Kaieteur News

House clears mysterious compensation for families of Mahdia dorm fire victims

The National Assembly

onWednesdayapproved $350 million for the Ministry of Finance; part of which will be used to pay out compensationtotherelativesofthe 20 students who were injured and those who perished in the Mahdia dormitoryfireonMay21,2023

The House was at the time considering Financial Paper Numberthreeinwhichgovernment wasseekingatotalof$61billionin supplementaryfunds.

Efforts by the Parliamentary Opposition to ascertain how much of the approved sum will be directed to the payout for the familiesofthosevictimswerefutile as the Senior Minister in the Office o f t h e P r e s i d e n t w i t h

Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh explained that those details were already in the public domain.

ItwasformerMinisterofPublic Health, Volda Lawrence who questionedthe156percentincrease in funds being sought by the MinistryunderthePublicFinancial Management Policies and Services. She pointed out that approximately $225 million was already allocated in this direction; however, details in the Financial Paper for supplementary funds indicatedthatanextra$350million wasrequested.

To this end, Dr Singh explained, “Under this additional amount is finances for the families of the girls who lost their lives in

theMahdiafireandthosewhowere injured and legal judgment for whichwehavenocontrol.”

The Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Volda Lawrence requested a disaggregation of the sum for the specific allocation to the burn victims to be revealed and for the Minister to explain what criteria was used to determine the compensation package for the families.

The Finance Minister however pointedoutthathehadnointention of repeating details that are already inthepublicdomain.

“I think it's been abundantly ventilated in the public that government has offered to provide some financial assistance and we have been providing that

assistance We made some emergency interventions at the time and so a part of this allocation isintendedtomeetthosecosts,orto recoup those costs that were incurred,”heexplained.

Nevertheless,theMinisterwent ontopointoutthatwhilethematter is of great public interest and has been the subject of numerous discussions, he will not be providingananswertothequestion since the information is already public.

He said, “This matter has been the subject of a lot of discussion in the public domain and statements have been made by the Attorney General... and by the President. I don't believe that there is a necessity and I have sir, no

intentions of repeating what has already been said and is on public record as having been said by both the President and the Attorney General.”

It was reported that the Government of Guyana (GoG) has commenced the process of giving financial assistance to the relatives of the 20 children who died as a result of the horrific dormitory fire inMahdia.

According to a document seen by this publication, each family will receive, if agreed, the sum of $5 million in financial assistance, whichconstitutesasettlementofall claims and causes of actions on account of all injuries resulting in deathandnotresultingindeath,asa resultedofthefire.

The fire which gutted the Mahdia Secondary School's female dorm. (Photos taken from News Room)

Govt. sidesteps question on Exxon's expenditure for Gas-to-Energy project

Th e N a t i o n a l

Assembly on

W e d n e s d a y approved over $5 billion for transmission and distribution works associated with the highly touted Gas-to-Energy (GTE)Projectasgovernment dodged question with regard to the total sum expended by oil giant ExxonMobil to developtheinitiative.

This year, $43.3 billion was approved in the national Budgettosupporttheproject.

It was former Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence who zeroed in on the expenses incurred by the th company, during the 67 Sitting of the National Assembly as the House resolved into the Committee of Supply to consider Financial Paper Number

Three, in which the government requested an additional $61 billion to support its additional work programme.

Responding to questions on the specific line item was Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh. He was acting on behalf of Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd)

…US$30M approved for transmission work

Mark Phillips who is currentlyoutofcountry

Notably, the Finance Minister did not respond to the Opposition Member of Parliament's (MPs) specific concern, but instead addressed spending by governmentontheproject.

He said, “In relation to the construction of the power plant and associated investment including the T&D (transmission and distribution), those investments are being financed by the government of Guyana out of the budgetary appropriations that the Budget has approved a n d n o w t h e s e s u p p l e m e n t a r y appropriations being sought.”

Former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson followed up on the response and asked the Minister to disaggregate the sum that has been expended ontheactivitiessofar,butDr Singh committed to providing the information to theAssemblyatalaterdate.

Four wounded after man randomly shoots at group

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday said that four persons are nursing gunshot wounds after a man dressed in a grey hoodie randomly started shooting at group of persons gathered at B-Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Hospitalized are, Abdool

Joshua Kamal, a 32-year-old Welder of 'A' Field Sophia, Shellon Collins, a 23-yearold Shopkeeper of 'B' Field Sophia, Omale Dick, a 27year-old Labourer of Lodge Housing Scheme and Quincy Hoyte, a 33-year-old

Labourerof'B'FieldSophia.

Kamalwasshottohisleft shoulder while Collins received a bullet to her left sideface.Dickreceivedthree bulletstohisbody:twotothe abdomen and one to his left thigh and the fourth victim, Hoytewasstruckinhislower back The shooting, according to police, took place around 21:30hrs on Tuesday while a group of persons gathered to look at two men fight over dispute betweentheirwives.

Police said that Collins is one of the men's wives

It must be noted that the GTE project features three components including the pipeline being developed by ExxonalongwiththeNatural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility and 300-megawatt power plant being pursued by the Government of Guyana (GoG).

Exxonwillbefundingthe 12-inch pipeline that will transport the natural gas to the Wales Development site, West Bank Demerara (WBD). In the meantime, government has pursued the United States Export Import (US-EXIM) Bank for a GY$134 billion (US$646 million) loan to finance the othertwocomponents.There has been no indication so far that the application was approved by the financial institution.

The question from the Opposition on the sum expended by Exxon on the project comes on the heels of a report by Kaieteur News

Police

Collins claimed that the woman identified as Felicia Thom had 'pelted' her shop earlier that day. It led to a misunderstanding between them and they both complained to their husbands.Laterthatevening, Collins' husband confronted Thom's husband and they began fighting. According to police, a crowd gathered around to watch them fight but a lone gunman sent them scattering after he walked towards them, pulled a handgun from his waist and began shooting before running away Four persons were shot in the process includingCollins.

Eyewitnesses disclosed that the shooter was dark in complexion and was about sixfeettall.

He was at the time dressed in a grey hoodie and redandblackpants.

Police were called and foundeight9mmspentshells at the scene Ranks are currently in pursuit of the suspect.

that while the oil company told the High Court it spent US$206 million, it only gave account for US$50 million in asubsequentsubmission.See l i n k b e l o w https://wwwkaieteurnewson line com/2023/08/09/exxontells-court-it-spent-us206mbut-only-accounts-forus50m/

$5B more approved

The National Assembly approved an additional $5 billion yesterday to finance the transmission and distribution lines for the project.

According to the Finance Minister, “This line item finances a number of interventions associated with the Gas-to-Energy or Gas to Power project including the EPC contract, this is the contract for Engineering and P r o c u r e m e n t a n d Construction of the power plant itself; project managementandsupervision

expenses; components in relation to upgrading the transmission and distribution network in order to adequatelyandefficientlyoff take the power that would be generated by this project and associatedinterventions.”

Dr Singh said the supplementary funds were required as works have been advancingontheseaspects.

He said, “What this amount represents sir, is giventheupdatedprojections of how each of these contracts will advance- the E P C c o n t r a c t ; t h e

construction of the power plant for which an international company has been contracted and they have already started preliminary work this represents now the latest estimate of what we will require for the totality of the project.”

The Minister also clarified that the sum does not include costs to compensate land owners for the acquisition process presently ongoing to facilitate the transmission lines.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh makes a point during the National Assembly yesterday

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor-:NIGELWILLIAMS

Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210

EDITORIAL

Petroleum Bill –Ministerial Powers

ThePetroleumActivitiesBill2023(Petroleumbill)that is now before parliament has a slew of positives in it. On paper, the Petroleum Bill has provisions that could significantly benefit this country’s management of the sector, with two qualifications. The potential benefits incorporatedintothePetroleumBillwillonlyhappenifthe stewards execute their powers with the highest regard for standards,andthosepowersarediversified.

The list of powers is enormous, and in the hands of the overseeing minister The minister can delegate many of the powerscurrentlycontemplatedindraftform Buthecanalso reversethepowersgiventoapublicentity,orapublicofficer

Theministercantakebackthepowersgranted,andvestthemin himself,orhecantamperwithdecisionsmade Itisourposition thatthisistoomuchpowervestedinoneman,orwoman,asthe case could be later This becomes obvious when the range of powersinthedraftlegislationtabledisexamined

Thesubjectministerhastotalcontrolofmostaspectsofthe operationsofthesector Theissuanceoflicensesforexploration and production are in ministerial hands Safety and environmentalmatters,aswellastheproperdisposalofresidual waste materials also fall within the minister’s purview The minister can protect, correct, and redirect He or she can introduceenhancementsmadenecessarybycircumstancesand fromthosethatwerelearnedalongtheway Thisisallgood,but recognition of norms in Guyana stirs more than routine skepticismrelativetothesepowersallbeingwithonepolitical person Therecordisbrightwithdraftbillsthatbecamelawsfor otherareas,andwhichhadwhatwasrequiredtobestservethe interestsofthiscountry Theyhadprovisionsandclausesthat reassuredGuyanesethatthebestcouldresultforthiscountry,but onlyifthepowerswerehandledmostappropriately. Inmany instances,theywerenot,andcitizenshavehadtolivewiththe consequences. Wehavehelpfuldruglaws,wehavesolidanti moneylaunderinglaws,wehavepenetratingcybercrimelaws, to name a few, but implementation has been problematic, withthoselawsfallingshortofwhatwasimpressivelystated on paper Responsible ministers have tried to wiggle themselves out of corners for overreaching, or resorting to silence, or not living up to letter or spirit of the law’s requirement. Though important, those laws covered areas that pale into some insignificance when compared to the differencethatacomprehensivepetroleumbillcouldmake to this society Thedraftbilldoes,indeed,haveprovisionfor transparencyandaccountabilityintheoilsector,andseemingly every step of the way We repeat for emphasis: this law in waitinghasteeth Butitisonlyasthegoodasthemanandthe womaninchargeofit Andwhentoomuchpowerisplacedinto asinglepairofhands,thenprudencefailsontheoccasionsmost needed,thebafflingoccurswiththecountry’sinterestsinjured Usually, there is no recourse because what was done is sanctionedbystandinglaw

Ontheissuesoftransparencyandaccountability,Guyanese are already too familiar with promises about both, and how muchtheyexistingovernancetoday Thecommitmentshave comefromthetopofthepoliticalpyramid,withinsistentclaims tothateffect Yet,therealityisofanenvironmentthatisplagued by secrecy To counter the preponderance of powers in ministerial hands, there should be some checks and balance, some restraining presences, over the vast array of ministerial powersinthisPetroleumBill.

Alayerofexpertandindependentcivilianinvolvement couldgivecredibility,notoneveryaspectofthelaw,buton some of the sensitive ones. Examples include licensing, safety, bidding, spending, and managing of licensee bottlenecks.Webelievethatthepowersmustbediversified, andallmustnotberetainedbythegovernment. Abadname hasbeenearnedbygovernment,forthathascometomean oneman,onewayofdoingthings,andoneresult,likeitor not. Oil represents too much of Guyana’s future, and its management and control should be with government and outsideofit.

