Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 24-12-2022

‘Retro’ salaries, pensions and bonuses paid

- over 52,000 receive payout in time for Christmas

MORE than 52,000 public servants, teachers, members of the disciplined services, and government pensioners have received their 2022 salary increases, which represents payment of the

eight per cent retroactive salary increase announced by President Irfaan Ali on November 17, along with the substantive December salaries and pensions. This is according to

the Ministry of Finance, which said in a statement on Friday that its staff worked around the clock to ensure that the money was available before Christmas.

FULL STORY ON PAGE 3

Cuba stands at the pinnacle of selflessness, sacrifice

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President Ali hails nation’s ‘massive contributions’ to Guyana’s development

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali praised the valued connection between Guyana and Cuba at a reception honouring the 50th Anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries on Thursday evening at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.

President Ali highlighted that Cuba has made “massive contributions” to the development of Guyana, especially in the health sector through the training of thousands of healthcare workers.

He said that when selflessness and sacrifice are reflected, Cuba stands at the pinnacle. This, the President said, is a testament to the people of Cuba being committed to the causes of humanity, uplifting lives and making the world a better place.

“Today, as we celebrate 50 years of strong friendship, on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana I wish the President, Government and people of Cuba the best of health, prosperity and success,” Dr. Ali said.

A commemorative stamp to mark the 50th Anniversary of diplomatic relations was also unveiled.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Hugh Todd; other Ministers of the Government; the Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, Narciso Reinaldo Socorro and members of the diplomatic community were also at the event.

FULL STORY ON PAGE 3

Police ranks celebrating after President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced earlier this month, a number of significant salary increases (Guyana Police Force photo)

US$50M AC Hotels Marriott to create over 200 jobs

- construction underway with eyes set on 2024 completion

By Naomi Parris

CONSTRUCTION of the US$50 million AC Hotels Marriot at Ogle has begun and with works moving apace, some 200 Guyanese are expected to be employed when the hotel officially opens its doors in the fourth quarter of 2024.

During an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Conrad Sabga, the project team leader at Trinuyana Investments, said the new hotel is likely to create waves in the hospitality sector. Persons who wish to be employed at AC Hotels Marriot will undergo rigorous training with international experts.

Professionals from all Caribbean states can submit their applications; however, Guyanese nationals are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity.

“This project would provide upwards of 200 permanent employment opportunities in various positions. It is anticipated that 99 per cent of the staffing would be Guyanese nationals. Prior to the official opening of the hotel, the selected staff will undergo specific training in the hospitality business which would be conducted by international experts,” Sabga told this publication.

In April of this year,

Trinuyana Investments Inc. signed a contract with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Limited for the construction of the four-star, 150room hotel at the East Coast Demerara location.

Trinuyana Investments Inc. is a conglomerate of Guyanese and Trinidadian investors.

Some of the amenities of the new facility will include a swimming pool, fitness room, lounge, library, media salon, meeting room, reception area, a courtyard and an outdoor area. Paved parking lots, drive aisles and site roads will be situated north of the building.

“The AC Marriott would add much needed room stock to the expanding tourism sector and with its global ’bonvoy’ network and would attract travellers who will naturally be introduced to Guyana’s great tourism and business potential through this network,” Sabga said, further adding:

“Marriott is the largest hotel chain in the world and its members are faithful to its brand and know what to expect quality and service wise when they stay at a Marriott Hotel.”

The hotel is anticipated to be a hub not only for visitors and tourists but also the local population,

Construction works for the foundation of the AC hotels Marriot is underway and is nearing completion (Adrian Narine photo)

‘Retro’ salaries, pensions and bonuses paid

MORE than 52,000 public servants, teachers, members of the disciplined services, and government pensioners have received their 2022 salary increases, which represents payment of the eight per cent retroactive salary increase announced by President Irfaan Ali on November 17, along with the substantive December salaries and pensions. This is according to the Ministry of Finance, which said in a statement on Friday that its staff worked around the clock to ensure that the money was available before Christmas.

The statement said that Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, thanked staff who worked “tirelessly and diligently” to ensure that the increases were paid out in time for the Christmas season to eligible persons, together with the retroactive amounts on the designated payday.

The ministry also ensured that members of the disciplined services received the one-month tax-free bonus on Friday, just in time for Christmas. This bonus was announced by President Ali on December 21 and has placed over $1.3 billion in

the hands of members of the disciplined services.

All efforts were made by staff of the Ministry of Finance along with the respective Finance Departments across ministries and regions to ensure that workers received their December salaries along with the retroactive payments in keeping with government’s promise.

Minister Singh highlighted the importance of persons receiving these payments before Christmas, which will stimulate economic activity across the country.

The statement added that the Finance Minister also recognised the diligent efforts of the finance

staff in ensuring that the payrolls of various agencies were processed on time.

In addition to the eight per cent salary increase received, members of the disciplined services and health workers will also receive salary adjustments in January 2023, reflective of announcements made by President Ali on November 24 and December 12 respectively.

With regard to health sector workers, the salary adjustment to the tune of $1.5 billion will benefit over 5,000 health care professionals, while an estimated 8, 000 members of the disciplined services

will benefit from their salary adjustments which will increase their disposable incomes by over $1 billion annually.

President Ali has highlighted that his government’s focus is on a holistic plan of improving workers’ lives with salary increases being one

aspect of the benefits that will be provided.

Dr Singh noted that these increases will be multiplied as workers spend their increase in disposable incomes in markets, shops, or other businesses across the country, the statement added.

Cuba stands at the pinnacle of selflessness, sacrifice

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali praised the valued connection between Guyana and

Cuba at a reception honouring the 50th Anniversary of bilateral relations between

the two countries on Thursday evening at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.

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healthcare workers. He said that when selflessness and sacri-

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali praised the valued connection between Guyana and Cuba at a reception honouring the 50th Anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries (Office of the President)

FROM PAGE 2

Sabga said.

“The AC Marriott will be located a short walk

create over

from the Ogle International Airport and also just a 10-minute drive from Georgetown which makes

it very convenient for both business travellers and tourists,” he added According to Sabga,

114 parking spaces will be provided while a drop off roundabout will be constructed in front of the

courtyard. Retail stores are also included in the design.

“The hotel project will include restaurants, shops, and other amenities which would make it an attraction to not only visitors to the country but also to the local population.”

S abga added, “The hotel will of course be working with the Guyana tourist board in the preparation, selection and offering of unique tourism experiences to its guests who would showcase Guyana’s great potential.”

Meanwhile, President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, at a recent event said with

the extensive transformation taking place in Guyana’s tourism and hospitality sector, the government is eyeing profit-making ventures that will sustainably exploit Guyana’s natural beauty, and capitalise on new partnerships.

The Head-of-State further noted that the government is currently in the planning phase for a new hospitality training institute which will cost some US$11 million, and with eight new hotels under construction, that will mean some 1,300 new rooms will be added to the burgeoning tourism and hospitality sector.

Jamaica and Cuba discuss enhancement of partnership in agriculture

JAMAICA is looking to forge closer ties with Cuba for the further development of the local agriculture sector.

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Pearnel Charles Jr, said there was potential for the countries to join efforts in research and development for pest and weed management and alternatives for animal feed and fertilisers.

