Kaieteur News

$100.7M set aside to review Exxon's th field development plan for 6 project

The People's Progressive Party (PPP) government has made provision in its 2023 Budget to reviewtheFieldDevelopmentPlan (FDP) for the sixth project American oil giant, ExxonMobil plans to pursue in the Stabroek Block.

Natural Resources Minister, VickramBharratsaidlastweekthat $100.7 million is allocated for the review of the Whiptail development.

He explained that Exxon has indicated that the FDP will be submittedtogovernmentlate2023. The 2023 Budget documents were not clear as to the source of financing for this process. This newspaper tried to ascertain these details from Bharrat who was not very useful. He directed Kaieteur News since last week to speak with aspecificmemberofstaffbutwhen asked for the contact information forthatperson,theMinisterdidnot respond to date. Efforts to contact him yesterday were also unsuccessful.

It must be noted that Exxon is yet to receive approval for its fifth project- Uaru+ but government has been supportive of the accelerated rate of production activities, with the recent allocation testimony of thiscommitment.

Field Development Plans (FDPs) are one of the most detailed documents oil companies m u s t s u b m i t t o governments when planning to extract oil or gas resources from a particular field. To ensure a proper interrogation of such a document, countries are expected to h i r e e x p e r i e n c e d specialists in varying fields to ensure the oil or gas development plan is in keeping with international best practices, and most importantly, are not overdesigned to allow for inflatedcosts.

T h e N o r t h S e a Transition Authority (NTSA) states via its guidelines on its website that all FDPs must provideaclearexplanationwhythe development concept being presented is considered optimum from a technical, environmental and economic perspective. The authority also requires that c o m p a n i e s s e t o u t t h e commitments, which they will follow to ensure enhanced oil recoveryandsounddevelopment.

FDPs also include detailed

information,whichthegovernment needs experienced persons to review regarding production technology and well engineering. In this area, government specialists must diligently assess proposed well design concepts including trajectory and location, in flow performance prediction, sand control and sand management, explanation of concept selection and how value for money would be achieved on each component of the

project.When the People's Progressive Party /Civic (PPP/C) had assumed office back in August 2020, it left many industry stakeholders stunned after it approved the Payara project in a mere 42 days.

Central to the speedy review process was a Canadian lawyer and former politician,AlisonRedford.

Transparency advocates as well as the Opposition questioned how such a review, which usually takes a minimum of 12 months to be properly completed, was done in less than two months.

In light of such a glaring red flag, they urged the government to release Redford's review of the developmentplanfortheproject.

Stakeholders said the nation needs to ascertain whether the project was properly scrutinized by the consultant in question. Though therewerepromisesinthemediato do so, the government never fulfilled these.Hoping to break the spell of non-disclosure, the political opposition took to the NationalAssembly last year where it asked Minister Vickram Bharrat

to provide Redford's report to the House.

Unfortunately, the spell of secrecy over the contract remains unbreakable as the government cleverlyavoidedhavingtofulfilthe request made by Opposition Member,DavidPatterson.

Minister Bharrat has since directed Patterson to read the Payara Petroleum Production Licence if he seeks to understand the work done by Redford and the government'ssupportingteam.

Kaieteur News previously reported that Redford was also part of the review process for Exxon's US$10B Yellowtail Project. Her review of the Field Development Plan (FDP) for this project which was done in a record 52 days also came under question by transparencyadvocates.

On January 17, 2023 the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) opened two bids from international consultants vying to review the FDP, for the Company's fifth projectattheUaruoilfield. According to information released from the opening, Bayphase submitted a bid of US$797,480, while Stratoil bid US$709,470, to carry out the review

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat

Schlumberger still persisting

with radioactive facility

...to engage public on restarting operations at Houston

The High Court in December last year ruled that Guyana's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) breached the law to issue a permit to Schlumberger Guyana Inc. to construct a radioactive storage facility at Lot 1 Area 'X' Houston, East Bank Demerara (EBD), without conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment(EIA)first.

J u d g e N a r e s h w a r Harnanan in handing down his ruling not only quashed the EPA's decision to grant permission to the US- owned company to construct and operate the facility, but also ordered that the works at the radioactivestoragefacilitybe halted.

It would therefore mean that the company would have to go through the process as r e q u i r e d b y t h e Environmental Protection Acttoseekpermissionforthe operationstorecommence.

However, in a notice published in one of the daily newspapers on Saturday, Schlumberger indicated that it will be engaging the public regarding the radioactive facilityatHouston.

Notably, the EPA has not informed the public of an application received by the company, as required by law This application is usually submitted with a Project

Summary that serves to notify citizens of the project scope and location among othersandwouldbethebasis for discussions during planned stakeholder engagements.

Efforts made to contact the Executive Director of the EPA, Kemraj Parsram on Sundaywereunsuccessful.

In the meantime, IMEX Inc. - a local environmental service provider to oil and gascompanies-hasindicated thatitwillbehostingapublic stakeholder engagement on behalf of Schlumberger Guyana Inc., regarding the 'Radioactive Source Storage and Calibration Operations' atHouston.

To t h i s e n d , t h e Consultant said citizens, businesses, community representatives and schools of Houston, Agricola, McDoom and D'Aguiar Park are invited to the stakeholder engagement scheduled for February 7, 2023 from 17:00hrs (5pm) to 18:30hrs (6:30pm) at Parc Rayne, Rahaman's Park, East Bank Demerara.

DanutaRadzik,oneofthe applicants who won the case against Schlumberger Guyana Inc. on Sunday told this newspaper that she was surprised when she saw the advertisement in the paper as she believes this move is in contemptoftheCourtruling.

Radzik explained, “We wereverysurprisedtoseethe notice in the newspaper, very surprised, in fact shocked because the Judge had ruled twice that his ruling stands that the Environmental Permit for Schlumberger is cancelled, they do not have a Permit to operate and that an injunctionisinplace.”

She reasoned that this means the company is prohibited from operating and must move and cease operations.

The environmental activist added that when she saw the notice a few days ago, she decided to contact IMEX Inc. to understand the reason for the engagement.

To her surprise, Radzik said she was told, “It was the c o n t i n u a t i o n o f Environmental Management Plan, so I asked them if they knew about a Court ruling because it seems since Schlumberger had ceased operations why would they be hosting a meeting because it could be considered contempt of Court.They said they will pass my concerns ontothelegaldepartmentand that I should contact Schlumberger.”

She explained that back i n J u n e l a s t y e a r, Schlumberger hosted a consultation to engage the public on the Environmental Management Plan as there

Taxi driver runs over drunken cousin lying on road

A27-year-old taxi driver on Friday night accidently ran over his drunken cousin with his car at St. Cuthbert's Mission killing him.

The dead man was identified as 54-yearold Paul Daniels who was reportedly lying ontheroadwhentheaccidentoccurred.

According to police, the incident took place around 21:30hrs while the taxi driver was heading west along the St. Cuthbert's MissionSchemeRoadwithpassengersinhis car

The taxi driver alleged that he had run oversomethingontheroadwhiledrivingbut didn't know what it was until his passengers toldhimthatheranoveraman.

Hestoppedandreportedlyreturnedtothe scene only to find out that he had just run overhiscousin,Daniels.

Public-spirited citizens reportedly picked up Daniels from off the road and

placed him into another car, which immediately transported him to the Mackenzie Public Hospital. Doctors there pronouncedhimdeadonarrivalandhisbody wastransportedtothehospital'smortuary

ItisunclearwhyDanielswaslyingonthe road so late in the evening but according to villagers of St. Cuthbert's Mission he was probablydrunk.

One of them (name provided) told Kaieteur News that Daniels had a habit of “getting drunk and lie down all over the place”.

Policehassincetakenhiscousin,thetaxi driver, into custody to assist with the necessaryinvestigations. Abreathalyzertest conductedonhimaftertheaccidentrevealed thathetoomighthavebeendrivingunderthe influence. Theresultsshowedthathisbreath alcohol content measured .20% and 0.21%, wayabovethelegallimit.

was no EIA conducted Radzik pointed out too that an EIA cannot be done after operations would have commencedmonthsprior

“If you want to get an Environmental Permit from the EPA, it is set out in the EPAAct what must be done. AProject Summary has to be done which is sent to the EPA;theythenissueaNotice that this body or company intends to operate in this way and the EPA has decided to waiver an EIA and therefore people who will be affected have28daysorsotomakean objection, which triggers a hearing So Schlumberger would have to go through the entire process again,” she said.

To this end, the activist argued that the EPA upon seeing this Notice should have alerted the radioactive waste company that they have no permission to operate and are essentially closeddown.

Further,sheurgedthatthe process to restart operations cannot be through IMEX c o n d u c t i n g a n Environmental Management Plan.

As such, Radzik said she will be sending a Lawyer's letter to IMEX concerning theissue.

A senior source at the EPA told Kaieteur News yesterday that they were

unaware of an application made by Schlumberger to restartoperationsatHouston.

The officer explained that theywouldgetthedetailsand confirmtoday(Monday).

It was also explained that there is no harm in engaging the community before operationsrestart.

This newspaper tried reaching the landline number that was attached to the advertisement but efforts weretonoavail.

On January 18, Justice NareshwarHarnananrefused a request by Schlumberger Guyana Inc, (SGI) a major contractor for Exxon Mobil, tostayhisjudgmentwhichhe ruled against the EPA's decision to allow the company to construct and operate a radioactive

chemical facility at Houston, East Bank Demerara (EBD), without an Environmental ImpactAssessment(EIA).

The court documents seen by this newspaper outlined that SGI applied to the Court for the order that the judgment of Justice Harnanan is stayed for a period of two months or alternatively for a period of 28 days so as to permit the company to remove any radioactive sources which it mayhavestoredatitsfacility

The company also asked for an order suspending the injunction granted by the CourtonDecember16,2022, soastopermitSGItoreceive any radioactive sources presently offshore and en route to its facility at Houston,Georgetown.

A section of the Schlumberger Guyana Inc, (SGI) facility at Houston EBD

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS

Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210

Local content

Wealwaysknewthatthiswasgoingtobeapartofwhat Guyanese could expect, in what they would be involved, withtheiroilwealth. Wehaverepeatedlysaidithere,asto what would be an aspect of the lot of Guyanese and their workingrelationshipwithExxonMobilanditspartners,or itsvendors,ifnotalloftheseforeignpresencesoperatingin thiscountry Itisabouttheoiltricklescomingdownwards, thelittledropletsofconsiderationtouchingthemeverynow and again. The confirmation is in the caption, “Exxon shipbuilder looking for Guyanese to help expats move aroundpets,findlivingquarters,setupbankaccounts”(KN February5).

Thesickeningrealityisthatthepeoplewhoownthisoil are being contemplated for the roles of dog walkers, cat watchers, and rabbit groomers. Let us hope that there are neither skunks nor snakes owned by the expats who are employedbythatshipbuildingrelationofExxonthattakes upresidencehere. ButthisiswhatGuyanesetowhomthis massiveoilwealthbelongsarereduced,thehighesteemin whichtheyareheld,thankstoourfeebleandfoolingaround politicians in both the PPP/C Government and the APNU+AFCCoalitionOpposition.

Wehavesomesimplequestions,thatarebothsharpand troubling:isthereanyGuyanese,educatedorunexposedto mattersaboutoil,oftheunderstandingandbeliefthatthere is a single Kuwaiti or Saudi or Iraqi who any foreign oil operator, or oil-related supplier, would consider for any suchrole,evendaretomentionthatinpublic? Isthereone citizenfromanyofthosethreeoil-producingcountriesthat wouldbedelighted,notfeelmortallyinsulted,tobethought of for such menial jobs? Would they work for them (foreigners)asbottomofthebarrelemployees,asopposed to taking their rightful places as respected partners and participantsbyvirtueofwhatbelongstothem?

If this is not ‘eye-pass’of the worst type, then nothing will ever arise that unleashes a spark in Guyanese, so contentedtheyaretograbatanyscrapsthrownatthem,so that they fight among themselves to serve as the minions and flunkeys of foreigners. We had already put into the publicdomainthatGuyanesewillhavesomejobsspecially reserved for them, when the foreigners take up residence hereintheirdroves.Jobssuch:ascooksandbottlewashers, drivers and maids and shoeshine men and boys. To that shortenedlist,wecannowadddoghandlers,catgroomers andpetbabysitters. Thisisinanoil-producingcountrythat isthebrightestappleintheeyesoftheworld,andthedismal environment to which more and more of its citizens are condemned.

