K
AIETEUR ExxonMobil to escape Monday Edition NEWS penalty for increasing release of toxic chemicals - Minister Bharrat says Liza oil into airspace production to remain at 120,000 barrels
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
February 01, 2021 - Vol. 14 No.05
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Price $80
P.11
Online readership yesterday, 90,250
Exxon’s Shut them flaring… down and
make them pay!
- Melinda Janki
5.7 magnitude 135 investors join Venezuelan earthquake hits forces to bring military last seen in Guyana’s Brazil, leaves pressure on waters four days Lethem with damaged properties Exxon for change ago - Chief-of-Staff P. 3
ExxonMobil only needs 5 oil vessels to produce a million barrels of oil per day
Opposition, EPA silent on Exxon’s increased flaring - Dr. Adams says oil giant must explain why equipment failure only occurring in Guyana Oil contract can be renegotiated. Listen to the Glenn Lall Show Monday 7:20PM on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM
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Kaieteur News
Monday February 01, 2021
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor: SHARMAIN GRAINGER Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Good neighbour vaccine outreach. Why Not? In a world awash with intensifying tension and strife, we say that it should be done early, since it would be such a wonderful humanitarian gesture, and in a time when most needed, that of severe crisis. It is this peculiar situation in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic, where hostilealmost at war-neighbours, India and Pakistan, are both struggling to manage their enormous outbreaks from the fangs of this virus. India has the vaccine, and has began distribution to friendly relations, which is a commendable action; it must now rise above the fratricidal fray, and to the challenging occasion, and extend a helping hand to hard pressed Pakistan confronting challenging circumstances brought about by the relentless assaults of the COVID-19 virus. India has its own pandemic problems plaguing its society, with its hands more than full in efforts to manage effectively and overcome what has infected millions of its own. But even as this is said, it has to be noted that “India makes about 60 percent of vaccines globally” and “has begun shipping millions of free doses to friendly neighbours in the region” as part of its vaccine diplomacy strategy (“Will Pakistan get COVID vaccines from India?” BBC, January 29). It is irrelevant that, at the core of this vaccine diplomacy on India’s part, there is the belief in some quarters that it is intended to serve as a counter to increasing Chinese influence in the region, and the distribution is part and parcel of India’s own geopolitical visions. What is relevant is that Pakistan has over a half million confirmed cases, and that next door India is the world’s largest vaccine maker. Which one of us would be so filled with rancor and venom that our neighbour’s home is on fire and we do not rush to lend a helping hand? It does not matter that relations had deteriorated to such a poor place that not one civil word has been shared for the longest while. What is relevant and important is that there is a medical emergency of the first degree, that vaccines are available, and that there is need. It should be of no significance that anger and hostility are the order of the day. This is what has removed man from the treetops and the caves. It is at such a crossroad of circumstances that compels us to how we must be, since we know all too well what we must do. This is when the light of man is made to shine at its brightest. India is shining in its vaccine actions extended to its neighbours. Though distant, there is optimism in Guyana that some of that vaccine generosity would make its way, all the way over here, and early. This pharmaceutical powerhouse of a country “has pledged to deliver up to 200 million doses to low and middle-income countries before the end of 2021.” Again, it is our wish that Guyana’s name would feature smartly in the considerations of which places get some doses, and how many. Some in Pakistan are similarly wishful and hopeful, and they have some facts at their fingertips that point in the right direction. According to Usman Ghani of the Sindh Medical Stores, a top Karachi-based importer of vaccines, currently “almost 90 percent of vaccines administered in Pakistan come from India.” He further added that Indian vaccines “are world-class, affordable, and shipping is easy.” Again, we say that in the interest of possibly enhanced neighbourly relations, it should be done and soon. To do otherwise would smack of the malicious and vicious. Such a helpful move by India towards its arch-rival of a neighbour would only be interpreted as noble and humane, and incredibly compassionate in a time of trouble. For too long, the two nuclear-armed and religiously committed nations have been at each other’s windpipes. Vaccine outreach can go a long way in deescalating from the heights of roiling tensions and pave the way to something approaching calm. It is that or continuing and spreading military confrontations and standoffs. We think that there is a good opportunity for India to take the lead and set an example for other places to follow. So, we say again: share some vaccines. Be a good neighbour. Share the wealth, and seek openings to make life a little more bearable for the people of both societies.
Government should have consultation with stakeholders on fishing licences DEAR EDITOR, The Minister of Agriculture has continuously been ignoring calls for an explanation on the granting of two Fishing Licences for Seabob Fishing, and the naming of the Licencees. This matter was first highlighted by the Guyana Association of Trawler Owners and Seafood Processors (GATOSP), in a letter dated 19th November 2020, to the Minister. The said Minister was reported to be initiating “an investigation to determine how the two new trawling licences were issued” (Stabroek News, 27th Nov 2020. Seafood processors alarmed at reports two new trawling licences issued by the ministry.) Since then there has been no report on the status of the investigation. The GATOSP claimed the issuance of the two new licences was in breach of the current licencing agreement it had with the Fisheries Department of the Ministry of Agriculture. The agreement had caused a reduction in the trawler fleet from One Hundred (100) to Eighty (80) trawlers. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) got involved when it wrote on 11th December 2020, to the Minister “seeking clarification on the context in which the licences were granted.” (Papannah, D. 2020. WWF concerned over new seabob fishing licences -warns of possible loss of certification, industry collapse, Stabroek News.) The
Guyana Country Manager for the WWF Guianas, Ms Aiesha Williams “expressed concern over the reported issuance of the new licences in a manner that could have “deep implications” for the countrys ability to maintain its Maritime Stewardship Council (MSC) certification over seabob.” This hints at the possibility of Guyana losing its MSC certification which was obtained with the aid of the WWF. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) lists Guyana as the largest seabob exporter globally, and Guyana is already under international scrutiny over how it manages this fishery resource. This seabob industry is Guyanas only certified fishery sector and it needs to be protected. Ms. Aiesha Williams, pointed out in her letter that a recent stock assessment of Guyanas seabob population revealed that it is fully exploited and it is at the point where the population curve is at the maximum sustainable yield. “Any further increase in fishing effort will lead to overfishing and possible collapse of the industry, since the removal of individuals (seabob) is equal to the number of recruits (offspring) entering the fishery (deaths = births), from a fisheries management context,” She also stated that the sector is a closed fishery with 87 licenced seabob trawlers from which the current harvest
control rule is calculated. Any change in the licencing to increase fishing will “therefore push the Guyana Seabob fishery industry beyond the sustainability limit”. Unfortunately, all of this appears to have been missed or sidelined by the Minister as he has granted the approval for the two licences, without any consultation with the GATOSP, which consists of the industrys experts and those most affected. This is not the style of management expected by the Ali Government. This type of management is very high handed and has a “dont care” attitude. Gone are the days when Ministers could do whatever they felt like without any repercussions. The Guyanese people are no longer docile. When the said Minister refuses to name the licencees when asked to in Parliament, he is thumbing his nose at the 227,016 persons who did not vote for his Party. We would like to know the names of those who were granted the licences. The Minister, by refusing to provide the names, is opening the door for claims of corruption, cronyism and nepotism taking place again in a PPP Government, the previous two of which were filled with such accusations. The Minister said, “There is equally no requirement to consult with the trawler owners and seafood processors for the grant of new licences.” This is the attitude we must demand our Government(s)
move away from. No Government should be making decisions which will affect an industry, without first consulting the stakeholders of that industry. We are NOT a dictatorship. The Minister is also on record as saying that some of the existing licences are dormant or inactive. If this is indeed the situation, the Minister should first revoke those licences which are not being used or have not been used during the previous 5 years, then issue the new licences, keeping the number of trawlers within the agreed quota for the sustainability of the industry. It is my suggestion that the management of the Fisheries Department, not the Minister, get together with the GATOSP and decide on whether there are any unused, inactive, dormant fishing licences. Reasons should be given why these licences are in their present state and what is the possibility of them becoming active in the very near future. If there are no valid reasons given, the owners of those licenses should be given a warning with a timeline, that they may lose their licences if they do not reactivate them. The Fisheries Department can then make recommendations, agreed upon with the GATOSP, to the Minister who can then issue new licences if needed. Yours truly, Jonathan Yearwood
I agree with President Ali on the halting of took place. Those men and one. talks with Venezuela That is my position, and I vessels should in the same are, and what Venezuela come would be warmed to read and condition as when they were Dear Editor, The article titled, “Bilateral talks with Venezuela on ice until it ceases aggression -President” (SN January 31) refers. On this particular issue, I am in full agreement with His Excellency, President Ali. I urge him: There must be no altering of that position, no moving from that place. This may be surprising coming from me, since I am one that is always open to reaching out and dialoguing in genuine efforts to find some way out of the quagmire. And what we have with Venezuela is more than border controversy; it possesses all the insoluble components of conundrum and the inextricable elements of quicksand. I am all for dialogue, but not under the current insulting circumstances. We must not now, and we must commit to ever at any time, discuss and negotiate with the barrel of a gun held over our heads. For, however examined, this is where we