“These are areas of focus because they directly impact our capacity for increased and improved production and will be a focus as we, in Jamaica,

drive our ‘Grow Smart, Eat Smart’ strategy, which we welcome Cuba to join,” he said.

“Another important area of continued collaboration that can be better refined is engagement as it relates to the expertise for repair of equipment used in farming operations,” Charles Jr added.

He was speaking during a virtual meeting with Cuba’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Maury Hechavarria Bermudez, on December 20.

Charles Jr reiterated the government’s commitment to exploring all viable options to

advance agriculture and ultimately, achieve food security.

Jamaica and Cuba have enjoyed friendly relations over the last 50 years, with thousands of students benefitting from tertiary education, including specialised training in the field of agriculture.

The Ministry continues to prioritise its ‘Grow Smart, Eat Smart’ strategy, which aims to expand the sector’s growth and sustainability, achieve food security and reduce the food import bill. (Jamaica Observer)

Cuba stands at the pinnacle of selflessness...

FROM PAGE 3

fice are reflected, Cuba stands at the pinnacle. This, the President said, is a testament to the people of Cuba being committed to the causes of humanity, uplifting lives and making the world a better place.

“Today, as we celebrate 50 years of strong friendship, on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana I wish the President, Government and people of Cuba the best of health, prosperity and success,” Dr. Ali said.

A commemorative stamp to mark the 50th Anniversary of diplomatic relations was also unveiled.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-opera-

tion, Hugh Todd; other Ministers of the Government; the Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, Narciso Reinaldo Socorro and members of the diplomatic community were also at the event.

Guyana and Cuba established diplomatic relations on December 8, 1972.

It was reported that as of 2021, a total of 1,149 Guyanese have graduated after studying in Cuba in the field of medicine and scores have benefitted from scholarships as the two countries mark their 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations tomorrow.

This is according to the President of the Guyana-Cuba Solidarity Movement (GCSM) Halim Khan.

Guyana established diplomatic relations with Cuba on December 8, 1972, after becoming independent from the United Kingdom.

Khan said that Cuba had provided collaboration and professional training to over 50,000 students in 70 countries and had brigades of

medical professionals there.

He related that hundreds of thousands of Cubans had fulfilled international missions in different sectors like education, construction and health with its “Army of White Coats” that contributed to saving lives daily and helping to elevate

the quality of life and expectancy around the world.

“Guyana and Cuba share a close, cordial relationship characterised by friendship, fruitful

exchanges, political and economic solidarity and tangible programmes of co-operation particularly in the fields of education, culture and health,” Khan said.

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Pearnel Charles Jr (right), and Acting Principal Director of Agricultural Economic Planning & Policy, Kevin Condappa, peruse a document, during a virtual meeting with Cuba’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Maury Hechavarria Bermudez, on December 20 (Jamaica Observer photo)

Christmas Is Here

CHRISTMAS is here!

It is the most anticipated day in the calendar. Although it is a Christian holiday, the day that Christians throughout the world celebrate the birth of Jesus, everyone, regardless of faith, celebrate the festival and spirit of the season with their shopping, gifting, cooking, merrymaking, entertaining, eating, serving the less fortunate, and even worshipping.

Shopping is almost over for meals and gifts, and adults begin preparations of meals for an extended period. It is a special time for children and a poignant time to reflect on what we did during the year.

The season also brings

back memories of our own childhood and of growing up. Children look forward to Christmas morning for special gifts, which they open with delight. It is also a time of giving, of caring not only for ourselves and our own families, but also for others in need.

It is the season that one can’t escape, regardless of whether you wish to celebrate or not. There is seasonal music and decorations everywhere. People join in the fun and celebration, regardless of faith.

Some celebrants have plenty, more than they can use. Their yards and homes are brightly lit and families have many colourfully wrapped packages to share among each

other. Others have less and make do with what they have.

Regretfully, so much attention is spent on the material aspects of the season, such as consumerism and entertainment, that the solemn meaning of the season sometimes gets lost.

In addition to everything else, it is also the season of hope and to care for and share with others, especially the dispossessed and those who can’t afford three daily meals or for those who are without roofs over their heads. Sharing a little possession or wealth with others would not impoverish the donors and would brighten the faces of the recipients.

Your kindness and

generosity will touch many lives that cut across religious lines, more so than any other holiday we celebrate in our beautiful country of a kaleidoscope of people and faiths. Let’s help support and feed the needy.

Christmas is a time of family traditions, especially of getting together and strengthening bonds and worshiping. And we encourage such getting together. However you celebrate, we wish you a merry Christmas and a joyous season

It can be admitted that, just like children, adults, too, feel their hearts swell and feel joy whenever they spend time cleaning, cooking or being out in the packed streets across the country.

Immense joy is also felt when giving back to those less fortunate, or when wrapping gifts for your children, and providing them with the things finances simply can’t buy.

The best of this season is being able to have stories to tell for many years to come; the stories of that aunt who never misses an event, or of the children who make funny statements about the way something looks. And then there are the stories of that one family-friend who happens to get so drunk, that he falls off the bridge at your home.

The stories of a woman making it safely out of an abusive relationship, and starting anew; a child being adopted just in time for Christmas; a last-min-

ute promotion or bonus added to your salary. Then there are the stories of the unsung heroes around us; those who, despite not having a lot, give a lot. The stories that inspire us the most to be kind and gentle, and to not take our lives, or our health for granted.

Christmas movie marathons that bring your family closer, and pitch a fresh perspective of life that you’ve never seen or heard of before. Christmas Carols blasting all day in most homes throughout the country. The entire fuss of entering stores along Regent Street for one single thing that you just, “gah get” to make the house look as elegant as ever.

President Ali hosts luncheon for staff at State House

AS part of the festive season, His Excellency President Irfaan Ali held a celebratory luncheon for his support staff at State House on Friday.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, and Permanent Secretary in the Office

of the President, Abena Moore were among the senior officials in attendance (Office of the President photos)

Demerara Channel expanded to 100 metres, nine metres deep

- with consistent dredging of river

PUBLIC Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, during a simple ceremony on Friday, received the survey charts of the Demerara Channel from local consortium, NRG Holdings Inc., which was represented by NRG-owned Vreeden-Hoop Shore Base Inc. partners, Nicholas Deygoo Boyer and Andron Alphonso, and a representative from Jan De Nul.

The consortium, which includes Hadi’s World Incorporated, ZRN Investment Inc., and National Hardware Ltd. is developing the Vreed-enHoop Port Project to support Guyana’s growing oil-and-gas sector.

In handing over the document, Boyer said that the group was very appreciative of the government for allowing them to undertake the project.

“We hope that everybody sees our commitment to Guyana, in terms of doing this,” Boyer said, adding:

“Since we began our project, you would have noticed dredges from our partner company, Jan De Nul, out there, working diligently to open up the Demerara Channel. And now that channel has moved from 70 meters wide to 100 meters wide, nine meters deep, chart datum. All the information and surveys are contained here.”

He related: “This activity, indeed, was undertaken by us privately, and we hope that is a show of good faith towards what we want to build in Guyana.”

