Kaieteur News

K

AIETEUR Govt. more concerned NEWS about making money than safeguarding

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

Friday Edition April 15, 2022 - Vol. 24 No.15 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 89,237

environment - Former EPA boss

Another expert agrees feasibility study critical for success of gas-to-power project p. 3

..says Guyana must guard against being caught in oversupply trap The protest continues for change to the Exxon contract.

Access to information pivotal to civil society oversight of oil sector- Oxfam p. 16

Biker charged for causing death of Sophia schoolgirl p.

15

Mental Health Protection Bill among seven proposed p. 24 legislation tabled

Building stadium, airport should not trump citizens' welfare p. 8

...economist reminds Govt. of high cost of living, healthcare, minimum wage issues The President of the fastest growing economy on earth, oil rich Guyana, boasting about opening call centers for his citizens to make money to eat and live

@11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

Kaieteur News

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Friday April 15, 2022

Govt. more concerned about making money than safeguarding environment T

he former head of t h e Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams believes that the government has assumed leadership of the regulator body, as the agency no longer has its own authority but rather operates on instructions.

In fact, Dr. Adams argued that the administration is presently more interested in making money, than it is concerned about the environment. The former head of the EPA made these statements during a recent interview with Kaieteur News. He explained that when it comes to flaring of gas offshore Guyana, the government has settled for oil giant, ExxonMobil, to merely pay for the burning of

the gas, which not only contributes to climate change, but also further impacts marine species.

In fact, Dr. Adams made reference to a public statement made by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who explained that the administration is implementing the “polluter pays principle” where the operator is forced to pay in exchange for the flaring of gas.

However, the specialist argued, “You cannot set environmental regulations to say it's okay to pollute as long as you can pay for it.

The EPA is supposed to set standards to protect the health and safety of the environment and you know what fines are for? You don't pay to pollute. It's just

- Former EPA boss Former EPA Boss, Dr. Vincent Adams

ignorance because the Vice President himself said that well, we are now using this

polluter pays principle but this mechanism is not to pay while you pollute.”

Dr. Adams went on to explain that the polluter pays principle is geared towards ensuring that the polluter pays in the event of an unfortunate or unforeseen circumstance. An example, he said, would be forcing an oil company to pay for clean up costs associated with an oil spill rather than allow it to discharge oil into the ocean as long as it pays for the damages.

To this end, the former head of the EPA argued, “It's not to pay to say okay as long as I can pay I can pollute.

That's basically saying that as long as you can pay to pollute then you don't need an Environmental Protection Agency. An EPA is not in the

business of making money, it's a penalty for after the fact not during the fact.”

The specialist reasoned that when operators in the field realize that governments are strict and are bent on ensuring principles are adhered to, they then become more e f f i c i e n t a n d environmentally sound.

According to him, those companies would seek to ensure that their operations are run smoothly to avoid being shut down.

However, he warned that if the operator continues to function in a lack luster manner, it can spell disaster for a country.

“Safety, health and the environment is more important than that what is drilled…it is always paramount,” he urged.

Presently, ExxonMobil through its subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) which is the operator in the Liza Phase One project currently producing oil, is presently flaring the gas that is pumped from the ground that comes to the surface with oil.

The Environmental Permit allows for the oil company to flare gas while its equipment is under maintenance, during startup of production or other emergencies. Exxon's gas compressor has been inoperable for about two years now. As the equipment (Continued on page 13)

Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 03

Another expert agrees feasibility study critical for success of Gas-to-Power Project - says Guyana must guard against being caught in oversupply trap

By Kiana Wilburg

S

imilar to the positions held and disclosed by the likes of Trinidadian Energy Strategist, Anthony Paul and Chatham House Associate Fellow, Dr. Valerie Marcel; International Economist, Dr. Justin Ram agrees that the US$900M gas-to-power can be a springboard for national development.

The former Director of the Economics Department at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) firmly asserts that the project, once done c o r r e c t l y, c a n e n s u r e affordable and reliable electricity that would boost economic growth, ensure job creation, lead to savings in foreign exchange, and reduce the nation's carbon footprint.

But what he also concurs with is that a feasibility study would be in Guyana's best interest so as to determine the overall viability of the project.

The expert who possesses

over 25 years of international experience in practice, research, development and management made this opinion known during an Oil NOW webinar that was held on Thursday morning. The informative session that was moderated by Oil NOW's Research and Content Developer, Kemol King, allowed for some of the nation's journalists to have a front row seat to Dr. Ram's presentation on his white paper on the project.

During the question and answer segment that followed, Kaieteur News asked Dr. Ram for his perspective on how important it is for one to consider the feasibility of the project.

The international economist said, “…Any project needs to have a feasibility study done and one of the important implications of that is the need to do a proper demand and supply analysis which I recommended. The reason

for this is to ensure we get as close as possible to the needed supply of gas for the project.

What tends to happen, and one of the lessons that has been learnt from other parts of the world, is that there is an oversupply agreement that is put in place.”

Dr. Ram continued, “What tends to happen is, if the government or those who are involved in the generation of electricity using the gas, they tend to be generating more electricity than is actually needed.

Now of course the reverse can also happen but if that happens, it is quite easy to ramp up (production). So from that aspect I think the feasibility study is really quite critical…”

Citing two case studies Guyana ought to pay attention to where gas projects are concerned, Dr. Ram listed Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago.

Kaieteur News

previously highlighted aspects of a report titled, 'Guyana's Gas-to-Power Potential,' where University of California San Diego graduate student Kathryn Hillis noted that Ghana, like Guyana, suffered power outages, and it wanted to reduce power costs, lower emissions and make electricity services more reliable.

That was addressed when Ghana approved the Sankofa gas project in 2015.

According to the World Bank, since the startup of the project, Sankofa resulted in the provision of power to 1.6 million households, decreased oil imports by 12 million barrels a year, and reduced carbon emission by 1.6 million metric tonnes.

Notwithstanding the benefits, the project has brought on extremely costly burdens on the people of Ghana.

In summary, it was noted that the Ghanaian market is now severely oversupplied

w

International Economist, Dr. Justin Ram ith gas it cannot use and must still p a y f o r. I n f a c t , t h e government is tied to paying US$500 million annually for unused power.

This is due to the fact that Ghana signed a long-term take-or-pay Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with gas and power suppliers, through which it would have to pay for 90 percent of the produced gas from the field, no matter the demand.

Dr. Ram said, “…So we have to be mindful of that, and I think to avoid this, I think it is critical to have private sector investment part of this because in putting

private money in this the risk management approach is going to be very, very high.

And by doing this, any potential fiscal burden could be reduced here.”

Dr. Ram added, “The other example I would cite is that of Trinidad and Tobago which built a very large gas to power plant in the south of the country and it was supposed to supply an aluminum smelter with electricity so of course you can imagine there was going to be a significant demand but what did not transpire was the smelter was never (Continued on page 13)

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Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 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

Good Friday: A story of sacrifice

O

ver two thousand years ago, an ordinary man had the courage and conviction to fulfill his earthly mission. He girded his loins and pushed himself to the extreme in this vale of life. He instilled hope in countless others, he gave inspiration to ordinary men and women who needed something to hold onto. He made regular human beings, many the ordinary fisherfolk, a few with powerful gifts, believe and humble themselves to manifest unshakeable, unbreakable faith. It was in the promises that were held out, the rewards that could be reality, but only if the will was there to carry past whatever was ahead, wherever it was, and beyond whoever stood in the way. We dont have to believe one shred of the Christian Way, or of what Good Friday has come to signify, in all of its solemn grandeur, its deep personal appeal.

All it takes is a little human commonsense that flows from commonplace reasoning, to discern and appreciate that when we believe in something, when there is something to grasp at, then there are no mountains that can stand in our way for too long. Whether atheist or agnostic (or believer, worshipper, and follower), there are some things in this life that are simply nonnegotiable in the purity of their logic, the power of their presence, the sacred nature of their stirring splendor. For here it is that we have this contradiction in Guyana, which is lived with by almost all citizens of this blessed land. It is richly blessed by any measurement that could be contemplated, and with that very few would argue, fewer still not find persuasive from overpowering truth. Such is the light from the first parts of Guyanese truth.

The other part, the denouncing contradiction, is that despite of our fabulous richness, we are so poor. Perhaps, it could be asserted that it is because of our luscious richness that we are so content to be impoverished of drive and energy and, let it be faced, of the vital spirit that confirms and reconfirms the glorious nature of man.

It is of weak man made fearful by his self-inflicted feebleness, and there is none that has engaged in as much self-destruction as we ourselves. From powerful leaders to poor peasants, and all those in between, we stand as testimonies to what is fragile, what is foolish, what is fearful.

Just recently, an emerging leading man on Guyanas national scene found himself reduced to quibbling over a word.

We grope for a speck of understanding as to what the reasons could be for what is nothing but shrinking and retreating, and we come up empty. Shrinking and retreating from saying (saying for a start, not even progressing to doing as yet) what is at the heart of that which is right for the peoples of this land. As we think of this twisting and tossing, we also think of Good Friday today, and question courage, inquire about conviction, and leave the rest to whatever conclusions do come to the poor citizens of this gorgeously rich country. Similarly, more established national leaders in many local spheres are pictures of the rawest cowardice, the greatest abandonment, the swiftest surrender. This is even before there is any position of confrontation from external sources present, alien creatures now locally resident. And once again, we think of Good Friday, and all that went into that hour of great sacrifice, the supreme self-sacrifice, that men still talk about in awe today. It was that one man could have stood up and changed the world, and he didn t even have a sword or a shield. He did not need them, the breastplate of his armour was good enough, for it was right, what was just.

Perhaps, we can all learn something from those human instincts that swirl within, which never die, no matter how unconquerable the odds look, how impregnable the forces appear. This must be the strength of our resolve this Good Friday, hose other days ahead. Somehow, we must find it, somewhere from deep inside such strength and resolve must come to us, flow over us. Then, we will live Good Friday, lead the way for others to follow.

A most distasteful, deplorable, dishonorable act DEAR EDITOR, We are the family of the late, beloved, and well respected, Mr. Henry Rodney, who died about a week ago in the United States of America.

As you may know, his remains have not yet been laid to rest.

As a family, we are trying desperately to join our extended families, friends, and fans to honour him with a sacred send-off that would display our love, appreciation, and gratitude for the out-

standing life he lived. We want to celebrate the remarkable legacy he has left us, his family, and the nation of Guyana, as a whole.

Mr/Ms. Editor, the reason we are writing this letter is because of the insensitivity of some charlatans among us who are invading our moment of sorrow and grief. People who are using the death of my father to raise money to satisfy their own ulterior motives.

They have not consulted

with us. They have not sought our permission. We have not given them our approval. Yet, they are publicly using his name to promote events for which there is a cover charge. We are seeking your help to warn such people that this is a most distasteful, deplorable, dishonorable act of disrespect to my mom, my siblings, and Guyana, as a whole.

We are terribly hurt and disturbed by this dastardly

act during this time of bereavement. I am attaching a poster from one source which must cease to be circulated, immediately. My father worked assiduously to establish a name of integrity, and he should be honoured with the peaceful rest he deserves.

No one should seek to capitalise on his reputation and his accomplishments.

Yours truly, Tamara, Tuana, and Tchaiko Rodney

Seeking persons to interview on Dr. Walter Rodneys assassination DEAR EDITOR, I am conducting a research for a documentary film on Guyana’s late founding member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. Walter Anthony Rodney during the 1980s. Part of this research

includes an examination of Rodney’s assassination on June 13, 1980.

I am particularly seeking to interview Guyanese who were living in the area, who later permanently migrated from the area, who still live in

the area, and who might have had contact with Rodney before his assassination. It goes without saying that anonymity will be guaranteed. If you have information that you are willing to share, please contact me using email address

infothejournalist.gy@gmail.com or telephone number 689 9317. Thank you very much.

Sincerely, Wayne Lyttle Unsolved Documentary Crime Watch Director/Producer

If we ignore the opportunities and indulge in shouting and pettiness, then the Gods who give us plenty will punish us DEAR EDITOR, I attended the National Assembly on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

I was there primarily to witness the expected installation of PNC Leader, Aubrey Norton as Leader of a combined Opposition and also to witness a triumphant return to Parliament of Volda Lawrence.

It was a stimulating occasion and I wish to thank and compliment the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sherlock Issacs for his kind courtesies extended to me.

Deserving of praise, is also the Speaker of the House, Manzoor Nadir for his correct handling of the session I attended.

He demonstrated a degree of adroitness and balance of some of his great predecessors. The likes of A.P. (Okro) Alleyne, R.B. Gajraj, Oscar Clarke, Sase Narine, Bertram Scotland, a sign that he is maturing and worthy of that high office.

As a citizen, I look forward to the new Opposition Leader being a fierce and relentless protagonist to help secure the well-being and new opportunities for all the people of Guyana.

With the growing gap be-

tween the rich and the poor, this is a daunting but necessary task.

This is a challenge that requires strength and a solid moral fibre that cannot be diluted by extant disciples of imperialist-type control and domination.

Such attitudes are alive and well today.

All of our Leaders must be reminded that they have a sacred responsibility to vindicate the horrors of slavery and the hardship of indentureship.

As I chatted with members and supporters with the major political parties, two things bothered me. First, it is clear that there is a dearth of knowledge amongst some of our younger politicians and therefore an understanding of our place in history.

This is a serious defect, which must be corrected without delay. This generation needs to have the appropriate education and knowledge so that they can develop the intellectual and physical strength to agitate so that the people of Guyana can be truly liberated.

