Kaieteur News

More fines for K NEWS company involved in disastrous oil spill in Peru

Saturday Edition

AIETEUR

February 19, 2022 - Vol. 16 No.08 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 82,884

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

Repsol secures rig for new oil well in Kanuku Block

- as ExxonMobil extends contract terms for future projects including Yellowtail

Renewable energy projects must be adaptable to impacts of climate change - Caribbean expert

Prominent attorney-at-law and Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram, was among the citizens who protested this week in front of the Marriott Hotel for a better oil deal.

Highest bidder wins contract to rehabilitate Mazaruni Prisons

2 hours of sunshine can power…asGuyana country spends US$150M for 1 year importing fuel for electricity - GEA's Dr. Sharma

Trotman started the sellout and instead of stopping it, on Kaieteur Ali and Jagdeo accelerating the process! @11:00hrs Radio 99.1/99.5FM

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2 hours of sunshine can power Guyana for 1 year …as country spends US$150M importing fuel for electricity

By Gary Eleazar Inviting conference delegates to embrace a transition towards renewable sources of energy in the future such as solar and literally “drive on sunshine”, Head of the Guyana Energy A g e n c y ( G E A ) , D r.

Mahender Sharma has indicated that Guyana currently receives enough sunshine every two hours, to power the country's present electricity demands for an entire year.

Dr. Sharma was at the time addressing delegates at t h e f i r s t e v e r E n e rg y Conference and Expo, on Thursday last, organised by Chairman Anthony White and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Angenie Abel, along with coordinators and venued at the Marriott International Hotel. The event wrapped up on Friday.

He was, at the time, tasked with providing delegates and other stakeholders with an update from GEA on renewable energy projects in Guyana and noted as example, the fact that using the solar panels installed at that government agency's offices, he is able to charge his electric car on weekends that proves sufficient for his transportation needs during the course of the weeks.

Prefacing his update on Guyana's renewable energy projects, he noted that the country last year imported some 20,300 barrels of oil daily spending about US$150M to meet electricity generation demands.

GEA Head, Dr. Mahender Sharma He noted importantly that the power supplied by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Incorporated, through the Demerara Berbice I n t e r c o n n e c te d S y s t e m (DBIS) only caters for about 78 percent of the citizenry.

The GEA head in his presentation used the import figures to illustrate, “we are still fairly dependent on fossil fuel; our expenditure for those fossil fuel imports for the electricity sector amounted to US$150M in 2021.”

According to Dr. Sharma, DBIS, “the grid that is providing much of the electricity, accounts for about 78 percent of that total cost.”

TRIPLING DEMAND With this in mind, Dr. Sharma indicated that capacity is needed to meet the growing demand for electricity, a situation compounded by the removal of aging power generation sets.Dr. Sharma too, in his presentation referenced the assertion promulgated by government officials at the conference that Guyana's

electricity demands will triple in the next five years.

As such, he posited, “if we are to remain on the business as usual direction, we would be faced with high consumer cost, tripling of greenhouse gas emissions and a steady increase thereafter.”

In terms of making Guyana the energy capital of the Region, as adumbrated by Head-of-State, President Irfaan Ali when he took Office, Dr. Sharma noted that the new energy mix is intended to include the use of solar photovoltaic systems, in addition to hydro and wind.The objectives, he said, are built around the expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), “looking at expanding renewable energy a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y, decoupling economic growth from the use of fossil fuel and approaching a low carbon direction.”

The GEA head noted that natural gas is only meant to be used in the short term, providing the capacity needed at a lower generation cost, compared to the Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) presently used by GPL. With regard present initiatives, delegates were provided with an update on solar farms already constructed, under construction or to be constructed.

These include a solar farm in Mabaruma, another at Lethem in Region Nine, and one at the Caricom Secretariat, the GEA building and at Bartica, among other locations including 290

- GEA's Dr. Sharma

One of the PV solar system panel arrays mentioned by GEA's Dr. Mahender Sharma. government buildings.

According to Dr. Sharma, “the installed capacity for the solar farms alone represents 39MW over the next few years.”

LETHEM 100% RENEWABLE He elucidated saying, this would be coming from 13 solar farms and 28 solar minigrids.This is in addition to the installation of some 30,000 solar home units, among other initiatives.

He noted too that the administration was looking to install two small hydro plants in Lethem, Region Nine that would be complemented by a solar farm, so “on that singular mountain range alone, you have the Moco Moco, Kumu (small hydro power plants) and a solar farm providing

100 percent renewable energy for Lethem.”

Having outlined some of the initiatives, Dr. Sharma indicated to those in attendance that, “we (Guyana) get quite a bit of energy from the sun, every two hours, we get about 430 quintillion joules.”

As such, he concluded that in “one hour and 20 minutes, we receive the same amount of energy that we consume for an entire year, only from the sun.”

With this in mind, he told the delegates “the potential for solar is huge.”

He said that by 2030, based on domestic projections, 30 percent of our energy is going to come from renewable energy and by 2040 that goes up to 70 percent with a combination

of hydro, wind and solar.

Dr. Sharma did note, however, that in order to achieve the outlined objectives, there needs to be additional investments into activities such as grid modernisation and qualified his position saying, “it's important, to get the grid to perform the way we need it, the outages (blackouts) sometimes are driven by those issues.”

According to Dr. Sharma, “a significant amount of investment is needed to get to that point.”He noted that it is the expectation that government would in future press to utilise solar more and more with the improvements in battery and hydrogen technology, “to get to the point where we can utilise more of this (solar).”

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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

Lata Mangeshkar, the singing nightingale of India Th Singing Nightingale of India has sung her last song, crooned her last symphonic melody to man and hymn to the gods of music, taken her last bow on the earthly stage that she has dominated for the incredible span of eight decades. The superlatives cascade like a rushing torrent for this saint of a singer, who thrilled audiences throughout India, and resonated all the way over here to the other side of the world in Guyana, Trinidad, and Suriname. Even in Western societies, the grandeur of her singing style and voice, cut many to pieces, which speaks volumes to her broad, almost global, appeal, and the enchantments that she brought to tens, if not hundreds, of millions, of listeners worldwide. It may not be inaccurate to say that her admirers numbered hundreds of millions.

In a world of hits and misses, egos and eccentrics, excesses and gaudy showmanship, Lata Mangeshkar let her voice and the melody of her marvelous voice ring into the ears and hearts of countless many. What a singer, she was. What a performer in the simple graceful lines of her clean-cut delivery, the soaring trilling power of her crescendos. Lata possessed a voice and a range, a skill to make even the most stony-hearted melt in surrender and weep with joy.

There have been comparisons to other lesser mortals.

But how can there be a comparison with one who is an immortal, gifted with peerless powers of crooning and warbling that just did not have its equal in her time, and perhaps for all time to come. All India mourns for her in a national outpouring of loss and grief, who to some was just a voice on the radio to those who had one, a playback singer of rare, delightful allure. It was a sign of her talents, her envy generating versatility that Lata was able to work smoothly with a succession of giant Indian composers and arrangers in the charmed Bollywood circle that does not have much patience with pretenders and mediocrity, but who were quick to recognise genius when they saw it, and most of all heard it close up in the person of Lata Mangeshkar.

Indian music maestros in the calibre of men like Laxmikant-Pyarelal and R.D. Burman and S.D. Burman, among others, came into close contact with this singing sensation, and reaped the benefits of many movie outings with her providing the sweet, out of this world sounds that came to be associated with her voice and her prolific output.

In her own words, Lata said she can’t “believe I have been tolerated by music lovers for 75 years.” In recognition of her long and outstanding contribution to music, she was awarded the highest civilian honour that her country of birth, India, could have given. Most astonishing of all is that she was similarly honoured with its highest civilian honour by France of all places. As we say this, we remember that the French have an ear, eye, and deep appreciation for the cultural heights, which Lata personified and delivered in spades without letup. In fact, it is a tribute to her musical stature that Lata, this almost exclusively Hindi language singer, could have enjoyed favourable receptions and wide followings in largely Muslim Pakistan and Bangladesh.

In Guyana, she had and would still have her legions of admirers and followers, for whom even her passing does not cut the cord, does not make a difference; once that voice is around on some musical channel or medium, then she will be thrilled to, and be a source of romantic nostalgia for the great memories that she instilled in many. Again, Lata’s almost incomparable ability, that near effortless ease, to cross boundaries and hurdle barriers, even without conscious effort, has its place and outcome right here in Guyana. We say this because there are some Afro Guyanese who could speak with admiration, if not awe, of ‘Dheere, dheere, machal’ one of her timeless classics that triumphed over the puny limits of time.

There is so much more that could be said of this grand lady of Indian music. We take our bow with heartfelt thanks for the moments that were pure magic.

The Wales Gas-to-Shore project will end up being a white elephant DEAR EDITOR, It took a presentation by Winston Brassington to shed some light on the proposed Wales gas-to-shore project.

His presentation confirms what the opposition and the general public has been saying for the last eighteen months – which is, the current gas availability is limited to production of electricity only.

At the official media briefing on April 26, 2021, the country was regaled that this project will not only supply cheap power and LPG, but also fertilizer (Ammonia, Urea and other agro-processing byproducts), solid waste pyrolysis and even a cement plant.

In other words, the natural gas to be piped to shore would kick start Guyana’s industrial revolution – a no brainer!

These myths were con-

stantly peddled in the public and even repeated by Government Ministers in the recent parliamentary debate on the project where some of the glorified glossing of this project found its way into Budget 2022. Our ever-accommodating private sector, swallowed these tall tales, hook line and sinker and took to the airwaves promoting the project by referencing how much money will be saved since we are soon producing our own fertilizers and cement.