The non-oil economy would be severely stressed to service ballooning debt

DEAREDITOR, Aletterentitled‘Notions thatthelevelofborrowingis reckless are far-fetched penned by Mr Bhagwandin was published earlier this week in Stabroek News (August 8, 2023) The backdrop to this letter is as follows The National Assembly approved last week a new debt ceiling to facilitate greater borrowing. Guyana’s domestic public debt ceiling was increased fromGYD500billionto750 billionGYDandtheexternal borrowingceilingwasraised from650billionGYDto900 billion GYD Guyana’s gross public debt ceiling is now at 1650 billion GYD (7.9 billion USD), up from 1150 billion GYD (5 5 billion USD) when it was last increased by the current administration in January 2021. This amounts to an increase of the gross debt ceiling by 143% Mr Bhagwandin’s letter was debunking concerns voiced by the Shadow Finance Minister, Ms Juretha Fernandes, in the National Assembly She was calling thegovernment’sborrowing as reckless given that the major non-oil sectors of the Guyanese economy such as sugar, bauxite and gold are underperforming. Guyana’s

ability to service the debt is becoming more and more d e p e n d e n t o n t h e performance of a single sector of the economy, specifically the oil and gas industry As a reminder, stagnation of the non-oil sectors of the economy; heavy reliance on a single resource, such as crude oil; and fiscal and budgetary mismanagement are all considered indicators of the ‘DutchDisease’.

In his rebuttal letter, Mr Bhagwandin once again showers the reader with a random collection of incomplete economic data for the years 2020 to 2023; includingnon-oilGDP,total non-oil revenue, and annual debt service, to make his points Why doesn’t he provide a table with the complete data for the years 2020, 2022 and the projections for 2023? This table needs to include the followingnumbers(inUSD) for the years indicated:GDP-Non-oilGDP-Gross Debt(domesticplusexternal debt)-AnnualDebtServiceTotal Revenue - Total Nonoil Revenue - Debt-to-GDP Ratio-Debt-to-NonoilGDP Ratio - Debt Service-toRevenue Ratio - Debt Service-to-Nonoil Revenue RatioTheauthoralsofailsto

indicate the sources of the primarydatahedrawson.Is hereferringtodatafromthe Bank of Guyana? In the absence of the full set of economicdata,thereader(as well as the author) could easilybemisled.

Despite the fragmentary natureofthedataprovidedin theletter,it’sevidentthatthe debt-to-nonoilGDPratiohas increasedfrom38%in2020 to78%asprojectedfor2023, which brings the debt levels intherangeofwhatweseein m a t u r e E u r o p e a n economies,whichareforthe most non-oil producing economies It is well established that countries with high debt to GDP ratio tend to undergo economic slowdowns.Whatistheideal debt to GDP ratio for a country? Economists believethatratiosof70-80% are the threshold points beyond which countries experience an exponential fall in economic growth. Hence, Guyana’s debt-tononoil GDP will soon reach that critical range In addition,Guyana’seconomy is far from being mature, competitive and diversified as those of many European countries.SincethePPP-led administration took power, threeyearsago,value-added taxes and customs duties

were reduced or abolished for selected sectors of the economy and no measures were taken to compensate for the shortfall of government revenues Importantly, the oil and gas sector, which contributes to 90%ofGuyana’sexports,is exempt from any taxation. The Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement(PSA)grantstax exemptions to ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC for the entire duration of the contract Therefore, the government’s ability to servicetheincreasedburden of debt relies almost exclusively on Guyana’s share of profit oil. If oil prices were to fall s i g n i f i c a n t l y, t h e Government would have to resorttoincreasingthetaxes anddutiesleviedonthenonoilsectorsoftheeconomyas well as on the common people.

Hence, the ability of Guyana to repay its debt in absence of robust and growingoilrevenuesshould be indeed of concern to the Guyanesetaxpayer

Sincerely,

AndreBrandli,PhD

On behalf of the Oil & Gas Governance Network ( O G G N ; www.oggn.org/about)

Unsaid is the other side of Dr. Luncheon, many current MPs and ex-MPs

DEAREDITOR,

ThepassingofDr Roger Luncheon was met with sympathies and best wishes to his family, which is much warranted He received accolades for all his achievements from academicsandpublicservice which someone like me can never achieve. Good words for him came from a broad spectrum of society regardless of race and politics. I won’t insult the departed and have nothing personally against the man, buthewaspartofapolitical system with which I have issues.

Forthosewhodon’tknow, previouslyandcurrently,there isaracketgoingonwithinthe MinistryofHealth,wherevital drugs procured for the public hospitals to cure sickness for ordinary Guyanese, mysteriously disappear and endupinprivatehealthentities and private pharmacies

Thousands of poor Guyanese from all walks of life died becausethedrugswerenotin

the public hospitals to save them from health issues and the poor couldn’t afford the private healthcare offered in Guyana. I know some who were part of that racket and they had ties to Dr Luncheon.

Dr Luncheonwaspartofa political system that sold this country’s wealth out He stayed silent as the resource plundering and massive corruption was going on within Guyana’s political leadership that decimated the poor of this country No wonderhereceivedaccolades from Raphael Trotman, the same politician who put a sword to Guyanese neck by signing the oil contract and votedtowaiveExxon’staxes

ThePNClaudedDr Luncheon for speaking out against the phantom squad, but neither he, the PNC nor their apologists mentioned, the phantom squad that was created as a response to armedandviolentgangsthat raped,robbed,andmurdered Guyanese with impunity

creating a national crisis in Guyana.

I never heard Luncheon, nor the PNC giving any sympathy to the countless victims of these violent robberies, their mouths only opened when police sent someofthesebanditstotheir maker Being someone whose close family member was murdered by armed and violent robbers who broke into their home, what Luncheon, the PNC, and the so-calledjusticeactivistscall extra-judicial killings, I call good policing Luncheon never fought for Guyanese rightfulshareoftheirwealth, for if he did maybe there wouldn’tbephantomsquads and armed violent bandits if all Guyanese got their rightfulshareoftheirwealth.

It’s funny in Guyana whenever a politician leaves office for whatever reason, theygetaccoladesfromMPs of all parties as being championsofGuyana’spoor and working class; yet their policies, however,createmore

poor and working-class Guyanese rather than less Whenever MP Gail Teixeira leaves office she will get accoladeslikeagoddessfrom PPPsupportersandfromboth PNCandPPPMPs Yet,sheis currentlyplayinghardballwith theAPAAmerindians in their current fight for their Godgiven land rights at Chinese Landing Village I cannot achieve what Dr Luncheon has achieved academically nor can I like him, ascend into the Guyanese political arena.

I would never deny him or any other departed soul, therighttorestinpeace,but forthosewhotookanoathto represent the vulnerable, the voiceless and victims and cannotdeliver,Iwilljointhe few who have chosen to speak for the vulnerable, the voiceless and victims that havesufferedfromGuyana’s politics, so ex-MPs, current MPs and their mouthpieces, takenote.

Yourstruly, R.David

ParikaStelling:havewe grownsoaccustomedto degradation,backwardness?

DEAREDITOR, Irememberaslongback as the late sixties and early seventies traversing the Parika Ferry Stelling to and from Anna Regina where I lived with my parents and attendedschool.

Even though not what could be described as decent accommodation there was a large, enclosed passenger waiting area for those traveling up and down the largeEssequiboRiver

It was, to say the least, adequate for the times since it provided shelter from the elements, seating and decent sanitaryfacilities

If my mathematical skills serve me right and for emphasis that was approximately56yearsago.

Having not visited this beautiful Cinderella Country for such a protracted time and wishing to reconnect with old friends and family, my wife and I ventured on this much anticipated trip twomonthsago

To our shock and utter disgust, instead of being pleasantly surprised by a new modern facility, we were confronted with a dilapidated structure ten times worse than it was 56

yearsago.

W i t h o u t a n y exaggeration this structure [not a stalling] is likely to collapseatanytime.

The ticketing booth is a small section of a cramped area where a bench is situated for passenger seating, and which provides access to an obnoxious smellingareacalledtoilets. This cramped socalled passenger waiting area could only seat about tenpeople

Yet hundreds if not thousands utilize this port on a daily basis including hundredsofvehicles

This translates to millions of dollars in revenue per week for the operators.

So, the obvious follow-upquestionmustbe where all the billions from thisoperationandtheannual Government allocations have gone over these years. Mostcommuterswhoarenot travelling in a vehicle have to stand in another dilapidated section of the structure in proximity to the river,exposedtothehotsun and/orrain.

P a s s e n g e r s a n d vehicles dangerously jostle for access space from the structure’s entrancetotheferries.

Sons-in-law of former Presidents doing the right thing

DEAREDITOR,

Many planks along the walkway cum driveway are either loose or missing posing imminent dangertoboth Parika is the gateway to one of Guyana’s richest regions,yetthisentranceisa nationaldisgrace.

T h e s a f e t y o f commuters, vehicles and drivers is jeopardized every day at this neglected port.

If there is an accident, injury, or loss of life, one day who would or could be heldculpable?

Meanwhile there is talk of another ferry to supplement the two Chinese boats but no mentionofanewStelling.

To add insult toinjury thereisnorunningwateror toiletpaperinthetoiletson theseboats.

It is obvious also that they are not properly cleanedanddisinfected I dread for the females who are forced to use them during the twohourpluslongjourney

Maybe as a country and as a people, we have become accustomed to not only mediocrity but d e g r a d a t i o n a n d backwardness.

Yours truly, Daniel Dacosta

Pleased with fogging operations

DEAREDITOR, Recently on social platforms, a video was circulating with a woman’s voice complaining of the fogging machine and foolishlyclaimingthat‘they’ wantedtokillthemout.

In her case, ignorance is bountiful,andIdohopethat herstupiditydoesn’tspread. It’s no secret that we have a situation presently with dengue fever and it is being spreadbymosquitoes.

Presently,alotofpeople visit the hospitals with

complaints of symptoms relatedtodenguefever

Editor, at approximately 8 pm on Tuesday, the fogging machine passed around my area, Uitvlugt, and the scent seems to have given me a headache, but I wouldn’t complain, because I know it’s the protection of ourhealth.

Would have been good if the residents were warned so they could have taken precautionary measures, especially for kids and babies. But we

“Wemustall,regardless of political affiliation, work togetherto improveservices tocommunities.Thereareno winners when communities and public assets are neglectedorfallintodecay I offer a hand of friendship and support to all Local Government bodies. Central Government stands as a partner in development ” Resounding and resolute words from a remarkable President Dr Mohammed I r f a a n A l i , a s h e unswervingly implored the new batch of sworn in mayors and their deputies to puttheinterestofthepeople andnationfirstandcomeon b o a r d w i t h h i s Administration’s aggressive developmentalagenda.

Many had debunked the formerPNCadministrationfor their monstrosities and atrocities during their 20152020tenure,moreso,whenthe Party was tasked as being a caretaker government only and restricted in dealing with financial transactions On the contrary, they went on a “holiday spree” giving out lands to their cronies and wheelinganddealingwiththe nation’s assets One of the early dissenters was former MinisterofBusiness,Dominic Gaskin, ex- President Granger‘s son-in-law, who wasveryadamantandrefused to be influenced by the

skullduggeries of the PNC Government

Mr Gaskincouldnothide thetruthbyremainingquietly and politely, ‘while our country gets hijacked, ridiculed and torn apart’In a March 2020 message to his colleagues,heremindedthem that they were not elected to remain in office forever and theyneedto,“levelwithyour supporters and start directing your energies towards becoming a credible opposition party in time for 2025”Hefurtherstatedwhat was as clear as daylight, ‘supporters of the APNU+AFCweremisledinto believing that the coalition hadwontheelection ’ Since the PPP/C Governmenttookofficethree years ago, President Ali and his Cabinet members have committed themselves in words, deeds and actions to dedicatetheirresourcefulness tohelpbuildabetterGuyana and remove the stigma of negativity, distrust and corruptionwhichplaguedthe nation under the PNC’s devious reign from 2015 to 2020

No wonder shortly after PresidentAli was sworn into office on 5th August 2020, Guyana was honored with a visit from then United States Secretary of States, Mr Mike Pompeo From day one, the PPP/C Government has been working assiduously to

improve living conditions in Guyana and to repair the international image of the country, besmirched by the callousPNCgovernance

It is no small task for Guyana to earn and maintain therespectoftheUnitedStates andforthesecondtimeduring thesameGovernment,tohost theSecretaryofStates InJuly 2023, Mr Anthony Blinken stated in his remarks to President Ali, “The United States appreciates the increasingly significant role that Guyana is playing in addressingregionalandindeed global issues: a leader on the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights; and, of course,startinginJanuary,one of the new term members of the United Nations Security Council.”

