Kaieteur News

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Oil production Friday Edition NEWS ship explodes off Nigeria,10 dead - Guyana still to get full coverage insurance from Exxon AIETEUR

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

February 04, 2022 - Vol. 15 No.05

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 80,075

Opposition ready to support renegotiation of Exxon contract ...Govt says PSA is the worst crime committed against Guyanese

Govt. to improve PSA for CGX's latest discovery

Albouystown man remanded for murder of step-son Pigeons take over The protest continues for Kuru-Kururu Primary School change to ExxonMobil’s contract.

Lack of full coverage insurance exposes Guyana to financial bankruptcy- Patterson Our wealth and our resources have NO Race, NO Religion and NO Politics! @11:00hrs

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Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

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Lack of full coverage insurance exposes Guyana to financial bankruptcy - Patterson

By Gary Eleazar The fact that there are oil exploration and production activities underway in Guyana's Exclusive Economic Zone in the Stabroek and Other Blocks, the issue of binding full coverage insurance provided by the parent companies of the oil operators has for several years now been a sore point among stakeholders.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, had recently in lamenting the state of affairs, said government was looking to have the parent companies acknowledge responsibility for up to US$2B in the event of a catastrophic event such as an oil spill. The matter was again raised yesterday. This time as the Minister and Shadow Minister with responsibility for the Natural Resources Sector, Vickram Bharrat and David Patterson respectively, clashed on day four of the Budget Debate of the Estimated National Expenditure for this year.

The Alliance for Change (AFC) General Secretary and Member of Parliament (MP), Patterson, in his presentation to the debates, was unrelenting in his

criticism of the state of affairs.

According to Patterson, on assumption of office, the People's Progressive Party C i v i c ( P P P / C ) administration reversed the position that Guyana should be financially covered for any and all spills, to little or no coverage at all. “When they reversed the Agreement between the Coalition and Exxon for the company to obtain the maximum insurance coverage on the market with the remainder being covered by the three parent companies.”

According to Patterson, the limited insurance coverage, as against full or unlimited liability coverage “against all risks poses a most severe risk to Guyana, leaving us vulnerable to financial bankruptcy without the means to cleanup any oil spill. Not to mention the nation's exposure to lawsuits from bordering countries.”

To this end, he used the occasion to remind of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, which costed approximately US$70 billion, “and the environmental damage persists.” Patterson posited: “it is rather stunning that with the proposed increase in

production, the government is now talking about having Exxon obtain insurance to the value of $2 Billion.”

Such a position Patterson said, begs the question, “Did Exxon cancel the $2.5 Billion in private insurance that was put in place under the Coalition? Why would the government feel satisfied with only $2 Billion worth of liability coverage, when the BP spill in the Gulf of Mexico costed more than $70 Billion?”

Additionally he queried, “…if the government is satisfied with only the $2 Billion coverage, how would any costs over and above that be covered?”

Addressing another environmental issue emanating as a result of the oil operations offshore Guyana relates to the Flaring

by ExxonMobil from the Liza Destiny, Floating Production Storage Production and Offloading Vessel. To this end, he was adamant the law of the land is very clear when it comes to flaring. “First, Clause 3.6 of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Permits expressly prohibits flaring, with exceptions being made for flaring only during startup of the FPSO,

emergencies, or periods of maintenance.”

He reminded that the unexpected failure of Exxon's equipment at the beginning of operations prompted the Coalition government to take actions to stop such flaring, including severely reducing oil production, and revisions of the EPA Permits to ensure compliance with the law.

According to Patterson, on assumption of Office, “the PPP/C callously reversed the Zero Flaring Mandate.”

He contends that with this reversal, the PPP/C now gives Exxon the licence to flare any amount if they pay a fee of $45 USD per Tonne of carbon dioxide flared.

According to Patterson, “the PPP/C's declaration that the fine of $45 USD per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent emitted, is an improvement, is nothing but a laughable sham, giving Exxon the licence to flare.

Money talks, the environment suffers!!”

He noted too that what is most worrying was the recent statement by Exxon that it still has not fixed the flaring problem which has been ongoing since the start of operations more than two

years ago. “The government has total disregard for the nation's health, safety and the environment, which was made clear when government ministers continued parroting Exxon's position that Guyana is a carbon sink, so it has the capacity to take in more pollutants—this coming from a government that is also pushing a green agenda.”

Addressing another Environmental concern, Patterson also used his Budget Presentation to raise the matter of the dumping of produced/waste water into the Atlantic Ocean.

To this end, he informed the House that much like the issue of flaring, “…the PPP/C upon taking office, immediately reversed the coalition's zero dumping of produced water mandate developed.”

He told the House the original mandate was consistent with the World Bank's international standards that require reinjection, and not the dumping of this water, which is three times hotter than the ocean and contains oil, radioactive elements, mercury, lead, arsenic, and many other toxic chemicals.

“There is now a serious question surrounding the cause of the drop in fishing quantities offshore Guyana as it relates to this dumping of produced water.”

According to Patterson, “no one with any inkling of common sense would think that throwing all of those billions of gallons of hot, radioactive and toxic water into our clean oceans would not impact our fish life, and more egregious is the Government's nonchalant attitude towards a study that could find out what the impact is.”

He was adamant that the current administration's approach to the industry emphasizes that it is “more interested in prioritising monetary gains over protection of the environment, safety and health, which is an unnecessary and dangerous choice, since today's technology makes it commonplace for both environmental protection and monetary gains to be achieved at the same time, especially considering that Exxon is comfortably and willingly achieving these targets in other countries such as the United States.”

Yellowtail licence to be awarded in March - Jagdeo V Stabroek Block's 4th Project…

ice President, Bharrat Jagdeo revealed to members of the media yesterday that ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess Corporation and CNOOCL Petroleum Limited, could get their licence for the US$9B Yellowtail Project to be executed in the Stabroek Block by the end of next month.

The Vice President said there was the expectation that the review of the Field Development Plan and subsequent issuance of the environmental permit and licence would have been completed since December 2021. He said this did not occur as there were some setbacks. In spite of the internal challenges, Jagdeo said, “…We are working more, and we are anticipating the completion of everything by the end of March latest.

We have consultancies in place and the Ministry of

Natural Resources (in review mode).”Dr. Jagdeo said a draft licence is already worked out and a parallel process is being conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency for an authorization permit.

Kaieteur News reported last month that twelve companies, inclusive of two well established clients of Stabroek Block Operator, ExxonMobil, submitted bids to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) for the review and evaluation of the Field Development Plan for Exxon's fourth project –Yellowtail.

The companies and their bids are as follows: Infinity Services in collaboration with XWells Mexico – US$617,500; Orwell Offshore - US$617,650; MSI International -US$817,761; Endeavour Management –US$598,934; Future Energy Partners Limited -

US$901,482; IHS Global Inc.- US$1,493,502; Bayphase-US$423,360; RPS Energy Consultants Ltd. – US$494,000; Sunstone Energy Advisory Service –US$785,040; Sproule –US$661,440 and StratOil Energy Services –US$324,080.

Canadian firm, Sunstone Energy Advisory Services (SEAS) says it comprises some of the world's top experts while providing geoscience services for oil and gas investment and international growth.

Importantly, it boasts on its website of having key 25year-old relationships with ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC, the Stabroek Block operators. It also lists as one of its key achievements, work it has done on the Guyana Project (Discovery & Development) 2013-17 which led to the discovery of 10 Billion barrels of recoverable oil resources.

As for Bayphase, this is an international oil and gas consultancy which has decades of auditing experience but is a well known client of Exxon. It has previously been awarded contracts here and is based in the UK. TENDER DETAILS It was on January 8, last, that Kaieteur News published the government's request for financial and technical proposals from qualified firms to review the Yellowtail FDP. Yesterday was the closing date for submissions.

The project documents note that the duration of the assignment is expected to be 50 days, with the possibility of work starting by February 7, 2021, should all go as planned.

The bid documents state that the firms are required to consider Guyana's legislative and contractual framework, international best practices

and industry standards, and the specific conditions present in Guyana, then proceed to conduct an indepth review of the Ye l l o w t a i l F i e l d Development Plan (FDP).

Government said the review must include all supporting and reference documentation, along with the related Environmental Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) submitted by the Stabroek Block Licensees.

It was further noted, that the review must include at minimum, an assessment of the strategy and the development model, as well as the criteria for the choices that have been made by the Licensees, including cost effectiveness, and potential alternatives; engineering, geological and geophysical interpretations, simulations, and estimations, including recovery factor efficiency using natural gas injection and available natural gas for

export; and the well and reservoir management s t r a t e g y, t a k i n g i n t o consideration the government's objectives of maximising the recovery of hydrocarbon resources and having no gas flared.

Interested firms would also be expected to review documents pertaining to the proposed oil and gas surface facilities, the associated financial models, economic analyses and cost estimates and reports, towards ensuring financial optimisation of oil and gas recovery profiles; the Health, Safety, Environment and Social (HSES) impacts and proposed mitigation; the Decommissioning Plan and Budget; the natural gas (Continued on page 10)

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Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

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

The Speaker himself joins the festivities “Speaker “waters-down” Gas-to-Shore Motion -finally places it on order paper three months after submission” (KN January 12). Of course, he would have done so, was expected to do so. This is how cooperating Speakers carry themselves.

Even the Opposition’s Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, Mr. David Patterson, had to know so, and resign himself to this ‘watering down’ reality. Any Guyanese who thought otherwise needs more than a health check. They need to check out. Even a cursory look provides the evidence of what the Hon. Speaker of the National Assembly excised from the motion submitted by the Opposition’s Shadow Minister. It certainly doesn’t have to do with the safety and peace of mind of worried citizens. One of the clauses the Speaker in his wisdom removed has to do with ‘discussion on gas leakages and exposures in the marine environment’.

It stumps us that anyone calling themselves a Guyanese would feel good about himself with his name attached to such an omission.

This takes on an even more sickly complexion, when any such leakages and exposures are understood to be “highly toxic to fish and living organisms and the ecology and which could devastate the fishing industry.” How the Hon. Speaker could jettison such a discussion is beyond us. He must be aware of the anguish in our fishing communities close to Exxon’s ongoing offshore operations, and to which those in the fishing sector that are hurting point an accusing finger. Today, it is fishing boats and the folks operating them for a living, which has mostly disappeared. Tomorrow, it could be our coastlines and the people straddling those poor communities who could be impacted negatively.

As we consider all this, and always within the context of the Speaker’s highly suspicious dropping of that clause pointed out by Shadow Minister Patterson, we can’t help but ask another question or two. Where and from whom did his guidance come? It should be noted that we refrained from phrasing this question as ‘what was the source of his instructions, since the man is the Speaker of the National Assembly. He is not one of those loud frothy speakers on some soapbox in some corner next to a place of spirits or other such heady attractions.

The best we could conclude is that since the Speaker is such a straight fellow he ended up in the wrong company.

As most Guyanese know from their grandparents, that is a recipe for tragedy. Unfortunately for Guyana, the tragedy is on them, and not on the head of those whose invisible hands are smeared all over the removal of such a sensitive clause. We have a deep appreciation for the office of Speaker of the National Assembly, recognising that it is a demanding job that is largely a daily tightrope walk, while juggling grenades with the pins pulled. If that is bad, matters now get worse.

For there is a pained David Patterson pointing out to another clause inexplicably not finding favour with the Speaker, a man noted for probity and prudence of a special kind. Why would he want to discard a clause in the motion that names the United States Bureau of Environmental Enforcement (the American offshore oil and gas regulator) and a report that says there are reliability issues with the technology that has to do with “the integrity of deep-water pipelines and the detection of subsurface leaks.”

One does not have to be an engineer, or involved in any way with the oil industry and offshore drilling, to know that that has an ominous ring to it.

In fact, bells are clanging in our heads. Why would the Speaker even touch a clause like that, much less get rid of it, when it could serve to give comfort to Guyanese? We regret this, but we are going to have to come down hard on the Hon Speaker here. What is he thinking? This makes no sense whatsoever. And to think that it took all of three months to get to this point. The debate in the National Assembly already looks dead in the water, as in downhill and deficient, beginning from now, and for that, we thank the Speaker.

Whatever basis used, this year’s budget is heavily tilted to favour the ‘big boys’ DEAR EDITOR, Whatever is the understanding and definition of Government Minister and MP, the Hon. Deodat Indar, of ‘big boys’ it has no relation to reality (“2022 National Budget not for “big boys” -Minister Indar”, Demerara Waves, February 2, and “Govt unashamed budget supports private sector -Min. Indar” KN February 3rd).

I had staked out my position earlier that this same National Budget that he insists is not for the “big boys” is unhelpful to the poor and bottom feeding expectant (and dependent) mass of Guyanese. Since, according to the respective positions of the Minister and I, this very budget is not for “big boys” or favourable to the poor, then there must be some other segment of Guyanese who are the beneficiaries of the lavish generosities in this year’s mammoth budget. At this time, both the segment and beneficiaries remain a mystery. Regardless of the basis used to make a comparison, the reality boils down to this: the bigger boys holding the upper hand, and nearer to the ear of the leaders of the PPP/ C Government, have been able to walk away with the fat and marrow and all the choice cuts contained in this year’s outsized budget. Whether a comparison is done in dollars, the big boys win out hands down. When it is on percentage terms, the big boys are way ahead. If the basis is put side by side, inclusive of seg-

ments and sectors identified and rewarded richly, it is the same big boys that the honourable minister takes it upon himself to run interference for and put in a less than game fight on their behalf. I assert this most strenuously: it is the big boys who are on the receiving end of the largest share of the pie.

The Minister said that they pay a great share of the taxes in this country, surely that can’t be either comparison or defense, given the level of business that is done, the profits that are consistently reaped, and the big boys’ immense share in the welfare embedded in prior budgets, and delivered with them specifically in mind; they get lush premiums on investments and risks. It is what they are in business for, and of which jobs are a necessary byproduct of their endeavours. I remind the Hon Minister that when the oil companies in America profited enormously around the time of the Gulf War, there was great public outrage at the unfairness of it all, the imbalances that made the ordinary citizen bleed through the nose. This is almost the same that is happening here.