It appears the government is very comfortable lying to its own citizens as well as the Parliament but draws a line when addressing a group of foreigners attending a highpriced conference.

It has now been confirmed that the 50mcf of gas piped to shore will only be sufficient to power the generating sets and a small LPG

plant. All the other bells and whistles used to justify this project cannot be done at this initial stage nor in the foreseeable future. Guyana will be expending over US$1.4B and counting (Exxon–US$900M + GOG US$504M) for 250MW generating sets.

This is an incredible amount, considering the fact that the current cost for 1MW of generating power is approximately US$1M. That’s correct; 250MW of natural gas-powered generating sets can be procured for approximately US$250M - yet, the Government is paying US$1.4B.The public deserves to be told what is the rationale for paying US$1.15B more under the Wales Gas-toShore project.

Mr. Brassington’s presentation also confirms that the country will be paying Exxon for our own gas. At minimum, one would have expected the gov-

ernment to leverage the fact that they have, despite public reservations, always been very generous and accommodating with Exxon on issues such as the Payara approval, Yellowtail approval (soon to be issued), consistent flaring in violation of their permit, lack of full coverage insurance and wastewater dumping which may be the reason why our fishing industry is on its knees.

All of these accommodations place the Government in a strong position to demand a better deal and further, insist that the natural gas be free to Guyana. The Wales Gas-to-Shore project will end up like previous PPP mega projects – a white elephant funded by the hard-working people of Guyana with little or no return if changes are not made soon.

Your faithfully, David Patterson

Is Lincoln Lewis anti-union?

DEAR EDITOR, The GAWU believes it must offer a response to some elements of Mr. Lincoln Lewis’ letter appearing in the February 18, 2022, edition of the Stabroek News. At the outset we must point out that we cannot speak for the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board (TURCB) and will not address issues in that regard.

However, having digested Mr. Lewis’ narrative filled with his usual derisive and abrasive scorn, it is hard not to conclude, from all appearances, that the long-standing unionist has taken on an anti-

union stance. We ask how else can one rationalise the denunciation of a genuine workers’ organisation drawing attention to the hardships faced, and disrespect meted out to workers of our country? The GAWU is simply disheartened to see the low level Mr. Lewis has descended to as he seeks to advance his divisive narrative that does not in any way help the workers of our country. It is for us, a reckless attempt by someone who has announced themselves to be steeped in the principles of trade unionism and the struggles of the working-

class. The GAWU, nonetheless, is unbothered by the squeaks emanating from the erstwhile gentleman. Foremost our Union’s allegiance has always remained with the workers of Guyana. This is a historical fact. We solemnly believe that workers’ rights must be respected and upheld.

We do so without any fear and no amount of crassness will deter us from our noble objective. Our Union, though disheartened, would urge Lincoln to join us and in his own way contribute rather than obstruct the advancement of workers’ rights. We believe our working-class deserves

no less and we are confident that our efforts will bring dignity and decency to the workers of our country. Unlike Lincoln, we do not categorize unions and workers in binary terms. There is no time to place issues in silos but rather seek the general advancement of the working-class.

The GAWU will continue to play an active role. At this time, we are focused on our tasks of representing workers and advancing their lot and can least be deterred by hollow accusations.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine President, GAWU

Why I stopped reading Freddie Kissoon DEAR EDITOR, The motivating factors of the spate of recent columns

by Mr. Kissoon are reasonably discernible and reveal some prejudices, which ironically seem to perpetuate the politically constructed and facilitated notion that Guyana is a racially and politically divisive country. For me, it has become painfully obvious that Mr. Kissoon is an opportunist, hanging the topics of his columns where the crumbs fall. Irrespective of whose soup and crumbs he wishes to consume, Mr. Kissoon’s columns of late are a far cry from the once scholarly, unbiased, critical and thought-provoking pieces of years gone by. This reminds me of a famous quote about self-preservation, “People always choose self-preservation over the greater good, most of the time, with the belief that self-

preservation is the greater good”.

Up until 2017, I was fond of the writings of Freddie Kissoon, largely because they were controversial and oftentimes delving into his experiences and perceptions of the history of political thought and practice in Guyana. What also drew me to his writings was the sympathy and public support he solicited from his friends and strangers for a wrong committed upon them, mostly by the Guyana Police Force or representatives of the Guyana government.

Readers of Mr. Kissoon know of his self-identification as a scholar of Guyanese and Caribbean History, Guyanese politics and philosophy, namely phenomenology.

When challenged to demonstrate his claim to merit, Mr. Kissoon would often reply

voluminously about his academic writings, his role in the political struggle against the oppressive phase of the PNC and Burnham term in government and even his struggle against the oppressive phases of the Bharat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar-led PPP governments.

I noticed a few years after the election of the APNUAFC Coalition, to form the new Guyana government, Mr. Kissoon, perhaps due to growing disillusionment with the Coalition, penned a series of columns critical of President Granger and the Coalition. He criticised almost every aspect of President Granger’s tenure and overall leadership, even the Government’s measures at the time to strengthen Presidential security. I wonder what Mr. Kissoon thinks now about the luxury-styled ve-

hicles Guyanese and swarms of police and military personnel often seen as part of the security detail of the President and Vice-President. I wonder what his thoughts are about the massive debt future generations of Guyanese will inherit due to the higher cost of borrowing development finance for several large-scale “investments” and projects that have been given the green light. I also wonder what he thinks about the risks and usefulness of the government’s efforts to establish a “border patrol unit.”

In short, I raise these questions to highlight the fact that Mr. Kissoon has seemingly stopped penning columns that are objective and critical of the sitting government. His focus has been on the political opposition, race relations, the oppressive (Continued on page 6)

Saturday February 19, 2022

Harry Narine Nawbatt should use the media to heal our wounds and not add salt DEAR EDITOR, I was extremely upset after reading a letter titled, ‘A reminder of a bit of history,” written by Harry Narine Nawbatt, Kaieteur News, February 17, 2022.

His letter is a disastrous and dangerous recollection of our history.

Typical of the propaganda gurus, he notes that PNC supporters and by extension, Afro Guyanese destroyed stores owned by Indians.

Absolute nonsense.

In 1962, when the businesses were burnt, the majority were not, I repeat were not, owned by Indians.

Is he aware of the rape and arson committed at the home of the Ishamels family

at Tain Settlement on the Corentyne. Investigations confirmed that this murder/ rape/arson was perpetrated

by Indo Guyanese.

An investigation pointed an accusing finger to an Indo Guyanese, known as “Paddy man”. To the Sun Chapman tragedy, which took the lives of over forty odd Guyanese of one ethnic group was travelling in a launch owned by an Afro Guyanese, named Norman Yacoob Chapman, at Hurudaia, Demerara River.

Permanent Secretary, Arthur Abraham and seven of his children perished in an explosion and fire, set to their homes in Hadfield Street. The Abrahams were basically of European stock. Young

Godfrey Texeira was killed in an Estate School Bus by trained terrorist.

Teixeira was of Portuguese stock, and the Afro Guyanese young men who were slaughtered also countless non-Indians who perished during our several communal conflicts.

Today, the likes of Harry Narine Nawbatt should do the proper thing of using the media to heal our wounds and not to put salt on our wounds, and worst of all avoid this nonsense of painting this picture that only Indians were victims of strife and stupidity.

Let us heal, not hurt.

Regards Eric Moseley, MS

The situation at this school needs an intervention DEAR EDITOR, Kindly allow me a little space in your newspaper to highlight the plight of parents at New Market Primary School in Region Six under the present headteacher.

An incident occurred on Wednesday where the parent of a Grade Six student was present in school in the vicinity of the testing area during the NGSA Mock Examination.

This would not have been an issue if the child was not in contact with the parent during this time.

This happened for the entire day.

The headteacher refused entry to certain par-

ents and in some instances even asked the parents to leave the compound.

Certain Parents are not allowed to be in the compound during the lunch breaks The Grade Six class has an online chat capturing an exchange of words where the parent in question was abusive and disrespectful.

The headteacher proceeded to remove parents from the group who responded to the abu-

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Kaieteur News

sive parent.

Calls to the Department of Education went unanswered.

Sir, this headteacher is rude and abusive to parents; always siding with those who can do favours for her.

Something needs to be done about this.

It is unfair that the office is being abused simply for one person’s selfishness.

Yours sincerely, Trevor Raghubir

Jagdeo be cautious with progress on the new harbour bridge DEAR EDITOR, There are lots of negative comments on the delay of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge project.

I must admit that the VP was advised to be cautious on progress for the following reasons: 1) we may need to re-examine sedimentation since the Demerara River is a major River for export and import; 2) land use planning must be

done which would lead to possible relocation of the bridge because we may need to connect by road/railway, the Suriname bridge, the Demerara Bridge, and a bridge to Supenaam.

This road will be access for large scale farming and canning etc.; 3) the government is yet to know where to locate industries, housing, farming, drainage, new city etc.; 4) to consider a

roll-on-roll-off ferry from Stabroek Market to Vreed en Hoop in the interim; 5) the population will be more than double in the next five years; The government is way behind in preparing for the economic oil boom, and is not equipped with the 4m’s (man, money, material, machines.)

Sincerely Joe Persaud

No Water Subsidy for Pensioners DEAR SIR I am a pensioner and was benefitting from the water subsidy over the past few years.

However, on my water bills, from at least December last year, I have noticed that there was no deduction as previously.

On querying this matter with the GWI office at Peter’s Hall, E.B.D., I was told that

the Government hadn’t given them any subsidy and so the full charge would be made.

In my view, this is most unconscionable given the increased cost of nearly every item. How will pensioners survive?

