Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur News

Sunday March 06, 2022

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Exxon’s subsidiary applies to join Govt. in tax case brought by Glenn Lall

Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana By Rehanna Ramsay Exxon’s subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) has applied to the High Court to be joined as a party to the case for which Kaieteur News’ (KN) Publisher Glenn Lall is challenging the repressive tax provisions contained in the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). The PSA between the oil giant, its partners and the Government of Guyana essentially states, “…no tax, value-added tax, excise tax, duty, fee, charge or other impost shall be levied on the Contractor or Affiliated Companies, in respect of income derived from Petroleum Operations with the Stabroek Block.” The Stabroek Block is currently being drilled by Exxon’s subsidiary EEPGL, Hess Corporation and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited. I n J a n u a r y, K N ’s publisher, through his attorney, Mohamed R. Ali, filed an action in the High Court which outlined that the tax reliefs listed under Article 15.1 of the Petroleum Agreement, dated June 27, 2016, between the Guyana Government and the oil companies, violate the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act, the Financial Administration (and Audit) Act, the Prevention of Discrimination Act, and the Constitution. In that court case, Lall is seeking declarations to have the provisions nullified and reversed. Last Thursday, EEPGL, the Exxon operator filed an application to join the proceeding alongside the

government of Guyana to oppose the court case. According to the document which was seen by this publication, the Exxon operator applied to be joined as respondent in the case alongside the Government of Guyana. In the document, the oil operator noted it has “a very real and substantial interest,” in the matter. In an affidavit to support the application, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge outlined concerns that EEPGL and its coventurers are the ones that would be most adversely affected, if the 17 declaratory judgments sought by the applicant (Lall) should be granted. Routledge claimed that the Petroleum Agreement was solemnly negotiated with the Guyana Government. He stressed that “certain fiscal arrangements therein agreed with the Guyana Government make the Liza Phase 1 Project, the Liza Phase 2 Project and the Payara Project financially feasible and commercially viable.” Routledge noted further that in addition to the abovementioned projects, Esso and its co-venturers have committed themselves to massive and substantial expenditures both past, present, and future totalling billions of US dollars. He explained that “If the declaratory reliefs the applicant is seeking are granted, it would similarly cause Esso and its coventurers to sustain substantial and potentially unsustainable financial loss and damage. The ExxonMobil Guyana President continued, “The subject matter of the instant litigation is whether Esso and its co-venturers are entitled to enjoy the fiscal arrangements negotiated and agreed in good faith with the Guyana Government.” He added that “Esso and its co-venturers have expended sums in excess of US$4 billion of total expenditures to execute the Liza Phase 1 Project. Esso and its co-venturers are also in the process of expending

another US$6 billion to execute the Liza Phase 2 Project and yet another US$9 billion to execute the Payara Project.” As a result, Routledge contends that Esso and its coventurers’ constant position is that there is no legal justification for any change to these arrangements which were solemnly agreed to between the parties. He emphasised too that “if the basis on which the Petroleum Agreement was negotiated and agreed is changed, that would cause Esso and its co-venturers considerable economic disruption, confusion, and uncertainty. “Naturally, as these expenditures were premised on the agreements contained

in the Petroleum Agreement inclusive of its fiscal arrangements (including tax exemptions/reductions for Esso and its contractors), Esso and its co-venturers have a very real and vested interest in maintaining the Petroleum Agreement in the form which was agreed. Esso has a very real and substantial interest in the subject matter of these proceedings, namely whether the terms and provisions of its Petroleum Agreement with the Guyana Government are lawful and valid, and whether it would be entitled to carry out the above-described projects based on the said provisions of its Petroleum Agreement, and it is thereby entitled to be a party to the said proceeding,” Routledge

explained. As such, the country President contends that it would be improper for the case to continue and Esso is not added as a respondent to the proceeding. Routledge said therefore, “it is necessary and appropriate for Esso to be added as a Respondent to the FDA (Fixed Date Application)...” He claimed that there can be no prejudice to Lall or his case from adding Esso to the matter. “As it were, he [Lall] ought to have named Esso as a Respondent in the first place and it is because of his deliberate omission that Esso is now forced to make this Application to correct the said omission. Not joining Esso would constitute a grave and

Glenn Lall, Kaieteur News Publisher serious breach of the rules of natural justice and in particular, the audi alteram partem rule,” Routledge contested. Further, he stressed that there is no prejudice the applicant would suffer if Esso were added as a party to defend its interests and to object to the declaratory reliefs sought against it.

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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Fix Yellowtail EIA completely and satisfactorily Exxon’s consultant, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) has much work to do and deliver to Guyana’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Because of loud outcries and sustained pressures from concerned environmentalists, among others, the local EPA was forced to ask ERM to go back to the drawing board, and make a real effort at coming up with an acceptable Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Exxon’s fourth oil project in the Stabroek Block, the US$9 billion Yellowtail development. The EIA document submitted last year is 1,500 pages, but is “seriously deficient” in vital areas, according to one watchful environmentalist, Simone Joly-Mangal. We are thankful for genuine Guyanese like Ms. Joly-Mangal, and the others who make their voices heard and presences felt in meaningful ways. What the leaders of this country have failed to do and to get for Guyana, these sturdy stalwart patriots are making no bones about where they stand, and what is right and safe for Guyana. They have no loyalty save that of the interests of this society and its future. They certainly are not compromised by, or indebted to Exxon in any way. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for leaders in Guyana’s Government of today, which leave so much to be desired. So weak they are, so powerless they have been. The EIA as it stands today poses grave risks. We quote the words of Ms. Joly-Mangal: “The quantities of toxic and other waste being brought to shore, health, and ecological risks of each of their constituent parts, and how they are treated and disposed of are critical issues, as the toxic waste treatment facilities are in areas where people live and all are at high-risk for flooding and creating a toxic soup on the coast, and our coastal groundwater aquifers are at risk.” Those are neither imaginary nor exaggerated, but very real, and ought to be a cause of serious concern for leaders in government, as well as every citizen of this country. In addition to proper toxic disposal, the issue of the fate of our fishing sector, and the woes of those who make a living from it, are not matters to be dealt with (by ERM) or accepted (by Guyana’s EPA) in a cavalier manner. ERM can and will do what is in the best interests of Exxon, our EPA must be hawklike in securing the best in safety and security for all the peoples of Guyana, and their present and future prospects.” We acknowledge that Guyana’s EPA did balk and show some stomach and muscle (for once) and did return the EIA to ERM for ‘fixing.’ This is how a vigilant and vibrant EPA makes a start to fulfil its heavy obligations to society and citizens. Regarding this carefully chosen ‘fixing’ we wait to see what Exxon’s ERM comes up with, and how much it genuinely addresses in its ‘fixing’ of the “significant deficiencies” mentioned before. Exxon’s ERM must think twice about returning what is claimed to be the extent of its ‘fixing’ only for it to be determined that is simply papering over those deficiencies. Guyana’s EPA and this country’s uncompromised environmentalists must both be ever watchful, and ever guarded, with what ERM hands over. It cannot be partial fixing, or playing with legalese and the camouflages of skillful corporate jargon intended to deceive and mislead. Exxon and its peoples are extremely good at such practices, because they have had long experience in doing so. Whatever ERM comes up with as its ‘fixing’ must be gone through with a fine-tooth comb, and under the intense scrutiny of a critical microscope. Because Exxon has been so cunning in how it has dealt with Guyana’s leaders in both this government and the coalition administration, there cannot be any confidence that it (or its people) acts in good faith. This fourth project, Yellowtail, must be managed with the greatest care and scrutinised most closely by Guyanese. Exxon and ERM must not be allowed to dictate to us how things are, and what must be. We determine that, we have the right and power to say stop or go forward. We must get Yellowtail right. It starts with ERM’s ‘fixing’ all that is wrong, “significantly deficient”.

Sunday March 06, 2022

Send your letters to Kaieteur News 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown or email us kaieteurnews@yahoo.com

Theres no telling what other laws are being broken, exposing the country to dangerous risks DEAR EDITOR, I watched with amusement, Exxons latest statement of March 2, 2022, and the frenzied utterings of our Honourable Vice President, even calling me a liar. I respect the office of the VP, so will not debase myself to the indignity of responding in kind, but will leave it to the people who know him better than I do, to pass judgment on his credibility to call others liars. However, I was highly disappointed, as all Guyanese should be, by the VPs injection of the race card into this debate, apparently not even realising that my mother is East Indian. In a country where we are so strongly divided by race, good leadership and governance desire

words of unity, not words of divisiveness. As related to the ongoing concern about lack of full liability coverage, I will further lay out more facts herein. True to form, in its latest statement, Exxon has once again succeeded in spinning our heads when now forced to admit that the insurance document they denied, does in fact exist with even the date that I had attested; but nevertheless, they still keep dodging our constant call to release the insurance policy document required by the Permit, for all to see the amount of insurance and what it covers. This conundrum reminds of when Exxon led the VP to falsely assert that I had tied his hands with a 14 Billion

Cubic feet gas flaring allowance, only to be thrown under the bus by Exxon when they disassociated themselves from such a fib. Worse though, it now appears that Exxon may have violated the Liza 2 Permit and laws of Guyana, when they started production of Liza 2 without providing to EPA, proof of full liability coverage comprising an insurance policy, and a parent companies Agreement covering all liabilities above the insurance amount. As all may recall over the past few days, Exxon vehemently denied the existence of any such requirements, so here are the facts contrary to their avowal. The entire Section 12 “Liability For Pollution Damage”

of the Liza 1 Permit signed by Mr. Parsram in 2017, constitutes only half of a page of content comprising of four subbullets - all only referring to EEPGL as the Permit Holder responsible for any damages. Besides EEPGL not having assets to cover any liabilities of a major spill, there was no Insurance nor Parent Company liability coverage in the Permit. To correct this flaw, I immediately demanded requirements for private insurance, plus an Agreement from the parent companies Exxon, Hess and CNOOC to cover all liabilities over the insurance amount. These 3-page requirements were incorporated in the early 2019 (Continued on page 5)

Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur M@ilbox Theres no telling what other laws are being... From page 4 Yellowtail 1 and Liza 2 Permits and all subsequent Permits. Section12.1 of the Permits states “The Permit Holder shall have insurance..” Section 12.4: “The EPA shall review the environmental liability insurance policy. Such review is subject to Provision of the amount of cover; supplementary to cover gaps in the primary cover; notification to EPA of modification, cancellation, expiration, intent to renew, renewal or non-renewal and expiry dates of the policy; reports on whether the insurance policy is maintained or renewed for EPA to determine if it is acceptable or if it requires a replacement policy; the final insurance policy or certificate of insurance; and evidence of payment of premium”. Section 12.5 states “Permit Holder must provide from the Parent Company or affiliate companies... one or more legally binding agreements to the EPA, undertaking to provide adequate financial resources to pay or satisfy their respective obligations if EEPGL fails to do so.” The above provides irrefutable proof of the legal requirements enshrined in the Permits for both an insurance and parent companies Agreement to cover amounts over the insurance exactly what I have been avouching, and exactly what VP Jagdeo and Exxon have denied. By their denial, Exxon may have now admitted violating the Liza 2 Permit by commenc-

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ing operations without these documents to EPA. Oh what a tangled web we weave/when first we practice to deceive! Additional information indicates that Exxon remained well aware of these requirements based upon written communication between EPA and Exxon concerning EPA requesting “certified copies of international insurance Agreement for the Payara Project” before start of production. I once again call upon Exxon to release the documents required by the Permits for all to see, and prove that the Liza 2 Permit was not violated by not submitting these documents before start-up. Failure to do so, requires an independent investigation, because of lack of trust and because there is no telling what other laws are being broken, exposing the country to dangerous risks. Dr. Vincent Adams Former EPA Head

Kaieteur M@ilbox

Thin-skinned PPP Govt.’s attacks on Civil Society groups detracts from “One Guyana” message DEAR EDITOR, President Ali is a good man and our duly elected President, who can end up being a great leader. Our AG, a “maybe” future presidential candidate and the smartest man in Guyana, is a national hero, and defender of our democracy. Who can forget his role as a “Guardian of Democracy” during the five months of rigging? I want the PPP Government to be very successful in office. However, the Government side must not be so thinskinned in the face of critiques by some Civil Society groups. Why it is afraid of what it claims is a handful of people? It should embrace such criticism. None of us is as strong as all of us. None of us is as smart as all of us. It is unfortunate that several Ministers are apparently in an orchestrated attempt to intimidate the Civil Society groups and almost inviting ill will to them. According to a blog by the Oil and Gas Governance

Network (www.OGGN.org), “The government can’t find time to ensure we have proper oil spill insurance, audit the US$9.5 billion oil expenses, and get us a fair deal. But it has plenty of time to attack civil society.” Minister Sonia should know that when her dad was an MP for the PNC, and probably before she was born, the GHRA was in the vanguard supporting the PPP s fight for democracy. They were hounded by the PNC then, and now hounded by the ungrateful PPP. The PPP likes “kisser upper,” groups that are lined up to pay obeisance to them, and who stand willing and ready to put malas on their necks, or issue a press release backing whatever the Government does. The PPP has no problems with “yes men” Civil Society groups that are lapdogs, and who are in the “Kim-IlSung, Great leader” mentality, ready to heap praise on whatever they do. These include business groupings in the

Private Sector and Chambers of Commerce. Sometimes these groups are actually playing the game of “The Emperors New Clothes” with the Government to feather their own nests. The real nationalists are the Civil Society groups offering authentic feedback, and should be listened to because they have the national interest at heart. They truly care. They are the pulse of the nation, especially the crossover voters that made the PPP a minority Government in 2011 and sent them packing in 2015. The PPP propaganda machine in overdrive now calls those who offer critiques as “The Usual Suspects” and seeks to demonise them. Just recently there was a picture of eight people, four of whom have doctorates, posted on a “Joe Hamiltons” Facebook page. These are brilliant

Guyanese. They were called “The Usual Suspects” and were vilified. Government leaders should not be engaged in these kinds of attacks, and force people to withdraw their signatures from petitions. The AG, especially, as the Chief Law Officer, probably should refrain from getting down to that gutter level of attacking Civil Society groups on his Facebook page. He is AG for all Guyana, including the one or twomember groups. He is not an AG for the PPP only. The Civil Society groups have done nothing wrong in exercising their constitutional rights to free speech. The AG should uphold that, not denigrate it. Its “Our Wealth, Our Country” and we all have a right to speak up! The PPP and PNC own nothing. They are merely caretakers. (Continued on page 6)

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur M@ilbox Thin-skinned PPP Govt.’s attacks on Civil... From page 5 They work for us. We are their bosses. We can fire them at election time! The President need to reflect on whether such criticisms would detract from his “One Guyana” vision, and cause people to feel he meant “One Party Guyana.” Right now, most Civil Society people are silent. The Church people in all religions are in deep slumber. Business people are afraid to be associated with those who offer critiques on Government policy. The lawyers are timid. There is not much Civil Society advocacy now. So, the Government seeking to squelch all critiques is very, very bad. With oil, comes corruption. We need an eternally vigilant Civil Society to speak out for environmental protection, transparency, accountability, good governance, anti-corruption, and full disclosure relating to all contracts and agreements on natural resources. They just gave away the Enmore packaging facility. Government cannot arrogate to itself the right to impose litmus tests to say which person or group is valid to speak, based on the size of their membership. The Constitution confers free speech rights to every single Guyanese, even if it is a onemember group. The Government just refused to listen to the Opposition with 31 seats and railroaded its own nominee to be a director for the Natural Resource Fund. The Government did not respect the size of the Opposition yet uses size as a litmus test on who should or should not speak. This is un-

democratic. It is silly to say that a person or organisation loses the right to criticise because they had nothing to say during the five months of impasse when the APNU+AFC attempted to rig the elections. So what should we say about none of the PPP MPs or Ministers, including those who are women and religious leaders, and all those business organisations who have not said anything about “Minister Dildos” disgraceful, vulgar remarks in parliament. Yet the PPP sent this man on a PR jaunt in NY, and the pandits there had him sitting in the front row of the temple event. Have they now lost the right forever to speak on moral or ethical issues? Does this mean the PPP has no morality anymore? Maybe the government would like to explain why it promised to “review and renegotiate” the oil contracts as part of its Manifesto but have refused to do so. How about the Government explaining why it has not done so but promised on March 2, 2021 to initiate the “Order of Democracy” awards to all those “Guardians of Democracy” and letter writers who contributed to fighting the PNCs rigging of the 2020 elections. There was a special release of a video by the Office of the President announcing the “Order of Democracy” awards.So, to our PPP Government I say - please do your job and stop attacking the Civil Society groups. When you hang by a thread of a one-seat majority, dont make enemies. Do you want the PNC to win in 2025? Stop the arrogance! Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall

T N U L B . . . T N U T L N B . U . . L T B . . N . U T L N B . U T . . L N T B . U . N . L U T B . . N . T U T N L N U B . U L . . L UNT .BLUNT...B ...BLUNT...B LUNT B T . . . N T U N L LUNT..UNTThe..'Guardians U the ..BLUN B of Democracy' . did their part during L B . . . T Nregional electionsLandUNT. LUand Bgeneral T...BL UNT..2020 . N B . . U . L T B . N L .. U to be a democracy. T N .BLcontinues U NT...B LUNT..Guyana L U B . L . . B T . . . N B T U N L U B . NT... LUN L . . U B . L . ButT can the 'Guardians of Guyana’ please stand up? . B T . . . N T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B N U You T are .needed to safeguard L ..BtoLjoin the fight B . UNT.....BLUN L . . B T . . . N T U L Guyana from the actions of a few that could LUN . B T . . . N B T . U . . N L B T . U . . N L T cripple this beloved nation of ours. U B . N L . U B . L . . B T . . . LUNT. ...BLUN B T . . Don't be silent, for asL weU know, silence . N T N U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L is often misconstrued for consent. T . U B . . N L T U B . N L . . U B BLUNTT...BLUNT.....BLUNT...BLT...BLU U BLUN T...BLUNT.UNT...BLUN L B . . . T N L U B L . . . B BLUN . T . . T N U BLUN L B . . . T N BLU Sunday March 06, 2022

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Dem

Dog is man's boys seh... best friend Y'all remember when yuh used to be riding yuh bicycle and dem dogs tackle yuh. Some ah dem dogs nah used to let up. Dem used to charge behind yuh, and de faster yuh peddle is de faster dem coming at yuh. Sometimes yuh does fall down and fear does tek over yuh because yuh feel dat de dog can chew yuh up. But strangely de dog does develop sympathy and walk away. It does mek dem boys feel dat dog is not only man's best friend but dem can

become human. One time a butcher see a dog in he shop and guh fuh chase it. Den he notice de dog gat a $1,000 bill and a note in he mouth asking fuh four pounds ah boneless steak. De butcher is amazed and after giving de dog he order, decided to follow de dog. He see when de dog reach de junction and wait fuh de green light and den trot over to de bus stop. De dog stand up and wait until a bus come up. Den de dog walk to de front of de bus and check to see if is de

right number before hopping on. De butcher follow he. After going a few blocks, de butcher notice dat de dog hops off and runs to a house. De dog drops de bag with de meat in front of de front door and throw heself against de door. De dog keep repeating dis. But nobody bin answering de door. So de dog run around to de back and start to beat he head against de window. Suddenly a big guy open de window and start cussing de dog.