Second, speaking to senior members of all the Parties in Parliament, I got the impression that the

contracts and arrangements made with the oil giants are cast in stone.

If my reading is correct, it brings me to a position I took much earlier and repeated in response to a caller on the Wednesday programme, Public Platform, Channel 9 that on the question of the harvesting and exploitation of our Natural Resources, Gold, Bauxite, Timber, Oil and Gas that this oft time repeated slogan of One Guyana, must be elevated to mean that when we speak to these giants of industry who come here to do business that they must hear loud and clear, the voices of a single Guyana like a well rehearsed choir.

When it comes to discussing and deciding how much or what percentage of profits we get, if developers understand that negotiating with a United Guyana will get vastly better deals.

The old wisdom of United we Stand, Divided we fall, makes more sense now than ever before.

This is a challenge, this is an assignment, this must be the noble venture, Aubrey Norton, Irfaan Ali, and the leadership of AFC, WPA, et al.

We must ensure that we

bequeath to our children and our childrens children, a land of beauty, a land of plenty, a land of national pride and a land of peace.

The Late Yesu Persaud, at a function held at the western end of Merrimans Mall that we came here in different ships but now in one boat, and I add, let us, therefore, paddle like hell to the drumbeat of One People, One Nation, One Destiny so that we navigate safely the turbulence of a tricky International Order to a safe haven.

At this time, where the Muslims celebrate Ramadan, Christians celebrate Easter, the Hindus have just finished their period of Nauraatri, the Spiritualist and Israelites celebrate Passover, it is a good time to seek divine intervention.

We thank the Creator who have placed us in a country with an abundance of natural resources, no floods, no hurricanes, no monsoons, no earthquakes, 83,000 sq miles and less than a million souls, if we ignore the opportunities we have and indulge in shouting and pettiness, then the Gods who give us plenty will punish us.

Hamilton Green Elder

Tribute to Lakeram Singh, popularly known as Mike DEAR EDITOR, We hereby commiserate with the elders, together with the darling wife and children of Lakeram Singh, popularly known as Mike.

Mike was a leading member of the Mikes Wellman Softball Cricket Team that travelled to Florida to take part in a competition. The day of the tournament was hot

and humid. Mike was handed the ball to bowl; he bowled the last ball of his over and then collapsed on the field. He was rushed for medical attention and he expired rapidly travelling to the heavenly zone on the 31st March, 2022.

The greatest gift of any community is to dwell among peaceful, enlightened neighbours.

Mike and his family remain our close good neighbours.

The shock of his sudden death sent streams of doubt across the country and shock to the near and dear ones that in fact he died.

Mike is not popular and dearly loved by many because he is a macro distributor in Guyana of pharmaceutical products; it is due to

Mikes charm, kindness, generosity and soft, sweet communication and persuasion and without the use of obscenities as a means of persuasion to his staff, his workers and members of society in general. He remained helpful to all who sought aid.

We cannot overcome the sudden passing of such (Continued on page 5)

Friday April 15, 2022

with the nonsense!

TransformationEnough in Region 6 Pakistan kicks out PM and relevantly competent exDEAR EDITOR, If there were to be the ecutive management team a Lesson for the Opposition most casual check, businessmen, and indeed Skeldon Estate employees will be able to inform the relevant officials of the abandoned airfield along the highway to Crabwood Creek that was utilised by local airline services, as well as GuySuCo who owned it.

Like all Berbice sugar estates there were/are airstrips to accommodate GuySuCos internal air services mostly for agricultural operations.

One is uncertain as to whether such technical applications are still being utilised aerially.

In connection with the most recent pronouncements, it is not certain whether the Minister of Agriculture and/ or the Board of GuySuCo have been previously apprised of the proposed developments, and therefore what would be the legal process inherent in the transitioning of the Aerodrome from the sugar industry to a proposed aeronautic authority, moreso in the context of reoperationalising sugar production at Rose Hall Estate.

There is also the question as to the extent the industry has been consulted in relation to the projected take-over of its Apprentice Training School at Port Mourant planned to be converted into a facility for training Oil and Gas operatives.

It would not immediately appear as if most, if any, of the Centres current infrastructure, equipment and its trainers would be readily adaptable to the new dispensation. In any case the project must involve the appointment of a

that must agree with related Oil and Gas actors on the following, amongst others: - Mission of the new training institution - Curricula involved - Selection of related specialist tutors - Organisational Management Structure - Equipment/Tools/PPE - Number of students to be accommodated for respective programmes - Domestic accommodation for necessarily resident students (non-regional) - Compensation Structure and other employment conditions - Related allowances for students - Approved certifications (would TVET be involved?)

- Entry level requirements (including for Caricom applicants) for satisfying the selection process.

- Apart from tutors, other support staff that will be necessary In the meantime, what specifically is the future of GuySuCos Apprentice Training Programme; and for that matter the re-development of sugar production at Rose Hall Estate - what a competitive work environment for Region 6 (Maximum).

Meanwhile, what news is there of the GOAL scorers who would have completed respectively the two, four, six months and one year programmes into what jobs/ organisations have they been absorbed?

More critically the decision-makers need to consider how many of Berbice sugar estates technically equipped employees may seek greener pastures!

E.B. John

DEAR EDITOR, With so much happening globally, I wonder how many people saw this coming.

Pakistan’s recent PM has been kicked out of office.

A New PM is now in place as of a couple of days ago.

The Ex-PM came into office years ago stating he was going to curb corruption and reform the country.

(His words not mine!).

However, he could not survive a recent no-confidence vote.

The ousted PM didn’t deliver, the people said. Neither could the ex-PM articulate what he had accomplished for the people of Pakistan after years in office.

Instead, he blamed the American government as being behind his ouster. Sounds familiar?

Sounds like someone was working from the same playbook as the opposition here. An opposition that didn’t think that for the five years they were at the helm,

these things with him as material wealth is frail and fickle.

Mike has taken his fine, good and lofty character, honesty, charity, generosity and love of God to his heavenly home.

We of the Kissoon family sympathize with his darling wife and children that his goodness and popularity will ameliorate the great pain they

they had to govern and “Think Smart”, (We are no longer living in the 60’s, 70’s or 80’s). Get big and small things accomplished properly, (things that citizens could see to have a positive impact on their lives or society as a whole is a priority).

Seems very few in opposition were attentive or planned for the future.

Deliver, Deliver, Deliver And not just think of everything through the lens of racial issues and division. To be consumed by everything through a racial lens in the 21st century, in an era that is highly driven by technology, without “Thinking Smart” Has resulted in a 0 percent chance of the opposition ever returning to office in the near future.

An opposition with a legacy truly wasted. Not much to show for their time in office. Lessons learned from why the ex-PM of Pakistan was kicked out. (Of all Places).

Chi Kansi

Fishing licences DEAR EDITOR, The pushback from some quarters in Suriname on the much heralded granting of fishing licences to our fisherfolk in the Upper Corentyne, looks like the arrangement has fallen through flat.

This was a government to government agreement by the presidents of the countries.

To date there has been no public comment on the developing and unfolding situation from the authorities across the Corentyne River.

From media reports it seems those not in agreement and supportive of the arrangement

Tribute to Lakeram..

From page 4 a good and dear person, yet we have to come to terms with destiny. From a simple unknown pharmacy Mike has developed and built a magnificent multi-storey building in Blygezeigt which has now become the epitaph of his glory and the symbol of his heritage. He took none of

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

now endure at the passing of a good husband and great father. We humbly pray that his soul may have eternal rest with perpetual light of the divine shining upon him. We love Mike and his family.

Sincerely, J.T. Kissoon, Attorney-at-Law & Family

their government in Suriname committed to are formulating their own rules which appear to be outside of the original agreement.

In the mean time our fishermen are left in a state of uncertainty.

The authorities across the river should not be on the sideline on this matter but must be clear and definitive on its stance.

An agreement was made in good faith and it must be honoured.

To do otherwise would be a blot on relations between our two countries.

It is hoped this matter can be resolved quickly to the satisfaction and benefit of both sides.

Shamshun Mohamed

GECOM is putting its house in order DEAR EDITOR, Justice Claudette Singh is on course in having two important matters of the commission settled, that is, having key positions in the secretariat filled as well as the completion of the house to house registration that was so much acclaimed by The Opposition PNC. All of these important issues will be addressed in time for Local Government Elections.

Getting things right at GECOM is great news and a welcomed development, it is a step in the right direction in the fulfillment of the democratic process.

We want the democratic process to work, free, transparent, fair and just, to all the parties involved.

We want to run away as far from and as fast from, the backwardness and shame of the 2015 - 2020 period, when democracy hung in the balance and our country was earmarked to becoming the pa-

riah of The Caribbean.

Thankfully, that lawlessness and shame was averted and good sense prevailed.

In this regard GECOM must take cautious steps in fulfilling its mandate, as careful, proper scrutiny no more no less - of every single person to hold office there.

Those who are chosen to administer the day to day administration of our elections must go through that acid test.

Now, the pace at which things are being done at GECOM is cause for concern in some quarters, namely The PNC Opposition to be exact. They are of the opinion that things are moving painfully slow and should be speeded up, but like I said in a previous paragraph filling GECOM’s Positions must be carefully done, so as to avoid the pitfalls of yesteryear.

Respectfully Submitted Neil Adams

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Friday April 15, 2022

Govt. engineer estimated $25M to build primary school in Port Kaituma

T

he Regional Demo fice. cratic Council of During the opening, it was Region One is plan- revealed that only two conning to construct a primary tractors had submitted bids school in Oronoque, Port for the project.

Kaituma for an estimated cost The contractors were Inof $25,164,850 million. ternational Imports & SupThis project, which falls plies who bid $55,120,472 for under the Ministry of Local the project and Caribbean Government and Regional Construction Consultancy & Development was recently International Supplies who opened at the National Pro- bid $22M lower than the encurement and Tender Admin- gineer at $2,488,108. istration Board (NPTAB) ofIt should be noted that Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Regional Democratic Council of Region One Construction of primary school in Oronoque, Port Kaituma

this project forms part of the tration and finance. $2 billion budgetary allocation From this years budget it the Region received for its was revealed that a sum of education sector this year. $6.6 billion has been dediAs reported on, in this cated towards the construcyears budget some $4.4 billion tion, rehabilitation, extension, was approved for Region and maintenance of educaOne. tional facilities.

Out of that amount, $1.6 This would see the combillion goes towards its health mencement of the construcsector, $651 million for public tion of the Prospect Secondworks projects, $146 million ary School, and the reconfor agriculture and $3906 mil- struction of North Ruimveldt lion for the regional adminis- and North West Secondary Regional Democratic Council of Region 10 Rehabilitation of Linden Foundation Secondary School.

Schools, which were de- schools and educational fastroyed by fires last year. cilities that will be rehabiliFurther, the money will go tated and m aintained in towards the construction of 2022. At the opening, nursery schools at Hydronie, projects were opened for Haslington and Vryheid Lust the construction of a priand primary schools at Bamia, mary school in Kaikan which Amelias Ward, Kaikan, is estimated to cost $45 milKarabairu, Zeelugt and lion, and a construction of a primary school in Oronoque.

Also the Kato and the Lin- Eteringbang which is proden Technical Institute dor- jected to cost $49 million.

Below are the companies mitories will be completed in addition to a number of and their bids: Construction of teachers quarters, 58 Miles, Region 10.

Regional Democratic Council of Region Seven Construction of primary school in Kaikan, Upper Mazaruni.

Construction of primary school at Eteringbang, Upper Cuyuni.

(Continued on page 28)

Passing of ‘Guyanese Freedom Fighter’ DEAR EDITOR, The New York based Guyana Democracy project mourns the passing of an eminent community leader, Yash Pal Soi. The organisation, headed by Dr. Tara Singh, says in a release that the Guyanese American community is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of the great community advocate and a champion of democracy in Guyana during the authoritarian years and the five months election impasse of 2020.

It notes that Yash made a significant contribution to the anti-dictatorial movement in New York. And he organised several fundraisers for Dr. Jagan and the PPP before the 1992 elections. Yash also lobbied Members of Congress and the Reagan and Bush Administrations to put pressure on the Hoyte administration to liberalise the political and economic system.

Yash Pal Soi organised and funded the costs of a Guyana Democracy Float in the 1991 India Day Parade on Madison Ave with a banner emblazoned with the words “Dr. Cheddi Jagan: Next President of Guyana”. The float made a big hit at the parade

where thousands of Guyanese lined the route. At the time of his death, he was working on an idea to build a cultural centre in Guyana.

Through my appeal for his assistance, Yash lobbied Congress to issue statements calling on the Granger Administration to accept the outcome of the March 2, 2020 vote.

Yash was hired by New York City as an engineer in the 1970s rising to the position of Chief Engineer during the 1980s. He was honoured by then Mayor Ed Koch Administration for his professionalism and by various organisations for his professional achievement and for improvement of community life. He was among a few who was honoured with the Ellis Island Freedom Award, an honour that was also conferred on President Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

Yash was the founder of several organisations including the Federation of Indian Associations that organised the annual India Day Parade.

Presidents Jagdeo and Ramotar participated in one of the parades. Yash is also known as the person who arranged for Bollywood movies

to be shown in NY since the 1970s, providing entertainment for early Guyanese immigrants. He organised several concerts of Bollywood stars in NY, including Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore, Mukesh, Manna Dey, and others.

He became close with Guyanese community leaders a closeness that began in the 1980s when he joined the struggle for free and fair elections in Guyana.