Yours sincerely Suffering Pensioner

Colours of the Golden Arrowhead were upside down DEAR EDITOR Last evening, I listened and observed keenly on TV Channel 11 the feature address of His Excellency, President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali at the opening of the International Energy Conference at the Marriott Hotel.

I could not believe my eyes; what I saw, but the cameras do not lie.

In the background, the

colours of our flag, the Golden Arrowhead were displayed.

Guess what? I discovered to my chagrin that the colours were upside-down.

I wondered.

Are we displaying to the international community that in our beloved Guyana, things are generally upside-down.

I again hasten to make a clarion call that we must show great respect for our

symbols of Nationhood: The National Flag - the G o l d e n A r r o w h ead, the National Pledge, the National Anthem and the Coat of Arms.

May God bless the Cooperative Republic Of Guyana.

Yours respectfully Clinton Conway Assistant Commissioner of Police (Retired)

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There are very few women in leadership positions who would allow anyone to speak for them DEAR EDITOR: Guyana, I believe, is keeping apace with the rest of the world in supporting women in leadership positions in every field whether it be political, legislative, business, cultural, religious, education or the social services. In fact, we have admirable women doing excellent work in all these areas and, each year, many girls are the top performers in our schools.

I was, therefore, both dismayed and very surprised to find a letter published in every newspaper penned by the husband of a woman – a strong, articulate, educated woman – who is speaking out in her defence. (Letters February 18, 2022) The husband

is Mr. Kit Nascimento and he states in his published letter: “My wife responded ….”; “My wife, however, disagreed ….”; “She argued ….”; “…responded to my wife’s letter ….”, etc. His wife, Ms Gem MadhooNascimento, is a well-known personality in the field of theatre and has earned her place in Guyana’s cultural canon through her talent, dedication, and hard work. She is surely an example for our women, especially our younger women, to emulate and follow.

But what is the message she is sending? That a woman has to have a man/husband to defend, protect, and speak on her behalf even when she

is knowledgeable about the respective topic and can hold her own with anyone?

The engagement of the letters was particular to the cultural prejudice against the Indian Guyanese community and the lack of Indian cultural centres.

Ms. MadhooNascimento’s views are important to the discussion.

Unfortunately, we do not now know what is her full position on this issue. By handing over her response to her husband, she appears to be conceding that the lack of just such cultural institutions does undermine the voice, presence and confidence of Indian Guyanese and Indian Guyanese women in particular, and continues to promote

the notion that it is the Other who has the education, confidence and influence to speak for us.

Until more recent years, this was the status quo, with Other voices feeling they had the right and the cultural superiority to speak on our be-

half. That, however, is not the case today and there are very few women in leadership positions who would allow anyone to speak for them. They would find the very proposal of such a thing irritating, demeaning, and prejudicial in the extreme.

Sincerely Ryhaan Shah Editor ’s Note: Mrs. Nascimento has made her position known on the subject in these pages. Her husband’s views we assume, are aimed at lending support to those arguments.

Why I stopped reading Freddie...

From page 4 phase of the PNC regime’s tenure in government, philosophical questions and the so-called depravity of Guyanese culture and society. Most recently, Mr. Eric Phillips had cause to correct Freddie Kissoon about a set of false information on Timbuktu which Mr. Kissoon used his column to peddle.

I mean; why?

You would think that with his scholarly background and the abundance of research material available in today’s world, that Mr. Kissoon would do his due diligence

before penning ignorant and false information.

Many journalists, entertainers, print, electronic and digital news media outlets and thought leaders know that controversy sells.

Mr. Kissoon is no stranger to controversy and no stranger to many facets

about Guyanese politics that most Guyanese are unaware of or never experienced.

I do hope to see more well researched, scholarly and unbiased columns from someone I once regarded as a Guyanese hero.

Regards C. Singh

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Kaieteur News

Are we really prepared to normalise criminality in our homeland?

When blatant thievery becomes part of a society, there is no place left for it to go but down.

We believe that there are more Guyanese, other than the few already speaking up, who do not wish to see our country deteriorate further.

Come on Guyanese, a Guyana straddled with enormous debt due to wicked acts of some of our leaders, with citizens afraid to walk the streets because of 'choke and rob bandits', cannot be the legacy that we desire to leave for future generations.

Together, we must stand and fight for a better Guyana.

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Annual Calypso, Chutney, Soca Monarch competitions return with first live audience this weekend

A

s Guyana slowly returns to normalcy in wake of there being no COVID-19 curfew, the annual calypso, chutney and soca monarch competitions are making their return in front of a live audience this weekend.

The Ministry of Culture, Yo u t h a n d S p o r t , i n partnership with Hits and Jams Entertainment and Team MMR, will execute these events at the National Stadium from February 18 to 20.

The events kicked off yesterday with the Banks junior and senior calypso competition featuring locals such as Lady Joneka, Omaiah Hall, Kyra, O.K.C, Koh, Vinel, The Queen, JuneAnn Hutson, Ezekiel

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

Bacchus and Torana Caesar, RG, Jamal Stuart, Lil Canary, Akeem Alexander, Sniper, Young Bill Rogers, Mark Ferdinand, B52, EGO, Mighty Believer, Sweet Kendingo and Granny Ivy. This event starts at 6PM and patrons will be able to access the venue for free.

The second night will feature the junior and senior soca monarch and cooler fete with performances from Itz Mel Mel, Vinel, Prodigy, Original Lyrics, O.K.C, Shatta Youth, Theodora Kyra, Keona Batson, Torana Caesar, Omaiah Hall, B52, Vanilla, Vintage, Karrizma, Rubber Waist, Nekeita, Saddick, Nesta, Jada, Asiah, Granny Ivy, Gucci Boss, Samuel Medas and Brandon Harding. Patrons can take their coolers at 8PM and

Contractor bids $27M above engineer's estimate to build Onderneeming access road (Continued from yesterday’s edition) Ministry of Human Services and Social Security Weeding and Cleaning of all locations within the ministry.

Ministry of Home Affairs Procurement of janitorial and cleaning supplies for the Guyana Prison Service.

support their favourite local artiste. General tickets cost $2000 and Stage front tickets cost $10,000 which can be bought at the HJ Box office located at 206 Lance Gibbs Street.

Sunday night features the chutney monarch and duck curry fest which begins at 6pm. This event features Tony Cuttz, Chavez, Vanita Willie, Young Bill Rogers, Vicadi Singh, Bunty Singh and Sonia Singh. Tickets cost $1500 and can be purchased at Full Range Record bar located at Robb and King Streets and the HJ Box Office.In order to purchase a ticket or enter the venue, patrons must provide their vaccination and ID cards.All COVID-19 protocols will be enforced at these events.

Prequalification of services.

Saturday February 19, 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Guyana will become the eyesore of the Caribbean British Guiana’s markets were long an attraction for visitors to the colony. They were generally neat, organised and clean and were a pleasure in which to shop and pick up bargains. Our markets – whether rural or urban – are no longer a sight for sore eyes. Instead, they have become eyesores. And this is on account of one general problem. The city’s markets, like the pavements and the roadsides have been overrun by vendors. The problem has gotten out of hand and it is now a case of a free-for-all. Vending is now quite indiscriminate. But it is not too late to try to bring order where there is disorder.

The PPP/C did try to resolve the problem in 2001, more than 20 years ago. The Bharrat Jagdeo government compulsorily acquired a large piece of land on Water Street, belonging to a timber magnate.

The compensation price was disputed by the owners and the matter ended in Court which set the compensation at G$260M, quite a princely sum at that time.

That sum, along with what was spent to develop the site to make it suitable for vending, could have made millionaires of each of the vendors accommodated there in 2003.

But that offer of a cash grant to remove from off the streets,

pavements and verges was never made to the vendors even though it made practical sense to pay vendors to remove from the pavements rather than create a site for them. Later, when the City Council decided to clean up the ‘tent city’ which had developed as a result of street and pavement vending on Regent Street, there were some vendors who sang their usual sad story about being single parents and having nowhere else to make a living. Jagdeo again came to their rescue – or so he thought – by asphalting a section of the Merriman Mall, between Light and Cummings Streets, to accommodate these complaining vendors.

Most of them never went there. They were not interested in a site for vending.

They wanted to remain on the pavement on Regent Street.

Only a few barbers set up shop at the location. Well not anymore. Permanent structures are now being erected along that green stretch and it will join the ranks of eyesores in the country. It is an utter disgrace that City Hall is now allowing permanent structures to be constructed at that location. It further destroys that part of the city.

When the Mon Repos Market was first erected, the vendors spilled out onto the pub-

lic road, bringing traffic to a crawl. The same situation exists at other markets around the country. The Mon Repos Market is now a permanent eyesore. And what should have been parking areas north of the market is now occupied by vendors. The market should not be even situated at that location. That market needs to be removed from its present location and a new, larger market constructed away from the public road. Markets should not be built alongside the country’s main public roads.

But do not tell that to the PPP/ C government. They will continue with this ugly situation.

They have agreed to the rehabilitation of the market rather than dismantling it and building a larger market to accommodate all the vendors.

This week there were hundreds of foreign visitors in the country for the International Energy Conference. And special arrangements had to be put in place to allow them to shop in close proximity to the conference centre. They were not encouraged to go shopping on Regent Street no doubt because of the embarrassment of ‘Pallet City’ caused by the pavement and street vending along that road. Nor were they encouraged to visit the Stabroek Market where they are more

Dem boys seh...

Irfaan setting de pace!

Dem boys know how it does feel to get out class.

Dat is wah used to happen to de West Indies team, and it look like it still happening.

Dem had a chance yesterday and come within a whisker of victory.

But in the end, dem get outclass.

Is de same thing happening to de APNU. Dem watching wah going on in de guvament.

