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Monday March 28, 2022
Nigerians waited 30 years for oil spill compensation Oil spill disasters are costly and the effects they have on the marine ecosystem are quite worrying. It is in this vain that a proper oil insurance policy is needed for oil producing nations. Having a proper oil insurance policy, would help safeguard a country in the event of an oil disaster. While in contrast not having a proper insurance policy could leave a country with polluted waters and shores, exposed to lawsuits and immense expense for the cleaning and the remediation of the environment. In Nigeria’s case, it was proven that not having a proper insurance policy from oil companies operating in that country was ill-considered. In fact, it took 30 years after a legal proceeding commenced against an oil company for citizens to receive compensation following a spill in that country. The lawsuit was filed by Nigerian farmers and communities affected by spilled hydrocarbons. The communities and farmers had long fought legal battles over oil spills and environmental damage before they received compensation. It should be noted that not only were the affected Nigerians had to wait 30 years after the legal proceedings commenced to be compensated but the compensation came 11 years after a federal court had ordered the company to pay same.
The effect of the oil spill in Nigeria.
In August 2021, 30 years after Nigerian farmers and affected communities commenced a legal case against Royal Dutch Shell (RDS) – the company finally agreed to pay them $45.7 billion Naira (US $110.9 million) in compensation to put an end to the 1991 legal battle. While speaking on the company’s decision to finally pay up, community lawyer for the Ejama-Ebubu people, Lucius Nwosu, disclosed, “They ran out of tricks and decided to come to terms.” According to him, that decision is a vindication of the resoluteness of the community for justice.
It was reported in the media that Shell had approached a court in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, on Wednesday August 11, 2021, to disclose the development. Also, the company had agreed to pay the sum within 21 days. A spokesman for Shell Nigeria had said by e-mail, that the payment is for full and final satisfaction of a court judgement issued against the company in 2010. According to energy news website Energyvoice, the origin of the community’s grievance against Shell dates back to a rupture in one of the firm’s pipelines in 1970. Shell had maintained that the environmental damage was caused by “third parties” during a civil war
that was raging at the time. While the joint venture that Shell operates “does not accept responsibility or liability for these spills, the affected sites in the Ebubu community were fully remediated,” the company said. In 2010, a federal court ordered Shell to pay 17 billion Naira to the community. The oil major unsuccessfully challenged the decision on multiple occasions, including at the Supreme Court in November, 2020. In March 2020, a judge in a related court case said that, with interest accrued, Shell’s debt stood at nearly 183 billion Naira by January 2019 – a valuation, the
company vehemently contested. After a 13-year legal battle, a Dutch court in January 2021, ordered Shell to compensate Nigerian farmers for spills that polluted much of their land in the Niger Delta. The court ordered Shell to compensate three out of four farmers who lodged the case in 2008. The case has dragged on so long that two of the Nigerian farmers have died since it was first filed. In February 2021, Shell had initiated arbitration proceedings against the Nigerian government at the World Bank’s International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes following its unsuccessful attempts to overturn the 2010 ruling. Kaieteur News reported last week that 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 last Thursday evening, during an interview with the Department of Public Information. Since the startup of its oil operations in December 2019, ExxonMobil has evaded demands Continued on page 6
Kaieteur News
Monday March 28, 2022
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Guyana yet to implement over 100 safeguards to prevent corruption, revenue leakage in oil sector Approximately six years ago, agencies such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the World Bank, provided Guyana with advice on over 100 safeguards it must have in place to insulate the oil sector from damning acts of corruption. To d a y, m a n y o f t h o s e safeguards are yet to be implemented. The IMF for example has been one of Guyana’s key partners in developing the technical capacity that is needed to properly govern the oil and gas sector. In addition, the financial institution has been at the forefront of highlighting many loopholes in Guyana’s oil deals as well as its legislative and regulatory framework, which can aid in mitigating significant value loss. In this regard, it has produced several reports between 2015 and now which offer critical recommendations that should be adopted. In spite of the prudent advice it has offered in these documents, there has been no significant progress by Guyana’s political leadership on this front. For example, on numerous occasions, the IMF has appealed to Guyana to
strengthen its petroleum fiscal regime through the revision of the Petroleum [Exploration and Production] Act 1986 (PEPA), the Petroleum [Exploration and Production] Regulations 1986, as well as other tax laws and sector regulations. The IMF has been keen to note that while the PEPA gives the government broad powers to grant petroleum prospecting and production licences, and to negotiate oil contracts, it is silent on processing and refining of petroleum products, pipelines and other modes of petroleum transportation, as well as how petroleum marketing arrangements are to be observed. In spite of this loophole, the government has been pushing ahead with the marketing of its oil and plans to bring gas to shore. Additionally, with regard to the lopsided oil deal signed with ExxonMobil for the Stabroek Block, the IMF has expressed alarm about the opportunities Guyana gives ExxonMobil and its partners to be abusive in the way they add interests to its expenses, all of which would be recovered in full. Left unchecked, the IMF said that this can have a detrimental effect on the oil profits left to share. In one of its reports, the IMF said it
Trinidadian Energy Strategist, Anthony Paul is a well-established industry norm to have limitations on how much interest can be charged and deducted on loans by oil companies. Furthermore, it has noted that some countries disallow interest expenses or limit the amount of debt permitted for cost recovery purposes through caps. Other countries, it advised, go the route of prescribing that interest may be deductible only on borrowing to fund development costs or a maximum percentage of such costs. Interest on loans to finance exploration is not allowed. Considering the dire consequences this loophole in the contract can
have for Guyana, the IMF said it would be appropriate for Guyana to limit the amount of debt for cost recovery purposes or disallow interest expense altogether. Further to this, the IMF has called on Guyana to close other fiscal loopholes in existing Production Sharing Agreements; undertake a policy review of fiscal terms contained in existing PSAs to ensure that these are implemented appropriately, and assess areas of improvement for future investment; design a new generally applicable fiscal regime for upstream petroleum projects that increases the government’s take and limits the scope for individual negotiations; introduce a revised production sharing mechanism for new PSAs that provide the government with a higher share of profit oil as the profitability of projects’ increases; and publish a model PSA that includes the minimum fiscal terms accepted by the government for future contracts. The IMF has also called on Guyana to apply tighter ringfencing arrangements to contracts so that oil companies would be unable to deduct the costs associated with exploring other wells or developing other projects from another field that is
producing oil. The foregoing represents a mere fraction of the IMF’s recommendations which the nation’s leaders have failed to implement, yet continue to tell the nation that every possible measure is being put in place to protect the oil sector. UNDP RECOMMENDATIONS In response to a request in 2016 to help Guyana arrive at good legal, regulatory, contractual and fiscal measures needed to keep corruption at bay, the United Nations Development Programme had commissioned an analysis to be done on the state of the nation’s governance systems. The subsequent report on the review was titled “Rapid Analysis of the State of Readiness of Guyana’s Hydrocarbon Regulatory Framework.” It was produced by Trinidadian energy strategist, Anthony Paul. But, after six years of being in possession of this document, which proposes close to 100 critical recommendations on how Guyana must safeguard itself, nothing had been done. That document, which was reported on for years by Kaieteur News, was keen to note that the requirements and expectations of Continued on page 6
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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
Our Wealth, Our Country The messages regarding Guyana’s oil wealth are registering and sinking in with more strength in Guyanese hearts. The concerns over weak leadership and management and many fears of how this oil benefits all Guyanese are deepening and spreading. The latest evidence is in the public arrival of a group calling itself ‘Our Wealth, Our Country’ (OWOC). In the presence of this newest local voice, the cries of Guyanese are sounded, and they are being heard. The people behind the formation of OWOC see themselves as worried Guyanese patriots. They don’t like where we are with our massive oil wealth. How it has been handled from the inception, how leaders have not learned anything, how leaders refuse to make the necessary moves to get more out of it for all citizens of this country, and share it across the board. So, these concerned Guyanese put their heads together, and joined hands in a show of disagreement and objection to where matters currently are with this patrimony of ours. They are fellow citizens with working class heritage for the most part. Loyal people who know what is required to toil tirelessly and honestly to climb the ladder of success. At this time, they are few in numbers, but as we all know, out of such beginnings great things can grow. Already, since their launch, several hundred Guyanese have stepped forward in solidarity with the visions of OWOC. They are for a better life for our poor who grapple to make ends meet in life’s daily struggles. These also extend to Guyana’s middle class, which finds itself more squeezed, and in the uncomfortable position of fearing its members could be condemned to the fate of citizens struggling at the bottom of the economic ladder. What OWOC looks for is a better deal from this enormous oil wealth. It plans to challenge and confront national leaders, who promised much during the 2020 elections, but it is those same leaders now standing up in fierce resistance against any Guyanese who call upon them to learn from the huge mistakes of the past, and make amends. That is, move with vigor and determination to get to the table of renegotiation with Exxon, and go through the issues that are of utmost importance to each and every Guyanese. Each and every Guyanese is not limited to the few hundred favoured ones inside government and around its leaders, who reap and runaway with the major benefits flowing from the nation’s wealth. Each and every Guyanese means just that. Tt’s where all citizens, regardless of who they voted for, now raise their voices and rise in protest against the most, horrendous oil deal ever. Guyanese are weary and wrathful of being taken advantage of by political leaders who mislead them where the bigger things are concerned and misrepresent them before foreigners, when our many natural resources wealth blessings have been involved. As OWOC pointed out, it has been the same anemic and tragic story with just about all aspects of our rich resources. Guyana, as a country, has lived through one terrible deal after another with its gold, its bauxite, and its timber, among other areas of national wealth. We, as a people and society have largely known only poverty and struggle, despite having all these riches in abundance. Now that the oil is here, and is in proven billions of barrels, this cannot continue. This has to stop right now. Government leaders and Opposition leaders are given the kind of notice that they are sure to find troubling. The people who voted for them want to see a difference, experience improvement, actually taste the fruits of our land. All leaders are given warning; pay attention, take heed, act and act now. Do something that is significant with this oil. It begins with renegotiation, and if that message has to be blare across the length and breadth of this gifted land, then it shall be. This is what will be, for Guyanese are faced with a choice. Stand up for what is theirs and get what is due or, live like dogs fighting for scraps. OWOC mean that more are hearing and readying themselves to right national wrongs. Renegotiate for a better deal.