with under the guise of an olive branch of sorts. This is about the healthy and peaceful relationship between two neighbours, and the sifting for a way out of what has hobbled for over three score years now, but more accurately for over a century when all is counted and considered. Editor, we are two countries assembled in the supposed comity of nations, with the proper respects that flow from such reciprocal regards, and from that there should be no wavering nor budging. To underscore this point in the most unambiguous manner, we are not some indebted nation to be held hostage by and fearful of a powerful Mafia menace (or geographical and territorial loan sharks), where offers are dangled with the understanding and confidence that they cant be refused. Well refused they have been, and I am totally with the president on this
hear and learn that it is not only government partisans who rally to such a position, but also that there are no divides, no mental barricades, where this is concerned, and given the circumstances under which this country presently finds itself. To be specific, I would like to see and hear, the opposition and its people who (like me) make use of public facilities to articulate on other issues of our existence. In view of the unilateral, uncalled for, and undeniably belligerent actions executed by the Venezuela Navy responding to the directions of its political head, there can and should not be any partisanship on this today. Or any other time for that matter. The first task and obligation of the day for Venezuela is to release those men held and boats detained. It must do so quickly, and following such helpful action, there must be no repetition of what
illegally seized. All of this is nonnegotiable and are showstoppers. No ice (to use SNs caption) can be broken; rather the most Artic deepfreeze must and will prevail. For to cower and succumb to our neighbours overture is tantamount to abject surrender, and sets us up to be pushed around again and again. And even then, I am adamant in my opposition to any bullying dialogue that seeks to bypass what waits on authoritative and respected adjudication. For clearly, the Venezuela leadership is highly concerned and agitated over the hand that it holds. It seeks to go around the judicial process; it is endeavoring to make an end run around the outcome that its leaders have concluded is all but inevitable. So, it is trying mightily (and rather clumsily and heavy handedly) to get us to (Continued on page 6)
Monday February 01, 2021
Minority groups have always played a role in the struggle of an aggrieved predominant group DEAR EDITOR, Response is being made to the false allegations of Donald Ramotar (KN 17TH Jan 2021) and Vishnu Bisram (KN 13th Jan 2021). Asking Sam Hinds, as former Prime Minister and President during the PPP/C government, to provide evidence of what he did for the Black community in his respective portfolios is justifiable. It was Cheddie Jagan, in identifying Sam as his prime ministerial candidate, who said Hinds will be “the bridge” to the Black community. It is downright dishonest therefore for Ramotar to accuse those who are asking Sam to provide his performance record of “continu[ing] to pursue that racist line.” If Jagan, who so viewed and identified Sam as “the bridge” is not being attacked or accused of pursuing a “racist line,” how in heaven’s name those who so seek to hold Sam accountable to Jagans statement are the target for attack and accusation? Something is definitely wrong with Ramotars reasoning or he is deliberately setting out to deflect, deceive and sow further divisions based on lies. He is behaving like the other Donald (Trump), displaying the penchant for distorting truths and stoking ethnic tension based on falsifications. Now to Vishnu Bisram. Nothing he says would change the fact that he thrives on promoting racial triumphalism. In this instance it’s his professed ‘knowledge’ about the role of U.S Vice President Kamala Harris Black Jamaica father, Donald Harris vis-à-vis her East Indian mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris. Even were he to be shown, for instance, a Harris post on her Instagram account (June 2020) he would
continue to argue her father did not play a “significant role” in her life. The following are Harris’ words: — “My parents marched and shouted in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Its because of them and the folks who also took to the streets to fight for justice that I am where I am. They laid the path for me, as only the second Black woman ever elected to the United States Senate….” There would be no surprise if he finds some other reason to devalue this excerpt, given the equal prominence of both parents, which would make persons of his thinking uncomfortable. To his alleged claim of supporting Black causes in the U.S where he is a beneficiary of the African Americans struggles for civil, voting, fair housing, equal employment opportunity, affirmative actions and other rights, he is reminded “to whom much is given much is expected.” On the issue of other races and ethnic groups role in Black American struggles, Bisram is reminded that such support is not unlike the white abolitionists in the Black struggle for emancipation, not unlike the struggle in India to end white colonialism or in the West Indies for independence. Minority groups have always played a role in the struggle of an aggrieved predominant group. What such action confirms is the solidarity nature of decent people in the fight for universal justice. It is borne out of recognition and appreciation that what affects one invariably affects all, that your peace is intertwined with my peace. And whereas he is allowed opportunities as a minority race in another mans land he creates roadblocks to the Black struggles in Guyana to enjoy what he enjoys in the
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U.S. I remain unapologetic in my firm stance defending lands in Kingelly WCB that are still owned, as per Transport #4246 dated July 1851, by my great ancestor Cudjoe McPherson. As a descendant and one of his many heirs there shall be no wavering in ensuring the unoccupied lands remain in the familys possession. I shall not be deterred or distracted. Let me remind Bisram he entered the conversation with a lie that workers he “spoke with say Lewis should take positions like that of his predecessor Joseph Pollydore and be supportive of what is right not what favours his race.” In all his responses he has failed to provide any shred of evidence where I have acted inimical to the rights of any group, any race, including mine. No worker told him anything but over the years he has been allowed to run free trafficking in lies. In societies such as ours, where the authors of lies and reckless statements about individuals in the media go unchallenged, the purveyors of these public mischiefs are shaping a false narrative and besmirching the names of those who worked hard to build and maintain their character. We cannot allow these mischief makers to create an alternate reality, where truth is no longer the truth because they say so. They are playing a dangerous game and together they do society more harm than good. The affected must fight back by speaking up. Yours truly, Lincoln Lewis
I believe that Exxonss excuse for recent flaring is a lame one DEAR EDITOR, Please, please allow me space in your newspaper, to make a few comments/suggestion on the subject of flaring at the Exxon Mobil platform. There is an old figuration expression that goes like this, “If you behave like a dog, people will treat you like one”. First of all, I would assume that the Government of Guyana and all Guyanese knows the consequences and hazards that are related to flaring of the magnitude we presently experience. Hence, the excuse given by Exxon Mobil, is totally unacceptable, whilst the inaction of the Government of Guyana can only be described as passive. I am not too certain if any other country in this civilized world, would accept a lame excuse (DEFECTIVE COMPRESSOR SEAL) as a reason for this “disaster in the making.” The compressor seal, based on my understanding was recently replaced. If I am correct then I can only assume one of the following; (1) The seal has a very short life cycle. (2) The replacement seal was not properly installed or damaged during installation. (3) The replacement installed did not meet the required design/technical specifications. (4) The defective seal in the first instant was not replaced but repaired. Now if we make the assumption that this type of seal has a very short life cycle, a logical question to ask is, “Does Exxon Mobil adhere to proper/established inventory control management practices?” Secondly, if the seal was not properly installed, Exxon
Mobil I believe has the responsibility to explain to local authorities, what is the standard installation procedure (ISO requirement) and what deviation actually took place. This approach is inescapable in order to eliminate any future repeat. Thirdly, I do not know what the seal looks like and I cannot specifically say what inspection/measurement procedures may have been applicable. Hence, Exxon Mobil has the ethical responsibility to disclose what inspection was done prior to installation. Finally, I understand that Exxon Mobil is an internationally reputable company and I do not believe that the seal was not replaced but repaired. However, an investigation in this direction may not be worthless. I believe that the response given by Exxon Mobil that they are in the process of procuring another seal is an insult to Guyanese and to an extent is indicative of how
they see us. I also believe that consideration should be given to retrofitting another compressor on the platform, to elevate overall reliability of the compressor fleet. A second compressor will also facilitate planned maintenance to be executed as per schedule. The potential environmental disaster due excessive flaring cannot be tolerated, even at this early stage. I am disturbed that the Guyana Association of Professional Engineers continues to be silent on important engineering issues like this. However, GAPE seems to be spending lots of time planning their Christmas functions. Guyanese cannot and should accept the destruction of our environment, whilst Exxon Mobil awaits the arrival of this seal. This is garbage and in my mind a reflection of how the outside world see us. Yours truly, Hector Lambert
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Monday February 01, 2021