Atthebusinesslevel,Guyanesewouldberecruitedtobe scoutsforrealestateavailabilityincertainneighborhoods. Localrealestatecompaniesshouldcomeintotheirown,do verywell. Unfortunately,theothersideofthatequationis that this demand, most likely to grow in months and years ahead,wouldpushuppricesforGuyaneseseekingtorent, eithertolivein,ortoconductsomebusinessopportunity It mustbesaidthathuntingforandfindinglivingquartersfor expatswouldbeafewnotchesupfromdogwalkersandpet managers.

The setting up of local bank accounts, with correspondent banking relationships to facilitate the movement of funds into and out of Guyana, is also what wouldbethepreserveofGuyanese. Theywouldknowhow to navigate local banking and business red tape, how the ropeswork,whotheplayersare,andwherethebottlenecks are. Their toil would be just like the footwork and heavy liftingthatCustomsbrokershavealwaysdoneforlocalsto clearstuff. Thereisthebenefitfortheforeignersoffreeing up their time, so that they can focus their energies on exploring and profiting the rich opportunities in oil rich Guyana. Guyana is the newest, biggest, brightest stage in the oil world, and the sad reality is that Guyanese are nothing but bit players in their own rich story How long willthiscontinue? Whenwilltheseobscenitiescease?

Well done Mr. Lall on firing Freddie

DEAREDITOR, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr Lall on the “firing” of Fred Kissoon, who is not only a soup-drinker to the government in power but also distortionist of political realityinGuyana.

The PPP/C government should be very careful with this man who, on numerous occasions, attacked

PresidentCheddiinthemost virulent, vicious and vexed confusion concerning that great man’s character, reputation and worst of allmy father’s totally honest persona.

I can attest that my father always considered Freddie Kissoon a buffoon and a political left winger, which, in his estimation, made Kissoon a member of

an infantile disorderdoomed to go no-—where politically as we all have seen with him and his desolate isolation from any politicalentityinGuyana.

Thank you Mr Lall for getting the rid of him from your newspaper and I hope the people of Guyana can recognise that Kissoon is not aGuyanese journalist b u t a G u y a n e s e

“journeyman” , now hitching new reins to pull the present government’s wagon, no matter the cost Hi! Ho! Freddietightenyourreins,biteyour bridle and get your donkey shoes ready for the “long march’ with your new masters

Yours faithfully, Cheddi

(Joey) Jagan (Jr.)

Two alleged gang members remanded for ‘unlawful wounding’of Linden teen

DEAREDITOR

I am compelled to write regarding your recent article “Twoallegedgangmembers remanded for ‘unlawful wounding’ of Linden teen”. Where have I seen this before? Oh, in the m a r g i n a l i s e d a n d d i s e n f r a n c h i s e d communities of the “Developed” Nations some Guyanesewanttoemulate.A lot of Guyanese wants foreign things! Well, lawbreaking groups of fear filled and uneducated youths, to wit, gangs are a feature of “Developed Nations”. So,weneedtobe careful what we wish for

because everything in this world has an opposite side. Therefore,whenweembrace “foreignthings”,wemustbe aware that there are things that are beneficial as well as those that are not so beneficial…and they come together!

So, when we adopt an economic modus operandi t h a t l e a d s t o disenfranchisement of segments of the population, we will get the things that result from that: distrust of authority, feeling of desperation, and parasitic behaviour which is the modus operandi of so-called gangs. I understand that the

formation of gangs/ parties/tribes/communities/s tates is the reaction of fear endemic to marginalized populations.

However, like most organisms that narrowly seeks its own survival, the reactionary engages in parasitical behaviour that serves as a temporary balm for their wounds but results inabuseofitshost,resulting initsowndeath!!!

So, gang activity is a r e a c t i o n t o f e a r ofirrelevance/marginalizatio n/extinction. And sadly, it endsuphurtingthoseitseeks to help. Solution? Parents, brothers, sisters, uncle,

aunties, your know whom amongstyouareinvolvedin this parasitic behaviour! Counsel them, mentor them, andmodelthebehaviouryou wantthemtoemulate.Butdo not condone or turn a blind eye to their non-beneficial behaviour

Do not harbour them! If they are not ready to accept your words of wisdom and your example of love, let themlearnthehardway But don’tdeceiveyourselforthe world when they meet with theirjustrewards.

Yourssincerely

K.Bazil MPS; B.A. Behavioral Sciences

‘Rep’the Guyanese languages too

DEAR MS. LETITIA

WRIGHT, Awii glaad yu kom (Creolese: We are very glad thatyou’vecome.)

Wakope kuru auyesak mang (Arekuna: It’s good tohaveyoucome.)

Saru eni man Letitia, pori’pe esi e pi.enna’posak pe’apata’se’ya’ (Akawaio: WelcomeLetitia;Iamhappy because you have come to yourhome.)

Guepah lolipoe, yapokurumeh owopifoh oweichopo Guyana taka mah (Carib: Greetings, welcome home; we de appreciate your visit to Guyana.)

Miiyarîman (.Makushi: Welcome.)

Maburika to’shikwa Letitia.. (Lokono:Welcome homeLetitia)

Wakù pe elepankà apata y a k L e t i t i a ! (Patamuna: Welcome home Letitia!)

Kaiman wadapapan pugaru: (Wapichan: We w e l c o m e y o u wholeheartedly!)

Kîrwanhêmîmoko (Wai Wai: Happy that you have comeback.)

Boukaiya (Warau: Welcome.)

Wearedelightedthatyou

have taken it upon yourself to ‘rep’Guyana everywhere you go and every time you get the chance. One area we Guyanese are not so great at either understanding for ourselves or explaining to the world is the question of our languages. We proudly pronounce that we are ‘the only English-speaking country’ in South America. Of course, we all know that the only language most Guyanese speak everyday withourfamiliesandfriends and in our workplaces is Creolese. And some people like to fool us that it is ‘broken English’, ‘bad English’, or ‘just English withcarelesspronunciation’. Or we tell ourselves that it isn’t a language because people in Buxton speak ‘a totallydifferentlanguage’to the people in the Corentyne, eventhough‘midozswimin trench’ means exactly the samethinganywhereyougo inthecountry Orwesaythat the way we speak cannot be written accurately only because we don’t know the writing system for Creolese and have never learnt it or beentaughtit.

Toborrowfromwhatthe constitution of Haiti says about Haitian Creole,

Creolese is the language which unites all Guyanese. Thisisalanguagecreatedby our African ancestors in conditions of slavery, inherited by Indian, Chinese and Portuguese indentured servants, who have added words covering every single feature of culture, food, music and folk tradition that makes us who we are. English just happens to be, fornow,theonlylanguageof the courts, government administration and formal education. That, of course, can change if we as Guyanesemakeitso.

And then there are the other Guyanese languages, the languages of the Indigenous peoples of the country The main ones are Akawaio, Arekuna, Karinya (Carib), Lokono (Arawak), Makushi, Patamuna, WaiWai, Wapichan (Wapishana) and Warau. These are the languages of the ancestral peopleofthiscontinentwho kept this country safe and sound for those of us who have since landed or were landed on its shores. Like Creolese, these languages pass down from generation to generation and make us whoweare.

You are reported to have

said that you regret ‘losing your Guyanese accent’. We know that behind that statement is regret at losing your native language, Creolese. You have not lost it. It is buried inside of you, under years of being forced to talk differently. But the languageofyourmotherand grandmotherlieswithinyou, just waiting for you to dig it upanddisplayittotheworld. Infact,wehearitrisingtothe surface ever so often, like when you were reminiscing about your favourite Guyanese foods on Jumpstart radio. It’s just a matter of time, Miss Letitia, andabitofpractice.

We note the excitement ofspeakersofSouthAfrican Xhosa, Mexican Yucatecan Mayan and Haitian Creole when they hear their long ignored and disrespected languages spoken in ‘WakandaForever’.Thefact that the Black Panther movies show not only ‘people who look like me’ but‘peoplewhotalklikeme’ is important for the children oftheworld.Weareluckyto haveyouatthecentreofthis. We can be forgiven for dreaming of hearing our languagesinthenextBlack

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IDB grants and loans Appeal for greater Corporate Social Entrepreneurialism

DEAREDITOR, Irefertoyourarticle(KN 1-31-2023)captioned,‘High interest rates on loans ‘killing’smallbusinesses’in which it is reported that G u y a n a ’s l a r g e s t microfinance institution IPED and SBB reach less than 1% of Guyana’s micro enterprises with micro loans andgrants.

It is also reported that the IDB stated that access to loans in Guyana is weak compared to the region, noting that some of the reasons for this state of affairs are related to high interest rates, as much as 52 percent; the l a c k o f a d e q u a t e collateral; and high operational cost, among otherconstraints.

I n a d v a n c i n g a s o l u t i o n t o t h e s e interrelated problems, it is reported that the IDB is expected to provide Guyana with US$700,000 ($147M) to help support the growth of 300 microenterprises across the country via the delivery of skills training andmentorship

Afterreadingthisarticle, I recall that the IDB in 1993 (30 years ago), instead of augmenting the training and mentorship of the staff of

GAIBANK, recommended to the Government of Guyana that GAIBANK be closed.

The IDB at that time depended on a report that was prepared by CARANA Corporation, a consulting firm the IDB hired to examine the operations of GAIBANK.

Interestingly, this consulting firm, apart from providing an incorrect diagnosis, recommended that local and foreign commercial banks in the private sector could perform a more efficient function than GAIBANK, even though the private banks were highly risk averse, targeting Government Treasury Billsastheirmain investment instruments, togetherwithloanstoafew, fully collateralized and establishedborrowers.

Based on my firsthand experience of

working in financial markets in Guyana, I know that asset-based lending in Guyana will never reach the small entrepreneurs and

farmers who have

e x p e r i e n c e a n d

knowledge of the

technical aspects, but

they lack financial

c o l l a t e r a l t h a t commercialbanksprefer

Inparticular,thesesmall farmersandmicrobusinesses save their wealth in livestock, crops, land and otherhome-basedassetsthat aresecondbestassetstopure f i n a n c i a l a s s e t s Consequently, working with these small businesses requireadifferentmodeland approach.

Meanwhile, it would b e i n t e r e s t i n g t o ascertain the shares of the total commercial bank portfolio that are invested in the various sectors in the economy, and to identify the lending terms and amortization periods approved for these loans Perhaps the Bank of Guyana can publish these data While much more can be said on this matter, andacknowledgingthatthe demand for credit across m a n y s e c t o r s a r e increasing, I would contend that skills training and mentorship, although important, would not be sufficient to resolve the problems in financial marketsinGuyana

Sincerely,

Dr.C.KenrickHunte Professor and Former Ambassador

DEAREDITOR, I write to commend businesses, organizations, and individuals who go out of their way to help the less fortunate, and those in distress, while also simultaneously appeal to other businesses to give to worthwhile causes. The act of the wealthy and businesses giving assistance to others is called social entrepreneurship or c o r p o r a t e s o c i a l responsibility, or philanthropy,andregrettably only a small percentage of Guyanese businesses and individuals engage in the practice.

In Indian culture, it is called daan— meaning to givefreelyandgenerouslyto charities and other worthwhile causes. The less wealthy sections of the societyseeminglygivemore daan than the wealthier sectionsasperconversations with many individuals from allstrataofsociety.Someof the businesses and individuals who practice social responsibility are kinder, gentler, and more altruistic and helpful than others And there are wealthy businesses (persons)whodonotengage inanycharitablegiving—a

higherpercentagethanthose who give. The less wealthy tend to be more generous than the giant businesses. Smallerbusinesses(persons) tend to be more generous than larger ones. Several of the larger businesses are the epitome of selfishness, and there are quite a number among the business class in thecountry Infact,basedon empiricalevidenceofefforts to garner assistance for benevolent causes, over half of large businesses don’t give to charitable causes. Thelowerincomepeopleare freer handed in helping the less fortunate. And if you talk to the public, they will tell you the names of the meanest and stingiest businesspersons in their neighborhoods ‘Dem na give even a lemonade to the poor.’