The Right to Pollute according to the EPA? Dear Editor, Recent letters by Ryhaan Shah, Yog Mahadeo and Malcolm Harripaul have raised the issue of noise pollution and the role of the EPA in Guyana. My recent experience with a wash-bay that has been operating on 5th Avenue, Diamond, confirms my view that the horrendous noisiness in Guyana (which has now increased with the many large diesel-engined trucks that race along our narrow roads, blaring their horns for us to get out of the [***] way), has to do precisely with the EPA’s understanding of its role and functions. The EPA has clearly concluded, it would seem that
it is the (noise) polluter who has the right to pollute. There is a famous eponymous theorem - the Coase Theorem - that says that polluters and those who are affected by pollution could bargain their way to a socially acceptable amount of say noise, as long as there are clearly specified rights assigned either to the polluter or the affected parties. If the polluter is assigned the right to pollute, then the parties that are negatively affected must pay the polluter not to pollute. The bargaining process is thus a private solution that determines the amount that would be paid, and the amount of pollution that
would be allowed. In the context of private solutions, there is absolutely no need for a regulatory agency such as the EPA. In Guyana’s case, if the EPA has effectively assigned to the polluter the right to pollute, there is no need for its intervention to regulate noise pollution, as it is also signalling that a private solution is all that would be required. But having effectively assigned to the polluter the right to pollute, and also inserting itself into any attempt to regulate noise, gas flaring, and other forms of pollution, the EPA can assume only one role - that of the policeman protecting the
rights of the polluter. By acting to enforce the rights it has, from all appearances, effectively assigned to the polluter in the Coasain world it has created, the EPA must correspondingly act to ensure that those affected by the pollution (noise, litter, etc.) bear their fair share of the burden of the private solution that it is policing. And we do pay, when we are abused by noisy neighbours and establishments, when we cannot talk to each other without shouting, when life for us ordinary citizens is unbearable because polluters have the right to pollute. Yours sincerely, Thomas B. Singh
Guyana is the cover story of April’s National Geographic Magazine: “Exploring Islands in the Sky” Dear Editor, The front cover of April’s edition of “National Geographic” magazine is a beautiful view from the edge of a mountain, overlooking flocculent clouds floating above a verdant valley with a thin waterfall in the distance. The cover legend is “Exploring Islands in the Sky” followed by the teaser, “A Tepui in South America may hold clues to the Mysteries of evolution”. I was hooked but imagine my surprise when I looked at
the contents-page and read: “Up the Mountain, to a World Apart” followed by “Why venture into a remote part of Guyana with no roads and no guarantee of getting out? To identify new species, to uncover clues about evolution - and to climb a sheer sided, flat-topped mountain known locally as a Tepui. By Mark Synnott. Photographs by Renan Ozturk.” Editor, I could barely contain my interest and went directly to page 36. The story and accompanying
photographs flowed through, to end on page 71, a full 36 pages of fascinating facts and interpretations about a place I have never seen in my own native land. The first words on page 36 were: “Mount Roraima rises from the rainforest .........” Most of the rest of the article centers around Mount Weiassipu which I gather is close to Mount Roraima but lower and more accessible. I had never heard of Mount Weiassipu before. The consolatory fact is that all of it is within Guyana’s boundaries versus Mount
Roraima. The last sentence of the article reads: “The real treasures of El Dorado aren’t gold or diamonds they’re the plants and animals that call this magical place home.” Editor, I think that this article might be available on line for readers in Guyana. But nothing can be as heartwarming as the book. As soon as it becomes available in retail outlets, I will send copies to libraries and friends back home! Yours faithfully, Tulsi Dyal Singh, MD. Midland, Texas, USA.
Freddie got it wrong Dear Editor, In his daily Kaieteur News column of Feb 16, 2022, under the caption Part IV, Entitlement and Betrayal, Freddie Kissoon surely displayed some amount of recklessness, in the quotation below. The NDC of Beterverwagting (BV) sold John Fernandes Ltd, 134 acres of land for 35 million Guyana dollars. That is about $240, 000 per acre. There isn’t any parcel or plot of land in Guyana where an acre of land is less than five million dollars. The NDC of BV is allAfrican and elected under the PNC ticket in the 2018 local government elections. It is closely associated with ACDA and is part of the annual emancipation festival. BV is 99 percent an African village. The land was not sold to an African family but a Portuguese one. After the price tag was made public, the NDC cancelled the sale agreement. There hasn’t been one word about this
transaction from those who advocate African entitlement. More importantly, no African-rights activist has put forward the suggestion that if the NDC could have contemplated selling the land for $240, 000 per acre then now that the deal is cancelled why not sell it to BV residents and African Guyanese elsewhere. I am absolutely sure if the NDC round off the price at $300,000 per acre, literally thousands of AfricanGuyanese would rush to buy. First off, the name of the NDC is BV/Triumph and it is not all African as Freddie (the Lecturer/Teacher) wishes his readers to learn. He also confuses the fact that in matters of Land, there is no SALE until the final documents are handed over. This includes a TRANSPORT. FJL entered into an Agreement of sale, with the BV/Triumph NDC (not BV NDC) they bought nothing, Freddie. Yes, Africans may make up 99% of BVs population but
Freddie is silent on the 40 or so percent of Indians in the community of BV/Triumph. Freddie went on to say that the NDC is closely associated with ACDA, because it participates in the Annual Emancipation Festival. I would categorically say that that inference of Mr. Kissoon is simply a scene from one of his dreams. I am from Triumph and also a member of ACDA, and would say without fare of contradiction that none of those on the council at the time that Agreement of Sale was made has any association with ACDA. Further, as far back as I can remember Emancipation was celebrated in my family and community, long before the existence of ACDA. Also, for Mr. or is it Dr. Kissoon to write in February about this event and not do any research as to why JFL walked away from the deal is really pathetic, since he is a Social Scientist. Had he questioned anyone from BV/ Triumph who is
knowledgeable about our backlands he would have been told the lands are privately owned and not Councils property. Hence in his reliance on hearsay or maybe an attempt at being malicious he advanced the hypothesis that ...no African Rights Activist ...and African Guyanese elsewhere. That that was not possible for we all knew it, would have been an exercise in futility. Freddie’s failure to hear what people concerned said about the entitlement of the Villagers of BV/Triumph is surely saying that he was/is not on phase with events in BV/Triumph. May I remind him that it was because of those voices JFL walked away. In closing I do hope that Freddie would MAN UP and express an apology, since he was wrong. Also please note (Freddie) I would not be engaged in a to and fro in an attempt to demonstrate your relevance. Regards, Elton McRae
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NRF Board – The Vice President’s defence Dear Editor, It is strange the lengths to which powerful men would go to rationalise the irrational, to stand up for what makes for little sense, since it is soself-serving. This was the case recently when the Hon Vice President went public to share, he and (possibly) his government’s position on Opposition nominees for serving on Guyana’s Natural Resources Fund (NRF) board. For what the VP did confirmed the fears of a good number of Guyanese in the article captioned “Jagdeo gives reasons for blocking opposition nominees to NRF Board, refusal to compromise on spending” (Demerara Waves, March 25). I think what was articulated speaks for itself, as to the direction(s) envisioned by the PPP Government. Since all Guyana know that this Government is really no more and no less than the Vice President, and what he insists upon, this is the sum of what matters related to NRF Board
boils down to, in its essences. It is nothing but what oneman alone harbours in his head with this Fund, this Board, and this representation of Guyana’s oil wealth. How it is overseen, comes down to the dictates of a Guyanese sturdy in troubling, undermining practices. The VP is quoted as saying, that Mr. Dunstan Barrow “has enormous financial skills; he is not an active politician, so we needed that, we needed diversity but not political diversity there.” This gets curiouser by the moment. Without knowing anything about Mr. Barrow, other than his tenure in the bauxite industry, I will agree that he must have had “enormous financial skills” which the Vice President touted. But what is peculiar here is that convenient position that “he is not an active politician.” There is apparently a double standard at work in this instance. For as we are well aware, one doesn’t have to be
engaged, even affiliated, to be considered active. What matters is to have taken a position for a side not the PPP’s (or against the VP) and that is the end of that, meaning, such Guyanese don’t belong. It would be helpful if this leader and his defenders were not to insult Guyanese some more by pointing to Mr. Joseph Hamilton or Carl Greenidge, as they serve their purposes. On the other hand, the mere identification with, and the accompanying suspicion of, taint through contradicting the PPP and the VP is enough to condemn any such Guyanese as undesirable subversives. I think that this is what is playing out here. There is this unreasonable fear on the VP’s part that dissenters and deviationists, no matter how honest, conscientious, and patriotic should not be anywhere inside this NRF Board. They will see and hear too much regarding how matters play out, and they will
Local content and extended family Dear Editor, I agree that priority should and must be given to our fellow Guyanese, but we must not turn our backs on those who have a shared history with us. Our friends from Trinidad & Tobago have a shared heritage and culture which we must not forget nor ignore. Selectively and gradually bringing on board those companies and individuals who we deem will add value while remaining loyal to those
that help them is a positive way of expanding our nation’s workforce and capabilities. Of course, all troublemakers must be avoided at all costs, but those who will be responsible future citizens and business partners should be welcomed and their integration into our communities enabled. Staying selective while also ensuring our citizens remain our first priority, is an achievable goal that will not
weaken our strong diplomatic ties with members of our Caricom Community. Best regards, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
understand and know too much of the underhanded practices that could come to characterize the stewardship at the Board level of this crucial oil fund. According to the Demerara Waves story, the government wanted the Board to remain ‘a technical body’ but hedged when asked what would have been government’s position if the coalition had nominated a technical expert. Specifically, the VP said that a “number of people there were political and some have pecuniary interest; a couple that were there are doing work for oil and gas companies; accounting work, auditing work; they have pecuniary interest.” Using this same standard, it would be enlightening to learn of the VP’s position on the Private Sector Commission nominee to the Board, and how he and his entity could be totally divorced from commercial opportunities, which serve “pecuniary interest.” If the VP were going to say that the private sector is lacking in “pecuniary interest” in oil and gas prospects, then he might be the only Guyanese who
thinks along those lines. But, as I interpret matters relative to this NRF Board, it is the VP’s own words that condemn him, sets him up to come across as the worst of unpersuasive leaders, someone with serious interest in how the NRF Board goes about its business. This is what the VP said: “we needed diversity here, but not political diversity.” It would be revealing what Guyanese think of that, which clearly paves the way for the improper, the less than straight with this oil fund. Obviously, this diversity is what the VP determines it to be; the appearance of it, and the farce that it already is. For this mysterious “diversity” of the VP comes down this: the PPP wants no pushback, not even a whiff of it, no matter how constructive. The PPP and VP have no tolerance for clashing positions regarding the recommendations and dispositions involving precious oil money. The diversity that the VP market is where all members of the
NRF Board speak his language. That is, get on with it, don’t waste time; discussions must follow a preconceived path: all must agree swiftly and the quicker the better. Which is why there, his loading up of the Board. All directors must think alike, there must be absolute confidence in that, which is why these shams about “diversity” and “pecuniary interest” are nothing more than political window dressing. Guyanese are familiar with these pretenses where oil and gas are concerned. There are public consultations that are a joke; and Environmental Protection Agency that is a bigger comedy. All are supposed to think alike and get with the PPP and the VP’s program. It is not in the interest of Guyana with this oil. Not when there is this twisting in the wind, cunning attempts to destroy Guyana’s promise more. Sincerely, GHK Lall
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Jagdeo right on T&T falling apart Dear Editor, Reference is made to Jagdeo’s ‘falling apart’ statement” (March 25 and 26) about Trinidad and Tobago. The Vice President is right. The T&T economy has not been doing very well as in earlier decades. It may not be politically correct for a high government figure like the VP to make such a remark that could be interpreted as an attack on a fellow Caricom nation. It may also be viewed as undiplomatic. No one would be offended if the statement was uttered by me or some other political analyst or academic. It is an accurate statement. And one must understand it in the context used. The VP did not mean to offend or pass judgment on the current administration of T&T but to learn from the T&T model of using its petrodollars. At any rate, not too many people in Trinidad and Tobago would disagree with the VP. I travelled to T&T frequently as many as ten times a year over the last few decades except during 2020
and 2021. I was there just two weeks ago to conduct a survey on the popularity of the government and other issues. (The government is very unpopular but more acceptable than the political opposition that is not viewed as a viable alternative even among its traditional supporters. Although very unpopular in 2020, Rowley was comfortably re-elected as polls I conducted predicted). It is reported that the T&T PM Dr. Rowley was peeved about the statement. The Foreign Minister of T&T protested the ‘off the cuff’ comment of the VP. The government official must protest for public consumption. That is normal in diplomatic relations. Jagdeo was simply commenting on T&T’s unwise use of petrodollars (over US$300 billion in today’s money) without planning for the future of the economy after oil runs out. He was commenting about the economy not about governance although economy is tied to governance. The T&T
economy has not been doing very well in recent years. He was cautioning Guyanese that we must not fall in the same boat, and he assures that this administration will not spend our petro-dollars unwisely. His goal is for Guyana to avoid the so-called oil curse which so many countries have fallen victims. There is nothing in Jagdeo’s remark for the T&T administration to be upset about. The VP did not attack or criticize the Rowley government. Economists or socio-politico analysts in T&T and throughout the Caribbean would not disagree with the VP’s assessment of T&T economy. Jagdeo was not criticizing the Rowley administration for its handling of petro-dollars. The misuse of oil money began decades ago under Eric Williams and continued by successive administrations. Rowley (in office since Sept 2015) has not been in a position to change economic course although his administration has not made any serious effort to plan for
Noise levels should be controlled during stadium shows Dear Editor, Dr. Yog Mahadeos Noise Nuisance letter (SN 22.03.22) has compelled me to abandon the ranks of the silent majority and to speak out on a similar distressing situation with, which residential communities adjacent to the Providence Stadium are faced whenever shows and concerts are staged there. Over-amplified music, discordant notes and loud mouthed DJs or announcers, continuing into the ridiculous hours of the morning and most recently daybreak. Editor, if ever the Covid19 Pandemic cloud were to have a silver lining, for me, it would have to be the two year hiatus on public shows and concerts which provided welcome relief from the occurrence of these noisy events at Providence. The easing of Covid-19 restrictions in February saw a flurry of activities during Republic Anniversary week, followed most recently by the day-long Phagwah Holi holiday celebration. A total of six loud and over-amplified
“concerts” lasting 8 to 10 hours each, from the time the musicians commence their warming up and equipment testing. Rehearsals as well all at high volume in an empty Stadium in the earlier parts of the day or evening before the commencement of the show. Let me emphasize here that this issue is not at all about concerts and shows being staged at the stadium, or anywhere else for that matter. The people must have their recreation and fun, but within the limits of the law. It is all about adherence to legally enforceable noise nuisance regulations which apply to the National Stadium as much as it does to the village rum shop or the wedding house. And one would expect the example to be set by them. The Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport must ensure that the existing protocols for shows and concerts at the Stadium are strictly adhered to, especially as they impact adjacent communities and the non-participating public at
large. The main detractors of this are the show organizers and the music and stage managers who use the precept of a Ministry or Government activity as the reason for exceeding decibel levels. So that show or concert organisers or their duly appointed representatives flout the decibel control regulation with impunity under shelter of the National Stadium administration. I should mention that reports to the Providence Police Station during noisy shows are always courteously handled and patrols are dispatched, however little relief is experienced. For the benefit of adjacent residential communities, I trust that the Providence Stadium administration would review the current untenable situation and engage stakeholders in an effort to provide some relief to residents in their homes during show time. Sincerely, Rowland Fletcher
an economy post-energy. Only the Basdeo Panday administration attempted to plan for the future by putting money aside for hard days. Many people around the region and in T&T in particular feel T&T does not have much to show for the large amount of oil money received. Much of the money was frittered away. Many in the public feel a lot of money was siphoned off by officials going back to the 1960s and invested in Miami, Toronto, and London. There were many reports in the media. An alternative economic base has not been created unlike say among Middle Eastern oil economies or Malaysia or
Mexico. Agriculture has been neglected; arable land was used for public housing instead of building an agrobased economy as several countries have done. No T&T government in recent years has been able to meet rising expectations and demands. Every administration since ANR Robinson in 1986 was advised to pursue economic diversification, but none wanted to swallow the unpopular medicine fearing a backlash from the population and non re-election. And unless a lot of energy is discovered soon and the government pursues economic diversification,
T&T could find itself in greater economic problems. Many Trinis have migrated to Guyana looking for work and or invest. In his bold remark about T&T falling apart, Jagdeo aims for Guyana to learn a lesson. He does not want Guyana to follow the T&T precedent among Caricom partners – of frittering away oil revenues. Guyana’s oil revenue must be used to diversify the economy — agro industrialization and encouraging start up industries tied to low cost energy like petro-chemicals, fertilizers, glass, tiles, etc. Yours faithfully, Vishnu Bisram
Nigerians waited 30 years for oil... From page 2 to provide insurance coverage, and instead tied its subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to provide this guarantee. It has been argued however that EEPGL, being a fairly new company, with assets worth only about US$5 billion, it 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 project -the Yellowtail development - 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 during his interview, 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.
