Kaieteur News

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Friday Edition

Mexico, Chile refer NEWS Israel-Hamas conflict to court over possible crimes AIETEUR

January 19, 2024 - Vol. 26 No. 03

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 53,310

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

Oil companies to walk away with US$14.7B this year, Guyana will only get US$2.1B Man accused of killing, burying Linden girl in shallow grave nabbed in Suriname

Jagdeo defends keeping his “claws” sunken in oil sector, Fugitive, Shaqawn Alleyne called 'IZWE’

...says again Petroleum Commission will come in due time

Berbice man mauled to death by mixed-breed dogs

Govt. says court has Jagdeo defends no jurisdiction to order release of Exxon's US$2B Govt. withholding of ...litigants threaten to take guarantee matter to CCJ over contempt Linden nurses salary 53

40% of budget to be - VP funded by loans Jagdeo

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

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Oil companies to walk away with US$14.7B this year, Guyana will only get US$2.1B Out of US$16.8B in oil exports to be generated in 2024, Guyana is expected to receive US$2.1B. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil and its partners in the Stabroek Block will cart off US$14.7B. Guyana's US$2.1B in oil export earnings are the payments Guyana expects to receive from the sale of its share of profit oil. Out of 202 projected lifts of crude, Guyana will get 25. With each lift being approximately one million barrels, Guyana's entitlement this year is 25 million barrels of crude. Each lift will be marketed and sold by Guyana's hired marketers, and the funds will be deposited into the Natural Resource Fund.

In addition to profit oil, the oil companies are mandated to pay Guyana royalties of 2% of the crude produced and sold. Government expects US$320M in royalties this year. Added to the profit oil export

earnings, Guyana would be making about US$2.4B from oil production in 2024 - a figure that will pale in comparison to the massive earnings of ExxonMobil and its co-venturers in the Stabroek Block.

The Stabroek Block production sharing agreement (PSA) entitles the oil companies to 177 million barrels or 177 lifts. These lifts include crude mostly for cost recovery, and some for profit oil.

Oil companies are projected to cart off US$14.7B in value from the production of Guyana's crude. That is US$12.6B more than Guyana's projected oil export earnings. That difference alone is enough to pay for this year's entire national budget TWO TIMES - and still have enough left back to pay for the Gasto-Energy integrated natural gas liquids plant (NGL) and power plant facility TWO TIMES. The daylight carting off of most

of the value continues the tradition from previous years.

Last year, Exxon and partners made away with US$10B out of the US$11.6B in oil exports. The year before that, they got about US$8.6B out of the US$9.9B. This state of affairs is due to the fiscal terms of Exxon's PSA, which are held stubbornly in place by a rigid stability clause approved by the previous administration. With ring-fencing provisions absent from the contract, there is no doubt

Govt. Gas Strategy falls short of a high school student's research paper The Alliance For Change (AFC) has tossed the Government of Guyana's (GoG's) Draft Gas Utilization Plan aside, insisting that the document falls short of a research paper done by a high school student.

Member of Parliament, David Patterson, the party's spokesperson on Oil and Gas was at the time responding to a question from Kaieteur News during a recent press conference when he noted that the Gas Strategy has failed to highlight key options for the utilisation of the country's natural resource. “I, like the rest of the country, was eagerly awaiting this gas strategy by the government. I think it fell short of any expectation; it fell short of even a high school student's research paper...so it's very hard for us to comment on a non-existent gas s t r a t e g y, ” t h e M e m b e r o f Parliament (MP) stated.

He explained that the administration previously touted the other benefits of gas being piped to shore for the country to benefit from fertilizers and other byproducts; however, there is no mention of the development of gas for these purposes in the draft plan.

Patterson also pointed out that the document also fails to address any plans for future stand-alone gas discoveries.

The former Minister of Public Infrastructure explained that the previous administration had left an Oil and Gas Master Plan in place which he believes is still relevant.

AFC MP, David Patterson “While we were there, included in that strategy was utilisation of natural gas for public transportation- you can power a bus a car...we can use natural gas other than just simply using it for those things like that. We also spoke about trying to do further processing of the gas, we also looked at the possibility of containerization and export. We looked at power barges as opposed to putting a fixed plant here,” the Member of Parliament explained.

Further, he reasoned that there are still unanswered questions on how Guyana could utilize gas resources found outside of the Stabroek Block. “What happens in the event of say Tullow, if they somewhere in the Kaieteur or Canje Block hits a gas field, how does that integrate into, because obviously the gas pipe that we are building is owned by Exxon, now Exxon will

not allow Tullow to link up into their gas pipe...”

Patterson pointed out that neighbouring Trinidad has a standalone gas project, a key consideration for Guyana in the monetization of its gas resources.

On the other hand, Patterson said that Trinidad formerly provided free natural gas to taxis and minibuses to offset transportation costs. He said this system can be developed in Guyana too. Meanwhile, he noted that the Ghanaian government has developed a hub for all the resources from various companies to be linked. Similarly, he said Guyana needs a hub rather than develop the resources in different parts of the country. “You can't go in Wales, and then you want one in Berbice. When you have a whole plan, you have a hub and all the various operators that strike oil, they pump into the central hub, the government pays them (based on) whatever agreement and the government takes that and puts it where it wants to,” the MP said.

Patterson reasoned, “That is what a master plan is, it's not just simply huff and fluff that Jagdeo keeps doing and talking about urea and so forth. You must have a (plan) not only how to use the gas, it's the location because you are planning something which you have a reasonable idea that may or may not be there so therefore you have to have a location because you can't bring any more gas into Wales without causing any disruption.”

that millions of United States dollars in revenue losses are slipping through the cracks.

Despite this status quo, there is neither political will nor intention to renegotiate this contract, on the government's part.

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said that saving extra funds immediately by ring-fencing the projects now, could interfere with Guyana's long-term investment prospects.

So far, Exxon managed to

secure approvals for five offshore developments from two administrations without ringfencing provisions and a better deal for the latter projects.

Late last year, Exxon added a third floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel to the Stabroek Block. Production shot up to 550,000 barrels of oil per day, according to Exxon's last press release.

It is expected to reach 620,000 barrels per day this year.

Kaieteur News

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

Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

The plight of Palestinians It is people that are dying in Palestine. Where is the voice of the world? It is the elderly, the newborn, and women and children (non-combatants) who are under constant gunfire in Palestine, in the congested confines on their own land to which they have been condemned. What has happened to the conscience of the rest of the world, and all the inspiring postures of those who call themselves global leaders? What is taking place before the eyes of the world in Palestine to the Palestinian people is not war, it is vengeance, blood lust run amok, and the Israeli’s version of the Final Solution. This can’t be right, this can never be condoned or upheld or supported in any way, shape, or form.

Humans are being deliberately starved into submission, hunted down like animals, and eradicated in pockets, or one by one.

Americans and Europeans love to hold aloft the Geneva Convention, and speak solemnly about its restraining provisions. There is this obscene hypocrisy where some polite clearing of the throat is coming from officials in Washington and other influential world capitals calling for ceasefire and restraint. It is about the extent of the interest and involvement of those who have much in common with the Israelis and can bring them to a halt. Where there should be energy and stirring commitment to put a stop to the barbarisms from the side with all the weapons and resources, there is mainly a blank wall of thick silence. The Palestinians have their backs so much against a wall that their friends are few and far between. When they speak, their voices and anger are quickly swamped by the overwhelming tide of a Western media cohort that is conspicuous in which side is hailed as heroic and glorified, and the other side that is denounced and demonised.

Few are those who should have any difficulty in deciding who has the upper hand, and by far, and who has the more powerful and vocal friends beyond compare. In this bloody vortex, the land now sown with more hate, the Palestinians are being ground into dust. It is as if they are not people, but vermin to be exterminated in the most calculated and coldblooded manner. The word now attached to what is happening to the Palestinians is genocide. As much as that is a harrowing thought, and a word freighted with the gruesome, it still is not enough to capture and convey the violence wreaked with unrestrained vigor on a virtually captive people.

Genocide, as terrible as it is in the mere contemplation, still feels like a lukewarm description of the deliberate destruction of a people and their spirit to stand up and resist their circumstances, their oppressors. From all indications, the devastation of the will of the Palestinians seems to be a primary objective of the Israelis.

It is the inexplicable trajectory of irony that the same people whose recent history of less than a hundred years ago was of being victims of an unprecedented holocaust, a long genocidal season without equal, are themselves now the perpetrators of genocide (or worse) against those who fall and cower under their guns. How is, what is occurring today in Palestine different from the visions and practices of the jackbooted Aryans, who first came under the cover of dark, and then around the clock, to wipe a people from the face of the earth? There is something just as machinelike in its precision, no less clinical in its operation, in what is being meted out to the hapless Palestinians, who are foodless, friendless, and defenseless.

There is the clearest discernment of over 1000 Israelis killed in a surprise attack. But do the retaliatory schemes and actions translate to more than 20 Palestinians victimised for each Israeli life lost? For every single bullet and strike fired on behalf of the Palestinian cause on the first day of this new conflict, do there have to be a thousand shells and warheads pouring out with grim determination from Israel?

This is anti-human, it is anti-life, and there can be no other description but that it is anti-Palestinian existence.

Humanity has fled, the beastly in man now rages uncontrollably.

Friday January 19, 2023

The West on Trial in Gaza

DEAR EDITOR It is just over one hundred days since the Middle East once more erupted into violence. This time however it was different in many ways while remaining the same for Palestinians over the last seventy-five years. Since the establishment of Israel in 1948, millions of Palestinians were evicted from their homes and their lands. What is taking place in Gaza today is a continuation of that tragedy.

The difference is the sheer brutality, the horrific and merciless slaughter of men, women and children, including babies. There are deliberate, systematic industrial type massacres.

One cannot help to wonder as to the type of people that are executing this mass murder of Palestinians. Have they lost all human feelings, do they have mothers, fathers, siblings, children, how can persons become so monstrous?

At the time of writing almost 25,000 Gazans have been killed, some 10,000 still missing, presumed dead.

Almost half of the dead and wounded are children, infants. Mostly women make up the rest of the dead. The terrible sufferings have torn the mask from the faces of those who talk about, “Democracy, Human Rights, Rule of Law” and other exalted slogans. The West,

the United States, The United Kingdom, Canada, Germany among others have lost all sense of mortality and stand condemned in the court of the World’s public opinion. Those countries are supporting Israel with weapons, intelligence, money and diplomacy This would shock many who used to see those societies as the ultimate in freedom and democracy.

However, they should not have been surprised.

Those countries have not overcome their own histories. Their racist past is alive and well in the mentality of the ruling classes. Their history of s l a v e r y, l y n c h i n g a n d genocide of native population still dominate the attitude and influence their actions of those in the US and UK. The fascist mentally seems to linger in the German ruling circles.

That is why not a word of sympathy hardly escape their lips. Whenever it does it rings very hollow. They do not condemn the murder of more than one hundred United Nations workers, nor the killing of almost one hundred Journalists, or their imprisonment and the deliberate targeting of their families. They are dead silent about the more than one hundred health workers killed at hospitals in ambulances and in their homes.

The “Western Democracies” have abandoned all pretences of being just and peace loving.

Every attempt at calling for a case fire at the United Nation have been sabotaged. They continue to supply the bombs, bullets and other military equipment to kill Palestinians. The ruling elite have been ignoring the demands of their own populations to halt the mass murder of innocent civilians.

To crown their hypocrisy, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Germany have joined with Israel in the case of Genocide that was brought by South Africa.

This should remove any doubts as to the real nature of the ruling classes in those countries. The ordinary working people of those “Western Democracies” must not delude themselves that they are safe from the viciousness of their rules.

Experiences has shown that whenever any of their own citizens oppose the apartheid regime in Israel the US leave them at the mercy of the racist Israeli regime. Those brave enough to stand up can expect no protection from their own government. Israel can do as it pleases.

Recall in 1967 that Israel attacked a United States of America spy ship and killed 34 United States nationals, wounded 171 and damaged the ship “USS Liberty”.

Israel got away with this.

Indeed, the US seems to want people to forget this attack by their own ally.

Recall too Rachel Corrie, just 23 years old who was killed by an Israeli bulldozer when she was protesting the demolition of a Palestinian home in the Gaza on March 16th, 2003. The United States did nothing to give justice to an American Citizen.

Only a few days ago an American Journalist, Gonzalo Lira who was living in Ukraine died in prison at the hands of the Fascist regime there. His ‘crime” was to speak the truth about what was happening in the Russia/Ukraine war. His father said that for the month he was in prison the United States Embassy or State Department did nothing to help him. They allowed him to die in prison at the hands of the Zelensky regime.

Almost Sixty Years ago, Dr. Cheddi Jagan sat down to record the role of the United States and United Kingdom in the sabotage of Democracy in Guyana. He titled his book “The West on Trial”. Had he been alive today and was writing about the Gaza he would not have had the same title. It would have been “The West in Guilty of Genocide” Sincerely Donald Ramotar Former President of Guyana

Let’s all help to stop the madness on our roads

DEAR EDITOR, Could you please publish this in the newspaper? About 12 years ago, the hire cars or private hire were the road pigs in Georgetown and around. About 5 years ago after the minibuses took that title, but Sir I am seeing a new level of lawlessness on the road, it’s now the sand trucks which comes with development, but development must not replace decency, only last week I was driving along Mandela Avenue, when a sand truck braced the car I was driving in trying to overtake me, however the lady that was driving managed to avoid collision and all ended well.

