K
Exxon contract Sunday Edition NEWS was signed out of desperation because “we needed money”- Ramjattan AIETEUR
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
July 03, 2022
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com
Price $150
Online readership yesterday, 71,817
Talks with Exxon like negotiating with a superpower - President Ali Environmentalist calls for greater transparency - as last EPA annual report published 3 years ago
Opposition's proposal
to local content law - Attorney
unconstitutional
General
Domestic abuse hotline expanded to cater for vulnerable children
Violent protests must - COI can bring out be confronted truth and hold people
“once and for all” accountable
- Glenn Lall
Listen to The Glenn Lall Show @11am, 4&7pm on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM
PAGE 4
Kaieteur M@ilbox
KAIETEUR NEWS Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: SHARMAIN GRAINGER Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Send your letters to Kaieteur News, 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown or email us kaieteurnews@yahoo.com
Compensation only part of the equation; EDITORIAL appropriate actions should prevail Vice President Jagdeo, real numbers don’t lie
I
t is said that the devil is in the details, which have to sweat, to get to the real story. Another saying that has gained much traction from wide usage is that the numbers dont lie as they tell their own story that usually overpowers arguments, which cannot stand. In some respects, this is what a Guyanese economist highlighted in a recent call (“We dont want to hear your estimates, show us something solid Gaskin to Jagdeo on gas-to-energy project” -KN June 29). We think that is hitting the nail on the head, and pushing the Vice President in the right direction. It is that he must step up and deliver some numbers that can be carefully examined by competent citizens, so that they can take a position (supporting or dismissing) on this most expensive of projects. The invitation to the Vice President Jagdeo has more than its share of merits. The economist spoke of the role of assumptions, the huge cost of the project, and built his call on a set of timely and relevant questions. Assumptions have their place, and serve as a starting point, to give an idea of what is contemplated, what is involved, the basis for those, and where all of this lead. To our regret, Vice President Jagdeo has been touting this project, unlike any other, and as if it is the best thing that could happen to Guyana because it has only positives (win-win) for this country, but he does so using estimates as the centre of his salesmanship for this in excess of US$1B project. This is far from acceptable, not with that final price tag still up in the air, and yet another mystery gift from the Vice President to Guyanese. As economist Gaskin was keen to note, if that is not known at this stage, then all the rosy projections of the Vice President are nothing but meaningless, to put a soft plaster on it or to be sharp about it, then those sweet projections, based on the cleverness of Mr. J a g d e o , a r e n o t h i n g b u t h o t a i r, a n d s o m u c h guesswork. A simple 25 percent increase in the current announced price of the project could mean a cool quarter of a billion American dollars more to add to the debt burden of Guyanese. Presently, there are too many unknowns, and too many reasonable concerns, about the overall cost, and possible viability, of this gas-to-energy project for any Guyanese to swallow without pushback what the Vice President has placed before the nation. This has all the hallmarks of considerable liberties taken, and his regular fancy footwork. As we see it, what Mr. Jagdeo is saying is the equivalent of: trust me on this one. Given his past leadership record with big projects, that trust would not be forthcoming from this paper. That is, not until he makes a clean breast of all the facts and figures, real ones, surrounding this costly project, so that Guyanese can judge for themselves whether it is all upside for Guyana, as the Vice President keeps insisting. Mr. Jagdeo has been aggressive with his own handcrafted commercials for this project, but we call him out to back it up with what leaves no question unsettled. Questions were what Mr. Gaskin had by the fistful, and once the Vice President puts out convincing answers to them, he may even end up with some support for this pet project of his, because any answers that he provides stand to reasonableness. Questions like who is paying, who is making the real money, who is responsible for taxes, and who has the numbers speaking to these vital pieces of information. So far, he has not done any such thing, other than leaving Guyanese grasping for straws. Again, and disturbingly, this nation only knows what Mr. Jagdeo has seen it fit to tell it (based on estimates), and nothing more. Who came up with those estimates he brandishes? And what is the source/basis for them? All this is a well-guarded secret and, by now, Guyanese should know what that has done for this country, who benefits, and who holds the bag. So, Mr. Jagdeo, it is solid numbers, or nothing doing.
DEAR EDITOR, In the aftermath of the mayhem at Mon Repos on Tuesday, 16 persons were charged and one pleaded guilty. He was fined $20, 000, a mere pittance for such a crime, a pat on the wrist as if to say I understand, go on and beat, rob, destroy and loot again when instigated. They say that the punishment should be compatible with the crime. Where is the compatibility here or is it complicity? As is customary, the police did not respond quickly but very belatedly as if to send a message to do as you
want, we don’t approve of this government. The Police Force is regularly provided with cars, pickup trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, shortwave radios and bicycles, yet many times excuse themselves by saying that they don’t have transportation. In a divided country like Guyana, the Acting Commissioner and Regional Commanders should be answerable to such inefficiency. Mobilizing and acting should be priorities in their modus operandi. What about the use of short-wave radios to alert officers to
converge at a crime scene? When I lived in Brampton, Canada, one student had a knife in a high school and there was an immediate lock down of the school–no one could have exited or entered. Seven police cars arrived in minutes and officers took charge of the situation. Police who were patrolling got the message on their radios and converged immediately at the school. In Guyana, lack of mobilization and response is perhaps due to racism and covert support of banditry and the opposition politicians. Monetary compensation
for victims is not the remedy; it is being reactive and a consolation in an attempt to appease the victims. What about the trauma and looming fear of a recurrence every time a police officer shoots a Black person (an Indian man was killed recently by the police and there was no rampage.)? People have to realize that the underlying cause of this behaviour is the loss of the 2020 elections. Mayhem in Region 5 in September 2020 and at Mon Repos in June 2022 supposedly due to (Continued on page 5)
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 5
Kaieteur News
Kaieteur M@ilbox
Kaieteur M@ilbox
I have not an ounce of respect for Eusi Kwayana
Backward country
DEAR EDITOR, I rise very early. My delivery girl brings the newspaper early too. Therefore, I read them as soon as they are delivered because my job as an opinion-maker dictates that. One Sunday morning, I read the interview in the Stabroek News with Mr. Lawrence Latchmansingh on the role of the Catholic Church as part of civil society. Immediately, I went to the keyboard to question the role of the Catholic Church in the ethnic and political healing process in troubled Guyana. Please my letter of Monday, May 30, 2022 in the Stabroek News with the title, “I do not see Mr. Latchmansingh as part of any effort to civilize political discourse in Guyana.” I now repeat the same feeling on Saturday morning of June 2 when I read a letter by Eusi Kwayana captioned, “The public needs to know exactly what this Commissioner of Inquiry into the elections will investigate.” I was stunned by the hypocritical headline because of the exchanges in the press that I had with Kwayana when the March 2020 general elections were being rigged. His attitude was unambiguous. He wrote that he could not pronounce on what was taking place in the Ashmins Building because he was too far away. Since that exchange in which Mr. Kwayana cited geographical distance as his excuse for not condemning the election, I have done 19 pieces exposing the self-destruction of Eusi
Kwayana. Here is an enumeration; (1) – Friday, March 13, 2020, “Questions maybe Messrs Bhagwan and Kwayana may never answer.” (2) – Sunday, April 19, 2020, “Eusi Kwayana: Edward Said on Sartre.” (3) – Tuesday, April 28, 2020, “Eusi Kwayana knows a little of me, nothing of Claudette Singh.” (4) – Sunday, May 10, 2020, “After this, we will never see some Guyanese the same way again.” (5) – Friday, May 15, 2020, “Kwayana’s position makes Walter Rodney turn in his grave.” (6) – Monday, June 8, 2020, “Kwayana is revealing a tendency to malice, never before seen.” (7) – Wednesday, June 10, 2020, “WPA and AFC: People’s Power, No Dictator.” (8) – Thursday, July 2, 2020, “The pathetic, unbelievable, political decline of Eusi Kwayana.” (9) – Wednesday, July 8, 2020, “I don’t give a damn who is Indian, African, White, etc.” (10) – Monday, July 20, 2020, People like Jeffrey, Hinds and people like the ordinary Joe.” (11) – Saturday, July 25, 2020, “Eusi Kwayana: Long journey back into Sydney King.” (12) – Saturday, August 7, 2020, “Nagamootoo, Kwayana, Green: Secrets of Guyanese politics.” (13) – Wednesday, October 22, 2020, “Eusi Kwayana: The disgraceful fall of an icon.” (14) – Sunday, November 1, 2020, “To Kwayana, I say I am proud of 50 years of tantrums.” (15) – Saturday, November 7, 2020, “Lewis, Kwayana, Alexander: The facts and the truths of
Guyana.” (16) – Saturday, February 13, 2021, “Mr. Kwayana, show some respect for your age. Please!” (17) – Monday, March 15, 2021, “Eusi Kwayana was a tragic revelation in my life.” (18) – Monday, April 12, 2021, “The WPA’s great evaders have found their voice.” (19) Saturday, April 10, 2021, “Kwayana at 96: The runner stumbles.” Isn’t it funny that because of distance, Kwayana couldn’t pronounce on the rigging but since March 2020, he has written more than 10 letters to the Guyanese newspapers commenting on developments here? The question is; how the distance allows him to see these things? How being far away in the US, Mr. Kwayana knows about an altercation in parliament between a PPP and PNC parliamentarian? How does he know that the police shot a man in his bed in Dartmouth, Essequibo? So we come to his current letter. Where did he get the information on what that the Guyanese people need to know? I live in Guyana and I believe a majority of Guyanese knows exactly what the commission will be investigating with regard to the March 2020 election. To this day, Mr. Kwayana has not penned one word acknowledging that the election results were being tampered with from March to July in 2020. I want to end by going on record as saying that (Continued on page 6)
DEAR EDITOR, I write as a Guyanese woman who is deeply troubled by all that is occurring in the country of my birth. A country that is tethering, racing to who knows where, on a runaway train. Shame on all those who held helm since independence. Now and Before. I recall being in a West Indian Supermarket in Canada several years ago when a stranger, after hearing me speak, stopped to ask if I was of Guyanese heritage. I assented and was surprised at his outburst .He vehemently exclaimed that he was finished with that country and would not be going back. I was taken aback, as I loved my country and could not understand how someone could express such hatred for the land of their birth as I have always felt there was nowhere like home. Needless to say, I am older, wiser and can empathize with him. I pen this letter simply because of an incident that occurred a few days ago. A young woman had a complaint against a young man who she claimed had tampered with some part of equipment she had asked him to fix. He denied it, but the woman was irate and after using extremely abusive language laced with expletives, said she knew someone in the Guyana Police Force and she was going to get him to do something. A little while later, five policemen arrived at the man’s home, some with guns asking him to accompany them to the
Compensation only part of the equation... From page 4 the shooting of Blacks by the police ( Indians were shot and killed too) are the results of orchestrated opposition instigators who work behind the scenes to victimize Indians who are largely responsible for electing a PPPC government. It is revenge for being defeated at the polls, which the PNCR have not accepted, or digested, to this day. This misbehaviour by the PNCR will continue if not controlled and quelled in a timely manner. Moreover, the Police Force putting one of their own on close then open arrest is unlawful; the officer should have been arrested and placed on remand until trial by the courts. The Magistrate imposing $20,000 fine for violent robbery and vandalism is a travesty of
justice and a clear message that what was done was no big deal, the slothful response of the police, who have a history of doing nothing but looking on, when Indians are beaten and robbed should be condemned, are all manifestations of the partisan nature of people entrusted to be guardians of the nation. It is dereliction and abdication of duties and responsibilities and should be looked into by our leaders, including opposition leaders. Do not forget the past. In Germany in 1939, previously friendly people turned against their neighbours, disassociated with them and called them ‘dirty Jews”. Young Brownshirts came with hatchets, looting and destroying Jewish businesses…In droves, they carted away whatever they
could, the police arrived, not to protect the victims but to direct traffic. The firemen only tried to stop fires from spreading to neighbouring buildings, not to save burning Jewish property and adults, including school teachers, told children to throw rocks at Jews (their friends just days before) and their homes (CRUCIBLE OF TERROR by Max Liebster). Does that ring a bell? More of the beatings, looting, vandalism and robbery will likely occur in future if the authorities, including the GPF and GDF do not intervene in a timely manner. Further, having the ‘Black Pudding Man’ holding a Bullhorn and inciting people to “Undermine this government” should be dealt with as seditious and treasonous and dealt with the full force of the law.
Additionally, submitting that a man who threatened the President’s life has mental health issues is not good enough. A magistrate should have sent him for further psychiatric evaluation. How many persons with mental issues have not set fires to buildings and killed other person? The president will visit, address, order financial compensation and then fly off to a foreign country or location for an engagement, with the tragedy a bygone matter. Meanwhile, the underlying cause is brewing and will erupt again as happened in 2020, 2022 and post elections that the PPPC won in the past. It is time for those in control to get a grip of the situation and be on top of it. Sincerely, Karan Chand
station. FIVE! The wife, angry at what took place shouted that he (her husband) should never have tried to help the junkie (referring to the complainant). One officer told her, if she wanted him to lock her up (for speaking, mind you). Looking on at what was playing out was a three year old who said that she did not like police. Is this how the police should be viewed by our young ones? Now, many citizens have complained that it’s a waste of time to call the police for various reasons. My question is how come the police was able to be so prompt on a simple matter and send not one policeman, but FIVE? Is it because the young woman was attractive and knew someone with some bit of rank? Another matter that incensed me is a video I saw a day ago, of a policeman hitting a detainee who was sitting in the carriage of a police vehicle. The guy got angry got up and began to return the blows. He was hauled out of the vehicle, fell to the floor and was stamped by another police with his boots. It causes me to wonder what kind of beasts we are dealing with here. Who trains these ignoramuses! Isn’t there a standard procedure to
follow? The US Embassy and passport office have an influx of applicants. Why do Guyanese wish to flee? No hope! Too much unfairness, hypocrisy, greed and unjustness struts the land. Money, and, plenty of it cannot turn a beast into a beauty, nor does a suit create a gentleman. The men folk have broken our nation; the educated, the so called elites, the politicians have wasted our beautiful land. Shame on them all. It’s a sad day for those who are looking for a husband. Good luck! Not certain how many have an ounce of integrity. To those who would say it’s a universal situation, I focus on Guyana. I have two questions that I wish could be answered. (1) Why does the bank deduct withholding taxes from pensions? Why does one have to apply to GRA to have it stopped? Backward country. (2) What happens to bail money that has not being claimed for some reason or the other? Shouldn’t the police authority print the names affixed to unclaimed bail money? Is it ethical to keep it without advertising it as unclaimed? Do they audit that or is it spoils for who knows? J. Hinds
PAGE 6
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Kaieteur M@ilbox
Kaieteur M@ilbox
Typical PNC tactics cleared up by Norton
Guyana, China relations have stood the test of time
DEAR EDITOR, If ever there were doubts or misconceptions in our minds as regards the method, scope, and intentions of the attack at the Mon Repos Market, it has all been cleared up now with that asinine statement made by The Opposition Leader. A paraphrase of what Mr. Norton is saying is that it is the PPP/C who inflicted the racial attack on the Indian vendors at Mon Repos then would turn again and blame it on the looters. This is typical PNC tactics done in the very same way they are peddling the venomous lies that it is the PPP/C who rigged the March 2020 Elections. Nothing could be further from the truth and even if you had half a brain that a situa-
tion such as Elections 2020 was an act of the PNC and its lackeys, there is no question in any one’s mind on this one. But they persist with this line of lying persuasion, that is, blaming the misdeeds on the victims of crime, that they actually believe it. But the real reason for them brazenly lying and disgracefully embarrassing themselves lies in the following (a) that the Mon Repos mayhem was a politically motivated and racially orchestrated act was something that had its genesis in a political party we all know who - and (b) the Government’s immediate assistance to the victims. I would linger a little longer on part (b) of the above, that is, government’s rapid response to the victims’ demise. It is a well known fact that these so called protest actions have a direct purpose
in mind, to inflict maximum damage to the victims and then sit back and gloatingly watch them grovel. I am talking about watching the victims cry and suffer knowing not how they can get back on their feet. However, a caring government was quick to the rescue to help these innocent people - who had nothing to do with Quindon Bacchus’ death - get back their livelihoods and go on to have a decent life again. This has the PNC party stunned and at the same time seething with anger, that those terrorists moronic plan did not meet its final fulfillment. Nothing hurts a subversive element more than when that individual’s plan is openly thwarted; this is their problematic sore! Respectfully, Neil Adams
Winner-take-all system of governance, the underlying cause of our problems DEAR EDITOR, If we were honest, we would admit that the number one problem we have in Guyana is the winner-take-all system of governance. This is compounded by the very close link between our politics and race. So issues of a political nature are viewed as being racial. This is further compounded by the perceived high incidence of corruption and political and thus racial discrimination perpetrated by the governing party. Mistrust is everywhere because our leaders lack integrity across the political divide. So when a government controls 100 percent of the country’s resources by virtue of a single seat in a 65 seat
Parliament, how can any reasonable person think that there would not always be serious political and thus racial problems in the country? Fifty-six years after becoming an independent nation, we are nowhere closer to finding a solution, than we were in the 1960s when the bloody racial conflict nearly tore the country apart. The events of last Tuesday, is a stark reminder of how fragile the situation continues to be. Has anyone even contemplated what could have happened if there was retaliation by the other side? Our divisive politics which puts one major race against the other is a recipe
for confrontation and trouble. And until Guyanese in general, and our political leaders in particular, accept that the winner-take-all system of governance is the underlying cause of our problems, the volcano of mistrust and disaffection will continue to spew ash as it did last Tuesday. When will our leaders accept that Guyana is a tinder box fuelled by the perception of corruption and racial discrimination? The President’s “One Guyana” mantra is meaningless. Is there a comprehensive plan to achieve this “One Guyana” aspiration? Yours truly, Dougla
Not a good idea for four lanes DEAR EDITOR, I happened upon a Newsroom article (June 26, 2022) which mentioned the possibility of widening the railway embankment road from Sherriff Street to Enmore, to accommodate four lanes of traffic. While it is good to see that officers from the Ministry of Public Works have
recognised the need for more roads on the East Coast corridor, I appeal to them to reconsider the widening of this road. The existing carriageway which allows for two lanes of traffic is flanked by mostly residential areas. Currently, persons living there are bombarded by traffic noise day and night from large trucks, minibuses, motorcycles and cars,
compounded with excessive use of horns and loud music from just 2 lanes of traffic. Added to this is the high prevalence of dust and exhaust fumes from the vehicles utilizing the road. Expanding the railway embankment to four lanes will only intensify the noise, dust and exhaust pollution to persons living nearby. It (Continued on page 65)
I have not an ounce of respect... From page 5 Mr. Kwayana has been one of the bi g g e s t disappointments not in my political life but my life in general. I look back at the millions of times I defended him in conversations with my
mother and mother-in-law. Both ladies have gone to their final reward and I feel penetrating angst that the stupidity of youth prevented me from seeing the flaws of Homo sapiens. Drs Clive Thomas and Rupert Roopnaraine, like
Kwayana, have not uttered one word about the rigged election of 2020. You really have to feel sorry deep inside your emotion make-up that Walter Rodney was so terribly betrayed. Sincerely, Frederick Kissoon
DEAR EDITOR, As we celebrate 50 years of Diplomatic Relations with the Peoples Republic of China, the people of Guyana have been the beneficiaries of that relationship, which began in late June 1972 and in spite of our rapidly changing and confused world, the Guyana China friendship has stood the test of time. In 1972, Guyana was part of the fury of an all-consuming Cold War and with the proposal to establish Diplomatic Relations with the
Peoples Republic of China, many Cabinet members expressed some concerns and felt that it would be unwise for Guyana to be the first in the Caribbean to embrace the PRC. I am glad that the late Dr. Ptolemy Reid, President Forbes Burnham and my good self ignored what you believe to be the pusillanimous approach by many of our colleagues and advanced the process and today I am the only person alive and proudly so, who supported the move to embrace the PRC.
I look forward to young Guyanese understanding the history of the world to appreciate the strength and stamina of the Chinese who emerged from the imperial domination of the Second World War and today as we noted at the recent G7 Meeting that the superpowers must now accept the promise and progress of China. A Happy and Prosperous 50th Anniversary. Regards, Hamilton Green Elder
This has to stop now! DEAR EDITOR, With recent accounts of the protest/riot on the East Coast of Demerara, it has shown how inconvenient, incompetent, ignorant and downgraded our behaviours have been. I’ve established Guyana has no future if it continues like this. Racism will always be there if the above mention behaviour exists. I know people will be reading this and sucking their teeth but it just takes events like these to show people’s true colours.
Just a reminder to those with their racial opinions, keep it to yourself and carry it to your grave because social media was not meant to voice your hateful opinions, whether you’re Black, Indian, Amerindian/Indigenous, Chinese or whatever race you are. There are people within your race with the same Selfishness, Dishonesty, Jealous, Greedy, Apathetic, Arrogance, Stubborn, Cruel, Rudeness, Grumpy, Cynical, Impulsive, Vindictive, Disloyal, Manipulative,
Obnoxious, Gullible, Reckless, Resentful and Lazy mentality. So stop thinking that one race has all these bad qualities and look at your own for once. And for the love of God, stop sharing your nasty impulsive rambling about each other’s race. They are just starting racial conflict on both sides. Let this nation be peaceful and let’s live by what “ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY” means. Your respectfully, Advocate for Peace
Revenues must be collected DEAR EDITOR, With other right thinking citizens, I have privately and in a letter expressed my abhorrence for the lawlessness that took place during the protest march on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. Additionally, I express my sympathy to those who suffered loss of goods and experienced the trauma of this lawlessness. I also noted that the mayhem could very well have been the work of provocateurs and mercenaries for Partisan Political Purposes. This technique is as old as the hills. We noted the alacrity with
which the present promise to have those who suffered compensated. This initiative is in order as His Excellency Irfaan Ali acted swiftly, properly and presidentially. I congratulate him. I have heard that some persons have claimed the loss of millions of dollars for a single item and others claimed they have lost cash of varying substantial sums. In the interest of transparency, as it is now become known, these persons work for substantial sums through vending. For example, the woman who lost $3M worth of dhal puri, channa, pholourie, etc and that GRA will take note and ensure that these
persons are paying their fair share of income tax as public servants are. Many who apparently earn far less are paying their fair share of income tax. This letter is merely to make manifest to the celebrated sentiments of Lord Mansfield which follows: “Let justice be done though the heavens fall.” I am copying this letter to the President’s Office and the GRA to show what is already in circulation, so that the incident is not used only as an opportunity to dole out sums of State funds to certain folks but to ensure that revenues are also collected. Hamilton Green Elder
With Guyana on the cusp of significant oil & gas benefits a strong, credible opposition is necessary DEAR EDITOR, There is a clip circulating on social media of Opposition and PNC/APNU leader, Aubrey Norton. The clip was taken from Mr. Norton’s most recent press conference, during which he read a prepared statement,
presumably from a teleprompter. In a flight of fantasy, Mr. Norton claimed that the protesters, who stormed Mon Repos market on June 28, and inflicted beatings, robberies and millions of dollars in damages to the property of their
hapless indo-Guyanese victims, were sent by the governing PPP. Not only is this claim absurd but it inflicts further damage to Mr. Norton’s already waning credibility and does a serious (Continued on page 9)
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . N . . . T U T L N N T U U L N L B U . B . . L . . We Only Have To Believe! . T B T . . N . N T U L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . N T B . . U N . L T U L B N . . B . U . . T L N U NT. LUNT...B L N B U . . L . T B . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L B U UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N B U .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . T B . . L LU ...BLUN . T B . . N . T U L N T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U BBL T...BLUN BLUNT... ...BLU . T . N . N T U L B U T...BLUN NT...BLU T...BNLTU U N N N L U U U B L . L B T LUNT.. UNT...B L B B Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
President Irfaan Ali in a bid to justify his government's decision to not renegotiate the Exxon contract has likened the oil company to a superpower.
But while in opposition, Ali himself had passionately assured the nation that once in office his government would not only review but renegotiate the contract. It is therefore clear that the President has lost his testicular fortitude and is now subservient to the superpower called Exxon.
Although it is clear that no one in government is prepared to stand up for this nation, we are not perturbed, for it is when things seem to be at their worst that the Almighty Creator is able to step in, proving that only He can make an impossibility possible – we only have to believe.
PAGE 07
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 9
Kaieteur News
The system must be allowed to work! Nothing would satisfy those protesting the death of Quindon Bacchus other than an outcome charges against the policemen accused of his killing. The issue of a fair investigation, in such a scenario, only becomes fair if it results in an outcome favourable to the protestors. But is there prima facie evidence to establish a case of an extrajudicial execution? If the fleeing Bacchus did fire shots at the pursuing rank, then the return of fire may have been justified. In such a scenario while the death of Bacchus would have been unfortunate, it would not amount to an extra judicial execution. Notwithstanding this fact that the protestors may not be satisfied with findings which do not accord with their narrative, there is still merit in the suggestion of an open and transparent process for investigations into shooting deaths of civilians by the police. This call has been made by A New and United Guyana. Unfortunately, ANUG falls into the trap of predetermining the outcome of the very process for which it is calling. As the basis for its call, ANUG uses four examples of persons killed and, according to reports, contends that in all of these cases, justice was not done. But why was the justice not done? Was it because the findings of these reviews were not made public or was it because the findings were not consistent with certain narratives?
And justice for whom? Is ANUG assuming that in all of these cases that the police were at fault? So what happens to the presumption of innocence? There exists an independent mechanism for investigating unnatural deaths. It is a Coroners Inquest. The law provides for coroners inquests to be held into all cases of unnatural deaths. A Coroners Inquest is an inquiry to determine the identity of the deceased, where death occurred, how it happened and what was the cause of death. In making a determination as to the cause of death, coroners are usually required to specify the actual cause of death and the factors that contributed to this cause. The findings of a coroner, however, do not create criminal culpability. But it can eventually lead to criminal charges being instituted and is one of the main benefits of having such inquests. Another is the openness of the process. Coroners inquests, however, do not necessarily deliver justice. The inquest into the death of Walter Rodney found that he died as a result of misadventure. A few years ago, a senior police officer, Leon Fraser, was lured into a wooded area and shot and killed by what was believed to be sniper fire. He was believed to have been shot by criminals hiding in the wooded area. The inquest into his death, however, found that his colleagues took too long to get him to the hospital.
Coroners Inquest can also drag out for months and years. There is no guarantee that the outcome of an inquest can be concluded swiftly. Unfortunately, the human resources are simply not there for undertaking such inquests into all unnatural deaths. Magistrates are already overworked and overwhelmed with their caseloads. To ask them to conduct Coroners Inquest would be too taxing. The APNU+AFC amended the Corners Act in order to allow for the appointment of Coroners in the magisterial districts. Unfortunately, this was never done and there is backlog of inquests ordered by the Director of Public Prosecutions. The holding of coroners inquest into unnatural deaths should be done in a more timely fashion. In fact, the laws should be amended to ensure that within three months of an unnatural death, an inquest commences. This will help to restore public confidence in the system and ensure that there can be no police cover-ups because any such attempt will be quickly intercepted by the coroners inquest. The need for more and more timely Coroners inquests does not preclude the obligation of the police to investigate unnatural deaths, including killings by the police. If the police cannot investigate its own ranks, then the system of law enforcement is in a greater crisis than is presumed. The police have in the
Dem boys seh...
