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Savings from audit of Exxon’s US$9.5B bill could have paid every citizen’s income tax for 56 yrs Had the PPP/C Government conducted a rigourous audit of ExxonMobil’s US$9.5B Stabroek Block bill, O p p o s i t i o n M e m b e r, Roysdale Forde believes that at the very least, the country could have secured enough savings to cover citizens’ personal income taxes at the 2020 level for nearly 56 years. By his calculations, Guyana could have recouped approximately US$1.1B (GYD235.2B) from the audit of the oil giant’s expenses in the prolific oil
concession. With the foregoing in mind, Forde asserted that the citizenry has a clear picture of the magnitude of the government’s failure to audit Exxon’s costs within the two-year limit prescribed in the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). Expounding further, the lawyer said he is of the firm conviction that the potential savings from the audits could have prevented Guyana from having to beg nations such as China for
loans to fund critical infrastructure and energy related projects. He noted as well that the millions of dollars in savings could have been directed towards building a first class highway from Georgetown to Lethem without having to borrow money from China; higher pay for nurses, teachers, and the disciplined services; the building of the Upper Mazaruni Hydro, which would yield eight times more electricity than Amaila; a greater opportunity to build
Former SOCU Head turns self in to police, released on bail Former Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Sydney James, yesterday turned himself into the police, some five days after a wanted bulletin was issued for him. A c c o r d i n g t o information, James turned himself in at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, but was subsequently released on $300,000, bail pending the outcome of the investigation. On November 3, 2021, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued the wanted bulletin for the entity’s
former head in relation to allegations of obtaining money under false pretense and fraud. According to reports, the allegations against the entity’s former Head, is that he forged the signature of his successor, Superintendent, Althea Padmore, so that he could obtain almost $1.8M. The aforementioned was reported after members from the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Audit Department assessed SOCU’s financial affairs in 2019, and this revealed damning levels of corruption from top to bottom of the agency.
requisite things as is outlined by the technical department within the Ministry and apply for permission to do the test,” Minister Anthony pointed out. Minister Anthony further explained that there are reports of facilities which would fabricate test results. “Apart from the Ministry’s technical department doing periodic inspections to see whether or not they’re in compliance, I think from the Task Force level, they would also send people in to see whether or not persons are complying with the procedures that they need to do so,” he noted. “We, from time to time, get reports that entities providing the test might just write the report without actually offering the test, so they would give a piece of paper saying that you’re
– Forde
Opposition Member and Attorney-at-Law, Roysdale Forde has no choice but to allow ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), to recover all stated costs for its Liza Phase One and Two Projects. Both initiatives total
approximately US$9.5B. In addition to being able to recover the costs for Liza Phase One and Two, Exxon will also be able to recover without any challenges, the US$460M, which the oil company claimed was expended prior to the signing of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) governing the Stabroek Block. It had said this money was spent on all the exploratory work that was needed for the massive 2015 Liza discovery. During his latest press engagement last week, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said the government is disappointed that it has not been able to push through Continued on page 15
Contractor paid without – PAC verification of works hears
Former SOCU Head, Sydney James
Task Force shuts down two unauthorised COVID-19 testing facilities Several health facilities, which were conducting COVID-19 tests even though they are not authorised to do so, have been shut down by the National Task Force. This was revealed yesterday by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony during a Mental Health and Well-being Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. He said that two of the facilities are located in Bartica, Region Seven and Linden, Region 10. “ T h e T a s k Force…would’ve gone to some unauthorised providers because they were providing antigen tests when they were not licensed to do so. And, in those instances, those facilities have been closed and we have advised them that if they want to offer the test, they should do the
industrial and agricultural base; cheaper internet access; better healthcare and education facilities; and substantial social and financial assistance to citizens. In light of the potential loss, Forde opined that chances for a better quality of life for Guyanese continue to diminish. In conclusion, Forde noted that the PPP/C Government has wasted a golden opportunity to demonstrate that it is capable of managing the oil sector in the interest of all. He has since called for an independent investigation “into this colossal act of incompetence” by the administration. Due to the nation’s failure to conduct cost audits within the two-year deadline prescribed in the Stabroek Block Agreement, Guyana
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony negative without doing the test. When we get such reports, we take it very seriously and the Task Force w o u l d s t a r t a n investigation,” he added. “So, we’ve had a few incidents that we’ve heard of and the Task Force along with the Guyana Police Force would’ve investigated those.”
Members of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday raised questioned over the manner in which a contractor was paid for a construction project in Region Two, some five years ago, even before verification of the works was done. In this regard, a team from the Regional Democratic Office in Region Two was made to respond to queries surrounding the project highlighted in the 2016 Auditor General (AG)’s report. According to the AG report, a contractor in the Region was awarded a $2.363 million contract for rehabilitation works to a teachers’ living quarters in the Supenaam area, Region Two, but officials of the region overpaid the contractor some $114,000 without verification that the project works were actually completed. Responding to the questions posed by members of the PAC was Regional Executive Officer (REO), Susanah Saywack. She told the committee that she was not present in the Region when the contract was being supervised and as such, she could answer for what was done under her predecessor, former REO of R e g i o n Tw o , R u p e r t Hopkinson. “…All I can say is under
my tenure, we would be following procurement regulations to ensure this does not occur,” Saywack stated. She noted that while she could not provide answers to questions, she did attempt to make contact with the previous REO for him to attend the meeting. “We attempted to make contact but there was no response,” she revealed. The REO noted nonetheless, that some members of her team may be able to provide an explanation. As such, Opposition Member of P a r l i a m e n t a n d PA C member, Ganesh Mahipaul, turned his attention to the regional engineer, Kawan Suchit. Suchit told the committee that while he was not the engineer in charge of the region at that time, he was part of the engineering team. The Regional Engineer revealed nonetheless, that the works at the time required regular verification from those in charge of the engineer’s department. “The works were for general repairs to teachers’ quarters in the Supenaam Creek under the previous senior engineer. The project was one which was to be examined like on a daily basis but this was not done…So the overpayment went to a concrete base that wasn’t constructed properly
PAC member, Ganesh Mahipaul and some sheet lots,” he said. The engineer added that, “the overpayment was only noticed when the audit office team visited. We have since written to the contractor several times but we were not able to recover the overpayment to the sum of $114,000.” Mahipaul then narrowed his question to how the project was approved and signed off on as completed without proper physical verification. “Can you say then, how a certificate of completion was generated for this project to begin payment to the contractor?” he asked. To this, the engineer said that the senior engineer who was in charge at the time was “the person handling the project.” However, neither Continued on page 18
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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Renewables where we stand We have to get this oil from below the seabed. But it can’t be willy-nilly, and in a pell-mell rush to conform to the dictates of Exxon. What is good for Exxon and its expectant investors, is not necessarily good for Guyana and its hopeful peoples. We have to demonstrate that this oil wealth has not made us so stupid that we are reckless, lacking in wisdom. Guyana’s political leaders and, by the same token, anticipating Guyanese citizens must not be so heedless that they, too, join the ranks of the foolish. The problem is that Guyana’s frenzied oil journey is already well underway. We have longed in vain for generations for this oil. Now we dream in vain no more, because it is here and in huge billion-barrel equivalents. But it is Guyana’s fate that its oil prospects collide frontally with broadening and strengthening global fears about climate change, and an almost overpowering sweep regarding the need for the most urgent remedial actions. There is growing and unrelenting insistence on migrating from age-old fossil fuel products to renewable energy sources. The case against one and for the other speak to the new and powerful realities that Guyana confront, now that it has finally discovered this oil wealth below its feet and, at long last, feel it pass through the fingers and hands of its peoples. Fossil fuels are not dead, far from it. But the first warning clangs of its death knell have been sounded and heard across the globe. It is an ice-cold splash in the bathwater of Guyanese, who have been waiting for so long, hoping for an eternity. We have oil and we have opportunity. But we also have to take cognisance of where the world stands and where it is heading. The world is in a race towards renewable energy sources. Wind and solar sources are the new big boys on the energy block. They grow in strength and influence. Renewables are cheaper and cleaner; in fact, they are much cheaper than previously thought, which is what KN made one of its leading frontpage captions on Sunday last: “Renewable energy is cheaper than previously thought, new report reveals – and could be a gamechanger in the climate change battle” (KN October 24). In the head-tohead cost comparisons between fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) and renewables (solar, wind), now in fashion, renewables keep coming out ahead. And in the very sensitive clean air and environment fight (it is a war now), fossil fuels keep coming on the losing side of the scoreboard. All of this is powerful stuff, but where does it leave Guyana with its newfound wealth in fabled quantities? All eyes are now firmly fixed on this little land mass in South America. From a place once denounced as backward and way out, it has now transformed into the place to be, and everyone wants to be here. It is heady stuff, and make men better than our current crop of leaders lose their heads. Yet, it is at this time, when our heads are in the clouds, that we must have our feet set well on the ground. We want this oil out of the ground, but now with climate change pressures and renewable energy revelations, we must regroup and rebalance sensibly. Exxon has gambled heavily on Guyana, and it has quarter to quarter performance weights (earnings) hanging on the heads of its leaders. Our own leaders must recognise this for what it is worth, and move to capitalise on this with energy and wisdom. We will not stop production, but we will stagger it, using any array of concerns (flaring, insurance, costs, politics, locals, and more) to instill some sense in the Exxon juggernaut. U.S. political powers and their plenipotentiaries are sure to recoil in anger, given their roles in Guyana’s power struggle. But PPP leaders will be wise to read the climate change and renewable tea leaves, and adjust accordingly. We produce on our own renewed terms. We embark on projects that are more renewables-oriented, and move away from those that are not. This is our position, even as we discern that the West wants to get ahead in selling its renewables technologies.
No requirement for GOAL scholarship recipients to work in public sector after studies DEAR EDITOR, The portfolio of the Minister of Public Service is critical to the effective and efficient management of the entire public service. The scope afforded the Ministry and the Minister of the Public Service if handled wisely could lead to a well-designed and organised institution retrofitted to provide exemplary services to all who come into its contact. At this critical juncture, our government ministries and agencies require a dedicated and constructive approach to ensure that the right policies are developed and implemented. The Public Service Ministry has received two Budgetary allocations over the last year. During this time, much attention has been placed on a particular aspect of the Minister’s portfolio; the launching, implementing and marketing of the GOAL Scholarship programme, for which the bulk of the administrative work is being handled by the Ministry of Education. The issuing of
scholarships is an important aspect of the responsibilities of the Minister of the Public Service, and it is placed under the care of this particular Ministry because it is expected that scholarship recipients, on the successful completion of their programmes, would utilise their new skills and knowledge to further professionalise this area of government. However, this is not the case for the GOAL recipients, as they are not bound to work in the public service, post studies. In response to questions, which I asked of the Minister of the Public Service in Parliament, it was stated that, “the recipients of the scholarships, will be contractually obligated to provide community service before completing the programme of study and that the duration of the community service is relative to the length of their studies”. The community service does not go beyond eight weeks. This would be true also for public servants who
are GOAL Scholarship recipients and thus, they can choose after completing their programmes, to leave the public service if they are so inclined. It is therefore reasonable to conclude that the Ministry of the Public Service has spent the entire year marketing a programme that is likely to have very little impact on or benefit to the Public Service. This then begs the question, what policies have been instituted by the Minister of Public Service or the broader administration, over the last year [that can be highlighted as a step in the direction of the modernising and restructuring that, which is desperately needed for the Public Service]? There has been no attempt to undertake a human resource needs assessment for our country, which should be done by the Public Service Ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Home Affairs. In fact, over the last year, the management of our human
resources in the public sector has been abysmal. So many professionals have been relieved of their duties or have left out of frustration as an intensive centralized approach to governance has once again taken root. There seems to be no positive work experience for employees, our essential workers in the health care sector, GUYOIL workers, our teachers and sugar workers have all gone on strike since August 2020. There has been no organisational development and no effort to shift from a personnel management approach to a human resource management approach. The Minister of Public Service must account for the work of her Ministry over the last year, and explain if plans or programmes have been developed to assure our public servants that the Minister and the Ministry of Public Service are working in their best interest. Regards Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, MP.