It is not easy to induce wealthy businesspeople to share a little of their wealth to charity or to the poor As anillustration,Itriedinvain to get some businesses and wealthy to give to the worthwhilecauseofaidinga Mandir. They are only interested in earning or exploiting, not helping people to lift their lives, or plowing some profits into their purchasers as a thank

youmeasure.

Just last week, I went around to some wealthy businessestopleadacaseto assist a Mandir in dire need in a very depressed neighbourhood in Region 3. Of twelve very wealthy businesses I approached to assist the collapsed temple, only three (all from the Corentyne) gave assistance in kind (meaning food materials) for the proposed opening of the mandir — five wholesalers of food in G’town would not even contributepotatoesordhalor channaoranyfooditemsfor the mandir opening on Feb 19.AllofthemareHindus.A Muslim businessman not in the food business has expressed his willingness to contribute to the project. Two businesses gave cash forthebuildingconstruction fund. Two other businesses, not in the food business, made a pledge and expected to deliver soon. A small businesspersonfrom

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Atrue Black Panther, representing the very best ofAfrican traditions, values and womanhood

DEAREDITOR, OVP (Organization for the Victory of the People, www ovpguyana org), is known as the Black Panther organization in Guyana. We are in fact the official Guyanese chapter of the New Black Panther Party, a global organization with chapters in the Caribbean, South America, the USA, Europe andAfrica.We wish towelcomeandcongratulate Ms Letitia Wright We imagined that we would be welcoming a Hollywood star, with all the superficial bling and glitter that usually

accompanies such events. Instead, Letitia Wright reminded all of us what it means to be Guyanese and proudofit,somethingmany, living right here, have forgotten.

Everytimesheaddressed us, from the moment she steppedofftheplane,shedid so with humility, wisdom, generosityofspirit,faithand purpose.Sheisindeedatrue Black Panther, representing the very best of African traditions, values and womanhood. There was a realpossibilitythatMarvel’s Black Panther might have

Institutions to protect us, have instead failed Guyana

DEAREDITOR

trivialised the legacy of the Black Panthers and their very real fight for justice, both past and present However, with artists like Letitia Wright at the helm, there is no chance of that. Thank you Sister for being you,forbeingreal,forbeing a true Guyanese super hero. Youinspiredusallwithyour honesty and integrity We wish you the very best and hope to see you here again soon.

GeraldA.Perreira Chairman

Organization for the VictoryofthePeople(OVP)

AppealforgreaterCorporate...

Frompage5 Canada, based in Bel Air, whoisonlynowstartingout his business, and who seeks no mention of his c o n t r i b u t i o n , committed to donate food materialswithoutevenbeing asked; he understands the conceptofdaanandtheneed of giving and of aiding the poor

No other individual has come forward to assist the worthy Mandir project although it was brought to the attention of many

prominent and wealthy individuals Government officialsalsohavenothelped intheirprivatecapacity The President pledged his personal contributions, not from the state, for a project related to the Mandir It is h o p e d g o v e rnment officials will contribute in kind.

Societal giving or social entrepreneurialism is a wise businessmodel.Itwinsover hearts and minds and grows a business

Very few companies

understand this business m o d e l M o h a m e d Enterprises, Nand Persaud, Queens Atlantic, among a few others, are very g e n e r o u s s o c i a l entrepreneurs.

They ought to be commended More companies should follow in theirfootsteps.

I would like to thank thosewhocontributedfunds and or materials to the Mandir and other worthwhile projects. Those giant, most profitable businesseswhodon’thavea c o r p o r a t e s o c i a l responsibility ethos should be exposed and blanked by thepublic.

Yourstruly, Vishnu

Bisram

Countries and societies can only be prosperous and peaceful if the institutions responsible for these functions are efficient in administering their duties. Institutionsareliketheposts of a standing building, stronger posts keep the structure rigid and standing, weak posts will cause instability and eventually structuralcollapse.

Acountry cannot protect itself;itneedsitsinstitutions for this, such as, The Government and its Ministries, The Opposition, The Attorney General, The Judiciary, Immigration Security and Law Enforcement,TheGRA,The EPA, The Media, Unions, Regional Heads and any other person in a decisionmaking capacity that will affect the outcome of prosperity and peace in a country Starting with the Government and oil, if the original oil contract was based on 3 billion barrels of

Frompage4 Panthersequel.Thesewould bethelanguagesofahidden multilingual civilisation withapopulationmadeupof Amerindian, African, and South Asian people, using Creolese and the nine Indigenous languages of Guyana. Maybe, they might usetheknowledgeembodied

oil and now it’s 11 billion barrels,thenaccordingtooil contract laws, Guyana can negotiate a new contract for the other 8 billion barrels as this is a change close to 300% and is more than significant from the original contract, so Guyana has the optionofrenegotiatinganew contract for the other 8 billion barrels or apply the termsoftheoriginalcontract to the 8 billion barrels However, the government continuestoclaimsanctityof contract and is fighting its ownpeopleforthebenefitof theoilcompanies.

Guyana’s gold, with the amount of debt the US Governmentistakingon,all leading economists globally have concluded gold will provide more security than the US dollar and leading countries are now holding gold, how much gold is the Guyana Government holding?

Then came the moronic statement from Dr Ashni Singh,threemorelargegold

in these languages to create their own vibranium from scratch, with that mineral coming from their inner spaces, rather than from outer space. We have, of course, recently been gifted with the vibranium of the real world, oil and gas. But evenasweplaywiththetwoedged sword that is our vibranium,weneedtheinner understanding and acceptanceofselfwhichcan only come with an acceptanceofourlanguages.

We dream that you, as our representative can help usseeandhearourselvesfor whowereallyare.Wedream thatyou,intheroleyouhave adopted for yourself to ‘rep’ Guyana, can ‘rep’ the Guyaneselanguagestoo.We dream for you to become a patron of the Guyanese Languages Unit at the University of Guyana and carry our language torch to theworld.Wedreamthatthat glow will reflect back on

companies are coming to Guyana. Also why is the governmentembarkingonso many billion-dollar mega projects for a population of fewer than a million? The AG and Judiciary since Hoyte’s presidency have quickly made legislation on citizensforsmallpossession of ganja but no meaningful laws for foreigners and corrupt officials. Has it not occurred to them those who wear suits and walk with pens are the biggest criminalsinGuyana?

The GRA is running downGuyanesefortaxesbut not the foreigners. The EPA is granting environmentally disastrous permits without protection for Guyana RegionalAdministrators are gettingfundstospendforthe citizens of their regions but the money disappears into thinair Thepoliceandother authoritiesarerunningdown ordinary Guyanese for petty crimes but don’t have recordsonforeigners

(Continuedonpage16)

Guyana as we work in the dark to find ourselves beneath the rubble left behind by slavery, indentureship and colonialism. We know we are dreaming. But, in the worldoftheimagination,all thingsarepossible.

And all our languages haveawordfor‘dream’.

WeloveyouMs.Letitia! Regards

Charlene Wilkinson (Creolese)

T r e v o n B a i r d (Creolese)

CharoAlbert(Arekuna)

ClivaJoseph(Akawaio)

AkeemHenry(Kalina)

S k e i t h a T h o m a s (Lokono)

G l o r i a D u a r t e (Makushi)

O v i d W i l l i a m s (Patamuna)

Bernicia Chekema (Wai Wai)

Vivian Alex Marco (Wapichan)

DerrickHenry(Warau)

‘Rep’theGuyaneselanguages...

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Buxton Protest

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Do it right, and we support fully.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Guyanese need to be sensible.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Don't lose sight of the bigger, richer picture.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Oil is billion upon billion of American dollars.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

That is what protests should be about; getting what is right for ourselves.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Standup and fight for that which is yours!

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Three Guyanese remain on IDB blacklist for fraud, collusion

Three Guyanese and two companies related to them remain on Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) blacklist years after they were first sanctioned by the regional financial institution.

Back in 2018, a total of eight Guyanese firms and individuals were on the IDB's list for fraudulent and collusive practices. The three Guyanese who are still on the list are: Vevakanand Dalip, Sabrina Mary Williams andAbelKhemrajRai.

Notably, Dalip's firm is also on the list as well as a firm that is reported to have connectionswithRai.

Though it is not the first time that local firms and individuals have been barred by IDB, it must be noted that the institution is one of the biggest funders of government projects.

According to information from the IDB's website, Dalip and his company were debarred for fraud and collusion for 13 years (December 29, 2017 to December 28, 2030. Williams was also debarred for fraud and collusionfromthesameperiod.

As it relates to Rai, he was debarred for fraudandcollusion.

He was added to the blacklist onAugust 23, 2016 and will be removed next year, on August 22. Sidrai Enterprises, a company reported to have connections with Rai is debarred for collusion from June 30, 2016 to June29,2024.

According to the IDB Dalip, Williams and Rai were sanctioned for having engaged in fraudulent, and collusive, practices which are collectively prohibited practices and are in violation of the IDB Group's Sanctions Procedures and anticorruptionpolicies.

Importantly, it was stated that debarred firms or individuals are ineligible to be awarded and participate in any IDB financed contract for the periods indicated.

Also, the ineligibility may extend to any firm or individual who directly or indirectly controls the debarred firm or any firm which the debarred firm directly or indirectly controls. In the case of a debarred individual, ineligibilitymayextendtoanyfirmwhichthe debarred individual directly or indirectly controls.

Moreover, the trio as well as V Dalip Enterprise and Sidrai Enterprises were listed on a circular, addressed to all procuring entities from Guyana's Public Procurement Commission (PPC), advising them that no contractshallbeawardedtoanentitythathas beendebarredbytheCommission.

ThePPCdebarredDalipandhiscompany

for almost 13 years (February 2, 2018 to December 29, 2030). Williams was also debarredforthesameperiod.

Rai was debarred for seven years (November 29, 2016 to August 22, 2024). Sidrai Enterprises was debarred for seven years(February21,2017toJune29,2024).

Interestingly, V Dalip Enterprise was awarded a contract by the Ministry of HousingandWaterbackinDecember2021.

Dalip's company received an $889 million contract for the completion of Lot 2 of the Eccles to Great Diamond four-lane highway

The blacklisted company is among 12 contractors who will executive the works for the$13.3billionroadproject.

According to the PPC website, Dalip and hiscompanyshouldnot be awarded any contract between February 20, 2018 and December28,2030.

The PPC was established under Article 212 W of the C o n s t i t u t i o n o f Guyana,wasconstitutedonOctober282016 when the first five Commissioners were sworninbyformerPresidentDavidGranger.

The purpose of the Commission as detailed in the Constitution of Guyana is to monitor and review the functioning of all public procurement systems to ensure that they are in accordance with law and such policy guidelines as may be determined by theNationalAssembly

In2022,newCommissionersweresworn in by his President Irfaan Ali The Commissioners that were sworn in were, Pauline Chase, as Chairperson, Berkley Wickham as Deputy Chairperson, Dianna Rajcumar as a Commissioner, Joel Bhagwandin as a Commissioner, and RajnarineSinghasaCommissioner

The list of companies who were debarred by the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) back in 2019

Mass protests are missing in action!

I came upon a destitute man who I had known for many years. Seeing him in suchadireandpoorlystate,I took out a $5,000 note and handedittohim.

Helookedatmeandsaid, “Yuh don’t have anything smaller? This is too much moneyforme.”

Here was a man facing extremehardshipsforalong timebutwhowasrefusinga $5,000 because the money was more than he had ever knownorhad. Hecouldnot see himself having such a sum at one time. It was too muchmoneyforhimtodeal with When persons question why it is that Guyanese have not taken to mass protests over the Production Sharing Agreement signed by the government with Exxon, CNOCC and Hess, I often tell them that story You see Guyanese have known great hardships. Thecountrywas reduced for decades to the second poorest country in theWesternHemisphere.

Andthereforepeopledo not expect much. They therefore settle for the poor royalties, profit sharing and nocorporationtaxesbecause they are not accustomed to gettingabetterdeal.

For them the take from the 2% royalties and 12.5% profitsharingis‘bigmoney.’