Guyana yet to implement over 100... From page 3 government to manage the sector, especially when one considers the magnitude of the resources discovered, are enormous. It notes that requests for new licences and exploration have accelerated, in spite of the drop in oil prices. In light of this, Paul noted in his analysis that reviewing, approving, and overseeing the implementation of the field development plans for oil projects and subsequent production will require very significant human and other resources. Paul pointed out, however, that Guyana has a very limited capacity in this area, while adding that its laws, contracts and institutions are outdated and under-resourced to meet the demands of upcoming activities. The industry expert was keen to note that improving the foundational components of the country’s petroleum governance system, that is to say, its legal and institutional frameworks are fundamental to managing oil money successfully. If the country
fails in this regard, Paul noted that Guyana would be left wide open to risks of corruption and abuse as well as losing very significant value. Among his many recommendations was a call for the frequent use of Guyana’s parliamentary sectoral committees on natural resources and economics. Paul stressed that these committees can be effective regulatory tools for the sector. In capturing value, Paul said that Guyana needs to implement systems which will allow it to make the proper decisions on various issues such as the right rate of production and depletion of the resources, getting the best possible contract terms for Guyana, ensuring the actions of companies are done in an environmentally and socially responsible manner, and ensuring there is maximum capacity development among locals to enable their participation. In managing revenue, the Trinidadian Strategist said, Guyana would also have to put mechanisms in place urgently, which will allow for
the effective collection of all oil revenue due to the State, while ensuring that there is prudent spending by enhancing infrastructure, services and capacity for future sustainability along with ensuring savings for future generations. Further to this, Paul was keen to note that the authorities of the day must make every effort to ensure that it is informing Guyanese of how and when they are making decisions about the oil resources. He said that it is required of the citizenry to make sure that these decisions are in their best interest. He said, too, that Guyanese must demand that the government implements systems to ensure transparency and accountability for each institution tasked with spending the oil money and regulating industry performance. Overall, Paul’s report highlights the need for Guyana to make urgent reforms, otherwise, the nation stands to lose billions more, and that is outside of what is already lost by way of the lopsided Stabroek Block deal.
Monday March 28, 2022
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Monday March 28, 2022
Police mum on alleged racial, physical abuse of female cop by attorney Attorney, Nirvan Singh
More than a week after an attorney allegedly abused a female police rank, physically and racially, the Guyana Police Force has remained silent on the matter despite several questions posed to its Corporate Communications Unit. This newspaper last week reached out to one of the operatives, Stan Gouveia and was met with silence. Similar questions were asked in a Whatsapp group, which is comprise of the top brass of the Guyana Police Force as well as the Minister of Home Affairs, but again no response was given. Last week the policewoman who was allegedly assaulted verbally and physically on March 20 at the home of attorney Nirvan Singh, called for a swift investigation into the matter and has also demanded monetary compensation and public apology. Shawnette Bollers WC15555, in a letter from her lawyer Eusi Anderson, also accused Singh, the son of former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh of spitting on her.
She stated that she is an employee of the Guyana Police Force and was assigned guard duties at the Georgetown location where Singh lives with his father. The letter said that on March 20, around 22:13 hours, “in the dark of night, you unleashed an unprovoked, verbal tirade of racially charged insults to her saying, among other things, “monkey”, “black monkey”, Black people have no purpose in life and “get out, get off of my property.” The letter said Singh was loud and aggressive and repeatedly violated the rank’s personal space by coming some two inches of her face to cause saliva droplets to touch her. On the same night, Singh was accused of chasing the rank from his residence and following her some distance away, “…further assaulting her, spitting at and on her and spewing vile words.” The female rank said she fled the location and reported the matter to her superiors who despite her complaints, caused her to return to Singh’s residence to
continue her duties. It was said that on March 21, the older Singh reportedly apologised to the rank on behalf of his son. In the letter Anderson said Singh’s actions, “…in their most polite description, constitute diverse civil and criminal wrongs,” and that his client is hopeful that the Guyana Police Force would institute the necessary charges. Bollers, at the age of 32, is working to acquire her CXC certification and will sit the exam in May. The matter however, has left the woman, “…unhinged and staring into space as she reflects on the ordeal she endured in the dark hours alone that night of 20th March, 2022.” It was noted too that the ordeal also took place on the woman’s wedding anniversary. “She is adamant that complaints must be lodged with the Bar Association and all Attorney regulatory bodies locally and internationally. She is adamant that complaints be lodged with all human rights, women rights and Black Rights bodies locally
and internationally.” The lawyer’s letter stated that silence from local representing bodies has emboldened the female police rank to expose the matter and take measures to verify her story. “She is making arrangements to take a public lie detector test (polygraph test) on national television and Facebook live to underscore the integrity and veracity of her claims. She has directed me to institute a “lawsuit” to use her words. This will be forthcoming irrespective of your actions or omissions. She has directed me to record that she is not afraid of any official or unofficial victimization that may follow her decision to stand firmly in her human dignity and basic right to be a proud Black woman.” The lawyer’s letter has suggested a public apology both written and oral from Singh in the next 24 hours. “I humbly suggest that same be deeply contrite and equal to the damage done. I humbly suggest that whilst doing so you consider a fair amount of financial compensation to
offer her. Same can be made to me in writing in short order, considering the damage done to her and the steps she proposes to take n a t i o n a l l y a n d internationally,” Anderson noted. Anderson reminded Singh that the world is still in observance of the United N a t i o n ’s I n t e r n a t i o n a l Decade for People of African Descent declaration, and posited, “…that speaking to brown and black people in that form was last appropriate about 400 years ago and certainly not in the decade of African people. That any person speaks to a brown person in that manner in 2022, especially in your esteemed office, is both out of time by 400 years and out
of place in an era where race is no longer a bastion of insult.” CONDEMNATION Meanwhile, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) said it is appalled by the incident in which policewoman, Shawnette Bollers, was the victim of a most vile and depraved racial attack by Attorney-atlaw Nirvan Singh, while she was on guard duties at his premises on the night of March 20th. The unprovoked attack involved an assault, repeated spitting, and a verbal tirade of racial insults, the party said in a statement. The woman’s employer the Guyana Police Force has Continued on page 18
Monday March 28, 2022
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Kaieteur News
Jagdeo is ill-informed about Trinidad and Tobago’s economy Second Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo’s comments about the economy of Trinidad and Tobago falling apart and not likely to see the light of day in the future were undiplomatic, loose and intemperate. They were also ill-informed and off target. The economy of Trinidad and Tobago is not falling apart. It has experienced negative real GDP growth in recent years, on account of the decline of its oil sector but to conclude that the economy of the twin-island is falling apart is a mischaracterisation. It is true that the economy of Trinidad and Tobago has been highly dependent on oil and gas. But that has been the situation with most oil and gas economies. Between 2010 and 2015, the oil and gas sector accounted for around 40 percent of Trinidad and Tobago’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). But what Jagdeo seems to have overlooked is that after only one year of oil production, oil accounted for 17 percent of Guyana’s GDP in 2020, and is expected to account for 40 percent of its GDP by 2024. So which is the more oil-dependent economy, Guyana or Trinidad and Tobago? It is true that the economy of the twin-island Republic has been in decline since 2016. Its real GDP has undergone six years of contraction – by 6 percent, 2.7 percent, 0.7 percent, 0.2 percent, and 7.4 percent in years 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 respectively. It is estimated to have shrunk by almost 1 percent last year. And it is true that much of this decline has been due to the fall in its energy exports. But while Trinidad and
Tobago has its problems, its economy is not falling apart. Indeed, that country has the fifth highest per capita GDP in this part of the world. Guyana is listed among the three poorest in the western hemisphere. Nor can Trinidad and Tobago be said to be suffering from the resource curse. If anything, it is Guyana which has long suffered from the resource curse. Boasting timber, sugar, rice, bauxite, gold and other precious metals, Guyana still has one of the lowest per capita incomes in the western hemisphere despite a small population. It is also Guyana which has more to fear from the Dutch disease than Trinidad. The twin-island Republic has had 100 years of oil production. But given Guyana’s plans to maximize production and benefits in the shortest possible time, it is the Cooperative Republic which has more to fear from Dutch disease than Trinidad and Tobago. Jagdeo ought to know better than to depict Trinidad and Tobago as making the mistake of being dependent on oil. Services in Trinidad and Tobago accounts for more than 40 percent of that country’s GDP. Trinidad and Tobago has a strong manufacturing and services sector. Jagdeo was Minister of Finance in Guyana when Seeram Bros. and DIPCON, Trinidadian firms, dominated road construction in Guyana. He also ought to appreciate the contribution which Trinidad Cement Limited and its locally incorporated subsidiary made to the infrastructural development of Guyana.