ON THE RIGHT TO REFUSE WORK DEAR EDITOR, A right is something that you are morally or legally entitled to do or to have. Workers do not automatically enjoy the legal right to refuse or shut down unsafe work in every jurisdiction or every circumstance. However, we always have the moral right to refuse or shut down unsafe work. In serious circumstances, we believe that not only do we have the right to refuse or shut down unsafe work, but we also have to do so. Our problems arise when the exercise of that right is not protected from reprisals by the employer like the Guyana Oil Company Limited. Notice that wherever workers enjoy the legal right to refuse work, either in national laws, or collective bargaining agreements, it has always followed worker activism and demands; never preceded it. Our rights are rarely given to us freely we must demand and fight for them. The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 3, States “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” It does not state that these rights disappear when you go to work. Indeed, the right to favourable conditions of work is also mentioned in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Another United Nations document, the international covenant on Economic, Social and Culture Rights, provides that everyone should have the right to safe
and healthy working conditions. However, the most important reference to the right to refuse unsafe work comes from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), a specialised United Nations Agency dealing with International Labour Standards. The ILO has several Conventions and Recommendations that mention the right to refuse unsafe work. The most generally significant of these is convention 155, Occupational Safety and Health Convention,1981. Convention 155 States (excerpts): “Article 4 (1) Each Member shall, in the light of national conditions and practice, and consultation with the most representative organisations of employers and workers, formulate, implement and periodically review a coherent national policy on occupational safety, occupational health and the working environment. (2). The policy shall aim to prevent accidents and injury to health arising out of, linked with or occurring in the course of work, by minimising, so far as is reasonably practicable, the causes of hazards inherent in the working environment.” “ Article 5 (e) The protection of workers and their representatives from disciplinary measures as a result of actions properly taken by them a conformity with the policy referred to in Article 4 of this convention”. “Article 13. A worker who
removed himself from a work situation which he/she has reasonable justification to believe presents an imminent danger to his/her life or health shall be protected from undue consequences following national conditions and practice.” “Article 19. There shall be arrangements at the level of the undertaking… (f) a worker reports forthwith to his/her immediate supervisor any situation which he/she has reasonable justification to believe presents an imminent and serious danger to his/her life or health; until the employer has taken remedial action, if necessary, the employer cannot require workers to return to a work situation where there is continuing imminent and serious danger to life or health.” In plain language, this says that within the context of national law, workers can, with reasonable justification, remove themselves from unsafe work and not return until the employer has remedied the situation, and if they have exercised this right in good faith they cant suffer undue consequences. Other ILO conventions also refer to this right. For example, convention 176 the Safety and Health in Mines Convention, 1995; Recommendation 183 on Safety and Health in Mines 1995; Recommendation 172 on Asbestos, 1986 and Recommendation 177 on chemicals, 1990. ILO conventions have legal standing when ratified, but our government may
I agree with President Ali on the... From page 4 the table of conversation, so as to squeeze out an advantageous bargain for itself. I respectfully caution the president, the PPP government, and this nation not to fall for that one; or to be mistaken as to the ultimate objectives of Venezuela. My position is that, since it cannot prevail in the courts or the international community, then it endeavors to woo
our leaders to obtain an agreement here, a concession there, and a piece of territory as part of the deliberations. That will leave us still unsettled, and the matter would remain never fully resolved. Because, at some time down the road, there will be a different Maduro, who will work ferociously to link his political fortunes to what is now held as sacred birthright in Venezuela.
Editor, that would be all of Essequibo. In fact, it just might be all of Guyana, if we allow these people to run all over us and dictate the timing, the agenda, and participants in this disturbing national affair of the highest order. No backdoor strategies to sidestep the ICJ. No agreeing to dialogue on border. Yours truly, GHK Lall
have ratified these conventions. However, both ILO Convention and ILO Recommendations can be referred to as part of International best practice sometimes even in countries that have not ratified the relevant convention. The Guyana Oil Company Limited is in breach and violation of Occupational Safety and Health act No. 32 of 1997. After being reconstituted, the Occupational Safety and Health committee excludes the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union who represent 90% of workers at the Guyana Oil Company Limited. “Section (22)(5) The selection of a safety and health representative shall be made by those workers who do not exercise managerial functions and who will be represented by the safety and health representative in the workplace, or the part. Or parts thereof, as the case may be.” “ Section (22)(6) Where a trade union or trade unions are representing the workers referred to in subsection (5), the selection of a safety and health representative may be delegated by a majority of
such workers to the trade union or trade unions.” “ section (23)(8) The members of a committee who represent workers shall be selected by the workers who do not exercise managerial functions and who will be represented by those members of the committee in the workplace or the part or parts thereof, as the case may be.”
“Section (23)(9) Where a trade union or trade unions are representing the workers referred to in subsection (8), the selection of the members of a committee referred to in subsection (8) maybe by a delegated majority of such workers to the trade union or trade unions.” The Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Many collective bargaining agreements refer to the right to refuse or shut d own unsafe work.
When there is a disagreement in the interpretation of labour law or collective agreements between an employer and a worker, the general rule is to comply now and grieve later. This advice serves to protect the worker from immediate discipline or
discharge, on the belief that if a labour arbitrator or judge later rule in favour of the worker, an appropriate remedy can be applied. Lost wages can be repaid, workers can be restored to their rightful positions, indignities can be compensated. However, in the case of occupational Health and Safety, this general rule cannot apply. There is no remedy that an arbitrator can impose that will restore life or health, if it is lost. The right to refuse or to shut down, unsafe or unhealthy work is not automatically guaranteed by law or by CBA. Like all human rights, we assert our moral authority when we demand it. It is a right that we must win, lost it along with our health or life. Thats what the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) mean we say “the Guyoil workers have the right to refuse unsafe work”. Yours truly, Sherwood Clarke General President Clerical & Commercial Workers Union
Guyana has had its fair share of hostilities from both our neighbours DEAR EDITOR, I was just about captioning my discourse with you this morning as “The Venezuelan aggression,” making specific reference to the border controversy between the two states, but I stopped short of doing so knowing fully well that we have no controversy with that country’s peoples but with its leader. Hitherto this time we’ve had excellent relations with The Bolivarian Republic in a good neighbourly friendship in the bartering of our rice and sugar in return for cheap petroleum and their byproducts. This is the kind of cordial relations that each country enjoyed until something drastically took place, when all of that changed. That eventful something was the change in USA Policy towards Venezuela which in essence started this turn of events. So if someone should ask the question, why would a change in Venezuela’s rela-
tions have any bearing on us? Well, the simple answer to that question is ever since relations between Venezuela and The Americans soured, this caused The Bolivarian Republic shifting its stance with us, meaning, everything from that time until now hit a discordant note where friendship is concerned. Venezuela now views Guyana as a threat to them and in that regard the concomitant hostilities meted out towards us. They are picking a fight with poor defenseless Guyana when the real object of their indignation is The United States, this is the way Maduro sees it. He thinks that we are too close to The USA whom is an arch enemy of theirs, hence the peeved performance of this man when he sees our fishermen near his territorial waters. And from the looks of things, this aggression will not go away anytime soon, even though they have agreed to a resump-
tion of the good neighbourly diplomacy policy. Even at this latest conciliatory move of theirs, we cannot drop our guard but keep a constant, watchful eye, on the actions of Maduro. But lest we be carried away with The Venezuelan discussion, we need to take a step back and review the actions of our neighbour to the East of us, theirs was a similar course of action taken to resolve the disputed maritime boundary. In fact Suriname’s actions were even more severe, in that they routed the prospecting CGX Oil Rig out of the disputed waters with gunboats. That matter was only settled when we resorted to The International Court of Justice. In short Guyana has had its fair share of hostilities from both our neighbours. The point I am making is that the legal resolution is the only recourse we must take to get to a final and lasting settlement to our borders. In addition we must get back to the beaten path of good neighbourly relations; neighbours ought to live like neighbours. To our legal team I would reiterate the point that we must add our maritime boundary dispute matter on to the ICJ’s Case docket, in this way we will get to a final and definitive settlement of this issue. Yours truly Neil Adams
Monday February 01, 2021
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Killing us softly with its COVID-19 strategy Yesterday, the country recorded a staggering 60 additional confirmed COVID-19 cases, continuing the trend which began since the start of the New Year. The pandemic is now a runaway train. The PPP/C does not know what next to do. It has always been short of ideas but nothing highlights its intellectual bareness than its failure to come to ensure stricter enforcement. The President speaks glowingly about the soft approach to enforcement, given the impracticality of arresting persons and having to detain them. Once again, like his Minister of Health and his Prime Minister, he repeats the call for greater responsibility from citizens. This is like saying that instead of the police taking stern action to fight crime, people should be more careful inside and outside the home. The soft approach is not working. Violations of social restrictions are now widespread. Hundreds of persons are congregating at wakehouses and funeral homes to pay their final respect to the dead. The seawall is jampacked on Sunday. A popular hotel always seems to have a large number of vehicles parked outside its premises. But we are told that social distancing is being practiced inside. The police are supposed to be doing a good job at soft enforcement, according to the President. But about 800
