Kaieteur News

AND PRODUCTION GUYANA LIMITED

STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

The financial statement submitted by ExxonMobil in which the 2% royalty Guyana receives is listed as an expense.

says:

Danuta Radzik, a citizen withanestablishedhistoryof rights advocacy since the 1970s,hasmovedtotheHigh Court, challenging the legality of two serving m e m b e r s o f t h e Environmental Assessment Board (EAB): Dr Mahendar Sharma and Mr Joslyn McKenzie,inrelationtotheir involvement in deliberating and deciding on appeals against the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) e x e m p t i o n o f t h e government’s 300 megawatt (MW) Power Plant for the GastoShoreProjectfroman Environmental Impact Assessment(EIA)

The 300 MW combined cycle power plant will be financed through a loan the government is seeking from the United States Export Import (EXIM) Bank that Guyanesewillhavetorepay ItisacomponentoftheGasto-Energy (GTE) project which will double the country’sdebtburden.

On February 10, 2023, the government appointed Sharma, who is Head of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and a Director of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), and McKenzie, who is Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources to serve as Chairmanandmemberofthe EAB,respectively.TheEAB is comprised of another government employee, Dr Garvin Cummings, making it a body comprised entirely ofgovernmentemployees.

The EAB held a public hearing on appeals against the EPA’s waiver of an EIA for the power plant project on March 22, 2023, amidst public outcry that Dr Sharma and Mr Mckenzie were in conflicts of interest and should recuse themselves On May 10, 2023, the EAB issued its decision upholding the EPA’swaiverofanEIA.

Thecourtdocumentfiled onMay22,2023,byDanuta Radzik, through her attorney, Mr MohamedAli, provides evidence of what appears to be Sharma and McKenzie’sblatantconflicts ofinterest,whichundermine theintegrityoftheEABand

CitizenfilesCourtactionagainstconflict ofinterestonEnvironmentalBoard

principles of the rule of law andgoodgovernance.

Radzik submitted 14 exhibitscontainingevidence of alleged conflicts of interest and actions she believeswereillegallytaken by Dr Sharma and Mr McKenzie.

The applicant is asking for declarations that Sharma and McKenzie’s specific duties as government employees are in direct and indirect conflict with their duties on the EAB and that theyillegallytookpartinthe deliberation and decision of the Board regarding the waiver of an EIA for the powerplant.

Furthermore,Radzikhas asked the High Court to order that all deliberations, hearings, submissions, and decisions taken by members oftheBoardinthematterof the EPA’s decision to waive an EIA for the 300 MW Natural Gas Power Plant Project are unlawful, null and void, and of no legal effect, pursuant to Section 8 of the Third Schedule to the Environmental Protection Act Cap. 20:05, and any furtherorotherordersasthe Courtmaydeemjust.

FUNCTIONS OFTHEEAB

The Environmental Protection Act, (EP Act) Cap 20:05, Section 11 mandates that the EPAmust ensure that an EIA is conducted for any activity that will “significantly” affect the environment

before granting an environmental permit. The EPActspecifiesthatimpacts on human beings and the natural environment constitute the scope of what mustbeassessed.TheEPAct specifies that whenever the Agencychoosestowaivethe requirement for an EIA, it mustpublishaPublicNotice notifying the public of its decision and providing the reasons justifying its decision. Further, the public must be given 30 days in which to object to the EPA’s decision by lodging an appealwiththeEAB.

Section 18 of the EPAct tasks the EAB with hearing appeals against decisions of the EPA to waive the requirementsforEIAswhen granting an environmental permit. In situations where an EIA is conducted, the EAB is also the body for appeals, tasked with deciding whether the EIAis acceptable, and an Environmental Permit shouldbegranted.TheEAB, therefore,playsanimportant appeal and review role. Its

independencefromanyform of external influence, with members capable of making impartial decisions and maintaining public trust in theirdecisions,iscrucial.

Section 8 of the Third Schedule of the EP Act addresses the importance of the EAB’s impartiality specifically by requiring:

“(1) Any member of the Board who has any interest, directly or indirectly, in any matterbeforetheBoard-(a) shall disclose the nature of hisinteresttotheBoard;and (b) shall not take part in any deliberation or decisions of theBoardwithrespecttothat matter.”

CONFLICTSOF INTEREST

S o o n a f t e r t h e

appointment of the threemember EAB in February 2023, the EAB published a noticeofaPublicHearingon the EPA’s decision to waive anEIAforthepowerplant.A considerable number of citizens and civil society organizations publicly objected to Dr Sharma and M r M c K e n z i e ’ s involvement in the power plantappealprocessbecause ofconflictsofinterest.

Concerned groups alleged that GPL, where Dr Sharma is a director, was involved in the application process for the power plant andwouldbethebeneficiary of power generated Further, Dr Sharma, as Head of Guyana’s Energy Agency, had an interest in seeing the

planned project come to fruition, and he had an additional conflict of interest inthematter,ashiswifewasa directorofGuyanaPowerand GasCompany,whichapplied fortheenvironmentalpermit They also alleged that Mr McKenzie was involved in administrating aspects of the Gas to Energy project at the Ministry of Natural Resources As Permanent SecretaryfortheMinistryhe has,amongotherthings,been involved in procurement processes for various consultants,studies,andbids forthedevelopmentofthegas project, and specifically components of the power plant,thatwerecoveredinthe application involved in the appealbeforetheEAB

Despite public outcry, neither Sharma nor McKenzie addressed the specific allegations before the statutory public hearing was held at Cara Lodge HotelonMarch22,2023.At thehearing,Ms.Radzik,and other citizens stated their objection to Sharma and McKenzie’sparticipationin Continuedonpage9

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Joslyn McKenzie

GEAHead and Chairman of the EAB, Dr. Mahendar Sharma

Kaieteur News

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

Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS

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

EDITORIAL

Prof. PLP Lumumba – a man for the people

Everynowandagain,amanofstaturegracestheworld with his presence. Though few and far between, they are cherishedfortheirfrankandfearlesstalk,theirhonestand heartfelt advocacy, and their well thought out and wise ways. Kenyan born Professor Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumbaissuchapersoninreallife.

Professor Lumumba is a leader, teacher, and speaker againstcorruptionandcorruptpoliticalleaders. Heshould know, for they are abundant in Africa, and which he has spoken about consistently and powerfully He scorns and mockssanctityofcontract,whenitripsthegutsoutofthose whoowngreatwealth. Hehasspokenofcontractsthatare parasitic,andwhatthepeoplemustdoaboutthem:itisto the local courts and international realms of jurisprudence, which must all be explored to the hilt, with many battles foughtpassionately Itcannotbeanyotherway,forwhen contractsareparasitic,theysucktheblood,theoxygen,and thelifeoutofthepeoplesofacountry

Parasitic contracts must be torn apart, trampled upon They must be nullified and shredded; nothing but terms and conditionsthataredistinctivelyfavourabletothecitizenswho own the wealth, are shareholders in it The courts must be pleadedbefore,pressed,pushedforrelieffromreprehensible andimpoverishingcontracts Andwhilethecourtsarebeing appealed to, Professor Lumumba also noted that the people who are plundered and pillaged ruthlessly must make their voicesheard,theirfeettramp,andtheirspiritssoarinresistance towhatenslavesthem,andendangersthem

ThiswisemanfromAfricabywayofKenyapointedout that the abominable apartheid system in SouthAfrica was thelawoftheland. Therewasthatlegalitythatcondemned millions of Black South Africans to modern day slavery, and it was sanctified. The Nazis in Germany, who were sticklersfordoingthingsbythebook,madesurethattheir many atrocities against humanity were sanctioned under the umbrellas of legal cover. They had a justification for anybarbarity,anditwasbindingonthosewhohadthegreat misfortunetofallintotheirhands.

To that we add that the hallowed Constitution of the United States of America at one time provided the legal architecture for counting human beings as property By that venerable constitutional contract with the American people,therewasthesacredright,thesacrosanctpower,to holdcaptivethosewhowerehauledoutinchainsfromthe so-calledDarkHeartofAfrica. Totheircredit,Americans foughtawartonullifythatodiousinstitutionwhereoneset of fair people held dominance and property rights over a darkerhuedgroupofpeople. Itwasalllegal,contractually bound,andsosacredastobeinviolable.

Guyanesearegoingtohavetosummontheintensityand the energy to stand against and nullify all contracts that enslave and impoverish them, and the first one that must (must) fall is the nauseating ExxonMobil oil contract. Guyanese,soonerthanlater,willhavetodotheirpatriotic duty and rise up, and rail against, this abomination that yokes all citizens to a destiny that is dark, sickly, and grievous. Since national political leaders have willingly handcuffed themselves, and shackled their minds, to what benefits ExxonMobil, and other voracious foreign exploitersoflikekind,thentheGuyanesepeoplearegoing tohavetoconfronttheirown,bringthemtotheirsenses,or outofpower Insomemanner,andtosomedegree,theseare among the tangible and viable expressions that Professor Lumumba recommends as courses of actions that should becomeamustforGuyanese ExxonMobilisnotgoingtogive upanythingwillingly,theGuyanesepeoplewillhavetoforceit Guyaneseleadershavesofarfailedtomanifestanyinterest,any strength,anyboldnesstodowhatisrightbythepeoplewhoput theminoffice,soonceagaintheGuyanesepeoplewillhaveto actontheirowntogetwhatisduetothemfromwhatthey own. TheExxonMobilcontractmustbenullified,itmust be eradicated, because it is more than a disease. It is a plagueonGuyanese.

Georgetown, Linden, NewAmsterdam may do better under PPPcontrol of councils

DEAREDITOR

ThePPPseemspoisedto capture a historic landslide victory in the upcoming LocalGovernmentElections (LGE). The PNC, battered by a leadership crisis and lack-lustre campaigns, has alreadylostdismally,unable to field candidates in many areas. The icing on the cake for the PPPwill be victories in Georgetown, New AmsterdamandLinden.

All things considered, I would say these three municipalities would be better off under councils in which the PPP controls a majority.Someonesaid,“the PPP at its worst will still be better than the PNC at its best.”

Georgetown under continuous PNC control has been an abysmal failure. Their trademark has been a ‘stink and dutty’, congested city where lawlessness abounds.Haditnotbeenfor ongoing rescues by the PPP Government, the city would

havecollapsed.

Central Government has had to intervene and build/repair roads, do flood abatement, do ongoing bailouts and pay the city’s debts for trash collection, etc City Hall became decrepit in front of our own eyes, and everything needs upgrades and fixing Tr a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability have been missing. If there is a PPPcontrolled Council, you can expect that the Government will make sure the Mayor and Council are well supported and resourced to show that under the PPP, Georgetown made dramatic progress.That seems to be a win-win for the citizens and the city. What is there to lose?

N o w, m i g h t b e Georgetown’sbestchanceto change the direction of their city, under PPP leadership. While there are a few independent candidates worthy of consideration, it’s

afightbetweenthePNCand PPP So, the people of Georgetownmustconsiderif they want more of the same or if they want dramatic change under a PPPcontrolled Council with a diverselistofCandidates.In Guyana, the Government playsanoversizedroleinthe economy Alignment with central Government is essential for resource acquisition.

AlreadytheGovernment is involved in numerous projects across the City and these are likelyto accelerate dramatically under a PPP CityCouncil.

Thesamecanbesaidfor thetownsofLindenandNew Amsterdam. The PPP has been working valiantly to woo these two towns with severalprojectsandwinning new supporters. The PPP Candidates seem quite energized and are working the streets to win hearts and minds. The PPP claims it is winning over many PNC

supportersintheseareas.

Truth be told, the Government had been runningasfastaspossibleto build roads, bridges, parks, health clinics, and various infrastructural projects People are seeing roads where there were no roads before They are seeing bridges being repaired or built. They are now getting Titlesforland,gettinghouse lots and assistance to build theirhomes.

The 10-day job programmeseemstobeabig hit with people who did not haveafull-timejobbefore.

Now, the Government hasannouncedtheywillgive out cash grants just days before the LGE elections. My prediction is that if it does not win outright, the PPP will win more seats in G e o rg e t o w n , N e w Amsterdam, and Linden

Thevotershavethefinalsay WewillknowonJune12.

Sincerely,

Dr JerryJailall

Black water shrimp production must be embraced by Guyanese

DEAREDITOR

,

In the midst of all the ‘fuss’of Local Government Election and ExxonMobil court battles, many are missing some important pieces of news. So, I take great pride and joy in reminding Guyanese that “Guyana’s black water shrimp (Peneausschmitti) production has increased significantly when compared with that of 2022 ” This is indeed something quite significant and deserves attention and celebration.

AccordingtoAgriculture MinisterZulfikarMustapha, “For this year, our farmers wereabletoproduce182.89 metric tons (182,890 kilograms) of black water shrimp in the first quarter, earning over $274 million. (and) When we look at the production figures for the first quarter of 2022, we are seeinganincreaseofalmost 50%.” Wow! What is impressive is that this venture is a novelty in Guyana, and its success so far breathes of careful p l a n n i n g a n d implementation It also augurswellforthefuture.In fact, the Minister added the reminder that “This is in keeping with our goals for the industry and a testament to the Government’s commitment to increasing local production, lowering the food import bill, and

increasing both our production and export capacities. We are working towards producing 1 5 million kilograms annually bytheyear2025.”

Editor, I have a few comments to make regarding this wonderful development.

First,itisthat‘wecannot go wrong when it comes to ‘shrimp farming’ At the economic level, it creates jobs and supports local economies by providing a marketforlocalfarmersand fishermen The double positive is that shrimp farmingisalsoaneasything tograsp.Asamatteroffact, they grow quickly, which means that farmers can generate a good return on their investment relatively quickly This, as we all know, will boost food security, by providing a source of protein that is in highdemandworldwide.

As a caveat, I am not going to be naïve, and I know that the Guyana Government is alert to ensure that the venture will continue along the lines of sustainability, as best practices can help to protect and restore coastal ecosystems, such as mangrove forests, which provide important ecologicalservices.

At the nutritional level, shrimp consumption proves to be an excellent source of

MoreQuestionsthanAnswers about‘Smallie’sEscapeandDeath

vitamin B12, providing 1.4mcg or 59% of the daily value(DV).Shrimpisalsoa good source of phosphorus, providing201mgor16%of theDV Shrimpalsoprovide calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and selenium, and I need not go on, as texts are fraught with thiskindofinformation.

My hope is that the goal of the Government, towards having the programme replicated across several regionsinthecountrywillbe pursued relentlessly The wordinthepublicdomainis that (after assisting farmers with constructing ponds in Region Six), “ we’ve startedpreliminaryworksin Region Five We’re also looking at other places like RegionTwoandsoon.

Success breathes its kind, so it is time for Guyanesefishermenandsea w o r k e r s t o t h i n k innovatively and capitalize on better possibilities, in terms of Guyana’s geographyandweather The good thing is that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government is in partnership with United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to enhance shrimp production in Guyana and several other Caribbean states. It is time that more comeonboard.

Yourstruly,

H.BSingh

The PNC is in a quandary

Recently, Chief Justice Roxane George threw out two matters brought before her by APNU/PNC Chief Scrutineer Carol Joseph

Actingonbehalfofherparty, Joseph contends that the list was so flawed that it n e c e s s i t a t e s t h e postponement of the 2023 LGE.

Well, I am not so sure where this “Oil and gas comedian” got her legal advice, but the point is, that whichsheisaskingthecourt todo,shouldhavebeendealt with a long time ago during the Claims and objections period.

Here Joseph and her representatives should have presented their evidence, whatever that is, and something they deliberately shirked away from. In this regard, the PNC does not havealegallegtostandon.

What The PNC is not telling us is that they are unpreparedfortheupcoming LGE, and seeing there is nothing positive that the partycanoffertheelectorate, they were all the more flatfooted and totally out of sorts.Evenmorerevealingis themassiveshowofsupport for the governing party, The PNC have become mortally afraidofTheElections. They see a shocking defeat steering them in the

DEAREDITOR, Criminality has returned with a vengeance under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) regime We are witnessing an escalation in white collar crime, government excesses and extra judicial killings; the return of criminal activities ontheground,suchasbrazen gunviolencemuchofwhich are associated with the underworld Finding the criminals is not just about whocommittedthecrimebut finding the engineers and architectsofthecrimes.

The killing of Royden ‘Smallie’ Williams at the hands of the police, even though a convicted criminal and many may find relief in hisdeath,hasleftusnonethe wiser as to his contact, modus operandi, and those with whom he associated with, leading up to and after hisescape.

And whilst the families, whose loved ones were murdered at the hands of Williams, may find some

solace from his death, all should be reminded of the sageadviceofthelateformer Chancellor of the Judiciary, and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, KeithMassiah,S.C.

In his 2005 Minority Report on the Gajraj Commission of Inquiry into the phantom squad killings, hehadthistosay:

“Killings, however reasonable and expedient in theopinionofmanypersons of goodwill, ought not to be countenanced Even the alleged serial killer, the persistent rapist and the paedophile, detestable as those pariahs are, enjoy the fundamental right to a fair hearing and the full protection of due process. Persons who are thought to havecommittedcrimesmust bearrested,chargedandtried in a court of law. Nothing lesscanbeaccepted.”

Incaseoftheescapee,the State had a duty to capture him alive. There is no additional crime fighting

gains killing Williams, besides the satisfaction, some might feel seeing his deadbodyontheground.

Dead men tell no tales and what society has been served to placate concerns about the escapee’s whereabouts and how he managed to escape, was his headonaplatter Weareback inthebarbaricandmedieval times We are in deep dangerous water that will spare no one from its powerful and treacherous current.

Wehavenowreachedthe point where questions need tobeansweredastowhether the government and Police Force have any intention in fighting crime through a process of collecting evidence rather than destroyinglivesthatcanhelp generateevidence.

Weareseeingthepeople who were pulling the levels of power, both in government and private sector,duringthecrime

(Continuedonpage06)

face, and as such they are trying every known shenanigan to avert the disaster

In addition to their predicament is the fact that there is going to be a grand leadership crisis within that party, with defeat comes a call for Norton’s head; he willhavetogo!So,ThePNC is in a quandary with which they cannot get themselves o u t o f

NeilAdams

Small-scale farmers receive one-time cash grant, supplies

…through GoG, FAO and WFPcollaboration

Small-scale farmers were offered farm input suppliesandaone-timecash grant through the ‘TwentyFive by 2023 Initiative’, a collaborative programme involvingtheGovernmentof Guyana, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Programme(WFP).

Accordingtoastatement issuedbytheUnitedNations (UN) Guyana office, the Government of Guyana, through its National

Pathway for Food Systems

Transformation, is strategically poised to bolster rural livelihoods, diversify the economy, and advance the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)’s regional food security

a g e n d a v i a t h e implementation of the ‘Twenty-Five by 2025 Initiative’.

In alignment with this nationalendeavour,theFood

a n d A g r i c u l t u r e Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the

World Food Programme (WFP) have extended their support through the Joint

SDG Fund, facilitating the government’s mission to expand social protection in

Guyana.

Aspartofthisinitiative, farm input supplies and a one-time cash grant were offered to smallholder farmers and participants of ongoing socio-economic empowerment programmes throughout the country The project was coordinated by the Office of the United N a t i o n s R e s i d e n t Coordinator to foster coherence and collaboration between the two UN agencies, support efforts to enhance inter-governmental coordination, and amplify the impact of national initiatives, the UN office said. CashTransfers

Inaconcertedeffortwith the World Food Programme (WFP), the Ministry of Human Services and Social

Security (MHSSS), dispensed a one-off cash granttoparticipantsengaged in the Women Innovation and Investment Programme (WIIN), or the ‘WIIN in Business’initiative.

This initiative is designed to empower

year-oldfemalefromRegion 3.Another participant, a 31year-old from Region 4, expressed gratitude, stating, “I am thankful for the cash grant which will enable me to start the business earlier thananticipated.”

Besides providing cash assistance, the WFP sustained its collaboration with the Ministry, offering technical assistance and support in programme lifecycle management, specifically in areas such as vulnerabilityassessmentand mapping, beneficiary targeting, reconciliation and reporting, and postdistribution monitoring of theactivity

The programme also probedpotentialavenuesfor sustained engagement with the Ministry and other stakeholders, focusing on the crucial long-term capacity-building needs of small-scalefarmers,farming groups, and associations with women participants from the Ministry’s i n n o v a t i o n a n d

women and girls by equipping them with the requisite knowledge and skills to augment their economic engagement within their respective communities.

As a crucial component of the programme, the Ministry conducted a workshop focused on businessskillsdevelopment, imparting ractical competencies such as drafting business plans, networking, and finance procurement.Encouragedto conceive proposals for income-generating activities, the participants subsequentlyreceivedacash grant from the Ministry, supported by the WFP, to address their immediate needs and foster their proposed ventures

Approximately US$79,000 was distributed among 225 participants nationwide, intending to generate economic opportunities that enhance community livelihoodsandresilience.

“With the cash grant money,Iwillseektoexpand mybusiness,”declareda46-

entrepreneurial skills developmentprogramme.

“IamthankfulbecauseI learnt to save, do a budget and calculate a profit,” shared a 59-year-old food vendorfromRegion3.

A g r i c u l t u r a l Investments

The FAO, with the backing of the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI), the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), conducted a two-day workshop. This event was tailored to equip farmers with knowledge on new and cost-effective feed and fertilizer alternatives, thereby boosting production and productivity The workshop was attended by approximately 19 farmers from17communitiesand23 extension officers from five coastal regions supporting livestock, rice, cash crops, androotsandtubersfarmers.

NormanAlves,afarmer ofcashcrop,riceandground

(Continuedonpage64)

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud presents a cash grant to a participant.

Jaikumarie Persaud receiving her certificate from Dr. Gillian Smith, FAO Representative

Glenn Lall exposes Jagdeo’s ‘sinister whirlwind’ of doublespeak

Fa i r - o i l - d e a l advocate and businessman, GlennLallhascalledonVice President, Bharrat to step down from office or be removed, accusing the former president of poorly managing the oil and gas sector and also constantly misleading citizens about same.

Mr Lall, who is also publisher of the Kaieteur News said Jagdeo cannot be trusted, exposing instances oftheVP'sdoublespeak.

Jagdeo has been accused of championing the cause of ExxonMobil over Guyana, although the American oil giant has thus far refused to renegotiate a lopsided oil pactitsignedwiththeformer APNU+AFCGovernment.

ItisnotthefirsttimeLall has called for the removal of Jagdeo Several other Opposition spokespersons havealsomadesimilarcalls.

Speaking in one of his recent TikTok presentations, Mr Lall said every citizen must listen to Jagdeo and assess whether he should still be sitting at his desk as a so called "defender and protectorofGuyana."

He noted that before Justice Sandil Kissoon delivered his landmark ruling compelling the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure ExxonMobil gives Guyana unlimited parent guarantee in the event of an oil spill here, he (Lall) had asked Jagdeo at a news conference on March 3, 2023 about the veryissue.

In his response Jagdeo said that he had agreed with Mr Lall on the urgency of having such guarantee and thathehadevenstressedthis

Two

to the EPA, saying they should insist on a deadline for ExxonMobil to provide suchaguarantee.

"However, now that Justice Kissoon has since ordered Exxon to provide Guyana with that same Parent Company Guarantee that Jagdeo and his EPA didn't get until today to safeguard Guyana and the region, the same Jagdeo has appealed the decision. Man, on hearing that judge's decision, within hours, Jagdeo instructed the EPAto appeal it. A few days later, he went further to get the Statealso,tofileanappealto that full protection the court ordered for Guyana. Now you tell me, if Jagdeo was honest, if Jagdeo was truthful, when he said umpteen times, he is working towards protecting this nation with that Parent Company Guarantee. Tell me if this man is not a sellout -saying one thing yesterday to the nation and meaning something else in hisheart,"Lallsaid.

He rhetorically asked whether Jagdeo should ever be trusted "with our future andthatofthisregion?"

"He nor the EPA didn't get it, the Judge ordered it, then he turned around and instructed the EPA and the State to appeal the Judge's decisionprotectingus."

In the judgment handed down on May 3, 2023, Justice Kissoon ruled that Exxon's affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) is inbreachofitspermitwhich, in the court's view, unreservedly calls for unlimited insurance protection in the event of an oilspill.

The Judge also issued an Order of Mandamus directing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to have EEPGL produce on or before June 10, 2023, the unlimited liability Parent Company Guarantee Agreement and/or unlimited liability Affiliate Company Guaranteefromaninsurance company with standing and repute that equates to Grade A Plus. Failure to comply will see the permit being suspended.

But in making the case for the government to appeal the decision, Jagdeo told reporters at a May 4, 2023 press conference: "we all want to ensure that as a country,inthecaseofaspill, and hopefully it never happens, that we have adequate resources to cover all of the liabilities associatedwiththat…Sowe all want this. But we also can'tbeshrillorcapriciousin our dealings, particularly at the level of our regulatory agencies to get that outcome.”

Jagdeo said it is critical that the government pursues

diligently and professionally in its efforts to get insurance coverage that will meet all the circumstances should there be an adverse event offshore.

He also said it is crucial for institutions to act in a manner where decisions are not made on the premise of economicnationalism.

Jagdeo also said it is incumbent on the courts to produce judgments that are well reasoned, adding that theEPA'seffortsonsecuring variousformsofinsurancein the oil sector should not be overlooked.

The Vice President said the regulatory body has been indiscussionsforoverayear now with Exxon to secure a US$2B parent guarantee for the Stabroek Block. He said those discussions concluded recently

He also noted that the EPA has so far secured a US$600M insurance package from EEPGL, the premium for which is being paid using revenues earned from the sale of Guyana's oil resources. If that insurance premium is increased, he said it is Guyana that ultimately pays. He further noted that the EPA can liquidate EEPGL's assets if needed to cover costs relating to an oil spill. He said the Exxon subsidiary nowhasUS$6BtoUS$8Bin assets based on its balance sheet.

J a g d e o s a i d t h e foregoing therefore arms G u y a n a w i t h t h r e e mechanisms that can be applied to cover the expenses associated with clean up, restoration and compensationforanoilspill. He also refuted claims or contentions that government

should secure unlimited insurance coverage from Exxon. “What would be the premium for this unlimited insurance?” asked the official at his press conference. He said, “There is nothing like that in the worldofinsurance.

You can have coverage but even then, there is a definedrisk.”

Based on the foregoing grounds, the Vice President is of belief that the recent High Court judgment is thereforeflawedandmustbe appealedbytheEPA.

Meanwhile, Jagdeo during a May 25, 2023 press conferencewasaskedbythis newspaper in the event of an oil spill offshore Guyana, what will the Government of Guyana (GoG) do to ensure thatGuyanesedonothaveto footthebill.

The Vice President responded, “The thing is that, you're asking me a hypothetical question ” However, he explained that looking at what has happened globally with other countries when it comestooilspill,mostofthe US-billions of dollars that countries get are from taking the oil companies to court and winning the case. He continued:“theydidn'tcome because the companies are voluntary, even in the US (United States of America) and in the UK (United Kingdom). So I see figures quoted (US) $85B and (US) $50B and if you look at it, it wasn't for the cleaning up of t h e s p i l l b u t t h e compensation and a lot of those didn't originate because of guarantees they emergefromcourtcases.”

Jagdeo also said:

“whatever guarantee Exxon gives at the end of the day it comes back to we will pay for it.” The Vice President explained that he expects there would be litigations andthatishowheanticipates it would be dealt with.At his press conference, Jagdeo admitted that oil and gas companies are not altruistic. “They are not in this for the good of mankind they are here to make money and it's as simple as that they come to make money from the country,”hesaid.

Reacting to the VP's comments Lall questioned: "Thismanheadgood,should this man still be sitting a day more in that chair? You tell me."

Speaking directly to citizens Lall said: "I told you people many times, I don't trust a word, much less a sentence out of Jagdeo's mouth and a few people are upset with me for saying that. I am so happy that his words and actions are revealing the nature of who this man, Bharat Jagdeo reallyis.”

Two miners, Osborne and Collis Fredricks, were killed on Friday after the truck they were traveling in toppleddownahillalongthe Issano Trail, Mazaruni Otherpassengersinthetruck werealsoinjured.

According to reports, the accident occurred sometime around 08:30hrs at 14 Miles Issano Trail, and involved motor lorry GVV 7484 owned and driven by 63year-old Allen Wilson and eightotheroccupants.

The occupants were 24-

year-old gold miner Ryan Herand of Lima Sands Essequibo,41-year-oldAbar Barker of Lot 1 Good Hope, EastCoastDemerara(ECD), 26-year-old gold miner

Kelron Jones, 53-year-old gold miner Joeseph Sahoye of Lot 5 Zeelugt East Bank Essequibo (EBE), 38-yearold Shawn Pedro of Four Miles Potaro Road, Bartica, 19-year-old gold miner

Dexter Bruton, 26-year-old gold miner Osborne Fredricks of Wakapoa, Lower Pomeroon, and 31-

year-old gold miner Collis Fredricks of Wakapoa, who were all seated at the back in thetrayofthelorry

It was reported to the police that the truck was travelingnorthalongthetrail and was ascending a hill when the driver lost control of the truck which ended up turning turtle on its left side. As a result, the occupants fell onto the trail and the truck ended up pinning Osborne and Collis Fredricks.

All the occupants were

picked up by police and takentotheBarticaRegional Hospital where Pedro, Bruton, Sahoye, Jones and Baker were seen and examined by a doctor on duty who treated them for minor laceration about their bodies Reports are that Osborne and Collis Fredricks were pronounced deadonarrival.

Policesaidthedriverwas served with a notice of Intended Prosecution and is in custody assisting with the investigation.

A youth was on Friday caughtoncameraattackinga school boy outside of the Canje Secondary School, East Berbice- Corentyne, RegionSix.

K a i e t e u r N e w s understands that attacker is reportedly a student of the sameschoolbutatthetimeof the attack, he was not wearing the school's uniform The cell phone recorded video showed the attacker calling the victim names and pushing him to the ground before an adult

intervenedtosavehim.

The child got up and walkedtowardsacarandgot in but the attacker ran to a nearby stand and armed himselfwithacutlass.Heran towards the vehicle and tried to pull the school boy out of the car while firing chops withcutlass.

Public-spirited citizens rushed to rescue the child and managed pull the attacker away from the car Luckily the child was not injured Investigations are ongoing.

miners die in Issano Trail crash, others injured Youth caught on camera attacking school child with cutlass

Businessman and Publisher of Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Coaches are not the answer

So the West Indies cricket team now has two new white and red ball coaches and as much as six assistant coaches. But not manypeopleareenthusiastic thatthiswillmakemuchofa difference to the team’s fortunes.

The senior male West Indies team has had a string of coaches over the past 30 yearsandthishasdonelittle t o b e t t e r t e a m ’ s performance. Cricket West Indies has tried Rohan Kanhai, Andy Roberts,

Malcolm Marshall, Viv Richards ( interim), Roger Harper, Gus Logie, Bennett King, David Moore, John Dyson, David Williams, Ottis Gibson, Stuart Law, Nic Photas ( interim), Richard Pybus (interim), Floyd Reifer (interim) and Phil Simmons,andhavenot hadmuchsuccess.

CricketWestIndieseven tried having a combination of a Head coach, a batting coach and a bowling coach. Thistoodidnotleadtomuch of a difference in the team’s

fortunes.

The problem is not the coaches. There is only so much a coach can do. It is likeatrainingaracehorse.If thehorsecannotrun,thereis onlysomuchthatthetrainer can do. And this is the dilemma which faces the WestIndiescricketteam:no amount of coaches can transform a weak team into the sort of squads led by Clive Lloyd in the 1980 and early1990’s.

By the time a player debuts for the West Indies,

CitizenfilesCourtactionagainstconflict...

Frompage3

the process and asked them to recuse themselves

However, both gentlemen refused to address the allegationsandproceededto participate as part of the statutory required threemember EAB quorum, and the EAB published its decisiononMay10,2023.

As such, Radzik has moved to court. The failure of the EAB to follow due process and rule of law is howevernotarecentmatter D e m o c r a c y a n d environmental advocate Simone Mangal-Joly has been raising concerns about thelackofindependenceand procedural unfairness at the EABsince2021,concerning their handling of the waiver of EIAs for the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Exxon Mobil’s exploratory drilling campaign in the Canje and Kaieteur Blocks, and even filed a complaint about procedural unfairness in Exxon Mobil’s Yellowtail

EIA and environmental permitprocess.

Mangal-Joly’s efforts to engage the EAB for solutions were ignored, and she consequently boycotted the statutory public hearing on the Canje and Kaieteur Blocksdrillingcampaignsin 2022 in protest. In a bid to address the festering problem,Mangal-Jolywrote several public letters beginning in January 2023, appealingtoPresidentIrfaan Ali,whoisalsotheMinister inchargeoftheEnvironment withresponsibilityunderthe EP Act for appointing members of the EAB, to act to ensure the independence and integrity of the EAB. However, her efforts were alsoignored.

