlights country’s potential, calls for international investments

By Clestine Juan

WITH Guyana poised to become a key player in the energy sector, former U.S Secretary of State Mike Pompeo highlighted the significance of its oil and gas resources in securing both its own stability and promoting stability at regional and global levels.

Making a virtual appearance on the first day of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, hosted at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, the esteemed former US statesman emphasised the crucial significance of energy in enhancing both national security and economic well-being. His remarks specifically highlighted Guyana's growing prominence in the global energy arena.

Pompeo first articulated the intrinsic link between energy production and national security, highlighting that “energy is not merely an economic issue.”

Drawing from his extensive diplomatic experience,

Former United States (US) Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo

he highlighted the omnipresence of energy discussions in meetings with global leaders, underscoring its importance to worldwide peace and stability.

Pompeo stressed the global repercussions of energy scarcity, citing higher inflation, stunted growth, and increased suffering.

He condemned the manipulation of energy supplies by countries like Russia and Iran for geopolitical gain and cautioned against similar tactics from Venezuela’s leadership.

Reflecting on his tenure, Pompeo shared how American policies prioritised energy independence, ensuring national security and prosperity without reliance on foreign entities.

He positioned this strategy as a blueprint for Guyana, emphasising the country’s potential to become a major energy producer.

“Guyana’s energy, your natural resources, your innovation in the energy space, all of that together will deliver security to Guyanese people,” Pompeo declared, highlighting the significance of Guyana’s energy sector not only for national growth but also for its contributions to regional and global stability.

Pompeo transitioned his focus to Guyana, a country he described as standing on the brink of an energy revolution.

He explained that Guyana’s natural resources and innovative energy sector could not only secure its own future, but also contribute significantly to regional and global stability.

“The capacity of nations like America and Guyana to produce affordable energy

and export it around the world is the basis for how so many governments hope to deliver and maintain basic prosperity for their people,” Pompeo stated, highlighting the mutual benefits of energy prosperity.

The former Secretary of State of the United States boldly confronted the challenges posed by authoritarian regimes employing energy as a means of manipulation.

He cautioned against the potential for similar tactics by Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro, reinforcing the importance of energy independence to thwart such geopolitical manoeuvres.

Pompeo’s narrative took a positive turn as he celebrated Guyana’s potential, a nation “full of wonderful people” and “unrivalled natural resources.”

He lauded the leadership of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, commending the country’s commitment to building infrastructure and improving citizens’ lives.

Pompeo’s call to action was clear: Guyana and its business leaders were encouraged to embrace innovation, contribute positively to the global market, and follow a path similar to the U.S. model

for economic development and energy production.

He urged international business leaders to consider investing in Guyana, promoting a development approach based on innovation and market-driven strategies, akin to the U.S. model. “l want to encourage you all there today, business leaders to invest in Guyana. I hope you’ll follow the same blueprint that has worked in the United States, which is to innovate, not to subjugate, to contribute, not to coerce, and to allow markets to point the way forward. “ If we all collectively get these things right, I am competent, excited for the future and what lies ahead,” he said.

Guyana’s energy sector is expected to boost national security and prosperity with its oil and gas industry having experienced exponential growth, with production numbers rising from 101.4 million barrels in 2022 to 142.9 million barrels of oil in 2023, contributing to an estimated 40.2% surge in export volume.

The future launch of additional projects, including Uaru and Whiptail, is expected to

enhance the country's production figures, leading to a rise in revenue earnings.

Guyana is expected to witness a significant 34.3% increase in its real GDP in 2024, primarily due to the growth in oil production from the Prosperity FPSO. The Gas to Shore Project is anticipated to lead to a roughly 50% reduction in electricity costs for consumers.

The government plans to improve and expand the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) generation capacity to end the incessant power outages in the country.

The revenue generated from oil exports has enabled the government to invest in critical sectors such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and agriculture.

By 2030, Guyana is expected to witness remarkable economic transformation with its thriving oil and gas industry, with projected revenues from oil of up to US$10 billion annually.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

‘This is the time to invest in Guyana’

— Former President of Colombia Duque says; highlights Guyana’s environmental boom

By Trina Williams WITH all attention focused on Guyana, the emerging powerhouse in South America, former President of Colombia Iván Duque asserts that the opportune moment to invest in the country has arrived.

As Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo made its third debut on Monday at the Marriott Hotel, under the theme ‘Fueling Transformation and Modernisation’, Duque’s presentation brought the nation’s lush biodiversity into focus.

He said: “This is time to invest in Guyana, not only in the boom of oil and gas, which is very important, but the environmental boom of zero deforestation, biodiversity credits, energy transition, to sustainable housing,

Former President of Colombia Iván Duque

working with indigenous communities, etc.”

With Guyana having over 87 per cent of forest coverage, the former President of Colombia had no trouble grabbing the attention of

international and local stakeholders.

“So, what I expect to share with you today is why there is a case for Guyana when it comes to...a nature positive driven growth or development agenda,” Duque said as he analysed why Guyana’s zero deforestation is an important element to pitch to investors. Because the positivity of nature is not usually focused on.

Based on his perspective, it is an essential aspect to take into consideration for the purpose of achieving an investment that is both environmentally sound and effective.

“And that takes me to the opportunities that we have in Guyana. The first one is that that concept of zero deforestation is going to be able to open the door to connect

long-term investments with the development of a voluntary carbon-credit market,” Duque said while highlighting that Guyana is one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet.

Furthermore, he stated that a country like Guyana, which has already stated and achieved almost zero deforestation along with a voluntary carbon-credit market, is also going to be a “promised land for the next chapter of green financing globally”.

While further delving into Guyana's environmental growth, he shifted his focus towards the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and its pivotal role in the energy transition.

“The promise of having the oil-and-gas boom in Guyana is connected to a development need,” Duque

said, adding that the LCDS will usher in cleaner energy that will be at a cheaper cost.

He then went on to say: “...So, the energy transition is a strategic part of the Guyanese development agenda, and the condition for these energies are working very well in the regulation that has been adopted.”

The former Colombian President, while urging investors to not let the opportunity fly by, remarked: “Just to put this in investment terms, $1 invested in Guyana is a greener dollar than $1 invested in other parts of the hemisphere when you look at all these complimentary opportunities and ideas that are part of the Low-Carbon Development Strategy.”

For context, on June 8, 2009, the then President of Guyana and the current Vice-

GCCI condemns PNC politician’s encouragement of election rigging

THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has vehemently condemned recent remarks made by a veteran political figure encouraging the use of electoral fraud as a tool towards gaining political power and supporting a racial agenda.

The figure the chamber referred to was Hamilton Green, who made the comment during his recent presentation at the Burnham symposium.

Such statements are not only reckless but also deeply concerning in light of Guyana’s painful history of

rigged elections that have resulted in racial violence and the destabilisation of our nation.

“Any attempts to undermine the integrity of the electoral process poses a serious threat to our democracy and the well-being of our society as a whole.

Democracy and respect for the rule of law are fundamental pillars of our society, and any subversion of these principles must be unequivocally condemned,” the GCCI said.

The chamber further said: “It is disheartening and appalling to see the resurrection of this archaic thinking

which has been responsible for discord, disharmony, and disunity in the past in Guyana.”

A stable and fair electoral process, and democratic environment are essential conditions for businesses to thrive and engage in commerce without fear of instability or unfair practices, the

GCCI said.

The chamber firmly believes that a stable democratic environment is essential for fostering economic growth and delivering a high standard of living for all of the nation's people.

