Kaieteur News

K

Saturday Edition Amended full coverage insurance motion to be debated

AIETEUR NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

May 14, 2022 - Vol. 16 No.18

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 66,178

in National Assembly

Govt. cherry picking reform of oil laws p. 3

- Int'l lawyer says: Country needs stronger rules to guarantee transparency, accountability, impartiality, and independence in the industry

AG Chambers Pedestrian killed in Soesdyke-Linden issues veiled threat to cut State Highway accident ads from KNews -police investigating Pres. Ali, Opposition Leader to meet on appointments to Constitutional, - Govt. to provide Statutory Commissions CVs of nominees E-Networks now Guyanese inks MoU operates Guyana's with SBM to rear largest Fiber-Optic 'premium' shrimps, prawns for oil ships Backbone p.

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- Kuru Kururu latest to benefit from 4G rollout

Attorney urges ExxonMobil to redo Gas-to-Energy impact assessment p. 13

- Cites lack of due process, fundamental legal breaches

Ashni Singh says three more mega gold companies, larger than OMAI, on its way to Guyana, this The Glenn Lall Show @11:00hrs is the final cleanup of every single pennyweight of gold this country has. ListenontoKaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

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Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2022

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Govt. cherry picking reform of oil laws - Int'l lawyer says: Country needs stronger rules to guarantee transparency, accountability, impartiality, and independence in the industry

By Renay Sambach

U

pon assuming office in August 2020, the PPP administration had promised an overhaul for Guyana's petroleum laws. In fact, President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his inauguration address pledged to establish a Petroleum Commission to insulate the oil and gas sector from political interference.

However, it has been 21 months since the government assumed office and it has yet to honour its promise to the nation.

The Petroleum Commission Bill was initially proposed by the APNU+AFC for the establishment of an independent body which would hold responsibility for monitoring and enforcing Guyana's modernized petroleum laws, policies and oil agreements. The body was also intended to ensure oil companies comply with health, safety and environmental standards.

That Bill was however sent to a Special Select Committee since its most

International Lawyer, Melinda Janki fatal flaw or characteristic was that it gave the Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman at the time, a toxic level of control over the said body.

Since assuming office, the PPP/C Government has not made any headway with the improvement of the Bill, much less its passage. Both the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat have agreed that such a body is needed to ensure the sector is independently managed and kept away from political influence.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

In fact, in March 2021, the Minister Bharrat had stated that within a matter of weeks, the independent regulator the government promised to establish for the oil sector would be in place.

Minister Bharrat was also quoted on the Guyana Basins Summit website as saying that the Commission is needed so it can “manage this emerging sector without political interference.”

Kaieteur News had reported that according to Bharrat, the commission will oversee the implementation of new regulations such as minimum

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali.

Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, SC.

local content requirements.

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, had told Kaieteur Radio during an interview with Guyana's Oil & You hostess, Kiana Wilburg, that the Bill is at the Ministry of Natural Resources and it is being actively considered by a Legal Department within that Ministry.

The Attorney General

had shared that the Department is working closely with the Chief P arliamentary Couns el attached to the Attorney General Chambers and had cited that changes are likely to be seen. Since then, the government has not disclosed the progress made on this front.

Notwithstanding the

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat. importance of the Petroleum Commission Bill, the government in the meantime has engaged in the cherry picking of legislative reform to award itself sweeping powers over the country's oil revenue.

Kaieteur News had reported that the PPP/C Government had hurriedly (Continued on page 23)

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KAIETEUR NEWS Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: SHARMAIN GRAINGER Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Guyana’s Diaspora to come or not to come

G

uyanas President is reported to have said that the diaspora must not be “lazy” in taking advantage of the rich opportunities and sweet promises offered by this country. Quite a few members of the widely scattered Guyanese diaspora, largely concentrated in America and Canada, have contemplated whether to return to Guyana, or to stay where they are, and keep building on the foundations that they have erected for themselves. On the other hand, some Guyanese have actually taken the plunge and retraced their steps to take up permanent residence in the land of their birth, their memories, their love. Still, the challenge lingers for many, regarding whether they should heed the national leaders call, and make the move back to their homeland.

Indeed, the Guyana of today is not the one that they have left a decade or two ago. For those who left since the 60s, 70s, or 80s, this country would be like a new planet to them. It would be almost totally alien to what they had always known. That Guyana is gone, and is now replaced by a sweep of activity, a rush of intensity, that characterizes many segments. It is the pull that tempts, and is what political leaders have been marketing in their recent journeys, their speeches, and as they highlight (like politicians the world over) the bright side only. The arrival of oil, and its continued discoveries in massive quantities, has changed everything overnight.

The local hustle and bustle have been ratcheted up to a fever pitch, with announced, projected, and actual shortages of skills, talents, and expertise in numerous areas, both oil and nonoil related.

The dilemma for Guyanese in the diaspora slowly and cautiously weighing their options is what is the best move for them to make. That is, should they stay in America or Aruba, or should they come back to Demerara? As examples, there are those Guyanese who have done well in what we call the trades, such as masonry, carpentry, and fixing sophisticated machinery, ranging from vehicles to appliances to technology. Some of the overseas based locals still have families, assets, even a real estate base here, which makes the attraction even more tempting.

The Guyanese diaspora is also aware that there is a construction boom underway in this country, and that there is serious shortage of skilled workers.

The question for these Guyanese is what they should do, meaning, pack up their traps like they did when leaving here, and starting over again, but this time on familiar grounds, as in home? For sure, there must be a decent contingent of Guyanese engineers of different specializations, Guyanese accountants and auditors, and Guyanese with funds to invest in real estate and other businesses. As tempting as things are in Guyana, there is a strain of hesitation, a degree of fear, that still prevails about what is the best thing to do for themselves, given how Guyana is beneath the glitter.

The hesitations and fears are largely centered over such meaningful issues as corruption, discrimination, bureaucracy, crime, policing and, of course, this countrys rotten politics and its hard-edged polarization. From all of these, there is what is still believed to be lacking, stability and justice, leadership ethics and clean governance. These were among some of the very things that chased hundreds of thousands of Guyanese for decades into what is now called the local diaspora. It didnt matter whether it was the PPP-C or PNC-R that was in power, Guyanese fled for greener, safer, pastures. Now the advent of oil in immense amounts has made for more miseries and monstrosities in this society. What should be beneficial for all Guyanese has, so far, turned out to be artificial and detrimental, except for those in power and their chosen few.

Thus, as much as many Guyanese desire to return, they are caught in two minds. It is why give up what is proven, what has been good, for what is uncertain, and could be of the same old culture, environment, and circumstances that led to the heartache of leaving. The oil has a magical quality about it, but Guyanese in the diaspora are also aware of its long, dirty underbelly.

Guyana’s political leaders think that the Courts can solve essential political issues DEAR EDITOR, I run the risk of being considered tedious or repetitive; however, because so much is at stake and the prospect of this and succeeding generations not obtaining optimum benefit from our God-given natural resources, these efforts are worthwhile.

The German, Joseph Goebbels and the American Senator, Joseph McCarthy utilized the repeating of an issue until it gained currency and in some cases, acceptance. Last week, we were entertained through verbal exchange between the Leader of the Opposition and the de facto Leader of the PPP government. The subject seemed to be the March 2020 General Elections.

For me, and I believe the majority, Elections are done and gone, and I remain disappointed that our current crop of leaders seem unable to understand that from the onset the March 2020 Election was bound to be controversial, because we went into Election Day with a bloated list and therefore controversial conditions. Stanley Ming presented figures to show the absurdity of an Election list inconsistent with our population, so Guyana in March 2020 had 660,000 odd voters and census figures pegged our total population at 750,000 odd, in a country where people between 0 and 18 constitute a near majority.

The absurdity of this is palpable.

The biggest joke in Guyana is that our political leaders, all of them seem to think that the Courts can solve what are essentially political issues, and so in spite of a bloated list, the Courts suspended House to House registration. The maximum number of eligible voters could

not be more than 460,000 .This is the sorry and sad situation of March 2020 National Elections in Guyana. The energies of our leaders should now be directed by extracting from those who are harvesting our natural resources, much, much more than what we are now getting. Looming on the horizon is the prospect that Guyanese can be gobbled up by the same attitude that enslaved us and exploited us for centuries.

Additionally, the Opposition, Civil Society and Stakeholders should demand full details of this multi-billion dollar gas to shore project which seems to be the brainchild of a few and to date, we have not had any meaningful consultation and details necessary in a society, where stupidity, arrogance and corruption seem to be the order of the day. Our leaders must together correct the lopsided agreements signed before and after 2015. These among others are the things we are interested in. Suriname gets 6% of profits; Guyana gets 2%.

Here, let us not blame nor curse the conglomerates. It is our leaders who were elected to fight for Guyana, and I remember this sentence from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, “the fault dear Brutus is not in our stars but in ourselves that we are underlings.”

Speaking with a government top brass last week, he contended that the reason for the government not engaging the Opposition in constructive dialogue is that we are still referring to them as an installed administration. I pointed out to him that while Joseph Harmon was the Leader of the Opposition, I raised this question with him, pointing out that to refer to the government as an installed one is unproductive.

He agreed with my argument and to the best of my knowledge, this rhetoric ended and therefore removed this puerile excuse given by the Government. I pointed out to him that in any case a serious Government could not shout from the hilltop about One Guyana and use this story about an installed Government as he put it, as an irritant.

This kind of reaction can only be accepted by infants and the immature. Being touchy is not for Presidents and Politicians. It should be left for the four and five year old unaware of the complexities and responsibilities of good governance and the real world in which we live.

Last year, I appealed to the Leaders of our main political entities, to set aside their differences and come together to deal with particularly, the oil giants who have from Africa, Asia, Latin America raped countries because their leaders could not unite and speak with one voice and most of all were either stupid, venal or corrupt.

I reminded them of the old adage, “United we stand, divided we fall.” The only positive response to this initiative has been from the new Leader of the PNC and now the Opposition, Mr. Aubrey Norton.

What we wish to hear now is what a caring government is doing to bring relief to Guyanese everywhere.

Unlike previous administrations, the money is available. Last week, the Natural Resources Fund transferred forty-one billion dollars to the Treasury. How is this massive sum to be spent? We have not been told as yet. The ordinary people burdened by rising food prices and the cost of daily living wish to share

meaningfully in this mighty bounty.

This is what I believe, the majority of Guyanese would have liked to have debated and settled. These massive sums of money belong to all the people and not to be disposed of by the whims and fancies of our emerging oligarchy. Speaking for myself, this is what our Leaders should concern themselves with at this stage of our history. Corrupt administrations throughout modern history do not mind people speaking up. I have a relative, when the siblings were discussing the rousing talking of their father, the younger one said, Do you hear Daddy speaking? I hear but no longer listen.

When George III ignored the taxes placed on the American colonies, the ancestors of todays great America brought the British King to his senses by acting in what we know today as the popular “Boston Tea Party,” in 1773.

Today, we see Sri Lankans in the face of what they considered a stubborn President and Cabinet. The people took to the streets in Colombo and the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is not only hearing but forced to listen to their concerns and has been making efforts to placate the people. We heard statements from this government, Freedom of the Press, as they celebrated Press Freedom Day last week.

The time has come for us to listen and digest the excellent editorials found in Stabroek News, Kaieteur News, the writers of GHK Lall, the robust patriotic crusade

by Glenn Lall, the writers, Dr. Vincent Adams, Janet Bulkan, Elizabeth Hughes, Christopher Ram, (Continued on page 5)

Some good thoughts on these programmes DEAR EDITOR, This letter was inspired by Dr David Hinds’s Politics 101 Wednesday, May 11.2022 edition. The programme had two parts. Part One dealt with the bulldozing of homes and property of the residents of Linden in Region 10. Part Two was a discussion on the US State Department Human Rights Report on Guyana.

In the first part Pastor Nigel London described the terrible plight/experience of those persons whose property was destroyed by agents of the PPPC regime in Linden.

Viewers witnessed the graphic images from a video showing the bulldozer in action demolishing a woman’s home. Mr. London’s commitment to the

struggle for justice for the victims must be supported by all decent and fair-minded Guyanese opposed to the brutalization of the poor and powerless in the society. It was heartening to learn that community action and support resulted in rebuilding a home despite threats that it will be demolished again.

Pastor London’s call for a significant response from the community to let the rulers know in no uncertain way that the eye pass must stop is of paramount importance. His efforts at raising the matter internationally to highlight African oppression in Guyana is an appropriate initiative that will enhance our struggle. I stand in solidarity

with the victims of this recent act of oppression of the rulers.

The second part of the program featured GHK Lall, Henry Jeffrey and Nigel Hughes discussing the US State Department Human Rights Report on Guyana, its importance for country and US intentions. Issues were addressed in depth and frankness rarelyachieved in public discourse on political matters in Guyana.

This was commendable and for these reasons, I recommend the programme to all Guyanese, the masses, and the nation’s political leadership, inclusive of government and opposition. The issues ventilated by the distin-

guished panelists are of great importance to the Guyanese nation. I will not venture into the details since I want citizens to watch the program and be educated on the present and future challenges facing us as a nation. Hopefully, having done so make a conscious choice about where the nation goes. I made my decision.

I end with this conviction: the experience of watching the program will be worth your time and your attention.

More importantly, having viewed the programme no one cannot in good conscience make the claim that “I did not Know”.

Yours sincerely, Tacuma Ogunseye

Saturday May 14, 2022

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Police reports are integral to crime solving The US is in order by excluding Venezuela DEAR EDITOR, to arrive at a just and fair con- lice report. That is okay, but and Nicaragua at Summit of the Americas The writing of reports by clusion. that individual would be hard

the police is integral to crime fighting and the solving of many civil and criminal matters.

