Kaieteur News

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Friday Edition Cost for CGX NEWS exploration well climbs to US$125M

AIETEUR

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

December 17, 2021 - Vol. 14 No.51

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 72,700

…says drilling in Corentyne Block taking longer than expected

Govt. to dominate oil fund committees ...President, Minister to make all appointments ...no room for media, transparency groups

Article 13 joins call for Yellowtail EIA to be quashed

New PNCR leader to be announced by Sunday PPP/C pays US$10M for helicopter, before tender board approved deal

The protest continues for change to ExxonMobil’s contract.

Minister given power to waive oil companies' compliance with targets in Local Content Bill Exxon is now putting down shorebase in Guyana. We have lost the corn now we are losing the husk from the oil.

We borrowed US$160M to upgrade Mandela Ave/Sheriff St., East Coast & West Coast Highways, now we are borrowing US$190M to upgrade a road in the bush. What a lovely country this is! @11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

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Friday December 17, 2021

Friday December 17, 2021

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Friday December 17, 2021

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

TIGI and transfers The local Transparency Institute (TIGI) took the time to explain its position on oil, in that ‘the theft of resources of astronomical value can occur in as simple a way as the deliberate failure to enforce a law where such a law exists, or where it is deliberately misinterpreted in favour of private financial interests.’ We are gratified that others are joining in the fight for openness, adding their voices pressing for cleanness, and making clear their position(s) about avenues for corruption where our oil wealth is concerned.

TIGI’s specific words recognise the sinister at work, and places matters before Guyanese in a way that they can appreciate: “Since the benefit of such an action is conferred upon the private interests as a benefit in kind, it is easy in its conceptualisation, as it is difficult to trace.” Those words are loaded with meaning, of “benefits…conferred” and “benefits in kind” in one circular arrangement after another that extravagantly reward a small handful of people in the political and private sector realms.

Guyanese have seen and are left openmouthed at what can only be concluded to be the deliberate misinterpretations and misplaced positions of a pivotal State agency, which favour private interests. There have been assessments not done, with the position that they are not needed. We have reported slothfulness in enforcement, in readiness to do follow-up implementation of laws, and compliance with laws falling in other natural resources sectors.

Those who gave huge sums of money as political gifts get huge awards in political favours that complete the circle of giving and taking, involving a lucky few, who get many a free pass. Except that luck has little to do with what is going on in quiet, determined fashions. What is within the hands of powerful political State actors to give or to withhold is part of the game played with this oil that belongs to all Guyanese. When the playing is not level, when most things of value (extremely high value) are given up and gobbled up by the well-positioned biggest dogs in the local arena, then this is what local content boils down to, at the extremes, which are too often the norm in Guyana nowadays.

Any honest and deeply probing examination of what has taken place with business related to our oil discoveries and prospects confirm that the game is fixed in favour of those favoured by political leaders in this government, for the simple reason that those favoured were there for them with support in many ways. This by no means exempts the previous Coalition Government from any similarly skewed involvements in the unfair and corrupt oil game.

It is why there are so many secrets with how the oil benefits are parceled and doled out, and to the point where secrecy is the standing culture. We have a Head-of-State who somehow finds the face to boast that he and his government’s dealings with this oil have been a sterling example of what and how transparency is supposed to be.

The highest officeholder in Guyana is so shameless that it doesn’t matter to him that he is the only person anywhere in the region, who believes that hogwash, and so reckless as to mouth such horse droppings. As TIGI insisted, citizens must stop the silence; government must be about disclosure.

Further, secrecy should only prevail, when it could be justified by government claims that it must be so. In other words, citizens must not accept without the most strenuous objections whatever the government of the day keeps secret.

Interestingly, TIGI noted that giving charity is not an end, but a beginning. There is an obligation to speak out against the few skimming off the cream. Oftentimes, minute fractions of that cream are recycled as charity, and Guyanese feel good about themselves, even find occasion to celebrate the giving when, in fact, those small fractions are part of the massive corruptions prevalent in Guyana. The people’s booty being given back to them.Guyanese need to be aware of something: corruption intensifies poverty, and given its extreme state here, extreme poverty is promised for the greatest majority. Pay attention, take heed, or pay bitter prices.

Are Alexander’s raves and rants related to something other than academic qualifications?

DEAR EDITOR, Reference is made to critical remarks made about my commentary on Vishnu Persaud (Dec. 12) in the epistle (Dec. 15) of Vincent Alexander attacking the Chair of GECOM for her vote hiring Persaud as CEO of the body. I played no role in the selection process. I did not support or tout for any applicant.

I merely cheered the appointment pointing out that he is amply qualified for the position given his experience and academic qualifications. GECOM determined that he was more qualified and better suited for the job and I praised his appointment given that GECOM has been without a CEO for several months with its work stymied during that period. Filling the vacancy was critically needed and it does not matter to me who has been hired for the position. The work (registration of new voters, giving out IDs, updating of electoral list, preparing for local elections, etc.) of GECOM needs to go on.

Attacking the Chair is not the way to prove that Jamaican Leslie Howard is more qualified than G u y a n e s e M r. Vi s h n u Persaud. Respecting and accepting the democratic process (vote of the Chair and 4 is greater than 3) is of paramount importance more than any other factor as long as the process has not been compromised.

It is strange that Mr. Alexander now speaks of GECOM’s decisions on appointments. He did not query the appointment of Keith Lowenfield by the then

Chair or the Mingo bogus results of the country’s 2020 polls. When Lowenfield was C E O , t h e P N C Commissioners did not question or challenge the functioning of GECOM and the decisions of then Chair James Patterson, who was i l l e g a l l y a n d unconstitutionally appointed to that position. And Mr. Alexander knew of those aberration.

G E C O M i s a n independent constitutional agency. It made a decision (to hire Vishnu Persaud) after following the correct protocols. The fact that Mr. Alexander’s candidate was not appointed is no excuse to rant and rave.

There is only one position for CEO. And GECOM appointed Vishnu to that position. The Chair is a very nice and accomplished woman and she has taken much time to deliberate on election related matters to ensure that decisions are in accordance with the law and rules of reason. No one questions Mr. Alexander’s vote for his Jamaican candidate. Why should he arrogate and also demean the right of the GECOM’s Chair?

Mr. Alexander queried P e r s a u d ’s a c a d e m i c qualification. He contends that Persaud is less (not) qualified and even lacks the criteria (requisite academics and experience, etc.) for the position. I should note that on the issue of qualification and experience, the high court awarded some $4.5M in damages to Persaud against Alexander and others (in Chronicle newspaper) who questioned and

denigrate his qualifications when he sought the DCEO position. The case spoke to Persaud’s qualification. The court’s ruling spoke volumes – clearly rejecting Alexander‘s position on qualifications.

The Ethnic Relations Commission addressed the discriminatory way by which Mr. Alexander and his colleagues bypassed Persaud for one of their party’s supporters. The then Chairman of GECOM, Judge James Patterson, made a decision to hire Myers even before a report was submitted on Persaud’s qualification.

The Ethnic Relations Commission also condemned the nonappointment of Persaud saying it was racially biased.

Persaud scored the highest on the selection criteria for DCEO. The ERC concluded that Perasud suffered an injustice. Mr. Alexander voted against him in favour of a less qualified person in a 4-3 decision. Chair James Patterson, who was illegally appointed, cast the tie break (and 3-3 vote) in favour of Myers.

Alexander would have known that Patterson should not have been chosen for Chair because he was not nominated by the Opposition Leader as required by the constitution; instead he did not speak out against that appointment.

Patterson, who never interviewed Persaud for the position, was reported in the media as saying that Persaud had “shifty eyes” when asked why he did not select him.

Alexander argues that his (and the PNC favoured)

candidate Leslie Howard has higher qualifications than Persaud with the former having two MAs. The evaluation criteria for the position did not say that a candidate having higher academic qualifications would be preferred or would receive ‘extra points’ in the assessment (evaluation) of the candidates.

I have multiple PhDs and MAs but limited experience for the position. Does that mean that had I applied, I would have preference (automatically selected) over those without equivalent academic certificates?

The selection criteria did not make mention of grades; it is not mentioned that a person with higher grades (higher degree) would be more qualified and would have preference over someone with a degree of lower grade. And grades are immaterial as long as the candidates have equivalent or requisite qualification.

Thus, whether one has a higher or lower degree is not necessarily a determining factor. I should also note that as an academic, it is not unusual for course work to be evaluated and equated into degrees. In today’s academic setting, experience is being evaluated and equated to degrees (BA).

Experience is also used to grant degrees or entry into Master’s programmes like Executive Masters (MBAs).

Alexander also made reference to Persaud’s appointment at GECOM in 2001 by the then Chair.

Neither the present Chair nor the Commission can go back (Continued on page 6)

Friday December 17, 2021

TRADITIONAL MARUDI LAND OWNERS ASKING TO BE INCLUDED IN DECISIONS THAT IMPACT THEIR LIVES DEAR EDITOR, The spinning surrounding the Marudi issue by the authorities will continue, with hope that people will get fed up and forget.

In the 10th December, 2021 edition of the Stabroek News, the Minister defended the government’s decision to “greenlight the start of smallscale mining at Marudi Mountain, claiming that ‘we in the government needed to strike a balance…” This is far from the truth — if indeed government has to strike a balance, then we, as Indigenous peoples, would have been part of the process leading to the signing of any agreement.

That clearly did not happen in the case of the Marudi agreement. There cannot be a “balance” struck without respect for our rights in the decision-making process.

This imbalance is heavily in favour of those so-called small-scale miners.

I find it difficult to accept that the Minister truly believes that the process that led to the signing of the agreement had our communities’ full and informed input. It was instead a total disregard for the right of free, prior, and informed consent and our rights as traditional owners of the area. These rights and principles are important, if we as Indigenous peoples are to take part in national development in and around our lands.

Anything less than full respect for our rights will see the continued decimation of our lands, and its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

In its Early Warning/Urgent Action Communication to Guyana, in December of 2018, the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination communicated that, “The Committee is concerned about the allegations that the Wapichan people have been largely left out of any decision-making process related to the mining activities at Marudi Mountain, a sacred

mountain to the Wapichan Indigenous tribe…” The Committee requested the State party to provide information on the steps taken to: ‘Consider the suspension of the Mining Project on Marudi Mountain until free, prior, and informed consent is granted by the Wapichan Indigenous People following the full and adequate discharge of the duty to consult’. It would be interesting what next steps the Committee will be considering.

Our famous, “Guyanese Critic” visited some villages to ask some people what they think of the issue at hand. It was surprising that he was being driven around by the REO. This is the same REO who went to Marudi to hold meetings about mining, claiming that “buggie” is helping miners at Marudi, and he does not have to be there ‘cause he can be given millions of dollars’ worth in contracts in the Region. Since when does the REO promote mining? I was under the impression that that responsibility falls under GGMC. I do hope that Mr. Critic gets genuine and balanced opinions. If Mr. Critic were to walk around any part of our country, he might hear many criticisms of the government’s policies, but we know it is not cherry-picked, random people on the street, but rather, the elected government that makes those policy decisions. So why is there a different standard for the government and for our Indigenous representative institutions? All that the communities of the South Rupununi are asking is that our representative institutions of the Indigenous villages in the South Rupununi be included in any decisionmaking on any development activities, especially when we are the ones who will have to live with all the negative impacts of extractives.

Mr. Critic, I’d like you to read the letter of 30th October of 1967 by our Elder

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Toshaos and read the Amerindian Lands Commission report of 1969 before you go saying that the land is government lands and not Indigenous People’s land.

Please understand the context of our land issue and its history so that you can share accurate information.

The Minister is claiming that the issue is being politicised by a few. Asking to be included in decisions that will affect us cannot be considered politics. This is a basic and fundamental human right and that is what we are demanding in this situation.

Having the REO, and other close associates, visit communities at very short notice to convince them to accept the agreement is politicising the issue. Having a one-liner consent to the agreement for individuals to sign onto is politicising the issue. Having the REO transport Mr. Critic around the villages and into Marudi to “hear from the people” is politicising the issue. It is a classic attempt to distract us from the real issue of respect for our human rights.

If that is not politicising, what is?

Editor, Saturday coming, the 18th December 2021, will make three weeks since the Minister promised that the agreement will be sent to us.

Up to the time of writing, we have not been sent anything.

Such is the respect the government has for the Indigenous Peoples of this country. In conclusion, I wish to reiterate that it’s not about benefits and livelihoods, or whether we want mining, it is about the agreement that was made without our inclusion or input, when the very Ministers are talking about “Free, Prior and Informed Consent”.

As traditional owners of these lands, we are simply asking that we be included in decisions that will impact negatively us in time to come.