Smaller citizens are struggling in a relentless pandemic and with spiraling costs for basics, while the people above them celebrate the extravagances of government’s welfare extended to their kind and class.

If one were to talk about tax relief provisions, the sum of them races away from the

paltry little that the little people got, and for which they are expected to be grateful. If the discussion were to emphasize the vast spending intended for numerous areas in the public sector, it is those same big boys, who Minister Indar intervenes on behalf that would be standing in line to be awarded the billions in contracts that are sure to come their way. The big boys benefit not once but, more accurately and traditionally (as the minister should know well), in several ways, some not directly in the budget.

First, they get the tax relief that has meaning for them (unlike the little people); then, they get to share in the largesse of rich budget fruits, through contracts that are down the line developments made possible by the budget (out of bounds for the little people); they get to rip-off the Guyanese taxpayers for an unwritten and unspoken, but self-empowered, benefit through the tentacles of corruption practices that bedevil this land (unlike the little out of contention Guyanese, who pay for their predations); and last (maybe not), the very same big boys get to turn around and game the tax system to evade paying what is due from them.

For sure, the 2022 National Budget is focused on how much is to be spent and in which areas, but one does not need to possess any overwhelming degree of wisdom to appreciate how the big boys have been favoured

over and over again, directly and indirectly, from this year’s budget. The more money in it for the areas that they engage in and dominate, the more they are the ones prospering, and leave all other citizens lagging far behind.

I think that the best yardstick has to do with who got way more versus who got far too little could be gauged from the reactions to the budget by the big boys (richer) class and the working (poorer) class. The former, as represented by the private sector and its varied business interests, has come out in overflowing praise and gratitude for the 2022 National Budget, as they should, since to do anything else in the light of its many prospering provisions would be the height of ingratitude. What the PPP/C Government did for it and its members in this year’s budget outran their expectations and whispered inside arrangements. There is yet to be a single private sector (big boys’ club area/ individual/entity to cry disappointment). On the other hand, the poor wring their hands in disappointment, disbelief, and despair at the meagerness of what the Budget 2022 has in it for them.

I dare to suggest to Minister Indar that the reactions of both groups in our population speak for themselves, as to who did very well, and who did poorly.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

Who is more deranged?

DEAR EDITOR, I read Freddie Kissoon’s column ...Kissoon, Gaskin, Roopnaraine: More notes on race and class – Kaieteur News(kaieteurnewsonline.com) and read Tacuma’s spiel in the letter section on the very same day.....Addressing Kissoon’s attack on Walter Rodney – Kaieteur News (kaieteurnewsonline.com) We have been reading Freddie Kissoon’s column for decades. Our youngest sibling made it a point to read Freddie’s column every day until he passed away suddenly in 2008. I noticed the subtle change since the last elections.

And then I noticed the naked attacks on him by people who were once his comrades with the letter

by Tacuma just another one. Almost every one of them who suddenly discovered that he is not up to par (sic)....”David Hinds recently declared me a madman and wrote that I am compromised. Mark Benschop said the PPP pays me $500,000 monthly. Adam Harris said he would not be surprised if the

PPP is paying me. Dr. Melissa Ifill said I am concerned about earnings.” (Freddie Kissoon K.N.) While Tacuma remarked about Freddie’s ‘’ fast diminishing base of readers outside the PPP/C.” (sic) K.N Friday 28th Jan. 2022 and went on to remark that “ “Those whom the gods want to destroy, they first make mad.” Addressing Kissoon’s attack on Walter Rodney – Kaieteur News(kaieteurnewsonline.com” The Pan Africanist is very mistaken on both counts. The ones that have been made “mad” certainly is not Freddie Kissoon. From the black pudding man to now Tacuma, who really sound more crazed? As long as Freddie did not write about his Indianness and was critical to Indians, the Pan Africanist and Afro Centric Guyanese were his bosom buddies but now alas, alas, he is now in cahoots with the Indian rights activists...’ ‘Kissoon seemingly relies on the support of new allies like Messrs Vishnu Bisram.” (Tacuma Ogunseye

KN Jan.28th 2022.)

Bisram is a long time relentless Indian rights activist and Freddie shows no bias based on his ethnicity in his writings. To hear these onetime associates of Freddie calling him racist goes to show how bigoted these people are. As long as Freddie beat their tribal djembe, all is well, but the moment Freddie exposed that he used to clap jaals and sing chowtaals, Freddie is no longer good company.

Freddie must not talk about Indians, their rights or anything pro Indian then he becomes “mad.” This is the hypocrisy of life in Guyana.

One set of people alone must be allowed to show off their tribalness. They alone have a right to defend their kith and kin even though some of the very ppl they idolise because of tribe, have made them suffer just like everyone else in Guyana. Aunty must be happy to see now her son who she was carrying when she used to go and tear down (in her own words) Indian

women clothes. She told us many a story about those days and her activism for her Comrade Leader who by the way told her that he never told her to go tear down anyone’s clothes!! But those days nah matter now, cause is we own so the suffering is not punishment just like when nutcase Odo made all of them line up for soap and oil at his “Knowledge Sharing Institutes’’ (sic). Lunatic Burnham is a hero cause is we own!!

When Dr. Bisram fights for the rightful place for Indians in Guyana, he is deemed racist. When Freddie talks about the genuine sufferings of Indians in Guyana under “ALL” governments, he is deemed “mad” according to Tacuma!

Who is more deranged, the ones who are not afraid to voice injustices against a people (Bisram, Freddie, et al) or the ones who demand for their own kind and will not allow others to enjoy that same right (Guyanese Pan Africanist)?

Yours truly, N. Sahadeo

Friday February 04, 2022

National Insurance Scheme - Anticipated Restructuring DEAR EDITOR, It was most exciting to learn of the Minister of Finance reporting on the urgent need to restructure the NIS, and upgrade the financial situation in which it has floundered for decades.

Too few today would appreciate what a pioneering social welfare intervention was the NIS in 1969, to the extent that its management was invited by, and responded to, other Caricom Governments plea to help establish comparator agencies in their territories.

Notwithstanding, the fortunes of our NIS wavered under varying administrations.

One exceptional attempt at its upgrading was however undertaken during the regime when Dr. Roger Luncheon was Chairman of the Board.

He creatively organised a rather representative group of interested parties to review and make recommendations for the agency’s improved delivery capacity.

The interactions there included the undersigned being selected to attend and observe the operations of the Barbados counterpart.

The assignment proved to be a most instructive experience – in the first instance against the background of that country’s retirement age

of 65 years in the 1970s.

Pause to note here the implications for funding the local agency as a result of a (colonial) public service pensionable age of 55 years – differentiating from the eligibility for an NIS pension only at age 60 years.

Every administration has stoutly refused to upgrade the retirement age of public servants to 60 years while other public sector agencies (including for example the GRA and Office of the Auditor General, amongst others) enjoy that entitlement.

What was most impressive, from a human resources perspective, was the quality of the staffing in Barbados, with everyone at a desk being a university graduate – a factor barely considered and hardly ever matched in the employment process of the local entity.

At the time of my visit its CEO was overseas completing a PhD programme. Critically the Barbados counterpart enjoyed a degree of autonomy that was hardly subverted by any political influence.

For one, its management’s decision-making was informed by a legal department containing five Attorneys-at-Law, young men proud of the record that few employers could risk be-

ing unregistered of the Scheme for any extended period.

To supplement this disciplinary procedure, the Barbados NIS had already established a website that included the display of an application form that could be completed not only by any existing employee, but interestingly also, a prospective employee who would be able to enter more relevant information when actually employed.

The agency would then take the appropriate follow-up action with the identified employer.

Needless to say, this creative recommendation when made locally, was greeted with less enthusiasm than was expected, since it would have appeared to compromise related private sector interests.

Opportunity is now again taken to pray that the announced plans for the revitalisation of our NIS will include this long-delayed initiative.

Indeed, it may not be a bad thing to ask Prime Minister Mottley to arrange to provide the technical assistance needed.

E.B. John On behalf of too many female unregistered employees in particular.

APNU+AFC Budget hypocrisy DEAR EDITOR, Whatever the real or imagined ills of our economy or plight of the poor are, the APNU+AFC, whether in government or as the political opposition, lacks the intellectual fortitude, integrity, and moral standing to chastise Budget 2022 as was presented by the PPP/C Government.

Many individuals, families, small businesses, and corporations were placed in dire constraints as a direct consequence of APNU+AFC’s mismanagement and corrupt handling of the economy which only benefitted a small group of superwealthy businessmen, party officials, and loyalists, much

to the displeasure of their core supporters made up of predominantly Afro-Guyanese.

I view with disbelief the APNU+AFC’s theatrics during these budget debates as they champion a menu of socio-economic measures, which they say is necessary for Guyanese to live a “good life” but none of which they implemented while in office.

One question could not escape my thought and that is: “Are these people for real?”

By now most Guyanese ought to understand the nature of the beast that is the APNU+AFC. They are an uncaring group of people who would say and do anything out of desperation. They have lost all relevance and

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connection with the Guyanese people in a nascent oil and gas economy.

It is hypocritical for the political opposition to stand in parliament claiming to be arguing on behalf of the poor and vulnerable for increased wages and pensions and improved living standards when they themselves while in office imposed a host of taxation measures ranging from VAT on water, electricity, education and medical services. It is also hypocritical for them to be doing so now when it was them who stopped the Because We Care (Continued on page 6)

Seven patriotic Guyanese DEAR EDITOR, I would be most grateful if you can grant me some space in your letters column to make an honest and candid statement about seven Guyanese patriots, who are seven candle sticks of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. Namely professor Clyde Thomas, Mr. Stanley Ming, Mr. Glenn Lall, Mr. Ramon Gaskin, Mr. Eusi Kwayana, Mr. Tacuma Ogunseye , and Mr. Paul Slowe.

Our politicians would be well advised to take a curious look at these seven honest

patriotic Guyanese, gentlemen, and start thinking of the unification of all Guyanese.

Also our journalist should start doing more in-depth journalistic investigation and seek interviews from these gentlemen since they would learn a lot to fill the news pages. And at the same time educate the Guyanese populace.

The above named Guyanese patriots are shining examples of what a Guyanese should be. These seven elderly statesmen’s names will be written in the annuals of Guyana history. I do not know

these gentlemen on a personal basis. I had some years ago, chatted with Mr. Glenn Lall and Mr. Stanley Ming when I worked as a driver at the VCT Channel 28 Evening News.

Editor I would be most grateful if you can publish my thoughts as a matter of freedom of speech and association, in order that all can understand the feelings of these honourable gentlemen and their expression of interest for all the people of this our beloved nation.

Yours respectfully, David R. Noel

Education Ministry’s Pacific Reader must be sensitive to groups DEAR EDITOR, I write in response to the report about the Guyana Pacific (Atlantic) Reader that was published to help youngsters with reading. I laud the effort of the Ministry of Education (the staff and Minister) for attempting to publish a book on reading to help kids master the art of reading. But there are adverse reactions to the book on social media as well in the Guyana papers claiming that it marginalises sections (ethnic groups) of the society.

It brings back memories of a failed education policy during the dictatorship that marginalised and discriminated against ethnic groups. I do not think it is/ was the intention of the writers and or editors of the Reader or the Ministry to marginalise any group or under-represent any culture.

During the period when I went to government school right after independence, an

alien ‘culture’ was foisted on students who could not relate to it. Imperial British or white culture was considered great during colonial period, and we were forced to imbibe it.

British culture was replaced with a dominant creole culture (from the Caribbean Readers) of the group that ran the government immediately after independence, and we were forced to imbibe it.

Indian culture was marginalised. Going by books, one would not go where Indians live in Guyana.

Creole culture was considered best for the country although it led to alienation and marginalisation of Indians and native Amerindians, both of whom rejected it.

Protests and objections did not lead to change. To counter the dominant creole culture, Indian culture was imparted in private after

school sessions in mandirs and masjids.

In government schools, we were forced to mimic a cultural perspective and to read stories and novels completely alien to us especially in rural neighbourhoods.

We were also forced to salute every morning the comrade leader whose portrait and the flag of his party that were prominently displayed and to say the pledge and sing the national anthem. And when resisted, opponents were victimised, teachers and headmasters or senior officers transferred or terminated.

Burnham nationalised all private schools forcing his one culture (creole with nothing Indian or Amerindian) policy on all. The government forced us to sing creole folk songs and read (Continued on page 6)

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Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

Was the driver wanted by the police?

DEAR EDITOR, It was a reckless and poor decision by the police to pursue a high speed chase within the confines of the bridge in full view and use of other commuters and vehicles, in that horrific accident which

resulted in loss of lives, injuries and damaged to property.

The police had the vehicle number and could have easily traced and arrested the driver. The high speed pursuit begs the question: was the driver a wanted criminal to

Curious DEAR EDITOR, In Wednesday’s Kaieteur News you reported a Story titled “ Suspect in East Bank Berbice shooting/robbery remanded to prison”, Where one of the victims was shot in the arm during a home invasion and robbery

and was hospitalized for his injury.

You also reported that one of the perpetrators was apprehended and charged with two counts of robbery under arms.

After reading what was reported in your story, I won-

have been pursued in this manner?

I extended condolences to the bereaved families and wish a full and speedy recovery to those injured and traumatised by this incident.

Shamshun Mohamed

dered why there was not a charge for the bodily harm suffered by the victim as well as i l l e g a l p o s s e s sion of a prohibited weapon by the perpetrator?

Sincerely, Dennis Balgobin

Just one question DEAR EDITOR, In response to all the geniuses who condemn our National Budget 2022 especially those who opined that every household should be given at least $70K per month, I have just one question In the next two decades (that is if ExxonMobil doesn’t deplete

all the oil in Guyana before that time) what will the Government give to the people to help them cope with the high cost-of- living - a calabash and a good pair of walking shoes?

LOL Regards, Gloria Holder

APNU+AFC Budget hypocrisy...

From page 5 and School Uniform cash grants. Which category of persons was impacted negatively by these actions of the APNU+AFC? Isn’t it the same people on whose behalf they claim to be arguing?