He worked closely with a group of us inclusive of Ramesh Kalicharran and Arjune Karshan (of ACG) who were deeply involved in the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Guyana.

Yash helped to advance the cause for democracy in Guyana introducing activists like myself to members of Congress and New York State as well as New York City politicians and to the mainstream and community media. Yash was introduced to Dr. Jagan with whom he became very close, hosting him (when he was Opposition Leader) several times on his weekly radio programme.

Yash also used his influence in the broadcast media to get him interviews with the

community ITV station as well as with mainstream newspaper and magazine publications. Interviews of Dr. Jagan appeared in several American publications.

Yash also arranged for Dr. Jagan to meet with officials of the Carter Center in Atlanta. After Jagan was elected as President, at a banquet in New York, Dr. Jagan publicly referred to Yash Pal Soi as “a Guyanese freedom fighter”.

Yash was honoured by President Jagdeo in 2011 with a plaque at a special function at State House.

The N.Y based Guyana Democracy Project, in its release, expresses its gratitude to Yash Pal Soi for his significant contributions to improving the conditions of Guyanese and other immigrants in the US as well as for the struggle for free and fair elections in Guyana. It writes: “We convey our condolences to the members of the Soi family as we all mourn the passing of this great personality. His memory will live on in the India Day parade that he conceived as well as the struggle for free and fair elections in Guyana”.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

T N U L B . . .

T B N U T L N B T .

U .

L .

L T B . .

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U N U T L N B .

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L N N U T B .

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L U BL BLUNT B . .

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T T N N U .

U L . .

L B .

T B . . . .

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T U T N T N U N U L L U B .

L B .

Guyana must rise . . .

B .

T . .

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N L . .

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B TLUNT. UNT...B BL Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

It was a day like today that Jesus Christ after being betrayed was crucified on a cruel cross. Three days later, Christians believe He rose from the dead to be the saviour for all of mankind.

We at this newspaper are praying for the day of resurrection to come for our country, when after the 'sellout' of our patrimony, Guyana can rise from the dirt and truly be the saviour for the Caribbean, as our young President has been assuring the people.

This resurrection for Guyana can begin with our leaders agreeing to renegotiate the lopsided oil contract with ExxonMobil. Until such a time, this newspaper will continue to be the 'voice in the wilderness’ advocating for a better deal.

PAGE 07

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Building stadium, airport should not trump citizens' welfare Stakeholders are adamant that Guyana's infrastructural development cannot precede citizen's well being.

...economist reminds Govt. of high cost of living, health care, minimum wage issues

By Zena Henry

G

uyana has already tapped into oil profits earned from its offshore oil developments which contributed to the largest national budget in the country's history.

Large sums of money have been budgeted for several infrastructural projects, but some stakeholders and civil society members continue to insist that these investments should not precede the wellbeing of citizens.

Economist, Ramon Gaskin told the Kaieteur News that there are several areas, some dealing with life and death situations that the government should address before spending on major investments that do not directly and immediately improve the quality of citizens' lives.

Gaskin expressed concern that Guyanese are still burdened by the meagre $44, 200 minimum wage

which the government has not yet approved despite the awful effects felt by the globally influenced high cost of living.

Gaskin pointed to the lack of attention being paid to free education at the University of Guyana despite this requirement being in the Constitution.

He highlighted the need for subsidizing basic food items and even the need for price control on those primary items that have seen huge price increases due to external influences.

Gaskin was especially concerned about what he noticed was an increase in the establishment of private health institutions to which he said government was delegating services instead of itself investing the funds to reduce cost paid by citizens.

Gaskin said it is appalling that all these multi-million and multi-billion dollar infrastructural projects are coming on stream, while the government has failed to improve the minimum wage

which its labour ministry and workers' unions had agreed to during tripartite discussions in 2019. He opined that the government has instead embarked on projects that will benefit a small few.

For example, in Berbice where the President recently announced a number of projects, these he said will not ease the pressures of the region, which was severely impacted by the reduction of the sugar industry.

The government announced the construction of a stadium, modern hotels, municipal airport and a private hospital, “but none of these will address the matters that these people are currently facing,” Gaskin said.

Additionally, the fish industry in that region which had saved many of the retrenched sugar workers is also facing difficulty as a result of difficult licencing requirements to access fishing grounds.

T o c u s h i o n

unemployment issues, the government has nonetheless promised 3,000 part-time jobs that will pay $40,000 monthly for three days work weekly.

They have also promised produce diversification in the sugar belt region to focus on hemp and shrimp production.

As it relates to health, Gaskin said that instead of expanding its services, the government seems to be delegating its responsibility to private institutions. Just over a day ago, VicePresident, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, again in Berbice said government is interested in offering financial support for heart patients to undergo lifesaving surgery which cost around some G$3M. As it relates to kidney failure and life-saving dialysis treatment, the government announced that it will give each patient $600,000 per annum for treatment.

“But what logic is this if you have your own medical

facility but handing out these services to private people.”

Gaskin questioned.

He said that Guyana has the funds to expand and provide these lifesaving services. The economist pointed to the development of another dialysis facility belonging to known private persons on the East Coast of Demerara, and a private hospital being built by a known company in Leonora, Essequibo and south Georgetown and highlighted an unhealthy connection between those private persons and the government.

The need to place price control on basic food items should also be of interest to the government to promote easy access to food items.

Attorney at Law and chartered accountant Christopher Ram also believes that the government should be doing more to immediately and directly benefit citizens.

He told Kaieteur News in an invited comment that

despite the physical infrastructure, they should at least deal with the important social infrastructure.

To be fair, Ram posited, the government has embarked on some socially related developments, but these are not being developed at the same rate as infrastructural development.

Ram insisted that, “people have a right to a living wage and that is nonnegotiable.”

He said however, this right begins with the government making it clear to the private sector that the current minimum wage is unacceptable. He said, “It is unacceptable that in this day and age, with the fastest growing economy that we are well below the minimum wage of less performing countries in the world.”

Ram said he is also unwilling to accept any talk that increasing workers' pay will increase inflation since there is no evidence to prove this.

Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Good Friday must not become Bad Friday T

oday is a Good Friday, a Christian holiday which marks the death of Jesus Christ by crucifixion some two thousand years ago. It is for Christians a solemn day in which they recap the events of Calvary, the place where Jesus met his death.

Good Friday is a day for church goers.

Christians usually attend church and then hurry home in silence to mourn the death of Jesus.

It was almost unheard of and unthinkable for a good Christian to miss a Good Friday service.

On Good Friday, many persons who have not, all year, seen a Church door, flocked to their churches.

Good Friday is one of those days in which attendance peaks.

Traditionally, it was also unquestionably the quietest day of the year. On Good Friday, if a pin dropped you could hear it. It was a day in which the country halted.

The British and Dutch who colonised our country ensured that certain practices, related to Christianity, were incorporated into the law and were part of national customs.

They ensured that this was a solemn day regardless of whether or not you were

a C h r i s t i a n .

On Good Friday of yore, everything would shut down.

Businesses big, small and tiny closed their doors.

The factories did not grind, workers did not work, shops did not open and the streets were mainly deserted.

Persons did not venture out of their homes except to go to Church.

This latter exercise was so solemn that the going and coming from church was a hush exercise.

Schools were in recess but strict restrictions were imposed upon the children on this day.

They could not go outdoors to play. And indoors they were required to be extremely quiet. This was not a day for playing music, games or for dancing. That would have been unthinkable 40 years ago.

The streets were barren for most of the day. No alcohol was sold on Good Friday. The bars were shut tight. There was no noise nuisance on Good Friday.

People stayed locked away in their homes.

Most Christians did not eat “rank” on Good Friday.

Cross buns and vegetarian meals were consumed in austere amounts.

On Good Friday, persons

tried to pass the day quietly.

It was usually hard to avoid boredom. The radio there was no television in those days added to the somberness of the day by mainly playing only religious songs. No friends came by. It was a day to remember and in many ways a day to endure.

The quietness and confinement are long gone.

Today, Good Friday is still solemn but this does not stop persons from being on the streets. It will also not stop many shops from opening for the day so as to make a dollar.

This raises a most important issue. Guyana is a land of many religions. Not all Guyanese observe Good Friday.

For obvious reasons it is not a holy day for Hindus and Muslims. So what should prevent a person who is not a Christian from having access to the markets, shops and stores?

After all, should a person in a free society not have the right to choose?

One of the reasons why, despite Good Friday not being a holy day for nonChristians, stores and shops generally do not open, is out of respect for the religious feelings of Christians. But it is mainly because of tradition.

Every person should

Dem Boys Seh…

Patience does pay off It tek a long time but it finally happen. Was lil small thing though. De leader finally get swear in to de House. De man wait a lang time. But he patience pay off.

He wait fuh it and it eventually happen. He gat another longer wait though. One of he colleagues talk how de man is President-in-waiting.

It gan be a lang, lang wait.

Far longer dan de wait fuh become leader.

But dem seh patience is a virtue. One time a man talk how he losing patience. And dem boys promise dem gan help he find it.

Dem boys still looking.

It mek dem boys remem-

ber de story of de man wah come home from wuk. He tun to he wife and tell she, “Just geh me a cup of tea before it starts!” De confused wife hurry tuh mek a cup ah tea.

She give he de tea, he stretch out pun de sofa and start fuh sip de tea. ”Wah yuh did mean, ‘before it starts’?” she ask.

“Not now, quickly, geh me some dinner before it starts!”

Obediently, she went to de kitchen and prepare he food. He gobble down it, burp and say “Go get me a beer, fast!”

She complained, “Now one min…” “No time,” he interrupt she, “it’s nearly start-

ing!”

Suh off she went, and brought him a cold beer.

He gulp down de beer, belch, and say, “Quick, go get me some cigarettes. It’s nearly starting.” De wife lose she patience and shout out: ”HOW DARE YOU! YOU SIT THERE ON THE SOFA WHILE I RUN AROUND BRINGING YOU STUFF? I WORK LIKE A SLAVE IN THIS HOUSE, YOU DON’T EVEN THANK ME ONCE, YOU JUST SIT THERE BURPING AND SMOKING ALL DAY WHILE...”

De man sigh and say, “Oh dear, it start!”

Talk half. Leff half.

respect the religious observances of others. And thus even if there is no law against certain practices, citizens should by their own actions ensure that no disrespect is brought to any religious grouping.

It is doubtful whether we will ever return to those days

when the country shuts down on Good Friday. But at least we can aim to have many days in which we respect the religious beliefs of others.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Friday April 15, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

My words to the President on our first exchange Let me repeat three things for those who love to criticise me. One – I have no formal, legal, financial and employment relation with the government. Two – Since Dr. Irfaan Ali became President, I have seen no behavioural traits that are different from other democratically elected leaders worldwide to want to not support him.

Dr. Ali, unless he goes in a direction that is authoritarian, has my support and I write t h e s e w o r d s unapologetically. Who vex, vex. I don't care. I am not into pro-government and antigovernment politics. Three – I believe a country needs opposition parties and genuine civil society organisations to monitor state behaviour. It is extremely unwise for the citizenry to live in a country where there

are no voices and pens to watch over state conduct.

Having written that, I would like to repeat my words to President Ali on my first exchange with him. I advised that government must ensure that the things that matter most to the ordinary folks are delivered. I describe the simple things people should receive that are a given in a modern country.

I am not going to detail everything I said in this context but I made the point that for these simple things citizens should not go through a lifetime of hassles.

The President listened attentively, agreed with me and assured me that this is what he wants his presidency to achieve.

He told me he agreed with my column of the onerous

process the commercial banks put small customers through. I suspect that either he encountered those problems before he became a public figure or he has relatives and friends that suffered the same fate.

I cannot blame the President or the Minister of Home Affairs for the things I see the police do. I cannot blame the Minister of Finance for things I know that happen at the GRA, NIS and other places. But what I would advise the President, his ministers and his public sector heads to do, is to act on the complaints of citizens immediately when these things are brought to their attention. People can do without the hassle. They are just unnecessary.

Yesterday, my wife rang me. I was in the National

Park. She said when I come home to put something substantial on our GWI account because we have not had water bills for more than three months now. She said she heard that GWI is on a disconnection exercise.

No set of words in recent years pierced my psyche as those words from my wife.

This is in April 2022. Please read my column of Monday, December 17, 2018, titled: “Horrible incidents in this country that should sicken you.” That article was about not receiving the water bill for three consecutive months.

I stated in that column that when I went to GWI, they simply told me that I owed $27,000. There was no explanation. We had to pay $27, 000 for three months when our reading pattern over the long years was $3000 monthly.

Raymond Persaud is an engineer that is employed by Gerry Gouveia at the Ogle Airport. He lives next to the head-office of the AFC. Mr. Persaud asked me to

highlight his plight. He has not received his monthly water bill for four months now. Then Frederick Kissoon y e s t e r d a y, t h e disconnection entered his yard. He explained to sure that after them he has not been paying yesterday, we now receiving bills and he doesn't have a credit standing with know what his reading is. He GWI. Life has immense immediately asked his uncle complications.

All citizens to go to GWI to ascertain his understand this.

When you bill. They asked him to come back because they were invest a billion dollars in agriculture there will be pressed at that moment. complications in relation to Why should life be like st many dimensions of the this in the 21 century over transaction.

But why should inconsequential services that should be automatic? But that the acquisition of a birth is not the only question? Why certificate, driver's licence, should this happen to citizens passport, police clearance, when only three years ago it compliance, etc., be a was happening at GWI? lifetime hassle? I repeat now When is this lack of modern for the third time, my landlines are not working and life in Guyana going to end?