The second reason why there have been no mass protests is that the shortchanging by the oil companies have not been experienced in a personal way Itisnotasifthepublic went to market and bought five oranges but when they

went home, three were rotten; it is not as if the oil companies have plundered theirbankbooks.

The loss therefore was not direct and personal.And thus, the personal outrage which could trigger mass protests has not been experienced.

The third reason has to do with the political divisionsinoursociety

The majority of the supporters of the

APNU+AFC do not wish to condemn the oil deal becausetodosowouldbeto indictthepartieswhichthey support. The supporters of the PPPC do not wish to come forward and criticize their government for failing to honour the promise to renegotiatetheoildeal.

They see this as providing fodder for the Opposition and so they remainsilent

With such a divided polity,theoilcompaniesdo not really have to worry aboutrenegotiation.

The fourth reason for the lack of mass protests has to do with the fear of v i c t i m i z a t i o n

OpportunitiesinGuyanaare limited and the PPP/C has been known to be a vindictive party You can runbutyoucan’thidefrom the government And when you are victimized, you may get some support for a while, but afterwards you becomeaforgottenfigure.

The government has already been venomous and disparaging towards those opposed to the oil deal. There is no shortage

Dem boys seh...

also of persons who are willing to do the governmentdirtydeeds

The fifth reason is that the government has been able to mitigate disaffection over the oil deal by offering small benefits to the people. The government has used targeted transfers to give cash grants and this helps make people feel that they are benefiting from the oil boom As part of the PPP/C’s build up to local government elections, roads are being done across the c o a s t l a n d T h e improvement in community roads is helping to make people feel that they are benefiting from the oil revenues.

What the public does not realize is that the bulk oftheoilrevenueswillend up in the hands of contractors as part of the t r a n s f o r m a t i v e infrastructure agenda of the PPPC. The sixth reason is that there is no political party which has taken up this issue with any seriousness The APNU+AFC cannot be expected to do so because they were the ones who signed the sordid deal with theoilcompanies.

The PPP/C has opted not to renegotiate the deal To whom therefore can the public look to mobilize mass demonstrations againsttheoildeal?Afterthe riggedelectionsof1985,the Opposition parties, small andlarge,cametogetherinto a Coalition to struggle for free and fair elections. But there are no political

A balloon create turbulence in America!

When dem boys did small and dem want buss a balloon, dem used to tek a pointerandpokeit.America decide dat a balloon wah flyinginitsairspaceneeded tobebroughtdown.Andto dosoitfiredamissileatit.

Demthoughtdeballoon was a form of spyware, but demboysnahbuyingdat.If China wanted to spy on America, it could do so easily from outer space usingoneofitssatellites.It nah need no balloon to do so It mek dem boys remember de time a man landahotairballoonbutdid notknowwherehewas.He see a woman and decide to ask her, “Excuse me, can

you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him an hour ago, but I don’t know whereIam.”

The woman replied, “Youareinahotairballoon between 40 and 41 degrees north latitude and between 59 and 60 degrees west longitude.”

“You must be a programmer,” said the balloonist.

“I am” replied the woman, “How did you know?”

“Well,” answered the balloonist, “everything you told me is technically correct, but I have no idea what to make of your information,andthefactisI

parties in Guyana which is going to come together to pressforabetteroildeal

Civil society in Guyana remains weak and therefore cannot be expected to organize any mass protests. Andegoswithincivilsociety are so bloated that even the thought of assembling a coalition of civil society groupings to contest is a mission impossible. But the struggleforafairoildealhas notrelented.

That struggle is still young and is in now in the phase of public education.

Publiceducationisneededto help the future generation appreciate how their future has been pawned by the country’s three main political groups – two of which have put us in the messwearein;andthethird is not willing to change course.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the

author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

am still lost Frankly, you’ve not been much help.” The woman below responded,“Youmustbean Oppositionpolitician.”

“I am,” replied the balloonist,“buthowdidyou know?”

“Well,”saidthewoman, “Youdon’tknowwhereyou areorwhereyouaregoing. Youhaverisentowhereyou areduetoalargequantityof hotair Youmadeapromise whichyouhavenoideahow to keep, and you expect me to solve your problem. The factisyouareinexactlythe same position you were in before we met, but now, somehow“it’smyfault.” Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

Four years later...

ExxonMobil US$460M -Minister Bharrat pre-contract audit still ongoing

...Patterson says Guyana now at the mercy of oil company

As Guyana scales u p i t s o i l p r o d u c t i o n activities and begins revelling in revenue from its newfound natural resource, the country has been strugglingtokeepupwiththe oilcompany'sspending.

Failure to keep watch on this crucial sector however can cost the country more than it may be benefitting. This warning has been sounded several times by international organizations but Guyana seems to have its attentionelsewhere.

Presently, the nation is still in the review process of an audit that commenced since 2019 under the former A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC)Coalition.

This is so at least according to Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat. He told the National Assembly last week during the Consideration of Estimates for Budget 2023 that this process will “hopefully” conclude “very soon”.

The Minister explained, “They would have found that therewasneedtogobackand to do some further work with

the operator which was done and a final report has now been submitted and is being reviewed by all the relevant agencies (and) stakeholders, including the petroleum unit at GRA (Guyana Revenue Authority).Oncethatisover, we will conclude the first audithopefullyverysoon.”

S h a d o w N a t u r a l Resources Minister, David Pattersontoldthisnewspaper in an exclusive interview yesterday that the response from Minister Bharrat is almost unbelievable “It's two years now since GRA said they would have completed their report and when I asked, I was told by the Minister that they (Government) sent it to Exxon for any comments they may have and that was since last year- it is now still outstanding.”

Patterson said he finds it strange that two years later, the review of Exxon's precontract costs is yet to be completed.

The former Minister of Public Works was keen to point out, “Once again, we are at the mercy of Exxon, if they (government) don't agree (to the costs), they can say, we don't agree, but we

can't do anything about it becauseofthesedelays.”

Ontheotherhand,hesaid it may be a situation where the audit has been completed but the administration is simply reluctant to release a report.

“I think that one of the

reasons why we have this delay is purely because Exxon and the government do not want the government to know what really is happening,”heshared.

Patterson said that Minister Bharrat has now given assurance that the

US$7.3 billion cost oil audit will be completed in March this year, but given the present circumstance, he is not very confident in this promise. That audit was to check bills handed to the country between 2018 and 2020.

According to Patterson, these critical reviews should be conducted at the end of every year, but the country is still lagging behind on five yearsofaudits.

He said, “This is synonymous with the government's whole management of the oil and gas sector They have done nothing other than collect the money and use it. They have not stopped Exxon from flaring but they are content with just collecting a fine which is absolutely insane becauseExxonisnotallowed todothisanywhereelse.”

In addition to flaring, Patterson said government has also failed to secure unlimited liability coverage in the event of an oil spill which can leave the country bankrupt.

“They have done absolutely nothing They have just simply been sitting on their hands and allowing

Exxon free reign in whatever areatheywant,”heargued.

In September 2019, the APNU+AFC regime had awarded a contract to a UK firm called IHS Markit to audit US$460M which ExxonMobil said it spent prior to 2015 for exploration worksoffshoreGuyana.

Butsincetheauditstarted to ascertain if this money Guyana has to repay is inflated, it appears that the nation is still stuck at the stage.

In March 2020, this newspaper reported that Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Godfrey Statia has confirmed that he is in receipt of an initial audit report for the US$460M in pre-contract costs Guyana must pay to ExxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana L i m i t e d ( E E P G L ) . Statia at the time said he was now examining the report, after which he will do his own internal work, and then have discussions with IHS Markit, the UK Company thatwasrecruitedtoauditthe b i l l i o n s o f d o l l a r s ExxonMobil said it invested intheStabroekBlock.

Shadow Natural Resources Minister, David Patterson

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

Over12,000 women-in-business benefitted from

HerVenture mobile learning app

The HerVenture mobile learning app has transformed over 12, 000 women-owned and led businesses, making waves across Guyana through a personalised roadmap for business development.

A c t i o n I N V E S T Caribbean Inc. (ACI) in a press release stated that the 'fun,flexibleandfree'awardwinning app for women entrepreneurs was delivered by the company, and the Cherie Blair Foundation for W o m e n ( C B F W ) headquartered in the United Kingdom.

To date, the CBFW has successfully supported over 200,000 women across the globe. In partnership, they embarked on their mission to empower women to start, grow and sustain successful businesses, aimed at redefining the future for themselves and their societies.

Launched September 2021, ACI and the CBFW began to support driven women entrepreneurs through the sponsorship of ExxonMobil Foundation, upon which women-led businesses were granted a pipeline of business

across all administrative r e g i o n s , w o m e n entrepreneurs living in Guyana benefited from selfpaced, digital learning tracks, each focused on varying topics - launching a business, financial planning and management, market

development opportunities in Regions Three, Four, Six and10.

Accessible to users

access and e-commerce among ten learning tracks. In August 2022, the Mobile Money track was launched

GCAA's honours 17 staff for long-standing service

by partnering entities MMG andGTT

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has been instrumental in the delivery of HerVenture, with theBritishHighCommission havingpledgedtheirsupport. AccordingtoProgramme

Manager, Selena Bacchus, HerVenture has led tens of thousands of entrepreneurs tonotonlybepresentedwith opportunities for education, butadvertisingandcapacityb u i l d i n g m e a s u r e s inclusively HerVenture has spurred the growth of women entrepreneurs through increased financial independence which led to upskilling, stronger family relationships, and household security

The HerVenture app delivered education in a recuperative time for Guyana; post-pandemic, where women entrepreneurs

were determined to start new businesses, reopen, and accelerate their growth Women entrepreneurs within the livestock and agroprocessing,foodpreparation, beauty care, retail and consulting industries were eager to kickstart their growth, having expressed their greatest challenge as accessingfinance. Including HerVenture, ACI and the CBFWcontinue to invest in women entrepreneurs through the Road to Growth, Road to Finance and Road to Leadership programmes, flagshipsoftheCBFW.

The Guyana Civil A v i a t i o n A u t h o r i t y ( G C C A ) o n F r i d a y commemorated 56 years as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and at a simple ceremony at its boardroom, the organisation awarded 17 long-standing employees for theiryearsofservice.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar commended the work of the GCAAfor its c o n t i n u e d v a l u a b l e contributionstoGuyana.

He noted the importance of advancing the regime, and highlighted that the budgetary allocation is just o n e a s p e c t o f t h e

government's commitment to fostering the advancement ofthecivilaviationsector

“Now we are at a peak, where our compliance is good, where the systems are good and we have good regulations that back the authority to enforce in the sector Ittookalottogethere and maintain development. We are entrenched with you in taking the authority forward.

As part of a global community, we have the responsibility and obligation to make sure that we maintain the systems,” MinisterIndarstated.

GCAA's DirectorGeneral, Lt Col (Ret'd) Egbert Field, recognised the

commitment of Ministers Indar and Bishop Juan Edghill in their efforts to elevatetheauthority

“It is often the political will that must be there in order for the aviation authority to move forward. And this is, thanks to the ministers for supporting this authority,” he expressed Among the awardees were Chaitrani Heeralall, Adrian Bassier, Mohammad S Khan, and Mortimer Salsbury, who served for 38, 33, 37 and 32 years respectively

At its last ICAO audit, Guyana received a 77 percent rating, well above the global average which is 67percent.

The 17 employees who were awarded by the GCAA for their years of service (DPI photos)

Applications open for Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023 Pageant P

Women between the ages of 18 – 26 and have an interest in pageantryarebeinginvitedtoapply to be part of the Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023 pageant scheduledforJune.

The pageant has been launched by renowned Guyanese designer, RandyMadray

The title will allow the winner to become an ambassador for Guyana, to represent in the Miss Caribbean Culture Queen pageant inSt.KittsandNevislaterthisyear, a statement to the media said Saturday

Madray, who is also the NationalFranchiseHolder,saidthe MissGuyanaCultureQueenshould embody what the title says, "Queen of Culture", and must be ready and equipped with the knowledge and talent to adequately showcase Guyana's culture on a regional platform.

Madray acquired the franchise in 2019 and had selected Arian Dahlia Richmond to represent Guyana in the regional pageant. She had secured the 1st runner up title, and won many special prizes, injustashortpreparationtime.