The same night I left for the airport on Friday September 22nd, 2023 while driving along the new road on the East Bank of Demerara there was a

collision between a sand truck and a 4x4, but because we were headed to the airport, we glanced and there was no injury, so we went on.

I returned to Guyana on Monday, September 25th, 2023 and on my way from Timehri to Houston, I saw two huge trucks fetching sand with no tarpaulin covering the back, the number for those trucks are GAF 2291 @ 12:35PM shortly after another sand truck GAE 7142 @ 1:15PM. I k n o w w i t h development, we would have an increase in sand trucks, but the increase of development shouldn’t shift aside of the rule of law on the road and decency in life. Mr. Editor, I am publishing my name and address to face off with anyone who challenges my article.

Lawlessness began to grow within this country

since 1966 with independence and continued thereafter. Lawlessness increased like compound interest and no political party shows any interest in addressing rule of law in Guyana.

Why does the bringing down of rule of law affect me?

I spent a number of years with Senior Police ranks of the Guyana Police Force at their homes during the August holiday, I am a DeAbreu, and my relatives hold every rank in the Guyana Police Force from constable to commissioner over the years.

I would like to conclude by saying that taxpayers pay their taxes so the government can convert tax into free education from nursery to university, if that person is killed on the road that is not only a profound loss to the family, but an economic loss to the country.

We in Guyana say it’s causing death by dangerous driving when the truth of the matter is that you kill someone by careless driving, that sir is murder and if we were to charge people with homicide by accident, people would be more careful with the way they use the road.

Our country is heading to total disaster, when it comes to rule of law as, much as there are hundreds of developments in our country the decency no longer exists, please give this your attention. I conclude by suggesting that you should ask for volunteers of your choice to sit on a committee headed by the commissioner of Police to discuss the rule of law in the country and traffic in the country, I sir, therefore, ,volunteer.

Yours Truly, Frank DeAbreu

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

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Guyanese Socio-economic Development and the 2024 Budget: Investments in Key Critical Areas for Growth DEAR EDITOR It’s budget time in Guyana, and with this comes the promulgation of President Irfaan Ali’s Government’s strategic priorities to continue economic growth while uplifting the lives of all Guyanese. As with all budgets, this budget is a statement of how government policies will be funded and the sources of receipts. The total budget has grown to $1.146 trillion compared to $781.9 billion last year, which is 46.6 percent larger than the 2023 budget. The remarkable success of this budget is that

it has no new taxes on Guyanese and is fully financed without new taxes; funding comes from increase in receipts. Contributing to a healthy budget, the Guyanese economy grew an impressive 34.3 percent in 2023. Still, more significantly, the non-oil economy increased by 11.9 percent, according to the Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh.

The importance of the budget is that it clearly outlines government priorities for the Guyanese people. According to President Ali, “All of these measures are aimed at

increasing disposable income, putting more money in the pockets of people, bolstering income for vulnerable groups, and, of course, improving the system of services, governance, and the provision of services for our c o u n t r y. ” Beyond controlling macroeconomic challenges such as inflation, household income, increasing gross domestic product (GDP), and improving access to healthcare and education for all Guyanese, the budget also focuses on those Guyanese in need.

The priorities outlined

Religious Fervor Grip Indo-NY Guyanese Hindus for Lord Rama Mandir Inauguration DEAR EDITOR, Religious fervor grips Hindus in Guyana and the diaspora over the coming inauguration of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir slated for January 22 in the tinsel town of Ayodhya, India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be Chief Guest at the inauguration and the consecration ceremonies.

Lord Rama is extremely important in the lives of Hindus. Hindus in the West (Caribbean) are excited and enthused about this grand opening of the Mandir.

Elaborate ceremonies are planned at almost every mandir in America, Guyana and the Caribbean for the occasion on the 21st and 22nd.

Everywhere in New York and other parts of the Guyanese Hindu diaspora, there is talk of the inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir. All the mandirs in North America and the Caribbean will hold special puja on January 21 and several of them will also host katha on January 22.

The Hindu Diaspora Foundation (HDF), founded

by Richmond Hill based Ramesh (Mark) Ramdeen, who is no stranger to Guyana, is on a public relations awareness and promotional campaign to inform Hindus in the diaspora and other interested people of the ceremony to consecrate Lord Rama murthi and the mandir inauguration in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh state from where many Hindus migrated to the Caribbean and the grimitya diaspora.

The ceremonies are planned for January 22 (January 21 evening New York time). He and his foundation are involved in several functions in Guyana and other parts of the Caribbean and New York

related to the January 22 ceremonies and inauguration.

The HDF founder notes that Shri Ram is returning to Ayodhya after thousands of years and is an occasion for celebration. A Ram mandir is built on the location where Shri Ram was born or appeared on earth over five thousand years ago. He says that this is a very joyous occasion, one to celebrate.

“That is why the HDF is promoting the organizing of celebrations and why it is hosting and or cosponsoring ceremonies at mandirs in several countries”.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

are also aligned with the People Progressive Party plan for the prosperity of the nation for all Guyanese, as stated in their manifesto: “We will continue to promote good governance, respect for the Constitution and the human rights of all Guyanese, while fostering an economic environment where jobs flourish, and there is guaranteed income for people.”

The 2024 budget is rooted in these principles and supports that promise. An example of this policy is the “…expanding household and community disposable income by $10 billion. This means that $10 billion that was not [there] the year before is now available in communities across the country to be spent in the markets and local shops. A person with a low-income house, who now goes on this programme and gets $40,000 every month, can repay the low-income loan and still have $12,000 in their pocket every month.

That is the impact of this policy,” According to Dr Ali. In economic planning, governments build their budgets to satisfy seven crucial areas, which include (1) promoting economic growth, (2) reducing inequalities in income and wealth, (3) re-allocation of resources, (4) economic stability, (4) growing the economy, (5) management of public enterprises, (6) reducing disparities, and (7) providing employment opportunities. As outlined

by Dr. Ashni Singh, the 2024 budget satisfies these criteria while supporting the Government’s focus on

socio-economic development priorities.

President Ali states this budget will “… stimulate spending, bolster income, and improve living conditions, addressing issues of cost of living,” Some of the significant direct impacts on Guyanese households and individuals include an allocation of $7 billion to increase food production to reduce prices, this will have an immediate impact across Guyana and a $8,000 increase to pensioners as well as an increase of $3,000 to those on public assistance. Considerable allocation to healthcare, including eye care for students and pensioners and $8,000 for cancer identification for treatment.

Expansion of part-time jobs program with $10 billion budgeted. Increasing access to healthcare with a deduction from their chargeable income for premiums paid for life and medical insurance up to a maximum of 10 percent of their income o r $ 5 0 , 0 0 0 m o n t h l y, w h i c h e v e r i s l o w e r.

Household income increases with an increase in the monthly income tax threshold from $85,000 to $100,000.

In terms of the Socioeconomic development of Guyanese, this budget shows a significant commitment to this concept based on its sector allocations. The Government is focused on access to healthcare, which is demonstrated by the $129.8 billion budgeted to continue the transformation of the health sector into one that meets world-class standards. This includes new

and improved healthcare facilities and the training and development of qualified healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. In the education sector, $129.8 billion has been budgeted for the continued transformation of the health sector into one that meets world-class standards. A budget of $78 billion has been allocated to develop further housing infrastructure countrywide, while $22.5 billion has been for improved drinkable water across the nation. Also, a total of $48.3 billion has been budgeted to pursue initiatives in social services directly impacting the poor and elderly.

Regarding food, $97.6 billion is budgeted to advance and catalyze agriculture development. A $90.6 billion budget has been budgeted to pursue the g o v e r n m e n t ’s o v e r a l l objective of the security sector. Given the budgeted amounts, this budget has a firm commitment to the development of Guyanese; the outcome would be improved quality of life for all.

In terms of improving governance and improved services to Guyanese households and businesses, the budget supports efforts in transparency, improving commerce, and building a more robust, technologically a d v a n c e d e c o n o m y.

Guyanese stands to benefit directly from the 2024 budget, and their Government is making them the priority.

Respectfully, Dr. Tilokie Arnold Depoo, Economist

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 19, 2024

PPP/C abuse of social media The Coalition must examine its own record on the issue of scholarships

DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to express my concern about the PPP/C’s use of social media pages and fake profiles to attack citizens who do not share its view.

This is antidemocratic and does not auger well for good governance.

The call by Vice President has laid the foundation.

Similarly, the call by Jagdeo to go after c r i t i c s o f t h e government should be rejected since it can lead to an undemocratic Guyana.

Vice President Jagdeo’s call has set a troubling precedent.

The use of social media to target individuals with opposing opinions contradicts the principles of a healthy democratic society, where diverse perspectives should be respected and encouraged.

Th e u s e o f s o c i a l media for promoting lies, misinformation and propaganda by governments and i n d i v i d u a l s i s widespread.

Attempts by the government to suppress criticisms and manipulate public political discourse, not only destroys public trust but also compromises the very core of a democratic society.

This behaviour is not

only anti-democratic but also raises serious questions about the commitment to good governance.

Citizens should enjoy the fundamental right to express opinions without fear of reprisal.

H o w e v e r, w h a t i s exhaustingly hypocritical about the Vice President is the fact that it is public knowledge that a known party affiliate, who has been using his social media platform to launch verbal attacks against government critics, and whom the Vice President has been entertaining at special oneon- one interviews, has been awarded a state contract under questionable circumstances.

This raises serious questio n s a b o u t t h e integrity of the government’s contracting processes and the ethical standards upheld by our highest – ranking officials.

The blatant misuse and abuse of power to suppress dissent coupled with preferential treatment accorded to those align with the ruling party (PPP/C), presents an extremely distressing picture of our political landscape.

Worse, this is happening in our country with enormous oil wealth flowing in the hand of the government that is seeking to stifle dissenting voices.

This has real implications for the essentials of a democratic

society. The interplay between oil money and the abuse of power undermines the foundation of democracy and creates a suitable environment for injustice, and inequality.

Therefore, it is troubling to hear of the recent call by Jagdeo to go after critics of the government.

This approach, if adopted, could contribute to an unstable Guyana, as it stifles open dialogue and discourages citizens from expressing legitimate concerns about governance.

In the spirit of a robust and vibrant democracy, it is crucial that we reject any attempts to silence dissent and create an environment where citizens feel free to express their opinions without fear of reprisal.

A government’s responsiveness to criticism is a fundamental aspect of good governance and helps build a stronger and more accountable society. Guyana is losing its status as a democratic state daily and it is time that the international community take note of these developments.

I urge the relevant authorities to uphold democratic values and ensure that political discourse remains respectful and inclusive.

It is only through open dialogue and a commitment to democratic principles that Guyana can thrive as a stable and flourishing nation.

Sincerely, H. Singh

DEAR EDITOR, The APNU+AFC Coalition’s reaction to the government’s commendable achievement of providing over 2,000 scholarships, with ongoing efforts to s u r p a s s t h a t n u m b e r, reveals a deep-seated unease. It is from this point of view its claim that the 2024 budgetary allocation for GOAL is going to someone close to the PPP/C government must be viewed.

Under the PPP/C administration, more than 21,000 Guyanese have benefited from scholarships through initiatives such as GOAL, with an additional 400+ individuals receiving scholarships via the Public

Service Ministry.

In contrast, the APNU+AFC Coalition’s record on the issuance of scholarships is appalling.

Examining the track record of the former government, it becomes evident that their scholarship distribution was marred by favoritism and nepotism.

Demerara Waves reported on December 14th, 2016 (https://demerarawaves.co m/2016/12/14/millionspent-on-fully-fundeds c h o l a r s h i p s - f o r- g o v t ministers-others-close-toapnuafc/) that several Ministers and other persons close to the coalition were given scholarship worth tens of millions of dollars.

The list extended to

include the children of Ministers and government MPs. The stark contrast b e t w e e n t h e P P P / C ’s inclusive and meritbased scholarship initiatives and the PNC/APNU/AFC’s questionable practices highlights the need for a transparent and equitable approach to e d u c a t i o n a l opportunities in Guyana.

The Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, should answer for the Coalition’s track record on scholarships during the 2015-2020 period.

Sincerely, BRIAN AZORE

Govt. appealing decision against NIS is bad DEAR EDITOR, Should the Attorney General (AG) be defending and supporting the NIS appeal to Justice Damone Younge’s ruling?

Should the AG should call off the appeal instead?

Though there may be ’LEGAL’ arguments for the appeal, the reality is that NIS is failing to deliver the benefits due to the employed and the retired.

The ACT (at 31), provides for the NIS to appoint inspectors to give effect to the provisions of the A C T. T h e N I S contributions are

compulsory. The contributions are to be collected by employers and handed over to the NIS. The NIS, via its inspectors, is responsible to see that the monies are handed over..