He must also be aware that Trinidad companies were strong competitors for the supply of medical equipment in Guyana’s health sector. Many Guyanese often seek medical attention and university education in that country. Jagdeo is known to shop at Massy supermarket. One dismissed state employee said that she met him there and spoke to him about the termination of her services. This outlet is part of a giant Trinidadian manufacturing and retail chain. When he was President, there were discussions with the Trinidadians about establishing a distillery in Guyana. Those discussions led to problems between his government and Yesu Persaud. There is still stiff competition between local brewers Banks DIH and the Trinidadian firm Ansa McAl, with many feeling that the twin-island firm has the upper hand in the local market. Trinidad’s manufacturing outstrips the rest of the Caribbean. In fact, Trinidad enjoys an envious trade surplus with most CARICOM countries. When Guyana started to develop its oil and gas sector, Trinidad companies moved in. Without them, Guyana would have seen an invasion from firms outside of the region. Trinidad and Tobago therefore, has a strong manufacturing and services sector. Jagdeo, who was President for 12 years, needs to consider the state of Guyana’s manufacturing and services sectors relative to that of the twin island Republic. Jagdeo is equally wrong to assume that the Trinidad and Tobago’s economy is not
Dem Boys Seh…
De villagers know best De guvament putting de cart before de horse. Prezzie went to Pakuri Village and tell dem people how de guvament gan bring together de community and de private sector fuh have a hatchery and fuh increase egg production in de village. Dem gat one thing call free, prior and informed consent. It mean dat before any decision mek concerning de indigenous peoples, de authorities gat to talk with dem and get dem approval. Yuh can’t mek no plans
behind dem back and den put to dem. Yuh gat to put it first in front dem and let dem decide. De villagers know wah best fuh dem. But how it look as if somebody decide dat dem should have a hatchery in Pakuri and de guvament want push de idea. But dat is nat how it supposed to wuk. Is de community wah supposed to want de project first and den invite de private sector. As it looks now, is de private sector looking fuh team up with de community and de guvament acting as de
go-between. Dat is not how it supposed to wuk because it could end up being de private sector looking fuh use dem villagers and dem land. If de project is sound why yuh need private business people? Let it be a community project. Dat is why when dem politician come to yuh village, yuh gat to open yuh eyes and listen carefully to wat dem saying. Because all kind plans does be hatched (pun intended) and de villagers is de last fuh know. Talk half. Leff half.
expected to see the light of day in the near future. The International Monetary Fund in its Article 4 Consultation assessment, published this month, anticipates that the economy of the twin-island Republic will rebound and enjoy a 5.5 percent growth for 2022. Trinidad holds lessons for
Guyana but so do some of our local leaders. Having seen Jagdeo’s failure to turnaround the local sugar industry, Guyanese should be more concerned about his involvement in managing the natural resources sector, including oil and gas. (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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Monday March 28, 2022
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
The missing link in the PNC’s dialogue with Ms. Feinstein Ms. Barbara Feinstein from the US Department of State came to Guyana and had dialogue with the PNC. Mr. Aubrey Norton, the PNC leader was once a foreign service officer. He knows how embassies work and the role that is expected of diplomatic missions of the governments they serve. One such role is to transmit analyses to the home government. A simple hypothetical example s h o u l d s u f f i c e . L e t ’s s a y Argentine’s deputy foreign minister is coming to Guyana. The Argentine Embassy in Georgetown will inform the minister that he should not visit Zanadu village because the captain of the Guyana football team comes from the village and the folks there are still hostile to Argentina over a controversial World Cup match that Guyana lost to Argentina. When Ms. Feinsten, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, chose to come to Guyana, she would have read a US Embassy brief on
Guyana that included the 2020 election drama. Ms. Feinstein would have had her staff research the election credibility of Guyana which those staff members would have been guided on from the US Embassy. That is the kind of work embassies do. There is not even a modicum of evidence that any government in the world, any major international institution believes that the Guyana Government was not properly elected. Since August 2, 2020 with the legal acceptance of a new president, the PNC leader, their surrogates, the lunatic fringe, among others, have used the word, “installed” to describe the PPP government. The flesh and bones of this contention is that the US was the vehicle through which the PPP was allowed to secure power. From August 2020, these sectors have not explained to the Guyanese people two crucial factors that they have a moral duty
to do. Why did the US prefer a PPP administration over the incumbent? And secondly, what logistical methods were employed to facilitate power? Guyana remains one of the most intriguing nations even though it is not a known country in the world, comparatively speaking. If the US installed the PPP into power then the US Department of State would have been the key ministry in the US government tasked with that operation. In that mission, the key official would be the Assistant Secretary of State for Caribbean Affairs. That is what Ms. Feinstein is. Now why would the US plan an operation to remove the APNU+AFC government and the discussion excludes the State Department’s point person for the Caribbean? Did the PNC delegation raise the issue with Ms. Feinstein? I don’t know if they did because the PNC has not informed the nation if they did. But if they did or did not, they have a strong moral obligation to inform their supporters. It is going on to two years since the
election and the PNC have continued to emphasis the “install” theory. So why not take it a step further and explain to your supporters that the controversy was put on the agenda in the dialogue with Ms. Feinstein? If it was not, then explain why. But the PNC must explain it to their supporters. It is called moral obligation. In meeting with Ms. Feinstein, the PNC has further committed itself to electoral democracy. There has not been even one member of the hierarchy of the PNC since August 2020 that has even remotely hinted that the PNC is no longer interested in national elections. On the contrary, several PNC leaders have openly expressed the feeling that they are hoping to win the 2025 battle. Here is where the PNC will hasten its self-destruction. If you contest elections, then you cannot go on crying that you were cheated on every occasion. And on every occasion the world rejects your exclamations. The 2025 electoral landscape will be scientifically impossible for any plotter to rig. Given what happened from March to July in 2020, every
l
Frederick Kissoon oophole that contains the possibility of fraud will be graphically extirpated. The election in 2025 may be one of the world’s most transparent battles. The PNC has two years and a few months to request the mechanisms that are necessary for a tamper-free poll. If those tight arrangements are secured then the PNC has to and must accept the results. Analysts inside and outside of Guyana will predict their winner but what must not be contentious is the results if the process was transparent. How could the 2025 poll not be a virtual show for the whole world to see after what happened in 2020? In 2025, the loser must face reality and do the decent thing. (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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Monday March 28, 2022
Without proper governance and ‘Pay us to keep our forest intact’ oversight, Guyana still faces risk - AG tells Climate Change Forum in Indonesia of failing with oil ...Trinidad and Tobago is perfect example of this – TT Expert warns Even though it is crucial for the governments of oilproducing states to ensure maximum participation and capacity building of their citizens in the petroleum industry, that alone will not be enough to save the sector from failure. According to petroleum expert and energy strategist, Anthony Paul, his home country, Trinidad and Tobago, knows this lesson all too well. Paul noted that Trinidad has been in the game for more than a century while adding that it has made some admirable moves to ensure that its industry had significant levels of capacity building and technology transfer. In spite of having attained this fantastic feat, Trinidad and Tobago’s economy is desperately trying to get back on its feet. Paul said, “Everyone can see that Trinidad is struggling so it shows that having local content policies and supporting laws are very good virtues. They are necessary, but trust me, they are not sufficient and Guyana must not run away with that idea.”
The TT expert added, “You must have proper governance and oversight or else it will all fail. All your investment will fail or will lose value day after day.” Further to this, Paul sought to stress that at the heart of Trinidad’s struggle today is the lack of accountability of the regulator of the sector. Paul added, “That is my view. I know because I used to work for the regulator and they are the ones to manage it. I will give you an example if you think I am mistaken. The law says that every company operating in the oil and gas industry, no matter what they do, be it pipelines or gas petrochemicals, must have a licence. But you know what, there were many stakeholders in the petrochemical industry who did not have licences and they have been operating for 40 years.” As a result of this state of affairs, Paul said there was extreme opposition and difficulties to implement guidelines in a bid to regularise that section of the industry. As a result of this
Energy Expert, Anthony Paul lawlessness that was allowed, it prevented the government from abiding with a section of the law that requires a register of such licences to be properly kept and made available for public scrutiny. “…So you see, one can get very complacent in the face of oil money…Guyana needs to be aware of this danger,” Paul added while stressing the need for civil society actors to communicate the poignancy of these arguments to the man on the ground. Paul stressed that Guyana has to build a clear line of sight for communicating activities, impact, and outcomes to the citizens and making people feel that they have a right to demand better and know how they can go about doing so.
Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, SC Anil Nandlall has emphasized the need for forest rich countries like Guyana to be provided with incentives to keep their forests in tact amidst the global efforts to tackle climate change. Nandlall joined the Guyana delegation inclusive of Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag, as well as A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Members of Parliament (MPs), Christopher Jones and Dawn Hastings at the 144th InterParliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly Meeting held in Bali, Indonesia, this past week. Speaking at a High Level Parliamentary forum, AG Nandlall called for immediate action to be taken on climate change. According to the AG, the climate crisis has issued mankind an ultimatum. He said it is “Either we take immediate steps and drastic action or subject ourselves to an infernal global disaster. Indifference and inaction equal nothing short of destruction. Already, we are far behind in limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees celsius. The coming decade therefore must be the decade of decisive action.” Nandlall noted too that while “climate change affects us all its effects are more severe on the poorest and most vulnerable – especially Small Island Developing States and lowlying coastal states. “For us, it is a question of survival,” he said, adding that all countries must set
Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall SC at the 144th IPU Assembly Meeting held in Bali Indonesia.
more ambitious goals to reduce emissions According to the AG, all countries have an obligation to act, but the world’s foremost polluters have greater duty to institute steeper emission cuts. He said therefore that the pledge of US$100B per annum, made one decade ago, to support climate action must be met. To this end, Nandlall said that forests constitute a powerful arsenal in the fight against climate change. “Forest rich countries must be provided with the incentives necessary to keep their forests intact and reduce deforestation and forest degradation. Mindful that deforestation contributes 16% to annual global emissions and in recognition of the ecosystem and climate services provided by forests, it is imperative that we finalise the rules for carbon markets and REDD+ so as to properly value tropical forests and the climate services which they provide,” the AG added. Further, the Legal Affairs Minister noted that “Guyana by far remains a net carbon sink by a significant margin
where the 18 million hectares of largely intact forests in Guyana sequesters approximately 154 m tons of CO2 annually. “The forest provides this important ecosystem function as one of nine countries of the amazon – Guyana also has some of the highest forest cover on the earth along with one of the lowest deforestation rates.” He said Guyana is already playing its part in addressing climate change and will continue to do so. “We will maintain our forests – almost the size of England and Scotland combined, storing 20 gigatons of carbon – global assets. We will work with local communities in conserving, protecting and sustainably managing our forests, biodiversity and freshwater supplies...” Nandlall added that the Government of Guyana and Parliament will continue to aggressively enact laws and regulations and implement policies on climate change. In his presentation, Opposition Chief Whip and Member of Parliament, Christopher Jones Continued on page 18
Guyana delegation: From right : Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, SC Anil Nandlall, APNU+AFC Member of Parliament (MP) Dawn Hastings, Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir , Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag, as well as APNU+AFC MP, Christopher Jones.
Kaieteur News
Monday March 28, 2022
US inquiry exposes Exxon, other oil companies’ role in downplaying climate change An expanded inquiry by United States lawmakers into the role played by big oil companies to dissuade citizens from believing in climate change is not only proving that ExxonMobil, Shell, BP and Chevron knew about the devastating effects their trade was going to have on the environment, since the early 80s, but that they engaged in well-orchestrated action to convince people that climate change is not real. In September of last year, the United States (US) House of Representatives’ Oversight Committee said it was going deeper into the oil industry’s role in fostering doubt about the role of fossil fuels in causing climate change. February last, the Committee on Oversight and Reform’s inquiry, chaired by Representative Carolyn Maloney, found that oil companies engaged in “green washing” campaigns that involved downplaying the seriousness of climate change through misinformation and propaganda tactics, slothfulness in remedial efforts and the continued increase in emissions despite the need to reach net zero emissions by 2050 to avoid a climate catastrophe. According to the House’s report, experts who testified at this hearing ranged from among others, an atmospheric scientist, policy analyst and policy lawyer. Dr.