Police should be respected Dem Boys is old-school. Dem never see police station door. Dem does stay on de straight and narrow path. Things was not always nice but dem boys never get tempt fuh tief. Dem boys does get provoke but dem boys never lose dem tempa and beat anybody. Dat is old school fuh yuh. Now dem boys know dat when police tell yuh move, dat is a lawful order. Yuh should move and if yuh nah move de police can take action to move yuh. Is suh with dem protest-
ors wah did blocking road. De police tell dem move and dem nah move and suh de police had to take lawful action fuh disperse dem. De police use tear gas and pellets. Now de Opposition seh how de police fire indiscriminately at protestors. Like dem Opposition nah know how pellet gun does operate. Suh is nah dat de police fire indiscriminately or de man behind de gun hand shaking like de star in Blazing Saddles. De police always getting blame. But dem wah blocking
road and beating and robbing people getting less blame dan de police. Dem boys wan know when people gan show mo respect fuh de police. If de police decide fuh strike, wah gan happen to de country. As dem old people does say, yuh does only miss de water till de well run dry. And if dem nah gat police in de country, nah just de water gan dry up. Old school does show respect fuh police. Suh you should too. Talk half. Leff half.
With Guyana on the cusp of... From page 6 disservice to this country at a time when it is poised to reap significant financial and other benefits from oil and gas. What Mr. Norton fails to realize is that the country
needs a strong and credible opposition and Opposition Leader to provide the necessary checks and balances and to be the guardians of the nation’s finances, particularly during
this time. If this is Mr. Norton’s posture now, how does he expect to be taken seriously when he is actually speaking the truth? Regards, Thomas Cole
past investigated its own. And policemen have been charged with indictable offenses. Guyana must not go down the road of substituting one form of investigation be it Coroners Inquest or Special Investigation for a routine police investigation. There is no harm in having both an inquest and a
police investigation. But the need for an open and transparent process should not result in an abandonment of the polices duty to investigate all unnatural deaths, including homicides and those resulting from accidents. The system, however, lacking in confidence, must be allowed to work.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
sweN rueteiaK
PAGE 10
Sunday July 03, 2022
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
We need President Biden's DGB in Guyana I've learnt a lot being with my dog daily on the seawall and the National Park. And when I say a lot, I mean an enormous amount. I could never be racially driven and don't care to have any involvement with any cultural club though I believe ethnic groups have a natural, inherent urge to protect, preserve and promulgate their heritage. I would gladly support financially an event sponsored by an Indian, African or Chinese group in Guyana. But it begins and ends there. That is who I am. I have seen how deeply caring are people for each other in this country and it cuts across ethnicity. My wife and I got stalled with a dead battery on the middle of busy Camp Street between Lamaha and New Market streets. A mini-bus pulled up, the driver was African Guyanese. He parked awkwardly so I could have gotten a jump start. I saw a few African men trying to bully an Indian woman caught in an accident in which the motorcyclist was in the wrong.
They began to bully the woman and I intervened and they got aggressive with me and were getting racial in their vocabulary. Luckily, up the road, I saw a police vehicle crossing the street not far from us. I drove quickly and summoned them. I will always remember the words of the African rank when he heard what was being said when he came out of the car. This is what he yelled out: “I ain waan hear who is coolie maan, who is black maan, I wan know who wrong and who right.” With those words, everyone went quiet. The average person in this country is honest and not mean-spirited and it is racist advocates and media recklessness that have been polluting the flower beds of Guyana. What is uglier are those who assume an innocent, independent stance yet take partisan position that are uglier than the politicians that fight each other across the racial divide. Given the toxic terrain Guyana lives on, I have always maintained that each
output of nasty lie, infected fiction must be responded to because when you do that you save an innocent mind. I have most of the times, in my own little way, confronted colossal lies and gargantuan fictions and though I may not know of the specific situation in which many minds were saved from being polluted, I believe they have. President Biden has enacted a mechanism that needs to be started up in Guyana. It is named Disinformation Governance Board (DGB). Its purpose is to reply to fetid disinformation that rightwing, racist sections of the US are feeding the American people on a daily basis. In Guyana, this is long overdue after the March 2020 election debacle. We have in this country, really horrible attempts to pass on horrendous lies by people with an evil agenda and there should be a DGB to save young minds from this miasma. A member of the lunatic fringe said on social media that the PPP ministers have stolen billions of
American dollars since they came into power. Could opposition supporters buy this putridity? Maybe some can say that is why you need a DGB.David Hinds made a comment on me in the online publication of Buxton named Village Voice. He referred to me as an Indianist who wants to keep the PPP in power. Should I reply to that? Yes, obviously because people could be better informed. I voted for an Amerindian party in the last election, while Hinds voted for a predominantly African party, APNU + AFC, which he belonged to at the time. Hinds is the founder leader of two African organisations – Cuffy 250 and Society for the Empowerment of African Guyanese. I, on the other, have never had membership in any Indian organisation. So why am I an Indianist? The reasoning of people like Hinds and others are simple to understand and we must write on it. I believe and stated that the PPP won a free election in 2020 and is the rightful occupier of power. Secondly,
t h e A l i presidency is an elected one whose nature I see as no different in essence from other democratic countries around Frederick Kissoon the world. I do not see Dr. Ali as autocratic and Those who do not like the authoritarian. Until he government because of race departs from that direction, and class have a right to be he has my support. I make no oppositional but they have apologies for that and that no right to maliciously yell observation is especially out “fire, fire” in a crowded directed to those who crave cinema. (The views expressed in honour and respect in being anti-government. I have no this article are those of the class and racial agenda that a u t h o r a n d d o n o t p i t s m e a g a i n s t t h e necessarily reflect the Government of Guyana. opinions of this newspaper.)
119 new COVID-19 cases, 3 in ICU
O
n Saturday, the Ministry of Health reported that from 884 COVID-19 tests conducted, 119 new infections were recorded within the last assessed 24hour period. The 119 cases – 62 men and 57 women – have now brought the total number of confirmed cases to 67,591. The new infections, according to the Ministry's data, were detected in Region Four –61 cases, Region Two – 12 cases,
Region Six – 20 cases, Region Three – five cases, Region Seven – 10 cases, Region One – nine cases, and Region 10 – two cases. The dashboard shows that three patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 34 are in institutional isolation, 833 are in home isolation and three are quarantined institutionally. Within the last 24 hours, the Ministry reported that a total of 103 persons recovered.
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 11
Kaieteur News
PAGE 12
Sunday July 03, 2022
Exxon contract was signed out of desperation because “we needed money”- Ramjattan Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and former Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, has said that the former Coalition administration, of which his party was a part, had inked the contract with oil giant ExxonMobil back in 2016 because the country was in desperate need for money. Explaining that other sectors, particularly the agriculture and mining, were not performing well at the time, he said that the then administration entered into the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) or contract with Exxon, seeking to ensure that Guyana did
not sink into a financial crisis. The AFC leader gave this explanation during an exclusive interview with this newspaper on Saturday, where he also used the opportunity to call on the government of the day to ensure better provisions are included in any new PSA to be signed for the other oil blocks. He said, “We needed money; sugar wasn't making money, rice barely making any, gold barely making some, we needed (resources)… As politicians, you got to understand the calculus in decision-making and a lot of people
just don't get it. You don't sign up the agreement and they would've cuss yuh…but we needed money because sugar had to be downsized, it was just sucking up the treasury, taking a billion dollars a month.” The party leader believes that the oil revenue has come in handy, as an additional revenue stream to help the country. However, Ramjattan noted that the Government of Guyana should be preparing to ensure that oil companies pay their own taxes in any new PSA, as well as include other key provisions, since it has made it clear that it will not be
pushing for a renegotiation of the 2016 deal. This is particularly important he said as the oil giant is gearing to start exploration activities in two other oil blocks soon, namely Kaieteur and Canje. The AFC Leader believes that preparations should also be undergoing to ensure more royalty is paid to the country and ring-fencing is included to safeguard the country's revenue. According to Ramjattan, “That tax payment, I would want us to get better with that. We need to tighten up that…the taxation provisions (Continued on page 65)
Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 13
BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCY! In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecency in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation. SUNDAY Time For Introspection! There are times we, as a people, find ourselves caught up doing busy work thinking that we are making a colossal impact. But what some fail to realise is that there are occasions that we must do some introspection and see where each of us, as individuals, have erred. Maybe if we consider the truth of 2 Chronicles 7:14, the troubling tides of life may transform into a needed calm. The scripture says: “If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” MONDAY Let the protests continue!! Last week we witnessed several protest actions by citizens for various causes. Among these issues were the lopsided oil contract with ExxonMobil; the scandalous revelations in the Vice News interview that ensnared Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo and the gunning down of Quindon Bacchus by police some weeks ago at Haslington, East Coast Demerara.
We expect these protests to continue this week and perhaps with greater fervor. We at Kaieteur News are in full support of citizens standing up for their rights and fighting injustices in our society. For too long we have been silent, while allowing our leaders to run roughshod over us. Let the protests continue! TUESDAY Intimidating the press Recently, the nation was told of the disgraceful conduct of a sitting government minister who allegedly sent police on the Stabroek News because that newspaper dared to investigate his association with a local company that services the oil and gas sector. The Minister in question, Deodat Indar has denied the allegations, although the evidence points to something different. As mentioned by the newspaper in its editorial on Monday: “The visit by the detectives was clearly linked to Minister Indar and constituted an overt attempt by him to intimidate the reporter and to interfere with the work of the newspaper. The Minister won't succeed in his effort.” The behaviour of Indar- a junior minister who has barely cut his teeth in the post
Subsidise fuel importers cost... From page 3 increased cost of living. Lowe said that government needs to overcome their ignorance on fuel subsidies and act on the proposal to bring down and stabilise gas prices. “Given that the People's Progressive Party (PPP) has no plan to combat historically high gas and oil prices, this grasping at straws is not surprising.” To openly admit that nothing more could be done by the government to address consumers strain, “is an outright admission of failure.” Lowe charged that, “no serious government, much less an oil producer would abandon its people to potentially far higher oil prices… without considering further measures.” He said that they are bankrupted of ideas and that their response is flimsy where they have declared that it would be difficult for the government to compensate suppliers to prevent high prices from
being passed on to consumers. Instead of excuses and criticism, the Opposition is adamant that the government must find ways to ease the burden arising from high fuel prices and high cost of living. As recent as last Monday, local gas stations had seen another increase in fuel prices with gas for instance climbing to around $269 per litre from $250 per litre. Last y e a r, t h e G o v e r n m e n t reduced the excise tax on gasoline and diesel from 35 to 20 percent so as to ease the domestic impact of the continuous rise in the world market price for fuel. The prices at the pump were reduced with immediate effect, with gasoline prices reducing from $213 per litre to $198 per litre, and diesel prices reducing from $200 per litre to $185 per litre, at the time. In March of this year, the excise tax on gasoline and diesel was removed completely.
is symptomatic of the PPP/C's longstanding disdain and mistreatment of the press. Current Vice President Bharrat, when he was President is on record referring to reporters as vultures and carrion crows and infamously cut state advertising from local newspapers that were critical of his administration. Today, President Irfaan Ali is following suit, refusing to hold regular media briefings and has shutdown weekly post-Cabinet press conferences. We can expect more of the same, but the Kaieteur News will not sit idly by and allow the erosion of press freedom by people who like to boast that they are friends of it. WEDNESDAY Our society is in a worrying state When people take their eyes off their Creator and start looking to themselves for the answers to their problems, a moral collapse of society is inevitable. Indeed, yesterday's violent protest is evidence of the depths to which our society has declined.
But we all can agree that we didn't need a protest of riotous proportion to tell us that our society is in a worrying state. Our politicians have already made it clear that they care nothing for this nation by disregarding the many concerns about how our patrimony is handled. Instead of proving their worth as leaders, they would much rather ensure that every square inch of our dear land is auctioned off to the highest bidder. Perhaps when we are left with nothing to fight for, then Guyanese will begin to seek the intervention of the Creator. THURSDAY A misfiring President President Irfaan Ali came to government with some hope that he would have been a different leader than those who have gone before; today he has become a big disappointment. His refusal to frontally address corruption in government; the renegotiation of the Exxon contract and other ills of society has thus far blighted his presidency. Guyanese daily are complaining about the lopsided oil contract and how this country is being robbed of its resources without redress, but Ali is quiet and seems unbothered.
His demeanour in recent times is characterised by arrogance; his interactions with citizens have left much to be desired. The President has been misfiring. But our hope is built on nothing less than the power of the Creator. President Ali has some time to prove to us that he is a leader for all and someone who can be trusted to fulfill his promises. What Guyana badly needs is a President who will fire and not misfire. FRIDAY President Ali ECD visit President Ali must always remember one thing: Presidents in word and deed must be for all the people. This is even in attitude too. Quite reasonably and humanly, the President found a way to get to Mon Repos on Tuesday. M o s t r e g r e t t a b l y, President Ali could not find it in himself to go to Golden Grove, where the first blow was delivered, a great harm was inflicted upon a young man now gone, and a community left behind to pick up the pieces. The people there hurt too, just like our Guyanese brothers and sisters from what occurred at Mon Repos. Presidents must be eventempered and evenhanded in appearance and in action. Given what President Ali rushed to do at Mon Repos
and what resisted doing for Golden Grove confirms that his learning curve is both long and steep. For the peace and tranquility of this society, may he grow up quickly. SATURDAY President Ali and Gas-toShore President Ali is giving Guyanese gas on gas-toshore. That is the short of the story with his pumping citizens full of empty air with this over US$1B project. He is giving Guyanese little by way of information, but sits back with his expectation of passion and commitment from Guyanese praying for cheap electricity. President Ali says trust him and his Government. All Guyanese have gotten from trusting leaders and governments, is getting their hands burnt. With something as big as this, and as costly as this, we are sorry, sir, trust is a victim of the supply chain crisis serious shortage, almost a crisis. Give the nation something to bite on with this project, like the final price tag, and trust would begin from that point. Don't insult with this fuzzy arithmetic and voodoo economics and ask for trust. The world doesn't work like this, and the President ought to know this.
Domestic hotline extended to cater for vulnerable children The toll free domestic hotline, which was launched by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security in 2020, has been extended to cater for vulnerable children too. This was noted during an outreach the ministry had on Friday last at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD). M i n i s t e r Vi n d h y a Persaud, related to the media that the outreach was geared at taking all of the ministry's services, such as old age pension and others to the communities of Mon Repos and Buxton. During the outreach, some of the officials with the ministry advised residents to use the toll free emergency number, 914, to report cases of domestic violence. Assistant Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency, Leviene Gouveia related that the hotline number can also be used to report matters involving children, especially those
Gouveia said, “well here is what you will do, you will call 914, alright, and you will tell us when and what time of the day you see these children begging.” The Assistant Director explained that it is necessary to report when children are seen begging because they are endangering themselves. She noted that there are individuals who may be inclined to take advantage of these children's situation and even seek to cause them harm. Gouveia also warned the residents not to give “begging children” any money because CPA Assistant Director, this will only motivate them to Leviene Gouveia speaking continue begging. during Friday's outreach. Calling the professionals in to assist them, she said, will seen begging in public spaces. be the better option to provide Gouveia noted, “I know this is a help for the children since they may market place and we have been very well be be facing difficult receiving many reports of children situations at home. begging here,” even as she asked “Have She assured that once called in, the you seen some of them begging?” Some CPA will not only work with the of those gathered said that they have affected children but also their parents witnessed this “sometimes” and to this and the entire family.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 14
Sunday June 26, 2022
Legal hurdles preventing Hicken's official appointment as acting Top Cop - Forde Though steps have been taken towards officially m a k i n g D e p u t y Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken the acting Top Cop, attorney-at-law and A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Shadow Minister of Legal Affairs, Roysdale Forde is of the opinion that there are a number of legal hurdles which should prevent the government from moving forward with the process. Forde shared his views on
APNU+AFC Shadow Minister of Legal Affairs, Roysdale Forde
the matter, even as President Irfaan Ali, after consultation
with Chairperson of the Police Service Commission (PSC), Patrick Findlay, officially nominated Hicken as Guyana's acting Commissioner of Police. In a letter dated June 29, 2022, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, wrote to the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, outlining the reasons why Hicken was appointed acting Top Cop back in March. The letter also invited Norton to give his opinion on
the subject. However, according to Forde, Hicken must first undergo the legal and correct
process of appointment. Forde told Kaieteur News that the process of appointment cannot lawfully
go forward in the face of litigation and other legal c o n t e n t i o n s . “ We a r e (Continued on page 15)
From page 14
PAGE 16
WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY EXXON S BILLS FOR SEARCHING FOR OIL TOPS US$406M FOR PAST TWO YEARS …TO SKYROCKET IN FUTURE WITH DOZENS OF EXPLORATION WELLS PLANNED Searching for oil in Guyanas Stabroek Block over the past two years will cost the nation through its oil resource, some US$406M, according to extrapolations to be made using the recently released Financial Statements for Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPG)ExxonMobil Guyana. This, since according to the records, EEPGL has listed as its Exploration Costs for the two years, at G$36,543,373,507 for its 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. As such, it would mean Consortium partner, Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd., would be responsible and thereby reclaiming on its 30 percent interest representing some G$24,362,249,005 while China National Offshore Oil Company (CNOOC) for its 25 percent interest would assume claims for G$20,301,874,171 representing a total claims over the two-year period for exploration costs alone at G$81,207,496,683 (US$ 406,037,483.5). It would be apposite to note that included in the wells searching for oil over the past two years in the Stabroek Block were five wells that turned out to be dry-holes. It should be noted that the price tag for exploration more than doubled over the years with the costs expected to increase in the coming years. EEPGLExxonMobils subsidiary plans to, by the end of 2025, spud some 52 wells across the Stabroek and Canje Blocks during a fiveyear period, having begun an aggressive campaign in late December 2020. According to the schedule of exploration activities for the company for the Stabroek Block, the company is currently engaged in an aggressive 25-well exploration campaign that begun back in June of last year. That drilling campaign is expected to last until the end of 2025. This is in addition to a separate 12 well campaign that had started back in December 2020 in the Stabroek Block and ended earlier this year. Additionally, the US super major is also gearing for a 12well campaign in the Canje Block. An application for Environmental Authorisation has since been submitted to
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the 12-Well Exploration and Appraisal (E&A) Drilling Programme in the Canje Block, offshore Guyana. That campaign has since been put on hold following public objections to be considered by the EPA, as is catered for under the law. ExxonMobil back in 2020 said publicly that it had identified considerable undrilled potential of more than 50 leads in the blocks it operates in Guyanas offshore Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The oil major has also announced plans to do more drilling in prospects targeted in the Kaieteur Blocks. Only recently, during the recently concluded International Energy Conference and Expo, ExxonMobil Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Darren Woods, lauded the unprecedented achievements in Guyana. With this in mind, he told conference delegates that the oil company was still to explore in a significant portion of its concessions that could lead to further discoveries beyond the more than 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent that would mean future development opportunities. The ExxonMobil boss was adamant “people need access to energy including the energy resolution right here in Guyana; as people become more prosperous the need for energy will increase” and expressed the sentiment of a long future ahead in Guyana. OIL CONTRACT GIVES MINISTER POWER TO LET EXXON TAKE BACK ROYALTY STATIA …SAYS WAS NOT DONE BUT CONTRACT DOES NOT EXPLICITLYRULE OUT RECOVERY Oil producing countries across the world have been robbed of their lawful benefits due, through skullduggery involving taxes and royalties to be paid to the tune of billions of US dollars. As such, when the matter of whether Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)ExxonMobil Guyanaand their partners, Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. and China National Offshore Oil Company were recovering the two percent royalty paid to Guyana, it sparked a debate. This since, among other reasons, EEPGLs financial statements lists royalty payments as an expense after which it realised G$132B in profit last year and would have had to be making royalty payments on crude sold since December 2022. While Guyanas accounts have reflected receipts of royalty payments, ExxonMobil
along with Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo recently insisted that the contractor was in fact, reducing its profit in order to make its royalty to payment to the country which meant, the country was securing a bigger share of the profits had. This, since the formula for profit sharing under the agreement stipulates 75 percent of production be reserved as cost oil to make payments after which the contractor and government would split the profit. This newspaper had on two different occasions confronted Vice President Jagdeo on the matter and after not providing an initial answer, proffered that the royalty was not cost deductible but was in fact tax deductible. GRA Commissioner Godfrey Statia, on Saturday in an attempt to provide clarity, confirmed that the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed in 2016 between the parties was in fact silent on the matter but pointed to a provision that allows for ministerial discretion. According to Statia, on the matter of royalty, “Under Article 15.6 of the PSA under review, the contractor pays a Royalty of two percent to the Guyana Government on the value of all petroleum produced and sold. This item (Royalty) is not explicitly mentioned as cost recoverable under Annex C, Section 3.1 (without further approval of the Minister) or 3.2 (with approval of the Minister). Further, it is not mentioned under Section 3.3 of Annex C as a Cost not Recoverable under the Agreement.” According to Statia, however, “Even though Section 3.4 of Annex C, vests the power in the Minister to determine the recoverability of an expense not covered under the provisions of Section 3, such discretion has not been exercised by the Minister relative to Royalty. Section 3.4 of Annex C reads stipulates, “Other costs and expenses not covered or dealt with in the provisions of this Section 3 and which are incurred by the Contractor in the conduct of the Petroleum Operations are
recoverable subject to the approval of the Minister.” According to the GRA Commissioner General, however, “Royalties paid to the Guyana Government is an Expense incurred in the production of income for the contractor(s), but is not allowable in the calculation of Cost Oil.” And as such, he reasons “It therefore follows that the 2 percent Royalty payment currently adds to the Governments take. Hence the Guyana Government presently receives a total of 14.5 percent in Royalty and Profit Oil (2 percent plus 12.5 percent).” Additionally, on the matter of taxes, the Commissioner General, in his public missive seeking to clear the air, said, “the 2 percent Royalty paid to the Guyana Government is not a cost in determining Guyanas share of Profit Oil, but is an expense in determining the contractors taxable income.” MONDAY EXXON CONTRACT SILENT ON WHETHER ROYALTY IS RECOVERABLE - BUT CLEARLY STATES WHAT CAN OR CANNOT BE DEDUCTED The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that Guyana signed with ExxonMobil subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) and their partners for the Stabroek Block, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited is very specific on cost recovery. Under the terms of the PSA signed in 2016, up to 75 percent of the gross production of crude oil can be deducted as cost oil for expenses. In that PSA, there are essentially two categories, spending that can be recovered by the contractor, “without the Approval of the Minister,” instances where deduction can be made subject to the approval of the minister. A third category exists however where there are very specific exceptions where there is no recovery whatsoever such as provided for under Article 3 of the PSA which demands a Guarantee to be paid over to
the state shortly after signing. Another specific spending that has been blocked for deduction out of oil such as penalties to be imposed on the company by a Guyana court, or the costs related to arbitration. Other specific spending that has been explicitly spelled out as not for recovery is that of costs incurred as a result of negligence on the part of the oil operator. In total, in the Annex of the PSA, which outlines which items are specifically not to be recovered, there are seven such instances. Another aspect of the criteria for recovery or not can be gleaned from the charges that have been identified and specifically earmarked for Ministerial Approval. These include, Commission payments made to intermediaries, contributions or donations to organisations in Guyana, and expenditure on research into, and development of new equipment and techniques for the oil operations. There are also a total of 13 wide-ranging clauses, with even more sub-clauses highlighting in detail what the company is allowed to recover without the approval of the minister ranging from surface rights cost in acquiring the oil block to decommissioning costs to be used some 20 years later. In such detail is the breakdown of spending that from holidays and transportation of staff, travel and expense of expatriate staff. Charges for payments for services and the hiring of affiliate companies have been catered for in the PSA as being recoverable, purchases of materials to run the operations. There is even a provision for the recovery when buying used goods. The contract says those can be recovered providing the item purchased is had at 75 percent of the cost of a brandnew item. Rentals, duties, levies, taxes, insurance and losses, legal expenses, training costs, general and administrative costs, production costs, development costs, exploration costs, pre contract costs and even interest payments have been identified as being recoverable without the approval of the Minister, “including any other assess-
ments and charges levied by the government in connection with the petroleum operation and paid directly by the contractor.” Royalty is not mentioned a single time when it comes to what is recovered with or without the approval of the minister or explicitly barred altogether. Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Godfrey Statia over the weekend in an attempt to provide some clarity on the matter of royalty had said, even though Section 3.4 of Annex C, vests the power in the Minister to determine the recoverability of an expense not covered under the provisions of Section 3, “such discretion has not been exercised by the Minister relative to Royalty.” CONTRACT WITH EXXON MAKES A MOCKERY OF OUR CONSTITUTION - YOG MAHDEO SAYS DEALATTEMPTS TO SHACKLE GOVT. INTO MORE UNFAIR PROVISIONS The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that the government signed with US oil major ExxonMobil is a mockery to the countrys constitution as it attempts to shackle this country into more unfair provisions or benefits for the petroleum companies operating in Stabroek Block. This is the view of Dr. Yog Mahadeo, a transparency advocate and co-founder of the civil society body- Article 13. He gave this conclusion in an invited comment on Sunday while citing the necessity for the contract to be renegotiated. Mahadeo explained, “Of critical importance to me is the fact that we have not only allowed the Exxon contract to remove our wealth but are allowing them to effectively remove our constitutional right to elect a government that can create and enact laws on our behalf that is, the contract mocks and neuters our Parliaments ability to pass laws.” According to him, the PSA attempts to shackle the Government into financial (Continued on page 17)
Sunday July 03, 2022