Are the NIS inspectors failing in their duties to ensure compliance by employers?

The Government needs to accept that there are flaws within NIS and commit to do all that is necessary to overcome them. The focus should forever be to get NIS to deliver what is promised in the National Insurance and Social Security Act.

Also, the AG should champion the amendment of 45 (1) to make NIS responsible for taking errant employers to court to recover all unpaid payments.

The affected employees and retirees should not be the ones to take the employers to court. Who is better able to get employers to meet their legal obligations?

The NIS failures result in thousands of workers and retirees unfairly penalized for decades. Powerless Guyanese deserve their Government to show that it cares deeply for them too.

Faiyaz Alli

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B T LUNT. UNT...B BL Friday January 19, 2024

Kaieteur News

Come next week, Parliamentarians will make their contributions to the 2024 budget debate. For the sake of the current and future generations, we urge you to conduct yourselves with decorum; resist the temptation of turning the National Assembly into an early morning cuss out in a tenement yard.

Resist the temptation of contaminating the House with your foul expressions.

Show some respect for yourselves and colleagues. Remember, the seats you occupy are not just furniture; they are symbols of the trust and expectations of the Guyanese people.

Act with the responsibility and decorum befitting your roles as Leaders of our nation. Give us a parliamentary debate to be proud of. Let 2024 be the year you embody the maturity, wisdom, and discernment that your positions demand.

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 8 10

Monday Friday January May 02,19, 2022 2024

Govt. says court has no jurisdiction

to order release of Exxon's US$2B guarantee ...litigants threaten to take matter to CCJ over contempt Sanjeev Datadin, the lawyer representing the S t a t e - o w n e d Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is challenging the jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal to order ExxonMobil Guyana to produce evidence that it has lodged the $2 billion parent guarantee in the event of an oil spill here.

Datadin raised the issue of jurisdiction in the case where two Guyanese challenged the oil company over the failure to provide unlimited liability coverage to Guyana in the event of oil spills. Pending the final outcome of an appeal, presiding Justice Rishi Persaud had Exxon to lodge a US$2 Billion parent and/or affiliate company guarantee.

Since that order was issued on June 8, 2023, the litigants said their lawyers have been unable to secure a copy of the said guarantee for perusal.

A summons was subsequently filed on November 1, 2023 for orders directing the EPA and Exxon to produce a copy of the

US$2 billion guarantee. On Thursday, Datadin told the Court, that his client the EPA's instructions are not to acquiesce to the summons at this time.

“My instruction at this time is to resist the application while they will consider their position as it relates to the disclosure. It is not as if one person can do it they want to speak to the members of t he board as it relates to that … between last week and today they haven't been able to do that…,” Datadin said.

He related too that his position on the application before the court is that the court does not have the jurisdiction to proceed with that sort of order. As such, the lawyer has requested time to address the court on the issue of its jurisdiction. Senior Counsel, Seenath Jairam who is representing the litigants in the matter lamented on the fact that Exxon has been dragging its feet to provide proof that it lodged the sums with the Court.

Jairam stressed that the

Lawyer for the State owned EPA, Sanjeev Datadin judge made the order to lodge the sum since June 2023, and though the litigants have used appropriate mediums to request to see the proof that the $2B was lodged with the Court, they have not provided …

“Exxon is playing with fire...l am going to file contempt proceedings and I am going to argue that they are not incompliance. Since they are being difficult and

Attorney for the litigants, Seenath Jairam, SC

adversari al, I will take a very hard view and they will end up at the CCJ,” blurted a visibly upset Jairam.

For his part, ExxonMobil Guyana's lawyer, Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo told the Court that the company has complied with the order and lodged the $2billion guarantee.

However, since the Court must hear the contentions

raised by the EPA, he said he too will submit a response to the point of jurisdiction. As such, the court ordered to the lawyers to make their submission on the issue of jurisdiction on or before January 22. Senior Counsel Jairam was granted until January 25 to respond to the jurisdictional contentions.

The court will hear the oral argument on February 1, 2024 at 11:00 am.

The litigants had filed a case back in September 2022 so that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can be ordered to secure from Exxon Guyana, unlimited liability coverage for oil spills. In so doing, Guyana would be fully protected from any hidden costs associated with an unmitigated spill from one or more projects in the Stabroek Block.

On May 3, 2023, High Court Judge, Justice Sandil Kisson ruled in favour of the litigants and ordered the EPA to secure an unlimited parent and/or affiliate company guarantee for oil spills. To circumvent compliance with that order, Exxon and the EPA through their lawyers, appealed and were successful in staying Justice Kissoon's decision.

Two Guyanese who have made numerous requests through their lawyers to see ExxonMobil Guyana's US$2 billion parent company guarantee continue to hit a brick wall. The litigants, (Continuned on page 9)

Jagdeo defends keeping his “claws” sunken in oil sector, ...says again Petroleum Commission will come in due time

V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo continues to defend his reasons for keeping “his claws” sunken deep in the oil sector, saying that an independent petroleum commission will come on stream when Guyana has matured in the sector.

On Thursday at his weekly news conference Jagdeo was asked by this publication: “how do you respond to the criticism that the only reason why there is no Petroleum Commission in place is because you are obsessed with control of decision-making and circumspect about independent oversight of the sector?”

Jagdeo said that, “No it is

not obsession with control, (being the reason for) the Petroleum Commission not being in place as yet, we made it clear that the model in different countries for managing the oil and gas s e c t o r v a r y, a n d t h a t ultimately we will like to get to a Petroleum Commission.”

He noted that government is currently pushing through with reforms in the sector. He said establishing a petroleum commission requires a lot of cabinet and also a lot of policy making time. As such he said they can achieve the framework, which they have had success in and that they can get that framework put in place swiftly without compromising any function that a commission would have engaged in.

“We have put in place a Petroleum Activities Bill you know that replacing the 1986 one we did it through public consultation; we are now drafting the regulations, the Safety Regulations, the Environmental Regulations which will be drafted soon to support a modern legislation.”

He further boasted that, “We have expanded the scope for regulation in the Natural Resource Fund, the Local Content Law which has had great success we saw about 6000 people now are employed in the Oil and Gas Sector, the report from the Local Content Sector this is happening increasingly so because of that law and the other measures that we have taken.

So the petroleum commission will happen but it will happen at a time when we have some level of capacity and maturity in the sector.”

This publication recently reported that the VP at a previous press conference had assured that the government will honour its promise to have a Petroleum Commission when the time is right. Such a regulatory body is established by a government to oversee and manage the exploration, development, and production of petroleum resources within its jurisdiction.

It ensures compliance with laws and regulations, manages licences and permits, and often plays a role in promoting sustainable

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo and efficient utilization of petroleum resources. During his first press conference for the year at the Office of the

President, Dr. Jagdeo assured that this has not been removed from the government's agenda.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

PAGE 09

Berbice man mauled to death by mixed-breed dogs,

A

6 4 - y e a r- o l d man identified as Latchmanen Permaul called ‘Blackboy’ of Hampshire, Corentyne Berbice, was allegedly mauled to death by three mixed-breed dogs early Tuesday morning at Toopoo Village Corentyne Berbice.

According to police reports the man’s 61-yearold wife , Sandra Permaul said that on Monday afternoon her husband left their home and ventured to a liquor shop in Topoo where he spent some time imbibing. After he became intoxicated, he had some difficulties making his way back home and had stopped

at the corner of the street where he was observed sleeping on the ground. On Tuesday around 05:00hrs Sandra got information that her husband was observed lying on the street corner and ‘three Pit Bull’ dogs bore out of a fence’” nearby from where he was lying and subsequently viciously attacked him.

The man’s body was examined by police ranks and there were marks assumed to be dog bites on both of his legs and his neck, as well as his right hip and hand. The body was picked up and rushed to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he was pronounced

dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.

On Thursday between 09:10 and 09:52 hrs, a PostMortem Examination (PME) with dissection was done on the body of Permaul

by Dr. Brijmohan at the Skeldon Public Hospital’s Mortuary. Dr. Brigmohan gave the cause of death as:a ) S h o c k a n d Hemorrhage b) Multiple Lacerations A 35-year-old resident of Topoo Village, who is said to be the owner of the dogs, was arrested and escorted to Albion Police Station, where he was placed into custody, pending further investigations.

Govt. says court has no jurisdictionto order...

From page 8 Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte, had filed a case back in September 2022 so that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can be ordered to secure from Exxon Guyana, unlimited liability coverage for oil spills.

In so doing, Guyana would be fully protected from any hidden costs associated with an unmitigated spill from one or more projects in the Stabroek Block. On May 3, 2023, High Court Judge, Justice Sandil Kissoon ruled in favour of the litigants and ordered the EPA to secure an unlimited parent and/or affiliate company guarantee for oil spills.

To circumvent compliance with that order, Exxon and the EPA through their lawyers, appealed and were successful in staying Justice’s Kissoon’s decision.

Pending the final outcome of the appeal, Justice Persaud ordered Exxon to lodge a US$2 Billion parent and or affiliate company guarantee.

Since that order was issued on June 8, 2023, the litigants said their lawyers which include Jairam SC, leading Melinda Janki and Abiola Wong-Inniss have been

unable to secure a copy of the said guarantee for perusal.

Janki wrote several letters to the lawyers for the EPA and Exxon requesting a copy of the US$2 Billion guarantee but none was produced.

In fact, requests were also made to the Registrar of the Supreme Court and the Court of the Appeal but these efforts did not bear fruit.

In light of the foregoing, a summons was filed on November 1, 2023, for orders directing the EPA and Exxon to produce a copy of the US$2billion guarantee. In the summons seen by this newspaper, Collins said, “I am advised by my Attorney-at-Law, Melinda Janki, and do verily believe that over the course of four months, she has consistently and persistently sent four u n a n s w e r e d communications, copying all the parties’ representatives, to the Court’s Registrar requesting a copy of the said Order and the reasons associated with same…”

Given the failure to see the document, Collins said, “I, in particular feel that we

have been gravely denied justice and I feel hurt that after such interminable delays in a relatively straightforward matter we encounter obstacles in our way obstructing our progress in a public interest matter before the hierarchy of courts in Guyana…”

He further noted that in the absence of any evidence in the court record that Exxon has lodged the guarantee, the company is therefore in contempt of court, and the original order issued on May 3, 2023 by Justice Kissoon, is reinstated.

While the matter languishes and the remedy already granted is inhibited by the stay handed down by Justice of Appeal Persaud, Collins said Guyana remains on the hook for all costs of clean-up, restoration and compensation which Exxon cannot meet.

He reasoned that such a massive expense is a direct threat to Guyana’s economic viability, particularly in light of the uncooperative and evasive responses from the attorneys-at-law for Exxon and the EPA and their failure to provide a copy of the said US$2 billion guarantee.

- died of shock, hemorrhage- autopsy reveals

Two of the three dogs involved in the attack.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10 S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

Friday Monday January May 02, 19,2022 2024

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

Learning the long way about leaders, particularly Brother, Barry It took a development that came out of the belly of Guyana's Opposition to open my eyes, help connect the dots.

Numerous things were wrong, suspect, flawed with the management of this great oil endowment, but somehow, I didn't strike the nail square. It has nothing to do with numbers, charts, graphs, or footnotes.

It had everything to do with leaders and their words, postures, actions, reactions, and something indefinable.

Their spirit. Their soul laid bare.

Their weaknesses exposed for the world to see.

I saw, but didn't see with the sharpest clarity.

When I say leaders, I speak of all three: President Irfaan Ali, former President Bharrat Jagdeo, and President-in-waiting Aubrey Norton.

Now follow me, and learn, as I use the David Patterson removal and reversal to register a point. It should emphasize beyond all

doubt where Guyana and Guyanese are with this oil.

If I were to call Brother Jagdeo a racist in the public domain, he may shrug, shake his head in denial, hold his arms wide open. He may even ignore such an allegation. If he cares, he may utter a dismissive word or two. But it is unlikely that he would go further in the face of such a denouncement that scars the soul.

If I were to assert that Brother Jagdeo is corrupt in any space, that may get a rise out of him, but he is smart enough to let that go, and to be swallowed up by the rush of events. Rare would be the day that he spends a minute to engage in shouting or spitting about something that goes to the very heart of his integrity, leadership, and person.

If I were to say that he is vindictive and vicious, with victims and archives to attest, he would ride that tide, and sail along serenely; a man confident in his untouchability, supremely

settled in his ascendancy. If I were to afflict with the worst of insults or derogation, there would hardly be a ruffle. But talk about oil, and the demons come out and takeover. For the record, far be it for me to ascribe being a racist, corrupt, or a vengeful man and leader to the same Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, a onetime president for a long t i m e , a c u r r e n t Vi c e President, and now the President of Policy. Or to Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Or to Aubrey Compton Norton.

All that is desired, envisioned, is talk straight and true (and patriotic) about this oil.

Now for the beginning of the story that eluded me, in that it was fleshed out and stretched out and laid out as I do in this instance. By way of reminder, it took the David Patterson fall and return to usher to the keenest focus.

