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Our nurses, our future
Today is International Nurses Day (IDN) – a global healthcareeventthatiscelebratedonthe12thofMayevery year The day recognises Florence Nightingale's birth anniversary, the founder of modern nursing, and aims to give recognition to the profession's influence on the economy, society, and culture while encouraging nurses' acceptance, support, and inclusion on a global scale. This year the day is being observed under the theme: “Our Nurses Our Future Caring for nurses strengthens economies”. This theme highlights how crucial it is to promote nurses' health and wellness. It emphasizes how important a healthy nursing workforce is for providing high-quality care, as well as for improving healthcare systems and increasing economic resilience on a global scale. The theme also urges immediate funding and workable solutions to safeguard nurses from emotional, mental,andphysicaldifficultieswhilemakingsuretheyare respected,valued,andsupported.
InGuyanaweneednursesmorethanevernow Theyare worth their weight in gold, in some instances, way more thanthatpreciouscommoditycouldeverbevalued.Asthey hold us close to their sights and attentions, many times to theirhearts,wemustreciprocatealsoinrememberingthem and holding them dear As we remember them today, we applaud them and hold them aloft for their untiring giving onourbehalfwhenmostneeded.
Weseethemquietlypassingbyintheirstarchedwhites andblues.Letusnottakethemforgrantedanymore,these whodedicatetheirlivestomorethanacareer,buttowards thelifetimeofacalling.Itisaspecialonethatnowattractsto an increasing degree more and more young men, which is anotherencouragingdevelopment.Thoughthingsarebetter than before, it is not the most rewarding or revered of professionsinGuyana,whichshouldbeimproveduponin both areas.Theneedis, also, for thepresenceof a broader cross-section of our population to cultivate the required interesttowanttodosomethingbylivingthatprofessional life and makingan importantcontribution.On the scaleof importance, there are few things, if any, that can compete with or surpass in terms of one's quality of life. The competence and great care of nurses make that possible duringtimesofpersonalandfamilyhealthcrisis.
Acaringnursemakesforalotofhealing,muchpeaceof mind when needed the most. We must cherish these presences, these comforting voices and the gentle ministrationsthatcomealongwiththem.Wemustthinkof these nightingales that float in the hazes of consciousness, thesharppangsofourpainswrackedbyfeversdiverseand machinesmishandledbyrecklessmen.Theytoilquietlyin the heat of days, amidst the hotter angers that sometimes blaze from those cared for by hand and those who come demanding more than their share. It can be a thankless undertaking, in the many bloody, sickly, dirty tasks and responsibilitiesthatgohandinhandwiththecleaningand soothingandthegivingofhope,whennonemaybeleft.
We at this newspaper have received numerous complaintsfromnursesinthepastabouttheirpoorworking condition. Unlike teachers and other categories of public servants, nurses very seldom complain about their poor working conditions, they do their work diligently, which means the public does not know that many nurses in the publichospitalsareoverwhelmedandaresufferingsilently from fatigue due to the fact that they watch many patients die from simple diseases that should not have resulted in d e a t h i n t h i s m o d e r n e r a Others are under severe stress, and as the health system bucklesunderpressure,theyfacethedifficulttasktoserve those in need of care. Some have simply resigned themselvestothefactthatthereisnothingtheycoulddoto make changes and improve the situation. Many of our nursesinthepublichospitalsacrossthecountyhaverelated thattheyaretryingtodotheirbestwithverylittleresources to ensure accessibility to health services to those in need. Some have resorted to stringent measures in order to cope
The role of nurses has never been more vital
DearEditor,
The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) proudly joins the global community in observing International Nurses Day 2025, under the timely and powerfultheme:
“OurNurses.OurFuture.
Caring for Nurses StrengthensEconomies.”
This theme serves as a critical reminder that nurses are not only caregivers but are also indispensable to national development and e
International Nurses Day, observed on May 12th, m a r k s F l
n c e Nightingale's birthday and her founding of modern nursing Her legacy of compassionate service, reform, and advocacy c
generations of nurses w o r l d w i d e L i k e
Nightingale, today's nurses work tirelessly, often in silence,toheal,comfort,and transformlives.
This occasion is an opportunity to honour the unwav
ice, resilience, and compassion of nurses across Guyana, many of whom are GPSU members serving within the employment of the Government of Guyana
Nursesarethecornerstoneof our healthcare system, delivering essential services in hospitals, clinics, and communities nationwide, often under immense pressure with limited resources and inadequately compensate.
Inacountryexperiencing rapid economic expansion through the oil, energy, and gassectors,theroleofnurses hasneverbeenmorevital.A growingeconomyrequiresa strong, healthy population, and that begins with a wellsupported nursing workforce.
Key Issues We Must Address: NurseWell-being MustBeaNationalPriority Nurses face increasing workloads, staff shortages, and emotional strain. Their mental, emotional, and physical well-being must be safeguarded through improved working conditions, wellness programs, and strong workplaceprotections.
Investment in Nurses is Investment in NationalDevelopment
To meet the demands of our evolving economy, nurses must be properly compensated, offered continuous professional
with the daily increase in trauma cases which range from stabbinginjuriestogunshotwoundsandtrafficfatalities.In some cases, elective surgeries have to be postponed due to shortages of staff and resources.As a result, some patients havetobereferredtoprivatehospitals,butonlyiftheycan afford the cost. Others, especially the poor, are painfully rejected by the private hospitals because of the lack of money
Finally,nurseshaveexpressedconcernabouttheirsafety whencaringforpatientsfromtheircommunitieswhoshow up with gunshot wounds. Many are known in their communities and are fearful of being caught in the cross hairs of reprisal killings. Also, priority is always given to traumacaseswhichplaceotherformsofpatientcareonhold, thus causing those patients and their relatives to become upsetandrowdy,whichsometimesposesathreattonurses. This is the case especially for those working in A&E departments.Suchfearhascompoundedanalreadystressful w o r k e n v i r o n m e n t
Thereisasayingthatinthearmy,itisthesergeantswhorun the show and make the differences that count. There is a similar sentiment that in the hospital, it is the nurses who deliver and make them run. Doctors come and go, sometimes before their presences could even register through the traumas that afflict, the chemicals intended to cure. But nurses are there all the time, be it waking or sleeping,inpainorinreadyingtosaygoodbye.Itisatime thatwouldberememberedforwhateverisleftinalifetime, inthesoftrustleoftheirsoothingnearness,thetouchoftheir fingers, the blessed reliefs that they bring when we cry out withouragoniesthatcomefromourhurts.
WepraythatGodwillblesstheworkoftheirhandsand their hearts will always be about what is compassionate, noble, and life-giving. International Nurses Day should be morethanoneday,sinceeverydayisworthyofacelebration oftheirlife-savingefforts.
development, and provided with safe and supportive environments A robust
e strengthens public health systems and underpins economicstability
ImpactofMass NurseMigration
Guyanaisexperiencinga significant exodus of experienced nurses to countries like the UK, USA, and Canada in pursuit of better compensation and career opportunities This brain drain threatens the continuity and quality of c
re, pa
larly in hinterland and underserved regions Urgent policy reforms are necessary to retain skilled professionals and make nursing a sustainablecareerathome.
Nurses in an EnergyDrivenEconomy
As Guyana positions itself as a key player in the global energy sector, our healthcare system must evolveintandem.Nursesare essential to maintaining a healthy, pro
e workfo
which is foundational to continued economic growth Social investmentinhumancapital, particularly in nursing, must accompanyfinancialgains.
AGlobalCallwithLocal Responsibility
The GPSU echoes the
call of Public Services International (PSI) for all governments to protect the rights of nurses, enact equitable labor policies, and ensure sustained investment in healthcare systems Recognition must go handin-hand with respect, protection, and fair remuneration.
As we mark this important day, the GPSU reaffirms its steadfast commitmenttochampioning the dignity, safety, and professionaladvancementof nurses.Westandinsolidarity with nurses across Guyana and call on the Government and all stakeholders to take urgent, meaningful action appropriate to show real valueforournurses.
Let this year's theme be morethanaslogan,letitbea declaration that caring for nurses is both a moral responsibility and an economicnecessity
To every nurse serving our Nation
We thank you for your courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment Your service is noble and indispensable. Your work is vital. We see you, we value you, and we will always standtogetherwithyou. InSolidarity. Guyana Public Service Union
International Nurses Day
DearEditor,
The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) joins the rest of the world today, Monday May 12, 2025, to extend happy International Nurses Day to the29millionnursesandthe 2 2 million midwives globally, and especially to our ha
d midwivesofGuyana.
This year's theme is captioned:“OurNurses.Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies” Whileitisanopportunetime to highlight the care, compassion, courage, and commitment Nurses exhibit. It is equally necessary to ensurethatvalianteffortsare made to promote decent working conditions that allowforthetotalwell-being ofourNurses.
It was the Inspirational Nurse, Keynote Speaker, Author, Columnist and
Blogger, Ms. Donna Wilk Cardillo who stated that, “Nurses are the heart of healthcare.” In Guyana it is no different as Nurses provide invaluable services in our public health care system. Our Nurses play a pivotal role in the treatment, safety and recovery of acutely or chronically ill or injuredpersons.Theirroundthe-clock presence, observation skills, and vigilance allow doctors to make better diagnoses and propose better treatments Many lives have been saved because an attentive nurse picked upon early warning signs of an upcoming crisis like cardiac arrest or respiratoryfailure. It is therefore incumbent uponustocelebratethehard workthatournursesdointhe wide range of health care settings where they are placed. Thisdayisalsoa (Continueonpage5)
Amna Ally was a dedicated, committed, and loyal member of the PNCR
DearEditor,
When Madam Beni Rayman calledmearoundnoononSaturday, May10,2025,Ithoughtshewanted tojustsayhello,butitwastobreak thenewsoftheunexpectedpassing of Comrade Amna Ally I was in shock and grief as I did not know Ms. Ally was unwell. I did not know what to say, as I was also drivingatthetime,soItoldMadam RaymanIwasdriving,andwehung up the phone. Immediately after I pulled over and parked, as a deep hollowness began to fill my stomach, and I felt nausea, as all sortsofemotionsbegantotakeme over. This news rocked me to the core, not only because I was sad about Cde. Ally's sudden passing but due to who she was and what she meant to the institution of the PNCRandwhatitmeanttoher So, I began to reflect! Amna Ally dedicatedherlifetopublicservice!
