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Peru to strengthen NEWS laws to deal with oil spills, protection of citizens AIETEUR

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Wednesday Edition April 13, 2022 - Vol. 17 No.16 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 66,200

ExxonMobil warns 3rd oil project could drive away fish, unleash toxic effects p. 3

Pres. Ali offers no solution to high Berbice Bridge toll ...says open to dialogue with shareholders, but can't take over bridge

Contract Foulis signed for woman dredging of stabbed to Pomeroon death by River mouth husband

Economist flags ‘reckless spending’ on infrastructural projects ...urges stepped-up scrutiny of Amaila Falls p. 2

Corrupt projects are emptying the treasury so you will never get an increase of salary. @11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Economist flags ‘reckless spending’ on infrastructural projects ...urges stepped-up scrutiny of Amaila Falls The current public investment climate in Guyana is worrying to Economist, Elson Low, who believes that the reckless spending of the administration must not be allowed to easily slip by.

In fact, Low believes that one does not need a microscope to see the wrong decisions the government has been making when it comes to spending from the public purse, as several

Economist, Elson Low decisions to invest in various infrastructural projects remain controversial. One such example, according to the Economist, is the Amaila Falls Hydropower project.

Although the government will not be investing into the project with upfront costs, Guyanese will have to carry the burden of that project, and after 20 years, the ownership would be transferred to Guyana from the Chinese contractor, China Railway First Group.

The 165 megawatt (MW) project is pegged at US$700 million. It is being pursued under a Build Own Operate Transfer (BOOT) model, in which Guyana would be buying electricity from the hydro project at an estimated cost of about 7.7 cents per MW. However, at the recent International Energy Conference and Expo, hosted in Guyana, Head of the Guyana Energy Agency ( G E A ) , D r. M a h e n d e r Sharma has indicated that Guyana currently receives enough sunshine every two hours, to power the country’s present electricity demands for an entire year.

To t h i s e n d , s o m e analysts hold the view that investing in solar power may have been the cheaper, more reliable route for Guyana. In this regard, Elson Low, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in political Science and Economics from a United States College, Amherst said, that the government’s spending on large infrastructural projects must be subject to proper scrutiny.

“People often say that you can’t eat roads but what I would do is be a bit more specific to say that we have in this country a history of poorly executing our large

national infrastructure projects, and so I think that those need to be subject to much more scrutiny. I have spoken at length about the Amaila Falls and even using the government’s own estimates for other projects, solar projects, you could generate the same amount of electricity for almost half the cost so Amaila is an example of really really poor planning by the government and a very poor project,” the Economist told this publication in an exclusive interview.

Low added that the Amaila Falls project is one in particular which, if not properly managed, will not result in the type of benefits it could have, especially if Guyana were to be more efficient in the way it invested. He signaled, “So as a result, you will see a lot of spending, but not a whole lot of benefit to the population, if we have that type of poorly planned infrastructural projects by the government.”

The financial analyst also observed that the price of numerous government projects remain questionably high, even though the government said it reduced and removed taxes on some building materials. “Yes, the government has reduced taxes on construction materials and so on but if we have procurement fraud which will be an inflation of the prices, it doesn’t really matter if the government has reduced its taxes, those prices will be high anyway and will go into the pockets of corrupt officials,” he explained.

In this regard, he urged that the public be vigilant when it comes to identifying possible inflated contract Continued on page 3

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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ExxonMobil warns 3rd oil project could drive away fish, unleash toxic effects Oil vs. Fisheries - Pt. 1

Environmentalists locally and abroad have over the years, placed much of their attention on the debilitating effects an unmitigated oil spill from a n y o f E x x o n M o b i l ’s projects can have on Guyana’s fishing industry.

I n a l l o f i t s Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) submitted to the relevant authorities, the American oil giant’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) has admitted that an oil spill from its approved Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two, Payara and Yellowtail Projects, has the potential to cause significant damage to the commercial fishing industry.

But even with no oil spill, fishermen have been complaining, especially in

recent times, that their catch is dwindling at worrying rates. Dreading the destruction of the industry, they have since appealed to the government to conduct a study to understand how and to what extent, EEPGL’s oil production and development operations are affecting their main source of income.

Interestingly, one may not have to await the conclusion of government’s independent study for a glimpse of the effects fishermen are yearning to understand.

Deep within the EIA of the Payara Project are blatant admissions from EEPGL that this third oil development which will produce over 220,000 barrels of oil per day, can have an impact on the migratory pattern of the local

Economist flags ‘reckless...

From page 2 sums and demand that same be investigated for procurement fraud.

He said, “I believe that any project which raises red flags should automatically be investigated for procurement fraud. That is not to say that I believe that these projects are engaged in procurement fraud but that when you see something where the cost seems beyond reasonable expectations, we should enquire what the facts are so that we can prevent procurement fraud, which is estimated to be a significant problem in Guyana by many agencies.”

On this note, Low pointed out that the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) is also yet to be established. That body is tasked with ensuring the integrity in the procurement process. In the absence of such an institution, the Economist drove home his point on the importance of the public keeping a watchful eye on price tags of projects to be funded by the national coffers.

On the other hand, he also argued that the “high-priced”

projects many times are constructed so poorly that they require attention and remedial work within days of completion.

For instance, Low pointed to the University of Guyana (UG) access road which was being rehabilitated by Yunas Civil and Building Construction to the tune of $275.5 million.

He argued that days after the road was completed, evidence of the road sinking was demonstrated, accompanied by a large pot hole.

He said, “It is not satisfactory that they came and patched the road, we need to have proper police investigations into all of these things so that we can know what is going on…what I think that it shows, is that, that is once again an instance where that particular contract needs to be investigated so that the facts can come out, and we can identify whether or not there is procurement fraud. It is well understood that no road should develop pot holes or other such defects only a short while after it is constructed.”

fish stock. It also warned that toxic effects can also be unleashed on these aquatic vertebrates.

The oil company noted that its drilling operations for the project will have an impact by way of artificial lighting on drill ships and major installation vessels, installation of equipment for vessels including pile driving, permitted liquid waste discharge, and permitted drill cuttings and fluids discharge. The key effects on the fishing industry from this project are as follows: changes in the distribution of fish due to a l t e r e d w a t e r q u a l i t y, auditory impacts from vessel

sound, auditory impacts from sound from vertical seismic profile surveys and pile driving and attraction to artificial light.

As for production operations, EEPGL said this could lead to changes in the distribution of fish due to a l t e r e d w a t e r q u a l i t y, auditory impacts from vessel sound, changes in distribution and habitat usage due to altered bottom habitats and the presence of project infrastructure, and loss of fish eggs and larvae due to entrainment of immature life stages.

EEPGL was also keen to note that the combined impact of increased

temperature and chlorine concentrations will make the localized mixing zone inhospitable to some species. However, unless fish are physically confined or otherwise prevented from escaping unfavorable water quality conditions (e.g., in the case of fish eggs), fish are usually capable of detecting and avoiding harmful water quality conditions, thereby minimizing potential toxicological impacts.

Additionally, EEPGL said aquatic species may be indirectly impacted by the elevated temperature and residual chlorine in the offshore discharges made by the company. Kaieteur News

understands for example that elevated temperatures may result in aquatic species avoiding regions close to the discharge while residual chlorine may interact with naturally occurring organic m a t t e r, r e s u l t i n g i n chlorinated byproducts with the potential to result in indirect toxicity impacts on aquatic species.

EEPGL was keen to note that there are no regulatory limits for residual chlorine in marine discharges in Guyana.

To be continued…

Kaieteur News will be continuing its series on oil versus the fishing industry over the next few weeks.

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Wednesday April 13, 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

Oil spill fund America has one, why not Guyana?

W

e hope Guyanese listen up: America has a fund for oil spill protection. Following on the heels of that coverage by this paper, we presented the news that China also has its own oil spill fund.

Notwithstanding its huge budget deficits and massive overall debt, the United States of America is still a very rich country, one that can still claim the mantle of global superpower. It is the one to lead the free world forward, the one that sets the stage and pace for other countries to follow.

According to the article titled, “U.S. taxes crude, money placed in oil spill trust fund -Guyana urged to follow suit” (KN April 8), this Fund has been in existence for 35 years.

Monies deposited in it come from laws that empower the levying of a tax on each barrel of crude oil produced within the United States. Further, a tax is placed on petroleum products imported into the U.S. for domestic consumption.

Guyanese should be quick to note that this is happening in the U.S. (it is the law), which is a rich, advanced, and sophisticated country. The U.S. is not leaving developments to chance should a major oil spill occur and those responsible for the spill are either unable or unwilling to foot the bill with cleanup costs, which could run into tens, if not hundreds, of millions, possibly billions of dollars.

This wise and sane precaution is being taken for over three decades by a country that is rich in oil smarts, and which has all kinds of skills, technology, and equipment at its disposal. The U.S. oil spill fund is an insurance policy by itself, and the premiums (tax monies collected) are paid by the oil companies themselves.

This includes all U.S. domestic producers of crude ranging from Anadarko to Chevron to Hess and, of course, ExxonMobil. It is the same ExxonMobil that is present here in Guyana, and which is sword-fencing with snowflakes in its resistance to come clean and straight and give this country the type and amount of oil spill insurance that it needs.

Unlike America, Guyana has neither the muscle nor the political leadership will, to get what should be from its oil.

We are speaking of sensible protections for the local environment, for our neighbours, and for the maintenance of the way of life that has been known for generations.

That is, the safeguards provided by proper insurance in place that helps this poor country weather any disastrous oil spill. It is a normal practice for oil companies and other seasoned corporate players in numerous other businesses to study the threats and risks to their business prosperity and continuity, and put in place contingency measures to cushion possible worst-case scenarios, using all manner of models. This is sensible as well as represents wellthought-out strategic preparations.

It follows quite reasonably that Guyana should think along the same lines, and not be fooled into complacency by continuing billion-barrel oil discoveries offshore. Those are good, but look at the upside only; the downside, as in a massive oil spill can drain all oil wealth to nothing in a hurry. It is why we at this publication keep pushing for oil spill insurance. Already our fisherfolk are feeling the brunt of mysterious declining catch from their efforts and expenses, but of which no official source in government has anything trustworthy to offer.

It could be nonoil related, but that looks a remote possibility at this point, since there seems to be a correlation to oil exploration and production activities, and what our fisherfolk are experiencing.

Like the U.S. we should have had a per barrel tax from the first day and barrel as part of our oil agreement/contract with Exxon. Though we dont have any such provision, we must start thinking about such a tax, even though there is the bitter irony of Guyana paying the taxes of Exxon currently. The U.S. has its oil trust fund, and China has one, too. These are not poor countries, like Guyana is.

Both can afford to absorb the financial blows from a big oil spill. We cant, which is why we must have such a trust fund alongside insurance.

Join Glenn Lalls desperate fight to save Guyana DEAR EDITOR, If youre desperate enough, you will do anything; without hesitation you will morph into David slaying Goliath mode; small axe does cut down big tree, they say.

That is but one lesson that I have learnt from Glenn Lall as he shares some profound truths about this country on his radio programme.

The mans simplified version of the hard hitting news stories, which in the newspaper would go above most of our heads, is impressive by any stretch of the imagination. He has evolved into a giant of a news man, informing people of what they need to know, and with no filter too.

I usually look at his programme, The Glenn Lall Show, on Youtube its on Facebook and his radio station (99.1FM) too. You know the man is sincere when you see the fire in his eyes as he expresses his discuss with the way this country is being governed. It makes me, and I assume, many of his viewers too, thank God daily for sending him our way to open our previously blinded eyes, to the realities that some decisions made by our leaders will keep us trapped in the realm of a developing nation, with no hope of seeing genuine development. But Glenn Lall is not a man without solutions to the problems he sees.

What he has made clear is that he could forgive if “yuh tief a lil bit here and there, but without restrained, now that is simply an abomination, one that has forced the man to expose, as we would say, “he own matte” as well as others who dare to be barefaced too.

The man is a visionary, Ive come to understand. He built a media empire, largely by harnessing the good in people and showing them they have a superb purpose in life to bring an end to the scourge of inequality. Will he achieve this, I think thats up to you and me, and of course where our interest lies.

With some outstanding like-minded people, he has

been carrying the fight, and I am among the readers, and I assure you there are many more, who can no longer ward off the contagion called desperation we are desperate to see a better Guyana for our children, we are desperate to see decent, God-fearing leaders in office, we are desperate to see an end to poverty. What stands between our present existence and achieving these, is desperation. I appeal to all likeminded individuals to protest the wrongs being done in this country, at every corner and it will eventually make honest crooks out of our leaders.

Yours truly, P. France

The Village of Baramita is again in crisis DEAR EDITOR, Soon after the APNU+AFCs accession to political office in 2015, it was recognised that the Indigenous Karyina (Carib) Village of Baramita was severely afflicted by grave social ills. I shall not detain readers with a list, especially since the plight of a people should not be preyed upon. Suffice it to say, however, that, interpersonal violence and unprecedented and alarmingly high rate of suicide headed the list.

It was believed that alcohol consumption was the principal causation. Coming a close second were some policemen who by day became poke knockers and by night disc jockeys.

The Government of Guyana established a “Baramita Task Force”. The task force comprised a number of government ministries, State and other agencies. Interventions included but were not limited to: construction of a school kitchen, stationing of a female Police Officer in Command, closure of illegal mining operations, closing of

illegal shops, particularly those vending hard alcohol and health outreach exercises.

The Village elected its first ever female Toshao who marshalled her council in service to her people and alongside the task force.

A resident Community Development Officer (CDO) was assigned to the Village.

A toll gate/check point was established and manned by Village Councillors, police and residents.

Vehicles and persons attempting to smuggle drugs and hard alcohol into the village were denied entry and were handed over to the Police. Persons who had violated the rules of the Village were given written notice to leave and never return after consideration by the Village Council and General Village Meeting.

Now that the PPP is occupying the office of government the Village of Baramita is again in crisis. The political activists did what they had to do to elect “one of their own” while unseating Toshao Charmaine Rambajue. The

Village is now paying the price for that mistake.

The residents say that, the new Toshao, Mr. Trevor Matheson has returned the Village to the bad days. There is allegedly once again unlimited supply of marijuana and High Wine in Baramita.

The Karyina (Carib) people are now servants of the Brazilian businessmen.

They walk on gold but remain dirt poor. The Toshao allegedly issues permission, both written and oral, to the wealthy Brazilians to establish: hotels, eating houses, mining operations, gold trading businesses and prostitution rings.

It is alleged that, the Toshao performs these actions without the knowledge, participation or consent of the Village Council or General Village population, contrary to law.

It is time for the Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Immigration Department, Customs Anti-narcotic Unit, Excise Department of the GRA and others to step up their operations in the

Baramita Village. It is clear that the Honourable Minister of Amerindian Affairs is not prepared to do anything about the suffering of the people of Baramita.

I have been advised, and do believe that, at least one person has (unofficially) brought the situation to the attention of the Minister, but remains frustrated at the inaction.

Baramita is the largest single settlement of Indigenous Karyina (Carib) Guyanese with a population of approximately 3,000. The Karyina people need to be protected from exploitation, abuse and diseases. In the early days, it was the coast landers who posed the threat.

Now, however, it is the foreigners, tens of them, many of whom do not possess documentation to lawfully conduct business in Guyana.

I am of the Karyina People and urge that, immediate steps are taken to save my people from certain destruction and eventual extinction.

Yours faithfully, Mervyn Williams

Before the cock crew twice, PNCs Norton denied renegotiation thrice DEAR EDITOR, It is quite sad that incoming Opposition Leader of the PNC Mr. Norton is running like hell from the “R” word “RENEGOTIATION.”It seems an unwise thing to do. Some PNC/AFC leaders and some PNC unions have said they support renegotiation, and were in recent protests at the Energy Conference. Its only a matter of time that PNC members catching hell will agitate for the PNC to fight for renegotiation. If Mr. Norton is unable to support renegotiation, who can stop PNC members from supporting any emerging Third Force. The new Civic Society group “Our Wealth, Our

Country” is helping to fuel the momentum towards renegotiation. You would think Mr. Norton would be astute enough to join the renegotiation bandwagon. When the hash tag says “Never Again PNC,” if the PNC is not repenting of this unpardonable sin and fighting for renegotiation of the worst oil contract signed in the history of the oil industry, what will be its agenda? As a serial rapist of elections, a repeat offender in the rigging of elections in full view of a watching world, what else does the PNC have to offer the people of Guyana if it will not seek to atone for its great sin against the nation in selling out the national

oil patrimony?