No commitment to crackdown on firecrackers DEAR EDITOR, I read the letters about the noise pollution during Diwali and I remember 10 years ago during the Christmas and New Year’s week. One of my pets was sensitive to the noise and I had to hug her all the time as the “bombs” went off outside. This noise pollution started more than a decade ago at the year-end holiday season. That it has escalated to what it is now, is no great surprise. This is what results
when people are lazy and wait for someone else to do the work. Now the blame will be on Hindus because it is our sacred day that this has happened. Just wait until next month and see if it be any different. One commentator mentioned about the Home Affairs Minister; what does he really do? A pandit was bludgeoned to death right outside his front gate under this minister’s watch. His
Police Force did not respond or else the pandit’s life may have been saved. Neither Minister of Home Affairs nor the Minister of Social Services, herself a Hindu leader did not visit the widow. What assurance does anyone have that they will not get murdered in front of their own home should some drunk man decides to come and molest your girl children? What protection does women
and children have under these two ministers? Do these people care about the ordinary folks in Guyana much less the animals? Ten years ago, my “Pebbles” were traumatised by the noise during the Christmas/New Year holidays now it has spread to contaminate Diwali. And in the meantime, both aforementioned ministers sleep on like Rip Van Winkle. Yours truly, N. Sahadeo
UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow: Decent Jobs and Protection of the Environment DEAR EDITOR, It is a false choice. It must be both, or it will ultimately be neither. Climate change is considered the most serious environmental issue facing the world today. However, we can only solve it by considering all of the dimensions of sustainability – environmental, economic, and social. Sustainability includes environmental protection, human rights, and labour rights, and economic development. It is the balance between the environment and the social imperatives of sustainability that gives the labour movement its credibility on sustainability matters. It is the integration of environmental, social, and economic concerns that will move the world to a
sustainable future. Labour demand must be for a just transition that ensures not only the creation of large numbers of greener, more sustainable jobs; but a plan to keep workers, their families, and their communities – and our unions. Much of the solution lies at least in part in global governance. Financial markets must be regulated and the environment must be better protected. With a few exceptions, our experience with the ideology of deregulation and privatisation has been overwhelmingly negative. The necessary foundation for a socially sustainable world is respect for the dignity and human rights of workers. The starting point for an understanding of human
rights is the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and for labour rights, it is the International Labour Organization (ILO) Labour Standards, especially the ILO’s Core Labour Standards. On close examination, it is quickly apparent that the greatest threat to working conditions and workers’ rights in today’s energy industries is not a climate policy. By far, the threat to quality sustainable employment and workers’ rights continues to be globalisation, technological change, and the replacement of high-quality jobs with contract and other forms of precarious employment. In many parts of the world, the mining and oil industries have an unfortunate
reputation for ruthless treatment of workers, local populations, and Indigenous peoples, violations of human rights, and labour rights. The same multinational companies sometimes present quite a different face in the developed world than they do in their operations in the developing world. This behaviour too has had little or nothing to do with climate change policies. This is not to say that workers do not have legitimate concerns about how measures to protect the climate will be implemented. The desire to fight global climate change will play an important role in the evolution of working conditions and labour rights. It is not only important to create new, greener jobs (Continued on page 5)
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Police integrity cannot be achieved on the basis of a one-off event DEAR EDITOR, The Symposium on Police Integrity held recently to discuss integrity in policing raises a number of questions. The fundamental question has to do with the concept of integrity and its application to extant institutional and constitutional arrangements in Guyana. First on the question of integrity, according to England’s Lord Justice, John Fletcher Moulton; “ “The true test of greatness is the extent to which individuals composing the nation can be trusted to obey self-imposed laws.” In other words, do what is right where there is no one to make you do it but yourself. Secondly, in respect to institutional and Constitutional arrangements, in our country, there is a Constitutional body called The Integrity Commission - it is a creature of Act No. 20 under Articles 13 and 18 of the Constitution of Guyana. According to the Act, persons employed by government are required to ‘file with the Commission, an Annual Declaration that shall give full, true and complete particulars of assets and liabilities and income for a period of twelve months’. The Act stipulates further that the person filing the Declaration must indicate ‘whether the assets were (sic!) held by that person and the
spouse and children of such person to the extent to which such person has knowledge of the same.’ Apparently, the Integrity Commission is of no relevance to the Guyana Police Force insofar as the pursuit of integrity is concerned, thus, it was not surprising that, even though a new Commission is yet to be appointed, mention of the Commission’s role was a conspicuous ‘No No’ at the symposium. The Commission aside, there exists two Acts, and one Constitutional body whose task, inter alia, treats with integrity within the GPF. They are; The Police Act, Cap.16:01 (1957); the Police (Discipline) Act, Cap.17:01 (1975) and the Police Service Commission (1975); then there is the Standing Orders of the GPF that is based on widely recognised experiences, knowledge and historically developed rules. These laws, regulations, orders and service commission, have been in place for decades, but suddenly their effectiveness or ineffectiveness was brought under the microscope giving rise to the need to convene a symposium on police integrity. Experience has shown that neither the laws, regulations nor Force Orders are problematic - on the contrary, it is the frailties of human nature that constitute
the greatest threat to integrity in general and police integrity in particular. Recall our recent election experience. With adequate Constitutional arrangements and electoral laws and regulations in place at that time, yet they were blatantly violated by persons bent on thwarting the will of the people. Thus, it was neither the constitutional nor electoral laws that allowed for rigging, it was greed to hold on to power. Former President David Granger said he wanted an ‘unbribable’ Commissioner of Police to oversee the GPF yet his administration abolished integrity/ polygraph testing for senior ranks of the GPF. Integrity/polygraph tests proved to be an innovative tool introduced in 2006 by the PPP/C administration for the first time in Guyana primarily for law enforcement operatives including members of the GPF. The aim was to tackle corruption in the GPF at the individual level using integrity/polygraph tests as a scientific tool to do so. However, the significant successes notwithstanding, a claim was advanced by the police hierarchy that ranks could not be disciplined nor charged because of failure to pass a polygraph/integrity test. This argument was further buttressed by the claim that
ranks can only be charged and/or disciplined under the Police (Discipline) Act. Consequently, none of the high number of ranks was disciplined by or dismissed from the Force. Faced with the option to either introduce Preemployment Integrity Tests at the recruitment stage of prospective applicants or to transfer those who failed the test to other police departments or Station Districts, government opted to pursue the former while pursuing the latter with a view to implementation. Experience teaches that recruitment into the GPF should be based on the principle that no applicant should be recruited where serious doubts exist. Careful background checks and polygraph screening followed by rigorous training and supervision must be obligatory. And while academic qualifications and ethnic diversity in a Guyanese context are necessary, these should be balanced against prevailing customs and mores in society. Incidentally, included in the four components of the 2013 Capita-Symonds Strategic Plan for the GPF was the question of police integrity. This was to be implemented through an; ‘early intervention strategy to identify and correct deviant
UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow... From page 4 high-quality, unionised ones – we must also make existing jobs greener and create a “Just Transition” with sound policies and solid social programmes. This will need progress on many fronts. Conservation alone will not win the day; we will also need advanced technologies, such as carbon capture and sequestration/storage, nanotechnology, ‘green chemistry’, and biotechnology. Without a deliberate plan for a just transition, there will be an unjust one. Working people and their families will pay yet again for the mistakes of the rich. At COP-26 in Glasgow, Scotland that a fair, ambitious,
and legally binding agreement on global greenhouse emissions is necessary, but that the legitimate concerns of workers for social justice and long-term employment must be addressed for it to gain the necessary support. Despite our best efforts, COP-26 produced only a political face-
saving document. Workers’ concerns must be carried into future climate negotiations. Yours sincerely,
Sherwood Clarke General President CCWU
behaviour; the establishment of an Internal Affairs Unit similar to what obtains in the US and new methods of conducting drivers’ examinations by Certifying Officers.’ The 2020 election intervened and the APNU+AFC scuppered the plan. In retrospect, the aforementioned matters should have hung together rather than separately since generally and holistically their target concept was police integrity. Compounding that deficiency was a refusal by Force headquarters to acknowledge that integrity in policing must co-exist with openness, and when pursued, it should not be hamstrung by suspicion, nor be subjective and empirical in its orientation. Historically, police integrity has been constantly trumped by a passion for secrecy and a lust to conceal acts of corruption. It is this dual malpractice that facilitates a culture of drawing ranks away from the constraints of law enforcement and into the syndrome of a genre of integrity that is continuously
questioned. Police integrity cannot be achieved on the basis of a one-off event. It must be pursued and sustained at the individual and institutional level. And its betrayal must be rooted out with persistent and enduring vigilance. What is totally unacceptable is while competent and honourable police officers do their levelbest to serve the public, lazy, inept and corrupt ranks betray the public’s trust and their fellow officers. In the circumstances, the establishment of a Civilian Complaints Review Board as an oversight body could prove helpful. I close with the following piece of advice to ranks of the GPF and others who either underestimate or have no appreciation for integrity; “Everything secret degenerates, even the administration of justice; nothing is safe that does not show it can bear discussion and publicity.” -Lord Acton. Yours faithfully, Clement J. Rohee Former Minister of Home Affairs
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This society urgently needs the watchdog commissions in place DEAR EDITOR, The Sunday papers brought small stirrings of interest. Both SN and KN had captions of Article 13, a new civil society group, taking a stand on long overdue issues, some pivotal oversight commissions. I state where I stand. This society urgently needs the watchdog commissions identified by Article 13. Functioning Procurement, Judicial Service, and Public Service Commissions have all been nonexistent for some time. I think that it is deliberate on the part of the PPP leaders, who try every delaying trick, so that they can rush full speed ahead with the shenanigans, for which they have long been known. In a time of inaction (goods and projects) that may be allowed to pass unaddressed, but only briefly. But in a period when there has been so much spending and contracting and acquiring, and planning of greater degrees of activity in all three areas, not to have overseers in place, especially procurement, does not speak well of the integrity and am-
bitions of PPP stewards. I call such ambitions for what they are: suspicious (at best), criminal, at their worst. President and Vice President, and their cabal of corroborating ministers and public servants are good at generating windstorms with words. In the wake of these elected and selected officials, there are the mudslides of ugliness, of what should have been, but are not. And of what did occur, and questions of how that could be, under the watch of any who say they are about transparency and accountability. It is as if they have arranged a statewide apparatus to accommodate doing business a certain way. From my perspective, there are no ifs about that dirty crooked way it is. The President and Vice President prioritise anything that is about grand spending and procuring, but of proper screening of, and accounting for, their actions, and those of their likeminded cast, they are grossly indifferent. Of course, they get the Hon Attorney General to follow after them with his cleaning broom and mop, as if his sanitising
words and postures of what his group intends persuade any principled or conscientious Guyanese. Matters have risen to such a farcical state here, things that the Cabinet in pursuit of its twisted agendas gives “no objection(s)” on what starts with it, is powered by it, and then comes right back to it, for this utter vulgarity of tendering “no objection(s)” on itself. This is but one of the matters that Article 13 drew attention to, that it seeks results (not more deceptive, delaying words). If not, the law would take its course. Well, they are looking to load up on judges, which provokes some thinking of who and what kind they will get, for the lip service to constitution and clean governance to continue. In closing, I am guarded about Article 13, such is my cynicisms about local civil society people. Today, I laud it. Perhaps, we may have something good going here. I watch. Sincerely, GHK Lall
Some questions to Stabroek News DEAR EDITOR One observes the notice to letter writers in SN of November 04, which speaks, amongst others to the relative brevity of submissions. Does it apply to current and former political leaders, and indeed official representatives of public and private sector
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organisations? Also, does it apply to letters that seek to provide objective information about public organisations, for the benefit of concerned parties, particularly decision-makers who are relatively unfamiliar with assigned portfolios? Do the strictures apply to
all ethnic groups? Where else should freedom of expression be allowed to citizens (who are electors)? Incidentally, should readers complain about the length of SN’s usually well structured Editorials? Regards Citizen
What about penalties and measures for the Chairman and Commissioners of GECOM? DEAR EDITOR The proposed raft of measures and penalties for elections malfeasance was certainly crafted to avenge and avoid a repeat of 2020. But what of the composition of the Commission? The current make-up which facilitates grid-lock very often needs to be reconstituted and restructured to
better serve the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Further, what about penalties and measures against the chairman and or commissioners who might try to thwart and interfere with the elections and its outcome, which might have been the case with the unilateral appointment, which
was ruled illegal and overturned by CCJ? Or the current chairperson who failed to take decisive action in ensuring the court ruling was followed by the Region Four RO in tabulation of the Region when he tried to introduce and work his magic? Sincerely Shamshun Mohamed