From page 16 and other lopsided deals. “It also attempts, in Article 32, to handcuff the Government away from contemplating changing any laws that can impact the Agreement to the economic detriment of the Contractor. By attempting to shackle the Government, it therefore attempts to fetter the entire population from getting a Government in place that can pass laws as desired by and for the people. This unconstitutionality threatens our right to elect a Government that will make the right decisions on our behalf.” Article 32, which lists out conditions for Stability of the Agreement states at 32.1 that “Except as may be expressly provided herein, the Government shall not amend, modify, rescind, terminate, declare invalid or unenforceable, require renegotiation of, compel replacement or substitution, or otherwise seek to avoid, alter, or limit this Agreement without the prior written consent of Contractor.” The agreement goes on to say at 32.2 that “after the signing of this Agreement and in conformance with Article 15, the Government shall not increase the economic burdens of Contractor under this Agreement by applying to this Agreement or the operations conducted thereunder any increase of or any new petroleum related fiscal obligation, including but not limited to, any new taxes whatsoever, any new royalty, duties, fees, charges, valueadded tax (VAT) or other imposts.” The advocate pointed out that a clear example of this case is seen in the matter where Guyanas Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall S.C is representing the Government alongside ExxonMobil against Kaieteur News Publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall who has challenged the “discriminatory” tax holidays being enjoyed by the oil company. As such, Mahadeo noted that the contract is not only lopsided due to the unfair benefits to the people of Guyana, but also due to the terms outlined that seek to block the passage of new laws that can affect the companys profits. He argued, “It is also bad for us as Guyanese because it exemplifies how close the Peoples Progressive Party, the Peoples National Congress and the Alliance For Change are all on this, defending each other’s position and doing everything to make a wrong look and feel right. [Vice President Bharrat]
PAGE 17
Kaieteur News
Jagdeo, [President Irfaan] Ali et al. were well aware of the Contract’s terms and conditions when they made the election promise to renegotiate. They either blatantly lied to the people then- before elections- or are lying now that they are the prime beneficiaries of all the oil revenues since they direct, at will, the use of these funds and the preservation of Exxon’s Contract against us.” TUESDAY PROTESTS FOR BETTER OIL DEAL SPREAD ACROSS CITY - ARTICLE 13, JOINS GLENN LALL, OTHERS As resistance against the unfavourable Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) between Guyana, Exxon and its partners continue in different quarters of the country, civil society group Article 13 has taken their protest for the first time to the Office of the President and has sent a clear message to Leader of the Opposition Aubrey Norton that he is next in line to be demonstrated against. Remaining adamant in their bid for change to the countrys oil contract, the civil society body is prepared to picket the National Assembly, all oil and gas agencies and ministries with responsibility for the sector and members of the Opposition for their inaction in securing a better deal for Guyanas oil and gas resources. The group is also scheduled to take its concerns countrywide, with the intention of making citizens aware of the PSA, how it negatively impacts the country and ultimately their ability to benefit from the resource. Article 13s co-founder, Dr. Yog Mahadeo told the Kaieteur News that the organisation is keen on public awareness and is bent on providing copies of the PSA to ensure persons see the document and become aware of the hurtful provisions. Mahadeo told the newspaper that so far, the group has gone to Berbice, Essequibo and will be heading to Linden, among other areas, as part of their educational outreaches. The Article 13 insisted that the entire National Assembly needs to come together in support of changing the contract. At this point however, what appears to be happening is a conspiracy by both parties, protecting each others position on not renegotiating this contract, Dr. Desmond Thomas who lent support to the protest said. He said that there are very few things in the history in this country which the two politi-
Dr. Yog Mahadeo (second right), Dr. Desmond Thomas discussing one of the oppressive provisions in the 2016 PSA with other protestors
cal parties have agreed on and found it very interesting that they both agree on not negotiating this terrible PSA. They are on the same side defending the oil contract, Thomas highlighted. He believes therefore that outside of possibly corrupt actions in the doling out of Guyanas oil benefits, there may be outside pressure coming down on the leaders to uphold the contract. Dr. Mahadeo nonetheless went on to address the PSA “apologists”. He related that while in the past there were loud voices against the lopsided PSA, “all of a sudden theres a ton of cheerleaders for this contract,” with several persons, some paid by the government, writing articles supporting same. “In 2016 when we all opposed it (PSA), we all came out publicly. Madame Gail Teixeira in Parliament on 8 of August 2016 spoke on all our behalves when she said that this is no good. Now that opposition is the government and suddenly it (PSA) is good. We cant have it both ways,” Mahadeo charged. The current government lied when claiming that they would renegotiate the contract, “and all we want is to ask them to restart negotiations; to put the contract back on the table as Guyanese need better.” He continued therefore that since the PSA states clearly that no change or renegotiation can occur unless all parties agree to head back to the negotiating table, Mahadeo asserted that instead of the government and opposition talking about the sanctity of contracts, they should state clearly whether they at any time approached ExxonMobil and friends to request changes to increase Guyanas oil benefits and what
the response was. GUYANAGETS ROYALTY ONLY FOR OIL SOLD NOT PRODUCED …RESULTED IN COUNTRY GETTING FAR LESS The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) has been described as lopsided and unfair by Guyanese leaders from both sides of the political divide and continued perusal of that contract illustrates numerous ways in which the country has agreed to lose money. This was also recently corroborated by Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia over the weekend when he sought to clear the air on the matter of royalty that is supposed to be paid by the oil companies. He noted that under Article 15.6 of the PSA under review, the contractor pays a Royalty of two percent to the Guyana Government on the value of all petroleum produced and sold, “less the quantities of petroleum used for fuel or transportation in Petroleum operations, from all production licences subject to this agreement. As it relates to cost oil, the PSA dictates that this is calculated as 75 percent of what was produced in the licence area, and taken from what was sold. Taken cumulatively with the generous nature with which free oil and other provisions are not included in the calculations for royalty it would mean that the amount due to the country as royalty is lessened. The findings were documented in an oil sector analysis penned by Chartered Accountant and Attorney-at Law, Christopher Ram, who observed that in the PSA at Article 14.1, it provides among other things that: “The Contractor shall have
the right to use as much production as may be needed in any Petroleum Operations within the Contract Area and also within the transportation and terminal system. In the event of third party usage of the transportation terminal systems, the quantities so used or lost outside the Contract Area shall be proportionate to aggregate use of that transportation and terminal system. All quantities so used or lost shall be excluded from any calculations of entitlement pursuant to Article 11.” Describing the provision as generously misleading, Ram posited that “Article 14.1 is more generous than the Taxation and Royalty Article by allowing deduction from gross production the fuel equivalent used not only in the Contract Area of 26,806 sq. km. but in an enlarged transportation and terminal system.” He suggested at the time, “with our petroleum people showing a frightening mix of unwillingness with an apparent inability to learn, the Agreement sets us up for a very lopsided arrangement.” Ram posited too, “I am not entirely satisfied that these concessions are in fact permitted under the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act but who cares? We fight for political power but nonchalantly give away our patrimony.” Additionally, Tom Mitro, a former director of the University of Houstons Global Energy, Development and Sustainability programme, and former Chevron executive with decades of experience negotiating international contracts, has argued that it is additional benefits in the PSA that caused the contract to be lopsided in favour of the oil companies. He argues that the country is losing primarily through the deductions being made by the
operator and not necessarily in the profit sharing aspect of the deal. His views were recently shared in a Forbes Magazine Energy report captioned “As Guyanas Oil Business Booms, Could a Potential New Deal with Exxon Loom?” WEDNESDAY MISLEADING REPORT TRIGGERS VIOLENT PROTEST ACROSS 15 EAST COAST VILLAGES -SCORES OF PEOPLE BEATEN AND ROBBED, BUSINESS PLACES LOOTED, A misleading news report by an online media house, the Guyana Daily News, is being blamed for triggering violent protests on Tuesday across 15 East Coast Demerara (ECD) villages. Protestors began their march from Golden Grove, passed through the villages of Haslington, Enmore, Paradise, Enterprise, Melanie, Coldingen, Bladen Hall, Strathspey, Vigilance, Friendship, Buxton, Annandale, Lusignan, Good Hope and stopped at Mon Repos, although they were reportedly heading for Georgetown. Roads were blocked with debris and burning tyres while scores of people were beaten and robbed. Market stalls and business places were looted and several vehicles were torched. It all started when the online media house reported that a policeman, Kristoff DeNobrega, who is accused of unlawfully killing a Haslington man, Quindon Bacchus, 25, was released from custody. The Haslington man was shot six times earlier this month by the policeman during an alleged sting operation to seize an illegal gun. Police had later (Continued on page 18)
PAGE 18
From page 17 debunked the Daily News report and stated that DeNobrega was never released and is still in their custody under open arrest. This, however, did nothing to halt the violence and robbery spree that would follow. Family members had read the report and it led them to believe that they will not receive any justice for their dead relative because the prime suspect was free from the law. They decided to stage a protest early Tuesday at Golden Grove, ECD demanding justice and the re-arrest of the Bacchus alleged killer. Kaieteur News was told that the villagers joined the family members in protest and made a public call for other neighbouring villages to join them. The protest actions reportedly started off peacefully with them walking down the East Coast corridor but then tensions began to rise as more persons joined. Protestors blocked the Golden Grove public road with debris and burning tyres and at some point, a decision was taken for them to march to Georgetown. Live Facebook videos began surfacing of protestors some walking, others on motorcycles and scores on bicycles - heading down the ECD Highway towards the city shouting for justice. MOB OF RIOTERS A few police ranks who were on the ground monitoring them related to Kaieteur News that as the protestors passed through the villages leading to Mon Repos, they called on the spectators along the way to join them. The spectators obeyed and the crowd grew and suddenly turned into a mob of rioters. As they approached Annandale, tensions were high and violence erupted. Kaieteur News understands that a supermarket in that area was stormed and looted. Vendors at the Annandale Market were attacked. Police then reportedly moved to warn businesses to shut their doors and even sent word to vendors at Lusignan and Mon Repos markets to lock-up and go home. As the vendors were reportedly packing-up their goods, police prepared their riot squad and began setting up road blocks at Beterverwagting and Sparendaam. As Kaieteur News headed to the scene, gas station employees were rushing to secure their premises and supermarket owners were scurrying to close their shutters even as workers ran for safety. Moments later, the violence increased and the pro-
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
testors reportedly ambushed vendors and stormed business places at Lusignan and Mon Repos. The Mon Repos Market suffered the worst the atmosphere there was chaotic. Stalls were destroyed and some burnt even as vendors were beaten and robbed, and vehicles were vandalised and then torched. WE DONT WANT TO HEAR YOUR ESTIMATES, SHOW US SOMETHING SOLID GASKIN TO JAGDEO ON GAS-TOENERGY PROJECT Two weeks ago, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo held a press conference where he used estimates to convince the media and viewers of the live broadcast that the USmultibillion gas-to-energy project will slash electricity costs by half. He gave this assurance even though the final cost for the project has not yet been solidified. To this end, transparency activist, Ramon Gaskin, has said that the leader must show the country the feasibility study, rather than use assumptions to force the project. Gaskin gave this view during a recent interview with Kaieteur News. He argued, “A billion dollars is a lot of money and we dont have the details on it. Who is paying this billion US for the gas-to-shore? Who is making the money? Who is paying the taxes? Where is the agreement? Where is the numbers? We dont have any information sufficient to really study this billion dollar gasto-shore deal.” The transparency activist also factored in the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, in which the government of Guyana was looking to have a Chinese contractor Build, Own, Operate and then Transfer (BOOT) the project to the state. The Chinese investment was pegged at US$750 for 165 megawatts of electricity. Gaskin told this publication, “Similarly, the US$750 million Amaila deal, we dont have the information on it and the Chinese walked away from it the other day on the BOOT arrangement…US$750 million for a 165 megawatts would never be feasible in this country because the cost of this thing is five times the cost of regular energy and if we have to buy energy at five times the cost, the electricity cost will be more than double any time of the day.” He added, “This whole nonsense that the electricity rates would be down by 50 percent and cut in half is just nonsense. We havent seen the numbers…and now they
Transparency activist, Mr. Ramon Gaskin want to talk about a billion US for over 200 megawatts all of which is craziness. In any proper country, you would get a medical doctor to examine their brains for lunacy cause most of them are mad people.” The activist told Kaieteur News that the government must not keep the figures and details of the gas-to-energy project a secret but must produce the feasibility study to assure the public of its benefits. Two Wednesdays ago when Jagdeo was questioned about the feasibility of the project by the Publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall, he explained that government is currently estimating how much it could gain from the venture, as no solid figure has been determined as yet. The gas-to-energy project will encompass three major aspects, that is, the pipeline to transport the gas to Wales; the Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility that will treat and separate the gas and the power plant to generate the electricity. So far, Guyanese have been told that the pipeline aspect, which is being pursued by US oil major, ExxonMobil, will cost around US$1.3 billion. Even this is expected to increase when Exxon closes critical contracts for same. The costs for the other two facilities had not been disclosed, prior to Jagdeos press engagement. In addition, the public was told that a fee would have been attached to the transportation of the gas but the VP has since clarified that the natural resource will be supplied free of cost. It must be noted, however, that the Guyanese public will be saddled with the debt for the gas-to-energy project over a 20 year period, to repay the investments made. The repayment will be done via their monthly electricity bills based on the overall cost for the venture. But since this cost has not yet been finalised, the cost of electricity too is still in limbo.
President of Suriname, Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi
THURSDAY OIL RESOURCES DONT BELONG TO ANY GOVT. OR POLITICAL PARTY …IT BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE, THEY SHOULD BENEFIT SURINAMESE PRESIDENT SAYS “Our natural ecosystem including oil and gas is Godgiven so it cannot be claimed or owned by any government or any political party it belongs to the people of the nation and they should benefit from the wealth that is being generated.” Those were the words of President of Suriname, Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi. The Surinamese President made the remarks during his feature address at the opening ceremony of the Suriname Oil and Gas Energy Conference (SOGEC) which is being held in Paramaribo, Suriname. While President Santokhi invited persons to invest in Surinames oil and gas sector, he was keen to note that the new found oil and gas resources must be managed in a way that steer the economy to the next level of development, and also deliver on common goals in a sustainable way to secure the lives of the next generation. The President then added: “We have created, in my country a wealth and a stabilisation fund that must be the financial basket for the future of our country. We are keenly aware that securing the funds for the purpose for which it was created also requires a government committed to being prudent and efficient in using those funds with cheques and balances built in.” After highlighting that the oil and gas wealth belongs to the people of the country and that they must benefit, the Surinamese President underscored that the government has the responsibility to protect the good use of the resources. President Santokhi stated that he believes that the income from oil and gas should be utilised by investing in the present generation as well as that of
future generations. As such, he noted that the wealth and stabilisation fund is instrumental to save a portion of the income for the future generation. He added, “Furthermore, the income of oil and gas will be used to develop the transition to renewable and green energy and also that this income should be utilised to diversify our economy and industry to strengthen government institutions and to invest in human capital in order to build a resilient community.” He explained that oil and gas cannot be an end in themselves, and it should be seen as a means to achieve higher goals for creating stable, prosperous and peaceful societies. “For this, the short term benefit must come from long term strategic boost and to end defining this future path we must be both and ambitious. We must demonstrate trust in our capabilities,” the president added. Moreover, President Santokhi noted that the oil and gas strategy of Suriname will be a part of its vision 2060 strategy. He then explained that soon he will commission the national commission vision 2060 which will develop a road map outlining where the country wants to be in 40 years and how it can be achieved. He also noted that part of this vision must be how the country can develop and strengthen its domestic capabilities regarding labour, services and expertise. Notably, this is not the first time the Surinamese President has underscored as important that citizens of the country must benefit from wealth generated from the oil and gas resources. In fact, in February, while addressing the opening of the four-day International Energy Conference and Expo, which was held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, President Santokhi urged Guyana s leaders to ensure that Guyanas newfound oil wealth benefits all Guyanese and to
secure for the future generations. In fact, he had said, “These fortunate countries [Guyana and Suriname] have saved a major part of the revenues to be able to provide for generations to come. We have the same goal and commitment to our current and certainly, our future generations.” In addition to being able to provide for generations to come, the President urged too that the two countries be responsible in the development of the oil resources in an “environmentally-friendly and sound manner.” GUYSUCO HEADING TO BUY MORE “UNSUITABLE” TRACTORS SOURCE …CEO SAYS HE DOES NOTACT WITHOUT CABINETAPPROVAL The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has received a proposal for the supply of four more GAME agriculture tractors to be used in soil preparation for the cultivation of sugarcane. However sources close to the company are concerned that the potential purchase will be yet another procurement of “unsuitable” equipment to be used by the corporation. This newspaper understands that GuySuCo would have received a proposal from American company Game Equipment LLC earlier this month to purchase more tractors, “similar to the ones the Government purchased a few weeks ago. Whats strange is that Game Tractors are used as haulage tractors meaning to take canes from fields to factories but GuySuCo is buying them to till lands.” The source said that references for the use of the tractors point directly to haulage as its primary use while GuySuCo needs the items for tillage. “No one uses them (tractors) to till but GuySuCo is, (although) it appears the tractor is not capable of what GuySuCo wants it to do.” In the Game (Continued on page 64)
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 23
VILLAGE
BELVEDERE VILLAGE
…a welcoming and ever expanding community By Malisa Playter-Harry
W
ith a population of just over 25,000 people, Belvedere is an intriguing village situated at East Berbice on the Corentyne highway, some 15 miles away from New Amsterdam. With many old and new businesses, the community, which has grown over the years, consists of North and South Belvedere with the Anamayah Memorial Hospital (a private health institution) situated at a centralised location. This hospital has been in operation for over 10 years and offers a wide range of medical services. Medical services are also offered at the 'Walter Singh' Private Clinic which is located a short distance away. Catering to the grocery and other needs of residents at an affordable cost is the 'Emo' Gas Station and Supermarket which, according to residents, is always filled with customers. This is owing to the fact that they consider it their most economical choice when purchasing retail or wholesale. Just a stone's throw away is the 'Good Life' Chinese Supermarket. Residents also have access to quality cuts of meat from two butcher shops – the D. Arjune Chicken Outlet and the Zeareat Ali's Halaal Outlet – and several other businesses, including a car wash, snackettes, grocery and confectionary shops, liquor shops, barber shops. While there are at least two new businesses under construction that are expected to soon open their doors, a business that has been in existence for decades in the community is the Matadeen Confectionary Shop and Western Union outlet. Recently, the Waterfalls The Matadeen Shop.
Entering the village of Belvedere from the western end.
caught up with Aditya K. Matadeen, whose father owns the business. He revealed that the building, which doubles as their home and the business, was built some 69 years ago. The design of the structure, he said, has been preserved for over two generations because of its sentimental value. Matadeen, who is a former student of the J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School in Port Mourant, said that it was his great grandparents who first lived at the house and started the business which has grown considerably over the years. He added that since he has been living there, “Belvedere has transformed a lot from when I was growing up to now. Yes, there are a lot of places and buildings that are abandoned but the people that remain are very close-knitted and we try to support each other as much as we can.” But according to Matadeen, things have become “rather busy recently” and “it has moved from being quiet, a few years ago, to a busier business-driven community.” He said that he is excited about the new businesses now taking shape, especially a three-storey building near to his family's property. He is convinced that the building, said to be a hotel in the making, will help to boost the aesthetics of the area. Another building under construction is expected to house a new auto spare
been sugar estate workers. Matadeen said that while the family's business was doing well over the years, the impact of COVID-19 caused it to decline. “It affected us tremendously because prior to COVID, business was going well so we had enough. We were stockpiling, basically we were buying a larger quantity of stocks and then COVID hit...it's a slow recovery for us and for most of
The Zeareat and Son Halaal outlet.
An old painting of the Matadeen Shop as it was when it was bought
parts outlet and paint shop. “Every body is j u s t trying
to make a hustle basically, so there isn't much to offer but what I would say is t h e friendliness a n d t h e support of the people, if anyone comes here, they will Resident, Aditya Matadeen be greeted with an open arm and they will have a hospitable welcome and nobody, I don't think anyone, will have a bad experience here if they come to stay,” Matadeen said with a smile. Although the community has many businesses, like several other Berbice areas, many of the workingclass residents have over the years
the businesses around the area that didn't have any support from the government.” Nevertheless, the business place remains a household name and is said to be the place to go to shop for all confectionaries and grocery items. The Western Union section is used daily by customers for remittance services. They can also purchase credit for their Guyana and Power Light Inc. pre-paid meters. Cultural extravaganza However, what is well known and is usually executed every year, much to the delight of hundreds of Berbicians, is the cultural show held by the Matadeens. The show is usually done on the front lawns of their premises the day before Diwali. It includes cultural Indian dancing, singing and the sharing of sweet meat, at no cost to members of the public. With sponsorship from the business community, the event, which was started back in the day by Matadeen's grandparents, grew in magnitude over the years. In fact, Matadeen said that pre-pandemic, it had grown so much that it was held at the Hampshire/Belvedere Centre Ground. The event has not been hosted in two years, but the family, Matadeen said, is hoping to get things back in action soon. “Most of it we do on our own and we have good support from the local people, the villagers, the mandirs, they contribute and they volunteer their time and their service to make it (Continued on page 53)
PAGE 24
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 25
The Constitution and You In the beginning there was the end, a repeal of Guyana's Independence Act 1966 By Gary Eleazar Guyana, through years of struggle, on May 26, 1966 lowered the Union Jack for the last time and hoisted the Golden Arrowhead, marking the beginning of a new era as a free and independent nation, free to determine its destiny and more importantly in charge of setting its own rules. Early in this young nation's existence, there were changes to be made but it was not until 1980 that the country was able to formally move in that direction. So, in the beginning, there was the end, the end of one epoch with the repeal of Guyana Independence Act and Independence Order of 1966, in order to pave the way for the nation's Supreme Law—the Constitution of Guyana—which came into force, in October 1980. With the coming into being of the Constitution, the rights of every Guyanese were enshrined in Law, as is the case with new legislative protocols and mechanisms for government, the newborn country and encapsulates, among other things, the exercise of the powers of Parliament and the President. The all-encompassing laws were also constructed to address, inter alia, the role and powers of the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Supreme Court, Commissions and critically, the country's electoral list and a list of electors. This, since it was the birth of a new way of doing things in the young democratic nations, nestled on the northern shores of South America between Spanish speaking neighbour to the West Ve n e z u e l a , D u t c h Guiana/Suriname to the east and to the South, Brazil. With its new destiny ahead, Prime Minister Linden Forbes Burnham at that time assumed the post of Executive President of Guyana of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, with new homegrown rules in hand. The country had 10 years earlier attained its Republican status, stripping off the final cords of colonial rule. Supremacy The final document is divided
A perusal of Article 163 outlines that this delves into specifically, the determination of questions as to the membership and elections for members of the country's 65-member legislative body, consisting those elected to government and opposition
referred to as the Burnham questions as to the interpretation of Constitution, has not been in this Constitution; and (b) final existence without its share of decisions given in the exercise of “We the Guyanese people, heirs of condemnation and praise, the jurisdiction conferred on the nonetheless, the course had been High Court by article 153 (which the indomitable will of our forebears, charted. relates to the enforcement of in a spirit of reconciliation and But who exactly charted this fundamental rights and freedoms.” course. No doubt there would have As with the case with just about cooperation, proclaim this Constitution, been numerous contributions to its any law written, there are caveats, in order to” firstly, “safeguard final formulation by legal in this case Article 133 (2) luminaries. Since laws are written stipulates, “Nothing in this and build on the rich heritage, for its words or text to be paragraph (1) shall apply to the we won, through tireless struggle, considered, according to lawyers, matters for which provision is bequeathed by our forebears.” to be taken in the content of its made in Article 163.” spirit and intent. A perusal of Article 163 Solemn Affirmation outlines that this delves into The document itself provides specifically, the determination of some insight, as adumbrated in questions as to the membership Preamble to the more than 230 and elections for members of the into a number of sections, each Articles—each subdivided into a country's 65-member legislative subdivided the first of which, plethora of provisions and further body, consisting those elected to aptly names the new law, supplemented by even more government and opposition. Chapter 1:01 Constitution of schedules. Guyana has had some The Cooperative Republic In that it affirms immediately, experience with this aspect of of Guyana Act. “We the Guyanese people, heirs of the Constitution in the recent Immediately the indomitable will of our past, when the matter of thereafter, this law goes forebears, in a spirit of eligibility was raised in on to begin establishing reconciliation and cooperation, relation to a number of then its Supremacy, as has proclaim this constitution, in order sitting Ministers and this been adumbrated by to” firstly, “safeguard and build on column intends to also numerous legal scholars the rich heritage, we won, through explore this in future. in many forums, including tireless struggle, bequeathed by T h a t 1 9 8 0 the Magistracy and our forebears.” Constitution Judiciary when lawyers The Constitution of Guyana; — s i n c e With its new destiny ahead, Prime Minister Linden argue a case or rulings “affirms our sovereignty, our amended Forbes Burnham at that time assumed the post are handed down and independence and our somewhat—c of Executive President of Guyana of the Cooperative National Assembly (Continued on page 63) ommonly w h e r e l e g i s l a t o r s Republic of Guyana, with new homegrown rules in hand oftentimes consider the implications of their actions and its conformity to the Constitution. That Article reads, “References in Article 133 of the Constitution to any question as to the interpretation of the Constitution shall be construed as including references to any question as to the interpretation of any provision of this act.” In short, wherever Article 133 and its provisions references a section of the constitution, its meaning must be in conformity with other provisions in that document. Article 133, which is referenced, deals with Appeals on constitutional questions and fundamental rights. It reads, (1) An Appeal to the Court of Appeal shall lie as of right from decisions of the High Court in the following cases, that is to We the Guyanese people, heirs of the indomitable will of our say—(a) final decisions in any forebears, in a spirit of reconciliation and cooperation, proclaim… civil or criminal proceedings on
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 27
“Male Menopause”: Is there such a thing? By Dr. Zulfikar Bux Emergency Medicine Specialist
As men reach their 40s and 50s, they experience changes in their body and symptoms that could be devastating at times. These changes are sometimes termed “male menopause”. But is there such a condition as “male menopause”? Today we will get down to the bottom of this term and explain what really happens when men approach this period in their lives. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS THAT STIMULATE THE USE OF THIS TERM? The following symptoms have led to the suggestion that men undergo menopause when the reach their 40s and 50s: d e p r e s s i o n loss of sex drive erectile dysfunction mood swings and irritability loss of muscle mass and reduced ability to exercise fat redistribution, such as
developing a large belly or “ m a n b o o b s ” a general lack of enthusiasm o r e n e r g y difficulty sleeping or increased tiredness poor concentration and short-term memory These symptoms can interfere with everyday life and happiness, so it's important to find the underlying cause and work out what can be done to resolve it. IS THERE SUCH A THING AS A 'MALE MENOPAUSE'?
The “male menopause” is an unhelpful term sometimes used in the media. This label is misleading because it suggests the symptoms are the result of a sudden drop in testosterone in middle age, similar to what occurs in the female menopause. This is not true. Although testosterone levels fall as men age, the decline is steady at less than two percent a year from around the age of 30 to 40, and this is
unlikely to cause any problems in itself. A testosterone deficiency that develops later in life, also known as late-onset hypogonadism, can sometimes be responsible for these symptoms, but in many cases, the symptoms are nothing to do with hormones.