Is Mr. Norton now sealing the PNCs fate and paving the way for a new Third Force to emerge to replace both major parties? Apparently, both PNC and PPP will not call for renegotiation lest they annoy Exxon and any political friends they think Exxon may have in Washington? (I am not sure how many friends Exxon has in Washington now since the Democrats took over and summoned them to early hearings. Last Wednesday, the House Subcommittee on Commerce and Energy hauled in five oil companies and grilled them in a six-hour hearing with concerns that American custom-

ers were paying higher prices for oil while oil companies were making huge profits.

The Exxon head said, Exxon made US$15 billion in profits in 2021, and Guyana was cited in his comments).

Mr. Norton must not miscalculate to think the people of Guyana and its own destitute supporters are going to sit back and be poor forever, living pay cheque to pay cheque, while they see the oil companies, the business class and friends of the politicians on both sides living “large” on our oil wealth.

Mr. Norton may not have been involved in the PNCs bad decision to sign a (Continued on page 5)

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Govt. has no right to limit Oppositions prerogative to question and investigate accountability DEAR EDITOR, This Government won the 2020 General and Regional Elections fairly and as such they deserve the right to govern Guyana and spend the taxpayers money as they see fit, and according to their campaign promises. However, what the Government has no entitlement to do is to reduce or remove the Oppositions prerogative to question and investigate their accountability via transparency of their financial dealings. The Governments use of taxpayers money for the development in Guyana has to be properly scrutinised and accounted for. Unfortunately, this Government has chosen to try to do everything possible to avoid such scrutiny of its spending. The time period for the examination of the 2022 Budget Estimates was reduced from five to four days even though the Budget was the largest ever at G$552.9 billion and 44.3 percent larger than the 2021 Budget. This meant that the process was hurried, which can never be a sign of good governance.

Two months later, the Government is about to have a motion to amend Standing Order(s) No. 95(6) included on

the Order Paper for Wednesday s sitting of the National Assembly. This will be making an amendment to the required quorum of the Public Account Committee (PAC), which has the following as one of its responsibilities: examine the audited accounts, as presented in the Auditor General’s Report, showing the appropriation of sums granted by the National Assembly to meet public expenditure and such other accounts laid before the Assembly as the Assembly may refer to it. The PAC is composed of nine parliamentarians, five from the Government and four from the Opposition, with the Chairman coming from the Opposition.

The quorum for this Committee is presently three members of any political affiliation. In a troubling manner, the Government is seeking to increase the quorum from the present three persons to five persons, two from the Government and two from the Opposition plus the Chair, Jermaine Figueira. He states that these proposed changes were never discussed at the level of the PAC, although the mover, Gail Teixeira, is a member. Mr. Figueira also claimed

that the motion is being brought directly to the House (The Government has the majority of seats in the Assembly), and not via the Standing Orders Committee, which is the long-established and correct route. This, he said, “is of grave concern”.

Figueira further noted that the Speaker of the National Assembly is the Chairman of the Standing Orders Committee, and he has not called a meeting of the committee since the life of the 12th Parliament began in August, 2020. Minister Teixeira told a PAC meeting, in defence of the motion that it is quite in order and only seeks to ensure that both sides of the House are protected by being present whenever there is a sitting.

This gives the impression that Members of Parliament need a bill passed to ensure they turn up to do their work in the various Committees. Why is the Government suddenly interested in protecting the Oppositions side of the House? They are not, but they want to ensure their Members are present whenever an Account is due to be scrutinised and can control whether it is scrutinised at all.

Increasing the quorum

Before the cock crew twice, PNCs...

From page 4 bad contract and he may not have been the one who secretly promised the Exxon head during the election that they will not renegotiate the oil contract, but he can be the one to lay the blame where it belongs, and help the PNC to “go and sin more.” A full, unqualified support for renegotiation would have inspired new confidence in the PNC, which now has nothing else to offer the nation other than its nuisance value and comedic relief in some of its actions.

While Norton runs away from the word renegotiation, he said he backs oil contract adjustment for more benefits.

Norton said he did not say he backs calls for renegotiation of oil contract in his interview with KN. “Nowhere in the interview did I say that. What I did say was, that the law provides for action to be taken to ensure that the people of Guyana benefit from our resources, and that the contract provides for changes to be made in keeping with Article 31.2 of the Agreement and that the PNC will do everything within the confines of the law to ensure our people get increased benefits from the oil and gas sector.”

When Norton appeared on Globespan in January 2022, Mr. Norton was asked, “Are you satisfied with the

contract we have in oil and gas?” The first words he uttered were, “I believe in the sanctity of contract…I also believe there are a number of loopholes that we can close and ensure our people benefit…” If you look at the USA… they want them (oil companies) to pay taxes… We should be in the same position…but we can do that without getting into a fight.

As presently structured, I am not seeing the evidence that a wide cross section of Guyanese are benefitting.”

Mr. Norton needs to explain whether he believes in “sanctity of contracts” that seems to violate Guyanas laws and was shrouded in secrecy by his party, or whether he would admit to the

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PNCs biggest sin and do all it takes to support the Government and give it leverage to engage Exxon and friends for a better deal.

What does the PNC have to lose? Does the PNC believe if it stays silent on renegotiation, somehow, by some magic, they will be favoured

by American interests over the PPP in 2025?

Its our country and our wealth and New Leader Mr. Norton would do well to undo the evil committed by the PNC against the poor people of Guyana.

“Renegotiation” is not a cuss word, Mr. Norton. It might be the thing to save the PNC! Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall

makes it much more difficult for the PAC to function. There have been times when the quorum of three couldnt be met but now it will be increased to five with very specific requirements of party affiliations needed. These will now be used to prevent any scrutiny of the Governments spending when the PAC starts to examine the accounts from 2021 onwards. When a Government wants to make the examination of its expenditures more difficult, it is not a good sign of good governance. A government which is confident of its good spending, should never have issues with its accounts being examined. Accountability and transparency are the hallmarks of good governance, unfortunately they are grossly missing from this present Government.

Yours sincerely, Jonathan Yearwood

Inpatient Parking DEAR EDITOR, There is, very reasonably, concentration on improving roads (highways) that would facilitate the easier movement of vehicular traffic, albeit without appropriate traffic signals (motor and/or pedestrian).

But what is most disconcerting is the total indifference, indeed neglect, of critical parking arrangements, by the relevant legal decision-makers.

There is this patent lack of initiative by the Traffic Department, as well as the Ministry of Public Works, to conduct a survey that would lead to the construction of geographically suitable parking accommodation.Perhaps the most urgent, but unnoticeable, situation to be addressed is that surrounding the Georgetown Public Hospital, and more specifically the East Street disarrangement.

For it would appear that

the related decision-makers have given little or no attention to the possibility of an emergency arising that would affect the many inactive patients and their attending health care staff that would have to be urgently transitioned.One wonders about the prevailing indifference shown amongst employees, visiting families, and careless drivers (not to mention the absence of traffic control) to the real possibility of an emergency that will require the rescue of too many embedded residents of this overcrowded health facility.

The Commissioner of Police and the Minister of Public Works, along with others, need urgently to investigate the situation of East Street overladen with vehicles, contributing to the confinement of helpless patients and employees needing to be rescued - in an unpredictable emergency.

E.B. John

Are the part time jobs in Regions 2, 6 and 10 fair and equitable?

DEAR EDITOR, Observers and commentators alike are quick to look at everything the Government does through racial or some form of discriminatory lens without any analysis, and logical reasoning whatsoever.

This is an unfortunate reality in our society.

To this end, I have seen some criticisms that the Government announced 800-part time jobs for Region 2, another 800-part time jobs for Region 10, and some 3,000part time jobs for region 6.

The question by observers is what is so special about Berbice (Region 6) to be getting almost 3 times more part time job opportunities than Regions 2 and 10.

Well, the answer is simple; nothing is special and there is absolutely no discrimination here for the following simple, logical reason: According to the last census (2012) the population of

Regions 2, 6, and 10 are as follows: Region 2: 46,810 Region 6: 109,431 Region 10: 39,452.

Clearly, Region 6 population is about 3 times the population size of Regions 2, and 10. Region 6 also may have a higher unemployment rate given the closure of sugar estates a few years ago and the lack of investment over the years in that region. Region 2 is a predominately rice farming region, not as badly affected as the people in Berbice with the closure of the sugar estates, and Region 10, has subsidized electricity where the residents of that region enjoy cheaper electricity rates than residents across

the country, thus, a competitive advantage of Region 10 for light if not heavy manufacturing activities, attractive for investments of these nature. In short, the fact that Region 6 is highly likely to have a higher unemployment rate and a larger population than Regions 2 and 10, almost 3 times the population size of those regions, then to benefit from 3 times the amount of part time jobs than Regions 2 and 10 could only be fair and equitable given the unique situation of each region, and taking into consideration the population size of each region.

Regards, J.C. Bhagwandin Financial Analyst

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Call on European Diplomats to demand Professional Independent Environmental Impact Study of Shore Base

DEAR EDITOR, Reference to letter on shore base in Vreed-en-Hoop (KN 12).

This shore base will severely alter the fauna in the area and pose significant risk of flooding on the East bank, West Bank, particularly the Canal Polders. It will change ecology of upstream areas of the river affecting communities. A loan is being sought for the project.

Government should bring in experts for proper studies to be done before proceeding with approval for the base and seeking the loan to construct it. The European Union banking institution which has been approached for loan should mandate thorough, scientific studies before granting loans for the project.

My sources inform me that the shore base will be partially funded each by Exxon, private investors, and bank loans. Government will guarantee the loan but has no

shares. The writer asked a pertinent question: Will taxpayers be taken for a ride?

It is in Exxons interest to have this shore base as it needs it for the yellowtail project.

The private shareholders (investors) are coming up with partial funding of their own and the rest from loan.

The government is offering a guarantee of the loan for the project. It is a win for the private investors.

Financial institutions from EU have been courted to provide financing alongside Exxon for the construction of this shore base on the western side of the Dem river mouth.

A European banking institution out of Brussels, Belgium, has been approached to provide the loan for the project. The European Union is very strict on environmental matters and must maintain this position.

The EU is not like Guyana

and our EPA or a private company that approves environment impact assessments.

The lending institution in Belgium has insisted on strict environmental study and safeguards for the project before approving the loan.

The lender wants a thorough scientific study of the impact of the shore base on the environment (including river, flow of water, population, fauna, etc.).

The institution is demanding a detailed investigation before giving the go ahead. I t demands an independent study away from Guyanas EPA and a nepotistic private partner firm of the government that approves everything multinationals or the government wants.

The plan shows a shore base jutting out into the Demerara River that will impact on the flow of the river. It will pose grave impact on the rivers

ecology and fauna down the entire coast of our country.

The project goes two kilometres on western side of the mouth of the river mouth, the lower side. In that area, mud drift is from southeast to northwest.

With the base in place, the mud from the flow will drift pass the rivers mouth that supplied continuous nutrient rich sling mud that feed the plankton, crabs, turtles, and other fauna, and all other life form along the coast.

The shore base of 2 KM jutting out blocking flow of river on the western side of the Dem R mouth will cause accumulation of the drift on the mouth of the river and will starve the downstream side of the coast from the nutrient rich mud of the ecology there.

The project will require huge capital to dredge the area in order to maintain the current river flows that will burden taxpayers.

This mud accumulation

along with additional obstruction of the flow of water from the several shore bases jutting out into the river and the proposed Demerara River Bridge are likely to have severe impacts on the flow and ecology of the river.

Narrowing the channel width along with the new proposed bridge will raise the river water. Huge swaths of land in the near shore areas are likely to be flooded to the detriment of ecology.

Lands in the Canal Polder and Wales estate area, that are already prone to flooding are likely to become permanently flooded. Is this all being done to provide wealth for a handful of cronies of officials?

While the project may be an opportunity for some government friends to garner huge amounts of wealth, the ordinary population around the coast and banks of the river will face the consequences.

The

international lending institutions and private banks that are being approached for the loan, especially those from the EU, to finance this project should insist that proper environmental impact assessment be done by reputable professional firms.

Approval studies from the EPA should not be blindly approved but compared with independent studies. Dr. Vincent Adams should also do a study of the impact of the project. I appeal to the European Diplomats in Guyana to banks and lending institutions on the continent to insist on their own impact study. The EU must help us protect and save our environment. Please alert banks in Belgium and elsewhere that are being courted to finance this project to ensure that environmental impact studies are not compromised.

Yours truly, Edward Burrowes

Non-appointment of Chancellor and Chief Justice - a malodorous judicial reality DEAR EDITOR, “I have a right and a duty publicly to express the view that Guyana should not let this year pass and not remedy this regrettable situation.”

Those words were articulated by the esteemed President of the CCJ, Justice Adrian Saunders, as quoted from the

articles titled, “Time to appoint Chancellor, Chief Justice -CCJ President” (KN April 12) and “CCJ President calls for substantive appointment of Chancellor, CJ before end of the year” (SN April 12), and I grapple with what rights remain in this country for people like me, but I do know what my duty is, and I share a little morsel of it today.

For any officer in any position public or private to be acting beyond a year indicates much that is wrong.

He or she is either

incompetent or questionable as to work ethic and reliability, or suspect regarding character, or some combination of all those elements, with others left unmentioned. In sum, it is generally what Guyanese would usually term a caan help situation.

I picked acting for a year arbitrarily, because it could be much less, as circumstances dictate. This is for any job held in an acting capacity by anyone in any place. The holder is either up to scratch or is not.

In the instance of the former, confirmation should follow; in the latter, return to prior position or, in worse case scenarios, demote or terminate.

Now when the job (in this instance two positions) involves the nations judiciary, and the pinnacle of it, then what we have for years acting appointments degrade to the gutter of repugnance.

Whither confidence in the system? What trust does this repose or convey about those performing in the holding pattern of acting capacities for what is an eternity? What other uneasy and unsaid questions at high levels about these two female judicial actors swirl and why?

What does it do for the conjectures of watching citizens, where does it leave them?

When women are in the mix, and the colour line is introduced, what we have, and those acting live with, is the daily degradation of the offices they hold and injury to themselves.

To this I note that when our brutal political prejudices, passions, suspicions, and speculations wend their way, and are all fused, to what is now a malodorous judicial reality, then we exist with what is this hideously rancid and putrid injustice. It is of our ugly, twisted, savaging

politics gripping our judiciary in a vise, and squeezing out any respect and dignity that it once had.

Speaking solely for myself, I would be less than human if I did not ponder what issues there could be about their wisdom, their intellect, their judicial acumen, and their judgment, given what they have been compelled to endure.

I certainly have no issues with both of these senior officers of the law, and this is based purely on trust, and the record of what I assess to be their neutrality and independence, their strengths, perseverance, and abiding dignified presences, notwithstanding the humiliating national and regional ordeals that they have been their shabby and sordid lot.

What has been inflicted upon these two women by our political leaders expose the latter for the closet bigots they are, the monstrous partisans they are, and also possibly the impotent male chauvinist pigs that they are.

As a Guyanese I am embarrassed; as an onlooker, I am appalled and disgusted.

In closing, I quickly note three

areas in which I part company with the sagacious CCJ President. First, since these two acting situations have gone on for so long, there ought not to be the rest of this year to close this out, one way or another.

A month is too short, with some formula or secret sauce making the rounds, and more than a quarter would be too long. This should, must, be over by midyear.

To extend this more would be piling abomination of a cardinal kind upon execration.

