Kaieteur News

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Monday May 31, 2021

Kaieteur News

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

EDITORIAL

The ways of the Exxons of the world Too many Guyanese still lack a good enough understanding of the ways of the world, and how the real world operates. It is how giant oil powers, like Exxon, function, and the dogged ways that they pursue matters of interest to them, to get their way. For companies operating under the banner of capitalism, it is war, as they refine approaches to overcome obstacles and adversaries standing in their way. This is what was confirmed in a Bloomberg article dated May 29, titled “Exxon’s last-ditch attempt to stave off a climate coup.” When people are desperate, they resort to desperate measures, which is what Exxon did. As the Bloomberg coverage noted, Exxon was mostly “dismissive” of the upstarts, and still gathering voices, actively campaigning for material changes in the company’s attitudes and actions on the environment and climate change. But in the hours leading up to the annual shareholders meeting, “Exxon telephoned the investors on the morning of casting their ballots…asking them to reconsider their votes.” This was one desperate company, which some of those called made known. And as confirmation, of just how desperate and worried Exxon’s top management was, the telephone calls begging for a change of heart, meaning voting against the rebel shareholders nominated directors to be on the Board continued “even during an unscheduled, hour-long pause during the virtual meeting.” It should not surprise that those frantic outbound calls were going to the big investors holding millions of shares, like BlackRock and Vanguard and Fidelity, whose votes would make the difference between Exxon prevailing or succumbing. This is troubling and, as one who received such a call said, “It don’t feel good as an investor.” Though the company may not have broken any rules, there is the feeling that this was not fully on the up and up, with particular emphasis on what was described as the “unusual” action for a blue-chip company to take during that hour-long break, and then use it to lobby investors to change their vote. And just so that Guyanese keep in sight where we are going with this, it was all about Exxon’s resistance to doing what the world is moving towards. That is, recognising and accepting that climate change is a real and present danger, and that corporate visions, strategies, and actions must be in accord with what safeguard our planet. From its stubbornness, and its public relations spin, it is now beyond doubt that Exxon’s soothing words about its intents and plans are only so much lip service, lacking seriousness. Now, in an effort to make Guyanese think, we pose a few simple questions. For starters, if Exxon is so concerned about the environment and climate change, then why the resistance? Second, if Exxon is about corporate democracy, then how does it explain or rationalise those “last-ditch” desperation calls? Why not let the process, as enshrined in laws, work its ways to the natural conclusion, whatever that is? And, here is the big one for Guyanese with their newfound oil treasure, if Exxon could be so bold as to attempt what it did in transparent and vigilant America, what would it do, and not do, in this divided and wretched outpost called Guyana? Does that not explain excessive flaring? And repeatedly broken compressors? And the company’s indifference and evasions? We at this paper have still more, which we present in the form of reasonable inquiries before citizens. We think that Exxon has made midday and midnight calls to, and held secret meetings with, whose details are highly confidential, Guyanese politicians and Guyanese elites, with the sole objective of compromising them, and getting the locals to stand on the company’s side, regardless of what it does here. Haven’t Exxon appeared to have so engaged? Then, how do we explain the silence of the leaders in the Guyana government, Guyana’s opposition, and Guyana’s civil society? How about its professional class? They have had nothing to offer in defence of Guyana’s interests, because they have been woefully compromised, weakened. They cannot breathe a word of objection. This is how Exxon works here, deals here. It is in the bloodstream and brain cells of the Exxon(s) of the world. It is having things their way, all the way, all the time. Guyanese are worst off for it, with no champions around.

Ministry must transition away from NGSA, dismantle inequitable education system DEAR EDITOR, The Minister of Education is reported as clarifying that Government will not abolish the NGSA (National Grade Six Assessment) which now functions as a placement test and a kind of IQ test to identify the academically gifted students who are placed in the 5-6 “top” high schools, and who consider themselves as being lucky to be in “elite” schools. The NGSA is certainly an achievement test used for placement of homogeneous grouping of students in schools and not used for diagnostic purposes to improve education. It’s a “slot machine” that slots lower performing students in lower quality schools. It is a hangover from the colonial era that has no place in 21st century education. The NGSA has become one of the root causes for an inequitable education system. It has been rightly said the

Ministry needs to look at equal schools not only at the high school level but that we should address inequities at the primary level too. I say we need to start at the nursery school level. The research has shown that strong early childhood readiness is the foundation for success at the later educational levels. At this point, the Ministry of Education has no education plan. They inherited an expired plan from the Coalition. Right now, the Ministry is engaged in what I call “random acts of improvement” versus a systematic, comprehensive aligned design for school improvement and reform. It is essentially a “Christmas Tree” approach of “let’s hang something here, hang something there,” and hope it looks good. The transformation of Guyana’s education system will require strong professional educator leadership, apart from political will.

Here is a good lesson. In North Carolina, some school systems had sued the State saying there were inequities in funding. The Supreme Court of North Carolina, in its landmark Leandro v. State of North Carolina decision, affirmed the fundamental right of every child to have access to a sound, basic education. The courts also ruled that North Carolina was not meeting this constitutional requirement. There is a new House Bill to implement a plan that will ensure all children, including those from rural and underserved communities, have access to a sound, basic education. The House Bill would spur the State to take action and begin to resolve the statewide funding inequities that predominantly harm rural, low-income, and high-risk students. One legislator said, “The COVID19 pandemic has exacerbated the inequities that are the focus of the Leandro case,

particularly for students from low-income families, and students with disabilities. If we truly want to serve our most marginalised students and prepare them for a more prosperous future, we don’t have any time to waste.” I submit that Guyana’s education system is in a similar situation as North Carolina and unless the new PPP Education Plan is mainly focused on addressing the inequities in education frontally and urgently, somebody or group needs to file a lawsuit to change this unacceptable situation that has been allowed to continue for so long. After 55 years of Independence, we need bold, new leadership in education. The education system cannot do more of the same, or beat the dead horse harder. We cannot wait for equity to trickle down. Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall Education Consultant & Author

Stop this persecution of Haitians DEAR EDITOR, We are unfortunately witnessing discriminatory and racist behaviour developed by the Guyanese authorities against Haitian migrants who recently landed in Guyana. Haitian migrants are targeted and are “welcomed” in Georgetown by detention, and imprisonment along with a fine (a kind of ransom in exchange for their freedom, which will be followed by deportation). This situation concerns me for three (3) reasons: Firstly, I am a citizen of the world, a world which is globalised through the economy which promotes the exchange of products and information only for the benefit of imperialist countries, an unfair process which rather ensures the collapse of the underdeveloped countries of the continents but does not prioritise the free movement of people. Secondly, I came from a country inhabited by men and women proud of their history, Haiti, the first Black republic in the world. This land is inhabited by a people responsible for the most definitive revolution in the relationship between European enslavers and Africans reduced to slavery, when between the years 1791 and 1804, the enslaved Africans overthrew their masters after the Battle of Vertières between the French army of Napoleon and the native army led by

Dessalines. Thirdly, my two children Maudalissa and Marshall Methelus from Haiti suffered victimisation by the Guyana Immigration Authorities and a month’s imprisonment in Georgetown last November. Anita Catule, a 65-year-old Haitian compatriot, who arrived on the same flight as my children, victim of the same fate, was imprisoned for a month in difficult conditions with insensitivity to her fragile health, and died less than a week after her release. I don’t know if the authorities in Guyana realise it or not, but by universal and regional standards, the targeting and detention of Haitian travellers in Guyana is racist and discriminatory and violates their human rights. It is unimaginable and unacceptable that the sons and daughters of the precursors of Black freedom are treated in this way in the region. Haiti is the first land in this region which, through the voice of these first leaders, and supported by the Haitian people advocated freedom and protection for everyone of all races. My question to you, my brothers and sisters from Guyana is: How do you imagine yourself free if Haiti is not free? Today, the children of Haiti are now scattered by the cruelest winds that often pick them up and drop them off at the doors of other Africans who have little knowledge of their own history and therefore do not recognise their own brothers and sisters.