PERSONAL OR LIFESTYLE ISSUES Lifestyle factors or psychological problems are often responsible for many of these symptoms. For example, erectile dysfunction, loss of libido and mood swings may be the result of stress, depression, anxiety or the misuse of alcohol or illicit drugs. There are also physical causes of erectile dysfunction, such as changes in the blood vessels, which may happen alongside any psychological cause. Psychological problems are typically brought on by work or relationship issues, divorce or financial problems. A “midlife crisis”
can also be responsible. This can happen when men think they have reached life's halfway stage. Anxieties over what they have accomplished so far, either in their job or personal life, can lead to a period of d e p r e s s i o n . O t h e r p o s s i b l e lifestyle/psychological causes of the “male menopause” include: lack of sleep a poor diet lack of exercise drinking too much alcohol smoking low self-esteem LATE-ONSET HYPOGONADISM
In some cases, where lifestyle or psychological problems do not seem to be responsible, the symptoms of the “male menopause” may be the result of hypogonadism, where the testes produce few or no hormones. Hypogonadism is sometimes present from birth, which can cause symptoms like delayed puberty and small testes.
Hypogonadism c a n a l s o occasionally develop later in l i f e , particularly in men who are Dr. Zulfikar Bux obese or have Emergency type 2 diabetes. Medicine Specialist This is known as may benefit from medication late-onset hypogonadism and can or a talking therapy, such as cause the “male menopause” cognitive behavioral therapy symptoms. But this is an (CBT). Your doctor may also uncommon and specific medical condition that's not a order a blood test to measure normal part of ageing. A your testosterone levels. If diagnosis of late-onset the results suggest you have hypogonadism can usually a testosterone deficiency, be made based on your you may have to start symptoms and the results of testosterone replacement to blood tests used to measure c o r r e c t t h e h o r m o n e deficiency, which should your testosterone levels. relieve your symptoms. WHAT SHOULD Most of the time, these “male YOU DO? menopausal” symptoms are If you're experiencing related to lifestyle or any of these symptoms, see p s y c h o l o g i c a l f a c t o r s . your doctor. They'll ask Exercising, seeking help and a b o u t y o u r w o r k a n d avoiding triggers will help to personal life to see if your alleviate these symptoms symptoms may be caused by most of the time and will free a mental health issue, such as you of being labelled as stress or anxiety. If stress or g o i n g t h r o u g h “ m a l e anxiety is affecting you, you menopause”.
PAGE 28
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 29
>>> ENCOURAGING EVENTS, DISTURBING DEVELOPMENTS <<<
East Coast protest, Every Child Safe, penalising accounting officers By GHK Lall
T
uesday's protest on the East Coast looked bad, was bad. There are no two ways about that, and let it be said. I don't understand how attacking persons, and damaging and looting property brings justice for Quindon Bacchus, dead by police bullets in highly troubling circumstances. The protest was ill-conceived and ill-planned, and should never have deteriorated, as it did. One possible crime cannot be justified by the commission of numerous other definite ones, as occurred on Tuesday. What the lower East Coast lived through was not a protest, but a rampaging mob. All the underpinnings generated by the questionable killing of Quindon Bacchus were demolished by the actions of those committing mayhem. Legitimate protest is given a bad name. It disturbed that so many protestors engaged in what they did, and how they achieved their criminal goals. I must ask if this was the primary objective of coming out on the road. If the objective is to pressure a dirty government, then maximise the pressure brought to bear on it. Don't target fellow citizens. Guyanese have
become accustomed to roadway blockages and bonfires, as employed by both sides of the political divide. Do that. Protest to get voices heard, not hands stained.Now there are other concerning issues I put before citizens. The Guyana Police Force was a study in stillness, until the worst was over. When our police is politicised as it has been (even more blatantly recently), then there could be the reasonable expectation of either sloth, or on-the-ground assessment failures in the heat of the moment, or purposeful tactical approaches that delayed or neglected, until it was too late. I read that President Ali went into the so-called lion's den, but with an army of defenders. This informs ordinary Guyanese, especially battered ones from Tuesday, about who gets protection, and who doesn't. Certainly, the President is entitled to a security blanket, but such a heavy duty one raises eyebrows, and provokes bitterness at the inequities heaped upon lawabiding Guyanese. The President was quick to speak of some silly parliamentary tabling of the violence, as if that is going to resolve anything. He needs to stop playing politics (and cards) and be brave enough and honest enough to face up to
what citizens must face in day-to-day Guyana. More than financial and physical damage was done, longstanding psychological ones were restored also. The sharply contentious sides of Guyanese politics and its divide are not going to benefit from leadership sound bites, and temporary social poultices. All of this disturbs immensely, and I have warned that we sit on an active volcano. I think that the ugly developments on the East Coast furnish a glimpse of the uselessness of the 'One Guyana' slogan and its visions. What this country needs is deep and genuine soulsearching, and willingness to come to grips with its age-old demons. Our governance system is not working. Our public protective institutions have been weakened, and public confidence in them is in tatters. Hence, we live with another familiar episode along the East Coast. We can talk till the cows come home about democracy and free and fair, but then we have to deal with what is the real Guyana at the core. We must stop fooling ourselves that what we have as a governance system is nationally constructive, is accepted across the board. Whenever we do so, we are burying our heads in the
sand, while the wantonness and barbarities of Guyana pass us by. We continue with what we have, and we reap what we get in pieces, or the long-expected swarm later. I need some air, and Minister Vindhya Persaud helped with news of the 'Every Child Safe' competition. Awareness protects our vulnerable children, information about follow-up action strengthens, and engaging them inspires them. This heartens. Another Minister noted that State Accounting Officers could be penalised
for dodging the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). They o v e r s e e spending of the people's money, and t h e PA C checks and pushes for answers. T h e i r appearance is a must, and if they don't, then deal with them. This hiding in plain sight must cease if we are to get anywhere.
GHK Lall (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
PAGE 30
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 31
Dust off the Commonwealth SG elections By Sir Ronald Sanders Much has been written in the Caribbean media about the contest surrounding the post of Commonwealth Secretary-General that was decided on Friday, June 24 at an election in Kigali, the Capital of Rwanda. Many statements and claims were made that require clarification, particularly as some of them convey misleading impressions. One of these claims is that relations between CARICOM countries that supported one or other of the two rival female candidates, are now irreparably harmed. No credence should be given to that assertion. This is not the first time that the Caribbean has had rival candidates for international posts. Indeed, in 2015 the region had rival candidates for both the posts of Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral and Deputy Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS). In the latter case, it was Belize and Guyana. Once the elections were concluded and a candidate was chosen by all the members of the two organizations (not just the Caribbean states), CARICOM governments continued in their intergovernmental relations, focusing on the issues of government for which they were elected. Exactly the same thing will happen again. The other fallacy associated with the Kigali election is that CARICOM had to agree on a single candidate. In reality, every Commonwealth country has the right to field a candidate.
Jamaica was under no obligation to support the British Baroness, who is a member of the British Parliament (on leave). Like every other Commonwealth country, Jamaica had the intrinsic right to field or support the candidate of its choice. CARICOM countries may have an obligation under the CARICOM Treaty to coordinate their foreign policy positions, but none to harmonise them. Jamaica had no duty to support a candidate proposed by any other country if in its own deliberate judgment, it felt there was good reason to support another. There is ample precedent for this, set in 2015, when, although the majority of CARICOM countries had settled on the candidate of Antigua and Barbuda (me) f o r t h e p o s t o f Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral, the Dominica government insisted on inserting the candidature of the British Baroness and member of the British Parliament because she was born in Dominica. Jamaica ought not to be pilloried, in this instance, for doing what others have done with impunity in the past – that is to maintain the candidacy of the person it favoured. Allegations have also been made that the Jamaica Foreign Minister, Kamina Johnson, was the choice of the British Government, and that Jamaica was encouraged to field her candidature at the behest of the British Prime Minister, who had made his disapproval of Scotland wellknown. It appears to be forgotten that, in 2015, the British Baroness, Patricia Scotland,
was not only chosen by the British Government but her candidature was openly promoted and advanced by every British agency t h r o u g h o u t t h e Commonwealth. In any event, at the contest in Kigali, at which Scotland received 27 votes to Johnson's 24, a deep schism was revealed in the Commonwealth. Scotland clearly does not command the support of almost half of the Commonwealth members, notably the main financial contributors to the organization – Australia, Britain, and Canada – all of which have reduced their financial contributions over their concern with Scotland's stewardship. Scotland has been elected to serve out the two remaining years of a four-year term into which she drifted, because the COVID19 pandemic prevented a Heads of Government meeting. The Kigali contest was not won by Scotland. It was won by Africa which put all its votes behind her for a simple reason – Africa plans to field a candidate for the job in 2024. Had Kamina
Johnson been elected, it would have been for a fouryear term, ending in 2026 with the possibility of another term to 2030. Africa was not about to wait. In part, this was why Kenya was persuaded to withdraw the candidature of Energy and Petroleum Minister, Dr. Monica Juma, which its President Uhuru Kenyatta, announced in August 2021. It was brought to Kenya's attention that Dr. Juma might end up only with finishing the 2020 to 2024 term that COVID-19 allowed Scotland to start. It was better for Africa to leave the British Baroness in place as a lame duck Secretary-General until 2024, when Dr. Juma could look forward to at least a four-year term, with the possibility of a further four years, giving her the post until 2032. The election of an African candidate in 2024 is now almost a foregone conclusion, especially as, at Kigali, two more African states – Gabon and Togo were admitted to membership, creating a bloc of 21 states. Even if Africa does not
agree on a single candidate, what is certain is that the candidates for the post will all come from Africa. Based on the “turn” notion, which seems to have become wrongly embedded in the minds of some governments, rather than choosing the best person for the job based on their qualifications and commitment, the Caribbean will not be considered for the job of Secretary-General until other regions have had a turn. With Europe, Asia, and the Pacific ahead of the A m e r i c a s (Canada/Caribbean), it could be 2056 until anyone from the Caribbean might be considered. But even then, it could be Canada which hasn't held the post since 1965. Caribbean countries must dust off the election of the Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral and concentrate on working, through the councils of the Commonwealth, on making the organisation relevant to
Sir Ronald Sanders their own people, and meaningful to the peoples of the world. The big issues remain: poverty and unemployment, climate change, inequality, access to financing and development. The Commonwealth confronted these problems in the past; it must be fashioned to do so again. (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassador to the United States of America and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto) Responses and previous c o m m e n t a r i e s : www.sirronaldsanders.com
PAGE 32
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
This day in 3 y l u J – y r Histo Compiled by Zena Henry
A loose bolt caused the largest rocket explosion in history You may have heard about the ‘space race’, a 20th century competition by two cold war rivals, the United States and the Soviet Union regarding advancements in space exploration. On July 3, 1969, the Soviet Union’s dreams of a moon rocket went up in smoke and fire on the launch pad as the largest explosion of any rocket in history. The Soviet N1 rocket booster was a giant rocket meant to carry objects or people beyond Earth orbit, basically to the moon. Its first stage is the most powerful single stage of any rocket ever made, and that includes the American counterpart, the Saturn V. The 5-stage monster N1 rockets were 344 feet tall and almost 56 feet in diameter. Weighing in at over 6 million pounds, they were designed for a payload of 200,000 pounds into low earth orbit or 58,000 pounds past earth orbit. The heavy lift rockets were expected to carry out reconnaissance of possible landing spots on the moon and then carry manned flights there. Unfortunately for the Soviet space programme, all four attempted launches resulted in failure, with the launch of July 3, 1969, resulting in a giant explosion that also destroyed the launch pad. Investigation showed that a loose bolt was sucked into an
Н-1 1M1 mockup on the launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in late 1967 oxygen pump causing the rocket motors to automatically shut down and the rocket to fall from its maximum lift off of nearly 200 meters. It took a year and a half just to rebuild the launch pad, putting the Soviets far behind in the “space race.” When the United States successfully landed on the moon and returned the crew safely in July of 1969, the Soviet space programme was given other priorities. The four failed launch attempts of the N1 would be their only missions, and no more would be built. (History Headlines)
Legendary comedian and actor Andy Griffith died American actor Andy Griffith, whose portrayal of a small-town sheriff made “The Andy Griffith Show” one of television’s most enduring shows, died at his North Carolina home at the ripe age of A black and white scene from the show with Sheriff Andy Griffith and his Deputy Barney Fife 86. “At approximately 7 a.m., political upheavals of the 1960s. July 3, 2012, Andy Griffith “It was at a point where America was passed away at his home on Roanoke Island, Dare County, North Carolina,” county Sheriff really in turmoil,” executive producer John Watkin had told USA Today. “‘The Andy J.D. Doughtie said in a written statement. Griffith created another memorable Griffith Show’ and Mayberry represented in character, the folksy defense lawyer in some sense this kind of idealised view of what “Matlock” in the 1980s and 1990s, but it was America was. It contains such a heart, such a his role as Sheriff Andy Taylor on the “The sense of community.” Some said Griffith’s Andy Griffith Show” in the 1960s that gave Mayberry was too sanitised with none of the him a place in television history. The show strife generated by the anti-war and civil rights depicted life in the friendly, slow-moving protests of the time. In fact, there were no fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina, regular black characters on the show. “We which was widely believed to have been based tried in every way to get that to happen but we on Griffith’s own hometown, Mount Airy, in were unable to do it,” Griffith told USA Today in discussing Mayberry’s all-white that state. There was little crime to fight in Mayberry population. Griffith was born June 1, 1926, so the stories centered on the sheriff and his and had ambitions of being a preacher. At the interactions with the quirky townspeople. University of North Carolina, he earned a “The basic theme of our show was love,” degree in dramatic arts in 1949 and started Griffith said in a 2003 interview with CNN. performing in singing groups. Matlock was an American mystery legal “All the characters loved each other. And all the actors loved each other, too.” The show, a drama television series created by Dean situation comedy, was an entertaining Hargrove, the guy who created the similar diversion for viewers to the social and mystery drama series Perry Mason. (Reuters)
PAGE 33
Guyana commenced HCFC phase out to meet 2030 deadline Guyana on July 3, 2010 hosted its first address the issue. local National Stakeholders Meeting on the Dubrie pointed out that, “we are the phasing out of Hydrochlorofluorocarbons guardians of the planet” and as such all must (HCFC) under the Montreal Protocol. The work together hence the invitation of persons seminar was held at the Ministry of from both the public and private sector to Agriculture’s Boardroom and benefited from work toward the phasing-out of HCFCs which contributions by then Minister of Agriculture would be a lot more difficult than that of CFCs Robert Persaud, Chief Hydrometeorological since the burden was primarily on the air Officer (ag), Bhaleka Suelall, Artie Dubrie of the United Nations E n v i r o n m e n t Programme, among others. Guyana was slated for US$85,000 from United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) to develop and implement the HCFC Phase-Out A section of the participants who attended the seminar in 2010 Management Plan contributing to the conditioning and refrigeration industry. freezing of HCFC by 2013 and ultimately The Montreal Protocol on Substances that meeting total phase out of HCFC by 2030. deplete the Ozone Layer, is an international The Agriculture Minister had said at the time treaty designed to protect the Ozone Layer by that, “we are” living in an era of adverse phasing out the production of a number of effects of Climate Change and it is incumbent substances believed to be responsible for on all to play their part in addressing the issue. ozone depletion. Parties to this Protocol He said that the Phase-Out Programme was (including Guyana) agreed to set year 2013 as one of many initiatives being piloted to (Continued on page 35)
Egypt's first democratically election president ousted from office On July 3, 2013, Egyptian President, There were mixed international Mohamed Morsi, was removed from office reactions to the events. Most Arab leaders just a year after being the country’s first were generally supportive or neutral, with democratically elected president. In what the exception of Qatar and Tunisia who has been described as a coup d’etat, Egyptian strongly condemned the military’s actions. army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi led a The US avoided describing the action as a coalition to remove the President of Egypt, coup. Other states either condemned or from power and suspended the Egyptian expressed concern over the removal of constitution of 2012. The move came after the military’s ultimatum for the government to “resolve its d i ff e r e n c e s ” w i t h protestors during widespread national protests against the new government to address particular Former Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi woes highlighted in his first 100 days in office. The military arrested Morsi. And due to the regulations of the Morsi and Muslim Brotherhood leaders and African Union regarding the interruption of declared Chief Justice of the Supreme constitutional rule by a member state, Egypt Constitutional Court Adly Mansour as the was suspended from that union. There has i n t e r i m p r e s i d e n t o f E g y p t . T h e also been debate in the media regarding the a n n o u n c e m e n t w a s f o l l o w e d b y labelling of these events. It has been demonstrations and clashes between described by Western mainstream media as a supporters and opponents of the move coup or as a revolution by proponents. throughout Egypt. (Continued on page 35)
PAGE 34
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 35
‘Give us more or get out’
- protestors to oil companies
Drummers helping to energise the protestors at Houston By Davina Bagot The protest action, which is being spearheaded by the publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall, saw protestors this past week demanding that the oil companies give Guyana more value for its natural resource being extracted daily or “get lost” as an alternative. Every day for the past five weeks, protestors have been demanding changes in the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that the Government of Guyana entered into with Exxon. Among the miniscule terms accepted by the government was a mere two percent royalty on its sweet and light crude and a 50 percent profit share, after ExxonMobil deducts 75 percent of the total lifts for its expenses. Key provisions are also lacking in the agreement such as full coverage insurance for any mishaps offshore to cover any damage, and ringfencing to avoid the oil company from using the petroleum revenue in one field to cover for expenses in another. The lack of ring fencing provision can result in Guyana never seeing the returns it was promised, according to one international analyst, Tom Sanzillo. It is because of these reasons that the citizens joined forces to demand change from their leaders. In fact, the call for such changes is gaining momentum as a civil society body – Article 13 – has commenced its own protest action with plans to it countrywide in a bid to alert Guyanese of the unfair provisions in the oil contract. Lall’s protest, which was conducted randomly in the past at
different points in the city and for several weeks at the Square of the revolution, has for the past few weeks been held at Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYSBI) at Houston, East Bank Demerara. GYSBI provides support and logistic services to the oil companies operating here. On Wednesday last, there was d r u m m i n g t o e n e rg i s e t h e protestors who were also treated to a cool overcast sky. While some
waved their Golden Arrowhead in support of the call for a better deal, others held their placards calling out their leaders, while Lall danced from one end of the road to the other in a bid to get the support of p a s s e r s b y. S o m e d r i v e r s encouraged the protestors by honking their horns, and others even slowed down to offer remarks. The peaceful protestors displayed placards some of which stated: ‘Why should we carry Exxon on our backs’, ‘Parasites cannot do business here’, ‘Exxon is a known predator’, ‘Where are the books of this nation’ and ‘If you stand now your children will be comfortable’. Kaieteur News would have exposed that the PSA for the Stabroek Block is one of the world’s worst provisions when compared to 130 other deals in the world. For example, the PSA sees the government paying the contractor’s income tax out of the country’s share of the profits. However, none of the 130 PSAs examined shows this arrangement. Further, the PSA is the only one out of 130, which has very moderate work obligations for contractors who are vested with offshore licences. Additionally, the GuyanaExxonMobil PSA is the only one out of 130 contracts, which has no ring-fencing provisions to prevent costs of unsuccessful wells being carried over to that of successful wells. There is also no sliding scale for royalty to increase as production improves. And that is
Kaieteur News Publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall waves the Golden Arrowhead as he encourages passersby to join the protest for a better oil deal not all. Guyana’s PSA is the only one out of 130 in the world that allows insurance premiums to be
fully recovered as well as interest on loans and financing costs that are incurred by the contractors.
Guyana commenced HCFC... From page 33 the time to freeze the consumption and production of HCFCs. They agreed to start reducing its consumption and production in 2015. The HCFCs are interim CFCs replacements, used as refrigerants, solvents, blowing agents for plastic foam manufacture, and fire extinguishers. Initially, the Protocol set the deadline to phase out HCFCs in 2040 for developing countries including Guyana, at the 19th Meeting of Parties held in September 2007 in Montreal, the member countries agreed to accelerate the phase out date to 2030.
Egypt's first democratically... From page 33 Ensuing protests in favour of Morsi were violently suppressed culminating with the dispersal and massacre of pro-Morsi sit-ins on 14 August, 2013, amid ongoing unrest; journalists and several hundred protestors were killed by police and military force. Muslim Brotherhood members claim 2,600 people were killed. Human Rights Watch documented 904 deaths, describing it as crimes against humanity and “one of the world’s largest killings of demonstrators in a single day in recent history.” In 2019, the former president collapsed and died while on trial in a Cairo, six years after the military ousted him. His cause of death was reported as heart attack.
Protestors demanding that the oil companies “get out of Guyana”
PAGE 36
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
British High Commissioner named Honourary Rotarian
PAGE 37 RCGC President Cilandell Glen
…as Georgetown Central hosts 39th Installation ceremony
T
he British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, was inducted as a Honourary Rotarian as the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC) on Saturday, June 25, 2022, installed its 39th Board of Directors at a ceremony held at the Mirage Banquet Hall, Alberttown,
Georgetown. The Club’s new Leadership, which will be headed by President Cilandell Glen, will function during the Rotary year, July 2022 to June 2023. Other members of the New Board are President Elect - Peter Pompey, Vice President - Judy
British High Commissioner, Her Excellency Jane Miller, flanked by RCGC New Board Members
Semple-Joseph, Immediate Past President - Avia Maria Lindie, Secretary - Treina Butts, Treasurer Waheeda Ali, Club Administration Chair - Denisha Garraway, International/Rotary Foundation Chair - Asa Stewart, Membership Chair - Daniel Griffith, Service Projects Chair - Keisha Chung,
Vocational Service Chair – Michelle Howard, Youth Service Chair - Cherie Rampertab, Fundraiser Chair - Keon Howard, Public Image Chair - Lloyd David, and Sergeant-At-Arms - Ronald Robinson. Giving gratitude to God Almighty for health, strength and life to take up the mantle as President of the Club, President Cilandell, in her acceptance speech, also thanked Rotarians for giving her the opportunity to serve as leader of the “Prestigious Club”. Referring to the year 1998-1999 RI Theme – “Living your Rotary Dream”, the new President said she is elated to be living her rotary dream. The once Rotaract President, referred to Rotary as her family, alluding to the experiences, friendship, network and training gained from the organisation. Finally, President Cilandell took the opportunity to set the focus for the Club. She outlined, “For the new year, the Executive Board would be working diligently towards, reengaging, rebuilding and evolving the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central. As Rotarians, let us continue to build the legacy of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central by working together to serve and strengthen communities across Guyana.” Meanwhile, Immediate Past President (IPP) – Avia Maria Lindie expressed appreciation to Outgoing Board members for their support and good stewardship provided to the Club during the last year. IPP Avia took time to highlight the various projects undertaken by the Club in 2021 -2022, which included those related to Childhood Obesity, Hampers for the Holidays, Kimbia Project and the Harauruni
Girls Empowerment Project. Incoming Assistant District Governor Elizabeth Cox gave the charge to the Club for the new Rotary year. Among the many key initiatives, she highlighted the need for Rotary Clubs to adopt the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) Code of Conduct. Additionally, ADG Liz urged the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central to conduct at least one environmental project, even as she challenged Rotary Clubs in Guyana to fellowship and work collaboratively to create a greater impact across communities. Meanwhile, Assistant Governor, Renata Chuck-A-Sang advocated that the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central should begin to conduct more sustainable and impactful projects going forward, even as she provided commendations for projects completed. Finally, Her Excellency Jane Miller – British High Commissioner to Guyana, provided the Key Note Address at the Installation Ceremony. Sharing her wealth of experience, High Commissioner Miller focused her message on Service and Volunteerism. She encouraged Rotarians to value each other and to support the leadership, to be evidence based in their decisions and actions, and to ensure that they have fun while serving others. Chartered in 1983, the Club has been very vibrant as it engaged in voluntary service for almost four decades. During 2022-2023, it will join other Rotary Club across the globe to function and service communities under the new Rotary International theme: “Imagine Rotary”.
PAGE 38
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
THE
Siblings' relationship that turned deadly
Court Journal
a knife and stabbed his younger brother twice – one to his neck and the other to his chest. Shonnette Dover In May 2021, the 15-year-old relative of Shonnette Dover, who had reportedly confessed to Linden police that she assisted her sister's boyfriend, Shaquawn Alleyne –
By Renay Sambach
I
t is said that there is a unique love-hate relationship when it comes to siblings. Many siblings stick with each other through thick and thin, but this week, I will highlight matters where siblings' relationship turned deadly. Moses and Richard Anthony The first matter is that of Moses Anthony, who was allegedly killed by his brother during a brawl at their home which is located at Third Street, Alberttown, Georgetown. On March 14, 2022, Richard Anthony made his first court appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Richard was not charged for murder but was handed a manslaughter charge. He was not required to plead to the charge which stated that on March 10, 2022, he allegedly killed his brother with a piece of broken tile during a brawl at their home. According to reports, Richard reportedly killed his younger brother, Moses, a baker, around 21:00hrs on the day in question. It was stated that when cops arrived at the scene, Moses' bloodied body was found lying in an alleyway leading to their home. Before tragedy struck, Moses had been drinking and had reportedly arrived home “high”. It was reported that this caused him to start an argument with his brother over an old grievance they had. They subsequently began fighting in the house. It was described as a “cuff out”. During the fight, Richard reportedly found a piece of broken tile and stabbed Moses to his neck. The fight continued and they reportedly moved to the yard. When they stopped Moses reportedly walked out to the alleyway where he collapsed and died. Paul and Quincy Chase Another man charged for the death of his brother is Quincy Chase, 27, a security guard of Lot 34 Norton Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, who made his first court appearance in June 2021, for the murder of his younger brother. Quincy had appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleges that on June 25, 2021 at Cummings Street, Bourda, he murdered 24-year-old Paul Anthony Chase. According to reports, Quincy allegedly killed his younger brother at their mother's Cummings, Street, Georgetown residence. It was reported that the brothers
PAGE 43
Renay Sambach
Quincy Chase
Dead, Shonnette Dover
Still on the run, Shaquawn Alleyne
Dead: Cynthia Cozier would usually visit their mother to have breakfast. However, on the day of the incident, the two had a misunderstanding which escalated. Quincy's mother had reportedly confronted him about something to which he denied. This had angered the woman who left and went into her bedroom to make a call. While the woman was making the call, Quincy reportedly followed her into the room and
Lashena Morgow
Randy Cozier dealt her one blow to her left eye before leaving the room. As a result, an argument ensued between Paul and Quincy, during which Quincy armed himself with
Dead: Alex Morgow
who is still on the run – to bury her in his backyard, was charged with accessory after the fact of murder. The teen had appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Linden Magistrate Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The teen had allegedly confessed to accompanying Shaquawn to the residence of Shawn Alleyne, the fugitive's father, and informed him that Shaquawn had just shot Shonnette dead. The father then told them, “Don't tell (me) stupidness, why (you) playing with the gun?” They subsequently left on a motorcycle and collected a spade from a man and dug a hole aback the house, where they buried the dead young woman. The case is one that sent ripples through Linden ever since Dover had disappeared in April 2021, and tensions had risen since her body was discovered and Alleyne disappeared. Lashena and Alex Morgow In another matter, Lashena Morgow, 31, was charged in November 2020, for allegedly stabbing and killing her brother in a bid to protect her sister-in-law. Lashena was charged with manslaughter for the death of her brother, Alex Morgow, 20, of Parika Backdam, East Bank Essequibo. She had made her first court a p p e a r a n c e a t t h e Wa l e s Magistrate's Court before Principal Magistrate Faith
Dead, Paul Anthony Chase McGusty. According to police, Alex, a fisherman, was stabbed to death at around 17:45hrs on November 22, 2020. It was reported that Lashena committed the act in retaliation to her brother beating his commonlaw wife. The police had reported (Continued on page 45)
Dead, Moses Anthony
PAGE 44
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Lessons from a Lashpreneur !!! a Lashpreneur !!! Lessons from
Some of the biggest lash trends for 2022 By Latoya Zephyr Hey lash babes,last week we looked at some of the brow trends so this week let’s take a look at what some of the lash trends for 2022 are. The natural look… There’s been a rise in demand for bigger and bigger lash extensions of late. In the days of mandatory masks, it’s unsurprising that beauty looks became all about the eye area! Many now predict the that lips will be back in a big way,meaning that eyes will be emphasised in a still beautiful butless dramatic way. Many of the rising trends are dominated by lashes designed to have people questioning – are they or aren’t they real? Here are some of the natural look lash trends for 2022: Brown lashes After seeing an upsurge in popularity in lash competitions, brown lashes are likely to take greater prominence in 2022. Whether for classic lashes, hybrid or Russian volume, dark or light brown lashes are a great way to achieve an enviable flutter that will have your friends thinking you were simply blessed in the lash department. For a half-way house, ask your lash technician to blend black and brown lashes in your set. Lash lifts One sure-fire to get natural-looking lashes is to stick
to your natural lashes! If you’re tired of the constant cycle of infills that comes with committing to eyelash extensions, a lash lift is a lower maintenance approach. A lash lift lifts and curls your lashes, creating a beautiful open-eyed effect. It lasts 4-6 weeks and can be accompanied by a tint so you don’t even need mascara. Classic & hybrid lashes With more natural-looking lashes coming back to fashion, classic lashes are anticipated to be more in demand in 2022. This is where one false lash is applied to one natural lash, as opposed to a ‘fan’ of multiple lashes being applied (which is known as volume lashes). Next generation ‘flat lashes’ make for excellent retention. For those who find classic lashes too understated, hybrid lashes, which blend one-to-one lashes with volume fans make application quicker and can even be used for a more subtle take on the Kim K look if the lashlengths are mixed correctly. Men’s lash extensions Well, why should girls have all the fun? Guys’ beauty regimes have come a long way, incorporating much greater levels of skin and hair care, as well as make-up. So the next logical step is to get lash extensions to enhance those handsome eyes. This trend ties in very much
with the rise of brown lashes and J-curl lashes. Bring on the nude lashes! …and the not-so natural look The less is more look isn’t for everyone, so if you prefer your lashes with a whole lot of drama, never fear, there are plentyof trends that up the ante on the wow factor.
