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AIETEUR NEWS

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Journalist, Gaza

Civil Defence workers

Monday Edition December 16, 2024 - Vol. 17 No. 49 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 51,717

killed in Israeli strike

Change of Govt. or not, Hess sees no fiscal risks to Stabroek Block contract CEO of Hess Corporation, John Hess

‘Govt. blocking citizens’ efforts to bring ExxonMobil to heel’ - Chris Ram ExxonMobil took 179M barrels of oil in 2024, gave Guyana 26M barrels

Gold miners sign Thief ditches new pact with Govt. bike for a swim in for more duty-free hasty get-away concessions

Two killed in Tuschen ...driver arrested smash-up after trying to flee

PAGE 02

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

OGGN challenges Exxon to prove adherence to “highest ethical standards” OGGN members have been raising awareness in the United States about Guyana’s lopsided oil contract with ExxonMobil, protesting for changes to deal.

…cites failure of company to explain overstated precontract costs, defiance of int’l safety standards Members of the Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN) have challenged ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) to prove its adherence to the “highest ethical standards” as claimed by its lawyer in a December 8, 2024 letter to this publication.

General Counsel, Andrew Lodge in a letter responding to a citizen, on behalf of Exxon made it clear, “We adhere to the highest ethical standards and are committed to transparency and integrity in all our dealings.”

In disputing this statement, OGGN members, Alfred Bhulai, Andre Brandli, Ganga Ramdas, Kenrick Hunte, Darshanand Khusial and Mike Persaud argued, that the company does not even comply with the law.

OGGN said, “In 2018, Christopher Ram showed, using the oil companies’ own financial statements, that the pre-contract costs were overstated by at least US$92 million. If ExxonMobil is committed to integrity, it should explain why six years have elapsed and not a word to counter the integrity of Mr. Ram’s analysis.”

Meanwhile, the members highlighted that ExxonMobil does not pay taxes on its oil profits in Guyana. This is in keeping with the oil contract signed with the Government of Guyana that it receives tax receipts for taxes it did not pay.

OGGN however pointed out that more than 140 countries require companies like Exxon to pay at least 15% in taxes.

It therefore reasoned, “Why is Guyana NOT among them? If Exxon claims transparency, it

should publish the tax receipts it received from the Government of Guyana and disclose whether the receipts are used to receive a tax credit from the IRS.” Shifting its attention to the company’s offshore operations, the members of the Network argued that ExxonMobil defies the rule of law and international safety standards. They noted that the Liza One and Liza Two projects are being operated above the design production rates.

“How can it be ethical to place Guyana and the Caribbean at the risk of a major oil spill especially when there is no parent company guarantee? How can ExxonMobil claim ‘the highest ethical standard’ given that this recklessness can bankrupt Guyana and many countries in the Caribbean,” the members asked.

In conclusion, they noted t h a t n u m e r o u s commentators in several countries have agreed that the Exxon contract is one of the world’s most lop-sided.

To this end, OGGN said, “It is a principle of contract law that, if one party does not fully understand what it is signing, the contract is invalid. For ExxonMobil to continue to refer to ‘sanctity of contract’ in such a context shows substantial disregard for ethical standards. If ExxonMobil wants to be respected, it needs to live up to its grandiose claims.”

The Oil and Gas Governance Network, founded in 2017, is a nongovernmental, non-profit organization, geared towards informing and educating the Guyanese public and advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance.

Monday December 16, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 03

‘Govt. blocking citizens’ efforts to bring ExxonMobil to heel’- Chris Ram ...says rejection of referendum another puzzling, anti-nationalist approach to contract renegotiation Chartered Accountant and lawyer Christopher Ram holds the view that the government’s rejection of a referendum, to look at the terms of the 2016 PSA and to get a better deal for the Guyanese, raises questions on their commitment to renegotiate the lopsided oil deal. And he also highlighted how government has sought to block citizens from holding ExxonMobil accountable.

In the December 13th edition of his column in the Stabroek News titled ‘Every Man, Woman and Child in Guyana Must Become Oil Minded-Column 145, Referendum Rejection Raises About Government’s C o m m i t m e n t To O i l Contract Renegotiation,’ he said that the Vice President’s recent dismissal of a potential referendum on the renegotiation of the current oil deal with ExxonMobil and his ruling out of a referendum alongside the elections next year, which notably were made without a statement from the president, adds another layer to the “administration’s puzzling and anti-nationalist approach to contract renegotiation.”

Referencing the survey, he recently conducted to get the view of the public on the matter he highlighted that it, “showed that 94% of Guyanese support the renegotiation of the Stabroek Block PSA, presenting a compelling mandate for action. This overwhelming public sentiment has made the referendum question unavoidable, though it would not usually arise in relation to a matter of this nature.”

Ram explained that the

call for a referendum “has gained oxygen only because the Government and Jagdeo have refused to do what they promised to do and what the 2016 Agreement expressly allows. Article 32.1 of the Production Sharing Agreement explicitly provides a mechanism for changes to the Agreement.”

However, after four years in office this administration is yet to take even a preliminary step to have the process initiated, Ram said.

RESISTANCE The lawyer went on to say that, the public resistance by the government goes beyond mere inaction. “The Attorney General, Vice President and the Minister of Natural Resources have managed to stymie the efforts of citizens to bring Exxon to heel. Instead, they have chosen to take the oil company’s side in any legal action brought against them against exploitation,” Ram noted.

The Government of Guyana (GoG), in three consecutive Court matters, filed by citizens in the past two years challenging ExxonMobil, had joined the proceedings to throw its support behind the multinational oil and gas corporation. Citizens had instituted the legal proceedings against the oil giant for “robbing” the nation of its taxes, depriving it of adequate protection against potentially devastating spills and also operating contrary to the environmental regulations governing its activities.

While the move by the state to throw its support behind the oil company took many Guyanese by surprise,

some activists believe that the government is now revealing its true colours.

Initially, businessman, Glenn Lall had moved to the High Court in what was described a “historic move” challenging the extensive tax waivers being granted to Exxon and its partners through the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed with government.

Lall was fighting for companies other than the Stabroek Block licensees to pay its fair share of taxes, but the Attorney General, Anil Nandlall submitted strong arguments justifying the tax holidays. The case which was prepared and filed by his Attorney-at-Law, Mohamed R. Ali, outlined that many of the provisions listed under Article 15.1 of the Petroleum Agreement, dated June 27, 2016 between the Guyana Government and the oil companies, grants exemptions to persons other than licensees, which violate the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act (PEPA), the Financial Administration (and Audit) Act, the P r e v e n t i o n o f Discrimination Act, and the Constitution.

In light of this, Lall t h r o u g h h i s l a w y e r, contended that the provisions are unlawful, null and void, and of no legal effect. The businessman lost the case in February of this year. In his ruling, High Court Justice Nareshwar Harnanan said the minister is vested with the power under Section 51 of the PEPA and the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) (Tax laws) to grant EEPGL, CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited, and Hess Guyana Exploration Limited, all

companies that are parties to the case, concessions of extensive tax exemptions.

OIL SPILL In a second matter filed by two citizens, Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte, for the oil giant to adhere to the requirements of the Liza One Permit and provide the nation with an unlimited parent company guarantee to pay for damages relating to an oil spill, the government again fought against the citizens, taking the side of Exxon.

The High Court in a ruling on May 3, 2023 ruled that the company must provide the parent guarantee within 30 days. It wasn’t long after that the regulatory body; Environmental

Chartered Accountant and Lawyer, Christopher Ram Protection Agency (EPA) filed an appeal against the full liability coverage, ordered by Justice Sandil Kissoon. The government later joined the case with Exxon to fight against the Guyanese citizens.

The appeal by government was a surprise to a wide cross section of the population, who in the pages of this newspaper wrote several letters for weeks describing the action as “unpatriotic” and

“uncaring” among others.

The question was even asked why Exxon was not leading the appeal instead of the state, since the government should have a vested interest in protecting itself and Caribbean neighbours, who can also be impacted by a massive spill.

In a third matter, the government had again teamed up with Exxon against two citizens, who challenged the legality of the Continued on page 9

PAGE 04

Kaieteur News

The wealth gap I

n recent days a fierce debate has been engaging in social media and even in the newspapers about the diamond Ball hosted by the First lady and how lavish it was.

The issues of course were whether this event was paid for by tax dollars and whether it was insensitive to flaunt such wealth while 40% of Guyanese continues to struggle under the load of high cost of living, unemployment and crime.

Ever so steadily and insidiously there is developing in our country a tale of two societies: one super rich and the other desperately struggling to keep their heads above the water of survival.

And like its Dickensinian forerunner it is a tale of the best of times (the rich) and the worst of times (the poor).

We have to wonder therefore, if like the latter tale, its dénouement will not be one of upheaval and revolution.

After the socialist economic experimentation of the seventies and eighties, its egalitarian ethos had been achieved: we were all more or less equally down and out.

In our slow climb out of those doldrums, the freewheeling, anything-goes, free-market of the neo-liberals – the antithesis of the socialist model – became the vehicle of our liberation.

Practically all our leaders went along. Fuelled by the profits of greed, which was now “good”; the growth of the economy was supposed to “raise all ships”. Decades after we can see that most of the ships, i.e. the poor, have remained moribund.

Back in the 18th century, Rousseau, who can be called the theorist of the French Revolution that Dickens was to fictionalise, made a distinction between the sentiments of “amour de soi” and “amour propre” that was a crucial feature that sparked the revolution.

Amour de soi was the striking of a healthy equilibrium between concerns for one's own wellbeing; one's selfworth; one's self-regard and the concern and empathy that was owed and felt towards the less fortunate in the society.

Amour propre, on the other hand, was the transformation of the healthy regard for one's self-worth into a malignant narcissism fuelled by the acquisition of property and the greed and envy that it engendered.

And this is where we have evidently arrived at in Guyana: a tint, uncaring elite that is unbelievably rich and living in a luxurious style that can only be described as “obscene”, generating powerful waves of envy in the rest of society that can only be described as an underclass.

During the era of extreme disparities of wealth and status, the attacks from the disenchanted of the middle strata would be strident denunciations by a few that have joined the poor in their barricades.

Then there will be those that would seek to imitate the lifestyle of “the rich and famous” by joining them. Since there is no value to a club that would have everyone as a member, it is not easy at all to become one of the elites.

Most aspirants start by becoming obsequious hangers-on and yes-men that are willing to become fronts to the ongoing scams.

Others delve directly into a get-rich life of crime and corruption and celebrity – and enter the elite laterally. But most corrosive is the drive of some – quite a large group in Guyana – to idealize the elite and confer onto them almost divine qualities.

They will fawn over the rich and famous and take it as a blessing if the latter are to condescend to be in their midst.

One is exposed to this phenomenon at most public events.

We hope the cauldron of envy doesn't bubble over too violently.

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

ANUG has its work cut out Dear Editor, The way political parties come into existence before national elections and fade away after in Guyana would lead one to believe that their only purpose is to win government with the least possible effort.

Generally, over time, parties need to identify, win, hold and expand their constituency whose interests they aggregate, integrate and represent in a fashion that allows them to play a substantial role in policymaking. Parties also provide information shortcuts that help the populace to make complex decisions and are vital arrangements when it comes to holding all policymakers accountable for their performance.

All this is usually set upon some higher moral values having to do with race, class, religion, geographic regional, etc., which party organisers ignore or misrepresent at their peril. This is particularly relevant to genuine new entrants, who must sensibly navigate the

fluctuations of the existing political culture and structures. Thus, in a democracy political parties, particularly new entrants, must be vibrant and careful about the example they set in terms of the different dimensions of their behaviour and the information they communicate. This is the general context in which a reset is suggested for A New and United Guyana (ANUG).

The first of the 17 United Nations Development Goals call upon states to 'end poverty in all its forms everywhere' by implementing 'nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors (a basic set of essential social rights and transfers in cash and kind to provide a minimum income and livelihood security for all and to facilitate effective demand for and access to essential goods and services) and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable.'

Perhaps reflective of this

kind of thinking, at no. 17 of its promise to the Guyanese electorate during the 2020 elections, ANUG said that it intends to 'Ensure that a basic income is available firstly to those in need but eventually to all Guyanese'.

Notwithstanding Guyana's newly acquired oil wealth, poverty is rife and there is a substantial demand for a basic income for the poor and possibly eventually for all Guyanese. Confronted by this public demand, the PPP government was compelled to change its position and is at present taking half measures: distribution a 'one off' $100,000 cash grant to all those 18 and over. Arguably, ANUG is among the first parties to have made this proposal and should have been dirving this important discussion, but where has ANUG been?

Then again, ANUG's number one promise was to 'Through constitutional reform establish a system of shared governance that provides security, stability and equality for Guyanese of

all ethnic groups.' The party appears to have taken the position that it did not win enough votes at the last elections to indicate that the population is interested in shared governance. But any such belief constitutes a major misreading of political responses in Guyana.

Outside of who holds ultimate power, one cannot determine what the electorate wants by way of national elections in this ethnically bifurcated society.

Indeed, based on such an assumption, one could also conclude that the voters would not support poverty alleviation by some form of minimum income, and perhaps that is why the party has been largely silent on this matter.