Call it a belated epiphany.

I talk about oil and Bharrat Jagdeo raves and rants, rails and rouses himself

to incredible heights of rage.

For what, my brother? Oil? How does a point about interest rate brings out such sinister thunder, lets loose such incredible darkness?

Make a point about oilquarterly earnings, Exxon's shareholders largess, Guyanese impoverishment and disappointments-and upend the arguments and pies and bars and candlesticks that are crafted, and the furies of hell are freed. Traitor.

Undisclosed owner. And more. I reconnect Guyanese to the groundwork laid: hypothetically brand a man a racist or corrupt or vicious, and there is barely a whimper.

But study the responses, how they flare and sizzle when contrarian points or postures are made about oil.Has any Guyanese ever seen Jagdeo reach the level of shrillness and sickness that he does when oil is the issue: question, comment, vision, contradiction?

What is going on there with this oil that is so supremely sensitive, that is so sacrosanct? That is taken so personally, even though presented clinically? What is it that has gotten hold of Bharrat Jagdeo that he feels

that he has to run in front of Alistair Routledge and absorb a blow interpreted as for the American? Worse still, what is in it for him that he feels compelled to go to war for Exxon and Woods and Routledge? Why does Jagdeo take it upon himself to try to vanquish any Guyanese (by any means and using any method) who dare to stand up and say: my brother Bharrat, de ile aint gat no clothes…and Exxon is naked and looking dreadful and wretched….

Clearly, in the heart and soul of Bharrat Jagdeo, he now lives to protect and defend Exxon and its constitution on this oil of ours.

It is now the most precious possession, more than a sacred cow. More precious than a citizen's character, a man's reputation, a leader's patriotism, a different kind of Guyanese ethos on this blessing that is now a curse.

When a leader of the stature of Bharrat Jagdeo can curse his fellow citizens at the rate that he does, and in the ways that he does, then of what value is this accursed gift anymore? This is what Alistair Routledge has

reduced my people, my brothers, my own to, and it shows. Good God Almighty!

I could call a man the worst of names, accuse him of the most grotesque attributes, and he hardy flinches. But go against him on this oil, and it becomes a matter of life and death.

Something went wrong, is wrong. We all know what and why and how, don't we?

My fellow Guyanese: is this being read, heard, understood?

I depart with this final word on David Patterson. He had his troubles, and they came to nothing. He sounds off on ring-fencing and it is the final solution (politically).

Sanity did return, find a footing: he was discarded, then retrieved.

This is what oil has done to Guyana. When the extreme worst of Jagdeo wishes to be seen, deal in oil in a way different from him. Hell flows over most furiously.

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

Friday January 19, 2024

Kaieteur News

Man accused of killing, burying Linden girl in shallow grave nabbed in Suriname More than two years after the body of Shonette Dover was found in a shallow grave at the back of her boyfriend's home at Linden, Suriname police arrested, Shaqawn Alleyne, called as “Iswe Boss,” who is wanted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in relation to the murder of the young woman.

Suriname's Waterkant.net reported on Thursday that after thorough investigation, Alleyne was identified, arrested and handed over to the police in the Dutch-speaking country for arraignment.

Alleyne, 24, will be transferred to Guyana according to procedure, the report stated.Dover's body was discovered on

Friday, April 30, 2021, in a shallow grave at the back of Alleyne's Canvas City, Linden residence, where the two lived before she died. The woman was missing for 28 days.

She was reported missing on Sunday, April 4, by Alleyne who had told her relatives that he had no idea where she was, and assumed that she had left for work.

Dover's 15-year-old relative, who had admitted to helping Alleyne to bury the young woman's body and led police to the site, has since been charged with accessory after the fact of murder, and remanded to the Juvenile Detention Centre.

The teen allegedly confessed to the crime and agreed to take investigators to the scene where she said, she, along with Alleyne, allegedly buried her relative.

The teen told investigators that on the night of April 3, 2021, Alleyne was oiling his brownish gun in his living room. She said the suspect then pointed the gun at Dover who told him “he like play and he should put away that thing.” The young lady said she then heard a loud sound, akin to that of a firework.

Alleyne who is not a licensed firearm holder subsequently exclaimed, “Oh shoots, I shoot that girl!”

The 15-year-old said she then saw (Continued on page 22)

PAGE 11

Fugitive, Shaqawn Alleyne called ' IZWE’

PAGE 12

Friday January 19, 2024

Kaieteur News

Another billion for CJIA “rehab” project T

he Government of Guyana (GoG) has allocated $1.1 billion in the 2024 national budget for the ongoing modernisation of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

According to the budget estimates, the money will be spent on the apron, taxiways and airline offices for the airport.

Recently addressing criticism on the decade-old CJIA expansion project, Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo blamed the APNU+AFC Coalition Government for turning the US$150 million endeavour into a “rehab project.”

The contract for the airport expansion project was signed in 2011, under Jagdeo's tenure as president, with China Harbour and Engineering Corporation (CHEC).

The Jagdeo-led administration acquired a US$138 million loan from the China Exim Bank, and

used US$12 million from the Consolidated Fund (taxpayers' money) for the total project cost of US$150 million.

Jagdeo said that the US$150 million contract was signed with CHEC for a new airport. However, he said it was the Coalition government that made changes which resulted in it being a rehabilitation project.

According to reports, upon assuming office in 2015, the David Granger administration deemed the airport plan defective, necessitating adjustments.

Subsequently, in August 2020, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill expressed dissatisfaction with the contractor's work.

Consequently, negotiations resulted in additional works being undertaken by CHEC at no extra cost to Guyana. These enhancements included a superstructure, corridor, and curtain wall.

While the US$150 million rehabilitation works by CHEC is completed, the PPP-administration has substantially increased spending for the modernization of the airport, albeit falling below international standards and expectations.

A contract to the tune of $890 Million was awarded to Avinash Contracting & Scrap Metal Inc. for the construction of the new

administration building in October 2022.

Notably, another $45 million covered the design and supervision of the new administration building.

A contract to the tune of $513.7 million was awarded to Kallco Guyana Incorporated in August 2022 for the construction of a building to house a conference room, offices for the airlines and other supporting agencies, and a

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport

duty-free bond.

In November last year, a $703 Million contract was awarded to Avinash Construction and Scrap Metal Inc. to renovate the airport's apron.

Other additional works include the installation of an in-line baggage handling system which is expected to cost approximately $512 million. Rehabilitation works are also ongoing on the taxiway.

Rising gun crimes giving Govt. headache Despite recording a 17% reduction in serious crimes last year, authorities here are concerned about the hike in gun crimes and have promised to go after the smugglers.

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn on Wednesday told reporters that the police in collaboration with the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) have been in the fight to reduce the availability of guns, the use of guns and the smuggling of guns in Guyana.

Authorities have seized some 149 guns last year. The minister reminded that Guyana does not manufacture guns but import from selected countries. “There are some issue of guns, historically in the control of public security agencies but somehow found its way into the hands of criminals,” the minister said.

Noting that Guyana's economic activities have made it an attraction for criminal activities, Minister Benn noted that GPF and CANU will be working on identifying where the guns are entering the country. “Both CANU and the police have been seizing guns throughout the country, from various persons hoping to commit crimes or protecting marijuana fields,” the Home Affairs Minister added.

He said too, “While there has

Some firearms seized been, in fact, a reduction in robbery under arms, using firearms, we are indeed concerned about the question of the use (and) the availability of firearms in our country.”

Moreover, the minister made it clear that the government will not do a gun amnesty programme but

he urged those in possession of illegal firearms to hand them over to the nearest police station or put them somewhere it can be found.

“If you have an illegal gun, pass by the police station, put it in a bag and throw it in the yard…”

“You are not supposed to have any illegal guns…We are thoroughly

against it…” Benn said. “The question of having an illegal gun in more instances, it has nothing to do with being somebody in the bush (to hunt), it has to do with criminal activities,” the minister said.

The minister disclosed that there will be funding from countries like Canada and Germany

in relation to legislation for gun crimes and drugs possession. “We don't want to have a society in which people have guns all over the place…I believe if somebody is found with an illegal gun and you have known associates, no bail should be given. I don't know how people get bail for gun possession,”

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

PAGE 13

$6.8B for justice sector ...new magistrates' courts, digitization of management systems on the cards Minister with the office of the President with the Responsibility of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh on Monday announced a series of measures which will be taken for the expansion and upgrade of the local judiciary.

To facilitate and expand justice system across Guyana, Dr. Singh said the government completed the new Magistrates Court and living quarters at Vigilance and substantially advanced work on Magistrates Courts and living quarters at Anna Regina, Cove and John, Friendship, Mabaruma, Mahaicony, Mahdia, Port Kaituma and Timehri. This is in addition to work being done on the Court of Appeal in Kingston.

He said the work will continue in 2024 under the $6.8 billion budgetary allocation in the 2024 budget. Dr. Singh said that in this

regard, investments in this sector since 2020, have targeted the modernisation of the legal architecture of the state, ensuring access to justice for all, constitutional reform, and revising the laws of Guyana.

To this end, he noted that budget 2023 saw an investment of $5.3 billion for the strengthening of the justice sector, and budget 2024 allocated an additional $6.8 billion.

“In 2023, a sum of $1.3 billion was spent on upgrading court facilities and $1.7 billion is budgeted in 2024 to complete these works.”

As it relates to the introduction of Restorative Justice, the Minister said that in addition to introducing the Restorative Justice Act passed in late 2022, the Restorative Justice Centre was established in Region Four.

“The objective of this initiative

is the reduction of recidivism, through provision for rehabilitation of victims and offenders and in turn, eases overreliance on custodial sentences. To this end, $257.4 million was expended in 2023. In 2024, $291 million is budgeted for these and related activities,” Dr. Singh said.

Additionally, Dr. Singh noted that the Government has invested in the strengthening the court's technical capacity. “SMART courts are becoming increasingly accessible using video conferencing and digital recording systems. In 2023, equipment was purchased to aid in the modernisation of the legal system and Budget 2024 provides for further rollout of this initiative in other courts.” “…The Court Case Management System was piloted at Diamond-Grove Magistrates Court

The Supreme Court of Judicature

in December 2023, contributing to improved efficiency with the intention of this initiative being implemented in all courts through a phased approach. Through this initiative, the court records will eventually be fully digitalised making them easily accessible.”

Further, Dr. Singh noted the Government recognises that having adequate human resources to complement the infrastructural investments is a prerequisite for the efficient functioning of the justice sector.

In this regard, he noted that steps have been taken for amendment to the Court of Appeal Act in the National Assembly in 2023 which now allows for not less than five and not more than nine judges sitting in the Court of Appeal, compared to two and five

judges previously. The intervention is aimed at having two sittings of the Court of Appeal simultaneously or consecutively, to reduce the backlog in cases.

With the reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission, Dr. Singh said that Government has already begun the process to fill critical vacancies in the Judiciary including Justices of Appeal, Magistrates and Puisne Judges.

Additionally, in 2023, 32 special prosecutors were trained to prosecute cases in the Magistrates Courts on behalf of the State thereby strengthening the prosecutorial arm of the justice system in Regions Three , Four, Five, Six and Ten. In 2024, an additional nine special prosecutors will join the existing cohort.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Friday January 19, 2024

Criminal bench books distributed to legal fraternity to lift judicial efficiency, consistency Stakeholders within Guyana's legal fraternity on Wednesday received the Criminal Bench Books for

Magistrates and Parish Court Judges in the Caribbean, Volumes One to Three, which will assist in the execution of

their cases judiciously and efficiently.

The comprehensive manuals were handed over to

prosecutorial bodies including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, magistracy, police prosecutor's office, Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), the Berbice Bar Association, and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

During the handing-over ceremony at the Guyana Police Force's Officers' Training Centre, Camp Street, Georgetown, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, SC, Mohabir Anil Nandlall said the book is a timely addition to the work Guyana has done and continues to execute in the administration of justice.

“The book presents a complete authoritative manual that can easily provide the type of guidance that is required both in court and when more in-depth research is required outside of the Court…One of the greatest characteristics of a proper justice system is one that applies the law consistently a n d u n i f o r m l y, ” t h e Attorney General stated.

Minister Nandlall is optimistic that the criminal bench books will significantly enhance the alignment of perspectives and foster a deeper level of understanding.

“A great time and effort will have to now be

Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, handing over of criminal bench books to Chief Justice (ag.), Roxanne George Wiltshire expended in finding commonality in the three sources from which the law is being drawn in a singular case. That clash is removed and replaced by a common symphony with the utilisation of a common source of guidance. And that is what the book presents,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, highlighted that the books encompass legislations applicable to all jurisdictions.

She expressed hopes that magistrates will be able to perform promptly and there will be a better quality of the hearing being conducted as

A section of the event the handing over ceremony

well as decision making. The gesture is part of the Support for the Criminal Justice Project, which is a partnership between the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the InterDevelopment Bank (IDB).

