K
Efforts ongoing Wednesday Edition NEWS to ensure minimum exposure of public to radioactive substances - EPA AIETEUR
April 20, 2022 - Vol. 17 No. 17
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 67,623
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Guyana will need more than updated laws, proper oversight for oil to be springboard for development - Expert
Zainab Usman, PhD Senior Fellow/Director, Africa Programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
3 months after disastrous spill…
Peru fishermen can now access emergency fund
Environmentalist urges Govt. to pursue solar power generation Almost two years later…
VP Jagdeo yet to honour promise to release Payara report by controversial Canadian politician
Confirm Chancellor and Chief Justice
- Article 13 urges
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
GMSA elects new board of directors
M
a n a g i n g Director of Woods Direct, Mr. Rafeek Khan, has been re-elected unopposed to head the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA). He will be supported by Mr. Ramsay Ali, CEO of Sterling Products Limited, as First Vice President and Chairman of AgroProcessing Sub-sector; Dr. Vi s h n u D o e rg a o f ActionINVEST Caribbean I n c . , a s S e c o n d Vi c e President and Mr. Vasudeo Singh, Chief Financial
Officer of Demerara Distillers Limited, as Third Vi c e - P r e s i d e n t a n d Treasurer. In a release, it was noted that the GMSA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the fiscal year 2022-2023. This was held in two parts, as is customary. On March 31, 2022, 13 board directors were elected through a blended voting process, in-person and virtually. On April 19, 2022, the President, three VicePresidents and Treasurer, the remaining members, were
elected to form the full complement of the Board of Directors. Mr. Khan, in his brief remarks to the Board, emphasised his gratitude in being re-elected to serve once more as President. He stated, “I am humbled by the opportunity to serve you and the invaluable G M S A membership for a second term. I have no doubt that this year will be even more dynamic and progressive for the GMSA.” M r. K h a n f u r t h e r explained that it is his vision to create a dynamic and
progressive GMSA by ensuring greater representation and maximising opportunities for the membership of the association. He underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in creating and enabling cohesive and conducive environments. The sub-sectors within the GMSA have been re-aligned and will reflect AgroProcessing and Agriculture being separate, the emergence of an Information Communications & Technology (ICT) subsector
and the merging of Forestry and Mining which will form Extractive Industries. This, he notes, will ensure maximum benefits to members are received coupled with aiding where Guyana is currently heading with the advent of the Oil and Gas sector. Mr. Khan stressed the importance of joint interministerial working groups and how these have aided the GMSA. He hopes to engage more ministries in the future to further compliment the work. As an addition, a trade and investment committee will be set up within the GMSA to assist in the facilitation of trade relations in Guyana and across the region. “This committee will also help to foster opportunities for investments across all our sectors by seeking out more non-traditional financing,” stated Mr. Khan. Finally, he added that of utmost importance, he will be working for the membership of GMSA and assisting them to take their businesses to the next level amid the many challenges being faced globally. The 2022/2023 Board of Directors are as follows: Durable Wood Products – Mr. Rafeek Khan, President of GMSA; Sterling Products Ltd. – Mr. Ramsay Ali, First Vi c e - P r e s i d e n t a n d Chairman of AgroProcessing Sub-sector; ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. – Dr. Vishnu Doerga, Second Vice-President; Demerara Distillers Ltd – Mr. Vasudeo Singh, Third Vi c e - P r e s i d e n t a n d Treasurer; Agro Services Inc. – Mr. Aditya Persaud, Chairman of Agriculture Sub-sector; New GPC Inc. – Mr. Narendranauth Maraj, Chairman of Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Sub-sector; Brass Aluminium and Cast Iron Foundry – Mr. Peter Pompey, Chairman of Construction and Engineering Sub-sector; Superior Woods – Mr. Denish Bisessar, Chairman of Extractive Industries Subsector; DENMOR Garment Manufacturers – Ms. Upasna Mudlier, Chairman of Textiles and Sewn Goods Sub-sector; GTT – Mr. Orson Ferguson, Chairman o f I n f o r m a t i o n Communication Technology (ICT) Sub-sector; Social Rank Media – Mr. Rosh Khan, Chairman of Services Sub-sector The executive members include: Banks DIH Ltd.– Mr. Ramesh Dookhoo, Barama Company Ltd. – Mr.
Re-elected unopposed, GMSA President, Rafeek Khan
GMSA First Vice President, Mr. Ramsay Ali
GMSA Second Vice President, Dr. Vishnu Doerga
GMSA Third Vice President and Treasurer, Mr. Vasudeo Singh Mohindra Chand, Bulkan Ti m b e r Wo r k s – M s . Roseann Bulkan, Edward B. Beharry and Company Ltd. – Mr. Raymond Ramsaroop, Environmental Management Consultants – Mr. Shyam N o k t a , G A I C O Construction and Engineering Service – Mr. Komal Singh, NAMILCO – Mr. Vishal Lalbachan, UMAMI Inc. – Mr. Chris Persaud, Latitude Geospatial Consulting Inc. – Mr. Haimwant Persaud and Tropical Shipping Agents – Ms. Glenis Hodge.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2022
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VP Jagdeo yet to honour promise to release Payara report by controversial Canadian politician Almost two years later…
Canada’s tax dollars. She was also found to have benefitted from money donated to her former
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Canadian lawyer and former politician, Alison Redford
Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat
It has been one year and seven months since the Irfaan Ali-led government has failed to honour its solemn promise to release a critical report conducted by controversial Canadian consultant, Alison Redford on the US$9B Payara project. Specifically, Natural R e s o u r c e s M i n i s t e r, Vickram Bharrat had said on September 15, 2020 that the Redford report on the review of the Payara Field Development Plan (FDP) would be made public in that very month. In December 2020, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo had also given a public commitment to have the said document made public. President Irfaan Ali had made similar utterances too. The PPP Government subsequently granted its approval for the Payara project on September 30, 2020. But the Redford report and the terms of reference of her work remain hidden from public scrutiny. The Redford report is of particular importance to transparency advocates and civil society groups since it would provide a deeper understanding of the extent to which Guyana’s interest was protected. Her report is not only a review of the Payara FDP but also contains an assessment of the work that was started on the Exxon document by UK-based, Bayphase Oil & Gas
Consultants. Bayphase—a known client of Exxon—had started its review under the D a v i d G r a n g e r Administration but the 2020 elections disrupted the process. The COVID-19 pandemic also had its impact. It should be noted that Bayphase has performed the review of both the Liza Phase 2 Environmental Impact Assessment and the Field Development Plan as well as the Field Development Plan review for the US$10B Yellowtail. These projects, along with Payara, are worth approximately US$30B. But the work of the Bayphase group has never made it into the public domain despite calls for this to be done in the interest of transparency and accountability. Using a grant from Canada, the PPP/C Government after assuming office in August 2020 hired a team headed by Redford. F o l l o w i n g t h e announcement in 2020 that Redford and her team would be completing the FDP review, several critical questions were raised about her past as a politician and her experience in assessing projects worth billions of US dollars. Kaieteur News had reported that Redford, an expolitician, resigned from her post as Premier of Alberta, Canada in 2014 for inappropriately spending
political party by an ExxonMobil subsidiary in Canada, called Imperial Oil. Also, Redford does not have
a known background or track record as being a successful FDP reviewer for governments with resources
similar or far beyond what Guyana has. Importantly, there were Continued on page 29
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 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
Criminal governance at its best
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eaders in the PPP/C Government may think they are so sophisticated that what they are doing goes over the heads of Guyanese. Perhaps, if the governments practices were some occasional event, there might have been some truth to what government leaders comfort themselves in thinking. Also, if what they are doing and plan to do involved matters of tiny importance, they could have gotten away with those situations. Since none of the above applies when the PPP/C Government practices are studied, then they have fooled few, thus narrowing prospects of success in their culture of larceny. Because unthinking arrogance now controls Government leaders, they are their own worst enemies. They are too predictable, too detectable, and have degraded into what is the unbelievable. Said differently, they have not only shot off their mouths, but have also shot themselves in the foot. It is why they are always on the defensive and running for cover when the bigger things in Guyanese life form the center of attention. First, what the PPP/C Government has done is visit the same wells once too often. A smart set of leaders would have some restraining hand and voice on the inside to say let us not go down this road again, or so quickly. It is why so many have come to discern a certain pattern of leadership behaviour that can only be described as purely criminal. Such things can only be stuffed down the throats of utter idiots, and in a watchful and critical and untrusting society there are only a few imbeciles. Second, once money is involved, government are bound to be present, and the bigger the sum involved, the more of them and bigger ones among them gather under the money tree. This is now as good as a guarantee, with one project after another furnishing a long chain of evidence. The biggest money mass in Guyana today (though relatively small, it is growing) is in the natural resource magic coming out of the ground called oil. Government leaders gather there. Oil causes drooling, makes them not know what to do with themselves. In the rush and free for all, they are so compulsively greedy, they are elbowing even their own out of the way, or tripping them up with tricks, so as not to lessen their share of the thievery. This is how pathetic they come across, what the sum of their self-enriching antics provides inarguable confirmation. Incidentally, what they are engaging in with the wholesale setting up of themselves and their circle of cronies so that they can steal at will is not antics, but criminality of a kind rarely seen, even by rapacious Third World leadership standards. Third, the avarice is not limited to oil alone, but stretches sucking tentacles into gold and school money and flood relief money and COVID-19 relief money. Nothing is beyond the covetousness and ugliness of these thieving men and women elected to lead a poor nation forward. Prime lands and prized real estate properties catch their eye, they even help themselves from sugar money (robbing their own), such is the intensity of their addiction to money. Perhaps, if they were content with stealing on a below the radar level, they may have flourished, but they cant help themselves, so it must be everything and the bigger the better. Similarly, anything related to quality in this society is of no interest to these rogues. Quality would mean spending for others to benefit, hence less for them. Quantity is king, and the larger the amount from a sector or a project, the bigger the take for these lowlifes feeding on the taxpayers. Last, anything associated with consolidating their power brings a huge rush. For such means that they become more entrenched, and longer at the national trough, while the people starve and eat each other. There is no genuine talk today of a truly inclusionary democracy, for that translates to restraints and having to spread the nations wealth. They delay watchdog bodies, but rush through so-called electoral reform. They scorn national unity, since that leads to more bodies at the banquet. In the annals of leadership banditry, the PPP/C Government makes Al Capone look like John the Baptist.
A civil society alliance for renegotiation or Third Force Party needed DEAR EDITOR, The columnist Peeping Tom recently said, “When it comes to the renegotiation of the highly flawed oil agreement, Guyanese should no longer look towards either the government or the Opposition. Both have made it quite clear that there will be no renegotiation of the agreement. This constitutes a betrayal of the public interest. For if there is any agreement which requires renegotiation, it is the Production Sharing Agreement entered between the oil companies and the government of Guyana. Many agree with Tom’s suggestion, and the renegotiation movement is growing. The people of Guyana must never be bullied, be beguiled, and be deceived to accept, nor agree to the notion that the PNC signed a bad contract and nothing can be done about it. If this is true, we are doomed as a nation, and poor people are doomed forever in a land of plenty! This is simply unacceptable. What kind of jellyfish leaders do we have? Can you imagine Dr. Jagan or even the tyrant Burnham taking such a weak, sellout position? What happen to the party of Jagan that was anti-
imperialist, anti-colonialist, and working class? Did Jaganism die with Comrade Cheddi and Janet? What ideology replaced it? Reverse Robin Hood? The new Opposition Leader was also a Young Socialist Movement (YSM) guy, an anti-imperialist, anti-colonialist, and working class. What happened? This guy was swearing that he never said the “R” word – RENEGOTIATION. I feel so sorry for the PNC people. Will this guy get reelected and be the PNC presidential candidate in 2025? In such a Civil Society alliance that Peeping Tom advocates, the trade union movement should be a big part. Of all people, they should understand without renegotiation there can be no increases in salary through “living wage” reforms, better employee pension schemes, old age pension schemes with annual cost-of-living adjustments, new social security/ income supports for housewives and stay-athome moms, income support for self-employed people, the disabled and other vulnerable populat i o n s . S a d l y, t h e t r a d e union movement is divided and we have PPP unions and PNC unions – the TUC and FITUG. I hope workers
would start a movement to push their unions to lead a “renegotiation” initiative, cancel their union membership if they don’t, and start new unions that will support renegotiation. The religious groups, which should be in the forefront of leading a “renegotiation” alliance, are such a sad case. Especially, my group - the Pentecostals have been singing zestfully for a long time, “I shall not, I shall not be moved!” These are the worst kind, an embarrassment to our Christ, as they preach about “Daniel in the Lion’s den,” “Esther,” and Moses and Joshua leading people out of bondage, and the prophets rebuking their nations’ sins, but they are busy appointing themselves as “Apostles,” and doing nothing. These are the worst because they tell the people give me your tithes and seed offerings n o w, a n d y o u w i l l b e blessed later. They forget their “liberation theology.” Renegotiation leads to bigger tithes and offerings, and more money for the churches! So, Mr. Tom, there is a loose Alliance now. Loud voices are Mr. Glenn Lall, KN, SN, the Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN), the “Our Wealth,
Our Country” (OWOC) group, Article 13, TIGI, some environmentalists, and a growing chorus of groups and individuals who understand the rich will get richer and poor will get poorer, unless we go back to constructing a new deal contract. Mr. Lincoln Lewis and Norris Witter are in support of renegotiation and they have nothing to lose if they break away from the PNC on this matter and bring along the other unions. A Trade Union’s first loyalty is to the workers who pay their dues, not politicians who use them. In the absence of a national, formal Civil Society Alliance for Renegotiation, political space has been created for the emergence of a Third Force with renegotiation as its basis. Nation, we should hope this happens soon! After all, Guyana’s wealth belongs to Guyanese, not politicians who want to govern natural resources poorly to benefit themselves and collaborating bourgeoisie and petty bourgeoisie classes. Let’s take back our wealth from crooked politicians and neocolonialists, and take back Guyana! Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall
NBS says Ombudsman did not link Arjoon’s firing to investment in Berbice Bridge DEAR EDITOR, The New Building Society Limited (NBS) notes with grave concern that there continues to be inaccurate reporting of the Maurice Arjoon Appeal Case touching and concerning his summary dismissal from NBS, which is currently engaging the attention of the Court of Appeal in Guyana. Of most recent, Kaieteur News on April 13, 2022 made reference to an Ombudsmans Report which it published “…confirmed Arjoons contention that he was framed for refusing to lend some $2B of NBS money to the Bharrat Jagdeo-led government for the construction of the Berbice River Bridge”. This statement is factually inaccurate, a mischaracterization of the findings of the Ombudsmans Report, in breach of the sub judice rule, prejudicial to the pending appeal proceedings and damaging to the reputation of the Society as a premier financial institution in
Guyana. Contrary to the above inaccurate published statement, the Ombudsman in his Report at pg. 23 stated, “I have no jurisdiction to pronounce on the action of the NBS Board in firing the managers and I therefore refrain from any comment.” NBS was not invited to take part in the determination of the complaint made to the Ombudsman by Maurice Arjoon. The Ombudsman nor his office did not invite NBS to so partake. He never sought to interview or obtain a statement from the New Building Society or the Board of Directors. We categorically state that the Berbice Bridge investment was one of the most profitable investments made in the history of the Society and continues to be a profitable venture. There were absolutely no risks involved in that investment and there was no disagreement or disaffection with Mr. Arjoons position on
that matter nor was he dismissed for his alleged lack of support of the investment or anything touching and concerning that investment. His dismissal emanated out of completely different circumstances touching and concerning the execution of his duties. Any insinuation or allegation to the contrary or that he was “framed” by NBS is a complete fabrication. It is most regrettable that just a day after Counsel for NBS made mention during the hearing of the said appeal of the continued public statements being made thereon in breach of the sub judice rule, that such statements would be proffered. In the premises, we call on media houses to observe the sub judice rule and to ensure that published statements are not prejudicial to individuals or organizations that are involved in litigation matters. Specifically, with regard to Kaieteur News, we call on them to wholly withdraw the aforesaid inaccurate state-
ment and issue an unreserved apology to NBS. Sincerely, Anil Beharry CEO/Director/Secretary (ag) New Building Society Editor’s Note: Apology Kaieteur News hereby issues an apology to the New Building Society with regard to an article published in the ongoing appeal between Maurice Arjoon and the bank. In a recent article, this newspaper erroneously stated that a Ombudsman report had confirmed Arjoon’s contention that he was framed for refusing to lend some $2B of NBS’ money to the Bharrat Jagdeo-led government for the construction of the Berbice River Bridge. However, the ombudsman’s finding did not pronounce on anything related to this allegation. As such, this publication wishes to apologise to the NBS and regrets any inconvenience this error may have caused.