The second point of difference with President Saunders is when he surveyed Guyanas judicial landscape and saw it fit to employ mere “blot” to describe what is present. No matter how significant that blot is, it does not exist in singular number in the local realm.

And third, regarding the judicial record that he lauded, it is less than impressive, with credibility in short supply, thanks to individual weaknesses, and political machinations and other wizardries.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Foulis woman stabbed to death by husband The last words a woman screamed while reportedly being stabbed to death by her husband on Tuesday, were “Ow my god”.

She was identified by police as Savitrie Raj age 57

of Lot 563 Foulis Village, East Cost Demerara (ECD).

Her bloodied remains were found by her children lying on her blood soaked bed around 01:00hrs.

Police have since issued

a wanted bulletin for the dead woman’s husband, Vijaimal Raj, also age 57, a fisherman.

Raj is a mother of three and has been married to Vijaimal better known as

“Zorro” for 33 years.

Speaking with reporters, Raj’s youngest daughter, Niaomi, 18, recounted the tragedy that abruptly ended the couple’s 33-year-long marriage. “We been asleep

and we hear mammy screaming ‘ow ma gad, ow ma gad’”, the young woman said.

She recalled rushing to the upper flat of their home with her brother to investigate what was happening. They initially thought that their father might have taken ill and collapsed but little did they know that their mother was being stabbed to death.

“We run upstairs and start knack pon de door and we seh ‘mammy wa happen open de door”, continued Niaomi. She recounted that her father responded, ‘this not none of yall business’.

Realising that something was amiss, the teenage girl said that as her brother tried to force his way in the room, her father broke one of the louvres windows, jumped through a n d r a n a w a y. T h e y eventually managed to gain entrance to their parents’ quarters and proceeded to their mother’s room where they found her lifeless body.

According to police an ambulance was summoned and one attached to the Melanie Fire Station responded to the scene immediately, but when it arrived the Emergency Medical Technician onboard pronounced the woman dead.

After the necessary police investigations were conducted, undertakers were called in to remove Raj’s remains and escort it to Jerrick’s Funeral Home.

Checks were made for her husband but he was not found. Police are now seeking the public’s help in locating him. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact police on telephone numbers, 229-2700, 2292219, 2292557, 226-6978, 225-8196, 911 or report to the nearest police station.

As it relates to what might have led Vijaimal to murder his wife, family members believe that it might have to do with an ongoing court case between the two of them.

Her sister Chandra Harillall told Kaieteur News that the couple’s relationship had been on a rocky path over the last few months and although they were living in the same house, they slept in different rooms. Raj would complain of being verbally and physically abused by her husband especially when he drinks “Guinness”.

Relatives are speculating that the abuse on Raj started after she had applied for an American

Stabbed to death by her husband, Savitrie Raj

Wanted for the murder of his wife, Vijaimal Raj visa to migrate and leave him behind. On one occasion last month he reportedly lashed her to the head with a “Guinness bottle”. “He been lash she in she head with a Guinness bottle and she been guh welfare and police and report the matter”, related Harilall.

As a result, Vijaimal was placed before the court and was scheduled to make his second appearance today.

However, relatives said that he was annoyed at Raj for taking him to court and had threatened to kill her.”He nah been want go to court and he been seh how he guh kill she”, they told reporters. Relatives said that they had advised her to move out from the home but Raj was a bit reluctant and was awaiting the court’s ruling to make a decision.

According to Harilall she visited her sister on Monday.

“It was my birthday and me guh by she and sit down with both a dem and me talk to dem…me tell them yall is big people yall have to stop this thing and live nice”, recalled Harilall. She continued that she left the couple’s home around 14:00hrs that day and Harilall was sober. “He does normally drink Guinness but when me talk to he he talk sober and he was ok”, said Harilall.

On Tuesday Harilall remembered receiving a call from her niece asking her to come over because her sister was just stabbed to death.

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

Good news, bad years!

The PPP/C has had 25 plus years in governing Guyana. During this period, they have developed considerable experience in how to ameliorate bad news with promises in the form of good news.

This PPP/C has become quite adept at this art. And its proficiency in doing so was no better on display than over the past few days in the county of Berbice.

The government is on an outreach to all parts of the country. But the real target of the outreach appears to have been Berbice where the Second Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo descended last Sunday, followed by the President, in tow, on Monday.

First the bad news came.

The Second Vice President told fisherfolk that the agreement which was reached between Guyana and Suriname for the latter to licence Guyanese fisherfolk is now in limbo.

At present, Guyanese fishers would lease a licence held by a Surinamese national or firm. They are required to pay an annual fee in return.

This allows them to legally fish in Surinamese waters using Surinamese licences.

The fishers, however, made representation to be licenced directly by the Surinamese government. And

the Guyana government entered into such an agreement when the Surinamese President came to Guyana.

But it now appears as if there has been a pushback against this agreement.

The Second Vice President could give no firm commitment as to when or if this agreement will be honoured.

If by now the Second Vice President does not understand why the agreement is in limbo, he should be reminded about something called local content.

The Surinamese are doing in the fishing industry what Guyana is doing in its oil and gas sector. If Guyanese fisherfolk want to fish in Surinamese waters, they have to enter into an agreement with locals. This is bad news for the fisherfolk who were hoping to get licenced directly.

The second bad news, delivered by the Second Vice President is that the sugar production will be downscaled. In this columnist belief, this is a euphemism for saying that production in Skeldon will not recommence.

As this column had pointed out before, the $250,000 per dismissed sugar workers which was distributed last year was a parting gift. It signalled the end of sugar production at Skeldon.

The Second Vice President was keen to say that private cane farming will continue. But the private cane farmers lost millions because of the malfunctioning Skeldon Sugar Factory built under Jagdeo.

Those farmers will be very brave to take another risk at cane farming.

Berbicians were also told that lands will be put into hemp cultivation.

But this is of little comfort for the more than 1,300 sugar workers who are yet to be reemployed in the sugar industry at Skeldon.

Hemp is not a labour intensive industry.

It is a capital intensive industry and will not be able to absorb much of the displaced labour from sugar cultivation.

The hemp industry is also racked with controversy. But that is another subject for another column.

The prospects in Skeldon are bleak. The death knell has been sounded for sugar in that part of Berbice. The people should read between the lines. Bad news is bad news even if followed by good news.

The good news came from President Irfaan Ali. He announced that a new stadium is going to be erected in Berbice and that hotels and an urban centre will follow. All

Dem Boys Seh…

De people in Berbice getting put in sala-wala De guvament getting dem people in Berbice blood pressure moving up and down.

Dem telling dem people about de fish licences agreement dem put pon ice in Suriname.

And dem sending mixed signals about sugar.

Dem promise dem fishermen dem gan set up shrimp ponds fuh cultivate shrimp.

Dem boys remember when dem bin promise marine pens fuh help de fishermen.

Dem boys nah hear nuttin mo about dat since.

Is just like de investigation wah was supposed to be done about why de fish dem swimming away.

Dem boys nah hearing nuttin more about dat. But one representative of de fishers

bin seh was because of climate change.

Is sheer good news and bad news.

It mek dem boys remember about de man wah get admit to de hospital, De doctor run some tests. After a few days, de doctor turn up to de man bed side and tell he dat he get back de test results and he gat good news and bad news.

De man tell de doctor fuh tell he de good news first. De doctor tell he, “Yuh gat to live.

De man was shocked. And he asked de doctor, “So what is the good news?”

De doctor say: “The bad news is I was supposed to tell you since yesterday.”

But sometimes, de good news and bad news does turn out fine. Like de time a woman was waiting at de aerodrome for she husband to return from skydiving lessons.

De pilot approached she and say: “I’m sorry, but there’s been an accident. I gat some bad news, some good news, some more bad news, and some more good news.”

“The bad news is your husband fell out the plane.

The good news is, he had on his parachute.

The bad news is, he hit the ground before his chute could open. The good news is, we hadn’t taken off yet.”

Talk half and leh de blowblow blow!

of this ostensibly will be located at Palmyra, utilising abandoned sugar lands.

The proposal for the upgrading of Albion has been ditched.

The new stadium will now be located at Palmyra since there is more space and the stadium can be linked to the planned hotel and urban centre. The plan to erect a new stadium is wasteful spending.

The proposed stadium will be, it is said, of the same standard as the National Stadium in Providence. But why does Guyana need a second stadium when the first one is under-utilised. But this brainwave to build a new sta-

dium is the PPP/Cs idea of plucking projects out of the magicians hat.

The government has failed the people of Berbice.

The fisherfolks expectations have been dashed.

The promise to reopen the closed estates will not materialise, at least not in Skeldon.

Berbicians should not become too excited about the plans which the President has unveiled.

The economy of Berbice is depressed and will be a major risk for anyone to place another hotel in the Region when the occupancy at the nearby hotels in New

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Amsterdam is pitifully low.

The people of Berbice are advised to make plans for the future. Get your children on the next plane out! There is nothing good in store for you under the PPP/C. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Should the PNC leader recall this man from GECOM? At the beginning of March this year, the WPA issued a statement carried in the Guyana Standard in relation to the controversy over who should be the leader of the Opposition. In that statement, the WPA referred to the APNU as nonexistent. When I read it, I thought maybe, it was a misquote. So I read it again.

Here are the words: “The APNU is a non-working organisation. The APNU exists in name only, and so the issue before us is not an APNU issue, the issue before us is a PNC issue and the PNC has to solve it... for all intents and purposes, the APNU is dead.”

The WPA’s statement came at a time when there

were and are burning questions about the actual existence of many entities that refer to themselves as national organisations. If the APNU is a non-existent body, then what makes it such and can the criteria you use to explain its lack of life be applied to other social and political organisms in this land? One must start with the organisation itself that makes that claim against the APNU, that is, the WPA. Can the sociologist that studies Guyana describe the WPA as a functioning entity?

What makes a political party a real thriving entity? First, it has to have a structure. This is fundamental to every living group. There must be a leadership in which roles are

clearly demarcated. The traditional pattern is leader, deputy leader; chairman and deputy; general secretary and deputy; treasurer and public relations functionary; an executive body ranging from 10 or 15 to 30 or 40; office with a secretariat, etc.

This infrastructure is guaranteed a future through membership which maintains the leadership’s functionalism through elections. The election is done through periodic congresses. The stronger a party becomes its infrastructure undergoes extension. Added would be party sub-offices in different parts of the country.

For over 40 years, the WPA has not held a congress

and back then those who were referred to as party leaders were simply just described as such. Not one journalist, not one politician in the major parties, not one police officer in Guyana knows who the formal leader of the WPA is and the names of its executives. This state of affairs has been going on for over 40 years.

Just who are these people? How many are they?

Where can they be located?

Two names crop up all the time whenever letters are sent to the press in the name of the WPA – Tacuma Ogunseye and David Hinds.

No political party in any country has a leader that lives outside the country. In fairness to David Hinds, he

has never once referred to himself as the leader of the WPA. We can safely say then that Hinds is not the leader. Who is the leader of the WPA and if there Frederick Kissoon isn’t one, what is the shape of its Granger is no longer leader, hierarchy? if APNU does not exist, if How many persons are because Granger is no longer inside the hierarchy? There head of the PNC and APNU, is no point prolonging this the new PNC leader must discussion. The WPA like have latitude and jurisdiction APNU exists in name only. to make choices, then what But the WPA has trapped a b o u t M r. G r a n g e r ’s itself. Here is what the WPA appointment of Mr. Trotman told Guyana Standard: “Now to GECOM? You cannot that Mr. Granger is no argue that Harmon’s fate longer the PNC Leader, the should have been decided by logic is: the PNC has the the new leader of the PNC right to name somebody else and not Trotman’s. Both in the position of Leader of were appointed by the the Opposition and the PNC former PNC leader. will have to decide whether Finally, if APNU no it will name Mr. Harmon or longer exists, the WPA is Mr. Norton or whomever dead and AFC is dying then else…That is the PNC’s surely the state of affairs in business.” the opposition is woeful.

Now if Mr. Granger is This explains why some gone and there is a new non-existent groups calling leader who has to make themselves national choices, then the WPA has to organisations are thinking of give Mr. Norton a chance to filling the void. But if they select who he wants to be do so, we are back to square GECOM commissioner one – they too are nonbecause it was Mr. Granger existent. So who is alive in that selected Desmond Guyana?

Trotman. And Trotman’s party, the WPA is living with (The views expressed in the same curse as the APNU this article are those of the – non existence. author and do not Society should debate necessarily reflect the Mr. Trotman’s fate based on opinions of this newspaper.) the logic of the WPA. If

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Police told to arrest main suspect in Goed Intent murder The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar AliHack, S.C has advised police in Region Three to release the man being held in custody for Devon Cumming’s murder, and that they should apprehend the main suspect involved.

Cummings, a 32-year-old labourer of Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara was reportedly chopped and stabbed to death following an altercation at a restaurant in Goed Intent, West Bank Demerara last Wednesday.

Speaking with Kaieteur News yesterday, Commander of Region Three, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Siwnarine said, that following the arrest of one of two

- DPP says man in custody not culpable suspects, the file was sent to the DPP for advice on a way forward with the mater.

The file was returned on Monday and the DPP advised the police to apprehend the main suspect, and that there is not enough evidence to show that the current person in custody was culpable and he should be released. It was reported that around 16:50hrs on April 6, the now deceased and one of his friends were passing from the backdam when they saw other friends including the two suspects imbibing alcohol at the restaurant which is located on Back Street,

Goed Intent.

The report further states, that Cummings and his friend were invited to take a shot of rum to which they agreed. At the time, one of the suspects had his cutlass in his hand. Shortly after imbibing, it was reported by the police that a ‘tantalizing’ (taunting) started and Cummings said he was going home and walked out the shop.

While leaving the premise, an argument then ensued between Cummings and another male which led to a fight. Though information about the argument remains unclear, detectives reported that

Cummings hit one of the men and this caused one of the suspects to arm himself with a cutlass.

Reports state, that one of the suspects pushed Cummings against a wall while the other pulled out a knife and stabbed him to his chest; he was also chopped to his head.

After attacking Cummings, the two suspects escaped in an unknown direction.

An injured Cummings was picked up and rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he died while receiving treatment.

His body was later taken to the Ezekiel’s Funeral Home for a post mortem examination.

Investigation into the man’s death is still ongoing.

Devon Cummings on the day of the incident.

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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GuySuCo training school to be converted into oil and gas centre President Irfaan Ali on Monday said, that the Port Mourant Training Centre in Region Six will be transformed into a national training centre to prepare Guyanese youth for the oil and gas and hospitality sectors.

The President said $160 million will be spent on phase one of the project, which is expected to commence by the end of the year. The President led a community engagement at the Rose Hall Estate Welfare Ground in Canje, along with Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, M i n i s t e r o f To u r i s m Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond and Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues.

“The Guyana National Training Centre will be here in Region Six. This is the centre that will train our young people in different areas of oil and gas, and the hospitality institute will be

President Irfaan Ali said the Govt. is investing in its youth.

part of that centre. These are the investments that will transform this region,” the president said. He said that government understands the importance of education and the need to ensure youths are equipped with the necessary skills that would make them employable and contribute to the country’s development. As such, the sum of $50 million will also be invested to equip the New

A m s t e r d a m Te c h n i c a l Institute (NATI), to train young people in skills needed in the region and the country at large.

“We are creating a macro-vision that will transform this region beyond recognition, that will bring new opportunities, that will bring new jobs, that will bring sustainable jobs, and that will empower people to participate in a greater way

in the economy of this region. That is what we are about.”

The president also spoke of some of the other initiatives implemented to improve access to education within the region. The sum of $108 million was spent on the provision of textbooks for primary aged children.

Resources will also be provided for books for the secondary school students.

More than $613 million was also disbursed to parents of school aged children in the region through the Because We Care cash grant, while $122 million was

distributed in uniform allowance. The head-of state also mentioned some of the other initiatives implemented to bring relief to the citizens including the COVID cash grant which saw some 39,000 households benefiting from $926 million in disposable income.

