Kaieteur News

- New York based lawyer warns

Govt. must look out for anti-competitive practices, abuse of legal loopholes by oil companies

W m u s t b e exploit legal loopholes, procurement schemes where arecertifiedtobeusedinone commended for its pursuit to undermine the spirit and t h e s t a n d a r d s o r

hile Guyana’s compliancewiththelaw employing methods that monopolies. Dr Williams LocalContent The lawyer said such ostracize Guyanese. He said said if there are only a small Legislation practices that may seek to this is done through varying number of companies that

particular business area such increase the involvement of intent of the legislation requirementsaresetinsucha as welding then that can Guyanese in the oil sector, which seeks to maximize the way that it benefits certain driveupcosts. New York-based Attorney- use of local goods and companies alone. On the Given Guyana’s current at-Law, Dr. Vivian Williams servicesintheoilsector. extreme end, such practices labour shortage, he is urging regulators to be I m p o r t a n t l y, D r. can even force companies to explained that there will also wary of companies that Williams said authorities close shop. As to the merits be a need for flexibility on would engage in various must ensure fool proof of the law, he said one has to what constitutes a Guyanese forms of anti competitive systemsareinplacetodetect be mindful that it does not company behaviour and creative when companies are c r e a t e p o c k e t s o f

GYSBI, SES Local Content Master Plans approved

Deputy General Manager of Guyana Shore Base Inc, Rabin Chandarpal, receives the Local Content Master Plan Approval from Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat.

Guyana Shore Base Inc. demonstrated, through their training institutions in (GYSBI) and its sister Master Plan submissions, G u y a

company, Sustainable th

Environmental Solutions fostering local content in internship opportunities; (SES), on Wednesday, their op

o

a

y:

received their Local Content prioritizing Guyanese requirements of the Act and Master PlanApprovals from nationals for employment; the Procurement and Bid t h e L o c a l C o n t e n t having policies aimed at Evaluation Guideline issued Secretariat, Ministry of non discrimination and by the Secretariat into their NaturalResources. equal treatment of Guyanese procurement strategy, The Master Plans is a nationals; implementing amongothers. Accordingto requirement under Guyana’s t r a i n i n g a n d o t h e r (Continued on page 21) Local Content law which programmes to build the was passed in Parliament in capacity of both their December 2021 The employees and the larger approval from the ministry Guyanese workforce; signifies that GYSBI and coordinating with industrial S E S h a v e b o t h and technical education

Guyana’s Local Content Legislation has three main criteria which a company must satisfy in order to q u a l i f y a s b e i n g “Guyanese.” It must first be incorporated under the Companies Act and be beneficially owned by Guyanese nationals who have 51 percent of the total issued shares of the company Secondly, with the best interest of the envelopes the entire country Guyanese nationals must country since complex and become a practice, a holdatleast75percentofthe piecesoflegislationopenthe culture. This aspect of the Executive and senior floodgates for abuse on the law also indicates the desire positions;andthirdly,atleast grounds of misinterpretation for equality in terms of 90 percent of the non and uncertainty “So economic offers,” expressed managerial staff must be simplicity is one of the Dr Williams. takenupbylocals. strengths of the law,” the In closing, Dr Williams

New York-based lawyer, Dr. Vivian Williams

Dr Williams said lawyersaid. said it is important for companies may not be able Furthermore, Dr societal actors to understand to reach such strict targets as Williams said the provisions that Guyana is still a new oil such; flexibility would be of the law which speak to producing State, as such, it required by the Local reporting and regulation of willmakemistakes. Content Secretariat. He said bidding is also praiseworthy He said, “All countries rigid adherence could lead, Hesaidthelawdemandsthat do. Even the great economic in some cases, to there being oil companies have an open powers of the world are just a few players operating bidding process It also guilty of this But the incertaincategoriesofwork. regulates the idea of sole important thing is how we

Dr Williams said it is s o u r c i n g a n d w h e n m a k e r o o m f o r imperative also that Guyana competitive bidding is improvement Would the i s m i n d f u l o f t h e utilized With so much powers that be make room implementation of the law economic promise floating for input and have the for if it is done effectively, it around, he said it is courage and confidence to can unleash significant imperative that regulations correct their missteps?”That benefitsforcitizens. on how contracts are being hesaidwillbeansweredwith

Speaking to other allocated “This sort of time, adding that the course noteworthy aspects of the openness must not only be Guyanatakeswillultimately law, Dr Williams said the restricted to oil companies decide its progression with simplicity of the law aligns but something that localcontent.

EDITORIAL

Integrity in high office

The esteemed jurists at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), the region’s highest legal tribunal decided that the circumstances necessitated the use of some scorching words of reprimand.

The judges that scalded the Hon. Attorney General of Guyana, Mr. Anil Nandlall, SC (AG), let him know where matters stood, and that what was done was unacceptable, especially when an agreement was finalized.

The words coming out from the AG’s office were suitably humble and contrite, at least on paper, and of which there were two objectives only: to soothe the ruffled feelings of the CCJ, and to make this storm pass as quickly as possible. There was still falling short, and woefully so.

In the flurry of quick, sharp words from the CCJ, one word in particular stood out.

The word is integrity, and that it must not be tampered with, or the respected court loses some of its growing luster, be brought into disrepute.

We at this newspaper could have advised the well-intended tribunes of the CCJ that word has lesser and lesser application in Guyana.

We recognise that the CCJ has its work to do, and that it does so cleanly and to its credit, but integrity is a lost cause, in a dead-on-arrival state in this country. Still, the thinking is that the AG’s office would be a leader in maintaining discipline, exercising cool and calm judgment, and representing what inspires the rest of Guyana.

Not so, not so; not with what breached the dam of restraint in a delightful dance of uncontrolled excitement, which highlights what really matters, is the foremost priority, the first order of business in this sorry State.

It is about elections, and as if nothing else exists. We understand that elections have transformed into the cure and curse of this country, as some would have it, but we are yet to experience what elections in this country have cured.

We appreciate also that the powers that elections grant make so many rich things possible, which explains the rapid overreaction coming out of the AG’s office that just couldn’t be controlled nor contained.

This is how Guyana is continually disgraced, made into the child for, which corrective rods have to be drawn and used. It is doubtful that learning would come, for there is always tomorrow, and more foolishness and recklessness to score political points.

What alarmed and agitated the CCJ was that it was taken advantage of, agreement was violated, and then used for purposes that the regional court did not find impressive at all, or amusing either. What occurred with the CCJ’s decision and the premature sharing of it was that it gives rise to interpretations that the work of the CCJ could be open to unwanted conjecture.

The CCJ simply could not afford to let the moment pass unaddressed, given the overheated cauldron that is regional politics, and arguably none more than that which dominates in Guyana. The AG and the luminaries in his office should have known better, and we think that they do. But again, this emphasizes how much elections signify in this country.

For its part, the CCJ moved to distance itself quickly from what Guyana’s AG office did. Stern reproof was quick in flowing from the angry jurists, which we believe is justified.

Now there is the specter of the CCJ taking further action to protect its coveted position. This can only be to the disadvantage of Guyana, which never seems to be equipped or capable of resolving its own illnesses, leading to its chronic overdependence on those outside of our shores to help us settle our differences.

As swiftly as the CCJ remonstrated Guyana, there was a similar swift reaction from the AG’s office. It was one that only made a bad situation worse: it was the slip of an administrator. There are times in a race, at the top, when the baton cannot and must not be passed.

When the Hon. Attorney General of Guyana had to demonstrate beyond a doubt that he was up to the challenge at hand, that he was ready to face the music, the best he could do was silently retreat, and let others carry the heavy load.

BLAME THE WEB MANAGER

DEAR EDITOR,

The PPP won the elections matter before the CCJ, and that is official. I can understand that the Hon. Attorney General (AG) got a tad carried away in his overflowing joy, but to make his frenzied reaction via social media a capital offense is taking things too far. As much as I think the AG belongs in a secure environment, there should be some u nderstanding of what is involved in things elections in this country.

International and that he be placed in chains? Although that particular scene does have the picturesque about it, plus some additional inspirations that are all overdue, I say let’s leave the big man alone.

Enough with the lecturing, scolding, and pontificating for dumb social media audiences, and the dumber who thrive on likes and whatever else they have for adrenalin surges in that barren wilderness. Where I do have a problem, though, is with what reportedly came out of the Solicitor General’s or AG’s office. There was an apology, what I interpret to be a profuse and appropriately contrite one, but it must be understood that nowadays apologies do not have any substance to them.

deviousness some more. The concern with the apology was that it was not a clean one, a thoroughly fulsome one, and for which I think the AG should be called to the carpet and then rolled in it. To lay the blame on some poor, wretched Facebook page administrator is really the pits, the lowest of the low.

But then again, I should know better, for look at who we are dealing with, either at the individual level or the political group that is sick to the core of its rotted soul.

I regret not managing my own expectations better. The reflexive in the PPP, be it government or party, is always to blame developments on the other guy or something else.

the angry gods at the CCJ. It would have been much more preferable for the Hon. AG to step forward himself and take it on his own chin. Quite frankly, I don’t think that the big chief is made of this kind of stuff, so I am wasting time. Meanwhile, Guyana meanders some more, but there is nothing better to expect when we get caught up in the excitements of filing petitions, petition adjudication, and social media celebration. Did somebody say we found oil, world class reserves of a superior grade of it?

They are merely for the record, and have the utility of manifesting humbling expression, while extending the show of hypocrisy and artful

Since the PNC hands look clean on this one, a pass is given. And now that COVID19 is on the wane, that also is off limits. So, I guess the little guy (administrator) was a suitable enough sacrifice for

Well, not by the fevered reactions of those who lead the way here in Guyana. Let’s move on people, to other things, the real things. Like how the foreigners rob this nation, while we are preoccupied and consumed with the usual foolishness, dead ends, and deadbeats.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

More attractive remuneration packages needed to stem attrition rate of air traffic controllers

He did jump the gun with the premature sharing of his ecstasy before the whole world, and though the chief legal officer of this land has been less of the law, and more of party politics, I recommend that he be given a break, and all this sanctimonious handwringing come to a halt. Indeed, he deserves more than a slap on the wrist, but what is the CCJ going to do? Order that he be detained at Piarco DEAR EDITOR

It is generally accepted that Air Traffic Control is one of the most stressful and demanding professions globally.

This group of professionals safely guide approximately 100,000 flights carrying over 4 billion passengers globally each day with three primary objectives; Safety, Efficiency, and an orderly Flow of Air Traffic.

ronment, Air Travel is regarded as the safest mode of transportation.

It is against this backdrop that on October 20, 1961, Jacob Wachtel, Chairman of the Israel Air Traffic Controllers’ Association together with representatives from 12 other countries formed the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers. Hence, the Federation’s Anniversary is celebrated on October 20 each year.

trollers rotate in shifts across several Air Traffic Control Units to safely guide more than 200 flights through Guyana’s Airspace on a daily basis.

With an emergent and rapidly expanding Offshore Oil and Gas sector, Air Traffic is expected to increase significantly over the next few years.

rate associated with our highly skilled professionals.

In this regard, the Guyana Public Service Union is proud of its history in collaborating with Air Traffic Controllers in pursuit of their interest and commits to its continued collaboration and where possible strengthening its resolve in pursuit of improved conditions of service and decent remuneration packages for Air Traffic Controllers.

In Guyana, a team of approximately 50 air traffic con-

Therefore, not only will there be a need for technological improvements and innovative procedures, but also more attractive remuneration packages to stem the attrition

Regards Guyana Public Service Union

It is therefore astonishing that despite such pressing demands in a complex enviDEAR EDITOR,

According to the press report, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister ‘rapped’ the Leader of the Opposition regarding disparaging comments about the status of youths in the society. In the former’s peroration, he is reported to have remarked as follows:

“Programmes such as the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) providing thousands of world class scholarships – from Certificate to PhD levels, the Board of Industrial Training TVET certification programme –aimed at up-skilling and empowering hundreds of youths in every administrative region; the dozens of Women’s Entrepreneurial initiatives introduced across the country by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, and the young professionals and low-income turnkey housing drives in all of our

regions among others”.

Once again, one is attracted to the persistent reference to the ambitious GOAL programme, previously much highlighted by, for example, the Minister of Education. It was in August 2021 that there was published the comprehensive 20-page Supplement announcing the availability of these scholarship awards to the following Universities:

International University of Applied Sciences, Germany

Jain University of India

UWI Open Campus

University of Southern Caribbean

Indira Gandhi National Open University

Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science

Structuralia Universidad Internacional Isabeli, Spain

UNICAF University and Partners (Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, UK)

Texila American Univer-

sity, Guyana

GOAL scholarships - how about a progress report?

Together the total of 108 programmes ranges from Certificates to Masters; and from two months to three years.

The respective periodicities are distributed as follows: 3 years – 22; 2 years – 23; then 1 year – 28; 6 months – 33; 4 months – 1; and 2 months –

1. So at this point in time, it should be reasonable to expect reports on the results of the 64 programmes which range from 2 months to 1 year.

The Universities to which awards of the shorter programme were reported to be made include the following:

Jain University of India – 36 programmes of 1-3 years

UWI Open Campus – 22 six monthprogrammes

Indira Gandhi National Open University – 25 programmes ranging from 6 months to 3 years. They include 120 awardees to a twomonth programme in Motor Cycle Service and Repair; 450

awards to the Certificate Course in Food and Nutrition.

In the circumstances, it seems an opportune time to more effectively incite youths wherever, to seize their chances, by emphasizing the successes achieved so far. Not only youths, but adults and communities at large deserve to know, for example, what job levels would have been achieved. There is the remarkable absence of the usual photographs of any group of ‘certificated’ achievers, an exercise that would obviously lend credibility to such a developmental project.

In the process, it would do no harm to widen invitation to opportunities in the TVET programme. In the final analysis however, one depletive nuance to the Administration’s communication exercise is that it utilized a junior representative to remonstrate, so to speak, the highest level of the opposition.

Regards E.B. John

Amaila Falls Project has benefits, will not be abandoned

DEAR EDITOR,

About three months ago, President Dr. Irfaan Ali rightfully “… made it clear that the Government will continue to pursue the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), even if it means it has to keep retendering “again and again”.” His direct words were quite forceful, saying that “… we are not going to abandon this project … If we have to go out again and again, we are going to, because we know the studies and everything, including the independent review by Norway, has point to this project as being good for Guyana, being good for the environment, and bringing greater

prosperity … So, this project will get underway.” So, I do not know when the AFHP will get cracking, but like President Ali, I am very much behind it.

I recall quite vividly, back in December 2016, when the Norway report stated that the AFHP was the “… only way for Govt to fulfil its LCDS commitment to UN.” This independent assessment of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), at that early time, did reveal that the only realistic path for Guyana’s moving towards an emissionfree electricity sector is by developing its hydropower potential and the fastest way forward is to maintain the

AFHP. Let me really emphasize that this kind of talk came from Norconsult, an engineering and design consultancy firm out of Norway, contracted by the Government of Norway, and therefore there was no kind of ‘political gamesmanship’ whatsoever.

Editor, I remind all of us that Hydropower is a clean, domestic, and renewable source of energy. It provides inexpensive electricity and produces no pollution. Unlike fossil fuels, hydropower does not destroy water during the production of electricity. Hydropower is the only renewable source of energy that can replace fossil fuels’ electricity production while satisfy-

ing growing energy needs. I further inform readers that because hydropower plants can generate power to the grid immediately, they provide essential backup power during major electricity outages or disruptions.

Hydropower provides benefits beyond electricity generation by providing flood control, irrigation support, and clean drinking water. It is plus and more plusses when it comes locally to the AFHP.

A second reminder is that the high cost for electricity generation indeed has a negative impact on Guyana and the rest of the region too in terms of economic and social devel-

The victim should pursue the matter, and Ossie Rodgers returned for trial

DEAR EDITOR,

There is a CCTV video showing talk show host Ossie Rodgers physically assaulting a Bath Settlement woman. It was a despicable act, wherein Rodgers is shown repeatedly slapping the woman.

Now, the next logical thing to happen is for the general public to come out in stern condemnation of Rodgers and his violent attack on the woman, but what we see taking place is an attack on the Government of Guyana. As one would want to ask the question, did the Government of Guyana send Rodgers to commit the act? Is the Government in any way to be blamed for Rodgers’ actions? If the answer is ‘no’, then why is this inordinate attack on The Government?