De pace of development gat dem stunned. Is project after project executing, and investment after investment pouring in de country.

And de people seeing how things moving faster dan Speedy Gonzalez.

Nuff people coming fuh do business in Guyana.

And when nuff people land down in de town, it does be good fuh business. Money does circulate and de economy does boom.

It gat fuh hurt de Coalition dat dem had five years and dem hardly achieve in dem five years wah de present guvament done do in two years.

Both ah dem guvaments, de APNU+AFC and de PPP/ C, had international oil con-

ferences.

But which one you think was bigger and better? Dat show how much more getting done.

Is a good lesson fuh de Opposition. If ever dem get another chance fuh go back in deh, dem gat fuh start delivering.

Dem bin promise jobs fuh people and when dem get in, dem seh how people gat to create dem own jobs.

Is den people begin to think twice bout de Coalition.

Yuh gat to deliver to de people.

Talk half. Leff half.

likely to be mugged and robbed than secure a bargain.

The walkway being constructed on Lamaha Street is for tourists and to keep them on that side of town. It could not be completed in time for the Conference. Nor is the Seawall Rehabilitation works complete. Both of these enhancement projects will get a rude awakening when near completed: the vendors will turn them into eyesores.

Is this the Guyana that President Irfaan Ali and the Mayor of Georgetown wish to

showcase to the rest of the world? How can a country which is said to be the future Dubai, have its main commercial district converted into a ‘Pallet City’? How can the City Council allow permanent structures on the section of the Merriman’s Mall between Light and Cummings Streets?

Guyana’s markets can once again become the prime attractions they were under colonial rule. But the only way to do this is to stop illegal vending. But instead of doing this, it appears as if more

and more vending is being condoned. If this trend continues, Guyana will become the eyesore of the Caribbean.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Saturday February 19, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Here comes Winston Jordan again. Not again, man I will never resist my obligation of replying to my critics because when you do, people's eyes are opened.

There are countless people in and out of this country who do not know of countless things those in the news have done. If you do not reply when things are written about you, then your critics are left protected.

In this column, I will start with former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan.

Here is what I wrote about Jordan in the column, “Thank you, Winston Jordan but I am

not grateful?” of Monday, November 29, 2021: “Here is something about me that Winston Jordan, as Finance Minister, didn't know. A few years ago because of a critical staff shortage in the h a rd n e w s s e c t i o n o f Kaieteur News, I did a short stint as editor of the letter pages. I carried an apology a few times when Minister Jordan would demand it for the most innocuous criticism of him even inconsequential statements way back when he served in the budget department under the PPP government. I will never forget one particular missive in which the writer merely opined that Mr. Jordan was once supportive of the PPP government when he was a high official in the Ministry.

Normally, these are things Cabinet ministers just ignore. But Jordan demanded an apology. I carried it. As a political analyst in the newspapers for

the past 33 years, Mr. Jordan remains one of the persons I am afraid to write about because he has a propensity to sue.”

I will continue to write about public figures without malice. Threats of libel will not deter me and actual libel trials will not deter me. You become a willing victim of bullying if you decide that because you are afraid of being sued, you will never comment on the action of a particular public figure.

Then, you make that person a sacred cow in your journalistic career.

On Thursay in this newspaper, Mr. Jordan wrote in response to one of my columns that he had no arrangement with B. K. Tiwarie. And he reserves his right to seek redress. I don't know which column Jordan is referring to because I know of no column I wrote that attribute any wrong-doing to Jordan. If Jordan doesn't

know what libelous words mean, I do.

I wrote that Jordan made an arrangement with Tiwarie to purchase state property.

That is all I wrote. Since Mr. Jordan has been charged, there are defenders of Mr. Jordan who noted that he acted properly. Mr. Roysdale Forde in court papers defending Mr. Jordan cited the law under which Mr. Jordan is entitled to act in the transfer of State assets. Forde cited the Public Corporations Act, which gives the minister authority to transfer state property to any other party.

Each day in most countries, the Finance Minister is involved in transactions to which he/she puts his/her signature. The question is whether in signing, he/she acted illegally.

I never made any comment on the nature of the action of Mr. Jordan that resulted in Mr. Tiwarie receiving an asset.

There are no words of mine, in reference to what Mr. Jordan has been charged with, that say Mr. Jordan acted improperly. Whatever Mr. Jordan signed that

resulted in an asset transfer to Mr. Tiwarie was not commented upon by me. It would be useful if Mr. Jordan can do two things – show where I defended the Frederick Kissoon State's charges J ordan of anything against him and secondly, where I acknowledged that illegal when the matter is before the courts and I did he committed an illegal act.

Here is the headline of state that.

F i n a l l y, Vi n c e n t Kaieteur News for December 31, 2021, “Ceres backs Alexander, in response to one indictment against Jordan” of my articles, denied that he with the following words: ever commented on the “ P ro m i n e n t G u y a n e s e conduct of Clairmont Mingo, Geotechnical Engineer, the Returning Officer for Charles Ceres said the police Region 4 in the March 2020 are correct in charging election. This is an attempt to former Finance Minister shape words to confuse Winston Jordan for the role p e o p l e . A l e x a n d e r i n he played in the “gifting of GECOM meetings and in the valuable state asset on the newspapers accepted the Demerara River waterfront declaration of results of Thursday, March 5 that to BK International.”

I have seen nothing in the c o n t a i n e d i n a c c u r a t e press from Mr. Jordan numbers attributed to Mingo. threatening libel against Mr. That is not only commenting Ceres. Mr. Jordan has been on Mingo's conduct but charged by the State for accepting it.

(The views expressed in illegal transactions. A commentator can write about this article are those of the that. Accusing the defendant a u t h o r a n d d o n o t of guilt is another matter. But necessarily reflect the how can one accuse Mr. opinions of this newspaper.)

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Saturday February 19, 2022

Renewable energy projects must be adaptable to impacts of climate change - Caribbean expert As Guyana prepares to modernise its electricity provision services, by shifting its dependence on fossil fuels and moving towards cleaner energy, utilising its powerful waterfalls, solar and even wind resources available, the country has been warned to ensure that its future projects are adaptable to climate change, as if this key aspect is not taken into consideration, it could amount to significant losses for the country.

This is according to Head of Technical Programmes at the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE), Dr. Devon Gardner who holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Chemical Physics with specialisation on numerical analysis from the University of the West Indies.

Dr. Gardner gave his advice to Guyana on day three of the International Energy Conference at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown.

In his presentation, he

e x p l a i n e d , “ We h a v e electricity systems that are based on centralised grids (and) centralised generation plants. In many instances, there is a limited diversification in the fuels that are produced in our electricity. We see what happens sometimes when we have disruptions to those power plants. If it is that, we have a power supply issue; it could bring our whole grid down. Same with liquid fuels for cars, we have motor vehicle systems that are based on liquid fuels and there is very limited diversity in the structure of our energy systems and so it means that there is very little that is required for our systems to be brought down.”

Given that these systems continue to remain volatile, he said that it is very important for the new alternatives to be designed in such a way that limits significant losses. But while the need to reconfigure these systems also remain a priority, Dr. Gardner pointed out that in integrating

renewable energy, it is critical for the systems to be built in a manner more adaptable to climate change.

According to the specialist, “Many of the systems that we have are naturally going to be ones that are impacted by many external shocks. As we shift towards renewable, there are some things that we must be mindful of. Renewables are probably the most climate sensitive resource options we have so it's not simply just replacing a diesel plant with a solar plant or a wind plant. It's about reconfiguration, a holistic reconfiguration because if we do not look at a holistic reconfiguration, we might end up putting a solar system then we have solar systems that are impacted in some countries by hurricanes and what we do is replace one vulnerability for another.”

In further presenting his view on the matter, he made reference to the fact that Ve n e z u e l a , G u y a n a ' s neighbour, was impacted by drastic effects of climate change since their power

Head of Technical Programmes at the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, Dr. Devon Gardner

supply was dependent on power generated by hydro.

“We have seen what happened in Venezuela years ago…when because of the 100 percent dependence of Venezuela on hydropower, when there was drought, we

saw what the drought did to their electricity systems,” he said.

To this end, the Head of the Renewable Energy Centre said that while clean diversification is important, it is always recommended

that flexible options be considered so as to avoid a shutdown of power supply in countries. A flexible option would include a mixture of renewable energy options, to avoid total dependency on a (Continued on page 16)

Cutting edge technologies being incorporated in delivery of TVET subjects

Deputy Chief Education Officer (Tech), Dr. Ritesh Tularam along with Learning Corp Chief Operating Officer, Lucia MacIsaac, Learning Corp Vice President, Donnie MacIssac, and staff of the New Amsterdam Technical Institute.

The New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI) and the Linden Technical Institute (LTI) are the first to benefit from Augmented Arc We l d i n g R e a l i t y a n d electrical training.

The pilot programme, according to a Ministry of Education release, is part of a partnership between the Ministry of Education's Council for Technical and Vo c a t i o n a l E d u c a t i o n Training (CTVET), Learning Corp and ExxonMobil.

A Memorandum of Understanding between the organisations was signed to provide basic industrial safety training for lecturers, instructors and trainees in Level One occupational areas.

At the end of the programme, trainees will be CVQ Level One qualified

The certificates received and will receive a wallet card that will be internationally recognised.

Learning Corp Chief Operating Officer, Lucia MacIsaac noted that the future demand for qualified persons trained in electrical and welding will be high.

As such, this programme is important as it is the first step to ensuring Guyanese are trained to take advantage

of the opportunities.

On Thursday, three lecturers from the New A m s t e r d a m Te c h n i c a l Institute were presented with certificates for the training they received in Augmented Arc Welding Reality.