Amna Ally was a teacher, politician, PNCR's chief party scrutineer for multiple national elections, member of parliament, chief whip, minister of government,generalsecretary,and executive member of the PNCR, who came from the bosom of the Young Socialist Movement (YSM), the youth arm of the then Peoples National Congress. She was fierce, bold, controversial, knowledgeable, fearless, kind, confrontational,helpful,andsavvy Shewasalsoago-getter Icameto knowAmnaAlly when I became a memberoftheGYSM,manyyears ago.Iwascurioustoknowwhothis sassy woman was and learned that she came from parents who were closely aligned with the Founder Leader of the party I learned that her father, Barkat Ally, one of RegionFive'sbiggestricefarmers, was one of L FS Burnham's
strongestalliesinthatregion.Ithus understood her passion and commitment to the party, which I never took for granted Amna struckmeasafierceadvocateofher party who would go the extra mile toensurethatshefulfilledwhatever responsibilityshewastaskedwith.
Cde.Ally,asmanyofuscalledher, wasmychiefwhipwhenIservedin the parliament, and during those years, we PNCR MPs made a commitmenttocontributeaportion ofourparliamentaryearningstothe party to assist with different programs. Amna Ally was not the generalsecretaryofthepartyatthat time,norwasshethetreasurer,but shewasboldenoughtoremindme ofthatcontributionifshethoughtI had forgotten, or even before the parliamentary salary had reached myaccount.Shewasrelentlessand aggressiveinhereffortstopromote party activities and programs
Though she was never the party's treasurer, she often acted as if she were responsible for raising funds for the party, often lamenting that “thepartyneedsmoney.”
Amna Ally, even before she became general secretary, led the party's fundraising efforts and activities.Wheneverthepartyhada fundraisingventure,shewouldcall me,astheNationalSecretaryofthe GYSM,andinformmethatshewas sendingacertainnumberoftickets for the GYSM to take care of. Beforesheendsthecall,shewould say in her true country girl vernacular, “Lurlene, yuh know mehnahtekbacktickets,youknow howfuhdoit,ifyuhwantmoreleh me know, gee all ah dem in de executive fuh sell tuh.” That was her usual aggressive approach to getting things done for the party, I am quite sure many in the party received those calls and heard that
usual “meh nah tek back ticket” refrain.Shedidwhatshehadtodo togetthejobdone.Sometimes,we cussed her out behind her back as we fussed at the way she would throw large quantities of tickets at us, but she never got any back. Amnawasmasterfulatfundraising, especially at congress time, where she took charge of meals for the attendees over the duration of the congress. She knew how many cows,bagsofrice,andeveryother item she needed and where those items would come from She planned and executed her mission well. Amna Ally did all she could havedonetoadvancetheinterestof thePNCR,andshedidsobasedon what she perceived to be the best strategy to achieve the objective. I didnotalwaysagreewithher,andI am aware that she didn't always agree with me, but what I know is that she understood that we both were passionate about the PNCR and wanted to do our best in the party'sinterest.Thiscreatedasense of mutual respect between us. I know that on many occasions she disagreed with me and would express that to others, because she wasthatkindofpersonwhowould just let it out! I recalled that while shewasminister,Ivisitedherather office to confront her on an issue, and she remarked that “Oh God Lurlenemehnahknowbutdah,yuh come till hay fuh dah,” then she quickly and skillfully tried to change the subject as we shared a joke about her office and her new role. I saw her again in 2020 during the last national election campaign I received a phone call from her saying she heard
International Nurses...
Frompage 5
time to reflect on Ms FlorenceNightingale,whois regarded as the founder of modern nursing and fondly remembered as "the lady with the lamp". She was involved in data collection which proved that the main cause of fatalities in the CrimeanWarwasnotenemy fire,butinfectionsattributed to improper sanitation. She wasapioneeringstatistician, probably the first person in history to use graphs and charts to persuade policy makers to better facilitate healthcareadministration.
So, understanding that our nurses play a valuable part in the future of society, wemustinvestinthequality ofeducationgiventothemto place them on the cutting
edgeoftechquityinNursing Practice, informatics, technology and innovation. Specialized nursing must be e n c o u r a g e d a n d strengthened. In addition, t h e r e s h o u l d b e remunerationcommensurate with the care, commitment, and the sacrifice that the Nurses demonstrate in the light of the rising cost of living as our fiscal reality allows for it. So, on this InternationalNursesDay,let us give a high-pitched note of praise to our Nurses in Guyana I implore our citizenstocontinuetoenroll in this noble though challenging profession. I also encourage more men to join the profession. Our nursesmusthelptolowerthe infant and maternal
mortality by their diligence and alertness. With God's help, strive to improve the patient- nurse relationship. The clarion call goes out as well to policy makers to address the determinants of health,toreduceinequity,to increase access to health care, and increase community participation Therefore,nothingbuta p e o p l e - c e n t e r e d approach would allow us to care for our nurses and ultimately strengthen our economies.
Long Live Our Nurses andMidwives!
Long Live the Nurses andMidwivesofGuyana!
Regards
Dr.KarenCummings Shadow Minister of Health
I was in Guyana and was on the road campaigning, I said yes and she remarked “but yuh nah get nutten fuh campaign wid,” I told herImademyownflyers,becauseI heard she is hoarding campaign stuff, she denied and give an explanation of what plans she had and asked me to go to congress place to collect some flags and other campaign paraphernalia. By thetimeIgottoCongressPlace,the instruction was already given to givemethematerials.
There can be no denying that AmnaAllywasmorethananasset to the PNCR and Guyana; she served in various capacities in the party and nationally. Her long and distinguished service in the National Assembly is a testimony tohercontributiontothenation.On her political journey, she helped to mentor and advance the political careers of many, some of whom might have forgotten. Yes, she did notalwaysusetherighttoneorsay the right things, but that does not negate the fact that she was one of the hardest-working members of the PNCR. She has dedicated her life to a party she grew up in; she has dedicated her energies and focus to an institution she believes in.
She fought for ideals that she held and beliefs of a party she revered. Yes, like all of us, she made her fair share of human mistakes, which fade in comparison to her monumental sacrifice and contribution. Amna
Ally was PNCR in every way; she breathed and talked PNCR. She epitomized dedication, commitment, resilience, sacrifice, andloyaltytoanorganization.Her service was unbroken, and her commitment unswerving. I don't know of any time when she took a “time-out”fromthePNCRorwent on an invented “sabbatical leave” from the party She was there throughthegoodandbadtimesand represented that steadiness in the party Manycame,left,ortooktime out, butAmnaAlly was there, and that must mean something to the PNCR and its membership. Her consistency throughout all those years, beginning in her youth, is a sign of tremendous dedication. This was what a party stalwart looks like! Her work in the PNCR helped to shape the party in many ways,andforthat,thepartymustbe grateful. I was fortunate to have knownher Shewasastrongleader! AmnaAllyhasservedherparty and country well; her name is etchedinthehistoryandthenation. Sheservedtothebestofherability, and she worked tirelessly for the good of a better party and country Mayhersoulnowfindeternalrest. Sincere condolences to her family, manyfriends,andthePNCR.Sleep well, Comrade, Sleep well! You havebeeninthegame,playedyour role,doneyourpart,andhavenow movedoffthestage!Intheend,you didityourway!
Sincerely,
LurleneNestor
BLUNT BLUNT BLUNT BLUNT
Burnoutoverblackouts
Guyanese are suffering from burnout, which comes from too much emotional and psychological stress.
Accusatory fingers are rightly pointed at the GPL Inc., and its main output, which takes the form of too many blackouts.
The PPPC Government is due its full share of criticisms, given its cluelessness and its crooked speech. Whenever the government presents a cover story as to the reason for blackouts, angry citizens shake their heads in disbelief, so distrusted it has become.
Not just on electricity, but on most of the major developments in Guyana. Both GPL and the PPPC Government come in for their share of blows.
The reputations of both have never been lower, with the cries for an improved supply of electricity rising higher all the time.
Govt's ‘political gangsterism’ preventing Guyanese from speaking out
KaieteurNewspublisher and local activist, Glenn
Lall, believes many distinguished Guyanese and businessesarefullyawareof the ongoing economic and social injustices in the country, but are afraid to speak out for fear of victimisation.
A local businessman himself, Lall said Friday, thatthegovernmenthasbeen practicing 'political gangsterism'againstpersons who condemn its actions in office.
“They all see it, every single one of them. They read the headlines. They know the numbers. They knowexactlywhoiswalking away with riches or wealth. But they stay silent. Not because they don't care, but because they are afraid Afraid of what happens whenyouspeakthetruthina country that makes you the enemyofthoseinpower.”
According to Lall, former President and now
Vice President, Bharat Jagdeo, has over the years cultivated a “dangerous, wicked, vindictive and political culture throughout his presidency, where, if anyonedaresspeakout,they w o u l d b e h e a v i l y persecuted.
“They won't challenge the facts. They won't debate your points. Instead, they will try to destroy you and everyone around. They will try to destroy your will through intimidation. They willtrytodestroyyourname and reputation though slanders. They will try to destroy your right to earn a living by refusing or withholding a job or contract. when those fail, theywilltrytodestroyyou!” hestated.