meters away from a Police Station there is a bar which is open to patrons. People are having a jolly goodtime. Birthday parties and weddings are being hosted without restraints. Some people are walking the streets without face masks. Some businesses are admitting customers without face masks. If social distancing is not being practiced, what is to be done? Is the government simply to turn a blind eye to the violations of its own regulations? The government has run out of options. It is now counting on a vaccine to help stem the infection rate. But if the numbers continue with their steep trajectory, 24,000 vaccines are not going to have any impact. There has to be a simultaneous plan to stem infections as well as to inoculate the population. The first instalment of 3,400 vaccines under the COVAX initiative is said to be due in February. That may be too optimistic given the shortages which are plaguing the worldwide vaccination campaign. China is also said to be donating 20,000 vaccines. That is 20,000 too few. The high-risk age group in Guyana starts from age 55, not 65, and there would be a need for some 40,000 vaccines to cover the 55 plus age range. China has so far produced two vaccines. One of them is produced by SINOPHARM, a state-owned company; and the other by SINOVAC a pri-
vate firm. None of these two vaccines have been cleared as yet by the World Health Organization (WHO). A decision from the WHO is not expected before March but some other countries have already started to use the vaccines. Neither the President nor his Minister of Health has said which one of the vaccines Guyana will receive. It is important that any vaccine being given to the elderly – the most high-risk group – should not have an efficacy rate of less than 75 percent. There has been controversy over the efficacy rate of the vaccine produced by SINOVAC. China should be asked to only donate the SINOPHARM vaccine. It will cost the Chinese nothing to add an additional 20,000 so as to ensure enough quantities to inoculate the 55+ age group. The government plans to have 35 teams involved. That is too inadequate a number considering the size and complexity of Guyana’s territory. Thirty-five teams, that is perhaps what is needed in Region Four alone. Not for the entire country! Also, it means that each team will have to inoculate 200 persons per day. At an average of one person every five minutes – there will be the need for pre-registration, appointments and paperwork – it would mean that in an eighthour shift, one station can only do around 100 vaccinations per day. So it will require at least two stations per every team to ensure the target
Dem Boys Seh…
Even CRITIC nah get invite! In California dem have a three strikes rule. If yuh get find guilty fuh three felonies yuh could end up serving life imprisonment. Nuff people frighten dat three strikes rule. Dem boys wan want Prezzie implement a three strikes rule fuh he Ministers. But if he do dat young Charlie gan be in deep shaving cream He dun strike out. Fuss was de ban dat put pun de cricket board officials. Strike one! Den was de statement wah get all dem sporting as-
sociations so frighten dat dem had to have de Olympic man write young Charlie a letter. Strike two! Den was de strike pun de media. Strike 3. De press complain to Prezzie. Dem boys waiting fuh hear what he can seh and what is he excuse. Prezzie like de soft approach and so he gan be soft with young Charlie. But dem boys seh he come down hard pun de media last Saturday. Dem boys know dat dis is de time of COVID-19 but de Prezzie host a Briefing on Sat-
urday and he nah invite de Stabber and de Waterfall papers. He also nah invite some of dem social media wha does pose as media houses. But de biggest shock was dat de man wah does seh he is de best thing out of Guyana, nah get invite also. Dem boys nah know also whether de CRITIC was in de House yesterday when de free food and drinks was sharing. Talk half and tell Prezzie and de Vee Pee dat when a young lady come fuh tekk pictfuh is de next strike.
is reached. In the meantime, all Guyanese should get down on their knees and pray that this newest wave of infection subsides as quickly as it emerged. Because the government has ran out of ideas
on what to do and is hoping on the vaccines to do the trick. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Monday February 01, 2021
Kaieteur News
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Monday February 01, 2021
Kaieteur News
Magistrate issues arrest warrant for bogus CANU officer after no-show at court SERVICES
VACANCY
Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040
Workers for P.S.G.C.S Labourers, Cleaner, Maintenance worker, Semi- skilled labourer. Contact number 6157784, Mon- Fri 8am- 3pm
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1 Female kitchen assistant / 1 mature female 25-40yrs livein, knowledge of creole foods 675-2550/ 656-9313 Female cleaner office & home call 642-9823 One clerk for Eccles office English & Mathematics, grade 1 or 2 Email application to techserigy@yahoo.com PITMENAND SERVICEMEN for inteior location. Application must be experienced. Call 618-2020
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Business place on the one mile public road (Tudor's) Winsar Linden Tel#4445883/ 675-7667 LAND FOR SALE Mining land for sale - 6827983 Kururpung river Gold & Diamond Direct Road & River access Inland creek VEHICLE FOR SALE Toyota Fortuner 2012 model G$11.9 Million. automatic, Low Mileage (40,000 km) Tel#660-0192, 233-5859, 6885554
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T
he man who pre tended to be a member of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) and attempted to arrest two civilians, failed to appear in court on Friday last. As a result, the court has issued an arrest warrant for him. The defendant, Kevin McDonald, 37, a security guard of Haslington, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was arrested on January 20, 2021, but was later released on station bail. He was charged and was scheduled to appear in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Senior Magistrate, Leron Daly on Friday for two counts of abduction. However, when the matter was called, McDonald was not at court and an arrest warrant was subsequently issued for him. According to a police report, on January 19, 2021, McDonald allegedly tried to arrest a coconut vendor, Ryan Gonsalves, 26, in the vicinity of Robb and Alexander Streets. Gonsalves told the police that at around 13: 45hrs, McDonald pulled up alongside him in a white Toyota Premio motorcar, claimed that he is a CANU officer, grabbed him, and took out a handcuff. Luckily, the coconut vendor managed to resist and escaped. But that was not McDonald’s first attempt to
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arrest a civilian under false pretense. Kaieteur News had reported that McDonald had tried to arrest another individual claiming that he is wanted for narcotics. In a Facebook post made by one of the victim’s friend, Raj Persaud, the individual stated that the incident took place on Middle and Thomas Streets, Georgetown. Persaud detailed that the man pulled up beside his friend in a white tinted Premio motorcar, and identified himself as a CANU officer. Persaud stated that McDonald told his friend that he was wanted for narcotics and instructed him to enter the car, insisting that he accompany him to the Brickdam Police Station. However, Persaud said that his friend refused to comply and asked McDonald to present an ID. This annoyed McDonald, who then tried to force his friend into the car but two police ranks on motorbikes pulled up at the same time. After seeing the police officers, McDonald entered his car and drove off. The ranks however gave chase and cornered him. He was subsequently arrested and taken into custody. Persaud also mentioned in his post that when they arrived
Suspect, Kevin McDonald.
at the police station there was another individual (presumably Gonsalves) making a report. He further stated that the individual positively identi-
fied McDonald as someone who tried to rob him while posing as a CANU officer. Persons have also labeled McDonald as “a well-known thief.”
Govt. defends reopening of bars at it is intended to avoid 40% capacity - Says bankruptcy, foreclosure
During his Presidential Briefing on Saturday, His Excellency, Dr. Mohammed Irfaan Ali, defended the government’s decision to reopen bars at a 40% capacity. In the Official Gazette of COVID-19 measures for the month of February which was published on Friday last, it was stated that bars are permitted to open between the hours of 04:00 am to 09:30 pm strictly at a 40 percent capacity. Before the amendment was made in the gazette, bars were prohibited from opening since March last year. During his briefing, the President was questioned about the government’s decision to reopen bars when the country recorded over 1,200 infections from the virus in just 30 days. In his response, he stated that the government was tasked with finding a balance as it relates to ensuring that safety is practiced to prevent the spread of the virus while ensuring the sustainability of businesses. He even stated that the government was
coming under tremendous pressure and had to reduce certain measures for small, medium and even some largesized businesses for them to properly operate. Adding to that, he said that the government had to decide whether they would subject businesses to bankruptcy and foreclosure or find means to have economic activity continue with minimum risk of exposure. According to Ali, industry-standard requires a business to have at least 35 percent capacity to cover its overhead cost. He expressed that the bars will reopen in a safe manner that allows social distancing, while adding the government also has teams going out to verify what number accounts for 40 percent of the establishments’ capacity. The officials will also be placing the number of persons allowed in the establishment on their doors and will be checking to ensure there is compliance.
Kaieteur News understands that the Guyana Tourism Authority has been given the responsibility of monitoring the bars and restaurants conducting indoor dining. Breach of the new measures would see these businesses being shut down for one month. Just recently, restaurants were given approvals for indoor dining at a 40 percent capacity in an amendment made to the gazette earlier this month. For the new month, the restriction on private parties and social activities remains as well as the restriction on recreational activities at rivers, creeks, beaches and swimming pools. The measures have not indicated whether nightclubs are allowed to reopen but, the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, had noted that the government was receiving many requests from nightclub owners. He noted however, that nightclubs are to remain closed.