Augmented welding reality technology allows the trainee to experience the (Continued on page 16)

Kaieteur News

Saturday February 19, 2022

PAGE 13

Repsol secures rig for new oil well in Kanuku Block

The Noble Regina Allen has been contracted to spud an oil well for Repsol in the Kanuku Block in May.

- as ExxonMobil extends contract terms for future projects including Yellowtail The Noble Corporation, which has seen much success in Guyana with its work for Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), will be aiming for a repeat with a new offshore venture in the country's Exclusive Economic Zone, spudding a well for Repsol in the Kanuku Block.

Noble Corporation made the disclosure on Friday last when it provided a fleet status report, and announced that it had raked in a significant number of drilling deals.

These include one for Repsol for the Noble Regina Allen for a one-well deal in the fourth quarter of 2021 with that rig starting work offshore Guyana in May 2022.Additionally, Noble Corp. said in its report that three of its jack-up rigs and three drill ships won either

new deals or extensions. The offshore driller also won a conditional award under the Commercial Enabling Agreement (CEA) with ExxonMobil for four rigs in Guyana.The three jack-ups in question are the Noble Regina Allen, Noble Tom Prosser, and the Noble Lloyd Noble.

As it relates to the Exxon projects, Noble Corp said the CEA includes approximately 7.4 years of additional contract term and reallocates all existing terms evenly across the four rigs in Guyana. The rigs in question are Noble Tom Madden, Noble Sam Croft, Noble Bob Douglas, Noble Don Taylor.

“It must be said that the additional contract term is subject to government approval and final project sanction for the Yellowtail development project. Once finalised, the conditional

award will extend the contracted term into the fourth quarter of 2025.”

Importantly, it was noted that at the end of December 2021, the company's estimated revenue backlog totalled approximately $1.2 billion, excluding the CEA conditional award.

The Company noted too that there is already a trend developing with increases in rig day rates.

In its fleet status report, Borr Drilling CEO, Patrick Schorn, said that it was becoming increasingly evident that the supply of rigs ready to go to work within six months was far less than the market p r e v i o u s l y anticipated.“Therefore, [Borr maintains] the view that day rates will increase based on the current tender activity and available jackup rig supply,” Schorn

AFC wants NRF Act amended because of “dangerous flaws”

T

he almost twomonth old law that governs the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) will be soon amended hopefully to adjust what has been described as “dangerous flaws” in the Act, especially when it c o m e s t o t h e misappropriation of funds and penalties for such abuse.

This is according to the Party's Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan, during a press conference hosted this week.

Ramjattan told reporters, in response to a question posed by Kaieteur News that the amendments will seek to ensure better transparency and greater efficiency.

He explained that his party as well and its partners in the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) have already stated, “That the previous 2019 Act was of tremendously greater effectiveness in relation to transparency and all of that and to the extent then that we will have to formulate amendments to the Act to ensure that that which was covered previously is now

Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan covered. We are going to do so.”

The NRF Act of 2021, which was hurriedly approved in the National Assembly on December 29, fails to pinpoint penalties for the misappropriation of funds but instead includes several penalties for an official who discloses confidential information or provides misleading data about the nation's oil money.

Under Part VIII of the legislation which deals with penalties and offences, a

person who gives information that is materially false or misleading or knowingly includes or permits to be included, in any report or document, information that is materially false or misleading, commits an offence and is liable on conviction or indictment to a fine of $10M and to imprisonment for five years.

A person who fails to comply with any obligation to publish information provided for in this Act, or leads someone else to fail to comply with or hinders or leads someone else to hinder the compliance with the obligation, commits an offence and is liable to be fined $5M and 10 years in jail.

It goes on to state that a person who, directly or indirectly, hinders or leads someone else to hinder the exercise of powers by an external auditor commits an offence and can be fined $5M and be made to serve three years behind bars.

Furthermore, a person who (Continued on page 16)

added.As it relates to Repsol, its activity in Guyana is focused on the Kanuku Block some 150 kilometres offshore Guyana.

Repsol operates the Block with a 37.5 percent working interest, which is located in an area near existing oil and gas

discoveries.

Repsol initially signed a contract with the government of Guyana for the Kanuku Block in 2013.

PAGE 14

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

PM Phillips tells oil conference…

Green energy transition will require specialised training to succeed - says upgraded educational institutions necessary to meet new demands With Guyana committed to a transition towards the use of more renewable energy sources, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and a digital transformation will be needed to support that clean energy transition and as such, “we need to develop our human resources and the local capacity to drive this clean energy transition.”

This was the adumbration

by Minister with responsibility for Guyana's E n e r g y S e c t o r, P r i m e Minister Mark Phillips, when he delivered remarks this past week during the International Energy Conference and Expo 2022, held at the Marriott Hotel from February 15 to 18.

With the second day of the presentations and panel discussions focusing on clean energy transitions, both in the national and regional contexts, Prime Minister Phillips was adamant, “capacity building, training and public awareness have to be incorporated so that our

citizens can actively participate in opportunities for job creation and the development of small and medium-sized enterprises.”

He noted too that educational institutions “will have to be upgraded to cater to new demands as more citizens pursue additional certifications; women, youth, and vulnerable groups will be encouraged to actively participate in these opportunities.”

Recalling the United Nation's 26th Conference of Parties (COP-26) and reminded that 1.5 degrees Celsius path is within reach, but the achievement will depend on the extent to which the pledges are held.

“Developed and developing countries cannot afford to work in solitude to address their energy challenges and scale-up measures; we need to work together to conquer the complexities and uncertainties in climate financing, technical

capacities, policies and regulatory frameworks to drive the energy transition.”

With this in mind, he reassured delegates that Government remains committed towards achieving a low carbon economy, and advancing the transition to clean energy development will remain at the forefront of our national priority.

The Prime Minister had prefaced his arguments by pointing out that “With more than 760 million people in the world experiencing a lack of access to electricity, clean energy solutions present a promising prospect for providing improved services to vulnerable groups in our society and increased opportunities for enhanced lives and livelihoods.”

Acknowledging that the world's energy sector is still significantly influenced by fossil fuels, PM Phillips observed that “Globally, some 73 percent of humangenerated greenhouse gas

emissions result from the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, transportation and heat.”

As such, “Governments must now work overtime to find real solutions by 2030.”

According to Prime Minister Phillips, “Even as we aim towards these goals amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we can certainly acknowledge that this global complication has certainly exposed the weaknesses within every sector, and energy is no exception.”

With this in mind, he posited that “now, more than ever, the achievement of A ff o r d a b l e a n d C l e a n E n e r g y, S u s t a i n a b l e Development Goal number seven, will significantly improve these conditions, particularly for the millions of people who are currently considered to be energy poor.” He was adamant however, that embarking on solutions like energy transition requires strategic and systemic changes at a

Minister with responsibility for Guyana's Energy Sector, Prime Minister - Mark Phillips national, regional and international level and that “the changes involved will undoubtedly affect not only our people, but also our sectors and regions.”

He noted that currently, the Caribbean is one of the most energy importdependent regions of the world and at the same time, the price for electricity in the region also ranks among the highest in the world.

To this end, he posited, “these costs can considerably affect the region's economic and social development,

particularly among vulnerable populations.”

According to Prime Minister Phillips, clean energy and energy efficiency continue to play an essential part in Guyana's energy transformation and “the Government of Guyana remains committed to providing affordable, stable, and reliable energy to benefit all, while reducing the country's dependence on imported fossil fuels for electricity generation.”

With this in mind, he said (Continued on page 16)

Highest bidder wins contract to rehabilitate Mazaruni Prisons Out of the seven contractors who had bid to execute construction works at the Mazaruni Prisons, a project being undertaken by the Ministry of Home Affairs, it was Nabi Construction Inc., which placed the highest bid, and was awarded the contract in December last.

This is according to information provided on the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) website, which states that the company will be doing construction works at the facility to the tune of $ 1,119,652,421, a price that is almost double the engineer's estimated cost.

When tenders opened for the project in July last year, the Ministry engineer's had estimated the project to be some $637,124,627. Four out of the seven firms had bid less than the engineer's estimate to do the job.

Construction works at the Mazaruni Prisons have been ongoing for some time. In fact, under the previous government, contracts were signed for an expansion project at the facility.

The need for the expansion of the prison was as a result of the fire which destroyed the Camp Street facility back in 2017 and to facilitate the overcrowding at other penitentiaries across the country.

Kaieteur News had reported that under the APNU+AFC regime, a contract was given to Kee-Chanona Limited of Trinidad and Tobago in joint venture with Guyanese firm, Nabi Construction Inc., at a cost of $4 billion for the first phase of the expansion project.That contract catered for the construction of a U-shaped two-storey building which was being erected to house

cells, offices and a courtyard for the prisoners.In 2019, Project Manager at the time, Iain Peebles told this publication that the first phase was 40 percent completed and that the project was expected to be completed in October that year. He had noted too that the second phase of the expansion of the facility would see the construction of a square building which would house offices, training centres and accommodation for the prisoners.

Following the change of government the following year, the PPP/C administration stated in its 2021 budget that the construction of the Mazaruni Prisons (first building) which would accommodate 220 high profile inmates would be completed within the first quarter of 2021.Giving an update on the works at the Prisons, Senior Minister with the responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during the reading of Budget 2022, stated that during 2021 over $2 billion was expended mainly to complete the first block of the Mazuruni Prisons and to commence construction of three prison blocks at Lusignan.

In 2021, a $1.2 billion contract was signed for the construction of the Lusignan facility.Further, he stated that this year, another $2.3 billion is budgeted towards enhancing prison infrastructure.