Well, for starters, one can envision the strange turn of events where victim and sympathizers are at odds with the government. The unjustified attack is due to the fact that Ossie Rodgers is a talk show host who has enlisted some

PPP/C members on his shows, so we can see the connection here, but what does that have to do with the Government coming in for blame for Rodgers’ disorderly conduct? And the answer is none whatsoever.

However, what the party can do is distance itself from Rodgers’ actions and issue a statement condemning the incident, but playing judge jury and executioner, this is not a matter for the Government. Let me say to all and sundry, this is a legal matter or a matter for the court, which the victim in question needs to do and stop her media appearances. She needs to stop talking and take out a lawsuit against Rodgers; she does not have to wait for the conclusion of police investigations, but hurriedly file a case against him. This is a legal matter not a political issue. If those who are interviewing her are worth their salt, then they should be at a lawyer assisting her in filing a strong case against Rodgers. But this is the sorry state of affairs in

Guyana where straightforward matters like this take on political meaning.

But far more important is the fact that these PNC guys, Rodgers was a strong supporter of the PNC - must realize that whenever they come across that political divide, the skeletons they had locked away in their cupboards would definitely follow them, sometimes with embarrassing consequences, the Bath Settlement incident is a case in point! The fact is, that woman never physically threw a punch at him, but her words were lethal enough to elicit a violent response from Rodgers.

We are all familiar with the thug-like behaviour of this individual in a prior incident

involving a young woman, and I am certain that it would have been a remark made of his ‘strange social engagements’ which caused Rodgers to rile up to the point of violently attacking the woman. But like we say in Creole, “the woman seh and in turn, he should seh back,” but to put his hands on her is a definite no no! This vicious and lawless behaviour of his cannot be tolerated, ever!

It also means that Rodgers leaving for his home abroad does not preclude him from prosecution either, that lady needs to go file a lawsuit immediately! The cameras are there to bear her out, let him be punished for his actions. The crime was committed here and as such, Rodgers will have to return here for trial.

Respectfully submitted Neil Adams

opment.

The cost factor affects negatively import bills, worsens terms of trade, erodes competitiveness, and stymies investment by the business community.

Then at the personal level, high electricity cost affects economically-disadvantaged people, who spend a greater share of their disposable income on energy. Need I say more?

As of now, China Railway First Group (CRFG) indicated a while back that it is unable to execute the project in keeping with the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model. This means that AFHP is being delayed and may even be retendered, as CRFG, the firm that won the contract, is having difficulties in meeting the contract obligations and wants the financing model changed.

CRFG wants to enter into an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract with the Government.

However, thus far, Government is not in agreement with any attempt to change the basis of the tender that is already out.

The bottom line is that if China Railway cannot get the contract done under the BOOT model, then the contract would have to be scrapped and retendered.

This I do know, that irrespective of the logistics and elapsing of time, the AFHP, one of the promises made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic in its manifesto, will be realised.

My final word is that we need to be patient but hopeful, as when completed, the AFHP is expected to deliver a steady source of clean, renewable energy that is affordable and reliable, and is envisioned to meet approximately 90 per cent of Guyana’s domestic energy needs, while removing dependency on fossil fuels.

Yours truly, H. Singh

Parika/Hyde Park residents appealing to the President to intervene and provide road relief

DEAR EDITOR,

This is a direct appeal for President Irfaan Ali to intervene in the current road works taking place at the main Parika to Hubu road.

For some months now, repair works have commenced on the road but to date one is left in disbelief to see the level of poor work being done.

In some areas, the workers are digging up the road and leaving it like that for a very long time. The contrac-

tor seems to be in no hurry to finish the work and some parts of the road are in a poorer state than when he first started.

For years now, road users, especially motorists, have been complaining of how frustrated they are at the road’s condition. Many persons had complained that their vehicles were badly damaged, while navigating huge potholes.

Pedestrians were also forced to walk in mud and huge potholes to avoid the oncoming traffic. And when it was announced that road repairs will commence, we all felt some relief.

However, we are dissatis-

fied with the manner in which the work is being done and would like to register our concerns with the hope that the President would intervene.

The contractor and engineer should be called in and asked for an update as to when the project will complete. I should mention that this a farming community and the farmers in this area contribute significantly to feeding the nation.

There are also many loggers and sawmills in this area who contribute to the housing boom in the country. Many children also use this road daily to get to and from school.

Mr. President, the political

representation in this region is very poor. No one seems to care despite several complaints by residents of the situation regarding the road, flooding of communities, the deplorable market condition and many other concerns.Mr. President, we believe that you mean well for Guyana. Your proactive approach to running the country by meeting with the people on the ground is very encouraging.

We understand that you may not be fully aware of what is happening in every community.

On behalf of all of the residents, I am therefore bringing this matter to your attention, with the hope that you would intervene and get a better understanding of the problems we are facing.

Yours truly, Concerned residents of Parika/Hyde Park

More workers complaints on ill-treatment in oil and gas sector

DEAR EDITOR, Once again, my fellow workers and I are complaining about the ill-treatment we are facing while working at Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services Inc.

Based on our last complaint concerning the Trinidadians getting betterment treatment, and also for not paying over our long overdue NIS and PAYE contributions nothing has changed. I recently checked with NIS to make sure my contributions were current, and was told nothing was paid over from since JANUARY. This is absurd.

If I’m to get into an accident at work or elsewhere, how am I to claim for my medical bills or have any support? We are already in October. The year will come to an end and nothing.

Why deduct taxes and not pay it over. Where is the money? What are they doing

to Guyanese? I have a small business, and I have tried for months to get compliance for it, and can’t because we haven’t even submitted PAYE contributions. From how long I wasn’t told but come on.

Those who are always preaching about and for their rights on everything should have been doing the right thing.

Some of us were switched to work as contractors and after months have (not) been paid our severance.

When we asked about anything regarding the severance, NIS and PAYE, the accountant would always not know anything, but send us to the directors.

The chiefs never seem to be interested in dealingwith us, while outsider(s) would have us waiting and waiting for just a few minutes of his time. And would always get the same response that it will get sorted.

We made complaints to the Labour Ministry more than once. This is the third time we complained about the same to news outlets.

We are asking to kindly have our story out there to make it known and help us get the justice we need as soon as possible. We have families also. And this is fraudulent.

Regards, Concerned Staff

When will Guyana ever learn?

Again, Guyana is poised to get the wrong end of the stick.

From all indications, the man who would be responsible for this is the same leader who used those words.

President Ali was the one who spoke of the ‘wrong end of the stick’ in relation to the 2016 oil deal.

Now, it looks like we are going to get another stick and the wrong end of it, It is in the pending giveaway of our rich oil blocks to the UK almost for nothing.

At least, Guyanese will get something for their govt-to-govt oil blocks dealings: visa-free travel to the UK.

Member of Parliament, David Patterson

Harbour bridge $1B repair bill for parliamentary scrutiny

Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill

Former Minister of (GUYOIL) that crashed into Public Infrastructure, David the floating structure. While Patterson has submitted a lighttrafficwasallowedover series of questions to the bridge, Edghill in an government regarding update to the press on $1billionpricetagforrepairs October 13 pointed out that to the Demerara Harbour even though over $1 billion Bridge(DHB). was spent to date, the works Public Works Minister, werenotyetcompleted.

JuanEdghillhadsaidthatthe According to him, governmenthadspent$1Bin “ while everybody is three days to repair the saying that traffic is flowing bridge, which was damaged and moving, they are still when a Panamanian vessel working miracles below slammed into it on October (conducting repair works 8,2022. underneath the bridge),

Patterson told this changing out pontoons and newspaper that he has doing all kinds of things submitted the questions to while still facilitating the National Assembly movement of people and seeking answers on the sum goods to ensure that expendedby thegovernment commerce is moving…It’s to facilitate the emergency nowherenearfinish.” works. Specifically, Meanwhileasitrelatesto Patterson has asked that costoftherepairsconducted, subject Minister, Edghill Edghill said that bill is “one provide the National billiondollarsandcounting”.

Assembly with the list of He iterated, however, that contractors that operated on owners of the vessel will the structure during the three have to foot the costs. So far, days, as well as the contract Mr GlennLall,thepublisher sums and scope of works for of this newspaper and an therespectivecompanies. advocate for transparency

In a brief comment, the and good governance said former Minister reasoned, that the administration must “Like the rest of the nation, I show how it expended the amconcernedaboutthesums whopping sum to put the of monies claimed to be bridge back into operation expended on these repairs over a mere three days. He overathree-day-period.” told his viewers and listeners

Moreover, he pointed of the Glenn Lall Show last out, “All the materials to Friday evening that, “The effect these repairs were government say them spend sourcedlocally,meaningthat over $1 billion to repair it, they were readily available, that is US$5 million. When I no special international heard that figure, I had to charters of materials and leave my office and drive equipment were required - over to the bridge to see if despite this, the Minister is them replaced the damaged reporting that they extended steelplateswithgoldplates.” over$330Mperday.” The newspaper publisher

Previously, Patterson continued, “how can anyone told this newspaper he justify spending $1 billion believesthe amountreported Guyana dollars in three to conduct the repairs was days? What on God’s earth “extremely high”. The DHB you can buy for that $1 was closed off to vehicular billion? What work, what traffic for a total of three machines, what welding days, following the incident could have cost $1 billion in during the wee hours of the three days?” He was keen to morningonOctober8.Itwas note that the astronomical finally reopened to light sumthatwasusedupinthree vehicular traffic on the days is equivalent to a seven evening of October 10, after percentsalaryincreaseforan the major repair works were entire year for all public conducted. servants in the country but

It was a Panamanian- “thatisthekindofmoneythe flagged oil tanker, MV government wants us to ‘Tradewinds Passion’, filled believetheyspenttopatchup with fuel for the Guyana Oil the bridge in three days,” the C o m p a n y L i m i t e d businessmanexplained.

- MP, others concerned about sums claimed to have been spent

The PNCR will swallow its own vomit

The Opposition has boxed itself, as expected, into a difficult corner.

By holding on to the discredited narrative about phantom and migrant voting and a bloated list, it has been pushed into a position in which it cannot compete in the forthcoming local government elections.

Having raised a maelstrom of concerns over the Voters List, the Opposition would be unable to hold a straight face were it to enter local government elections with a List more or less extracted on the same basis as the one extracted for the elections of 2nd March 2020.

The Opposition had adopted all manner of manoeuvres to try to put local government elections on hold.

It has succeeded in pushing the date back to almost the end of the first quarter of 2023.

But the government is not in a mood to entertain the silliness of the Opposition.

It is ready for these elections and from all accounts has already begun to solicit and receive campaigning financing.

Judging from the outreaches of the government, it is also clear that the government is in full campaign mode. The government is increasing its popularity in PNCR constituencies even though this may not always translate into votes.

While the government is busy campaigning, the Opposition is making excuses and attempting delaying tactics. And this does not only relate to the corner into which it has boxed itself.

The Opposition, APNU+AFC, is also simply not going to be able to mobi-

lize the financial resources and the candidates for the forthcoming local government polls.

The financers of the APNU+AFC are going to be wary about injecting funds into a Coalition that is not likely to be together after December and is not likely ever again to be able to win a general and regional elections.

The PNCR, the main partner in the APNU+AFC, is now a divided house.

The party is splitting at the seams and driven by factionalism. It lacks a unifying leader or force.

Opposition to the PPPC is simply not going to bring the factions together, not for local government polls.

The AFC which did poorly in the 2018 local government elections is weakened.

It is not likely to muster the resources to compete by itself in the 2023 local government polls and is has already signaled the possibility of exiting the Coalition at the end of this year.

Both the PNCR and the AFC are in transition. They are not likely to be ready for local government elections and many potential candidates will shy away from both entities given what took place with the 2020 general and regional elections.

As such, the APNU and the AFC are expected to suffer a mauling at the forthcoming local government elections.

They know this and this may be one reason why they may be reluctant to contest the polls and have a repeat of what happened in 2018 when the PPPC swept 60% of the total votes cast.

The turnout at local government elections, however,

Dem boys seh...

tends to be very low. And this is one of the reasons why the List should not be a problem. The voter turnout is usually less than 40%. The voter turnout in not likely to get better in next years local government polls given the attempted rigging of the general and regional elections of 2020. The turnout may be even lower th an in 2018 given that this is not a highstakes election and the results are more or less predictable. Local government polls attract less controversy. The results are usually known and published by midnight. The dilemma which faces the APNU and the AFC is that should they not compete, then the PPPC will sweep and dominate all the neighbourhood democratic councils and the municipalities.

The APNU and the AFC may be weary of the PPP seizing control of the Linden, Mahdia, Bartica, Georgetown and New Amsterdam municipalities all of which are traditional strongholds of the PNCR.

The PPPC on the other hand, regardless of whether the APNU and the AFC, participates in virtually assured to winning Corriverton, Rose Hall Town, Anna Regina, Mabaruma and Lethem.

The PPPC is also likely to make inroads into constituencies long considered safe bets for the Opposition.

The PPPC created an upset in the 2018 local government elections when it picked up 25% of the total votes cast in Georgetown, showing the dangers which can present itself to the APNU and the AFC by a low turnout. It won the most votes

Buckingham Palace here we come!

Everybody talking about de visa- free travel to de UK. Is about time. All dem country in de Caribbean expect Jamaica and Haiti can go to de UK without visa. So wah bin happen to we? Goat bite we?

Some people done start to mek travel plans. Dem pulling out dem piggy bank and starting to count to see if dem can mek de passage.

Some of dem nah gat a cent to dem name but dem done talking about going to see de London Bridge, Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Square. Dem

boys hear men talking about going to watch Test cricket at Lords. Some of dem done to call dem airlines. But when dem hear de price fuh a return ticket, it is like having to qualify for a visa.. If dem can’t afford de ticket, den visa or visa-free travel, it don’t matter. Dem can’t go. Some people vex though dat de announcement come so late.

One lady talk if it did come a few weeks ago, she would have been able to guh to de Queen’s funeral and might have seen Megan.