Minister Edghill, who was accompanied by Director General of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) Captain Stephen Thomas,

and MARAD’s Legal Officer, Thandi McAllister, said that this particular project gives the Ministry of Public Works and the Government of Guyana a golden opportunity to showcase to all Guyanese, and the rest of the world, that the President Dr. Irfaan Ali-led administration is not only strong and long on words, but extremely committed to facilitating and ensuring opportunities for Guyanese businesses to prosper and succeed.

“When we came to office, we said Guyana is open for business. And I recall, very early, VicePresident Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and President Ali going through with all the various private sector entities that had applications for permits for major development projects, during the time of the previous administration, but nothing was moving or going forward. And if we said we were going to facilitate business, we were going to act,” Minister Edghill said.

He went on to say: “Coming out of that engagement, a number of things happened, and we were proud when we saw that this consortium was able to put themselves together; all Guyanese, to do a major development programme. The private sector did not wait to say government must do this before they could do what they needed to do, but went out there, without the necessary capital, and made the investments, with our permits, to facilitate the development that is taking place at NRG.”

“I am happy today to receive these charts which will now form the permanent records of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD)

of the Ministry of Public Works. This would be able to provide information for notices to Mariners and it would also be a good time for us to say that the Government of Guyana intends to engage in ensuring the entire Demerara Channel is active and is able to facilitate the kind of traffic for both imports and exports that is required,” Minister Edghill said.

He said, too, that it is the directive of President Ali that this port be able to accommodate and facilitate larger vessels than what currently frequent local waters, as well as accommodate traffic going and coming at the same time.

As per the extensive works, since this began, wrecks have been removed from the channel, the draft has increased from five meters to nine meters, and channel has been lengthened by five miles in the NW direction, as well as has been widened by more than 60 per cent.

The new, deeper, longer, wider channel means that larger vessels can now be accommodated in Port Georgetown.

The dredging is being undertaken by the M.V Galileo Galilei, which is owned and operated by Belgian international maritime infrastructure company, Jan De Nul.

The US$300 million shore-base project is expected to become operational by the fourth quarter of 2023.

Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, during a simple ceremony on Friday received the survey charts of the Demerara Channel from local consortium NRG Holdings Inc., which was represented by NRG-owned Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc. partners, Nicholas Deygoo Boyer and Andron Alphonso, and a representative from Jan De Nul (Ministry of Public Works photo)

Floodwaters recede in Region Seven

- relief being provided to residents

Surinamo, Semanng, Martins’s Landing, Apaika, Hymeraca and Tamakay. Several farms in those areas were also affected.

Further, Williams said that the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) will be providing support to the residents who were affected.

Earlier this month,

Guyana’s Hydrometeorological Service had cautioned that the upcoming rainy season, DecemberJanuary, will not be favourable, with “wetter” than usual weather conditions.

Persons in low-lying, riverine, and floodprone areas were advised to take the necessary precautions against flood -

ing, as over-topping is likely from above-normal high tides.

Further, the CDC urged persons to place sandbags where necessary, unplug all electrical items that are likely to come into contact with water, and elevate all household items. The commission has also advised persons to relo -

cate livestock to higher ground, and use purification tablets as prescribed.

Persons are also urged to report floods, damage to sea defences, overtopping and landslides to the National Emergency Monitoring Systems (NEMS) by telephone: 226-1027, 2261117, 600-7500 (Whatsapp) 604-9929.

THE water level is receding in flood-affected Region Seven communities, thereby making it easier for relief efforts to be undertaken by the authorities.

In an invited comment on Friday, Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Kenneth Williams, told the Guyana Chronicle that floodwaters in the previously affected communities have receded.

“We are extremely grateful that there is a

reduction in the water level …many persons are returning to ply their trade,” Williams said.

Three weeks ago, residents in the Upper Mazaruni had experienced severe flooding as a result of excessive and heavy rainfall, coupled with high tides.

Williams related that floodwaters have receded by five inches in several communities. The communities previously affected were Issano, Pappy Show Landing,

Floodwaters in Region Seven have begun to recede

A resident cleaning

Guyana, Brazil have lion’s share of oil production in Latin America

FIVE countries in Latin America -- Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, Mexico and Venezuela – are looking to boost oil production in 2023, but the lion’s share will come from developments in exploration hotspots Brazil and Guyana.

This is according to Hart Energy, the global energy industry’s comprehensive source for news, data and analysis.

The company, in an article on its website, said that Latin America may not be the solution to Europe’s energy crisis, but it will add significant new production volumes next year and beyond.

“The region’s two exploration hotspots, Brazil and Guyana, will anchor production growth in 2023, and could add 3.6 million bbl/d [barrel per day] between 20232027,” the company said. It reached this conclusion based on the data it had compiled.

According to Hart Energy, this growth will come from the installation of six new floating

production storage and offloading (FPSO) units next year, and 15 more over the following four years.

New production from the two emerging countries, among others, will provide some assistance to a global energy market still rattling from the loss of Russian supply, sanctioned after its invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.

Notwithstanding, Latin America will continue to encounter formidable headwinds, such as rising energy costs, despite an abundance of resources due to a high dependency on imports from LNG to refined petroleum products, which will continue to stoke inflation, the article said.

“While Brazil and Guyana will garner the most investor attention and capital spend, other Latin American countries such as Colombia, Mexico and Venezuela could also boost production over the near-term, if above-ground risks mainly related to political uncertainties are kept

to a minimum,” it added.

Guyana was described as a “newcomer” to the Latin America oil production and exporting club.

“Guyana continues to ride a wave of successful exploration in its prolific offshore Stabroek Block. There, an Exxon Mobil-led consortium that includes Hess Corp. and China’s CNOOC has found gross recoverable resources estimated at around 11 Bboe [billions of barrels of oil equivalent]. The three companies will continue with exploration efforts in Stabroek while other integrated oil companies (IOCs) explore other blocks. A recently announced offshore bid round for 14 blocks is likely to attract old and new IOCs and national oil companies (NOCs) seeking to replicate Exxon’s feats in Stabroek,” the article said.

It added that currently, Exxon’s first two developments in Stabroek, Liza I and Liza II, are producing around 360,000 bbl/d from the

Boat captain dies in river accident

AN accident involving two motorboats has resulted in the death of a 53-yearold boat captain, Rudolph Henry, of Parakeese Village, North West District, Region One.

According to a release, the accident occurred around 13:30hrs and involved

the two boats which were captained at the time by Nikita Miller, aged 31 years, a businesswoman of Chinese Landing, Barama River, and Henry, respectively.

Enquiries revealed that Miller was driving her boat in the vicinity of Mora Village in the Moruca River,

heading to Chinese Landing, when the two boats collided.

Henry, who received injuries, was rushed to the Kumaka District Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

The man’s body is at the hospital’s mortuary awaiting a post-mortem.

Liza Destiny FPSO (140,000 bbl/d) and Liza Unity FPSO (220,000 bbl/d), respectively.

New production forecast for late 2023 will come from incor-

poration of the 220,000 bbl/d capacity Prosperity FPSO, which corresponds to the third development Payara. Two additional FPSO units (with 250,000 bbl/d ca-

pacity each) are forecast for 2025 and 2026 corresponding to the fourth and fifth developments of Yellowtail and Uaru, respectively, it added.