In terms of political manoeuvrings, ANUG has made important missteps that have allowed a substantial number of Guyanese to place it in the PPP's camp. Last week I stated that having noted the negative role ethnically based political divisions and (Continued on page 6)

Relentless Medicare investment bodes well for Guyana Dear Editor, This “New nursing school for New Amsterdam (slated) to be operationalised next year” must be contextualised. You see, Readers, the paucity of nurses worldwide is staggering. In fact, the overall shortage of health care workers was exacerbated by the COVID19 pandemic, and according t o t h e Wo r l d H e a l t h Organisation (WHO), there were 27.9 million nurses globally in 2020, making up nearly 60 percent of the health professions and the largest occupational group in the health sector, but there is still an estimated shortage of up to 13 million nurses around the world.

Currently, the world can make use of millions of nurses to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 3.c on health financing and workforce. On this note, we all need to appreciate that “Health has a central place in SDG 3: (that is to) Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, as “Almost all of the other 16 goals are directly related to health or will contribute to health indirectly (NB. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals with 169 targets that all 191 UN Member

States have agreed to try to achieve by the year 2030).

So, yes, even as efforts are ongoing to improve healthcare delivery across the country, the bigger picture is that Guyana is a key player globally in aiding with the SDGs. The news is that “The construction of a new nursing school at the site of the old New Amsterdam Hospital is expected to be completed sometime next year.” And Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony “… emphasised that the new institution will be providing modern facilities and resources to train nurses and medical workers effectively.” And it goes without saying that at the end of it all Guyana's Health Care Sector will be in a better position “… to enhance the quality of healthcare services by ensuring that nursing professionals be well equipped with the latest knowledge and skills” (in this ever-evolving world of Medicare). Kudos to the People's Progressive Party Government, as this venture proves that we have a”… government who is committed to advancing the healthcare system, and addressing the growing demand for skilled healthcare workers.”

A good thing to take note of is that there is a kind of

parity that is in the offing, that will be quite evident and which will bring 'ease' and 'comfort' to the general public. I mean Guyana is not some little remote island, with a tiny land mass and a few people. It is a massive place, and so diversification and decentralisation are quite the order to go by. That is why “The new nursing school … is being constructed simultaneously with a new hospital in the township.” As we recall, back in January of this year, “President Dr. Irfaan Ali had turned the sod for the construction of this US$161 million hospital (in New Amsterdam), which is intended to be a major hub, linking both the regional and country-wide healthcare facilities.”

I just love this network that was pointed out back then: “This hospital in Region Six is expected to be the hub, and everything around it will be the mechanisms … all the specialists and will all be connected through telemedicine to every other facility in this region whether in Canje Creek or Baracara (as) all the health centres and hospitals will be connected to this hospital through telemedicine.”

It gets better since on completion, “… the new

facility will be linked to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), which will be connected to the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and other major hospitals around the world through telemedicine.”

Enough said, but a final note is in order.

'Editor, the issue of nurse shortages has become even more urgent in all countries.

What makes matters worse is that an increasing number of nurses across the globe are expressing their intention to leave the profession due to heavy workloads, insufficient resources, burn out and stress related to COVID-19. In March 2023, in its report, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) stated that “… the worldwide shortage of nurses should be treated as a global health emergency. It says health systems around the world will only start to recover from the effects of the pandemic and be rebuilt when there is sufficient investment in a wellsupported global nursing workforce.”

Imagine how w ellpoised Guyana is in talking up the slack, as a new nursing school for New Amsterdam is likely to be operationalised next year.

Sincerely Hargesh B. Singh

Monday December 16, 2024

Will Govt’s promise to establish its own law school ever be fulfilled?

Dear Editor, The establishment of a local law school in Guyana has been long anticipated by the public.

It will lessen the financial burden and limitations faced by students attending law schools such as Hugh Wooding in Trinidad and Tobago, Eugene Dupuch in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, and Norman Manley in Jamaica. Stabroek News on September 25th, 2022 reported that “Guyana is closer to securing a Council of Legal Educationrecognised law school,” according to Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall SC. According to Stabroek News, Minister Nandlall made a case for the creation of a Council law school in Guyana at a meeting of the Council of Legal Education that was held in Bridgetown, Barbados on September 16 and 17, 2022.

In contrast to a proposal put forth by his predecessor, Basil Williams, SC, which the Council rejected, the Attorney General told the Council during his presentation that the Government of Guyana is suggesting that the law school be a Council institution, to be run and administered by the CLE, but that the Government will supply the land and buildings in accordance with the standards and guidelines established by the Council.

After giving careful thought to this request, the Council decided to write to the Government of Guyana to inform them of their decision and to outline the criteria and other requirements that the Government must meet.

INews Guyana on September 18th, 2024 reported that “the Government of Guyana has finished a feasibility study for the establishment of a law school here, and the country is close to acquiring the facility, according to Minister

o f L e g a l A ff a i r s A n i l Nandlall”.

To be honest, we are sick of hearing this song in 2024 because so many Guyanese, having graduated from the University of Guyana (UG) with a Bachelor of Law, now have to think about their financial future in order to complete the next chapter, which is admission to law s c h o o l s i n t h e aforementioned Caribbean territories.

In order to attend these esteemed law schools, I have seen a number of my friends post on social media asking for financial aid for tuition and accommodation.

Is the government actively pushing for Guyana to establish a law school of its own?

One could argue that because these kinds of issues are handled procedurally, they will take time, but what about Guyanese who excelled in UG but are unable to attend Hugh Wooding, Eugene Dupuch, or Norman Manley because they lack the necessary funds?

I am aware that the government will defend itself by saying that it is making an effort, but is that effort sufficient?

I should have commended the current government for announcing free tertiary education, as required by Article 27 of the Constitution of Guyana.

In the same way that having a law school here will benefit many Guyanese like myself who aspire to serve humanity and uphold the pillars of justice with integrity, credibility, and altruism, as this initiative will surely lessen the financial burdens of many students.

For I am adamant that the time has come for the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to have its own law school; the ball continues to remain in the court of our policymakers.

Regards Antonio Dey

Kaieteur News

PAGE 05

Girmitiya: What's in a name?

Dear Editor, Responding to the use of the term “Girmitiya” by myself and Dr. Ganga Ramdas referring to the descendants of Indian indentured labourers in Guyana, my friend Devanand Bhagwan asserted that “Hindustani, not Girmitiya, is the correct and respectful designation for descendants of Indian indentured labourers in the Caribbean”. While the discussion may appear to be esoteric to some, the name of a group conveys much sociocultural information about their identity that have accrued historically. Identity is not a fixed but rather a dynamic notion that illustrates the ongoing effort of people to seize agency in naming themselves. Our case is intertwined with our colonized origin and the ongoing decolonizing process.

The British, ruling India from the 18th century, transported individuals within and without the country as indentured labourers and routinely referred to them as “coolies”. The word became a term of opprobrium, to say the least, equivalent to what we refer euphemistically today as the “N” word. In Guyana, the cultural activist Rajkumari Singh attempted to valorize the term in her 1973 essay, “I am a Coolie” by highlighting their efforts to develop Guyana. Today,

the Mauritian cultural theorist Torabully has introduced the term “Coolitude” to describe the wider philosophical world view. But “coolie” has not gained traction in selfidentification, as say, the word “Black” has done in the African diaspora.

B h a g w a n recommendation of “Hindustani”, which as he says, is widely used in Suriname to identify the descendants of Indian Indentureds there. This usage originated from the Dutch adoption of the word “Hindustan”, which along with “India” and “Bharat”, referred to the “British Raj” during indentureship.

Hindustan had referred to the Moghul-ruled lands east of the Sindhu/Indus River.

After independence, the constituent assembly drafting India's constitution dropped that name and opted for “India that is Bharat”. In pursuit of its own evolving identity for its 1.4 billion citizens, the present government has signaled retaining only the name “Bharat”, which originated from ancient times and its citizens as Bharatiyas, rather than “Indians” or “Hindustanis”.

“Hindustanis” in Suriname, then, was equivalent to the term “Indian Indentureds” sometimes used in British Guiana by British officialdom. “Coolie” was

also routinely used in both country. We should note that the term “Kantraki” is also used in Suriname, as is “Girmitiya” nowadays by scholars such as Ruben Gowricharn”, to highlight the agency of most indentureds in making the decision to leave their country destroyed by British Colonialism in signing the indentureship contract or agreement.

As Bhagwan pointed out – and we have done so repeatedly before - “Girmit” is a mispronounciation by Fijian Indian Indentureds, of the word “agreement”. The Bhojpurized “Girmitiya” refers to the “people of that agreement” – as does the Surinamese “Kantraki”.

What the word emphasizes is the commonality of the living conditions, dictated by the contract under which indentureds laboured on the

plantations in each of the countries to which they were shipped. The anomalous penal clause for civil breaches by the indentureds; t h e a b y s m a l ranges/barracks/logies in which they were housed; the disparity in women shippedin etc., inevitably played an outside role in shaping their culture and concomitant identities. It is not by accident that alcololism, suicide and domestic violence are pathologies in Girmitiya societies along with the vaunted economic successes. The attenuation of caste and regional loyalties are thus the tip of the multitudinous changes that were generated which made it almost impossible for those who repatriated to India, to reintegrate into that society.

I was personally first (Continued on page 6)

PAGE 06

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

ANUG has its work cut out From page 4 parties have played in Guyanese history and that the APNU+AFC coalition government had not fulfilled its mandate to reform the system, ANUG argued that such political behaviour has us all wanting to believe that political promises mean nothing.

It rejected this position and went on to promise that 'Our party undertakes that it will never enter a coalition with any other political party or any of its members for the purpose of securing a role in government.'

ANUG was thus formed to improve the moral basis of politics in Guyana, but lo and behold, it is now locked in a controversy with Ms. Asha Kissoon because, although 'two wrongs don't make a right,' it colluded with her in doing perhaps worst than it claimed it would not do: they took from the PPP what that party had no historical or moral authority to give and what is against the interest of the electorate.

Historically, the deputy speakership goes to the opposition, and during the elections campaign the PNC was lambasted for usurping that position after the 2015 elections.

By taking the deputy speaker's position, ANUG also joined the side of the PPP in its quarrel with the PNC and so lost much of its multiethnic moral capacity.

True, it was a member of a

joinder group that took the position, but it could have firstly argued for a refusal of the position and if the other parties insisted upon this gift from the PPP, made a public objection to their doing and take no further part in the arrangement. In a sense, Asha Kissoon is merely now following in the footsteps of ANUG: taking and keeping what does not now belong to her!

A discourse is raging over arrangements for the 2020 elections and the opposition is calling for significant reform of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). It wants the dismissal of the chairperson who it claims has been consistently voting with the government side of the commission, a new list of voters and biometrics.

There are other issues t h a t n e e d legal/administrative clarity, e.g. campaign financing, the length of time it takes for the courts to complete elections petitions, the authority GECOM has to decided upon the complaints it receives before calling the elections for any party (I will not dwell here upon the reckless position ANUG took on this issue during the 2020 elections) etc. Yet having recently met the Carter Centre during their latest fact-finding mission, reportedly '(Mr. Timothy) Jonas (the former ANUG chairperson) expressed the

view that the electoral system was essentially sound; highlighting that it was the transparency of the process which allowed the public to be immediately alerted by the attempt to undermine the process in 2020' (SN: 08/07/2024).

If Dr. Mark France and the new ANUG executive is to make any impact during the coming elections 'de gat de wok cut out fu dem'. It is true that parties do change their positions, but it is important in a competitive democratic environment for them to keep their constituencies and the electorate informed in a timely manner and to persistently lobby for their interests. ANUG was formed knowing that the PPP and PNC are ethnically-based political parties that over decades have kept Guyana impoverished and divided.

By sheer luck some wealth has dropped into the coffers of the current PPP regime, but instead of focusing on using it in the people's interest, it is squandering it to bolster its autocracy. Dr. France has restated that his party intends to end the winner-takes-all system of government. This is good but in the context of the above discourse, it would be useful for him to urgently provide some details of what he intends on this and a range of other issues.

Sincerely Dr. Henry Jeffrey

Girmitiya: What's in a name?

From page 5 exposed to this commonality of identity at the “Global Organization of People of Indian Origin” (GOPIO) launch at the Sheraton in NYC in August 1989. I was Co-Chair of the “Conference on Political Participation” and then led a breakout session of the Girmitiya countries in which Guyana's Cheddi Jagan, TT's Basdeo Panday and delegated from Fiji and South Africa etc participated. Some of us later met at my home in New Jersey where we were amazed at how much we had in common, in addition to the “dhall and rice” we ate with our fingers.

With heightened consciousness assisted by improved communications, the term “Girmitiya” is spreading rapidly far beyond Fiji and Mauritius which had early contacts.

Presently, South African Indentureds are experiencing a renaissance under the Girmitiya banner. India itself has begun referring to “Girmitiya countries”. There is no “correct” was to refer to oneself – simply that which is felt to be most appropriate depending on the place, time and circumstances.

Sincerely, Ravi Dev

Kaieteur News

PAGE 07

PAGE 08

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

ExxonMobil took 179M barrels of oil in 2024, gave Guyana 26M barrels

ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

In keeping with the provisions of the lopsided 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), ExxonMobil benefitted from a massive 179 million barrels of sweet light crude produced in Guyana’s resource-rich Stabroek Block, while the country merely collected 26 million barrels.

This information was presented by the Ministry of Natural Resources on Sunday, in an advertisement published in Kaieteur News.

The ministry offered insight into the key achievements of not only the oil and gas sector, but the mining, and forestry industries as well.

One of the highlights for this year, under the petroleum sector, were the total lifts of crude exported as of November 30, 2024. It should be noted that each lift totals one million barrels of oil.