But dem airlines happy. Is not only British Airways smil-

ing. Caribbean Airlines did planning direct flights from next year. Now dem gan be sure to get more Guyanese going seeing dat no visa is required. De government hit a six with de visa-free thing. But like de hosting of de CPL finals for 3 years, dem nah tell we yet what dis visathing cost de country. Dem boys think that de government had to give something in return for the visa-free treatment. De Waterfall paper boss man feel he know is what and he gan talk about it tonight. One he Show Talk half, Leff half.

in Constituency 2 North, South and Central Kitty, and Subryanville; Constituency 3 Bel Air Gardens, Bel Air Springs, Prashad Nagar and North-East and North-West Campbellville; and Constitu-

ency 6 North, Central and South Cummings Lodge, and Pattensen/ Turkeyen South.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not this newspaper)

The police: Complete class bias in a banana republic

I told Jimmaul Baggot, political theorists but parapets. The edict was really? exceeded the legal the chairman of the especially journalists to issued the Friday to go into This will be one of the limit then I would BV/Triump NDC last include a system where effect the Monday. I most asinine exercises the not have taken it Monday on the Gildarie- because the rich could do responded with a column on Guyana Police Force would because in a banana Freddie Kissoon Show that I anything they want, the the issue the very Monday, have ever undertaken in its republic, anything traffic. I look at Guyanese asconsider over 55 years of society becomes corrugated (June 27, 2022), titled; “I’m history The dimension of goes so why pick on they go home from work orsocialactivismasafailure. and any cruel or comical act old now; don’t want stupidity will be so me. You want to see how arriveontheseawall.ItoldMr Baggotthatmy becomesthenorm.Anything anotherconfrontationwith pyrotechnical that the police stupid the police operation is I say with no hesitation,p e r m a n e n t p s y c h i c goes in a banana republic. MinisterEdghill.” should not do it because in then leave reading this about 80 percent of thedestruction lies in bringing There are no mores, norms, The exercise never took doingit,thepolicewillprove column and look out of your vehicles I look at eachbackmytalentedwifetolive regulations, values, social place. It died in stillbirth. to the world Guyana is a window You will see afternoon, exceeds the legalin Guyana in 1984. I will say guidelines. The society is You don’t have to study bananarepublic. hundreds of vehicle tint limit. All vehicles thatmoreonthefailureofmylife just a mashed up system sociologytoknowwhythere Which tinted windows windows that are so heavilyare over 20 million dollarsin my birthday column where people with moneyed w a s n o “ O p e r a t i o n the police are targeting? Not tinted that they are darker owned by moneyed peoplewhich is not far from now power are layers above the E n c u m b r a n c e ” windows in general in than the colour of Hades in whether business folks orWhen you see what takes restofsociety Commonsense can tell you Guyana. Surely not! The ancient Greek mythology professionals have illegalplace in this country, it is The rest of society just why More moneyed people police are going after Those vehicles will not be tints. The police force willirresistible in describing allows them to do what they than the wash-bay boys had minibuses, hire cars, small touched because they are harass the ordinary driverGuyanaasabananarepublic. want I will offer vivid encumbrancesontheparapet income people like the owned by people that the today because Guyana is aIf you study comparative evidence of moneyed power and since they are the canter truck owners and low policewillnotstop. bananarepublic.politics and political theory in a banana republic named untouchables, the ministry, income earners who have a I sit on the Eve Leary then, the description of Guyana in my birthday the City Council and the familysizecar seawall at the bandstand Guyana being a banana column. This column here police could not touch their I have a car whose every afternoon with my republic stares you in the offers a snippet of what goes things on the parapet.This is windows are in accordance dog.Whilemypetburiesher face. in the banana republic of what is meant by a banana with the tint but if it had headinthegrass,Ilookatthe

One of the misleading Guyana and how the police republic. thingsaboutthedefinitionof arelittleboysandgirlsinthe So we come to one banana republic is that the employ of the plantocracy snippet of life in a banana original definition has been The way the rich oligarchs republic,whileyouawaitmy expanded but people still treat the police in a banana birthday column (I was born define it wrongly It was republic is to ignore them or on December 30; I’m derived from the oligarchic dictatetothem. Capricorn, the goat). The system in Central America Remember the Minister police announced this week where the ruler is a pawn in of Public Infrastructure they are clamping down on thehandsoftheplantocracy issued a no nonsense heavily tinted vehicle

The term has been warningtocitizenswhohave windows.Really!Isayagain widened since the 1960s by encumbrances on public with uncontrolled decibels;

(The views expressed in this article are those of the w r i t e r a n d n o t t h i s newspaper)

Drainage repairs at Bonasika estimated to cost $104M

Drainage works at

production, the minister had Bonasika, Essequibo River, said that the most important Region Three are estimated thingthattheyneedisproper to cost the country some drainagefortheirfarms.This $104M. was reportedly determined

This is according to an after a team from the advertisement published in ministry had reportedly the daily newspapers visitedtheareaafewmonths inviting contractors to prior to the outreach and submit bids for the drainage conducted assessment. The works. The works are being proposed scope of work for undertaken by the Ministry the rehabilitation of the of Agriculture under the drainage systems were National Drainage and estimated to cost come IrrigationAuthority(NDIA).

$120M,moniesthatministry The drainage repairs are for had not set aside in its 2022 eight different areas in budget. B o n a s i k a a n d t h e

“Ihaveareporthere.The government engineer has most important things you estimated that it will cost boardroomoftheMinistryof need, based on what is here some $12.9M to rehabilitate Agriculture on Regent and in the report, are proper each of the eight drainage V l i s s e n g e n R o a d drainage for your farms and systems. Georgetown. to have the bushes cleared.

Basedontheinformation Talks about drainage The entire programme will i n t h e n e w s p a p e r works on the island had first cost about $120 million. We advertisement, the eight commencedbackinJulythis did not budget for those drainage systems to be year during a government works this year but because rehabilitated on the island outreach held there and of the importance of are located at Mahendra spearheaded by the agriculture and the fact that Nauth Gaya to Lakmattie Agriculture Minister, we want to ensure you have Bhagwandin Area, Lower Zulfikar Mustapha the necessary infrastructure Bonasika, Leon Evans to Mustapha had gone there to to ramp up your production, Nazmool Ghanie area, encourage farmers on the we will put systems in place Yassin Ghanie to Rajkumar island to cultivate more root to start those works”, Ramcharran area, Tarachand crops because they are high Zulfikar had told the farmer Sugrim to Ramlakahan area, ondemand. duringtheoutreach.

Basil Dharmjeet to Parmand He had told the farmers The estimated $104M Changa area,Astraf Hussain that government wants to drainage works at Bonasika to Ramdeo Lochan area, work with them to produce is in addition to another Alicia Williams to Timothy such crops because it wants estimated$90Mforthesame Singh area, and Satyanand to continue efforts with works at Bartica Region Ramkissoon to Naresh CARICOM, to reduce the Seven. Bids for the Bartica Kunjebeharryarea.

regional food import bill by Drainage project will also be Bids for this project will 25%bytheyear2025. opened on Tuesday October be opened on Tuesday In order to ensure that 25, 2022 at the Ministry of October 25, 2022 in the farmers can ramp crop AgricultureBoardroom.

Frederick Kissoon

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha

Berbice Hindu Society donates food hampers to vulnerable families

The Berbice Hindu Society of the Sri related that the initiative was the brainchild Krishna Mandir over the weekend held its of his Guru, Swargavasi Dr Prema annual “Diwali Seva” during which it Panduranga of India. “Guruji said that donated some 350 grocery hampers to the “poverty is a reality, and the antidote is familiesinneed. “seva,” selfless service.” Anyone going to The hampers were handed out to single bed without a meal is a tragedy, and we need parents, the elderly and other poor families to reach out to the deserving, especially in Berbice, Region Six. Pandit Rajin during this Diwali season”, explained the Balgobind who heads the organisation, pandit.

Cop dies days after bike collides with car

police rank severe head injuries and was p o p u l a r l y rushed to the Georgetown

Aknown for his Public Hospital Corporation funny Tiktok videos and (GPHC) where he was Facebook posts died five admitted as a patient of the days after his motorcycle HighDependencyUnit. crashed into a car at Enmore, Five days later on EastCoastDemerara(ECD). Wednesday, he succumbed

The policeman has been to his injuries around identified as Constable 06:30hrs. RogerBowen. K a i e t e u r N e w s

The accident occurred understandsthatthedriverof on October 14 last while, the the car he collided with was policeman was heading arrested but released on home. station bail pending an

According to statement investigation Many have issued by the Guyana Police since expressed shock at his Force, Bowen sustained suddendemise.

Killed in a road accident, Constable Roger Bowen

CCJ slams Nandlall again for leaking confidential information

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has issued an official statement expressing disappointment in the actions of Attorney General, Anil Nandlall SC for his release of confidential information in relation to the electionpetitionmatter

In the statement, the Trinidad based regional Court noted that like some other Apex courts, it has a practice of sending advance copies of its judgments to all the lawyers representing the parties to a case. Typically, the CCJ explained that these advance copies are provided to each counsel within 24 hours of the formal issuance ofthejudgment.

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, SC.

The intent, the court noted is to give the lawyers an opportunity not to w a s “ e x t r e m e l y 19 October), the presiding relitigate the dispute but to disappointed” to learn that, judge, Justice Jacob Wit, comment on any perceived in a case in which the drew the attention of errorsinthedraft.

Attorney General of Guyana Counsel for the Attorney

“The advance copies are was a party, on the Attorney General to the obvious c l e a r l y m a r k e d General’s Facebook account breach Counsel readily “Confidential”,andcounsels there was published, before a c k n o w l e d g e d t h e arewarnedtotreatwiththem the formal delivery of the unauthorised Facebook post in the strictest confidence judgment, the result of the and issued on behalf of his pending the delivery of the litigation. client, a full and unqualified judgment,” the CCJ said in OnTuesday hours before apology therelease. the decision on the Guyana The Court had also been

“The Caribbean Court of election petition was advised that the Attorney Justice prides itself on the delivered by the CCJ, it was General, Anil Nandlall, has measures it takes to enhance publicised on the Facebook alsoissuedanapologyonhis its integrity, impartiality and Page of the Attorney Facebook page for what was independence. The judges General. apparently a reckless error and staff of the Court will The post disclosed that onthepartofastaffer continue to work diligently, the “CCJ upholds our In the statement, the incessantly, to build the submissions in Petition Court noted that, “The public’s trust and confidence No 99: Court of Appeal premature, unauthorised intheCourt. decision reversed the disclosure of the result of the

In an effort to ensure that people won again ” litigation is inexcusable. It the highest standards of Followingthedeliveryofthe betrays the confidence of the confidentiality and probity ruling, the CCJ dealt Courtand,giventhefactthat are maintained, the Court condignly with the Attorney it emanated from the willcontinuouslykeepunder General for publicising the Facebook account of the review, its policy of sending information from the ruling person holding the office of advanced copies of its beforeitsofficialrelease. the Attorney General, it judgments to attorneys,” the At the formal sitting to serves to bring the entire statement. pronounce the judgment the administration of justice into

As such, the Court said it following day (Wednesday disrepute.”

Pandit Rajin Balgobin posing for a photo during the hamper distribution

Opposition calls for comprehensive electoral reform

- as govt. set to roll out national consultations next week

The A Partnership for

process. In particular, it said

i n c l u d e : a m u l t i

According to the

the ministry said in a National Unity + Alliance the key elements must statement. For Change (APNU+AFC)

Coalition has reiterated its s t a k e h o l d e r / e x p e r t ministry, headed by Gail rejection of ongoing efforts committee, a consensus Teixeira, the stakeholder by the People’s Progressive chairperson, a public call for consultation forms part of a Party Civic (PPP/C)

o r a l a n d w r i t t e n continuous consultative administration to amend the submissions, and public process which began on electorallaws. outreaches and hearings, the November 6, 2021 when the

The APNU+AFC was at in depth involvement of Ministry of Parliamentary the time responding to a experts on electoral laws, Affairs and Governance recent report that the electoral systems, elections published the draft Ministry of Parliamentary technologies, and elections

Representation of the Affairs and Governance will management, and holistic Governance announced that Centre in Georgetown, People’s (Amendment) soonbeconveninganational constitutionalandlegislative it will be convening a Guyana. This consultation is (ROPA) Bill and the draft stakeholders’ consultation amendments or enactments. national stakeholders’ an integral element of the Regulations made under the on the draft amendments to We stand ready to lend consultation on the draft Government of Guyana’s RepresentationofthePeople Guyana’s electoral laws. In parliamentary support to all amendments to Guyana’s commitment to implement a Act on its social media a statement released on agreed-tochanges. electoral laws on Tuesday consultative, inclusive and pages The public was Thursday, the Opposition

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira

The Opposition said October 25, 2022, from participatory process invitedtoperusethedraft party said that its previous however that the PPP 13:00hrs to 16:00hrs at the regarding electoral reform, (Continued on page 19) rejectionoftheeffortsbythe embark on urgent and continues to ignore the calls Governmentstillstands. comprehensive electoral from a range of local and

For the Opposition party, reform. According to the international stakeholders to local, regional, and national A P N U + A F C , abandon its unilateral and elections must meet three comprehensive electoral self serving scheme on objectives: only eligible reform must, at minimum, electoral reform “It p e r s o n s m u s t b e include the following continues to recklessly registered—that is, we must components: a thorough disregard the demand for a have a clean voters’ list, review by GECOM of its clean voters list The results must accurately performance in managing shenanigans of the PPP will reflect the will of those who recent elections; genuine not win the trust and voted, and every step of the national consultations confidence of the public, election process must win involving the public, civil participating parties, and the trust and confidence of s o c i e t y , a n d t h e other relevant stakeholders. the public, participating parliamentary political It is past time for the PPP to parties, and other relevant parties. stop its nonsense,” the stakeholders.

The party noted that oppositionsaidinstatement.

Meeting these three these must be modelled after Consultations objectives, the party said the 1999/2000 Constitution Meanwhile, earlier this requires that Guyana must Reform Commission week, the Ministry of

Parliamentary Affairs and Arthur Chung Conference

Pensioner found guilty of raping underage girl

A 62 year old man of D e v o n s h i r e C a s t l e , EssequiboCoast,RegionTwo was on Wednesday found guilty of raping an underage girl.

The convicted rapist, Lalldeo Jagdeo, made his court appearance at the Suddie High Court before JusticeJo-AnnBarlow Jagdeo was accused of raping the girl who is under the age of 16 on September 28,2019atLimaSands.A12member jury made their deliberation at the end of the trial and determined that he wasguiltyoftheoffence.

A probation report was ordered by the court and sentencing was deferred to 25 October2022at13:00hours.

Court to hear Ramps Logistics lawsuit over of local content certificate on Nov. 11

Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire

After being denied the Roxane George Wiltshire L a s t J u n e , t h e certificate twice, Ramps has set the 11th of contentions surfaced over Logistics had promised to November, 2022, as the date the manner in which foreign take the issue to the Courts. for oral arguments to be companies are now using According to a Fixed Date presented in the case filed by Guyanese nationals to fulfill Application (FDA) recently Ramps Logistics against the their local content drafted, the company has Government of Guyana over requirementforthecompany asked the Court to issue its denial of a local content to be 51 percent locally several orders including a certificate. owned. declaration that Ramps

Acting Chief Justice enough.”

On Thursday, the Chief Ramps for instance Logistics has satisfied the Justice also set strict p r o v i d e d d e t a i l e d statutory requirements and timelines for written information regarding preconditions necessary for s u b m i s s i o n s T h e Deepak Lall, a Trinidadian the grant of the certificate of submissions are expected to born with strong Guyanese registration under the Local be handed in no later than roots who purchased 51 ContentAct2021. Monday, October 31. Ramps percent of Ramps Guyana The FDA which lists the L o g i s t i c s i s b e i n g for US$1M, making it 51 Minister of Natural represented by Senior percentGuyaneseowned. Resources, the Director of Counsel Edward Luckhoo The issue however, is t h e L o c a l C o n t e n t and attorney at law C.V that Lall’s father and Secretariat, the Local Satram while the State is grandfather are Guyanese Content Secretariat and the being represented by and he, outside of the oil and Attorney General of Guyana Solicitor General Nigel gas company had very little as respondents is also Hawke. to do with the country. Lall seekingadeclarationthatthe

Ramps Logistics which would have received his decision of the Minister is originally from Trinidad Guyanese passport in 2021. and/or the Director of the and Tobago but is registered He was described as a Local Content Secretariat under Guyana’s Companies Guyanesenational,butsome and/or the Local Content Act was earlier this year, b e l i e v e t h i s w a s Secretariat (LCS) made on denied a local content conveniently pursued to June82022refusingtogrant certificate for purportedly fulfill the 51 percent orissuethemacertificateof not being “Guyanese requirement.

