Kaieteur News

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ExxonMobil NEWS Yellowtail Project now pegged at US$10B AIETEUR

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Tuesday Edition April 05, 2022 - Vol. 15 No. 14

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 76,825

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Without ring-fencing provisions, Guyana will be shortchanged on every oil discovery - Financial Analyst - says Exxon deal leaves citizens in a “dark abyss of worrisome financial risk”

Auditor General Fisherman flags MARAD for feared paying contractors dead after in advance falling into without proper Corentyne River documentation

Opposition heads to court over legality of NRF Act After approving US$29B in oil projects…

EPA now compiling list of 'competent' consultants to undertake environmental studies The greatest danger this country has ever on Kaieteur faced is NOW under Bharrat Jagdeo!@11:00hrs Radio 99.1/99.5FM

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05, 2022

ExxonMobil Yellowtail Project now pegged at US$10 billion American oil giant, ExxonMobil disclosed on Monday that it has made a final investment decision for the Yellowtail development o ff s h o r e G u y a n a a f t e r receiving government and regulatory approvals.

The project was initially pegged at approximately US$9B but it has now jumped to US$10B. The company's fourth and largest project in the Stabroek Block is expected to produce approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day starting in 2025. “ Ye l l o w t a i l ' s development further demonstrates the successful partnership between ExxonMobil and Guyana, and helps provide the world with another reliable source of energy to meet future demand and ensure a secure energy transition,” said Liam Mallon, President of ExxonMobil Upstream Company.

He added, “We are working to maximise benefits for the people of

Guyana and increase global supplies through safe and responsible development on an accelerated schedule.”

Kaieteur News understands that Yellowtail's production from the ONE G U YA N A f l o a t i n g production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel will develop an estimated resource of more than 900 million barrels of oil. The US$10 billion project will include six drill centres and up to 26 production and 25 injection wells.

ExxonMobil's ongoing offshore exploration in Guyana has discovered a recoverable resource of more than 10 billion oil-equivalent barrels. The company anticipates up to 10 projects on the Stabroek Block to develop this resource.

Development of projects and continued exploration success offshore are enabling the steady advancement of Guyanese capabilities and enhanced economic growth.

Additionally, more than

The ONE GUYANA hull prepares to sail away from China for Singapore.

3,500 Guyanese are supporting ExxonMobil's activities in Guyana, an increase of more than 50 percent since 2019.

In a statement to the press, ExxonMobil said its operations here resulted in expenditure totalling more than US$600 million with more than 880 local suppliers since 2015. Exxon said too, that over 3,000 Guyanese companies are registered with the Centre for Local Business Development, which it founded in partnership with its coventurers in 2017 to build local business capacity and s u p p o r t g l o b a l competitiveness.

ExxonMobil's affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, is the operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest.

On Monday, Hess was keen to note that its net share of development costs,

excluding pre-sanction costs and FPSO purchase cost, is forecast to be approximately US$2.3 billion, of which approximately US$210 million is expected in 2022, US$430 million in 2023, US$585 million in 2024, US$390 million in 2025 and US$295 million in 2026.

“We are excited to sanction our fourth oil development and the largest FPSO to date on the Stabroek Block,” Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Hess said. He added, “We look forward to continuing to work with the Government of Guyana and our partners to realise the remarkable potential of this world class resource for the benefit of all

stakeholders. The world will need these low cost oil resources to meet future energy demand and help ensure an affordable, just and secure energy transition.”

OTHER STABROEK BLOCK PROJECTS The Liza Phase One development, utilising the Liza Destiny FPSO, began production in December 2019; its production capacity is expected to increase to more than 140,000 gross barrels of oil per day following production optimization work currently under way. The Liza Phase Two development, utilising the Liza Unity FPSO, began production in February 2022 and is expected to reach its

production capacity of 220,000 gross barrels of oil per day later this year as operations are safely brought online. The third development on the block at Payara is on track for production startup in 2024, utilising the Prosperity FPSO with a production capacity of approximately 220,000 gross barrels of oil per day.

At least six FPSOs with a production capacity of more than one million gross barrels of oil per day are expected to be online on the Stabroek Block in 2027, with the potential for up to 10 FPSOs to develop gross discovered recoverable resources of more than 10 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

Another deportee reportedly missing Relatives of a man, who was deported from the United States in 2002, are worried about his wellbeing as they have been unable to make contact with him for several years now.

The missing man has been identified as Anthony Harilall.

According to relatives,

contact with the man abruptly stopped some eight years ago. At the time, this publication was informed, he was 35 years old.

The man, reports suggest, was last seen in 2013 walking with a friend along a street in Sisters V i l l a g e , We s t B a n k Demerara (WBD).

Missing: Anthony Harilall One of his sisters, Radica Harilall, revealed that he was deported from the United States in 2002 and, at first, was living with his uncle in Sisters Village. However, as the years passed, his uncle died and he was left there alone. Not long after, it was revealed, relatives lost contact with him. Even his close friends claimed that (Continued on page 15)

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Tuesday April 05, 2022

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Without ring-fencing provisions, Guyana will be shortchanged on every oil discovery - Financial Analyst - says Exxon deal leaves citizens in a “dark abyss of worrisome financial risks” The longer Guyana continues to drag its feet on putting ring-fencing provisions into the Stabroek Block deal, the more it continues to shortchange itself on every new discovery or oil project that comes into being. This is essentially the position of the Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA).

Like Kaieteur News and several other regional and international stakeholders have stressed since 2015, the IEEFA emphasised that ring fencing provisions in the PSA is key, as it would prevent ExxonMobil from deducting expenses associated with

other projects against a producing field.

This is currently taking place with the Liza Phase One Project. In the absence of a ring-fencing provision, ExxonMobil and its partners are able to deduct costs associated with either developing a new oil project or drilling an exploratory well.

All of these expenses can be charged against any project that is in operation such as the Liza Phase One and Two Projects.

In a report titled: “Lack of Ring-Fencing Provision M e a n s G u y a n a Wo n ' t Realize Oil Gains Before

2030s, if at All” by IEEFA's Director of Financial Analysis, Tom Sanzillo, the devastating effects of failing to have this provision are highlighted.

In the 14-page document, Sanzillo notes that ExxonMobil has already received approval of the Payara field and even made discoveries at Yellowtail, Longtail, Uaru, Redtail, M a k o , Tr i p l e t a i l a n d Whiptail in the Stabroek Block. Sanzillo noted, however, that all of the associated costs are being charged against the Liza Phase One Project thus reducing Guyana's share of

the profits.

By IEEFA's estimates, Guyana should receive upward of US$6 billion annually by 2028 or sooner but because of all of these new costs, which neither ExxonMobil nor the government is disclosing, I E E FA ' S D i r e c t o r o f Financial Analysis posits, “Guyana will be shortchanged until the 2030s, if not longer.”

Sanzillo also stressed that the recent announcement of a discovery at the Whiptail site may help ExxonMobil's stock price but said, one ought to be aware of the reality that it ultimately

r e d u c e s Guyana's profits.

He said, Tom Sanzillo, IEEFA, “The lack of Director of Financial Analysis contract protections means that every time business” as it may never see Guyana announces it has t h e p r o m i s e d a n n u a l received more revenue, it is revenues in the billions of a c t u a l l y b e i n g dollars.When the foregoing shortchanged.”From a global issues are placed alongside perspective, Sanzillo said the fact that the true costs of G u y a n a o u g h t t o p a y ExxonMobil's projects, its attention to the fact that the new discoveries, and its dry oil and gas industry is facing holes remain unknown, stiff competition and lower Sanzillo said that the growth expectations. On this S t a b r o e k B l o c k d e a l note, he said Guyana selling essentially leaves the people more oil in an overcrowded of Guyana in a dark abyss of market would be “risky worrisome financial risks.

After approving US$29B in oil projects…

EPA now compiling list of 'competent' consultants to undertake environmental studies

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fter three years of oil production and approving US$29 billion in oil projects, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said it is now compiling a list of competent Consultants to conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) here in Guyana.

The regulator body made this disclosure on Monday while responding to recent articles published in the media.

In its press statement, the E PA s a i d i t n o t e d a commentary which suggested that “EPA did not follow the procedures under the Environmental Protection Act for shortlisting eligible consultants to conduct EIAs. Section 3 (a) of the Environmental Protection Act requires the EPA to compile and amend from time to time with the assistance of internationally recognised environmental groups, a list of approved persons who have the qualifications and experience to carry out

environmental impact assessments. The EPA did not engage internationally recognised environmental groups in screening ERM.” H o w e v e r, t h e environmental agency explained it is currently developing a “fair and robust system for compiling this list of approved persons with appropriate qualifications and experience to conduct EIAs.” In the interim, the EPA noted that it currently approves Consultants on a case by case basis, informed by the respective agency's qualifications and experience in conducting environmental studies, similar to what is required.

To this end, the agency said it is, therefore, not required to screen the proposed consultant(s) with assistance for international environmental groups before approving them.

“Compilation of the list as mentioned in Section 3 (a) of the EPA Act is a separate function, and not directly material to a case-by-case approval. Many of the

consultants approved are members of international Professional Environmental Impact Assessment Associations, which lends credibility regarding their qualifications and experience to conduct EIAs. F u r t h e r, t h e t e a m o f approved consultants in this case covered several areas of expertise and were both international and local consultants with requisite qualifications and e x p e r i e n c e , ” t h e E PA pointed out.

The EPA Executive D i r e c t o r, M r. K e m r a j Parsram, in an invited comment, further explained to Kaieteur News that while the EPA Act states that one of its functions is to compile a list of persons who are qualified and experienced to conduct EIAs with the assistance of international environmental groups, that process is ongoing.

As a consequence, he said that the Permit Holder, in this specific case, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) p r o p o s e d t h a t

Head of the EPA, Mr. Kemraj Parsram Environmental Resources Management (ERM) conduct its EIAs for the four oil projects, approved to date.

Parsram said, “…when projects are being proposed or an EIA is required, the project proponent recommends or proposes a Consultant, and the Consultants have to submit their CVs and so on and then we evaluate those CVs, the team of Consultants making

up that (to ensure) they cover the area of expertise required for the particular EIA.” He added, “That is how we do it right now until we finalise and have an approved list of Consultants.

There are no certifying bodies that do these things, however, when we look at consultants and we look at their CVs, if they are members of professional associations, such as International Environmental Impact Assessment related type associations, then that is an indication of their credibility to perform EIAs and of course their CVs and the types of projects they have done, the years of experience they have doing this and how many they have done and so on, and where else.”

Back in December last year, a group of environmentalists had challenged the independence and credibility of ERM, since the Consultant has been the lone agency to date that has conducted all of the environmental impact studies required for

ExxonMobil's projects, offshore Guyana.

The experts Simone Mangal-Joly, Alfred Buhlai, Vanda Radzik, Janette Bulkan, Denuta Radzik, Jerry Jailall, Alissa Trotz and Maya Trotz wrote to the EPA requesting that it disclose the list of other qualified consultants, from which the ERM was selected to conduct the Yellowtail EIA. In the letter seen by Kaieteur News, the group said, “Please provide the evidence that ERM was shortlisted by the Environmental Protection Agency, among (other) consultants qualified to conduct EIAs, through the prescribed process in the Environmental Protection Act, which requires a review of their credentials and capacity by qualified international environmental organisations (and to) provide evidence of when this was done”.