The ministry reported, “205 lifts of crude were exported as of 30th November, 2024. The GOG benefited from 26 lifts of profit oil executed a t November 30.”

This means that the operator of the block, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, and its partners, Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited enjoyed the bulk of oil produced during the period, amounting to 179 lifts, or 179M barrels of oil.

According to the 2016 PSA, 75% of the oil produced monthly shall be recovered by Exxon as cost. Exxon also

benefits from another 12.5% of oil produced in Guyana, which is recorded as its profits.

Despite ongoing calls for the government of Guyana to renegotiate the terms of the oil deal with Exxon, the administration is reluctant to engage the companies, saying that to do so would be a breach of the ‘sanctity of contract’ principle and likely loss of future investments.

Presently, EMGL is producing oil from three projects in the Stabroek Block including the Liza One, Liza Two and Payara. The ministry’s ‘achievements’ indicated that oil production surged to 624,000 barrels per day (bpd).

In the meantime, the ministry noted, “Guyana’s export value surged by a record 77% in 2024, powered by the country’s rapidly expanding oil and gas sector, according to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean’s (ECLAC) latest trade report”.

Furthermore, the spotlight was placed on the capping stack that has been procured by Exxon as part of its oil spill readiness.

According to the operator, this capping stack is one of only 13 in the world and one of the only two in Latin America.

A capping stack is a heavy piece of equipment that is placed over a blown out well.

It acts as a cork to limit the flow of hydrocarbons.

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

PAGE 09

Exporters are beIng left to fend for themselves Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has a new mantra: exporters must advocate.

Fight for fair access within CARICOM. Challenge unjust barriers. It sounds empowering. It shifts responsibility. It also ignores reality. Advocacy alone cannot dismantle restrictive trade barriers rooted in systemic abuse of phytosanitary regulations.

But what is a phytosanitary measure? It's a l e g a l , r e g u l a t o r y, o r administrative action.

Designed to protect plants from pests, diseases and harmful organisms.

Governments enforce them.

The goal? Stop the spread of pests across regions or borders. Measures vary from outright bans to quarantine

requirements, fumigation requirements and processing standards.

It is asking too much of exporters to take the lead in dismantling trade-restrictive phytosanitary measures. It is the government which must lead in this regard.

Jagdeo must know this.

The Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO) exists for a reason. It protects against arbitrary barriers. It requires measures to be science-based, transparent and non-discriminatory.

The SPS provides safeguards. Governments must base their sanitary and phytosanitary measures on scientific evidence.

Measures must be supported

by risk assessments and cannot be arbitrary or unjustified. For example, a country cannot ban imports of a particular fruit without demonstrating that it poses a scientifically verified risk to plant health.

The SPS Agreement encourages countries to align their measures with international standards and guidelines. This harmonization reduces the likelihood of arbitrary or protectionist policies. It is for Guyana to push CARICOM in this direction. It is for Guyana to ensure that this harmonization is endorsed within the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC).

The SPS Agreement also provides that measures must not unfairly discriminate

'Govt. blocking citizens' efforts to bring ExxonMobil ...

From page 3 Gas-to-Energy (GTE) Permit, issued to Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)- the subsidiary of ExxonMobil Corporation. That case was filed by Vanda Radzik and Elizabeth Hughes. They had asked the Court to quash the Permit since Exxon had no evidence that it owned the land through which the GTE pipeline will pass through, when it applied to the EPA seeking approval for the initiative.

In their application to the Court, Radzik and Deane-Hughes stated that Pursuant to Regulation 17 (2)(c)(iii) of the Environmental Protection (Authorisation) Regulations, an application for an environmental authorization must contain “proof that the applicant either owns the facility or has a lease or other agreement with the landowner or occupier to enable the applicant to conduct the activity without the consent of the landowner or occupier.”

Government applied to the Court to join the matter and was approved as a second respondent this past week. It is actively challenging the Guyanese women in the matter. The High Court is expected to hand down its decision on the alleged breach of the rule of law in September this year.

STARK CONTRAST In light of these cases and other positions taken by the government on the issue of the oil

sector, Ram said this stance now taken by the administration starkly contrasts the pre 2020 declarations of the Vice President where he said that “they sold us out to the foreigners” and his commitment “to renegotiate what he then termed a lopsided contract.” “What makes this situation particularly troubling is that such a consequential decision (referendum) about Guyana's oil patrimony was announced not by President Ali, who holds constitutional authority over such matters, or by the Prime Minister, who is constitutionally the First Vice President, but by his Vice President. This irregular chain of command raises serious questions about who truly drives Guyana's oil sector policy,” Ram underscored. Furthermore, he said the President's silence while his Vice President makes pronouncements on matters of supreme national importance represents a troubling abdication of executive responsibility. “The Constitution vests the President with executive authority to ensure clear, accountable leadership – not a ceremonial role,” Ram pointed out. Despite numerous calls by civil society and the opposition parties for the referendum to be held before or alongside the 2025 elections, the Vice President has a different plan. A referendum is a general vote by the electorate on a single political question that has been referred to them for a direct decision.

DEM BOYS SEH

When maths is not yuh strong point!

Dem boys seh how one political party in Guyana decide fuh polish up dem image.

People been whispering all over how dis particular party can't even divide properly.

People were talking how de party gat a problem with maths and especially when it comes to finding the halve of something.

Yall know which party dem boys talking about. No name. No warrant.

De party was so concerned about de battering dem image tekkin that it decide, “Leh we prove we smartness!” De idea?

Host a big maths competition live on Facebook so de whole country could see how bright de leaders of dis party really are.

So it set up a little quiz with one leader questioning another. And with a live audience of other party leaders to cheer and clap.

One leader tek de mic and start quizzing

another leader. Fuh mek things look good, dem start easy-easy. De man ask, “What's twenty plus three?”

De second leader screw up he face, scratch he head, and then lean into de mic like he solving a calculus problem, he seh, “Nine?”

De place went dead silent fuh two seconds, then all de other leaders start holler, “Give he another chance! Give he another chance!”

De quizmaster seh, “Alright, leh we go simpler.” He ask, “What's two plus two?” De second leader tek bout 30 seconds again, as if he calculating VAT, then seh hesitatingly, “Four?”

De whole room exploded wid a chorus from de other leaders, “Give he another chance! Give he another chance!...”

Talk half. Leff half

between countries where identical or similar conditions exist. For instance, if a country allows imports from one country with similar pest risks, it must not arbitrarily restrict imports from another country under similar circumstances.

Under the SPS, governments must ensure that their measures are no more trade-restrictive than necessary to achieve their health objectives. They must explore alternative measures that address risks without unnecessarily impeding trade.

Words mean nothing without action. The Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) promises free trade. It envisions economic integration. The SPS principles can strengthen it.

Ye t , J a g d e o a n d h i s government have done little to ensure that CARICOM aligns with the SPS Agreement.

The RTC itself is clear. It prohibits measures that unfairly restrict trade. But it needs teeth. Without explicit integration of SPS principles, it lacks the strength to deter unfair practices. Jagdeo must know this. He knows that Guyana can push for reforms.

Regional regulations that mandate adherence to SPS rules. Yet, he deflects. Why? Guyana itself is no stranger to violating the RTC. Trade barriers have been erected. Commitments ignored. Regional

integration undermined. The Caribbean Court of Justice has issued rulings against Guyana. Not once. More than once. How can a country with such a record demand compliance from others? The hypocrisy is glaring. It undermines moral authority.

It erodes credibility.

President Irfan Ali once declared a mission. He would dismantle barriers to trade within CARICOM. He spoke of a CARICOM market liberated from unfair restrictions. The promise was grand. The delivery has been abysmal.Jagdeo should remember those promises.

He should recognize their failure. Instead, he shifts the burden onto exporters. A convenient diversion. A tactic of avoidance.

Exporters can advocate.

They can lobby. They can even mount legal challenges.

But they cannot enforce treaties. They cannot compel CARICOM states to comply with SPS principles. That is the government's role. It is their duty to lead. To engage diplomatically. To negotiate reforms.

Failure to act has consequences. Guyanese goods face barriers in regional markets.

Agricultural products are vulnerable. Perishable goods delayed. Opportunities lost.

T h e e c o n o m y s u ff e r s .

Jagdeo's rhetoric ignores this. He pretends advocacy is enough.

The solution is clear.

Incorporate SPS principles into the RTC. Mandate adherence across CARICOM. Establish a regional mechanism to resolve disputes swiftly.

Create penalties for noncompliance.

This requires leadership.

Guyana must lead the charge.

It must push for regional adoption of SPS standards. It must hold CARICOM states accountable. This is not an exporter's job. It is a government's job.

Jagdeo's challenge to exporters is a distraction. The real challenge is his own. The challenge of leadership. The challenge of delivering on promises.

Regional trade depends on fair rules. Rules that prevent abuse. Rules that foster trust. The framework exists. The opportunity is clear. The question is simple: will Jagdeo and his government act? Or will they continue to pass the buck? If history is any guide, the answer is obvious.

Leadership is absent.

Responsibility is deflected.

And exporters? Left to fend for themselves.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Monday December 16, 2024

Guyana Police Force - 5,000 finest I love it. Well done, I say to the 5,000 in the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The PPP Government stepped up with $173 million in thank you(s), and should be showed up. I do. And to the 5,000 senior and junior recipients in the GPF, a warm thank you on behalf of all Guyanese. This is as good a December present as has been received in a long time. Now for the rough sailing.

Best Cop, Best Detective, and the best of and such and such all have a resounding echo, an inspiring ring. Runners-up are not forgotten, not even those who were edged out in making the honorable mention mark. Good cops, good records, and 5,000 of them.

A sizable number and a probably huge fraction of the Force, indeed. From that

context, comes this spoiler, the first hard question. With so many good cops, why are they still so many bad ones?

The GPF is not the New York Police Department, with its overall strength of about 40,000 bodies, of which approximately 30,000 are in uniform. So, 5,000 of that 30,000 is a mere 16% at best.

Follow my train here: I am thinking of how this could be in the GPF, with 5,000 professional and industrious and trusted ones, which must be at least one on four, if not as many as one in two of the total GPF strength, at its best?

To clear the air, the thrust of my inquiry has absolutely nothing to do with the qualifying criteria for recognition, nor the selection process. My focus is that with 5,000 noblemen and noblewomen in the GPF,

there should not be anywhere close to the number of bad cops in this most crucial of national agency.

For sure, there will be bad cops, like there are bad doctors and lawyers; and, if I may be permitted, bad ministers and bad pandits and priests and maulanas.

But with so many good cops (duly honored) in such a small force, that is a considerable presence in and of itself. What is meant by this?

At any time that there are 5,000 pairs of eyes, 5,000 ears, and 5,000 mouths in 5,000 ethical minds, they must be seeing and hearing and speaking from the thinking that comes. About wrongdoing in the GPF. About who the rogue cops are. About who knows in the upper management ranks of

the GPF and who does nothing.

About who themselves (seniors) may be part and parcel of, er, what doesn’t match up well with the mission statement and the policy and procedural manuals of the GPF. In a shorter version: who condones, who covers up.

Here is something to think about fellow citizens.

If Guyana has 50 vibrant and devoted presences, untarnished and unselfish ones, in civil society, what kind of different country there could be. For clarity, 50, not 5,000, not even 500.

Incidentally, unselfish should be given a political interpretation. I assert, I insist, that 5,000 is one hell of a formidable and feared presence. At least, it should be.

Because those tempted to push the envelope of abuse would be anxious of discovery, fearful of a misstep. Because those who may be inclined to view the GPF as a channel to shakedown the law-abiding, or hold the lawbreaking to ransom, would be compelled to think twice. Too many eyes,with even the night having eyes. Eyes that see, and record.

And report.

For the record, let it be noted that I am blindly accepting that each of those 5,000 hailed and haloed police officers and ranks are truly deserving

of their verbal accolades, their hefty reward packages. I am trusting the process that came up with 5,000 good cops, out of the ordinary Guyanese policemen and policewomen. May I not have committed a fatal blunder.

A quick scan of the news noted that the 5,000 operate in many different sections of the GPF. More good news.

My expectation, therefore, is that the roads will get a facelift. Not City Council facelift, but traffic enforcement facelift. Since I am proven glutton for punishment, there is another expectation, which represents another facelift.

When citizens with a problem contact the GPF, they get a satisfactory response and professionally responsible action.

When there is a huge development that envelops the GPF in a cloud (alleged high fraud at high levels, massive drug busts, among others) that the top police management makes it a duty to inform the Guyanese people properly and early.

In a small GPF with 5,000 pleasing ones, there are more than enough bodies to create quite a racket over malfeasances and malingering, and assorted other mischiefs. There must be more noise, more e x p o s u r e s , a k a whistleblowing, if a

conspicuous dent is going to be put in the perception of what the GPF is about, how it goes about its sensitive business.

Buoyed by the news of 5,000 good cops, my expectations are sky-high.

More than the perception of how the GPF has deteriorated must be vanquished, the reality must be erased. One last thing from me personally to Top Cop Hicken and Crime Chief Blanhum: I still have cybercrimes committed against me that remain unsolved. I am of the firm belief that both of these fine officers and gentlemen in the GPF know who the perps are. I help them: in and out of parliament.

Both must remember also that no one is above the law, and that no law-abiding citizen’s rights should be trampled upon. Not even when oilmen and the henchmen of headmen are involved.