Many cases have gone down the chutes as a result of poor reporting or none at all. This is a major bugbear in the crime-fighting story of our Caribbean Society and I am making an emphatic call for this matter to be addressed speedily. There are simple matters that have gone a begging due to the lack of independent reporting from peace officers.

A report from the police is information coming from the only independent witness on the matter and crucial evidence into the solving the case. Otherwise, it would be a shouting match of he said she said matter with no end in sight. This makes the work of the judiciary more difficult

Being a peace officer it is your duty to report and act in a just an impartial way, writing up your report in a detailed and accurate manner is critical to any case. A well written report, gives a thorough account of what happened, and the safest way in doing this is to stick to the facts; it is vitally important.

Remember, either party have a story to tell and would be eager to put forward his or her case in the way that would make them look good in the eyes of the judicial adjudicator. Therefore, the police who would have arrived on the scene must stay clear of being prejudicial or impartial in his reporting, this makes for easy crime solving on any matter.

Then, there is the situation where someone refuses to consent or to sign to a po-

Some good thoughts on...

From page 4 Kiana Wilburg, Simone Mangal-Joly, Abraham David among many others. This should stimulate our young people in particular to come out of their comfort zone.

The medias role is to inform and educate, the rest of us as leaders must be able to agitate so that we can liberate and bring peace and prosperity to Guyana. Far too many of us are either afraid or reluctant to get in the frontline. Our young people of every race, colour and creed must be reminded that unless there was agitation earlier, even Independence could not have been won.

Mr. Editor, let us ponder the words of two great Americans, one white, one black.

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, observed that “To sin by silence when they should protest, makes cowards of men.” Later, we were also reminded of what Martin Luther King, Jr. observed: ”Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things

that matter.”

He also reminded us that ”In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” In the face of what appears to be a surrender, by many of our leaders, there are whisperings of pessimism. We must not betray our noble ancestors whose bones at the bottom of the Atlantic still rattle and plead with us to be brave and seek justice. Those who came as indentured labourers and toiled expect us to vindicate their sufferings, and I remain wedded to the truth of this well known maxim “ Vox populi, vox Dei - The voice of the people is the voice of God.” Let our voices be heard and when necessary, let us march to confront the haughty enemy. On May Day, we sang these lines from the International - “ Arise ye workers from your slumber.

On tyrants only well make war.”

Regards, Hamilton Green Elder

pressed to explain to the judge what was the basis for their refusal to consent to a report.

This would hinder as well as hurt their case, because things are fresher in one’s mind then, than weeks and months later.

Examples of this kind show up in domestic violence matters or other sensitive cases where politics is involved. In such instances, the victim refuses to give a statement. However, all of this changes, when either for political mileage or financial rewards, a person suddenly becomes lucid. But like I said earlier, this strategy oftentimes hurts, rather than help ones case.

We have come to the point in our discussion where there is the general reservation as to the writing skills of the lawmen.

How proficient are they in their writing? Are they up to the task when it comes to writing up a proper report? Can their writing stand up in a court of law? These are all legitimate questions we may ask and to which we deserve honest answers.

This matter can be corrected if only the powers, that be, take the bold imitative to have their officers trained and certified in the writing up of reports.

I am willing to give back to my country by way of a national service, whereby I can help in the strengthening of the force’s writing skills capabilities. It is something I am seriously considering as I approach my retirement year.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

DEAR EDITOR, The Summit of the America must got on! It is the democratic right of any country to reject the invitation from the US, as it is the right of the host not to invite countries with leaders that do not respect human rights, the rule of law and free and fair elections and whose governance does not embrace the basic tenets of democracy...leaders that imprison opposition operatives and human rights advocates.

The US is in order by excluding Venezuela and Nicaragua but it is a flawed decision on its part to exclude Cuba which over the years has introduced tremendous reforms and which continues to play a critical role in supporting the medical needs, on humanitarian grounds, of

many developing nations around the globe. It must reconsider its position and invite Cuba.

Maduro and Ortega, rather than implementing reforms, are making human rights conditions worse in their respective countries. They continue to disrespect basic human rights and the tenets of democracy and in the case of Maduro continues to pose a threat to the security and stability of the Americas with his jingoistic maneuvers from time to time regarding Venezuela’s baseless claim to Guyana’s maritime space and five-eights of its landmass.

Let those leaders who wish to boycott the Summit do so....every action has a reaction but I am sure the current Biden Administration, unlike Trump’s, will hardly

retaliate since it is well aware that any punitive measures will hurt the people of the boycotting countries and not their leaders....except some of these leaders are asked to account for any hefty balances they might maintain in personal US bank accounts.

So the responsible administration that is President Biden’s will, in my view, not seek to make it difficult for American tourists to visit Antigua and Barbuda, make it difficult for the boycotting countries to have access to vaccines in the height of a pandemic, cut the quota of visitor visas for these countries, discourage US businesses from doing business in these countries or make it more difficult than it already is in terms of the supply (Continued on page 6)

The Road to Boa Vista DEAR EDITOR, Just possibly there may be two noteworthy connections to Brazil’s President Bolsonaro’s visit to Guyana.

The first must be his country’s record of ongoing deforestation and the accompanying debilitation of its indigenous communities, of which our proactive Government could not possibly be unaware, and should certainly have reservations, if not fundamental objections – respectively from ‘Climate’ and ‘Human Rights’ perspectives. Not to mention their exposure to the COVID-19 infection.

The other, more immediate

reference, perhaps, is the forthcoming general elections in Brazil in October this year, and which involves the resurgence of the once popular Lula as Bolsonaro’s competitor. What then are the implications for the road to BOA VISTA, amongst other projects?

Do we have a diplomatic presence in Rio de Janeiro who is evaluating the reaction of the country’s expansive

black population to their President’s attitude to more fundamental human rights, and their possible reaction to his published inaccessibility to local journalists – a (Continued on page 6)

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“One Guyana” My Foot!

DEAR EDITOR, Is the “One Guyana” message an empty political slogan, or is it a sincere aspiration of the President?

If the President is sincere, he first needs to sell that message to the people at all levels of his administration- national, regional and the NDCs. For instance, for some time now, government has been

giving out baby broiler chicks, ducklings and stock feed to predominantly one set of people.

What about those who are not perceived to be its supporters?

Aren’t we all Guyanese?

Do some of us pay our taxes to another country? How come all the people who clearly meet the criteria and

are deserving of this assistance are not all entitled to receive it, regardless of our racial or political affiliation?

This is an example of the hypocrisy and the blatant discriminatory practices carried out against poor people by of our “caring” government.

“One Guyana” my foot!

Yours truly, Dougla

The US is in order by excluding Venezuela...

From page 5 chain for ships and cargo planes to ply routes that include those countries that will choose to boycott the Summit.

Just image what a new tax on airline tickets to Antigua would do to that country’s tourism market. And of course the US will always be among the first responders to assist

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Kaieteur News

the people of CARICOM when natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. hit.

The boycotting countries enjoy the right to boycott.

The Summit will go on. The US I expect will act responsibly and not seek to retaliate in a way that will hurt the people, especially of CARICOM countries who

have shared values with their brothers and sisters in the US. I expect that Secretary of State Blinken will engage those countries that plan to boycott to urge their participation. But in the final analysis it is up to the leaders of those countries to make the decision to attend or not to.

Regards, Wesley Kirton

Vacancies at GGMC DEAR EDITOR, A prospective candidate wondered why your editorials have not enquired about the number of positions of Heads of Departments advertised as vacant in GGMC these past weeks, positing that it was abnormal for most organisations, particularly of the public sector, to operate with such a vacuum for an indefinite period: - Manager, Mines - Manager, Geological Services - Manager, Environmental Division - Manager, Administration

- Human Resources Manager - Assistant Commissioner, Finance - Chief Security Officer The enquirer speculated that it could not be as a result of resignations, unless of course they were forced, which is the same as if the incumbents were fired leading one to speculate about the nature of any Board decisions, and the latters implications, given the current work environment projected in comparable areas. It can hardly be described as a clean sweep. Indeed it will be more

The Road to Boa Vista...

From page 5 discourtesy albeit facilitated by the latter’s own government?

Chances are also that locally based representatives of countries who are disenchanted with our autocratic neighbour’s track record must

have reservations about the standards of their host in relation to human rights and other internationally accepted moral principles.

In any case was Minister Todd reminded of Maduro?

Regards, Name Provided

described as a dreadful move by normal organisational standards.

The situation leaves some to wonder about the professional context of decision-making of the Commissions Board, moreso its ability to select now the right candidates for the respective advertised positions.

But even with such an achievement, there still remains the very fundamental management component to be addressed that of Succession Planning in order to provide for such vacancies to be filled from within the Commission in the future.

But in turn such a programme must be based on well organised and objectively conducted performance appraisal exercises.

The Question is: Where lies the capability? Time for introspection!

Regards, Conscientious Observer

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It continues to befuddle us here at the Kaieteur News how idle some of our leaders are. One of the most powerful government departments – the Attorney General Chambers headed by Anil Nandlall took the time to respond to an article by this newspaper questioning the wisdom in spending $8M to build a parking shed when thousands of Guyanese are hungry and don't even have a roof over their heads.

And to think that the AG Chamber, which should be exuding brilliance not just in jurisprudence, but also commonsense would put out such piffle for a press release, yet has the audacity to attack the quality of journalism at this newspaper makes you want to puke.

This is the same AG Chambers that presides over some of the most egregious constitutional breaches in government. Since the PPP/C came to power in August 2020, the AG Chambers advised the President that he could appoint persons Parliamentary Secretaries who were on the party's list of candidates- a clear breach of the Constitution.

The chamber advised the President to fire the entire Police Service Commission, when he had no such powers, having not followed the procedures.

This very chamber advised government that it could decide the budget for the constitutional agencies only to have it overturned, but it seeks to lecture us about journalism.

So our advice to the folks on Carmichael Street, it would serve you best if you pay attention to the plight of the poor, the hiking of gas price again, the high cost of living, the lack of housing for thousands of Guyanese and access to potable water and stop wasting our money on a parking shed.

The $8M can adequately build eight small houses for poor families or two of the government-constructed turn-key ones. But you good folks at the Legal Affairs Ministry do not want to hear this; you are bent on squandering taxpayer's money in the name of protecting vehicles.

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Saturday May 14, 2022

Amended full coverage insurance motion to be debated in National Assembly T

he amended version of a Motion submitted by the Opposition seeking full insurance coverage for ExxonMobil's Stabroek Block's projects, is soon to be debated in the National Assembly.

Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson, who filed the Motion back in February of this year, was considering legal action to secure full insurance coverage, following the weakening of the Parliamentary action by House Speaker, Mazoor Nadir.

On the sidelines of an e v e n t o n We d n e s d a y

evening, Patterson in a brief comment told Kaieteur News that the Motion will still be resubmitted to the House for debates in the new week.

He could not say how soon the Motion will be debated but noted that it was an opportunity for the government to show how much it cares for its country.

The Opposition's Motion on full coverage insurance is calling for the Government of Guyana, to include full unlimited liability coverage for oil spills and other disasters related to petroleum production, as a condition for granting approval for ExxonMobil's

fourth project, the Yellowtail development, and all other future petroleum d e v e l o p m e n t .

It is also seeking an independent analysis on the possible ill effects of an oil spill and for this report to be submitted to the Parliamentary Committee of Natural Resources, to be used as a reference for all other future oil development submissions.

The oil company has since gotten the necessary environmental approvals to proceed with the Yellowtail development, in the absence of full insurance coverage.

Nevertheless, ExxonMobil is currently seeking approval

for its fifth oil project, Uaru Plus.

“It's very disturbing that we have to fight Exxon so hard to get them to do what they have to do in other countries,” the former Minister said, as he went on to remind of the importance of the motion.

He said, “The Insurance Motion is so that we can have a clear guideline set out for the company to comply with.

We have several different versions on what is covered and what is not covered (in the environmental Permits) so we need it to be very explicit on what is covered and what isn't.

We also want to make it mandatory to any future licenses being granted so that we don't have to go through this entire process again. We want to ensure that the government supports the call and to ensure that the country knows the Opposition's position.”

The Insurance Motion On February 16, Patterson filed the Motion in the National Assembly seeking full coverage insurance of Guyana's oil activities. The Speaker in a written response to the MP, dated February 28, 2022, informed that 13 of the 20 clauses in Patterson's Motion have been disallowed, while two of the 'whereas' clauses were also amended. The Speaker's response was sent by the Clerk of the National

Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson Assembly, Mr. Sherlock Isaacs. In the document seen

by Kaieteur News, Isaacs stated that the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th 'whereas' clauses were r e m o v e d .

The second clause, in the insurance Motion states, “And Whereas worldwide offshore oil production operations show a high likelihood of an oil spill occurring offshore Guyana, and that such likelihood of a spill increases exponentially with the rapid increase in offshore production activities” and the fourth clause read, “And Whereas the emergency response and cleanup of the British Petroleum Macondo oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico have so far cost more than $70 billion USD.” Even though these details have been widely reported on, and are moreover available for verification through quick research, these clauses were

removed as the Speaker concluded they must be based on facts. The removal of these clauses means that they will not be debated in the National Assembly.