The country is globally recognized as the world’s fastest growing economy withaGDPwhichincreased by 100% over the past two years.

Inheriting a bankrupt economy from the wasteful PNC Government for the secondtime,OutsourceAsia had this to say about the PPP/C management of the country’s finance, “Powered by the rapid economic growth,PresidentAlihasled Guyana through a period of rapidtransformation,andthe Government has laid out a masterplanforrapid

(Continuedonpage06)

cannot expect everything to beflawless.

After a while, I ventured outside to see how effective the fogging was and discovered not a mosquitobiting

I even asked my neighbor, and the same observation was expressed. I’mindeedpleasedaboutthe operationandknowitwould be helpful to many Kudos to whoever is managing this operation.

Respectfully, SahadeoBates

PNC’s General Council meeting, is something sinister afoot?

DEAREDITOR, I’ve noted a Demerara Wavesonlinenewsreporton August 7th, 2023 which quotesanunnamedPeople’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) official as giving a lackoffundingasthereason for the one-year delay in the holding of a meeting of the party’s second highest decision-making body If this report is true, I find it hardtobelieve.

In a Demerara Waves article on July 27th, 2023, it

wasreportedthatMr Norton was questioned on whether or not his party received fundingfromtheMohameds and whether it would accept the same in the future Norton refused to say whether or not the party would accept future donations, stating that “it was not wise to name party financiers as they risk being punishedbythegovernment inareassuchastheawardof contracts.” By Mr Norton’s own admission, the PNC is

not short of donors. One is, therefore,lefttowonderhow the party is now unable to mobilize the $2.4M needed to host this critical General Councilmeeting.

Is there something sinisterafoot?Issomeonein the party’s leadership afraid of having their performance so far being subjected to the scrutiny of the wide membership?

Sincerely,

RyanNewton Plaisance.

Youths participate in three-day advocacy forum in observance of International Youth Day

Decision makers on Wednesday w e r e encouraged to involve youths and children in climatepolicyformationand action at the opening of a three-day Advocacy and YouthForum,atthePegasus H o t e l , K i n g s t o n , Georgetown.

The three-day forum is being held by the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) in collaboration with UNICEF Guyana in observation of International YouthDay2023.

This year International Youth Day will be observed onAugust12andisthemed, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.”

Deliveringremarksatthe openingceremonywasArea Representative of UNICEF, Nicolas Pron, who indicated that the forum seeks to train over150youngpeoplefrom across Guyana in the thematic areas and in advocacy

Pron explained that the forum comes at a pivotal timewhenUNICEFGuyana

is preparing for a few international conferences like ‘Conference of the Parties’ (COP) 28 in Dubai and the 4th International ‘ConferenceonSmallIsland Developing States’ (SIDS) inAntigua,amongothers,to seek solutions for the future of young people in the face of the ever-increasing impactsofclimatechange.

He noted that while children and young people are faced with many disasters, humanitarian crises and the ever-growing impacts of climate change, there are interventions that can be considered to reduce suchimpacts.

“Children and young people are not only victims [ofclimatechange],butalso themostimportantactorsfor sustainable change,” Pron said.

He further encouraged decision makers in Guyana toincludechildrenandyouth in the processes for designingandimplementing climate policy and action and consider including young representatives in the nationaldelegationstothese

conferences.

M e a n w h i l e , Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Newell Dennison lauded the threeday initiative and encouraged youths to work together for the common good of youths and children inGuyana.

He said, “Regardless of

what you do or wherever your interest lies, as youths, you must have a common languagethatyoucanuseto moderateyourexchangeson theseimportantissuesofthe rights of children in our communities.”

Several youths at the event expressed their excitement to present and participate in the three-day event.

This year’s Advocacy and Youth forum will cover discussions on a range of topics including Climate Change, Entrepreneurship and Youth, Life Skills, Mental Health, and Youth and Immunization. It will conclude onAugust 11 with a panel discussion and mini exhibition by the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinatorincollaboration with the UN Guyana Volunteers.

Also inattendanceatthe event were British High Commissioner to Guyana, H.E Jane Miller, Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Mark Berman, Mexican Ambassador,

Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo, Chairperson of the RCC, Aleema Nasir, Member of Parliament,AmanzaWaltonDesir, Miss India Guyana, and Child rights Advocates, amongothers.

Sons-in-lawofformer...

Frompage05 development and transformation. Moreover, they have demonstrated our ability to work tirelesslytomakethisvisionarealitysothat citizens can reap the benefits as soon as possible.”

Despite winning over 80% of the NDCs’ and municipalities’seats at the recent Local Government Election, the ever-simple President Ali allows his humbleness and humaneness to override any ego and reach out to each leader, not identifying with any indifferences but embracing them with fraternityandtolookeachpersonstraightin the eyes, extending his warm hands in friendship The President’s comradery reflectshisgenuinenessandthosepresentdid well to reciprocate and “shake the hand that shooktheworld.”

The PPP/C Government is laboriously makingperpetualoutreachestoallGuyanese. PrimeMinisterMarkPhillipsrecentlystated attheNationalAssembly,“”We(PPP/C)have aholisticplanthatwehavebeendeliveringto

the people of Guyana. We are a peoplecentered government,” “Unfortunately, the entire opposition cannot keep abreast with what is happening around them. But those whohaveeyestoseewillsee,andthosewho have ears to hear will hear The people are seeing, and the people are hearing, and the people have started to ignore you (The Opposition),”

How appropriate that during the recent EmancipationDaycelebration,nootherthan Dr RichardVan-WestCharles,son-in-lawof former President Forbes Burnham, should pay tribute to President Irfaan Ali! He said, “Guyana under the leadership of President Ali is currently on an upward trajectory of building a strong future…We have multiple ethnicities, and we have in our motto, one people, one nation, one destiny and the president’s programmatic framework of one Guyana.Thatisimportantforusbecauseitis buildinganation.”

Yoursrespectfully, JaiLall

Some of the youths at the Advocacy and Youth Forum 2023 event.

Area Representative of UNICEF, Nicolas Pron giving remarks at the opening ceremony of the three-day Advocacy and Youth Forum 2023 event.

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PPPmustendsickening ritualofrushinglaws throughParliament

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The tendency of the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration to try to ram important petroleum legislation through the House in the dead of night, while the Guyanese people sleep, should be a subject of sociological study.

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Thieves and vagabonds roam at night. So, what is it that the Bharrat Jagdeo administration has to hide from the scrutiny of the people of this country, about their oil resources?

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Time will tell.

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NationalAssemblyapprovesover$900M moreforLinden,Lethempowercompanies

DPI – The National

Assembly on Friday approved more than $927 million to further support the Linden Electricity Company in Region 10, and t h e L e t h e m P o w e r Company,inRegionNinein the provision of stable electricity Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr AshniSinghsaidthatthe amounts provided are to offset the increase in fuel prices and consumption, as well as the increased cost of delivery He made the s t a t e m e n t d u r i n g Wednesday's sitting of the National Assembly during debateson the government's request for $61 billion supplementary funding, whichisexpectedtofinance additional development priorities Some $663 million is being sought for the Linden Electricity Company and over $264 million is expected to support the Lethem Power Company.

“ T h e a d d i t i o n a l appropriations that are being sought reflect additional costs that are

being incurred as a result of b o t h i n c r e a s e d consumption, increased fuel costs,andadditionalsupport for things like maintenance at these two companies to ensure that both Linden and Lethem continue to receive electricity as we have committed to delivering to them,”heexplained.

These sums represent a current best estimate of the companies' additional financial requirements for theremainderoftheyear

“We will remain closely engaged with the respective companies to ensure that they continue to manage their operations efficiently We will also remain closely e n g a g e d w i t h t h e communities,” the minister

assured.While pointing out thattheseallocationsarenot directly related to a possible reduction in the rate of electricity, the finance minister noted that government continues to invest heavily in improving electricity production and generation He highlighted several ongoing projects aimed at achieving this including the Gas to Energy Project, the rehabilitation of t h e M o c o M o c o Hydropower plant, and the installation of solar farms in Linden, in keeping with the Low Carbon Development Strategy “The task of improving increasing electricity supply and improvingthequalityofthat electricity and the cost, is a

task that government has applied itself to across Guyana, including Regions Nine and Ten,” the senior ministertoldtheHouse. These funds for the L i n d e n E l e c t r i c i t y Company and the Lethem Power Company form part of a $5, 093, 359 500 amount being sought for the Office of the Prime Minister to advance power generation and data management activities The allocation is also expected to fund the provision of additional resources to support the Gas to Power project,aswellastosupport the expanded work programme of the National D a t a M a n a g e m e n t Authority(NDMA).

Probe launched into rape of 11-year-old girl – Investigators

The alleged rape of an 11year-old girl by three boys –two weeks ago- is being investigated by the Guyana Police Force (GPF). This is according to a police investigator

On Monday, Kaieteur News reported that the 11year-old girl was allegedly raped by three boys' at a community center ground, after leaving her home for lessons. The child's father, during an interview with this publication, expressed dissatisfaction with the way the case is being handled, and accused the GPF of dragging itsfootonthematter

However, when contacted on Wednesday by Kaieteur News an investigator said that members of the Force met with the child's family and assuredthatthematterisbeing

“Iwentbytheshoparound the corner drinking two beers when my sister-in-law called me and said come your daughter get rape,” he told Kaieteur News. He said the security guard at the community center ground had reportedly held the three boys but subsequently released them.

“So I rushed over there, whenIreachtherethesecurity guard telling me she had to let themgo…”

The man said that he was tempted to take matters into hisownhandsbut“hadtocool myself down” The angry fathersaidwhenhereturnedto his home he was unable to consolehisdaughter

“She didn't tell me what happened she told my mother what they did to her,” he told Kaieteur News while noting

investigated.

The investigator told Kaieteur News that the matter involvesfourminors.

The victim's father disclosed that he was out doing work on the day his daughter was allegedly raped. “I went doing some work for my friend so I reached home just after 2 (14:00 hours) and I didn't see my daughter so I asked my mother for her,” he said, adding that his mother informed him that his daughter had left home for lessons.

Themanexplainedthatthe girl's lessons are located in the samevillagewheretheylive.

K a i e t e u r N e w s understands that boys took the 11-year-old girl to an area at the center ground, where they allegedly raped her Reports are that a woman, who was takingherdaughtertolessons, alerted a security guard and managedtosavethegirl.

According to the child's father, after he returned home, he subsequently visited a nearby shop when he was informed of the devastating news.

that the matter was reported to the police and a medical examinationwasdone.

The angry and frustrated father alleges that since the police report, the matter has been moving at an extremely slowpace.

He disclosed that one of the boys who allegedly raped his daughter has relatives who areintheGPF

“They look like they in on it, like they want to hide what happened to my daughter… all I want is justice for my daughter,Iwantthemboysget send to boys school [New Opportunity Corps (NOC)],” themanadded.

He said, “They done prey on my child, I don't want them to do it to somebody else's child,”thefathersaid.

The girl's father told KaieteurNewsthathesawone of the alleged rapists who also residesinhisvillage.

“He watching me all scared thinking I would do him something I didn't though, I want the law handle it because I have to be around to provide for my daughters,” themandeclared.

Linden Electricity Company (DPI)

The President’s visit to China was a major diplomatic failure

The President’s Official Visit to China turned out to be a damp squib. The visit yielded minimal tangible outcomes, raising concerns aboutwhethertherehasbeen a90degreesturninrelations betweenGuyanaandChina.

