Kaieteur News
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Saturday March 26, 2022
Govt. finally buckles under pressure of two year protest …to now secure insurance from ExxonMobil for any Stabroek Block oil spill After two years of protest from citizens for full liability insurance coverage from oil giant ExxonMobil, in the unfortunate event of an oil spill in the country’s waters, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has finally come on record to assure that his administration is now working with the parent company to secure such guarantee. Jagdeo made the revelation on Thursday evening, during an interview with one of the government’s communications specialist, Eddie Layne. Since the startup of its oil operations in December 2019, ExxonMobil has evaded demands to provide insurance coverage, and instead tied its subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to providing this guarantee. It has been argued
Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo however that EEPGL, being a fairly new company, with assets worth only around US$5 billion, would not be able to effectively cover all costs associated with an oil spill in Guyana, should such an adverse event occur. So far, three of the oil
company’s operations, Liza One, Liza Two and Payara have been granted approval, without guarantees in place from the parent company. With approval for its fourth, the Yellowtail development project, in the making, Jagdeo has made it
clear that a separate document will be issued to Exxon, which ensures a guarantee is secured, should an oil spill occur. He said, “…Yellowtail will be stronger than any (Permit) they (the former government) have issued and separately, not part of the permitting process for Yellowtail, but separately. We are working with the companies to secure a parent guarantee that will cover the entire Stabroek Block. Not Liza 1, Liza 2, Payara or Yellowtail, but the entire Stabroek Block, but that is a separate issue.” The Vice President did not disclose figures, or further details regarding the guarantee his government is now looking to secure from ExxonMobil, more than two years post first-oil. Jagdeo was keen to note d u r i n g h i s i n t e r v i e w, however, that the former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams had merely thought of or “had something” up his sleeves while at the organization, but it is the PPP that is ensuring it is done. On the same note, he criticized the Opposition for now filing motions and issuing statements on the matter which he said, is for the mere sake of politics. B a c k i n F e b r u a r y, Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson filed a Motion in the National Assembly calling for the government of Guyana to include full unlimited liability coverage for oil spills and other disasters, related to petroleum production, as a condition for granting approval for the Yellowtail development, and all other future petroleum development. To this end, Jagdeo said, “Ignore all of these press releases and these statements and these Motions to Parliament. They are all done for the politics, not the substance of it or to help people. They are done for the politics to make them sound more attractive as though they care for people.” He also made reference to improvements to the Environmental Permits granted to the oil company so
Map depicting the Stabroek and Kaieteur oil Blocks
Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall protesting against the lopsided oil contract with ExxonMobil. He also called for the company to provide oil spill insurance far for the three projects, stated above. According to him, “Some of the key elements that we got Exxon to commit to was a Cradle to Grave ownership and management of their waste that was not in the other two permits. So any waste generated by this company, they couldn’t give to their subcontractors and say you deal with that. They have responsibility for it. That is massive change. We then dealt with treated water. That is the water that is pumped up. The level of treatment that it has to undergo before it is released,
we enhanced that…” Only last month, ExxonMobil responded to a series of articles published by Kaieteur News on the issue of full liability coverage. The company said, “Commentary on full coverage insurance and guarantees inaccurately suggest that ExxonMobil Guyana will not be able to effectively manage response activities. Insurance is just one source of financial assurance that could be leveraged for response activities. The value of (Continued on page 17)
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 26, 2022
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As Energy Transition nears…
Guyana has limited time to exploit and develop oil resources R - Professor Clive Thomas warns
e n o w n e d Economist Professor Clive Thomas issued a strong warning to Guyana’s authorities to make the best of the country’s oil and gas resources now and as quickly as possible as the time for exploiting and growing wealthy off the commodity will soon come to an end. Professor Thomas was at the time discussing Guyana’s political economy on the Politics 101 show with Associate Professor and Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) Dr. David Hinds. Dr. Thomas pointed out that what is most significant for the Guyanese people to understand is that if they are to alleviate many of their economic problems, particularly poverty through oil and gas wealth, they must do so now as the time the world needs to transition to clean energy is nearing. “Guyana has a limited time span for trying to make use of its oil and gas because the transition from carbon emitting energy to renewable energy is also going to be as rapid as it has been at the outset of the discovery of oil and gas.” Dr. Thomas estimated therefore, that there is only some four to five decades left to change the entire energy and the mix of energy that the world uses. “So, our opportunity with oil and gas is very limited,” the economist warned. He said now is the time to use the resource to its maximum as not to look back in regret when oil is no longer a commodity of priority. Dr. Thomas highlighted
Professor, Clive Thomas that the most significant activity taking place in the world right now is the pace at which change is occurring. He also pointed to how quickly global economical hardships escalated as a result of the Ukraine/Russia war regarding its effects on the world along with the short space of time Guyana would have discovered over 11 billion barrels of oil; the shortest time span ever seen in the world, among other events as evidence of an unprecedented change which the world is going through. In Guyana, the economy is also evolving at a rapid pace and that is bringing rise to many new and existing problems. Dr. Thomas reasoned however, that the time horizon that Guyana must solve its developmental problems is very short, “And that is why it is very important for us to come to grasp with them today.” Guyanese leaders may very well want to heed Dr. Thomas’ warning on Guyana’s short time to grow on oil and gas since a recent study from the Manchester University’s Tyndall Centre for Climate Change said that
rich countries had up to 12 years left to produce oil, while poor countries were given up to 28 years. The report by the U n i v e r s i t y ’s l e a d i n g researcher in Energy and Climate Change, Professor Kevin Anderson and Dr. Dan Calverley, warned that, “There is no room for any nation to increase oil production, with all having to make significant cuts this decade. The richest, which produce over a third of the world’s oil and gas, must cut output by 74 percent by 2030; the poorest, which supply just one ninth of global demand, must cut back by 14 percent.” Professor Anderson said that rich countries must end oil and gas production by 2034 to keep the world on track for 1.5°C and give poorer nations longer to replace their income from fossil fuel production. Considering countries’ differing levels of wealth, development and economic reliance on fossil fuels, the report says that the poorest nations should be given until 2050 to end production although they will still need significant financial support
PNCR condemns lawyer’s alleged racist behaviour towards policewoman The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) said yesterday that it is appalled by the alleged incident in which a police rank, Shawnette Boilers, was the victim of a “most vile and depraved” racial attack by Attorney-at-law Nirvan Singh, while she was on guard duty at his premises on the night of March 20th. In a statement to the media, the political opposition faction said, “The
unprovoked attack involved an assault, repeated spitting, and a verbal tirade of racial insults. The racial insults hurled at Ms. Boilers do not bear repeating. But understandably, the entire incident has left Ms. Boilers deeply traumatised.” The PNCR said that all Guyanese should join in condemning such offensive conduct and called on the leadership of the Guyana Police Force to ensure that
the matter is not swept under the carpet. The party stressed that Boilers should receive all the support needed to overcome her emotional distress. The PNCR also said, “We call on the Guyana Bar Association to publicly condemn the conduct of its member and to impose appropriate sanctions. We also urge the Women and Gender Equality (Continued on page 9)
to transition their economies. The Professor related that, “Responding to the ongoing climate emergency requires a rapid shift away from a fossil fuel economy, but this must be done fairly. There are huge differences in the ability of countries to end oil and gas production, while maintaining vibrant economies and delivering a just transition for their citizens. We have developed a schedule for phasing out oil and gas production that – with sufficient support for developing countries – meets our very challenging climate commitments and
does so in a fair way.” The energy and climate report also reminded that, when countries signed the UN Paris Agreement on climate change, they agreed that wealthy nations should take bigger and faster steps to decarbonise their economies, and also provide financial support to help poorer countries move away from fossil fuels. This principle, it was noted also applies to coal power generation, with the United Nations pushing for wealthy Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development(OECD) countries to phase out their
coal use by 2030 and the rest of the world by 2040. The Professor reasons that, “There is very little room for manoeuvre if we want to limit warming to 1.5°C. Although this schedule gives poorer countries longer to phase out oil and gas production, they will be hit hard by the loss of income. An equitable transition will require substantial levels of financial assistance for poorer producers, so they can meet their development needs while they switch to low-carbon economies and deal with growing climate impacts.”
Pres. Ali discusses critical opportunities for food security investments with Emirati Group
D
uring his visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week, President Irfaan Ali met with the Emirates Future Group, one of the largest Emirati companies working to achieve food security globally. In light of the company’s inherent drive and purpose, the engagement was therefore seen by the Head of State as being in line with the vision of Guyana and in keeping with the need for building a strategic relationship with the UAE. This newspaper understands that the Head of State met with officials of the Emirates Future Group represented by Mr. Jalal Suleiman Abu Sameer Director of Investment Projects and Mr. Yasser Muhammad Ali - Deputy General Manager. Their presence was on behalf of the General Manager of the group, Eng. Hussein Ghosheh. At the meeting, the investment opportunities available in the Republic of Guyana were discussed, and many promising opportunities were reviewed, which in turn would achieve the vision of the Republic of Guyana and the United Arab Emirates in the field of joint food security for the two countries. It should be noted that the
President Irfaan, Ali Emirates Future Group is seeking to increase its presence in Caribbean countries. In fact, Kaieteur News understands that they have expressed interest and optimism in investing in the Republic of Guyana in the fields of red meat and trade of livestock and related fields, starting with raising livestock on farms, building a n d m a n a g i n g slaughterhouses and logistics services, all the way to the stage of red meat reaching consumers. The Office of the President noted that the Emirates Future Group has decades of experience in the field of food security, in addition to its vast capabilities in supplying the countries of the world with basic foodstuffs. It is considered one of the
largest international companies working in the field of livestock, in addition t o h a v i n g t h e l a rg e s t livestock transport fleet around the world. Mr. Jalal Suleiman Abu S a m e e r, D i r e c t o r o f Investment Projects, expressed his thanks to the leadership and government of the Republic of Guyana, represented by President Irfaan Ali, for providing the opportunity for leading Emirati companies to be a strategic partner in developing the agriculture and livestock sector in the Republic of Guyana, and for extending bridges of cooperation between the two countries, which serves the vision of the interests of the two brotherly peoples and develops the cooperation to high levels that achieve the goals of food security.