On the issue of the 26 Haitians, including 7 children, among them mine, who were cruelly detained on their arrival in Guyana in November 2020; on the issue of Jeannette Jean and Wilbert Freemont who were sentenced in March 2021 to one year in prison and a fine of $30,000 each; on the issue of Haitians who are repeatedly turned away at the airport upon their arrival, our small Haitian support group has decided to approach the Caribbean Court of Justice and directly press CARICOM for a new political, economic and moral order. Recently, we learned that all Haitians now have the right to apply for the CARICOM passport. Yes, this is a step in the right direction. But that should not lead us to stop the struggle, perhaps to rest, but not to stop. I invite you all to dig deep into your psychic resources to help us speak with one voice at the CCJ and end forever this debilitating attitude of elites calling themselves the leaders of the Caribbean Community who have us shown decade after decade that they are only interested in recreating the structures of oppression built by their former slave masters. Let us pull together a Pan Caribbean think tank from the ground up to talk about what the economic structures of what a real Caribbean civilisation would be. What crime has been committed by Haitians who are being held against their will by the Guyanese

government and threatened with deportation? The travel documents of these people are all in order. As citizens of a Caribbean nation that is part of CARICOM, they are legally allowed to travel to Guyana and have the right to stay there for up to six months. The authorities’ pseudoconcern about human smuggling and trafficking obviously holds no weight. If this were the case, those initially arrested would not have been released without being charged. Holding these Haitians in a government shelter and removing Haitian children from the presence of families and caring adults and placing them in the care of people who cannot speak to them in their language or meet their emotional or cultural needs is in fact abusive and a violation of their rights. These Haitians financed their own travel and hotel accommodation. They did not turn to Guyanese officials for help and were not found to be in danger. Either the Guyanese authorities do not understand what human trafficking really means (or they have a quota that they must meet to satisfy a foreign captain), or they simply use the notion and language of trafficking to target and discriminate against them. The point is, there are people from many other countries in Guyana - some legally entered but many illegally (who are sometimes really exploited) who never (Continued on page 6)

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Kaieteur News

Questions about Schlumberger-Guyana Inc.’s planned construction at Houston DEAR EDITOR, Schlumberger-Guyana Inc.’s planned construction of a “Source Storage and Calibration Building” facility at 1 Area X Houston, EBD, Georgetown which was given EPA approval only came to the attention of the majority of residents of Houston and surrounding communities through news reports in late April and early May. The EPA’s Notice to the Public dated April 11, 2021, which was subsequently found on its website, did not provide any substantive reasons for how it arrived at this approval and the basis for waiving an EIA. Rather, the notice simply states that “it has been determined that the projects will not significantly affect the environment or human health, and are therefore exempt from the requirement for an EIA.” No further explanation was provided. It is not clear what evidence or information was used to make this determination. We were/are alarmed to

find out that the Schlumberger-Guyana Inc. Source Storage and Calibration facility involves the handling, storage and installation of radioactive sources, and the processing and disposal of hazardous industrial waste, including oilcontaminated materials. It is well-documented that these substances, by their very nature, pose serious risks to the environment and human health. Under Guyana’s Constitution and international human rights treaties, citizens have a right to participate in decisionmaking and be informed of ‘developments’ which impacts our communities and environment including suitability of location for construction and operation of such a facility, track record of company in handling hazardous waste, mitigation measures and safeguards for securing and disposing of radioactive material and disaster preparedness to name a few. One news report stated in April that construction was 75%

completed. Our view is that the EPA’s approval for this facility violates principles of environmental management set out in the Environment Protection Act, including the precautionary principle. Specifically, the Environmental Protection Act dictates that, in performing its functions, the EPA shall make use of current principles of environmental management, including the precautionary principle and the avoidance principle. The “precautionary” principle states that “where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation” (Article 4(b), Constitution). The “avoidance” principle states that “it is preferable to avoid environmental damage as it can be impossible or more expensive to repair rather than prevent damage” (Article 4(d), Constitution). It is unclear what

Eliminate psychological divisions DEAR EDITOR, In response to Taaj Judunauth letter (KN Friday May 28) Nationalism/ Patriotism will only be achieved when we stop thinking of ourselves as Indian or African. Guyana is a nation of six races and as such a ”National Holiday” should reflect all six races of Guyana as one nation as a whole. How can all six races ever feel united as ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY, which is boldly emblazoned on Guyana’s Coat of Arms, when our leaders make national holidays of the culture of only one race that has nothing to do with the other five races. Emancipation Day, Indian Arrival Day, Phagwah,

Deepavali, Youman-Nabi, Eidul-Adha should not be national holidays as these are isolated days according to race and culture and do not represent the six races of Guyana. If an individual wants to celebrate any of the above days, he/she should be free to do so not as a national holiday but rather at their pleasure and in their own time. Guyanese will only begin to see themselves as one nation when these psychological divisions between us are eliminated. If we are to come together as one nation, let us start at the root of the diversity and animosity between the descendants of Africans and Indians in Guyana. Those of us who were

fortunate to be born in the early years, before Guyana got Independence from Colonial rule by the British Government, vividly remember both Africans and Indians living peacefully side by side with each other. It wasn’t until Cheddi Jagan and moreso Forbes Burnham divided the people of this country along racial lines for their own selfish purpose with empty promises of a better Guyana that the two major races got into conflict. The fact is we are worse off since our local leaders have taken over the economic resources in this once beautiful and harmonious atmosphere that was British Guyana. Yours truly, Gloria Holder

...Stop this persecution of Haitians From page 4 get the level of negative official attention that Haitian travellers seem to get on a regular basis. So why the disproportionate and

discriminatory treatment of Haitians? I call on the Guyanese authorities to stop this persecution of my people, including our children, and to give them equal treatment as

all other CARICOM citizens at your airports, and to allow them to have freedom of movement to go about their business as humans equal to all others. Mondy Methelus

information the EPA used to determine that the project would not have a significant effect on the environment or human health. The only information, which we could find about the possible impacts of Schlumberger’s proposed project in Guyana is in Schlumberger’s own Project Summary on environmental effects. This section only has about 146 words and is overwhelmingly lacking in detail. This section states very briefly that the project will have no environmental effects. The Project Summary does not provide details about the risks associated with radioactive sources, hazardous industrial waste and mitigation measures. Moreover, the Project Summary leaves out key details such as safety measures for the transportation of hazardous waste and radioactive sources, safe disposal from the accumulated hazardous substances, plans in the event of a spill or industrial accidents on site and or in the transportation of these hazardous and radioactive materials from Guyana’s EEZ zone into and along the Demerara River. Neither is there any detailed environmental plan for the containment, mitigation or protection measures for accidental release of such hazardous substances into the environment nor any mention of consequences of risks and endangerment of citizens, communities and environment. International conventions

and best practice emphasize the importance of proper regulation and management of radioactive waste, including through environmental assessments before construction of such facilities begins. The Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management, for example, states that Contracting Parties shall take the appropriate steps to ensure that procedures are established and implemented for a proposed radioactive waste management facility to evaluate the safety impact of such a facility on individuals, society and the environment, taking into account possible evolution of the site conditions of disposal facilities after closure. In addition, “before construction of a radioactive waste management facility, a systematic safety assessment and an environmental assessment appropriate to the hazard presented by the facility and covering its operating lifetime shall be carried out.” Radioactive waste management is defined broadly to include all activities, including decommissioning activities in the handling, pre-treatment, treatment, conditioning, storage, or disposal of radioactive waste. Additionally, we do not

understand how EPA granted approval for such a facility to be located in a residential area. Guyana’s zoning categories, as we were informed are residential, commercial, residential/commercial and industrial. According to our information, industrial facilities, factories, and harmful storage sites should never be located, constructed, built or operated in a residential area. Schlumberger Guyana Inc., planned construction of a “Source Storage and Calibration Building” facility at 1 Area X Houston, EBD is ‘slam bang’ located in the communities of Houston, Houston Estate, Houston Village/Housing Scheme with close proximity to adjoining communities of McDoom, Agricola, Eccles, etc. Houston Nursery and Houston Secondary Schools are just across the road from where this facility is being constructed as are health centres, community centres, faith based places of worship and wells for potable water. The UN World Conference on Human Rights, reaffirms in its Declaration on the Right to Development that “The human person is the central subject of development. The right to development should be fulfilled so as to meet equitably the developmental (Continued on page 5)

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The PPP/C administration is handling flooding better than the Granger government did Dear Editor, Under every PPP/C administration, response by multi-sectoral government agencies is prompt and efficient to national catastrophic occurrences in attempts to alleviate suffering of victims on a short-term basis, while simultaneously strategising on contingency plans to implement systems to bring long-term solutions to prevent recurrence of disastrous incidences of a similar nature. The Government’s response that was effected with immediacy during the current flooding in various communities is a case in point. Conversely, in a similar situation during the coalition government’s tenure in office, the victims affected by floods were left in a quandary as to when and if David Granger’s government had any intention to address their distressing situation because, when the issue of compensation for persons, especially hinterland dwellers who lost homes and all appurtenances within, particularly farmers who lost

Monday May 31, 2021

Kaieteur News

crops and livestock after the recent flooding was raised in Parliament on July 27, 2017 by then Opposition Parliamentarian, Collin Croal, Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan, told the House that compensation is not usually provided by the State for such disasters faced by Guyanese. The dire straits of victims from 10 regions affected by flooding under the coalition administration was treated as non-important by the government, as weeks after such a severe catastrophe had decimated homes and livelihoods, Bulkan informed the House that the Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) were still compiling assessment reports. Despite repeated queries by M.P. Croal on a timeline for the reports to be completed, Bulkan prevaricated, as had become the norm with coalition government ministers when challenged about their lack of timely intervention at crisis points affecting the citizens of the land. Bulkan averred that a

response to the crisis in Regions 8 and 9 was dependent on the outcome of a joint report between the Governments of Guyana and Brazil because Granger’s government contended that a rise in the river levels in Brazil contributed to the flooding in the hinterland areas, which begged the question of whether residents of Regions 8 and 9 are not Guyanese citizens who are entitled to State assistance in a crisis, regardless the circumstances, instead of awaiting the outcome of a blame game with a neighbouring country. Bulkan’s response that “… compensation is not normally offered in situations like this” is erroneous. The correct response should have been “Compensation is not normally offered in situations like this under the coalition government”, because, in such situations under every PPP/C administration, prompt needs assessments are normally carried out and immediate assistance provided, with requisite compensation and other interventions to restore life to normalcy following on a long-term basis, based on qualifying factors. Yours truly, Alvin Hamilton