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Sunday March 06, 2022

BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCY! In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes SUNDAY It has long been established that a person is innocent until proven guilty by a court of law. We certainly embrace this notion.But when some of the injustices in this land are taken into consideration, it is easy to be swayed into believing that some people, those who mete out wrongs that will be felt for generations, should be placed behind bars without a trial to languish for eternity. MONDAY The Amaila Falls Hydro project is being heralded by the government as a saviour for all our electricity problems. But is it really? A closer look at the deal surrounding this project shows that Guyana stands more dangerous risks than the Chinese company involved. Now that begs the question: Who really stands to benefit from this project? TUESDAY It is a worrying situation that bandits prey upon us by putting knives and guns to

our heads and taking what we have on our person. But even worse, our leaders have paved the way for us to be robbed without a single weapon being used. With approval being granted for one outrageous deal after another, our nation is set to be plundered upon for generations to come. WEDNESDAY Guyana—'The Land of Many Secrets' Guyana is well known by all as the 'Land of many waters, but quite frankly, it should be renamed the 'Land of many secrets'. In our country, the leaders have mastered the art of hiding the truth and polishing off their lies with empty promises to comfort its people. This is the case when it comes to full coverage insurance for the oil sector. Eight years since the discovery of oil and Guyanese are in the dark about the insurance policy in place for the Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two and Payara Projects. ExxonMobil gives us fanciful language that leaves

in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about onus more puzzled than before. Our leaders choose to give us silence. What is unfolding each day in this country is not only damning and frightening, but speaks volumes about what is to come. THURSDAY Threats to sue for this and that dominate our court system these days. There are the constant cries of feelings being hurt and embarrassment caused. But is anyone really paying attention to the burdensome projects that our leaders have been signing us up for? Travesties like these should hurt feelings and cause embarrassment FRIDAY With certain danger steering them in the face, Ukranians have been fighting for their rights. These resilient people have not recoiled in fear because of threats to their very existence. But here in Guyana the majority of the people are asleep or simply do not care that their future too is under

threat. Some are too willing to trade their birthright, no question asked, for intermittent cash reliefs. Come on Guyana: Take a page out of the patriotic Ukranians' book. With protests, let's defend this nation from oppressive deals meant to rob us of our

going indecency in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation. patrimony. SATURDAY A plea, during the protest held yesterday by some of our countrymen in solidarity with Ukraine, was for Russia to respect human right laws. But can some of our leaders do the same? Can they look Putin in his face

and ask him to respect any law when they have no regard for some of our local laws? Our leaders are enabling the likes of Exxon, to evade our tax system, further ruining this nation financially. When will the disrespect for this nation end?

Sunday March 06, 2022

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Joseph Harmon resigns as Member of F Parliament

ormer Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon who vacated that position only a few weeks ago has since tendered his resignation

to the National Assembly, signalling his intent to no longer serve as a Member of Parliament (MP). The Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sherlock

Isaacs in confirming this development, revealed that the letter was received by him on Saturday from Harmon, indicating that the resignation takes effect on

March 15, 2022. Isaacs added that Harmon did not state his reason for resignation. It was only on January 26, 2022 during the Budget

Joseph Harmon

Debates that the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, announced that Harmon had resigned as Leader of the Opposition. His resignation as Opposition Leader came two weeks after the newly elected Leader of the People's National Congress Reform (PNC/R), Mr. Aubrey Norton told a news conference that the party has made a decision that it wants to be led by him. Norton was declared the new leader of the PNC/R after securing more than 70 percent of the total votes cast for the position during the party's 21st Biennial Delegates Congress, held in December last. Also vying for the post were Dr. Richard Van-West Charles and Joseph Harmon. Following Harmon's defeat in the party's internal elections process and the decision of its members to be led by Norton in Parliament, former Education Minister, Dr. Nicolette Henry resigned from the National Assembly to make room for the new Opposition Leader. Henry's resignation was announced on February 2, 2022. The former Education Minister, under the APNU+AFC Coalition Government, made the announcement as she wrapped up her 2022 budget debate presentation. “I am forever grateful to the people of this country who afforded me the opportunity to serve them with professionalism, dignity and accountability. I than the coalition partners, Khemraj (Ramjattan), for their unwavering support and guidance. I thank each and

every member in this honourable house for the commitment and dedication you bring each and every day, sometimes under the most difficult circumstances… I part company and I conclude my contribution to budget 2022,” Henry concluded. Harmon did not attend Parliament to make his contributions to the 2022 Budget, but instead presented virtually. Most of the Opposition MPs had however, staged a walkout during his contributions. Since Norton's public announcement of the party members wanting to be led by him, Harmon and the new Leader had been at loggerheads. In fact after the announcement, the office of the Leader of the Opposition which was then under the stewardship of Harmon, issued a statement urging that the procedures be followed. It said: “The main Parliamentary Opposition is the APNU+AFC coalition and consists of 31 Members of Parliament. The APNU Partnership has an established structure and if the executive of a party in the partnership has a position and they wish to express that position, they should follow the established procedures. The Office of the Leader of the Opposition is a constitutional office and is consequently governed by the constitution”. The Opposition, up to press time, did not issue a statement on Harmon's resignation. It is also unclear when Norton would be appointed Opposition Leader and Member of Parliament.

Kaieteur News

Sunday March 06, 2022

Teen battling for life after workmate accidently turns on cement mixer with him inside The cement mixer in which Ricardo Nandlall was injured.

The desperate screams of an 18-year-old labourer on Monday might have saved him from being completely minced to death by a cement mixer at his workplace – Forrester Lumber and Building Complex, located at Stewartville, West Coast Demerara (WCD). Reportedly battling for his life at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), after his lower abdomen was cut open by the mixer, is Ricardo Nandlall of Lot 46 South De Kinderen Line-Top, WCD. According to police, the workplace accident occurred around 15:15hrs on Monday. Nandlall was reportedly sent by his boss to clean the mixer. However, one of his co-workers, the cement mixer operator, did not know that he was inside the machine and decided to turn it on. Seconds later the coworker heard the teen’s screams coming from inside of the mixer and reportedly shut it down immediately. Other workers heard the screams as well and they all rushed to take him out of the machine. The mixer ’s blades reportedly cut open Nandlall’s abdomen and left his intestines protruding. They reportedly rushed the injured teen to the Leonora Cottage Hospital in one of the company’s pick-up. While treating Nandlall, a doctor decided to alert police of the situation and

The injured Ricardo Nandlall ranks visited the hospital around 15:45hrs. Ranks, according to a statement sent out by the force’s Corporate Communications Unit (CCU), tried to interview the injured teen but he was unresponsive. Nandlall was transferred to the GPHC for further treatment as investigators visited his workplace to conduct an investigation. The co-worker, who accidently turned on the cement mixer with the teen inside, has since been detained by police. However, the commander of the division reportedly told the CCU that the coworker’s action was not malicious but he is under investigation for suspected negligence.

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Kaieteur News

GTT launches Fibre + Voice Service - says customers can keep their number GTT, Guyana's premier telecoms provider, has announced that 'Fibre Just Got Better' with the introduction of its Fibre + Voice service. In a release GTT said that Fibre + Voice is a bundled service combining highspeed fibre internet and telephone services. The newest service, offered by GTT, is in keeping with the company's mission, 'to pivot GTT to become a 21st century customer centric organisation', as it allows customers to get more value for their money. Customers, according to GTT, can expect with free minutes for calls to landline and other GTT fibre customers, lower calling rates, and the same great internet speeds they have come to anticipate from GTT Fibre. It also is in keeping with telecommunication company's promises to 'reliably connect its customers' and 'innovate for all in Guyana.' Chief Operating Officer, GTT, Eshwar Tharkurdin, said, “You (customers) have asked for this solution, and we have delivered. Residential customers shared their need to keep their existing landline number, which they have had for many years. Fibre + Voice now provides the option to keep this number, bundled with our High-Speed Fibre Internet for just one thousand dollars ($1000) more.” Thakurdin indicated that this bundled deal would benefit customers who want to keep their number while accessing the fibre solution. He added, “This is quite a package when you consider that a landline customer today pays telephone rental of

Eshwar Tharkurdin Chief Operating Officer, GTT $750, plus charges for all calls. Additionally, DSL customers who would like to upgrade to GTT Fibre get to keep their landline number with Fibre + Voice and will receive 500 complimentary minutes, or more depending on the plan they choose.” In addition to the bundled minutes, the package is further loaded with three of the most popular features: Call waiting, Caller's ID and 3-Way Calling. Thakurdin added, “Our promises include innovating for all in Guyana and reliably connecting our customers – I believe the addition of Fibre + Voice to our GTT Fibre plans directly fulfills these two promises as we give customers the option to keep their number while upgrading their copper technology to the more reliable fibre solution.” Existing DSL & Landline customers can visit gtt.co.gy/fibre to check “Current Service Areas” to find out if they are in a Fibre area or call 0327 for eligibility information. Customers are encouraged to pay their Fibre + Voice plans, Fibre 50+, Fibre 100+, and Fibre 150+, the quick and effortless way, using mmg+.

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Farmer fetching grass to police station 4 months now to feed impounded animals dead. We couldn’t find two but when me find am, somebody rebrand them,” said the farmer.

By Shervin Belgrave For more than four months now, a farmer has been spending money just to transport grass to feed his impounded cows at the Mahaicony Police Station while ranks await a file to prosecute a matter involving the animals. Speaking with Kaieteur News on Saturday, the farmer Mahadeo Dandath, said that the daily trip to the police station, for more than four months, has made him frustrated and was causing him to lose hope. However, he kept on “bugging” the ranks to prosecute the matter but they would always have an excuse. “‘The file gone for advice’, ‘we still waiting on the file’, ‘it ain’t come back yet’ and a whole set a thing them does seh,” the farmer related. His persistence might have paid off or at least it seems so. A c c o r d i n g t o Commander of the Region Five division, Kurleigh Simon, his ranks have

The impounded cows at the Mahaicony Police Station. received the file and the case with the impounded cows will be taken before the court next week. Unaware of the outcome of the case, Dandath wonders if he will have to continue fetching the grass to the police station for another four months just to keep them nourished. The farmer related that his troubles began in October last year. Guyana

was experiencing one of the worst floods along its coastal region and his rice and cattle farm suffered. Dandath said that he had 17 heads of cattle and the floods took the lives of 15 but two were missing. When he found the missing two – a mother and her calf – they were rebranded by another man. “My rice field was destroyed and 15 of my cows

He said that he reported the matter to the police and investigators decided to impound the cows at the

station to facilitate an investigation. Dandath added that he Continued on page 59

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Civil society group urges citizens to sign petition to halt ExxonMobil’s 4-billion tonne carbon bomb in Stabroek Block - As latest int’l report calls for deep cuts in emissions; details more devastating impacts of climate change The Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), one of the key working groups of the United Nations responsible for advancing knowledge on the human-induced phenomenon, has released yet another damning report on the extent to which the world will suffer if emissions are not significantly reduced. On the heels of this 3,675 page report, a well known civil society group, A Fair Deal for Guyana – A Fair Deal for the Planet has renewed its call for citizens to sign their petition (located on its website at: https://fairdealforguyana.org/about. html) which calls for ExxonMobil and the Government of Guyana to halt the development of over 10 billion barrels of oil equivalent resources in the Stabroek Block. The group holds the view that the burning of the Stabroek Block resources could easily release over 4 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas and therefore turn Guyana into a carbon bomb. Given the impacts Guyana’s oil projects can have via emissions as well as from an unmitigated oil spill, the civil society campaign is demanding there be a pause on oil and gas operations until ExxonMobil guarantees that proper

Supporters of A Fair Deal for Guyana – A Fair Deal for the Planet during a previous protest action. environmental safeguards are in place to protect lands, ocean and climate; that there be a halt until ExxonMobil guarantees that it will pay for all environmental, social and economic damage across Guyana and the Caribbean as a result of any well blow-out or oil spill from their operations. It also believes the oil production must be paused until the Government of Guyana provides independent evidence that the benefits to the Guyanese people from the oil projects outweigh the costs.

The Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) and Heinrich Boell Foundation, a German, legally independent political foundation, recently published an analysis of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Report on Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability — the second part of the Sixth Assessment Report released February 26, 2022. Both organisations noted that the report confirms that irreversible damage is already occurring to natural

ecosystems, communities, and human rights, and will accelerate to an unprecedented scale and pace if global temperature rise surpasses 1.5°C. “In this latest report, the IPCC doesn’t just address the severe risks of irreversible harm posed by climate change itself. It also examines the significant risks introduced by human responses to climate change and how misguided measures may compound damage, erode resilience, and exacerbate vulnerabilities,” said Nikki Reisch,

Director of the Climate & Energy Program at CIEL. “Some of Working Group II’s most sobering findings were diluted or deleted from the final Summary for Policymakers approved by State Parties. But while Parties can water down wording, they cannot negotiate away the science,” continued Reisch. The CIEL official said the underlying chapters of the WGII report, including the technical s u m m a r y, l e a v e n o d o u b t : surpassing 1.5°C will lead to irreparable harm, whether or not a return to lower temperatures is even possible, while adding that technological carbon dioxide removal schemes will take decades to deploy at meaningful scales, in which time severe and irreversible harms could occur. The Director stated too that risky and uncertain technologies like Solar Radiation Management would not address the drivers of the climate crisis and would create significant new risks. In addition to this, the CIEL Director said policy choices that lock the world into overshooting 1.5°C and gambling on return, rather than immediately Continued on page 55

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Kaieteur News

Kendra Arianna Nauth, Kendra Arianna Nauth is a sophisticated 22-year-old beauty from Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice. When asked to describe herself she said, “First, I'm funny, I like to joke about anything. I think it lightens the mood.” She said too, “Spending time with my family and friends is important to me. I also volunteer in my community to carry out various activities. I'm intrigued by trying new foods, crazy hair colours and makeup. Lastly not to sound cliché, but I love reading, listening to music, long drives and being at beaches. It's where I find myself peaceful.”

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Sunday March 06, 2022

... BEATEN AND LEFT FOR DEAD

Bhojpaul Ramjas A medical miracle facilitated by SHEA Narine noted, “When I first heard of Bhojpaul’s story I couldn’t believe how much he was going through. I thought it was a fake story but I networked with some people in Guyana who were able to verify that his condition was true and I knew I had to help him,” Narine stated. She explained that Ramjas, was lying at home with flesh wounds on parts of his body, basically waiting to die. “He was suffering badly, his flesh being eaten away and he was in tremendous pain,” Narine added, as she spoke of the then 12 year-old Ramjas. According to her, his condition was as result of him being beaten by some older boys who bullied him into climbing a light pole and touching a live electrical wire. The boy had been bullied, beaten, burned and buried in mud, and left for dead until good Samaritans found him and took him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was admitted for treatment with deep

Bhojpaul Ramjas had been suffering with flesh wounds about his body before a medical miracle saved his life.

By Rehanna Ramsay

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any people would agree that the headlines of many news stories can really have a negative impact on a person’s mental health. From issues related to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic and now, the growing war in Europe, people often find themselves looking for the silver lining –a sign that not all is lost in the world and better days are ahead. For Guyana-born New Yorkbased medical charity founder, Lori Narine that omen came in the form of a photograph; a picture of one of the people her team helped provide medical aid for, some nine years ago. The patient, Bhojpaul Ramjas has matured into a healthy looking young man who is looking forward to celebrating his 21st birthday in coming weeks. The photograph of Ramjas is a far cry from the 12-year-old boy who was beaten and left for dead until the US-based Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA), Narine’s medical charity, intervened. The medical miracle as a result of SHEA’s intervention helped saved the young boy‘s life and serves as a beacon of inspiration, at least for Narine, in these trying times. As she related via her social media page, “Every now and then we find ourselves stopped in our tracks, feeling the need to pause to catch our breaths…This photo did it for me tonight as I am overwhelmed, with words escaping me, remembering the struggles and battles fought to help save this child. Blessed I am for the support I have received and the friends I made while managing his case,” she said of the photo that made her reminisce. The SHEA founder noted that Ramjas story has touched many hearts, locally and internationally.

“I am still in close contact with many of his medical team in the US, and they frequently speak of the impact he has made in their lives. They constantly remind me of how they carried him in their arms, because of his inability to sit or stand due to his injuries and the excruciating pain he was in. They acknowledge their gratitude to be part of his healing process. I am so happy for this now fully healed young man, and so very proud to be

in his corner always,” she said. Speaking to Kaieteur News about her relationship with the former SHEA patient, Narine said Ramjas’ story remains close to her. She noted that the former patient still messages her, especially on special dates. “For Mothers’ Day, my birthday or Christmas, he messages me and still stays in touch,” Narine said as she marvelled at how much Ramjas has grown.

The young Ramjas on the road to recovery surrounded by supporters and SHEA founder, Lori Narine at left.

Today, Bhojpaul Ramjas is a healthy young man looking forward to his 21st birthday on April 17. flesh burns to 36 percent of his body. After several months in the hospital, Ramjas was sent home. However, due to inadequate home care and lack of local medical treatment, he had recurring infections that ate away at his already fragile body. So, he laid in his bed and waited for either a miracle or death. This child suffered beyond the stretch of words until his aunt visited from the United States and started a campaign to help him. That’s when SHEA stepped in and made a difference in the young man’s life. SHEA Charity was contacted on September 8, 2015, and the group immediately began working in conjunction with the child’s aunt, Camille Ragnauth, to find treatment services to save his life. Several hospitals responded to their request for treatment, but most of them required upfront payment which was estimated at well over US$300,000. The Charity then started an online crowd-funding campaign to help offset some of the expenses. F o r t u n a t e l y, t h r o u g h m u c h networking, the group was able to find a hospital to accept Ramjas on a pro-bono basis. Within one month, the charity was able to coordinate his treatment services, secure medical visas, travel arrangements, housing and meals. “We also raised US$7,000 in cash through the online fundraiser, which paid for most of these fees, with the exception of his medical treatment costs,” the group said via its website. As such, Ramjas underwent the life-saving treatment and started on his journey to health. On March 7, 2016 he returned to Guyana a brand new person. He has been on the road to recovery and is now pain free and able to walk; something that he was not able to do before the surgery. Kaieteur News was able to speak with the young man who lives in Berbice via telephone. Ramjas, who appeared not too keen about the media attention, related very simply that he is forever grateful for the second chance at life he had been given.

