Kaieteur News

Norton says Opposition

under no obligation to reveal its policy advisors on oil sector Mother killed on her way to collect son from school Man loses hand during street fight

needed -VPJagdeo

hazardous waste facility dangerous to human life, environment, -citizenstell p. 10 p. 13

Houston hazardous waste facility dangerous to human life, environment, EIA needed -citizens tellEAB

Residents of Houston, Raphael Singh, Danuta and Vanda Radzik, have urged the Environmental AssessmentBoard(EAB)to set aside the decision by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to waive an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a hazardous waste facility to be operated in their neighbourhood, Houston, EastBankDemerara.

Anapplicationtooperate the facility was made by Schlumberger Guyana Inc. (SLB) one of ExxonMobil’s contractors.It is expectedto treat and store hazardous waste near the Demerara River, at the old Gafoors compoundinHouston.

TheEPAinAprilthisyear exempted the project from a thorough impact assessment, a decision which was formally appealed by the three Guyanese On

September 13, 2023, the three-member EAB, chaired by Dr Mahendar Sharma hosted a Public Hearing at ParcRayne,Rahaman’sPark, East Bank Demerara (EBD), where the citizens had an opportunity to raise their concerns. This process is m a n d a t e d b y t h e Environmental Protection Act

Making presentations to this end were the project developer, the EPA and the appellants.

In their appeal of the waiver,thecitizensexplained thattheyhaveseentheirland and properties devalued and now suffer from potential risks of not only radiation exposure, but fears of fires, flooding, chemical spills, unsafe transportation accidents during movement of hazardous wastes which can go on to contaminate drains which run the villages of Houston and McDoom, EBD

Further,theypointedout that there is potential risk fromspillsduringoffloading and on loading of the waste materials to the facility, some of which are highly combustible.

The citizens therefore listed15reasonsfortheEAB to overturn the decision by theEPAfortheimpactstudy

Amongthose,theyreasoned, “The EPA has a statutory duty to require an EIA to ensure that any activity whichmaycauseanadverse effect…be assessed before such an activity should be authorized...4(1) (g) of the Act taking into account the

“ a v o i d a n c e ” a n d “precautionary” principles and any others.” This was partaofrulinghandeddown by High Court Judge Nareshwar Harnanan on December 16, 2022 with regards to the said project.

https://wwwkaieteurnewso nline com/2022/12/19/epabroke-the-law-when-iti s s u e d - p e r m i t - t oschlumberger-justicenareshwar-harnanan/ According to the appellants, “The EAB has a dutytoensureandguarantee the substantive and procedural environmental rights enshrined in the Constitution and binding humanrightstreatiessuchas Escazu These rights include: The right to a healthy environment, public participation, access to information and access to justice in environmental matters.”

Theythereforenotedthat both the EPA and the EAB must err on the side that affords the widest possible protection of constitutional rights and refer to the guidance of international humanrightsbodiesincases ofambiguity

Furthermore,theyshared that, “EPA’s April 16, 2023 Notice does not provide reasonsforitsdetermination

that the storage and recycling of contaminated water and equipment at the Facilitywillnotsignificantly impacttheenvironment.”

That Notice from the regulator also failed to explain the reasons for determiningthattheFacility

would not significantly impact the cultural heritage and landscape of what has traditionally been a residential area, the citizens contested.

They believe that the EPA has failed to consider reasonable alternative locationsfortheRadioactive and Source Storage Facility, itsmudplant,workshopand drybulkfacilitytoareaswith fewer risks to communities, schools, residences, the fishing industry, health centres, a congested East BankHighway Singh and the Radziks were keen to note, “While there have been other commercial projects at Houston, the redevelopment of Houston as an industrial baseforoilandgasoperators

is unprecedented and will have significant impacts on the environment, human h e a l t h , c u l t u r a l characteristics, geographic areaandlandscape.”

They told the EAB in a jointpresentation,“Whatwe have in Guyana is the cart before the horse State agencies including the EPA haveallowedtheoilandgas industry in Guyana to operate largely unfettered in violation of our own environmentallaws.”

Furthermore,thecitizens saidtheirconstitutionalright to a healthy environment, public participation, access to information and access to justice in environmental matters must be respected through the necessary baseline surveys, technical

expertise,specificprotective regulations, transparency, good governance and necessary enforcement for theoilandgasindustry

SLBoperations

According to project documents seen by this newspaper, Schlumberger GuyanaInc.(SLB)saiditisa registered contractor in Guyana and provides oil field services to the oil and gas industry Specifically, Schlumberger Guyana Inc. provides upstream services with four primary areas of focus to include well construction, reservoir production systems, digital andintegrationandreservoir performance.

SLB said radioactive sourcesareusedintheoil

Continuedonpage9

Danuta Radzik

From left: Chairman of the EAB, Dr. Mahendar Sharma with EAB members, Dr. Garvin Cummings and Joslyn McKenzie.

Vanda Radzik

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

Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Venezuela’s referendum

Itcertainlyisacleverdevelopment,thatreferendum by Venezuela on its spurious claims to Guyana’s territory. Whatisbeingheldoutasareferendumis really a ruse. It is a ruse to rile up its citizens already experiencingsevereeconomicdistress. Itisarusetomake struggling,andunhappy,Venezuelans,castafierceglanceat Guyana’s Essequibo and wonder why… It is a ruse by calculating Venezuelan politicians to shift the attention of theircitizensfromtheplightsoftheircountry,andgetthem tothinkofallthatcouldbe.

This referendum announced by the Venezuelans have less to do with boosting its position in the court of internationalopinion,andmoretodowithplayingwiththe mindsofitshard-hitpeoples. Thisiswhatrulingpoliticians dowhentheyarecorneredandhavenowheretoturnorgo. By placing the disputed territorial issue on a referendum footing, the first objective is to manipulate the bulk of the ordinary Venezuelan citizenry to a specific state of mind. Then,itistowhipthemintoafrenzyagainstGuyanaforits readinesstoholdontowhatisrightfullyitsown. Next,itis tochanneltheirgazeatGuyana’sdeterminationtoresistany and all encroachments of Venezuela, and thus wrongfully denythemoftheirmuch-neededtreasures.

InsidethefertilemindsofVenezuelanpoliticians,there is full awareness of the toughness of the circumstances of their citizens due to sanctions that have crippled their national economy By pointing to vast and disputed territorythatisrichinprospects,somanycompellingbaits are dangled. First, and according to the schemes of those behindthereferendum,itislookatGuyanaandthatispartof the sacred birthright of Venezuelans, then just study the presentconditionsunderwhichwelive.Second,togetthe Venezuelans worked up, this referendum ruse manoeuvres those who are naïve and gullible in the Venezuelan population to what is going on in Guyana by leaps and bounds, with exploration and production announcements makingtheroundsalmostdaily

Inotherwords,thereareallthoserichesovertherein Guyana,andtheyallbelongtostrugglingandstarvingand sinkingVenezuelans. Unsaid,atleastinthepublicsphere,is why should Guyanese prosper, while Venezuelans are forcedtoliveinthemudandmuckofpoverty Worse,and thisiswhatisembeddedinthereferendum,isthatGuyana is,forallintentsandpurposes,guiltyoftheongoingplunder and pillage of the rich assets that are part of the ancient Venezuelanheritage.

When we at this publication consider all of this that could very well be integral parts of this referendum ruse, what is reinforced, yet again, is how powerful political forces in Venezuela absorb what is happening in Guyana, and craft responses to ensure that their people appreciate howtheyarebeingcheated. Areferendumgeneratesrageat Guyana, no matter how muted, how camouflaged. A referendumforanationalcausesuchashugeterritoryfuses the people together, and makes them discard existing convictions about politicians who they believe have failed them. Thereislandtoexplore;thereisrichnessofwhatis known to be present in prodigious quantities, be it gold or timberorotherpreciousminerals.

It takes people of a particular bloodless kind not to be excitedandenergizedaboutwhatcouldbethereforthem. A referendumnotonlydragstheissuetothefrontandcenter,it alsogiveseachVenezuelanastakeinwhatismadeouttobe their lost patrimony, now being depleted by daily developments in Guyana. It is not just a lost national patrimony, but a stolen one, and one that is being parceled outandauctionedandbarteredabout,onanongoingbasis.

There is plenty beneath this Venezuelan referendum development,noneofwhichisfavourabletoGuyana. Itis, therefore, of the highest importance, the most urgent consideration,thatGuyanesepoliticiansandthesumofthe Guyanesepeople,comequicklytothefullestunderstanding ofthesignificanceofthisreferendum. AllGuyanesemust appreciatewhatthenuancedobjectivesare,thethreatsthey pose.

Reverse discrimination, is racism

DEAREDITOR,

I migrated from Guyana to the United States, thirtynineyearsago. Atthattime, theBurnhampresidencywas in full swing and as an African Guyanese, I was accustomed to Africans havingthedominanthandin Guyanesepolitics.

I must confess as an old PNC member, I was not happywiththeemergenceof the PPP as the new power player in Guyana I religiously followed all of the podcasts and social media programmes of Guyanese who are sympathetic to the opposition Unfortunately, their programmes are dominated with one issue: race. The more I looked at these shows, the angrier I became The angrier I became,themoreracistIgot.

Without realizing it, I was being indoctrinated by hate andbecomingananti-Indian in a way I never was nor wantedtobe.

Two months ago, I got intoacaraccidentandhadto be rushed to Jamaica Hospital. Atthehospital,an Indian man was pushing me on the gurney to the operatingroom.Noticingmy accent,andsmiling,heasked me “G.T”? I said yes, and he replied “no worries countryman, I got you bruda.” He brought extra pillows, water and hooked me up on Wi-Fi (there is no internet in the trauma center). I spent 11 hours in the trauma center so having access to my phone was a godsend. The doctor who operatedonmewasayoung Indiangirl,oldenoughtobe my grandchild. She did not

speak much, but did a magnificent job with my surgery I noticed that she wore a gold chain, with the mapofGuyanaasapendant. I asked her if she was from Guyanaandshesaidno.She said she was born in America, but her parents were from Success, ECD. Since I was originally from Plaisance, I queried her on her knowledge of Guyana, “Did you know the chimney at Chateau Margot? How about LBI sugar estate?” I wassurprisedhowmuchshe knew about Guyana for someonewhonevervisited.

At no time was there a whiff of racism. I was shocked.ThiswasnotwhatI was being told daily about “themIndianpeople”.

A month ago, I returned to Guyana for a funeral. From immigration at the

airport to sellers at the markets, I have never encountered so many Indian people since I left Guyana thirty-nine years ago. And everytime,Iwaswaitingfor the racism, I was taught to expect. It never happened. On my final night, my stepsonandIwenttothecasino. Apparently, we indulged more than my wallet could afford. When we left the casino, we went to a small restaurant and ordered fried chicken. When the food and bill came, I was short by a b o u t $ 1 0 0 0 0 0 Embarrassed,Istammeredto theIndianownerthathewill have to take out some of the chicken Realizing my plight, he bellowed “nah budhay, it’s okay - you gave ittomenexttime.Enjoy.”

UponmyreturntoNew (Continuedonpage06)

Excuse that RDC lacks capacity to clear over flowing school binleft since last term is so laughable

DEAREDITOR

,

The news item that “RDClackscapacitytoclear overflowing school bin left since last term – Region 5 Chair,”(INEWS,September 23, 2023) is such a pathetic excuse coming from the Region 5 Chair, if that’s a true story Is the Chairman for real? In the fastest growing economy in the world,aspropagandawould have it, Region 5 cannot get rid of some trash that has been lying in the bin at Fort Wellington Secondary School since last term? The Regionhasnocapacity?

Does the Region not collect trash from all households as is their function? Why not? So the RDC does not know how to do networking to access assistance for such a piddly problem? Doesn’t the RegionalOfficehavetrailers andexcavator?

It’s very sad for Guyana that this is the kind of leadership and management we have at top levels of an ongoing failed, broken, outmoded Regional System of government in need of a makeover No wonder Freddielikestosay“Guyana isnotarealcountry.”

What message do we sendtoschoolchildrenabout trash pickup and clean environments?What“habits ofmind”areweinculcating?

Blackout: Constant blackouts, I blame Ramjattan’sAFC

The constant blackouts truly create annoyance on the peoples of this country

Does this send a message to children that cleanliness is not important, that a clean environment is not important? So, you see why Guyana is a nasty place! Childrenlearninschoolthat trashremovalisnotabiggie, that we can have peaceful coexistence with trash! While the President himself regularly leads clean-up efforts in the City, the Regions could not be bothered to create sustainable designs for solid wasteremoval.SuchaThird World mindset leaves us in the dark ages, and people snicker when we make idle boaststhatwearethefastest growing economy in the world.Andwecan’tremove a small container of trash from a school yard! How aboutifRegion5isaffected by an oil spill problem, can theyhandleit?

And during the several months of holidays, where weretheRegionalEducation Officers, School Principal and Ministry people to help solve this trash problem at Fort Wellington Secondary? Where is the spirit of volunteerism from the PTA andcommunityfolkssuchas the churches and local businesses?

Any school principal whocannotmanageaschool and create a clean, healthy schoolenvironmentdoesnot

deserve that position. I have observed the same poor environment at Cummings Lodge Secondary where vines are on the fence throughout the year, and the garden area and yard are always in need of mowing. You would think they are goingfortheawardofposter child for an unkempt school environment.

And why are the authorities allowing an unsightly scrap metal business to operate so close tothatschool?

Which Ministry is responsibleforallowingthat eyesore?

It is time for the Government to pay serious attention to solid waste disposal,acquisitionoftrash bins, and maintaining clean environments through power washing of fungus from all state-owned buildings, ongoing repainting and maintenance, regular mowing of lawns using sustainable designs. Random acts of clean-up exercises are inadequate Use some of that US$214 million from the oil audit funds to invest in providing push mowers, slashers and cleanupequipment.

Let’sendthenastinessin our public buildings and environments.

Sincerely, Dr.

JerryJailall

OnthedayofMonday(18th September, 2023), the constant blackouts created muchfrustrationonourstaff at RK’s Guyana Security Services Headquarters

Despitethefactthatwehave a good quality generator for emergency power Imagine stores, businesses and citizens who do not have such a facility, their state of mind at the possible destruction of their equipment and also food stuff.

Itiseasytowanttoabuse and curse down the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and even the Government of Guyana for this obvious disease of torment and tortureinthiscountry Butis itGPL’smanagementorisit theGovernmentofGuyana’s fault!!??

ExcellencyPresidentDr Irfaan Ali, Cabinet, and

Peoples of this Land of Guyana, we deserve better and we all demand better in the service and provision of electric power Despite the headaches, the heartaches, the mental and physical torture and frustrations, at this juncture in our Guyanese society and Nation, I do not blame neither the Government nor doIblameGPL.

The GPL with their limited resources has done enormoustofixtheissuesto bring reasonable quality electricpowertothepeoples of this land. One of the bugbearsofprovisionofthis inefficient power supply is staff: unreliability of the staff, dishonesty of some staff, and it is suspected possible sabotage by certain politicalsaboteurs.

However, most of all, andshoutingasIamwriting in my mind in annoyance because all of the above could have been eliminated

as we as a people of this country could have been enjoying‘sweet’,‘luscious’, ‘delicious’ hydroelectric power The Government of His Excellency then President Bharrat Jagdeo had embarked on bringing hydro power to our country and fulfilling our electricity needs.Firstly,toourpeoples in all parts of Guyana, the variousindustriesinallparts of Guyana, and selling of electricity to neighboring countries.Andwiththisnew reliable form of electricity, we could have had an advanced style of road /highways infrastructure with the necessary toll control by an automatic systemasweknowoperates inotherdevelopedcountries andalsoasIsawinJamaica, r i g h t h e r e i n t h e Caribbean/West Indies Investors could come build the roads without any investmentsfromthe (Continuedonpage06)

Guyana’s first US$1.6B oil audit sets dangerous precedent for US$40B in bills still to be checked- APNU

Guyana’sfirstauditofoil expenditure, racked up by ExxonMobil for exploration activities in the Stabroek Block between the period 1999 and 2017, has erupted into chaos with the country nowatlossforwhatmaylie ahead.

Withtheindustryrapidly developing, with over 33 discoveries made in the Stabroek Block alone, some industry experts believe Guyana is grossly unprepared to manage the resources offshore. In fact, Guyana has been struggling tokeepapacewithitsrapidly developing petroleum industry as billions in bills submitted by Exxon and partners are yet to be reviewed, while the country is now looking to import labour to meet the human resourceshortage.

With some U$$214 million in costs flagged by a British auditor as questionable, for US$1 6 billioninbillsreviewedfor t h e E x x o n M o b i l ’s activities, the Opposition believes this has set a dangerous precedent of the reviews still to be undertaken In an invited comment earlier this week, Economic Advisor to the Opposition Leader, Elson Low told this newspaper that with the first review marred with controversy, oil companies must be taking notes to plot their futuremoveshere.

Guyana recently concluded an auction for 14 ofitsoilblockswitheightsof the spots attracting the

All Teachers are Underpaid

attentionofinvestors. In the meantim ExxonMobil and i partners have been investing billions of US-dollars to d e v e l o p t h e resources already discovered in the Stabroek Block

These costs which must be repaid by G u y a n a i n accordance with the

2016 Productio Sharing Agreeme (PSA)mustbereviewed through the audit process to ensure the country was not billed for items or services outside of that which was agreed.

A consortium was hired by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) a d m i n i s t r a t i o n t o undertake a second audit

o f t h e c o m p a n y ’s

expenses incurred between 2018 and 2020 is stilltobefinalized

The auditors were tasked with reviewing the costs racked up by the company, amounting to some US$7.3 billion. To date, the Government of Guyana(GoG)hasapproved five developments for the StabroekBlock.

Thesecarryapricetagof about US$40 billion which Guyana must scrutinize to makesureitisnotbeingover charged.

LowtoldKaieteurNews thatwiththereductionofthe costs from US$214 million to US$3 million, Guyanese arenowlefttofearwhatmay be the outcome of the audits

y e t to be undertaken.

He said, “With this audit controversy, oil companies must be wondering whether they can potentially bypass the Guyana Revenue Authority andGuyana’slaws.”

The Economist pointed out that with the British auditor flagging over US$200 million in costs as questionable from the US$1.6 billion exploration costs, Guyana could expect inflated costs amounting to billions of US-dollars from futureaudits.

More importantly, Low noted that failure by the government to contest those costs or to allow a reduction from the oil companies can deprive the country of much-needed revenue to boost the quality oflivesforitscitizens.

He added, “Accurate audits are vital to ensure Guyana can project revenue and therefore service its debts as well as deliver on development goals ”

Reversediscrimination,isracism...

Frompage04 York,Ireturnedtothesocial media sites of the race baiters.Thistime,Iwasthere not to cheer them on, but to confront them with their racistlies.

However,Idiscoveredas soon as I posted a contradictory comment on their page - they would instantly delete it These peddlers of racist bile are afraid of the truth, and intimidatedbywords.

Reversediscriminationis a term used to describe discrimination against members of a dominant or majority group, in favour of members of a minority group. In other words, it is racism when a minority group,withoutfoundationor justification,accusesanother largergroupofracism.

That is why it is called reversediscrimination.

There is a small cadre of social media people in the

DEAREDITOR, Why is the Government indulginginthepretencethat the only problem with teachers’ remuneration is that some are being paid below the minimal of the relevantscales?

How could any employer admit to the staff and public such a simple arithmeticmiscalculationby salary clerks; while at the same time complaining of poor performance in mathematics classes in schools?

In the circumstances, it may be useful for both teachers and students amongstothers,tonotesome aspects of the salary structure, which have existedsincethecolonialera and as reflected in the 2023 Budget approved by Parliament.

Scales i)The schedule in theBudgetof2023indicates 20 substantive ‘scales’ –ranging from TS1 to TS 19, then TS20 bolded as SPECIAL,butcarryingonly a MAXIMUM of $384,631.

ii) Of the earlier 19 ‘scales’, the following are subdivided:a) TS1(A) to TS1(D), but like SPECIAL, eachonlycarryaMaximum. ThesefourMaximumsrange from $85,727 to $111,957.

iii) The next higher scale consists of TS2(A), (B), and (C). To note: the Minimum of TS2(A) is

$91,603, while the Maximum of TS2(C) is $113,995, resulting in an impressive leap of $22,392.

iv) Next, while the Maximum of TS3 is $151,991, the Minimum of TS4 is $159,154 v) Not inconsistently, TS5 is constructed of the following Scales:

TS5 (A) - $176,007$190,968

(B) - $181,065$195,691 (B1) - $177,831$192,458vi)

Note the consistency amongthefollowing:

TS6 - $181,941$201,792

TS7(A) - $186,025$200,906

TS8(A) - $203,380$223,226

TS8(B) - $205,866$220,751

TS14$262,915-$296,896

TS15 -

$272,840-$292,864

Opportunity should be taken to address these palpable contradictions and tocompensateappropriately those affected (over the preceding decades), albeit with the help of the Guyana

Teachers’ Union and appropriately qualified mathematicsstudents.

In any case from the perspective of the Schedule of Salary in the Teaching Service approved in the

2023 Budget, all are underpaid.

Inthecircumstances,the riskisbeingtakentoextract from 2020 documentation whatmaywellbethecurrent categories of Teachers, but possibly subject to correction:Ts1 - Pupil Teachers;ActingTeachers TS2 - Temporary (Unqualified/Qualified) Masters

Ts3 -Temporary Qualified; Assistant Lecturer-GTI, NATI; Instructor 1 – GITC, CSHE, LTI

TS4- Non-Graduate Senior

TS5–Ts7Non-Graduate Head; Senior Master; Untrained; Non-Graduate Deputy

TS8-TS14 Trained Graduate; Non-Graduate Head; Graduate Head; Senior Assistant Master; Graduate Senior Master; DeputyHead Ts15 Chief Lecturer –CPCE, GTI, NATI, LTI, GITC;DeputyPrincipal TS16–TS18 Graduate Heads–GradesC,B,A Ts19 Graduate Head of Sixth Form Schools; Vice Principal – CPCE, NATI; Deputy Principal GTI, LTI; P r i n c i p a l C S H E ; Administrator–GITC SPECIAL Principal –CPCE,GTI,NATI,LTI Regards.

E.BJohn

Blackout:Constantblackouts,Iblame...

Frompage05

Government and peoples of Guyana.Theycouldsetupa toll system from which they could recover their money/capital after a numberofyears.

Ali, peoples of this country, hydro was sabotaged by Khemraj Ramjattan’s AFC!

Guyanese community who daily peddle racist packs of lies.

It is what keeps them relevant and reinforced their bigotedagenda.

Reversediscriminationis a perverse form of racism, that members of the Guyana opposition should condemn and disassociate themselves from in the interest of communityandcountry

Respectfullysubmitted, HerbertAllen

Most important, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Guyana Police Force could have a reliable, powerful, integrated fingerprint and record of citizens of this country stored and transferred easily as I saw since 1973 operating in Ottawa, Canada when I was studyingPoliceTechnology.

And since then, I have beenlamentingandspeaking of the necessity of having this kind of system in Guyana.

But I know it is impossible for all of this to happen,beitinfra-structure, criminal records, health facilities records, to be fully stored and transmittable without proper reliable electricity

Excellency, President

I do not blame the PNC. BecausethePNC’sjobasthe main Opposition is to do all they can to possibly destroy a good, decent and reliable government, voted and electedbythepeople.