On the other hand, another critical clause that was struck out highlighted or reminded the government that the Liza Two Permit allows for unlimited liability coverage. Clause 11 and 12 which were removed states, “And Whereas EEPGL agreed to the unlimited liability coverage commitment in the Liza 2 Permit and urgent purchase of the maximum available private insurance prior to signing the Permit; And Whereas EEPGL requested a c o n c e s s i o n f o r E PA (Environmental Protection Agency) to sign the Permit in order to maintain the confidence of its investors, conditioned upon giving EEPGL time to negotiate an Agreement amongst its (Continued on page 9)

Saturday May 14, 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Selectivity is at odds with press freedom It is imprudent and rude for any public official much less a Vice President to suggest that the official has a right to determine to which media houses or persons the official should speak. No such right exists in democratic societies.

Ministers have an obligation to be accessible to the media. This not only means hosting frequent press conferences; it also implies the need to make information public and to do so in a manner which does not suggest selectivity.

One of the reasons why press conferences are usually held with the entire media corps is to avoid selectivity in the granting of interviews.

But this has never stopped public officials from making disclosures through select media personnel, including ones to whom they are favourably disposed.

It is respectfully submitted that those who adopt the position that they have some earned right to determine to whom they should speak are doing so out of a profound ignorance of the obligations of press freedom.

Press freedom does not imply the right to speak to whomever one wishes. To accept this proposition would mean that public officials can justify speaking only, for example, to the state media or to those media operatives that are favourably

predisposed towards uncritical acceptance of the official views.

By extension, officials would equally be inclined to feel that they are justified to exclude access to whom they consider are opposed to them or who are biased or prejudiced. Press freedom, however, does not operate through selectivity.

As was emphasised in the case of the Government of South Africa vs. Sunday Times newspapers, “It is the function of the press to ferret out corruption, dishonesty and graft wherever it may occur and to expose the perpetrators. The press must reveal dishonest mal- and inept administration. It must advance the communication between the governed and those who govern.”

Kaieteur News has been doing these things. Moreover, for doing so, it has attracted the ire of both the PPP/C and the APNU+AFC governments.

The Constitutional Court of South Africa once emphasised the importance of the mass media in providing citizens with a platform for the exchange of ideas. In a landmark decision, the Court argued that the manner in which the media does this has a significant impact on the development of a democratic society. The Court said, “If the media are scrupulous and reliable in the performance of

their constitutional obligations, they will invigorate and strengthen our fledgling democracy. If they vacillate in the performance of their duties, the constitutional goals will be imperilled.”

Since the governed rely on the media for communication with and about those who govern, access by the media is absolutely imperative for a free press. In such a context, to suggest a right to speak to whomever one wishes, represents a denial of access to those who are not favoured. This holds true even when it can be established, beyond contradiction, that sections of the media are biased, unprofessional or have agendas which conflict with their professional obligations.

There is little doubt that there is gross unprofessionalism and lack of integrity within sections of the media fraternity. This, however, is not a recent phenomenon; it has always been the case.

Behind the lack of professionalism and integrity by sections of the local media was class warfare. Historically, the local middle and the petite bourgeois classes have used the media as a weapon against the PPP/C. In the process, some media houses and commentators lost all sense of fairness and balance.

But history has a funny way of turning out. Today,

Dem boys seh...

De guvament pick sides Lang ago people use tuh joke bout how DAguiar did talk how he walk with God, Burnham seh how he walk alone and Jagan seh how he walk with de people.

De people now walking alone. Dem get abandon.

When yuh gat dispute and dem parties in de dispute gat tuh reach around de bargaining table, yuh does gat a special seating arrangement. De workers does deh but one side, de employers does deh pon de odder side and de conciliator (which could be de guvament) does sit at de head

of de table.

De conciliator does suppose tuh be neutral. But dem boys now hearing how de conciliator sehing how it deh pon de side of de private sector. Suh who sitting at de head of de table?

De guvament done pick sides. De workers deh pon one side and de guvament and de private sector deh pon de odder side.

One side gat more food and drinks dan de other side.

Yuh nah gat tuh ask which is which.

If de guvament dem pon

de odder side is like de workers getting double bank. Is two against one. De odds stacked against dem.

It reminds dem boys bout when a man and he girlfriend bin get married.

De pastor tell de boy and de girl how from thenceforth dem gat tuh sit down together, side by side.

But as de years go by, de boy and de girl grow into man and woman and dem sitting opposite each odder. And is de pastor wah end up in de middle ah dem two.

Talk half and leff half.

some of those who used the media to launch unrelenting and often unfair salvos against the PPP/C are today the darlings of the PPP/C. The PPP/C prides itself as a defender and upholder of democracy. But this is mainly in terms of electoral democracy. When it comes to access to officialdom and transparency in government, the PPP/ Cs record is to its discredit.

For the media, access to

officialdom remains a problem, one that is made worse by the practice of some public officials granting exclusive and selective interviews to certain persons and media houses. The infrequent press conferences do not compensate for this shortcoming.

But far more dangerous is the recent shameless declaration by one public official that he has a right to decide who he speaks to. No such right

exists in a free society.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Saturday May 14, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

The usual suspects locked out? Really!

I

was told that the usual suspects sent another letter again on the Bolsonaro visit but it wasn't published. Just to refresh your memory, the usual suspects denounced the intended Bolsonaro visit in January, citing Brazilian government mistreatment of Afro-Brazilians.

There are times when the mind becomes asinine. Brazil is a major, global power whose economic ties with Guyana are a necessity for Guyana. But according to the thinking of the usual suspects, this poor country must act like a big, economic giant in the world economy and refuse to have a visit from the president of a neighbouring country.

Such asininity is not worth discussing. Any school child in Guyana would know states in the global system are unequal with some being seriously underdeveloped.

Economic interests are what small poor countries are pursuing in this unequal world.

They avoid getting involved in political rivalry games between enormously powerful countries.

Let us remind readers, who know the usual suspects, what Kaieteur News columnist, Ron Sanders wrote a few months back.

Let's quote him: “The 14nation CARICOM have been at the bottom of US official development assistance for decades. In 2019, for instance, total US foreign assistance globally was US$47 billion, of which collectively, 13 CARICOM countries received US$70 million only. For 9 of the 13 countries, the sum provided did not amount to US$1 million.”

Obviously, the usual suspects do not know about these global realities.

They live outside of Guyana (with a few misfits supporting them inside Guyana) so they could write their nonsense and not be affected by the state of underdevelopment in the Caribbean.

In fact, I read a letter, years ago in which a usual suspect boasted about tenure at a university overseas.

In the university system, tenure means permanent employment. This usual suspect never taught for even a day at our local university.

So according to the usual suspect, Guyana is well placed in terms of economic development to do without a visit by the president of a rich country within the global system. But here now is the moronic display of hypocrisy.

Those that were against the first visit of President Bolsonaro (which was cancelled because of his mother's death), live in countries that Bolsonaro visited including the United States.

But they didn't publish a letter in any American newspaper requesting President Trump to un-invite Bolsonaro.

They live in the US where they pay taxes and didn't say a thing about the

Trump-Bolsonaro meeting.

They don't live here so why concern themselves with Guyana? This is the morbid pomposity that characterises these people who are referred to as the usual suspects.

Remember just a month after the election rigging was over, the usual suspects who were eerily quiet during the five, yes five, months of attempts to rig the 2020 elections, penned a letter denouncing the visit to Guyana of Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo.

Anyway, this columnist was told that the usual suspects send another letter denouncing the recent visit

by President Bolsonaro but it wasn't published by their favourite newspaper.

I was told that the wife and son of Dr. Walter Rodney who signed the first missive were very reluctant to add their names this time and eventually didn't. I don't know if that is true. I hope both wife and son would clarify this.

I was told the newspaper

refused to print the missive because it considered it to be pure nonsense.

How can you ask small, poor Guyana to tell a global giant like Brazil that it is not in Frederick Kissoon favour of its president coming to Guyana?

Do you know the cruel thing in life.

They are bored and seek consequences for Guyana publicity by writing a letter that would follow?

Nations would look at every two months with 45 G u y a n a a n d s a y w i t h signatures. They are like laughable contempt: “who v u l t u r e s , j u s t w a i t i n g impatiently to have the this country thinks it is?

The paper may have had a arrival of the occasion to gain subconscious reason too for publicity by denouncing the government. not carrying the letter.

But why Guyanese have Maybe it sought to protect the suspects because come to ridicule them is people laugh at them all the because of their barefaced time. The paper wanted to hypocrisy?

They only choose topics save them from another that bring publicity rather occasion of embarrassment.

The Guyanese people than doing what is right and know that the persons that principled.

(The views expressed in comprise the usual suspects are happy people who have this article are those of the money and comfort both in a u t h o r a n d d o n o t and outside Guyana and do necessarily reflect the not have to worry about a opinions of this newspaper.)

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Several regional leaders confirmed for Agri-Investment Forum A

number of H e a d s o f Government from the Caribbean and Central America have confirmed their participation in the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, scheduled for next week at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) at Liliendaal.

This information was confirmed during a meeting between President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and senior staff of the Ministries of Agriculture and Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Friday at the Office of the President on Shiv

Chanderpaul Drive.

The leaders set to travel for the May 19-21 event are from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Monserrat, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago.

Ministers responsible for agriculture from the Bahamas, Belize, Dominica, J a m a i c a , S t . Vi n c e n t , Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago are also expected for the three-day event.

The opening ceremony is billed for next Thursday and will feature remarks from all of the visiting Heads of Government. President Ali in his capacity as Lead Head

with responsibility for Agriculture in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet will deliver an address on the theme 'Vision 25 by 2025'.

This event is being hosted by the Government of Guyana in collaboration with the CARICOM Secretariat and is intended to provide stimulating investments in the sector to transform the CARICOM agri-food system to one that is resilient, provides attractive and sustainable economic opportunities for investors while contributing to food and nutrition security.

President, Irfaan Ali The specific objectives of the event are: Promoting the Regional food system agenda and '25 by 2025 programme'; Facilitating dialogue among stakeholders in the CARICOM agri-food system with a view to identifying specific areas in which investment is needed to overcome existing structural and operational challenges; Making

potential investors and other stakeholders aware of new and emerging opportunities in CARICOM agriculture, including technological and logistical solutions; and matching bankable agricultural projects with available private and public financing.

It also includes forging a coordination mechanism for strategic partners to follow up on implementation issues surrounding financing for the sector.

Aside from regional leaders and dignitaries, over 300 persons from across the region have registered to participate in the event inclusive of investors, proponents of bankable projects seeking financing, financing institutions as well as development agencies.

Furthermore, the event will feature a number of key investment-related activities inclusive of a Countryspecific Investment Platform that will see investors presenting bankable projects

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Ali for investment consideration in specific CARICOM Member States.

Additionally, there will be a Donor Roundtable Discussion where development financing agencies, bilateral and multilateral donors will focus on finding and supporting novel ideas and solutions within the context of the '25 by 2025 programme'.

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2022

PAGE 13

Attorney urges ExxonMobil to redo Gas-to-Energy impact assessment - Cites lack of due process, fundamental legal breaches

A

ttorney Elizabeth Hughes, a resident of Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara who will be directly impacted by the proposed Wales Gas-toEnergy project has urged that the entire Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process be redone, owing to a lack of due process and what she deemed “fundamental breaches” to the laws of Guyana.

ExxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) will be pursuing an aspect of the project and is currently conducting a series of consultations with the public on the project.

On Wednesday, one such meeting was hosted at the Umana Yana, in Kingston Georgetown where the resident made her concerns known to the Consultant, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) which was charged with preparing the EIA document on behalf of the developer.

During the question and answer segment, Hughes told the panel, “My concern is really with the lack of due process and procedure. There are fundamental breaches of adherence to the instruments that govern this country and also to the gunning principles but these can be fixed quite easily.”

She went on to state her suggestions; “What we can do is recall the EIA and fix the fact that, I am assuming that we (residents in the Area of Influence) are primary stakeholders, the people who live next to the pipeline so recall it and have meetings with us because we are in the Area of Influence (AOI)…but yet we were never engaged.”

The resident reasoned that while it is established that the Consultant has conducted meetings, these were never done with those who are expected to be impacted, but rather State agencies.

She also requested that the address and signatures of the developer be attached to the EIA document. In addition Hughes pointed out that there was no gas management plan which speaks to response mechanisms and other related activities in the event of such a disaster.

On the other hand, the Canal resident told ERM that she believes that there ought to be one EIA document for the entire Gas to Energy project. So far, the EIA study has only been submitted for the pipeline and Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) Plant to be developed by Exxon, while the Power Plant aspect, to be pursued by government, is yet to be published.

According to her, “As the pipeline cannot exist without the plant and we are talking about it kind of as one here, we need one EIA because there is a major loophole between two different EIAs in that junction where the two projects meet so I would like to know why we don't have one EIA for the whole entire project.”

Given her listed points, the Attorney said, “This is really not a competitive process, you are the only players in the field so I think we can take our time and do a proper job and you can also incorporate all of these 11 things (public meetings) you are doing and retender the EIA and EIS (Environmental Impact Statement).”

In response to the Attorney, Todd Hall, the Guyana Program Lead for ERM explained that the Power plant is being pursued by another developer, hence a separate application has to be made to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which will determine whether an EIA is necessary and inform the steps required.

Hall shared, “In this case, EEPGL applied as the proponent for the NGL Plant and of course the pipeline and a separate entity applied for the power plant, GPL (Guyana Power and Light) specifically. So its GPL

Cuban arrested at CJIA with 'forged' Canadian visa A

male Cuban national, in w h o s e possession a forged Canadian visa was found, was on Friday arrested by police at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri.

According to police, the man destined for Panama City was scheduled to depart the CJIA via a Copa Airlines

flight, CW179, at 03:50hrs.

It was revealed that he proceeded to the check-in point at the airport and presented to a representative of the airline his passport and a visa purportedly issued by the Canadian Embassy based in Georgetown, Guyana.