This is the fourth matter c o n c e r n i n g p o o r environmental governance that has caused citizens to approach the court for a remedy after prolonged efforts to engage with the authoritieseitherfellondeaf

Dem boys seh...

ears or were actively rebuffed Thus far, the citizens filing the applications have won two ofthecases.

The most recent ruling byJusticeSandilKissoonin the case of the EPA’s failure toenforcethetermsofparent company guarantee in Exxon Mobil’s Lisa 1 Environmental Permit describedtheEPA’sconduct i n t h e m a t t e r a s “reprehensible”. The other successful matters brought before the Court include the challenge to the duration of environmental Permits and another on the waiver of an EIA for a radioactive waste facility at Houston, East Bank Demerara. There are other oil and gas related matters,presentlypendingat theCourt.

TheHighCourtwillnow consider the applicant’s claims and, hopefully, shed light on the alleged improprieties within the EAB.

Meet the superhero

Amidst the hustle and bustle of this world and its challenges and tragedies, thereisadistantlandwitha superhuman being He rules from behind the curtains,butnotfarbehind. He is a champion of micromanagement, a oneman expert in all matters, and an unrivaled authority on everything under the sun.Ladies and gentlemen, despite boasting a track record of failures, this superherobelievesheisthe ultimate decision-making machine.

He is the consummate controlfreak.Intherealmof governance, where specializationandexpertise are valued, this esteemed leader defies all logic. He roams the corridors of power of his distant kingdom, peeking into

every nook and cranny eager to interfere and to demonstrate his vast intellect.

B u t a l a s , h i s interventions often lead to chaosandconfusion.

Picture this: a person well-versed in their field presents a well-researched proposal The room is brimmingwithanticipation astheexpertunveilsaplan to address a critical issue.

S u d d e n l y , o u r micromanager-in-chief bursts through the door, armed with half-baked ideasandamisplacedsense of superiority.With a wave of his hand, he dismisses the expert’s expertise, disregards the intricate details,andimposeshisillconceivedsolutions.

It’s a comedy of errors, a tragicomedy of epic

his technique would have been set including the bad habits.Thereisonlysomuch correctionwhichcanbedone bythecoaches Andgiventhe limited time that the coaches havewiththeplayers,itishard for them to correct the major technical flaws in a batsman During a series, there is not much a coach can do with a team other than ensure that theykeepfitandsticktotheir trainingschedules.

Given the sort of money which the players make today,someofthemfeelthat they are better than and that the do not need coaching.A West Indies coach was seen lookingonathisteamwarmup session from behind the pavilionfence,soalienatedhe wasfromtheteam.Onecoach was even told that he did not haveagoodtestaverage.

Coachesarenottheanswer to the problem facing West Indies cricket The dominant West Indies team from 1977 onwards did not have coaches Whentheteamplayedithada manager and physiotherapist Thekeytowinningwasnotthe coaches and support staff as it was the captain and the playersandtheexposurethe players received by playing CountyCricketinEngland. Notalltheplayersinthe dominant West Indies team plied their trade in England. A number of players emerged as world-class

batsmen and blowers from regional cricket. But many of the players who did well for the West Indies came to the fore because of playing countrycricketinEngland.

Playing professional cricketenhancedtheskillsof players. It made them better players. When the English cricketauthoritiesdecidedto limitthenumberofoverseas players who can play country cricket that was when the moment the standard of West Indian senior teams began to decline.

But it was not the only factor Ithasbeensaidthatthe region did not put in place a developmentprogramme.But there was no development programmeinthepastandwe stillproducedthegreatplayers such as Andy Roberts, Malcolm Marshall, Colin Croft, Michael Holding, Joel Garner, Sylvester Clarke, WayneDaniels,VivRichards, Clive Lloyd, Desmond Haynes, Alvin Kallicharran, Shivnarine Chanderpual, Gus Logie,JeffDujonRamnaresh Sarwan, Carl Hooper and BrianLara

Cricket West Indies and the fans of the regional team have to face up to certain realities The first is that the standardofregionalcricketis notthathighandthisisthepool fromwhichtheregionalsideis drawn The standard of

regionalcricketisnotgoingto be developed by a centrally directed development programme That has not worked It is for the regional Boards to improve domestic cricketandthisisnotgoingto happenwhengovernmentsare seeking to interfere in the administration of cricket and when the resources are not there to improve domestic cricket.

Second, the reality must be faced that the foreign teams have gotten better, including by investing in modern training facilities. Unless we begin to improve thestandardoftrainingatthe national and club levels, West Indies cricket will remaininthedoldrums.

No amount of cutting andchoppingofcoacheswill transformthefortunesofthe West Indies Cricket. Cricket West Indies needs to return tothebasics.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

proportions The one-man army has a proven track record of failures. From economic blunders to diplomaticdebacles,hehas consistently missed the mark. Yet, this does not deter him Instead, he doubles down on his misguided approach, convinced that his divine wisdomwillsomehowlead thenationtoglory

This leader, the selfproclaimed master of micromanagement, can’t seem to grasp the concept that leadership involves trust, delegation, and the humility to acknowledge one’s limitations. Instead, he chooses to embrace a delusion of grandeur, convinced that he alone holds the answers to every problem. Talk half. Leff half.

Governing – the good and the less

At an early hour last week,Inoticedsomehalffull white bags right by the fence. Looking up and down the empty and still quiet street, the same half full sacks were spacedoutalongthefencesof private residences and a government office. A few hours later, I received an education on what the overnight arrival of those sacks meant. It had to do with drainage: cleaning and

clearing, and generally s p r u c i n g u p t h e surroundings. It is a good development.

Thinking of drainage in Georgetown can prompt a haemorrhageofrageinmany whoaredisgustedbythelack of it, the results of its prolonged absence. Now I have some news to share that may surprise citizens, given the substance and thrusts that are embedded. It is the first

time in many years that the drains have been purged, and the fellows did a thorough and commendable job. I am impressed that the PPP Government has spent the money and delivered. I go further

Forawhilenow,thegrass has been regularly mowed, and it does something for the a m b i e n c e o f t h e neighborhood. Stillfurther,I have come across in my

travels across town the hum of machines, and backs bent, in efforts to improve the city, itsappearance,anditsappeal. Again, I extend recognition and hand to the PPP Government for its efforts. HisExcellency,PresidentAli has been involved, and though my thinking is colored on that, the positives are embraced, and I hail him. Now, as all this discerning and saluting are delivered, I assureeveryonethatthereisa purpose, and it embodies what some may consider as good,butwhichotherswould prefer not to hear or read. The good is taken with the bad,andwithasmiletoo.

I remind all citizenspartisans, patriots, political princes, and peasants-that I have had cause to applaud Minister Vindya Persaud for someearlyupside. When some family commitments entered the knowledge base, distancing and some distastes were the onlyactionsleft.

Minister Frank Anthony heard accolades (and c r i t i c i s m s ) o n h i s management of the COVID19 crisis. Also, I got my vaccines and boosters, despite anti-vaxxers, and animosities of others Conditional praise was issued for President Ali's outreachprograms.

It is well-known that torrents of condemnation have been poured on the heads of both President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo, a man possessing a dubious honor, where oil is concerned, and corruption is the national culture. In sum, the good gladdens the heart and it is said and written; while the not so good, the

c o n c l u s i v e l y criminal has also been castigated and calledforwhatitis.

I now change lanes. When the PNC was in power, I am on record as c a l l i n g f o r t h e resignations or firings of Ministers Felix, Ramjattan, and Yearwood. It had to do with passport lines on Camp Road, the Camp Street fire, and some convoluted real estate exercises respectively When I concluded that the PNC had lost the last elections, I called on then PresidentGrangertoconcede and do the honorable thing: step away The related writings are all in the public domain, and so also are the corrosive and combustible cascades of condemnations thatresulted.

There are a few points in all this for my fellow Guyanese and they are of simplicity itself. It is an individual right to be partisan. Itisanotherrightof consenting citizens to belong to a leadership cult. It is a right to be a tribalist or a supremacist or an ideologue or a pollster, even a closet racistandapublicbigot.

Butitis,andcan,neverbe conducive to personal honesty, honor, and integrity to be about what is so corrupted of character that we cannot speak when our owndowrong.

Or we are so constricted in core citizenry that we cannot bring ourselves to write in condemnation when ourleadersfailoraredevious and dangerous. Or we are so constipatedandcontemptible incomportmentthatweshout about the good, and hide fromtheatrocities.

This has been the elemental feature of political leaders, and the crooked and twistedthattheyholdcloseto their bosom, yet PPP and PNC tribalists, supremacists (even racists) transform themselves into stone, and see, smell and sense none of the evils that abound in this land. When we condone in this manner, we stand as w o r s e p e r p e t r a t o r s (wrongdoers and corrupters) than the ones who actually commit them, and are addicted to what is a way of life. It is beyond mental dishonesty; it is personal homagetodreadfulfelony After all the education, the book of argumentation, the sum of rationalizations and protections, this is what we amount to, then such brethren in this space are not even worthy of interest or engagement, so pitiful they h a v e b e c o m e , s o mindlessnesstheyare.

Even the Prophet Mohamed and Jesus Christ came in for resistance and excoriation by their own in theirowntimes.

How come, therefore, there are these Guyanese pretensions of purity and immaculacy when so many political crimes and leadership corruptions proliferate?

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this newspaper and its affiliates.

ForeignAffairs Minister delivers address at reception for Guyana's UN Security Council Bid in New York

DPI-MinisterofForeign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Hilton Todd, on Friday night delivered the keynote address at a reception hosted bythePermanentMissionof Guyana to the United Nations in New York ahead of the United Nations Security Council Elections which will be held on TuesdayJune6,2023.

Guyana is seeking election as a non-permanent member of the Security

Council for the 2024-2025 term. Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, was also inattendance.

During his address, Minister Todd outlined Guyana's vision and priorities for membership on the Council and expressed Guyana's commitment if elected to the Security Council to the rule of law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

Minister Todd further noted that Guyana has always played an active role in United Nations and, as a Small State, is ready to contribute to the work of the Security Council in partnership with all Member States for Peace and Prosperity

The event was attended b y P e r m a n e n t Representatives to the U n i t e d N a t i o n s , Ambassadors, and other representativesinNewYork.

elected, we will ask within 50 days for more royalty, ring-fencing’- PNC

Th e P e o p l e ' s N a t i o n a l Congress (PNC) has finally revealed its position on the oil and gas sector.

At its weekly press conference on Thursday, the

party led by Mr Aubrey Norton shared its plans for the industry, announcing that it will engage American oil major, ExxonMobil for more benefits for Guyana within itsfirst50daysinoffice.

government will invite the company to the negotiation table within its first 50 days in government,” the party said.

Economic Advisor to the Opposition Leader, Elson Low told reporters that the

party has noted the attacks in Kaieteur News onitsposition with regards to the development of the country's oil sector and finds the “attacks” disingenuous since records would show that the Opposition has made significant statements on the subject.

This newspaper reported last week that the Opposition Leader said he will await general elections before revealing his plans for the petroleumsector

The party noted, “We recognize and applaud the Kaieteur News for its passionate advocacy on oil matters We however seriously differ from the newspaper in two major ways: (i) we answer to the people and therefore will not subscribe to any selfappointedjudge'sstandardor performance test as to the frequency, intensity, and content of our statements on oil; and (ii) we believe that, despite the significance of oil, other issues affecting our n a t i o n r e m a i n critical issues such as poverty, high cost of living, high-level corruption, ethnic and political discrimination, biometrics and a clean voters list with the aim of having credible elections, and failed governancebythePPP.”

Itsaid Kaieteur News was out to “provoke” the party but it will not be forced to adoptanyone'sposition.

Lownoted,“Likewesaid before we will be guided by the laws of Guyana which demand that we do everything to ensure our people benefit from the oil andgassector.”

After insisting on keeping its plans for the oil sector silent until elections, theOppositionhasdecidedto share some of its policies to governtheindustry

The Economic Advisor noted that the Opposition believes that revenue from the oil and gas resources belong to all Guyanese, as such “all must benefit equitably, systematically, andurgently”.

According to the party, “The current inflow of oil

Economic Advisor to the Opposition Leader, Elson Low

revenues is not a pittance. It has put Guyana among the richest countries in the world per capita We in the Opposition are therefore focused on ensuring the proper use of the existing money for the development of the people of Guyana. We are also interested in our country developing the human resource capability to ensure we can monitor, evaluate and manage the sectorsuccessfully.”

Low explained that Guyana can benefit from a greater share of the pie by amending or enforcing a number of aspects in the currentagreement.

T h e s e i n c l u d e :

i n c r e a s i n g r o y a l t y ; introducing ring-fencing; reducing cost oil; amending the 50/50 profit share split; conductingtimelyandrobust audits; enforcing the requirements for full liability coverage and a Parent Company Guarantee to ensure Guyana does not bear any financial burden for oil spillsorotherdisasters.

He said, “To achieve these ends, we believe severalmechanismscouldbe employed (including) amendments of the oil contract in keeping with the terms of the contract which p r o v i d e s f o r s u c h amendment.”Tothisend,the Opposition noted, “A new Coalition government will invite the company to the negotiation table within its

first50daysingovernment.”

To achieve greater benefits for the country, the PNC also believes that there should be stricter and timelier enforcement of existing conditions, such as audits of company accounts, insurance and liability guarantees, and conduct of feasibilitystudies.

Additionally, Low pointed out that provisions could be included in the Environmental Permits to further protect the country's interest.

Further, “Phasing of new approvals to increase our shareofthepie.

On this matter, we stated at our Press Conference of 6th April that “we propose thatGuyananeedstodevelop a strategy to phase the development of new projects in the Stabroek Block in a manner that allows us to increase our takings through higher profit oil At the moment, the 50/50 split gets Guyana only 12.5% of oil revenues – a percentage that seems unlikely to budge under the ongoing oil rush. With five FPSOs already in operation or already approved, the country is now well-positioned to seek a largercutofthepie.”

The party believes that the current 25 percent that is left after 75 percent is deducted by Exxon towards cost, should be increased to allow Guyana to benefit greater

BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCY!

SUNDAY – May 28, 2023

Rippingoff

Guyanese getting rip-off allaround.

Bandits rip-off a school childpantsforhiscellphone.

Exxon ripping off Guyaneseoftheiroil.

ThePPPGovt.partnering withExxontoripoffGuyana. And the Opposition rippingoffitself.

MONDAY – May 29, 2023

Waituntilelections

What sort of slackness is thisfromtheOpposition?

This is not slackness, it is madness!

The world is talking about oil, and the Opposition ismum…

Numb, mum, and dumb…

Oil developments are happeningbytheday!

TUESDAY – May 30, 2023

Oppositionandoilpolicy

O p p o s i t i o n s t i l l formulatingitsoilpolicy

What policy? What kind ofjokeisthis?

Almost three years ago, Joe Harmon was gathering a team.

Now the Opposition of today is gathering steam goingdownhill.

Downhill to nowhere on oil.

The Guyana oil world is rushingby

Meanwhile, Guyana's Opposition is gazing at the moon.

WEDNESDAY – May 31, 2023

Strategicandtactical

The Opposition Leader missedtheboat

Why is he talking about “strategicandtactical?”

Heisnotinthearmy,heis inpolitics

No wonder the PPP Govt and Exxon making rings aroundGuyana

What else can there be, given the Opposition that Guyanahas?

THURSDAY – June 1, 2023

The right time for the Opposition

Will there ever be the 'right time' for the Opposition?

Based on its record, we don'tthinkso.

Now is the time to get up andget.

But the Opposition still talkingabouttherighttime.

The oil will come to an end.

ItwillfindtheOpposition stilltalkingaboutrighttime.

Godhelpus!

FRIDAY – June 2, 2023

Jagdeo is running out of excuses!

First, it was sanctity of contracts.

Next came the excuse that renegotiation would chaseinvestors.

Exxon itself has admitted that it would not turn away from the wealth discovered in Guyana easily, but Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has pulled another excuse from hisbag!

M o m e n t u m ! A n y changes to the contract could killthemomentumheclaims.

When will our nation and people enjoy the resources bequeathed to us by the Creator, or was this blessing only intended for the oil companies, Jagdeo and his cronies?

SATURDAY – June 3, 2023

Govt. must outline oil sector safeguards to be adopted from Qatar, UAE,

Elderly man burnt to death in house fire

An elderly man

was burnt on Fridaytodeathin his Herstelling Sea Dam home.

The dead man was identified as 58-year-old Sundar Nandkishore Reports are that the elderly manlivedalone.

His daughter who lives nearby told police that Nandkishore was a diabetic and was bedridden The woman disclosed that her fatherwasaheavysmoker

SaudiArabia

President Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo appear to be striking up strategic partnershipswithnationslike Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. These countries are

known powerhouses on efficient governance of their respective oil and gas industries.

It is our hope that these bilateral efforts see the adoption of critical safeguards that can elevate

Guyanaonthesameplane.

Letitnotbeforgottenthat the country still awaits the establishment of an independentbodysuchasthe Petroleum Commission so that the industry may be extricated from political

bosoms.

Most importantly, the country still wants to hear how this government will slice out more benefits from that abomination of a contractthatshacklescurrent and future generations to the parasitic machinations of ExxonMobil.

We hope the government is not waiting until 2025 to reveal these plans alongside its comrades in the political opposition.

Theclockisticking!

She recalled that while sitting on her veranda, she saw smoke coming from his house.Asaresult,sheandher brother rushed over to their father's home only to find himonaburningbed.

An alarm was raised and neighbours formed a bucket brigade and extinguished the

Sunday – May 28, 2023

local content makes money for the General of the Guyana Revenue private sector, it is paltry compared Authority(GRA).

If a contract is parasitic, to what Guyana can get with a According to the company’s it must be nullified betterdeal. financial statements seen by this - Kenyan anti-corruption In commenting on the newspaper, it is understood that in expert, PLO Lumumba on companies’ magnificent profits 2022, its income tax expense Stabroek Block deal during his most recent press a m o u n t e d t o conference, Jagdeo said the GYD$59,381,186,433, while Renowned Kenyan law government’s disappointment lies royaltypaidtoGuyanaforthatyear professor and anti-corruption with the lack of ring-fencing in the o n l y t o t a l e d crusader, Patrick Loch Otieno contract. He said if there was ring- GYD$18,892,021,213. Lumumba, is of the view that if a fencing, some earlier investments This means the country contract is parasitic, the people would have already been received three times less than what have a responsibility to mobilise amortized, and Guyana could have itlostintaxestoExxon. andensurethatitisnullified. gotten a bigger share. He also Asaresultofthelopsidedterms

Herecentlysharedhisviewson repeated a claim he had made embodied in the contract, the refusal by government to before, that Exxon’s share from Guyanese have been protesting for renegotiate Guyana’s Stabroek profit oil is more than Guyana’s thedealtoberenegotiatedtoensure Block production sharing take. the country benefits more from its agreement (PSA) during a special

The Stabroek Block is resources. airing of the Glenn Lall Show on estimated to contain resources of GRA in the Auditor General’s Saturday,April27. approximately 11 billion oil- Report for the year 2021 reported

Lumumba, who served as the equivalent barrels and is operated that a total of US$1 billion in taxes Director of the Kenya Anti- by ExxonMobil affiliate Esso were waived for the oil companies. Corruption Commission, is widely Exploration and Production The report noted that the total tax respected for his commitment to Guyana Limited. They hold a 45% exemptions granted to the oil and said. hefty $1.23 trillion (US$5.9B) in exposing corruption and

interest in the block, Hess Guyana gas sector in 2021 amounted to

He further suggested that 2022, if one were to add their advocatingforjustice. ExplorationLtd.holds30%interest GYD$203,888,000. politicians who often engage with earnings in 2020 and 2021, those

When told that sanctity of

while CNOOC Petroleum Guyana In January last year, Kaieteur thesecompaniesmaybeinfluenced three years of production returned contracts is a principle being used Limitedholdstheremaining25%. News Publisher, Mr Glenn Lall by bribery and corruption, pointing $1.49 trillion (US$7.2B) in profits to reject renegotiation of the filedacaseinGuyana’sHighCourt out that they are “bought for a tothoseoilcompanies.Ontheother Stabroek Block PSA, Lumumba Monday – May 29, 2023 challenging some of the most song” and lured with luxury hand, Guyana’s oil money in the said one must not rely on legal repressive tax provisions of the properties abroad. Thus, the anti- first three years of oil production technicalities to legitimize unjust Guyana received US$95M in Stabroek Block PSA with corruption expert underscored the was US$2B. Counting deposits agreements. Royalty and gives away Exxon ExxonMobil and its partners. It needforcivicorganizationsandthe made this year, the figure for

black letter law to legitimise the

He stated, “We must not use US$290M in taxes last year wasn’t until February of this year general public to counteract the Guyana is approximately

that the Court handed down its manipulative tactics of these US$2.4B. illegitimate”.Drawingonhistorical

While the nation received a ruling, upholding the waiver of the multinationalcorporations. The companies’ financials examples, he reminded listeners meagerUS$94.5millionin2022as taxestotheoilcompanies.

Lumumba’scommentsechothe show that Hess and CNOOC both thatevenatrocitieslikeapartheidin royalty for its sweet light crude in In his application, Mr Lall had sentiments of Guyanese who argue made profits in 2020 but Exxon South Africa, and Nazi Germany, the Stabroek Block, the country contended among other things, that for a fairer and more equitable made a loss. Their combined profit were once legally sanctioned gaveawayUS$290millionintaxes many of the provisions listed under distribution of benefits from was $5 6 billion, and Guyana

Therefore, the mere legality of a to multinational oil corporation, Article 15 1 of the Petroleum Guyana’spetroleumendowment. received$41billioninroyaltiesand contract does not automatically ExxonMobil. Agreement, dated June 27, 2016

ThefiscaltermsoftheStabroek profitoilsales.In2021,Guyanagot makeitjustorfair When the country signed the between the GOG and the oil Block Production Sharing $85B, but the companies’ profits

In the case of Guyana’s lopsided Production Sharing companies, grant exemptions to Agreement (PSA) in Guyana have overtookthisatacombined$255B.

Stabroek Block PSA, Lumumba Agreement (PSA) with the oil personsotherthanlicensees,which been a subject of scrutiny and In 2022, they made $1.23 trillion, suggested that if the contract is company in 2016, it agreed to pay violate the Petroleum Exploration controversy Under the current andGuyanagot$294B. found to be parasitic, it is terms, Guyana initially receives With the fifth project recently incumbent upon the people of approximately a 14.5% stake in approved, ExxonMobil is well on Guyana to seek redress through revenues during the early days of its way to placing 10 floating their courts or other international production, with the expectation production, storage and offloading tribunals He called for the that its share will increase as the (FPSO) vessels offshore Guyana. nullification of unfavourable Stabroek Block consortium Hence, the exploitation of agreements that legitimize theft, recovers its investments Vice Guyana’s resources under the specificallyreferringtothecontract President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has lopsided Stabroek Block betweenthegovernmentofGuyana criticized the fiscal terms, production sharing agreement and ExxonMobil Lumumba describing them as one of the worst (PSA) is set to continue. So far, the argued that such a contract would anda“shitty”deal.Hehashowever deal has allowed the local not be acceptable in the United refused to push for a renegotiation subsidiaries of the Stabroek Block States, where ExxonMobil is ofthelopsidedterms. partners to amass more than headquartered, and advised the Lumumba’s background as a US$18Bincombinedassets. people of Guyana to make their law professor and former Director With calls to renegotiate the voices heard and seek legal of the Kenya Anti-Corruption contract falling on deaf ears, the remedies both domestically and Commission has positioned him as Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo internationally an influential figure in the fight has said that instead of getting a Lumumba cited examples of against corruption in Africa better deal, the government will African countries such as Nigeria, Known for his Pan-Africanist claw back value using the Local Gabon, Congo, and Angola, which viewsandcommitmenttospeaking Content Act However, former havefacedgrievousdetrimentfrom truth to power, Lumumba has advisor to the government on the taxes on behalf of the Stabroek andProductionAct(PEPA),andthe partnering with multinational oil gained recognition for his fearless Petroleum, Dr Jan Mangal has said Blockpartners.Thismeansthatnot Financial Administration (and companies. advocacy for justice and the rule of that local content is important and only did Guyana pay taxes for Audit)Act.

“There are many stories, and law necessary; the Irfaan Ali Exxon, but it also paid taxes on As such, the newspaper remember, these companies, administration cannot expect it to behalf of Hess Corporation and publisher had requested particularly in the oil sector Exxon and partners profits from be a substitute for a fair deal with CNOOC. declarationsfromtheCourtthatthe because they monopolise 2020 to 2022 more than three ExxonMobil.

The PSA states at Article 15.4 provisions are unlawful, null and technology They don’t care. They times Guyana’s oil revenues Mangal has said that local that the sum equivalent to the taxes void,andofnolegaleffect. don’t have a conscience. They are content is a red herring for the owed by the company will be paid In his ruling however, Justice there to reap and rape. And they

While the Stabroek Block government’s refusal to get a better by the Minister responsible for NareshwarHarnanansaidthe must be stopped by clear and partners’2022 profits added up to a deal. He had explained that while Petroleum to the Commissioner (Continued on page 15) unequivocal voices,” the expert

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

From page 14

days,anunlimitedParentCompany minister is vested with the power Guarantee Agreement and/or under Section 51 of the PEPA and unlimited liability Affiliate the Petroleum (Exploration and Company Guarantee, together with Production) (Tax laws) to grant environmental liability insurance,

as is customary in the international Petroleum Guyana Limited, and petroleumindustry Hess Guyana Exploration Limited,

EEPGL, CNOOC Nexen

Two citizens, Frederick Collins all companies that are parties to the and Godfrey Whyte had case, concessions of extensive tax approached the court for a exemptions. declaration that EEPGL was in

For its part, ExxonMobil’s breachofitsLizaPhaseOnePermit subsidiary Esso Exploration and which requires the provision of an Production Guyana Limited unlimitedparentguarantee. (EEPGL) had contended that Lall

It noted that the company has stepped outside his boundary when produced 151,000 barrels of crude he moved to the High Court to petroleumperdayfortheyear2023 challenge the Government of on average, through March 2023. It Guyana’s decision to grant explained that “This is extensive tax waivers to the oil approximately 4.5Mn barrels per operatoranditsaffiliates. month…the most recent month’s average selling price for the Liza 1

Pace of Guyana exploration, petroleum was more than $US75 production activities not perbarrel.” happening anywhere else in the

“This means the monthly world - Exxon VP, Global pursueasmanyas10intotal. Agency (EPA)madeagainstahigh that in the absence of this revenuelossfortheAppellantEsso, Exploration Official Ardill praised the speed at court ruling that provides for the guarantee, should there be a the Co-venturers, and the State’s which development in Guyana has Esso Exploration and Production catastrophic oil spill, then the projected to be US$337.5m. This ExxonMobil’s Vice President progressed, stating, “That’s Guyana Limited (EEPGL), to give burden of those liabilities would would amount to $US337.5m. per of Global Exploration, JohnArdill, incrediblyfast,fourandahalfyears Guyana unlimited parent company restonGuyanese.Assuch,thecourt month or $US4b. per annum that recently expressed admiration for from discovery to first oil is pretty guarantee for its oil drilling gaveEEPGLuptoJune10,2023to wouldbeforfeitforeachyearwhile the remarkable pace of exploration muchanindustryrecord.Sothatoil activitiesintheStabroekblock. complyorfacethesuspensionofits the appeal is pending,” the and production activities in development, by any measurable The case was scheduled to be permit. companystated. Guyana, in an interview with S&P standard, in a new country with no heard before Justice Rishi Persaud Theoilcompanyinitsappealof Further, EEPGL said that the GlobalCommodityInsights. hydrocarbons industry, using on Monday but the matterhad to be therulingtoldtheAppealCourtthat LizaPetroleumProductionLicence H e m e n t i o n e d t h a t floating production, storage, and deferred as Mr Sanjeev Datadin, it could suffer a massive financial is for a limited term of time and ExxonMobil’s three criteria for offloading vessels, all of that is the lead attorney for EPA did not loss if the Liza One Permit is [the] Appellant may be unable to investment, namely attractive world-classpaceandskill,andtobe showupforthevirtualhearing.The suspended. On May 15 when the recover lost production implicated geology,stablepoliticalconditions, running three rigs drilling pure Court learnt that Mr Datadin was matter was called for case by a suspension of the permit.As a and carbon footprint minimization, development wells, that’s not on his way back to Guyana management before the Appeal result, EEPGL is therefore “allcometogether”inGuyana. happening anywhere else in the followinganoverseastrip.Assuch, Court,DatadinhadrequestedaStay petitioning the Guyana Court of Ardill explained that world.” thecaseisscheduledtocontinueon of Justice Kissoon’s Order but his Appeal to reverse and/or set aside meticulous consideration goes into The one thing that was not Wednesdayat11:00am. requestwasrefused. the whole of Justice Kissoon’s upstream investments, as they have mentioned in the S&P piece is the The Appeal Court has now Justice Persaud told Datadin decision and to dismiss the case long-lasting implications He enviable deal ExxonMobil is scheduledthehearingofthejoinder that a stay of the order was not brought by litigants, Frederick stated, “Are they the right benefitting from The lopsided application as well as the requiredasheintendstohanddown CollinsandGodfreyWhyte. moleculesintherightplacewiththe StabroekBlockProductionSharing substantive matter for Wednesday hisrulingpriortotheJune10,2023 right carbon intensity and if those Agreement (PSA) has been facing at11:00am. deadline in which Exxon is Many individuals questions are all yes, then they’ll protests and calls for its In his May 3, 2023 ruling, required to supply the parent occupying public office in our find a path to development. Not, in renegotiationforyears. Justice Sandil Kissoon had guarantee, to cover oil spill countries are misleaders many cases, very quickly If there S&P said Exxon is currently determined that EEPGL was in damagesabovethelimitedUS$600 - We are authors of our own are question marks around those... producing 360,000-370,000 bpd in breach of its permit as it failed to millioninsurance. misfortune when we follow them it’sgoingtobeaharderpath.” Guyana, and has six rigs operating. furnish the country with an Had the stay been granted, it - Professor PLO Lumumba

Discussing ExxonMobil’s The Payara project will start later unlimited parent and/or affiliate would have put a hold on Justice expansion in Guyana, Ardill this year, taking production to guarantee for a potential oil spill in Kissoon’sMay3,2023orderforthe Manyoftheindividualswho regarded it as a benchmark against 600,000 bpd. Yellowtail will come theStabroekBlock.Thecourtruled company to provide, within 30 (Continued on page 16) which other basins, including those on in 2025 and Uaru will achieve in Africa, are measured He first oil in 2026. The Whiptail explained that the rapid revenue project, still to be reviewed and generation and the ability to approved, is being targeted for first minimize emissions from the oil in 2027 By then, current production process make oil a vital production is expected to triple. resource, particularly in regions Exxon has a 45% working interest likeGuyana. in the Stabroek Block, as operator ArdillgaveinsightintoExxon’s Hess Corporation has a 30% stake, operationsinmultiplejurisdictions, and CNOOC Limited has a 25% but the article appeared to indicate stake. he had a particular enthusiasm when discussing the developments

Tuesday – May 30, 2023 in Guyana. Since 2015, more than 30 discoveries and an extremely Guyana Govt. formally generous deal have given Exxon joins fight against unlimited the push to move quickly on the parent guarantee for oil spills development of 11 billion oil- - hearing of joinder equivalent barrels. It has already application, substantive received the go-ahead from the case set for Wednesday government to place five floating production, storage and offloading

The Government of Guyana (FPSO)vesselsoffshoreGuyana,to through Attorney General, Anil , producemorethanamillionbarrels SC has applied to join the appeal of oil per day (bpd), and is likely to that the Environmental Protection

The Guyana Court of Appeal The Guyana Court of Appeal Stabroek Block

From page 15 we too follow them, we are Lumumba said, “But what nation’s wealth for future going to tell you, you must Housing and Water, Central occupy public office and complicit and therefore, we we see now in many of our generations explained that sell us (resources) for the Housing and Planning oversee the plundering of are called authors of our countries, countries that are bad deals can be entered into next several years and then Authority (CH&PA) signed their countries’ resources by misfortunate,” the African being raped on a daily basis, by governments who are we are going to give you $11.8 billion in contracts to foreign agents while citizens legendstated. countries that are being poorly advised by hired money to build roads and to build a new four lane wallow in abject poverty, Expounding further, abused on a daily basis, and negotiators. In fact, he noted finance your hospitals, highway connecting cannot be, in all good Professor Lumumba noted what we have at the end of that many countries find finance your agriculture so SchoonordtoCrane. conscience, referred to as thattherearemanycountries the day, are individuals who themselves in such a thatyoulookgoodbeforethe The new four-lane leaders.Theyarenothingbut that are rich with resources themselvesarenotinterested dilemma. electorate, so that you are project as reported on has mere“misleaders.” and even on paper, their and we are impoverished for He shared that he was elected, and when you are been divided into eight lots This perspective was economic wealth and this generation and recently involved in elected, we know that our and will measure some recently offered by prospects are indeed generations yet to be negotiating a contract for interests are being protected 4.1km of dual carriageway renowned Kenyan lawyer glowing. He said this is the born…” The only way to Liberia with a Chinese soitisamyriadofthis.” reinforced concrete road and legendary anti- case with the Democratic breakthiscursehesaid,isfor company The company he To this end, Professor Some of the features of the corruption fighter Patrick Republic of Congo. He said the citizenry to start making said supplied the agreement Lumumba noted, “It is our highway include an Loch Otieno (PLO) it is one of the richest the right demands of those andincludedaclauseforany duty therefore to ensure that emergency lane, medians, Lumumba. During his first countries on Earth but there politicians elected to public disputes between the parties we safeguard our countries therehabilitationof2.4kmof appearance on The Glenn are high poverty levels office and holding them toberesolvedinBeijing.The so that we are not beholden roadways, two roundabouts, Lall Show on May 27, 2023, because “their so-called accountablewhentheyfailto anti-corruption genius said to these individuals because 11 reinforced concrete box Professor Lumumba shared leaders signed away their deliver heobjectedtothisprovision, of the next elections but we culverts, 36 pre-stressed his views on the extent to birthright.” adding that had this not been are protecting our patrimony bridges, road signage and which leaders of various Professor Lumumba also Wednesday properly vetted, the country for the sake of the next markings. nationsshouldbeblamedfor cited the trail of damage – May 31, 2023 would have accepted for generation.”