And they would sabotage obviously the “Hydro,”thesamewaythey sabotage the children of Guyana and disaffected the parentsbyinstantlystopping the ‘We Care’cash grant of G$10,000atthattimetoeach child.’

I recall well, that Ramjattan wanted a particular thing and threatened the Bharrat Jagdeo Government with funding for the Amelia Hydro Project But the PPP/C Government did not budge to the threats of Ramjattan’s sabotage

Consequently, Ramjattan’s AFC voted with the PNC to demolishHydro.

h

reby bringing

intentional trauma, torture, heartache, hardship, and paintotheGuyanesepeople mostly with the same ache and venom brought to the sugar workers in the Corentyne area by the closure of the factories withoutanotice.

It was a great sadness when I learnt later that the Amelia Hydro Project did not receive Government’s Parliamentarysupportatthat time or the supposedly independent Ramjattan’s AFC.

Therefore, peoples of Guyana, I, the undersigned statemostemphatically;that itisnotthefaultofGPLnor of the Government of Guyana, but that of the PNC/R to an extent, but mostly the AFC and its Leader Ramjattan Therefore, like the sugar workers when we see the AFCleadersandRamjattan, we almost frowned on him/ them.

Sincerely, HajiDr

RoshanKhan

Economic Advisor to the Leader of the Opposition, Elson Low

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

When will the Natural Resources Minister face the media?

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has held several press conferences to address an array of issues, including breaking down his oversight role in the oil and gas sector.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

But the man who actually has day-to-day responsibility for the industry, Natural Resources Minister,Vickram Bharrat has been silent for over three years.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

For how long does he intend to hide behind the shadow of the Vice President, before coming to terms with the fact that he owes this nation due accountability on critical matters such as the running of the Petroleum Division under his purview.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

When will the Natural Resources Minister face the media on critical issues within the oil industry or must we mount a year-long protest for that too?

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Grow a pair, Minister Bharrat!

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Norton says Opposition under no obligation to reveal its policy advisors on oil sector

Leader of the

O p p o s itio n , Aubrey Norton, last Thursday staunchly refused to disclose the identities of the opposition's oil and gas policy advisors. Whileheaccededtodisclose theidentitiesoftheMembers ofParliament(MP)whotake point on oil matters, Norton said his refusal to reveal the advisors is borne out of a need to protect them from victimization.

Of the MPs, Norton

stated,“Thepointpersons,as Iunderstandit,onoilandgas in the parliament are one, David Patterson, two Shurwayne Holder, I think three Ricky Ramsaroop is alsoinvolved.”

Regarding the advisors, the Leader rebuffed the questiontwice.Heexplained that he has a deep-rooted concern about the present governmentbeingvindictive. Elaborating, Norton said, "You're dealing with a very vindictive government and

theminuteyoucallonename, theywillgo aftertheperson. We're not in a democratic society We have people with us who do not want the government to know that theyarewithusandadvising us."

Norton was pressed further on the question, with one journalist underscoring theneedfortheOppositionto be just as accountable as the Government. This need is especially pronounced for the oil sector, which has the

potentialtoliftGuyanaintoa neweraofdevelopment.But Norton was resolute in his stance.

He said that he has an obligation to protect the safety and interests of those assisting the opposition. “It's also the responsibility of me asleadertoprotectthepeople who are helping us... while I acknowledgearesponsibility whenwearereportingonoil and gas... I believe we have no obligation to tell the world, especially in the natureofthissociety,whoare ouradvisors,”Nortonstated.

When told that Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has criticized the Opposition as reactionary in its commentary on oil issues, Norton blasted Jagdeo as an ineffective and questionable character He said, "As incompetent as Jagdeo is, he shouldn't be asking any

question... he has no moral right to speak, he is incompetent, his character is questionable."

He urged however that journalists look back on the O p p o s i t i o n ' s pronouncements, to see that there is consistency in its policies.

Following Norton's press conference,Jagdeocriticised him for not revealing the names of his advisors

“Imagine at this stage in our development, that the leader of the opposition is saying thathehassomesecretpolicy advisors.Wedon'tknowwho they are whether they are foreigners, whether they are oil and gas companies, whethertheyareGuyanese… Hecan'ttellthecountrythis. The country must not know this because the PPP is vindictive.”

W h i l e N o r t o n ' s

apprehensions about potential retributions are not entirelyunfounded given the nature of politics in Guyana, the argument can also be made that the reason for keepingtheiridentitiessecret is that their credentials may not be able to withstand scrutiny

The identities of those shaping the policies that will dictate the management of Guyana'soilsector,aswellas the policies of those holding the government accountable, are of interest to the G u y a n e s e p u b l i c , stakeholdersbelieve.

Their credentials, experiences, and allegiances could play a significant role in influencing the Opposition's policies As such, the decision to keep them shielded from public view does not come without itsshareofskepticism.

Mother killed on her way to pick up son

A 26-year-old woman died on Friday at Belle West, Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara(WBD)aftershewasrunoverbya truckwhileridingherelectricscootertopick uphersonfromschool.

Dead is Fareeza Majeed better known as “Zana”. Majeed was reportedly struck down bythetruckaround14:00hrs.

A friend of Majeed said the woman had justleftworkwhentragedystruck.

“Justafewminutesago,myworkgirlleft to go pick up her son at school and less than five minutes, I heard you got accident and died”, the woman's friend posted on Facebook just minutes after Majeed met her demise.

Police are yet to divulge information surrounding the accident but this newspaper understandsthatMajeeddiedonthespot.As investigations continue in the accident, her tragic death has left her family in a state of shock.

Her brother, Anil Saffie, in a Facebook post,saidthatherlosshasshatteredhisworld.

“Shewasmorethanjustasibling;shewas my confidante, my partner in laughter and tears,andmyunwaveringsourceofsupport. Her absence left a void that can never be

Dead, Fareeza Majeed

filled, and the memories we shared are now bittersweet reminders of what once was”, Saffieposted.

The government represents a threat to freedom of expression

It is apparent that there are two significant factors affecting press freedom in the country: the lack of objectivity by certain media outlets, particularly those in the State media, and the government’s limited t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accessibility

One of the primary impediments to press freedom in Guyana is the lackofobjectivitydisplayed by some media outlets, particularly the State media. The State media’s proclivity

to side with the ruling party has undermined its journalisticintegrity

Itwas nodifferentunder the APNU+AFC. All that happened was that the State media switched sides and became the mouthpiece of therulingCoalition.

The PPP/C elected in 2020 has returned to its old ways of having the State media almost totally blank the Opposition. All day and all night, the State media churns out pro-government pieces with hardly a

criticismofthegovernment. The State media in Guyana hasbeenhighlypartisanand inclined towards the ruling government. This approach has reduced the role of the State media to being the exclusive spokesperson of the government. It should take the example of the British Broadcasting Corporation.

The BBC, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), has long served as a commendable model for State media in other countries Its

Houston hazardous waste facility...

Frompage3 and gas industry for well logging and well drilling. The company said they are placed in tools that are lowered into the well, both on the drill string above the drilling bit during the drilling of the well (Well Construction) and on wireline lowered into the already drilled well (Reservoir Performance), in ordertodeterminedetailsof the formations passed through (lithology, porosity, fluid content, etc.). These measurements are of fundamental importance both during the drilling and afterwards to determine the successofthewell.

SLB was keen to note that it invented the technology of lowering measuring instruments into wells to evaluate the presence of hydrocarbons. Furthermore,SLBsaidithas been operating with radioactive sources throughout the world since

theearly1950'sandhasbeen in the forefront in assisting regulatorybodiessuchasthe US Nuclear Regulatory

Commission in the formulation of regulations and safe operating requirements for the use of ionizing radiation in oil and gas exploration and production.

EPAwaiver

The EPA in announcing its decision to waive an impact study for the project earlier this year explained that the inventory of radioactive sources submitted with the application has been categorized under

Categories 3-5 as per the InternationalAtomicEnergy

A g e n c y ( I A E A )

Categorization of

Radioactive Sources (No RS-G-1 9) The EPA said it is important to note that the IAEA has specified that these sources may only pose a potential risk to individuals close to them

when they are unshielded, with typical durations rangingfromdaystoweeks.

Furthermore, the EPA saidthefacilitywillcalibrate and store sealed radioactive sources, meaning the radioactive material is enclosed within a tightly sealed capsule, surrounded by layers of non-radioactive material, and securely affixed to a non-radioactive source, effectively preventing any potential leakage or environmental release of the radioactive material. It said too that proper shielding and distancing can significantly reduce the risk of radiation exposuretothepublic.

Research by this publication shows that exposure to radioactive waste can cause cancerous growths in humans and genetic damage or mutation to animals and plants Scientists believe these changes could prevent sustainableprocreation.

DEM BOYS SEH DBS

Too many vehicles lead to much accidents

Deroadsituation has become chaotic and dangerous Vehicles everywhere, traffic jams longer than a Zoom meeting, and nuff, nuff accidents. Nuff complaints are being made about the situation but very few solutions are being proposed.

So today, dem boys want suggest some answers.DemBoysSehwe need to put the brakes on vehicle importation faster than you can say, “traffic jam.”

Some homes collecting cars more like if dem collecting stamps or coins. Some people own so many

cars dat dem nah gat space fuh park dem. And every daymoreandmorecarsare beingimportedwithoutany expansion in the i n f r a s t r u c t u r e t o accommodate this increased volume. So, dem boys suggest a short-term ban on importing vehicles for personal use. Let’s hit pause on the car-buying frenzyandgiveourroadsa breather

Some people gat four persons living in a house anddemgattencars.Datis toomuchandwegattostart thinking about applying a windfall tax on car ownership. De more cars yuh gat, de more taxes yuh musspay

success lies in its impartiality, objectivity and professional journalistic standards Unlike State media outlets in some countriesthatactaspuppetsfor therulinggovernment,theBBC operates independently and because of it editorial independenceisatrustedsource ofinformation.

In Guyana, the State media has no such objectivity But the lack of objectivityisnotconfinedto the State media alone. The private media, has at times, andwhenaddressingcertain issues,beenequallyguiltyof being blinkered in their reportingandcommentaries. Itisnotunusualtofindissues in which the private media demonstrateaone-sidedand jaundiced approach to reporting.Onesuchinstance has been the rape allegation against a Minister of the government who has since stepped down. Some have been known to report on issues without seeking to represent all sides of the story. This has contributed, in no small measure, to a polarized media landscape that further divides the nationalongpoliticallines.

Thesecondcriticalfactor affecting press freedom in Guyana is the lack of t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d responsivenessonthepartof the government. However, the government of Guyana has shunned transparency, had adopted an overtly hostile attitude to criticisms and has been selective and generally unresponsive to the private media’s request for specific information, particularlyrelatingtotheoil

andgassector Infact,given recent outbursts by some government officials, the private media should feel threatened.

BoththeStabroekNewsand the Kaieteur News have fallen preytothegovernment’shostile actions, facing unwarranted retaliation simply for taking critical stances on specific governmentalmatters.Their only “crime” has been their commitment to providing independent and critical coverage, challenging government actions when necessary Regrettably,these media outlets have become the targets of adverse measures and unwarranted attacks, all in the name of suppressing dissenting voices.Reportsofgovernment ministers being inaccessible to themediaaredeeplyconcerning Thegovernmentexercisesatight griponreporting.Requestsfor information are often met with silence. Many instances, ministers do not takecallsfromreportersand are extremely evasive when theydo.Thisnewspaperhas beenvirtuallyblacklistedby manyMinistersofthePPP/C government.Onegovernment official grants exclusive interviews selectively, looking forasoftlandingratherthanbe exposed to rigorous scrutiny Selectivityinthegrantingof interviews and information

l e a k s u n d e r m i n e transparency and breeds suspicions that the government has something to hide. WhenthePPP/Cwas firstelectedtoofficein1992,an experiment was introduced in which the Ministry of Information hosted ministerial

press conferences This experiment did not last too long but during the time it did, it allowed the media greater access to question Ministersontheirrespective portfolios. This practice has all but disappeared The absence of press conferences hostedbygovernmentministers is a notable concern Very few ministers in the present government host such conferences. If press freedom is going to exist in Guyana, then these two significant challenges must be addressed: the lack of objectivity in the media, particularlystatemedia,and the government’s limited t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accessibility Butthatisnot likely to happen anytime soon The state of professional media standardsisappalling.Some of the country’s senior reportersarebeyondreform. Someofthemareevenmore partisan than their political m a s t e r s A n d o u r governments – past and present - fear accountability and transparency more than COVID-19.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

Some people does buy car just fuh de status symbol Dem want to impress dem neighbour If dem neighbours buy a car, dem does go and buy one too.

Some people want to show off dem gat fancy ride.

Datisallwellandgood if we had the roads to take offdecarsontheroad.But rightnow,theroadsarenot adequate fuh de traffic. So we should get going by placing a one-year ban on the importation of personal cars and a limit on the amount of cars any one person can own. Just for oneyear!

TalkHalf!LeffHalf!

AlistairRoutledge–thebestmanforthecircumstances

I will say this loud and clear: daily I get a fuller appreciationastowhyExxon selected Mr Alistair Routledge to be its Country Head in Guyana I understandalsowhyMr Rod Henson had to go - too receptive and too flexible. Now,withthatsaid,Irefocus onMr.Routledge,andallthat hebrings tothetable,halfof which Guyanese have not encountered yet, in all their

nuanced sophistications. If nothing else, Mr Routledge reminds me of smooth American corporate speak, and also the tricky (forked) tongue,withwhichtheWhite man has enunciated, whenever the treasure of others is involved. Just checkwithNativeAmericans for confirmation, and that's justforstarters.

OnthismatterofUS$214 million in disputed (now

disturbing) audit expenses, Mr. Routledge was the epitome of reassuring suavity: “Our experience is thattypically,veryfew,ifany, costs are ultimately rejected, reflecting the integrity and quality of our accounting activities.”

On behalf of all Guyana, a word of gratitude is extended to Mr. Routledge for his first terse verbal ventureintothisauditmatter

turned fiasco turned scandal turned mystery On that glossed over aspect of “typically, very few…costs are ultimately rejected”, apparently Mr Routledge conveniently forget that the GRAhadmorethanUS$214 millionasitsfindings,andas driven by its own work. Therefore, “very few” is stretching the limits of the language, and straining credibility

It pushes audit findings, Mr Routledge, further into the murkiness that has plagued oil matters in Guyana, and with Exxon as stellar,superpower,partner

R e g a r d i n g M r R o u t l e d g e ' s s e l fcongratulatory posture projected in the words “reflecting the integrity and quality of our accounting activities”Ihumblyofferthis contradiction to the Country Head: since accounting integrity and quality are so high, sir, why is it that these areshroudedinimpenetrable blanketsofsecrecy?

How is it, Mr Country Head,thattheGovernmentof Guyana is so petrified over releasing all Exxon-related expenses involving other oil projects? What is there to fear when accounting integrity and quality are of such immaculacy? Mr Routledge should know that his company's partner, CEO John Hess, has more than once spoken glowingly of how democracy is at such a highwatermark,thankstothe pristine majesty of the PPP Government. Country Head Routledge should also know that democracy and secrecy are archenemies: the former isheroic,thelattervillainous. So, how about those expenses hidden from Guyanese,Mr Routledge?

T h e r e i s nothing that could

b e m o r e representative of “good faith” than that, Mr Routledge.

And, now given this revelation of Exxon always acting in “good faith”, why was Exxon's people

communicating with

Ministry of Natural Resources people, when the parameters were clearly set as to who were/are the sole points of contact, the sole pointsofactionanddecision?

Mr AlistairRoutledgethatis notgoodfaithconduct. And one more thing, Mr Alistair Routledge, you are not AlistairCooke,andthisisnot MasterpieceTheater Thisis thetheaterofapoorcountry's dream, its people's aspirations.

Since the Exxon Guyana CountryHeadhasbroughtup goodfaith,hehasopenedthe door

Iregrettoinformhimthat the record of his company's conduct has not been of impeccablegoodfaith. Inhis (and my) own United States, the State of California has now exposed to the world what Exxon knew about climate change, and what it did to conceal and repeal the truths of science-based narratives. I will spare Mr Routledge, Guyana's trusted andgoodfaithpartner,froma repetitionofanylitanyofthe machinations that have been placedontheheadofExxon. About its books and records. About its stratagems and subterfuges About its leaders'actionstoprotectthe corporate franchise by any means necessary, using any sordidpeopleandpracticesto gain the day, both inside of the US, and also beyond its boundaries. If what Exxon

did in the US is its interpretation of what is sublime, and what Mr Routledge labels as “good faith” with this audit in Guyana, then I am the Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court.

Instead of breaking silence, Exxon's Mr Routledgewouldhavebetter served his company's interests by maintaining silence. Instead of clearing the air, all that this great American did was insert more covertness and cloudiness into the atmosphereandproceedings. For when Exxon (Mr. Routledge) could assert, pursuant to Article 23 and Annex C of the 2016 PSA that, “we have acted in good faith and co-operated with the government…” it was onto to something, with specific emphasis on that word“co-operated.” Yessir! But who and why and how? Andespeciallywhenthatwas not part of the official audit program, and Exxon should have known better?

Utilizingbackchannelsisnot operating “good faith” and “co-operated with the government” can now be seen in an ugly light, and what has come to place a blightonthisaudit. Have a blessed Sabbath, Mr Routledge. Sayaprayer forme,please.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this newspaperanditsaffiliates.)

Man loses hand during street fight

Police have confirmed that a man on Thursdaynightlostoneofhishandsduringa fight at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

The victim and the suspect reportedly attacked each other on the roadway Kaieteur News understands that the feud was over an altercation the men had a few months ago. The victim had reportedly beaten the suspect and he (the suspect) wanted revenge. When the men saw each other on Thursday, the suspect began provokingthevictim.

They ended up cursing and threatening

eachother

Things escalated and the men armed themselves with pieces of wood and began beating each other The suspect reportedly retreated but returned shortly after with a cutlass. There was another brief scuffle beforethesuspectbeganfiringchopsatthe victim.

The victim used his hands to defend himself;however,thesuspectcontinuedthe assaultandchoppedoneoftheman'swrists, severing it in the process. The suspect is currentlyontherun. Investigationsareongoing.

Exxon should relinquish gas discoveries to Govt., if it does not want to monetise them -

ExxonMobildoesnotwantto monetize its gas discoveries, they should be relinquished

tothegovernment. “We've made it clear, we want to monetize our gas

assets,” Dr Jagdeo said during a recent press engagement “We have publicly signalled that if those areas, like Haimara, which has more gas than the otherwells,thatiftheycanbe monetized, and if Exxon doesn't want to move on them, we expect them to relinquish.”

Recently, Guyana's Maritime Administration Department highlighted that ExxonMobil is utilizing the StenaDrillMaxfordrillingat Haimara-2,anappraisalwell thatwillconfirmthequantity of gas resources at the Haimara field. ExxonMobil made a discovery at the Haimara-1 well in 2019, usingtheStenaCarron.

The company had found approximately 207 feet of high-quality, gas-condensate bearing sandstone reservoir The Haimara-1 well is located about 19 miles from the Pluma-1 discovery, anothergas-richzone.

The significance of the Haimara-1discoveryhadled ExxonMobil to flag it as a potential new zone for development, at the time. However, Exxon has been morefocusedondrainingout Guyana'soilresourcesbefore movingontothegas.

Now, after having lined up six projects in the oil pipeline, with a seventh in appraisalmode,ExxonMobil is closely assessing the feasibility of natural gas projects in the Stabroek Block.

Jagdeo Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Ithasalsobeenlookingat production facilities, to determine which would be besttoextractthegas.

The Stabroek Block holds17trillioncubicfeetof natural gas, approximately a quarterofGuyana's11billion oil-equivalentbarrels.

Vice President Jagdeo said it is because of government's position that the gas should be monetised or relinquished, that Exxon now has to “do much more work[onthe]appraisalofthe assets.”

“That's what they're doing,andwe'repleasedthat that is being done,” Jagdeo stated.

“Weareworkingonagas strategy I'm hopeful that within two weeks or so, we shouldbeabletoputthefirst draft out for consultation. That strategy will outline basicallyourapproachtothe industry,”Jagdeosaid.

Inpreparationforthis,the government is looking to prepareandpublishthedraft ofitsnationalgasstrategyin approximately two weeks, for public consultation Jagdeo had promised the government would work on the strategy after wrapping up offshore licensing round. The new Petroleum Activities Law is a lot more stringent about the need to develop discovered resources.

With the new unitisation provision in the law, there is alsothepotentialforjointgas development between GuyanaandSuriname. Whilemassivegasfields have been discovered in the eastern part of the Stabroek Blocknear the border with Suriname, TotalEnergies has also discovered a hefty volume of natural gas in Block 58 on the otherside.

BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCY!

SundaySeptember 17,2023

Lipservicewillnotdo!

Guyanesearedemanding morefromtheirOpposition.

Mere calls for better managementoftheoilsector willnotdo.

Actionsmustbetakenby any strong leadership to show the people you mean business.

Excuses for not having the financial resources and expertise to fight on our behalf are simply unacceptable If ordinary Guyanese can do it then so canyou!

Lipservicealonewillnot convince the Guyanese voters at such a critical turningpointinourcountry's history We demand action for changes to this lopsided dealtobetterthelivesofour peoplenow!

MondaySeptember 18,2023

ExxonMobil'spublicfarce

The public consultations that ExxonMobil has put on todatehavebeenreallymore aboutpubliclimitation,even publicdistortions.

What is damning is that these orchestrations and m a n i p u l a t i o n s o f ExxonMobil under the flag of public consultations have been executed with the full backing of the Government ofGuyana.

Guyanese have been shortchanged again and again, kept in the dark, and then given a smooth pat on the head, with the unspoken adviceof'gohomeandleave these things alone.' Some Guyanese, however, will havenothingtodowithsuch corporatebalms.

It is why earlier public c o n s u l t a t i o n s b y ExxonMobil have come in for scathing criticisms from local observers, with positions such as 'joke' or 'farce' or 'smokescreen' expressedopenly

TuesdaySeptember 18,2023

Exxoncontract

It has been called barefacedandlopsided…

Ithasbeencalledtwisted andone-sided…

The PPP in Opposition calledthecontractacurse!

The PPP in Govt. now curses those who call it a

curse!

Whose side is the PPP Govt.on?

Whose chamber is VP Jagdeoin?

WednesdaySeptember 19,2023

Exxonuptonogood

Look at the people of ExxonMobil and how they have gleefully created an openingforthemselvesinthe hearts of naïve, gullible Guyanese.

There is cricket sponsorship evidenced all overtheNationalStadiumat Providence, East Bank Demerara.

The billboards and other symbols of ExxonMobil's love for Guyanese and for one of their favourite pastimes (cricket) cost the cashrichcompanyahandful ofdimes,definitelynotmore than a few measly dollars.

Cricket sponsorship in Guyana in 2023 is the equivalent of what the slave traders used to deliver to the Africanchiefswhosoldtheir ownpeopleintoslaveryfora few bells and whistles and shinymirrors.

Amiddifferentgroupsof Guyanese protestors pointing to the barbarities of ExxonMobil's 2016 oil contract, there is ExxonMobil's people smirkingtothemselvesabout howcheaplytheyaregetting Guyana'soil.

A billboard or two in Providence, a playground somewhere else, and a few dollars for studies at the University of Guyana are representative of the cleverness of the new slave dealersandslavemasters.