During the Jagdeo presidency, China had emerged as one of the c o u n t r y ’ s m a j o r development partner The Chinese presence and investment in Guyana expanded significantly Chinabegantoplayamajor roleonfundingdevelopment works in Guyana, including the building of roads, an international conference center,therenovationstothe Cheddi Jagan International Airport and the Skeldon Sugar Factory A Chinese construction firm was supposed to build the Hydroelectric Facility The Chinese also were given the contractforthe‘OneLaptop perFamily’initiative. Itwas a Chinese firm that built the Marriot Hotel Chinese businesses expanded in Guyanaduringthisperiod.

But these projects were a l l e n m e s h e d i n controversies. There were allegations of backroom dealings.TheSkeldonSugar Factory became a white elephant.The ‘One LapTop per Family’Project was not without its critics and cost overruns and delays in the CJIA project blemished the imageofChina.

The incoming David Grangeradministrationreset these relations with greater

emphasis on bilateral engagements China gave significant support to the Granger administration in improving national security and education. But perhaps the greatest coup, especially considering American concerns, was Guyana’s decisiontosignontotheBelt andRoadInitiative.

By then the new Cold War between the USA and Chinawasinfullbloom.The US Secretary of State came toGuyanaandmadestrident criticisms of China, signaling clearly that the United States was not predisposed towards strong relations between Guyana andUSA.

Immediately, a thaw in relations with China d e v e l o p e d

Correspondingly, Guyana beganemphasizingrelations with the EXIM Bank of the USA rather than the EXIM BankofChina. Itisbelieved that there is a person within the Foreign Ministry whose role is to downgrade relations between Guyana andChina.

The decision of Ali to accept an Official Visit to China represented an opportunitytoresetrelations with China and to conclude major agreements of cooperation The Visit howeverwasbadlymanaged from the Guyana side with the Guyanese Head of State goingtoChinawithagender imbalanced private sector team, instead of a strong corps of government

Ministers and public

Dem boys seh...

officials to push bilateral agreements.

The visit was a major strategic blunder on the part of Irfaan Ali. China is the only country with the resources to assist Guyana pushitsdevelopmentagenda atthistime.

Sufficient groundwork was not laid for the President’s visit to China. Thistendstosuggestareturn to the continuance of the decentralized decisionmakingoftheJagdeoera.

As a result of the lack of groundwork, there were no substantial outcomes to the President’s visit to China when compared with the potential benefits that could havebeenreaped.Youdonot go to China and come back empty-handed. The signing of a MOU is a waste of the time and energy of the Chinese government and a missedopportunity

Instead of a private sector team, the President should have walked with a high-levelteamofMinisters and public officials. . While involving the private sector can be beneficial for exploring investment opportunities, it is equally important for the government to be fully engaged in discussions related to bilateral agreements, development projects,andpolicymatters.

Also glaring was the absenceofashoppinglistof projectstobefinancedbythe Chinese government. The President should have returned from China with

Guyana gat stores weh discount deh pun ice

We gat some

businesses in Guyana never heard of a discount. Demneveroffera‘Sale’as yet. Asking the owners of these stores fuh tek off somethingfromdepriceof anitemislikeashowdown athighnoon.

Yuh step into one ah demshops,yuhfacefullah hopeandyuhwalletfullah wishes. Yuh spot de thing yuh been eyeing fuh months, and yuh start schemin’ ‘bout how to get dat sweet, sweet deal. Yuh muster up all yuh courage and let out de big ask: “Eh

bai,yuhcouldaknockoffa lil’piece from de price fuh meh?”

Dem business owners, dey gat dis here look, like yuh just asked dem fuh de moon and de stars. Dem donetrainedindeartof“No Discount”–Deycomeback at yuh with lines like “We pricealreadylow,man”and “We nah mekking nouttin offofthisitem.”

Yuh could beg from now to never, the owners are not going to take off a dime off of the price. Even o n t h e d a y a f t e r

Thanksgiving, wah Guyanese now celebrating,

firm commitments for these projects. The President did not leverage the visit to advance his development agenda and particularly his infrastructural projects which could have been furthered under the Belt and RoadInitiative.

Instead, the lukewarm JointStatement,issuedatthe conclusion of the Visit, merely applauded the Belt and Road Initiative. Guyana indicated its willingness to discuss and conclude the Joint Action Plan of the

Initiative. China has read correctly the smoke signals. It knows that Guyana is so afraid of theAmericans that it is threading cautiously in itsrelationswithChina.

The lackluster visit has manifold implications for Guyana. It has the potential to undermine Guyana’s traditional standing as the mainpartnerofChinainthe Caribbean And this can affect Guyana’s ability to secure future financing for itsdevelopmentfromChina.

The mere signing of a

M e m o r a n d u m o f Understanding (MOU) after a week-long visit, coupled with an underwhelming delegation, can be interpreted as a thawing of relations between Guyana and China (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

you can’t squeeze a discountoutofthem.

Dem no-discount businesses, dem ah different breed altogether! Dem people got a grip tighter than dem taxman clutching on to yuh last lil’ cent.

As for “Buy one, Get one free” dem never hrear about dat! Stock clearing saleisararityanddoesonly happen when some item is not selling, like dem XXX jerseys. De only time some places giving discount is whendeshelflifeofdeitem abouttoexpire. Talkhalf.Leffhalf

Govt. reach settlement with buyers of repossessed Peter's Hall lands –Dr.AshniSingh

The Government of Guyana has r e a c h e d a settlementwiththebuyersof lands located at Peter's Hall, East Bank of Demerara (EBD) by allowing them to pay the rightful market price for the prime commercial properties acquired under the A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration.

This explanation was provided to the National Assembly on Wednesday by Senior Minister within the Office of the President with the Responsibility for Finance,Dr AshniSingh.Dr Singh was at the time responding to a question asked by APNU+AFC Member of Parliament (MP) AnnetteFerguson.

After the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) took office in August 2020, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) received three files from the Attorney General for the investigation of leases of several acres of

prime state land at Peters Hall, which were done without any valuation, public advertisement, or Cabinetdecisions.

The Opposition MP raised questions regarding the sale of the lands by referencing comments of Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC that made headlines in the Stabroek News.

Citing the article under the caption: “Land repossessed by government at Peter's Hall resold at market value,” Ferguson queried the details of the sale.“Can the Honourable MinisterinformtheNational Assembly at what prices the lands were sold at and to whom?”

In response, Dr Singh said the government had reachedasettlementwiththe original buyers of the lands even after the government hadrepossessedit.

“The list of buyers includes Jian Fen Yu which acquired 18.07 acres at sold price $617 99 million; Construction Equipment Inc. that bought 4.65 acres

$159 million; Puran Brothers Disposal Inc. got 9.94 acres at $339.9 million; Source One Oil and Gas Marine Supplies that acquired 4.6 acres at $156.6 million, T&R Waste Managementhas4.9acresat a market value of $167.6 million and Starr Imports Trading acquired 4.7acres at $161.4million.”

Pressed further on the procedure used by the National Industrial & Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) to select

the buyers, Dr Singh noted all of the aforementioned purchasers had already acquired lands under the previousgovernment.

He explained “We inherited a list of people that havebeensoldlandswithout any due process and any administrative process followed …There was no s e l e c t i o n b y t h i s government, in fact this administration inherited a list of people who had been soldthoselands”

Dr. Singh explained that

even though the correct procedure was not used in the land acquisition process w i t h t h e p r e v i o u s government, there was already standing agreements withthepurchasers.

Asaresult,DrSinghsaid t h a t t h e c u r r e n t administration settled with several of the buyers. He lamented that it was the APNU+AFC administration that failed to dispose of the land using the correct procedure.

“The records will reflect thatin2018undertheAPNU +AFCadministration…they granted leases on the East Bank of Demerara including those at Peter's Hall. These leases had several defects that granted the lessees the rights to sell or assign their rights to third parties, some of whom did exactly that making substantial profits.

In fact, that was the main defect that these sale or assigning of lands could be

done without the approval of anyStateauthority.”

He continued, “It would also be public record that these lands were part of a series of land giveaways which happened 'while the sun was setting,' on the then APNU+AFC government,” hesaid.

Dr Singh said that when the current government took officein2020itreviewedthe transactions and made efforts to settle with the parties involved or r e g u l a r i z e t h e s e transactions.

“We approached the persons in possession of these lands. Some agreed to relinquish recognizing the due process was not followed, some decided to go to court…However, the names of the persons that I just mentioned are those that who agreed to a settlement withthegovernment.

These persons agreed to meeting a settlement with the Government of Guyana after efforts were made to regularize the sale of lands d o n e u n d e r t h e APNU+AFC,”heexplained.

Dr Singh said that there are currently a number of matters engaging the attention of the court because of the same issue. Among those taken to court over the sale of state lands at Peter's Hall were Attorneyat-Law, James Bond, and former acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NICIL, Colvin HeathLondon.

Fire service assessing schools countrywide to improve safety measures

–Min.Manickchand

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand

DPI - The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is currently a s s e s s i n g s c h o o l s countrywide to ensure that fire prevention mechanisms areinplace.Thiswasrevealed by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand on Wednesday as the Committee

of Supply considered estimatesofsome$3.4billion fortheeducationsector

“We are working with the Guyana Fire Service. They areassessingschoolsandthen saying to us 'This is what you need',andthatishowweare

(Continued on page 16)

APNU+AFC MP, Annette Ferguson

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

Wanted man captured at

Issano Landing …confesses to killing girlfriend's ex-boyfriend

Twenty-six-year-old Eliuge Allicock, who was wanted for the murder of his girlfriend's exboyfriend, was on Tuesday apprehended at Issano Landing, Mazaruni River, Region Seven and has confessedtothecrime.

On Monday, a wanted bulletin was issued for Allicock, of Hubu Parika, East Bank Essequibo and Issano Landing, for the murder of 39-year-old Quincy Calvin Nelson, a miner of West Indian Housing Scheme, Bartica. In an update, the police revealed that Allicock was apprehended, told of the allegation and cautioned. He subsequently admitted tocommittingthecrime.

According to the Police, a 22-year-old female cook of Tasserene Village, Middle Mazaruni River, and the suspect shares a relationship. The woman once shared a relationship with Nelson who was fatally stabbed early Saturday morning at Honey Camp Landing, Region Seven.Nelson had intervened and attempted to save the woman from being assaulted by the suspect.

The woman told

investigators that on Friday night,sheandAllicockwentto Honey Camp Landing, where

‘Saw Man’ remanded for killing shopkeeper

Fabian Smith called 'Saw Man' was onMondayremandedtoprisonfor the killing of a shopkeeper at Surinamo at “Mer Meria” Backdam, Middle Mazaruni River, Region Seven when he appearedattheBarticaMagistrates'Court.

Smith was charged with manslaughter Hewasnotrequiredtopleadtotheindictable charge when he appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert. He was remanded until August25,2023.

Dead: Quincy Nelson

they consumed Guinness and becameintoxicated.

She said around 01:00 hours, they then went to Clive Smith's Shop and continued to drink Guinness. However, while at the shop, Nelson approached the woman and they had a conversation According to the Police, this annoyed the suspect, resulting in him grabbing the woman and assaulting her. Nelson intervenedandascuffleensued betweenhimandAllicock.

During the scuffle, the suspect drew a knife and dealt Nelson two stabs to his chest area. Nelson was rushed to the Issano Health Outpost but was pronounceddeaduponarrival.

Smith is accused of stabbing Andrew Harris of Surinamo Backdam, Region Seven, to death between July 31 andAugust 1.InvestigatorslearntthatHarrisworkedasa shopkeeper at Surinamo Landing, Mazaruni Riverbuthadspentthelasttendaysofhislife working together with Smith on a newly constructed “MerMeria”backdam.

The owner of shop told police that Smith called her on August 1 and informed her that he had found Harris dead at theshop.

