Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

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Thursday March 31, 2022

‘Local content desires should have Contractor bids $10M been built into existing policies’ below engineer's estimate …Professor Thomas says resort to legislation signals poor governance, lack of trust

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he debate over Guyana’s desire to give its people first jump in certain business areas within the oil and gas sector is one that should not be happening since it is expected that any country would give its citizens some type of preference to ensure they benefit fully from their natural resources. The need to make the local content document law to convince citizens that their government has them in mind, is in fact a terrible sign regarding trust between the state and its citizens. This is according to Economist, Professor Clive Thomas who said during the talk show, Politics 101 that Guyana has now placed itself in a position to be challenged for introducing the law that weakens the right to competition. “I believe that Guyana should have never passed any law relating to local content. Once you have a law on the books, you could be taken to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and there you can be challenged for introducing laws that negate the right to competition.” It is for this reason, Thomas offered, that he felt the local right should have been placed into existing policies. “I felt that anything like a local content law should be built into the regulations and procedures of the state.” “But that means, you would have to have a government that has the confidence of the people and the sectors that are engaged in production and

Economist, Professor Clive Thomas says CARICOM is a necessary business platform for Guyana services and professional services and so on.” Thomas continued that this confidence would allow the State to be able to manage local content in a way to give citizens a built-in advance without putting it in writing. Thomas went on to explain that protection of the Guyanese market has to be done by skillfully committed persons that the government would have elected to represent the people. And in the execution of these duties, it would be expected that those elected would also have the confidence of the people to work around regulations, “through informed common consent,” about the way forward. “But that means that the government must have high reputation among its constituents to behave principally…, “Thomas reiterated. “Once they (citizens) begin to doubt your credentials, your honesty; doubt your evenhandedness, your fairness… once the

government degenerates to the point where people feel they only give to their friends… they want to see it written down.” The economist likens the local content dilemma to the transparency issues surrounding the natural resource fund. He said that he does not believe that the right of the government to make decisions on how to invest money in oil and gas should be given to any one or group claiming to more impartial or clairvoyant that the government because they were elected with those responsibilities. “It’s a sign of government’s failure; poor governance that people should expect that there should have an oversight committee to make sure that government spends the money the way it must be sent. This is not the proof of good governance; it’s a consequence of bad governance,” Thomas insisted. The local content matter

in Guyana has attracted attention from neighbouring Caribbean nations (CARICOM), particularly Trinidad and Tobago (TT) where business tycoons in that oil-producing nation now want in on Guyana’s oil and gas fortunes. The TT business people have argued that Guyana’s local content is contentious toward the C A R I C O M Tr e a t y o f Chaguaramas that gives Caribbean people equal rights to work and trade among other things. There is also a debate as to whether Guyana can opt out of the CARICOM agreement. However, on the economical side of the argument, Thomas said that CARICOM remains an important platform for any developing engagement of Guyana and the wider world. Thomas suggested that Guyana’s economy is too small and narrow to get the economies of scale to make it profitable to produce at the level that can compete with imports. “But with the C A R I C O M a n d CARICOM’s protection, we get the opportunity of having a platform on which to build some of these capacities. So to call for the removal of CARICOM single market is very a nonsensical idea because the whole idea is that Guyana by moving into the production of oil and gas and having that capital that if you pursued it, would now move into the category of major exporter to CARICOM instead of being a major importer from CARICOM.

to extend boathouse

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ne of the two contractors vying for the contract to extend the Customs Boat House at Stabroek, bid $10 million lower than the engineer's estimated cost of $48.7 million. This is a project being undertaken by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The companies that submitted bids to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to carry out the works at the boat house are: Memorex Enterprises

with a bid of $43 million and Andre Vincent Construction Services with a bid of $10 million lower at $38 million. The opening of this project occurred on Tuesday at the NPTAB office. Also on Tuesday, the Office of the President received a bid through the NPTAB for the rental of a building to accommodate the Police Complaints Authority. Also bids were opened for the construction of a head office for the Scrap Metal Unit. Below are the companies and their bids:

Guyana Revenue Authority Extension of Customs Boat house, Stabroek, Georgetown.

Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce - Scrap Metal Unit Supply and delivery of three motor vehicles.

Construction of head office of Scrap Metal Unit, National Exhibition Centre.

Guyana Defence Force Procurement of recondition motor vehicles.

(Continued on page 17)

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 31, 2022

PAGE 03

One month later…

Minister Bharrat mum on US$9B Payara Audit Despite time running out on Guyana to conduct the audit into ExxonMobil Corporation (EMC) subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) US$9 billion Payara exploration cost bill - Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, is silent on the government’s progress of auditing and possibly rejecting unreasonable charges if found. Notably, if the two-year deadline as prescribed in the Stabroek Block Agreement, passes and Guyana fails to a u d i t E x x o n M o b i l ’s subsidiary, cost recovery bill, the country has no choice but to allow the oil company to recover US$9B for its Payara Development Project in the Stabroek Block, without making any objection. In fact, Guyana has already failed to audit the Liza 1 and Liza 2 [post-2017 audits], which resulted in the oil company being allowed to recover the sum totaling US$9.5B. Therefore, the Payara audit is the country’s only chance of staving off the possibility of having to pay another multi-billion dollar bill from the American oil giant if unreasonable charges are found for those occurring from 2019 onwards.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat.

Due to the seriousness and importance for Guyana to conduct an audit into the pre-contract spending of the oil company, Kaieteur News had first reached out to Minister Bharrat, on February 25, 2022, in relation to the progress of the audit. During the first interaction over a cellphone call, the Minister noted that

he was in a meeting at the Office of the President, but contact can be made with him later that day [14:00hrs] for an update. At 14:30hrs, this publication made several calls to the Minister but all went unanswered. As such, Kaieteur News then contacted Minister Bharrat via WhatsApp. That message read, “Good

Guyana/Barbados food terminal closer to realisation The sod turning ceremony for the new Guyana/Barbados food terminal in Barbados will soon take place, President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced. President Ali said the leadership of both countries has already expressed “our unwavering commitment to the removal of every barrier that will prevent trade between the two countries.” Guyana and Barbados are working to create a joint tourism product, linking the two countries as a common market and package. “Similar discussions are ongoing with Antigua, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and the rest of the region so that we prepare, not only the production and productive level of the farms and farmers in Guyana, but we also work on the low hanging fruit of the resale market,” the President

President Irfaan Ali stated. According to Barbados’ Government Information Service, the seven acres of land earmarked for the construction of the food terminal at Lears, St. Michael, will have a

purpose-built facility to accommodate about 40 containers at any time; a reservoir holding 20 million gallons of water, and land for crop production. Heads of Government in CARICOM have all agreed that steps need to be taken to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25 percent by 2025. President Ali said the target is one without a political or social agenda, but can only be done if governments, the farmers and the private sector all work together and embrace the vision. Already, in Guyana, the government has embarked on a number of initiatives (Continued on page 16)

afternoon Minister Bharrat, this is [name provided], a reporter with Kaieteur News. I contacted you earlier in relation to an update on the auditing of the US$9B Payara project. Is the update available?” The Minister responded shortly after stating: “Will ask my PR people to do a short release.” Kaieteur News then responded to the Minister by inquiring if the press statement will be released on that date. However, the Minister did not confirm or deny if the statement will be available on that date but replied, “working on it,” and Kaieteur News responded “okay thank you.” However, on that day, no press release on the audit was provided by the Minister nor did the Minister respond. As such, at 09:33hrs on February 28, 2022, this media house contacted the Minister again. That message read, “Good morning Minister Bharrat, this is [name provided], a reporter with Kaieteur News. I’m just checking back on the press release you had promised in relation to the update on the auditing of the US$9B Payara project.” Minister Bharrat responded at 21:17hrs. In his first message, he said “ok” and the second message was a document. Kaieteur News responded, “thank you” to which the Minister said, “Look at this” and “And I will provide the information later.” The document that the Minister had sent was not on the US$9B Payara Audit but in fact, a press statement dated February 28, 2022, by ExxonMobil Guyana on oil spill insurance. This media house then responded to the Minister by informing him that this publication has already read the document

since earlier that day. Minister Bharrat replied, “Ok” and Kaieteur News replied, “Will the update on the audit of the Payara project be provided?” The Minister then replied, “Yes…” and as such, this publication asked, “Anytime soon?” to which the Minister never responded. O n We d n e s d a y afternoon, one month and five days since Kaieteur News first reached out to the Minister, this publication contacted the Minister via WhatsApp and stated, “Good afternoon Minister Bharat, this is [name provided], a reporter with Kaieteur News. It has been more than a month since you promised a press release on the update on the auditing of the US$9B Payara project.” Minister Bharrat responded shortly after saying, “Sorry…got caught up with other matters,” Kaieteur News replied, “Can you say when will the update be provided?” but at the time of writing, the Minister has not responded nor has he provided an update on the US$9B Payara Audit. Moreover, on January 24, 2022, Minister Bharrat had disclosed to the National Assembly that under the APNU+AFC regime, limited work was done on the audit of the US$460M precontract costs ExxonMobil incurred from 1999 to 2017. The Minister had described the extent of the work done as “alarming” while noting that efforts are currently underway to iron out some of the questionable details uncovered with ExxonMobil. The Minister’s response was noted as part of a series of written responses to questions posed by Opposition Member, David Patterson regarding the state of the audit, which had commenced in 2019 after

being awarded to British firm, IHS Markit – the contract cost to conduct the audit is US$460M. It was reported that the Minister responded to Patterson’s query by saying, “The Government of Guyana, when we took office was alarmed at the limited work done in this regard by the previous administration and immediately commenced with international consultants and local agencies to have a number of shortcomings addressed.” He then added, “Currently, the government is working to answer every questionable detail with the operator and the auditor to ensure that all expenditures are justifiable and accounted for as per the terms of the agreement.” Notably, during a 2021 press engagement, Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo had said that the government is disappointed that it has not been able to push through with the critical post-2017 audits. Expounding further, the Vice President had said, “We have been very disappointed that we have not been able to select a group to do the audit of the post-2017 expenditure by Exxon. The reason is that we didn’t have strong local content. We had two groups, two local groups that came in but they were not strong enough. We want to build the capacity in Guyana to do this audit. We think that our people have enormous skills, forensic skills and auditing capacity.” He noted too, “…we’re looking to see if we can’t have an arrangement where we have a consortium of our local people to come together to do part of this work while working alongside an international group…”