I don't have the mental Why should a busy engineer have his water energy to endure the hassles supply disconnected through with GTT to get them fixed.

(The views expressed in no fault of his? Why should I this article are those of the pay water rate when I do not a u t hor and do not know the reading?

And this is what I did necessarily reflect the yesterday. I am absolutely opinions of this newspaper.)

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

Fully vaccinated man succumbs to COVID-19 The Ministry of Health on Thursday revealed that the country's latest COVID-19 fatality is that of a fully vaccinated 76-yearold man from Region Three who died on Wednesday while receiving treatment at a medical facility.

The Ministry in its dashboard stated that within the last assessed 24-hour period, health officials have recorded nine new infections in the country.

The new cases which bring the total number of confirmed cases to 63,358 were detected in Region Four which recorded six new cases, and Regions Two, Three and Nine which recorded one each.

The dashboard data shows that one patient is admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 10 persons are in institutional isolation, 24 are quarantined institutionally and 89 in home isolation.

Additionally, in the last 24hours, six persons have recovered from the virus, taking the total number of recovery to 62,030.

Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

Another expert agrees...

From page 3 built so what happens there is that the country is generating far more electricity than it requires.”

What also made matters worse for the CARICOM nation is that it had “a take it or pay for it contract in place” while the owner of the grid is a publically owned entity.

Given those two examples, he said Guyana should do a proper demand and supply analysis to ensure the viability of the project. “You really don't want a situation where you are generating too much electricity,” expressed the expert.

Overall, the revered economist said it is quite evident from the cost benefit analysis of the project he took into consideration; that there would be significant benefits to the overall economy of Guyana.

“I can't see any appraisal

that would be done that would make that cost benefit analysis a net negative…”

As regards Guyana achieving a low carbon future, Dr. Ram said this is important since it is imagined that the gas project would come with a specific time horizon attached.

“It is critical to note that even as Guyana examines these other technologies, it is also looking at hydro and solar and the idea is to bring those on as the gas to power project is going to an end,” the former CDB official said.

In conclusion, Dr. Ram alluded that the project in his view would redound in significant benefits for Guyana as there is a lot of latent demand for e l e c t r i c i t y b y entrepreneurs and industrialists who are desirous of playing a role in the country's development.

Govt. more concerned...

From page 2 remains under maintenance, the oil company has been flaring excess gas and paying the EPA a US$5 fee per tonne of Carbon Dioxide equivalent released.

In this regard, Dr. Adams said, “The government does not want Exxon to stop or to cut back on the production of oil because this government all they are concerned about is getting as much oil money as possible.

However, in the United States we feel the same way too, you know, you want to get as much money f r o m mineral production a n d oil production but you have to do it safely.”

He added, “They (government) have been trying to make money as much as possible, but you don't d o i t a t t h e e x p e n s e o f t h e

environment and people's livelihoods.”

In a previous interview with Kaieteur News, Dr. Adams explained the dangers the environment is exposed to, as a result of gas flaring.

Acc o r d i n g t o h i m , over 200 pollutants are released in the process.

“When it goes up, it has to come down, so besides Global warming and climate change and all of that type of stuff, it has things like nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, and when those mix with the moisture from the atmosphere it forms an acid, and so that is called acid rain,” the former EPA head pointed out.

He was keen to note that when the acidic water falls, it enters the ocean and affects fish, farming and the entire ecology.

PAGE 13

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Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 15

Biker charged for causing death of Sophia schoolgirl

14-year-old Makida Quick

T

he 21-year-old motorcyclist who was involved in the tragic accident on Sunday which claimed the life of Makida Quick, a former student of Tucville Secondary School, was on Wednesday charged for causing death by dangerous driving.

Making his first court

appearance was Glenton Redmond of 1584 E Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, who appeared in the Sparendaam Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool.

Redmond pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleges that on April, 10, 2022 while on E Field main access road in Sophia, he drove motorcycle CK 7840 in a manner dangerous to the public, causing the death of 14-year-old Quick, formerly of Lot 668 D Field Sophia.

Redmond who will return to court on June, 8, was released on $600,000 bail. Kaieteur News had reported that on the day in question sometime around noon, Quick and her younger sister were on their way to their grandfather's

residence, which is located in the same area when she met her demise. The two were travelling separately on their bicycles when the accident occurred.

Police in a report stated Quick was riding, south along the eastern side of the main access road, when a motorcycle, CK 7840, driven by Redmond, crashed into her. The police revealed that the 21-year-old motorcyclist was speeding in the same direction.

He was allegedly doing a stunt when he lost control and collided with the teen.

As a result of the collision, Quick was flung some distance in the air before falling into a nearby drain, while Redmond fell onto the roadway. They were both picked up in an unconscious condition and

transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where the young girl was pronounced dead on arrival. The motorcyclist, who police suspect is not the holder of a provisional or driver's licence, was admitted to the hospital for medical treatment under police guard.

In an interview with this publication on Monday, the dead teen's mother, Melissa Vossey said Quick is now the second child she has lost in just under three years.

She said that back in 2019 her eldest child, Olijah Chesney, a former Guyana Defence Force rank, was murdered during the course of a robbery.

The grieving woman said that on Sunday, the sister, who was with Quick at the time of the accident,

had visited the grandfather earlier that day and the man had requested to see Quick because he had not seen her recently.

The woman stated that she had just reached home from work that day when she heard about the accident. What was related to the woman was that her daughter was standing on the corner of the road with her bicycle waiting for the motorcyclist to finish doing his “stunts” before she continued her journey.

“The boy was lying on his motorbike while riding when he knock she down,” Vossey related.

She said her daughter, as a result of the accident, suffered a broken neck and leg, among other injuries. The woman described her daughter as a jovial and mannerly person.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

Friday April 15, 2022

Access to information pivotal to civil society oversight of oil sector - Oxfam O

ne of the major recommendation s offered by the British founded Oxfam confederation in addressing transparency and public accountability in the oil and gas sector, is governments respecting the rights of citizens to play a role, and thus furnishing them with information that allows them to do that.

The group of some 21 charitable organisations which fights injustice and poverty globally has highlighted in its 2018 report: Examining the crude details: Government audits of oil and gas project cost to maximize Revenue Collection, that one major way developing oil and gas producing nations can encourage better oversight of its petroleum audits is by sharing pertinent information with its public.

The group had conducted case studies of oil producing nations; the Republic of Congo, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya and Peru and found that because of a lack of information sharing, the countries were unable to utilize its civil society to aid government in handling its cost oil audits.

In Guyana, civil society groups have implored government to share certain information regarding the oil and gas sector but these have not been forthcoming.

To better understand the costs associated with the new

sector, questions have been asked about various expenses Guyana may have to pay as cost oil, especially since authorities have insisted that audit capabilities are not available in-house.

The Oxfam study has nonetheless identified several challenges to effective petroleum cost auditing in the case countries.

They said that the findings can also be relevant to other developing petroleumproducing countries where transparency and public accountability are absent with respect to cost auditing.

The information available publicly does not always provide a sufficient basis by which to judge how governments are using their cost-auditing rights, the report highlighted. Unless a case goes to court, citizens usually have no idea whether a government is auditing costs or what the results might be.

As such supreme audit institutions (SAIs), national legislatures, independent commissions, and Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) multistakeholder groups are deemed relevant to potentially review costauditing practices.

Another difficulty in oil and gas oversight is the ability to obtain data to benchmark petroleum costs, the report said. Reporting requirements are unclear or

incomplete, preventing governments from accessing certain information from companies.

The Oxfam report highlighted further government's delay in audits, especially when short timespans are set. In the case

tendency to prioritize auditing only after oil is flowing, long after development of the oil field has started.

By that time, the government's audit rights may have expired and companies' legal obligation

Oxfam's work encourages developing, oil producing nations to protect itself against unscrupulous oil companies and governments. of Guyana, the country has two years to audit oil and gas expenses. However, seven years after announcing its first oil find, Guyana is still unable to properly verify and audit sector expenses.

Around US$10b has been lost and the timespan for another US$9b will be up next month. The Oxfam showed that there is a

to keep records may have run out.

Auditors also lack sectorspecific knowledge and expertise, Oxfam noted.

They said the lack of regular risk assessment relating to the petroleum sector reflects tax authorities' limited appreciation of the special characteristics of the industry. Despite this gap, the

study pointed out that some of the case countries had not outsource audit assistance which would have been partly paid by the oil companies as per contractual agreement.

Guyana has however given up its right to access certain taxes from oil companies. As such millions of dollars in taxes have been forgone.

Cost audit rights are often dispersed across multiple government agencies, sometimes with conflicting mandates. Inadequate coordination inevitably leads to duplication of effort and uncertainty for investors with respect to the final determination of gross income.

Oxfam said, this is an issue civil society may look out for.

To ensure an effective response in addressing some of the matters highlighted above, the Oxfam study offers that as a part of transparency, audit activities must be publicly disclosed along with their results.

“Strengthen the capacity of oversight actors to monitor the government's use of cost audit rights.

A transparent and accountable audit process is a precondition for effective cost auditing; without this, it is impossible to determine whether governments are fulfilling their responsibility to protect petroleum

revenues.”

The study said that steps must be taken to increase the information available to verify and appraise petroleum costs. Innovative ways to exchange anonymised cost information between petroleum producers should be explored as a means of increasing benchmark data.

Civil society may also want to ensure that audit time limits and record-keeping requirements are long enough and that costs are audited as soon as possible.

The development of technical expertise and sector-specific knowledge to detect and mitigate cost overstatement in the petroleum sector should be very important to developing oil-producing nations Oxfam noted.

“An informed, risk-based approach to auditing is especially important for resource-constrained countries, to ensure that limited human and financial resources are judiciously invested.”

Reviewing and strengthen legal controls on petroleum costs are also important.

Oxfam suggested that carefully designed laws that determine the treatment or eligibility of costs should be developed so that auditors have the necessary legal tools to protect government revenues.

Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 17

House approves Dunstan Barrow as director for oil fund board T

he PPP/C on Wednesday used its majority in the National Assembly to approve its nominee, Dunstan Barrow for the position of Director for the Board of Directors of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF).

The recommendation for Director is provided for in the NRF Act 2021, which became law in December, 2021. The motion which was passed in the Assembly was moved by Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira, who is also the Chairperson of the Committee on Appointments. The NRF Act provides that one member of the Board of Directors be nominated by the National Assembly, another by the private sector, and three by the President.

The board will be responsible for the overall management of the Fund, reviewing and approving its policies, monitoring its performance, ensuring

designed to give the government full advantage.

At a meeting of the Committee of Appointments the Opposition proposed: Ram, and former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Adams but they

Dunstan Barrow

compliance with its approved policies, exercising general oversight of its operations, and ensuring that its management is in compliance with the law. It adds a layer of separation between political leaders and the fund, where previously there was none.

Back in March this newspaper reported that as

was predicted, the PPP/C used its advantage on the Committee of Appointments to pick Barrow, ignoring Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram and oil and gas expert Dr. Vincent Adams. Observers said then that Barrow being a former MP aligned to the PNCR further eroded the credibility of the board, which has been

were rejected by the Government. Meanwhile, in addition to Barrow the government nominated f o r m e r D e p u t y Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Clement Sealey and

former Guyana High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Hamley Case.

As part of the governance structure for the NRF, a Board of Directors was established which shall (Continued on page 23)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Friday April 15, 2022

Health Minister urges mask wearing, vaccination for Easter celebrations A

s citizens across the country prepare to celebrate the Easter holiday outdoors, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, is urging persons to ensure they take all precautions since the

pandemic is not over.

He said wearing a mask in crowded environments can prevent infection. He noted too, that getting vaccinated will prevent the severe form of the disease and in many cases hospitalisation.

“People must take the relevant precautions; those precautions would be that you should, if you're in a congested environment, at least have on a mask, and if you must be in those environments, make sure that

you're also vaccinated,” he said.

Due to the pandemic, emergency measures were put in place to curb the spread of the disease.

As such, citizens were unable to fully celebrate the joyous holiday for the past two years.

This year, with a decrease in positive cases, hospitalisation and deaths, the government took the necessary steps in reopening the country.

Also, measures such as mask wearing, curfew and social distancing were relaxed to enable some level of normalcy. However, persons are advised to protect themselves by getting inoculated and continue to sanitise.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, w i t h approximately 100 active cases, Dr. Anthony said, “I just want people to be very cautious, because while we want to open up the country… we're not at a place where we have zero Covid in Guyana.” During Thursday's

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony

COVID-19 update, the health minister said Guyana recorded nine new cases within the last 24-hours.

He further said 11

persons are currently hospitalised with one person in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Liliendaal hospital. (DPI)

Friday April 15, 2022

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Friday April 15, 2022

Woman gets bail for allegedly stabbing child A

and was charged 28-yearwith the unlawful o l d wounding of the woman, c h i l d b y Padimini Dwarka was Magistrate Judyo n We d n e s d a y Ann Latchman. granted $150,000 bail S h e for the alleged reportedly stabbing of her pleaded not guilty girlfriend's four-yearto the charge and old daughter. was granted bail.

The stabbing Dwarka is reportedly took place expected to make around 20:10hrs on her second court Sunday at their home appearance on located at Hyde Park, May 7, 2022.

Timehri, on the East According to Bank of Demerara reports it is (EBD). alleged that Dwarka had run Dwarka wanted to away soon after but reportedly, turned Granted bail for allegedly stabbing a child. stab the mother and not the child. herself in at the Timehri Police Station the following day in The two reportedly shared a relationship and were living together for some two years. On company of her lawyer.