ERG replies to Freddie Kissoon DEAR EDITOR, Freddie Kissoon in his Kaieteur News column of Tuesday May 18, 2021, has some pointed questions for the Electoral Reform Group (ERG). Here are the answers. 1. We know arithmetic and do not accept that the half of 65 is 34. The decisive term should be ‘minimum majority’. The minimum majority of 65 is 33. 2. We accept that the Constitution was violated when election was not called three months after the noconfidence motion. 3. We accept that the March 2020 election was being rigged for five consecutive months until the pressure from the world caused a halt to the rigging. I personally resented having to become involved in the recount, which at most should only have been for the Statements of Poll (SoPs) that were not produced by the GECOM. In spite of the differences Mr. Kissoon has with me, the ERG respects the influence he has and often the insights he brings to discussions. His claim that he has not heard of 99 percent of the ERG members indicates that we may not be the usual

suspects. So do not dismiss non-partisan civil society. In a polarised nation, there has to be a way to get the poles together, and such civil society offers a medium. We are not referring to the polarisation of right and wrong, upon which we do not encroach. Those who are wrong must either demonstrably repent or go. They remain to the country’s detriment. But being right is not enough. The whole series of events since the noconfidence-motion demonstrated that getting it right is necessary but not sufficient condition for harmony — because there were not sufficient people who knew arithmetic in that party and who had the character to tell their leadership in no uncertain terms that they were wrong. Education is therefore also necessary. Character we will have to pray for. The group began meeting weekly in July 2020, became incorporated November 23, 2020, and was launched December 5, 2020. But many of us were involved in election matters before. More recently, but before the March 2020 elections, Dr. Desmond Thomas published his book

in December 2019, Electoral System Reform for a Diverse Nation, the case of Guyana. It is available in Austin’s locally and on Amazon, and in a Kindle edition, which has the updates. The genius of the book is that the electoral system can be reformed according to 5 selected characteristics: proportionality, accountability, inclusiveness, transparency, and stability. The idea of the ERG is that citizens can become sufficiently informed to make the choice. We never had the opportunity to choose our electoral system. So the work of the ERG is to give citizens that choice. It will not be easy and we will need everybody’s help. Here is an opportunity to contribute to our own homechosen electoral system, no matter which party we vote for. Anyone, including Mr. Kissoon, is welcome to inspect our template and data at an arranged time. Let us demonstrate that all Guyanese can unite in formulating something we can genuinely call our own. Yours sincerely, Alfred Bhulai Secretary, Electoral Reform Group Inc. (ERG)

To include Guyanese resident overseas on voters’ list is questionable Dear Editor I read with interest the SN’s article by Mr. Ralph Ramkarran on Election Legislation Reform. While most of what he has suggested makes sense, the one proposal on including Guyanese resident overseas on the voters’ list is questionable. It can open a lot of room for corrupt practices if not properly managed, and our experience shows that most things are not appropriately and/or adequately managed

in Guyana. There is one practice that begs the attention. We duplicate the way our parliament is constituted in the choosing of members of boards and other bodies, such as the Elections Commission, the ERC, etc. It is not difficult to notice the partisanship and divisiveness and infest the functioning of these institutions. Therefore, it seems more prudent to choose members who are more technically equipped on the various

subject matters and must not be closely politically affiliated or perceived to be politically affiliated to any of the two major political parties. Proposals for membership to these institutions can come from any source, but these criteria must be met. Parliament can utilise the services of its various sectoral and other committees to examine the list of candidates and approve the final list of members. Yours truly, A. Adler

...Questions about Schlumberger-Guyana From page 5 and environmental needs of present and future generations. The Regional Agreement on Access to Information, Public Participation and Justice in Environmental matters in Latin America and the Caribbean, also known as the “Escazú Agreement” came into full effect in April 2021. President Irfaan Ali affirmed Guyana’s commitment to it in his speech on Earth Day, April 22, and stating its importance to the sustainable development of the Region. Escazú guarantees “full and effective implementation of the rights

of access to environmental information, public participation and justice” and protects the rights of citizens to live in a healthy environment. In other words, it guarantees access to environmental information, consultation in environmental decision making processes, right to take legal action in cases of environmental damage, promotes and defends the rights of environmental and human rights defenders, Indigenous peoples and communities. Based on the above, we have requested that the EPA conduct a comprehensive Environmental and Social

Impact Assessment (ESA) of Schlumberger Guyana Inc.’s “Source Storage and Calibration Building” facility at 1 Area X Houston, EBD. We have also written to the, Minister of Housing, the Georgetown Mayor & City Council and the Central and Housing Planning Authority to clarify zoning issues surrounding the location of this facility for waste including hazardous waste including radioactive waste and installation of radioactive sources within residential communities. Yours faithfully, Danuta Radzik Vanda Radzik

Monday May 31, 2021

Kaieteur News

The PNC/R cannot be trusted To speak about democratic elections and the PNC/R in the same breath is a contradiction. The PNC/R has demonstrated its aversion to democracy and its tendency to gain political office through crooked means. The party’s record of electoral infractions and undemocratic rule effectively disqualifies it from participating in any future democratic election. The issue therefore is not about who is best suited to lead the PNC/R into the next elections; the PNC/R should not be allowed ever again to participate in any future election. The PNC/R cannot be trusted to act in a manner which is consistent with participation in democratic elections. It has proven that it belongs outside of the democratic family. The PNC/R has a sordid record of electoral malpractice. It rigged the 1968, 1973, 1980 and 1985 elections and attempted to benefit from attempts to rig the 2020 elections. In each of those successive elections, the rigging became more glaring, brazen and barefaced. Peter D’Aguiar, a former ally of the PNC, said this about the 1968 elections: “To call it an election is to give it a name it does not deserve; it was a seizure of power by fraud, not election.” The 1973 elections were branded as “fairy tale elections”. The British Parliamentary Group of Observers described the 1980 elections as being more “crooked than barbed wire.” The PNC/R also distorted the 1978 referendum which gave it power to change the Constitution without resort of the people’s consent via a referendum. That led to the establishment of an Executive Presidency and the deepening of authoritarian rule which reached its apogee

when it was forced to pass a law to overrule a court decision. It also led to a spate of human rights violations. A section of the PNC/ R, one of whose leaders is still alive and kicking, attempted to abort the 1992 elections and included stoning the then office of the Guyana Elections Commission on Croal Street and by rioting, looting and committing arson in the streets even before the official results had been declared. It went on similar rampages after its loss in 1997, almost bringing the country to its knees and it is no coincidence that politics and criminality came together in a toxic brew after the 2001 elections. Since 1992, the PNC/R has never conceded in an election, which it lost and it never will. The PNC/R is not committed to constitutional rule. It only accepts its understanding of the Constitution. Following the no-confidence motion in December of 2018, the PNC/R trampled upon the Constitution, rewrote the Mathematics textbook and gave the world a lesson in how to prevaricate in holding elections. The PNC/R supported some dubious challenges to the March 2020 elections. Guyana was turned into an international laughing stock by those who were prepared to hang on to power on the flimsiest of threads. The PNC/R cannot be reformed. It is beyond political redemption. It had enough time, including five years in office to demonstrate it had put its sordid past behind it. It failed to do so and in fact, its actions confirmed that it was prepared to be returned to power through electoral skulduggery. Oil and water do not mix. You do not invite the

devil into a church; you do not invite thief men into a police conference. So why would anyone want to have a party with an established track record of electoral rigging to participate in democratic elections? Democracy and the PNC/R simply are not compatible. There have been calls for electoral reform. These reforms are aimed at strengthening the electoral system to ensure that it is foolproof from rigging. One columnist has even proposed that the laws be made unambiguous to ensure that the valid votes are those, which are certified by the Presiding Officer. Not even that can stop the shenanigans of the PNC/R. It is quite capable of organising for a significant number of presiding officers to invalidate large numbers of votes. An old lady once remarked that “Burnham made Satan cry.” There is no system which can be implemented which can be made foolproof against electoral rigging by the PNC/ R. There is only one type of electoral reform, which has to be implemented. There should be a Commission of Inquiry into the 2020 elections and the findings of that inquiry used as a basis to permanently debar undemocratic forces from participating in any future elections. If democracy is to have any chance of survival in Guyana, the PNC/R cannot be allowed to participate. Never ever again! (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Dem Boys Seh…

While de COVID-Task Force was asleep De COVID-19 Task Force was asleep on Saturday. Dem football fans flock to dem favourite watering holes and de places full to capacity. By de time de Task Force wake up, de game done. One of dem asking wah game people talking about – de CPL nah start yet. But de COVID-19 Task Force gan gat some decisions to mek. De people watching fuh see if dem gan shut down dem places wah been crowded fuh de football, de same way dem bin shut down other places.