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Thursday March 31, 2022

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

Opposition and Oil Fund Law

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e cannot say that we know what the coalition opposition is up to, especially its main segment the PNC, with this countrys Natural Resources Fund (NRF) Law. We are not really sure, and we dont think that Guyana is also, about where the PNC stands with this NRF Law. For sure, its top people have made a lot of noise intended to be reassuring. The noise from the PNC has been largely about what leaders in the PPP/C Government have done through early parliamentary arrangements for the use of this enticing oil money. And it has been about how they, the PNC, intend to bring a stop to what many Guyanese believe are Government plans to raid this oil fund for its own corrupt purposes. The problem is that the PNC has done nothing. The ranking people in the major opposition party have done nothing but make a lot of what citizens call fat talk about this NRF Law. How they are terribly unhappy with where they see this oil money ending up, due to the dirty tricks that Government leaders have in mind. How they are mad, and they will not take any more of the Governments nonsense, and that they will do something about it. How they will challenge the PPP/C Government in court to thwart its leaders planned piracies with this tempting oil money. They have done nothing; nothing of substance, nothing that speaks to energy and intensity, even urgency. But leaders in the PNC keep talking up a storm. That is the only thing they have done: talked and talked, and nothing else. They have talked about filing a lawsuit. That talk is so old that it qualifies for a pension, so ancient it is; perhaps, even to be put in an old peoples home, and left there to reminisce about what was desired to be done, should have been done, but was never done. This is how pathetic leaders in the PNC come across with their fervently promised challenges (so-called, we believe until the proof surfaces) to this Oil Fund Law in court. They have gone nowhere, and seemingly done nothing about keeping their commitments. For context, the NRF Bill was rammed down the throats of Guyanese when it was hustled through, like some skilled, anxious thief operating under the cover of thick darkness, in the nations parliament. This was during the heart of the long December Christmas Season, of all times. When citizens of this country were preoccupied with celebrating the holidays with zeal and zest, slimy leaders in the PPP/C Government saw it fit, found it mandatory, to race forward with this most important of oil fund Bill and hurry it into the law of the land. If anyone wanted any indication, had any remaining doubts, about the criminal visions of PPP/C leaders in the Government, they got it. They were presented with evidence of the self-serving visions of Government leaders, through their actions and arrangements in parliament developments. What kind of human beings conduct themselves in this manner, and during Christmas time, when the nation is not paying the fullest attention! To its credit, the coalition opposition kicked up a stink in parliament, and the PNC was in the thick of the fierce battle that was waged against the passage of that clever, possibly crooked, NRF Bill. The opposition lost that stormy engagement in parliament, but it made a powerful promise, and as early as January of this year, which is almost three months ago. It was that they, the opposition, were going to take this new law before the court. But, as we said earlier, the opposition PNC has done nothing since then, other than talk and hedge. Its senior people have talked about highly qualified attorneys going carefully through the preparatory stages, and how the time is being carefully taken to get the legal challenge just right. The problem is that they continue this way, and when they are done, the oil money will be done, too. If the PNC opposition is serious, it needs to get off its throne (toilet bowl) and get moving to the court right now. Cut the nonsense out and get moving now with the suit.

A gimmick to mask the creeping dictatorship DEAR EDITOR, On Monday, I learnt quite by accident that there was a public consultation sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at the Cara Lodge. As a concerned citizen, I turned up to hear all sides of the story. There were presentations by the EPA and Ministry of Public Infrastructure. Officers did their best to ensure that they did not anger the political bosses. The presentation by Ms. Simone Mangal-Joly was thorough and of an extremely high standard. Unhappily, the Officers in their response to her presen-

tation and questions asked by David Patterson seem to trivialise the concerns expressed and I recommend to all and sundry that they read Kaieteur News Editorial of Wednesday, March 30, 2022. But Dear Editor, I am concerned for my country that along with others, we still hope to live in a country where integrity and professionalism can prevail. I felt a sense of hopelessness however, since it is crystal clear that we are dealing with a government that whether something is right or wrong, what they determine is correct. When I entered the Cara Lodge Room, minutes before the time announced to begin

the session, I was surprised that the venue identified could not accommodate the number of persons expected at a Public Consultation and I wish to emphasize “Public” on a matter of importance of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. When the session began, I checked there were just about thirty-two chairs, and while the session was going on, there were eight empty chairs. This means that the attendance was just about two dozen persons and this included the EPA and Ministry of Public Works staff. Two persons including one individual via Zoom who lives in the area where the bridge is expected to be

located on the East Bank of Demerara refuted the claim by one of the staff who said they had consulted persons in that area. It is claimed from all that we are seeing and hearing that the EPA is no more than the hand-maiden of the powers that be. This shattered to bits this whole idea of Guyana being a democracy. Tuesdays exercise in a small room at Cara Lodge was merely a gimmick to mask the creeping dictatorship, which we are now in and the question is, “Was this public consultation really intended for the public?” Regards, Hamilton Green

We stand in full support of the policewoman DEAR EDITOR, We write to condemn the actions of Mr. Nirvan Singh, who allegedly slapped, spat upon and racially insulted a Black woman and police constable who was on duty at the home of his father, the former Chancellor of the Judiciary. Sadly, this disgusting incident tells us much about how power works in our society. This is about cowardice and bullyism. It is about race and gender but it is also about class. Given the allegations,

one can only conclude that Mr. Nirvan Singh harbours these feelings towards Black people a lot of true feelings come out in anger. But he is not a foolish man. He allegedly verbally and physically abused a Black female police constable because he figured that he could get away with it. He could chase her out of his fathers yard and down the road because in his eyes, she is ordinary people, she does not matter and she cannot challenge him. Will we let this abuse of

power stand? Are the Honourable members of the Bar embarrassed by this behaviour, enough to speak out and take a stand against one of their own? Is it because this is a woman who has been abused by a professional man that the police are not hastening to close ranks in her protection, even though she is supposedly one of them? Given that the reported behaviour is criminal, where is the police investigation and where are the charges against

Mr. Nirvan Singh? We stand in full support of the policewoman who came forward, and we applaud the lawyer who is taking her case on. If she had not taken this courageous stand to speak out, this would have been swept under the carpet. Sincerely, Susan Collymore Karen de Souza Halima Khan Joy Marcus Alissa Trotz Wintress White For Red Thread

Address the Message; don’t attack the messenger DEAR EDITOR, References to letters on alcohol and Hindu religious events. The messenger did not associate rum drinking with Hindu religious observance. Rather, he points out a problem. Hindu leaders have opted to attack the messenger rather than find a solution to the message of alcohol abuse and violence at Hindu events? Responding that alcohol is also drunk at events of other faiths is not a solution to the problem afflicting Hindus. Agreed that the messengers approach was not subtle. It is an issue of form over substance. His message was very strong. Also, his tone was very harsh, writing in anger and appealing to Hindu leaders to address the problem. However, he was factual. Why condemn him when the (illegal) sellers of alcohol should be assailed and pros-

ecuted? Alcohol abuse has caused compounded problems for Hindus and Indians in general. In addition to the enormous physical and emotional tolls, the problems also have led to an unfortunate stereotype that has burdened Hindus and the Indian population in general. This stereotype has perpetuated the image that Indian people are afflicted with alcohol problems or that once they have a religious function, alcohol will be served. Other groups and the public at large dont focus on the vast number of people who dont drink and who maintain sober and productive lives. They dont pay attention to religious events where no alcohol was found (as per my observance albeit more Islamic and Christian than Hindu functions). I have not done a study on levels of consumption by

religion, race, age or community. So I cant comment on alcohol use among the religious groups. What I observed in my travels around Guyana, especially during religious events, alcoholism is a serious problem as the messenger noted. Even the young are imbibing. Alcoholism affects all groups and it behooves religious leader, the government, community leaders, and respected elders (educators) to address the problem. In my observations in travels around the country, alcoholism is a widespread problem at virtually all religious events (weddings of all denominations and post religious service of all faiths) held away from a place of worship (church, masjid, temple). Also, I found alcoholism to be more prevalent at Hindu events than those of Islamic or Christian functions. Attendees at Islamic and

Christian events seemed to display greater reverence and respect for spiritual services. But overall, people dont seem to have much regard or respect for religious events. Once held around the home or catering hall, rum was present. And once rum is present, there would be violence. And violence often resulted in a loss of life (lives). Alcohol causes people to lose their mental faculty and to engage in violence. I read of so many celebrations or religious events where people have lost their lives violently or suffered bodily harm attackers and/or victims. I have not studied why there was a need to consume alcohol during religious events. I can understand and excuse people imbibing at a wedding after the religious service. It is a joyous (Continued on page 5)

Thursday March 31, 2022

Reciprocity is not racism DEAR EDITOR, Guyanese were disgusted by the recent conduct of an Indian attorney, who allegedly spat on and called a Black policewoman a racial slur. There was widespread condemnation by almost everyone. However, the opposition and their “lunatic fringe” social media supporters never let a tragic situation go to waste. Instantly, they sought to highlight the tragic situation

through the prism of racism. Many sought to impugn the entire Indian race and instead showed their own racism, by using the racial epithet “trench crapos.” As an Indian who does business at Bourda Market, I have been robbed and called racial slurs several times by Black perpetrators. There were never any instant outcry and rebuke of an entire race as we are now observing. One has to only pick up

Address the Message... From page 4 and celebratory occasion. But why the need to consume alcohol as though it would run out and consume alcohol into drunken stupor. The high prevalence of alcohol use and its consequences may be attributed to a number of factors, including the influence of the European (British and Portuguese) who made large amounts of alcohol available to freed slaves and indentured labourers, as well as social factors. Efforts to prevent and treat alcohol problems may be effective if one were to explain its consequences at religious events and health clinics in addition to schools. Alcohol problems also may be prevented through policies regulating the sale and use of alcohol. Alcohol has a severe impact on the health of consumers, their families, and communities. It leads to heart disease, cancer, gastrointestinal problems, pneumonia, dental

problems, diabetes, hearing, vision problems, fetal syndrome, unintentional injuries, risky behaviours, temporary loss of senses, school dropout, depression and other mental health disorders. The government should make funding available for academics to study the problem of alcoholism and to recommend programmes to address the problem. Law enforcement should also address the illegal serving (sale) of alcohol especially at weddings and crack down confiscating the moveable bars (liquor included) and arresting the owner as well as the bartender. More importantly, hosts of religious events should not encourage or entertain drinking and summon the police to enforce the law if they observe such occurrences. Instead of going after the messenger, religious leaders should address the scourge of alcoholism. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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the daily newspapers or watch the news to observe the widespread crimes that are perpetuated by one specific race on to another. Many law-abiding citizens are now asking, is it not time that the government keep a daily spreadsheet of all crimes that are committed by each respective race in Guyana? Asking for reciprocity in tracking of racial crimes is not racism. Respectively submitted, Chitrakha Persaud

Aubrey Norton’s Sophia Declaration DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Aubrey Norton utilised his inaugural address to the General Council of the PNCR at Sophia, Georgetown, by declaring, among other things, the creation of a new image for the PNCR mainly through the embrace of democracy. He cited the recent PNCR internal elections where he boasted that it was free and fair, but he could not say the same for the PPP/C internal elections. If this is the PNCR’s new approach to poli-

The issue is not the principle but who was selected DEAR EDITOR, The ‘Doctrine of Necessity’ principle was invoked in the assignment of responsibility, in an acting capacity, of top cop, it was explained. The issue is not the selection of principle used in arriving at the decision to fill the void in order to ensure

smooth continuity of operations. The issue lies in who was selected. It should be explained, for the sake of clarity, why it was necessary to make the selection done as opposed to the next in line? Shamshun Mohamed