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Kaieteur News
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
The Private Sector The Private Sector is in play, and it is glad to allow itself to be played by cunning leaders in todays government. The private sector is playing for money, as much as it can grab and get, and some of its bigger and more powerful members will do anything to get the best share of Guyanas oil and other money as is possible. As more and more Guyanese are seeing the light, it is becoming abundantly clear how far the private sector has gone, how far it will do, and how it doesnt give a hoot about how it looks. Guyanas private sector is big and it has involved itself in what is best described as bad business. To put the best spin on this, it is the kind of business that will bring many of the people in the local private sector, already inestimably rich from Guyanas bounties, even more untold riches from its oil and other natural resources endowments. Many members of Guyanas private commercial sector have positioned themselves well. They are at the side of powerful ruling political leaders who can make things happen for them with the snap of a finger. Just like that many hundreds of millions of dollars, even billions, come to them through contract awards, land grants, and other huge multibillion dollar public-private undertakings. When the influential private sector people are not in the ear of even more influential political powers, they are at their feet. They are at the feet of political leaders, who can make them or break them. So, they grovel before PPP/C Government leaders and willingly volunteer to rub their own noses in the dirt to get a piece of the oil action, a big piece, and many of them. The things that people are doing for money, the gutters into which they readily lower themselves, to get near the oil, through consortia arrangements, through subcontracts, and through a host of downstream business developments! Nothing is left out, nowhere is off-limits, and nobody else must get any part of Guyanas oil prizes. That is, if many huge presences in Guyanas private sector have their way. They are that insatiably greedy, they are that low that they will stoop to conquer the hearts of leaders just as criminally minded as themselves. It is why they make such a public spectacle of themselves, and without a shred of shame for their prostrations, their willing slaveries that all the world observes and shrinks in horror. It is how many, too many, in Guyanas growing private sector embarrass themselves, how they humiliate themselves, and how they condemn themselves. Other Guyanese are speaking out in scorn, with more than a few calling such grovelling Guyanese in the local private sector as blindly loyal politically. What do they know! That is what builds banks and makes vaults overflow. That is what builds great fortunes for generations to come, and which reminds us of what Honoré de Balzac once said. He said that behind every great fortune, there is an equally great crime. Great fortunes are in play in todays Guyana, thanks to our massive oil wealth. Men will go to great lengths to get the greatest share of that wealth, even if it means that this has to be at the expense of their poorer compatriots. Thus, if it has to be blindly loyal politically, so be it. If it has to be sickeningly crawling, then that is what it will be from Guyanas private sector, for the most part. Because that is what the political territory calls for, what pleases the political bosses, then just let it be. Where oil money is concerned men have no pride, they lose any self-respect and dignity that they may have had. They sell themselves for a sweet piece of the pie, and the larger the slices, more like the wedges, the better. This is what has happened in the Middle East and in parts of Africa, and right around the corner in next door Venezuela, even with our brothers in Trinidad. The favoured few ensure that they are well aligned (blindly loyal), so that they do very good when oil money millions are in play.
Saturday March 26, 2022
Some questions for the Local Government Ministers on the Haags Bosch landfill DEAR EDITOR, e learn from the Department of Public Information that in the 2022 national budget $1.4 billion of public funds were allocated to deal with the stench and other management issues at the Haags Bosch landfill located at Eccles, East Bank Demerara. Further, that more than 450 tonnes of waste per day are dumped in Cell one and currently, cell two receives approximately 500 tonnes of waste per day, and based on its capacity, the cells shelf life has reduced from seven years to five years (https:// dpi.gov.gy/haags-bosch-toget-40m-gas-managementsystem-to-reduce-stench/). Editor, through your newspaper, I ask Ministers Nigel Dharamlall and Anand Persaud the following questions: 1. What kinds of wastes from the activities of XOM and its contractors and subcontractors can be dumped safely at Haags Bosch? that is, the site is licenced to deal safely and permanently with the constituent chemicals?
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2. What kinds of wastes from the activities of XOM and its contractors and subcontractors cannot be dumped safely at Haags Bosch? that is, the site is not licenced to deal safely and permanently with the constituent chemicals? 3. What happens to the toxic waste passed by XOM and its contractors and subcontractors to Tiger Rentals Guyana Ltd. (see KN EPA waives EIA requirement for hazardous waste treatment facility at Houston 08 December 2021 https:// www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2021/12/08/epa-waives-eiarequirement-for-hazardouswaste-treatment-facility-athouston/ )? where are these toxic wastes ultimately deposited and in what quantities? What safety certificate covers the site of ultimate deposition? 4. What is the current tonnage of waste dumped into Haags Bosch daily by ExxonMobil (XOM)? Has it exceeded the 35 tonnes reported in October 2021 from just the first FPSO, Liza Destiny? And, if yes, what is the
current average in tonnes per day? (https:// www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2021/10/28/exxon-dumping35-tons-of-waste-daily-athaags-bosch/ ) 5. As XOM is planning for 10 FPSOs, 9 of them with twice the capacity of Liza Destiny, that seems to imply a daily waste tonnage from XOM operations in the Stabroek Tract of 500+ tonnes per day by 2030, that is, greater than the whole of Georgetowns current waste. Where will that be dumped safely and permanently? 6. What is the sum per tonne of waste that is billed to XOM or its contractors and subcontractors? Please supply a list of the invoices submitted per year and the corresponding receipts. 7. What is the price per truckload of waste that is billed to XOM or its contractors or sub-contractors for usage of the Haags Bosch access road? 8. If XOM is not being charged for dumping its offshore generated waste into Eccles, can the Minister(s)
say why not? 9. Given the PPPs electoral promise in its manifesto of January 2020 and given the confirmation of that promise in interview by then Presidential candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali to negotiate a new contract with XOM, shouldnt the comprehensive treatment of waste figure prominently in the new PSA? Will the negotiators for Guyana propose the call from Ms. Vanda Radzik take your waste back to Texas (KN 22 November 2021 https:// www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2021/11/22/take-your-wasteback-to-texas/) Editor, the crude oil that is extracted from Guyanas territory is transported to other countries. The waste is transported to our shores. What an unequal exchange. Guyana gets a degraded territorial sea, ExxonMobils trash, both hazardous and non-hazardous, and broken roadways; the residents of Eccles get the stench. Exxon and its partners get the petroleum. Regards, Janette Bulkan
Guyanas well-being is quite obvious DEAR EDITOR, “800 jobs for Region Two” is the word from Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and this is good news indeed. The VPs announcement stems from the governments decision to make available some 800 temporary jobs to these residents, in a move to supplement the income of those, as he puts it, “feeling the squeeze” of the increase in cost of living, engendered by external factors beyond Guyanas control. The whole idea itself is quite commendable, and shows that the government is both innovative and caring. Let me inform all of us that job creation is necessary simply because the more people work the more the economy becomes stable. Economic stability is needed before people can start making big investments in themselves and their children. So, when we create jobs, we cannot go wrong. I add that job creation and economic growth are related. It doesnt only allow us to develop more individually, but it can also benefit our countrys
economy by uplifting the private sector. In this way, we are empowering the communities by reducing unemployment rates and improving the life of our citizens. So, he details show that 250 small businesses will receive grants, and $600M will be invested to dredge the mouth of Pomeroon River, as after all, Region Two is primarily an agriculture-based region and the government is actively looking at ways and means to increase employment in the region. This current situation takes me back to the “US$35M Enmore manufacturing facility, which is to create over 500 jobs,” when it is fully up and running. What is so commendable is that, according to President Irfaan Ali, the progress of company will be tracked to ensure locals benefit adequately. This is great indeed as accountability is vital in this new Guyana that is emerging. I recall back in 2021, during the budget debate, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, S.C, explained the job-creation
scenario, saying that the government to lay the foundation and prepare the local economy to be conducive to job creation for Guyanese. He carefully explained that “You cant have a policy in the budget call job creation and just create jobs in isolation. What a government has to do is to prepare the economy, prepare the country to make it conducive for jobs to be created, and that is what the government is doing… We have specific programmes to target specific communities to attract investments to those communities to create jobs.” So, this Enmore thing is just another example. In the offing is that the government is aiming to employ some 1,000 Region Two residents through the establishment of call centres there. This year, it has allocated some $1 billion in the budget for road projects in the region, and this will also create hundreds of jobs for these Region Two people. Let me close by reminding all Guyanese that for five years, our country was on the back foot by “poor and
spiteful” economic policies implemented by the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, which saw thousands of Guyanese, from public servants to farmers, put on the bread line. The figures are there for examination, as some 30,000 workers lost their jobs under the APNU+AFC government and about 40,000 during the COVID-19 pandemics initial onslaught. Right now, the task is quite onerous, as the government has to fill these many jobbreaches, then start to really add new ones, and so far, the story is quite good. These 800 temporary jobs for Region Two residents is just one in a series of measures that the Dr. Irfaan Ali-led government has implemented to support Guyanese in need of help, since assuming office two years ago. Lots of things jobwise are co-occurring, and it is just a matter of time when there will be a wave of benefits to enjoy. Yours truly, Henry Singh
The lawyer must be sanctioned DEAR EDITOR, Nothing could have made me angrier the day I read the missive about the policewoman and Attorney-at-Law Nirvan Singh who (allegedly) verbally abused and spat on this police officer (KN 3/25/
2022). How dare him. Even if there were some provocation on the part of the policewoman that did not give Mr. Nirvan Singh the right to verbally abuse and spit on her or anyone for that matter, especially being an attorney he
should know better. This young man’s behaviour is absolutely abhorrent. He has not only let down his father Carl Singh - former Chancellor of the Judiciary, but has also let down the integrity of his profession. He
should be taught a lesson in humility. Monetary compensate his accuser and not be allowed to practice law for the next five years. I hope the court deals harshly with him. Sincerely, Gloria Holder
Saturday March 26, 2022
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Opposition $200,000 cash grant proposal commendable DEAR EDITOR, I must commend the opposition for thinking of the plight of Guyanese, especially heavily burdened ones and introducing something to ease their pain (“Opposition tables motion for $200,000 quarterly cash grant to cushion rising cost of living” KN March 15). The cost of living is killing poor Guyanese, which is what makes this opposition motion timely and meaningful. I like the sound of it, but I disagree with it.
Editor, I like the feel of it on the fingers, the sweetly sighing rustle of US$1000 in hand every three months. But I recoil from it. Though I wholeheartedly agree with any call for some form and level of urgent relief for struggling citizens, I shrink from almost doubling the minimum wage on a monthly basis right off the bat. When such policy and practice become the norm, then expectations are stirred, and there is no capping them
Conduct of legal professional anti-One Guyana DEAR EDITOR, The damning news item of a member of the esteemed legal profession allegedly behaving and displaying conduct of a very hostile and aggressive nature laced with demeaning and insulting language (KN Mar 25) is antiOne Guyana and must be strongly condemned. This has to be seen as an act of violence and violation against women. Regardless of how provoked or the circumstances which led to the outbursts there is just no place in
today’s Guyana for the treatment, as was alleged, to be meted out to the female rank. An apology does not cut it and the ERC should see this matter of grave concern to one of its core mandates of fostering and promoting racial harmony. The young legal professional should step aside from public life pending the outcome of an investigation. The female rank it is hoped would be able to overcome this transgression and ordeal and move on with time. Regards, Shamshun Mohamed
anymore; and while I appreciate as much as the next man what is unwittingly fostered, I leave that alone today. Considering the weight of price circumstances, I understand fully, though not nearly as much as the man-in-thestreet Guyanese, the ferocious effects of rapidly and broadly rising price pressures. I see it, I hear it, and I live amidst it. Something must be done, but that is too much of a plunge, too much from the inception. I can agree with a cash boost of $20,000 monthly using the same age and family criterion that the opposition employed; but not $200,000 quarterly. We could start an ugly spiral from which there would be difficulty reversing course. The PPP Government (forget the C-doesnt mean a damn thing) has already been splurging numerous billions on pet projects, public works projects, and projects that have no basis, and all at once.