In general, expect straighter silhouettes such as L and M curl lashes to still be the hottest curl shapes, with a slight move away from super-rounded shapes like D curl lashes. Wispy lashes aka Kardashian Lash Design This trend is here to stay! Popularised by Kim
Kardashian, this textured look is characterised by volume lashes interspersed with spikes of longer lengths for a super feminine and glamorous look. In 2022, you can take the wispy look in one of two ways. Option 1 is to dial up the volume and the drama, with very full baseline lashes and even
longer wisps. Option 2 is to pare it back, with minimal all over lashes, letting the longer length spikes enhance your natural lashes. A twist on this is wet-look lashes, where multiple lashes are applied together, volume style, but they are not opened out into fans first.
E-Networks to air British Grand Prix today The E-Networks team will air the British Grand Prix today on E2. The British Grand Prix is a Grand Prix motor race
organised in the United Kingdom by the Royal Automobile Club. First held in 1926, the British Grand Prix has been
held annually since 1948 and has been a round of the FIA Formula One World Championship every year since 1950.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 45
==My Testimony==
Distractions aren’t meant to be permanent By Sharmain Grainger
A
distraction, as you may well be aware, is anything that diverts your attention from something else. As such, distractions could be individuals, situations, things or even thoughts that vie for your attention while you are trying to be otherwise engaged. We have all experienced bouts of distraction, at varying levels, but today, my aim is to tell you about those distractions, that if left unchecked, could shift you so far away from your true self that you become unrecognisable – not only to others but even yourself. Of course, the media – especially social media – have content these days that can easily sway just about any unstable person into a direction that he or she need not be. Speaking for myself, I can admit today that I once was swayed by far too many distractions that seemed bent on altering my very existence. But before that intrusion, I was convinced that I was a tough and impenetrable being. In fact, I had even assumed at one point that I didn’t care too much about what people thought of me. Turns out, I confess, I did care very much about what people thought of me, and this drove me, over the years, to repeatedly try to reinvent myself. This, sadly, ushered me into a disturbing phase from which I can safely say I have managed to escape. Distractions in my life were allowed to morph to such disturbing levels that even I thought there was no hope for my redemption.Among the distractions that unrelentingly vied for my attention for many years was self-image. Self-image is said to be the personal view, or mental picture that we have of ourselves. It became an even greater burden when persons, on multiple occasions, made me feel like I wasn’t good enough. When someone tells you, for instance, that you shouldn’t wear your own hair to attend a formal event and you need to do this or that to improve your appearance, that, I have found, can scar you mentally and without you even realising it at the time. There were other hints, some more subtle than others, that made me believe that my God-given composition was not good enough. Today, I understand clearly why many people believe they can carve a better version of themselves by living under the surgical knife. Thankfully,
because of a ‘thorn in my flesh’ (which I will tell you about at a later date), I never even considered such a move. Without that hindrance, I am certain I too would’ve joined the droves who have sought to remedy God’s handiwork. My belief that I wasn’t good enough became so deeply lodged in my prefrontal cortex that each time I looked into a mirror, I saw a hideous image, who I was determined to banish in hopes of appearing pleasing to the eye. Before long, I became a pro at being a people pleaser and hardly g a v e thought to who I was meant to be. In fact, I found m a n y reasons to justify why I shouldn’t even try to be myself anymore, and many I believe were quite plausible. But as suddenly as it overcame me, the spell of desperately trying to be someone else was one day broken. It followed an emotional encounter with someone who I realised needed a real friend and, in my former state, I couldn’t dare assume I could fit that mould. Convinced that I needed to be that person’s friend, I made the hard decision of choosing to be my true self. And yes, it was hard! Once the decision was made, I quickly realised that I couldn’t do it on my own, but I knew exactly what I needed to do. It took a great deal of courage to start but the minute I enlisted God’s help, the process became easier. It was simply having faith that once I put the effort in, the Almighty One would enable me to keep going. I’m still on the journey to fully embracing my true self but I’ve never been a happier camper in this game of life. What I can assure you, without fear of contradiction, is that in order to find the real you, divine intervention is imperative, not a mere option. While in your own strength, you may achieve much and believe that you have made an impact in this world, you will no doubt find that true satisfaction is lacking. Once you find your true self in Jesus, satisfaction is felt and this comes with a divine peace that passes all understanding. With God’s help, I was able to find and understand the biblical scripture, Ephesians 2:10, “For we are God’s workmanship,
created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (NIV) This in essence tells me that we exist for a much greater purpose – not
merely to spruce up the outward appearance for the pleasure of mankind, but to do God’s work and, according to Psalm 37:4, if I delight myself in the Lord, He will give me the desires of my heart, and true to form He has proven that His word is TRUTH. As part of overcoming my self-image issues, I have embraced the truth of Psalm 139:14 that I was remarkably and wondrously made, and this is true about you as well. I can safely say today that the majority of my distractions are no more and because of the daily revelations, I am furnished with through prayer and reading the bible, there is NO ONE who can dare tell me that I am not good enough. At this juncture, I’m unmoved by what people think of me; all that matters is what God thinks of me. Finally, I feel free to live my purpose – which is to tell others, including my new friend, about the goodness of God. By sharing this concise version of my struggle that spanned years, it is my hope that you too will come to the realisation that there is hope beyond the scope of human limitations. You only need to choose God as your source of help rather than embrace the distractions that daily present themselves aiming to thwart your focus from your
Sharmain Grainger
purp ose. Why not choose to live your Godintended purpose today? According to Isaiah 41:13 you don’t have to do alone, “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.” I assure you, He will help you. I leave you with this wonderful YouVersion prayer, which I came across recently. I hope it inspires you to be your true self too. God, thank You for loving me.
Yo u see me as I truly am, and You still accept me! Today, I bring all my false labels and names to You. You know what I’ve been called, and what I’ve believed about myself. Please replace any false narratives with Your truth: that I am Your child, and greatly loved by You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. If you need help just follow the instructions of Matthew 7:7: “Ask and keep on asking and it will be given to you; seek and keep on seeking and you will find; knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you.” [Amplified]
Siblings' relationship that turned deadly... From page 43 that Alex's wife and his sister had gone to the Parika market earlier that day to do some shopping. On the way back, they stopped at a friend's house, where they began imbibing Guinness. The women had reportedly spent two hours there before heading home. However, upon their arrival, Alex confronted his wife about a meal she had prepared for him. There was an argument and Alex reportedly shoved his wife to the ground and dealt her several kicks. This had caused Lashena to scold her brother, who told her to stay out. Lashena then allegedly headed to the kitchen, returned with a knife and stabbed him to the region of the heart during a confrontation. Alex collapsed and later died. Randy and Cynthia Cozier The final matter I will highlight is that of Randy Cozier who was charged in July 2019 for
the murder of his sister. Randy of Moruca, Region O n e , B a r i m a - Wa i n i , h a d appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which stated that on July 4, 2019, at Moruca, North West District, he murdered Cynthia Cozier, his sister. According to reports, on the day in question, Randy and his sister had an argument after the woman asked him to desist from threatening his other siblings. It was reported that during that argument, Randy became annoyed and armed himself with two cutlasses and dealt his sister several chops to her neck and other parts of her body. Another sister, Beverly Cozier, who attempted to save her sister, was also chopped several times about her body. During the altercation, a baby was also wounded.
PAGE 46
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Stroke recovery: How an existing drug may help the brain repair itself Dr. Andrea Tedeschi, assistant professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Ohio State University Medical Center, explained to Medical News Today why the concept of “brain plasticity” is so important when it comes to understanding brain health: “‘Brain plasticity’ refers to the innate, or intrinsic, ability to compensate for a lack of functioning areas by, in principle, rewiring spare areas of the nervous system. And it’s something that is really amazing if you think about it because it allows us to repair the nervous system under certain conditions.” Dr. Tedeschi is the corresponding author of a new study in mice that investigates the use of an existing drug to help the brain repair itself after an ischemic strokeTrusted Source. The study found that administering gabapentin, an anticonvulsive medication, soon after a stroke helps the brain more effectively work around damaged areas. D r. Te d e s c h i e x plained: “I think that the way
that the drug is [commonly] being prescribed, it’s to deal with the consequences of […] maladaptive changes [that] are now intrinsically wired into the system. So prescribing the drug if [the patients] have some sort of pain or [problematic] excitability of a certain part of the brain […] it’s not going to wipe [it] out.” By contrast, “[t]he way we intend to use it,” Dr. Tedeschi said, “it’s more or less as a prophylactic type of drug.” “Administering this class of drugs in an earlier phase, when the system has not yet committed to a maladaptive route, then I think it’s really increasing the chances of something that we call an adaptive response.” The study appears in BRAIN. Suppressing excitability Gabapentin blocks two proteins, alpha-2 delta-1 and alpha-2 delta-2. Unchecked, these two proteins normally increase after an event such as a stroke or brain injury, inhibiting the brain’s ability to re-route lost function.
According to previous research by the same team, gabapentin blockade of alpha2 delta-1 and alpha-2 delta-2 can prevent their normal inhibitory function, effectively lifting the brakes and enabling nerves to grow and regenerate lost function. The brain “needs these subunits to be there,” said Dr. Tedeschi, but after a stroke, “they’re setting up the stage to create more excitability across the large area of the neural network and this contributes to the establishment of detrimental conditions.” “Most of the time,” he said, “what we see is that under conditions where there is some form of plasticity, excitability of networks tends to be suppressed.” When a neuron is hyperexcitable, it responds to a lower-than-normal stimulus threshold. Dr. Tedeschi provided an example: “If you put your hands on a hard surface, you’re not supposed to feel pain because you feel like there is a hard surface under your hand. If somehow the
signal now is miswired and there is hyperexcitability of the group of neurons that are controlling this mechanical sensation, this information is perceived as a painful stimulus.” “When there is out-ofcontrol neuronal excitability, then these neurons will respond to a very light, very low threshold input and that can cause muscle contraction even when you don’t want it,” said Dr. Tedeschi. Spontaneous seizures, pain, and muscle spasms are causally linked to hyperexcitability. Sensory-motor strokes in mouse models The researchers induced ischemal stroke changes in the sensory-motor cortex of male and female mice using a photothrombotic stroke techniqueTrusted Source. For the mice in the 6-week study who received daily gabapentin, the researches saw a significant recovery of motor control by the end of the study period. Encouragingly, 2 weeks after treatment with gabapentin ceased, the mice retained that degree of im-
provement. The untreated mice did not recover motor control to the same extent. As to whether the recovery of this degree of motor control was the extent of improvement mice may experience after gabapentin, Dr. Tedeschi noted with optimism: “Yeah, certainly there’s going to be more beneficial effect than what we discover. And this is actually a work in progress. We are trying to dig deeper, and on a daily basis, we are actually discovering new things. This is something that unfortunately, I’m not allowed to discuss, but certainly, there are going to be follow-up studies. Pretty much like every week, we learn new things about the action of these drugs.” Much more to investigate Not all of gabapentin’s effects are positive, Dr. Tedeschi cautioned, meaning that there will likely be situations in which gabapentin would not be indicated. Dr. Michael W. O’Dell, professor of clinical rehabilitation medicine at Weill
Cornell Medicine in New York City, who was not involved in the study, told MNT: “There are always limitations in translating basic science, animal studies to humans, but in so much as this is a well-conducted study it does provide additional insights into the potential of pharmacological enhancement of brain plasticity in humans following stroke.” “It should be pointed out, however, that in practice, in well-designed, larger clinical trials, there has not been a great deal of success in this area,” he noted. “From a clinical standpoint,” Dr. O’Dell, added, “the fact that gabapentin is a widely available, inexpensive, and relative safe drug is an encouraging aspect of this study should the finding translate to any degree to a human population.” ( h t t p s : / / www.medicalnewstoday.com/ articles/stroke-recoveryhow-an-existing-drug-mayhelp-the-brain-repairitself#Much-more-to-investigate)
Breakfast really the most important meal of the day
B
reakfast literally means “to break the fast.” It is the first meal of the day after a stretch of not eating overnight. Breakfast earned its title as the most important meal of the day back in the 1960s after American nutritionist Adelle Davis suggested that to keep fit and avoid obesity, one should “eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper.” Though around 15% of people in the United States regularly skip breakfast, many still believe it to be the most important meal of the day. Breakfast provides the body with important nutrients, to start the day feeling energized and nourished. Many also believe that it can promote weight loss. But is breakfast really the most important meal of the day? As with most things in nutrition, the answer is complex. While some research suggests that skipping breakfast is not harmful, other research suggests otherwise. Eating regular meals and snacks, including breakfast, allows for more opportunities throughout the day to give
the body the energy and nutrients it needs to function optimally. However, as long as a person can fit their nutrients in during other meals, breakfast may not be the most critical meal of the day. Here is what the science says. Evidence in support of eating breakfast Most of the claimed benefits of eating breakfast are primarily derived from observational studies, which cannot prove cause and effect. For example, one 2021 systematic reviewTrusted Source of 14 observational studies found that those who eat breakfast seven times per week have a reduced risk for: · heart disease · diabetes · obesity · high blood pressure · stroke · abdominal obesity · cardiovascular-related death · elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Again, this particular group of studies can only suggest that those who eat breakfast are more likely to
have a reduced risk for the cardiovascular and metabolic diseases mentioned above. It cannot prove that breakfast is what is causing it. However, an analysis of data on over 30,000 North Americans shows that people who skip breakfast may miss out on important nutrients. The most common nutrients those who skipped breakfast fell short on include: · folate · calcium · iron · vitamin A · vitamins B1, B2, B3 · vitamin C · vitamin D. What is more, one randomized control trial published in 2017 that included 18 participants with type 2 diabetes, and 18 healthy participants found that skipping breakfast caused disrupted circadian rhythmsTrusted Source in both groups. Those who skipped breakfast also experienced larger spikes in blood glucose levels after eating. The authors of the study thus suggested that eating breakfast is vital for keeping our internal clock running on time.
Does skipping breakfast cause weight gain? Although many people report increased feelings of satiety after starting their day off with breakfast, studiesTrusted Source suggest that those who omit or consume breakfast both end up with nearly identical total daily calorie intakes. Another randomized control trialTrusted Source carried out over 4 months tested the effectiveness of a recommendation to eat or skip breakfast on weight loss in 309 adults with overweight or obesity trying to lose weight in a freeliving setting. At the end of the study, researchers concluded that eating breakfast did not have any significant impact on weight loss compared with not eating breakfast. According to a 2019 review of 13 randomized control trials published in The BMJTrusted Source, the addition of breakfast may not be a good weight loss strategy. Researchers further added that caution should be used when recommending breakfast for weight loss because it may actually have the opposite effect. However, it is
important to note that this review did have limitations. The types of foods consumed were not included, and the studies were not very long in duration. Additionally, researchers cited the need for additional studies to determine the longterm effects of skipping breakfast. Interestingly, another study found that skipping breakfast may actually lower total daily calorie intake by 252 calories. Researchers did note, however, that it decreased the overall diet quality when any meals were skipped. At this time, there does not appear to be any strong evidence that ties breakfast intake to weight gain. Are people who eat breakfast healthier? According to one 2018 observational studyTrusted Source, those who frequently eat breakfast often pay more attention to their overall nutrient intake, regularly participate in physical activity, and adequately manage stress. Conversely, those who skip breakfast tend to have unhealthier lifestyle habits such as frequent smoking and drinking. They also tend to have diets higher in fat, cholesterol, and calories than ha-
bitual breakfast eaters. These findings suggest that lifestyle habits may contribute to the overall health status of breakfast eaters, not eating breakfast. Should you eat breakfast? Because breakfast gives us the opportunity to fuel our body with nutrients, it is an important meal. However, according to recent studies, it may not be the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast and listening to your hunger cues is very important if you wake up hungry in the morning. However, if you get busy and skip breakfast one day, there is no need to feel guilty. If you habitually skip breakfast, it is important to ensure you are optimizing your nutrient intake at other meals. Certain groups of people, such as fitness professionals or athletes who train early in the morning, may also feel better after eating breakfast. The bottom line Although research suggests that breakfast may not be the most important meal of the day, it is still important. It serves as an opportunity to help you fuel your day and provide key nutrients that your body needs.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
By Zena Henry he advice here is not professional, but it works. Even before the pandemic, I enjoyed gardening and still do. But it is much easier to put your hobby in motion when you're not swamped with tasks that provide very little time to do the things you love. But in this case, we are looking at gardening, the maintenance of your very own kitchen garden, not just as a hobby or an activity to enjoy and pass the time, but as a means of lessening the load on pockets and helping to stretch a dollar further given the global catastrophe caused by the COVID -19 pandemic and now, the Russian war on Ukraine where the two power house producers of items such as grains, can no longer deliver its goods to the world on the scale that they used to. Small countries like Guyana are told to brace for high prices, which we have been experiencing for almost two years now. The United Nations for instance, is warning if the current situation persists, millions of people around the world will go hungry and many will starve to death with extremely poor countries in Africa, the Middle East and even in the west, being most at risk. Alarms have already gone off with reports highlighting the difficulty some countries are facing in getting food to its people. Even here in the Caribbean, leaders said they could not buy food from overseas just a short time back even when they had money in hand to pay for it. The Coven has nonetheless highlighted the need for sanity and resilience at this time; understanding the situation and finding ways to address it. Regardless of the situation, one's response to same is where all the power of the individual lies. So, any situation could be addressed with the right tools. What then are the right tools given the current situation that we are faced with? One does not have to be poor to start their own kitchen garden. In our contemporary lifestyles, we love knowing that we can go to the supermarket, pick up a basket and get everything already cleaned, packaged, even chopped and diced and
T
PAGE 47
Making the most of that small gardening space “pot ready” out of the package. For some of us, the extra couple dollars don't matter because it lessens the preparation time. The question today is how many of us can still speak like that? I sure can't. The pandemic has hit so hard that my dollars must be spent with much prudence right now. And this is me who has basically just me to look after. I can only imagine what the parents, especially single ones with four and five children must face when it's time to provide for their young ones. I must reiterate that if gardening could be
my kitchen garden, my aim was to produce as much as I could, especially since I enjoyed sharing my surplus with others and we sometimes traded. My bed rows were not small, because I wanted them to hold more plants since I found that the rain would wash off the top soil from my smaller beds way too much. At the time, I hadn't seen it as a waste of space but looking at the technique closer, the singlerow method does kind of waste space. I later learnt that this method is part of what is c a l l e d
among some of the exciting farming techniques that I have come across. It is so creative, space efficient and offers such ease on the back from having to bend over to tend to the crops on the ground. When the space on the ground is used up, then it is time to go up. Before we go into other crops, let's deal with vining plants such as cucumbers, beans, peas, squash and passion fruit immediately. They grow easily on trellises or fences, which can be made of anythi
thi s is not our focus, we are looking to save cash, so gardening in containers is the technique most likely to complement your vertical garden. Of course, we have seen plants growing in an old bucket or an old cut out plastic bottle has the tomatoes or pepper tree. Now imagine those same containers secured to a wall or placed on improvised outdoor shelves made for that
A simple vertical vegetable garden from big plastic water bottles – using both the container and vertical method.
done as a hobby for some, it could be done by persons whose jobs it is to put food on the table since that garden could be the difference between the number of nights the family goes hungry, and the number of nights food is just a pick away. At the time when my kitchen garden took up a large amount of my time, I lived out of town. I was employing some gardening techniques in my routine that I didn't even know had official descriptions and were actual techniques applied in the growing process. It just seemed right, and I applied them. In this week's column, as promised, we will look at some of the planting techniques to help grow your own food and cut the household food bill. Last week, we looked at composting; a cool easy way of creating rich organic fertiliser for your kitchen garden from the organic scraps and other waste coming out of the home and environment. Kitchen gardens in small spaces can work. When I kept
intensive gardening where farmers will plant rows with two or three plants side-by-side to create one wide double or triple row. Wide rows allow plants to grow densely and crowd out weeds, it also allow for more vegetables to be grown in less space, and it allow plants to mingle, creating shade on the soil to keep it cooler and reduce evaporation. Using this garden layout to maximise space, would then allow for the gardening method called interplanting or intercropping. Again, this helps with efficiently using space. The idea is to plant fast-growing vegetables among slowergrowing ones so that the faster growing crop is harvested before it begins to crowd the slow ones. Lowgrowing crops that need shade can be planted among taller growing ones. For example, lettuce and parsley could be grown under tall crops like tomatoes and peppers. The shorter plants will not get excess sunlight but just that which the taller ones let filter through. Vertical Gardening is
Some of the wonderful sun-kissed vegetables that are now painfully expensive at the markets
w ill offer is to grow the crops with large yields. That is important so extra money could be earned from selling your surplus, if you choose. If you are considering adding some income from your labour, by all means get the larger yielding crops. We i n G u y a n a a r e fortunate to have our fair share of sun and rain and it is basically ideal for planting the crops we need. So here are some crops to consider for your new kitchen garden; tomatoes,
Two tomatoes trees are planted side-by-side in this wide row example.
ng, even a couple of sticks set in the ground is good enough for the vines to make their home. In terms of other produce, vertical farming is a bit more complex and could call for a lot more money depending on the set up. For example, some vertical gardens are indoor controlled set ups with a mechanised system providing the plant with water and nutrients based on the apparatus' design. But
specific purpose. There are different types of vertical setups that are cheap. More research could be done on this to help determine which is right for your garden. Containers are however a big solution for gardeners with limited space as large containers could be used to grow various crops; short or tall, leafy or not. Another piece of advice the Coven
p eppers, shallot (scallion), eggplant, bora, cucumbers, squash, lettuce, kale, pumpkin (maybe depending on space as pumpkin vines can really spread), corn, spinach, pak choy, thyme, broad leaf thyme, celery, cabbage, okra, corilla (bitter melon) and any other crop that can fit in your kitchen garden.
PAGE 48
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 49
Health Facts E-cigarettes or vaping; it's not as safe as you think! T
he additive allure of tobacco products is evident as nearly seven out of 10 smokers say they want to stop but can't seem to kick the unhealthy habit. A research paper released by the US-based John Hopkins School of Medicine seeks to explain why this is so. Both e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes contain nicotine, which research suggests may be as addictive as heroin and cocaine. What's worse, Michael Blaha, M.D., M.P.H., director of clinical research at the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease says many e-cigarette users get even more nicotine than they would from a combustible tobacco product: Users can buy extra-strength cartridges, which have a higher concentration of nicotine, or increase the e-cigarette's voltage to get a greater hit of the substance. And although they've been promoted as an aid to help you quit smoking, a recent study found that most people who intended to use ecigarettes to kick the nicotine habit ended up continuing to use traditional e-cigarettes.
ENTICING A NEW GENERATION Among youth, e-cigarettes, especially the disposable kind, are more popular than any traditional tobacco product. According to the 2021 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than two million U.S. middle and high school students reported using e-cigarettes in 2021, with more than eight in 10 of those youth using flavoured e-cigarettes. According to Blaha, there are three reasons e-cigarettes may be particularly enticing to young people. First, many teens believe vaping is less harmful than smoking. Second, e-cigarettes have a lower per-user cost than traditional cigarettes. Finally, youths and adults find the lack of smoke appealing. With no smell, ecigarettes reduce some of the stigmas of smoking. “What I find most concerning about the rise of vaping is that people who would've never smoked otherwise, especially youth, are taking up the habit,” says Blaha. “It's one thing if you convert from cigarette smoking to vaping. It's quite another thing to start up nicotine use with vaping. And,
getting hooked on nicotine often leads to using traditional tobacco products down the road.” Vaping is less harmful than smoking, but it's still not safe. E-cigarettes heat nicotine (extracted from tobacco), flavourings and other chemicals to create an aerosol that you inhale. Regular tobacco cigarettes contain 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic. While we don't know exactly what chemicals are in ecigarettes, Blaha says, “There's almost no doubt that vaping exposes you to fewer toxic chemicals than smoking traditional cigarettes.” Research from The Johns Hopkins University on vape ingredients published in October 2021 r e v e a l s thousands of chemical ingredients in vape products, most of which are not yet identified. Among those the team could
identify were several potentially harmful substances, including caffeine, three chemicals never previously found in e-cigarettes, a pesticide, and two flavourings linked with possible toxic effects and respiratory irritation. Research suggests vaping is bad for your heart and lungs. Nicotine is the primary agent in regular cigarettes and e-cigarettes, and it is highly addictive. It causes you to crave a smoke and suffer withdrawal symptoms if you ignore the craving. Nicotine is a toxic substance. It raises your blood pressure and spikes your adrenaline, which increases your heart rate and the likelihood of having a heart attack.