Police were alerted and when they arrived at the scene Harris' body was in a slouching position on a bench.

There was blood on his jersey and on the floor close to where his body wasfound.

“ D e t e c t i v e s examined the body and observed a stab wound, about 3 inches in width, to thevictim'supperleftchest,” ice stated. Smith was subsequentlyarrested.

Providence man caught with cocaine near CJIA jailed for 4 years

Christopher Douglas, a resident of Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was on Wednesday sentenced to four years in prison and fined G$39M for trafficking 57lbs ofcocaine.

Douglaspleadedguiltytothechargewhen he made his first appearance at the Diamond Magistrates' Court before Magistrate Sunil Scarce On Sunday, the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) reported that while conducting a routine operation at a cargo company adjacent to the Cheddi Jagan InternationalAirport (CJIA), they intercepted a motorcar driven by Douglas.Asearch of the motorcar led to the discovery of twenty-three (23) brick-like parcels of suspected cocaine and a 9mm pistol and a magazine with 14 matchingrounds.Thenarcoticstestedpositive for cocaine, weighting approximately 26.016 kg (almost 57.35 lbs.), with a street value of approximatelyG$27million.

…finedG$39M

Jailed for trafficking cocaine, Christopher Douglas

Captured: Eliuge Allicock

Remanded: Fabian Smith called 'Saw Man'

Dead: Shopkeeper, Andrew Harris

Govt. confident in meeting

GuySuCo's production targets

...as House approves $5.6B for Agriculture Ministry

American University launches research center to determine root causes of social issues in Guyana

The American University of Peace Studies Inc. on Wednesday launched a 'CenterofResearchandStrategicthinking'to determine the root causes of a number social issues affecting Guyanese and hindering the country'sdevelopment. Thelaunchwasheld at the university's location at the corner of Sheriff and Akawini Street, Section K Campbellville,Georgetown.

Speaking at the launch, President of the University,Dr EtonSimondisclosedthatthe centerwillbedoinginnovativeresearch.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday told the National Assembly with great confidence that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) will meet its production target of 60,000 tons by yearend.

He made this announcement as the House considered an additional $1.5 billion for the entity, after being allocated $4 billion in this year's Budget. Mustapha told the National Assembly that the additional sum would help the sugar sector meet its production target by yearend.

“We are open and very optimistic that we will reach that 60,000 tons target. Next year start, it will be around 100,000 tons,” the Minister reported. According to statistics from the Bank of Guyana (BoG), sugar production has been declining over the past three years. The 2022 Report explains that in 2020, 88,890 tons were produced. However in 2021 and 2022, production totaled 58,025 tonsand47,049tonsrespectively

Even with the significant decline in sugar

production, Mustapha was pleased to highlight the 14 percent increase in sugar productionrecordedsofarfortheyear

He noted that the additional $1.5 billion requested would assist in the development and rehabilitation of the Albion, Blairmont, RoseHallandUitvlugtEstates.

In addition to the extra funds approved in the NationalAssembly for the Guyana Sugar Corporation, the House also approved an extra $2.5 billion for the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA); $437.8 million for the National Research Institute and $25.4 million for the Guyana Marketing Corporation. It was explained that the resources would support the Ministry's expanded work programme.As part of the total$5.6billionmoregrantedtotheMinistry, it also received $4 billion more for urgent drainage and irrigation works in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and 10 and $100 million more to facilitate pasture development by the Guyana Livestock DevelopmentAuthority(GLDA).

“And this type of research is gonna transform Guyana” he said while adding that it will geared at providing factual data to inform policy making at the government level.

According to Simon, one of the ways the center will be collecting data is through poll samplingsurveythatwillbelaunchedsoon.

“We want to know what you think, we want to know what the people are saying so that we have that information from the people, and when we collect that data from thepeople,wewillbeabletopublishitsoyou can know our findings and have the information to make critical decisions,” Simonsaid.

Meanwhile, Senior Lecturer and Administrator of the University, Nadine Ramsaransaidthemainpurposeofthecenter istoidentifytherootcauseofproblemsfaced in the different sectors and present them to relevantauthoritiesinthegovernmentandfix them.

“What our research center will basically do is to find out what is causing the downfall in the health care system, present that to the appropriate persons, and let them fix that,” Ramsaransaid.

Health care is not the only issue that the center will be researching but its data collection will also cover, customer service, environmentalandeconomicissuesaffecting thecountry

“When we do get to the underlying problems we will be able to solve the problems,”sheadded.

Ramsaran noted that the Research Center will also focus too on the root causes behind high incidences of crime as well as fatal accidentratesinthecountry

The research team will be made up of students from the university and professionalsintheresearchsector

Once data are collected, the findings will be published on the center's social media pages and website. Reports will be compiled as well and the Center will seek to regularly engagethepressonitsfindings.

UNHCR donates generators and ESL resources to Education Ministry for migrant and hinterland students

The Ministry of Education on Wednesday received several items from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to assist migrant students and schools in the hinterland regions.The items handed over included 16 generators and a wide variety of English as a Second Language (ESL) resources. The generators will be handed over to selected schools in the hinterland so that electronic learning devices can be powered and utilized to enhance and improve the teaching and learningexperience.

The ESL resources included ESL workbooks, dictionaries, board games, exercise books, art books, stationery supplies and sports sets for cricket, volleyball andfootball.

Theitemswerehandedoverby UNHCRHeadofOffice,Mr Henri – Sylvain Yakara accompanied by UNHCR's Assistant Education Officer,Ms.DanielleDipoo.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mr Alfred King received the items on the Ministry's behalf He was accompanied by the Deputy Chief Education Officer for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development (AHED), Mr Marti

DeSouza and Coordinator of the Risk Management and Migrant Support Section (RM&MSS) of the Ministry of Education, Mrs. RampattiePrashad-Bisnauth.

Mr. King noted that the Ministry is implementing many modifications to cater to migrant students in schools. He said that thisisnotlimitedtothecurriculum but includes the administration of the National Grade Six Assessment whereby the test questions are translated into Spanish. He said that the students have the option to answer the

questions in either English or Spanishwithoutbeingpenalized.

Further, he said that a lot is happeninginHinterlandeducation as contracts have been signed for the construction of new schools in Karasabai, Hosororo, Kwebana and the rebuilding of the Northwest Secondary School. He said that the new facilities will serve to deliver a higher quality of education to students. He said that

the Ministry's distance education tools, the Guyana Learning ChannelandEdYouFmcontinueto expandsothatalloftheHinterland regions can benefit from 100 per cent coverage Both UNHCR's representatives expressed their willingness to continue collaborating with the Ministry of Education on its programmes to positively impact the education system.

th Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha at the 67 sitting, Twelfth Parliament

President of the American University of Peace Studies, Dr. Eton Simon speaking at the Research Center's launch on Wednesday.

GNBS hosts fifth successful blood drive

PM Phillips calls on states in Amazon region to find viable solutions to combat environmental challenges -At opening of ACTO in Brazil

The Guyana National BureauofStandards(GNBS) onWednesdayhosteditsfifth Annual Blood Drive in collaboration with the National Blood Transfusion Services (NBTS) The activity was conducted in the Quality Hall of the GNBS, National Exhibition Site, Sophia,Georgetown.

Head of the Marketing Department at the GNBS, Mr Syeid Ibrahim stated that the drive was hosted as part of the Bureau's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

“This was the fifth blood drive we have hosted in an effort to give back to the community and supporting those who are desperately in need of these donations. We also encourage others to get onboard and donate blood. Givingaunitcansavealife,” Mr Ibrahimsaid.

Meanwhile,DonorRoom Supervisor at the NBTS, Ms.

Tonza Younge-Bamfield expressed gratitude to the GNBS for facilitating the blood drive and commended the twenty (20) persons who showeduptodonate.

According to Ms Bamfield, “every unit counts and giving blood not only saves a life, it gives tremendous health benefits. Every day we are in need of bloodandhavingtheseblood drives are very important to us to be able to acquire sufficient quantities and typesforthoseinneed.”

She highlighted the NBTS is grateful to have the GNBS on board and encouraged more people to visit the blood bank and donate.The donors included staff of the GNBS, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), the Competition and C o n s u m e r A f f a i r s Commission (CCAC), the National Exhibition Committee(NEC).

DPI - Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd), the Honourable Mark Phillips, has called on states within the Amazon region to pursue a robust agenda and find viable solutions to combat challenges, underscoring that environmental protection must not translate to the absence of development intherespectivecountries.

Prime Minister Phillips made the remarks at the opening of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) in Belem, the capital of the AmazonstateofPara,Brazil.

TheleadersofeightSouthAmerican nationsthatsharetheAmazonrainforest are a part of the meeting with the objectiveofreachingabroadagreement onpreservingthecriticalregion.

“If we continue on our current trajectory, the prognosis offers no relief in sight. The status quo of the environment is clearly on a downward spiral, and it is in the interest of future generations that a concerted effort be

made to arrest the situation,” he highlighted.

In his address, he underscored the importance of the Amazon rainforest and said it plays an invaluable role in climate flight. The rainforest described globally as a “carbon sink” has the ability to easily absorb pollutants from harshemissions.

AccordingtothePrimeMinister,the challenges of illegal forest activities, deforestation, and forest fires, threaten thedelicateequilibriumofthebasinand the livelihoods of indigenous and other communities. Therefore, the states that are part of the Amazon must bear the responsibility for safeguarding this invaluable natural resource for the benefit of current and future generations,hestressed.

“We must be resolute in our efforts to combat these threats and to ensure that our initiatives under the ACTO cooperation programme have a strong focusonthesustainablemanagementof

forests, forest preservation and forest conservation,”thePrimeMinistersaid.

Phillips reminded the South American leaders of Guyana's dedicationtopreservingandconserving the environment. He emphasised that Guyana is committed to playing its part inthefightagainstclimatechange.

“Inkeepingwithourcommitmentto the sustainable development of our natural resources, Guyana, as an emergingoilstate,continuestodirectits efforts towards the diversification of its energy portfolio to include renewable energysources,”heassured.

IndigenousVoices

Further, the Prime Minister stated that indigenous people have shared a sacredrelationshipwiththelandandthe forest.As he charged leaders to include indigenous people and voices in the developmentprocess,heexplainedthat, “It is therefore imperative that they continuetoplayanintegralpartofthe

(Continuned on page 16)

GPHC's Pathology Department boosted with new equipment and personnel

The Georgetown Public Hospital

C o r p o r a t i o n (GPHC) on Wednesday

announced that it has acquired a state-of-the-art microtome machine and an advanced auto tissue processor that will aid in the advancement of its PathologyDepartment.

Additionally, the hospital announced also that a Lab Manager and another Pathologist have been appointed strengthening the department and expertise, and capacity to handle a higher volume of cases effectively

The GPHC in a press release said that the two innovative technologies haveallowedthedepartment to revolutionize sample processing, reducing the turnaround time from over thirty (30) days to an impressiveseven(7)days.

“These two cutting-edge additions represent a remarkable leap in the efficiency and accuracy of sample processing, enabling our esteemed team of Pathologiststoproviderapid and precise diagnoses. The quicker turnaround time translates to expedited diagnosis, patient care, and ultimately enhances our ability to serve the community with the highest standard of medical excellence,” the hospital explained.

Moreover, as part of GPHC's commitment to continuous improvement, the Pathology Department has made substantial strides i n p e r s o n n e l a n d organizationaldevelopment.

With the personnel expansion, the department underwent a complete restructuring, streamlining workflows and optimizing

resource allocation “The implementation of training programs conducted in collaboration with the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, has ensured that ourstaffisequippedwiththe latest best practices and knowledge in the field,” the releasestated.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPHC, Robbie Rambarran expressed his

enthusiasm about the ongoingeffortstoexpandthe department's scope and improveoverallefficiency H e s a i d , “ O u r commitment to advancing patient care is unwavering. We are continuously exploring avenues for further engagement and advancements in technology to achieve greater efficiency andexpandourservices.”