Wednesday April 20, 2022
What an Empty Work Environment DEAR EDITOR, It cannot even be filled by thousands of part-time jobs in a (maximum) Region – 6. Some might argue it is not an optimum offer. It is just the largest of empty range of positions across our Eldoradic Oil and Gas territory. For example, to cross the Demerara Harbour Bridge (Corporation), you have to be a 1) Civil Engineer; 2) Shift Supervisor; but only if you are not interested in a ‘Career Opportunity’ as an Advertising Clerk – to publish other ‘Opportunities’, like Managing Director in Merchant Banking. If however, the latter is too ambitious a position, one can settle for being a Financial Accountant – in the hope of not suffering any ‘blackouts’ (at GPL). Positions unlikely to be affected by the same ‘blackout’ disarrangement include: Assistant Database Administrator; Business Systems Analyst; GIS Technician – all of whose TORs (not JDs) can be accessed (quite appropriately) on the organisation’s website. So that written ap-
plications mean immediate rejection. On the other hand, if you just want to enjoy your work, you can settle for being an Assistant Manager with ENTA FUN Park Inc. However, none of these prospective candidates would be able to cope with the international position of Contract Analyst, who amongst a host of requirements education must include: “Fluent in English both written and spoken and excellent communication skills” while Core Competencies/ Skills must include being a: “Team player with good communication and written skills” – incidentally, exactly the same for a ‘Treasury Specialist’. Interestingly also “Good Communication and Interpersonal Skills” are amongst the range of knowledge requirements for the vacant position of Mining Supervisor. All the above in just one day’s publication – April 13 – a fateful number. Hopefully applicants are not superstitious. Regards, Elijah Bijay
How can you run a country on warnings, ‘riot acts’ and threats? DEAR EDITOR, Please allow me to highlight a few noticeable headlines in the print media: 1. ‘Government threatens to take over city streets to curb roadside vending’ (KN, April 13th, 2022 2. ‘Hicken issues warning to Sergeants’ (SN, 4/22) 3. ‘Ali reads riot act over CJIA project’ (SN 9/21) 4. ‘Police issue warning over wanton use of sirens’ (VV, 12/21) 5. ‘Mustapha reads riot act to delinquent contractors’ (KN, 11/21) Do you remember when you were a kid and you committed a negative act? Your mother would threaten the daylights out of you by stating, ‘wait till your father gets home’. So you started to shake with every clock-ticking minute. Well, some dads came home late (you were fast asleep) and other dads never came home, but mom’s strategy worked until the next
event (then her threats start all over again). Kudos to those strong moms who dealt nicely with the situation – then and there. This is the same strategy our government is applying while issuing a ton of warnings, ‘riot acts’ and threats. Make laws, policies, and/or agreements - implement and enforce them – simple!! Tip: start with the horses, donkeys, cows, sheep, goats, etc. on the streets. Cordially, Denise Murray
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Kaieteur News
In-service, Pre-service CPCE teachers in Essequibo are treated poorly DEAR EDITOR, Lecturers taking the ELearning system as a hide and seek profession and teachers facing the consequences. The Cyril Potter College of Education is a higher education institution in Georgetown, Guyana. The school’s main campus is in Turkeyen, with an additional training session in Anna Regina. “It provides a coordinated and integrated approach for formal teacher training education in Guyana; to effectively and efficiency train teacher who can function in Nursery, Primary, and Secondary school throughout Guyana and to provide opportunities for teacher educators to be engaged in independent or collaborative research and professional development activities, and capacity building for para professionals.” Hence forth, the preservice and in-service teachers still continue to suffer educationally with E-Learning and the indolence and a p athetic behaviours of lecturers attached to the Region #2, Essequibo Centre. We, as teachers, have to cope with these unacceptable behaviours of these lecturers, they fail to arrange online sessions or meeting with teachers who are there to be trained. They scarcely attend
classes even if they do arrange a meeting either by Google meeting, zoom or by using any other platform. And at the end of the term or semester, we have a final examination to write whether we were lectured to or not and also achieving a 50% pass grade. Isn’t this injustice to us teachers? Moreover, it appears to be that our teachers don’t have a say anymore, and we have to tolerate this behaviour of our dear lecturers, although our head office in Region 4 and center office in Region 2 Essequibo located in Cotton Field in the same compound with the Department of Education are cognizant of this behaviour. Our Inservice and Pre-service heads of the college sit down with their hands fold and ‘x-feet’ on this matter. These lecturers are being paid one of the highest salaries in the education profession and yet they fail to perform the way they should. Is this how our education system has t u r n e d o u t to? Why are these lecturers being paid that much? Approximately 60% of teachers attached to the Anna Regina Centre are suffering, official figures have confirmed what we all know, that the cost of living rises faster than it has for some time. And with information gathered from a survey con-
ducted on college teachers across Essequibo, 65% of teachers do not even have internet service installed in their homes, while those with internet service face a fluctuation in internet connection. With that, many teachers have no other choice but to always activate a monthly data plan, just to be part of online classes, which have been enforced since 2020 due to the pandemic. Many teachers made sacrifices and continues to do such, just to be part of the classes and lecture sessions. The Pre-service teachers are not being paid a salary while they still make it their priority to seek for small jobs to gain a stipend to activate data plan and buy materials for college which include assignment materials etc and also to support themselves. Unfortunately, while many will say E- Learning is more effective and sustainable, I strongly believe it is not at all times, especially in various areas or villages on the Essequibo Coast such as in the Pomeroon River and those hinterland areas where electricity and internet connection seem to be a major problem. And again, lecturers don’t value the time and sacrifices of teachers who are trying their best to be part of these
online classes. For a period of one month and counting, the linguistics lecturer attached to the Anna Regina In-service Centre has ceased from sending any work with no significant reason. First year In-service teachers (primary) have never, ever received any link for online classes in the above course and for the benefit of persons who do not know, linguistics is a very challenging course. Without the explanation or discussion from a lecturer, it will be very difficult for teachers to cope with the course. English Proficiency has been a treat to teachers also with similar problems, with the lecturer in charge of the Pre-service and In-service Primary. For a period of approximately 10 weeks, the English Proficiency Lecturer has only lectured or keep a Google meet session trice with a time frame of 5 hours out of 20 hours. With these numbers, it is clear that our lecturers are sleeping in bright day light. Yours truly, Aaliyah Rose
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
Motorcyclist killed after driver reportedly ignored his tooting horn - eyewitnesses recalled his final moments as he bled to death A motorcyclist on Monday evening never made it back home from an errand as he was killed in a road accident along the Railway Embankment in the vicinity of Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). He has been identified as Alex Amsterdam, 22, a security guard of Sparendaam Squatting Area, ECD. According to information received by this media house, he crashed around 23:45hrs into the right side of a Toyota Allion motorcar at the intersection of the Ogle Access Road and the Railway Embankment, commonly known as “Line Top”. Eyewitnesses, who witnessed the moment Amsterdam drew his last breath in a pool of blood, have alleged that his death was caused by the car’s driver who ignored Amsterdam’s tooting horn as he approached the intersection. Speaking with Kaieteur News at the scene, Amsterdam’s father, Dexter Amsterdam, said that moments before the tragedy happened, his son had returned home after completing a
double shift at his workplace and had gone out again to go on an errand. “He just come home from working a double and left to go out on the road again to do something, not long after somebody come and show me a video and seh watch Alex get knack down,” recounted the dead man’s father. It is assumed that Alex crashed while returning from that errand. One eyewitness who was a passenger in a minibus at the time of the accident recalled, “He (Amsterdam) was coming up from UG side blowing he horn (from the direction of Georgetown).” Other eyewitnesses who were also passengers in the bus said that their driver stopped at the intersection to let him pass but a car drove up beside them, stopped for a few seconds and then suddenly drove across the road. The next thing they heard was their driver saying, “y’all watch this” followed by a loud impact. “All ah we rush out to see wah happen and when we reach out, we see the motor-
Alex Amsterdam’s father, Dexter Amsterdam speaking with Kaieteur News on Monday evening. bike man lie down on his belly and bleeding away on the road,” an eyewitness recalled. The eyewitness noted that Amsterdam was bleeding
Shuman hails building of airport, stadium in Berbice DEAR EDITOR, Having seen the recent announcements of the International Airport and Stadium for Berbice, I can only describe it is nothing short of visionary and 22nd century thinking to address our country’s future needs. Currently, Berbicians represent the greatest population of Guyanese expats. In consideration of this fact, they are required to traverse across the entirety of the Berbice and Demerara corridors to get to the only International Airport with direct flights to the US and Canada. A journey that generally takes ‘Georgetowners’ an hour and half in moderate traffic and correct DHB times; however to get to that same destination, it takes someone from Skeldon sometimes over 5 hours to the Cheddi Jagan Airport. By establishing an International Airport in Berbice, it saves the travelling expat a significant headache and heartache with consideration to a variety of factors. Editor, one need not look hard for the kind of energies and development that follows infrastructure. The US would not have been the global economic superpower had it not been for infrastructure. Canada, Europe and even our Island neighbours are also
prime examples of the kinds of development that follow infrastructure investment. The airport will provide a critical nod not only for international travel, but also for domestic travel and servicing the soon to be developed deep water port. It will drive trade, commerce and further development while serving as a critical component to seeing a lot more Guyanese returning home. Where there may have been apprehension in the past with the long transit times from CJIA to Berbice for expats, they will be greeted with a step off the airplane onto their doorsteps thus bringing greater capital to invest in their local neighbourhoods. This will also serve to further fill hotel rooms and bring tourist dollars to the area that would otherwise struggle to compete with the ‘Georgetowners’. Traders and farmers will also have easy access to international transport thus decreasing the strain on the infrastructure in the capital with a domino effect of reducing traffic jams and costs to list a few. These are not things to be taken lightly especially in this competitive global environment. Coupled with a stadium in the East, it will drive the kind
of sports development that Guyana has been lacking for a long time. Travelling through th e neighbourhoods on the coast, one will notice a complete absence of premier sports facilities in the area. This project will now put Guyana in a better position to host wider international tournaments that can be spread across the country while inspiring our young athletes to be competitive at a higher caliber. Economies will generally develop in lockstep with their infrastructure. Having travelled to a few countries and seen what infrastructure has done for those economies, I commend the blistering and urgent pace with which the government is moving to address key infrastructural deficiencies in Guyana with an aggressive development agenda. It is a look into the future of the country and addressing those needs before they become growing pains. I support the establishment of an International Airport and Stadium in Berbice and commend the Government for being forward thinking. Respectfully, Hon. Lenox R. O. Shuman, MP Deputy Speaker
from a puncture wound to his throat and recalled that during his final moments, he appeared to be fighting to stay alive. “He throat went (Continued on page 28)
Dead motorcyclist, Alex Amsterdam
There must be strict adherence to town and country planning DEAR EDITOR, Guyana is on a rapid developmental trajectory and as such, we must avoid all the pitfalls that Third World Developing States are prone to make. I make specific reference to the way we utilize the land space available around us in a decent and well ordered fashion. That land mass that has been entrusted to us was meant to be fashioned and modelled in ways that befits a modern society, that is its roads, bridges highways, housing, shopping complexes, I am talking about the whole infrastructural landscape. If strict laws are not put into our planning then, we would be well into the setting up of a modern ghetto. So, it all hinges on the platform of setting up a proper town and country planning code. There must be strict adherence to mapped out areas for specific developmental works such as housing and settlements, into industrial zones as well as open spaces which is to be reserved for the relaxation of the citizens as well as open for the free passage of clean air. In summary, the primary objectives of town and country planning is to ensure sustainable eco-
nomic development and a better environment in which to live. The foregoing has serious implications for planning, especially in urban areas where there is a total disregard for open stretches of land. In Guyanese backward culture, open spaces - especially those near to roadways or major development projects - is an invitation to squat or to encumber for one’s own personal use. It is a bugbear that has taken our country by storm and something for which government must address. This problem must be stopped immediately. This lawlessness can be seen in many places across the country, specific mention is made of The East and West Coast and E a s t a n d We s t B a n k o f Demerara. In all of the communities mentioned, urban squatting has become an ever present problem. The train line embankment roadway, built to ease the traffic congestion in that area, has suddenly become a big problem in itself, with many persons building permanent structures on the road shoulders a n d p a r a p e t s . There are dwelling houses, bars, bet-
ting shops as well as houses of ill repute existing here. What is going on in our country? The British Developer Ebenezer Howard captured the true spirit of what modern society ought to be. He did this when he formul a t e d T h e N e w To w n , Green Belt Strategy and in this regard, Guyana can do well in the implementation of this system here. We h a v e t h e l a n d space, which is ideal for zoning, hence this must be implemented in order that we build for ourselves a modern developed country or, God forbid, build a massive ghetto. As Guyana moves into a modern future, there must be an aggressive, if not brutal plan, to get those persons and encumbrances off government reserves. With the commissioning of the new Eccles to Mandela Highway, government must look out for the squatters and roadside builders; persons who have no care for town and country development, who would otherwise cause a well structured society to deteriorate into an eyesore. This cannot be allowed to take place. Respectfully, Neil Adams
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Efforts ongoing to ensure minimum exposure of public to radioactive substances - EPA E v e n a s G u y a n a ’s proposed legislation for radiation safety and security is underway, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been working to ensure that the p u b l i c ’s e x p o s u r e t o radioactive substances is at a minimum.