“We urge all individuals, especially those in positions of influence, to

refrain from making statements that threaten the integrity of our electoral system and the stability of our nation,” the chamber said.

President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo launched the LCDS. This national strategy aims to develop “a low-deforestation, low-carbon, climate-resilient economy”.

The primary objective of that strategy is to facilitate the transformation of Guyana's economy by simultaneously addressing climate change. This will be achieved through the implementation of incentives aimed at preserving forests, which currently contribute to approximately one-fifth of global emissions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Development For All

THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been implementing strategies and policies that promote and support the development of every Guyanese, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, creed, political persuasion, or any other personal features or preferences. This is done with inclusion as its guiding principle.

As has been shown throughout the previous three years, the Dr. Irfaan Ali-led administration’s goal has been to fulfill both the short-term and long-term requirements of each person by creating an inclusive sys-

tem and agenda, all under the aegis of “One-Guyana”.

In contrast to the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration’s unsuccessful attempt to promote social cohesion in the local society, the PPP/C’s efforts have gone beyond rhetoric, as evidenced by its investment in programmes like the education cash grant, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme, and the creation of part-time jobs, among many other things that target the entire Guyanese populace and not just one segment of society.

In fact, according to President Ali, the main objectives of the “One-Guyana” initiative are to increase social equality, guarantee that everyone has the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives, and reduce inequalities in access to the legal system, employment opportunities, healthcare, and educational opportunities.

“One-Guyana vision, in this regard, aims to ensure that every citizen is accorded a dignified existence, and with due respect for their rights, and with equality before the law,” the Head of State had said.

The development that is taking place in front of us,

and the government’s intentions are obviously very different from the portrayal and the lies that some social groups are spreading in an effort to polarise the Guyanese society and destabilise the nation.

There are, however, many others who have acknowledged that the government is working within the confines of a democratically-elected administration.

In so doing, the government has, so far, restored the education cash grant and increased it to $45,000; increased old-age pension; disbursed billions of dollars in the form of various grants to cushion the economic

conditions influenced, and removed VAT on water, electricity and data, among other things.

The government has gone above and beyond to perform outreaches in various communities, and meet Guyanese directly in order to determine what problems exist, and how they could be properly addressed, in the event that the existing programmes do not directly address the needs of citizens.

To date, the government has travelled to every region and held multiple discussions with residents in areas like Buxton and Linden, which are well-known APNU+AFC strongholds.

President Ali has frequently stated that his administration takes a stakeholder-engagement approach to decision-making; this would help the One-Guyana vision come to fruition.

“Together, we are going to embark on the journey of prosperity with all of you; the achievement of peace and prosperity; this is a golden opportunity to attain that objective. We will succeed and make proud all those whose struggles were important in achieving our independence,” Dr. Ali has said.

Lands and Surveys ‘clears air’ on ownership of lands along Carifesta Avenue

THE following is the full text of a statement prepared by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission in view of recent concerns as to the ownership of Lands along Carifesta Avenue: “Records in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission indicate that Lots 1 and 2 of Plantation Thomas were held under Transport number 30 of 1863 by the Colony of British Guiana.

Colony Lands are lands held before independence by the Colony of British Guiana. These have since been referred to as Government Lands after 1966.

The GLSC issued leases on Colony Lands (CLL category) and continues to issue leases on Government Lands now GLL category.

The unique feature is that these lands are held under Transports as against State Lands, which are not.

“Lot 2 was transferred to one Quintin Hogg vide Transport in 1886. A portion of land consisting of

15 acres called Non Pareil Park along with two other portions called A and B consisting of 18 and 10 areas respectively were later transferred by Quintin Hogg to the Mayor and Town Council of Georgetown vide Transport Number 337 of 1887. The area basically covered under this Transport extended from Camp Street to Vlissingen Road in an East west Direction and the area immediately south of Queen’s College’s southern boundary, to Cummings Canal in a North South Direction. This block of land was save and except Lot C previously held by J.V. Caetano and which was acquired for the construction of Irving Street, the residual being fenced into the Guyana Public Service premises now.

“The area retained by government covered the entire area to the North of the grounds on the Northern side of Woolford Avenue from Camp Street to Vlissingen Road, up to the

Sea wall (basically from Queens College to the sea wall).

“Over the years, various surveys were done over all of the Lands for different purposes by both the Town Council and the government, for instance the land on which the Government Technical Institute was built was acquired by government from the City Council by Order number 27 of 1951 (plan 5678).

“The Indian Education Trust College of British Guiana obtained Lease 347 of 1960 from the City Council for 99 years for the area East of GTI. The Tennis Court is the property of the Council. Central High School was surveyed by the Council in 1959 (plan 8921). At no time did the council survey north of Central and Queens College. They basically knew their boundaries back then.

“Plan 11057 shows the play grounds North of Woolford Avenue surveyed by the Council in 1964; the

Council should be aware if they gave any leases.

“The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission Stock Plan number 12850 highlights all Government Lands in the City and from the extract it can be seen where the red lines are.

These are all government properties, except where they were sold. This plan also lists the various agencies and or organisations that once occupied or still occupies some of these lands.

“The government has been issuing leases for many years over the lands held under Transport for the lands government had retained, among several leases the two play grounds on Carifesta Avenue where the new hotel project is to be developed. Permission number C. 434 was issued to the Teacher’s Training Centre in 1947 by the Department of Lands and Mines.

“Permission number C. 433 was issued to “Youth

Council” in 1947 for the area east of the Teachers Training Centre.

“Other portions of lands were leased to Saint Stanislaus College, B.G Boy Scout (now Ministry of Education), East Indian Cricket Club (Everest), Catholic Guild Club (now Marian Academy). Malteenoes Sports Club (expired, now being processed again).

Cosmos Sports Club (now being processed for the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club). Some areas were also given to the Guyana Telecommunication Corporation by vesting orders under the Public Corporations Act; these are now part of GT&T properties.

“The only portion of land that the City Council held in the area North of Carifesta Avenue was a dam between GT&T and Saints Stanislaus ground (called Wireless Road). This was leased to a private citizen for commercial purposes by the Council.

“The above basically seeks to bring some perspective into the ownership of the lands in the area and from the account given it can be garnered that the City Council does not clearly know what they own. The GLSC has a substantial amount of historical records that shows its control of those lands for well over 100 years. At no time during this period has there been any interference by the Council as to the ownership of the said lands.

“A quick check of the amount of land held by the City Council will amount to approximately 43 English Acres which more or less correspond to the area previously described as being held by the Town council.

“Accompanying this report is a number of survey plans, leases etc. that can be very useful in terms of understanding the ownership and boundaries of the said lands.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Caribbean Energy Chamber to serve as hub for uniting regional bodies

IN a significant effort to bolster energy security and cooperation in the Caribbean Region, the Caribbean Energy Chamber (CEC) was launched, on Monday.

Keeping the ball rolling with the array of stellar presentations at Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, on Monday, the founding Chair of CEC, Melanie Chen, said that the pan-Caribbean Chamber will be addressing pressing energy challenges within the Region.

She said: “CEC will serve as a hub for uniting all energy stakeholders in the Caribbean, including those from both public and private sectors... We will be

Chair of CEC, Melanie Chen

hosting workshops, round tables, and breakout sessions at conferences aimed at enabling actions to help the implementation of energy

transition and security in the Caribbean.”

Chen said that the CEC’s headquarters will be located in Saint Lucia.