Monday February 01, 2021
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ExxonMobil only needs 5 oil vessels to produce a million barrels of oil per day By Kemol King If ExxonMobil is allowed to continue with its current pace of development, it will only need five Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels to meet production capacity of a million barrels of oil per day in the Stabroek block. This would significantly surpass the company’s current Stabroek block production rate target. In its September 30 statement announcing it would proceed with the Payara development, ExxonMobil said last year, “The 18 discoveries on the block to date have established the potential for at least five FPSO vessels producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2026.” So far, ExxonMobil has operationalised one approved development, Liza Phase One. The nameplate capacity for the FPSO operating there, the Liza Destiny, is 120,000 barrels of oil per day. Its produc-
tion level has been below that amount for a significant portion of time between first oil in December, 2019 and today, due to issues with the gas compressor system for the oil
Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Hess Corporation, Gregory Hill said during a January 27 earnings call that the Liza Destiny has been producing at or above name-
Table shows estimated nameplate production of five FPSOs in the Stabroek block ship. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had last year slashed ExxonMobil’s production to keep flaring levels low, while ExxonMobil worked on repairing the defective equipment. After it reported fixing the equipment in December, 2020, flaring was reduced to pilot levels – the minimum level of flaring required to maintain a safe operation – and the company’s production ramped up.
plate capacity since mid-December. He said that the vessel had been steadily producing about 127,000 barrels a day in the week leading up to the call. Hill also said that ExxonMobil has planned a third quarter shutdown at the Liza Destiny to evaluate and pursue options to increase the operation’s nameplate capacity. The Liza Phase One operation targets 450 million barrels of oil.
Region Four accounts for 38 of 60 new COVID-19 infections Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) accounted for 38
of the 60 new COVID-19 infections reported by the Ministry of Health via its daily dashboard update yesterday. According to the dashboard, Regions One and Two
were the only regions recording no new cases. The new infections increase the COVID-19 case toll to 7,641. The dashboard also showed five patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit, 812 in home isolation, 57
in institutional isolation and 14 in institutional quarantine. The total number of recoveries has increased to 6,591 with 21 new recoveries recorded yesterday. Additionally, the COVID19 death toll remains at 176 deaths.
The second approved operation is Liza Phase Two. Scheduled for first oil next year, the operation will utilize the Liza Unity FPSO, which is being constructed in Singapore with a nameplate capacity of 220,000 barrels of oil per day. It targets 600 million barrels. The third approved operation is Payara. It is scheduled for first oil in 2024, utilizing the Prosperity FPSO, which is designed to produce 220,000 barrels of oil per day, just like the Liza Unity. It targets 500 million barrels. ExxonMobil and its Stabroek block partners anticipate that they will submit a field development plan (FDP) to the government of
Guyana for approval, by the end of the year. Chief Operating Officer of Hess Corporation, Gregory Hill, said last Wednesday that this would be for ExxonMobil’s fourth intended development in the block, at the Yellowtail-1 well. The operation is expected to have a nameplate capacity of 220,000 barrels a day. The Yellowtail-1 well is estimated to have 300 million barrels of oil. These four developments would have a combined nameplate capacity of 780,000 barrels per day and more, once ExxonMobil completes its infrastructural revisions at the Liza Destiny. Furthermore, a fifth FPSO with the same nameplate capacity as the three before it,
would take the total daily production in the Stabroek block to 1,000,000 barrels. ExxonMobil’s aspirations for the Stabroek block do not end there. ExxonMobil’s Global Vice President of Deepwater Projects, Jayme Meier, told the Rio Oil & Gas 2020 digital conference in December that the company sees the potential for 7-10 FPSOs in the block. The current administration does not appear willing to stand in the way of such rapid development. Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said that he is in support of aggressive production of Guyana’s reserves before demand wanes during the energy transition.
Police constable shoots colleague in leg over missing slippers Injured, David Lampkin.
In custody, Corinth Corbin.
A police constable is now nursing a gunshot wound to his leg, while his colleague is in custody following a shooting incident yesterday morning over a missing pair of slippers. The injured rank has been identified as Constable 23337, David Lampkin, and the suspect has been identified as, Constable 24885, Corinth Corbin. According to a brief police report, the incident happened around 05:01hrs at the
Brickdam Police Station. Kaieteur News was informed that both ranks were on duty when an argument ensued over the missing slippers. It is reported that Corbin then whipped out his service weapon that he was armed with and shot Lampkin to his left leg. An alarm was raised and Lampkin was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he is currently receiving treatment, while Corbin was placed in custody.
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GOVT. TO AGGRESSIVELY PURSUE... From page 15 and the elderly. Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, who was also present at the briefing, said that according to experts the government will need to immunize as close to 80 per cent of the population in order to achieve herd immunity. He shared that the training of health officials which includes nurses with the necessary experience and other health care workers has already commenced. In total, 35 teams will be trained. Additionally, he informed that those who receive the vaccines will be kept in isolation
for a short period so that they can be observed for any adverse effects of the virus. Persons who are vaccinated will also be required to carry a vaccination card. As it relates to proper storage for the vaccines, the Health Minister revealed that 14 storage sites across the country are currently being expanded and the government is working assiduously to procure freezers for their storage. The President also took the opportunity to inform citizens that they will not be forced to take the vaccine but, he is encouraging them to take it so that the country can achieve immunity.
DIGICEL CELEBRATES 14 YEARS... From pag 14 “Shake to Win” in the MyDigicel app and get a chance to win one of 14 laptops. In an invited comment, Gregory Dean, the CEO of the company said, “As we celebrate this milestone, our focus remains on our customers and we hope customers enjoy taking part and winning millions with us.” Since the liberalization of the telecommunications network, Dean said that the company has committed over $5B to service expansions and improvements.
He added, “We have completed to date LTE expansions in Bartica, Linden, Port Kaituma, Mahdia, Kwakwani, Potaro Riverain communities, Berbice and Essequibo to support our Prime Bundles and digital launch. This adds to our LTE services in Georgetown and surrounding areas.” Dean said that Digicel Guyana is eagerly awaiting the approval of various licences, permissions and spectrum allocations to expand its service offerings and coverage in the coming months.
Monday February 01, 2021
Opposition, EPA silent on Exxon’s increased... From page 12 is not host to its first operation or experience in the oil industry. He went on to state that these types of disruptions are easily avoidable and cannot be blamed on the manufacturer, especially when it comes to brand new equipment. He reminded that Exxon is aware that it owns the responsibility to ensure manufacturing is done in full accord with the design specifications, through a rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control Plan, which it has to oversee. The EPA had emphasized requirement to Exxon several times, Dr. Adams recalled, even though this should have been second nature for a company of this stature. “They cannot wait until the equipment arrives to fig-
ure out that the wires are aligned incorrectly, or the seals are made of the wrong material, when they have done this numerous times before. Why is Guyana different?!” Dr Adams admonished. In light of the foregoing, the former EPA Head indicated that the Government must decide whether Exxon’s performance to date, merits its trust to protect the health, environment and wellbeing of the Guyanese people. “And let me add that just a slap on the wrist [will be the fine for] for the excess flaring. This is a joke, because this will only be a minuscule cost [when compared to] their business [earnings].” Dr. Adams indicated that it is his hope that this unfor-
tunate event will again highlight the urgency for the government to provide the resources to properly equip the EPA with the necessary capacity for the oversight of these operations, including 24/7 on site presence and investment in training and recruitment of specialized requisite skills. Kaieteur News understan ds that these are al-
ready incorporated into a plan developed between the EPA, Department of Energy (DoE) and the World Bank. He further indicated that he also holds optimism that the government will ensure that the design flaws in the Liza Destiny permit and FPSO are not present in the Liza Two and Payara developments.