ThursdaySeptember 20,2023

Whothehelldoes somethinglikethat inGuyana?

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo would have you believe that someone at the Ministry of Natural Resourcessomehowatsome time took it upon himself or herself(itcouldbeplural)to move behind the back of the minister, the GRA, and the entiregovernmentapparatus, and dealt with Exxon directly

They did not just deal with Exxon, but had the power and authority (or curiously arrogated same to

themselves) to strip the IHS/GRAauditissueamount of US$214 million to a measly US$3 million. Who the hell does something like thatinGuyana?

FridaySeptember 21,2023

Jagdeo'spublicpositions don'taddup

When it comes to the US$214 million audit debacle, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo's public positionsdonotaddup,they only thicken the mysteries anddarknessexistingbefore.

It was Jagdeo himself who shared audit finding numbers that went from US$214 million to US$11 million, and then to the rock bottom of US$3 million in findings. Considering that last US$3 million figure, it was the equivalent of there being no finding by IHS Markit and the Guyana RevenueAuthority(GRA)at all.

A l s o , b o t h t h e government and the Vice President indicated that missing documentation was provided by ExxonMobil, which effectively reversed some of the audit findings. Since the supporting documents were supplied, then that should have been that, once they were accepted, which is what Guyanese were led to believe.

The fact is it did not turn out to be so, with the usual Jagdeosurfacing.

SaturdaySeptember 22,2023

Exxonandaccuracy ofdata

Exxonclaims"veryfew"of anyofitscostsifany,inan auditisrejected.

This clever criminal, known around the world for submittingfalsedataexpects Guyanesetobelievethistale.

We at this newspaper know different and believe that the questionable costs flaggedbytheBritishauditor oftheUS$1.7Bbillscouldbe muchgreater

Finally, rather than tooting its own horn and boasting of its "integrityand quality of accounting activities" ExxonMobil should accept the audit findings and give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, especially since it is already baggingthehogofresources fromouroilwealth.

In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecency in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation.

SUNDAY

Natural Resources Chairman of the Guyana of surveying or otherwise Minister,VickramBharratin Elections Commission examining the lands to Exxon begins work a later statement said that (GECOM) and renowned acquire part of or the whole on 7th oil project and staff within his Petroleum veterinarian, through his lands for the construction 6th not yet approved Unit engaged in an attorneys, Christopher Ram works.

“unauthorized” reduction of andChristopherThompson. Dr Surjubally outlined

The Environment the questionable expenses. In an application to the that the said Order was Protection Agency (EPA) is He added that members of High Court dated August 3, published in the Official still processing an the unit have since been 2023, the land owner is Gazette on August 06, 2021 application made by instructed to cease such seeking an Order for and he was only made aware ExxonMobil Guyana unethical engagements and adequate compensation to that the government Limited (EMGL) for the tofollowtheleadoftheGRA the tune of $100 million for intended to acquire the lands sixth project in the Stabroek onsuchaudits. his plot of land located at in the area where his Block; however, the oil

In light of the foregoing, Nouvelle Flanders - La property is located through a company has already the APNU said, “The Jalousie, West Coast mediareport. commenced work for its explanations offered by Demerara. He said he was not seventhplannedproject. Minister of Natural The Attorney General of contacted by any official of

This information is Resources Vickram Bharrat Guyana, Anil Nandlall S.C the government to negotiate contained in the Ministry of and VP Bharrat Jagdeo at and Minister of Public the purchase of his land, nor FinanceMid-YearReport.In best expose their ineptitude Works, Juan Edghill are on the likelihood that his providing an update on and dereliction and, at listed as respondents in the land may be compulsorily production activities in the worse, point to probable Fixed Date Application in acquiredbytheState. document, the government criminality.” which Dr Surujbally claims Some six months after explained, “In June 2023, The party reasoned that his constitutional right of the publication of the Order, appraisal work commenced any responsible leader protection from deprivation on March 1, 2022, Dr and is ongoing to define the wouldhave,uponlearningof of property guaranteed to Surujbally said he was seventh project in the the slashing of the expenses, him under Article 142(1) of overseas when he was StabroekBlock.” sought clarity on the matter the Constitution of Guyana, informed via a phone call

Even as the company Contrarily, the Opposition Cap1:01, and section 7(1) of that an official from the engages in activities to “The project’s FDP company, between the argued, “He [Jagdeo] the Acquisition of Lands for Guyana Lands and Surveys prepare for a seventh submission to government period 1999 and 2017, informed the nation that he Public Purposes Act Cap. Commission (GLSC) had development, it is yet to for review is anticipated for concluded that the state accepted the report at face 62:05 was violated through called to notify of an receive the necessary October2023.” could contest US$214 value and had no concerns the State’s failure to make intendedsurveyonhisland. regulatory approvals for its Guyana currently has millionofthosecosts. and sought no explanations. prompt payment of adequate The former GECOM sixth deepwater project, two FPSOs producing oil at Subsequently,VPJagdeo This is negligence and compensation for the Chair said he immediately Whiptail. the Liza One andTwo fields, said that the costs were malfeasance of the highest acquisition for public contacted the official when

The Government of operatedbyExxon.Thetotal reducedtoUS$3billionafter order.” purposes of land owned by he was told that a Notice, Guyana (GoG) has not been production, approximately the company managed to The party was keen to him. whichhehadneverreceived, shy about its intent to ramp 400,000 barrels per day, submit documents that note that such negligence He is also seeking costs was issued on the intended up production activities over often exceeds the safe further brought down the canleadtothelossofbillions and any other orders the survey. Following Dr. the coming years though operating limits outlined in disputed amount from of dollars of public funds. In Court may deem just. Surujbally’s request, a copy countries have been urged to the Environmental Impact US$11billion. callingfortheremovalofthe According to court of the notice, dated January scale back on oil and gas Assessments(EIAs). At his press conference Vice President from documents seen by this 30, 2022 was sent to him, activities to combat global In the meantime, a third on Thursday, Jagdeo managing the petroleum warming. offshore project- Payara- is explained that the US$3 sector, the APNU said, “The

According to the Mid- expected to start up before billion breakdown by the nation has travelled this road Year report, actions taken the end of 2023, while the Ministry of Natural before with VP Jagdeo. The duringthefirstsixmonthsof fourth project, Yellowtail, is Resources Petroleum Unit Skeldon Sugar factory 2023 are likely to further likely to come on stream the shouldnothaveoccurred.He modernization project, the drive up production in the following year The fifth said this was done without Fibre Optics Cable project, next few years “These project is aiming for startup the knowledge of the and Su-gate to name a few include the Yellowtail One by2026.

Guyana Revenue Authority have starkly exposed his Guyana FPSO (Floating The government said it (GRA), which was tasked incapabilities. He is out of Production Storage and aims to produce a million withoverseeingtheprocess. his depth The nation publication, some 1 5158 which stated that the survey Offloading vessel) hull barrels of oil per day by The Vice President said, distrusts him enough is acres of the Applicant’s was scheduled for February arriving in drydock in 2027.

“This matter should have enough!”

2.005 acres of land was 16, 2022, and that he may Singapore ahead of schedule beenclosedearlier Ithought required for the project, attend. The applicant said he in March 2023 ” This Jagdeo must be GRA was dealing with this MONDAY however after discussions, it did not object to the survey triggered other activities removed from managing matter totally because that is was agreed that the State n o r d i d h e s e n d a such as works on the vessel oil sector -APNU what we said… that GRA Former GECOM Chair would acquire his entire plot representative to observe the and the installation of should deal with the issue of takes Govt. to court over ofland. process. mooring structures and a The A Partnership for theaudit.Theyshouldhavea Gas-to-energy project

The applicant explained Upon his return to riser balcony These National Unity (APNU) is final say at the technical …seeks adequate that via Order Number 18 of Guyana on March 25, 2022 activities are ongoing and calling for Vice President level. I was reluctant to even compensation for lands to 2021, made under the Dr Surujbally said he learnt projected to be completed in BharratJagdeotobestripped speak about it because I said be used for gas pipeline Acquisition of Lands for that his land would be the thefourthquarterof2023. of his responsibilities of it is being handled Public Purposes Act, Cap. firstpointoflandentryofthe Meanwhile, on the fifth managing Guyana’s technically.” Another Guyanese 62:05, the Minister of Public submarine pipeline, which p r o j e c t , U a r u , t h e burgeoning oil and gas The official said he later w h o s e l a n d w a s Worksdeclaredtheproposed will extend to the Wales government approved the industry discovered that GRA wrote compulsorily acquired by construction of gas pipeline Estate, the intended location Field Development Plan In a statement to the the ministry and said twice the Government of Guyana from Nouvelle Flanders on of a planned 300-megawatt (FDP) and issued the media on Saturday, the joint that given the passage of (GoG) to facilitate the 12- the West Coast of Demerara PowerPlantandNaturalGas Petroleum Production Oppositionpartiesexplained time, the audit should close inch pipeline, as part of the toCanalNumberOnePublic LiquidPlant(NGL). LicenceinApril2023. that Guyanese across the with US$214M as the final Gas-to-Energy (GTE) Road on the West Bank of He said he was informed

When it comes to the country are alarmed by the amount of disputed costs but project,hasfiledlegalaction Demerara, passing through that the survey report would sixth project, it was recent development in the thishesaiddidnotoccur against the State, in pursuit his lands and others listed in be submitted to the Project e x p l a i n e d t h a t t h e country’sfirstoilaudit.

Jagdeo said the Natural of adequate compensation theSchedule. Task Force, headed by Mr government participated in It was reported that the Resources Ministry then forhisproperty T h a t O r d e r a l s o Winston Brassington, who two pre-FDP engagements audit conducted by British engaged Exxon i

would make contact with the on Whiptail, in April 2023 Consultant, IHS-Markit, of discussion after GRA Robert Steven Surujbally, Commissioner of the Lands affected landowners by the and June 2023, respectively some US$1 6 billion in recommended closing the better known as Dr Steve and Surveys to enter upon endofApril2022toadvise According to the report, expenses incurred by the oil audit.

From page 14 the services of legal firm compensation, the Applicant has

When contacted by Kaieteur on the acquisition plan ChristopherRam&Associates. been most cooperative with the News, the Guyana Police Force Subsequently, on September 23, He said he received a response Government and the various confirmed that the child died 2022, the Applicant attended a viaemailfromtheHeadoftheTask agencies of State, allowing access following the accident during the meeting led by the AG, and Force on October 12, 2022, to his property and attending all morning hours on Sunday The supportedbytheMinisterofPublic advisingthatMr ManojNarayanis meetings called by the relevant police did not divulge much details Works,theMinisterofHousingand the government designated authorities. oftheaccident. Water, Collin Croal, and the attorney for his matter He was He said the attorneys did not

Kaieteur News has been Minister of Natural Resources, contactedbyNarayanduringwhich receive the courtesy of an informed that the teen driver was Vickram Bharrat, as well as the he expressed concern over the acknowledgment or a response arrested by the police as Brassington, Head of the Task process thus far and inadequate from the Head of the Task Force. investigations into the deadly Forceandotherkeyofficials. communication by the government Nevertheless, on February 9, 2023, accidentcontinue.

At the meeting, landowners with landowners whose lands they the Applicant said he received an were informed that under the intended to acquire for public emailfromtheEnergyOfficeofthe TUESDAY Petroleum Act, the government is purposes. Ministry of Natural Resources now moving to acquire properties Compensation advising lands needed for the Rogue elements that for the laying of the gas below market value projecthavebeenacquiredandthat attempted to reduce Exxon’s pipeline/concomitant structures TheformerGECOMChairalso a construction team under the questionable US$214M and that the intention is for stated that the compensation purview of GAICO, will be expenses to US$3M consensual negotiations and offeredbythegovernmentwaswell removing structures from the lands must be exposed and compensation at market value, below current market value. The commencingonFebruary09,2022. fired – Shadow Oil Minister taking into account location, type lawyer informed the applicant that Theemailalsoservedtoinform this end, his lawyers said, of land, volume of land and use of he will communicate directly with him that notwithstanding previous “Pursuant to Article 142(1) of the ShadowMinisterfortheOiland land. A total of 73.3 acres were Christopher Ram andAssociates to negotiations and offers by the Constitution of Guyana, and Gas Sector, David Patterson is required with a width of 23 metres formalizenegotiations. Government above the market section 7 of the Acquisition of calling for “the rogue elements” to cater for the burying of the Dr Surujbally said he was not value, parties shall continue to Lands for Public Purposes Act the within the Petroleum Unit of the pipelinealong25kmofland. contacted thereafter nor was his work regarding compensation Applicant is entitled to prompt MinistryofNaturalResourcestobe D u r i n g t h e m e e t i n g , attorney. They therefore on valuesforthelandssoacquired. payment of adequate and exposed and fired for causing the landowners were offered between November 4, 2022 emailed the Through his Lawyers, Dr satisfactory compensation for the nation, “utter embarrassment” in G$1-4millionperacreofland. lawyer to provide an update on the Surujbally on February 13, 2022 compulsory acquisition of his land the audit of ExxonMobil’s Dr. Surujbally said several developments. Thereafter, he said responded to the email, rejecting bytheState.” expensesintheStabroekBlock. concerns were raised during the several attempts to meet with the the assertion that “previous

They noted therefore that the The matter raised by Patterson engagement regarding possible lawyer(s) to work out a mutual negotiations and offers have been failure to make prompt payment of was brought to light last week by environmental hazards and the settlementprovedfutile. advanced by the Government” adequate compensation for the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. effectsoncropsbytheGTEproject. On November 29, 2022, Dr. adding that no negotiations or compulsorily acquisition of his The chief policymaker for the oil Noting the concerns, the AG Surujbally’s lawyers wrote to offershavebeenmade. land by the State falls below the industry had exposed that the advised that Government will Brassington, flagging the State’s Adequate compensation threshold of what is fair and ministry was engaged in appoint lawyers and that the failuretomakeaformaloffertothe TheformerGECOMChairsaid adequate and gives rise to an deliberations with Exxon that saw landowners shall be contacted Applicant,andurgedthatthematter that during a meeting with infringement of the Applicant’s over US$214M in questionable directly, within a week, for further be resolved soonest. They also Brassington on February 21, 2023, fundamental right guaranteed by expensesbeingslashedtoUS$11M discussions. noted that, notwithstanding several it was acknowledged that the State Article 142(1) of the Constitution andthentoUS$3M.TheUS$214M Having not been contacted by violations of the Acquisition of would take the entirety of the of Guyana and constitutes a figure was flagged by British any Government appointed lawyer, Lands for Public Purposes Act, Applicant’s 2.005 acres of land as deprivation of the Applicant’s ConsultancyGroup,IHSMarkit,in theApplicant on October 12, 2022, Cap. 62:05 and breaches of the opposed to the 1.5158 identified in property a report it produced after being emailed the Head of theTask Force Applicant’s constitutional right not the Schedule attached to Order 56 Dr Surujbally maintains that hired back in 2019 to audit and advised that he had not been to be deprived of this property of2022. his offer of G$100M as full and US$1 7B in expenses Exxon contacted and that he had retained without prompt payment of During the meeting, he said the final settlement is fair and incurred from 1999 to 2017. That issue of adequate compensation reasonable. US$214M in questionable wasalsodiscussedandthedifferent In a separate proceeding, Stuart spending was also endorsed by the modesofcompensation.According Hughes, a land owner who will be Guyana RevenueAuthority (GRA) to the court document, Brassington affected by the pipeline moved to which had recommended to the raised the option of cash payment, the Court on February 6, 2023.The Ministry of Natural Resources for togetherwithaportionofStateland applicant in that matter is seeking theaudittoproceedtoclosure. situated in the Ogle, East Coast among other things, for the Order Despite this recommendation, Demerara. Dr Surujbally said he made under the Acquisition of Dr Jagdeo said he discovered that was receptive of this suggestion, LandsforPublicPurposesActtobe the ministry still entertained Exxon with the caveat that the greater declared null and void and of no inabreakdownofcosts,addingthat portion of the arrangement be cash legal effect as it relates to his this should not have occurred. payment. property Natural Resources Minister,

Following the meeting, his Vickram Bharrat also disclosed via lawyers in a letter dated February Boy 9, killed in Dazzell a statement that he supports the 21,2023,wrotetoBrassingtonwith Housing Scheme accident VP’s position. Bharrat said he an offer of settlement in the sum of played no part in those discussions G$100M with a cash payment of A teen driver, who reportedly withExxonbutitwashisstaffatthe G$60M and land at Ogle, valued drove-offinhisfather’scarwithout unitthatengagedin“unauthorized” G$40M. permission on Sunday, lost control discussions and an examination of

Dr Surujbally told the Court of the vehicle and struck down a documentssentbyExxon. that he and his lawyers are yet to nine-year-old boy, killing him on LiketheVicePresident,Bharrat receive the courtesy of a response, the spot at Dazzell Housing said he was of the opinion that the or an acknowledgement from Scheme,EastCoastDemerara. reduction in questionable costs, Brassington to this proposal DeadisDanielYearwood. subsequently channeled to him and Moreover,hesaidthattheStatehas Reports are that the errant the Vice President, was emanating made no formal offer or counter- driver was speeding when he lost from GRA. Bharrat said corrective offer of purchase or compensation control of the vehicle and slammed action has since been taken and his forhisland. into Yearwood; the car then staff has been told to cease such

He said he recognizes that the careenedintoanearbytrench. discussions. law gives the Government the Acellphonerecordedinterview

Contacted for an update on the power to acquire his property at scene depicted an inconsolable matter yesterday, Bharrat said no subject to strict compliance with woman, said to be Yearwood’s onehasbeenfired.Healsodeclined the Constitution and the law which mother, crying over the lost of her tonamethepersonswhowere protects his ownership rights. To son.

(Continued on page 16)

Former GECOM Chair, Dr. Steve Surujbally

The submerged car in the trench following the accident.

From page 15

WEDNESDAY partners.This meansthatnot engaged in “unauthorized” only did Guyana pay taxes discussions with Exxon IMF calls on countries for Exxon, but it also paid “Wearediligentlyreviewing to cut back on tax taxes on behalf of Hess this matter and we are in the breaks, subsidies Corporation and CNOOC. process of taking action to given to oil companies Publisher of Kaieteur News, e n s u r e t h e r e i s n o - as fossil fuel Glenn Lall had challenged reoccurrence,” the minister concessions surged to this concession, but High said. record US$7 trillion Court Judge, Nareshwar

Since the disclosure on - says scaling back Harnanan earlier this year, the mishandling of the audit would prevent 1.6 million threw out the case affirming process, Patterson and other premature deaths the legality of the stakeholders have been globally annually, raise government’s decision to calling for “heads to roll.” government revenues hand extensive tax waivers Patterson in particular by US$4.4 trillion to ExxonMobil and its believes the full truth about affiliates. In his application, thematterisnotbeingtoldto Fossil-fuel subsidies Mr Lall had contended the public and is now surged to a record US$7 among other things, that left in the babysitter’s car in 2016. In the article, the IMF challenging the government rogue elements, the world is trillion last year and the manyoftheprovisionslisted July 2023 from Monday- said its findings come as the to name those persons who watching, ” Patterson InternationalMonetaryFund under Article 15.1 of the Saturday given his parents’ World Meteorological w e r e p a r t o f t h e concluded. (IMF) is urging countries to PetroleumAgreement, dated busy work schedule In Organization says July was “unauthorized” discussions c u t b a c k o n t h e s e June 27, 2016 between the August, the babysitter the hottest month on record, with Exxon. “It is the least Babysitter arrested concessions. Inanewreport GOG and the oil companies, contacted Kortright and underscoringtheurgentneed Jagdeo and Minister Bharrat after 1-year-old dies released late last month grant exemptions to persons informed her that Raheem to curb human-induced can do, unless they want from head injuries titled” IMF Fossil Fuel other than licensees, which had fallen and hit his head. climate change. According citizens to think that they are Subsidies Data: 2023 violate the Petroleum The child was taken to the to the IMF, fuel subsidies protecting those who A 28-year-old babysitter Update” the bank said as the Exploration and Production GPHC with a swollen rose by US$2 trillion over contaminated this process,” has been arrested in world struggles to restrict Act (PEPA), and the forehead where he was the past two years as explicit Pattersonsaid. connection with the death of global warming to 1 5 Financial Administration treated and sent away in a subsidies (undercharging for

The politician further aone-year-oldchild. degrees Celsius and parts of (and Audit) Act. Lall had healthy condition. After that supply costs) more than notedthathefindsitdifficult Raheem Fung, of Asia, Europe and the United specifically flagged incident, the child remained doubled to US$1.3 trillion. to conceive that an entire Circuitville, Soesdyke-

States swelter in extreme paragraph 2 of Article 15.10 inthecareandcustodyofthe “That’s according to our department would risk their Linden Highway, died on heat, subsidies for oil, coal of the Agreement which 28-year-oldbabysitter. newspaper, which provides livelihood by engaging in Monday afternoon while and natural gas are costing states:“Notwithstandingany

On Friday, September updatedestimatesacross170 unapproved negotiations receiving treatment at the the equivalent of 7.1 percent provision to the contrary in 15, 2023 about 19:30 hours, countries of explicit and with ExxonMobil to reduce Georgetown Public Hospital of global gross domestic this Article, Affiliated the babysitter contacted i m p l i c i t s u b s i d i e s questionable sums. He said Corporation (GPHC) He

product. That’s more than Companies or Non-Resident Kortright to inform her that ( u n d e r c h a rg i n g f o r such a move could have cost was on life-support machine

governments spend annually Sub-Contractors shall not be Raheemhadcaughtaseizure environmental costs and the country over US$100M atGPHCaftersufferingfrom on education (4.3 percent of subject to the provisions of andlostconsciousness. forgoneconsumptiontaxes). thatisnowowedtoit. multipleheadinjuries. global income) and about the Income Tax Act (Cap Raheem was rushed to Tax breaks “ I s p o k e w i t h AccordingtotheGuyana

twothirdsofwhattheyspend 81:01) and Corporation Tax the Diamond Diagnostic WhileGuyanareceiveda ExxonMobil (Guyana PoliceForce(GPF),thechild on healthcare (10.9 percent), Act of Guyana (Cap 81:03) Center by his mother, where meagre US$94.5 million in Limited’s Head, Alistair was left in the care of the

the IMF said in the article during the expiration period hewasexaminedbyadoctor 2022 as royalty for its sweet Routledge) and he told me babysitter of Yarrowkabra, written by its staff, Simon on income earned in Guyana and transferred to GPHC, light crude in the Stabroek that there were several Soesdyke–LindenHighway. Black, Ian Parry, and Nate for any given tax year if the where he was admitted as a Block, the country gave discussions; it was a back K a i e t e u r N e w s Vernon. affiliated company or nonpatientintheICU. away US$290 million in and forth. So for that to be understands that little

The report comes amid a residentSub-Contractorshas

Thechildwasplacedona taxes to multinational oil happening in the ministry RaheemisthesonofRhonda local fight for the Guyana conducted business for one life-support machine as he corporation, ExxonMobil and Vickram didn’t know is Kortright and Kevin Fung, Government to get US oil hundred eighty-three (183) suffered from multiple head When the country signed the fishy You are telling me the who both reside at giant, ExxonMobil to pay its days or less on a cumulative injuries. lopsided Production Sharing minister was not copied in Circuitville. The babysitter, fair share of taxes. Guyana basis in the tax year of

On Monday afternoon, Agreement (PSA) with the any of the correspondence who has a one-year-old foregoes billions in taxes to assessment.” the police reported that oil company in 2016, it between his ministry and daughter, is reportedly the oil major annually due to As such, the newspaper Raheem succumbed to his agreed to pay the taxes on Exxon? That is not only KevinFung’sniece. a lopsided contract it signed publisher had requested injuries. behalf of the Stabroek Block i n c r e d i b l e b u t Raheem was reportedly with the company back in declarations from the Court unbelievable,” Patterson that the provisions are said. unlawful, null and void, and

TheShadowMinisterfor of no legal effect. However, the sector said Guyanese Justice Harnanan said the deserve to know which minister is vested with the persons within the ministry power under Section 51 of unit has engaged in such the PEPA and the Petroleum unethical discussions and if ( E x p l o r a t i o n a n d those discussions were Production) (Tax laws) to initiatedbyExxon.Patterson grant EEPGL, CNOOC also expressed worry about Nexen Petroleum Guyana the implications of the Limited, and Hess Guyana ministry’s actions He Exploration Limited, all reasoned that Exxon could companies that are parties to very well use the ministry’s the case, concessions of acceptance of over extensivetaxexemptions.