To be fair, Budget 2022 was not intended to be an election year budget with the bells and whistles and as such, it is easy for the political opposition to chastise and make all sorts of promises to the people.

It is easy for one to say give auntie $10M and give uncle $6M when they do not

have to account for it. Fortunately for this country, President Ali exists in the real world with real-world consequences should his administration mismanage our economy and resources in an APNU+AFClike manner. So, therefore, we should remain steadfast and confident in the PPP/C government, knowing that our freedoms are secure and our future has never been more promising.

The Ali administration along with past PPP/C governments have many times proven their ability to generate and equitably distribute

wealth amongst the nations’ poorest and most vulnerable, to start-up and complete massive housing projects geared towards the provision of thousands of new homes, to open new areas of opportunities and job creation in the ICT sector for its young people were accomplished in the absence of oil revenue or socalled ‘Oil Budget’.

It is clear that under PPP/ C governments we have moved forward as a nation without any revenue from the oil and gas sector.

Yours Truly, Anson Paul

Education Ministry’s Pacific...

From page 5 creole folk stories and poems that had no relationship or connections with Indians.

I remember as children, encouraged by adults, we ridiculed the creole songs, poems, stories.

I won’t say what we did with Burnham’s photo that was on exercise books or public posters.

We were also forced to sing the national anthem and say the pledge.

At one time, it was the law to do same in cinemas before start of the movie.

Charles Ramson Sr. refused to stand up and say the pledge or sing the anthem.

The culture police arrested and charged him.

He defended himself and won the case before Magistrate Prem Persaud.

Burnham discontinued his policy of forced pledge and anthem in cinemas.

But the education officers or police continued to enforce the policy in school.

That policy of forced alien culture on people changed with the restoration of democracy post 1992.

An alien culture was no longer foisted on any group and cultural diffusion occurred naturally to those wishing to embrace the cultures of other groups.

That is how it is in the white man country today.

It should be same for Guyana.

Government must be careful in its education policy not to bring back bad memories of the discredited educational policy of an

authoritarian era.

In the effort to teach reading, which must be mandatory in all early grades, especially in the selection of books and reading materials, the Ministry of Education must be sensitive in its choice so as not to alienate or marginalise the varied groups in our multi-cultural society.

Whatever is presented in any book must be accurate and a true reflection of society.

However, it is inevitable or natural that whoever writes a book does so from his or her own bias of cultural upbringing and understanding of life in the society. When government funds is involved, the Ministry must be extra sensitive not to project ethnic bias. To avoid such bias, it is critical to have representatives of all the cultures in preparing a Readers’ Book for children or adults that is produced by the Ministry of Education.

In teaching reading comprehension, texts must accurately reflect the cultures of the varied groups. Differences in cultural background cannot be papered over.

Reading materials must accurately reflect students’ or the population’s cultural beliefs, behaviours, and experiences to enhance students’ reading and comprehension ability of the materials that they read in classroom.

The materials must give the students the opportunity to foster appreciation of their culture and the cultures of others and be proud of their

own.

I taught at various levels of schooling in the US (including Reading, Literature, and English) for over 35 years during which I obtained educational administrative and district superintendent licencing.

Reading materials were Euro or White-centric.

But during the 1980s, African and Hispanic American community leaders and educators began demanding and got changes in reading materials in the classrooms that reflect their cultures.

About five years ago, Indian Americans took California to court for cultural bias against Hindus and won.

Indian reading materials are now part of the curriculum.

In New York and New Jersey, books and materials relating to all ethnic groups are included in the curriculum and syllabus.

I am with a group that is lobbying the NY state to include Indian history and literature in educational policy.

No culture should be dominant.

There must be cultural equality.

The Ministry should recall the Readers text and start over inviting reading specialists and experts in the varied cultures to prepare a text that would accurately reflect the culture, civilisation, presence of our various peoples without alienating or marginalising any group.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

Why is full coverage insurance for Guyana not a priority for VP Jagdeo when it comes to our oil production?

He keeps bobbing and weaving instead of simply accepting that Guyana is at risk and must be fully protected.

The question we must all ask is: Whose side is VP Jagdeo really on?

PAGE 07

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

24hrs monitoring of off-shore activities needed before Yellowtail’s approval - OGGN I n the absence of 24hours offshore monitoring of Guyana's oil production, the evidence of abuse has been glaring with Guyana's fisheries sector suffering declines. To ensure that this does not continue to affect the country, the Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN) has advised that full-time monitoring should come on stream, before ExxonMobil's fourth project, the Yellowtail development, is approved.

In a strongly worded missive, OGGN, an agency founded by specialists across the globe which has been keeping watch on Guyana's oil sector, said that the time has come for Guyana to cease its dependency on the oil companies for pertinent information on the country's oil production.

Darshanand Khusial, on behalf of the OGGN, in a letter to this newspaper contended, “We are a sovereign state not a subsidiary of the oil

companies”.

In this context, the specialist made the observation that it appears as though the Government of Guyana has put its faith in the oil companies that operate in the Stabroek Block, even though glaring issues have been raised in relation to the contract signed with the oil companies operating in that block.

According to him, “numerous issues have been raised during oil production such as flaring and a reduction in fish being caught (and) we need to have our own checks in place and stop relying on the oil companies to inform us on matters of national importance”.

“We are depending on oil companies, who have been unfair partners, to monitor for us. Given our lack of monitoring, would we find out that a major oil spill has occurred when it washes up on our shores? Before we approve Yellowtail, we need 24-hour monitoring in place for such things as flaring,

toxic water (dumping) and oil spills,” the OGGN urged.

The specialist flagged that beginning with the contract signed for the Stabroek Block back in 2016, it was not entered into with oil companies ExxonMobil, HESS, or China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), but instead, shell companies registered in the Caribbean which are named on the contract.

“These shell companies have limi ed resources but they serve the purpose of protecting the parent companies from major lawsuits and liabilities,” the Oil Network dared to explain.

Not only this, but OGGN pointed out that the contract itself contains “highly questionable” clauses including Guyana paying taxes on behalf of the oil companies.

Even though this is the case, the organization argued that Guyana still continues to “blindly trust” the oil companies to inform the

OGGN spokesperson, Darshanand Khusial government on how much gas is being flared and the amount of toxic water being dumped into the ocean, some five years after the signing of the Stabroek contract.

More alarming however, the oil governance network said that no mention has been made of the vast rate of pollution taking place, due to the flaring of gas. The organization stated, “In July 2020, the media reported that the Guyana EPA said that the gas flaring was projected to end on August 10, 2020.

However, more than a year and a half after that statement, the oil companies are still flaring our gas”.

It added that on December 4, 2021 during a Moray House Trust consultation, it was reported that the Liza 1 operation was bringing up, on a daily basis, 180 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of gas with the oil.

However, the OGGN highlighted that at least 83 billion cubic feet of gas has not been accounted for since the production of oil commenced at Liza 1.

Khusial reasoned, “The 180 mmscfd figure is from page viii of the EIA Volume 1 for Liza Phase 1. However, after subtracting for the gas flared (16 mmscfd) and that used in operations (20 mmscfd), there were at least 83 billion cubic feet of gas (144 mmscfd x 578 days) that is not accounted for since Liza 1 started producing oil”.

The specialist was keen to note that that amount of gas t could have powered all the homes in Guyana with electricity for about seven years, but this gas has “vanished”.

“Can the Ministry of

Natural Resources and the EPA give an explanation for that?” he enquired.

On the other hand, the OGGN did not spare the government and the oil companies in highlighting the negative effects the fishermen have been severely impacted by.

The specialist reasoned, “Is it a coincidence the reduction in fish seems to have occurred in the same period when we started pumping oil? Who is monitoring the changes caused by the daily dumping of toxic water from the oil production vessels?”

Nevertheless, he shared that the consequences are evident by the thousands of fishermen being affected, however there is no action being taken to understand the root cause of the problem, in his opinion.

In this regard, Khusial said, “Could the fish that is now being caught contain oil related toxins that are harmful to our people?”

When it comes to monitoring these critical offshore dimensions, the oil network said while media reports suggest equipment (Continued on page 22)

Duo in 2016 Black Bush Polder Triple murder changes plea After pleading not guilty to the three counts each of murder committed on Pawan Chandradeo called "Suresh", Jaikarran Chandradeo of Mibicuri North, Black Bush Polder and Naresh Rooplall called "Tika-bai" in July 2016, two of the four accused opted to plead guilty to manslaughter at the Berbice High Court on Wednesday.

Rakesh Karamchand called "Go-To-Front" and Carlton Chaitram called "Lie-Man" of Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice, both pleaded guilty to three c o u n t s e a c h o f manslaughter. Sentencing was deferred to 17 February 2022. Earlier this month Jairam Chetram pleaded guilty to three counts of murder. Sentencing for him is set to take place on 10 February 2022.

Representing the state in the case is Prosecutrix

Abigail Gibbs and Justice Sandil Kissoon sitting as judge. Karamchand and Chaitram are being represented by Attorney-atlaw Mursalin Bhaccus while the other accused Tameshwar Jagmohan who also made his court appearance and is on trial for the murders, is being represented by Attorney-atlaw Suriya Sabsook.

The state called two witnesses to the stand on Wednesday with the first being Indrawattie Rooplall called "Pam" of Lot 163 Mibicuri North, Black Bush Polder. She was the wife of Pawan Chandradeo, mother of Jaikarran Chandreo and sister of Naresh Rooplall.

The second witness called to the box was ex-member of the Guyana Police Force (CID) Richard Persaud.

The bullet-riddled bodies of Pawan Chandradeo, his son Jaikarran Chandradeo, both

of Mibicuri North BBP and Naresh Rooplall, of Number 70 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, were found on July 22 in the Kookrit Savannah, Black Bush Polder. The remains bore gaping gunshot wounds to the head and u p p e r b o d i e s .

The bodies were found by a rice farmer of Black Bush Polder and his workmen. It was reported that 13-yearold Alvin Chandradeo, who accompanied his father Pawan and brother Jaikarran was left at a pump station on a dam while the others went further into the Savannah to fish.

The lad stayed at the pump station from where he reportedly heard gunshots.

In October 2018, the four men were committed to stand trial in the High Court for the brutal murders. A fifth man who was charged with accessory after the fact was granted $2M bail in 2016.

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

The Budget debate has so far been disappointing The quality of most of the presentations during the Budget debate leaves much to be desired.

On both sides of the House there were irrelevancies. Too many unnecessary sniping at each other, all of which suggest that more attention could have been paid to preparation for this debate.

The Budget speech of the Senior Minister in the Office of the President appears to have been the central focus of attention. But despite the marathon address undertaken by the person presenting the Budget speech, there is only so much which can be covered in such a presentation.

One of the central purposes of the speakers on the government side is to enlighten the House, and by extension the public, as to the policies and programmes which the government will be pursuing in the coming year and, at the same time, to give an account of each Ministry’s record of achievements in the preceding year. The speakers on the government side instead focused heavily on criticising the record of the APNU+AFC. They did also respond to some of the criticisms made by the opposing side, at times using very creative language.

The Opposition did not

do much justice to their own role. They were supposed to, not only be critical of the measures announced in the Budget but also to, propose feasible alternatives. The majority of the Opposition speakers presentation were disappointing.

The proposals which came forth, generally lacked substance and were not effectively justified. The call for example for a $100,000 minimum wage was bound to be met with criticisms as to what was APNU+AFC’s record in relation to this particular sum.

In other words, you had a chance to raise the minimum wage to G$100,000 per month but instead raised taxes including on water and electricity. The Opposition therefore walked right into a trap which they themselves set. The government side rightly picked them apart. The argument that savings from allocations could increase public service wages conflicts with the questioning of the capacity of the government to spend the sums proposed.

The international financial agencies have long recommended that increases in public sector wages will undermine efforts to build capacity and competitiveness. It is one thing to question the government’s ability to

spend its allocation. It is another thing to propose that a substantial sum be spent on boosting public sector wages.

But there was tremendous weakness in many of the presentations on the government’s side. Merely saying, for example, that the government has always catered for wage increases does not bring closure to the question as to what is in store for public servants in a year in which inflation is expected to be yet again another major challenge. Education is in a mess and one of the better presentations emanated from the Opposition Shadow Minister for Education.

This was a solid presentation which exposed serious shortcomings in the management of the education sector, and it is a presentation which should be taken seriously.

The Government’s strategy in defending its Budget seems to involve attacking the APNU+AFC’s record.

This is being done however, at the expense of further expanding on the plans and programmes of the various Ministries for this year. It is not enough to say that, based on a discussion with one player in the fish processing sector, the fish catches are improving. Processing of more fish by one fish process-

U.S. Embassy hosts job preparation training for Persons with Disabilities The U.S. Embassy in collaboration with the Guyana Council of Organizations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) facilitated a job preparation training for Persons with Disabilities.

According to a US Embassy press release, the virtual nine-week training provided participants with the practical knowledge and resources to be proactive in their job search and successful in acquiring jobs.

Ambassador Lynch said of the training, “we are committed to promoting the role of persons with disabilities in creating a prosperous Guyana. This training is part of our ongoing partnership with talented and capable individuals who simply want the same opportunities as everyone else.”

During the training, nineteen participants were exposed to resumé writing,

interview preparation, networking, and examining their strengths and skill sets to realise their true potential as afforded under the Guyana Disability Act of 2010.

The course curriculum will be used for future trainings in collaboration with GCOPD and other interested stakeholders.

The programme is part of the U.S. Embassy’s ongoing work to encourage prosperity for all Guyanese.

Dem boys seh...

No need for high-speed chase fuh a traffic violation Wan sad and tragic incident happen Wednesday on de East Coast Public Road.

Dem seh how wan lil boy drive way from police road block. In de ensuing high speed chase, de police vehicle hit de car it was pursuing which then went into de path of a canter truck causing de truck fuh overturn and slam into two other vehicles.

One of the vehicles had a family of four who get injuries. Nuff blame gan be shedding. Some gan ask wat constitute a police road block and why yuh gan ask

fuh documents at a road block? Does a senior officer have to be present at a road block? Or can any small band of police ranks simply stop traffic and call dat a road block. At de same time, nobody gat any right driving away or refusing to stap when de police tell yuh fuh do stap.