(Continued on

Govt.setsMarch13,2023 forLocalGovt.polls

Min

e

Loca

o

works to ensure the Government and Regional successful planning and Dev

p

, N

g

executionofLGE. Dharamlall has selected

The government had March 13, 2023 as the date repeatedly indicated that it for Local Government was ready to hold the Elections(LGE). elections but was awaiting

Inastatementreleasedto the guidance of GECOM. the public on Thursday, the Notwithstanding this, the Government of Guyana political opposition reiteratedthatitiscommitted continuedtopresstheissue. to the upholding of

Though the Local democracy, noting that the Government Minister is h o l d i n g o f L o c a l responsible for announcing Government Elections is an the date for the LGEs, this important pillar in the can only be done after democraticpoliticalsystem. consultations with GECOM,

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall

Pursuant to this belief, it which would pronounce on disclosedthattheMinisterof the election’s machinery’s Local Government and readiness to facilitate the Regional Development democratic process The28:03, I appoint March 13, chose March 13, 2023 as the elections were previously2023, as the day on which dateforLGE. due in 2021, and some $1.1elections of Councillors for

Dharamlall also wrote to billion had been allocated inLocal Authorities shall be Justice (Retd) Claudette the 2021 national budgetheld,” Hon Dharamlall Singh, Chairperson of the national budget for it;wrotetoJusticeSingh. G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s however, there wereAccordingly, an Order Commission (GECOM) questions surrounding theunder Section 35 shall be appointing the date based on credibility of severalpublished in the Gazette the work plan submitted by employees who wereappointing the date The GECOM. implicated in the attempts tostatement added that as part

“Please be informed that rig the 2020 General andof the Government’s pursuant to Section 35 (1) of Regional Elections (GRE).commitment, some $2.9B the Local Authorities Several were eventuallyhas been allocated to (Elections) Act, Chapter fired.GECOM for preparatory

Guilty of raping an underage girl, Lalldeo Jagdeo

MARAD signs over $200M in contracts to rehabilitate 4 marine vessels

he Maritime $19,554,480 to rehabilitate the contractor being paid the Administration M L D a v i d P a n d entire contract sum before D e p a r t m e n t $25,546,700 to rehabilitate the end of 2019. As a result,

T (MARAD) has ML Thompson. Dockyard the AG noted that this is a signed two contracts on Inc. had placed a bid of clear breach of the payment Monday for the docking and $183,550,699 for the works scheduleofthecontract. rehabilitation of four of its on Barge Seamang and Following the contract marine vessels at an $64,444,113 to rehabilitate award on Monday, on estimated cost of over SplitBarge. Tuesday, the Department $200M. This year, some $270 awarded a contract to Dax

The marine vessels that million was approved in the Contracting Services for the would be rehabilitated budget to facilitate repairs to supply of spares for the shortly are ML David P, ML thesevessels. Kaieteur News maintenance of buoys and Thompson, Barge Seamang had previously reported that beacons for the Waini, and Split Barge. In a brief the Auditor General’s 2020 Essequibo, Demerara and statement on its Facebook report had flagged a contract BerbiceRivers. page, the Department stated signed by the MARAD in that the contracts for the 2019,whereacontractorwas rehabilitation of the ML paid the full contract sum in David P and ML Thompson a d v a n c e f o r t h e were awarded to Gopie rehabilitationanddockingof Investments Inc., while the a vessel ,while there was no contracts for Split Barge and proof of the status of the BargeSeamangvesselswere works. The contract was to awardedtoDockyardInc. rehabilitate the ML David P

When the projects were vessel which is again slated opened back in April at the forrepairsthisyear National Procurement and It was reported that a Tender Administration $12.9 million contract was Board (NPTAB) office, signed on November 27, Kaieteur News had reported 2019torepairthevessel.The that four companies were AGatthetimeofreportingin vying to rehabilitate the September 2021 stated that vessels. Gopie Investment no proper documentation who was awarded the was provided to them for the contracts had placed a bid of works on this project despite

The awarding of the two contracts on Monday to Gopie Investments and Dockyard Inc. (Photo credit: MARAD)

ML David P which is slated for rehabilitation

(Photo credit: Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated)

PURCHASES

-saysfossilfuelcompaniescausedthem topaybillionstoclean-upafterdisasters

Another U.S state sues Exxon, others over climate-change deception

OnTuesday, another U.S Sandy and Hurricane Ida – fuels companies seeking US companies had created a Exxon, BP PLC and that the Clean Air Act is the state filed a lawsuit against Reutersreported.

billions for their allege public nuisance in the state Chevron lost their second exclusive vehicle to regulate American oil giant, In a statement, the New deception of impact their and failed to adequately federal appeal against a greenhouse gas emissions ExxonMobil and four other JerseyAttorneyGeneralsaid companies have on climate- warn customers, consumers lawsuit by the city of and that Baltimore’s stateoil giants seeking US thatthefossilfuelcompanies change. and regulators about the Baltimore seeking to hold law claims conflicted with billions in damages over “understood decades ago

The suit follows other risks posed by their fossil them responsible for climate f e d e r a l i n t e r e s t s theirallegeddeceptionofthe that their products were U S attorneys general in fuel products. The lawsuit change. It was on April 7, Nevertheless, a three-judge impacts their fossil fuels causing climate change” but Rhode Island, Delaware, seeks to force the companies 2022, when the Fourth U.S. panel of the Fourth Circuit emissions have on the wentto“greatlengthstohide Minnesota, Massachusetts, topayfordamageassociated Circuit Court of Appeals ruledthatBaltimore’scaseis environment. the truth and mislead the Connecticut, Vermont and with climate change, citing unanimously ruled and sent builtonstate,notfederallaw

The lawsuit was brought people of New Jersey, and theDistrictofColumbia. the costs taxpayers were back the lawsuit once again and should be heard in state, by the New Jersey Attorney the world. In short, these RHODE ISLAND incurring to repair roads and totheStatecourt,asopposed notthefederalcourt. General Matthew J. Platkin companies put their profits Back in May, Kaieteur bridges and rebuild coastal to the matter being heard in Baltimore’s 2018 against Exxon, Shell, ahead of our safety. It’s long News had reported that structures. thefederalcourt–liketheoil complaint claims the C h e v r o n , B P, a n d overdue that the facts be another attempt by the oil

MASSACHUSETTS giantsdesired. companies deceived the ConocoPhillips. According aired in a New Jersey court, companies was denied to O n M a y 2 4 , t h e With the court’s ruling, public about the dangers to the lawsuit, decades-long and the perpetrators of the have a climate change Massachusetts High Court the city of Baltimore has associated with their fossildeception by the oil disinformation campaign lawsuitbroughtagainstthem unanimously rejected once again, won the legal fuel products, which companies has exacerbated pay for the harms they’ve be tried in a federal court as Exxon’s submission to contributed to greenhouseclimate change and forced caused.” opposed to a state court – dismiss a lawsuit against gas pollution and climate the state of New Jersey to New Jersey’s lawsuit which is considered more them in which it was change The lawsuit pay billions of dollars to comes at a time where plaintiff-friendly stated that the oil giant alleges that the energy clean up after deadly severalotherlitigationswere Rhode Island’s lawsuit misled consumers giantscreatedapublic disasters such as Superstorm brought against the fossil allege that various oil and investors about nuisance and should climate change be forced to cover and the dangers the climate of using fossil change costs the fuels. c i t y f a c e s ,

The court i n c l u d i n g ruledthattheoil i n c r e a s e d giant must face infrastructure a trial over spending. allegations that it

CALIFORNIA lied about the

On April 19, a climate crisis, and federal appeals even hid the fossil court sent lawsuits by fuel industry’s role in six California cities and worsening environmental counties accusing Exxon, damage. The lawsuit was Chevron and other energy brought against Exxon by giants of fuelling climate Massachusetts Attorney battle to have its climate change back to state court. General, Maura Healey change lawsuit against more The ruling was made by the Exxon called the lawsuit than 20 energy firms San Francisco based 9th politically motivated and returnedtostatecourt,where U S Circuit Court of claimed that it violated a it believes it has a better Appeals. state law protecting chanceofobtainingdamages Reuters reported too that defendants from lawsuits for the harm it maintains the U.S. Circuit Judge Sandra designedtosilencethem. fossil fuel firms knowingly I k u t a r e j e c t e d t h e

The lawsuit accuses inflicted on the city and its companies’ arguments that Exxonofbreakingthestate’s residentsoverdecades. the cases raised substantial consumer protection laws According to Reuters, federal issues that belonged with a decades-long cover t h e F o u r t h C i r c u i t in federal court, adding that up of what it knew about the “resoundingly” rejected the the statute that governs impact on the climate of companies’ arguments that removing cases from state to burning fossil fuels The Baltimore’s state-law claims federal courts must be state also noted that the were inherently federal interpretednarrowly company deceived investors because it sought to hold “Our adherence to this abouttheriskstoitsbusiness them liable based on the doctrine does not change posedbyglobalheating. production and sale of oil merely because plaintiffs BALTIMORE andgasabroad. raisenovelandsweeping

Whereas, in April, Theoilgiantshadargued (Continued on page 20)

[Photo Credit: iberdrola.com]

Opposition calls for comprehensive...

From page 13 been made accessible for laws including the documents and submit public perusal via a link a f o r e m e n t i o n e d feedback to the Ministry published on the Ministry’s Representation of the within six weeks; however, Facebookpages. People (Amendment) Bill a f t e r r e q u e s t s f o r

Tothisend,onehundred 2022, Regulations Made extensions, the Ministry a n d f i f t y s e v e n UndertheRepresentationof a c c o m m o d a t e d organisations have been the People Act 2021, and submissions of feedback invited to the upcoming National Registration wellinto2022. consultationonOctober25. (Amendment)Bill2022.

Recommendations were These organisations Thisconsultationwillbe received from a variety of represent a broad cross live streamed on the stakeholders including civil section of society including Department of Public society actors, the Guyana p o l i t i c a l p a r t i e s , Information’s Facebook Elections Commission, constitutional bodies, civil page. some political parties, and society organizations in the The public is invited to other interested individuals labour movement, private tuneintotheseconsultations andorganisations. sector, faith-based, youth, via the live-stream to gain

These recommendations w o m e n , L G B T Q , more information about the were consolidated and ethnic/cultural, health and proposed amendments and provided to the Attorney rehabilitation organisations, becomefurtherimmersedin General, who in May 2022, and other civil society the legislative reform facilitated in person actors. process. m e e t i n g s w i t h t h e At the upcoming The Government of respondents. consultation, Mohabir Anil Guyana remains committed

Updated versions of the Nandlall, SC, M P , to creating more robust and ROPA Bill and Regulations Attorney General and c o h e r e n t e l e c t i o n s have been made available Minister of Legal Affairs, legislation as part of the onceagainandthenewdraft will make presentations and constantly developing amendments to the National lead discussions on the draft democratic architecture of Registration Act have also amendments to the electoral ourOneGuyana.

- labourer gets 6 months for wounding man Wife beater put away for 4 months

A wife beater will spend the next four wife. months behind bars after admitting at the Meanwhile, another labourer, Keshwa Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court that he had Nauth, 22, had also appeared at the same assaultedhiswifeonTuesdaylast. court but he was accused of unlawfully

HewasidentifiedasDanilloCornelious,a wounding a man identified as Sewnandan 35 year old labourer of Anna Regina, Persaud. Nauth of Bush Lot, Essequibo Essequibo Coast Region Two. Cornelious Coast, was arrested on Monday last for the made his court appearance on Wednesday offence and when Magistrate Lambert read before Magistrate Crystal Lambert and he the charge to him, he pleaded guilty and was pleaded guilty to offence of assaulting his sentencedtosixmonthsinprison.

Jailed four months for beating his wife, Danillo Cornelious

Jailed six months for wounding another man, Keshwa Nauth

Several ensnared in Santa Rosa $9M scandal -treasureroutonstationbail

hillip Bess, the have been informed that treasurer of Santa Bess was released from Rosa, Village, police custody and are now

P Moruca, Region awaiting General Village

council was given control of councillorOne who was arrested Meeting scheduled for the monies to manage it in Theyhadallegedtoothatrecently over a missing Sunday, October 23, 2022 to the best interest of the this is not the first time that$9 5M government grant receive an update on the residents. Stanley is unable to givemeant for coffee farmers has case.

“At a recently conveyed account for village funds.been released on station bail Bess was arrested two General Meeting, the One protestor, Paul asinvestigationscontinue. weeks after Santa Rosa Toshao, Stravos Stanley and Rodrigues, an elected

Investigators have residents accused their the treasurer Phillip Bess committee representative ofrelatedto Kaieteur News that Toshao Stravos Stanley of were called upon to give Kumaka–partofSantaRosathattheyaretreatingthecase corruption during a protest account for the Coffee – alleged that Stanley had a s a n a l l e g e d they had staged They Project fund. The report was failed to declare other fundsmisappropriation of funds wanted Stanley to give that all of the Santa Rosa entering the village treasuryand it is suspected that more account for some $9.5M that Village Funds had been toitscouncilmembers. persons might be involved. was granted to the village by withdrawn from the account He recounted twoHowever,Besshasbeenable thegovernmentasagrantfor and the villagers are occasions where moniesto assist investigators by coffeefarmers. alarmed. were not declared and whengiving account on how the Santa Rosa residents had

T h e r e w a s n o the council called on Stanleymoney was spent but moved to protest over the consultation with the coffee to account for the cash, he measures might have to be funds and other alleged farmers regarding the couldnot.takenrecoverall. corrupt acts taking place in withdrawal or use of the “A contractor came inSpeaking with Kaieteur theirvillageafteraletterwas no attention is being paid to The letter was penned by funds. here to do the roads and heNews on Thursday, Santa published in one of the daily allegations of corruption in MervynWilliams, a member

Further,farmershavenot paidthevillage$150,000forRosa Villagers said that they newspapers, claiming that Indigenouscommunities. of the opposition and he benefitted from the fund sandroyalties(aroyaltypaidmade reference to the withdrawn”, Williams for using sand from the allegations made by the allegedinhisletter village).

Social media platforms taking action on illegal Guyana maps

Santa Rosa residents that

The residents had That money was nevertheir Toshao, Stanley cannot disclosed to Kaieteur News declared, the samegive account for the $9.5M too that only three persons contractor also donated granted to the community by were assigned as signatories $260,000 to repair a four the government to fund a to withdraw the funds from wheel motorbike belongingcoffee project Williams the account and they are, to the village, that too was wrote that the funds were Stanley, their Toshao, Bess, never declared and we don’t reportedly deposited in a the village treasurer and know where the money is”,bank account and the village another male village Rodrigueshadclaimed.

AnotherU.SstatesuesExxon,others...

From page 18

but we are already suffering the effects. causes of action,” she wrote for the three- Climate change, ocean acidification and judgepanel. rising sea level pose existential threats to the

California local governments including people and State of Guyana. As a scientist, I San Mateo, Marin and Santa Cruz counties urgepeopletolookattheevidenceandtoface had sued more than 30 energy companies reality.” The case refers to the overwhelming beginning in 2017, alleging their production scientificevidenceofthedevastatingeffectof and marketing of fossil fuels contributed to greenhouse gas emissions, pointing out that globalwarming. oil and gas production are a major source of

oreign Secretary Robert Persaud currently before the International Court of whowasaccompaniedbyDonette Justice(ICJ). Streete, Head of Frontiers Unit on Theforeignsecretaryisexpectedtohave

F Wednesday met virtually with a follow up discussion with the social media Facebook senior representatives regarding platforms of ongoing efforts to have false narratives and illegal maps of Guyana Guyana’s concerns addressed. The foreign reference to the country’s border with secretary had cause to write to the social Venezuela. media companies after a campaign of

The meeting was convened after the disinformation was being waged against Foreign Secretary penned letters to Guyana by several Spanish social media Facebook’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) accounts,sharinganillegalmapclaimingthe MarkZuckerbergandCEOofTwitter,Parag Essequibo region as Venezuela’s territory Agrawal to have the inaccurate information The Guyana/Venezuela border controversy and illegal maps removed from the is currently before the ICJ and Guyana is respectiveplatforms. confidentthatthecourtwillruleinitsfavour

Persaud told the representatives that the concerningthevalidityoftheArbitralAward Guyana Government is concerned about the of 1899 which states that Essequibo belongs spread of disinformation since the matter is toGuyana.(DPI)

The lawsuits claimed the companies, greenhouse gas emissions Guyana is which also include BP and Shell, created a particularlyvulnerabletoclimatechangeand publicnuisance,failedtowarnabouttherisks rising sea levels while ocean acidification of climate change and should be forced to threatens the Guyanese livelihoods that cover the climate-change costs the local dependonhealthymarineecosystems. government face, such as infrastructure

The case cites Guyana’s international repairduetorisingsealevels. obligations under the United Nations

Notably, in all of the cases that were filed Framework Convention on Climate Change in state courts, which are perceived as and the Paris Agreement in support of its advantageous for plaintiffs – state courts are claimfordeclarationsthatemissionsfromoil establishedbythelawsofeachstateandhave and gas production make the environment broad jurisdiction, in contrast, federal courts more harmful to health and wellbeing in are established under the U.S. Constitution violation of Article 149J of the Constitution, and have a much narrower jurisdiction – which guarantees the right to a healthy resultinginoilcompaniespreferringlawsuits environment and requires the State to protect againstthemtobetriedinfederalcourts. the environment for present and future

GUYANA generations.