Region One detective adjudged ‘Best Cop’

DETECTIVE Constable Marvin Sam, who performed exceedingly well during the year, was adjudged ‘Best Cop’ for Region One (Barima-Waini), while several ranks were awarded recently when the Police Division held its Annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony.

Members of several Community Policing Groups and members of the Corporate Sector who played a crucial role and continue to assist the ranks within the Division were also recognised and awarded.

The event, which

was held at the Regional Democratic Council Conference Room, Mabaruma, North West District, saw Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ (ag), Ravindradat Budhram; Head of Special Branch, Assistant Commissioner, Errol Watts along with Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Himnauth Sawh and Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley and other Key Stakeholders attending.

Constable Sam, who is stationed at the Matthew’s Ridge Police Station, joined the Guyana Police Force in 2015.

During the year

2022, Detective Constable Sam was integrally involved in the investigation and solving of seven murders that occurred between January and November, 2022 as well as the seizure of over 400 grams of Cannabis and a .32 Pistol within the Region.

While the Division’s crime-fighting posture has been commendable throughout the year, it was further boosted with three new pick-ups and four ATVs, which will play an integral role in allowing the ranks to patrol the terrain and attend to reports effectively.

(From right) Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ (ag), Ravindradat Budhram; Best Cop runner-up, Corporal Persaud; Region One Best Cop, Detective Constable Marvin Sam, and Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Himnauth Sawh

Region Two administration hosts Christmas tree light-up, distributes toys

ANNA REGINA came alive on Saturday evening when the Region Two administration, in collaboration with the Regional Tourism Association, ‘lit up’ a 15-foot Christmas tree and hosted a cultural programme at the Independence Park. The programme was organised to usher in the festive season of Christmas and featured several local artistes.

During the programme, Santa Claus distributed over 500 toys to children.

Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, told the large gathering that, since it was the season for sharing and giving, the administration decided to distribute gifts to the children.

She said that Guyana is a multi-culture society and Christmas is celebrated by all religious groups, not only Christians.

De Silva used the opportunity to call on Essequibians to continue living in unity and to embrace diversity in keeping with President

Irfaan Ali’s ‘One Guyana’ initiative.

She also extended season’s greetings to all those in attendance and the entire nation.

It was also the first time that the Anna Regina high bridge was lit up. Thousands of persons converged around the township to view the spectacular scene.

Regional Executive Officer, Susannah Saywack, also extended greetings to those who attended the event.

The Christmas tree light-up at Anna Regina

Electronic medical records to come on stream within three years

- Health Minister says

WITH government looking to create a modern healthcare system for Guyana, the Ministry of Health is currently working on legislation for electronic medical records.

This is according to Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, who made this disclosure during his address at the opening of a nurs-

ing assistant training programme in Region Two.

He noted that the government is working to ensure the digital collection and storage of all medical records over the next three to four years. This would require nurses and other medical staff being trained so that they can understand how to operate the system.

Against this backdrop, Dr. Anthony said that the change in the system speaks to the privacy of patients and that privacy laws must be in place to ensure the information is secure.

“One of the things that we have already started working on is to make sure that, by sometime next year, we will be able to pass the relevant laws to allow for digital or electronic record systems,” the minister said.

He went on to add

that the laws will create an environment which ensures that the records and people’s information are kept safe.

Dr. Anthony said that the government had started working on that and was hopeful that, by next year, it will be able to pilot the first steps of the electronic medical records system.

The health minister explained that, with the new system, patients at health centres and hospitals will have their names entered into the system which will show healthcare staff all of their medical records which will include laboratory results, allergies and other health-related information.

Just a few months ago, the health minister had said that the ministry was advancing its efforts to digitise its records with the installation of the electronic medical records system.

At that time, he mentioned that there were numerous advantages when using such a system. One such advantage would

be the ability to store large amounts of data and retrieve it readily and have all the patient’s records in one place.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony (Ministry of Health photo)

300 Reg. 4 small businesses benefit from SBB grants

APPROXIMATELY

300 small business owners from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) will receive $150,000 to help expand their operations as part of a small business grant programme spearheaded by the Small Business Bureau (SBB).

According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), one of the recipients, Chandrawattie Sadiq was elated to receive the grant. She has been a seamstress for several years, and hopes to purchase additional sewing machines to expand her business.

“I would just want to thank the Small Business Bureau and the government for the opportunity, because this is going to help us,” Sadiq told the DPI.

Damon Boyce, who also collected his cheque, is thankful for the assistance. He said the gesture from the government would significantly push his new taxi and carrental service.

“I am into the taxi service and car rental for approximately three weeks, and am looking forward to serving the community,” the budding entrepreneur related.

For Ann D’Ornellas, the timely support will help accomplish her dreams of becoming a big agent for Guyana’s two leading telephone companies.

“My business is simply retailing; I sell cards and credit for Digicel and GTT, along with MMG,” D’Ornellas said, adding:

“I am seeing that I am going big with the MMG; that’s my desire; to be an agent… And this grant will help me to continue, and to invest more in the business.”

Over the past two weeks, the SBB has con-

ducted similar distribution exercises in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Seven (Cuyuni Mazaruni) and Ten (Upper Demerara Berbice).

SBB’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Simon Pollard explained that the distribution process would continue next week in several regions, including Region Four.

“We will be going back to some of the regions to distribute grants to those persons who would have applied, and were not among the first batch when we were in those regions; we will be going back to Region Six and Two sometime next week,” Pollard stated.

He disclosed that the SBB has seen a significant increase in the number of persons benefitting from its programme this year, and is hoping to expand its current initiatives, and establish more

options for business owners to pursue.

“One of the things we want to encourage small business owners to do is to apply to the Small Business Bureau,” Pollard said, adding: “There are various services that we offer; the grant programme is just the access to finance programmes. We also have the collateral guarantee programme, where they are arranged with Republic Bank and GBTI.”

Close to 200 small businesses across the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara (Region Three) are also expected to receive grants. That exercise also began on Friday with the first 40 persons benefitting from it. The SBB intends to distribute more than 1,400 small business grants valuing some $300 million to entrepreneurs countrywide.

The SBB continues the distribution of small business grants in Region Four (DPI photos)

HUNDREDS of children receive Christmas gifts from First Lady

FIRST Lady Arya Ali, on Thursday, distributed Christmas gifts to hundreds of children in Lusignan, East Coast Demerara and at Parliament Square Park in Georgetown.

On her Facebook page, Mrs. Ali said the light in a child’s eyes is all it takes to make Christmas a magical

time of the year.

“It was indeed magical yesterday when Minister Oneidge Walrond and I distributed presents to more than 1,000 children in Lusignan - the place I was born and raised for the first nine years of my life. It was truly special to be able to put a smile on their little

faces,” she said.

The First Lady later attended the lightup event in Parliament Square Park, where she and the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, distributed gifts to the children in attendance. (First Lady of Guyana photos)

GPF undergoing significant upgrades, rapid transformation – ‘Top Cop’ Hicken

COMMISSIONER of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, said he was honoured to be at the helm of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) at a time when it is undergoing significant upgrades and rapid transformation.

comforts for serving members of the Force and the public.