The Police Integrity Symposium DEAR EDITOR Recently, the Guyana Police Force conducted what it called its, Inaugural Integrity in Policing symposium at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. I am not certain what the objective/ objectives were. However, I read excerpts of the presentations by the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs and the Top Cop. After speaking with some participants, I got the impression that the thrust of the symposium was about attitude and behaviour of members of the Force. It is so nice to know that the police are attempting to address and influence the behaviour of their members, which has constantly come into serious public criticism. As a retired member of the Force who has an abiding interest in law enforcement, I wish to posit some free advice on integrity for the police. Generally, police appreciate freebies. Editor, please permit me to elaborate. A simple definition for integrity is the steadfast adherence to an ethical code. According to Wayne W. Bennett and Karen M. Hess in their book, Management and Supervision of Law Enforcement, “Ethical codes
usually have at least three important themes: Justice and fairness is the dominant theme. Officers are not to take advantage of people or accept gratuities. Because of the importance of law and the police as tools of the Constitution, law enforcement behaviour must be totally within the bounds set by the law. At all times, law enforcement officers must uphold a standard of behaviour consistent with their public position. A good starting point to promote ethical behaviour and integrity is to eliminate the code of silence: “The code of silence encourages members of the Force not to speak up when they see another member doing something wrong.”Fulton (2000) stresses: “Police commanders must exemplify the honesty and integrity they seek in their subordinates.” In addition, “Ethical mentoring and role modeling should be consistent, frequent and visible.” McCarthy (2000) presents seven steps that can help prevent unethical behaviour and promote integrity: “ (1) Recruit with great care. (2) Establish appropriate policies and put them in writing. (3) Adopt a good em-
ployee evaluation process. (4) Make sure your sergeants share management’s values and philosophies. (5) Develop operational controls. (6) Perform regular anti corruption inspections and audits. And (7) implement ethics and integrity training into every training activity.” Change involves alteration of attitudes and work behaviour as individuals, as team members and as members of the department. If police are not self-developed nor developed by leaders at all levels, where will the future leaders come from? The groups of people that have the most ability to create an organisational culture based on integrity are the subordinate officers. True, they may not be able to change the department but they can change their squad. Inspectors and junior officers may not be able to change the department but they can change the large number of ranks under their control. At some point, these subordinate officers, inspectors and junior officers will be the regional division and other commanders - the senior officers, where they may be able to change the department. Focus heavily on them. Regards Clinton Conway
Time to start planning for a new location for our Capital City DEAR EDITOR, Given the renewed urgency expressed, and based on the recent studies of future flooding and the cities to be negatively impacted, it is extremely urgent that our Government act accordingly. There is no longer time for further debate on whether or not a new city is needed. Planning and Implementation have to occur within this decade, with an emphasis on the plan’s implementation to ensure that the majority of our population is relocated to higher ground outside of the future flood zone. The study that has highlighted Bartica as a potential
new location for our Capital must now be utilised and given the highest priority for investment in infrastructure, housing and agriculture. Going further inland will delay the rebuilding process. Time is of the essence and no further waste of our current and future economic strength must take place. Our new Capital City is where the house lots must be given; this is where the hospitals and schools must be built; this is where GuySuCo and our farmers must invest and expand; this is where new roads must be built and new wells dug; this is where priority must be given to for-
eign investors for the building of hotels and restaurants; this is where new government offices are needed. Over half of our population is at risk in Georgetown and a large percent of our food supply is also vulnerable. Time is of the essence and we must act now if we as a Nation are to avoid the hardships, diseases and economic loss that will come as the sea level rises and the rains increase along the coast. Sincerely, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
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Kaieteur News
All of us have lost as a result of this latest foul-up Everybody, I know, would be glad to have been in the same position as those severed sugar workers who will receive a one-off grant of G$250,000 from the government. But all the hopefuls know that the government does not have the means to pay every person G$250,000. Well not quite! Let us consider the recent scandal of the US$9B in post-2017 oil expenses which for some inexplicable reason were not audited by the PPP/C administration. If through that audit, Guyana was able to claw back just 10 percent of that US$9B, it would amount to US$900M. This works out to an average of US$1,200 for every man, woman and child. Converted at US$1=G$210, this works out to G$250,000 per citizen. Now if you have a household comprising of a husband, a wife and two children, the total combined income to this household would be one million Guyana dollars. So, it would mean that the average household (of four persons) would receive four times what the severed sugar workers received. Had the country been able to claw back a mere 10 percent from the post-2017 audit, every Guyanese could have received G$250,000. Instead of receiving G$250,000, every man, woman and child now has to pay that sum to repay Exxon for the expenses which it submitted and which the government failed to audit. Now, some persons, like Glenn Lall, the publisher of this newspaper, believe that 10 percent is too conservative.
Glenn, in particular, believes that we should be looking at a higher percentage than 10 percent since he is of the belief that we should be looking for expenses, which are not recoverable costs; we should be looking for inflated expenses; and we should be scrutinising the expenses for transfer pricing. But for the sake of argument, let us stick to the conservative figure of 10 percent. It is unconscionable for any government to claim that it was unable to undertake the audit, especially considering that we are dealing with billions of dollars. There can be no excuse for what happened. One senior counsel has said this could amount to dereliction of duty. In other parts of the world, governments would have had to resign over such a failure. But in Guyana, we are so divided that this will become yet another issue on which some will be faulting the government and others defending them, almost in equal proportion. But every Guyanese has potentially lost money as result of this failure. And this is why all Guyanese should raise their voices and demand that whoever is responsible for this failure should be accountable and never again be allowed to sit in public office. The cheerleaders of the government will try to blame the APNU+AFC for, in the first place signing an agreement, which limits audits to two years. They will also blame the Coalition for not commencing the audit. The two-year time limit
has been subject to criticism. But two years is not an unreasonable time for a country to audit its oil exploration and production expenses. This is quite a reasonable period and any government, which cannot audit the books of the oil companies in two years should not be in the oil and gas business. The PPP/C has been in office for 15 months. It knew what it inherited. Its senior officials acknowledged that audits had to be done. They never said that this was a mission impossible. In fact, one of them promised that every cent would have been audited. Instead, now we are being fed a pack of excuses about lack of local capability. Advertisements were also placed inviting expressions of interest for the audits. If these were found not to be suitable because of the absence of suitable local partners, then the problem is not with the foreign firm but with the local content requirement and the person or persons who had a brainwave to impose this requirement should accept the error and do the decent thing. Guyanese cannot continue to be governed in such a manner. This has been a major foul-up. And coming on the backs of the failure to finalise the country /s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and only now having consultations on the Low Carbon Development Strategy, raises serious questions about the management of the country / s oil and gas sector and the environment.
Dem Boys Seh…
Give de small man a bite of de cherry Dem boys went in de bank yesterday to mek a deposit. When dem boys meet up to de teller, dem decide fuh ask wah is de interest rate wah dem banking paying fuh deposits. When dem boys hear de figure, dem boys nearly drop dead. Is less dan a half of one percent. Right away dem boys tell de teller nah bother with de deposit. She ask why and dem boys seh, with dat interest rate wah dem paying, it costing more fuh de special hire to and from de bank dan de interest fuh
a whole year. But dem boys know dat nuff Guyanese using dem bank as safe deposit boxes. De interest can ?t pay but de money safer in de bank dan in de house. But dem boys prefer fuh invest dem money and dem looking at becoming a syndicated investor with de guvament. Dem boys know dat dem banks gat billions ah dollars in liquid cash. Dem does call dat liquidity. De banks awash with liquidity. And nuff ah dis liquidity belong to poor people wah depositing dem two cents every month. So why
Guyanese people can ?t get a bite in de gas-to-shore project? Why de guvament nah guarantee a rate of return fuh encourage Guyanese fuh finance de project. Or is only de guvament friends can get a bite ah de cherry? And why de guvament nah do de same bout de Amaila project? Why ask de Chinese fuh build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT)? Why not give de small depositors a lil bite ah de cherry? Talk half and find out if dem gat syndicated investors in dem business model.
It is time for Guyanese people to say enough is enough and demand that someone be held responsible for this maddening state of affairs. This person should be
asked to do the decent thing C tender a resignation. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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Tuesday November 09, 2021
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Leadership: Trump, Tom Adams, Mia Mottley and Dr. Irfaan Ali The dislike for Donald Trump by people around the world will continue until Trump fades from the scene. But there are things about Trump that were interesting when he was president. As a head of government, he knew how to retain people’s interest in him thus preserving support for him. Trump saw himself as a leader of people and thus spoke on things he believed citizens were interested in, no matter how small and unimportant. His objective was that if he speaks on any issue, he will not lose because he remains in contact with the people who want him to address things that are on their minds no matter how routine these things are. Not many presidents and prime ministers have this trait. Once in power, presidents and prime minister become so busy that many little things that bother citizens they do not touch on because they feel the
subjects are not national in scope and it may not be good protocol to be dealing with tiny matters. They also believe that their subordinates are the persons who should pronounce on these details. A former prime minister of Barbados, Tom Adams (deceased), was like Trump. Adams did not see any issue as too inconsequential for him to give attention to. R e c e n t l y, t h e P M o f Barbados, Mia Mottley did something that I think President Ali should adopt. This direction is a win-win situation. A prime minister or president cannot lose if they adopt this stance. Here is what PM Mottley said openly and her remarks travelled throughout the Caribbean. In criticising the ways the Barbadian commercial banks greet customers, she noted: “The next thing we are going to hear is that the bank is going to charge you a fee depending on how skinny
you are or how fat you are or depending on how much pressure you put on the ATM ( b u tto n s ) o r otherwise. It cannot be.” This is what leadership is about. A head of government is a powerful person. When a head of government chastises an institution or organisation or public servant or private business for wrongdoing or mistreatment, it will have an effect. There is no guarantee that the remarks will bring about changes but the leader has nothing to lose by saying it. It can bring about improvement. From President Desmond Hoyte right through to David Granger, every Guyanese president chose not to comment on little vexations that anger low-income folks and poor people. Do you know PM Mottley was not the first head of government in CARICOM to reflect on the mistreatment by the commercial banks? It was
our own, president here, Dr. Ali. His comments were made through me, which I publicised. In a conversation, he said that he read the column on my criticism on how the commercial banks treat working class folks. In fact, I didn’t know the exact sum you can deposit without having to go fill up a document with a long list of question in keeping with the money-laundering act. It was in that conversation with the president, I knew the amount. The banks violate people’s rights daily because they ask you to answer those questions for very small amounts. I get complaints about the commercial banks all the time and I think it is time that the government creates a human rights desk with authority to have violations in this entire country corrected. I would apply for that position. When prime ministers and presidents react to the
hurt and pain, which the lowincome people endure then little incremental changes will come about and those aggrieved hassles will be removed from Frederick Kissoon people’s lives. I will never forget how engineer, Marcel know a businessman who Gaskin reacted to comments called the cell phone of a I made on a television very, very powerful figure at programme when we were the GRA. He answered, and acted on the complaint part of a wider panel. I described the hassles immediately. I know this ordinary folks go through, because I was there. I wrote (the kind of things, PM that very gentleman three Mottley and President Ali t i m e s a n d c a l l e d h i s spoke about) and Mr. secretary umpteen times on a Gaskin, in agreement, he certain issue and never got a said he sympathizes but he reply. I don’t have status, personally does not get class and wealth for that involved in those things. GRA big wig to want to What I believe Mr. Gaskin respond to me. meant, though he did not (The views expressed in elaborate, is that he has his this article are those of the staff to deal with those author and do not issues. But ordinary people have necessarily reflect the to face these adversities. I opinions of this newspaper.)
Tripartite agreement inked for persons to be trained for Oil and Gas Sector In a bid to increase the number of skilled persons seeking to join the budding Oil and Gas Sector, the University of Guyana (UG) has inked an agreement with the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) and CBMEX Energy Guyana. In a release, UG noted t h a t o n We d n e s d a y , November 3, 2021, it entered into the tripartite agreement which would pave the way for more persons to be trained in the oil and gas sector, placing Guyana in a better position to take advantage of opportunities in the budding sector. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the release added, was signed during a simple ceremony at the GOGEC Head Office at Middle Street, North C u m m i n g s b u rg , Georgetown. It was signed by the University of Guyana’s Vice-Chancellor, XI, Prof. Paloma Mohamed Martin; Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, President, Mr. Manniram Prashad; and CBMEX, Board Member, Mr. Milton E. Chaves. The signing was also witnessed by Mr. Antonio Cruz-Diaz, Charge’d Affairs (a.i.). Embassy of Mexico and Mr. Alex Armogan, Founding
From left: Charge D’affaires at the Embassy of Mexico, Antonio Cruz; President of GOGEC, Manniram Prashad, University of Guyana’s Vice-Chancellor, XI, Prof. Paloma Mohamed Martin, Board Member, CBMEX Milton E. Chaves; and UG’s Director of the Institute of Energy, Mr. Alex Armogan.