If de police tell yuh stap, yuh should stap. If yuh feel de police unprofessional, protest respectfully but cooperate and den go and file a report with de Office of Professional Responsibility and de Police Complaints Authority.

Deh gat too much inci-

dents tekkin place in which people resisting arrest by de police. Dis is de thing wah people seeing pun television and dem trying fuh imitate.

It gan cause nuff problems because is too much pulling and tugging and fighting tekkin place when de police try fuh effect arrest.

Even if de driver drive way from de roadblock – which is wrang – yuh nah gat fuh endanger de lives of others by having a high speed chase on a public road.

Tek de number and go and look fuh de car and tek action. Talk half. Leff half

ing plant does not mean that the fishermen have improved their yields. A more comprehensive assessment was needed, including the results on the long-awaited survey as to the cause of the decline in fishing catches. There is equally a need to address the fundamental concerns of citizens. Apart from the measures announced to cushion and mitigate inflation, what is being done to ensure that prices in the markets decline? The increase in food prices, in particular, has been a heavy burden on consumers. It is not much comfort to hear about

an increase in the income tax threshold placing more monies in people’s pockets. The majority of poor workers, particularly those in the private sector, work below the public sector minimum wage. The increase in the income tax threshold does not bring any relief whatsoever to the majority of shop workers who earn $60,000 per month for 12hour workdays. The Budget debates therefore were a bagful – not a barn full – of missed opportunities. The government side of the House in failing palpably to make a case for the Budget. The Op-

position is wasting a wonderful opportunity to score heavily against what is a weak ‘bowling attack’ by the government.

(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

Friday February 04, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

When you invent your own facts, you are a narcissist I believe it is my right to say who I respect or who I see as not brilliant or bright. I never respected the academic work of Henry Jeffrey.

As a trained social scientist, I have always believed since my UG student days that Jeffrey did not and does not produce plausible academic arguments. In one of his Stabroek News columns (to this day Jeffrey has never written why he left the PPP government or was evicted and the same for the Stabroek News). Jeffrey described me as a Trumpian narcissist. That was weird.

A Trumpian personality believes in right-wing politics. I have been a leftwing activist my entire life

and accept an infusion of socialist economics in policy-making. A Trumpian personality is against the flow of immigration into his/her country. I took volcanic objection when a certain trade unionist used xenophobic language to deny Latin immigrants to Guyana.

Anyway, for a rebuttal to Jeffrey's portrait of my Trumpian narcissism (I'm still amused as that thing), see my column of Sunday, June 7, 2020 captioned, “A Trumpian narcissist calls me a Trumpian narcissist.”

Here is the academic and polemical mediocrity of Jeffrey again. This is where it is important to confront people who produce their own facts. What you are

about to read from Jeffrey is bizarre but these things should not come from someone who was once a university lecturer.

Jeffrey produced statistics from the Chief Election Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, at the time of the March 2020 election, to prove that the votes counted were not genuine ballots. But wait a minute! You have to see which Regions produced these false ballots. Here is what Jeffrey regurgitated from Lowenfield. Below is the percentage for fake ballots for the flowing Regions as adumbrated by Lowenfield and Jeffrey found credible to reproduce: R1- 34.6 percent; R2 - 74.8

Frederick Kissoon percent; R3 - 67.9 percent; R4 - 55.4 percent; R5 - 50.5 percent; R6 - 77.4 percent; R7 - 70.5 percent; R9 - 53.7 percent; R10 – 17 percent.

What is the reply to this asininity?

First, you are talking about a massively rigged election in which on March 3, the day after voting, the very Lowenfield certified the results for nine Regions. If Lowenfield's percentage is right, then three questions are relevant. One is, where was Lowenfield when this gargantuan conspiracy of rigging was taking place on voting day? The other question is where were the 2,000 APNU-AFC polling agents and returning officers (ROs) when all hell was breaking loose in those polling stations?

The second reply is that the APNU+AFC never

objected to these frauds and M r. J o s e p h H a r m o n announced on Friday, March 6, 2020 that GECOM was being summoned to declare a victory for the APNU+AFC. It is either the CEO, the APNU+AFC polling agents and ROs were pathologically incompetent or no such fraud occurred.

Third, there is no percentage of bogus ballots for Region 8 by the CEO. This is strange.

Why would the opposition rig the poll in 9 of the 10 regions, leaving out Region 8? Could it be the CEO forgot to include the imaginary percentage for Region 8? Fourth, if the PPP tampered with the election in Region 10, then the PPP is a phenomenal, omnipotent superhero.

For all of Guyana's modern history, MacKenzie has been pro-PNC. How did the PPP manage to rig the ballots there to the tune of 17 percent?Fifth, the CEO declared, and Jeffrey found it credible to publicise it, that 55.4 percent of Region 4 ballots were bogus.

This is a region where the PPP has never won since British Guiana started having elections. But while in opposition in March 2020,

the PPP through one of the world's most daring feats, pulled off a successful tampering project in Region 4 on March 2.It is such a sad commentary on people who have had a university education, to believe those jumbie statistics that Lowenfield produced.

Anyway, I left number six reply for the last – the statements of poll (SOPs). If we had such an oceanic assault on the March election, then the victims of fraud had to do the commonsensical thing and produce their (SOPs).

Even if they could not do it a week or a month after, then surely, they should have done it while the world's eyes were on Guyana.

To conclude, people like Henry Jeffrey have their problems. We all do, so one must move on. Guyana has moved on. I will close with a question for Jeffrey. Is he willing to analyse the minds of Mr. Dominic Gaskin and the son of the AFC's leader, Khemraj Ramjattan? They both concluded that the APNU+AFC did not win the March 2020 general elections. Who really is the narcissist?

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

Woman robbed at gunpoint during home invasion A 34-year-old woman was robbed at gunpoint when she woke up to find two bandits in her bedroom at her Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo residence.

The incident occurred in the wee hours of the morning on Thursday. According to reports, the woman alleged that about 02:00hrs she was robbed of $500,000 cash by the perpetrators. After being awoken by a

strange sound in her home, she discovered that there were two unidentified males at her bedside demanding that she hand over cash.

Fearful for her life, the victim surrendered the money to one of the suspects who was armed with a gun. After which they ran out of her bedroom and made good their escape in an unknown direction. Further investigations are currently in progress.

Yellowtail licence to be awarded...

From page 3 utilisation plan for the field; and the overall risk management strategy.

Furthermore, Kaieteur News understands that, the successful applicant would be required to prepare a report, setting out the opinions formed in the evaluation of the FDP and ESIA, addressing at minimum, compliance or non-compliance with the requirements of the existing legislative and industry standards, including any deficiencies, unresolved issues and areas of additional assessments or technical analysis that the government should request before making a determination on the FDP. According to the government, it expects support for the Natural Resources Ministry through engagements and information exchanges, with the Licensees as well as the provision of on-the-job training to Guyanese during the FDP evaluation process.

TRILLION DOLLAR PROJECT

Kaieteur News previously reported that development costs for the Yellowtail project are poised to exceed US$9B or GY$1.8 trillion.According to project documents, Yellowtail will consist of drilling approximately 41 to 67 development wells; installation and operation of Subsea, Umbilicals, Risers, and Flowlines equipment; installation and the operation of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel in the eastern half of the Stabroek Block; and— ultimately—project decommissioning.The FPSO will be designed to produce up to 250,000 barrels of oil per day. The initial production is expected to begin by the end of 2025–early 2026, with operations continuing for at least 20 years.

The project is expected to employ up to 540 persons during development well drilling, approximately 600 persons at the peak of the installation stage, and 100 to 140 persons during production operations.

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

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Region 10 officials worried about rising COVID-19 cases As Region 10 health officials continue to grapple with the rising infection rate of Covid-19, the region has now recorded over 455 active cases.

In the region, 79 persons have died thus far from the virus. Three persons are in institutional isolation; all three are oxygendependent while 452 are in home isolation. The figures show that 21 communities have active cases and

hot spots are: Amelia's Ward, Wismar Housing Scheme and Block 22.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Deron Adams said he is very concerned about the spike in cases and with residents not taking the virus seriously. Residents, he said are going about their day as normal and are not adhering to the measures. Adams urged particularly youths to think of

family when socialising. "It may not affect you who are young and asymptomatic but what about your grandmother at home...I am pleading with our residents to not burden our healthcare system."

Regional Health Officer Dr. Gregory Harris, said that the region saw a rapid increase in cases following the holiday season. Prior to that, he said active cases were below 20. While acknowledging

that super-spreader social activities could have resulted in the spike, he said those activities should not be seen as the only factor but the general reckless behaviour of the populace.

"We need to consider the reckless behaviour of the general public, we also had persons attending activities out of the region as well as a lot of persons visited the region for the holidays,"

he reasoned.

With it being suspected that the omicron variant may be in Guyana, Dr. Harris is urging persons to exercise caution and adhere to the COVID-19 measures. "We are not sure it is here but the omicron variant spreads very fast and easily...we however have been anticipating it and we have put systems in place at the health institutions to deal with the spike.

PAGE 14

Screen grab from CCTV footage captured a Venezuelan woman being assaulted with a baton.

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

Police deny abusing, robbing Venezuelan women ...CCTV footage surfaces of female rank attacking complainants with a baton

T

he Guyana Police Force (GPF), has moved to deny allegations that its ranks on Saturday last assaulted and robbed 20 Venezuelan women of thousands of US and Guyana Dollars during a raid at the Diamond Hotel and Bar located on George Street Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown.

However, footage from a surveillance camera which surfaced yesterday showed a female officer involved in a scuffle with one of the women. It appeared as though there was an exchange of words between them which might have led to the female officer attacking the woman with a baton. The Venezuelan woman apparently retaliated and a brief scuffle ensued during which the officer used the baton to further threaten and assault her.

GPF in a statement in response to an article published by this newspaper on Wednesday related that a team of ranks led by a Gazetted Officer had visited the bar based on information they received about trafficking in persons taking place there.

According to police, it was the owner of the business establishment, Freeman Fordyce, 45, who tried to obstruct them from performing their duties by restraining ranks from entering the yard. As a result they were forced to cut through the metal gate with the help of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS).

The force admitted that upon entering the building they conducted a raid and had taken 20 Venezuelan to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters located at Eve Leary, but denied physically assaulting them. Instead, the force stated, some of the women resisted. GPF also denied that the ranks involved in the raid stole any of the women's belongings. “While

in custody none of the Venezuelan Nationals made any report, either of loss of cash or property nor of being physically assaulted by the police”. The force continued that after finding no evidence of trafficking they released them.

Kaieteur News reported however, that the women claimed the officers abused them. They had also alleged that they could not verify what was stolen until they returned to the hotel rooms. According to the women all of their savings were gone, electrical hair pressing irons and clothes that they had purchased for their children.

The women also alleged that ranks had forced them to sign documents stating that they were given food, water, and treated well while in custody. They claimed that they were detained for four hours and only given water.

The ranks, they said, returned their cellphones and threw them out into the dark streets without any money or transportation to take them back to the hotel. In order to make it back to the hotel, they had to call friends.

Speaking with Kaieteur News yesterday, they related that note was taken of the Crime Chief's advice for them to lodge a report at force's O ff i c e o f P r o f e s s i o n a l Responsibility (OPR) and they will do so soon.

However, they said, “we are not keen on pushing the matter further but we are grateful that we were able to let everyone know how they were treated and robbed by lawmen”.

Meanwhile as it relates to the allegations leveled by the force against the proprietor of the hotel, Freeman Fordyce, GPF stated that he has been placed before the courts and charged for the unlawful restraint of three of its officers. He is currently out on $50,000 bail.

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 15

Convict found guilty on three counts of raping minor Esan Germain, who was convicted in 2017 and sentenced to thirty years in jail for engaging in sexual activity with a minor was on Thursday found guilty on three counts of raping a 15-year-old girl.

Germain, 45, faced trial before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and a mixed twelve-member jury at the Georgetown High Court.

He had denied the three charges which alleged that between January 1, 2014, and July 24, 2014, in Georgetown, he engaged in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16.The convict was represented by attorney-at-law Clyde Forde, while the State was represented by State Counsel Nafeeza Baig in association with State Counsel

Muntaz Ali and State Counsel Latifa Elliott.

According to court papers on the first occasion, Germain approached the teen and asked her about school, grades, relationship status, and sexual orientation, and he also told her “You know I love you”.

The child responded, “I know”, and Germain then hugged her, kissed her cheeks, and then began to kiss her neck. He then proceeded to undress and then raped her.

The second occasion Germain first lay on top of her touching her private area. He then kissed her on her lips and raped the minor for about ten minutes. On the third occasion, it was just after mid-night

on July 17, 2014, when Germain first called out for the teen but she did not respond since she knew what he wanted.

She was still in bed when she felt a lash on her hand before Germain dragged her out of bed and again raped her.

On July 23, 2014, while the child was on the road going to the shop she saw her mom and told her what Germain would do to her and they made a report. In an unsworn testimony in essence Germain's defence was that the victim was an unmannerly child who misbehaved.

Germain will be sentenced on February 28, 2022. In December 2017, Germain was sentenced on three counts of raping a child from

the age of 4. He was initially sentenced to serve 15 years on the first count, 20 years on the second and 30 years on the third.

But with a breakdown of the sentence, he is expected to serve only thirty years behind bars, as the sentence will run concurrently.

According to the indictment, the incidents took place on three separate occasions between January and December 2010; between January and December 2012 and between January and December 2013. On one occasion, Germain is said to have instructed the child to perform a sexual act on him. The assaults began when the child was just four years old and continued up until she was seven.

Esan Germain.

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 17

Oil production ship explodes off Nigeria,10 dead

Signposts of the presence of a pipeline in Ughelli, Delta state, Nigeria, Sept. 16, 2020. Nigerian authorities confirmed Feb. 3, 2022, that an offshore oil production facility exploded in the region.

- Guyana still to get full coverage insurance from Exxon An oil production and storage ship exploded in southern Delta state and 10 crewmembers are feared dead, Nigerian authorities said.