Donor Room Supervisor, Ms. Tonza Younge Bamfield collecting blood from GNBS staff, Mr. Clifton Franklin

The leaders of eight South American nations that share the Amazon rainforest are a part of the meeting with the objective of reaching a broad agreement on preserving the critical region.

New PathLab Manger, Maricea Comacho-Chandrabose appointed at the department.

WANTED VACANCY

Wanted: Experienced Puri Maker, Cashier, Counter Person, Labourer and Cleaner. Apply at Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts.

One live-in Housekeeper needed to work in Virginia, USA. Ages 30-50 yrs. Call: 592-615-5476/ 845-325-8241.

1 Woodmizer edger Operator wanted. Call: 697-0852.

Looking for a reliable live-in aide for an elderly woman. Call: 686-8051.

Male and female needed to pluck chicken, $3500 per day. Call: 708-4374/ 617-4662.

Live-in Handyman with small family to live and work on Poultry farm, $125,000 per month. Call: 708-4374/ 617-4662.

Wanted! Male & Female workers for packaging pasta and chowmein on the Back Road (Mandela Ave). Call: 611-7839.

Security Officers urgently needed! Must be able to read and write, $350 and $400 hourly. Contact: 603-5140.

Security/ Handyman needed. Contact: 223-5273/223-5274.

One Driver and Personal Assistant needed to work with private company. Call: 6851735.

General live-in Domestic needed. Call: 660-9093.

Cook, Waitress and one part time Driver needed. Call: 6503680.

Farm Workers needed to work at Hauraruni. Call: 6620469.

Porter wanted. Requirement: Valid police clearance. Call: 265-7311 ( Ext 277).

One Domestic worker needed to work 2 times per week at 192, Duncan St Newtown, Kitty. Call: 6493783.

Parliament approves $61B in supplementary funds

Following a 12-hour long debate in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Financial Paper Number Three, totaling $61 billion was approved, taking this year’s Budget to $874 billion.

per, the disaggregated sum of $61,013,184,705 includes $10,181,998,722 and $50,831,185,983 for current and capital projects, respectively.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office.Must have grade 1or 2 Maths and English. Email: techserigy@yahoo.com or Call: 615-9132.

Cleaner, Maintaining Worker, Labourers, Office Assistant and Time Keeping Clerk required. Call: 621-6969, 6157784.

One office Assistant needed. Experience will be an asset. Call: 688-7911.

Sales Clerks, Delivery Clerks, Warehouse Manager & Graphic Designer needed. Apply at: Lens 136 Sheriff Street. Call: 227-2486/ 2271511, lensgy@outlook.com

One Manager for A&S General Store located at Charity, Essequibo. Call: 687-5814.

East Bank Electrical is now hiring Electrical Engineer, Outside Sales Staff & Counter Sales Staff. Call: 604-6394, sales@eastbankelectrical.com

Receptionist, Room Attendant, Laundry Attendant & Security Guard needed at 233, South Road Lacytown. Call: 225-0198.

We are now hiring Counter Attendants @ Dian's Deli, Bar St Kitty. Opening hours 6:30 am-12:00. Call: 621-7862, 225-3700/ 225-6478.

Bulldozers and Excavator Operator needed to work in Interior and Truck Drivers. Call: 696-9854/ 223-7165.

One Cashier needed. Must have English & Maths and previous experience. Apply at mikeswholesaledepot @yahoo.com or at their location.

Experienced Hauler/ Lorry Driver required. Apply at Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St, Bourda.

Experienced Accounts Clerk. Must have passes in Maths, English & Accounts. Apply in person to Alabama Trading.

Experienced Sales girls needed. Apply in person to Alabama Trading at 65 Robb street Bourda.

VACANCY

Male Engineer needed, Must have atleast 10 years experience in road & building construction. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

1 Male Project Supervisor (construction field), ages 35-50 years. Must have atleast 5-8 yrs managerial experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Bobcat & Roller Operators needed. Ages 30 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Truck & Canter Drivers needed. Ages 30 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Diesel Mechanic and Skilled Labourers needed for road construction. Ages 20 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855

Vacancy for a Domestic/ Maid full time or part time. Call: 637-6700.

Vacancy for Driver, Salesman, Porter, Bakers, Cleaners, Pastry maker and Baggers at Humphrey's Bakery 38 Ketley st. Charlestown. Call: 225-7864.

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General Domestic needed to work 4 days per week, must know to cook. Apply at Keyfood Mc Doom village next to the post office.

CNQC is now hiring Construction Workers. Email resume: xu0wying@163.com

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FOR RENT

This year’s fiscal plan was approved to the tune of $781.9 billion in February. Following its passage, government approached the House in April for an additional $31 billion that was later approved in July.

This means that the total Supplementary funds sought so far totals $92 billion. According to the Financial Pa-

The fiscal provision allocated an additional $5 billion to the Office of the Prime Minister; $33 billion for the Ministry of Public Works, and over $3 billion for the Ministry of Education.

Other notable provisions include close to $15 million more for the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs for Security services; $500 million more for the Ministry of Cul-

ture, Youth and Sport and $638 million additional resources for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). Under the Health Sector, $1 billion was approved for the rehabilitation and upgrade of health facilities countrywide.

Meanwhile, under the Ministry of Agriculture, over $8 Billion was approved. The Ministry of Home Affairs also received an additional $1.5 billion to procure vehicles and boats to boost the operational effectiveness of the Guyana Police Force and finance other initiatives.

Fire service assessing schools...

From page 10 going to attend to those schools for fires,” the minister highlighted.

Already, the GFS has assessed all school dormitories with the intention of making the requisite improvements.

“We have done it at all the dorms currently…and we are [looking to make] the changes at every single dorm,” Minister Manickchand explained.

Following approval of ad-

ditional sums in the Committee of Supply, the Ministry of Education will now be able to provide more finances for classroom and janitorial supplies for all schools.

Several educational structures will also be upgraded and rehabilitated with the sums passed.

On May 22, fire ravaged the Mahdia Secondary School girls’ dormitory, claiming the lives of 20 children.

One person has already been charged with the murders of the 20 school girls. Government has since pledged financial support and other forms of support to the families of those who lost their lives or were significantly affected as a result of the tragedy.

Members of the Commission of Inquiry into the incident will be sworn in on Thursday by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

PM Phillips calls on states in Amazon...

From page 15 ACTO sustainable development mechanism,” Prime Minister Phillips also highlighted that indigenous communities continue to play an invaluable role in the protection and preserva-

tion of the Amazon region, noting that for generations, they have depended on the Amazon for food, shelter, medicine and livelihood. “Their traditional knowledge continues to be of great value to the preservation of the Amazon region,” he added.

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The Prime Minister said too that the Summit must bring to bear the awareness of the great urgency with which the international community needs to reconcile its commitment to the world we live in. The efforts must be with equal fervour as large countries did two years ago when the COVID pandemic reordered our lives.

ways for High Forest Low Deforestation countries and jurisdictions with high carbon ecosystems, such as mangroves, peatlands, mature forests and marshes to access climate finance must be a part of the discussions, not only at this summit but also at the upcoming CoP 28, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

He emphasized that as part of ACTO’s role in promoting regional cooperation and sustainable development in the basin, work must be done to quickly strengthen collaboration and implement innovative initiatives to protect the region’s natural resources.

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“The States of the Amazon must raise our collective voice and develop strategic partnerships that will ensure that the commitments made during those deliberations are realised for our mutual benefit,” the Prime Minister added. He said too, that the Amazon states must remain united for the forests and continue to advocate for the adoption and implementation of Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ Frameworks within voluntary and compliance market-based structures. This, he said, “can catalyse climate finance, information exchange, expertise sharing, and collective problem-solving, fostering a united effort in addressing climate mitigation and adaptation goals at the regional level.”

Advanced policy path-

This objective, the Prime Minister noted, can be achieved by bolstering ACTO’s structure and empowering its various mechanisms. “We can collectively pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous future, ensuring the preservation of our shared ecological heritage.” “Let us seize this historic opportunity as leaders of countries responsible for the Amazon rain forest to demonstrate our determination and resolve in tackling the environmental challenges and forging a sustainable, equitable future for all,” the Prime Minister said as he urged leaders to be committed to the cause.

ACTO’s member nations are Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela and Brazil.

$10B estimated to construct new highway between Great Diamond & Craig, EBD

TheMinistryofHousing and Water will soon construct another highway between Diamond and Craig, East Bank Demerara (EBD)atanestimatedcostof $10,162,913,655.

During the recent opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office, it

was revealed that Chinese contractor- ChinaRailway First Group Co Limited is among the 14 contractors thatbidforthecontract.

According to the ministry, the description of the project is for the construction of a main bypass Highway and Connectors from Great Diamond to Craig This

Below are the companies and their bids:

project is divided into five lots.

At the opening of tenders,itwasdisclosedthat worksatLot1oftheproject

is estimated to cost

$2,757,551,283, Lot 2 is

estimated to cost

$2,575,190,223, Lot 3 is

estimated to cost

$1,964,339,423, Lot 4

$1,432,916,363, and Lot 5

$1,432,916,363.

The ministry had explained that the new highway, upon completion will connect the Eccles to Diamond four-lane highway to Craig and provide an alternative route for commuters heading in and out of the city of Georgetown. BackinDecember2021,

thispublicationhadreported that the Ministry had signed a $13.3 billion project with 12contractorstobuildanew four-laneroadfromEcclesto Diamond.

That new four-lane projecthasbeendividedinto 12 Lots and will measure some 9 4km of concrete road.TheEcclestoDiamond four-laneroadissaidtobea

continuation of the Mandela to Eccles four-lane road that h a s a l r e a d y b e e n constructed.

In February, it was also reported that the Ministry had signed another contract to the tune of $3.43 billion fortheconstructionofanew highway from Eccles to Diamond (Old and New DiamondSchemes).

Biden issues executive order restricting US investment in Chinese tech

Theorderwillblockand

regulate high-tech USbased investments in China, increasing tensions betweenthetwonations.

Aljazeera-PresidentJoeBiden on Wednesday signed an executiveorderthatwillnarrowly prohibit certain United States investments in sensitive technology in China and require government notification of fundinginothertechsectors.

Biden said in a letter to Congress he was declaring a national emergency to deal with the threat of advancement by countries like China “in sensitive technologies and products critical to the military, intelligence, surveillance, or cyber-enabled capabilities”.

The long-awaited order authorises the US treasury

secretary to prohibit or restrict certainUSinvestmentsinChinese entities in three sectors: s e m i c o n d u c t o r s a n d microelectronics, quantum information technologies, and certain artificial intelligence systems.

Senioradministrationofficials said that the effort stemmed from nationalsecuritygoals,ratherthan economic interests and that the categoriesitcoveredwerenarrow in scope.The order seeks to blunt China’s ability to use US investments in its technology companies to upgrade its military while also preserving broader levels of trade that are vital for bothnations’economies.

TheUSandChinaappeartobe increasinglylockedingeopolitical competition,alongwiththeirdeep trade relationship as the world’s

two largest economies Biden administration officials have insisted that they have no interest in “decoupling” from China. Yet, the US has limited the export of advanced computer chips, sought to limit investments in China and kepttheexpandedtariffssetupby formerPresidentDonaldTrump.

The move could fuel tensions between the world’s two largest economies, although US officials insisted the prohibitions were intended to address “the most acute” national security risks and not to separate the two countries’ highlyinterdependenteconomies.

Senate Democratic Leader, Chuck Schumer praised Biden’s order, saying, “For too long, American money has helped fuel the Chinese military’s rise.Today the United States is taking a strategic first step to ensure

American investment does not go to fund Chinese military advancement.” He said Congress must enshrine restrictions in law andrefinethem.