D o d u t y, commissioners. More could be added to that finest 5,000 in the GPF. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this newspaper.)

Monday December 16, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

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Monday December 16, 2024

Change of Govt. or not, Hess sees no fiscal risk to Stabroek Block contract

By Renay Sambach Whether the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) retains power after the anticipated 2025 General and Regional Elections or a new administration assumes office, Hess Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), John Hess, is confident there will be no fiscal risks to the contract governing operations in the Stabroek Block.

During an interview with an international research institute, John Hess, expressed confidence that the next government will uphold the fiscal terms of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA).

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) operates the Stabroek Block in partnership with Hess and CNOOC. The agreement exempts the oil companies from paying taxes directly, with Guyana covering these costs, and allows the companies to recover up to 75% of their investments before the remaining 25% is split. Of this, Guyana receives 12.5%, in addition to a 2% royalty paid by the oil companies.

G u y a n a ’s p o l i t i c a l landscape features three major parties, each with its own stance regarding the

CEO of Hess Corporation, John Hess

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Leader of the AFC, Nigel Hughes

Leader of PNCR, Aubrey Norton

renegotiation of the Stabroek Block oil deal. The PPP/C has firmly stated that it will uphold the sanctity of contracts and will not renegotiate the agreement.

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), while not committing to a renegotiation, has expressed a desire to engage with ExxonMobil to secure greater benefits for the Guyanese people.

Meanwhile, the Alliance For Change (AFC) has also adopted a cautious approach regarding renegotiation.

While the current government has acknowledged that the deal benefits the oil companies more than it does the country – the Irfaan Ali-led

administration has taken the stance to not make changes to the contract, touting sanctity of contract. Hess described the Stabroek Block partners’ relationship with the Irfaan Ali-led administration as “strong” and one that they are grateful for. “I think President Ali is doing an outstanding job leading his country building a policy for shared prosperity for every Guyanese citizen…” Hess added.

In relation to the current administration, Hess said, “Look the government has been very clear that you know they will honour the contract, they will honour the fiscal terms, they will hold us accountable to that and their biggest

encouragement is you know let’s develop these oil resources and gas ultimately as safely, quickly and economically as we can and Exxon as operator and we as a joint venture are continuing to do that.”

Notably, during the interview, it was highlighted that the new PSA for future oil deals includes higher royalties and an income tax provision, marking an improvement to the terms governing the Stabroek Block. When asked whether there have been any changes to the Stabroek Block agreement since its royalty was increased from 1% to 2%, Hess confidently stated, “No, and the government has assured us that they will not

change the terms they want us to develop the oil.” Hess explained that the sooner the Stabroek Block partners recoup their investments, which to date is over US$55 billion, the sooner the Guyanese government will see a larger share.

NO FISCAL RISKS Moreover, when asked in the scenario of a change of government, if he sees any fiscal risk, Hess affirmed, “No, no.”

In September, Leader of th e P eo p le’s N atio n al Congress Reform (PNC/R), Aubrey Norton unveiled his party’s 20-point plan for the oil and gas sector, promising to review the lopsided 2016 deal that was signed by the Coalition Government of

which he was part of with US oil major ExxonMobil.

Norton, who has shied away from saying if elected he will “renegotiate” the contract had outlined the coalition’s key strategies for managing the oil and gas s e c t o r, w i t h a h e a v y emphasis on ensuring Guyanese benefits more from its abundant oil resources. Following the announcement, the plan was criticised for lacking commitment to actually make changes to the deal.

Further, Nigel Hughes, prominent attorney and elected leader of the AFC has taken a cautious stance regarding the contentious issue of renegotiating the oil deal. Days before his election as leader Hughes declined to comment on the potential renegotiation of the contentious 2016 oil deal saying that the company is a client of his law firm.

Hughes has stated that while he is unable to comment on renegotiating the lopsided deal, he has other plans if elected. He stated, “What I have said is that I will set up committees and if we get into government, commissions that are specifically dedicated to dealing with oil, generally.”

Werk-en-Rust transformed with vibrant Mural, community clean-up

T h e We r k - e n - R u s t , Georgetown community has taken a significant step toward revitalisation and spreading holiday cheer with the completion of a vibrant mural at the corner of Leopold and Bredda Streets.

This initiative is part of the o n g o i n g We r k - e n - R u s t Transformation Project, spearheaded by community leader Malika Boxhill with support from Policy Forum Guyana (PFG). In a press release PFG said the mural, created by local artist Nigel Butler, was completed on December 15, 2024, and stands as a symbol of hope and unity for the community.

Alongside this artistic contribution, residents came together for a community cleanup and fence painting, reflecting a collective commitment to improving their neighborhood.

“This project is about showing the youths in our community that someone cares,” said Malika Boxhill. “Living in this community, I’ve seen the potential in our young people. When they know someone believes in them, they can accomplish incredible things.”

Nigel Butler, who volunteered his time and talent to create the mural, added, “Art has the power to

The community members who completed the mural

inspire and transform. Being part of this project was a privilege, and I hope the mural brings joy to everyone who sees it.” Benita Davis, Project Coordinator of Policy Forum Guyana, also expressed her support: “We’ve had the pleasure of partnering with Malika in the past, and we are proud to continue supporting the Werk-en-Rust community. This mural is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together to uplift and empower those around us.”

The mural at the corner of Leopold and Bredda Streets

T h e We r k - e n - R u s t Transformation Project is a community-driven initiative that aims to improve living conditions in the area, which has faced significant challenges over the

years. Malika, who also provides free lessons in school subjects, art, craft, and sewing to local children, continues to work tirelessly to create opportunities for residents and inspire pride in their

c o m m u n i t y. P o l i c y F o r u m Guyana’s support for this project is part of its broader mission to promote environmental stewardship and empower communities across the country.

Monday December 16, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Company that won large subsea contract in Guyana eyes another large one for Exxon’s 7th project TechnipFMC, a company that was awarded a large subsea contract for works on ExxonMobil Guyana Limited’s fifth project (Uaru Development) in the prolific Stabroek Block has its eyes set on a potential contract for Exxon’s seventh development-the Hammerhead project.

TechnipFMC is a leading technology provider to the traditional and new energies industry; delivering fully integrated projects, products, and services. Back in 2023, Technip had disclosed that they were awarded a contract between US$500 million and US$1 billion for subsea works on the Uaru development.

Notably, in an outlook update on subsea opportunities around the world in the next 24 months, Technip listed the potential for an over US$1 billion

TechnipFMC potential subsea opportunities in the next 24 months

BEACON Monument BP Guadalupe BP Tiber SHELL Leopard

REPSOL Block 29

EXXONMOBIL Hammerhead (Phase 7) TOTALENERGIES Block 58 WOODSIDE Calypso

subsea contract for Exxon’s Hammerhead project.

This year, ExxonMobil made an application to the Government of Guyana for its seventh project – Hammerhead. However, the chief policymaker for the sector, Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo made it clear that there is no guarantee approval would be granted.

Following the official application by the company, Jagdeo was asked to comment on the project when he announced that the government has discontinued an advertisement for a consultant to review the Hammerhead project.

According to him, the information the company presented was incomplete.

H o w e v e r, G u y a n a ’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has advanced their part in relation to the application that was made for Environmental Authorisation for its seventh project.

Exxon is aiming to receive environmental approval for the Hammerhead project next year. Exxon’s President

Alistair Routledge during a recently aired interview said, “Now, we’re initiating the Hammerhead project.

The first step is securing the environmental permit, which is underway. We’re hopeful that process will conclude next year.”

Hammerhead is located in the south-central portion of the Stabroek Block, approximately 160 km from Georgetown. Current plans include drilling via drill ships to produce oil using approximately 14 to 30 production and injection wells. Production is expected to begin in 2029 subject to the necessary regulatory approvals and operate for at least 20 years.

In the Project Summary submitted by Exxon to the EPA, the company explained that the project is expected to add 120,000 to 180,000 barrels of oil per day production capacity.

The Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel will be capable of storing approximately 1.4 to 2 million barrels of oil.

Continued on page 16

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

Monday December 16, 2024

Two killed in Tuschen smash-up - driver arrested after trying to flee Two persons are dead after an out-of-control car slammed into them as they were crossing the Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo early Sunday morning.

Dead are: 54-year-old Yvette Daniels and 48-yearold Vishnudat Mohabir, both of Tuschen Housing Scheme.

Police in a press release said that the accident occurred at about 02:00hrs.

The accident involved motorcar #PKK 9890, driven

by Vickash Dhunao, a 29year-old from Tuschen and the two pedestrians.

Enquiries disclosed that motorcar #PKK 9890 was proceeding east along the northern side of the Tuschen Public Road at a fast rate, when the front portion of the vehicle collided with the two pedestrians who were at the time crossing the road from north to south.

Police said as a result of the collision, the pedestrians were flung into the air and fell onto the road surface where they received severe injuries on their bodies.

The motorcar (PKK 9890) further collided with motorcar #PGG 5073 which was stationary on the northern side of the road, facing east, and then came to a halt about 100 yards from the accident scene. The driver fled the scene and was later arrested.

The two pedestrians were pronounced dead at the scene by the E.M.T personnel. Their bodies were escorted to Ezekiel Mortuary for storage, awaiting post-mortem examination.

A breathalyzer test was conducted on the driver and alcohol was found in his breath (.070% and .071% Micrograms).

The driver is presently in custody assisting with the investigation.

Corruption benefits the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor.

Say no to it

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

New $45M Lethem health administrative building, training centre commissioned

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A spanking new health administrative building and training centre costing approximately $45 million was commissioned in Lethem, Region Nine on Saturday.

The building which was solely funded by the government of Guyana will house various offices for the admin team of the regions health department and will also see a training area to facilitate persons who are a part of the ministrys hybrid programmes. As he commissioned the building, the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony stressed the importance of having all the heads of departments of health

within the region at one place.

This, he said, helps to make it easier to categorise the health services and locate the responsible personnel. “One of the things that we thought was important was to house all of the regional health officials under one roof. As you know we are offering a number of services and when we administer these services, we need to have all the people in the administration at one place,” Minister Anthony noted.

With the building being across the road from the Lethem Regional Hospital, the minister added that the proximity will help in better

management of the hospital.

Meanwhile, the regions health officer, Dr. Cerdel Mcwatt stated that the building will foster better cooperation among the regional health officials, making it easier to oversee the operations of the health system in Region Nine.“This unit now represents a structured approach for the entire region because all of the regional heads will be in this one building. It will also help to observe all of the clerical functions of the region,” the regional health officer pointed out. The upper flat of the building houses an open space to facilitate persons who are undergoing

training. This will ensure that learning takes place in a more conducive environment.

Prior to this, trainees were being taught in the annex building of the Infectious Disease Centre. This new building will comfortably hold approximately 40 students.

Additionally, at the side of the building is a new dormitory which will also accommodate students and even health officials. The construction of this new infrastructure showcases the commitment made by the government of ensuring that every public worker is being facilitated in a safe and opportune environment.

(DPI)

UK, IDB strengthen partnership for development in Latin America and the Caribbean been a steadfast partner in

The United Kingdom (UK) last week reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean by announcing that it will provide a robust support package to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs David Lammy and IDB President Ilan Goldfajn made the announcement during a meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados, the IDB said in a press release.

The package includes support for IDB Invest’s pioneering “Originate to Share” business model as well as plans to invest up to £80 million ($100 million) in its capital increase, with the potential of a fivefold increase in the UK’s share in the institution’s capital. This contribution reflects the UK’s confidence in IDB Invest and its track record of working with the UK to maximize private-sector-led development in the region.

The UK has also signaled its support for the replenishment of IDB Lab, the IDB’s innovation laboratory and

venture capital arm. In addition, the UK is offering up to £15 million ($19 million) to fund targeted initiatives in the Caribbean. The UK is providing support targeted especially to Caribbean countries.

This includes £5 million ($6.3 million) to support the ONE Caribbean Multidonor Trust Fund, which provides a strategic framework for improving climate adaptation and resilience, citizen security, private-sector engagement, and food security. The fund promotes regional cooperation and aims to maximize resources, strengthen the capacity of both the public and private sectors to tackle development challenges, and leverage economies of scale.

The fund directly benefits Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, The Bahamas, and Trinidad and Tobago.

In addition, the UK is providing up to £10 million ($12.7 million) to support COMPETE CARIBBEAN+, a new program that aims to foster sustainable economic growth while increasing the competitiveness of Caribbean compa-

Company that won large...

From page 13 Third-party oil tankers will be scheduled to offload the oil from the FPSO, making the oil available for export to the international market. Moreover, in a recent update TechnipFMC said that it has installed the first Subsea 2.0® equipment in the waters for the project. This marks a significant step in the project, with tubing head successfully locked into position using a Schilling UHD-II remotely operated vehicle (ROV).

The first Subsea 2.0® tree for the project is expected to be installed in the coming months. Subsea 2.0® is TechnipFMC’s configure-to-order subsea production system platform that uses pre-engineered components to streamline manufacturing and accelerate project delivery.

Guyana’s EPA granted the Environmental Permit for ExxonMobil’s fifth project at the Uaru field in the Stabroek Block last year. The Uaru project is expected to cost US$12.7 billion and produce about 250,000 barrels of oil per day after coming on stream in 2026.

TechnipFMC had explained that they will provide project management, engineering, and manufacturing to deliver the overall subsea production system. Also, the contract covers 44 subsea trees and associated tooling, as well as 12 manifolds and associated controls and tie-in equipment.

nies. It also aims to promote climate action and gender equality by sharing best practices and the latest development research with both private and public-sector actors.