Further, more than $3.6 billion in pension has been distributed to pensioners. In keeping with its manifesto promise, President Ali said that amount will triple in the coming years. Additionally, close to $50 million was spent to empower women

within the region.

“We understand that the i s s u e s a r e multidimensional… not only are we embarking on education and training programme, but we are investing in a shelter for women. We have invested in child advocacy centres for our children,” he noted.

The president said that the initiatives are all part of the administration’s overall plan to uplift the lives of citizens, and create an enabling environment for citizens to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Pres. Ali offers no solution to high Berbice Bridge toll - says open to dialogue with shareholders, but can’t take over bridge President Irfaan Ali on Monday offered no real solutions to the cries of Berbicians for a reduction in the Berbice Bridge toll, instead saying he is willing

to hold talks with the shareholders of the company even as he insisted that that Guyana is a free and open society and that government cannot take over the facility.

Ali made the remarks during an outreach to Region Six at Welfare Ground, East Canje and Albion Complex, on Monday. His comments were premised on an article

President Irfaan Ali addressing a meeting in Region Six on Monday. published by Kaieteur News on Monday 11th April 2022 where the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce led by businessman Mohamed Raffik called on the government to take 100% ownership of the Berbice River Bridge and reduce the tolls by 50%.

Ali said, “I saw the headlines today that the private sector asked the government to take over the Berbice Bridge. We believe in a free open society and the government can’t go and

take over the bridge but this government is willing to work with every stakeholder.”

The President also said that if the shareholders of the Berbice Bridge are open and willing to engage the government on the issue then they will be receptive to such a move. “...you have a government with a receptive ear, a government that is willing to listen to them so we can make the best possible decision in the interest of you, the people of this region and

the people of this country”, Ali told the hundreds that turned up to the locations. He said further that if there is something that can be done to reduce the toll to cross the bridge, the government will “embrace that action”.

At a recent press briefing with the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC), chamber president Mohamed Raffik had disclosed that a letter was dispatched to President Ali, Minister of Public Works Continued on page 18

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Peru to strengthen laws to deal with oil spills, protection of citizens

A

lmost three months after approximately 12,000 barrels of crude was spilled from one of Spanish oil giant, Repsol refineries in Peru – t h e c o u n t r y ’s M i n i s t e r o f Environment (MINAM), Modesto Montoya, has cited the importance of legislative reform to adequately deal with companies after oil spills and to protect citizens.

As the country is grappling to recover from what they called an “ecological disaster”, the Minister pointed out that the country’s current laws are too permissive with the pollution produced by companies.

The minister’s comment comes on the heels of the country facing several difficulties with the responsible company in relation to the cleaning up and remediation of their environment and citizens, especially fishermen and their families being affected.

Minister Montoya emphatically stated that he believes that Repsol is setting a bad example for the population and other companies, due to the fact that it is not fully complying with its obligations in the clean-up and

remediation of the areas damaged by the oil spill that occurred on January 15, 2022 along Peru’s coastline.

To provide aid for the citizens, last week, the Peruvian government had to order the oil giant, to pay an additional US$700 compensation to those who were affected by the spill.

Minister Montoya has indicated that this measure is the result of the efforts made by the Government to meet the demands of the affected population. According to Peruvian reports, the Minister explained that this second cash advance is added to the previous one (US$700), which will be distributed among the Peru’s Minister of Environment, affected people who are Modesto Montoya registered.

“The company has to be by environmental liabilities and oil honest and, above all, take care to compensate the people affected, spills. “There are irresponsible l i k e t h e f i s h e r m e n , ” h e companies that due to lack of technology, have left our territory commented.

The Minister also disclosed, semi-devastated by pollution,” he that during his trips to different remarked.

According to reports, the crude parts of the country, he verified the magnitude of the damage caused was spilled from one of the La

Pampilla refineries, which are owned by Repsol, off the coast of Ventanilla in the region of Lima, Peru.

It was reported that the spill was caused by shock waves from an undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean. At the time of the undersea eruption, Suezmax tanker, Mare Doricum, was offloading a shipment of Brazilian crude oil at one of La Pampilla refinery’s offshore mooring buoys, and as such, a quantity of the cargo was released.

R e p s o l h a d underreported the quantity of crude that was spilled to the Agency for Environmental Assessment and Control (OEFA), stating that only 0.16 barrels of crude was spilled, and affecting an area of 2.5m2.

However, later investigations by Peru’s OEFA revealed that more than 10,000 barrels of crude had spilled – more than double the amount initially reported by the company and the affected area

reaches a size of 11,061 hectares.

Notably, Peru’s OEFA have imposed the fifth coercive fine in the sum of Sol $460,000 (US$124,307) for the noncompliance of the administrative measure, containment and recovery of the hydrocarbon from the second oil spill. In addition to the five coercive fines the agency has initiated five sanctioning administrative procedures against Repsol. For the administrative sanctions the fines could exceed Sol$92, 000, 000 (US$ 24,861,505).

As the Government of Peru takes action to protect its people and its environment, Guyana in contrast, continues to give American oil giant, ExxonMobil, permission to operate without full coverage insurance to cater for such a disastrous oil spill. In February, last, ExxonMobil announced that it has commenced oil production at Guyana’s second offshore development area called Liza Phase Two in the Stabroek Block. Among the oil companies working in Guyana’s backyard is the very oil company –Repsol – that caused the oil spill in Peru.

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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‘High Court erred in decision to grant pension and benefits to dismissed CEO’ - NBS’ Lawyer argues In a bid to convince the Court of Appeal that a High Court judge had erred in his decision to grant dismissed former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the New Building Society (NBS), Maurice Arjoon his pension and benefits, attorney Pauline Chase has asked the Court to consider a number of factors which were overlooked by the trial judge.

Among other things, Chase noted that based on the evidence of the trial there was a breach of the established operating procedures of the society under the former CEO. She noted too that while Arjoon’s lawyer argued that no fraud was committed under his client’s watch, “the legitimacy of the transaction,” was never relevant to proving the appeal proceedings before the court.

Instead, Chase said that the crux of the case is whether or not Arjoon as CEO of one of the largest financial institutions in the country was liable for summary dismissal for non-compliance with rules and procedures of the mortgage institution.

According to Chase, notes of evidence in the trial as well as the judgment of the High Court, all acknowledge that there were breaches to NBS’ rules under Arjoon’s watch. In this regard, the lawyer made specific reference to the evidence proffered by NBS witness Rajaram. Chase noted that in his evidence Rajaram told the trial judge that there were at least ten instances of non-compliance of the rules and regulations of NBS while Arjoon sat at the helm of the institution.

Dismissed CEO of NBS, Maurice Arjoon However, while under crossexamination, she noted the witness could only recall three of those

instances. “… That does not mean the other seven did not occur…”

According to Chase, while in other instances this bit of evidence could be overlooked, in the circumstances of the case before the Appeal Court, it only goes to prove NBS’S case that former CEO was guilty of gross misconduct and therefore liable of summary dismissal by the society.

The Attorney advanced therefore, that once taken into consideration, the High Court judge could not have determined otherwise. Chase said that the only reasons why the ruling went in Arjoon’s favour were simply because the trial judge made a number of missteps in determining the outcome of the matter. Among these errors, Chase said that the Judge applied the wrong

application in his determination of whether Arjoon was guilty of summary dismissal. The lawyer cited sections of the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act (TESPA) in which the judge overlooked or failed to adequately apply in the consideration of the judgment.

She submitted therefore, that the decision to grant Arjoon his benefits and pension in keeping with TESPA was flawed and should be overturned. The case is premised on a lawsuit brought by the former CEO who challenged the grounds by which he was dismissed from his job since 2007. Arjoon and two of his managers were fired on allegations of fraud on claims that over $69 million was fraudulently withdrawn for an NBS account Continued on page 17

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

PAGE 17

Govt. threatens to take over city streets to curb roadside vending Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall SC., has accused the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of legitimising vending on State reserves.

He said vendors have been allowed to take over the streets, parapets and sidewalks for a small fee. To this end, the AG is warning the M&CC that if it fails to act on curbing this practice, the government will be forced to take control of the city streets. The AG’s comments come of government embarking on a series of visits to communities across the country. During one of the visits, Nandlall noted that while encumbering of state reserves is not limited to Georgetown, the issue is by far more widespread in the city. He therefore blamed the Georgetown Council for

City Mayor, Ubraj Narine legitimising the practice by accepting a fee from persons for their continued occupation of the reserves. “…While the Government is expending a tremendous amount of time and resources in trying to clean the city and its environs, a venture that the City Council has publicly

refused to join hands on, they exacerbate the problem by licencing to create these public nuisances.” “We simply cannot continue in this way…The use of these roads causes serious traffic hazards, traffic congestions, and public inconvenience.”

Nandlall said.

Further, the AG noted that a number of stores on Regent Street have been forced to secure court orders against vending on the pavement in front of their commercial properties. “…and they (the vendor) also affect private proprietors from accessing and enjoying the use and benefits of their properties,” Nandlall stated, adding that “…if this state of affairs is not addressed by the City Council, the Government will be forced to act including taking over some of these city streets under

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

Americans nabbed at CJIA with fake COVID-19 test results Two American citizens, a woman and a man, were on Sunday caught with forged PCR test results at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) located at Timehri, on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

According to police the two were passengers scheduled to board a flight to the John F. Kennedy International Airport located in New York, USA. While checking in, they were asked to present their Covid-19 PCR test results.

They presented their respective documents

with results purporting that they both tested negative for Covid-19 at the Sherriff Medical Centre. After the medical documents were examined by the airport officials, it was suspected that they might have been forged.

The officials then proceeded to contact the private institution to verify if the documents were authentic and it turned out that they were fake. The passengers were handed over to police who took them into custody and later released them on station bail pending further investigation.

‘High Court erred in decision to...

From page 16 holder under their management. The men endured negative publicity, as well as a trial in Magistrate Court, before they were cleared of the charges.

An Ombudsman’s report had later confirmed Arjoon’s contention that he was framed for refusing to lend some $2B of NBS’ money to the Bharrat Jagdeo- led government for the construction of the Berbice River Bridge. Arjoon and another manager (Kent Vincent) then turned around

and filed separate lawsuits suing the institution for wrongful dismissal.

After notable delays, High Court Justice Brassington Reynolds concluded in 2016 and later ruled that Arjoon was dismissed wrongfully; hence, he was entitled to severance pay by virtue of his status and contract under TESPA. As such, following the court’s computation from estimates submitted by Arjoon’s lawyers, a total of $79,282,801 was awarded to Arjoon on July 20, 2017 days

after Justice Brassington Reynolds ruled that the former employee was entitled to recover all benefits that were lost as a result of the dismissal.

However, the matter did not end there, as NBS appealed the Court’s decision to pay Arjoon.

The company cited more than a dozen grounds, including that it was erroneous and that pension cannot be awarded together with severance and other benefits when an employee is terminated or dismissed.

Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, S.C. The Roads Act”.

The AG also noted that the issue of street vending is a countrywide problem in most communities. As such, he said that Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) across the country

have been advised to remove these encumbrances and institute criminal charges if necessary. To this end Nandlall said, “While the Government recognises that these vendors are earning a living and in that respect is empathic, they cannot continue to do so in a manner that causes public disorder, and creates a public nuisance. The laws must be enforced to ensure an orderly society.”

However, the AG’s statement was taken in strides as Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine expressed concerns that the stance of the government can foment the already strained relations in the city. In a statement issued on Tuesday Narine noted “The Municipality continues its

efforts to provide an avenue for legitimate business to be conducted in the city.

Vending is one form that has served the City for decades.

Vendors provide economic services to the City and provide income for families.

All legitimate vendors pay a fee to the Municipality and commit to clean up before and after business” Mayor Narine urged the AG not to cherry pick issues pointing out that there are a number of issues affecting the citizenry. “The challenge of outstanding taxes owed by Government agencies continues to plague the Municipality. The Council despite its best attempts is starved of resources by the Government and some state departments,” the Mayor said in his statement.

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Food and Drugs Dept. warns consumers of chocolates linked to bacterial outbreak The Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) has issued a public advisory on the recall of all batches of Kinder chocolate products

manufactured by Ferrero Ardennes S.A facility in Rue Puerto Ferrero, 5 Arlon 6700, Belgium due to a Salmonella [bacteria] outbreak.

The known trade names of products that were recalled are: Schoko-Bons, Happy Moments

– K in d e r C o n f ec tio n s Assortment, Mini Eggs, Mix – Egg Hunt Kit, Mix – 7 Easter treats, Surprise, Miraculous, Surprise, Natoons and Surprise.

As a result of the manufacturer recalling certain brand of the Kinder chocolate products – the GA-FDD is urging consumers to NOT consume the recalled products and citizens with the implicated product in their home is urged to immediately DISCARD or return to the location where it was purchased.

Salmonella is a type of rod-shaped gramnegative bacteria of the f a m i l y enterobacteriaceae.

The two species of Salmonella are enterica and bongori.

Continued on page 28

Some of the Kinder chocolate products implicated in the salmonella outbreak.

Cautionary tale for Guyana…Pt. 1

Despite having over 20 rigid laws for good governance…

Nigeria’s oil wealth only benefits 1% of population while 88.4M citizens live in extreme poverty When it comes to producing oil and gas, Nigeria is arguably, without an equal when compared to its other African counterparts.

Not only is it the largest oil producer in Africa, but it also holds the largest natural gas reserves on the continent, raking in over US$34B in 2019.

Despite such massive revenue earnings, enviable reserves and a suite of over 20 legal instruments for good governance, the World Bank has found that Nigeria’s wealth only benefits a select few. The financial institution which is also assisting Guyana in developing its oil management capacity highlighted that more than 80% of Nigeria’s energy revenues only benefit one percent of the population.

Corruption was cited as the main cause, with the net effect being widespread poverty.

In 2022, out of an estimated population of 216.7 million people, 88.4 million people in Nigeria live in extreme poverty. The number of men living on less than 1.90 U.S. dollars a day in the country reached around 44.7 million, while the count was at 43.7 million for women. Overall, 12.9 percent of the global population in extreme poverty can be found in Nigeria as of 2022.

Oxfam America, a confederation of 19 independent charitable organizations, has also noted in a special report that in Nigeria, the scale of economic inequality has reached extreme levels as there is an accumulation of “obscene amounts of wealth” by a small number of individuals.

In examining the numbers, the confederation which focuses on the alleviation of global poverty, pointed out that the richest man in Nigeria would have to spend US$1M a day for 41 years to exhaust

his fortune.

In fact, the international body pointed out that the combined wealth of Nigeria’s five richest men amounts to $29.9 billion—more than enough to end extreme poverty at a national level.

Oxfam further noted that the amount of money the richest Nigerian man can earn annually from his wealth is sufficient to lift two million people out of poverty for one year.

Further computations by Oxfam also showed that between 1960 and 2005, about US$20 trillion was stolen from the treasury by public office holders. This is larger than the GDP of United States in 2012 (about US$18 trillion).

As a result of the mistakes made with the oil and gas resources, Oxfam noted that 57 million Nigerians lack safe water, over 130 million lack adequate sanitation, and the country has more than 10 million children out of school.

Considering the foregoing, the transparency advocacy body said, “Poverty and inequality in Nigeria are not due to a lack of resources, but to the ill-use, misallocation and misappropriation of such resources.”At the root is a culture of corruption combined with a political elite out of touch with the daily struggles of average Nigerians.”

Oxfam America, the World Bank and many other international organizations have cautioned new oil producing states like Guyana, would be wise to pay rapt attention to the mistakes by these and other nations as it pursues the development of its new found wealth. They have warned that laws by themselves do not mean a country is bound to be a success story with oil and gas.

Pres. Ali offers no solution...

From page 14 Bishop Juan Edghill, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall and Senior Minister responsible for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh requesting that the government negotiates with the Bridge Company owners for “100% ownership” and the reduction of fairs by at least 50%.