An official of the Sheba Oil Exploration and Production Company confirmed the incident in a s t a t e m e n t T h u r s d a y.

Ikemefuna Okafor said the offshore production facility known as Trinity Spirit erupted in flames in Ukpokiti, on the coast of Nigeria's southern Delta state.

He said the fire was believed to have been caused by an explosion and that the incident was being investigated. Ikemefuna said the initial responders to the incident included local

fishermen and Clean Nigeria Associates, a team operating at a nearby facility. The extent of damage is still unknown. The ship is able to store up to two million barrels of oil and the explosion raises serious environmental concerns.

Three months ago an oil spill in nearby Bayelsa state spewed for one month, causing severe damage to land and water bodies before it was contained.

Ibiosiya Sukubo is a leader of one of the communities in the Niger Delta that was recently affected. "The ecological and aquatic devastation caused by oil and gas exploitation and exploration has been quite colossal and astronomical," Sukubo said.

"The movement of heavy marine vessels creating a host of turbidity without proper compensation, alleviation, remediation, is an appalling circumstance we find ourselves in, the Niger Delta." Nigeria is trying to maximize its petroleum output, and authorities have intensified a crackdown on illegal tapping of pipelines. Petroleum officials say the country loses some 150,000 barrels of oil a day to such theft.

The Nigeria incident comes at a time when Guyana is still to secure full coverage insurance from oil operators here despite numerous calls for such.

Currently, the Liza Destiny vessel is operating at the Liza (Continued on page 22)

A view of an oil spill from a well head is pictured at Santa Barbara, in Nembe, Bayelsa, Nigeria, Nov. 25, 2021

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Pigeons take over Kuru-Kururu Primary School Teachers and parents of pupils attending the KuruKururu Primary School, located on the Soesdyke Linden Highway have written to the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, informing her of the insanitary conditions they are forced to endure, as pigeons have taken over the facility.

A parent who recently attended a Parent Teachers Association (PTA) meeting at the school said she had the unfortunate experience of having to clean herself, after a pigeon defecated on her. In a social media post the parent said, “As I was speaking to one of the teachers after the meeting, I felt a wet substance ran down the side

of my neck and front of my blouse. I glanced up and there were two pigeons above me. Those pigeons defecated on me. The teacher quickly offered to assist me with cleaning it and remarked that it was something they have to deal with on a daily basis. I can only imagine what she meant”.

Caught in the act: the birds were also photographed in the school building.

Pigeon droppings at one of the entrances to the building is captured in this photograph.

The parent explained that her child was recently enrolled at the institution and on the first day of school, he returned with the news that pigeons were living in the building.

In fact, she said that her child told her they would have to look up before walking just to be sure that there are no pigeons above

them. If there are pigeons above them, they'd have to move quickly to prevent the pigeons' waste dropping on them.

He also related that when they are writing in their exercise books there would be a loud “splash” in the middle of their books.

“They would complain but what can the teacher do about that,” the parent reasoned.

It was only when she attended the meeting did she understand the severity of the situation that her child (Continued on page 22)

Pigeon faeces fell on a parent during a meeting at the school.

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 19

PAHO laments low vaccination coverage in Region ...says 14 countries yet to

W

ashington D . C . , 2 February 2022 (PAHO) – While 63% of people in Latin America and the Caribbean have now been vaccinated against COVID-19, coverage remains uneven, with 14 countries and territories immunizing 70% of their populations and the same number failing to reach even 40% coverage, the Pan American Health O rg a n i z a t i o n D i r e c t o r Carissa F. Etienne said during a media briefing on Wednesday.

With 7 million new infections and over 34,000 deaths reported in the region since last week, the PAHO

sex or by risk group.” “These data are crucial to designing targeted vaccination campaigns, maximizing the impact of vaccine doses and saving lives,” she said. xzsxzxz Looking towards upcoming COVID vaccination campaigns, the director announced that vaccine supplies are expected to pick up in 2022.

Thanking donors that already “helped our region secure doses when supply was limited,” Dr. Etienne said further donations from the United States, Spain, Canada, Germany, France and other countries total some 26 million doses.

PAHO's Revolving Fund,

Chart showing Guyana's vaccination coverage Director highlighted “worrisome gaps” in the vaccination of at-risk populations – with some countries reporting lower coverage among the elderly compared to younger groups who are less at risk for severe disease.

Dr. Etienne said the full extent of the disparity remains unknown, as detailed data is limited, so it is vital that “countries collect and report data showing vaccination coverage by age,

which has so far purchased almost 100 million doses, is also on track to obtain a further 200 million doses on behalf of the region this year.

As these doses arrive, Dr. Etienne urged countries to start making the necessary preparations for vaccine rollout, including investing in vaccination programs, collecting and reporting detailed vaccine data, and prioritizing high-risk groups.

“Countries should

refocus their efforts in protecting health workers, immunocompromised individuals and the elderly, first,” the Director said.

She also sent a special message to the millions of adults in the Caribbean who have yet to receive their vaccines. “I am a medical doctor, wife, mother and grandmother. I could not wait to get my vaccination. I was so anxious for the wellbeing of myself and my

vaccinate 40% of people

95-year old mother,” Dr. Etienne said.

“Please don't delay, get vaccinated today,” she urged. “COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and they're the best way to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from this v i r u s . ” Tu r n i n g t o t h e COVID-19 situation in the region, the Director reported that the rise in infections appears to be slowing down

in places hit earliest by the Omicron variant.

Most new cases were reported in North America, but surges continue across Central and South America and deaths increased by nearly one-third in all subregions.In the Caribbean, deaths have more than doubled in Cuba, the Bahamas, and Antigua and Barbuda and other islands,

including Martinique and Guadeloupe are seeing the virus spread rapidly among young and unvaccinated populations. “These trends show that we must continue to sustain every part of our COVID-19 response,” Dr. Etienne said. “Vaccinations, testing, and continuing public health measures like mask wearing and social distancing remain crucial.”

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

Opposition can find out next week which projects oil money will fund …as Govt. boasts Budget 2022 meant to uplift middle class Members of the political opposition looking to find out specifically which projects will be funded directly from the country's oil resources will have an opportunity to do so in the coming week as government continues to defend its 2022 Budget, this time as a middle class budget.

This, one day after government Minister Deodat Indar declared that government was unashamed that Budget 2020 targeted support for the Private Sector.

Substantive Minister for Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, yesterday repeated the mantra to say this year's estimates were aimed at uplifting the middle class.

The sentiment was ventilated by Members of the National Assembly for a fourth day of Debates for this year's National Estimates.

Edghill in his presentation sought to defend his Ministry's $89B against the criticisms that roads and

bridges cannot be eaten, to say without roads and bridges then one cannot eat.

Adamant, a Budget is not just about numbers but has to be seen in context, Edghill sought to use the occasion to point out that with the coming into office of the People's Progressive Party Civic, the policy void that existed has been replaced with vision. Empty rhetoric replaced with concrete action, investors who had turned away are returned and stalled projects have resumed.

As such, he regaled Budget 2022 as altruistic, realistic and futuristic, since according to Minister Edghill, “the plans, the projects, the programs and the policies outlined (in the Budget) are as a result of forward thinking.” He contends further that Budget 2022 is undergirded and supported with visionary planning and could be described as strategic.

According to the Minister of

Public Works, Budget 2022 will be remembered as the Budget that laid the foundation for a Guyana.

Adamant the budget also addresses the welfare of the working class and speaks to bread and butter issues, the government Minister pointed to measures such as the promised cash grants, programs for women and the vulnerable as well as increases in pension among others.

To this end, Minister Edghill was adamant this budget addresses all of that and further, “you cannot develop a country if you are not growing the middle class.”

As such, he contended that several of the measures embedded in Budget 2022 had been put in place to grow the Guyanese middle class.

Qualifying his position of continued growth being experienced in the Guyanese middle class, he drew reference to the recent announcement by the

Guyana Revenue Authority that the PAB car Registration series was quickly coming to an end in just six months. He explained saying that what this means is that public servants are no longer in poverty with bicycles and are instead, now purchasing more and more cars, homes and other amenities.

“We have to grow the middle class; we have to reduce the bottom and grow the middle. We have to eliminate poverty,” he said and insisted that the programs outlined in Budget 2022 will help to achieve these objectives.

According to Edghill, each of the infrastructural projects that fall under his remit, as much as roads and bridges cannot be eaten, they will provide increased opportunities.

He said, while citizens cannot eat sea defences—the sea defences in fact protect thousands of cash crop and farmers and other food producers that could be affected by floods.

It is with this in mind, the Minister insisted, that infrastructural projects each have a concomitant effect on other industries including tourism, agriculture and

other important sectors.

With regard the injection of some $126B of oil revenues, being part of the 2022 $553B Budget, Minister Edghill told Members of Parliament that their concerns with regard which programs would be funded with oil revenues would be answered in the coming week.

To this end, he pointed to the next stage of the Budget Process—the Committee of Supply—which begins in the coming week, at which point in time opposition Members of Parliament would be able to pose specific questions on specific allocations, current or capital.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, in his presentation to the House, all but confirmed, that the money is being used as budgetary support.

According to Minister Bharrat, the $126B would be placed into the Consolidated Fund—the account that will fund each programme outlined in the budget.

Bharrat told members of the House, however, that in the coming week, members of the Opposition would be given every opportunity to question specifically, which

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill programs will be funded using oil funds.

The issue was first raised on Day One of the Budget Debate when the first opposition speaker to present—Amanza WaltonDesir—pointed out that nowhere in the Budget estimates was there any clear outline as to what exactly the $126B would be funding.

According to Bharrat, the money is being transferred to the Consolidated Fund and the only way money is accessed from the Consolidated Fund is through an Appropriation Act—an Act of Law authorizing government spending on the approved programs for the year in the annual budgets.

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Opposition ready to support renegotiation of Exxon contract - Govt says PSA is the worst crime committed against Guyanese

By Gary Eleazar The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that was signed between the Government of Guyana and Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)—ExxonMobil Guyana—and their partners to develop hydrocarbon resources in the Stabroek Block represents the worst crime committed against Guyana and the Guyanese people.

This declaration was made yesterday during the fourth day of Budget Debates in the National Assembly, by Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat. Although lamenting the PSA being the worst crime against Guyanese, there was no mention of a renegotiation— a proposal that was made to the House minutes earlier by the Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson.

The Alliance for Change

(AFC) Member of Parliament, in his presentation to the House on the oil and gas sector had offered the opposition’s support to the government with regard the renegotiation of the PSA, commonly referred to as the ExxonMobil Contract.

Patterson—who preceded Bharrat’s presentation to the Debates—had lambasted the administration over its mismanagement of the sector since taking Office.

Bharrat in defense of the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) stewardship of the industry said when the party took office, the industry was floating adrift since there was no proper framework in place to effectively manage the industry. He contended it had been treated as a one man show, later shifting from Ministry to Ministry.

MISFEASANCE Patterson accused the

administration of not only aiding and abetting the fleecing of Guyana’s resources but also of misfeasance in office.

Addressing some of the troubling aspects with regard the stewardship of the industry thus far, Patterson lamented the fact that Guyanese are being sold a product without being able to verify it -something which he said is akin to the colloquial saying, buying pig in a bag.

To this end, Patterson reported that in September 2020, the Commissioner of GRA reported that the audit of Exxon preproduction costs, reportedly some US$460M was completed and handed over to the government. The nation, he said, “was stunned to learn two weeks ago that this is not the case.”

Compounding the situation further, Patterson noted that 15 months later, after not making a single

Albouystown man remanded for murder of step-son Thirty-year-old Shawn Bobb, a construction worker of Lot 252 Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, Georgetown, was on Thursday remanded to prison for the murder of his 19-year-old step-son, Isaiah Edwards.

Bobb made his first court appearance before Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleges that on January 27, 2022, in Georgetown, he killed his step-son, a construction worker of East La Penitence, Squatting Area, Georgetown.

Kaieteur News reported that Edwards was stabbed on Wednesday January 26, but succumbed to his injuries at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown on Thursday January 27.

Senior Magistrate Nurse remanded Bobb to prison and the matter was adjourned to February 11, 2022. The matter was transferred to Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan.

It is alleged that Bobb stabbed Edwards who was trying to defend his mother.

The police reported that the incident occurred on Wednesday around 18:30hrs. It was reported that the teen’s stepfather began assaulting his mother because she had not

public comment, “the government now wants us to believe that the process undertaken by the international auditors and supervised by GRA was defective.”

As such, he suggested that “even if that was the case, why wait 15 months to inform the public? Why has this not been a matter of urgency for the government? After all, an audit of the claimed preproduction costs, would have provided an invaluable insight to the billing practices of the operator.”

According to Patterson, government’s continued failure to audit Exxon’s US$9.5B spending “is tantamount to the Government aiding and abetting the fleecing of Guyana’s resources.”

He continued further, saying the PPPC’s excuse that the process has been stymied because of the absence of strong local groups to do the audits, “is quite frankly unacceptable.”

The AFC Speaker with the Oil and Gas portfolio told members of the House, it is estimated that an audit of Exxon expense claims can garner savings of up to US$1B, “far more than the US$604M being removed from the Natural Resources Fund.”

He was adamant, “failure to do these audits is a commission of wrongdoing and misfeasance in office. No

excuse or political grandstanding will absolve the Government of this grave sin against the nation.”

According to Patterson, “no one buys a bottle of water that is not full, because you can see through the container; No one buys fruits from our local vendors if the product is visibly damaged.”

VERIFICATION He noted however, if you buy a bottle of cooking gas, “you cannot see if you are getting value unless the bottle is weighed on a standard scale, or unless you believe the seal has been properly set and has not been tampered with.”

According to Patterson, “this is what the government is asking our nation to accept, a product from a supplier without verification.”

He said too, there have been repeated public requests for the Ministry of Natural Resources to provide the

daily production information “for the oil, we are paying Exxon to explore for, to drill for, to store and mostly to sell for us.” To date, Patterson said, there is still no information. “There are no figures to perform analysis on.

No production data which can be tabulated with the corresponding oil prices to ensure that we are receiving value for our oil. So, the Guyanese citizen, the main stakeholder in all of this, remains in ignorance and cannot check what we are told.”