Monday February 01, 2021
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NBA roundup: Blazers win on last-second Damian Lillard trey Damian Lillard made a 3pointer as time expired to give the Portland Trail Blazers a 123-122 win over the host Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. Teammates mobbed Lillard after his step-back shot over the outstretched arms of Bulls forward Lauri Markkanen. Lillard finished with 44 points on 15-for-26 shooting, including 8-for-17 from beyond the arc. Enes Kanter scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds for Portland, which snapped a two-game skid and avenged a loss against the Bulls earlier in the season. Gary Trent Jr. finished with 18 points for the Blazers. Markkanen had 31 points and six rebounds to lead Chi-
cago. Zach LaVine added 26 points and seven rebounds. Los Angeles Lakers 96 Boston Celtics 95 Anthony Davis had 27 points and 14 rebounds in his return from a quad injury, LeBron James scored 21 and Los Angeles survived a late rally by host Boston. Kemba Walker missed what would have been a game-winning shot for the Celtics with 2.7 seconds left, and Daniel Theis whiffed on the follow up as the Lakers avoided blowing a sevenpoint lead with 1:40 remaining. Montrezl Harrell added 16 points for Los Angeles, which snapped a two-game losing streak. Davis had missed the team’s matchup in Detroit two nights prior. Jayson Tatum
had 30 points and Jaylen Brown scored 28 for Boston, which lost for the fifth time in its last seven games. Miami Heat 105 - Sacramento Kings 104 Jimmy Butler, returning from a 10-game COVID-19protocol absence, scored 20 of his game-high-tying 30 points in the first half as host Miami defeated Sacramento. Sacramento had its threegame winning streak snapped despite a productive night from De’Aaron Fox, who had 17 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter. He also had a team-high six assists. Sacramento’s Buddy Hield had 18 points but just three in the second half. Bam Adebayo had 18
points and a game-high 13 rebounds for the Heat, who snapped a five-game losing streak, which had been the longest active skid in the NBA. Butler, who passed 10,000 career points early in the game, had a game-high eight assists, seven rebounds and no turnovers in 33 minutes. Houston Rockets 126 New Orleans Pelicans 112 Christian Wood scored 27 points, Victor Oladipo added 20 and they led a second-quarter scoring burst as visiting Houston won its fifth consecutive game by beating New Orleans. Wood and Oladipo each had 16 points during a 48point second quarter that came a night after the Pelicans withstood a 44-point second
quarter to defeat Milwaukee. John Wall finished with 15 points, Eric Gordon had 14 and Jae’Sean Tate added 13 for the Rockets. Zion Williamson scored 26, Brandon Ingram and Eric Bledsoe added 15 each, Nickeil Alexander-Walker had 13 and Jaxson Hayes and rookie Kira Lewis Jr. had 10 each to lead the Pelicans. Charlotte Hornets 126 Milwaukee Bucks 114 LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward each scored 27 points and host Charlotte squandered a 20-point lead but recovered to defeat Milwaukee. Malik Monk tallied 18 points and Graham and Terry Rozier both finished with 12 points for Charlotte, which defeated the Indiana Pacers a
night earlier. Miles Bridges added 11 points. Ball, a rookie, had nine assists, while teammate Cody Zeller hauled in 15 boards. It took plenty to offset Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 34-point, 18-rebound, nineassist outing for the Bucks, who have given up huge point totals in consecutive losses. Antetokounmpo shot 12for-19 from the field. Jrue Holiday had 21 points and Khris Middleton added 18 points for the Bucks. In other results: Memphis Grizzlies 129 San Antonio Spurs 112 Phoenix Suns 111 - Dallas Mavericks 105 Golden State Warriors 118 - Detroit Pistons 91 (Field Level Media)
BCB secures sponsorship for three... Monday February 01, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You should be especially efficient in whatever work you need to get done today, Aries. Your natural eye for detail is especially sharp. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Your dreams might be especially intense now, and some could even be prophetic. You may have recently dreamed of an old friend you haven't seen for a while. GEMINI (May 21–June 20)
Social events involving both old and new friends could prove especially satisfying at this time, Gemini. You will be able to catch up with those you haven't seen for a while. CANCER(June21–July22) Today you might decide to get some annoying but necessary chores done, Cancer. You have the energy and stamina to finish them and probably will, although you may go crazy from boredom in the meantime. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Some information that you've been seeking for a long time might finally be unEarthed today through your diligent efforts, Leo. This is going to increase your ability to take on whatever challenges you're planning to address. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Virgo, some volatile emotional matters that may have reared their heads over the past few days could finally be settled to the satisfaction of all involved. The subject of money may come up.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Some solid, honest communication between you and those you love is likely to clear up some confusion. Roles are more clearly defined, emotional problems clarified, and chores are more fairly allotted. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)
Today you might feel the need to get as much done as possible. You're especially energetic, Scorpio, and you have stamina and focus, and so you should be able to accomplish whatever you want. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You might need to do some of the less exciting chores involved with creative or artistic projects today, Sagittarius. You're in the right frame of mind to get them done. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You may have let household tasks and chores go for a few days, Capricorn, so today you might decide to get them all done at once. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Some letters and calls that you may have agreed to do for a group you're affiliated with might have to be taken care of today, Aquarius. Don't be surprised if you spend a lot of your time on the phone. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may need to take care of paperwork related to financial matters today, Pisces. You will pay bills, make deposits, or balance checkbooks.
From page 25 made shortly. Foster, who is spearheading the BCB Marketing effort, disclosed that the board has in one month obtained sponsorship for twenty four tournaments and that the four internal zones tournaments would be followed by a countywide Under 19, 50 Overs, which would be sponsored by the New York Business Group.
The main aims of the four internal zone tournaments would be to encourage youth players to join clubs in their areas, to identify promising players for the BCB Elite Coaching programme and to allow different clubs across Berbice to win BCB titles. Foster hailed the cooperation of Region 6 Regional Executive Officer Navindra Persaud, who he hailed as a true friend of cricket development.
Persaud played a major role in obtaining the sponsorship for the pro-active board. He also expressed thanks to Mr. Jagdeo, Mr. Itwaru, Mr. Ahmad and Mr. Uborn France for their supp
Broadway Hotel ... From page 25 said. “The qualification process for the FIFA World Cup requires a huge allocation of resources and cannot be managed without the help, commitment and generosity of our private sector partners.” “We are, therefore, grateful for thus timely contribution, which will help us prepare the team in the best way possible for its World Cup journey after such a long layoff due to the pandemic. We hope that many other partners will also come on board to join us on this amazing journey as the whole nation gets behind the Golden Jaguars this year.” Domestic-based players are currently in training five days a week at the GFF National Training Centre, under the supervision of Head Coach Marcio Maximo, as the squad seeks to build fitness and sharpness ahead of its first World Cup fixture against Trinidad and Tobago on March 25th. “If this contribution helps a young player to move one step closer to the realisation of his dream to represent the Golden Arrowhead - then this would be a tremendous source of satisfaction for the management of Broadway Hotel,” said Peters. Banks DIH have offered water and energy drinks and Muneshwers have provided health andsanitisation equipment to support the Golden Jaguars’ preparations at the National TrainingCentre.
Kaieteur News
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Monday February 01, 2021
Ganguly discharged from hospital Messi’s €555m Barcelona contract ‘leaked’, biggest deal in sports history after second heart surgery SportsMax - Lionel
AFP - Indian cricket great Sourav Ganguly was discharged from hospital yesterday after undergoing a second heart operation in a month, with doctors optimistic that he will make a full recovery. The 48-year-old, who now heads the country’s powerful cricket board, was admitted to hospital in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal state, on Wednesday after complaining of chest pains.It was the second time this year that the former batsman had to be hospitalised, after being admitted in early January when he suffered a heart attack while exercising. He underwent an angioplasty and had a stent inserted to open up his clogged arteries. During his second stint in
Former Indian cricket captain and president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly gestures as he leaves Apollo hospital in Kolkata on January 31, 2021. hospital, two more stents were inserted, doctors said. “Ganguly is absolutely OK,” one of the doctors treating Ganguly, Saptarshi Basu, told AFP as the former left-handed opener left hospital.“His heart is very strong. We hope that he can resume his normal activities
in a few weeks.” Ganguly was feted by hundreds of youths outside the hospital and at his Kolkata home when he was discharged. They threw rose petals at his car and shouted: “Welcome Dada (elder brother). We are with you.” G a n g u l y w a s unanimously elected president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, the sport’s most powerful body in the country, in 2019. He had retired from Test cricket in 2008 having accumulated 7,212 runs including 16 centuries — his first made at Lord’s on debut. He also scored 11,363 r u n s i n 3 11 o n e - d a y internationals.