Director of UG’s Institute for Energy Diplomacy (UGIED). UG’s Vice-Chancellor, XI, Prof. Mohamed Martin acknowledged that the University has recognised that the question for training in oil and gas is critical to the country. “We have local content targets that have to be met…we are behind the training curve because of
how fast these oil and gas projects were developed. There is a huge amount of training to be done, not only in oil and gas, but also in human resources, occupational health and safety, computing and data analytics, financing and accounting, and legal areas,” the VC explained. Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber President, Mr. Manniram Prashad
noted that GOGEC is happy to collaborate with the University of Guyana and CBMEX to foster closer relations and cooperation in the training initiative. A c c o r d i n g t o M r. Prashad, GOGEC aims to train over 1,000 students throughout the country from next year. “We will be working closely with the University and CBMEX to have this programme on
track which has proven to be v e r y s u c c e s s f u l , ” M r. Prashad said. CBMEX, Board Member, Mr. Milton E. Chaves noted that this is a milestone for his organisation to partner with the University of Guyana and GOGEC in this initiative. Mr. Chaves said: “We bring the best training in international oil and gas training into countries that
are entering into the energy field...our utmost goal is to enrich the lives of the Guyanese people through training in the oil and gas sector.” UG’s Institute for Energy Diplomacy, Director, Mr. Alex Armogan, who played a pivotal role in the formation of the MoU posited: “UG’s IED is focused on capacity building geared towards meeting local content requirements. We must optimise the local content framework based on what is realistically achievable, capacity building is essential to developing our local capabilities. We welcome all public and private strategic partnerships to forward this initiative.” Mr. Armogan, detailed that UG’s IED is offering co u r s es in C r u d e O il Trading, Energy Markets, Energy Transportation and Shipping, and Oil and Gas Value Chain. Also, soon to come on stream are; Energy Project Investment and Finance, Oil and Gas Negotiations, Oil and Gas Law, and Oil and Gas Project Planning and Management. The University of Guyana offers over 20 programmes in Energy including oil and gas and petroleum engineering.
Tuesday November 09, 2021
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Tuesday November 09, 2021
Guyana wants up to US$54B annually for forest services Guyana’s Head of State, President Irfaan Ali and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo have, in recent months and weeks, been making a case for a carbon market for countries such as Guyana to be paid for its forest services provided to the world in the form of sequestering carbon emissions from the atmosphere. To t h i s e n d , t h e administration believes that Guyana’s forests alone provide value that is estimated to range between US$40 and US$54 billion annually. “Yet, this value is not recognised in monetary terms” and “by contrast, jobs and economic value can be generated by clearing forests for agriculture, mining,
infrastructure, and other uses.” These assertions are laid out in the administration’s latest version of its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 which aims to build on its p r e d e c e s s o r ’s p o l i c y document. According to the document — since made public for public consultations—”this is a global problem and one of the reasons that the world’s tropical forests are worth more dead than alive and forest areas that are the size of Greece disappear each year, causing about 16 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.” To this end, the expanded LCDS outlines that Guyana has the second highest
percentage of forest cover on earth and is working with partners to sustain 99.5 percent of that forest while building the foundation for a new low carbon, ecosystem economy. It was noted that the expected opportunity to access a market mechanism for forest climate services, and other ecosystem services, will enable Guyana to store 19.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and pointed out that the world emits about 50 billion tons a year. “At the same time, Guyana can grow its economy five-fold over 20 years and keep energy emissions flat; invest in Amerindian, Hinterland and sustainability planning; protect the coast and Hinterland from climate change; create jobs; and integrate Guyana’s economy with its neighbours,” the document adds. As it relates to Forest Climate Services and other Ecosystem Services, the report outlines that from early 2022, there is a strong possibility that Guyana can access market-based mechanisms for forest climate services that include private, as well as international public sector financing. It notes, “This will enable a pathway to transition from the existing Guyana-Norway partnership and increase the value of sustainably managing Guyana’s forests.” Guyana’s forestry sector
currently accounts for approximately US$40 million to US$60 million in export value annually and employs over 20,000 persons. There are 17 large concessions in Guyana and 580 small concessions, all of which are leased to and operated by community forest operators and private individuals/companies. The State holds no equity or other management interest in any forest concession and Government, through the Guyana Forestry Commission, monitors and regulates the activities of forest concessions to ensure that strict sustainable forest management rules and guidelines are implemented, and that forest legislation is implemented effectively by operators. To t h i s e n d , t h e
document illustrates that the long-term future of forest carbon markets is expected to be underpinned through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) rules and corresponding international agreements. As a bridge to a longterm mechanism, Guyana may seek to access marketbased mechanisms for forest carbon through integration with existing or new compliance markets or highquality voluntary markets. The report said Guyana’s significant progress on building a world-leading M RV S ( M o n i t o r i n g Reporting Verification System), coupled with the recent emergence of a large voluntary market with demand supported by sovereign governments, “means that from early 2022,
- LCDS 2030
there is a strong possibility that Guyana’s sale of forest climate services can be structured around highquality voluntary markets that include private, as well as international public sector financing.” It was noted too that no binding agreements will be entered into until all safeguard related requirements have been met. According to the document, Guyana will approach carbon market integration in the period 2021 to 2030 in two phases, firstly by generating credits to be traded on voluntary carbon marketplaces, with independent verification of the quality of those credits and their adherence to the rules of the marketplaces. Credits will adhere to UNFCCC guidance on REDD+, pending the launch of a full REDD+ mechanism. A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e document states that Guyana will enhance the quality of its credits further through establishing a national carbon registry, integrated with international markets and with any future REDD+ mechanism under the UNFCCC. This, the document states, will be done in accordance with the rules of all relevant international agreements on markets and carbon trading. It will be underpinned by domestic regulation and/or legislation as necessary for market integration and UNFCCC compliance.
Marine Corps 246th birthday celebration
Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch and Dr. Healey with Marine Corps members. In honour of the 246th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps, Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch hosted a small gathering at her residence on November 6, last. The U.S. Marine Security Guards marked the occasion with Ambassador Lynch as the guest of honour and guest speaker. The Ambassador read a greeting from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, thanking the Marines for their longstanding service and sacrifice for their
nation. In keeping with the tradition of the ceremonial participation of the oldest Marine, Retired Colonel Brian Chin from Georgetown attended. For more than 200 years, Marines have been engaged with American diplomacy. U.S. Marines have been detailed as a security force escorting diplomatic personnel; they have defended, and rescued personnel at American embassies and consulates around the globe, safeguarding the
commitment of the United States to the quest for peace and freedom worldwide. The connection to Guyana is strong; Guyanese American service men and women travel to Guyana by the hundreds every year to visit family. Their dedication to service and security is a testament to the bond that exists between our two nations. Happy birthday, U.S. Marines! (Embassy of the United States of America )
Tuesday November 09, 2021
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Tuesday November 09, 2021
Failure to audit Exxon’s US$9.5B spending is criminal Guyana’s failure to audit Exxon’s US$9.5B spending is tantamount to the Government aiding and abetting the fleecing of Guyana’s resources. This is according to
…no excuse can absolve Govt. of this grave sin - Dr. Jailall Canadian based Guyanese, Dr. Jerry Jailall, who in a public statement to this
publication said the recent revelations by Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who
oversees the oil and gas sector, “that the US$9.5 billion Liza 1 and Liza 2
expenses have not been audited is tantamount to the Government aiding and
Canada-based Guyanese, Dr. Jerry Jailall abetting the fleecing of Guyana’s resources.” As such, he was adamant, “the sin of omission of failure to do audits is as bad as the sin of commission of wrongdoing,” and that “no excuse can absolve the Government of this grave sin against the nation.” According to Dr. Jailall, “this is not Exxon doing it to us. This is our own Government doing it to us.” He suggested that Guyana, at the beginning of its oil journey is already manifesting the “resource curse” syndrome. Dr. Jailall qualified his position by drawing reference to the fact that the ongoing Public Accounts Committee’s hearings “are all about how the country’s monies are being misspent and there is poor accountability, poor record keeping, missing receipts of transactions and payments running into hundreds of millions of dollars, and at the end of the hearings, nobody is going to jai l f o r t h e unaccounted millions.” He pointed also to “poorly equipped hospitals that kill our loved ones, dialysis treatment is unavailable in most of Guyana, most of our village roads are mud roads still, our schools are primitive, internet services are unavailable or poor in most of Guyana, and we have a long list of urgent needs.” Referencing President’s Irfaan Ali’s assertion, “we are a rich nation of poor people,” Dr. Jailall questioned, “what sins have we committed that in our politics, we vote for one set of dullards to replace the previous set? When is this vicious cycle going to stop?” According to Dr. Jailall, this publication in addition to its publisher, Glenn Lall, other private newspapers, the Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN), Transparency International Guyana Inc (TIGI), environmental groups, and Continued on page 18
Tuesday November 09, 2021
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Kaieteur News
Ministry receives $417M for tourism development FOR RENT Fully furnished self-contained bedrooms house, Bougainvillea EBD $3,000 USD.Tel:223-6218,226-5546. SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES,AIR CONDITIONER, WASHING MACHINE, FREEZER,SALE OF AC'S. TEL#629-4946, 2254822.
Office space for rent,air conditioned,water & wifi, East North Cummingsburg $100,000 per month.Tel:2236218,226-5546. 3 bedrooms bottom flat, Located Peter Rose St Queenstown $150,000 per month.Tel:223-6218,2265546. Bond Space,900 sq ft,2 office space,spacious parking Eccles.Tel:223-6218,2265546. Unfurnished 2 bedrooms apt, Mon Repos $100,000 per month.Tel:223-6218,2265546.
FOR SALE Transported house lots for sale.Gated community,4Mil per lot.Call:671-9015/6221957.
4 bedrooms self-contained house,Farm EBD $4,000 USD per month.Tel:223-6218,2265546. 4 bedrooms self-contained house,Atlantic Garden $4,000 USD per month. Tel:2236218,226-5546. 3 bedrooms house, Queenstown $170,000 per month.Tel:223-6218,2265546.
FOR RENT 3 bedroom, upperflat & lower flat. Newly renovated, in residential area with parking. 266 New Market Street. Call: 6105472.
Commercial building ground floor 32x41 ft,Carmichael St $300,000 per month.Tel:2236218,226-5546.
Two bedroom apartment to rent on E.C.D.Tel:601-2515. 1 bedroom apartment to rent in Blygezight Gardens.Fully grilled air conditioning & free wifi.Contact 673-3100. Fully furnished house 3 bedrooms.Price $5,000 USD, Located Atlantic Gaden. Tel:223-6218,226-5546.
VACANCY LAND FOR SALE La Penitence, Eccles, Carmichael St,Cummings lodge 2 acres,La Grange, Carnelia Rda.Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685.
Semi furnished 2 bedrooms upper apartment.Price $1,200 USD,LocatedPrashad Nagar.Tel:223-6218,2265546. Fully furnished 3 bedrooms house.Price $4,000 USD, Located Richmond Hill, P r o v i d e n c e . Te l : 2 2 3 6218,226-5546. Fully furnished 3 bedrooms house.Spacious parking Windsor Estate $4,500 USD.Tel:223-6218,226-5546.
PROPERTY FOR SALE 2 bedroom wooden house for sale in Ulverston Berbice for $1.5million,land not included. Contact: 650-5626. Queenstown,Sheriff St,Charlotte,Robb, Betterhope,E nterprise, Diamond,Zeelught.Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685.
Fully furnished 6 bedrooms house AC, hot & cold bath ,backup generator, Eccles NewScheme$3,500 USD. Tel:223-6218,226-5546. Fully furnished 3 bedrooms house,Republic Gardens $3,000 USD.Tel:223-6218,2265546.