The program specifically aims to benefit vulnerable communities in small island nations.

“The United Kingdom has

supporting the IDB’s work in addressing some of the pressing challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Together, we are advancing citizen security, bolstering climate resilience, and creating economic opportunities to (Continued on page 17)

New Amsterdam Hospital to get new CT scan, mammography machine Residents of Region Six will soon benefit from enhanced medical imaging services at the New Amsterdam Hospital as plans are underway to install a new Computerised Tomography (CT) scan machine and a mammography machine.

The announcement was made by Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony during the New Amsterdam School of Nursing graduation ceremony last week Monday.

Dr. Anthony noted that access to CT scans has been a challenge. He emphasised the importance of bridging this gap ahead of the construction of the new US$161 million state-of-the-art hospital in the region. “One of the things that you cannot access now because it is sometimes problematic is CT scans. And, while we wait for your new hospital to be built, we will be putting in a new CT scan machine at the New Amsterdam Hospital. We have already placed that on order and we are waiting for that to be delivered,” the minister stated.

Minister Anthony highlighted the significance of the soon-to-be-installed mammography machine which will enhance breast cancer screening services for women in Regions Five and Six. The installation of this crucial piece of equipment will alleviate the need for women to travel to Georgetown for screening. “We have already set up the room at the New

Amsterdam Hospital and they are waiting on the stabilisers so that they can put that in. I am hoping that will come before the year comes to an end.

“But more importantly, we have already the mammography machine and it is at the New Hospital waiting to be installed,” Dr. Anthony disclosed. Emphasising the importance of early detection, Dr. Anthony encouraged women to participate in screenings to prevent complications and reduce breast cancer fatalities.

He then pointed out, “Once we install this from next year, we want to have a very proactive programme where people can come out and get themselves tested. And if we see a lump, we should be able to do the image. If we think that it is suspicious, we will do a biopsy and if we do a biopsy and we find something wrong, then, we will take the necessary measures.”

Dr. Anthony also announced plans to expand access to mammography machines, with installations planned for hospitals in Essequibo, West Demerara, and Lethem. Additional machines will be procured in 2025 to serve other regions without such facilities. The government remains unwavering in its promise to build a robust healthcare system through significant investments in infrastructure, training, and advanced medical equipment. (DPI)

Monday December 16, 2024

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PAGE 17

Residents outraged as remains of Bartica woman decompose due to dysfunctional mortuary With a population of over 18,000 residents, the community of Bartica Region Seven has been faced with constant dilemma of not having adequate facility to store their dead.

The situation reached a boiling point recently when one woman's remains reportedly decomposed due to the faulty operations of the mortuary at Bartica.

Relatives of the deceased, Debra Gilkes have since expressed outrage following the incident.

Kaieteur News understands that when Gilkes passed away at the Bartica Hospital on November 30, 2024, her grieving relatives were left with no other choice than to transport her remains to new cold storage facility outside the hospital compound since the hospital mortuary is out of operation. The body was taken to the new mortuary facility on 7th Avenue Bartica where it was kept allegedly without adequate cold storage which resulted in the decomposition of the woman's remains.

Aggrieved relatives of the deceased in a written statement to the press expressed their disgust as they noted that they were unable to access the body in time for a proper burial.

Alliance for Change (AFC) Member of Parliament, (MP) and resident of Bartica Juretha Fernandes highlighted the situation during a recent press conference by her party. She explained that the keys could not be found for locks on the

door of the new facility. “…this continued for three days until the key was eventually located by that time the body was in a state of decomposition to such an extent that it was difficult to remove her remains from the refrigerator due to swelling.

No official had anything to say or offer…” Fernandes stated, adding that neither the Regional Health Officer), the Regional Executive Officer nor the Medical Superintendent (MS) took responsibility for t h e s i t u a t i o n .

She explained that as a result of the dysfunctional mortuary, the Gilkes family endured unnecessary heartache and in the end were unable to offer the departed loved one with a decent burial. “The Family couldn't even get some chemical or material to address the body.

The facility had no running water, no attendant, no security, and no proper drainage. So family had to pay for cleaning, bring water to be used in process of caring for the remains. The family is beyond words in despair… They are still grappling with the grief of not being able to provide their loved one with a dignified funeral,” she said.

The MP stated that the situation with the nonfunctioning mortuary is as a result of a series of administrative failures by the regional health officials.

She noted that “Fernandes noted that in addition to the significant financial strain,

Stolen Honda Vezel

The new mortuary opened on 7th Avenue Bartica

“At present, the family is seeking answers from Ministry of health, this is not an isolated incident there are a number of others. It has left the family hurt and wanting a n s w e r s ” According to the AFC MP

the family has received no communication or support from any regional official, who they say have failed to acknowledge their plight or provide assistance throughout the ordeal.

Kaieteur News reached to

officials from Bartica who explained that the mortuary has been dysfunctional for quite some time now. “It is a plight of the people of Bartica, when the mortuary was at the hospital, it always had problems with cold storage. Many times people were told to bring ice to keep the body.

There have always been lots of problems with the facility, the cold storage has been on and off, the drainage, no mortuary attendant, the porters have been doing the job,” the official said. “The new facility at 7th Avenue that the Regional Office commissioned has not been in operation for long enough but there are similar problems, no drainage, no attendant, no security and there appears to be a problem with the cooling. Hence the problem the family experienced with the decomposed body,” the

AFC Executive, Juretha Fernandes official added.

Meanwhile, when this newspaper contacted Regional Executive Officer of Bartica Kerwin Ward, he denied any issues with the cold storage capacity of the mortuary. He however admitted that the facility does not have a mortuary attendant and Bartica never had one. “We recently opened that facility and there are no problems. We have porters helping but we don't have a trained attendant like that, we are working on fixing, getting those things in place,” he claimed.

Modern $1B port, wharf facility to be developed in Charity Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) is slated for significant economic expansion, as the government will soon sign a contract to develop a massive, modern port facility in Charity.

According to His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, this massive investments forms part of a broader initiative to position the region as an international hub for export processing, serving as a vital link between local and regional markets. It will also tie in to the many investments being poured to advance and expand the tourism and hospitality sector of the Cinderella County.Speaking during an outreach event in Charity last Thursday, he said, “We have awarded the contract for the construction of a modern port facility and wharf here in Charity, for almost $1 billion.” President Ali underscored the project's importance, which he said will complement the region's expanding agriculture sector and provide a gateway for these products to reach the international markets. The

competitiveness of the region will also be boosted, aligning the productivity of the region with international markets.

Elaborating further on the project, the head of state revealed that the port will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to handle modern shipping and logistics demands. These include the construction of a wharf, which will facilitate docking and loading of cargo.He further explained, “It's not only about this port and wharf facility, it's about a facility of international standard, that would bring with it, other aspects of development, including a world-class packaging and storage facility.”The Ministry of Agriculture is working to develop this processing facility that will help process, package, and store products to ensure they meet international export requirements.Local farmers will benefit significantly from this undertaking, as they can store and process their products safely and efficiently.

“The Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce will tell you that the Bureau of Standards will establish a footprint here to ensure that all we are producing is within international and regional certification, so our products will not be hassled into getting into other markets,” the president explained.Another critical element of the project, includes the job creation as it is anticipated that persons will be needed in the fields of shipping, logistics, agriculture and related sectors. This will in turn stimulate local businesses involved in the supply chain.

This massive facility will complement the changing landscape of Region Two, as new hotels and stadiums are currently being constructed.

Notably, a state-of-the-art hospital in Lima is being developed to serve the expanding economy. These are among the many initiatives being rolled out to diversify the region's economy and transform it into a prosperous economic powerhouse. (DPI)

UK, IDB strengthen partnership for...

Honda Vezel stolen from in front Baroombar A black Honda Vezel, PAG, 7851 was stolen around 01:00hrs. on Sunday from in front of Baroombar, on North Road Georgetown.

On the front windscreen is the writing "Mr. Wick" in bold white. Inside the vehicle were the owner's ID card, personal documents and a Samsung 22 Plus cellphone.

A report was lodged at the Alberttown Police Station. If anyone knows the whereabouts of the car or who might have stolen it, please make contact with the police station on telephone number, 225-2672 or call +592 701-8019 or the nearest police station.

From page 16 improve lives and strengthen communities across the region,” said IDB President Ilan Goldfajn.

“As the son of Guyanese parents, I am living proof of the ties the UK shares with the Caribbean. Building our ties with these fast-growing economies in the region will make the UK and the Caribbean safer, stronger, more prosperous and more resilient against the climate crisis,” added UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs David Lammy at the Regional Security and Justice Summit in Bridgetown, Barbados.These contributions from the UK come in addition to the UK

Sustainable Infrastructure Program, or UKSIP, which was launched in 2017 and is a flagship partnership between the IDB and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. The program showcases the power of blended finance and publicprivate synergies.

Through the program, the UK uses concessional financing to support blended finance initiatives that enable IDB Invest to reduce funding costs for specific projects.

This is complemented by technical assistance from IDB operations, which addresses regulatory and institutional reforms to improve the operating environment for businesses. Together,

these elements ensure long-term project sustainability and maximize development impact.

Now in Phase II, UKSIP recycles reflows from Phase I projects to expand the program’s scope to climate adaptation, resilience, and nature-based solutions while its reach beyond Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru to include small and island countries in the Caribbean basin and Central America.

With potential UK contributions of up to £66 million ($84 million) by 2029, including £17 million ($21.6 million) already available this year for Blended Finance operations, UKSIP’s total funding could reach £177.5 million ($223.5 million).

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FAO launches first major global assessment of salt-affected soils in 50 years Bangkok – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has released its first major global assessment of saltaffected soils in 50 years.

The report shows that nearly 1.4 billion hectares of land (just over 10 percent of the total global land area) are already impacted by salinity, with an additional one billion hectares at risk due to the climate crisis and human mismanagement.

The Global Status of Salt-Affected Soils report was presented today during the International Soil and Water Forum 2024 in Bangkok. The event, coorganized by FAO and Thailand's Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, discussed an action plan for halting and reversing soil degradation and water scarcity.

Excessive salinity reduces the fertility of soils and severely impacts e n v i r o n m e n t a l s u s t a i n a b i l i t y. I n t h e countries most affected by this issue, salinity stress can lead to crops yield losses –

such as rice or beans – of up to 70 percent. This comes at a time when there is an urgent need to boost food production to feed a growing global population.

The report estimates the area of salt-affected soils at 1 381 million ha (Mha), or 10.7 percent of the total global land area. It further estimates that 10 percent of irrigated cropland and 10 percent of rain-fed cropland are affected by salinity, although uncertainty remains high due to limited data availability. Models of global aridity trends indicate that, under the existing trend of temperature increase, the affected area may increase to between 24 and 32 percent of the total land surface. The vast majority of aridification is expected to occur in developing countries.

Today, 10 countries (Afghanistan, Australia, Argentina, China, Kazakhstan, the Russian Federation, the United States, Iran, Sudan, and Uzbekistan) account for 70 percent of the world's saltaffected soils.

The drivers of salinisation are both natural and induced by humans The climate crisis is increasing aridity and freshwater scarcity. Rising sea levels are projected to place more than one billion people in coastal zones at risk of progressive flooding and salinisation by the end of the century. Additionallly, global warming is contributing to salinisation through the thawing of permafrost.

Inadequate agricultural practices also play a significant role. These include irrigating crops with poor-quality water, inadequate drainage, deforestation and the removal of deep-rooted vegetation, excessive water pumping in coastal and inland areas, the overuse of fertilisers, de-icing agents, and mining activity. Global freshwater use, in particular, has increased sixfold during the last century, contributing to groundwater salinisation due to the overexploitation of aquifers for irrigation purposes.

Call for action Since salt-affected soils account for at least 10 percent of land, their sustainable management is crucial to meet growing food demands.

The report offers a series of strategies for managing salt-affected soils sustainably. Mitigation strategies include mulching, using interlayers of loose material, installing drainage systems and improving crop rotations. Adaptation strategies include breeding salt-tolerant plants (such as halophytes, which flourish in mangrove swamps, tropical sand and cliff shorelines, and even salt deserts) and bioremediation – using bacteria, fungi, plants or animals to remove, destroy or sequester hazardous substances from the environment.

By highlighting the critical link between sustainable soil management, water quality, and food production, “the report outlines strategies for the recovery of agricultural salt-affected soils, including

Journalist, Gaza Civil Defence workers killed in Israeli strike (ALJAZEERA) An Israeli air strike has killed Palestinian journalist Ahmed Al-Louh and five Palestinian Civil Defence workers in central Gaza's Nuseirat camp.

Al-Louh, who worked as a cameraman for Al Jazeera alongside other media outlets, was killed on Sunday in the strike on the Civil Defence post in the central Gaza camp, according to medics and local journalists.

The attack occurred as Israeli military strikes across the Gaza Strip killed at least 28 Palestinians on Sunday, medics said. Allouh is the third journalist killed in Gaza in the last 24 hours.

Al Jazeera Arabic reported that Allouh was working while killed, wearing a press vest and helmet. He was taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Gaza's city of Deir el-Balah. Al Jazeera Media Network condemned Al-Louh's killing, and called on human rights and media organisations “to condemn the Israeli Occupation's systematic killing of journalists in cold blood, the evasion of responsibilities under international humanitarian law, and to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice”.