Raffik had said in the letter it was proposed that the government look at the option of purchasing the shares of the owners of the Berbice River Bridge but that because of the current structure that exists, the owners of the bridge cannot reduce the tolls to what they would prefer it to be. To this end, he opined that having the bridge toll/fare reduced by at least 50%, will be significant

for Berbicians since it will assist in the transporting of goods and services to Berbice and out of the county at a reduced cost.

Raffik had also mentioned that since the letter was sent, the Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill had responded and that a meeting with him was expected shortly to engage on the issue.

In 2019, the previous government had signalled intentions to have discussions with BBCI to buyout the ownership of the bridge and BBCI had issued a statement indicating that if the government is willing to make a reasonable offer for the purchase then they were ready and willing to meet and consider the offer. There was however, no discussions held between the two parties on the matter.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

1.5MW Bartica solar farm to be ready in June Farfan & Mendes Limited and SOVENTIX Caribbean S.R.L are expected to hand over the 1.5 megawatts Bartica solar farm to the government of Guyana on June 1, 2022.

In November 2020, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) signed a deal for the establishment of solar farms at Lethem and Bartica which cost a total of $1.1B. The deal was signed for the engineering, procurement, construction and installation and commissioning of solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants including Battery Energy Storage Systems for the hinterland at Bartica and Lethem in two lots.

The project comes under the renewable energy solutions for the hinterland, which is one of the major components under the Energy Matrix Diversification and Strengthening of the Department of Energy programme funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB).

It was reported that by the end of 2023, the programme will finance the investment in solar technology and provide a reliable electricity source to the expanding needs of power supply in the three hinterland townships,

currently relying on fossil fuel.

This will entail the installation of three solar Photovoltaic farms in Bartica (1.5MW), Lethem (1.0MW), and Mahdia (0.65MW) and implementation of storage capacity.

During a visit to the solar farm on Tuesday, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, said that he was satisfied with the progress of the 1.5 megawatt solar farm.

The senior government official inspected the site and noted that it was approximately 90 per cent completed and is on schedule to be handed over to the Government on June 1.

According to a post from the Office of the Prime Minister, the PM was also pleased that 95 per cent of the workers being used to construct the farm are Guyanese.

He said that this is especially important since Government will be undertaking similar projects in the future.

It was further stated that the construction of the solar farm is the fulfillment of a commitment by the PPP/C Administration to provide more reliable energy to Guyanese, and is in keeping with the Government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.

A section of the solar farm.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips and others at the Bartica 1.5MW solar farm.

PAGE 19

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Toolsie Persaud gets logging concession - EPA The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced for the general public that Toolsie Persaud Timber Traders Inc. State Forest Exploratory Permit (SFEP) 02/2013 Logging Project located at Right Bank Cuyuni River, Left Bank Puruni River, Left Bank Ekabago River, Right Bank Mara-Mara River, Region 7 has been approved.

This, pursuant to Section 12 of the Environmental Protection Act, Cap. 20:05, based on the following grounds: The EPA said that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has fully complied with the Terms and Scope which were set by the EPA in consideration of the submissions made by members of the public.

It said the EIA has adequately addressed the views and feedback expressed by members of the public and other stakeholders during consultations and the statutory sixty (60) day public review period. “he EIA has adequately assessed the potential adverse effects or risks posed by the project, and The Environmental Mitigation Plan contained therein, proposes appropriate and adequate measures to mitigate the same; and 4. The Environmental Assessment Board has approved the EIA, according to the EPA.

GTT providing internet service to Exxon offshore GTT’s Chief Operations Officer for Business Solutions, Mr. Orson Ferguson

The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT) Company recently achieved a milestone which it says other players in the region are yet to accomplish.

In February of this year, GTT completed the technical process to service offshore vessels with internet connectivity, a major highlight of the company’s decades old expertise. In a recent interview with Kaieteur News, the company’s Chief Operations Officer (COO) for Business Solutions, Mr. Orson Ferguson provided this newspaper with some of the impacts the oil sector has had on its operations.

Ferguson said that while the oil sector came with better remuneration packages, therefore pressuring its skilled labour force, ExxonMobil also approached the company with great demands that no other entity ever requested or required. To date, GTT has completed two major projects for Exxon.

The company’s Business Solutions COO explained, “One was to help build 4G LTE network 120 miles offshore. Just imagine a customer coming to us and say hey we want to build a city, in effect it is a city right, we want to build a city in the middle of the ocean and we need 4G LTE service out there so that people who are going to be living out there can communicate with people around the world.”

Ferguson was happy to report that GTT was able to meet the requirement or fulfill its customer’s request. The Liza Unity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Vessel is currently being supplied with internet connectivity from GTT. Damian Blackburn, the new Chief Executive Officer for the service provider noted that the process took about two years to come to life, starting in 2019. “We went with our network vendor on the design, it was installed actually in Singapore on the ship and when the ship was brought here we had to commission the systems…it’s the first time anybody in the region has done it actually,” Blackburn explained.

As it regards the second project, Ferguson said that the company is also providing services to ExxonMobil’s onshore facilities via fibre. He said, “They came to us and asked that we connect all of their facilities via fibre and so we were able to create a fiber range for them as well so all of their facilities onshore are connected to their base at Houston via a network designed specifically for them.”

According to GTT, Exxon has allowed the company to stretch its capabilities and also assisted in finding ways to design more complex solutions.

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

GRA New Amsterdam office relocated The previous GRA New Amsterdam Office.

The newly constructed GRA New Amsterdam Office.

As part of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) programme to enhance delivery of its service by the upgrading and construction of regional offices – the State agency has been successful in relocating its New Amsterdam branch.

The notable outcome of GRA’s service enhancement programme is the construction and relocation of the New Amsterdam Integrated Regional Tax Office (NAIRTO) to Ferry Street and Esplanade Road, New Amsterdam, Region Six. With the anticipated economic growth in Region Six, the old office at Strand, New Amsterdam, is being retrofitted to house a regional LEID Office.

According to a GRA press release, the modern and spanking new facility includes a canteen, taxpayers’ waiting area, and well-spaced departments to deliver services to taxpayers seeking Compliances, Estate Duty, Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR), Trade and Miscellaneous Licences, Objection and Appeal, registration for Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), processing of driver’s and motor vehicle licences services. Taxpayers will also benefit from information, assistance, advice, and support through tax advisory services.

Also, the compound space has a designed area that facilitates vehicles’ examination. Notably, with GRA’s new Optimal Revenue Management System (RMS), the NAIRTO is positioned to administer the tax laws and engage taxpayers in the Region through information and communication technology. The new office joins the list of other IRTOs that have benefited from upgrades/renovations in recent years. Among them are Mabaruma, Region One; Parika Region Three; Bartica, Region Seven; Corriverton Region Six and Linden, Region 10.

The release further noted that the upgrading of GRA properties will see the construction of the State’s Warehouse at Eccles and the overhauling of the Customs Boathouse at Stabroek.

Moreover, GRA expects to commence construction of its “MADHIA Regional Office” during 2023 and maintain a presence in Eteringbang.

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Contract signed for dredging of Pomeroon River mouth - engineer says this must be frequent for it to be effective in mitigating flooding

Six agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture on Tuesday signed a total of 35 contracts to the tune of $1,359,795,148 for a number of projects as part of the ministry’s 2022 capital programme.

The biggest of the contract, worth over half a billion dollar, went to Gaico Construction Company for the dredging of the mouth of t h e P o m e r o o n R i v e r.

Government said this project which will cost some $569.3M will mitigate flooding in the area.

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha said that “the dredging of the Pomeroon River mouth is a major project. You know the Pomeroon is prone to flooding. When those works are done, coupled with the continued block-drainage programme that continues this year, flooding in this area will be mitigated.”

Only recently in response to a letter from a resident of Pomeroon complaining about incessant flooding, engineer, Charles Sohan had said that the estuary of the Pomeroon River is constantly being silted by mud-banks moving along Guyana’s coastland in an E-W direction and

sediments in suspension are also being discharged by the River at its mouth as its fresh water mixes with the ocean’s salt water.

He said the crops grown along the banks of the River – citrus, coffee, coconuts, avocados, etc. cannot withstand any kind of flooding and therefore the cultivated areas have to be flood free if they are to be productive and profitable.

Sohan also noted in his letter that climate change is causing more intense rainfall in tropical Guyana including the Pomeroon with accompanying larger volumes of water being discharged from river catchments into the oceans.

He said to assist Pomeroon farmers to cope with these adverse environmental changes and protect their lands from recurring flooding, several improvements have to be made. First, he said the arable lands have to be protected with bunds and the River’s banks raised above their estimated flood levels.

Secondly, sluices/kokers should be installed on the banks of the River to drain the farmlands of excess water when water levels between the River and inland

drains are favourable to allow for outward gravity flows.

“When this is not possible, installed standby pumps take over to drain the lands of their excess water thereby protecting the valuable crops from flooding. This method has proven successful elsewhere along coastal Guyana.

Skeptics may claim otherwise since occasional flooding has occurred on some farmlands and even in Georgetown but this was not due to the system’s failure per se but to inadequate design, lack of maintenance, languid operation and poor management.”

As it relates to dredging Sohan did note that this is expensive as an investment for economic returns from farming. Further, he said dredging has to be a recurring operation for it to be effective.

Meanwhile, overseeing the signing of the contracts was Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha who told a gathering that the projects are aimed at enhancing and improving the agriculture infrastructure in the country.

“We know for a fact that now Guyana is leading the agriculture food system in

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha with the contract awardees yesterday.

Scenes from yesterday’s contract signing exercise.

the Caribbean and we will be hosting an Agriculture Investment Forum not too long from now, the 19th to 21st of May, that means a lot of investors will be coming to Guyana to invest in the agriculture sector. So we have to have the infrastructure in place. So many of these works that we will be signing are necessary for us to enhance our agriculture sector,” he explained.

Before the contracts were signed with the respective agencies, Minister Mustapha told

contractors that “I hope that when we go to manage the works it is completed in a timely basis.”

The six agencies that signed contracts were the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), the Mahaica Mahaicony Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA-ADA), the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Fisheries, and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

A t t h e M i n i s t r y ’s boardroom, MMA/ADA signed a contract with Farm Supplies Limited to the tune of $71,700,000 for the supply, delivery and testing of two super long reach hydraulic excavators; a contract worth $19,250,000 with Guyana Tractor & Equipment for the supply, delivery and testing of one new tractor; and the rehabilitation of the MMA/ADA Seed Processing Facility with DBL Group for $24,113,642.

GuySuCo signed two Continued on page 28

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Telemedicine trial to begin at new Nappi Village health post

M

inister of Health, Dr. F r a n k Anthony along with several other key officials from the Ministry of Health, on Tuesday officially opened a $13.6 million health post in the village of Nappi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo.)

The new facility will provide medication and other forms of treatment for persons suffering from diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and several other health issues. In his brief remarks at the simple opening ceremony, Dr. Anthony explained that the opening of the facility forms part of the PPP/C government's larger vision of improving the healthcare

sector, and providing easier access to these services.

Within this vision is the intention to establish a telemedicine system. Once implemented, the mechanism will allow for doctors in the capital city to easily contact Community Health Workers (CHW) in rural communities, to offer assistance when necessary.

“We can use the internet to be able to communicate with a doctor in Georgetown, and that doctor will work with the CHW or the nurse that is stationed here, to be able to make a diagnosis, and then offer treatment,” Dr Anthony highlighted. He also took the opportunity to encourage youngsters in the community to enroll in the

Nursing Assistant Training Programme in Lethem.

Meanwhile, Toshao of the village, Samuel Fredericks welcomed the facility, explaining that the health post will help the village to save finances, since transportation cost will be reduced.

“It will benefit us in many ways. Firstly, it will cut the cost from going to Lethem to seek the services that Lethem provides. It will now be done here in Nappi, so in terms of money it will cut down on that, and time,” Fredericks detailed.

The new healthcare facility is expected to provide around 215 health interventions for Nappi and the surrounding communities. (DPI)

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony cutting the ribbon for the facility.

Republic Group to give more focus to environmental governance

Dead, Makida Quick

Police ranks visiting Quick's relatives.

Police visit home of schoolgirl killed in accident

A

team of ranks from the Georgetown Police Division on Tuesday, visited the home of 14-year-old Makeida Quick, a school girl who was killed in an accident on Saturday.

Quick was at the time heading to visit her grandmother.

The young girl attended

the Tucville Secondary School and resided at Lot 688, Section D, Sophia.

Quick was reportedly riding her bicycle along the E Field access road when she was struck down by a speeding motorcyclist who according to police was performing stunts.

Visiting her loved ones on Tuesday were Superintendent, Carol

Harding, accompanied by Deputy Superintendent, Timothy Williams, Assistant Superintendent, Alvin Hoyte along with Inspectors, Gavin Boyce, Devon Lowe and other ranks within the Georgetown division.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) reported that the ranks expressed their

condolences to Quick's relatives and interacted with the still traumatised family members. The ranks assured them that a t h o r o u g h a n d c o m p r e h e n s i v e investigation will be conducted into the accident and no stone will be left unturned.

Support for the family was also promised.

Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) has amended its organisational structure to include a new Office of Sustainability, demonstrating its intent to integrate sustainability into its strategic and operational processes.

In a statement the Bank said the Office of Sustainability will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that will steer the Group's operations to incorporate ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) concerns. ESG factors are emerging as global b e n c h m a r k s f o r organizational accountability, profitability, efficiency and l o n g e v i t y. ” T h e U n i t ' s responsibilities will include d e v e l o p i n g a n d mainstreaming an ESG strategy for RFHL, coordinating the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) and reporting on the Group's sustainability journey locally, regionally and internationally.”

Leading this effort is the Group's Sustainability Officer, Ms. Tisha Marajh, who brings a wealth of

knowledge and experience to the position, the bank said.

Ms. Marajh has worked as a sustainability/communication s professional and environmental consultant on a range of local and international projects for over two decades. She holds Master and Bachelor Degrees from York and Carleton Universities in Canada, specializing in sustainability, environmental management and international development.

According to the bank, this appointment puts action t o t h e G r o u p ' s groundbreaking 2020 commitment to align with the Paris Agreement, the UNEP FI and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As the only Caribbean domiciled financial signatory to the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking and a founding member of the UNconvened Net Zero Banking Alliance, the Group has also set an ambitious US$200 million climate finance goal to help mitigate against climate change and build resilient infrastructure across the fourteen territories in which it operate.

Wednesday April 06, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

Eight new Covid-19 cases; two patients in ICU

W

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The Ministry in its latest dashboard recorded eight new infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 63,340.

Out of the number of confirmed cases, 34,182 individuals are women while 29,158 are men.

The dashboard data further shows that nine persons are in institutional isolation, 98 are in home isolation and 15 are in institutional quarantine. To date, a total of 62,005 persons have recovered from the virus.

Food and Drugs Dept. warns consumers of...

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From page 18 Notably, food contaminated with the bacteria may not look or smell spoilt but can make you sick.

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Taxi Dispatcher.Experience only,salary $28,000 wkly.

Contact GR Taxi Ganesh on 614-6202.

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

Keyfood Trading,Mc Doom village.

FOR SALE Mature Palms & Trees.Get a head start now,so you can enojy later.Call:612-1848/ 648-1821.

6-4 & 5 bedroom house at Schoonord,1-3 story building at Zeelugt,1-3 bedroom at Blankenburg.Contact:6500402/652-0251.

Prime business spot(1/2 acre land) @Parika, house lots at Blanken burg,double lot at Tushen. Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251.

2 Construction Manager wanted to work with construction company.Contact Seema on 226-9416.

1 male to work on Chicken Farm in the interior.Must have knowledge about poultry farming.Contact:680-2702.

One Housekeeper.Must be able to cook,45-60 yrs old.

Must be living E.B.D. One handyman/store help, 6954785/265-3541.

Bar girls,Male Porter & Female cook for Interior. Contact:687-7638/660-9093.

TOURS

VACANCY

TOURS!Independence weekend trio to Suriname: May 26th-29th, 2022. Tel: 639-2663/673-2348.

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

VACANCY

Plant Shop Sales Staff.Age 18-30.Must be able to read & write,work outdoors & team player.Call:646-2108.