The Kaieteur News publisher said the government will even use state agencies like the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), and
KaieteurNewsPublisher,
theSpecialOrganisedCrime Unit (SOCU) to audit persons' business, target their employees, threaten their license, reduce and remove state ads from a media house, and engage in smear campaigns. He said this is the kind of 'political gangsterism' they unleash
against persons for standing upandspeakingthetruth. He said while many business persons are educated, successful, and well-informed, they choose to remain silent. According to him, there are others who remain silent out of natural fear, while others remain
Jagdeo warns against polarising country over Adriana's death
Whilst reaffirming his government's commitment toathoroughandtransparent investigation, Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo condemnedactionswhichhe believes are a clear attempt todividethecountryoverthe deathof11-year-oldAdriana Younge.
He made the remarks during his weekly press conference onThursday last at Freedom House. In an incident that shook the country, Younge was found deadinapool.PresidentDr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has since indicated that there will be an extensive review ofalleventssurroundingthe child's death. Describing it as outrageous and disgusting,Jagdeocautioned against bringing dishonour to Younge's name by using herdeathtostirupstrifeand racialdivision.
“Look at the callous
and disgusting attempt to use this child's death to mobilise people for a political purpose or to polarise our people along ethnic country. This is a disgusting attempt by the opposition,”hesaid.
The vice president blamed the opposition for contributing to this attempt at polarisation, asserting his viewthatthiswastheironly strategy to secure support in the upcoming elections, the Department of Public Informationreported.
“They cannot go to the e l e c t o r a t e w i t h achievements or plans. They're not going to talk aboutjobsforourpeoplein the future or whether you would own a car or a house…theycan'tcompete on that. This is the only way of getting people to vote for them, going back to the full racism,” he
explained.
Dr Jagdeo posited that the government has demonstrated its focus on getting to the bottom of the child's death and ensuring that anyone maliciously involved faces the full brunt ofthelaw
“Weallwereconcerned about it as a country…no other child or any other d e a t h h a s b e e n investigated in this manner, like in the autopsy,everinthehistory of the country because we wantedtogettothetruth,” thegeneralsecretarynoted.
Earlier today, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that experienced investigator Leonard McCoshen, who spent considerable years as a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP),willbeassistingin the ongoing investigation.
VicePresident, Bharrat Jagdeo
McCoshenhasover30years
of experience as an investigator, spending 20 of those years attached to the Serious Crimes Branch (SCB) in the Major Crimes UnitoftheRCMP Younge's cause of death was given as drowning, according to the autopsy performed by three international pathologists
TheGPFhasmaintainedthat the child's death will be t h o r o u g h l y a n d c o m p r e h e n s i v e l y investigated.
- Glenn Lall
quiet over fear of having their family members, who they depend on for their daily survival, lose their governmentjobs.
“So, they all choose survivaloversacrifice. And while I can understand their fear, I cannot join them. Becausethecostofsilencein Guyana today with this wealth is too much,” Lall stated.
Lall's comments were in response to a question by a citizen,whoaskedwhylocal
b
government's squandering of the country's oil wealth, whilecitizensremainpoor
Referencewasmadetoa Canadian company's application for some 4 3 million ounces of gold, where, at today's price is worth some US $12 billion. Lall said just like the oil, there is complete silence from politicians on how Guyanesewillbenefit.
“No press conferences. No explanation No consultation. The sellout is never announced. It always happens quietly behind closed doors, with handshakes, contracts, and silence.
And unless the few like myself blow the whistle, unless we shout from the rooftop, we all will wake up one day to find that our country was once rich, but our people are poor We were blessed—but we are left begging. We were the owners but we were treatedlikethefarmworkers inourownlandwithourown wealth.WeownoverUS$50 billion in estimated gold reserves so far, and
Guyanese can't get 50 seconds, or 50 words out of AliorJagdeo”.
Last week, Canadian mining firm G Mining Ventures Corp. (GMIN) has officially started the process to secure a mining licence foritsOkoWestgoldproject in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), a development expected to unlock 4 3 million ounces of gold reserves.
The move was disclosed in the company's recently published feasibility study results, which show that the project is poised to deliver strong financial returns, thanks to low production costs.TheOkoWestproject, fully owned by GMIN, is positioned to become the next major phase of growth forthecompany
Alongside the mining licence application, GMIN hasalsobegunseekingother critical permits needed to bringtheprojecttofull-scale operation These include approvals for port operations, fuel use and storage, as well as the installation of transmission and telecommunications towers.
“SoAskyourselfpeople, whatuntappedpotentialyou hearing about from Jagdeo? From Ali? From Norton? From Nigel? What potential them boasting about for us, the true owners of all that pure gold and diamond because while these foreign investorsflyingintoGuyana in private jets, getting red carpettreatmentandsipping wine at the Marriott, them companies walking out with tones of gold and crates of diamonds”
Alliance For Change expresses condolences on the Passing of Former Toshao Glen Lewis Devair
The Alliance For
Change (AFC) expresses profound sorrow at the untimely passing of Mr Glen Lewis Devair, former Toshao of Orealla/Siparuta Village. Mr Devair was a dedicated leader who served his community with unwavering commitment andintegrity His recent act of kindness, personally captaining our team back from Orealla Village last Saturday, exemplifies the selfless spirit he consistentlydemonstrated.
His leadership and compassion have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowinghim.
Mr Devair'spassingisa significant loss to the O r e a l l a / S i p a r u t a community and to Guyana asawhole.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends,andtheresidentsof Orealla/Siparutaduringthis difficult time May his legacy of service and dedication continue to inspireusall.
Glenn Lall
PPP bent on hammering all types of Guyanese expression to its liking
Medical Council to decide todayon T&T pathologist’s application to examine Adriana’s body
The Medical Council of Guyanaisscheduledtomeet today, to decide on the application made by Trinidadian pathologist, Dr Hubert Daisley, to practice medicineinGuyana.
The family of 11-yearold Adriana Younge had formally requested an independent review of the footage of the post-mortem examination (PME), which was conducted at the GeorgetownPublicHospital Corporation (GPHC) on April 28. The family had written the medical council seeking permission for Dr Daisley,arenownedforensic pathologist, to participate in theprocess.
“My understanding is thatanapplicationwasmade to the medical board for Mr Daisley to be accepted to examine, or to practice medicine, whether for that limitedperiodornot,ortobe able to review the body,” family lawyer, Dr Dexter Todd, told Kaieteur News Friday
“We've heard that the medical board will meet on the 12th of May When that happens, we hope that Dr Daisley,ashehasdoneinthe past, will be given the requisite permission to review the body,” Dr Todd stated.
He said if permission is not granted, the family will consider alternative options, includingflyingthebodyout of Guyana for examination by two U S based pathologists.
“If there are any difficulties presented, where they are not given the requisite permission to reviewthisbodyonbehalfof the family… because this is whatthefamilywants…the family will consider their support to have the body flownout,”Dr Toddadded. Dr Todd made it clear thatbeforeasecondautopsy couldbeconducted,areview of the footage of the first autopsy will be done. He explained that Dr Daisely, alongwithotherpathologists from the Caribbean and
United States will first meet on Zoom to review the footage.
“They would like to be able to be present on Zoom andwalkthroughtheprocess with him So, they are looking at what was done, becausetheymaynotneedto do back everything, a complete dissection. They may not need to,” Dr Todd said.
Headded,“Buttheywill say what is it that they need to check for, because there are some specific things in relation to how the body floated. In relation to how the body was presented, and in relation to the marks that remainoncertainpartsofthe body, which has raised concerns to them, and that they are seeing, it requires a
second eye, to be sure, and thatiswhattheyarelooking at.So,theywillsee.”
Adriana's lifeless body was discovered onApril 24, by her father, Subryan Younge, in the swimming pool of the popular Double Day hotel, at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, some 20 hours after she was reported missing during a family swimmingtripthere.
The fist post-mortem examination concluded that Adriana died by drowning. Pathologists could not determine the time of death, and a toxicology report is still pending. The PME was conducted by governmentappointed Barbadian pathologist Dr Shubhakar KarraPaul.Adriana'sfamily had also requested Dr Gary L. Collins, Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Delaware, to observe the autopsy Dr Glenn A Rudner of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, also observedtheautopsy
Adriana's mother, Amecia Simon, had previously expressed hope that Dr Daisley would be able to offer insight into her daughter's death by reviewingthePMEfootage.
“I hope so,” she said when asked by Kaieteur News whether she wanted
dispels any contention that therewascottonwoolinher nose);
4. The skin changes observed were from prolonged immersion with 'washerwoman' changes noted on bilateral hands and soles (washerwoman changes are also consistent incasesofdrowning);
5. Theskinwasfound to be intact and free from antemo
Trinidadian pathologist
Dr. Hubert Daisley
the Trinidadian pathologist toreviewtheautopsy
Last Tuesday, some two weeks after the PME, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) releasedwhattheysaidwere somepreliminaryfindings.
The police in a sevenpoint statement highlighted thefollowing:
1.Therewasnoevidence of sexual assault (her external genitalia were examined and found unremarkable with her hymenintact);
2.Hersofttissuesaswell as skeletal structure were freeoftraumaticinjury;
3. There was a residual cone of foam identified within her nostrils and oral cavity, which is often observed in cases of drowning (this finding
m injuries; (Meaning that she did not receive any injuries to her bodypriortoherdeath);
6. The sphenoid sinus was found to have approximately 1ml of liquid (this is the air space located in the brain consistent with drowning);
7. Liquid also found in the lungs of the deceased, which is consistent with drowning.
TheGPFremindedthata c o m p r e h e n s i v e toxicological study of the bloodandgastriccontentsis being conducted by the National Medical Services (NMS) Laboratories in the United States. Additionally, tissue specimens are undergoing histological analysis by Mount Sinai's board-certified forensic and diagnostic pathologists in the United States, according toPolice.
7 GPHC doctors for health personnel training in China
The Ministry of Health announced on Friday that seven doctors from the GeorgetownPublicHospital Corporation (GPHC) will undergo a six-month health
personnel training programmeinChina.
According to a release from the ministry, the training will be executed through a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Jiangsu Commission of Health, People'sRepublicofChina.