Meanwhile, on the local front, Exxon is Article 149 J specifically states that: (1) facing multiple court action on the issue of everyone has the right to an environment that climate change. Two citizens, through their is not harmful to his or her health or welllawyers,filedacaseintheHighCourtagainst being (2) The State shall protect the Exxon’s Stabroek Block projects. The first environment, for the benefit of present and applicant,Dr.TroyThomas,isaScientistand future generations, through reasonable a University of Guyana lecturer. The second legislative and other measures designed to –applicant, Quadad de Freitas, is a young man (a) prevent pollution and ecological from the South Rupununi Region of Guyana, degradation; (b) promote conservation; and an area rich in biodiversity, now threatened (c)securesustainabledevelopmentanduseof byclimatechange. natural resources while promoting justifiable

According to the case, the High Court is economicandsocialdevelopment. being asked to determine whether Exxon’s The case, which is set to be heard in the operations violate the Constitutional right of Demerara High Court – also seeks to protect current and future generations to a healthy children, young people and future environment. According to Dr Thomas, generations who bear a disproportionate “Guyana is a carbon sink. The Guyanese burden in having to live with the effects of peoplearenotresponsibleforclimatechange, climatechange.

Released on station bail for the alleged misappropriation of funds.

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud meets with Facebook representatives

Suriname releases detained Guyanese fishing vessels

- Corentyne Chamber sees loosening up of restrictions

The Upper Corentyne government will push Chamber of Commerce & further to remove other Industry has indicated that restrictions such as the theGuyanesefishingvessels barrier placed to issue that were detained in licenses fisher folk in neighbouringSurinamehave Berbice (Corentyne). ”We been released and that the are hopeful that our authorities in the Dutch Surinamese counterparts speaking country have will see the issuance of somewhat “loosened up on license to our fisherfolk as a somerestrictions.” routine application Our

The Chamber, led by fisherfolk have long enjoyed businessman and former friendly relations with our Mayor of Corriverton neighbouring counterparts HemchandJaichandsaidina and we believe with the statement that the boats that softening of attitudes on this were detained and required matter, we will continue to Notwithstanding, the development of that

fishing days, he operated in While Guyanese with to be stationed in Nickerie, enjoy good relations,” the Government said it remains country’s fishing industry Suriname. He said he was licencescaughttheirfishand Suriname, have since been Chamberfurthersaid. c o m m i t t e d t o g o o d Fishermen interviewed by also part of the development sold it in Suriname or released These fishing Late last month, this neighbourly relations with this newspaper have all of the Surinamese fishing Guyana and could have left vessels, Kaieteur News newspaper had reported that Suriname. i n d i c a t e d k n o w i n g industry, like many other their boats in Guyana, they understands, are owned and an agreement between Jagdeo during a outreach Guyanese fishing in Guyanese. now have to sell their caught used by Guyanese and were Guyana and Suriname for in Berbice had alleged that Surinamese waters. It was It was the increase of SK in Suriname, which has detained for fishing in the latter to deliver 150 SK corrupt practices by said that as the industry licenses by Surinamese reduced their product cost Suriname waters without fishing licences, allowing authorities in Suriname have grew, Guyanese eventually middlemen that eventually becauseofinfluxandcontrol licences. Guyanese to operate there, stalleditspromisedlicensing started buying licences forced Guyanese to seek the by the Surinamese market.

However, as it is, the had hit a snag as local of 150 local fishing vessels. through middlemen to intervention of the They also have to leave their Suriname authorities, authorities say they have He said too that Guyana will operate there During an Government. In a push back boats in Suriname and find a despite its previous exhausted all diplomatic be seeking CARICOM’s interview with Chairman of from industry stakeholders d i f f e r e n t m o d e o f agreement with the Guyana routes in addressing the intervention to resolve the the Greater Georgetown in Suriname, the situation transportation to and from government to issue 150 matter continued harassment of its FishermenCo-op,Mohamed has seemed to have “opened work. The authorities have fishing licenses has not As a consequence fisherfolk that has been Khan a few months ago, he a can of worms and made alsodemandedareductionin fulfilled the promise. This Guyana’s Ambassador to continuing as a result. “We had in fact told this matters worse” as one the size of fishing vessels had caused the Government Suriname,KeithGeorgewas havetostartplayinghardball newspaper that during his affectedfishermanhadputit. whichlocalssayisunsafe. of Guyana, inclusive of the recently summoned by the now,” Jagdeo told fishers in President, Vice President Interim Minister of Foreign RegionSixonSeptember16. and Minister of Agriculture Affairs, International According Jagdeo, who to have continuous Business, and International spoke to fishers at both Port discussionswithSuriname. Cooperation (BIBIS), Mourant and Skeldon, The Chamber in their K r i s h n a M a t h o e r a , alleged that the Minister is statement said that they are following statements made linked to several people satisfied “with the by Vice President Jagdeo controlling the fishing boat Government of Guyana’s alleging corruption in the licenses and profiteering off pronouncements on the issuance of fishing licences. of Guyanese fisherfolk, fishing license issue which This move made by which has snared the we have been grappling with Suriname prompted the agreement between the two for quite some time.” The GuyanaGovernmenttoissue Governments to license 150 Chamber noted that, “with a statement detailing its fishing boats here. Attorney the recent statement, efforts to resolve the issue General Anil Nandlall back PresidentIrfaanAliandVice diplomatically Despite in September had also President, Bharrat Jagdeo, these efforts, Guyana had threatened legal recourse to the Chamber has seen a said then that the desired resolvetheissue. softening of the attitude of outcome has not been K a i e t e u r N e w s the Surinamese towards our achieved and Guyanese understands that Guyanese fisher folk.” Moreover, the fishermen continue to be hadbeenfishinginSuriname Chamber is hopeful that the harassed by Surinamese for decades and were even interventions of the a u t h o r i t i e s . instrumental in the

GYSBI, SES Local Content Master...

From page 3 remaining in the domestic economy and a GYSBI press release, Deputy General beingusedtodevelopthelivesofGuyanese. Manager, Rabin Chandarpal, who received GYSBI has been and will always remain the approval at a ceremony on Thursday committed to identifying, promoting and from Minister of Natural Resources, maximising the capacity of Guyanese VickramBharrat,saidthatsinceitsinception nationals and companies throughout all in 2017, GYSBI has focused its efforts in facetsofouroperations,”hesaid. developing local content and creating The two companies, earlier this year, beneficial opportunities for Guyanese also received their Local Content workers and vendors within the oil and gas Certificates, after satisfying the sector requirements for Guyanese ownership

“We have more than 600 Guyanese GYSBI serves as the preferred onshore currently employed within our operations, support for oil and gas operators in Guyana, including a large number of females and 85 offeringservicesrangingfromwarehousing, percent of our supply chain, with the construction, supply chain management to exception of specialised goods and services expatriate management and customs and such as the purchase of cranes, go to logistics services while SES offers Guyanese vendors. We want to see value hazardous and non hazardous waste generatedfromGuyana’soffshoreresources managementandtankcleaningservices.

Guyanese fishermen have been struggling due to low catch and other issues.

WANTED

Skilled Carpenters, Masons & Labourers. Call: 602-9469, 615-7526, 660-6385 or 6257642.

Wanted: Experienced supervisor, cashier, counter person , cooks and labourer. Apply @ Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts.

Driver, sales man, porters to work in warehouse. Must have experience , attractive salary offered. Call: 696-4444.

A certified cook needed. Call: 626-6547/ 227-6544.

Live- in Waitress to work in bar , must have an ID. Call: 221-2785/ 659-1930.

One able-bodied Porter to work in hardware store at Sheriff St location. Between ages 20-40, call: 227-1363.

Experienced gardener to work in kitchen garden @ Queenstown 2 days per week. Call: 648-8977, between 8am-4pm.

Experience cashier, cooks, counter staff, office assistant, bakers & cleaners. Apply @ Hot & Spicy located in Albertown. Call: 225-6255/ 226-9000.

One experienced Cook to work at Annie roti shop located in Plaisance line path, $5000 per day. Call: 6031278.

Diesel mechanic required to work at Charity. Call: 2235273/ 223-5274.

Bobcat operator needed. Call: 222-0196.

VACANCY

A able-bodied live-in Housekeeper to work in Virgina U.S.A. Between the ages of 30-50. Call: 845-3258241/ 592-615-5476.

Vacancy Existed For 2 Experience Dispatcher At Confidential Cabs Tel 6951961/231-5784.

General cleaner, office assistant, maintenance workers & live in farm workers needed. Call: 621-6969, 615-7784/ 505-9107.

Driver needed, must have 3yrs experienced, valid license & sound secondary education. Call: 233-2475/6 or 641-1386, email:

One skilled mason/ carpenter needed. Atleast 3yrs experienced in similar capacity & ability to work flexible hours. Call: 2332475/6 or 641-1386, email: dynamicguyana@ gmail.com

Bond Attendants & Porters needed @ Survival Shopping Complex. Call: 609-2995 or survival.humanresources @gmail.com

Supermarket sales representatives / sales girls needed @ Survival Shopping Complex. Call:609-2995,email: survival.humanresources@ gmail.com.

Supermarket cashiers AM & PM needed @ Survival Shopping Complex. Call: 609-2995,email: survival.humanresources@ gmail.com.

Driver needed @ Survival Shopping Complex. Must have a valid drivers license ( with motor lorry) Call: 6092995,email: survival.humanresources@ gmail.com.

Agri. Ministry to rehabilitate & extend Region 1 office for estimated cost of $21M

During the opening of tenders yesterday, it was revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture is looking for a contractor to rehabilitate and extend its Region One staff office building for an estimated cost of $21 million.

The ministry s project attracted five contractors who submitted bids ranging between $21 million and $23 million for the job. Also opened is a contract for the construction of a primary school at Wakenaam, Region Three. The Ministry of Education project which was retendered and is estimated to cost $90 million saw a total of 11 contractors now vying for the project. Below are the companies and their bids:

Ministry of Agriculture

Rehabilitation and extension of staff office building at Kumaka, Barima Waini, Region One.

Ministry of Education Construction of primary school at Wakenaam (retendered).

FOR SALE

Two pure breed German shepherd, 7 weeks old fully vaccinated. Call: 650-9998/ 626-0953.

LAND FOR SALE

House lots for sale in gated community, start with $500k deposit. Call: 233-6997/ 6221957.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop @ Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence Call 645-8443 or 642-9823.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade 1 or 2. Email application: techserigy@ yahoo.com or call 615-9132.

Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area. Call: 6159132.

One hairdresser needed @ LE botique located in Amazonia mall. Call: 6589616/ 604-0914.

Rehabilitation of existing irrigation structures on the north eastern dam of the East Demerara Water Conservancy- Lot 4 and 5.

Design, review and supervision for construction of building, Sixth Form College, Region Four.

FOR RENT

Property for rent, suitable for business and living, located in Kitty. Call: 6632506.

Two bedroom apartment for rent on E.C.D. Call: 6296237.

Three bedrooms unfurnished upstairs at Vreeden-hoop & 2 bedroom furnished apt at Providence. Call: 604-6664 or 682-6238.

VEHICLE FOR SALE

One honda crv, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable & 1 new super custom hiace bus 2.5M . Call: 649-0956.

SERVICES

Visa application: Canada and UK & U.S.A. Graphics design & advertisements. Wedding decorations & elderly grooming: hair, nail etc. Call: 626-7040.

VACANCY

Experienced Supervisor, Cashiers, Counter server needed. Apply @ Hack's Halaal Restaurant 5 Commerce St. with written application.

Vacancy exist for one security guard to work night shift in Bel Air Park. Contact: 225-5818/ 624-9505.

Design, review and supervision for construction of building, Sixth Form College, Region Two.

TO LET

Newly constructed 2 bedrooms apartment in a safe and healthy enviroment. Call: 698-6496/ 622-6512.

Design, review and supervision for construction of building, Sixth Form College, Region Six.

Court to hear Ramps Logistics...

From page 14 registration is unlawful, illegal, null, void and of no legal effect.

The applicant also wants declaration that the failure and refusal by the Minister and/or the Director of the Local Content Secretariat and/or the LCS not to reconsider its decision made on June 8, 2022 is unreasonable, unlawful and arbitrary.

Added to this, the company has requested a declaration that it was unlawfully denied a certificate of registration and benefits arising to

as a result since it is by virtue of Section 6 of the Local Content Act 2021 entitled to a number of benefits. Ramps Logistics is requesting too an order of certiorari quashing the decision not to issue them a certificate and an order of mandamus compelling the Minister and/or Director of the Local Content Secretariat and/or the Secretariat itself to grant the company a certificate of registration or alternatively an order that the powers that be reconsiders Ramps application for a certificate of registration.

Truss quits, but UK’s political and economic turmoil persist

LONDON (AP) can unify its warring Her Sept. 23 economic acrimony “It’s time for the British Prime Minister Liz factions.Truss, who said she plan included a raft of tax prime minister to go,” Truss quit Thursday after a will remain in office until a cuts paid for by Conservative lawmaker tumultuous and historically replacement is chosen, has government borrowing — Miriam Cates said, echoing brief term marred by been prime minister for just that investors worried the sentiments of many economicpoliciesthatroiled 45 days and will almost Britain couldn’t afford. It others. The pound rose financial markets and a certainly go down as the pummeled the value of the about 1% Thursday to rebellion in her political shortest serving leader in pound and drove up the cost around $1.13 after Truss’ party that obliterated her British history. George of mortgages, causing resignation. Where the authority. Canning died in office in economic pain for people Conservative Party goes Truss became the third 1827 after 119 days. The and businesses already from here is not clear. Its Conservative prime minister Conservative Party said it struggling from an economy myriad factions from to be toppled in as many would choose a successor by yet to emerge from the pain hard right Brexiteers to years, extending the the end of next week ofthepandemic. centrist “One Nation” Tories instability that has shaken Potential contenders That financial tumult led —areateachother’sthroats. Britain since it broke off include: former Treasury to the replacement of Truss’ “Nobody has a route from the European Union chief Rishi Sunak, who lost Treasury chief, multiple plan. It’s all sort of hand-toand leaving its leadership in toTrussinthelastleadership policy U turns and a hand fighting on a day-tolimbo as the country faces a contest; House of Commons breakdown of discipline in day basis,” Conservative cost of living crisis and leader Penny Mordaunt; the governing Conservative lawmaker Simon Hoare told loomingrecession. Defense Secretary Ben Party the BBC onThursday before

Truss’ resignation is the The Bank of England“I cannot deliver the Wallace; and Boris Johnson, Truss resigned just a day Trussresigned. Newspapers culmination of months of was forced to intervene tomandate on which I was the former prime minister after vowing to stay in that usually support the simmering discontent inside prevent the crisis fromelected by the Conservative oustedinJulyoveraseriesof power, saying she was “a Conservativeswerevitriolic. the Conservative Party, spreading to the widerParty,” Truss acknowledged ethicsscandals. fighterandnotaquitter.”But An editorial in the Daily whose poll ratings have economy and puttingin a statement delivered The low tax, low she couldn’t hold on any Mail on Thursday was plunged. pensionfundsatrisk.outside her 10 Downing regulationeconomicpolicies longer after a senior minister headlined:“Thewheelshave

Johnson’s government Tr u s s t h e n f i r e dStreetoffice. that got Truss elected by her quit her government amid a come off the Tory clown came undone after he was K w a r t e n g , a n d h i s

Financial markets party proved disastrous in barrage of criticism and a car.” Truss’ departure on revealedtohaveheldaseries replacement, Jeremy Hunt,breathed a sigh of relief, but the real world at a time of vote in the House of Thursday sparked jubilation of parties in government scrapped almost all of Truss’Truss leaves a divided ruling soaring inflation and weak Commons Wednesday for the tabloid Daily Star, buildings at a time when tax cuts, cut short her energyparty seeking a leader who growth. descended into chaos and whichhadsetupalivestream peopleinBritainwerebarred subsidies and abandoned herlast week featuring a photo from mingling with friends promise of no publicof the prime minister beside and family or even visiting spendingcuts. aheadoflettucetoseewhich dying relatives The He said the governmentwouldlastlonger Conservative party spent the will need to save billions of

Keir Starmer leads calls for immediate general election

(BBC NEWS) Labour fromcrisistocrisis,weneed PM in British history when Leader Sir Keir Starmer ageneralelection.“Itistime shestandsdown. h a s c a l l e d f o r a n for Conservative MPs to do Leading pollster immediate general their patriotic duty, put the Professor Sir John Curtice election following the country first and give the said whoever leads the resignation of the prime peopleasay.”