However, the passport and visa were suspected to be forged upon examination.

As such, the representative made contact with the Canadian Embassy for verification and it was confirmed that the visa was forged. The suspect was immediately handed over to police and arrested.

His passport was lodged at the Timehri Police Station General Property Book.

An investigation is ongoing.

remit, under the law of course to do whatever the EPA directs it to do with respect to environmental assessment in the process of acquiring a permit for the plant.

In the meantime, Hall told the resident that ERM has considered the likely impacts of the power plant and has included information in its cumulative impacts assessment chapter of the EIA. Her other comments, he said, were also taken note of.

THE PROJECT The project will involve capturing associated gas produced from crude oil production operations on the Liza Phase 1 (Destiny) and Liza Phase 2 (Unity) Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels, transporting approximately 50 million standard cubic feet per day.

Attorney Elizabeth Hughes Construction will begin after the company receives all necessary authorisations, with a target date of August 2022 for start of NGL Plant site preparation, and will take approximately three years.

The combined offshore and onshore pipeline system is targeted to be ready to deliver

rich gas by the end of 2024, and the NGL Plant is targeted to be operational by mid2025. The project has a planned life cycle of at least 2 5 y e a r s .

The aspect of the project for which the oil company is responsible, that is to say, the (Continued on page 19)

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Local entrepreneurs meet with key organizations in USA L

o c a l entrepreneurs, Dr. Rosh Khan and Mr. Abbas Hamid, on May 9, 2022 met with the World Trade Center Miami and Enterprise Florida Inc. in Miami, Florida.

According to a press statement, during the engagement with Dr. Khan and Mr. Hamid, the World Trade Center Miami and Enterprise Florida Inc. expressed interest to explore the opportunities in Guyana.

Dr. Khan, a business development consultant and owner of ACE Consultancy said, “These meetings could not have happened at a more opportune time. We are grateful to the US Embassy

and the Department of Commerce for their role in facilitating these meetings in Miami and for their support during the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas.”

Dr. Khan plays key leadership roles in the local business support organizations such as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, and the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) [Guyana].

N o t a b l y, t h e engagements focused on key areas of cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations

[From left] Mr. Abbas Hamid, Dr. Rosh Khan, Ivan Barrios, President and CEO of the World Trade Center Miami, and Alice Ancona, Senior Vice President & COO of the World Trade Center Miami.

through increased trade. Dr. Khan also disclosed that his Consultancy will be engaging these entities for business matchmaking opportunities.

Dr. Khan also stated that webinars and trade missions will be announced in the near future.Moreover, according to Mr. Hamid, the Director of Vitality Accounting, “It was a validating moment to witness the genuine interest of the World Trade Center Miami and

[From left] Mr. Abbas Hamid, Z Joe Kulenovic, Vice President of Enterprise Florida Inc. and Dr. Rosh Khan.

Enterprise Florida Inc. to explore the opportunities in Guyana. Guyana has a chance to realize the 'potential' we've often talked about. It's about doing the work and seizing the opportunities.”

He shared too that his firm has already created a joint venture with Averkamp CPA Group LLC, a financial firm located in Florida.

Additionally, praise was also given to Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, the CEO of Go-

Invest, for their recent publications which included a Country Profile, Investor Profile, and a slew of material that highlighted sector-specific opportunities— all of which were very well-received.

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2022

Oral arguments in challenge to legality of NRF Act set for September

O

ral arguments for the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change's (APNU+AFC) challenge to the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act are slated to be heard on September 12, 2022.

The challenge to the Act was brought to the court by Opposition Chief Whip, Christopher Jones and Union Representative, Norris Witter. The Speaker of the National Assembly,

Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir.

Manzoor Nadir among others was listed as respondents in the matter.

On Friday, the first hearing of the matter was held in the Demerara High Court before Justice

Opposition Member and Chief Whip, Christopher Jones.

Navindra Singh.

Justice Singh granted an application by Attorneys-atlaw Kamal Ramkarran and Sase Gunraj, for an extension to allow for the Speaker to file an affidavit in his defence. By May 23, 2022, that affidavit should be filed after which, attorney-at-law Roysdale Forde, SC, who is representing Jones will file an affidavit in response by June 13, 2022.

Justice Singh also ordered that other submissions and replies by the applicants and respondents should be filed

on July 6, July 27 and August 17, 2022, after which the lawyers will be given an opportunity to make a 30minute oral presentation on

September 12, 2022.

The lawsuit, which was drafted by the APNU+AFC Shadow Attorney General (Continued on page 23)

PAGE 15

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

The body of the pedestrian still sprawled on the roadway.

Pedestrian killed in Soesdyke-Linden Highway accident -police investigating Police are currently investigating a fatal accident that occurred around 05:30hrs on Friday, in the vicinity of the Splashmins Resort, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, which saw a truck owned by Mark Forrester, 23, of Mackenzie, Linden slamming into a pedestrian.

Killed in the accident was a man who, up to press time, was yet to be identified.

According to police, the truck, GAB 1668, which was involved in the accident, was driven by 28-year-old Orael Davis also of MacKenzie, Linden.

So far, police have determined that the truck was proceeding north along the western side of the highway when the pedestrian, who was sitting on a tyre on the western side of the road, suddenly ran from west going east and into the path of the truck.

The driver of the truck, police revealed, applied brakes but because of the

short distance, the left side front collided with the pedestrian.

As a result, the pedestrian fell onto the road's surface and received injuries about his head and other body parts.

The pedestrian was picked up in an unconscious condition by police ranks and was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was examined and pronounced dead on arrival by doctors.

Traffic ranks from Police Regional Division 4 'B', who visited the scene and took measurements, statements, and photographs of the vehicle, also administered a breathalyser test on the driver but no trace of alcohol was found in his system. He is presently in custody assisting with an ongoing investigation.

The body has since been escorted to the Carmen's Funeral Home for storage, awaiting identification and post mortem examination.

The tyre which the pedestrian was reportedly sitting on before the accident.

The truck that was involved in the accident.

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2022

PAGE 17

SBM inks deal with Guyanese to rear premium shrimps, prawns to supply oil ships

S

B M O ff s h o r e ' s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) approach to its activities continue to guide the company's operations in Guyana as it remains resolute in the pursuit of sustainable development.

In fact, the company is leading a series of initiatives geared towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Wellbeing; Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Climate Action and Life Below Water.

In keeping with these objectives, SBM Offshore and Hubu Aqua Farms Incorporated signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for financial support in December 2021. Through the agreement, SBM Offshore is supporting the rearing of premium shrimps and prawns in Guyana, at the Hubu Aqua Farm. Kaieteur News understands that the farm is located in Hubu, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), and will be the first of its kind. It will be fully equipped with a hatchery, processing, and manufacturing facility.

The Hubu Aqua Farms hatchery at Le Destin, EBE.

Significantly, shrimp and prawns reared through the project will be used to supply the Floating Production

2 injured in Land of Plenty Public Road accident Police in Regional Division 2 are probing a serious accident that occurred on the Land of Plenty Public Road, Essequibo Coast, which has left two men – 34 year-old Seenauth Mohamed and 18 year-old Suraj Mohamed – of Vilvoorden, Essequibo Coast hospitalised.

The accident, which occurred around 07:58hrs on Friday, involved motorcar PVV 2033, which was driven by 34-year-old Danesh Narine of Anna Regina New Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast,

and motorcycle CE 8907, ridden by 34-year-old Seenauth Mohamed, who had Suraj Mohamed, 18, as his pillion rider.

The car and motorcycle were both proceeding north along the western lane of the road, when, according to the driver of the motorcar, he turned right onto the eastern side of the road as the motorcyclist attempted to overtake his vehicle and collided with the right side rear of the vehicle.

The motorcyclist and pillion rider, who fell onto the roadway as a result of the

collision, were picked up and taken to the Suddie Public Hospital where they were treated for their injuries and admitted.

During the accident, which was captured on CCTV camera, the motorcyclist sustained lacerations to the head while the pillion rider sustained a fractured left foot.

The car and motorcycle were lodged to be examined by a licence and certifying officer.The driver of the motorcar is in custody assisting with an investigation.

A screengrab from CCTV footage of the accident

A team from SBM Offshore and Chief Executive Officer of Hubu Aqua Farms, Sheik Rahman visited the site of the grow-out ponds at Hubu, EBE. Storage Offloading (FPSO) vessels being operated by the company offshore.

On April 5, a team from SBM Offshore comprising former General Manager, Francesco Prazzo; General Manager, Martin Cheong, and Sustainability and Social Impact Program D e v e l o p m e n t O f f i c e r, Recardo Bovell visited the hatchery that is under

development at Le Destin, EBE, and the location that is housing the farm at Hubu.

Mr. Cheong emphasised the company's commitment to creating positive opportunities for both present and future generations. He stressed that 'local content' is more than just a phrase for the company.

“One of the things in selecting projects is that we

really look for integration into the community and the supply chain. So, we're looking at vertical and horizontal integration into the economy”.

Chief Executive officer of Hubu Aqua Farms, Sheik Rahman noted that the support received from SBM Offshore has fueled the realisation of a lifelong (Continued on page 23)

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

President, Opposition Leader meet on appointments to Constitutional, Statutory Commissions …Govt. to provide CVs of nominees

O

pposition Leader Aubrey Norton is expected to meet with President Irfaan

Ali within one week to continue consultations relating to the appointment of persons to constitutional

and statutory commissions.

The Opposition Leader, following his first official meeting with the Head-of-

State, is also expected to receive the curriculum vitae (CV) of the nominated individuals within two days.

Norton told the media outside the Office of the President that the CVs of those named for the

President Irfaan Ali Commissions are important and in keeping with the Constitution and meaningful consultations. “We need CVs. The whole process of meaningful consultation has been defined in law,” Norton stated. He said that time will be used to assess the CVs so that his contribution could be made on the related subject.

In a joint statement to the media, it was noted that the consultation was initiated following correspondences under the hand of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira. Prior to yesterday's meeting, it was stated that a request was made by the Opposition Leader to have details on the persons to be appointed. The names of those subject to the consultations were provided.

Additionally, “…the President agreed to make those CVs available within two days. It was further agreed that the consultations will be guided by the Constitution and the inpersons consultations will resume on a date to be fixed, but within a week.”

The Commissions being looked at include the Integrity Commission, Judicial Service Commission, Police Service Commission, and Teaching Service Commission.

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

AG Chambers issues veiled threat to cut State ads from Kaieteur News

The current parking shed at the Ministry's office.

T

aking umbrage to an article in this newspaper which simply questioned the cost of a $8M parking shed, the Chambers of the Attorney General (AG) said that if the Legal Affairs Ministry were to stop advertising in the newspaper, there would be

complaints about an attack on the free press.

Kaieteur News has reported in the past that the PPP/C Government has weaponized the placement of State ads when media houses are too critical. This newspaper and the Stabroek News have suffered this fate

over the years.

Reference to the said tactic was made by the AG's Chambers via a press statement on Thursday, as it defended the building a shed to park vehicles with monies which can be used to house at least two poor families.

The Ministry said a

A $7.5M core home built by the government (Photo Credit: CH&PA) simple enquiry from the Ministry or an examination of the bid documents would have provided the relevant information that the reporter needed before penning an

article that dared to question the expenditure.

The story which KN published was motivated by an advertisement which was published by the Ministry, inviting bids to construct a parking shed at the said Ministry's office.

Sources told Kaieteur News that the Ministry is tearing down the old shed and is replacing it with a bigger one to accommodate more vehicles.

Even so, the source said the estimated amount is “ridiculous!”

“Why would you build a parking shed for such a high cost, when people can't get houses? Some persons have lands and can't even afford to build a house and you are spending $8M on a shed,” the source added.

The current structure is supported by at least 20 2×4 posts cemented to the ground and standing at an estimated height of at least 10 feet.

As the Ministry embarks on this project, it should be noted that the money, which was stated as the estimated cost, can build a 20 by 30 foot, turn-key home with inside toilet and bath facilities and still have a minimum of $3M remaining.

While defending the new shed which is estimated to cost $8M – amidst the tirade, the Chambers noted, “This must constitute one of the worst expressions of journalism, so frequently evident on the pages of this newspaper.

If the Ministry is to stop publishing advertisements in this newspaper, an attack on press freedom would be the cry!”It should be noted that the veiled threat to cut State ads from Kaieteur News is not new to the PPP

administration.

In 2019, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, in the capacity of Opposition Leader, stated that he believes that it is wrong for a Government to withhold state advertisements from newspapers.

H e h a d e v e n acknowledged that this was a practice his Government carried out when he served as President.

Jagdeo had also discussed the importance of certain international conventions on democracy and good governance, and the role of media in policing abuses of State resources.

According to reports, in 2006 Jagdeo's Government withheld State ads from the private newspaper in 2006, in an attempt to punish it for affording the fledgling Alliance For Change (AFC) regular column postings.

Stabroek News stated that the Jagdeo administration had refused to place a single State ad with the newspaper for 17 months, with no plausible explanation.

About the same period, Kaieteur News suffered a similar fate as Stabroek News as, according to KN's publisher, Glenn Lall, the Jagdeo Government had also meant to stifle this newspaper for its principled reporting.

At that time, the then President Jagdeo had claimed that his decision was because of his Government's intention to cost-effectively manage its use of State resources, and to explore other avenues for State advertising.

However, in October 2019, Jagdeo said that this was not a wise course of action.

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 21

LCDS 2030 Series Pt 5...