Of course, I understand that this is one of the mechanisms by which its leaders fix themselves and their insiders handsomely. Now to attach to that weighty bill, the equivalent of more than three quarters of a million dollars annually for those over 18 years old would represent more than reckless spending habits. It would be the equivalent of sharing out money like drunken sailors on shore leave, with mostly little return for benevolence extended. Though Guyanese need immediate help, they also know
about hardship and thrift and struggle, and they know how to get by in the face of those. I am all for giving a helping hand with cash inside, but not so much and so often. I come back to that $20,000 per month stipend (COLA), call it whatever pleases. I could be persuaded to do as high as $30,000 a month,
but no more. The simple reason is that we cant afford it when the sum of overall spending is concerned. We could end up chasing the wind when we unleash economic forces that boomerang right back in our faces to chop off our heads. I have refrained from (Continued on page 6)
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Saturday March 26, 2022
Kaieteur News
Alcohol and conversion DEAR EDITOR, I do sympathize with Mr. Harripaul and anyone else who has to suffer the foolishness of a drunken state of others. Who has not had to bear that burden? What is offensive about his letter is that he thinks conversion to Christianity is the answer. I can assure everyone that here in
the USA the vast majority of alcoholics identify as Christians. Our Hindu weddings, as a rule, disturb no one. Where beer, wine and whisky are quaffed, it is in moderation. In 2019 I toured much of populated Guyana, often speaking at Hindu temples. I was made aware, and even experienced a taste, of
sloppy, inebriated behaviour at the wake of a recently deceased Hindu. Several of my Hindu hosts bemoaned the high rate of addiction among their friends and family. During a lecture tour in rural India I was exposed to the same problem. It seems that, as in Guyana, there is no real concept of “social drinking.” This
would be defined as having a drink or 2 in an evening that might put one in a relaxed state, Apparently, unless one is mentally obliterated, more drinks must be consumed. But the key here is not conversion. Hinduism offers more than enough parameters on behaviour that would, if followed, end this problem. What is needed is detailed
alcohol education that begins at a young age and strong social support for those caught in addiction that will lead to recovery. The conversion campaigns I saw during my trip there confirmed guesses that part of the problem of a fragmented Hindu community is proselytization. Finally, I applaud Hindu
priests who refuse to officiate at weddings where booze is served. This is a noble effort. I pray that more will follow the lead of such community stalwarts. Regards, Fred Stella Member, National Leadership Council Hindu American Foundation
Opposition $200,00... From page 5 delving into sophisticated economics concepts, but they do have bases in reality. \There is that dreaded I word, which introduces a situation of continually chasing our tails and trying to catch up with elusive equity. To conclude, my position is that ordinary Guyanese must benefit from their oil wealth, and not just family, cronies, and private sector
friends of PPP leaders. There is all this runaway spending, but it is highly skewed towards the already rich, the presently prospering. I hear the opposition and I call on the government, find a balance. Give a little something to poorer Guyanese, while richer ones flourish as usual, definitely too much today. Sincerely, GHK Lall
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . N . . . T U T L N N T U U L N L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N T U L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . NT LUNT...B NT...BLU N U L B . . B . U . . T L . N T B . . U N . L N T B U N . . L . U T L B . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L B U UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . LU ...BLUNT LUNT...B NT...BL T B U . . L N . T B BLU T...BLUN BLUNT... UNT...B . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B BBLU T...BLUN BLUNT... ...BLU . T . N . N T T U L U L N L B U T...BLU U B . L . N . B T . . . N T U N N N L U U U B L . L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Saturday March 26, 2022
Kaieteur News
It is quite heartening to hear that the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo is finally getting down to business, as he assured Guyanese that the government is now working to secure a guarantee from the parent company, ExxonMobil, in case an oil spill occurs here. But just before rejoicing, we would like to know what that guarantee is. We want to know the value of it. If it is not full liability coverage, meaning that the parent company covers excess damages beyond what can be satisfied by the US$2 billion insurance its subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) is presently offering, the government should remain at the drawing board! It ought to use the Yellowtail project approval as leverage to protect citizens and their environs.
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Saturday March 26, 2022
Growth of Guyana’s economy provides immense opportunities for investors - Agri. Minister O n Tu e s d a y, w h i l e delivering his address at the Couva/Point Lisas Chamber o f C o m m e r c e , “Opportunities for Doing Business in Guyana” stakeholders’ meeting, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha told
investors that the growth of Guyana’s economy provides immense opportunities for business, investment and trade. T h e s t a k e h o l d e r ’s meeting was held in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. While discussing some
possible areas for investment in the agriculture sector, the minister disclosed that G u y a n a ’s a g r i c u l t u r e , forestry, and fishing sectors are expected to expand by some 8.9 percent this year. He shared that Guyana has seen heightened consumer
preferences as a direct result of the influx of expatriates to serve oil and gas and auxiliary sectors. This, he added, has led to an increased demand for processed foods with greater domestic value-added. The minister then said,
“In light of the increasing demand for food, there is a high potential for future growth in the downstream components of the food value chain particularly processing, wholesaling, retailing and logistics. The Government of Guyana recognizes the importance of partnering with the private sector to improve and develop our food systems. As a result, the Government of Guyana has facilitated and created an environment that supports investments across all sectors.” Minister Mustapha also said that there are opportunities that would guarantee favourable returns in both the traditional and non-traditional agriculture sectors. The Argiculture Minister then stated that in the traditional and nontraditional sectors, there are many investment opportunities. He then listed the rice sector and stated that opportunities exist for rice production in Region Nine, where vast Savannah lands are available. Minister Mustapha also pointed out the other areas for investment for the downstream processing of rice into different kinds of pasta, noodles, cereals, snack foods, etc. Minister Mustapha added, “For corn and soya beans, the soil in Guyana’s Immediate Savannah has adequate soil and climatological conditions for the implementation of largescale grain farming for these crops to about 85,000 acres. There are also areas for investment in the poultry, beef, swine, and small ruminant production sector. Agro-processing and aquaculture are also two
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha. subsectors with great promise that would guarantee tremendous returns on your investment.” Also, during his two-day visit to the twin-island Republic Minister Mustapha met with several Guyaneseborn businessmen and women. Since taking office the government has been adamant about engaging and encouraging Guyanese living overseas to play their p a r t i n t h e c o u n t r y ’s development by returning home and investing in the economy. As such while speaking with the Guyanese business personnel, the minister gave them a glimpse of some of the investment opportunities in the agriculture sector in Guyana and also invited them to explore the possibilities for doing business in the country. To this end he said, “Invest in not just transforming Guyana’s agrifood system but the CARICOM Region’s Agrifood system, as Guyana plays a major role in providing food to the Region.” He also highlighted that the government was aggressively working on creating an environment conducive to the growth and development of the country.
One person in COVID-19 ICU - five new infections recorded With the country’s COVID-19 death toll at 1,226 since March 16, the Ministry of Health yesterday revealed that one person was admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit at the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Liliendaal. The Ministry in its latest dashboard reported that within the last 24-hour
period, health authorities have recorded five new cases across the country, taking the overall number of confirmed cases to 63,194. Further, the dashboard data shows that 12 persons are in institutional isolation, 12 quarantined institutionally and 139 in home isolation. To date, a total of 61,812 recovery cases have been recorded.
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Kaieteur News
Factories and call centres are palliatives The Minister of Agriculture is reported to have said that Guyana’s growing economy provides opportunities for business, trade and investment. However, it does not seem as if the growth of the economy, correspondingly, is providing greater opportunities for rural employment. The economy has been growing for a long time and rural Guyana has been a contributor to that growth. However, rural employment is stagnated. The Second Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo is now on a mission to rein in rural unemployment. The newscast on the state-owned radio yesterday reported him as announcing that the government will facilitate investment for the Essequibo Coast by providing infrastructure for those interested in establishing call centres and factories. He was reported as saying that the government will construct the shell of the buildings for such investments. The choice of call centres and factories is revealing. These are intended to create large swathes of employment opportunities. For the 12 years in which he was President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo failed to solve the problem of rural unemployment. Why does he think it will happen now that the
situation is more abysmal? A sense of foreboding and hopelessness pervades rural Guyana. There are limited employment opportunities for young people. So desperate is the situation, that highly qualified persons are willing to take entry-level jobs. No wonder there is such a high rate of migration from the countryside to the urban centres and to overseas. Guyana has internal economic refugees. People are running away from where they were born and raised in order to seek greener pastures. Over time, palliative measures were pursued but these have not stemmed the massive migration from the countryside. The most recent initiative called the Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Development (READ) Project was supposed to have provided assistance to some 5,200 poor rural persons. These initiatives do not address the root causes of rural underdevelopment. And there is no reason to believe that the “call centres and factories” initiative will do any better. The call centre initiative is not new. It has been tried before and has not been highly successful. The “call centres and factories” plans offer false hopes. The infrastructure does not exist to excite inves-
tors to make those long-term investments that would generate large-scale employment. Students in rural areas have complained bitterly about poor broadband. And electricity reliability is a problem. Unless these things change, no one is going to get excited about setting up a call centre which requires not only stable and advanced bandwidth but also hard- to-comeby overseas customers. Stand-alone initiatives will not ease the high levels of rural unemployment and underemployment. What is needed is a rural development strategy. But none exists. The government has no grand plans for rural Guyana. The revised Low Carbon Development Strategy only mentions investments in rural electrification, and the creation of small businesses, tourism and aquaculture as providing opportunities for women in rural areas. But there is no mention of a specific rural development plan. None whatsoever! But no rural development strategy or plan will work unless it addresses the root causes of rural underdevelopment. The constraints to rural development are well known. Land ownership remains a major constraint. The majority of lands are
PNCR condemns lawyer’s alleged... From page 3 Commission and the Ethnic Relations Commission to fulfill their mandates by investigating this incident. We also expect all of civil society to add its voice in condemnation.” It added, “The PPP/C must desist from creating conditions that result in Guyanese citizens being treated in this unacceptable manner. The silence of the PPP/C on this violation of the rights of Boilers is a clear indication of the PPP/C complicity in this heinous act.” As a country, the PNCR
said, work must be done to ensure that abuses of persons based on their gender or race do not become normalized. “We must relentlessly root out and reject all such behavior by anyone, but especially by those who believe they are privileged by their social status or political connections.” The PNCR said it will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure Boilers receives proper assistance and full justice. Nirvan Singh is the son of former Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh. The
policewoman was conducting official duties at the Singhs’ residence when she alleged that the younger Singh, unprovoked, got into her face, used racial slurs against her and chased her from his property. The policewoman in a lawyer’s letter said she reported the incident to her superiors who instead of addressing the situation sent her back to the residence to resume work. Boilers, among other things, wants the young Singh charged and his actions condemned.