Hicken later underscored his desire for the Guyana Police Force to be the shining light across the Caribbean.

The ‘Top Cop’ reminded

munities. On that note, Commissioner Hicken highlighted the many partnerships with Community Policing Groups (CPGs), private security services, and the several signed MOUs and MOA’s.

isolation, so we will continue to build capacity.”

To cut response time, the ‘Top Cop’ stated that every region would be fully equipped to function independently.

a plaque.

The First and Second runners-up awards went to Corporal 18405 Winston Poliah, and Constable 24097 Balraj Budhoo, respectively.

for their stellar performances and dedication within their various communities in Berbice.

The ‘Top Cop’ was, at the time, giving his feature address, on Thursday, at the awards ceremony in Regional Police Division Six (East Berbice), at the annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, during which 44 Police Ranks were recognised and awarded for their dedication and hard work in 2022.

The well-organised ceremony was held at the St. Francis Community Developers Japanese Hall, Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant, Berbice.

The ceremony was being held when ranks across Guyana (in all twelve of the Police Regional Divisions) were being recognised for their outstanding performances for the year 2022.

Alluding to the fact that the GPF cannot operate in isolation, the ‘Top Cop’ stressed the necessity for cooperation and partnership between the police and communities. He noted that the GPF is constantly expanding its internal capabilities to fulfil the populace’s needs.

As a result, Hicken said the Guyana Police Force was making the required modifications to ensure that the Force is up-to-date.

With that, he further noted that the GPF was working assiduously to ensure all divisional outposts have infrastructural designs with

the ranks that part of the GPF’s focus was ‘partnership’ and, by extension, building bridges across com-

He noted that ranks would soon benefit from regional training to build capacity. “In contemporary policing, we cannot work in

The ‘Top Cop’ highlighted the importance of strengthening the bonds of friendship and working in partnership with the communities to build a stronger Police Force.

“Without you, there’s no us,” Commissioner Hicken declared, in direct reference to the importance of members of the public whom members of the GPF are mandated to serve and protect.

In closing, he further reminded ranks that professionalism is paramount and ethical standards must be maintained.

“Be professional at all times and keep the Force’s flag flying high,” Hicken told ranks at the awards ceremony.

For Regional Division six, the ‘Best Cop’ award was won by Constable 23206 Courtney Sampson, who was awarded $100,000 cash, a gift certificate, a trophy, and

Apart from those awards, thirty business communities were awarded certificates of recognition for their sterling contribution to Regional Police Division Six for 2022.

Ten community policing groups were also awarded ‘certificates of recognition’

Additionally, accompanying Commissioner Hicken to Berbice was Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’, Calvin Brutus. Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Bishop Patrick Findlay, and Regional Chairman, David Armogan, were among those in attendance.

Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, greets divisional commander, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus, on his arrival at the Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony

London-based NGO to approach CCJ over

Guyana’s retention of the death penalty

DISSATISFIED that the Court of Appeal has declined to declare the death penalty unconstitutional in Guyana, the Death Penalty Project (DPP), a London-based non-governmental organisation (NGO), is considering approaching the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on the matter.

The organisation made its position known shortly after three soldiers, who were sentenced to death for the 2009 murder of Bartica gold dealer Dwieve Kant Ramdass, had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.

In 2013, Sherwin Hart, Deon Greenidge, and Devon Gordon were found guilty of the capital offence of murder. They were later sentenced to death by hanging by Justice Franklyn Holder at the Demerara High Court.

According to a statement issued by the organisation, it offered assistance to the three appellants and supported their legal team in Guyana.

During the hearing of the appeal, the NGO provided evidence to the court from leading academics which showed that capital punishment does not act as a greater deterrent to crime than lesser forms of punishment, and that there is a growing consensus that capital punishment is inherently inconsistent with respect for the Rule of Law.

“The Court of Appeal did not accept these arguments, and has declined to declare capital punishment unconstitutional in Guyana. The Court of Appeal overturned the appellants’ sentences of death, on the basis that it was un-

constitutional for the trial court to hand down the death penalty automatically without affording the appellants individualised sentencing hearings. The failure to do so was a breach of their constitutional rights,” the DPP said in its statement, adding that its legal team will now explore a further appeal to the CCJ, which is Guyana’s final appellate court.

According to the statement, the Co-Executive Director of the DPP, Saul Lehrfreund said: “Whilst we are pleased to see the three appellants removed from death row, the Court of Appeal’s approach to the constitutionality of the death penalty itself is extremely disappointing. The death penalty is inherently arbitrary and contrary to the constitutional rights of those who it affects.

“We remain resolved to abolishing the death penalty in Guyana and will work with the legal team, in this case, to mount an onward appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice. Guyana remains the only country in South America to retain the death penalty and we call on the country’s leaders to take the necessary steps to abolish the punishment.”

Hart and Greenidge were represented by Trinidad-based attorney, Douglas Mendes, S.C., while attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat is on record for Gordon. Prominent local attorney Nigel Hughes and his associates appeared, pro bono, for the DPP.

The case was heard, virtually, before Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette Cummings-Edwards, and Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud.

The defence counsels had argued that the imposition of the death sentence on their clients was severe. They appealed to the court to commute the sentence to a term of imprisonment.

They had also argued that the imposition of the mandatory death penalty was unconstitutional since it violated the constitutional right to protection from cruel, inhumane and degrading punishment as provided for in Article 141 of the Constitution.

The CoA in its ruling pointed out that the men were charged before amendments were made to the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01.

Justice Gregory went on to explain that with the amendments, judges now have the discretion to impose the death sentence, imprisonment for life, or such other term he/she considers appropriate.

The court also found that it had the jurisdiction to entertain the case, but had advised that the constitutional arguments on the penalty be put to the High Court.

The CoA made it clear, however, that while the death sentence was being set aside; the conviction itself for the capital offence is being upheld.

The court ordered that Harte, who was the senior officer in command at the time, be eligible for parole

after serving 25 years, while his subordinates, Gordon and Greenidge, be eligible for parole after

18 years. Reports are that on August 20, 2009, the three men who were manning

the Coast Guard RC 12 motorboat on the Essequibo River, made off with $17 million in cash which Ramdass was carrying in a box to Bartica for his employer, who is based in the city and operates a gold and diamond business.

The trio allegedly told investigators shortly after their arrest that they’d strangled Ramdass, took the money he was carrying, and threw his body overboard in the vicinity of Caiman Hole on the Essequibo River.

- wants it declared unconstitutional

CEO of Hess Corporation to deliver keynote address at Energy Conference

CHIEF Executive Officer

(CEO) of Hess Corporation, John B. Hess is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the second edition of the International Energy Conference and Expo slated for February 2023.

According to a press release, Hess led the Fortune 500 firm through a strategic transformation from an integrated oil company into a pure play exploration and production (E&P) one. He previously served as the Sec-

retary of Energy Advisory Board Quadrennial Review Task Force, and is currently a member of the Board of Directors of KKR & Company and the Board of Trustees at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

The US-owned Hess Corporation recently entered a deal with Guyana to buy US$750 million worth of REDD+ carbon credits in the next decade to support efforts in protecting its rainforests. Hess is a significant player in Guyana’s Stabroek Block

offshore project, alongside ExxonMobil and CPGL of China.