Messi’s Barcelona contract is the biggest in the history of sport, landing the superstar forward more than €555million over four years. That is the astonishing claim made by El Mundo, with the Spanish newspaper reporting yesterday that it had obtained details of the deal signed by the 33-yearold in 2017. The mega-money agreement, which expires in June this year, would see Messi receive up to €555,237,619 across four seasons, providing a number of conditions are met. Messi was at the centre of a major transfer storm when he attempted to force a move away from Camp Nou last August, but was left frustrated when Barca refused to sanction an exit. Amid a fraught presidential election campaign, it has remained apparent that all is not well at the Catalan club, whose financial worries are cast in a fresh light after El Mundo’s stunning front-page revelations, with the outlet claiming to have laid hands on a copy of “the most sought-after document”. In addition to annual earnings in excess of €138m – dependent on some variables – the report says Messi received a renewal fee of over €115m, and a loyalty bonus just shy of €78m. The Argentina international, who also
Lionel Messi
rakes in millions in image rights, is said to have earned more than €500m from the eye-watering deal so far. Barca’s accounts for the 2019-20 season showed gross debt had reached €820m, with the coronavirus pandemic having further dented their outlook. Against the backdrop of those financial woes, Messi’s desire to leave, and with a fractious presidential
election not due to be concluded until March, Barca are still off the pace in LaLiga despite a run of four consecutive top-flight wins. Ronald Koeman’s side are 10 points behind leaders Atletico Madrid ahead of Sunday’s visit of Athletic Bilbao. Messi, who was red carded for the first time in his career earlier this month, has contributed 15 goals in all competitions.
Da Silva, Reifer knocks headline West... From page 23 got two hits in the middle, while his bowlers, too, got to bowl enough overs. He was especially happy with how Rahkeem Cornwall, who took a five-for in the first innings, and Bonner performed. “I am very happy. I thought the guys got a good blow,” Brathwaite said. “The batters got two chances to bat. Some guys got good scores. Fast bowlers and spinners got to bowl in the second innings
where we could get 29 overs in. So I am quite happy. We got ten wickets in the first innings, which was good. I think the guys are ready to go. “I was very impressed [with Cornwall]. He bowled well, created a lot of pressure with dot balls. I know Rahkeem’s ability. I knew he was always a quality offspinner. It is good to see him in these conditions. I know he will do well in this Test. “It was very good to see
Bonner get to a nice score. I thought John batted well in both innings. I don’t want to single out guys. Everyone is working really hard. I am happy with all the batters. They are confident, so we have to enjoy it out there.” Scores: West Indians 257 (Brathwaite 85, Rishad 5-75) and 291 (Bonner 80, Campbell 68, Mukidul 4-59) drew with BCB XI 160 (Naim 45, Cornwall 5-47) and 63 for 2 (Yasir 33*, Shadman 23*, Reifer 2-7).
Windies look to big unit Cornwall... From page 24 single out guys. Everyone is working really hard. I am happy with all the batters. They are confident, so we have to enjoy it out there.” Brathwaite will be
leading a weakened West Indies team against Bangladesh after several players, including regular captain Jason Holder opted out of the tour due to Coronavirus outbreak. In the ODI series, they were whitewashed 3-0.
Brathwaite also led the West Indies in their previous Test series in Bangladesh in 2018 when they lost both Tests. The second Test of the series will be held in Dhaka on February 11-15.
Kaieteur News
Monday February 01, 2021
Da Silva, Reifer knocks headline West Indians’ effort on last day in draw
Natoya Goule wins 800m at Bob Pollock invite as Natoya Goule Jamaican collegians shine on NCAA indoor circuit SportsMax - Natoya Goule picked up another win on the indoor circuit this season when she sped to victory on the 800m at the Clemson Bob Pollock Invitational on Saturday. The 2019 World Championships finalist cruised to a time of 2:01.07 finishing well clear of Sarah Hendrick of Kennesaw State, who crossed the finish line in 2:05.64. Andrea Foster of Clemson was third in 2:06.15. The performance capped wins for Jamaican athletes at the two-day meet that began on Friday. Trishauna Hemmings won yet another 60m sprint hurdles race, this time in 8.12 in a blanket-finish over Destinee Rocker (8.13). Jeanine Williams was third in 8.20.
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The outcome might well have been different had 2015 World Champion Danielle Williams had not been disqualified for a false start. The 2019 World Championships bronze medalist had shaken off months of rust to win her preliminary heat in 7.97s. The men’s event went to Clemson’s LaFranz Campbell in 7.85. Filip Demsar was second in 7.93 while Tyson Williams was third in 8.02. At the Texas Tech Invitational at Lubbock, Texas on Friday, Charokee Young won the 400m in 52.64 in a Texas A&M 1-23.Syaira Richardson won the silver medal in 53.28 while Jania Martin (53.59) was third.
ESPNcricinfo - A few more runs on the board would have delighted the West Indians at the end of their three-day game against the BCB XI at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chattogram. They were placed on a precarious 190 for 7 before useful lower-order contributions from Joshua Da Silva (46) and Raymon Reifer (49*) saved them, after half-centuries from John Campbell and Nkrumah Bonner on the second day. Eventually set a target of 389, the hosts finished on 63 for 2 in 29 overs in the fourth innings. The West Indians lost No. 3 Bonner (80) early in the day before Da Silva and Reifer’s partnership. Da Silva struck three fours in his over two-hour stay, while Reifer was unbeaten on 49 off 94 balls, having hit five fours and a six. The duo added 82 runs for the eighth wicket in 28.3 overs. BCB XI seamer Mukidul Islam took four wickets while Khaled Ahmed picked
Nkrumah Bonner and John Campbell bump fists during their 129run stand. (AFP via Getty Images)
up a three-for. Saif Hassan and Towhid Hridoy took three wickets between them. In reply, the hosts lost Saif and Mohammad Naim to Reifer, before Shadman Islam (23*) and Yasir Ali (33*) took them to stumps without the loss of any further wickets. The likes of Saif, Shadman and Yasir would not have taken much confidence from this game. It remains unclear whether Saif or Shadman will open with Tamim Iqbal in the first Test, starting February 3 across
town, at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. For the West Indians, their captain Kraigg Brathwaite, didn’t bat in the second innings but he would be pleased with the efforts of Bonner, Campbell, Da Silva a n d R e i f e r. J e r m a i n e Blackwood, Shayne Moseley and Kyle Mayers would, however, look to get more confidence from the nets. After play, Brathwaite said that he was satisfied with the fact that his batsmen (Continued on page 22
Drayton register Medina Spirit wins Lewis, gives win on day one The first round-robin matches of the 2021 National senior Chess Championships got underway on Saturday at the National Stadium, Providence, where defending champion; FIDE Master Anthony Drayton had a successful start to his title defence with a win against Rai Sharma. Drayton described the matchup as not difficult even though it finished in 46 moves. He explained that, “In light of the new chess movie Queen’s Gambit, I choose the very same weapon as my first game opening choice and by the eighth move my opponent gave up the Bishop pair and blundered a pawn at the very next move…after that it was smooth sailing until the game finished.” “It was only after the game during revision I realised that I too made a critical blunder at move 16 which could have cost me the game by losing a piece but luckily for me, my opponent was playing very
fast and didn’t capitalise on it.”“In the coming matches I will have to keep my focus to be able to regain my title because the other players wouldn’t be so kind to miss an opportunity like that,” Drayton mentioned. In the other two completed games on Saturday, Taffin Khan got past veteran Errol Tiwari, while Davion Mars and Loris Nathoo drew their match.Khan employed the closed Sicilian variation and the game was equally poised until move 16 where Tiwari missed a combination that led to him losing his Queen. And, after that, Khan just followed basic chess to complete the victory.The game between We n d e l l M e u s a a n d Glenford Corlette that was scheduled for Saturday will be played tomorrow instead.The tournament is being coordinated by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) and has been approved by the National Covid-19 task force. (Calvin Chapman)
Baffert a Ky Derby hopeful
ARCADIA, Calif. (AP) — Medina Spirit led all the way and fought off two challengers late to win the $100,000 Robert Lewis Stakes by a neck Saturday at Santa Anita and give trainer Bob Baffert a Kentucky
Derby hopeful. Ridden by Abel Cedillo, Medina Spirit ran 1 1/16 miles in 1:46.26 on a dirt track listed as good after 2.4 inches of rain fell through Friday.Medina Spirit paid $4, $2.80 and $2.20 as the
even-money favorite in a field of six. The colt earned 10 qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby on May 1. Roman Centurian returned $7.60 and $3.80 at 11-1 odds. Hot Rod Charlie was another nose back in
Medina Spirit and jockey Abel Cedillo, inside, hold off Roman Centurian, outside, with Juan Hernandez, and Hot Rod Charlie, middle, with Joel Rosario, to win the Grade III, $100,000 Robert B. Lewis Stakes horse race. (Benoit Photo via AP)
third and paid $2.60 to show as the 5-2 second choice. Baffert-trained Spielberg finished fourth, 11 lengths behind Hot Rod Charlie. Cedillo sent Medina Spirit to the early lead before the colt was pressed on the backside by Wipe the Slate. Leading by a length at the top of the stretch, Medina Spirit was challenged by Hot Rod Charlie and Roman Centurian in a three-horse duel to the finish.Baffert said Medina Spirit’s effort reminded him of Silver Charm, his 1997 Kentucky Derby winner. The trainer earned his ninth victory in the Lewis. “He had every reason to give it up late in the stretch when those horses came to him. I thought he was beat,” Baffert said. “I thought they were going to get by and he wouldn’t let them by, he fought on.” Medina Spirit was sold for $35,000 at public auction in September. The victory, worth $60,000, increased his career earnings to $95,200.