Dem Boys Seh…
Guyana get de last laugh How yuh can get pull-up fuh talking de truth? One man is reported to talk dat de Trinidad economy falling down. As far as dem boys know dis is de truth. De economy nah falling down. It done fall down. It deh in crisis. It de pun its knees. So wah wrang with people sehing how de Trinidad economy in problems. De Trinidadians demselves gan admit to dat. But is one thing fuh criticise yuh own country and people. And is another thing to criticise another
man country. As ole people used to say “do suh nah like suh.” Deh had a time when everybody used to wash dem mouth pun Guyana. Dem used to laugh at we and talk how we nah gat food fuh eat. Dem was talking de truth but it used to hurt we. Dem used to say how we does only get US$40 fuh carry out de country. Dem bin talking de truth because dis was wah de Bank of Guyana used to approve fuh yuh fuh travel out de country. But we used to feel hurt when dem tell we duh. Wan country had a spe-
cial bench fuh Guyana at dem airport, even though dem deny dis. And when yuh end up pun de bench, yuh does feel shame. Suh shame dat when yuh come back and yuh family ask yuh how yuh return suh quick, yuh used to tell dem dat yuh nah like de place. Suh yuh gat to understand how dem Trini feel when dem hear criticism of dem country by outsiders. But we should remind dem dat “who laugh last, does laugh de best.” Talk half and laugh de other half.
owned by a minority of persons. The landless need land and this should be the starting point of any rural development plan. But the PPP/C is so attached to the landed classes that it is disinclined to engage in land reforms which would empower the landless. An IDB report in 2017 pointed to some other issues in the agricultural sector. These included poor infrastructure, insufficient storage facilities, low production concentration, obsolete technology, low-value added and costly access to finance. While the formal financial sector has expanded its roots into rural communities, feudal relations still exist, a development related not only to land use but also to money-lending licences which perpetuate
such relations. The PPP/C also does not wish to touch the issue of revaluation of properties so as to increase the taxes paid to local authorities. The APNU+AFC was also similarly disinclined. If realistic rates and taxes are paid, the economy of rural Guyana will be boosted. The bulk of government’s Budget is recurrent expenditure. And most of that recurrent expenditure is spent in the towns and city where most of the Ministries and government offices are located. The government needs to devolve more of its operations to rural Guyana. It will save millions in the process because rates and taxes are far lower in rural areas than in the city. But it will also allow for greater spending in rural
areas and this will boost the rural economy. There are therefore, far better ideas available for rural development than Jagdeo’s “call centres and factories”. But piecemeal and stand-alone ideas will not suffice. These must be incorporated into a rural development strategy. And who better to do this than someone who specialises in rural economics. (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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Saturday March 26, 2022
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
War break! Lunatic fringe fighting among themselves
I
have to tread carefully with Winston Jordan. I don’t mind ending up in court for a stupid discretion. But after 33 years of television and newspaper commentary and analysis, I know a little about libel. Libel hurts me for one reason only. Mr. Glenn Lall, the owner of Kaieteur News told me each time I receive a libel writ, I have to find my own lawyer. It has been like that since I started writing for the newspaper. Knowing Mr. Lall the way I do, he would have no objection with me revealing
this instruction, and I have printed it twice before on this page. Mr. Lall would not object to me publishing an advice the newspaper gave me. So over the decades of writing, I have had to beg lawyers I know to defend me freely in all my libel cases. Now with this background, why would I want to encourage libel writs being thrown on me? So here is a reference to Mr. Jordan that I hope begins and ends here. I use the exclamation, “war break” because I like it and I took it from a speech he
gave in August 2019 in Bartica in reference to the halt in house-to-house registration. I will continue to use this exclamation because I like it; “war break” sounds nice. Well, war break! Two members from the lunatic fringe are at war. I don’t want any libel so I will use codes to name them - TUM and WAM. Before we describe the war between TUM and WAM, another member of the lunatic fringe wants to have me on his show. Well, I have to big up myself. I guess in this sadistic, narrow-minded society, one has to say who one is and proclaim the things they have done. When I was sent the clip that this member of the lunatic fringe wants me on his programme, I told the email sender that I was not going to be the marketing manager of this propagandist who deserted his country after failing to become president in the 2015 elections when he ran for the presidency. Man, people say all kinds of things about me but I am a
very sane person. Imagine me trying to win the presidency from gigantic names like Donald Ramotar and David Granger. Well this man lost. He got 111 votes and migrated to New York. This gentleman wants me on his programme. Really! If I go on his programme, war will break. Let’s describe the war between TUM and WAM. WAM accousted TUM on Zoom and in the newspapers told TUM, that the trade union movement has failed the workers. The trade union movement in effect is dormant because they are not standing up to the PPP. Given some of WAM’s traits, it is logical why he ended up being part of the lunatic fringe. He played right into the hands of TUM. I am no fan of TUM but he “sock it” to WAM. He told WAM that his party had its two big leaders in the APNU+AFC government who refused to sign collective bargain agreement with the unions, mistreated the teachers’ union and did
nothing for the unions. Now read how stupid and barefaced the lunatic fringe is. Instead of apologising to TUM over the complete and Frederick Kissoon h u m i l i a t i n g Or alternatively walk out incompetence of WAM’s two leaders in of the government because government, WAM with you have become doormats. One of the big leaders in overflowing ignorance replied saying it was the the AFC on a recent radio PNC that prevented his two programme told listeners big wigs from acting. TUM that then Prime Minister, then tore into him, and Moses Nagamootoo tried to rightfully so, because it was bring about far-reaching changes during the tenure of a moronic response. So the obvious question the APNU+AFC but the is – why the two leaders in a PNC prevented him. In the coalition government were panel discussion, the AFC not allowed to formulate and leader exclaimed: “Poor He implement their party’s Prime Minister.” programme in government. couldn’t be a poor Prime If WAM’s party was part of Minister when he led one t h e g o v e r n m e n t a s a half of the government from coalition partner and was 2015 to 2020. Anyway, war break, being shackled, then two more fighting coming, I’m alternatives were available. One was when their sure. (The views expressed in capacity to make policies was stultified they had to tell this article are those of the the collegial bullies to put the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t nuts where the monkey put necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.) them.
Saturday March 26, 2022
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Saturday March 26, 2022
Int’l logistics giant DHL opens spanking new office in Linden DHL, a world renowned logistics giant which delivers 1.6 billion parcels per year, and serves over 220 countries, has opened a spanking new office in Amelia’s Ward, Linden. In fact, a special event was held on Saturday, March 19, 2022, to mark this historic occasion, following which, the company’s doors were officially opened to the general public on March 21, 2022. With respect to why Linden was chosen, DHL’s senior management team told Kaieteur News that statistics they researched showed that Region 10 has approximately 40,000 adults for which Linden is the regional capital and the center of activities and administration. It therefore made sense for the company to make international and high quality shipping services more easily accessible to these consumers, the team stated. While Guyana’s future is bound to take off by considerable leaps and bounds on account of the oil sector, DHL said Guyana’s economic growth is not solely hinged on this new resource. Members of the Senior Management Team articulated that the country’s economic prospects also lie in the development of its inland areas where vast expanses of untouched resources such as gold await wise attention. “There is a pathway to
Maurice John, DHL (Guyana) Executive Director; Mrs Ruth Jeffers, DHL Chief Financial Officer; and Maurice John Senior, DHL Director of Finance. these resources. In fact, we believe that Linden is a strategically positioned hub of this pathway. Furthermore, we are of the view that there is also the South American mainland access problem that dictates a solution through a pathway to the Atlantic Ocean as a necessity for commercial trade in the near future. This pathway of the logistics linkage that presents a solution passes smack through Region 10 where Linden is the center of activities and because of our foresight in this regard, we have moved to have a base set up here,” said DHL Senior Management team. They continued, “Our strategic planners have reviewed and determined it is time for our retooled, refreshed, retrained,
Syreeta Welcome, Managing Director and Part Owner for Guywillship
modernized service and presence to be strategically inserted in Linden to be a part of what we foresee as the refreshing times that are coming to Linden.” The team added, “We are here to help Lindeners enjoy the fruits of development that our services bring.” Specifically, Executive Director at DHL, Maurice John said, “I believe that it was necessary that we expand our services to Linden as part of our growth plan 101. Parika happens to be next, hopefully in the third quarter. But I also wish to note that Linden is necessary because it demonstrates our confidence in the economy and is a testimony to the conducive business environment being created by the government.” The Executive Director added, “It would be remiss of me not to highlight that this is the initiative of our CEO Ms Ingrid Bristol who is adamant about us growing in tandem with the government’s vision and in line with its agenda for there to be massive development across all sectors country wide. The mining community needs us and it is a critical hub for DHL. Lindeners can therefore expect nothing but the best from us.” COVID-19 CHALLENGE Since 2020, the world and particularly trade and shipping markets have had to operate under the most u n p r e c e d e n t e d circumstances. This manifested in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic which unleashed painful supply shocks globally. Irrespective of the lockdown measures, among other restrictions that were implemented to avert more catastrophic impacts
Director of Social Media Management, Alicia Welcome of GuyWillShip and Operations Managing Director and Co-CEO of GuyWillShip, Gavin welcome
from the deadly virus, businesses, individuals, families still needed to have their supplies procured online delivered to their door. DHL was keen to note that it was determined to fill the gap between supplier and door and make life a bit easier for consumers. It disclosed that there was a significant increase in cargo transport worldwide while admitting that it was swamped with demand on its existing resources. But being the solutions oriented provider that it is, DHL
have had to revisit all systems, refresh and retrain, update and modernize all areas of operations and personnel. We were able to execute these tasks effectively and efficiently. It remains an ongoing process too.” DHL HISTORY DHL was founded on September 25, 1969 in San Francisco USA, by three ambitious businessmen: A d r i a n D a l s e y, L a r r y Hillblom and Robert Lynn, in response to the dire need for express shipping at the time.
problem and analysed it and worked out a solution. They began to fly the documents, starting from San Francisco, California, USA to Honolulu, Hawaii USA. The result was that documents arrived in time for clearance and business benefited from cost savings. Since those hallowed days of early beginnings and start up, DHL has expanded and transformed this transportation industry worldwide. DHL is now the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Its network now
proudly stated that it had stepped up and invested in the expansion that was needed to meet the new and growing demand. With respect to its Guyana operations, DHL management said, “We have had to retool, that is, build back our systems, increase our capacity, personnel and equipment, and retrain for higher levels of accuracy and output. In the midst of all this came the booming oil sector. This resulted in more demand for time sensitive delivery of cargo of all types, sizes and values.” Management added, “We
In the 1960s, it was painfully evident that shipping documents were taking too long to be delivered by overland transportation arriving long after ships were in port. This meant the cargo could not be processed, cleared or unloaded leading to significant costs being incurred for delayed clearance, storage, docking etc. Business was also delayed and money and time were lost. In the world of business, a problem requires a solution, hence the aforementioned entrepreneurs saw the
offers an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. Around the world, there are about 400,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized (Continued on page 14)
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Saturday March 26, 2022
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GWU calls for removal of Income Tax, increase in minimum wage to cushion cost of living woes
T
he General Workers Union (GWU) staged a protest action outside Parliament Building yesterday calling for, among other things, the abolition of Income Tax, the honouring of the increased minimum wage agreement and the distribution of cash grants to citizens to alleviate the high cost of living. T h e w o r k e r s ’ representative group registered its disappointment with the State’s handling of the ongoing living increase issues and demanded that government make earnest efforts to aid those most affected. GWU’s President, Norris Witter, is adamant that as Guyanese face this economically trying time, government must immediately honour the tripartite agreement that it accepted to raise workers’ pay from the minimum wage of $44,200 to $60,000. He said that ultimately, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton is responsible for ensuring that the agreement is honoured, since it was taken to the government for Cabinet’s approval. “When this $60,000 minimum wage was agreed to in 2019, the Minister is on record on April 21 saying to
this nation that his intention is to sign the agreement in the near future.” Witter said that in February 2022, the minister was again on record stating that all parties, which included the government, had agreed to the arrangements and that the matter was taken to Cabinet for approval; to be signed and placed in the gazette. To d a t e , t h i s n e w minimum wage has not been available to citizens, and the union says it should be made available now. Additionally, the union is demanding fresh minimum wage negotiations since they believe the agreed upon wage increase has no bearing on the current cost of living. Wi t t e r s a i d , “ t h a t $60,000 that was agreed to in 2019 bears no relationship with the cost of living today. Therefore, what we are demanding is that the order to bring into force this agreement must be signed immediately and concomitant to that, new negotiations must commence for a new minimum wage.” GWU also called for the abolition of income tax - Pay As You Earn (PAYE) claiming that high officials and large oil companies with the means of making the required payments are
President Norris Witter (third from left) with GWU members during their demonstration outside Parliament Building exempted while ordinary Guyanese must honour those obligations that are discriminatory. “By now the nation is aware that this multi-billion giant… ExxonMobil does not pay a cent tax to Guyana. The nation should also be aware that high officials within the judiciary who have the means to pay taxes, because they earn more than 30 percent of the current minimum wage, do not pay taxes also.” Witter reminded that it was just last November that a court ruling found that the tax exemptions to Chancellor of the Judiciary and the Chief Justice, is discriminatory and in violation of the Prevent of Discrimination Act Chapter 99:08, after the
matter had been challenged by a judge. “So, we are saying if ExxonMobil and high officials in the judiciary, including an executive, if they are not paying tax, then it is wrong, it is discriminatory for the poor and suffering workers to be subjected to taxation.” On the note of ExxonMobil, GWU said it is also protesting in favour of renegotiating the oil contract Guyana has with the company. Witter said that if renegotiating the oil agreement gives Guyana its fair share of patrimony, the benefits would not only allow for the abolition of income tax, but it would provide a greater opportunity for cash grants
to be delivered directly to the people. He said, “the State will have capacity to honour if not bi-annually, on a yearly basis, to give cash grants to its citizens as other oil nations are giving to its citizens.” Furthermore, Witter called for the reinstatement of the collective bargaining mechanism that allows unions to negotiate various benefits for their members. Witter said that the collective bargaining agreement arrangement was discontinued under the previous People Progressive Party government and although the Coalition government had campaigned to reinstitute this avenue, they too denied workers’ representatives that right
when they came to power. Witter said that government has spoken to the high cost of living and believes that more must be done that becomes consistence with what is happening today. He said, “The indignity of poverty has visited us for far too long. In a land of abundant resources, which includes oil, no citizen should go to bed hungry.” Guyana, along with the rest of the world is facing high food prices, service, transportation, travel and shipping costs as a result of the more than two -year long COVID-19 virus impact which has been compounded by the Russia/Ukraine war that has most notably, driven up the global price of crude.