Country Representative o f t h e I n t e r- A m e r i c a n Development Bank (IDB), Lorena Solorzano Salazar said Guyana will continue to receive support from the IDB in addressing issues relating to its heavily populated prison system to bring measures to relieve the police, prosecution, j u d i c i a r y, a n d p r i s o n resources of the state.(DPI)

Friday January 19, 2024

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Billions set aside to build, upgrade markets The Government of Guyana has set aside billions of dollars of its national budget to cater to the needs of local government facilities.

On Monday evening Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh announced several infrastructural programmes and upgrades set to take place in the various municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) under a $10 budgetary allocation for local government bodies.

Giving a breakdown of how the sum is intended to used Dr. Singh noted in 2024, $1 billion is budgeted to be transferred to Local

Democratic Organs (LDOs) as subventions. He explained that in terms of infrastructure, in particular, community markets which are often the center of community economic life, $417.2 million was expended in 2023 to advance works in five community markets at Charity, Hydronie, Leonora, Mon Repos and Parika but in 2024, $1.2 billion is budgeted to complete these markets and to rehabilitate Corriverton, Kumaka and Suddie markets.

Additionally, over $50 million is budgeted for the rehabilitation of LDO buildings in various communities. “With the specific objective of providing support for

routine maintenance of community infrastructure, 2,381 persons were employed under the Community Enhancement Workers Programme to continuously complement our LDOs and help upgrade the aesthetics of our communities,” Dr. Singh added. In 2023, he noted $1.5 billion was expended and another $1.5 billion is provided for in B u d g e t 2 0 2 4 .

Furthermore, the Finance Minister revealed that 15,890 persons from Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10 were recruited through the National Pathway Workers Project to augment the labour force at a local level and provide support for (Continued on page 22)

Suddie Market on the Essequibo Coast set for upgrades in 2024

PAGE 20

Friday January 19, 2024

Kaieteur News

$478M to drill new wells in 25 hinterland villages Twenty-five Hinterland villages located in Regions One, Three, and Seven will soon benefit from new water wells, as the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) tenders for $478.1 million in projects.

The government, through GWI, is inviting sealed bids for the projects which are divided into some eight lots.

GWI has estimated $44.8 million to drill wells in Kangaruma, Itaballi, and Kaburi 72 Miles, all areas located in Region Seven.

In the Lower Mazaruni, Region Seven, the agency is estimating that $43.3 million will go towards the drilling of wells at Karrau, Kartabo, and Batavia.

In Region Three, GWI stated that $70 million is estimated to drill wells at Caria Caria, Santa Mission, and Lower Bonasika.

In Region One, where several wells are scheduled to be dug, GWI noted that $80 million is set aside for wells at Wa i o a k a r a b i , C h i n e s e Landing, Assakata and at Kariako. Also in Region One, $120 million is estimated to construct wells at Santa Cruz, Kokorite, and Warapoka; and Imbotero, Smith's Creek, and Sebai.

Further, GWI revealed

t

hat $40 million is pegged to drill wells at Hotaquai and Hobodiah villages and another $80 million is estimated for wells at Barima Kariabo, St. Anslem, Red Hill, and Powaikuri.

Bids for the water well projects are scheduled to open on January 30, 2024 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office.

During this year's budget presentation, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with the Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh had mentioned that government spent a total of $16.8 billion last year to improve water quality and supply systems across the country.

This year, government has budgeted $22.5 billion for further advancements in the water sector.

New DNA system at forensic lab making improvements in clearing backlogs – Min. Benn The Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) is now making strides in clearing the backlogs of (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) DNA testing with the new analysis workflow system acquired through the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Speaking to reporters on We d n e s d a y , M i n i s t e r Robeson Benn said specific tests are being conducted with the new machine although it is not fully operationalised.

“We're waiting on specific instrumentation in relation to making that even faster [but] we have seen improvements in making up the backlog, which we had for particular examinations at the Guyana Forensic S c i e n c e L a b o r a t o r y, ” Minister Benn explained.

In 2022, the National Assembly approved $50.5 million to provide additional resources to support the laboratory, specifically for

acquiring the DNA analysis workflow system. It was acquired since the waiting time for DNA test results was lengthy due to the samples being sent abroad. Minister Benn also disclosed that officials will visit a regional laboratory soon.

“We should be having a visit shortly to a regional laboratory in respect of t h e i r p ro c e d u re s a n d methodology in respect of the forensic laboratory issues,” the Home Affairs Minister noted. Additionally, four experts have been employed in various specialities to enhance the capacity of the forensic laboratory further. The government was compelled to acquire a new DNA system since the system purchased in 2017 was deemed nonfunctional due to the discontinuation of its production by the company.

(DPI)

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

PAGE 21

40% of budget to be funded by loans - VP Jagdeo

T

his year's Budget - some 46.6% greater than last year's fiscal plan- is to be financed 40% in part by loans.

This is according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.

He made this disclosure during a press conference hosted at the Office of the President on Thursday.

Jagdeo said, “About 60 odd percent of the budget is financed from revenue which is significant because we have seen a significant growth in revenue, and the rest through debt.”

Be that as it may the Vice President said Guyana is not worsening its global debt profile. He said he has repeatedly explained that the country's debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio is among the lowest in the Region.

Moreover, he pointed out that only US$1.8B of the US$4.5B is external debt.

In justifying the government's position to borrow more, he explained, “In 1990, our gross domestic product was approximately US$300M and we owed US$2.1B external debt at that time...we have a US$22B economy today and our debt is US$1.8B. It's lower, external debt is lower than the debt in the 90s when our economy was 60 odd times smaller...”

Consequently, the VP said, “In spite of our borrowing over this period, our stock of debt to the external world is less than in 1990 when APNU was in office.”

Meanwhile, he said the US$2.7B domestic debt was incurred due to the issuance of Treasury Bills, among

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

others.

On Monday, the senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh presented this year's Budget to the National Assembly.

The fiscal plan is set at

CDB silent on reports regarding senior officials sent on leave

The Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has acknowledged “an ongoing administrative process” involving its president, Dr Hyginus ‘Gene’ Leon, but remained silent on reports that senior officials of the region’s premier financial institution had been sent on administrative leave.

Earlier, the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) had reported that it was reliably informed that senior officials of the CDB had been sent on administrative leave, but that its sources could not provide further details at this time.

However in a terse one paragraph statement late on Wednesday night, the bank said “Caribbean Development Bank acknowledges an ongoing administrative process involving the President.

The Bank will not be making any further comments on this internal matter at this time”.

The statement followed the earlier announcement by the bank Wednesday that it had postponed to next month, its annual news conference where it was expected to outline recommendations on how it intended to harness regional and international alliances to broker new partnerships for holistic and inclusive development.

The news conference was originally scheduled for

Tuesday next week, but the one paragraph statement announcing the postponement to February 20, gave no reason.

“The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) will now be holding its 2024 A n n u a l N e w s C o n f e r e n c e o n Tues day, F ebruary 20, 2024. Subsequent updates will be shared directly and published via Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn,” the statement said.

But w hen as ked by CM C for the reas ons for the pos tponement, the CDB responded s a y i n g “ t h e B a n k ’s teams needed more time”.

When it announced the scheduled news conference earlier this month, the CDB said that it would be held under the theme “Facilitating Resilient Prosperity” at its headquarters in Wildey, on the outskirts of the capital. It said the participants would have been Leon, the Vice President Finances and Corporate Services, Gregory N. Hill, the director of the Projects Department, Mrs. Therese Turner Jones and the director of the Economic Department, Ian Durant.

The statement had informed local and regional journalists that they could expect an overview of C D B ’s s t r a t e g i e s f o r resource mobilisation, a

review of 2023 regional economic performance and the forecast for 2024 as well as results of the CDBsupported projects implemented in 2023. It said that a preview of planned projects, rationale and expected outcomes for 2024 would have also been made during the news conference.

Leon is the sixth president of the regional development finance institution.

He was elected at a special meeting of the CDB Board of Governors held on January 19, 2021 for a fiveyear term, and assumed office on May 4, 2021.

The highly regarded St. Lucian-born economist heads a team of more than 2 0 0 e m p l o y e e s headquartered in Bridgetown, and came to the assignment with 35 years of experience in economics, financial policy development and executive management, more than 20 of which were spent working with the Wa s h i n g t o n - b a s e d International Monetary Fund (IMF).

He had succeeded the Jamaican-born Dr. Warren Smith who retired in 2021 after serving as president for 10 years.

Last week, Leon was in Guyana holding talks with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) chairman, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali and CARICOM Secretary General Dr Carla Barnett.

$1.146 Trillion and is themed, “Staying the Course: Building Prosperity for All.” Notably, this year's budget represents a 46.6 percent increase over 2023's budget which was $789.1B.

To m e e t t h i s astronomical spending plan, Minister Singh revealed that government will be approaching the National Assembly for an increase in the domestic and external debt ceilings.

He said this will provide the flexibility needed to optimise on the financing mix while at the same time safeguarding debt sustainability.

The Minister also revealed that in 2023, the country plunged 23% deeper in debt, now owing US$4.5 billion. He said, “At the end of 2023, total Public and Publicly Guaranteed (PPG) debt stood at US$4,508.8 million, up 23.4 percent from the position at the end of 2022, on account of new external and domestic borrowing.”

At the end of 2022, the

country's debt stood at US$3,654.9 million.

According to the Minister, Guyana's external debt amounted to US$1,775.5 million at the end of 2023, up 13 percent from the position at the end of 2022.

Meanwhile, domestic debt reached US$2,733.4 million at the end of 2023, up from the US$2,083 million at the end of 2022. This increase was attributed to the Government's issuance of new Treasury Bills.

Dr. Singh highlighted that the country's debt service also increased in 2023. Some US$177.3 million in revenue went towards debt service last year, up from US$150.2 million in 2022.

This increase was driven by both domestic and external debt service payments.

175 road deaths recorded last year G

uyana recorded a 7 6 . 8 % increase in road fatalities in 2023, with the toll rising from 99 in 2022 to a staggering 175.

The surge has prompted urgent action from the Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, who is calling on citizens to exercise caution and prioritise safety on the roadways.

During his press conference on Wednesday, Minister Benn said, “We have had the situation with traffic and we have had an alarming increase in road traffic deaths.”

Addressing the rise in fatal accidents, the minister stated that the primary contributing factor identified was speeding, with a 110% increase in fatalities, rising from 61 in 2022 to 128 last year.

Minister Benn announced that the government is set to introduce e-ticketing for traffic violations to curb dangerous driving behaviours. “We have been giving and we have to give out again helmets to motorcyclist.

We have gotten just now a large number of clamps and we have to deal with people who are speeding,” Benn asserted.

He continued, “We want people to modify their behaviour and do what they can to protect themselves and protect others. We want

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn

to be able to point out and have people point out persons (like) minibus operators, taxi-drivers, and others who are doing unsafe things on the road.”

T h e m i n i s t e r acknowledged the large movement of construction materials on our roadway due to the development taking place in the country.

“We are on the path still in making up the gap in terms of infrastructure for our roadways but people are required to leave early and arrive on time without the stress and worry of being involved in an accident,” Benn added.

A detailed analysis of the data reveals several troubling trends.

Male drivers bore the brunt of the increase, experiencing a 79.2% rise in fatalities, while female fatalities increased by 64.7%. The age group most affected was 25-42 years old, comprising 43.4% of all fatalities. Additionally, fatal accidents involving motorcyclists saw a dramatic 166.7% increase.

In an effort to address the rising road safety concerns, comprehensive driver education and training programmes will be implemented.

PAGE 22

Friday January 19, 2024

Kaieteur News

Mexico, Chile refer Israel-Hamas conflict to court over possible crimes

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VACANCY

FOR RENT

Female Bartender, Cook & Domestic and male Workers needed to work in Interior.

18 years & older. Call: 6609093/ 661-5992.

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Email: techserigy@ yahoo.com or Call: 615-9132.

Place to rent for business at Vreed-en-Hoop junction.

Suitable for church, lessons, storage bond, office & other.

Call: 603-6400.

Driver, Salesman, male & female factory Workers and plastic extruder Operator.

Apply to RP'S Enterprise Area "K" Le Ressouvenir E.C.D. Call: 220-2818.

Domestic and Cook needed.

Call: 223-5273/74.

Qualified Welders, Mechanics and utility operators (excavator, bulldozer, ADT) wanted for mining operation.

Call: 688-6575.

Experienced male Cooks and dredge Crew wanted for mining operation. Call: 688-6575.

Customer Service Representative & Driver needed.

Apply in person with application & relevant documents @ Sandy's Funeral Home, Lodge Georgetown.

Call: 223-5354/ 227-7178.

Wanted! Male & Female workers preferably from WBD, for packaging pasta and chowmein. $4100 per day. Call: 611-7839.

Transportation service is seeking experienced Chauffeur with mini bus & hire car licence & also contract vehicles needed. Call: 6450025.

One Painter needed. Call: 615-9132.