Conservative party next minister on Thursday Sir The next general should “enjoy the next 18 Keir said the country “can election is not due to take months to two years, nothaveanotherexperiment place until at least 2024, because that will probably at the top of theTory party”. after the Conservatives won theirtenure”. Liz Truss resigned as prime a landslide majority in the “ P a r t i e s a n d minister after just 45 days in last one in 2019. Ms Truss governments who preside the job, claiming she was elected by the Tory over a fiscal crisis have “cannot deliver the mandate membership in September, nearly always struggled at onwhichIwaselected”. but she lost authority after a the ballot box at the next

A new prime minister is seriesofU-turns. election,” Sir John said. An expected to be announced In a brief speech outside Opinium poll this week by28October Downing Street, Ms Truss projected a 1997 style

It will be the second said the Conservative Party landslide for Labour, with Conservative Party hadelectedheronamandate thepartywinning411seats. leadershipelectionthisyear to cut taxes and boost T h e s a m e p o l l , The Liberal Democrats, the economicgrowth. conducted for the TUC SNP and the Green Party But given the situation, interviewing more than havealsobeencallingforan Ms Truss said: “I recognise 10,000 adults, predicted the immediategeneralelection. that I cannot deliver the Conservatives would be SNP Westminster mandate on which I was reduced from 356 MPs to Leader Ian Blackford MP elected by the Conservative 137. said the “utter chaos at the Party.”

SirKeirsaid:“Thisisnot centre of the Tory MsTruss said she would justasoapoperaatthetopof governmentcannotcontinue remain in post until a the Tory party - it’s doing anylonger”. successor formally takes huge damage to the

Liberal Democrat leader over as party leader and is reputation of our country Ed Davey said: “We do not appointed prime minister by “We need a general election need another Conservative King Charles III. She will so the public can have their prime minister lurching become the shortest-serving sayonthisutterchaos.”

“This lettuce outlasted s u m m e r p i c k i n g a pounds and there are “manyLiz Truss!” it proclaimed replacement as the economy difficult decisions” to beThursday worsened amid spiking made before he sets out a

While many Britons energy prices triggered by medium-term fiscal plan onjoined the world in laughing Russia’s invasion of Oct.31.at the lettuce joke, Bronwyn Ukraine.

Speaking to lawmakersMaddox, director of

Whoever succeeds Truss on Wednesday for the firstinternational affairs thinkwill become the country’s time since the U-turn, Trusstank Chatham House, said third prime minister this apologized and admitted she“there is no question that the year A national election had made mistakes, butU.K.’s standing in the world doesn’t have to be called insistedshewouldnotresignhas been severely battered until 2024, but opposition — a resolve that was short-by this episode and by the parties demanded one be lived.revolving door of prime held now, saying the Within hours a seniorministers.” g o v e r n m e n t l a c k s Cabinet minister, Home

ShesaidTruss’successor democratic legitimacy. SecretarySuellaBraverman,would need to have policies Opposition Labour Party quit, blasting Truss in her“based on economic leader Keir Starmer accused resignation letter, saying shestability, but need also to the Conservatives of had “concerns about theinclude a resolution of the presiding over “utter chaos.” d i r e c t i o n o f t h i srelationship with Europe; “This is doing huge damage government.”much of the upheaval to our economy and the For many Conservative represents the bitter reputation of our country,” lawmakers, the final strawaftermathofBrexit.” he said. “We must have a was a Wednesday evening

The Conservative party chance at a fresh start. We vote over fracking for shalesaid nominations for a new need a general election – gas that produced chaoticleaderwillcloseonMonday now.” scenes in Parliament, withCandidates need the

T r u s s ’ p o l i t i c a l partywhipsaccusedofusingsignatures of 100 of the 357 unraveling began after she heavy-handed tactics to gainConservative lawmakers, and her Treasury chief, votes.meaningamaximumfieldof Kwasi Kwarteng, unveiled C h r i s B r y a n t , athree. an economic plan with 45 lawmaker from the

Lawmakers will knock billion pounds ($50 billion) opposition Labour Party,outoneofthose,andwillask in unfunded tax cuts. That said he “saw members beingtheparty’s172,000members hammered the value of the physically manhandledto decide between the two pound and increased the cost and being bullied ” finalists in an online vote.

Conservative officialsThenewleaderisduetobein borrowing. deniedthis.placebyOct.28.

of U K government

Britain’s Prime Minister Liz Truss addresses the media in Downing Street in London, Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022. Truss says she resigns as leader of UK Conservative Party. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali)

EBD S/D T20 Competition Sandpipers, Herstelling B, Patricia Sawmill chalk wins

Sandpipers, Herstelling B and Patricia Sawmill registered victories when the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association S/D T20 competition continued recently.

At Laluni, Sandpipers beat the host by seven wickets. Sandpipers CC won the toss and decided to bowl first after the match was reduced to 15 overs.

Laluni CC made 111-6. Derick Tejnarine scored 43 as

Vinash Rampersaud took 2-6 and Riyad Sattaur 2-10, Sandpipers CC responded with 112-3 in 14.1 overs.

Ron Percival scored 62 off 28 balls with three fours and three sixes.

Herstelling B sports Club claimed victory over Continental by four runs.

Batting first, Herstelling B sports Club posted 155-9.

Jermin Ramroop made 44, Chemroy Kendell 40 and

Quazim Yusuf 30. Trevor Benn took 2-15, S. Sankar 222. Continental replied with 151. Budhan Baksh picked up 3-9.

Patricia Sawmill overcame Eccles by three wickets.

Eccles batted first and made 102 all out in 17.4 overs. Totoram Bissun made 30, Kevin Plantz 18 and Imran Housain 14. E.

Gomes claimed 4-10 and E. John 2-8.

Patricia Sawmill responded with 103-7 in 10.5 overs. A. Barro stroked 52 from 25 balls with four six fours and two sixes and E. Gomes made 17.

Plantz captured 4-18 and Kaysia Schultz 2-14.

Coach Moore elated with B’ce...

Minister Ramson announces...

From page 27 of the lights, international ICC and FIFA capability lights, which will be in excess of another US$1M, probably more along the line of US1.5M. These are not small sums of money that we are going to be spending, but they are in the highest standards that you would get.”

Friday October 21, 2022

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

It's time to let go of the past and focus only on the future, Aries. A new person may come into your life who can help you do just that. Communication with close friends and relatives is highlighted

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

There's definitely a downside to home ownership! Much as you love projects, Taurus, the joy is tempered when the chores never end. While your home is structurally sound.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

The glass may look half empty, but only at first glance. Keep looking at it, or perhaps change the way you look at it, and you'll see that it indeed is half full.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

There are lots of personal and financial issues to resolve today, Cancer. You may hear from your bank or see some alarming numbers on an ATM receipt. Don't get upset.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

A rising tide lifts all boats. When someone close experiences a windfall or especially good luck, Leo, the ripple effect reaches you. Change is in the air

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

It looks as though change is on the horizon at work, Virgo. You've just recently completed some long-term projects and are being recognized for your efforts.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

Crazy as it seems, why not plan that trip you've been eager to go on, Libra? Adventure calls, and although there are a few obstacles to stop you from answering, you can’t wait to get out of your rut.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

Prosperity is just around the corner, Scorpio. With it comes change. Change in your job, career, or environment figures prominently today. However this change manifests.

SAGIT (Nov.22–Dec.21)

Your world is changing, Sagittarius, both internally and externally. You feel a need to broaden your horizons. You may be contemplating a move to a new neighborhood or trip to a faraway land.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

Romance is in the air today, Capricorn. It's likely that your relationship with your loved ones will see a dramatic improvement. Perhaps some flowers will arrive unexpectedly.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

You're focused and attentive to detail. Some longstanding projects benefit from this sudden spurt of energy and get completed in record time.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Don't let others' bad moods get you down, Pisces. And don't feel it's your responsibility to cheer them up. Their moodiness is their business, not yours.

From page 28 players leading from the front was really a treat to watch. Super proud of the boys and what weve been able to achieve over the past week,” said Julian In 2015 a franchise League was started and the Inter-County was stopped but one of the best things the Board has done is bring back the Inter-County.

“The intercounty for us obviously is one step closer to the regional level so kudos to the GCB for reintroducing the format. It gives us the opportunity to see the cream of our talent going up against each other.

We saw a lot of good performances but most importantly we saw some good games. I think there is something special about turning up for your county,” posited Coach Moore, who won five Regional Youth titles; two at U-15 and three at U-19 levels. The retuned of the InterCounty saw Guyanas top players including Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford and GCB added a fourth team; the Presidents X1 which included some of Guyana most talented young players like Matthew Nandu, Movindra Dindyal, but apart from a half-century from Shamar Yearwood, none of young players produced outstanding performances. “We saw a lot of good performances, some good games but we still have some work to do to make improvements. Its been a while but its here again and thats a step in the right direction.

President of the GCB Bissoon Singh said the Franchise matches will still be played which is another step in the right direction from the GCB. Yes, obviously I think there is still a place for that, it can be a precursor to the inter county. Look I think weve always have to be looking at ways to better expose our players to competitive cricket and I think that may be one of the ways to go about it,” concluded Coach Moore.

He admitted that he thought based on information received, the primary sport that was played in Linden was football, but on reconsideration of that view, the design for the new facility was for all sports, and with this happening, the concern about cricket being removed from the MSC was no longer there.

Minister Ramson also highlighted that, “You would be happy to know that cricket would be played here as well and the standard that we put the lights at is the ICC standard. That is why it is so expensive. So that is go-

ing to be a big benefit for the area.” “Now one of the things that gives you, this facility, the opportunity to do, is to host all kinds of regional matches and stuff like that. So you can now put that firmly as part of our bidding process when we are going to bid to host games in the region,” said the Minister. “I may be off about a week or two but I expect the development of the ground, to start within about four weeks. So by the early part of February, late part in January you guys should be able to have a supreme ground here,” Ramson assured those gathered. And Minister Ramson furthered: “All of the requirements have been satisfied now I also want you to know you are also charged with a responsibility and that responsibility is to provide the best possible facility for the people of Linden too.”

Final at

Bourda Tomorrow

The exciting Big Man Cricket (BMC) T25 Over45 Tournament will culminate tomorrow at the world renowned Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, Bourdastartingat11.00am.

The tournament has endured many stops and starts over the past year and a half due to the prolonged periods of unfavorable w e a t h e r c o n d i t i o n s coupled with the COVID p a n d e m i c a n d i t s restrictions

This long-awaited final should witness an intense battle for championship honours when Essequibo Eagles do battle with the WestBankWarriors.

West Bank Warriors had earlier in the year brushed aside Georgetown Royal Rangers in the first semifinal, whilst Essequibo Eagles made light work of Jai Hind Jaguars in the other semifinal.

Essequibo Eagles team will be selected from the followingplayers: Bhesham SeepersaudCaptain

Ramesh Narine - Vice Captain LatchmikantNarine DavenandMadadeo RitchieBishop IndarRampersaud DharmendraLakhan Linden Daniels

Player/AsstManager Rayburn Gonsalves Player/Coach ManojLall JainantilallLall Balbadar IshwarSingh RajRambarack DeopaulDrepaul DarshananLall T r e v i s S i m o n

Player/Manager

KurtJones

BarryAlphonso FazeerKhan DharamdeoLall West Bank Warriors teamwillbeselectedfrom: Seecharran Persaud Captain Ganesh Persaud - Vice Captain EionWilliams SohanBedessee SteveHaripaul SeenarineMathura Kallicharran RahimHussain RaviPersaud PatrickKhan MohamedAbidHaniff DeoramPersaud Ramtulsie Anthonyifil PatriceStuart ChanderpaulSingh Andrew Ian Budhan Player/Manager

The inaugural BMC T25 tournament got started last February with the primary purposes being to have masters cricket played in a structured manner and to unearth and develop a pool of local players to feed into Cricket West I n d i e s M a s t e r s Association (CWIMA) with players vying for international assignments including bi lateral series, tri series, quadrilateral and masters Cricket World Cup Tournaments

The long-term goals are to give retired players an avenue towards extending their playing days in meaningful ways and to promote healthier lifestyles amongcitizens.

Title sponsor Banks DIH Limited, through its Banks Beer and Maximum Vodka brands, has embraced this concept and was thrilled at the level of participation and competition throughout the

tournament and is likely to committothesecondedition BMC 2, which the organizers have promised to c o m m e n c e a l m o s t immediately following this final.

BMC-GY is proud to have initiated live streaming of local matches in Guyana and, once again, at Bourda will have prominent commentators Clyde Butts, Inderjeet Persaud, Matthew Kissoon and Mikoowanyah Yosef Yisrael calling the action with Sunil Ramlall beaming the camera works. Andrew Singh is the lead technician.

The umpires will be Linden Matthews and Mark Scott whilst indefatigable Grantley Culbard will serve asthematchreferee.

The official scorer will beRonaldoMcGarrell.

The winning team is set to pocket $300,000 while the losing finalist will receive$200,000

T h e r e a r e m a n y individual prizes and trophies up for grabs as well including the player with the most runs, wickets, highest individual score and best bowling figures.

BMC 1 is being co sponsored By David Persaud Investment Limited, WJ Enterprise, Cricket Zone USA, Panko S t e e l f a b r i c a t i o n , Nafico/Nalico, P&P Insurance Brokers, Trophy Stall, Game Xpress, Paul Archer-Loss Control & Risk Management, Timothys Motorcycle Spares, Readymix Concrete Limited, Rs53 Restobar & Lounge, Premier Insurance, w h i l e F r e e l a n c e r AdvertisingAgencyissolely responsible for the live streaming and commentary ofthematches.

Commander-in-Chief T20 Police to defend their title against GDF in Final

By Sean Devers

On day three of the Commander-in Chief T20 Inter Services cricket tournament at the Eve Leary, GDF defeated Guyana Prisons Services by 41 runs, whilePolicebeattheGuyana Fire Service by 10 wickets

Wednesday

Defending Champions Police will do battle with GDF in the Final on a date to be announced later when the Commanderin Chief is available to bowl the first ball.

Wednesday a large and vocal gathering watched in sweltering heat as Randy Wade (51), Wicket-Keeper batter Rockell Reddy (45) and Hakim David (31) spearheaded GDF to 164-4 in20overs.

GPS responded with 122 all out despite an explosive seven ball 29 with three sixes and two fours from Tyrell Peters who took 25 runs off the second over of the innings from Paul Castello but only David Wilson (23) of the other battersofferedresistance.

David Lounge, who made16withthebat,took426 including the first four wickets, and after five overs GPS were 50-4; the best power play from any team in theTournament.

In the afternoon match, GFS, led by a 65-run fourth wicket stand between Umpire Shannon Crawford and Skipper Suresh Persaud, bettered their previous highest total of 99, by reaching 108 Stephan Harris (3-11) took the first three wickets to sink GFS to 10-3.

Crawford played some handsome shot including a straightsixbeforehewasrun out 75-4, while the 39-year

old former first division player Persaud, fell four shortofscoringthefifthhalfcenturyofthistournament.

Police reached 110 without loss, Troy Benn made an unbeaten 52, his

second consecutive fifty and fifth in the tournament, w h i l e R a v i n d r a d a t Budhram who made 33, shared in the first century p a r t n e r s h i p o f t h e tournament

DespitenotwinningtitleE’bofansproudoffight

New Administration and President’s interest played big part

By Sean Devers

Essequibo lost to powerhouse and pre tournament favourites Berbice under lights at Providence in the GCB 50 Inter-County final but the many fans who turned up at Bourda and Providence and those back home in Guyanas largest County must have been proud of the fight they showed throughout the tournament.

Thethrillingcome-frombehind victory over Demerara (a feat they had failedtoachieveforjustover decades) which put them in the final and the 40-run last wicket stand in addition to Skippers Keemo Paul’s second consecutive fourwicket haul, ensured that Berbice who lost five wickets chase 100 runs, had tofightfortheirtitle.

Essequibo Coach Nankishore Andrews noted thattheunityandpassionhis played and the fight they showed was mainly due to interest and preparation s h o w b y t h e n e w Administration and especially President Deleep Singh who was present at everymatch.

“Simply put it. We are well prepared for this tournament we had four practice games home before coming to Georgetown

Essequibo Coach Nankishore Andrews.

while most of our guys have therebefore.

Essequibo previous title was under the leadership of CourtneyGonsalvesbackin 1980 it was also the last time they time beat Demerara

Four-wicket hauls by Ronsford Beaton and Paul bowled Essequibo to rare intercountywin

“Everyone was elated it was a joyful moment and the Confidence is high in the camp” Coach Andrewssaidyesterdayjust beforethestartofthefinal

“Ithinkourbattinginthe middle need to do better I amworkingonthat.