He noted that the money will facilitate works on the Lusignan Prison which would be transformed into a modern facility to house both male and female prisoners, a vocational school, an infirmary annex, prison headquarters and to commence the work for the second prison block at the Mazaruni Prisons.

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

PAGE 16 WANTED

1 matured bus driver preferably from E.B.D.Tel:698-6205.

FOR RENT

CAR RENTAL Aidan's Car Rental.Tel:6281183.

Couple to work on private property, Essequibo river.

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VACANCY Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles,age 23-50 car/van licence.

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TO LET

SERVICES

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

Hiring Content Writers: $100,000 monthly. MondayThursday,work from home.

Email your resume to andrewp @consultpr.net.

Female ages 25-40 to take care of elderly male in Trinidad, accomodations provided.

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Office Assistant, Cashier, Counter staff, Cooks, Baker, Cleaner,Store person.Must have experience & vaccinated,226-9000,225-6255.

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LEGAL NOTICE 2021-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-32 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND

LEGAL NOTICE MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION PETITION NO. FD-32 BETWEEN:STEPHANIE ROYLINDA SAMPSON nee FRANK Petitioner -and-MASIMBA MAINDELA ORETTE SAMPSON Respondent TO: MASIMBA MAINDELA ORETTE SAMPSON Formerly of Mazaruni Prison Com pond TAKE NOTICE that on the 11th day of January, 2022 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by STEPHANIE ROYLINDA SAMPSON nee FRANK the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court inGeorgetown,Demerara.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 24 day of March, 2022, the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News. a newspaper published and circulated in Guyana.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or I attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service. Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirty-five) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice.

TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Tuesday the24 day of_arch,2022at1:15pm_before the Honourable Madam Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln via Zoom Meeting ID: 817 2463 7445 and Password: Courtl2. IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.

The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara].

The office is open to the public between 8:00am and

AFC wants NRF Act amended...

From page 11 discloses official information in contravention of the provisions of the Act commits an offence and can be fined $5M and sent to jail for three years.

The NRF Act has been strongly criticised by not only the political opposition, but

also members of civil society, since the legislation was passed in less than two weeks after it was first tabled.

Not only that but it was also argued that the critical piece of legislation was hurriedly passed without consultations.

Cutting edge technologies being...

From page 12 same touch, feel precision and accuracy as in physical welding. Senior Lecturer in the Engineering Department at NATI, Mr. Eon Rich, said that the training will greatly benefit trainees.

A similar exercise was held at LTI on Friday where three lecturers received certifi-

cates for the training they received in Augmented Arc Welding Reality.

Deputy Chief Education Officer (Tech), Dr. Ritesh Tularam, was present at both exercises.

The institutions were each given the necessary equipment to conduct the training as well as textbooks.

Renewable energy projects must...

From page 12 specific source. “Looking at the whole picture, it's really about trying to look at adaptation, how we build our systems that they are adaptable to the impacts of climate change. Our solar systems must be built in such a way that if we lose them, we have means to replace the energy that they would have been producing,” Dr. Gardner explained.

Similarly, when it comes to hydropower, the specialist noted that these systems must be built while considering the hydrological cycles and the impact of climate on those hydrological cycles. He said, “we must understand

how sea level rise, how temperature change over the five and 10 years and 20 years projected periods of weather and climate cycles will affect these and how we must mix and match demand with the supply side as the impact of climate will affect both.”

Currently, Guyana is moving towards cleaner and renewable energy. For instance, the country will be pursuing its Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, with construction slated to commence in the latter part of this year. Monies have also been allocated in this year's Budget for solar power projects, while the Hope Wind Farm is also close to fruition.

Green energy transition will...

From page 14 government has since designed a dynamic path “for our country's future, a future where sustainable energy like solar PV and hydropower are harnessed to serve energy needs in innovative ways. It is also a future where people are placed at the centre of clean energy transitions and the concerns of individuals, businesses, and communities are adequately addressed.”

With Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 geared towards a massive expansion of renewable and clean energy across the country, Prime Minister Phillips said, “our GovernLEGAL NOTICE 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 9th day of February,2022.

ment will pursue a strategy of developing low-carbon energy resources like solar, hydro, wind, natural gas, and biomass, to meet the rapidly rising energy demand while keeping greenhouse gas emissions low. Under this strategy, we will advance an energy mix that will lead to more than 500 megawatts of newly installed capacity over the next five years.”

To this end, he said, the Government of Guyana is ready to engage and work in partnership with stakeholders in the sector to find solutions to our energy challenges and to create an enabling environment.

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Man remanded for breaking into car and stealing haversack Nicholas Choy, who is also implicated in a rape matter, has been remanded for simple larceny after he broke into a parked car and stole a haversack containing items valued at some $460,000.

Choy appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday where he was charged for simple larceny which is contrary to section 164 of the Criminal Law (offences)

Act Chapter 8:01 and was remanded to prison until April 4, 2022.

The court heard that on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 21:15 hours, the victim, Bhesham Persaud, secured his car leaving inside a haversack containing the following items: one timberland haversack valued $25,000, one Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra cellular phone valued $255,000, three surefire flashlights value 74,000, one

Maui Jim sunglasses valued $60,000, one ratchet kit set valued $36,000 and G$10,000 cash.

After parking his car, Persaud proceeded to a bar on Charlotte Street and about 21:55 hours, upon his return, he observed the back triangular glass broken and his haversack with the items missing.

The matter was subsequently reported to law enforcement and an investiga-

tion was launched during which CCTV footage was viewed and Choy, in the company of others, was seen breaking into the victim’s car and removing the items. He was later arrested and told of the allegation and cautioned. He was later charged. Choy, according to reports, has been implicated in a rape matter for which advice has been sought from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Saturday February 19, 2022

Gavin Todd appointed Operations and Engineering Director at Banks DIH Gavin Todd, a Peter d’Aguiar’s Scholarship Awaredee, has been appointed Operations and Engineering Director at Banks DIH, after serving the company for 28 years.

The announcement was made via a release the company disseminated yesterday.

It stated, “The Chairman and Board of Directors of Banks DIH Limited wish to advise our Shareholders and Members of the Public of the recent appointment to the Board of Directors of Banks DIH Limited, of Mr. Gavin Todd, as Operations and Engineering Director.” Todd, according to the release, is the holder of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Additionally, he is a recipient of several Post-Graduate and Technical qualifications including from the University of Western Ontario.

He has also served on the Boards of various

Banks DIH Operations and Engineering Director, Gavin Todd organisations both charitable and professional, including Rotary International, the Board of Directors of Guyana Water Inc. and the National Council of Guyana.

“The Chairman and Board Members hereby extend a warm and cordial welcome to Mr. Todd in his new capacity as Operations and Engineering Director and best wishes for a long and successful tenure,” the release added.

5 more COVID-19 deaths - 48 new infections recorded Another five individuals, who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus (COVID19) disease, have died over the past four days (February 15 to 18).

This was reported by the Ministry of Health on Friday which stated that the fatalities are that of an 87-year-old man from Region Four and four women – an 87-year-old from Region Six, a 72-year-old from Region Three, an 81-year-old and an 82-year-old from Region Four.

As a result of this, the

country’s COVID-19 death toll has moved to 1,208.

Meanwhile, in its COVID19 dashboard, the Ministry recorded 48 new infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 62,585.

The dashboard shows that 11 patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit, 77 individuals are in institutional isolation, 864 are in home isolation and 13 are in institutional quarantine.

To date, a total of 60,425 persons have recovered from the virus.

Saturday February 19, 2022

Kaieteur News

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The oil spill aftermath along Peru shores.

[Photo credit, Peru's Ministry of Environment]

More fines for company involved in disastrous oil spill in Peru S

panish Oil company, Repsol, which is involved in the disastrous oil spill that struck the coast of Peru, has been slapped with more fines by the Peruvian government.

Almost one month after the spill, the country is still grappling with the cleaning up of the aftermath of more than 12, 000 barrels of crude that contaminated its shores – a Peruvian official has recently announced that the company is not fulfilling its obligation.

However, the country continues to take actions against Repsol.

According to a recent press release from Peru's Ministry of Environment (MINAM), the Agency for Environmental Assessment and Control (OEFA) – an agency attached to the Ministry, has reported that Repsol has paid three coercive fines of a total amount of Sol$1,380,000 (US$362,285).

It was stated that the three coercive fines were for the failure to comply with three of the 14 measures ordered: identification of the areas affected by the spill, cleaning of the affected areas, and containment and recovery of hydrocarbons (crude).

According to the update from Peru's ministry, in light of the three breaches by the oil company, the OEFA has also initiated sanctioning administrative procedures, where the fines can be up to Sol$55,200,000 (US$ 14,808,852).

To this end, it was noted that, if the oil company continues to fail to comply with the 14 administrative measures issued by the OEFA, new coercive fines will be successively imposed

until compliance.

In addition, if responsibility for violations of environmental regulations is determined, fines of up to Sol$304,060,000 (US$81,572,097) is likely.

It was also stated that, “ t h e O E FA a s t h e environmental control authority, reaffirms its commitment to continue carrying out daily supervision to verify compliance with the 14 measures ordered from Repsol and imposing the respective sanctions for noncompliance with them.”

Kaieteur News recently reported that the Peruvian government has initiated the first periodic fine against the Spanish oil giant.

It was reported that Repsol has already received the first coercive fine, of Sol$460,000 (US$121,500) for the non-compliance of identifying the areas affected by the oil spill and in addition, a sanctioning

administrative procedure was initiated for the noncompliance where the fine can be up to Sol$18.4 million (US$ 4,835,742).

The oil spill occurred on January 15, 2022 at one of the La Pampilla refineries off the coast of Ventanilla in the region of Lima, Peru.