Don’t bet yuh last dollar pon it because while all ah we nah equal; some more equal dan others. And some people de Task Force frighten fuh touch...like de midnight campers in de Boerasarie. De COVID-19 Task Force studying de new Gazette Order wah come out. Dem boys nah see no difference from de last one but dem note dat, like de last one, it seh no recreational activity permitted near to any river or creek. But dem boys know dat some people like fish at midnight. And dem boys nah hear nuttin’ about anybody

getting charge fuh using hook and bait during curfew. De Ministry nah want people fishing near dem creek at midnight. Dem afraid dem might catch something… other dan fish. Like a cold, a flu or worse yet, de COVID. Dem boys seh when dem two big ones went fishing de other night, dem walk with music set. One of dem ask de other, “What type of music to play?” De other one reply, “Something catchy!” Talk half and wish de Task Force sweet dreams!

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Kaieteur News

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Single parent to three foster kids, Bonicka Gordon. WANTED Wanted one experienced Gold Smith, Jacobs Jewellery and Pawn shop 16 Pike street Kitty Tel#622-4970 One experienced babysitter for Monday's to Friday's from 8am. Must be between 25-40 years. Call 231-8737. Live- in domestic must know to cook and live in waitress salary start at $20,000 - 25,000 weekly Tel#610-3974 Experienced cashier apply @ Shanta's Puri Shop, 225 Camp & New Market Street. One male and female able bodied clerks. Tel# 225-2313 & 226-1497. (1 ) male to cut & pluck chicken on meat saw, salary $20,000 per week. Tel#6750587/ 219-2192 PROPERTY FOR SALE Sheriff, Norton, Charlotte St, South Ruimveldt, L.B.I, Enterprise, Melanie, Diamond, Zeelugt & Uitvlugt, Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685

EDUCATION First Aid/CPR/AED and Home Nursing Courses at St.John Association. Tel# 225-9082, Whatsapp# 6823077 VACANCY

FOR RENT Bond Space/ Business spot 25x36 ftl add 12x11ft, enclosed, Sandy Babb St Kitty 653-2774 1-2 bedroom fully furnished apartment- 237 Gorden St.Kitty, $190,000 monthly. Water included. Contact 696-7163. Two Apartment for rent, 1 bedroom $30,000, 2 bedroom $45,000. Contact number: 696-1680 in Herstelling. Business: South Road, Saffon, Hadfield, Wellington, North Rd, Residene: Meadow Bank, North Ruimveldt Ray's Re FOR SALE Affordable scania & Daf trucks Contact 649-8888

Workers for P.S.G.C.S cleaner, labourers and maintenance workers Contact 621-6969/ 615-7784 serious inquiries only One bond clerk requirement 3 CXC subjects Apply at Lens Tel#227-2486 Filter/ Machinist, Welder fabricator, Mechanic & Male cleaner. Apply in person at: Technical Services 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles. Clerical assistants live-in accommodation available for out of town applicants covid vaccinated persons only.2237500. Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 2545, Car/Van licence. Call 6429823. One clerk for Eccles office English & Mathematics, Grade 1 or 2. Email application to techserigy@yahoo.com.

VACANCY Security officers male and female 18 years and above. Contact 223-4172,632-0101 or 632-0909. Maid to cook and clean. Call: 615-9132. Junior Accounts Clerk, Marketing Clerk. Contact via e m a i l : (chungsvacancy@gmail.com). Tel# 640-4522,624-3048. Project Clerk, Junior Engineer. Contact via email: (chungsvacancy@gmail.com). Tel #640-4522,624-3048. Hauler/Trailer Driver,Truck Driver, Building Foreman. Contact via email: (adowridge.chungs@gmail.com). Tel# 624-3048. We l d e r / F a b r i c a t i n g . Labourers, Road Foreman, Sand Truck Driver. Contact via email: (adowridge.chungs@gmail.com). Tel# 624-3048. Fronted Loader Operator, Excavator Operator. Contact via email (adowridge.chungs@gmail.com). Tel#624-3048. Vacancy exists for POULTRY/LIESTOCK FARMERS. Canal No.2 West Bank Demerara. Contact: 6214992,609-2995 or 227-5289. Vacancy exists for PM Shift Cashiers. Survival Supermarket Complex. Tel: 2275286,609-2995, email survival.humanresources@gmail.com. Vacancy exists for Drivers with Motor Lorry license. 173 Sheriff Street. Tel:2275286,621-4992,609-2995. Diswasher apply to Shanta’s. 225 Camp & New Market Street.

“You do not have to be rich to be a foster care parent; you just have to be willing to help. From a place of love, anything is possible.” Those were the words of Joycelyn Williams who has helped to make a difference in the lives of approximately 15 children over the past 10 years. Together with her husband Rudolph Williams, the couple has six children of their own who are now adults. As foster care parents also, their home has always been full of children over the years. As National Foster Care Month 2021 comes to an end, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) on Friday invited the couple along with a single parent to share their experiences as foster parents. Mr. Williams is a minibus driver while his wife does home nursing and rears chicken to help with their income. With such simple jobs, it is clear to the CPA that this couple has chosen to foster kids out of pure love for them. “You have to let the children know that they are loved even if a problem comes up. It’s a journey and we can be change agents to whatever is happening to children. I encourage anyone to support the Ministry,” Mrs. Williams said. Kaieteur News understands that Joycelyn accepts whichever child is placed in her care by the CPA, irrespective of their race and other factors. “I do not choose the children that they give to me. I have dealings with all the races and that is the joy of it; love doesn’t look at colour. And if you go into it for the stipend, then you’re missing the joy of it,” she posited. Meanwhile, Mr. Williams said he makes it a point to ensure that the children in his care are happy and comfortable so that when they leave his home, they’ll only have positive memories to share and may even want to return when possible. “I will always continue to support my wife because that makes the journey more comfortable and a success. I ask God to help me deal with these children because we

Mr. Rudolph Williams and his wife Joycelyn who have fostered 15 children over the past decade. have to sharpen them and shape them for society,” Mr. Williams said. He has also found that simply adjusting a room and placing a bed in it is often all that it takes to help someone. The Williams are not the only ones with a heart of gold for children in need of foster care. Bonicka Gordon, 30, has been a single parent for the past year since her sister died suddenly leaving five children behind. When the opportunity presented itself for her to become a biological foster care parent, she didn’t think twice. After some time, her brother and his wife adopted two of the children. “My family support system was a big help, along with my close friends and coworkers. They allowed me the necessary time off from work and gave me whatever support I needed,” Ms. Gordon, a Quality and Safety Officer at Strategic Recruitment Solutions, expressed. She said while becoming a parent is a huge responsibility and challenge at times, it also provides a meaningful opportunity to help kids who may have never had the opportunity to receive love and affection. “You’re giving them a chance to be a kid and if you were in that position, you’d want someone to give you a chance.” Gordon also spoke well about the support that the CPA provides. “The amount of support they gave was surprising; it’s almost as if

they’re a part of your family full time,” Ms. Gordon reflected. In Guyana, 222 children are currently within the foster care system, which has 128 foster parents, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, had pointed out recently in a statement, adding that 79 children have been placed in non-biological families while 143 are in kinship care. Officers of the CPA have been heavily promoting foster care across the regions, explaining how the programmes work and how individuals could be part of the rewarding and positive experience of being a foster parent. “We hope that at the end of this month, there would be increased awareness of the programme and families in the hinterland regions would sign on to be foster parents, all in an effort to have the service available to all our children across the country,” Minister Persaud said. The Minister committed to raising the level of awareness of their Foster Care Programme and to recognise the important role and dedication of foster parents. She stressed the need to honour foster parents for their time and commitment in being there for the children within their care. Persons interested in becoming foster care parents can contact the CPA on 227 0979, 231-8423 or 227 4082. The Ministry can also be contacted on 229-2807, 229 2751 and 229 2842.

...Fight for power has Police Force divided LAND FOR SALE Land for sale at 102 Good Hope mahaica 500ft x 42ft at the Roadside 691-8420 Carmichael St, Mc Doom, LaPenitence, Qeenstown, Beterverwagting, Canal No.1, Soesdyke Highway, East Coast Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685

From page 3 key investigations. “Policemen are not always on the scene, sometimes we need eyewitnesses, people who were there to tell us things”, said Conway. The PSC member suggested that in order

to solution the division and political influence that exists, the Force needs a Commissioner who can perform his duties without fear or favour. He added that such a person must be free from all political influence and stand up for what is right.

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GOAL processing 5,500+ Three Region Four persons die scholarship applications of COVID-19 With just one week to go for the submission of applications, the Guyana Online Acade m y of Learning’s (GOAL) staff is currently processing over five thousand, five hundred (5,500) applications that were r e c e i v e d m a n u ally and electronically from the 10 administrative regions. At the conclusion of the exercise, 4,500 scholarships will be awarded to Guyanese from a wide range of programmes including Management, Social Services, Science, Security and Tourism. The scholarships will be available and accessible at six

internationally recognised and accredited universities. However, incomplete online submissions have forced GOAL to implore prospective applicants that it is crucial that the following documents be uploaded along with the completed application form: a passport size photograph, a valid copy of the national identification card/passport (bio-metric page) or driver’s licence, copies of transcripts and certificates of all academic certificates, motivational statement, and a letter of support from current employer (if employed) or anyone in authority to attest to the applicant’s character.