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How soon is soon? Days after taking the oath of office, President Irfaan Ali promised then, that soon there would be a review of events related to the elections of 2nd March, 2020. He said that this would be to determine, forensically what happened and to hold those responsible for perverting the process. This statement, made by the President, was widely interpreted as indicating that there would be a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the attempt to steal the elections. One and a half years later, there has been no COI. Criminal charges have been filed against persons. But there are others who are believed to have been complicit in the plot to derail the elections. They are yet to be charged or subject to investigation for their actions. One year after his inauguration, President Ali again committed to an inquiry. He was quoted as saying that despite the ongoing court cases, his government was committed to identifying the individuals responsible for the election's fiasco and fraud. He made it clear that this was necessary to ensure that Guyana never again experiences “such a barefaced attempt at

facilitating attempts to steal an election.” He even said that the process had commenced to find suitable names to be part of the process. That was in August last year, more than six months ago. An international Commission of Inquiry is the best and fairest means to find out what happened between 2nd March, 2020 and 2nd August, of the same year. It is the best means of getting to the very bottom of it all and of fairly identifying and holding those responsible for perverting the elections. There was a similar attempt to upend the elections in the United States of America. Some people are of the view that the Republicans, having seen what happened in Guyana, attempted to do the same but when this failed, they opted for more drastic measures, including storming the Capitol, the seat of Congress. Criminal charges have been filed against persons who were involved in that riotous action. The law enforcement agencies are continuing to find those involved and press charges. However, the United States has also launched a Congressional inquiry into the incident. This inquiry is on-going and you can bet

that when it is completed those who are implicated, regardless of their political status, are going to have to face the consequences. While America is proceeding to purge its shame and to identify and punish those behind the attempt to storm the seat of Congress, the Guyana government appears to have abandoned the plan to investigate what happened in its elections. And one must ask why this is so. Unless those who were complicit in the plot to rig the 2020 elections are identified and held accountable, they will risk it again. Unless the political masterminds behind this plot are exposed and brought to justice, then there is bound to be future attempts to rig the elections. One of the defining features of the local election's environment was how many persons were determined not to allow the will of the people to be jeopardised. The young people in particular wanted nothing to do with rigged elections. They abhorred the dishonesty which took place and which was witnessed by the international observers. The failure to commence the COI into the elections of 2nd March, 2020 makes a mockery of the international

observers who were bold enough to indicate what they witnessed and refused to certify the bogus results which were being foisted onto the nation. It is imperative, therefore, that a Commission of Inquiry be held into what took place. The people of Guyana already know some of those who participated in actions aimed at perverting the tabulation of the ballots and the final results. But the plot had to have gone deeper and had to have involved persons within the ruling APNU+AFC. So who were the political masterminds behind this devious plot to destroy electoral democracy? Guyanese want to know

and deserve to know these things. While those who stood up in defence of democracy would also wish to be appreciated, the greater demand should be for bringing to justice those involved in the diabolical plot to return Guyana to political dictatorship. One Guyanese man took protest action outside the US embassy calling for sanctions. He died soon after. It would be a dishonour to his bravery to shelve the plan to have an inquiry into the elections. A COI will effectively serve these purposes. It will allow for witnesses to be summoned to give evidence about what took place. It will allow for

those witnesses to be interrogated about the evidence they give. The pussyfooting should cease. It is time to get the inquiry going. Guyana must not have to brace itself for a repeat performance in 2025. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that those who attempted to steal the elections are held accountable. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

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Sunday March 06, 2022

No busting of sanctions against Russia By Sir Ronald Sanders

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he Caribbean cannot escape the economic and financial consequences of the Russian Federation's invasion of the sovereign, independent nation of Ukraine. The effects of these consequences are already being felt in higher oil prices (at the time of writing, on March 3, the global oil

benchmark, rose to $113.94 a barrel, the highest since June 2014). They will intensify if the Russian action continues, forcing the world community to show its displeasure through the many sanctions that have been imposed on Russia, not only by countries but also on bodies responsible for international sport. R i g h t l y, C a r i b b e a n countries have participated

fully in expressing their disapproval of Russia's infringement of the United Nations Charter, the Charter of the Organization of American States and of international law by its unlawful, unjustified, and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. On February 24, all CARICOM states jointly issued a statement, making it clear that “the hostilities against Ukraine go counter

to the principles of respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of another sovereign state and the prohibition on the threat or use of force, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, which are the bedrock of this Community”. On February 25, all but four CARICOM countries, joined in co-sponsoring an OAS Declaration by more than two-thirds of its member states, led by Antigua and Barbuda and Guatemala, that “strongly condemn(ed) the unlawful, unjustified, and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation and call(ed) for the immediate withdrawal of the military presence and the cessation of any further military actions in that country”. On that same day, the UN Security Council failed to issue its own condemnatory resolution because Russia, exercised its veto, as one of five permanent members, to stop the resolution. The continued existence of a veto by any one of only five countries is a serious anomaly in today's world. Each of these countries can halt binding UN actions against their own violations, crippling the ability to censure them, as is evident from the Russian veto. After hesitation by some CARICOM countries to participate in the UN General Assembly meeting on Ukraine two days before the invasion, all of them were among the 141 nations at the Special Emergency Session, on March 2, that deplored “in the strongest terms the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine” and demanded “that Russia immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders”. It is, of course, right that CARICOM countries should adopt a strong position on any country that violates international law by invading other nations, and by seeking to alter the settled borders of countries by force. Within CARICOM, Ve n e z u e l a t h r e a t e n s

G u y a n a ' s territorial integrity and Guatemala threatens Belize's. In the case of Guatemala and Belize, they have both agreed to seeking a peaceful settlement through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and Guatemala has led from the front in condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, Venezuela has refused to accept the jurisdiction of the ICJ, and its President is reported to have stated his support for Russia's unlawful actions against Ukraine. At the meeting of the OAS, where the overwhelming number of countries made a declaration condemning the Russian invasion, I stated on behalf of Antigua and Barbuda the following: “Small and military powerless states depend upon adherence and respect to the agreed and settled principles that are set out in the UN Charter and in international law. When these principles are flouted and international law is violated, small states are obliged to speak out loudly in our own interest as much as in the interest of nations that are the actual victims of aggression”. And, that is the crux of t h e m a t t e r. When international law is breached, the wall that safeguards the interest of small states crumbles, exposing them to the aggression of others; and that aggression can come in many forms, not only military. In any event, the action of Russia in Ukraine is now so vicious, so inhumane and so alarming that no rightminded society anywhere in the world can do anything but forcefully condemn it. Innocent people, including children and babies, are being killed in their homes as Russia bombards them with long-range missiles in the Russian government's attempt to seize control of their country. Nothing could justify such brutal and cowardly behaviour. In standing up for an immediate end to the unjustified violence and slaughter in Ukraine, and for the sanctions that have been imposed on Russia, the 141 countries that voted at the UN, and the 25 that voted at the OAS, including all CARICOM states, were also

Sir Ronald Sanders standing up for the protection of themselves from the tyranny of more militarily powerful countries. They were standing up for human values of the right to life and the right to live in peace within secure borders. In every society, there are those who seek to gain from misfortune and misery. Sadly, there is already some speculation in the Caribbean that governments should allow private companies to profit from busting sanctions against Russia by accommodating, for instance, the yachts of the Russian Oligarchs who have become billionaires through their cosy relationships with the Russian government. Still others complain about the higher prices that they will have to pay for commodities, such as oil and its related uses. But such persons should be reminded that freedom and the protection of human life and dignity come by defending what is right and by some sacrifice. Higher prices will have to be paid for a time, but it is worth the freedom and rights that all humanity deserves. To see the sacrifice for rights and freedom, we need look no further than the courage of the Ukrainian people – men, women and children – who are confronting Russian military tanks and weaponry with nothing in their hands but the flag of their besieged nation. In the Caribbean, we should remind those, who advocate sanctions busting for short term gain, of the biblical admonition: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?” (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, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are his own) Responses and previous c o m m e n t a r i e s : www.sirronaldsanders.com

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THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Confessions and reflections: Autobiographical notes W

hat more appropriate time to reflect on my life than on the anniversary of the attempt to rig the March 2020 general election. It was a turning point in my life. The event has provided me with an opportunity to assess my long years in politics. One of the nuances of life I have been grappling with is the question of how does one shape and evaluate one's moral values in a complex world where some choices are hard to live with but you accept them and exist with them knowing that you have accepted actions and motives that are questionable. Can one cope with the conscious perception that some of the values you carry with you can be opened to serious questioning? I think that throughout my decades of activism, I have done things to redeem

myself. The description of my faults and acts of redemption contained in this column will be in my memoir if I ever get around to writing it. I entered politics as a polling agent for the PPP in the 1968 general election at St Thomas Moore Primary School on D'Urban Street, Wortmanville, next to my house. From there I went on to work at the Michael Forde Bookshop of the PPP. From those days right up to 2022, I have been associated with people some of whom were absolutely no good and will never be good. But I wanted to change Guyana and the world so I accepted that the world is not pure and simple and you have to endure and wait until you could assert yourself. Three of us moved on from the PPP. As a teenager you were young and idealistic and you expected people to embrace the very things they preach.

I met someone in the PPP that I admired and loved – EMG Wilson nicknamed “Cocoa”. We followed “Cocoa” into the East-GermanGuyana Friendship Society where I met Boyo Ramsaroop, the father of the former famous AFC activist, Gerhard Ramsaroop. It was the same there. You met people who did not practice what they preached, except “Cocoa.”My 70s were filled with WPA activities and I saw most graphically the failings and flaws of people who wanted freedom, justice and liberation for Guyana but didn't have the moral qualities to bring them about. But I stuck with the WPA because the bigger picture was the removal of Burnham and the PNC. This is what perplexes me. Why does one remain a comrade of those who you know are of little difference with the leaders they want to remove? After the WPA, the

next stop was the AFC. My life continued with the same pattern. But I found redemption in portraying who I was and will always be. I spoke my mind in both the WPA and AFC, kept away from any close association with the flawed middle class leaders, and immersed myself in the world of the working class members of the WPA and AFC. In the WPA, I was close to only one leader –Moses Bhagwan. In the AFC, it was Khemraj Ramjattan. It still drives angst in me to see how horrible their politics have degenerated. My wife can tell you, our home was always filled with the third level leaders of the WPA. She came to know Osaze, Mobutu, Ogunseye and Ali Majeed very well because I was close to them. In the AFC, she came to know Michael Carrington because he was a frequent visitor to our home. Here is

an example of my redemption. During the 2015 election campaign, the AFC printed and pasted on the wall, a list of names only permitted to enter the second level of the head office. By that time, I was a larger name in politics than most AFC leaders and a bigger catch at campaign meeting but I never allowed that to go to my head. I never went upstairs and never requested my name be put on the list as others did. I was satisfied to make my contribution from the lower flat of the building. I wanted changes to come in my country for the better. The AFC was an avenue, like the WPA was in the 1970s. Never for a moment did I lock out of my mind since my teenager days that I was in the midst of people who were no different from the leaders they wanted to remove. Up to this day, it leaves a taste of

Frederick Kissoon e mptiness and lost dreams. I leave you with some words from the Anne Murray hit song, “Snowbird” “When I was young my heart was young then, too Anything that it would tell me, that's the thing that I w o u l d d o But now I feel such emptiness within For the thing that I want most in life's the thing that I can't win” (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

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Pneumonia: It's the main cause of death for many COVID-19 patients By Dr. Zulfikar Bux Emergency Medicine Specialist One of the cruelest ways to die is to slowly suffocate from lung damage from COVID-19. Often, this lung damage is because of the pneumonia caused by this dreaded disease. Almost half of COVID19 deaths are because of respiratory failure with many often being because of pneumonia. Pneumonia is not specific to COVID-19 and can be caused by many other infections. Understanding what pneumonia is can be helpful given that early treatment can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is often caused by an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus (purulent material), causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. This leads to blocked air

sacs where oxygen cannot pass through, causing the affected person to struggle to breathe. A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia. In Guyana, it becomes more prevalent during the rainy season and therefore we should try to have a better understanding of it given that the rains have just started. W h a t c a u s e s p n e u m o n i a ? Many germs can cause pneumonia. The most common are bacteria and viruses in the air we breathe. Yo u r b o d y u s u a l l y prevents these germs from infecting your lungs. But sometimes these germs can overpower your immune system, even if your health is generally good. In the case of COVID-19, the coronavirus (Sars-Cov-2) is the germ that's responsible for overpowering the immune system and causing p n e u m o n i a . What are symptoms of pneumonia? The signs and symptoms

of pneumonia vary from mild to severe, depending on factors such as the type of germ causing the infection, and your age and overall health. Mild signs and symptoms often are similar to those of a cold or flu, but they last longer. Signs and symptoms of pneumonia may include: ● Fever, sweating and shaking chills ● Cough, which may produce phlegm ● Chest pain when you breathe or cough ● Shortness of breath ● Fatigue ● Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea Newborns and infants may not show any sign of the infection. They may vomit, have a fever and cough, appear restless or tired and without energy, or have difficulty breathing and eating. Who's more at risk? Those with any of the following conditions are more at risk for acquiring pneumonia: ● a weakened immune

system, either due to disease such as HIV/AIDS or cancer, or to medications that suppress immune function ● infants and children 2 years of age or younger ● age 65 and older ● having a chronic disease such as cystic fibrosis, COPD, sickle cell anemia, asthma, heart disease, or diabetes ● swallowing or coughing problems, as may occur following stroke or other brain injury ● Persons that are malnourished ● Cigarette smoking especially chronic smokers How is pneumonia treated? The treatment of pneumonia depends on the cause, the severity of the disease and the doctors' findings. Symptomatic treatment along with appropriate

antibiotic therapy is the mainstay of pneumonia treatment. This should only be decided by a doctor and you should not attempt to take antibiotics on your own. Sometimes –as in the case of COVID-19 – your body cannot fight off the pneumonia and you may need hospitalisation to receive oxygen and if it gets worse, you may have to be placed on a ventilator that helps you to breathe. When should you visit a doctor? See your doctor if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent fever of 102 F (39 C) or higher or persistent cough, especially if you're coughing up yellow sputum. Individuals with any of the previously listed risk factors should visit a doctor if they begin to present with any of the symptoms of

p n e u m o n i a . Pneumonia has a death rate that ranges from 5-10 percent and should not be taken lightly. Now that you have a better idea of what pneumonia is, you should not hesitate to visit your doctor if you suspect you are having symptoms of the disease. Accessing early care will allow for timely treatment which will decrease your chances of having severe lifethreatening forms of pneumonia.

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DEAR READER, IN LIGHT OF THE ECONOMIC IMPACT CAUSED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, OUR PUBLISHER, WITH YOU IN MIND, HAS TAKEN THE DECISION TO EXTEND OUR WEEKLY REVIEW OF SOME OF OUR MAJOR STORIES INTHEIR ENTIRETY. SUNDAY EXPLAIN “DANGEROUS” REVERSAL OF FULL COVERAGE INSURANCE REQUIREMENT BY EXXON - FORMER EPA BOSS TO GOVT. …SAYS COMPANY HADAGREED TO COVER DAMAGES BEYOND US$2.5B Guyana’s Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo recently said that the Environmental Protection Agency (E PA) has assumed the responsibility of securing an insurance policy from the country’s major oil operator, ExxonMobil, in the event of an oil spill. The coverage being negotiated, he said, was around US$2 billion but the former head of the EPA, Dr. Vincent Adams is demanding that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government explain its decision to reverse an agreement, which the EPA formerly had with the operator to not only guarantee US$2.5 billion from its subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) but also cover damages that exceed this amount. In a letter to this newspaper, Dr. Adams explained that prior to his services being terminated in August 2020 by the incumbent administration, ExxonMobil had agreed to offer the country full coverage insurance, since its permit for the second project, Liza Phase 2 was being held at ransom. According to him, “Exxon did indeed agree in writing, to have full liability coverage, and we were close to celebrating ‘mission accomplished’ when at the last moment in August 2020, defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory by the incoming PPP/C Government, when they inexplicably, stopped finalisation of the EPA/Exxon Agreement to realise this full liability coverage”. He went on to explain that the Liza 1 project was the first to receive an oil and gas permit by the EPA in June 2017, issued by Mr. Kemraj Parsram, the current Head of the EPA who was at the time the acting head, prior to Dr.

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Adams’ appointment. This permit was issued to the company with “self insurance” as allowed by the 2016 Petroleum Agreement, between the Coalition government and permit holder EEPGL, which acts under the guidance of ExxonMobil, Hess, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). Self-insurance, Dr. Adams clarified, means that EEPGL would bear all financial liabilities thus is exempt from having to obtain any outside insurance. “However, the snag in this deal is that EEPGL, as a newly formed limited liability company, did not, and does not, have any assets to cover any such liabilities,” he explained. Cognisant of this fact, the former EPA boss said that efforts were then made by himself and team to bring Exxon to the table to discuss the insurance policy. In fact, he said that Exxon was clearly told that the flaws in the Liza 1 permit would have to be corrected before its second and future projects could be approved. After several months of delay, ExxonMobil finally agreed to offer Guyana full coverage insurance, Dr. Adams said. He detailed, in his more than 1,000 words missive, that Exxon obtained the highest insurance available on the market, to the value of US$2.5 billion, “proclaiming it to be adequate coverage”. However, given that BP’s Macondo spill in the Gulf of Mexico was costing approximately US$70 billion, the former EPA head said that this offer was denied since such a meager coverage could leave Guyana bankrupt as well as expose the country to lawsuits from neighbouring countries affected by a possible spill. To this end, he said that the EPA then demanded that the parent companies – ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC – cover all liability costs over and above the $2.5 billion insurance. “Exxon eventually acceded to our immovable demand for parent companies cover above the $2.5 billion insurance; but asked that we sign the Liza 2 Permit, so as to maintain confidence in their investors, while affording time for the parent companies to agree upon how they will share the liabilities,” Dr. Adams shared. He added, “Exxon’s request was deemed an easy no-risk concession, since the Liza 2 start-up was not scheduled until three years hence in 2022, and couldn’t start anyway without the Agreement. Therefore, we

Protesters continued to demand change to Exxon’s contracts

issued the Liza 2 Permit in mid2019, requiring full coverage to be carried by a combination of the $2.5 billion insurance, with all of the remainder to be carried by EEPGL’s parent companies”. Subsequent to the issuance of the Liza 2 permit when the agreement was nearing finalisation, Dr. Adams said he and the Attorney that was handling the matter at the EPA, were removed from their posts in August 2020. The following month, he said, he was shocked to see that Exxon’s third project, the Payara development, had been approved without the formerly agreed upon full coverage insurance. In this regard, the former Executive Director of the EPA wrote, “As protector of the nation’s economy, environment and health, the Government owes it to its people, to explain why it has taken such a dangerous step in taking the country from agreed upon full liability coverage to no coverage”. Elaborating on the importance of full coverage insurance, Dr. Adams said that Guyana’s rapid increase in oil operations over the next few years will also bring with it equivalent dangers associated with an oil spill. He reasoned, “The gross inadequacy of the Government’s oil spill Emergency Response Plan, which I refused to sign due to documented justifiable reasons; and the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) showing that a major spill could be just as devastating or worse than the BP Macondo spill, with oil washing away the Caribbean

beaches and their economies all the way to Jamaica, resulting in Guyana’s and its neighbouring countries environmental destruction, obliteration of the fishing industry, and economic bankruptcy including possible lawsuits from neighbouring countries and other affected parties,” all highlight the need for an adequate insurance coverage. Last week, the Shadow Oil and Gas Minister on the Opposition benches of the National Assembly, David Patterson submitted a Motion to Parliament calling for liability insurance coverage in the event of an oil spill disaster. He proposed that Exxon’s fourth project, the Yellowtail Development, be used as leverage by the government to ensure that the country gets full coverage insurance. GOVT. SCRAPS US$12.5M ENMORE PACKAGING PLANT TO BUILD NEW ONE AT ALBION, EXPANDANOTHER AT BLAIRMONT Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), Sasenarine Singh recently revealed that the government is planning to build a new packaging plant at Albion along with the expansion of one at Blairmont for 2022. During a recent online interview, Singh said this is all part of a design to be able to sell sugar at a higher value and to ensure the country has enough capacity to produce packaged sugar products for the international market as it opens up. Singh was pleased to

announce that the government is already making headway in opening new markets while noting that GuySuCo was able to successfully open a Jamaican market. The CEO said too that last year the government was successful in opening up markets in Grenada and even secured sugar sales for the first time to Germany. Singh said, “…So we are opening markets and people love the Guyana sugar…It is important that we continue this programme of getting the revenue and at the same time revising our cost plans. Last year, we cut $175M from headquarter’s budget and that took a lot of resistance but people are now buying into the idea of the long-term sustainability of the industry.” While the CEO says plans are afoot to increase the nation’s packaging capacity for sugar, fresh questions and concerns have been raised regarding the government’s genuine intention in this regard. Just days after Singh made the foregoing revelation, it was subsequently revealed to the nation that the country’s US$12.5M Enmore Packaging Plant is being leased to a local joint venture group for the purpose of transforming the national asset to a manufacturing hub to support the oil sector. Many observers held the view that if it is the government’s aim to increase the country’s packaging capability, why would it scrap the operation of the Enmore facility, only to spend millions more then establish another. Observers thought it would be prudent for the government to keep the Enmore packaging facility

while adding Albion and Blairmont to the mix. The situation has left many industry analysts perplexed. With respect to the deal with the joint venture group, Kaieteur News reported last week that it was on February 16, 2022 Guysons K+B Industries Inc. (GKB), a 52 percent Guyanese-owned joint venture, acquired the US$12.5M Enmore Packaging Plant. Over time, the deal entered into between the government and the company will allow the latter to acquire the accompanying 55-acre plot of sugar lands to support its venture. Last week as well, Guysons K+B Industries released a statement to defend its business record and the intention of its new venture in wake of growing concerns raised in the local press about the deal. The company was keen to note that its record of investment in Guyana and its people dates back to 1992 when Guysons Engineering was founded in West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, a then economically depressed community. After nearly three decades of growth and prosperity, Guysons shared that it teamed up with the USbased K+B Industries, a leader in manufacturing, engineering and machining in 2020, to ramp up services provided to the oil and gas sector. It said that a key investment that the joint venture, GKB, committed to make is in the people of the East Bank corridor, plugging US$37.5 million (GY$7.5 billion) to establish the Enmore Manufacturing Plant, a state-of-the-art Oilfield (Continued on page 29)