Additionally, the group reasoned that the EEPGL a p p l i e d f o r a n Environmental Permit for (Continued on page 9)

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05, 2022

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

Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Local leadership in shambles

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pproval of the Fourth Oil Project, Yellowtail, confirmed something beyond the shadow of a doubt. It is that the people we have for local leaders are a collective failure, a total national disgrace where the management of this oil wealth of ours is concerned. They puff themselves up about what they are going to do, and how much will achieve, with this countrys oil bonanza, and then they collapse in a heap, time and again. Like bloated pimps, the slightest challenge comes before them, and the air goes out of them, leaving them looking like pathetic mockeries of what true national leaders really are, fight to be.

Leaders in the PPP/C Government are proud to point to their political/party manifesto and identify one by one the promises that they have kept. The President makes much noise about what he has delivered, the Vice President seeks to convey the idea wherever he goes that he is the saviour of the Guyanese people, but both are guilty of the worst kind of deceptions. Because the things that they point to are small and of passing importance on a relative basis.

Because, on a relative basis, the biggest component, the element with the most lasting meaning for the dreaming peoples of this struggling country, both leaders have been careful to tiptoe around, hedge around, and engage in one delaying tactic after another to deny the Guyanese people what is due to them. It is of more for their oil, our oil.

The PPP/C, the President, and the Vice President at one time or another, and in some form or the other, said that Guyana must get more for her oil. It was and remains the biggest thing in their political/elections manifesto. We mention it because party and leaders have made a living from pointing to selected lines and promises within it that have been fulfilled. But on the thickest line, the one loaded with the most meaning, as in more for Guyanese, they shy away from, they cowardly retreat. It was on renegotiation for this oil.

Leaders in todays PPP/C Government did not have much credibility to begin with, now they have none left. Approval of the massive fourth oil project leaves them in rags. In fact, rags is giving them too much, being too sympathetic, since they have no clothes on, not a stitch. All of Guyana laugh at them, ridicule them, at the pathetic sight they have become. Their noses are stuck first to the big toe of the oil invaders, and then fixed to the backs of foreigners. The oil made Guyanese leaders do that to themselves, so much self-esteem they have left, so much standing they now possess.

One powerful leader made it a principle (even if he didnt think of it so to himself) to highlight renegotiation of this nationally self-defeating oil contract as a work in progress, something of priority. When we are faced with the reality of the approval of the US$10B Yellowtail oil project then there are three sharp but reasonable questions that come to mind. First, what kind of leadership work was contemplated, what was meant by that? Second, where is the progress for locals (and not foreigners led by Exxon) on this oil renegotiation work? And third, how much of a priority has renegotiation been for the two top leaders in this country, when Exxon runs away with another quick victory surrendered? All this is while Guyanese who harboured hopes are left to lick their disappointments and wounds again.

The fourth oil project represented a crossroad. In its simplest form, we had to get more before we gave anything more. It had to be, and was, a national moment of testing, and we failed. The white man is laughing all the way to the bank, making sweet announcements to their investors, and engaging in frenzied private celebrations. On the other hand, the people with a vested interest in this oil, Guyanese, are wringing their hands, and moaning over their fate, the destiny that stare at, and which looks more dismal now.

In any other society, the failing Vice President would be history, a joke to be told and retold. He has just begun.

Can Tabitha Sarabo-Halley provide to the public a breakdown of her party’s membership?

DEAR EDITOR, I like Tabitha SaraboHalley.

There are people in public life that you do not know personally and can still develop a liking for their public image and persona.

In my book, Tabitha is such person. She is educated and intelligent. She is beautiful. She is young and exemplifies our cultural identity in the way she physically presents herself.

I have no doubt that she can become a serious political mind to reckon with in

Guyana.

Tabitha in a Facebook post recently claimed that she asked for discussions in relation to the extracting of two names from the List that will replace two opposition MPs that resigned.

She gives the impression that the PNC ignored her. She also claimed that the APNU has not been included in that decision making..

Mrs. Halley owes opposition members and supporters an explanation as to her status in Parliament. She must tell the Guyanese people

whether she/ her party is a lawful partner of the APNU. She is called upon to now inform us of her constituency, if she indeed has one. What about her party’s structure who is the General Secretary, Chairman etc? In what part of Guyana does she have the highest supporters and members?

Can Mrs Halley provide to the public a breakdown of her party’s membership? The PNC is the largest party in the APNU, if Tabitha Sarabo Halley requests from us information to the same questions

ask of her, we would gladly and promptly provide such to the general public but as she is well aware, the Guyanese people already know those answers.

I genuinely believe that Sarabo Halley has a future in Guyana’s politics but she must hasten in having a real party first. We cannot point out skulduggery in the government while our own may be engaged in same. I await Tabitha’s response.

Norman Browne Social and Political Activist

Imagine Anil, Sanjeev, Devendra, Ralph, Nigel, Timothy for the Guyanese people versus Exxon and friends DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Glenn Lall, on behalf of the people of Guyana, has filed a lawsuit challenging tax exemptions given to rich oil companies which are taking very little risk since all their expenses are being repaid by the people of Guyana from the oil sales. Oilcompanies get 85.5% of the money from all sales and Guyana gets 14.5%.

The Jagans would have been proud of Glenn, fighting for the poor masses. Now comes the Exxon boss saying in court papers, “Glenn Lall has no standing to sue… and Glenn Lall should have approached Court sooner… he sat on his hands for five years.”Nation, the PPP claims the bad, disgusting oil deal was a sellout by the PNC, and promised during the election that they will “review and renegotiate.” Once elected, they reneged on their promise.

They lied to the people.

They were telling the people they will renegotiate, but quietly promising Exxon they will not renegotiate. It was a bait

and switch. Mr. Glenn and KN (and SN) have been the longest, loudest voice for renegotiation, and expending enormous personal resources to do so. He was hoping the Government will initiate renegotiation discussions as permitted by the contract.

Nation, is it Glenns job to file lawsuits against the bad oil contracts or is that the job of the PPP when it was in opposition and now in Government? Why do they refuse to do so? Has anyone been paid off and thats why they refuse to renegotiate?

You decide. Nation, imagine if one morning you get up and see a headline in the newspapers that say, “Anil, Sanjeev, Devendra, Ralph, Nigel, Timothy for the Guyanese people versus Exxon and friends?” Wouldnt that be the most nicest, powerful thing, that a group of our smartest lawyers are standing on the side of the people?

Some of these names were “guardians of democracy” during the rigging. How about if they became “Guard-

ians of the nations oil resources” fighting this oil contract that is rigged against the nations best interests that would keep poor people poor and destitute forever? Some of these lawyers might even want to be Presidentialcandidates in the future. How about doing something big for all the people of Guyana now, so we will shoo you in when you run for President? Which of you will step forward and be the nations hero, at such a desperate time as this?

Would you allow Exxon to beat us in our own Courts?

Dear lawyers of Guyana, which of you would step forward and join the Glenn Lalls defense team for this tax case? If this case is won, Guyana gets more income to help increase wages and salaries for all our vulnerable population - market vendors, taxi drivers, fishermen, security guards, domestics, people working in retail sales and restaurants, small farmers, carpenters, labourers, and others?If they pay their taxes,

we can even become a taxfree country like Dubai, instead of oil companies living tax-free.

Dear UWI lawyers, the taxpayers of Guyana helped to pay for your legal studies at the University of the West Indies. Would you step up and give back now to your country and its poor people being taken advantage of my rich multinational corporations with collusion by our dunces in the Government and Opposition? Would you be the heroes of the people?

I close with the words of the Prophet Isaiah: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send?

And who will go for us? And I said, Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:6-8). Lawyers, which of you will step up, in amicus, and support Glenns legal team? Your nation needs you now? Will history record you as standing with the corruptocrats and oil companies or with the people?

Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall

The de-dollarisation movement DEAR EDITOR, S/N editorial of Friday April 1st, 2020 was instructive in many respects.

In a sense, the editorial was not only timely, it sounded alarm bells on a matter, although somewhat futuristic, should be of interest to all Guyanese.

The issue we have been called to pay attention to has to do with the growth of the de-dollarization movement world-wide in the light of a corresponding growth of digital and crypto-currencies with over 18,000 cryptocurrency businesses world-wide, with 30 million cryptocurrency users around the world in a three trillion dollars global cryptocurrency market that includes Bitcoin, Dash, Ethereum, Maker and Dogecoin, all privately-

owned and powered by blockchain technology but not backed by a Central Authority.

In contradistinction, eight countries in the Eastern Caribbean minus Anguilla have fully-backed Easter Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Digital Currencies (CBDC) using blockchain technology.

According to Kristalena Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, “The history of money is entering a new chapter.”

And the US Federal Reserve in January 2022, published a paper titled; Money and Payments: The US Dollar In The Age Of Digital Transformation. That said, In its editorial, S/N referring to the UK newspaper The i claimed that Russia and China have it in their sights to bring an end

to the domination of the dollar by means of a mixture of digital and cryptocurrencies and alternative payments and that the present tough sanctions over Ukraine while causing serious damage now, will give impetus to the dedollarisation movement which in its turn will bring an end to US superpower status.

However, as if in a pushback, the Biden Administration sensing the inevitability and over-powering surge of digital and crypto-currencies globally and its growth within its borders, made public a Presidential Executive Order laying out a national policy for Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).

The Biden Administration wants an examination of the risks and benefits of cryptocurrencies and to ex-

plore a digital version of the US dollar.

According to a WH.GOV fact sheet published on March 9, 2022, Over 100 countries are exploring or piloting Central Bank Digital currencies (CBDCs), a form of a countrys sovereign currency.

It is not known whether Guyana is among the 100 countries engaged in this exercise.

That aside, the White House Fact Sheet states that Digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, have seen explosive growth in recent years, surpassing a US$3 trillion market capital up last November and from $14 billion just five years prior.

The WH Fact Sheet further states that Surveys suggest, that around 16 per (Continued on page 5)

Tuesday April 05, 2022

The de-dollarisation movement...

From page 4 cent of adult Americans - approximately 40 million people - have invested in, traded or used cryptocurrency.

The White House Fact Sheet went on to state that the US Presidents Executive Order lays out a national policy for digital assets across six key priorities: consumer and investor protection; financial stability; illicit financing; US leadership in the global financial system; economic competitiveness; financial inclusion and responsible innovation.

In the meantime, while we in Guyana are focusing, and quite justifiable so, on a host of pressing economic and social developmental issues, some CARICOM member states, in the absence of a regional policy on digital and cryptocurrencies, are forging ahead with their respective versions of a digital and/or cryptocurrency.

Jamaica for instance, cognizant of the fact that Bitcoins, privately generated by algorithms, are financially unsuitable for its economy and that blockchain technology would be unhelpful, or better put, can be a legitimate

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disruptor that cannot be modified in support of the services sector in the case of payments, health care and cyber security. In the circumstances, Jamaica has gone ahead and rolled out its own digital currency known as Jam-Dex. The Jamaicans made it clear that Jam-Dex is separate and distinct from the approach taken by the Bahamian Sand Dollar and the East Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) rollout of DCash in Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis. Jam-Dex is reportedly, a digital representation of the Jamaican dollar which can be issued to every Jamaican citizen especially those who are now financially excluded.

Further, we are told that JamDex is a Central Bank Digital Currency or Fiat Money which is legal tender unlike cryptocurrency which is privately issued generally, not backed by a central authority and does not perform all the essential functions of money. In this connection, the Jamaica model for phasing in its digital currency is instructive. A Central Bank Digital Currency Implementation Committee (CBDCIC)

was established to help pave the way for introducing a digital currency.