“We urge relevant international legal institutions to take practical and urgent measures to hold the Israeli authorities and all those who are responsible accountable for their heinous crimes and to adopt

mechanisms to put an end to the targeting and killing of journalists,” the network added.

Al-Louh had been covering Israel's war on Gaza when it first began in October 2023, embedded with the Gaza Strip's Palestinian Civil Defence teams, Al Jazeera's Hind Khoudary said. “It's another heartbreaking day for Palestinians, Civil Defence teams, journalists.

We [have been] wondering, how many times are we going to continue reporting on the killing[s] of our colleagues and beloved ones?”

Khoudary said, reporting from Deir elBalah.

Gaza's media office said the head of the civil emergency service in Nuseirat, Nedal Abu Hjayyer, was also killed in Sunday's attack. “The civil emergency headquarters in Nuseirat camp was hit during the crews' presence. They work around the clock to serve the people,” said Zaki Emadeldeen from the civil emergency service to reporters at the hospital.

“The civil emergency service is a humanitarian service and not political.

They work in war and peace times for the service of the people,” he said, adding that the place was hit directly by an Israeli air strike.

The Israeli military said they were looking into the attack. Several other Palestinian journalists were killed this past week, with 195 killed in Gaza since Israel's war began, Khoudary said. Al

Jazeera's Hani Mahmoud said earlier on Sunday that Palestinian journalist Mohammed Jabr al-Qrinawi was killed along with his wife and children in an Israeli air attack that targeted their home in Bureij refugee camp, in central Gaza, late on Saturday.

Earlier on Saturday, Al Mashhad Media said its journalist Mohammed Balousha was killed in an Israeli attack in Gaza. Several Al Jazeera journalists have been killed since the start of Israel's war on Gaza, including Ismail al-Ghoul, Rami al-Rifi, Samer Abudaqa and Hamza Dahdouh.

Also on Sunday, an air strike hit people protecting aid trucks west of Gaza City. Medics said several were killed or wounded but exact figures were unavailable as of yet. Residents also said at least 11 people were killed in three separate Israeli air strikes in Gaza City. Nine were killed in the towns of Beit Lahiya, Beit Hanoon and Jabalia camp when clusters of houses were bombed or set ablaze, and two were killed by drone fire in Rafah.

Earlier on Sunday, at least 15 Palestinians were killed after Israeli forces stormed Khalil Oweida School in Beit Hanoon, sources told Al Jazeera.

Several other Israeli attacks earlier on Sunday killed Palestinians near Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza; and in Shujayea, in Khan Younis. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, at least 44,976 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since October 7, 2023.

The climate crisis and human mismanagement are contributing to excessive salinisation, which, according to the report, affects more than 10 percent of the total global land area.

emerging fields like saline agriculture and salinity bioremediation,” Lifeng Li, Director of FAO's Land and Water Division, and Jorge Batlle-Sales, Chair of the International Network of Salt-affected Soils (INSAS), wrote in its Forward.

The report also calls for a legal framework at the national and international levels to safeguard natural saline ecosystems and ensure the sustainable management of agricultural soils under irrigation, particularly in areas at risk of salinisation. The main goal is to protect productivity, quality, and overall soil health, ensuring food quality and quantity for future generations.

Water reports The Bangkok event also saw the release of two progress reports by FAO. The first shows trends in

water-use efficiency at global, regional and national levels, offering insights into the progress achieved and providing recommendations to accelerate efforts towards the sustainable use of water resources. The second progress report examines trends in pressure on renewable freshwater resources from the economic sectors at a global, regional and national level. The report highlights the challenges faced by regions where water stress levels are critical, particularly in terms of food security. The progress reports address SDG indicators – 6.4.1 and 6.4.2, for which FAO is the custodian agency. Both indicators are critical for agricultural productivity and resilience, as well as for food security, ecosystem balance, and enhanced climate resilience.

Left behind, the thief's bicycle

Thief ditches bike for a swim in hasty get-away A businesswoman on Saturday night pulled up just in time to see a thief leaving her property at Nouvelle Flanders, West Coast Demerara (WCD), with her solar light.

When he saw her, he dropped his bicycle and the solar light before sprinting away.The homeowner gave chase in a vehicle but the thief plunged overboard into a nearby trench and swam away. Kaieteur News learnt that the bike was lodged with police and the woman is now seeking the public's help to identify who owns the bicycle

The solar light he tossed away

Monday December 16, 2024

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PAGE 19

Gold miners sign new pact with Govt. for more duty-free concessions

T

he Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and the Government of Guyana has recently signed an Investment Development Agreement [IDA] for vehicles and spares for a period of two Years.

The Association will be meeting with the Guyana Revenue Authority shortly to discuss the working of the IDA and the requirements that miners need to meet to qualify for this incentive. This much was told miners when they met at the association’s 40th Annual General Meeting held on December 9, 2024.

At the meeting miners resolved to strategise and work together for greater growth in the sector and President of the GGDMA, Ronaldo Alphonso noted that despite the many challenges the industry faced this year, it has only served to make the resolve of the miners stronger.

According to a press release by the GGDMA, Alphonso explained that even with drought and labour issues the industry must work for sustainable growth and develop and capitalise on new opportunities.

According to the association, in addition to the IDA, the government has partnered with the GGDMA for the development of several interior roads and bridges and the body has also been given a fast track to getting their issues ventilated with the various government departments via the establishment of a direct mining portal.

The GGDMA says it is heartened and grateful for the support that the Government continues to provide to the sector despite the petroleum boom and the rise of the construction sector. Additionally, the GGDMA sad its executives continued to meet regularly with President Irfaan Ali on the needs and support for the mining sector.

“The President has been fully supportive of the sector and has worked with the GGDMA to advance initiatives that will help bolster growth. As a result, the sector was able to get several benefits including: IDA on Vehicle and Spares; VAT exemptions on spares for machinery, spares for the dredges and all industrial grease and hydraulic oils. For those miners who sell directly to the Guyana Gold Board. This is now a part of the recently signed IDA with the government and is valid for two (2) years,” the release added.

Other benefits received from the government are: addressing labour shortages in the mining sector; three new roads for the mining sector plus $2.2B in rehabilitation works are currently being undertaken by the GGMC on existing roads. Toroparau to Kartuni Road, Kartuni to Cuyuni Road, and Toroparau to Makapa Road.

The opening up of lands for small and medium scale miners through Lotteries held by

GGMC; quarterly meetings with the Minister of Natural Resources and Technical Meetings with GGMC and Mining Direct Portal linking the GGDMA, MNR, GGMC and the GGB have also been cited.

“The GGDMA is satisfied with the support given to the sector by the current Government, noting that several of the concessions that were returned to them since 2020 have been maintained and efforts are being made to expand benefits for miners. The GGDMA is committed to continue working with the Government to achieve joint goals for the sector and stamp out illicit activities that negatively impact the sector,” the release stated.

Members at the meeting also raised the issue of the recent shortage of mercury which has seen the price skyrocket and some dealers exploiting the situation. Mr. Avalon Jagnandan, Administrator of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), has reiterated the Association’s unwavering dedication to representing the interests of all miners across the country.

Speaking on the association’s ongoing initiatives, Mr. Jagnandan emphasised, “The GGDMA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating on behalf of our members. We will continue to actively engage with the Government of Guyana and all key stakeholders to ensure the interests of the mining community are protected and advanced.”

As part of its outreach efforts, the GGDMA hosts regular open days, providing miners with an opportunity to meet with the executive team, raise issues of concern, and seek assistance.

Mr. Jagnandan encouraged all miners to take advantage of these sessions, underscoring the Association’s open-door policy and commitment to addressing members’ needs.

He added that the GGDMA remains a pillar of support for the mining sector, championing initiatives that promote sustainability, growth, and the well-being of its members.

The 40th AGM was held at the headquarters of the GGDMA. Marking a historic milestone, the event introduced a mini exhibition for the first time, offering suppliers and service providers an exceptional platform to showcase their products and services to the mining community.

Miners at the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) Annual General Meeting

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

PAGE 21

Pacers acquire C Thomas Bryant from Heat (Reuters) - The Indiana Pacers acquired center Thomas Bryant from the Miami Heat on Sunday.

The teams agreed to swap second-round picks in the 2031 NBA Draft, with the Heat keeping the more favorable of the selections.

Bryant is expected to be available for Indiana's game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday in Indianapolis.

Bryant, 27, is in his eighth season in the NBA and his second with the Heat. The 6foot-10 Bryant got into 10 games this season and averaged 4.1 points and 3.2 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per game, his lowest averages since his rookie year.

In 277 career games (138 starts) with the Los Angeles

Lakers (2017-18; 2022-23), Washington Wizards (201822), Denver Nuggets (2023) and Heat (2023-24), Bryant has averaged 9.3 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.

The Pacers were seeking a new backup center after both Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman were lost to torn Achilles tendons. Bryant played collegiately at Indiana.

Warriors acquire G Dennis Schroder from Nets The Golden State Warriors acquired point guard Dennis Schroder from the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.

Golden State sent injured guard De'Anthony Melton, two-way guard Reece Beekman and three unprotected second-round

Brooklyn Nets guard Dennis Schroder (Credit: Imagn Images)

picks to the Nets. Brooklyn is giving a 2025 second-round pick to the Warriors.

Monday December 16, 2024 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19 If you aren't careful about the energy you dish out today, Aries, you will find that it all comes back to smack you in the face. Other people are likely to be as stubborn as you, so proceed cautiously.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Today is a fantastic day for you, Taurus. You should enjoy a good mood and positive experiences with others. There's most likely a slow-moving, transforming energy in your life right now.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Other people may be demanding of you, Gemini, so do what you can to please them. Don't go overboard in thinking you need to be someone you're not.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You need bigger and longer hugs than usual today, Libra.

A powerful force is moving through your life and trying to shake things up. .

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Act with courage today, Scorpio. Dress as if you were going to meet an important statesman. See yourself in the mirror and be proud to say you look good.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Be conscious of your own needs, Sagittarius, and feel free to be a little selfish. Give yourself the credit you deserve, and don't let other people bully you into feeling like you aren't worthy of the attention you receive.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) People may be somewhat selfish and self-centered today, but this doesn't mean that you have to follow suit, Cancer.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your energy and spunk should finally return after a couple days of feeling slightly down, Capricorn.

You should enjoy a good mood all day.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) It may not be the easiest day to relate to others, Leo, but as usual, if you just go with the flow, you will find that you can have fun. Try not to get caught up in anyone else's drama.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) This is a good day to look at the big picture and discuss your ideas with others, Aquarius. As you walk down the street, make sure you pay attention to what's going on around you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Things should flow extremely well for you, Virgo. Load your engine with extra fuel, because you will be burning red hot. Don't let anything stand in your way.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your energy and spunk should finally return after a couple days of feeling slightly down, Capricorn.

You should enjoy a good mood all day.

In a corresponding transaction, the Nets requested waivers on

forward Yongxi Cui. Schroder averaged 18.4 points and a career-best 6.6 assists in 23 games for the Nets this season, sinking 38.7 percent of his 3-point attempts and averaging 1.1 steals.

Schroder, 31, is in his 12th NBA season and the Warriors will be his eighth team. He spent his first five seasons with the Atlanta Hawks before he began bouncing around the league.

Melton underwent season-ending surgery to repair a partially torn ACL in his left knee on Dec. 4.

Melton is expected to be fully recovered prior to the 202526 season.

He was injured during a game against the Dallas Mavericks on Nov. 12.

Melton, 26, averaged 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists in six games (two starts) this season.

Melton has career averages of 9.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 356 games (148 starts) with the Phoenix Suns (2018-19), Memphis Grizzlies (201922), Philadelphia 76ers (2022-24) and the Warriors.

The 6-foot-1 Beekman signed a two-way contract with the Warriors in July and played in two games with the team as well as nine with the Santa Cruz Warriors of the G League. The rookie averaged 18.7 points, 7.3 assists and 5.2 rebounds with Santa Cruz.Beekman, 23, went undrafted out of Virginia, where he played four seasons. He earned Atlantic Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors as a junior and senior.

The Nets signed Cui, a 21-year-old China native, to a two-way deal on Sept. 20. He appeared in five games for Brooklyn, scoring three points in 10 total minutes, and five games for the Long Island Nets, of the G League.

Olympic Kremlin...

From page 25 and Secret Traveller (Y. Kissonchand) respectively.

Red Ruby won the G Class and Lower SHI OIL and OBL Lounge sponsored race with Jockey D. Khelawan holding off the challenge of Jagdeo Racing Stables mate Theory of Colors (N. Patrick) Ruby's almost flawless ride broke the streak of come from behind victories down the homestretch as Stroke Of Luck (K. Paul) and American Traveller (C.Ross).

In the Guy America Construction sponsored H class, Amicable Kate (N. Abrigo) followed suit in the same vein as the earlier runs, getting an average start but storming to victory around the outside of Blinding Lights (Y.Kissoonchand), Haley (N. Patrick) and Amazing Grace (Y. Drepaul).

Kaieteur News

PAGE 22

Monday December 16, 2024

Premier League: Chelsea beat Brentford

to close in on leaders Liverpool (BBC Sport) - Chelsea moved within touching distance of Premier League leaders Liverpool with a narrow victory over Brentford at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca's side now sit second in the table two points behind the Reds, who have the advantage of having played a game less.