Enforce the rules and enact legislation on rum drinking and loud music DEAR EDITOR, The issue of rum drinking and loud music in Guyana is more of an evolved culture in all of our society. Its no doubt that Jamaican dub songs lyrics influence and promote drugs consumption and Trinidadian chutney songs glorify rum drinking to the detriment of society. So instead of targeting SanatanaHindu Dharma and its leaders for this degradation and mayhem, we should be soliciting the relevant authorities to remedy these ills associated with this rum drinking and loud music culture. Accordingly, further legislation(s) should be passed as follows: 1) Limit the number of liquor licences granted to op-

erate rum shops, clubs and pubs in communities. 2) Shorten the opening/ closing hours of these facilities. 3) Ban drinking of alcoholic beverages in public and open places. 4) Strict age limit for purchasing alcoholic beverages. 5) Increase Excise Tax rate on alcoholic beverages to 100 percent. Of course, these

measures shall act as a deterrent in some way or the other… And, finally Id like to end with a quote from Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) When every man lives without Law every man lives without Freedom. Truly yours, Paul Ramrattan

tics, they should be applauded for choosing to walk on the democratic path. But what lesson(s) could one draw from PNCR s history? The claim that the PNCR’s last internal election was free and fair, is no guarantee that their participation, along with other political parties, in competitive elections at the regional and national levels, will necessarily follow the same track. Having extolled democracy, Mr. Norton later debased it when he called for the removal of the independent GECOM Chair, Justice Claudette Singh, on an allegation of bias. The PNCR is trapped by their own history. It also reveals how they have flouted electoral and constitutional laws such as making the unilateral appointment of the GECOM Chair (10/19/ 2017) and failing to step down from power consequent to the successful passage of the No Confidence Motion (12/21/

2018). Nortons presentation was also aimed “to restore the party to the glorious days of Forbes Burnham....” He lamented the condition of the PNCR party under David Granger’s leadership: “I have inherited a party that has four categories of workers: guards, drivers, clerks and handymen.” (Demerara Waves (3/ 11/2022). The urgent need for image building is also suggested by former PNCR leader Mr. David Granger who had earlier called for the establishment of a new political culture. He stated: “Some persons [PNCR operatives] ...were elected to office not to satisfy their private hunger for wealth or their personal passion for power but to serve the people who they represented. The Party has a sad record of revolt.” (Demerara Waves 12/18/2021). Notwithstanding (Continued on page 6)

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When a person is made to act as Commissioner that person is accorded all the privileges and immunities DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me space in your newspaper to correct some inaccuracies contained in the “Peeping Tom” column of Tuesday, March 29, 2022 captioned “Nothing improper about someone performing the functions of Commissioner of Police”. First, the caption is correct, nothing is wrong with someone performing the functions of Commissioner of Police. I did so on two occasions when the then Commissioner was on duty overseas and I was the next senior person to him. A clear distinction has to be made between a person performing the functions of Commissioner and a person acting in that capacity. (I will explain later). “Peeping Tom” stated that when Commissioner James proceeded on pre-retirement leave in August 2020 (James actually proceeded on July 31, 2020) “Hoppie could not have been immediately appointed in August 2020 as acting Commissioner or Commissioner because it was not until April 2021 that a vacancy existed in the office of Commissioner”. That is correct. “Peeping Tom” goes on to say that, “Hoppie could not have subsequently been appointed as acting Commissioner of Police or Commissioner of Police because of the problems with the appointment of a Police Service Commission”. That statement is totally inaccurate. When the office of Commissioner became vacant on April 1, 2021, there was in place a Po-

lice Service Commission of which I was the Chairman. There was also a Leader of the Opposition. It therefore meant that there was nothing preventing the President from initiating the constitutional process to appoint someone either to act as Commissioner or to the substantive position. “Peeping Tom” asserts “that after Seelall Persaud was sent on leave, David Ramnarine performed the functions of Commissioner. The media immediately began to refer to him as acting Commissioner but legally, he was merely performing the functions of Commissioner. It was afterwards that he was appointed as acting Commissioner of Police following formal consultations between President David Granger and the then Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, and the President and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission”. This statement is a gross inaccuracy. David Ramnarine was never appointed to act as Commissioner. There was never any consultation between President David Granger and the Leader of the Opposition Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and the President and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission in relation to the appointment of someone to replace Commissioner Seelall Persaud, either in an acting or substantive capacity. In fact, when Mr. Ramnarine was performing the functions of Commissioner in the absence of Commissioner Persaud on pre-retirement leave, there was no Police Service Commission.

The consultation by the President to fill the vacancies of Commissioner following the retirement of Commissioner Persaud, and Deputy Commissioners took place in August 2018 when I was the Chairman of the Police Service Commission. Mr. Ramnarine continued to perform the functions of Commissioner of Police until the appointment of Leslie James in August 2018. It is further stated by “Peeping Tom” “it is inconceivable that the Constitution and the law would allow for a situation to exist in which the Police Force would not have someone to head its operations. As such, there is nothing improper about the appointment of someone to perform the functions of Commissioner. That person, however, cannot be legally be (sic) deemed as the acting Commissioner. Such an appointment, if necessary, must await formal consultations, which will be done as soon as Parliament settles the business of the nominees to the Police Service Commission and overcomes the imbroglio surrounding the appointment of a Leader of the Opposition”. I totally agree with this aspect of the column. I find it contradictory for “Peeping Tom” to say that there is “therefore no controversy brewing about Mr. Hickens appointment. He can be asked to perform the functions of Commissioner of Police until such time as he is appointed either as acting Commissioner of Police or Commissioner of Police”. Clifton Hicken is seen in

photographs released by the Police wearing the badge of rank of Commissioner of Police. That indicates that he is not carrying out the functions of Commissioner of Police. He is either acting Commissioner of Police or Commissioner of Police. According to “Peeping Tom” that is illegal. I fully agree that it is. I earlier stated that there is a big difference between a person carrying out the functions of the Commissioner of Police and a person acting in that capacity. Let me explain. When a person is carrying out the functions of the Commissioner of Police that person continues to wear the badge of rank of his/her substantive rank. Nigel Hoppie carried out the functions of Commissioner for about 20 months. During that time, he correctly wore the badge of his substantive rank “Deputy Commissioner”. David Ramnarine, and others before him, did likewise when they carried out the functions of Commissioner. A persons carrying out the functions of Commissioner is not made to take an Oath, nor is he given any Instrument. When a person is made to act as Commissioner that person is accorded all the privileges and immunities of the rank of Commissioner. He is made to take the appropriate Oath of Office and is given the necessary Instrument of the office. Paul Slowe CCH, DSM, Assistant Commissioner of Police Rtd, Former Chairman Police Service Commission

Thursday March 31, 2022

Aubrey Norton’s... From page 5 this perspective, a more plausible motive for creating a new image of the PNCR, lies in the post-2020 election saga when PNCR-aligned GECOM executive staff attempted to stage an electoral heist; a process that was elegantly described by the Head of the OAS observer mission, former Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding: “I have never seen a more transparent effort to alter the results of an election.” (SN: 3/14/ 2020). It should be noted that the OAS observer team withdrew with disgust after Clairmont Mingo made a second contested declaration of results for region 4. The EU team also withdrew citing COVID-19 as their pretext. In addition, all the western diplomatic missions, the international observer teams (Commonwealth, European Union, Carter Center, Commonwealth) were appalled at the PNCRs post-election shenanigans and were also bewildered when the PNCR had failed to produce their SoPs. Not receiving support for their claim of electoral irregularities from any country during the five months’ election fiasco and after, PNCRs operatives became belligerent and began a campaign to vilify the GECOM Chair, diplomats, Caribbean Leaders including Mia Mottley of Barbados and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This action led to the isolation of the PNCR. Norton, therefore, had no choice but to engage in damage control and to present a new image of his party, as well as, to reach out to diplomats and regional

leaders. In trying to create a new image, however, Mr. Norton believes that his first building block is to blast the PPP/ C government with allegations of corruption, race discrimination, rigging, incompetence, all of which are not verifiable empirically. A sound PNCR image cannot be built upon this negative posture; instead, it must be built upon the partys clear vision, which unfortunately, was not well articulated and defined, and which had many components that are already being implemented by the PPP/C. Further undermining his image building drive, was his astonishing claim that the 2020 elections were rigged by the PPP/C. But he failed to say how an election machinery that was conducted by a PNCR-aligned GECOM executive body could have allowed the opposition PPP/C to rig the election? How were the PPP/C operatives able to avoid the “eagle” eyes of the PNCRs polling staff and the numerous observer teams scrutiny? The political landscape has become extremely competitive. No one ethnic group is dominant. All political parties know that the grip of race, which has historically played a huge role on determining voting preference, is gradually fading and is being replaced with issues defined by logic, reason, and evidence. In the circumstances, political parties that articulate a clear vision and generate better policy and programme choices will correspondingly increase their chance of electoral success. Dr. Tara Singh

T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . Room for civil society N . . . T U T L N N T U U L N L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N T U L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . NT LUNT...B NT...BLU N U L B . . B . U . . T L . N T B . . U N . L N T B U N . . L . U T L B . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L B U UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . LU ...BLUNT LUNT...B NT...BL T B U . . L N . T B BLU T...BLUN BLUNT... UNT...B . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B BBLU T...BLUN BLUNT... ...BLU . T . N . N T T U L U L N L B U T...BLU U B . L . N . B T . . . N T U N N N L U U U B L . L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Thursday March 31, 2022

Kaieteur News

No government or elected body is answerable to itself. Civil society makes up citizenry from all walks of life. They ask the hard questions that ensure politicians keep to the straight and narrow. Civil society is generally the group that will conduct the peer-review assessments that lets citizens know what their leaders have been up to. It is their job to be informed and to keep others informed. So, when a country votes a government in place, it expects that government will respect and provide space for the concerns of civil society.

It expects that civil society will not be shut out from information classified as valuable, while the majority of citizenry sits ignorantly and with mistrust.

The Guyana Government cannot use confidentiality and value to shut citizens out on information that ultimately determines their future, that of their children, future generations as well as that of the country. The government of the day does not have the full confidence of all the people and is not afforded the luxury of leading without oversight.

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Thursday March 31, 2022

$1M reward offer for info on missing man

Missing Ricardo Rockey DeFrance

A reward of $1M is being offered by the relatives of a man who mysteriously disappeared from his Lot 57 Leopold Street, Georgetown home some two years ago. The missing man has been identified as Ricardo Rocky DeFrance who was 36-years-old at the time he reportedly went missing. He was last seen in January 2020, by his landlord who

owns a restaurant in the area. DeFrance was an American Citizen but was deported to Guyana at the age of 17 and over time had developed a drug addiction problem. To take him off the streets, his relatives, all of whom live overseas, made a decision in 2019 to contract his landlord to take care of him. Speaking with Kaieteur News on Tuesday, his sister,

Sophia DeFrance, said that they paid his landlord to provide meals for him and for the room where he slept for one year. DeFrance would make contact with them regularly but coming to the end of that year, they lost contact with him. They began to query but no one knew where he was. The landlord too told them that he last saw DeFrance in January 2020. A report has been lodged with police but

to date, they have been unable to locate DeFrance. Recently, they have been receiving rumours that DeFrance was murdered but police have been unable to confirm these reports. The family has now decided to offer a reward of $1M to anyone who might know of his whereabouts. Contact can be made with the nearest police station or with family members on +1 (347)-6666210.