Is vaping bad for you? There are many unknowns about vaping, including what chemicals make up the vapour and how they affect physical health over the long term. “People need to understand that ecigarettes are potentially dangerous to your health,” says Blaha. “Emerging data suggests links to chronic lung disease and asthma, as well as associations between dual use of e-cigarettes and smoking with cardiovascular disease. So chances are, you're exposing yourself to all kinds of chemicals that we don't yet understand and that are probably not safe,” Blaha said. (Source: John Hopkins School of Medicine)
PAGE 50
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Berbice Humanitarian Mission continues quest to empower powerless From page 41 students who were women from Canje, Stanleytown and other areas and they started to take up this trade…these are skills trade, it is money and there is nothing less for a woman to be equal to a man,” he asserted. Surgim said too that many of the persons who access the skills training at the mission have gone on to make something of themselves and contribute to the home financially. “I know that in this region, jobs are not here, there are a lot of students who finish high school with 12 or 13 subjects and can’t get no jobs, everybody is at home. How much can we do?” questioned Sugrim. Moreover, he went on to share that it was an intentional move
started making money. So while she went to high school, she left with two diplomas.” He believes that such a system, with focused support, can be adopted and yield successful outcomes in Guyana. “I strongly suggest that it should be implemented here because teachers would call from public schools from time to time and ask what we are offering here. They tell us that they have some students that are physically good with their hands and we identify that skills will do well for these students right now. Trade men, journeymen, make as much as a doctor and an attorney,” Sugrim said. The mission in the past has assisted persons who were eager to start up their own
A cooking class in session when he decided to craft a path for individuals to begin working for themselves rather than have them sit and wait on government to hire them. During several engagements with the Chief Education Officer of the Ministry of Education, Sugrim said that he spoke of the need for more vocational training, using his daughter as an example. Sugrim said that his daughter attended half-day of the regular schooling and the other half-day vocationaltechnical training. He said that when she graduated from high school and “could not find a job, she turned to her tech skills and
business by providing an interest-free loan and those persons were given the opportunity to repay when it was possible with the view of having a revolving fund to help others similarly. Sugrim said he is hoping to lend even more assistance by providing scholarships to persons in the future. The humanitarian said he is now more focused than ever on assisting those with disabilities and mentioned that since the establishment of the building, over 3000 persons have been enrolled and empowered. There is no age limit and persons from anywhere can sign up, he said.
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 51
PAGE 52
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 53
Sunday July 03, 2022 A new business is expected to be housed here.
VILLAGE
BELVEDERE VILLAGE
From page 24 a success and it has become a success because we had relocated it to a bigger venue,” he related with pride. A few doors from the Matadeens’ business place is the residence of 64-year-old Jewan Abbensetts. During The Waterfalls' visit, he was relaxing in his wooden swing under his home. According to the man, he has been living in the village since 1978 with his wife, who because of ill health passed away about a month ago. Abbensetts said that the house in which he lives was acquired by his father who migrated. He said that when he got married he and his wife moved into it. He mentioned that he did many odd jobs but in 1982, he was hired at the estate and worked there until he reached the age of retirement. He is now collecting a pension but said he enjoyed working in various
Resident, Jewan Abbensetts who has worked at the estate for a number of years.
capacities at the estate – including in the factory and as a security guard. He described his village as “a nice and quiet area” which has been seeing many new faces and businesses as the years go by. Over at Belvedere North, a barber, Dinesh Deoprashad, who is also attached to the estate, said that he has been cutting hair for about 13 years now and does it when he is not working at the estate. He said people from within the community, and others as well,
come to his shop to have their hair cut and eyebrows lined. The young man, who takes pride in what he does, said that he enjoys his craft since he gets to meet different people. “Everywhere you go got a different blend of people, it got good people, it got bad people, but everybody lives well,” s a i d Deoprashad,
a father of three, who says that he plans on expanding his business. But while the community and its people live in harmony, he noted that the drains need cleaning, a task the Neighbourhood Democratic Council undertakes with alacrity when government officials signal
their plans to visit. Several streets are currently in a deplorable state and these, according to residents, have been neglected for several years. They are nevertheless optimistic that more attention will be paid to their community in the near future.
PAGE 54
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 55
PAGE 56
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
==GNBS IN FOCUS== CARICOM STANDARDS – SPECIFY CRUCIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REGIONAL TRADE OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES As Guyana and other CARICOM Member States prepare to celebrate 49 years since the birth of CARICOM, we must appreciate the inroads made to ensure the movement of products in the region, particularly as it relates to the development and use of standards in the determination and acceptance of quality of imports and exports. Article 67 of the Treaty of Chaguaramas requires that the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), in collaboration with competent agencies, develop a standardisation programme consistent with the international obligations of Member States. The programme objectives include trade facilitation, enhanced efficiency in the production, delivery of goods and services, and protection of consumers and the environment. The CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) was established two decades ago in 2002 with the aim to promote efficiency and the competitive production of goods and services, through t h e p r o c e s s o f Standardisation and the verification of quality across the Region. Pivotal to CROSQ's functions is facilitating the development of Regional Standards.
CROSQ as the Standardisation Arm of CARICOM is comprised of National Standards Bodies (NSBs) from each of the fifteen (15) member states, such as the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), the Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) and the Bureau of Standards of Jamaica (BSJ). The CROSQ Council approves all Regional Standards, and this approval is ratified by the Council of Trade and Economic Development (COTED). Member States like Guyana adopt Regional Standards as National Standards, which are used for trade, regulatory purposes and as industry guides for product, service, and process quality. Currently, there are approximately 40 Regional Standards available for businesses to implement to demonstrate that their products and services satisfy requirements for cross border trade within CARICOM. These include standards for biscuits, brewery products, coconut oils, coconut water, tobacco products, gold articles, a c h a r, c a s s a v a b r e a d , cosmetics, honey, furniture and the grading of mangoes, peppers, oranges, pineapples, and table eggs. The list of CARICOM Regional Standards covers a
wide range of locally produced products which can access many regional markets once in conformance to specified requirements. Developing and implementing Regional Standards that are recognised by all Member States help to reduce the incidence of standards and regulations being used as barriers to trade. This means well for the implementation of the WTO (World Trade Organisation) Agreement, which was signed by most Member States of CARICOM. Additionally, the easy flow of standard compliant goods and services around the regions provides a sense of pride and confidence in what Member States are able to offer each other while at the same time allowing their economies to maximise the benefits of inter-regional trade. Finally, as we prepare to celebrate CARICOM Day tomorrow, Monday July 4, let us all focus on the positive outcomes of CARICOM including strides made in the areas of Regional Standardisation and Trade. We should all be proud. We are CARICOM! For further information on this subject, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0064 or 2190065 or WhatsApp us on 692-4627.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
==CONSUMER CONCERNS== REFLECTIONS ON AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY By Pat Dial To d a y ' s C o n s u m e r Concerns was faced with the dilemma of focusing either on the Independence Day of the United States which is celebrated tomorrow, 4th July, or on CARICOM DAY which is being celebrated the same day (this year) as well. Both anniversaries are important to Guyana. CARICOM, with its support for Democracy in Guyana, its offer to Guyana to supply its lucrative food market and the close relationships which have grown up among the leaders have engaged more attention of the media over the last several months than the United States. We will therefore focus on the United States. At the end of the Seven Years War (1756 -1763), Britain had won control of the whole of the North American continent after the French had ceded Quebec. The War had been very costly and the British Exchequer tried to raise money by new forms of taxation and even extended their tax net to the English colonies in America. Tw o o f t h e s e t a x e s particularly annoyed the colonists - The Stamp Act whereby revenue stamps had to be appended to legal documents and a tax on tea. The colonists began to oppose these taxes with the cry "No taxation without representation" and eventually this led to clashes between the colonial militias and the British army. The first such clash occurred at Bunker's Hill in Boston and thereafter escalated until the battle of Yorktown in 1781 when the American army led by General George Washington defeated Lord Cornwallis thus ending the war. 1n 1783, the British formally recognised American Independence. We will not go into the details of the war but only to point out that it was a civil war far less bitter than the American Civil War of the 1850's. In the Independence War, a large section of the American population wished to remain in the British Empire and tens of thousands emigrated from the new Republic and settled in Canada which had remained British. In Britain, a large section of the population sympathised with the colonists and it was difficult to enlist soldiers so the British Army had to use
German mercenaries. In fact, the use of foreign troops was one of the reasons the Revolutionaries gave for their declaration of Independence. The newly established Republic called its citizens "Americans" which was the term used by the British to describe all white colonials, irrespective of the colony from which they came. The new Republic maintained all the colonial institutions: They jealously maintained the English language; they kept the English Common Law and they adopted the 18th century Constitution of England as Montesquieu, the French Philosophe, accurately described it. They kept the social and educational institutions they shared with the Mother Country. For example, Harvard University was modelled after Emmanuel College of Cambridge from which John Harvard came. Most of the Revolutionaries were Freemasons and General Washington and Lord Cornwallis were both Freemasons. Indeed Washington, as President, had his Masonic Lodge lay the foundations of the Capitol and the American dollar note has several Masonic symbols. Pre-Independence America, as part of the British Empire, shared close relations with the Caribbean. Many of the American upper classes holidayed in the Caribbean and Barbados was a favourite island. There was much trade but during the War of Independence, trade was disrupted and the West Indies suffered great hardships from lack of food imports and other goods. There was also always movement of people between America and the West Indies; for example, Alexander Hamilton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and the new Republic's Finance Minister was a West Indian from the small island of Bequia. In the 19th century, relations became less close than they were in the 18th century but in the 20th century close relations between the USA and Guyana and the rest of the Caribbean were resuscitated. More trade came about and a steady stream of West Indians settled in America. In World War II, thousands of American servicemen were stationed in the Caribbean. In Guyana, for instance, they
built its first International Airport at Atkinson, later Timheri/Cheddi Jagan. During this period, American culture became pervasive. From the 1960's and especially in the 1970's and 1980's thousands of Guyanese fleeing dictatorial government, increasing crime and severe shortages of food and consumer goods found refuge in the USA, especially in the New York area and made their contributions to American life. American developmental Aid was an important feature of GuyanaAmerica relations. Guyana-America relations have been immensely strengthened with the massive investment by Exxon in the Oil Industry, the revenues of which are laying the foundations of transforming Guyana into a First World-type country. Even more important, US foreign policy appears to be committed to establishing and maintaining the Americas as a zone of Democracy just as the Munroe Doctrine did in the 19th century in respect to Colonialism. This was manifested in Guyana's recent history where the US took the lead in institutionalising Democracy and Democratic values and the Caribbean and the wider world applauded. In this process, the American Ambassador, Madame Sarah Ann Lynch played an extraordinary role and stands out as one of the most distinguished Ambassadors who had served in Guyana. Guyana is the only English-speaking country in a sea of Latin-speakers and shares with the USA numerous historical and cultural commonalities and the two countries should develop a Special Relationship analagous to Israel which is in the heart of an Arab-speaking region. The world is rapidly changing into a multi polar world with the rise of China and it is in Guyana's interest to partner with US and Britain in the emerging new World Order. All Guyana wish America a Happy Birthday and pray that this bastion of Democracy and Freedom continue to grow in strength and prosperity. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
PAGE 57
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 63
Kaieteur News
$58M estimated to clear alignment between Timehri and Bartica Continuing works on the clearing of the alignment between Timehri (Region Four) and Sand Hills (Region Seven), $58 million is now estimated to complete phase two of the job.
This is according to the latest opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office. It was revealed that 10 contractors have bid for the Ministry of
Ministry of Public Works Lot 4: Alignment clearing of Timehri to Sand Hills (Region Seven) road link (Phase two)
Public Works project. As re- mute between the hinterland ported in the media, the cut- and the coast. Upon completing of the alignment will pave tion, no longer will persons the way for the new road that have to travel to Linden, then the government is looking to to Rockstone, through to construct to connect the two Sherima Crossing for a barge regions making it easy to com- to get to Bartica. Works on Hinterland roads 2022, Regions Eight and Nine - Lot13 to 15
the new road link began since last year, when Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and a team had visited the propose route for the road. Also opened is a contract for the construction of a pe-
destrian sidewalk for the West Bank of Demerara and this would be from Phoenix Park to Plantain Walk. This project is estimated at $41 million. Below are the companies and their bids:
Lot17: Rehabilitation/construction of Danjah Street, Mahdia, Region Eight
Lot2: construction of pedestrian sidewalk on the West Bank of Demerara from Phoenix Park to Plantain Walk, Region Three.
In the beginning there... From page 25 indissolubility; Forge a system of government that promotes concerned effort and broad based participation in the national decision-making in order to develop a viable economy and harmonious community based on democratic values, social justice, fundamental human rights and the rule of law.” Enshrined too in the solemn preamble is the stated intention of the document to cement celebrating “our cultural and racial diversity and strengthen our unity by elimination any and every form of discrimination.” Speaking directly to Guyana's first peoples, the Guyana Constitution proclaims that Guyanese 'value the special place in our nation of the Indigenous Peoples and recognise their right as citizens to land security and to their promulgation of policies for their communities.” Additionally, Guyana's supreme laws immediately sought to proclaim and acknowledge “the aspirations of our young people who, in their own words, have declared that the future of Guyana belongs to its young people, who aspire to live in a safe society which respects their dignity, protects their rights, recognises their potential, listens to their voices, provides opportunities, ensures a healthy environment and encourages people of all races to live in harmony and peace and affirm that their declaration will be binding on our institutions and be part of the context of our basic
law.” Additionally, it accommodates an affirmation that “we the Guyanese people proclaim this constitution in order to” demonstrate the nation's commitment to protecting the country's natural “environment and endowment (natural resources, et al).” Importantly, it establishes that “as citizens of Guyana, we adopt these fundamental laws and make provision for their amendment to reflect the changes in our society, inspired by our collective quest for a perfect nation, whose characteristics include the commitments, concepts and other principles proclaimed.” With this in mind, it would be poignant to at least have an idea, who those framers were, since for all intents and purposes, they are the ones that ultimately penned the new rules for a sovereign nation. Next week, 'The Constitution and You' will delve into just who exactly played this critical role before moving onto exploring this guiding instrument that has since played a crucial role in the unfolding of the country's evolution on its own. Feel free to send comments to garyeleazar@yahoo.com or msgeleazar@gmail.com (Disclaimer: The author of this article is not an attorney or constitutional scholar and the information conveyed above is not meant to be legal advice on Constitutional matters in any way)
‘Melia’s Creations...’ From page 60 She revealed too that because of the pandemic, business was slow at the beginning but picked up after she went out to her first Farmers Market hosted by the Upmarket team at Moray House Trust in 2021. “Ever since then I’ve been slowly developing,” she pointed out. With a lot to still overcome, Raghunath shared that her long-term business goal is to own a store where she can display her work so it can reach a wider audience and more customers. “I also want to meet worldwide audiences so my work can be recognised,” she indicated. Even as she takes pride in her craft and aims to improve, Raghunath noted that young entrepreneurs, like herself,
“achieve social and economic development. They promote tourism with their unique products, services and creations.” But according to her, to build small businesses in Guyana, there should be more farmers market around the country so that small businesses from all over can have an opportunity to promote their work. “Funding should be available across the country to give a push start to new and developing businesses,” she added. Persons interested in purchasing Raghunath’s hand painted items can reach out to her on Facebook and Instagram @ Melias creations, send her an email at melias.creations20@gmail.com or call her on telephone number (592) 646-3590.
Lot 113: Rehabilitation of Champagne Front Burma road (north to south), Region Five
PAGE 64
Head of State, President Irfaan Ali (at podium), provides on outline on the way forward for the Gas-to-Shore project From page 18 proposal seen by the Kaieteur News, it highlights GuySuCos requirements as “mainly for tillage purposes in heavy clay soils.” The company said implements to be used with the tractors shall include disc ploughs, mounted harrows, trailing harrows and sub-soilers among others. However in Games Summary page, the document highlighted its product line, but spoke mainly about its haulage equipment. “As seen from Incaucas and LaCabanas letters many of their GAME tractors have over 40,000 hours of proven performance with the largest cane haulage trailers in the world…” The proposal went on to talk about locations such as the Cali valley of Colombia which grows some of the heaviest cane and how the GAME tractors perform there in relation to transporting the commodity. At least five other recommendation letters were provided from the American Sugarcane League, Central Romana Company Ltd. from the Dominican Republic, the Dangote Sugar Refinery out of Nigeria and the United States Sugar Company and San Diego, all of whom offered high praises toward the equipments haulage performance expressly. GAME highlighted however that it receives bid inquiries direct from GuySuCo and is a registered supplier, although some believe the act seems “contradictory to open public tendering as suppliers should not be wooed since it could create an expectation.” Outside of this, Kaieteur News was pointed to the fact that in the last three years, the GAME Company has been recording financial losses, “yet we are handing large contracts to the company.” The proposal pointed out for instance, that the companys cash in 2019 moved from US$258,347 to US$81,331 in 2021 while it continued to ex-
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
perience income losses from operation to the tune of US$28,127 in 2019, US$422,755 in 2020 and US$21,607 in 2021. The cost of the four tractors is pegged at US$159,155.00 with possible increases if the options such as air conditioning in the cab, electrical connectors and replays and radio among others are included. The contention some concerned persons have is that given the financial strain GuySuCo is under and its heavy dependence on government funds, excess prudence must be taken when investing sums into the company. Just two weeks ago, questions were also raised over the purchase of six articulated agricultural tractors totaling more than $200M despite the companys Board of Directors (BoDs) ordering a sub- committee to determine the efficiency of those machines against other brands. The subcommittees work was ordered after a follow up report to the BoDs from a senior GuySuCo management showed that John Deere tractors, for instance, are cheaper and more efficient than the tractors procured for preparing for the cultivation of sugar cane. The report said that the company should hold on procuring the items until John Deere was consulted. FRIDAY GAS TO SHORE PROJECT TO COMMENCE BY YEAR END …AS PRESIDENT TOUTS PROFITABILITY WITHOUT FINAL PRICE TAG The Government of Guyana has concluded its latest round of negotiations with ExxonMobil Guyana and its Stabroek Block partners on the Gas to Shore Energy Project, and according to Head of State, President Ali, the final agreement will see
the project coming in much less than had been previously envisioned. While not giving a final price tag, since that will be determined through the final bidding process, President Ali has concluded that the project will cost the nation over the course of its life between four and five US cents per kilowatt hour. The President is adamant that this figure, down from the previous seven US cents per kilo watt hour, includes the full repayment of the 22" pipeline that would be providing some 50 million standard cubic feet of Natural Gas daily to the onshore project. President Ali was at the time outlining the course forward in relation to the development of the project at a special briefing held at State House on Thursday. The activity saw in attendance senior executives from each of the oil partners, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration and CNOOC. Additionally, there was representation from members of the Diplomatic Corps, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister mark Phillips and key Cabinet Members. Others present included Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest), Dr. Peter Ramsaroop and a number of business principals. Mental Transformation President Ali in addressing the issue of a final price tag for the project, intimated that while there have been a number of figures being floated, a final cost for the project could not be had as yet since that would be determined through the final bidding process. According to the President, with the negotiations now concluded and with deadline for Request for proposals ending in September, it is expected that contracts
would be signed for the project in the last quarter of the year. He did disclose that in the coming days, the administration would be looking to secure a Project Manager through a public tender process. Speaking to the benefits to be had from the project, the President said the initiative includes the natural gas liquids plant and a 300 mega watt (MW) electricity project. To this end, he was adamant that the initiative could not be viewed as an isolated project but must be situated in the overall development transformation of the country that includes Energy Security. “To fit the gas to shore project narrowly in just a singular project would be doing an injustice to the overall development plan and agenda of the country.” He was adamant that the project was linked to each of the other developmental pillars, namely infrastructure transformation, the greater embrace of technology, improved services such as health and education, energy, food security as well as economic transformation and diversification. Additionally, the President said, he was looking to add “mental transformation” since the new developmental agenda of the country is being pursued on a larger scale, a scale that requires a new mindset. With some 220,000 households on the national grid being supplied by the Guyana Power and Light Company Inc., President Ali noted that the company generates some $40B in revenues annually. Savings According to the President, with electricity bills slashed in half, it would mean that $20B would immediately be saved through the initiative, which would mean an additional $20B in disposable income in the pockets of Guyanese. Additionally, President Ali said with the new power plant in place, it would also mean an additional US$11M in monthly savings as a result of the savings to be had from purchasing less fuel for electricity generation. As it relates to the other proposed facility, namely the NGL plant, President Ali noted that the industry generates some $10.1B in revenue. SATURDAY EXXONS FINANCIAL RISKS NOTA GUYANESE CONCERNOIL GOVERNANCE NETWORK …CALLSARGUMENTA DISTRACTION FROM CONTRACT RENEGOTIATION The amount of money
Guyana is losing from the lopsided 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) should be of more concern to Guyanese stakeholders rather than the financial risks undertaken by oil companies operating in the Stabroek oil Block. Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN) member Mike Persaud, made the assertion recently as conversations evolve over the amount of risk oil companies are taking to work here. Persaud is adamant that oil companies are gaining heavily from Guyanas PSA, while the country continues to lose from the said agreement. The question therefore, is why Guyanese leaders are preoccupied with the “financial risk assessment” of oil companies investment in Guyana, when such an egregiously lopsided contract has been signed. Persaud said that “Guyanese are misguided to be concerned with “financial risk assessment.” In one instance, Guyana has been described as the “most politically unstable place in the Caribbean” with five of the biggest risks being; political, geological, price, and supply and demand as well as cost risk. The concern of political risk, the government being overthrown, and nationalization were highlighted. Persaud said that Guyana is a place of ethnic politics, but even so this situation “poses no risk to oil companies; in fact, it is obvious that oil companies manipulate the racial divide to their advantage.” This, Persaud said, is evident in none of the main political party leaders wanting to renegotiate the PSA. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo comes off like a Vice President of Exxon and not Guyana, as he is always defending the PSA, Persaud opined. Additionally, he noted that with proven oil reserves of some 11 billion barrels and world demand for oil being strong despite plans for transition to clean energy, the PSA is written in such a way that oil companies recovering all their capital and operational expenses is guaranteed. “Cost Recovery is capped at 75 percent of revenues, taken off at the top, before profit sharing is calculated. Cost Recovery is done on an expedited scale to the duplicitous advantage of oil companies. Moneys recovered as Cost Recovery are ploughed back to open new oil fields and wells; they perform the role of retained earnings. On one hand working capital steadily expands, but mostly with funds taken out as cost recovery. It is plainly double
dipping, doubly benefitting.” He noted too that while the concept of ring fencing has the potential to limit the duplicity leaders seem unwilling to support the renegotiation. Why then should Guyanese be concerned with Exxon and partners risk, Persaud questioned. “What chance is there for oil companies not recouping their investment? Zero. Lets say $2 billion is expended for exploration and no oil is found, what concern is that for the Government of Guyana or Guyanese or this army of pro-Jagdeo/Oil Companies bloggers?” Oil companies, he said, are heavily capitalized, owned by millions of shareholders and their business model prepares them for those risks. “Oil companies are multibillion dollar agencies, why (is) Mr. Jagdeo pre-occupied with Exxons recouping its investment? Mr. Jagdeo is VP of Guyana; he should be preoccupied with getting a fair contract for Guyanese citizens.” In relation to another oil producing nation, Chad, Persaud related that information is available to show that the generous terms of their contract were required by oil companies to compensate for the exceptional risks they would endure in that country. It was suggested that the same could be said for Guyana with the benefits the companies are receiving from the PSA. Exxons people drafted the contract and inserted the most favourable royalties for themselves, the advocate said. They also inserted something called a Stability Clause that nullifies the powers of host countrys Parliament since no new taxes can be passed to impact the oil companies profits in Guyana as well as tax waived for the life of contract in Guyana. “Compare Guyanas with Surinames contract and the scam of the Guyana contract stares you in the face.” The conundrum, he continued is that average market price moved from US$65 to US$110 a barrel generating billions of windfall profits since the Ukraine war started. The United Kingdom, Canada, USA have or are in the process of levying windfalls tax amounting to billions, but “Poor Guyana owns the resource and is collecting wind,” Persaud remarked. He said, “those folks including VP Jagdeo who want the Guyanese people to be more concerned with “risk assessment” of oil companies investment here in Guyana are deliberately trying to divert our attention away (Continued on page 65)
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 65
Kaieteur News
Exxon contract was signed out of desperation...
From page 64 from renegotiation.” GUYSUCO MANAGEMENT SEEKING $1.6B FOR MORE “UNSUITABLE” TRACTORS Executive management staff of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is seeking approximately $1.6B from the Guyana Government, to facilitate the purchase of at least 11 articulated tractors, despite internal contention over the unsuitability of the equipment in the preparation of land for planting sugarcane. In the document which was dated June 2, 2022 and addressed to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, it was detailed that GuySuCo is facing a tillage challenge. The companys estates are expected to plough and prepare 20 percent of their lands annually, but it was found that even the minimum field equipment could not fulfill the task. The document said, the consequence is that the two main sugar EstatesAlbion and Blairmontwere only able to till and replant 14 percent and 11 percent respectively between 2018 and 2021, resulting in an annual shortfall in the replanting of cane lands. The company told the Vice President that apart from losing money, it faces four fundamental problems; the inability to till and plant the land in accordance with the 20 percent convention because of a lack of adequate field equipment; the deteriorated factories; the poor state of the cane transport infrastructure; and the rapid labour attrition rate. Additionally, there is a deficit of 11 pieces of critically needed tillage equipment across the industry when the Uitvlugt Estate is included. In the letter, the Corporation expressed gratitude to the Government for the recent procurement of six “articulated tillage tractors.” It said, the equipment possess a technology that is more compliant with the needs of the industry, but even with their acquisition, there is a deficit of five ma-
chines at Albion and Blairmont based on their requirement. “Immediate expenditure needed in addition to the G$4 billion Capital Contribution for 2022 totals up to G$1,596M, approximately G$1.6 billion,” the executives letter said. The sugar company has stated repeatedly gross deterioration of assets due to the downsizing of the industry has cause significant issues in turning around the sector. Given the companys heavy dependence on state finances, calls have also been made for the company to be prudent in its investmentsthe purchase of the articulated tractors being a case in point. Kaieteur News understands that senior sugar officials, including some Board of Directors are against the purchase of the articulated tractors, since they say it is unsuitable for tillage at the company, and that the product had not been purchased by the company more than two decades now. Information suggests that moves to purchase articulated tractors did not occur until the new management arrived. Under the then name Cameco, GuySuCo used the equipment since the 80s and 90s but it eventually phased out due to its high cost and high maintenance. This newspaper was told that when information for the six governmentpurchased tractors came to the board, there were heated exchanges for and against the product. A report on the efficiency of articulated tractors (Game) against the (fixed frame) John Deere tractors was ordered by the board. The review which was reported on by this newspaper said that John Deere tractors are cheaper, performed better and saved a bit more time and fuel. A month later, GuySuCos Chief Executive Officer, Sasenarine Singh, signed a more than $200M contract provided by the government for the procurement of the said articulated tractors. This new fleet of equipment will nonetheless improved yields from 2024, since it will arrive in 2023, the letter to the VP said.