US$211M in expenses to Enormous weaken the country’s environmental costs position during arbitration. Meanwhile,theIMFsaid “Government should say consuming fossil fuels how it plans to deal with i m p o s e s e n o r m o u s this…heads should roll for e n v i r o n m e n t a l t h i s n a t i o n a l costs—mostly from local air embarrassment…Governme pollution and damage from nt has a duty to this nation to globalwarming.Itsaidthe expose and sanction the (Continued on page 57)

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson

Guyana Association of Georgia honours outstanding Guyanese

…awards scholarships at 32nd anniversary

It was another successful event for the United States (US) based Georgia Association of Guyana (GAOG) when it held its annual scholarship banquet on September 9, 2023 awarding some 11 high achievers with scholarships in various academic areas and honouring 14 business and community leaders for their hard work and dedication toservice.

The black tie affair which was held at the Georgia Piedmont Technical College Conference Centre in Indian Creek, Clarkston saw just fewer than 300 guests as the Association also celebrated 32 years of service to Guyanese at homeandintheDiaspora.

Under the 2023 theme, 'Continuing to create our future leaders',atleasttwoGuyana-based students received scholarships from kind donors and partners of the Association. Tinisha August is completingherpre-clinicalscience course in pursuit of her Doctor of Medicine at the Georgetown American University, located on Croal Street, Georgetown, while Tonessa Williams, a student of the New Amsterdam Technical Institute is pursuing studies in aeronautical engineering at theArt Williams Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School at the Eugene F Correia International Airport. Williams is the recipient of the Hugh Denbow scholarship. The scholarship is a token of the Denbow family in memory of the late Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) chairman who murdered in

PeaceSummit.

Other students received scholarships in the area of Arts, Marketing and Advertising, Business Administration, Humanities and Mechanical Engineering.

Three young people were recipients of the Book Award for theirdriveandpursuitintheirareas ofstudyand/orserviceprovidedin their particular field. Christopher Nelson who resides in Guyana is currently pursuing his Master's in Math Education at Georgia State University.Heissaidtohavebeen runningamathtutoringservicefor students in his hometown of Den Amstel and represented Guyana at the Global Robotics competition, with a passion for learning and development in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering

and Massay achieving her Bachelor'sDegree.

Additionally, Lawrence Prescott,abornGuyanesewhohad migrated to New York and later settled in Atlanta, Georgia, was honouredwiththeGAOGBusiness Awardforhismorethan35yearsof work in the entertainment industry as a photographer, producer, actor, cameramanandworkintheatreand film production.The recipient was highlighted for his involvement in many high-level productions and shows including basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal's Comedy All Starshow Prescotisthefounderof CaribbeanLifeTV

The Business Award of ExcellencewenttoAttorneyAlthea S. Prince Esq. Managing Attorney of the Prince Firm LLC which she founded in 2011. Attorney Prince

opinions for the Court.Theformer Georgetown resident serves on severalcommunityboards,andisa member of the GAOG and the Georgia Association of Black WomenAttorneys.

Judge Holly W Veal received GAOG's Award of Excellence

Following her departure from Guyana,VealattendedtheGeorgia State University where she received her bachelor's degree and then on to the University of Pittsburgh where she achieved her lawdegree.Foroveradecade,Veal practised in the areas of criminal prosecution and criminal defence until 2018 when she made history as the first woman and person of colour to sit on the Superior Court bench in Henry County where she resides.

Vealisalsoanactivememberof her community, serving on the boardoftheHandsofHope,anonprofit organisation which provides medicalservicetopersonsinneed. She is also a volunteer with the Miracle Mission Hope House.The young her a elementary hinterland and fairs

Olivia Osborne (right) was the recipient of the Hugh Denbow scholarship

ABC 11Eyewitness News reporter Monique John was the evening's keynote speaker

GAOG President Merlyn Osborne and City of Stone Crest Mayor Jazzmin Cobble

Asection of the attendees at the GAOG scholarship banquet

Guyana's oil website missing two years of well drilling data, other critical info

Guyana's Petroleum ManagementProgrammehas beenfallingshortoffulfilling its transparency mandate in multipleregards,astwoyears

ofwelldrillingdatahavenot beenuploadedtothesite.

The Ministry of Natural Resources which manages the website had pointed out

last year that it was up since 2021, for the purpose of informing the public about developmentsinthesector It appears that, since the

website was operationalised, noonehasbeenupdatingthe section on well activities. The last well information available on the website is

about the Turbot-2 well, where ExxonMobil announced a discovery in September 2021 - two years ago.

Since then, ExxonMobil has drilled more than 15 exploration and appraisal wells, and continues to execute a very active campaign CGX Energy's Kawa-1 and Wei-1 wells are not reflected on the site. Neither is Repsol's BeebeiPotaro well, which was drilledlastyear Asforwells in which discoveries were made, there is no indication ofthesizeofthediscovery

Apart from a heap of missing information on well activities, several other sections of the website are missing crucial information fromthepasttwoyears.

Onesectionisforuploads of Monthly and Quarterly reports of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) However, the last report uploaded was for September 2021 The website is therefore missing more than 30 NRF reports from subsequent months and quarters. Nevertheless, the updated NRF reports are available on the website of theBankofGuyana.

One section for Events, lists the latest event as a GuyanaOilandGasSummit from July 2021, despite numerous other high profile oil conferences and forums organisedand/orattendedby thegovernment.

Another section of the website, established for Ministerial speeches and presentations, includes only two pieces from Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, from September 2020.

The website, altogether, isinasorrystate.Apartfrom periodic uploads of procurement opportunities and oil production data; no one seems to have been entrusted with the job of maintaining the information flow on the website, to keep the Guyanese public and the industryin-the-know Even with respect to oil productiondata,theMinistry ofNaturalResourcesisyetto fix its problematic user interface.Aboutamonthago, all of the data had disappeared from the site. After Kaieteur News reportedtheissue,thegraphs werereturnedtothesite.But its functionality was so reduced that the oil production data became unreadable.

Several days ago, the Ministry added oil production data for the monthofAugust2023,butit wasauselessuploadbecause of the format in which it has beenpresented.

The Ministry had acknowledgedseveralweeks ago that there were issues, but up to September 23, the graph interface was not returned to its previous interactivestate.

“It’snevertoolatetogobacktoschool” Single mother says after attaining five CSEC subjects

When33-year-oldsingle m o t h e r , L a z a n a Hollingsworth decided that she wanted to return to schooltowritetheCaribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC), her top choice to do so was the Morgan Learning Centre (MLC).

Theprivateschoolwhich offers classes to adults through its lessons facility has a track record of churning top CSEC performers

H o l l i n g s w o r t h nevertheless faced a unique set of challenges She explained: “I work for a shipping company where I driveanddodeliveryallday; Ihavetotakecareofmyson anditnoteasybutImadethe tough choice of returning to school,”shesaid.

Hollingsworth told Kaieteur News that this was her second attempt at the exams. She sat CSEC in 2008 but she was not successful The young mother related that her family was experiencing a lot of issues at the time, and as a result, her education suffered.

“Back then, I wasn’t really focusing on school. Coming from a home with seven siblings and a single mother; I saw my mom struggling all the time so I decided when I get the opportunitytowork,Iwould work to help her out,” she said.

As a result, she said that she put her studies on the backburner “EventuallyasI started to make money, I forgot all about the books. I said to myself, ‘I’m making money and I’m getting to buy the stuff I need that my mom couldn’t afford at that time so I didn’t see the need tostudy,”shesaid.

As time progressed, the young mother said that she startedtodevelopadesireto domoreforherself.

“IhavemysonandIwant to be a good role model for him and also I wanted more for myself but get that more that I wanted for myself, I knew I had to go back to school.”

C o n s e q u e n t l y , Hollingsworth decided to join the classes at Morgan’s LearningCentre.

“I came to Sir Morgan andIhadtodoaninterview Being the very busy person that Sir Morgan is, I had to come back a few times before we actually did the interviewandacceptedme,” sherelated.

The young mother said that she was challenged to stay focused on her goals of completingtheexams.Many times, she said she felt like giving up especially when shefaceddifficulties.

“At first, it was very challengingbecauseIhavea son and being single mom, I had to find the time to take him to school then work all day then attend classes. It was very difficult but I had help from my family,” she said Adding that the sacrifices included long hours of study after a hard dayof work.

Hollingsworth noted the journey started to get more difficulttowardstheend.

“The extra class and hour, the job that I do requiresmetobeontheroad 24/7 driving Imagine driving all day, then having to take my son home till at Success on the East Coast thenhavetodrivedownback to go to class. It was really tough.”

Hollingsworth said that Morganwouldoftenoffer

Continuedonpage65

Single mother, Lazana Hollingsworth

Sir Orin Morgan and some of the adult students of MLC.

O’StatiaSimon

“Being

Indigenousisa blessinglikenoother,”are thewordsofnativebeauty O’StatiaSimon.O’Statiaisa descendantoftheArawaknation whohailsfromSt.Cuthbert’s/Pakuri RegionFour The19-year-oldis currentlyafinalyearstudentatthe UniversityofGuyana,pursuingaBSc. inPublicManagement.Additionally, O’StatiaworksalongwiththeGiving HealthtoKids(GHTK)Organization ofwhichstrivestoensureall newbornswithinthecountryare givenallthecarethatis needed. (Credit: The Nine Nations Facebook page)

Inquests: Unraveling the Mysteries of Deaths

The police officer proceedings, including involved in accident was placed summoning witnesses to testify underopenarrest. aboutthecircumstancesleadingto

Inquests involve a series of go home

On October 18, 2021, it was the death, gathering and reported that the DPP ordered an examining evidence, including inquest into the death of Roy medical reports and forensic Boston, the young man who was evidence,determiningthecauseof fatally stabbed at Swan Village, death based on the available Soesdyke, Linden, back inAugust evidence and providing a verdict ofthatyear. or findings, which may include a

On August 21, 2021, Boston determination of suicide, was killed after he allegedly homicide, accidental death, or stabbed three of his drinking naturalcauses. partners during a brawl at a rum

The Act defines the role of a shopinSwanVillage. coroner, who is typically a It was reported that sometime magistrate or a legal professional. around 22:15 hours that day; the Coroners are responsible for young man was among his family conducting inquests into deaths andfriendsatashopwhenaheated thatfallundertheirjurisdiction. argumentturneddeadly Inquests, as legal inquiries

By Renay Sambach

Coroners have the authority to

Basedoninformationreceived

According to the reports, the Like in many countries, in

conducted by a coroner or summon witnesses to testify from the police, 18-year-old magistrate, hold a pivotal place in during the inquest. Witnesses can Bostonhadpulledaknifeanddealt the Guyanese legal system, aimed include individuals who have one of the men there a stab to his at discerning the circumstances information related to the left side waist and another to his and causes surrounding sudden, circumstances leading to the leftsideback. unexpected, or suspicious deaths. death.

Also, medical evidence, deceased began to curse everyone Guyana,theseproceedingsservea including post-mortem reports, who was imbibing and thereafter, critical role and are governed by may be presented during the he and the suspect had a scuffle. specific laws and procedures that inquesttoassistindeterminingthe The reports further revealed that e n s u r e t r a n s p a r e n c y , causeofdeath. the teen received a stab wound to accountability,andjustice.

In certain cases, a jury may be his left side chest and a cut to his In Guyana, the primary empanelledtoassistthecoronerin right thumb. The injured teen was purpose of an inquest is to shed reachingaverdict.Thejurylistens rushed to the Diamond Hospital light on the cause and towitnesses’testimoniesandhelps where he was pronounced dead by circumstances enveloping an determine the facts surrounding adoctor individual’s demise The thedeath.

On August 7, 2021, it was investigation seeks to uncover

At the conclusion of the r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e D P P whether the death occurred due to inquest, the coroner delivers a recommended an inquest into the natural causes, accident, suicide, verdict or findings This can death of father of three, Anthony homicide, or remains shrouded in include a determination of Pakamram of Providence, East undetermined reasons It’s whether the death was due to BankDemerara.OnJuly25,lastat important to emphasize that natural causes, accident, suicide, Lot 3 Old Road, Providence, inquests are not criminal trials; homicide, or other circumstances. Pakamram was killed with the they are meticulously crafted factThe verdict provides clarity very knife, which he had armed findinginvestigations. regardingthecauseofdeath. himself with while he and his

Inquests are typically held in

In some instances, the coroner personorentity reportedthattheDirectorofPublic reputedwifewerearguing. cases of suspicious deaths, deaths may make recommendations Inquests play a pivotal role in Prosecutions(DPP),ShalimarAli- According to a police report, in custody or police-related aimed at preventing similar deaths the Guyanese legal landscape, Hack,SC,hasadvisedpolicethata thedeceasedhadahistoryofbeing deaths, deaths resulting from orimprovingsafetymeasures. e n s u r i n g t r a n s p a r e n c y, Coroner’s Inquest be conducted violent towards his reputed wife accidents or disasters and deaths

Inquests are generally accountability,andjusticeincases intothedeathof12-year-oldKayla whom he had an 11-year underunexplainedcircumstances. conducted in public, allowing the of unexplained or suspicious Barnabus. relationship. The day before the

In Guyana, the CoronersAct is media and interested parties to deaths They offer closure to As reported on, Barnabus was tragicincident,itwasreportedthat the primary legal framework that attend and report on the grieving families and hold the the West Demerara Secondary t h e c o u p l e h a d a governsinquests.TheActoutlines proceedings However, certain p o t e n t i a l t o i n s t i g a t e Schoolstudentwhowasstruckand misunderstanding, which led to the powers and responsibilities of sensitive information may be improvementsinpublicsafetyand killedbyapolicevehiclealongthe Pakamram to physically assault coroners, who are typically restrictedfrompublicdisclosure. healthcarepractices. Goed Fortuin Public Road, earlier thewoman. magistrates or legal professionals, Notably, the findings of an

INQUEST ORDERED thismonth.

Kaieteur News reportedthaton inconductingtheseinquiries. inquest can influence subsequent (The following reports are on It was reported that on June 1, day of the incident, around

TheCoronersActinGuyanais legal actions. For example, if an initial stories published by 2022, sometime around 15:45hrs, 15:30hrs, the man had returned to a crucial piece of legislation that inquest finds evidence of criminal Kaieteur News on inquest being Barnabus was struck by a police the woman’s residence where outlines the procedures and conduct, it may lead to criminal ordered) vehicle while attempting to cross another altercation happened, responsibilities associated with charges being filed against a On June 19, 2022, it was the Goed Fortuin Public Road to whichendedwithhisdeath. conductinginquests.

Dead, Kayla Barnabus

Dead, Anthony “Max” Pakamram

Dead, Roy Boston

Do Caribbean countries need a new social contract?

BySirRonaldSanders

(ThewriterisAntiguaand Barbuda's Ambassador to the United States and the OrganizationofAmerican States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of CommonwealthStudiesat the University of London andMasseyCollegeinthe UniversityofToronto.The views expressed are entirelyhisown.)

Recentfindingsby the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) ring alarm bells for the global community: democratic governance is under threat, withanincreasingnumberof people subjected to authoritarian regimes that bluntly infringe on human rightsandfreedoms.

While authoritarian regimes are emerging, detainingoppositionfigures, muzzling the media, and instillingfear,theirsocieties are fragmenting and their economies are weakening, making them less able to satisfy the basic needs of their people, millions of whom are fleeing to other lands.

Their hold on power is buttressed by fear and the capacityofgoverningparties tokeepthemilitaryloyalby actsofunusualgenerosityto leading figures and even to the institutions themselves. But as the adage goes, “Uneasy lies the head that wearstheCrown”.

Comfort in leadership is best and most sustainably derivedfromthewishofthe people, by their informed votes cast at free, fair and transparent elections which areobservedbyinternational organizations.

Itoughtnottorestonthe vestedinterestsofafewwho benefit from the imposed structuresofpower

True democracy nourishes human rights, ensuresvoicesareheard,and confronts past injustices to fosterapromisingfuture.

In this connection, governmentsthatupholdthe rule of law, human and political rights, and the freedoms of speech and dissent are more likely to guidetheircountriestowards political stability, social advancement,andeconomic development.

Yet, challenges abound. The rise of misinformation and disinformation,

exacerbatedbyfakenewson social media platforms, corrodes the fabric of democraticsocieties.

This isn't just about inaccurate information; it's about using disinformation and misinformation as strategic ploys to mislead andharmsocieties.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has expressed great concern about the use of misinformation and disinformation in societies. Whilemisinformationrefers totheunintentionalspreadof inaccurate information, disinformation is not just inaccurate–itiscraftedwith the intent to deceive and cause harm, including racehate and reputational damage.

All societies have to be alert to both misinformation and disinformation, questioning the accuracy of what they see and hear on socialmediaplatforms.

The established media also have a responsibility to point out when false information is being spread on social media, and not to fall into the trap of themselves providing platforms for flawed and unsubstantiatedcharges.

In light of this, governments owe it to both themselves and their societies to maximize transparency and access to information,inordertobuild trust in public institutions, governance, and processes. As Secretary General Guterresputit,“theyshould also encourage public participationatalllevelsand enablemeaningfuldialogues anddebates”.

On the link between d e m o c r a c y a n d development, robust democraciesaremagnetsfor investments.

T h e y f o s t e r a n environment of stability, predictability, and trust—cornerstones for any thrivingeconomy

However, the quality of life of the people is inextricably tied to these economicrealities.

H e n c e , a t t h e intersection of democracy and development lies the urgent task of eradicating extreme poverty, elevating living standards, and ensuring that the fruits of economic growth are equitablyshared.

Democracy has not fully achieved these goals, but authoritarian regimes have

not attained them at all, particularly since, in their pursuit, the essential elements of human participation in decisions havebeenabsent.

But democracies cannot rest on their laurels, having succeeded in creating societies where democracy i s u p h e l d a n d institutionalised,throughthe separation of powers between the executive, the legislature and the judiciary, agreaturgencynowexiststo narrowthegapsbetweenthe rich and the poor, within nations and between them, by upgrading the quality of humanlife.

The Caribbean, with a fewexceptions,standsoutas a beacon in upholding democratictenets.

However, underlying issues such as high unemployment and escalatingcostsoflivingcan spark civil unrest, necessitating forwardlookingmeasures.

To navigate these crossroads, Caribbean countries must forge a renewed contract of democracy one that not only pays homage to our tumultuous past in overcoming the bitter legacies of slavery, indentured labour,

colonialism and imperialism,butalso illuminates a path of hope, equity, and prosperityforall.

Inits2022reportonthe G l o b a l S t a t e o f Democracy, IDEAposited that democracies require a new social contract between political actors and civil societygroups.

IDEAproposedthatthis contract should be reconceptualized to reflect today's reality, addressing new and evolving public needsanddemands.

This concept is already being addressed in several countries through citizens'

assemblies, governmental dialogue mechanisms and new constitutions which allow for greater power sharing and structures for wider participation in decision-making. Itisaconceptthatmight be energetically considered byallintheCaribbean.

Responsesandprevious c o m m e n t a r i e s : www.sirronaldsanders.com

Sir. Ronald Sanders

Taylor Swift and Sophie Turner hanging out amidst split from Joe Jonas

Beloved Jamaican reggae artiste

Buju Banton releases new album

Reggae legend Buju Banton ushered in his latest musical chapter amidst a heartfelt gathering,sharingthelimelightofhisnewest album, Born For Greatness, with fans, friends, and industry bigwigs at Di Lot on Constant Spring Road, St. Andrew last Saturday

The venue, swathed in the emblematic black and gold colours of this chapter of Banton’s journey, was a testament to his prominenceinthereggaearena.

In a move that speaks volumes about the artist’s affinity with his fans, Banton’s team revealed to The Jamaica STAR that, instead of an exclusive launch, the Gargamel opted foraninclusivesoiree.

“He didn’t want to publicize the launch but he told us not to turn his fans away, so really everyone is welcome tonight,” Banton’spublicistsaid.

Taylor Swift and Sophie Turner are

The two do have a bit in common. For hanging out again in New York City, their starters, they’ve both been in relationships second outing together this week amid the with Jonas, who is rumored to be the subject GameOfThronesstar’ssplitfromJoeJonas. of Swift’s “Mr Perfectly Fine.” The pop

Just a couple nights after the two ladies superstar dated the Disney alum for a few were first spotted arm-in-arm outside Via months in 2008, and Turner married him in Carota in the West Village, Swift and Turner 2019.

were seen arriving separately at a restaurant

Afterfouryearsofmarriage,however,the inTribecaThursdayevening(Sept.21). formercouplepostedajointstatementSept.6

Fans on Twitter are absolutely living for confirming that they’d “mutually decided to the ladies’ repeated girls’ nights out. “taylor amicablyend”theirrelationship. leftdinnerwithsophielastnightandwaslike Thisweek,inbetweenspendingtimewith ‘you know what? more of the girls need to Swift, Turner filed a lawsuit against Jonas, hear the tea. are you free tomorrow’and then accusing him of preventing their 3-year-old boom,”jokedone. and1-year-olddaughtersfromreturningwith

“Y’ALL SOPHIE AND TAYLOR hertotheirfamilyhomeinEngland.

WERE TOGETHER AGAIN??” wrote Willaandheryoungersister,whosename anotherastonishedfan. hasnotbeenmadepublic,havebeentraveling

It seems the pop star and actress are with Joe and uncles Kevin and Nick on the becoming fast friends IRLfollowing years of Jonas Brothers’ ongoing world tour, a setup supporting each other online, at one point Turner insisted in her suit was “temporary.” crossing paths in 2019 as co-guests on The Inherfiling,theactressalsoallegesthatJonas GrahamNortonShow isrefusingtorelinquishtheirpassports.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Share First Photos of Baby

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Share First Photos of Baby Son Riot Rose

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are introducing their newborn son to the world. The couple welcomed their newborn son in AugustandarealreadyparentstosonRZA,16months.

The “Umbrella” singer, 35, and her rapper partner, 34, posedforaseriesofadorablephotosthatfeaturedthecouple’s newbornbaby,sonRiotRose,aswellassonRZA,16months.