Prospective applicants are also encouraged to review their applications before submitting, and pay keen attention to the requisite academic qualifications for the course or programme, which they are interested in and applying for. Persons can visit GOAL’s website: goal.edu.gy to apply online. Furthermore, applicants who are encountering difficulties with the electronic submission are asked to contact GOAL via email info@goal.edu.gy or call/WhatsApp 643-7783/6876331 for assistance and guidance. The final deadline for submission is June 5, 2021 at 11:59 pm.

The Ministry of Health yesterday announced that three more persons who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) have died. Their deaths now bring Guyana’s COVID-19 death toll to 385. The latest fatalities are a 65-year-old man, a 71-year-old woman, and a 58-year-old woman; all from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica). According to the Ministry’s press release, all three persons died over a two-day

period while receiving treatment at a medical facility. Further, the Ministry in its daily COVID19 dashboard recorded 88 new COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 16,910. The dashboard also shows that 23 patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 103 persons are in the institutional isolation, 1,996 in home isolation and five persons are quarantined institutionally. To date, 14,506 recoveries have been recorded.

...Caribbean must educate populace on value of From page 15 Sustainable Development Goals. She noted, however, that shortfalls in capacity are significant hindrances to instituting policies. “One of the critical areas [which] we need to begin focus on if we are going to access and embrace

innovation, and become more resilient and more sustainable for productive agriculture and food systems, is that we need to develop our human resource capacity to that level to give the necessary support.” Minister Marshall called on partners within the Food

and Agricultural Organisation, the InterAmerican Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA), United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinators and the World Food Programme (WFP) to provide technical support in these areas. (Modified from DPI)

...Scientists find oil & chemicals in 91 species of fish; US$71B spent on clean From page 2 excavate on the seafloor and PAHs are routinely found in Gulf sediment. However, their exposure has been increasing over time, as well as in other species, including groupers, some of Florida’s most economically important fish. In a separate USF-led study, her team measured the concentration of PAHs in the liver tissue and bile of 10 popular grouper species. The yellowedge grouper had a concentration that increased more than 800 percent from 2011 to 2017. Fish with the highest concentrations of PAH were found in the northern Gulf of Mexico, a region of increased oil and gas activity and in the vicinity of the Deepwater Horizon spill that gushed nearly four million barrels of oil over the course of three months in 2010. Oil-rich sediments at the bottom where much of the oil settled are resuspended by storms and currents, re-exposing bottom-dwelling fish. Oil pollution hot spots were also found off major population centers, such as Tampa Bay, suggesting that runoff from urbanized coasts may play a role in the higher concentrations of PAHs. Other sources include chronic low-level releases from oil and gas platforms, fuel from boats and airplanes and even natural oil seeps— fractures on the seafloor that can ooze the equivalent of millions of barrels of oil per year. “This was the first baseline study of its kind, and it’s shocking that we haven’t done this before given the economic value of fisheries and petroleum extraction in the Gulf of Mexico,” said Steven Murawksi, professor of fisheries biology at USF, who led the international research effort. Despite the detected trends of oil contamination in

fish bile and liver, fish from the Gulf of Mexico are tested rigorously for contaminants to ensure public safety and are safe to eat because oil contaminants in fish flesh are well below public health advisory levels. Chronic PAH exposure, however, can prevent the liver from functioning properly, resulting in the decline of overall fish health. These studies were made possible by BP’s 10-year, $500 million commitment to fund independent research on the long-term effects of the Deepwater Horizon spill administered by the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative. This year marks the end of that funding. “Long-term monitoring studies such as these are important for early warning of oil pollution leaks and are vital for determining impacts to the environment in the case of future oil spills,” Pulster said. (Source: https:// www.usf.edu/news/2020/ first-gulf-of-mexico-widesurvey-of-oil-pollution-infish-completed-10-yearsafter-deepwaterhorizon.aspx) THE DEEPWATER HORIZON SPILL Deepwater Horizon oil spill, also called Gulf of Mexico oil spill, is considered one of the largest marine oil spills in history, caused by an April 20, 2010, explosion on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig—that was located in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 41 miles (66 km) off the coast of Louisiana—and its subsequent sinking on April 22. The Deepwater Horizon rig, owned and operated by offshore-oil-drilling company Transocean and leased by oil company BP, was situated in the Macondo oil prospect in the Mississippi Canyon, a valley in the continental shelf. On the night of April 20, a surge of natural gas blasted

through a concrete core recently installed by contractor Halliburton in order to seal the well for later use. It later emerged through documents released by Wikileaks that a similar incident had occurred on a BP-owned rig in the Caspian Sea in September 2008. Both cores were likely too weak to withstand the pressure because they were composed of a concrete mixture that used nitrogen gas to accelerate curing. Once released by the fracture of the core, the natural gas traveled up the Deepwater rig’s riser to the platform, where it ignited, killing 11 workers and injuring 17. The rig capsized and sank on the morning of April 22, rupturing the riser, through which drilling mud had been injected in order to counteract the upward pressure of oil and natural gas. Without any opposing force, oil began to discharge into the gulf. The volume of oil escaping the damaged well—originally estimated by BP to be about 1,000 barrels per day—was thought by U.S. government officials to have peaked at more than 60,000 barrels per day. The total estimated volume of leaked oil approximated with plus or minus 10% uncertainty, including oil that was collected, making it the world’s largest accidental spill. CLEANUP EFFORTS The petroleum that had leaked from the well before it was sealed formed a slick extending over more than 57,500 square miles (149,000 square km) of the Gulf of Mexico. To clean oil from the open water, 1.8 million gallons of dispersants—substances that emulsified the oil, thus allowing for easier metabolism by bacteria—were pumped directly into the leak and applied aerially to the slick. Booms to corral portions of the slick were deployed, and

the contained oil was then siphoned off or burned. As oil began to contaminate Louisiana beaches in May, it was manually removed; more difficult to clean were the state’s marshes and estuaries, where the topography was knit together by delicate plant life. By June, oil and tar balls had made landfall on the beaches of Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. In all, an estimated 1,100 miles (1,770 km) of shoreline were polluted. AFTERMATH AND IMPACT Economic prospects in the Gulf Coast states were dire, as the spill affected many of the industries upon which residents depended. More than a third of federal waters in the gulf were closed to fishing at the peak of the spill, due to fears of contamination. A moratorium on offshore drilling, enacted by former U.S. Pres. Barack Obama’s administration despite a district court reversal, left an estimated 8,000–12,000 temporarily unemployed. Few travelers were willing to face the prospect of petroleumsullied beaches, leaving those dependent on tourism struggling to supplement their incomes. Following demands

by Obama, BP created a US$20 billion compensation fund for those affected by the spill. A year later nearly a third of the fund had been paid out, though lack of oversight allowed government entities to submit wildly inflated claims, some unrelated to the spill. By 2013, the fund was largely depleted. Numerous investigations explored the causes of the explosion and record-setting spill. The U.S. Government report, published in September 2011, pointed to defective cement on the well, faulting mostly BP, but also rig operator Transocean and contractor Halliburton. Earlier in 2011, a White House commission likewise blamed BP and its partners for a series of cost cutting decisions and an inadequate safety system, but also concluded that the spill resulted from “systemic” root causes and “absent significant reform in both industry practices and government policies, might well recur.” CONCERNS FOR GUYANA The findings by the marine scientists have also caught the attention of local industry experts who related to Kaieteur News that they should serve as a wake up call

for Guyana which is pursing massive oil projects in the Stabroek Block without full coverage insurance. This newspaper has reported on several occasions that Guyana is yet to receive official documentation or any piece of evidence for that matter to say that ExxonMobil would stand the costs for clean up and restoration programmes, following any oil spill from the Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two, and Payara projects. In the absence of full coverage insurance, stakeholders have expressed deep concern about the billions of dollars in expenses Guyana would be left with following any irreparable damage that follows from an oil spill. What has also left stakeholders in a deep state of worry is the fact that Guyana has no independent study on the potential harmful effects on its marine life from an oil spill. There is also no provision in the Production Sharing Agreement for the Stabroek Block which ensures ExxonMobil would undertake to do such a study and provide compensation should Guyana be affected in this way.