The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) kept the Jamaican people updated at every stage of the implementation process.

I sincerely hope that Guyanese economists, bankers, CEO s of financial institutions and policy makers have taken note, and at the same time, are cognizant of current global developments as well as the far-reaching implications a digital version of the Guyana dollar would have for the entire country. Assuming we will arrive at a BOG-backed digital dollar sooner rather than later, the expectation is that at the appropriate time, national consultations will be initiated on this new frontier in Guyanas financial architecture with a view to drafting consensual legislation that would secure unanimous approval and passage in the National Assembly. Guyanas

economy is entering a new and challenging era.

Potentially, some archaic aspects of our business landscape can be blown away while new and key areas will be built out.

Fresh prospects will emerge for re-invigorating and expanding traditional and nontraditional productive sectors.

The US ambassador hit the nail on the head when according to K/N (2.4.22) she was quoted as saying that “oil revenues must drive economic diversification.”

When all is said and done, it would not be unreasonable to expect, that at some point in time, a measured and calculated approach towards a fully-backed Bank of Guyana digital currency will be floated in anticipation of, and in step with global and regional trends to modernize and expand our central banks minting and issuance processes.

Yours faithfully, Clement J. Rohee

Foreigners ordering around Guyanese DEAR EDITOR, I can manage to get by with leadership brazenness in Guyana now that it has become so routine locally. On the other hand, what I have great difficulty with is the bizarre, the putrid, and the eye-pass of some foreigners who come here and think that they can dictate to us, that they can push us around any way and any time that pleases them.

The article titled, “Court case filed over tax exemptions…Exxon subsidiary says AG legally tasked to defend publics rights not KN publisher” (KN April 2) tells the story, relays the reality.

It is of what the arrogant and supercilious Country Head of Exxon dared to do here, and Guyanese just shake their heads, shrug their shoulders, and move on. I identify the man because he signed the affidavit placed before the Court. Here it is that the Country Head of

Exxon is telling the Hon Attorney General of Guyana how to perform his duties, what should be his priorities, and who he should be representing. The audacity of these foreign scavengers is breathtaking. First, they rob us, then they turn around and insult us by demanding (under legal cover) the right to do so.

There is Exxons local Field Marshall directing legal affairs in Guyana, and firing off an early salvo.

Exxon is so arrogant that its Grand Wizards think nothing of coming here and instruct this nations Chief Legal Officer regarding the manner in which he must proceed.

I acknowledge that the incumbent could be a tad slow and a bit thick, on occasion, but he could do without this helping hand. He doesnt need it, damn it, even though I am hesitant to admit it. I recognize, too, that it is part of (Continued on page 6)

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The stunning hubris of Norman Browne DEAR EDITOR, Norman Browne in his letter to this newspaper yesterday under the headline, ”The PPP has done terrible things to Guyana and does not intend to stop.....attacked the government for the price of plantains and eggs. He said the high price of plantains and eggs is evidence that the PPP is ‘doing terrible things to Guyana.”

Prices have gone up significantly in every country in the world. In America, Canada and in England inflation is nearly 8 %, the highest in nearly 50 years. Most citizens

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Kaieteur News

in every country will quickly tell you it is much higher than that. The reasons are based on the following: (a) the pandemic (b) the supply chain breakdown (c) spike in oil and gas prices because of the Ukraine war and (d) increase in cost of delivery of goods because of rise in oil prices.

PNCR supporters have selective memory. President Burnham’s incompetence and great mismanagement resulted in great food shortages in flour, canned goods, powder milk, bread etc. etc.

All of this while he boasted of making Guyana the ‘bread-

basket of the Caribbean.”

While we were being starved under President Burnham, the rest of the Caribbean was flourishing.

Mr. Browne’s letter had the appropriate heading. The only problem is that it is 40 years too late.

My old boss was an avid PNCR supporter. One day in 1984, she told me, “the only thing they have at Guyana Stores is toilet paper. I do not know what we are going to do with that, since we have no food to eat.”

Regards, Chitrakha Persaud

Foreigners ordering...

From page 5 the divide and conquer legal strategy, part of the clever overall legal deployment, that is being employed to pit Guyanese against Guyanese, and over Guyanese affairs. It is their wealth.

I hope that the AG has that sense of self, that part of the anatomy, to tell these people publicly where they get off, and which speeding sand truck they could go and stand in front of.

If this is allowed to continue, Exxon will soon demand (yes, demand, not approach and plead) that our judiciary follow suit and jump to do their wishes.

Imagine the hubris of these outsiders. They have the President and Vice President kneeling at their feet, and eating out of their hands, and now they rope in the AG. In less than a heartbeat, Exxon has mustered the necessary legal acumen to interpret sufficiently Guyanese laws to direct the Guyanese AG on

the path he must follow to trample upon a Guyanese supplicant before Guyanas Court, who is seeking fairness and justice for all Guyanese citizens.

I did write when this matter commenced that what Guyana was faced with is this bizarre situation of: the Government of Guyana and ExxonMobil v. the People of Guyana, for here we have a PPP Government standing on a war footing, actually declaring war, on its own citizens on behalf of foreigners.

This is becoming more and more undeniable, with Exxon not leaving anything to chance, and clearly dictating, directing, and demanding this countrys Attorney General do its bidding, stand on its side, and get rid of this litigious and vexatious Guyanese thorn in the flesh.

Editor, just when I thought that matters couldnt get more bizarre it did with what Mondays newspaper delivered smack in the kisser: “Glenn Lall should have approached Court sooner…sat on his hands for five years Exxon says” (KN April 4).

This is more than bizarre, it is surreal, almost like a real Guyanese jumbie story.

Exxon first lectures and mentors the AG on how he must go about his business (via court cover, of course).

Then, it proceeds to excoriate and correct KNs publisher for his sloth in acting through filing timely suit.

Methinks Exxon speaks from both sides of its mouth simultaneously.

Who is next in line in Guyana for an oral or written whipping from our newest slave master, Exxon?

Exxon has already commandeered our political leaders, (I believe our parliament also); it has neutralized our houses of worship to the extent that they are no longer prioritizing concerns for the environment; and now it takes aim at our once hallowed Fourth Estate.

The one media entity that stands at the bridge to defend against Exxons barbarianisms, like Horatio of yore, is being attacked, soon to be vilified further, possibly.

I ask my fellow Guyanese where does this creeping tyranny cease?

Is there no pride, no shame, among us? Where is our dignity and self-respect that we allow any corporate savage, any foreign mercenary, any incoming white supremacist to give us the arcing tip of their jackboot?

Where is our rage at these outrageous atrocities, these studied putdowns?

Isnt time that we tell these carpetbaggers where they get off? Isnt past the point that we rise up and confront these 21st century robber barons can come here and try to run over us? And if that is agitation, or worse, then hang me.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

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BL TLUNT.. UNT...B BL Tuesday April 05, 2022

Kaieteur News

Guyana is in dire need of dramatic and wide-reaching change in attitudes.

Yes, Guyana is in need of a revolution that will bring an end to the outrageous actions of some leaders and the nonchalant disposition of far too many citizens who daily witness the despicable in motion.

It is a sad state of affairs when the majority chooses to keep quiet, as a few opt to wage war to ensure that our leaders do not relegate us to a bleak future.

With debt climbing daily and foreigners given the green light to plunder our wealth to the hilt, without measures in place to safeguard the people of this nation, it is clear that swift and drastic change in attitudes is a necessity.

Guyanese, indeed, it is as 'One Guyana’ we must fight to protect our patrimony.

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Tuesday April 05, 2022

Kaieteur News

Opposition heads to court over legality of NRF Act The main Opposition coalition, A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC), has made good on its promise to file a court action challenging the passage of the National Resource Fund (NRF) Act. The action comes almost five months after the highly controversial passage of the NRF Act in the National Assembly.

The lawsuit, which was drafted by the APNU+AFC Shadow Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Roysdale Forde, SC, and attorney-at-law, Selwyn A. Pieters, highlights 'deficiencies' of the procedure undertaken to pass the new law.

The court document, which names the Opposition's Chip Whip Christopher Jones and Union Rep. Norris Witter as the

applicants, and the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir among the respondents, specifically highlights the absence of the Speaker's original Mace – the ceremonial instrument used in the process of passing legislations—during the passage of the NRF Bill.

As such, the Opposition is seeking several declaratory orders of the High Court that the conduct and/or proceedings of the National A s s e m b l y, d u r i n g t h e passage of the NRF Bill on December 29, 2021 in the absence of the Mace, constitute a breach of the Constitution, Common Law, and the Standing Orders of the National Assembly.

Further, the Opposition is asking the Court to declare the holding and or continuation of proceedings of the National Assembly on

Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir December 29, 2021 with the use of a replacement mace without any approved motion to do so as ultra vires [beyond the powers] of the Constitution and the event null and void.

Besides, challenging the legality of the NRF based on

Auditor General flags MARAD for paying contractors in advance without proper documentation The Auditor General's 2020 report has flagged a contract signed by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, through the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) in 2019, where a contractor was paid the full contract sum in advance for the rehabilitation and docking of a vessel, while there was no proof of the status of the works.

The contract was signed under the Ministry on November 27, 2019 for the docking and rehabilitation of the M.L. David P vessel.

According to the AG, Deodat Sharma, the entire contract sum of $12.949 million was paid to the contractor in that same year.

Although the name of the contractor was not provided by the AG, Kaieteur News had reported that during the opening of this project at the National Procurement and Te n d e r A d m i n i s t r a t i o n Board (NPTAB) office in September 2019, two contractors had entered bid to carry out the rehabilitation works on the vessel.

The firms that bid for the MARAD project were the Guyana National Industrial Company Inc. which submitted $14,486,128 and Courtney Ben Contracting Services Limited which submitted $12,949,060.

The AG report states that “The bank guarantee expired since 15 January, 2020. As a result, the Department was

not in a position to levy on the said bank guarantee, should the contractor default.

In addition, documentation certifying the percentage completion of work was not seen.” As a result, the AG noted that this is a clear breach of the payment schedule of the contract.

Moreover, the Auditor General went on to explain that in August, 2020, the Department stated that the works had not yet started, even though, one year had elapsed after the final payment was made. Up to the time of reporting in September 2021, the report said that evidence was not submitted to indicate the status of the works.

In response, the Ministry explained that “The Head of Budget Agency stated that no maintenance records for the M.L. David P. vessel are available for the years 2019 and 2020.

However, maintenance records are now in place.

In addition, MARAD had intended to have the vessel docked in 2019; however, exigent circumstances prevented the execution as planned.

This was not done to breach any regulation, but was committed out of necessity.”

The Audit Office, therefore, recommended that the Head of Budget Agency submit the logs for audit.

The AG report also

highlighted a similar instance whereby a contract of $27.157 million was signed for the docking and rehabilitation of the MT Setter vessel where the full contract sum was again paid to the contractor in 2019, but up to the time of the AG report in September 2021, no documentation on the works were seen.

This project was being executed under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure as well. “The entire contract price was paid to the contractor in 2019. It was observed that a bank guarantee was not provided for payments made, as documentation certifying the percentage completion of work was not seen. This is a clear breach of the payment schedule of the contract,” the Auditor General stated.

Similar to the ML David P. vessel, works on MT Setter in August 2020 did not start even though one year has elapsed after the final payment was made.

The report explained that in response to the findings, the Ministry said that the Head of Budget Agency stated that no maintenance records for the M.T. Setter is available for the years 2019 and 2020.