The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), an arm of WANTED the Ministry of Tourism, 1 full time Industrial me- Industry and Commerce, has chanic to manage workshop received a whopping $417M at JFWW Network Outlet. in this year’s Budget to aid in Call:622-1957,671-9015,233- the development and promotion of the sector. 6997. This is according to Customer Service Rep/Dis- Minister of Tourism, Industry patcher, must be familiar with and Commerce, Oneidge l o c a t i o n s a r o u n d Walrond. In an exclusive Georgetown. Call: 621-9356. interview with this media Supervisor, Counter Clerk, house, Minister Walrond Hymac & Diesel Mechanic detailed some of her plans for to work in charity. Call: 223- the sector, even as Tourism Awareness Month is 5273/688-0417. observed. 1 able bodied driver, ages She said, as part of the 25+. Must have truck license. development and promotion Ice Factory Mon Repos, of the sector, the Ministry is Call: 220-3459, between 8-4. seeking to commence a Resort Week, where outdoor fans One male able bodied clerk. and lovers of nature can enjoy Call: 225-2313/226-1497. the wonders of Guyana. “The Ministry of Tourism, 1 living in general domestic Industry and Commerce is cleaner.Contact 637-4605. working with the Tourism and Waitress for bar.Call:657- Hospitality Association of 6547. Guyana, Visit Rupununi and Sales girls wanted. other partners to develop a Bourdamarket A & B. Call: model for Resort Week,” the Minister explained. 227-7304. Such an initiative is likely 2 soup cooks,2 kitchen as- to fashion that of Guyana sistants. Must have experi- Restaurant Week, a highly ence. Good pay.Police clear- anticipated event that usually ance needed.Call:697-1955. allows food lovers the Experienced Welder/Fabrica- opportunity to tantalise their tor with the knowledge of taste buds, with flavours from welding,driving would be an participating restaurants. asset.Call:618-9186/225- Important to note is that this treat comes at a discounted 9304. price. One female cook to work In this regard, the Tourism Iteballi landing & one for Minister told Kaieteur News bush.Call:672-7275. that “For Tourism Awareness Month 2021, the Ministry, through GTA, has worked with tourism operators to
PENPAL Male seeks female 18-38 to live with or marry. Call: 6039085.
VACANCY
Immediate vacancy exists for male workers @Del Ice Co.Call:231-1408/642-9191
Auto Electrical apprentice age 19-25 yrs.Apply in person, Lot 120 Forth Street Albertown G/Town or call 610-0340.
One general domestic.Must be able to prepare vegetarian meal.Apply at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda. 225-5800/623-1615.
Exist for Security Officers, Male & Female. 18yrs & above. Contact: 223-4172/ 632-0099
Senior & Sales Clerk,Cashier with 4 years working experience. Apply at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda.
Trained Grade 1 & 2 teachers needed. Payment will commence with experience and will be in 6 digit,6231615. Exists for Porters. Call: 223For porters & lorry driver. 5273-4/621-5907 Apply at Alabama Trading. Experienced carpenter & ap- Tel:225-5800. prentice. Contact: 624-9507/ Experienced Manager/Super624-9509/624-9508. visor needed.Send applicaMaintenance workers & tion to Alabama Trading,65 labourers to work with Robb St Bourda.Tel:225-5800. P.S.G.C.S. Preferably from E.B.D. Call: 621-6969/615- Pump Attendant/Cashier, shifts (6AM-2PM & 2PM7784. 10PM).ShellStation Immediate vacancy exists for ProvidenceE.B.D, email: One female cashier to Shellramsburg@gmail.com. work@Del Ice Co.Call:6429191,231-1408 between Maid to cook and clean for East Bank.Call: 615-9132. 8AM-1PM. For truck drivers, must know how to operate Hiab & have knowledge of Georgetown. Call: 223-5273-4/621-5907
- Resort Week in the making
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond reduce the prices of tourism packages. Prices have been slashed significantly to induce travel from the public. All specials are being hosted by conditionally approved businesses.” In addition to this, she noted that the Ministry has been working along with the Guyana Tourism Authority to develop new experiential tourism products and will be co-launching seven new products in Tourism Awareness Month. This, she said, will increase the tourism product diversity and expand the portfolio for Destination Guyana. “The intention is to increase travel across all of
Guyana’s Regions. New tourism circuits are under development in Regions One, Two, Seven and Nine. This will augment the development of products, increase marketing efforts and improve the skillset of tourism actors,” according to Minister Walrond. This year, Tourism Awareness Month is being held under the theme “Preparing for a New FrontierStimulating Innovation and New Businesses within the tourism sector.” Under her leadership, Minister Walrond said the major areas of focus include Marketing, Product Development, Training and Capacity Building, Research and Data Collection. At the launching of Tourism Month, Walrond told those in attendance that Guyana is “uniquely positioned as a premier destination for eco-tourism with numerous eco lodges and camping sites, especially throughout the interior regions, with an understanding of the still untapped potential”. In 2019, Guyana copped the title for World’s Best EcoTourism Destination.
Savings from audit of Exxon’s... From page 3 with these critical audits. He said the absence of strong local groups to do the audits is what stymied the process. The only costs Guyana stands a chance of auditing and refuting if unreasonable charges are found are those occurring from 2019 onwards. It therefore means that the PPP/C administration still has ample opportunity to review costs expended for ExxonMobil’s Payara Development Project in the Stabroek Block. This project is expected to cost US$9B. INSUFFICIENT TIME International transparency bodies have strongly contended that the two-year deadline the government has accepted, along with the fact that it can only do one audit per year on Exxon, is not sufficient. They have stressed that the timeline should be extended. Specifically making this point over the years is Oxfam America. It has made this perspective known since 2015 alongside the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Oxfam America, a confederation of 20 charitable organisations which seeks to fight poor governance of extractive wealth, has said that the expiration periods for audit rights are set out in petroleum contracts and tax laws. It stressed, however, that these deadlines differ from one country to the next. It noted that in Ghana and Kenya for example, the authorities there retain the right to complete auditing companies within seven years. In Peru, the time limit for audits is a minimum of four years. Even in the USA, the transparency body highlighted that audits are allowed to be completed within a minimum of three years. Oxfam warned however that even a three-year deadline is not advisable for developing countries such as Guyana given the limited financial and human resources that are likely to delay the audit process. Further, the organisation noted that it is equally important to keep an eye on record-keeping provisions in the petroleum contracts and tax laws. It said, “Oil companies should be required to keep all their records in-country for easy access by the auditors during the audit period. But once that period expires, it becomes very costly to access records and therefore practically impossible to audit them…” Oxfam warned that Guyana needs to take the auditing timeline for these costs as a matter of grave concern as it could cost the nation billions more.
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Tuesday November 09, 2021
21-year jail term for man who pleaded guilty to killing Diamond businesswoman
Murdered: Sirmattie Ramnaress
Sentenced: Colin Grant
Colin Grant, the man who pleaded guilty to killing Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD) businesswoman, Sirmattie Ramnaress, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison. The sentence was handed down yesterday at the High Court in Georgetown by Justice Jo Ann Barlow, weeks after Grant, who was originally indicted for murder, pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. Grant had accepted that he committed a crime while the court later freed his alleged accomplice Colin Bailey, a former policeman for lack of evidence. In handing down her sentence, Justice Barlow noted that while Grant had committed a capital offence, which carries grave punishment, the case does not deserve maximum punishment. As such, even as Grant received 21 years imprisonment for the crime, she deducted one-third of the sentence due to his early
guilty plea along with the six years, which he spent on remand. Grant was incarcerated for the murder of Ramnaress, which occurred on August 30 or 31, 2013, at Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. The body of the 36 year-old Ramnaress called ‘Sabo’ was found lying face down at her Diamond, East Bank Demerara residence. It was reported that she was killed in the garage of her home by an alleged hit man. A blaze coming from the w o m a n ’s h o m e l e d firefighters to a bond where they stumbled upon her body. Her body reportedly bore two stab wounds – one to the neck and another to the hip. The police, in a statement said that Ramnaress’ house was ransacked and drenched with a flammable liquid, and a storage bond at the rear of the building was destroyed by the ensuing fire. A post mortem examination performed on Continued on page 17
Ex-GDF rank charged with rape A 30-year-old man of Paradise Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, was arraigned before Magistrate, Ms. Fabio Azore yesterday, charged with the rape of a child below the age of 16. The accused, Randell Williams, appeared in the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court where he was not allowed to plea to the indictable charge when it was read to him. The charge alleged that on Saturday, October 2, 2021, he engaged in sexual penetration with a child below the age of 16. H o w e v e r, h e w a s charged for rape of a child under 16 years contrary to Section 10(3) of the Sexual Offences Act Chapter 8:03. The accused was placed
Ex-GDF rank charged, Randell Williams on $150,000 bail, his passport was lodged and he is required to report to the Cove and John Police Station every Wednesday. The matter was adjourned until December 2, 2021.
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UGBC partners with Nand Persaud Group of Companies for Microbiology Workshop The University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC), in collaboration with the Nand Persaud Group of Companies, recently conducted a basic Microbiology training workshop which saw 56 persons, including biology teachers, staff from the Hydrometeorological Centre, Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and National Agriculture, Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) benefitting. This is according to a release disseminated by the university, which noted that the capacity building sessions were held on October 25 – 28, 2021 at the Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory located at the University’s Johns Science Centre. The event was organised and facilitated by the Director of the University of Guyana Berbice Campus, Professor Gomathinayagam
Participants from the Microbiology Training along with officials from the University of Guyana’s Berbice Campus, NandPersaud Group of Companies, Agriculture Centre for GuySuCo and the Ministry of Health. Subramanian, with support from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). At the opening ceremony, remarks were made on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture by Dr. Richard Blair; UG’s C h a n c e l l o r, P r o f e s s o r Edward Green; UG’s Vice-
Boat builder drowns after boat capsizes in Pomeroon River A boat builder lost his life in the Pomeroon River on Sunday after his boat reportedly capsized. The dead man has been identified as Christopher Williams, a boat builder from Jacklow, Upper Pomeroon River. Reports reaching Kaieteur News suggest that Williams was intoxicated at the time of the incident, which occurred around 17:50hrs within the vicinity of the Charity Waterfront. According to an eyewitness’ account, Williams got into his boat, “bend under his steering wheel, but didn’t get back up.” This publication understands that the boat made its way across the river and crashed into a clump of bushes, before capsizing in the river. Public-spirited rushed to
Dead: Christopher Williams the scene and overturned the vessel. Williams’ body was nowhere to be seen. After a search, it was retrieved from beneath the thick vegetation at the edge of the river bank. His body was later taken to the Oscar Joseph District Hospital where it was pronounced dead by a doctor.
21-year jail term for man who... From page 16 her remains revealed that she died as a result of a ruptured spleen and brain haemorrhaging. In 2015, the police charged Grant, who was Ramnaress’ neighbour, and later arrested Bailey after Grant claimed that he was paid by the policeman to kill his ex-reputed wife and remove the device that stored her surveillance footage. As such, Bailey was arrested subsequently and charged jointly with Grant for the capital offence. Bailey, a former police sergeant, after spending six years behind bars was released following an admission from the prosecution at his trial that it never had any evidence linking him to the murder of his reputed wife of 21 years. Since his release from prison in October, Bailey vowed to sue the State.
Chancellor, XI, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin; Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Lawrence Lewis; Director of the Agriculture Centre for G u y S u C o , M r. G a v i n Ramnarain; Chief Executive Officer (CEO of the Nand Persaud Group of Companies, Mr. Mohindra
Persaud and Chairman of R e g i o n 6 , M r. D a v i d Armogan. In their remarks, the various speakers lauded the initiative and urged that participants use the skills and expertise gained to contribute to national development and to begin to think about developing their capacity
further to link with regional and global developments. At the closing ceremony, remarks were made by UG’s Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r, I X , Professor Mohamed-Martin; Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Dr. Troy Thomas; Director of the GuySuCo’s Agriculture C e n t r e D i r e c t o r, M r.
Ramnarain; Nand Persaud Group of Companies’ CEO, Mr. Persaud and two guest speakers – Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Advisor to the Ministry of Health and Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, Director General, Ministry of Health. In their remarks, the speakers acknowledged the significant impact that UG, in collaboration with one of its major stakeholders, the Nand Persaud Group of Companies, is making towards skills training and capacity building and urged the university to continue its role in human resource development. Participants expressed their gratitude for the training and indicated that they would like to benefit from more such initiatives in order to build their capacity, which would help them to function more efficiently in their area of work.
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Ministry records 3 new COVID-19 deaths Yesterday, the Ministry of Health reported that three more persons, a woman and two men who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease, have died. As a result of this, the country’s COVID-19 death toll has moved to 945. According to the Ministry, the latest fatalities are that of an unvaccinated 56-year-old woman from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) who died on October 31, and two unvaccinated men, an 80year-old and a 50-year-old from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), who died on Sunday. Meanwhile, in its COVID19 dashboard, the Ministry recorded 77 new cases, taking the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 36,257. Presently, there are 12 patients who are admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 73 persons in institutional isolation, 2,541in home isolation and five in institutional isolation. To date, a total of 32,713 persons have recovered from the virus.