T h e s i x - m o n t h
programme will see
G u y a n e s e d o c t o r s undergoing three months of theoretical training locally, followedbythreemonthsof practical, hands-on sessions inChina.
“Theinitiativeispartofa bilateral effort to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery in Guyana,” the ministryshared.
Speaking at the official launch of the programme, held at the Hospital's research centre, Minister of
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony (centre), and GPHC's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Robbie Rambarran (3rd from right), alongside officials of the Health Ministry, the GPHC and Jiangsu Commission of Health.
Health, Dr Frank Anthony, said the training is “high level” and essential for building capacity within the localhealthsystem. “We are very pleased with this programme because we've already seen positive outcomes from the first batch of participants. The training in China is not only technically advanced, but also takes place in a
modern, technology-driven environment that focuses on improvingpatientcare.”
Upon their return, the medical professionals will be expected to become leaders in their respective fields and help raise the standard of care in their departments.
Presentatthelaunchwas GPHC's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Robbie
Rambarran, who welcomed the initiative, noting it is significant for the nation's healthsector
“Today marks another important milestone for our hospitalandourcountry We remain committed to excellence in ca
education, and research Continuous training is crucial for improving health
programme will empower our professionals with cutting-edge skills and a globaloutlook,”hesaid.
The ministry said the partnership signals ongoing effortsbythegovernmentto expand medical expertise and strengthen healthcare infrastructure through internationalcooperation.
This newspaper had reported that Minister
Anthony,atthelaunchofthe
Universal Healthcare Voucher in March, said that Guyana has been partnering with a number of countries a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l organisations to strengthen the country's healthcare system.
He noted that this is part of President Irfaan Ali's vision of building a worldclass healthcare system for allcitizens.
“So these partnerships are going to help us to grow andwhenthePresidenttalks about developing a worldclass healthcare system we recognize that if we are going to move this system forward, if we are going to develop it to that level, then wearegoingtoneedpartners that have demonstrated excellence in healthcare across the world, and we have been seeking out the best partners to make sure thatwecanbringtheminand worksothatwecandevelop our skills,” he said at the time.
Litigants press Court
of Appeal for decision on unlimited oil spill protection from ExxonMobil
Two years ago, High Court Judge, Justice Sandil Kissoon in a landmark
ruling, ordered the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to secure an unlimited guarantee from ExxonMobil to cover the costs associated with an oil spill.
The ruling, later appealed by the regulator, is yet to reach a conclusion, with litigants Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte now urging the Court of Appealtourgentlysetadate
to hear the various applications made by their lawyers.
In a statement to the media on Sunday, Collins and Whyte explained that about 11 letters were issued to the registrar of the Court
ofAppeal, requesting a date for their applications to be heardurgently Theysaidno response has been received.
“Professional courtesy requires the registrar to respond but there has been silence from the Court of Appeal These ongoing
delays and discourtesy are further blots on the administrationofjusticeand the judiciary's reputation,” thelitigantssaid.
On March 11, 2025, lawyers for the duo filed a summons for directions for hearing the applications and submitted a proposed timetable However, no responsewasagainreceived.
The litigants raised concern over the fact that John Hess had publicly claimedthatPresidentIrfaan Ali assured him that a stay would be granted. “It is deeply troubling that there has been no denial from PresidentAli,noexplanation from the government's principal legal adviser, the Attorney-General, and no public statement from the
Chancellor of the Judiciary in response to this reported allegation which brings the Court of Appeal into disrepute The people of Guyanaareentitledtoknow whether there is political interference of any part of thejudiciaryandtoinsistthat
itisstopped.”
Collins and Whyte reasonedthatthisisajudicial review case. They said it is well known that cases get priority over all other matters before a court.They arguedthatdelaysinjudicial reviewcasesharmtheruleof law,bringtheadministration ofjusticeintodisrepute,and diminish public respect for thejudiciary
The litigants explained, “WehavesaidtotheCourtof Appealinaffidavitevidence, that the potential harm to Guyanacannotbeoverstated andthatGuyanacouldbeleft with liability for trillions of Guyana dollars, while ExxonMobil corporation is off the hook because of the staygrantedbyJusticeRishi Persaud.”
With Exxon now operating above the limits setinEnvironmentalImpact Assessmentsforitsprojects, they believe the danger is nowgreater
Consequently, the citizenspointedout,“aslong as the Court of Appeal continues their delay, Guyana'seconomicinterests areatrisk.”
Following Justice Kisson's ruling on May 3, 2023,JusticeofAppealRishi Persaud granted a stay for Exxontoproducetheparent company guarantee and instead ordered the oil company to lodge a guarantee for US$2billion onJune8,2023.
On July 5, 2023, the lawyers filed an application for the Court of Appeal to vary or discharge the stay grantedbytheAppealCourt, which has still not set a date toheartheapplication.
Another application was made on November 1, 2023 for the EPA and Exxon to produce the guarantee, which the court ruled on January 19, 2024 that it had no jurisdiction to order the document'srelease.
On February 22, 2024, the legal team filed another application to the Court of Appeal against Justice Persaud'sdecision;however, theCourtofAppealisyetto setadateforthatapplication.
Subsequently, three documentsfromExxonwere published in the Official Gazette from Exxon and its co-venturers Hess and CNOOC to satisfy the condition of the stay On October 28, 2024, the lawyers filed a separate application for the Court of Appeal to rule that Exxon had not complied with the conditions of the stay and therefore the stay was no longer valid.Adate was not set for that application to be heardeither
Withseveralapplications still pending, the litigants highlighted the ruling by Justice Kissoon that a derelict Environmental Protection Agency has placedthepeopleofGuyana in“gravepotentialdangerof calamitous disaster” and turned a blind eye to Exxon Guyana's failure to provide an unlimited uncapped parentcompanyguaranteeas r e q u i r e d b y i t s environmentalpermit.
They reasoned, “In such a serious situation, why has theCourtofAppealfailedto hear our applications…we once again, respectfully and publicly, ask the Court of Appeal to put an end to this unacceptable and unjust delay and decide our applications.”
The litigants said they havenowreachedthetotally unsatisfactory position where any decision is better than no decision. “If the CourtofAppealrulesagainst us,sobeit,wewillatleastbe able to proceed to the Caribbean Court of Justice for a final decision in a matter of unprecedented public interest,” they concluded.
Frederick Collins
Godfrey Whyte
Frontera prepared to take legal action to assert “right” over Corentyne Block- CEO
- if Govt. refuses to amicably settle matter
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Canadian oil company Frontera, Orlando Cabrales, said his company is prepared to assert legal rights, should Guyana's Government fail to find a “mutua
solution with joint venture (JV) partners, CGX Energy Inc. and Frontera Energy Corporation, over the CorentyneBlock.
During Frontera's firstquarter earnings call on Friday,Cabralessaidthaton March 13, 2025, the JV announced the receipt of a communication from the Government of Guyana, indicatingthatthePetroleum Prospecting License (PPL) and Petroleum Agreement ended, and that it was terminating the Petroleum Agreement and cancelling thePPL.
Amna Ally to be laid to rest on Tuesday
Former government minister,AmnaAllywillbe laidtorestonTuesday,May 13,herfamilysaidSunday
Accordingtotherelease, a night of reflection will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 19:00h at her residence, 78 Brickdam, Georgetown.
On Tuesday, viewing of the body will take place at herresidencefrom11:00hto 12:30h,followedbyanother viewing and Janazah at the C e n t r a l I s l a m i c Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) from 13:00h to 13:25h Janazah (funeral prayer)willbeheldatCIOG beginningat13:30h.
The funeral procession will depart CIOG at 13:40h for final interment at De EdwardVillage,WestCoast
Berbice A book of condolence will be opened for signing by members of the public at Ally's residence, beginning from 12:00honMonday,May12, 2025.
The family has expressed sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time and invites all who wish to pay respect to join in honouring Ally's legacy Ally, who served as Minister of Social Protection under the A Partnership for National Unity + the Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government, passed away Saturday,attheGeorgetown PublicHospitalCorporation (GPHC) The PCNR, in a
G
outlinedthatanylicencewill cease to be effective on March 10, 2025, unless representations made by CGX and Frontera are “favourably considered.” It was also stated that the government was open to good-faith negotiations
timeframe.
In their March 26 response, Frontera and its
Petroleum International Holding B.V and Frontera Energy Guyana Holding Ltd.,sentanoticeofintentto the Guyanese government. The JV partners alleged breaches of the United Kingdom–GuyanaBilateral InvestmentTreaty(BIT)and the Guyana Investment Act b
FormerGovernment Minister, Amna Ally
statement, Saturday, expressed deep sadness at the passing of its former GeneralSecretary The party described Ally as a dedicated and former long-standing memberoftheparty,whose unwavering commitment to the ideals of PNCR and her country left an indelible mark on the country's history
The PNCR said Ally's service to her country was multifaceted as she was a committed educator, a valued member of the YoungSocialistsMovement (YSM), and served in variouscapacitieswithinthe party Her leadership and dedicationextendedbeyond party activities, as she served as a Member of Parliament and held the position of Minister in the Government under the APNU/AFC administration from 2015 to 2020, the PNCRstated.
Frontera-CGX platform located on the Corentyne Block
Corentyneblock.”
To this end, he stated, “shouldthepartiesnotreach a mutually agreeable solution, the joint venture anditsotherstakeholdersare preparedtoasserttheirlegal rights.”
publicationhadreportedthat thenoticeofintentinitiateda three-month period for
negotiations between the partiestoresolvethedispute amicably
Cabrales reiterated, “the JV remains firmly of the view that its interest in, and the PPL for, the Corentyne blockremaininplaceandin goodstanding,andcontinues to invite the Government to amicably resolve the issues affecting the Joint Venture's i
Further,itwasstatedthat the JV looks forwards to “expeditiously” resolving thematterandcontinuingits multi-year efforts and investments to realise value of the Corentyne Block for, “the people of Guyana and its shareholders from the Corentyneblock.”