The Schoonord to Crane highlevelsofpoverty often left behind by oil resolutions to be decided in four-lane road is just the first Professor Lumumba was companies with the Citizens are duty-bound that company’s home Guyana borrows phase of the highway which keen to note that the word permission of world leaders. to ensure elected country or “the home of the US$350M from Qatar leads to Parika At the “leader” is not one he uses He mentioned in this leaders manage resources hyenas” where the people to extend four-lane signing of the contracts last very loosely or ascribes to instance, Nigeria, Angola, for generations to canbe“eatenalive”. highway to Parika year September, Minister of anyone merely because they Equatorial Guinea, Gabon come - Kenyan Moving forward, the Housing and Water, Collin hold office. “I dare say that and Venezuela as prime Anti-corruption Legend anti-corruption legend urged

During a recent outreach Croal told the gathering that most of the individuals who examples of this sordid that leaders ensure sufficient inMalgreTout/Meer-Zorgen the construction of the occupypublicspaceinmany conundrum Professor Often times, citizens sit expertise is recruited to area, Region Three, highway will energise the of our countries are Lumumba also referenced back and the lay the blame negotiate on behalf of the President Irfaan Ali economic activity within the misleaders because many of Guyana where ExxonMobil solely at the feet of their country. Moreover, the announced that the region. These activities he t h e m h a v e b e e n Corporation and its partners elected leaders for Professor said that citizens government had secured a said, “will no doubt result in compromised.Manyofthem are walking away with the m i s m a n a g i n g t h e i r must ensure they too protect US$350 million loan from significant improvements in are not patriotic. Many of lion’s share of oil resources resources; however, they too the country’s resources. He Qatar to extend the job opportunities and when them do not have the interest in the Stabroek Block while haveadutytoensurethatthe explained, “Sometimes we Schoonord to Crane four- you have new road of their countries (at heart),” citizenry accepts a pittance nation’s patrimony is blame these multinational lane road all the way to networking, opening of new ProfessorLumumbasaid. inreturn. protected for the sake of the (companies) but they also Parika. landswillmeanalso,notjust

He further proffered that He said what is taking nextgeneration. take advantage of our own He told residents that “I forhousingbutopportunities from his observations, many placeinthesenationsistruly This is the position of weaknesses because we just came back from Qatar for expansion for agriculture persons who hold office are a sad state of affairs. He also Kenyan anti-corruption don’tpresentourbestandwe and we just secured and agro-processing not only easily manipulated stressed that history has legend, Professor Patrick don’t put our best foot US$350M to continue that industry, processing but can even be considered demonstrated, and certainly Loch Otieno Lumumba who forward and sometimes road through to Parika and facilities in manufacturing fifth columnists which is a not once, that when the made a special appearance governments are also complete the new four lane and the construction of term used to describe people leadership of a country is on The Glenn Lall Show on desperate You find road all the way on the West industrialcomplexes.” whoaresympathetictoorare respectful of its people, then Saturday last Professor yourselves in a situation Coast.” Kaieteur News had The Minister further working for a country’s those countries realize their Lumumba in prefacing his where you want money and reported that last year statedthatthefour-lane enemies. “To the extent that true potential Professor point about safeguarding a some of these fellows are September, the Ministry of (Continued on page 58)

Teachers take to the streets, begging for higher pay streets, begging for higher

VP Jagdeo unsure if ExxonMobil is recovering 2% royalty in expenses

Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) - ExxonMobil Guyana- in its financial statements for the year ending December 2022 listed the two percent royalty it is paying to Guyana as a company expense to develop the resources in the Stabroek Block.

U n d e r t h e 2 0 1 6

P r o d u c t i o n S h a r i n g Agreement (PSA), expenses that are part of production activities can be recovered or claimedbackbytheoperator

Last year, after constant back and forth, the government declared that E x x o n M o b i l i s n o t recovering the meager two percent royalty it is paying to thecountry

In its most recent financials however, the oil giant slipped in royalty as an expense part of its activities. It said for the year 2022, it p a i d a t o t a l o f

$18,892,021,213 to Guyanaapproximately US$94 5 millioninroyalty

Notably, taxes, which are not paid by the contractor were also listed as an expense. While ExxonMobil was careful to include a note in its financials to make it definitivethatitstaxesarenot being paid by the company, butratherbythegovernment.

It stated “Under Article 15 2 of the Petroleum Agreement, the Company is subject to the Income Tax Laws of Guyana with respect to filing returns, assessment of tax, and keeping of

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

records. Under Article 15.4 of the PetroleumAgreement, the sum equivalent to the tax assessed on (the) Company will be paid by the Minister responsible for Petroleum to the Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority and is reported as noncustomerrevenue.”

The same diligence was however not extended to the

recovered.

In response, the VP said, “Royalty, I think the GRA [Guyana RevenueAuthority] has made that clear Has it not?

Has GRA not made that clear?Iwilllookatit.”

He continued, “If they haveitasrecoverablethenit's wrong.It'snotrecoverable.”

on whether royalty was a recoverable expense. It was later revealed that the former A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government had renegotiated the deal to preventtheoilcompanyfrom recovering the royalties beingpaidtothecountry

According to Addendum No 1 to the Petroleum Agreement dated April 26, 2019, it was evident that the named parties were in agreement that the contract allowed for the two percent

royalty to be recovered. To plug this loophole, the Addendum that was subsequently filed with the Deeds Registry categorically stated that it shall not be recoveredinanyway

S e a l i n g t h e n e w arrangement were former President, David Granger and President of Exxon affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited(EEPGL)RodneyD. Henson.

Affixing their signatures as witnesses were former

Head of the Energy Department,Dr.MarkBynoe and the country's Petroleum Advisor at the time,Matthew Wilks.

This therefore means that royalty should not be recovered and should also be adequately reflected in like manner by the contractor in its financial statements; failure on its part to do so has againleftthenationtoponder whether the meager two percent royalty payment is being recovered as an operationalexpense.

royalties being paid to Guyana.ExxonMobildidnot bother to clarify in its financial statement at any point whether this cost is beingrecovered.

Efforts to clarify same with the nation's chief spokesperson on petroleum, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo were in vain on Thursday during his weekly press conference at Freedom House.

Jagdeo was informed that the company's financials listed the two percent royalty as a cost involved in the

specifically asked whether the funds were being

The former Head of State went on to explain that financial statements often require such information to be presented for accounting purposes and advised this newspaper to speak with a trained accountant on the matter

He was asked to say what measuresGuyanaistakingto ensure the oil company is not recovering the two percent royalty being paid every quarter, when he said, “No, no, it is not (recoverable), as far as we're concerned it is not recovered but look at whether in the financials based on the conventions its required.”

Kaieteur News had reportedthatthePSAissilent

A lesson for Guyana... Ghana, despite oil riches, now with begging bowl to IMF for US$3B economic bailout

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board approved a 36-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement for GhanainMay,totallingabout US$3billion.

This follows challenges faced by Ghana, which, despite having a vibrant oil sector and a story similar to that experienced by Guyana with Exxon and the Stabroek Block, is grappling with a struggling, unstable economy

Kristalina Georgieva, IMF Managing Director, said the programme “is focused on restoring macroeconomic s t a b i l i t y a n d d e b t sustainability as well as implementing wide-ranging reforms to build resilience and lay the foundation for stronger and more inclusive growth.”

Despite the discovery of oil in significant quantities in 2007,Ghanahashadtoresort to external assistance to revive its economy Large external shocks and preexisting fiscal and debt vulnerabilitieshaveescalated into an economic crisis, characterized by plummeting d o m e s t i c i n v e s t o r confidence, decreasing international reserves, currency depreciation, rising inflation, and a loss of internationalmarketaccess.

The result was an increasingly constrained

d o m e s t i c f i n a n c i n g environment and a reliance on monetary financing of the government.

Recognizing these deep challenges, Ghana has taken steps to rectify the situation, including accelerating fiscal adjustment and launching a comprehensive debt restructuringeffort.

The Extended Credit Facility arrangement provided by the IMF is expected to aid Ghana in overcoming immediate policy and financing challenges.

F u r t h e r m o r e , t h e government's Post COVID19 Programme for Economic

Growth (PC-PEG), which forms the basis of the ECF arrangement, seeks to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability and build resilience through widerangingreforms.

The focus is on a more inclusive and stronger growth trajectory, with capacity development and continued support from developmentpartnerscritical t o t h e s u c c e s s f u l implementation of the programme.

Despite its oil boom, the country has grappled with f i s c a l a n d d e b t vulnerabilities, underscoring the importance of prudent

33 cases disposed at April session of Demerara Criminal Assizes …17 presented in the High Court

Seventeen cases were presented in the High Court of the Demerara Criminal AssizesAprilsession.During this assizes, the State disposed of thirty-three matters;17werepresentedin the High Court. Of these, 10 were for the offence of murder, one for attempt to commit murder and four for sexual offences The remaining 18 matters were nolleprosequibytheDPP

According to release from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), thesessionwaspresidedover by three judges, Justices Sandil Kissoon, Navindra Singh and Priya SewnarineBeharry

Thereleasenotedthatthere were four convictions, four verdicts of not guilty, five guilty pleas, two formal verdicts of not guilty and one

mistrial.

Two matters are currently ongoing A total of 18 accused appeared in these mattersStateCounselCicelia Corbin,SimranGajraj,Rbina Christmas and Madana

Rampersaud presented 10 matters before Justice Kissoon; nine for the offence ofmurderandoneforattempt tocommitmurder

ln three of the murder cases, the trial judge upheld no case submissions and directed the juries to return formal verdicts of not guilty; in another four, the accused allpleadedguiltytothelesser offence of manslaughter and areawaitingsentence.

lnanothercase,theaccused

was acquitted by a unanimousjuryverdictofnot guilty

Meanwhile, two matters areinprogress.

m a c r o e c o n o m i c management.

For countries like Guyana,whichareenteringa phase of significant petroleum wealth, Ghana's experiences serve as a powerful reminder that oil alone is not the answer to a nation'seconomicissues.

In Guyana's case, its petroleum wealth is way more outsized when compared to the size of its population and economy Hence,thevulnerabilitiesare greater While petroleum

revenues can provide a substantial boost to the economy, they can also introduce volatility and potential dependence on a singleresource.

Therefore, local and regional stakeholders have said it is critical for the government to establish a robustregulatoryframework, ensure transparency and accountability, invest in h u m a n c a p i t a l a n d infrastructure, diversify the economy, and manage the petroleum revenues wisely

for both present and future generations.

IMF's support to Ghana indeed aims at rebuilding the country's economy, but the challenges faced by the West African nation should be a wake-up call for other resource-richcountries.

As many stakeholders have lamented, it is prudent and effective management of petroleum wealth that help oil-rich nations avoid the pitfalls of overdependence and ensure sustainable and inclusivegrowth.

ln the Sexual Offences Court, State Counsel Tiffini Lyken, Nafeeza Baig, and Praneeta Seeraj prosecuted four cases. ln two of these cases, the juries returned not guilty verdicts; in one other, the Court declared a mistrial andorderedtheaccused,who was charged with five counts of sexual offences to face a retrial after the jury failed to reach a decisive verdict. In the other one, the accused who was indicted on two counts, rape and assault causing grievous bodily harm was acquitted on the rape charge by a majority 10 to two jury verdict but was found unanimously guilty of assault causing grievous bodily harm. He is awaiting sentencing.

State Counsel Caressa Henry,LatiffaElliot,Alicia (Continued on page 61)

A Ghanaian protestor urges its leaders to fix the country (source: University of Aberdeen)

Digicel Guyana appoints new Chief Executive Officer

D i g i c e l G u y a n a announced yesterday that Deonarine Gopaul has been appointed as its new Chief ExecutiveOfficer

The company said in a statement that Gopaul brings extensive experience in the telecoms industry, most recently serving as CEO of Digicel Suriname which he willcontinuetoserve

Gopaul, who is Guyanese, made his initial entry into Telecoms with Celstar and the early part of the transition to Digicel in 2007 Since then he hasworkedforDigicelmarkets in senior roles in Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and Suriname He was appointed the Chief Executive role in Surinamein2018

In his new role, Gopaul will lead the development of D i g i c e l G u y a n a ’s comprehensive long-term vision,strategy,andexpansion plans. This is inclusive of expansionstomobileandfixed services that customers are already enjoying and the

landingofDeepBlueOnethe newsubseafibreinearly2024

“I am excited to be involved withthedeliveryof our ambitious plans for the Guyanese market and to lead this team of highly talented a n d e x p e r i e n c e d professionals” expressed Gopaul,whoassumeshisnew role as CEO of Digicel GuyanafromJune7,2023

Gopaultakesthereinsfrom Gregory Dean who has been withDigicelGuyanaforthepast

sixteen years Under Dean’s leadership Digicel Guyana becamethemobileproviderof choice in Guyana with the widest service and LTE coverage thus delivering on Digicel’s goal on entry to the market to provide service to everyone, everywhere in Guyana

Deanwillcontinuetoserve in an advisory position on the boardofDigicelGuyanawhile he spends more time with his family and entrepreneurial pursuits.Hestated,“Iwouldlike to express my gratitude

Digicel Guyana’s new CEO, Deonarine Gopaul

foremosttoourcustomerandto themanypersonsinandoutside ofDigicelwhohaveshapedmy journeyoverthepast16years I have known and worked with DeonarineformanyyearsandI havenodoubthewilltakethe businesstogreaterheights.”

Digicel Guyana is part of the Digicel Group which is a total communications and entertainment provider with operations in 31 markets throughout the Caribbean, Central America and Asia Pacific Digicelalsorunsahost of community-based initiatives across its markets, includingDigicelFoundations in Haiti, Jamaica, Papua New Guinea and Trinidad and Tobago which focus on educational,culturalandsocial developmentprogrammes.

Waterfalls The Waterfalls

Entrepreneur, Falisha Mohamed

An art exhibition by Natasha Knoopel

Art Galleries Carlos

V . Garcia (The Portal back to the Evolution)

Here’s how to retrain your brain Are you a stress eater?

(National Geographic)

To some extent, stress is experienced increases in the stress-inducing task, You’ve probably heard in the eye of the beholder, their systolic blood pressure. more people chose a highsomeone point out that the because people perceive By contrast, research fat, sweet snack a word stressed is desserts stress differently But there published in a 2020 issue of chocolate bar versus spelled backward, as a way are distinct differences Translational Psychiatry wholegrain crackers, potato of explaining cravings for between the way acute and found that people with chips, or a banana—than sweets when feeling chronicstressaffectappetite. obesity whose cortisol levels they did after the relaxing emotionally frayed But the Withacutestress(suchas spike and stay elevated for task. stressresponseisn’tthesame narrowly dodging a car longer than expected when Plus, stress-related patterns, you can try to instance where out-of-sight foreverybody accident or giving a responding to acute stress eating can distract you from recognize the trigger before and out-of-reach can force While some people eat presentation at work), consumed more food than the issues you’re grappling it leads you to the kitchen you to cultivate other coping more or gravitate toward appetite generally tends to people who are obese and with. “It’s not a bad thing in then introduce an alternative strategies. highly palatable, high- decrease, notes Laura have a low cortisol response. and of itself but if it’s your activity Ask yourself: What If you do have a habit of calorie foods when they’re H o l s e n , a c l i n i c a l Cumulative lifetime stress onlycopingmechanism,orif can I do instead?” Youcould snacking mindlessly or understress,otherslosetheir neuroscientist and associate also seems to influence it’s causing you distress or distract yourself from the overeating when you’re appetites.Andsomepeople’s professor of psychiatry at stress-relatedeating. health problems, it can be urge to nosh by going for a under stress, don’t beat eating habits don’t change at Brigham and Women’s Wo m e n w h o h a d problematic,”Smithsays. walk, calling a friend, or yourselfupaboutit. all. Hospital and Harvard experienced more stress Over time, stress-related r e a d i n g s o m e t h i n g Instead, show yourself

The reasons for the MedicalSchool. throughout life ate more eating can lead to weight interesting,forexample. the same compassion that differences are complex. With chronic or long- M&M’safterparticipatingin gain. Research has shown Goldman advises people you’d give to a friend “Science suggests that in term stress (such as being in a stressful task (preparing that depression and to cultivate “a coping Besides helping you feel humans it’s the interplay an unhappy marriage or anddeliveringaspeech)than emotional eating predicted toolbox” with at least three better, a study in a recent between behavioral, ongoing work stress), those who’d experienced greater weight gain over a tools—such as engaging in issue of the International environmental, and genetic appetite and food intake less,accordingtoastudyina seven-yearperiod. mindfulness meditation, Journal of Behavioral factors, that determines oftenincrease. 2023issueof Appetite And a study in a 2022 exercise, yoga, or writing M e d i c i n e found that someone’s susceptibility to Levels of the hormone The birth of a issue of Public Health about your feelings in a non- exercising self-compassion stress eating, ” notes ghrelin, which triggers coping mechanism N u t r i t i o n found that judgmental way—that can improved people’s dietary Kimberly Smith, who greater feelings of hunger, To some extent, the perceived stress and be used to manage stress and choices after a stressful studies eating behaviour and tend to “go up and stay up,” effects of stress on emotional eating were help you feelmore in control experience. is an assistant professor in Holsenexplains. someone’s appetite may be a associated with weight gain of your eating and your life. “Therecanbealotofbad the department of psychiatry And levels of leptin—a learned response, notes among healthy adults “Sometimes multiple tools feelings associated with and behavioral sciences at hormone that triggers Cheskin. “If you grew up in during the early COVID are needed,” she says, “and using food to cope with t h e J o h n s H o p k i n s feelings of fullness an environment where when lockdown yourgo-totoolfortodaymay stress but it’s incredibly University School of decrease after acute stress, people were stressed, they Getting a grip on stress- not be what works for you ingrained in our biology and MedicineinBaltimore. especially among people turned to food, you might be related appetite changes tomorrow.” our environment,” Holsen

For many people, “the whose weight is in the morelikelytoemulatethatin “As with most habits, the A l s o , “ i f y o u ’ r e says. release of cortisol can normal range, according to yourownlife.” solution is first to recognize susceptible to stress eating, “Talking about it can increase appetite and food research. If you have found that the pattern—identify what limiting the availability of normalize that this is a really intake, especially for high- These hormonal shifts eatingcookiesorchipswhen triggers your [emotion- high-fat, high sugar foods at c o m m o n h u m a n fat or high-sugar foods,” can rev up someone’s you’re feeling stressed out induced] eating episodes,” home or work can help,” experience—that can only Smithsays. appetite and reduce their helps you feel better, at least Cheskin says. “Once you see Smith says This is an beagoodthing.”

While cortisol has many senseofsatietywhenthey’re in the short term, it can functions,itiswidelyknown under stress, which could becomeyourgo-tostrategy as a stress hormone because lead them to lose control of Unfortunately, though, levels rise as a response to theireating. stress-related eating can intense pressure or high “Chronic stress also create a perpetuating cycle. anxiety—triggering hunger, leads to over-activation of After all, consuming sweet fat storage, and decreased the HPA [the hypothalamic- foods or starchy foods raises blood flow in brain regions pituitary-adrenal] axis, levels of the feel-good brain thatregulatefoodintake. which can result in a chronic chemicals serotonin and

People with high dietary increase in cortisol, which dopamine, says clinical restraint who intend to increases appetite and the psychologist Rachel limit food intake to manage driveforfood,”saysSmith. Goldman, a clinical assistant their weight—are also more Meanwhile, habitual professor in the department susceptible to stress eating. “emotional eaters” often of psychiatry at the NYU “They might throw caution experience a decrease in the Grossman School of to the wind and lose their activation of the reward Medicine.“Emotionaleating inhibition when they’re circuitry of the brain, serves a purpose. When you under stress, ” says research has found. As a eat comfort foods, it gastroenterologist Lawrence result, they have “a blunted immediately activates the Cheskin, chair of nutrition reward sensitivity to highly reward center in the brain, and food studies at George palatable foods, and the whichfeelsgood.”

Mason’s College of Public brain needs more high-fat, In a study in a 2022 issue Health and coauthor of high-sugar foods to get a of Foods, researchers had Weight Loss for Life reward response, which people participate in two

“How you cope with continues the cycle of different cognitive tasks on stress also can increase your overeating,”Smithexplains. alternate days one susceptibility—if you have a A s i m i l a r s t u d y designed to induce stress (an passive or avoidant coping published in Physiology & unsolvable anagram), the style,” Smith adds, “that can Behavior found that women other to elicit relaxation (a increase your vulnerability who are self-reported mandala coloring page)— tostresseating.” emotional eaters tended to then rate categories of foods

The nature of the stress eat more after completing based on what they’d prefer effect stressful mental tasks if they asa“thankyou”snack.After

Scientists are still figuring out how and why people respond differently to stress. If you’re an emotional eater, here’s some advice on how to create a new “coping toolbox.”

This Day in History - June 04

Henry Ford test – drives his “Quardricycle”

June4,1896

At approximately 4:00 a.m. on June 4, 1896,intheshedbehindhishomeonBagley Avenue in Detroit, Henry Ford unveils the “Quadricycle,” the first automobile he ever designedordrove.

Ford was working as the chief engineer forthemainplantoftheEdisonIlluminating Company when he began working on the Quadricycle. On call at all hours to ensure thatDetroithadelectricalservice24hoursa passing carriages and pedestrians, Ford day, Ford was able to use his flexible drove the 500-pound Quadricycle down workingscheduletoexperimentwithhispet Detroit’s Grand River Avenue, circling project—building a horseless carriage with around three major thoroughfares. The a gasoline-powered engine. His obsession Quadricycle had two driving speeds, no withthegasolineenginehadbegunwhenhe reverse, no brakes, rudimentary steering saw an article on the subject in a November abilityandadoorbellbuttonasahorn,andit 1895 issue of American Machinist could reach about 20 miles per hour, easily magazine. The following March, another overpowering King’s invention.Aside from Detroit engineer named Charles King took one breakdown on Washington Boulevard hisownhand-builtvehicle—madeofwood, due to a faulty spring, the drive was a it had a four-cylinder engine and could success, and Ford was on his way to travel up to five miles per hour—out for a becoming one of the most formidable ride, fueling Ford’s desire to build a lighter success stories in American business andfastergasoline-poweredmodel.

With Bishop bicycling ahead to alert

history

The U-505 submarine from Hitler’s deadly fleet, is captured

June4,1944

One of Adolf Hitler’s deadlysubmarines,theU505, is seized as it makes its way home after patrolling the Gold Coast ofAfrica on June 4, 1944.

The German submarine was the first enemy warship captured on the high seas by the U.S. Navy since the War of 1812.

If ever there was a submarine laden with bad luck,itwasGermany’sU505.

Jonathan Pollard admits to selling top-secret information to Israel

June4,1986 discovery of his betrayal put Jonathan Pollard pleads a chill on the relationship guilty to espionage for between the U.S. and Israel. selling top-secret U S Viewing the U.S. as its ally, military intelligence Israel believed that the information to Israel. The information should have former Navy intelligence been passed along anyway analyst sold enough ButthefactthatsomeIsraeli classified documents to fill agents remained in high amedium-sizedroom. positions despite their Pollard was arrested in involvement in the November 1985 after espionage angered the authorities learned that he UnitedStates. hadbeenmeetingwithIsraeli Israel has since stuck by agents every two weeks for information included Pollard During peace the last year He was paid satellite photos and data on negotiations mediated by approximately $50,000 for Sovietweapons. President Clinton in the late the highly sensitive Pollard was sentenced to 1990s, the nation made documents and expected to life in prison while his wife Pollard’s release from prison receive as much as $300,000 Anne received a five-year a key point. Pollard was in a secret Swiss bank sentence for being an releasedfromprison,andput account The top-secret accessory to the crimes. The onparole,in2015.

Chinese crackdown on protests leads to Tiananmen Square Massacre

June4,1989

In May 1989, nearly a million Chinese, mostly young students, crowded into central Beijing to protest for greater democracy and call for the resignations of Chinese Communist Party leaders deemed too repressive. For nearly three weeks, the protesters kept up daily vigils, and marched and chanted. Western reporters setting fire to military reformprogramandbeginto captured much of the drama vehicles Reporters and democratize the Chinese f o r t e l e v i s i o n a n d Western diplomats on the politicalsystem. newspaper audiences in the scene estimated that at least In the United States, UnitedStatesandEurope. 300, and perhaps thousands, editorialistsandmembersof

On June 4, 1989, of the protesters had been Congress denounced the however, Chinese troops killedandasmanyas10,000 Ti a n a n m e n S q u a r e and security police stormed werearrested. massacre and pressed for through Tiananmen Square, The savagery of the President George Bush to firing indiscriminately into Chinese government’s punish the Chinese the crowds of protesters. attackshockedbothitsallies government. A little more Turmoil ensued, as tens of and Cold War enemies than three weeks later, the thousands of the young Soviet leader Mikhail U S Congress voted to students tried to escape the Gorbachev declared that he impose economic sanctions rampaging Chinese forces. was saddened by the events against the People’s Other protesters fought in China. He said he hoped Republic of China in back, stoning the attacking that the government would response to the brutal troops and overturning and adopt his own domestic violationofhumanrights.

David was posthumously awarded the

Despite sinking eight Allied ships early in the war, the German WW II 505, salvaging the U-boat and recovering U-boat suffered repeated damage while on a invaluable code books and papers that were number of patrols and was further marred by used by Allied forces to help in codethe suicide of its second commanding officer breaking. whileonboard.

The submarine had been tracked by Medal of Honor for his actions. The 58 Allied intelligence via radio waves. It was captured Germans, deemed prisoners of war, spotted during a sonar sweep 150 miles from were sent to a POW camp in Ruston, the coast of Rio De Oro,Africa by a “hunter- Louisiana, while the U-505 was towed 2,500 killer” task group commanded by U.S. Navy nauticalmilestoBermuda. Capt. Daniel V Gallery His command The top-secret capture of the submarine included the USS Chatelain, USS was not made public until after Germany’s Guadalcanal, USS Flaherty, USS Jenks, USS May 7, 1945 surrender, and the U-505 was Pillsbury and USS Pope eventually part of a military fundraising tour

After the surrendered German survivors On September 25, 1954, the submarine was were picked up from the U-boat (all but one named a war memorial and, in 1989, it lived),Lt.(juniorgrade)AlbertL.Davidleda received National Historic Landmark group of nine men down the hatch of the U- designation.

Martha Stewart indicted for securities fraud and obstruction of justice

June4,2003 including charges of Bacanavic, were handed the For domestic guru and obstruction of justice, indictments following an media mogul Martha securities fraud, conspiracy investigation of her sale of Stewart, known for her andmakingfalsestatements. ImClone Systems stock “goodthings”tipsandtricks, Stewart, CEO and Bacanavic was charged with things turn very bad when a chairwoman of Martha obstruction, conspiracy, federal grand jury serves her Stewart Living Omnimedia making false statements and andherformerstockbrokera Inc., and her former Merrill perjury Then61-year-old nine-count indictment, Lynch broker, Peter (Continued on page 27)

Compiled by Richard Francois. (From history.com)

U-505

Jonathan Pollard

Tiananmen Square

Autonomousweapons–arealandurgentdangertopeople

By: Sir. Ronald Sanders

As if small states, with limited financial and human resources to safeguard their societies, do not confront enough grave challenges, here comes the p h e n o m e n o n o f “autonomous weapons” –p r o b a b l y t h e m o s t frightening technological development that has yet beencreated.

Why should small states be concerned? They should alreadybedeeplytroubledby the increase in violence in their societies, including the escalation of homicides, caused by the expanded number of conventional weapons being brought into their territories by organized criminals.

There is now hardly any country that is not experiencing gangs, gang violence, armed robberies, rapes,drive-byshootingsand murder In almost every case,illegalgunsareused.

Autonomous weapons in the hands of organized criminals would raise the problem of murders, assassinations, and even targeted destruction to new and frightening heights. For instance, it is now possible to enter facial recognition into a drone equipped to shoot to kill. The drone can then sift images of persons over whom it flies, select a body it believes matches the face, and shoot the person, flying awayundetected.

These autonomous weapons are not restricted to drones. They come in a variety of forms including robots, programmed for warfare. They can also be devices which are planted in built up areas, for instance,

and programmed to detonate from great distances Imagining the use to which such autonomous weapons could be put by criminals, or even by mentally troubled persons, should terrify everyone, especially law enforcement agencies such as the police, and agencies concerned with fighting drug t r a ff i c k i n g , p e o p l e traffickingandotherformsof crime.

All this is good reason why small states in the Caribbean and everywhere should immediately join the growing international movement to prohibit and regulate autonomous weaponssystems.

But, given their own peculiar circumstances of small size, limited human and financial resources, escalating crime and the fearful prospect of autonomous weapons in the hands of criminals, small states should consider banning such weapons now, e v e n a h e a d o f a n y international convention which will take years to negotiate and agree, and which, like many other treaties, would be unlikely to take account of the circumstances of small states The government of Costa Rica, in Central America, should be congratulated for the leadership it is providing in alerting nations and their law enforcement agencies to the real and present danger of autonomousweapons.

Last February, the government of Costa Rica a n d a l o c a l n o ngovernmental organization, convened a Conference which was attended by many countries from Latin America and the Caribbean,

as well as officials from 13 other nations, including France, Germany, Japan, Nigeria, Russia, and the UnitedStates.

From this conference, a Communiqué was issued, calling for collaboration to promote the urgent n e g o t i a t i o n o f a n international legally binding instrument,withprohibitions and regulations governing autonomous weapons, and which would take account of International Humanitarian L a w , a n d e t h i c a l perspectives, as well as the prevention of the social and humanitarian impact that autonomy in weapons s y s t e m s e n t a i l The adoption of this Communiqué was an important first step, but it lacked sufficient high-level political participation Consequently, the political decision makers and legislators are not yet adequately informed of the enormous dangers posed by autonomous weapons. In this regard, the media has a role to play in researching, analyzing and reporting on the urgency of this issue, helping to inform decision makers and the general public in their countries Severalgovernments,around the world, are heavily investing in the military applications of autonomous weapons, which are part of the development ofArtificial I n t e l l i g e n c e ( A I ) technologies. Among these countries are China, India, Iran, Israel, Russia, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the UnitedStates.

Indeed,weaponssystems with autonomous functions are already being used in Ukraineandotherconflicts.

These countries are

Martha Stewart indicted for...

From page 25

Stewart resigned almost immediately from her position once the charges were made (she stayed on the board and as chief creative officer) But she and Bacanavic both pleaded not guilty to the indictments brought by former Manhattan U.S. Attorney and future FBI Director James Comey

Prosecutors charged that in 2001 Stewart was tipped off by BacanovicthatImClone’sstockwasgoingto drop after the company’s owner received inside information that the Food and Drug Administration was going to decline to review an application for the company’s cancer drug. Stewart shed her nearly 4,000 ImClone shares—worth $230,000—one day beforetheFDAdecisionwasannounced.

Attrial,afederaljuryfoundStewart,who maintained her innocence, guilty of conspiracy, obstruction and two counts of

lying to federal investigators (a securities fraud charge was dismissed) on March 5, 2004. Bacanavic was found guilty on four of hisfivecharges.

An appeal for a new trial was denied, and Stewart was sentenced to five months at a West Virginia minimum-security federal prison. She served out the sentence in 2004, and then served five months of house arrest and two years of probation. Stewart resigned from her company’s board, keeping the title offoundingeditorialdirector

unlikely to stop their use of these weapons, and like most other weapons developed for military use, they will be bought and abused by criminals and others for criminal purposes, beyond the capacity of law enforcementagencies.