He concluded that “this lack of transparency dominates the PPPC’s activities in the Oil and Gas sector and quite frankly characterizes the PPC’s activities in general and should be concerning all stakeholders wherever they may be.”

To this end, the AFC Executive told members of the government, the opposition will support new systems of governance which would facilitate “world-class” management in all areas of our economy and society.

Guyana, he said, has been extraordinarily blessed, “let us use our blessings not just to calculate averages that look good on paper, while the standard of living of our people is declining, but rather, with wisdom to improve the lives of all our citizens, while positively impacting our region.”

11 patients in COVID-19 ICU, 291 new cases

Remanded, Shawn Bobb. finished cooking.

As such, the teen intervened and sustained stab wounds.

This publication understands that Bobb reportedly became annoyed and picked up a knife and attacked the teen and his mother. This resulted in the teen being stabbed to his right hip.

Bobb fled the scene while Isaiah and his mother were rushed to the GPHC by relatives. While there, tests were conducted on the injured woman and her son. However, only the son’s result showed positive for COVID-19. He was transferred to the Liliendaal facility where he subsequently died. Subsequently, a wanted bulletin was

issued for the suspect, and on January 29, 2022, ranks in Regional Division 4 ‘C’ acting on information received, went to a house at Helena No.1 Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, where they apprehended Bobb.

It was reported that upon the arrival of police around 19:20 hours, Bobb was seen jumping through a glass window, dressed as a female, with makeup on his and a wig on his head. He was placed in handcuffs and escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was given medical attention.

Bobb was later charged for the offence and placed before the court.

With no new COVID-19 fatality recorded, the Ministry of Health on Thursday reported that a total of 11 patients are admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), receiving treatment.

In the last 24 hour period, the Ministry recorded 291 new COVID-19 infections, taking the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 60,676.

A breakdown of new cases per region shows that Region Four leads with 87 new cases, Region Nine with 62 cases, Region One with 39 cases, Regions Two and Six with 30 cases each, Region Three with 28 cases, Region Five with 10 cases, Region 10 with four cases and Region Seven with one case.

According to data provided in its latest dashboard, there are 132 persons in institutional isolation, 5,768 in home isolation and 15 in institutional quarantine.

To date a total of 53,600 persons have recovered from the virus.

PAGE 22

FOR RENT VACANCY Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles,age 2350 car/van licence.Call:6429823.

WANTED FOR RENT One female able bodied worker.Tel:225-2313,2261497.

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

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

One general domestic Covid19 vaccinated for Tuesday & Saturday between Cove & John Unity E.C.D.Tel:2590953/623-3231.

Car Wash Staff.Tel:649-7371.

VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Nissan pathfinder in good condition, CAT 215 used parts.Tel:683-7225/275-0367.

Unregistered 2012 Toyota Fielder Wagon (Blue). Tel: 654-1903,222-2381.

One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable.

Contact:649-0956.

Professional Soup cooks and kitchen assistance and professional kichen manager, good pay.Shot hrs.Call:6751509.

1 day per week-Handyman, 1 part-time domestic. Experienced required from Grove/ Diamond.Tel:637-5723.

Dishwasher,Puri/Roti cooks.

Apply at Shanta’s,225 Camp & New Market St G/Town.

Looking for someone to look after an elderly person & to live in,age over 50.Tel:6199398.

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040

Experience waitress live around Ogle,18-25 yrs $20,000 wkly.Tel:610-3974.

Minibus and Taxi drover.

Tel:225-3234.

VACANCY FOR SALE Household items.Call:6913467,whatsapp 661-1417.

Cashiers & Supermarket helpers at Nirva Super Store. Apply in person,49 Sheriff & Craig St.Tel:227-5771.

One office clerk,must be computer literate record keeping.

Send CV to Durban Quarries Inc. Tel:608-2241/608-2240/ 220-0912.

FOR RENT 1-2 bedroom apt to rent for single person,3 road st C/ Town.Tel:223-9677.

TO LET Rooms to let in Albertown.

Tel:225-3234.

WANTED Wanted skilled carpenters, mason & labourers to work in G/Town & Linden. Contact:615-7526/602-9469/6606385.

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

One clerk for TSI Eccles Office,English & Maths grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to tech serigy@yahoo.com.

Maid to cook and clean for East Bank areaa.Call:6159132.

Fitter Machinist,Welder fabricator,Mechanic,Apprentice & Male cleaner.Three year’s experience.Call:642-9823 or email: techserigy @yahoo .com.

Crimson Bat Hotel,hiring a housekeeper.Send/Drop application to 633 Industrial Area, Linden. Contact:4442102.

One female to work for two weeks from 7th-19th February. Call:226-2320 or 193 Charlotte St G/Town.

Vacancy exists for Water Delivery Driver and Porter for E.C.D.Tel:676-1363/692-6768.

24hrs monitoring of off-shore activities...

From page 8 have been procured to monitor the offshore operations, it would appear as though the tools are “sitting idle”. In this regard the specialist sug-

gested, “We should learn from our neighbour, Suriname, that has a fraction of our oil resources. They have 24 hour, seven days a week in-person monitoring for oil production.

In fact, the former head of Suriname's national oil company, in a recent media interview, has advised us to put in place a similar monitoring system”.

Pigeons take over Kuru-Kururu Primary School...

From page 18 complained about. According to the parent, “I noticed that there are indeed pigeons dwelling in the school. I took a walk through the building after the meeting and noticed there were pigeon sh*t in the front and back classrooms of the school building. The sight was not a pleasant one. I found it very unhygienic, unpleasant and very unacceptable for our children and our teachers to be working in. I certainly do not feel pleased about the working conditions

that the teachers and students have to be dealing with on a regular basis”. As though the disturbing occurrence was not enough, the parent noted that she also observed that the furniture was placed very close to each other, which she assumed was to avoid the frequent waste being expelled on students.

The parent said in a public post that she observed that the pigeons may have been gaining entrance into the building through vents and broken louvre windows.

“As a concerned parent of the above mentioned school, I'd be grateful if the Ministry of Education can look into this matter as soon as possible,” she urged.

A teacher who is attached to the school confirmed the worrying state of affairs and even noted that the situation has been affecting the school since before the Corona Virus outbreak. In fact, the teacher said staff welcomed the news of the closure of school, due to the unpleasant situation.

The educator noted that

efforts were made by the Head Teacher to have the Ministry address the situation.

Kaieteur News was told that the Ministry had installed wire mesh in sections of the building to avoid the birds from entering. However, this measure was not successful.

The Public Relations Officer of the Ministry, Murtland Halley, when contacted said he could not confirm whether a report was made to the Minister. He did assure that an update would be provided on the matter shortly.

Oil production ship explodes off Nigeria,10...

From page 17 Phase One Project in the absence of full coverage insurance. Next month, Guyana will be starting up its second oil ship called the Liza Unity. It will be producing 220,000 barrels of oil from the Liza Phase Two Project. Despite numerous calls from local and regional actors, neither the PPP/ C Government nor ExxonMobil have made any effort to give Guyana full coverage insurance to protect its environs and citizens from the irreversible and devastating effects of a potential oil spill.

In fact, Guyana's regulator, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), quietly made modifications to the Liza Phase Two Project's Environmental Permit which preserved a provision allowing only ExxonMobil's limited liability company, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), to cover costs for any spill or pollution that occurs. This also obtains in the permit for the Payara Project which comes on stream next year.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who has claimed on

numerous occasions to have the citizen's interest at heart, has also failed to demand full coverage insurance from ExxonMobil which the country is entitled to. Instead, he has said the administration is looking to get Exxon to “acknowledge” that it has a commitment to protect the environment. Towards this end, he said negotiations are in play for a possible US$2B coverage for Exxon's fourth project called Yellowtail.

Earlier this week the Kaieteur News reported that a judge in Peru Friday last, barred four executives from Spanish oil company, Repsol, from leaving the country amid the devastating oil spill which saw more than 6,000 barrels of crude contaminating the shores of Peru.

Kaieteur News reported that 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 oil 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 unloading 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.

As a result of the oil spill, several Peruvian officials had called for the Spanish oil giant to compensate for what they described as an 'ecological disaster' that has occurred in Lima in recent times. However, according to Peruvian media reports, Repsol officials have denied the liability for the spill and also called it an accident. According to Peruvian media, a Specialized Prosecutor for Environmental Matters for aLima, Noroeste, approached the Peruvian court, seeking an order to prevent four Repsol executives from leaving the country. It was reported that the prosecutor was considering a criminal case against the company's representatives and as such he approached the district court to issue an order preventing the Repsol executives from leaving the country – in order to ensure

that they will be available for any possible criminal proceedings. Based on the prosecutor's submission to the court, Judge Romualdo Aguedo on Friday granted the order to prevent the four executives from leaving the country. Peruvian media reported that Judge Aguedo imposed an 18-months 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 Mackenzie; environmental manager, Gisela Cecilia Posadas Jhong; and production manager, José Gregorio Reyes Ruiz. It was reported that the lawyers for the Repsol executives did not appeal the decision and said that they will collaborate with the investigation. Additionally, Peru's Agency for Environmental Assessment and Enforcement (OEFA) alleges that Repsol has not complied with orders related to the cleanup effort for these areas, and the agency has issued an initial fine of $4.8 million.

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 23

Cutlass-wielding man barges into Berbice school to fight student Students and teachers of t h e Vr y m a n ' s E r v e n Secondary School in New Amsterdam, Berbice, were in shock last week when a cutlass-wielding man stormed the compound in search of a student he is said to have had a grouse with.

The man was able to make his way as far as the corridor of the building in search of the student. The incident which was not reported by the school's administration officially has raised several concerns as it relates to the security aspect of the school. Regional Chairman, David Armogan,

told media operatives on Thursday, that the incident occurred just about a week ago when the individual armed with a cutlass was seen “running through” the school in search of a male student.

He disclosed that it was a video that was provided to the regional administration that informed them of the incident and as such efforts were made to get the police involved.

“It was somebody who lives in the community running into the corridor of that school with a cutlass in his hand apparently fighting with a student”, he revealed.

The Vrymans Erven Secondary School

Armogan pointed out that based on information provided to him, the suspect is a former student of the school, but is known for loitering around the school with other male individuals.

He added that systems have since been put in place to ensure no reoccurrence and as such, "both the police and the guard service... are strengthening security in that area.”

Recommendations have also been made to strengthen the administration of the school, “because once the administration gets stronger a lot of disciplinary measures

need to be put in place to make sure that people are properly disciplined. We get big issues at that school and we are going to solve them.”

Meanwhile, in another incident at the Berbice High School where two female

students were seen on video engaged in an argument which resulted in another breaking down into tears, the Regional Education Officer, Bhagmattie La Cruz, has indicated that the matter has engaged their administration

and that recommendations were made to have the video removed. "The parents were invited in and it was amicably resolved...recommendations were made to have the video removed and I was told that was done", she said.

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Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

Pipeline for Gas-to-Shore project

is more expensive option

…confirmed by cheaper EU/Israel Project halted over cost concerns - Opposition

By Gary Eleazar Budget 2022 is filled with throwing money at issues without proper analysis, a deduction made by Alliance for Change (AFC) General Secretary, David Patterson when he delivered his Budget presentation to the National Assembly for 2022 and dealt with the controversial issue of the proposed Gas to Shore Initiative now pegged at some US$1.3B. Patterson in a scathing condemnation of the administration’s approach to the project sought to outline that it was being pursued in the absence of detailed analysis and studies— analysis that would have highlighted the fact that Guyana is pursuing a more expensive path.

To this end, he drew reference to a recently halted gas pipeline project due to

cost concerns—a project that would have seen gas being transported at 30 percent less than what is being proposed in Guyana.

He was at the time referencing a proposed 1,800 km pipeline designed to transport 1.2 billion cubic feet of gas per day between Israel and the European Union (EU), that has since been put on hold.

“Paused partly because of concerns of a lack of financial feasibility expressed by both the Israeli and the US Governments.

This concern about feasibility for that pipeline project should have raised a red flag for our Guyana pipeline project, since the EU pipeline would be transporting gas at more than 30 per cent less cost than our pipeline project.” He used the occasion to remind that just

last week the government refused to do a proper analysis of the pipeline proposal for bringing gas to shore, and to allow the Parliamentary Natural Resources Committee to assess its viability, “which is another glaring example of poor governance.”

According to Patterson, a detailed study of this project would show that the pipeline solution proposed is simply not the best to utilize our natural gas resources.

Qualifying his position, Patterson sought to outline that the pipeline, gas to shore solution is much too expensive.

“It is transporting gas for electricity generation at a cost of about US$4.50 per million Btu. A cost for transportation that exceeds the average market price for gas

worldwide over the past year.

This cannot and will not result in cheaper electricity for our nation.”

According to Patterson, had government agreed to further studies into this project, “they would have likely been made aware that in some scenarios, transporting gas in the form of compressed natural gas (CNG) to shore by ISO Containers is much more cost effective than a pipeline.”

He suggested too that a study would likely have brought to light that transporting gas to shore by ISO containers would be almost 75 percent cheaper than by a pipeline.

“Further studies would also likely have brought to light that the ISO Container method of transporting gas has the possibility of opening huge export markets for

Guyana into CARICOM and Brazil.”

According to Patterson, had the government been more willing to “conduct a more detailed analysis, they would have discovered that a private sector company has a take or pay contract with a power generating company in Central America to supply CNG by ISO Container for electricity generation, and has applied to the US Department of Energy for approval to ship CNG to Central America and the Caribbean by this method using its technology and experience in the use of this method of gas transportation.”

As such, he was adamant, the opportunities to utilize Guyana’s gas reserves are enormous and “as we have stated before, the opposition will lend our support to the

Government in negotiations with the Stabroek Block Operators in getting, a better oil contract, lowest price for the gas, and better conditions for the Guyanese public.”

Subject Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, in his rebuttal however, insisted that government would be pressing ahead with the Gas to Shore initiative because it is being viewed as a project that would not only transform the landscape of the country and reduce cost of living but would also bring about significant opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.

To this end, he sought to remind that one of Guyana’s biggest bugbears with regard the manufacturing industry is the cost of power and reliability of power.