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Tens of thousands protest Bolsonaro’s COVID moves Tens of thousands of people in Brazil staged another day of protests against President Jair Bolsonaro, in particular for his chaotic handling of the pandemic, which has killed more than 461,000 people in the country. In downtown Rio de Janeiro, some 10,000 people wearing masks marched through the streets with some chanting “Bolsonaro genocide” and “Go away Bolsovirus”. Similar rallies were held in other major cities, the latest in a wave of anger against Bolsonaro that began months ago. After the United States, Brazil has the world’s

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Kaieteur News

second-highest coronavirus death toll. At the outset of the pandemic, the far-right president dismissed COVID19 as “a little flu” and, as the death toll rose steadily, he went on to infuriate people in other ways, opposing stayat-home measures and masks, touting ineffective medications, refusing offers of vaccines, and failing to anticipate oxygen shortages that left patients to suffocate. One of the themes of the rallies on Saturday was how many lives might have been saved if the Bolsonaro government started Brazil’s vaccination drive earlier. The

effort is going slowly and has sputtered frequently for lack of supplies. “We must stop this government. We must say ‘enough is enough’,” businessman Omar Silveira told the AFP news agency at the Rio rally. Of Bolsonaro, he added: “He is a murderer, a psychopath. He has no feelings. He does not feel as we do. He cannot perceive the disaster that he is causing.” Demonstrators also assailed Bolsonaro for allowing deforestation of the Amazon and land seizures from Indigenous people and said he encourages violence and racism. (Al Jazeera)

Driver in Kairuni accident released on $900,000 bail The 39-year-old car driver who was involved in the Kairuni accident which claimed the lives of three persons and left two others hospitalised, was released on $900,000 bail after he was recently charged with three counts of causing death by dangerous driving. The defendant, Kevin Bizzeth, a member of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) made his first court appearance in the Providence Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Judy Latchman to answer to the charges. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, which alleged that on May 23, on the Kairuni Public Road, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, he drove motorcar PHH 6628 in a manner dangerous to the public causing the death of eight-year-old Akese Jerome, 87-year-old Antonia Henry and 40-year-old Meliena Emmanuels. Magistrate Latchman then placed Bizzeth on bail and the matter was adjourned to June 25, 2021. According to previous reporting, around 21:50 hrs, the family was sitting on a

Kevin Bizzeth’s car that was involved in the tragic accident last Sunday. side of the public road when a speeding Bizzeth crashed into them. This publication was informed that before the tragic incident, the family had returned from a church service and was sitting on the side of the road awaiting on one of Henry’s grandsons to return from an outing. According to the police, Bizzeth was heading to Linden at a fast rate when he reportedly lost control of his car and collided with the left side curb of the road. After it hit the curb, it crashed into the family. Public-spirited citizens reportedly picked up the injured relatives in an unconscious state and

rushed them to the nearest hospital. Eight-year-old Jerome was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where she was examined and pronounced dead on arrival. Henry, and Emmanuels who was reportedly pregnant at the time, were rushed to the Mackenzie Public Hospital where they were pronounced dead on arrival. Rodwel Jerome, 50, and eight-year-old Aleana Persaud who survived the crash are currently patients at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where they remain in a serious condition.

T&T Adjusts Restrictions for Public Holidays

Protests in Brazil.

WICKHAM: CABINET SIZE A ‘PRUDENT POLITICAL DECISION’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s decision to maintain a large Cabinet is less about efficiency and more about reducing chances of infighting. Since the 30-0 Barbados Labour Party win in 2018, one of the major criticisms the public has levelled against the Mottleyled administration is the size of the Cabinet, which currently stands at 24 ministers after it was reshuffled down from 26. While Mottley has longdefended her decision as necessary due to the significant amount of matters to be addressed, in an interview with The Barbados Advocate yesterday, Political Scientist Peter Wickham opined there is a political reality the Prime Minister has taken into consideration. “A backbencher earns a few thousand dollars, while a minister earns probably three times as much.

If you have a backbencher that is facing retirement politically…and that person is allowed to languish on the backbench and not be part of a Cabinet, they will cross the floor. And if you have too many people crossing the floor, it creates a situation where it destabilises the government. “I think the Prime Minister as a result of that made a prudent political decision in making the Cabinet as large as it is, as that is the only way you can preserve the integrity of your government, because if you can’t then the government will face infighting. The fact that within days of the Cabinet being appointed, three people were left out and one of these persons immediately decided to cross the floor and become Opposition Leader, that to me provides the best proof that the Prime Minister made a

prudent decision to setting up the Cabinet in the way she did, and frankly I would not advise her to change her at this stage,” the pollster said. Pointing to Grenada as an example, he said whenever one party wins all the seats, there is a struggle for the government to maintain a substantial backbench. “So you can say what you like about the criticism about the bloated Cabinet, the reality is that Mottley’s government has remained largely intact and has only faced Atherley’s departure. I would hate for her to do like (Sir Lloyd Erskine) Sandiford did where he inherited a massive 24-3 government and in no time at all he had defects to the Opposition and (Sir) Richard Haynes and company formed a new political party, which essentially hurt the DLP,” Wickham added. (Barbados Advocate)

Trinidad and Tobago will adjust restrictions and curfew to the daytime period on the two public holidays scheduled this week, the Indian Arrival Day on Monday and Corpus Christi on Thursday, to limit movement during the day. At a media briefing, Prime Minister Keith Rowley said while the daily 9:00 pm to 5:00 pm curfew in place with the State of Emergency will not be changed, there would be some adjustments for the public holidays. The movement will only be allowed for a limited period during the day. Rowley also noted that the sale of pre-packaged food prepared by restaurants and fast food businesses will be banned, as attempts are being made to curb the number of COVID-19 cases in the islands. “Regulations are being prepared to ensure that it is crystal clear that closure means closure. Restaurants are closed. Prepared food services and service delivery would not be available in the coming days and along with that hardware, we will close hardware for the next week. Closed.” Meanwhile, supermarkets and bakeries will be allowed to continue the sale of foods, but “are required to be observant of the protocols.” Supermarket Association of

Prime Minister, Keith Rowley. Trinidad and Tobago (SATT) has announced that on Monday and Thursday all its members will be closed to give their employees time to rest, relax and reflect. The T&T Chamber in a release said it recognises the need for additional clarity, restrictions and adjusted curfew time on the upcoming public holidays announced by the Prime Minister to ensure compliance by all concerned. “We are at a tipping point

in dealing with the current pandemic. It is critical that every citizen understand that their behaviour plays an integral role in curbing the spread. Let’s each do our part – Be the One to save a life. While we are confident that the essential businesses are doing their part to keep their employees and consumers safe, we implore everyone to continue to be diligent and take the necessary steps to save lives.” (CaribbeanNewsNow)

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GCB U-19 Franchise league Walter Grant-Stuart, Suzanne Hamilton Eagles beat Amazon in rain and Aaron Newton shine as GCF affected 2nd round game National Road Race C/Ships conclude Walter Grant-Stuart, Suzanne Hamilton and Aaron Newton turned in outstanding performances to win their respective categories when the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) National Road Race Championships concluded yesterday at the 11.3 km Mahaica/Unity Circuit, East Coast Demerara. Despite the morning showers, Grant- Stuart, a differently-abled athlete showed his prowess as he took gold in the masters category which lasted for eight laps. He clocked 2 hours 33 minutes 24 seconds. Junior Niles took the runner up spot

Walter Grant-Stuart and Jaikarran Sukhai placed third.

Aaron Newton took the top podium spot in the

Monday May 30, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Authorities who have been your guides up to now may confront you. The hour is here to set aside your fears and lead yourself along your path. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) The day is likely to be confrontational. The latest developments in your career have offered you so little encouragement that you're tempted to cut back on your efforts, but your financial situation is forcing you to try even harder. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You're likely to experience a day of thoughtfulness and reflection, Gemini. Your state of mind will resemble that of a person who has just rebelled against everything. CANCER(June21–July22) The day may give you great insight into the decisions you face concerning your future. Now is the time to decide on your priorities. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Prepare for a somewhat stressful day, Leo. Your family life may be marred by some disagreements. There's some likelihood you will feel as though your territory is being invaded and your range of action limited. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may have planned to isolate yourself in order to get things done, but that won't be possible. It's like a force is destabilizing your professional life. Nothing seems to go right today.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) The day is likely to be confrontational. The latest developments in your career have offered you so little encouragement that you're tempted to cut back on your efforts. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) The day is likely to be confrontational. The latest developments in your career have offered you so little encouragement that you're tempted to cut back on your efforts SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Here is a day that may make you think you aren't exactly in the right place in your profession, Sagittarius. Could it be that your current position is too traditional? CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Some past stories may come back to haunt you today. If you once held a government post, for example, a journalist could undercover some error that you made years ago and publish it in today's newspaper! AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may be taking stock of your professional life, Aquarius. If this is so, be careful to balance strategy with personal objectives. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may be taking stock of your professional life, Aquarius. If this is so, be careful to balance strategy with personal objectives. If you're a journalist, think about writing for yourself as well as the paper.

juniors’ 5 laps event, while Mario Washington of Berbice grabbed silver and Andrew Forrester of Linden took the bronze. Suzanne Hamilton of Linden triumphed in female three laps event, while Clavicia Spencer of Linden placed second and Selena Stephens of Bartica took third position. Alex Leung won the Juvenile division, while Amani King was second and Mark Lewis was third. According to the organisers Leung management returned the medal to the organisers stating that Leung should be riding in the junior (17 and over) category instead of the juvenile 13-15). However, the organisers stated that Leung, 13, has not yet attained the age to compete in the junior category and they will meet shortly to decide on this matter.

...Warner Bros Lifted Inaugural K&P Pharmacy From page 21 was won by Sudeshram, while Lukenauth won the MVP and best batsman trophies. Cash incentives and trophies were given to the winning and runner up teams. The organizers thanked the teams and officials for their participation in the day’s event. They also thanked the sponsors. Meanwhile, the WeCare Inter Region Independence Softball Cup has been rescheduled for next Sunday with games in regions 3, 4, 5 and 6.