So far, the pleas of many significant international figures to legislate against these weapons have been ignored Among these persons are the Pope; BanKi-Moon, the former UN Secretary-General, and the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions Perhaps the pre-eminent group to which the world should be listening is a group of engineers,AI and robotics experts, and other scientists and researchers from thirtyseven countries. They have issued the “Scientists' Call to Ban Autonomous Lethal Robots”, in which they insist that “decisions about the application of violent force must not be delegated to machines.”

Groups arguing for legally binding instruments to maintain human control over these weapons have

stressed that “a

f u n d a m e n t a l

c o n d i t i o n o f

i n t e r n a t i o n a l humanitarian law, requires that some person must be held

responsible for civiliandeaths.

Any weapon or other means of war that makes it impossible to identify responsibility for the casualties it causes does not meet the requirements of jus in bello (the right conduct in war) and, therefore, should notbeemployedinwar.”

If, in war, there is a limitation on accountability and who could be brought to justice,inthedaytodaylives of ordinary citizens, the use of such weapons to kill or destroy, is even worse Anonymity of the person, responsible for death or destruction though the use of autonomous weapons could put them beyond the reach of the justice system and fling the doors wide open to anarchy

Nearly 70 countries now openly support a new legal framework to govern and regulate autonomy in weapons systems But

waiting for international treaties to be negotiated does not stop small states from acting within their own jurisdictions to adopt laws, prohibiting the importation and use of autonomous weapons and applying stiff penaltiesforviolations. The issue is real, and it is now Responses and previous c o m m e n t a r i e s : w w w sirronaldsanders.com

(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com)

Sir. Ronald Sanders

Martha Stewart

Mythsofexerciseandweightloss(Part2)

ByDavinaBagot

This week we continue with our series that started two weeks ago on myths of exercise and weight loss.Itisquiteeasyforustobelieve anythingweseeontheinternetbut one of the things I learned on my journey to weight loss was to always double and triple check on certainthings.

STICKINGTOAB EXERCISESWILLGIVE MEASIXPACK

If you are desperately trying to build your six-pack, constantly doing abdominals only will not help you achieve your goal.While they are a great method for

dramatically decreased from 10 to 12 percent in men and about 11 to 13percentforwomen.

The journey to a six-pack will require strict dedication to a healthydietandexercise.

NOPAIN,NOGAIN

Thisisperhapsoneofthemost important things to remember while exercising. You may be inclined to believe that without pain there is no gain, however pushingyourbodyduringexercise whileinpaincanputyouinserious danger

neckwasstilltherebutIcontinued withafewreps.

Thefollowingmorning,Iwoke up with a headache and neck pain that I am still trying to treat. My point is, if you feel like something is off, do not continue pushing yourself.

Manyathleteslivebythemotto “nopain,nogain”butpainisyour body sending you a message that something is wrong Feeling uncomfortableduringaworkoutis normalbutfeelingpainisnot.

are great additions when exercising. They however are not necessary after hitting the gym. The nutritional benefits from a protein shake or supplements, which can be very expensive,cancomefromfoodswe usually consume. These include milk, meat, chocolate or even peanutbutter

If you are already used to the gym, you know the importance of protein in your diet. It helps to repair tissues after a session and aids in building muscles in weight training.

AtipsharedbytheMayoClinic is to consume protein-rich foods within 30-minutes after a workout as this is when the muscles absorb the energy since they are still burningandworking.

IFI’MNOTSWEATING THENI’MNOTWORKING HARDENOUGH

Recently, I noticed that my bodywasn’tsweatingasmuchasit usually did during exercise. I felt like I wasn’t working out hard enough and decided to check why this was happening. I learnt that sweatingisaninaccuratemethodof measuring the efficacy of your workout.

developing core muscles and help to improve balance and stability, these exercises alone will make your journey to your ab-dream evenlonger Researchshowsthataperson’s

overall body fat prevents abs from beingseen.Thismeans,ifyouwant asix-pack,youreffortswillhaveto targetdifferentpartsofthebodyas well The Mayo Clinic recommends that body fat can be

Only on Wednesday, I was exercising at home- doing leg lifts when I felt like I was straining my neck.Iusuallydolegliftsathome andhadneverexperiencedthepain before.Istoppedforabitandtried to adjust my body before continuing again. The pain in my

Mayo Clinic says “If you start to feel pain during a workout, stop immediately If you continue to push through it, you could end up withaseriousinjury.”

PROTEINSHAKESARE SUPPLEMENTSSHOULDBE TAKENAFTERWORKOUTS

Proteinshakesandsupplements

The Mayo Clinic says that sweating shouldn’t be a gauge of how hard you’re working during yourroutine.“Manyfactorsgointo theamountapersonsweats,suchas the temperature, humidity and hydration levels. Your body just could be efficient at cooling itself, aswell.”

Common protein supplements

If you are feeling pain during your exercise, do not continue pushing yourself.

What Is White Chocolate, Exactly?

(Reader’s Digest) The first original chocolate equation white chocolate isn’t really modern chocolate bar was entirely, using only the cocoa chocolate because it doesn’t invented in 1847, but it wasn’t butter And here’s more food contain chocolate solids. But if until 1930 that white chocolate facts trivia you might not know: chocolate could talk, it’d tell appeared on the scene. Invented The flavor of white chocolate youjusttheopposite.According by Switzerland’s Nestlé canvarywildlybetweenbrands. tothetechnicaldefinition,white Corporation, white chocolate Some taste of rich cocoa butter chocolate most certainly w a s u n l i k e a n y t h i n g Some are aggressively sweet. qualifies. chocolatiers had ever seen And some have a subtle hint of So, what is chocolate, before. Nearly a century later, vanillaflavoring. technically speaking? It’s chocolate lovers are still Keep reading to find out defined as a food made from the wondering: What is white what white chocolate is how it roasted and ground pods of the chocolate? tastes, and whether it’s as cacao tree.After harvesting, the Made from the same cacao healthy as other types of pods are cracked open, and the beans as other chocolates, white chocolate. beans are removed and left out chocolate production involves a Is white chocolate for several days to naturally littletwist.Chocolatierstakethe actually chocolate? ferment.Next,thebeansare brown cocoa solids out of the You may have heard that (Continued on page 39)

Photo Credit (SAY-CHEESE/GETTY IMAGES)

Apple may soon show off its biggest and riskiest new hardware product in years

(CNN) Next week, and with applications,” said we could pull up something Apple’s new headset is excited for a new headset active users in Horizon Apple may unveil its most Ramon Llamas, a director at digitally and both see it and also expected to pack apps competitor, especially one Worlds, its app for ambitious new hardware market research firm IDC. begintocollaborateonitand for gaming, fitness and that likely brings strong socializinginVR. product in years, but it’s in a “Andbecause[themarket]is createwithit,”hesaid.

meditation, and offer access developer and content

On Monday, Apple may The rumored headset million AR/VR headsets struggled over the years.

On Thursday, Meta CEO product category that is – for all intents and purposes The early potential for to iOS apps such as support along with it,” said Mark Zuckerberg tried to anything but a proven – still in its initial stages, AR can be seen in some Messages, FaceTime and Eric Abbruzzese, research p r e e m p t t h e A p p l e winner Apple can help shape the iPhone apps like Ikea Place Safari, according to direction at market research announcementbyteasingthe Appleiswidelyexpected narrativeofwhatAR/VRcan and Measure, as well as Bloomberg With the firm ABI Research who more affordable Meta Quest to introduce a “mixed be like and make money off various Apple Watch apps. FaceTime option, for focusesonARandVR.“Soit 3 headset ($499), which reality” headset at its annual of it with devices and For example, iPhone users example, the headset will is great timing for that p r o m i s e s i m p r o v e d developer event on Monday services.” can point the device’s “render a user’s face and full market.” performance, new mixedthatoffersbothvirtualreality Apple’s long bet on cameraatatableandavirtual body in virtual reality,” An uncertain market realityfeaturesandasleeker, and augmented reality, a augmented reality tape measure appears to according to Bloomberg, to For now, the overall morecomfortabledesign. technology that overlays Apple CEO Tim Cook allow them to take its create the feeling that both headset market remains Other headsets and virtual images on live video haslongexpressedinterestin measurements. are“inthesameroom.” small There were 8 8 smartglasses products have oftherealworld. augmentedreality

The highly-anticipated Google recently stopped release of anAR/VR headset selling Glass, a decade after would be Apple’s biggest it was first unveiled. And hardware product launch Snapchat’s parent company since the debut of the Apple has made multiple efforts to Watch in 2015. It could createsmartsunglasses,after signal a new era for the taking a nearly $40 million company and potentially writedown for excess revolutionize how millions inventory of the product interact with computers and earlyon. theworldaroundthem.

Abbruzzese said the first

But even for Apple, with wave of consumer demand its formidable track record, for Apple’s headset could this launch faces challenges come from devoted Apple onmultiplefronts. fans who are deep in the

T h e c o m p a n y i s c o m p a n y ’s p r o d u c t reportedly considering a ecosystem and see the value $3,000 price tag for the ofconnectingAppleservices device,farmorethanmostof tothenewheadset. its products and testing Apple could then push potential buyers at a time of for a more “mass market lingering uncertainty in the headset” in 2024 or 2025, global economy Other tech Abbruzzesesaid. companies have struggled to

As with Apple’s prior find mainstream traction for h a r d w a r e p r o d u c t s , headsets. And in the years consumers don’t always

In a 2016 interview with showhowitplanstotakeAR could appeal to more shipped globally last year,

thatApple has been rumored flock to the first-generation the Washington Post, Cook tothenextlevel. consumers once it comes according to data from tobeworkingontheproduct, version Developers also said: “I think AR is Apple’s headset is down in price or introduces market research firm IDC. the tech community has need time to build extremely interesting and reported to have two main enough compelling apps and That represented a 21% shifted its focus from VR to applications that would be a sortofacoretechnology So, functions: a virtual reality experiences. But to start, the declinefromtheprioryear another buzzy technology: drawforawideraudience. yes, it’s something we’re setting and a mixed-reality audiencemaybelimited. By comparison, Apple is artificialintelligence. Unlike almost any other doing a lot of things on component, which lets users Some experts believe reported to sell hundreds of But if any company can company, however, Apple behind that curtain that we see augmented reality Apple’s rumored headset millionsofiPhonesayear prove skeptics wrong, it’s can create demand for an talked about ” In an objects projected onto the may resonate most with the Facebook-parent Meta, Apple. The company’s entry experimental new product or interview earlier this year real world According to enterprise market and enable which dominates the nascent into the market combined category. Apple also has a with GQ, Cook talked up the Bloomberg, the device, various applications such as VRmarket,faceschallenges, with its vast customer base secret weapon that many of potential for AR to help which could be called training and education. It too It has come under has the potential to breathe its peers do not: hundreds of people communicate and RealityOneorRealityPro,is could also allow for pressure from investors for new life into the world of stores where consumers can collaboratewitheachother expected to have an iOS-like collaboration in meetings losing billions on its efforts headsets. walk in and potentially try

“We might be able to interface, display immersive with more immersive to build VR products and a

“Just like its other theheadsetout. collaborate on something video and include cameras v i d e o c o n f e r e n c i n g virtual world called the devices – Macs, iPads, “Apple does not need to much easier if we were and sensors to allow users to capabilities and tools like metaverse. The Wall Street iPhones, and Watches – this do much other than be sitting here brainstorming controlitviatheirhands,eye virtualwhiteboards. Journal reported last year represents a new way to Apple,” Abbruzzese said about it and all of a sudden movementsandwithSiri. “Theenterprisemarketis that Meta had just 200,000 interact digitally with others “Therewillbeinterest.”

Billboard’s Music Guide: New Music From The Weeknd, Madonna, Playboi Carti. Foo Fighters and More

(Billboard) Billboard’s swooping in with some nifty Kendall, Shiv and Roman Music Guide serves as a embellishments: listen to pre-boardroom drama: handy guide to this wek’s how the team-up takes off what looks like an odd most essential releases — into the stratosphere when a collection of artists on the key music that everyone trap beat and more paper complement each will be talking about today, production effects arrive in other nicely, with The and that will be dominating thesong’sfinalminute. Weeknd and Madonna playlists this weekend and providing pop flourishes beyond. over plinking rhythms and

This week, The Weeknd Carti accentuating the song stands alongside fellow with some clipped bars to Idols Madonna and polish off what could be Playboi Carti, Foo akickysummersong. Fighters pay tribute to a Foo Fighter, But fallen brother and Peso Here WeAre Pluma lays down a

A press release for session with Bizarrap.

Foo Fighters’ latest Check out all of this album describes But week’spicksbelow: Here We Are as “hard-

Peso Pluma & f o u g h t ” a n Bizarrap, “BZRPMusic u n d e r s t a n d a b l e Sessions, Vol. 55” description, considering the

Considering how their shocking death of drummer respective rises have been Taylor Hawkins last year similarly meteoric, the The Weeknd with Playboi and the band’s decision to pairing of Peso Pluma and Carti & Madonna, continue recording and Bizarrap, on the latest “Popular” touring in spite of his edition of the latter’s viral This week, one HBO absence Produced with YouTube series, constitutes Sunday-night franchise Greg Kurstin and featuring one of the biggest shuts down and another some of Dave Grohl’s most collaborations of 2023, in opens up, as the series n a k e d l y h e a r t f e l t any genre — an unlikely finale of Succession is songwriting to date, But proposition just a few followed by the premiere of Here We Are finds power in months ago Yet “BZRP the controversy-courting grief: the 10-minute “The Music Sessions, Vol. 55” music industry drama The Teacher” towers above the makes the most of the Idol , co-starring The rest of the album with ascendant Mexican artist’s Weeknd On “Popular,” the choked-up ambition, but effective. increasingly ubiquitous latest track from the series’ straightforward rockers like

Metro Boomin, Spidercroon and the Argentine forthcoming soundtrack, “The Glass,” where Growl Man:Across the Spider- producer’s knack for letting The Weeknd, Madonna and howls “I hada visionof you, Verse soundtrack his collaborators shine, then Playboi Carti function like and just like that / I was left The Spider-Man: Across to livewithoutit,”arejust as the Spider-Verse soundtrack combines two successful brand names: the 2018 animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse produced the No 1 hit “Sunflower” by Swae Lee and Post Malone, while Metro Boomin, who helms the sequel soundtrack, has been scorching hot himself lately, thanks for last year’s Heroes & Villains albums and its top 10 smash “Creepin.”

Like its predecessor, the Across the Spider-Verse set boasts a cavalcade of hiphop superheroes — Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Wayne, Offset, latest Billboard cover story O D D I N A R Y a n d A$AP Rocky but One listen to new album MAXIDENT, both topped contains a greater cohesion Whitsitt Chapel, however, the Billboard 200 chart, thanks to Metro’s watchful will convince you that Jelly givingtheK-popcollectivea eye; in addition to Roll’s stardom was place in the history books. unexpected turns by James preordained: nimble enough Anticipation around 5-Star BlakeandNasonstandalone to hopscotch across sounds, hasreachedafeverpitch,but tracks, we also get a pair of clamp down on an anthem if Stray Kids feel any Swae Lee Spider-Verse and transform his most pressure, they certainly curtain calls, “Calling” and intimate failings into don’texhibitanounceonthe “Annihilate.” universal inspiration, the ultra-confident 5-Star, Jelly Roll, singer-songwriter has which once again combines Whitsitt Chapel translated his gifts onto a pop, rap, dance and Jason DeFord, better grand scale with the project, electronica into a product known as Jelly Roll, knows and is likely to provoke a that caters to the group that he is an unlikely music sizableresponse. members’ individual skill star,toputitmildly:“It’sthe Stray Kids, 5-Star sets and features some of the f–king wildest story ever to C o m m e r c i a l group’s punchiest cuts, me,” he says of his rise expectations are naturally including the wild-eyed acrossmultiplegenrecharts, high for Stray Kids’ latest openingshot“HallofFame” after years of false starts and project — after all, their two and the whisper-hook-laden run-ins with the law, in the mini-albums from 2022, “SuperBowl.”

The Weeknd with Playboi Carti & Madonna

Peso Pluma & Bizarrap

Foo Fighter

Metro Boomin, Spider-Man

Jelly Roll

“Untamable Spirit of the Native Land”:

Natasha Knoppel Art Galleries is thrilled to

announce“UntamableSpiritoftheNativeLand” featuring thirty paintings and sculptures by seven renowned artists at theAtlantic WorldArt Fair 2023. OndisplayatArtsyfromJune1stuntilJune15th2023,their presentation offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in thevisualvocabularyofcontemporaryCaribbeanartthatisa testament to the diverse historical influences, rich cultural heritage,andcreativevitalityoftheregion.

Theexhibitionalsoreflectstheongoingdialoguebetween tradition and innovation, and the dynamic interplay between local and global influences that continue to shape art of the Caribbean,theAtlanticIslands,andtheirwiderDiasporas.

THE ARTISTS’PROFILES

ThesevenartistsshowcasingtheirworksareDominique Hunter, Jason Hope, Fabrice Loval, Carlos V. Garcia, FranklinDelanoPengel,JonaGiovanni,andRayDaal.

DOMINIQUE HUNTER

TheexhibitionpresentssixworksbyDominiqueHunter (Guyana) who illuminates the experiences of those who embarkonwhatshereferstoas“minimigrations”withinthe Caribbeancontext.Shenavigatesthespacesbetween“here” and “there” - anywhere else usually viewed as better than “here” - unraveling the range of emotions that unfold throughoutthejourney

Herexplorationhasrecentlyexpandedtoincorporatethe value of self-care practices in improving mental health and quality of life, shedding light on the unexplored facets of vulnerabilitywithintheblackfemaleexperience.

HuntergraduatedfromtheE.R.BurrowesSchoolofArt as Best Graduating Student in 2007 and received her BFA from the Barbados Community College in 2015 with first class honours. In addition to securing silver and bronze medals in Castellani House’s 7th and 8th Biennial National DrawingCompetitionin2008and2010respectively,shehas also secured a silver medal at the Guyana Visual Arts CompetitionandExhibitionin2014.Shewonthegoldmedal

Continued on page 41

From left, Dominique Hunter (Check In), Giovanni Jona (Krakti), Jason Hope (Vision Tree), Ray Daal (Belly Dancer and her Drummer

Carlos V. Garcia (The Portal back to the Evolution)

An art exhibition by Natasha Knoopel Art Galleries

What Is White Chocolate...

From page 29 dried and roasted, and their shells are removed and discarded What’s left is known as a cacao nib—the base element of all things chocolate.

The cacao nibs are ground into a thick, oily pastecalledchocolateliquor, which is then separated into two different products: cocoa solids and cocoa butter Cocoa solids are brown,flavorful,andusedto make dark and milk chocolate.

Cocoa butter is pure fat and can be used to make white chocolate Even though they’re made from different components, brown chocolate and white chocolate both come from thesamecacaopod.

But just because white chocolate is technically chocolate doesn’t mean everyone recognizes it as such. Outside of its culinary definition, for reasons of taxation and regulation,

chocolate also has legal definitions, which are different in every country In the European Union, chocolate may not have any less than 35 percent dry cocoasolids.

In America, chocolate that contains cocoa solids is d e f i n e d a s “ s w e e t chocolate,” whereas white chocolate has its own distinctdefinition.

What is white chocolate made from?

White chocolate is made by blending cocoa butter with sugar, milk products, vanilla, and lecithin, which is a naturally derived fatty acid that’s used as an emulsifier. According to the F o o d a n d D r u g Administration, white chocolate must be at least 20 percent cocoa butter and 14 percent milk solids by weight and may not consist of more than 55 percent sugar or any other sweeteners. P a s t t h o s e t h r e e

mandatory ingredients, the FDAallows white chocolate to be made with any or all of thefollowingingredients:

·Emulsifiers

·Spices

· Natural and/or artificial flavorings

·Nuts

·Coffee

·Malt

·Salt

·Antioxidants

The most common flavoring used in white chocolate is vanilla, but manufacturersareallowedto use almost any sort of flavoring they wish However the FDA does not allow white chocolate to be flavored with anything that tasteslikechocolate,milk,or butter

What does white chocolate taste like?

A high-quality white chocolate bar will taste rich and buttery, with notes of sweetcreamandaluxurious, velvetymouthfeel.

Many white chocolates

have a hint of vanilla flavoring, which helps intensify the flavor of the cocoa butter Lower-quality white chocolate is sweeter, as it contains more sugar, which is cheap, and less cocoa butter and dairy, whicharemoreexpensive. White chocolate vs. milk chocolate

W h i t e c h o c o l a t e contains milk and cocoa butter, just like milk chocolate does. But milk chocolate also contains at least 10 percent chocolate solids, whereas white chocolate has none. As for

other types of chocolate, semisweet contains about 60 percent chocolate solids, while bittersweet and dark chocolate contain 70 percent ormore.

Is white chocolate healthier?

While it’s true that chocolate does have some health benefits, it’s difficult to make the argument that white chocolate is a health food Even though it

c o n t a i n s c o c o a butter which is high in vitamin D2, potassium, phosphorus, iron, copper, and magnesium the

primary ingredient in white chocolateissugar

In other words, an alternate answer to the question “what is white chocolate?” is this: an occasionalindulgence. What is the healthiest chocolate?

Chocolate’s most substantial health benefits come from the flavonoids in cocoa solids, so as a rule, the darker the chocolate, the better If you’re eating chocolate for your heath, sticktodarkchocolatewitha cocoa percentage of 70 percentormore.

Lessons from a Lashpreneur!!! Wearing strip lashes on top of extensions and why you shouldn’t

By Latoya Zephyr line If y o u

Hey lash babes, this week we are ‘gonna’ applythem talk about something that we get asked often correctly “can I wear strip lashes on my extensions?” fine but more TheshortanswerisNO. often than not, there is

Whether you have a costume party or excessgluethatcanseepintoyourextensions specialoccasioncomingup,sometimesitcan causing them to clump together This makes betemptingtowearstriplashesontopofyour the removal of the strip eyelashes very eyelash extensions for a more dramatic look. difficult.

Asqualifiedlashartist,istronglyrecommend THEY CAN CAUSE ISSUESATYOUR youavoiddoingthis. INFILLAPPOINTMENT.

But first, what are strip lashes? Strip If you regularly wear eyelash extensions lashes are a horizontal line of lashes attached andhaveoptedtogluestriplashesontopfora to a fabric band, they’re applied with a recent event, your lash artist will be able to removableadhesiveandshouldonlybeworn tellatyournextinfillappointment.Ifthey’ve foroneday caused too much damage with the excess

While strip lashes are a good alternative glue, we may need to remove all of your ontheirown,theyshouldn’tbewornontopof lashesandapplyanewsetoflashes. eyelashextensions.Here’swhy.

SOME STRIPLASHESARE MADE

THEYADD TOO MUCH WEIGHT FROM LOW QUALITY MATERIALS.

We assess the health of every client’s Most strip eyelashes are often made from natural lashes before each appointment to plastic or rubber and don’t look as natural as ensure we aren’t overloading the natural lash extensions. If you apply these heavier, with extensions they can’t support. The synthetic materials over your fluffy eyelash problemwithaddingstripeyelashesontopof extensions, it will put unnecessary strain on your extensions is that it adds extra weight yournaturallashes.Thiscancausethemtobe which hasn’t been accounted for This extra brittle and weak. At lift and lashes, our weight can cause damage to your natural eyelash extensions are the highest quality lashes. which means you’ll achieve a natural look

THE GLUE CAN STICK YOUR thatmakesyoureyespop.

EXTENSIONS TOGETHER If you have an event coming up that you Eyelash extensions are carefully applied want extra volume in your lashes for, talk to to your individual lashes. At lift and lashes, your lash artist. We can customise a look we isolate each individual lash and bond an that’s perfect for the occasion without extension directly to it. However, strip causing any lash damage. Our artists have eyelashes (also known as fake eyelashes or lotsoftechniquestochangeupyourlashstyle fakies) are glued to the skin along your lash tosuitanyevent.

“Untamable Spirit of the Native Land”:An art exhibition by...

From page 38 at the Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition in2019forherwork“CheckIn”,whichwillbeonviewon occasion of “Untamable SpiritoftheNativeLand”

Jason Hope

Jason Hope (Barbados) presents 3 paintings and one sculpture - exploring his identity and perspective at the world as a Barbadian of African descent by seamlesslyweavingtogether e l e m e n t s f r o m h i s surroundings, including math, science, music, the political and social fabric of society

His expressive and contemporary abstract style, infused with elements of Surrealism, takes form through layered sculptures and paintings, capturing the essence of human forms and the intricate social structures theycreate.

Hope won The Prime Minister's Award at the National Independence Festival of the Creative Arts in 2013, the 2014 Purchase Award, the Governor General's Award of Excellence in 2015 and 2016, and the Governor General's Award in 2015 at the Crop Over Visual Arts Exhibition.

At theAWAF 2023 Hope presents his Vision series, consisting of three paintings inspired by the 2018 Barbadian political landscape.

BesidestheVisionseries, “Free We Earthen Spirit”, a mixed media sculpture composed of wood, coral render, sawdust and coral dust, that examines the fragmented Barbadian identity post emancipation, isfeatured.

Fabrice Loval

Fabrice Loval (French Guiana) presents three paintings and one mixed media sculpture with the Amazon rainforest as the dominanttheme.

Loval draws inspiration from the rainforest's strength, beauty, and the urgent need to preserve this remarkableenvironmentand the indigenous peoples who callithome.

His paintings often intertwine female figures or body parts, embodying nature as feminine, reminiscent of ancestral goddesses.

Loval addresses the opposingforcesthatthreaten thesurvivaloftherainforest, including themes as gold mining, appearing in a goldcoloured painting that is presented.

The mixed media sculpture “La Derrière” that combines wood, plaster and

synthetic textiles, is part of a series that represents a humorous sneer at hunting traditions, a word-play and criticism on the attack of our fauna.

Carlos V. Garcia

From the Cayman Islands we present one painting titled “The Portal Back to the Evolution” by Carlos V. Garcia. In this painting a Neanderthaler from the past meets a f u t u r i s t i c A n d r o i d , triggeringseveralimmediate interpretations and ethical concernschallengingourong o i n g m o d e r n - d a y innovation and robotization. Born in Honduras, Garcia is a self-taught painter, muralist,anddesignerwhose creations explore the realm of abstract realism. Known for his large-scale murals and mixed media paintings, Garcia's work commands attention and dominates the spacesitinhabits.

His recent collaboration with one of the largest murals in the Cayman Islands at the Seven Mile Beach along with his involvement in community projects, demonstrates his commitment to using art as a p o w e r f u l m e a n s o f expression and community engagement. Garcia is part o f t h e g r o u p o f representative artists of the Cayman National Gallery that has permanent artwork displayedinthisgallery

Franklin

Delano

Pengel

Franklin Delano Pengel is a Surinamese born artist who works and lives in Germany Heemergeswitha mission to raise critical awareness through his politically and socially motivatedpaintings.

A visionary storyteller, his art serves as a powerful tool to explore history and societalpowerstructuresand questions the purpose of w e l l - e s t a b l i s h e d institutional systems such as educationandbanking.

With three entries for “Untamable Spirit of the Native Land”, his thoughtprovoking series invite viewers to question their beliefs and reconsider the structures that govern their lives, advocating for justice and freedom. Commanding attention is Pengel's highly politically charged painting titled “African Holocaust” that depicts a haunting synopsis of 400 years of slaveryhistory

GiovanniJona

Drawing from his

ucaner background, Giovanni Jona (Suriname), brings a distinctive cultural perspective to his work Celebrating his ancestral roots, his art captures the

dynamic expressions of the human figure. Jona started working on project basis with Natasha Knoppel Art Galleries and his larger paintings are exclusively exhibited by Natasha Knoppel Art Galleries in Rotterdam. Moreover, he was recently invited in 2023 to participate in the artist in r e s i d e n c e p r o g r a m

BijlmAIR in Amsterdam initiated by CBK Zuidoost wherehisworkisfeaturedin the group exhibition “Knightsin ShiningArmour “, on view until July 1st 2023.

Jona

Eight paintings by Jona, bursting with his unique visual vocabulary and characterized by explosive colors, his signature pattern of daring lines and forms, often deconstructed shapes

andvibrantenergy,invitethe viewer to embark on a journey that transcends culturalboundaries.

Ray Daal

Last but certainly not least, four paintings by Ray Daal (Suriname) are presented. Ray Daal's work is characterized by bold use ofcolour,withasurprisingly vividimaginationnotonlyin subject matter but also in form.

The painting titled “Global Warming” hints at our global climate urgency, while “The Belly dancer and her Drummer” draws the viewerintoaplayfulfantasy “Universe of the Night” depicts two lovers almost merged with intensity Daal captivatesaudienceswithhis art, which exuberates the ambiance and richness of Caribbean culture and is

inspired by abundantly present nature Daal's imaginative forms create an atmosphere that pulsates with energy Over his career spanning more than three decades, Daal has fearlessly explored various media, continuously pushing the boundaries of his artistic expression. In the 1980s, he was part of the art collective Waka Tjopu which aimed to contribute to the cultural identity and society of Suriname.

In 1996 / 1997, his work was exhibited at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam on occasion of the group exhibition “Twenty Years ofVisualArt inSuriname,1975-1985.”

“Untamable Spirit of the Native Land” speaks to the unique experiences and perspectives, the resilience,

c r e a t i v i t y , a n d interconnectedness of our featured artists and their respectivecultures.

Through their diverse perspectives and artistic skills, these visionary creators invite us to contemplate the complex layers of our world and engage with the innate qualities and challenges that shape our shared humanity. We invite art enthusiasts, collectors, and cultural e x p l o r e r s i n t o t h e captivating realms of contemporary art from the Caribbean, the Atlantic Islands, and its diaspora to e x p e r i e n c e t h e transformative power of art and to celebrate the intricate narratives, bold expressions, and profound visions that define this vibrant art territory

y of Queen Char e

Freedom Life Ministries’ annual life altering women’s conference returns after two years hiatus

...promises guaranteed next level experience

After a hiatus due to COVID- they need to be addressed because it…that’swhatthisconferenceisall 19,FreedomLifeMinistry’sannual the majority of any church about.” women’ Stronger than Their populationarewomen.”

THE IDEALOPPORTUNITY Struggles conference is back, “The theme of the seminar tells This annual conference poised to supersede the successes the aim, to empower women to provides the ideal opportunity for of previous years through the become stronger than their women to sit and honestly and release of next level impartation to struggles. The keys and answers to openly discuss these problems and theladiesofGuyana. all these issues are enshrined in the find solutions together through

Underthetheme,“FreshOilfor word of God and while this will be God’s help. No woman who wants a Fresh Encounter,” the sixth our basis, the facilitators of this an improvement in some aspect of edition of the conference will be seminar are all trained in their life should miss this event. held from Thursday June 6th to responding to women’s issues so a The event is structured to allow for Saturday June 8th at the Church’s realisticapproachwillbetaken. open interaction, with sessions Princes and Lyng Streets sanctuary SURPASSING ITS MANDATE where the panelists will field and promises to transform the lives Reflecting on the tremendous questionsfromparticipants ofallwhoattend success the conference has enjoyed As has been the practice in the

The impressive lineup of in the five years it has been held, past, the topics to be discussed this facilitators comprises of Dr. Pastor Delight expressed thanks to year were specially selected to Darlene Day, Apostle Melinda God that the event has not only address current prevalent issues in Wright, Apostle Dr Conya Herrin been fulfilling, but surpassing its society Ayodele, Minister Lisa Speller, mandate.

POWERFULDISCUSSIONS

Minister Mary Wooldridge and “Many women are not The three-day seminar will see esteemed panel of facilitators will be available and participants Minister Molly Lewis-Ogle of the conscious of their God-given powerful discussions on riveting fielding questions from can benefit from the services of a USA. potential and abilities. They are and ‘down-to-earth’ topics such as participants. healthbooth

The women’s conference will

“Women’s Health” Recognizing Thisyear,thecoordinatorshave The conference package for all kick off on Thursda efeating the Jezebel and pulled out all the stops in sourcing three days is only $1000 and 18:00hrs On Frid ne Spirits”, Kingdom facilitators who are not only sound registration can be done by visiting proceedings will continue Economics, Elements of Godly and proficient in the word of God, the church’s office between the 13:00hrs. On Saturday, ationships, Breaking butwhoaretrainedprofessionalsin hours of 8am-4:30 pm, or at the final date of the conference, strongholds, Harnessing the women’s issues. On a personal door on arrival For further the event will begin at gift in you and the Recipe to level, they can identify with the information, persons can call 22509:00hrs. Despite its forgiveness challenges women face, since they 1056,616-2141or679-8825 religious affiliation, the Freedom Life Ministries Inc. conference is open to all wasestablishedinFebruary2003at inneedofamiracle West Coast Berbice by Bishop and

Launched in 2014, Prophet Joel Uwagboe with the the conference has overarching aim of Raising up become a staple for Apostolic/Prophetic local women from all walks Churches, forming teams of of life who are seeking a overcoming believers who have Godly, safe non- reconciled to God through Jesus judgmental forum to share Christ and are filled with the Holy issues affecting them and Spirit’s power to carry out the find tangible worka ministry of reconciliation by solutions,guidance,healing bringing others into harmony with deliverance through

The format of the sessions will themselves have been through GOD. discussions, spiritual impartation comprise ‘general ministry’ where terrible struggles but, through the With a membership of and professional counselling participants will receive prophetic power of God’s grace, have thousands,thechurchhascurrently sessions. Theseminarhasaproven precious to God with many impartation, healing and emerged victorious and are living expanded to include eight local track record of being a catalyst for unlocked treasures inside them that deliverance as well as plenary abundantlives,fulfillingtheirGod- branches and two overseas-based sustained success in the lives of the God wants to bring to the fore. sessions which will see the given destinies. Daily counselling churches. thousands of women who have Unfortunately, along the way they encountered transformation after might have been hurt, abused, accessing the requisite tools to misused, trampled, oppressed, conquering the daily struggles in marginalized upon etc., and are theirlives. struggling with overcoming many

It is the view of visionary and issues they are facing on a daily founder of the initiative, First Lady basis.