Vacancy for 2 experienced hairdresser.Location Grove E.B.D,Tel:652-5800.

For porters.Apply in person to Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda.

Pitmen,Serviceman,Hauler Operator for interior location.

Applicants must be experienced. Call:231-2250.

One clerk for TSI Eccles office English & Math, grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to techserigy @yahoo.com.

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

Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area.Call:615-9132.

Long term complications may include severe arthritis.

Most people with Salmonella infection have diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.

Symptoms usually begin six hours to six days after infection and last four to seven days.

However, some people do not develop symptoms for several weeks after infection and others experience symptoms for several weeks.

As such, the agency is advising citizens, who became sick from consuming the recalled product, to call a doctor or visit the nearest hospital, health center or clinic.

The GA-FDD is also alerting consumers that there is a potential for unidentified international redistribution from the importing countries listed on the INFOSAN (International Food Safety Authorities Network) website to ad-

ditional countries.

Therefore, the GA-FDD will be working closely with the Environmental Health Departments in each region to ensure that the specific lot codes subject to the recall, if found, are removed from the local market.

Further information concerning this public advisory could be found on the gafdd.gy website or call 2228858/60 for further guidance.

Contract signed for dredging...

From page 23 contracts, one with General Equipment Guyana Limited worth $143,155,423 for the supply and delivery of two complete sets of land leveling equipment, and with Triveni Turbine to the tune of $53,483,500 for the supply and delivery of one single stage steam turbine for the Uitvlugt Factory.

GMC signed two contracts with Farm Supplies Limited- one for the supply and delivery of a generator for the agency worth $8,500,000 and the other for the supply and delivery of a forklift for the agency for the tune of $12,882,000. The Corporation also signed contracts with Webster Engineering & Consultancy to the tune of $13,593,500 for the supply and delivery of an agro- processing equipment for White Water Creek located in Region One and another with National Refrigeration for $5,651,200 for the supply and delivery of chiller for GMC. The Fisheries Department signed three contracts totalling $20,776,869 with General Marine Company for the supply and delivery of HDPE pipes for Brakish Water Shrimp Project. NAREI signed two contracts, one

with CB & Associates Inc. to the sum of $8,994,600 for the execution of geotechnical investigation along foreshores of Perth to Paradise, Essequibo Coast, and the other with Digital Technology Group & Company Inc. for $8,884,325 and this is for the supply, delivery and installation of computer server for NAREI. Out of the 35 contracts, NDIA signed 20. In addition to the dredging of the Pomeroon River- NDIA also signed contracts with BS Narine & Sons to the tune of $56,153,600 for the construction of access road at Onderneeming, Region Two; S. Jagmohan Construction & General Supplies Inc. to the tune of $52,564,000 for the rehabilitation of NDIA pontoons in Regions Two, Six and 10.

A contract was also awarded to Advanced Engineering to the sum of $67,714,970 for the construction of NDIA office and living quarters and another with Kascon Engineering Service to the tune of $29,576,310 for the construction of irrigation structure and rehabilitation of flood embankment at Kartberaad Mara, East Bank Berbice.

Three contracts worth $35,485,000 were signed with A&S General Store for empoldering of farmlands in the Upper Pomeroon River, while two were signed with S&J Services and Supplies for $27,023,000 for the same project.

Similarly, Adamantium Holdings was awarded three contracts to the tune of $38,280,000 for empoldering of farmlands in the Lower Pomeroon River, while A&S General Store was awarded the same project for $13,360,000 and Arabzee Trading for the same contract to the tune of $13,654,200.

The empoldering of farmlands in Supenaam Creek project was awarded to Zaiboon Nesha Investments to the tune of $13,419,866, A.Nazier & Son Contracting and General Supplies for $7,932,240 and Wild Oats Civil and Mechanical Engineering to the sum of $12,391,160.

Paramlall Goberdhan Contracting was awarded a contract of $12, 875,240 for the empoldering of farmlands in Bethany Creek.

Lastly, SRKN’gineering & Associates Limited was awarded a $10,594,000 for foundation and installation of storage plant for corn and soya beans.

Wednesday April 13, 2022

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Levoy Taljit s disappearance …

Man found with his cellphone 9 years ago now wanted for his murder

P

olice are now saying that Levoy Taljit the former Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), employee, who mysteriously disappeared in December 2012, was murdered and the man they believe killed him was found with his cell phone some nine years ago.

On Tuesday the Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued a wanted bulletin for Ryvan Shervin Francis, 44, a Soesdyke man.

GPF stated in the bulletin that Francis is wanted for questioning in relation to the murder of Levoy Taljit which took place sometime between December 23 and 24, 2012.

It was stated that the murder might have taken place at Soesdyke on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

Anyone who might know the whereabouts of the suspect is asked to make contact with police on telephone numbers, 216-0251, 216-0254, 4443429, 225-6978, 225-816 or the nearest police station.

Francis whose last known address was Lot 4B Sharma Alley, Soesdyke, EBD, was the same man that police had detained on January 4, 2013 just 10 days after Taljit had disappeared.

He was 32-year-old at the time and police were able to locate him tracing Taljits cellphone.

Taljit was 25-years-old when he went missing and was last seen leaving his home in his Toyota Raum motorcar, PNN 8315 around 14:00hrs on December 23, 2012.

He was dressed in a burgundy tee-shirt and faded blue jeans. After he failed to return home a missing per-

sons report was filed and a search was launched.

Five days later on December 28, his car was found abandoned in the Yarrowkabra backlands along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway but there were no signs of Taljit.

With absence of fresh footprints investigators were able to work out that the car had been taken there days before it was found.

It did not take them long to make a breakthrough by locating Taljits phone.

They found that Francis was using his phone and had placed a new sim card inside but police were still able to track him down.

He was detained and while in custody he made some startling claims.

He admitted that he was the one that had taken Taljits car to the location where it was found, but had told police that he took it there at the behest of the missing man.

Francis even handed over the missing mans bank card and drivers licence to police.

The suspect had assured the investigators too, that there was nothing to worry about because Taljit was alive and well and had contacted him from Parimarbo Suriname, but later said that it was a lie.

He however did say that Taljit was his friend and they had communicated extensively via an internet site.

Police had even arrested Francis relatives too but in the end, they had to let them go because there was not enough evidence to pin Francis to Taljits disappearance. The case went cold for nine years but investigators continued to look for leads.

Believed to have been killed, Levoy Taljit

Wanted for Taljits murder, Ryvan Shervin Francis.

Taljits car that was found abandoned at Yarrowkabra Speaking with Kaietuer News on Tuesday Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum said his investigators were able to make new breakthroughs and obtain new information. This new information has led them to believe that Taljit was murdered and Francis might be the one who ended his life.

Police stopped short of revealing any more details on how they were able to determine that Taljit was killed.

Breakfast programme for schools in Regions Five and Six President Ali President Irfaan Ali has announced that his Government is working on launching a school feeding programme before the end of the year that will see vulnerable school children benefitting from free breakfast.

The initiative will benefit students in Regions Five and Six. The aim of the programme, according to the Head of State, is to ensure that children in the regions have proper nourishments that will promote learning.

He said that along with promoting education and health, the initiative will bring tens of millions of dollars in investment to the region.

“These are the real programmes and policies.

These are not fantasies.

These are not illusions, these are fundamental policies and programmes that the Government is bringing to the children.”

The President also announced that the Government intends to ensure that textbooks are provided to all secondary school students in 2022.

“Im committing to you now that the resources to provide the textbooks for the children in the secondary schools will be available this year.”

The President said that some $108m has already been

spent on the provision of textbooks for students in the region.

He reminded the residents also that tens of thousands of children have benefitted from other initiatives.

The Government has spent over $700m in the region on the uniform allowance and the “Because we care” cash grant.

And imagine we still have to get up to $50,000 per child before the end of this [Presidential] term, so that will almost triple in three years.

That is the type of investment the Government is making to the children, to women and vulnerable groups.”

(DPI)

Taljits father, Basil Taljit said that investigators had called him too and said we crack the case but they did not divulge any other information to him.

As it relates to the new development Taljit senior, related, “We have been insisting and insisting that the suspect now wanted in connection with his death had knowledge about what happen to my son”. He is now question-

ing what took police so long to solve the case and figure out that the man they had found with Taljits belongings nine years ago might be re-

sponsible for his disappearance. Nevertheless, he is hoping that if indeed the suspect had killed his son justice is served.

PAGE 30

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 31

GRA to spend $220M for new Licence Office yth and Princess Streets, Georgetown.

According to a GRA press release, in their effort to support the expansion of operations and offer more effective and efficient systems and services to the general public, the entity has commenced reconstruction of its Licence Revenue Office.

It was stated that the new $220M facility is slated for completion within the first half of 2023.

The modern facility is expected to provide all licences and motor vehicle related transactions and offers a more efficient and comfortable office space for both staff and taxpayers.

In December 2021, the An artist’s impression of the new $220M GRA Licence Office.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) will be spending $220 million to construct a new Licence Office at S m

operations were relocated to GRA’s Parking Lot, Lamaha Railway Embankment. The temporary office facilitates registration, transfer, and examination of various categories of motor vehicles – while other services, such as the issuance of driver’s and miscellaneous licences are processed at the GRA Headquarters, Camp Street.

As a reminder, the agency stated that the payments for services provided by the Licence Revenue Office can be facilitated through MMG, Bill Express. GRA is also encouraging customers to utilize the internet/online bill payment services at any of the following banking institutions; Demerara Bank, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry and Republic Bank.

PAGE 32

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Wednesday April 13, 2022

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News

Holders Chelsea exit Champions League after epic Villarreal stun Bayern Munich to reach semi-finals BBC Sport - Chelsea’s reign as European champions came to an agonising end despite beating Real Madrid on a night of high drama at the Bernabeu Stadium.

In a Champions League epic, Mason Mount’s wonderful finish and Antonio Rudiger’s powerful header wiped out Real’s 3-1 first-leg advantage and brought the quarter-final tie level in Spain’s capital.

Thomas Tuchel’s side were outstanding throughout and Timo Werner’s clever finish from an angle put them ahead for the first time on aggregate and within sight of a place in the semi-finals.

Karim Benzema celebrates his extra time winner against Chelsea.

But substitute Rodrygo forced extra time with a volleyed finish before Karim Benzema, hat-trick hero in the first leg at Stamford Bridge six days ago, headed the deci-

sive goal in the 96th minute to send Real through 5-4 on aggregate.

Benzema, who had earlier headed against the bar on a rollercoaster night, was un-

Wednesday April 13, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) AToday you could discover a talent for investment, real estate, or other form of money management that you never thought you had, Aries.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You might wake up today feeling a little grumpy and out of sorts, Taurus. You could aspire to nothing more strenuous than spending the day without any distractions other than a good book.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Some pretty heavy soul searching could reveal that the time has come to make use of a talent you may have always had but never developed.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You're looking good and your social skills are at their peak, Cancer.

Therefore, social events and group activities that you might attend today could well be the most satisfying and beneficial you've known in a long time.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Sex and romance should be at the top of your priority list today, Libra. You should be feeling especially warm, loving, and passionate.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) A lack of communication on the part of your mate or perhaps a business partner can cause you to feel uncertainty about the relationship.

Don't fall into this trap, Scorpio.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) The right moment to ask for a raise or apply for a promotion or new job could come your way today, but you'd better make use of it or the opportunity could pass you by.

A chance for a romantic encounter or fun evening with friends could also come up.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Love and romance are definitely on the agenda for today, Capricorn, and you should be feeling warm, passionate, and particularly sexy.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you could find yourself brainstorming a way to put your inventiveness and ingenuity to work so that you can advance your career by leaps and bounds and increase your income.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A friend or family member could be feeling rather grim, taciturn, and not open to communication. He or she could have you wondering if you've done something wrong, or they're angry with you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Y An intense study of philosophy, religion, or some other exalted school of thought could find you involved with a group that shares your interest in the subject.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A warm, loving phone call or letter could come your way today from a lover or close friend who's presently out of town. You'll wish with all your heart that he or she could be home!

Real Madrid last won the Champions League in 2018. (Getty Images) marked when he scored to break Chelsea’s hearts after Rudiger slipped inside the box.

In the end Chelsea, who played superbly, were made to pay for their first-leg performance as Tuchel’s side just fell short of producing one of the great comebacks in the competition.

Meanwhile, Samuel Chukwueze scored a late winner in the tie as Villarreal stunned Bayern Munich to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in 16 years.

Unai Emery masterminded a 1-0 first-leg win in Spain, but a dominant Bayern looked seemingly in control once Robert Lewandowski broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute at the Allianz Arena.

But, with just his side’s second shot on target across both legs, Chukwueze levelled on the break in the 88th minute to give Villarreal the lead on aggregate - and earn them an historic victory against the six-time European champions.

They will face the winner of Liverpool versus Benfica in the last four, a contest Jurgen Klopp’s side currently lead 3-1 on aggregate.

NSC's Teach...

From page 35 like to use the opportunity to ask the coaches and participants to adhere to the precautionary measures,” Campbell lamented.

Meanwhile, GASA's president, Dwayne Scott, said he was happy to see the massive turnout, adding, “I hope this transfers interest into reality and this interest can be developed into potential swimmers; potential national representatives for Guyana.”

The NSC's Teach Them Young swimming programme is over 25 years old and started under the tenure of former Director of Sport, Neil Kumar and is held during the schools' Easter vacation period.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 34

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Guyana Committee of Service NSC commits supports CARIFTA Games athletes $3M to Women's Hockey team for CAC qualifiers

Leslie Blacks of the Guyana Committee of Service made presentations to each of the CARIFTA Games athletes and Team Manager, Nadine Trotz prior to their departure today for Jamaica.

T

he Guyana Committee of Service has once again stepped up to be a benefactor for local sportsmen and women.

Yesterday, two of its members, Leslie Blacks and Linden 'Jumbie' J o n e s m a d e presentations of cash to each of the CARIFTA Games athletes prior to their departure today for Jamaica.

The tokens of

appreciation according to Blacks are to help offset whatever personal needs may arise in the 'Land of Wood and Water' during their sojourn.

During the April 16-18 Games, Guyana will be represented by 14 track and field standouts.

The athletes selected are as follows: U-17 Girls Narissa McPherson (800m), Attoya Harvey (800m, 1500m, 3000m)

U-17 Boys Javon Roberts (800m) U-20 Girls Keliza Smith (100m, 200m), Karese Lloyd (100m, 200m), Hannah Reid (400m), Adriel Austin (800m), Anisha Gibbons (javelin) U-20 Boys Shamar Horatio (100m, 200m), Ezekiel Newton (100m, 200m), Wesley Ty n d a l l ( l o n g j u m p ) , Gabriel Lim (javelin and discus), Trevon Hamer

(triple jump), Stafon Roach (triple jump) Notes: When the last CARIFTA Games were staged in 2019 in the Cayman Islands, Guyana's record 21-athlete contingent finished with nine medals, four gold, two silver and three bronze.

Sham Johnny and Raymond Daw will act in the capacity of coaches on the sojourn to Jamaica.

Nadine Trotz is the Team Manager.

The National Sports Commission recently presented $3M to the country's female national Hockey team, heading off to this year's Central American and Caribbean Games qualifying tournament in Hamilton, Bermuda.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, made a simple presentation to members of the team recently and wished the players the best of luck on behalf of the NSC and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Guyana will be hoping to be one of the two teams advancing from the April 14 – 17 tournament and will flick off their campaign on the event's opening day against Puerto Rico.

After facing the tournament's highest-ranked team, Guyana will play Bermuda on April 16 and close their participation on April 17 against Jamaica.

According to the tournament rules, the top two teams after the round-robin play will qualify for the 2022 CAC Games Hockey, San Salvador, El Salvador, in May 2023.

Guyana last competed in the CAC games back in 2018 when the team finished in seventh place out of eight.

Seven players remain from the team that contested the last CAC Games which incidentally was the last time Guyana competed internationally.