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From page 28 Services facility. The company said a minimum of 50 acres of land is required to effectively deliver OCTG & Premium Accessory Services to the O&G Sector and for this, GKB engaged the Government. GKB said it proposed a site closer to port facilities in Georgetown but saw merit in the “Government’s recommendation of Enmore.” Importantly, GKB said its lease is for the Enmore packaging facility, not the Sugar Estate, which is approximately 100,000 sq. feet. “To build such a facility would take an estimated 18-24 months, whilst the Enmore Sugar Packaging Plant can be repurposed and become operational, almost immediately, preserving jobs currently held at the Plant, with a guarantee of a minimum of 150 by end of year one and a minimum of 500 by end of year five,” the company stated. It further noted that the OCTG and Premium Accessory Service that GKB intends to provide is currently outsourced to Trinidad and Tobago, the United States of America, and farther afield. “This initiative would increase commercial activity on the East Coast corridor and tap into considerable foreign exchange earning potential, bringing greater Oil & Gas revenues to Guyana. Significantly, this would be the first time ever that these services are provided in-country,” GKB reasoned, while adding, “The total investment of US$37.5 million (G$7.5 billion) into the East Coast corridor is unmatched.” GKB further stated that it endeavours to train residents of the East Coast corridor and plans to create and guarantee 150 jobs in the first year with an initial injection of US$7.5 million (GY$1.5 billion). Within three to five years, GKB said that the guaranteed number will increase to 500 jobs while reiterating that it has committed to rehiring 100 percent of the workers currently employed at the Enmore Packaging Plant. “We will see to it that our expansion uplifts economicallydepressed communities of the East Coast corridor with sustainable jobs which will serve as a revitalising lifeline for its youth and laid off sugar workers. GKB has also agreed to strict land development timelines and milestones over the first three years that will be monitored as the phased development occurs,” the company stated. In a February 17, 2021 report, Kaieteur News had noted that the new manufacturing facility at Enmore will be set up to manufacture and repair tubular goods such as drill pipes, drill covers, etc., needed by oil companies to develop oil fields. GKB will also offer premium threading of the tubular goods, accessory services and Turnkey manufacturing solutions in the country. As it relates to the arrangement between the government and GKB for the lands and the US$12.5M packaging plant owned by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), GKB’s Chief Executive

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Office, Fazil Khan was willing to share some details with this newspaper in an exclusive interview. Despite negotiations are still ongoing between the two parties, Khan said that an agreement has been made for his company to purchase 25 acres of the land, lease another 25 and also lease the packaging plant on a long-term lease. Consultant Advisor on the project, Rosh Khan, who spoke with this publication also pointed out that GKB will not be granted all of the lands at one time. He explained that GKB will begin with 25 acres and the packaging plant which spans an area of at least five acres. In order to lease the remaining 25, it will first have to complete all of the commitments it made with Guyana. GKB’s CEO, Fazil Khan confirmed this and noted too that considerations were also taken to safeguard against a scenario where Exxon can pull out. “You don’t want to invest or buy and then Exxon pulls out of Guyana because it can happen and you can lose,” Khan had said. Asked if any agreement has been with the government on the purchase and lease price, Khan responded that these are still in the process of being negotiated. However, the CEO assured that it will be a fair one for both parties and revealed that his company has committed to an overall commitment of US$60M towards the development of the project. Out of this amount, Khan said, more than US$7M has already been expended. The CEO further highlighted that the lands it is acquiring are “sugar lands”, which will have to be developed in order to become a standard facility. “We will have to do some land filling, land clearing, probably install some streetlights and so on before we can start up the facility,” explained Khan.

MONDAY GUYANA BEARS SIX MOST DANGEROUS RISKS IN CHINESE-OWNEDAMAILA FALL HYDRO PROJECT - NATION SHOULD BE ENRAGED – GLENN LALL While the Government seems bent on creating a picturesque image for Guyanese of what the reimagined Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project (AFHP) will do for Guyana, the reality is far from the dream that is being sold to citizens. This is according to Kaieteur News publisher, Glenn Lall. Lall, via this newspaper and The Glenn Lall Show radio programme, has been heavily critical of the government when it comes to their imprudent spending of taxpayers’ dollars. In his most recent exposé, Lall during his radio programme, aired last week, spoke at length on the upcoming hydroelectric project. The plan to restart the “controversial” 165 megawatt (MW) AFHP comes more than a decade after millions of US dollars was spent to construct the first hydropower project at Amaila Falls, which never materialised. Under the new deal, the Chinese operator – China Railway First Group – is expected to Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) ownership of the plant to Guyana after 20 years. Under this model, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration is claiming that Guyana will bear no risks, but the KN publisher pointed to what he believes is a deliberate omission by the Head of the project, Winston Brassington, during the recently concluded Energy Conference. During the conference, Brassington gave attendees a glowing presentation on how much the US$700M project, to be built by the Chinese, will do for the country. He told those gathered of how the project will significantly reduce the cost for electricity and how the

Chinese will build it for less than the original cost which was calculated some 10 years ago. The government’s spokesman and project head also claimed that Guyana will bear no risks in the operation of the project. But, according to Lall, a perusal of Brassington’s entire presentation proves that this cannot be farther from the truth. The newspaper owner and prudent businessman noted that Brassington hid the details of the proposed projects from the public. According to Lall, a closer look at the information on a power-point presentation for the project done by Brassington revealed massive risks for Guyana. “For you who didn’t know, the contract to start building this Amaila Falls Hydro Project with the Chinese company already signed since November last year. The details were not told to Guyana. We only learn a little of it last week from the man, President Ali and Jagdeo put in front - Winston Brassington. But when he spoke at the conference, he didn’t tell us the full story with the whole truth,” Lall told his audience. He stressed that while Brassington described the project as a transformational project for Guyana that will reduce the cost of electricity significantly, with no risks to the nation, is simply not true. He noted that based on the information provided by the project head, the Chinese developer will build, own and operate the project but Guyana will bear the brunt of the risks. Using excerpts from Brassington’s presentation, Lall sought to further quality his argument. “Listen to him as he describes the project in his own words. Brassington told the audience that Guyana has no risk, from one side of his tongue, but from the other side… the project lists 10 risks,” Lall said. According to the publisher, during his presentation, Brassington only mentioned four risks, which the

Chinese are expected to bear. But according to Lall, what “the Chinese took on are not really risks that would hurt their pockets but the other six, that would really hurt our pockets, Brassington throw on Guyana.” “Yes, this same man that say this project ain’t gon cost Guyana any money, with no risk, now stands with the six most dangerous risks and he didn’t mention all of them to the audience but they were on the slide he was showing during his presentation,” an irate Lall underscored. Among the statements the project head made was that the government “will not guarantee the project; they’re going to guarantee the performance of Guyana Power and Light (GPL).” Moreover Lall queried, “What does that mean Winston Brassington? What do those words mean? Government not guaranteeing the project but guaranteeing the performance of GPL. I don’t get it. This man is saying that government is going to guarantee GPL’s payments to the Chinese people and Guyana has no risks? Government not guaranteeing the project, but guaranteeing the payments?” He then went on to note that, according to Brassington, “‘the Chinese will obtain political risk insurance and these sorts of things.’” But according to Lall, “When you hear these people use expressions like ‘these sorts of things’ watch out, is a scheme in the making! Political risk insurance – you know what that means – if for whatever reason you have political disturbance and that project gets messed up, the Chinese is covered by insurance. You hear how he telling Guyana that the Chinese company will obtain political risk insurance to safeguard them but you can’t hear him saying that Guyana should and must be protected with full cover insurance from the oil companies?” Emphasizing that the Chinese company will not bear any significant risk, the businessman pointed out that “although he didn’t come out clear and say who will be taking that geotechnical risk, the slide says it. The Geotechnical risk simply means the foundation you going and put the project on, and guess what? We had already paid in 2012 to test the foundation.” Lall informed his audience that the government is in fact using the same contract that was developed in 2012 and which was already vetted by international experts. “…So we know that the foundation solid to handle that project, so there is no risk there, but Brassington slide say the operators will take that risk, when there is no risk there!” Lall maintained. The publisher also turned his attention to the hydrology risk, which was placed on Guyana. He explained that this one is a major risk, which Brassington said GPL is assuming responsibility for. “Hydrology simply mean water –the water flow; the water supply. (Continued on page 30)

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From page 29 If there is enough water or not to power the plant, that is GPL’s headache, GPL’s responsibility, GPL’s risk. GPL got to find water and fetch that water to give to the plant to generate electricity to send to Georgetown and if GPL can’t do that, they have to pay the Chinese man he straight money signed by the contract – how you like that?” a passionate Lall shared. The businessman went on to note that while the contract provides for allocation of force majeure risk, Brassington glossed over that point to speak about megawatts, without telling Guyana who is responsible for the force majeure risk. The force majeure risk is unforeseeable circumstances that would prevent the company from fulfilling its contract. “You know why it didn’t come out his mouth? Is because Guyana is responsible for that risk too,” Lall stated. Convinced that the nation should be enraged, the publisher noted that under this agreement, “every single cent of the so called Chinese developer is guaranteed. Win, lose or draw, you have to pay them for the next 20 years.” He added too that “all payments to the Chinese must be done in American dollars...They don’t want to hear nothing bout Guyana dollars, the investor tie this deal and this business to one currency only, American dollars,” he said. TUESDAY DANGEROUS AND MISLEADING FOR BRASSINGTON TO TELL NATION NO RISKS IN AMAILA HYRO DEAL- RAM Not only is it “nonsense” but it is also “absurd” to tell a nation that a renewable energy project will not be of any risk to a country. This is according to prominent transparency advocate, Chartered Accountant and Attorney-atLaw, Christopher Ram in an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News. Ram’s comments come on the heels of the announcement made by the Amaila Falls Hydropower project head, Winston Brassington, who told the foreign dominated audience at the recently concluded International Energy Conference and Expo, that Guyana will not bear any risks, but instead the contractor, China Railway First Group. According to the activist, “I think it’s absurd to suggest

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that a 20-year project that relies on several variables, including climate change and water flows has no risks. It’s nonsense to say that.” He added, “Until we see the agreement, we do not know and cannot say for sure who will bear the risks if the project cannot deliver as it is intended to. What we do know for sure is that the Chinese are not in the business of bearing risks in any third world country and that the only people who will meet all the costs, risks and the obligations will be the people of Guyana.” Brassington told the conference while providing an update on the project that, “like any large project there is a lot of risks in these projects but most of these risks have been put to the developer.” He, however, glided over the burdens Guyana will bear as a result of the project, even though the country is bracing to face six of the most dangerous risks associated with the project. These include hydrological, which means if the falls run dry due to climate change, or if the 23 square kilometres reservoir is unable to feed the hydro plant, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) would bear the incurred liability. Secondly, Guyana will be responsible for political force majeure, that is, if the government changes its mind about the project, it would still have to pay the Chinese contractor for its investment. The third risk Guyana will stand, along with China Railway, is ‘other force majeure’. This relates to damage to the plant, by unforeseen circumstances. Two other risks will be borne by GPL if the Amaila Falls project fails to meet the electricity demand. Given that the project head failed to highlight these risks, Ram told this newspaper, “It is dangerous, misleading and irresponsible for anyone to make the kinds of claims and statements Mr. Brassington is reported to have made to an international audience.” The Amaila Fall Hydropower project is presently pegged at US$700M. The developer, China Railway First Group was awarded the Build Own Operate Transfer (BOOT) project to hopefully deliver 156 megawatts (MW) of electricity upon its completion. Under the BOOT arrangement, Brassington said Guyana would, in 20 years’ time, take over ownership of the project. He did, during his

Alistair Routledge Chief Executive Officer - ExxonMobil Guyana

presentation, seek to point out that during the three-anda-half-year period expected for construction, an independent supervision firm would be hired by the administration to ensure the hydroelectric plant is built to specifications. This is in addition to the recruitment of an Operations and Management consultant. With Guyana taking ownership of the project 20 years after commissioning, Brassington noted that the project’s average price measured over that time period would be about 7.7 cents which is largely going towards the repayment of the US$700M financing. According to Brassington, the project will be funded by China Rail and Chinese institutions. They will own the project and it will be operated under a concession for 20 years. At end of the 20 years, he said, it will be handed over to government at no cost and as such, “I think this a great project.” EXXON DEFENDS THROWING LIMITED INSURANCE COVERAGE TO GUYANA - AS IT MILKS MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR PROFITS FROM NATION’S OIL RESOURCES Head of Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), Alistair Routledge, on Monday sought to defend the size of the insurance policy provided by the ExxonMobil subsidiary which has been the Operator of the oil rich Stabroek Block since 1999. His commentary comes on the heels of an eight-year bashing, particularly from Kaieteur News, on the need for ExxonMobil Corporation, the parent company of EEPGL, to formally agree that it would handle all costs, above and beyond what cannot be met by EEPGL, for an unmitigated oil spill from its operations. In a statement to the press, Routledge did not confirm or deny that ExxonMobil

Corporation, which milks multi-billion dollar profits from Guyana, has a moral and legal obligation to ensure that it protects the environment and the citizens of the countries its subsidiaries operate in. He did, however, defend the US$2B insurance coverage EPPGL is throwing at Guyana. Routledge is of the view that the size of the policy is in keeping with international industry standards. Routledge assured as well that for every project in Guyana, EEPGL has put in place mitigations and processes that help to prevent adverse events by utilising the best technologies, equipment, and people in our operations. Importantly, EEPGL had made the same claim prior to the Liza Phase One Project coming on stream. When it did, the vessel’s gas compressor was subsequently plagued with a series of mechanical issues which led to over 14 billion standard cubic feet of gas being burnt. This form of environmental pollution has been taking place from December 2019, when oil production started, to now. The company has pledged to have the said issues fixed by mid-year and bring an end to the toxic pollution of the nation’s airspace. Despite such failings, Routledge is still asking the Guyanese citizenry to trust that the limited liability company he heads is capable of handling all the fiscal implications of an oil spill, should it occur. Expounding further, he said, “ExxonMobil maintains the industry’s only sustained, dedicated and in-house oilspill response research programme, which dates back to the 1970s. Here in Guyana, we adhere to an internationally accepted, tiered response system used to determine the requirements of response personnel and equipment.” The EEPGL head said, “This system remains aligned with the principles of the International Convention on

Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (OPRC), the Caribbean Island Oil Pollution Preparedness Response and Cooperation (OPRC), and the National Oil Spill Response Plan of Guyana to provide an efficient framework to build preparedness and response capabilities matching the oil spill risks from all types of operations.” Further to this, Routledge sought to address commentary in the local press on “full coverage” insurance and guarantees. He said those comments have inaccurately suggested that ExxonMobil Guyana will not be able to effectively manage response activities. He was keen to note that insurance is just one source of financial assurance that could be leveraged for response activities while adding, “The value of insurance will not limit the company’s ability to respond to an event, and response activities would certainly not be delayed by discussions with insurers.” Routledge continued, “We have the financial capacity to meet our responsibilities for an adverse event and we are committed to paying all legitimate costs in the unlikely event of an oil spill.” Additionally, Routledge boasted of his company’s assets as he noted that up to the end of 2020, EEPGL had almost US$5.0B in assets, which is a primary form of financial assurance. He said citizens should note that this is separate from the assets of the other Stabroek Block coventurers who also have substantial assets and share any liability for response activities. In addition, Routledge said EEPGL is working with the Environmental Protection Agency and its co-venturers, Hess Corporation and CNOOC Group, to put in place a combined US$2B of affiliate company guarantees. Routledge stressed that this value exceeds equivalent guarantees required by regulators in Canada, the

United States and United Kingdom. The EEPGL head also denied that there was any previous agreement for insurance valuing US$2.5B with a previous EPA administration. “As stated by ExxonMobil Chairman and CEO Darren Woods at the recent International Energy Conference, ExxonMobil is committed to Guyana for the long term. ExxonMobil Guyana has invested billions of dollars in multiple oil and gas projects here. We are dedicated to avoiding any spill, but should one occur, we are prepared to mitigate and resolve it as quickly and comprehensively as possible,” Routledge concluded. WEDNESDAY AMAILA FALLS HYDRO DEAL… DR. ASHNI SINGH PUTS OUT 11-MINUTE VIDEO DEFENDING PROJECT BUT SILENT ON SIX MOST DANGEROUS RISKS THROWN ON GUYANA Even as concerns continue to swell regarding the “controversial” Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project (AFHP), specifically how exactly Guyanese will benefit from the multi-million project versus the risks, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Monday evening issued an 11-minute video statement in defence of the project. The Senior Minster attempted to create a picturesque image of what the re-imagined project will do for Guyana. But what was evidently absent from his defence was the six most dangerous risks the project throws on Guyana. The plan to restart the “controversial” 165 megawatts (MW) AFHP comes more than a decade after millions of US dollars were spent to construct the first hydropower project at Amaila Falls, which never materialised. Under the new deal, the Chinese operator – China Railway First Group – is expected to Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) ownership of the plant to Guyana after 20 years. Under this model, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration is claiming that Guyana will bear no risks. But Kaieteur News (KN) publisher, Glenn Lall, has urged citizens, via his radio programme called The Glenn Lall Show, to be vigilant (Continued on page 31)

Sunday March 06, 2022

From page 30 about the ramifications of this project and the deal associated with it. Lall on the show said his warning in this regard is premised on a recent presentation by the Head of the project, Winston Brassington, at the International Energy Conference and Expo-2022 which was held at the Marriott Hotel. In response to the KN Publisher’s word of caution to citizens via the radio show and newspaper articles, Dr. Singh thought it prudent to release a video response in defence of the project. The Senior Minister, while speaking to State media, used 11 minutes to lash out at critics and expressed the government’s “grave disappointment at the campaign of misinformation that is being waged in relation to the major developmental project.” Dr. Singh went on to talk about the project being backed by international experts, who carefully examined it. He stated too that pre-2014, the then PPP/C administration “had a major, large, credible international investor who was ready and willing to invest in this project.” The senior minister said notwithstanding the willingness and readiness of the investor, the then APNU+AFC coalition used its one-seat majority while in opposition to “derail” and “frustrate” the project. Now that the PPP/C is back in office, and is making rapid progress on the project, Dr. Singh said the “naysayers” are back with the same objective they had during the pre-2015 period, which is “to frustrate development and to make sure that the people of Guyana do not enjoy development.” “We are firmly and unwaveringly committed to delivering development to the people of Guyana. Whether it is in energy infrastructures so that we can increase our electricity generation, reduce the cost of electricity generation, improve the reliability of electricity generation and distribution with a view to promoting not only lower electricity bills for people at home, but to lower electricity bills for investors who are dependent on electricity for their economic activity. Things like manufacturing enterprises, which will, in turn, generate jobs, create jobs for Guyanese people, generate incomes for Guyanese people,” Dr. Singh further noted. While the Minister is bent on creating a quaint image of