Foreigners will not be allowed to bully US assures border controversy will not be part Guyanese in oil sector - VP Jagdeo of talks with Venezuela - VP Following his meeting with visiting United States (US) Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for Caribbean Affairs and Haiti, Barbara Feinstein yesterday, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said the US has assured that the Guyana border controversy case will not be a part of any discussion it holds with Venezuela. The Vice President who spoke at a press conference after his meeting on Friday stated that the US has agreed to share information with Guyana about what takes place in those meetings it would have the neighbouring country in the future. “We spoke a bit about the border too and the assurances that have been communicated publically by the Deputy Assistant Secretary, were repeated at the meeting about the US’s position in relation to our sovereignty. We were assured first of all that Guyana did not come and our sovereignty would not be part of any such discussions and that we will continue to share more information about what takes place in these discussions in the future,” the VP told members of the media. As previously reported, on March 8, 2022, Guyana had submitted to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The
Hague, Netherlands, its Memorial on the merits of its case against Venezuela. The submission takes the court one step closer to ruling on the matter. The submission is required by the Court following its decision of 18 December, 2020 to hear the case. The decision was a confirmation of its jurisdiction to decide the merits of Guyana’s border claims. The court case stems from the dispute between Guyana and Venezuela about the ownership of the Essequibo Region. The matter is before the Court pursuant to the decision of the Secretary General (SG) of the United Nations under the 1966 Geneva Agreement, by which the parties conferred upon the SG the authority to determine the means by which the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela shall be settled. Kaieteur News previously reported that Guyana seeks from the Court a decision that the Arbitral Award of 1899 determining the boundary is valid and binding upon Guyana and Venezuela, and that the boundary established by that Award and the 1905 Agreement demarcating it, is the lawful boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.
Since the introduction of Guyana’s Local Content Legislation, Trinidadians commentators across the private sector have issued several statements challenging the document and its compliance with C A R I C O M ’s R e v i s e d Treaty of Chaguaramas. They believe it ought to be reviewed for grounds of compliance since the law could slow down the pace at which they can spread their tentacles in Guyana’s oil sector. During a press conference held yesterday, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, categorically stated that Guyana will not back down on its Local Content Law which protects the right of Guyanese to first access to opportunities in their oil sector. In fact, the Vice President said foreigners will not be allowed to bully Guyanese. “We will not be bullied. Many believe that they can
Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo bully us now into removing the local content law that we have set aside for our people to improve on and Guyanese can now benefit from this,” Jadgeo told reporters. The VP added that although Guyana has a treaty agreement with CARICOM, his government will not stand aside and allow any country to bully Guyanese for their own resources. “ We h a v e t r e a t y
obligations and we are a member of CARICOM and we want to be a member of CARICOM. CARICOM is a valuable part of our family, so we will uphold our treaty obligations but somehow, they believe they have a God given right to displace Guyanese too, in our own country from our own resources and we are not going to stand by and allow that to happen regardless of how much they cuss me. I don’t care who cuss me,” said the VP. He added, “We are not going to discriminate against Trinidadians. We want Trinidadians to come here… We are grateful to the support they have given to our people…but they have to come in partnership with our people and our people must not be treated as second class citizens.” Guyana’s local content legislation was passed on the last day of 2021 to prevent (Continued on page 18)
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Tucville serial rapist found guilty of raping, battering Venezuelan woman A mixed 12-member jury on Friday found accused Tucville serial rapist, Thurston Semple, guilty of battering and raping a Venezuelan sex worker. Semple, 38, a taxi-driver of Lot 5A, Tucville Terrace, Georgetown was committed to stand trial in the High Court for that offence last April. The jury was empanelled earlier this month for the trial of the matter in the Demerara High Court before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. Semple denied the charge which stated that between February 24, and February 25, 2021, at Tucville, Georgetown, he engaged in sexual penetration with the 30-yearold Venezuelan woman without her consent. The latter charge stated that on the same day and at the same location, he caused the said woman actual bodily harm. However, on Friday after two hours of deliberating, the jury returned with two guilty verdicts. Justice SewnarineBeharry deferred Semple’s sentencing to April 29, 2022 and ordered that a mental health examination be conducted and a probation report be provided for Semple. The case was prosecuted by State Counsel, Nafeeza
Saturday March 26, 2022
New Demerara River Bridge Consultation off to a bad start …Patterson calls for design first Former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson
Found guilty, Thurston Semple. Muntaz Ali and Latifah Elliot while Semple was represented by attorney-atlaw Everton Singh-Lammy. According to the victim, on the February 24, 2021, she was on the corner of Jenny’s Family store in front of the Nova International Hotel, Georgetown when around 22:30 hours Semple drove up in his vehicle and spoke with her. He eventually made an agreement with the woman for $10,000 and as such she left with him and they went to his residence. Upon arrival, she went into his house, sat on his bed and smoked a cigarette. The two then engaged in sexual intercourse. However, (Continued on page 17)
Int’l logistics giant DHL opens... From page 12 solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing and energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL believes it is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world” DHL is part of Deutsche (Doi-chey) Post DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than $66 billion euros in 2020.
T
he Environmental Assessment Board (EAB), an arm of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is set to host a public consultation in the new week on the impacts of the new Demerara River Bridge. However, former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, holds the view that a consultation without a design for consideration is equivalent to building a house without any foundation. In a recent interview with Kaieteur News, Patterson said a design of the structure would determine the noise, traffic and other key impacts the project will have on nearby residents. To this end, he concluded that a design must be submitted first for one to effectively measure or quantify the impacts residents can possibly brace for. In fact, the former Minister argued that the country is still in the dark as to whether the government has accepted the proposal from the second best bidder for the project. In February, Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed that negotiations with China State Construction Engineering Corporation
Ltd. were terminated, as the cost of financing was too high. The company had submitted the lowest bid of US$256,638,289 to the National Procurement and Tender Administration B o a r d ( N P TA B ) , b u t currently government is in talks with the company that will be constructing the Amaila Falls Hydropower plant, to build the new Demerara River Bridge. Although it has been just close to two months since the announcement, the Irfaan Ali-led administration has not made a pronouncement on whether the proposal by the new company has been approved. To this end, Patterson said, “They disclosed during the Su interview that they are going to the second bidder but they have not disclosed what the result of the negotiations with the second bidder was.” As a consequence, he argued, “It is unclear what they are going to consult the people about, because there is no design, there is no cost, they don’t know exactly how, based on this new design how many houses will be relocated, what would be the noise nuisance, the traffic inconvenience,
there is absolutely nothing in the public space that I have seen about this project other than that they cancelled the first bidder which Cabinet approved in November last year.” The former Minister of Public Infrastructure is adamant that the design of the new crossing would determine where connector roads would be built or developed, the level of pollution, in terms of dust and noise and others. “It is very unclear as to what they will be consulting the people on. The type of bridge, where the roads are going to go, what is the pollution, noise and dust and things like that can’t be determined at this stage in the absence of a design, unless they have signed something and not told the public what they have done,” he asserted. Further to this, Patterson said he believes the consultation process is a mere “smoke-screen” to convince the public that the project is still alive, when in reality, the entire process ought to be reformulated. Last August, the EPA said an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was not required for the construction of the structure, as it will not “significantly” affect the environment. However, according to the regulator’s Screening Decision for the project, published on its website, it was explained that impacts to air quality can be expected, coupled with noise and vibrations and surface water quality. Some 24 lots are expected to be acquired to facilitate the new bridge as well, while approximately
2,360m2 (47.2m x 50m) of mangroves will also be removed on the Western end of the Demerara River to facilitate the bridge. In November 2020, the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of P u b l i c Wo r k s i n v i t e d Expressions of Interest for the construction of a new bridge across the Demerara River. It was in October of last year that bids were received from contractors for the design, construction and financing of the proposed four-lane structure. Even though government said the contractors would be financing the project, in its 2022 Budget some $21.1B was allocated for the construction of the new bridge. On November 1, last year, the Ministry of Finance announced that Cabinet had granted its no-objection for the Ministry of Public Works to engage China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd. to construct the new bridge. At that time, it was pointed out that the project would be done under the Design Finance and Build (DFB) model with construction expected to conclude within two years. It was later revealed that government was in talks with the second lowest bidder, a Consortium of Chinese companies to construct the new bridge. The firms are: China Railway Construction Corporation International, China Railway Caribbean Company Limited and China Railway Engineering Bureau Group Company Limited submitted three (Continued on page 17)
Saturday March 26, 2022
Kaieteur News
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WANTED
LEGAL NOTICE
One cook to work in the interior,male or female. Call: 698-4064.
IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE GUYANA CIVIL JURISDICTION 2021- HC- DEM- CIV- FDA’1706ESME WILLIAMS ApplicantBEFORE THE HONOURABLE MR. JUSTICE NAVINDRA SINGHDATED THE 28TH DAY OF JANUARY 2022 ENTERED THE 11 th DAY OF MARCH 2022Mr. R. Hunte, Attorney-at-law for the ApplicantORDER THIS APPLICATION made by ESME WILLIAMS for An Order that the Registrar of Deeds do pass Transport for one undivided halfpart or share of and in the west three quarters of lot numbered 379 (three hundred and seventy-nine) section B, Victoria, in the Grove Haslington Local Government District, situate on the east sea coast of the county of Demerara,Republic of Guyana, the said lot being shown on a diagram by J.T. Seymour,Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 16th November, 1909, and deposited in the Deeds Registry at Georgetown, on the 23 rd May, 1922. without the building thereon, the property of ALBERTHA BURROWES SAMUELS as more fully described in transport numbered 995/ 1986 to and in favour of the Applicant, ESME WILLIAMS.An Order that the Applicant herein. ESME WILLIAMS be authorized to applyfor, pay and obtain from the Commissioner of Guyana Revenue Authority and Grove-Haslington Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Certificates of Compliance in respect of the said property.Such further or other Orders as the Court mav deem justUPON READING the Fixed Date Application with Affidavit in Suppoft sworn to andfiled herein on the 20th December, 2021 AND UPON HEARING the submissions of theAttorney-at-law for the Applicant.THIS COURT ORDERS that the Registrar of Deeds do pass Transport for one undivided half part or share of and in the west three quarters of lot numbered 379 (three hundred and seventy-nine) section B, Victoria, in the Grove Haslington Local Government District, situate on the east sea coast of the county of Demerara, Republic of Guyana, the said lotbeing shown on a diagram by J.T. Seymour, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 16 th November,1909, and deposited in the Deeds Registry at Georgetown, on the 23rd May, 1922, without the building thereon, the property of ALBERTHA
Motor Lorry drivers needed and Porters. Tel:627-1835/ 626-4691.
VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable. Contact:649-0956.
PROPERTY FOR SALE JFWW Network Real Estate houselots for sale gated community,$4 Mil GYD zero down payment.Messageto whatsapp: 622-1957. Great Diamond,Tuschen, Onderneeming, Haslington, Eccles & more.Contact:2278274/223-6035/673-6210.
SERVICES Massages and Rehabilitation physical preparation personalized training. Bachelor in Physical Education and Sports: Kirenia Ballard Bell.Call:669-6910. Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040.
Georgetown Guyana 4units (1 commercial & 3 residential) balcony & car parking, whatsapp 643-5444.
LAND FOR SALE 48 acres of transported rice land situated in Goodhope, East Bank Essequibo. Contact:1-917-807-6424/688-9077.
VACANCY 2 professional nail technician & one make up artist,location Grove E.B.D.Call:652-5800. One female to work in Mobile food van.Contact:689-4339. WB Cleaning & Janitorial Services,hiring male & female age 25-40yrs.Tel:698-3644/ 503-2502. One excavator operator and one grader operator to work in Diamond.Contact:6321118/647-4161. Billing clerk & Porters, location Stabroek Market. Experiences is an asset. Contact: 661-1000,226-9800. For person to straighten wheel and assemble bicycle, apply in person at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda. Experienced roti/puri cook, kitchen assistant, cleaners. Apply at Hack’s Halaal Restaurant,5 Commerce st.
FOR SALE
WANTED
Prime Business Spot, located at Zeelugt public road,3 storey building & 1/2 acres at Parika.Call:650-0402/6520251/260-4115.
Masoner& Labourers. Please contact Damion on 681-9554.
2 pure breed german shepherd, black & tan seven wks old,fully vaccine. Contact: 650-9998 or 626-0953.
Wanted skilled carpenters, masons & labourers to work in GeorgeTown & Linden. Contact: 657-5800 / 615-7526/ 602-9469/ 660-6385.
2-1 acres land@ blankenbu rg W.C.D. Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251. 1-40 acres land@Linden Highway.Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251. Furnish house and land for sale on Ferry Street,New Amsterdam, Berbice.Call 6792497. White Toyota Verossa, price 1.8Mil. Call:608-6948.
One male able bodied clerk.Tel:225-2313/226-1497.
2 porters.Call:223-9677. Live in or out waitress, boarding & lodging free, $20,000 wkly 18-25yrs. Tel:610-3974. 1 Hauler driver wanted. Contact:611-7088 for more details. Engineers wanted to work with construction company. Contact Seema on 226-9416. Construction foreman wanted to work with construction company.Contact Seema on 226-9416. Water truck driver on West Bank Demerara.Tel:686-9296.
FOR RENT Bobby’s RealityFor Sale or rent, good for business– 4.018 acres of prime land in New Amsterdam, Berbice. Reduce Price.Call 679-2497. Bobby’s RealityLarge Property with Huge Concrete Bond, Prime Location Cumberland, Canje. Ideal for Business. Sale or rent. Reduce Price.Call 679-2497.
Saturday March 26, 2022
Kaieteur News
Experienced/mature minibus driver,preferably from the East Bank.Contact:698-6205. General domestic covid 19 vaccinated for Tuesday & Saturday between Cove & John & Unity area E.C.D. Tel:259-0953/623-3231. Female to take care of an elderly male between the ages of 25 to 40. Accommodations provided.Call or WhatsApp 1-868-683-1528.
Cashier,supermarket helper at Nirva Superstore.Send application at 49 Sheriff & Craig st tel:227-5771. Male & Female workers to work at Magic Touch Car Wash & details centre. Call: 669-4676/669-8960. One cleaner at Hibiscus restaurant & bar,91 Middle St NorthCummingsburg Georgetown. Tel:231-5857. Pitmen,Serviceman,Hauler Operator and Welder for interior location.Applicants must be experienced. Call:2312250. One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing. Keyfood Trading,Mc Doom village. One clerk for TSI Eccles office English & Maths, grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to techserigy @ yahoo.com 1 Porter.Apply at LENS,136 Sheriff Street, C/Ville.Tel: 2271511/227-2486 Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area. Call:615-9132 Male cleaner.Call:642-9823.
LEGAL NOTICE BURROWES SAMUELS as morefully described in transport numbered 995/ 1986 to and in favour of the Applicant, ESME WILLIAMS unless cause be shown by any person/s claiming an interest in the property.Such person/s shall appear before the Court on the 29th April, 2022 at 9:00 am.THIS COURT FURTHER ORDERS that this Order be advertised in 2 consecutive saturday of a Newspaper of general circulation and any person claiming an interest be at liberty to enter an appearance within 14 days after the 2nd advertisement. THIS COURT FURTHER ORDERS that this matter stands adjourned to the 29th April,2022 at 9:00 am.This court further orders that this matter stands adjourned to the 29th April, 2022 at 9:00 am.IF YOU FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE TERMS OF THIS ORDER, YOU WILL BE IN CONTEMPT OF COURT AND MAY BE LIABLE IMPRISONMENT OR TO HAVE YOUR ASSETS CONFISCATED.
2022-HC-ÐEM-CIV-FD-144 IN THE HIGH COURT OE THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATUREFAMILY, DIVORCE AND MAT RIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION PETITION NO. FD-144 BETWEEN:-(KORIE) LOWANDA OMICKA nee KING Petitioner/Applicant -and-(KORIE) CHIBUIKEM COLLINSRespondent TO: CHIBUIKEM COLLINS KORIEFormerly of:Lot 329 Section A,South Sophia, Greater Georgetown, Guyana.TAKE NOTICE that on the 3rd day of February, 2022 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by LOWANDA OMICKA KORIE nee KING, the. Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 9th day of March, 2022 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News Newspaper, a daily Newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the Worldwide Web (Online). AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that ifyou desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly
LEGAL NOTICE authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce. then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), an Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirtyfive) days from the date of the Second and final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Wednesday the 15th day of June, 2022 at 10:15 am before theHonourable Madam Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln at the High Court at Georgetown via Zoom Meeting ID: 817 2463 7445 and Password: Court12. IN DEFAULT of you filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, an Answer and/ or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00 am and 3:30 pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00 am to 2:30 pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed.Dated the 11th day of March, 2022.
Saturday March 26, 2022
TT sweats over Jagdeo’s ‘falling apart comment’ (TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) Foreign Affairs Minister Amery Browne has spoken with Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister about a recent video featuring Guyana’s Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, saying “T&T is falling apart.” Browne confirmed that yesterday. The video featured on You Tube and several regional personalities’ Twitter feed, showed Jagdeo speaking at a podium, reportedly much earlier in the week. In the video, Jagdeo, addressing an audience, spoke about wanting to invest some of Guyana’s oil and gas resources into building the infrastructure in that country so the non-oil and gas sector in the future can generate the jobs there. Jagdeo said, “Because if we don’t do that when the oil money goes, we’ll be poorer than many countries in the world.” He continued, “Look at what’s happening in Trinidad now...Trinidad is falling apart, and that’s putting
it mildly - falling apart! “No jobs, sustained periods of negative growth and can’t see the light of day for the near future.” Jagdeo’s comment stirred up concern among citizens that one Caricom state would make such bad remarks about a fellow Caricom country. Others felt Jagdeo should have found a better way to make his remark. Guyana Opposition MP, Sherod Avery Duncan, on Twitter, wondered what “TT-CARICOM brothers and sisters” would say on the issue. And, one person queried if Jagdeo and Miss T&T Jeanine Brandt, who was recently embroiled in controversy when she spoke of poverty in T&T, were living in the same house. Yesterday, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley didn’t respond to T&T Guardian queries on Jagdeo’s comments. But Foreign Affairs Minister Browne said he had made a phone call about the matter.
“I have shared my view on this matter with Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-Operation, who is well-positioned to advise his government on matters of regional history, integration and respect which our foreparents worked so hard to achieve across this region. At this point, I have no further public comment,” Energy Minister Stuart Young wasn’t available for comment yesterday but top energy sources were concerned about the remarks. One stated, “These utterances are very disappointing and ill-informed. To insult the people of Trinidad and Tobago in this manner is disturbing and doesn’t auger well for the spirit of Caricom.” Political analyst Dr Bishnu Ragoonath said, “It put a nail further into the divide between the T&T and Guyana governments, especially since this (Jagdeo) government took office.” (Contiuned on page 18)
Tucville serial rapist found guilty of.. From page 14 during the sexual intercourse, the condom broke, and she replaced it but informed Semple that he only had 15 minutes remaining and if he does not finish within that time she will leave. In response, Semple told the victim ‘ok’ and walked into the kitchen and returned with a knife while the woman was getting dressed. He then told her, inter alia, that she is “not going anywhere.” As such, the woman then told Semple to keep the money and she will leave in peace. However, he grabbed her hair, placed the knife to her neck, removed the condom and inserted his penis into her mouth. The victim recounted that Semple then ordered her to perform oral sex on him and she complied. Sometime after she stopped, and Semple slapped her. The woman then asked Semple for some water and as
he turned his back to get the said water, she scrambled her clothes and jumped through a glass window. However, Semple ran behind her and grabbed her by her hair. The woman recounted that she was naked when he held onto her and stabbed her. She then managed to hold onto the knife but Semple then armed himself with a plastic tube filled with cement and continued to beat her. A passerby then stopped and asked Semple what happened and he said “Nothing.” However the woman cried out for help, telling the person that she was a prostitute. Two of his neighbours also called out to him to stop and he told the victim no one is going to help her because they are afraid of him and that she is going to be his 24th victim. The woman then gathered strength and jumped the fence. Semple’s neighbours promptly went to her rescue.
New Demerara River Bridge Consultation... From page 14 financial proposals of US$260,852,464, US$260,852,464 and US$300,000,000. For this project, bidders were advised by the Ministry that they are required to bid on two options, a Design– Build-Finance option and a Design-Build-Operate, and Finance option. It is unclear as to which option the government has selected.
The proposed location for the New Demerara River Bridge will see the structure being laid between Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara and La Grange on the Western end of the Demerara River. The public consultation on the new bridge is scheduled for 14:00hrs (2pm) on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 in the conference Room of the Cara Lodge Hotel on Quamina Street, Georgetown.
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Kaieteur News
The police was subsequently alerted and arrived sometime after. The victim was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she was examined. When Semple was cautioned by the arresting officer he said, “Officer I did had sex with her I pay her for the service, and she refuse to do what I asked and I assaulted her in her face with a PVC pipe.” Semple is no stranger to the court and also has similar matters pending before the court.