According to Chen, with the formation of CEC as a regional, self-sustaining cooperative mechanism, it is her hope that it will aid in advancing energy security and prepare the region to “stand up to the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

The CEC founding Chair then went on to extend her gratitude to the Government of Guyana and St Lucia.

She said: “We would especially like to thank the Government of St. Lucia for their support... We'd also like to thank the Government of Guyana for giving us the op-

portunity to do the inaugural launch of CEC here today in Georgetown.”

While giving more details on the organisation, Chen said that she is in the process of locating Guyanese to represent the country and its needs on the Board.

T h e o rg a n i s a t i o n i s governed by a 23-member Founding board for the first three years, according to her.

While expounding on the challenges that the region faces, such as climate change, she said: “Climate change does not have boundaries...It will take global teamwork to

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help mitigate its effects.”

Chen then went on to underscore the importance of cooperation to tackle these issues, noting: “We share cooperation as a capital that brings attention to Caribbean energy security in a more consistent manner, through policies that achieve sustainable impact for the common person...Cooperation to see tangible solutions to the challenges of the energy transition, facing the Caribbean as an opportunity to work with all potential partners or the region's future.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

AFC will get a rude awakening from the PNC in 2025

THERE is a possibility that the PPP could win a two/thirds majority in the 2025 elections because the nature of the opposition in general, in Guyana, is so chaotic, shambolic and hypocritical that their deportment simply turns people off.

Their style, pronouncements, demagoguery and hypocrisy are so grating

to the nerves that you are forced to ask yourself – are these the people that want my vote?

We will look at the PNC’s recent rally at Parade Ground and some positions of ANUG in forthcoming columns but for now let’s focus on the expanding caricature that the AFC became in 2016.

You always wonder in life

22-year-old man dies in accident at Enterprise POLICE are investigating a fatal incident which occurred around 20:50 hrs at the access road at Enterprise, East Coast Demerara, on Sunday.

According to a press release, the accident involved motor car PRR 6860 driven by Timothy Kublall, a 22-year-old of Lot 102 Enterprise Squatting Area.

Enquiries disclosed that the car was proceeding west, allegedly at a fast rate, when the driver lost control and ended up in a nearby trench on the southern side of the road.

As a result, the vehicle was submerged underwater with the driver in the vehicle.

The driver was taken

Dead: Timothy Kublall

out by public-spirited citizens and carried to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

how humans can openly degrade themselves and why they do it. The AFC, in December 2022, pulled out of its coalition with the PNC. What that meant was a separation of legality from politics. The AFC informed the nation that legally there cannot be an AFC party in Parliament.

The legal name of the party that contested the election and won seats was APNU+AFC. So the exit from the APNU’s house could not have led to an AFC parliamentary party. For the purpose of parliament then the AFC has to remain under the umbrella –APNU+AFC. Politically, the AFC became distinct from the PNC. In politics then there was no longer an entity named APNU+AFC. Then the bizarre happened - legality and politics were in fact not separated. There is still a political organisation named APNU+AFC. That entity held a rally about

two weeks ago at Parade Ground. So is there a separate AFC? How does one explain this confusion? Let’s quote the AFC’s leader, Khemraj Ramjattan in an interview with the Chronicle as carried by that paper on June 4 last year: “In June (2022), we made a decision, it was not a talk, it was a decision at the National Conference in accordance with the Accord that on December 31 we are going to withdraw out of the Accord and independently do things, just like prior to the Accord being signed and we were two independent parties,” What happened from June 2022 to make AFC change its mind and continue in joint political activities with the PNC? There is only one explanation the analyst can offer.

There are no other reasons but one fundamental motive for the AFC still being in partnership with the PNC. There is absolutely no space in Guyana’s poli-

tics for the AFC. The AFC became dead meat long before June 2022.

We will never know the reason why in June the AFC thought it could go it alone. But it did so and made the announcement to leave. In 2023, reality hit the AFC. With increasing popularity of President Ali and the small party ANUG still around, and maybe other third parties of 2020 will resuscitate themselves, the AFC decided that Guyana no longer has space for it and it will remain with the PNC thus its presence at the Parade Ground rally.

Having decided to stick with the PNC, the AFC will enter the 2025 poll as APNU+AFC. Here is where things are going to become nightmarish for the AFC. Each big wig in the AFC, particularly Cathy Hughes, Khemraj Ramjattan, Juretha Fernandez and Sherod Duncan are looking to go into Parliament in 2025 (David Patterson says he is leaving

politics after the life of the current parliament ends).

But there is only place for one of them and that person will be Khemraj Ramjattan for reason of ethnic exigency.

The PNC is only going to give the AFC one seat. If the WPA was more important and had bigger names and it only got one seat in 2015, and none in 2020, why the AFC ego-trippers think they will get more than one? They will not get more than one because the entire PNC leadership is agreed on that.

The PNC will not get the 31 seats it got in 2020.

If it loses five seats, there is going to be intense competition among PNC stalwarts for parliamentary places with little consideration being given to the feelings of the AFC. Because of the ethnic reality, Duncan and Hughes will lose out. Ramjattan will get a seat because he is the AFC leader and the Indian factor will come into play.

The possibility does exist for Juretha Fernandes to get a seat for reason of gender and ethnicity. But the PNC does not suffer from a lack of women leaders among its own ranks and Fernandes does not have a constituency in Bartica where she is from. The AFC became dead meat in 2016. It is long dead and gone.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

‘We Support Guyana in its quest to fuel industrialisation’ — Bahamas PM says — Rowley notes region will not ignore opportunities from energy sector

By Shamar Meusa WITH recognition of Guyana's advancements in the global energy sector, Prime Minister Phillip Davis of The Bahamas affirmed the region's endorsement of Guyana's pursuit to fuel industrialisation through energy production.

He delivered these statements during his virtual address at the inaugural ceremony of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, currently taking place at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.

Davis observed that Guyana's GDP has experienced substantial growth in recent years due to the discovery of offshore oil and gas reserves.

However, these findings, he stated, have not been exempt from encountering a number of challenges.

He pointed out that one of the issues is the reluctance of the global north to permit new participants in the global oil market, despite their historical and ongoing benefits from oil and other fossil fuels.

He added, however, “We support Guyana in its quest to boldly fuel its industrialisation on its own terms according to the resources that the people of Guyana have been blessed with. Providing a long-term plan for energy

embracing beneficial opportunities.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the region upholds the idea of sustained development by virtue of its oil resources.

Rowley said, “In order to ensure energy security for the region and combat the negative impacts of climate change, it is imperative that

Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago

production also includes a meaningful effort to be responsible stewards of the environment.”

The Prime Minister of The Bahamas asserted that Guyana is charting its own course in the energy sector, while other small Caribbean states are also adopting distinctive measures to ensure energy stability.

In his statement, he emphasised the region's progress and the accompanying responsibility. He urged leaders to carefully consider their obligations amidst these increasing challenges.

“We must think hard about how we preserve our economies, create opportunities for our people and power our nations to success; we must consider the roles that

Prime Minister Phillip Davis of The Bahamas

emerging technologies in renewable and sustainable energy can play in providing stable and affordable power for our people especially against the backdrop of climate change,” Davis said.

This objective, he added, is possible to achieve while also respecting the fact that each CARICOM (Caribbean Community) nation has its own unique energy reality that necessitates different approaches.

During his address, Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago highlighted the importance of the Caribbean energy economies, namely Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, as influential players in the market who are committed to responsible actions and

Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago resources create opportunities to enhance regional energy security — CARICOM Secretary-General says

By Shamar Meusa TO ensure that the Caribbean Region remains on its developmental trajectory, it is imperative that there is urgent action to achieve energy security and climate resilience.