Further defending the pursuit of the project in its current form, Bharrat was adamant the project will result in electricity prices being slashed by half in addition to the reduced emissions to be realised.

Govt. to improve PSA for CGX’s latest discovery

V

ice President, Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed on Thursday that the latest discovery made at the Kawa-1 well in the Corentyne Block will no doubt accelerate pressure on government to now get its model Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) in place once and for all.

Acknowledging that the PPP/C Government is prepared to rise to the occasion, Dr. Jagdeo was keen to note that the model PSA will address issues such as higher royalty rates, the need for ring fencing provisions, as well as those related to taxes.

Speaking with members of the media at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC), the Vice President said, “CGX Energy Inc. has found oil and there may be now increased pressure because if they move swiftly to

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo production then we will have to get a model PSA in place.”

The former Head of State said work on the PSA was put on the back burner since ExxonMobil was the lone explorer marking all the commercial discoveries in the Stabroek Block.

The Vice President said, “So there is urgency now to move to a model PSA that would correct many of the things we find are wrong with the last one that was signed with Exxon (the Stabroek Block PSA). And all new entrants would have to subscribe to the new conditions. I don’t want to get into too many details but issues raised such as high royalty rate, and ring fencing, those have to be looked at; tax treatment and a whole range of other issues have to be looked at.”

He added, “There are about 10 or 11 areas we identified to look at and they have to do with the fiscal terms.”

He alluded, nonetheless, that when the time arrives, the government would be ready to engage with CGX and its partner, Frontera.

It was on Monday, Canadian oil explorers, CGX Energy Inc. and Frontera Energy Corporation, disclosed that a dis-

covery was made at the Kawa1-well in the Corentyne Block.

The joint venture partners noted that the Kawa-1 well encountered approximately 177 feet (54 metres) of hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs within Maastrichtian, Campanian and Santonian horizons based on initial evaluation of Logging While Drilling (LWD) data. It was drilled to a depth of 21,578 feet (6,578 metres) and targeted the easternmost Campanian and Santonian channel/lobe complex on the northern section of the Corentyne Block.

The partners said these intervals are similar in age and can be correlated using regional seismic data to recent successes in Block 58 in Suriname and Stabroek Block in Guyana. The well also encountered hydrocarbon bearing sands in deeper strata (Coniacian or older). The companies said this will also be analysed and could become the target of future appraisal opportunities.

It was further noted that the net pay and fluid properties of the hydrocarbons across the shallow and deep reservoirs will now be confirmed with electric wire line logging and fluid sampling, with results to be disclosed as soon as practicable.

Frontera and CGX were keen to note that the Kawa-1 results support the geological and geophysical models used while noting that they have helped de-risk equivalent targets in other parts of

the Corentyne licence area.

The end of well forecast is currently projected to be the end of February 2022.

The Canadian duo said information on final well cost estimates and additional results will be announced upon completion of end of well activities. CGX, this newspaper understands, is currently assessing several strategic opportunities to obtain additional financing to meet the costs of the drilling programme. Professor Suresh Narine, Executive Co-Chairman of CGX’s Board of Directors, commented that the results from the Kawa-1 well represent a positive milestone in the CGX journey as a pioneer oil and gas explorer in the Guyana Basin. “Together with our partner Frontera, CGX looks forward to continuing our socially and environmentally conscious approach to the development of Guyana’s oil and gas industry and port infrastructure. We are proud of our long partnership with the Government and People of Guyana and of our reputation as Guyana’s Indigenous Oil Company,” Narine expressed.

As for Orlando Cabrales, Chief Executive Officer of Frontera, he said, “We are very pleased to have successfully drilled the Kawa-1 well with our partner CGX. I commend the significant efforts of all the talented employees and contractors involved and their dedication to helping this partnership achieve this important milestone. We now

have the ability to focus our efforts on potentially transformational opportunities and to continue our positive relationship with the Government and People of Guyana.”

NEXT WELL ON THE CARDS Building on its recent offshore positive results at the Kawa-1 exploration well, the joint venture partners anticipate spudding its second commitment well, called Wei1, in the northwestern part of the Corentyne Block in the second half of 2022.

They have since exercised their option to use the Maersk Discoverer semi-submersible mobile drilling rig for the Wei-1 well.

The partners were keen to note that this is an important step from a health and safety, efficiency, and operational perspective and will maintain both continuity in the exploration programme during a period of high demand in the region and consistency in working with a team familiar with the rig.Kaieteur News understands that the Wei-1 exploration well will target Campanian and Santonian aged stacked channels in the western fan complex in the northern section of the Corentyne Block.

The Wei-1 well is named after one of the tallest peaks in the Pakaraima mountain range, which has commanding visibility over the surrounding terrain. Wei Tepu was historically used as a sentinel post by the Patamona people to guard against attacks.

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

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PPP pulls funding for construction of new Wismar/Mackenzie bridge, RDC building Region 10 Member of Parliament, Devin Sears, called out the government for ignoring the projects submitted by councillors of the Regional Democratic Council that formed part of the requests made by residents following community engagement.

In addressing the National Assembly on Wednesday, Sears, accused the current administration of ignoring representations made by Region 10's councillors on behalf of the people. “The Regional Democratic Council #10 (RDC) has never concurred with some aspects of the final budget submission.

The hard-working subcommittees of the RDC met with the administrative arm. Unfortunately, however, many of the submissions that were originally identified by the residents were removed.

Once presented to the Ministry of Finance, directives were given to remove projects, several important elements critical to this region's development,” Sears claimed.

According to the Region 10 MP, projects that were removed by the PPP/C Administration included the construction of a new Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge and a new RDC#10 building,

the Saint John's Ambulance Brigade, ICT and other training programmes for youths and single parents, the Linden Economic Network funding and board, the Linden Hospital Board and the purchasing of a new fire tender for Kwakwani, among others.Sears noted, “There is no longer decentralization of Government, because now the PPP is instructing the NDCs and municipalities on how to function. So clearly the views of the people are not being considered.

This is not the people's budget anymore. It has become a Freedom House budget!”

He pointed that the education gap continues to grow, between persons in the hinterland and on the coast.

“Mr. Speaker, the Minster of Education will boast that all resource materials are posted on the ministry's website.

How can the students and teachers access same when the government did not maintain the internet hubs in the indigenous and rural villages?” he questioned.

Sears added that while unemployment has been a major issue for the people of Region 10, the residents and regional officials have been using tourism to fuel income.

However, he noted that help is needed from the

- MP Sears tells House g overnment to push one of the anticipated transformative sectors within the region.

He highlighted that residents would like to be the beneficiaries of an Eco Lodge at Rockstone and Cabins at Great falls, tax breaks which would encourage investments in the hotel industry, and an annual subvention for the regional tourism committees.

The regional MP indicated that while regional authorities have continuously asked that contracts be given to contractors within the region, the opposite continues to be done by the government.

Sears noted that Region 10 or any other region, “should not be short-changed of resources that saw a trajectory path of progress over the past years under APNU+AFC.” Speaking generally on the budget, Sears posited that Budget 2022 does not seek to reduce the disparities in the distribution of Guyana's wealth and income.

Instead, it will extend the gap between the rich and poor, undermining the country's economic

d e v e l o p m e n t . “ We understand the context in which the budget for 2022 has been developed; a lot of fluff with bluffs.

However, we are concerned that the current budget will not adequately address the economic fallout and the rising inequality that have worsened since the onset of Covid-19,” he stated.

Region 10 Member of Parliament, Devin Sears

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Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

Friday February 04, 2022

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Kaieteur News

GABF commends Government on 2022 budget allocation for sports

Nicholas Pooran and Akeal Hosein

Friday February 04, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If there's something crafty or artsy you've had your eye on and would really like to get but can't afford, Aries, consider making it.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) It's the perfect day to get up and head outside, Taurus. You’ll likely find yourself feeling positive and energetic, and some fresh air, sunshine, and physical activity may be long overdue.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) It won't be surprising if you find yourself getting frustrated with a close friend or partner today who is far less ambitious than you, Gemini.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) See about using your good relationships with friends and loved ones today to get some group activities going, Cancer. Chances are you'll feel pretty good and the idea of socializing will appeal to you.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If you're lacking a regular exercise routine, Leo, today's a great day to turn that around. Exercise doesn't have to wear you out or hurt.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Put your ambition into action today, Virgo. The day's planetary aspects should find you feeling energetic and positive. Make the most of this by taking steps toward your goals.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Don't hesitate when it comes to taking on a project or making plans today, Libra. Extra energy will complement your organizational skills, making the perfect combination to handle almost anything.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today should go well for you, Scorpio. Expect to feel a renewed energy and perspective on things, especially those that are work related.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today you may notice that you're feeling very creative and ambitious, Sagittarius.

You might want to use these strengths to work directly on an artistic project.

Or you may choose to channel that energy into activities like organizing your home or workspace.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Don't be surprised if you wake up feeling super today, Capricorn. Chances are good that you'll feel a renewed physical strength with energy to spare.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) The effect from the planetary aspects will bring an end to any lethargy you've been feeling, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Take charge of your overall health today, Pisces. You’ll likely wake up feeling energetic and well.

The Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) commended the Government of Guyana on the record-breaking fund allocation to the transformation of sports in Guyana in the 2022 National Budget.

The 2022 National Budget as presented by Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister with responsibilities for Finance under the Office of the President, has seen an almost 50% increase in funds being allocated for the development of sports in Guyana with $2.2B this year as opposed to the $1.5B in 2021.

The GABF was categorized as one of the twelve core sports and has been working closely with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. and

the NSC’s Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle.

The GABF would also like to take this opportunity to thank the National Sports Commission for funding received in 2021 for the Senior Men’s National team campaign at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Qualifier in El Salvador and the Senior Men and Women’s 3x3 national teams’ participation in the FIBA 3x3 AmeriCup in Miami, USA. The GABF has presented its 2022-2027 Strategic Development Plan to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and is excited about the future of sports and basketball in Guyana. Guyana is scheduled to compete in a number of international youth qualifiers in this year including the

FIBA U15 and U17 Centrobasket Championships for Boys and Girls, and the FIBA Centrobasket Women’s Championship in San Juan, Puerto Rico along with the 3x3 Basketball tournaments at the 2022 Caribbean Games in Guadeloupe, the South American Youth Games in Asunción, Paraguay, the International School Sport Federation Games in Normandy, France and the FIBA 3x3 AmeriCup senior and U17 tournaments in Miami, USA and Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The rehabilitation of our infrastructure will make Guyana a hosting destination for international competitions, which will also complement the sports tourism sector.

Egypt beat Cameroon...

From page 29 backpass to take him through on goal, but was foiled by goalkeeper Andre Onana flying out of his area.

Karl Toko Ekambi’s glancing header was then straight at Gabaski, while Gouet’s powerful drive was close as the game went into extra time.

Middlesbrough midfielder Lea Siliki’s freekick from out wide almost sailed in, landing on the roof of the net, but the contest went to penalties.

Gabaski, who stepped u p a f t e r E g y p t ’s f i r s t choice keeper Mohamed El Shenawy was injured in their last-16 win over Ivory Coast, provided the heroics to ensure his side won their sixth shootout in a row to progress.

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Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAHF Ordinary Congress 2022…

Federations encouraged to work together to foster development

F

ollowing the Pan American Hockey Federation’s (PAHF) Ordinary Congress which was hosted in Santiago, Chile, bold efforts are being made to assist with the development of younger hockey nations while being under the constant threat of the pandemic.

Guyana was represented at the Ordinary Congress by President of the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB), Philip Fernandes, who, like the other Pan Am nations, believe that the PAHF has been doing an astute job in developing the sport in a manner which they have perceived.

Our representative said: “There was a lot of discussion in terms of development of the younger nations in the Pan Am and not only discussions on what resources could be applied to assist those nations, but how best to utilize those resources. It is a fact that the top nations of the world are distancing themselves from the rest and we know that it’s largely comes down to their budgets.

And then of course, who spends it more wisely.”

“So there is an effort to restart a Caribbean Championship, which may allow the nations from the Caribbean, especially who cannot travel

far and wide to expose the players to be able to have more regional competition and therefore better prepare their teams; and the Pan Am is trying to see what they could make available in terms of budget to carry off events such as this,” Fernandes stated. The long standing President is hopeful that with the focus of development and narrowing that gap between the developed nations and the others, that a great degree of effort is put forth for hockey in the region, especially countries like Guyana, who definitely have the talent and the will but not necessarily the funding to do what is necessary.

Fernandes added that there were several things outlined as far as what was achieved and what could not be achieved, especially due to the pandemic.

“Going forward; the Pan Am Federation has indicated that while there is a lot of uncertainty about the easing of the pandemic and the relaxing of restrictions, the plans are to continue to conduct all hockey activities in regard to the COVID regulations currently in place.”

During the Congress, for two weeks spanning that period, there was a successful Pan Am Cup being held in

Chile for men’s and women’s teams. This was a qualifier for the hockey world cup.

The tournament went off without a hitch.

The teams were all tested and placed in a bubble as were the officials.

Spectators were allowed, but had to adhere to COVID regulations.

Whe n t h e e v e n t w a s concluded Argentina, Chile and Canada were the countries that qualified for the World Cup in both divisions. “ S i m i l a r l y, g l o b a l l y, hockey is returning to the fore, where the Hockey Pro League, which features the top teams of the world traveling and playing home and away series against each other, has been restarted,” he said.

“This will take place under similar conditions with teams being in a bubble. So we anticipate that until the COVID restrictions are relaxed that we will have similar competitions like this.

Fortunately, it seems like players will be able to return to competition, be it under the conditions that we were experiencing.”

Guyana was represented at the PAHF Ordinary Congress by GHB President, Philip Fernandes.

‘All 15 players eligible for selection...

From page 32 done well against the Windwards over the years and in my last game against them I scored 189 not out,” said Johnson who has six tons and 39 fifties in FirstClass cricket.

Some question why are there three left-arm spinners and no off-spinner in the squad.

Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh have International Cricket and are automatic picks, while the other specialist left-arm spinner in the squad is Essequibian Anthony Adams who has played a solitary First-Class match.