This is according to Tashana Redmond, a Senior Officer attached to the Te c h n i c a l S e r v i c e s Department of the EPA. Speaking on a recently aired episode of the EPA’s “The Environment Matters”, Redmond addressed the public concerns about how
radiation and radioactive substances are used in Guyana. The EPA official noted that the “wave type energy source,” can be used in harmful and non-harmful ways. She noted that Guyana has limited radiation sources, which do not pose a
risk to people located 100 metres outside the source. “There are five categories of sources, ranging from category one to category five and in this case, category one is the strongest source. In the country now, we do not have any category one sources; a
Tashana Redmond, Technical Services Department Officer
nuclear power plant would be classified as a category one source,” she said. Redmond continued, “At present, there are category two to five sources in the country. However, category two is in limited quantities and this source does not pose a risk to persons outside of 100 metres from where the source is. The only way that becomes dangerous is if that source is exposed by means of an explosion or fire or something.” The environmental officer said that in the meantime, the EPA has been working with the various corporations and entities to ensure that the risk to public safety remains low. “You find them mostly in the medical field; in the dental shops… The EPA is playing the role of ensuring regulatory management of these sources. We ensure safety in terms of having adequate physical protection systems in place and security in terms of delaying any threats of the source.” She noted that besides
the medical sector, the construction, mining, beverage manufacturing and oil and gas sector also use radioactive substances. As such, Redmond said several companies have been applying for the use of radioactive substances in their respective fields of work. She noted that while many concerns have been raised surrounding the public’s safety, the EPA has its officers working to make certain that the public is not exposed or harmed by any radioactive substance. “Companies applying for the use of radioactive substances must follow requirements before being given authorisation to use such materials. We ensure that adequate systems are put in place that the sources are handled properly: proper storage, proper training for those who handle them, proper security, so they are not stolen and end up in the wrong hands,” she said. Redmond noted that the Continued on page 24
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
Beware of this stratum! The middle class in Guyana is deadlier than the bourgeoisie class. The latter is interested in making money as much as possible but sections of the middle class feels that it has an entitlement to political power. This is not to deny that there is not a progressive section within the middle class. But there are also reactionary and extremists elements that are seized of a vicious agenda. This middle class in Guyana cannot be defined simply in terms of economic status. In Guyana, what emerged under Burnham was bureaucratic/technocratic class the professions, public administrators, and some members of academia. Jagan referred to this section as the bureaucratic/ technocratic stratum. Together with the propertied middle class, they constituted the petit bourgeoisie. During the independence struggles, the petit bourgeoisie assumed political leadership. But they were far from a revolutionary force. Examining the situation in post-colonial Africa, Walter Rodney described the petit bourgeoisie as reformers rather than revolutionaries. In an article titled, “Aspects of the International Class Struggle in Africa, the Caribbean and America”, Rodney accused the petit bourgeoi-
sie of Africa of reneging on the cardinal principle of PanAfricanism, namely the unity and indivisibility of Africa, during their negotiations with the colonial masters. He further accused them of lacking the capacity to demand both freedom and unity. While Rodney recognised that the petit bourgeoisie was the source of leadership, he also was suspect of it. He acknowledged that it was the petit bourgeoisie which provided the leadership for Independence but apportioned blame to this class for their role in the post-colonial stagnation and fragmentation of Africa. Ironically, Rodney surrounded himself with petty bourgeois elements. He is believed to have been betrayed by this class. Rodney was also critical of the petit bourgeoisie in the Caribbean. Among his criticisms was that they stifled Pan Africanism and the deeper insertion of the trade union movement in the working class. According to Alex Dupuy (Race and Class in the Postcolonial Caribbean, 1996), Rodney had arrived at the conclusion that the postcolonial Caribbean petit bourgeoisie had become a new ruling class with its own interests which was opposed to those of the working classes. This was certainly true under Burnham.
Burnhams PNC was originally comprised of a breakaway faction of the PPP and the petit bourgeoisie United Democratic Party. The PNC aligned with the extreme right-win United Force to oust the PPP from office following the 1964 elections. Jagan had always argued that following imperialism had established a client bourgeois state in Guyana. The petit bourgeois comprising middle class elements no longer have an ideological agenda. Their agenda is deadlier. It is anti-PPP and there are elements parading within the class who are keen on pushing an ethnic agenda. The working class unfortunately have relied upon this petit bourgeois class for leadership. The trade union movement, for example, has long been seized by elements of the petit bourgeois class. And the working class has been betrayed by this class. The PPP had established strong roots among the working class. It was considered the foremost champion of the working class. But when the PPP/C assumed office in 1992, many of its leaders behaved more like petit bourgeoisie than working class cadres. They wined and dined with the bourgeoisie and became entrapped in corruption. The working class saw who the PPP/C leaders associated with and whose inter-
Dem Boys Seh…
De morning after de fete Guyanese prapa exhale over de weekend. After two years of restrictions and limit in wah dem could do, de Guyanese people break-free over de Easter weekend. Dem go out and had a good time. Some wear mask but de majority decide dat is time fuh free up. Dem did determine fuh enjoy demselves and dem did. One man bin having such a good time dat he fuhget de tide does turn. He went pon de beach at No. 63 and when de tide turn, he fuhget fuh
turn around he vehicle and head fuh dry land. One man went and had a ball over de weekend. He was like pot salt. He deh in all dem events; from de concerts to de kite flying. When he see a sport, he stop and gone in. He had a good time. He pocket did heavy when he start but by de time he finish, it light. He party all Monday night and when daybreak come, he bruk. He money run out. He leff with a bitter bottle in he hand. He nah even had
a bus fare fuh ketch house. Suh he start fuh walk home and whenever he see people, he stop and begging dem fuh a passage. Nuff people had a good time. Dem spend out dem money. Dem buy up drinks and food and all kind ah clothes fuh guh out with. And now dem wondering how dem gan manage fuh de rest ah de month. Dem boys hope dem pay dem water bill, because GWI start cutting off people water. Talk half. Leff half.
ests they represented. The sugar industry today is in the mess it is in partly because the PPP abandoned sugar workers. At one stage, the PPP/C even threatened to derecognise the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU), a union which is perceived as a surrogate of the PPP. The working class should no longer look towards the PPP/C for leadership. The PPP/C is now aligned to the bourgeoisie class and has been co-opted by a rich and powerful oligarchic class. The mistakes made by the APNU+AFC resulted in its failure to weaken the oligarchic class. But that had to
do with the fact that the AFC had connections to this class and would have derailed any attempt by the PNC/R to crush the powerful oligarchic class which is tied to the PPP. That class pumped a great deal of resources into the PPP/Cs election campaign and is now bound to reap the dividends from that investment. But the oligarchic class interests are primarily economic in nature. It is not confrontation with the local petit bourgeoisie. In fact, on many economic issues they have shared interests. On the other hand, the middle class has a stratum with pathological political
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ambitions. In fact, that stratum represents a danger to working class unity. The working class must stay clear of this stratum. That stratum is only interested in using the working class for its sinister aims. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
INSIDE THE DIASPORA
I had email exchanges with several diaspora Guyanese who told me that they are disappointed with other columns with raison d’être is to highlight topics that are of interest to them who live in the diapora but they never see any reviews and reflections of these crucial, evolving developments. One correspondent wrote this to me about the raison d’être; “Freddie, how can these people avoid bringing to us things like the confusion about the noconfidence vote, the election rigging and the uproar in parliament…” I replied to that particular sender saying that he has lived too long outside to see that the world that existed in Guyana in the 70s, 80s and 90s are long gone and if he comes back to Guyana, he would see the psychology of people whose shape is
simply unimaginable, in terms of its contortion, hypocrisy and depravity. Another sender informed me that she is 65 years of age and missed the integrity and fairness in journalism that Father Morrison brought to Guyana. I was laughing when I read her email. She said when she goes online to read Kaieteur News, she sees the same hairstyle I have when I was a young columnist writing for Father in the Catholic Standard decades ago. She said she is willing to donate a large sum to have a bust of Father erected next to the Brickdam cathedral. I suggested that was an issue to be raised with the Catholic Church. My second point to her was that Guyana has changed completely from the era of Father Andrew Morrison who remains one of my heroes. One gentleman is
perplexed at the selected issues that are brought to the diaspora and candidly told me that the things that interest Guyanese in the diaspora are not published in those pieces that are meant for the diaspora. My reply to that was simple. I explained that G u y a n a ’s p o l i t i c a l antagonisms and ethnic divisions are so deep and wide that there are no independent minds left in this place. I went on to pontificate on the frightening dimension of this reality that truly lacerates my psyche. The very people inside and outside of Guyana that write about our political calamities and ethnic troubles from the skies looking down on Guyana wearing so-called independent eye glasses and neutral minds are worse in their immoralities and
prejudices than the politicians they criticise. I went on to add that the danger with these hypocrites is that Guyanese in the diaspora and those who live here know where they stand with their politicians and have made up their minds about how they feel about their politicians but they must always be on their guard with these so-called independent minds and socalled independent organisations. I got an interesting email from a former policeman who told me he works as a security detail at a large private company. He wrote that his sister is a security rank at a private guard service and she and her colleagues are enduring frequent horror experiences at most of the private companies in Guyana. Nightmares range from: no payment to the NIS through deductions, arbitrary deductions for no apparent reasons and no compensation for long extra hours. He wants to know what certain organisations would
write on about a vulgar comment made against a f e m a l e parliamentarian by another parliamentarian but they don’t pick up their pens in defence of Frederick Kissoon helpless women guards. I indicated here the way I wrote to him that he is living in another not the way Mr. Ramkarran world. This is not the wrote his piece). Guyana he knew when he There was this sender lived here. who appreciated a recent I suggested he reads what column advocating term I described for him as one of limits for organisations in the most pleasing, general. He wants to know informative and analytical why it is not a hot topic in the commentaries in recent press because for him it is years written by opposition commonsensical. I simply politician, Ralph replied saying, I too find it Ramkarran. commonsensical but do not I informed him that the know why no one is answer he is looking for me interested in keeping the to give him is beautifully put topic alive. I did say to him by Mr. Ramkarran in his that I guess people just love Stabroek News column of power so they want to be at March 6. Mr. Ramkarran the helm of their posits that there are issues organisation forever. that bring sex appeal thus organisations seek to pursue (The views expressed in these subjects rather than the this article are those of the topics for which will not give author and do not them the limelight they are necessarily reflect the looking for (I am putting it opinions of this newspaper.)