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this project, with reference to only the project’s perceived “benefits”– he failed to inform the citizens about the six most dangerous risks the country faces with the said initiative. During the energy conference that was held from February 15 to 18, 2022, Brassington gave attendees a glowing presentation on how much the US$700 million project to be built by the Chinese, will do for the country. He told those who gathered of how the project will significantly reduce the cost of electricity and how the Chinese will build it for less than the original cost which was calculated some 10 years ago. The government’s spokesman and project head also claimed that Guyana will bear no risks in the operation of the project. However, the reality is far from the dream that was sold to citizens. A perusal of Brassington’s entire

presentation, in fact proves that what he told the attendees at the conference was not the entire story. In fact, a closer look at Brassington’s PowerPoint presentation for the project by KN’s publisher, revealed massive risks for Guyana – none of which Brassington, nor the Senior Minister addressed. During his presentation, Brassington only mentioned four risks, which the Chinese are expected to bear. The project head stated that the project is not going to cost Guyana any money and that Guyana stands to bear no risk. However, excerpts from his power-point presentation say otherwise. According to excerpts from Brassington’s power point presentation, there are 10 primary project risks and mitigants that are expected. Those namely are: construction cost, construction delays,

geotechnical, hydrology, political force majeure (e.g. naturalization), other force majeure, Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) demand, GPL payment risk, interest rates, and Foreign Exchange (FX). Stated below are the six risks that will be thrown on Guyana, and the remaining risks are the ones the Chinese contractor will bear. HYDROLOGY For the Hydrology risk, this simply means that GPL would bear the incurred liability whenever the Amaila Falls runs dry or if the 23 square kilometers reservoir is unable to feed the hydro plant. Hydrological risk is generally seen as the risk of having insufficient water in the source river or dam to support the expected levels of electricity generation as had been the case in the past with the Amaila Falls which runs dry during the course of the year. As such, it would mean that in the event the falls run dry during the course of its hydro plant’s operation, GPL will have to assume all of the risk involved. POLITICAL FORCE MAJEURE For this risk, the Chinese contractor will obtain political risk insurance. This means that if for whatever reason there is political interference and the project is interrupted, the Chinese is covered by insurance and Guyana will have to pay the cost incurred to build the project. OTHER FORCE MAJEURE As it relates to the other force majeure, in the event of natural causes, both the government of Guyana and the Chinese contractor will bear the cause. GPL

In this risk, in the event of the power being supplied by the Amaila Falls Hydro Project not being utilized, by GPL customers – the State entity and its customers stand to bear the risk. GPLPAYMENT RISK The GPL payment risk means that for whatever reason the revenue garnered by GPL is insufficient to meet payment obligations under a Power Purchase Agreement—currently being negotiated—then again the power company and its customers are the parties that would bear the risk and would have to meet any shortfall in payments to the Chinese contractor. FOREIGN EXCHANGE (FX) For this risk, Guyana is agreeing that all payments made to the Chinese contractor must be done in US dollars. This would impact Guyana negatively if and when exchange rate fluctuate, especially upwards. CHINESE CONTRACTOR RISKS Meanwhile, according to Brassington and his PowerPoint presentation – in addition to the other force majeure risk, which is also on Guyana – the risk the Chinese contractor bears is the construction cost, construction delays, and geotechnical. For the construction risk that the Chinese contractor will bear, they will offset the expense to build the US$700 million project. However, it should be noted that according to the BOOT agreement, when the project comes on-stream Guyana will be purchasing electricity from the contractor for 20 years and thereafter the project will be transferred to the country. As for the Geotechnical

risk, this has to deal with the foundation that the project will be built on. While, Brassington was delighted to inform persons at the conference that the contractor will take this risk – he failed to mention that in 2012 Guyana paid to test the foundation of the Amaila Falls Project, so it is well known that the foundation can handle the project. THURSDAY GOVT. GOES TO IDB FOR US$244M …LOANS TO FUND ROAD, HEALTHCARE, ENERGY PROJECTS The PPP/C Government has approached the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) for US$244M ($48.8B) in loans to fund major projects in the health, road and energy sectors. According to the IDB, it is reviewing documents for the approval of US$160M for Guyana to strengthen its health care network by expanding access and improving the quality of health services countrywide. It is also considering approval for US$350,000 to support Guyana with the development of road projects along with the strengthening of public sector capacity to overcome critical project issues (particularly socioenvironmental and climate resilience aspects). That money would also be used to help government manage its new public investment agenda. The IDB further stated that the purpose of the loan is to help create capacity and assist a local counterpart technical team within the Ministry of Public Works to (Continued on page 32)

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From page 31 lead project preparation in socio-environmental aspects, gender, project engineering and traffic management services. Guyana is also expected to benefit from a US$83.5M IDB loan to support the diversification of the country’s energy matrix via the use of cleaner and renewable energy sources. The specific objectives of the programme are to lower the cost of electricity generation while supporting the country transition towards renewable energy-based generation; and improve the operation and reliability of the isolated systems of Essequibo and Linden. It would also support the development of local skills for services related to solar PV generation systems. Speaking to the importance of the energy project, the IDB was keen to note that Guyana has one of the lowest electrification rates within CARICOM member states. The financial institution noted that just below eighty percent (80%) of the population has access to electricity, which therefore leaves them facing enormous challenges related to rural electrification and/or energy poverty. Furthermore, the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) highlighted that it has over the years approved over US$37.6 million in loans and has also secured approximately US$26.9 million in non-reimbursable investment financing from the European Union (EU) in an effort to boost the reliability and efficiency of Guyana’s electricity sector through improvements in operational capabilities, electricity loss reduction measures, as well as strengthening corporate performance and management of the country’s utility i.e. Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL). The financial institution said reducing electricity losses can improve GPL’s financial performance, while at the same time alleviating fiscal commitments of the Government of Guyana in relation to the electricity sector. During the next decade, the IDB said a significant increase in electricity consumption is expected in Guyana as a result of growth of the residential and commercial sectors as well as the expected return of large customers to the national power grid. With projected energy demand expected to double in 10 years’ time, the IDB agreed that d i v e r s i f y i n g G u y a n a ’s energy matrix is important for supply to meet demand.

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It is against this background that the Government of Guyana through support from the I n t e r - A m e r i c a n Development Bank is investing in solutions along the path to a cleaner and diversified energy matrix, beginning with innovative solutions for energy security and reliability for communities that promise great growth during the following years. GUYANESE SHOW SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE FACING DEADLY RUSSIAN INVASION …AS PUTIN FACES WAR CRIMES PROBE A group of Guyanese citizens on Thursday joined others around the world to show support for the Ukrainian people who are currently under Russian invasion. The Guyanese citizens assembled in front of the Russian Embassy in Pere Street, Kitty, Georgetown in a show of solidarity for Ukrainians. The exercise organised by civil society group, Article 13 saw several prominent Guyanese including businessmen, Yo g Mahadeo, Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram, Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall, and Trade Unionist, Norris Witter as well as other members of society. The men stood in the heat of the midday sun holding placards in a display of their support for Ukraine. Speaking to Kaieteur News following the exercise, Ram urged that his fellow citizens join the action which is expected to continue on Friday. According to Ram, this is the least Guyanese can do as citizens of the world. “Here we have a nuclear power committing war crimes, and one that is emboldened by the fact that he has nuclear power which could lead to wider destruction beyond Ukraine,” Ram noted. The outspoken attorney and chartered accountant emphasized that: “no one with an ounce of human empathy could sit by and watch innocent citizens, women and children being killed, properties being destroyed….” Moreover, Ram noted that Guyanese should be mindful of the possibility of a similar situation occasioned by its neighbour Venezuela. “So, while it is good to see that the Opposition and Government

have joined in unity to speak out against the atrocities committed on Ukraine by the Russian, I would like to see more action to assist them locally. Perhaps the mobilization of humanitarian assistance, wherever we can…,” said Ram. Kaieteur News’ Publisher also called for an end to the vicious attacks on the people of Ukraine by Russian President, Vladimir Putin. “What Putin is doing needs to be stopped… I admire the President and people of Ukraine for the stance they are taking. When you can see citizens sitting in wheelchairs in cold streets making channa bombs just to give to their soldiers to fight off the Russian invasion, you can’t help but support them.” “I am calling on the citizens of Guyana to come out on Friday, for at least one hour, to show solidarity for the Ukrainians because we never know one day we may need the same support,” Lall said. Meanwhile in his comments, Mr. Mahadeo noted that while the people of Ukraine are facing the wrath of bombs—which is no fault of their own— war is never the answer to the problem. “We need to see and are calling for a peaceful resolution and respect for international law …no one wants a war,” he said echoing the concern that Venezuela which has close ties with Russia can follow the path of similar aggression. “There is an obvious link between Russia and Venezeula…that is why Russia needs to respect international law,” Mahadeo added. He said it is time, Guyanese start to raise their voice against all forms of oppression, particularly to call for an end to the violence in Ukraine. War crimes Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor on Wednesday said he would immediately open an investigation into possible war crimes committed in Ukraine, following requests to

do so by an unprecedented number of the court’s member states. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 has yet to overthrow the government in Kyiv but thousands of people are believed to have been killed or injured, according to officials in both countries and the United Nations. “Active investigations formally commence in Ukraine upon receipt of referrals by 39 state parties”, prosecutor Karim Khan tweeted. According to the Reuters, the referrals by member states fast-track an investigation as it allows the prosecutor to skip having to seek approval of the court in The Hague, shaving months off the process. The prosecutor had already said on Monday that he would seek court approval into allegations of war crimes in Ukraine. The prosecutor’s office would start collecting evidence for “any past and present allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity or genocide committed on any part of the territory of Ukraine by any person”, Khan said in a statement. Following the Russian annexation of Crimea in March 2014 and the subsequent fighting in eastern Ukraine between proRussian separatists and Ukrainian government forces, Ukraine accepted ICC jurisdiction for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed on its territory since the end of 2013. In December 2020 the prosecutor ’s office announced it had reason to believe war crimes and other crimes were committed during the conflict in eastern Ukraine, but a request for a full investigation was not filed. Russia is not a member of the ICC and rejects its jurisdiction. The court can investigate allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed on Ukraine territory regardless of the nationality of the suspected perpetrators.

By Davina Bagot Former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams is calling for an independent investigation into the operations of US oil giant, ExxonMobil, accusing the company of violating the

Although this is required by Section 12 of the Liza Two Permit, Exxon has blatantly denied that the oil company ever agreed to any insurance coverage. Instead, the company said in a recent statement that it is now working with the EPA and its co-venturers to put in place a combined $US2 billion of affiliate company guarantees. This however, is in violation of the permit issued to EEPGL for the Liza Phase Two project. Section 12.1 of the Liza Two Permit seen by this publication says, “The Permit Holder shall have insurance…” Section 12.5 of the document goes on to say, “The Permit Holder (EEPGL) must, as soon as reasonably practicable, provide from the

Liza Two Permit regarding full coverage liability. ExxonMobil in its permit granted by the EPA, for its initial project Liza Phase One was not required to provide Guyana any insurance in the event of an oil spill. Recognising this dangerous flaw in the document, the former EPA Head said upon his appointment, he started the discussions to ensure the country is covered from such a dreaded event. To this end, Exxon’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) permit for its second project, Liza Phase Two, where production recently started, was required to be covered by insurance and additional liability coverage from not only the operator but also the parent company and affiliates.

parent company (ExxonMobil) and its coventurers (affiliates) one or more legally binding agreements to the EPA, undertaking to provide adequate financial resources for Permit Holder and its coventurers to pay or satisfy their respective environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block, if EEPGL or its co-venturers fail to do so…” Dr. Adams while appearing virtually on the Glenn Lall Show on Wednesday evening, therefore concluded that ExxonMobil has breached the laws of Guyana, by denying the country full liability coverage, as mandated in the Liza Two Permit, and all other subsequent permits issued (Continued on page 33)

FRIDAY FORMER EPAHEAD CALLS FOR INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION OF EXXON’S OPERATIONS …SAYS COMPANY IN BREACH OF LIZA 2 PERMIT ON FULL LIABILITY COVERAGE …EPA HAS THE AUTHORITY TO IMPOSE PENALTIES

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From page 32 by the EPA. He reasoned: “of course they have made it public that they don’t have the documentation. Well the Permit says you got to get the documentation. So where is the documentation? You say you don’t have it, so you can’t show it now that you say you don’t have it, which means that they violated the Laws of Guyana by going out, based on their own word, by going out and starting up Liza Two without producing these documents.” With thousands of virtual listeners and viewers of the programme streamed on the various social media platforms, Dr. Adams said that the oil giant has “screwed up” big time by telling the nation that it does not have any insurance for Guyana and that there was no agreement binding the parent companies. As a consequence, he urged that the current EPA administration, headed by Mr. Kemraj Parsram, conduct an independent investigation into the operations of ExxonMobil. “It is obvious that they cannot be trusted. And who knows what else is going on in their operations to the detriment of the nation?” he said while substantiating his call. Dr. Adams told Kaieteur News that the EPA as the regulator body has the authority to impose penalties up to and including suspension, resulting from violations by the Permit Holder, EEPGL, to the Permit. Section 12.4 of the Liza Permit states, “The EPA shall reserve the right to request and review the environmental liability insurance policy…” To this end, Dr. Adams explained, “Throughout my 30 years with the US Department of Energy, my job was to manage many high risk operations and I experienced firsthand the consequences of permit violations including fatalities, so I know a high risk operation when I see one and the offshore oil operations (in Guyana) is one for certain. And you don’t have to search far to see what happened when procedures were not followed as in the case of Piper Alpha where 167 people died and in the BP spill where 8 died with horrendous e n v i r o n m e n t a l consequences”. In a recent letter to this newspaper, Dr. Adams urged ExxonMobil to show the country precisely how much insurance the nation has from the permit holder, and the agreement from the parent companies, in accordance with the Permit, to cover costs associated with the dreaded

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eventuality of an oil spill. His comments came after the President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge responded to commentaries which he says “inaccurately suggest that ExxonMobil Guyana will not be able to effectively manage response activities”. While Routledge boasted about his company’s assets he included that the oil company is working with the EPA and its co-venturers to put in place a combined $US2 billion of affiliate company guarantees, in addition to the almost US$5 billion in assets owned by the operator and its subsidiary, EEPGL. The company was keen to note that it never agreed to an insurance value of US$2.5 billion with the previous EPA administration, headed by Dr. Adams. The need for Guyana to secure full coverage insurance for a possible oil spill has been highlighted in scenarios around the world. Only recently, an oil spill occurred in Peru, a South American country. The oil spill occurred on January 15, 2022 at one of the La Pampilla refineries off the coast of Ventanilla in the region of Lima, Peru. It was reported that the spill was caused by shock waves from an undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean. Almost one month after the spill, the country is still grappling with the cleaning up of the aftermath of more than 12, 000 barrels of crude that contaminated its shores. The clean-up and remediation of the spilled crude that contaminated the shores and waters of Peru will cost US$65 million, according to the Spanish oil giant, Repsol’s, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Josu Jon Imaz. SATURDAY CGX PLUGS, ABANDONS KAWA-1 WELL Canadian explorer, CGX Energy Inc., announced on Friday that it will be plugging and abandoning its Kawa-1 well where it initially said it had unearthed significant hydrocarbon resources. CGX in a press release to the market said, “Kawa-1 was a first stage exploration well intended to identify the presence of hydrocarbons, which occurred. The well was then decommissioned by way of safely plugging and abandoning it, a standard practice and planned event.” Importantly, the Canadian firm added, “The Kawa-1 well was never intended to be kept active following completion of the successful drilling

Map showing location of Kawa-1 discovery

campaign.” CGX also provided additional details on the findings of the independent laboratory that analyzed the Kawa-1 well samples of cuttings from four pay intervals in the well. In this regard, CGX said cuttings samples from 12 reservoir zones in the Kawa-1 well are being analyzed with a variety of geochemical methods to evaluate hydrocarbons found. It said too that preliminary data from four pay intervals in the Santonian show consistent fingerprints which provide confidence in the interpretation and mitigate mud contaminants by overcoming the presence of Synthetic Oil Based Mud (SOBM) in the cuttings. A technique called Low Temperature Hydrous Pyrolysis (LTHP) was utilized to analyze the cuttings to preserve volatile hydrocarbons. Furthermore, CGX said High Resolution Gas Chromatography (HRGC) analysis of the LTHP mobilized hydrocarbons demonstrates the reproducible presence of light hydrocarbons. It added that distinctive molecular ratios in these light hydrocarbons indicate that these Santonian

reservoirs likely contain a light oil, consistent with fluorescence analysis of cuttings during drilling. It said these results are supported by analysis of solvent-extracted samples from the cuttings, which contain biomarkers that show characteristic patterns consistent with a Cretaceous Santonian source. Further to its largely scientific extrapolation of the Kawa-1 lab results, CGX said a geochemical investigation of samples taken from the Santonian, Campanian and Maastrichtian intervals of the reservoir continue and will be communicated when fully analyzed. It was on January 31, 2022 that CGX Canadian oil explorers, CGX Energy Inc. and Frontera Energy Corporation, disclosed that a discovery was made at the Kawa1-well in the Corentyne Block. The joint venture partners had said that the Kawa-1 well

encountered approximately 177 feet (54 metres) of hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs within Maastrichtian, Campanian and Santonian horizons based on initial evaluation of Logging While Drilling (LWD) data. It was drilled to a depth of 21,578 feet (6,578 metres) and targeted the easternmost Campanian and Santonian channel/lobe complex on the northern section of the Corentyne Block. Frontera and CGX were keen to note that the Kawa-1 results support the geological and geophysical models used while noting that they have helped de-risk equivalent targets in other parts of the Corentyne licence area. NEXT WELL ON THE CARDS Building on its recent offshore positive results at the Kawa-1 exploration well, the joint venture partners anticipate spudding its

second commitment well, called Wei-1, in the northwestern part of the Corentyne Block in the second half of 2022. It has not disclosed if this well is also part of a mere testing exercise. They have since exercised their option to use the Maersk Discoverer semi-submersible mobile drilling rig for the Wei1 well. The partners were keen to note that this is an important step from a health and safety, efficiency, and operational perspective and will maintain both continuity in the exploration programme during a period of high demand in the region and consistency in working with a team familiar with the rig. Kaieteur News understands that the Wei-1 exploration well will target Campanian and Santonian aged stacked channels in the western fan complex in the northern section of the Corentyne Block.

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Lessons from a Lashpreneur!!!