Govt. finally buckles under pressure... From page 2 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. 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.” It went on to explain that EEPGL, had, as of year-end 2020, almost $US5.0Bn in assets, which is a primary form of financial assurance, which 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 to this, ExxonMobil noted that it was working with the EPA and its co-venturers to put in place a combined $US2 billion of affiliate company guarantees. Members of civil society have however protested the US$2 billion company guarantees, explaining that this sum would not be substantial enough, should an disastrous oil spill occur. For instance, outspoken Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram, who has been keeping a close watch on Guyana’s oil and gas sector, recently told Kaieteur News that he believes US$2 billion in insurance would be a meagre amount compared to the possible implications such an event can cause, not only for
Guyana, but to the country’s territorial neighbours. “We would certainly want to see some sort of a binding guarantee from the contractors including Esso, Hess and CNOOC that they would guarantee all the costs involved in the consequences of any oil spill so I am suggesting that there should be something over and above the insurance. It would be good of course for the insurance to be much, much higher, but in this case… what we want is something from the parent companies,” he shared. Since 2015, ExxonMobil Corporation, the parent company of EEPGL, has steered clear of being tied to full coverage insurance for its Stabroek Block projects, which are certain to deliver multi-billion dollar profits on an annual basis. Instead, its subsidiary, EEPGL will be officially on the hook if an oil spill occurs offshore. This is the state of affairs with its Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two and Payara Projects. In this regard, Kaieteur News has been leading the call and protests for government to secure full liability coverage. Protest action by the newspaper first commenced on June, 2, 2021. This newspaper has also been at the forefront of calls for a renegotiation of the lopsided oil contract. The Guyana-ExxonMobil Production Sharing Agree-
ment (PSA) is the only one out of 130 contracts worldwide, which has no ring-fencing provisions to prevent costs of unsuccessful wells being carried over to that of successful wells. There is also no sliding scale for royalty to increase as production improves. That is not all. Additionally, Guyana’s PSA is the only one out of 130 that allows insurance premiums to be fully recovered as well as interest on loans and financing costs that are incurred by the contractors. The need for Guyana to secure full liability coverage for a possible oil spill has been underscored by various 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 was still grappling with the clean-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.
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Saturday March 26, 2022
Kaieteur News
Guyana to attend FAOs 37th Regional Conference in Ecuador Guyana is set to attend the 37th session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Regional Conference of Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC) in Quito, Ecuador. Every biennium, the FAO brings together its 33 Member States in Latin America and the Caribbean to establish the regional priorities of the Organization for the next two years. From March 28 to April 1, 2022, all 33 countries are expected to attend the 37th Session. For those five days the members will deliberate, reach consensus, make recommendations, and take necessary actions that will lead to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agro-food systems. According to media reports, Latin America and the Caribbean are committed to confronting and overcoming the most complex humanitarian, economic and social crisis in recent decades, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, hunger is affect-
ing almost 60 million people, reaching its highest point in 20 years while 22 million people fell into poverty in 2020. While, food insecurity affects four of every 10 people totaling 267 million in the region, and climate change has become an inescapable reality. Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd will represent Guyana at LARC 37. Minister Mustapha has been aggressively working towards meeting the governments vision for the agriculture sector. At LARC 37, Minister Zulfikar will have the opportunity to share Guyanas vision while discussing technological, institutional and organizational innovations with other Heads of Governments to find joint solutions to the challenges of food, agriculture, and Climate Change. Participating countries will then establish the regional work priorities of FAO
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha. for the next two years and will review the results achieved. Last November Minister Todd presented Guyana as a candidate to host the 38th Session of FAOs Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean in 2024. The voting and announcement of the next host country will take place at the conference in Ecuador and Guyana is hopeful that with the support of several Latin American and Caribbean countries, it will be selected
to host LARC 38. Furthermore, remarking on the event, FAO Representative in Guyana Dr. Gillian Smith noted that over the fivedays, all 33-member countries will send high-level delegations to the 37th Session to deliberate, reach consensus, make recommendations, and take necessary actions. He said, already rising to the challenges to achieving better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, this
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd. is an excellent opportunity for Guyana to showcase its achievements to the Latin American and Caribbean Countries. Additionally, earlier this year, His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali disclosed that not only has the agriculture sector been a backbone of Guyanas growth in the past, but it will remain a critical long-term stimulant for multi-sectoral development. “We have been speaking at length about our plans in making Guyana not only an agricultural
hub, but a food production destination, and ensuring that our future economy is built on a strong foundation of food security, and more importantly, allowing our country to become a net exporter of food,” President Ali said. The President also stated that his government has set out to transform food production into an “Agribusiness”, making it more competitive, diversified and far less susceptible to the damaging effects of climate change.
Foreigners will not be...
Shenseea
From page 13 the creation of monopolies by foreign entities while catering for the provision of capacity building programmes so that Guyanese would be able to provide high quality services and skills. Provisions in the policy also cater for Guyanese to get equal payment or remuneration to that of expatriates once it was found that they both have similar qualifications and experience.
Apart from this, Guyana’s local content law also caters for Guyanese to have majority ownership in joint ventures with foreign companies. The VP in January this year had stated during an interview he had with state owned television, National Communications Network (NCN), that “with the passage of the Local Content Law, the country will now be able to recover losses from the lopsided Exxon deal.”
TT sweats over Jagdeo’s... From page 17 However, Ragoonath said it was correct that T&T hadn’t had positive growth in the last few years and Bharat was making the strong point that Guyana must build their non-oil and gas sector to sustain themselves beyond that sector. Ragoonath noted T&T is even now “putting eggs in the same oil and gas basket based on what we saw in the last Budgets.” Ragoonath added, “But it may not be in CARICOM’s best interests to have said it like that and I’m not sure it will help ties between the two countries. I am assuming he was speaking to a Guyanese audience emphasising the need for Guyana to diversify early rather than find themselves in a situation like T&T.
It follows a lot of what Guyana has been saying recently, including about having food security. “ But, I don’t think we have that critical unemployment problem at this point in time. We did lose some jobs in the pandemic but unemployment is not as high as it’s made out to be.” However, Ragoonath indicated that while T&T might be critical of Jagdeo’s comments, PM, Dr Keith Rowley hasn’t “exactly been building bridges,” with Guyana either. He noted Rowley’s outburst in Parliament on Wednesday, when the PM berated UNC MP Rodney Charles on always speaking about Guyana. Rowley advised Charles he was free to go there if he wished.
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 26, 2022
Three to stand trial in Berbice High Court for murder of Canadian citizen Magistrate Alex Moore on Thursday committed three suspects in the murder of a Canadian citizen to stand trial in the Berbice High Court. The Preliminary Inquiry (PI) of the case was completed at the Springlands Magistrates Court. The defendants in the matter are Moonasar Beharry, 56, a rice farmer of lot 125 Section ‘A’ Number 70 Village, Aszim Shivgobin aka ‘Blackie’ and Charran Sewdhan aka ‘Vickey’ , 26, of Number 79 Village, East Berbice Corentyne. They were charged with the capitol offense of murder committed on Nicholas Ramkissoon Jaipaul, a Canadian citizen which took place between August 16 and 20, 2020. Moore ruled yesterday that there was sufficient evidence for the defendants to stand trial. The case was prosecuted by Police Inspector, Orin Joseph. According to reports, the burnt remains of Nicholas Ramkissoon Jaipaul was discovered on land covered by vegetation along the Moleson Creek stretch of road just two days after he went missing from his grandfather ’s home at Number 70 Village. His then 86-year-old grandfather had said they retired to bed on the night of the August 16 but the
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Agri. Ministry signs over $2B in contracts
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha with some of the contractors and Heads of Agencies at the contract signing exercise yesterday
S
Murdered Canadian Citizen, Nicholas Jaipaul. next morning when he awoke, his grandson was nowhere to be found. After several hours passed, the grandfather filed a missing persons report at the Springlands Police Station and the next day, he received a call on his landline phone from a male who informed him that Jaipaul was with him. Police had managed to trace the call to a location in Georgetown where one of the accused (Sewdhan) was arrested. Under intense interrogation, he reportedly confessed that Jaipaul was killed with the help of Shivgobin. He claimed too that the plan to murder the Canadian citizen was concocted by Beharry, the rice farmer.
everal agencies attached to the Ministry of Agriculture signed 32 contracts yesterday totaling some $2,121,486,609 for the construction and rehabilitation of several pump stations and drainage structures, the procurement of critical machinery, and the maintenance of several canals across the country. Of the 32 contracts signed, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) signed a $544,890,203 contract with Adamantium Holdings for the construction of a pump station at Charity, Region Two (Pomeroon Supenaam). This structure is expected to provide flood control for approximately 400 families and farmers by draining more than 200 acres of farmland for the cultivation of cash crops. NDIA also signed a $261,080,869 contract with the same contractor for the rehabilitation of a pump
station at Cozier on the Essequibo Coast. Presently, there is only one pump in operation at the pump station. This project, therefore, caters to the rehabilitation of the existing structure and installation of an additional pump that suffered damages some years ago. Upon completion, some 500 acres of cash crop and in excess of 2,500 acres of rice farms and residents in the area will benefit from improved drainage. Wo r k s o n t h e construction of the farm-tomarket road on the right bank of the Mahaicony Creek is also expected to commence this year with the signing of a $307,155,890 contract with Well Built Construction Services. This will see the construction of 4.5 km of road which will provide improved access to over 15,000 acres of farmland to rice farmers and residents in Esau, Jacoba, and Mora Point. Upon completion of this project, farmers
traversing this road will benefit from a reduction in transport cost, thus lowering their cost of production. While speaking at the exercise, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said there is a direct link between the completion of these projects and the livelihoods of not only farmers but residents in these communities. Mustapha said, “Last year we were able to achieve over 94% of our work programme and that shows that we have been pushing this work programme. In the Ministry of Agriculture, we also have very critical programmes that people depend on. So when our agencies execute a programme, there are a number of people that will benefit and depend on these programmes for their livelihood. For example, the drainage and irrigation system in the country, we know for a fact that not only farmers depend on it, but
residents too.” “…So you can see the linkage that we have in terms of the importance of the sector…I want to ask you here this afternoon, that like last year, let us continue to execute our work and on a timely basis. Let us continue to ensure that the work is being executed in a way that we satisfy this specification.” Contracts were also signed for the construction of drainage structures in Vr i e s l a n d , We s t B a n k Demerara (Region Three), the rehabilitation of secondary channels in Number 50 village - 52 Acre Dairy Plots in the Region, the supply and delivery of agroprocessing equipment for the New Guyana Marketing Corporation’s (New GMC) Parika packaging facility and the supply and delivery of laboratory equipment and six new ATV for the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
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Saturday March 26, 2022
Saturday March 26, 2022
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Kaieteur News
Ramdihal Chartered Accountants Blue Water keeps Golden... Softball Competition at Bath Settlement tomorrow The Bath Settlement Sports Club will be hosting its inaugural Chateram Ramdihal Chartered Accountants, Professional Services Firm Softball Cricket Competition tomorrow at the Bath Settlement Community Centre Ground. Mr. Ramdial, who hails from Bath Settlement, said that he is pleased to sponsor the one day limited overs softball cricket competition on behalf of his accounting firm. He further went on to say that as a son of Bath he sees
it fitting to be part of the competition because it will be bringing the youths in and around the Bath Settlement area to be positively involved in sports which will keep them meaningfully occupied. Mr. Ramdial, is no stranger to sports and the business community. He is also a member of the National Sports Commission. Several softball teams in and around the Bath Settlement area will be taking part in this limited overs competition.
There will be trophies for the winner, runner up, best bowler and batsman in an innings and man of the match in final. The management of Bath Settlement Sports Club has expressed gratitude to Mr. Ramdial for coming on board. The competition gets on the way from 09:00hrs and all COVID protocols will be in place. Meanwhile, the club will have added attractions including cycle and 100m races. Admission is free.