Wednesday April 20, 2022
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Environmentalist urges Govt. to pursue solar power generation In the absence of a feasibility study for the highly touted Gas-to-Energy project and the climbing costs to supply reliable energy to Guyana, environmentalist Alfred Bhulai is urging government to channel its investments into solar power generation. In a letter to Kaieteur News, Bhulai said, “The hidden costs of the gas-to-power projects are slowly bubbling up: GPL has to find 50 MW of heavy fuel oil generation; and they are looking for some other company to deliver seamless connections without transmission and distribution problems.” According to him, GPL is caught in an “inefficiency trap”, as it still only aims to deliver electricity at 80 percent power factor, and consumers are allowed to operate at “unbelievably lower power factors”. In addition, he said he also noticed that the many transformers required in this system seem to
have no maintenance. According to him, checks for moisture and oxidation are not done until a transformer blows out to indicate replacement. “There seems to be a normal state of emergency in running things. The gas-to-power project panders to these inefficiencies and lets GPL off the hook. One day the gas will be finished; what then? The immediate answer is to invest instead in solar power beginning with the new housing areas being built,” the environmentalist urged. Bhulai suggested that 10,000 new homes can be powered by 50 MW of solar energy. He said, “Let people manage their own electric power. 10,000 new homes can be comfortably powered with 50 MW, for which there will be no technical and ‘commercial’ losses. Get rid of the old power line mentality, the inefficiencies and instabilities of which
subject us to unreliable electricity.” On Sunday, GPL published an Expression of Interest (EOI) where it said it is hunting for Independent Power Producers (IPPs) that can supply 50 MW of power to the national grid for three years, commencing from March 2023. GPL said, “the state-owned electric utility company, invites technically and financially sound IPPs to submit an EOI to supply a total of 50 MW HFO-fired Firm Power Generating Capacity (gross) on a 24-hour basis with appropriate substations to interconnect with the 69 kV National Grid (the project) by March 2023 for a period of three years.” The power company said that the 50 MW of power will interconnect with the 69kV (kilovolts) national grid and shall be split into two lots of 25 MW per installation. The earmarked 69 kV substations for interconnection are New Sophia and
Canefield. Although the EOI was published, the company was keen to note that the advertisement does not constitute an invitation to tender. It added that only power companies deemed qualified by GPL will receive details, guiding the next steps of the process. Back in January 2020, GPL inked a power purchase agreement with businessman, Roy Beepat, to supply the national grid with 4.5 MW of electricity. The added power augmented the 120 MW that GPL was supplying to the power grid. The proprietor of Giftland Mall had stated that his power generating system has the capacity to share some 4.5 MW with the GPL, depending on the time of day. He explained that while Giftland has 6.7MW of power, only 1.6MW is used during optimal operations. It was later revealed that an estimated $34 Continued on page 23
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Fibre Tech is first Guyanese company certified to use GNBS’ certification mark Fibre Tech Industrial Plastics (FTIP) located at Agriculture Road, Triumph Village, East Coast Demerara, on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, became the first Guyanese company to achieve certification under the Guyana National Bureau of Standards’ (GNBS) Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme. According to a GNBS release, this company is now authorised by the GNBS to affix the Made in Guyana Certification Mark to several of its fibreglass products including its shower units, kitchen units, bathroom units, outdoor furniture and play equipment. At the Certification ceremony held at FTIP’s location, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond, in her feature address, congratulated the management and staff of Fibre Tech
Industrial Plastics for achieving certification to the Made in Guyana Mark. She also encouraged private sector companies like FTIP to buy into the Government of Guyana plan and to aspire for standards. Meanwhile, Executive Director (ag) of the GNBS, Ms. Ramrattie Karan, in her remarks highlighted that the Bureau has worked with several stakeholders to formalise the mark which will boost Guyana’s local content. Ms. Karan noted that by using the mark, manufacturers will be able to promote brand recognition and increase competitiveness for their products certified under the Programme. Managing Director of FTIP, Mr. Somat Ali thanked the GNBS for giving his Continued on page 14
Minister Walrond presents the Certificate to Mr. Somat Ali, Managing Director of FTIP.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Fibre Tech is first Guyanese company... From page 13 company the opportunity to demonstrate quality and he encouraged other manufacturers to apply to be a part of the programme. Mr. Ali added that using standards is the direction for local companies to go to ensure their competitiveness and to demonstrate that Guyanese can make good quality products. In addition, First Vice President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Mr. Ramsay Ali, in his brief remarks also congratulated FTIP for being the first to be certified under the Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme. Mr. Ali stated that “the Mark is a good thing, and it is good to have local products carry the seal ‘Made in Guyana’.” He added that the GMSA will encourage its members to apply for the Mark and have their products certified. The Made in Guyana Certification Mark is a prestigious Mark, which was unveiled by First
Lady H.E. Arya Ali at the GNBS’ National Quality Awards Ceremony in October 2021. It is a registered mark that aims to provide recognition to locally manufactured products on the local and international markets and is a signature of quality for authentic Guyanese Products. Among the requirements to become certified, manufacturers are required to use at least 60 percent raw materials from Guyana and to employ 70 percent Guyanese staff. The Made in Guyana Certification is valid for one year and will be monitored through surveillance visits by the GNBS to ensure the approved quality is maintained. Applications are open for local manufacturers interested in getting their products certified. To kick start the process, persons can contact the Certification Services Department on 219-0064-66 or email certification@gnbsgy.org.
Mr. Somat Ali, Managing Director signs Terms and Conditions for Made in Guyana Certification.
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Confirm Chancellor and Chief Justice - Article 13 urges After decades of no confirmed Chief Justice and Chancellor of the Judiciary, Article 13, a civil society body, has called on the Government of Guyana and Opposition to finally appoint those who have been acting in the respective capacities. In a statement to the media on Monday, the group, including Attorneyat-Law, Christopher Ram and transparency advocate, Yog Mahadeo, pointed out that the former acting Chancellor of the Judiciary and Justice of the Court of Appeal, Carl Singh, retired in 2017 after serving 12 years. Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards has been acting since then. Similarly, Justice Ian Chung served as acting Chief Justice, from 2010 to 2016 and was never
Acting Chief Justice, Roxane George-Wiltshire
Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards
confirmed. Following his retirement, Justice Roxane G e o rg e - Wi l t s h i r e w a s appointed to serve as acting Chief Justice. In this regard, Article 13 said, “We consider it manifestly unfair not to confirm the incumbents who
have acted in their positions for several years. If the President is not so inclined, he must say so and offer reasons. Once the President begins the process, the onus shifts to the LOP (Leader of the Opposition) to respond.” According to the
Constitution, there must be an agreement between the President and Leader of the Opposition on the appointments. Under the 1966 Independence Constitution, it was the Governor General who had the power to appoint the Chancellor and the Chief Justice “on the recommendation of the Prime Minister after consultation with the Leader
of the Opposition.” However, the 1980 Constitution abolished the office of Governor General and transferred its appointing powers to the Executive President, after consultation with the minority leader, the group explained. In addition, there was a later amendment, which was made as part of the Constitutional Reform
process under the Herdmanston Accord that required an “agreement” between the President and the Leader of the Opposition. Since Article 127 A of the Constitution vests in the President the power and the duty to appoint a Chancellor and a Chief Justice, after obtaining the agreement of the Leader of the Continued on page 16
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Confirm Chancellor and Chief Justice - Article 13 urges From page 15 Opposition, the civil society body argued that if the amendment was intended to advance the process, it has had the
opposite effect with no appointment since the change. According to Article 13 it, “notes with dismay that s u c c e s s i v e
Administrations, Presidents and Leaders of the Opposition have been unable to agree on these appointments, unmindful and unresponsive to calls to
address this egregious state of affairs. In our view, this failure shows a disregard for the Constitution and the rule of law and puts the judicial system of the country in a negative light. To blame the system or to call for its change is like advocating changing the system of free and fair elections because one political party does not want to play by the rules of democracy!” The group went on to say that the President as well as the Opposition Leader both took an Oath to uphold the Constitution in its entirety, not partially. To this end, they said that President Irfaan Ali must initiate the appointment or confirmation process, then the onus shifts to the Leader
of the Opposition to respond. “The reforms necessary can then follow these appointments. Such reforms are not only necessary because of the political games which are a standard fare in our political culture but importantly, because of the imperative to remove the association of the appointments of the top judicial officers from the political arena. Our success as a country will depend on good governance, adherence to the rule of law and the strengthening of our political culture,” the civil society body reasoned. Furthermore, they said that it will also require addressing equally pressing matters such as the “woefully inadequate” number of
judges in the High Court and the Court of Appeal. Article 13 was keen to note that this demands attention as the recent batch of judges appointed under the Coalition have performed commendably and fears that the pool is empty, may not be accurate. According to the body, “Regrettably, it is going to be much easier to draw from the AG’s Chambers, the Office of the DPP, the magistracy and attorneys in the public sector to make up the complement of judges our country so badly needs, than it is to ask private practitioners to give up their lucrative practice, even temporarily. With proper training, individuals chosen from the groups mentioned will rise to the occasion.”
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2022
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Gold miner remanded for murder of co-worker By Allyiah Allicock The gold miner, who was arrested for the alleged killing of his co-worker, Roy Harry, at Reserve Baramita, Region One, was on Thursday charged and remanded to prison for the offence. Making his first court appearance was Romel Pritchard of Barimanobo Village, Mabaruma, Region One, who appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrate Court via Zoom, where the charge was read to him. Pritchard was not required to plead to the charge which states that on April 13, last at Reserve Baramita, North West District, he murdered 29year-old Harry, a father of
Dead, Roy Harry two, of Wauna, Mabaruma. The Chief Magistrate, after remanding Pritchard to prison, adjourned the matter to May 3, 2022. It was reported that on the day of the incident, the two men were imbibing alcohol when things turned deadly following an
argument over a woman. Police in Region One had reported that around 05:50hrs that day, they received a phone call about a stabbing incident that occurred at Reserve Baramita, between 03:00hrs and 04:00hrs that same morning, in which the victim was seriously injured by the suspect, who is his coworker. According to police reports, information received revealed that Harry and the suspect worked at the same mining camp. They were reportedly imbibing at New Star Backdam in Reserve, Baramita when a misunderstanding over a female acquaintance ensued. Following the misunderstanding, reports are that the two left together for their mining camp and
thereafter got into another argument, which resulted in the suspect allegedly assaulting the victim and stabbing him with a knife. Police reported that earlier that morning,
sometime around 04:00 hours, the suspect related the situation to another coworker, Michael Green, a 48-year-old mechanic of No. 53 Village, Corentyne, Berbice. After relating the
incident to Green, the suspect then left the camp claiming that he was going to the police station to report the matter. After hearing of the Continued on page 18
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Gold miner remanded for murder of... From page 17 incident, Green immediately rushed over to the camp and made checks for Harry where he observed him lying motionless on the ground with what appeared to be a
stab wound to his chest. Green then reported the matter to the police via telephone. Ranks of the Baramita Police Station were immediately deployed to the
location to conduct an investigation. At around 08:00 hrs, the suspect was seen walking along a trail at Reserve, Baramita which was not leading to the direction of the
police station. Pritchard was subsequently arrested and taken into custody. A close relative of the deceased had told this publication that Harry, who
has been in the backdam for some time, had planned on going home for Easter. The relative stated that his cousin was going home to finish off the final set of works on his home. Harry,
who was described as a very funny and jovial person, was the breadwinner for his family. He leaves to mourn his two daughters, wife and other relatives.
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Guyana will need more than updated laws, proper oversight for oil to – Expert be springboard for development
While it is commendable that Guyanese authorities are making strides in updating their laws, improving planning systems and strengthening oversight, these mechanisms are not enough to make oil an automatic springboard for development. This is according to Dr. Zainab Usman, a Senior Fellow and Director of the Africa Programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, D.C. In her recent analysis that examines principles for an oil-led development strategy in the 21st century, the expert warned that there are numerous variables Guyana must juggle to be successful with its hydrocarbon bounty. Dr. Usman was keen to note that Guyana must, among other things, put systems in place to maximise earnings, manage
revenues transparently and create buffers against the volatility of global oil prices. She said this will entail legislation, policies and regulations being implemented across the oil and gas value chain. Dr. Usman said too that it is critical for Guyana to accelerate efforts on capacity building to monitor oil and gas operations, hire the requisite technical personnel, promote governance and transparency, and undertake financial and economic planning. The Senior Fellow noted, however, that these commendable strides are “insufficient to position the O/G (oil and gas) sector as a springboard for national development; to achieving economic diversification, structural transformation and high-levels of human Continued on page 28
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Rice harvesting stalled in Region 6 due to deplorable dams Region 6 has already harvested 60 percent of its rice for this year.
By Malisa Playter-Harry At a recent statutory meeting, Regional Chairman David Armogan revealed that, thus far, 60 percent of the 63,000 acres of rice planted in Region Six have
been harvested and efforts are being made to repair some deplorable dams to harvest the remaining 40 percent. Rice farmers began planting in around November-December of last
year with harvesting commencing in March. Prior to that, harvesting for the previous crop was done in October-November of last year but would have commenced earlier if it was not for the heavy flooding
- Regional Chairman
experienced mid last year. Additionally, Armogan mentioned that the Ministry of Agriculture has provided $39M to execute works on the dams within the rice cultivating areas such as in Black Bush Polder that are in
a deplorable condition, with additional funding being sought, from the region to commence further works. The request for additional funds, he said, was as a result of the recent rainy period (just over two weeks ago) that caused the dams to be in “very bad state.” Deplorable dams have been an issue for farmers since it is difficult for them to access their farms lands as they would need to. This, he said, is expected to be done soon so that the remaining 40 percent can be harvested from the field “because with the conditions of the dams, it is becoming very difficult for these farmers to operate.” As it relates to the yield per acre, Armogan pointed out that it is greater this time around with 41 bags per acre as compared to 30 odd bags in the previous crops. With the noted decrease in price, he said that if productivity improves, it ultimately means that, “you might be able to pick up the short falls in funds with a better yield. If the productivity is high, it means therefore, that you will be able to compensate them a little bit, but might not be full compensation...” According to Armogan, the reduction in price is a global phenomenon and is not only confined to Guyana resulting in rice millers reducing the price paid for paddy from the farmers. Internationally, he said, “there is somewhat of a brunt in the world market for grains. As a result of that, the prices have gone down a little bit because Vietnam, etc., have gone back into high levels of production, so the world market price has dropped a little bit. It is likely to go back up again soon...the prices all over have started to rise again so hopefully the price of rice and paddy will go up again shortly”, he reasoned. J u s t r e c e n t l y, r i c e farmers protested a decision by rice millers to reduce the price of paddy per tonne, a change, they insist, is “unacceptable” at this time, given the high cost of production for the paddy. The rice farmers, to register their displeasure, converged at Lesbeholden, Johanna and Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder with their placards and used their vehicles and agriculture machinery to block the road thus preventing the free flow of traffic for hours. The price of paddy paid by millers per tonnage was
Region 6 Regional Chairman, David Armogan dropped from $70,000 to $65,000 but rice farmers are saying that the cost of production for paddy is extremely high and, as such, a compromise cannot be met at this time to accept $65,000. However, the price was further dropped to $60,000 and the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha had intervened by engaging rice millers to increase the price and promised that his ministry would implement several measures which included the reduction of the export commission for millers from US$8 to US$6. Added to that, the scanning fee was also slashed by 50 percent. Meanwhile, Armogan said he has noted comments made by persons on local television programmes about the drying of paddy on the roadways but he has lamented that because of the adverse weather conditions that were experienced as of recent, “sometimes, we have to be able to flex with the law, sometimes it might not be convenient for these farmers to go anywhere else but to utilise the little dry weather to dry the paddy on the roadside. Sometimes, we must have some level of tolerance because remember this is an agricultural region and many people will say it is unlawful. I agree but in circumstances, we have to flex,” he said. Some $20M has been budgeted for the procurement of a seed drying facility in Black Bush Polder and over 600 rice farmers are expected to benefit once it is utilised. In this year’s budget, the rice industry was projected to grow by 25.1 percent and the earnings of rice is expected to be US$288.6M this year. According to the Regional Chairman, there was a paddy bug infestation on the East Bank Berbice but that infestation did not affect the rice crop in a significant Continued on page 29
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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3 lucky winners get 300K in groceries in GTT’s Easter Sweepstakes
GTT in collaboration with Bounty Supermarket during the Easter season afforded three finalists in its Easter promotion, the opportunity to win a supermarket sweep. Moreover, Marianne Henry and her family were positioned for a thrilling Easter season and beyond, after winning $150,000 in groceries and household items during GTT’s ‘Egg-citing’ Easter Sweepstakes held on Thursday last. According to Marianne’s daughter, Jada Fernandez, who represented her at the sweepstake, receiving the call from GTT was an unimaginable surprise that has made a difference in their lives. Jada was allotted 60 seconds to dash through the aisles at Bounty’s Supermarket, stocking up her trolley with 150,000 worth of groceries. During her sweepstake, she raked in lots of milk, oils, household supplies and other food items. Among the lucky winners were Surojnee Sookdeo and Dionne Cush Barnwell who copped $100,000 and $50,000 respectively in the night’s winnings. The lucky winners were randomly selected electronically from the list of qualifiers and spectators alike were thrilled and enthusiastic about GTT’s supermarket sweep promotion. GTT’s Public Relations Manager, Jasmin Harris commented, “The ‘egg-citing’ Easter Supermarket Sweepstakes formed part of GTT’s ongoing effort to support and strengthen the community by giving back to our valued customers. During the Easter Season, GTT also held an ongoing scavenger hunt that allowed customers to win exciting prizes.” She continued by congratulating all three winners and customers who participated in the promotion.