This was according to Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community Dr Carla Barnett during her address at the opening ceremony of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, on Monday.

According to Dr Barnett, energy plays a critical role in development, and enhancing and fostering economic stability. How-

Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community, Dr Carla Barnett

ever, she added that the region faces significant challenges in relation to energy security.

Some of these challenges, she said, include fragile

electricity grids, the heavy reliance on imported oil and its rising costs, which have been exacerbated by increasing geopolitical challenges.

“Despite these challenges or perhaps because of these challenges, CARICOM member states have made strides in pursuing sustainable-energy solutions as a matter of policy,” Barnett said.

Against this backdrop, she said that progress has been made in key sectors such as power generation, transport and infrastructure.

Dr Barnett noted that it Continued on page 10

we effectively utilise our resources whether they be hydrocarbon or renewables through collaborative efforts.”

Additionally, he indicated that only by working together can the region obtain its objectives of fostering productive and resilient economies in what he said promises to be hostile business environ-

ment.

“With the emergence of our region as a significant player in the hydrocarbon industry, we are presented with a valuable chance to proactively utilise our combined knowledge and expertise in order to maximise future prospects,” the Trinidadian Prime Minister said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

UG to offer innovative VR training for construction industry — training targets unemployed, school dropouts in becoming construction professionals

By Feona Morrison VICE Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin of the University of Guyana (UG) announced last Friday that the institution is preparing to offer professional development courses tailored to the construction industry.

This is a response to the projected need for approximately 9,000 personnel in the nation's growing construction industry over the next five years.

She disclosed that Virtual Reality (VR) training will be used to provide these one-month and six-month programmes in “very special-

ised areas”. She stated that a company that provides virtual reality training had given the university a “huge grant” recently.

Contemporary technology is employed in virtual reality training to simulate real-life scenarios and impart vital knowledge and skills.

Virtual reality training offers a secure, regulated, economical, and profoundly influential experience. It works well for training in fields that are costly, risky, or difficult to replicate in real life.

Professor Mohamed-Martin stated that people who have dropped out of school, have been out of school, or are unemployed, will be the

focus of virtual reality training, noting that it will be utilised to overcome educational challenges.

“So, when you tell them come to UG, their eyes glaze over and they think they are going to die. But they can do this on their phones… a programme which is actually a course that is actually looking like a game. And they can be anywhere learning this. And so, we do one month at a time, and if they can tolerate it, we go upwards…,” she explained.

The Vice Chancellor added: “Virtual reality will allow us to train outside of labs for certain types of processes.

So, if you have to learn a

UG’s Vice Chancellor Dr Paloma Mohamed-Martin

process: step one, step two, step three, step four. We can do that. But of course, we still have to put you on to the physical plant at some point because the transferal of these things to real life is a thing…”

Following the development of the programmes’s curriculum, she said that instruction will start at the university’s Tain, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) campus before moving to its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) locations around the nation.

During an event last year,

Prime Minister Mark Phillips emphasised that Guyana is experiencing unparalleled growth, resulting in a heightened demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers across various professions, such as welding, carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and excavator operation.

The construction industry has doubled in size over the last two years, said Dr. Natash Gaskin-Peters, Director of the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) while presenting the findings of the Guyana Skilled Labour Assessment Study, last Friday.

According to the study, the construction industry will need about 9,000 workers over the next five years.

Given the volume of housing and road developments, as well as other infrastructure projects being carried out by the government and the private sector, Gaskin-Peters, an economist, said that the construction industry is developing at the quickest rate in Guyana.

The education system’s inability to keep up with the construction industry’s rapid expansion, the severe scarcity of experienced tradespeople, and the growing demand for qualified engineering experts

are some of the major issues facing the industry, as the study highlighted.

According to the director of CLBD, Guyana possesses a labour force of relatively limited size, which may necessitate the importation of labor. Furthermore, the study unveiled a pressing scarcity of truck drivers within the transportation and logistics industry. Significantly, the government is actively working to meet the country's rising labor demands by engaging with both sectors of the labor market.

“That is to say, employers and potential employers including of course the private sector. But the government is also, of course, itself an employer. And on the supply side, employees and potential employees including recent graduates of schools and tertiary education systems,” Minister of Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh had explained while dealing with budget-related matters in the National Assembly earlier this month.

When it comes to training for public servants, the minister disclosed that the government has a “reasonably good idea” of what the needs are across a number of sectors.

Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago resources create opportunities to...

From page 9

is projected that by 2025, the region will have transitioned from 19 per cent electrification to 51 per cent, thus underscoring the commitment to equitable and accelerated transition that safeguards the planet for future generations.

Additionally, she said that CARICOM is actively working towards a more sustainable and resilient-energy future by accelerating the deployment of renewable-energy resources and fostering partnerships among member states.

“The increasing production of hydrocarbons in Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago presents opportunities to en-

hance energy security; it also presents opportunities for increased private and public investments in building social, economic, environmental and climate resilience as the world transitions towards clean and renewable sources of energy,” Dr Barnett said.

Further, she added that as a whole, CARICOM is committed to a development trajectory that prioritises zero emissions in full recognition that the region does not contribute in any significant way to climate change, even as it contends with the significant impact of climate change.

The Secretary-General noted that while each country has its unique challenges and priorities, regional cooperation on energy leverages the sharing and exchanging of critical in-

formation and experiences which she said are vital to success at the national level.

She said: “Urgent action is imperative to ensure energy security and climate resilience as without these the region’s development trajectory is at risk. CARICOM will, therefore, continue to enhance cooperation among member states through policy harmonisation, regulatory reforms and capacity-building initiatives.”

This transition, she highlighted, is essential to secure energy security and mitigate the impact of climate change, while fostering economic growth and development in the region.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Scenes from Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo 2024 Scenes from the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo 2024, declared open by President Dr. Irfaan Ali Monday morning at the Marriott Hotel. The conference is being held under the theme, ‘Fueling Transformation and Modernisation’. (Delano Williams Photos)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Nine new magistrates to take oath of office today

Abigail Gibbs

Michaelle Matthias

Qatar to help Guyana build stadium in Region Three

Teriq Mohammed

Flashback: President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and the State of Qatar’s Amir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held bilateral discussions on mutual areas of interest, after which their delegations participated in plenary discussions

Shivani Lalaram

Tamieka Clarke

Orinthia Schmidt

Ravindra Mohabir

Omadatt Chandan

Tuanna Hardy

THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) announced on Monday that nine new magistrates will take the oath of office this morning before Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, starting at 10:30 hrs.

The newest members of magistracy are Attorneys-at-Law Abigail Gibbs, Michelle Matthias, Teriq Mohammed, Shivani Lalaram, Tamieka Clarke, Orinthia Schmidt, Ravindra Mohabir, Omadatt Chandan, and Tuanna Hardy.

The JSC recently appointed them following a rigorous hiring procedure.

Mohammed, Clarke, Hardy and Schmidt served as State Counsel in the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (DPP) Chambers for a while before venturing into private practice.

Gibbs was previously the Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions and Mohabir previously worked as a prosecutor for the Guyana Police Force’s Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

To qualify for appointment as a magistrate, applicants had to be an Attorney-at-Law ad-

mitted to practice law in Guyana or any Commonwealth country with at least five years’ experience or be a magistrate from any other Commonwealth jurisdiction serving in that capacity for at least three years and qualified to practice in Guyana.