Respectfully, Chief Kokoi Wapichan elder

Sase Singh has single-handedly ended more than two decades of corrupt practices at GuySuCo DEAR EDITOR, As children, we were taught at home and at school that honesty is the best policy, but it seems as though this has not been the case with this writer whose sole goal is to see the destruction and total collapse of GuySuCo. He is indecent and dishonest in his propaganda and criticism against the CEO. Interestingly, most of the names he mentioned were the same people, including himself, who bankrupted GuySuCo because they were highly corrupt. And for him to say that these people cannot be wrong also proved that that he is incredibly deceitful. As we said in our previous letter, he is angry and bitter because the CEO has ended their “gravy train” that benefitted him and his chums.

And for him to say that, there were frequent audits at GuySuCo is blatantly false. If this writer thinks that by mentioning the names of people like himself would impress anyone, them he better think again. Most of the names he mentioned are what we call “have been” like himself who reaped the bonanza from GuySuCo, and then watched as it became bankrupt. And even though GuySuCo went

under, they continued their nefarious practices that have plunged the corporation into deeper debt. They were not concerned about the survival of the corporation as long as their pockets were filled. Not only did they suck the blood out of the corporation, but they also did the same with the government subsidies.

We would like to ask this writer why he is against the CEO for having control of GuySuCo. After all, Mr. Sasenarine Singh is the CEO whose job is to have control and steer the corporation to success. Does the writer want him and his aficionados to have control so that they can continue to ruin the corporation and drive it further into the ground? He is fuming and is choleric because he and his cronies can no longer suck GuySuCo dry as they did over the years. The question we would like to ask him is, “Why is he writing under a fake name?” We are certain that he is an employee of GuySuCo who is infuriated, incensed and envious. He resented the CEO because apparently, he wanted to be the CEO but he was rejected because he did not possess the talent and requisite skills. We repeat, his statement against

the CEO is reckless, fraudulent, insipid, wishy-washy, bogus and without merit.

The writer made the bold statement that the CEO utilised the manpower and financial resources of GuySuCo for his birthday celebrations, but in the end, he stated that if these allegations are accurate, then why should the Corporation bear the personal costs? We therefore ask him to please tell the public which is it. Did the CEO do what he claims he did or is he guessing or is it his intent to make false and phony claims against the CEO who ended his corrupt practices?

No more gravy train. We are asking him to stop and please identify himself to the public.

For the writer to tell us that GuySuCo Board has the names of the persons who were intimidated and forced to resign by the CEO, and then ask us to make a formal request for the submission of these names is silly, foolish and asinine, to say the least.

We would like to caution the writer not to tell us what to do.

For one reason, we do not work at GuySuCo; therefore, we have no clue what he is talking about. For another, we (Continued on page 6)

Regulations govern water/ wastes produced in Offshore Oil and Gas operations DEAR EDITOR, It should be noted that our local oversight bodies such as the EPA and Ministry of Agriculture may not be aware of the extent of the waste produced by the offshore oil and gas operations.

There are quite a few regulations governing waste produced and the way it should be disposed. These can be

found in the API RP 45 (American Petroleum Institute) and other related literature such as NACE (National Association of Corrosion Engineers - American/International) - Oilfield Water Technology.

If these folks are aware of the information contained in these manuals, it would be good to implement them. The

treatment of the wastes should be paramount but this is not happening in Guyana.

Respectfully, Suresh R. Seetaram

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The Speaker is out of order DEAR EDITOR, Unfortunately, I must break my Christmas peace, since the barbaric occurred recently.

It was from the august National Assembly, and from no less a figure than the Hon. Speaker himself.

“Speaker bars debate on economic analysis of Gas-toshore project…tells Patterson not obligated to give reasons” (KN December 15).

As context, Opposition Member of Parliament, David Patterson, who has the role of Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, had submitted a motion back in October, with the intention of having a debate on the possible environmental impacts of the Gas-to-Shore project.

As shared by MP Patterson, the Speaker altered his motion, pursuant to Standing Order 27 (2)(b). Specifically, four clauses were removed from the Shadow Minister’s motion.

On occasion, there may be solid grounds for such alterations and removals, in the good judgment and careful discretion of the Speaker of the National Assembly.

In this instance, however, I think he erred enormously.

For there is no issue currently, none that is as costly and controversial, as the billion-dollar Wales Gas-toShore project.

Hence, it is not only timely, relevant, and of substance, but also one to which is of deep interest to most Guyanese.

The Speaker of the House, and I give him credit for some fairness and integrity, showed a remarkable lack

of judgment, and a profound denseness regarding what has near universal meaning to Guyanese.

For they could be left with an obese elephant worth a trillion Guyana dollars and wondering about a proper zoo for it.

But, if that were all, the Hon. Speaker might have been spared the rod, but there is more, and it is ugly.

Editor, it is of how he went about communicating such to Mr. Patterson.

To quote from the letter of the Clerk of the Assembly writing on behalf to the Speaker, to Mr. Patterson, “he…may direct: -that the member concerned be informed that the notice of motion is out of order.”

No issues so far, but what followed was not only outrageous, but also insulting.

It was that “the Hon. Speaker is not obligated…to give reasons for altering questions or motions.”

I don’t think I am hearing or reading right; certainly, I can’t be understanding what was written by the Clerk to the MP tabling the motion.

The Standing Order may give the Speaker the authority to amend and alter, but I would be surprised if it empowers the Hon. Speaker to conduct himself in a manner that is undemocratic and uncivilised; it was nothing short of degrading and, quite frankly, has too much of “Atilla, The Hun” about it, so profane it was.

The Speaker is obligated to say why he did what he did; and if the Standing Order does afford him that leeway (not give reasons), then he

ought to have the wisdom that the circumstances compelled him to do so.

“Not obligated” doesn’t sound like part of democracy’s processes to me, of open, free, fair, and spirited debate.

And I remind the Speaker that the forum over which he presides is a place of the cut and thrust and debate, through motions allowed intact, as reinforced by the underpinnings of wide social interest, concern, and alarm.

To gut the motion, as he did, makes it innocuous, almost meaningless.

Further still, I remind the Speaker that MP Patterson is not some Lone Ranger, but someone acting on behalf of approximately 200,000 Guyanese voters. What makes the Speaker’s action even more appalling was the memory over what went on in that same pristine National Assembly when he was tongue-tied, with sealed lips, frozen limbs, and all but impotent, when the lunatics took over the asylum in March, which was the sorry state to which the National Assembly was reduced.

It was not the Speaker’s shiniest hour then, as it is not today.

I detect that “not obligated” to act sagaciously has become a crowning characteristic of his speakership.

Given the significance of the secretive Gas-to-Shore project, what the Hon. Speaker did to MP Patterson’s motion was to add secrecy to secrecy and darkness to darkness. I wish he was more of a man with his own mind.

Because if the Speaker being “not obligated” becomes the norm, then what we

Friday December 17, 2021

Election of PNC/R Leader DEAR EDITOR, Many members and supporters of the PNC/R have engaged me in recent times for my opinion as to how I think the upcoming party election is likely to unfold. I have no vote in these elections, but as an observer, I had looked at the candidates and expressed the view that Dr. Richard Van WestCharles has manifested the superior qualifications, accomplishments and unconditional dedication and loyalty to party leaders, recent and

long past.

My opinion has not changed, but my post-elections expectations are cautionary. The elections petition has not been settled and David Granger remains the APNU+AFC’s Presidential Candidate and Leader of its List even if he is not Party Leader.

Joseph Harmon is the Leader of the Opposition and General Secretary of APNU. I do not believe that the election of a new Leader of the PNC/R, by itself, can change

any of that at this time. In order for the PNC/R to remain strong and relevant, the Leader it selects now must demonstrate his unwavering commitment and support for the APNU+AFC Presidential Candidate and to strengthening the Partnership and Alliance.I continue to be convinced that the candidate best suited, most qualified and trusted to accomplish this is Dr. Richard Van WestCharles.

Sincerely, Oscar Dolphin

Are Alexander’s raves and rants related...

From page 4 to what happened in 2001.

That matter was already decided by the Commission at that time. That is history now.

The Commission is presented with the credentials of the applicants now and an evaluation must be made on the basis of these updated credentials.

I do not think Howard has as much experience as Persaud in managing elections. Persaud has worked in GECOM as part of its operations, as DCEO and other positions. Therefore, he meets the criteria.

On the role of the Chair, Ret’d Justice Claudette Singh showed throughout the five month-election saga, that she respects democracy and the court. She did not make hasty decisions. She worked within

the legal framework. When matters were pending before the court, she waited for them to run their course before making a decision. She was methodical, careful and exercised restraint on decisionmaking as any good GECOM Chair should do. There were attempts to terrorise her in the first week of the post-election period. She resisted them and stood up in defense of democracy.

Alexander argues for an outsourcing of the selection of the CEO. Election bodies are independent and must execute its own work. A commission does not outsource evaluation of candidates.

GECOM is an election management body. It cannot depend on an external agency to do its work. In evaluating applicants, it must look for

attributes in totality. GECOM has laid down its process for evaluation and selection of an appointee. It is competent to hold interviews of applicants, take all circumstances and factors into view to make a decision. As I see it, this is what the Commission did. It is inappropriate to attack the Chair. She is entitled to cast a vote. She has that power. It is the decision of the Commission. One can criticise the Commission but not the Chair.

Vishnu Persaud stated categorically that he would be neutral. Vincent Alexander’s challenge should therefore be to hold him to that standard rather than ridiculing him and maligning the integrity of the Chair.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Sase Singh has single-handedly...

From page 5 strongly believe that he is untrustworthy and cannot be believed because he continues to make fictitious and devious statements as a depraved or delusional person would. -entality.

Our advice to him is to stop deluding himself and seek professional help because

based on our observation, he did not write the letter.

It was written by someone else and handed to him.

And finally, his malicious assertion that the CEO has hijacked the corporation is downright evil and nasty.

We believe that the CEO is doing a grea- of corrupt practices and has pre-

vented the writer and his associates from mugging GuySuCo. In layman terms, the CEO has ended the lawlessness that has crumbled and made the corporation insolvent and dependent on government subsidies to survive.

Dr. Asquith Rose, Dr. Vicki Rajkumar

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When anti-corruption mechanisms are taken away, the table is set for corruption.

Costly leadership corruption. Dirty crony corruption. Ugly oil corruption that robs Guyana and enrich them.

How is it that we are still hearing that we have a Government that is all for the poor, small, and left behind.

What a group of scoundrels! This is transparency and accountability, the 'low-life' Guyanese way.

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Friday December 17, 2021

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Minister given power to waive oil companies' compliance with targets in Local Content Bill

By Kiana Wilburg

I

n less than two years of being in office, the PPP/C Government, specifically its Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, was able to table the Local Content Bill 2021 yesterday in the National Assembly which features several provisions that seek to ensure Guyanese have an equal participatory chance as well as an advantage in the oil and gas sector.

The Bill proposes the creation of a Secretariat that would be responsible for a Local Content Register which will have approved companies and citizens to be used by oil companies. It also provides 40 categories of work as opposed to the previous 153 in the draft schedule of targets.

Those 40 categories in the Bill contain various levels of local content to be achieved by oil companies.

These areas that have been put aside for Guyanese participation include medical, legal, dredging, environmental, sanitation, l a y d o w n y a r d , c a rg o

management, pest control, transportation, catering and borehole testing services.

Of significance is the fact that while companies are expected to meet the foregoing requirements least they be slapped with a $50M dollar penalty, the Bill reposes in the Minister, the power to waive an oil company's need for compliance with the minimum local content targets to be achieved.

The Bill specifically states, “The Minister may waive the requirement set out in subsection (1) where – t h e M i n i s t e r, a f t e r consultation with the Secretariat, deems any petroleum operation to be of national interest; a C o n t r a c t o r, S u b contractor or Licensee is unable to comply with the minimum local content level in the performance of any petroleum operation due to the lack of current Guyanese capacity; or compliance with a Master Service Agreement executed by a Contractor, Sub-Contractor or Licensee which is still in

force immediately before the coming into operation of this Act prevents the C o n t r a c t o r, S u b Contractor or Licensee from complying with the minimum local content levels set out in the First Schedule.”

I m p o r t a n t l y, t h i s provision is not in keeping with any of the policies previously done for Guyana.

It is also not part of the recommendations made by the Local Content Committee that was constituted by President, Irfaan Ali. Be that as it may, the explanatory memorandum for the Bill states that it represents the principal vehicle through which Guyana seeks to negotiate a tradeoff between investors engaged in the petroleum sector and Guyanese nationals and Guyanese companies involved the petroleum sector.