The child was reportedly left in a critical the day in question they reportedly had an condition after the stabbing but Kaieteur argument and the child's mother picked her News was recently updated that she is now up and told Dwarka that she was leaving.

Dwarka allegedly armed herself with a knife stable.

Dwarka made her court appearance on and ran to stab the woman but ended up Thursday at the Diamond Magistrate's Court stabbing the child.

Friday April 15, 2022

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Friday April 15, 2022

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The two carcasses that washed ashore at Region Two and Six. [Photo credit, Annette Arjoon]

Dead dolphins surface in Leguan, Alness On April 14, every year World Dolphin's Day is observed and on Thursday two pictures surfaced of dolphins' carcasses.

Dolphins are cetacean mammals that belong to the same family as whales and porpoises. They are also one of the most intelligent and friendly mammals in the world.

In fact, they are extremely social and friendly beings, love company and have an acute sense of hearing. Dolphins can hear many more frequencies than adult humans. Dolphins can be found in many parts of the world although they prefer shallow waters.

N o t a b l y, d o l p h i n

numbers are at risk of endangerment due to poaching and hunting.

Global warming and climate change are also causing many dolphins to die. In 2009, the American documentary film “Cove” directed by National Geographic Photographer Louie Psihoyos brought to light the many atrocities

associated with dolphin hunting practices in Japan.

The film won an Academy Aw a r d f o r B e s t Documentary Feature in 2010, and helped spread awareness of dolphin hunting and how this affects their numbers.

On Thursday, local environmentalist, Annette Arjoon, in a Facebook post

shared two pictures depicting two dolphin carcasses. Arjoon stated in her Facebook post, “Today is world dolphin day. These two carcasses were reported by citizens in Alness Region 6 and Leguan Region 2.”

As such, Kaieteur News contacted Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), senior environmental

officer, Aretha Forde, who stated that the agency is aware of the two incidents and that a probe has been launched.

However, she noted, that w h i l e t h e E PA h a s dispatched teams to the area where the dead dolphins were spotted, she pointed out that EPA's team has not located the carcasses as yet.

$2.6B Mandela to Eccles four-lane highway commissioned - Equipped with security feature to identify and track errant road users

P

resident, Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Thursday evening commissioned the newly constructed $2.664B Mandela to Eccles four-lane highway equipped with a security feature that can track errant and reckless road users.

The highway includes a roundabout, and was a project carried out by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), an agency that falls under the preview of the Ministry of Housing and Water.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony last evening, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CH&PA, Sherwyn Greaves said, works on the highway began April 15, 2021 and was completed, on April 13, 2022. It took eight contractors-local and

international- to complete the highway that spans approximately 2.84 Kilometers.

Some of the contractors involved with the project included, Pooran Brothers, Aranco Limited, Junior Sammy Guyana Incorporated, M. Balgobin and Sons Contracting services Limited and KSM Investment.

The new four-lane highway according to Greaves, is designed to high American standards.

“The main highway is a jointed concrete structure on white sand base, the roundabout is an asphaltic concrete pavement and this highway is designed for high volume traffic”, stated Greaves.It is also equipped (Continued on page 23)

Prime Minister Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips and President Mohamed Irfaan Ali cutting the ribbon to officially open the highway for traffic.

Overhead shots of the new $2.6B Mandela to Eccles four-lane highway.

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PAGE 23

$2.6B Mandela to Eccles four-lane highway...

From page 22 with parking lanes, sidewalks, 12 reinforced concrete composite bridges, three reinforced concrete culverts and 214 solar power street lamps.

Apart from the infrastructural works that were done on the multibillion dollar roadway, it is also equipped with a security feature that can track errant road users.

According to President Ali, that new security feature will be turned on in three weeks' time.

“This highway will carry a new feature in three weeks, the full security feature on this highway will be turned on”, said the president.

“This feature” continued

Ali, “will track vehicle speed and record vehicle speed and transmit your speed electronically to the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Revenue Authority”.

Ali said the feature will also be able to identify number plates and the image of drivers and their front seat passengers- even on dark rainy nights- and transmit that information electronically to the relevant authorities.

If motorists are found breaking the traffic rules, such as driving above the speed limit, then the information will be used to prosecute them.

The speed limit for the new highway was given as 30Kmph at the roundabout,

A shot of the highway from ground level.

50Kmph in residential areas and 80Kmph in open spaces.

The President also hinted that his government is

CEO of the Central Housing and Planning Authourity (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves.

President Mohammed Irfaan Ali speaking at last night's commissioning Ceremony.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal

House approves Dunstan Barrow...

From page 17 comprise of not less than three and not more than five persons who shall be appointed by the President, and one of whom shall be appointed Chairperson by the President.

The directors, according to the Act, shall be selected from among persons who have wide experience and ability in legal, financial, business or administrative matters.

It was noted that one of the Board members shall be nominated by the National Assembly along with one from the private sector. The Act states that the directors shall be appointed for a period not exceeding two years and shall be eligible for r e a p p o i n t m e n t .

The Opposition is adamant the bill was illegally passed in the National Assembly last December and has since challenged it in court.

Meanwhile, additionally, Clement Sealey has been recommended as the suitable candidate to be appointed as a member to the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee.

This committee will have nine members, including a nominee of the National A s s e m b l y, a n d representatives of the religious community, the private sector, organised labour and the profession.

planning to make some adjustments to the country laws to implement a demerit system for drivers.

Each time a driver breaks the law it will be noted down and can eventually lead to them losing their licence.

He even spoke of an initiative to mail tickets to the home of motorists, who break the rules, and should

they fail to pay them, then their road service licence will not be renewed the following year.

Meanwhil e , m i n i s t e r of the Housing M i n i s t r y, C o l l i n C r o a l reminded the audience in attendance of the c o m m i s s i o n i n g c e r e m o ny that one of the main reasons behind the

billion dollar investment is to reduce traffic congestion along the East bank corridor by providing alternative routes from Georgetown.

He also boasted that one of the spin off benefits from the investment is the significant increase of land value along the new fourlane highway.

Friday April 15, 2022

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Mental Health Protection Bill among seven proposed legislation tabled T

he Mental Health Protection and Promotion Bill 2022, is among seven pieces of proposed legislation laid in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

In addition to the Mental Health Bill, Nurses and Midwives Bill 2022 and the Radiation Safety and Security Bill 2022, the Juvenile Justice (Amendment) Bill, The

Evidence (Amendment) Bill of 2022 and the Condominium Bill and the Tax (Amendment) Bill 2022.

The bills were read for the first in the National Assembly by the respective

Subject Ministers.

In a brief of what the mental health legislation means for Guyana, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony told the Assembly that once the bill becomes law it, “will provide mental health care and treatment for persons with mental illness, and protect, promote and fulfill the human rights of those persons during the delivery of mental health care”.

The new law, according to Minister Anthony will also make way for the establishment of a Mental Health Board.

He said the law will also repeal the mental hospital ordinance and replace it with the board, which will be responsible for advising and assisting the Minister in the areas of mental health and promoting best practices when it comes to mental health care.

Additionally the board will “receive and investigate complaints on any matter connected with mental health care and treatment (and) undergo a periodic review at least once every six months of all persons receiving mental health care in a mental health facility”.

The other bill presented

by Minister Anthony was the Radiation Safety and Security Bill 2022 which will provide for the safe, secure and peaceful uses of ionising radiation, protect persons and the environment against the harmful effects of radioactive waste, and the establishment of the Radiation Safety and Security Board.

D r. A n t h o n y a l s o presented the Nurses and Midwives Bill 2022, which he described as a bill to make provisions for the registration and regulation of nurses, midwives, nursing assistants, and specialist nurses.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, presented the Evidence (Amendment) Bill of 2022 which seeks to amend the Evidence Act, Chap. 5:03, by inserting a new section, 63A into the principal Act. The amendments will now allow for a confession made by an accused in any proceedings to be used as evidence by the person's coaccused – provided it is relevant to the matter at hand and has not been excluded by the court.

The Juvenile Justice

(Amendment) Bill, on the other hand was laid by Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn. According to the bill's explanatory memorandum, the Government is now seeking for juveniles who commit crimes with adults that cannot be treated summarily to be charged jointly.

At present, Section 3(bi) of the Act provides for the juvenile justice system to be separate from the system used for adults. With the amendment, the Magistrate or Judge will still be allowed to employ any measure deemed appropriate by the court, to ensure that the best interest of the juvenile takes precedence.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh p r e s e n t e d t h e Ta x (Amendment) Bill 2022, which seeks to amend the Tax Act and Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal presented the Condominium Bill 2022.

The latter seeks to “make provision for the horizontal and vertical subdivision of land and buildings into units for individual ownership and to make provision for the use and management of condominiums…”

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Landmark condominium bill tabled in National Assembly P

ersons who have p u r c h a s e d duplexes or condominiums from the state, will soon be able to access the titled document for their properties as the Condominium Bill 2022 was tabled in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

The Bill was presented

by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, M.P, during the 46th Sitting of the Twelfth Parliament at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

With six parts and 65 clauses, the Bill makes provision for the horizontal and vertical subdivision of land and buildings into units for individual ownership, and for the use and m a n a g e m e n t o f condominiums.

Among other things, the

Bill paves the way for commercial banks to accept titles for the properties, and insurance companies to issue policies to owners of condominiums.

Clause 19 of the Bill states that units in a condominium constitute immovable property, while Clause 20 provides for the title of ownership of a condominium unit.

Clause 44 empowers unit owners to ensure their respective units. The Bill also requires that proposed declarations and descriptions of units be approved by the minister before a condominium is constructed or before an existing building is converted into a condominium.

It also empowers the minister to approve, reject or

direct the amendment of a proposed declaration and description.

The crafting and tabling of such a Bill fulfills the promise of the PPP/C Government after it was discovered that the former Coalition Administration constructed duplexes (a home with two individuallyowned units in one building) without amending the relevant legislation that guide the regulation of such properties.

In an interview with DPI last year, Minister Croal spoke of the importance of the Bill as the government continues to push its aggressive national housing programme.

He anticipates there will be a demand for condominiums and duplexes with the advent of the oil and

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, M.P presents the landmark Condominium Bill to the National Assembly, Wednesday.

gas sector, and a growing interest by investors and developers to construct condominium schemes.

“Our current Act does not cater for that type of construction. We have more of the single ownership… We cannot a c c o m m o d a t e a

condominium scheme because the necessary legislation for those was not amended so, all of that will be catered for,” he had explained.

The Bill was crafted by the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Attorney General Chambers.

It forms part of the government's legislative agenda which is directed towards a revamp of many of the archaic and outmoded laws of the country, as well as to lay the foundation for the economic development anticipated to take place in the very near future. (DPI)

Friday April 15, 2022

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Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

Pandemic pressure: ‘teachers felt burnt out TOURS VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable.

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(TRINIDAD EXPRESS) Over the course of the Covid19 pandemic and the resulting switch to online schooling, teachers complained of feeling “burnt out” and wanting to retire or resign.

This is according to industrial relations officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) Kerry Broomes.

Broomes was speaking yesterday during a meeting of the Joint Select Committee on Local Authorities, Service Commissions and Statutory Authorities (including the Tobago House of Assembly).

“We received several complaints of teachers being burnt out, teachers wanting to retire, some teachers have retired and resigned because

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complaints and we tried, as an association, to support our members as much as possible but it has been a difficult time for many of our members,” he said.

Greater appreciation for teachers Committee chairman Dr Varma Deyalsingh said the pandemic has led to a greater appreciation for teachers and the roles they play in children’s lives. “A teacher would often be the one to first see a child who is leading to be a delinquent child, a child who may be depressed because of abuse at home, a child who may have a learning disability. And sometimes the role of a teacher is really to be like a nurse or psychologist, or policeman... So the role of a teacher is very important.

“I think a lot of persons may have not appreciated their

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role, but with the Covid pandemic and parents having to teach their children, I think they have now again appreciated their role.”

Committee member Khadijah Ameen, however, noted there are still teachers, particularly those known as ATPs (assistant teacher—primary) who are still working under 2013 salaries of around $6,000 per month, and struggle to pay their bills.

Some have been forced to take on additional jobs to survive while waiting to be upgraded from ATPs to teacher 1, 2 or 3 positions, she said.

Executive director of the Teaching Service Commission Farya MohammedBasdaye said the commission is currently looking at this issue and awaiting recommendations from the Ministry of Education to move forward.

Govt. engineer estimated...

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they felt that the emergency online education was too much for them,” he said. He said the online method of teaching was particularly difficult for older teachers who were not as familiar with the technology. “It was difficult for many of them to learn the new technology and execute properly. What also happened is that some teachers felt pressured. Whether it was an incorrect perception, it was a fact that they felt pressured by parents, by administration, by society in general. They couldn’t deal with it,” he added.

Broomes said some teachers simply could not handle working from home in situations where their own home lives and children impacted how they were able to function. “It became very difficult and stressful. We had many

Kaieteur News

Friday April 15, 2022

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Caribbean Creative Sector to benefit from ACP-EU3 million EuroGrant Support Programme

T

he Caribbean Culture Sector has r e c e i v e d significant funding from the European Union with support from the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States, under the ACP-EU 11th EDF Culture Programme as creatives seek to recover from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Virtual Launch is set for Thursday, April 21, 2022, at 11:00 EST. The United Nations, Educational, Scientific and C u l t u r a l O rg a n i z a t i o n , (UNESCO), the CARICOM Secretariat and The University of the West Indies have joined forces to implement the project titled Creative Caribbean - An Ecosystem of “Play” for Growth and Development”in the amount of Euros 3million.