Guyana to expand low carbon economy by tapping critical ecosystem services programmes Since 2010, local authorities have focused much of their attention on the payment for performance mechanism centered on maintaining Guyana's forest carbon services. In fact, the process has proven to be a lucrative one with the country earning US$212M in a five year period via an arrangement with the Kingdom of Norway and financing which went back into implementing low carbon programmes including Amerindian development, solar energy, climate adaptation, and micro and small enterprises.

While Guyana is expected to continue with the marketing of its carbon services in the years to come, the scope is expected to be broadened as a means of growing the low-carbon economy. Towards this end, Guyana by way of its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 will examine several ecosystem services programmes that may be applicable to the country's circumstances.

For those who may not be aware, ecosystem functions are the full suite of services provided by the natural environment that are vital to human health and livelihoods. These services are the basis for the supply of food, drinking water and in some cases protection against the effects of natural disasters.

Some of these schemes the country is interested in investing in include those focused on freshwater management and biodiversity protection.

According to LCDS 2030, support will be given to the development of a national water management strategy for Guyana that addresses surface water, ground water, rain water, as well as watershed management.

Support will also be given to the development of a framework for leveraging Guyana's rich biodiversity and natural capital for social, economic, and environmental development in a low-carbon development trajectory.

Furthermore, the LCDS 2030 approaches development from an ecosystems approach, with Forestry and Biodiversity Protection integrated into the document.

The following interventions are expected to be included: Expansion and restoration of Guyana's mangrove forests and ecosystems.

Examination of Green-Grey Solutions (Engineered Infrastructure-Mangroves) utilising mangroves in Guyana's coastal protection.

Strengthening and expanding Guyana's National Protected Area System Maintenance of intact forest landscapes and watersheds.

Building local capacity for implementation of payment for ecosystem services mechanism ABOUT LCDS 2030 LCDS 2030 outlines how the Government of Guyana will accelerate economic growth and development in a non-polluting, low carbon way. It outlines how Guyana will utilize and monetize its natural resources such as its lush and pristine forests in a sustainable manner so as to combat the impacts of climate change.

The document also ensures the country's world-class forests, biodiversity, water, and marine resources are valued for the vital contribution they make to the health of the planet.

The current draft that was launched by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali in late 2021 is undergoing a period of consultation with citizens on how the nation can re-double its efforts towards achieving the outlined vision, the roots of which can be traced back to 2009.

In 2009, Guyana had launched the first Low-carbon Development Strategy as a developing country, setting out a vision for inclusive, sustainable development, while simultaneously maintaining the country's forests, about 85% of the country's territory, to help meet some of the most urgent challenges the world faces.

There is no doubt that Guyana intends to stay true to the vision set out in 2009 which is to create a model low-carbon economy for the world.

Since 2009 however, local authorities have gained a greater understanding of the outsized contribution Guyana's ecosystems make to the world's health and economy, as well as its role as one of the world's most important countries for biodiversity conservation.

Here are some interesting facts about the important role Guyana's forests play as noted in the LCDS 2030. · Guyana has the second-highest percentage of forest cover on earth and is working with partners to sustain 99.5% of that forest while building the foundation for a new low carbon, ecosystem economy. The government has said it expects to tap opportunities to access a market mechanism for forest climate services and other ecosystem services. This will enable Guyana to store 19.5 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (the measure used for greenhouse gas emissions). · Deforestation rates are among the lowest in the world and Guyana is one of only four countries in the world (and one of only two in the Amazon Basin) verified to have sustained a High Forest Low Deforestation (HFLD) state. · Guyana is one of four countries which host the Guiana Shield, one of the most pristine rainforest landscapes in the world. The Guiana Shield stores around 18% of the world's tropical forest carbon and 20% of the world's fresh water. · Guyana has already earned income for ecosystem services. Over the period 2010 to 2015, the Guyana Norway Agreement on climate and forests saw Guyana earning US$220 million which saw over 2,000 jobs created under the micro and small enterprise project; 180 communities and villages received funding to strengthen entrepreneurship in Amerindian village economies; the Amerindian Land Titling Programme advanced with 13 villages issued with Absolute Grants, bringing the total number of Absolute Grants to 109. Furthermore, 21 villages were demarcated, 19 were issued with certificates of title, bringing total Certificates of Title to 96. Additionally, more than 500 villagers were trained in Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), mediation and awareness exercises. Importantly, the Guyana Norway Agreement provided financing for the rehabilitation of the Cunha Canal, provided finance for the first utility-scale solar project in Guyana, and is financing the establishment of 200 ICT hubs in hinterland and rural areas.

LCDS 2030 is currently undergoing a period of national consultation. Once this is completed, the LCDS will be finalised and then tabled in the National Assembly.

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2022

PAGE 19

E-Networks now operates Guyana's largest - Kuru Kururu latest to Fiber-Optic Backbone benefit from 4G rollout S

ince Guyana's telecommunicatio ns sector's liberalisation in October 2020, E-Networks Inc. – the only locally owned telecommunications service provider - has massively expanded its network to bring better services to more people. Within 18 months, the provider has extended its fiber optic backbone to Berbice, Linden, and Essequibo, with the first-ever submarine fiber optic cable to Essequibo, creating the largest fiber-optic backbone in the country. In fact, ENetworks now connects more regions in Guyana via fiber than any other telecom provider Kaieteur News understands that the company has launched its 4G internet services in Kuru K u r u r u o n t h e Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

This move is an extension of the company's expansion to Linden, which saw a buildout of a fiber optic cable from Georgetown to the Mining Town in December 2021.

Residents of Kuru Kururu can now access the same fast, reliable, and affordable 4G Internet service available in Georgetown and other areas countrywide, delivering 20 Mbps of speed for $7,900 monthly.

E-Networks' Chief Executive Officer, Vishok Persaud noted that, with the country's largest fiber optic backbone, E-Networks has delivered a significant boost in fiber optic, 4G and 5G connectivity to six towns and many rural areas. The company has also rolled out substantially more reliable and improved internet services to places that exclusively relied on dated technologies, providing faster speeds than previously available – all at lower pricing.

He emphasised that all services countrywide are

An E-Networks team member on the ground engaging the community members.

From left: Marketing Coordinator of E-Networks, Ashley John; CCO, Abu Zaman; and Chief Executive Officer, Vishok Persaud

comparable, stating, “Whether you're in Georgetown, Kuru Kururu, Essequibo, Berbice or Linden, all our services are the same quality. We make sure all Guyanese have access to first-world technology regardless of where they are.”

Vice-Chairman of the Lamaha/Yarrowkabra NDC, Michelle DrepaulHarrinaraine, applauded the management of E-Networks for offering the service to the community.

“It is a necessity for residents, especially our students, as a number of them attend various universities through online classes, so it is beneficial to them and by

extension, the community,” Drepaul-Harrinaraine reasoned.

She added that prior to ENetworks, the poor internet caused immense inconvenience to students resulting in missed classes.

She said the community now looks forward to exceptional connectivity from ENetworks.

K u r u K u r u r u businessman Hubert Smith was keen to note that he recognised the importance of connectivity for his business.

“In this 21st century, connectivity is key in pushing our business forward and on that front, we are grateful to E-Networks.”

Wi t h i n t e r n e t a c c e s s

Attorney urges ExxonMobil to redo...

From page 13 installation of the offshore and onshore pipelines, is set to cost a whopping US$1.3B. The proposed project facilities will be comprised of three primary components, including the onshore and offshore pipeline and the NGL plant.

The Offshore pipeline component involves approximately 220 kilometers of a subsea pipeline extending from new subsea tie-ins at the Destiny and Unity FPSOs to a proposed shore landing, located approximately 3.5 kilometers west of the

mouth of the Demerara River.

The onshore pipeline, which is a continuation of the offshore pipeline, will extend linearly approximately 25 kilometers from the shore landing to a proposed NGL Plant.

Meanwhile, the NGL Plant and associated infrastructure (e.g., heavy haul road, temporary Material Offloading Facility, and worker camp) will be located approximately 23 kilometers upstream from the mouth of the Demerara River on the west bank.

becoming the crucial link to education, work, entertainment, and connecting with family and friends, especially during the pandemic, E-Networks, as the only 100% Guyanese company in the sector, has improved access, affordability, and quality of services to Guyanese across a wider geographical area.

These new areas include rural communities and not just towns or commercial hubs. For far too long, many parts of Guyana's coast, especially in the rural areas and Essequibo, have been neglected by the other providers.

And as such, E-Networks is also keen on ensuring that all areas can access the same

services at the same price point as available in Georgetown – bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas.

In 2021, E-Networks also focused on enhancing connectivity available to businesses and unveiled Guyana's fastest internet package: 1,000 Gbps, which rivals offerings available internationally and in the region. This connectivity enables Guyanese businesses to leverage cutting-edge technologies, such as the cloud and other platforms, to enhance productivity and efficiency, especially in the banking, financial, insurance and entrepreneurial industries.

Because of E-Networks' aggressive expansion during 2 0 2 1 , t h e telecommunications sector was able to derive tangible benefits from liberalisation – namely better services and lower pricing. Prior to the company's access to its own independent, international cable, Guyana's telecommunications sector

was plagued by oppressive pricing for substandard services. Post-liberalisation, Guyanese have benefited from E-Networks increasing internet speeds on the fastest package available in the market from 50 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps – a 1,900% increase – as well as reduced pricing.

Vishok Persaud also commented on the company's plans for 2022, which focus on stimulating positive changes in the market through competition – all for the ultimate benefit of the Guyanese consumer.

These include improving service availability to more Guyanese.

E-Networks also intends to continue its track record of being a company of "firsts" –the first to launch IPTV services, a fiber-to-the-home network, a Direct-to-Home satellite TV service, an indigenous subsea cable, and a 5G network – by introducing more progressive and innovative technologies and service models to the market.

PAGE 22

VACANCY

FOR RENT

VEHICLE FOR SALE

Bobby’s Reality,good for business–4.018 acres of prime land in New Amster dam, Berbice. Reduce Price.

Call: 679-2497.

One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable & 1 new super custom Hiace Bus 2.5M .Contact:649-0956.

2014 Kia Sportage,brand new excellent condition 49,000km $5.7M negotiable. Call:6697644.

LAND FOR SALE Double lot for lease or sale,Bent St.Call:661-2828.

Furnish house and land for sale on Ferry Street, New Amsterdam, Berbice.Call: 679-2497.

Specialized repairs/service refrigerator,washing machine, pressure pump, stove, treadmill,dryer,filteration system, deepfryer.Call:6949733.

Glasgow's Executive Cleaning Service.We offer residential and commercial cleaning & maid services. Call:6503133/672-6935.

FOR SALE Passion Fruits for sale.

Call:661-2828.

Stall on Merriman's Mall, Alexander St Entrance. Call: 658-3274.

Cases of Hand Sanitizer, 500ml for $300,100ml $75, Disinfecting Wipes 300 pcs in bucket for $2,500.Tel:6251514.

WANTED Housekeepers to work at Guest House age 20-45,shift system.Tel:225-6337/6680306/655-7405.

Cook,Kitchen Helper & Young man for Bar-B-Que Cook.Tel:629-2044.

Experienced general domestic vaccinated for Tue & Saturday, salary $3500 +250(travelling) between Enmore to Unity,259-0953/623-3231.

Farmer seeking workers to live on Pomeroon farm. Call: 661-2828.

Waitress to work in a bar live in.Must have ID card. Contact:659-1930 or 221-2785.

One experienced female able bodied sales clerk.Tel:2252313,226-1497.

One experienced male able bodied worker. Tel:225-2313, 226-1497.

1 experience housekeeper to work in Providence,age 40.

Tel:697-0157.

Pitman to work in Interior.

Call:223-7165/225-8645.

One live in babysitter needed.Contact Melissa on 693-6617 or 636-2310.

FOR RENT Business place to lease or rent,23 Saffon St G/Town. For more info contact:663-1876.

Apt for rent at La Grange W.B.D $45-50,000.Tel:6347487.

One,Two,Three bedroom apartment furnish & un furnish in Providence, Diamond, New Road,Vreed-enhoop.604-6664,682-6238, 216-2299.

Large supermarket and huge Bond in Cumberland, East Canje for sale or rent.Call:679 2497.Bobby's Reality.

Grade 2 Teachers,Secretary & Security Guards. Contact:6 49-8174.

Receptionist,Washer,Pressor & Hotel Attendant.Call:2310951,227-7714,223-3448 info@vgiworld.com.

TM Truck Driver,Maid to look after elderly person & Porter.Call Richard 609-7675/ 674-1705.

Accounts Clerk. Quick books knowledge & Accoun ting Experience. Tel: 6092995,email:survival. humanresources@gmail.com.

Inventory/Data Entry Clerks, with passport size picture.

Tel:609-2995,email: survival. humanresources@gmail. com.

PM Shift Cashiers.Math & Eng required.Tel:609-2995, 227-5286 email: survival. human resources @gmail.com.

PM Shift Sale Representatives. Tel:609-2995,227-5286 email:survival.humanresources @gmail. com.

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040.

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

Male & Female to work in factory. Apply to R.P's Ent.Area K LeRessouvenir E.C.D. Tel:220-2818.

S&S Security Service. Security Officers.Contact:6916081.

VACANCY One able body Porter, Handyman,age 20-35yrs.

Must be vaccinated photo & recommendation. Keyfood McDoom Village.

Security Officers.Tel:6092995, 227-5286 email: survival .humanresources@gmail.com.

Masons & Carpenters, wages $7,000-$10,000 per day.

Call:650-1394,650-1941.

Pump Attendant/Cashier, shifts (6am-2pm & 2pm-10 pm).Shell Station Providence E.B.D, email: Shell ramsburg @gmai.com.