The Bill endeavours to do so by striving for economic diversification through prioritizing Guyanese nationals and Guyanese companies in the

procurement of goods and services for the enhancement of the petroleum sector value chain.

The Bill says this prioritization will guarantee that there is an increased retention of the economic benefits in Guyana while simultaneously allowing for there to be an upsurge in the number, competencies, and capabilities of Guyanese nationals and Guyanese companies participating in the petroleum sector.

To d e l i v e r o n i t s

legislative target, the Bill puts in place regulatory mechanisms to implement, investigate, supervise, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate participation in local content in Guyana.

Altogether, the Bill provides for the p r o m o t i o n o f competitiveness, and the encouragement of the creation of related industries that will sustain the social and economic development of Guyana as well as other related matters.

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat

Chart shows the proposed areas for Guyanese participation and the targets for companies by the end of 2022.

Friday December 17, 2021

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Kaieteur News

Not because someone is successful means they are worth patterning your life after My grandson lives in Canada and lives what he calls a “Bohemian life”. You or I might charitably call him a starving artist. He has failed three times to get into art school and draws caricatures at Niagara Falls to make ends meet. This is actually decent money, but he is in with a bad set and they waste all their money drinking at bars. At least he does not smoke dope.

I asked him why he has no aspirations in life and he told me, on the contrary, he has great aspirations, though he was far too drunk at the time to define them.

I told him he needed a role model whose example he could follow to turn his life around. Someone whose circumstances paralleled his but who rose above them and achieved great things. Well, last month, I ran into him doing open mic comedy at the same bar. He told me that he had taken my advice, and could I put in a good word for him with a political party. Now I don’t know anything about politics in Canada, but I told him that politics in Guyana is all about race, which didn’t put him off as much as I thought it would.

I asked what he was doing entertaining in bars if he wanted to be a politician.

“Grandad, I took your advice and found a role model. He was a great politician, who did a lot of great things for his people. But he started out like me, exact same back-

ground, and made his name talking in drinking houses.

That was how people got to know him and he got to know people.”

I have to say that this made some amount of sense.

In politics and business, at least in Guyana, drinking is a big part of the culture. As he said, you can easily get to know the electorate, your fellow politicians, as well as financial backers and other powerful individuals over a glass of rum. I imagine that this disadvantages individuals who do not drink or are prohibited from drinking.

Somewhat mollified, I asked him his next step.

“The next thing is to get out of the bars and onto the streets. Marches and demonstrations will help grow a following and show people we are serious about our cause.”

Again, a solid strategy, one I see employed to some effect on the streets of Guyana.

“This your own idea, or more emulation?” He replied that he was repeating but not copying entirely - “A role model is important, but you should also make sure you do not make the same mistakes they did. I want to build up a strong following, and some amount of bombast will be necessary, but I will take care not to entirely alienate the other side. Society is half and half, and it can’t function without the other half. So we have to keep them around until we’ve made the changes we

need.”

At this point I was getting worried. I thought the rum might have rushed to his head, but I never heard no rumsucker talking like this. That sort of talk might fly in Guyanese politics but in Canada they got a thing called “political correctness”, so I told him, “You can’t be saying things like, “other side” and “keep them around until!”

“I won’t mince words, grand-dad. This is my struggle. People don’t want a goody-goody leader full of platitudes; and if I succeed no one will ask me for an apology; and if I lose, no one will expect one. This is what I have learned.”

“Boy who it is feeding you this nonsense? Who it is you patterning yourself after?” I shouted at him.

He walked over to his table, picked up a book and handed it to me. “This will explain.”

I looked down and was flabbergasted. I realised my mistake.

I thought that by urging him to find a role model he would be able to emulate their best qualities, get his act together and turn around his life. What I forgot is that the choice of role models is just as important. Just because someone is successful does not mean they are worth patterning your life after. Just as important as success, your role model must be a good and

Dem boys seh ...

PPP/C is nat de scapegoat fuh de Kangress A man claiming how de PPP/C imploding.

It mek dem boy remember de part of de Holy Book wah seh yuh must cast de beam out ah yuh own eye before yuh can see more clearly to cast out de mote out ah yuh brother’s eye.

De only party wah imploding is de party wah holding it Kangress dis weekend.

Dem had rebellion inside de party after dem lose power.

And de rebellion tun into mutiny because dem vex

with de ole leader.

De rebels vex because dem lose de election.

Dem vex because he accept de GEGONE declaration. Dem did prefer he accept de Lolo numbers.

Some ah dem also vex dem nah get pick in de squad.

But dem fuhget was de same man wah did bring dem out ah de political wilderness and mek nuff ah dem able fuh get guvament wuk.

De man get mo votes in de elections dan ever before.

Yet dem turn against de man.

Now some ah dem need

de gallery fuh get attention and fuh get support fuh de party elections. Suh some ah dem engaging in theatrics and drama show.

But in de end, cussing de PPP/C is not the passport to victory.

Yuh gat to convince dem delegates dat de party wah return to de past, is suitable fuh de future.

In de end, as dem boys seh, who win or who lose nah matter.

De party gan get de leaders it deserve.

Talk half. Leff half.

decent person. I looked down at the book in my hands. It was Mein Kampf, by Adolf Hitler. (The views expressed

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

Kaieteur News

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Friday December 17, 2021

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Amanza Walton-Desir and my experience with Roysdale Forde Of all the irrational things Khemraj Ramjattan has uttered, the one that I think that has generated dislike for him among Guyanese Indians was his description of A m a n z a Wa l t o n - D e s i r (AWD) after she condemned the PPP supporters (which of course everyone knows mean Indians) as being mentally lazy and allow the PPP to think for them and they accept what the PPP tells them. Ramjattan said she is the kind of politician the world needs.

I believe AWD was very insensitive and insulting to Indian people. What was morally reprehensible about Ramjattan's declaration was the existence of a scientific fact that proved AWD wrong.

A percentage of Indian people, that supported the PPP and always voted for the PPP, gave their ballots to the AFC in 2006, 2011 and 2015.

The continued existence in politics of Ramjattan and AWD without an apology is

bound to hurt both of them.

Guyana does not have to worry about Ramjattan.

The AFC is dead and Ramjattan's presence in politics is over even if he formally goes over to the PNC. It is AWD who will be a problem.

I f AW D w i n s t h e chairmanship, more internal combustions will occur in the PNC because the new PNC leader as a requirement for staying in the eyes of Guyanese will have to constantly monitor her chairmanship.

If she succeeds as chairman the capacity of the leader to seek cross-ethnic support in the future will be onerous.

In announcing her contest for the second position in the PNC hierarchy, AWD shows that she wants to be elevated in the political life of Guyana. None of the three competitors for power – Harmon, Norton and VanWest Charles have touched

on Burnham. Even Van-West Charles declined to talk about Burnham, his fatherin-law.

They are sensible enough to know two things – The young Guyanese population knows nothing about Burnham, and secondly given Burnham's controversial era, it is best to leave the subject untouched.

On the contrary, AWD waxed lyrical about Burnham.

Is this the person Guyanese want to be second in charge of a powerful force like the PNC? Only two national figures have consistently proclaimed their heroic admiration for Burnham in public. One is David Granger, former president. He is going on to his late seventies. The other is 70-year-old Vincent Alexander.

If, as a future PNC leader, you are going to secure the embrace of young Guyanese it is best to stay away from

eulogising Burnham. The late dictator was and is bad news for Guyana. As history moves on, and the younger generation of Guyana gets younger, Burnham's atrocities and his role in the assassination of Walter Rodney are constantly coming to the surface. No competent historian will paint a positive portrait of Burnham. Such an art is not possible.

There are mistakes that politicians make and many of these sordid lapses get lodged in the deep chasms of people's mind and people will never forget them and they haunt those politicians forever. The example of Eusi Kwayana is potent. At age 10, I heard people criticising Kwayana for advocating racial partition of the country.

To this day, I still hear that refrain. No one in this world will ever forget the things Hamilton Green did to Guyana. Even the current PNC leadership keeps its

distance from Green.

Do you know one of Frederick Kissoon the current leaders of the AFC in June last year, Th e court when the election drama was ruled I should have sued the playing out, advocated the head of the faculty not the Kwayana formula and only head of the law department Dr. Vincent Adams showed The judge, Winston his rejection? None of our so- Moore granted a large sum of called journalists has ever cost. My lawyer, Anil asked the AFC pyramid Nandlall appealed the cost about this horrible advocacy. asking for $50,000 instead of That AFC advocate is an the award of $250,000.

African Guyanese.

Roysdale, working with Mr. AWD's opponent for the Rex McKay's chambers, was chairmanship is a friend of instructed to oppose the mine I have known for over reduction.

25 years – Roysdale Forde He didn't and Justice (wonder if he still considers Perry of the appellate court me a friend). As I wrote reduced it to $100,000. I before, many years ago he think Mr. McKay was gave me the computer I am annoyed and upbraided using to produce this column. Roysdale. I think Roysdale I m e t R o y s d a l e i n left the McKay chamber not circumstances that were long after. disadvantaged to me. And he (The views expressed in endangered his job prospects this article are those of the by helping me. author and do not I had taken UG to court necessarily reflect the for not making the admission opinions of this newspaper.) of law applicants transparent.

Friday December 17, 2021

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Govt. brings new law to 'harvest' human organs T h e G u y a n a Government is preparing to promulgate laws to regulate and manage the harvesting of human organs for transplant and other purposes and for the setting up of an agency in keeping with the proposed legislation.

The Bill was presented to the House yesterday for the first reading by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony.

If passed, the Bill, which would then become an Act of L a w, w i l l t h e n m a k e provisions for the “donation and removal of human organs, tissues, cells and bio fluids for transplantation and blood for transfusion…”

This is in order to provide for their use “for regenerative medicine including cell therapy, gene therapy and stem cell therapy and other therapeutic purposes, for medical education and for scientific research purposes including stem cell research, cell plant research and cell line research, and for connected matters.”

If instituted, the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Bill 2021, will seek to establish a national organisation for human organ, tissue, cell and bio fluid donation and transplantation.

That agency is expected to not only facilitate but will coordinate the process for transplantation in addition to implementing the process to be involved utilising designated officers and hospitals. The proposed law will empower the subject minister to issue directives considered necessary or to give expedience.

The legislation will also provide for the Agency, with the approval of the Minister, collaborate with counterpart organisations in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) or other counterpart international organisations for the exchange of organs, tissues, cells, bio fluids, information and the sharing of information.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e legislation provides that the Minister will establish an advisory board comprising local and international expertise for advising the Minister on matters necessary for the successful implementation of the obligations under the new law.

The legislation also contemplates the establishment of an official registry in order to give effect to the demands of the legislation.

As it relates to the use of medical facilities such as hospitals, the legislation directs that the Minister may

by Order, designate any hospital, healthcare provider or laboratory necessary to meet the obligations spelled out under the proposed law.

With regard the designation of officers to carry out certain function under the laws, it was noted that the Chief Medical Officer or the Director of Medical Services shall

submit nominations to the Minister, who having been satisfied, shall make the appointments for the designated hospitals concerned.

The legislation will provide for donors to provide consent for the harvesting of their organs, to be done by the designated officers.

In order to provide consent, it noted that the individual must be an adult of sound mind and in light of medical advice agrees with the removal of organs. With regard to a minor, the proposed legislation outlines that an Independent

Assessment Committee will be responsible for oversight for this category of donors, subject to the approval of a parent or guardian. The proposed legislation will cater for the conditions under which donations can be made while alive or dead.

Essentially, the Bill, as proposed by the Minister of Health for the donation and removal of human organs, tissues, cells and bio fluids for transplantation and blood transfusion, and their use in regenerative medicine and other therapeutic purposes, medical education and scientific research purposes.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Christopher Stanislaus Anthony

House approves over $4B for GuySuco, education cash grants

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand during the National Assembly hiring.

The National Assembly on Thursday approved over $3.8B to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) for wages, salaries, out-of-crop expenses, as well as the one off $250,000 cash to severed sugar workers.

This was done amid a heated debate between government and opposition members of House over the expenditure for the failing sugar industry. During the session, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha fiercely defended the disbursement of funds, explaining that the monies were to offset various expenditures for GuySuCo. Among the expenses, he said, $1.62 B was needed for wages, $ 83 million for pension $28.335 million for union dues. According to the minister, over 5000 workers who were severed and received their full benefits under the previous administration were given an additional one off cash grant which amounted to over $1.6 billion.

A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC)

Opposition Parliamentarian, Khemraj Ramjattan queried whether the sums for wages and salaries could not have been included in the National budget presented earlier in the year. “This sum for the wages and salaries was something you could have foreseen in time for the budget, so how come it wasn't included and for such a large sum, when did this urgency of disbursement arise?” Ramjattan queried.