On a day in which three and a half hours of play was lost due to overnight and morning rain the second 50over GCB under-19 Franchise match was reduced to 27 overs with General Marines beating 4R Amazons by one wicket at providence yesterday. In mostly overcast conditions with brief periods hazy sunshine, Eagles won the toss on a slow straw coloured track and a still fairly fast outfield despite being severely drenched from above average rainfall, Eagles reached 124-12 off 26 overs responding the Amazons’ 120-13 off 27 overs. In a game in which all 14 players in the squad were allowed to bat, Marvin Prashad led the way with a 35- ball 34 with six fours while Collis Noble (16), Trevon Charles (15), Leon Cecil (14) and Shamar

Yearwood (11) reached double figures. Alvin Mohabir took 4-18, Isai Thorne who bowled with lively pace, captured 3-36, while Niko Vincent had 2-20 as about eight relatives of the players watched from the Red Stand ensuring that they practiced social distancing and were wearing Masks. Eagles in reply reached their target, no batsman reaching 30; Chaitram Balgobin top scoring with 29. Skipper Zeynul Ramsammy made 15 and Daniel Mootoo reached 13. Cecil took 3-35, Gourav Ramesh, had 3-30, while Charles and Zachary Jodah picked up two wickets The next game in the three-team tournament will be played on Saturday while the top two teams will faceoff the grand Final on Sunday. (Sean Devers)

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Monday May 31, 2021

Khan, Wong & Sampson dominate Novice Championships Overall winner Michael Sampson receiving his prize from head of the GBBFF head Keavon Bess. (Emmerson Campbell photo)

Yusuf Khan, Aliya Wong and Michael Sampson flexed their way to the top accolades when at the 2021 Novices Bodybuilding Championships that was held at Lichas Hall in the ‘mining’ town of Linde on Saturday. It was not an easy choice, but the judges awarded the Men’s Physique showdown trophy to Unity Gym’s Yusuf Khan ahead of fellow gym athlete, Denroy Ross and Quamie July of V. Fitness. From a field of 12, Khan brought the shape and stage presence the judges wanted

to see. The first timers really put on a show and the level of competition continues to rise especially in the flourishing Men’s Physique class. Wong, a standout from Pro-Fit Boot Camp, was the near perfect mix of muscularity, symmetry, beauty and style and took home the spoils for the category ahead of her worthy opponents Gail Karim and Alejandra Vieira. Sampson shone the brightest under the lights in the bodybuilding category. Clad in black posing trunks,

he out flexed and out posed the competition to be awarded the accolade of Novices Bodybuilding Champion 2021. Sampson, also of Pro-Fit Boot Camp, was the biggest and sharpest athlete on stage in the over 176-lb class. He then returned to the pose down with the other category champions, Alexander Correia (under 143 lbs), Joel Caldeira (under 154 lbs) and Shaquan Caleb (under 165 lbs) and took the overall spoils and one year’s bragging rights. The event, which was

Yusuf Khan won the men’s physique. (Emmerson Campbell Photo)

Aliyah Wong won the women’s category. (Emmerson Campbell photo)

held without a viewing audience, was sponsored by Fitness Express and the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport.

Next up on the local competition calendar is the I n t e r m e d i a t e Championships scheduled for sometime in the third

quarter of the year. It was announced that the flagship National Senior Championships is billed for December.

Kaieteur News

Monday May 31, 2021

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Matthew Briggs announced as new ‘Golden Jaguars’ Captain By Franklin Wilson in Antigua 7 Barbuda compliments of the GFF and Industrial Safety Supplies Inc. A veteran of fourteen national caps for the ‘Golden Jaguars’, defender Matthews Briggs was yesterday announced as the new Captain of Guyana’s Senior Men’s National Team, the nation’s flagship team. Head Coach Márcio Máximo made the announcement during an important team meeting yesterday to loud applause from his teammates, Technical and Management staff. Briggs, who ply his trade with Danish Professional side VejleBoldklub aka ‘The Reds’ or ‘Ruby of Jutland’, expressed great delight at being given the honour of leading his nation at a time when a new chapter is being written. “I’m honoured to accept

the captaincy, I’ve been playing for Guyana a couple of years now and it has always been a dream of mine to be Captain of a national team; so I’m finally excited to get this journey started and to see what the future holds.” Briggs has replaced Sam Cox who took on the role in June 2016, the last game he wore the Captain’s armband was against the Bahamas in March when Guyana won 40. With Guyana chasing qualification for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and in a must win situation for their two remaining matches in this Concacaf qualifying window, Captain Briggs stated confidently that his charges are focused on the matches ahead and will be giving 110% effort which they are capable of and have the full capabilities so to do. Touching a bit on the Antigua encampment so far, Briggs posited that there is a high level of excitement

Warner Bros Lift Inaugural K&P Pharmacy Arrival Softball Cup

The victorious Warner Bros team. Despite a waterlogged outfield, the Inaugural K and P Pharmacy Arrival Day Softball Cricket Cup was keenly contested at the Goed Bannanen Land in Canje, Berbice. In the semifinals action, Warner Bros batted first and scored 147/8 in their allotted 10 overs with David Lukenauth 43, K. Gangaram 37 and K. Sobhai 18, while S. Thomas of Delhi Capitals ended the match with figures of 2-0-7-5. Delhi Capitals managed 70 all out in nine overs, in reply. S. Thomas top scored with 16 and B. Gansham contributed with 15. Bowing for Warner Bros were K. Sobhai, Lukenauth and B. Deolall picked up two wickets each. The second semi final was played between Bambam X1 and Chasers X1. Bambam X1 batted first and scored 132 all out in 9.4

overs with T. Stanislaus top scoring with 32, also contributing with the bat were A. Algoo 29 and S. Dhani 11. The pick of the bowlers for Chasers X1 was Sudeshram who bowled four overs and picked up four wickets, while Chase, Singh, Phillips and Permaul pocketed one each. Chasers X1 made 133/7 in 9.3 overs in reply. G. Singh made 19 as K. Khan and T. Stanislaus picked up two wickets each. In the final which was reduced to four overs due to fading light, Warner Bros batted first and scored 57 for 2 in their allotted overs with K. Ganagram scoring 15 and Lukenauth 14. Bowling for Chasers X1 G. Singh and A. Persaud bagged two wickets each. Chasers X1 replied in 21 in their allotted overs. Drakes scored16. The best bowler trophy (Continued on page 19)

amongst the players. “I was speaking to a few of the boys and they were all itching to get on the ball since Saturday when they arrived but we had a long days travel so it’s all about recovery and rest.” The tall defender also shared a bit on the last two matches played in March in the Dominican Republic. “We didn’t perform to our full potential which was disappointing for us, so we’re excited to get into

these two games now and put that right.” And just what would be the ideal situation for the team post the next two matches against St’ Kitts and Nevis on June 4th and Puerto Rico on June 8th, Briggs commented: “I think to win both games, I mean, I look at both these games and I think we’re favourites to win them. I think we’ll be the better team and we’ve got more than enough quality to win both these games.”

Matthew Briggs - Golden Jaguar Captain. (Franklin Wilson photo)

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Monday May 31, 2021

South America Senior Athletics Championship

Osaka fined $15K for Foster and Prince into 800m final skipping French Open media PARIS (AP) — Naomi Osaka was fined $15,000 at the French Open for skipping a post-match news conference after her firstround victory yesterday — and threatened by all four Grand Slam tournaments with stiffer penalties, including being defaulted, if she continues to avoid meeting with the media. The fine will come out of Osaka’s prize money and was announced in a joint statement from the president of the French tennis federation, Gilles Moretton, and the heads of the other majors. Osaka returned to Roland Garros after skipping the trip last time, turning in a mistake-filled 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory over 63rd-ranked Patricia Maria Tig at Court Philippe Chatrier on Day 1 in Paris. After the 2020 French Open was pushed to a September start with a limit of 1,000 spectators per day because of the coronavirus outbreak, things were closer to normal yesterday: It was a sun-kissed May day and more than 5,000 fans were allowed in. Other results perhaps were more newsworthy than a straight-set win by the No. 2-ranked Osaka — that’s certainly the case for U.S. Open champion and twotime French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem’s 4-6, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 loss to 68thranked Pablo Andujar — but the events that unfolded after the Japanese superstar’s match were of high interest. That’s because Osaka vowed in a Twitter post Wednesday, and then kept that promise yesterday, to stay away from the standard back-and-forth with the media in Paris, the sort of thing athletes in various sports do as a matter of course. She framed it as a mental health issue, saying that it creates self-doubt to have to answer questions after a loss. Players at Grand Slam tournaments are required to attend news conferences if requested to do so; refusing is punishable by fines of up to $20,000. That, of course, is not a big deal to Osaka, the world’s highest-earning female athlete thanks to endorsement contracts worth tens of millions of dollars annually. “It’s her own choice. I think she’s capable of

Arinze Chance at the start of the 400m final in which he finished fourth.