It was reported that the spill was caused by shock waves from an undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean.

At the time of the undersea eruption, Suezmax tanker, Mare Doricum, was offloading a shipment of Brazilian crude oil at one of La Pampilla refinery's offshore mooring buoys, and as such, a quantity of the cargo was released.

R e p s o l h a d underreported the quantity of crude that was spilled but later investigations by Peru's OEFA revealed that almost 12,000 barrels of oils was spilled – more than double the amount that was initially

reported by the company.

MINAM Minister Modesto Montoya had revealed, during a television programme, that Repsol is not fulfilling its obligation as it relates to the clean-up of the aftermath of the oil spill.

Montoya shared that a white foam, similar to that of detergents, formed as a result of the Repsol oil spill.

The Minister also shared that the foam is killing the wildlife that inhabits the Bay of Ancón and the National Reserve System of Guano Islands, Islets and Points.

He said, “There is white foam that is killing everything on the surface.”

The minister further explained that the contaminated substance makes young birds die of hypothermia.

He had specified that to date, only about 2,000 barrels of oily liquids have been recovered, from the more than 11,000 barrels o f c r u d e t h a t

contaminated their waters.

This publication had reported that following devastating oil spill, several Peruvian officials had called for the oil company to compensate for what they described as an 'ecological disaster' that has occurred in Lima in recent times.

The first action that was taken against the company is when Judge Romualdo Aguedo on Friday, January 28, 2022 granted the order to prevent the four executives from leaving the country.

Peruvian media reported that Judge Aguedo imposed an 18-month ban on the grounds of the potential risk that the officials might leave Peru.

Those that have been barred are refinery manager, Jaime Fernández-Cuesta Luca de Tena; terminal manager, Renzo Alejandro Tejada M a c k e n z i e ; environmental manager, Gisela Cecilia Posadas

Jhong, and production manager, José Gregorio Reyes Ruiz.

In taking additional steps, it was revealed by Peru's former Minister of the Environment, Rubén R a m i r e z , o n M o n d a y, January 31, 2022, that the government had taken the decision to suspend the company's hydrocarbon loading and unloading activities.

In other words, it meant that Repsol's operation in the country was halted until it can substantially prove that another oil spill will not occur again in its waters.

However, in an update shared on the Ministry's Facebook page, a fuel shortage in Peru had forced Peru's Agency for Environmental Assessment and Enforcement (OEFA), to lift the suspension temporarily of the operations of Repsol. However, the company will only be allowed to continue its operations for 10 days and under supervision from the OEFA. As the Government of Peru takes action to protect its people and its environment, Guyana in contrast, continues to give American oil giant, ExxonMobil, permission to operate without full coverage insurance to cater to such a disastrous oil spill.

Just recently, ExxonMobil announced that it has commenced oil production at Guyana's second offshore development area called Liza Phase Two in the Stabroek Block.

Among the oil companies working in Guyana's backyard is the very oil company –Repsol – that caused the oil spill in Peru.

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Saturday February 19, 2022

Saturday February 19, 2022

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Kaieteur News

Narine stars with bat and Secure Innovations & Concepts... ball as Comilla V ictorians Victorians claims thir d BPL title third (SportsMax) - Comilla Victorians are now three-time champions of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) after securing a narrow one-run win over Fortune Barishal in the final in Mirpur on Friday.

In a rematch of the first qualifier which Barishal won by 10 runs, the Victorians won the toss and batted first.

Sunil Narine followed up his 13-ball 50 in the second qualifier with a 23-ball 57 to spur the Victorians to 151-9 off their 20 overs. The Trinidadian’s knock included five fours and five sixes.

Moeen Ali provided good support for Narine with 38 off 32 balls against 2-27 off four

From page 23 record holder Rameez Mohamed's Integra is sure to put down some fast times with mechanic, Balram Ramdeo, ensuring more race longevity this time round.

It has been over two years since the last Endurance race and this has allowed drivers and mechanics to upgrade their machines during the

covid-19 layoff which will make for an exciting day of racing.

Among the competitors expected to participate includes Shan Seejattan, Dowalu 'Afo' Harper, Motilall Deodass, Harold 'Topgun' Hopkinson, Nyron Maraj, Roshan Ali, Adrian & his brother Richard Hamid.

Hopkinson, the principal

of the exclusive sponsors; SI&C, will be on track with one of the most anticipated machines, his Maseratti.

Hopkinson, who is a veteran racer and champion sport shooter, explained that he was very pleased to sponsor yet another race meet and he hopes that the day lives up to the hype after such a long layoff for endurance.

Pant, Kohli, bowlers wrap...

Sunil Narine

overs from Mujeeb Ur Rahman and 2-32 off four overs from Shafiqul Islam.

Scoreboard pressure in a final once again proved to be a major factor as Barishal made a meal of a fairly manageable total. Shykat Ali (58)

and Chris Gayle (33) were the only batsmen to get significant scores for Barishal against 2-15 from four overs from Narine and 2-25 from four overs from Tanvir Islam.

Comilla Victorians previously won BPL in 2015 and 2019.

Saturday January 19, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Love and romance are first and foremost on your agenda for today, Aries. You and your romantic partner may leave a gathering of friends to be alone together and talk.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) A festive event takes place in your home today, Taurus.

Is it a family member's birthday? A lot of lighthearted banter takes place alongside.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your neighborhood is a busy place today, Gemini. Perhaps a public gathering of some kind is happening, maybe social, political, or humanitarian in nature.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Financially, things seem to be going great for you right now, Cancer, and therefore you could plan to make an investment in your home.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) At this time, Leo, most of your focus is on either a group you're affiliated with or an intellectual subject in which you have an intense interest, or perhaps both.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today you might decide to spend much of your day alone at home, Virgo, perhaps working on a creative project of some kind.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Expect to be surrounded by genuine love and affection today, Libra. Friends, family members, and a very special romantic partner could pay you far more attention than usual.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Idealistic love could come your way today, Scorpio.

This might involve a colleague or possibly someone in a group with which you're affiliated.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Travel by air, perhaps in the company of some friends, could well be in the works for you, Sagittarius. A group with which you're affiliated might want to take a trip together, perhaps to a place associated with artistic or spiritual traditions.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A lucky break could put you into a higher financial bracket than you were two days ago, Capricorn. Career matters, perhaps those concerning the arts, could be involved in some way.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A social event could bring a fascinating new someone, perhaps from a different culture, into your life, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Are you falling for someone you know on the job, Pisces? If so, you might find out that your feelings are reciprocated.

From page 24 defend.Memories of another match - at the same venue from the 2016 World Cup came back when, needing four sixes off the last four balls, Powell hit the first two

out of the ground. On both occasions, Harshal went against the plan that had worked: bowled pace and on the stumps. The fifth ball was wide and off-pace, sealing a satisfactory win. (ESPN

Cricinfo) Match details: India 186 for 5 (Pant 52, Kohli 52, V Iyer 33, Chase 3-25) beat West Indies 178 for 3 (Powell 68*, Pooran 62, Bhuvneshwar 129) by eight runs

West Indies’ inaugural...

From page 22 wonderful week of quality cricket for the fans in The

Netherlands.” High Performance Manager of KNCB, Roland Lefebvre said: “The

KNCB is very excited to welcome the West Indies cricket team back to the Netherlands.

The last time the team visited our country was in 1991, for two 55-over friendly matches, with the likes of Richards, Haynes, Ambrose, and Marshall present. These matches will be the second Cricket World Cup Super League home series for the Dutch team and we look forward to a great Caribbean style contest.” The first ODI is billed for Tuesday, May 31 while the second and third will unfold on June 2 and 4.

Tickets go on sale on Sunday, February 20 at 10 am CET (5am Eastern Caribbean) via the KNCB website www.cricket.nl

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Kaieteur News

Saturday February 19, 2022

West Indies’ inaugural ODI tour to the Netherlands confirmed FLASHBACK! Evin Lewis blasted 84 to set up West Indies’ tall ODI score, West Indies v Netherlands, World Cup Qualifier, March 12, 2018. (Getty Images)

(CWI) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) and Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Board (KNCB) announced the match schedule for the West Indies Men’s first ever One Day International (ODI) tour of the Netherlands in 2022.

This tour will be the first-ever ODI Series between the two teams featuring three ODIs from May 31 to June 4 at the VRA Cricket Ground,

Amstelveen.

The three matches form part of the ICC ODI Super League, where West Indies and the Netherlands will have the opportunity to secure points to try and secure one of the top seven places, excluding hosts India, to gain automatic qualification for the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Johnny Grave, CEO of

CWI said: “We have been working closely with our colleagues at KNCB to put together this series immediately after the IPL and we are happy to now be able to announce the match schedule. It’s going to be exciting to tour the Netherlands for the first time.

It is a short tour, but we expect great entertainment during what promises to be a (Continued on page 21)

Saturday February 19, 2022

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Kaieteur News

E-Networks to reward second-place team at Rawle Toney 3X3 Classic - Two-day tournament tips off tonight E-Networks Inc, Guyana’s leading provider of digital cable television, internet, information technology and media services, has pledged its support to this year’s Rawle Toney 3X3 Classic, which will bounce off tonight, from 6:00 pm at Burnham Basketball Court.

At a simple presentation on Friday at E-Networks’ Camp Street headquarters, Marketing Coordinator, Ashley John, handed over the tournament’s second-place cash prize of $100,000 to organizer, Rawle Toney.

Toney, while thanking the company for their support towards his tournament, pointed out that E-Networks has been one of local basketball’s biggest supporters.

“Basketball can always count on E-Networks for support. Every National team

heading out to represent Guyana, their uniforms are branded with the company’s logo for a reason. It doesn’t take much to convince the company’s principal to support sports in general,” Toney explained.