This, the designer says, demonstrates Guyana's ability to walk away with the coveted Miss Caribbean Culture Queen title, if the necessary investment and preparation is done with an actual local pageant that is dedicated to training potential queens who can give Guyana and all that the country possesses, additional

exposureonsuchamassivestage.

"Prior to us sending Dahlia, I have had the opportunity to design for many other countries for Caribbean Culture Queen, which is theregionallegofthepageantandI believe this proves to be a great platformtomarketGuyanathrough pageantry, while at the same time, providing an amazing experience for our beauty ambassador that is excitingandsafealltogether

I would have been afforded the opportunity to attend several of the regional legs and I really believe Guyana needs to be well representedonthisstage.

Hence,myreasonforacquiring thisfranchise,"Madraysaid.

The franchise owner noted that in order to embody a true "Culture Queen", young women who are signing up, should be poised and an ambassador for good, a role model who is graceful and humble She should be confident and a leaderforthepeople.

Most of all, she should be genuinelyGuyanese.

The queen will walk away with a spectacular packa inclusive of cash, a fully sponsored designer wardrobe for a year, endorsementdealsandmuchmore.

Madray said he is confident in his team to execute a spectacular andtransparentproduction.

"I believe what sets us apart is our amazing team, experience, visionanddrive.

The Miss Guyana Culture team is a team filled of young, dynamic

professionals who have served in the pageant fraternity for a while, showcasing their unwavering talents.

This team is genuinely passionate about Guyana, pageantry and the experience for contestantsinpageantry.

Ibelieveitistheabsolutedream team and if the passion is this consistent across the board, we can definitely achieve 10s across the boardaswell,"heposited.

Explaining further, that his acquisitionofthefranchisesatisfies an even bigger purpose for Guyana and the local pageant industry,

Madray said, “Pageantry in itself is a concept that serves to bring people together, creatives together, acountrytogetherandevenbeyond that for the sake of a common cause.”

"Firstly, the pageant aims to

empower and nurture young women through a program that willbenefitthemforalifetime.The ogram involves mentorship, etiquette improvement, cultural adventures and projects, and of course the more direct competition segments.

I believe by making this a reality, it allows the industry to grow and satisfies our social responsibility to young people as theypreparetoleadtomorrow Apart from benefiting the

contestants, I believe, based on the approach birthed by an amazing governing body, many creatives canbenefitfrombeingapartofthis journey IwouldlovetoseeGuyana showcased in ways never done before, where tourists are encouraged to flood our tourism destinations and our folklore is not forgotten,” the franchise owner added.

More information can be found on Facebook and Instagram @ MissGuyanaCultureQueen.

Food For The Poor concludes training for Mahaicony farmers

Food For The Poor (Guy) Inc and Partners of the Americas Farmer to Farmer programme brought the curtains down on the Organisational Management Workshop last Wednesday, certifying 15 farmers to better manage their businesses.

The programme was held to boost the capacity of the Central Mahaicony Perth Village Farmers Association, FFTP said in release to the media. The sessions were facilitated by Ms. Kaitlan Mahoney, a US-based volunteer recruited by PartnersoftheAmericas.

Speaking at the simple ceremony held at the Food For The Poor (FFTP) headquarters in North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Chief Executive Officer of FFTP (Guy) Inc , Kent Vincent praised the farmers ashespokeontheimportance oftheworktheydodaily

He emphasized that the role of the organisation is not only to move on from a project after it is completed but to seek ways whereby the lives of individuals, groups, and organizations are impacted.

The CEO also stated that the agency was pleased to be a part of the initiative and viewsitasafuturesteptobea part of other collaborations with Partners of the Americas, Farmer to Farmer Program.

Meanwhile, Country Director at Partners of the Americas, Farmer to Farmer, Guyana, Kelvin Craig noted that Guyana has been benefitting from funding under the project by United S t a t e s A g e n c y f o r International Development (USAID)forseveraldecades.

While it was first-time collaboration between Food For The Poor (Guy) Inc. and his organization, he pledged hiscontinuedsupporttowork

with Food For The Poor (Guy) and the Central Mahaicony Perth Village Farmers Association The facilitator of the sessions, Kaitlan Mahoney explained that the purpose of the training was to take the Mahaicony Perth Village Farmers Association and allow them to regain their confidence, noting that they were a strong and dedicated association.

Mahoney also said, “I have no doubt that this group will get back into the pig production,theywillgetback intothehamproductionandI have no doubt that this group will find the right market and I look forward to following theprogress.

I think the most important strategy was the willingness to include youths, it is very important that with the knowledge this group has, they share and pass on and empower the youths to be very proud of

wheretheycomefrom.”

Over the course of the five days which commenced on January 26, 2023, and concluded on February 1, 2023, the farmers benefited from Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis, which is expected to aid in improving the organisational structure, roles and responsibilities, leadership, vision plan, and action points on how to

achieve long and short-term goals. The farmers said that the programme was refreshing as it allowed them to see things from a new perspective.

For instance, when it comes to the weaning of piglets, they explained that the new method they were taught will now see them doing less work and earning more.

Farmers, who are in the

business of managing fruit and vegetable crops, relayed that the program has given t h e m a f e e l i n g o f e m p o w e r m e n t a n d confidenceastheyknewthey could take better care of their gardens.

In unison, the farmers thanked Food For The Poor (Guy)Inc.andPartnersofthe Americas Farmers to Farmers, Guyana for this jointinitiative.

Designer and National Franchise Director, Randy Madray

The Pageants official flyer with list of requirements

Representatives of Food For The Poor (Guy) Inc and Partners of the Americas Farmers to Farmers programme with farmers who completed the training

1000 nurses to receive online registered nursing training annually –HealthMinister

The Government of Guyana will soon be rolling out an online registered nursing programme to fill the void which currently exists in the country's public health system, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony saidThursday

“This is a three- year programme and every year, we are hoping to attract a thousand persons into that programme,”hesaid.

Through this hybrid programme, nursing students will complete their learning modules online and thenengageintheirpractical courses at simulation centres. Those centres, the Health Minister said, will be developed in the coming year

Dr Anthonysaidwiththe expansion of the country's health sector and with new hospitals coming on stream, there is need to have adequate human resource a n d t h e r e f o r e t h e government will be working to ensure that every faculty intheprofessionisequipped.

“Soovertime,wewillbe able to get the relevant humanresourcethatweneed to operate the system. We

are also training people in pharmacy, pharmacy aid and there are a lot of other programmes that we are working on simultaneously We have decentralized some of these programmes, so that we can get people from the respective regions to be trained,”theMinistersaid.

Dr. Anthony explained that Guyana can only train 250 nurses each year based on the space available at the n u r s i n g s c h o o l s i n

G e o r g e t o w n , N e w AmsterdamandLinden.

However, with new healthcare facilities being established across Guyana

and upgrades expected for existing ones there is need for sufficiently trained staff to meet the country's demand. As a result, 1000 persons will be trained annually in the nursing programme.

TheMinistryofHealthis partnering with local and international bodies to develop a new hybrid programme that integrates online and in-person teaching.

He added, “Every year from now on, we would try to take in 1,000 persons” while pointing to the challenge of brain drain, where many of the country's healthcare workers have migrated to North American and Europe in search of greenerpastures.

Community Health Workers and Nursing Assistants are among healthcare professionals benefitting from continuous training. In many cases, the t r a i n i n g i s b e i n g decentralised so that persons in residing in hinterland communities no longer need to travel to Georgetown to receivetraining.

Additionall

Anthony said that with government's adjustment to salary scales for health care professionals, he believes

that the issue of brain drain w i l l b e c u r t a i l e d significantly

“Some would leave but I

think with the increases we are offering, more people would want to stay,” the HealthMinistersaid.

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony

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Wanted: Experienced Cashier, Cooks, Counter Person, Supervisor and Labourer. Apply @ Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts or WhatsApp: +592-6544361.

One hauler truck Driver and licence Excavator Operator needed, must have at least 3 years experience. Call: 6447088/ 624-7248.

Seamstress, Tailor, Block maker & Carpenter wanted. Call/ Whatsapp: 691-1918

Skilled Carpenters, Masons and Labourers. Call:6029469 or 615-7526.

One Domestic needed for residence. Call: 223-5273/ 223-5274.

Persons to install outdoor carpet. Call: 615-9132.

Farm Workers needed to work at Hauraruni and Hog Island. Call: 674-8723.

General Domestic needed to work 3 days per week in Campbellville. Call: 6215140.

Handyman to work 4 days per week in Campbellville, $5,000 per day. Call: 6215140.

One Receptionist to work in office in Campbellville. Call: 621-5140.

Security required to work in Charity, Essequibo Coast. Call: 687-5814/ 688-0417.

Truck Driver required. Apply at: Lens 136 Sheriff Street, Campbellville G/ Town. Call: 227-1511/ 6451613.

Farm Workers needed to work in Timerhi. For more information, Call: 617-2032 / 617-2047.

Domestic needed, 2 days wkly. Job includes pressing clothes & housekeeping, must be able to work flexible hours and attractive salary offered. Call: 6098691.

Foreman, Drivers/ Expeditors needed to drive car/ van and lorry in Georgetown. Ages 25-55 yrs, Call: 2269768/ 225-7528.

Male and female General Receptionist to work at a Hotel. Apply in Person at 12 Henry Street,Werk-enRust. Call: 225-9211.

VACANCY

Maid required to cook and clean in East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

Lathe Operator, Welder & Handyman required. Call: 645-9333/ 220-6078.

Driver required, ages 23-50 yrs. Must be able to assist in Workshop at Eccles and must have car and van licence. Call: 645-8443/ 6429823.

Payless Variety Store is now hiring Sales Representatives and Porters. Location: 42 Wellington St, Georgetown. Call: 6584494.

Hotel Attendant required at Hick's Ville Hotel. Call: 6400673, 231-0951, 227-7714, 223-3448. Email: info@ vegeworld.net

Vacancy exist for two experienced Dispatcher at Confidential Cabs. Call: 695-1961 /231-5784.

One female Cleaner needed. Apply at Lens, 136 Sheriff Street C/Ville, Georgetown. Contact: 227-1511/6451613.

Cashiers, male and female Supermarket Attendants and Drivers needed. Apply with written application/ CV and passport photo to Survival 16 Vlissengen Road, Newtown Kitty.

Male & Female workers required to work at Carwash in Campbellville and Workers to work weekends. Call: 604-1980.

Office Clerk and Domestic Worker required. Live-in facilities available, Call: 223-7500.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade one or two, email application to: techserigy @yahoo.com or Call: 6159132.

Room Attendant, Receptionist and Desk Staff needed, 25-45 years old. 233 South Road Lacytown, Call: 225-0198.

One

European Union bans Russian diesel, oil products over Ukraine

FOR SALE

CAT 320 excavator buckets, CAT 320 idler, road painting machine.Call: 275-0367/ 6837225.

Ton and a half - Dragline hammer, steel Traylor 16ft, 2ft, 8ft. CAT 215 excavator parts. Call: 275-0367/ 6837225.

Two Bobcat, gravel bucket, 1 Sand roller, 1 Diesel generator and hand wheels for Bobcat. Call: 665-1150.

One Bobcat bucket, bucket of excavator, welding plant, heavy duty fleet charger & 3-diesel containers. Call: 665-1150.

House lots for sale, $20,000 monthly payment plan. WhatsApp: 622-1957.

Move comes after the bloc found new supplies of diesel from the US, Middle East and India to replace Russian energy supplies.

(Al Jazeera) Europe has imposed a ban on Russian diesel fuel and other refined oil products, slashing energy dependency on Moscow and seeking to further crimp the Kremlin’s fossil fuel earnings as punishment for invading Ukraine.

Sunday’s ban comes along with a price cap agreed by the Group of Seven (G7) allied countries – the United States, Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and Canada.

The goal is allowing Russian diesel to keep flowing to countries such as China and India and avoiding a sudden price rise that would hurt consumers worldwide while reducing the profits funding Moscow’s budget and war.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

One CRV Honda, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage $3.3M negotiable. Contact: 649-0956.

Two Canter GAB Series for sale, $3.5M each negotiable. Call: 667-9696.