Germany’s Angelique Kerber returns the ball to Ukraine’s Anhelina Kalinina . (AP Photo/Michel Euler) making her own choices and obviously she will do always what’s best for her,” Tig said. “I think that’s what’s happening now. It’s her choice of doing what she feels is best for her.” The Grand Slam tournaments’ statement said Osaka has been “advised” that “should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences.” Citing the rule book, the statement noted that “tougher sanctions” from “repeat violations” could include default — being disqualified from the tournament — and “the trigger of a major offense investigation that could lead to more substantial fines and future Grand Slam suspensions.” Osaka’s agent did not immediately reply to a request for comment from the AP yesterday. The whole thing didn’t mean Osaka was able to entirely elude any question about her problems playing on red clay, however. She did go ahead with the perfunctory exchange of pleasantries with on-court “interviewers” who lob softball questions so spectators can hear something from match winners. In that chat with former player Fabrice Santoro, who is hardly a journalist and kindly offered to help Osaka by carrying the flowers she was given by the tournament, the topic of the event’s surface actually did arise. Osaka’s Grand Slam

titles only have come on hard courts. She has won the Australian Open twice, including this year, and the U.S. Open twice, including last year, but she never has been past the third round at the French Open. “I would say it’s a work in progress,” Osaka said about her game on clay. “Hopefully the more I play, the better it will get.” As for her impression of Osaka’s on-court ability on clay, Tig offered this assessment: “If she wins, she’ll get used to it. She can play as good on clay as she plays on hard courts.” Osaka showed how Sunday: controlling points with her attacking game. She won 31 of 35 points when her first serve landed in and accumulated 39 winners — more than twice as many as Tig’s 18. Thiem had never lost in the first round in eight Roland Garros appearances and made it as far as the final twice before losing to Rafael Nadal — who else? — in 2018 and 2019. Andujar, who beat Roger Federer on clay in Geneva this month, had never before won a match after dropping the initial two sets. Another past Grand Slam champion, three-time title winner and former No. 1 Angelique Kerber, was beaten 6-2, 6-4 by Anhelina Kalinina, a qualifier from Ukraine ranked 139th and making her tournament debut. Roland Garros thus remains the only Grand Slam title that Kerber hasn’t won: She was the champion at the Australian Open and U.S. Open in 2016 and Wimbledon in 2018.

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uamel Prince and Andrea Foster have booked their spots in today’s final of the men’s and women’s 800 final, respectively, after spirited runs during the heats yesterday. Foster ran a time of 2m 7.93s to finish second in her heat behind Argentina’s Daniella Squire who ran 2m 7.44s. Foster began the race

positively and led it throughout until final 150m when Squire began to make her move. Foster then held off a valiant last ditch effort from Mayara Dos Santos of Brazil who finished third in 2m 8s. Foster finished with the fifth fastest qualifying time. Meanwhile, Quamel Prince finished third in his heat in a time of 1m 49.1s. However, Devaun

Barrington failed to make the cut after finishing fifth in the other heat with a time of 1m 50.99s which was not good enough to make today’s final. In addition to the 800m finalists, Chance and Akeem Stewart will be looking to get on the podium in the men’s 200m, while team Guyana remains optimistic about their chances of medaling in the 4x100m men’s relay.

Andrea Foster (centre no.350) after finishing second in the 800m race.

Ninvalle confirmed as new Director of Sports The six-member National Sports Commission (NSC) convened yesterday for the first time and they made a very important and long anticipated decision, which was the naming of the new Director of Sports. Popular and hardworking Sport Administrator, Steve Ninvalle, was unanimously voted in for the position and after consultation with the Minister of the Culture, Youth & Sport; Charles Ramson, he was confirmed for the post. Ninvalle has now succeeded Christopher Jones, who served during the last administration’s tenure. Chairman of the NSC, Kashif Muhammad, in an invited comment with Kaieteur Sport, highlighted that Ninvalle’s distinguished background as a Sports

administrator helped to influence the Commission’s decision. Ninvalle is a National Award-winning administrator, known for transforming amateur boxing in Guyana and the Caribbean and he is currently the president of the Guyana Boxing Association. Ninvalle is also a former Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. Ninvalle, who is also a former Stabroek News journalist, during a brief comment to Kaieteur Sport, noted that, “I would like to thank the Minister Charles Ramson and the NSC for appointing me to this position. It will be a team effort in order to further develop the sporting sector in Guyana and we will need all hands on deck.”

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Monday May 31, 2021

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Dave West Indian Imports becomes an official - Narine inducted as Honorary Member, sponsor of RHTYSC, MS receives Dolphin Award of Excellence Dave Narine (with cap) poses with junior cricketers of the club after the ceremony.

Oma Matadin inducts Narine as an Honorary Member of the RHTYSC, MS.

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verseas based Guyanese businessman Dave Narine was on Friday last inducted as a Honorary member of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club MS during a simple ceremony at the St Francis Community Center Training Hall. Mr. Narine is the owner/CEO of the popular Dave West Indian Imports, located at Liberty Avenue in New York, USA. Narine, a Berbician by birth, also received the club’s highest award, The Dolphin Award of Excellence. R H T Y S C Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster noted that Narine and the club has established a close working relationship and the businessman was excited to be on board with Guyana leading youth and

RHTYSC Asst Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu receive sponsorship from Dave Narine.

sport organisation. Former national female youth player Oma Matadin inducted Narine as the 203rd Honorary member of the club, while National youth player Jeremy Sandia handed over the Dolphin Aw a r d t o t h e c l e a r l y delighted businessman. Foster in a well received feature address traced the history of the RHTYSC and also informed the gathering of the remarkable achievements over the last thirty one years. Noting that the club struggled for the first two years of its existence, Foster stated that the fortunes changed in 1992 when the second division team won the Sydney Sabsook 40Overs title, organised by the Berbice Cricket Board. This resulted in more

respect for the club and sponsors started to come on board. The RHTYSC, the Secretary stated, now hosts over 700 activities per year under a wide list of sub headings including education, charity, youth development, community development, social, religious, coaching and awards. Additionally, the club has won five Guyana Cricket Board Club of the Year Aw a r d , 1 0 1 c r i c k e t tournaments at all levels including three national championships and produced a combined 107 cricketers for Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies. He hailed Narine as a positive role model for members of the club as he rose from a humble beginning to become a

highly successful businessman against great odds in the world’s most powerful country. Narine after been inducted officially handed over a sponsorship cheque worth three hundred and fifty thousand dollars to the Assistant Secretary/CEO of the club Simon Naidu. The cheque represents support for the 2021 edition of the RHTYSC Annual Youth Magazine and full sponsorship for the eighth edition of the very popular Region Six Sports Awards. The magazine is currently been prepared for publication in July, while five awards would be shared under the Dave West Indian Imports Sports Awards. The awards to be handed

over would be Sportsman of the Year, Sportswoman of the Year, Sports Personality of the Year, Lifetime Achievement award and Sports Association of the Year. Each of the awardees would carry home a trophy, plaque, medal of excellence, framed certificate and a collection of gifts. A very emotional Narine stated that he felt very humbled to be inducted as an Honorary member of a club that he has always admired for its service to humanity and guidance to youths. He stated that he was very impressed with the RHTYSC commitment to making sure that all youths have a fair chance to fulfilling their talent on and

off the cricket field especially in the classroom. Narine, who was accompanied by fellow overseas businessman Abdul Wahab of Wahab Trading, advised the youth cricketers in attendance to remain humble at all times and also to develop a culture of hard work and discipline. The 68th recipient of the D o l p h i n Aw a r d o f Excellence also expressed his willingness to work along the management of the club to promote the importance of education and sports. National players Jonathan Rampersaud and Matthew Pottaya handed a RHTYSC 31st anniversary cap and special gift to Narine on behalf of their colleagues.

New cycle for national team has commenced - Máximo By Franklin Wilson in Antigua and Barbuda compliments of the GFF and Industrial Safety Supplies Inc.

GFF Senior Men’s National Team Head Coach Márcio Máximo has the full attention of the ‘Golden Jaguars’ during yesterday’s meeting. (Franklin Wilson photo)

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uring a meeting with his players and staff yesterday at the team’s hotel here in Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana Football Federation ( G F F ) S e n i o r M e n ’s National Team Head Coach Márcio Máximo disclosed that a new cycle for the national team has commenced. Prior to leaving Guyana for the nation’s final two matches in this cycle of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying, six changes were made to the final travelling team with some of the seasoned players facing the axe, whilst new and talented players have been added to the team. The no nonsense Máximo also stated that no

player is guaranteed a place in the team but they all have to work for it and always show that professional desire while noting, “We are all here to help each other.” “Life have cycles you know, not only in football,

today, we start a cycle of national team, a new generation that’s come, generation that’s fully professional, generational that wants to really do something different with their career and help each other.”

Following the meeting, the lead tactician disclosed that he believes the players have all understood the message and can guarantee that we have a team of players who are honoured to represent the Golden Arrowhead with maximum

intensity. The choice of using Antigua as a base for training ahead of the two matches against St. Kitts and Nevis and Puerto Rico has been lauded by Máximo who also praised the GFF and President Forde for the

investment they have been making to really propel the sport in Guyana. “It’s a nice place and very nice for rest, concentration for what we are doing because we have meetings during the period, training and a total football atmosphere, they just focus on the game. We are very happy with the commitment, everybody is together and it’s a perfect atmosphere.” He further reemphasised that while the focus is on World Cup qualification as well as excelling at the Gold Cup, they do not just want to participate. “With new generation, we need to compete but not compete just to be there but compete to do something different. Only new generation can do it, with n e w m e n t a l i t y, w i t h competitive mentality and they come here to it.”