Meanwhile, John highlighted E-Networks’ love for sports and their commitment to seeing basketball, at all formats, developed in Guyana.

On behalf of the company, John wished Toney a successful hosting of the second edition of his 3x3 basketball spectacle, while pledging E-Networks’ continued support for the competition in the future.

The 16-team tournament will see players from around the region and North America, converging at the recently refurbished basketball court to see who will cash in on the tournament’s lucrative prizes.

Looking ahead to this

weekend’s action, the ‘who’s who’ of Guyana’s basketball will be on show. With the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) emphasizing the 3X3 format, Toney said he was impressed with the composition of teams. Pit Bulls 2.0 the tournament’s defending champions, will return this year, but with Travis Burnett replacing Travis Belgrave on the team that won it all in 2019.

Burnett, who now resides in New York, and represented Guyana at the FIBA 3X3 AmeriCup tournament recently in Miami, will have the 2019 Rawle Toney Classic MVP Ryan Stephney on his roster, along with Ryan Gullen and Jermaine Slatter.

National Captain and the CBC MVP, Stanton Rose Jr, will partner with Shelroy Thomas, Harold Adams and Shane Webster on team Linden.

Former National Player Dwayne ‘Brown Sugar’ Roberts will also make a return to the basketball court in Guyana after several years, joining Laurel Bobb and Kestar Blair on his ‘Q’ Ballers

team. “There are so many great players; I’m more excited to see how it all unfolds on Burnham Court over the weekend. I think this is a great way to usher the return of competitive basket-

ball back to Guyana. It will be the country’s first major basketball tournament since the advent of the COVID-19 Pandemic and I hope everyone can come out and support,” Toney said.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday February 19, 2022

Achievers SC, WBCA to Pant, Kohli, bowlers host 100-ball tourney wrap up series for India

The Achievers youth and Sports Club and the West Berbice Cricket Association (WBCA), will be hosting a 100-ball four team tournament on Sunday at the Bush Lot ground.

The tournament will be held in honour of the l a t e f o r m e r c r i c k e t e r, Brentnol Woodford, who

passed away on January 14, 2022, in the USA. Wo o d f o r d , a l s o a f o r m e r p o l ic e o f f i c e r , played for the Rainbow Generation, Bush Lot and West Berbice first division teams and also the West Berbice Franchise.

The teams set to participate in the tournament are Bush Lot United, Achievers

under-21 team, Achievers Senior team and the Police Cricket team.

Expected to grace to venue are officials from the West Berbice Association, parents and other family members of Woodford.

The WBCA will present a plaque to Woolford family following the final.

Nicholas Pooran’s effort, once again vent down in vain. (Getty Images) Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar defended 36 off the last three overs on a dewy ground and small boundaries to seal India’s series win with one match to go. Thanks to a slow start chasing 187, West Indies were to maintain a run rate of two a ball for the last nine overs. Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell pulled it off for six overs, but Harshal and Bhunveshwar denied them in the last three overs.

Harshal began the turnaround with just eight off the 18th over, Bhuvneshwar followed it up with a four-run 19th over that also got Pooran out, and Harshal closed it out calmly. That India had those extra 10 or so runs to play with was down to the finish provided by Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer, who took 88 off the last seven overs after a middle-overs slowdown in which Roston Chase took three wickets for 25. If India’s problem was the middle overs, West Indies’ openers played just over a fourth of the innings between them for only 34 runs. West Indies managed only 96 runs in boundaries to India’s 108.

Intent (but also struggle) at the top India have long been criticised for conservative batting at the top of the order but of late they have all been more assertive. All three of Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma and Kohli looked for boundaries every half chance they got. Kishan struggled against the moving ball from Sheldon Cottrell, scoring just two off 10; Rohit didn’t find his usual timing, getting 19 off 18; but Kohli raced away, taking 29 off the first 18 balls he played.

India were 49 for 1 after the powerplay.

Chase pulls India back

Roston Chase played the last match only because Jason Holder was not available, but his figures of 4-0-14-2 kept him in even when Holder came back. He got into his work immediately. The pitch gripped a little, and he used his changes of pace and trajectory well. It was going to be interesting if Kohli would continue with the same intent - he hardly attempts boundaries off spin in the middle overs - but that is probably a question for another day as wickets fell around him and he probably had to delay the second assault. Rohit looked to slog a slot ball but this scrambled-seam ball didn’t turn and took a thick outside edge. Suryakumar Yadav provided a return catch as the ball stopped and turned.

Kohli scored 23 off the last 23 balls he faced, getting to his fifty courtesy a drop the first time he attempted a boundary off spin post powerplay. In the same over, though, Chase spun one through the gate to make it 106 for 4 in the 14th over.

Pant, Iyer provide big finish Both these left-hand batters began with a boundary first ball. The dew was setting in, the spin overs were done.

They had to propel India now.

Kieron Pollard tried to slip in one over of the fifth bowler, but Pant didn’t let him, taking 14 off that 15th over. Holder and Cottrell returned to concede 15 and 13. All of a sudden, not just the fifth bowler, the two main bowlers looked under threat.

Shepherd does damage control Enter Romario Shepherd, whose first over went for 15 inside the powerplay. He used the wide yorkers and changes of pace well to frustrate the

two left-hand batters. The 18th over went for 12 but also just one boundary, which encouraged Pollard to give him the 20th, ahead of Cottrell. No boundary came off the last over. The slow start With the ball still dry, India were spot on with the ball.

Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar moved the ball, Yuzvendra Chahal bowled two overs in the powerplay, and Ravi Bishnoi took on the challenge of bowling with the wetter ball. West Indies’ problem was the amount of time their openers spent in the middle. Brandon King faced 30 balls for 22, Kyle Mayers nine off 10. The legspinners perhaps did West Indies a favour, getting them out.

The Pooran-Powell show Like Pant and Iyer, Powell and Pooran put up a hitting exhibition. Memories of the 2016 World Cup semi-final must have haunted India as even good overs began to go for around 12 if they made even half a mistake. Pooran was more versatile, using the area behind square too, and Powell was pure power. In the 17th over, they hit Chahar for a six each to undo any gains made by Bishnoi and Bhuvneshwar in their previous overs.

The finish Harshal had the big challenge of bowling two overs in the last three, but he began with a plan: no pace and wide of the batters’ reach.

Despite a last-ball four, he had bowled the best over of the second half of the innings. Bhuvneshwar was about to go one better, following the same formula, but also mixing in two yorkers, one wide and one straight.

No boundary in that over meant Harshal had 24 to (Continued on page 21)

Kaieteur News

Saturday February 19, 2022

PAGE 25

Secure Innovations & Concepts Endurance revs off tomorrow Rameez Mohamed's Integra

Barbados Pride lost only 8 wickets in the 4-day match.

Scorpions’ collapse gives Pride second win to start West Indies Championship season (SportsMax) - The Barbados Pride secured their second win in as many games in the West Indies Championship with a 10wicket win over the Jamaica Scorpions on day four at the Kensington Oval on Friday.

Entering day four 56-1, the Scorpions looked fairly comfortable throughout the first two sessions, losing only three more wickets to be 174-4 at the tea interval.

T h a t c o m f o r t disappeared quickly as they lost their final six wickets in

quick succession, eventually being bowled out for 233 leaving the Pride needing just 41 for victory.

Jermaine Blackwood got a top score of 61 while Jamie Merchant chipped in with 47 for the Scorpions against 678 from Jomel Warrican.

Kraigg Brathwaite and Shayne Moseley then ensured that the Pride got to their target with no problems, reaching 42-0 with Moseley finishing on 34 and Brathwaite on seven.

The Scorpions join the

United Warriors overcome Crown XI United Warriors beat Crown XI by 15 runs when the Anthony Adams and Friends/Team Daniels South Essequibo Cricket Committee T/20 competition continued recently with one match.

United Warriors batted first and managed 102-2. J. Alicock top scored with 41,

Shane Wong made 40 and S. Narine contributed 18.

Crown XI responded with 87-6 as S. Boodram top scored for his side with 15 as Wong took two wickets for the winning side. The organizing committee said that only one game was possible due to the unavailability of grounds.

Windward Islands Volcanoes as losers of their first two games.Final Scores: Jamaica Scorpions 328 and 233, Barbados Pride 521-8 declared and 42-0.

C

ompetitors will be pleased to know that the National Covid-19 task force has given its approval for the running off of the first round of the Endurance Championship that has been organised by the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC).

Under full sponsorship of Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc (SIC), the event is expected to see a full grid of competitors and the GMR&SC has been very vigilant via social media correspondence with its members ensuring that the correct health and

safety protocols along with COVID-19 guidelines will be employed during the highly anticipated race.

At least 20 cars are expected to line up at the South Dakota Circuit, Timehri, tomorrow for the three-hour long battle and many of the top competitors have already confirmed their participation including defending overall and 1600cc champion, Adrian Fernandes and Anand Ramchand, who will be piloting the Team Wreckers' Gillette sponsored Levin.Meanwhile, lap (Continued on page 21)

Secure Innovations & Concepts Endurance revs off tomorrow

Rishbah Pant top scored for India.

Pant, Kohli, bowlers wrap up series for India

Harold Hopkinson on the go in his Maserati GranTurismo (Jeremy Jagroop photo)

s t r o Sp

E-Networks to reward second-place team at Rawle Toney 3X3 Classic

E-Networks' Marketing Coordinator, Ashley John, handing over $100,000 towards the second-place prize for the Rawle Toney Classic.

- Two-day tournament tips off tonight

The Rawle Toney 3X3 Classic Championship Ring.

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