Why Bad Lash Extensions Last Longer By Latoya Zephyr In the beauty industry, there can be BIG differences in the work people do. It’s getting harder and harder to find a great hairdresser or brow lady, or like me – a lash technician… And like me, in the hunt for a good deal, you’ve probably phoned half a dozen lash studios to get their prices. But today we are gonna talk about why really horrible lashes will last longer than great ones. Oh, and I know you’re probably thinking “of course you’d say all this”, since I’m the owner of Lift and lashes, but I think this info will help you choose a better lash studio – even if you don’t book with me. So let’s get started with a little general lash 101… Your Natural 6 Week Cycle No, I’m not talking about that cycle. I mean the rate at which your natural lashes naturally fall out and are replaced by new ones. For most of us, this is around 6 weeks. So all the lashes you have right now will be gone in 6 weeks, and they’ll be replaced by new lashes. That means that no matter what, your eyelash extensions won’t last longer than 6 weeks (unless your lashes cycle slower, or the lashes are glued to your eyelid) Why Bad Lashes Last Longer I do a LOT of repair work where I remove

Message of Condolences to the family of one of my dearest clients “IIzzy you were one of my favorite souls, I know you’re in a better place, gone but not forgotten “. rest peacefully Isabella Hermonsa previous bad lash extensions, lash Quickly move onto next which has given me an lash and repeat. This results insight into exactly what’s in a thick and full lash going on in the lash industry appearance at the end of the right now. I believe that the appointment, so the client lash technicians doing this usually leaves quite happy work are either not properly with their new lashes! trained, majorly pressed to do But here’s where the clients faster, or don’t care problems begin… Because of about the quality of their too much glue, I often see five work. to ten natural lashes glued The method they’re using together with extensions goes a little something like tangled in the clump. This this: Separate single eyelash leads to unnecessary tension (doesn’t matter which growth on natural lashes, and pain on phase the lash is in) Coat lash the eye and eyelid (imagine in plenty of glue Add one or little pins jabbing your eyelid more extensions to the natural while you try to sleep).

Eventually, the natural lashes follow their cycle and fall out, but they’re stuck in the glue clump with the extensions so there’s nowhere for them to go – they just hang there until all the natural lashes in that glue clump have fallen or been ripped out due to strain! And THAT’S the reason bad lashes often last longer than good ones. They’re not able to fall out naturally – instead, they’re held tight within the glue clump, adding more strain to your poor remaining natural lashes! The other big problem is that they can’t be brushed (because of the glue clumps it’s like trying to brush tangled hair, but instead of knots, it’s literally superglue clumps!) This means they get tangled over the weeks and end up pointing in all different directions. Here’s an example of a removal done. (Not my work nor removal but this is just for educational purposes) In photo A You can see the thickness of the glue, and the lashes stuck together, as well as areas where her natural lashes had been ripped out too early because of excessive tension, leaving her with gappy lashes. What You’re Left With After Bad Lashes. Photo B is a photo with how the lashes are after the removal. The process takes around 30 minutes to do, but it’s the best thing for ensuring the remaining natural lashes

aren’t damaged more. Most people have fairly even and consistent lashes, so what you see here is a moderate amount of damage where the more significant clumps of glue have prematurely yanked out several natural lashes, leaving gaps that only the baby lashes remain (the little lashes in the early stage of their cycle which shouldn’t have extensions stuck to). You can also see big gaps on the inner and outer sides of the eyelid with no natural lashes left. That’s because this is the most delicate and fragile area, so if glue and extensions are clumped on in

those areas you’re almost certainly going to have your natural lashes in that area totally ripped out (which is what happened here). Once the removal was done on the client pictured, the new extensions could only be placed on the remaining strong lashes (of which there weren’t many), so even the new properly done extensions will have some gaps until the natural lashes grow back in. The good news is that if you start getting good extensions your lashes will become healthy again within around a month because there will be no tension on your natural lash.

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Facts about COVID - 19 & OMICRON By: Dr. Hugh Duckworth – Chief Academic Officer, Texila American University

C

oronavirus disease (COVID-19) has changed our world over the last two years. It is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The majority of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 will develop a respiratory illness with significant but non-lifethreatening symptoms. Most will recover in a few weeks without major aftereffects. However, people with preexisting medical conditions and risk factors can become seriously ill, require hospitalization, and are at risk of dying. Some examples of these risk factors include underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, autoimmune disorders, among others. Anyone, in any age group, can contract COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die. The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles called aerosols when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing, or breathe. As the COVID 19 pandemic has evolved over the

last two years we have seen the development of several variants of the virus. The news reports that we see regarding these COVID-19 variants can be confusing. To understand these variants and what they mean, we must first understand the virus. A virus is an infectious submicroscopic agent that can onlyreplicate itself within a host organism. Viruses can infect a vari-

ety of organisms including bacteria, plants, and animals such as humans. Viruses have very simple structures and genes. To spread, a virus must first, infect a host, then replicate and make copies of itself. But, when a virus replicates, it does not always manage to reproduce an exact copy of itself. This means that over time the virus’ genetic sequence can change.

These changes in the genetic sequence are called mutations and viruses with new mutations arecalled variants. Variants can differ by one or multiple mutations. Most of these mutations have little effect on the virus’s ability to spread or cause disease. However, sometimes these mutations doresult in changes in the viruses’ ability to infect people and cause disease. When these new variants with different functional properties, spread and become established in a population they are called strains. The medical consequences of new variants can vary. The virus may become more infectious and spread more easily from one person to another, or the variant may cause more severe disease,the virus may become more difficult for tests to detect, the variant could even becomemore resilient to vaccines or natural immunity, and more difficult to treat. But again, most of these mutations do not make a virus more dangerous to humans. In the case of COVID19, new variants have emerged with some vari-

ants persisting while others disappear. There are currently sixsignificant variants of COVID that have been identified. The Alpha variant has increased infectivity and spreads readily. The Beta variantis more resilient to attacks by antibodies. The Gamma varianthas similar properties to the Alpha variant. The Delta variant is highly infectious. The Omicron variantBA.1is even more infectious than the Delta variant. And most recently the Omicron BA.2 variant has emerged. Early reports indicate that it is more infectious thanBA.1. So,as you can see, the COVID-19 pandemic is an evolving dynamic situation with variants persistently emerging in vulnerable populations of people. The more virus that is in circulation in a given population, the greater the risk of variant production. This is because the virus-rich population is fertile ground for increased replication and mutation events leading to variants. How can we limit the spread of the virus? - Follow public health guidelines such

as mask-wearing, hand washing, and social distancing. Guidelines may vary regionally or locally based on the population’s vaccination status and other considerations. -Provide effective vaccination programs and prioritize the equitable distribution of vaccines worldwide. Poorly vaccinated populations are fertile ground for the formation of these variants. -Improve the global capacity to monitor and sequence the virusto identify and characterize variants as they emerge. These guidelines not only prevent people from getting sick with COVID19,but theycan also lead to decreased transmission of the virus,limitingthe spread of existing variants, and therefore,preventing the formation of new COVID-19 variants. As the pandemic moves into another year, society is using these tools to adapt and re-open in hopes of entering a new post-pandemicera. If this reopening of society is to continue, then it is essential that we remain vigilant, and respond robustlywith appropriate public health measuresto combat the emergence of variables of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

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By Liam Martin The Rain thundered against Lucy's window. It must be something like in one of those old, horror films out there, she thought. The scene played out in her mind, the black sky, the haunted house on the cliff edge, the leafless trees that looked like weeping old ladies, and the lightning bolt that dramatically forked to the ground. Lucy shuddered and turned over.The bright pink lights of her alarm clock stared back at her. She rolled back over. She faced a poster of a bright-eyed boy-band. Lucy sighed dreamily and closed her eyes. She had almost gotten back to sleep when she heard the hiss of running water. Sitting up, she peered over the end of her bed. Water was gushing through the gaps in the door. There was already a giant puddle in her room, but as the water kept on rushing in, it quickly became more like a pond, and then a pool. Lucy hid beneath the covers, just as the bed began to shake. She clung on to the mattress. The water had risen so high that the bed was beginning to lift off of the ground. Lucy wrapped herself up in the duvet and shut her eyes tight. First, one of the legs lifted, then the second leg, then a third, and finally, the bed was afloat. It went up. And up. Until the corner posts hit the ceiling. The ceiling creaked and one of the posts made a cracking sound. Lucy lay as flat as she could, fearing the worst. Then, there was a loud crash! After a few seconds of heartpounding panic, she decided to peek out to see which had given way.It had been the ceiling! As Lucy rose through a bed-shaped hole in the roof, she thought to herself how she would explain this to her mum in the

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Junior page Glow in theDark Bowling with Water Bottles BY AMANDA FORMARO ON JUNE 29, 2020

Supplies · 10 water bottles · 10 glow sticks in a variety of colors · Soccer ball or kickball

morning. She would normally blame her older brother when anything bad happened, but this time she realized that might be a little tricky. The entire town was flooded. Once she was far above the rooftops, the bed stopped rising. It floated through Lucy's village, just like a boat! While the bed gently swayed from sideto-side, Lucy gazed up at the twinkling night's sky. She joined up the stars with her fingers so that they made pictures. First, she made a gerbil, and then she made a cat, then, she got bored and imagined the two fighting. And while the gerbil danced out of the way of the cat's ferocious swipes, and while the bed bobbed through the sea of chimneypots, Lucy found herself drifting to sleep. 'Lucy!' Her mother screamed. 'You have overslept again!' The door to her bedroom burst open, and her mother stormed in. Lucy hesitantly uncovered herself and looked around.Everything was exactly the way she had left it the night before. She sighed with relief. It had all just been a dream, she thought to herself.

Instructions 1.Remove any labels from your water bottles. If water bottles are new and still contain water, pour out a little off the top to allow for the glow stick you'll be adding. 2. Crack the glow sticks to activate them (according to package directions) and drop one glow stick in each bottle. Replace the lid on the bottle securely. 3. Line bottles up like bowling pins. The back row should have 4 pins, the next row will have 3, next 2, and finally 1 at the front.

Futoshiki Fill in the squares so that each digit from 1 to 4 occurs exactly once in each row and column. Greater-than and less-than signs

indicate the relationship of the two adjacent squares. There is only one solution, and you can find it without guessing.

RY

OET ITH P

FUN W

Good morning, God Good morning, God, and thank You, For the glory of the sun, And thank You for the health I have To get my duties done. I shall devote the hours Of this golden day to You, By honouring Your holy name In everything I do. I shall pursue my daily work Without complaint or fear, And spend my every effort To be friendly and sincere.

(submitted by Devica Tamardhooj)

Once more - Good morning, God, Please keep and protect me, Because I want to honour You For all eternity.

Kaieteur News

Sunday March 06, 2022

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TEEN TIME

Keep on with the effort to become the best person you know No matter how much you may think of yourself, no one is ever performing at his best, simply because he is a human being. There is always room for improvement, and it may very well be the purpose of our life to keep searching for ways, and acting on these, so that we become better as time goes on. There are many ways by which you can learn how you may become a better person. Read books on

character building, practise your religion, keep the company of people from whom you can learn, keep doing things that improve your body and elevate your mind, search for ways to improve the lives of others. There should be other ways which you can search for and discover for yourself. Once you have set yourself up with this course of action to make the best of yourself, then you should become more and more determined to make of

yourself the pest person you can be. The world is in such a turmoil that it is now very hard to identify the right way by which people should be conducting themselves. In a world where children are exposed to all sorts of indecency and violence, we need to determine our own course of action so as to reap the lasting success and happiness we are all striving for. From the efforts to the legalisation of drugs and

same-sex marriages, to the killing of innocent people so that others may live abundant lives, it seems that it is now more urgent than ever that we establish the things we need to do to keep ourselves safe. You should remember that, in making the best of yourself, you are not only improving yourself, but also setting an example to others, even some that you may not be aware of, to improve themselves and make the best of their lives.

The purpose of life The purpose of life is living it, it seems to me, In finding problems, then struggling till you're free; In seeing wrongs and righting them, in dreaming splendid dreams, Then toiling till the vision is as real as moving streams. The happiest mortal on the earth is he who ends his day By leaving better than he found moving along the way; Were all things perfect here, there would be naught for man to do; If what is old were good enough we'd never need the new. Our only happy time of rest is that which follows strife, When we make some contribution to the joy of life; And he who has oppression and conquered it is he, Who really knows the happiness and peace of being free. The miseries of earth are here and with them all must cope. He who seeks for joy, through care and pain must grope; Through disappointment man must go to value pleasure's thrill; To really know the joy of health a man must first be ill. The wrongs are here for man to right, and happiness is had By striving to supplant with good the evil and the bad; The joy of life is living it and doing things of worth, In making bright and fruitful all the barren spots of earth. In facing odds and mastering them and rising from defeat, And making true what was false, and what was bitter, sweet. For only he knows perfect joy whose little bit of soil Is richer ground than what it was when he began to toil.

If you fail in any attempt to improve yourself, do not give up, because F.A.I.L. means First Attempt In Learning.

TELL IT TO UNCLE ROY I would like to inform our readers that the Uncle Roy email address is temporarily unavailable. So please send any contributions you would like to make to this page to roypaul2002@yahoo.com

Solutions to last week’s

CONNECT DOTS

Tough sudoku Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces

each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, c o l u m n o r s q u a r e .

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g tin s... s e e er tur t In rea C

T

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Tapeti [Sylvilagus brasiliensis]

h e t a p e t i (Sylvilagus brasiliensis), also known as the Brazilian cottontail or forest cottontail, is a species of cottontail rabbit. It is small to medium-sized with a small, dark tail, short hind feet, and short ears. As traditionally defined, its range extends from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, but this includes several distinctive population that recent authorities have recommended splitting into separate species. Under this narrower definition, the true tapeti only occurs in the Atlantic Rainforest of coastal northeastern Brazil and it is classified as “Endangered” by the IUCN. The species was first described scientifically by Carl Linnaeus in the 10th edition of Systema Naturae, published in 1753. The type locality was in Pernambuco, Brazil. In addition to its vernacular name “tapeti”, it commonly known as the “forest cottontail” or the “Brazilian cottontail”. As many as 37

subspecies of the tapeti have been described, but in 2005 Mammal Species of the World recognized 21, having placed the remaining in synonymy and considering the Dice’s cottontail (S. dicei) as a separate species. Nevertheless, the tapeti as traditionally defined is a species complex and it was already recognised in 1990 that a taxonomic review was necessary. Consequently, recent authorities have recommended splitting off several taxa typically considered subspecies of the tapeti and recognising them as separate species: S. andinus in the Andean highlands of Ecuador (perhaps also in the Andes of Colombia, Venezuela and northern Peru), S. gabbi (with subspecies truei) from Panama to Mexico, S. sanctaemartae in the lowlands of northern Colombia, and S. tapetillus from coastal southeastern B r a z i l . A d d i t i o n a l l y, cottontail rabbits from the Guianas have not been clear ly as s ig n ed to a subspecies, but are

traditionally included in the tapeti. In 2017, these were described as a new species, S. parentum, based on specimens from Suriname. Description Tapeti is a small- to medium-sized rabbit. It has a head-body length of 320 mm (13 in), a tail that is 21 mm (0.83 in), hind feet measuring 71 mm (2.8 in), ears that are 54 mm (2.1 in) (measured from notch to tip), and it weighs an average of 934 grams (32.9 oz). The colour of its back is brown with a speckled appearance (resulting from the black hairs tips), and it has a rufous spot on its neck. Its belly and tail underside are also rufous. It has six mammae. Two different karyotypes have been reported for this species: 2n=36, FN=68; and 2n=40, FN=76. It is a solitary, nocturnal animal, usually seen after nightfall or before dawn, feeding on grass and browse. It has also been recorded eating Harrya chromapes, a bolete mushroom. It is found in forested habitats, close to swamps and along river

edges, and in disturbed areas, such as gardens and plantations. Habitat, distribution, and ecology The tapeti occurs in tropical rain forests, deciduous forests, and second growth forests in Mexico and Central America, as well as pastures surrounding forest habitat. Its range extends from southern Tamaulipas in Mexico, south along the eastern coast of Mexico, through Guatemala, possibly

El Salvador, Honduras, eastern Nicaragua, eastern Costa Rica, and Panama. It occurs through the northern half of South

America, including Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, northern Argentina, and much of Brazil. The southern tip of its Continued on page 63

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Powerful women breaking barriers of inequality By Davina Bagot

O

n Tuesday, the world will celebrate the female gender in observance of International Women’s Day (IWD). It is a special day dedicated to honour women, who all play a pivotal role in society, irrespective of ethnicity, colour and even their career choices. This year, IWD is being observed under the theme: ‘Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow’. Kaieteur News spoke to a few of the exceptional women in society who defy the odds by doing jobs and other activities that were once known to be male dominated. The women also shared how they overcome their challenges on a daily basis to provide essential services before returning home to resume other duties as wives or mothers. Salma Hack – Power-lifter

said, “Power-lifting has become a sport I’m striving to be my best at. It has so many ups and downs but the reward of being a strong woman is empowering. My main challenge is time. I always live a healthy lifestyle but I am sure not to over restrict myself but stick to what my training goals require. My day ends when I get home and even though I may be tired and a bit cranky and my son tells me story that sounds 30 pages long I try to listen and laugh because in that very moment my life feels the happiest!” The young woman’s advice to women is to dedicate at least an hour, three times per week, to get stronger. “Building strength and gaining muscles wouldn’t make you look like a man. Don’t say you wish you can do this or be that person. You are your own individual and if you want something really badly make it work. Sacrifice what needs to be, and be your own motivation. Take one step, one breath and keep moving and remember failure happens on the road to success! Daniele Henry - Entrepreneur

church, dancer, Sunday School teacher and I am also still pursuing studies. The most rewarding part of my day is coming home to my family. Family is everything to me and they are priority and when all else fails I am happy to know I have them.” Her advice to women is “know your worth”. She urges, “Love and develop yourself so you can teach others how to love and treat you. Know that your only limitation is you, and irrespective of where you came from you can be great! As Napoleon Hill said: ‘Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe it can achieve’. Finally, let’s support and encourage each other. Each of us is facing our own challenges.” Mikhaila Puran-Xavier – Medical Doctor

being a female doctor is that the majority of first time patients come in expecting to see a male doctor! They have this idea that female doctors are inferior and that we don’t know what we’re doing so it takes time to break down that misconception.” When asked what advice she would give to women, Dr. PuranXavier noted, “Us women have come a far way but we have much further to go. In the year 2022, women still face so many inequalities and injustices. I would shout out to my fellow women to keep fighting for their rightful place in this world. When someone tells you that you cannot do something, keep working hard to show them that they are wrong and that you can do anything you set your mind to. Even if you fail 10 times, if you really want something keep trying until you get it! We are much stronger than what we are given credit for!” Julian Baljit - Oil and Gas Admin Support staffer

Mikhaila Puran-Xavier, a General Practitioner

Daniele Henry takes a selfie in her auto parts shop.