Those players are goalkeeper Alysa Xavier, Trisha Woodroffe, Marzana Fiedtkou, Samantha Fernandes, Princessa Wilkie, Captain Gabriella Xavier and the recently recalled defensive stalwart Ulrica Sutherland.

Meanwhile, Coach Phillip Fernandes said he's excited about the new additions to this strong core of players as making their international outdoor debut would be speedy strikers Sarah Klautky, Abosaide Cadogan, and Claysa Bobb, midfielder Madison Fernandes and defenders Kezia Chinian, Makeda Harding, Mickelly Rahaman and Kirsten Gomes.

Fernandes was particularly pleased also with the return from injury of striker Aliyah Gordon, who is a key playmaker for the team.

Apart from receiving support from the NSC, the team is sponsored by GTT, John Fernandes Group of companies and the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

Dube and Uthappa run...

Members of the Guyana Committee of Service made presentations of tokens to each of the CARIFTA Games athletes and Team Manager, Nadine Trotz prior to their departure today for Jamaica.

7-a-side Softball Cricket set for Sunday at Zorg D. Gobin Agric Spares will be staging a 7-a-side knock out Softball Cricket competition in honour of the late Clive Gobin. Action commences at 09:30hrs and matches will be played

on the beautiful Zorg beach and ground.

All prizes will be sponsored by Mr. Derrick Gobin and family. The competition is open to all teams while

there is a surprise package for the first five teams that registered. Teams can contact Ms. Divine Ross on 673-7427 or Ms. Debra Daniels on 683-7807 for registration.

From page 37 that run looked slim by the fifth over, when Virat Kohli (1) followed Faf du Plessis (8) back to the dressing room.

Maheesh Theekshana dismissed the former South Africa captain and soon sent Anuj Rawat (12) packing.

Glenn Maxw e l l ’s flurry came to an end on 26 and Theekshana rounded off a brilliant spell with the wickets of Suyash Prabhudessai (34) and Shahbaz Ahmed (41) to finish with figures of 4-33, before Jadeja (3-39) took two more to restrict Bangalore to 193-9.

Losing start a good omen for Chennai?

The Super Kings needed

that victory and with it coming in such emphatic fashion, they may now look back to the 2010 IPL. That editiona 12 years ago was the only other time they have opened up with four losses, yet they went on to win the competition.

Chennai keep up Bangalore hoodoo Chennai have now won 11 of their past 13 games against Bangalore in the IPL, including four on the bounce.

Against no other team have they won more games in the competition (19).

Scores: Chennai Super Kings 216 for 4 (Dube 95*, Uthappa 88) beat Royal Challengers Bangalore 193 for 9 (Shahbaz 41, Karthik 34, Theekshana 4-33) by 23 runs.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Pepsi Mike Parris Boxing C/Ships...

Keyon Britton adjudged Best boxer Nineteen bouts where held with 45 boxers from five Gyms participating in the Mike Parris Boxing Championships over the weekend at the Andrew 'six head' Gym. Keyon Britton of Vergenoogen boxing gym got the best boxer prize and Miss Donola Bristol got the best R/J prize, Rose Hall Jammer boxing gym got the Runner up best gym with 4 points and the Young Achievers boxing g y m a n d Ve rg e n o o g e n boxing gym got joint Champion Gyms with 5 points each.

Bout one Gemuel Jones VBG beat Malachi Vanderstoop RJBG 2. Jafar Primo YA defeat Akeem Chung VBG

3. Keyon Britton VBG defeat Marcus Humphrey RJBG 4. Simeon Jones VBG defeat JahieemVanveen PPBG 5. Ceaafa Butler YA defeat Isiah Nurse RJBG 6. Adelle Peters PPBG defeat Malcome Martin YA 7. Ezeikel Bancroft YA defeat Jaden Lewis RJBG 8. Markel Blue VBG defeat Leon Reid PPBG 9. Shawn Sabola RJBG defeat Tyrese Booker 10. Travis Sancho RJBG defeat Raj Singh YA 11. Matthew Thomas RJBG defeat Tifari Hudson YA 12. Aubrey Austin RJBG defeat Khumda Alexander PPBG

13. Tiquan Sampson FYF defeat Jevon Gibson YA 14. Triston Obrian defeat Arlinton Johnson RJBG 15. Eon Bancroft YA defeat Javon Anthony VBG 16. Jerimiah Duncan PPBG defeat Anthony Hercules BJBG 17. Chance Niles FYF defeat Donovon Welcome YA 18. Alex Adams VBG defeat Jahuan Haniff RJBG 19. Jamal Williams PPBG defeat Christopher Williams VBG G B A ' s Te c h n i c a l Director Terrence Poole said that this was the biggest turnout since this programme commenced added that standard is improving.

NSC's Teach Them Young swimming programme hits G/T, Linden & Berbice The National Sports Commission on Monday launched its annual 'Teach T h e m Yo u n g ' E a s t e r vacation swimming programme at the Colgrain Pool.

The programme, which caters for children ages 6 – 16, will conclude on April 22 and will be conducted by a team of qualified coaches.

Linden (Watooka Pool) and Berbice (Albion) will also host the programme for children in their respective areas.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, welcomed the large group of children at the refurbished swimming facility in the City while telling the gathering that the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, insisted on making the programme free of charge, to accommodate as many participants as possible.

Ramson, Ninvalle said, was the driving force behind the programme's return for the first time since the advent of COVID-19.

“I just want to urge the organisers, that safety be the watchword…with that in mind, we will make sure that there's an ambulance here to make sure that the parents will be comfortable knowing that the children

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle

GASA President – Dwayne Scott are well taken care of,” Ninvalle said.

With swimming being one of the core sports identified by the NSC and Ministry, Ninvalle is hoping

that the Government's academy for swimmers is given the same reception as their holiday swimming programme.

Cristy Campbell, one of the NSC's commissioners, told the gathering of parents, guardians and other officials of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA), “When this programme concludes, it will not be the end of the development of talent, because, in another two weeks, we are also preparing to launch the National Swimming Academy.”

“You can look forward to our continued support for swimming, and I would also (Continued on page 33)

Best boxer Keyon Britton collects his prize from Dr. Marissa Parris.

PAGE 35

Kaieteur News

PAGE 36

Wednesday April 13, 2022

GFF publishes 2021 annual report sees significant progress despite COVID-19 The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has published its 2021 annual report, in line with FIFA and Concacaf regulations, as part of its efforts to promote transparency and financial accountability in sports administration.

Despite the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the report charts the significant progress made by the GFF in developing football across Guyana, including the roll out of an unprecedented funding, equipment and technical support scheme for its members – called M-FAP – which provides regional associations, clubs and affiliates with the resources required to deliver a full portfolio of competitions and development activities each

year.

The report, which can be found and read in full in the Media/Publications section of the GFF's website (guyanafootball.org), supports the GFF's commitment to sharing its strategic priorities and use of funds with the football community and wider public to encourage greater transparency and informed debate across the field of sports administration in Guyana.

“As a founding principle of good governance, every administrative body in sport should publish an annual report, including an independently audited financial statement,” said GFF President Wayne Forde. “The public has a right to see how

we allocate the resources we receive from FIFA, Concacaf, the Government of Guyana and our corporate partners, as this can only improve the quality of scrutiny about our work and spur us on do to better each year.”

“Not only is a comprehensive annual report vital for good governance and accountability, it also allows the public to find out about the full impact and breadth of the work of organisations such as the GFF,” Forde added. “We have a long way to go, but I hope the public will agree that football governance and development in Guyana has been transformed in recent years. Despite its obvious challenges, 2021 was a landmark year for football

Concacaf W Championship Qualifiers...

Lady Jags fall short in pulsating stalemate

B

development.”

Key highlights from 2021 include: * Roll out of the Members Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP) * Launch of Guyana's first national U13 boys' competition * Launch of Guyana's first year-end female tournament

* U17 girls' national team reaches back-to-back Concacaf championship for first time * Jamaal Shabazz returns as Head Coach of the Golden Jaguars * Relaunch of the nationwide network of GFF Academy Training Centres

* Plan for Guyana's first professional league with UEFA Assist/Concacaf * Guyana selected as CARICOM pilot for FIFA Football for Schools programme * Minibus provided to Rupununi Football Association

Dada's Grill and Bar donates B-ball Court to Vergenoegen Secondary School

Sydney Cummings

attling in a must win situation, Guyana's Senior Women's National Team put forth a commendable performance against Trinidad and Tobago, but fell short of a much needed victory.

The match which unfolded at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in the Twin Island Republic ended in a 22 stalemate which means T&T have topped Group F of the Qualifiers and has advanced to the Concacaf W Championship.

T&T finished the competition with ten points ahead of the Guyana side which ended their campaign

Wayne Forde GFF President

on eight points.

Guyana were led by the impressive Sydney Cummings who contributed a brace, while T&T were propelled by well timed goals from Asha James and Lauryn Hutchinson.

In the first half the teams shared even possession but the Lady Warriors were never afraid to finish their build up of plays with a shot at goal.

They kept probing but the Lady Jags were the ones to draw first blood on the brink of half time through an alert finish from Cummings.

After the 15 minute break, the home side kept on pressing and were

immediately rewarded with a penalty. James' successful strike brought the game level in the 48th minute.

The second half saw both sides matching aggressive plays until Guyana regained the lead when Cummings struck again in the 82nd minute.

However, Hutchinson was the hero for the night in front of the home crowd when she found the back of the net in the 90th minute from a goalmouth scrimmage from a cross.

The regulation whistle sounded soon after with T&T completing a remarkable come-frombehind result.

Recently, the proprietor of Dada's Grill and Bar, Ken Rampersaud and D-Up Basketball Group of Tuschen Village handed over the full use of a basketball court equipped with all the necessities to the Vergenoegen Secondary School.

The gesture was received by the Head Teacher of the school, Gregory George, who was very appreciative of the kind-hearted gesture.

The Principal assured that the gesture will go a long way in keeping the students' active, turning them into

well rounded individuals overtime and providing a home for the sport in the school. He added too, it is comforting to the private sector giving back to Guyana.

The half court playing area came equipped with an adjustable, mobile fibre glass backboard and hoop aligned with professional standard markings and an official ball, which was donated by the D-Up Basketball Group.

Speaking with proprietor of the establishment (Dada's), who is well aware

of his social responsibility and on the side of assisting humanity, he disclosed that this donation is the first of many great things to come and decided, what better place to start than close to home.

At the request of the principal following effective engagements with Rampersaud, the court that has an approximation of GYD$400,000 was constructed and has now opened numerous opportunities for the students of the Secondary School.

nd

nd Vergenoegen Secondary School Principal, Gregory George (2 left), receives the ball donated by the D-Up Basketball Group, on the newly commissioned basketball court in the school's compound.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

PAGE 37

Ex-PM player and Executive, Denesh Chandrapaul “Cricket Gear for young and on board with Project promising cricketers in Guyana” Denesh Chandrapaul is the latest person to come on board this initiative. He is a former player and executive of the historic Port Mourant Cricket Club in Corentyne Berbice, a club that has produced some of the best West Indian Test cricketers in the Caribbean like John Trim, Ivan Madray, Basil Butcher, Joe Solomon, Rohan Kanhai and Mahendra Nagamootoo. He was also a professional scorer for Berbice, Guyana Cricket Boards and NCN Radio.

Chandrapaul has donated a junior set of gear which includes a bag, a pair of batting pads, one pair of batting gloves, one helmet, a thigh pad and one bat.

This initiative is jointly between Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA. The bag with gear was handed over to Beharry in Fort Lauderdale, Florida last weekend. Beharry was participating in Flood Cup 2022 Over50 Category representing Wellman Masters.

Speaking on behalf of the initiative, Beharry expressed gratitude to the donor. He added that he is positive that a new breed of young players will come through the system, making Guyana and West Indies cricket strong again and is convinced that sports in general helps to keep our young people off the streets and an avenue to a better life.

Total cricket related items collected so far: $130,000 cash, two trophies, eleven cricket boots, sixteen pairs of batting pads, sixteen bats, ten pairs of batting gloves, nineteen thigh pads, one wicket keeping pad, one arm guard, five cricket bags and one helmet. In addition to $600,000 worth in gear.

To date, thirty-two young players from all three counties of Guyana

Denesh Chandrapaul

have already benefited from a junior gear bag, two trophies, nine bats, nine pairs of cricket shoes, six pairs of batting pads and seven pairs of batting gloves.

In addition, the Rose Hall Estate Cricket Club benefited from a pair of stumps and bails and two clubs in the Pomeroon area benefited from two used bats.

Pomeroon, Leguan and Wa k e n a a m C r i c k e t Committees, Cotton Tree Die Hard and Rose Hall CCCC also received one box of red cricket balls each.

Cricket related items, used or new, will be distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders will also assist to identify talent.

DeSinco National Junior Chess Championship…

Ethan Lee grinds to assume the lead

I

n what was perhaps the most highly anticipated showdown of the day, Ethan Lee defeated Rajiv Lee to assume the lead in the National Junior Chess Championship Qualifiers.

The three and a half hour game saw Rajiv and Ethan play a game of pressure and patience where they both were down on time.

The opening laid the foundation for the game where Ethan exerted the initial pressure and it was up to Rajiv to refute it.

Like every good tale, the game hit its peak, where a single move by Rajiv relieved the pressure and played a drawn position, or spell disaster if miscalculated.

Unfortunately, the latter had manifested, leading Rajiv to scramble to hold on against a slew of new threats from Ethan. The new strain on the position led to a losing endgame for Rajiv, allowing Ethan to walk away victorious.

As the points stand, at the end of six rounds, Ethan and Ricardo Narine have

both secured their place in the Junior Nationals regardless of their results in matches the following day.

Narine defeated all of his opponents until he faced Ethan in the sixth round which resulted in a stalemate. They now each

across the board as both players attempted to gain the edge on the other.

Tactically rich positions followed and rich positions present lucrative opportunities. Couchman slipped in his calculation just before the endgame,

The organisers take this opportunity to thank Javed and Imran of West Indian Sports Complex, Option Group of USA, Hilbert Foster, Bish Panday of P and P Insurance Brokers, Sean Devers, Trevis Simon, Årïêl J. Tïlkú, Aaron Beharry, Leanna Bachan and Imran Saccoor, Devon Ramnauth, Teddy Singh, Romesh Munna, Ravi Etwaroo, Ravin Harkishun, Surendra Harkishun, Allan Mangru, Vishal Mahabir, Sherman Austin, Huburn Evans, Rajendra Sadeo and Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports Awards and Trophies and Ajay Gainda of Cricket Equipment Guyana, Peter Ramkissoon, Rabindranath Saywack, Roshan Gaffoor, Ameer Rahaman, Denesh Chandrapaul and Dr Cecil Beharry. Thanks to the media for the role they are playing in promoting this venture.

Distribution will continue.

Anyone interested to contribute can contact Anil Beharry on 623-6875 or Kishan Das on 1-718-664-0896.

Robin Uthappa and Shivam Dube added 165 runs for the third wicket.

•Apr 11, 2022•BCCI

Couchman erred one last time, allowing the position to be converted from a draw to a win for Singh, ending the day.

Couchman now sits on 4 points and has it all to play for in the final round as he takes on Angel Rahim, also

Keron Sandiford battled Sasha Shariff on the penultimate day.

Dube and Uthappa run riot as Super Kings claim first IPL win of 2022

have 5.5 points. Coming in at 5 points are Rajiv Lee, Ronan Lee, Matthew Singh and Keron Sandiford.

The day ended as a clash on board 5 occurred between Queen's College students Matthew Singh and Kyle Couchman. Singh emerged the winner over 12-year old Couchman.

From the beginning, unorthodox play ripped

allowing Singh to gain enormous progress by winning material.

Couchman, however, would make Singh work for his victory.

Three and a half hours of play led to blunders by both sides, as Singh lost his advantage, rendering the game a theoretical draw.

As the game came to a close, an exhausted

on four points.

Jaden Taylor, clawing his way back to 13th place, will be hoping to win his last game and maybe have a chance for a place in the top 10.