2 Experienced hairdresser, location E.B.D.Contact:6770040.

Cleaner,Time keeping,Tool issuing clerk,2 security (night & day).Contact:621-6969/ 615-7784.

1 salesgirl/pharmacy assistant. Drop application at Patient Needs Pharmacy, stall 16-18 Section A Bourda, Phar patientneeds @ gmail.com.

Water Delivery Driver and Porter for E.C.D.Tel:676-1363/ 692-6768.

Teachers for Grade 5,preschool & janitors. Contact: 649-8174.

Millenium Manor Hotel,43 Hadfield St.1 experience housekeeper,come in with application.Call:223-0541/2.

Experienced Skidsteer (Bobcat)/Mini Excavator Operator.

Tel:623-2728,619-0898,6984321.

Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area.Call:615-9132 Female Cleaner for office.

Call:642-9823.

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATUREOF GUYANA COMMERCIAL JURIS DICTION2021-HC-DEMCIV-FDA-1468BETWEEN:

LEGAL NOTICE GUYANA WATER IN CORPORATED, a company incorporated in Guyana under the Companies Act 1991 of the Laws of Guyana and having its principal place of business at Vlissengen Road & Church Street, Bel Air, Georgetown Demerara Applicant -and-COAL POT RESTAURANTRespondent NOTICETO: COAL POT RESTAURANT 130 Carm ichael Street South Cumm ingsburg Georgetown.TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application, was filed against you on the 28 th day ofOctober, 2021 in the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature of Guyana at Georgetown, Demerara by GUYANA WATER IN CORPORATED, a company incorporated in Guyana under the Companies Act 1991 of the Laws of Guyana and having its principal place of business at Vlissengen Road & Church Street, Bel Air,Georgetown Demerara, in which the Applicant claims: The sum of $257,630.00 (two hundred and fifty-seven thousand six hundred and thirty dollars), being the sum due, owing and payable by theRespondent to the Applicant.Interest in the said sum at a rate of 6% per annum and 4% thereafter until the full sum is paid; Costs;Such further or other Order as the Court may deem just.UPON APPLICATION in person to Nigel Niles and/ or Anansa Swain, Attorneys-atLaw for the Applicant, whose address for service and place of business is at C/o Guyana Water Incorporated, Corporate Complex, Vlissengen Road and Church Street, Bel-Air, Georgetown, Guyana, Tele No. 592-225-0471 ext. 2300/ 2302 Email:- NigelN@gwi.ev and anansas@gwi.gy or the Supreme Court Registry, copies of the Fixed Date Application, filed herein, will be delivered or sent to you.

AND TAKE NOTICE if you desire to defend this action

you must forthwith within twenty-eight (28) days after the final publication of this notice, prepare an Affidavit in Defence in Form IOC prescribed in the Civil Procedure Rules 2016, serve it on the applicant’s Attorney-at-Law, Nigel Niles and/or Anansa Swain, Attorneys-at-Law for the Applicant, whose address for service and place of business is C/o Guyana Water Incorporated, Cor porate Complex, Vlissengen Road and Church Street, BelAir,Georgetown, Guyana, Tele No. 592-225-0471 ext.

2300/2302.Email:a n d annnsasáñgvi.gy and file it with proof of service at the Registry of the Supreme

LEGAL NOTICE Court at Georgetown, Demerara, not later than 4 days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your Attorneyat-Law must appear at the hearing.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that ifyou Fail to file such affidavit and or ifyou fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you not with standing your absence.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that this matter stand adjourned the Honourable Mr. Justice Franklin Holder on 14th day of June, 2022 at 9:00 am.

Dated this 29th day of April,2022.

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATUREPROBATE AND ADMINISTRATION LETTER OF AD MINI STRATION.In the mater of the Deceased Persons’ Estate Administration Act, Chapter 12:01 -and-In the matter ofthe Estate of GOBINPERSAUD, Deceased.-and-In the matter of an application by ROHAN PERSAUDLET GLORIA SHORTT of L0t 185 Char lotte and King street, Guyana and NEVAAPPLE of Lot 17 Croal Street, Georgetown, Guyana witnesses to the Last Will and Testament of GOBIN PERSAUD, deceased, who died on the 19 th day of March, 1986, at Georgetown Hospital to call at the chamber of MR. YOG ANAND PERSAUD, Att orney-at-law, whose add ress for service and place of business is at Room 1)7, First Floor, Maraj Building, 185 Charlotte and King Street, Georgetown, Demerara, Guyana.

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

Ministry records 36 new COVID-19 cases A

lthough there have been no recent deaths resulting from COVID-19, the Health Ministry is continuing to echo the call for persons to remain guarded given the fact that 36 new cases have been recorded within the last

assessed 24-hour period.

The Ministry's dashboard on Friday revealed that the 36 new cases were recorded across three regions – four in Region Two, 19 in Region Four and 13 in Region Six. This has increased the total number of confirmed cases

to 63,772.

Also, the number of persons in institutional isolation has doubled, now 12, when compared to the previous day while the total home isolation has increased by 11, now 249. Meanwhile, the number of persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care

PAGE 23

SBM inks deal with Guyanese...

From page 17 dream. Rahman expressed his gratitude, sharing that lack of support in the past made the venture impossible to rollout, until he approached SBM Offshore.

“SBM Offshore was approached and after talking to them and showing them the potential of how it can benefit the country, we were able to get a grant from SBM Offshore which is what propelled this whole thing and made it all possible,” Mr. Rahman said.

The project will entail the operationalisation of a soon-to-be-complete hatchery that will utilise advanced technology for the f a c i l i t y ' s management—including the sustainable use of recycled water and solar energy.

The project will allow for quality brood stock to be provided to local aquafarmers who are being trained in rearing shrimp and prawn. Some 25 'grow-out'

ponds for rearing of crustaceans will be developed.

Furthermore, this newspaper understands that the project is aligned with the United Nations SDGs that pursue good health and wellbeing (SDG Three), the provision of decent work and economic growth (SDG Eight), as well as industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG Nine).

The Project will also provide significant opportunities to develop sustainable work for local aqua-farmers and strengthen the overall aquaculture sector.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, H u b u Aqua Farms will engage a network of local farmers and rural workers to promotes inclusivity in economic growth.

It will also offer a reliable and high-quality product without seasonality.

Mr. Rahman stated.

“We're hoping that when there is a processing plant, it

will employ a minimum of 100 people in the community—mostly women who are underprivileged and cannot get work.”

Mr. Rahman opined that the farm will be historical for Guyana and expressed his gratitude to SBM Offshore for their proven dedication to sustainable development.

Mr. Bovell, who plays a leading role in such projects, said the initiative is in tandem with the company's goal of positively impacting local communities.

“A lot of what we do, is to look at where SBM Offshore can make an impact in the communities, and this project ticks all of those boxes and will not only impact one farmer but will also provide opportunities for wider development within these communities as well as developing technical capabilities within the industry,” he concluded.

Oral arguments in challenge...

Govt. cherry picking reform...

From page 3 passed the highly amended Natural Resources Fund Act (NRF Act) in December 2021, which gives it control over how the oil money is to b e s p e n t .

T h e administration even amended a small part the nation's 1986 oil law so as to ensure ExxonMobil has a smooth flow with lands to be used or disrupted during the construction of the gas-toenergy project and other initiatives.

It was last year August Members of Parliament had debated and passed the Petroleum (Production and Exploration) Amendment Bill-2021, which ensures oversight by the government during the acquisition of private lands by a licensee for major oil projects.

Significantly, it ensures that there is proper compensation for citizens when such lands are acquired.

Kaieteur News had

reported that the amendments to the Bill were made in the name of Minister Bharrat. During the second reading of the Bill, the Minister noted that the amendments occur at Section 52 of the Principal Act to enhance the Government's management of the development of the petroleum sector onshore.

He had said it provides additional scope for the Minister to oversee the exercise of a licensee's rights over private land and will further strengthen and protect private proprietary interests as enshrined in the Constitution.

Mr. Bharrat said the amendments would also apply to existing licensee operations as well as those who may wish to join the race for oil in Guyana in the future.

In light of the cherrypicking approach, government appears to have

taken with legislative reform for the oil sector, international lawyer Melinda Janki yesterday cited the need for Guyana to do better on this front.

Janki categorically stated that the country needs stronger rules to guarantee transparency, accountability, impartiality, and independence in Guyana's oil and gas sector.

Janki even called on citizens to defend grave financial and economic threat that are posed by the determination to the oil and gas under an exploitive and abusive contract.

A t t o r n e y - a t - L a w, Christopher Ram, in a previous interview with this newspaper had also hammered home the importance of this crucial regulator while bemoaning the seeming unwillingness of the current government to get the ball rolling on this matter.

From page 15 and Minister of Legal Affairs, Roysdale Forde, and attorney-at-law, Selwyn A. Pieters, highlights 'deficiencies' of the procedure undertaken to pass the NRF law. The court case highlights the absence of the Speaker's original Mace – the ceremonial instrument used in the process of passing legislations—during the passage of the NRF Bill.

The Opposition is seeking several declaratory orders of the High Court that the conduct and/or proceedings of the National A s s e m b l y, d u r i n g t h e passage of the NRF Bill on December 29, 2021 in the absence of the Mace, constitute a breach of the Constitution, Common Law, and the Standing Orders of the National Assembly.

Further, the Opposition is asking the Court to declare the holding and or continuation of proceedings of the National Assembly on December 29, 2021 with the use of a replacement mace without any approved motion to do so as ultra vires [beyond the powers] of the Constitution and the event null and void.

Moreover, the party is seeking a declaration that the Government failed to engage in any or sufficient consultation with the citizenry and stakeholders as required and mandated by the Constitution in the design of the NRF policy.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e coalition wants a declaration

that the decision of the Speaker to permit and allow the passage of the NRF Bill without affording or permitting any MP, inclusive of Jones, to participate in the debate on the Bill is ultra vires of the Constitution, democracy, and inclusive governance.

As a result, the party wants a series of orders declaring that for the reasons set out in its application, the Natural Resource Fund Act 2021 Act No. 19 of 2021 and the sub sequential orders and regulations made pursuant to it, is null and void and of no force and effect.

C o n s e q u e n t l y, t h e APNU+AFC wants an order

declaring that all actions taken by anyone, including the Minister of Finance, upon the date the Act came into force, is null and void and of no force and effect.

Added to this, the party wants an order declaring that any constitution of any board under the Natural Resource Fund Act No.19 of 2021 is null and void and of no legal effect.Further, the Opposition is asking the Court to grant any other order necessary to ensure that the NRF be replenished to the extent that any sums of monies in the said NRF that were disbursed and or taken out, pursuant to the passage of the NRF Act.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2022

Saturday May 14, 2022

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Swiatek beats Andreescu in Rome for 26th consecutive win

(Reuters) - World number one Iga Swiatek extended her winning run to 26 matches with a 7-6(2) 6-0 victory over Bianca Andreescu in the quarter-finals of the Italian Open yesterday.

Swiatek, who has put together the longest winning run since Serena Williams racked up 27 straight victories in 2015, will face Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals in Rome.

The 2020 French Open champion is seeking her fifth title this season, having won on hard courts in Doha, Indian Wells, Miami and on clay in Stuttgart.

Swiatek faced a stern chal-

lenge in the opening set from 2019 U.S. Open champion Andreescu, who returned to action last month following a six-month mental health hiatus.

Trailing 5-3 and with Swiatek serving for the set, Andreescu broke to stay alive in the contest and forced it to a tiebreak, where the Canadian could not keep up with the topranked Pole.

Swiatek earned a quick double break to lead 3-0 in the second set before holding her serve and breaking Andreescu once again. The 20-year-old eventually handed Andreescu a second-

Poland’s Iga Swiatek reacts during her quarter final match against Canada’s Bianca Vanessa Andreescu. (REUTERS/Alberto Lingria) set bagel, wrapping up the tempt, beating the Amerimatch in one hour and 44 min- can 4-6 6-3 6-2.

Tunisian Ons Jabeur, utes.

Earlier, Belarusian who won in Madrid last Sabalenka recovered from a week, will play Greek fourth set down to notch her first seed Maria Sakkari later on win over A m a n d a Friday and Jil Teichmann will Anisimova in her fifth at- face Daria Kasatkina.

NBA play-offs...

Saturday May 14, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today is the day to rethink all those social values that you take at face value, Aries. Like the rest of us, you learned them at a young age and unthinkingly accepted them.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Today is an ideal day to shop for a new wardrobe, Taurus.

You may find your usual style either too conventional or uncomfortably trendy.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) The topic of the day is knowledge and learning, Gemini. Did you study the field you dreamed of? Do you feel ashamed of not having attended such-andsuch a school or program.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) An important aspect has passed, and you are in the process of reaping the benefit from it, Cancer. It was only a matter of becoming aware of and settling certain matters.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You may feel hemmed in by the role models that society currently offers, Leo. As you struggle to find your own definition of the truly modern human being.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Today's aspects are suggesting that you take a good hard look at the state of your ego, Virgo. Are you too proud or too humble.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A small crisis is still a crisis, isn't it, Libra? Expect one in your personal life today.

Since you aren't one to let issues go unresolved.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Something has to change, Scorpio. You knew it as soon as you woke up this morning. Your mirror provides the impetus for some important resolutions. .

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) The only good thing about being on an emotional roller coaster is that you never feel the same way for long, Sagittarius. One moment you're up, the next you're down.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You might want to check your alarm clock to be sure it really woke you up this morning, Capricorn. Your tendency will be to stay in the cocoon of your own little dream world, deep in your own thoughts.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) There is something in the air today pushing you toward change or renewal, Aquarius. Is it time to change your wardrobe or redecorate your home? If so, this is the day.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) The good news is it can only get better. For today, however, there may be some trying times in store, Pisces.