Diesel is key for the economy because it is used to power cars, trucks carrying goods, farm equipment and factory machinery.

products ahead of the welladvertised ban, Atkinson said.

“There is the possibility that if demand growth is very strong in the Asian economies … we could find that the lack of investment in parts of the oil industry infrastructure could lead to shortages and spikes in prices,” he said.

SERVICES

Visa Application: Canada and UK & U.S.A. Graphics design & advertisements. Wedding decorations & elderly grooming: hair, nail etc. Call: 626-7040.

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 6190007, 629-5526.

ENTERTAINMENT

Swimming pool, family fun, crystal clear pool, kids and adults sections at Aracari Resort, Call: 264-2946-9.

FOR RENT

Three bedroom unfurnished apt in Vreed-en-hoop and 1, 2 and 3-bedroom furnished apt in Providence and Diamond. Call/ Whatsapp: 6046664, 682-6238, 216-2299.

One bedroom house for rent at 18th Av Diamond, E.B.D. Call: 657-2951, 6129697.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Aracari hotel located at WBD (Versailles, Vreed-enHoop)- A/C, all amenities and breakfast included, from $63USD. Call: 2642946-9.

Diesel prices have been elevated because of recovering demand after the COVID19 pandemic and limits on refining capacity, contributing to inflation for other goods worldwide.

The new sanctions create uncertainty about prices as the 27-nation European Union finds new supplies of diesel from the US, Middle East and India to replace those from Russia, which at one point delivered 10 percent of Europe’s total diesel needs.

Those are longer journeys than from Russia’s ports, stretching available tankers. Neil Atkinson, a former International Energy Agency analyst, told Al Jazeera the EU sanctions on Russian products were unlikely to have a big impact on prices, at least initially.

This is because companies worldwide have been building up stocks of Russian

G7’s price cap The G7 price cap of $100 per barrel for diesel, jet fuel and petrol is to be enforced by barring insurance and shipping services from handling diesel priced over the limit.

Most of those companies are located in Western countries.

It follows a $60-per-barrel cap on Russian crude that took effect in December and is supposed to work the same way. Both the diesel and oil caps could be tightened later. The diesel price cap will not bite immediately because it was set at about what Russian diesel trades for.

Russia’s chief problem now will be finding new customers, not evading the price ceiling.

However, the cap aims to revent Russian gains from any sudden price spikes in refined oil products.

Analysts say there might be a price bump initially as markets sort out the changes.

Institutions to protect...

From page 6 walking freely across the country.

DRESSMAKING

One legal computer Clerk needed for typing. Call: 6159112/258-0213, Email: husainsaphier@yahoo.com

Enid's Dressmaking certificate classes located 66 Sixth St, Albertown. Call: 643-7966/ 223-9106.

EDUCATION

Seeking to get into business or advancement in your job? Free Course offered! Send Email: caribbiz@gmail.com, visit website: https:/eaharris destiny.mastermind.com/ masterminds/40245

The inefficiency of Guyana’s institutions can be felt all across the country. Those who have time file complaints through media or discuss them close to home. Only one media is highlighting the robbery and destruction of Guyana.

The Opposition previously under PPP Government was

engaged in vibrant protests but now silent about the foreign exploitation of Guyana, their only protests target locals.

The Unions continue to be politically-biased. Wealth is a zero-sum game, when one side loses the other wins, so far, the Institutions representing Guyana continue to lose for Guyana. Will this ever change?

R. David.

General Domestic needed. Apply in person to Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St, Bourda.

WANTED

Wanted: Experienced Cashier, Cooks, Counter Person, Supervisor and Labourer. Apply @ Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts or WhatsApp: +592-6544361.

One hauler truck Driver and licence Excavator Operator needed, must have at least 3 years experience. Call: 6447088/ 624-7248.

Seamstress, Tailor, Block maker & Carpenter wanted. Call/ Whatsapp: 691-1918

Skilled Carpenters, Masons and Labourers. Call:6029469 or 615-7526.

One Domestic needed for residence. Call: 223-5273/ 223-5274.

Persons to install outdoor carpet. Call: 615-9132.

Farm Workers needed to work at Hauraruni and Hog Island. Call: 674-8723.

General Domestic needed to work 3 days per week in Campbellville. Call: 6215140.

Handyman to work 4 days per week in Campbellville, $5,000 per day. Call: 6215140.

One Receptionist to work in office in Campbellville. Call: 621-5140.

Security required to work in Charity, Essequibo Coast. Call: 687-5814/ 688-0417.

Truck Driver required. Apply at: Lens 136 Sheriff Street, Campbellville G/ Town. Call: 227-1511/ 6451613.

Farm Workers needed to work in Timerhi. For more information, Call: 617-2032 / 617-2047.

Domestic needed, 2 days wkly. Job includes pressing clothes & housekeeping, must be able to work flexible hours and attractive salary offered. Call: 6098691.

Foreman, Drivers/ Expeditors needed to drive car/ van and lorry in Georgetown. Ages 25-55 yrs, Call: 2269768/ 225-7528.

Male and female General Receptionist to work at a Hotel. Apply in Person at 12 Henry Street,Werk-enRust. Call: 225-9211.

VACANCY

Maid required to cook and clean in East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

Lathe Operator, Welder & Handyman required. Call: 645-9333/ 220-6078.

Driver required, ages 23-50 yrs. Must be able to assist in Workshop at Eccles and must have car and van licence. Call: 645-8443/ 6429823.

Payless Variety Store is now hiring Sales Representatives and Porters. Location: 42 Wellington St, Georgetown. Call: 6584494.

Hotel Attendant required at Hick's Ville Hotel. Call: 6400673, 231-0951, 227-7714, 223-3448. Email: info@ vegeworld.net

Vacancy exist for two experienced Dispatcher at Confidential Cabs. Call: 695-1961 /231-5784.

One female Cleaner needed. Apply at Lens, 136 Sheriff Street C/Ville, Georgetown. Contact: 227-1511/6451613.

Cashiers, male and female Supermarket Attendants and Drivers needed. Apply with written application/ CV and passport photo to Survival 16 Vlissengen Road, Newtown Kitty.

Male & Female workers required to work at Carwash in Campbellville and Workers to work weekends. Call: 604-1980.

Office Clerk and Domestic Worker required. Live-in facilities available, Call: 223-7500.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade one or two, email application to: techserigy @yahoo.com or Call: 6159132.

Room Attendant, Receptionist and Desk Staff needed, 25-45 years old. 233 South Road Lacytown, Call: 225-0198.

One

European Union bans Russian diesel, oil products over Ukraine

FOR SALE

CAT 320 excavator buckets, CAT 320 idler, road painting machine.Call: 275-0367/ 6837225.

Ton and a half - Dragline hammer, steel Traylor 16ft, 2ft, 8ft. CAT 215 excavator parts. Call: 275-0367/ 6837225.

Two Bobcat, gravel bucket, 1 Sand roller, 1 Diesel generator and hand wheels for Bobcat. Call: 665-1150.

One Bobcat bucket, bucket of excavator, welding plant, heavy duty fleet charger & 3-diesel containers. Call: 665-1150.

House lots for sale, $20,000 monthly payment plan. WhatsApp: 622-1957.

Move comes after the bloc found new supplies of diesel from the US, Middle East and India to replace Russian energy supplies.

(Al Jazeera) Europe has imposed a ban on Russian diesel fuel and other refined oil products, slashing energy dependency on Moscow and seeking to further crimp the Kremlin’s fossil fuel earnings as punishment for invading Ukraine.

Sunday’s ban comes along with a price cap agreed by the Group of Seven (G7) allied countries – the United States, Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and Canada.

The goal is allowing Russian diesel to keep flowing to countries such as China and India and avoiding a sudden price rise that would hurt consumers worldwide while reducing the profits funding Moscow’s budget and war.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

One CRV Honda, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage $3.3M negotiable. Contact: 649-0956.

Two Canter GAB Series for sale, $3.5M each negotiable. Call: 667-9696.

Diesel is key for the economy because it is used to power cars, trucks carrying goods, farm equipment and factory machinery.

products ahead of the welladvertised ban, Atkinson said.

“There is the possibility that if demand growth is very strong in the Asian economies … we could find that the lack of investment in parts of the oil industry infrastructure could lead to shortages and spikes in prices,” he said.

SERVICES

Visa Application: Canada and UK & U.S.A. Graphics design & advertisements. Wedding decorations & elderly grooming: hair, nail etc. Call: 626-7040.

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 6190007, 629-5526.

ENTERTAINMENT

Swimming pool, family fun, crystal clear pool, kids and adults sections at Aracari Resort, Call: 264-2946-9.

FOR RENT

Three bedroom unfurnished apt in Vreed-en-hoop and 1, 2 and 3-bedroom furnished apt in Providence and Diamond. Call/ Whatsapp: 6046664, 682-6238, 216-2299.

One bedroom house for rent at 18th Av Diamond, E.B.D. Call: 657-2951, 6129697.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Aracari hotel located at WBD (Versailles, Vreed-enHoop)- A/C, all amenities and breakfast included, from $63USD. Call: 2642946-9.

Diesel prices have been elevated because of recovering demand after the COVID19 pandemic and limits on refining capacity, contributing to inflation for other goods worldwide.

The new sanctions create uncertainty about prices as the 27-nation European Union finds new supplies of diesel from the US, Middle East and India to replace those from Russia, which at one point delivered 10 percent of Europe’s total diesel needs.

Those are longer journeys than from Russia’s ports, stretching available tankers. Neil Atkinson, a former International Energy Agency analyst, told Al Jazeera the EU sanctions on Russian products were unlikely to have a big impact on prices, at least initially.

This is because companies worldwide have been building up stocks of Russian

G7’s price cap The G7 price cap of $100 per barrel for diesel, jet fuel and petrol is to be enforced by barring insurance and shipping services from handling diesel priced over the limit.

Most of those companies are located in Western countries.

It follows a $60-per-barrel cap on Russian crude that took effect in December and is supposed to work the same way. Both the diesel and oil caps could be tightened later. The diesel price cap will not bite immediately because it was set at about what Russian diesel trades for.

Russia’s chief problem now will be finding new customers, not evading the price ceiling.

However, the cap aims to revent Russian gains from any sudden price spikes in refined oil products.

Analysts say there might be a price bump initially as markets sort out the changes.

Institutions to protect...

From page 6 walking freely across the country.

DRESSMAKING

One legal computer Clerk needed for typing. Call: 6159112/258-0213, Email: husainsaphier@yahoo.com

Enid's Dressmaking certificate classes located 66 Sixth St, Albertown. Call: 643-7966/ 223-9106.

EDUCATION

Seeking to get into business or advancement in your job? Free Course offered! Send Email: caribbiz@gmail.com, visit website: https:/eaharris destiny.mastermind.com/ masterminds/40245

The inefficiency of Guyana’s institutions can be felt all across the country. Those who have time file complaints through media or discuss them close to home. Only one media is highlighting the robbery and destruction of Guyana.

The Opposition previously under PPP Government was

engaged in vibrant protests but now silent about the foreign exploitation of Guyana, their only protests target locals.

The Unions continue to be politically-biased. Wealth is a zero-sum game, when one side loses the other wins, so far, the Institutions representing Guyana continue to lose for Guyana. Will this ever change?

R. David.

General Domestic needed. Apply in person to Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St, Bourda.

Hopetown residents block road, set car on fire

Abusinessman's

s o n w a s o n Sunday evening assaulted and his car torched by angry residents after he crashed into two pedestrians atHopetown,BerbiceRegion Five.

The accident victims were identified as a teenager and young adult in his twenties who might be a member of the Guyana DefenceForce.

A c c o r d i n g t o eyewitnesses, the accident occurredcloseto18:00hrs.

They recalled that the victims were walking “along theshoulderoftheHopetown Public Road” and were approaching the entrance of an adjacent street when the businessman's son lost control of his car and crashed intothem.

Public-spirited citizens ran to their assistance and rushedthemreportedlytothe New Amsterdam Public Hospital.

Videos surfaced of one of the victims seemingly unconscious, with shredded clothes and bruises being placed in a car that sped off withhim.

Kaieteur News learnt that they were both admitted in a seriouscondition.