Hess’ purchase of REDD+ carbon credits from Guyana will produce credits in accordance with the REDD+ Environmental Excellence Standard 2.0. (TREES). The programme measures and confirms emission reductions from REDD+ operations.

Chief Executive Officer of the International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana 2023, Kurt Baboolall, said: “We hope that by inviting Mr. Hess to the conference and expo’s second iteration, he can contribute to discussions on energy, and the energy transformation that is set to happen in the region.”

He related: “We could

learn from these players what works and what we can do differently in order to sustain our energy sector and seek to create a robust industry here and throughout the Caribbean region.”

The Conference and Expo is now entering its second year under the theme “Harnessing Energy for Development”, and will be held from February 14-17, 2023 at the Marriott Hotel.

The registration portal for the conference and expo could be found on the conference’s website, www.guyanaenergy.gy. Preregistration is now open for sponsors, exhibitors, in-person attendees, virtual attendees, workshop participants, and members of the media, all being done Online.

Appeal Court affirms pastor’s rape conviction, reduces sentence to 25 years

PASTOR Andrew Hannibal, who is currently serving a 40-year jail term for raping a 15-year-old girl, had his sentence reduced to 25 years by the Court of Appeal on Wednesday.

In 2018, Hannibal was sentenced by Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Berbice High Court, after a jury found him guilty of the rape which was committed between January 29 and 30, 2016, in the County of Berbice.

The judge had sentenced Hannibal to serve 40 years in prison with the possibility of parole after 30 years.

In his appeal documents, the convict claimed that the trial judge erred in law and that the sentencing was excessive, and too severe.

As such, he asked the court to reserve and/or set aside his conviction and sentence.

The appeal was heard by Chancellor (ag) Yonette

Cummings-Edwards, and Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud.

The court affirmed Hannibal’s conviction but reduced his sentence to 25 years with the possibility of parole after serving 18 years.

It was ordered that the time Hannibal spent in pretrial custody will be deducted from his sentence.

According to the facts, a sibling of the victim awoke and discovered that she was not in her bed. As a result, their guardian was informed and a search was carried out. The teen was seen in an outhouse.

In response to questions, she confessed that she was with the pastor.

A report was made to police. Subsequently, she was seen and examined by a medical practitioner who indicated that the child had been sexually violated.

Chief Executive Officer of the Hess Corporation, John B. Hess

Andrew Hannibal

auction… Big-money moves for several players

SUNRISERS

HYDERABAD

Squad strength: 25 players (overseas 8)

Players bought: Harry Brook (US$1.6M), Mayank Agarwal (US$1M), Heinrich Klaasen (US$640,000), Vivrant Sharma (US$ 317,000), Adil Rashid (US$243,000), Mayank Dagar (US$219,000), Akeal Hosein (US$121,000), Mayank Markande (US$60,000), Upendra Yadav (US$30,000), Sanvir Singh (US$24,000), Samarth Vyas (US$24,000), Nitish Kumar Reddy (US$24,000), Anmolpreet Singh (US$24,000)

The wins: needed a wrist-spinner. Got a T20 World Cup winner for just INR 2 crore. Adil Rashid's performance in the last three matches of that tournament - including the semi-final and final - read 12-1-58-4. He may not be Rashid Khan but he's close.

Middle-order muscle. It's often been lacking in Sunrisers and that's what Harry Brook brings. This will be his first IPL, but he plays spin well, he bats 360 degrees and can whack it from ball one. Ben Stokes is already comparing him to Virat Kohli.

Mayank Agarwal, if he can play to potential, can be a point of difference at the top to complement Abhishek Sharma.

Sunrisers bid for 13 players in all, got 12. Stokes was the only one they missed out. Had the money. Knew the players they wanted. Went all in for them.

The losses: Who is the captain? Agarwal? Or maybe Bhuvneshwar Kumar? Righthander heavy batting line-up. Their first-choice wicketkeeper - Glenn Phillips - rarely keeps. And INR 5.25 crore was possibly a bit much for South Africa keeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen.

FULL SQUAD: Openers: Abhishek Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Rahul Tripathi

Middle order: Aiden Markram, Harry Brook, Abdul Samad, Anmolpreet Singh

Wicketkeepers: Glenn Phillips, Heinrich Klaasen, Upendra Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy

All-rounders: Washington Sundar, Vivrant Sharma, Sanvir Singh, Samarth Vyas, Mayank Dagar

Spinners: Adil Rashid, Mayank Markande, Akeal Hosein

Fast bowlers: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Marco Jansen, Kartik Tyagi, Umran Malik, T. Natarajan, Fazalhaq Farooqi.

PUNJAB KINGS

Squad strength: 22 (overseas 7)

Players bought : Sam Curran (US$ 2.25 million), Sikandar Raza (US$ 60,000), Harpreet Bhatia (US$ 48,000), Vidwath Kaverappa (US$ 24,000), Mohit Rathee (USD 24,000), Shivam Singh (US$ 24,000)

The wins: Punjab Kings were touted to break the bank

for an allrounder, and they did so, making Sam Curran the most expensive player in IPL history. Getting Sikandar Raza at his base price is a steal; as a spinning allrounder, Raza is back-up for Liam Livingstone, who is nursing an injury at present.

The losses: Punjab had let go of Mayank Agarwal and could not buy a proven Indian top-order batter. They also didn't strengthen their spin attack with a renowned specialist. At the end of everything, Punjab had INR 12.2 crore left unused.

FULL SQUAD Openers: Shikhar Dhawan, Harpreet Bhatia

Middle-order: Shahrukh Khan, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Atharva Taide

Wicketkeepers: Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma

Allrounders: Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Raj Bawa, Rishi Dhawan, Liam Livingstone, Shivam Singh

Spinners: Rahul Chahar, Harpreet Brar, Mohit Rathee

Fast bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Baltej Singh, Nathan Ellis, Kagiso Rabada, Vidwath Kaverappa

MUMBAI INDIANS

Squad strength: 24 (Overseas 8)

Players bought: Cameron Green (US$ 2.1 million), Jhye Richardson (US$ 180,000), Piyush Chawla (US$ 60,000), Shams Mulani (US$ 24,000), Nehal Wadhera (US$ 24,000), Raghav Goyal (US$ 24,000), Duan Jansen (US$ 24,000), Vishnu Vinod (US$ 24,000)

The wins: Mumbai came in with INR 20.55 crore. They spent 17.5 of it on Cameron Green as a replacement allrounder for Kieron Pollard. Can bat anywhere, but best used at the top of the order. Bowls decent medium pace. "Fits the age profile too," said owner Akash Ambani as Mumbai begin building a young core of players they can count on for the coming years.

The losses: If Bumrah and Archer are fit, this bowling attack looks absolutely awesome. If not, there's trouble, because Mumbai were unable to buy back-ups beyond Jhye Richardson.