Today we saw that again

but we never give-up. The last wicket partnership Antony Adams and Garfield Phillips and later Keemo wickets, proved that” Said theCoach.

“Weneedmorecricketat clublevelandmorecoaches. The geography is huge and has in past affected the playing of two days cricket but all of the eight area committees need to lend support to help finds was to counter I dont believe its as big a challenge as its made out to be” Coach Andrews continued.

He thanked the fans who from as far as the Essequibo Coast to the support his team.

Coach Moore elated with B’ce performance Kudos to GCB for Inter-Counties return

By Sean Devers

Last Tuesday night a powerful Berbice team successfully defended its senior Inter-County 50 overs title which they won the last time senior Inter-County cricketwasplayedin2014.

Coach of team was 38year-old former Guyana U15 left-handed batter Julian Moore, the son of Carl Moore, one of the best cricket Administrators in Guyana. Moore senior, also managed Guyana U-15, U19 and the Guyana First-

Classteams.

When Julian was selected as Manager and Assistant Coach for the Guyana Jaguars in the last two rounds of the CWI Regional First class Tournament in 2020, he joined his father as the only father/son pair to manage a GuyanaSeniorteam.

Fast forward to October 18, 2022, the level 3 Coach from Tucber Park in New Amsterdam on debut as senior Inter-County was in the final of GCBs inter

county tournament under lights at the Providence Stadium.

Coach Moore reflected on his first win as Berbice SeniorCoach.

“I thought the guys did exceptionally well, we have a very strong unit but at the end of theday youve stillgot togooutthereandplaygood cricket which I thought we didreallywell.

To come out and dominate for the most parts andtohaveyoursenior (Continued

Skipper Suresh Persaud shared in a 61-run stand with Crawford before missing his fifty by 4 runs. (Sean Devers photo)

The Benn’s appeal for LBW when Shannon Crawford missed a flick off Stephan Sankar who had 3-11 for Police. (Sean Devers photo)

Region 1 Commander, Shaw, hands over gear to Yarakita and other communities donated by GFF

GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U17 League West Demerara FA

Eagles hammer Pouderoyen to maintain unbeaten form; Bell West trounce Uitvlugt to register first win

Commander of Regional Police Division # 1, Senior Superintendent Himnauth Sawh along with Deputy Commander A. Fredericks; Subordinate Officer in charge of Yarakita Police Station, Corporal 23587 Williams; Corporal 21293 Dolphin; and other ranks on Tuesday afternoon last (October 18th) engaged residentsandmembersofthe Yarakita Police Youth Group, in sports activities at the Yarakita Sports Club Ground,NorthWestDistrict.

T h e C o m m a n d e r highlighted that the Guyana Police Force will continue to partner with all stakeholders to ensure that youths participate in constructive

activities that will benefit t h e i r r e s p e c t i v e communities.

Deputy Commander Fredericks who shared brief remarks endorsed the s e n t i m e n t s o f t h e Commanderandencouraged the youths to support the Police as they work together for the greater good of the community

Following the exchanges which included some sports activities,CommanderShaw and the team handed over football gear which was donated by the Guyana Football Federation to support the Youths in Ya r a k i t a a n d o t h e r communities.

Whilst expressing

gratitude to Commander Shaw and his team for distributing the donated gear on behalf of the GFF, its President Wayne Forde reiterated his and the Federations commitment to seeing the hinterland regions of Guyana have equitable access to equipment and s t r u c t u r e d f o o t b a l l programmes as well as developmental resources Just last month, the GFF f o r m a l i s e d t h e appointment of an IMC to run the game for the next 12 months in the Barima Waini Football Association with the aim of formally becoming the 10th Regional Association of the Guyana FootballFederation.

Eagles hammer Pouderoyen to maintain unbeatenform;BellWesttrounceUitvlugtto registerfirstwin

handed Pouderoyen their first loss of the league,havingwontheirpreviousthree.

Last Tuesday Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson MP was in Linden to update the Mackenzie Sports Clubs Executive about the work which will start within one months time, towards a makeover of the lone main sports facility in the mining town.

Armed with Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, Minister Ramson, after an opening brief, fielded questions from members of the MSC Executive which included its President Avery Trim and General Secretary Joseph Chapman among others.

The governments chief sports points man opened his talk where members of

the public also converged at the MSC Lounge, saying he wasinLindentoupdatethem with regards advancing the upgrade of the MSC ground, which will be followed with thebuildingwhichshouldbe financed by a grant from China later in the year to do the structural repairs work, which will make the MSC one of three modern sports facilities in Guyana as promised by President Dr IrfaanAli.

Ramsonreported,“Allof the requirements have been satisfied, now I also want you to know you are also c h a r g e d w i t h a responsibility, and that responsibility is to provide the best possible facility for thepeopleofLindentoo.”

The MSC ground will be upgraded to that of the NationalStadiumwithallthe underground pipes and flood drainage, all catchment basins, herringbone and perforated pipes etc. All of that will amount to approximately$200M.

The flood lights, the current estimates are about $360Mto$370MfortheICC standardlights.

Being specific, Ramson said concerning the ground preparationwhichwillbethe first set of work at the MSC “…that would cost, just the equipment alone about US$50,000. The project in relation to the work is about US$1M, we are just concludingtheprocurement (Continued on page 25)

AhelmettrickfromShakeelKingwasthe rockonwhichEaglesFCofStewartvillebuilt their victory by a huge 7-2 margin over Pouderoyen when the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) leg of the GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power, Under 17 Intra Association League continued at the Leonora Track & Field Facility, Leonora, West Coast Demerara on Saturdayafternoonlast.

In the process of recording their fourth win in as many matches, the Eagles FC

And it was King who was royal in his performance on the day, banging in four goals.

He was ably supported with a goal apiece from teammates, Alfie James, Zedane Moore, and Jhonatan Jesus. Pouderoyen got their goals from Teon Kennedy and David Williams.

Intheotherclash,BellWestnotchedtheir firstwinoftheleaguebyrecordingasolid6-1 win over Uitvlugt Warriors which suffered their third loss in as many matches. More matchesarescheduledforthisweekend.

Eagles FC goal scorers from right, Alfie James, Shakeel King, Jhonatan Jesus, and Zedane Moore.

MinisterRamsonannouncesrehabilitationworkto startatMackenzieSportsClubGroundwithinthe nextmonth,followingmeetingwithMSCexecutive

Commander of Regional Police Division # 1, Senior Superintendent Himnauth Sawh along with other members of his team hands over the donated gear to a Yarakita Rep. in the presence of youths of the community.

Allicock touch gloves with GOA, GBA on treatment in Paraguay

By Rawle Toney

Keevin Allicock, known as one of the countrys most promising boxers, took his fight outside the ring, where he traded punches with the G u y a n a O l y m p i c Association (GOA) and particularly the Guyana BoxingAssociation(GBA).

The Olympian went into a tirade on his social media platform Facebook calling forhimselfandotherathletes to be afforded basic, yet fundamentalprivileges.

Competing at his second South American Games where, just like in 2018, he finished with a bronze, Allicocksufferedchestpains and had to seek medical attention at a hospital in Asunción,Paraguay

Guyanadidnotattendthe prestigious continental games with medical personnel and as such, Allicock before being hurried off to the hospital by summoned Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), had received assistance from doctors attached to the Argentina delegation.

It was later reported by Guyanas Chef de Mission to the South American Games, Attorney at Law Keavon Bess, that Allicock was dehydrated to the extent that even his bones were lacking fluids, which caused pain in the chest and difficulty in breathing.

However, contrary to Bess report,Allicock said he was diagnosed with Rhabdomyolysis (often calledrhabdo).

According to research, rhabdo is a serious medical condition that can be fatal or result in permanent disability

Rhabdo occurs when damaged muscle tissue releases its proteins and electrolytes into the blood. These substances can damage the heart and k i d n e y s a n d c a u s e permanent disability or even death.

“I am taking this opportunity to reiterate that just as much as we (athletes) undertake stringent preparationstogiveourallto medal at these games, similarly, measures have to be put in place to ensure our safety and well being,” Allicocksaidinastatement.

Allicock said while he had suffered from injuries in the past, this time was different,mentioningthathis body reacted in a way that madehimhelpless.

“I wish this on none of my colleague athletes and it is why I am making this statement to let all the relevant persons know better mustbedone.”

While taking shots at the GOA, the 23 year old pugilist took a swing at the GBA, which is headed by Steve Ninvalle, the countrys

DirectorofSport.

“I have been thrown into the lions den many times before by my own boxing association- something I am unafraid to mention. I have grown accustomed to it, but this should not be so. Rather, I should have a healthy relationship with the executive body of the a s s o c i a t i o n w h o s e responsibility I fall under as anamateurathlete,”Allicock stated.

Since his return from Paraguaythisweek,Allicock saidheisyettohearfromthe GBA and GOA presidents about his well being “I came home with a Bronze medal. If not a word of congratulations, at least ask aboutmyhealth.”

GBA RESPONDS

Meanwhile, the GBA in a release said they were regrettablyforcedtorespond to Allicocks comments, while adding that it is lamentable that Allicock opted to utilise the public space rather than the internal mechanisms, and channels that are certainly afforded to him to ventilate any issue linkedwiththeassociation.

In light of these comments, the GBAwent on to explain that Cuban coach Franciso Roldan, who was a vitalcoginthepreparationof the boxers before their departure, had documented that Allicock only attended 16 of the maximum 43

FLASH BACK! Following his Youth Commonwealth Games silver medal performance, GOA president KA Juman-Yassin and Keevin Allicock sealed the deal of financial support from the Guyana Olympic Association with a symbolic hand-shake. Also in photo, GBA president Steve Ninvalle.

training sessions, which equates to an attendance rate of 37% “Which certainly isn’t ideal ahead of such an i m p o r t a n t n a t i o n a l assignment, and possibly warrantsnon-selection.”

T h e G B A s a i d Desmond Amsterdam attended 35 of the 43 sessions at a rate of 81 3%, w h i l e C o l i n L e w i s recorded an attendance rate of 58 1% after attending 25 ofthe43sessions

“Mr Allicock has had a history of such indiscipline which in February of this year forced the GBA executive to remove him from Guyanas team preparing for the American Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Elite Continental Championships,” the GBA statementsaid

Apart from highlighting

a series of missteps by Allicock, some of which warranted him being pulled from national duty, the GBA pointed out that, “In the last decadeMrAllicockhasbeen provided more resources than any other local boxer and was availed access to every major international tournament in the world. This underlines the fact that the GBA has/is leaving no stoneunturnedrelatingtohis developmentinthesport.”

The GBA said while it concedes that the lack of a medical practitioner and physiotherapist at the c h a m p i o n s h i p w a s unfortunate, this aberration was a reality lived and incurred by each local association that was represented and not simply a blemish or culpability of the boxingfraternity

“Emotions are a useful servant but a terrible master The GBA is certainly opposed to going back and forth on this issue which has many movable parts, and that gives way and caters to massignorance,”GBAsaid.

The local boxing association said theyre in the process of launching a f o r m a l i n t e r n a l investigation into the intricacies and details surrounding the entire episode to find a solution, which is not insulated from facts

“We also remain c o m m i t t e d t o t h e development of the sport, and working with all stakeholders to forge a sustainable pathway for the advancement of the discipline,” the statement said.

Thestoriedrivalrybetweenthe leadingtrackandfield,cyclingand swimming secondary schools in Linden, Christianburg Wismar Secondary (CWSS) Multi” and arch rivals Mackenzie High School (MHS) are at it again for bragging rights when this years trackandfieldeventsconcludethe 2022 championships at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground startingat9.00hrsthismorning.

Coming into todays track events, there are over fifty races carded. This follows the field eventsonWednesdaywhichended with reigning overall champions

CWSS slightly in the lead on 344 points from MHS with 339, Wisburg Secondary on 210, New Silvercity Secondary (NSS) with 195, Linden Foundation Secondary (LFS) 160, Harmony Secondary 141, Kwakwani Secondary 115, Marcia Craig Secondary 58 and Linden TechnicalInstitutewith37.

G T U L i n d e n S p o r t s

Committee Chairman Mr Swain Ross informed that now his Committeeisbeingallowedtofind its feet seeing that the COVID-19 Pandemic had curtailed its activitiesuntilnow

While the Sports Committee was elected in November 20121, Ross took up that position in May ofthisyearandhasanalmostnew sports body to take on the massive taskonensuringDistrict10(Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani) remains thetopdistricthavingtherecordof most championships over the yearsatNationals.

However, his role as

Chairman was only affected in May this year because that term ended after the GTU Teachers Conference

Looking at their preparations ahead of this years championships

he said that the hype has been raised from the inter house sports among the schools in the region and that intensity is being taken to thisinterschoolschampionshipsat the primary and secondary levels.

He expects keen and stiff competition from the various secondary schools today, mainly MHS and CWSS and also Wisburg, Linden Foundation and New Silvercity, but not ruling out theotherschools.

However, the fact is CWSS and MHS have been consistently the schools to beat at these perennialchampionships.

This cannot be denied since two of the countrys leading coaches Johnny Gravesande coaches Mackenzie Hugh athletes and Moses Pantlitz controls athletes from the Multi School and they have been producing some of the top athletes at the national level for someyearsnow

In the Teachers Championship CWSS topped with 99 points beating LFS on 66, LTI 57 placed third, MHS 52, Harmony 42, NSSS 41, Ituni 20, St Aidans 15, Kwakwani nine and Wisburg on sixpoints.

GMR&SC aims for South Dakota circuit to be Caribbean’s best facility -November12-13RaceofChampionssetfornewtrack

By Rawle Toney Motor racing enthusiasts in Guyana and those gracing these shores for the Ignite Race of Champions will be greeted by an extended South Dakota Circuit; one which the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) believes, completion, will be one of thebestintheCaribbean.

The Caribbeans top drivers and their high-speed machines will invade Guyana November 12 13, for the event that will culminate motor racing activities in the Region for 2022.

However, this year will be the start of the facilityenhancing campaign by the GMR&SC to make South Dakota the Mecca of motor racing in the entire Caribbean.

“The new track will call for more skill,” said Mark Vieira, one of the most popularnamesinlocalmotor racing, who also sits as a committee member of the GMR&SC.

Vieira, still a competitor and former Caribbean Champion, says the track, which now covers 1.6 miles, is “very technical… it’s going to be a more flowing track.”

“We estimate that it is going to take a Group Four car maybe one minute, 20 seconds(1:20).Beforeitwas 34 seconds. So theres going

GMR&SC Committee Member Gavin GuyadinGMR&SC Committee Member Mark Veiera

to be a lot more movement. So were looking at races taking maybe 12 minutes instead of six. So people will have a chance to warm the tires up properly before they start pushing their cars,” Vieirasaid.

He added that there will be more need for speed, while also pointing out, “We have a track with a lot more angulation which the track goes up and down at certain places. We have apex turns whichmeansyouturninlate, then you come more on the inside.

So, I think it s going to make a big difference in racing.”

“Its 42 feet wide which will be one of the widest in the Caribbean; It has the longest straight in the

Caribbean which is a half mile. Cars like mine in Group 4 should be up to around 160 miles per hour and the 600CC bikes should be the same thing,” Vieira said.

With the Bushy Park circuitinBarbadosreceiving Grade Three certification from the motor racing global governing body, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Vieira said GMR&SC will aim for Grade Two accreditation, at least, upon the first phase of completionofthenewtrack.

This, he mentioned, will allow for Formula racing to be accommodated at South Dakota.

According to the FIA, there is 51 Grade Two circuits for a total of 58

layoutsasofAugust2022.

Circuits holding Grade Two certification may host e v e n t s i n v o l v i n g Automobiles of Groups D (FIA International Formula) and E (Free formula) with a weight/power ratio of between1and2kg/hp.

“We have everything basically; we have the space to do it. If you look at this track, we have tons of runoff. We went along with the guidelines that FIA gave to us to the T,” the famous driversaid.

Meanwhile, Gavin G u y a d i n , a n o t h e r Committee Member and competitor,reasonedthatthe overall goal is to “Achieve total experience, the fan experience we hope to achieve an all inclusive

facility, where you can come from the airport and come straight to the track and you have a room and a car ready for you to drive; that is our visionandourgoal.”