Meanwhile, other residents reportedly attacked the businessman's son and gave him a spubd trashing untilhewasrescued.

Cell phone recorded videos surfaced too of him being chucked, pushed around, slapped and punched before finally escaping the angrycrowd.

K a i e t e u r N e w s

...afterdrivercrashesintopedestrians

understands that the businessman's son was taken to a police station where he allegedly only reported the assault and then went to a hospitalfortreatment.

After receiving treatment his father then allegedly tried to take his son home but after inventionmadebypoliceand an opposition Member of Parliament he was stopped and taken into custody to assistwithinvestigations.

It is alleged that the businessmanverballyabused the ranks for doing so but it was explained to him that even though his son was assaulted he still needs to be questionedabouttheaccident hewasinvolvedin.

By this time angry residents had set the businessman's son's car ablaze and blocked the

21:30 hrs

Woodlands Hospital launches stem cell treatment for cancer

Cancer patients and persons suffering from chronic diseases no longer have to spend thousands of dollars to travel overseas for S t e m C e l l a n d Immunotherapy services because these services will be available in Guyana at WoodlandsHospital.

The private hospital on Saturday officially launched the cancer and chronic diseases treatment services, the first of its kind in Guyana Woodlands partnered with Fidelity Health Care Limited of Trinidad and Tobago to make the therapy treatments availableinGuyana.

Speaking at the launch, MinisterofHealth,Dr Frank Anthony noted that it was only last year that the government passed a legislation that caters for

transplants in Guyana, which includes stem cell therapy and expressed how pleasedheisthatWoodlands Hospital jumped at the opportunity to be the first in bringing the treatment to the country

Stem cell therapy, also known as regenerative medicine, promotes the repair response of diseased, dysfunctional or injured tissue using stem cells or their derivatives. It is the next chapter in organ transplantation and uses cellsinsteadofdonororgans, whicharelimitedinsupply Immunotherapy on the otherhandisatypeofcancer treatment that helps your immune system fight cancer

The immune system is made up of white blood cells, organs and tissues that help your body fight infections

Immunotherapy is a type of biological therapy which means that it is a type of treatment that uses substances made from living organismstotreatcancer

For those who might not be so confident in this new formmedicalscience,oneof the doctors at Woodlands Hospital,Dr PramodTembi, is a living testimony of how thismoderntreatmentcando wonders.

Dr Tembi, at the launch, toldtheattendeesthathewas s u f f e r i n g f r o m a n autoimmune disease for a number of years and it causedhimalotofpaininhis spine.

However, he was introducedtostemtherapyin 2019 by a friend in Trinidad anditturnedhislifearound.

He explained that stem cells were taken from his bone marrow and injected

intohisspineandtoday,heis able to stand and move aroundwithoutpain.

Meanwhile, President Mohammed Irfaan Ali said that“Iamverypleasedatthe direction at which private and public healthcare is

going in the next seven years” while noting that healthcare is very important.

The president said that “Guyana's medical talent” is among the best in the world while adding that he is workingtowardssettingupa

National Medical Scientific Council “That brings our best talent to investigate, not old technology, the best-inclass medical science development that can be applied to Guyana to help us here.”

HopetownPublicRoad. Region Five police ranks were quickly able to restore

the peace and cleared the road. At

it was

announced that traffic in the area was flowing smoothly again.

The businessman's torched car (Photo credit Bebi Oosman)

Minister of Health Frank Anthony making his address during the launch

President Mohamed Irfaan Ali delivering his feature address

Dr. Pramod Tembi sharing his experience with Stem Cell therapy at Saturday launch of the new treatment services in Guyana

President Ali being given a tour of the Woodlands Hospital facilities

West Indies, Australia & England register awins...

From page 20

Anthony Bennett for a wellplayed 30 with 2 boundaries. Thereafter they lost 3 or 4 quick wickets before Arnold Manders and Paul Keneally came together for a brilliant partnership that got West Indies very nervous. West Indies eventually got Manders out at 152 for 6 in the 31st over who batted very sensibly for 34 with 4 boundaries and one six.

Captain John Courtney then joined Paul after another wicket fell at 169 and gave the ROW some more hope and WI some more anxious moments.

But when Keneally was wonderfully caught by Zamin Amin on the mid-on boundary for a well-played 64 it was all over for the ROW team.

John was bowled off the final delivery of the 42nd over

bowled by Zamin Amin. The top bowlers for WI were Emmerson Jordan with 3 for 20 and Samad Motara with 3 for 39.

George Harris received the MOM for the West Indies whilst Paul Keanelly was adjudged the MOM for the ROW. MATCH 3 at the FourSquare Oval-Pickwick CCAustralia continued their dominant display by demolishing the hapless USA team by a huge margin in another very clinical display. In keeping with the general trend in this tournament whereby all teams winning the toss electing to bat, Australian took first strike and racked up the highest score of the tournament -258 for 6 off their allotted 45 overs whilst surpassing the Windies previous highest score of 250 posted on Wednesday. The Aussies

lost 2 very early wickets to be precariously placed at 26 for 2 but then consolidated with Kent Officer hitting a brilliant 73 laced with 8 boundaries and a maximum. Glen Robinson also hit a superb undefeated 53 with 4 boundaries to shepherd the lower order to their eventual total. There were some other useful contributions by Claude Orlando 42 with 4 boundaries and Greg Hoysted 35 with 3 boundaries. s for a well-played 39 with 2 boundaries. Extras contributed a healthy 30 to the total with their premier bowler, Michael Griffin giving away 13 wides. Griffin still had the best figures of 3 for 46 whilst Tirumurti had 2 for 51. Much was expected from this USA team, but they have flattered to deceive. They never got going in their innings and fell

Monday February 06, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

Sometimes, it's amazing to see how your relationships can spin so easily out of control, Aries. Today you may have to deal with a lot of tension within your group. You'll almost feel as if no one understands the situation.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You sometimes have difficulty making up your mind. You don't always know exactly what you want. Today, Taurus, you'll be at peace with yourself.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Sometimes we all feel a little lost, Gemini. We often want to move mountains and use all our energy and enthusiasm to try to do so.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

You have a natural ability to accomplish a great deal rather easily, Cancer. But today you may feel snowed under with projects. Things around you might be moving quickly.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Your day has finally come, Leo. You have your own vision of life and you like sharing it with others. You're far from thinking that you're any sort of new messiah.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

Today you'll have the strange feeling that something is floating in the air. The time is right to try to understand the different needs of your family circle.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

As the dawn of another quiet and peaceful day appears, Libra, you will be in the best disposition to observe and appreciate the lightness of things. Life can seem so beautiful on some days.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

You will find a clean page on the agenda today, Scorpio. You should try to think only about yourself. This will allow you to meditate about your life and be at peace with yourself.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

You will wake up today on cloud nine, Sagittarius. Your morale is at a peak. You will feel totally free and be able to clearly perceive the essentials of life.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The

The astral energy will have you reminiscing all day long over childhood memories, Capricorn. These memories will take you to the houses and places where you were raised.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

You love interacting with people others might consider eccentric. You can't help it. You're simply attracted to them. You will probably encounter one of these people today, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

You have always tried to build up your health using traditional methods, and you take great care of yourself.

for the 2nd lowest total of the tournament. Only Chandrakant Barlingay top scored with 24 with 4 boundaries and a six and captain Wayne Copeland with 16 reached double figures. All 5 Aussies bowlers used took 2 wickets apiece- Stuart Ridge 2 for 4, Syd D’Mello 2 for 23, Stephen Moore 2 for 22, Sam Davis 2 for 10, and Mike Riley 2 for 8.

West Indies..

From page 21 one training from Nexgen Golf Academy coaches. Interclassroom competitions will be followed by an interschool tournament and a national tournament will be held soon afterward. Additionally, at the recent Ministry of Sports Awards, the Guyana Golf Association was nominated for Association of the Year and Aleem Hussain was nominated for Sportsman of the Year in recognition of accomplishments in 2022.

The efforts of the GGA was also noticed on the world stage as invitations for our junior golfers to participate in the American Junior Golf Association world tournament over the next 5 years were extended but according to Hussain, “at our current stage of development, we elected to defer participating until next year.” For more information on how you can learn how to play golf, call 645-0944 or visit the conveniently located Nexgen Golf Academy on Woolford Avenue in Georgetown which is open to the public daily until 8pm.

GBA to host presentation of awards to outstanding boxers, officials

The Guyana Boxing

Association will on Wednesday host it eagerly awaited 2022 presentation ceremony The ceremony will be held at the Mirage Lounge onAlbert and Third Streets,Alberttown.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle disclosed that the galaeventwillcommenceat 6:00PMandwillseethebest performersin2022receiving prizes.

Top of the list is light heavyweight boxer ‘Dynamite’ Desmond Amsterdam who walked away with the Boxer of the YearAward.

Amsterdam is a sergeant intheGuyanaDefenceForce and will be joined by fellow members of the force Terrence Poole MS (Best Coach) and Jermain Craig (Best Referee/Judge)

AccordingtoNinvalle,there willbeotherawards.

The president indicated that it is only fitting that the GBArecognizes the sterling

performancesthathavebeen given during last year and promised that the ceremony willnowbeanannualaffair

GBA President Steve Ninvalle said, “This is a humble and custody attempt, a storied tradition by the association to reward the individuals, athletes and officials to be

Desmond Amsterdam

specific, who have performed remarkably and beyondthecallofdutyinthe prioryear

While the marquee presentations will include the Best Boxer, the Best CoachandtheBestOfficial awards, several other notable accolades will also bepresentedatthegala.”

Man Cricket O60s Caribbean Cup Tournament

The BMC Caribbean Cup continued Friday with excellent Barbados weather at all the 3 venues- Four Square Oval,Wanderers CC & the BNOC Sports Club and West Indian George Harris registered the first century of the BMC Tournament. This round, England and Australia had an easy day at the park registering comprehensive victoriesintheirencounters, whilst West Indies had to sweat it out against ROWto earn their closely fought victory

MATCH 1 at BNOC SportsClub-IntheEnglandv Invitational XI encounter at the BNOC ground, the Englishmen registered their 2nd victory On a good wicket against very disciplined bowling, Invitational XI could only muster146for9offtheir45 overs. Dave Ramdan made 32 with one boundary, Winston Herbert 26 with 2 boundaries and a maximum, MihirGandhi19andParmar 19with2boundariesapiece. Four of the English bowlers

took 2 wickets apiece- Phil Deakin2for25,JimPhillips 2for29,ChrisDearden2for 22 and Richard Merriman 2 for11.

The Englishmen then cantered through to 149 whilst losing 2 wickets off 27.3 overs. Kevin Grant led the charge with 57 not out with 3 boundaries. Opener MartinWatkinmade35with 3 boundaries Edward Gordon-Lennox was also undefeated on 31 with 3 boundaries.

MATCH 2 at the

WANDERERS CC- In the WI vs ROW encounter the Windieswonthetossforthe 2nd time and elected to bat. TheROWbowlersputatight lid on the free scoring West Indians and had them totteringat33for4after11.4 overs with Opener Keith Lawrence, Jefferson Gibbons,CaptainRoySingh and Richard Sieuchan all back in the hut. Rodney Husbands joined George Harris and they steadied the ship with a breathtaking 76 run partnership. Husbands scored 44 off 42 deliveries

which was peppered with 5 boundariesand2sixes.

ZaminAmin then joined George and they continued to pile on the runs at a very goodclip.Zaminhadaruna ball 32 with 5 beautifully timedboundariesandshared in a 84 run partnership with George. Harris continued to bat beautifully mixing solid defense with controlled aggression but was unfortunately run out for a masterful 122 made off 125 deliveries which had 15 sweetly timed boundaries.

Emmerson Jordan with 13 andHafizMohamedwith14 bothhadasolitaryboundary maintained the momentum to the end. Hafiz displayed his dexterity with a beautifully executed switch hit shot which raced to the 3rdmanboundary Bowling for the ROW, Captain John Courtney bowledhis9oversonthetrot tofinishwith3for25,whilst RexBennetthad2for38.