In response, Minister Mustapha explained that the money was GuySuCo's outof-crop projects. “This is nothing new!” Mustapha retorted as he continued to explain that the money is necessary for the annual support of the GuySuCo outof-crop projects.

Additionally, he said “…There was a number of emergency works during the period, money was exhausted; we needed to put it back ...”

Opposition Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira then questioned the reasoning and feasibility behind pumping money into GuySuCo. “ We a r e

disbursing monies to GuySuCo which sells sugar on the international markets.

We need to know if the monies are given to a profitable venture. So can the honourable member speak to the profit of the sugar corporation for this period? Figueira asked. He continued that “We cannot be giving GuySuCo billions of dollars every month and that money is going into to failed industry.”

In response to the question, Mustapha stated that the monies disbursed effectively “corrected the wrongs” committed on sugar workers under the previous APNU+AFC collation. “We reduced wastage and we cut the excesses of the previous government especially at the head office.

We have reduced staff tremendously,” he said adding that when the APNU+AFC coalition choose to close down several sugar estates across the country many sugar workers were left without earning.

As such, Mustapha said the one-off cash grant is to alleviate some of the (Continued on page 24)

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Friday December 17, 2021

PPP/C pays US$10M for helicopter, before tender board approved deal Head-of-State, President Irfaan Ali, inside the cockpit of the Bell 412 Helicopter at the commissioning ceremony this year.

One of the contentious drones being viewed by the then officials in charge.

T

he Guyana Defence Force in 2020 was given some $200M to supplement its air, water and land transport fleet that was earmarked for the purposes of buying “tractor, ambulances, boats, outboard engines, and drone.”

The Budget Agency was subsequently provided an additional supplementary allocation of some $2.180 billion bringing the total

amounts allocated for that purpose to $2.380 billion.

The Auditor General, in his report for government spending in 2020, found that the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) awarded a contract in the sum of US$9.500M on 14th December 2020 for the procurement of one Bell 412 EPI Aircraft, and U S $ 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 a s miscellaneous fees for the

cost of fuel, ferrying pilots, landing and navigation charges, airfare for GDF pilots and engineers, personnel allowances, customs fees and aircraft insurance by direct contracting/single source.

It was noted however that the contract was signed on 4th December 2020 between the supplier and the Force; that is, ten days before approval was granted by the NPTAB.

As such, the Auditor General said this constitutes a breach of Section 42 of the Procurement Act. The Bell 412 EPI Aircraft, which was acquired new and have a seating capacity for thirteen persons, was received by the Guyana Defence Force on 15th March 2021. The transaction, importantly was undertaken during the People's Progressive Party Civic administration which

took Office in August of that year and was subsequently approved through the National Assembly, an estimated US$1,909,778 (GYD$414,200,000) as advance payment for the helicopter.

At the time of debating the supplementary request, Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Kumar Singh had reported that, “the budget for 2020 approved a number of specific activities… in this

specific instance, the bringing into operation of these aircraft were identified to be activities that were not anticipated at the time the budget was enacted, but were deemed critical for aerial capacity.”

The U.S. State Department approved the possible foreign military sale of two Bell 412Epi and two Bell 429 helicopters to the Government of Guyana, (Continued on page 22)

Friday December 17, 2021

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Cost for CGX exploration well climbs to US$125M

The Maersk Discoverer semi-submersible oil exploration rig responsible for spudding the Kawa-1 well

…says drilling in Corentyne Block taking longer than expected

T

he Kawa-1 Exploration well being spud in the Corentyne Oil Block Offshore Guyana by CGX Energy Inc. and Frontera Energy Corporation is some 90 percent complete but according to the operators, the well is taking longer than expected.

As such, the cost for the well has since been revised upwards to between US$115M to US $125M million. The joint venture partners yesterday provided the update to say, “…to date, approximately 90 percent of the planned footage has been drilled and the initial results suggest an active hydrocarbon system is present at the Kawa-1 location.”

Additionally it was noted that Horizon 19, the first of three geological zones targeted by the Joint Venture, has been penetrated.

“Logging-While-Drilling and cuttings, indicate the presence of hydrocarbons in several Campanian and upper Santonian

formations,” according to the partners.

The Joint Venture partners, in the report, did say they were pleased to report that despite the delays, the drilling operations have recorded only a single lost time injury since August and Covid-19 protocols have resulted in no disruptions to operations and no positive cases detected after arrival on the drilling unit.

Drilling however, “has taken longer than originally forecast and costs are projected to increase.”

The companies did note that while the Joint Venture will provide an update on costs and will issue full exploration results of the Kawa-1 well, once total depth has been reached and results have been analyzed, “CGX may be required to seek additional financing in keeping with the ongoing drilling program and is currently assessing several strategic opportunities.”

In August last CGX Energy Inc., had secured a semi-

submersible drilling rig to spud the Kawa-1 exploration well in the Corentyne Block.

Kawa-1 well will be targeting a “Santonian age, stratigraphic trap,” interpreted to be similar to the d i s c o v e r i e s m a d e r e c e n t l y, immediately to the east on Block 58 i n S u r i n a m e .

The rig—the Maersk Discoverer—was secured from Maersk Drilling Holdings Singapore Ltd. and is a column stabilised, semi-submersible drilling rig, said to be able to operate in water depths up to 10,000 feet (ft.).

The Kawa-1 well is anticipated to be drilled to a total depth of approximately 6,500 meters, in a water depth of approximately 370 meters.

The rig was contracted for one firm well on the Corentyne Block along with another optional spud in the Demerara Block, according to t h e p a r t n e r s .

The companies said that the Deed

of Guarantee is expected to be provided by Frontera by the end of May. The funding for the exploration activity was secured through a loan that was provided by Frontera to CGX. That company had announced

that it had pledged its Guyana assets in order to secure the loan.

The Joint Venture partners have already submitted a bill to Guyana for some US$155M for its first dry well spud, and currently controls the Demerara and Corentyne Blocks.

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Govt. to dominate oil fund committees ...President, Minister to make all appointments ...no room for media, transparency groups

T

he amendments to the legislation governing the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) which were tabled on Thursday in the National Assembly by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, propose that there be two key committees and a Board of Directors to preside over the management of the nation's oil money.

Importantly, all of the members on these committees as well as the Board will be appointed by the President or his Minister responsible for natural resources.

As part of the governance structure for the NRF, the government proposes to establish a Board of Directors which shall comprise of not less than three and not more than five persons who shall be appointed by the President, and one of whom shall be appointed Chairperson by the President.

The amended Bill proposes that the directors be selected from among persons who have wide experience and ability in legal, financial, business or administrative matters. It was noted that one of the Board members shall be nominated by the National Assembly along with one from the private sector.

The Bill states that the directors shall be appointed for a period not exceeding two years and shall be eligible for reappointment.

It is being proposed that the appointment of the directors and every change in appointment shall be published in the Official Gazette, on the website of Ministry of Natural Resources and in two daily newspapers circulating in Guyana.

With respect to its functions, it is being proposed that the Board be responsible for the overall management of the Fund, reviewing and approving policies of the Fund, monitoring the performance of the Fund, ensuring compliance with approved policies, exerting general oversight of all aspects of operations, and ensuring the Fund is managed in compliance with the Act and other applicable laws.

The Board would also be responsible for preparing the investment mandate.

It was noted that when preparing or amending the

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

President Irfaan Ali

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo mandate, the Board would have to seek the advice of the Investment Committee, be assisted by the Senior Investment Advisor and Analyst of the Fund and enter into an operational agreement with the Central Bank for the operational management of the fund.

Apart from the Board, there would also be an Investment Committee which shall have seven members appointed by the Minister of Natural Resources. They will include nominees from the Minister of Finance, Minister in charge of the oil sector, the Attorney General, Leader of the Opposition, the Private Sector and two ex officio non-voting members: the Senior Investment Advisor and Analyst and a nominee from the Governor of Bank of Guyana.

The Committee would be required to take account of the current conditions, opportunities and constraints in the relevant financial matters, the principle of financial diversification with (Continued on page 22)

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh

PAGE 20

Friday December 17, 2021

Kaieteur News

Chinese company begins removal of manganese from around farmer's house ...resident seeks compensation

A section of Daniel's farm that is affected by the manganese.

Peter Daniels on camera explaining the impact the company's operation is having on his livelihood.

Ongoing removal of the manganese from Daniel's property.

By Shervin Belgrave The Guyana Manganese Inc. (GMI), a 100% owned Chinese company, operating in Mathews Ridge and Port Kaituma, Region One, has reportedly begun removing tons of manganese that it had been storing around a farmer's home, which he said has destroyed his livelihood.

The move comes after Kaieteur News on Sunday published an article detailing the resident's accusation against the company. GMI extracts the mineral from its mining pits located in Matthews Ridge but reportedly stores it at Oronoque, Port Kaituma before shipping it out of the country. One of the places they would store the manganese is around the property of a farmer and a

father of five, Peter Daniels, 52. This action had resulted in vast destruction of the man's crops leaving him with no other means to provide for his family.

He told Kaieteur News that he had become so frustrated and decided to publicly share his story.

About two days after the news article was published, Daniels called this newspaper and related that the company has started to remove the manganese from his property. In fact, the removal process is still ongoing.

However, the farmer is now seeking compensation for the damage he has suffered as a result of the company's actions.

He noted too that as the pile is reducing from in front

of his house, there is a huge hole that is being left.

Daniels said that he is unsure if the company will refill the “deep hole” when they are finished. “If they are leaving it just like that, it can prove to be very dangerous, especially for my children.

One of them can fall in and severely hurt themselves especially at nights.

Apart from this concern, Daniels pointed out that it will take a while for the earth to become fertile again and is now seeking compensation from the company for the severe damage it has caused.

“They will have to pay me for all the plants I lose because nothing will grow back for just now. It's going to take time, plenty time, and that is the only thing I depend on,” Daniels said.

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Friday December 17, 2021

Bids in for $75M Blairmont dumpsite

VEHICLES FOR SALE Honda fit 1.175M negotiable.

Tel:600-4676.

WANTED ExperiencedCashier, Counter sever Roti/ Puri cook, handy boy. Apply Hack's Halaal, 5 Commerce St. One welder must know Grill work.Tel:625-5763.

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 Repairs and servicing, refridgerator, treadmill, washing machine, stove, pressure pump, filtration system dryer, deepfryer etc 694-9733 Repairs at affordable prices: Fridge,Air conditioner, Washing machines, Dryers, TV,Microwaves& Freezer.

Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158.

Skilled Carpenters, Mason, Welder & Labourer to work in Georgetown & Linden.

Call:615-7526/602-9469.

Leibrands financial management and tax consultancy.

Apply via email:leibrands. pmtc@gmail.com& @leibrands. info@ gmail. com.

2 males to work for Holiday in the interior omi age 3545,attractive salary.Tel:6778104.

Pure breed German Shepherd pups,black & tanned. Contact:665-9140.

1 CAT 428 Backhoe $3-5M,1 CAT 416 Backhoe $2M. Houselots available @ Blankenburg. Contact:6500402/652-0251.

8 tower Scafolds 6ftx6ft, american made. Contact:6391178/680-3497.

One Jet 21" sanding machine.

Contact:639-1178/680-3497.

Female cook for the interior & male to work in the interior. Tel:687-7638/660-9093/ 691-3942.

Uptown Kutz Barbershop, Barber wanted.Tel:6017132,address: Fifth St Alberttown.

Shepsky(German Shepherd and Husky Mix) for sale.For more info contact:684-7333.

Xerox Digital Color Machine.

Tel:233-2725/2439.

Indian overseas male seeks female age 30/35.Call:6029975.

Guyana COVID-19 Emergency Response Project for the payments of goods, works, non-consulting services and consulting services to be procured under this project.

Below are the companies and their bids:

Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Preparation of temporary location for accepting waste at Blairmont, West Bank Berbice.

National Communication Network (NCN) Procurement of security services.

Ministry of Education Design and supervision service, for the re-construction of the North Ruimveldt Secondary School building.

Govt. to dominate oil fund...

Ministry of Public Works Supply of transport services for construction materials.

Wanted at People's Choice Kitchen 1 baker. Tel:6799449.

One tutor for part-time teaching for grade six student on W.B.D.Call:614-8957.

One (1) male able bodied clerk.Tel:231-2029,616-5954.

VACANCY Male 18-35yrs to work at 26 Public Rd,Bagotstown glass & aluminium workshop & female waitress for restaurant 18-30.

Vacancy exist for Security Officers,male & female 18yrs & above.Contact:223-4172/ 632-0099.

Driver & Cleaner.Apply with application/CV and passport photo to Survival 16 Vlissengen rd,Newtown Kitty.