However, a maintenance log is now in place.

As such the Audit Office recommends that the Head of Budget Agency submit the logs for audit.

the procedure undertaken in the National Assembly, the APNU+AFC is also contending that the NRF Act constitutes a breach of fundamental human rights of Witter, who is the second named applicant in the matter.

According to the Coalition, Witter is entitled, as part of his fundamental human right, to take part in the conduct of public affairs of Guyana. This right, the party contends, is guaranteed

by Article 154 A of the Constitution and Article 25 of the Covenant of Civil and Political Rights.

However, according to the party, Witter's rights were trampled upon when the Executive [Government] failed to hold a public consultation on the most vital piece of legislation with its citizenry, of which, Witter is a part.

The Opposition Party continued that “in accordance with Article 154 A of the Constitution, which mandates that human rights enshrined in International Conventions set out in the Fourth Schedule to the Constitution, the National Assembly, as the Legislature of Guyana in legislating a NRF Bill for Guyana, is required and obligated by the Constitution and Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

APNU+AFC Shadow Legal Affairs Minister, Roysdale Forde, SC to engage in consultation with the stakeholders and citizenry of Guyana.”

Further the Coalition said, “...The Executive in designing and formulating a NRF policy for Guyana is required and obligated by the Constitution and Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to engage in consultation with the stakeholders and citizenry of Guyana.”

Consequently, it noted that the Parliament of Guyana in enacting a NRF Act for Guyana is required and obligated by the Constitution and Covenant on civil and political rights to engage in consultation with stakeholders and citizenry.

Moreover, the party is seeking a declaration that the Government failed to engage

in any or sufficient consultation with the citizenry and stakeholders as required and mandated by the Constitution in the design of the NRF policy.

Meanwhile, as it relates to the first named applicant, Jones, who is a Member of Parliament (MP), the party is seeking a declaration that his rights to a legitimate expectation that the National Assembly would function, operate and conduct its affairs in accordance with the standing orders were contravened.

Further, the party is asking the court to declare that Jones' human right to political participation as guaranteed by Article 13 and or 154 A of the Constitution and Article 25 of the Covenant Of Civil And Political Rights was contravened by the refusal of the National Assembly to consider the Petition submitted by himself and other citizens, prior to the passage of the NRF Bill.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e coalition wants a declaration that the decision of the Speaker to permit and allow the passage of the NRF Bill without affording or permitting any MP, inclusive of Jones, to participate in the debate on the Bill is ultra vires of the Constitution, (Continued on page 17)

Fisherman feared dead after falling into Corentyne River A Berbice fisherman is feared dead after he reportedly fell into the Corentyne River on Sunday, April 3, 2022 sometime between 13:00hrs and 14:00 hrs.

Still missing and feared dead is 42-yearold Shunny Jagessar of Lot 56, Albert Street, No.79 Village, East Berbice C o r e n t y n e .

Kaieteur News was informed that Jagessar had left to go fishing with his 50-year-old boat captain in the vicinity of Orealla Village. The captain, who has since been taken into police custody, reportedly told police that their vessel was on the eastern side of the river bank and he was on the bow of the boat while Jagessar was on the stern driving it, when he suddenly heard a splash in the water. The boat captain said when he checked, he saw Jagessar in the water and in a matter of minutes he went under. He said he made checks but did not f i n d h i m .

Meanwhile, the fisherman's aunt, Nalini Jagessar disclosed that the boat captain showed up at her home at No.79 Village and informed her that Shunny had fallen overboard and that he tried to save him but he couldn't.

She said that her nephew had left to go (Continued on page 9)

Feared dead, Shunny Jagessar

Tuesday April 05 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Infrastructural spending is no silver bullet Jagdeo does not get it! It is not good enough to merely indicate that all Guyanese will benefit from the country’s oil wealth.

Nor does it suffice to point out that all Guyanese will benefit because government will invest in infrastructure and education and health.

Jagdeo has to be able to make the case that such investments will indeed redound to the benefit of the Guyanese people.

The Guyanese people by now ought to realise that they will benefit so long as the economy expands. The economy will grow even if it is in auto pilot; it will grow even in the absence of progrowth policies, as the five years of the APNU+AFC proved.

So Guyanese will benefit regardless of what the PPP/C does. But what Guyanese want to see is not only a sudden and steep increase in their standard of living but also a decline in inequality.

Jagdeo is pressing for infrastructural development.

But who has benefited the most from the past 30 years of massive investments in infrastructure. The contractor class has been the prime beneficiary of government’s infrastructural development

spending.

True, roads have been built, and bridges constructed. But for every road and bridge, there is another which has gone into disrepair or which remains unattended.

Jagdeo is supposed to be an economist. As such, he ought to know by now that while there is high correlation between infrastructure and growth, that a 2020 study done by the World Bank indicated that whether or not infrastructure boosts growth depends on the stage of development of the country.

At present government spending on infrastructural development continues to boost the growth of the construction sector and its contribution to Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Indeed, were the government to halt infrastructural spending, the construction sector’s contribution to national output would be diminished.

The experience with public spending in oil economies in developing countries should forewarn Guyanese of the danger of the approach which the present government is taking. The international economist assessed that several countries had embarked on ambitious investment projects between

1975 and 1978, after oil prices spiked in the early 1970s and created a windfall.

He observed that in all cases, GDP growth per capita worsened after the big push of oil money into the economy. He noted that growth per capita dropped sharply in Trinidad and Tobago and Ecuador, whilst output per capita even dropped in Venezuela, Nigeria and Bolivia in the period following the investment booms.

In the case of Venezuela, he pointed out that the country spent 40 percent of its windfall on public investment.

But we do not need to go as far as looking at the experience of other countries.

But Guyana’s own experience is instructive. Despite the billions of dollars which have been pumped into public infrastructure, Guyana hardly produces anything which is globally competitive.

The country is still predominantly a primary commodity exporter. Oil production is not going to change that.

Most of the studies on relationship between infrastructure and inequality establish a positive link between infrastructure and reduced inequality. But in Guyana, the evidence is not as clear-cut.

Fisherman feared dead after falling into...

From page 8 fishing on Saturday just after lunch and was expected to return within four days. The tragedy, the woman said, has left the family in a state of

worry.

The man's relatives have filed a report with police and they who have been assisting with a search as part of an investigation.

Just over two weeks ago another fisherman from West Coast Berbice reportedly fell into the Berbice River. To date his body has not been recovered.

EPA now compiling list of 'competent'...

From page 3 Exxon's fourth project, the Yellowtail Development on April 1, 2021. On May 9, 2021, the EPA indicated that an EIA was required.

On June 28, 2021, the ERM was approved as the consulting firm to carry out the study, and on September 10, 2021,

the EPA issued the Final Terms and Scope for the Yellowtail Development Environmental Impact Assessment.

One month later, in October 2021, the ERM submitted its EIA document for the statutory 60-day public scrutiny process, which commenced on October 15, 2021.

In this regard, the experts questioned how the ERM could have possibly conducted a credible EIA study, according to statutory provisions of the Environmental Protection Act, within one month of the issuance of the Final Terms and Scope for the study.

Dem Boys Seh…

De zoo now reopen De zoo reopened yesterday after it bin close fuh almost two years. Is a lang time dem animals nah see visitors. So dem wah going to de zoo gat to be careful dat dem nah excite dem animals too much.

Years ago, a man did walk in de zoo and try fuh sneak in de lion cage. De lion maul he.

Another time a jaguar get out de cage and dem had to call in de popo.

Dem kill de jaguar.

Long ago, dem boys used to mek jokes bout people going to de zoo.

Dem used to ask dem people wah went how come dem allow dem out.

But nowadays, yuh gat to be careful with dem jokes.

People getting touchy, as we see during de Oscar Awards.

A rock solid man get a slap across he face fuh mekkin’ joke bout a man wife.

So all dem wah wan mek joke bout people going to de zoo, gat to be careful.

Things lil different dese days.

De zoo gat some smart animals. One time a man and he son went to de zoo.

Dem see a sign which ad-

vertise dat if yuh tap de elephant pun he head, he gan tell yuh, yuh age.

De lil boy give de elephant a little tap on he head. De elephant stomp he foot six times.

“Wow,” de boy say, “That’s right I am 6 years old.”

De father decide fuh tap de elephant on he head.

A moment later de elephant fart and stomp twice...

“Excellent, dat is right,” said de father, “I am farty two!”

Talk half. Leff half.

As was reported in last Sunday’s edition of this newspaper, an international economist has pointed to increased inequality in Guyana. He noted that the Gini index (a useful proxy of inequality) increased from 46 percent in 2006 to 52 percent in 2019. Yet there was significant infrastructural investment by the government during this period. Despite this investment, the gap between the rich and the poor widened.

People expect to benefit from the oil revenues. But they are also unrealistic. No one expects that in a neo-liberal economy that everyone will benefit equally. Obviously some will benefit more than others. But this should not translate to mean that the poor will get a few mints while

the rich will get a bag of gold.

And this is the danger of a mad rush to spend the oil revenues on public infrastructure. There are no guarantees that the buccaneer class, which is aligned to the PPP/ C, will not cream off most of the benefits, leaving only the crumbs for the poor.

But the leader of the AFC warned about another danger of infrastructural investment.

He mentioned that it is one of the sectors in which corruption is rife.

Corruption can lend itself to the dispossession of the working class.

There can be no comfort in Jagdeo’s promise that all will benefit. Unless he can convince this nation that the poor will benefit more than the oligarchic class, he should not

be given the licence to proceed with his government’s transformative infrastructural agenda. Such an agenda can spell disaster for Guyana as it has elsewhere.

Jagdeo’s words, therefore, that all Guyanese will benefit from the oil sector will not convince anyone that the poorest of the poor will be lifted out of poverty or that inequality will be reduced.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday April 05, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Convenient invisibility of the usual suspects is sickening I meet people all the time who complain to me about the ugly minds of people who speak selectively on issues in Guyana while basking in their reticence on disturbing nastiness that occur with increasing frequency.

The de facto opposition leader and the head of the PNC, has demanded the removal of GECOM's chair, Justice Claudette Singh.

Let's rewind the tape to April, 2020. Three prominent female personalities holding important portfolios in society were interviewed by the Guyana Chronicle for their views in the role of Ms. Singh during the election fiasco (please see my column of Saturday, October 17, 2020.)

One woman said she was proud of Singh taking the right decisions in CARICOM and the criticisms against her were

misogynistic. The second woman told the paper that Singh was a brilliant woman with class and integrity. The third lady wax lyrical on Singh's competence.

Fast forward the tape to April 2022. The PNC leader is requesting the removal of Ms. Singh. But he did not echo the sentiment in isolation. He gave his reason – she votes with the three PPP commissioners thus she is not impartial (his word).

There is a realpolitik dimension to this stance by the opposition leader.

Those are the things and actions the world expects from people out of power and who need fiery rhetoric that can expand their support base. It is logical and understandable though unacceptable to countless others.

What you do not expect is for citizens who belong to associations and organisations proclaiming

their patriotism, support for good governance and their neutral role in politics shutting their mouths when dangerous factors raise their sadistic heads.

The contention of the opposition leader is highly absurd and is the stuff that should meet with instance dismissal because the accompanying research that his supporters need to see is missing. The usual suspects (TUS) when they write their letters in the newspapers, send off their press releases, and offer their critiques on Zoom panel discussions are quick to warn us not to target the messenger.