PastorDelightOgle-Uwagboe,that “Many have searched for all women are unique treasures solutionsinanumberofplaces,but from God and have the power to haveonlyfoundtemporaryreliefor ‘unlock their potential for none at all. This annual conference greatness’ if they put their trust in has been effective, because it has God, know who they are in Christ, beengivingthemthepracticaltools invest in their personal needed to connect with God in a development, remove barriers and real way to get the real, permanent allowtheHolySpirittoguidethem. healing and deliverance they need

The coordinator highlighted to overcome these obstacles and that the conference was birthed out livesustainedvictoriouslives.” of the need that exists in the church “Indeed, women are stronger setting for “real discussions about than their struggles, because God issuesaffectingwomen.” has enshrined in them the ability

“In larger church settings, and power to be overcomes, but catering to the individual needs of theyhavetoknowwhatthekeysare everyone can be a challenge...the and use them to move from a place truth is that women have unique of defeat and despair to enjoying a challenges many of which cannot life of freedom, peace and be addressed from the pulpit but abundance as God ordained

Dr. Conye Ayodele Dr. Darlene Day

“You are a unique treasure, carefully and wonderfully made by your Creator and regardless of whatever you may be facing as a woman at this very moment in your life, God is able to turn it around “ - Pastor Delight Uwagboe

US VISA APPLICANTS MUST GUARD

THEMSELVES AGAINST SCAMMERS AND EXPLOITERS

GPAT DIAL Today, though Guyana scammers and the US cis.gov/forms/all-forms. If however, the applicant qualifying for a visa and has become an oil-rich Embassy has taken the time Persons are asked to use uses the help of a visa they have no “inside” uyana, between country with the promise of to issue a release exposing theseofficialsitesforcorrect consultant, he or she must connection with the the 1960s and approaching within four to their machinations. In this and up-to-date forms. The ensure that no false Embassy Your eligibility

1 9 9 0 s , w a s five years the social and article, we shall keep closely Embassy then gives further information is on their form, isdeterminedbyaconsular governedbyanauthoritarian economic amenities and to the text of the release for information and step by step since, in the words of the officer after a visa regimewhichturneditsback standards of the developed bothauthenticityandclarity instructions to help embassy, “False information interview Knowing on democracy, engineered a world, many Guyanese are The Release begins by applicants through the could disqualify you and someone at the Embassy precipitous economic still rushing to apply for US setting out the issue: “There various processes and such make you permanently will not help you to get a collapse, damaged the social visas. Somanypeoplearein has been an increase in third could be obtained from the ineligible for a visa. You are visa since an applicant’s fabric and to whose door this movement that there is party preparers or visa website: responsible for what is on qualifications as presented m u s t b e l a i d t h e even a new profession called service providers creating https://gy usembassy go your visa application form. in the visa application and uncontrollable crime wave ‘Visa Consultant’ to serve fake appointment letters and v / v i s a s / a n d For this reason, we attheinterviewandtheUS and widespread shortages of them These so-called charging exorbitant fees for h t t p s : / / a i s u s v i s a - encourage applicants to Law are the only bases on food, medicines and other c o n s u l t a n t s c h a rg e visa services people can i n f o c o m / e n - complete their application which consular officers necessities which enveloped enormous fees for filling up o t h e r w i s e d o b y gy/niv/users/sign_in forms themselves and pay makevisadecisions”. the country In desperation, visa application forms and themselves”.

Applicants are alerted the required visa processing This urgent effort by a large percentage of the almost invariably project The Embassy then goes that the visa application feesattheembassy people, especially young population fled this country, themselves as being able to on to advise that correct and process is simple but that “If someone else is people to enter the United going to any country they secure visas by falsely up-to-date forms could “visa application centres” helping you with your visa States is beginning to lessen could, with thousands claiming they have always be had free at: profit by making the visa application, ensure they give as it is gradually being finding themselves in the “contacts” in the US https://ceac.state. gov/ceac/ application process appear you the login details or realised that America is no UnitedStates. Embassy These persons are and https://www us- complicated. confirmationnumber”. longer “the Land of

“You must use your own Opportunity” or “the email address to create an American Dream”, as it was account to manage your visa in the 19th and 20th application and appointment centuries. And also most since the Consular Section countries of the developing often sends case status world are beginning to updates to the email you use provide their citizens with a to register Using someone betterlife.

else’s email may cause you In Guyana’s case, within to miss important updates four or five years, social and about your case and cause economic conditions would delays”. have advanced to such an

“Keep a copy of your extent that Guyanese people applicationandconfirmation would only visit the United and proof of direct payment States as tourists, to see their ofvisaprocessingfees”. relatives or friends settled

Finally, the Embassy there, and to return home as enjoins applicants: “Visa quickly as they can. Visa consultants cannot consultants would in due improve your chances of coursefadeaway

GNBS - PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS TO COMBAT PLASTIC POLLUTION

Plastic pollution is one of many years to combat plastic agency recognized by the with companies to implement the daily at the landfills and plastic and the most pressing pollution through varying Environmental Protection Agency international standard – ISO other materials that clog our drains

environmental issues campaigns and a ban on the use of (EPA). 14001:2015 Environmental and waterways which leads to globally, as rapidly increasing Styrofoam containers at fast food

The biodegradable standard is Management Systems – flooding. We can also prevent the production of disposable plastic outlets.Withthebanofpolystyrene just one of the many standards Requirements with guidance for release of toxic chemicals that are products overwhelms the world’s products, the Guyana National available which are crucial in use This standard is aimed at affiliatedwithvariousillnessesand abilitytodealwiththem.Theuseof Bureau of Standards (GNBS) in guiding human actions towards the helping entrepreneurs achieve a those that adversely affect the plasticcontainersdesignedforone- 2018 developed National Standard preservation of our global balance between the environment, environment. time usage has become the chosen for the ‘Labelling of biodegradable environment. society and the economy towards TheGuyanaNationalBureauof method of storing food and other containers ’ The compulsory

The GNBS has a total of thirty- sustainabledevelopment. Standards encourages all items for convenience in Guyana standard sought to ensure that all two (32) environmental standards It provides a framework to stakeholders to utilize national and and across the world. However, food containers being imported to help stakeholders improve their protect the environment and international standards which can they are not properly disposed of into the country meet the practices towards sustainable respond to changing conditions, help you or your organisation after use and become a major r e q u i r e m e n t s o f b e i n g development These standards while helping businesses to protect the environment for future pollutant on our land and aquatic biodegradable, recyclable, and include Requirements for safe use maintain compliance with generations Let’s join the environments. environmentallyfriendly and handling of refrigerants, environmentalregulations. c a m p a i g n t h i s y e a r t o

Tomorrow Monday, June 05, According to the document, all Methods of sampling and testing Training is also offered on the #BeatPlasticPollution and work to 2023,WorldEnvironmentDaywill biodegradable food containers for water and wastewater, ISO 14001 standard to help users combat other forms of pollution be observed under the theme manufactured, imported, sold or Environmental labels and better understand the requirements through the implementation of “Solutions for plastic pollution,” offered for sale shall be legibly declarations, Environmental ofthedocument. standards. focusing on combatting plastic labelled with its material Management and standards

As we commemorate World For further information, please pollution under the campaign composition, time to decompose, relating to Greenhouse gas Environment Day 2023, each of us contact the GNBS on telephone #BeatPlasticPollution. microwavable properties, and a emissions. can play our part in reducing the numbers: 219-0069, 219-0065, Guyana has been working for biodegradable certificate from an In addition, the Bureau works numberofplasticproductsdumped 219-0062.

The Circus School

(From on last Sunday edition) easy.” “You try it with great big floppy boots on…” Leon looked at her “And my clown name is Loopy, clowns have clown names, and their own special make-up!” Every day the friends practiced in their groups -– now they are starting to feel a bit nervous, their big circus day is at the end of theweek.

“Have you got your costumes?” Emma joins them. “We got our pink tutus and tights today, Mrs. Tortellini is cool, she does the costumes.” Leon has the most to do, the clowns always do, as he keeps telling them how important the clowns are. “Yes, Loopy, theworld'sgreatestclownhahaha.”Theyall laugh.Atlast,itisthedayoftheGrandCircus Show! Leon, or, Loopy, runs around with a bucket filled with confetti, but the head clown has a bucket filled with water, just to make the audience nervous! Leon handed out umbrellastomakethemmore nervous Even his mum doesn't know Leon under the big orange wig and baggy patchwork pants. Leon was now Loopy! The clowns then do bell ringing, noisy and out of tune, but then, they stop, shake their heads and play a proper tune. They also do their clown trampoline act –Crazy Bouncing in Big Boots!

Emma balances with outstretched arms on her pony Later, Emma slips out of her pink tutu and into her red circus T-Shirt to sell popcorn in the break, the people are happy “Lovelyshow,thosechildrenaresogood…” Noah first shows the audience to their seats wearingaredT-Shirtandtryingtobehelpful. Laterhechangesintohissparklingjacketand silverhatfortheunicycleshow,thenhestarts to feel nervous. Twisting, Turning and Weaving around – all on one wheel, not so easy. But the group manage well. The music helps and they even cycle up and down ramps.

Noah laughs as he remembers his first wobbles.Mia'sactisjuggling,allthejugglers wear bright baggy rainbow costumes and jugglewithballs,ringsanddoplatespinning. Attheend,theythrowuptherainbowscarves The bright colored scarves float down and everythingismagical.

“If you drop one, you just laugh, it's all part of the act…” Gino always tells them.

Later, the jugglers leave the ring – but, they quicklyslipoffthecostumes,theyhaveblack clothes underneath, then they slip on a black mask.

When they are all ready, they run back into the ring with all the lights switched off. Now they have hula hoops that shine orange, pink, green and yellow in the dark. Mia feels so good. “It's magical, it's ShowTime.” She smiles and twists her yellow hoop to join the patternoftheothers.

The friends can't believe it; their circus show is a huge success. But, now, sadly, it's the end of the show, they all troop out, back intothecircusring.Francoinhisredcoatand top hat tells them to take the biggest and lowestbow- andFranco'svoiceboomsloud. “Just one week, learning new things, these

Mermaid Magnets

– Glass Bead Magnets

S u p p l i e s : Scrapbook paper, M e r m a i d Ta i l Template, Pencil, Scissors, Mod podge/ glue, clear g l a s s b e a d s , magnets, Paint brush,Hotgluegun.

Step 1: Start by drawing a mermaid tail onto a piece of paper

We made sure the tail would be the perfect size to go withtheglassbeads.

Step 2: Cut out thetailwithscissors.

Step 3:Trace the mermaid tail onto the back of the scrapbook paper. You can reverse the mermaid tail on some of the paper so that the mermaid tails point in different directions. Once the tails are traced, cut them out with scissors.

childrenarerealstars!”

The clowns, the jugglers, the balancers, the cyclists, the tightrope walkers, the acrobatsanddancersalltakeabigbow Leon, Mia, Noah and Emma have had the very best Circus Week, and can't wait until Circus Tortellini is back in town again! “Next time, I'll be a clown, too.” Noah tells Leon. “You can wobble and fall off a unicycle…” They all laugh. “Who would have believed it?” Mia now in her normal clothes. “We had so much fun, but my bones are aching and bruised. But, I've got a brilliant idea.” They all looked at her “Let's meet in my garden with the trampoline and practice our very own circus. I can teach you juggling.” Mia laughs.

“And I can teach you about Big Boot Bouncing.” Loopy Leon laughs, too. “And wecancallitCircusPepperoni.”Noahjoined in. “Circus Pepperoni?” The others looked puzzled. “Yes, because I love hot pepperoni onmypizza!”

Step 4: Time to cut out circles of scrapbookpaperfortheglassbeads.

Tracetheglassbeadsontothepaperofthe scrapbook paper you are using and cut out the circleswithscissors.

Step 5: Apply Mod Podge with a paint brush onto the back of the glass beads. Place thecirclescrapbookpaperoveritimmediately and press. It takes a few seconds to really stick,sopressandwaitalittle.

Step 6: Once the Mod Podge on the glass beadshasdried,applyModPodgeontothetop portionofthemermaidtails,andattachitonto the back of the glass beads. Allow it to dry beforeproceedingtothenextstep.

Step 7: Now time to transform it into a magnet! To attach the magnet onto the glass bead,applyhotglueontothebackoftheglass beads, and place a magnet over the hot glue.Note: It takes a few hours for the Mod Podge to completely dry between the paper and the glass beads. Once it's completely dry, you'll be able to see the paper through the glass.

Walk in the light when it is dark, You should not go out alone; Do not idle around strange places, And never move far from home.

Always obey traffic signs and rules, Keep to the sidewalk on your way, Only cross a street when it is safe, And look and listen all the way

When we are away from those we trust, Whether in the park or street, We should always try to ensure We are as safe as can be.

Continue with the effort to enhance your Self Esteem by developing a Sense of Identity

Ap r o p e r knowledge of self is the key to the development of a sense of identity This selfknowledge implies a clear and realistic idea of what we are, including awareness of one's strengths, one's shortcomings and how one appearstoothers.

Formationofthisclear sense of identity is based on the ability to separate yourself from the influence of others – your parents, peers, what you see on the television and read in the press – and make up your mind as to who you really are, what are your goals in life, and what you will make of yourself as you plan honestly and successfully to achievethesegoals.

These are the steps you should purposefully take in the effort to form your identity:-

1. Accept your physical appearance for what it is. You should realize that you had no control over the way you look and not even your parents, whose features you partly bear, had that control. Begin to take a purposeful attitude about acceptance of how you look, and feel good aboutit.

Always remember that you area uniqueperson, and this combination of your features, your size, your height, your figure, your complexion, etc. is unique, andwillneverbeduplicated, no matter how many other people are born in this world. Stop the habit of

UNCLEROY Tellitto

Hello,readers, UncleRoyisagainaskingallofyoutotryinsomeway tomakeacontributiontothispage,andthustothewelfareof you and your fellow readers.This contribution can take any formthatyoufeelwouldbevaluable–anaccountofwhatis 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 liketomaketoyourfellowGuyanese.

Please remit same to my email –roypaul2002@yahoo com, and be assured that your worthwhilecontributionwillhaveaprominentplaceonour page.

Fillinsomeof the dotted l i n e segments to form a meandering path that forms a single loop. Thepathdoesnotcross itself. branch. or touch itself at corners. The numbers indicate how many line segments surroundeachcell.

Emptycellsmaybe surrounded by any number of line segments.

Thereisoneunique solution, and you shouldbeabletofindit without guessing. You may find it helpful to mark segments that cannotbetilledin

These tiles are n a m e d f o r crystalographer Fritz Laves

Special thanks to Craig Kaplan for suggestingtheiruse

Need some solving h e l p ?

comparing yourself with other people who may seem asperfect.

You are someone without comparison, and thatisyourownidentity

Think of these questions and try to answer them in an honest and searchingway:-

(i) What are the forces

thatactagainstyourforming yourownidentity?

(ii) What would you advise a friend who is alwaysdepressedabouthow he/shelooks?

Take the next week to deal with these questions, and we will continue with the second of these steps in thenextissue.

by Carmen Mashier

We make our own world, whoever we are, Our happiness is of our own making; We make our own world, wherever we are, Our happiness is there for the taking.

Our world goes with us as we walk and talk each day, Our world can be a heaven or hell, our attitude will say, We make our own world, whatever we are, Let's make our own world, wherever we are.

Keep thinking happy, and we'll make a new world, Happiness in a choice that we can at any time make; When we feel grateful for all we have and can do, Then we will always be happy, whether asleep or awake.

We make our own world

Making a determined to develop a Sense of Identity and you will feel more proud of who you are.

BeautyHacksYouNeedtoTry

1.Hangingyourheadupsidedown

This is a strange one, I know But, if you hang your head upside down regularly for about a minute at time, you can increasebloodflowandcirculationtoyourface,addingcolorand glow to your complexion. Whether you are hanging off the side ofyourbedorpoppingintoadownwarddogpose,thisisasimple yeteffectiveexercisethatwillinduceanimmediatechange.

2.Coldspooncompresses

Many think of this trick as an old wives' tale, but it definitely still proves effective! Chill two metal spoons in the refrigerator overnight. Then, use them to de-puff and de-bloat your eyes in the morning. I suggest first applying a serum or a lightweight oil aroundtheeyeareaandthenglidingthespoonstowardstheouter cornersofyoureyeareausinggentle,firmpressure.

3.Coldshowers

Okay,okay,thisonemightnotbesuchasecret,butIstillthink it's massively underrated. Cold showers can instantly rejuvenate and wake you up, making you feel (and look!) lively and energized. If you're too dedicated to hot showers to give a full cold shower a go, try turning the nozzle to cold for just the last minute of your morning routine. This will improve circulation, build your immune systems, increase endorphins, and speed up cellrecovery

4.Dryskinbrushing

Dry brushing my skin is one of my favorite techniques for achieving a full-body glow and helping speed dermal detox. It's soeasytodoanditdoesn'tneedtobeharshtobeeffective.Forthe best result, gently brush skin in upward strokes and circular motions to exfoliate and sweep up dead skin cells.This will help increase blood circulation and promote lymphatic drainage making you feel less puffy and give an overall radiant glow For anaddedboost,Isuggestlightlylatheringyourskinwithagentle oil like coconut oil and then dry brushing your body before a morning shower, as this technique is known to energize your system.

5.Bluelightblockingglasses

Blue light blocking glasses block out the artificial light from computer screens, phones, tablets, or television. Keeping that blue light at bay helps balance out your circadian rhythm, lower cortisol, and protect your eyes— keeping them youthful and bright.

6.Antipollutiondrops

City-living can expose us to toxins and environmental stressors and leave us with fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Sayhellotoantipollutionserumsanddrops!

Adding these drops directly to your face or mixing them in with moisturizer helps you achieve a brighter, healthier-looking skin tone. The vitamins and antioxidants found in the drops can help decrease the damage of pollution, protect your skin against freeradicals,andstrengthenyourskin'sbarrier

7.Keepingphonesandbedtimeseparate

When we are on our phones, our brains are engaged and awake.That'swhyifwewanttogetafullyrestfulanddeepperiod of sleep, it's vital to keep the mental stimulation and bright light ofourphonescreenaway

8.Oiling,notcutting,yourcuticles

Insteadofcuttingyourcuticles,pushthembackwithnailoil! We need our cuticles because they protect our nail beds. When you remove or cut the cuticles, the nail is not protected by that layer of skin and can lead to a field day for bacteria to fester Using an oil around your nails will also keep your cuticles fresh, healthy,andhydrated.

9.Eyecreamonandaroundyourlips

The skin around our eyes is delicate and thin, which is why creams for this area are specially formulated to gently supercharge this area with nutrients without the irritants often foundincreamsaimedatotherpartsofourbody

10.Beautyfridges

If you're tight on space or budget, your regular fridge will do in a pinch, but for those with a serious devotion to skincare, a beauty fridge can make all the difference. These specialized appliances are small and chic and, best of all, they allow you to store your beauty products far away from the almond milk and the lasagna leftovers. Keeping items like eye patches, jade rollers, and eye creams in a beauty fridge will allow them to act like cold compresses, helping boost the effectiveness of your products.

(Continued on next Sunday edition)

https://www.iherb.com/blog/beauty-news/beauty-hacks/1173?gclid= CjwKCAjwyeujBhA5EiwA5WD7_VhTJwQEjJtJyH8fkmw1X4nfV Zw3mr9eeCAnKsIrK6Gwozpf_NneNBoC4uMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

LocalmaritimeschoolpartneringwithInt’lmaritime agencytoofferscholarshipstotwenty-fiveGuyanese

byPresidentAli’sremarksat the ACMF 2022 Anchor Awards gala in Florida, when he stressed the critical

importance of maritime training and education of locals to the oil/gas sector.” She continued, “We are

committed to partnering withstakeholderstoprovide opportunity to as many Guyaneseaswecan.”

onpage54

Twenty-five Guyanese will have the opportunity to pursue studies and training in the maritime sector through the provision of fully-funded scholarships beingofferedbytheFloridabased American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF).

According to a release from the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF), announced this past week thatitwillbepartneringwith Guyana’s premier maritime trainingschool–theAtlantic Alliance Maritime and Offshore Training Institute (AAMOTI) – to provide scholarships to locals from all ten administrative regions.

F i f t e e n o f t h e scholarshipswillbeawarded to residents of Linden, Region 10, while the remaining10willbeoffered to residents from the other nineregions.

Upon successful completion,thestudentswill receivecertificationinBasic Safety Training (BST) and Ship Security Awareness (SSA).

The move is intended to improve and strengthen capacity building and development in Guyana’s rapidly expanding maritime andoffshoreindustry ACMF was launched in 2016 with the goal of producing a cadre of seafarers and maritime professionals from

CARICOM, to take up officer, engineering, navigational and other positionsinthesector

To date, the Foundation has expended more than U S $ 1 m i l l i o n i n scholarships, grants, and equipment, to 160 students from Guyana, Jamaica, Bahamas,Grenada,Trinidad andTobago, St.Vincent and the Grenadines, and DominicanRepublic.

The Foundation is supported by an ‘A’ list of cruise and cargo companies, including Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, MNS Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Seaboard, Tropical Shipping, Crowley, Shell, Crowley,amongothers.

ACMF President, Dr Geneive Brown Metzger, said, “ACMF was inspired

Meanwhile, AAMOTI’s Director, Ms Miranda Thakur-Deensaidthatthe Continued

AAMOTI’s Director in Guyana, Miranda Thakur-Deen

PresidentAli and Dr. Metzger at the AnchorAwards Gala in Florida last year

By Renay Sambach

A post to F a c e b o o k displaying a batch ofdonutsshemade for her family led to a business venture by 28year-old Farah Naz Ibrahim

Azeez During the COVID-19 pandemic, on August 26, 2020, Farah launched her food business, Farah’s HomestyleCookingandBaking.

During an interview with The Waterfalls, she shared that her love for cooking dates back to her childhood, being in the kitchen observing her father cookingforthefamily

“Ialwaysenjoyedbeinginthekitchen as a child. It started off with my dad, the lateZ-man,alwayshavingmebesidehim when cooking for the family He taught methebasics,untilitwastimeformeto cookdinnereverydayafterschoolwhen myparentswereatwork.”

Farah explained that her dad was a “savage critic” and this pushed her to do her best to ensure the quality, taste and presentationofherculinarytreatswasof good standard and quality, to avoid criticism.Gettingacomplimentfromher father was the best feeling ever, she said, adding, “I wish he was alive today to see my progress, but I know

he’s watching and guiding me throughoutthisjourney.”

During the pandemic, after making a post on Facebook with the batchofdonutsthatshemade,Farahsaid, “Persons reached out to me wanting to purchase or finding out how they can order;Ihonestlydidnotimaginethatthe donutswould’vebeensuchahit,butfrom thatday,Farah’sHomestyleCookingand Bakingwasbirthed.”

ThebusinessventureisonethatFarah shares with her husband, Mohammad Azeez.

Herlong-termgoalforherbusinessis to expand into a commercial bakery and café, and to be able to provide quality service, cakes, finger foods, meals and goodiesatanaffordablecost.

“We stand out mainly because we providecustomerswithavarietyofmini finger foods, pastries, meals, desserts, cakes (customized, wedding, simple and novelty), sweetmeats, etc. So customers cangeteverythingtocaterfortheirguests atanyeventbyjustcontactingus,”Farah added.

Her business is mostly known for cakes, mini finger food and 7-curry Farah’s business is located in Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, with deliverybeingavailable.Sheevenhadto quit her full-time job to focus solely on herbusiness.Farah’sHomestyleCooking and Baking is a Home-based online business that operates mainly through whatIpostonsocialmedia.

“Wewerehonouredtobeapartofthe Cricket Festival, Sonia Noel’s Expo 50 for 50 young entrepreneurs, Easter Fest, Mommy’sCornerWomenEmpowerment

and Lady Nisa’s Bridgerton Themed Party.”

While there is no set working days andhours,thebusinesswomanexplained, “Trulyweloveandenjoywhatwedoand customer satisfaction is our priority, we are flexible with timings, days and prices.”

Farah described herself as a selftaught baker and cake decorator She enjoys being productive, learning new cake trends, spending quality time with her family, going on long drives and outdooractivities.

“Since I started my business, I have learnt that you don’t need a lot just use what you have at hand and eventually everything else will fall into place. You havetohavetherightsupportsystemand besurroundedbypositivepeople,”Farah said.

She expressed her gratitude to her husband, mom, aunts, other family members,friendsandhercustomers.

She shared, “I have never dreamt of beingacakedecorator,becauseIcouldn’t evenbakeaboxcakeproperlyletalonea cakefromscratch.Iliterallystartedwith noexperience,withjustapassionandthe love for doing it. I was just a scared kitchen assistant that was given the opportunitytomanageanentirebakeryat Foodmaxx. I was told you never know youcandosomethinguntilyoutry AndI tried and ended up loving it, I was so impressed and proud of myself that I became my own inspiration. So I have learnt that your talent is within you just waitingtobeunleashedifyoubelievein yourself.”

The businesswoman explained that

t h e journey so far h a s b e e n overwhelmingly exceptional. She shared that her clientele has grown rapidly throughout these few years.

“Continue being a good person no matter what the circumstance, because one day you will be rewarded. My customerlistconsistsmainlyofpersonsI have met from nursery up until my last interaction at Ms. Nisa’s Bridgerton Themed party So, I believe that the relationship between the persons you meet along your life is essential in your growth,” Farah shared.

To support

F a r a h ’ s business, you can contact her on+(592)6176340,Facebook @ F a r a h ’ s Homestyle Cooking and Baking or IG @farah home stlye_cooking_ baking.

Trevlind Harry

TrevlindHarryisanambitious 24-year-oldbornandraisedontheWestCoastof Demerara,Anursebyprofession,Trevlindisverypassionateabout modeling,exploringnewopportunities,goingonadventures.Thisweek’s beautyisacontestantinthe2023MissJamzonepageant.Sheisusingherbeauty withapurposeplatformtitled“WelcometoMotherhood”tohelpyoungmothersgettheir livesonapathofprogress. Herfavouritequoteis“Behumbleandneverthinkyouarebetter thananyoneelse.Fromdustyoucameanduntodustyoushallreturn.”— Anonymous

InterestingCreatures...

Betta the Siamese fighting fish

ByShervinBelgrave

Reportedly endemic to Thailand and also native to other south Asian countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia, is the Siamese fighting fish, commonly known as Betta. This is today’s interesting creature, in all its flamboyance and

grandeur

One writer, Jason Bittel, in a National Geographic article wrote, “A twirling dancer, a bird in flight?

Through a photographer’s lens, this popular pet, also known as the Siamese fighting fish, becomes a fantasyinfins”.

Itsbeauty,brightcolours, long flowing fins that resemble angel wings and ornamental features along with its unique personality has made the fish one of the most sought after pets in the aquariumindustry

Infact,thissmallbutyet unique freshwater fish that measures about eight centimetres when fully grown has been in the aquarium industry for more than150years.

Researchhowevershows that bettas have been living in captivity for much longer than that. Some researchers say it has been around for at least 1000 years but not as pets.Likethenamesuggests, Siamese fighting fish are aggressive in nature and were initially bred and domesticated for gambling matches similar to those of cockfighting.

The Betta’s aggressive nature comes from being territorial. Both male and femaleBettaswouldfightoff other bettas if they invade their space People of MalaysiaandThailandasfar back as the 17th century observed its aggressive nature and decided to arrange fight matches

between the fishes so that theycouldgamble.

Inthewild,Bettaswould spar for only a few minutes before one retreats. But in smallertankswithnoescape, fightscouldendindeath.

However, during the early days, gamblers did not know this, so they would breed the Bettas, especially the plakat Bettas for heightened aggression so that the fish can fight for longerperiods.

W i n n e r s w e r e determined on the Betta’s willingness to continue, the first fish to retreat was the loser Thefishfightsbecame so popular that it caught the attention of the Thailandese King at the time. He kept some of his women for fighting and regulated the matches so that he could tax them.

Gainingtheattention,the king actually worked in favour of the Bettas. He introduced them to a European doctor who was takenabackbyitsbeautyand uniqueness.

Thedoctorsstudiedthem andhisreportsaboutthefish marked the beginning of the Bettas’ entrance into the aquariumindustryduringthe early19thcentury

It is unclear if Betta fish fights still take place, but today despite its aggressive nature, they are being bred for its decorative and ornamentalfeatures.

It is still not safe to rear twoBettasinthesametank

Continuedonpage62

Local maritime school partnering with...

Frompage51 institutewasdelightedtopartnerwithACMFonthisinitiative since it signals the Foundation’s commitment to capacity building for locals and its interest in the development of Guyana’smaritimesector

Just recently, AAMOTI provided more than twenty scholarships to attendees of its information sessions earlier this year in Regions Two, Six and Ten. The school is also partnering with the Office of the First Lady to provide 100 scholarships to women from Indigenous villages across the country

InNovemberoflastyear,PresidentDr IrfaanAliattended ACMFAnchorAwardsGalaatFortLauderdaleYachtClubin Floridaastheguestofhonour,andoutlinedhisgovernment’s ambitiousplansforGuyana’smaritimesector Atthatevent, hemetwithDr Metzgerandthetwohadfruitfuldiscussions.

Betta the flamboyant Siamese fighting fish

ByAllyiahAllicock

Growing up, Falisha

Mohamed was always the artistic one in her family Thesewereskillsshenever allowed to fade or diminish. And now, she is the proud owner of her own arts and craft business, which waslaunchedinMay2018.

In a recent exclusive interview withthismagazine,Mohamedsaid what led her to start this venture was not only wanting to showcase hercreativeskillstothepublic,but to also show her daughters that a woman’s place is not only in the kitchen, but that women are capable of doing other things that areremarkableandexceptional.

“Growing up, I always wanted tobeindependentandnowthatI’m amother,Iwantmygirlstoseethat a woman’s place isn’t just in the kitchen.Awoman can do it all, be mother, a wife and still run a business,”sheexplained.

Mohamed said through her work, her craft is one way she expresses herself “I enjoy expressing my creativity which gives me a feeling of achievement whichelevatesmyself-esteemand I’m proud to exhibit these crafts,” sheadded.

Having developed her creative skillsovertheyears,sherelatedthat her business offers a variety of different craft items such as paper flowers, selfie frames, handmade

party bags, piñatas, personalize cards, scrunchies, bows, Canvas frame, personalized gift boxes just tonameafew

Theyoungbusinesswomansaid although her customer base remainssmall,sheismostgrateful; and with the support from her friends and family, it has been a blessing.

Having started this venture backin2018,Mohamedsharedthat one of the main challenges she encountered was sourcing materials. “I would usually take one day to find all my materials because they aren’t found in one place. To avoid all the hassle, I would purchase my materials monthsbeforeformymonthlycraft ideas,”shementioned.

Though this has been a challenge,itneverreallyprevented herfromfulfillingherorders.

As it relates to the pandemic which struck the country back in 2020, Mohamed revealed that during that period it almost made her quit her craft because it was difficult to get out to purchase materials and a lot of people were doing their own craft from home and that her craft was mainly for partysuppliesatthetime.

One of the things she said that helpedherthroughthatroughphase washerhusband.Accordingtoher, hehasbeenherbiggestsupportand

has always encouraged her even whenshewantedtogiveup.

Now with the pandemic being under control, her business has beenthrivinginitsownway

The mother of two said to this magazinethatmovingforwardone ofherlong-termgoalsistoexpand into a full-time craft store. This way,personswouldbeabletoshop inamorespaciousenvironment.

With a lot yet to come for this small business in the future, our featuredentrepreneurisoftheview that young entrepreneurs add new value to our economy “Young Entrepreneurs help to create new valueintheeconomyandtheyalso play a big part in the development oftechnology,”shesaid.

When asked what she thinks can be done locally to boost small businesses,shementionedthatfree advertising can assist, with the authorities directing more support tothesebusinesses.

She added too that the hosting ofmoresmallbusinessesexposcan helpboosttheminabigway

For persons interested in reaching out to Mohamed’s business,youcancheckherouton Facebook at Fun Craft Creation by Falisha, on Instagram at fun craft creation by falisha or contact her via WhatsApp on telephone number (+592) 6429463.