Salma Hack during one of her workout sessions. Salma Hack, a Key Account Sales Representative at Value4u Inc., advises that women make time every day to strengthen themselves. She is a power-lifter who feeds her passion on a daily basis. Hack, a resident of Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD) shared that she has an 11-year-old son and also juggles her job and training. “I am a single parent and my day usually starts at 3:40am. While my son is doing online classes I am challenged to ensure I answer his questions and get him to study after class, as he is preparing to write the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) later this year. Working and being on the road most of my working hours is very tiresome hence the reason for training at 5am.” The single mom said that she was once very weighed down with all of her responsibilities which pushed her into power-lifting. She

Daniele Henry is a woman that wears many hats. She is a mother of two, wife, sister-in-law, aunt, student, church leader and business entrepreneur. She resides on the SoesdykeLinden Highway and recently opened the doors of a new auto parts store in her village with the support of her husband. Henry said, “I am an accountant and have been involved in finance and administration since out of secondary school, which is over 14 years. I also partner in business with my husband for just over one year. I always knew business and finance was my interest as I came out of business stream in school and started CAT (Certified A c c o u n t i n g Te c h n i c i a n ) immediately then continued on to ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).” Wearing so many hats, Daniele said her biggest challenge is finding balance to ensure she gives sufficient time to each area, while being effective and efficient which also includes time for self care and development. “Some of my responsibilities include managing the finances and administration of our business; I am a home maker; a leader in

While some of the women in this article enjoy various activities in their personal lives, Mikhaila P u r a n - X a v i e r, a g e n e r a l practitioner attached to a private city hospital said she finds joy in watching her patients get better. “We were taught during our days in medical school to not get emotionally attached to our patients. This is impossible. Every face holds a different story and with this, I share a piece of their life whilst I am taking care of them. I become invested and I try to break the barrier between doctor and patient. I try to make all my patients feel as comfortable as they can be and when they get better, I feel better. I would worry about them until I know their various conditions have improved. That feeling of relief, knowing that they are better, is one unlike no other!” Dr. Puran-Xavier has been a general practitioner for seven years now. She recently gave birth to a baby girl and shared that managing her responsibilities is sometimes challenging. However, she is grateful for a good support system and work environment, which she says make managing work life and home life easier. The doctor said too, her job can sometimes be challenging. She explained, “General practice is quite rewarding and at times intriguing. It tests all of your skills as a medical doctor as you have to know a little bit of everything. It’s like putting the pieces of a puzzle together to get the right diagnosis. One of the biggest challenges of

Julian Baljit, Oil and Gas Admin Support staffer Julian Baljit is one of the fortunate women to be employed in the nascent oil sector, providing administrative support for Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL). She resides on the East Bank of Demerara and while she’s not at work, Baljit cares for her daughter and husband, in addition to managing her online clothing store. She also plays a leadership role at her Church, supporting her

husband who is a Minister of the gospel. “Being a wife, a mom, a small business owner and employed fulltime is challenging but so rewarding. I am also actively involved in our Church Ministry. I wouldn’t have been able to manage all of this without God being at the centre of my life. Having a great supportive system (my husband and family) also makes my days possible,” she explained. Just like other women in this article, the young woman said one of her greatest challenges is balancing her responsibilities. She said, “Being tasked with so many responsibilities can be tedious and exhausting. So not having a worklife balance takes a toll mentally, emotionally and physically.” On the other hand, Baljit shared that the most rewarding part of her day is going home to her family and being able to hold her daughter. “She makes me forget about everything else that is happening around me with all the loving I receive after a long day.” Her advice to women is to stay centred in faith, as she believes faith sustains and guides an individual through their darkest times. She added, “Be kind, remain humble and always take special care of how you treat other people.” Anita Ramdass-Singh - Painter At 44 years old, Anita Singh is more than just a stay-at-home mom. She is a painter and assistant to her husband, Paul Singh. The couple has four children together and lives at Kuru-Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Anita is passionate about her children, as she is about her part time job, though being employed by her husband. She explained, “I am an assistant to my husband and housewife. He has been operating a welding and fabricating shop for approximately 15 – 20 years. I assist in painting and installing the grills, purchasing materials and taking care of the home.” The mother of four said her Continued on page 54

Be who God created you to be; be faithful and dedicated to your family and carry yourself in a way in which other young women can look to you as a role model in your community. – Anita Ramdass-Singh

Anita Ramdass-Singh, Painter and Welding Assistant

Sunday March 06, 2022

4 patients in COVID-19 ICU - 16 NEW INFECTIONS RECORDED The Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday, via its daily COVID-19 dashboard, reported that four patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) receiving treatment. Although no new deaths have been reported, the Ministry recorded 16 new COVID-19 infections within the last assessed 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 63,040. Of the confirmed cases, 34,020 are women while 29,020 are men. The dashboard also shows that 15 persons are in institutional isolation, 290 are in home isolation and 11 are in institutional quarantine. To date, a total of 61,508 individuals have recovered.

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Powerful women breaking...

Stacey Austin, a Teacher/Nail Technician in her classroom.

From page 52 main challenge is managing herself. “It’s sometime difficult to have to cook, drop off my daughter to school in the mornings, travel to Georgetown for materials occasionally, return in time to get her from school, and prepare dinner for my family.” Her advice to young women is to stay focused. “Be who God created you to be. Be faithful and dedicated to your family and carry yourself in a way in which other young women can look to you as a role model in your community,” she added. Stacey Austin - Teacher Being a teacher can be a challenging and frustrating job to some, but Stacey Austin, a teacher attached to a private secondary school located at Soesdyke, said she

enjoys every second of her work. “I’ve been in this profession for the past 16 years. I chose this profession because of my love for kids and the joy it brings being able to impart knowledge to them, making them realise their potential so that they can perform to the best of their abilities,” she shared during an interview. Austin who resides at Soesdyke, EBD is also a part time nail technician and full time mom. She said that her part time job as a nail technician is also very fulfilling to her, as she enjoys making other women feel confident. The mother of two was keen to note that managing her time to get all her duties completed was her main challenge.

“As a woman with so many responsibilities and duties, if I don’t work with a planned timetable I tend to have a setback in getting things done. For example if a client shows up late in the afternoon for their appointment, it makes me have to work later than I have planned,” she explained. “My most rewarding time of the day is when I’m about to take a good night’s rest and I feel satisfied knowing that I would have done something to make a positive impact on my pupils, my client(s) or even in my home, in spite of all the challenges. My advice to young women is that a woman can do anything she conditions her mind to do, but when you do, let it make a positive impact in your life or the life of others, to be an

Opposition Member of Parliament, Juretha Fernandes over-comer,” she shared. Juretha Fernandes Parliamentarian Being a Parliamentarian is not an easy job, but being an Opposition Member of the House makes it even more challenging for a woman. So says MP, Juretha Fernandes. Fernandes, who is originally from Bartica, Region Seven, spends a significant amount of her time in Georgetown, as her work as a politician is very demanding. In an interview, the MP said she became a member of the National Assembly in 2020, joining with the intent of making a positive difference in her country. Fernandes is the mother of two daughters and in addition to being an MP, she als o hos ts a morning programme “FYI – For Your Information” broadcasted Monday to Friday on F a c e b o o k , Yo u T u b e , LinkedIn and Twitter. The public figure shared, “My biggest challenge is never having enough time but I find a way to manage and get everything done. I do not find it difficult to navigate the political terrain. Balancing family and political life is nothing easy, especially for women. I am awake from 5am most mornings just to make sure I have enough time to tackle all that I have to. I have to make sure my children are okay, then I have to make time for my personal life as well. I also have to be readily available to my political constituent at all times. Political work has no time limit, it’s a 24/7 job and my commitment to represent the

Ministry of Public Works Engineer, Denita Crandon most vulnerable in our country is what motivates me daily to keep pressing forward.” She said the most rewarding part of her day is being able to spend time with her loved ones. Her advice to young women is to continue fighting for equality. The MP said, “Women have come a long way in fighting for equality in the world. Today we often take things like being able to vote for granted and we do not acknowledge the hard fight that women went through to accomplish that right.” It is her view that the overall empowerment of women is not where it needs to be when equal pay for equal work is still not universal. She is adamant that women must however, continue the work that was started by other women and take up their place in society; that is, wherever we choose to be.” Denita Crandon Engineer Denita Crandon is one of the few female civil engineers in the country. Her services are rendered to the Ministry of Public Works on a daily basis. In an interview, the mother of four children said that one of the major challenges she faces, is winning the respect and confidence in an organisation that is predominantly men. She said that while this respect is easily or naturally given to men, she works hard to prove her capability and efficiency, while trying to maintain her confidence and not allowing Continued on page 63

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues

Patient Care Assistant, Phybe Noble

Kaieteur News

Sunday March 06, 2022

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Civil society group urges citizens to sign petition... From page 20 and drastically slashing emissions — including through rapid phase-out of fossil fuel production and use and a halt to deforestation — “invite permanent loss and irreversible damage to humans and ecosystems around the world. In the face of this latest IPCC report, such choices are indefensible.” Lien Vandamme, Senior Campaigner at CIEL also commented on the report, noting that for far too long, attempts to address the climate crisis have paid too little attention to social and

environmental justice, including Indigenous Peoples and traditional knowledge and gender dimensions. Vandamme said the report acknowledges this and affirms that human rights-based climate action must be placed at the core of international climate negotiations and their implementation while adding that supporting indigenous selfdetermination, Indigenous Peoples' rights, and Indigenous knowledgebased adaptation accelerates climate-resilient development pathways.

The Senior Campaigner said too that the report once again confirms that governments are failing the countries least responsible and most impacted by the climate emergency. The CIEL official said redress for these harms is a moral imperative, an obligation under international human rights law, and long overdue. “This report is (yet another) wake-up call for leaders to finally summon the courage to make strong decisions and deliver funding for loss and damage while phasing-out fossil-fuels to prevent the global temperature rise from ever exceeding 1.5°C,” the

Senior Campaigner concluded. Since 1989, CIEL has used the power of the law to protect the environment, promote human rights, and ensure a just and sustainable

society. With offices in Wa s h i n g t o n , D C , a n d Geneva, Switzerland, CIEL's team of attorneys, policy experts, and support staff work to provide legal

counsel and advocacy, policy research, and capacity building across three programme areas: Climate and Energy, Environmental Health, and People, Land and Resources.

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur News

==CONSUMER CONCERNS==

A city manager for Georgetown would administer efficiently and erase corruption By Pat Dial This is a heady time in Guyana; a time when a new spirit of creativity and drive is beginning to suffuse all Guyanese life and society. All must move forward with it or one would be left behind, on the margins while the fast flowing current of development moves on. The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has so far escaped that spirit and sits out in accustomed moribundity. The Le Repentir Cemetery continues to deteriorate into chaos, the drainage system of the City has become a flooding system, the piles of garbage everywhere has given the name "garbage city" to Georgetown and the roads continue to break up into potholes and the complaints of the citizens leave City Hall deaf and unmoved. Citizens complain of those things which directly affect them but not as many cry out against the corruption which is less apparent than a garbage heap but which is inextricably linked to it. In this article we shall remind citizens of how illegalities and corruption are just as distressing and disastrous. Recently, the Courts rejected the M&TC "compliance certificate" scam. The Registrar of Deeds had prescribed that in passing of transports the filing papers should contain a certificate issued by City Hall ascertaining that tax payments on the property to be conveyed were up-to-date since filing the original receipt was inadmissible. The "compliance certificate" was no more than a copy of the receipt of payment and was a mere clerical activity. Instead, the M&CC quite illegally decided to convert this clerical certificate into a tax by charging five percent of the value of the property as cost of certificate. Georgetown properties are now valued at tens of millions of dollars and this means that the clerical certificate would now cost thousands of dollars! The Bar Association brought a successful action in the Courts which decided that the M&CC must drop its illegality. Another corrupt practice the M&CC was attempting was to take over the Bel Air Park playground and give it to some of the members of the Council as house lots. The residents tried to reason with the M&CC that the playground was for recreational use and it belonged to the community.

But the City Hall went ahead with surveys and even started to build. Some residents were constrained to bring an action in the Courts which decided that the City Hall should desist from its illegality. The playground was saved. A similar type of scam was attempted with the Lamaha Gardens playground where a housing developer, in collusion with officers from M&CC, was claiming prescriptive rights of the playground. Fortunately, legal action was filed just in time and the Lamaha Gardens playground was saved. Recently, a company named Astrolabe Technology claimed that the M&CC on "1st October, 2007 had entered into a contract permitting them to provide paid parking in a large part of the East Street reserve. They were further authorised "to operate parking facilities in the Old Georgetown jurisdiction which boundaries are the seawall to the North, Independence Boulevard to the South, Irving Street to the East and Demerara River to the West". This half-literate contract seemed to have been the work of some rogue elements in the M&CC. On 14th November, 2020, the Ministry of Public Works acting in the interest of the citizens and of Law, removed the fence and gate of the illegal parking lot and Astrolabe sued before the Courts and humiliatingly lost. (Details of this scam were reported in the Guyana Chronicle of 2/02/2022) M&CC has even tried their illegalities on the State itself! Some years ago, it tried to sell a piece of State land belonging to NICIL contiguous to the old Sprostons shipyard. The attempted illegal sale reached the Courts and M&CC were ordered to desist from trying to sell land belonging to NICIL. There is over one billion dollars of uncollected taxes outstanding but the M&CC has been making no attempt to collect it or to effectuate execution sales to begin recovering this money. Some years ago, however, a wellappointed property in Brickdam belonging to an expatriate, Guyanese fell into three years tax arrears and one of the senior most members of the City Council was able to arrange an execution sale of the property and bought it for a tiny fraction of its value and when the owner returned (Continued on page 59)

Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur News

Farmer fetching grass to police station 4... From page 15 also noticed that two of his sisters' cattle were rebranded too and notified the police. “They tell me bring them to the station and we carry them,” Dandath recalled.He said that the animals were impounded at the station since November 4, last year.“Them find the boy (the suspect) who rebrand the cow and we went to the station to settle the

matter but the commander call and seh don't settle no matter there, let it go to the court,” added Dandath.Since then, said the farmer, they were running to and from the station not only to feed the animals but also for followups on the matter.Four months went by and Dandath, who has been diligently feeding his animals and seeking updates on the matter, is yet to receive his cows.

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A city manager for Georgetown would administer efficiently and erase.... From page 58 shortly afterwards to settle his taxes, he found he had lost his property. The M&CC is making no effort to collect this billion dollar of outstanding taxes but is trying to increase taxes of those who pay.No one in the M&CC has been effectively disciplined or charged by the Police for any of the corruption in that corporation and it remains in stolid inactivity in executing its remit despite the untiring complaints of the citizens. It is only the Central Government that may be able to break this impasse. The Guyana Consumers Association has for

years been advocating either the suspension of the M&CC for a number of years or its abolition and its replacement by a City Manager System which has been successfully used in several American cities. The City Manager System is results-oriented and in a few years Georgetown would experience a renaissance and a Garden City befitting the capital of an Oil and Gas country would emerge. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

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Sunday February 27, 2022

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Senior GGMC official accused of mistreating, victimising... From page 60 of the workers. They also accused him of instructing his staffers to use their powers to seize minerals in cases where this is not required. Although some would follow the instructions, there are others who would oppose the alleged wrongdoings and challenge his authority. The challengers would be the ones who would feel

the brunt of his victimisation. One way of pulling staffers in line to do his bidding, alleged the GGMC employees, is to not sign off their advance bills for field work. They explained that if they have to travel to an interior location for work duties, GGMC would give them money (an advance). This money is to take care of

their basic needs while out in the field. After completing their duties, they will then submit bills for what they spent and field reports for him to sign. If he refuses to sign off on their bills, then GGMC will withhold their salaries. The workers claimed that once they are not in agreement with the senior official, he would use his power to victimise them.

“He would not sign bills for months and for that period staff would have to stay without pay,” said one of the workers. Complaints would be lodged with his superiors, said the workers, but nothing would be done. Somehow, they said, he would find out about the complaints against him and he would verbally abuse them. “He is not working with

the Human Resource department or does not have the power to suspend you like the HR department but he would discipline you right on the spot. He made a senior staff cry and another resigned,” complained the workers. The staff who resigned, they continued, is still being victimised by the senior official bec ause he is refusing to approve her

g r a t u i t y b e n e f i t s . To substantiate this claim, this newspaper was shown a letter that was written by the staff pleading for GGMC to pay her the gratuity benefits. Once an investigation is launched and the senior official is found guilty of mistreating the m, the workers are hope ful that he will be removed from his post or even fired.

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WANTED 1 live in maid.Apply with application at 23 Lombard St.Tel:227-8529 or 233-7356.

FOR RENT

VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable. Contact:649-0956. 1 Nissan pathfinder in good condition, CAT 215 used parts.Tel:683-7225/275-0367.

SERVICES Massages and Rehabilitation physical preparation personalized training. Degree in physical Culture and Sports: Kyrenia Ballard Bell.Call:6696910. Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 Prestige Janitorial Services. House,Commercial & Office cleaning,Land mowing/ weeding,after party clean up. Call:670-0734/639-9745. Installation, Repairs and parts for AC,Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc.Call Nick#656-0110.

One bedroom apartment for working couples/single person $32,000 monthly,light & water.Call:623-0076. Business: Saffon St 900Sq FT bottom flat,Bar St Kitty, Wellington St,North Road. Contact:Ray's Realty 6279685. Three bedroom upper flat and two bedroom lower flat situated at Diamond/Grove H/S.Call:216-1049 sunday between 11am-2pm or 6889132. Bobby’s Reality,for Sale or rent, good for business– 4.018 acres of prime land in New Amsterdam, Berbice. Reduce Price.Call 679-2497. Bobby’s Reality,large Property with Huge Concrete Bond,PrimeLocation Cumberland,Canje.Ideal for Business.Sale or rent. Reduce Price.Call 679-2497.

Lots of Tee Shores,some farm boards and plyboards. Must sell for $20,000.Contact: R.Singh,call:609-1633/ 622-0151.

One male to work in Interior on chicken farm.Must have knowledge of Poultry Farming. Contact:680-2702. Male seeks confidential companion,ages 30-60 to live with,salary $100,000 monthly. Call:603-9085. Farm workers to work at Soesdyke, Highway. Contact: 666-3303. Skilled mason and carpenter to work, $7,000 per day. Tel: 623-2900. Salesgirl & Porters.Apply at Best Buy Food Supplies.Lot 1E Dennis C Middleton St Campbellville with written application. One Heavy duty diesel mechanic to work in the interior. Must know welding & have driver's license.Contact:6802702. Experienced Land Dredge workers.Serious enquiries only.Call:684-1030.

PROPERTY FOR SALE JFWW Network Real Estate houselots for sale gated community,$4 Mil GYD zero down payment.Messageto whatsapp: 622-1957.

VACANCY

Ogle,Sheriff St,Charlotte St,Enterprise C,Zeelugt & Diamond.Contact:Ray's Realty 627-9685.

Vacancy exist at P.S.G.C.S for Labourers, General Cleaner, Maintenance worker,Time Keeping,Tool Issuing clerkPharmacist,Sales Girl, Maintenance Supervisor and Office Manager. Call: 621-6969 or 615-7784.

FOR SALE Double stalls with bonds for sale in Stabroek Market. Call: 227-3463 between 8:00hrs to 16:000hrs for enquiries.

One general domestic,covid 19 vaccinated for Tuesdays & Saturdays. Age 40+,between Cove & John Unity E.C.D 259-0953/623-3231.

LAND FOR SALE Middle road La Penitence, Cummingslodge 2acres, Eccles 5 acres,Berbice Riverside, Diamond & Friendship. Contact:Ray's Realty 6279685.

Diesel & Auto mechanic, Truck & small vehicle drivers, porter to work in Interior. Call:682-3923/611-5398. One clerk for TSI Eccles Office,English & Maths grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to tech serigy@yahoo.com. Maid to cook and clean for East Bank areaa.Call:6159132.

FOR RENT 2 or 3 bedroom apartment for rent,Bel Air Park.Call:6628371. Colingen Road E.C.D, business place to rent.Tel:6303910. One (1) bedroom apartment torent,located at Charlestown $10,000 per week. Tel:6232900. Self contain rooms to rent in Prashad Nagar.Tel#227-2993.

WANTED

Pitmen and Hauler Operator for interior location. Applicants must be experienced. Call:231-2250.

One male able bodied clerk, one female able bodied clerk. Tel:225-2313/226-1497.

2 professional nail technician & one make up artist,location Grove

Experienced Taxi Driver (Hire car license) and bus driver at Princess Hotel. Contact:6165419/265-7075/265-7076. Wanted Lorry Drivers. Call:220-2818/3710. Chainsaw Operator and Labourers to work in wood concession.Call:667-8441.

Experience Accounts Clerk have Math & English in person at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda. One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing. Keyfood Trading, Mc Doom village.