Corruption benefits the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor. Say no to it.
From page 12 can be better now because the area has been derisked and I believe that that is one of the area that we should very much argue for in the negotiations for the new blocks that they are about to start exploring.” When asked to say specifically if he believes that the oil company should pay its own taxes in any new agreement, the Leader agreed and added, “Ring-fencing provisions should be included but it will all depend on whether Exxon agrees to these things because we might agree to 50 percent royalty, we might demand a maximum taxation but that does not mean that Exxon will agree.” Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has repeatedly said during press conferences that the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government will not renegotiate the
2016 oil contract that was signed for the Stabroek Block, where approximately 11 billion barrels of oil has been discovered to date, as it believes in sanctity of contracts. While in opposition, the PPP had promised to renegotiate the deal but changed its mind upon assuming leadership of the country in August 2020. Instead, Jagdeo has indicated that the government will be seeking better terms in any new agreements. Back in February, this publication reported that the VP had pointed that a model PSA will address issues such as higher royalty rates, the need for ringfencing provisions, as well as those related to taxes. Speaking with members of the media at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), the Vice President said, “CGX Energy Inc. has found oil and there may be now increased pressure be-
cause if they move swiftly to production then we will have to get a model PSA in place.” The former Head of State said work on the PSA was put on the back burner since ExxonMobil was the lone explorer marking all the commercial discoveries in the Stabroek Block. The Vice President said, “So there is urgency now to move to a model PSA that would correct many of the things we find are wrong with the last one that was signed with Exxon (the Stabroek Block PSA). And all new entrants would have to subscribe to the new conditions. I don't want to get into too many details but issues raised such as high royalty rate, and ring-fencing, those have to be looked at; tax treatment and a whole range of other issues have to be looked at.” He added, “There are about 10 or 11 areas we iden-
tified to look at and they have to do with the fiscal terms.” He alluded, nonetheless, that when the time arrives, the government would be ready to engage with CGX and its partner, Frontera. Currently, the lone oil producer in the country – ExxonMobil – is seeking to start exploration and drilling activities in the Kaieteur and Canje Blocks. Applications for the activities have been submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval. For the Canje 12-well drilling campaign, Exxon is hoping to commence its operations in the fourth quarter of this year and wrap up in the first quarter of 2025. As regard the Kaieteur 12-well campaign, the oil company said that this exercise, once approved, would start in 2022 or 2023 and conclude by the first quarter 2027.
Kaieteur M@ilbox Not a good idea for four lanes... From page 6 will also result in a high-speed roadway being dangerously close to persons and
residences since there will be little or no buffer between the roadway and their homes. For the health and safety of
residents, a better solution may be to increase the number of twolane roads leading out of the East Coast of Demerara rather than
over-burden the existing roads to move higher volumes of traffic. Thank you, Zorina Gafoor
Kaieteur News
PAGE 66
Little Johny and the Bubble Bath
Sunday July 03, 2022
Junior page
By Manjari Shukla
L
ittle Johny was a cute and charming young boy and was loved by everyone. He never troubled his mother and played all day with his toys. He used to spend the entire day playing on the floor and the dirt and dust on the floor made him dirty. In spite of his mother's repeated requests he did not want to take bath. He always made many excuses to avoid taking a bath. One day he was looking very dirty and his hair was shabby, so his mother kissed him gently and said – “Today I will give you a bubble bath.” Little Johny had many excuses not to have a bath. So he replied innocently – “But I will take my big yellow ball too in the bath tub.” His mother agreed happily and said – “Yes, you can take it.” Now Little Johny's face got pale. He was thinking his mother would not allow the toys in the bath tub and then he too would be saved from
water. He thought of an idea. He added –“But I will only take bath with the fish and duck.” “WHAT?” his mother's eyes almost popped out.” She replied helplessly – “I can get FISH somehow, but how will I bring a DUCK?” Little Johny jumped with joy to hear this. He said-“Oh! my dear mother, I will not have bath without a fish and duck.” His mother thought for a while and replied – “Promise me, you will take bath after having the fish and the duck in your bath tub.” “I promise.” And Little Johny jumped with joy and ran to his room. After some time his mother came and said – “Your beautiful golden fish and a snow white duck are waiting for you in the tub.” Oh! you are great,” said Little Johny. “But you have to keep
your eyes open in the bath tub,” his mother smiled and said. “Why not?” Little Johny immediately closed his eyes, held his mother's hand and walked excitedly towards the bathroom. When he got in the tub, he opened his eyes happily. But after seeing the toy duck and the toy fish, he cried loud up to the sky. He splashed the water angrily with his hands and cool droplets of water covered his face all over. He felt delighted. “Oh! It's lovely,” he said and he soaked himself in the tub and started playing with bubble bath. His mother asked cheerfully -“Which animals should I bring tomorrow?” He looked at his mother and cried joyfully-“Nothing! bubble bath is wonderful and I'll have it daily.” And they both laughed loudly.
Fourth of July word scramble Unscramble the words and then use the highlighted letters to write out the secret message. Good luck unscrambling.
stickers To make stickers you will need: Paper Colouring pencils or pens Clear parcel tape Wax paper Scissors Instructions to make sticker: 1. Draw your favourite things with felt tips or colouring pencils. Cut out the around the outline of the pictures you want to turn into stickers. 2. Take a piece of wax paper
and place some clear parcel tape on top. 3. Place the picture cutout on top of the parcel tape and top with another piece of tape. Press down to make sure the tape is stuck down around the drawing. 4. Cut around the edge of the sticker, making sure to leave an edge of sticky tape around the drawing, as this is what holds the sticker together. 5. When you're ready to use your sticker, p e e l
away the wax paper backing. If it doesn't come away easily, an adult can score the back of the paper with a pair of scissors and peel off the wax paper from the tear. 6. If you're not ready to use the sticker, peel off the wax paper anyway. Take a large sheet of wax paper and apply all your stickers to this. When you're ready to sticker, it will be easier to remove the stickers from this.
Y
ETR O P H T I FUN W
The best feeling I get
I feel so nice when I eat Ice cream, cookies and fruit cake, Chocolate, candy and other sweets, As well as burgers, pizza and milk-shake. I also get very happy When I celebrate my birthday Go to the park, seawall and creek, And enjoy Christmas and other holidays. But the thing that makes me feel the best, And makes me proud indeed, Is when I try to help someone, Or give them something they need. I start by doing more work at home, Then try to make my family feel good; Next I am kinder to all my friends, And help my neighbours in any way I could.
by Uncle Roy
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 67
TEEN TIME Be an Angel to those around you There is a story an angel appearing to a young man who could have only seen her when he thought of helping someone in distress rather than simply ignoring this and thinking only of himself. Because he started to make a purposeful effort of being kind to others, his entire life was changed from frustration to optimism when he saw this angel smiling at him. I only hope that a visit from your guardian angel will inspire you to keep extending the helping hand to others. It is a sad thing that whatever is going on in the world is more and more encouraging people to get more possessions for themselves, and also to find ways to make life always easier as the way to achieving happiness. Business places keep instilling in us the need to acquire things, and we can
see this as we go about in the streets or our city, towns and villages. Then we see people whom we know to have more than their share of wealth still trying to grab more for themselves. But are these people really happy in their personal and family lives? Do they have this sense of fulfilment as they strive to make themselves richer while robbing others of their
share of the common wealth? You must have had some experiences when you can see that this is not so. This is continually telling us that our life can only be fulfilled if we do not just look after ourselves, but try to help those around us, and even to seek out individuals or organisations to which we can contribute, and do our part to make their lives and work happier in some way.
Our guardian angel would be indeed sad if we do not make an effort to help those we see in need. As with the angel in the story we mentioned above, our reminder of this may come in different forms, sometimes in ways that do not look so pretty. But we must try to see beyond this and do our part to make the world a better place for those who are not as fortunate as ourselves. Let the message of the young man's story, and the feeling of goodwill that we get during our various celebrations, remind us of our duty to always strive to make the world a better place for all our fellowmen on earth. In doing so, may you reap the reward of true fulfilment and a sense of purpose in your life, which are so essential for us to be truly happy.
Hexadecimal Sudokus Hexadecimal Sudokus (also known as 16x16 Sudoku) are a larger version of regular Sudoku that feature a 16 x 16 grid, and 16 hexadecimal digits. Each row, column and 4x4 block contains all the digits 0 thru F (or numbers from 1 to 16, in the decimal versions).
Love is something, if you give it away, You will end up with more than before; It is just like a magic penny, Hold it tight and you have no more. It never hurts to send forth love, For we have so much to spare; God gave us some extra helpings, So that we will have much to share. It never hurts to find someone, Who lives with pain and sorrow, And bring that someone hope and faith, Enough to face tomorrow. It never hurts to pray for those Who cannot find their way; If we were lost and lonely too, We'd want someone to pray
by Kendacia Harwood
Of all the things we have to strive for, building happy relationships with the others in our life is the most important.
o
tt i l l e T
Hello, readers, Uncle Roy is again asking all of you to try in some way to make a contribution to this page, and thus to the welfare of you and your fellow readers. This contribution can take any form that you feel would be valuable – an account of what is going on in your community and country, any advice you would like to pass on to your fellow teen readers and, on a broader level, any comment or recommendation you would like to make to your fellow Guyanese. Please remit same to my email – roypaul2002@yahoo.com, and be assured that your worthwhile contribution will have a prominent place on our page.
Solutions to last week’s
PAGE 68
How you wash your hair and the products you use can go a long way in maintaining smooth, shiny hair. Follow these simple tips from dermatologists to maintain healthy hair. How you wash your hair and the products you use can go a long way toward maintaining smooth, shiny hair. Follow these simple tips from dermatologists to maintain healthy hair. Wash oily hair more frequently. How often you wash your hair should be based on how much oil your scalp produces. If your scalp is oily, you may need to wash it as often as once a day. If you have chemically treated hair, your hair may be drier, so you may want to wash it less frequently. As you get older, your scalp makes less oil, so you may not need to shampoo as often. But if you see flakes in your hair, you may not be shampooing enough. This can lead to dandruff and other scalp diseases. Concentrate shampoo on the scalp. When washing your hair, concentrate on cleaning primarily the scalp, rather than washing the entire length of hair. Washing only your hair can create flyaway hair that is dull and coarse. Use conditioner after every shampoo unless you use a “2in-1” shampoo, which cleans and conditions hair. Using a conditioner can significantly improve the look of damaged or weathered hair by increasing shine, decreasing static electricity, improving strength and offering some protection from harmful UV rays. Concentrate conditioner on the tips of the hair. Because conditioners can make fine hair look limp, they only should be used on the tips of the hair and not on the scalp or length of the hair. Choose a shampoo and conditioner formulated specifically for your hair type. For example, if you color your hair, use a shampoo designed for color-treated hair. If your hair is damaged or chemically treated, consider a “2-in-1” shampoo. Regardless of cost, many shampoo and conditioner brands provide the same benefits. Protect hair when swimming. Protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine by wetting and conditioning your hair before swimming. Wear a tight-fitting swim cap and use a specially formulated swimmers shampoo and deep conditioner after swimming to replace lost moisture.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 70
WANTED
PROPERTY FOR SALE
VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable & 1 new super custom Hiace Bus 2.5M .Contact:649-0956.
1-(2) story house 3 1/2 bedroom,9st Cummings Lodge.Tel:622-8748/652-3158 negotiable. Subryanville,Peter's Hall,Ogle,Enterprise C,Good Hope,East Coast,Princess St.Contact:Ray's Realty 6279685.
Porter,stock clerk,counter clerk,experienced cook & puri/roti maker.Call:648-8279/ 231-6591. Female to take care of an elderly male,age 25-40 in Trinidad. Accommodations provided.Call or WhatsApp 18686831528. Technician for supplying & installing security beams & h o u s e p a i n t e r / c l e a n e r. Tel:227-1813/686-5917.
VACANCY LAND FOR SALE SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040. Are you in a desperate situation in need of prayerful support?Call:663-4654.
228 acres Rice Land.Bushy Park Parika EBE.Tel:615-2270 or 626-5290. Land 45x85 @Belle West W.B.D $2.5million.Tel:6557405. Cummingslodge,Garden of Eden,Farm,Friendship, Providence, East Bank. Contact: Ray's Realty 627-9685.
FOR SALE
WANTED
CAT 215 excavator parts, steel trailor 16ft/8ft/2ft.Road painting machine.Tel:2750367/683-7225. Tyre air compressor,2-excavator buckets.Dragline hammer 1 1/2 tons.Tel:275-0367/ 683-7225.
Factory workers male & female.Apply to R.P's Enterprise area "k" LeRess ouvenir E.C.D.Tel:220-2818. Canter driver,must be able to work flexible hour,female to work in interior, live in maid 603-1300. One bodywork man to do preparation work at Industrial E.C.D.Call:649-4964. AutoCad technician wanted. Tel:624-1490. Maid Mon-Fri,age 30-50yrs old.Call:618-1802 between 2:00pm and 6:00pm. Unarmed security officer with previous military and security experience,age 3050.Contact:231-6052/2316040. Cook,Bar girl & Males for Interior.Live in domestic for Georgetown.Contact:6615952/632-5459. Live in person from country district to do light duties will train.Line phone:502-4393 cell:655-6518. Male and female receptionist experienced in George town 30yrs and over. 12 Henry St Werk-en-Rust 2259211. Looking for a Rough Diamond grades with 20yrs experience in the Rough Diamond Industry.Call:658-6080. Female sleep-in attendant age 45-55yrs for old lady. Call:633-7778 between 9:am5pm Mon-Sat. Live in domestic.Must know to prepare indian dishes 3050yrs salary 30-35,000 wkly 610-3974.
Household furniture & articles. Contact:227-3626.
FOR RENT Small business place to rent,26 Norton & Creen Georgetown $60,000 monthly. Tel:671-5307. 1 complete unfurnisher upper & lower flat,2&3 bedrooms,2 bedrooms E.C.D. Tel:651-9241/675-6711/6767463. Modern building to accommodate 75 staffs members with parking,Saffon St,4 apt building Providence.Ray's Realty 627-9685.
PROPERTY FOR SALE Prime Business Spot. Contact:683-3088 between the hours of 8:30-5:00pm Monday-Friday. Property for Sale in Camp bellville.Tel:226-1157. 1 two story concrete building in Bent St,price $46million. Contact:227-3626.
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
Pitmen for interior location. Applicants must be experie nced.Call:231-2250. Experienced Joiners,very attractive salary.For further details,please call:640-8969. Receptionist,Hotel Attendant & Merchandisers .Email:info@vgiworld.com tel:640-0673/227-7714/2310951/4. Pitmen & Technical assistant for interior location. Applicants must be experienced. Call:231-2250. Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles,age 2350 car/van licence. Call:6429823. Accounts Clerks,quickbooks knowledge & accounting experience.Tel:609-2995, email:survival.human resources @gmail.com. Inventory/DataEntry Clerks,survival shopping c o m p l e x . Te l : 6 0 9 - 2 9 9 5 , email:survival.human resources @gmail.com. Supermarket cashiers,math & english required.Tel:2275286-9,609-2995,email: survival.humanresources @gmail.com. Bond Clerks/Porters.Tel:2275286,609-2995,email:survival. humanresources@gmail.com. Drivers,valid drivers license (with motor lorry).Tel:6092995, email:survival.human resources@gmail.com. Western Union CSRS,CXC math & english.173 Sheriff St.Tel:Tel:227-5286-9,6092995,email: survival. human resources @gmail.com. Male Security Guard.Apply in person at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda. Engineering consultant.Send application to clearview @ cconsultingservice.com,361 Eccles E.B.D.Tel:665-9693. Fitter Machinist,Welder fabricator ,Mechanic with 3 yrs experience,Apprentice & Male & Female cleaner 642-9823 email:techserigy @yahoo.com. One male sales rep,age 2025.Must have knowledge of auto accessories. Contact: 610-0340. Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area. Call:615-9132.
Legal hurdles preventing Hicken's official... From page 13 currently perturbed as to how the President intends to go forward with this process in the face of legal objections,” Forde said. He added, “There are a number of issues raised in our application to the court about Hicken's current appointment as acting Commissioner of Police.” He said that the appointment is being challenged on the basis that that “Hicken was unilaterally put in the position.” “At the time, there was neither Leader of the Opposition nor a chairman of the Police Service Commission [PSC] which means the process was devoid of meaningful consultation with the relevant stakeholders,” Forde said. Added to this, Forde is contending that the current Chairman of the PSC, Findlay, was appointed outside the legally required process. “It is our contention that he [Findlay] too was unilat-
erally appointed and so we are challenging all these matters…” Forde said. The APNU+AFC Parliamentarian said that he is hoping that the court would address the issues raised to bring about a resolution that will clarify the appointment process was indeed outside the lawful requirements. Last May, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Christopher Jones moved to the High Court in a bid to have Hicken's acting appointment overturned. Jones has, inter alia, asked that the Court grants a declaration that Hicken's appointment as the acting Commissioner of Police is unreasonable, ultra vires the Constitution, Common Law and is illegal, null, void and of no legal effect. Specifically, Jones requested that the Court grant a declaration that the appointment violates article 211 (1) and 211(2) of the Constitution. He has also asked for a declaration that the decision
to appoint Hicken as acting Commissioner of Police violates the process as required and contemplated by the Constitution for the consultation between the President and the Leader of the Opposition. Jones wants the court to issue an Order or ask Mr. Hicken to show under what authority he is exercising and/or discharging the functions of the office of Commissioner of Police in an acting capacity or any capacity whatsoever. Additionally, Jones who is also the Chief Whip for the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition asked the Court to grant an order quashing Hicken's appointment as acting Commissioner of Police. On the grounds of his application, Jones noted that President Ali's decision to invoke the doctrine of necessity to appoint Hicken as acting Commissioner of Police is therefore unlawful and unconstitutional.
Selfless doctors volunteer time, expertise... From page 62 His experience, he said, led him to form the GCS, an NGO that today focuses just on cancer, especially cervical cancer. One of the goals of the cancer society, he added, “is to bring the rate of cervical cancer down in the country because it is both curable and preventable.”
Guyana’s president, Irfaan Ali, who attended the dinner, is supportive of the mission of the GCS. In fact, during a speech he made at the fundraising event, he pledged that his government will play its part to make health care more affordable in Guyana, especially for cancer patients and those who suffer from other non-communi-
cable diseases. As such, he promised then to throw his government’s support behind NGOs that have been filling the gap to provide health care services to those who cannot afford it. In his personal capacity, the President, at the event, donated $1 million to help advance the work of the GCS.
Kaieteur M@ilbox Destruction was swift DEAR EDITOR, It seems there is disgruntlement in some quarters with which the swiftness of compensation was meted out to vendors who suffered losses, damages and destruction to property in the mayhem of riotous Tuesday (KN June 30). Well destruction was
swift and unhindered so compensation must be swift and unhindered. I would only ask that claims being made are legitimate and verifiable, and persons do not scam the system, as was done in other cases of assistance. By the way, those who suffered losses, destruction and damages in the 2020 West Coast Berbice riots, were
they too compensated? To the persons who suffered and had to endure the trauma and tragedies of Tuesday, I offer my prayers and comfort that you would be able to overcome the ordeal and transgressions against you as you pick up your lives in the shortest possible time. Shamshun Mohamed
Live with eternity in mind
VACANCY One clerk for TSI Eccles office English & Math, grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to techserigy @yahoo.com.
DEAR EDITOR, I sometimes wonder if I do myself a grave injustice by looking at the daily newspapers in the morning. As I turn the pages, I am flooded by episodes of injustice, murder of the old, murder of the young, domestic violence, fraud, racial tensions, illegalities you name it, and I am tempted to despair. I heard the President in a recent
recording giving us a timely reminder that the grave is the final destination for each of us (from a human stand point) - whether we live like paupers or princes; whether we do good or evil. I would like to add that there is life beyond the grave. As it is written in the scriptures, “so then each of us shall give account of himself to God”—Romans 14:12. I urge us all to live with eternity in view, “for what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” [Mark 8:36] Claudia Heywood
Sunday July 03, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 71
Kaieteur News
PAGE 72
Sunday June 26, 2022
Opposition's proposal to local content law unconstitutional - Attorney General T
he Opposition's p r o p o s e d amendments to the Local Content Bill before it was passed into law, which was purportedly ignored by the Government, were rejected on the grounds that they are in direct contradiction of constitutional provisions. Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, explained in a letter to the editor on S a t u r d a y, t h a t w h i l e contentions are being raised over the proposal to amend, the government had taken into account that the suggested adjustments would have run “afoul,” of the constitution. The AG was at the time responding to Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) and former Minister of Public Works, David Patterson. Patterson pointed to some recommendations which he said the government ignored before the Local Content Bill of 2021 was made into law. Patterson claimed that the government overlooked some key issues raised. These, he said, included the need for amendment to the Citizen's Act and New Immigration Policy which would have strengthened the legal and regulatory stipulations for local content. Patterson's remarks were made in the face of contentions raised by Ramps Logistics Guyana which had been denied a local content certificate.
Opposition MP David Patterson.
Ramps Logistics Guyana Inc. has complained that it was denied a local content certificate even though the company is 51 percent Guyanese owned. The company noted that 51 percent is held by its Chairman Trinidad-born Deepak Lall, who has strong connections to Guyana through his patriarchal family. Lall was granted citizenship in Guyana just after three months of applying. Patterson contended that the issue raised by Ramps could have been avoided had the government heeded the calls for amendments. The AG has a different point of view. He shared that the amendments advocated for by Patterson and team is not in keeping with the Constitution-- Guyana's supreme law. The AG asserted that
“…Patterson is obviously unaware that our supreme law defines who is or isn't qualified to be registered as a citizen of Guyana. Any law which purports to restrict or is inconsistent with that definition will run afoul of the Constitution and shall be void to the extent of that inconsistency.” Nandlall cited Article 8 of the Constitution: “…is the supreme law of Guyana and, if any other law is inconsistent with it, that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.” He noted that while Patterson raised an issue with the timeframe in which the Ramps official was granted citizenship, “By his heritage, Mr. Lall is a Guyanese citizen from birth. He simply had to register that citizenship with the relevant authority.” Article 44 of the Constitution, Nandlall said, states that “A person born
outside Guyana after the commencement of this Constitution shall become a citizen of Guyana at the date of his or her birth if at that date his or her father or his or her mother is a citizen of Guyana…” Further, the AG noted that Article 149 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination. He continued, “Article 149 (1) of the Constitution provides, inter alia, “Subject to the provisions of this article – (a) no law shall make any provision that is discriminatory either of itself or in its effect; and (b) no person shall be treated in a discriminatory manner by any person acting by virtue of any written law or in the performance of the functions of any public office or any public authority.” In the circumstances, Nandlall said were the GoG to adopt Mr. Patterson's proposals, the Local Content Act would have been in violent tension and conflict with the Constitution. “The new immigration p o l i c y f o r w h i c h M r. Patterson advocates would suffer a similar fate,” he added. Moreover, the Attorney General underscored that Patterson refused to acknowledge that only the night before the Local Content Bill was tabled in the National Assembly, the APNU+AFC submitted 14 proposed amendments to the Bill of which 10 were
Attorney General, Anil Nandall, SC accepted by the Government, and included in the Bill. In addition, Nandlall stressed that while Patterson next criticises the Act for not providing a right of appeal in respect of any application rejected, the GoG's intent was to avoid administrative bureaucracy as far as possible. According to Nandlall, the right to appeal is made under the provisions of the Judicial Review Act. He s a i d u n d e r section three of the Judicial Review Act, Cap . 3 :0 6 , any p ers o n who is adversely a f f e c t e d b y a n administrative act or omission of anybody which affects public law rights , o b lig ations
o r expectations may apply to the court for judicial review. Further, the AG under section 15 of the Act, a person adversely affected by an administrative decision may request reasons for that decision and must be provided with those reasons if that request was made within 14 days of the decision. He added, “Therefore, there was no need to burden the Local Content Act with such an unusual bureaucracy specifically dealt with by the Judicial Review Act.” As fate would have it, the AG said, “this is the very Act, under which the lawyers for the company relied in their request for reasons regarding the rejection of their application.”
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 73
Kaieteur News
WI vs Ban match abandoned after rain breaks beat cut-off time
A wet outfield delayed the toss at Windsor Park. (Walton)
Sunday July 03, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Maintaining equilibrium might not be the easiest task today, but if anyone can do it, you can, Aries. You may find that others' strong opinions are cropping up and challenging your ego.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) There is an extra blast of wind to fill your sails today, Libra, so make sure you've got both hands on the steering wheel. Whichever way your rudder is pointed is the direction you'll go.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Desire is the name of the game for you today, Taurus. If you want it, you can get it, but it won't come easily. The prize will go to the person who desires it the most.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) The day's energy is erratic and you're apt to jump all over the place, Scorpio. Don't worry about trying to firm up any plans at this time. You may feel like you're trying to grab a slippery fish with butter on your hands.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today will be like playing a game on your home field, Gemini. You have fans out there supporting you and you know the territory. Take advantage of the little things that you have going for you.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Get up and get going today. You have no time to lose. Your quick mind will be busy working on many tasks, but this suits you just fine.
CANCER(June21–July22) Enlist the help of others today, Cancer. You'll find that information exchange is the key to putting the last few puzzle pieces into place. Doing things on your own is important and necessary.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Your heart may experience some wild fluctuations today, Capricorn. It may seem as if your emotions are on a runaway train with no track. If so, the best thing to do is sit by yourself and write.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) This is an excellent day for you. Your ego is strong, and beautiful things are flowing your way in general. You should enjoy a good mood that will attract favorable people and situations.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Suddenly things are coming to a head for you. The drama is escalating, and you aren't sure if you can remember all your lines. Take things one step at a time. Deal with the issues as they come.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your emotions may be a bit erratic. It could be hard for you to focus on anything today, Virgo. Things continue to shift from one topic to the next with little resolution of any. Others aren't apt to be very sympathetic to your feelings.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A great deal of attention will center on your emotions today, Pisces, although being centered in and of itself will be quite the challenge. You may feel like a yo-yo at the mercy of someone else's hand. Don't fall prey to victimization.