“Young Entrepreneurs help to create new value in the economy and they also play a big part in the development of technology”

Entrepreneur, Falisha Mohamed

Some

of the creative pieces Falisha Mohamed has crafted over the years.

Hat-wig exclusive revolutionizing cosmetology for busy women in Linden

By Vanessa Braithwaite - Moore

Women don't need bad hair days. What they need is to present themselvesinamannerthatexudes, style and confidence, irrespective of their busy schedules and 'superwoman'tasksinthehomeand at work. Such a presentation can be carefully created at a very affordable cost and with little time invested Fortunately, Linden cosmetologist Kashana Bacchus providesjusttheserviceforwomen to always meet beauty standards with her creation of 'hat wigs'. Bacchus, who is a teacher by profession and a cosmetologist on the side, was prompted to venture into this niche after analyzing her ownlifeasamotherofthree,awife, a full-time career woman and a businesswoman.

Hersleekcreationof'hatwigs', is an illusion that you actually have a full head of braids or a newly installed wig under a stylish bucket hatoranyothertrendinghatofyour choice.

'HatWigExclusive'wasbirthed

inApril 2021 during the pandemic, when salons were basically on lock down or operated with very little clientele.Women were not allowed to sit for hours to get their braids

done in an enclosed environment for fear of contracting the coronavirus.

Bacchus decided to bring ingenuity into play so that women canstillventureintopubliclooking descent “I was inspired by someone out of Guyana and I thought it would have been interesting to see how it will take offinLinden...Ithoughtitwouldbe really helpful for women, because sometimes we want to go out or we have somewhere to be but our hair isn't combed properly, so the 'hat wig' is something we can pull on and still look classy,” she explained.

This venture was also birthed out of her search for a means of complementing her income with theriseinthecostofliving.

Given that the cosmetology market in Linden was competitive, she knew she had to enter the market with a niche, in order to standout.

'Ichosehatwigsandnotregular wigs because everybody is doing wigs, and I haven't seen it really in Guyana, so I wanted to bring something new and unique that

Construction of $82M police station at Mocha 40% completed

The construction of an $82M police station at Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara (EBD) is at 40 per centcompleted.

Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of HomeAffairs, Mae Toussaint Jr Thomas on Wednesday, as part of an ongoing capital project inspection exercise, visited the construction site for the police station and also the ongoing construction of the Guyana Police Force's Information Technology (IT)TrainingComplex.

During the visit, the PS was briefed that the $82M Mocha Police Station is currently at 40 percent completion, with the ground floor columns and walls completed.Allstaircaseshavebeen cast, and the contractor is currently waiting to cast the first-floor columns, beams, and slabs, the Ministryinastatementreported.

As for the IT Training

Complex, it was noted that information technology is an integral part of the Guyana Police Force'smodernizationandstrategic development.

During the inspection of the ongoing works at the $100M Complex, which is currently being constructed in the Grove Police Station Compound, it was noted thattheprojectisonschedule.

This project is one of four training facilities that are being constructedacrossthecountry

At approximately 40% completion, this centre will not onlybeopentothepoliceranksbut will also serve members of the public by providing basic ICT training and computer engineering courses, the Ministry of Home Affairsshared.

would help women with a busy schedule.

“I always liked beauty and cosmetology, I have a certificate in cosmetology and I was looking for something to do along that field, so I tried the hat wigs and so far, I enjoydoingit,”sheexplained.

The process entails purchasing the hats and weave; sometimes she journeystoGeorgetowntogetthem

at a more affordable cost, then she sews the hair on the hat before braidingthem.

Onafreedaymakingoneofthe wigs normally takes hours, howeverwhensheistaxedwithher other responsibilities, it takes a few days.

Bacchussaidwhileherbusiness is evolving slowing, she sees it thriving into something big in the next five years, where she can acquire a show room for the wigs and also sell other cosmetology products.

“I'm not giving up on it because I see it going somewhere; I think it is unique and I can even teach my daughter the skill,” she said Bacchus is encouraging other working women, if the time will allow them to also consider options for a second income. “One income is never okay especially when you have kids like me, so side jobs can bepursued,especiallyinsomething youhaveapassionfor Persons interested can contact Keshana Bacchus on 671-6271. The prices for the wigs vary depending on the customer's demand.

DPI - The Government of Guyana will by the end of this month establish 20 telemedicine sites in hinterland communities, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony said on Friday during the launch of the National Expansion of the HEARTS InitiativefortheManagementof Cardiovascular Diseases held at thePegasusHotel,Kingston.

“We have just established four sites in Region One, just over the last two days, we have put in three sites in Region Eight,” the health minister disclosed.

This, he said, is in keeping with the administration's commitment to improving access to primary healthcare for residents living in remote hinterland communities. The electronic system will allow doctors in the capital city to easily contact community health workers (CHWs) in rural communities.

Minister Anthony also revealed that in the new week, four additional telemedicine sites will be established in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni.)

The sites will be equipped with technological devices that include a digital stethoscope, pulse oximeter, infrared thermometer, blood pressure monitor, mobile ultrasound, examcamerasandothers.

Minister of Health, Dr.

Frank Anthony

“We're building out this telehealth infrastructureandwhatthatwillallow us to do, that with the help of the Community Health Worker in a very remote community, we would be able to monitor our patients in a more effectiveway,”Dr Anthonystated.

The first four telemedicine sites were established in Gunns Village, Nappi,YupukariandParikawarinauin 2022.

To further expand the programme, the government allocated $1.8 billion in budget 2023 to implement the telemedicine system in Region One (Barima – Waini), Region Seven (Cuyuni – Mazaruni), Region Eight (Potaro – Siparuni) and Region Nine (UpperTakutu–UpperEssequibo).

Meanwhile, the health ministry has developed an electronic health record and legislation which will protect patients' privacy and confidentiality

Kashana Bacchus

The Guyana Police Force Information Technology Training Complex being constructed. (Photo courtesy of Ministry of Home Affairs)

The ongoing works for the Mocha

20 telemedicine sites to be established in hinterland communities this month

ENet appoints new Heads as it continues major expansion in 5G and Digital Transformation

- Robert Hiscock to serve as Head of 5G Mobile Networks

ENet — Guyana's 100% l o c a l l y o w n e d t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s company and the country's newest mobile telecoms provider— has announced theappointmentofnewheads of networks as part of its

major expansion in 5G and digitaltransformation.

These new appointments are Natasha Choo-A-Fat, Head of Wireless Networks; Ved Bowan, Head of Digital Transformation; Devon London, Head of Business; and Robert Hiscock, Head of 5GMobileNetworks.

Natasha Choo-A-Fat, new Head of Wireless Networks, has been with ENet for over 15 years, as part of its founding team and working her way through the ranks to gain invaluable,

hands-on expertise in a variety of areas Her consistency, drive, and organisational excellence have equipped her to manage the logistics of deploying the company's expansive wireless network, which spansthecoast.

Robert Hiscock, who has managed and built several prominent international brandsinGuyana,joinsENet as the Head of its new 5G mobile network, which is set to revolutionise the way Guyana uses mobile data services. In this role, he is expected to play a critical role in ensuring the success of the company's 5G services in the market by focusing on growth and customer experience expectations

Hiscock commented, “I am excited to use my significant experience in large and small-scale event and project management to contribute to the ENet's continued success.”

Ved Bowan, who has over 15 years of experience i n G u y a n a ' s telecommunications sector, has been named the new H e a d o f D i g i t a l Transformation Bowman will be using his knowledge and expertise in IT, Marketing, Sales, Training, and Customer Experience to drive the company's digital transformation strategy, leveraging the latest technologies to enhance the customer experience and improve operational efficiency As part of ENet

for more than 5 years, Bowman has played a strategicroleindeployingthe company's4Gfixednetwork.

Devon London, Head of Business, comes with over nine years of experience in customer experience and

business sales within the telecommunications sector Withatrackrecordofhigh(Continued on page 61)

Man who dropped dead on Sherriff Street identified

T

he man who dropped dead on

Sheriff Street last Wednesday, has been identified as Ramash Raganandan of Diamond Housing Scheme, EastBankDemerara(EBD).

Ragnandan, according to relatives, was ill and admitted to a city hospital where they last saw him alive. It is unclear if or when he was

discharged from the hospital but relatives did not hear from him again. They subsequently receivednewsthathewasdead.

According to reports Ragnandan collapsed and died at the corner of Sheriff Street and Campbell Avenue, Georgetown. Residentswhosawwhenhecollapsedbelieve thathemighthavesufferedaheartattack.

Ragnandan's body on Sherriff Street

From left: Ved Bowan, Robert Hiscock, Natasha Choo-A-Fat, and Devon London

From page 16 for oil spills, Datadin said there are made it clear that it would not turn highway will compliment other other clauses in the permit which itsbackeasilyonGuyana,giventhe ongoing projects they have within prove this to be an unrealistic vastresourcesdiscoveredoffshore. the region. For example, he noted demand. He noted that clause 14 of President of ExxonMobil they have activities such as the the permit does say the permit Guyana, Alistair Routledge was at preparation works in clearing of holder is responsible for all costs the time responding to a question lands for new housing areas. With associated with a spill, in keeping from Kaieteur News when he made thatbeingsaid,Croaldisclosedthat withthepolluterpaysprinciple. that point. Now that the company in two years, they have allocated in Datadin said however that the has essentially said there is room RegionThreeover3200houselots, parameters of those costs are for changes to the deal for Guyana and also the region saw the outlined by Condition 14.3 of the to get more, the government is still construction of core homes at permit which states, “The forms of notpreparedtogoafterbetterterms ParfaiteHarmonie. financial assurance shall be guided for its people Vice President

The design of the planned four- by an estimate of the sum of the Bharrat Jagdeo during his weekly lane highway is to reduce traffic reasonablycrediblecosts,expenses press conference yesterday said congestion along the West Bank and liabilities that may arise from that asking for a renegotiation at andWestCoastDemeraracorridor any breaches of this permit this point would affect the pace Liabilitiesareconsideredtoinclude government has worked to build to Thursday – June 1, 2023 costs associated with responding to extracttheresources. an incident, clean-up and He explained: “my concern has

As Govt. accepts remediationandmonitoring.” been about the killing of the should take the steps necessary to beforeJune7,2023.

US$2B parent guarantee…

The clause further notes that, momentum and this is where we provide additional disclosure

Majority of Exxon “the estimation is not expected to h a v e a f u n d a m e n t a l regarding these risks so that the EPAserved Exxon with notice

Shareholders unconcerned address unidentifiable or disagreement...two things we have shareholders are able to properly for unlimited parent guarantee about oil spills in Guyana inestimable costs which may be explained already, net zero is evaluatepotentialimpactsuchrisks since May 9-Attorneyassociated with compensation for already upon us...we have the big may have on the shareholder value. at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin

The majority of ExxonMobil loss and ongoing damage to other countries, particularly those who The shareholder also argued that Corporation’s shareholders partieswhichareabletobepursued are producing oil, they don’t want environment-related litigation Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev yesterday voted against two through civil action.” Datadin said, new entrances in the market poses an increasing risk to oil and Datadin told the Appellate Court motions that called for a better “To say unlimited guarantee makes because they have (to) preserve gas investments. As an example, yesterday that the Environmental understanding of oil spill risks and a mockery of the clear words…” theirmonopoly.” she said BP paid more than Protection Agency (EPA) has related litigation from the Stabroek

After hearing the arguments At the same time, the VP said US$60bn in criminal and civil issued an order to ExxonMobil Block operations. According to a presented by Datadin and other there is a climate group insisting penalties and remediation costs Guyana requiring the provision of Reuters report, shareholders lawyers representing EEPGL, and that Guyana does not touch the following the Macondo blowout, an unlimited parent and/or affiliate overwhelmingly rejected the two respondents, Godfrey Whyte and resources discovered offshore. To while Shell, another oil major, has company guarantee for oil spills in proposals brought by separate Frederick Collins, Justice Persaud thisend,hesaid,“Astheyearspass been ordered by a Dutch court to theStabroekBlock. groups. said his decision on the application by, it’s getting even harder to do reduceitscarbonemissionsby45% Datadin confirmed with The first shareholder proposal for a stay would be issued before so.” Jagdeo explained that the by2030. Kaieteur News that the order was was filed by Mercy Investment June7,2023. President Joe Biden administration

In addition, she said, “We have issued on May 9, 2023 as expressly Services Inc. The group sought to justpassedanewlawthatwillplace observed a recent trend of courts stated by the order issued in the understand the impacts of a worst- green technology developed in cancelling energy production ruling by Justice Sandil Kissoon. case oil spill scenario on Guyana other parts of the world at a permits (e.g. in Australia, South The order states that the EPA must and 12 other Caribbean territories disadvantage. He said as part of the Africa, Brazil), which poses a issueanenforcementnoticetoEsso that could be affected from an act to raise the debt ceiling in the particular risk for investments in Exploration and Production unmitigated oil spill at the Liza country, the United States is now n e w p r o d u c t i o n T h e s e Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to PhaseOneProject. going to allow oil and gas cancellations allegedly result from provide the “unlimited liability

The second proposal was filed exploration in a part of the state n o n - c o m p l i a n c e w i t h parent company guarantee and or by Anna Marie Lyles of Lot 253 theyhadinitiallyprevented. environmental laws and the unlimited liability affiliate Jefferson Road, Princeton, New Jagdeo said: “we have to look incompatibility of new production company guarantee to indemnify Jersey 08540, the beneficial owner out for our own here in this withclimategoals.” and keep indemnified the of 60 shares for at least three years. country...they don’t realise that the

Theshareholdersaiditisagreed Government of Guyana and the Her proposal sought the support of peoplewhoexplorefortheoilnow, by many Exxon investors that agency against all such shareholders to request an actuarial early enough and actually start the courts may now use as a point of environmental obligations of Esso assessment, omitting confidential production there is a tiny window.” reference the International Energy and its Co-venturers within the information and prepared at a In further making his point, the Agency’s assessment in its 2021 Stabroek Block together with reasonable cost, of the potential former President noted that report Net Zero by 2050 that no environmental liability insurance cumulative risk to Exxon Mobil Suriname and the other countries new oil, gas, or thermal coal from an insurance company with Corporation from current are having a hard time to move to a projects can be approved by standing and repute that equates to environment-related litigation stage where there is a commitment relevant licensing authorities in Grade A Plus”, failing which the against the company and its invest. order to meet Paris Agreement Liza Phase One permit would be affiliates.Herproposalfollowedon In fact, he noted that Guyana is emissions goals. She said, “These suspended. the heels of Justice Sandil still an attractive zone, so environment-related lawsuits are While the notice has been Kissoon’s ruling on May 3, 2023

Friday – June 2, 2023 government has been capitalising often lengthy and we believe that issued, the EPA has also filed an ordering Exxon to provide an on this by launching an auction and thedirectandindirectrisksposedto appeal against the entire judgment unlimited parent and /or affiliate Jagdeo changes tune to avoid pushing for new Floating the business and shareholder value by Justice Kissoon. Submissions company guarantee for oil spills. renegotiation with Exxon Production Storage and Offloading in case of losing some of these pertaining to an application by the The failure to do so by June 10 —says any such move will affect (FPSO)vesselsoncomeonstream. lawsuits appear substantial, and EPA to stay the parent guarantee would see the Liza Phase One momentum of projects Hesaid:“Therewouldbeatime shareholders deserve proper orderuntilthefullcaseisheardwas Permit being suspended That in the future, you would not be able disclosureoftheserisks.” presentedtoAppellateCourtJudge, project is currently producing

Inthemeantime,ExxonMobil’s JusticeRishiPersaudyesterday 151,000barrelsofoilperday principle was an excuse widely ( E n v i r o n m e n t a l S o c i a l affiliate, Esso Exploration and Datadin who represented the Theshareholderinherproposal used by the People’s Progressive Governance) and because of what Production Guyana Limited agency, said the case before the said, “Clearly, ExxonMobil is not Party(PPP)administrationtoavoid shareholders are pushing for many (EEPGL) and the Government of court boils down to a matter of immune to risks of environment- renegotiating the lopsided of these companies too to switch to Guyana have finalised discussions interpretation of the financial related litigation. However, it agreement signed with American renewable energy that you may not for a mere US$2B parent/affiliate assurance obligations in the discloses what we believe is o i l g i a n t , E x x o n M o b i l . beevenabletodothis.” company guarantee for oil spills. environmental permit for the Liza insufficient information on these Government also said before that Jagdeo said it is important to Both have also filed an appeal Phase One Project. While it is the risks, leaving shareholders with an such a move could chase investors understand the dynamics of the against Justice Kissoon’s order for ruling of the High Court Judge, inadequate means to assess the away Two weeks ago when the oil industry and appreciate the global unlimited financial coverage. The Justice Sandil Kisson that the futurevalueoftheirinvestments.” companyheldapressconferenceat trendsbeforetakinganational decision on their application for a permit requires an unlimited parent She added, that the company its Kingston, Georgetown office, it (Continued on page 59) stay of the order will be issued and/or affiliate company guarantee

The ‘sanctity of contract’ to raise money because of ESG

ExxonMobil's Houston, Texas headquarters

Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin

From page 58 position. “It can’t be just about a one issue position or it’s not a one variable solution There are multiple variables that have to be all combined...but right now, the key thing is getting the investment dollars to flow,” he said. Jagdeo said 85 countries are now auctioning oil blocks with the hope of getting oil and gas companies to invest. As such he said, “What we are worried about in spite of all of what you just said is that it would kill the momentum. Momentum is everything and it is the momentum that we are worried about and it’s hard to pick up momentum back again.”

The VP also pointed out that increasing the momentum does not mean the government would be laxed on other aspects of the industry Infact,hepointedoutthat the government has strengthened the Environmental Permits while the country’s capacity to also fight an oil spill has been vastly increased with a capping stack in country, which would plug a leakingoilwell.Hesaid,“Sothisis my position on it It’s the momentum that I’m worried about. Not so much that what any negotiation would do It will definitely kill off probably the movement on the other FPSOs that areplanned.”

Routledge during a press conference on May 19 was at the time being pressed by this newspaper on returning to the table with the country’s leaders to discuss more fiscal benefits for the nation, in light of the continued success of the oil block- which happens to be the country’s largest – when he initially started off by describing the contract as worked extremely hard to avoid (GFS) revealed that the fire evacuation process as well as abletosaveanypersonalitems.The “competitive”. that but the government created an occurred between 02:30 hours and containingthefire. residentdisclosedthatwhenthefire Routledgealsoboastedthatthis environment where we couldn’t 03:15hoursonJune1.Itwasstated For their part, the Guyana started, residents nearby were is the “most valuable contract the stayanditendedupininternational that around 03:15 hours, a student Police Force (GPF) in a statement alerted but by that time the fire had countryhas”,therefore,thecountry arbitration and in the meantime, no wokeuptousethewashroomwhen claimed that the four male students already spread. It was explained ought to focus on how to make it further investment, you can see she discovered the building on fire had threatened to set fire to the that there is only one fire tender in work. In fact, he explained, “The whathappenedtothecountry,ithas and raised an alarm. The Fire building after they were chased theregionwhichisbasedinLethem moment we try to change the a huge endowment of resources, Service reported that quick action from the premises by the caretaker - some three to four hours away contract, the investment will stop, but sadly has lacked investment for bythedorm’smothersandvillagers Itwasfurtherstatedthattheboyson fromKarasabaiVillage. the local content development will many years and has moved from a resulted in all of the occupants of Thursday morning set their plan in Following news of the fire, stop.” production of 3 million barrels to the building being evacuated in a motionandexecutedsame. MinisterofHomeAffairs,Robeson Kaieteur News immediately less than 600,000 barrels of oil per safe manner The building was Notably, all the female students Benn along with officials from the sought clarity from Routledge on day.” partiallydestroyed by the fire and a that were in the building managed Fire Service, Minister of whether he believes ExxonMobil quantity of books, beds, clothing, to escape safely An alarm was Education, Priya Manickchand, Corporation would walk away if Schoolboys confess to setting other personal effects were also raised and ranks of the Karasabai and other officials, headed to the administration asks for a 10 Karasabai dorm on fire destroyed. At the time of the fire, Police Station and villagers formed KarasabaiVillage.Theycarriedout percentroyaltyforinstance.Tothis —17 female students, 2 dorm’s the building was occupied by 17 a bucket brigade and extinguished investigations and engaged end,heexplained,“Historywilltell mothers escape unharmed female students ages 11 to 16 and thefire. residents. you that when disputes start about twodorms’mothers.

According to police, the four Following the tragedy in contracts, investments stop, Four male students have Firefighters from the Lethem alleged suspects were contacted Mahdia, the South Rupununi investorshateuncertainty.”Hewas reportedly confessed to setting fire Fire Station accompanied by the andinterviewedbythepoliceinthe District Council (SRDC) in a however told that the question was to the St. Angela Girls’ Hostel police arrived on the scene around presence of the Regional statement had urged everyone to directly about Exxon and if it is located in Karasabai Village, 06:30 hours to carry out Commander, the Regional support and advocate for prepared to pack up and leave Region Nine, during the wee hours investigations and ensure the fire Education Officer (REO) and their dormitories with proper Guyana over such a dispute, ofThursday was extinguished completely parents The four students infrastructure and safety especiallysinceithasalreadymade Theinfernocomeslessthantwo Notably, it was decided that the reportedly confessed to the procedures for children seeking over30discoveriessince2015. weeks after a fire at the female displaced students be housed in the planning and execution of the education The council said:

In response, Routledge dormitoryattheMahdiaSecondary Karasabai Hostel while crime They are presently in “numerous concerns have been explained, “No company walks School located in Region Eight replacement furniture, and care custody assisting with further made regarding the dormitories, away easily I have lived through killed 19 girls and a five-year-old packages are being sent into the investigations. includingtheavailabilityofhealthy Venezuelain2004,5,6,7whenthe boy village The GFS thanked the According to a resident of and sufficient food, access to fresh government imposed a new Reporting on the recent residents of Karasabai who came Karasabai, while the students andcleanwater,electricity, contract on our operations and we incident, the Guyana Fire Service out in their numbers to assist in the escaped unharmed, they were not (Continued on page 60)

St. Angela Girls’ Hostel on fire

The aftermath of the fire

From page 59 thatremaininthefinalizationstage: Kingston and Sophia substations security, proper utilities and one for the pre-contract costs and installing reactive power furniture, layout and design of the totalling US$1.6B and another for compensation at New Sophia. The buildings, and overall living US$7.3B in expenditure incurred Guyana Power and Light Inc arrangementofthestudents.” from2018to2020. (GPL) is the executing agency for

They also called for a thorough With respect to concerns that thiscomponent. investigation of all dormitories and the pace of investments could lead

The third and final component for prompt remedial actions be to an overheating of the economy, caters to the institutional takentoimprovethesituation. the Vice President said for the time strengthening and governance of

The council recommended the being, this is not the case. He the Department of Energy to the following: arguedthatmostoftheinvestments tune of US$4.5 million. It was

1) Theoccupational,healthand go abroad with small elements of it explained that this component safetystandardsbevastlyimproved retained here. This is the case since seeks to finance capacity building with emergency plans and Guyana does not have the technical initiatives and best practice equipmentbeinplace. nor technological expertise and organizational structure, including

2) Replace all steel grills with industries to support the high level training and coaching of less hazardous construction development of the oil sector on its Government staff and technical materials. own. He noted however that the support for the development of the

3) Improvesleepingconditions governmentremainsmindfulofthe design of a new oil and gas forstudents. impact of investments on the legislative and regulatory

4) For every dormitory, a economy framework. The GEA is also the welfare officer be stationed to Exxon Mobil and its partners executing agency for this providethenecessarysupporttothe currently have five sanctioned Component. students. projects in the Stabroek Block

The Leguan solar project was

5) Increase the number of whichareworthoverUS$40B.The not initially catered for under the caretakers at the dorms and carry most recent project that was loan but is being funded through out training so that they can approved was for the Uaru Project. savingsaccruedundertheEMISDE adequatelycarryouttheirduties. Itwillhaveaproductioncapacityof programme The IDB project

6) Appropriate and adequate approximately 250,000 gross documents indicate that under foodsupplyforstudents. barrels of oil per day with components one and three,

7) An enhanced team be production targeted to startup in US$0.97 million was saved, while established to monitor the 2026. US$0.23 million was saved under dormitoriesacrossthehinterland. The US$12.7B development theprojectmanagementcosts. will target an estimated resource According to the Bank, “The Saturday – June 3, 2023 base of more than 800 million Government has requested the barrels of oil and include up to 10 Stabroek Block Hess Guyana mitigation, (ii) investing in the support of the IDB to finance an

PUMP IT BABY! PUMP IT! drill centers and 44 production and Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent reinforcement of transmission additional 0.60 MW solar PV farm VPJagdeo not worried if over injection wells MODEC, a interest and CNOOC Petroleum infrastructuretoimprovereliability witha0.80MWstoragecapacityon US$40B oil projects overwhelm Japanese firm, is constructing the Guyana Limited holds 25 percent and stability of the Demerara- a land area of 1 hectare (2.48 acres) Guyana’s monitoring capacity floating production, storage and interest. Berbice Interconnected System, on the island of Leguan located in offloading (FPSO) vessel for Uaru, and (iii) strengthening the the Essequibo River in Region 3. If Vice President, Dr Bharrat which will be called Errea Wittu, GEApursuing new Department of Energy to develop a necessary, the Government will Jagdeodoesnotshareconcernsthat underanEngineering,Procurement solar project for Leguan regulatory framework, and requestanextensionofEMISDEto the government’s speedy approval andConstruction(EPC)contract. with IDB US$1.8M loan improve institutional capacity and accommodatethecompletionofthe for oil projects in the Stabroek As for ongoing Stabroek Block governance of the oil and gas additional solar farm A new Block could outstrip the country’s projects, the Liza Phase 1 and Liza The Government of Guyana sector transmission line will also be already thin monitoring Phase 2 developments produce (GoG) has received a loan from the The loan has three components established to facilitate capabilities.According to the chief 150,000 barrels of oil and 220,000 Inter-AmericanDevelopmentBank with the first US$8 6 million interconnection with the project. policy maker for the oil industry, barrelsofoilperdayrespectively (IDB)todiversifyitsenergymatrix allocated to renewable energy The total cost of the project is authorities have an implicit The third sanctioned with sustainable and cleaner solutions for the hinterland. This estimatedasUSD$1,785,452.” understanding with ExxonMobil development on the Stabroek sources.PartoftheUS$21,160,000 component entails the installation It is understood that the project and its partners that it will have as Block, Payara, is targeted for loan will be used to set up a 0.60 of solar photovoltaic (PV) plants in sum includes the cost of a battery much time as may be need to startup early in the fourth quarter, MW solar PV farm at Leguan, three hinterland townships of energystoragesystemaswellasthe scrutinize and contest any and all with a gross production capacity of RegionThree. Bartica (Region 7), Mahdia construction of a new transmission costsassociatedwiththeblock. approximately 220,000 barrels of The Guyana Energy Agency (Region 8) and Lethem (Region 9) line. The project has a life of 20

During a press conference on oilperday (GEA)willbeexecutingtheproject all of which currently rely years.

Thursday, Jagdeo reminded that The fourth sanctioned and has since invited eligible exclusively on fossil fuel for Finance Minister, Dr Ashni since the government is not a co- development, Yellowtail, is bidders to submit proposals for the electricity generation

The Singh while presenting this year’s manager, the Stabroek Block’s expected to come online in 2025 procurement, construction and installation of a 1.5 megawatt Budget revealed that in 2022 expenses are looked at ex-post. He with a gross production capacity of installation, commissioning and (MW) solar plant within 3 03 governmentcommissioneda1MW noted however that there is no time approximately 250,000 barrels of turn-key delivery of a solar PV hectares (7.5 acres) of land is solar farm in Lethem, while work limit for the examination of costs oilperday Power plant, inclusive of battery planned in Bartica,1 MW within advanced on another 1.5 MW solar though the Stabroek Block Asixth development, Whiptail, energy storage and transmission 2.02 hectares (5 acres) of land is farm in Bartica and 0.75 MW in Production Sharing Agreement is expected to be submitted for linesatLeguan. planned in Lethem, and 0.65 MW Wakenaam. (PSA) ascribes a two-year deadline government and regulatory Based on documents from the within 4.65 hectares (11.48 acres) He also noted that tenders were for this exercise. Dr. Jagdeo said, approvallaterthisyear. IDB, this newspaper understands of land is planned in Mahdia. The launched for the completion of a “Thereisnotimelimitforremedial In total, six FPSOs with a gross that the new solar farm will cost an electrification of the Dagg Point total of 33 MW solar photovoltaic action and for recovery for production capacity of more than estimatedUS$1,785,452. communityin Barticaand the titled (PV) system to be connected to the expenses that may have not gone 1.2millionbarrelsofoilperdayare

Backin2018,aUS$21,160,000 indigenous village Campbelltown GPLpowersystemandatLinden. towards cost recovery under the expected to be online on the loan was approved by the IDB to in Mahdia are also expected under TheFinanceMinisterexplained PSAthatdon’tfitthedefinitionyou Stabroek Block by the end of 2027, support Guyana’s evolving energy thiscomponent. thatatotalof166.82kWofsolarPV canrecover.” with the potential for up to 10 sector Under the second part of the systems at 39 locations across the

Given his government’s push FPSOs to develop the estimated T h e E n e r g y M a t r i x loan, Guyana will be looking to regions were installed at the for local content as well as its gross discovered recoverable Diversification and Institutional reinforce the transmission householdlevellastyear Thisyear, refusal to rely heavily on foreign resources of more than 11 billion StrengtheningoftheDepartmentof infrastructure at a cost of US$9.95 hesaidgovernmentplanstorollout help on this front, he admitted that barrelsofoilequivalent. Energy (EMISDE) is geared million According to project a 30,000 solar PV home lighting the audits are not up-to-date. He The Stabroek Block is 6.6 towards (i) investing in documents, this component entails systems to the hinterland and notedhoweverthatthisisaworkin million acres. ExxonMobil affiliate sustainable/cleaner energy reinforcements at three substations riverainareas. progress. Esso Exploration and Production solutions to diversify the energy of Kingston, Old Sophia and 5 km A total of $1.8 billion was set Kaieteur News previously Guyana Limited is operator and matrix in the hinterland while single circuit overhead 69 kV aside in the Budget to finance this reported that there are two audits holds 45 percent interest in the contributing to climate change transmission line between the programme.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Dating & Marriage Coach to host conference to help women foster positive relationships, cultivate self-worth

In August, women

from different professions and

backgrounds would have a platform to be able to explore the profound connection between selfworth, relationships and their far-reaching impact on women’sdailylives.

This would be done through the ‘Manifesting The Relationships You Want Conference’, which is being hosted for the very first time in Guyana by Dating and Marriage Coach, Michelle Cumberbatch.

Enet appoints new...

From page 57

level success, ENet said he brings enthusiasm, professionalism, and consistency to the growing business team to engage a diverse set of business and corporate customers,focusingonthehighestcustomersatisfaction.He isexpectedtoplayaleadingroleasthecompanyunveilsnew productsandservicestothebusinesssegment.

With its focus on innovation, technology, and customer service, ENet leads the telecoms sector in providing unparalleled services to the people of Guyana, all while leveragingGuyaneseskillsandtalents.

"We are committed to advancing Guyana's telecoms using Guyanese skills and talents," said Vishok Persaud, CEO of ENet. "ENet is proud to be 100% Guyanese owned, managed and staffed, and these new appointments highlight our investment in local talent and building a world-class teamrighthereinGuyana.Wealsoaimtobuildanenergetic, vibrant team who represents some of our target demographics - all of our new heads are in their 30s, who understandandarepartofourkeycustomerbase."

"We are thrilled to welcome Robert and Devon to our team and to recognise Natasha and Ved's invaluable contributions with well-deserved promotions," said Vishok Persaud.

As the demand for faster and more reliable telecommunications services grows, ENet said it continues to invest heavily in the latest technologies in its mobile, wireless and fiber networks to meet the needs of consumers andbusinessesinGuyana.

With a focus on rapidly rolling out state-of-the-art services to all of Guyana, ENet said in a statement that it is prioritising service delivery across all of its networks. It outlinedthattheappointmentofthesenewkeyrolesispartof the company's commitment to providing the best possible servicetoitscustomersandleadingthetelecommunications industryinGuyana.