But this is exactly what the PNC leader has done and the invisibility of TUS is visibly sickening. The contention should not be the lady but the topics she votes on. The PNC leader must prove his case by a research conclusion on the subjects she has voted on with the

PPP commissioners.

First, what are the issues the PPP commissioners tabled that found voting support for Ms. Singh? Are these matters inimical to the conduct of a free poll? If they are, then yes, the chairperson is biased. But why would the PPP representatives compose papers to be accepted by GECOM that destroy the basis for holding a free and fair poll. Why would a strong favourite to win future elections go that route?

It does not make sense thus, the call for the removal of the GECOM chair is unacceptable.

The chairperson did not have a voting pattern that favoured the PPP commissioners after the election was concluded on Monday, March 2. If she did, then the president, who was sworn in on August 2, should have been president since March 3. What the GECOM

chairperson did, whether by mistake or otherwise, was to Frederick Kissoon allow a party that lost r ejecting the continuation of an election to stay in power five months after it Ms. Singh also took aim at the new Chief Election was defeated.

Against this background, Officer (CEO), Vishnu the PNC leader is out of Persaud, who he claims is place to want the chairperson biased too. But one would to be removed because of have thought that such a bias. But there is a bigger statement would have question at stake here, and achieved some modicum of here is where the ugly minds credibility if in the same o f T U S s h o u l d b e breath he had uttered a few c o n d e m n e d . Wi t h t h e words about the conduct of incessant calls for power Persaud's predecessor, Keith sharing, there has to be moral Lowenfield.

Is the PNC leader telling and political responsibility of opposition politicians if the voters who turned up on they are to be trusted with a March 2, 2020 that Mr. Lowenfield was a less biased power-sharing formula.

The seminal question is CEO? So will TUS send a what makes humans in this letter to the newspapers with country think that there isn't 45 signatures supporting Ms. going to be a repetition of the Singh? What do you think?

(The views expressed in dismissal demand if the new chairperson doesn't vote the this article are those of the way the PNC wants him/her a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the to.

The PNC leader, in opinions of this newspaper.)

Tuesday April 05 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05, 2022

Police operations poised for improvement …as UG completes Phase 1 of 'Train the Trainers' course The University of Guyana (UG) through its Centre of Excellence for Teaching and Learning (CoETal), through a multiyear agreement with the Guyana Police Force, recently completed phase 1 of a Train the Trainers programme for the re-tooling of the Police Academy.

The programme, which was chaired by UG's Director of Events, Conferences and C o m m u n i c a t i o n , M r.

Jainarine Deonauth, was launched on February 28, 2022 and saw 75 Police Training Officers being equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge in pedagogy and andragogy.

According to a release UG shared, the 'Train the Trainers' course, which commenced on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, and ran for two weeks, consisted of 13 modules. Each module provided trainers with a range of knowledge, skills and competencies related to instructional design, instructional delivery, and assessment, both face-to-face and online. The course aimed to increase the teaching repertoire and build the teaching capacity of the GPF trainers, thereby providing them with strategies, concepts, knowledge, and

skills that they can implement in the classroom.

At the launch of the course, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, expressed profound gratitude to the GPF for entrusting UG with conducting such training with its officers.

“O u r g r o w in g partnership marks the beginning of many of the training programmes we will work with for the Force. This is a training programme we've taken very, very seriously; the role that has been given to us as the nation's state university and also looking at the entire state of the art of what Guyana is likely to have to deal with in the future and understanding that security, safety, and resilience are the centre of anything that we have to do for securing our future,” the Vice-Chancellor posited.

F u r t h e r, t h e Vi c e Chancellor gave kudos to the GPF for pushing and piloting this initiative. Professor Mohamed Martin said, “When we work to train human beings and to give them the skills, attitudes, belief systems, structures, and other tools and techniques that they need to grow, we are really making a

huge investment not only in our lifetime for ourselves but also in the nation's future. So, I really wish to commend the senior administration of the Police Force.”

Deputy Commissioner (Administration) (ag.) of the GPF, Calvin Brutus, who is in charge of training and development at the GPF, noted: “It is imperative that we have a cadre of trained instructors to deliver the modules to our policemen and women. We are working on improving our training as we have recently gotten the approval to recruit and train 700 new members for the Guyana Police Force.”

Providing an overview of why the course is fundamental to the development of the GPF, the Deputy Commissioner (ag)

said: “Training is critical because it drives the direction of the Force, it improves the security for the members of the country and it improves our working relationship with each other.

But, more importantly, at the end of it, we expect that members of the Force who depart the organisation will have life skills that they can use beyond the Guyana Police Force and be productive citizens to build our country.”

U G ' s D e p u t y Vi c e Chancellor (Academic Engagement), Professor Emanuel Cummings noted that it was an excellent initiative for the university and the GPF to collaborate on the project. Professor Cummings noted, “Our institution is not here just to

provide four or five-year programmes in Degrees but also to offer short-term courses that are relevant, that will create an opportunity for the GPF and security forces in general.”

“Deputy Commissioner, I applaud you, that you were able to have discussions with the wider university community that has brought us to this juncture… This course will certainly help your trainers to develop and to deliver quality education and quality training programmes to your recruits, and by extension, help them to be better prepared to deliver effective services in the security system,” Professor Cummings said.

The development and design team was led by UG's Director of CoETal, Dr.

Charmaine Bissessar. She led other experts from UG including: Dr. Tamashwar Budhoo, Mrs. Bonita Hunter, D r. Tr o y B r o w n , M s .

Claudette Phoenix and Professor Stafford Griffith in designing and delivering the training course.

Instructional delivery topics included: Instructional Strategies, Policing in a Culturally Diverse Background in the Guyanese Setting, Reflexive Praxis, Bloom's Taxonomy, and Teaching Adult Learners, among other things. The course consisted of three levels –the recently completed level is the beginners' level.

Participants for this course were selected by the GPF based on the university's criteria.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05, 2022

PAGE 13

Disabilities should not separate persons from each other - Minister Manickchand says as MoE and GPL launch Autism Awareness Month The Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) last week launched Autism Aw a r e n e s s / A c c e p t a n c e Month 2022.

The launch began on Friday last with an Autism Walk which began at the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) and ended at Main Street Avenue in front of GPL's office where a formal programme to launch the month of activities was held.

According to a Ministry of Education press release, Autism is a developmental d i s a b i l i t y t h a t a ff e c t s communication and behaviour. The Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand said during her remarks that disabilities should not separate persons from each other.

She said that the efforts of the State must include the f o r m a l a n d o rg a n i s e d establishment of systems

within institutions that allows Guyana to benefit from the skills and talents of persons living with autism.

“Every time we prevent persons with differences to contribute to development, we are taking away from that person the opportunity to be all that they can be,” the Education Minister noted.

She said that autism awareness must continue so that the wider society can understand what it is and how it can be managed.

Minister Manickchand said that this must be taught through the curriculum in schools and the training offered at the Cyril Potter College of Education.

Further, she said that it requires the home, the church, the school, the work environment and the country as a whole to actively address how persons with disabilities can participate in school, the workforce and the country's development as a matter of policy and human right. Chief Executive

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand sharing a moment with the pupils and teacher of Learners' Academy from Region Six. Officer of GPL, Bharrat Dindyal said that he hopes the 'light' that was lit to raise awareness about autism, continues to shine for the rest of the year and into the future. Mr. Dindyal said that he hopes that the launch can galvanise conversation and see initiatives focused on addressing the issue.

Moreover, he said that the company's participation is intended to be a part of the power company's anniversary celebrations this year, but pledged the company's continued

Substandard wiring caused fire that destroyed pensioner's home - GFS The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has concluded that the fire on Sunday that destroyed the Lot 55, First Alley Wismar, Linden Region 10 home of 66-year-old Joel Brewley was caused by substandard electrical wiring.

The GFS was alerted to the fire around 11:44hrs and responded with two fire trucks from the Linden Fire Station.

Fire fighters were able to contain the blaze but the twostorey wooden and concrete structure was burnt to the ground.

A nearby building was also scorched.

Investigations conducted by the fire service later revealed that the fire was caused by an electrical power surge which caused a substandard wiring network of the home to overheat.

As a result, the thermostat of a refrigerator inside the home failed and caused its compressor to explode igniting, a flame which then came into contact w i t h n e a r b y c o m b u s t i b l e The pensioner's destroyed home. materials thus starting the fire.

partnership in highlighting and raising awareness about autism.

National Special Education Needs (SEN) Officer, Savvie Hopkinson said that the observance celebrates the resilience of those affected by the disorder and supports causes that promote awareness of the developmental condition.

She said that Autism Month is being observed this year under the theme: “Inclusion in the Workplace: Challenges and

Opportunities in a PostPandemic World.”

Ms. Hopkinson added that with the growing confidence that the worse of the COVID-19 pandemic is passing, there can be an examination of whether there have been reversals of the gains made in addressing the effects of autism. “As always, the wellbeing of our students must be our first and primary concern.

This Autism Month must therefore serve to refocus educators, reenergise parents and mobilise communities,”

she remarked.

Director of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), Mrs. Quenita Walrond-Lewis said that NCERD's SEN Unit is thrilled to lead the charge in heightening awareness of autism. She said that the activity is a signal that the agency and the Ministry are gaining ground to champion not just awareness, but longer strides to inclusivity not only in education but also in creating pathways for inclusion in the workplace.

PAGE 14

Tuesday April 05, 2022

Kaieteur News

450 Region 2 women empowered through Human Services WIIN initiative

A section of the WIIN participants on graduation day.

Minister Persaud hands over a certificate to a graduate who participated in a Care for the Elderly programme.

By Romario Blair

O

n Wednesday, last, 450 women from Region Two were empowered to delve into the business arena after graduating from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security's Women's Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN).

The WIIN programme, which was launched in 2021 by the Ministry, is aimed at boosting women empowerment.

It includes short courses

in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), graphic designing, video editing, photography, interior decorating, and child and elderly care.

Senior Training Officer, Sanjay Pooran revealed that 93 percent of the applicants from Region Two managed to complete the programme.

The pass rate, he said, was 96 percent – the highest in any region thus far.

He revealed, “WIIN trained persons earlier, this today, 96 percent of the persons from this Region

who participated in the programme passed…WIIN just didn't happen by chance; emphasis and planning was placed on content and quality.”

Pooran explained that the WIIN programme is a demonstration of government's commitment in making vocational and technical education programmes available in remote location.

Vice Chairman of Region Two, Humace Oodit, who also graced the graduation ceremony, said that the

graduates should continue to embark on capacity building, while meaningfully boosting the region's capacity.

He went on to note, “This is just the beginning of what is expected in the future.

We should all take the opportunity and use these programmes to boost our region, to build capacity...this is a move that will end in you realising your ultimate potential.”

In her feature address, Human Services Minister, Vindhya Persaud assured that

no effort has been, nor will be, spared in empowering women. She also encouraged the participants to explore entrepreneurship, instead of constantly seeking employment.

“WIIN, as an acronym,” according to the Minister, “was chosen because it represents everything that I wanted women to see; the ability to cross the finish line.

We w a n t e d t h i s programme to be as close to perfect to you leaving, knowing that you have

something with value; every certificate you leave with, is accredited.”

The Minister also spoke of the WIIN app which was developed by her Ministry.

As she directed focus to the app, Minister Persaud said, “The WIIN app allows you to advertise your business for free.

We are putting that app in the hands of the wider public.