In the pictures, Rihanna holds baby Riot while Rocky carriesRZAonhisshoulders,posingtogetherforthefirsttime as a family of four RZA, who wears the newly released FENTY x Puma Avanti in aged silver, looks adorable in a miniatureleatherjacket.Themusicianandmomoftwoisalso photographed carrying her newborn alone as she leans up againstacar Additionalpicturesshowthecoupleplayingwith Riotonablanketashesweetlysmilesupathisparents.

Rihanna revealed the exciting news that she was expecting another baby in the opening moments of her Super Bowl performance in February, rubbing her stomach and leaving the zipper of her outfit a jumpsuit layered over a close-fitting bodysuitandsculptedbandeau downtorevealherbelly “She lovesbeingamomsothisiswherehermindisatthemoment,”a source told PEOPLE in February about Rihanna’s parenting style “Sheisthehappiestshehaseverbeen ”

As signature cocktails, titled Born for Greatness and Sip Sip Sip, coursed through the evening, DJs led by Richie Feelings piloted the gathering through Banton’s intriguing anecdotes about his song illustrious past works and the broader inspirations. dancehallgenre.

Describing the essence of Born for

Without much delay, the Gargamel, Greatness, he said, “This album Born for resplendent in an eggshell-hued cashmere Greatness comprise of 17 tracks.Tracks that vestpairedwithmustardtrousers,gracedthe range from music fi men you meditate and stage, sharing insights from his album’s see things, tell you things weh no one else creationjourney nah tell you, cause that’s the purpose of this

With heartfelt gratitude, Banton music.” addressedthecrowd,“Bigupmipeopledem, Acknowledging the brevity of the me love unuh… a the music me talk to unuh evening, Banton quipped about the through and if the music not speaking to the impossibility of diving deep into all 17 peopleswenoteffective.” tracks. However, he made a swift exit,

With Richie Feelings by his side, he ensuring his message of resilience and teased the audience with snippets from his reinventionresonatedwiththeaudience. newalbum. “We’re born for greatness, not only me,

True to his dynamic style, he alternated all ah we,” he concluded, reminding between a cappella renditions and track- everyone of their inherent worth and assisted performances, sprinkling in potential.

Nicki Minaj’s husband Kenneth Petty placed on house arrest after threatening Offset in video

Kenneth Petty, husband tying the knot with Minaj in of rap star Nicki Minaj, has October later that year, but been placed on house arrest a c c o r d i n g t o c o u r t after threatening Migos documents, he knowingly rapper Offset in a recent failed to register as a sex video. Footage of Petty and offender as required by the friends threatening Offset Sex Offender Registration began circulating on social and Notification Act media last week with a pair (SORNA) Petty turned of clips. In the video, the himself in to federal custody group appears to be standing in March 2020 after not outsideabuildingOffsetwas registering his sex offender staying at. “Offset, where status in California, the U.S. you at?” Petty says in one Marshals Service confirmed clip, according to video to USA TODAY at the time. obtained by the X account He subsequently pleaded MrPopOfficial.Afriendlater on video making threatening register as a sex offender in guilty in 2021, per NBC and adds, “Plan that vacation, remarks towards a specific July2022.Hewasorderedto CBS. Offset’s wife, rapper (you’re)goingtobeplanning individual while in the pay a $55,000 fine, in Cardi B, had a highlyyourfuneral.” company of someone with a addition to spending three publicized hip-hop rivalry

In a petition filed criminalrecord,”thepetition yearsonprobationandayear with Minaj after Cardi Wednesday in the Central read “Placement in the inhomedetention,according gained mainstream success District of California U.S. Location Monitoring to reports from NBC and with her 2018 debut album District Court, a probation Program will effectively CBSLosAngelesatthetime. “InvasionofPrivacy.” officer requested Petty to allow for closer monitoring

“We appreciate and Therivalryculminatedin participate in a home ofMr Petty’sactivities,limit respect the court’s decision afightbetweentherappersat detention program for a his movements, provide a granting the defense request a New York Fashion Week period of up to 120 days as a sanction for his non- for probation and home partyinSeptember2018that result of his threat toward compliance, and hopefully confinement,” Petty’s left Cardi B injured. Video Offset in the video. The encourage him to reflect attorneys Michael Goldstein circulating on social media program may include upon and reevaluate his and Hagop Kuyumjian said showed the “Bongos” emcee “electronic monitoring, current status in the in a statement to USA lungingtowardsomeoneand GPS, Alcohol Monitoring community.” TODAY following the being held back at Harper’s U n i t o r a u t o m a t e d Petty was previously sentence. Bazaar Icons party Cardi identificationsystem.” sentenced to probation and Petty moved to Los also reportedly threw one of “Mr Petty was recorded house arrest for failing to Angeles in July 2019 before hershoesatMinaj.

Jamaican artiste Buju Banton

New besties: Taylor Swift and Sophie Turner

Nicki Minaj and her husband Kenneth Petty

Interesting Creatures...Aye-ayes

National Geographic- lives in rain forest trees and insectdiet. Aye-ayes can be found only avoid coming down to earth. Many people native to on the island of Madagascar. They are nocturnal, and Madagascar consider the These rare animals may not spend the day curled up in a aye-aye an omen of ill luck. look like primates at first ball-like nest of leaves and For this reason, they often glance,buttheyarerelatedto branches. The nests appear have been killed on sight. chimpanzees, apes, and asclosedsphereswithsingle Such hunting, coupled with humans. entry holes, situated in the habitat destruction, has put Aye-ayes are dark brown forksoflargetrees. aye-aye populations at-risk. o r b l a c k a n d a r e While perched aloft, the Today they are protected by distinguished by a bushy tail aye-aye taps on trees with its law that is larger than their body long middle finger and Source of Information: They also feature big eyes, listens for wood-boring (https://www nationalgeogr slender fingers, and large, insect larvae moving under aphic.com/animals/mammal sensitiveears.Aye-ayeshave thebark.Itemploysthesame s/facts/aye-aye) pointed claws on all their middle finger to fish them fingers and toes except for out.

their opposable big toes, The digit is also useful which enable them to dangle for scooping the flesh out of frombranches. coconutsandotherfruitsthat

Aye-ayes spend their supplement the animal’s

This week in History

Prime-time American television news show 60 minutes debuted

September24

networks. 60 Minutes placed in Nielsen’s

60 Minutes, prime-time American annual top 10 for a record 23 consecutive television news show It debuted on seasons and has won more Emmy Awards September241968onCBSandhasbecome thananyotherprime-timeprogram. one of the most successful programs in In each episode of 60 Minutes, broadcasthistory correspondentsofferin-depthreportingona range of issues of national interest, from politicstoentertainment.

The topics may originate in-house as reporter-driven pieces, or they may involve current events already receiving media attention. The correspondents have earned strong reputations and numerous awards for gaining unique access to sources and interviewees and for delivering compelling information. The program’s best-known reporter, the often tenacious Mike Wallace, worked as a full-time correspondent from 1968 to 2006, and during that time, he won 20 Emmy Awards and three Peabody Awards Other correspondents have included Dan Rather, Morley Safer, Lesley Stahl, Ed Bradley, Scott Pelley, Bob Simon, Steve Kroft, Lara Logan,Anderson Cooper, NorahO’Donnell,andJonWertheim.

The show typically operates according to a fixed format, usually combining two

Created by Don Hewitt and grounded in serious news investigations with a personal investigative journalism, 60 Minutes is profile or human-interest story. From 1979 television’s longest continually running to 2011 Andy Rooney delivered a light or prime-time series. The first of the so-called comedic commentary at the end of most TV news magazines, the program has episodes. At different times in the past, the become the industry standard for television show included a point-counterpoint journalism and has influenced similar (but segment, offering a conservative and a less successful) programs on other liberalperspectiveonatopic.

Trinidad and Tobago officially became a Republic

September24

Republic Day is one of the public holidays in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T). It is celebrated on September 24 to commemorate the day Trinidad and Tobago became a republic. On August 1, 1962, Trinidad and Tobago achieved full independence from the United Kingdom as a Commonwealth realm.

T&T is the southernmost island country in the Caribbean. Consisting of the main islands Trinidad and Tobago and numerous much smaller islands,itissituated11kilometres(6.8 republicin1976. miles) off the coast of northeastern Trinidad and Tobago has the 5th highest Venezuela and 130 kilometres (81 miles) GDP per capita based on Purchasing Power south of Grenada It shares maritime Parity (PPP) in theAmericas for a sovereign boundaries with Barbados to the east, state after the United States, Canada, The Grenada to the northwest, Saint Vincent and Bahamas and Guyana as of 2022. It is the Grenadines to the north and Venezuela to recognised by the World Bank as a high- the south and west. The island country’s income economy Unlike most Caribbean capital is Port of Spain, while its largest and nations and territories, which rely heavily on mostpopulouscityisSanFernando. tourism, the economy is primarily industrial

The island of Trinidad was inhabited for with an emphasis on petroleum and centuries by Indigenous peoples before petrochemicals;[18] much of the nation’s becoming a colony in the Spanish Empire, wealthisderivedfromitslargereservesofoil following the arrival of Christopher andnaturalgas. Columbus, in 1498. Spanish governor José TrinidadandTobagoiswellknownforits María Chacón surrendered the island to a African and Indian cultures, reflected in its British fleet under the command of Sir Ralph large and famous Carnival, Diwali, and Abercromby in 1797.Trinidad and Tobago Hosay celebrations, as well being the were ceded to Britain in 1802 under the birthplace of steelpan, the limbo, and music Treaty of Amiens as separate states and styles such as calypso, soca, rapso, parang, unified in 1889 Trinidad and Tobago chutney,andchutneysoca. obtained independence in 1962, becoming a

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg is awarded by the Government

September25

Greta Thunberg, in full Greta Tintin EleonoraErnmanThunberg,(bornJanuary3, refusingtotravelbyairplane.(Bothlivestock 2003, Stockholm, Sweden), Swedish andairplanesemitalargeamountofthegases environmental activist who worked to thatcontributetoglobalwarming.) address the problem of climate change, Seeking to make a greater impact, founding (2018) a movement known as Thunberg attempted to spur lawmakers into Fridays for Future (also called School Strike addressing climate change. For almost three for Climate). On September 25, 2019, weeks prior to the Swedish election in Thunberg is named as one of four September2018,shemissedschoolto winners of the 2019 R outside the country’s Livelihood Award, known parliament with a sign that Sweden’s alternative Nobel stated “Skolstrejk för Prize. Klimatet”(SchoolStrikefor Thunberg’s mother was Climate). Although alone an opera singer, and her for the first day of the father was an actor Greta strike, she was joined each was diagnosed with subsequent day by more Aspergersyndrome,which and more people, and her is now considered an story garnered international autism spectrum disorder attention. After the election, (ASD). It is characterized by Thunberg returned to school abnormalities in soc but continued to skip classes on interactions (as in classic autism) Fridays to strike, and these days but with normal intelligence and were called Fridays for Future. Her languagedevelopment.PeoplewithAsperger action inspired hundreds of thousands of syndrometendtofocusdeeplyononeideaor students around the world to participate in interest, and Thunberg’s cause became their own Fridays for Future. Strikes were climate change. She first learned about the held in such countries as Belgium, Canada, issue when she was approximately eight the United States, the United Kingdom, yearsold,andwithinafewyearsshechanged Finland, Denmark, France, and the her own habits, becoming a vegan and Netherlands. (Britannica)

American actress Hilary Duff was born

Born September 28, (2003).

1987, Hilary Erhard Duff is Thereafter, she an American actress, author appeared in numerous and singer She is the mainstream films such as recipient of various Cadet Kelly (2002), Agent accolades, including seven Cody Banks (2003), Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Cheaper by the Dozen Awards, four Teen Choice (2003), and A Cinderella Awards, and two Young Story (2004) She later running original series Artist Awards. She began appeared in independent Younger, for which she her acting career at a young films playing a wider range received two People’s age, quickly being labeled a of adult-themed roles, such C h o i c e A w a r d s teen idol as the title as War, Inc (2008), nominations. Between 2022 character in the Disney According to Greta (2009), and 2023, she has produced Channel comedy series Bloodworth(2011),andThe and starred as Sophie L i z z i e M c G u i r e Haunting of Sharon Tate Tompkins in the Hulu (2001–2004) and in the film (2019). From 2015 to 2021, sitcom How I Met Your based on the series, The Duff starred as Kelsey Father Lizzie McGuire Movie PetersinTVLand’slongest- (source: wikepedia)

Las Vegas: welcome sign

Mass shooting in Las Vegas

October1

On October 1, 2017, a mass shooting occurred when 64-year-old Stephen Paddock opened fire on the crowdattendingtheRoute91 Harvest music festival on the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada from his 32nd-floor suites in theMandalayBayhotel.

He fired more than 1,000 bullets, killing 60 people[a] andwoundingatleast413.

(Continued on page 39)

Trinidad and Tobago waterfront

Greta Thunberg

Actress Hillary Duff

ADOPTED CARICOM STANDARD OUTLINES

REQUIREMENTS FOR LOCALLY MADE CASSAVA BREAD

In Guyana, cassava bread holds a Cassava bread, also called Eki, Beiju, Specific requirements of the standard TheGNBSencouragesmakersofcassava cherished place in the hearts, diets, and Baad, Alehpah and Kali in the various include that cassava bread must be crisp and bread to acquire a copy of the standard at an traditions of many Indigenous communities. Indigenous languages, has deep roots in uniformed in texture and appearance, free affordable cost, and work to conform to its This age-old food staple, derived from the Guyana’s Indigenous cultures and from any odor, fungus or molds, traces of requirementstoenhancetheirproductquality cassava root has not only served as Amerindian communities, and while it has insects or rodent infestation, or any rancid and consistency for consumer satisfaction. sustenance but also as a symbol of cultural longbeenadietarystaple,theintroductionof flavours. As the commodity is made from Interested persons can also visit our identity which is in keeping with the theme thisstandardisasignificantstepforward. bittercassava,thestandardalsospecifiesthat Standards Portal via www.gnbsguy.comto for this year’s Amerindian Heritage Month: Conforming to standards is not just about it must be free from any bitter or unpleasant learnmoreaboutthestandard.

“Sustaining our Cultural Heritage and ensuringquality Standardsplayapivotalrole taste.Thestandardalsocoverspackagingand InGuyanaandthroughouttheCaribbean, Identity while contributing to One in the world of food production by providing hygiene during production and sampling. cassava bread is consumed as a light snack Guyana.” a framework for consistency, quality Hygienicconditionsincluderequirementsfor andwhileitisusuallyservedwithpepperpot,

The Guyana National Bureau of assurance,safetyandmarketaccess. thepremisesandequipmenttobemaintained, tuma pot or other stews. Cassava bread can Standards adopted the CARICOM Regional

The CRS 19:2010 Standard specifies the cleaned and sanitized to ensure also be paired toasted with cheese, peanut Standard, CRS 19:2010 – “Specification for requirements for Cassava Bread and its contaminationisminimized. butter,jamsandotherspreads. Cassava Bread” as a National Standard, to related products to ensure adequate and Persons preparing the product are also For more information, contact the align the making of this Indigenous food hygienic production, and acceptable product required to meet all national health GNBS on Tel: 219-0064-66 or visit our productwithmodern-qualityassurance. qualityandsafetyforhumanconsumption. requirementstohandlefoodproducts. website:www.gnbsgy.org

Tacuma worm are a good source of protein

It is considered a delicacy in many Indigenouscommunitiesandannuallyduring Indigenous heritage month celebrations, eating the Tacuma worm becomes a topical issue.Itcanalsobecomedebatable.

From Mabaruma in the North West District,downalongthecoastlandtoOrealla, west to the Cuyuni/Mazaruni, south to the Rupununi and right along the Soesdyke LindenHighway,theTacumawormhasbeen tested, tasted and remains a teaser at Indigenous villages. The worm is actually

butteryandisagoodsourceofproteingivenit feedsoffofthepalmtrees,itsnaturalhabitat.

Whereisitfound?

ButtheTacumawormisnotfoundinjust anypalm;itisharvestedfromtheItepalmtree andcanbedifficulttosource.Theidealtreeis usually found by a skillful Indigenous villager who has many years of experience scouring the forest in search of the worm. After finding the tree, it is felled and left to decayforaperiodoftime;thetimelapsecan stretchforweeks.

Afterthetimeelapses,thestalkofthetree is chopped to precision by skilled villagers and out comes the larvae. They are then retrieved and placed in a container; in some cases, it is placed in the leaves of trees and ferriedbacktothevillagesorthestalkofthe tree is chopped into chunks, packed with the worms,andtakenbacktothevillage.

Eatingtheworm

This is where some hesitate, some becomeexcitedorsomemaywishtoexplore theircuriosity Atsomeheritagecelebrations at villages in the Hinterland, persons would

lookonasthewormscrawlaround,readyto bedevoured.Theycaneitherbebeateninthe rawstate,roastedoveranopenfireorthrown into a frying pan for a few minutes before consumption.Somearesometimescookedin stewsbythosewhosimplywanttogarnerthe tasteofthelarva.

Eatingthewormintherawstateremains the most popular option. It is where persons test their bravery In a normal home setting, onemayconsumethewigglycreatureinone swallow.However,pictureagroupoffriends, especially males, gathered around a bowl of worms at the annual September, Indigenous heritagecelebrationsattheSophiaExhibition Complex.Anditisyourturntoconsumethe worm,butyouarenotsureyourstomachcan handlethepressure.

However, the scenario ends, eating the Tacumawornremainsatopicalissue,andas social media's influence on societies continues to grow, consuming the 'yummy' creature will remain a popular adventure, or in some cases, an experience to always remember

BritishHighCommissioner toGuyana,JaneMillertries theTacumaworm.

(Credit:BritishHighCommissioner toGuyana.JaneMiller)

The Tacuma worm is considered a delicacy by some.

(Credit: Xavier Henry)

Mass shooting in Las Vegas

From page 31 automatic firearms Bump stocks were

The ensuing panic brought the total number banned by the U.S. Justice Department in of injured to approximately 867. About an December 2018, but the constitutionality of hour later, he was found dead in his room the ban remained under review until 2022, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The when the U.S. Supreme Court declined to motive for the shooting is officially hearthecase. undetermined.

Las Vegas is Nevada’s economic centre

The incident is the deadliest mass and largest city Its metropolitan area, with shooting by a single gunman in American morethantwicethenumberofpeopleoutside history It focused attention on firearms laws the city limits as within them, contains in the U.S., particularly with regard to bump roughly three-fourths of the state’s stocks, which Paddock used to fire shots in population. rapid succession, at a rate similar to that of (Source: Wikipedia)

Popular Guyanese band -MinglesSoundMachine isbackinaction

Afterclosetoathreeyear hiatusduetotheCOVID-19, popular Guyanese band Mingle Sound Machine is backinaction.Thebandheld

its grand relaunch party at Tower Hotel Poolside on September15,2023.

Owner of the band and promoter Mike Fung told

thispublicationthattheband will host a series of promo acrossthecountry “Wewere playing until 2019 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit

months later, we seized for a while but now we are back and we will be based at the TowerHotelonMainStreet,” Fung said AccordingtoFung, toincreasepublicawarenessthat thebandisbackinaction,shows havebeenplannedforanumber of locations across the country The shows are slatedtofollowthelaunchon September 15, 2023 “We have promos in G e o rg e t o w n , N e w Amsterdam,Albion,Bartica, Lindenandotherlocations,” Fungsaid. He noted that Mingles

Sound Machine has been in existence for 33 years and hosted some of the most iconic international singers and bands to grace the stage in Guyana. “Dating to the 1990s, we have hosted popular musicians like Buju Banton, Shabba Ranks, Maxi Priest, Beenie Man, Byron Lee and the Dragonaires and a list of others,”hesaid Hecontinued, “WehaveplayedinToronto,New York, Jamaica Trinidad, BarbadosandotherCaribbean Territories” In recent times, thepromotersaidthathisband

has lent support to other popular promoters “We have collaborated with Hits and Jams entertainment and some other promoters We also provide our services for weddings, parties and other major events” he said Fung told this publication that Mingles Band is returning withanumberofnewplayers “We now have 11 members, mostof them are new faces, we only have four members from the old set,” he said. Thepromotersaidfollowing therelaunch,thebandwillbe releasingtwonewalbums.

The Mingles Sound Machine Band during a performance at its relaunch party

(Third from left) Guyanese Promoter, Mike Fung and some of the patrons at the relaunch party

ByRenaySambach

For a gastronomic journey unlike

any other, try KZa’s Catering, Waiter,andWaitressService.

In the heart of Friendship, Buxton, on the East Coast Demerara, resides Derk SheltonCritchlow,aculinaryvirtuosoborn onJanuary28,1994.Derk’spathtosuccess has been marked by resilience and an unyieldingcommitmenttoexcellence.

DuringaninterviewwithTheWaterfalls, Derksharedthathisjourneyincludesarich tapestry of life experiences, encompassing choir engagements, scouting, vocational training, and more These diverse facets of his life have shaped Derk into the multifacetedindividualheistoday

The seeds of Derk’s culinary journey were planted in the quaint village of Buxton, where he developed an enduring love for the art of cooking from a young age. His culinary craftsmanship is an intimateaffair,asymphonyofflavoursand aromas that accompany a skillfully

Embark on a culinary odyssey with Embark on a culinary odyssey with

preparedmeal.

Despite facing financial constraints thatmighthavediscouragedothers,Derk’s inspirationcamefromhisfamily’scatering heritageandtheinvaluableguidanceofhis mentor, foster-grandmother Aunty P Her meticulous lessons in bulk catering for variousoccasions,crownedbyalegendary roast pork recipe, laid the sturdy foundationforDerk’sculinaryaspirations.

Through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Derk gleaned invaluable life lessons. He discovered a profoundtruth:successdoesn’tnecessarily hinge on formal education but on seizing opportunities, maintaining unwavering determination, and, above all, treating otherswithrespect.

D e r k ’s f o r a y i n t o f o o d entrepreneurship was propelled by an innate passion for gastronomy The sheer joy of crafting dishes that bring happiness to people’s lives became the driving force behindhisventureintothefoodindustry

As KZa’s Catering, Waiter, and

WaitressServicelookahead,theyenvision anaudaciousyetstraightforwardlong-term goal:continuousexpansionandcateringto a diverse range of events. Whether it’s an intimate soirée or a grand gala, their missionistopresentdelectabledishesthat tantalize taste buds and offer seamless service,cateringtoeveryneed.

Kza’s menu is a treasure trove of culinarydelights,featuringmouthwatering appetizers, tantalizing main courses, and irresistible desserts. With a repertoire spanning both Creole and international cuisines,there’ssomethingtosatisfyevery palate.Notablemenuitemsincludeparsley rice, baked chicken in tamarind honey BBQsauce,groundprovisionsalads,fruits and veggie salad, and the divine cheesebakedmacaroni.

Derk proudly holds a coveted BSc. in Applied Meteorology from Nanjing University of Information Science and TechnologyinChina.Whatsetshimapart istheremarkablefactthathisentirecourse was conducted in Chinese, a testament to

hisbilingualprowess.

Beyond his academic achievements, Derk dedicates his time to part-time lecturing at the University of Guyana and co-foundingtheBuxton/FriendshipYouth Incubator, a noble initiative dedicated to mentorship,education,empowerment,and communitydevelopment.

For inquiries and orders, KZa’s Catering,Waiter,andWaitressServiceare just a message away via WhatsApp at +592-676-4803 or by phone at +592-6861537. You can also connect with them in the digital realm on Facebook at “Kza’s CateringWaiterandWaitressService,”or simply drop them a line via email at kzascatering@gmail.com.