The company also said it is heavily focused on building and empowering a youthful team to drive its digital transformation and support the growth of Guyana's telecom sector

Coach Cumberbatch is an expert in the field, theirpassion. GuyanaforthelastyearandI where they can flourish possessing a wealth of The event is said to offer notice that financially, it is a personally, professionally knowledge and experience. women/ participants an gap between men and andemotionally She dedicated her career to invaluable opportunity to womenandbecauseofthatit The event is said to have helping women discover the transform their lives by is where women are a number of activities best version of themselves fostering healthier self- subjective to abuse, planned for participants by coming alongside esteem, forming stronger emotionally,physicallyandI including workshops and institutions that support r e l a t i o n s h i p s a n d am here to ask women to master class as well as a women’s mental health, unleashing their full start looking at themselves numberofdiscussions. well-being and abuse potentials. first in a way that is more ItisscheduledforAugust prevention. By providing The Marriage Coach realistic where they are 27, 2023 at the Pegasus invaluable guidance, she mentioned that she has been caring for themselves, first Hotel. Tickets are on sale –aims to empower women to coaching in the USA for a loving yourself,” she General admission $15,000 make healthier choices in d e c a d e a n d h a v i n g explained. whileVIPis$25,000. their relationships and experience the culture there, T h e C o n f e r e n c e , For information and to elevatetheirqualityoflife. she found that there has been Kaieteur News understands register persons can visit the Speakingtoreporterslast a gap in Guyana that she promises to be a turning w e b s i t e week about her upcoming wantstochange. point for all in attendance, www.ManifestingtheRelatio conference, Cumberbatch “I expect to start a equipping women with the nshipYouWant com and said that this event is geared movement in Guyana that toolsandstrategiesneededto c h e c k o u t at having women dive into really shift the way we as transformtheirrelationships, @coachmichellecumberbatc themselves and come to a womenseeourselves.Ithink boost their self-worth and h on the different social place where they understand because of my exposure to cultivate an environment mediaplatforms.

33 cases disposed at April session of Demerara...

From page 13 Lowe and Mikel Puran completed one matter with three accused indicted together for the offence of murder before Justice Priya Beharry All three accused were unanimously found guilty by the jury and will be sentencedonJune27,2023.

Of the 18 matters nolle prosequi by the DPP, seven complainants submitted written statements that they did not wish to proceed with theircases;intwoothers,the accused had died while the nine other complainants couldnotbelocated.

The Demerara High Court

Meanwhile, during the Berbice Criminal Assizes which commenced on inflicting grievous bodily separate cases the accused harm, testified in Court they February 7, 2023 108 cases harm. both pleaded guilty to did not wish to proceed with were listed to be heard. State ln one of the murder murder, they are awaiting their evidence and the trial Counsel Mohamed Muntaz caseswiththreeaccusedwho theirsentences.Whileintwo judge directed the juries to Ali presented nine matters were indicted together, one othercases,theaccusedboth return formal verdicts of not before Justice Simone pleaded guilty as charged pleaded guilty to the lesser guilty Morris-Ramlall. and was sentenced to life offence of manslaughter and The accused in the one

There were five matters i m p r i s o n m e n t w i t h they too are awaiting their matter for the offence of for the offence of murder, possibility of parole after sentencing. manslaughter was acquitted two for attempt to commit serving 25 years. The Trial The two complainants in byajuryverdictofnotguilty murder with alternative Judge upheld no case the matters for attempt to The DPP nolle prosequi counts of wounding with submissions for the two co- commit murder with two matters because both intent and felonious accusedanddirectedthejury alternative counts of accused died. The Berbice wounding, one for the to return formal verdicts of wounding with intent and C r i m i n a l A s s i z e s offence of manslaughter and notguilty felonious wounding and one commences on June 20, one other for the offence of Additionally, in two forinflictinggrievousbodily 2023.

Dating and Marriage Coach, Michelle Cumberbatch

WANTED VACANCY

Canter Drivers needed, must have car, van & lorry license and atleast 3 yrs experience. Call: 644-7088/ 624-7248.

Hauler Drivers required, must have atleast 3 years experience. Call: 644-7088/ 6247248.

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

Two able-bodied Porters needed, $5,000 per day. Call: 223-9677.

Male & female needed to work at supermarket in the Interior. Must be 18 years & older. Call: 674-9999.

One Housekeeper needed. Must be 18 years & older. Call: 637-6846.

One Handyman needed. Must be 18 years & older. Call: 699-8486.

One Cook needed to work at restaurant in the Interior. Must be 25 years & older. Call: 686-2201.

One canter Driver needed between Diamond and Grove. Call: 644-5957/ 645-4043.

One able- bodied male or female to work in a store. Call: 225-2313, 226-1497.

Domestic/ Maid needed. Preferably living on East Coast, must know to iron. Call: 653-0311 for more info.

Trucks and hauler Drivers, Office Assistant (with own motor cycle) and Audit Clerks needed. Email: nhlhrasst@gmail.com, Call: 623-6383, 227-1964.

Labourers for wood concession needed. Call: 626-0936.

One Cook needed to work in the Interior. Call: 684-1030.

Kitchen Assistant from 6 am-2pm, Food Server from 9:30 am-4pm Mon-Sat. Must have food handler's certificate. Call: 640-1069.

Qualified Welder and Mechanic, wanted for mining operation. Call: 697-2533.

Experienced Workers for pit, utility operators (must have valid driver's licence) and Cooks wanted for mining operation. Call: 697-2533.

TOURS

Suriname tour "Bold Caricom weekend trip" to Suriname. June 30th (Fri) - July 3rd (Mon),2023. Call: 639-2663/ 673-2348.

One Clerk needed for TSI Eccles office. Must have English & Mathematics. Email application:techserigy@ yahoo.com or call 615-9132.

Garment factory Worker needed. Attractive benefits offered and no experience needed. For more information Call: 226-2621.

Accounts Clerk needed. Must have a sound secondary education and 1-2 years Accounting experience. For more information Call: 2262621.

Male Engineer needed, Must have atleast 10 years experience in road & building construction. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

1 Male Project Supervisor (construction field), ages 35-50 years. Must have atleast 5-8 yrs managerial experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Bobcat Operators and Truck & Canter Drivers needed. Ages 30 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Male Personal Assistant needed. Must have atleast 5 years experience, driver's license & diploma in Business Management. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Driver needed @ Beacon Cafe, 127 Quamina Street, Georgetown. Must have a valid driver's license, police clearance & 5 years experience. Call 225-9409/ 655-8944.

Vacancy exists for 2 Sales Staff at Innovations America. Call: 226-9416/ 679-7391.

Kitchen Assistant, Supervisor, Chef and Salesperson needed. Call: 659-5559.

SERVICES

Visa Application to Canada and U.S.A, graphics design, advertisements,USA passport application forms & i130 application. Call: 6267040.

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 629-5526.

For all land clearance (grubbing), sand fill, housing plan and estimates. Call K. Lakeram Building Contractor: 692-8464 or whatsApp: 622-0267.

More Questions than Answers...

From page 5 spree of post - 2002 jailbreak, are once again influencing outcomes.

FOR SALE

Pure honey, wholesale and retail quantity. Call: 621-4273.

One Hilux smart, cab 2011, 2WD for sale in good conditions. Call: 624-8694.

4x4 Freelander landrover, 2006 4R, 4.5mil. Call: 624-8694.

Yamaha fibre speed boat with 115 HP, engine & trailer, $4mil. Call: 624-8694.

Three land in Rose Hall, Corentyne. Contact Bobby Reality: 679 2497.

Large Seaside Land in New Amsterdam measuring 1000 ft x 211 ft. Contact Bobby Reality: 679 2497.

House and Land for sale in Princetown, New Amsterdam, Berbice. Contact Bobby Reality: 679 2497.

Two story building with large concrete bond on two lots in Cumberland, East Canje. Contact Bobby Reality: 679 2497.

Williams’ escape has all the hallmarks of a well-orchestrated crime backed by strong financial support. The time has come where the government must stop sacrificing the poor class of people to cover the sins of the moneyed class, the well-connected, their friends and cohorts.

The action of the Joint Services is a clear indication they set out to kill ‘Smallie’ and others, while the State paraded prison wardens in the court as accomplices to his escape. One can conclude, from this exercise, that the demise of Williams is a collusion from the highest political level in collaboration with the Joint Services and other interested parties.

We must continue to demand answers from the Joint Services and Government of

their crime fighting techniques that only add further trauma and gruesomeness to our society with no deeprooted answers and plan to improve on crime prevention and de-escalation.

The Government of Guyana is yet to implement the numerous recommendations, from various credible reports, to improve crime fighting and prevention, suggesting they are most comfortable functioning in a society traumatising the nation and creating fear. They ignore the aged-old wisdom that violence begets violence. What the PPP is doing is breathing hardened criminals which doesn’t help the decent law-abiding citizens in society.

We must hold them accountable to manage the affairs of State in a manner that would ensure the safety and security of us all.

Lincoln Lewis

Betta the Siamese fighting fish... having one as a pet, it is important to note that Bettas are carnivorous and have a high protein diet.

From page 54 because of how territorial it can be but they can live with other species of fishes that do resemble its own kind.

LAND FOR SALE

Prime land for sale at No. 78, Corriverton, excellent location for business. Call: 6445072/ 690-4139.

30.991 acres land at Princess Caroline upper Demerara river west bank and Lot 17 Bushy Park Parika 275'x72' river and road access. Contact: 663-0800 or Email: ssrinvestgy@gmail.com

Property @ Section H Huston, land size 160x80 with three storey building 2300 sq ft and land at Alliance road Timehri 120X600, river & road access. Contact: 663-0800 or email: ssrinvestgy@gmail.com

Land 90x600 @ section A Triumph backlands, Good Hope Mahaica 75X170, 816 Mon Repos housing scheme. Contact: 663-0800 or email: ssrinvestgy@gmail.com

259 acres land @ Susannah rust, river and road access, 32X600 section A Triumph backland and 110X792 (2 acres) Crabwood creek (Corentyne) Berbice. Contact: 663-0800 or email: ssrinvestgy@gmail.com

Vacancy for a night Cleaner man. Call: 637-6700. Lethem (Commercial Zone 69x200), Carmicheal street, Friendship (85x200) Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685.

Mixed breed pups, vaccinated and dewormed. Call: 632-0350.

Male Betta fishes can live with females in the same tank but after mating and reproduction takes place, they have to be removed. Females tend to eat their own eggs while the male cares and protects them at all cost. So when the eggs are laid, males chase the females away.

In the wild, they eat small insects, zooplankton, crustaceans and larvae, so make sure their fish food has a high protein base. Like humans, it is advisable not to overfeed Bettas, because they can become susceptible to overeating and can become obese and develop health conditions.

FOR RENT

Business place for rent at Vreed-en-hoop junction. Call: 603-6400.

One large Upper Flat situated at Cumberland, East Canje Berbice. Ideal for restaurant and other businesses. 65ft x 44 ft. Contact Bobby Reality: 679 2497.

One bottom flat and storage space available in Vreed-enHoop suitable for clinics, salon/ barber shop, taxi service, office, etc. Call: 683-4281.

Brickdam (8000 sq ft office space) East Bank, Modern 5 br Home, Furnished apartments in Houston. Contact: Ray's Realty 627-9685.

Apart from its unique personality, Bettas have some interesting features. These fishes live in shallow waters such as swamps and rice fields, that are warm, contain little oxygen and low PH. In other words, Bettas can survive in extremely harsh conditions. There is one little organ that allows it to be so tough.

Bettas possess an organ called a labyrinth that allows it to breathe air just like humans. When it needs oxygen, Bettas would swim to the surface of the water; poke its head up and with the use of its Labyrinth gulp air before returning to the bottom. It is this unique ability that allows such an interesting creature to survive for years in captivity.

If you are interested in

Source of information: (https:// www.nationalgeographic.com/ animals/article/betta-fishphotography-bangkokvisaruteangkatavanich?fbclid =IwAR0pKz4t4n UDLBSyqrUwxHsRuY DYX12rs8zBIBJCPLse qGtHJJ_eoKkBs2g (https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Siamese_fighting_fish)

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One CRV Honda, $3.3M negotiable and 1 Toyota Allion, $3.350 M, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage . Contact: 649-0956.

PEN PAL

Looking for a female for friendship or marriage. Call/ WhatsApp: 686-5377.

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Property @ Good Hope on the Main road, land size 150x120, house is 8000 sq feet and Princess Street, Charlestown. Contact: 6630800,ssrinvestgy@gmail.com

Ogle, Tuschen, Subryanville, Better Hope, Carmichael Street and 4 apt building in Little Diamond. Call Ray's Realty: 627-9685.

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Fully furnished 2 bedrooms apartment in Albert Street, Alberttown. Preferably students, no smoking and no pets allowed. Call 231-5695/ 611-9134.

Eccles furnished studio apartment, wifi optional. Call:233-3974/ 600-3070.

Guyanese remigrant producing music because of love RichieRichGabbyRecordsStudio…

ByShervinBelgrave

Guyana is definitely not the place to invest in music for profit, but despite the challenges and major losses, producers face in the local industry, there is one in the business who doesn’t mind losing money In a recent interview with The Waterfalls, the local producer, who goes by the name of Richie Rich, said he is making music in Guyana because he loves it and that rhythm beats and sounds are part of not only his life but thelivesofhumanbeings.

Richie Rich said that many have advised him to quit making music because thereisnomoneytobemade in the local industry, but he would always respond, “Here we do music for love, here at the Jaggy Records Studio (the local recording studio he has set up in Guyana), we do music for love it is not a hobby, this is life.”

Richie Rich was born in Guyana and attended St. John’s College, but after dropping out of secondary school at age of 15, his mother decided to migrate to neighbouring Venezuela There, Richie Rich was offered the opportunity to further his education; he fell in the niche of music, something he loved since childhood.

“I can remember and I have photos of this when I was a child, my step-father had this sound system and me and my brother, we would put these headphones on and get a mic and we would be singing”, Richie toldTheWaterfalls.

After receiving his qualifications in music engineering (one overseas the technical aspects of recording sessions), Richie joined the Venezuelan music industryin2009.

During his career, Richie spent most of his time doing shows and working as a songwriter and singer It was going well for Richie Rich until the Venezuelan economy crashed and the country was plunged into crisis.

Richie was left with no choice but to return to his home country in 2020 but relocating and leaving everything behind was no easy task for the music producer

“

A l t h o u g h I a m Guyanese, it was very hard cause you don’t have a contact, you cannot get back your friends, you could not make a link, it was very hard,”Richiesaid.

Nevertheless, according to Richie, his mother always had the perfect idea. She

Guyanese music of

wash.

“...And there we started yuh know selling lil food, y u h k n o w n o r m a l things…hustling”. The new way of life, however, meant that Richie would be separated from his love, music and even though it made him sad, he would cheer himself up with his mother’scomfortingwords.

“She would always say yuhknow,wegottoputaside our past like where we come from and we have to start fresh.Don’thavefearmaybe starting over is the best thing,” the music producer said.

Richie accepted that starting over might be the best thing, but music, according to him, was a part of him that he could not let go.

To h i s s u r p r i s e , Barrington accepted his proposal and that is where it allstartedforRichieRich.At the time, he was not acquainted with many Guyanese artistes so he worked with Issibaby, a Venezuela artiste who started her career singing karaoke.

She collaborated with Guyanese singer Ezan Benzy and Barrington was impressed Richie was producing music again and then he met a journalist and singer, Zeena Henry, who shared her vision for Guyanese music to be recognised on the world stage. Together they birthed Iszwerich Entertainment, a small recording studio on W a t e r l o o S t r e e t , Georgetown. But as is the

wastakenabackbythequality of Richie’s production and decidedtoinvestbyequipping his bedroom studio with professional gear, which

change right now in Guyana’’ a positive Richie detailed.

Asked what can be done locally for Guyanese music to trend globally like popular singers, Richie said, “I want the Guyanese artistes to know is that we need support from all the radio stations, the newspapers, promoters, the DJS”.

“What people don’t understandisthatyouhavegot tokeepbeatingthatsongifyou playthatsongthree,four,five, six, seven times eventually people are going to like it somehow and of course the song would go viral in the country,”Richieexplained.

He noted that artists in the Caribbeanwouldgetthatkind of support from their respective islands and their songswouldtrend

Promoters from other countries would then book them for shows as well and give them free promo making their music viral acrosstheglobe.

reportedly opened a hair salon and the money they earned from that was further invested to open-up a car

The music producer recalled that while washing cars, he would meet people and spot camera gear and music instruments in the trunk.

One such individual, Richie said, was Seon Barrington. While washing t h e m a n ’s c a r , h e eavesdropped on the man’s cellphoneconversation.

“ I o v e r h e a r d a conversation with him talking musically I am a person when you talk about music, I am just there…It just burst out; I am just emotionally and mentally happy,”Richierecounted.

H e i m m e d i a t e l y approached Barrington and askedhimforanopportunity to showcase his skill in the localmusicindustry.

trend in the local industry, there is no major support for local music and Richie and Zeenasufferedlosses.

“I told her (Zeena) let’s takeabreakandIamgoingto save some stuff,” Richie said while adding that although they decided to save up to invest some more, he did not stop working with Guyanese artistesandcontinuedtomake musicinhisbedroom

“I remember using a blanketsothatthesoundwon’t expand”, Richie recalled Luck, however, was on Richie’s side An opportunity presented itself when a Canadian music producer from Canadian label, Gabby Recordsvisitedhimandasked to listen to some of his productions.

The Canadian company

included an interface, monitors and studio quality recordingmicrophones

It came as a huge surprise forRichie,butitwasasecond opportunity that Richie Rich was not going to let slip through his fingers, so the Richie Rich, Gabby Records studiowasborninGuyanaand hasbeendoingwellsincethen, producing genres of music targeting the Latin American, Caribbean and North Americanmarkets

“Our main artists right now are classified in different genres. We have Issibaby the Latin artist, we have Yellow Marshal the dancehall artiste, Dennis King another dancehall artiste, Zepe we have Gringo, Fido, Solomon and we are making the industry

Richie pointed too that while support is needed, artistes have toplaytheirpart by not being lazy when it comestosellingtheirproduct.

“Do not invest in music just to keep it in a flash drive and save it,” said Richie while explaining that artistes need to learn to p r o m o t e t h e i r o w n production by posting, and convincing promoters, DJs toplaytheirsongs.

“They can even get the media to give them publicity,” he said

As it relates to his studio, Richie said, “I am not doing itformoney,Iwanttoleavea legacy that there is a Guyanese producer in Guyana working and that Guyanese artistes came out of my studio. I want to leave a legacy that Richie Rich always sends something goodtothepublic.”

Richie Rich and other artistes in studio

Richie Rich during an interview with The Waterfalls

Richie working on a music project

PAC meetings cancelled 20 times due to absence of Govt. members

There have been at least 20cancellationsofthePublic Accounts Committee (PAC)

meetingssinceJanuary2021. According to a statement issued by the A Partnership

For National Unity (APNU), the astounding number of cancellations are due to the

absence of members of the government who sit on the statutorycommittee.

The Opposition Party noted that “The consistent absence of government members from PAC meetings, despite the need for two members from their side to establish a quorum, is a glaring display of incompetence on the part of thegovernment.

The PAC explicitly mandatesthepresenceoftwo government members, two Oppositionmembers,andthe Chairman to carry out a legitimatemeeting.”

Adding to the gravity of the situation, APNU noted

...APNU says clear indicator of Govt.'s disregard for transparency and accountability

their responsibilities or a deliberate attempt by the government to avoid being accountable for the nation's money

“This recurring absence by the government side underscores a broader issue of incompetence within the current regime Since assuming office, Guyana has been plagued by a series of unfortunateevents.

Yet, the fact that the entire government cannot muster the presence of just two members for a significant PAC meeting speaks volumes about their overalllackofcompetenceor their deliberate attempt to

disregard for prioritizing responsibilities, upholding democratic processes, and meeting their obligations to the public,” APNU pointed outinitsstatement.

In light of this persistent pattern of absence, the party noted that it is imperative to hold the government accountable for their incompetence and deliberate sabotage of the work of Parliament.

“Their consistent inability to meet the basic requirements of attending PAC meetings raises serious doubts about their ability to govern effectively and their commitment to transparency

that16ofthe20cancellations have occurred since the change in the quorum requirement.

“What is even more astounding,” the Opposition Party said, “is that this trend persists into 2023, with eight cancellations already recordedandcounting.”

In recent times, the party said it has become the norm for the government side to be conveniently absent from these crucial gatherings, often citing emergencies as theirjustification.

However, APNU says this excuse raises doubts abouttheauthenticityoftheir claims and reveals either a lack of adequate planning, o r g a n i z a t i o n , a n d commitment to fulfilling

avoid being accountable,” thepartyadded.

According to the party, since the PAC serves a pivotal role in financial oversight, ensuring transparency, and upholding accountabilityingovernment operations, the absence of government members not only undermines the fundamental principles of good governance, that of accountability “ W h e n a n e n t i r e governmentfailstofulfillthe requirement of having two memberspresentforacrucial PAC meeting, it is an unequivocal demonstration of incompetence and an unwillingness to be accountable.

Such a failure reveals a

and accountability which are needed to address the pressing challenges faced by the nation,” the APNU said noting that “This lack of commitment to financial oversight and accountability necessitates that they reassess their abilities and responsibilities, or else face the consequences of their ineptitude.”

Further, the Opposition Party concluded that “the government's continued a b s e n c e f r o m PA C meetings, despite the minimal requirement of having two members present, is a clear indicator of their significant level of incompetence and disregard for transparency and accountability.”

Small-scale farmers receive one-time...

From page 6

provision, enthusiastically expressed, “This training was exciting; I learned how to fertilize crops in the rainy season by digging andplacingthemunderthesoil.

I also learned how to use compost tea to enhance plant growth and how to use remains from my cassava and sweet potato cropstomakeanimalfeed.”

FAO remains committed to supporting vulnerable populations, including youth and women. The majority of participants at the workshop were female farmers and extension officers, followed by young farmers. Jaikumarie Persaud, a Livestock and Cash Crop Farmer, commended the training, saying, “The training provided was excellent…I learned a lot and received my

certificate. I was able to use the 4 R’s (Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time, and Right Place)inmyfarmandsharethesetechniques withmyfarminggroup.”

Moving forward, farmers are also set to benefit from input supplies provided by the FAO.

The government, on its part, persists in its commitment to expand social protection by widening the reach and enhancing the benefits of existing social assistance programs while introducing new labour marketstrategies.

The Joint SDG Fund supports countries to accelerate their progress towards the SustainableDevelopmentGoals(SDGs)and to deliver on the commitment of the 2030 Agendatoleavenoonebehind.

A sitting of the Public Accounts Committee.

Transparency advocates laser-focused on PPP Govt.'s handling of commercial agreements for Gas-to-Energy project

The Government of

Guyana often speaks highly of principles of transparency and accountability. However, its actions at times do not hold to the same standard. Guyana's extractives sectors have been plagued by a lack of transparency and controversy surrounding negotiationpractices.

H o w e v e r, r e c e n t developments have shown progress, such as the government's publication of mining deals after Kaieteur News' tireless two-year campaign As Guyana prepares to finalize regulatory approvals and commercial agreements for the Gas-to-Energy project, the largest investment in its history, it will be crucial to prioritize the transparency of

thisproject.

Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) said commercial agreements are amongthecriticaldocuments the government must finalise beforeExxonanditspartners make their final investment decisions (FID) for the Gasto-Energyproject.

“So, the government has decided that in order to confirm the 10-year extension of the Liza production license, it feels that it needs to take that to Parliament. So that is the last stepthatisbeingworkedon,” Routledge said during a recentpressconference.

It is wholly necessary for government to promptly publish the commercial

agreements on the website of the Petroleum Management Programme, as a crucial step towards building public confidence and ensuring responsible of this project management.

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, the chief policymaker for Guyana's oil sector, is hereby put on notice.

Transparency advocates will be laser-focused on the government's handling of the deals surrounding this project, given Guyana's history with controversies in the extractives sectors, surrounding secrecy and opaquenegotiationpractices. The Stabroek Block P r o d u c t i o n S h a r i n g Agreement (PSA) has been a focal point of concern, having been kept secret for

more than a year, and release b y t h e p r e v i o u s administration after unrelentingcalls.

T h e f o r t h c o m i n g commercial agreements between Guyana and the Stabroek Block partners for the Gas-to-Energy project hold immense importance. These agreements will shape thenation'senergysectorand have far-reaching economic a n d e n v i r o n m e n t a l implications. It is imperative that these agreements be negotiated in a transparent manner, with public confidence as a priority By promptly publishing the commercial agreements, the government can demonstrate i t s c o m m i t m e n t t o transparency and provide citizens with access to critical information to assess

itsperformance.

The government claims that Guyana is positioning

itself for significant economicgrowththroughthe Gas-to-Energy project. So, it is essential to learn from these past controversies and establish a more open and accountable approach to agreementnegotiations.

Transparency and a c c o u n t a b i l i t y a r e fundamental pillars of good governanceintheextractives sectors. By embracing these principles, Guyana can build public trust, ensure equitable distribution of benefits, and minimize environmental and

social impacts The publication of commercial agreements for the Gas-toEnergy project would provide stakeholders, including citizens, civil

society organizations, and industry experts, with the opportunity to scrutinize the terms, evaluate the project's economic benefit, an engage ininformeddiscussions.

The Gas-to-Energy project represents a historic opportunity for Guyana's development. It is expected tohaveamajorimpactonthe nation's economy Given the magnitude of this investment and the government's a s s u r a n c e s o f i t s transformational potential, it i s p a r a m o u n t t h a t commercial agreements are negotiated in the best interest of the country Publishing these agreements will provide clarity, enhance public understanding, and allow for meaningful participation in shaping Guyana'sfuture.

Surinamese nabbed with ecstasy, processed marijuana

Ecstasy

ASurinamese national was on Saturday nabbed by Police at ElizaMary,CorrivertonBerbice, Region Six with ecstasy and hashish (processedcannabismainlytheflowerbuds).

The Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit

Parcels of Hashish (processed cannabis).

(CANU) identified the suspected drug trafficker as Virjanand Narain. Narain was caught with almost 70 grammes of ecstasy and101.5grammesofhashish. He remains in custody at the CANU'S HeadquartersinBerbice.

Verstappen on pole for Spanish Grand Prix

(Reuters) - Red Bull’s he aborted the second once it championship leader Max became clear nobody else Verstappen flew to pole wasgoingtobeathim. positionattheSpanishGrand “The car was on rails,” Prix yesterday with Ferrari’s said the happy Dutch driver, Carlos Sainz joining him on who took his first Formula thefrontrowafteradramatic One win at Barcelona’s qualifying. Circuit de Catalunya in 2016

Verstappen was nearly andalsotriumphedlastyear qualified third in a dramatic investigation for two counts half a second clear of the “It was really enjoyable and surprising session with ofsuspectedimpeding. Spaniardandsogoodwashis todrivetoday.”

Alpine’s Pierre Gasly an Red Bull’s Sergio Perez, firstlapinthefinalphasethat McLaren’s Lando Norris impressive fourth but under Verstappen’s closest title rival but 39 points behind aftersixraces,qualifiedonly 11th after a trip into the gravel while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc will start a shock19thonthegrid.

Sunday June 04, 2023

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

The celestial configuration is speaking of a new period in which you focus on the way you differentiate yourself fromothers,Aries.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

This is the beginning of a new cycle, Taurus. There will be new issues cropping up over thenextseveraldays.Youmay have to rethink certain principles that you've adhered to in your relationships up untilnow

GEMINI(May21–June20)

Thisisapleasantday,Gemini. Indeed, the celestial aspects are predicting that it will be rather radiant, though likely lessintensethanthepastweek or so. You probably had some new perspectives to set up in yourprofessionallife.

CANCER(June21–July22)

Are you ready? Are you in shape for what's going to happen? The celestial aspects are heralding a new cycle that will be filled to the brim with activities, new people, and newprofessionalperspectives

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Will there be change in you during the next few weeks, Leo? This is always the question that one asks with this changing planetary environment.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

Anewwindisblowinginyour relationships, Virgo, and you probably won't be too sorry aboutit!Theplanetsarelining up to signal new beginnings. You will be able to take advantage of your recent reflections and test your new self-image.

Rambaran (95*) spurs Leguan...

From page 73

Across at Littles ground also in Scarborough, experienced Nicolas Sanichara bagged 5-24 off his four overs to pilot EssequiboCoastCricketClubtoanexcitingone-runvictory overMalvernCricketClub.

MalvernCricketClubwaspursuing134forvictoryfrom the allotment of 20-overs eventually bowled out for 133 in thefinalover

Carl Chowkai struck a fighting 50 including three sixes and two fours. Sanichara initiated the early disaster for Malvern having accounted for five of the six wickets to fall leaving Malvern Cricket Club precariously placed at 40-6. But Chowkai showed great determination to anchor things with a steady, 63-run seventh-wicket stand with Varun Balram(19).

Apart from Sanicahara, Ravendra Madholall picked up twowicketsfor27runsfromhismaximumfourovers.

Earlier, Essequibo Coast Cricket Club called correctly at the toss and their innings was built around Tony Singh who madeatop-scoreof45whileMadholallcontributed23.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Youwillbehappytoknowthat today contains the seeds of change for your love life, Libra. Beginning today and for the next month or so, you're likely to be amazed by the turn of events in your relationships withothers.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

Lastmonthyoumayhavebeen somewhat more extroverted and sociable than usual, especially regarding your emotional relationships. But beginning today, your attitude willundergoachange.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

As a person who loves to experiment with new ideas and discover new people, you will be delighted with the period thatisnowbeginning.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

Today's overall outlook is positive for you, Capricorn. You can expect to focus on giving a little more character, expression, or enrichment to yourdomesticlife.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

You're embarking on a phase devoted in large part to your love life. Make this time completely fulfilling by introducing fresh new ideas. Don't let these pleasures grow stale.Thecycleaheadisextremely auspiciousforromance.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar 20)

After the emotional havoc you went through over the last few weeks, the period beginning today will be quite soothing. You can take advantage of these smoother, calmer waters to rediscover emotional harmony and improve the balanceofyourenergyflow

Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton will line up fifth for Mercedes.

Six different teams filled the top six positions, with Canadian Lance Stroll qualifyingsixthandaheadof Aston Martin team mate Fernando Alonso, in ninth, forthefirsttimethisseason.

Thebigshockafterafirst phase red-flagged due to gravel on the slippery track was provided by last year’s pole-sitter Leclerc ending up onthebackrow

“Unbelievable,” said the Ferrari driver, who had complained earlier about a problem with his rear tyres, whenhisengineerconfirmed theresult.

Perezusedthesameword after the Mexican failed to make the cut for the top-10 shootout,havingjustscraped throughthefirstphase.

Mercedes’s George Russell was another casualty of the second phase, ending up 12th after also colliding with Hamilton at the end in a bizarre clash that drew the attentionofthestewards

“Georgejustbackedoff,” saidHamiltonovertheradio. “That’sreallydangerous.”

Mercedes blamed the i n c i d e n t o n a miscommunication, with Russell apologising and Hamilton requiring a new front wing for the final phase.

S e v e r a l d r i v e r s , including Alonso, spun or ran into the gravel in a tricky opening phase that started with spits of rain and was halted with 14 minutes and 13 seconds remaining on the clock. G

Verstappen and risks

demotion.

Meanwhile,detailsfromtheothergamesinasubsequent post,buttheactioncontinuedyesterdaywithtwomatchesin this Division. Essequibo Coast drew the bye. Malvern faced Ramblers at Littles while Leguan Warriors took on Bacchus RuffRydersatAshtonbeePark.

Furthermore, details in Division A also in a subsequent post.SixteamsareparticipatingwithMercenarythereigning champion.Aseriesofmatchesisalsoslatedfortoday

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. (REUTERS/ Nacho Doce)

Gauff rallies to beatAndreeva in all-teen showdown at French Open

Coco Gauff of the U.S. plays a shot against Russia’s Mirra Andreeva during their third round match of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris, Saturday, June 3, 2023.

P A R I S ( A P ) However, reigning

“Lastyear,Icouldsortof American Coco Gauff Wimbledon champion Elena just do my work in the rallied from a tough opening Rybakina pulled out of the shadow This year it’s a little settobeatMirraAndreevaof French Open before her more eyes on me I feel the Russia in an all-teen third-round match against pressure a bit different this showdown in the third round SaraSorribesTormobecause year.” of the French Open sheissick.

Elsewhere in the Chinese man to reach the

Zhang was the first yesterday

Experience eventually women’s draw, Bernarda third round at Roland Garros told as the 19-year-old Pera, Beatriz Haddad Maia since Kho Sin-Khie in 1937. Gauff, who was the runner- a n d A n n a K a r o l i n a Kho also reached the fourth up at Roland Garros last Schmiedlova reached the round in 1936 but that year, prevailed 6-7 (5), 6-1, second week of a Grand proved a step too far for 6-1, sealing the result with a Slamforthefirsttimeintheir Zhang, despite a lightning cross-court backhand careers. Last year’s men’s start on Court Suzanne winner finalist Casper Ruud Lenglen.