FULL SQUAD:

Openers: Rohit Sharma

Middle order: Suryakumar Yadav, Tim David, Dewald Brevis, Tilak Varma

Wicketkeepers: Ishan Kishan, Tristan Stubbs, Vishnu Vinod

Allrounders: Cameron Green, Arjun Tendulkar, Ramandeep Singh, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Hritik Shokeen, Arshad Khan, Duan Jansen

Spinners: Piyush Chawla, Kumar Kartikeya, Raghav Goyal

Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Jofra Archer, Jhye Richardson, Jason Behrendorff, Akash Madhwal

CHENNAI SUPER KINGS

Squad strength 25 players (Overseas 8)

Players bought: Ajinkya Rahane (US$ 60,000), Ben Stokes (US$ 1.98 million), Shaik Rasheed (US$ 24,000), Nishant Sindhu (US$ 73,000), Kyle Jamieson (US$ 121,000), Ajay Mandal (US$ 24,000), Bhagath Varma (US$ 24,000)

The wins: Ben Stokes. Super Kings tried to use Shivam Dube in a multi-faceted role last season but couldn't get the desired results. In Stokes, they have a reliable big-hitter and also a two-to-three overs bowler, if not a full-quota one. In many ways, he fills the void left by Dwayne Bravo's retirement. Kyle Jamieson is also a good purchase but he's coming off a long injury layoff.

The losses: They do not have an Indian back-up wicketkeeper to MS Dhoni, after failing to buy back N Jagadeesan. Devon Conway and Ambati Rayudu are their other options with the gloves. CSK were also unable to buy any proven Indian batters, apart from Ajinkya Rahane.

FULL SQUAD

Openers: Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed

Middle order: Ambati Rayudu, Subhranshu Senapati

Wicketkeepers: MS Dhoni

Allrounders: Ben Stokes, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Bhagath Varma

Spinners: Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana

Fast bowlers: Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Deepak Chahar, Kyle Jamieson

ROYAL CHALLENGERS

BANGALORE

Squad strength: 25 players (overseas 8)

Players bought: Reece Topley (US$ 231,000), Himanshu Sharma (US$ 24,000), Will Jacks (US$ 390,000), Manoj Bhandage (US$ 24,000), Rajan Kumar (US$ 85,000), Avinash Singh (US$ 73,000), Sonu Yadav (US$ 24,000)

The wins: RCB needed an overseas pacer as back-up for Josh Hazlewood, and got Reece Topley. They also bought offspinning allrounder Will Jacks as back-up for Glenn Maxwell, who is recovering from a serious leg injury.

The losses: RCB bid for Harry Brook, Mayank Agarwal, Sam Curran, Cameron Green, Ben Stokes and Manish Pandey, but all of them were eventually bought by other teams.

FULL SQUAD:

Openers: Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Finn Allen

Middle-order: Rajat Patidar, Suyash Prabhudessai

Wicketkeepers: Dinesh Karthik, Anuj Rawat

Allrounders: Glenn Maxwell, Shahbaz Ahmed , Mahipal Lomror, Wanindu Hasaranga, Will Jacks, Manoj Bhandage, Sonu Yadav

Spinners: Karn Sharma, Himanshu Sharma

Fast bowlers: Harshal Patel, David Willey, Mohammed Siraj, Josh Hazlewood, Siddarth Kaul, Akash Deep, Reece Topley, Rajan Kumar, Avinash Singh

GUJARAT TITANS

Squad strength 25 players (Overseas 8)

Players bought: Kane Williamson (US$ 243,000), Odean Smith (US$ 60,000), KS Bharat (US$ 146,000), Shivam Mavi (US$ 731,000), Joshua Little (US$ 536,000), Urvil Patel (US$ 24,000), Mohit Sharma (US$ 60,000)

The wins: They needed an overseas quick to replace Lockie Ferguson; they bought Josh Little, the first Ireland player ever sold at the IPL auction. They needed an Indian quick as back-up for Yash Dayal; they bought Shivam Mavi. Gujarat's top-order batting was shaky last season, and they bought Kane Williamson's experience at base price. With their core already intact, the Titans ticked off a lot of back-up players.

The losses: Gujarat did not bid for a marquee allrounder, because they had only 19.25 crore in the purse, and they already have Hardik Pandya. They managed to buy Odean Smith as back-up.

FULL SQUAD:

Openers: Shubman Gill, Kane Williamson

Middle order: Abhinav Manohar, David Miller, B Sai Sudharsan

Wicketkeepers: Matthew Wade, Wriddhiman Saha, KS Bharat, Urvil Patel

Allrounders: Hardik Pandya, Darshan Nalkande, Rahul Tewatia, Vijay Shankar, Rashid Khan, Odean Smith

Spinners: Jayant Yadav, Noor Ahmed, R Sai Kishore

Fast bowlers: Pradeep Sangwan, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Shami, Yash Dayal, Shivam Mavi, Joshua Little, Mohit Sharma

RAJASTHAN ROYALS

Squad strength: 25 (overseas 8)

Players bought: Jason Holder (US$ 700,000), Adam Zampa (US$ 182,000), Joe Root (US$ 121,000), Donovan Ferreira (US$ 60,000), KM Asif (US$ 36,000), Abdul Basith (US$ 24,000), Kunal Singh Rathore (US$ 24,000), M Ashwin (US$ 24,000), Akash Vashisht US$ 24,000)

The wins: Royals looked like the best team in the last IPL. They didn't win it because a lot of the time they played with four No. 11s. So the one thing they absolutely had to get was an allrounder. Enter Jason Holder. Picking up Adam Zampa at base price was a steal too.

The losses: Went hard for Brook and Nicholas Pooran to get a No. 4 batter. Didn't get either. May have to settle for playing Devdutt Padikkal out of his favoured opening position again.

FULL SQUAD:

Openers: Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal

Middle order: Sanju Samson, Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, Joe Root

Wicketkeepers: Dhruv Jorel, Donovan Ferreira, Kunal Singh Rathore

Allrounders: Jason Holder, Akash Vashisht, Abdul Basith, Spinners: Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Adam Zampa, KC Cariappa, M Ashwin

Fast bowlers: Prasidh Krishna, Trent Boult, Navdeep Saini, Obed McCoy, Kuldeep Sen, Kuldip Yadav, KM Asif

KOLKATA

KNIGHT RIDERS

Squad strength 22 players (Overseas 8)

Players bought: N Jagadeesan (US$ 109,000), Vaibhav Arora (US$ 73,000), Suyash Sharma (US$ 24, 000), David Wiese (US$ 121,000), Kulwant Khejroliya (US$ 24,000), Mandeep Singh (US$ 60,000), Litton Das (US$ 60,000), Shakib Al Hasan (US$ 182,000)

The wins: By procuring David Wiese at a bargain price, KKR now have a back-up for Andre Russell. In N Jagadeesan and Litton Das, they have two wicketkeepers who can also open the batting. Mandeep Singh's experience in the middle order also should serve them well.

The losses: KKR didn't have much money to spend, and the one gap they haven't filled is an Indian fast bowling replacement for Shivam Mavi, whom they had let go and could not buy back.