Contractor paid without verification of works... From page 3 the engineer nor the regional team could say who signed off on the project. Additionally, the team revealed that there were no documents to verify who really signed off on the project. To this end, Saywack reiterated that under his tenure, the correct procedure will be followed. At the interim, the REO noted that letters were written to the contractor, Mr. Kurt Beaton, informing him about the overpayments but he has not responded. “Based on my record, no other project was given to this contractor,” she said. As it relates to safeguarding against future overpayments, Regional Engineer Suchit told the committee that a better system is be-
ing used. “We implemented a [stricter] system of measured work. We had some training with the Superintendant of Works for the technical aspect of the projects… Also the works committee must sign off all aspects of projects by the region,” he said. Meanwhile, in a separate comment on the issue of overpayment, Mahipaul noted that the problem is one which has been recurring quite frequently. “This dates back to long before 2016…,” he said. Mahipaul noted that there were several projects in the regions where contractors were being paid in full before beginning works and then deliver incomplete and substandard work. “In some cases, contractors had been paid in full for works that never started,” the PAC member added.
Agri. Minister commissions $15M generator grid in Arakaka Village Persons residing in Arakaka Village, Region One (Barima-Waini) can now look forward to reliable and improved power supply with the addition of a $15 million generator grid seeking to boost the village economy and overall standard of living of residents. This is according to a release issued by the Agriculture Ministry which noted that on Wednesday last, while spearheading the government’s ongoing flood relief in Arakaka Village, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha commissioned the generator grid citing the government’s continued efforts to modernise the country. “This investment shows the government’s commitment to modernise our country. Although Region One is a far-flung region from Georgetown, the capital, the government has been making tremendous investments here...$15 million was allocated for that grid so the people in Arakaka can now have reliable and regular electricity. This will also help us to boost our agriculture sector too because we are looking at the feasibility of building agro-processing facilities in these parts of the country. With the
The generator that forms part of the grid system that was commissioned last Wednesday. establishment of such a system, agro-processing facilities will be able to operate effectively,” Minister Mustapha said. Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley stated that the grid has an output capacity of 250 Kilo-VoltAmperes (KVA) that will provide stable electricity to the entire village. “The development that is taking place on the coastland; no different is the development that is taking place here in the hinterland. Through the RDC’s budgetary allocation for 2020, we are seeing the
community of Arakaka benefitting from the establishment of an electricity grid and a gen. set. The grid is already up awaiting connections to the homes of each resident which we are foreseeing would be done before Christmas,” Ashley said. He explained that the regional officials are currently working to determine the number of hours per day that the generator will be operable. Arakaka is located along the left bank of the Barima River and is home to over 500 residents.
Health Ministry signs agreement with McMasters University for fellowship training in medicine
Failure to audit Exxon’s US$9.5B spending is criminal... From page 14 nationalists such as Christopher Ram and others, have been harping on the need to complete audits since the agreement has only a twoyear window to do so. “We gave ongoing warnings to the Government. The Government had a chance to use Payara as leverage to secure changes in audit timelines but chose not to.” To this end, he observed that the Yellowtail well approval is coming up and that can be used as leverage to secure an increase in time to complete audits. “Will the Government ask for more time to complete audits?” questioned Dr. Jailall, who suggests “in my view, the failure to complete audits is criminal and failure to do due diligence,” and that “there might be a cause of action for private criminal action to be filed against those responsible for ensuring the oil accounts are audited.” Government, he said, cannot say, “we lack capacity to
do audits or whatever else and think that’s a good excuse, and then adopt a drill baby drill stance.” He again questioned rhetorically, “If you are unprepared to manage oil, do you go faster or slow down?” Dr. Jailall used the opportunity to query also how many of the proposed 20,000 scholarships are aligned to building capacity for oil governance, oil accounting and auditing, environmental and general monitoring needs. According to Dr. Jailall, Guyana has sent all the wrong signals to the Oil operators “that, we are ill prepared to manage, monitor, and govern oil efficiently and effectively, that we lack the political skill and political will to do so, and that it will be a free ride for the oil companies to do whatever they want in Guyana, and nobody (Government nor Opposition) will stop them.” As such, the “oil companies can continue to flare gas and take indecent liberties
with the environment, local content can wait, they can use shell companies and operate without proper insurance for oil spills, and our Government and Opposition will not be bothered by that.” Referencing the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that allows for low royalty, low profit sharing, inadequate insurance for oil spills and accidents, paying the oil companies’ taxes, “and oil barons making extra money because our current leaders do not know how to audit the US$9 billion bills the oil companies gave us to pay.” He queried, “how can a country do business like that?” Moreover, he questioned in whose interest the administration is working, pointing out that “it’s the oil companies and our Government on one side, versus we, the people, on the other side…Our Government should not be the facilitators of the fleecing of Guyana, while our people struggle to make ends meet.”
Minister Frank Anthony is flanked by representatives of the McMaster University Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony made a recent trip to Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario, Canada to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the McMaster University. A release from the Ministry noted that the Health Minister was accompanied by Dr. Narendra Singh, Associate Professor of Paediatrics at the McMaster University and President of Guyana Help The Kids (GHTK) organisation, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) partnering with Guyana to address infant mortality. This MoU essentially sets in motion a partnership in which McMaster has agreed to facilitate the training of Guyanese physicians in various sub-specialities. In return, McMaster will continue to expand its global health and research initiatives with a major focus in
Guyana. The MoU was signed by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony; Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Paul O’Byrne and Karen Belaire, the Chair, Board of Directors, St. Joseph Health Systems, International Outreach Program. Also attending the signing of the MoU was Dr. Angelo Mikrogianakis, the Chair of Pediatrics at McMaster Children Hospital, and Bruce Squires, President, McMaster Children’s Hospital and VP Woman and Children’s Health. The Minister thanked several physicians who have been instrumental in partnering with IHSC to develop many of the postgraduate programmes in Guyana. These include: Dr. Ronald Barr, Dr. Brian Cameron, Dr. Andrea Hunter, Dr. April Tam, Dr. Karen Baley and Dr. Narendra Singh.
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Dr. Roach’s death a major setback for Cubans desirous of travelling to the US By Shervin Belgrave The brutal murder of Dr. Colin Roach is not only a tragic loss to his loved ones since it is also being considered a major setback for Cuban nationals desirous of entering the United States (US) as immigrants. Speaking with Kaieteur News, Wilfredo Allen, a wellknown immigration lawyer based in Miami, Florida, United States, said that the doctor’s demise is somewhat of “a bad news” for Cubans. According to Allen, Roach was a key doctor in Guyana who conducted medical examinations for Cubans travelling to America. The immigration lawyer explained that all immigrants must complete a medical examination before immigrating to the US. These examinations, he said, must be completed by a medical doctor registered and accepted by the USA Department of State. Allen said that Roach was one of only two doctors approved by the US to conduct these medical examinations in Guyana. Roach was well known to the Cubans and Allen related that he has never heard any
Close friend and prime suspect, Hilton Oliver Junior Franklin
Franklin’s accomplice, Lenrick Mosai Byass
complaints about the doctor’s medical reports and noted that all were readily accepted at the US Embassy. “The fact that only one doctor is available to conduct these required exams will be a serious delay to the immigrants…It may lead to longer stays in Guyana to complete this process,” Allen told this newspaper. Adding to the delay, he continued, is the COVID-19 vaccination with vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) that is now required for all travellers entering the US. Most Cubans, he said, are vaccinated with the Cuban COVID-19 vaccines, the
Aldaba and the Soberana 02, but these have not been approved by the WHO. The Cubans would have been depending on Roach to assist them to get the approved vaccines here in Guyana. Although the US Embassy can approve another doctor for the job, Allen says that it is a process that can take several months. Kaieteur News understands that Cubans have been travelling to Guyana since 2018 to obtain American visas. Visiting Guyana for this purpose reportedly started after the US had withdrawn most of its staff from its embassy in Cuba following the Havana
Govt. to spend over $32M for three outfalls in Berbice
File Photo: Outfalls, similar to this one that was rehabilitated at Sussex Street, will be constructed in Berbice to help prevent flooding. The Government of Guyana is expected to spend more than $32 million for the construction of three outfalls at Eversham, Joppa and Adventure, all located at Corentyne Berbice. According to a Ministry of Agriculture advertisement which states that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is inviting bids from suitably qualified and experienced bidders to undertake the projects. The three outfalls will be constructed for the November/December
2021, rainy season at the following locations, Eversham, Joppa and Adventure, Corentyne, Berbice. The estimated cost for the outfall at Adventure is $9,500,000, while it is estimated that the outfalls at Joppa and Eversham will cost $12,550,000 each to construct. This publication had reported in August last, that the government had planned to build two eight-door outfall sluices to mitigate flooding in Regions Three and Six.
Syndrome. The Havana Syndrome was described as unexplained medical symptoms that plagued foreign diplomats working in Cuba and the US considered it to be a military attack. Meanwhile, as it relates to the investigation into Roach’s brutal murder, Kaieteur News was told that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, has advised that the prime suspect and his accomplice be charged with murder. Both have confessed to the being involved in the gruesome crime and are expected to appear at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts today. The prime suspect, Hilton Oliver Junior Franklin, was a close friend to the slain doctor and had said that he bludgeoned Roach to death in self-defence.
Murdered, Dr. Colin Roach
Immigration lawyer, Alfredo Allen His accomplice, Lenrick Mosai Byass, confessed that he was present when Roach was murdered but noted that it was a planned robbery intended to raise money for Franklin to buy a car. Roach’s two employees, who were detained on the night his body was found, have also been released from
custody. One of them was implicated in the crime by Franklin but Byass said he did not play any part in Roach’s murder. Roach’s lifeless body was found lying in a pool of blood around 22:20hrs on Tuesday, November 2, last in his Duke Street Kingston, Georgetown office. He leaves to mourn his wife and three beautiful daughters. Roach was considered a valuable asset to the nation, particularly in the health sector.
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Kingston seawall to be developed into major tourist hub by next year - First Lady As Guyana observes Tourism Awareness Month, works are currently ongoing at the Kingston Seawall to develop that area into one of the city’s major tourist hubs. The redevelopment of this once thriving commercial and cultural centre forms part of the First Lady’s National Beautification Project. It is being executed in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works and corporate sponsors. What was intended to be a moderate facelift of the bandstand area has now become an elaborate plan to boost tourism in the capital city. “As we continue to welcome investors and tourists to our beautiful Guyana, it is very important for the physical appearance of the country to complement the investment climate,” First Lady, Arya Ali has said. Mrs. Ali shared that it is critical for Guyana to capitalise on the social and economic opportunities, which come from having an influx of foreigners. Equally important, she added, was ensuring that
Guyana protects its environmental credentials. “This is why I pursued this project and made it part of my National Beautification Project; because these kinds of initiatives must have e n v i r o n m e n t a l considerations and must fall within the sustainable development framework,” the First Lady noted. T h e N a t i o n a l Beautification Project aims to safeguard and enhance the scenic qualities of Guyana’s roadways, and urban and rural spaces while simultaneously creating a more environmentallyfriendly society. Presently, reinforced concrete drains are being built opposite the bandstand to expand the land space for the construction of food kiosks. Twenty-five units are expected to be erected in the coming months – 13 of which will be built by a corporate sponsor and the remaining 12 by the Ministry of Public Works. Not only would this help to create employment, but it would also assist in the regulation and monitoring of
An artist’s impression of part of the tarmac upon completion of the project.
The area (right) where the food kiosks will be constructed after completion of the reinforced concrete. drains. vending in and around the area. To eliminate the existing issue of flooding, slipper and subsurface drains are under construction at the bandstand periphery to improve drainage, while rehabilitative works will restore the bandstand to its pristine state. The recently included boardwalk, north of the bandstand, will be extended to the roundhouse behind the Pegasus Hotel, and the tarmac area will be fully resurfaced with asphalt. Accessing the tarmac area will no longer be a worry for persons in wheelchairs since a ramp is currently under
construction. Both design and funding for a sanitary block have been approved by a corporate sponsor. This will be situated adjacent to the food kiosks and a promenade will extend to the ‘I Love Guyana’ sign. The entire area will also benefit from improved security with the inclusion of a police outpost, patrol officers, and increased lighting. Thirty new garbage bins will also be installed around the area to improve solid waste management. A commitment has also been made by one of the country’s leading telecommunications
The recently built wheelchair ramp and slipper drain at the bandstand periphery.
company to provide free WiFi within the vicinity of the bandstand and tarmac. Prior to the completion of this project in the first quarter of next year, it is the First Lady’s intention to engage the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to have live cultural performances return to the bandstand. “I hope that upon completion of this very ambitious project, we value and take pride in what is ours. I want everyone to benefit from this undertaking, and they must do so conscious of the work that went into making it possible,” the First Lady said.
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Tuesday November 09, 2021
Australia to tour Pakistan for first time... (GETTY IMAGES)
Pakistan toured Australia in 2019, losing both the Test and T20 series.