Review of 2017 Audit report…

Self-employed persons continue to default on taxes The contribution of taxes from the self-employed does not seem to represent what can be considered fair and this is reflected in the Auditor General 2017 report. According to the report, over the years, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has experienced difficulties in having delinquent selfemployed persons comply with the requirements of the Income Tax Act. As at 31 December 2017, there were 105,522 active registered self-employed persons in the revenue database of which only 18,351 persons or 17% of the active registrants filed returns. Nevertheless, the report said the total income tax collected from selfemployed taxpayers for the period January to December 2017 amounted to $4.9 billion. In the report, Head of the Authority, Godfrey Statia had acknowledged the issue. In light of the number of selfemployed taxpayers not filing returns and the limited resources at the disposal of GRA, Statia noted that the Authority has adopted a risk management approach to prioritise the high risk taxpayers with great revenue implications. He noted that the Guyana Revenue Authority issues demand notices to defaulting self-employed taxpayers on a continuous basis and in addition, raises assessments in the absence of the returns. According to GRA boss, the number of demands notices issued during 2017 amounted to 31,091 and 22,031 in 2018. In addition, two cases were referred for legal action to be taken for failure to submit tax returns. The Audit Office had recommended that the Authority pursue more forcefully all possible avenues to have delinquent

GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia. self-employed persons comply with the requirements of the Income Tax Act with a view of maximising revenue collections. The country’s tax system allows for self-assessment and voluntary compliance and it is estimated that 98 percent of all taxes collected by the Authority is through voluntary compliance. Though not its only role, Statia has said in a previous statement that it is important for the taxpaying public to view taxation as an investment in one’s country and its development and progress. Taxes, he said, must be seen as a social contract between the taxpayer, the government and the Authority. “The Authority only administers the laws. Its mission is to promote compliance with Guyana’s tax, trade and border laws and regulations through education, quality of service and responsible enforcement, thereby contributing to the economic and social wellbeing of the people of Guyana,” said Statia. According to the Tax Boss, the GRA’s goal is to provide the best possible service at an affordable cost, be fair and respectful to the tax-paying public, manage its resources effectively and economically and be responsive and committed to the improvement of its service.

Thursday March 31, 2022

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Kaieteur News

Post mortem on Burnham’s death The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has brought back memories of the once powerful Soviet empire. Guyana had enjoyed friendly relations with the Soviet Union (USSR), so much so that when the former President Forbes Burnham died, his body was shuttled to the USSR to be preserved for perpetuity. The Russians are considered as experts in embalming. It was to them that the North Korea reverted to preserve the remains of both its Founder Leader Kim Il Sung and his son Leader, Kim Jong Il. Burnham died at the age of 62. Had he been alive today he would have been 97 years old. Mystery and intrigue surrounded the death and burial of Forbes Burnham. It has long been rumoured that the body which was returned was a dummy and not that of Burnham. It was said that what came back to Guyana was a wax model made in Madame Toussaint’s museum in England. However, no evidence whatsoever was ever provided to establish that this was indeed the case. One unconfirmed report had stated that Burnham’s body was so badly deteriorated en route to the Soviet Union that it had to be buried in England. Forbes Burnham is perhaps the only leader in the world to have been buried twice. He was buried days after his death and again one year later when his body was returned from the Soviet Union where it was sent to be preserved. The then ruling PNC government had shipped the body off to the Soviet Union

to be embalmed. The PNC wanted to make Burnham a political God. The party wanted him larger than life and in the same category as Mao Tse Tung of China and Lenin of the Soviet Union, whose bodies were embalmed and put o n p e r m a n e n t d i s p l a y. Burnham would have been proud of what the PNC government did. The party wanted to elevate him to the status of a God and so no sooner was he buried, the mourners were chased out of the Botanic Gardens where his body was laid to rest. Burnham’s body was retrieved from his tomb and smuggled back to the funeral parlour. At the time Guyana had a great deal of power outages. There were reports circulating that the long funeral service which the PNC organised to eulogise Burnham had caused deterioration of the body. There were also suggestions that Burnham’s remains further deteriorated because of a power outage at the place where it was being held prior to it being shipped to the Soviet Union. The theory about the deterioration of the body after the funeral must be examined in the context of the long time that the body was in the Soviet Union. Burnham died in August1985 but his alleged remains were not returned to Guyana until the following year. December 1986. If the body had in fact deteriorated en route to the USSR, the Soviets would not have kept it so long. There is another view that body never reached the

Soviet Union. They question why having gone to so much trouble to preserve Burnham, why the government would bury him. One possible explanation was the changing ideological stance of Desmond Hoyte who, it was said, was not keen to have the presence of Burnham hanging over his presidency. Burnham was buried a second time after it was said that his family agreed that he should be buried in keeping respect for the sensitivities of the Guyanese people. If his burial was shrouded in controversy, so was his death. Burnham died on the operating table while undergoing surgery at the Georgetown Hospital. Burnham had gone for a throat operation. Cuba had flown in two specialists for the operation. Burnham never woke up from the anesthesia. It is said that his heart gave out. This was in August of 1985. Did Burnham have a heart condition? The United States had received reports that in 1977, Burnham had suffered a heart attack. US embassy sources had reported that he missed a major address to the nation that year. When he was seen months later by an embassy official at his home in Belfield, he seemed far thinner. Declassified documents also reveal that a Trinidadian doctor had told US embassy sources in Guyana that Burnham had throat cancer. Burnham was a known chain smoker. The Guyana government has never revealed why

Dem Boys Seh…

Some People gat a Severe Hearing Prablem Clean de wax out yuh ears, deh gat a man pon a radio station… no name, no warrant. Like de man gat a hearing problem. When yuh call in, he does never understand wat yuh saying and does gat to ask yuh fuh repeat wah yuh sehing over and over again. Dem boys wan know if de radio station nah realise de man gat a hearing prablem. De man need a hearing aid. De only problem is even when he hear yuh, he can’t understand wat yuh talking. It remind dem boys when dem grannie did buy a hearing aid, she tell dem boys, “It is state of de art. It costs US$500.” Dem boys ask

she, “What kind is it? She answer, “Is ten o’clock.” Sometimes playing deaf does gat its advantages. A old man, just like de announcer, had a severe hearing problem. So he guh to de doctor fuh get a hearing aid. After a month, he guh back fuh a checkup. De doctor ask he how things going now dat he can hear. De doctor ask he wat he friends and family saying. De man tell de doctor how he didn’t tell anybody bout he hearing aid. He tell de doctor, “I just sit around and listen to their conversations. I’ve changed my Will three times already!” But sometimes wat goes around comes

around. Like de man wah bin suspect dat he wife gat a hearing problem. He decide fuh test she hearing. He guh 20 feet behind she and shout, “Can you hear me?” He did not hear she answer. So he guh 10 feet behind she and shout, “Can you hear me now?” Again, he ain’t hear no reply. So he guh five feet behind she and ask, “Can you hear me now?’ Yet, again he nah hear no reply. So he put he face next to she and ask, “Can you hear me now?” De wife turn to he and seh, “Fuh de fourth time, I am telling you ‘yes’.” Talk half. Leff half.

throat surgery was necessary and if Burnham did suffer from cancer. What was said was that Burnham died a pauper and that the government had

waived his estate duties. (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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Thursday March 31, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Does this project by the police make sense? Since December last year, directly outside my home on the Railway Embankment, at 7:30 AM, I see the traffic ranks in a well coordinated exercise stopping motorcycles only and requesting to see their document. The police have a canter trunk and dozens of defaulting owners have their bikes taken away. I am told that the action is not confined to the Railway embankment but many other areas in the city like the Square of the Revolution (which revolution President Burnham was talking about when he named it as such?) What is wrong with this

exercise? One is that, it should not be done at the rush hour because it affects the free flow of traffic. Think of a bank employee who is late in an institution where it takes hours to be served. Secondly, given the number of owners who I see that have their stuff taken away, it means that many workers and schoolchildren will be late. Thirdly, what papers are so crucial that if you don’t have them your property has to be taken away? Fourthly, in morning traffic, do you need six ranks to conduct each exercise? So I drove up and asked one of the ranks if there are ticketable offences for motorcyclists. He said yes but when I stopped in my car, I held up traffic so I moved on. There is an irritating dimension about this exercise. Many schoolchildren and people being taken to work as

pillion riders are left stranded. Obviously, this would happen because the operation occurs in the mornings when children are going to school and people are off to work. Another question is whether the time of day is appropriate. Most motorcyclists owned by “dubious” people do not come on the roadways so early in the mornings. This exercise begins from about 7:30 and its net catches most honest people going to work who may be delinquent with one of the required documents. In the evenings is when the “dubious” motorbike owners come out to play. Over the past three years, a certain section of the motorcycle community has modified their exhaust system to create unbearable noise on the roadways; they perform mostly in the late

hours of the night. Why isn’t there a decision to make this adjustment illegal? The police have issued an edict that certain types of emblazonment on minibuses are not allowed. Why can’t they stop the exhaust modification? The tampering with the exhaust system achieves one effect and one only – it increases the volume of the sound. That noise disturbs your sleep and it can be heard almost half a mile away. And no air-conditioning system can lessen that noise. What logic is there to this action? You change your exhaust so it can make more noise. Is that rational thinking? I can understand people restructuring their engine to achieve greater speed but why would you want your bike or car to make more noise? On Sunday evenings, the congregation can be seen in the compound of MovieTowne. The security ranks at MovieTowne are afraid to confront these riders because they react violently. From what I have

seen, not one of them wears a helmet. The logic is simple. These fun-riders who use the streets as a playground do not come out in the Frederick Kissoon morning hours. They I look out of my window, do their thing in the and I wonder what papers are nights and on weekends. So the police are not missing from these riders going to catch them if they that should cause their bikes patrol the streets early in the to be taken away from them? And think of the mornings. The people the police bureaucratic hassles one has will arrest are owners who to go through to replace are taking spouses to work those papers. My driver’s licence is and children to school. All schools are to be opened next nearing expiration, and I fear month, I guess to be having to go through the followed shortly by UG and GRA jungle. For months Cyril Potter College. So now, my landlines are not larger numbers will be working and I fear going affected by this morning through the nightmare with GTT to get them fixed. Do project of the Police Force. Interestingly, there was a people need that kind of news item in this newspaper hassle for simple things like about the emphasis the f i x i n g a p h o n e ? C a n Attorney-General has placed somebody fix my landlines on the issuance of tickets. without creating a headache (The views The AG’s position is timely for me? b e c a u s e t o o m a n y expressed in this article are motorcycles are being taken those of the author and do away in these morning not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.) exercises by traffic ranks.