The three-year project that will be implemented in 15 Caribbean countries aims to develop a robust creative economy in the region by strengthening the enabling environment and providing grant support for industry and training initiatives.

The Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) targeted for grant support include music, fashion, festivals, film, animation and new media, visual and performing arts, among other areas of entertainment - a sector that provides millions in revenue and in which thousands of

people find full-time and part-time work.

The project is expected to strengthen research and data collection on CCIs, to facilitate market access opportunities, to support the development of national artists' registries, Cultural policies and Creative Industry Development Acts to incentivise the sector.

It will also provide grants to creative and cultural practitioners to grow more globally competitive businesses and enhance their professional development.

“It is an unquestionable fact that the impact of Covid19 on the cultural and creative sectors was tremendously significant, yet CCIs play a notable role in the economy and recovery from the pandemic.

The Creative Caribbean project seeks to shift the paradigm from "the struggling artist" to creating an enabling environment where creatives are incentivised to produce and thrive and become a key driver of sustainable development in the region," explains Saadia SanchezVe g a s , D i r e c t o r a n d Representative of the UNESCO Cluster Office for the Caribbean.

Artists and Cultural Entrepreneurs from the following countries are eligible to apply for grant support under this landmark project: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas,

Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic,

Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and

Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,

Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago.

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Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Sri Lanka Women to tour Pakistan for three ODIs and T20Is in May-June ESPNcricinfo - Sri Lanka Women are finally set to play their first big series - apart from qualifier tournaments since the 2020 T20 World Cup in Australia when they tour Pakistan for three T20Is and as many ODIs in May-June this year.

The Commonwealth Games Qualifiers earlier this year, which they won, is the only series Sri Lanka have played since the pandemic began after their tour of Pakistan late last year hit a stumbling block following a change in management at the PCB. The Sri Lankan and Pakistani teams will arrive in Karachi on May 19 for the three T20Is on May 24, 26 and

28 followed by the ODIs on June 1, 3 and 4, which will be part of the ICC Women’s Championship.

A group of 26 Pakistani players will also undergo an 11-day camp at the Academy Oval ground adjacent to the National Stadium.

It will be the first series for Pakistan Women at home since West Indies toured the nation back in December 2018.

A PCB release said it will also be the first international series in Pakistan that will be played outside the hard Managed Event Environment since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

It will also be the first se-

ries to kickstart the third edition of the ICC Women’s Championship, to run from 2022 to 2025.

All participants of the series, including the players, team officials and match officials, will undergo on-arrival tests and will be expected to follow the SOPs to protect themselves from the virus. Anybody who tests positive will be required to undergo five days of isolation.

“It is a great privilege for us to play the ICC Women’s Championship on our home soil and the side is very excited to welcome Sri Lanka,” Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof said.

“This edition provides us

Sri Lanka have not played ODIs since October 2019. (Getty Images) an opportunity to start fresh and make the most of the home advantage.

“I am sure the team will perform to their fullest potential and the Pakistan cricket

Victories for...

Friday April 15, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Freedom is a key aspect of life today, Aries. You might find that your brain wants to break free and pursue more independent ways of thinking. Don't worry if such ways of thinking lead you into unknown territory.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) People are apt to be as stubborn as you in their thinking today, Taurus. This could be a recipe for disaster if you aren't careful.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You could find yourself staring at a stranger for just one extra second as you pass on the street today, Gemini.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) As you work slowly and steadily toward your goals, realize that there are apt to be unexpected obstacles along the way, Cancer.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) It's generally quite clear that you aren't afraid to tell people what you think, Leo. Maybe it's time to be more expressive about how you feel.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today could be filled with unexpected twists, turns, and bends in the road that you may not be prepared for, Virgo. Apparently someone forgot to install the sign that warns of sharp curves ahead.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You could be thinking some bizarre thoughts today, Libra. They might lead you in a direction that doesn't quite pertain to your current situation.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your thinking is solid and clear today, Scorpio, but other people could challenge your mental power. .

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You could get the feeling that something is wrong today when it isn't, Sagittarius. It's probably just your perspective that needs some adjusting.

From page 37 made 37. Antonio Thomas and Gopal Deen snatched two wickets each.

Ravi Beharry slammed 69 for Sunrisers Masters while Dean chipped in with 44.

Curtis Russell collected 224 and De Young with two scalps as well delivering for the Tigers.

The action will continue this Sunday at venues to be named with two matches.

Ravens Sports Club will tackle Hibernia Strikers, while CCC and Sunrisers Masters will do battle.

Guyana Women’s...

From page 32

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your sensitive nature is likely to pick up a disturbance in your thinking today, Capricorn. Suddenly, a blast of unexpected information could come your way and throw a monkey wrench in your mental process.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You might experience some mental distractions that pull you in different directions today, Aquarius. There could be a stubborn internal/ external battle brewing.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) It could be difficult for you to think straight today, Pisces. Your brain is probably working in short, erratic bursts that keep you guessing about which way to proceed.

Sarah Klautky #19 Position: Attacking Midfield Caps: 0 Sarah is one of the team’s most naturally gifted athletes who could be a star in any sport.

Sarah’s change of pace and skills makes her fit into that unique category of players who can turn an ordinary attack into something special.

fans, who have extended us great support, will get to see better and consistent results.”

At the end of the tour, the Pakistan players will fly to Ire-

land for a T20I tri-series involving the hosts and world champions Australia, before they move to Birmingham in England for eight-team Commonwealth Games.

PAGE 32

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

Guyana Women’s Hockey Team for 2022 CAC Qualifier face drastic adjustment on eve of tournament The Guyana women’s hockey team, ranked #66 in the world, faced the #49 ranked Puerto Rico in their opening clash of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Women’s Qualifiers on Thursday in Hamilton Bermuda.

Guyana is participating in the Qualifiers in an effort to secure a spot in the 2023 CAC Games scheduled for June of that year in San Sal-

vador, El Salvador.

The Guyanese side held a practice session on the artificial pitch on Wednesday, which was the first time the young players in the team ever experienced it.

Head Coach Philip Fernandes explained that it was a difficult practice, as all that the team learned on grass needed now to be adjusted drastically to the signifi-

cantly faster artificial pitch on which international matches are played. Guyana has the youngest team in the competition with six teenagers and eight debutants, but Fernandes is confident that they can perform at this level.

The head coach stated that he would have been supremely confident if the tournament was being contested on grass but indicated

that the adjustment to the artificial surface is always the unknown factor.

He indicated that the team having to go through this adjustment on the eve of every tournament is the biggest challenge to success. Guyana remains the only hockey-playing nation without an artificial pitch to compete in the region and possibly the

world.

The team follows its match against favourites Puerto Rico with a clash against hosts Bermuda on Saturday April 16 at 17:00hrs and completes their campaign against Jamaica the following day from 14:00hrs.

The top two teams based on the accumulation of points will secure berths to the 2023 CAC Games.

Alysa Xavier #1 Position: Goalkeeper Caps: 41 One of only two players to play on a scholarship in the USA, Alysa is one of the most experienced and physically gifted athletes on the team.

Ulrica Sutherland #21 Position: Sweeper Caps: 51 After being the cornerstone of Guyana’s defence forover 10 years, Ulrica was recalled out from retirement to manage a relatively young defence.

She is a tremendous one v one defender who is fast and fearless.

Makeda Harding #6 Position: Left Back Caps: 0 Makeda - Makeda is a natural defender who brings a unique toughness to the game.

She has been one of the breakout players in recent years and is expected to make a significant impact on the team.

Trisha Woodroffe #7 Position: Central defender Caps: 56 Trisha is playing the best hockey of her life and completes a powerful central defensive unit.

Trisha comes from a hockey family following in her father’s footsteps of being one of the best defenders to ever come out of Guyana.

Kirsten Gomes #14 Position: Left Back Caps: 0 Kirsten is a very intelligent player who plays with a maturity beyond her age and experience. She has a nice balance of good technical skills along with sound decision-making.

Kezia Chinian #25 Position: Central defender Caps: 0 Kezia is one of those unique players who can fit in at different ends of the field. She has good timing for the ball which coupled with a good fitness level makes her successful at winning most battles on the field.

Marzana Fiedtkou #5 Position: Center Midfield Caps: 47 Marzana is the Vice-Captain of the team and possesses solid technical skills, vision and ability to distribute the ball. She has good knowledge of the game which was strengthened by her stint playing in the USA University leagues.

Gabriella Xavier #2 Position: Attacking Midfield Caps: 47 Gabriella is the team’s inspirational Captain and another player who is playing the best hockey of her career. Gabby is one of the effective playmakers of the team and has the offensive skills to strengthen the forward line when the situation demands.

Madison Fernandes #23 Position: Center Midfield Caps: 0 Madison has developed her stick skills into one of our best and has that unique ability to make long passes from midfield that is a key factor, added to the team’s short game. Madison’s hard work in the midfield often goes unnoticed but adds to her value in the middle.

Mickelly Rahaman #24 Position: Right Back Caps: 0 Mickelly has been the most improved player over the past year and this is testament to her personal dedication to improving her craft. She is has now molded herself into a tenacious defender who makes good decisions under pressure.

Claysa Bobb #17 Position: Left Wing Caps: 0 After being identified as a promising junior talent just a couple of years ago, Claysa is no longer just the baby of the team, but is now a bonafide striker who contributes on an even keel with her more experienced teammates. She has done a fine job developing her skills, decisionmaking and, more recently, her tackling to a high quality.

Princessa Wilkie #13 Position: Center Forward Caps: 14 Princessa brings a high work-rate every time.

Her quick acceleration and determination is easy to spot on the field but what is often overlooked is her natural skill and timing for the ball, which makes her into that player who can turn half changes into goals and gold.

Samantha Fernandes #22 Position: Right Wing Caps: 24 Samantha is the player that leads the team in effort.

Her speed, condition and determination to apply tremendous pressure on the opposition and makes her a menace to the opposing defence. Recently her offensive skills and confidence has grown to make her just as effective in possession as she is hunting the ball.

Aliyah Gordon #9 Position: Left Wing Caps: 14 Aliyah is one of those gamechanging players. She is capable of producing a moment in the match that can turn the outcome upside down. Aliyah’s skills are unmatched and she is that player who owns the game anytime she gets the ball in the opponents’ 25.

Abosaide Cadogan #12 Position: Center Forward Caps: 0 Abosaide is a unique striker who moves at high speed under full control of the ball. She makes good decisions under pressure, has superb control, and is a prolific goal scorer.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News

NY Tri State Guyana tour

Bartica Easter Regatta Female Football

AX Galaxy and Rivers View Fifties from Mohabir and Adams United to clash in tomorrow’s final spur GCA U17s to 4-Wkt win

By Sean Devers New York Tri State lost their third game in five matches when they suffered a four-wicket defeat at the hands of a Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) U17 side at DCC ground in Queenstown.

At a club which produced West Indies’ first ever winning Captain, Maurice Fernandes, Lance Gibbs, Clive Lloyd, Roy Fredericks, Roger Harper and Travis Dowlin, GCA made 151-6 in 40 overs in reply to the NY Tri state 149 all out in 40.4 overs.

In ideal conditions for cricket on a small ground with a fast outfield and good track the visitors slipped to 27-3 before Skipper Utkarsh Shrivastava, arguably the most technical correct batter in the USA based team, again failed to convert a good start into substantial score when he was caught and bowled by Brandon Henry for 38 from 84 balls with three fours.

But despite an unbeaten 46 from 51 balls with six fours and a six from Adil Shivakumar only Ruhan Swar, the leading run scorer on tour, was the only other batter to reach double figures in a strange batting order as extras contributed 25 to the total.

Dave Mohabir took 3-19, while he was supported by Henry (2-14) for the GCA lineup who recovered from 38-4 after Ansh Rai, the leading wicket taker for the tourists, ripped out the top order to finish with 4-17 from 10 overs of left arm spin which befuddled the batters.

Ria, who opened the bowling with lively Anirudh Bolisetty (0-21 from 8 overs) had Jaden Dowlin the son of former West Indies batter, stumped for a duck, bowled Kishawn Silas (9), had Ryan

Dave Mohabir turns off his pads in his 56 at DCC. (Sean Devers photo)

AX Galaxy FC Female Team History will be created tomorrow night when the first female Regatta Football champions would be crowned. The four-team knockout tournament will conclude with the grand finale between AX Galaxy FC and Rivers View United.

In the semi-finals which took place on Wednesday night last at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, AX Galaxy stormed to an exciting 8-3 win over Lazio FC, while Rivers View United edged into the final by needling Potaro Strikers FC.

Anna Charles was the heroine of her club’s triumph over Potaro Strikers with a 20thminute effort that stood tall for the remainder of the encounter.

The AX Galaxy vs Lazio turned out to be a goal feast as 11 goals were scored at either end of the pitch on a rainy night.

When the final whistle was blown by the Referee, the score read, AX Galaxy 8, Lazio FC 3. All three of the losing side’s goals were scored by Cristy Thomas in the 4th, 42nd, and 46th min-

utes. An own goal from Lazio’s Valaria Leon opened proceedings for AX Galaxy which ran riot thereafter.