Michael Mann, Professor of Atmospheric Science at University of Pennsylvania said, “ExxonMobil’s own scientists, in a secret 1982 report that was never released to the public, made remarkably accurate predictions of both the rise that we would see in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and the planetary warming that would result given business as usual extraction and burning of fossil fuels.” Mann said they even used the word “catastrophic” to describe the potential impacts of that warming. “But rather than come forward with what their own scientists had concluded, they engaged in a campaign of denial and delay which continues on today.” In the US, Mann said, “We are now paying the extreme opportunity cost of that delay in the form of withering heat waves, more destructive tornado outbreaks, wildfires, and floods exacerbated by climate change.” Mann charged that whether it is the apocalyptic wildfires that ravaged California and the west, a heat dome over the Pacific Northwest that made parts of Canada hot like Phoenix, the devastating floods in Pennsylvania, or the remnants of climate changefueled hurricane Ida, “it is clear that dangerous climate change is upon us… and is costing the U.S. hundreds of billions of dollars a
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US experts say oil companies were aware of changing climate for some 4 decades but hid their findings.
year.” Mark van Baal, Founder of Follow This, a group of over 8,000 green shareholders in oil and gas companies pushing for change, said that if oil companies claim to be in an energy transition, then they would pivot to other sources of energy and spend at least 50percent of their investments in this new clean energy business model. “But these companies with their small amounts—which by the way are most of the time smaller than their marketing amounts—risk being the Kodaks of the 21st Century.” Van Baal said too, that shareholders sent an unequivocal message. “We need oil majors to cut emissions. However, Shell, BP, Chevron, and Exxon still intend to grow their emissions this decade, and they have no intentions to stop doing so.” He compared fossil fuel companies’ tactics to that of tobacco companies that pledge to prohibit smoking while continuing to produce and sell cigarettes.
D r. M a n n s a i d h e t o o understands that the oil companies plan to increase exploration. “My understanding is that they (oil companies) actually plan to continue to expand fossil fuel exploration in the years ahead. And that is actually, fundamentally, inconsistent with what the International Energy Agency, a pretty conservative body, has said, that if we are to stabilize warming below catastrophic levels, there can be no new fossil fuel infrastructure.” Exxon Mobil in Guyana plans to significantly increase its oil productions in the next three years. Greg Hill, Hess’ Chief Operating Officer has said that Guyana has the potential for six FPSOs producing more than one million gross barrels of oil per day at the Stabroek Block by 2027. The country has the potential for up to 10 FPSOs to develop the gross discovered recoverable resources currently estimated at more than 10 billion
barrels of oil equivalent. However, Guyanese are still demanding assurances, that should any environmental hazard, such as a spill occur, Guyana would be covered by ExxonMobil. The oil company had said its associate firm operating in the Stabroek block was covered by $2B. Environmentalist and other stakeholders have argued that the sum is inadequate, and that Exxon must commit to further assurances that would protect the environment. Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo gave government’s commitment Thursday that a separate document would be issued to Exxon, which ensures a guarantee is secured, should an oil spill occur. He said the p e r m i t f o r t h e Ye l l o w t a i l development which is expected to come on stream in 2024 is expected to be stronger than any. Three operations, the Liza One, Liza Two and Payara have been granted approval, without guarantees in Continued on page 16
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Monday March 28, 2022
EPA seen as breaking law by Cop among 3 killed accepting ‘flawed’ application in road accidents for new Demerara River bridge The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) breached the EPA Act of 1996 by glossing over the design requirement, as mandated in Section 11 (1) (i), when it accepted an application from the Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) for the construction of the new Demerara River Bridge that lacked key details of the project. According to Section 11 (1) of the Act, “A developer of any project listed in the Fourth Schedule, or any other project which may significantly affect the environment, shall apply to the Agency for an environmental permit and shall submit with such application the fee prescribed and a summary of the project including information on- (i) the site, design and size of the project; (ii) possible effects on the environment; (iii) the duration of the project; (iv) a non-technical explanation of the project.” Section 11 (2) goes on to explain, “Where it is not clear whether a project will significantly affect the environment, the developer shall submit to the Agency a summary of the project which shall contain the information as required by subsection (1) and the Agency shall within a reasonable period publish in at least one daily newspaper a decision with reasons as to whether the project- (a) will
not significantly affect the environment, and therefore exempt from the requirement for an environmental impact assessment; or (b) may significantly affect the environment and will require an environmental impact assessment.” The EPA has waived the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirement for the new bridge, but the law is clear that the developer is still expected to submit a Summary of the project which should contain the design and other key features of the project. However, in the Project Summary for the new Demerara River Bridge, published by the EPA on its website, these details are nowhere to be found. Instead, the document gaves a brief history of the old structure and its usefulness to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It also highlighted in the second paragraph that the new bridge will go upstream and near to the present Demerara Harbour Bridge, across the Demerara River from Nandy Park to La Grange and that the proposed fixed four-lane structure will have a vertical clearance over the channel of approximately 50m above the maximum tide level. E v e n t h o u g h environmentalists hold the view that the project can have significant impacts on
both marine and human life, the EPA concluded that an EIA would not be required for the project. Notably, this newspaper could not find any reasons listed for the decision to waive the EIA requirement, although the EPA Act also states that reasons for the regulator’s approval or rejection of a project must be published. According to Section 12 (2), “The Agency shall publish its decision and the grounds on which it is made.” The design of the new structure has been at the center of debates this past week with former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson criticizing t o m o r r o w ’s p u b l i c consultation, as the blueprint on the bridge is yet to be announced, which he says will determine potential impacts of the construction. 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. The former Minister of Public Infrastructure is adamant that the design of the new crossing would determine where connector roads would be built or Continued on page 16
The proposed alignment for the new Demerara River Bridge.
The policeman’s car that crashed into a shop at Lusignan, E.C.D.
Dead, Police Sergeant, Kwame Kellman A 34-year old police sergeant is among three persons killed just hours apart in three separate road accidents that occurred across the coast late Saturday and early Sunday. Dead are Kwame Kellman, the policeman of Vi g i l a n c e , E a s t C o a s t Demerara (ECD), Sachin Persaud, 19, of 69 Avenue ‘A’ Diamond, East Bank Demerara (ECD) and Fiuz Hussaine, 66, of Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara (WCD). Persaud, the teenager, was the first to be killed in an accident that occurred around 20:00hrs on Saturday along the Craig Public Road, EBD. The teen was reportedly struck by a car and ran over by another while crossing the public road in the vicinity of Natram’s General Store. Police have detained both drivers of the cars, one of them a 47-year-old resident of Sunflower Circle, South Ruimveldt Park, Georgetown. He told investigators that he was driving north along the western side of the road and while approaching the store he saw two pedestrians
The car involved in the accident with the pensioner at Windsor Forest, W.C.D. suddenly acrossing. He claimed that he had applied brakes and swerved to the eastern side of the road to avoid hitting them. However, his left-side mirror struck one of the pedestrians. The other driver claimed that he was heading in the opposite direction when two cars swerved into his lane and he was forced to swerve to the other side to avoid a collision but while doing so he felt his car ran over something. He stopped the vehicle and decided to check only to see that it was a man. The same male pedestrian that was struck by the left side mirror of one of the cars he had swerved from. An ambulance was summoned immediately from the Diamond Fire Station. A doctor who was part of the Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) team on
the Ambulance pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene. The remains were later identified to be that of 19-year-old Persaud and taken away to the Carmen’s Funeral home. Almost four hours later around 23:55hrs Sergeant Kellman was killed in an accident at Lusignan on the East Cost of Demerara. Kellman lost control of his car while driving home and crashed into a shop located on the northern side of the Lusignan Public Road. The impact of the crash alerted nearby residents and they along with other motorists who had stopped at the scene decided to render assistance. They were able to free a severely injured Kellman from his wrecked vehicle. According to reports, he was still alive while being removed from the car but by Continued on page 16
Kaieteur News
Monday March 28, 2022
PAGE 15
‘Jagdeo’s position on T&T unfortunate’
- Gaskin says Guyana could face worse outcome By Rehanna Ramsay While Vice President (VP), Bharrat Jagdeo continues to stand by his statement that the economy of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) is falling apart, economist and transparency advocate, Ramon Gaskin is warning that the VP should be careful of what he says about the economic difficulties faced by the fellow oil producing Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation, since Guyana’s oil situation may result in a far worse outcome. Gaskin comments come days after Jagdeo defended his statement on T&T, promising that Guyana will not fall into the same boat given the efforts to maintain an economy which is not dependent only on its oil and gas. While J a g d e o ’s w o r d s m a y s e e m comforting, when taken at face value, Gaskin invites Guyanese to take a closer look at Guyana’s economic situation. He noted that even with diversification of the economy, Guyanese have not benefited adequately from the resources. Additionally, he said an examination of Guyana’s oil deal and systems put in place to adequately manage the sector, paints a grim picture of the nation’s
Vice President (VP), Bharrat Jagdeo future with oil and gas. “When we look at our overall position I think he should be very careful of his position because even with the current [diversification] and other sectors contributing to the economy, many Guyanese remain poor. They have not been benefiting as they should from the resources. Guyana has been known for favouring foreign investors. If you look at every other major sector, gold, bauxite, timber … It is the Chinese, RUSAL [Russians], Canadians and the other people who benefit most. Guyanese have barely been feeling the trickle
down effects. So I really don’t know what Mr. Jagdeo is promising the people when he says that Guyana will be better off,” Gaskin asserted. The local transparency advocate is of the view that the VP’s word should be taken with a grain of salt. He said, “We all know that Guyana will not benefit much given the deal it signed with Exxon and the other oil companies HESS and CNOON. There is too much risk involved with the oil exploration already in case of an oil spill because there is no adequate insurance coverage. That alone could lead to serious financial problems and bankrupt the country now and in the future.” Ta k i n g a l l o f t h i s i n t o consideration, Gaskin said in fact, it is possible Guyana can end up worse than T&T in a few short years. “I don’t know how we are going to be so well off as an oil producer. The government has not presented a plan to the people of how they will spend the little they are getting in the next three to five years. So, there is no evidence to support Mr. Jagdeo’s position,” he said. In the meantime, Gaskin described Jagdeo’s decision to maintain his position on T&T
economy as “quite unfortunate.” “It is very undiplomatic and unfortunate, the choice of words used by Mr. Jagdeo to speak about a fellow CARICOM nation. If you look at the situation that Trinidad is facing, the entire world is facing it,” he added. Jagdeo‘s comment on T&T was made during a recent two-day outreach he conducted on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two. He was at the time speaking about the need to diversify Guyana’s economy to ensure that it does not become poor like other countries that were dependent on revenues from its oil and gas sector. He said, “Invest some of the oil and gas resources into building the infrastructure, so the non-oil and gas sector in the future can generate the jobs because if you don’t do that, when the oil money goes we will be poor more than many countries in the world…look at what is happening in Trinidad now.” He continued, “Trinidad is falling apart and that is putting it mildly, falling apart. No jobs to sustain periods of negative growth, can’t see the light of day, can’t see the light of day for the near future.” Though his statements were reportedly not well received by his Trinidadian counterpart, the VP has
Local economist and transparency advocate, Ramon Gaskin been maintaining that Trinidad was heavily reliant on its oil sector, which led to its economy crashing after global oil prices fell. The VP related that he has been keeping track of Trinidad and Tobago’s economic performance for a while now. He said, “I recalled reading one of their earlier budgets, not the 2022 budget where in one year they lost 80 percent of their revenue because of the change in the oil and gas prices and the fall in production.” While the government’s aim for Guyana to diversify its economy in order to avoid the “Dutch Disease”, or in other words for the country not to become poor when the oil resources are finished, experts in the sector have advised that Guyana could still end up in huge debt and become poor if they do not renegotiate good deals with foreign oil companies.