As you start your journey in business, utilise the WIIN app to ensure you have the highest visibility in the country,” the Minister urged.

Over 50 women-owned businesses showcased at 'We Lift Essequibo' The first-ever 'WE LIFT Essequibo', held at the Anna Regina Town Council on Wednesday last, received overwhelming support from the Cinderella County's residents.

According to a government release, the initiative, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and the

Regional Gender Affairs Committee (RGAC) of Region Two, showcased over 50 of the county's most promising female-owned businesses.

Minister of Human Services, Dr. Vindhya Persaud officially launched the event by showering praises on the women for their innovations and contributions towards the

development of the country.

Minister Persaud urged them not to confine themselves in boxes but rather push to achieve anything they set their minds on, as she reiterated the various opportunities the Ministry is providing for citizens including its Women's Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) training programme.

Minister of Human Services, Dr. Vindhya Persaud engages some of the owners of the female-owned businesses

Minister Persaud went on to reflect on discussions that suggested that the objective of world gender equality, would not be achieved in 2030 and would not be achieved for another 700 years.

However, Minister Persaud reckoned that she would like to see this become a reality as soon as possible

in Guyana with the Ministry providing extensive training in the areas of shared responsibilities, empowerment, technical vocational skills and other areas relating to gender equality.

Minister Persaud said, “To achieve gender equality, it starts with every person understanding that there is

space for each person, there is a place for every voice and there is an openness for every contribution big or small…The Ministry of Human Services is passionate about the support we give to women and men, this event is called WE LIFT and has come to Region Two not by coincidence but by (Continued on page 17)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05, 2022

PAGE 15

Student testifies of UG's outstanding support network G

iven the fact that we live in an environment that is rapidly changing, the University of Guyana (UG) has been strategic in ensuring that its students are equipped with skills and knowledge that would enable them to cope well.

As such, UG announced in a release that it is striving to ensure that its critical support network, for students and citizens' success, is provided to everyone who enters the university to further support their goals, dreams and aspiration.

Te s t i f y i n g o f t h e university's support network is 46-year-old Rennita Bentick. Bentick is among the 2,600 graduates of Class of 2020/2021 who proudly walked the virtual graduation stage when the university hosted its series of graduation ceremonies last month.

The La Grange, West Bank Demerara resident, who passed with distinction, graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Management from t h e S c h o o l o f Entrepreneurship and

Business Innovation (SEBI).

Overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude, she believes that in spite of the many challenges she faced, the support she received during her time at UG contributed significantly to her success. “The last four years have been very transformative. The knowledge I have gained and the content that I was exposed to have positioned me for success and expanded my vision and thinking,” she said with pride.

But according to Bentick, although she had her fair share of personal struggles, she was determined that no obstacle would come in the way of her successfully completing her studies at UG. This was in light of her belief that this path would allow her to secure a better future.

She detailed the challenges she faced coping with her studies and caring for her differently-able child.

She explained, too, that while attending classes she had to schedule her time around dropping off and picking up

her child from the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre.

This, she noted, caused her to be late for classes at t i m e s . H o w e v e r, s h e highlighted that her classmates and lecturers were very supportive and without them it would have been very difficult to finish her studies.

“There is a support network at the University of Guyana that I found particularly in my peers who would ensure that I had a seat and the notes I missed when I was running late; my academic advisors were a WhatsApp message away and were always willing to help and guide me when I needed same.

My Dean, who was very proactive and interested in the wellbeing of his students and lecturers, I could have reached out to for assistance at any time. I also made use of the library resources even after midnight at times and was never afraid to ask questions or for help when I needed it.

In essence, I took charge of my educational success,”

Ed. Ministry embraces technology to simplify access to its services In order to simplify the services that it offers, the Ministry of Education has announced that all documents, which would normally be 'hand-delivered' to its 21 Brickdam, Georgetown Human Resources Department, pertaining to upgrade in status, transfer, secondment, etc., should be emailed to the following address: hr@moe.gov.gy.

In a release the Ministry noted that as soon as the email is sent, an automatic receipt will be sent to the sender's email to acknowledge receipt of the

mail.

To process emails faster, the subject of the email should include the region the teacher is from, the nature of the matter and the teacher's name, for example, “Region 4 Transfer John Smith” or “Region 9 Upgrade in Status Harry John”.

Also, the Ministry advised that each document sent will be processed within three working days.

However, if more time is required, the Human Resources Department will communicate with the concerned party and advice of such.

This system, the Ministry noted, seeks to reduce the need to travel to Georgetown to deliver a letter. Additionally, using a digital system will ensure that correspondences are no longer misplaced.

It is expected that a similar system will be implemented by all Departments of Education across the country in a short while.

“This new system,” the release added, “is the vision of the Minister of Education in simplifying access to the services offered by the Ministry.”

Another deportee reportedly...

From page 2 they had not heard from him since then.

It was initially thought that he had gone somewhere to work, but as the years r o l l e d b y, r e l a t i v e s , neighbours and friends started to become worried because Harilall never returned home neither made contact with them.

His relatives, who reside overseas, said that they have

tried to file a missing person's report. However, they were advised by police ranks that one of them should travel to Guyana to do so officially.

In the meantime, the family is seeking the public's help to locate the missing man. They are also offering a reward to anyone who can assist them with locating him.

Persons with credible

information concerning Harilall's whereabouts are asked to make contact with relatives on telephone numbers +1 (570)-895-1465 and +1 (347)-870-6125.

Just last week, Kaieteur News reported that a $1M reward is being offered by the relatives of another missing deportee, Ricardo Rockey DeFrance. He had reportedly disappeared in January 2020.

Bentick explained.

The career banker, who aspires to one day become an educator, added, “SEBI provided a platform for me to develop and grow and I no longer feel stuck. I am filled with confidence and exude many competencies in many areas of my life.

Importantly, I feel wellpositioned to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves. I am currently furthering my studies and have experienced career advancement.”

Bentick expressed immense gratitude to those who supported her academic journey and contributed to her success.

“A journey could never be taken in isolation and so I recognise first of all the Almighty God for health, strength, and wisdom, and some people that made it possible…

Gayann Russel-Persaud for insisting that I apply to the University of Guyana, my mother, Wilhelmina Dos Ramos who faithfully took

care of things for me at home, my son, Ray, who shared the pick-up schedule and who also graduated with me this year, and my 'A-Team; Sabita Rampertab, Imran Boodram, and Andrew Horatio. You all were a major part of my support base. Thank you!”

Bentick offered words of encouragement to current students. “As I reflect on the

Ms. Rennita Bentick

past four years, an African proverb comes to mind, it goes like this: 'Where you sit when you are old depends on how you stand in your youth.'

Today is the day to stand, today is the day to make the best of every opportunity that comes your way. Success does not happen by accident; you have to be intentional about it.”

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

FOR WANTED RENT Minibus driver for 40 route.

Contact:683-0558.

VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable.

Contact:649-0956.

2001 RAV 4,in good condition not working.Price $800,000.

Call:648-9248.

4 patients in COVID-19 ICU, 1 new case

On Monday, the Ministry One (1) welder to do grill of Health reported that four work. Call 625-5763. individuals are currently Supervisor/counter clerk, patients in the COVID-19 preferably live in(female 25- Intensive Care Unit at the 40yrs) for bar & shop. Tel:610- Infectious Diseases Hospital, 3974.

1 child friendly female to assist with kids and household chores.Contact:653-7776 preferably from E.B.D. Female to take care of an elderly male between the ages of 25 to 40. Accommodations provided.Call or WhatsApp 1-868-683-1528.

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040.

Specialized repairs/service refrigerator, washing machine, pressure pump, stove, treadmill,dryer, filteration system, deep fryer.Call:6949733.

Dried carilla bush,soursop leaves,lemongrass,mango leaves (anyquantity). Call: 609-8281/693-3003.

One female to work in Interior,must be 18yrs & over.

Tel:674-9999.

1 live in to work in George town.Must be 18yrs & over.

Tel:674-9999.

Male to work in Interior.Must be 18 & over.Tel:686-2201.

VACANCY FOR SALE 2-1 acres land@ blankenbu rg W.C.D. Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251.

1-40 acres land@Linden Highway.Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251.

One excavator operator and one grader operator to work in Diamond.Contact:6321118/647-4161.

Experienced roti/puri cook, kitchen assistant, cleaners.

Apply at Hack’s Halaal Restaurant,5 Commerce st.

Billing clerk & Porters, location Stabroek Market. Experiences is an asset. Contact: 661-1000,226-9800.

FOR RENT Prime Business spot to rent,Vreed-en-Hoop Junction. Preferably pharmacy, bookstore,potstore etc.

Tel:600-1559.

2 bedroom,1 bathroom downstairs for 60k.Call between 912am or 1-5pm Mon-Sat. Call:671-5773.

PROPERTY FOR SALE PFS on the main road MC Doom E.B.D 120x50.Call:6130007.

Maintenance man & room attendants,30-50 yrs old.233 South Road Lacytown or 2252304.

Accounts Clerks.Quickbook knowledge & accounting experience.Survival Shopping Complex,173 Sheriff St,Camp belville Georgetown. Tel:6092995.

Valid Drivers License(with motor lorry & van).Tel:6092995,email:surviv al. human res ources@ gmail.com.

Western Union CSRS. Experience will be a plus,tel:6092995,email:sur vival.human resources @ gmail.com.

VACANCY Male Clerical Asst,age 25-30 yrs.Must have Secondary Education & license is required. Tel:225-8131/2236488.

For 1 Hauler Truck Driver.

Contact:611-7088 for more info.

One bulldozer operator to work in Great Diamond. Contact:632-1118/647-4161.

Inventory Clerk.Survival Shopping Complex tel: 6092995,email:surviv al. human re sources@ gmail.com.

One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing.

Keyfood Trading,Mc Doom village.

Pitmen,Serviceman,Hauler Operator for interior location.

Applicants must be experienced. Call:231-2250.

One female cleaner.Apply at:Lens 136 Sheriff St C/Ville Georgetown.Contact:2272486 or 227-1511.

Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

Further, in its latest dashboard, the Ministry’s data shows that one new case was recorded in the country within the last assessed 24hour period. The new case, which was detected in Region Four, has brought the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 63,273.

The dashboard also shows that eight persons are in institutional isolation, seven are quarantined institutionally and 68 are in home isolation. To date, a total of 61,967 persons have recovered from the virus.

Tuesday April 05, 2022

Tuesday April 05, 2022

PAGE 17

Kaieteur News

4 children hospitalised after being stung by bees

F

our children – ages one, two, five and 11 – are hospitalised at the Skeldon Public Hospital in a stable condition after they were stung by bees that were reportedly disturbed in an empty lot on Sunday morning.

The mother of the children, Sunita Charran, 30, a housewife, who was also stung multiple times, was treated at the hospital and discharged but her children were kept under observation in the hospital, as they were vomiting and exhibiting other signs of discomfort.

According to a neighbour, Fazika Bux, who assisted in rescuing the family, the children were all inside their home with their mother preparing to head to church, when the bees swarmed the domicile and attacked the family.

According to Bux, the eldest child ran out and alerted the neighbours who made attempts to rescue the family. ”She come out and run back in the house with the children, and the neighbours help to smoke out the place and they were calling her to come out but she was still inside the house,” Bux said.

She added, when they eventually got into the house, the woman had wrapped her

babies up but their heads were exposed and the bees had stung them multiple times on their heads and other places. After approximately 20 minutes, the family was removed from the house and rushed to the Skeldon Public Hospital where they were treated and k e p t u n d e r observation for a few hours.