Sales and Delivery Clerks needed. Apply at: Lens 136 Sheriff Street next to Buddys/Pizzahut. Call: 2272486/ 227-1511, Email: lensgy@outlook.com Warehouse Manager/Forklift Operator and Truck Driver (Part time or Full Time). Apply at Lens Call: 227-2486/ 227-1511, Email: lensgy@outlook.com

Maid needed to clean at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

Male Cleaner for Eccles. Call: 615-9132/ 645-8443.

Kitchen assistant, chef, Salesperson and housekeeper needed. Call: 659-5559.

Security Personnel with exmilitary experience. Call SAB Mining: 503-0359, 608-2443.

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Security Officers and Cleaners needed at Empag Inc. Must have secondary education and experience. Call: 664-3716/ 226-4364.

Receptionist and Hotel Attendant needed at Hick's Ville Hotel. Call: 231-0951/ 2310952 or Email: info@ vegeworld.net

Executive 3 bedroom house in Lamaha Gardens, fully furnished US$4300. Ideal for expats. Call: 622-2010.

Land development Hyundai R140 long reach excavator & 1.5 sack ransom cement mixer.

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Accounts & Bond Clerks, W/ Union CSR'S, Cashier, Sales Rep and Porters needed at Survival. Call: 609-2995.

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Vacancy exists for one truck Driver to work for a Construction Company. Contact: 656-0603/ 624-9505.

Female Cleaner for office.

Call: 645-8443.

FOR SALE House lots & commercial plot for sale available at Blankenburg W.C.D. Call: 652-0251/ 650-0402.

John Deere 7300 combine, Lavarda 132 combine, 11090 fiat tractor & 290 Massey tractor. Call: 644-9512.

Tundra for sale, GKK5670.

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Vacancy exist for water delivery Drivers at Non Pareil.

Preferably from ECD. Call: 692-6768/ 676-1363.

MEXICO CITY, (Reuters) – Mexico and Chile expressed “growing worry” today over escalating violence in the Palestinian territory of Gaza after several months of war between Israel and Hamas in a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC) over possible

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Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.

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constitute crimes under the ICC’s jurisdiction.” Chile’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Mexico added it was closely following the ICC case presented last week in which South Africa accused Israel of carrying out genocide in Gaza and demanded that the court order an emergency suspension of Israel’s military campaign. Mexico “trusts that these actions… can pave the way for an immediate ceasefire and contribute to moving toward lasting peace in the region based on a solution of two states which coexist within secure and internationally recognized borders.”

Man accused of killing...

From page 11 Dover’s mouth open as her blood quickly started to cover her face. Upon seeing this, she said to Shaquan, “Let’s take her to the hospital” but the boyfriend refused as he retorted, “No, she dead already.” Alleyne then accompanied Dover’s relative to his father and told him of what he had done.

After doing their collective deliberation about what to do with the body, they decided that it was best to bury her in the backyard unknown to other parties.

Armed with a spade, Kaieteur News understands that the suspects dug a shallow hole after which Dover’s body was rolled into it and covered up. Alleyne then hid the gun.

At the time, Dover’s relative related that Alleyne instilled fear in her and told her

that they both would be jailed if she disclosed what occurred to any family member, or the police. But the teenager who perhaps, could not deal with the weight of the terror she felt, confessed to the police about what had occurred.

In the wee hours of April, 30, 2021, the teen led ranks to the Canvas City home where they dug up the area that Dover was buried. By the time the lawmen had reached four feet, they stumbled upon her partly decomposed body.

News of the woman’s death sent shock waves throughout Linden as hundreds of persons converged at the Canvas City residence, where the body was found.

A post-mortem examination that was subsequently conducted on her remains revealed that she died from a single gunshot wound to the head.

Billions set aside to build...

PEN PAL An Afro- Guyanese male is interested in a single middle age woman. Call/ text: 6622018.

crimes.Since the early October surprise attack by Hamas militants that killed over 1,000 Israelis, wide-spread destruction in the densely-packed Gaza strip has led to increasing international alarm and scrutiny over the death of thousands of civilians, especially children.

In a statement, Mexico’s foreign ministry argued that the ICC is the proper forum to establish potential criminal responsibility, “whether committed by agents of the occupying power or the occupied power.”

The statement cited “numerous reports from the United Nations that detail many incidents that could

First Aid/ CPR/ AED & Home Nursing courses will commence in January 2024. Call St.John Association: 2259082.

From page 19 community services at $6.4 billion in 2023, while $10 billion is budgeted in 2024. He noted that as part of our ongoing effort to strengthen our administrative capacity, training in financial management and accountability is continuously being held with all LDOs. “Cognisant that effective

local governance forms a main pillar of a strong democracy, this Government will continue to provide support to all municipalities and NDCs, including institutional assistance to foster accountability and transparency and advance infrastructure development and enhancement across communities,” Dr. Singh added.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

Bids open for security services for GMC

D

uring the opening of bids on Thursday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office, it was revealed the Guyana

Marketing Corporation (GMC) is seeking the procurement of security services.The project is divided into six lots and a total of nine security firms have submitted bids.

Below are the companies and their bids: Ministry of Education Provision of Creative and Authentic Costume Design for the Ministry of Education’s Mashramani Band, 2024.

Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) Procurement of Security Services Lot 1 to 6.

PAGE 23

Jagdeo justifies Govt. withholding Linden nurses pay Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has justified the Government’s right to appeal a High Court order which declared that deductions made from the salary of nurses at Linden, who were part of a strike action back in 2021 were unlawful.

At his press conference o n T h u r s d a y, t h e V P explained that the appeal is due to the fact that the issue at hand is a disciplinary action meted out by the Ministry of Labour.

Jagdeo explained, “During the COVID period a number of nurses were disciplined for various offences.

The disciplinary measure could take several forms, termination, and suspension or as the Labour Ministry advise deductions.

The [Ministry] lawfully choose that route of deductions when they nurse would be absent and the court ruled in favour of the nurses.”

He continued, “However, there is an industrial principle at stake here, and if we allow them to succeed, then the Ministry would not be able to utilize this tool, which is often used in the collective bargaining process to discipline staff…

There a bigger issue at stake

for industrial action and that is why the appeal is necessary,” A High Court ruling last November declared that deductions made from the salary of nurses at Linden, who were part of a strike action back in 2021 were unlawful.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has tried, but was unsuccessful in its attempt to enforce the court order, that the nurses be repaid.

According to a press release dated January 11th, 2024 from the Union which represents the nurses, it wrote the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Health the day before, advising of the order made by the court on November 2nd last for the repayments to have been made no later than December 31st, 2023.

The Union had by then already written a previous letter to the PS dated December 28th, 2023, urging compliance.

The GPSU said that in response to its latest letter, however, the PS sought to advice that the Attorney General (AG) had filed a notice of appeal and was also in the process of filing a notice of application for a stay of proceedings.

Against this background, the PS, the Union said, sought to further advice that based on instructions coming from the Chambers of the Attorney General, no repayments would be forthcoming at this time.

According to a copy of the letter signed by PS Malcom Watkins which was seen by this newspaper, it advises, “I wish to inform you that I am aware of the order of the court, however, I

was advised, and I verily believe that the Attorney General of Guyana has filed a notice of appeal and is preparing to file a notice of application for stay of proceedings.”

“In this regard, I await further instructions on the matter,” the letter went on to state; before ending with, “should you have any questions/queries, please direct same to the Attorney General.”

Back in March of 2021, nurses at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) were engaged in protest action, as they called for the removal of Chief Executive Officer, Rudolph Small.

Small had made disparaging statements about nurses when he stated that they (the nurses) would clock in at the LHC and then leave for extra-marital rendezvous.

2701 fires recorded last year …182.5% increase in comparison to 2022 – Home Affairs Ministry stats.

There has been an alarming increase in fires in 2023, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn said o n We d n e s d a y a t h i s ministry’s end-of-year press conference.

Comparing last year’s figures to 2022, the total number of fires increased by 182.5%, with 2701 fires in 2023 compared to 952 in 2022. This increase was reflected in both private buildings and businesses.

Minister Benn at his press conference said, “Every home should have a smoke alarm.” He also encouraged citizens to rewire their homes every 50 years. “Villagers use to pick up buckets for bucket brigade now they’re picking up phones,” Benn added.

According to the minister, there has been an increase in the malicious setting of fires.

Private structures saw a 44.1% increase in fires, with 429 buildings affected in 2023 compared to 298 in the

previous year. The damage varied, showcasing a 49% rise in buildings that were completely destroyed, a 64% increase in severely damaged structures, and a 36.1% uptick in slightly damaged buildings.

The number of business buildings involved in fires also saw a significant increase, rising by 177.1% in 2023.

There were 130 business buildings affected in 2023, compared to 47 in 2022.

Similar to private buildings, the extent of damage varied, with completely destroyed businesses increasing by 212%, severely damaged businesses increasing by 160%, and slightly damaged businesses increasing by 156%.

In 2022, there were 35 government properties involved in fires. However, in 2023, this number decreased to 21, representing a 66.6% decline. This indicates a reduction in the number of government buildings affected by fires last year.

A 2023 house fire

Moreover, Minister Benn said that the capacity of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) will further be expanded through several initiatives this year. He noted that training for volunteer fire brigades will be expanded to other areas, as he noted that the training has already been completed in Lethem, Mahdia, and Mabaruma.

“In the new budget we are looking at bringing in units and expanding the volunteer fire service,” the minister emphasised during his ministry’s year-end

review. The minister also stated that new fire stations will be constructed at Parika and Vreed-en-Hoop in Region Three, and another location close to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). Moreover, Benn pointed out that the fire trucks do not always arrive w i t h o u t w a t e r, a s h e responded to criticisms. “ T h e r e ’s a l i m i t e d amount of water which they can carry in the trucks – 300/400 gallons at a time.

Those will go pretty quickly,” the home affairs minister said.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

Friday January 19, 2024

WEST INDIES WOMEN’S QUARTET CONFIRM...

From page 31 Women’s team. She played 100 ODIs taking 82 wickets and 96 T20Is taking 51wickets. Selman was also a member of the 2016 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup winning squad.

In a heartfelt statement, Shakera Selman said: “This marks my final bow after 18 incredible years.

I am proud of playing with and against legends, and lucky to have dismissed a few.

My aim was always to inspire and assist others in their dreams.

I owe immense gratitude to God, my supportive family and friends, and to CWI, my teammates, and the medical and management teams for their unwavering guidance.

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Anisa Mohammed (CWI/Getty Images)

To the fans, your support has been my motivation.

As I transition to the next phase of my career, I look forward to continuing to share my passion for the game in new ways.”

The Knight twins Kycia

and Kyshona made their debuts for West Indies Women in 2011 and 2013 respectively.

Kycia a left-handed wicketkeeper/batter holds the record for the most dismissals in Women’s T20I innings with 5, as well as the most

Friday January 19, 2024 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today you might be in the public eye along with some close friends and perhaps a love partner. You may be giving a speech, leading a discussion group.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Social contact with new and exciting people, Libra, perhaps at a neighborhood gathering, could bring intriguing information your way. You could learn about new fields that interest you.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Whether or not you're artistic, Taurus, inspiration for music, painting, writing, or other creative projects could come to you thick and fast today.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Work might take up a lot of your time today, Scorpio, perhaps job related, perhaps chores around the house.

Friends or family may join you, and their conversation could help relieve some of the tedium. .

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Much of your day is likely to be spent in the company of family, close friends, and a current or potential love partner, Sagittarius.

Business partners could be involved.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A group activity could involve a number of people, including some close friends, who share your intellectual, philosophical, or spiritual interests.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today you might be in the public eye along with some close friends and perhaps a love partner. You may be giving a speech, leading a discussion group, or be the center of attention at a party.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The Today you might decide to host a social event in your home, perhaps for friends and colleagues with whom you share intellectual, philosophical.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A new and exciting person, possibly someone from a distant state or foreign country, could come into your life today. You could spend hours talking.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A large gathering, perhaps a festival of some kind, could take place in your neighborhood today, Aquarius. You could choose to attend with some close friends and your romantic interest.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Some unusual dreams could have unexpected side effects, Virgo. They could spark new ideas for creative projects or possible innovative concepts to advance your career or social life.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Discussions with friends or colleagues about possible future business enterprises could find you taking notes, Pisces. Your natural meticulousness should serve you well.

stumpings in an innings of 4 and tied for most catches in an innings also with 4.

She played 87 Odis, amassing 1327 runs and played 70 T20Is, scoring 801 runs.

Kyshona played 51 ODIs, scoring 851 runs and played 55 T20Is, scoring 546 runs.

In their announcement, the Knights said: “As this marks the end of an enjoyable and amazing journey, we would like to take this time to thank our family, friends, teammates & supporters for the continued love and support throughout the years.

None of this would’ve been possible without the support and love from you guys and for that we are forever grateful.

Lastly, thank you to CWI for the opportunities granted and memories that will be forever cherished”.

CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe paid tribute to the four cricketers: “Anisa, Shakera, Kycia and Kyshona have had all made significant individual impacts on women’s cricket the West Indies and the world.

Their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship have not only elevated our team but also captivated cricket fans worldwide.

Their legacies, as members of the title-winning ICC Women’s T20 World Cup squad of 2016 and individual milestones, will continue to influence and guide future generations to aspire to wear the Maroon.”