Frontera's comments came a day after Guyana's Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo said that the CGXFrontera property will be part of the next oil block auction.
Back in March, the government officially booted the JV from the Corentyne Block, located offshoreGuyana. However, despite the government's position, CGX and Frontera maintain that their interests in the Corentyne Block remainvalid.
In early February, CGX and Frontera disclosed that the government issued a 30day notice of its intention to canceltheirlicence.
For their part, the governmenttoldthepartners thatintheirview,thereareno reasonable grounds to grant an extension to CGX and Frontera for their exploration and appraisal obligations.
In January, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram
Bharrat,saidthegovernment could not legally extend CGX and Frontera's exploration licence for the Corentyne Block, and as a result, could do nothing to assistthejointventure. Minister Bharrat had statedthatthejointventure's licence, along with an extension previously granted,hadcometoanend. Consequently,theCorentyne Block now reverts to state control. He said, “With regardstoCGX,theposition remainsthesame.There'sno change to position, with regardstohowwedealingor handlingtheCGXmatter…” Minister Bharrat stated that the government has applied the same system to all companies in similar situations.
Partnership between Guyana, EU remains strong – Pres. Ali
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has highlighted that the robust partnership between Guyana and the European Union (EU) remainsstrongandenduring, built on shared values, mutual respect and a history ofconstructivecooperation.
The president said that the approach taken, by the PPP/C Administration and Ambassador René Van Nes of the EU Delegation to Guyana, is primarily
responsible for the constructive and respectful relationshipthatGuyanaand theEUhaveenjoyedoverthe past three years. He added that this approach was to build partnerships, enhance
t r u s t , a n d c r e a t e opportunities, which are the features of the partnership thatGuyanaandtheEUhave beenabletodevelop.
Thepresidentmadethese remarks during the Europe DayReceptionhostedbythe Delegation of the European Union in Guyana on Friday night He said that the currentsituationnecessitates a deeper level of economic collaboration between Guyana and the EU “However, in a global order increasingly threatened by economic protectionism and unilateralism, it is imperative that both sides engage in meaningful d i a l o g u e a i m e d a t recalibrating their relations to better address current and emerging challenges. Such engagement will help ensure that this vital partnership remains responsive and mutually beneficial in the face of shifting global dynamics,” thepresidentnoted.
President Ali conveyed
G u y a n a ' s s i n c e r e appreciation for the
E u r o p e a n U n i o n ' s unwavering support of its border controversy with Venezuela The EU's steadfast advocacy for the principles of international law,reinforcedbytherecent declaration of the International Court of Justice, affirms Guyana's long-held belief that differences must be handled through peaceful legal channels, rather than unilateral acts that threaten regionalstability
The European Union emerged as an international political and economic organisation founded on core values, including democracy, rule of law, freedom, equality and respect for human rights.
These principles extend beyond EU boundaries, creating meaningful partnerships with various nations worldwide, includingGuyana. He continued, “As we navigatethistransformative period in Guyana's history, marked with unprecedented economic growth and development opportunities, we remain steadfast in our commitment to these principles.Theruleoflawis not merely an abstract concept, but as a bedrock upon which we are building our future. It guides our governance, our resource management, and our vision for an inclusive society where prosperity is sharedbyallGuyanese.”
PresidentAlipointedout that the enduring friendship betweenGuyanaandtheEU datesbacktothesignatureof theforestconventionandthe subsequent Georgetown Agreement in 1975 which established the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)GroupofStates.
Since then, the collaboration between Guyana and the EU has advanced across many sectors including trade and investment, grant and aid assistance, climate change, forestry, energy and information,communication andtechnology
Furthermore, President Ali alluded to several notable developments that occurred in 2024, which exemplify Guyana and the EU's commitment to maintain, strengthen and involvetheirpartnership.
Assuch,Guyanabecame a signatory to the Samoa Agreement, joined the EULAC Digital Alliance, the announcement of KLM Royal Dutch Airline, which willcommencedirectflights between Guyana and Amsterdam in June 2025, processing the Schengen visasinGuyanaandopening the French Embassy in Georgetownin2025.
From the EU's early role as a development agency that made significant contributions to Guyana's infrastructure to its current engagement through the G l o b a l G a t e w a y programme, President Ali said that their partnership has changed significantly overthepast53years.
“We have evolved into true partners confronting common challenges. This revolution is exemplified by Guyana'sdeepappreciation
for the EU's consistent support through grants and aid,investmentandtraining and capacity building, all of which have significantly contributed to the country's national development,” he highlighted.
President Ali said that Guyana is positively contributing to Europe's energy security Every year, theEUcontinuestobeoneof Guyana's largest trading partners,which is facilitated
t h r o u g h t h e E UCARIFORUM and the EU Economic Partnership Agreement in 2024 He pointed out that the EU imports from Guyana were valued at US$9.7 billion. More importantly, since the discovery of oil, there has been an increasing demand forGuyana'scrude,withthat being the top export to the EU.
In 2024, 66% of Guyana's crude was exported to Europe. In the area of climate change, Guyana commends the EU's leadership. Due to the EU's partnership with Guyana, this commitment has materialised through its
understanding (MoU) and a voluntary partnership
toast to the strong friendship between Guyana and the European Union
agreement, aimed at promotingsustainableforest management and combating illegallogging.LiketheEU's ambitious target to reduce greenhousegasemissionsby 55% below 1990 levels by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, Guyana is in a net carbon sink, he stated.
“ T h e s h a r e d commitment between the EU and Guyana has f o s t e r e d a c t i v e collaboration as we work together towards these critical environmental goals. You have certainly fulfilled the bold promises you made three years ago… These are all testament to our dedication and vision forourpartnership”hesaid.
As Guyana prepares for national elections this year, President Ali said, “The EuropeanUnionhasbeena steadfast defender of democracy Guyana deeply values the EU's principled support for democratic governance, transparency and the rule of law We look forward to welcoming an EU Election Observation Mission to our upcoming elections and to continuing our collaboration in upholding democratic standards that serve the interestsofallGuyanese.”
HeaddedthattheEUand Guyana have been working on an elaborate trade programme to build Guyana's capacity to access amorediversifiedmarketin
Europe. He added, “We are very confident that with the type of infrastructure investment that we are putting in place for the agricultural expansion, especially in products like coconut, coconut water and the byproducts this also would be an important area for the trade expansion.” SeniorMinisterintheOffice of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service Dr Ashni Singh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd, Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Guyana René Van Nes, members of the diplomatic community were also present.(DPI)
High-tech sewage plant 'coming' with climate
(BARBADOS TODAY)
The gov
nt is preparing to break ground on a state-of-the-art South Coast sewage treatment plant, funde
internationally recognised debt-for-climate swap that will channel millions into waterinfrastructurewithout increasingthenationaldebt, t
announcedonFriday Spea
reopening of the Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary, PrimeMinisterMiaMottley confirmed that the deal — hailedasLatinAmericaand the Caribbean's most innovative climate finance transaction — will generate US$8m (BDS$16m) annually for five years for the Barbados Wa
Authority, without adding a penny to the country's debt burden.
“We will get that packageontheSouthCoast
PrimeMinister, Mia Mottley
sewage treatment plant and the surplus to the Water Authority without adding a single cent to Barbados's debt.
It is the equivalent of everybody in here getting a second house or first house without having to add a single cent to their debt,” Mottleysaid.
The new plant will treat wastewater to the tertiary levelandprovidereclaimed water for agriculture and aquifer replenishment
“That treated water would be allowed to replenish our aquifersandwillbeusedas well to carry water to St Philip so that irrigation for certain types of agriculture
can be undertaken to enhance our food security,” shesaid.
Mottley tied the announcement to the broader symbolism of the Graeme Hall reopening, positioning it as proof that Barbados is not only committed to biodiversity but is actively delivering climate solutions. “We in this country are prepared to walk the walk and not just talk the talk,” she said. The financingmodelbuildsona 2021 blue bond and debtfor-nature swap structure facilitated with The Nature Conservancy and the InterAmerican Development Bank.Mottleysaidasimilar structure will help finance
the newly proposed B a r b a d o s N a t u r e Conservancy Trust, which will manage national green spaces through local and international partnerships (SZB)
President Irfaan Ali joined with the Head of the EU Delegation to Guyana René Van Nes in
Israel kills 13, including children, amid dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza
(ALJAZEERA) The Israeli military has killed at least 13 Palestinians, including several children and women, in Gaza as it continues to starve the besiegedenclave.
Amongthevictimssince dawn on Sunday were three Palestinianskilledinadrone strike on a vehicle and two killed in a bombing near residential towers located west of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.Another two people were killed in artilleryshellingofahomein the Zeitoun neighbourhood of Gaza City in the north whilethebodyofamanwas recovered near the Bureij refugeecampincentralGaza after Israeli warplanes bombed the area a day earlier The Israeli military also attacked the Islamic University building in Khan Younis.Thelatestkillingsin t h e d a i l y I s r a e l i bombardment of Gaza came as the enclave has seen no food,water,medicineorfuel entertheterritoryfor70days duetoIsrael'sblockade.
The2.3millionresidents of Gaza are surviving on fast-dwindling supplies and charitykitchens,whichhave beengraduallyforcedtoshut downastheyrunoutoffood and hunger spreads The
United Nations agency for P
(UNRWA) warned on Sunday that the longer the blockade continues, the more irreversible harm is being done to Palestinians.
“UNRWA has thousands of trucksreadytoenterandour teams in Gaza are ready to scale up the delivery,” the organisation said Hamas said in a statement on Sunday that Israel is committing a “complex crime”.
Israel's security cabinet this month approved a plan to fully occupy the Gaza Stripandforceanothermass d i s p l a c e m e n t o f Palestinians. Israel has also proposed taking over any future humanitarian aid distribution,whichwould,it said, involve creating designated military zones.