Thursday March 31, 2022

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Thursday March 31, 2022

‘Glaring conflict of interest’ …as Carvil Duncan heads union that represents city workers and also member of LGC City Mayor Ubraj Narine has flagged what he believes to be a glaring case of conflict of interest involving Carvil Duncan who heads a union that represents city workers and is also a member of the Local Government Commission. Duncan is the President of the Guyana Labour Union. The Local Government Commission (LGC) is the body responsible for sanctioning all the council’s decisions including hiring and firing of workers. In his capacity as GLU Head, Duncan has been lobbying for an increase of pay for City Hall staffers. However, Mayor Narine has been critical of the recommendations given by the GLU head since he believes that Duncan should not be occupying both positions. During a press conference on Friday last, the Mayor explained that the Council following consultations with the LGC was able to increase the salary of staff by 10 percent with 5 percent being retroactive from 2021 and 5 percent in 2022. This increase is expected to bring some relief to the current increased cost of living. Mayor Narine indicated that while salaries are important to workers, he finds it difficult to understand the motives of the Head of the GLU Head. Narine explained that while the commission has taken on itself powers to hire, fire and discipline officers without

Members of the Local Government Commission at their swearing in ceremony. consultation of the Council, Mr. Duncan a union head is privy to all the decisions before they see the light of day. “It would seem that Mr. Duncan finds himself in a position of conflicting interests,” Mayor Narine stated. The Mayor said too that while this apparent conflict is happening, “it is unfortunate that neither Mr. Duncan nor the Local Government Commission is yet to find its voice on the recommendation that the City Constabulary form part of the Guyana Police Force and benefit from training and equipment of the Force.”

Additionally, he noted too that the long-standing challenge of taxes owed to the Municipality by Government agencies has seemingly not found favour with the LGC. The Mayor indicated that the issue will directly impact the capacity of the Council to provide increased salaries beyond the current framework and restrict the ability of the Constabulary to monitor the markets, provide enforcement of by-laws and promote safety and security in the city. He stated that the City Constabulary is underfunded

Fallen tree branch kills miner A conversation between two friends on Tuesday ended abruptly after a tree branch fell and killed one of them at Two Points Backdam located along the Cuyuni River, Region Seven. Dead is Daymon Gibson, 38, a gold miner of Lot 17 Caribese Hill, Bartica. The tragedy according to police occurred around midday. Investigators learnt that Gibson owned a four inch land dredge in the backdam and a friend had visited his camp that day. Together, they went to the work ground where his operation was set up and were chatting with each other not too far from the pit. That conversation however ended abruptly. According to

reports, a crackling sound was heard but the men barely had enough time to react. They tried to run but only one of them narrowly escaped. Gibson was struck to his head and was subsequently pinned. Gibson’s workers reportedly saw what happened and immediately stopped what they were doing and rushed to assist him. A severely injured Gibson was rushed via boat to the Chinese owned Aurora Gold Mines, located a short distance away from the backdam. Upon arrival, a doctor working with the company based at its operations there, pronounced Gibson dead. He was later taken to the Bartica Regional Hospital for further examination before being transported to the hospital’s mortuary.

and functions with limited staff - a situation which can be easily remedied if the Local Government Commission engages with the Council to work together to ensure the efficient management of the City. Mayor Narine also highlighted the recent initiative to collaborate with the Guyana Police Force,

which has seen an increase in police presence at the markets and major intersections in the City. Unfortunately, the Mayor has been unable to engage the Commissioner of Police despite repeated attempts and letters requesting same. The Mayor stressed that the management of the City will only be successful if all

stakeholders work together. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that this can be realised in the shortest possible time. He also called on the Government to address the challenges of the City in a consultative and collaborative manner including all stakeholders to ensure solutions are sustainable and impactful.

Ansa Mcal launches Ariel June millionaire promotion

Ansa Mcal launches Ariel June millionaire promotion Ansa McAl Guyana Limited on Wednesday launched its Ariel June Millionaire Promotion where consumers will participate to win the grand prize of $1,000,000 while the consolation prizes will be $100,000, $75,000 and $50,000 and hampers valued at $15,000. The promotion was first launched in 2012 and has been executed consistently every year since, except for2020 due to the COVID19 pandemic. The promotion will run from April 1 to June 20. To participate, persons will have to submit one packet of Ariel except the 95g in an envelope with name, address, telephone

On the left is Gabriel Lopes, the brand Coordinator for Ariel and Alleya Hamilton, Corporate Communications Officer. number and drop into entry box provided. The promotion will be executed at outlets in Georgetown, Berbice, Bartica, Linden and Essequibo. A list of participating outlets will be posted on the company’s Facebook page Ansa Mcal Guyana Ariel as well as on Ansa Mcal Guyana Procter and Gamble (P&G). First drawing will be on the 28th April, second drawing 30th May and the final 24th June. “Ariel is also looking forward to doing more promotions to give back to our customers for their continuous support throughout the year. We wish our participants the best of luck!” the company said in a release following the launch yesterday.

Thursday March 31, 2022

Kaieteur News

7 homeless after Blairmont blaze The aftermath of the fire

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Still waiting on full coverage insurance: Guyanese officials complete training in oil spill response

A section of the exercise

A fire that reportedly started by a three-year-old Wednesday morning has left seven persons homeless in Blairmont, West Bank Berbice. Reports are that the Guyana Fire Service responded to a call about a fire at Lot 135 Blairmont No.4 Settlement, West Bank Berbice around 09:17 hrs on Wednesday. According to the Fire Service, the fire was started by the child who was playing with a lighter that ignited a mattress in the

bedroom. Sunita Ramotar, 22, who lives with her father-in-law Heeralall Bishunlall, her husband and four children said that she left home to go to the clinic with her baby and had left her other children, ages 5, 3 and 2 in the care of her father-in-law who is ill and cannot walk properly. She said she left home around 08:00 hrs and her husband had also left for work earlier. Ramotar said while she was at the clinic, she

received a call from the neighbour stating that the house was on fire. The neighbour also informed her that her children and fatherin-law were out of the burning building and safe. She said when she got home, the entire building was already consumed by the fire and nothing could be saved. She is estimating $4 M in losses. Persons who are desirous of assisting Ramotar and her family to get back on their feet, can contact her on 660-7968.

T

he Civil Defence Commission (CDC) through the Government of Guyana and in collaboration with the National Oil Spill Committee (NOSC) on Wednesday conducted a National Oil Spill Response Exercise in the form of a Command Post and Field Tactical Exercise. This activity signaled the end of a series of training and workshops, which began in September 2021 as part of the National Oil Spill Response Effort. It must be noted that despite these activities, Guyana is yet to secure full coverage insurance from ExxonMobil in the event of an oil spill here. This newspaper has been championing the call for ExxonMobil to provide full liability coverage in the event of an oil spill. Since 2015, ExxonMobil Corporation, the parent company of Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), has steered clear of being tied to full coverage insurance for its Stabroek Block projects, which are certain to deliver multibillion dollar profits on an annual basis. Instead, its subsidiary (EEPGL) will be officially on the hook if such an eventuality occurs offshore. This is the state of affairs with its Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two and Payara Projects. According to a CDC press release, Wednesday’s mission was three-pronged with the Command Post established at the Pegasus Hotel, and sectional posts at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard Headquarters and the Marriott Shoreline. The activity was simulationoriented, which saw fictional scenarios surrounding a twovessel collision and oil spill, being responded to by various agencies. Members of the National Oil Spill Committee such as the

Guyana Fire Service (GFS), Guyana Police Force (GPF), GDF Coast Guard, Maritime Administration (MARAD), Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and CDC played integral roles in assessing the simulated incident and managing the relevant responsibilities. Technical support was provided by The Response Group (TRG), an international incident and crisis management entity. Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, Director General of the CDC, issued a few remarks during the Prime Minister’s visit to the Exercise Command Post. “The intent of the National Oil Spill Exercise is to test G u y a n a ’s o i l s p i l l capabilities to respond to a Tier Two oil spill scenario through the activation of the NOSCP.” He added that the Exercise aimed to mimic reality by conjuring complex problems that require critical thinking, rapid problem s o l v i n g a n d e ff e c t i v e responses. Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, inspected the Command Post and Shoreline Post and congratulated all the players on a job well done. Prime Minister Phillips indicated that he recognizes a need for adequate resources to combat such a hazard, but committed the Government of Guyana’s support to ensure that all materials and personnel are in place for such an event. The Guyana National Oil Spill Response Exercise (GNOSRE) was ultimately a series of events in the forms of training sessions, workshops and assessment projects that spanned over a few months beginning in September of last year. However, most of the significant exercises occurred in March of 2022 in a total of eight (8) phases. Phase One was Exercise Planning and Coordination which was executed by a

National Multi-Agency Team led by the CDC. Phase Two saw Focused Capacity Building where a series of knowledge and skills transfer activities were engaged to enhance participating organisations’ capabilities. Exercise Orientation and Brief was the third Phase, where participating organizations were informed on exercise conduct and adequate information was provided to influence preparedness. Phase Four was Exercise C o n n e c t i v i t y, w h i c h facilitated the testing of all communication channels and media to ensure interoperability. The fifth Phase was a Tabletop Exercise, where stakeholders ventured on a theoretical journey through various scenarios to assimilate key actions to be used in a real operational theater. Phases Six and Seven were the Command Post and Field Tactical E x e r c i s e ; a n d Demobilization. Real life scenarios were presented to prompt real life actions by key organizations which are based in the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP). This was followed by the assurance that all resources were accounted for, removed from the Exercise Posts and returned to their designated locations. The Exercise Review, which is the eighth and final Phase will occur on March 31 and, will be the interrogation of all phases of the Exercise to identify gaps and key lessons to influence future learning and foster strengthened responses. Most Phases were conducted virtually and supported by several international agencies. Upon completion of Evaluation and Review, updated plans in the form of a comprehensive report will be incorporated into the NOSCP which will be used as guide for potential oil spill hazards and disasters.

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Kaieteur News

Thursday March 31, 2022

110 West Regent Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 592-227-4754

Thursday March 31, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Thursday March 31, 2022

Kaieteur News

Foreigners using locals to get around local content regulations - Ramesh Dookhoo VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable. Contact:649-0956. 2017 Toyota Fortuner (bronze),Immaculate condition 2.7L petrol 26,000km 15.5M neg.Contact 6287954.

WANTED Female to take care of an elderly male between the ages of 25 to 40. Accommodations provided.Call or WhatsApp 1-868-683-1528. General domestic covid 19 vaccinated for Tuesday & Saturday between Cove & John & Unity area E.C.D. Tel:259-0953/623-3231. One apprentice electrician. Call:682-2971. One office assistant. Call: 2332725.

SERVICES Massages and Rehabilitation physical preparation personalized training. Bachelor in Physical Education and Sports: Kirenia Ballard Bell.Call:669-6910. Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040. Specialized repairs/service refrigerator, washing machine, pressure pump, stove, treadmill,dryer, filteration system, deep fryer.Call:6949733.