PENPAL

NPTAB, was the contract to supply and delivery one cold storage truck, for the Ministry of Health.

This project forms part of the US$7.5 million Guyana received from the World Bank in November 2020.

This amount was intended to go towards the cost of the

Ministry of Health Supply and delivery of one cold storage truck.

1 sale female to work at Stabroek Market.Tel:2265795.

One stone concrete mixture, Honda Engine American made 2 sack ranson. Tel:6391178/680-3497/231-6960.

Brand New Honda 2200 watts super quiet Inverter Generator.Contact: 639-1178/ 680-3497.

implement a National Solid Waste Plan and to move away from the landfill culture.

According to the Mayor, such a plan will guide municipalities, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and Village Council on disposal practices to ensure safe and proper discarding of waste.

“An updated National Solid Waste Management Plan is necessary to guide institutions on proper disposal strategies and provide a platform for engagement to inform Government policies on the construction and maintenance of these facilities to limit the negative environmental and human impact of waste disposal,” the City Mayor said in a press release.

The Mayor’s request comes after he had expressed concerns about the rate at which the Haags Bosch landfill site is filling up.

Also opened at the

1 live in maid.Tel:674-9114.

General domestic,living around Ogle E.C.D 25-45yrs, $25,000 wkly.Tel:610-3974.

FOR SALE

During the opening of bids at the National Procurement and Tender Board Administration (NPTAB) on Thursday, three companies have submitted tenders to take up the job of preparing a temporary dumpsite at Blairmont, West Bank Berbice.

This project which falls under the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is estimated to cost some $75,560,870. Just last week, a project similar to this under the same ministry was opened, for a dumpsite at Enterprise, in Region Six. For that project the ministry’s engineer estimated that it would cost some $47 million to prepare the site. While the Government is looking to establish more dumpsite in the country, City Mayor Ubraj Narine previously made a call for the administration to engage with stakeholders to

Sales Attendant, Cashiers, Porters.Apply with application/CV and passport photo to Survival 16 Vlissengen rd,Newtown Kitty.

PPP/C pays US$10M for...

From page 16 which will be used to conduct maritime surveillance and patrol, search and rescue, interdiction; counter narcotic trafficking and transnational criminal organisations.

The Bell 412Epi specifically has a range of 672km and is a modernised, four-bladed version of the UH-1 Huey utility helicopter.

It is often used for police roles, as well as offshore oil rig worker and military troop transportation.

According to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency, the principal conVACANCY Procurement Clerk.Contact via email(chungsvacanc y@gmail.com). Tel:218-5120 or 632-0914, between 8am to 5pm.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 25-50 car/van licence.

Call:642-9823.

tractor will be Bell Helicopter Textron Incorporated (BHTI), Piney Flats, TN. Another of the contentious purchases that had raised eyebrows in the past relate to the purchase of drones that had come under intense public scrutiny over the perceived exorbitant price paid at the time.

This publication had reported that in December the previous year, the GDF had not only paid for five drones at $36M each--$180M total— but investigations by this publication found that the company—Skyfront Drones—is in fact, a start-up drone company located in a business incubator. Compounding the situation is that government paid as much as five times more than the cost of a similar drone with similar specifications. In fact, the one purchased by the Guyana Government is one that the company only managed to finish designing and testing, months earlier.

From page 19 the objective of maximizing risk-adjusted financial returns and taking into account the capacity of the institutions involved in the management of the fund and the nation's ability to bear financial risk.

As for the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee, Kaieteur News previously reported Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, as saying this would not be preserved in the amended law since 22 members would make it nearly impossible to run the fund. Based on the amendments, the government has

kept a revised version of the body which includes nine members, all of whom will be appointed by the President.

They will include one nominee from the National Assembly, two from the private sector, two from organized labour, one from the professions and three from the religious community.

Importantly, there is no place for media and transparency groups which were catered for in the original legislation. The amended legislation is expected to be debated and passed before year-end.

Kaieteur News

Friday December 17, 2021

PAGE 23

New PNCR leader to be announced by Sunday ...3000 delegates to vote for over 100 posts

W

ith the election process slated to take place on Saturday, a new leader of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) is likely to be announced by Sunday, according to Vincent Alexander, who will be presiding over the process as the Chief Elections Officer (CEO).

Alexander, who also represents the Opposition at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), as a Commissioner, yesterday held a news conference where it was announced that the stage has been set for the election to take place on Saturday.

The Party's 21st Biennial Delegates Congress should have been convened in April of this year; however, the

COVID-19 pandemic had posed challenges. Now that the event is finally ready to take place, the three nominees vying for the post of 'Leadership', Joseph Harmon, Aubrey Norton and Dr. Richard Van West Charles said they are all confident that the process will be free and fair, with the guidance of Mr. Alexander.

There are some 13 polling stations across Guyana that have been set up, in addition to the virtual station in North America.

Over 100 officials will be manning those stations, including agents of the contestants. Five persons will be vying for the post of the Party Chair and 12 for Vice Chair. Another five contestants have been nominated to serve as

(From right) Chief Elections Officer, Vincent Alexander and Candidates for the PNCR leader; Joseph Harmon, Aubrey Norton and Dr. Richard Van West Charles t r e a s u r e r, w h i l e 1 2 3 candidates seeking to be Central Executive Members.

According to Alexander, the Congress will be held in two parts; the business session from 09:00 hours, which will allow for addressing reports and discussions, followed by the elections process at 11:00

International Community providing US$93B to poor countries to boost COVID-19 fight The World Bank on Wednesday announced a US$93 billion replenishment package of the International Development Association (IDA) to help low-income countries respond to the COVID-19 crisis and build a greener, more resilient, and inclusive future.

The financing brings together US$23.5 billion of contributions from 48 highand middle-income countries with financing raised in the capital markets, repayments, and the World Bank's own contributions, the Bank said in a press release.

The financing package, agreed over a two-day meeting hosted virtually by Japan, is the largest ever mobilised in IDA's 61-year h i s t o r y. I D A ' s u n i q u e leveraging model enables it to achieve greater value from donor resources – every US$1 that donors contribute to IDA is now leveraged into almost $4 of financial support for the poorest countries. “ To d a y ' s g e n e r o u s commitment by our partners is a critical step toward supporting poor countries in their efforts to recover from the COVID-19 crisis,” said World Bank Group President David Malpass. “We are grateful for the confidence our partners have in IDA as a non-fragmented and efficient platform to tackle development challenges and improve the lives of millions

of people around the world.”

The funds will be delivered to the world's 74 poorest countries under the 20th replenishment (IDA20) programme, which focuses on helping countries recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis. In these countries, the ongoing pandemic is worsening p o v e r t y, u n d e r m i n i n g growth, and jeopardising the prospects of a resilient and inclusive development.

Countries are struggling with falling government revenues; increasing debt vulnerabilities; rising risks to fragility, conflict, and instability; and dropping literacy rates. About a third of IDA countries are facing a looming food crisis.

To help countries build back greener, a substantial portion of these funds go to tackling climate change, with a focus on helping countries to adapt to rising climate impacts and preserve biodiversity. IDA will also deepen support to countries to better prepare for future crises, including pandemics, financial shocks, and natural hazards.

While IDA20 will support countries globally, resources are increasingly benefitting Africa, which will receive about 70 percent of the funding.

With this strong package, IDA will be able to scale up its support in the pandemic and address health

challenges, helping 400 million people receive essential health and nutrition resources. The social safety net programme is also expected to reach as many as 375 million people. The IDA20 programme has more ambitious policy commitments that will support countries in prioritising investments in human capital, covering issues such as education, health and nutrition, vaccines, safety nets, and support for people with disabilities. IDA will also increase its ambition in addressing other major development challenges such as gender inequality, job creation, and situations of f r a g i l i t y, c o n f l i c t a n d violence, including in the Sahel, the Lake Chad region, and the Horn of Africa. A continued emphasis on governance and institutions, debt sustainability, and digital infrastructure interventions will help foster economic and social inclusion.

Due to the urgent development needs of IDA countries, the replenishment was advanced by one year.

IDA20 will cover the period of July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2025.

The IDA20 policy architecture builds on the strong foundation of IDA19, with enhancements to make IDA20 even more ambitious and fit for today's challenges.

hours. Polls will be closed at 19:00 hours (7pm) on Saturday.

He assured that normal elections best practices, such as a verified voters list have been prepared.

This will allow the approximate voting population of about 3000 to present themselves with a form of identification, as they exercise their franchise.

When asked about the transparency of the process,

Harmon who is seeking leadership said he is confident that the process will be free and fair, with the guidance of Mr. Alexander.

He added that whoever comes out as leader, he would be prepared to work with them, to ensure the strength of the party.

Norton also said he is confident in the elections process and does not think there will be problems to affect the integrity. Dr. Van

West Charles also said he is confident that with the oversight from Alexander will contribute to transparency and accountability.

The Party's 21st Biennial Delegates Congress was set for 11th of December but was postponed to December 18, 2021. Alexander said it was administrative issues, which caused the delay and preparedness of documents and venues among others.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Friday December 17, 2021

Friday Friday December October 29, 17, 2021 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

Article 13 joins call for Yellowtail EIA to be quashed A

rticle 13 joins c a l l f o r Yellowtail EIA to

be quashed A Civil society group that calls itself Article 13 has joined forces with a group of environmentalists, who recently wrote to the Environmental Assessment Board (EAB) to request that ExxonMobil's fourth project, the Yellowtail Development Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), be quashed on the ground that it lacks pertinent information.

In a letter to the EAB that was seen by Kaieteur News, Article 13 said it, “endorses the concerns of a group of citizens in a letter to the Environmental Assessment Board dated 10 December 2021.

They have raised concerns over the conduct of the Environmental Impact Assessment for Exxon M o b i l ' s Ye l l o w t a i l development”.

The group which consists of prominent, outspoken Guyanese such as Chartered Accountant and Attorney at Law Christopher Ram and telecommunications expert Yo g M a h a d e o , R a m o n Gaskin, and Jonathan Yearwood among others said therefore, “We join their call for the Environmental Protection Agency to restart the EIA process from the very start by providing full

transparency in the selection of consultants and to fully address the questions raised by stakeholders during the process,” the group outlined.

Moreover, Article 13 said that due to the nature of the impacts the Yellowtail development is likely to have, the Consultation process should be extended to regional stakeholders, as required by international law.

“We request that the 2020 Environmental Protection Guidelines be re-enacted, and the EIA adhere to these and industry best practice standards,” the Civil society body posited.

On December 10, 2021, a group of international environmentalists teamed up to demand that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scraps the Yellowtail development Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), given that the document fails to address critical subjects such as the impacts of the total waste brought to shore, and baseline data for Guyana's fisheries sector.

In a letter to the EPA, the experts Simone Mangal-Joly, A l f r e d B u h l a i , Va n d a Radzik, Janette Bulkan, Denuta Radzik, Jerry Jailall, Alissa Trotz and Maya Trotz, who all participated in a virtual meeting on November 11, to discuss the impacts of

the project on the environment, said that not only were their questions not answered by ExxonMobil's Consultant, the Environmental Resources Management (ERM), but the recommendation for the firm to provide answers in writing, before the closure of the public comment period, has fallen on deaf ears.

On the 'Impacts of total volume of waste brought to shore for the lifetime of the Yellowtail project' the experts said they need to know “What is the exact quantity of waste that will be brought on shore for the life of the project? What is the constituent component of that waste?

How will the waste be transported and offloaded at treatment site(s)? What specific risks does its transport pose at the specific sites of treatment giving surrounding receptors?

What are the specific toxicities and risks to human health and ecology of each component, and specifically how will the waste be treated to remove toxic components?”

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e environmentalists said they are requesting information on “What Public Communication discharges will there be to air, water, and ground during treatment and what are the chemical

Applications open for US 2022 Youth Ambassadors Programme with Caribbean The U.S. Embassy has announced the opening of applications for its 2022 Yo u t h A m b a s s a d o r s Programme (YAP) with the Caribbean.

Through the exchange, participants will develop their leadership skills, strengthen their ability to serve their communities; and foster relationships and mutual understanding among youth from different ethnic, religious, and national groups and create networks of youth leaders in the Western Hemisphere.

In a press release, the US Embassy said, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the YAP exchange programme is part of the

U.S. continued commitment to the prosperity of Guyana and the region. During their exchange, high school students and adult educators from the Caribbean region and the United States will explore themes such as civic education, leadership, crosscultural connections, and community service. After the programme, students will develop and implement projects that serve the needs of their communities in the months that follow. The programme will be held in August 2022. If safe travel is not possible at the time of the YA P e x c h a n g e , t h i s programme will be conducted virtually.