From left: GTT Mobile Marketing Manager, Diangelly Singh; Marianne Henry’s daughter, Jada Fernandez; 2nd place winner, Surojnee Sookdeo; Bounty Supermarket Store Manager, Sherwyn Clarke, and 3rd place winner, Dionne Cush Barnwell.
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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3 MONTHS AFTER DISASTROUS SPILL…
Peru fishermen can now access emergency fund Three months after approximately 12,000 barrels of crude was spilled into Peruvian waters – the affected people, mainly fishermen, can now access the emergency fund the government organised for them to receive advance compensation from the culpable oil company. T h e a d v a n c e compensation to the fishermen and others affected by the spill came about as a result of negotiations done by the Government of Peru which is working towards getting the Spanish oil giant, Repsol, to assume the economic impact of the spill. It was reported that due to the fact that a legal process for compensation to the affected families would take a long time, the Government of Peru got the oil giant to sign an advance compensation agreement.
Scenes from Peru’s oil spill.
In order to provide adequate aid for the citizens, the Peruvian government recently ordered the oil giant, to pay an additional s u m o f U S $ 7 0 0 compensation to each citizen affected by the spill.
On April 17, last Peru’s Ministry of Environment (MINAM) announced, via a Facebook post, that the advance compensation is now available for affected citizens. Kaieteur News had
reported that the crude was spilled from one of the La Pampilla refineries, which is owned by Repsol, off the coast of Ventanilla in the region of Lima, Peru. The spill was reportedly caused by shock waves from an undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean. At the time of the undersea eruption, Suezmax tanker, Mare Doricum, was offloading a shipment of Brazilian crude oil at one of La Pampilla refinery’s offshore mooring buoys, and as such, a quantity of the cargo was released. Following, the
devastating oil spill, several Peruvian officials had called for the oil company to offer compensation for the disaster. The first action taken against the company was by Peruvian judge, Romualdo Aguedo, on Friday, January 28, 2022, who granted an order to prevent four Repsol’s executives from l e a v i n g t h e c o u n t r y. Peruvian media reported that Judge Aguedo imposed an 18-month ban on the grounds of the potential risk that the officials might leave Peru. Among them were: refinery manager, Jaime Fernández-Cuesta Luca de
Tena; terminal manager, Renzo Alejandro Tejada Mackenzie; environmental manager, Gisela Cecilia Posadas Jhong and production manager, José Gregorio Reyes Ruiz. In taking additional steps, Peru’s former Minister of the Environment, Rubén R a m i r e z o n M o n d a y, January 31, 2022, revealed that the government had taken the decision to suspend the company’s hydrocarbon loading and unloading activities. In other words, Repsol’s operation in the country was halted until it can substantially prove that Continued on page 29
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
Environmentalist urges Govt. to pursue... From page 12 million each month was being forked out to purchase the badly needed power from the Giftland Mall, to compensate for the shortfall of electricity. Beepat said that the power itself would cost around $9.9 million per month while fuel cost is estimated to be
$29.5 million. SOLAR ENERGY POTENTIAL In February, during the International Energy Conference and Expo, Head of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Dr. Mahender Sharma indicated that Guyana currently receives enough sunshine every
two hours, to power the country’s present electricity demands for an entire year. He also revealed that the country last year imported some 20,300 barrels of oil daily spending about US$150M to meet electricity generation demands. Importantly, Dr. Sharma explained that the power supplied by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Incorporated, through the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) only caters for about 78 percent of the citizenry.
PAGE 23 On the other hand, the GEA Head indicated, “we (Guyana) get quite a bit of energy from the sun, every two hours, we get about 430 quintillion joules.” As such, he concluded that in “one hour and 20 minutes, we receive the same amount of energy that we consume for an entire year, only from the sun.” With this in mind, he told the delegates at the conference, “the potential for solar is huge.”
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
5 companies bid to fabricate 250 deck plates for DHBC
W
ith its $946 m i l l i o n budgetary allocation this year, the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) is planning to spend some $104.9 million towards the fabrication and delivery of 250 10-foot deck plates. The project was revealed on Tuesday during the opening of tenders at the
National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office. The companies which submitted bids for the DHBC project are Welfab Welding and Fabrication Services, Compass Industrial Services, EC Vieira Investments Limited, S. Jagmohan Construction and General Supply Inc., and Industrial Fabrication
Inc. As reported on, General Manager of the bridge, Wayne Watson had stated that the $946 million has been budgeted to rehabilitate and maintain the aged floating bridge. During an interview with the Department of Public Information last month, Watson said, “One of those works is the anchorage
system. So, in 2022, we would have received some funding to do some anchorage work. Also, we have pontoons that need rehabilitation, funding was approved for that. Ten feet deck plates which is basically the platform which the vehicles use to traverse on the bridge, funding was also approved for that and the transom
Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) Fabrication and delivery of 250 10-foot deck plates to DHBC
beams. These are the beams that deck plates are seated on, we got approval for 30 such beams.” He explained also that with the funding the Corporation received, it is estimated that $75 million would go towards the construction of the motorised platform, $411 million to rehabilitate the pontoons, $100 million is set
aside for the fabrication of deck plates, $60 million for the fabrication of H-beams and $300 million for anchor chains and blocks. Just recently, bids were o p e n e d f o r t h e rehabilitation of 28 pontoons for the bridge, which is estimated to cost some $322 million. Below are the companies and their bids:
National Data Management Authority Procurement of server and hard drives.
Bureau of Statistics Supply and delivery of motor vehicles, Lot 1: one 4x4 new sports utility vehicle, Lot 2: one new minibus, Lot 3: one new 4x4 double cab pickup. Hinterland Electrification Company Inc. Supply of line hardware for two hinterland utilities. Guyana Energy Agency Supply and delivery of two new 4x4 motor vehicle
Small Business Bureau Supply, delivery, installation, training and after service of equipment for Lethem Business Incubator, Region Nine.
Efforts ongoing to... Guyana Elections Commission Procurement of good, Lot1: office furniture and Lot2: office equipment.
Ministry of Human Services and Social Security Supply and delivery of wheelchair buses
Ministry of Health Supply, delivery and installation of medical equipment for all programmes. National Communication Network Inc. Procurement of computer workstation.
From page 8 application process and requirements can be found on the agency’s website. “ I t ’s t i t l e d , ‘ A n Application for Radioactive Sources’, and within it, it deals with nuclear safety as well as radiation protection…A critical (requirement) is that they have to share with us their inventory of sources, so we did the initial inventory in 2017, and we continue to build on that inventory.” “The inventory allows (us) to know where the sources are, who are the responsible persons for the sources, the activity level of the sources, and as result of that, we can categorise them,” she said. At present, the officer
said, the EPA does have the necessary equipment, such as the radiation backpack, among other things, to routinely monitor radiation levels, to ensure companies that are authorised do not exceed the required limit. Redmond said that apart from monitoring, companies that are authorised to use radioactive substances are also required to notify the E PA w h e n t h e y a r e transporting such substances. “The agency is notified of any movement in sources from one location to the other. Our recent detection exercises have confirmed that the radiation…is not above the allowable limit,” Redmond related.
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Kaieteur News
Motorcyclist killed after driver reportedly...
VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable. Contact:649-0956. 1-Model M Truck,TM Truck, 428 Caterpillar Backhoe,416 Caterpillar Back hoe,Front end loader, Cement mixer truck,Mini Excavator.6500402/652-0251. Nissan X trail in immaculate condition,model 204.Price $2.8M negotiable. Contact: 641-1303.
FOR RENT 2 bedroom located 515 Peter's Hall E.B.D. Contact:660-4330 betwenn 8am-5pm. One,Two,Three bedroom apartment furnish & un furnish in Providence, Diamond, New Road, Vreed-en-hoop. 604-6664, 682-6238,216-2299. Linden.2 bedrooms, upper flat at one mile Public road. Tel:675-7667.
WANTED SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040. Specialized repairs/service refrigerator, washing machine, pressure pump, stove, treadmill,dryer, filteration system, deep fryer.Call:6949733. Mo's Bobcat Rental & Towing Service.Now hiring Bobcat Drivers. Call:643-8727/ whatsapp 685-9744. Installation, Repairs and parts for AC,Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc.Call Nick#656-0110/630-1600.
Servers needed at Emmanuel's Delight. Located at Diamond,tel:651-6342. One male able bodied clerk: 225-2313/226-1497. Taxi Dispatcher.Experience only,salary $28,000 wkly. Contact GR Taxi Ganesh on 614-6202. 1 male to work on Chicken Farm in the interior.Must have knowledge about poultry farming.Contact:680-2702. General worker, Handyboy, Receptionist & workers to work at Hotel.Contact:6933946. Waitress needed,$20,000 weekly.Contact:610-3974.
Relaxing massage service. Tel:674-8147.
Female to take care of an elderly male between the ages of 25 to 40. Accommodations provided.Call or WhatsApp 1-868-683-1528.
We repair all brands laptop & desktop computer.Tel:6962843.
Bar girls,Male Porter & Female cook for Interior. Contact:687-7638/660-9093. Dried carilla bush,soursop leaves,lemongrass,mango leaves (anyquantity). Call: 609-8281/693-3003.
FOR SALE Mature Palms & Trees.Get a head start now,so you can enojy later.Call:612-1848/6481821. 6-4 & 5 bedroom house at Schoonord,1-3 story building at Zeelugt,1-3 bedroom at Blankenburg.Contact:6500402/652-0251. Prime business spot(1/2 acre land) @Parika, house lots at Blanken burg,double lot at Tushen. Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251. Household:Bedspread sets; Travel urinal;Center table; Mattress; Printer; Desk; Fax;Dining Table. Call:6553070/662-2652.
One Housekeeper.Must be able to cook,45-60 yrs old. Must be living E.B.D. One handyman/store help, 6954785/265-3541. General domestic covid 19 vaccinated for Tuesday & Saturday between Enmore to Unity E.C.D.Serious enquiries only.Tel:259-0953/6233231. One handyman and one cleaner to work at Hotel in the interior.Contact:6802702.
From page 6 puncture and he was bleeding but he was still breathing. He look up at everybody surrounding him and crawl to pull himself up by grabbing the handle of his motorbike but he ain’t make it, he lef’ right there and bleed out,” detailed the eyewitness. Multiple eyewitnesses claimed that in a bid to save his life, they pleaded with the driver of the car to rush him to the hospital but the man refused to do so. They even alleged that it appeared as if the driver was under the influence of alcohol too. “He say he waiting till police come and it look like he de drunk and all to, cause he come out he car staggering and was talking loudly,” alleged one of the eyewitnesses. Eyewitnesses were forced to call an ambulance but by the time it arrived, Amsterdam reportedly died in front of them as the blood continued to gush from his wound. Paramedics onboard the ambulance pronounced him dead at the scene and police carried out the necessary investigations. Amsterdam’s relatives arrived shortly after and broke down into tears as they identified his remains to police. One of them was his pregnant girlfriend, Kenisha Forde. In tears, the woman
Alex Amsterdam’s body lying on the roadway
VACANCY Pastry Maker.Must be able to work with whole wheat flour. Call:697-8160. An experience & qualified manager to manage a wholesale & retail distribution business.Apply at Alabama Trading. Vacancy for 2 experienced hairdresser.Location Grove E.B.D,Tel:652-5800.
Alex Amsterdam’s pregnant wife collecting his jewellery from police
said that she and Amsterdam had been living together for three years now and are expecting their first child. The last words she heard from Amsterdam in a cell phone conversation were “Baby, I working a double.” Pitmen,Serviceman,Hauler She was expecting to meet Operator for interior location. him home later that evening Applicants must be experi- but when she got there, the news of his tragic demise enced. Call:231-2250.
greeted her. As the police placed his body into their pick-up, they called her to collect his jewellery. One of the ranks placed the man’s bloodied chains into her hands and as she received them, Forde could not hold back the tears and sobbed as she clutched them close to her body. Police then arrested the
driver of the car and drove off with Amsterdam’s body. His father described him as a peaceful and willing man who had many friends. He said that the void Amsterdam’s death has left can never be filled thus he is calling on investigators to conduct a fair investigation so that justice is granted.
Guyana will need more than update...
General Manager to work with Prominent Gold Mining Company.Contact Seema on From page 19 226-9416 or 625-1413. development in the long One clerk for TSI Eccles of- term.” The industry expert fice English & Math, grade 1 said that Guyana needs to or 2.Call:615-9132 or email pay attention to the lessons application to techserigy several countries offer on the pitfalls of oil. She said, too, @yahoo.com. that Guyana needs to guard Maid to cook and clean for against certain misconcepEast Bank area.Call:615-9132. tions about the petroleum in1 Forklift Operator.License not needed.Apply at LENS 136 Sheriff Street, C/ Ville.Tel:227-1511/227-2486. One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing. Keyfood Trading,Mc Doom village. Plant Shop Sales Staff.Age 18-30.Must be able to read & write,work outdoors & team player.Call:646-2108.
dustry. Expounding on this front, Dr. Usman said, “Oil wealth does not guarantee high incomes. Angola, Indonesia and Nigeria are all among the world’s top 20 oil producers but they remain lower-middle-income due in large part to their low-rents per capita. Secondly, attaining high-income status from natural resources wealth does not always translate into improved human development outcomes.” The industry ex-
pert added that while oil-rich monarchies such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have successfully achieved very high levels of human development and standards of living, it is not the case for other high-income oil producers such Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. “Clearly, the ability to invest this resource wealth to build physical and human capital is a determining factor,” expressed the industry expert. Taking the foregoing examples into consideration, Dr. Usman noted that achieving structural economic transformation is, therefore, a very difficult process and even more so for resource-rich countries. Be that as it may, she opined that envisioning successful
oil-led development in Guyana is not an insurmountable aspiration. In fact, Dr. Usman said today’s advanced industrialised countries like Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, USA, the UK, which are still major oil producers offer critical lessons for Guyana to learn from. The expert concluded, “There is no need to reinvent the wheel because there are important lessons to draw from the successes and failures around the world. In drawing on these lessons, Guyana can forge its own path and should not be straitjacketed into blindly copying from elsewhere as the global environment is radically different today in the 2020s than it was in the 20th century.”