Mohammed, Selman, Kycia and Kyshona Knight were all part of the West Indies Women victorious ICC Women’s T20 World Cup winning squad of 2016 in India.

The Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GTA) lauds the 2024 sport budget The Guyana Lawn Tennis Association welcomes the unprecedented allocation of $4.6B in the 2024 budget to the sport sector. In recent years the executive of the GTA has established a close working relationship and camaraderie with the National Sports Commission and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. Our frequent interactions have resulted in needs assessment of the tennis fraternity which resulted in the fulfillment of many commitments to our sport. These commitments include but are not limited to; 1. Rehabilitation of the National Racquet Center tennis courts with the installation of lights and new bleachers.

2. Completion of the National Gymnasium tennis court with the installation of lights and bleachers.

3. Support for players to compete at the local and international levels. 4. Support

for coaches to be certified and accredited by the International Tennis Federation.

5. Support for the National Tennis Academy.

As a result of the abovementioned positions, our players and coaches can compete within the region and enhance their game strategies, fitness levels, and coaching knowledge to align with the goals and objectives of the GTA. In light of the foregoing, the GTA looks forward to continued synergies with the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and by extension, the Government of Guyana. Our partnerships thus far have allowed our players, coaches, and officials to grow in their respective areas of expertise and most importantly, alleviated significant financial burdens from the parents of our players.

Australia beat Windies by 10wkts

Australia took a 1-0 series lead against the West Indies after they won the first Test by 10 wickets.

West Indies were all out for 120 as Josh Hazlewood ripped

through their batting with 5 for 35. McKenzie with 26, Greaves 24, Da Silva 18, Alzari Joseph 16 and Shamar Joseph 15 offered resistance.

Full details tomorrow.

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 19, 2024

A record-breaking tie-break headlines dramatic day at the Australian Open CNN - The Australian Open women’s draw served up some dramatic moments yesterday, including a record-breaking tie-break that will go down in grand slam history.

Anna Blinkova eventually beat Elena Rybakina after a mammoth effort in the deciding set, with the last-set tie-break consisting of 42 points – the longest in a singles match in g r a n d s l a m h i s t o r y, according to the Australian Open. The Russian produced some brilliant tennis to save six match points in the nervewracking finale, before eventually converting her

10th match point. “There were moments I enjoyed and other moments, it was super tough. I just tried to today focus on every point. I had so many match points,” Blinkova said after winning 6-4 4-6 7-6(22-20).

“I tried to be aggressive at these moments, but my hands were shaking and my legs too.

“I tried to be calm as hard as I could. Super happy to win in the end.”

Fans were captivated by the breathtaking action on court which lasted two hours and 46 minutes – the tiebreak itself lasting 30 minutes. At one point, the

match umpire started laughing as the players leveled the scores at 19-19.

Blinkova eventually held her nerve and fell to the court in celebration after winning match point.

“It’s the best day of my life so far,” she said.

It was yet another major upset in the women’s draw with world No. 3 Rybakina touted as one of the favorites for this year’s title.

Elsewhere yesterday, world No. 1 Iga Œwi¹tek survived a late scare to beat US star Danielle Collins in the Australian Open second round yesterday. Œwi¹tek found herself two breaks of

service down in the deciding set but dug deep to recover in style, eventually winning 6-4 3-6 6-4.

Asked by reporters how she kept her focus under such pressure, the four-time grand slam singles champion credited an unlikely source of inspiration.

“I feel like, when I’m really well-focused, I am kind of repeating the same song throughout the whole match,” she said, not wanting to reveal the exact track.

“It gives me energy, and I can kind of narrow my focus just to that song that I keep hearing and the technical

US star Danielle Collins told reporters this season would be her last on tour.

(Martin Keep/AFP/Getty Images) stuff that I want to think about.

“I don’t like when my brain is kind of picking up the songs from the changeovers because every time is a different one. I want to keep hearing The Rolling Stones.”

Collins announces pending retirement Œwi¹tek Ö”LÖ”s comeback meant there was no satisfaction for Collins who had produced some scintillating tennis in what will be her last game at an Australian Open.

The 30-year-old revealed after the match that this will be her last year on tour, with the American keen to travel less and eager to raise a family.

“I have other things that I’d kind of like to accomplish in my life outside of tennis and would like to be able to kind of, you know, be able to have the time to be able to do that.

Obviously, having kids is a big priority for me,” she told reporters after racing off Rod Laver Arena on Thursday.

Collins had found herself 4-1 up in the deciding set against Œwi¹tek, but the 2022 Australian Open finalist couldn’t fend off her opponent’s late surge.

“Honestly, I was in the airport already,” Œwi¹tek added.

“I wanted to fight until the end. I knew that she played just perfectly, but it would be hard for anybody to keep that level. I wanted to be ready when more mistakes were going to come from the other side.

“I just wanted to push then, and I did that at the end.

I’m really proud of myself because it wasn’t easy.” Œwi¹tek will now play Linda Noskova in the third round at Melbourne Park.

Pegula stunned Elsewhere in the women’s draw, American Jessica Pegula crashed out of the Australian Open after a straight sets – 6-4 6-2 – loss to France’s Clara Burel.

It was Burel’s first win over a top-10 player and arguably the biggest upset in the women’s draw so far at this year’s tournament.

It took just 70 minutes for world No. 5 to slip to defeat after barely getting a footing in the match.

“I think I played a very solid performance today,” Burel said after her victory.

“I was really focused.

Yeah, I didn’t let her come into this match. Very solid, and I’m really happy about this match today.”

Iga Œwi¹tek held her nerve to produce a brilliant comeback in the second round. (Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images)

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

Archery Guyana Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course successfully shoots off at the NRC The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and Archery Guyana (AG) shot off their Olympic Solidarity Archery Coaching Course which commenced successfully at the National Racquet Center, Woolford Avenue.

International World Archery Coach Trainer, Ms. L u d y s C a r i n a Te j a d a , arrived in Guyana for the much-anticipated five-day Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course which began on Wednesday.

At the Opening Ceremony, President of (AG) and GOA executive, Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon declared the session open.

She charged the 21 participants to complete the course successfully and to return to their various regions and schools to take the sport forward.

Some of the schools represented are Kawata Primary Top, Santa Rosa Secondary, Sand Creek S e c o n d a r y, A i s h a l t o n Secondary, Nappi Primary

Top, Katoka Primary Top, Queen’s College, Qayyim Academy, ISA Islamic School, Saraswati Vidya Niketan, SVN School and School of the Nations.

Also delivering remarks was former President of Archery Guyana and current National Judge and Competitions Committee Chair, Mr. Ryan McKinnon who gave participants an overview as to the governing body for Archery in Guyana, the background and wished participants well.

Untouchable, Hibernia Strikers claim wins in ESCL T20, Over-40 competition Untouchable and Hibernia Strikers registered comfortable wins last Sunday in the continuation of the Essequibo Softball Cricket League (ESCL) T20, Over-40 roundrobin competition.

And in the two other fixtures, Caribbean Cricket Club and Essequibo Legends claimed walk-overs from Invaders Masters and Devonshire Castle Sports Club respectively. At Queenstown Community Centre ground, Untouchable defeated Queenstown Tigers by seven wickets. Tigers only mustered a meagre 69 all out off 14.1 overs while Untouchable replied with 70-3 in the 9th over with extras being the top-score of 24. And at Hibernia facility, Hibernia Strikes whipped Reliance Sports Club by a comprehensive 10-wicket margin.

Reliance Sports Club batted first and made an inadequate 125 all out in the 17th over while the hosts surpassed the target with a whopping 13 overs to spare.

Prem Persaud made 24 for Reliance Sports Club as D. Wallace and R.Latchman grabbed 3-27 and 2-18 respectively, delivering for the winner.

Meanwhile, the two semi-finals are slated for this Sunday at Reliance Sports ground

Patrick Rooplall

also on the Essequibo Coast, Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

At 10 am, Hibernia Strikers will tackle Invaders Masters and then from 1 pm, Caribbean Cricket Club coming up against Essequibo Legends.

The championship game is billed for the following Sunday at the same venue. Some high-profile softball players are expected to feature on Sunday are: Patrick Rooplall, who is a pugnacious opening batsman with two double-centuries in previous competitions, another seasoned player Ramesh Narine, Latchmikant Narine, Ravi Beharry, Roy Gonsalves, Eqwaas Baksh among others.

Reifer cleared to resume bowling slower balls, cutters

C

r i c k e t We s t Indies (CWI) on T h u r s d a y announced that Barbadian all-rounder Raymon Reifer has been cleared to resume bowling his slower balls and cutters after remedial footage of his action was sent to and cleared by Loughborough University.

Reifer, who was a part of the Leon Johnson 4-Day super team, dominated Regional cricket for more than a handful of seasons, was previously suspended from bowling those specific

Raymon Reifer (Getty Images) deliveries during the 2023 edition of the CG United Super 50 Cup.

The West Indies allrounder was adjudged by the same body to be using an illegal action following an initial report from the Barbados Pride match a g a i n s t t h e Wi n d w a r d Islands Volcanoes on 25 October 2023.

The left-arm swing bowler was also named in the Barbados Pride squad for the first three matches of the West Indies Championship, which is due to begin in early February and run until late April.

PAGE 27

Participants involved in the activities during the ongoing course.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 28

Friday January 19, 2024

GFF Elite League Season Six set to kick off February 25 - 10 clubs to battle it out for supremacy

W

ith football enthusiasts eager to witness the campaigns of newly promoted clubs Monedderlust and Slingerz, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde has confirmed that the Elite League Season Six will kick off on Sunday, February 25 at the National Training Centre (NTC) in Providence.

Gearing up for an actionpacked Season Six, the GFF has held comprehensive discussions with representatives from all ten men’s Elite Clubs on proposed fixtures and potential amendments to the rules governing Season Six. President Forde noted that, “As anticipation mounts for the upcoming season, the collaborative efforts between the GFF and these prominent clubs underscore our commitment to ensuring all participating clubs are knowledgeable of the rules and regulations and contribute to the execution of the tournament by sharing their concerns and ideas.”

Season Six will feature defending champions Guyana Defence Force, Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force, Fruta Conquerors, Den Amstel, Buxton United, Ann’s Grove United, Santos, Monedderlust and Slingerz.

Meanwhile Slingerz and Monedderlust FC have earned their promotion earlier this month through the GFF Elite League Promotion Playoff. Similar to Season Five, the champions of the upcoming season will be awarded a prize of $2,000,000, while second, third, and fourthplace finishers will also receive respective prizes of $1,200,000, $800,000, and $500,000.

In preparation for the tournament, each participating team will receive a participation grant of $500,000 prior to the t o u r n a m e n t ’ s commencement.

GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph further shared that Club administrators will participate in several

workshop focused on the Club Licensing requirements for participation in the league, media management and interaction, match day management, Laws of the game and technical related matters.

This initiative is designed to guarantee the seamless execution of matches during the upcoming season.

“We have built up our capacity over the past months and are prepared to implement measures to enhance the operations of the League.

The series of workshops are designed to bring alignment to best practices in the region including the automation of the competition management systems and match-day structures.

This is another step t o w a r d s t h e professionalising of the League and its operations.

Season six is going to be massive. The partnership w i t h F I FA + a n d t h e

availability of a quality surface at the National Training Centre complete with international standard lighting will surely enhance the quality of the experience for our top competition. I am super excited to experience the product and its potential.”

However, Season Six will span 6 months and 90 games at venues across the coastland. Match days,

predominantly featuring double-headers, will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Clubs will engage in a two-round format with the club accumulating the most points crowned as the champions, securing an automatic qualifying spot at the CONCACAF/Caribbean Shield Championships.

Under Forde’s leadership, there have been

substantial investments in the advancement of club football throughout Guyana.

The GFF Elite League, recognised as the apex of senior men’s competition in the nation, not only represents a prestigious stage for athletes but also serves as a critical pathway for talent scouting by the national team, as well as by regional and international clubs.

Guyana Golf Association welcomes Budget 2024 With Guyana’s economy on the rise, it is only natural and expected that our government expenditure should also increase and the government must be commended for the bold increase especially in key areas such as education, sport, infrastructure and social services.

“We have turned the corner and are now expected to perform and deliver standards that are much higher and as a result, will require a larger national budget,” said GGA President Aleem Hussain.

“If enough isn’t spent, we cannot give our people the

resources and means necessary to excel so we commend the government for taking on the challenge head on.”

“Minister of Sports Honourable Charles Ramson is in the unenviable position of having to develop and support every sport in the country and somehow manages to stretch his budget to accomplish an immense task but sport associations can and must help.”

Hussain suggested that sport associations should be using contributions from the Ministry of Sport to build repeat revenue streams rather than simply spend on

expenses so that they can become less dependent in the years ahead.

This will allow the Ministry to allocate greater support to non-traditional sports and widen the range of sport disciplines.