Tuesday November 09, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You might feel a little under the weather today, but mentally you're flying high. Ideas could keep popping into your head, sending you into flights of fancy that excite your creativity.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Insights that well up from deep within you could put your imagination into overdrive. Perhaps ideas for essays, poems, paintings, or music flow into your mind in waves.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Today you might seek to expand your knowledge of the arts. You could decide to explore galleries, attend a concert or play, or look into the latest best sellers.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) News about the plight of the world's disadvantaged might have you toying with the idea of doing more than you are to make a difference.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you might have the desire to look into your genealogy. The Internet has made it possible for everyone to learn about their ancestors, and now is a great time for you to do it. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Practical, scientific, or spiritual ideas of all kinds are your life's blood. Today you might expand your knowledge. Much of what you learn may be based on technology such as telescopes or particle accelerators. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you might enlist the aid of friends to increase your computer skills. You may be interested in the artistic side of computers and want to experiment with computer graphics. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) A new romance could come your way. An old friend could suddenly seem like more to you, sending the relationship in an entirely new direction.
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SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Have you ever longed to be a movie star or participate in some way in the film industry? Today you might get your chance or at least learn some of the technical skills required. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You've been exerting yourself a little too much over the past few days and might feel a little listless. Nonetheless, your mind is still active, and you may seek stimulation through books. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You could have some very strange yet beautiful dreams today. They're trying to tell you something. You could also make an offthe-wall plan to increase your income that may or may not work. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today you may start to see your friends in a new light. Perhaps their accomplishments have aroused your admiration. A special person could seem more perfect than ever.
From page 22 October. “Cricket Australia is excited about the prospect of touring Pakistan next year for what will be a highly anticipated series in a country so incredibly passionate about the game and their national team,” said Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley.”Pakistan is a formidable opposition with an exceptionally talented team, as evidenced by their dynamic performances in the current ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. “We thank the PCB for their considerable efforts in planning for the tour and look forward to continuing to work closely over the coming months to finalise the necessary operations, logistics, security and Covid-19 protocols. “The safety and welfare of our players and staff remains our number one priority, and we will continue to work with the PCB and relevant agencies to ensure that appropriate and sufficient arrangements are put in place for the tour.”
Teams grouped for GSCL... From page 23 In the Over-50, the teams will play each other once in their respective groups, while in the Over-45 and Open divisions, the teams from group A will battle those in Group B once. According to President of the GSCL Inc. Ian John, over $1M in prizes will be won and the finals will be played at the National Stadium on Sunday. Gratitude to the Prime Minister Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, the National Covid19 Task Force and sponsors. It was disclosed that the organisers have been given approval for 40% capacity crowd during the finals and all covid-19 guidelines will be observed. John informed that fans entering any venue during the competition will have to show their vaccination cards. The free-entry tournament is being sponsored by Banks DIH, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Elegant Jewellery and Pawn Shop, It’s our life ARD Youtuber, Crown Mining, Dinar Trading, Dyna’s Embroidery, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Permaul’s Trading, Rajiv Ghandi University, P and P Insurance, Star Party Rentals, Trophy Stall, Lucky Star Boutique, Price Chopper Store and Associate Packers.
NBA roundup: Warriors... From page 21 tallied 12 points and 15 rebounds for the Pacers, who were 1-6 to open the season but have won three of their last four games. Tyrese Haliburton hit a 3pointer to pull Sacramento within 93-91 with 1:28 remaining but missed a 3-point attempt with 2.5 seconds left, and McConnell hit one of two free throws for the final margin. Thunder 99, Spurs 94 Mike Muscala scored 20 points, including a pair of clinching free throws with 3.6 seconds to play, as Oklahoma City outlasted visiting San Antonio for its second straight win. With the Thunder up 9794, the Spurs’ Lonnie Walker IV missed a wild 3-point attempt when up against the shot clock with 7.5 seconds left, and Muscala hit his two free throws to cap the Thunder’s third win of the season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 14 points and nine assists for the Thunder, with Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Luguentz Dort scoring 13 points each, and Darius Bazley getting 11 points and 11 rebounds. Cavaliers 126, Knicks 109 - Ricky Rubio had the most prolific game of his 11year career, draining eight 3pointers, scoring 37 points and adding 10 assists in a win
over host New York. The Cavaliers have won four in a row to move three games over .500 (7-4) for just the second time since LeBron James left for the Lakers following the 2017-18 season. The Knicks have lost three of four. Jarrett Allen had 18 points and 17 rebounds for the Cavaliers while Evan Mobley finished with 26 points and nine rebounds. Darius Garland added 16 points for Cleveland. Julius Randle led the Knicks with 19 points, while Derrick Rose had 17 points and Evan Fournier finished with 15 points. Clippers 120, Hornets 106 - Buoyed by the energetic play of swingman Terance Mann off the bench, Los Angeles rode a 22-0 run in the fourth quarter to outlast visiting Charlotte for its fourth straight victory. Mann finished with a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds in 34 minutes. Paul George led Los Angeles in scoring with 20 points and added nine rebounds and eight assists. Playing back home in front of family and friends, Southern California native LaMelo Ball impressed with 21 points (13 of those in the first quarter) to go with seven rebounds and three assists. Miles Bridges also scored 21 points for Charlotte.
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India hammer Namibia to bow out of World Cup in style ICC - India ended their World Cup on a high with a crushing nine-wicket win over Namibia in the final Super 12 game of the tournament. Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin did much of the damage with the ball after Virat Kohli had won the toss in his final match as T20I captain, with the pair taking three wickets apiece to restrict Namibia to 132/8. And half-centuries from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul helped India reach their target with 28 balls to spare to give departing Head Coach Ravi Shastri a winning send-off. Both teams knew there was no chance of reaching the semifinals of the World Cup, with the tournament’s final four already confirmed as Pakistan, England, New Zealand and Australia. But that didn’t prevent a high-quality game in Dubai, with India showing their quality against a Namibia side who have impressed throughout the past three weeks. Spin twins take control - Earlier, openers Stephan
Baard and Michael van Lingen had got Namibia off and running with an opening stand of 33, before van Lingen fell in the fifth over to Jasprit Bumrah. The introduction of Jadeja helped India take back control as the spinner took a wicket in each of his first two overs to remove first Baard for a run-a-ball 21 and then Craig Williams for a duck. And Ashwin kept the momentum going when he lured Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton into a risky cut that he edged straight to slip, with Namibia restricted to 51/4 at the midway point of the innings. Namibia struggle to get going - Captain Gerhard Erasmus and dangerman David Wiese looked to rebuild the innings through the middle overs, with Erasmus falling for a restrained 12 off 20 to Ashwin. And the Jadeja-Ashwin double act continued to tie Namibia down, with both picking up further wickets to keep the power-hitting middle order from doing any damage, Jadeja accounting for JJ Smit and Ashwin
brilliantly bowling Zane Green. The pair finished with combined figures of 6/36 off their eight overs. Bumrah returned at the death to account for Wiese just as he prepared to unleash, the allrounder falling for 26 off 25. But some big hits from Ruben Trumpelmann in the final over helped Namibia to a respectable 132/8 at the interval. India’s dominant reply - The Rahul and Rohit opening partnership crunched into the Namibia attack through the Powerplay, with Sharma dominating the strike and the scoring, racing to his halfcentury in just 31 balls. But Sharma’s stunning knock did come to an end in the penultimate ball of the tenth over when he topedged a catch off Jan Frylinck that was taken by the keeper. Yet Suryakumar Yadav, promoted to number three, simply kept the scoreboard ticking over with a classy 25* off 19. And Rahul followed in his opening partner’s footsteps by bringing up a 50 of his
own, his third of the tournament, reaching the landmark in just 35 balls before hitting the winning runs to finish unbeaten on 54. World Cup swansong India’s hammerings of Afghanistan, Scotland and n o w N a m i b i a w e r e n ’t enough to make amends for the early losses to Pakistan and New Zealand, as Virat Kohli’s tenure as skipper ended at the Super 12 stage. But the all-around quality of Monday’s display suggested that India’s T20 squad, who will be led by Rahul Dravid in place of the departing coach Shastri, will be among the favourites for the next World Cup in Australia in a year’s time. Joining India in Australia in 2022 will be Namibia, who showed good qualities again in Dubai, but ultimately falling short against one of the stronger outfits at the tournament. However the African nation’s World Cup was already a success following their progression from Round 1, which gave them the opportunity to face the best in the Super 12 as well
Ravindra Jadeja celebrates a wicket with Rohit Sharma © Getty Images as guaranteeing their qualification for the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. And, on the evidence of their showing in the UAE and Oman, the future is bright for Namibia’s T20I side. India 136 for 1 (Rohit 56, Rahul 54*) beat
Namibia 132 for 8 (Wiese 26, Jadeja 3-16, Ashwin 320) by nine wickets. The fixtures: Semifinal 1: England v New Zealand at Abu Dhabi, 10 November Semi-final 2: Pakistan v Australia at Dubai, 11 November
Kaieteur News
Tuesday November 09, 2021
Dottin hits career-best ton as WI start with big win CWI - A superb century by Deandara Dottin, and a brilliant allround performance from Hayley Matthews led West Indies Women to victory over Pakistan Women in the first One-Day International yesterday. Dottin set the tone with a well-made 132 off 146 balls as West Indies scored 253-8 off their 50 overs after being asked to bat first at the Karachi National Stadium. She hit 18 fours and two sixes and laid the platform for the challenging total. It was her second ODI ton, surpassing her previous best of 104 not out against Pakistan in the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup at Leicester. She added 119 for the third wicket with Matthews, who made 57 off 67 balls with eight boundaries. Close to the end of the innings Shemaine Campbelle marked her return to the international stage as she chipped in with 23 off 20 balls. Anam Amim was the best bowler
for Pakistan with 5-35 off 10 overs wickets – including the key wickets of Dottin, Matthews and Campbelle. Dottin was elated with her great performance and said she was especially pleased to bat deep into the innings. “The plan was to occupy the crease build a foundation for the team. I knew I had to bat at least 40 to 45 overs. When I got to the halfcentury I knew it was time to start fresh again and look to build for the team and just bat on.” In reply, Pakistan Women made 208-9 off their 50 overs. Matthews took 3-31 off 10 overs with her off-spin to lead the bowling. The early damage was done by Shakera Selman with the new ball as she took 2-35 off 10 overs. The two teams will return to the same venue on Thursday for the second ODI. First ball is 10am local time (1am Eastern Caribbean time, 12 midnight Jamaica time).
NBA roundup: Warriors beat Rockets to improve to 8-1 Reuters - Jordan Poole had a game-high 25 points and Stephen Curry 20 as the Golden State Warriors gradually pulled away from the visiting Houston Rockets in the second half for a 120107 victory Sunday night. Andrew Wiggins (16 points), Otto Porter Jr. (15) and Gary Payton II (10) also scored in double figures for Golden State, which won its fourth straight to improve its best-in-the-NBA record to 81. Jae’Sean Tate finished with 21 points and 10 rebounds for the Rockets, who fell for the second time in two days and have lost eight straight games. After putting up 69 points in the first half, the Warriors led just 83-80 after a Christian Wood dunk with 5:06 remaining in the third q u a r t e r. B u t N e m a n j a Bjelica nailed a pair of 3pointers and Payton chipped in with two hoops during a 15-0 flurry that broke the game open. Nets 116, Raptors 103 Kevin Durant had 31 points, seven rebounds and seven assists and visiting Brooklyn defeated Toronto. It was Durant’s 10th straight game with 20 or more points as the Nets won their fifth in a row, including the first two of a six-game road trip. James Harden added 28 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists for the Nets. Blake Griffin had 14 points and 11 rebounds, Patty Mills
Golden State Warriors guard Jordan Poole (3) shoots a layup against Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (0). Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports scored 13 points off the bench, and Bruce Brown contributed 12 points. Wizards 101, Bucks 94 Bradley Beal scored 30 points to lead host Washington past Milwaukee for the Wizards’ second straight win. Beal made 14 of 22 shots and added eight assists, while Kyle Kuzma and Montrezl Harrell each scored 15 points, with Harrell adding 10 rebounds. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 29 points and 18 rebounds. Grayson Allen added 19 points for the Bucks, who opened a fivegame road trip with their fifth loss in their past six games. Bobby Portis had 13 points and 13 rebounds. Magic 107, Jazz 100 Cole Anthony scored 24 of his season-high 33 points in the second half and Wendell Carter Jr. had a season-high 22 points to go along with 15 rebounds and six assists, helping Orlando past Utah for its first home win of the
season. Anthony hit two clutch jumpers in the final 90 seconds, and R.J. Hampton sank a 3-pointer with 21.5 seconds to go and the shot clock running down. Anthony made his only two free-throw attempts with 18.2 seconds left as Orlando ended a two-game losing streak. Franz Wagner contributed 10 points for Orlando, which improved to 1-4 at home. Mo Bamba added nine points, seven rebounds and four blocks, and Gary Harris and Hampton each scored eight points off the bench. Pacers 94, Kings 91 Caris LeVert scored a season-high 22 points and T.J. McConnell added 18 as Indiana won at Sacramento for its first road victory in six tries. Domantas Sabonis had 17 points and 10 rebounds, Chris Duarte added 15 points, and Myles Turner (Continued on page 19)
PAGE 25
Grenada, Curacao, stay perfect in CMU20Q Benjamin Etienne of Grenada #2 celebrates after scoring their first goal against Dominica.