Saturday March 26, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) The planetary energy makes this a good day for contemplation rather than action, Aries. If you feel the urge to buy, don't. Sleep on decisions. If you feel the same tomorrow, go for it.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You have a warm and sensitive nature, Libra, and today you could be feeling especially tuned in to the feelings of others. Romance is very much on your mind, as are all things sensual.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Passion and romance are in the air, Taurus, so make the most of the great atmosphere! Everyone seems to be in a festive mood.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) This may be a tricky day, Scorpio, as you feel the pull of conflicting demands and desires.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You may receive some upsetting news from a family member today, Gemini. It could have you reeling for a moment, but when you take the time to think about it some more you'll realize that things aren't as troubling as they first seemed. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You must weigh your physical limitations with your desire to get everything done, Cancer. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you could realize that a friend is actually your soul mate, Leo. You've been spending a lot of time together attending social events. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may feel at odds with the rest of the world now, Virgo, as you yearn for some quiet time alone.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) It doesn't seem fair that your workload has increased these last few days. Never mind that you still have all of your normal tasks to do, your boss expects you to finalize a new budget. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You've been extremely busy these past few months, working extra hours at the office, then going out with friends late at night. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Expect today's planetary energies to raise your social consciousness, Aquarius. You may be distracted with thoughts of the homeless person you saw today. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A temporary separation from someone close to you could have you reflecting on the good times you've spent together, especially over the past few weeks.
From page 23 of Guyana’s first national U15 league for girls. “It’s been an absolute pleasure,” said Blue Water Shipping Country Manager Richard DeNobrega. “We, at Blue Water, want this to be a long-term partnership and relationship with the football federation. We really are happy to be on board – they’ve done a fantastic job and we want to support it and see that it continues, and see that these players benefit.” GFF President Wayne Forde explained the support of long-term corporate partners was vital to ensure the success of football programmes in Guyana, including the GFF’s ambition to reach the FIFA World Cup this decade. “We are so happy to have Blue Water, yet again, on board with us to support the Golden Jaguars,” Forde said. “The national team requires a lot of support from corporate Guyana, and to have Blue Water Guyana supporting the U15 girls and Golden Jaguars is something that we are all very happy with. The GFF thanks the management and staff of Blue Water, here in Guyana, and the folks in the
Almost 100... From page 24
29 Lombard Street Georgetown; Motor Trend Service Centre, Area L Foulis Public Road E.C.D; West Coast Customs Wash Bay, Vreed-en-Hoop, W.C.D; Massive Audio, Parika E.B.E; Homeline Furnishing, 592 New Amsterdam, Berbice; Sukhpaul’s Business Enterprise & Auto Sales, Lot 7-8 Strand New Amsterdam, Berbice and Sukhpaul’s Service Station, Corriverton, Berbice.
head office in Denmark.” As part of the Golden Jaguars partnership, Blue Water Shipping’s corporate logo will be displayed prominently on the squad’s training and travel attire. Golden Jaguars Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz, who has named a 23-man squad for the tournament, said Blue Water had set a shining example to the corporate community in its support for football. “Blue Water Shipping
coming on board as a corporate partner at the beginning is saying something very profound,” Shabazz said. “The importance of people coming on board at the start is that they need to be pioneers. It’s a good example as a corporate partner, and we really appreciate it. It gives a great boost to the team to know we are going to Trinidad, and these are games that will help to expose and improve our players.”
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Saturday March 26, 2022
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Annual Mayor’s Cup 9-a-side Inter Ward/Village KO Football starts tomorrow at Buxton All is set for the start of the Annual Mayor’s Cup 9-aside Inter Ward/Village Knockout Football tournament tom o r r o w a t t h e Buxton Ground on the East Coast of Demerara from 6:30pm. The event returns after a two year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic and is organised by former national footballer and Coach Lennox Arthur over the years and is in recognition of the Mayor of Georgetown, then Hamilton Green, who was also a former Prime Minister of Guyana. The current Mayor of Georgetown in Mayor Ubraj Narine. Teams are battling for attractive prize money and the respective trophies with a first prize of
$600,000, second prize $300,000, third $200,000 and fourth $100,000 on offer. Mid Atlantic Oil and Gas Company has sponsored the winning purse of $600,000. Tomorrow’s opening salvo of games, eight to be exact, will see Mahaica facing 50 United followed by Golden Grove against Church, Victoria play Paradise, Melanie versus Subryanville, BV challenge Buxton Youth Developers, Friendship oppose Haslington and Brush Dam tackle Annandale. Diamond have drawn the bye. Among some of the known talent expected to be on show are William Europe of Diamond, Jamal Harvey of Westside Spartans, Dwain Jacobs of Golden
Jamal Harvey Grove and Gregory Richardson of Sparta Boss among others. A number of other business entities are on board to aid the successful staging of the event and among them
are: IPA, DDL, Digicel, Johil, John Fernandes, General Equipment, Busta, GTT, Namilco, Macorp, New Thriving, Sat t a r G a f o o r, B . Megan, Pritipaul Singh, Ready Mix, Eddie Bobcat, Silvie’s, Caribbean Containers, E Networks, Super Bet, Cummings Electrical, China Trading, Dave Lumber yard and Schlumberger. Arthur thanked the sponsors and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) for their approval of the event and encouraged fans to come out and support. However, he cautioned that they must be mindful of covid19 and take necessary precautions as they enjoy the action. The rules governing this tournament includes the no offside rule and teams
Dwain Jacobs
Gregory Richardson
are allowed five substitutions. The games are of two 20minute halves for a 40-minute duration. Th e t o u r n a m e n t i s a straight knockout one with no extra time being played. A tie at the end of regulation would result in the teams dueling in the
dreaded sudden death penalty shootout. All other FIFA rules apply and the Referee is the sole authority of these games. Teams showing up late beyond a reasonable time determined by the organisers will be disqualified and their game forfeited via the walkover route.
Saturday March 26, 2022
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592 Beer Skills for Cash Blue Water keeps football tournament Golden Jaguars aloft for Caribbean Classic launched, action starts today
Blue Water Shipping Country Manager Richard DeNobrega (2nd L) presents an undisclosed sum for the Golden Jaguars to GFF President Wayne Forde in the presence of members Blue Water Shipping has provided generous sponsorship to support Guyana’s participation in the Courts Caribbean Classic in Trinidad and Tobago, building on its existing strong partnership with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) to accelerate the development of football at all levels. The Senior Men’s National Team departed for Trinidad and Tobago on Friday, to compete against Bar-
bados tomorrow, Sunday, March 27, and the hosts on Tuesday, March 29, in the three-team friendly tournament as part of preparations for Concacaf Nations League B fixtures in June. “Football is a big part of Blue Water,” said Thomas Bek, Chief Operating Officer for energy, ports and projects at the Danish-based transportation and logistics firm. “We are proud to have this opportunity to support the Guyana
Football Federation on different levels, and we are really looking forward to the partnership for the years to come as well. It’s been a very positive experience so far.” Blue Water, which has a local office in Georgetown, has a long track record of supporting sport, and has partnered with the GFF for a growing range of projects involving the Golden Jaguars and the forthcoming establishment (Continued on page 21)
Guyana Breweries Inc, through their 592 Beer brand, will be the title sponsor o f t h i s y e a r ’s ‘Skills for Cash’ 7-Aside F o o t b a l l To u r n a m e n t , which gets on the way today at the #5 Ground, West Coast, Berbice. Cougars, Rosignol United, Monedderlust United, Hope Town, #30 Vi l l a g e , # 4 2 Vi l l a g e , Paradise United, Airy Hall, Mahaica D e t e r m i n a t o r s , A n n ’s Grove United, Victoria K i n g s United, Golden Stars, Paradise and Melanie FC will compete for the tournament’s first-place prize of $300,000. The second-place team will pocket $200,000, third
place $200,000 and fourth place $50,000. Organised by Cool Crew Promotion and Virgil Watts Cons t r u c t i o n , the tournament is in its third edition, having missed the last two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Melinda Telesford, Guyana Breweries Inc’s Marketing Manager said the company is aware that, “Football is a well-loved sport in the participating communities, and it is our goal to keep the football spirit alive through partnerships like these. I’d like to congratulate the promoters of this event for organizing in such a big way to deliver a thrilling experience to the players
and fans of football.” Lynton Luke, head of Cool Crew Promotion, thanked the importers and distributors of 592 Beer for the collaboration, adding, “This year our com petition will match skills from E a s t C o a s t Demerara and West and East Berbice.” He explained that, “Teams are allowed three guess players to help strengthen the side. We also have games playing in different venues on the West Coast and East Coast of Berbice.” Matches will be played at the #5 Village ground, Rosignol ground and Victoria Community Centre Ground.
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Saturday March 26, 2022
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GMRSC Quarter Mile Return Joshua da Silva nudges hosts into ascendency on day two Almost 100 cars registered BBC Sport - West Indies edged into the ascendency in the third Test against England by opening a slim firstinnings lead in Grenada. Lower-order resistance saw West Indies end on 2328, 28 runs ahead, despite being 128-7 at one stage. Similar to day one when a last-wicket stand of 90 rescued England, wicketkeeper Joshua da Silva frustrated the bowlers late in the day with 54 not out, putting on 49 for the eighth wicket with Alzarri Joseph (28) and 55 unbeaten with number 10 Kemar Roach (25). England made a disappointing start with the new ball but took 6-45 in an impressive recovery either side of lunch. After West Indies reached 50-0, Ben Stokes had Kraigg Brathwaite lbw with a ball that shot low while Chris Woakes took 3-48 - his best figures in an overseas Test since December 2017. That put the tourists on course for a lead of their own but as batting became easier
for tomorrow’s meet
Chris Woakes struck twice in one over • Mar 24, 2022 © Getty Images
in the final session, wickettaking again looked difficult. However, on a pitch showing signs of uneven bounce against thr harder ball, both sides will still believe they can win what is likely to be a lowscoring game. A victory for either team
Surinamese touchdown
would see them take the series with the score currently 0-0 after two drawn Tests. Scores: West Indies 232 for 8 (Campbell 35, Mayers 28, Joseph 28, da Silva 54*, Roach 25*) lead England 204 (Mahmood 49, Leach 41*, Seales 3-40) by 28 runs.
As the clock counts down to what is building to be the biggest drag race event of the season, eighty nine competitors have so far signed up. The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s Return to Quarter mile is likely to exceeded the hundred participant barrier according to President Rameez Mohamed. “Up to this evening when I checked, we had just over eighty competitors registered, that includes both cars and bikes and as we speak, others are coming to get registered,” Mohamed said. “We expect that by race-day Sunday, that number will likely increase.” Mohamed contended that as it stands, eighty-nine was the last count inclusive of bikes but that number excludes the Suriname contingent which is likely to feature at least ten cars. Up to press time, some of the competitors had made it across to the Molsen Creek port with more expected to-
Some of the Surinamese competitors awaiting crossing to Guyana. day. “Suriname is here and they will be ready to do battle come Sunday and the competition will be stiff. They have said to us that they brought their cars to dominate South Dakota,” Mohamed said. “We also still have tickets on sale at our locations
so persons who haven’t had a chance to get them can still do so before Sunday.” Tickets cost $2,000 for adults; $500 for kids, and are on sale at the club’s Albert Street & Thomas Lands venue, Mohamed’s Enterprise, (Continued on page 21)
Saturday March 26, 2022
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