Wi t h g r e a t e r international focus on Guyana due to its oil and gas industry, the emphasis must shift to creating and producing world class events which, when broadcasted worldwide, will create both revenue and the opportunity to s h o w c a s e G u y a n a ’s tourism, business and investment potential at a minimal cost.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

PAGE 29

West Indies Academy to debut and Combined Campuses and Colleges back for 2024 West Indies Championships SportsMax - Cricket West Indies (CWI) yesterday announced the 2024 West Indies Championship schedule, confirming the expansion in the number of participating teams and rounds for the premier four (4)-Day competition.

After a winning performance in the HeadleyWeekes tournament in 2023, the West Indies Academy are all set to make their debut in the West Indies First-Class season, along with the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) who are making a return, re-joining the tournament after a few years’ absence.

The 2024 West Indies Championship is set to begin in February, with the opening three rounds spanning from 7 to 24 February. In the first block of games, matches will take place in two Host Countries: St. Kitts and Nevis at two venues, Warner Park and the Conaree Cricket Centre, and in Jamaica, at three venues, Sabina Park, Kensington Cricket Club, and Chedwin Park. The second block of matches resume on 13 March, with the fourth and fifth rounds scheduled to be held in Trinidad and Tobago at the Queen’s Park Oval, the Diego Martin Sports Complex and the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground at UWI Spec, and in Antigua and Barbuda at the Coolidge Cricket Ground. The tournament will then restart after Easter with the final two rounds from 10 to 20 April with matches in Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

The competing eight regional teams fighting for the Headley Weekes Trophy over seven (7) rounds of matches are – defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles, Barbados Pride, Combined Campuses and Colleges, Jamaica Scorpions, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, West Indies Academy and Windward Islands Volcanoes.

The 2024 West Indies Championship will have a significant increase in prize money with the winning team receiving US$250,000, while second-placed team will receive US$100,000.

Johnny Grave, CWI Chief Executive Officer said: “We are pleased to announce the schedule for the upcoming West Indies

West Indies Academy to debut and Combined Campuses and Colleges back for 2024 West Indies Championships.

Championship and welcome two new teams and an expansion in the number of matches. With significant upgrades taking place at all the host venues for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June and additional improvements being made to the National Stadium in Grenada and Windsor Park in Dominica, we are using nine venues across Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda and Trinidad & Tobago. The eight teams will be fighting hard for the Headley Weekes Trophy and the new prize money of US$250,000 available to the winning team. All the games will be shown live on our YouTube channel, with live ball-by-ball scores on our website so that fans around the region and world can watch and follow the competition unfold over the next three months.”

T h e We s t I n d i e s Championship will run from 7 February to 20 April. Fans can stream all the matches live on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel and access live ball-by-ball scoring here in the match centre.

TOURNAMENT S C H E D U L E West Indies Championship 2 0 2 4 7 to 10 February: Jamaica Scorpions vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC vs Barbados Pride Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs West Indies

Academy - Warner Park, St. Kitts Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force - Conaree Cricket Centre, St. Kitts 14 to 17 February: Jamaica Scorpions vs CCC - Sabina Park, Jamaica Barbados Pride vs Windward Islands Volcanoes Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Warner Park, St. Kitts Trinidad &Tobago Red Force vs West IndiesAcademy Conaree Cricket Centre, St. Kitts 21 to 24 February: Jamaica Scorpions vs Barbados Pride - Sabina Park, Jamaica Wi n d w a r d I s l a n d s Volcanoes vs CCC - Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Trinidad &Tobago Red Force - Warner Park, St. Kitts West Indies Academy vs Guyana Harpy Eagles Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG),Antigua 13 to 16 March: Trinidad &Tobago Red Force vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad CCC vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes - Diego Martin Regional Complex, Trinidad Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Barbados Pride - Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground at UWI Spec (UWI SPEC), Trinidad West Indies Academy vs Jamaica Scorpions - CCG, Antigua 20 March to 23 March: Trinidad &Tobago Red

Force vs Barbados Pride Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Jamaica

Scorpions - Diego Martin Regional Complex, Trinidad Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Windward Islands

Volcanoes - UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy vs CCC - CCG, Antigua 10 to 13 April: Jamaica Scorpions vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC vs Trinidad &Tobago Red Force Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Hurricanes vs Barbados Pride - UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy vs Windward Islands Volcanoes CCG, Antigua 17 to 20 April: Jamaica Scorpions vs Trinidad &Tobago Red Force Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy vs Barbados Pride - CCG, Antigua

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 19, 2024

Shamar Joseph completes five-wicket haul on debut but Windies facing inevitable defeat after day two of Adelaide Test Josh Hazlewood struck with his first ball in the second dig. (Getty Images)

Travis Head hit 119 off just 134 balls.

(CA/Cricket Australia/Getty Images) SportsMax - In a day that saw the West Indies cricket team oscillate between hope and despair, Shamar Joseph emerged as a shining light, claiming a memorable fivewicket haul on his Test debut. However, despite his heroic efforts, the West Indies found themselves in dire straits at the end of the day, facing defeat against Australia.

Resuming from their overnight score of 59-2, Australia stumbled to 129-5, with Shamar Joseph

dismissing key batsmen Cameron Green for 14 and fellow debutant Justin Greaves claiming the wicket of Usman Khawaja for 45. At lunch, the Australians were precariously placed at 144-5.

However, Travis Head, unbeaten on 41 at the lunch break, spearheaded a counterattack, scoring an impressive 119 and leading Australia to a total of 283 for a lead of 95 runs.

Josh Hazelwood’s fourwicket burst further compounded the West

Indies’ woes, leaving them reeling at 73-6 by the end of the day, trailing Australia by 22 runs.

Shamar Joseph’s debut was nothing short of remarkable, finishing with figures of 5-94, supported by Greaves (2-36) and veteran Kemar Roach (2-48). The Guyanese fast bowler’s efforts were acknowledged as he claimed his fifth wicket by dismissing Nathan Lyon for 24.

Despite Joseph’s heroics, the West Indies’ batting

order collapsed under the relentless assault of Josh Hazelwood, who ended the day with figures of 4-18. The top four West Indies batsmen fell quickly, with Hazelwood taking three wickets before conceding a single run.

Captain Kraigg Brathwaite (1), Tagenarine Chanderpaul (0), Alick Athanaze (0), and Kavem Hodge (3) all succumbed to H a z e l w o o d ’s s k i l l f u l bowling, leaving the West Indies in a precarious position at 19-4. Kirk

McKenzie provided some resistance with a brisk 26, but his dismissal further dented the West Indies’ hopes.

Justin Greaves and Joshua da Silva attempted to stabilize the innings, forging a 33-run partnership, but Greaves fell to Nathan Lyon on the last ball of the day with the Caribbean men still needing 22 runs to avoid forcing Australia to bat again.

While the result seemed destined to favor Australia,

the day’s play underscored the exceptional performance of Shamar Joseph on his Test debut. His resilience and skill had not gone unnoticed, earning him a standing ovation from the crowd.

Despite the challenging situation, Joseph’s debut remained a beacon of hope for the West Indies.

Scores: West Indies 188 and 73 for 6 (McKenzie 26, Hazlewood 4-18, Lyon 1-4) trail Australia 283 (Head 119, Khawaja 45, S Joseph 5-94) by 22 runs.

Coley holding out hope for positive Emma Raducanu out of Australian Open after suffering with result in first Test but admits apparent illness during defeat West Indies “too many wickets down” SportsMax - West Indies Test head coach Andre Coley believes his team are still in with a chance to earn a positive result from the first Test against Australia but admits they have lost too many wickets, so far, in the second innings at the Adelaide Oval.

After a spirited bowling display that left Australia with a manageable 95-run lead at the start of the West Indies second innings, the tourists were 73-6 off 22.5 overs at stumps, needing a further 22 to make Australia have to chase a total. “Obviously we had a good day on Tuesday and then a session and a half, maybe two sessions on Wednesday to claw our way back. Potentially two sessions a piece so even but, at the end of the day, we’re too many wickets down but, obviously, still in it,” Coley said in a press conference after the second day’s play.

“Generally, I thought out

intent was pretty good but our decision-making was questionable. I think the challenge has been the consistency of the bowlers.

Obviously, a wealth of experience in that Australian bowling attack so they’re able to stay patient,” he added. The wicket of Cameron Green at the start of the day for 14 brought dynamic left-hander Travis Head to the crease and he was able to overcome a shaky start and take the game away from the West Indians with 119 off 134 balls, his seventh Test hundred.

“Originally, the plan to Head was to pretty much go short at him up front and plan B was to come back into him and shut him down which we did most of the time,” he said. “By the time he was set, bowlers were jaded but I thought we stuck to the plans as well as we could and it worked well for the most part. The plan was simple,

bowl out Australia in less than 90 overs. We never had a target in mind within 90 overs because we believed that if we were disciplined, we would bowl them out for a manageable total that we could chase down,” Coley added. The star of the day, and the match so far for the West Indies, has been debutant Shamar Joseph.

After a swashbuckling 36 with the bat, Joseph starred with the ball to take his maiden Test five-wicket haul. “I believe his performances speak for themselves,” Coley said on Joseph.

“What you see is what you get. We took him to South Africa earlier and we knew he was inexperienced but we knew he had pace. He had a natural ability to work to a plan and be consistent and disciplined around it and he’s done that. He shown what he’s capable of in this match,” he added.

CNN - Emma Raducanu’s Australian Open campaign came to a valiant end yesterday as she fell to a three set – 4-6 6-4 46 – defeat to Wang Yafan.

The 21-year-old was making her comeback to grand slam tennis at Melbourne Park after injuries ravaged her 2023 season, and the Brit looked short of fitness against China’s Wang.

Raducanu had called for a medical assessment after going 2-0 down in the deciding set and had her blood pressure checked. While waiting for trainers to make their way onto the court, the tennis star sat slumped in her chair with a towel over her head.

Play resumed after a short treatment break, but the youngster was in quite some discomfort between points, looking as though she might be sick.

The apparent illness pushed Raducanu to finish rallies earlier and the 2021 US Open champion started digging deep to test her opponent with booming groundstrokes. Despite keeping the games competitive, Raducanu was unable to recover from a difficult start to the deciding set and Wang held on for an impressive second-round win.

The Chinese star, who also dealt with the windy conditions better than Raducanu at the

Wang Yafan progressed into the third round after the impressive win. (Julian Finney/Getty Images) start of the match, will face compatriot Zheng Qinwen in the third round.

For Raducanu, who has struggled physically since bursting onto the women’s tour, it’s yet another lesson to learn.

The Brit has bounced between coaches for a number of years but had reconnected with her childhood coach Nick Cavaday before the tournament as she bids to rekindle her grand slam winning form.

She showed glimpses of her undoubted talent again against Wang, but has yet to find a formula which allows her to sustain it.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 19, 2024

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West Indies Women’s quartet confirm international retirement ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – We s t I n d i e s Wo m e n ’s cricketers Anisa Mohammed, Shakera Selman, Kycia Knight and Kyshona Knight have confirmed their retirement from international cricket.

Mohammed and Selman both served as vice-captains during their 20- and 18-year careers respectively, all players recently communicated their decisions to Cricket West Indies (CWI).

Mohammed made her debut for the West Indies Women in 2003 at the age of 15 against Japan Women in an ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in the

Shakera Selman (CWI/Getty Images)

Kyshona Knight (CWI/Getty Images)

Kycia Knight (CWI/Getty Images)

Netherlands. Her last match was against Australia Women in the ICC Women’s

Cricket World Cup in March 2022.She played 141 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 117 T20 Internationals (T20Is). She took 180 ODI wickets, with a career best of 7-14 against Pakistan. She took 125 T20I wickets and in 2016 she became the first cricketer (male or female) to take 100 T20I wickets. She also has the distinction of being the first West Indian bowler to take a hat-trick in a Women’s T20I. She was a member of the West Indies Women’s team which won the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India in 2016. In her announcement,

Mohammed said: “The last 20 years have been truly amazing. I have enjoyed every single minute of it. The highs and the lows. I believe the time has come for me to step away from the game and allow the young players to live their dreams as I have lived mine. I was privileged enough to step onto the field wearing my maroon 258 times in my career. I have represented West Indies in

five (5) ODI World Cups and seven (7) T20 World Cups.

To my fellow teammates, thank you for all the love and respect shown to me during my time with you. You’ll have made my journey a memorable experience. I would also like to thank WI, coaches, managers, and medical staff for believing in me and always ensuring I was in the best possible place to represent the West Indies.

To my fans, it has been an honor representing you over the last 20 years. The love, support, encouragement, and respect from you’ll gave me the motivation to keep doing what love most.”

Selman started her international career against Ireland Women in Dublin in 2008 and quickly established herself as a key member of the West Indies (Continued on page 25)

Shamar Joseph became the tenth man from West Indies to pick up five wickets on Test debut. (Cricket Australia/Getty Images)

rts o p S

Shamar Joseph completes five-wicket haul on debut but Windies facing inevitable defeat after day two of Adelaide Test

Archery Guyana Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course successfully shoots off at the NRC International World Archery Coach and course facilitator, Ludy Tejada demonstrating a shooting process.

Participants involved in the activities during the ongoing course.

Australia beat Windies by 10wkts Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.