D
ominican Republic – G r e n a d a , Curacao and Dominican Republic maintained their perfect records with victories on Sunday in 2022 Concacaf Men’s Under-20 Championship Qualifying in the Dominican Republic. Grenada 5 Dominica 2 Grenada re-started the action in Group A and pocketed all three points with a 5-2 win over Dominica. Benjamin Ettienne (8’, 59’) had a brace and was joined on the scoresheet by Deanroy
Phillip (31’), Divonte Joseph (45+3’) and Shermine Williams (79’). Dominica’s goals came from Felix Anselm (6’) and Adriel Lawrence (53’). Curacao 2 Sint Maarten 0 - Curacao also have six points through two games in Group A after posting a 2-0 victory over Sint Maarten. Sidney Kastaneer (14’) and Juruel Bernadina (40’) scored to keep Curacao on pace with Grenada in the group. Belize 0 Saint Lucia 0 In Group B, Saint Lucia
battled to a 0-0 draw with Belize to remain unbeaten in the CMU20Q. Saint Lucia now have four points, while Belize, who made their tournament debut on Sunday, have one point. Dominican Republic 2 Saint Martin 0 - Host nation Dominican Republic now have two wins after two games thanks to a 2-0 win against Saint Martin. Goals from Bryan More (18’) and Jason Joseph (40’) delivered the three points for the Dominican Republic.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 26
Tuesday November 09, 2021
CMU20Q
Captain Glasgow’s hat-trick leads 10-man Guyana to thumping 5-1 over US Virgin Islands On a ground where he made his senior international debut earlier this year, Guyana’s Under-20 Captain Omari Glasgow stamped his authority with hat-trick of goals to lead his national to a comfortable 5-1 win over the US Virgin Islands when Group D action continued yesterday in the 2022 Concacaf Men’s Under-20 Championship Qualifiers in the Dominican Republic. Promising a more attacking form of play, Head Coach Wayne Dover charges delivered despite being reduced to 10-men in the 20th minute when Perry Gaul was given marching orders. The USVI lads kept the rampaging ‘Golden Jaguars’ at bay for some time but they just could not do so after the 34th minute when Captain Glasgow rocked the back of the nets. Thereafter, there was steady progress for Guyanese as Glasgow doubled the advantage in the 41st minute before Darron Niles made it a 3-0 margin when he scored on the stroke of halftime. It was good reward for the lads who
Darron Niles
Omari Glasgow
Ravi Coats scored on debut for Guyana vs USVI, U20.
persevered and reaped the rewards. Ten minutes into the second half, the USVI were awarded a penalty which was
scored by Naqwan Henry in the 55th minute, the goal narrowed the advantage. But two minutes later, Captain Glasgow would restore the
three goal advantage when he completed a deserved hattrick to put his nation up, 4-1. The Technical staff brought in fresh legs to keep
Australia to tour Jones leads Pakistan for first Wellman to time in 24 years victory over BBCsport - Australia will tour Pakistan for the first time in 24 years in March and April 2022. The tour will include three Test matches, three one-day internationals and one T20 international, taking place in Karachi, Rawalpindi and Lahore. The announcement comes just days before the two countries meet in Dubai in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup. “I am delighted to welcome Australia to Pakistan,” said Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ramiz Raja. “From a personal point of view, it pleases me no end that we’ll be engaged in a three-Test match series. “Australia are one of the high-performing sides and them playing in our backyard for the first time after a gap of 24 years will be a special
treat for the fans. “Likewise, it will be a great opportunity for the Australia cricketers to not only play at our iconic venues but also feel and enjoy the respect, love and hospitality that this great country offers, something which most of their previous generation of cricketers missed out by playing offshore.” Australia last toured Pakistan in 1998, when current Australia head coach Justin Langer was part of the Test squad. News of the 2022 tour comes just two months after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a government “security alert”, before England withdrew their men’s and women’s teams from series in Pakistan that were due to take place in (Continued on page 19)
the momentum going for the lads from the ‘Land of Many Waters’. In the 54th minute, Keenan Harper made way for Nathaniel Pydana; in the 60th minute, Kehance Scott was replaced by Kyon Alphonso while Ravi Coates came in for Alex Davidson in the 76th minute. As the action ebbed and flowed both ways, Coates repaid his Head Coach and staff for the confidence reposed in him by scoring his debut goal at this level on an assist from his Captain, Glasgow in the 88th minute to make it 5-1 in favour of Guyana; it ended up being the final score with Guyana pocketing three points, moving to four now with their final group match against Nicaragua on Wednesday night from 19:00hrs. Dover complimented his charges for a well played game:”Today’s victory gives us an opportunity to come in the last game and compete and try and get a result to see how bets we can qualify for the championship next year. I am really happy that the players came out, fought a
good fight and get these three points with some goals also.” Captain Glasgow said the game was a great one for the nation. “We bounced back from the last game we drew against Cayman Islands, I think the boys came out and put out a fight. I just want to thank the fans and everybody who supported us and we are looking forward to a victory in the next game.” Debutant Ravi Coates expressed gratitude for being given eth opportunity to make his debut and for also scoring a goal which helped to propel his nation to victory. “I hope to win against Nicaragua, qualify and make our country proud. I would like to thanks the fans for coming out, I am very grateful.” Guyana’s starting X1 vs Turks and Caicos Islands: Joshua Naraine (Goalkeeper), Omari Glasgow (Captain), Devon Padmore, Jerome Harrigan, Alexander Davidson, Brandon Solomon, Kehance Scott, Darron Niles, Keenan Harper, Sealon Sue, Perry Gaul Jr.
Wellman Captain Wayne Jones accepts the winning prize from Abena Parker in the presence of organiser Seeraj Bhimsain.
Rockaway Legends
A
fine all-round performance by Captain Wayne Jones guided Wellman Masters a sixwicket win over Rockaway Legends when the teams collided in the Seeraj Bhimsain Birth Anniversary softball T20 fixture on Sunday. Rockaway Legends were given a solid start by Hamraj Pillay and Sean Gaskin, batting first at Lusignan. The pair added 70 for the opening stand with the former hitting four fours and one six before he was dismissed for 38 while Gaskin made 32 which contained three fours and one
six. Middle order batsman Jairam (only name) steadied the innings fairly with a fine 51. He struck three fours and four sixes while Dialall Latchman contributed 11 as Rockaway Legends managed 151-7. Sheldon Perch claimed 3-11 and Jones captured 3-22. Wellman lost Azeemul Haniff (01) early in the chase before Seeraj Bhimsain and
Lloyd Ruplall put on 33 for the second wicket. Bhimsain went for 17 while Ruplall made 19 as Rockaway Legends pegged back the scoring somewhat. However, Jones and Hardat Heeranandan stabilised the chase nicely. Heeranandan struck three sixes before he departed for 27. Jones and Nandram Samlall then took their team to victory with level-headed
batting. Jones stroked five fours and four sixes in an unbeaten 55 while Samlall made 21 not out with three fours and o n e s i x a s We l l m a n responded with 155-4 in 18.4 overs. Jairam took 2-13. Jones was named man-of-thematch. The match was sponsored by Trophy Stall and Mike’s Pharmacy.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday November 09, 2021
PAGE 27
Seven Berbice youth players- Minister benefit from BCB Vickram Bharrat Patron Education Trust Fund hands over $1.1M to BCB Minister Vickram Bharrat pose with the seven cricketers who received Educational Grant.
T
he Berbice Cricket Board ( B C B ) o n Saturday last continued its deliberate investment in the educational careers of junior players in the Ancient County. The Board, since the election of Hilbert Foster as President in 2018 has placed special emphasis on the promotion of education among its youths with hundreds receiving assistance to stay in school and complete their educational careers. The BCB during the hosting of a Social Skills Development seminar for youths in the New Amsterdam/Canje area
handed over seven Educational Grants under its 2021 Patron Educational Trust Fund. The Fund is supported by Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, who is the Honorary Patron of the BCB. The seven players who shared the combined grant of $100,000 are Aaron Craig, Ronaldo Gomes, Anthony Persaud, Dinesh Persaud, Aaron Seitaram, Shaquan Whyte and Daniel Victor. BCB President Hilbert Foster stated that he strongly believes that education is the key to a successful life and as such the Board has invested heavily in the promotion of education among youths playing the game since 2018.
He disclosed that since 2018, hundreds of youth cricketers have received assistance in form of grants, educational materials, uniforms, cycles and school bags among others. The BCB also created history when it became the first cricket board in Guyana to hand out an educational scholarship to the University of Guyana. Foster, who is also a Vice President of the Guyana Cricket Board and a Director of Cricket West Indies shared that close to thirty (30) Under-17 players would benefit under the Patron Fund during the month of November. The players would each receive a voucher that would
allow them to uplift educational materials from Metro Office Supplies. Speaking on why the BCB invests so heavily in education, Foster stated that an educated mind makes better all round cricketers and also avoids major embarrassment on the international stage. He reminded the youths that no can take away what they learn and most importantly, an educated mind allows you to think faster on your feet in a crisis. He hailed the outstanding work of Minister Bharrat in his capacity as Board Patron whilst expressing thanks to him for funding the Educational Grant initiative. Bharrat, in a well
Honorary Patron of the BCB, Minister Vickram Bharrat (left) hands over donation to Board Treasurer, Dr Cecil Beharry. received feature address spoke broadly on the importance of education and personal discipline. He shared that he was very impressed by the outstanding work of the BCB and he was fully committed to making sure that the County of Berbice produces cricketers who would excel on and off the cricket field. The Minister also handed over two cheques valued at $1.1 M to BCB Treasurer, Dr
Cecil Beharry for the Patron Fund. The funds would be used to provide the educational grants across the county and to also host four social skills developmental seminars in the four subassociations in Berbice. The Minister has also committed another million dollars to the fund for 2021, which would be used to assist the county eleven first division clubs with cricket balls for the packed upcoming season.
Rough Riders win Wiltshire Teams grouped for GSCL Inc. participation four-game dominoes tourney PM T20 Cup 5 - overseas confirmed
GSCL Inc. President Ian John (left) with representatives of some of the teams at the draw.
The victorious Rough Riders team with their prize.
R
ough Riders chalked up 48 games to win the final of the Mark Wiltshire four-game dominoes tournament which was contested on Sunday last at Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam. Spartans took the runner-up spot with 41 games followed by Top Shattas on 40. Sheldon Gomes made 10 and Trevor Smith scored nine games for the winners, while Leroy Edwards marked the maximum 12 games and Shawn Mc Kenzie nine for the
runner up team. Rough Riders pocketed a trophy and $155,000, Spartans $95,000 and Top Shattas $55,000. The competition was sponsored by Banks DIH and Wiltshire. Meanwhile, the Barbara Marshall Birth Anniversary competition is set to commence tomorrow at R & R Sports Club from 18:00hrs. Entrance fee is $15,000 and teams are asked to contact Wiltshire on 659 8672 or Marshall on 663 8280 for registration.
The Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. (GSCL) Prime Minister’s T20 Cup 5 is set to bowl off on Friday at venues in the city. The tournament is expected to be keenly contested with a number of overseas teams confirming their participation in the three-day event. The draw for the tournament, which will be played in three categories, took place yesterday at Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Seaforth Street. The
categories to be contested are t h e L e g e n d s O v e r- 5 0 , Masters Over-45 and Open. Eight teams will battle in the Over-50 category, six teams will contest the Over45 segment and six teams will face off in the Open Division. The teams have been divided into two groups in each category, and the top two teams from each group will go through to the semi finals. In the Over-50 category, Floodlights, Regal, Wellman and NY Hustlers are in group
A, while Orlando Legends, NYSCL Legends, Rockaway and Carpet Doctors are in group B. In the Over-45 segment, NY Doctors, Ariel Masters and Fisherman have been drawn in group A, while Success Masters, Essequibo and Regal Masters are in group B. In the Open segment, Speedboat, Name Brand and Regal comprised group A while group B consists Success, Airport and Ariel. (Continued on page 19)