Blasting a hat-trick each were Lisa Pereira (21st, 39th, 43rd) and Joshana Gonsalves who rocked the nets in the 32nd, 34th, and 55th minutes. The other goal was converted by Rennea Fordyce in the 21st minute. Tomorrow’s female championship match will be played immediately after the male third-place game which kicks off at 17:00hrs. The male final will follow the historic female final.

Shiloh Adams sweeps during 53 at DCC yesterday.

(Sean Devers photo) Latif (1) caught before having Emmanuel Lewis (0) stumped.

Mohabir who made 56 from 84 balls with six boundaries and Adams, whose 53 lasted 89 balls and included eight fours then joined forces to stage ‘operation rebuild’.

Mohabir followed his

good bowling by adding 105 with Shiloh Adams for the fifth wicket before they were both dismissed in the space of two runs with victory two runs away.

NY Tri State will play their final game at DCC when face a GCA U-17 team in a two-day on Saturday and Sunday.

Rivers View United Female Team

Colombian football ‘Colossus’ Freddy...

Ansh Rai befuddled the batters as took 4-17. (Sean Devers photo)

From page 38 boots in 2004 after a final season with the Corinthians.

The midfielder was previously involved in a serious traffic accident in 2013 in which he suffered several fractures and a head injury.

After Monday’s fatal accident, local media broadcast a video in which a van

is seen crossing an intersection when a bus hits it on the passenger side.

In these images “it seems that the traffic light is red when the van crosses and there could also have been speeding” by the van or the bus, according to the Cali mayor’s office.

Rincon’s companions had

said he was at the wheel, according to an initial assessment by the authorities.

The mayor ’s office, however, said on Tuesday that only the attorney general’s office “will be in charge of determining the identity of the driver of the vehicle.”

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Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

International Masters Hardik brings the thrill Goodwill Football Tournament as Titans top table ESPN Cricinfo) - Hardik Pandya led from the front in all three departments - scoring an unbeaten 87 off 52 balls, picking up a wicket and effecting a run-out - to set up a 37-run win for Gujarat Titans at the DY Patil Stadium.

With four wins from five games, Titans are now at the top of the points table in IPL 2022.

After being put in, Pandya and Manohar added 86 off 55 balls for the fourth wicket to pull things away from Rajasthan Royals.

Pandya and Miller then ransacked 47 off the last three overs to further widen the gap.

Jos Buttler started the chase in style, but the other Royals batters failed to turn up.

Lockie Ferguson was superb, picking up 3 for 23.

Rashid Khan was economical, giving away only 24 from his four. And debutant Yash Dayal finished with 3 for 40 after going for 33 in his first two overs.

The only worry for Titans, at the moment, will be Pandya walking off the field with a thigh issue in the middle of his third over, the 18th of the Royals’ innings. <<A mixed start for Titans>> With Trent Boult missing out with a niggle, James Neesham opened the bowling for Royals.

Matthew Wade took advantage of that and struck three fours - two off full tosses on either side of the wicket and the third off a short and wide delivery.

Royals though had him run out in the very next over when Shubman Gill pushed one towards cover for a quick single but Rassie van der Dussen charged in, swooped low and nailed the direct hit at the striker’s end. Wade was well short.

Kuldeep Sen had a returning Vijay Shankar caught behind but Pandya took him on, smashing him for three successive fours in the fifth over.

As soon as the powerplay ended, Sanju Samson tried to sneak in an over from Riyan Parag as well.

Pandya welcomed him with a straight six before Gill pulled him to the square leg boundary for four. But Parag

Shimron Hetmyer appeared spent towards the close of his 17-ball 29. (BCCI Photo)

had the last laugh when Gill got too greedy and holed out to long-on. <<Pandya-Manohar stand revives Titans>> At 53 for 3 in the seventh over, Royals seemed to have the upper hand. The more so when the next four overs went only for 24. But Pandya and Manohar then stepped on the gas.

In the 13th over, Manohar hit Chahal’s consecutive balls for a four and six.

In the 14th, Sen ended up conceding three fours, the second of which brought up Pandya’s fifty off 33 balls.

Ashwin too came in for the punishment.

Pandya launched him for back-to-back sixes. Chahal removed Manohar for a 28ball 43 after conceding another six but now the stage was set for David Miller.

Sen paid the price of that as Miller hit him for three fours and a six in a 21-run 19th over. Pandya then struck a six and four off Prasidh in the final over to apply the finishing touch. <<The Buttler show>> Buttler got Royals to a flier, hitting Mohammed Shami for three fours in the first over of the chase. Leftarm seamer Dayal, who was making his IPL debut, was next in the line. Buttler hit him for two fours and a six over fine leg. But Dayal responded by having Devdutt Padikkal caught at slip for a first-ball duck.

After a quiet third over, Buttler once again got stuck into Dayal, this time hitting him for three fours and a six.

At the end of four overs, Buttler had scored 48 out of

49 runs Royals had on the board. <<Ferguson turns the tide>> Ashwin, who was promoted to No. 3, launched Rashid for a straight six. However, Ferguson sent him back - courtesy of an excellent, low catch from Miller at cover - for a run-a-ball 8.

Four balls later, Buttler shuffled across and helped Ferguson over fine leg for a six, bringing up his fifty off just 23 balls. But Ferguson struck again, this time with a slower yorker to castle Buttler. That left Royals 65 for 3 after the powerplay.

Another excellent piece of fielding saw Sanju Samson’s back.

The batter punched one towards mid-off for a quick single but couldn’t beat Pandya’s direct hit.

After three boundaryless overs, van der Dussen edged Dayal behind, leaving Royals 90 for 5 in the 11th over.

Shimron Hetmyer tried to keep the chase alive, hitting Shami for a six and a four before holing out to long-on in the same over.

In the last seven overs, Royals needed 76 with Parag and Neesham at the crease.

But Ferguson returned in the 16th over to dismiss Parag. Two overs later, Pandya had Neesham caught and bowled with a slower one to all but seal the game.

Match details: Gujarat Titans 192 for 4 (Pandya 87*, Manohar 43, Parag 1-12) beat Rajasthan Royals (Butter 54, Hetmyer 29, Ferguson 3-23, Dayal 3-40) by 37 runs.

concludes on Monday

The International Masters Goodwill Football Tournament culminates on Monday April 18, at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground with Guyana’s Masters tackling a Suriname Masters side in the final of the 3-match series.

Guyana and Suriname are the only two teams in the event and are tied at 1 – 1 after Guyana won the opening leg 1 – 2 in Suriname then the opposition leveled the series with a 0 – 1 victory at GFC. The victor of this match will lift the inaugural Championship Trophy since the aggregate is currently 2 – 2.

Recently, Director of Modern Optical Services Dr José Da Silva handed over the Modern Optical Trophy to the organiser of the event.

Monday’s match is slated to kick off at 19:00 hrs. The Surinamese contingent is scheduled to arrive on Saturday ahead of the match.

Meanwhile, the organiser is very appreciative for the assistance received for the event by sponsors such as Modern Optical Services, Impressions, Bounty Farm Ltd., Dyna’s Embroidery and Farm

Director of Modern Optical Services, Dr José Da Silva, hands over the Championship Trophy to Organiser of the Masters event, Sheldon Bobb (left).

Supply.

Guyana’s Team reads: Christopher Barnwell Snr (Captain), Andrew Brite, Shawn O’Neil, Selwin Issacs, Osbourne Gomes, Virgel Glasgow, Dexter Layne, , Ole Pedro, Rawle Gittens, Anthony Abrams, Nigel Denny,

Dellon Alleyne, Devon Forde, Mark Anthony, Ken Harvey, Tonie Lopes, Dexter Brandy, Christopher Williams and Terrence Muza.

Gordon ‘Ultimate Warrior’ Brathwaite has been charged with the task of coaching the local contingent.

NSC injects $1M into CARIFTA swim team’s budget The National Sports Commission (NSC) presented $1M to the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA), towards supporting the 10 athletes slated to represent Guyana at the CARIFTA Swimming Championships.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle presented the NSC’s cheque to Valmiki Singh, GASA’s Honorary Treasurer towards their participation at the 35th hosting of the championships which will take place in Barbados, April 16 – 20. Ninvalle said the NSC is committed to supporting the country’s national teams and athletes, but encouraged all National Federations and Associations to submit their plans and budget to receive the necessary funding.

Meanwhile, GASA president, Dwayne Scott, thanked the NSC, adding that the Commission is one of the more dependable partners of GASA and “has continued to show support to all our programmes.” “GASA is extremely grateful to NSC, the

GASA Honorary Treasurer, Valmiki Singh (R) receiving the NSC’s $1M cheque from Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, towards Guyana’s participation at the 35th CARIFTA Swimming Championships.

Director of Sport and the Coach Sean Baksh (Open Minister of Sports and Water) and Elkie Rodrigues Culture for their contribution (Manager) are the officials and support towards our travelling with the contingent. team’s participation at the At the 2019 CARIFTA 2022 CARIFTA Games,” Scott Swimming Championships, said. Daniel Claxton, Elliot and Guyana finished with five Ethan Gonsalves, Marius medals – three gold and two (Open Water) and Mario bronze, all of which were won Ramkhlawan, Nathan by Olympian Aleka Persaud.

Jackson, Vishal Babulall, Competing in the Girls 11 Shareefa Lewis, Amber – 12 category, Persaud won DeGoeas (Open Water) and Gold in the 100M fly and 50m Zane Crane are the athletes free and 100m free events, representing Guyana. while claiming bronze in the Coach Shyka Gonsalves, 200M and 50M fly events.

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 35

Golden Jags lurk into French Guiana territory for friendlies The Guyana Senior Men’s National Team has started preparations in Cayenne for two friendly matches against French Guiana on Saturday, April 16 and Monday, April 18, as part of an intensive warm-up regime ahead of the Concacaf Nations League in June.

The two fixtures with French Guiana, ranked 16th in the Concacaf region, will provide an appropriate test for the Golden Jaguars, with both sides set to compete in the second tier of the Concacaf Nations League this year.

Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz said he was eager to maintain momentum in the squad’s development following an impressive display in the Courts Caribbean Classic, which saw Guyana thump Barbados 50 before holding hosts Trinidad and Tobago to a thrilling 1-1 draw.

“It’s great to get two more matches and to keep the core of the squad active,” Shabazz said.

“I like the improvements we are seeing individually and collectively.

The attitudes are improving and even the most stubborn egos are bringing themselves into line.”

The squad is drawn entirely from Guyana-based players, with the highly experienced Trinidadian-born coach looking to provide a platform for homegrown talent to shine on the international stage.

“No doubt the overseas lads set a high standard in their effort, attitude and discipline in the recent matches in Trinidad,” he said.

“However, as we widen the pool, this game creates an opportunity for others, and plus we brought in a couple new faces.”

The 22-man squad features new faces in Guyana Defence Force winger Ian Dooker and the promising Police F.C. rising star Jemar Harrigan.

Striker Osafo Simpson has earned a recall after being out of the team s i n c e F I FA World Cup qualifiers last year.

Defender Nicolai Andrews is back from injury, while U20 national midfielder Darron Niles returns after missing out on the friendly tournament in Trinidad. In the absence of the squad’s veteran keepers, Shabazz selected two young goalkeepers in Sese Norville and Ronaldo Blair.

“Thus far, I love how the senior guys in the squad like Trayon Bobb, Quincy Adams, Jeremy Garrett and Daniel Wilson have stepped up. I look forward to their leadership in these two matches,” the head coach stated.

Shabazz said that, no matter which team takes to the field, the importance and responsibilities remain the same for anyone wearing the national colours.

“The guys know that in the program, players will be in and out of the team for different reasons. The main issue is to represent Guyana with pride and a huge sense of responsibility.”

Guyana has been drawn against Caribbean powerhouse Haiti, Bermuda and Montserrat in Group B of Concacaf Nations League B, with the winners of each group automatically qualifying for the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup and the top “A” tier of the Nations League.

The runners-up of each group will proceed to the preliminary qualification round of the Gold Cup. To reach Cayenne, the squad undertook a lengthy trip by coach via Suriname.

“It’s a long road trip, but I see smiling faces, I see lads ready to give everything to fight for places in the team,” Shabazz noted.

“So, yes, it’s difficult to drive for a day or more, but it gives the opportunity for us to learn to rise above adversity and still battle.”

“If everyone could swim like me, I would have suggested we swim part of the j o u r n e y, ” he humoured. “This trip is f o r j a g u ars and we are Golden Jaguars.”

The Guyana Senior Men’s National Squad for the French Guiana friendlies is as follows: Goalkeepers - Ronaldo Blair, Sese Norville; Defenders - Jeremy Garrett, Quincy Adams, Marcus Wilson, Leo Lovell, Nicolai Andrews, Shemar Fraser; Midfielders - Daniel Wilson, Clive Nobrega, Job Caesar, Javier George, Darron Niles, Jemar Harrigan, Ryan Hackett; Forwards - Trayon Bobb, Kelsey Benjamin, Ian Dooker, Jaminine Beckles, Jamal Perriera, Pernell Schultz, Osafo Simpson.

Staff: Jamaal Shabazz (Head Coach), Rawle Adams (Team Manager), Wayne Do-

ver (Assistant Coach), Charles Pollard (Assistant Coach), Dylan Palmer (Fitness Coach), Dexter George (Physiotherapist), Trevor Burnett (Equipment Manager), Keeron Tanner (Video/ IT Technician).

Dylan Palmer leads the Golden Jaguars in the warm up sessions.

Fitness Coach Dylan Palmer leads the Golden Jaguars in the warm up sessions.

PAGE 36

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

East Coast Cricket Board/ Navin-Hanso 50overs First Division...