PAGE 16
Monday March 28, 2022
Kaieteur News
EPA seen as breaking law by accepting ‘flawed’...
VEHICLE FOR SALE
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From page 14 developed, the level of pollution, in terms of dust and noise and others. Environmentalist, Simone Mangal-Joly also highlighted her concerns on the absence of key details regarding the project as well. In a letter to the Executive Director of the EPA, Mr. Kemraj Parsram on March 26, Mangal-Joly contended that the Ministry of Public Works’ application for the construction of the new bridge lacks basic information on the proposed development.
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Mangal-Joly was keen to note that no proposed design was attached, while the application also fails to provide information on the scale, geographic placement, and relative layout of infrastructure, access roads to which the application refers, drainage systems that would have to be modified as stated in the application, or properties in the right of way that would have to be demolished. Additionally, she also brought to the attention of Parsram that information on the locations, sequencing, and duration of proposed construction activities, including assembling works required for the bridge, access roads, the extent and location of dredging of the Demerara River, pile driving, or demolition works to which the application refers, was also not listed. To this end, she told the Executive Director of the EPA that, “It would be unfair to hold such a hearing without
prior disclosure of the relevant information upon which the EPA relied in making its decision to waive an EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment), especially as this basic information ought to have been part of the application for an environmental permit and formed part of the Public Register since November 19, 2021, and the EPA’s stamped date of receipt of the application.” 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 Board (NPTAB), but currently government is in talks with the company that will be constructing the Amaila Falls Hydropower plant, to build the new Demerara River
Bridge. The firms are: China Railway Construction Corporation International, China Railway Caribbean Company Limited and China Railway Engineering Bureau Group Company Limited submitted three financial proposals of US$260,852,464, US$260,852,464 and US$300,000,000. Although it has been just close to two months since the announcement, the Irfaan Aliled administration has not made a pronouncement on whether the proposal by the new company has been approved. 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.
Cop among three killed in road accidents... From page 14 the time the ambulance arrived he succumbed to his injuries. Undertakers were called in to remove his body and took it to the Jerrick’s Funeral Home. Kellman was attached to Police Division 4B (East Bank Demerara). The third road accident
took place some five hours later along the Windsor Forest Public Road on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), Region Three. This time a pensioner, Fiuz Hussaine, 66 was killed. Police say Hussaine was hit around 05:30Hrs on Sunday by a car while he was walking
US inquiry exposes Exxon, other oil companies’ role... From page 13 place from Exxon to shield Guyana beyond the US$2B sum in the event of a spill. The Union of Concerned Scientists, a nonprofit science advocacy organization based in the United States said that with 80 percent of people living on the coast and more than 70
percent economic activity happening there, Guyana is particularly vulnerable to rising sea–level stemming from climate change, plus regional shifts in the height of the sea. It was forecasted that Georgetown is among nine other cities around the world that would be under water by 2030.
along the public road. He was picked up in an unconscious state by the driver of the car, a 49-year-old resident of Bath Settlement West Coast of Berbice (WCB), and taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital. While receiving treatment for injuries to the head and the body, Hussaine died. Ranks were notified and the driver was taken into custody. He told investigators that he was heading west along the southern driving lane of the road when he spotted Hussaine walking on the grass parapet along the same side of the road and talking on the cell phone. The driver claimed that the pensioner suddenly made a right turn onto the road into the path of his car and was struck. He remains in custody as investigations continue.
Monday March 28, 2022
PAGE 17
Kaieteur News
‘Pay workers decent wages and gratuity will not look like gold mines’ - Witter tells labour minister President of the General Workers Union (GWU), Norris Witter is adamant that the government must pay citizens decent wages rather than enticing them with the idea of contractual work and gratuity. Witter was responding to a recent interview on Globespan 24x7 with Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton when he suggested that unions in Guyana have outlived their usefulness, and that more workers wanted to move over to contractual employment where they earn biannual gratuity benefits and have space to engage in other ventures. Minister Hamilton had explained that times have changed and people, especially young people, have a different attitude towards working than earlier generations. He said that people want money now to repair their homes, purchase vehicles and address other immediate matters. He pointed out that people are no longer interested in being employed at one job for long periods. That especially young people, who are multi-
talented and skilled, want to try various fields of work and that they want to travel and experience different trades, and contractual work allows them this space. He also said that many unions were not performing their duties properly as they were more concerned about union dues and pay for workers. He insisted little interest has been shown in training of workers, safety and other such activities. The GWU president believes however, that before any push is made to popularize contract work, fixed workers must earn a decent salary. “The reality of the matter is that because those workers are so poorly paid their gratuity in their eyes is like a gold mine.” He said, “What they (government) should do is to ensure that they pay those workers decently. Incorporate that same gratuity into their current salaries and then migrate them into permanent employees.” Witter explained that it makes no sense having a job for a fixed period, a year or two with no guarantee that at the end of the contractual
GWU President and members making their demands during Friday’s protest period the contract will be renewed. “There is no security. And as these people’s contracts draw close it creates anxiety and uncertainty among them.” The other point, Witter stated, is understanding that the fixed term contracts are tools used by politicians to infiltrate and access information from the workforce. “One must seek to understand the whole idea behind fixed term contracts. The fixed term contract was intended to patronise certain
86 youths graduate from BIT skills training programme Some 86 young persons from Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) graduated on Friday last from the Board of Industrial Training’s (BIT) National Training Project for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE) in commercial food preparation, garment construction, cosmetology and agro-processing. At the graduation ceremony held at the Hurricane Harbour, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, told graduates that the event is testimony to their ambition to be fully equipped with the requisite skills and knowledge to become better versions of themselves. “This graduation is not for me, commander or the head table, but this graduation is yours. Importantly you can say to yourself that I started something and I finished it. It is very important especially in a world filled with all kinds of issues you must compliment yourself that you started and you finished,” he said. Deputy Commander Guy Nurse said the programme has assisted in the reduction of the region’s crime by over 40 percent. Minister Hamilton said the programme will continue in the region, as well as in partnership with the police. The approach, he said, is in keeping with government’s
manifesto promise to provide opportunities for citizens to learn life-long skills. “We are looking to you to help us to intervene in communities, which based on your statistics, you need think that there is some need for people to be guided and trained.” Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BIT, Richard Maughn told graduates that education and training are key pillars to improving one’s marketability in today’s society and as such, they need to be determined about what they want for their future. “I charge you to envision your future, to plan for your future and keep moving forward with the plans and vision you have, as well to revise and reform when needed so that you can achieve the things you want for your life,” he said. Representatives of DPI also spoke to some of the graduates about their journey. Umadevi Blakarn, a single mother of two, was among the cheerful graduates in Region Five. She told DPI that her journey at times was challenging. “I had to take my children sometimes with me which was very hard, but I went through it by the grace of God and I am very happy to graduate today. I feel proud as a single
mom to do it, and so if you want this then you just have to be yourself and go for the goal that you want,” Umadevi said. Another graduate, 21year-old Dharanpaul Seecharan, who was the lone male among 34 females in his cosmetology course said that make-up, manicure and pedicure have been his passion for some time now and so partaking in the course was a ‘no-brainer’. “It felt a bit stressful at first but I got over it and so I would tell other males who may want to join to follow their dreams and do what they love to do the most. Never listen to the negativity, but the positive things and you will move forward in life,” he said. Now certified in commercial food preparation, Vanessa Persaud said she learnt about the programme “from a friend and they were selling it pretty good and I got hooked. It was such a great experience and I am so privileged to be given this opportunity.” Also present at the ceremony were Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphal, Vice Regional Chairman, Rion Peters, and BIT Senior Technical Officer, Bevon Shepherd, among others. (DPI)
loyalists within parties and put them in strategic positions to sequester information.” He said what is common is that these contract employees are placed in positions and are paid three and four times more than permanent staff. Contract workers are also afraid to join unions because they know that their contracts are for short periods. They believe that if they join unions, they would be vicitmised and their contracts not renewed, Witter explained. He said that the idea of fixed contracts is basically a political expedient, an innovative one that is not intended to derive economic or human development. The Auditor General’s report found that the David Grangerled government had employed a total of 471 contract workers for 2019 with their payments accounting
for 75 percent of employment cost for that year alone. The 471 employees on contract represented approximately 51 percent of the 924 employees as of December 2019. Witter and members of the GWU were at the time protesting in front of Parliament Building. They demanded the immediate signing of the tripartite agreement to raise the minimum wage from $44,200 to $60,000. They said that the high cost of living is enough for the government to expeditiously honour the agreement which Minister Hamilton had signed on government’s behalf since 2019. GWU called for the removal of income tax, claiming that if multibillion dollar companies like ExxonMobil and high judiciary officials like the Chief Justice and Chancellor of the judiciary are exempt
from paying the tax when they clearly have the means, then ordinary citizens should not have to face that cost either. GWU called for the reinstatement of the collective bargaining agreement mechanism which gives unions a platform to bargain for workers’ benefits. Witter said the previous People’s Progressive Party government had put a stop to the talks. While the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government had campaigned on it, they too had not restored collective bargaining. A renegotiation of the ExxonMobil contract was also called for as the union said Guyana must get a better deal from its patrimony. They said that with a better deal from oil revenue, the government could increase workers’ salary and in turn, improve the local labour environment.
Increased allocation to road safety council to curb road fatalities Government, in its effort to curb road accidents, has increased the financial resources given to the Guyana Nati o n a l R o a d Safety Council from $3 million to over $11 million. In 2021, the Guyana Police Force recorded a 30 percent decrease in fatal accidents and government is hopeful that the increase in financial support can further reduce road fatalities. Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, M.P, made the disclosure as he addressed the National Road Safety Stakeholders Forum on Friday. “I want us to partner together with the national council to find the best ways of using this money, of reinvigorating the effort in respect to road safety,” Minister Benn stated. The forum was used to engage stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan of action to reduce
traffic accidents and deaths by 50 percent by 2030 and a plan that would guide the council for the next five years. Minister Benn said the stakeholders now have the challenge to make an improvement in the numbers. He said stakeholders are aware of the gaps and the issues as it relates to safety. Added to that, the Minister pointed out that there is an influx of vehicles in the country, which the road ways were not built to accommodate. “The PPP/C government under the vigorous urging of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, is working at improving the infrastructure with the kind of response and with the kind of design suggested in relation to accommodating the traffic and making sure that
everything and everyone moves along safely and at a rate and speed which will level up with what is needed to develop our economy and our country.” Minister Benn also called for the change in behaviour of road users so that the financial responses could be redirected to other areas of development. He said a change in culture in the way public transportation operates must be in line with the development that is ongoing in the country. Chief Traffic Officer, Senior Superintendent, Ramesh Ashram reminded that road s a f e t y i s e v e r y o n e ’s business and an everyday practice. He said driving under the influence, careless use of the roads by pedestrians, speeding and motor cyclists not wearing helmets remain the main causes of fatal accidents. (DPI)
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Monday March 28, 2022
Kaieteur News
Large-scale poultry project earmarked for Pakuri - President Ali President Irfaan Ali on Saturday announced that as p a r t of his Government’s economic development programme, a large-scale poultry hatchery and egg production project has been earmarked for Pakuri Village, formerly known as St Cuthbert’s Mission. The Head of State made the announcement during his address at Pakuri’s Village Day celebrations in observance of its 133rd anniversary, the Office of the President reported. President Ali said that the project would be one of the largest of its kind in the country, and will satisfy the demands of the local market and the local poultry producers. He also made reference to the large consumption of eggs at the regional level and about its constant demand on the market. “We are talking about the production, annually of more than 30 million eggs to be part of the regional system. All of which is imported today.” The need for poultry production was evident, according to the President, since prices have continuously increased with a supply that has been restricted due to current global hallenges.