Sunday March 06, 2022

Sunday March 06, 2022

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Kaieteur News

Powerful women breaking barriers of inequality... From page 54 herself to be intimidated by her male colleagues. “Managing my responsibilities is sometimes very challenging and at other times it’s just routine. Once you have a strong support team, whether it’s family or colleagues, that love, respect and is driven by the same force or will as you are, everything would be manageable,” she said. As the Senior Engineer/ Programme Manager for the Miscellaneous and Urban Roads Programmes at the Ministry of Public Works, Crandon is tasked with managing the construction and rehabilitation of community roads along the coast and urban areas in the 10 towns of Guyana. For her, the most rewarding part of her day is being able to spend time with her husband and children. She urged, “There is nothing in this world you cannot achieve. Once you put your mind to it and give it your all, you can achieve the impossible even though you may fail a number of times or might not be good enough in someone’s eyes. Always keep pushing forward because at the end of it all, it’s only one life we have to live and if we can’t give it our all what’s the point?” Susan Rodrigues - Government Minister The Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues recently became a Parliamentarian, driven by her passion to effect change in Guyana. But what readers may not know about the public figure is that she is also a mother of two children who struggles to manage her daily responsibilities. In an interview with this publication, Minister Rodrigues said that she was raised in Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, but currently resides on the East Coast of Demerara. “I joined the People’s Progressive Party and politics in 2016. At that time, I believe our country lacked leadership and clear direction. I disagreed with the policies of the previous government and the general pos-

ture/attitude of the government ministers. I wanted to see a change in government and wanted to be a part of that change. I wanted to make a difference and felt like I had a lot to offer.” Driven by that passion, she said she left her job in the private sector to serve the country. She said, “Managing responsibilities is about setting priorities. I am a mother, a Minister of Government and a Member of Parliament. I am also a daughter, a sister, a granddaughter. At different stages in life priorities can shift. For example, when my children were infants they needed me constantly and this required a lot of my time. Now that they are a bit older they do not require the amount of time as before so I can focus more on my work. However, striking the right balance between family and work is always important and a constant struggle. I do not always get it right, but I keep trying.” In addition to this, the Minister noted, “Income inequality, harassment in the workplace from men or male employers and self esteem struggles are also common issues women face in their daily lives. I think one of the biggest challenges women face in a professional environment is being underestimated. I think a lot of times men are automatically viewed as being competent and qualified when they hold a certain position in an organisation. I don’t think the same applies to women who hold high positions. I think women have to constantly prove themselves. Women have to work twice as hard to prove their competence, qualification, experience and leadership to be taken seriously. An appointment or designation alone does not guarantee respect for a woman or her abilities.” Rodrigues said the most rewarding part of her day is being able to help someone, since many times a solution may not be straightforward. Her advice to women is to believe in themselves. “Young women need to believe in themselves and not

Tapeti (Sylvilagus brasiliensis) From page 51 known distribution occurs in Tucuman province. It occurs at elevations from sea level to 4,800 m (15,700 ft). It is the only leporid species found in most of its range. Rabbits build nests built of dry grasses above the ground to rear their young. They have a central chamber and three or four smaller chambers at the end of a corridor. The gestation period varies with the geographical location. Rabbits in Chiapas, Mexico gestate for about 28 days, and have three to eight offspring, while rabbits in the

Páramos of the Andes gestate for 44 days, and have an average litter size of 1.2. Both of these populations breed yearround. Like its California relative, the brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani), the tapeti is a natural reservoir for the myxoma virus. This relationship was discovered by Brazilian physician Henrique de Beaurepaire Rohan Aragão in the 1940s. The virus causes a benign cutaneous fibroma in its hosts, but it causes the lethal disease myxomatosis, in European rabbits. (Source: Wikipedia)

allow anyone to define boundaries or roles for them. Too often women give away their power…women need to take control of their own lives and set their own ambitions. Then, they need to chase those ambitions and not allow anyone or anything stopping them. Our only limitations are those we place on ourselves. Young women need to find what they are passionate about, set clear targets, and hustle like hell to

achieve them,” she encouraged. Phybe Noble - Patient Care Assistant While some of the women featured in this article joined politics and even education to create a difference, Phybe Noble of Lichfield, West Coast Berbice decided to become a Patient Care Assistant to help those in need of medical attention. Noble recently gave birth to a son and shared what her journey has been like. She

said she always found joy in taking care of people, but recently her duties have become challenging. “A new baby also bring along a lot of responsibilities. My journey only just started but it has been tough to get up and cook and do my other chores plus take care of my son who is just three months old. I recently turned out back to work and it has been difficult,” she explained. Noble is attached to the Fort Wellington Hos-

pital and has been a Patient Care Assistant for the past four years. She said that working through the pandemic has been a challenge too as the first thing she is required to do is “hit the bathroom” when she gets home from work. For her, the most rewarding part of her day is knowing that she has helped to save a life. Her advice to young women is to “stay in school, educate yourself and get a good job.”

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur News

Putin likens Western sanctions to war as Russian assault traps Ukrainian civilians

(Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said Western sanctions were akin to war as his forces pressed their assault on Ukraine on Saturday for a 10th day and the IMF warned that the conflict would have a “severe impact” on the global economy. Moscow and Kyiv traded blame over the failure of plans to impose a brief ceasefire and enable civilians to evacuate two cities besieged by Russian forces. Russia’s invasion has already driven nearly 1.5 million refugees westwards into the European Union. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy made a “desperate plea” for eastern Europe to provide Russianmade aircraft to his country during a call with U.S. senators on Saturday, said the chamber’s majority leader, Chuck Schumer. NATO, which Ukraine wants to join, has resisted Zelenskiy’s

Service members of the Ukrainian armed forces atop a tanker.

appeals to impose a no-fly zone over his country, saying this would escalate the conflict outside Ukraine. But there is strong bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for providing $10 billion in emergency military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Putin said he wanted a neutral Ukraine that had been

“demilitarised” and “denazified”, adding: “These sanctions that are being imposed are akin to a declaration of war but thank God it has not come to that.” Ukraine and Western countries have rejected Putin’s arguments as a baseless pretext for invading and have sought to squeeze

Russia hard with sanctions. Putin later met Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett in the Kremlin to discuss the crisis, Bennett’s spokesperson said. Israel has offered to mediate in the conflict, though officials have played down expectations for a breakthrough. Ukrainian

negotiators said a third round of talks with Russia on a ceasefire would go ahead on Monday. Two previous rounds have been unsuccessful and Zelenskiy has said Russia must first stop bombing. NO EVACUATIONS The International Committee of the Red Cross said planned civilian evacuations from Mariupol and Volnovakha were now unlikely to start on Saturday. The city council in Mariupol had accused Russia of not observing a ceasefire, while Moscow said Ukrainian “nationalists” were preventing civilians from leaving. Britain said the proposed ceasefire in Mariupol - which has been without power, water and heating for days - was likely an attempt by Russia to deflect international condemnation while it resets its forces. The port of Mariupol has endured heavy bombardment, a sign of its strategic value to Moscow due to its position between Russianbacked separatist-held eastern Ukraine and the Black Sea Crimean peninsula, which Moscow seized from Kyiv in 2014. Russia’s Defence Ministry said its forces were carrying out a wide-ranging offensive in Ukraine and had taken several towns and villages, Interfax news agency reported. In an aerial combat near Zhytomyr, about 100 km (62 miles) west of Kyiv, it said, four Ukrainian Su-27 fighter jets had been shot down. Reuters could not independently confirm the report. A United Nations monitoring mission said at least 351 civilians had been confirmed killed and 707 injured in Ukraine so far since the start of the invasion on Feb. 24, adding that the real figures were likely to be “considerably higher”. The number of refugees could rise to 1.5 million by Sunday night from 1.3 million now, the U.N. refugee agency chief said. Women and children, often numb with exhaustion, continued to pour into Poland and other neighbouring countries as well as into western Ukrainian cities such as Lviv. “I’ve barely slept for 10 days,” said Anna Filatova, arriving in Lviv with her two daughters from heavily bombed Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second city near its eastern border with Russia. “The Russians want to flatten Kharkiv... We hate Putin.” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on a visit to Poland, met refugees staying in a disused shopping mall near the border. Poland has taken in the vast majority of the Ukrainian refugees. ‘MY HEART IS BREAKING’ Russians, reeling from a 30% fall

in the rouble’s value in the past 10 days, money transfer curbs and the exit of Western companies from IKEA to Microsoft, expressed fear for their economic future. “My heart is breaking,” said shopper Viktoriya Voloshina, out shopping in the town of Rostov on Saturday. Another woman, Lidia, said: “Today my family and I are leaving Russia.” The International Monetary Fund said in a statement the war was driving world energy and grain prices higher. “The ongoing war and associated sanctions will also have a severe impact on the global economy,” it said, adding that it would bring Kyiv’s request for $1.4 billion in emergency financing to its board for approval as early as next week. Russia’s Foreign Ministry accused Britain of “sanctions hysteria” and vowed tough but proportionate measures against British interests in Russia. Britain plans to tighten its laws to facilitate a crackdown on Russian oligarchs in London. Italian police have seized villas and yachts worth at least $153 million from four high-profile Russians put on an EU sanctions list, sources said on Saturday. The conflict has shaken international diplomacy over Iran’s nuclear programme, one of the few areas where Russia and the United States had been working together to curb what the West suspects is an Iranian plan to develop nuclear arms. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday the new Western sanctions imposed on his country had become a stumbling block for clinching a nuclear deal with Iran. ‘FIGHTING FIERCELY’ Ukraine’s Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said 66,224 Ukrainian men had returned from abroad to join the fight against Russia’s invasion. Ukraine’s military said armed forces “are fighting fiercely to liberate Ukrainian cities from Russian occupiers”, counter-attacking in some areas and disrupting communications. In Kherson, southwest Ukraine, the only regional capital to have changed hands during the invasion so far, several thousand people demonstrated on its main square on Saturday. “Kherson is Ukraine,” they chanted, demanding that Russian forces withdraw. Eyewitnesses cited by Interfax said Russian troops fired automatic rifles into the air in an unsuccessful attempt to disperse the crowd. The soldiers later left the city centre, the eyewitnesses said.

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Sunday March 06, 2022

Kaieteur News

West Bank face-off with... Sunday March 06, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21– Apr. 19) Take advantage of the creative energy in the air today, Aries. Keep your hands moving and your imagination flowing toward something fun and artistic. TAURUS (Apr. 20– May20) Your sixth sense is right on target, Taurus, so trust your instincts today. You're likely to connect with someone in a wonderful partnership that will help you foster the very plan you want to develop now. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Take a break from your routine Gemini. You might feel like you're leading an army into battle as you strive for new adventures and conquer new realms. CANCER (June 21–July 22) The key for you is to minimize your daily drama as much as possible, Cancer. You may not realize how much you cripple yourself by the way you exaggerate every aspect of your life. LEO (July 23– Aug. 22) Be careful of advertising yourself as someone who is so strong and mentally competent that you're capable of h a n d l i n g everything, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23– Sept. 22) Things should flow well for you today with very little effort on your part, Virgo. Take note that if any quarrel arises, it's an indication that the person you're arguing with isn't necessarily the right person to deal with or confide in.

LIBRA (Sept. 23– Oct. 22) This is meant to be a nice, relaxing day, so treat it as such, Libra. There's no need for you to plan any great strategy at this time. Try to take it easy and not indulge in any unnecessary stress. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your sensual nature is heightened, and you'll find yourself engaged in tender moments and languid peacefulness in the company of others. SAGIT (Nov. 22– Dec.21)Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Sagittarius. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. CAPRI (Dec. 22– Jan. 19) This is a terrific day for you. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) A selfish attitude on your part won't be tolerated today, regardless of the circumstances, Aquarius. Don't make it worse for yourself by pretending that you don't notice others' hurt feelings. PISCES (Feb. 19– Mar. 20) You could find the hardest person to face is you. You tend t o w a r d introspection, and you may find yourself shrinking into selfrecrimination . Yo u could analyze the i m p o r t a n t people in your life and yet fail to address the one you really need to look at – you.

From page 69 dismissed by left-arm spinner Anil Beharry. But the left handed Narine clobbered an explo-

sive unbeaten 31 from just 13 balls with five fours and six and he earned the manof-the-match award for his all round efforts.

National TT Sports Academy... From page 68 young people to develop their talents. “ Ramson also revealed that $130m has been allocated for the upgrading of the CASH. Meanwhile, the Director of Sport, Ninvalle, shared that, “I’m commending the executive of the GTTA for putting together this launching in a short space of time. I’m happy to see the young kids uni-

formed, that displays organisation. This is the fourth sport that will start from the nursery level, and I believe that through this programme we may be producing Olympians. It’s an extremely good initiative and many of my friends in the Caribbean are saying they want to emulate it.”

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Sunday March 06, 2022

National TT Sports Academy launched Steve Ninvalle

Yesterday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport, along with Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) launched the Table Tennis Academy programme. Present at the significant occasion was Minister of Sport; Charles Ramson Jr., Director of Sport; Steve

Ninvalle, and NSC C o m m i s s i o n e r, C r i s t y Campbell, in addition to the members of the table tennis fraternity. Head of the GTTA, Godfrey Munroe, during his remarks, mentioned that he was extremely pleased with the initiative being rolled out since it was in keeping with the mandate of his associations and global governing body’s vision for

the development of the sport. Munroe also thanked the Sports Ministry and by extension the NSC for their support. Minister Ramson was the keynote speaker and during his speech, he posited that, “This initiative requires all of us to understand what we are trying to do. (The academy programmes) can turn out to be something very special.”

He continued that, “What really matters to us is consistency. Seeing the space and time being allocated (At CASH) is being used at all possible times. Before there was a fee attached but we have waved the fees for the usage of the facility for the sport academy because we know how important it is for facilities to be in place for (Continued on page 67)

Kaieteur News

Sunday March 06, 2022

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‘Big Man Cricket’ over-40 T25 tournament

West Bank face-off with E’bo Eagles today at Bourda By Sean Devers On a sun kissed day at the historic GCC Bourda, West Bank Warriors beat GT Royals, while Essequibo Eagles defeated Berbice’s Jai Hind Jaguars in yesterday’s semi-finals to book their place in today final from noon. In the first semi-final which was very competitive, a fair size gathering saw GT, invited to bat first on a slow track and sluggish outfield due to overnight rain, reach

161-3 when their 25 overs expired. Mustafaa Azimullah, who stroked three fours and three sixes in a 53-ball 67 and Oslyn Batson, who fashioned an unbeaten 67 from 79 balls decorated with five boundaries which included a six, gave the City a solid 106 opening stand before Azimullah was run out. Authur Duke (16) and Batson carried the score to 134 before two wickets fell in the space of one run.

When West Bank began their chase Dexter Jones removed Eon Williams (6) at 14-1 before getting rid of Deoram Persaud (19) to leave the score on 31-2. Anthony Ifill, who scored 60 from 48 balls and reached the boundary five times and cleared it twice and Ganesh Persaud whose 28 lasted 30 balls and included three fours, took the score to 112 before Persaud departed. Ifill and Patrick Khan (26)

carried the score to 134 before Ifill was caught and bowled by Nadir Baksh before Sohan Bedesse chipped with an unbeaten 16 as the West Side team reached their target in the 24th over. Jones had 2-22. In the second semi-final Jai Hind Jaguars were bowled out for a disappointing 75 with 14 balls remaining. Anthony Ifill top scored to lead Imranally Hussain (17), WestBeharry Bank Warriors Skipper Anil (17) and today(16) final. Ramlingguminto Mangali were

the only batsmen to reach double figures. Manoj Lall (3-15), Daveanand Mahadeo (2-14), Besham Seepersaud (2-9) and Ramesh Narine (2-16) did the damage with the ball for the Essequibians who raced to 78-1 in 10 overs. Dharawdeo Lall hit an unbeaten 33 with three fours and six and Dharmendra Lakan took the score to 42 before Lakan (13) was (Continued on page 67)

Kaieteur News

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Sunday March 06, 2022

Daniel Ince makes the cut for CAC Games A

battle between three top competitors for the final spot on Guyana’s Senior Squash Team that will attend the Central American and

Caribbean (CAC) Games to be held in Guatemala ended with Daniel Ince reigning supreme. Ince’s triumph came on the heels of his Over-30 triumph during the BCQS

Masters Tournament held just under a month ago. He now joins the team of Alex Arjoon, Kristian Jeffery, Sam Ince and Jason Khalil. The three-way showdown which began on

Wednesday evening at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts saw the in-form Ince defeat Nicholas Verwey 3 – 0 in the finale. Prior to that, Ince won against Wayne Alphonso 3 – 1 w h i l e Ve r w e y w a s victorious against Alphonso 3 – 2. The team which continues to gain match experience and meaningful court time thanks to the

ongoing Guyana Squash A s s o c i a t i o n ’s ( G S A ) League, has only a few weeks left of preparation before the tournament serves off on April 3 and runs until April 9. Meanwhile, the usual precursor for the CAC Games preceding the pandemic, the Senior National Squash Championships, has confirmed a battalion of 21

players with three spots left to secure through the Qualifiers. Chairman of the Competitions Committee, Deje Dias, has made the qualifiers very interesting since 24 different seeds will be vying for those three exclusive spots in the Championships. The Qualifiers commence on Friday, March 11.

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Sunday March 06, 2022

PAGE 71

Berbice Basketball names male and female coaches The Berbice Amateur Basketball Association (BABA) has appointed Miss Jenessa Waithe and Mr. Orande Solomon was named female and male coaches for the Association. This follows the World Association Basket Ball Coaches Level 1 Clinic held recently and was attended by Vice

Jenessa Waithe

Orande Solomon

President Mr. Rodwell Elders. He noted the need to start basketball training in Guyana at a primary school level, but in order for this to be achieved it must be a joint effort among Government, associations, clubs, schools and companies to improve players standards and skills.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 72

Sachin Singh misses a big drive during his undefeated 21 at DCC yesterday.

Sunday March 06, 2022

GCA’s NBS 2nd Division 40-overs cricket

DCC register 10-Wkt win over Sophia In steaming heat on a DCC outfield that was much harder than the previous day, Jadon Campbell and Sachin Singh powered the hosts to emphatic 10-wicket over

Sophia in the GCA’s NBS 40 over second division cricket tournament yesterday. After an incisive spell of fast bowling from Kaveem Whitney who captured 4-13 and 3-13 from spinner Daniel Mootoo had routed Sophia for 75 in 16.3overs. Malcolm Morris who scored 33 from 28 balls with three fours and two sixes and Rayden Hendricks whose 22

came from 29 balls offered token resistance for Sophia. When DCC began their reply the galloped to 76 without loss in 8.4 overs as Campbell stroked four fours and two sixes in his unbeaten 39 from 23 balls, while the right-handed Singh supported with an undefeated 21 from 30 balls with three fours. (Sean Devers)

Kaveem Whitney had 4-13 for DCC yesterday.

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Sunday March 06, 2022

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Ramdhani siblings to compete at National Qualifiers

N

a r a y a n Ramdhani and his sibling Priyanna Ramdhani were both recognized and rewarded for their performances as they copped the Alberta Colleges’ Athletics Conference ( A C A C ) M e n ’s a n d Women’s Badminton All Conference Awards. This was announced in the past week ahead of the ACAC 2022 Badminton

C h a m p i o n s h i p s (Provincials) which unfolds at Olds College on March 5 and 6. Narayan also became the ACAC Male Player-ofthe-Year. They are both on scholarship at the King’s University (Narayan) and Olds College (Priyanna) and are scheduled to represent their respective school at this Championship. On the opening day of the event, the Team Semi-finals and Finals

were up to be contested. On March 6, the day commences with the Men & Women’s Singles followed by the Men & Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. This tournament also serves as the qualifiers for Nationals to represent Alberta Colleges at the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (Nationals) which is also scheduled to be played during this month.

Priyanna Ramdhani

Narayan Ramdhani is the ACAC Male Player of the Year