The Humanitarian Country Team, a forum that includes UN agencies, warned that the plan is dangerous and would “contravene fundamental humanitarian principles and appears designedtoreinforcecontrol over life-sustaining items as apressuretactic–aspartofa militarystrategy”.
Israeli Foreign Minister GideonSaarsaidonSunday that the country would
acceptanewUSmechanism that would start delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza.A group of American security contractors, former military officers and humanitarian aid officials is proposing to take over the distribution of food and other supplies in Gaza based on plans similar to those designed by Israel. The plan has been criticised forbypassingtheUNandaid groups with expertise in aid delivery and creating only four distribution points that would force a large number of Palestinians to travel to
southernGaza.
According to the latest figuresbyGaza'sMinistryof Health on Sunday, at least 52,829 Palestinians have been confirmed killed and 119,554 wounded by Israeli military attacks since the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attacks on southern Israel, which killed an estimated 1,139 people and resulted in more than 200 people taken captiveintoGaza.
PopeLeoXIVcalledfor an immediate ceasefire, entry of humanitarian aid and release of all those held
in Gaza during his first Sunday blessing since his electionaspontiff.
Israel to pay soldiers morebeforeGazaexpansion
The Israeli military planned to intensify its ground occupation of Gaza on Sunday, pulling the Paratroopers Brigade back fromitsincursionsintoSyria to be redeployed to Gaza.
The paratroopers have been operating in the occupied Golan Heights and inside Syria since the fall of PresidentBasharal-Assadin December Israel withdrew
the Nahal Brigade from the occupiedWestBank–which has also been under assault for months – in its intended and self-proclaimed push to “conquer”Gaza.
But thousands of Israeli reservists and other members of the Israeli military and security agencies, along with thousands of Israelis demonstrating in the streets, have been callingfor an end to the war to bring back all captives.
To address the growing dissatisfaction among so
li government on Sunday approved a “comprehensive benefit plan” for reservists worthabout3billionshekels ($838m) that is slated to includeaseriesofeconomic and social benefits The army welcomed the plan approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sayinginastatementthatitis a reflection of soldiers' “exceptional contribution” toIsraelisociety Thiscomes as United States President Donald Trump, who has reportedly had some differences with Netanyahu in recent weeks over the Gazawarandhowtoengage with Iran, will launch a tour oftheMiddleEastthisweek.
Top US officials emerge from China trade talks touting 'substantial progress’ and ‘deal’
(CNN)
Top US officials involved in highleveltradenegotiationswith China emerged from two days of talks touting “substantial progress” and appearing to confirm that a deal between the two countries had been reached, which could have massive implications for the global economy
“I'm happy to report that we've made substantial progressbetweentheUnited States and China in the very important trade talks,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a brief statementSundayinGeneva, Switzerland,wherethetalks were held, calling the negotiations“productive.”
USTradeRepresentative Jamieson Greer indicated that an agreement had been reached Sunday, after President Donald Trump imposed sweeping 145% tariffs on most Chinese goods last month China retaliated with 125% on US goods.
“The president declared a national emergency and imposed tariffs, and we're confident that the deal we struck with our Chinese partners will help us to resolve work toward resolving that national emergency,”Greersaid. Headded,“It'simportant to understand how quickly we were able to come to agreement, which reflects that perhaps the differences were not so large as maybe thought.”
CNN has asked the Treasury Department for clarification on the deal, though Bessent said that details will be shared on Monday morning. Ahead of t h e t a l k s , Tr u m p administration officials downplayed expectations thatadealwouldbereached thisweekend,characterizing the meetings as a good first step. Bessent had suggested earlierthisweekthathisgoal was de-escalation of
thawing US-China trade relations. The current 145% tariffratehassentshipments from China into the United States plunging by 60%, according to Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport, a logistics and freight forwarding broker
Even reducing that tariff ratebyhalfstillmightnotbe enough to change trade
US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, left, and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, right speak to the press after the second day of a bilateral meeting between the United States and China, in Geneva, Switzerland, Sunday, May 11, 2025
tensionsastheUSandChina have been at a virtual stalemate since Trump imposedhistariffpolicy
“These are very tough negotiators,” Greer said of his Chinese counterparts, saying the group “worked very diligently” and the last two days were “very constructive.” Bessent said he and Greer, who did not take questions from the press, have briefed Trump,
who he described as “fully informed.”
Trump indicated ahead of the talks that he was willingtolowerthetariffrate onChinato80%,sayingina post to social media that it was “up to Scott B , ” referring to Bessent. The White House later clarified that China also needed to make concessions The weekend talks marked a significant step toward
levels significantly
Economistshavesaid50%is the make-or-break threshold for the return of somewhat normalbusinessbetweenthe two countries The combination of fewer goods coming in and increased costs on imports that do arrive has already started pushing up prices for Americans. Goldman Sachs analystssaidThursdaythata key measure of inflation would effectively double to 4% by year end because of Trump'stradewar And with ships carrying goodsunderthe145%tariffs nowcomingintoport,atrade
deal wouldn't lower prices immediately To say Americansdependonawide range of Chinese goods understates how pervasive those goods have become in all our lives Footwear, clothes, appliances, microchips, baby goods, toys, sports equipment, office machine parts and much more all pour into the United States from China in staggeringnumbers. But now those imports are decreasing. Imports into the United States during the second half of 2025 are expected to fall at least 20% year over year, according to the National Retail Federation.Thedeclinefrom China will be even starker: JPMorgan expects a 75% to 80% drop in imports from there. The trade war has already affected the US economy.The nation's gross domestic product, the broadest measure of the US economy,showedAmerica's (Continueonpage18)
APalestinian child mourns at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza on May 11, 2025, during a funeral of a Palestinian killed in Israeli strikes [Hatem Khaled/Reuters]
Pope Leo appeals for no more war in first Sunday address
(BBC NEWS) Pope Leo XIV appealed for "no more war" in a message to world powers during his first Sunday address at the Vatican.
Reflecting on current conflicts,thenewlyselected pontiff called for a "lasting peace"inthewarinUkraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and welcomed Saturday's agreement to end recent hostilitiesbetweenIndiaand Pakistan. He said he was "deeply hurt" by events in Gaza, expressed hope for a "lasting accord" between India and Pakistan, and wishedfora"authentic,true and lasting peace" in Ukraine.
ThePopealsorecitedthe Regina Caeli prayer, in honouroftheVirginMary,to the crowd in St Peter's Square Pope Leo was chosen as the new leader of the Catholic Church on
Thursday, following a twodayconclaveinVaticanCity and the death of his predecessor,PopeFrancis.
OnSaturday,hevisiteda shrine outside Rome and then prayed before Francis' tomb inside the basilica of SantaMariaMaggiore.Pope Leo will be formally inaugurated at a mass in St Peter's Square next week on 18 May Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica, he said: "The immense tragedy of the SecondWorldWarended80 years ago now we're facing the tragedy of a third worldwarinpieces."Iwould also like to address the powerful people of the world,repeatingthealwayscurrentcall:'nomorewar'."
Thepontiffcontinued:"I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people. "May whateverispossiblebedone
to reach an authentic, true and lasting peace as quickly as possible. May all the prisoners be freed May children return to their families. "And I am deeply hurtbywhatishappeningin the Gaza Strip. "May a ceasefire immediately come i n t o e f f e c t M a y humanitarianaidbeallowed into the civilian population and may all hostages be freed."
Hewenton:"Iwashappy tohearontheotherhandthat there was a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and I hope that through the coming negotiations we mightsooncometoalasting accord." His remarks came as Ukrainian President VolodymyrZelenskyandhis R
Vladimir Putin set out competing plans for a peace process to bring the threeyear invasion of Ukraine to
anend.
IntheMiddleEast,Israel has cut off all humanitarian aid entering Gaza and resumed its military offensive in the Palestinian territory following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement Meanwhile, India and Pakistanagreedtoatentative ceasefire on Saturday after daysofcross-bordermilitary strikes that followed an attack on tourists in IndianadministeredKashmiron22 April.
It has been a busy week for the pontiff, who held his first Mass as Pope in the Sistine chapel on Friday before speaking to cardinals onSaturday
During this meeting, he described himself as an unworthy choice for Pope, and vowed to continue the "precious legacy" of his
predecessor He highlighted the importance of missionary work and discussion - as well as care forthosehecalledthe"least and the rejected" He explained he had chosen the name Leo after a 19thcentury Pope known for his teaching on social justice.
The new Pope also suggested the development of artificial intelligence and other advances meant the church was necessary today for the defence of human dignityandjustice.
He is due to hold an audience with the media on Monday ahead of his inauguration next Sunday As part of that mass he will deliver a homily in the presence of numerous heads of state and dignitaries. The 69-year-old is the 267th occupant of the throne of St Peter,andthefirstAmerican to become a pontiff. He will
lead members of the Catholic Church's global community of 1.4bn people. BornRobertFrancisPrevost in Chicago, he worked for many years as a missionary inPerubeforebeingmadean archbishopthere.Healsohas Peruviannationality Although Leo was born in the US, the Vatican described him as the second pope from the Americas. Pope Francis, from Argentina, was the first PopeLeoiswidelyseenasa moderate who can offer "continuity" and "unity" following the death of his predecessor last month. The new pontiff is believed to have shared Francis' views onmigrants,thepoorandthe environment In his first speechhetoldthecrowdshe wanted "to walk together with you as a united Church searching all together for peaceandjustice".
Erla cleared of wrongdoing in sniper rifles case
( T R I N I D A D GUARDIAN) Embattled Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher has been cleared of any wrongdoing in the importation of two sniper rifles for the Strategic ServicesAgency(SSA).
The outcome of the probe was announced by
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard, SC, in a press release late yesterday evening.Gaspardsaid,“The T&T Police Service (TTPS) has ably presented to me a substantial file containing evidence and in light of the serious questions which that evidence has raised, concerning the CoP's performance of her due diligence functions, I am of the opinion that while this
coupledwithhergrantingof the Firearm Import Permit was sufficient to lead to her arrest as a suspect, the evidence present does not reach the required threshold so as to lead to a criminal charge.