President Irfaan Ali interacting with residents of Pakuri According to President Ali, the only way for Guyana to curtail the effects caused by current global events is to become self-sufficient. “That is the goal. To work with this community in being the leading hatchery and hatching egg producer in our country.” The President explained that the Government will bring together the private sector and the community in the coming weeks to advance discussions. He stated that once the community and
‘Pay us to keep our... From page 12 emphasized the devastating effects of climate change globally. “My country Guyana is one of the countries of the world that is vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its 2021 report has Georgetown listed as one of nine cities that will be underwater by 2030; a mere eight years from now. He said too that though a small developing nation, Guyana noted that through the pursuit of a Green Economy, pledged to spare no effort to contribute to both a sustainable future and to an effective global response to climate change. “Our forests provide ecological and environmental services to humanity. On April 22, 2016, The Government of Guyana in recognition of its responsibility to contribute
to the global efforts to combat climate change, signed the Paris Agreement at the United Nations in New York.” “It would be remiss of me if I didn’t make mention of the fact that Guyana’s total area covers 83, 000 sq. miles which makes it the largest country in the Caribbean Community. Its forest covers more than 85% of its land mass. Guyana is what we would call a ‘net carbon sink’. That is, our forests sequester more carbon than the country’s human activity generates,” he said. Jones added too, “With the world’s second highest percentage of rain forest cover, Guyana commands important carbon stocks. As a signatory to the Paris Accord, Guyana is fully committed to ensuring it p l a y s i t s r o l e i n the reduction of global temperatures to below 1.5 degrees Celsius.”
the private sector come to an agreement, the Government will embrace the project with the aim of large scale production within the next 18 months. ”We can be self-sufficient in producing our own hatching eggs.” In his address, the Head of State also reiterated his Government’s commitment to ‘One Guyana’ and its quest to ensure key infrastructure development to facilitate a modern society with a solid
tourism product. He told residents that they have an excellent tourism product, which the Government will help to develop. To this end, the Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, the Honourable Anand Persaud and the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, the Honourable Pauline Sukhai were tasked to examine the main road network in the
community. President Ali said, “we are going to identify some key infrastructure that is necessary for the forward movement of the tourism sector.” Additionally, the Government will also invest in bolstering internet connectivity, education, training, and development to ensure that every child has “the best shot possible at life”. “‘One Guyana’ is not only a concept that is social in nature. ‘One Guyana’ is a concept that is economic in nature. We cannot achieve ‘One Guyana’ unless all of the people of this country have an equal shot at prosperity and development.” MOU SIGNED WITH UAE In this regard, the President stated that the Government of Guyana has signed an agreement with the UAE with the potential of providing training in coding at the primary school level and basic software development training at the secondary school level. “These are the initiatives that will transform the country”, the President stated while adding that investments are critical to ensure that Guyana’s children “get a better shot at life”. He also
alluded to a number of positive measures that have been implemented that are positively benefitting thousands of school students across the country. COMMUNITY PROJECT President Ali also took the opportunity to present a quantity of sport gear to the Toshao of Pakuri, Timothy Andrews. In addition, $500,000 was handed over for a project of the community’s choosing that will benefit its children. In honour of the President’s visit, he was presented with tokens of appreciation. The Mahaica River indigenous community (Region Four), of approximately 2000 people, marked the anniversary celebration with cultural presentations and sport activities. Parkuri’s Village Day was also attended by the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, the Honourable Pauline Sukhai, the Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Vickram Bharrat; the Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, the Honourable Anand Persaud and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, the Honourable Lenox Shuman.
Police mum on alleged racial, physical abuse... From page 8 remained silent on the matter and there is no indication whether they intend to investigate the attorney, whose father is the former Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh. “The racial insults hurled at Ms. Bollers do not bear repeating. But, understandably, the entire incident has left Ms. Bollers deeply traumatised.” The PNCR said, “all Guyanese, we are sure, would join in condemning such offensive conduct. We call on the leadership of the Guyana Police Force to ensure the matter is not swept under the carpet and that Ms. Bollers receives all the support she needs to overcome her emotional distress. 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 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.” The PNCR said 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 Ms. Bollers is a clear indication of the PPP/C
complicity in this heinous act. “As a country, we must work to ensure such abuses of persons based on their gender or race does not become normalized. We must relentlessly root out and reject all such behaviour by anyone, but especially by those who believe they are privileged by their social status or political connections. The PNCR will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure Ms. Shawnette Bollers receives proper assistance and full justice.” For its part the African Community Development Association (ACDA) also condemned Singh’s actions. “We view spitting in the face of this African-Guyanese woman in 2022 Guyana as worse than similar actions of white slave makers to Africans. Attorney Nirvan Singh’s conduct has no place in Guyanese society and must be rejected by all Guyanese, regardless of race or class.” According to ACDA it views this matter as not being isolated, but a symptom of a serious and expanding worsening of race relations in the country. “We condemn the leadership of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for its complicity by its failure to act as required by the law of the land. Guyana is a society based on the rule of law, and no citizen regardless of status or political connection is
above the law.” ACDA said it noted an apology from the older Singh, “…but the perpetrator remains unrepentant. Mr. Nirvan Singh is a conscious offender with no respect for decency and conduct befitting his profession as an officer of the court.” ACDA called on the Guyana Bar Association to take the necessary action against the Attorney for his alleged conduct. The Association said too, it notes “The rise of racial triumphalism since the return to office by the PPP/C government. This racial aggression must be stopped in the interest of national unity and peace. Those with the power to end this degenerative conduct must act now or accept responsibility for worsening race relations and the consequences. We demand that immediate charges be laid against Mr. Singh by the relevant authorities. Failure to do so will be viewed as a breakdown of the social contract that binds the society.” Adding his voice to the issue, trade unionist, Lincoln Lewis condemned the alleged action by the attorney even as he stated, that this nation must be called on to do better and recognise that our daily existence is intertwined. “The disrespect and violation of others will ensure continuous disruption of the peace and harmony most of us seek.
When taken into consideration, financial compensation and apology are not enough. Similar issues are taking place at other workplaces, with some being swept under the carpet, ignored, or the service of the victims terminated. Ms. Bollers is not only being commended for standing up to bigotry, but her outspokenness should serve as an exemplar of what is required to demand the right to be treated with respect and dignity, in the workplace and wider society. Yours truly trust she will not be victimised by her employer in defending her rights but would become a role model for standing up for what is just and fair.” Lewis said the time has come for issues of this nature, that have underlying racial prejudices, to be ventilated in frank, open and honest conversations, and structures put in place not only to educate but sanction those who think such conduct is acceptable. This nation was founded on the motto “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” by earlier progressive thinkers and leaders who recognised that together we can build a united Guyana where all are treated equally. For all are one and there truly is no division that surmounts that which binds us as a people, dependent on each other for individual and group survival.
Monday March 28, 2022
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Monday March 28, 2022
Kaieteur News
Odean Smith denies fantastic Faf dream debut as Kings stun Bangalore in IPL opener SportsMax - The Punjab Kings claimed a dramatic fivewicket victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore in their Indian Premier League opener, despite Faf du Plessis’ impressive debut at the DY Patil Stadium. Former South Africa skipper Du Plessis made the switch to the Challengers after leading the Chennai Super Kings to glory last year. Du Plessis mustered an impressive 88 off just 57 balls alongside Virat Kohli (41), who he replaced as captain, as the 37-year-old made his mark on his new side in emphatic fashion. That partnership generated 118 runs from 61 balls, while fellow
veteran Dinesh Karthik added 32 off just 14 deliveries as the three-time runners-up concluded on 205-6 from their 20-over allocation. Bhanuka Rajapaksa (43) and Mayank Agarwal (32) led the Kings’ response as they chased the target of 206. Their momentum stalled at the start of the 14th over; Mohammed Siraj dismissing Rajapaksa before Rajangad Bawa was trapped in front for a duck with the following ball. Akash Deep claimed Liam Livingstone (19) soon after but a late surge from Odean Smith, who managed 25 off only eight balls, and Shahrukh Khan
(24) saw the Kings over the line with an over to spare. Fantastic Faf Du Plessis hit 633 runs last season – a tally only bettered by Ruturaj Gaikwad (635) – as he inspired the Super Kings to a fourth IPL title. The veteran began this
Janet Jagan Memorial School... From page 23 Rashoda Khan 18 being the principal scorers. West Demerara 97-3 with Amy Persaud 40 not out and Sarvana Ramsarran 24; Charlestown Government Secondary 100-0 in reply with Donna Lowe 74 and Shania Moglorie 19.
Monday March 28, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you own your own home, you may learn today that its value has increased substantially. If you don't own a home but want to buy one, this is the time to start looking. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Some down-to-Earth conversations with a love partner could result in advancing the relationship to the next level of commitment, Taurus.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Corporate kudos and increased income that you may have been working toward for a long time may finally manifest today, Libra. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) This is a great day to deal with legal matters of any kind, Scorpio, including plans for a wedding, if one is in the offing!
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) The desire to make a particular purchase could have you reworking your budget today. This is a good time to do this, as your business and money sense are operating at a high, and you're likely to be savvier about finance than usual.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) A keen ability on your part to blend the worlds of intellect and intuition could well surface today, Sagittarius. The ability to focus both these methods of perception into material reality is apt to give a boost to your career and educational efforts.
CANCER(June21–July22) Suddenly you seem more glamorous than usual. You may exert a mysterious appeal that in the 1920s was called "it." Current and potential love partners may take a second look and be intrigued.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Relationships of all kinds become stronger and more enduring today. Successes boost the strength of business partnerships; love relationships advance to the next level of commitment.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your visionary tendencies are in the ascendant today, Leo, although they take more of a practical than mystical bent. You might look at your living room or backyard and suddenly find yourself redecorating it in your mind's eye.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) An interest in health and nutrition could come to the surface for you. New discoveries regarding the benefits of certain nutrients, exercise programs.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) As a person who enjoys being gregarious and outgoing, days like this provide a wonderful outlet for your energy. You might spend a lot of time with your family today.
campaign in the same vein, although his 10 boundaries (seven sixes, three fours) came in a losing cause for the Challengers. Scores: Punjab Kings 208 for 5 (Rajapaksa 43, Dhawan 43, Agarwal 32, Siraj 2-59) beat Royal Challengers Bangalore 205 for 2 (du Plessis 88, Kohli 41*, Karthik 32*) by five wickets.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Have you been thinking about taking a course in one of the arts, Pisces? Whether your preference is painting, music, drama, dance, or creative writing, if you commit now, you'll probably continue with it.
Action continues today March 28th the 13th Death anniversary date of the former president. Meanwhile, the Janet Jagan Memorial Schools Girls Windball Cricket moves to Region #6 tomorrow, Tuesday 29th at the Rose Hall Estate Welfare Centre Ground with play set to commence at 9:25am. This leg will see schools from Canje and New Amsterdam in action, namely Canje Secondary, New Amsterdam Technical Institute, Berbice High School, Vryman’s Erven Secondary, Berbice Educational Institute, New Amsterdam Multilateral School and Tutorial Academy Secondary School.