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
Rice harvesting stalled in Region 6... From page 20 way. He stated too that in the areas of Auchlyne, Letterkenny and Borlam, canals will be cleared and dams will be done to facilitate farmers. In terms of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), Armogan noted that there have been a
number of reports in the region of bee infestation. Just recently, a mother and her children were stung by bees and had to be hospitalised but luckily the family has since been released and are home safely. In acknowledging that bees “are pretty dangerous,” the Chairman encouraged Berbicians to remove old
tyres, old machineries, containers and clear unwanted vegetation from properties that can be a haven for the bees. Persons can contact Dennis Deoroop who works directly with GLDA on 6406396 to have a crew in the region to respond quickly to reports of bee infestations or attacks.
VP Jagdeo yet to honour promise... From page 3 mounting concerns about the timeframe within which Redford’s team completed its review. It was done in six weeks. Industry experts have indicated to Kaieteur News that a proper review, in an expedited time period, takes nothing less than one year. Pivotal issues that were raised about the project included its cost. Notably, Exxon stated in a release in 2020 that the Payara development will cost US$9B to produce 600 million oil-equivalent barrels. This is US$3B higher than its US$6B estimate for the Liza Phase Two project, which will be producing at a similar peak rate from a reserve with a similar volume estimate. Exxon is yet to justify this significant cost difference. There were also two major environmental issues about the project which were not addressed to the satisfaction of several industry stakeholders. They relate to flaring and the dumping of produced water. With respect to the former matter, the government had
said it has strictly prohibited routine flaring without approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and explicitly stated that any flaring to maintain oil production is not allowed at the Payara project. A d d i t i o n a l l y, ExxonMobil’s local subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), will be expected to compensate the government for the cost of wasted gas during flaring and will be subject to fines under the EPA, which are related to emissions from flaring. It is also expected to establish a framework for a carbon price in line with international standards. Be that as it may, the EPA can grant permission on a month-by-month basis after taking into account, a study of the circumstances and a detailed report for requiring same. This is not a departure from the situation occurring at the Liza Phase One project, where ExxonMobil has flared over 15 billion cubic feet of natural gas. As for the dumping of pro-
duced water (which carries extreme heat levels and various toxic chemicals when brought up during the oil extraction process), Government was supposed to oversee a study to be conducted by Exxon since last year to examine the safe and efficient reinjection of the water as well as determine the effects of the reinjection on the reservoir. The licence states that the study will also seek to determine how the effects of dumping produced water in the ocean can be minimised. Government said that this is in keeping with its commitment to preserve marine life and water quality. In the meantime, the dumping of produced water at Payara has not been prohibited and the study, as required by the permit, has not been made public. ExxonMobil Guyana, in the meantime, has been permitted to dump thousands of barrels of produced water into the ocean at its Liza Phase One operations. The extent of the effects thus far on the country’s marine sector is yet to be assessed by independent experts.
Peru fishermen can now access... From page 22 another oil spill will not occur again in its waters. Subsequently, a fuel shortage in Peru forced the country’s OEFA to lift the suspension on Repsol’s operation temporarily. However, the company was only allowed to continue its operations for 10 days and under supervision from the OEFA. That 10-day period has long elapsed with the Peruvian government stating that it has other alternative sources to obtain fuel. According to Repsol’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Josu Jon Imaz, the clean-up and remediation of the spilled crude is expected to cost some US$65 million. To date, Repsol has failed to comply with five of the 16 administrative measures issued: identification of the areas affected by the spill; cleanup of affected areas; containment and recovery of
hydrocarbons; containment, recovery, and cleanup of hydrocarbons in Natural Protected Areas; and containment and recovery of the hydrocarbon from the second oil spill which occurred on January 15, 2022. As such, the OEFA has so far imposed five coercive fines for a total amount of 2,300,000 soles (US$616, 043). Moreover, Peru’s current Minister of Environment, Modesto Montoya, has cited the importance of legislative reform to adequately deal with companies after oil spills and to protect citizens. As the country grapples to recover from what has been described as an “ecological disaster”, the Minister pointed out that the country’s current laws are too permissive with the pollution produced by companies. Minister Montoya emphatically stated that he believes that Repsol is setting a
bad example for the population and other companies, due to the fact that it is not fully complying with its obligations in the clean-up and remediation of the areas damaged by the oil spill. As the Government of Peru takes action to protect its people and its environment, Guyana in contrast, continues to give American oil giant, ExxonMobil, permission to operate without a guarantee that it would cover the cost for any oil spill that surpasses the capacity of its subsidiaries to pay. In February, last, ExxonMobil announced that it has commenced oil production at Guyana’s second offshore development area called Liza Phase Two in the Stabroek Block. Among the oil companies working in Guyana’s backyard is the very oil company – Repsol – that caused the oil spill in Peru.
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Ministry records 5 new COVID-19 cases Despite dwindling cases, five women are the latest to contract the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), according to information released by the Ministry of Health on Tuesday. These, the Ministry revealed were recorded during the last assesses 24-hour period. Detected in Region Six, which recorded one, and Regions Three and Four which recorded two each, the cases have brought the total number of confirmed cases to 63,380. The dashboard data shows that six persons are in institutional isolation, 92 are in home isolation and six are in institutional quarantine. Additionally, the Ministry revealed that during the last assessed 24-hour, five persons recovered from the virus, bringing the total recovery cases to 62,054. To date, the countrys death toll stands at 1,228.
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Public Service credit union now offering paternity leave The Guyana Public Service Co-operative Credit Union and the Clerical and Commerical Workers Union on Tuesday signed a multi-year Memorandum of Agreement for salaries and other conditions of employment for the Credit Union’s staff. The Collective Labour Agreement (CLA), which will be in force until February 2024, will see, among other things, the introduction of paternity leave at the organisation for the first time. In a Facebook statement, the credit union said under the agreement, different categories of the Credit Union staff will enjoy a 15 percent, 10 percent, and 5 percent salary increase respectively for the year 2022. The agreement also caters for a 15 percent across-the-board increase for the year 2023, among other benefits. The signing of the agreement took place in the boardroom of the Ministry of Labour and was witnessed by Chief Labour Officer, Mr. Dhaneshwar Deonarine, along with Chief Co-op and Development Officer Ms. Debbie Persaud and the Credit Union’s Committee of Management.
…signs multi-year wage hike pact with workers’ union
Chairman of the Guyana Public Service Co-operative Credit Union, Trevor Benn along with officials of the Department of Labour and the CCWU following the signing of the agreement.
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Sports Minister issues Public Statement... From page 34 that there was never any need by our athletes at the CARIFTA Games for payment of covid testing and meals which the AAG was not in a position to handle from the support they received from the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Olympic Association, hence the reason why no additional assistance was sought from the Government of Guyana for these items as claimed in a facebook post by Nigel Hughes and the APNU-AFC. The Ministry and the National Sports Commission has had dealings with the AAG and Mr Hutson for over a year and a half and have no reason to doubt the veracity of Mr Hutson’s express statement.” “In fact, no media outlet has reported any situation of such a need, so one is left with no other choice but to conclude that the posts by Nigel Hughes and the APNU-AFC are false, self-serving, malicious and an attempt to gain cheap political points on the backs of our athletes representing Guyana when really we should be celebrating their outstanding success at the Games.
The public can be assured that there will never be a situation where our athletes are in another country and an unforeseen situation arises and this President Irfaan Ali led Government of Guyana will refuse to assist. In fact, the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission have done so many times already. A media video of the interview with Mr Hutson will be released shortly and Mr Hutson has agreed to issue a public statement today refuting the content of the post by Hughes.” “Finally, the success of Guyana and young Guyanese on the international stage is important to all of us. Uniforms and payment for Covid testing while not unimportant, it is inappropriate to be raised while our athletes are competing. It breaks their focus and risks affecting their performance. If you genuinely want to see what is best for our athletes, then there is a time and a season to deal with issues put them first - they deserve no less coming from people who claim to be interested in their welfare.”
Wednesday April 20, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) This probably isn't a good day to do work that concerns money, Aries. Your mind may not be in the right space. You could make errors that cause problems.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) The atmosphere around you could seem somewhat unreal today. If you get a weird vibe from someone, Libra, take everything this person says with a grain of salt.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) A lost object could have all the members of your household going through every room trying to find it - probably without success. Visitors could pitch in as well and help with the search.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Communication could take some extra effort today. A business or romantic partner could seem like they're keeping things from you.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) This could be a very busy day in your community, Gemini. Some kind of rally, protest, or other public gathering might take place. CANCER (June 21–July 22) A future course of action that you may or may not take could depend on information you might receive today. However, don't be surprised if the information is vague and needs to be clarified. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Are you unhappy or uncertain about your current profession, Leo? Are you thinking of making a change? News could reach you today of possible avenues to explore, but you shouldn't make any decision today. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your natural psychic or intuitive abilities could be shortcircuited today. Interference from the minds of other people could cloud issues, and this won't be any good.
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Kaieteur News
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Messages from a distant state or foreign country, possibly through fax, email, or website, might not be totally accurate, Sagittarius. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Staying in touch with a love partner could be difficult today, Capricorn, almost to the point of causing a minor panic. Don't jump to any unwarranted conclusions about possible problems in the relationship. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Are you having problems with the lighting or heating in your home, Aquarius? If so, you might not be able to get a professional out today. There could be problems in the entire neighborhood. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A friend or neighbor you need to contact could be in and out all day, and so you could have trouble reaching him or her. Phone or email probably won't work, since your friend could be too busy to check messages.
Liverpool 4-0 Manchester United: Salah at the double as rampant Reds go top SportsMax - Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool went top of the Premier League thanks to a resounding 4-0 victory over an abject Manchester United at Anfield yesterday. Luis Diaz and Salah were on target inside 22 minutes to put Jurgen Klopp’s side on course to leapfrog defending champions Manchester City, who will hope to return to the summit when they face Brighton and Hove Albion today. United failed to produce a single shot in the first half of a Premier League game for the first time in four years. On that occasion they came from 2-0 down to beat City 3-2, but there were scant signs of such a stirring fightback this time. Sadio Mane made sure of that by adding a fine finish to his exemplary assist for Salah, who sealed Liverpool’s first Premier League double over United since the 2013-14 season. The Reds wasted little time in taking the lead, with Salah exposing United’s lacklustre defence and squaring for Diaz to tap home after five minutes. The fans joined together in a touching show of support for Cristiano Ronaldo in the seventh minute, with the United forward absent following the death of his baby son. Paul Pogba was forced off with an injury and Liverpool doubled their lead
International Friendly: Guyana flips the script... From page 39 adversity gets me emotional,” Shabazz said. Taking a verse from Jamaican entertainer Chronixx, Shabazz stated. “They see us smile after the victory, but they don’t know what we feel inside us,” he said. “They don’t know what our Federation, our teams, our players go through and still we strive forward. If only the people knew what we feel inside for our country and the way we dedicate ourselves to represent. They will laugh little and weep much. Not just cry, they will weep.” “These young men will grow into a formidable unit for Guyana. May Allah grant us the focus and plant our feet firm on this journey,” ended Shabazz.
when Salah added a fine finish to a slick move involving Diaz, Joel Matip and Mane. United showed more gumption after a change of shape for the second half from interim boss Ralf Rangnick, with half-time introduction Jadon Sancho finally working Alisson with an effort. Alisson did well to deny Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga in quick succession after the hour mark, but Liverpool extended their advantage in the 68th minute when Mane swept a delivery from Diaz beyond David de Gea and into the bottom-right corner. Salah then looped the ball over De Gea with five minutes remaining as United were emphatically consigned to a third straight Premier League away defeat for only the fourth time in the history of the competition. What does it mean? Liverpool back on top Man City looked destined to cruise to the title when they held a 14-point lead over Liverpool as recently as January 15, even though the
Reds had two games in hand. But Liverpool have now won 11 of their 12 games since – their only dropped points being last week’s draw with Pep Guardiola’s side – to put themselves firmly in contention for an unprecedented quadruple. Thiago keeps it ticking Thiago Alcantara again absolutely bossed the midfield for Liverpool. He completed 105 of his 110 passes – both game highs – and lost possession just six times, which was the fewest of any Reds player. His seven duels won were also more than any other player on the pitch. Salah back on song A run of six appearances in all competitions without a goal came to an end for Salah. These were his first Liverpool goals since March 12 and a full two months since he last converted in open play in the top flight. What’s next? Liverpool take on Everton in the Merseyside derby on Sunday, while United are in action at Arsenal on Saturday.
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Du Plessis & Hazlewood send RCB joint-top
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portsMax - Faf du Plessis and Josh Hazlewood powered Royal Challengers Bangalore to their fifth win in seven Indian Premier League games as they eased past Lucknow Super Giants. The foundation for an 18-run win was laid as Du Plessis came four runs short of a century, his blistering 96 ensuring RCB reached 181-6 despite losing captain Virat Kohli for a duck. Lucknow got a series of starts, including from skipper KL Rahul (30) and Krunal Pandya (42), but they could not put a match-winning partnership together. A contributing factor to that failure was the brilliance of Hazlewood, whom RCB bought at this year’s auction. After his excellent performance against Delhi Capitals, Hazlewood provided further vindication of that
decision by taking 4-25. His last scalp, that of Australian compatriot Marcus Stoinis (24), effectively ended any hope Lucknow had of victory, with Jason Holder unable to recover the situation for the Super Giants in the final 10 balls. RCB are level on 10 points with Gujarat Titans at the top of the table. Gujarat have the edge because of their superior net run rate. No Faffing about Having seen the top order crumble around him, with Dusmantha Chameera claiming the wickets of Anuj Rawat and Kohli in successive deliveries in the opening over and Glenn Maxwell departing for 23, Du Plessis took it upon himself to hold the RCB innings together. He did so by hammering 11 fours and two sixes to record his joint-highest
IPL score and his second half-century of the season. Hazlewood’s hot streak The Super Giants must have known their luck was out when an initially ambitious looking review revealed Rahul had edged a leg-side delivery from Harshal Patel behind to the keeper. Krunal gave them hope thereafter but eventually fell to Maxwell before Hazlewood removed Ayush Badoni and Stoinis to round off a superb display from the former Chennai Super Kings quick, who now has eight wickets in three games after taking 3-28 against Delhi. Scores: Royal Challengers Bangalore 181 for 6 (du Plessis 96, Holder 2-25, Chameera 2-31) beat Lucknow Super Giants 163 for 8 (Krunal 42, Hazlewood 4-25, Harshal 2-47) by 18 runs.