“Addy (Anthony Adams) full deserves his place. He has been getting wickets for a long time at all levels and was very impressive in Trials where he had a five-wicket haul. So yes he has done enough to earn his place in

the side,” explained Johnson, the fifth Guyana Captain to win the title after Kanhai, Lloyd, Roger Harper and Hooper. When asked if he still harbours thoughts of a Test recall Johnson said, “That is up to the selectors but I will go there and give my best and see what happens. Looking at the Test side there are openings there, once I have an outstanding season I think my chances are good as anyone.

My aim is to do well and help Guyana retain the title,” answered the 34-year-old Johnson.

“I don’t think you are too old in your early 30 to get a recall if you produce what is required, especially being a batsman and not a fast bowler.

I have to do my part since it’s only the selectors who can pick me,” said Johnson, who played the last of nine Tests

in 2016.

When asked he was willing to open the batting at Test level which he was asked to in the past, although he was a middle order batsman, Johnson said, “I don’t think if I am recalled I would not bat in that position since the selectors now are of a different mold than those in that period who asked me to open for number three and four.

But if opening is the only opportunity I will take it, but first I have to do well with the bat,” said Johnson who has two Test fifties including 66 on his debut in St Lucia when TV replays confirmed that the Umpire had erred. Johnson scored an unbeaten 189 against the Windwards in Dominica and two half-centuries at an average 41.81to be Guyana leading scorer in the last truncated 2020 season which Barbados won.

Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 29

Egypt beat Cameroon on penalties to set up Senegal final

Mohamed Abou Gabal was the hero as Egypt reached the Africa Cup of Nations final.

BBC Sport - Goalkeeper Gabaski was the hero, saving two penalties as Egypt edged past hosts Cameroon in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw to set up an Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal.

Sunday’s final sets up a tantalising meeting between Liverpool forwards Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane at the same venue - the Olembe Stadium in Cameroon’s capital Yaounde (kick-off 19:00 GMT).

Hosts Cameroon had shown more impetus in 90 minutes, twice hitting the post through Michael NgadeuNgadjui’s looping header and Samuel Gouet’s thunderous long-range strike, which flicked the woodwork.

Egypt’s star man Salah was kept quiet for much of the game, curling a strike from outside the area narrowly over and almost profiting from a loose back pass, but he could not convert.

But he did not have to step up in the shootout as Cameroon missed three of their efforts, with Gabaski saving from Harold Moukoudi and James Lea Siliki, while Clinton N’Jie sidefooted wide.

An ill-tempered ending to normal time had seen Egypt coach Carlos Queiroz sent off for remonstrating with the referee and his assistant Wael Gomaa cautioned too.

It means they will both be missing from the touchline for the final as Gomaa was also yellow carded in the quarterfinal against Morocco.

Meanwhile, Cameroon will face Burkina Faso in the third/ fourth-place play-off, which has been brought forward a day to Saturday (19:00 GMT).

Egypt gain revenge over Cameroon This was a meeting between the two most successful teams in the competition’s history with record seventime winners Egypt up against Cameroon.

The hosts had triumphed on five occasions with the last of those coming in 2017 when they defeated Thursday’s opponents 2-1 in the final, but Egypt gained revenge on this occasion.

As well as pitting club team-mates Salah and Mane up against each other, the final will be the first of three meetings between Egypt and Senegal over the next two months as they also contest a two-legged play-off for a place at the World Cup in Qatar.

There was a feisty buildup to this meeting as Cameroon legend, and now the football federation’s

president, Samuel Eto’o referred to the game in a speech as a “war”.

But Egypt boss Queiroz felt it was a “bad message” particularly after eight people had died and 38 more injured in a crush at the Olembe Stadium.

All eyes were on Salah, who curled narrowly over after eight minutes, but Cameroon were the dominant side as Ngadeu-Ngadjui’s looping header hit the post and the defender miscued from six yards following the resulting corner. Salah had a sniff in the second half when he latched onto a poor (Continued on page 27)

Mohamed Salah (C) celebrates with teammates after a penalty shoot-out win over hosts Cameroon (AFP/CHARLY TRIBALLEAU)

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Kaieteur News

2022 Bounty Farm Handicap Squash Tournament…

Quarterfinal stage unfolds tonight Four days of grueling competition in 2022 Bounty Farm Handicap Tournament are already completed with only three days left to be contested at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts. The tournament which continues this evening from 17:30 hrs has reached the quarterfinal stage in Championships and Plates formats, with the semis and finale scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the same venue. In Handicap Championships, Alex Arjoon and Josh Verwey will battle in the opening match at 17:30 hrs then Ian Mekdeci locks horns with Mohryan Baksh at 18:00 hrs. Michael Alphonso and Shiloh Asregado occupy the court at 18:30 hrs then

Mohryan Baksh Gabrielle Fraser challenges Steven Xavier at 19:00 hrs.

These eight players all claimed two comfortable victories each to advance to the knockout round, but half of

the lot will find the exit tonight while the other four advance to the semi-final round. On Thursday evening, the roundof-16 in the Plate Championships unraveled with the fixtures that saw Tian Edwards met Lee Faf, Reagan Rodrigues battled Brian Edwards, Jonathan De Groot faced Dustani Barrow, Stephen Fraser faced off with Jason Van Dijk, Dane Pereira was matched with Andrew Peroune, Brian Yong battled Avinash Oditt and Tony Farnum was paired with Jonathan Antczak. Joshua Abdool was the first from the Plate Championship to enter the quarter final stage since he gained a walk over result in the round of 16.

Friday February 04, 2022

GCA name 20-man squad for DCB Inter Association tournament Following the GCA cricket Clinic/Drills and Trial matches, the GCA selectors chaired by Roderick Lovell has short listed a 20-man squad to participate in the Demerara Cricket Board’s Inter Association tournament which should start shortly.

The following are the names: Omarion Allen, Sameer Bhola, Joshua Charles, Brandon Henry, Narindra Isurdeen, Peter Khan, Ryan Khan, Reyaz Latif, Darwin La Rose, Emanuel Lewis, Jonathan Mentore, Dave Mohabir, Nicholas Nieuelder, Dhanesh Persaud, Shane Prince, Lomar Seecharran, Kishan Silas, Ravin Singh, Nicholas Sulker and Kwesi Wilkinson. However, as we continue our preparation with net sessions and practice matches for the DCB Inter Association tournament, the first such friendly match, which is part of our preparation, will see GCA XI feature in a Friendly match vs Berbice XI on Saturday February 5, 2022 at DCC ground. The Match starts at 9:30 am. (Sean Devers)

Dave Mohabir has looked the one of the best batsmen in the squad. (Sean Devers photo)

Friday February 04, 2022

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Kaieteur News

Wakenaam Royal Strikers U19 overcome South Side U19 in 25-over fixture Wakenaam Royal Strikers U19 defeated South Side U19 of East Bank Essequibo by 103 runs in a 25-over fixture on Saturday last at G Square Cavaliers Sports Club ground, Belle Plaine, Wakenaam.

Wakenaam Royal Strikers U19 lost opener Gladewin Henry (10) lbw to Natron Gill with the score on 17, after he had struck the pacer for two fours. However, fellow opener Azeer Ramrattan and Toshall Surujpaul added 25 for the second-wicket before Toshall Surujpaul (05) was run out, attempting a second-run.

Ramrattan and Andy Dindyal steadied the innings nicely with an entertaining third-wicket stand of 63.

The left-handed Ramrattan struck five fours and three sixes before he caught off Mark Mohabir for 49, while Dindyal put on another useful partnership of 39 for the fourth-wicket with Mohandass Surujpaul.

Dindyal hammered four fours and three sixes before

he was caught of Ronaldo Scouten for 41 while Sachin Chulai (00) was bowled by Scouten as Wakenaam Royal Strikers U19 lost two wickets in quick succession.

Mohandass Surujpaul hammered three fours and two sixes before he bowled by Sarwan Bishram for a fine 47 while spinner Triven Mohabir picked up two more quick wickets to pegged back the scoring in the latter stages of the innings. However, Tomesh Persaud (11*) and Shahid Mohamed (02*) saw Wakenaam Strikers to 186-9.

Scouten claimed 3-27 and Triven Mohabir 2-37.

Mohandass Surujpaul provided Wakenaam Strikers with the breakthrough when he had Mark Mohabir (00) caught before medium pacer Mohamed had Bishram (00) well caught at mid-wicket by Nazam Mohamed.

Traven Mohabir looked positive as he struck four fours to get chase off in fine fashion, but South Side U19 lost two more quick wickets

Wakenaam Royal Strikers U19 with their winning trophy. Coach Nandkishore Andrews is at left.

including that of skipper Scouten (00), well caught at the wicket by Videsh Ramnarine of Mohandass Surujpaul.

Despite a top score of 43 from Mohabir, wickets continued to fall at regular intervals and South Side U19 were bowled out for 83 in 17.1

overs. Mohabir stroked nine fours as Mohandass Surujpaul captured 2-6, Toshall Surujpaul 2-9 and Gladewin Henry 2-10.

Mohandass Surujpaul was named man-of-the-match.

The game was sponsored by Wakenaam Royal Strikers.

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Friday February 04, 2022

Kaieteur News

‘All 15 players eligible for selection in T&T’ - Johnson Harpy Eagles ready for Windwards next Wednesday

By Sean Devers The Guyana Harpy Eagles have named a strong 15-man squad which includes seven players with International experience to begin their Regional First-Class campaign for a 12th title in Trinidad were they play their first two games, starting with the Windwards Volcanoes next Wednesday.

The squad is scheduled to depart from T&T on Sunday and Leon Johnson, Guyana most successful Captain at this level; winning five consecutive titles, informed that he was confident ahead of Guyana’s opening game.

The squad has 15 players as opposed to the usual 13 due the Covid, but Johnson confirmed that everyone would be eligible for selection.

“We had a few sessions to fine tune things with the last one being today. When we arrive in Trinidad we will have net sessions on Monday and Tuesday before the first game.

So I am backing the guys to use their experience.

We are using the Everest ground for training and fielding drills, while we had net sessions on the pitch which was very good because of U19 World Cup matches here,”

informed Johnson, who has played 117 First-Class games which includes nine Tests.

“In terms of the trial games, the batting has been disappointing. In the first game in Berbice when everybody had just come back from playing no red ball cricket in a long time, that was the best score with the game ending in a draw.

The other two games finished inside two days which was very disappointing from a captain’s point of view.

The batters should have shown more application.

But looking at the final 15 chosen, in the batting we have

a lot of experience there and we are banking on them coming good,” added Johnson, the only Guyanese to score a double at Regional U-19 level.

Johnson says the team is a very good all round side with several two and threedimensional players and that has been the strength over the last few seasons.

“Our bowling has been very good; our fielding has been very good, our batting could have been better in terms of consistency. I think it should be easier to be consistent this season since the tournament is only five rounds from the 10 rounds in the past.

Once you start well it is easier to maintain that form since it is over a shorter period,” said Johnson, who informed that there will be no Quarantine in Trinidad since the players have the approved vaccines and booster shots. All of the players are ‘fit’ (no injuries) and ready and Johnson give an update on Shimron Hetymer, who missed the last two trials on a medical sick leave, saying the Berbician was at the practice sessions from Tuesday and has fully recovered.

Johnson says he has no

Anthony Adams has earned his spot say Skipper Johnson. knowledge of what the pitch in Trinidad would be like, “Usually the pitch at the Queen’s Park Oval has a bit of grass and usually turn a bit on the third and fourth day.”

He is confident that Guyana will start well since their record against the Wind-

wards in the last six seasons and 11 First-Class games, is nine wins, a tie at Providence and a draw. “So yes I am pretty confident but they are a good team so we won’t be taking them for granted. Personally, I have (Continued on page 26)

Kaieteur News

Friday February 04, 2022

PAGE 33

Movements Family overcome 592 in tapeball final Movements Family of Mahdia defeated 592 of Moruca, Santa Rosa in the final of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs tapeball tournament played recently in Region one.

Batting first, 592 managed 82-9 in their allotted 10 overs with Roy Henry scoring 25 and Miket Sutton 12.

Deonarine Seegobin grabbed 4-15 and Keyon Sinclair 2-8. In reply, Movements Family lost three quick wickets before Ricardo Adams and Martin Singh steered their team to victory with three overs to spare.

Singh made 38 not out and Adams an unbeaten 31.

Sutton took 2-9. Earlier, Movements Family beat 592 by 134 runs. Movements won the toss and batted first, scoring 198 for 5 in 12 overs.

Ricardo Adams struck 64

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai (C) and other officials of the sponsors with the victorious Movements Family team and their prizes. with three fours and seven sixes while Omesh Danram made 47 including three fours and fives sixes. The duo added 100 in six overs while Ershad Ali contributed 33 with three sixes. Richard

Boyce had 2 -15. 592 were bowled out for 64 in response. Roy henry scored 29 which contained two fours and three sixes and Boyce 15.

Sinclair had 2-9 and Seegobin 2-12.

Movements Family overcame Kamwatta by 114 runs in another fixture.

Batting first, Movements Family posted 189-2 in 10 overs. Ricardo Adams hammered three fours and 14

sixes in a top score of 109, while Ershaad Ali made 34 with five sixes and Danram 19. D. Booker took 2-31.

Kamwatta were sent packing for 75 in reply.

Booker scored 30 with one

four and three sixes while E. Rodrigues made 23 including three fours and one six.

Seegobin captured 4-14 and Raydon Austin 2-5.

All covid guidelines were observed.

‘All 15 players eligible for selection in T&T’ - Johnson

Shimron Hetmyer has fully recovered and is expected to play a key in the batting line-up.

Leon Johnson has been Guyana Captain since 2014. (Sean Devers photo)

Harpy Eagles ready for Windwards next Wednesday

Egypt beat Cameroon on penalties to set up Senegal final

rt o p S

Egypt’s Mohamed Salah will take on Liverpool team-mate Sadio Mane in Sunday’s final (Sunday Alamba/AP) Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed Abou Gabal (C) saved two penalties in the shoot-out (AFP/Kenzo Tribouillard) 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.