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West Indies romp to ten-wicket victory, series spoils, as Roach and Brathwaite finish off England ESPNcricinfo - The stadium DJ was playing London Bridge is Falling Down as the last rites of E n g l a n d ’s C a r i b b e a n humiliation were being administered by West Indies’ openers, Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell. 4.5 overs was all they needed to pick off the 28 runs needed for victory in the third Test in Grenada, and just 89 minutes of the fourth day’s play all told, as the Botham-Richards Trophy was captured with an elan to match the heyday of that pair’s rivalry. F i t t i n g l y, i t w a s Brathwaite who sealed the spoils with a flick through midwicket for two off Chris Woakes, as he finished a series of stunning personal resolve with an unbeaten 20 from 21 balls - a gleeful sprint for the finish at stark odds with the equivalent of eight marathons that he had run in compiling his 673
minutes of resistance in the drawn second Test at Barbados. England, shellshocked by the extent of their shortcomings in the course of this series-deciding Test, had no prayer as their fleeting stint in the field began, although in throwing the new ball to Saqib Mahmood, they did at least acknowledge the one seamer to have truly enhanced his credentials in the course of a miserable campaign. But the closest he came to a breakthrough was a speculative review for lbw, as Brathwaite pinged him for consecutive fours in his second and final over. England had resumed the final day with even a miracle feeling a far-fetched option for salvation. They led by 10 runs overnight with just two wickets standing, although in keeping with the trend of the match, there were few
demons for Woakes and Jack Leach to confront against the softer, older ball, which was already 53 overs old when play got underway. West Indies resumed with their third-day wrecker, Kyle Mayers, at one end, and the quicker options of Jayden Seales and Alzarri Joseph alternating at the other, but Leach and Woakes watched the ball carefully and played within themselves to add 13 runs in a sedate first 40 minutes. But then, Mayers made way for West Indies’ attack leader, Kemar Roach, and all he required was a solitary delivery to break the deadlock. The ball itself was a rank leg-sided long-hop, but Woakes’ firm flick flew rapidly to Jason Holder’s right at leg gully, who clung onto a one-handed blinder with the ball almost behind his back. Woakes was gone for 19,
Kyle Mayers ripped out a remarkable five-wicket haul • Mar 25, 2022 © Getty Images having added just one run since an earlier moment of alarm, when Joseph tucked him up from back of a length for a looping deflection to short leg. After a successful review, umpire Gregory Brathwaite had to reverse his
decision - the 19th overturned decision of the series. At 116 for 9, Leach was joined by England’s last man - and first-innings top-scorer - Mahmood, with the team management hoping against hope that could at least replicate their first-innings stand of 90, without which West Indies would already be celebrating an innings victory. This time, however, their partnership was almost ended after four balls, as Roach bent his back on the short ball, and Leach sliced inches short of point. Mahmood then got in a tangle twice in the same Joseph over, first with an appeal for caught-behind that flicked off his armguard, and then with a flapped pull off the eyebrows that looped over gully. The hostility of the shortball approach was at stark odds to the tame fare that England had served up when hunting the tenth West Indies wicket on the third morning, and with Leach pinned to his crease, Roach fired in the surprise fuller ball, to produce a thin edge through to the tumbling Da Silva. Once again, umpire Joel Wilson was unmoved, but West Indies were already celebrating before their review revealed a thin spike on UltraEdge. Afterwards, England’s captain, Joe Root, was magnanimous in defeat as he
sought out each of West Indies’ players for a handshake, but despite the growing sense that he has taken his team as far as he can carry it, he claims for the moment that he still relishes the challenge of leading the urgently required rebuild. “Throughout this series we’ve played some really good cricket, and shown what we’re capable of as a group,” Root said. “We’ve grown over first two games as a batting group, we’ve shown big strides in that department.” But as Brathwaite and his men held aloft the RichardsBotham Trophy, all such issues were secondary to the glory of a West Indies team that has once again rallied round. Their remarkable home run of success against England has now extended to three series wins and a draw since 2004, and one loss in 11 campaigns since 1968. “We had a camp before the series began, and we said this is one of our best series at home, we’ve got to fight hard,” Brathwaite said. “It’s carried through in every game, someone else raising their hand and doing the job, whether’s it’s in the field, or with the ball or with the ball, spending time. The effort was remarkable.” Scores: West Indies 297 (Da Silva 100*) and 28 for 0 (Brathwaite 20*) beat England 204 and 120 (Mayers 5-18) by ten wickets.
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GCA’s Noble House Sea Foods 2-day second division cricket
Everest to battle DCC in Final By Sean Devers y virtue of gaining first innings points in their drawn semi-finals yesterday at DCC and GCC g r o u n d s r e s p e c t i v e l y, Everest and DCC have advanced to the final of the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA) Noble House Sea Foods two-day second division cricket tournament. At DCC, Malteenoes were bundled out for 74 despite 26 from 13 balls with a four and three sixes from former Guyana Batter Shemroy Barrington. But Collis Rumple (11) and Jeremiah Scott (10) were
B
the only other batters to reach double figures in a disappointing batting performance. Scores: MSC 143 & 71, DCC 145 & 71-4. Left-arm spinner Daniel Mootoo followed-up his 549 in the first innings with 329 for match figures of 8-78 while Sachin Singh took 311 and Kareem Whitney had 2-26. DCC in their second innings, reached 71-4 in 18.2 overs with Jaden Campbell top scoring with an unbeaten 31 from 47 balls with two fours and a six, while fellow opening batter Raymond Perez smashed five boundaries in an explosive
24 before he was LBW to off-spinner Nichosie Barker. Barker then removed Singh (0) and Brandon Jaikaran (4) in quick succession before Nkosi Beaton (1) fell to Stephon Browne to give him his seventh wicket in the match as four wickets tumbled for 13 runs but it was too little too late for the Thomas Lands team. At Bourda, GCC began the final day on 34-3 in reply to Everest’s 207 and were bowled out for 141 as only Bernard Bailey, who struck three fours in a carefully constructed 38 from 88 balls before was caught off a rebound from the helmet of
Everest’s Matthew Nandu played some classy shots in his 41 but was troubled by Krsna Singh and is almost caught at silly mid-off at Bourda yesterday. (Sean Devers photo)
of
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GCC’s off spinner Krsna Singh was the best bowler on show at Bourda yesterday. (Sean Devers photo) the short leg fielder off the bowling of Richie Looknauth, offered prolonged resistance. However, only Thaddeus Lovell (22) and Aryan Persaud (19) of the other batters reached 15 as leftarm spinner Javed Rasheed had three wickets. Everest, in their second innings were 86-5 with
Dwayne Adams undefeated on 21 with three fours and a six, while West Indies U-19 Captain Matthew Nandu scored an attractive 41 from 62 balls with seven well timed boundaries before was well caught at silly mid-off by Zackary Jodah on the second attempt off Krsna Singh who troubled the lefthander with nice flight and
turn. The 16-year-old Singh, who also bowled Aaron Beharry for a duck, had two wickets and a very impressive spell. Pacer Bernard Bailey took the first two wickets to end with 2-22. The final is fixed for possibly this weekend at venue to be named.
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Monday March 28, 2022
BCB expresses shock and disgust at GCB press statement “The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has noted with shock and disgust a press release from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) which has left us totally speechless,” a release from the BCB informed. It continued, “The Berbice Cricket Board has kept its silence over the last few months despite been targeted by elements in the
Board since the recent elections in Essequibo. Our support is no longer wanted or needed and it seems like our success story is a source of jealousy for some. The BCB has submitted audited financial statement for 2018, 2019 and 2020 by a highly respected auditor and we have received full clearance in all three reports. The 2020 audited report
had one page of correction which concerned the incorrect names of our executives for the period under review. The auditor has since corrected the mistake. At the last GCB meeting, our Treasurer was unable to answer a question about a $30,000 receivable because he did not have the necessary information on hand. The simple answer is
that the contractor for the repair of our office had not completed the work at the time of the report been submitted. The work was done shortly after the start of our new financial year.” “The GCB executives today met for its monthly meeting and no discussion about the financial statement took place and no one was authorised to issue a press
statement. What is remarkable about all of this is a statement that was made in the GCB chat group that stated that persons would be un-ceremonially removed or would resign in shame. The financial committee of the GCB has to date failed to meet to accept our report but the board in its wisdom has seem it fit to issue a libelous statement. Both the Treasurer and his Assistant were unaware of the statement along with the two vice presidents of the board and a few other executives. Over the last few months, all suggestions from us have been rejected and all we hear is the word- Noted. The BCB would also like to state that our President never attempted to explain anything about the statements as that was done by our Treasurer Dr Cecil Beharry and his deputy Rovin Bahadur.” “The BCB is therefore totally shocked by this statement along with the
press release since this discussion took place over three weeks ago. We are left to wonder why this unauthorised press release was issued on the same day that a senior executive of the GCB from Demerara had informed the executives that he would inform the media about the happenings within the board. The BCB for over twelve years had led the fight for return to normalcy to Guyana cricket and it pains that the situation has gotten worse. We wish to reassure the Guyanese cricketing public that we are committed to the development of the game across our beloved country and while we can say much more, in the interest of unity, we would hold our peace. BCB President Hilbert Foster would like to express his thanks to the GCB for the chance to serve as a Director of the CWI for one year and wishes Mr Duleep Singh all the best in his new position,” the release concluded.
GMR&SC Quarter Mile Return
Fans satisfied with action
Fans returned to the South Dakota Drag Strip yesterday in their numbers for the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) Quarter Mile Return drag race meet that had over 100 cars registered. Action got underway early and fans were entertained throughout with flamboyant displays from the local daredevils, who were met with good rivalry from the Suriname contingent that showed up, as promised, with a large
number of cars. Although the strip record was not reset (unofficially), there were ominous signs suggesting that it will be at a subsequent meet. Team Trans Pacific Aleeza and Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc (SI&C) Alteeza and Supra; respectively, did not make it to the strip but fans were not short of entertainment. Full results of the day’s action will be published when made available by the GMR&SC.
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Monday March 28, 2022
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Renne’s ton helps visitors to first of two wins on Saturday A MMZ USA Guyana tour
magnificent century from Renaldo Renne spearheaded the visiting MMZ of New York to a commanding fivewicket victory against Enmore on Saturday morning at Enmore ground on the East Coast of Demerara. In their second match of the day at GCB’s ground at LBI, MMZ registered their second win of the day when they beat Young Guns of LBI by 20 runs to give the American side the fifth win in eight matches after losing the first three games. In the morning game, Enmore made 164-7 in 30 overs on the good track and fast outfield with an unbeaten 68 from Vishwanauth Ramlakhan leading way for the home team. Ramlakhan got support from Richard Chatura with 20, Yuvraj Dyal who made 21 and Kellon Carmichael who chipped in with 19.
Alex Algoo has been among the runs for MMZ.
Matthew Lutchena (222) was the most successful
Janet Jagan Memorial School Girls Windball cricket tourney underway Play in the Ministry of Culture Youth & Sport/ National Sports Commission 2022 Windball Cricket Season opening Janet Jagan Memorial School Girls championship got underway on Friday at the National Gymnasium. In results from the action organised by Sports Officer A. Munroe: West Demerara Secondary after been invited to take first strike made 56-3 off their allotted 5overs with Amy Persaud unbeaten on 25. Leonora Secondary replied with 59-1 off 4overs, with Rosalin Samaroo 28 not out and Marisa Balkarran 16. Annandale Secondary
made 69-1, Puja Singh hitting 32, Jahnavi Tularam 23 not out and Mahanie Ramtahul 15. L’Aventure Secondary romped to 70-2 to win with Keira Jack 28 and Akeelah Caesar 14. A solid knock of 42 from Tricia Singh help Vreed en Hoop Secondary to a revenge win over Zeeburg Secondary the 1st runners up team from the 2019 t o u r n a m e n t . Va s a n t i e Kishore and Denicia Singh were unbeaten on 39 and 20 respectively. Zeeburg’s turn in the middle were restricted to 451, Abigail Bennie 20 and (Continued on page 21)
bowler for MMZ who responded with 168-5 in
27.5 overs. Renne, MMZ’s leading run-scorer, stroked an entertaining 100 from 73 balls with four fours and seven sixes, while Alex Algoo got to 32 and Andy Mohamed made 14. In the afternoon encounter on a ‘Beach-like’ ground which has deteriorated in last 12 months, MMZ reached 132 in 24.5 overs before dismissing LBI’s Young Guns for 112 in 24.4 overs. MMZ were led by Alex Algoo who made 32, Randy Boodhu 27 and Troy Mars 27 as Krish Persaud, Satish Jaikarran, Savory and Romel Dowlatram took two wickets each. When the host began their reply, National batter Tevin Imlach (3) was bowled by Ricky Kissoon for the first of his four wickets, while Kemol Savory with 27 run out and Ravindra Samaroo (18) offered some resistance in a losing effort as MMZ won by 20 runs. (Sean Devers)
The students assemble at the start of the event.
Renaldo Renne just after scoring a ton against Enmore on Saturday.