A magistrate is appointed and serves in that capacity until the age of 55 and is entitled to a basic salary of $880,885 per month plus allowances.

Benefits include $15,000 for utilities, $20,000 for special needs, $2,500 per day for subsistence while working outside the district, duty-free concession that is renewed after three or five years (based on the purchase of a new or reconditioned vehicle), vacation allowance of one month tax-free basic salary and round-the-clock security.

Those appointed will be required to serve a probationary period of at least six months.

On satisfactory completion of the period of probation, the appointees would be confirmed.

Magistrates appointed will serve in the 10 administrative regions, try persons charged with committing summary of-

fences, hear and determine indictable charges heard summarily, conduct preliminary inquiries or paper committals into indictable charges, hear and determine applications made under the Domestic Violence Act, Mental Health Act and other legislation, hear applications for Liquor Licences, and hear applications for Money Lender’s Licences.

Magistrates are also required to serve as coroners and conduct inquests into unnatural deaths, prepare Memoranda of Reasons for decisions in a timely manner, prepare returns and reports as required, attend conferences, workshops, and training, be accountable to the Chancellor of the Judiciary, Chief Justice, Chief Magistrate, and the JSC and perform any other related duties to support the efficient functioning of the magistracy.

The JSC is a constitutional body that deals with issues pertaining to judicial officers’ appointments, disciplinary action, removals, and promotions.

With the exception of the Chancellor and the Chief Jus-

tice, this commission is also in charge of advising the President of Guyana on the nomination of judges.

Its commissioners are Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; former Chancellor, Justice Carl Singh; Retired Appeal Court Judge BS Roy; Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George, SC and Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman, Manniram Prashad. Cummings-Edwards is the JSC’s chairperson, while George and Prashad are ex-officio members of the JSC. While participating in the 2024 budget debate, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC had informed the National Assembly that 10 magistrates would be appointed this year, bringing the total number to 29. He had said that a new post of deputy chief magistrate has been created.

The judiciary and magistracy had been requesting the appointment of more judicial officers, citing the rise in workload due to staff shortages.

THE Government of Qatar will soon construct a massive stadium in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced.

The Head of State, on Sunday, made the revelation during a brick laying ceremony for the Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre which is being constructed by private investors from Qatar.

“This relationship is as a result of our government’s commitment to diversifying the investors stream and by diversifying the capital markets through which investments are made…we have established a strong focus on the Middle East and other parts of the world that were not traditionally focused on investment in this region; we have seen tremendous [interest] and Qatar is one of the countries that has shown remarkable speed in expanding this interest,” the President said.

Guyana, he related, is expanding its bilateral ties with the country and will collaborate in areas of tourism and hospitality, service, oil and gas, food security, and other modernisation and transformational projects.

Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al, President Ali said, has been leading from the front on the expansion of the relationship between the two nations.

Last year, the Amir visited Guyana for the first time for bilateral discussions. During the visit, the two leaders held fruitful discussions on a wide range of issues of mutual interest to strengthen their bilateral relations.

The two nations signed agreements for collaboration in the legal sectors; promotion and protection of mutual investments; and economic, commercial, and technical cooperation.

Meanwhile, the Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre is set to be a world-class facility.

The new resort will feature 260 rooms and suites, 150 service apartments and premium villas and it represents a collaboration between the Governments of Guyana and Qatar.

The project is being executed by private investors, the Assets Group out of Qatar and construction is expected to begin soon with the hopes of completion within three years.

The five-star facility will also feature retail units for food and beverages, high luxury fashion brands, stateof-the-art health club and a convention centre with cutting edge facilities. It was uniquely designed with Guyanese in mind.

“When you examine the features of the investment you will see that [it] mirrors the history of Georgetown; the architectural history was carefully taken into consideration in the design of the building. The natural attributes of Guyana were taken into the design.”

“We now have the type of investment that will support the natural quality of our product and I have no doubt that we will be able to build a world-class tourism sector, a tourism sector that will see the diversification of our economy and expansion of our economy realising its full potential,” President Ali said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

‘All gas resources will be developed in a timely manner’ — to maximise economic benefits, drive advancement, President Ali says

By Trina Williams

AS Guyana continues on the journey towards achieving economic prosperity through the careful management of its energy sector, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said that “the time to develop our gas is now”.

“In addition to the current and future oil development in Guyana, the Government of Guyana has made the strategic choice of developing all of its gas resources in a timely manner to maximize the economic benefit associated with such development,” President Ali said during his remarks on the opening day of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the Marriott Hotel on Monday.

He said, too, that the government is also working on substituting fossil fuels, such as diesel, to accelerate the transition to a low carbon energy platform.

The Head of State, however, reminded stakeholders that “time is of the essence” owing to market forces and uncertainties.

“There is an immediate window of opportunity between now and the end of the decade to monetise and maximise the value of Guyana’s natural gas resources; the time to develop our gas is now!” Dr. Ali emphasised.

The President mentioned the launch of the Request For Proposals (RFPs) for the designing, financing, construction

As Guyana continues on the journey towards achieving economic prosperity through the careful management of its energy sector, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that ‘the time to develop our gas is now’

and operation of the required gas infrastructure.

This strategy is part of a pivotal roadmap for managing the nation’s significant gas resources. It also serves as a vital tool for Guyana to make informed decisions regarding the utilisation of its gas resources.

The Stabroek Block, along with the Corentyne Block, holds substantial gas resources. Ongoing exploration and appraisal activities are underway to determine the full extent of Guyana’s gas resources.

The President then went on to say: “New infrastructural solutions in Guyana to develop and monetise our natural gas will undoubtedly support our CARICOM brothers and sisters, and friends in Latin America to attain energy security whereby Guyana will be uniquely positioned as a regional energy hub.”

Making reference to another one of the nation’s rev-

olutionary developments, the Gas-to-Energy project, which will see Guyana’s gas resources being utilised in a manner that will usher in massive development, Dr. Ali said: “We have already seen that that second phase of gas coming in will have to support a second power plant that is based on the interest, just interest in manufacturing, industrial development…”

For context, Phase Two associated gas is planned to be utilised for liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, depending on the capacity.

TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS Guyana’s development in the oil-and-gas sector will serve as a catalyst for the transformation of almost every other sector.

According to the Head of State, the first phase of gas, that is the 40 per cent capacity of the pipeline, is approximately 4,000 barrels of propane-butane per day.

But what does this mean for Guyanese? Giving insight, Dr. Ali said that the normal consumption now is 800 barrels per day, so Guyana will be producing at least 4,000 barrels. This is in Phase One- 40 per cent of the pipeline.

“Our local consumption is 800 barrels. Immediately, we have 3,200 barrels available for export… [this] has to be transported,” he said while adding that this is where the Corentyne River Bridge, which will link Guyana and Suriname, can play an integral role.

In October 2023, two companies, the Dutch engineering company, Ballast Nedam, and Chinese-owned China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) submitted proposals to build the bridge over the Corentyne River Continued On Page 15

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Ex-farmer admits to manslaughter in Bourda — To be sentenced on April 3, 2024 Market stabbing RICHARD Martin, a former farmer from Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), is currently in the process of awaiting sentencing. He has confessed to the murder of Ovid Chester in 2020.

Chester, 52, also known as “Spade” or “Brucky” from Lot 123 South Vryheid Lust, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was fatally stabbed on September 2, 2020, at Bourda Market.

Following investigations by the police, 54-year-old Martin was charged with his murder.