This programme is open

to public high school students 15-18 years of age, with at least one semester of high school remaining after August 2022 and who are current residents and citizens of Guyana. We encourage all interested students and mentors to visit the U.S. Embassy website at https://gy.usembassy.gov/ed ucation-culture/youthambassador-program/ for more information and applications.

The applications deadline is January 23, 2022. To date, sixty-five students and ten adult mentors have p a r t i c i p a t e d i n Yo u t h Ambassadors Programme for Guyana since September 2012.

compositions of these discharges and what risk do they pose to human health and ecology?

Will any discharge be directly into rivers and estuaries with protected forest species, and if so, what threats do they pose to such bodies over the full life of the Yellowtail project?

Will this discharge affect fisheries and other activities in any estuary?

What is the chemical composition and risks of the residues that will be taken to a landfill?

What is the total volume of waste bound for landfills during the life of the project?

What is the total land demand for such landfill given the volume of waste produced over the life of the project?

What are the standards for operation of such landfill, and what are the risks if these standards are violated?”

When it comes to Baseline information on Guyana's fisheries sector, the

Member of Article 13, Chartered Accountant and Attorney at law Christopher Ram group requested the consultant to provide them with specific data such as the total number of formal and informal operators, size, catch per unit effort in the dry versus the wet season, economic value of formal and informal production, livelihood dependency,

economic linkages, and total economic value of the sector considering linkages with other sectors.

It was also requested that information pertaining to the near-shore and offshore fish nurseries located and mapped by geospatial coordinates be provided.

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

House approves over $4B for GuySuco...

From page 12 hardship that the severed workers would face.

When asked what criteria were used to establish the figure of $250,000 one off sum, Minister Mustapha related that the Government relied on an International Labour Organisation (ILO) report and the social ills that existed in several communities. In closing, he told the National Assembly that approximately 1,200 workers were reemployed by the current PPP/C administration.

The Agriculture Minister highlighted that “no amount of money can compensate these workers for the damage done,” but will create jobs for

the over 30,000 that were displaced by the sugar estate closures.”School cash grant Additionally, the National Assembly approved an additional $285.1 million for the provision of the 'Because We Care' cash grants to private school children. This year, this cash grant was pegged at $19,000 per child since it is a combination of a $15,000 grant and a $4,000 uniform voucher. Initially, a sum of $3.2 billion was allocated to adequately cater for the total cash grant distribution to all public school children.

An additional total of $31 million was requested for cash grants to nursery school children, $175 million to primary

school children, and $77.9 million for secondary school children. Minister of Education, Priya Manickcahand in her presentation noted that “the programme was a promise by the People's Party Progressive/Civic that it would be restored once we got into Government. It was abolished by the APNU AFC.” As a result she said, the Government made “a conscious decision, a caring decision, a decision, in service to, and out of love, to the parents of the children of private schools and decided that all of the children of Guyana going to school, public and private, would be beneficiaries of this caring grant.”

Friday December 17, 2021

84-year-old Region One resident is latest COVID-19 fatality

An 84-year-old man from Region One who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease, has died.

This is according to the Ministry of Health, which reported that the man was an unvaccinated patient who died on Wednesday while receiving treatment at a medical facility. As a result of this, Guyana’s COVID-19 death toll has moved to 1,026.

Meanwhile, in its latest COVID-19 dashboard, the Ministry recorded 44 new infections, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 38,728. Out of this number, 20,463 persons are women while 18,265 are men.

A breakdown of new cases per region shows that Region Six leads with 24 new cases, Region Four with 10, Regions One and Five with three each, Regions, Three, Seven, Nine and 10 with one each. The dashboard statistics also indicates that 11 patients are admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 44 persons in institutional isolation, 685 in home isolation and two in institutional quarantine. To date, a total of 36,962 persons have recovered from the virus.

Friday December 17, 2021

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

Woods in final group at PNC on highly anticipated return SuperSport - Tiger Woods will go out in the final group when he makes his highly anticipated return to competition at this week’s PNC Championship in Orlando, Florida, according to a list of tee times published on Thursday (yesterday).

Woods, who sustained serious leg injuries in a February car crash, and his 12-year-old son Charlie will tee off at 12:18pm ET (1718 GMT) on Saturday (tomorrow) alongside good friend and world number six Justin Thomas, who is playing with his father Mike. Thomas, who has not played with Woods since last year’s PNC Championship, called his friend’s ability to return this week “unbelievable” and said he was happy

for him to be back. ”My excitement level is high just for him being out here and being somewhere other than his house and getting to see a lot of familiar faces,” Thomas, who won the event last year with his father, said on Thursday.”

And I know spending time with Charlie is a huge deal to him. So I know he’s excited for that part. “In terms of the competing, I think his expectations are very low. But, at the same time, he is who he is for a reason, so I’m sure he’d be pissed off if he didn’t play well.” The two-day event at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club is not a PGA Tour event but rather a laid-back 36-hole tournament with a field comprised of 20 major champions and a

member of their family.

Woods, who has not competed since he and Charlie finished in a share of seventh place at the 2020 PNC Championship, announced last week that he would play in this year’s edition.

The 15-times major champion has said his game is nowhere near ready for the PGA Tour as he continues to work his way back from injuries suffered when he lost control of his car in Los Angeles in February.

But Mike Thomas, who is Justin’s coach, played a round with the Woodses last week and was impressed by what he saw.”

It’s crazy how good he’s hitting it and far he’s hitting for what he’s been through,”

Friday December 17, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today is a terrific day for you. You're able to accomplish a lot during the day, leaving the night open for excitement with others.

Once you take care of the necessary things, feel free to grab a big helping of fun.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Don't be surprised if you feel like you're being poked with a stick today, as something urges you to get moving. There's an aggressive energy moving about and making demands on everyone.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Promote balance and harmony today by letting off a bit of steam before you try to engage with others and their dramas.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Pull yourself together, and figure out what it is your heart desires. There's an aggressive force tugging at your heartstrings today.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) There's aggressiveness to you today, but this feeling can be useful to you and what you have going on.

There's a practical force helping you stay grounded and realistic about certain issues.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Point your aggressiveness in the right direction today.

That shouldn't be too hard since you know and understand the meaning of a job well done and what's required to get things accomplished.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) There's increased emotional tension today. You may be at the forefront of the action as you take things higher and farther.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today isn't a day to lounge around. There's a very important practical matter that must be dealt with before you can engage in any lighthearted activities.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't hold back today.

You're the right person for the job in about every situation you encounter. You'll have the instincts required to move on a project, see what needs to be done, gather the resources, and get the ball rolling.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You should try to hold your tongue today. Although you think you have all the answers, you might not have taken all the pieces of the puzzle into account.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Try to keep your emotions in check today. It's possible that you could become extremely angry and do some damage to yourself and others around you.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may feel like someone is trying to rain on your parade. It's important not to forget who you are now.

Don't be surprised if you feel a negative pull from someone or something.

the elder Thomas said of Tiger. “Well, both (Tiger and Charlie),” he added. “But Tiger has been through a lot more than Charlie. It’s impressive where he’s at.”

Woods, the greatest golfer of his generation whose tally of major titles trails only the 18 won by Jack Nicklaus, faced the possibility of having his leg amputated during a threeweek hospital stay after the accident. The penultimate group this week will be comprised of women’s world number one Nelly Korda, who is playing with her father, and twice major champion John Daly and his son. Among the others in the field are former Masters champions Gary Player, Nick Faldo, Vijay Singh, Tom Watson, Mark O’Meara and Bubba Watson.

Swede Henrik Stenson, Zimbabwean Nick Price, Irishman Padraig Harrington and Americans Lee Trevino, Matt

Tiger and Charlie Woods © Getty Images

Kuchar, Jim Furyk, Stewart Cink, Tom Lehman, David

Duval and Rich Beem head the other teams.

Jamaican Olympian....

From page 31 LaBeach was among the first eight persons inducted into its Hall of Fame, by the then Jamaica Amateur Athletics Association (JAAA) and he also received an Olympic Pin from the Jamaica Olympic Association. ”My deepest sympathy to his three children and four grandchildren and to his friends and associates. Jamaican track and field have lost another of its stalwarts but Byron LaBeach played a long innings doing his best for his country.”LaBeach was the second Jamaican Olympian from the 1952 Games to die this year. Les Laing passed away in February at the age of 96.

Max Verstappen...

From page 29 platform to speak about that.

We should be above that.”

A new FIA president will be elected on Friday morning, either Englishman Graham Stoker or Emirati Mohammed bin Sulayem.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner paid tribute to Todt’s achievements over his 12 years in office, among which was the introduction of the halo cockpit head-protection device which saved the life of Frenchman Romain Grosjean in his fiery crash in Bahrain last year, and perhaps a number of other drivers’ as well.”We’ve pushed you hard but you have always kept a balance and a fairness,” Horner said.

“I remember all the discussions about the halo. Not one team wanted the halo but you pushed for it and many drivers owe you their lives as well, not just in F1 but outside F1.”

PAGE 28

Friday December 17, 2021

Kaieteur News

Ashes: David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne grind down England on day one in Adelaide BBCsport - England suffered another dispiriting day in the Ashes as David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne ground down the bowling on day one of the second Test in Adelaide. Labuschagne capitalised on two dropped catches to end 95 not out as the hosts closed on 221-2.

Warner made 95, sharing a stand of 172 in 58 overs with Labuschagne after Stuart Broad removed Marcus Harris in the eighth over. Warner hit a short, wide ball from Ben Stokes to extra cover in the final session - his second dismissal in the 90s of the series - but England were again hurt by their own efforts in the field.

Wicketkeeper Jos Buttler, who had spectacularly caught Harris down the leg side, put Labuschagne down twice, on 21 and again on 95 late in the day - the second a simple, regulation chance under the floodlights.

There were also questionable tactics from England, who re-

called both Broad and James Anderson from the first Test loss but struggled for potency. The day began in dramatic circumstances when, hours before the start of play, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins was ruled out of the Test after being deemed a close contact of someone who tested positive for Covid-19.

However, it ended with Australia, captained by Steve Smith for the first time since the ball-tampering scandal, in a commanding position.

England will have hoped Cummins’ unfortunate late absence would have a similar effect to Australia legend Glenn McGrath stepping on a stray ball in the warm-up to the 2005 Edgbaston Test, a pivotal moment as England famously fought back to win the match and series.

Add in the fact Australia are also without injured bowler Josh Hazlewood in this match, England began with genuine optimism of putting their

Brisbane defeat behind them.

Instead, they are well behind in the game after a chastening first day, as they were at the Gabba.

England opted for a five-man seam attack, leaving out spinner Jack Leach, but after losing the toss on a flat pitch they bowled defensively and failed to find real movement with the pink ball. To make matters worse, when the chances did come Buttler spilled them.

His first drop was tricky, leaping after a gloved pull down the leg side, but his second was as easy as they come. Off Anderson’s bowling, Labuschagne offered a regulation snick from a back-foot drive only for Buttler to spill the ball at a comfortable height moving to his right.

A wicket would have opened an end in bowler-friendly conditions late in the day but instead the home crowd tortured Buttler until the close cheering each delivery he successfully gathered.

Djokovic crowned ITF world champion for record seventh time

David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne set Australia’s foundation. Cricket Australia / Getty

UEFA in no mood for compromise with FIFA over World Cup plan

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates winning his match against Croatia’s Marin Cilic REUTERS/ Susana Vera.

Aleksander Ceferin

Reuters - Men’s world number one Novak Djokovic has been named the 2021 ITF world champion for a record seventh time while women’s number one Ash Barty has picked up her second crown, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said yesterday.

Djokovic, who finished the year as number one for a record seventh time, won the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon while he fell short at the Tokyo Olympics and the U.S. Open final in his quest for a rare golden slam.

The Serb was tied with American great Pete Sampras on six wins for the title first awarded

in 1978. Barty, who won her first Wimbledon title this year and a bronze medal at the Olympics in mixed doubles, previously won the award in 2019. ”After such a rewarding year for me, my team, family and fans it is a great honour to be named the ITF World Champion for the seventh time,” Djokovic said. “I am very grateful and proud for the results I’ve achieved and fortunate I had a chance to compete for the Serbian national team, too.”

Djokovic is tied with Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slams and could make the record his own if he

wins next month’s Australian Open - a tournament he has won a record nine times.

Croatian duo Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic were named ITF men’s doubles world champions after winning nine titles this season, while Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova won the women’s doubles award for a second t ime. ”It has been an incredible year for us - Wimbledon, Olympics, nine titles, yearend number one and now first Croatian pair ever to be named ITF World Champions,” Pavic said.

“It’s something special and we’re very happy about it.”