“Ofcourse,itistritelaw that an arrest should not and doesnotnecessarilyleadtoa charge.”
Gaspard said there was no realistic prospect of securingaconvictionagainst Harewood-Christopher for misbehaviour in public office or any other offence.
“I am further fortified in my conviction since the evidence has not unearthed any improper motive, consideration or quid pro quo which might have unlawfully under-girded the CoP'sissuanceofthesubject
permit,” he said The announcement came two days before High Court
J
Sieuchand is due to deliver his judgment in a lawsuit brought by HarewoodChristopher challenging a decision of the Police
Service Commission (PolSC) to suspend her and replace her with Deputy PoliceCommissioner(DCP) JuniorBenjaminpendingthe outcomeoftheprobe.
Italsocomesdaysbefore the end of HarewoodChristopher's extended term as she celebrates her 62nd birthday on Thursday Gaspard explained how the probe into HarewoodChristophercommencedand noted that she issued the firearmimportpermitforthe weapons.Hepointedoutthat
Top US officials emerge...
Frompage17 first quarterly contraction since early 2022, as importers raced to bring in goodsbeforepunishingtariff rates kicked in. The impact ofthesky-hightariffsisalso being felt keenly in China, whoseexportstotheUSfell sharply in April. Chinese outbound shipments to the US stood at $33 billion last month — a whopping 21% decline from the $41 8 billion recorded in April 2024, according to CNN's calculation. SteepUStariffsalsotook
a heavy toll on China's manufacturing sector Chinese factory activity contracted at its fastest pace in16monthsinApril,adding urgency to Beijing's efforts to roll out fresh economic stimulus The news that Bessent and Greer would meet their Chinese counterparts in Geneva raised hopes of a thaw betweenthetwonations.The USandChinaaretheworld's largest and second-largest economies, respectively, biggerthaneventhenext20 economies put together,
according to World Bank data Trump also told a conservative radio host on Wednesday that he would raisethecaseofjailedHong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai “as part of the negotiation ” Lai, a pugnaciousformerpublisher whosenow-shutteredtabloid Apple Daily was a regular thorn in Beijing's side, is in the midst of a national securitytrialthatcouldsend him to prison for life. It's unclear if US officials brought up Lai in talks with theirChinesecounterparts.
under section 17(4) of the Firearms Act, the Police Commissioner must be satisfied that the applicant had good reasons for acquiring a firearm, can be permitted to have the w e a p o n w i t h o u t endangering public safety andisofsoundmind.“Itwas againstthisbackdropthatthe TTPS began to investigate, inter alia, whether the CoP had wilfully neglected to perform her duty and/or whethertheCoPhadwilfully misconducted herself in the performance of her duty, in issuing the Firearm Import Permit,”hesaid.
“The word wilfully here istobeconstruedinthesense of the office holder acting deliberatelyandofherbeing fullyawareofherdutynotto misconduct herself, in the manner under reference ”
G a s p a r d s a i d t h e investigators led by DCP
Suzette Martin were required to probe whether Harewood-Christopher did proper due diligence or fell belowthestandardsrequired for her office. Stating that the threshold based on legal authorities is high, Gaspard said, “These authorities also establishthatamistake,even a serious one, will not suffice.”
In late January, Harewood-Christopher was arrested and detained by investigators She was suspended shortly after she was released from custody
investigations HarewoodChristopherfiledthelawsuit challenging the legality of her suspension. She also soughtaninjunctionoverthe commission's decision to appoint DCP Junior Benjamin to temporarily replace her while she is on suspension. The injunction was rejected by Justice Sieuchand,whostillgranted her leave to pursue her substantivecase.
Harewood-Christopher attained retirement age months after being first appointed by the PolSC in February 2023. The Cabinet ledbythePrimeMinisterDr Keith Rowley moved to extend HarewoodChristopher's term by a year under Section 75 of the Police Service Act. The legislation empowers the President to extend the term of a first division officer, whoisduetoretireifitisin thenationalinteresttodoso. Police officers can receive two further one-year extensions based on annual performancereviews.Social activist Ravi Balgobin Maharaj brought a lawsuit challenging the legality of the move. The case was rejected by High Court Judge Ricky Rahim, the Court of Appeal and most recently by the United Kingdom-based Privy Council in December, last year Elder: CoP suffered
immensedistress
ThankGodit'sover!
This is how Senior Counsel Pamela Elder, attorney for HarewoodChristopher surmised the decision by the DPP to dismiss the investigation into her client for supposed misconduct “This has caused my client immense distress, suffering, public humiliation both locally and internationally As I said from the inception, I sat through that interview and there was no evidence whatsoever to justify a charge. So, the DPP, having l o o k e d a t a l l t h e documentation, I mean it took some time, having given it thought, careful thought, he has agreed that no criminal charges can be brought.”
Elder also noted that she had publicly pronounced thattherewasnoevidenceof wrongdoing by her client after she sat in on an interview with investigators before HarewoodChristopher's release from custody. Asked whether the Police Service Commission (PolSC) will now reinstate Harewood-Christopher for the remainder of her contract, Elder said that will be up to the PolSC. “They would have to look at it.
They would have to carefullyconsideritbecause by tomorrow, Monday, we should get a ruling on the unlawfulsuspension.”
Antigua and Barbuda becomes newest shareholder country of CAF
St. John's, Antigua.
May9,2025–The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has officially completed the process to become the newest shareholder country ofCAF–DevelopmentBank of Latin America and the Caribbean.OnMay2,2025, Antigua and Barbuda finalized its status as a “Series C Shareholder,” unlocking access to agile, flexible, and innovative f
sustainable and inclusive national development initiatives.
To commemorate this milestone, the national flag ofAntiguaandBarbudawas r a i s e d a t C A F ' s headquarters in Caracas, Venezuela, in a symbolic ceremony that marked the country's formal entry into the CAF family as its 23rd shareholder
With this membership finalized, CAF's presence in the Caribbean region
c
commitment to supporting thedevelopmentprioritiesof Caribbean Small Island DevelopingStates(SIDS). Like m
SIDS, Antigua and Barbuda is on the front lines of the climate c
intensifying hurricanes, rising sea levels, and resource scarcity, which pose serious threats to its people, economy, and infrastructure.
CAF's Executive President, Sergio DíazGranados, welcomed the incorporationofAntiguaand Barbuda.
“This represents a significant milestone in our deepening partnership with the Caribbean. Seeing the Antigua and Barbuda's flag raised at our headquarters represents our enduring commitment to the country andtheregion.
Antigua and Barbuda bringsboldleadershiptothe
Monday May 12, 2025
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
Todayismeantforsocializing and connecting, Aries. Your creativity is at an all-time high, so also try to work in some quiet time where you can do some writing or painting.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
You can't help but notice that your home looks a bit drab, Taurus.Today you could plan to do something about it. It won't take much money, just time and a little creativity Paint some samples on the walls.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
You have a to-do list a mile long today, Gemini. You may spend a lot of your day running errands. No one will knowifyoudon'tmeetthem.
CANCER(June21–July22)
You're ready for a career change, Cancer, or at least a change of venue. Have you considered telecommuting onedayperweek?Thatmight give you the variety you seek withoutneedingtofindanew job.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
What is your dream, Leo?
Answer that question as specifically as possible today, then set about attaining that goal. All signs indicate that whateveryoubegintodaywill payoffbigtime.
VIRGO(Aug 23–Sept 22)
Thismayseemodd,Virgo,but youmaynotbethepersonyou think you are There are indications that you have hidden talents. If they come outtoday,noonewillbemore shockedthanyou!
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
You're about to experience a major change in your life's direction, Libra, and it may occur today. Keep your mind opentoallsortsofpossibilities. Ofcourse,youmaynotrealize itsimportancerightaway
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
You're unstoppable today, Scorpio It seems you can d o a n y t h i n g Yo u r confidence and energy are high There's no question that you're ready to take the worldbystorm Istheworld readyforyou?
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
It'slikelythatyou'rebeingheld back by certain traumatic past events You will find that mustering the courage to do thisdifficulthousecleaning.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Youcouldreceivesomesortof windfalltoday,Capricorn.Use it wisely Consider buying some time to figure out what you want to do with your life. It's likely that your career isn't exactlyringingyourbellsthese days.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)
It'slikelythatyouwillsucceed at whatever you set out to accomplishtoday,Aquarius.If you've been held back by worries over the integrity of a relationship or the long-term prospectsofapartnership.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Your energy may flag a bit today, Pisces. There's nothing to worry about, though you could take better care of your health. What happened to that exerciseregimenyouvowedto start?
regional development agenda as a strong advocate on behalf of SIDS. CAF standsreadytoworkwiththe Government of Antigua and Barbuda to deliver on its vision for a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.”
In November 2024, anotherCARICOMcountry, The Bahamas, officially became a shareholder of CAF, while other countries areatadvancedstagesofthe incorporationprocess.
Premier League: Newcastle beat 10-man Chelsea to close in on Champions League
(BBC Sport) - Newcastle United moved within touching distance of Champions League football next season with a crucial victory against 10-man Chelsea at StJames'Park.
The Magpies and Chelsea started the day locked on the same 63-pointtallybeforeNewcastlegot the perfect start when Sandro Tonali's close-range finish gave them the lead after just 112 seconds.
The visitors' task was made even harder when striker Nicolas Jackson was rightly sent off for a needless forearm smash on Newcastle defender Sven Botman 10minutesbeforethebreak.
Manager Enzo Maresca adjustedbyusingColePalmerasa false nine, inspiring a Chelsea revivalafterthebreak,withkeeper Nick Pope twice saving well from Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez.
Reece James missed another big opportunity for Chelsea, but Newcastle survived to wrap up a priceless three points in stoppage timewhenBrunoGuimaraes'strike took a deflection off Malo Gusto and looped over keeper Robert Sanchez.