Kaieteur News
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Monday February 01, 2021
Concacaf Qualifiers for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Consistent attendance and commitment being shown by players as training motors on – Máximo By Franklin Wilson As the clock counts down to G u y a n a ’s c l a s h w i t h Trinidad and Tobago on March 25th in the Twin Island Republic which will kick off this nation’s quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the home based players have been going through the paces five days per week (Monday to Thursday & Saturday mornings) under the astute supervision of Senior Men’s National Team (SMNT) Head Coach, Márcio Máximo and his Technical Staff. Drawn in Group F alongside Saint Kitts and Nevis, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas, the ‘Golden Jaguars’ will be aiming, though it might be tough, to kick off their campaign with a good result against old rivals, the ‘Soca Warriors’. Conscious of the uphill but not insurmountable task at hand, Máximo has informed that the attitude of the players towards training despite the challenges brought on by the covid-19 pandemic has been admirable. Ever since training commenced three weeks ago, the twenty-seven players, spanning four generations inclusive of U17s have not missed a day and have been making steady strides week after week.
The average age of the team is 22 years old. Whilst fitness is one of the main pillars, the dedicated staff has also been zooming in on the tactical and technical aspects of preparations to ensure the team is in pristine shape for combat. ”These players have been reacting very well, of course they are not at the same level that we left before but they are improving very quickly. There is total concentration and you can see and feel the desire to do very well,” Máximo noted whilst reminding that the potential of the team is very exciting in terms of growth. With regards to competitive practice in the form of friendly matches, Máximo informed that plans are in train to secure two matches in early March all things being equal in terms of covid-19 challenges which continues to be the biggest challenge for all the nations. ”We are working on securing matches but it is not conformed as yet. We hope to have them here to promote the game but as you know, many countries have restrictions for quarantine because of covid19 when you travel so it is not easy but we are still trying.” Additionally, all the
Former National player now ‘Golden Jaguars’ Assistant Coach, Charles ‘Lily’ Pollard chats with his charges following a recent training session. national team coaches from Under-15 up are involved in the training sessions as they too learn from the Brazilian tacticians, Máximo informed. ”All national coaches are involved, we also have regular meetings with them every week utilising the available technology plus they come to the training at least twice each week which is very important for us.” He divulged that with this approach, there would be consistency in terms of training, tactically and technically with all the national teams so that ultimately when they come to the senior level, everyone would be on the same page.
Leading ‘Golden Jaguars’ Tacticians! Márcio Máximo (Head Coach and Wilson Toledo (Assistant)
”This is the medium and long term programme that we
have in place and we are very optimistic that we are going
to be a force to reckon with in the Caribbean and beyond.”
Windies look to big unit Cornwall for spin edge against Bangladesh
AFP - Stand-in West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite admitted yesterday that giant offspinner Rakheem Cornwall will be key to his weakened team’s hopes of defeating Bangladesh in their two-Test series which starts this week. Cornwall, who stands at 1.96m (6ft 5ins) and weighs in around 140kg (22st), has only played three Tests in his career. But Asian pitches suit him — he returned figures of 7-75 in a one-off game against Afghanistan in Lucknow in 2019. “I know Rakheem’s ability. I knew he was always a quality off-spinner. It is good to see him in these conditions. I know he will do well in this Test,” said
Brathwaite. “As a bowling unit we have to stick to the plans, bowl to the field. Create pressure with dot balls. Wickets will come.” Cornwall is believed to be the heaviest man to have played Test cricket. He warmed up for the Test series, which starts on Wednesday at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chittagong, with a first innings haul of 5-47 as the West Indies drew a three-day warm-up game against a Bangladesh Cricket Board XI.Brathwaite was also one of the top performers in the match for the visiting side, hitting 85 off 187 balls in team’s first innings total of 257 runs. West Indies bowled out
the hosts for 160 to take a 97run first innings lead. Nkrumah Bonner made 80 and John Campbell added 68 to his 44 from the first innings as the West Indies scored 291 runs in the second innings to set up a target of 389 runs for the BCB XI. Brathwaite and his BCB XI counterpart Nurul Hasan agreed a draw after the home team reached 63-2 in the second innings on the third day and final day. Cornwall didn’t bowl in the second innings as the tourists opted to keep him under wraps. “It was very good to see Bonner get to a nice score. I thought John batted well in both innings,” added Brathwaite.“I don’t want to (Continued on page 22)
Big unit: West Indies’ Rahkeem Cornwall.
Kaieteur News
Monday February 01, 2021
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BCB secures sponsorship Broadway Hotel donates, urges for three inter zone Under 19 others to support Golden Jaguars’ World Cup campaign Knockout tournaments - Region Six REO praised for support of Berbice Cricket The Berbice Cricket Board as part of its ongoing efforts to invest heavily in youth development has agreed to host four inter zone Under 19 Knockout Cricket tournaments across Berbice. The Zones would be Upper Corentyne (including Black Bush Polder}, Central/ Lower Corentyne, New Amsterdam/Canje/East Bank and West Berbice. The Under 19 tournaments would be one of three tournaments that would be played in each of the sub-zones as part of an aggressive cricket development programme. On Thursday last, the President of the Board, Hilbert Foster received sponsorship from two sponsors for the Upper Corentyne and New Amsterdam/East Bank Berbice tournaments, while an overseas based Guyanese has committed to sponsoring another in June for teams in the Lower Corentyne area. Contractor Tevindra Jagdeo of Premium Asphalt Inc would be sponsoring the New Amsterdam/Canje/East Bank Berbice tournament. Among the teams expected to play in that tournament would be Kendall’s Union, Rose Hall Canje, Tucber Park, Mt. Sinai, Guymine, Edinburgh and East Bank Blazers. The matches would be played at the Canje, Edinburgh and Kendall’s Union venues with the final set for the Edinburgh Ground. Contractor Mohamed Ahmad of Mohamed Ahmad Construction Ltd is the sponsor for the Upper
Ricky Itwaru
Corentyne leg of the tournaments. Teams to play would include No73, Scottsburg, Skeldon and Radha Krishna Academy. Meanwhile, overseas based Guyanese Rickey Itwaru has agreed to sponsor the Lower Corentyne tournament which would be played in June at the Albion Sports Complex.
Itwaru, a certified special needs teacher based in the United States, stated that he was very impressed by the development of Berbice Cricket and that is the main reason why he contacted the BCB to sponsor the tournament. The BCB is currently on the verge of clinching the fourth sponsorship for the
Mr. Latchman Chandradat hands over Premium Asphalt sponsorship to BCB PRO Simon Naidu. The teams to play in the tournament would be Albion, Rose Hall Town Pepsi and Port Mourant.
We s t B e r b i c e s u b association and an announcement would be (Continued on page 21)
T
he owner of Broadway Hotel has urged more private sector organisations and companies to support the Golden Jaguars’ FIFA World Cup campaign, as the hotel made a financial contribution to the squad’s preparations for its first qualification matches set for March. Broadway Hotel, situated on Broad Street in Georgetown, joins a growing number of private sector partners such as Banks DIH and Muneshwers coming on board to support the Golden Jaguars as they prepare for the start of their World Cup campaign. “The Guyana Golden Jaguars are preparing for what will be a very difficult 2 0 2 2 Wo r l d C u p qualification campaign. I believe we all have a responsibility to help them in every way that we can and I am personally pleased to support the nation’s team,”
Broadway Hotel General Manager Junica Pluck presents their contribution to Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde.
said Broadway Hotel Managing Director Alepemo Peters. “I would like to encourage other corporate entities to support our Golden Jaguars in their quest to qualify for the FIFA 2022 World Cup.” The donation was made by Broadway Hotel General
Manager Junica Pluck and received by Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde. “On behalf of the players, staff and the GFF, I would like to say thank you to Broadway Hotel for supporting our national team at this exciting time,” Forde (Continued on page 21)
Da Silva, Reifer knocks headline West Indians’ effort on last day in draw
rt o p S Anthony Drayton (left) and Rai Sharma during their first round match on Saturday.
Joshua Da Silva (right) and Raymon Reifer leave the field after their unbeaten knock. (CWI)
Drayton register win on day one Golden Jaguars Fitness and Conditioning Coach Wilson Toledo has the full attention of his charges.
Consistent attendance and commitment being shown by players as training motors on-- Máximo Broadway Hotel donates, urges others to support Golden Jaguars’ World Cup campaign Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.