H o w e v e r, C h e l s e a ' s seventh consecutive win in all competitions will only serve to underline their status as genuine title contenders.

Marc Cucurella's firsthalf header set them on their way against Brentford, with the left-back stealing in to nod in from Noni Madueke's curling delivery from the right wing.

However, he was later shown a second yellow card after the final whistle to sour the evening for the Spaniard, who had scored his first goal since May 2022.

Chelsea's second came in the closing stages when centre forward Nicolas Jackson sprinted on to Enzo Fernandez's pass to dispatch a low shot past Bees goalkeeper Mark Flekken into the right corner.

T h e S e n e g a l international's effort came as Thomas Frank's side threatened to level in a match which the hosts had largely dominated.

Christian Norgaard's volley was superbly saved by home goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, while Fabio

Tottenham scored five first-half goals for the first time in a Premier League game Carvalho was unable to convert a gilt-edged opportunity - rattling the Chelsea crossbar, from close range.

However, the hosts were still made to hold on in a nervy finale after Bryan Mbeumo registered his 10th top-flight goal of the season, with a well-placed finish past Sanchez..

Sparkling Spurs thrash feeble Southampton Five goals in a rampant first half earned Tottenham a stunning victory at St Mary's Stadium to heap pressure on Southampton boss Russell Martin.

A strike inside 40 seconds

from James Maddison settled any pre-game nerves for Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, the England midfielder tucking home from Djed Spence's clever pass.Against a woefully open Saints defence, Tottenham's free-scoring attackers cleaned up, Son Heung-min firing past Alex McCarthy and Dejan Kulusevski tapping in from close range inside the first 15 minutes.

Amid angry boos from the stands, Martin's response was to abandon his four-man defence and revert to a back three, withdrawing a distraught Kamaldeen Sulemana straight after the

third goal.And yet it did not work as a shell-shocked Southampton were hit on the break by Son once more and he teed up Pape Sarr to dance through two half-hearted challenges and slot into the net.Spurs captain Son was denied three more times by McCarthy before Maddison smashed into the top of the net from a ridiculous angle deep into first-half stoppage time.

With Spurs fans delirious in the away end, some Southampton supporters took to the exits early, rightly anticipating little hope of a miracle comeback.

Matheus Fernandes did

think he had pulled one back in the 80th minute but his header was ruled out for offside.

The result leaves Saints nine points from safety and guaranteed to be bottom at Christmas. Meanwhile, Tottenham are up to 10th, entrenched in a congested mid-table where just three points separate eight teams.

Man Utd score twice in 2 minutes to beat Man City Manchester United struck twice in the closing minutes to stun Manchester City in a dramatic derby conclusion at Etihad Stadium.

Josko Gvardiol's first-

half header looked to be giving City victory in a largely dismal clash until United staged a remarkable turnaround to give new manager Ruben Amorim a landmark win early in his reign.

Amad Diallo was United's star performer, winning the 88th minute penalty that saw Bruno Fernandes equalise after the youngster was fouled by Matheus Nunes.

As City tried to regroup, Diallo then pounced in the closing seconds of normal time to score from a tight angle.

It was a rich reward for United boss Amorim after he ruthlessly axed Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from his match day squad, but then suffered an early blow when Mason Mount was struck down by his latest injury, limping off a f t e r o n l y 1 4 minutes.Opportunities were at a premium in a game largely made up of desperate mediocrity, United looking to have wasted their best opportunity to equalise 17 minutes from time when Fernandes raced clear on to Rasmus Hojlund's pass, only to lift his finish over the onrushing Ederson but wide.

The game was turned on its head in that frantic finale, City's fans furious and jeering their side while United's followers celebrated wildly in their corner of Etihad Stadium.

West Indies Cricket Saboteurs won't succeed THE recent no-show by representatives of two Regional Territorial Boards at an important Cricket West Indies (CWI) meeting was an attempt to sabotage the efforts of the regional organization's leader determined to implement governance changes widely welcomed by the cricket community.

And according to Kerwin John, newly re-elected president of the Tobago Cricket Association, and a Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board Director on the CWI, the desperate move by the two dissident stakeholders is doomed to failure.

John said the Barbados Cricket Association and the Guyana Cricket Board did a great disservice to regional cricket by their shocking

action which can be only described as a dereliction of duty, and a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the people who put them in office.

“It was surprising to many that the BCA and the GCB would go to such lengths to make the CWI, to which they belong, look bad in the eyes of the West Indian public, and indeed the international cricket c o m m u n i t y, ” s a i d t h e outspoken John.

The former stylish top club batsman reiterated the view expressed last week by his TTCB colleague Arjoon Ramlal, also a CWI director that the dissenters hijacked a democratic process by trying to overturn a consensus reached by the majority stakeholders, and to which

they were a part without voicing any objection.

The zoom meeting two Fridays ago was aborted when a quorum was not met for the crucial governance reform as the GCB and BCA failed to attend, having opted not to appoint two representatives as required

by CWI's Articles of Association.

In a media release, CWI said Guyana formally indicated their nonattendance, while Barbados did not provide a response.

It is the second time that both the GCB and BCA have opted not to attend a meeting of the members, the first instance occurring in 2021.

All other full member shareholders from the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Leeward Islands

Tobago Cricket Association President, Kerwin John Cricket Board (LICB), Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), and Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB) were present and prepared to proceed.

John says he concurs with CWI president Dr

Kishore Swallow that governance reform is critical to ensuring the regional organization's growth, sustainability, and ability to inspire pride across the region.He said when unity and collaboration is needed at this critical juncture, the absence of the Guyana and Barbados support at the highest forum undermines the collective effort required to move forward.

The meeting was convened to vote on implementing governance reforms proposed by the Wehby Report, crafted to modernize CWI's governance framework.

On the agenda were significant proposals, including adjustments to introduce term limits, the term durations for the

P r e s i d e n t a n d Vi c e President, and other proposals designed to strengthen CWI's governance structure.

John maintains that the effort to stall the progress of regional cricket and ensure t r a n s p a r e n c y , accountabilityand equity in West Indies cricket, is a pillar of Dr Shallow's plan to align the CWI with international standards.

“The CWI under Dr Shallow will remain committed to placing cricket first and not give in to selfish and ulterior inclinations judging from the support we have received for governance changes from all across the Caribbean, including the public in Barbados and Guyana,” John said.

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

PAGE 23

Queen's College captures 2024 Georgetown Inter-Schools Chess Title

I

t was an exuberant day for chess players from Queen's College when they emerged as the winners in both the Open and Female Team Categories and in the Individual Tournament of the just concluded InterSchools Chess Tournament involving fifteen schools within Georgetown.

The collaborative effort between the Guyana Chess Federation and the Ministry of Education under the Priority Areas Programme bore fruit with the staging of the competition on December 11th and 12th, 2024, at the Queen's College Auditorium.

Over 150 students registered for the competition from fifteen schools in the Georgetown Educational District, eight of which are under the Priority Areas Programme.

Members of the winning open team who represented Queen's College were Kyle Couchman, CM Sachin Pitamber, WCM Aditi Joshi, and Mahir Rajkumar. In contrast, the females consisted of Ciel Clement, Kataleya Sam, Rebha Lachman, and Parnita Kishun.

Placing second in the Open Category were Marian Academy students Macaiah

Enoe, Alek Ubaldo Singh, Joseph Prendergast, and Mayas Khan. The New Guyana School students Abel Fernandes, Tremusa Marshall, Tejas Kandavel, and Caleb Damon came in third.

For the females, the New Guyana School, consisting of A n a y a Wa l r u n d , A n y a D e G r o o t , S a n a Sreebalakumar, and Lusianna Farlot placed second. Marian Academy girls Angelina Yhap, Tharisha Montes De Oca, Kristin Xavier, and Chelsea Harrison took home the third prize trophy.

Queen's College student Alexander Zhang took home the Individual Tournament Champion trophy, while sibling Nicholas Zhang placed second. Omar Shariff placed third. All three winners are students of Queen's College.

Marian Academy student Brian Clarke took home the fourth-place prize, while Jacob McDonald from the School of the Nations won the fifth-place trophy. Vir Narine of Marian Academy won the sixth-place prize.

Four sportsmanship awards went to Shurlan Sparman of Bishop's High, Saura Ruplall from Marian

First Place Open Team - Queen's College Academy, Jeremiah Jacobs from School of the Nations and Saidy Bourne from Richard Ishmael Secondary.

Students from the Bishops' High, Christ Church S e c o n d a r y, D o l p h i n S e c o n d a r y, H o u s t o n S e c o n d a r y, K i n g s t o n S e c o n d a r y, M a r i a n Academy, New Guyana School, Richard Ishmael Secondary, School of the Nations, St. John's College, St. Joseph High, St. Roses High, St. Stanislaus High, Queen's College and Queenstown Secondary were all invited to participate in the Open Team, Female Team and individual categories.

Teams were four players for the Open and Female Sections from each

participating school. Five students were invited to play in the Individual Section, including the reserve player for each team.

The two-day tournament had a time control of 25 minutes with 10-second increments added to the clock after each move and was played in a seven-round Swiss format.

Teams with the most points in each category were presented with trophies and medals provided by the Ministry of Education Priority Areas Programme in a short presentation ceremony following the competition of all rounds.

Mr. Saeed Zameen, the program's coordinator, was on hand to present the

trophies to the winners.

The Guyana Chess Federation is pleased with the turnout and enthusiasm of the students for chess at the tournament. Mr. Anand Raghunauth, President of the GCF, stated that chess will be taught in other regions in 2025. “We have a plan and we have to be patient in the roll out for a sustainable outcome,” he said.

Raghunauth is very optimistic that chess training in Regions 2, 3, 6, and 10 will be possible next year as the GCF will diligently concentrate its efforts in 2025 on a broad-based initiative for Inter-school chess and growth of chess in the regions.

Such initiatives can see

many schools being added to the Chess in Schools roster as the federation promotes chess as a learning and teaching tool. The GCF congratulates all the winners of the Inter-School Chess Tournament and encourages the students to continue playing and learning chess so that they can continue to reap the benefits of playing chess and make themselves tournamentready.

The GCF would like to thank the sponsors who provided the snacks and b e v e r a g e s : To p c o a n d Sunshine Snacks. Thanks are also extended to KFC, who assisted with the meals, and to Queen's College for the use of the auditorium. (Guyana Chess Federation Release)

Wolves target Pereira as new boss after O'Neil exit (BBC Sport) - Wolves are in talks with Al-Shabab manager Vitor Pereira to replace head coach Gary O'Neil, who was sacked by the club on Sunday.

The Premier League strugglers are looking for a swift appointment and the money they would have to pay as compensation to secure former Porto and Olympiakos boss Pereira, around £800,000, is not believed to be an issue.

Wolves have been assessing their options and have sounded other possible replacements, including ex-West Ham and Manchester United boss David Moyes.

But club sources have told BBC Sport that Pereira is the frontrunner for the job.

Pereira has been in charge at Al Shabab since February, finishing eighth in the Saudi Pro League last season. They currently sit sixth after seven wins from 13 games.

The 56-year-old Portuguese won two Primeira Liga titles with Porto in 2012 and 2013 and the Greek Super League with Olympiakos in 2015.

The Wolves squad are not due to return for training until Tuesday and Pereira could be in charge by then, with his first game Sunday's trip to Leicester if negotiations go as planned.

O'Neil was dismissed on Sunday morning following Saturday's 2-1 defeat at home to Ipswich which left them second bottom, four points from safety.

His backroom staff of Tim J e n k i n s , S h a u n D e r r y, I a n Burchnall, Neil Cutler and Woody Dewar have also left.

Wolves chairman Jeff Shi said: "We're very grateful to Gary for all of his effort, dedication and hard work during his time at the club, and we wish him and his team the best of luck for the future."

The departure of the 41-yearold comes just three days after Shi said the club were "united" behind O'Neil following Monday's 2-1 defeat at West Ham. Saturday's defeat was their 11th in 16 Premier League games this season and they have only won twice in the top flight.

O'Neil replaced Julen

Lopetegui just four days before the start of the 2023-24 season, with Wolves going on to finish 14th.

Wolves began this season poorly, losing seven and drawing one of their first eight league games.A run of four games unbeaten, including successive wins over Southampton and Fulham, suggested a corner had been turned.

But they were beaten by Bournemouth and then lost heavily to Everton before defeats by the Hammers and Ipswich.

They have also struggled defensively, having conceded a league-high 40 goals and let in two or more goals in 13 of their 16 matches.

On Saturday, they went behind through a Matt Doherty own goal and although Matheus Cunha hit back, they were undone by Jack Taylor's 93rd-minute header.

In addition, the Molineux club has struggled with off-field issues, with Mario Lemina being stripped of the captaincy after an altercation with West Ham United's Jarrod Bowen on Monday.On Saturday,

Vitor Pereira is currently manager of Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia (Getty Images)

Rayan Ait-Nouri was sent off in the tunnel for a second yellow card after clashing with Wes Burns, while Cunha fought with Ipswich's security, barging into one before ripping his glasses off his face, as well as striker Liam Delap.

In the wake of the defeat, O'Neil

said he had "never had such a struggle" to coach a group of players.Prior to Wolves, he had a year-long spell at Bournemouth in the 2022-23 season, helping the south coast club avoid relegation before being sacked and replaced

by Andoni Iraola.