If you're a parent, the children will beg for something every five minutes.

From page 30 will take place in Phoenix tomorrow, Sunday.

All six games so far have been won by the team playing at home.

Slovenian star Doncic also recorded 11 rebounds, eight assists and four steals in a comfortable win for his side.

His tally meant he has scored more than 30 points for the third time in the series, while he has provided more than 25 points in all six games.

“For me, this team is special,” said Doncic. “These are great guys and we play hard and we help each other so that’s what gives me hope.”

The winner of the Mavericks and the Suns will play either the Golden State Warriors or the Memphis Grizzlies in the Western Conference finals. The Warriors lead that series 3-2. In the Eastern Conference finals, Miami will play either the Milwaukee Bucks or the Boston Celtics.

The Bucks, who won the NBA title last season, lead their play-off series 3-2.

“We’re not scared of nobody,” the Heat’s Butler told ESPN. “Everybody has been prepared for this all year.”

Dominoes action set for May 22 at Melanie Next Level in association with Cigars and Cognac will be hosting a d o m i n o e s t o u r n a m e n t o n M a y 22 at Cigars and Cognac Eco bar and Longue, Melanie, East Coast Demerara.

Action commences at 13:00hrs and entrance fee is $15,000.

The winning team will take home a trophy and $250,000, runner up a trophy and $100,000, third place a trophy and $50,000 and fou r t h place $30,000.

The MVP will take home a trophy $10,000 and the players that share the first love will receive $5,000.

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Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

GCB’ Snr Women’s T20 Inter-County cricket

B’ce crush E’bo by 9 Wkts, Dem beat Select XI by 89 runs

By Sean Devers at Albion On day drenched with sunshine at Albion, Demerara, led by 45 from skipper Cherry Ann Fraser and 47, including a hat-trick, from Latisha Jordon beat the Select XI by 89 runs, while Berbice spearheaded by good bowling from left-arm spinner Diana Prahlad hammered Essequibo by nine wickets on day one of the GCB’ Senior Women’s T20 Inter-County tournament at Albion yesterday.

In the first match, Fraser’s 45 lasted 40 balls and included six boundaries and got support from fellow West Indies batter Mandy Mangru (21) and Latoya Smith (20) and 35 extras led Demerara to 139-5.

National U-19 off-spinner Niveena Ramnauth took 2-24 from four overs for the Select XI wh o w e r e bowled out for 50.

Off-spinner Jordon, who removed Renita Liverpool (3), Ramnauth

Demerara skipper Cherry Ann Fraser bats during her top score of 45 yesterday at Albion. (Sean Devers photo)

Player of the Match Berbice vs Essequibo Dian Prahald receiving from Angela Hanif.

(0) and Fanelia Narine (0) in consecutive deliveries, finished with 4-7, while Guyana left-arm spinner Kaysia Shultz took 3-11.

In t h e a f t e r n o o n e n c o u n t e r, Essequibo elected to bat on a slow track which kept low and were dismantled for 30

with extras contributing 21 of those runs as Prahald, Plaffiana Millington and Ashmini Munisar took two wickets each.

After losing Shanetta Grimmond for two at 4-1 pretournament favourites Berbice galloped to 34 when

Shabika Gajnabi pulled Kumari Persaud for four to finished the lop-sided contest and end unbeaten on 14.

With her was Sherica Campelle on six.

The tournament continues today with another double header at Everest from 9:30 AM.

Saturday May 14, 2022

Sri Lanka focused on Bangladesh Tests despite turmoil at home

Sri Lanka’s coach Mickey Arthur speaks to his players during a practice session in Dhaka earlier this week. (AFP/Munir uz ZAMAN) AFP - Sri Lanka’s cricketers are hoping to distract their fans from political turmoil back home when they take on Bangladesh in a two-Test series starting this weekend.

The first Test of the series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship, starts on Sunday at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chittagong.

Sri Lanka’s long-running economic and political crisis turned violent this week with at least nine people killed and several hundred injured in clashes.

Assistant coach Naveed Nawaz told reporters in Dhaka that the players have so far been able to focus on preparing for a tough series.

“So far I don’t think it (the political turmoil) has affected us,” the Sri Lankan said.

“Most of the cricketers are continuing to do their hard work. Their training has been ongoing for a couple of months,” he said.

“It will be very good for us to take some positives back home. We want to keep inspiring the young generation of the country.”

Nawaz knows well the threat the home side bring — he helped develop highly promising Bangladesh players such as Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shoriful Islam when he coached their side to the Under-19 World Cup title in 2020.

“I think those boys are really good players. One day they will be legends of Bangladesh cricket. They are so good,” Nawaz said.

Shoriful is expected to lead Bangladesh’s bowling

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Kaieteur News

attack in the absence of several key players.

Pace bowler Taskin Ahmed and spinner Mehidy Hasan are injured while star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, while cleared to play, is recovering from Covid-19.

With Bangladesh’s spin attack hit by the absence of Mehidy and uncertainty over Shakib, the team’s fast bowling coach Allan Donald urged his charges to be creative.

“They know what to expect. But the overall patience and persistence and creativity that we bring is going to be testing,” the former South African quick said on Thursday.

“When the ball gets old, the reverse-swing issue needs to come in. So it is a step-by-step process. It is going to be testing.

“Discipline, mental and creativity is going to be huge,” he said.

The second Test will be in Dhaka from May 23.

The two teams are close in the ICC Test rankings with Sri Lanka in seventh place and Bangladesh ninth.

Bangladesh drew 1-1 in New Zealand in January but were well beaten 2-0 in their series in South Africa in April.

Sri Lanka lost 2-0 in India in March but beat the West Indies at home by the same margin in November.

Bangladesh Squad: Mominul Haque (Capt), Tamim Iqbal, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Najmul Hossain, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Liton Das, Yasir Ali, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Ebadot Hossain,

Khaled Ahmed, Quazi Nurul Hasan, Rejaur Rahman, Shohidul Islam, Shoriful Islam.

Sri Lanka squad: Dimuth Karunaratne (captain), Kamil Mishara, Oshada Fernando, Angelo Mathews, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, Dinesh Chandimal, Ramesh Mendis, Chamika Karunaratne, Suminda Lakshan, Kasun Rajitha, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Praveen Jayawickrama, Lasith Embuldeniya.

Zverev sets up semi-final clash with Tsitsipas in Rome (Reuters) - World number three Alexander Zverev remained on course to claim his first title of the season after overcoming Cristian Garin at the Italian Open yesterday to set up a semi-final showdown with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who saw off home favourite Jannik Sinner.

Zverev, who won the title in Rome in 2017, eased into the last four with a 7-5 6-2 win over Garin in the pair’s first meeting since the Chilean upset him on home soil en route to winning the ATP 250 event in Munich three years ago.

Garin, the only unseeded player remaining, had the first break point of the match at 32 but Zverev squirmed his way out of it and broke his 25-year-old opponent to take a 4-3 lead and, after some poor shot selection, closed out a gritty opening set.

Zverev comfortably won the second set after Garin dropped serve in his first game, converting two out of his seven break points to wrap up the victory.

“I think it was a high level match, at times it wasn’t pretty tennis but I got the job done and that’s the most important thing,” said Zverev, who is yet to drop a set in Rome.

The 25-year-old German will face Tsitsipas in the semifinals of an ATP tournament for the third time in the space of a month, after the world number five kept his composure in front of a raucous crowd to hold off Sinner for a 7-6(5) 6-2 victory.

Germany’s Alexander Zverev reacts during his quarter final match against Chile’s Cristian Garin. (REUTERS/Alberto Lingria) In an entertaining opening lasting nearly an hour and a half, Tsitsipas raced to a 3-0 lead and Sinner battled back to draw level before the Greek edged it on the tiebreak.

Tsitsipas cruised through the second set and, after a stoppage in play at match point when a spectator fell ill, dealt with Sinner’s miscalculated drop shot to triumph.

The 23-year-old beat Zverev in Monte Carlo before clinching the title in April before the German avenged his defeat in Madrid last week.

“He’s a player that challenges me when I’m out on the court,” Tsitsipas said of Zverev. “He has a lot of experience on the tour, much ear-

lier than when I started playing here.

“We have similar game styles but he is one of the most difficult players on the tour... I have a lot of respect for him. He has achieved a lot so far and I try and look up to him.”

Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud continued his good form on European clay as he saved two set points against Canada’s Denis Shapovalov for a hard-fought 7-6(7) 7-5 win.

Ruud plays either world number one Novak Djokovic or Canadian eighth seed Felix AugerAliassime for a place in the final.

PAGE 28

Russian court extends U.S. basketball player Griner’s detention (Reuters) - A Russian court yesterday extended the pre-trial detention of U.S. professional basketball player Brittney Griner by one month, her lawyer told Reuters.

Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, was arrested in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport, allegedly in possession of cannabis-infused vaporizer cartridges.

The Russian customs service said at the time that the alleged offence could carry a 5-10 year jail term. The U.S. State Department has said that the 31-year-old was wrongfully detained, and has assigned diplomats to work for her release.

A U.S. Embassy consular officer attended yesterday’s hearing and spoke to Griner, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said.

“The officer was able to confirm that Brittney Griner is doing as well as can be expected under what can only be described as exceedingly difficult circumstances,” Price said.

Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

Brittney Griner of the United States gestures during a game against Australia at Saitama Super Arena in their Tokyo 2020 Olympic women’s basketball quarterfinal game in Saitama, Japan August 4, 2021.

(REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo) Washington and Moscow have kept diplomatic channels open since Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine, despite the dire state of bilateral relations.

They agreed a prisoner swap last month that saw U.S. Marine veteran Trevor Reed freed from prison in Russia, where he had been serving a nine-year sentence on assault

charges.

He was exchanged for Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian pilot who had been serving a 20-year sentence in the United States after being convicted of drug trafficking.

Russia continues to hold Paul Whelan, another U.S. Marine veteran who was sentenced to 16 years in prison for espionage in 2020.

Some Qatar hotels won’t accept same-sex couples despite FIFA promises - report

Qatar World Cup hotels must welcome guests in ‘non-discriminatory manner,’ FIFA says (Reuters) - Hotels that are on the official list of recommended accommodation for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar are required to welcome guests in a “non-discriminatory manner” or face termination of contracts, FIFA said yesterday.

A Scandinavian media survey showed that three of the 69 hotels on FIFA’s official list of recommended accommodation will deny entry to same-sex couples.

Twenty other hotels said they would accommodate them as long as they did not publicly show that they were gay, while 33 hotels had no issues on booking same-sex couples.

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, which will host the World Cup from Nov. 21 to Dec. 18.

In a statement to Reuters, FIFA said that, since being made aware of the report, it has been in touch with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) and “will ensure that the hotels mentioned are once again made aware of our strict requirements in relation to welcoming guests in a non-discriminatory manner.

“Hotels, as well as any other service provider associated with the FIFA World Cup, who fail to comply with the high standards set by the organisers will have their contracts terminated.

“On top of that, the said requirements will continue to be reinforced in awareness raising sessions and subse-

A view of the World Cup Trophy during an event marking “200 Days To Go” ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, in Doha, Qatar May 6, 2022. (REUTERS/Imad Creidi) quently monitored and evaluated through audits and inspections of hotels linked to the FIFA World Cup. “Qatar is fully aware of its responsibility to adhere to FIFA’s expectations and requirements on human rights, equality and non-discrimination. Qatar is committed to ensuring that everyone will be able to enjoy the tournament in a safe and welcoming environment, to building bridges of cultural understanding and to creating an inclusive experience for all participants, attendees and local communities, including from the LGBTQI+ community.”

The SC said on Thursday that Qatar is a “conservative country” but was “committed to delivering an inclusive FIFA World Cup experience

that is welcoming, safe and accessible to all”.

Wyndham Grand Regency Doha, The Torch Doha and Magnum Hotel & Suites Westbay were the three hotels mentioned in the report.

“While observing and respecting the law of Qatar, Wyndham Grand Regency Doha does not in any way discriminate against guests of any background and aspires to deliver the highest guest satisfaction, which will only be possible by treating everyone fairly and equally,” the hotel told Reuters.

The Torch referred to the SC statement when asked about their policy for samesex couples, while Magnum Hotel & Suites did not respond immediately to a Reuters request for comment.

‘People are saying he’s washed’ Event marking “200 Days To Go” ahead of 2022 FIFA World Cup, in Doha.

(Reuters) - Three hotels in Qatar will refuse to accommodate same-sex couples when people travel to the Gulf country for the World Cup this year despite FIFA’s assurances they will be allowed to book rooms, a Scandinavian media survey has discovered.

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar and a report by Norwegian Broadcaster NRK, Sweden’s SVT and Denmark’s DR showed three of the 69 hotels on FIFA’s official list of recommended accommodations will deny entry to same-sex couples.

The three hotels did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Twenty other hotels said they would accommodate them as long as they did not publicly show that they were

gay. Thirty-three hotels had no issues on booking samesex couples.

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) at the World Cup said Qatar is a “conservative country” but was “committed to delivering an inclusive FIFA World Cup experience that is welcoming, safe and accessible to all”.

They added, however, that they would take action against hotels that do not comply.

“More than 100 hotels in Qatar that will accommodate visiting football fans, players, officials and other core stakeholders, will be required to comply with the Sustainable Sourcing Code,” a spokesperson for the SC told Reuters.

“As a result, hotel operators complying with the Sus-

tainable Sourcing Code are subsequently monitored and evaluated.