Dried carilla bush,soursop leaves,lemongrass,mango leaves (anyquantity). Call: 609-8281/693-3003. Supervisor/counter clerk, preferably live in(female 2540yrs) for bar & shop. Tel:6103974.

VACANCY One excavator operator and one grader operator to work in Diamond.Contact:6321118/647-4161. Billing clerk & Porters, location Stabroek Market. Experiences is an asset. Contact: 661-1000,226-9800.

FOR SALE 2-1 acres land@ blankenbu rg W.C.D. Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251. 1-40 acres land@Linden Highway.Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251. White Toyota Verossa, price 1.8Mil. Call:608-6948.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Great Diamond,Tuschen, Onderneeming, Haslington, Eccles & more.Contact:2278274/223-6035/673-6210.

Experienced roti/puri cook, kitchen assistant, cleaners. Apply at Hack’s Halaal Restaurant,5 Commerce st. Cashier,supermarket helper at Nirva Superstore.Send application at 49 Sheriff & Craig st tel:227-5771. Pitmen,Serviceman,Hauler Operator and Welder for interior location.Applicants must be experienced. Call:2312250. One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing. Keyfood Trading,Mc Doom village. 1 Porter.Apply at LENS,136 Sheriff Street, C/Ville.Tel: 2271511/227-2486 Male & Female workers to work at Magic Touch Car Wash & details centre. Call: 669-4676/669-8960.

LAND FOR SALE 48 acres of transported rice land situated in Goodhope, East Bank Essequibo. Contact:1-917-807-6424/688-9077.

Vacancy exists for Water Delivery Driver and Porter for E.C.D.Tel:676-1363/692-6768. Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area. Call:615-9132

Less than a month after the Ministry of Natural Resources opened the local content register for Guyaneseowned companies to benefit from the oil and gas sector, foreigners are already finding ways to manipulate and undermine the system. This was highlighted by Private Sector Executive Ramesh Dookhoo on Tuesday, while he was addressing a gathering at a luncheon hosted by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services A s s ociation (GMSA) on Tuesday. Dookhoo noted that some foreign companies have begun manipulating systems put in place to ensure Guyanese benefit from oil proceeds under the new Local Content Act. “Already we’re seeing foreign companies making their staff members, shareholders in the company and doing all things, manipulative things, to qualify for the Local Content Register.” Dookhoo said. He noted that the authority given to the Local Content Secretariat has to be deeper. “It has to be associated with the Companies Act of Guyana and they must have more authority to investigate companies,” Dookhoo added. Further speaking to Kaieteur News after the event, Dookhoo noted that over past weeks, the issue was brought to his attention. “There are about three or four complaints about compa-

VACANCY One male 25-50 Ayres to work shift @Deal Ice Coca:2311408/642-9191. One female cleaner.Apply in person at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St. Accounts Clerks.Quickbook knowledge & accounting experience.Survival Shopping Complex,173 Sheriff St,Camp belville Georgetown. Tel:6092995. Inventory Clerk.Survival Shopping Complex tel: 6092995,email:surviv al. human re sources@ gmail.com. Western Union CSRS. Experience will be a plus,tel:6092995,email:sur vival.human resources @ gmail.com. Valid Drivers License(with motor lorry & van).Tel:6092995,email:surviv al. human res ources@ gmail.com. One clerk for TSI Recycles office English & Math, grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or e-mail application to teacher @yahoo.com.

nies that are already on the register. What I think is needed is for the Secretariat to properly investigate companies not in compliance with the law,” Dookhoo noted as he pointed to various practices, which he said are used by foreign businesses, to skirt G u y a n a ’s l o c a l c o n t e n t provisions. In keeping with the new stipulations occasioned by the local content law, the Government of Guyana last February launched a register for local businesses and professionals to advertise their goods and services. The new Local Content law provides for the establishment of a Local Content Secretariat that will develop and maintain Local Content Register of Guyanese nationals for employment and Guyanese companies from which goods and services may be procured. The law also outlines a schedule that sets out targets of benefits for Guyanese in 40 key sectors to be implemented by the end of 2022. The creation of the register is set to open the door for Guyanese businesses and individuals looking to gain easier access to the oil and gas sector.

Private Sector Executive Ramesh Dookhoo These two registers, as stated in the law, will deal specifically with the procurement of goods, and secondly, the provision of skills and employment. Back then, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat had explained the mechanism will pave the way, the oil and gas companies operating in Guyana, as well as their contractors and sub-contractors must procure from Guyanese companies by the end of 2022, 90% of office space rental and accommodation services; 90% janitorial services, laundry and cater-

ing services; 95% pest control services; 100% local insurance services; 75% local supply of food; and 90% local accounting serv i c e s . “ … We n e e d a strong Local Content Act in place to ensure that benefits trickle down to every single Guyanese, regardless of if you are a farmer, regardless if you are a welder, mechanic, in the catering business or the waste disposal business – everyone should benefit from the oil and gas sector and the opportunities that arise from this sector,” Bharrat had said.

Hicken takes charge - Shakes up senior management, commanders Days after being appointed to acting Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken has already begun to put his stamp on the Force by making several changes in the senior management and command structure level of the Guyana Police Force. President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday appointed Mr. Hicken to act in the Office of the Commissioner of Police in the Guyana Police Force. The appointment takes effect today (Wednesday, March 30, 2022). Prior to the appointment, Mr. Hicken was performing the duties of Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’. Former Commissioner of Police (ag) Mr. Nigel Hoppie, DSM, proceeded on pre-retirement leave on Sunday, March 27, 2022.

Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken and Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Hicken moved Senior Superintendent R. Budhram as head of Special Branch and posted him to perform the functions of Deputy Commis-

sioner Operations. Also Senior Superintendent Errol Watts moved from Commander Police Regional Division #3 to head (Continued on page 18)

Guyana/Barbados food... From page 3 including the launching of the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme -a flagship initiative that will see the establishment of 100 shade houses for the cultivation of

three high value crops. Additionally, government recently launched a Black Belly sheep project in Region Five that will see 1,000 sheep arriving in Guyana shortly from Barb a d o s to kick-start the

project. Close to 80 farmers have since expressed their interest in the project with many more set to step on board, as Guyana seeks to tap into the US$48 million mutton market in CARICOM.

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Contractor bids $10M below engineer’s estimate to... From page 2 Civil Defence Commission Construction of multipurpose building and bond.

Construction of intake structures at Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo.

Rental of building for the Police Complaints Authority.

Construction of parking lot at the National Intelligence and Security Agency.

Provision of consultancy for the construction of pump station at Capoey, Essequibo.

Provision of security services for CDC office 2022-2023.

Ministry of Education General cleaning and clearing of Good Hope Secondary School compound.

Construction of parking lot at Castellani House Compound.

Supply and delivery of new computing devices and ICT equipment for teachers and students Lot 1 to 3. National Drainage and Irrigation Authority Repairs to steel sheet pile revetment at Hubu Sluice, Essequibo.

Supply and Delivery and installation of new equipment for smart classrooms, Lot 1 new ICT equipment for smart rooms, Lot 2, new furniture for smart rooms.

Office of the Prime Minister Procurement of fibre equipment, licences and reflective labels.

Tacama road project, phase two.

National Communication Network Inc. Provision of taxi/transportation services.

Office of the President Procurement of new vehicles.

Ministry of Legal Affairs Supply and delivery of laser colour multi-functional copiers.

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Thursday March 31, 2022

Clarity needed on gas generation capacity of Stabroek Block – Int’l Consultant - Chris Ram says asking questions not anti-project With little information available to the public on the gas-to-energy project which is now pegged at US$1.3B, Co-Director of Energy at Americas Market Intelligence (AMI), Arthur Deakin, on Tuesday night during a panel discussion on the project was keen to note that while there is need for the project to come on stream, clarity is needed on the gas generation capacity of the Guyana’s largest oil reserve, the Stabroek Block. Other panelists on the OilNow gas-to-shore discussion were Chartered Accountant and Attorneyat-Law, Christopher Ram, and financial analyst, Joel Bhagwandin. Deakin first stated that he is aware of the negotiations ongoing between the Government of Guyana (GoG) and American oil giant, ExxonMobil, on the price of the gas and who is going to build the actual power plants. While noting that he believes that it was determined that Exxon would build the pipeline, Deakin pointed out that there still needs to be a Request For Proposal (RFP) for who is going to build the power plant and the liquids facility. He added that at this point, in terms of energy security around the world, it is more important than ever to have the gas-to-shore plant come on stream as quickly and as safely as possible. However, while making further comments, Deakin highlighted that there is still no clarity on the amount of gas that has been found in the Stabroek Block. “There are estimates, you know, 20% of it is supposed to be associated gas, but I think we need more concrete figures to know exactly what is realistic in terms of the generation capacity,” he added. Deakin pointed out that it has been said that the power plant will produce 250 megawatts, but what is not known is how much of the gas

Corruption benefits the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor. Say no to it.

Chartered Accountant and Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram.

Co-Director of Energy at Americas Market Intelligence (AMI), Arthur Deakin. that can be piped out from the Liza 1 well to shore. As a result, he emphasised the importance of greater clarity on the issue, which he stated must be addressed. Another panelist, Christopher Ram, while speaking on the gasto-shore project, noted that while there is no doubt about the benefits of the project, h e p o i n t e d o u t that asking questions about it does not mean that you are anti-project, b u t i n f a c t , means that there should be a more informative discussion. In fact, Ram said, “So in speaking about the project, we can all say yes, it certainly has benefits…the devil as they say is in the details.” The chartered accountant also pointed out that while it is being said that the project will cut electric-

ity cost by half, when the aforementioned will be possible is not known. Moreover, Ram stated that there is no question that any country should be looking at reducing its electricity generation costs as well as reducing its carbon footprint. However, he noted that it is not necessary for a long-term solution, but in terms of an energy mix, it should be done. According to reports, the gas-to-shore project was first touted as a US$900M inclusive of a gas pipeline, a gas fired power plant, and related processing facilities, Budget 2022 has confirmed this to be untrue and has in fact now confirmed a new price tag in excess of US$1.3B. The government has committed to providing some $520M in total, towards the gas fired power plant and has since allocated US$20M towards the project.

Hicken takes... From page 16 Special Branch. Senior Superintendent M. Siewnarine moved from Commander Police Regional Division #4 ‘B’ to Commander Police Regional Division #3; Woman Superintendent D. Griffith moved from Commander Police Regional Division #2 to Commander

Police Regional Division #4 ‘B’; Superintendent S. Bacchus moved from Force Training Officer to Commander Police Regional Division #2 and Superintendent K. King moved from Second in-Command Regional Division #4 ‘B’ to Force Training Officer (temporary).