At the conclusion of a preliminary inquiry (PI) before the Magistrate’s Court, Martin was committed to

Confessed killer: Richard Martin called ‘Mike’

stand trial for the capital offence before a judge and jury at the High Court.

At his arraignment before

Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall earlier this month, Martin opted to go through a trial by pleading not guilty to the murder indictment against him.

However, after consulting with his lawyer, Domnick Bess, he maintained his not guilty plea to the murder charge but opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter on Monday.

The Judge, during the trial at the High Court in Demerara, accepted the guilty plea.

The defendant is scheduled to appear in court on April 3, 2024, for the purpose of receiving sentencing.

During this hearing, the judge will consider probation and

Speeding, DUI charges lead over 2,900 traffic offences recorded last week THE Guyana Police Force recorded a staggering 2,911 charges against offenders between February 11 and 17, 2024, highlighting that speeding and driving under the influence (DUI) lead the charges.

According to the traffic department, over 1,700 tickets were issued, 441 summons served, and 33 warrants executed during the aforementioned week.

Further, the department noted that Region ‘4C’ (East Coast Demerara) recorded the highest number of speeding tickets (257), highlighting the need for continued enforcement in that area.

On Saturday police ranks saw the most DUI arrests (13), with Region Three recording the highest number of cases overall (14). At least ten offenders had blood alcohol levels exceeding the legal limit of .120 micrograms.

Additionally, Region 4B (East Bank Demerara) topped the list for total recorded cases (759), followed by Region 4C

Guyana Police Force traffic ranks in one of their many operations last week

(597) and Region Three (158).

The traffic department report also highlights ongoing traffic education initiatives, with 31 lectures conducted for various audiences, including drivers, pedestrians, e-bike operators, and proprietors. The lectures emphasised the importance of wearing safety helmets and seat belts, avoiding speeding, and

planning trips ahead of time.

Overall, the report indicated a continued focus on traffic enforcement in Guyana.

While educational efforts are underway, the high number of offences suggests a need for further public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement measures to ensure safer roads for all.

‘All gas resources will be developed in a...

From page 14 to link Guyana and Suriname.

The project will be facilitated through a public-private partnership arrangement, which means that the successful contractor or joint venture will be responsible for its final design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance.

President Ali also noted: “So, let us look at full capacity…which we don't foresee to be long after phase one, we are

looking at 10,000 barrels per day that is propane…So you're moving to 10,000 barrels per day. Now what does this mean for us? This means for us, that even with the growth in our demand, we will have 9,000 barrels per day ready for export.”

Shutting down any narratives being peddled by detractors of development, the Guyanese Head of State stressed: “When people ask why build roads? Why build bridges? This

is the economic link it creates…

If we don’t have it, then we will sit on 9,000 barrels of propane and it can’t hatch.”

Expounding on how making investments in supply chain transport logistics could form critical links to opening up opportunities for Guyana, the President did not hesitate to point out that job creation and the formation of businesses will be by-products.

prison conduct reports, as well as victim impact statements.

The matter is being prosecuted by State Counsel Praneta Seeraj and State Counsel Simran Gajraj.

According to investigations, Martin went to Bourda Market on September 1, 2020, to sell a construction net. There, he met Chester, who accepted his offer to sell the item.

After a while, he decided to go, since he had not seen Chester come back. On September 2, 2020, at around 10:00 hours, Martin came back to the market carrying a knife and set out to find Chester.

While Chester was standing in a passageway off North Road, Martin confronted him.

He began to inquire about the profits generated from the sale of the con-

struction nets to Chester. A heated dispute ensued between the two, leading the convict to retrieve a knife and inflict a stab wound to Chester's chest. Upon exiting the alley, Chester collapsed on Bourda Street.

Subsequently, he was transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced deceased upon arrival.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 20, 2024

NBA: Damian Lillard named Australia makes squad All-Star Game MVP in adjustments for record East win over West Chappell-Hadlee Trophy

DAMIAN Lillard was named the NBA All-Star Game’s Most Valuable Player(MVP) after helping the Eastern Conference beat the Western Conference 211-186.

The Milwaukee Bucks guard scored 39 points, including 11 three-pointers, in Indianapolis.

The East’s points tally was a record in an All-Star Game, surpassing the 196 scored by the West in 2016.

“I’ve been here quite a few times, so to have this kind of accomplishment is special.”

Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown contributed 36 points and Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton 32 for the East, who were the home side.

Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves scored 50 for the

Bucks guard Damian Lillard named MVP in NBA All Star game West.

The total of 397 points in the 73rd

All-Star Game broke the record of 374 set in 2017.

LA Lakers’ LeBron James, 39, took part in a record 20th All-Star Game but, because of an ankle injury, played only 14 minutes for the West and scored eight points.

It was reported that the Golden State Warriors tried to acquire James, external before the trade deadline on 14 February.

“I am a Laker and I’m happy and been very happy being a Laker the last six years and hopefully it stays that way,” he said before the game.

“But I don’t have the answer to how long it is, or which uniform I’ll be in.

Hopefully [it] is with the Lakers.

It’s a great organization; so many greats. But we’ll see.”(BBC Sport)

CARSON, California, (CMC) – Both Guyana and Haiti suffered defeats to miss out on the group stage of the Women’s Gold Cup. Playing at the Dignity Health Sports Park here Saturday, both sides suffered 1-0 losses to The Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico respectively.

Guyana put up stiff resistance in their encounter before being sunk by Kathrynn González’s 55th minute strike while Haiti went down to a 41st-minute goal from Jillienne Aguilera.

The Dominican Republic will now

do battle in Group ‘A’ alongside hosts United States, Mexico and Argentina, while Puerto Rico will compete with Panama, and CONMEBOL invitees Brazil and Argentina, in Group ‘B.’ Twelve teams will compete across three groups in the Women’s Gold Cup runs from February 20 to March 10.

Guyana made a fist of it in the first half, goalkeeper Chante Sandiford snuffing out a chance from defender Brianne Reed in the ninth minute and Shanice Alfred then coming close for the Caribbean Football Union side in the 17th.

Gonzalez then opened the scoring following a corner, Jaylen Vallecillo winning the ball on the left side of the box and teeing up her team-mate for a superb 22-yard volley.

Meanwhile, Haiti had chances to open the scoring inside the first halfhour when Shwendesky Joseph and captain Nerilia Mondesir both came close.

They were made to pay for their wastefulness when Danielle Julia Marcano was fouled in the area and Jillienne Aguilera converted from the penalty spot.

Jamaica Scorpions captain Jermaine Blackwood executed their plans,” he told the Observer newspaper here.

Scorpions lost their opener to Volcanoes heavily, going by nine wickets at Sabina Park after producing a timid display.

Their batting let them down on that occasion, with totals of 159 and 234 proving inadequate, and Romaine

Morrison the only player to get a half-century.

There was turnaround in the second game, however, with 38-year-old opener Chadwick Walton slamming a stellar 163 to lay the foundation for an impressive win.

“Last week didn’t go as we planned, but this week we came and rectified things,” explained the 32-year-old Blackwood, who has played 56 Tests.

“I want to credit all the players, especially Chadwick and Gordon Bryan, because I think they were exceptional this game.

We strive to make 300-plus in the first innings; we just have to pay more attention to partnerships like the one that Carlos (Brown) and Chadwick had [for the opening stand].”

Scorpions, who are yet to win the Championship in the professional era, host Barbados Pride in their third-round encounter at Sabina Park starting tomorrow.