‘Weapon in the name of nationalsecurity’

The order is aimed at preventing US capital and expertise from helping develop technologies that could support China’s military modernisation and undermine US national security It is focused on private equity, venture capital, joint venture and greenfield investments.

Most investments captured by the order will require the government to be notified about them. Some transactions will be prohibited. Treasury said it anticipates exempting “certain transactions,

including potentially those in publicly-traded instruments and intracompany transfers from US parentstosubsidiaries”.

A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, warned on Wednesday that the new limits would “seriously undermine the interestsofChineseandAmerican companies and investors”. He addedthatChinawouldtakesteps to“safeguard”itsrights.

Previously, on Friday, the embassy said the US “habitually politicises technology and trade issuesandusesthemasatooland weapon in the name of national security”.

The regulations will only affect future investments, not existing ones, an administration official told the news agency Reuters.

Hawaii wildfires burn historic town of Lahaina ‘to the ground’

BBC - Raging wildfires fanned by hurricane winds have devastated the historic townofLahainaonHawaii’s islandofMaui.

Brian Schatz, a US senator from the state, said on social media that Lahaina is“almosttotallyburnttothe ground”.

At least six people were killed in Maui County, officialssaidonWednesday Maui’s hospital system has been overwhelmed with burn patients and people suffering from smoke inhalation.

“Firefighters are still trying to get the fires under control, and our first responders are in search and rescue mode,” Mr Schatz said There were reports early on Wednesday that some people jumped into the

ocean to escape the fastmoving flames The US Coast Guard said it rescued at least a dozen people from thewater

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen Jr said in a news conference that many homes and business structures were completely destroyed.

One resident in the town of some 12,000 people told localmediathateveryboatin the town harbour was burning “It looks like something out of a movie, a war movie,” Chrissy Lovitt toldHawaiiNewsNow

Officials said it is still difficulttodeterminethetrue extent of the damage on Maui, and have warned the death toll may rise. Around 2,100 people have been displaced. Some relatives of

peoplelivinginLahainasaid they are worried about family members who are missing. “I still don’t know where my little brother is,” Tiare Lawrence told Hawaii News Now “I don’t know wheremystepdadis.”

“Everyone I know in Lahaina, their homes have burneddown,”MsLawrence said.

Thousands remain without power or cell phone service due to the fires, and 911 services in West Maui weredownonWednesday

Officials said that three large fires remain active and outofcontrolonMaui.

Several blazes are also burning on the Big Island, alsoknownasHawaiiisland, a neighbouring island to Maui.

The National Weather

Service said the flames were fanned by Hurricane Dora, which passed Hawaii at a distance but brought with it gusts of above 60 mph (97k/h), coupled with low humiditylevels.

President Joe Biden said inastatementthatthefederal government has sent assistance to Hawaii as it battles the flames and

The fires have reduced homes, businesses and boats on the harbour to rubble (Reuters)

continues with rescue efforts.

He added that the

D e p a r t m e n t o f

Transportation is working to evacuate tourists from Maui. About 4,000 visitors are trying to leave the island, said state transportation officialEdSniffen.

The County of Maui has asked visitors to stay away

from Lahaina, as roads into the town are closed except foremergencyvehicles.

“This is not a safe place to be,” said Hawaii’s Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke.

“Certain parts of Maui, we have shelters that are overrun,” Ms Luke added. “We have resources that are beingtaxed.”

Guyana signs MoU with Dominican Republic for Petrochemicals Plant, Oil Exploration

The Governments of Guyana and the Dominican Republic on Tuesday signed six Memoranda of Understanding(MoUs).

The signing of the MoUs, which concern oil exploration, agriculture, tourism, bilateral investments, as well as the establishmentofanoilrefineryand petrochemicals plant, follows President Irfaan Ali's visit to the Spanish-speakingcountry

In one MoU, the two nations have agreed to seek investor from

both countries to collaborate on the establishment of a 50,000 bpd

projectscouldutilizeupto100,000 hectaresofGuyaneseterritory

The MoU between the Guyana Office for Investment and ProDominicana, the Dominican Republic's main authority on investment promotion, also outlines a mutual exchange of information on investment activities The intention is to i d e n t i f y c o l l a b o r a t i o n opportunities and aid potential investors in understanding legislation and regulations in both nations.Lastly, in a MoU between Guyana's Minister of Tourism,

benefits of the agreements, President Ali said the energy marketwillnotonlybebetweenthe two countries and the Caribbean Region but will expand to northern Brazil, where there is a substantial market.

“So now, with the technology youhave,withthecapitalyouhave, and with these MoUs, that possibilitybecomesveryreal…”

The identification of the commonvalues,understandingand the need for advancing development, President Ali said, are pillars which have led to accelerated partnership through which the people of both countries standtobenefitenormously

refinery in Guyana. Dominican partners will have a majority 51 percent stake, while the Guyanese government indicated it would not participateasashareholder

Another MoU focuses on the potential for setting up a petrochemical plant, seeing it as an avenue for economic growth, job creation, and fortifying the industrial infrastructure for both nations and the region

Recognizing the importance of the petrochemical industry in transforming crude oil and natural gas into vital products like urea, asphalt,andfertilizersaswellasthe potential to satisfy the current demand for these products regionally, both have committed to identifying qualified companies capable of constructing this plant, with the Dominican government holdingatleast51%oftheshares.

Dr Irfaan Ali, and the Dominican Republic's Head of State, Luis Abinader also inked an MoU focusing on the joint development and exploitation of petroleum resources. They intend to establish a working group to negotiate exploration licenses in Guyana and hope to develop a free trade area between the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean Community to further economic balance.

InyetanotherMoU,thenations are exploring collaborative efforts in agriculture The initiative encompasses the joint production of corn, soybeans, and other agriculturalproductslikesugarand spices. There is also a focus on the poultry industry, aiming for synergy between both countries. The agreed-upon agricultural

Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, and her Dominican counterpart, David Collado Morales, both parties committed to promoting tourism They will exchange information and strive to boost tourist numbers through joint marketing campaigns and participation in international tourismexhibitions.

With these agreements, both nations aim to foster deeper bilateral relationships, promising economic growth and regional collaborationintheyearsahead.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the Office of the President said that the MoU signed between Guyana and theDominicanRepublicwillcreate strong and significant value for both countries, ultimately positioning them as leaders in food and energy security beyond the CaribbeanRegion.

President Ali, who is leading a delegation to the Dominican Republic for an Official Visit, said the MoUs allow the states to demonstrate their “collective resolve in addressing some of the major crises our region and the worldisfacingtoday.”

He emphasized that the MoUs offer prospects of tremendous value creation that will benefit the citizensofbothnations.

“The value creations in these agreements are enormous The value creation, of course, would lead to job creation. And not only the issue of job creation should be looked at in the value of jobs. But we're talking about specialized jobs, more highly skilled jobs, that will be created out of these joint initiatives,”PresidentAlisaid.

This partnership, according to

the Head of State, will see the transfer of technology, knowledge, andtheintegrationofmarkets,food systems and agriculture portfolios. He explained that “there'll be no conversation on food security, especially in this region, without thetwocountriesbeingapartofit”.

Similarly, on the energy security front, the Guyanese Head of State said the collaboration between the two countries will allowthemtobeleaders,forgingan alliance through which investment and expertise from the Dominican Republic will finance and support the necessary infrastructure in Guyana.

Explaining the potential

Meanwhile, the President highlighted that alongside efforts towards achieving these goals, discussions have also focused on security cooperation between the two nations. The Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force have initiated engagements with their Dominican Republic counterparts to explore opportunities for increased collaboration.

He revealed that there has been a significant increase in trade as imports of products between the two countries have been climbing, signalling a positive in the partnership.PresidentAlinotedthat the relationship between Guyana and the Dominican Republic “is built on sustainability, resilience, and a thorough understanding as to the challenges we both face, now and in the future, as to countries, butmoreimportantly,asaregion.”

President Ali highlighted that the Guyanese private sector will benefit significantly from the new partnerships, adding that with the agreements in place, Guyanese businesses will have new access to capital, technology, knowledge, and access to big markets and other opportunities. Another plus for the localprivatesector,HisExcellency said, is “the commitment of both sides to remove all barriers and advancethisrelationship…”

“ In this new emerging relationship,itisimportantthatwe, atthelevelofgovernment,sendthe rightsignalensuringthatbothatthe government level and the private sector level, we demonstrate a relationship that is built on trust, confidence, and tone that we set is imperative for the joint collaboration of our private sectors,”PresidentAlistressed. Working groups have also been established with the aim of advancing the objectives set out in theagreements.

EcuadorianPresidentialCandidate, Villavicenciokilledinattack

AlJazeera-Ecuadorianpresidential candidateFernandoVillavicencio been killed in an armed attack followingacampaignrallyinthe capital Quito, according to the country's president Guillermo Lasso and local media reports.

Lasso confirmed the killing of Villavicencio on Wednesday and vowed the crime would not go unpunished “Outraged and shocked by the assassination of presidential candidat Fernando Villavicencio M solidarity and condolences to wife and daughters,” Lasso said the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.“For his memory and his fight, I assure you that this crime will not remain unpunished,”

said.“Organizedcrimehavegone far, but all the weight of the law fall on them,” he said.Lasso said he would host top security officials at an urgent meeting Local media reported that Villavicencio, 59, a former legislator who had been polling at 7.5 percent voting intention, had been shot dead after a c a m p a i g n e v e n t i n Quito.Several others were injured in the armed attack at the Colegio Anderson in the capital, according to local media reports.

journalist and political activist, Villavicencio was one of eight presidential candidates registered to stand in the elections scheduledforAugust20.

Guyana's Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, and her Dominican Republic counterpart, David Collado Morales sign a MoU to promote tourism.

Presidential Candidate, Fernando Villavicencio

President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali (left), and President of the Dominica Republic, Luis Abinader (right) following the signing of the MoUs).

Green Stand to cater to patrons at Kares One Guyana T10 on August 12

Patrons attending the finals of the Kares One Guyana T10 Blast are advised that the Green Stand at the National Stadium, Providence, will be the primary stand for seating on Saturday, August 12.

However, should there be an overfill, the Red Stand will open to accommodate patrons

Below the Green Stand will be the Corporate Village, a well-stocked bar by Banks DIH, and various food concessions.

Persons are advised that

while they can bring small coolers into the venue, they cannot bring glass bottles. There will be a strict prohibition on the usage of glass bottles on Saturday.

In an aim by the organisers to keep all activities centrally located, the Free Kidz Zone will be at the back of the Green Stand.

The children will enjoy free rides in the child-friendly zone, including a bouncy castle and free ice cream, soda, snacks, and water for

the young. Persons seeking private boots are asked to contact Azad Ibrahim on 6243362.

The first semi-final pits the rampant Eccles All-Stars against Team Corruption from 14:00h, followed by V-Net Vipers, who ousted favourites Village Rams, against Tarmac Titans from 16:00h.

The Charity match will be at 18:00h, then the grand final at 20:00h.