Monday December 16, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

West Indies Women Tour of India…

Rodrigues, Sadhu hand India big win on belter (Cricinfo) - An aggressive 81-run stand between Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana combined with some excellent catching gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against West Indies.Deandra Dottin led the fight in the 196 chase with a 28-ball 52 along with Qiana Joseph, but in the end West Indies fell 49 short with young medium-pacer Titas Sadhu taking three crucial wickets for India.

Mandhana's new opening partner With Shafali Verma dropped, Mandhana had a new opening partner in Uma Chetry, who was playing her fifth T20I. West Indies introduced spin as early as the second over after opting to bowl first, bringing in leftarm spinner Zaida James to bowl to Mandhana. Thirteen runs came off it, with Mandhana pulling her for a four first ball and Chetry punishing her with back-toback boundaries through the covers. Hayley Matthews brought herself on in the fourth over to bowl against the left-handed Mandhana but she was instead taken for two consecutive fours off the first two balls. Mandhana found her flow, making more than half of the runs in the openers' 50-run stand at the end of the powerplay.

Despite getting a life on

Jemimah Rodrigues made 73 off 35 balls (BCCI)

14, having been dropped in the slips, Chetry couldn't capitalise on it, struggling to score in the legside and slowing down against offspinner Karishma Ramharack. She was eventually bowled trying to flick Ramharack for a 26-ball 24.

Rodrigues on fire The wicket, however, ended up being a positive for India, with Rodrigues joining Mandhana in the middle.

Rodrigues stuck to her strengths, sweeping and reverse-sweeping the ball well from the get-go for her boundaries.

Mandhana, meanwhile, went on the back foot to put the spinners away and was scoring boundaries at regular intervals as well, as the duo

went hard at the balls that were pitched up. Together they took on Matthews for 19 runs in the 13th over. Their partnership just crossed 80 when Ramharack came back to dismiss Mandhana for 54.

Richa Ghosh, coming in at No. 4, made sure India did not slow down, hitting two fours and six off the first seven balls she faced. But she did not last long, with Dottin having her caught at deep midwicket. Rodrigues, however, continued to pile on the runs, bringing her fifty off just 28 balls. She hit boundaries all around the ground and also ran quickly between the wickets without tiring. She was run out in the last over for 73 off 35 balls but not before giving India a massive total.

Minnu Mani, super sub With Harmanpreet Kaur not taking the field for the chase, Mandhana took over captaincy duties and Minnu Mani filled in as a sub. Mani made sure to make the most of her chance by taking excellent catches both in the infield and outfield on a foggy evening in Navi Mumbai. In the second over, when Sadhu had Matthews top edge a pull, Mani ran back diagonally from midon, dived and caught the ball that came down from a height with stretched hands. She took another one near longon when Chinelle Henry m i s c u e d R a d h a Ya d a v straight up in the air.

The dangerous Dottin was dropped first by Rodrigues and then by Mandhana, she eventually ended up smashing it into the hands of Radha, who moved left from long-on to take the catch. While India's catching under the lights has previously been a subject of scrutiny, they did the job quite neatly on the day.

Dangerous Dottin, cool Sadhu Sadhu made her comeback after an injury layoff in the Australia ODIs earlier this month but that did not go well.

But on Sunday, with plenty of dew around, she kept mixing up her lines and lengths, managing to get

three crucial wickets.

While an excellent catch

by Mani accounted for Matthews, she caught Qiana Joseph by surprise by shortening her length right after being smacked for a six.

Joseph ended up hitting the ball towards mid-off for a simple catch and departed for a 33-ball 49.

But with Dottin going strong, West Indies still had a chance to turn the game around. Dottin was at her usual best - she got off the mark with an 80m hit over deep midwicket and singlehandedly kept the scoring

rate up despite little help from the other end. After being dropped the first time on 40, she went on to smash a six and a four to get to her half-century off just 26 balls.

But she could not capitalise on her second life after being dropped on 52, getting out the next ball to Sadhu.

That was pretty much the game for West Indies, who at that point needed 70 off 31 balls.

Match details: India 195 for 4 (Rodrigues 73, Mandhana 54) beat West Indies 146 for 7 (Dottin 52, Sadhu 3-37) by 49 runs

Deadra Dottin

WPL Auction: Dottin second most expensive player sold in 2025 (SportsMax) - West Indies star all-rounder Deandra Dottin became the first player to be sold and the second most expensive in the mini-auction for the 2025 Women's Premier League (WPL), as she was purchased by the Gujarat Giants for a staggering INR 1.7 crore (approximately US$200,000) in Bengaluru on Sunday.

The 33-year-old cricketer brings a wealth of experience to the shortest format of the game, having played 132 WT20Is with a tally of 2,817 runs, including two centuries and 12 half-centuries.

Dottin's acquisition marked the second-highest purchase of the auction, with the Giants also spending INR 1.9 crore (around US$224,000) on uncapped Indian player Simran Shaikh.

Meanwhile, India's Under-19 wicketkeeperbatter G Kamalini was snapped up by the Mumbai Indians for INR 1.6 crore (approximately US $189,000).

Dottin's sale as the first player under the hammer in the mini-auction is a significant milestone in her illustrious career.

Interestingly, this is not the first time Dottin has been associated with the Gujarat Giants, as she was initially signed by the franchise for INR 60 lakh (approximately US$71,000) before the inaugural WPL season.

However, in a controversial move, she was released just days before the tournament began in 2023.

The aggressive righthanded batter has long been a trailblazer in women's cricket. She was the first woman to score a century in T20 internationals, achieving the feat with a 38ball hundred against South Africa during the 2010 T20 World Cup—a record that remains the fastest century by a woman in the format.

Her return to the WPL under the Gujarat Giants banner highlights her enduring appeal and status as one of the game's most dynamic players.

Kaieteur News

Monday December 16, 2024

PAGE 25

Annai Sec' plummet to 6-2 defeat as Speyside topple Dolphin 3-1 ...as Petra's Fifth Annual Goodwill Int'l Series gets underway

It was a kaleidoscope of colours at the Queen's College ground on Sunday as the Petra Organisation kicked off its end-of-year tournament: Fifth Annual International Goodwill Football Series. The event features four regional secondary schools from territories such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname, as well as four local powerhouses.

A s c u s t o m a r y, a successful march-past preceded the four exciting clashes billed for the day.

The grand curtain-raiser saw Region Nine's Annai Secondary take on Jamaica's Clarendon College. What began as an evenly matched contest quickly shifted momentum as Clarendon's Nickoly Forbes netted the opening goal just nine

minutes into the match, giving his team an early 1-0 lead. Clarendon's defense dominated for the next twenty minutes, stifling Annai's attempts to reach the n e t . H o w e v e r, A d r i a n Cabral, Annai's #10, restored hope for his team with an excellent set-piece strike in the 40th minute, leveling the score at 1-1.

Clarendon, the 2023 champions, remained unfazed by the equalizer.

Just four minutes later, Dameon Simms delivered a stunning goal to reclaim the lead, making it 2-1 before halftime.

After the break, Forbes struck again in the 47th minute, extending Clarendon's advantage. The Jamaican side continued to dominate as Anthony Reid and Dusean Petcyrave added

Keacy Carty (Getty Images)

t o t h e t a l l y. F o r b e s completed his hat trick in the 60th minute, sealing an impressive performance.

Despite a spirited effort by Annai, including a late goal from Guy Moses, the Region Nine champions succumbed to a 6-2 defeat.

The second match of the day, between Speyside College from Tobago and 2024 RBL U18 League runners-up Dolphin Secondary, ended in a 3-1 victory for Speyside.

Speyside's strikers asserted dominance early, with Shyon George scoring in the second minute. Ezekiel Frank David equalized for Dolphin in the 12th minute, setting up an intense battle.

Dolphin's defense held strong for much of the first half, but Daviel Thomas broke through to give

Part of yesterday's action as Tobago's Speyside College sunk Dolphin Secondary 3-1 Speyside a 2-1 lead. George later secured a brace with a brilliant goal in the 69th minute, rounding off the win. Despite the loss, Dolphin's goalkeeper Brian Brower earned praise for his commendable performance under relentless pressure.

After the action at Queen's College ground, Jamaica's top performer Nickoly Forbes reflected on the match. “As always, playing here in Guyana is very competitive. That said,

brought up his thousandth run against Bangladesh at the 2019 World Cup in England.

The only West Indians to reach the mark faster are Nicholas Pooran (27 innings), Ramnaresh Sarwan (27 innings), Gordon Greenidge (23 innings) and S i r Vi v R i c h a r d s ( 2 1 innings).

The St. Maarten-born U19 World Cup winner now has exactly 1000 runs in his 31 ODIs at an average of 43.47 with five fifties and one hundred, his matchwinning 128* against England in Barbados last month.

He has also been selected to the West Indies T20I squad for the first time for the upcoming Bangladesh series and will be looking to feature when it gets underway on Sunday at Arnos Vale.

(SportsMax)

Region Seven's D.C. Caesar Fox Secondary. Coverage of these matches will feature in a future publication.

The tournament is sponsored by the KFC Franchise, with additional support from Lucozade, Sterling Products, Royal International Hotel, Skytec Enterprise, Tiger Rentals, and MVP Sports. The event is approved by the Ministry of Education and endorsed by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports

PMTC Showdown of Champions...

Carty becomes joint-fifth fastest West Indian to 1000 ODI runs Tuesday's third and final One-Day International between the West Indies and Bangladesh was a historic one for a few reasons.

The first was that the hosts secured a 3-0 series win and their first ODI series win over Bangladesh since 2014.

The second was that Amir Jangoo became the second West Indian to score a hundred on ODI debut with his 104* and the third, and focus of this article, is that Keacy Carty became the joint fifth-fastest West Indian to reach 1000 runs in ODIs. The 27-year-old reached the milestone during his score of 95 off 88 balls including 10 fours and two sixes at Warner Park in St. Kitts.

Carty's first 1000 runs in the format have come in just 28 innings, the same amount as Shimron Hetmyer who

my team came ready, and the younger players stepped up to the task, enabling us to emerge victorious today,” he remarked.

The day's action continued at the Ministry of Education ground with two more matches: 2024 League champions Chase's Academic Foundation faced Suriname's Henry Hassankhan Community College, while Trinidad's Intercol champions St. Benedict's College took on

Javid Ali of Slingerz Racing Stable collects the Metro Mile trophy with race winner Olympic Kremlin in frame.

Olympic Kremlin steals the show Olympic Kremlin stole the show by a comfortable margin in Sundays Metro sponsored Mile, the feature event of the Port Mourant Turf Club's Showdown of Champions.Coming from 10 lengths back, the Slingerz Racing Stable Icon showed its full potency in the hands of Jockey A. Gulart by hunting 2023 Horse of the year Spankhurst (C. Paria) and Jagdeo Racing Stables Loyal Company (D. Khelqwan) in daunting fashion to win.Spankhurst left the blocks like a rocket, pulling out just over 11 lengths to the rest of the field a quarter way through the race.And as Loyal company caught Spankhurst, the duo had a short duel in the J's supermarket and Jumbo Jet sponsored event But true to form, the Slingerz horse sliced through the field, taking down horse after horse in chase of the third win on the trot.Spankhurst finished second ahead of Jagdeo Racing Stables

duo of Loyal Company and Frontline Warrior (N.Patrick).

Meanwhile in the co-feature event, the Guyana Star Sprint sponsored by SHI OIL, Slingerz Racing Stables Ritorna Vincentori had to dig deep to overturn the challenge of Jagdeo Racing Stables Oy Vey, winning by half a length.Rounding the final bend neck in neck, the duo dueled down the stretch as the raucous crowd spurred them on; jockey A. Gulart finding a little bit more than his rival D. Khelawan aboard the close second.The Simply Royal Stables pair of Stormy Victory (V. Ramnarain) and Morning Colors (R. Appadu) finished third and fourth.In the opening race, the Sandeep Poultry J/K/L Maidens sponsored by Big G Lumber Yard, KP Jagdeo General Contractors and AJM Enterprise, Security Rock (Y.Drepaul) finished just ahead of Enemy Maker (K.Blake), Three D

Movie (K. Pierreia) and Perfect Gold (V. Ramnarain).Race two, the Archway Snackette K&L class sponsored by Laka Ramrich Rice Farmer, Rohan Auto Spares, ARMCO Construction and K. Haniff Construction, saw a blinding effort from Bin Landen and Jockey Blake to come from fourth to win. Down the home stretch, Blake opened up Bin Laden who blazed past Princess Sasha (Z.Mahsood), Sarkar (Appadu) and late entry Kiss (Kishan).The Permaul Trading and Distribution 2 year old Juvenile Stakes saw another come from behind win, this time Irish Eyes (K. Razzak) upstaging the field down the final stretch.Second, third and fourth, sponsored by Orvin Mangru Construction, Satesh Liquor Restaurant and Tanna Rice Farmer of Black Bush was Ruff Time (R. Appadu), Miss Simron (V. Ramnarine) (Continued on page 21)

Annai Sec' plummet to 6-2 defeat as Speyside topple Dolphin 3-1 ...as Petra's Fifth Annual Goodwill Int'l Series gets underway

s t r Spo

Defending champions Clarendon College (Jamaica) staged dominant 6-2 win over Annai Secondary in tournament opener

West Indies Women Tour of India…

Queen's College captures Rodrigues, Sadhu 2024 Georgetown hand India big Inter-Schools Chess Title win on belter Dottin led the fight for West Indies with a rapid fifty, but her team still fell 49 runs short (BCCI)

First Place Female Team - Queen's College.

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