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$150M lawsuit filed against lawyer who allegedly abused female cop

D

ays after she was reportedly assaulted and verbally abused by attorneya t - l a w, N i r v a n S i n g h , Shawnette Bollers, a female Special Constable attached to the Guyana Police Force has brought a $150M lawsuit against him in her claim, filed by attorney-at-law, Eusi Anderson. Ms. Bollers is suing for GY$150 million for slander allegedly published orally by Mr. Singh on March 20, 2022. She noted that the lawyer used derogatory words to describe to wit he referred to her as “a monkey, a black monkey, you Black people have no purpose in life.” Bollers said that she was at the time operating on guard duties at the Middle and Cummings Streets Georgetown home, owned by his father, Carl Singh who is a retired Chancellor of the Judiciary. She alleged that at the time of the incident, Mr. Singh approached her and chased her out of her duties area and subsequently, off the property, forcing her to abandon her post and duties for the said night. According the claim filed on behalf of Bollers, the lawyer used certain words in a “loud and aggressive manner which amount to defamation of character.

“The willful malice in the slander is observed in the fact that he used these words to her whilst she was in uniform including full police regulation number and other police markings.” Further, the female SC alleged that Mr. Singh’s behaviour amounted to “an absolute disregard for the authority of her uniform.” Bollers’ claim explained that the words allegedly published by the attorney were untrue, maliciously uttered and undiluted falsehood, she said they expressly or by innuendo meant that she was not a human being of the homo sapien species and by extension not worthy of recognition in her humanity or human dignity.” The policewoman said she believed that her race as a Black/ Negro person was not worthy of respect, is a group whose purpose and worthy of insult, was not worthy of respect, visibility and a human identity. As such, she is also claiming exemplary damages. The document outlined that, “Exemplary and aggravated damages are warranted, further, because of the nature of the comments in the context of slavery and its effect on Black people and the universally accepted norm

that Black and monkey are derogatory terms forbidden from use on anything other than monkey and apes.” Last week, Bollers WC15555, in a letter from her lawyer detailed the incident. She accused Singh of spitting on her. She noted that, “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.” Fearful for her life, the female rank reportedly fled the location and reported the matter to her superiors who despite her complaints caused her to return to S i n g h ’s r e s i d e n c e t o continue her duties. It was said that on March 21, Singh’s father reportedly apologised to the rank on behalf of his son.

The Middle and Cummings Streets Georgetown residence where the incident occurred.

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No.72 Cut and Load defeat Dukestown Warriors to clinch BCB/ UCCA/Vitality Inc T20 title Winning No. 72 Cut and Load team with representatives of the Sponsors and UCCA.

A brilliant fast bowling spell of 6 for 12 off 4 overs from Davendra Juggernauth led No.72 Cut and Load to an 11 runs win over opposition Dukestown Warriors at the No.69 Vikings Cricket Ground over the last weekend in front a sizeable crowd who turned out to witness the highly anticipated BCB /UCCA/ Vitality Inc Final between No.72 Cut and Load and Dukestown Warriors. No.72 Cut and Load batting first after winning the toss, reached 118 all out from 20 overs with Davendra Chatterpaul scoring 35, Kadil Agit 25 and extras contributing a mammoth 30 runs. Bowling for Duketsown Warriors; Errol Byass grabbed 2 for 32

off 4 overs, Wayne Garnett 2 for 29 off 4 overs and Boodram Sookdeo 2 for 15 off 4 overs. In reply, Dukestown Warriors scored 107 all out in 19 overs with Clavern Beresford scoring 35, Jamal Byass 19 and N. Richard 11 were the principal scorers. Bowling for No. 72 Cut and Load; Davendra Juggernauth claimed 6 for 12 off 4 overs and Sieraj Chatterpaul supported him with 2 for 21 off 4 overs. No.72 Cut and Load carried home the championship trophy and the winning cheque, while a very disappointed Dukestown Warriors received the runner up cheque and trophy. President of the Berbice

Cricket Board Hilbert Foster congratulated the Champions and also wished the Runnerup better luck in the Future. He also thanked the Vitality Inc sponsors Mr. Surein Sawh and Mr. Abbas Hamid who came on board to make the tournament a great success. The BCB took the opportunity to hand over cricket gears to a newly formed youth club in the area, while the RHTYSC,MS also donated a total of twenty eight scorebooks to the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association for distribution to clubs in the area. Foster also announced that another tournament – the Vishu Super Store 40 overs round robin would start shortly.

Thursday March 31, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Are your views about certain intellectual or spiritual matters slowly changing, Aries? If so, you may not be all that comfortable with the changes. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Business success may have come your way, Taurus, but today you could find yourself feeling a little sad and wondering why, since there's no real reason to feel this way. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you could feel torn between the desire to get a little exercise and a powerful inclination to curl up in your favorite chair and catch up on some reading, Gemini. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Do you have the uncomfortable feeling that you've forgotten something but you have no idea what it is, Cancer? Are you haunted by the memory of a seemingly insignificant past event. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If you've been thinking about starting a new creative project, Leo, don't try to do it today. Friends and family could vie for your attention and distract you. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Business might be going very well for you, Virgo, but intense changes on the job could have you feeling stressed.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Have you been planning a vacation to a distant place, Libra? Unexpected, discouraging glitches could interfere with your plans. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Money matters could have you descending into a state of pure gloom, Scorpio. On the surface it might seem like you'll never be able to sort through all the paperwork. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Is your sweetheart out of town, Sagittarius? If so, you're probably feeling a bit lonely and insecure. You need to ignore those fantasies of your beloved. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You probably won't feel like working today, Capricorn. You may not be tired, but you're probably bored, restless, and unable to focus. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Love matters could appear to be moving far more slowly than you'd like, Aquarius. Both you and your romantic interest may be overloaded with responsibilities now and unable to see each other much. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today's planetary configuration will give you a strong urge to be out and about, Pisces, but responsibilities could keep you at home or the office.

WDCA President Azeem Troy Khan... From page 24 participate in the WDCA elections and to take steps to have these requirements met in a timely manner. President Khan pointed out that to advance cricket in the West Demerara area and to create a significant impact on Guyana and West Indies cricket that all willing and available members of clubs must be given an opportunity to participate in the administrative process. By the very least, all relevant club members must be afforded the opportunity to communicate their interests and expectations. Additionally, President Khan thanked the delegates for their overwhelming support and pledged to serve the interests of West Demerara and Guyana’s Cricket in an accountable and dedicated manner. He also thanked the Ombudsman and the Returning Officer for the transparent and efficient conduct of the elections. President Khan

Australia farewells... From page 22 friend and media comrade Eddie McGuire, the master of ceremonies, read a letter from Jason penned to Warne early in his career. “Now is the time to put everything, and I mean everything, into it and make it work for you,” Jason wrote. “So, come on, make some more sacrifices and give people the opportunity in 20 years’ time to say, ‘remember Shane Warne. We’ll never get another leggie like him. “‘He was the best spinner Australia has ever had.’” Warne is survived by children Brooke, Jackson and Summer.

also expressed his appreciation to the GCB team for their attendance and the delegates for their maturity and discipline exhibited during the elections. Guyana Cricket Board President Bissoondyal Singh, in an invited comment, congratulated the new Executive Committee of the WDCA and pledged the support of the GCB to the development initiatives planned to be undertaken by the association. President

Bissoondyal Singh pointed out the need for all categories of players to be given the undivided attention capable of realizin g t h e i r o p t i m a l cricketing potential. He contended that Guyana is not short of players with exceptional talent however, it is essential to create the conditions to identify these talents and the learning environment to nurture and develop them so that these players become exceptional

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Australia farewells “legend” Warne at MCG Memorial MELBOURNE, (Reuters) Shane Warne was remembered as a cricketing genius and maverick entertainer at a state memorial at the Melbourne Cricket Ground yesterday where tens of thousands of people gathered to pay tribute to one of the

game’s finest players. Australian Warne, whose talent and personality transcended cricket, died of a suspected heart attack about three weeks ago at the age of 52 while on holiday in Thailand. A private funeral was held for Warne’s family and closest

friends in Melbourne last week but all were invited to yesterday’s televised memorial where his father Keith mourned the loss of “a loving and caring son” and his former team mates remembered a fierce and mischievous competitor. “Shane said

of himself, ‘I smoked, I drank and I played a little cricket,’” Keith Warne said in a eulogy at his son’s home ground, where he took a hat-trick and his 700th test wicket. “Mate, your mother and I can’t imagine a life without you. You have been taken too soon and our hearts are broken. Thank you for all you did for us.” Warne is arguably Australia’s most revered cricketer after the great Don Bradman, who regarded him the game’s best ever legspinner. Greta Bradman, the granddaughter of the Depressionera batsman and captain, sang Australia’s national anthem at the evening memorial. Former Australia skipper Allan Border thanked “genius” Warne for reinvigorating his captaincy, while former England captain Nasser Hussain remembered a “great sledger” who emptied bars at

cricket grounds when he started to bowl. West Indies batting legend Brian Lara said Warne was the greatest Australian he had ever met. Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar said he would miss him “big time”. A slew of athletes, Hollywood actors and musicians offered video tributes for a player who injected glamour into test cricket and was a huge fan of rock music. Briton Elton John sang his classic 1974 song “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me”, while Chris Martin, frontman for Coldplay, sang the rock group’s 2000 hit “Yellow”. “Shane is a classic, an Australian legend and I was honoured to call him a friend,” 11-times world surfing champion Kelly Slater said in a video. Fans filing into the MCG before the memorial paused at

Warne’s statue outside the stadium, taking photos of the flowers, beer cans and cigarette packets left by others in the wake of his death. Credited with reviving the art of legspin, Warne made his test debut in 1992 against India, kicking off a brilliant 15year international career. Though celebrated as a cricketing genius, he also courted controversy on and off the field. He was suspended for a year for taking a banned diuretic and his private life was often tabloid fodder. Australians forgave him his many transgressions, however, won over by his down-to-earth demeanour almost as much as his 708 test wickets and Ashes heroics. His younger brother Jason Warne spoke of intense childhood rivalries in sport and board games. Warne’s (Continued on page 19)

Thursday March 31, 2022

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Kaieteur News

BCB/ Tenelec Under15 tournament 2022...

Port Mourant defeat favourite Rose Hall Canje to win championship The winning Port Mourant Prem Kennard CC poses with representatives of the sponsors and BCB Officials.

An brilliant all round performance by all rounder Ravin Boodwah led Port Mourant to a 27 runs victory over Rose Hall Canje Arbormarts in the final of the Berbice Cricket Board / Tenelec under15 2022 tournament. Playing in front of a crowd consisting of parents and supporters of both teams, Boodwah scored a patient 26 with the bat before returning with the ball to take four wickets for four runs in ten overs to spearhead PMCC Prem Kennard to an upset victory over the favourites. Port Mourant batting first after winning the toss, reached 93 all out in 31.4 overs with Boodwah top scoring, while extras contributed a healthy 45 under cloudy conditions. Bowling for Rose Hall Canje, off spinner Romario

Ramdeholl took 3 for 8 from 8.4 overs, Nicholas Hall 2 for 25 from 7 overs, Enrique Mickle 2 for 29 while Abulla Azad, Eric Souvenir and Adrian Hetmyer took one wicket each. Needing to score 94 from their allotted fifty overs to claim their first youth championship, Rose Hall Canje were set back from the first ball when the impressive Shamar Daniels trapped the informed Adrian Hetmyer leg before wicket for nought. Hetmyer entered the finals with three centuries to his name in the tournament. Skipper Ramario Ramdehol and Joden Edwards both scored ten runs in a very disappointing batting display by Rose Hall Canje. They were sent packing for 56 in 27.1 overs as

Man of the Finals Ravin Boodwah.