Admission to the venue is free. Many players are ec-

Thursday August 10, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

You may have that awful feeling that you really need to get down to work yet something seems to stand square in the way of progress. Perhaps you feel like you're at a four-way stop with three other cars.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You're anxious to take action, Taurus, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. Be careful about acting too hastily. It's important that you and your loved one.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

It may feel as if something or someone is trying to keep you from moving ahead with your ambitious goals and aggressive nature, Gemini. At first you may resent this ball and chain attached to your ankle.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

You're apt to feel more talkative than usual, Cancer. There are many times when you may shrink from a situation in disgust or perhaps boredom.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

You may be anxious to try an uncharted path that speaks to your sense of risk and adventure, Leo. It's important to temper these actions with realistic planning.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

Other people are likely to be anxious to get up and moving with their plans, Virgo. It might be better for you to hang back a bit and see how things pan out before you take action.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

Your heart has been active, Libra, and you're probably feeling the need to take charge of a certain relationship. Instead of being too hasty in your pursuit of this romance, you should probably do more planning.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

There is solid grounding to your emotions right now that is helping you stabilize your sensitive feelings, Scorpio. As you become more attuned to your internal needs,.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

Your relationships are going well from an intellectual perspective, Sagittarius, but from an emotional one, you might feel like they a ren't as fulfilling as you'd like.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

Concentrate on nurturing your needs right now instead of trying to accommodate the needs of others, Capricorn. There is a difficult tension that arises when you try to comfort someone.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Things may roll along nicely in love and romance and then suddenly run into a snag, Aquarius. Perhaps you failed to recognize an important birthday or anniversary.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Here's a reminder that it's OK to be you. You may feel more centered than usual, which encourages you to stand up for yourself and say the things you must to people who need to hear them.

static about playing Tapeball at Guyana’s premier sporting facility and under lights.

According to the organizers, while they are confident of a thrilling end to the tournament, given the quality of teams present, they are happy to announce numerous fan prizes.

Persons will win CPL tickets, two persons will win cell phones, compliments of ENet; two will win an overnight stay at Jaigobin Hotel in Essequibo; two gift vouchers from Pressy Gift Store and K-Tronics; and Lunch and Dinner for persons at Heliconia Restaurant.

The first-ever champions will pocket G$1M, while the losing finalist will collect G$300,000. The two losing

RHCCCC

From page 23 managed cricket clubs with a youth programme, will also benefit.

We take this opportunity to thank Javed and Imran of West Indian Sports Complex, Option Group of USA, Hilbert Foster, Bish Panday of P and P Insurance Brokers, Sean Devers, Trevis Simon, Årïêl J. Tïlkú, Aaron Beharry, Leanna Bachan and Imran Saccoor, Devon Ramnauth, Teddy Singh, Romash Munna, Ravi Etwaroo, Kelvin Brijlall, Ravin Harkishun, Surendra Harkishun, Allan Mangru and Dennis Mangru, Vishal Mahabir, Sherman Austin, Huburn Evans, Rajendra Sadeo and Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports Awards and Trophies, Ajay Gainda of Cricket Equipment Guyana, Gajanand Singh, Peter Ramkissoon, Rabindranath Saywack, Roshan Gaffoor, Ameer Rahaman, Chin Singh, Denesh Chandrapaul, Davo Naraine of UK, Dr Cecil Beharry, Raj Mathura, Raj Bharrat, Latch Mohabir and family, Suresh Dhanai, Vishal Nagamootoo, Moses Nagamootoo, Regal Sports Store, Omkar Singh, Parmanand Dhaniram,Denanauti Singh and Krishna Rengensamy. We thank the media for the role they are playing in promoting this venture. Distribution will continue.

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

semi-finalists will walk away with G$100,000 each. There will also be prizes for outstanding individual performances.

The tournament’s Most Valuable Player will get a motorbike valued over G$250,000, compliments of Assuria Insurance.

Additionally, there will be a celebrity match before the championship match where the winning side will be rewarded G$200,000, which will be donated to charity.

The competition is sponsored by Kares Engineering Inc, Mohamed’s Enterprise, GT Beer, Rainforest Water, Star Party Rentals, Avinash

Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., ENet, Regal Stationery

and Computer Centre, Trophy Stall, Premier Insurance, Cricket Zone USA, Beacon Café, Continental Transport, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, National Sports Commission, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Jacobs Jewelry and Pawn Shop, First Change Builder Inc. Impressions Inc., Sicko Mode, 94.1 BOOM FM, Assuria Insurance, Montra Restaurant and Longue, Gafoors and Hard Rock Café.

Finals Schedule

Match 29 – Eccles AllStars v Team Corruption14:00h

Match 30 – V-Net Vipers v Tarmac Titans- 16:00h

Match 31 – Charity

Match- 18:00h

Match 32 – Final- 20:00h

The countdown is on for CPL 2023 – cricket played louder!

We are now only a matter of days away from the start of CPL 2023!

The Republic Bank

CaribbeanPremierLeagueis back for its 11th edition and willtakeplacebetween16th August and 24th September

Join the world’s greatest cricketersacross5islandsas the teams battle it out for glory This year there is an expanded schedule for the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premierleagueasthefemale superstars take the field in Barbados and Trinidad

Tickets for all CPL and WCPLgames, including the CPLPlayoffs in Guyana are nowonsaleonline.

Simply head to your online ticket account to

login, view the full CPL schedule and purchase ticketsinjustafewclicks.

Once you’ve purchased your tickets, remember to download to your mobile device or print for presentation at the match venueifyou’vechosennotto collectattheboxoffice.

To view your ticket(s) pleasegoto“myhomepage” byclickingyournameinthe top right corner, order historyandviewdetails.

ViewTicketingTerms & Conditionsoncplt20.com

View Fixtures on cplt20.com

Get your tickets now to support your favourite CPL teamandseeCricketPlayed Louder at the Biggest Party inSport!

Guyana U13 coach hails superb team effort following Bilateral Series win

- Urges players to work harder as they shift focus to U15 levels

FollowingtheirBilateral Series win against Trinidad and Tobago, Head Coach of the Guyana U13 team Amir Rahaman, said he wants his players to work even harder astheynowshiftattentionto playingmoreseniorcricket.

Guyanawonthe4match Series 3-0 with the final matchbeingwashedoutand upon their arrival at the Eugene F Correia International Airport on Wednesday, the Champs along with coaches and manager were all smiles followingtheirwin.

Rahaman, during an interview,said,thisbyfaris one of the better Guyana U13teamswithplayerswho he said are more than capableofplayingattheU15 andU17levels.

The coach said the team exhibited high levels of maturity and cricket awareness which played a key role in their dominance throughout the series. He believed that a number of factors contributed to the team’senergy

One key aspect was the gelling of the players

towards the goal of becoming more of a family rather than just a team of players. Rahaman outlined

that he along with his coaching staff, they and the players managed to forge a life-long relationship as it will continue to play a crucial role as their careers progress.

Rahaman also lauded the GuyanaCricketBoard(GCB) and president Bissoondyal Singh for their support prior and during the tour He noted that the GCB Academies, which were launched in Essequibo, saw a few stars being born as players from acrossall3countiesputtheir hands up in service of their country

Concluding his interview the coach took some time to thank his players for their contributionsandtheirefforts, urging them to return to their respective clubs and work evenharderwithnewchapter ofU15cricketonthehorizon.

The Guyana U13 coach also called on all other coaches from across the respective counties, within theAcademies and clubs, to work with these players upon their arrival home. He also urged players to build theirrelationshipswitheach other outside of the team as theyareallonthesamepath to becoming the next batch ofseniorGuyanaplayers.

RHCCCC once again benefits from “Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana”

Rose Hall Community Center Cricket Club once again benefited from this noble initiative after receiving two boxes of cricket balls. This project will continue to support this CricketClubandeveryother thatinvestssoheavilyonits youthprogrammes.

This rapid rising cricket club continues to produce many young cricketers who have already represented Guyana at the youth levels withoneofthefastestyoung bowlerintheCaribbean,Isai Thorne already represented the West Indies Under19 team. In addition, young female cricketer Ashmini Munisar is the West Indies

threepairsofwicketkeeping pads, five arm guards, two boxes, ten cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets and one softball cricket bat. In addition to the above, $600,000 worth in gear was donatedbySheikMohamed, former National wicket keeper/batsman All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available atthetime.

Todate,sixtyfiveyoung players from all three counties of Guyana have benefited from three junior gearbags,twotrophies,four arm guards, twenty six bats, two boxes, five helmets, twenty two pairs of cricket

youth coach,Travis Persaud and softball teams in the UpperCorentynearea. Cricket related items,

used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline

and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the

countryandclubleadersalso assist to identify talent Progressiveandwell (Continuedonpage21)

SENIORACCOUNTANT

youth captain and also represented the Senior Female Team. On receipt of oneboxofcricketballs,team coach Ameer Rahaman is very grateful for the balls and promised to continue to serve the game in Guyana.

Rahaman is currently the headcoachwiththeNational Under13 team that went to Trinidad to participate in a bilateral series which Guyanahaswon.

Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $370,000 in cash, thirteen colored cricket uniforms, two trophies, seventeen pairs of cricket boots, thirty one pairs of batting pads, thirty two cricket bats, twenty nine pairs of batting gloves, twenty three thigh pads,

shoes,fifteenpairsofbatting pads,twothighpads,onebat rubber, twenty four pairs of batting gloves and two pairs of wicketkeeping gloves. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area benefited fr

Pomeroon, Leguan and W

n a m C r i c k e t

CommitteesandCottonTree

Die Hard also received one boxofredcricketballseach, Cold Fusion Cricket Club thirteen color uniforms while RHCCCC received three boxes of balls, fifteen whitecricketshirts,onepair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket keeping gloves and a set of stumps a n d b a i l s O t h e r

beneficiaries are The Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem and

Left is Sanjay Algoo and Ameer Rahaman proudly displayed the box of balls.

Tianna springs into 200m final at Commonwealth Youth Games

…Austin, Harvey and Roberts left out

Tianna Springer at the start of the women’s 200m at the Commonwealth Youth

ByRawleToney

Tianna Springer will be the lone Guyanese in action in today’s 200 metres, after squeezing into the finals at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago.

The other athletes on show,MalachiAustin,Javon Roberts,Attoya Harvey and Narrisa McPherson, though turning in impressive and personal best times, didn’t advance.

Springer, who won the games’women’s 400m title, returned to clock 24 39s second in her semi-final run whichplacedherfifthinthe race.

However, her time was amongthetwofastestofthe non-automatic qualifiers, providing her with a lifeline and an opportunity to contendforanothermedalat the seventh edition of the

championships.

Meanwhile, although Malachi Austin had already secured a bronze medal in the 400m, his time of 21.99 seconds in the 200m was insufficienttoqualifyforthe finals.

Nevertheless, this marked another personal best for the 16-year-old athlete. He had entered the event with a personal best time of 22 33 seconds, achieved at this year’s CARIFTAGames.

He further improved his timeto22.27secondsduring the opening round of the 200m at the Hasley CrawfordStadium.

Meanwhile, McPherson didn’t make it out of the women’s800mqualification round, with her time of two minutes, 19 76s good enoughtofinisheighthinthe secondsemi-finals.

McPherson will not return to Guyana emptyhanded, having already secured a bronze medal in thewomen’s400mfinal.

Eventhoughachievinga person-best time of 1:55.69 in the Men’s 800m, Javon Roberts placed fifth in the qualifyingrounds.

Hispreviousbesttimein the 800m, 1:56.64, came at the CARIFTA Games this year,wherehewongold.

Robertsalsocompetedin the Men’s 1500m event where he also didn’t qualify outofthestrongpool.

Attoya Harvey also missed out on a place in the final, with her 2:17.47 saw her finishing outside of the qualifyingbracket.

All eyes will be on Springer today as she hunts for another medal. Guyana will also compete in the Mixed4x400mrelay

GBA selects 21-member squad for Winfield...

Frompage25 theoverallwinner,wesimplycannotutilize pastresultsasabarometer,”Ninvalleadded.

“As a consequence, we will leave no stone unturned in our continued preparation to maintain our dominance in the region, as the competition

provides a window, brief as it may be, into the future and overall imminent direction of the discipline in the region”, hefurthersaid.

Guyana will join teams from Barbados, Bahamas, Grenada, St Lucia and Trinidad andTobagoatthetournament.

Games. the

The Guyana U13 team pose with their medals and trophies following their return from Trinidad and Tobago where they defeated the host’s 3-0 in the 4-match series.

Tianna Springer