Faf du Plessis plays one to the off side. •Apr 18, 2022•BCCI
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2022
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Demerara Cricket Board names squad for U-15 Dave West Indian inter-County tourney After the recently concluded DCB/Premier Insurance Under15 Inter Association tournament, the Demerara Cricket Board Junior Selection Panel has selected the best possible Demerara Under15 team in the GCB/Dave West Indian U-15 Inter County 2022 Tournament, scheduled to commence on April 22, 2022 an official release from the DCB informed. The Demerara Under15 team will be led by Captain Dave Mohabir and Vice Captain Arun Gainda with Shaun Massiah as Manager and Orin Bailey as Coach. The full DCB team are as follows: 1. Dave Mohabir -
Orin Bailey Captain 2. Captain 3. 4. 5.
ArunGainda - Vice Kishawan Silas Permeshwar Ram Sayyad Lakeram
6. Mikel Sharma 7. Josiah Lim 8. TrilokNanan 9. DhaneshPersaud 10. Emmanuel Lewis 11. Brandon Henry 12. Shane Prince 13. Reyaz Latif 14. Darwin la Rose Manager: Shaun Massiah Coach: Orin Bailey On Friday April 22, 2022 Demerara will face Essequibo at Imam Bacchus Cricket Facility in Essequibo in their first round match after which they will head to Number 69 Village, Berbice to play against host Berbice. Their final game will be played at Everest against the President’s IX.
Shaun Massaih
Aruna Gainda
Dave Mohabir
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Sports Minister issues Public Statement following Facebook post Minister of Sports Charles Ramson Jnr.
Minister of Sports Charles Ramson Jnr. has issued a public statement following a Facebook post made by Attorney Nigel Hughes and the APNU-AFC party. The post questioned payment for covid testing and meals at the Carifta Games athletes in Jamaica. However, the Sports Minister highlighted the government’s contribution of $3M and also that the Sports Ministry nor the National
Sports Commission were informed of any need for such support and or expenditure. Here is the full text of the Minister’s statement: “Having just met with the President of the Athletics Association of Guyana, Mr Aubrey Hutson, members of the National Sports Commission, and the Director of Sports, the public is hereby advised that Mr Hutson has stated (Continued on page 33)
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Guyana finishes fifth on Carifta Games medal count as Jamaica dominate Guyana finished fifth on the Carifta Games medal count as the Jamaican entourage dominated proceedings. Jamaica finished with a whopping 92 medals inclusive of 45 gold, 29 silver and 19 bronze, while Guyana had seven with 2 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze. Attoya Harvey won three of the seven medals; Gold in the Girls Under-17 1500m, silver in the Girls U-20 3000m and bronze in the Girls U-17 800m. Narissa McPherson secured a silver in the Girls U-17 400m, while Anisha
Gibbons secured Guyana’s first U-20 Javelin Gold and Adriel Austin claimed a bronze medal in the Girls U20 800m race.
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Kaieteur News
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BVI’s Adaejah Hodge gets third gold medal as Carifta Games come to a close
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portsMax Adaejah Hodge of the British Virgin Islands secured her status as the standout athlete of the meet with 200m gold as the 49th Carifta Games came to an end at the National Stadium in Kingston on Monday. Hodge ran 23.43 to win the U-17 Girls 200m ahead o f J a m a i c a ’s S a b r i n a Dockery (24.25) and Theianna-Lee Terrelonge (24.64) and add to her gold medals in the 100m and long jump. Jamaica’s Rickoy Hunter took gold in the U-17 Boys section with 22.13 ahead of St. Vincent’s Keo Davis (22.19) and Jamaica’s 400m champion Marcinho Rose (22.26). J a m a i c a ’s B r i a n n a Lyston took gold in the Girls U-20 in 23.16 ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Shaniqua Bascombe (24.18) and Jamaica’s Kaylia Kelly (24.33). Jamaica’s Bryan Levell completed the sprint double with 21.18 to win the U-20 Boys ahead of teammate Sandrey Davison (21.35) and Grenada’s Nazzio John (21.70). Bryana Davidson then
won gold for the hosts in the U-17 Girls 100m hurdles in 13.50 ahead of USVI’s Michelle Smith (14.31) and Jamaica’s Jody-Ann Daley (14.45). The top two spots in the Boys U-17 110m hurdles went to Jamaica’s Shaquane Gordon (13.69) and Jadan Campbell (13.91) while St. Kitts & Nevis’ Jermahd Huggins was third in 15.21. Jamaica once again found themselves with the top two spots on the podium in the Girls U-20 race as Alexis James ran 13.32 for gold ahead of teammate Oneka Wilson (13.67) and Barbados’ Nya Browne (14.63). C u r a c a o ’s M a t t h e w Sophia held his composure to triumph in the Boys U-20 110m hurdles in 13.74 ahead of Jamaica’s Demario Prince (13.88) and the Bahamas’ Antoine Andrews (13.91). Moving into the 800m, USVI’s Michelle Smith incredibly recovered from her 100m hurdles silver medal a few minutes earlier to win the U-17 Girls section in 2:10.78 ahead of Jamaica’s Andrene Peart (2:13.07) and Guyana’s Attoya Harvey (2:14.08).
Jamaica won the U-20 Girls event through JodyAnn Mitchell with 2:09.73. Barbados’ Layla Haynes ran 2:10.58 for second while Guyana’s Adriel Austin was third in 2:13.62. The Boys U-17 event was won by Jamaica’s Ainsley Brown in 1:58.08 ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Keeran Sriskandarajah (1:58.45) and Jamaica’s Rasheed Pryce (1:58.51). Jamaica’s J’Voughnn Blake added to his 1500m gold medal from Saturday with a 1:49.89 effort to win the U-20 Boys section a h e a d o f Tr i n i d a d & Tobago’s Nathan Cumberbatch (1:51.86) and Jamaica’s Adrian Nethersole (1:51.96). The Bahamas’ Mitchell Curtis won the U-20 Boys 5000m in 16:07.57 ahead of Jamaica’s Nicholas Power (16:08.93) and Trinidad and Tobago’s Tafari Waldron (16:35.73). The Jamaican team of Sabrina Dockery, Quana Walker, Deandra Harris and Abigail Campbell were dominant to win the U-17 Girls 4x400m relay in 3:43.59 ahead of Bermuda (4:03.23) and the Bahamas
Adaejah Hodge of the British Virgin Islands secured a third gold medal of the Carifta games by capturing the 200m. (4:04.11). Z a c h a r y Wa l l a c e , Ainsley Brown, Princewell Martin and Marcinho Rose combined to win the Boys U17 section in 3:17.85 ahead of Trinidad & Tobago (3:18.89) and the Bahamas (3:21.35). Sahfia Hinds, Onieka McAnuff, Shackelia Green and Rushana Dwyer combined to give the hosts their third 4x400m relay gold medal in the U-20 Girls section in 3:36.81 ahead of the British Virgin Islands (3:45.67) and Bermuda (3:48.69). Shemar Palmer, Roshawn Clarke, Bryan Levell and Delano Kennedy combined to run 3:08.94 to secure gold for Jamaica in the U-20 Boys section ahead of Trinidad and Tobago
(3:09.67) and Barbados (3:10.71). In the field, Jamaica’s Kobe Lawrence threw an impressive new record 20.02m to win the U-20 Boys shot put ahead of teammate Christopher Yo u n g ( 1 9 . 1 2 m ) a n d Barbados’ Kevon Hinds (16.18m). Jamaica’s Dionjah Shaw was also in record-breaking form in the U-17 Girls discus with a winning throw of 45.32m to better Paul Ann Gayle’s 2012 record of 43.99m. Her Jamaican teammate Rehanna Biggs was second with 42.41m and Trinidad & Tobago’s Adriana Quamina was third with 35.23m. J a m a i c a ’s J a y d o n Hibbert produced a windaided 17.05m to take gold in
the Boys U-20 triple jump ahead of Barbados’ Aren Spencer (15.80m) and Jamaica’s Royan Walters (15.59m). Sabrina Atkinson of Jamaica took gold in the U17 Girls triple jump with 12.00m ahead of French Guiana’s Leane Alfred (11.77m) and the Bahamas’ Zoe Adderley (11.45m). Jamaica finished at the top of the medal table with 92 medals including 45 gold, 29 silver and 18 bronze. The top five was rounded out by the Bahamas (four gold, six silver, seven bronze), the British Virgin Islands (four gold, two silver, one bronze), Trinidad & Tobago (two gold, 10 silver, 11 bronze) and Guyana (two gold, three silver, two bronze).
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Panamanian ready to battle for WBC belts
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he Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport warmly welcomed the Panamanian fighters to Guyana today and told them that the friendliness ends when they enter the squared circle. “It is my pleasure to have you all here and my country welcomes you but remember that only two winners will emerge from this magnificent event...and of course our entire country will be out there supporting Elton Dharry and Dexter Marques,” said Minister Ramson. The Director of the National Sports Commission Steve Ninvalle explained that it was important for the public to know that the fighters were in country and ready to fight, ”There will be no excuses or cancellation of this double WBC International Title they are here and ready to go to
Sports Minister Charles Ramson Jr. (C), GBBC President Peter Abdool and DOS Steve Ninvalle with boxers and promoters. battle.” Speaking with confidence, the undefeated Orlando Penalba stared down Elton Dharry and boldly predicted that he would remain lossless and return to Panama with the belt, “I am a sergeant in our military and when I fight I fight to win!” Dharry meanwhile quietly predicted that this would be a tough fight but one that his experience and strength would make him emerge victorious. “I’m not going to disappoint my thousands of fans and fellow Guyanese on Saturday at the Stadium.” Promoter Aleem Hussain said, “With the extraordinary assistance being provided by
Guyanese Elton Dharry squares off with Orlando Penalba. the Minister and the various departments under his control, we are now in a position to provide the greatest show in recent boxing history. This is the first time that we have experienced such cooperation and the Minister has led by example in ensuring that every aspect of the promotion is covered.” The Fight will be broadcast locally and internationally according to the head of NCN Mr. Neaz
CPL 2022: St. Lucia added to list of host venues
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he Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has confirmed that Saint Lucia will host matches during the 2022 season. Saint Lucia will be one of four countries to host Hero CPL matches in 2022 with the matches set to be played at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in Beausejour. The 2020 and 2021 seasons of the Hero CPL took place in Trinidad & Tobago and St Kitts & Nevis respectively with the COVID19 pandemic meaning the tournament needed to be played in one country. For the 2022 season the plan is to move around the region once again with three venues being used for the group stages and another selected for the finals. The tournament will take place from 30 August to the 30 September with St Kitts & Nevis Patriots looking to defend the title they won in 2021. Pete Russell, Hero CPL’s CEO said: “We
are very pleased to confirm that we will be back in Saint Lucia in 2022 and we are grateful to the government for working with us to make this happen. Saint Lucia has been such a huge part of the Hero CPL story and as we enter our 10th season it is great to be back at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground this year.” Lorine Charles-St. Jules, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority commented: “We are delighted to be one of the venues for CPL this year. The pandemic limited major sporting events across the world so to be able to welcome back a prestigious tournament such as this means a lot to us. This event is full of opportunities. It’s a chance to enjoy the brilliant sportsmanship that you see on the cricket field and it’s an opportunity to come together and enjoy our Saint Lucian hospitality. We look forward to welcoming spectators and visitors this September.”
Subhan, “We have done several events with the Guyana Boxing Board and are confident that Devon and our team will deliver excellent quality and companies can advertise with us at extremely competitive rates on the
23rd.” In addition to the packed action in the ring, there will be a halftime show put on by HJ Entertainment featuring top local artistes and dance to showcase Guyanese talent to the world. Many major sponsors and new companies in Guyana such as Demerara Mutual Life Insurance, Comfort Sleep, Samtronix, Morgan’s Investment, Hand in Hand Insurance, Unique Electrical, Caribbean Motor Spares, HRTN Consulting,
Darthan Investments, Turbo Energy Drink, SuperBet, Demerara Distillers Ltd (DDL) along with dozens of overseas based Guyanese companies are supporting the event. Tickets, priced as low as $1,000 for this amazing event are on sale at Giftland, Movietowne, Amazonia Malls, all Assuria General Insurance offices nationwide, The Locals Restaurant in Vreed-en-hoop and Fagoo’s General Store in Parika.