They were subsequently released and sent home but by Sunday night, after police had v i s i t e d t h e s c e n e , the children had to be taken back to the hospital and were admitted as they had started vomiting and feeling ill.

Kaieteur News understands that the Guyana Livestock Development Authority assisted in removing the bees’ nest on Monday and efforts are being made to clear the land that is overgrown with thick vegetation. Efforts were also made to remove the derelict machinery that the bees had built their nest in.

This publication was told that the Regional Commander and team visited the area and spoke with the owners of the derelict vehicles that were parked in the bushes, which is situated near the family’s home.

According to Bux, the family is extremely poor and as such persons have been

Three of the children who were stung by bees

The house where the family lives and the plot of land with think bushes where the bees’ nest was found

assisting them with hampers.

She added that the family lived elsewhere but they were

evicted thus she (Bux) and her husband had helped to get the house for them to stay

in. They have been living there for the past three weeks.

Anyone desirous of

assisting the affected family can make contact with Bux on 338-1245

Costa Rica elects political newcomer Chaves as president (BBC NEWS) Economist Rodrigo Chaves has won the presidential election in Costa Rica, preliminary results suggest.

The 60-year-old ran on a promise of shaking up traditional party politics in the Central American nation.

With almost all votes counted, he had a lead of more than five percentage points over exPresident José María Figueres.

Turnout was the lowest in decades as voters expressed

discontent with Costa Rica’s struggling economy.

José María Figueres, who ran for a second term as president after having held the top job from 1994 to 1998, admitted defeat once his rival’s lead had become too big to be overcome.

Many Costa Ricans said they were looking for a break with the politicians of the past, a trend which went against Mr Figueres, who comes from one of the country’s most influential

Opposition heads to...

From page 8 democracy, and inclusive governance.

The Coalition has also asked for a declaration that the executive's failure to constitute the Human Rights Commission, a Commission established under Article 154 A of the Constitution, is a contravention of the Constitution.

As a result, the party wants a series of orders declaring that for the reasons set out in its application, the Natural Resource Fund Act 2021 Act No. 19 of 2021 and the sub sequential orders and regulations made pursuant to it, is null and void and of no force and effect.

Consequently, the

APNU+AFC wants an order declaring that all actions taken by anyone, including the Minister of Finance, upon the date the Act came into force, is null and void and of no force and effect.

Added to this, the party wants an order declaring that any constitution of any board under the Natural Resource Fund Act No.19 of 2021 is null and void and of no legal effect.

Further, the Opposition is asking the Court to grant any other order necessary to ensure that the NRF be replenished to the extent that any sums of monies in the said NRF that were disbursed and or taken out, pursuant to the passage of the NRF Act.

political families. While Mr Chaves is not entirely new to politics - he did serve in the outgoing government of President Carlos Alvarado as economy minister for six months - he has emphasised his plan to break with what he calls “privileges” of Costa Rica’s established political parties.

Following an at times acrimonious campaign, Mr Chaves struck a conciliatory note as his win became clear.

“Tonight, let’s set aside the

party colours that can easily divide us,” he told his supporters. “I humbly ask you that we unite beneath the blue, white and red of our national flag.”

Supporters of Mr Chaves took to the streets of the capital, San José, to celebrate their candidate’s win. One of those celebrating told Reuters news agency that there was a “hunger for real change” in Costa Rica. “We need new faces to save the country,” the man said.

Rodrigo Chaves spent almost three decades at the World Bank

Over 50 women-owned businesses showcased...

From page 14 design, in collaboration with the RGAC of Region Two. If you lift someone up, you elevate them beyond barriers, limitations and everything that can prevent them from everything they can be, WE LIFT stands for 'Women Empowering Leading Innovating and Flourishing Together.”

The event also saw patrons enjoying an Indian dance by Lalita Saytoo, along with musical renditions by Joan Henry, Wendell Walcott and Jonica Walcott.

The audience moved and sang along as the Regional Men's Group performed an acrostic, using every letter of the word 'woman' to describe what a woman means to them.

Inspirational messages were shared by Poonwattie Jaigobin and Vanessa Butters.

Mayor of Anna Regina, Rajendra Prabhulall expressed his delight for the work Minister Persaud and her Ministry have been doing to aid in the development of Essequibo.

“This is great, a lot of women-owned businesses came out, lots of excitement in the commercial sphere, this is truly fantastic in helping women with their business and empowers them so they can be their own bosses. I am very happy for this and I commend the effort of Minister Persaud, she has been doing really well and the next time I am sure it would be bigger,”

the Mayor said.

Qurian Spellen, who operates the only female-owned gym in Essequibo, Qurian Body Beautiful Gym, already serves approximately 50 women.

She, however, noted, that the event provided her a platform to network more and engage a lot of people who were not aware of her gym and its tailored programmes for women.

Swetlana Kingston, proprietor of Aunty Otia's creation, explained that it is initiatives like these that help women in business to explore and engage others to grow their business further.

Kingston operated in a maledominated environment from

her schooling where she was the only female in the Technology stream before working for 14 years at a power company where she again was the only female.

“It was a really wonderful initiative from the Ministry of Human Services and I trust that this will be an annual event that can grow larger in the years to come,” Kingston said.

Korishma Jaigobin said, “it has been a really great initiative to see women can support women, especially to see the Minister being here, it shows that we are capable of doing anything, I was overwhelmed to see so many strong and inspiring women across the coastline.”

Tuesday April 05, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05 2022

Tuesday April 05 2022

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Kaieteur News

Rahul leads with the bat as Super Giants beat Sunrisers SportsMax - A solid performance with bat and ball saw the Lucknow Super Giants seal a 12-run win against Sunrisers Hyderabad at DY Patil Stadium.

Super Giants captain KL Rahul (68) and D e e p a k Hooda (51) were the standout performers in the Lucknow innings as they set their opponents 170 to win.

Sunrisers had looked in a strong position to chase down that total at 143-4 with just under three overs left, only for a late collapse to see them fall well short.

The Super Giants were three down within the first five overs, with two wickets for Washington Sundar (2-28) in his first seven balls, claiming Quinton de Kock and Evin

Lewis for a single run each, then, immediately after hitting a big six, Manish Pandey (11) could only find Bhuvneshwar Kumar from Romario Shepherd’s delivery to leave them 27-3.

Hooda came to the crease and rescued things with Rahul, putting on a partnership of 87 before the former fell to Shepherd, with Thangarasu Natarajan (2-26) taking the late wickets of Rahul and Krunal Pandya (6) to seemingly limit Lucknow.

However, Abhishek Sharma (13) and Kane Williamson (16) failed to eat much into the target, and despite solid efforts from Rahul Tripathi (44) and Nicholas Pooran (34), Hyderabad ultimately fell short, with Jason Holder (3-34) taking three

wickets for just three runs in the final over.

Skipper leads the way with the bat Rahul and Hooda were the only batsmen for the victors to score 20 or more runs, but that was all that was needed after their efforts, with the captain hitting six fours and one six.

Hooda struck three fours and three sixes, and grabbed his second halfcentury of the IPL season so far. Bowling attack comes to the fore This was a classic case of the batsmen setting a defendable total, but then the bowlers having to earn their place by seizing control back late on.

Avesh Khan impressed with 4-24 from his four overs,

KL Rahul scored his 50th T20 half-century •Apr 03, 2022•BCCI including taking both Sunrisers openers, while Krunal (2-27) and Holder performed crucially at the death.

Odyssey Sightseeing...

Tuesday April 05 , 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you have grievances about your love life, Aries, today is the day to speak up. Indeed, today requires only total honesty and forthrightness in all areas. You can expect to confront "the other,".

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This is the ideal moment to address once and for all the questions that have been on your mind for the last three weeks, Libra. Pay particular attention to questions that touch on your sentimental side.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Are you thinking of switching careers or traveling to the other side of the world, Taurus? Or perhaps you just want to pull a “Greta Garbo” and stay at home alone with the shades drawn tight.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Like your compatriots, Scorpio, something is coming to an end concerning the lack of confidence you have in yourself.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You're likely to find people somewhat irritating today, Gemini. It's as though nothing is good enough, and nobody seems to know exactly what he or she wants.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) When you woke up this morning, you may have felt an oppressive mood hanging in the air. Unfortunately, that haze of misunderstanding and conflict is likely to last all day.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) The mood you're in today is the stuff of which memorable encounters are made.

You'll be wary at first, perhaps even somewhat hostile, to anyone who dares intrude on your freedom.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) More than ever before, you'll feel as though it's time to take matters into your own hands and build your own career future.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) It's possible that the last few weeks have allowed you to gain a little clarity on certain questions you may have about your vocation, Sagittarius.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) These past three weeks were rather good for your equilibrium, Capricorn. It was just a matter of getting a bit more involved in life than is usual for you, and showing what you're capable of.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) It isn't always pleasant to have to question oneself, Aquarius, but this is the main objective of today's planetary energies - to launch you into new adventures.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today isn't a day for meditation, Pisces. The planetary energies are asking you to step outside of yourself and get back into the world again.

From page 23 executives will give an account of the sponsorship, which all teams will benefit, from Meten-Meer-Zorg on West Coast to Wales on the West Bank of Demerara.

The Tournament will be played with white balls as West Demerara is set to return to play in the Demerara senior 50 overs Tournament.

Odyssey Tours offers day tour packages to the Essequibo River and Mainstay Resort. They are located at 171 A Light Street, Bourda Georgetown. For further info do check out their facebook page and website.

Romario Shepherd sent back Deepak Hooda at a critical juncture•Apr 03, 2022•BCCI Scores: Lucknow Super Giants 169 for 7 (Rahul 68, Hooda 51, Natarajan 2-26, Washington 2-28, Shepherd

2-42) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad 157 for 9 (Tripathi 44, Pooran 34, Avesh 4-24, Holder 3-34) by 12 runs.

PAGE 22

Tuesday April 05 2022

Kaieteur News

Director of Sports in Suriname for discussions on sports cooperation Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle is in neighbouring Suriname where he is holding meetings with his Suriname counterpart Gordon Tjouw Ngie Touw and team to com-

mence planning of the Inter Guiana Games and other possible sports cooperation.

Ninvalle met with Ngie Touw and team, which included Ms. Linsey Raijman,

Mr. Wilfred Gallant (both members of the IGG comitee Suriname).

This follows on the heels of a promise made by President Dr. Irfaan Ali to have the

Inter Guiana Games resuscitated. Ninvalle has told the media that discussions have been fruitful so far and moving a pace.

Several stakeholders have been briefed and indications are promising for a possible restart of the games as early as this year. President

Chandrikapersad Santokhi during a visit here in 2021 had highlighted several areas of cooperation between the neighbouring countries including the human resource along with Sports, Culture, Education and Technological exchanges as key to forging greater unity, trust, and un-

derstanding among the peoples of the two countries.

Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana have over the years competed in Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field at the IGG with the addition recently of Chess and Badminton.

B. Shivnauth Construction supports WeCare representative B. Shivnauth Construction has supported the WeCare Inter Region Softball competition which is set to resume on Sunday.

The entity recently presented a cheque to the organisers who expressed gratitude to the sponsors.

According to the organisers the tournament was put on hold due to the COVID 19 restrictions and the competition is set to conclude this weekend.

Regions 6 Warner Brothers already secured their place in the final.