Derk quoted Pearl S Buck’s word:”Serviceisbeautiful,butonlyifitis donewithjoyandawholeheart.”

To this, he added that at KZa’s, they don’tmerelyservefood;theycraftculinary symphonies infused with boundless passion, unwavering dedication, and a wholeheart.

Indigenous Fashion CAPTIVATES LOCAL RUNWAY

Incelebrationoftheirroots

and culture, a group of local designers came together on August 26, to showcase the brilliance of Indigenousfashion.

The fashion show was organized by The Nine Nations, newly formed group set to promote various aspects of Indigenous culture. The fashion show and exhibition was held on the 26 of August at 229 Lance GibbsStreet,Queenstown.

U n d e r t h e T h e m e , ‘Indigenous imaginations’ the fashion show provided an opportunity to showcase Indigenous artistry, talents and creativity as well as encourage cultural exchanges and appreciation.

Several Indigenous designers showcased their latest designs

with models that captivated the runway

The organizers of the show were President of Nine Nations, Sherica Ambrose, Nigel Butler, VandaAllicock,LeroyHendricks, NelsoniaPersaud,NatashaDavid, Courtney Douglas, Danielle CalistroandManicyAllicock.

The fashion show team included indigenous talents such as designers, artists, dancers, poets, singers, makeup artists, exhibitors, entrepreneurs, photographers, videographers, musicians and talented models and many others who all contributed to the success of the fashionshow

Further,theaimwastoenable access to a wider market for Indigenous products as we were abletoofferfreespacestoartists, crafters, wine makers and

traditional food chefs to display andmarkettheirproducts.

FEATUREDDESIGNERS

The show exhibited work from Andy and Elizabeth Williams who were featured and recognised for their excellent designs that had won several prizes during various heritage pageants.

Designer, Manicy Allicock crocheted and knitting pieces were born out of a deep love for expressing my creativity and imaginations through the selection of colours, patterns and designs.

Marcella is from a small village in the North Rupununi called Surama. Her pieces were inspiredtotryacrylicpaintingon shirts (male/female), dresses and skirtsofindigenous

Continued on page 64

A piece by designer: Natasha David

Designers: CourtneyandAneezaDouglas Design (Model: Jelena DaSilva)

Designers: LethemExclusiveAparrel(LEA)Designsforcontemporary Indigenouspieces (Model: Danielle Calistro & Brittany Barnett)

Designers Andy&ElizabethWilliamsand theirmodels (Photo Credit: Craig Henry)

Designer: Natasha David (Model: Reisa Roberts)

Wh en Nicketa

Alphonso was interviewed for an airline job several years ago, the interviewer asked where she would be in five years. Her answer was prophetic; she said she would be in “a pretty pastel shop, with flowers selling cakes.”

Today she runs her own cheesecake company, Creamy Creations,adreamsherealised,one which she has perfected over the years. “I'm not where I want to be butI'mnotwhereIusedtobe.Ifeel like Creamy Creations is a dream realised,” the bubbly Alphonso said.

It'sabusinesswhichshecreated followingencouragingwordsfrom her relatives and friends, after making tasty, eye-catching and yummycheesecakesforevents.

It was her cousin Renata who suggestedthatshebakeandsellher

CrCreamyeations'

CrCreamyeations'

Former Airline employee turned entrepreneur realizes her cheesecake dream

appetizing cheesecakes on Valentine's Day four years ago. Althoughshehadcoldfeetinitially, shewasconvincedtogivethecake sale a try at her cousin's sale of roses event that year “I was a bit hesitant but she was persistent and reassured me that my cakes tasted great,” Alphonso said.” I did the social media pages and we advertised and we were sold out that year and every year since then,”sheadded.

RaisedinthePomeroon Alphonso comes from humble beginnings. She was raised by her grandparents in Region Two and she attended nursery school and spent a part of her primary school yearsthere.Atage9,sherelocated to Georgetown to live with her mother and she completed her primaryeducationinthecity

After attending St John's College, she went on to study communication and information technology at School of the Nations.

She started life in the world of workintheaviationsectoratTrans GuyanaAirways; her first job was that of a Flight Operations Officer atthecompany Shelaterwentonto workatCheddiJaganInternational Airportasacustomerserviceagent for US carrier American Airlines. Butonedaywhileshewasworking at the airport, she felt out of place. “Ididn'tfeellikeIbelongedthere,” Alphonsosaid.

Starting a new venture

Alphonso said while she worked with American Airlines, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country's health care system

“Alongwithsuspendedflightsand then the lockdown, I was out of a job,”buttherewasasilverlining. She had time to develop her bakingskills.“Growingupwithmy grandparents, I was always in the kitchen helping my grandmother I have a genuine love for home and family. So I started baking cheesecakes more frequently,” she said. “Now I'm catering to every size of event and holidays,” she added.

Alphonsocanbedescribedasa perfectionist who goes out of her reach to ensure her customers are always satisfied. “I message every customer after every order thanking them for purchasing and let them know that a feedback would be welcomed and appreciated.”

She said when she started the business;sheexperienceda“mixof goodandnotsogoodfeedback.”In addition, the logistics of the businesssuchastiming,pickupand delivery of the cakes proved difficult “That is now stable becauseIopenedanoutletatBabe

Cave World, where persons can readilypickupcakesduringtheday without the time constraint I had before,”sheadded.

Alphonso said she is continuously working to improve her business. “I find customer feedback to be very helpful and important. Most of my customers arefamilynow,”shesaid.

B a k i n g t h e c a k e s Given the delicate processes involved in making cheesecakes, Alphonso said she can be “very meticulous” in her food preparation.“Ipreptheingredients that I can beforehand. All of my saucesaremadeinhouseandfrom scratch,”shesaid.

The order is baked the day before so it can cool, which is usually four hours at room temperature depending on the size of cake, she said. Then the cake is placedintherefrigeratorovernight forittoset.

“It's topped on day of delivery orpickup.Acheesecakeisbasically a decadent custard type dessert. I havealotofdifferentflavoursand

combination of flavours for my customers to choose from,” she added.

Social media's influence

Social media is said to be an integral forum for marketing a business.ForAlphonso,ithasbeen a key factor in the promotion of Creamy Creations. “I was able to reach a larger audience when my recommendations from others, who've tried my cheesecakes,” she said.

In addition to her other traits, Alphonso can be described as ambitious,ago-getterandonewho thrives on self-belief. “I believe with God all things are possible,” sheadded.

“I'm extremely grateful for my family and customers that are with mesinceIstartedandarestillwith me. It is my hope that Creamy Creations will continue to be consistentinqualityandstandardto suitthepalatesofanever-changing world,” the ambitious Alphonso said.

Nicketa her dreams and created a cheesecake company

ALemon Blueberry cheesecake, ne of NcketaAlphonso's delicacies.

's four topping Nicketa cheesecake is a customer's favourite.

"Beyond the Brush Exhibition" promises memorable experience in Guyanese art and creativity

Whetheryou'rea seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious about the worldofart,the"Beyondthe BrushExhibition"promisesa memorable experience that willenrichyourappreciation for creativity and art in Guyana.

“Beyond the Brush Exhibition” is set to be a captivating collection of paintings, sculptures other mediums, from talented artists.

Theexhibitionsettotake placeSeptember29-30atthe Marriot Hotel Guyana, is organizedbyGuyaneseArtist Sade Barrow-Browne

Barrow-Browneistheowner of the virtual art gallery

FineArt.gy

ShepromisesthatBeyond the Brush will be a unique opportunity for local and visitingartenthusiaststoown apieceofartisticbrilliance.

“With Beyond the Brush, we encourage patrons to explore and appreciate beyond what they see on canvasandtrytoembracethe emotions and themes of the art,”shesaid

“We are excited to introduce to view catalog which features a curated selection of artwork that will beondisplayattheevent.By preordering pieces from the

catalog, you can secure your favourite artwork before it is officially unveiled at the exhibition. These preordered pieces will be marked as "sold" at the event, ensuring that you won't miss out on owning your desired masterpiece,” BarrowBrowneadded.

The gallery will feature work from talent artists like AbigailMarks,AkeemKing, Alvina Nughton, Alyce Cameron, Anthonio Butts, Anna Joao, Bissoonnauth Bacchus, Christina Izbașa, Cosmata Lindie, Courtney Douglas, Darry Wilson, Delancia Semple, Dillon Craig, Dominique Hunter,

Denny, Junior Hytmiah, Keno George, on Hardowar, Lisa Thompson, Maharanie Jhillu, Merlene Ellis, Mariah Lawrence, Mary Fung-A-Fat, Michael Griffith, Ransford Simon, Roberta Nicolls, Roberto Teekah, Ron Verwey, Ryan McKay, Samara Siland, Selena Ramnarine, Tammy alker, Travon Barker, n s l o w C r a i g , ChristopherKillkelly,Vibert

Dummett, Halcyon Doris, Joshua Macey,Akeem King, Ackeem Thomas and Ariela Azaire.

Barrow-Browne noted thatsupportinglocalartistsis not just about investing in theirwork;it'saninvestment inthesoulofourcommunity By uplifting our local artists, we preserve cultural identities, inspire creativity, and foster a sense of belonging that enriches our livesincountlessways.Their art reflects our stories, traditions,andaspirations, (Continuedonpage64)

Secret Garden brunch is the ultimate brunch experience

Thesecretgardenbrunchhasbeenlabeledthe brunch experience in Guyana and rightly so. Patrons treatedtoaclassyexperience,whichonceagain bar

Thisyear,HorizonEvents.gyunderthemanagement entrepreneur, Yonnick David added a floral touch all-whiteeventhostedonSeptember17last. The andLoungesweredeckedwithfloralpiecestoadd butelegantlooktothedécor

Addedtotheclassyd corwasthecombination é and international cuisine which was plentiful, delicious. The venue was definitely lovely, cool where great drinks, entertainment and companytoaddtotheambiance.

Scenes from the secret garden brunch

Royston Hytmiah,Aquiet place, Medium: photography (canvas print)

Christina Izbașa, Going Home, 21'' x 26'' Charcoal on white paper

Guyanese artist, Sade Barrow-Browne

From page 16 households for higher vastmajorityofsubsidiesare energy prices The implicit, as environmental remainder could be used to costs are often not reflected cut taxes on work and in prices for fossil fuels, investment and fund public especially for coal and goods such as education, diesel. healthcare,andcleanenergy

“Our analysis shows that With global energy prices consumers did not pay for receding and emissions over US$5 trillion of rising, it’s the right time to environmental costs last phase out explicit and year This number would be implicit fossil-fuel almost doubled if damage to subsidies, for a healthier and the climate was valued at moresustainableplanet. levelsfoundinarecentstudy published in the scientific Venezuela mounts journal Nature instead of our protest against baseline assumption that Guyana’s oil auction global warming costs are - Pres.Ali says country equal to the emissions price entitled to pursue needed to meet Paris economic development in Agreement temperature maritime borders goals,” the IMF article stated. T h e Ve n e z u e l a n

The IMF said these Government has mounted a implicit subsidies are protest against Guyana’s projected to grow as recently concluded oil d e v e l o p i n g blocks auction In a countries which tend to statement issued yesterday, have higher-polluting power thebyitsMinistryofForeign plants, factories, and Affairs, the administration vehicles, along with dense said, “The Bolivarian populations living and Republic of Venezuela working close to these strongly rejects the illegal pollution sources—increase bidding round for oil blocks their consumption of fossil currently being carried out fuels toward the levels of by the Government of the advanced economies “If Cooperative Republic of governments removed Guyana since it intends to explicit subsidies and havemaritimeareaspending imposed corrective taxes, delimitation between both fuel prices would increase. countries.”

Blocks in darker shade received 14 bids from six groups of companies

This would lead firms and It further noted that the households to consider GovernmentofGuyanadoes environmental costs when not have sovereign rights making consumption and over these maritime areas investment decisions. The and consequently any action result would be cutting within their limits is a global carbon-dioxide violation of international emissions significantly, law, as long as they are not cleaner air, less lung and carried out through an heart disease, and more agreement with Venezuela. f i s c a l s p a c e f o r The missive added, “The governments,” the IMF Bolivarian Republic of article concluded “We Venezuela reiterates that any estimate that scrapping illicit and arbitrary explicit and implicit fossil- concession that Guyana fuel subsidies would prevent grants,hasgrantedorintends 1.6 million premature deaths to grant in the areas in annually, raise government question is unacceptable and revenues by US$4.4 trillion, violates its sovereign rights, and put emissions on track and warns that these actions toward reaching global do not generate any type of warming targets. It would rights for third parties to exercise by Guyana of its blazed a trail of over 33 received bids from six Cybele Energy Limited also redistribute income as participateinthisprocess.” sovereignty and sovereign significant discoveries. The groups of companies. The (Ghana); Sispro Inc fuel subsidies benefit rich Guyana’s Head of State, rights will be wholly in exploration success has not companies that submitted (Guyana); and lastly households more than poor Dr Irfaan Ali categorically consistent with the Geneva only catapulted Guyana to bids include: Total Energies International Group ones.” stated however that his Agreement and the rule of international stardom in the EP Guyana B V, Qatar InvestmentInc.(Guyana),in

However, the IMF said administration is entitled to internationallaw.” oil and gas arena but was Energy International E&P joint venture with Montego removing fuel subsidies can p u r s u e e c o n o m i c Guyana and Venezuela responsible for generating LLC, & Petronas E&P Energy SA(London). be tricky, noting that development within the are currently before the significant interest in the Overseas Ventures SDN The Vice President did not governments must design, nation’s maritime borders. International Court of country’s first oil blocks BHD (Malaysia); Delcorp state which companies made c o m m u n i c a t e , a n d The President said, “The Justice (ICJ) to address the auction that featured 11 Inc–Guyana,WatadEnergy, bids for certain blocks. Be implement reforms clearly Government of Guyana latter’s spurious claims over shallow water blocks and Arabian Drillers (Saudia that as it may, the official and carefully as part of a reserves the right to pursue the former’s sovereign t h r e e d e e p w a t e r Arabia); Exxon Mobil said, “We are very pleased comprehensive policy economic development territory Such aspersions concessions. GuyanaLimited,HESSNew with the offers that we had package that underscore the activitiesinanyportionofits were raised by Venezuela Vice President, Bharrat Ventures Exploration from the bid round (which benefits. It said a portion of sovereignoranyappurtenant after an ExxonMobil-led J a g d e o a n d c h i e f Limited, and CNOOC closed September 12, 2023). the increased revenues maritime territories Any consortium marked its first policymaker for Guyana’s Petroleum Guyana Limited; The blocks that we did not s h o u l d b e u s e d t o unilateral attempt by discovery in the Stabroek oil sector said last week that L i b e r t y P e t r o l e u m receivebidsforareD3,S1, compensate vulnerable Venezuela to restrict the Block, following which it eight of the 14 blocks Corporation (USA) and , (Continued on page 58)

From page 57 Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram PPP/C has been promising a being an oil producer amidst S2, S6, S9, and S11. So that means believestheconfusionplaguingthe Petroleum Commission for years warnings of climate catastrophe. some of the blocks are very audit of ExxonMobil Guyana now but has done nothing about it. ShemadereferencetoGuyananow competitive. A number of people Limited’s expenses totaling Too often there is an unhealthy being an oil producing nation after are questioning whether this was a US$1.7B in the Stabroek Block, relationship between politicians discovering oil in 2015 with successful bid round or not but we underscores the need for an andpublicofficers.Whenthingsgo productioncommencingin2019. are pleased with how the round has i n d e p e n d e n t P e t r o l e u m wrong, they cover for each other,” The president emphasized that gone.” Commission Had such an thelawyersaid. hisadministration’scommitmentto

He said the government is independent body been in place, The call for a Petroleum environmental preservation had satisfied with the outcome, Ram shared the view that Guyana Commission was also made by the always been paramount He especially since the auction was would not find itself in a position political opposition, especially highlighted Guyana’s unique held after the modernization of the where staff members at the duringthedebatesthatwereheldon position, boasting a forest the size legislative and regulatory Ministry of Natural Resources the Petroleum Activities ofEnglandandScotlandcombined, framework.Thechiefpolicymaker were engaged in an “unauthorized Legislation. Members of the A with an astonishingly low forGuyana’soilsectorwaspleased reduction” of questionable sums Partnership for National Unity deforestationrateof0.036%. withthefactthatauthoritieskeptits from US$214M to US$3M with (APNU) as well as theAlliance For Hesaidtoothattheentireforest promise to not conclude the bid officialsfromExxonGuyana. Change (AFC) strongly contended stands as a certified carbon round without new model This discrepancy was brought thattheindustryshouldberemoved reservoir, raising critical questions Production Sharing Agreements to light by Vice President, Dr from the government’s bosom and about the global community’s (PSAs) in place to govern Bharrat Jagdeo at a press transferred to the hands of an efforts to protect such valuable deepwater and shallow water conference last week. The official independent agency The naturalresources. blocks. He also lauded the passage hadrecalledthattheUS$214Msum government had rejected this petroleum operations, or are In line with the country’s ofthePetroleumActivitiesLaw was first flagged by British notion Without providing any considered to fall outside of newfound status as a petroleum

Along with having a more Consultancy Group, IHS Markit examples, the PPP/C has argued industrybestpractice. producer,thepresidentaffirmedhis robust regime in place, Jagdeo said after it audited Exxon’s expenses that the model being used in The next category is administration’ssupportforending one needs to appreciate the global from 1999 to 2017. The Guyana Guyana is used by many modern “Inadequate Supporting subsidies on exploration and context within which the new Revenue Authority (GRA) which and aged democracies. They also Documentation” which totals introducing carbon taxes systemwasimplemented.Henoted played a peripheral role in the audit argued that the government would US$179 8 million The British However, he also emphasized the inthisregardthatthereisapushfor process,gaveitsno-objectiontothe implement such a commission “at auditing team said these costs need for a balanced approach in oilcompaniesandtheworldoverto US$214M when it was first raised, theappropriatetime”. suffer from a transparency issue as addressingthesecomplexissues. reducetheirrelianceonfossilfuels. advocating that this matter should The audit of US$1 7B in the cost basis, nature and PresidentAli’s call for removal As a result, oil companies he said be closed. Following GRA’s no- Exxon’s expenses for the oil-rich justificationofthesecostscouldnot ofsubsidiestooilcompaniescomes are finding it more challenging to objection to the US$214M figure, Stabroek Block has taken more be established with the furnished on the heels of a recent call by the raise financing for petroleum authorities are expected to proceed than three years to be completed. documentation even after several International Monetary Fund relatedactivities. tofinalizingthereport. IHS was hired back in 2019 by the rounds of documentation requests (IMF) to reduce tax breaks and With those factors considered, Jagdeohadsaidtheministrydid f o r m e r D a v i d G r a n g e r from the Audit Team. Although subsidies provided to oil Jagdeo said the interest for eight of not do this despite GRA’s administration to do the exercise. these costs may be valid, the companiesworldwide. the 14 blocks on offer was recommendation Jagdeo at The auditor’s leaked report states auditing team said government has The IMF reported that fossilcommendable. He said the next previous press conferences told the that “the Government of Guyana therighttothetransparencyofhow fuel subsidies reached an alarming stageisforauthoritiestoreviewthe media that the sum of US$214M has reasonable grounds to dispute these costs relate to Stabroek record of US$7 trillion last year, bids received, following which, was reduced to US$11M as he was US$214.4 million plus associated PetroleumOperations. equivalent to 7.1% of global gross more details would be released. under the impression that this overhead adjustments of the The final category pertains to domestic product (GDP). These Jagdeo also anticipates that awards reduction was approved by the costs…” costs for which ministerial subsidies surpass annual willbemadebeforetheyear’send. technical people involved. The Further,thereportstatesthatthe approval is required. This is to the expenditures on education and Vice President later recanted his disputed costs fall into three main tune of US$270,000. The report comprise a significant portion of THURSDAY statement, saying that the categories, the first being “Defined states that these costs have been healthcare budgets, emphasizing US$214Mstands. Costs for Removal” which amount identified as predominantly related the urgency of addressing this Petroleum Commission could In an invited comment, Ram to US$34.4 million. The report to research and development and issue. have prevented confusion with shared the view that the confusion states that these costs have either require ministerial approval before However, Ali’s call for the audit of Exxon’s US$1.7B plaguing the process stems from a been included in error, are not they can be considered cost removal of subsidies to oil expenses - Chris Ram combination of unfamiliarity of the aligned with provisions in the recoverable. companies also comes at a time audit process and the absence of a StabroekBlockProductionSharing The Auditors also flagged a when Guyana has an existing Chartered Accountant and Petroleum Commission “The Agreement, are not related to totalofUS$28.8millionwhichwas agreement with ExxonMobil incurredpriortodateofJanuary10, Guyana that grants significant tax 2015 when Hess Corporation and exemptions.

CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Exxon operates the nation’s Limited became partners in the most lucrative oil block, the StabroekblockalongsideExxon. Stabroek Block, and continues to benefit from tax-free earnings due Pres.Ali supports to the Production Sharing removal of subsidies given Agreement (PSA) signed with to oil companies but maintains Guyana. tax breaks to Exxon The 2016 PSA obliges Guyana to pay ExxonMobil’s share of Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, Corporation and Income Tax, during an exclusive interview on resulting in the country forgoing ITV’s Good Morning Britain billions of US dollars annually (GMB) on Wednesday, voiced his Furthermore, this documentation government’s strong stance on allows the US oil giant to avoid ending subsidies to oil companies paying taxes on its overseas forexploration. earningsinitshomecountry

In a candid conversation with However, President Ali in a GMB presenters Richard Madeley recent interview with the British and Susannah Reid, President Ali Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) addressed the pressing issue of reiterated that while his climate responsibility in light of administration is aware of the Guyana’s recent emergence as an lopsided nature of the deal which oil-producingnation. benefits the oil companies more,

During the chat, Reid asked the his administration will not seek a head-of-state about the renegotiationofthedealduetothe responsibility Guyana senses, (Continued on page 59)

Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram

From page 58

development goals in nations. He and addressing liquidity support, “sanctity of contract ” The highlighted that the existing global private capital, development Government has faced local financialframeworkisill-equipped lending, and more inclusive pressure to ensure ExxonMobil to tackle pressing challenges such governanceofinternationalfinance pays its fair share of taxes. Guyana as food insecurity, energy scarcity, institutions. received a relatively modest and the profound impacts of He then reaffirmed Guyana’s US$94.5 million in 2022 as royalty climatechange. commitment to collaborating with for its Stabroek Block crude oil; it

He said too that urgent reform the international community on granted ExxonMobil a staggering of the financial architecture is tangible, measurable actions to US$290 million in tax exemptions. essential to get back on track address these pressing issues. These concessions extend to towards achieving development Guyana has experienced a notable multinational corporations like goals. President Ali highlighted increase in its debt levels in recent Hess Corporation and CNOOC, alarming statistics, with 60% of years. This rise in debt can be furthercomplicatingthematter least developed countries already attributed, in part, to significant

Despite legal challenges from in debt distress or at high risk, and borrowing to finance critical figureslikeGlennLall,publisherof their debt servicing swallowing up infrastructureprojects,includingin KaieteurNews,whoquestionedthe asignificantportionofgovernment theoilandgassector legality of these tax waivers, High revenue, especially in Sub-Saharan While the country’s newfound Court Judge Nareshwar Harnanan Africa. oil resources have offered upheld the government’s authority

Ali added that developing opportunities for economic growth to grant extensive tax exemptions countries,onaverage,allocate14% buthavealsoraisedconcernsabout under the Petroleum Exploration oftheirdomesticrevenuetointerest thesustainabilityofitsdebtburden. and Production Act. This ruling repayments compared to just 3.5% Notably, President Ali’s underscored the complexity of the in developed countries. “Interest administration recently raised the tax breaks issue within Guyana’s rate hikes and soaring debt levels country’s debt ceiling by US$3 role in the audit of Exxon’s there was an agreement for a full oilindustry will cause developing countries billion, allowing for more expenses. Chartered Accountant investigation. He said too that the billions of dollars in the coming borrowing. This decision, taken in and Attorney-at-Law, Christopher ministry now has to communicate FRIDAY years,”hefurtherstated. August, expanded the domestic Ram had noted in a letter to the toExxonthatbasedontheadviceof Furthermore, President Ali public debt ceiling to $750 billion, press that GRA has no business GRA, the disputed sums will Ministry to conduct emphasized the staggering and established a new external being part of such audits which remain at US$214M. Importantly, full probe into Exxon’s economic toll of climate change. borrowingceilingof$900billion. examine all the expenses Exxon Jagdeo said Exxon would not be US$214M audit fiasco Ali pointed out that international The country’s previous debt used Guyana’s oil to cover He pulled into the investigation - Cabinet to review findings reserves took a hit in 2022, with 81 ceilings were last increased by the argued that the governing Jagdeo said, “We don’t know what developing countries, excluding Government back in January 2021. legislation for GRA confines it to they sent and I am not interested in The Ministry of Natural China, losing a collective $241 According to the Ministry of taxmatters. what they sent because that could Resources is set to conduct a billion. President Ali referenced Finance, given Guyana’s economic Ram also acknowledged that be used in arbitration should we go thorough investigation into its information by the International outlook, these revisions to the the Production Sharing Agreement there. I am more interested in who Petroleum Unit regarding the EnergyAgency (IEA) which stated external and domestic public debt (PSA) governing the oil-rich authorizedthisandwhy.” mishandling of the audit into that to limit global temperature rise ceilings are consistent with the Stabroek Block states that the Going forward, he said there ExxonMobil’s US$1.7B bills for Minister of Natural Resources can will have to be a policy which theperiod1999to2017. carry out audits via a designated categorically states that ministry

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo officer Ramnotedthatwhilethisis officials are not to engage with oil made this disclosure yesterday the case, the minister’s first choice and gas companies without the during a press conference at ought to be the Audit Office, explicit approval of the minister Freedom House on Robb Street. providedthatithasthemanpower “It is something that I intend to The oil sector’s primary decision- Jagdeo clarified however that proposetoCabinetbecausewemay maker emphasised that the GRA is not acting outside of its never know what discussions investigation aims to identify the remit on these matters. The Vice actually took place between the oil individuals who engaged in an President explained further that and gas companies and staff at the unauthorised reduction of when IHS was hired by the technical level. So clearly there is a US$214M in questionable previous government to audit need for this,” the official spendingbyExxontoUS$3M. Exxon’s expenses totalling concluded.

Jagdeo said the ministry will US$1 7B, a report was provide a report to Cabinet for subsequently provided. He alluded ‘Hike in interest rates will review and the appropriate action that the document could not be cost countries like Guyana would be taken thereafter The accepted at face value; the findings billions’– Pres.Ali tells UN official also declined to disclose had to be assessed. Jagdeo said the prior to the completion of this MinistryofNaturalResourcesdoes Growing debt levels in probe,thenamesofthepersonsthat not have the capabilities to do that. developing countries have become engaged Exxon. “I would want to GRA which has the expertise was a pressing concern in recent years. await the full report from the therefore relied upon. “So policy These nations often resort to ministry to Cabinet and the wise, we said our advisor is the borrowing to finance infrastructure ministry would have to disclose GRA…there is no conflict. The projects, stimulate economic to less than two degrees Celsius, country’s long-term debt thattothepublictoo,”hesaid.

GRAand

onlythatentitycanadvise

growth, or manage budget deficits. investments of around $1 trillion sustainability

TheVice President said too that on what we should conclude these However, the escalating debt annually in the energy sector alone Notably, fuelled by a ramping he agrees an investigation must matters on,” the Vice President burdens can have severe are required to transition from up of oil production and the take place, as was called for by said. consequences. fossil fuels. He continued, “This is resurgence of the non-oil economy, CharteredAccountant, Christopher In keeping with its advisory On Wednesday in his address most sobering when you consider the country registered real Gross R a m a n d O p p o s i t i o n role, the official said GRAwrote to during a forum at the United that close to 900 million people in DomesticProduct(GDP)growthof Parliamentarian, David Patterson. the ministry on August 8, 2023, Nations’ 78th session of the UN developing countries has no access 62.3 percent in 2022, making it the The call for a thorough probe was advising that it has no objection to General Assembly in New York, to electricity, commitments that fastest-growing economy in the made after the Vice President the US$214M first flagged by HIS President Irfaan Ali delivered a have and are being made must be world. As such, it was noted that revealed last week that the Markit and they should proceed to stark warning about the fulfilled.” this appreciable growth ministry’s unit engaged Exxon on closing the audit. Jagdeo reminded consequences of escalating debt In light of these challenges, performance and the country’s reducing questionable spending that the ministry did not adhere to levels for developing countries like President Ali called for a robust economic outlook underpin first flagged by British this recommendation and engaged Guyana At the High-level comprehensive reform of the Guyana’s sustainable absorption of Consultancy Group, IHS Markit indiscussionswithExxontoreduce Dialogue on Financing for financial architecture, which thenewdebt. and later endorsed by the Guyana thesesums. Development, President Ali shouldincludetheearlyadoptionof In sum, the Government said it RevenueAuthority(GRA). The Vice President said the underscoredthedirectlinkbetween a multi-dimensional vulnerability is committed to harnessing The official also set the record Head-of-State, Dr Irfaan Ali was the lack of financial resources and index, implementation of measures Guyana’sdebt-carryingcapacityto straight on concerns about GRA’s appraised of the developments and the struggle to attain sustainable outlined in the Bridgeton initiative, (Continued on page 60)

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali

From page 59 2023 to close the inaugural audit accelerate its development agenda. into ExxonMobil’s expenses This publication recently reported totalling US$1.7B. Those costs that within six months, the were incurred from 1999 to 2017. country’s debt has surged to The audit of those expenses was US$3.9 billion, marking a 7.2% done by IHS Markit, a British increase compared to the end of Consultancy group which flagged 2022. US$214M in questionable

The Ministry of Finance’s Mid- expensesbyExxon. Year Report highlighted that, as of As to the official disclosure of June 2023, Guyana’s total public those documents, Jagdeo said, “If and publicly guaranteed debt stood GRA wants to release the IHS at US$3,916.9 million, with total Markit report, we don’t have a public debt accounting for problem; if GRA wants to release US$3,914 5 million, and total the other report (on the audit of publicly guaranteed debt for the US$7.3B)thatisfinewithme…but remaining US$2 4 million they must make that call on Notably,whencomparedtotheend anythingtodowithaudits.” of 2022, when debt stood at Going forward, VP Jagdeo US$3,654 9 million, a 7 2% stressed the government’s increase was recorded. To this end, commitment towards building Government said this was mainly local capacity for the audit of attributed to a positive net flow ExxonMobil’sexpenses. from both the external and Jagdeo explained, “…We made domestic debt portfolios. In the it clear that we want to build recently published report it was capacity on these matters…We stated, “As a result of were hoping to get feedback from a Government’s continued effort to policy standpoint on the quality of ensure that financing needs are met theaudit(forUS$7.3B)becausewe at the lowest possible cost with a brought in local people for the first prudent degree of risk, Guyana’s timeforthatpurpose.” public debt remains sustainable He added, “I am looking policy with a moderate risk of debt wise for a report on the quality of distress.” the audit and whether bringing in localpeopleallowsustodoanaudit

SATURDAY to industry standards or it compromises the process because

Venezuela to seek

international stage. It also seeks to development activities in any

GRAhas authority to release there has been a lot of push back citizens’opinion on involve and enlighten its populace portion of its sovereign or any Exxon’s audit reports – Jagdeo from another section of society absurd Essequibo claim about the ongoing territorial appurtenant maritime territories. saying that locals can’t handle …As Guyana stands firm controversywithGuyana. Any unilateral attempt by Vice President (VP), Dr. this…” on sovereign right to It should be noted however that Venezuelatorestricttheexerciseby Bharrat Jagdeo made it clear on While he awaits the referenced conduct oil blocks auction theresultofsuchareferendumdoes Guyana of its sovereignty and Thursday that the Guyana Revenue feedback, the Vice President said not alter the status quo of sovereign rights will be wholly in Authority(GRA)istheonlyagency the government is also looking to Venezuela’sNationalAssembly ownership over the Essequibo consistent with the Geneva authorized to release any of the the next phase of auditing approved a Consultative territory which rightfully belongs Agreement and the rule of audit reports on ExxonMobil’s ExxonMobil’s expenses incurred Referendum on Thursday which to Guyana. Guyanese authorities internationallaw.” Stabroek Block expenses. He said for the period 2020-2022.This will paves the way for people to decide have since called on the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat GRAcandosoifitpleases. include scrutiny of expenses on the country’s spurious claims International Court of Justice (ICJ) Jagdeo also stated yesterday that During an engagement with relating to the US$9B Payara overGuyana’sEssequiboregion. to address Venezuela’s erroneous Guyana will not back down from members of the local media projectintheStabroekBlock,setto According to BNN Newsroom, claims which have heightened in exploiting its resources which are fraternity at Freedom House, come on stream later this year and thedecisiontoholdareferendumis recentdays. withinitsmaritimeborders. Jagdeo was also keen to note that produce 220,000 barrels of oil per a strategic one, aiming to bolster Just recently, the Venezuelan He also noted that the bidders GRA, and not the Ministry of day Venezuela’s position on the government issued a statement have not expressed any concern Natural Resources, is the sole saying that it strongly rejects regarding Venezuela’s latest authority with responsibility for Guyana’s ongoing bid round for 14 tactic pronouncing on technical oil blocks, eight of which have The official said, “We have not information captured in those attractedbidsfromsixgroupsofoil heard from any of the bidders that reports. companies. they’re concerned about the

He made the foregoing

Guyana’s Head of State, Dr American States (OAS) and other

T h e V e n e z u e l a n statement and it’s not surprising comments in response to queries administration said the move by that Venezuela would issue such a fromKaieteurNewsonthestatusof Guyanaisillegal statement. They have done so an audit into ExxonMobil’s The missive added, “The almost for every major event when expenses totalling US$7.3B for the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela we have tried to utilize the period2018to2020.Thatauditwas reiterates that any illicit and economic resources of our country conducted by VHE Consulting, a arbitrary concession that Guyana both on land and in our Exclusive registered partnership between grants, has granted or intends to EconomicZone(EEZ).” Ramdihal & Haynes Inc, Eclisar grant in the areas in question is The Vice President was also Financial, and Vitality Accounting unacceptable and violates its keen to remind that Venezuela’s & Consultancy Inc The local sovereign rights, and warns that aggression has been met with the consortium, hired back in May last these actions do not generate any appropriate response of rejection year, received support from type of rights for third parties to from the Guyana Government as International firms SGS and participateinthisprocess.” well as from the Organization of MartindaleConsultants.

Speaking on the status of the Irfaan Ali categorically stated keystakeholders. auditreport,theVicePresidentsaid however that his administration is The chief policymaker for the it is now with GRAfor a review of entitled to pursue economic oil sector confirmed that Guyanese thefindings. development within the nation’s authorities will press on with the

He further noted that the tax maritimeborders. licensing round, adding there will agency already submitted its

The President said, “The be no baking down since the 14 recommendation to the Natural Government of Guyana reserves blocks on auction are all within the Resources Ministry on August 8, the right to pursue economic country’sEEZ.

Pres. Ali met with oil protestors in New York

GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia

The Duck With Cold Feet

ByKennethLapointe

“Waaahk! Waaaahk! Mommy! Daddy! I don't want to go in that cold water! My feet willgetcold!”

Basil's parents had heard this same thing over and over since he was just a baby duckling. For some reason, no matter how muchtheytoldhimthathisfeetwouldn'tget coldhejustdidn'tbelievethem.

Of course, Basil loved splashing around in the water in the summertime when it was nice and warm, even in the fall too until the coldweathercame,butinthewinterwhenthe snow was as white as a Muscovy when the open water looked dark and freezing he just wouldn'tgoin.Imean,therewasevenicein thewater!Howcoldisthat!

“Look at all the other ducks. Splashing aroundinthewater Theyaren'tcomplaining arethey?”hismotheraskedhim.“Yes,butmy feetarebare!Ican`tgointhatice-coldwater withbarefeet!”repliedBasil.“Yesbutsoare the others!” his mother quacked back. “And wedon`tgetcoldfeet,dowe?”

“Mommy,”saidBasil. “AllIknowis,my feetwillgetsocoldI`lljustdie!”

SoBasilhadneverswamwithhisfriends or parents or any of his relatives when they were all out in big flocks in the water in the winter Nomatterifitwasapond,alake,ora river.Hewouldn`tevenstickhisbigtoeinto

Ghost Family Piñata Party!

tryit.

“Well, what are we going to do with Basil?”hismomaskedhisdad.

“Idon`tknow,”repliedBasilSr “Butwe need to do something soon or he`s going to losetouchwiththeflockandthey`llabandon him.”

Mrs Basil looked with worry at her husband.“I`msurethere`ssomethingwecan do.Let`sasktheBigGeeseortheBigSwans. Surely they`vecome across this problem before.”

Sotheyhadabigconfabwithallthegeese andswansintheirneighbourhood.

And the very next morning Basil went swimming in the coldest water no person wouldeverwanttogointo.ButBasilwasn`t worried.

For on his feet were the most beautiful presents he could ever ask for—presents his parents had got him on advice from one big old Canada Goose. Basil`s feet were never coldfromthenon.

And if you ever see a duck with thick woollentartan socks and old army boots on hisfeet,walkingaroundinthewinteryoucan betit`sBasil.Andeventhoughhissocksand shoes get mighty soaked of course paddling aroundoutintheopenwaterandstandingin icy puddles, he still thinks his feet are warm allthankstothem.

Andthat'sallthatmatters.

FUNWITHPOETRY

Walk Carefully on the Road

He'drunoutasoftenashecould.

OnedayCharliewaskickingaball,

NowCharlieisnearlywellagain, Butheislimpingverybadly, Afraidtoevenbeontheroad, Andtellingeveryonetowalkcarefully.

by Uncle Roy

BYKATIESHELTON:5/10/22

Supplies: balloon, liquid corn starch, strips of newspaper And for decorating the piñataafteritdries,youwillneedwhitepaint, tissuepaper,blackfelt,andElmer'sglue.

Blow up your balloon and begin dipping stripsofnewspaperinliquidcornstarch.

Lay the strips on the surface of the balloon (you want the strips wet, but not soggy).Continuedoingthisuntiltheballoon istotallycovered.

After your balloon has been drying for aboutaday,coverthenewspaperinacoatof whitepaint.Thiswillhideanynewsprintthat may want to peek out. After the paint dries,

carefully pop the balloon inside of the newspaper

Begin glueing tissue paper around the baseoftheballoon.Youmayneedmorethan onpiecetomakeitwrapallthewayaround.5. Afteryouhaveglued3or4longtierson,start back down by the base of the balloon and beginthesameprocesswiththinnerstripsof tissue paper You will need a large circle to finishoffthetop.

When all of the strips have been glued down, go back to your long layers at the bottomandcutthemintofringe.6.Cutfaces shapesoutoffeltandgluethemdown.You're alldone!

Binox

There are an equal number of Xs and Os in eachrowandcolumn. Allrowsareunique.Allcolumnsareunique, too.

ThefinishedpuzzleshouldbefilledwithXs and Os. Horizontally and vertically, there shouldneverbeacontinuousrunofthesame symbollongerthan2.

WAYSTOPROTECT YOUREYESFROMTHE SUNTHISSUMMER 5

SummerisFINALLYhere!Thatmeanspooltime,playtime, vacationtime,barbecues,andfuninthesun!Welovetospendtime outsideandenjoythewonderfulweather,butareyoudoing everythingyoucantoprotectyourandyourlovedones'eyesfromthe sun?

So,let'stalkaboutsunprotectionandfivewaystoprotectyour eyesfromthesunthissummer

1.Beeducated.

ProtectiveLens—WomanWearingShadesUndertheSunin Lafayette,IN

Thisisthemostimportantpoint:understandingwhythesun's raysareharmful.TermslikeradiationandUVaretypicallythrown aroundwhendiscussingsunprotection,butwhatdothoseterms actuallymean?Howcanthesunactuallycauseharmtoourskinand eyes?

Radiation-Radiationisaninvisibleforceofenergy.It'sa scientifictermfromthephysicsfield.Withoutbreakingitdowntoo much,electromagneticradiationisatypeofenergythattravelsvia waves(likelight,forexample).

UVRays-UVisshortforultravioletandisatypeof electromagneticradiation.It'saninvisibletypeoflightthatispresent inthesun'srays.Specifically,therearethreetypes:UVA,UVB,and UVCrays.Theletterdistinctionbasicallydesignatestheenergylevel associatedwiththelightrayandtheeffectsitcanhaveonourbodies.

Ultravioletraysarepresentallyearlong,butthey'restrongestin thespringandsummermonths.It'salsoimportanttorecognizethat theseraysarepresentoncloudydaysandareabletobounceoffof surfaces(suchassnow,sand,andwater),sosimplynotlookingatthe sunisnotenoughprotection.

2.Bemindfulofyourkiddos.

Sunglasses—ChildrenWearingSunglassesinLafayette,IN Kids'eyesarepreciousandneedtobeprotected,butthey commonlyareoverlooked.That'swhykidstendtofacemoresun exposureandsundamage.Whenyoung,theireyesaren'tfully developed.Whenpairedwithlackofprotection,kidsmaybe susceptibletoeyediseaseswhenthey'reolder Toprotectyourkids, makesureyou'remindfuloftheirtimespentoutsideandyou're askingthemabouttheireyeseverytimeyoustoptolatherthemup withsunscreen.Sunglasses,wide-brimmedhats,andbreaksinthe shadeareallgreatwaystohelpoffereyeprotectionfromthesun.

3.Startgoodhabits.

Startgoodeyeprotectionhabitsandstartthemearly.Eye protectionshouldn'tbeanafterthought,andtheonlywaytoget startedistoconsciouslykeepthoseeyescovered.Workwithyour kids,sothey'reexcitedtoputonsunglassesandweartheirhats. Educatethemontheimportanceofskincareandeyehealthsothey canfostergoodhabitsasadults.And,makesureyou'repracticing thosegoodhabits!Toprotectyoureyesfromthesunthissummer:

WearSunglasses-Sunglasseskeepyoureyescoveredand protectedfromUVrays.Youdon'thavetobreakthebanktoget sunglassesthatprovideadequateprotection,butmakesuretheystate 100%UVAandUVBprotection.Ifyouweareyeglasses,haveaplan forhowtoprotectyoureyes(whetherthat'sprescriptionsunglasses, switchingtocontacts,orconsideringatransitionslensframe).

WearHats-Sunglassesofferalotofprotection,butnotfull coverage.Therearestillgapsaroundthelensesthatgiveaccessto sunrays.Wide-brimmedhatshelphere,withfurthershadeprotection thatshieldstheentireface.

SeekShade-Beingoutinthesunisgoodforus,sodon'tfeellike youalwayshavetostayoutofitsway.But,besuretoseekshadeat regularintervalsandwhenthesunisparticularlybrutalorbright. Shadeprovidesrelieffromraysandhelpsusprotectourbodies.

4.Consideryouroutdoorenvironment.

Thinkaboutwhereyouarethissummer.Differentenvironments mayrequiredifferenteyecareneeds.Forexample,ifyou'respending alotoftimeatapoolorbodyofwater,itwillbeimportanttoalso considerthechemicalcomponentofthewaterandtheneedfor goggles.Ifyou'reatabeach,ahatandsunglassesareamust.If you'reinacity,sunglassesmaybeenoughprotection.

Ifyou'resomeonewhowearscontacts,planaheadandalways haveeyedropsonhandincaseyoureyesbecomeirritatedor dehydrated.Ifyouwearglasses,besuretohaveaplanforsun protectionandameansofshieldingyoureyes(evenifthebestyou candoisahat).Planningaheadandshowingsomeforesightisan importantcomponentinpreventativeeyecare.

5.Scheduleregulareyeappointments.

EyeSafetyTips—OphthalmoscopyinLafayette,IN

Checkinginwithanoptometristisimportant.Ifyouwear correctivelenses,thenmakesureyou'rekeepingyourannual appointmentsoyourdoctorcankeeptrackofyourvisiontoensure nomajorchangesarehappening.

Ifyoudon'twearorneedcorrectivelenses,it'sstillimportantto checkinwithaneyedoctor,especiallyforkids.Anappointment everythreeyearsforkids,oreveryfourtofiveyearsforanadult,can helpyoufindanylong-termvisionconcernsthatmaybedeveloping.

https://www.mathervisiongroup.com/five-ways-protect-eyes-from-sun

WANTED VACANCY

Wanted: Experienced Puri Maker and Counter Person. Apply @ Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts. Call: 654-1361.

Mechanic, Welder & Tm

Driver for Interior location, canter Driver & Porter for Georgetown. Contact: 2235273-4/ 621-5907.

Small family/ couple to live and work on farm at Long Creek, Linden. Call: 231-4831.

Able-bodied Male or Handy boy needed. Call: 661-1000.

Guyana Association of Georgia honours outstanding...

East Bank Electrical is now hiring Electrical Engineer, Outside Sales Staff & Counter Sales Staff. Call: 604-6394, sales@eastbankelectrical.com

Live-in Housekeeper needed to cook, clean and do laundry in Virgina, USA. Free room & boarding offered. Call: 845-325-8241.

1 Salesman & Labourer, Cxc Subjects, experience in writing bills, stocktaking and cashing. Apply at Keyfood Mc. Doom Village.

From page 17 she moved into social and economic research focusing on gender equity, violence against women, social justice, poverty alleviation and sustainable human development. For more than two decades, Rev. Osbourne had worked as a gender analyst, researcher, trainer, and consultant to international organisations and adviser to Caribbean governments in areas such as economic and cultural issues and violence among others. She served with AmeriCorps as a volunteer in service to America with Habitat for Humanity international designing a strategy (Aging in Place) that allowed older adults to

age in their own homes and communities, in safe housing and neighbours.

In his written message, former Prime Minister and Ambassador at the New York based Guyana Embassy, Samuel Hinds, expressed gratitude for the “...strides and contributions you Guyanese born have been making in your adopted home, the USA, and the support that you have been extending to relatives and friends and communities back home.”

lenges. “...no more do we have the excuse of lack of money for not becoming developed people in a developed country.”

Hinds agreed that education in its broad sense is a major factor for human development. He said that the additional oil money will aid in financing greater investments in education, health, housing, telecommunications and other important sectors.

ment. She was elated to announce, therefore, the expansion of the Association’s offerings from first year college scholarships to developmental, entrepreneurial; business and community scholarships to adults re-entering institutions of higher learning. She said knowledge is power and education is the most powerful tool one could attain in a fast-changing world.