Jaisingh guides ECC Masters to comfortable win A fine all-round performance by Ronald Jaisingh handed Everest Cricket Club Masters an 84-run win over Pomeroon Masters when the teams collided in a 25-over affair on Sunday last. Batting first, host Everest Cricket Club Masters posted 132-6. Sahadeo Hardaiow struck four fours in a top score of 32, while Jaisingh made 28 not out with two fours, opener Robin Bharat scored 23 including two fours, Basil Persaud contributed 18 and Ravi Narayan 14. Ryan Tang took 2-19. Pomeroon Masters were bowled out for 48 in 17.4 overs in reply. Royston Kanhai made 14 as Jaisingh captured 4-8, skipper Rajesh Singh 2-11 and

Ronald Jaisingh

Lokeshwar Mohabeer 2-16. Jaisingh was named manof-the-match while Everest CC Masters received a trophy. The game was sponsored by Ravin Balkaran of Ravin Radiator Works.

Boodwah took 4 for 4 from ten miserly overs and received support from his brother Navin Boodwah who took 2 for 13 from 4.1 overs. Daniels, who started the destruction, ended with 3 for 22 from 8 overs. Ravin Boodwah was named Man of

the Match for his all round performances. Port Mourant carried home the championship trophy and the winning cheque, while a very disappointed Rose Hall Canje received the runner up cheque and trophy. Chairman of the Competi-

tion Committee of the BCB, Leslie Solomon congratulated the champions while wishing the runner up, better luck in the future. The tournament, he stated, was successfully completed in a few short months and announced that the BCB

was in the process of starting its under17 tournament while there are plans for the hosting of under19, under21 and under23 in the near future. Thanks was expressed to sponsor Bobby Deonarine of Tenelec Inc, based in the United States of America.

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WDCA President Azeem Troy Khan is new Executive on Demerara Cricket Board

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ewly elected Presi dent of West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA) Mr. Azeem Troy Khan has been co-opted as an executive of Demerara Cricket Board by virtue of his election at the WDCA elections which were held at the Uitvlugt Community Centre on Wednesday March 2, 2022. The elections were conducted by Cricket Ombudsman Malcolm Peters and were held in accordance with the Guyana Cricket Administration Act 2014 with a high-powered team of Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) officials

as observers. The new WDCA President Azeem Khan is the company secretary for FAB Mining Company, company secretary for Sightseeing Tours Guyana Inc. and manager of Odyssey Transport Services. He has donned whites for the Meten-Meer-Zorg Cricket Club, the club where he grew up playing cricket. He represented the West Demerara Under-19 and Senior teams and played first division cricket for the Police Sports Club (Georgetown) between 1991-2001. The other elected execu-

tives of WDCA are: Vice President Shango Singh, Secretary Feroze Barakat, Assistant Secretary Navita Singh, Treasurer Avinash Ganesh, Assistant Treasurer Vaickesh Dhaniram and Public Relations Officer Avishkar Ramgobin. The Committee members are Christopher Class, Andre Seepersaud, Darren Jordan, Sheldon Alexander, and Ajita Persaud. The positions of Chairman of the Senior Selection Panel and Chairman of the Junior Selection panel will be filled by the new Executive Committee. At the elections, Azeem

WDCA Executive 2022 - Sitting from left: Vaickesh Dhaniram (Assistant Treasurer), Navita Singh (Assistant Secretary), Azeem Troy Khan (President), Avinash Ganesh (Treasurer), and Aviskar Ramgobin (PRO).Standing from left: Andre Seepersaud, Christopher Class (Committee members), Shango Singh (Vice President), Sheldon Alexander, Ajita Persaud and Darren Jordan (Committee members). Khan thanked the delegates for placing confidence in his ability to lead West Demerara to improved heights in the administration, development, and promotion of cricket. He stressed that there is a lot to be done to improve the stan-

dard of cricket within the precincts of the WDCA. President Khan posited that his executive will fervently seek to effectively address deficiencies in the player development pathway and process, including the accessibility of

clubs and teams to participate in structured competitions. Further, he indicated that administratively, the association intends to ensure that all relevant club members are aware of the requirements to (Continued on page 19)

Healy and Haynes dominate as Australia crush Windies to advance to final SportsMax - Australia continued their dominance at the 2022 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup with a comprehensive 158-run win over the West Indies in the first semifinal in Wellington. The match was reduced to 45 overs per team after a rain delay before the toss which the West Indies won the toss and elected to field first. Australia’s opening pair of Alyssa Healy and Rachael Haynes got off to a slow start while assessing conditions before putting the Windies bowlers to the sword once they got comfortable. The two ended up putting on a mammoth 216 before Healy was dismissed for a blistering 129 off just 107 balls in the 33rd over. Healy’s innings included 17 fours and one six. Haynes eventually got to 85 off 100 balls before she became the second wicket to fall with the score on 231 in the 36th over. Captain Meg Lanning (26 not out) and Beth Mooney (43 not out) then continued the attack for the Australians before the innings closed with them amassing 305-3 off their 45 overs. Chinelle Henry was the only West Indian who had a decent showing with the ball, taking 2-51 off her nine overs.

Stafanie Taylor punches one on the off side, Australia vs West Indies, 2022 Women’s ODI World Cup, 1st semi-final, Wellington, March 30, 2022© ICC via Getty Images

The Windies started their reply already at a disadvantage as Anisa Mohammed and Chinelle Henry were both unable to bat after sustaining injuries in the field. Captain Stafanie Taylor (48), Hayley Matthews (34) and Deandra Dottin (34) were the only West Indian batters to pass double figures as Australia were equally dominant with the ball, restricting the Windies to 148-8 to secure a 158-run win and advance to the final. Jess Jonassen took 2-14

off five overs. Australia will be looking for their seventh ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title and first since 2013 when they play the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and defending champions England. The second semi-final took place late yesterday in Christchurch. Scores: Australia Women 305 for 3 (Healy 129, Haynes 85) beat West Indies Women 148 (Taylor 48, Jonassen 2-14) by 157 runs.

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VertiCast Media Group moves to align with Caribbean Media I

n a first for the region, the VertiCast Media Group Limited (VertiCast), led by President & CEO Oliver McIntosh, is launching a vertically integrated media company that will incorporate broadcast across all media platforms into multiple markets in the Caribbean. Following on from his two-decade-long stewardship and experience of building the Caribbean’s leading sports broadcaster SportsMax, McIntosh and the team at VertiCast have set out to create a regional media entity with the intention of broadcasting over television and digital media via streaming and mobile via partnerships and on its channels. Having the experience of successfully leading rapid growth previously across 26

countries, McIntosh intends t o l a u n c h Ve r t i C a s t operations by this summer. He noted, “VertiCast is set to transform your viewing experience by providing the very best international and local content across multiple platforms. We will provide prime content for all Caribbean audiences – for the first time providing premium sports and general entertainment via any broadcast platform via local and regional channels, whenever you want to watch.” McIntosh indicated that pan-Caribbean audiences, who may not have had access in the past to premium content, can expect to have easy access to the best international and local content and experiences. Several significant announcements from

VertiCast are expected over the coming weeks that will reshape the media industry regionally and in select markets in the Caribbean. A key element behind VertiCast is the unrivalled team, including Chief Commercial Officer Carlo Redwood. Redwood draws on decades of experience in strategic and tactical marketing, brand development and commercial strategy. Senior marketing roles with telecoms and multinationals, marked by tangible successes, provide him with keen insights into the venture. “Our advertising customers can take advantage of hyper-local or regional viewership or both to maximize the value of their spend in ways not previously available,”

Redwood explained. “The seamless integration of traditional broadcast and digital channels right across the Caribbean complemented with an emphasis in sports marketing events allow our customers the flexibility and scale to suit their specific marketing objectives,” he added. The well-established industry experience of the VertiCast leadership team extends to Head of Operations & Business Development Timothy Paty and Head of Programming Kia McIntosh. Paty leverages his onthe-ground experience in Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados and the USA, bringing unparalleled expertise in cost control, compliance, legal and regulatory oversight. While Kia McIntosh will

Oliver McIntosh - VertiCast Media Group President & CEO

utilize expertise gained as Programming & Production Manager at BET and other media/telecom companies. By capitalizing on integration on all broadcast platforms for regional and local market broadcast, VertiCast will be able to serve up premium content to a vibrant market of nearly 45 million people in over 26

countries including the English-speaking Caribbean, the Dominican Republic, and parts of South America. The multi-platform company has already attracted strong support from major content providers, which the Company will roll out over the next couple of weeks.

MMZ USA end Guyana tour with 5 wins & 5 losses in 12 days “Tour was beyond expectations” says Manager Ejaz Asgarally

Former Guyana U-19 keeper Ejaz Asgarally By Sean Devers olice beat MMZ USA by 69 runs as the visitors ended their 12-day tour to Guyana on Sunday. Playing at the MetenMeer-Zorg ground the West Coast of Demerara in Region 3, the consistent Kevin Christian (47), Kemol Savory (32) and 23 from Andrew Lyght junior and Quinton Sampson, Police reached 173-7 in 20 overs. Andy Mohammed took 2-21 for MMZ USA who

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The MMZ USA team during their Guyana tour. were all out for 104 with Sheldon Alexander (39) being the only batter to reach 15 as Jason Heyliger took 525 and Troy Benn supporting with 2-21 for the Lawmen. Former Guyana U-19 Wi c k e t - K e e p e r E j a z Asgarally who played in 1987 in Jamaica, 1988 in Barbados and 1989 in Guyana is now Manager of the MMZ USA team and said the tour to Guyana was beyond expectations.

“It was not just about playing cricket but was also to experience the beauty of our beautiful County of Guyana. The cricket was very exciting for the boys, who for most of them were playing on turf wicket for the first time. Playing against the likes of Hemraj, Kemo Paul, young Chanderpaul and others was truly and amazing experience,” said Asgarally who grew up in

West Demerara before migrating to the USA. “Andy Mohammed, the skipper of the team had a disappointed tour with the bat but led the team with admiration. Having played 10 games in 12 days, winning five and losing five is not an easy task. We had outstanding performances from former Guyana youth player Renaldo Renee, who smacked a brilliant unbeaten

century against Enmore Cricket club, while Malcolm Hobbard, Samuel Raghubir, Cornelius Jaisingh and Ricky Kissoon all contributed at different times,” stated Asgarally who played First Division cricket for Police. The Manager thanked all of the sponsors and everyone who helped in some way to make the tour a success, especially Troy Khan and his Family and Nazar Mohamed

from Mohamed’s Enterprise. “With games in Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice it was truly an amazing experience for the touring team. The team visited Kaiteur falls and the Shaheed boys and girls Orphanage. MMZ USA also visited the Honourable Minister of Sport Mr Charles Ramson and GCB President Mr Bissoondyal Singh,” concluded Asgarally.