Enterprise, Enmore, Better Hope, Fairfield and LBI register wins Enterprise, Enmore, Better Hope, Fairfield and LBI registered wins when the second round of matches in the East Coast Cricket Board/ NavinHanso 50Overs first division cricket competition continued last weekend.

Scores: At Enterprise cricket ground, batting first, Mahaica SC were skittled out for 49 all out in 14.4 overs. B. Samaroo had figures of 4-13 off 5overs,

while Rajendra Chandrika had figures of 2-27. Enterprise in reply, raced to 55 for the loss of 1 wicket in just 5overs. H. Dindyal struck a quick-fire 25, while V. Albert hit 18 not out.

Enterprise Busta Sports Club won by 9 wickets.

ECCCC vs Lusignan SC ECCCC racked up 266 all out in 43.2overs of a 45 over game with Chaitram Balgobin top scoring with 70, while Amir Khan followed up his century

in the first round with a shot filled 63.Vishwanauth Ramlakhan also contributed well with an even 50. Bowling for Lusignan Sports Club, Karamchand Persaud had a five wicket haul to finish with figures of 5-48 off 9overs and Navin Persaud 2 wickets for 48 runs. Lusignan in reply could only muster 86 before they were dismissed in the 28th over. Stephen Ramdas top scored with 36.

Balgobin returned with the ball to grab 4 wickets for 4 runs off 4overs and Yuvraj Dayal had figures of 2-5.

Better Hope Vs Ogle Better Hope won the toss and inserted Ogle to bat in a game reduce to 45overs. Ogle mustered a paltry 41 all out in 21 overs with former national youth batsman Sachin Singh bagging 4-15 off 9 overs and Rajendra Singh supporting with 3-14, while Ravi Singh

Chaitram Balgobin also had a 3 wicket haul in his 6overs which went for a meagre 8 runs. Better Hope then raced to 48/3 in 11.2 overs.

Fairfield Rivals vs Strathavon SC Fairfield batting first after winning the toss made 144 all out in 35 overs. Former national under19 batsman Ramnarine Chatura stroked an even 50. Bowling for Strathavon SC, Prakash Chowtie took 3-26 and Ajay Persaud 3-20. In reply, Strathavon SC managed 131 all out in 31.3 overs to lose by 13 runs. Gobindram Hemraj top scored with 36. Ramnarine Chatura returned with the ball

to take 4-25, while Karpov George took 3-16 bowling for Fairfield Rivals.

LBI CC vs Buxton CC Over at LBI Facility ground, LBI won the toss and batted first compiling 273 for 9 from 50overs with Ariel Tilku 75, Nizam Khan 52, Alex Algoo 34, Richard Dowlatram 24.

Bowling for Buxton CC, Anthony McFarlene took 2 for 45 from 10 overs. Buxton in reply, limped to 101 all out from 26 overs with Owen Andrews contributing 31.Yojeshwar Bishun had impressive figures of 5 for 29, while Dowlatram had 3 for 19 and Tilku took 2 for 22.

Inaugural ‘Run with me’ rated a success The inaugural Run with me road race, which was hosted in Potaro-Siparuni and facilitated by the Potaro Secondary School, unfolded and was rated a success.

The one mile race which began up to High School Hill proceeded down the Big Hill, which features the ‘Black Live Matter’ slogan, headed to Dino’s Corner, turned into Second Avenue and ended at the Bartica Community Centre Ground.

In the Boys category, Austel Evans was the top finisher ahead of Adriano Stoby and Christian Ramkarran who finished second and third, respectively.

For the Girls, Arianna Pole was the first through the finish line while Keziah Bisson and Arianna Loncke ended second and third, in that order.

The trophies and medals for the event were made possible by Ricky Ramnarine, Kenneth William’s, Brian Bascom, Abraham’s Boat Service, Michael DosSantos, Budesh Chatterpaul, Sophia Phillip’s, Randy Adams, Ms. Bissoon, Pamela Daniels, Marlo Lashley, Jinelle Williams, Rea Clementson, Loveina Joseph and Michael DeFreitas.

Special thanks were also extended to the businesses that provided water, which are Kimberley’s Taxi Service, Ryan’s General Store and Ramsingh’s General Store.

The Regional Education Department, the Traffic Department and Bartica Hospital were also unwavering in offering other services for the event.

Friday April 15, 2022

PAGE 37

Kaieteur News

Annual Mayor’s Cup 9-a-side Inter Ward/Village KO Football

Competition set for Buxton ground Sunday - Last two days of tourney set for April 24 and May 1 Football fans on the East Coast can look forward to a healthy serving of football action on Sunday when the Buxton ground comes alive with competition in the Annual Mayor’s Cup 9-a-side Inter Ward/Village Knockout Football tournament.

Teams are in the hunt for the few remaining quarterfinal places and the contests promises to be intense. Sunday’s play at Buxton commences from 6:00pm with New Amsterdam coming up against Turkeyen. That will be followed by Airy Hall facing City Strikers then Tucville oppose Smyth Town and Timehri battle Mahaicony in the preliminary matches.

Following those games, the winners collide for a place in the quarters. Two key games will close out the night with Friendship Front colliding with Road Warriors and BV opposing Bourda All Stars with the winners securing places in the quarterfinals.

Following further changes to the fixtures on the original programme due to an unforeseen circumstance, organizer

and former national footballer and coach, Lennox Arthur, has fixed games for the Den Amstel next Sunday April 24 from 2:00pm when the tournament continues. Pouderoyen are down to face Stewartville, Sara Lodge challenge Back Street Kings, Den Amstel battle Uitvlugt and West Side Spartan tangle with Bagotville. The winners will collide after to claim their quarterfinal spot.

Arthur informed that the grand finale is set for May 1 at Buxton with the quarters, semis and finale to close the curtains on this 2022 edition of the Mayor’s Cup in honour of current Mayor of Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine.

Several leading footballers are expected to be on show and among them are Gregory Richardson, Jamaal Harvey, Ryan Hackett, Jeremy Garnett and Delon Lanferman.

Haslington and Sparta Boss were the early teams through to the quarterfinals and a keen battle is promised Sunday and next Sunday April 24 for the remaining

Victories for Hibernia, CCC, Queenstown in ESCL’s over-40 competition Hibernia Strikers, Caribbean Cricket Club (CCC) and Queenstown Tigers registered wins last Sunday at Hibernia ground and Affiance ground, Region Town, Essequibo Coast in the latest round of the 2022 Essequibo Softball Cricket league (ESCL) over40, 20-overs competition.

Hibernia Strikers defeated Devonshire Castle Sports Club by four wickets while CCC got the better of Ravens Sports Club by 33 runs and Queenstown Tigers roared to an exciting three-wicket win against Sunrisers Masters.

Devonshire Castle tallied up a competitive 166-9 from the 20-overs, while Hibernia Strikers surpassed the target in the 18th over. Ramkissoon Seeram led the way for the winner with an unbeaten 79 while Mohammed Sidique played a supportive role with 28.

When Devonshire Castle batted at Affiance facility, Anthony Persaud scored 76 and 28 from Darshand Lall.

Seeram proved his all-round ability by bagging three wickets for 27 runs from his four overs.

CCC set up a formidable total of 258-8 from their 20-

Ramkissoon Seeram overs with Richard Patterson getting an impressive 67 and Prashad Mahadeo scoring 55 for CCC. Punraj Singh claimed 3-30 off his four overs bowling for Ravens while Marvin Pearson took 2-44 (4).

When Ravens appeared at the crease, seasoned campaigner Ramesh Narine struck a fine 76 while Lakmikant Narine made 51 not out.

Yaseer Mohammed grabbed 4-37 in his four-overs outing while Ekie Baksh assisted with 2-28 off four overs.

Sunrisers Masters’ 212-7 off 20-overs turned out to be insufficient as Queenstown Tigers achieved the winning run in the 19th over.

Karan Ramanan hit a topscore for Queenstown Tigers with 63 while Paulo Narine (Continued on page 31)

places in the quarters.

Maggie’s has joined the list of sponsors which include: IPA, DDL, Digicel, Johil, John Fernandes, General Equipment, Busta, GTT, Namilco, Macorp, New Thriving, Sattar Gafoor, B. Megan, Pritipaul Singh, Ready Mix, Eddie Bobcat, Silvie’s, Caribbean Containers, E Networks,

Super Bet, Cummings Electrical, China Trading, Dave Lumber yard, Schlumberger, Maggie’s, Pure Diamond, Gold Target Exports and CIDI. Arthur has expressed heartfelt gratitude to them for their assistance.

The teams are battling for attractive prize money and the respective trophies with a first prize of $600,000, second prize $300,000, third $200,000 and

fourth $100,000 on offer. Mid Atlantic Oil and Gas Company is the sponsor for the winning purse of $600,000.

The rules governing the tournament includes the no offside rule and teams are allowed five substitutions. The games are of two 20-minute halves for a 40-minute duration. The tournament is a straight knockout one with no extra time being played. A tie

at the end of regulation would result in the teams dueling in the dreaded sudden death penalty shootout.

All other FIFA rules apply and the Referee is the sole authority of these games.

Teams showing up late beyond a reasonable time determined by the organisers will be disqualified and their game forfeited via the walkover route.

PAGE 38

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

Vreed -en -Hoop Secondary are Region 3 champs It came as no surprise that the seasoned team on the big stage, Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary, are the Region 3 School Girls champions.

They defeated Leonora Secondary School in the final of the National Sports Commission /MCYS Janet Jagan Memorial Windball cricket competition at the National Gymnasium, recently.

Vreed-en-Hoop batted first after winning the toss

and scored 104-1, with player of the finals Vasantie Kishore smashing 42 (5x6), Nicole Narine 24 and Denicia Singh 22.

Leonora were restricted to 74-2; Roslin Samaroo was run out for 44 (6x6) and Rosemund Harvey 12.

Sheemiah Daniels had one wicket.

2019 second place team Zeeburg Secondary School, went on to capture the 3rd

place, they beat L’ Aventure Secondary School.

Zeeburg batted first and rattled up 116-1. Sarah Bheir and Rashoda Khan were left not out on 44 and 40 respectively, while Shontay Lyte made 14. L’ Aventure replied with 84-0. Akeela Lewis scored 60 (7x6) and Keiara Jack 20.

The organisers would like to thank the Regional Education Officer Region 3, the Headteachers, Teachers, StuLeonora Secondary with teachers AL Sport & Tour Promotions Officials & Region 3 Sports Officer. dents all the Drivers who ensured the students got to the Gymnasium and returned s a f e , t h e St a ff ’s a t t h e venue & the AL Sport & Tour Promotions Officials.

More than three hundred and thirty (330) students participated in this programme at the National Gymnasium along with 46 teachers were in attendance.

Colombian football ‘Colossus’ Freddy Rincon dies aged 55 AFP - Colombian former international midfield star Freddy Rincon died on Wednesday aged 55 of injuries he sustained in a traffic accident, doctors said.

Rincon suffered a severe head injury following a collision on Monday between the vehicle he was travelling in and a bus in the southwest city of Cali.

The former Real Madrid and Napoli ace underwent almost three hours of surgery before being transferred to intensive care, but died on Wednesday.

“Despite all the efforts made by our medical and care team, the patient Freddy Eusebio Rincon Valencia has died today,” said the Imbanaco Clinic in Cali, which was treating him.

“We ask everyone to honor and praise the life of Freddy Eusebio for all the joys he gave us,” clinic director Laureano Quintero said, his voice breaking, after reading the official statement.

Colombia’s football federation, the FCF, said his death was “a great loss” and “we will miss him and remember him with great affection, appreciation, respect and admiration.”

“The Colombian Football Federation deeply regrets the death of Freddy Eusebio Rincon Valencia, and sends a message of support and encouragement to his family, friends and relatives at this difficult time,” it said in a statement.

Rincon was born in the southwestern port city of Buenaventura and was

known as the “Colossus” during his career. He was a star of the Colombia side that played at the World Cup in Italy in 1990 and also featured at two more World Cups. - ‘A great idol’ Rincon spent much of his career in Brazil, turning out for Palmeiras and Corinthians, where he won the FIFA Club World Cup in 2000. “It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to a great idol. Our captain in the first world title, Freddy Rincon, passed away in the early hours,” Corinthians tweeted with a photo of Rincon. “Eternally in our hearts.”

World football’s governing body FIFA expressed “sincere condolences” to Rincon’s “loved ones, former teammates and fans from the clubs he played for.”

Rincon was part of a talented Colombian team that qualified for the 1990 World Cup finals, ending their 28year absence from football’s most prestigious tournament.

He is particularly remembered for a last-minute goal in their 1-1 draw against powerful West Germany, the eventual World Cup winners.

Rincon started his career in the 1980s with Santa Fe and America de Cali before joining Brazilian club Palmeiras.

He also had a stint with Napoli and then joined Real Madrid. Rincon spent only one season at the Bernabeu and in a 2012 interview with the Spanish daily Marca spoke of the “very marked racism” he had suffered at Real Madrid. He hung up his (Continued on page 33)

Friday April 15, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary rts o p S are Region 3 champs

The Winners Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary with teachers AL Sport & Tour Promotions Officials & Region 3 Sports Officer.

Colombian football 'Colossus' Freddy Rincon dies aged 55

Annual Mayor's Cup 9-a-side Inter Ward/Village KO Football

Competition set for Buxton - Last two days of tourney ground Sunday set for April 24 and May 1 The participants took a photo opportunity after they received their prizes.

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