Manchester, England (Reuters) – FIFA will hold a global summit next week to discuss their plans for holding the World Cup every two years but their biggest opponent, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, shows no sign of backing down.

Ceferin said his organisation had no agreed strategy for Monday’s meeting, suggesting it would not be a defining moment in the process. ”As much as we know FIFA is still pursuing the project, then there are some signals are coming from different sides that they might not pursue it till the end,” the UEFA chief told a news conference. ”We don’t have a particular strategy.

For Monday, it will be 211 federations, that means 500 people at the

videoconference. I don’t expect something very deep. ”But we will listen and we’ll see and we’ll act accordingly.

But for now, we don’t even have the agenda for Monday.

The only thing we know is that it’s called ‘Future of Football’, which can mean a lot and can mean nothing,” he said.

Victor Montagliani, a key ally of FIFA president Gianni Infantino and head of CONCACAF, which governs the game in North and Central America and the Caribbean, told Reuters earlier this month that he was leaning towards a compromise solution.

Montagliani floated the idea of a revamped version of the old Confederations Cup, or a global version of the Na-

tions League concept, as alternatives to a biennial World Cup. But Ceferin said that he had not seen concrete proposals or details of the idea. ”I’m quite fed up of hearing proposals or reading about proposals in the media,” he said.

“I might be naive but I still hope that we will start speaking with some documentation, with some concrete proposals, with some serious ideas and not wait until the morning when the newspapers come to see what is the new proposal of some of our colleagues,” he added.

Ceferin said he hoped that FIFA and the confederations could begin to focus on the future shape of the international match calendar, which needs to be agreed upon for the post-2024 period.

“The problem is that everything is interconnected.

We get proposals for different competitions and that’s why the discussions about the international match calendar are delayed all the t i m e . ” We h a v e n ’t e v e n started to discuss about the calendar because of all those ideas that happened.

I hope that we start discussing about the international match calendar immediately after New Year,” he said.

Friday December 17, 2021

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

NBA roundup: Pelicans’ Devonte’ Graham nails

61-foot buzzer-beater Field Level Media Devonte’ Graham made one of the greatest game-winning buzzer-beaters in NBA history, banking in a 61-footer to give the New Orleans Pelicans a thrilling 113-110 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.

Just moments before Graham’s heave from threequarters court, the Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander nailed a deep 3-pointer of his own with 1.4 seconds left to tie the game. GilgeousAlexander’s 30-footer came as he was avoiding a foul that would have sent him to the free-throw line for two shots.

According to ESPN, Graham’s shot was the longest game-winning buzzerbeater in the NBA in the last 25 years. Additionally, ESPN noted that Wednesday’s thriller marked the first game in the last 25 seasons to feature two tying or go-ahead baskets of at least 30 feet in the final five seconds of a game. Before Graham’s shot, Brandon Ingram (34 points) scored the Pelicans’ previous 10 points. He tied the game with a layup and then put the

visitors ahead with a steal and a dunk on the next possession.

Jonas Valancuinas had 19 points and 16 rebounds for New Orleans, while Graham added 15 points and eight assists.

Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points to lead the Thunder, making all nine of his free throws. In fact, Oklahoma City made all 19 of its freethrow tries — 14 in the fourth quarter.

Lakers 107, Mavericks 104 (OT) - Austin Reaves hit a 3-pointer with one second left in overtime and LeBron James scored 24 points as visiting Los Angeles beat Dallas for its third straight win.

Russell Westbrook had 23 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists for the Lakers, who rallied from a seven-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter and tied the game at 93 on Wayne Ellington’s trey with two seconds left in regulation.

Anthony Davis returned from a two-game absence and tallied 20 points and 12 rebounds for Los Angeles, which won for the sixth time

in its past eight games. Reaves finished with a career-high 15 points. Jalen Brunson scored 25 points to lead Dallas, and Kristaps Porzingis added 23 points and 12 rebounds.

Heat 101, 76ers 96 - Gabe Vincent scored a career-high 26 points, draining a careerbest seven 3-pointers; to lift Miami past host Philadelphia.

Vincent’s trey with 39.2 seconds left snapped a 96-all tie and proved to be the winning shot after the 76ers had wiped out a 23-point deficit.

The short-handed Heat played without Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, Markieff Morris, Victor Oladipo and Caleb Martin.

The only player in health and safety protocols was Martin.

Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers with 27 points and Tobias Harris added 24.

Joel Embiid had 17 points and 14 rebounds but missed a potential tying 3-point attempt with less than two seconds left. Danny Green chipped in with nine points, six rebounds and five steals.

Bucks 114, Pacers 99 - Milwaukee put together a 21-0 run in the fourth quarter to

New Orleans Pelicans guard Devonte’ Graham (4) celebrates after hitting the game winning three point shot Alonzo AdamsUSA TODAY Sports

defeat visiting Indiana for the third time this season. After Indiana took a 92-91 lead with just about 10 minutes remaining, the Bucks held the Pacers scoreless for nearly eight minutes to compile a rally that would hand them their ninth straight home win.

With Giannis Antetokounmpo and Donte DiVincenzo in health and safety protocols and Khris Middleton sidelined due to a hyperextended knee, Jrue Holiday led the Milwaukee offense with 26 points and a season-high 14 assists. Domantas Sabonis

had 16 points and 14 rebounds for the Pacers.

Results elsewhere; Jazz 124, Clippers 103, Hawks 111, Magic 99, Kings 119, Wizards 105, Grizzlies 113, Trail Blazers 103, Cavaliers 124, Rockets 89, Timberwolves 124, Nuggets 107, Hornets 131, Spurs 115.

BBCsport Max Verstappen says Lewis Hamilton has every reason to return to Formula 1 next year despite his unhappiness over the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff said on Thursday that Hamilton was “disillusioned” and he could not guarantee he would return next year.

Verstappen said: “I can understand the first few days after a race like that you’re not happy. “But you should also understand this is racing and these things can happen.”

Verstappen said seven-time champion Hamilton should spend some time thinking about what he has achieved in F1 - and what he could go on to achieve. ”He should just look back at what he has achieved already,” said the Red Bull driver said, who grabbed the championship from Hamilton on the last lap of the Abu Dhabi race after a controversially handled safety-car period. ”That should give him a lot of comfort and it should also be that drive to keep on going because he is still trying to challenge for that eighth title and for sure he can

do that next year so I don’t see any reason to give up just now.” Verstappen pointed out that Hamilton himself had won a title in similar circumstances, when he deprived Ferrari’s Felipe Massa on the last corner of the last lap of the last grand prix in 2008. “I don’t feel sorry [for him] but I can understand that it can be very painful but at the end of the day,” he said. “He also won a championship like that.”Verstappen was officially presented with the world championship trophy at the prize giving gala of governing body the FIA in Paris on Thursday (yesterday).

Hamilton and Wolff did not attend, in protest at the events of Abu Dhabi.Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas was due to attend but the FIA said he had been with his new Alfa Romeo team at their base in Switzerland and his flight had been delayed. Mercedes’ constructors’ championship trophy - which they have won for a record eighth consecutive season - was collected by chief technical officer James Allison.Outgoing FIA president Jean Todt has launched a review of the events of Abu

Dhabi and the season after a series of controversies over inconsistent decisions by officials. The FIA has also admitted that the image of F1 has been “tarnished” by the Abu Dhabi controversy.Todt said of Verstappen: “He gets what he deserves. He made a great season. You focus on the last lap. It’s true he was very lucky on the last lap. But you should see the whole season.

Was he lucky in Silverstone?

Was he lucky in Azerbaijan?

Was he lucky in Budapest?

He was not.” Todt refused to be drawn on whether Hamilton and Wolff would be penalised for not attending the prize giving ceremony, as is required of them in the sporting regulations. “Tonight we should celebrate rather than trying to get into any kind of controversy,” Todt said. ”There is no point. What would it give? In a way, I feel sorry because Mercedes should have much more reward. Eight times champions for the manufacturers is something unique. “Are we going to punish because he’s not coming? This is not the (Continued on page 27)

Max Verstappen says Lewis Hamilton ‘has every reason’ to return to F1 next year FIA’s prize giving gala in Paris on Thursday night.

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Kaieteur News

Friday December 17, 2021

Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam lead Pakistan to 3-0 sweep ESPNcricinfo - Yet another clinical display from Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam powered Pakistan to their highest successful chase in T20I cricket as they beat West Indies by seven wickets in the third T20I in Karachi.Batting first on a wellrolled surface, West Indies rode on Nicholas Pooran’s 37ball 64 and breezy 40s from Brandon King and Shamarh Brooks to post a challenging 207 for 3. But a 158-run stand between Rizwan and Babar, in just 15.1 overs, all but ensured a 3-0 scoreline.Babar contributed 79 off 53 balls, while Rizwan was the aggressor, hitting 87 off just 45 with the help of ten fours and three sixes.

During his knock, Rizwan also completed 2000 runs in T20 cricket this year. When the winning runs were scored, Pakistan still had seven balls remaining.Earlier in the day, the game was put in jeopardy after Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, and Justin Greaves tested positive for Covid-19 but both teams decided to go ahead with the match. That, however, meant West Indies had to field a severely depleted side, as they were already without Sheldon Cottrell, Roston Chase and Kyle Mayers - all three had tested positive at the start of the tour - and Devon Thomas, who has a finger injury. The side, though, put up their best performances of the series but that wasn’t enough to prevent a whitewash.

King’s birthday bash - On his 27th birthday, King decided to throw caution to the wind. He opened his account with back-to-back fours off Mohammad Nawaz in the first over. On both occasions, he gave himself room and hit the ball through the off side. That remained his modus operandi for most of his innings even as he didn’t middle the ball all the time.

Nawaz came in for more pun-

Brandon King and Shamarh Brooks get together © PCB Nicholas Pooran goes big © Asif Hassan/AFP via Getty Images

ishment in his next over. First, Brooks drilled him past midon and then King hit the last three balls of the over for six, four and four. From the other end, King fetched three fours across Mohammad Hasnain’s two overs, and as a result, West Indies motored to fifty in just 4.2 overs.

On the penultimate ball of the powerplay, King once again backed away and launched Mohammad Wasim Jr for a 98-metre six, the ball landing on the roof of the deep-midwicket stands.

Wasim, though, made a comeback the very next ball, uprooting King’s off stump as the batter failed in his attempt to late-cut a fuller delivery.

Brooks cuts loose - West Indies finished the powerplay on 66 for 1. Brooks, who was batting on 21 off 16 balls at that point, decided it was his turn to cut loose. He skipped

Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam run between the wickets © PCB

down the track against Nawaz but ended up skying it towards long-on, where Iftikhar Ahmed and Hasnain, running in from long-off, messed up their calling, and despite both fielders next to each other, neither got their hands to the ball.Shadab Khan ended up paying the price for that drop as Brooks hit him for three sixes in four balls in the next over. But just like King, he too fell short of his half-century.

Shahnawaz Dahani hurried him with a short ball and had him caught at deep midwicket.

Pooran propels WI further The Pakistan bowlers had bowled West Indies out in the first two T20Is but on Thursday night, there was no respite for them. With two lefthanders in the middle, Babar Azam tried to sneak in an over of offspin from Iftikhar but Pooran thumped him for two sixes. He was equally belligerent against Hasnain, whom he took for 19 off six balls, including two sixes and a four.

Pooran’s assault meant West Indies didn’t lose the momentum despite Darren Bravo struggling on 17 off 16 balls at one stage. Pooran brought up his half-century off 31 balls but after his dismissal, West Indies could score only 15 off the remaining 14 balls.

The Babar-Rizwan show Chasing a daunting total, Babar and Rizwan didn’t have the luxury of time to get their eye in. But the two are in such good form that without taking any risk, they kept striking at around ten an over throughout their partnership.

There were drives through covers and down the wicket, sweeps along the ground and over the infield, and hard-run

ones and twos. Rizwan was the first to reach his half-century, off just 26 balls; Babar took 40 balls to bring up his.

While Rizwan did heave a couple over deep square leg, apart from slog-sweeping debutant Gudakesh Motie, Babar didn’t hit his first six until the 13th over. That too when Oshane Thomas provided the necessary pace.

Clearing his front leg, he creamed Thomas over the wide long-off boundary before hitting the next two balls for fours.

The only chance that came West Indies’ way was when Babar went to cut Motie in the seventh over, but Pooran put down the outside edge. Babar was on 28 then, Pakistan on 62. Babar eventually fell to Odean Smith, hitting a knuckle ball to long-off, when Pakistan needed 50 from five overs. The finishing touches - If West Indies were thinking of a comeback, Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman didn’t let that

happen. When Rizwan miscued a full toss from Dominic Drakes with Pooran taking the catch near short fine leg, the equation had come down to 24 needed from 16 balls. Asif Ali (21* off 7) then hit a flurry of boundaries to level the scores. With one run required, Romario Shepherd had Asif skying the ball towards long-on where Rovman Powell dropped the catch.