Guyana, Haiti miss out on Gold Cup

Blackwood hails Scorpions first win

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Captain Jermaine Blackwood has praised his Jamaica Scorpions side in the wake of their first victory in the West Indies Championship in two years.

Scorpions, who went winless in the competition last season and lost their opener two weeks ago to Windward Islands Volcanoes, thrashed Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners by 10 wickets inside three days last Friday.

“We still have a little work to do in the middle, but I’m very happy with the first-innings [performance], and I think we bowled pretty well, too,” said Blackwood, the former West Indies Test vice-captain who recently lost his place in the international side.

“If some things didn’t happen in the first innings, they can always be rectified in the second innings, and I think the bowlers did that pretty well.

“They went out there and they

T20 World Cup 2021 winners Australia have been forced into late squad changes ahead of their away T20I series with New Zealand.

With the likes of Marcus Stoinis and Aaron Hardie ruled out of the series, fast bowler Spencer Johnson has been raced into the squad late, ahead of the first match on February 21.

Adam Zampa should be available for the series, despite a delay in reaching New Zealand due to a logistical issue, while Matthew Wade will link up with the squad in Auckland for Matches Two and Three.

Stoinis injured his back in the recently concluded T20I series against West Indies, with Hardie missing out on pressing for a spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup squad after complaining of a calf issue.

The Chappell-Hadlee Trophy is named in honour of Australia’s cricketing brothers Ian, Greg and Trevor

Australia all-rounder Marcus Stonis will miss the T20 series

Chappell, and the New Zealand cricket dynasty of Walter Hadlee and sons Barry, Dayle and Sir Richard.

The teams will compete for the trophy across both white-ball formats, with the endorsement of both the Chappell and Hadlee families, and given the significance of the series with a T20 World Cup in June.

Former New Zealand great Sir Richard Hadlee said the changes will enhance future series.

It’s great that the trophy will have more visibility and profile. I like the new conditions too, especially in the event of back-to-back 20-over and 50-over series, Hadlee said.

It means all games will continue to be relevant, and that the trophy will remain on the line for a longer period - plenty to play for.

Australia T20 squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

New Zealand T20 Squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young.

T20I series schedule: 1st T20I, February 21, Sky Stadium, Wellington 2nd T20I, February 23, Eden Park, Auckland 3rd T20I, February 25, Eden Park, Auckland (ICC Media).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 20, 2024

GCA & Friends two-day second-division cricket

Ramlall’s ton highlights Second-division action

By Sean Devers

A WELL-CONSTRUCTED 124 from Sunil Ramlall highlighted action over the weekend in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) and Friends two-day second-division cricket tournament when three games were played.

At the Queen’s College ground, El Dorado beat Diplomats by an innings and 19 runs.

Diplomats took first strike and playing with one short, made 106-9, innings closed.

Shemroy Griffith (31) and Nigel Simpson (27) were the only other batters to reach double figures.

Rohan Sukhandan had 4-22 while Ntini Permaul (2-32) and Carl Kumar (2-6) offered support.

When El Dorado replied, the burly Ramlall batted with authority and reached the boundary 16 times and cleared it on seven occasions

in his 124 before he was bowled by Quancy Cummings.

Two other batters; Malachi Griffith and Keon Franklyn scored half-centuries.

Griffth’s 65 included 10 fours and two sixes while Franklyn made 57 with six fours and six.

Owen Andrews (18) was the only other batter to reach 15 as El Dorado declared at 301-6 with a lead of 195 runs.

Cummings took 3-97 and Shemroy Griffith had 2-61 for Diplomats,who were bowled out for 176 in their second innings.

Adrian Foster made 46 with eight fours and two sixes, Nigel Simpson scored 40 with eight boundaries and Rayson Gill hit six fours in 27. Permaul had 4-36 and Gary Ross had 2-38.

At Transport, the home team, on the back of Myheim Khan’s 61 and a seven-wicket match haul from left-arm spinner Brandon Henry, beat

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday February 20, 2024)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Andre Russell-109 runs (2) David Warner-173 runs

Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI had the best bowling figures in a match in the recent T20 Int’l series versus AUST? (2) Which AUST bowler had the best figures in a single match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Anil Ramlall made 124 for El Dorado at QC Ace Warriors by two wickets.

Ace Warriors were dismissed for 209 with Derrick Bobb who hit five fours and a six in his 40, being the top scorer.

Diquan Murray (32) and Terrence King and Navindra Ramnauth with 26 each were the other batters to reach

Transport’s Myheim Khan scored 61 at the TSC ground double figures.

Reyaz Latif (3-31), Henry (3-44) and Khan (2-44) did the damage with the ball for TSC, who were bowled out for 159, despite Khan’s 61 with eight fours and two sixes.

Shilow Adams (25) and

Brandon Henry took a seven-wicket match haul to help TSC beat Ace Warriors by two wickets Azeem Azeez (18) offered token resistance as Navindra Ramnauth, Roger Aaron, Devendra Lall and Murray picked up two wickets each.

With a lead of 50, Ace Warriors fell for 95 in their

second innings as Lawrence Pellew, who clobbered a cameo 30 decorated with four boundaries, which included three sixes, put up a fight.

Ramnauth made 17.

Henry, last year’s Guyana U-13 Captain, followed his 3-44 in the first innings with 4-52, while Latif and John Persaud had two scalps each.

Set 146 to win, Transport reached 147-8 with Shamar Apple (25), Emmauel Lewis (19), Akeem Redman (11) and Latif (10) saw their team to a thrilling win.

Ramnauth finished with 5-63 and Lall took 2-36, but it was too little too late as Transport squeezed home.

In the other match at QC over the weekend, Bel Air Rubis beat Everest by eight runs.

Bel Air Rubis made 156 & 110 with Chris Harry getting 4-15 & 2-6 and Javid Rasheed 3-46 & 3-21.

Everest replied with 165 & 96 all out. Bel Air Rubis won by eight runs.

Pitamber and Rajkumar take honours at National U-16 Chess championship SACHIN Pitamber defied the odds to emerge victorious over his older counterparts to win the National Under-16 Chess title at Marian Academy over the weekend.

Pitamber finished on same points with Kyle Couchman, but won the championship on a tiebreak in the competition that saw over 50 players.

Kyle Couchman was in second place, with Alexander Zhang at third place.

The win for Pitamber comes after he had already clinched the national U-14 title.

The One-Day championship saw tacticians battling over seven rounds.

Maliha Rajkumar, mentored by FIDE master An-

Under-16 Boys winner Sachin Pitamber thony Drayton, came out on top in the girl’s category, with her top rival Aditi Joshi second, and Parnita Kishun coming in at third.

The tournament was sponsored by the Guyana Chess Federation.

National Under-16 Girl’s champion Mahila Rajkumar receives her trophy

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 20, 2024

23

17th edition of Florida Campbell’s 164 & Hohenkirk’s 5-74 Cup bowls off Friday give TSC first innings points GCIS Star Party Rentals & Trophy Stall 2-day first division

THE 17th edition of the South Florida Softball Cricket League (SFSCL), branded the Florida Cup, is set to get underway on Friday in Fort Lauderdale.

The three-day tournament, which culminates on Sunday, features teams from the hosts, Guyana, New York and Canada and will be played in the usual three categories – All Stars Open, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50.

All three categories have been divided into groups of two. The All Stars Group ‘A’ will see Hurricanes CC, Orlando All Stars and Shattaz All Stars battling, while Combines All Stars, SOFL All Stars and Titans All Stars contest Group ‘B’.