While it was delight for Newcastle, it was despair for Chelsea after an expensive loss as they now face Manchester United at home before a potentially decisivevisittoNottinghamForest,
Arsenal's Bukayo Saka in action with Liverpool's Cody Gakpo (Reuters)
also chasing a Champions League place,onthefinaldayoftheseason.
Newcastle, up to third in the table, travel to second-placed Arsenal before closing out their campaignathometoEverton.
Arsenal come from behind to drawatLiverpool
Mikel Merino scored and was thensentoffasArsenalcamefrom
two goals down to draw with Premier League champions Liverpoolinanentertainingmatch atAnfield.
There was a celebratory atmosphere as Liverpool - who wrappedupthetitletwoweeksago -racedaheadwithtwogoalsintwo minutes.
Theyscoredthefirstinthe20th
minute when Arsenal's defence switched off following a quick throw-in and Andy Robertson's cross was headed in by Cody Gakpo.
The Reds doubled their lead a minute later when Dominik Szoboszlai chased on to a forward pass and squared the ball for Luis Diaztoslideintoanemptynet.
Arsenal looked as though they wereheadingforaheavydefeatbut ralliedafterthebreak.
Gabriel Martinelli headed in a cross from Leandro Trossard to give them a lifeline in the 47th minute before Merino followed into the area to score afterAlisson tippedashotfromMartinOdegaard ontothecrossbar
Merino was then sent off for a second bookable offence when he lunged into a tackle on the edge of theArsenalpenaltyareaafterlosing possession-andthevisitorsplayed thefinal10minutesamandown.
It was Trent AlexanderArnold's first appearance for Liverpool since he announced he would be leaving at the end of the season and he was booed by supporters when he came on as a substitute. He almost turned those boos to cheers when his free-kick, following the red card for Merino, curledjustwideofthepost.
There was drama right at the finishasRobertsonhadagoalruled out. The defender found the net after goalkeeper David Raya had parried Virgil van Dijk's headerbut there was a foul by Ibrahima Konate on Myles Lewis-Skelly in the build-up. The result leaves Liverpool 15 points clear of second-placed Arsenal, who remain in control of their own destiny as they look to secure Champions League football next season.
BCCI aiming to resume IPL 2025 in May following cease fire
(Cricinfo) - The BCCI has begun taking steps towards resuming IPL 2025 in May following the announcementofaceasefire between India and Pakistan thatcameintoeffectat1130 GMT (1700 IST and 1630 PKT)onSaturday
"Thewarhasstopped.In the new situation BCCI office bearers, officials and IPL governing council, will discussthemattertomorrow (Sunday) and take a call," BCCI vice-president Rajeev ShuklatoldPTIVideos."We willseewhichcanbethebest schedule to complete the tournament."
ESPNcricinfo has learnedthatalltenfranchises are trying to recall overseas players and coaching staff back to India as plans are afoot to restart the tournament as soon as possible.Itisunderstoodthe IPLcouldstartassoonasthe
following weekend - around May 15 - subject to Indian governmentpermission.
The BCCI had to suspendthetournamentfora week on Friday following the escalation of crossborder tensions between IndiaandPakistanthatledto the abandonment of the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals midway through the first innings in Dharamsala on May8.
Theimmediatechallenge forthefranchisesistotryand bring back their overseas contingent, most of whom left India between Friday and Saturday Several franchises have reached out to players and staff asking them to be ready to fly back to India. Some players and support staff who are in transit have been asked to halt further travel for the time being One of the
franchises even asked its coaching staff to postpone travel out of India as they were getting ready to depart onSunday
Some teams are more fortunate than others in this regard: only two Gujarat Titansoverseasplayers-Jos ButtlerandGeraldCoetzeehaveleftthecountryandthe franchise is trying to bring themback.
While the franchises remained optimistic earlier on Saturday that most overseas players would returnifthetournamentwere to resume in May, they acknowledged there would be no guarantees if the season extended beyond May 25, when the IPL2025 final was scheduled to be played in Kolkata. That's because of bilateral commitments for several players,aswellastheWorld Test Championship (WTC)
The PBKS-DC game in Dharamsala was called off after a floodlight failure (BCCI)
final between Australia and South Africa, starting on June11atLord's.
Atotalof57matcheshad beencompletedinIPL2025, and the 58th was going on May 8 between PBKS and DC in Dharamsala when it was called off after 10.1
overs of play The IPL has not yet taken a call on whether that match will be replayed.
There are 12 league matches and four playoffs remainingintheseason,and one possibility is that these fixtures could be played in
three southern cities: Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad Seven teams remain in the race for the playoffs, with only Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) outofcontention.
Barcelona beat Real Madrid in thriller to move closer to title
(BBC Sport) - Barcelona closed in on the league title astheyfoughtbackfromtwo goals down to beat Real Madrid - for whom Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trickinathrillingClasico.
RealMadridracedintoa 2-0 lead with Mbappe scoring twice inside 14 minutes, but Barca hit four by half-time - one each for Eric Garcia and Lamine Yamal, and two for Raphinha.
Mbappe scored again with 20 minutes left, to take his club total in all competitionsto39-themost everbyaRealMadridplayer in their debut season - and Barca's Fermin Lopez had a goalruledoutforhandballin agrippingfinish.
Victory put Barca seven points clear of their archrivals with three games left toplay
Hansi Flick named an unchanged Barcelona side following their draining Champions League semifinaldefeatbyInterMilanon Tuesday, and in the early stagestheylookedlethargic.
Mbappe converted from thepenaltyspotafterhewas
Szczesny, and added a second after running on to
Vinicius Junior's through ball in behind Barcelona's highdefensiveline. As the Frenchman celebrated, he likely didn't expectwhatcamenextatthe Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium.
Garcia halved the deficit with a header from a corner in the 19th minute, before LamineYamal produced his
latestpieceofbrilliance.
The 17-year-old was quiet for the first half-anhour, but announced his arrival in the match by curling a sumptuous strike into the bottom corner of ThibautCourtois'goal.
Barca pressed Real Madridrelentlesslyandtook the lead less than two minutes later wh
n
Raphinha found himself in spaceontheleftoftheboxafter Mbappe and Lucas Vazquez got in each other's way under pressure - and arrowedpastCourtois. The Ballon d'Or candidate then headed over Yamal's cross, but made no mistakeinconvertingFerran Torres' cut-back after stealing possession from
Barcelona have won four consecutive Clasicos for just the second time (Getty Images)
Vazquez.
MomentsearlierMbappe thought he had won a penalty,butavideoassistant referee review showed Jude Bellingham was fractionally offside.
Barcelona started the secondhalfastheyendedthe first - Raphinha raced into the Real Madrid half and squared for Yamal to tap
home, but the Brazilian was rightlyflaggedoffside.
RealMadridlookedtobe flagging when Mbappe completedhishat-trickfrom close range to move two goals clear in the race to be La Liga's top scorer, before Raphinha missed a sitter from a few yards out at the otherend.
Victor Munoz, Madrid's 21-year-old substitute, blazed over when bearing down on goal, before Mbappe forced Szczesny intoasmartlowstop.
Fermin Lopez looked to have scored a brilliant fifth, butaVARcheckruleditout forhandballinthebuild-up.
Having already beaten Real Madrid in La Liga, the SpanishSuperCupfinaland the Copa del Rey final this season, Barca equalled the recordtheysetin1982-83of winning four Clasicos in a singlecampaign.
That Real Madrid have conceded 16 goals in four Clasicos this season illustrates their decline and Barcelona's improvement overthepastninemonths. Barcelona will win the league title with victory againstneighboursEspanyol on Thursday, or if Real Madrid lose to Mallorca on Wednesday
Halley'sstrikeclinches SwagEntertainment's fourthtitle
Swag Entertainment, led by an 18th-minute Guinness Goal by Allan Halley, secured their fourth Linden Guinness in the Streets crown as they overcame Silver Bullets' challenge in thefinalwhichwasplayedto a large gathering, at the Retrieve Hard Court last Saturdaynight.
It was the Bullets who s h o t d o w n S w a g Entertainment when they clashed in a quarterfinal encounter last year and this winavengedthatlossinabig way
This time around Swag Entertainment was able to break a deadlocked game, when Halley struck in the 18th minute as it counted as two goals, and proved to be the decider That 2-0 win allowedSwagEntertainment to increase their tally to four and earned them $500,000 and bragging rights as they have qualified for the National Championship which is being sponsored by beveragegiantsBanksDIH.
ForplacingsecondSilver Bulletsgot$400,000.
E a r l i e r S w a g Entertainment humbled YMCA 3-0 behind Allan Halley's hat-trick coming in the 25th and the other a Guinness Goal which counted as two in the 29th minute.
In the other semifinal, Silver Bullets won against DCBallers2-0toadvanceto
thefinalsasthescorerswere Jermaine Samuels (19th minute) andAmaniki Buntin inthe26thminute.
The main supporting game was the third-place match between the losing semifinalists and that game was won by YMCA who defeatedDCBallers3-0with KevinGittens(14thminute), Kymani Price (16th minute) and Jamal Bentick (19th minute) accounting for their goals.
YMCA is $300,000 richer while DC Ballers collected$250,000.
In the Plate final for $60,000, the winners were SpaniardswhodefeatedTurf President in a battle among thelosingquarterfinalists.
Complete Results
'GuinnessGoal'-(GG)-2 Final
Swag Entertainment-2 vs.SilverBullets-0
AllanHalley-GG-19th 3rdPlace
YMCA-3 vs DC Ballers-0
KevinGittens-14th
KymaniPrice-16th
JamalBentick-18th Semis
Silver Bullets-2 vs. DC Ballers-0
JermaineSamuels-18th
AmonikiBuntin-26th
YMCA-0 vs. Swag Entertainment-3
Allan Halley-25th and GG-29th Plate Final
Spaniards-3 vs Turf President-0
Action on the final night at the Retrieve Hard Court