G O V E R N M E N T SUPPORTLAUDED

While both Vieira and Guyadin did not highlight the cost of the expansion, theyhavepraisedthelikesof Trinidad trucking company, Junior Sammy and the Government of Guyana, especially,fortheirinputinto makingtheprojectareality

Amongst the discipline listedbyPresidentIrfaanAli, which he said will be t a r g e t e d b y h i s Administration in their push to make Guyana the sport tourism hub of the Caribbean, motor racing,

Hibernia Strikers aim for success at Prime Minister’s T20 softball cup

Hibernia Strikes are aiming for success at the f o r t h c o m i n g P r i m e MinistersSoftballCupunder the auspices of the

GeorgetownSoftballCricket League Inc. The three-day extravaganza is set for November 11-13 and teams areexpectedfromNewYork, Florida, Canada and across Guyana.

Three male and one female category: for the men Legends (Over-50), Masters (Over-40)andOpen(RoundArm) and eight teams will comprise in each category while four ladies sides will bevyingforhonours.

Captain of Hibernia

StrikersSeeramRamkissoon stated that since they registered, his players have intensifiedtheirpreparations and is confident that success isamustattheevent.

“We are confident of winning the competition,” Ramkissoon declared Hibernia Strikers will be featuring in the Masters category

He is assured that their hard works will pay great dividendsaswell

“I am anticipating stiff competition but we have to go out there and play our best cricket; obviously other teams coming to dominate but we have an

opportunity to win this big tournament,” Ramkissoon, stylist right handed batsman,mentioned

Like the previous five years, the tournament is o r g a n i s e d i n collaboration with the Office of the Minister and Ministry Culture, Youth and Sports

Quizzed on his teams plans to make an early impression, Ramkissoon, outlined it is about clever cricket and try to hold the advantage throughout the game

“We going to play good cricket as I said the guys are anxious to get on the field

and we have tons of plans that we going to execute from ball one,” Ramkissoon related.

Recently, the President of the League Ian John informed that each winning team for the male will receive $600,000 and a trophy, while the ladies champion side is set to collect $200, 000 and a trophy John further notified that other attractive prizes areupforgrabs.

Ramkissoon mentioned that Hibernia Strikers will be participating in the upcoming Essequibo Softball Cricket League over 40 competition and

particularly their November meeting,washighlighted.

“ W i t h o u t t h e Government of Guyanas initiative and partnership with us; the whole One Guyana initiative and without the Presidents input, this would not have been a reality,”Guyadinsaid.

He explained that “The most expensive ingredient (for the track) was provided and subsidised by the Government and without that, we wouldnt have been here.

So the vision is shared between the club, between the executives, the membership of the club and also, at a broader spectrum, theGovernmentofGuyana.”

Over the past 50 years, theGMR&SCsaidtheyhave transformed the automotive industry in Guyana through thestrategiccreationofhighlevel race meets and events which cut across various demographics: status, religion, gender and age, attracting more than 30,000 patrons in a single space for oneday.

The highly anticipated annual November Race of Champions, is said to be the single-largest sporting event that is consistent, well managed, and attracts a steady following and equal investment, and is also the GMR&SCs marquee event on their local motor-racing calendar

Seeram Ramkissoon

will use it as part of their preparations

“Great chance for our guys to see where we can geteverythingright;yes,we

wanttowinthiscompetition too but our main aim now is to do well at the Prime Ministers Cup tournament,” Ramkissoonpromised

Guyana banking on youth as Foo, Barnwell overlooked Ebo’s Quinton Sampson only new face in Super50 spot

By Sean Devers

At22,battingall-rounder QuintonSampsonistheonly new face named in the Guyana Harpy Eagles team to try to win their first Super50 title since 2005 when they travel to Trinidad to begin their campaign on October 31 against the Windward Islands at the QueensParkOval.

Sampson, who lives in Parika, had a good debut for runners up Essequibo with his pugnacious 85 a g a i n s t C h a m p i o n s Berbice being his stand out performance.

Sampson, one of six players from the Essequibo team who represent Police in the GCAs cricket, is one of three Essequibo players selected for the Regional Super50.

Sampson joins off spinnerClydeButts,left-arm spinner Neil McGarell and Wicketkeeper Kenneth Wong as some of the Guyanese who never represented Guyana at youth levelbut was selectedfor the senior team since Regional y o u t h c r i c k e t w a s inauguratedin1966.

ButtsandMcGarellwent ontoplayTestCricket.

The Selectors have gone for young players as only Skipper Leon Johnson who is 35, Veerasammy Permaul at 33 and Anthony Bramble 31,isover30.

There is no place in the squadforChrisBarnwelland JonathonFoo.

The Squad, which will haveitsfirstpracticetodayat Providence, includes eight

p l a y e r s w h o h a v e represented the West Indies inODIcricket.

OnlySampson,Bramble, Chanderpaul, Smith, Imlach and Savory have not played Internationalcricket.

GuyanaSuper50squad Tevin Imlach, Kemol

Savory, Quinton Sampson, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Anthony B r a m b l e , R o m a r i o Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Kevin Sinclair, Nail Smith, Kemo Paul, Leon Johnson andVeerasammyPermaul.

Gauff reaches WTA Finals for first time

AFP-CocoGauffqualifiedfortheWTA FinalsforthefirsttimeonWednesday,along with French player Caroline Garcia, who willbemakinghersecondappearanceinthe event.

Gauff,18,andGarciajoinworldnumber one Iga Swiatek, Ons Jabeur and Jessica Pegula in the singles draw for the finals in Fort Worth, Texas from October 31 to November7.

Gauff will also play in the doubles with partner Pegula, making them the first Americans to take part in theWTAFinals in both singles and doubles since Serena and VenusWilliamsin2009.

At18years,239daysoldattheendofthe

event,Gauffwillbetheyoungesttotakepart since Maria Sharapova reached the semifinalsin2005,aged18and208days.

Gauff, who moved into the last 16 of the Guadalajara Open with a straights-set win over Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Wednesday, has had a stellar 2022, winning three titles andreachingthesemi-finalsoftheUSOpen.

Garcia, 29, returns to the finals for the first time since 2017 when she reached the semi-finals.

The top seed in Guadalajara, Paula BadosaofSpain,retiredinthesecondround on Wednesday having lost the first set to two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka.

T20WorldCup:SriLankaandNetherlands qualifyforSuper12s,heartbreakforNamibia

SportsMax - Sri Lanka beat the Netherlands by 16 runs to reach the T20 World Cup Super 12 stage and the Dutch also qualified after the United Arab Emirates brokeNamibia’shearts.

Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka suffered a shock defeat to Namibia in their f i r s t g a m e o f t h e tournament, but avoided an early exit by responding with victoriesover the UAE andNetherlands.

A brilliant knock of 79 from 44 balls by man of the match Kusal Mendis enabled Sri Lanka to post 162 6 at Kardinia Park on T h u r s d a y, C h a r i t h Asalanka also chipping in with31

The Netherlands fell short on 146 9 in reply,

s p i n n e r s Wa n i n d u Hasaranga (3 28) and Maheesh Theekshana (2 32) stepping up when Sri Lanka needed them, with opener Max O’Dowd’s unbeaten71invain

That left the Dutch’s fate out of their hands, but UAE came to their rescue by dramatically securing their first T20 World Cup win to knock Namibia out inGeelong Muhammad Waseem top scored with 50 and captain Chundangapoyil Rizwan made 43 not out in UAE’s148-3.

A victory would have seen Namibia advance with Sri Lanka, but they were beaten by seven runs after being restricted to 141 8

David Wiese’s half century in a stand of 70 with Ruben Trumpelmann looked to have put Namibia on course to qualify, but he was out 55 in an excellent final over fromWaseem Group A winners Sri Lanka face the runners-up inGroupBintheirSuper12 opener at Bellerive Oval on S u n d a y, w h i l e t h e N e t h e r l a n d s f a c e Bangladesh at the same venueinHobartadaylater Scores: Sri Lanka 162 for 6 (Mendis 79, Asalanka 31, van Meekeren 2-25, de L e e d e 2 3 1 ) b e a t Netherlands 146 for 9 (O’Dowd 71*, Edwards 21, H a s a r a n g a 3 2 8 , Theekshana 2-32) by 16 runs.

MSC executives question announcement by Sport Minister that NICIL has transferred ownership to government

W i t h m a s s i v e development to begin in another four weeks time at the Mackenzie Sports Club, where work on the MSC ground will begin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson (Jr.) has i n f o r m e d t h e M S C Executive body that the facility is now the property of the Government of Guyana.

Speaking directly to those gathered at a special meeting last Tuesday at the MSC in Linden, which included President of the MSC Avery Trim and General Secretary Joseph Chapman, the Minister with responsibility for sport, accompanied by Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, announced that the multi purpose facility, probably the only one of its kind that caters for all types of sports and games in Guyana, is n o w o w n e d b y Government. He informed that the MSC, which was identified as one of three chosen such facilities to be upgraded; the others are in New Amsterdam, Berbice and Anna Regina in Essequibo, they at a c o m b i n e d c o s t o f approximately $1 4bln attached to make them internationalsportscentres.

inister Ramson

explainedthatthepowerwas always vested in NICIL as a state owned company and while they might have met previously with the MSC concerning the ownership of it, he pointed out that there was a change in leadershipatNICIL.

Responding to General Secretary of the MSC, Joseph Chapman, who queried that development saying that NICIL in 2019 when they met the MSC Executives were unclear who owned the MSC But Minister Ramson informed: “They left and had to do their research and they had to advise themselves so when they came to find out, they would have wanted to ascertain what documents you possessed which you wereunabletoprovide Is that correct?”, for which Chapman nodded in agreement.

MSC executives said that a fire in 2012 had destroyed several important documents pertaining to the ownership of the MSC, w h e n t h e L i n m i n e Secretariat went up in flames during a protest which occurred on the Mackenzie /Wismar Bridge againstproposedincreasein electricity in tariffs in the town

The GS then asked

Minister Ramson: “Why would NICIL after finding out that they have ownership of the MSC in April, 2022 andtheyaregoingtotransfer it to the government, not seek to talk to the executives oftheclub?

The retort from the government official was, “Well maybe you should speaktothemaboutthat.”

Chapman then enquired of the MSCs Executive Committees role, now that Government would be holding power over its operations, if the MSC will remainamembers club?

“I have not thought that far ahead of your members club, because I dont think somuchaboutyourclub Thats yourclub

You guys have to decide how you want to run your organization, your organization is here to help managethefacility.

Thats what you have been doing, Right? Isnt that correct?” asked Minister Ramson.

According to Minister Ramson, “We are looking to build strong relationships, strong partnerships but we know we cant do this (alone) so very important as well is that we believe the people of Linden need the best possible facility that is available.”

Quinton Sampson, watched by Bramble, faces Permaul in his 85 at Bourda. (Sean Devers photo)

Leon Johnson misses a reverse sweep during his attractive 51 in a losing effort at Bourda. (Sean Devers photo)

Former Guyanese Pan Am Karate Champ visits grading examinations

Over 40 students promoted

Participants of the grading exams take a photo op following a successful event.

Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon A Tai, 10th Dan, examined 44 students for kyu grades and 4 students for Dan levels on Sunday lastattheYMCAThomasLands.

The exams started at 10:00hrs andlastedtwoandahalfhours.

Assisted by Shihan Amir Khouri - 7th Dan and following the COVID guidelines, the students performances earned continuous applause from the parents and spectators.

After the grading examinations were finished, Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon A Tai also presented Dan certificates to the successful students of the previous examinationinApril2022.

Asuccessful day resulted in the followingpromotions:

Promoted to 3rd Dan - Andy Madray, Sam Reddy (Albion Berbice)

Promoted to 2nd Dan - Jermey Hargobin(LandofCanaan)

Promoted to 1st Dan Maheshwar Dyasindoo (Land of Canaan) and Lemuel Scott (YMCA)

10th kyu to 8th kyu - Jahmar Bullen, Natalia Persaud, Tyler Spooner, Aryan Shiwdas, Virendra Krishna, Lucas Spooner, Alisha Moideen, Nia Richards, Monasseh Bacchus, Rachael Seymour, Jason Richards

10th kyu to 7th kyu - Josiah Clinken, Nyalsha Beaton and

Danny Parbhu 8th kyu to 7th kyu

Raheem Josiah, Jeevika Tiwari, Tremiyah Lake, Marquis Ferreira, Mikhail Tobin, Shreya Persaud, Erik Lynch, Shivendra Brijbhukan.

7th kyu to 6th kyu Ashton C h a n g , Z a n e E l c o c k , Christopher Cooblall, Aden Persaud, Daniel Mciver and Sachin Mulchand

7th kyu to 5th kyu - Lukas Singh, Gerrett Lalljee, Tristan

MorenoandIsaacRamsarran

6th kyu to 5th kyu- Shivanna Brijbhukan, Simkhael Levans, RaydenAustin,AlgernonSealyand EvonRose 5th kyu to 4th kyu- Shivraj Brijbhukan, Clarissa Scott and CharisseScott

4th kyu to 3rd kyu- Samara Siland

3rd kyu to 2nd kyu- Theron Lake, Zareezyah Levans and TeshanaLake

RainthreatensasAustralialaunchT20WorldCupdefence

AFP - Rain threatens to derail theTwenty20WorldCupwhenbig guns enter the fray this weekend, with Australia’s opener against New Zealand and an India v Pakistanblockbusterbothatriskof beingwashedout.

Parts of Australia are facing a third straight La Nina weather event with a wetter-than-average summer expected, and downpours are forecast for Sydney and Melbourne from Friday through to nextweek.

Aaron Finch’s Australia begin their title defence against New Zealand at a sell out Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday evening — a repeat of the 2021 final in Dubai where Mitchell Marsh’s unbeaten 77 powered them to an eight-wicket win and maidencrown.

ButtheBureauofMeteorology is forecasting a “very high (90 percent) chance of showers” and

potentially thunderstorms, with no reservedaysforgroupgames.

They only come into play for thesemi-finalsandfinal.

It looks equally gloomy for Sunday in Melbourne where India facePakistaninahotly-anticipated clashwithupto100,000fansinthe cavernous MCG and tens of millionsmoretuningintowatch.

A minimum of five overs a side is required to constitute a match.

The weather could also cause havoc in Hobart where games are scheduled for Friday and Sunday, although England’s opener against Afghanistan in Perth on Saturday has a fine weather forecast

Australia have a golden opportunity to become the first back to back T20 world champions, enjoying the advantage of being the only winners of cricket’s shortest

formattohaveacrackatdefending thetitleathome.

But they begin their campaign on the back of a 2-0 series loss to EnglandthismonthandwithFinch admitting they were “tired” after a gruellingbuild-up.

Despitethetoughlead-in,pace spearhead Pat Cummins insisted they were better placed after defying the odds to win last year’s title.

‘Betterprepared’

“I think in some ways we are even better prepared,” he said this week. “We have played a lot more and we have drawn on the experiencesfromlastyear

“In saying that, T20 is a very fickleformat.

You look around and there are probably four or five teams that realisticallycouldwinit.”

Kane Williamson’s New Zealand enter the competition in mixed form, having lost to South

Africa and Pakistan, but recently enjoying victories against BangladeshandPakistan.

Fast bowler Tim Southee is under no illusions that Australia will be a tough opponent, should theirgamegoahead.

“Youcan’tgivethemasniff

Theyareaclassside,”hesaid.

England are in the same six team group as Australia and New Zealand and loom as potentially their biggest challenger, having dominated white ball cricket in recentyears

Jos Buttler’s men suffered a blow on Wednesday when pace bowler Reece Topley was ruled out of the tournament with an ankle injury, with fellow left armerTymalMillspromotedfrom his previous status as travelling reserve

They were already without injured star batsman Johnny Bairstow, with only two teams

from each of the two groups makingthesemi-finals.

India head into their clash with Pakistan as world number one, but withoutanymajorsilverwaresince their 2013 Champions Trophy triumph.

They are without injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and key all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, but skipper Rohit Sharma said the squadwasstrongenoughtocope.

“The bowlers, who have come with us in the World Cup, have played enough matches,” he said, with Mohammed Shami takingBumrah’splace.

Pakistan are fresh from winning a T20 tri series in New Zealand and welcome back pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, who recoveredfromakneeinjury

“The boys are confident,” saidskipperBabarAzam