The playoffs will see Adventure and Golden Fleece Sports Club from region 2 and Speed Boat Softball Team and Slayers from region 3 battling for a place in to the final.

The games get underway at 09:00hrs.

Alicia Shivnauth of B. Shivnauth Construction handing over sponsorship to a WeCare representative.

Tuesday April 05 2022

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

GCB commends President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s leadership and vision CPL Carnival Cricket Seen as Boost to Cricket Development and Tourism The President and Executive members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) have commend His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfan Ali President of the Republic of Guyana and his cabinet on his recent disclosure that the CPL finals will be held in Guyana over the next three years. Also, that seven preliminary matches are scheduled to be played leading up to the semifinals and finals in a release to the media.

The board noted that, President Ali announced this historic achievement at the launch of CPL 2022 held at the National Stadium, Providence on Wednesday March 30, 2022.

He highlighted the fact that the event would present a Caribbean flavour of cricket and carnival for two weeks, with Guyana showcasing its full cultural repertoire together with a variety of equal tourist attractions.

He predicted that the splendor of the occasion will be unrivalled internationally within the tenets of the mod-

President Dr. Irfan Ali

Minister Charles Ramson jnr.

GCB President Bissoondyal Singh

ern game of cricket.

That’s why government has seen it fit to invest heavily in sports and the national budget reflects the unprecedented 2.2 billion dollars allocated for sports in Guyana for 2022.

This emphasis on sport has catapulted the development initiative in Guyana and is expected to enhance the social aspect of society with its contribution to career pathway, healthy lifestyles, and an avenue away from society ills. Apart from the ca-

reer pathway for cricketers, the game provides for several cricket related jobs.

Further, this historic announcement on the playing of CPL semi-finals and finals over the next three years, will enable Guyana to explore avenues for sport tourism.

Additionally, with the expected influx of foreigners to Guyana for the matches, Guyana will benefit economically from the historic CPL investment.

The approach by government to ensure these CPL

matches are assigned to Guyana over the next three years, underscores government’s comprehensive understanding of the value of sport to society.

This budget allocation would provide sport organizations with the requisite resources necessary to realize the transformation of most sports in Guyana from an amateur status to a professional sport.

The GCB’s President Bissoondyal Singh, in an invited comment, praised His

Exclusive - ATP warns of stricter action for misconduct MUMBAI, (Reuters) Tennis officials will dish out stricter punishments for oncourt misconduct, the ATP warned players in an internal note yesterday as the men’s governing body also simultaneously reviews its guidelines to clamp down on repeat offenders. Australian maverick Nick Kyrgios was fined $60,000 for a series of angry outbursts at the Indian Wells and Miami Open events, with many observers saying he should have been disqualified. German Alexander Zverev was thrown out of a tournament in Acapulco in February after smashing his racket repeatedly against the umpire’s chair following a doubles defeat. “Effective immediately and as we head into the clay court swing, the ATP officiating team has been directed to take a stricter stance in judging violations of the Code of Conduct,” ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi said in the note, seen by Reuters.

“Additionally, we are also undertaking a review of the Code, as well as the disciplinary processes, to ensure that it provides appropriate and up-to-date penalties for serious violations and repeat offenders.”

Kyrgios was fined $35,000 after his fourthround loss to Jannik Sinner

at the Miami Open during which he criticised the umpire and smashed his racket.

The incident followed an outburst at Indian Wells where Kyrgios lost his temper after losing to Rafa Nadal, smashing his racket to the ground, which then bounced up and almost hit a ball boy. He was fined $25,000 for it.

The Australian earned over $350,000 in prize-money from the two tournaments after competing in both singles and doubles.

Olympic singles champion Zverev was handed a suspended eight-week ban for his expletive-filled Acapulco tantrum.

The ATP came under fire for what many pundits and fans perceived to be soft punishments from the governing body and in the note Gaudenzi told players “we all have a role to play to uphold the reputation and integrity of our sport”.

“The first three months of the season have seen an unusual frequency of highprofile incidents involving unsportsmanlike conduct,” Gaudenzi, a former Italian professional player, added.

“These incidents shine a bad light on our sport. This conduct affects everyone, and sends the wrong message to our fans, especially young fans.”

Excellency President Dr. Ali for the historic announcement on the CPL tournament decider to be played in Guyana.

He opined that this is a significant achievement, and an indication of the value government is placing on sports.

His Excellency President Dr. Ali is obviously keen on having all sport disciplines employ systematic ways to administer sports in Guyana and has indicated that the characteristics of transparency, accuracy and integrity should be guiding principles of sport administrations.

Dr. Irfaan Ali’s government has witnessed several positive changes in cricket administration.

From March 2021 a new executive took the reign of the GCB. This change continues to see cricket being administered in a structured and progressive way with the three county boards now working more harmoniously to realize common goals and objec-

tives. President Singh once again commended Hon. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson for his unwavering commitment to the development and promotion of sports in Guyana.

He said that Minister Ramson’s intervention has been instrumental in resolving outstanding issues within the administration of cricket and that his continued support for cricket has ushered in new purposeful working relations between government and the GCB. The GCB looks forward to the continued development of national stadiums and the proposed National Academy which will lay a significant platform for the identification and development of players across the country.

The GCB views the Academy as an integral measure in developing the mental, technical and skill acquisition of potential players with the impetus to excel at the regional and international levels, the release informed.

PAGE 24

Tuesday April 05 2022

Kaieteur News

Port Mourant Secondary, Central Corentyne Secondary triumph The teams assemble prior to the start of the action.

Port Mourant Secondary and Central Corentyne Secondary schools recorded victories when the semi finals of

the Janet Jagan Memorial School Girls Windball Cricket tournament were contested recently at the Albion Sports

Complex Ground.

Lower Corentyne Secondary made 23-1, batting first. Port Mourant Secondary replied

with 24 without loss, Tandica Leech made 14. Tagore Memorial Secondary scored 274, taking first strike. Nikita

Lochan took two wickets.

Central Corentyne Secondary replied with 33-2. Nikita Lochan came back with the

bat to hit 20. The programme was declared open by Region 6 WPO Organiser Lucille Ayana Ruby.

Four-time champions Trinbago Knight Riders acquire Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran for 2022 Hero CPL SportsMax - Four-time Caribbean Premier League Champions Trinbago Knight Riders have signed Jamaican all-rounder Andre Russell and middle-order batsman Nicholas Pooran for the 2022 season.

The CPL announced yesterday the seismic developments as it released the franchise pre-draft retentions and new signings for the coming season. There were two predraft windows for the 2022 season. In the first window, each team could retain up to five Caribbean players with a maximum of two from the top five salary spots.

In the second window, teams were then given an opportunity to sign two more local players. These could be new signings from those who were not retained by other teams or players who appeared for that team in the previous season. The Trinidad-based franchise has also retained captain Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales and Tion Webster. Meanwhile, defending champions St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, have brought in mercurial opening batsman Andre Fletcher and Darren Bravo to bolster their batting while retaining 2021 captain Dwayne Bravo, Evin Lewis, Sheldon Cottrell, Sherfane Rutherford and the hero of last season’s final Dominic Drakes. The St Lucia Kings have acquired the ser-

Romario Shepherd vices of explosive batsman Johnson Charles and Mark Deyal while retaining 2021 Player of the Tournament Roston Chase, Kesrick Williams, Alzarri Joseph, and Jeavor Royal.

Over in Barbados, the Royals have picked up the talented Obed McCoy and reenergized Devon Thomas and have retained their captain Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers, Hayden Walsh, Oshane Thomas and Nyeem

Shimron Hetmyer

Young. Two-time champions, Jamaica Tallawahs have signed the exciting allrounder Fabian Allen and opener Brandon King while retaining Rovman Powell, Kennar Lewis and Shamarh Brooks. The Guyana Amazon Warriors added Keemo Paul and Gudakesh Motie while keeping Shimron Hetmyer, Odean Smith, Romario Shepherd, and Chandrapaul Hemraj. The Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) finals will be hosted by Guyana for the next three years, starting in 2022. This is the first time the Hero CPL final will be held in Guyana and this long-term staging agreement will see the culmination of the tournament also taking place in Guyana in 2023 and 2024.

This season, Guyana will host seven group games, three knockout matches and the Hero CPL final which will take place on Friday, September 30 at The Guyana National Stadium in Providence.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday April 05, 2022

PAGE 25

UEFA U-16 football tourney...

“We have the ability,” says Coach Vurlon Mills Coach Vurlon Mills

Some of the action from the training session.

G

uyana will create history in under two weeks when the National under-16 boys' youth team travel to Eastern European nation and former Soviet Republic state; Moldova, to play in a UEFA sponsored tournament.

In the tournament, which was made possible by the UEFA Assist programme, Guyana will face the hosts, Andorra and the Faroe Islands in the four-nation tourney and from April 1319.Although the Guyanese lads are inexperienced, their head coach is backing them 100%.

Speaking to Kaieteur during a training session over the weekend at the National Training Centre (NTC), Providence, Coach Vurlon Mills, who has had his lion's share of success in coaching at the youth level in recent years locally, explained that there isn't much to separate European youths to our local ballers.

He posited that, “Player for player, skill for skill, we have the same ability as them (European players)… the only difference may be is that they do the simple things more consistently, which is also something that we are working on as well.”

Mills, a former Golden Jag, revealed that he had worked with a lot of the players in the squad before and that bit of history is very important, especially when looking at the time factor to prepare for the assignment.

Fifteen-year-old S h a k e e m We l c o m e o f Timehri Panthers and the GFF East Bank Academy, spoke briefly with Kaieteur

Sport as well and stated that he wants to follow in the footsteps of successful Guyanese footballers, “It's a dream come true for me to represent my country and I want to make the best of this opportunity.

I am aiming to perform well and hopefully spotted by a scout so that I may follow in the steps of Omari Glasgow (to eventually make it to the MLS).”

Meanwhile, Shemaiah Samuels of Hi Stars, who is also part of the squad, echoed the same sentiments of wanting to put his best foot forward to help his team perform well with one eye on a potential scouting engagement.

The GFF and their coaching staff will also use this tournament to help prepare for the Concacaf under-17 Championships which is scheduled to kickoff this August.

Odyssey representative Maureen Codrington presents the cheque to Avishkar Ramgobin of West Demerara CA.

Odyssey Sightseeing tours sponsors 40-over tourney in West Demerara O d y s s e y S i g h t s e e i n g To u r s Guyana Inc., 40 Overs Cricket Tournament is set to commence on A p r i l 1 7 i n We s t Demerara. The launching was done

yesterday at the Company Wharf at Look Out, Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

At the launching ceremony, the Company representative Maureen Codrington handed over the Cheque to the West Demerara Cricket Association P.R.O Avishkar Ramgobin in the presence of Odyssey Tours Staff.

Codrington said that the Tour Company is

very excited to be on board with this tournament and looking forward to very competitive and disciplined cricket.

Speaking on behalf of the West Demerara Cricket Association President Azeem Khan said, the board is very thankful to Odyssey Tours and promises that the newly elected (Continued on page 21)

Four-time champions Trinbago Knight Riders acquire Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran for 2022 Hero CPL Trinbago Knight Riders have signed Jamaican all-rounder Andre Russell and middle-order batsman Nicholas Pooran.

s t r o Sp

Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle (second from left) makes a point during discussions with his Suriname counterpart Gordon Tjouw Ngie Touw and team Ms. Linsey Raijman and Mr. Wilfred Gallant.

Director of Sports in Suriname for discussions on sports cooperation Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.