The three teams in the Masters Group ‘A’ are SSSCA Masters, Canadian Legends and Orlando Masters while

By Sean Devers IN sweltering heat at the GDF ground over the weekend, Jadon Campbell scored an attractive 164 while Off-spinner Nehemiah Hohenkirk snatched 5-74 as Transport Sports Club (TSC) took first innings in a drawn GCIS Star Party Rentals & Trophy Stall two-day, first-division cricket match against GNIC. GNIC won the toss and chose to bat first and were all out for 288 in 75 overs, with David Dick missing out on a well-deserved century.

Dick’s 98 included 13 fours and three sixes, Jermaine Grovsner’s 42 had four fours while John Champain made 40 with five boundaries.

Hohenkirk captured 5-74 while Reyad Latif supported with 4-60 for TSC, who reached 38 -2 by stumps on the opening day.

On Sunday Jadon Campbell reached the boundary 11 times and cleared it on

Jadon Campbell hit 11 fours Off-spinner Nehemiah Hohenkirk and 10 sixes in his 164. took 5-74 10 occasions in his blistering 164.

He got support from Alvin Mohab- TSC to 361- 6 in 81 overs by the end of ir whose 73 included nine fours and the match.

Dave Mohabir who made a carefully Ranole Bourne had 2-67 and Jerconstructed 52 with two boundaries to maine Grovesnor 2-39.

Daby rules the roost; wins for Ramdeo

PETER Daby and his Mazda RX7 second generation ruled the roost on Sunday as the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) staged its 1320 heat drag race event.

The South Dakota Circuit played host to the first drag race event of the year, and Daby started things off right with a 9.076 second time; the only sub ten-second competitor on the day.

Elsewhere, Shem Chattersingh won the 600cc Class, while Jermaine Chattersingh won the 1000cc.

Full details below: -- Official Results -16 Second Class #185 - Pankraj Ramdeo - Toyota Caldina 15 Second Class #53 - Vivikanand Jaikaran - Toyota Corolla Fielder 14 Second Class #66 - Shivan Raganauth - Toyota Carina 212

13 Second Class #85 - Pankraj Ramdeo - Toyota Corolla Run-X

12 Second Class #810 - Prakash Lachman - GMC Typhoon (Suriname) 11 Second Class #1167 - Vishal Gewan - Toyota Caldina 10 Second Class #59 - Krishna Ramsewack - Toyota Verossa 9 second class #2811 - Peter Daby - Mazda RX-7 (3rd gen) Female Class #148 - Fiona Dhanpat - Cadillac ATS 600 CC Bikes #101 - Shem Chattersingh - Suzuki GSX-R 1000 CC Bikes #103 - Jermaine Chattersingh - Suzuki Hayabusa

Some of the winners from Sunday’s 1320 heat

Flashback: Regal Legends’ Ramesh Deonarine poses with his winning in the 2022 tournament.

Group ‘B’ comprises SFSCL Masters, USA Masters and SCC Masters.

Legends Group ‘A’ is made up of Orlando Legends, Marine Legends and Shaw Realty Legends, while NYSCL Legends, Regal NY Hustlers and Trophy Stall Legends battle in Group ‘B.’ According to the organisers, the teams will play across their zone in the preliminary round.

In the playoffs, the top two teams from each zone will play each other and the winners for each zone will advance to the finals.

A significant development in this year’s tournament, sees Over-50 Legends defending champions Guyana’s Regal joining forces with New York Hustlers to form Regal NY Hustlers.

The 2022 Legends final, featuring Regal and Toronto Blizzards, will be fondly remembered for the brutal knock of 62 by the left-handed Eric Thomas, who plundered the Canadian bowlers in a masterful display of power-hitting.

Thomas took a special liking for former Canadian World Cup player Desmond Chumney, blasting him for six sixes in his lone over. Thomas was eventually bowled

by Rabindra Parasnauth for 63 off a mere 14 deliveries which included nine huge sixes and a four.

Thomas will however be missing from this year’s tournament after passing away last November, following a motor accident in August.

The 2022 tournament will also be sadly remembered for the unfortunate passing of stalwart softball administrator and player Lakhram “Mike” Singh, of Mike’s Pharmacy fame, who, after collapsing at the ground on the opening day of the tournament, died later the same night.

Meanwhile, the 2024 edition of the Florida Cup will be livestreamed, courtesy of Guyana TV Network and FL Sport.

Among the main sponsors are Kushara Collections and Soflo Environmental and LLC, who are honoured to be sponsors of this event. (Frederick Halley)

Powerlifter Romeo Hunter breaking the 83kg sub junior squat record

GAPLF novices and junior championship

Powerlifter Nathon Hackett collects prize from Carlos Petterson-Griffith after winning best Junior and Novice athlete

Brady, Hunter dominate as Nathon Hackett grab Overall title

ON Sunday last, at Saint Stanislaus College auditorium, 73- year old novice powerlifter, Norman Brady and Junior Romeo Hunter showed their strength to capture several records when the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation staged its National Novices and Junior championship.

Norman Brady defied his age to set a new national record in the men’s master 4 classic. First he set a new squat record of 67.5 kg, and then went on to clinch bench press mark of 70 kg and a deadlift of 110kg to also eclipse the total record of 247.5 kg to go along with his men’s master 4 classic category win for the 83kg weight class.

Seventeen year - old Romeo Hunter on the other end of the age scale was also outstanding as he clinched the 83kg men’s sub-junior equipped category after setting four new national records.

He first edged the mark in the squat, squatting 280kg before setting a new bench press record of 182.5kg and deadlift record of 237.5kg for a new total record worth 700kg.

Also on the records list was Nicholas Teju who set a new record in the men’s junior classic squat of 145kg, deadlift of 182.5kg and total 402.5kg to win his class.

The overall winner based on the new international powerlifting federation scoring matric was Nathon Hackett.

Hackett featured in the ultra-competitive 93kg junior and open category which was strikingly familiar to the battle of the 93kg at the recently concluded Sheffield Powerlifting Championship featuring four elite performers from Sweden, USA and Guyana with Carlos Petterson-Griffith representing Guyana. Carlos was on hand for the competition which saw the athletes going from strength to strength.

The local battles featured athletes from Unity gym, Ravin fitness training, and Fitness 53 and Exodus gym.

93kg Hackett came up against the likes of Omali Vancooten, Oslen Batson, Nigel Duguid and John Joshua who turned up to ink their names into the history books.

Joshua ‘bombed-out’ after failing his lift but Vancooten stepped up to the plate to emerge the top powerlifter claiming the men’s junior and open classic grouping after a 575kg total. He finished 212.5kg in the squat, 125kg in benchpress and 237 kg in the deadlift.

Hackett would take second place after a

Record breaker 73-year-old Norman Brady, after his performance, posing with Carlos Petterson-Griffith 562kg total with Baston third after amassing 654kg.

In the other male categories Matthew Watinou took the 66kg men’s sub junior and open classic wins ahead of Omar Satar and Omari Kewley respectively.

Denesh Manbodh won the open and junior 59 kg men’s junior categories. Meshach Alexander took the men’s junior classic 74kg win.

Keiron Abrigro clinched the 83kg men’s open class win with Irshaad Ali second.

Ali however was good enough to take the 83kg men junior classic class win.

On the distaff side, the winners were Mariah Bacchus in the 69 women’s junior class, Kendra Singh in the women open classic and Ronessa McAdam in the 69 kg women open classic.

Guyana, Haiti miss out on Gold Cup

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see story on page 21

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2024