The SC treats any violation of this code or instance of discrimination with the utmost seriousness.

“We would welcome further information on these allegations to ensure any partner associated with the FIFA World Cup does not fall short of the standards expected.”

England manager Gareth Southgate had previously voiced his concerns, stating in March that he was unhappy some fans will not feel safe travelling to the event due to concerns over human rights issues in the country.

The World Cup in Qatar will take place from Nov. 21 to Dec. 18.

- former Windies fast bowler Bishop believes struggling Pollard has more in tank SportsMax - West Indies fast bowler turned commentator Ian Bishop does not believe recently retired Windies skipper Kieron Pollard is washed-up but insists the time has come for the player to adjust his game.

Typically, a reliable source of runs for five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians, Pollard has struggled mightily to make an impact this season.

In 11 IPL matches so far, the big West Indian has scored just 144 runs at an average of 14.40 and with a strike rate of 107.46. The ball-striking tally is the player’s lowest since he made his debut in the IPL in 2010.

Having retired from international cricket a few weeks ago, some have suggested that it might be time for Pollard to take another step in moving away from the sport entirely. While acknowledg-

Kieron Pollard

ing that he has struggled in the tournament this season, Bishop believes the player could still have a bit more left in the tank.

“People are saying he’s washed, I’m not going to go there. I think he’s a player who can reinvent himself,” Bishop told Espncricinfo.

“You look at Pollard’s numbers when Mumbai have won the championships: 400 runs in 2013 at 42, up to 2019 and 2020, where he averaged over 30 with a strike rate some-

times in the 160s to 190s - he’s been integral to them. You can’t forget that as a franchise, so they’re giving him every possible chance,” he added.

Despite the franchise choosing to stick with the veteran player, however, Bishop insists it’s up to Pollard to adjust.

“Pollard himself has to reinvent his game, however, he chooses to do that, because he’s still got a future ahead of him we hope.”

Saturday May 14, 2022

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Kaieteur News

Manchester City fined for GCOS Independence 5km race ‘improper’ behaviour set for National Park tomorrow at Atletico Madrid

Man City and Atletico Madrid players clashed after Felipe’s red card. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Manchester City have been fined 14,000 euros (£11,910) for the “improper conduct of the team” during the Champions League draw with Atletico Madrid last month. City qualified for the last four after a goalless quarter-final second leg.

Atletico defender Felipe’s sending-off after a foul on Phil Foden sparked a confrontation involving both sets of

players and coaching staff.

The disciplinary committee of governing body Uefa has not punished Atletico.

During the incident former City defender Stefan Savic appeared to pull Jack Grealish’s hair before confronting the England forward after the game.

Atletico had been ordered to close part of their stadium prior to City’s visit before

successfully appealing against Uefa’s decision.

Uefa had ordered Atletico to close at least 5,000 seats at the Wanda Metropolitano in response to “discriminatory behaviour” by Atletico fans during the first leg in Manchester.

That punishment was overturned after a request to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

IBA President propose to postpone elections to May 14

Attendees at the IBA Congress in Istanbul.

The International Boxing Association (IBA) Extraordinary Congress concluded the first of two days of meetings in Istanbul earlier yesterday.

Of 165 eligible members, 142 were in attendance in person in Istanbul, while 8 joined online.

Elections for the positions of President and independent members of the Board of Directors of IBA remain scheduled for the current IBA Extraordinary Congress, in accordance with constitutional requirements. As the only candidate ruled eligible to stand for the position of President, IBA President Umar Kremlev proposed that yesterday’s meeting would

end once it reached the agenda item featuring elections.

In the evening of 12 May, IBA received a copy of a petition on behalf of Boris van der Vorst, who had been ruled ineligible to stand for the Presidency of IBA by the independent Interim Nominations Unit. The petition asked CAS to suspend the elections for the position of President on 13 May. “Fairness is very important for me and for this reason, the IBA Election for President will not take place today,” said IBA President Umar Kremlev. “This will allow for CAS and for the ineligible candidates time to do their legal work.”

Key points in the agenda for the day included a report from Secretary General Istvan Kovacs. His report covered the development of the Olympic Qualification System for the boxing tournament of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in conjunction with the IOC. Kovacs also gave an update on the Financial Support Programme, with more than $1.5 million dollars distributed to the Continental Confederations and the National Federations. Sport integrity was discussed, with continued emphasis on improving processes including the selection, vetting and appointment of referees and judges at IBA tournaments.

Almera Grannum (left) hands over the Payless’ contribution to Avril Black, who received on behalf of the GCOS. The National Park will play host to the Guyana Committee of Services 5km Independence Run and Walk race tomorrow, Sunday, May 15th.

Organizers have set the categories for seniors and

juniors. The under-12 athletes will do one lap around the park, while senior and masters’ athletes will tackle a 10K run. Attractive incentives will be awarded to the top three performers in each

category. The event has garnered some support from corporate Guyana pitching in to help in the smooth running of the event. Included among the sponsors is Payless Variety Store.

Competitive day expected at GAPLF Masters/ Intermediate championships tomorrow - Fitness Expresses on board

By Zaheer Mohamed An aggressive day is expected as athletes will put their competitive strength to test in their quest for podium spots when the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation stage its Masters/ Intermediate power lifting championships tomorrow, Sunday at St. Stanislaus College.

Athletes from Essequibo and Berbice will rub shoulders with their counterparts from Demerara as months of rigid training will boil down to a few hours of evaluation where competitors’ fitness, form endurance and mental toughness will play an important role in their performance.

The Berbicians have been producing some sterling performances over the years and a lot is expected of them once again, while the Essequibo athletes have shown a lot of promise and kept improving their game.

Among those expected to break records in the Masters category are Arnold Archer Master 4, 83 years old Richard Fredericks Master 3 , 67 years old Homwatti Hirawan M1, Ramesh Seeharran M1 93kg and Lalita Bridgemohan M1 72kg from Essequibo.

Fans can also look forward to see Winston Stoby, Nigel Phillips, Toni Ferreira, Marlon

Nigel Phillips

Wilson, Marley, Vyphius, Ashlie Abraham and Sarah Goptar.

Meanwhile, Fitness Expresses once again showed its unwavering support for powerlifting in Guyana. The fitness equipment and nutrition supplement giant have demonstrated a true commitment to the development of a healthy Guyana.

Through the most invaluable contributions throughout the years Fitness Express proprietor Jamie McDonald has seen powerlifting through thick and thin times.

He presented a cheque to the GAPLF yesterday.

The GAPLF would like to thank Fitness Express for its most generous contributions to the sport, the athletes and the development of new initiatives in development of sports in general.

The GAPLF wishes the management and staff of Fitness Express great success in their business endeavors.

The GAPLF also expressed gratitude to the management and staff of Banks DIH for their input as well as other sponsors.

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Saturday May 14, 2022

Kaieteur News

Amazon Kings excited for this year’s tournaments

Bairstow and Livingstone star as Punjab Kings dent Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL play-off hopes

- Canada-based Guyanese Legay Captain of Amazon Kings Dennis Legay is cautiously optimistic of his team making a big impression this year in various competitions across the Greater Toronto Area.

Amazon Kings will begin things today against Toronto United in the Mississauga Cricket League’s T20 Super-8 tournament.

According to the former Guyana under-15 player Legay, his team, which is loaded with a bunch of exGuyana cricketers, is “excited” to get on the field having featured in the championship game last year.

“I am confident that our payers will give a good account this time having played in the final last year; we are motivated, excited and ready to go,” Legay assured.

Legay also informed that Amazon Kings will be participating in the forthcoming Unity Cup T20 extravaganza from May 20th to 23rd in Brampton where teams will be vying for a first prize of Cds $15,000.

“Yes, there are lots of tournaments for this year and with the formation of the club in 2021, I have seen tremendous interest by my fellow Guyanese cricketers who are now residing in Canada and want to play the game professionally so I am heartened to see we can play as a group,” Legay, the left-arm orthodox spinner, related.

Some players who represented Guyana at different levels and included in the Amazon Kings side are: Dillon

Dennis Legay

Punjab Kings wait on the verdict of a DRS review. (BCCI) Heyliger, Jeremey Gordon, Royston Crandon, Farook Hussain, Harrinarine Chattergoon, Devon Ramnauth and Eugene Lafleur while Abdool Samad and Aftab Shamsudeen are Guyanese who played for Canada internationally.

Legay, who started his cricketing career at prominent Georgetown’s base club Malteenoes Sports Club, stated that team is very formidable and full of talents and banking heavily on their experience as well.

“I came up with the idea during the Covid time in 2021 to form a cricket team with my West Indian cricket peers; I first called Elton Baker and Heyliger to share what I was thinking and the more people I called the more excited I

got and everyone was very supportive from then and these are all experienced cricketers and to reach in the final last year was commendable and now I am confident they would want to make a big impact this year,” Legay declared.

Legay said he would like to thank the president Shameer Ali and manager Rambo Purnwasi for their support and assistance in every way to build the team along with his good friend Rex Collymore.

Legay has also acknowledged the generosity of the team’s sponsors: Crown, ALARM TECHZ, KP Employment Solutions Inc, Pizza Pizza (Mattew), Caribbean Lyme Restaurant, Ellite Plastering Inc, Revivi Auto Collision Inc and We Want Electric Ontario Inc.

NSC Three-Stage Cycle race pedals off today in Berbice The Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) National Sports Commission Independence Youth and Culture three-stage road race commences today in Berbice.

The event is expected to be keenly contested and will pedal off at 07:30hrs in the Town of Corriverton and proceeds to New Amsterdam for the finish, covering a distance of 40 miles. At 14:00 hours also

today, the second Stage will commence at New Amsterdam and proceeds to Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, for the finish, spanning a distance of 60 miles.

On Sunday at 07:30hrs the 3rd Stage will pedal off in the Mining Town of Linden and culminate in Georgetown on Homestretch Avenue, a distance of 65 miles. The presentation of prizes will be done at the conclusion of this stage.

This event encompasses the Elite, Open, Veterans, Juniors and Ladies categories. A Suriname Team will be competing in this event.

Among those expected to battle for supremacy are Briton John, Jamual John, Paul DeNobrega, Raynauth Jeffrey, Christopher Griffith, Suzanne Hamilton, Shenika Teixeira and Aneisha Crandon.

(Zaheer Mohamed)

SportsMax - Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone produced their best displays of the Indian Premier League season to lead the Punjab Kings to a dominant win over the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

The England duo each hit half-centuries as the Kings hit 209-9, before Kagiso Rabada (3-21), Rishi Dhawan (2-36), and Rahul Chahar (2-37) wrecked RCB’s top-order.

Glenn Maxwell’s 35 marked the best individual performance of Bangalore’s chase, as they finished 54 runs short of the Kings’ tally.

With 14 points, RCB’s place in the play-offs now looks vulnerable ahead of their final clash with tabletopping Gujarat Titans, while the Kings kept their own hopes of a top-four finish

alive with two games left to play. Having been put in to bat by Faf du Plessis, Punjab quickly set about building a tough target, reaching 60 before their first loss when Shikhar Dhawan went for 21.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa followed, but that simply allowed Livingstone to step up and produce a terrific display alongside Bairstow, who struck 66 from 29 balls before falling to Shahbaz Ahmed in the 10th over.

Livingstone plundered a rapid 70 to ensure the Kings recovered, and RCB’s hopes were severely dented when Virat Kohli, Du Plessis and Mahipal Lomror were sent packing within the opening five overs.

Maxwell’s 12th-over dismissal all but sealed victory for Punjab, with Rabada add-

ing the wickets of Shahbaz Ahmed and Harshal Patel.

Dhawan’s blushes spared as Bairstow and Livingstone turn on the style Although the Kings’ best-performing batsmen Dhawan fell short of his season average of 40, a combined 136 from Bairstow and Livingstone propelled Punjab to victory. Rabada on a roll Fast-bowler Rabada led the Kings’ attack admirably to end the contest with three wickets, taking his tally for the season to 21, some seven clear of his closest team-mate in Rahul.

Scores: Punjab Kings 209 for 9 (Livingstone 70, Bairstow 66, Harshal 4-34) beat Royal Challengers Bangalore 155 for 9 (Maxwell 35, Patidar 26, Rabada 3-21) by 54 runs.

NBA play-offs: Miami Heat knock out Philadelphia 76ers as Dallas draw level with Phoenix BBC Sport - The Miami Heat secured their place in the Eastern Conference finals after a 99-90 win over the Philadelphia 76ers gave them a 4-2 play-off series win.

Jimmy Butler scored 32 points and Max Strus added 20 points and 11 rebounds in the Heat’s victory.

In the Western Conference, Luka Doncic scored 33 points to help the Dallas Mavericks beat the Phoenix Suns 113-86 and tie up their series at 3-3.

The decisive game seven (Continued on page 25)

Doncic scored a game-high 33 points for the Dallas Mavericks in their win over the Phoenix Suns. (Reuters)

Saturday May 14, 2022

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GCB' Snr Women's T20 Inter-County cricket Competitive day B'ce crush E'bo by 9 Wkts, expected at GAPLF Masters/ Intermediate Dem beat Select XI by 89 runs championships tomorrow p. 29

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-Fitness Expresses on board

Shabeka Gajnabi goes after Analisa D'Aguiar as Berbice raced to 32-1 to win by 9 wickets. (Sean Devers photo)

Jamie McDonald (L) proprietor of fitness Express presents the cheque to PRO / organising secretary of the GAPLF Mark Seymour in the presence of Gordon Spencer president of the GAPLF.

s t r Spo The NSC three stage cycle road race pedals off today.

p. 30

NSC Three-Stage Cycle race pedals off today in Berbice Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.