Livestream Coverage for GCB/Dave West Indies Imports and Exports U-15 Inter-County Cricket Tournament The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) in collaboration with Dave West Indies Imports and Exports will commence the Under-15 Inter-County Tournament 2022 on Friday April 22, 2022. The first-roundmatches will be played at the Imam Bacchus Ground in Essequibo and the Number 69 ground in Berbice. The playing of matches at various venues across the country as against restricting matches to Demerara is a priority choice of the GCB. Board President Bissoondyal Singh pointed out that it is critical that we expose players from an early age to varying conditions. He said, “By playing matches across the country players will need to assess and adopt to the different pitch conditions in real time – within the context of match. Further, traveling across the country givesplayers more opportunities to grow as a team, to negotiate challenges that arise due to the dynamics of the team and the display toambassador qualities that comes with the responsibility of representing teams.” The GCB President went on to remark that another priority choice of the GCB’s 5year strategy plan is to provide livestream of Inter-County matches. He said, “This allows our players and proud sponsors to be further marketed within and outside of Guyana. The live and recorded videos will give players and coaches additional opportunity to assess players’ strengths and weaknesses and to strategically plan for their development.” The GCB/Dave West Indies Imports and Exports Under-15 Inter-County Tournament 2022 will have live stream and commentary
GCB’s President Bissoondyal Singh for each round beginning with live streaming at Imam Bacchus in round one, Albion Community Centre ground in round two, Everest Cricket Club ground in round three and Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda for the finals on Friday April 29, 2022. The full fixtures will be released and representative teams will be released prior to the first round. However, the first-round match Essequibo versus Demerara at Imam Bacchus will have livestream coverage on the l i n k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRyqBg NIj3k.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2022
Rivers View lift Bartica Easter Regatta ‘Bounce Back’ Football title Potaro Strikers clobbers way to third place against AX Galaxy Franklin Wilson story and photos A commanding display of solid football in offence and defence guided Rivers View to the first place in the Bartica Easter Regatta ‘Bounce Back’ football competition which was organized by the Bartica Football Association (BFA) in conjunction with the Easter Regatta Committee. Four days of football which attracted seven (7) teams ended on Easter Saturday night at the Bartica Community Centre Ground and was witnessed by a very large crowd. Rivers View were the only team that played unbeaten as they dispatched Lazio 2-0 in the championship match to walk away with the top prize of $360,000. It was a bruising affair, fit for a final as neither of the teams were able to wrest the early initiative by imposing themselves on each other. The Rivers View fans were very animated and tried their best to motivate their fellow villagers at varying points of the encounter which was witnessed by the Honourable Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton, Leader of the Opposition Aubrey Norton, Regional Chairman Kenneth Williams, Mayor of Bartica His Worship Gifford and BFA President, Alden Marslow among other dignitaries. But as the match matured, the patience of the fans was being tested as they started calling for a goal. Their patience was finally rewarded with 11 minutes to the final whistle. The Rivers View lads were jumping for
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Ex-Football Executive Andre Daziel dies in the US at 51
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Dariq James is being rewarded as the Best Goalkeeper by Sonia Noel. joy when Antonio Jones finally broke the deadlock with a well taken shot that evaded the Lazio defence and goalkeeper. The Rivers View fans were equally ecstatic and their voices were heard resonating back over the rivers to their family and friends who were left at home. One goal was never going to make fans and players comfortable so Rivers View doubled the advantage so that their minds could have been more relaxed as the match neared conclusion. With four minutes to full time, Omario Lake banged in the sealer to once again send the fans into a frenzy. Immediately after the final whistle, the celebrations went into overdrive as players, friends, family, and fans celebrated a well-deserved win. The champions also walked away with the two individual prizes with the MVP trophy
awarded to Kellon Richardson with Dariq James taking the Best Goalkeeper accolade. The preceding thirdplace match saw a blowout win for Potaro Strikers against upstarts LA Galaxy, 9-2 with a brace each from Troy Parris (5th, 15th), Jermaine Padmore (9th, 11th), and Daniel Gardener. There was one each for Lorenzo Cummings (65th), Arlington Williams (77th), and Antoine Allen in the 80th minute. AX Galaxy’s goals were scored by Voldener Da Fonsia in the 7th minute and Ryan Andrews in the 48th minute. The presentation of prizes took place immediately following the final with Lazio receiving $200,000 while Potaro Strikers pocketed $100,000.The other clubs participating in the competition were Beacons, Wolves United and Agatash United.
Mayor Gifford Marshall presented 2nd placed Lazio with their trophy and cash prize.
ormer Malteenoes youth cricketer and Ex-Western Tigers Footballer Andre Daziel passed away at 4:00am on Monday reportedly from a brain tumour. The former Treasurer of Western Tigers Football Club and former Executive of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) would have turned 52 this year. Daziel was also a former Manager of the Alpha Football team, Accountant at Office of the President and Ministry of Public Service. He also played Tapeball cricket for Office of the President and in the mid-80s played for Malteenoes at U16 level. “I was shocked and saddened to learn about the passing of Andre Daziel. I would like to extend my condolences to his family, love ones and the members of our football community. The GFF will issue a release on his passing once all the facts are gathered,” said President of the GFF Wayne Forde. Sports Journalist and Cricket Commentator, Sean Devers who was a member of the 1999 Guyana FirstClass Squad remembered playing with the late Daziel. “We played cricket together for Malteenoes at
Andre Daziel the Under-16 level before he shifted his attention to football. He was multitalented and would still play Tapeball cricket for OP in the inter-Ministries tournament before leaving for the US. I didn’t even know he was so ill. Rest in Peace Andre,” said Devers. Deborah McNichols, the President of Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) said she and the late Daziel were good friends and he would be missed. “Yesterday (Sunday), we were all praying for his healing. He was one of my best friends. One of his
friends called very early (Monday) to let me know he had passed. Lord knows it hurt badly. I understand he had liver issues too,” informed McNichols. “He worked with me in Legal Affairs also when it was football, we used to manage the gates and finance,” added the MSC President. “He was hardworking, dependable, trustworthy and committed to whatever he did. He will be missed by the football fraternity,” said Odinga Lumumba of a man who worked with him in Ministry of Legal Affairs.
Guyana tallies seven at Carifta Games 2022 Following three days of intense competition in the Caribbean’s most prestigious junior track and field event, Caritas 2022, Guyana emerged with a total of seven medals. Leading the way for the Guyanese was the impressive middle distance runner, Attoya Harvey, who accounted for three of the seven medals. Harvey won Gold in the Girls Under-17 1500m on Saturday, then claimed silver in the Girls U-20 3000m the following day. She topped her campaign off with a hard fought bronze medal which she claimed in the Girls U-17 800m on the final day (Monday). Narissa McPherson secured a silver medal on Sunday in the Girls U-17 400m while Anisha Gibbons achieved a marvelous feature of securing Guyana’s first U-20 Javelin Gold. She added that to her U-17 Javelin Gold which she won at the same event in 2019. Adriel Austin accounted for Guyana final medal on Day three when she secured a bronze medal in the Girls U-20 800m race. Austin stopped the clock in a time of
2:13.62s behind the victor from Jamaica, Jody-Ann Mitchell (2:09.73s) and the second place finisher of Barbados, Layla Haynes (2:10.58s). Prior to Austin’s event, Guyana’s Javon Roberts suffered a painstaking end to his 2022 Carifta campaign when he was obstructed in the Boys U-17 800m final and fell, immediately taking him out of the end. Roberts was bumped into by a wild movement from Turks and Caicos’ Hency Gedeon who was disqualified for his action at the end of the race. Roberts was among the first to secure medals for Guyana on the opening day when he placed second in the Boys U-17 1500m. Meanwhile, it was a tough outing for the remainder of the Guyanese contingent that did not seize the opportunity to secure a medal, but without a doubt it was a gainful experience. The other members of the team included Shamar Horatio, Ezekiel Newton, Wesley Tyndall, Gabriel Lim, Trevon Hamer, Keliza Smith, Karese Lloyd, Hannah Reid and Stafon Roach.
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Wednesday April 20, 2022
Combined Squad tames Junior Jags in opening encounter The Guyana Boys’ U16 National Team fought valiantly but ultimately lost against a physical and more experienced host side in the first match of the UEFA Assist friendly tournament in Bosnia and Herzegovina yesterday. The match, Guyana’s first appearance at a European international competition at any level, revealed the differences between the standard of youth football in the Caribbean and Europe, with a strong Bosnia and Herzegovina team eventually running out 9-1 winners. The Junior Jaguars will be aiming to take lessons from the defeat and to show improvement in their next fixtures against Lithuania and Montenegro in the unique development tournament that is designed to build bridges across cultures, and drive knowledge exchange and improvements in youth football. “We played against the home team today and we already knew they were a superior team,” said Head Coach Vurlon Mills. “But I must commend my players for their strength, desire and the passion they showed in the way they played.
Guyana’s Under-16 Boys National Team take a photo op prior to their first match. I’m very proud of how we played today. As I said before, the result was not important, but how we played as a team – and we performed well with a good general understanding.” “Our aim is August, with the Concacaf U17
Championship qualifiers,” said Coach Mills. “We are working on how we press the ball collectively, and we can only build on that. In a few weeks, going into our preparations for the qualifiers, they can only get better at it and it will be
impossible to penetrate.” Christopher Whitter, a second half substitute, put away Guyana’s only goal – the first scored by a Jaguars in a European tournament. “When I was on the bench, I watched how they played and when they made a
wall they left always the middle always on, so when the ball playing now, I pushed and got the header and scored,” Witter said. “It felt great!” Defender Kvist Paul said the team played with a “great manner” and has started to
develop a better understanding of each other. “Playing in Europe for the first time, I think we’ve done great,” Paul said. “From my perspective, I feel I put my best and I’m keen to see what we can do in the next match.” G u y a n a p l a y Montenegro on Thursday, April 21, and Lithuania on Sunday, April 24. GFF Assistant Technical Director Bryan Joseph thanked UEFA Assist for facilitating Guyana’s participation in the competition and said the experience would hopefully open doors for more teams from Guyana and the Caribbean to participate in future competitions. “ I t ’s a t r e m e n d o u s opportunity for the development of our young players - UEFA Assist agreeing to bring us out here and to have the opportunity to play against European teams,” Joseph said. “The boys have really taken to it,” he said. “I am excited about what this level of competition can do for the growth and development of the players. We want to be able to do this on an annual basis with other youth teams – to get this experience and to see what football in Europe is like.”
Guyana Masters Football Team claim Modern Optical Trophy
Anthony Abrams won the MVP award.
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he Guyana Masters Football Team put forth a masterful performance in the final match of the International Masters Goodwill Football To u r n a m e n t t o d e f e a t S u r i n a m e ’s S V R a t i o Masters Team and lift the Modern Optical Trophy. Suriname arrived here on Saturday for the third match
of the best-of-three format, which took place on Monday evening at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground. Prior to the start of the match, the aggregate between the sides from the two previous match was 2 – 2. These two sides are the only teams in the event and are were tied at 1 – 1 after Guyana won the opening leg
Guyana Masters’ Captain Christopher Barnwell receives the Modern Optical Trophy in the presence of his squad and their coach, Gordon ‘Ultimate Warrior’ Brathwaite. 1 – 2 in Suriname then the opposition leveled the series with a 0 – 1 victory at GFC. However, Guyana were able to secure a 3 – 1 win on Monday for the final aggregate to read, 5 – 3. Drawing first blood for the host side was Anthony Abrams who found the back of the net in the 16th minute. That goal was the tension breaker for Guyana, but
signaled the visitors to rethink their defensive plan. The remainder of the first half went goalless. After the 15-minute break, Rawle Gittens doubled the lead for the home team in the 48th minute. Eight minutes later it became a one-possession match again when Suriname pulled one back through Nizam Froade in the 56th
minute. When the eight minutes that followed that goal was reached, Guyana made it a two-possession game once again when Dellon Alleyne (64th) scored the host team’s final goal. At the presentation ceremony, Abrams was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP), his teammate Andrew Bright copped the
Best Goal Keeper award, while Suriname’s Ravwani Comacho won the Best Defender award. Meanwhile, the organiser Sheldon Bobb was 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 Supply.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2022
PAGE 41
National Junior Chess Championship…
Couchman asserts himself to the top
Kyle Couchman
- Tournament concludes today
I
n the National Junior C h e s s Championship, sponsored by DeSinco Ltd., Kyle Couchman has taken the lead after 5 rounds as the only player on 4 points. The 12-year-old Couchman, who qualified in 9th place after the qualifiers, has assumed the lead over more experienced players such as Rajiv Lee who has been a force to reckon with in recent competition and Ethan Lee who won the qualifiers. He will, however, need to face them in addition to Ronan Lee and Keron Sandiford in the coming days. Couchman opened the tournament with a draw against top female player
Sasha Shariff then went on to secure three consecutive wins against Ricardo Narine, Matthew Singh and Mayas Khan. In his fifth round on Monday, Couchman found himself in a theoretically disadvantageous position against Jessica Callender, but at the end of the threehour match, it ended in a draw by agreement. Rajiv Lee, Ethan Lee and Sandiford are currently tied on 3.5 points. Ricardo Narine is close behind on 2.5 points and coming up after him is Ronan Lee, Shariff and Callender, all on 2 points. Singh is on a solitary point. Players assembled again at the Guyana National Stadium yesterday and will wrap up the tournament today with the final 2 rounds
International Friendly: Guyana flips the script on French Guiana The Guyana Senior Men’s National Team beat French Guiana 2- 1 in Cayenne on Monday evening, levelling the series in the second of two international friendlies with an improved performance and dedicating the deserved victory to Guyanese fans based in the French overseas territory. First-half goals from Kelsey Benjamin and Jamal “Skinny” Perreira gave the Golden Jaguars a two-goal lead at half time, with French Guiana pulling one back late in the game and triggering a tense finish at the Georges Chaumet Stadium. However, Guyana’s back four, marshalled by Quincy Adams, held off the late onslaught. The final whistle sent Guyanese fans in Cayenne in a frenzy, with the Golden Jaguars securing a revenge victory. “This victory was for our Guyanese people living here in Cayenne. May they walk proud and know that Guyana’s football loves them,” stated Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz. “These lads continue to make us proud.
Kelsey Benjamin It’s not the win, but the effort and discipline they put into their performance.” “They rose above so many challenges on this trip and put in a command performance,” explained Shabazz. The win saw Guyana bounce back from the disappointment of a 2-1 loss in the first game, and the character shown by the team has excited the Coach Shabazz. “The spirit of this team and the way we learn our lessons and overcome (Continued on page 33)
of the Nationals. All boards will be streamed live on guyanachess.org and youtube commencing at 9:00 hrs and at 14:00hrs each day.
Kyle Couchman and Jessica Callender battled to a draw.
Regional Chairman Kenneth Williams handing over the top prize and trophy to the Rivers View Captain in the presence of fellow players, BFA President Alden Marslow (right), and other Executive Members.
rts o p S Adriel Austin
Rivers View lift Bartica Easter Regatta ‘Bounce Back’ Football title - Potaro Strikers clobbers way to third place against AX Galaxy
Guyana tallies 7
at Carifta MVP Kellon Richardson received his trophy from fashion icon, Sonia Noel.
Games CPL 2022: St. Lucia added 2022
to list of host venues
Javon Roberts
CPL will have matches in St Lucia this year. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.