FULL SQUAD:

Openers: Venkatesh Iyer, Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Middle order: Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Mandeep Singh

Wicketkeepers: N Jagadeesan, Litton Das

Allrounders: Andre Russell, Anukul Roy, David Wiese, Shakib Al Hasan

Spinners: Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Suyash Sharma

Fast bowlers: Shardul Thakur, Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee, Harshit Rana, Umesh Yadav, Vaibhav Arora, Kulwant Khejroliya

DELHI CAPITALS

Squad strength 25 players (Overseas 8)

Players bought: Phil Salt (US$ 243,000), Ishant Sharma (US$ 60,000), Mukesh Kumar (US$ 670,000), Manish Pandey (US$ 292,000), Rilee Rossouw (US$ 560,000)

The wins: Phil Salt and Rilee Rossouw add firepower to an already explosive batting order. In Salt, they also have a back-up wicketkeeper for Rishabh Pant.

The losses: They couldn't get

an allrounder back-up for Mitchell Marsh, who can be prone to injury. They bid up to INR 17.25 crore for Cameron Green but lost out to Mumbai, and dropped out of the bidding for Nicholas Pooran at INR 15.75 crore.

FULL SQUAD:

Openers: David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, Yash Dhull, Phil Salt

Middle order: Sarfaraz Khan, Manish Pandey, Rilee Rossouw

Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant

Allrounders: Ripal Patel, Rovman Powell, Mitchell Marsh, Lalit Yadav, Axar Patel, Aman Khan, Vicky Ostwal

Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Praveen Dubey

Fast bowlers: Anrich Nortje, Chetan Sakariya, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Khaleel Ahmed, Lungi Ngidi, Mustafizur Rahman, Ishant Sharma, Mukesh Kumar LUCKNOW

SUPER GIANTS

Squad strength: 25 players (8 overseas)

Players bought: Nicholas Pooran (US$ 1.95 million), Jaydev Unadkat (US$ 60,000), Yash Thakur (US$ 54,000), Daniel Sams (US$ 91,000), Romario Shepherd (US$ 60,000), Amit Mishra (US$ 60,000), Prerak Mankad (US$ 24,000), Swapnil Singh (US$ 24,000), Naveenul-Haq (US$ 60,000), Yudhvir Charak (US$ 24,000)

The wins: Having let go of Dushmantha Chameera, Lucknow Super Giants needed to get cover for Mark Wood. While they did not get an elite overseas quick, they did add depth with the signings of Daniel Sams and Romario Shepherd. Mohsin Khan, their frontline left-arm seamer last season, has not played any cricket since the last IPL and Super Giants bought Jaydev Unadkat as back up. The No. 3 spot became an issue for them last season, and they spent INR 16 crore on Nicholas Pooran to try and fill that hole.

The losses: Having released Jason Holder, they needed a top-tier allrounder, but missed out on all the big guns in the auction. They tried for Curran and Stokes but were unsuccessful. They also lost Ireland seamer Josh Little to Titans.

FULL SQUAD

Openers: Manan Vohra, KL Rahul

Middle-order: Ayush Badoni

Wicketkeepers: Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran

Allrounders: Karan Sharma, Marcus Stoinis, K Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Kyle Mayers, Krunal Pandya, Daniel Sams, Romario Shepherd, Prerak Mankad, Swapnil Singh

Spinners: Ravi Bishnoi, Amit Mishra

Fast bowlers: Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Mark Wood, Mayank Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Yash Thakur, Naveen-ulHaq, Yudhvir Charak

Ronald Butcher appointed as CWI Selector

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) today announced the appointment of Roland Butcher, as a Selector to the West Indies Men’s Senior & Youth Panels. Butcher is a former England batter who also played for over 15 years in English County Cricket with Middlesex. His appointment was confirmed during

a meeting of the CWI Board of Directors on Monday, December 19.

Butcher was delighted to accept the appointment, “It is a great honour and a privilege, to be given the opportunity to serve West Indies Cricket. I’m eager to get started to work alongside the other members of the selection panels as we look

to ensure the growth and improvement in West Indies cricket at all levels.”

The West Indies Men’s Senior Panel is led by the Most Hon. Dr Desmond Haynes and the Men’s Youth Panel is led by Robert Haynes. The third member of both panels is the respective head coach.

Butcher was the

first Black cricketer to represent England in Test cricket when he debuted against West Indies in his native Barbados in 1981. He played three Tests and three One-Day Internationals. In his first-class career he played 277 matches and scored over 12 000 runs.

West Indies Women end year on low

(CMC) – West Indies

Women ended the year on a low note when their batting spectacularly collapsed, and England Women won by a convincing eight wickets on Thursday to sweep their Twenty20 International series.

Deciding to bat in the final match of the series at the iconic Kensington Oval, the Windies Women were bowled out for an all-time low of 43 in

16.2 overs, and England hardly broke a sweat as they successfully chased the target of 44.

Teenager Dejanaba Joseph, playing only her fourth T20I, was the only batter in the Caribbean side that reached double figures with Freya Davies ending with flattering figures of 3-2 from 2.2 overs, and fellow pacer Alice Davidson-Richards taking a career-best 3-5 from two overs.

“I think we need to look at the positives from the series,” West Indies Women captain, Hayley Matthews, said.

“It’s really good to have the youngsters join the squad, and it’s going to be a big improvement in

bolstering our squad and getting the experience. Yes, the series didn’t go our way, but I believe this is the start of something good.”

The Windies Women batters have struggled throughout this series,

and the preceding Oneday International series in which they were swept 3-0.

The home team laboured to 16 for four after the powerplay, hit only two boundaries in the innings and never

looked likely to seriously challenge the English - all signs that will worry head coach Courtney Walsh ahead of the ICC Women’s Twenty20 World Cup next February 10 to 26 in South Africa.

Butcher is a former England batter who also played for over 15 years in English County Cricket with Middlesex

One Guyana President’s Cup Region Six register first win

Region Five’s Delroy Fraser (right) tries to muscle his way back into possession during his side’s 2-2 draw with Region Three on Thursday night at Albion

By Calvin Chapman

THURSDAY'S match day six of the One Guyana President's Cup football tournament was nothing short of excitement as fans in the Ancient County of Berbice were treated to their first live match at the Albion ground. It was double delight as home

side Region Six earned a wonderful come-from-behind victory against Region Eight in the feature match.

Marcano Martin (45th minute) gave Region Eight the lead in stoppage time with a strike which was also the first goal for Region Eight in the tournament.

Dane Johnson (47th

minute) equalised for the Berbicians just after the break, before Kemo Domingo (63rd minute) handed Region Eight the lead again.

But, a spirited fightback from Region Six who were cheered on by the home crowd encouraged Devon James (86th minute) and Leonard Adams (90+4 minute) to complete the come-

from-behind win.

In the opening match which was contested between Regions Three and Five, Trayon Bobb gave the West Demerara outfit the lead twice, in the 25th and 55th minutes, but Region Five's front-man Ambumchi Benjamin equalised twice to ensure a draw.

Action resumes tomor-

row night at two venues with one match each. Region Seven oppose Region Eight at the Bartica ground from 19:00hrs while Region Four face Region Six at Buxton ground from 19:00hrs as well.

On Boxing Day, Region Two meet Region Five at 18:00hrs while Region Three will match skills with

Region Ten at 20:30hrs. Both matches take place at the National Track & Field Centre (NTFC), Leonora.

The One Guyana President's Cup football tournament is collaboration between the Government of Guyana, the Guyana Football Federation and Kashif & Shanghai Organisation.