About 15 players are jostling for the last five places and it will be an intriguing final round for place in the prestigious Junior Championship.

SportsMax - Chennai Super Kings claimed their first win of the Indian Premier League season as they dispatched Royal Challengers Bangalore by 23 runs.

Robin Uthappa and Shivam Dube were the stars of the show for Chennai, who had lost their opening four games but reached 2164 from their 20 overs.

Uthappa hit 88 from just 50 balls, with his explosive knock including nine sixes, one of which brought up a 100-run partnership with

Dube, who struck a blistering unbeaten 95 from 46 deliveries.

Dube launched eight sixes and five fours in a masterclass as the RCB attack was slayed.

Wanindu Hasaranga (235) ended Uthappa’s stand in the 19th over and dismissed Ravindra Jadeja with the next ball, yet Dube added 15 to the total from the final six deliveries.RCB had come out on top in their previous three games but their chances of extending (Continued on page 34 )

Kaieteur News

PAGE 38

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Hard Rock Cafe throws hat into Boxing Ring in Guyana

H

ard Rock Cafe, known for f a b u l o u s entertainment and quality food worldwide has touched gloves with the promoters of the 'Road to Redemption' boxing event (Nexgen Global Marketing, Jack Bharat and Dharry Promotions) that is being produced in association with The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Guyana Boxing Board, which will be held on April 23rd inside the Guyana National Stadium in Providence.

At a press conference held at their location at Movietowne, General Manager Bernard Chavez of the internationally branded restaurant announced that they will provide all food and beverages for the VVIP, VIP, Ringside and President's Pavilion along with their top notch service, "Once in a

while a major event such as this double WBC International Title fight comes along and we realized that this is a first for Guyana and wanted to ensure that Guyanese and the world are treated not only to the best in boxing but the best in food, drinks and service."

The Elton Dharry/Dexter Marques Fight Card, which brings international attention to Guyana's sports development has been given the full support of the government with Vice President Bharat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Minister Charles Ramson jr all demonstrating their commitment and providing massive resources to ensure the success of the event.

The Fight will be broadcasted locally and internationally according to the head of NCN Mr. Neaz

GBBC President Peter Abdool (2nd from left) with, from left, promoter Aleem Hussain of Nexgen Global Marketing, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, Bernard Chavez and Raymond Gavinda.

Subhan, "We have done several events with the Guyana Boxing Board and are confident that Devon and our team will deliver excellent quality and companies can advertise with us at extremely competitive rates on the 23rd."

In addition to the packed action in the ring, there will

be a halftime show put on by HJ Entertainment featuring top local artistes and dancer to showcase Guyanese talent to the world.

Many major sponsors and new companies in Guyana such as Demerara Mutual Life Insurance, Comfort Sleep, Samtronix, Morgan's Investment, Hand in Hand

Insurance, Unique Electrical, Caribbean Motor Spares, H RT N C o n s u l t i n g , Darthan Investments, Tu r b o E n e r g y D r i n k , SuperBet, Demerara Distillers Ltd (DDL) along with dozens of o v e r s e a s b a s e d Guyanese companies are supporting the

event.

Tickets, priced as low as $1,000 for this amazing event are on sale at Giftland, Movietowne, Amazonia Malls, all Assuria General Insurance offices nationwide, The Locals Restaurant in Vreed-en-hoop and Fagoo's General Store in Parika.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

PAGE 39

BK Quarry backs Bartica Easter Regatta

Colin Croft receiving his Windies Masters cap from the O60s Manager, Dave Narine.

Mr. Rickford Innis of BK Quarry (left) hands over-contribution to Magiva Gonsalves of the Regatta Committee.

B

K Quarry, located in the Mazaruni River is the latest business entity to throw its support behind the Bartica Easter Regatta 2022 which is being held under the theme, ' B o u n c e B a c k ' .

Activities have already commenced, an exciting football tourney got underway on Saturday last at the Bartica Community Centre Ground while Gospel Fest was hosted on Monday n i g h t l a s t .

A longtime partner of the Regatta activities, BK Quarry through its representative, Mr. Rickford Innis made a financial contribution towards this year's activities on Monday last.

Innis noted that his company was pleased to see

the event making a comeback after being put on hold for two years as a result of covid19.

“We are elated to see this event, the main staple of this community making a comeback and we know that Barticians and Guyanese, on the whole, would be capitalizing on attending the various activities planned.

We wish you the best.”

Receiving the contribution on behalf of the Bartica Regatta Committee was Magiva Gonsalves who extended thanks to BK Quarry.

Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Regatta Power Boat Races which would only be for one day is set for Easter Sunday at the Bartica Golden Beach and Racing Circuit from 10:00hrs.

Ruimveldt Sports Club, Demolition CC triumph Ruimveldt Sports Club and Demolition CC recorded victories when the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association/ S and D Investment T20 cricket competition continued last weekend at Farm. Ruimveldt Sports Club defeated Providence Sports Club by eight wickets.

Providence Sports Club batted first and scored 53 for 9 off 14.4 overs; Innings closed. Lennox Andrews made 21 and Troy Satrohan 10. Eric Sukrah claimed 4-7 and Nichollas Bollers 3-9.

Ruimveldt Sports Club replied with 56-2 off 5.3 overs. Ershaad Ali scored 22 and Danney Narayan 17.

Rakish Seegoram took 2-17.

Demolition beat Laluni by five wickets. Batting first, Laluni made 71-7. K. Singh took 2-10, D. Pierre 218 and N. Dhanraj 2-29. Demolition responded with 77-5.Teekaram George scored 23, Damion Vantull 18 and Corwin Austin 16.

Eric Sukrah

Colin Croft appointed as Ambassador at Large for WINDIES MASTERS - Raj Singh elected as first Chairman with Dave Narine as Vice Chairman

C

r i c k e t We s t Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) has now been formally established as the body representing West Indies masters' cricketers and the administration of masters' cricket for West Indies.

At its first general meeting of its members held on Tuesday March 29th, 2022, in the Banquet Hall of the Hampton Inn & Suites in Sugarland Texas, history was created when the first group of 9 directors was elected to serve as the executive body of CWIMA as follows: Imtiaz Rick Ali Zamin Amin Oral Bedessie Julian Charles Kenny Girdharry Anthony Morris Dave Narine Raj Singh Roy Singh Most of this group had functioned as a steering committee of the initial organization formed in N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 9 - We s t Indies O50s World Cup Organizing Committee. In keeping with the mandate of administering masters' cricket across 3 formatsO40s, O50s & O60s, its name was inevitably changed to CWIMA. The constitution for CWIMA was also discussed and adopted at the said general

Raj Singh

meeting which provides for the election of a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 12 directors.

The general meeting which preceded the dinner/magazine/website launch was graced by the presence of former West Indies pacer from the 'Fire in Babylon' era of the 70s & 80s, Colin Croft, who delivered the feature address at the dinner/launch of the body's inaugural Windies Masters Cricketer 92 page magazine along with its w e b s i t e www.windiesmasters.org.

Mr. Croft was earlier accepted as an honorary member of CWIMA and expressed his happiness at being part of this event.

Crofty also committed his wholehearted support for the masters' cricket concept and CWIMA and expressed that he had agreed to come to

Texas to make his personal assessment of our organization and its operations and was very impressed with the level, s t a n d a r d a n d professionalism of our group.

The elected directors of CWIMA met at its first Board Meeting on Friday, April 8th, 2022, and the following Officers were elected to serve for the first Four-year term: Chairman- Raj Singh Vice Chairman-Dave Narine Secretary- Roy Singh Treasurer- Oral Bedessie Asst.

Secretary/Treasurer-Kenny Girdharry.

AMBASSADOR AT LARGE-COLIN CROFT The following Committees were also formed:

1. Marketing/PR/Social Media Committee Kenny GirdharryChairman Raj Singh Monty Venkersammy Dave Narine John Ramsingh Oral Bedessie 2. Cricket Tours Committee Zamin Amin-Chairman Anthony Morris Raj Singh Roy Singh Oral Bedessie 3. Selection Committee Raj Singh- Chairman Dave Narine John Ramsingh Reds Perreira CaptainCoachCWIMA just concluded its first tour in Texas for the Champions Trophy tournaments for both the O50s and O60s categories.

The O60s won the plate final convincingly defeating USA 'A' team. The O50s team lost out to USA in the finals to end up as runners up in that tournament.

The next international assignment for the O50s is in July for the Marlborough C u p f o r t h e QUADRANGULAR tournament between India, England, Wales, and West Indies.

The O60s then wing out to Queensland, Australia in late August for the O60s World Cup.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 40

Bartica Regatta KO Football...

Wednesday April 13, 2022

Linden Town Week Dewars Dominoes...

Big Landing, Cats, Swag Boss, Bidders battle for place in final today at Pensioners Club

T

AK Galaxy FC

A

dvancing to the next round of competition in the Bartica Regatta KO Football competition organised by the Bartica Football Association in conjunction with the Regatta Committee were Lazio, Potaro and newcomers, AK Galaxy at the Bartica Community Centre Ground on S a t u r d a y l a s t .

The biggest win of the night was recorded by Potaro Strikers who tamed Wolves United 8-0 on account of a brace each from Daniel Gardner and Troy Parris. Gardner was on target in the 9th and 21st minutes with Parris rocking the nets in the 30th and 3 6 t h m i n u t e s .

Setting the stage for this huge win was Jermaine Padmore who opened the scoring just three minutes into the game. The other players adding their names to the scoresheet were Rawl Simmon (63rd), Don Lam (74th), and Eon Adams in the 83 rd minute.

Brian Brown's double which saw him scoring in the 37th and 64th minutes was enough to secure Lazio's place in the next round against Beacon, the former prevailing 2-1.

Kurt Welcome's 70th-minute goal for Beacon gave them confidence but it was not enough to stop Lazio from a d v a n c i n g .

And, new kids on the block, AK Galaxy sent an ominous warning to their more

established clubs in the BFA when they stormed to a 4-0 triumph over Agatash FC. Leading the victory charge was Massiah Joseph who netted the first brace of the tournament in the 53rd and 7 3 r d m i n u t e s .

Support came from Adrian Charles in the 66th minute and Voldenor Da Fonseca in the 86th minute to seal a solid w i n .

The action was scheduled to continue last night at the same venue with a doubleheader, Rivers View was down to tackle Rising Stars while Mil Ballers matched skills with AK Galaxy.

Meanwhile, four female teams are scheduled to lock horns as the female competition takes center stage.

he heat is on this evening when four teams show up for the semifinal draw in the Linden Town Week 'Out of Lockdown' Ansa McAl Trading sponsored, Dewars dominoes tournament at the Pensioners Club in Mackenzie Linden.

So far the rivalry had been stiff and this is expected to be pressure dominoes according to organizer Oswald 'Speedy' Charles as two teams will win places in the final and one will get a bye after the draw.

Compliments of Ansa McAl Trading, the tournament's top team will walk away with $100,000 as the losers in second position collects $50,000 and the third placed team gets $30,000.

Trophies are also among the prizes at stake.

Two bottles of the Dewars and two packs of dominoes is guaranteed to all contesting teams in this tournament.

So far two days of this four day competition have been played at different venues.

At the Senior Supervisors Club Cats gained 89 games ahead of Big Landing on 64 and WHO ended with 51 games. Orin Massiah gained

the maximum 18 games for Cats as James Bobb-Semple made 17 and Brian Greene 14. For Big Landing, Vincent Small had the maximum 18 games.

In the other game at the Senior Supervisor's Club, Hustlers led on 83 games in front of Bidders with 80 and Warriors finished on 76.

Asha Cumberbatch marked 17 games for Hustlers while Felix Hooper got 16 and Royston Taylor 15 to top for Bidders.

Over at the Tropical Reflections at Five Corner venue in the second round, Bidders topped with 86 games followed by Big Landing 82 as Warriors ended 62 games.

For the Bidders, Eustace Ageday, Ian Bacchus and Jevon Allicock each made 16 games w i t h C a r l P i t t g a i n i n g 1 6 for Big Landing.

In another game played at that venue Swag Boss emerged with 80 games, ahead of Cats 7 2 a n d H us tlers finis h ed with 64.

Compton Johnson and Keith Tappin each got 16 games for Swag Boss and Oswald 'Speedy' Charles led the way with the maximum 18 games for Cats.

Linden Town Week Football set to start next Tuesday April 26 Lazio FC

The Linden Town Week Football tournament will commence from next Tuesday, April 26 with the final set for May 2 at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) ground.

This year the event will take the form of a Masters contest involving four teams pitted in a straight knockout format.

The sponsor is Ansa McAl under their Heineken Brand and they are expected to serve up the customary attractive cash prizes for the

outstanding performers.

Marlon Washington is the organiser of the tournament and informed that a number of former national players will be on show.

He informed that due to the covid19 pandemic the tournament this year will only see Masters action on field. Washington noted that full details of the tournament will be disclosed shortly at a scheduled event which will be announced featuring the sponsors Ansa McAl and the Mayor of Linden.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 13, 2022

NY Tri State Guyana Tour...

Fifties from Vanlange & Mohabir lead GT XI to win

The multi talented Jonathon VanLange drives during his unbeaten 66 yesterday.

(Sean Devers photo)

The long & short of it was a 93 opening stand between Swar (left) Dongre gave the visitors a solid start. (Sean Devers photo)

By Sean Devers

P

layed yesterday in glorious sunshine at the historic Bourda, which hosted 30 of the 32 Tests played in Guyana including the first Test win by West Indies in 1930, the visiting New York Tri State U17 unit lost by 53 runs to a GCA U17 team in their third match of their Guyana tour.

With white cotton-wool like clouds floating from a blue sky over the Bourda sward, the GCA side led by 116 sixth wicket stand between Jonathon Vanlange and Myhiem Khan and a further 94 for the second wicket between Alvin Mohabiar and Jeremiah Hohenkirk, rattled up 245-5 when their 50 overs expired on a flat track and fast

PAGE 41

Ruhan Swar followed up his half century in Berbice with an entertaining 67 against the GCA U-17 X1 yesterday at Bourda. (Sean Devers photo)

outfield.

The multi-talented Vanlange, a National Junior Table Tennis player, reached the boundary four times and cleared three times in an unbeaten 66 from 56 balls and Khan, who scored an undefeated 47, joined forces when Gabriel Rookum (6) was run out at 131-5 and with an array of audacious shots carried the scored to five short of 250.

Mohabir's 52 was decorated with seven boundaries and lasted 52 balls while Hohenkirk made 39 after opener Avinash Rajkumar was run out for 12

at 28-1.

Arvind Marella, who removed both Mohabir and Hohenkirk, took 3-37.

When the USA team began their reply they were bowled out for 192 in 46.3 overs with the inform 16year-old Ruhan Swar following up his 58 in the last match in Berbice with an attractive 57-ball 67 with seven fours and two sixes and along with 14-year-old Ta n i s h D o n g r e , w h o carefully constructed 41 from 85 balls with seven fours gave their team a solid start before Swar was taken at deep mid-wicket off

Mahabir.

The dogged pint-size Dongre lingered out of his crease and was stumped off pacer Dillion Ramsaroop by Vanlange, standing back.

But once the stand was broken and Skipper Utkarsh Srivastava, one better batters in the team was removed by off-spinner Krisna Singh for 10, only Anirudh Bolisetty with 20 offered resistance as Ramsaroop and Riyad Latif had two wickets each.

The NY Tri State play their next match today at Everest against a combined County team.

Gabriella Xavier received the NSC's support for the CAC Hockey qualifying team from Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, in the presence of her teammates.

s

rt Spo

NSC commits $3M to Women's Hockey team for CAC qualifiers nd

nd GBBC President Peter Abdool (2 from left) with from left Raymond Gavinda, Bernard Chavez, boxer Dexter Marquez, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle and promoter Aleem Hussain of Nexgen Global Marketing.

Hard Rock Café throws hat into Boxing Ring in Guyana Concacaf W Championship Qualifiers…

Lady Jags fall short in pulsating stalemate 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.