That one ball encapsulated the series from West Indies’ point of view: this young bunch has the potential but they still need to work on their skills.

Covid plays havoc with world sport as infection rate surges World sport was again hit

by Covid-19 infections on Thursday (yesterday) with soccer and rugby matches called off, a cricket series cancelled and holiday action in North America under threat.

A wave of new infections, driven by the new Omicron variant of coronavirus, suggested more postponements and cancellations will follow as sporting codes warily await the impact.

The Premier League fixture list was thrown into chaos as six games were postponed due to Covid outbreaks taking the total for the past week to nine but league officials intend to continue with the schedule where safely possible as new Covid-19 cases in Britain hit a record for the second day running on Thursday (yesterday).

The Premier League found a record 42 cases of COVID-19 among players and staff at various clubs this week, leading Brentford manager Thomas Frank to suggest all this weekend’s games should be postponed as cases “are going through the roof”.With 13 new positive cases at his club, Frank told a news conference: “To

postpone this round would give everyone a week at least, or four or five days to clean and do everything at the training ground so everything is clean and you break the chain.” Amid a multitude of postponements in England’s lower leagues, the Football League (EFL) on Thursday ordered clubs to implement enhanced safety protocols for training, with social distancing and restrictions on the use of indoor facilities, manual therapy and group travel.

LaLiga leaders Real Madrid were struck a blow when four more players tested positive on Thursday to add to Luka Modric and Marcelo, who had been forced into quarantine some 24 hours earlier. But Sunday’s home game against Cadiz is going ahead.Rugby’s European Champions Cup has also been hit with Montpellier’s game at home to Leinster the latest to be postponed over Covid cases in both squads, while Welsh club Ospreys suggested their trip to Racing 92 in Paris could also be off with at least seven positive cases in their camp.Holiday Season Over the last three days, the National Football League, Na-

tional Hockey League and National Basketball Association have faced a surge in positive tests, with more expected on Thursday (yesterday), forcing players into league mandated Covid-19 protocols and the postponement of games. The holiday season across the United States and Canada is usually filled with sporting action but, with the coronavirus spreading through locker rooms, fans may not see all their favourite players.Australia captain Pat Cummins had to miss the second Ashes cricket test, which started in Adelaide on Thursday (yesterday), after a close contact with someone who tested positive for the virus.

West Indies’ tour of Pakistan was cut short after the number of positive Covid-19 cases in the touring party rose to nine. A third T20 international went ahead on Thursday but the three-match one-day international series to follow is now off. Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc said he was self-isolating at home in Monaco after testing positive. The news came after Sunday’s conclusion of the Formula One season.

Friday December 17, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 31

Jamaican Olympian Bryon LaBeach dies in California at the age of 91 Minister Grange said despite not being as famous as his other relay teammates,

Bryon LaBeach

Sportsmax - The Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) and Jamaica’s Minister of Sport Olivia Grange have expressed regret at the passing of Jamaican Olympian Bryon LaBeach, who died in California on Sunday, December 12, at the age of 91.

LaBeach was a member of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay team at the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki as well as the 4x400m relay team that won gold. He was also a member of Jamaica’s 4 x 100m relay team that won gold at the CAC Games in Mexico City i n 1 9 5 4 . ”Byron LaBeach, an Olympian and a servant son of the soil, has departed this mortal life and is now clothed in immortality. The Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) mourns the loss of a revered son of our household but will always remember the character that he infused in the life of our home,” said JOA President Christopher Samuda in a statement on Wednesday. ”I salute Byron LaBeach not only for his achievements in the athletic arena but also for the selfless spirit and valour he embodied which, for successive generations of athletes, should be an invaluable lesson in life in sport and beyond. ”These attributes earned him coveted places in the Helsinki 1952 Olympic Games and Mexico City 1954 Central American and Caribbean Games. The Olympic pin which he received officially in June 2019 was for us, more than a symbolic act. The conferment represented the soul of Olympism which he exemplified with ineffable h u m i l i t y. ” M e a n w h i l e ,

LaBeach deserved the c o u n t r y ’s r e c o g n i t i o n . “ F r o m e a r l y, h e w a s

promising with good performances at Gaynstead private school from where he

got a scholarship to St George’s College and later fulfilled his promise,

representing Jamaica well. ”Deservedly, Byron (Continued on page 25)

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Kaieteur News

Friday December 17, 2021

Action in the Mixed Doubles semi finals between Akili Haynes & Priyanna Ramdhani vs. Easa Sanichara & Priyanka Shivnath.

Trophy Stall Badminton Christmas Tournament set to end this evening at CASH The 2021 edition of the Trophy Stall sponsored Guyana Badminton Association Christmas Tournament is set to come to an end this evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) with a number of finals.

The best players in the land are competing and the crème de la crème including eth Ramdhani siblings have come to the fore and will contest the championship matches in the various categories from this afternoon at 17:00hrs.

Second day action took place on Wednesday afternoon last when a number of quarter and semi final matches were contested. Following are the respective results: Men’s Doubles SemiFinals - Narayan Ramdhani & Jonathan Mangra defeated Easa Sanichara & Matthew Beharry 21-15, 21-7. Akili Haynes & Tyrese Jeffrey defeated Marlon Chung & Priyanna Ramdhani 21-14, 21-14.

Men’s Doubles Third Place - Marlon Chung &Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Easa Sanichara& Matthew Beharry 21-16, 2112.

Women Doubles SemiFinals - Priyanna Ramdhani & Shivannie Persaud defeated Priyanka Shivnauth

& Mishka Beharry 21-6, 2114. Christina Kumar & Anna Perreira defeated Ayanna Watson & Emily Ramdhani 2 1 - 1 2 , 2 1 - 1 8 .

Women’s Doubles Third Place - Ayanna Watson & Emily Ramdhani defeated Priyanka Shivnauth & Mishka Beharry 17-21, 2220, 21-18.

Mixed Doubles Quarter Finals - Akili Haynes & Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Easa Sanichara & Priyanka Shivnauth 21-13, 21-9.

Mixed Doubles SemiFinals - Akili Haynes & Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Jonathan Mangra & Shivannie Persaud 21-12, 21-5. Narayan Ramdhani & Mishka Beharry defeated Marlon Chung & Ambika Ramraj 21-10, 21-15.

Mixed Doubles Third Place - Jonathan Mangra & Shivannie Persaud defeated Marlon Chung &Ambika Ramraj 16-21, 21-16, 21-11.

Mixed Doubles Consolation Quarter Finals – Easa Sanichara & Priyanka Shivnauth defeated Zachary Persaud &Elesa Sangster 21-9, 21-9.

M i x e d D o u b l e s Consolation Semi-Finals – Easa Sanichara & Priyanka Shivnauth defeated Ayanna Watson & Matthew Beharry 22-20, 19-21, 2114.

Pakistan v West Indies: Covid-19 outbreak forces postponement of one-day series BBCsport - West Indies’ one-day international series in Pakistan has been postponed because of nine positive Covid cases within the tourists’ camp.

Batter Shai Hope, leftarm spinner Akeal Hosein and all-rounder Justin Greaves have been confirmed as positive cases, along with Assistant Coach Roddy Estwick and Team Physician Dr Akshai Mansingh.

Four more positive tests on Thursday (yesterday) forced the postponement of the one-day leg of the tour, which will now be rescheduled for early June 2 0 2 2 .

The two teams completed a Twenty20 series in Karachi on Thursday (yesterday), but because World Cup qualification points were on offer in the one-day series, West Indies asked to reschedule.

Friday December 17, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 33

GFF-K&S Super 16 Cup – Powered by KFC-Guyana

GFA All Stars aims to arrest Police; Buxton United seeks to halt Ann’s Grove @ NTC Leonora today Q

uarter-final slots will be on the line this evening when action in the GFF-K&S Super 16 Cup – Powered by KFC-Guyana continues at Leonora Track and Field Facility with another double header.

The Georgetown Football Association All Stars will be throwing down the gauntlet to the Guyana Police Force FC in today’s opening clash at 16:00hrs.

This would be the GFA’s third match while it would be the first for the lawmen.

Very familiar now with

GFA Captain, Mark Jhalu (on ball) will harbor ambitions of leading his side to another win today. Franklin Wilson photo.

the surface at Leonora, the GFA side will hope to notch their third win which will see them booking a place in the quarter finals; however, the Police team will be going all out to halt the City side’s charge by sending them packing.

The main attraction will be an all East Coast affair with Buxton United taking on Ann’s Grove United from 20:30hrs.

Two potentially exciting matches is anticipated as the race for the top prize of Two Million Dollars heats up further.

GFF-GNWFA Women's Super 16 Festival

Vincent, Benjamin leads GT Panthers to comprehensive 13-0 swamping over Mahdia

By Zaheer Mohamed

Annalisa Vincent and Feona Benjamin produced sterling performances to lead GT Panthers to a comprehensive 13-0 victory over Mahdia when the Guyana Football F e d e r a t i o n - G N W FA Women's Super 16 festival continued yesterday afternoon at the National Training Centre, Providence.

Vincent and Benjamin, both of Region One, were impressive in front of goal with the former scoring six Vincent, Benjamin leads GT Panthers to comprehensive 13-0 swamping over Mahdia goals and Banjamin a helmet-trick as GT Panthers

proved merciless. Vincent put her team ahead in the 7th minute when she found the back of the net from the edge of the area.

Benjamin was denied twice shortly after while Mahdia hardly had any opportunity to score, compliments of some stern defending from GT Panthers.

Vincent stretched her team's lead, finding the back of the net from a corner in the 27th minute while Benjamin scored her first, two minutes later when she headed home a corner. Shavey Reuben had a fair chance to extend the team's lead, but her shot from within the box hit the upright and rebounded into play and Vanellie Benjamin failed to capitlaise, her shot

hitting the upright even as GT Panthers continued to dominate.

Benjamin further stretched her team's advantage when she collected a pass from midfield and worked her way into the box before firing home in the 35th minute.

Vincent achieved a hattrick two minutes later when she collected the ball following a corner and beat g o a l k e e p e r Va n e s s a Domingo from the edge of the area in fine fashion.

Benjamin followed suit with her hat-trick in the 38th

from inside the area before Shavey Reuben added another in the 42nd. Vincent slotted home in the 44th to hand her team a 8-0 lead at the break.

Mahdia struggled to match their opponents expertise and Bethsaida Williams made it 9-0 in the 52nd while Faye Williams slotted home in the 54th minute.

Benjamin found the back of the net from inside the box in the 62nd after which Vincent netted in the 74th and 75th minute to crown off a fine performance for her team.

Annalisa Vincent in control for GT Panthers. Zaheer Mohamed photo

Tickets on Sale for GBBFF Senior Nationals; Bess promises exciting night Keavon Bess

All systems are in place for the Guyana Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation (GBBFF) National Senior Championships scheduled to be held on Sunday at the National Cultural Center (NCC), Mandela and H o m e s t r e t c h Av e n u e .

According to head of the sports body, Keavon Bess, tickets are quickly being sold in anticipation of what is expected to be a fantastic show.

Bess confirmed that approval from the relevant authorities to ensure that there is a live audience have been received; he also indicated that those that may not have the opportunity to be present, will be able to view the championships live via the GBBFF social media page.“The work that the athletes would've been putting in thus far is

unbelievable to say the least.

Despite the challenges, our athletes have stuck with the punches, and I'm confident that come Sunday night, most our athletes may be in the best shape of their lives”, Bess highlight.

He continued that, “Our athletes have remained very motivated and have been able to take their bodies to another level and I am certain that all of the bodybuilding fans in Guyana will be pleasantly pleased with the work the athletes have been able to put in.”Bess conveyed his heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors that made the event possible inclusive of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sports, Fitness Express and TSD Shipping & Trading Inc.

GFF-GNWFA GFF-GNWFA Women's Women's Super Super 16 16 Festival Festival

Vincent, Benjamin leads GT Panthers to comprehensive 13-0 swamping over Mahdia Feona Benjamin (#32) scored a helmet-trick for GT Panthers.

Zaheer Mohamed photo

Annalisa Vincent (#12) led GT Panthers to a resound win, netted six goals. Zaheer Mohamed photo

Trophy Stall Badminton Christmas Tournament set to end this evening at CASH

Women’s Doubles Semi Finalists, Emelia Ramdhani/Ayanna Watson (left) vs. Christina Kumar/Anna Perreira with Umpire Matthew Beharry.

Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam lead Pakistan to 3-0 sweep

Brandon King and Shamarh Brooks get together © PCB

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