Intheirturnatthecrease, ROWhad a solid start of 57 in12.2oversbeforetheylost

onpage19)

West Indies, Australia & England register wins again in the 3rd round of the Big

BMC CaribbeanCupinAssociation with Blue Waters &Barbados Tourism MarketingINC

GCB sends congratulatory message to Guyana Harpy Eagles

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) congratulated the Guyana Harpy Eagles Captain Leon Johnson and his team for a resounding victory in the opening match of the West Indies Championship against BarbadosPride.

Thevictorymarksagreatstarttothe2023 campaign of West Indies Championship in which the GHE has set out to regain the regionalfour-daytitle.

The GCB commends the team’s effort withspecialmentionforMatthewNanduon his debut century in first innings; becoming

the fifth Guyanese to achieve the feat since 1966,NialSmithforhis5-wickethaulinthe second innings and Veerasammy Permaul, who became the first Guyanese bowler to take500wicketsinRegionalfour-daycricket duringthematch.

The GCB would like the GHE team to enjoythevictorywhileitencouragesthemto remain focused for the remaining matches. GHEmovestoGrenadaforthesecondmatch oftheWestIndiesChampionshipwherethey take on home team Windward Volcanoes startingonWednesday,February8,2023.

Guyana Golf Association and Allied Arts (MoE) continue to expand Golf around Guyana

The Guyana Golf Association and Nexgen Golf Academy had a tremendous start to 2023 to boost their efforts for development of Golf in Guyana with outreach to Regions6and8thisweek.

President of the GGA Aleem Hussain explained, “WemetwiththeMinisterof Education and her team on January 12 and since then, we have visited and interacted with 19 schools and 33 PE Teachers from Region 6, 8, and 10

Equipment, balls and training was provided to all schools and the immediate resultwasimplementationof thesportinseveralschools!”

Students and teachers in far flung areas such as Monkey Mountain,

Paramakatoi, Kato and Íopinang had their first experience holding a golf club and the joy on their faceswasasighttobeholdas theyquicklybecameadeptat hittingagolfball.

With this latest outreach, the Ministry of Education

Unit of Allied Arts and the GuyanaGolfAssociationhas nowteameduptoreach8out ofthe10regionsinjustover a year, an amazing result for thedevelopmentofthesport in a country where it was alwaysviewedasaneliteand expensive game, with no access for the general public whocouldnotaffordprivate clubmembership.

Another session is planned for Region 6 next week where over 300 studentswillreceiveoneon

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The Guyana Harpy Eagles team prior to their departure.

GGA President Aleem Hussain with students after a session.

Brathwaite and Chanderpaul tons see West Indies to 221-0 in rain-hit 1st test against Zimbabwe

B U L A W A Y O , Zimbabwe (AP) — Captain Kraigg Brathwaite and fellow opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul started the second day in their 50s and finished it with centuries as West Indies advanced to 221-0 against Zimbabwe in the first test with rain again limitingplay

Only 38 overs were bowled yesterday as the visitors resumed their first innings on 112-0 at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Brathwaite (116 not out) and Chanderpaul (101 not out)eachresumedon55and reached their tons with relativeease.

Brathwaite brought up hishundredwithashotdown to third man. It was his 12th testton.

“Kraigg is a guy who valueshiswicket,hedoesn’t give it away,” Chanderpaul said.

Zimbabwe spin bowler Wellington Masakadza (030)saidhissideisstillinthe

game, despite the challenging bowling conditions after West Indies chosetobatfirstonSaturday “It’s always difficult to bowl first in Bulawayo, but we will get better tomorrow,”Masakadzasaid.

“I thought we bowled well, same as yesterday We just weren’t lucky enough,

wemissedoutsideedge,and balls falling short. But we didn’t let them get away, whichisabigpositiveintest cricket.”

Both games of the twomatch series will be in Bulawayo.

coach Andre Coley is in charge of the team for the first time. Zimbabwe hasn’t played test cricket in 18 months since losing a oneoff match at home to Bangladesh.

The West Indies lost 2-0 in Australia in its last series in December

interim

Sports: West Indies 221 for 0 (Brathwaite 116*, Chanderpaul 101*) vs Zimbabwe.

Senegal complete African double by winning CHAN shootout

AFP-Senegalcompleted a double when they beat hosts Algeria 5-4 on penalties after a 0-0 draw to win the African Nations Championship (CHAN)

finalonSaturday

Golden Boot winner Aymen Mahious had a chance to win a competition reserved for footballers playing in their country of birth when he stepped forward to take the 10th spot-kick.

Buthisattemptwasweak and straight at goalkeeper

Pape Sy, who saved comfortably, leaving the teamsdeadlockedat4-4,and necessitatingasudden-death extensiontotheshootout.

Ousmane Diouf calmly converted to edge Senegal ahead amid whistling from many in a sell-out 39,120 crowd at the Stade Nelson MandelainAlgiers.

Ahmed Kendouci had to scoretokeepAlgerianhopes of victory alive, but his shot rebounded off the crossbar and Senegal were champions.

The local-based team

triumphed a year after the full Senegal team, including stars like Sadio Mane, beat Egyptonpenaltiestowinthe premier competition, the AfricaCupofNations.

It was a joyous occasion for all of west Africa as teams from the region reached five of the other six Nations Championship finalsandlostthemall.

Thiswasthesecondfinal to be decided by a shootout withLibyabeatingGhanaon penalties after a goalless 2014 title decider in Cape Town.

Regularandextratimein a tense, physical Algiers showdown were notable for the lack of goal attempts withjustfourin120minutes, threeofthemfromAlgeria.

The attempt that came closest to breaking the deadlock was in the 107th minute when a volley from Houssem Mrezigue was brilliantly pushed over by Sy

Anunusualfactwasthat neither team was caught offside during the cagey 120-minuteattritionalbattle,

and

West Indies batsman Tagenarine Chanderpaul, right, and Kraigg Brathwaite make a run on the second day of the Test cricket match between Zimbabwe and West Indies at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Sunday,Feb, 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

West Indies batsman Kraigg Brathwaite plays a shot on the second day of the Test cricket match between Zimbabwe and West Indies at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Sunday,Feb, 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

whileeachsidereceivedfour yellowcards.

of

Congo (twice each), Libya and Tunisia won previous editionsofthenationalteam competition.

There was also drama in thethirdplaceplayoffinthe western city of Oran on Friday with a 90th-minute

Senegal complete double when they beat hosts Algeria 5-4 on penalties to win the African Nations Championship.

Thrilling end to BCQS 2023 Guyana Squash Masters

Arjoon,TenPow,Ben,SealyandFindlaycopchampionships

Guyana Squash

Association ( G S A ) o n Saturdayeveningbroughtan end to a thrilling BCQS

Guyana 2023 Squash Masters tournament at the Georgetown Club Court (GTC), Camp Street, Georgetown.Itwasindeeda top notch showing of local and international squash playershereinGuyana. The event,whichconcludedafter four days of competition, sawAlexArjoon,KathyTen Pow, Mark Sealy, Don Ben and Winston Findlay reign supremeonthefinalnightof theaction.

Alex Arjoon copped the M e n ’ s O v e r 3 0 championship beating the left-handed Barbadian ShawnSimpsonintheFinal. Kathy Ten Pow came back;

after not being involved in any competitive action in almost ten years; coming back and delivered a remarkable win in the Women’s Over 35 final againstthesensationalLydia Fraser

MarkSealycameoutand put on a show (as usual) for those in attendance. Sealy wentupagainstJohnHolley out of Trinidad and to no surprise; he took the first game lead 1-0 in a competitive battle ending 11-9. Sealy later increased hislead2-0attheendofthe second game. Sealy then completedacomfortablewin in the third game defeating the evanescent Holley to claimtheMen’s55-64title.

Khalil Ali on the other hand lost to Don Ben from BarbadosintheMen’s45-54

finals. Don came with great intent as the soaringAli fell toa3-0defeat.

Forthemuchanticipated match between Daniel Ince and Nicolette Fernandes, though it was a third place playoff. Both players came out and played as if it was a finaltotheBCQSMasters.

Daniel Ince, however, did well to compete with Fernandes strategic shot selection.MoresoIncetook the first game 11-6 but Fernandes came back in the second and third game winning 12-10 and 11-6 respectively In the fourth gametheyoungInceleveled the score 2-2; coming back from a 6-2 deficit to win the fourthgame6-11.Fernandes wentontowinthefifthgame to seal a 3-2 victory Nevertheless Daniel Ince providedgreatentertainment for those at the venue after five games of really close encounters.

On the other side of the table, one would say: ‘It is nevergoodideatotakeyour opponents likely’ Maybe thisiswhatDennis‘Running Ants’ Dias had to reckon with.

Needless to say, in the Men’s 65 Open category: Dennis Dias lost to Winston FindlayoftheBritishVirgin Island (BVI) 9-11, 11-9, 511, 11-7 and 11-4 to hand him (Findlay) the Men’s 65 OpenBCQSMasterstitle.

The final match of the evening between Alex Arjoon and Shawn Simpson was for the Men’s 30-44 championship. Both players were well poised leading up to the final. They had met

Keylor Navas stars on debut as Forest beats Leeds 1-0 in EPL

NOTTINGHAM, England (AP)

KeylorNavasmadeastringofgreatsaveson his debut for Nottingham Forest to help his new team beat Leeds 1-0 in the Premier League and climb further clear of the relegationzoneyesterday

BrennanJohnsonscoredthe14th-minute winnerforForestbutthehostshadNavas—a multipleChampionsLeaguewinnerwhowas signed from Paris Saint-Germain this week on the final day of the January transfer window — as much to thank for sealing a thirdvictoryintheirlastfourleaguegames.

The 36-year-old Costa Rica star was especiallybusyinthefirsthalf,withhisbest saves denying Luke Ayling and Wilfried Gnonto.

Leeds created chances at will in the first half but found it harder to penetrate Forest

afterthebreak,whenU.S.midfielderWeston McKenniecameonforhisdebutandplayed alongside international teammate Tyler Adams.

Johnson’sgoalcamewhenafreekickwas onlyhalf-clearedbyLeedstotheedgeofthe area,wheretheWalesforwardsteeredalow, first-timeshotjustinsidethenearpost.

Forest moved into 13th place, six points above the relegation zone, as the promoted teamcontinuestorecoverfromaslowstartto theseasononitsreturntothetopflightafter 23yearsaway.

Leeds is in 17th place in the 20-team league and only out of the relegation positionsongoaldifference.

JesseMarsch’steamdoeshaveagamein hand, though, and will play Manchester UnitedawayonWednesday

twice before at the Senior Caribbean Area Squash

Association (CASA) championship in Jamaica last year; where Arjoon bested Simpson on both occasions.

Arjoonsoughttocapture his third win over the toweringBajanatthisyear’s Squash Masters. He started on a winning note; he claimed the first game 11-5. Thesecondgameended11-9 with a stroke being given in favour of Arjoon. Arjoon now with a 2-0 deadlock continued his form; closing off a scintillating performance with 3-0 victory over Barbadian Shawn Simpson to grab the Men’s30-44title.

Meanwhile, Peter Pirtheesingh picked up a well-deserved second place

honour in the Men’s 45-54 category. While Joseph ‘Jo Jo’ Mekdeci copped third place in the Men’s 55-64.

The World Squash Masters gold medalist Nicolette Fernandes bagged the third place accolade after competing in the Men’s 3044category Tournament sponsor Sanjay Amin: Director of BCQS Masters (Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad) praised GSA Chairman of theCompetitionsCommittee Deje Dias for putting together a wonderful BCQS 2023 Squash Masters (Guyana) tournament He commended Dias and his team for the efforts made to make this tournament a success. The next stop is Barbados for BCQS Squash MastersinMay,2023.

Alex Arjoon (right) returns a beautiful shot to Shawn Simpson (left) in the third game of the Men’s 30-44 final.

Trindadians Mark Sealy (left) and John Holley (right) congratulate each other after the Men’s 55-64 final.

Nottingham Forest’s Keylor Navas, right, dives for the ball during the English Premier League soccer match between Nottingham Forest and Leeds United at City Ground stadium in Nottingham, England, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Rui Vieira)

BCQS Guyana Masters players and officials assembled after the presentation ceremony at GTC.

Kraigg Brathwaite notched up his 12th Test ton. (Associated Press) Tagenarine