The first T20 International between West Indies and Bangladesh of the current series in Dominica was abandoned after rain breaks beat the scheduled cut off time yesterday. The game was delayed due to rain and when the umpires gave clearance for play, the match was reduced to a 16-over contest. West Indies won the toss and invited Bangladesh to bat and while the visitors scored at a decent rate of more than nine runs an over, key breakthroughs by the Windies bowling saw wickets fall at regular intervals and there were two stoppages for rain. When the final stoppage came Bangladesh were 105-8 off 13 overs with Shakib Al Hasan 29 and Nurul Hasan 25 the batters to get decent starts. Romario Shepherd 3-21 and Hayden Walsh 2-24 were the key bowlers in the wickets column for the home side. The rain persisted and based on the time allowed for a continuation elapsed they games was abandoned. The two teams will try again today for a full match when they meet again at the same venue in the second game of the series.
Guyanese motorcyclist Leroy Cort... From page 79 most notably Ian Beam from St. John who secure four Expert podiums. Ian visited Guyana in November 2019 and competed at South Dakota but was plagued by motorcycle issues, therefore unable to perform at his best. Hopefully with the new GMRSC committee and a newly paved South Dakota circuit we could see Ian returning to compete in Guyana as well as many others who just love the spirit of the Guyanese fans.”
GFF NAMILCO Thunderbolt... From page 75 others who are now part of the Golden Jaguars senior men’s team. “Seeing them graduating from this competition and now representing the Golden Arrow Head is a tremendous source of pride for the GFF and NAMILCO,” he stated. Forde stated that they will continue to work as hard as they have to and take the decisions that are necessary to ensure that all nine of the regional associations organise and manage the league with the quality that it deserve. He thanked the sponsors. Finance Control Manager of NAMILCO Fitzroy McLeod said it is well known that one of the most important things for young footballers to develop is to have frequent competitions. And for Guyana’s football to be able to compete at the international level this was one of the missing links. “NAMILCO wants to participate in something that will impact the country, through this competition we believe that we will,” he posited. McLeod said they are
looking forward to continuous success and encouraged the youths to work hard. “We look forward to seeing you in the future and on behalf of the management I ask that you the players conduct yourselves in a way that will bring credit to your team and tournament,” he said. Brandon Joseph expressed gratitude to the sponsors and said this competition will serve as preparation for the CONCACAAF U17 championship. He added that it gives the players an opportunity to showcase their skills and also gives an opportunity to scout players which will help to strengthen the national team. He pointed out that they were unable to play the national U17 championship prior to the U16 team being selected to play in Bosnia so most of the players there lacked game time. Meanwhile, The GFF is working towards setting up an interim body in region one as they look to establish the area as an additional regional association.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 74
Sunday July 03, 2022
England v India: Jasprit Bumrah stars with all-round display at Edgbaston BBC Sport - Jasprit Bumrah’s incredible allround display put England under huge pressure on the second day of the fifth Test against India at Edgbaston. Bumrah took the first three wickets, before the crucial late loss of Joe Root was followed by the departure of nightwatchman Jack Leach to leave England 84-5, 332 behind. Stand-in captain Bumrah had earlier crashed Stuart Broad for the most expensive over in Test cricket history, costing 35 runs. With Ravindra Jadeja completing a fine century, India were bowled out for 416 - James Anderson picking up two of the wickets to fall on Saturday morning for figures of 5-60. Bumrah removed Alex Lees, the struggling Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope, before India were stalled by a two-hour break for rain - the third lengthy delay of the day. Evening sunshine gave India a bonus hour in which Root and Leach fell, leaving Jonny Bairstow unbeaten on 12 and skipper Ben Stokes on nought. Katie Boulter was well beaten by Harmony Tan. (Adam Davy/PA) (PA Wire)
The tourists lead the series 2-1, with this match rescheduled from September last year after the original fifth Test was postponed because of a Covid-19 scare in the India camp. New England under pressure Given all that happened on this soggy Saturday, it is hard to believe the rain allowed only 38.5 overs of play. England found themselves in trouble in all of the three Tests they won against New Zealand and they will have to draw on all of their new-found resilience to come through this situation. India were always likely to pose a more complex challenge than New Zealand, and the momentum has been with them since they recovered from 98-5 on the first afternoon. Bumrah is unorthodox but one of the most skilful fast bowlers in the game. Buoyed by his batting and kept fresh by the rain breaks, he made light of the slow pitch to carve through England’s top order. He found a huge gap in Lees’ defence and bowled
the left-hander, before Crawley was suckered into an all too familiar edge to be held at third slip. Crawley is comfortably the new England regime’s biggest problem. Stokes has offered his unequivocal backing, but the Kent man’s highest score in 11 innings is 43 and the repeated nature of his loose driving outside off stump hints at a player who is not learning. When Pope chased a very wide one to slice to second slip, Root and Bairstow, England’s batting stars of the summer, were reunited for another rescue job. Aided firstly by the rain, they were making steady progress when play finally resumed at 18:00, even if Root was unusually loose outside off stump and Bairstow a becalmed version of the batter that blitzed New Zealand. But with Root on 31, Mohammed Siraj got one to cut back, too close for an attempted cut, resulting in a glove behind. Leach was dropped off his first ball, then edged Shami behind off his fifth, meaning Stokes had to come out in the penultimate over of
the day. B r i l l i a n t B u m r a h ’s moment of history While Stokes’ approach to captaincy has been refreshing, even he has failed to shake off his predecessors’ baffling habit of approaching tailend partnerships by bowling bouncer after bouncer with fielders scattered around the boundary. Time and again, the tactic has failed England. And yet, on Saturday morning, when Jadeja resumed on 83 and with Shami yet to get off the mark, Jadeja was faced with as many as seven men on the rope and Shami regularly only faced one or two balls in an over. England’s approach finally bore fruit when Shami ramped to third man for Broad’s 550th Test wicket, but by then Jadeja had cut Matthew Potts for four to go to his third Test hundred. There were probably more runs out there for Jadeja, but he was bowled for 104 taking a swipe at Anderson. England had India 375-9 and should have bowled them out for less than 400,
Jasprit Bumrah swivels and pulls one off Stuart Broad. (Getty Images) yet what followed was some of the most chaotic, ridiculous Test cricket you could ever see. As Broad pounded the ball into the middle of the pitch and Bumrah swung hard, England lost the plot. Two sixes and four fours came off the historic over. One of the sixes came from a no-ball and one of the bouncers went for five wides. With only one legal delivery bowled, Broad had already conceded 16 runs,
the previous record for the most expensive over - 28 was matched after four balls, and then Bumrah entered the record books with his second maximum. A single scrambled off the final ball made a total of 35, and the mayhem was only ended when Anderson had last man Siraj held at mid-off. Scores: India 416: Pant 146, Jadeja 104; Anderson 5-60: England 84-5: Root 31; Bumrah 3-34. England are 332 runs behind.
Katie Boulter blown away by Serena Williams-conqueror Harmony Tan at Wimbledon
T
he Independent - Katie mourning the loss of her grandmother Boulter’s fine Wimbledon run earlier this week, might have sensed it ended in disappointing fashion would not be her day when, in her first with a one-sided defeat by service game, she broke a string and saw Harmony Tan in the third round. two Tan shots hit the top of the net. Boulter produced the best result of her career by Harmony Tan produced upsetting last year’s runner-up a fine display to reach Karolina Pliskova on the fourth round. (Adam Thursday but was unable to Davy/PA) (PA Wire) get into the match against Tan, who has built on her firstround victory over Serena Williams brilliantly and is through to the last 16 at a grand slam for the first time. Tan, ranked three places higher than Boulter at 115, was in control from the start and eased to a 6-1 6-1 victory in just 51 minutes. Wimbledon organisers faced criticism for not scheduling Boulter on a bigger court after her exploits against Pliskova, and there were plenty of empty seats on Court Two when play began at 11am. Boulter, who has been
If the Frenchwoman had a slice of luck, though, she more than earned her superiority in the rest of the first set, serving superbly and making Boulter’s life very uncomfortable. While the British number three was happily able to trade pace with the flat-hitting Pliskova, this was a very different assignment, with Tan chipping the ball back and mixing up angles and spins. Boulter’s grandfather and close family were again courtside to cheer her on but she looked all at sea in the first two games of the second set as dreams of a first run to the second week of a grand slam began to rapidly fade. There were flashes of the shots that wowed Centre Court but most of the highlights came from Tan, including a tweener on her way to breaking serve again to lead 4-1. Two games later, the contest was over, Boulter ending a match she will want to forget with a double fault.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 75
Amanda Anisimova GFF NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour ousts Coco Gauff at power National U-17 league to Wimbledon commence on July 9
Amanda Anisimova NBC Sports - Amanda Anisimova outlasted Coco Gauff in an all-American c l a s h a t Wi m b l e d o n , reaching the fourth round. Anisimova, who reached the 2019 French Open semifinals at age 17, took out Gauff, the French Open runner-up last month, 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-1 to get into the round of 16. “It’s the most special day, I think, of my career,” said Anisimova, noting it was her first match on Centre Court. The 20th seed will be favored against 115thranked Frenchwoman Harmony Tan on Monday for a place in Wednesday’s quarterfinals. Anisimova, who bounced back after squandering a 4-1 lead in the first-set tiebreak, made the fourth round of all three
majors so far this year. She can reach her first major quarterfinal since that 2019 French Open breakthrough. Tan, who knocked out Serena Williams in her Wimbledon main draw debut, swept Brit Katie Boulter in the third round Saturday. Gauff, who is 18, seeded 11th and the youngest woman in the top 140 of the world rankings (by more than one year), struggled to win points on her first serve. The powerful Anisimova more often dictated and prevailed despite having 40 unforced errors to 26 winners. Gauff was bidding to reach the Wimbledon fourth round for a third consecutive time dating to her Cocomania debut in 2019 at age 15.
Action in the exhibition game between Herstelling and the National U17 team. (Zaheer Mohamed photos) By Zaheer Mohamed The Guyana Football Federation NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour power National U17 league is set to commence on July 9 following a hiatus of two years. This was disclosed at the launching ceremony which was held yesterday at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence. The tournament will kick
Speaking at the ceremony, GFF President Wayne Forde said the first youth development nationwide inter association league that was launched by his administration was done in partnership with NAMILCO. “Like many other partnerships, it has had its successes, but we have also had our challenges and I believe what comes to mind at this moment is that fact
that we have been able to celebrate our success and work though the details of the decisions that we need to take together to negate those challenges, “ he added. Forde noted that many young players have benefitted from this partnership over the years notably the likes of Jeremy Garrett, Omari Glasgow, Ryan Hackett and many (Continued on page 73)
Air Services Limited joins the line-up of sponsors for Guyana Cup With one of the most trusted names in Guyana’s aviation, Air Services Limited (ASL) has extended financial support to Guyana Cup 2022 horserace meet scheduled for Sunday 14 August at the Rising Sun Turf Club. With over fifty years of experience in the aviation industry, Air Services Limited has an impeccable track record in safety, efficiency and reliability. ASL has been an avid supporter of many local charities and has now made it o ff i c i a l t h a t t h e y a r e pledging support to the improvement of Horse Racing in Guyana. The Horse Racing event, with a 14-year track record of success, was the brain child of a humble man from th
Coco Gauff was knocked out in the third round. (John Walton/PA)
off in the league stage in each area association and the winners will advance to the national playoffs. Those associations are Rupununi Football Association, Upper Demerara FA, East Bank FA, G e o rg e t o w n FA , E a s t Demerara FA, Berbice FA, We s t D e m e r a r a FA , Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon FA, Bartica FA and teams in Region #1.
Bush Lot, Nasrudeen “Senior” Mohamed. Horse Racing is hailed “The Sport of Kings” and is viewed w orldw ide, generating billions through direct and online gambling. To execute an event on this scale is extremely costly and time consuming, especially after a two year pause due to the Covid19 pandemic. The challenges that warranted immediate attention was the terrain for parking, the track and the wood stands and rails. With the upgrades of more than fifty percent complete, the venue is expected to be completely transformed come race day. T h u s f a r, o v e r 3 0 thoroughbred horses have been imported, with an additional 5 carded for importation by new Horse
owners making the competition even more exciting. For years local stables have been clamoring at the doors of The Jumbo Jet Racing Committee for more international horses that will raise the bar for the races. When contacted Captain Mazahar Ally indicated, “Our company has supported countless charity cases across Guyana and we are proud to support Guyana Cup. Who knows maybe next year ASL might enter the arena. Horse Racing has grown tremendously in Guyana and as a result more jobs will be created. With Guyana’s rapid growth more expats and foreigners are expected to attend these events therefore increasing foreign exchange and revenue from concessioners
at the event. Also through social media the country’s talents with jockeys will be showcased. So of course we will support Guyana Cup 2022 one hundred percent this year.” The countdown has begun to the biggest Horse Racing Event in the Caribbean carded for Sunday 14 August at the Rising Sun turf Club. Over $30,000,000 in cash and prizes are to be won so this year the competition is expected to be stiff. According to the organising team, “Get there before noon to avoid the rush and remember indoor parking is available for over 500 cars. Let’s all join together for this spectacular presentation, Guyana Cup 2022!” th
PAGE 76
Kaieteur News
Tickets go on sale for West Indies vs Bangladesh clash at Providence
T
he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will be hosting four international cricket matches between the West Indies and Bangladesh on behalf of Cricket West Indies (CWI) in July 2022. Both teams will showcase a number of talented players and all matches will be played at the fastdrying Guyana National Stadium, Providence. This will allow patrons an opportunity to see the final T20 series match from 13:30 hours on Thursday July 7, 2022 and three One Day International matches (ODI) on Sunday July 10, 2022, Wednesday July 13, 2022 and Saturday July 16, 2022. All ODI matches commence at 09:30 hours. Spectators are encouraged to attend the games and to support Government’s intent to drive a sport tourism culture. The two competitive teams are expected to light up Providence within the usual cricket carnival atmosphere, which will be complemented with fascinating music systems. Also patrons are expected to adhere to the health, safety and prohibited guidelines. Government’s existing policies on Covid-19 safety measures remain in effect, as well as
the usual prohibited items. These include but are not limited to firearms, weapons, knives and imitation weapons, fireworks, explosives and flammable items, mace, and gas containers. They also include no glass bottles and illegal items such drugs or narcotics; animals, tripods for cameras and video cameras or camcorders. Additional restricted items also include collapsible personal umbrellas, where, large umbrellas are not permitted, although 12 x 12 x12 coolers will be allowedsubject to check prior to entrance into the stadium. Authorized for entry include person’s own food stuff with plastic cutlery, soft drinks and water in plastic bottles, flasks, cameras for recreational and personal noncommercial use only, also balls, bats, banners and flags up to a maximum size of 1.5m 1m (5’x3’) provided that in the opinion of the management they are not vulgar nor dangerous to others. Patrons can purchase tickets online at windiestickets.com or at the Guyana Cricket Board Office Regent Road Bourda from Saturday July 2, 2022. Tickets will be on sale daily from 08:00 hours to 17:00 hours.
Sunday July 03, 2022
British Grand Prix: Carlos Sainz on pole in thrilling wet qualifying Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz snatched pole position for the British Grand Prix. (Getty Images)
B
BC Sport Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz snatched pole position for the British Grand Prix from Max Verstappen with the last lap of a thrilling wet qualifying session. Ve r s t a p p e n l o o k e d favourite for pole in treacherous conditions at Silverstone after topping the first two sessions. But Sainz snuck ahead by just 0.072 seconds at the end of the top-10 shootout, with his Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc in third. Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton took fifth, behind Red Bull’s Sergio Perez. Sainz, who had been slower than Leclerc for much of the session, giggled in disbelief over the team radio as he was told he had taken pole. “I didn’t expect that one,” he laughed, saying how difficult conditions had been. It was another strong performance from the Spaniard after he pushed Verstappen all the way for victory in Canada last time out, losing out by less than a second. Sainz was cheered by the huge Silverstone crowd as he began his qualifying interviews and said: “I was struggling with the standing water and it was easy to lose the car and lose the lap. “That didn’t feel too good but in the end it was pole position and a bit of a surprise.” The difficulty of the conditions was underlined by Verstappen making a couple of mistakes early in the final session, spinning
out of Stowe on his first flying lap, and then misjudging his braking and running too deep into Vale on his next. When he started to put it together after that, the Dutchman looked in imperious form, but a yellow flag forced him to back off on his final lap and deprived him of the chance to try to snatch pole back from Sainz. “It was raining, drying, you had to be on the track at the right time,” Verstappen said. “Overall the car was working really well. In Q3, it is always a bit of lottery. I got a bit hindered on my final lap with the yellow flag but to be on the front row is good for us, and we have a good race car in the dry and in the wet.” Leclerc, too, had a spin and his was costly, as it came on his final lap and he, like Verstappen was pushing to overhaul Sainz. “Happy for Carlos,” Leclerc said. ‘He did a great job today, I spun in the last lap. I knew it was the lap I had to put everything together and I didn’t so I didn’t deserve to be on pole.” Leclerc has admitted this weekend that he needs to win on Sunday to revive his title hopes after seeing his earlyseason title race lead turn into a 49-point deficit to Verstappen in recent races. A mini Mercedes revival Mercedes appear to have made a step forward at Silverstone after introducing some upgrades aimed at i n c r e a s i n g t h e i r c a r ’s downforce. Hamilton was in the hunt at the front for much of
qualifying, vying with Verstappen and Leclerc, with team-mate George Russell also in the frame. But both slipped back in the final seconds of qualifying and Hamilton ended up a second off pole further than it had looked like he would be. Hamilton said: “Oh man I was having so much fun out there. I was fighting for the front row and I knew I had the pace. The team told me to back off on the second to last lap and push on the last lap but it rained more on the last lap and it was slower. But that’s racing.” Russell was in eighth, less than 0.2secs behind Hamilton, saying he had the pace to be fourth or fifth but had made a mistake on his final lap. In between them were strong performances from Lando Norris in the McLaren and Fernando Alonso, who followed up his brilliant front-row qualifying in the Alpine in Canada with another powerful showing. Chinese Zhou Guanyu, impressive throughout in the Alfa Romeo, was ninth, with team-mate Valtteri Bottas down in 12th. And there was another standout performance from the man in 10th place. Canadian Nicholas Latifi not only equalled his best ever qualifying performance in the Williams, but did so despite being deprived of the major car upgrade that was put only on team-mate Alex Albon’s car. Albon was knocked out in the first session and lines up 16th.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
Sports Ministry programme sees basketball hoops installed at Ithaca Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, the Honourable Charles Ramson Jr, continues to see his vision for a transformation in the sports landscape in Guyana moving step by step. Latest step in the forward march of the ministry resulted in the Volunteer Apprenticeship Community Support programme, a creation of the Ministry, continuing its envisioned mandate of municipal advancement. This saw the installation of high-quality Mega Slam branded basketball hoops in the West Berbice community of Ithaca. The initiative, which directly correlates, and aligns with the Government o f G u y a n a ’s i n t e n d e d developmental sphere, was realized on Sunday June 26th 2022, as a cadre of officials, led by the architect of the enterprise, the Honourable Minister Ramson Jr, descended on the burgeoning facility. Other persons who made the journey to the West Berbice village included Director of Youth, Mr. Suresh Singh, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Kashif M u h a m m a d , Commissioners of the National Sports Commission Mr. Dellon Davidson and Ms. Cristy Campbell, and National Security Advisor, Captain Gerry Gouveia. Rehabilitative works, which were aided following the welcomed involvement o f t h e c o m m u n i t y ’s populace, were immediately undertaken at the venue. This encompassed the casting of the playing surface, reconstruction, and painting of both bleachers, painting of the washroom facilities, as well as landscaping, and clearing of the nearby drains. Ithaca, as the latest beneficiary of the programme which is yet to reach its pinnacle, is evidence and testament of the current administration’s emphasis on community
empowerment, which is a fundamental tenet and important facet of social cohesion. The pledged, and eventual delivery of the basketball systems, is once again indicative of Minister Ramson Jr’s commitment not only to the development o f G u y a n a ’s s p o r t i n g landscape, but the advancement of the nation’s human capital, which is its most important natural resource. A release noted that, Sport is a catalyst for not only individual advancement but community progression, and initiatives akin to the Volunteer Apprenticeship Community Support programme, once allowed to foster, has the capacity to not only alter the local backdrop from a sporting standpoint, but a collective, and societal perspective. This approach, and overall ideology of Minister Ramson Jr, is merely a byproduct, and derivative of the Government of Guyana’s objective in nurturing social cohesion in every sector, with sport being historically recognized on the international scene as a unifying force, and bridge amongst all creeds. After all, Minister R a m s o n J r. , a n d t h e Government of Guyana, is cognizant that social cohesion is the process of building common values, and communities, which enables the populace to be part of a fellowship, a common enterprise, and that they are members of a collective humanity. This is essentially relevant more than ever, as the Government of Guyana cultivates its current platform of ‘One Guyana’, which is a direct representation, and a localized interpretation of Social Cohesion, in a bid to foster solidarity and an overarching sense of belonging amongst all groups in society.
PAGE 77
Kaieteur News
PAGE 78
Sunday July 03, 2022
Twenty-eight teams to participate at Canada Cup 1 According to the President of the Ontario Twilight Softball Cricket League (OTSCL) Azeem Khan, 28 teams are set to participate at the forthcoming Canada Cup 1 which is slated for
September 2-4. The OTSCL will be hosting the mega softball event and Khan stated that he is anxious for the inauguration of the tournament. Previously the Toronto
Cup was held under the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs for three tournaments that ran every two years. “We [are] excited to run off the three-day softball tournament come
September; it will certainly be a thrilling softball event and we at the OTSCL are working assiduously to get things in shape, Khan, a Canada-based Guyanese, related. Khan also took the
opportunity to call on teams from Canada, Guyana, Orlando, Florida and New York to finalise their participation by completing their registration. Khan commented that the deadline for the registration process is July 11th. The tournament will have four categories: Over50 (Legends), Over-40 (Masters), and Open, both Flip and Round-Arm bowling. Khan informed too that lots of trophies and cash incentives are at stake and is promising cricket enthusiasts this will definitely be a showpiece. Meanwhile, there will be a plethora of former Guyanese cricketers on show in the various categories and some of them are: Sunil Dhaniram, Troy
Azeem Khan Gobin, Damodar Daesrath, Shaun Deonandan, Rovendra Mandolall, Azib Ali Hanif, Shiv Seeram, Zaheer Haniff, Dillon H e y l i g e r, H e m n a r i n e Chattergoon, Devon Ramnauth, Krishna Deosaran, Harrienarine Chattergoon among others.
USATF National Youth Outdoor Championship… Kunusasha Medas-King displays a few of her accolades won at the event.
Medas-King strikes gold thrice K
unusasha Medas-King had another dominant performance on the track when she recently competed at the United States of America Track & Field (USATF) National Yo u t h O u t d o o r Championship at the Icahn Stadium in Manhattan, New York. She finished the event with her gold winning percentage at a 100% after recording wins in the Women’s 9 – 10 years 400m, 800m and 1500m races. The Midas Touch-athlete clocked a time of 1:04.90s in
the shortest distance to finish ahead of Sophia Germain (1:07.58s) and Shanelle Rivera (1:08:37s), in that order. In the 800m distance, Medas-King won in a time of 2:33.79s while Zoey Warmsley (2:38.09s) and Lindsey Carney (2:39.00s) crossed the line in second and third, respectively. The 1500m was won in comfortable fashion like her other two races as Kunusasha ran a victorious time of 5:19.19s to beat Aria Boschen (5:22.37s) into second, while Mariam Wajid was third, when she stopped the clock at 5:26.01s.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 03, 2022
PAGE 79
Guyanese motorcyclist Leroy Cort records good showing in recent US meet Guyanese motorcycle racer, LeRoy Cort, who has been living and racing in the USA representing the Golden Arrowhead to the fullest extent, but had returned home during the recent Covid-19 period, made his first trip back to competitive racing after the almost two-year hiatus and recorded a very good showing despite some ‘rust’. During the weekend of June 17-19th 2022, Cort sojourned to the US for the Loudon Classics in New Hampshire, USA. Despite facing sponsorship challenges, Cort received a welcome boost from several persons including Mrs. Rechana Rahaman-Cort from Eat In’s Snackette, Mr. Tariq Kooblall from 10 to Midnight Bar at Vreed en H o o p a n d M r. J o e Ammendolia from Antham Racing Suits, along with help from his parents. In a recap of his journey, Cort informed, “I haven’t ridden in over a year so it was so much moving pieces to organize here in the US while being in Guyana. It
LeRoy Cory aboard the blue machine during action in the US. was a long journey to get here after I decided I would participate with the encouragement of my friends and family. Due to Covid restrictions in the past few years racing had to take a back seat and I had to focus more on surviving. I moved back to Guyana and opened a food business in Georgetown which has now blossomed well. We recently opened a second location in Vreed en Hoop and it was a tremendous amount of effort and commitment to get it going. I had mentioned to the co-owners that I wished to return to racing one day since
motorcycle racing was a passion of mine and I was pretty good at it. They committed to aid in sponsoring me for the biggest event of the year in the Northeast.” “I arrived in the US at the end of May and begun dieting and training for the June 17th event. I took the 5 hour trip from N e w Yo r k t o N e w Hampshire and registered for 5 races. First race on June 18th was HEAVYWEIGHT Supersport, I managed a great start and held 3rd position for the entire race. Next came the Grand Prix,
and because I hadn’t taken part in any of the previous qualifying rounds I was slotted in the last row of the 22 rider grid. It was a most pit of adrenaline and motorcycles and I raced my heart out that Saturday and finished 9th overall, well outside the podium.” “On Sunday June 19th I entered three Unlimited motorcycle races aboard my 2015 Kawasaki ZX6 aka The Blue Dragon. These classes allow any motorcycle 6001000cc. I finished 3rd in Unlimited Supersport, received a DNF for the second race of the day because my motorcycle fairing came loose during a battle for 3rd and I was
LeRoy Cory (right) while in the United States. forced to pit in so not to be a rolling hazard to the rest of the riders. Last race of the day was the Unlimited SuperBike, I was able to secure a First place finish by a sizeable gap. Amazing way
to end the weekend,” Cort recounted. He further disclosed, “The event saw a few Caribbean racers repping Jamaica, Montserrat and the (Continued on page 73)
Spo
rts
GFF President Wayne Forde (left) accepts the cheque from Finance Control Manager of NAMILCO Fitzroy McLeod in the presence of representatives of both entities and players.
GFF NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour power National U-17 league to commence on July 9 Sports Ministry programme sees basketball hoops installed at Ithaca
Subrina Kissoon (right) Reservations Supervisor at Air Services Limited hands over their sponsorship to Irshad Mohamed the Guyana Cup Rep.
Air Services Limited joins the line-up of sponsors for Guyana Cup
A wet outfield delayed the toss at Windsor Park. (Walton)
Team Work makes Dreams Work: Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson (third from right) is joined by residents of Ithaca as they come together to put up basketball hoops in the Berbice community.
WI vs Ban match abandoned after rain breaks beat cut-off time
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.