T h a t e n d e d a n recovered from losing the Zhang broke Ruud in the impressive Grand Slam opening set to beat Zhang openinggameandwentonto debut for the 16-year-old Zhizhen, ending a strong run takethesetastheNorwegian Andreeva, who earlier this bytheChineseplayer player grew more and more week became the youngest The fourth-seeded Ruud, frustrated. player to win a match in the who lost to Rafael Nadal in Matters grew worse for women’s main draw at the last year’s final, won 4-6, 6- Ruud as he found himself 0- the match with a forehand was the lowest-ranked Wild. That was the 30th FrenchOpensince2005. 4,6-1,6-4. 40downonhisserveearlyin down the line on the first of player to reach the third match at this year’s French

Top-ranked Iga Swiatek “I’m very happy with the second set but he twomatchpoints. round this year Rune won 6- Open that has gone to five continuedherimpressiverun being through the first three collected his emotions and Sixth-seeded Holger 4, 6-1, 6-3 in less than two sets. asshetookjust51minutesto matches. It’s tough,” Ruud — after a topsy-turvy set — Rune opened play on Court hours. Also, Tomas Martin beat Xinyu Wang 6-0, 6-0. said. “It’s been much more went on to level the match at Philippe Chatrier and he It was harder work for Etcheverry upset 15thSwiatek has dropped just pressure, obviously, playing hisfirstopportunity comfortably dispatched Yoshihito Nishioka in his 3- seeded Borna Coric, and eight games through three this year compared to last Ruud then improved in qualifier Genaro Alberto 6, 7-6 (8), 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 Nicolas Jarry beat Marcos rounds. year the last two sets and sealed Olivieri, who — at 231 — victory over Thiago Seyboth Giron.

Djokovic blasts ‘disrespectful’French Open fans

AFP - Novak Djokovic

Djokovic when asked to Hubert Hurkacz or Peru’s blasted French Open fans as describe his love-hate JuanPabloVarillas. “disrespectful” after he relationship with the Paris Djokovic was sluggish d e f e a t e d A l e j a n d r o

Tension: Novak Djokovic in action against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

crowd who have made no throughoutthefirstset.

Davidovich Fokina in a secret of their fondness for He retrieved a break to tense third round clash on the now retired Roger level in the sixth game but Friday Federer and the absent wasbrokenagaininthe11th, Djokovic,chasingathird RafaelNadalovertheyears. his low-energy mood not Roland Garros title and

OnFriday,worldnumber helped by a code violation men’s record 23rd Grand three Djokovic had to come for taking too long between Slam crown, came through back from breaks down in points. 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 both opening sets, saving a Davidovich-Fokina,who against the 34th-ranked set point in the second after haddefeatedtheSerbonclay Spaniard to reach the last 16 Davidovich Fokina had inMonteCarlolastyear,was fora14thsuccessiveyear failedtoserveforthefirst. unable to back up his second

Duringanoftenfractious Djokovic dropped serve break of the set and afternoon, Djokovic earned five times in the match as Djokovic, suddenly out of theireoffanswhenhetooka Davidovich Fokina, a his slumber, claimed the tiemedical timeout for quarter-finalist in 2021, break off a blistering treatment on his left thigh at matched him blow for blow forehandservicereturn. the end of the second set inthefirsttwosets. The first set had taken 85 having been on Court

However, the physical minutes in which the former PhilippeChatrierforthebest effort took its toll as champion managed just partofthreehours. Djokovic, the champion in eightwinners.

T h e 3 6 - y e a r - o l d 2016 and 2021, swept The second set featured

tormentors by mimicking “That’s something that I because I feel when Djokovic,apolarisingfigure throughthethirdset. six breaks of serve before their boos and nodding his find disrespectful and I somebodyisdisrespectfulhe in tennis, gave spectators a

headinwearyacceptance. frankly don’t understand or she deserves to have an sarcastic round of applause difficult and physical match. squandered a set point in the “I think the majority of that. But it’s their right. answertothat.” andathumbs-up. We played three hours just 12thgame. the people come to enjoy They paid for the ticket. Djokovic’s issues with In the third set, he for the first two sets. I Djokovic claimed the tennis or support one or the They can do whatever they the notoriously hostile Paris launched a ball skywards in thought if I lost the second breaker, and bellowed at the other player But there are want crowd came a day after US frustration which again set that we would play for crowd.Spectatorsjeeredhim peoplewholovetobooevery

“I knew it would be a D a v i d o v i c h F o k i n a

“Actually 99 percent of player Taylor Fritz pressed broughtjeers. fivehours,”saidDjokovic. as he argued with the umpire

Djokovic mocked his

single thing you do,” said the time I will stay quiet but his finger to his lips to shush

“He’s an amazing fighter before calling the medical Djokovic. sometimes I will oppose that fans after knocking out and there aren’t many timeout.

Arthur Rinderknech, the last weaknessesinhisgame. Hethenstretchedouttoa remaining French player in

“But a win is a win and I commanding 3-0 lead in the thedraw am very proud of the way I deciderandbrieflywonback

Fritz then blew kisses to playedtoday.” the affection of some of the the Court Suzanne Lenglen

Next up for the former crowd when he helped his crowd. world number one is a clash opponent courtside after a

- Support ‘up and down’with either Polish 13th seed nastyfall.

“Up and down,” said

(AP Photo/Christophe Ena)

Man City beat Man United 2-1 in FA Cup final to complete second leg of treble bid

Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan, right, celebrates after scoring his side’s second goal during the English FA Cup final soccer match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium in London, Saturday, June 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson) only team to win the league- Cup. He would depart as a club clear to Gundogan, who FA Cup-European Cup It was the 13th trophy in great. volleyed in right-footed

ON (AP) - timed by British broadcaster treble, in 1999, but needs a Guardiola’s seven years at In City’s final game of fromtheedgeofthearea. Manchester City’s mission BBC at 12.91 seconds — favor from Inter Milan in the the club and the 34th of his last season, he scored two United was looking to to win a treble of major only for United midfielder Champions League final in managerialcareer. late goals to complete a clinch a double of domestic trophiesstayedontrackafter Bruno Fernandes to convert IstanbulonJune10. The latest haul of turnaround from 2-0 down trophies in Erik ten Hag’s beating Manchester United a 33rd-minute penalty It was the 142nd FACup trophies comes in the same against Aston Villa and first year in charge, having 2-1 in the FA Cup final against the run of play after final and the first between season that the club was clinch the Premier League won the League Cup in yesterday, with the first of Jack Grealish was adjudged the two Manchester clubs, charged by the Premier witha3-2win. February, but more Ilkay Gundogan’s two goals tohavehandledtheball. with Prince William and League with more than 100 T h e G e r m a n y importantly ensure its class coming after a record 13 If Gundogan’s opener United great David breaches of financial rules. midfielder has been of 1999’s legacy was seconds. was probably his best goal Beckham among those in Citydeniesthecharges. arguably City’s star preserved.

WithCityhavingalready for City, his 51st-minute attendance at England’s After the final whistle, performer in the final Ten Hag’s team was retainedthePremierLeague, winninggoalmightbeoneof nationalstadium. City’s players ran from the stretch of this season, too, dominated, though, until the now only a first-ever his scrappiest as he met a City’s class of 2023 halfway line and jumped for and gave City that stunning last 10 minutes when Champions League title cross from Kevin De Bruyne became the 13th team in joy in front of their fans start after taking the kickoff substitute Alejandro stands between Pep from a free kick with a left- English soccer history to waving blue and white himself Garnacho caused havoc Guardiola’s team and foot volley that bobbled clinch a league-and-cup flags He passed the ball back down United’s left wing. He immortality in English between two United doublewhiletheAbuDhabi- Right at the heart of the to goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, instigated a chance in soccer defenders and past controlled team won a 16th celebrations was Gundogan, who booted it forward for stoppage time that saw

Gundogan, City’s goalkeeperDavidDeGea. trophy since 2011, when who might leave City after Erling Haaland to flick on. Raphael Varane bundle the captain, scored the quickest United was looking to City ended its 35-year title the Champions League final United defender Victor ball onto the top of the goal in an FA Cup final — protectitsproudstatusasthe drought by winning the FA because he is out of contract. Lindelofcouldonlypartially crossbarbeforeCitycleared.

Kipyegon breaks 1500m world record, Kerley cruises in Florence

AFP-FaithKipyegonmadehistoryatthe World champion Fred Kerley eased to Kerley for a shock gold at the Tokyo Florence Diamond League on Friday by victory in the men’s 100 metres, again in the Olympics,pushedbackayearto2021. breaking the symbolic 3min 50sec barrier absence of injured Olympic champion Teen sensation Erriyon Knighton easily while setting a new world record for the MarcellJacobs. won the 200m, crossing the line in a season’s women’s1500metres.

American Kerley crossed in 9.94sec, but best 19.89sec, 0.39sec ahead of nearest

The 29-year-old Kenyan clocked 3:49.11 insisted victory en route to a bid for a 100- challengerJereemRichards. to shatter the previous record of 3:50.07 set 200m sprint double at the world Knighton, 19, is a rising star ofAmerican by Ethiopia’s Genzebe Dibaba in Monaco in championships in Budapest in August was sprinting and holds the 200m world records 2015 in an awesome display from the two- moreimportantthanthefarfromstellartime. forunder-18andunder-20athletes. timeOlympicandworldchampion.

African champion Ferdinand Omanyala,

“It’s a good time for a season opener, I

Kipyegon, considered the greatest ever whohasrunthefastesttimeoftheseasonthus feellikeIdidgood,couldhavebeenbetterbut woman in the discipline, crushed the rest of far when he hit 9.84sec in Nairobi, was I’mhappywiththeresult,”Knightonsaid. the field in Tuscany, finishing more than 12 second, at 0.11sec, the Kenyan having also

Femke Bol charged to a season-leading seconds ahead of reigning European finished on Kerley’s coattails in Rabat last 52.43sec in the 400m hurdles as the reigning championLauraMuirandAustralia’sJessica week. Diamond League and European champion Hull.

“The most important thing was the win eyes gold at the Budapest worlds later this She fell to her knees in joy and disbelief today, I ran like I wanted to today,” Kerley year after conquering the record, the only major said.

“I am really, really happy, I executed the honour she had been without despite her

“My ultimategoal is to get double goal in Trayvon Brommell, who finished on the racelikeIwanted.Itwasastrongfieldwhich stellarcareer Budapest and all this is steps towards the podiumbehindKerleyattheworlds,finished pushesmeevenmore,”said23-year-oldBol.

“I’m so excited, so happy, I didn’t expect ultimateone.”

lastandthirdrespectively

“At the World Championships I have the this.Iwasexpectingaworldlead,notaworld - No Jacobs again - Jacobs didn’t race on home turf as he chancetowinagoldmedal...Sotoday’stime record,butI’msograteful,”Kipyegonsaidto Kerley won in Rome last year in 9.92sec pulled out of the event with a back injury as isnice,butthisyearisallaboutBudapest.” broadcasterRAI. beforeconqueringtheUSchampionshipsand hedidinRabat. British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith didn’t

“AsIsaidtodayandyesterdayeverything takingtheworldgoldinEugene. There has not been a showdown between take part in the women’s 100m, won by ispossible.” HisfellowAmericansMarvinBraceyand Jacobs and Kerley since the Italian trumped Marie-JoseeTaLouin10.97sec.

Manchester City players celebrate with the trophy after winning the FA Cup. (REUTERS/Carl Recine)

Faith Kipyegon reacts with joy and disbelief after breaking the women’s 400m world record.

GCB pleased over clearance of Beaton’s bowling action and return to action

Th e G u y a n a Biomechanics of the School Cricket Board of Sport, Exercise and (GCB) is pleased H e a l t h S c i e n c e s

to learn that pacer Department.

Ronsford Beaton has been L o u g h b o r o u g h cleared to return to bowling University has since issued a inCricketWestIndies(CWI) report stating that Mr tournaments by the Beaton’s action is found to Loughborough University, a be within the acceptable release from the board has limitsofabowlingaction. stated. Beatonhadbeenreported

Beaton was recently for a suspect action after the cleared after the GCB had fourth round of the West submitted several video Indies Championship recordings to CWI who a g a i n s t J a m a i c a a t forwarded the recordings to Providence.

The GCB fully supports Loughborough University H e f i n i s h e d t h e Beaton moving forward and for review The video tournament with eighteen anticipates him returning to recordings were assessed (18) wickets and was the bowlingwellandperforming and analyzedby Dr Mark leading fast bowler for at a high level soon, the King, Professor of Sports Guyanaatthetime. releasenoted.

GBATechnicalDirector

PoolemakeshistorywithIBA CutTechniciancertification

Technical Director of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Terrence Poole has created history following the successful completion of the International Boxing Association (IBA) CutTechnician Course, in theprocessbecomingthesecondGuyaneseto attain such a prestigious certification, a releasefromtheassociationinformed.

IBA Development Officer Chris Roberts O B E c o m m u n i c a t e d P o o l e ’ s accomplishment to GBA President Steve Ninvalleviaanofficialrelease.

Poole participated in the programme during his coaching assignment at the recently concluded Men’s World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from May 1st-4th. He becomes the second Guyanese to acquire the certification after three-star trainer Sebert Blake attained the qualification during his involvement at the Women’s World Championship in New the jurisdiction of the GBA to have attained Delhi,IndiafromMarch15-31. IBAcertification in the space of two months, Poole is also the third GBA technical which is indicative of the developmental official to successfully acquire IBA drive and direction currently being certification in 2023 following Clifton undertaken. That is our mandate and it shall Moore’s recent acquisition of the 1 Star continuefortheforeseeablefuture,asweaim certification. to create an ecosystem and environment that

The Cut Technician Course was only is beneficial to the advancement and longeligible for officials affiliated with the termsustainabilityofthesport.” national federation and who were already He further said, “Certification of our registered for the Men’s World coaches and trainers is essential, and it is a Championship from April 30th-May 14th in provenelementandcoefficientinthecreation the capacities of team coaches, doctors, of an architecture that will foster growth at and/or physiotherapists respectively The every level of the discipline.As the technical programme comprised one theoretical director of our sporting landscape, Poole’s section and extensive practical segments, role is pivotal in this regard, as he is at the which were followed by respective forefront of our technical aspirations and assessments. overall agenda. As such, his continued

GBA President Ninvalle said, “The certification, as well as that of our other acquisition of knowledge is a permanent technical personnel, will be a perpetual endeavour This is what the association reality and objective of the GBA. This wholly comprehends as we aim to empower methodology, which is an established global and educate our technical officers through point of reference, will afford Guyana the quality international education and ability to maintain its dominance within the certification. Poole is the third official under English-speakingCaribbean.”

All quarterfinal decks stacked

Yesterday, the In the final two matches J u n e 1 0 , w h e n t h e m a l e of the day, Chase’s semifinalistswillbedecided.

quarterfinalists

Academic Foundation

Atstakeforthevictorsin in 2023 ExxonMobil Boys secured a berth in the next the two categories are the and Girls Under-14 Football roundwitha3–0resultover championshiptrophiesalong Championships were Dolphin as New Central with $300,000 towards a confirmed when the Round- High opposed Vergenoegen school project, while the of-16 stage was contested at and pulled off a nail-biter 3 - second, third, and fourth the National Insurance 2. place finishers will have to Scheme(NIS)Ground. T h i s m e a n s t h e settlefor$150,000,$75,000, There were eight quarterfinals(finaleight)are and $50,000, respectively, intriguing encounters on the Bush Lot, Patentia, all for a school initiative, card as Bush Lot and Christianburg/Wismar, along with the respective Patentia were the first two Bartica, Westminster, trophy victorious sides in the Waramuri Top, Chase’s Thetournamentservesas eliminationround. Academic Foundation and a platform for identifying Bush Lot got past East NewCentralHigh. talented players who can Ruimveldt 5 – 3 while

Meanwhile, the winners potentiallyrepresentGuyana Patentia won 2 – 1 over of the five Girls’ Groups, attheinternationallevel. CummingsLodge. who automatically booked This tournament is Christianburg/Wismar quarterfinal spots were organised by the Petra then collided with Dora as Waramuri Top, Tucville, Organisation, sanctioned by the Linden unit emerged Ann’s Grove, President’s the Guyana Football victorious 2 – 0 while College and Bartica while Federation (GFF) with Mackenzie met Bartica with the best second-place support from the Ministry of thelatterprevailing1–0. finishers were Charlestown, Education, Ministry of

The penultimate pair of New Central High and Culture, Youth and Sport, matches saw Westminster MarianAcademy Demerara Distillers Limited defeat MarianAcademy 3 – The quarterfinalround in (DDL), Guyana Shore Base 1 as Waramuri Top squeezed bothDivisionsarescheduled Inc (GYSBI) and MVP pastFortWellington1-0. to be contested on Saturday, Sports.

Former Guyana U-19 captain Eugene LaFleur slams 114 not out in Canada

Former Guyana under-19 captain Eugene LaFleur slammed an impressive, unbeaten 114 to pilot

Melbourne Sports Club to an exciting 66-run win over Cricket Club of Canada in their opening match of the 2023 Canadian Commonwealth Cricket Association of Toronto 40-overs competition.

PlayinglastSundayatKeeleTopinNorth York, the left-handed batsman LaFleur cracked eight fours and a similar number of sixes as his team, the defending champion, reached a formidable 349-4 from their 40overs.

However,middle-orderbatsmanRonaldo Thurton provided some entertainment for Ullah and Miguel Gordon chipped in with 61 CricketClubofCanadawithanattractive,74- and53respectively ball 134 but his team fell for 283 in the 38th Melbourne Sports Club won the toss and over withouthesitationoptedtotakefirstknockin

He belted 14 fours and nine sixes and aglorioussunshine. didn’t find enough support at the other end Meanwhile, the 11-team round-robin despite they threatened the target tournament was set to resume yesterday with momentarily aseriesofmatchesacrosstheGreaterToronto PacerandskipperPowellJoe-Waynetook Area. Cricket Club of Canada clashed with three wickets for 42 runs from his maximum Tornto Golden Knights at Norfinch facility, eightovers. while today with another set of games, Apart from LaFleur’s flamboyance, Melbourne Sports Club and points-leader which lasted for 72 balls, Sherwin Layne Apollo Sports Club will match their skills contributed a vital 77 not out while Hafeez alsoatKeeleTop.

Eugene LaFleur

Ronsford Beaton

Technical Director of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Terrence Poole

Inaugural Adult’s ‘Learn to Swim’ programme commences yesterday

TheMinistryofCultureYouthandSports Addressing the gathered participants, (MCYS) through the National Sports Minister Ramson Jr expressed his gratitude Commission (NSC) fulfilled its promise to totheattendees,saying,“I’dliketothankyou the public yesterday, following the for your time and also for trusting us. It is of commencement of the inaugural Adult’s utmost importance to me that you recognize ‘Learn to Swim’ programme at the National the significance of this programme, which Aquatic Center, Lilliendaal. This initiative wasconceivedbyViceChairmanChristy marks a significant milestone in the And to see that it’s realized today It’s development of adult swimming in the because we (ministry) are honouring our country words and our commitments. And we’ve

BCB invest heavily into cricket in the Berbice River Area

- Foster pledges more assistance in the future

Over twelve hundred individuals eagerly been doing that over the last two years. It seized the opportunity to participate in this matters to me that’s why I make these groundbreaking programme, specifically references, because that is the principleand a designed for adults. An initiative which hallmark of excellent leadership ” The followed the successful conclusion of the minister continued, “I am extremely proud Easter Vacation ‘Learn to Swim’programme that you have chosen to entrust us with your held in April. However, the adult leg of the participation in this programme. I extend my Learn to Swim programme aims to provide bestwishestoallofyouandhopeyouachieve adults with valuable learning experiences, greatsuccessinyourswimmingendeavors.” whilefosteringpersonalgrowth.

The programme will be conducted every

Theopeningceremonyoftheprogramme Saturday and Sunday throughout the month was graced by a distinguished panel of of June. Registered participants can attend officials, including the Minister of MCYS, sessions at the National Aquatic Center on Charles Ramson Jr., the Deputy Chairperson Saturdays from 14:00 to 15:00 hrs and at the of NSC, Christy Campbell, the Director of Colgrain Swimming Pool on Sundays from Sports, Steve Ninvalle, and the Assistant 15:00to16:00hrs.Meanwhileattheopening DirectorofSports,FrankieWilson. ceremony, NSC Vice-Chair Campbell

Thisadultswimmingprogrammemarked assured the attendees that over thirty fully thefulfillmentofapromisemadebyMinister trained coaches would be available to assist RamsonJr duringtheconclusionoftheyouth theadultlearnersontheirswimmingjourney, programme, highlighting the government’s imparting the art and techniques of commitmenttoitscitizens. swimming.

Who to blame for the decline of sports in Guyana?

- Is Guyana getting a fair deal from those in charge?

By Samuel Whyte

point to note is that most of our stars performers used to be home grow or home

As one ponders about the state of sports based. in Guyana, many questions are being asked Sports is now heavily concentrated in as to what passes as sports or sport Georgetown. While some organizations are administration these days. Has sports trying others are badly lacking in every improved or declined in Guyana. Is Guyana aspect of their game. Others need to expand gettingafairdealfromthoseincharge? to other parts of Guyana rather than being

The overwhelming answer is the conductedlikeaclubinGeorgetown. administration of sport in Guyana leaves Notsolongago,sportsusedtobeplayed much to be desired. The country is not in the entire country with fierce rivalry participating in sports or winning like betweenGeorgetown,LindenandBerbice. before. Why are we not performing like Money cannot be a problem, since beforeorbetter?Who’stoblame? Guyana is now awash with finances. We

Before I continue, I would like to have money more than many countries. imploremyfellowjournalisttobegintolook There is money to do almost anything. We at the functioning of many of these sporting can outbid, we can bring the best coaches bodies. We should not be just filing results too. and events, but call activities as it is. With Some pertinent questions being asked at Guyana getting into the big league we have the moment are - Do we elect Sports toupourgame. administrators or dictators. Are our sports

My decades of involvement in sports administrators and directors just lazy with along with other views would help to many being in conflict of interest positions? conclude that what passes as sports in Itcannotbealackoftalent,whichisabound Guyana now leaves more questions than throughoutGuyana. answers. Theissuesaremany Sportisafar Wehadalotgoingonwithoutmoney,we cryfromwhereitusetoorshouldbe. had Guyana Games and many more without

Berbice Cricket Board President,HilbertFoster,last weekend reassured the cricket teams in the Berbice Area that the cricket board wouldcontinuetoinvestinto the area and make sure that they benefit from the massive development taking place in the county Foster, who only returned to his position a few weeks after a profound illness stated that the riverain area is very important to the overall development of Berbice Cricket and no stones would be left unturned in the quest ofoveralldevelopment.

The BCB last week hosted two major cricket finals in the area between Wiruni Cricket Club and the SandHills Friends team at the Area H Ground in Rose Hall Town. The two finals were for the Dave West Indian 40 overs and the Sir arrangement would be put select the best possible team J

0/20 into place for a BCB fortheknockouttournament. tournaments Both finals coaching team to visit the The BCB has already attracted large crowds with area during the August donatedafullsetofcoloured residents of the area holidays. clothing for the team and travelling out to the coast The BCB also handed clubs in the area would land in their numbers to over a large quantity of shortly receive red balls to support their respective cricket gear to the clubs play in future tournaments at hometeams. along with scorebooks as the second division level. A

Foster met with the efforts continue to assist as practice net was also handed leadership of both teams and muchaspossible. over to the Wiruni Cricket expressed delight at the huge The Berbice River Club to assist them to supportthatcrickethasinthe Cricket Association also organise better sessions for area. Among the areas the received two boxes of white their members, while the BCB President committed to balls to assist in the Sand Hills teams received a were; hosting of training preparationofafirstdivision set of white uniforms for programmes for youth team for the upcoming members who do not have players along with umpires BCB/Speakers Cup 20/20 any.Fosteralsocommittedto andscorersinthearea. tournament. hostingtheareaininter-zone

The BCB President It would be the first time levels at the under 15, under handedoverasetoftheBCB that the riverain area would 17andunder19levelsoncea historic coaching manual participate at that level in the team is selected to play. A and youth information 84 years history of the commitment was also made booklets to the two teams for Berbice Board and Foster for the area to obtain a them to work with their urged the three teams in the bowling machine by the last youths. In the meanwhile area to work together to quarterofthisyear

FornowIwouldnotsingleoutanysport, money Now there is money So what is it but look at things with a broad brush and causingthedecline? challengeanyonetosaydifferent.

With Guyana awash with money the

IndaysgonebyGuyanausedtocompete administrators should put the right policies at the highest pedestal in almost every and people in place that will give Guyana a sporting discipline. Not just participate, but chance to do much better than what is compete with fair success. An important happeningatthemoment.

Floyd Benjamin hands over practice net to Wiruni Cricket Club.

Hercules says new batch of coaches crucial part of countrywide GCB Academies/future of Guyana Cricket

Guyana Harpy Eagles

Head Coach Ryan Hercules believes this new batch of level1&2coacheswillplay a pivotal role In the growth of the Guyana Cricket Board ( G C B ) a n d t h e i r countrywide Academy Programmes.

Hercules told Kaieteur Sports thatfollowingtheend to the recent Cricket West Indies (CWI) Level 1 and 2 courses held at Providence more than a week ago, he’s pleasedwiththeaftermathof things.

Guyana Harpy Eagles

Head Coach Ryan

Hercules and West Indies Test opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul have a chat.

“After the end of the course and even during, I am happy to see the coaches eagerness and interest to of the educational aspects of not only in clubs and see the likes of Anthony his belt this season, off the ambassador for your learn what was taught by the courses as it relates to academies but across B r a m b l e , R a j e n d r a backofasuccessfulrunwith community, county, and facilitators The new marrying that with schools.” Chandrika, Assad Fudadin GuyanaAmazonWarriors as country Create a culture pathway of coaching from academics/school. The recent course andothersembarkingonthis assistant coach last season where players would want to CWI is vital for coaches to “It’s very important to featured not only a number venture with their most and a much more recent run come and learn new skills get the knowledge to share have these educational of local pure coaches, but a recent playing knowledge as Coach of Team Headley, andevenbasicknowledgeof withplayerswhotheywould courses, we need more number of current and ex- and experience, I believe Hercules said his experience life. be working with, so I was coachesacrossthecountryto cricketers were also among theycannowsharefirsthand willonlyaddtothebenefitof “ Not every player may impressed with the turnout mold and nurture players. the 20-odd batch who will tips to players / do’s and the upcoming players as it make it to a west indies team of participants and the end With Guyana on the brink of now pursue a career in don’ts and much more to our createsabiggerenvironment but at this point coaches can results of the course,” said being a cricketing hub coaching.Hercules,aformer less experienced coaches offfield. also be role models to guide Hercules. Hercules, one of throughout the world it national player turned elite and young players,” said “Be the best you can in them along a path of being the few Level 3 qualified w o u l d o p e n m o r e coach, was pleased to see Hercules. imparting the knowledge successfulinlifeoverall,”he coaches around the West opportunitiesforplayersand moreofhiskindonboardthe With a 4-Day title under learned at the course, be an ended. Indies, followed up by evencoachestobeapartofa train. touching on the importance professional environment, “Asaformercricketer,to

GCB has ‘fruitful’meeting with GCUC

KMTC to hold Board of Directors meeting today

The Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) of Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice, continues to set the pace for the horseracingentitiesinGuyana.

Dubbed as the premiere horse racing institution in Guyana, the club is living up to itsbilling.Theclubwillbeholdingaboardof directorsmeetingatitsentitytoday

OnThursdayattheGuyanaCricket Yadram. Board’s (GCB) Office, some of Theincreaseinfeeswasagreedtobyboth

the newly-elected executives parties while the GCB agreed that umpires in Guyana Cricket Umpires Council (GCUC) another County could travel the day before met with the GCB to discuss issues affecting matchdayandwouldbeaccommodatedatthe theGCUC. ChetramSinghCentreofExcellenceatLBIin

At the end of the discourse in which roomsinadifferentsectionfromtheplayers. severalcompromisesweremade,bothparties Among some of the other issues agreed to describedthemeetingasfruitful. were the updating of GCUC Bank account to

On the list of topics was the remuneration facilitate a better payment structure and forUmpiresforInter-Countyatalllevels. training classes to have more qualified Accommodation and traveling expenses umpires available for GCB competitions at forthoseofficiatinginmatchesfarawayfrom thelowerlevels. where they reside, a ‘space’ for a GCUC’s The sending of playing conditions to Office and the availability of Umpires for CoachesandUmpiresasearlyaspossiblewas inter-countygamesattheU17,U15andU-13 also discussed, while with regards to the Levels, especially on weekdays, were also request for ‘Office space’the GCB promised discussed. to explore the possibility of finding a place

President of the GCUC, Dawchan upstairsoftheGCBofficeoratLBI. Nagasar and GCUC executives from all three Both parties promised to work in the best Counties negotiated with GBC’s Anthony interest of each other for the development of D’Andrade, Davteerth Anandjit and Kavita Guyana’scricket.

Theclubis probablytheonlyonethathas most of the requirements in place. It has a board of directors that meets regularity The venue is well laid out with well-kept pavilions with enough accommodation for officialsandspectators.

The lawns are well-kept as are the stables and parade area with a starting gate. The KMTC is one of the few tracks where you haveaclearviewoftheentirerace.Italsohas acaretakerwhoexecutesdailychores.

Horse Industry Specialist, Basil Bactowar

The club which is headed by Matriarch provisionalprogramme,entries,sponsorship, andHonoraryPresident,Mrs.ChanKennard, repairs and upgrade of the pavilion, the track isingoodhands.Aveteraninthehorseracing and the entire venue including stables and industry, Mrs. Kennard has close to 60 years displayarea.

in the business of horse racing and has been According to the principals, Security and withtheclubsinceitwasbuilt. the Safety of the Patrons and venue are

She is well supported by Chief Executive integralissuesthatarealsoontheagenda. Officer, Basil Bactowar, a retired Horse A total of six races are listed for the day Industry Specialist with British Columbia’s with over $4M in cash, trophies and other MinistryofAgricultureinCanada. incentivesatstake.

Bactowar, who has a Master’s Degree in The other members of the Board of Animal Science and Nutrition, is more than Directors are Secretary Niketa Ross, Pastor qualifiedforthejob. Quesi Henry, Ivan Dipnarine, Isaac Dalloo

According to Bactowar, the club is WalterBagot,AnilGanesh,RameshPersaud, preparing for its next race meet on Monday, Earl Harvey, Therbhuwan Jagdeo and Fazil July 3. Topics to be discussed include the Younas. (Samuel Whyte)

Ryan Hercules and Gudakesh Motie.

President of the GCUC, Dawchan Nagasar (right), negotiates with GCB’s Antonty D’Andrade and Davteerth Ananjit. (Sean Devers photo)

June is Women’s Golf Month

...Guyana leads with highest percentage of women golfers

This year, Nexgen 36%. However, in Guyana, less experienced women Golf Academy the percentage of female golferstohaveacompetitive and the Guyana participants in Golf is at an chance. And it was in 1917,

Golf Association incredible65%! the United States Golf is promoting golf among This is proof that the Association (U S G A ) women with the help of fun Guyana Golf Association formed its Women’s events at their Woolford and Nexgen Golf has Tournament Committee. It Avenue location throughout contributed a lot towards the later became the Women’s theentiremonth. growth of the sport among Committee of the U.S.G.A.

Women’s Golf Month women and they continue to in1934. was launched by the PGAin launchmoresuchcampaigns 2005 and is celebrated in to further spread the June. popularityofthesport.

Chip & Putt events History of Women’s Golf during the evenings and Month… weekends with trophies and Mary, Queen of Scots, prizes such as bottles of who ruled Scotland from wine, massages and golf 1542 to 1567, is considered lessonswillbeupforgrabs. to have been the first woman

These events are toplaygolf.Itwasduringher designed to provide a reign that the famous St. friendlier environment for Andrews Links golf course women golfers Nexgen’s was built. However, the first Golf Month is a way to help women’s golf club was both casual and avid women formed much later in 1867 golferstogetinthegame,get — the St. Andrews Ladies’ to know each other, and GolfClub.Itlatercametobe contribute to the growth of known as the St. Andrews women’s participation in Ladies’PuttingClub. golf. In 1893, Issette Miller, Fifteen years ago, less one of the leading women than 20% of young golfers golfers of the time, invented worldwide were female and the first golf handicapping today that number stands at system.Thishelpedeventhe

Rambaran (95*) spurs Leguan Warriors to a win

- Sanichara grabs 5 wickets for Essequibo Coast in OSCL’s tourney

Devon Rambaran missed out on a maiden century last Sunday in the second round of the 2023 Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) Regular Season 20-overs competition reaching 95 not out at Ashtonbee Park, ScarboroughinBDivision.

Rambaran slammed nine sixes and five fours to help Leguan Warriors beat Ramblers by five wickets with16ballstospare.

Warriors chased down Ramblers’challenging159-6 from 20-overs. Extras (39) was the other highest score for Leguan Warriors as Rajindra Persaud Monty Dass grabbed five (unrelated) snatched three wicketsfor13runsfromfour wickets (hat-trick) for 41 tidyovers. runs from his maximum four

Devon Rambaran

After Ramblers winning overs. Naresh Bodo was also the toss and decided to bat, in the wicket-columnwith 2Dass led the way with a top- 24 in his four-over stint for score of 32, while Richard thewinningcombination. Persaudchippedinwith26. (Continued on page 67)

A few women receive tips on the driving range of the Nexgen Golf Academy