VACANCY

He urged the Association to keep up its good work in supporting young people, especially its educational aspect which is essential to the development of future leaders.

The President noted that the Association has provided some 160 scholarships to recipients over the years and acknowledged sponsors and other donors for their continued support.

One Hauler Driver needed, starting salary $12K. Call: 6117088 for more information.

Wanted! Male & Female workers for packaging pasta and chowmein on the Back Road (Mandela Ave). Call: 611-7839.

Looking for a reliable live-in aide for an elderly woman. Call: 686-8051.

Cleaner, Farm Workers, Excavator & Bobcat Operators, Welder and fabricator required. Call: 621-6969, 6157784/ 716-8509.

Mechanic for diesel & gasoline engines, Labourers and Maintenance Workers required. Call: 621-6969, 6157784, 716-8509.

1 Housekeeper, 2 Cooks and 1 Admin Clerk needed. Call: 223-0771.

Live-in Domestic/ Maid needed. Must know to cook. Call: 686-2201.

Female needed to work in the Interior, ages 18 years and older. Call: 699-8486.

Experienced Housekeeper/ Babysitter needed. Ages 2545 years. Must be great with kids and can cook. Call: 6183892.

Mani-Pedicurist, Lash & Nail Technicians needed. Call: 643-5855.

One Maid needed to work 4 days weekly. Call: 624-8591. Start a career in the hotel industry! One General Worker needed at Guesthouse in Land Of Canan. Call: 6680306.

One experienced Sales girl to work in Boutique Located in Georgetown. Call: 698-7152.

Hinds told the Association that with the discovery of oil in Guyana, there is a new additional, steadily increasing income flow which the government is directing towards accelerating the growth and development of all Guyanese. The Ambassador noted that growth and development is primarily a matter of the growing and development of people, as individuals and all together as a team, to better produce and provide the goods and services which are desired. He said that while the finding of oil may be a good thing, it also brings with it many chal-

President of the GAOG Merlyn Osborne in her address to the gathering said the Association has met its goals and objective of serving its communities, with various programs, increased its membership and continuing to support its young people in their academic endeavours. The President said the Association’s overarching goal is to strengthen generations for the future thus reinforcing the Body’s commitment to academic empower-

The GAOG which is a non-profit organisation registered in the State of Georgia was formed in 1991. What started off as a group of Guyanese getting together at a backyard bar-b-que has evolved into a vibrant organisation made up of active members, generous sponsors, supporters and friends. The scholarship banquet is just one of the many annual events held by the organisation. The Secretariat is located at 1970 Panola Road, Lithonia GA 30078

Indigenous fashion captivates local runway...

From page 54 petroglyphs, birds, animals, flowers of the rain forest.

Matt and Annie’s art bring walls and clothing to life. Their designs specialised in portrait painting and drawing, cartoon animation, mural and backdrop painting, hand painted clothing, tailoring and alteration.

parel products. LEA first started as an online business to provide unique stylish streetwear and apparel products.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

One CRV Honda, $3.3M negotiable and 1 Toyota Allion, $3.350 M, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage . Contact: 649-0956.

1 new Kia Sportage Jeep. 2020 year model, fully loaded, low mileage and immaculate condition. Call: 618-3575/ 691-7123.

Experienced able-bodied Canter Driver and Yard man needed, flexible hours. Call: 614-1819.

Male needed to work in the Interior, 18 years and older. Call: 674-9999.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, ages 23-50, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.

One male and female ablebodied Staff needed to work in a store. Call: 225-2313, 2261497, 658-8559. FOR

Vacancy for 2 experienced Hairdresser needed in Grove, EBD. Call: 652-5800.

Male and female Factory Worker and Office Clerk needed. For more information Call: 226-2621.

Lethem Exclusive Apparel (L.E.A), a business partnership aimed at designing and providing quality Guyanese and Indigenous themed ap-

The idea of L.E.A is to add stylish, contemporary, quality souvenir tees when travelling combined with the passion to promote Indigenous culture and representation. “You don’t have to wait until it is September to represent, our products can be worn anywhere and anytime of the year,” the brand boasts.

Vanda Designs was also featured on the runway. She provided quality and affordable wearable art of our Indigenous culture, environment and way of life.

Natasha David is ranked amongst the best Indigenous designers in Guyana and the Caribbean. She started her career creating beautiful dresses from banana leaves for dolls in 2007. In 2009, she participated in Guyana Fashion week creating a full collection for the first time.

“Beyond the Brush Exhibition” promises...

From page 56 creating a tapestry that binds us together.

connect@fineartgy.com

SERVICES

Visa Application to Canada and U.S.A, graphics design, advertisements,USA

passport application forms & i130 application. Call: 6267040.

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.

Free firearms safety course for all female license firearm holder at Liberty ranges Inc. Call: 223-0771.

One male Cleaner needed to work in Eccles. Call: 615-9132.

Maid needed to cook and clean at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

Carpenters, Labourers, Masons & Skilled men needed, wages $7,000-$10,000 per day & Labourer 5-6K per day. Call: 650-1394, 692-7110.

Sales & Delivery Clerks, Warehouse Manager & Forklift Operator needed. Apply@ Lens 136 Sheriff Street. Call: 227-2486/ 2271511, Email: lensgy @outlook.com

Cashier, supermarket Helper needed. Apply in person with written application at Nirva Superstore Sheriff & Craig Street. Call: 227-5771.

Newly built 2 bedrooms apartment located in Farm, EBD. Amenities included, $110,000 monthly. Call: 6678684.

Shop for rent at Stewartville opposite secondary schoool. Contact: 649-2179.

She said too there will be an attractive commercialized space (sponsored by Impressions Branding) that will generally captivate what the artist’s work can produce or generate to earn a little more money while actively pursuing an art career.

She noted too there is early access to handpicked artworks.

“You can reserve your favourite pieces before the exhibition opens to the public. Exclusive pricing will be available for preorder customers; this opportunity to meet and interact with the artists.”

Barrow-Brown stressed that FineArt.gy dedicated to fostering a thriving environment for both emerging and established artists. By supporting artists, FineArt.gy enhances careers and contributes to our collective human experience.

“Art serves as a powerful medium for self-expression and storytelling, resonating deeply with audiences. Supporting artists through FineArt.gy promotes creativ-

ity and diversity, enriching our cultural landscape.

FineArt.gy also plays a vital role in preserving and evolving Guyanese culture. By showcasing Guyanese artists’ work, it becomes a conduit for cultural heritage, fostering pride and global appreciation,” she explained.

According to BarrowBrowne, the gallery’s comprehensive representation services enhance artists’ reach and impact by managing promotion and networking.

EDUCATION

Gold and silver jewellery course, male and female ages 15-30 years old. For more info WhatsApp: 7163170.

The artist said the catalog is available on FineArt.gy, the online art gallery that is on Facebook, and is committed to providing authentic Guyanese art to visitors and local art enthusiasts.

Additionally, patrons can make their reservation via the website

AdHocAdvisoryGrouponHaitimeetswithCaribbeanpartners

CMC Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders attending the 78th sessionoftheUnitedNations General Assembly (UNGA) haveparticipatedinapivotal high-levelmeetingoftheAd Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti.

Themeeting,heldonthe sidelines of the UNGA, was led by Canada’s Prime MinisterJustinTrudeau,and according to a statement issued following the meeting, noted that “this significant diplomatic engagement underscores the commitmentof the involved nations to address critical issues facing Haiti and promoteregionalstability

“The meeting provided a platform for high-level discussionsonstrategiesto support Haiti in its path t o w a r d s t a b i l i t y, prosperity, and effective governance Leaders from the Caribbean region came togethertoexchangeideas, shareinsights,andreaffirm their collective dedication to fostering positive changeinHaiti,”according tothestatement

St Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew expressed his optimism about the collaborative efforts, acknowledging that thechallengesfacedbyHaiti are shared challenges and a collective response must reflectasharedcommitment to the well-being and

progress of the Haitian people.

The statement said that the meeting “provided a valuable opportunity for world leaders to align their efforts, explore innovative solutions, and mobilise resources to address the multifaceted challenges facingthenation”.

Caribbean leaders will attend a summit in Ottawa next month, where the discussions are likely to focus on how best to reinforce security for neighbouring countries as well.

“What’s happening in Haitiisobviouslyterriblefor the people of Haiti It’s devastating what’s taking place, but it’s also very dangerousforthesecurityof the whole region,” said Bob Rae, Canada’s ambassador totheUN.

“That’s been an approach, again, that we’ve been pressing f o r a n d m o v i n g forward on, and I’m quite optimistic that we’re going to see a little bit more light and agreement in the next few weeks.

Earlier this year, Canada announced plans to co-ordinate a multilateral effort that would help make the Haitian police a more effective security force

T h o s e e f f o r t s i n c l u d e d a “ c oordination cell” to assess their most pressing needs, such as training and equipment and to figure out how supporting countries could best meet those requests.

P r i m e M i n i s t e r Trudeau would not say whether Canada will take part in a Kenyal e d m u l t i n a t i o n a l securitymissioninHaiti

Media reports suggest a request for approval for a security mission could arrive at the UN Security Council as early as next week, but Prime Minister Trudeau assiduously

Jamaica declares dengue outbreak

JamaicaObserver-The Ministry of Health and Wellness has declared a dengue fever outbreak in Jamaica.

In a release Saturday, the ministry said its NationalSurveillanceUnit advised that the island has surpassed the dengue epidemicthresholdforJuly and August and is on a trajectory to do the same forSeptember

“This means, the country has seen an increase in the number of cases compared to what is normallyseenduringthese months of the year,” the ministrystated.

A s o f F r i d a y, September 23, the country

had recorded 565 suspected, presumed and confirmedcasesofdengue, the ministry said. Of that number,78caseshadbeen confirmed, with the majority of the cases in Kingston and St Andrew, St Catherine and St Thomas, according to the release.

The ministry said the dominant strain has been Dengue Type Two, which is one of the deadliest and has not been predominant inJamaicasince2010.The strain, in addition to fever, can cause two or more other symptoms of typical dengue infection and can befatal.

However, there are no

dengue-related deaths classified at this time, but six deaths are being investigated, the ministry said.

Dengue is a mosquitoborne disease. The Aedes agypti mosquito, which transmits the disease, is endemictoJamaica.

Dengue symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rash. Inasmallnumberofcases, the potentially deadly dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) may develop, resulting in internal bleeding, enlargement of theliver,andhighfever

Jamaica last had a dengueoutbreakin2019.

avoided any hint that Canadawouldplayarole

“Let’s be very clear that Canada is one of the countries, if not the country, that has been l e a n i n g i n m o s t substantively and standing up for the Haitian people,” he told a news conference, adding that, “Canada is taking action in significant ways, but Canada also has 30 years of experience in supporting the Haitian people.

“The only lasting solutions will come throughworking with the

Frompage20 wordsofencouragement.

“Sir was one of the persons in my head and kept me motivated about getting to the finish line. He would encourage me; he would say to me 'Lazanadon'tgiveup'. He even called past students who would have passed through similar trials like me and they spoke to me andthatkeptmegoingtill

Henry, Prime Minister Trudeau said, “There is no solution to this situation fromoutside “We have a role to play from outside… but we need to see more dialogue, more consensus-building within HaitiandaroundtheHaitian people.”

Speaking during the ad-hoc meeting, Prime M i n i s t e r Tr u d e a u acknowledged that “it’s been very difficult, in t e r m s o f g e t t i n g agreement and making progress, but we are getting somewhere”.

Haitian people themselves, empowering the Haitian people themselves to d i r e c t a n d t a k e responsibility for the future ”

Haiti has been thrown into turmoil since the July 7, 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, w i t h t h e i n t e r i m Government of Prime Minister Dr Ariel Henry urging the international community to send in a multinational force to maintain peaceandsecurity inthecountry

Speaking during a bilateralmeetingw i t h

theend,”sherecounted.

A s a r e s u l t , Hollingsworth pressed on and successfully passed all five subjects at CSEC.

“I got all my subjects. I criedforallthesacrificesI madeitpaidoff,”shesaid joyfully “Now, I want to encourage persons who neverwroteCSEC.Iwant them to know that it's never too late if you want to go back to school; go

That includes an emerging consensus that security, humanitarian a i d , s u s t a i n a b l e d e v e l o p m e n t , a n d political and legal accountability mustallbe components of any effective solution.

Rae said, from the Canadian perspective, outside interventions are likely to have little to no lasting impact without the Haitians themselves playingaleadingrole.

“I think those views, which we’ve had for a long time, are now becoming more broadly accepted. So whatever emerges from the Security Council we hope will be part of that implementation,”hesaid.

back but you have to prepare to put in the work,”shesaid.Givenher success,theyoungmother plans to take her studies further

“IknownowthatIam notgoingtostop;Iwantto go even further, ” Hollingsworth said. She has her eyes set on pursuing petroleum engineering studies at the UniversityofGuyana.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau led the discussions

“It's never too late to go back to school”...

At UN, African leaders say enough is enough: They must be partnered with, not sidelined

AP — If you listen to the African leaders addressing the U.N. General Assembly this year, the message is emphatic and unanimous: The continent is done being a victim of a post-World War II order. It is a global power in itself and must be partnered with — not sidelined.

Most of Africa has logged a lifetime of independence — roughly 60 years — and the continent of more than 1.3 billion people is more conscious of the challenges stifling its development. There’s also a new boldness that comes with the African Union’s G20 seat.

“We as Africa have come to the world, not to ask for alms, charity or handouts, but to work with the rest of the global community and give every human being in this world a decent chance of security and prosperity,”

Kenyan President William Ruto said.

In recent years, Africa has been clear about its capacity to become a global power, from efforts to tackle climate change at home — such as the existential threat of climate change upending lives and livelihoods in the region, despite Africa contributing by far the least to global warming — to helping to foster peace elsewhere, like in Russia and Ukraine.

In his address, Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo blamed Africa’s present-day challenges on “historical injustices” and called for repa-

rations for the slave trade.

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa said the continent is poised to “regain its position as a site of human progress” despite dealing with a “legacy of exploitation and subjugation.” Nigeria’s leader, Bola Tinubu, urged his peers to see the region not as “a problem to be avoided” but as “true friends and partners.”

“Africa is nothing less than the key to the world’s future,” said Tinubu, who leads a country that, by 2050, is forecast to become the third most populous in the world.

With the largest bloc of countries at the United Nations, it is understandable that African leaders increasingly demand a bigger voice in multilateral institutions, said Murithi Mutiga, program director for Africa at the Crisis Group. “Those calls will grow especially at a time when the continent is being courted by big powers amid growing geopolitical competition.”

A PARADOX, YET UNSTOPPABLE

On the U.N.’s sidelines, the African Development Bank mobilized some political and business leaders at an event tagged “Unstoppable Africa,” a phrase seen as reflective of the continent’s aspirations just days after the first-ever Africa Climate Summit called richer countries to keep their climate promises — and invest.

But with a young popula-

tion set to double by 2050, Africa is the only rapidly growing region where its people are getting poorer and where some are celebrating the rampant takeover of their democratically elected governments by militaries.

“Africa is a paradox,” said Rashid Abdi, Horn of Africa/ Gulf chief analyst at the Nairobi-based Sahan Research think tank. “It is not just a continent of dwindling hope, there are parts of Africa where we are seeing innovation, progressive thinking and very smart solutions.”

Abdi said the world is becoming more interested in Africa and how it contributes to current global challenges.

“There is definitely potential for Africa to be more assertive and to drive progressive and fairer change in the global system,” he said.

For Ghana’s Akufo-Addo, correcting an “unfair” world order must begin with the payment of reparations from the era during which an approximated 12.5 million people were enslaved, according to the often-referenced TransAtlantic Slave Trade Database.

“It is time to acknowledge openly that much of Europe and the United States have been built from the vast wealth harvested from the sweat, tears, blood and horrors of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and the centuries of colonial exploitation,” Akufo-Addo said.

A SEAT AT THE TABLE

The continent relies heavily on foreign aid for its development needs, receiving the largest share of total global aid, according to the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Still, it continues to suffer from a global financial system that forces its countries to pay eight times more than the wealthiest European nations, resulting in surging debt that eats up what is left of dwindling government revenues.

In 2022, Africa’s total public debt reached $1.8 trillion, 40 times more than the 2022 budget of the continent’s largest country Nigeria, according to the U.N.’s agency for trade and development.

“Africa has no need for partnerships based on official development aid that is politically oriented and tantamount to organized charity,” President Felix-Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo said. “Trickling subsidies filtered by the selfish interests of donors will certainly not allow for a real and effective rise of our continent.”

Tshisekedi’s country has the world’s largest reserves of cobalt and is also one of the largest producers of copper, both critical for clean energy transition.

What Africa needs instead, according to Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi, is a more inclusive global financial system. In such a system, Nyusi said,

Africans can participate as “a partner that has (a) lot to offer to the world and not only a warehouse that supplies cheap commodities to countries or international multinational corporations.”

The coronavirus pandemic laid bare how the challenges could be life-threatening: Officials were forced to confront that barely any drugs or vaccines were made on the continent, and that more solutions need to start at home.

CHALLENGES LIE AHEAD

Africa’s capacity is not only in its population but also its rich natural resources. However, speaking with a collective voice is stymied by national-focused, rather than regional, policies, said Ibrahim Mayaki, the African Union’s special envoy for food systems.

“The main obstacle to Africa’s development is its fragmentation in 50-plus countries,” said Mayaki at a New York event organized by the Africa Center think tank.

As African leaders spoke glowingly about the continent as a force on the global stage, some at home said the leaders must begin by delivering the dividends of democracy to their people.

In this richly endowed region, at least half of its 54 countries are among the 30 least developed in the world, according to the latest U.N. Human Development Index.

“People will respect you

naturally if you’re doing well as a leader and they see your people are not suffering,” said Grace Agbu, a resident of Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja. “You don’t beg people to respect or partner with you.”

In Nigeria, chronic corruption and bad governance have robbed millions of the benefits of being Africa’s largest economy.

And on the day Ghana’s Akufo-Addo demanded equal rights and justice for Africa in his address, police officers in his country were arresting dozens protesting the country’s worst economic crisis in decades.

“If Africa wants to be taken seriously, its leaders need to address the serious challenges the continent confronts including preventable ones such as acute conflict in several parts of Africa and a wave of coups, some driven by despair among the population about a failure to deliver security and basic governance,” said the Crisis Group’s Mutiga.

Guinea’s military leader told the General Assembly the continent’s challenges sometimes have to be addressed by soldiers like him when elected presidents fail to do so. He took power after a 2021 coup.

“The era of the old Africa is over,” Col. Mamadi Doumbouya said. “This is the end of an unbalanced and unjust era where we had no say. It is time to take our proper place.”

Kane scores hat-trick as Bayern thrash Bochum

(BBC Sport) - England captain Harry Kane scored a hat-trick and assisted twice as Bayern Munich extended their unbeaten start to the Bundesliga season.

Kane reacted quickly to smash home a loose ball in the Bochum box in the first half before converting a penalty after the break.

He secured the match ball by turning home a pass from Noussair Mazraoui in the 88th minute.

Kane delivered precise passes to set up Leroy Sane and teenager Mathys Tel.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Matthijs de Ligt also scored for the Bavarians.

Kane, whose goal on Wednesday helped Bayern to a 4-3 Cham-

pions League victory over Manchester United, has netted seven in his first five Bundesliga matches.

The haul on Saturday was his first domestic league hat-trick since December 2017, when he scored consecutive trebles for Tottenham against Burnley and Southampton.

Thomas Tuchel’s Bayern now have four wins and one draw after their opening five games and top the table with 13 points.

Bochum, who were pulled apart whenever Bayern went forwards and thoroughly outclassed, continue to look for their first victory of the campaign.

Sunday September 24, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

People are apt to try to hit you square on the head with their ideas and thoughts today, Aries, so be ready for the onslaught of information that may come your way. There's a distinct advantage.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Anchor yourself in practical matters before you try to prove your point to others. There's a great deal of primal energy rising within you today and searching for some sort of outlet.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Don't take no for an answer today, Gemini. Know what you believe in and stick with it. There's a distinct advantage to holding true to your inner nature.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

Be a pioneer thinker today, Cancer. There's a noble courage in your thoughts, so don't let this quality go to waste. You will be surprised at how cutting edge you can be when you put your mind to it.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Be aggressive and forceful when it comes to exerting your will, Leo. Let others know that you won't be a pushover. Your opinions are extremely important,

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Today may be one of those days in which you come to a four-way stop and no one knows whose turn it is. Don't sit and wait for everyone else to go first, Virgo.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

People would be foolish to challenge your thinking now, Libra. The power behind your words is volatile, and you may find yourself going to extremes in order to get your point across.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

Your old ways of thinking have carried you quite far, Scorpio, but you may now find that it's time to seek a new platform for your ideas. Look for more adventurous ways to express yourself.

SAGIT (Nov.22–Dec.21)

One quick phone call to a friend may turn into a long discussion about the meaning of life, Sagittarius. Be conscious of the fact that there's a great deal of momentum building in your mind now.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

It could be that you feel a bit of pressure today to start or create something that you aren't quite ready for, Capricorn. There is hesitation on your part that indicates you should take it slowly .

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Move forward with your plan of attack today, Aquarius. There's an anxious rumble within you that's urging you to get going with a current plan. You have all the facts you need,

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Add spark to your life today, Pisces. It could be that things are getting stale and boring. If so, consider the possibility that you simply aren't challenging yourself.

From page 73

Knight Riders, alongside captain Kieron Pollard, Dwyane Bravo and Martin Guptill.

Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Azam Khan, who literally won Guyana’s last game with his unbeaten 50, will need to show up big again for their side.

Bowling for both teams have been great throughout the tournament. TKR’s bowling will rest on the shoulders of spinner Akeal Hossain pacer Ali Khan and possibly Sunil Narine who missed the last game.

Bravo was good in the last game and will remain a big factor along with the other pieces.

South African pacer Dwaine Pretorius and Romario Shepherd helped level Jamaica on Friday, while Gudakesh Motie and either Ronsford Beaton/Shamar Joseph could play roles.

Tonight’s outcome could make or break the Warriors for good while TKR will be seeking their 5th title and a spot in the CPL history books.

Nobody other than Harry Kane, who has 7, has scored more than five times in their first five Bundesliga games for Bayern Munich. (Getty Images

Arch rivals, Amazon Warriors..

The Lady Jags hunting three points today

...GuyanatobattleDominicainBarbados

ByRawleToney

After a heart-wrenching 2-1 loss to Antigua and Barbados,theLadyJagsfind

themselves in a must-win situation for the remaining gamesinGroupAofLeague B during the Concacaf

Women’s Gold Cup qualifiers.

The country’s senior Nationalwomen’steamwill

face Dominica today from 4:00 pm at the Wildey Astroturf in Barbados, where Coach Omar Khan willlooktochalkuphisfirst win since being announced astheside’sHeadCoachlast week by the Guyana FootballFederation(GFF).

Concacaf imposed a sanctionontheGFF,forcing the Guyanese women to relinquish their homeground advantage and play in the Land of the Flying Fish However, this inconvenience is of no concerntotheLadyJags,as theirsolefocusisonearning threecrucialpoints.

In the current group standings, Suriname leads the table, holding an advantage based on their goal-scoring performance, following their convincing 4-0 victory over Dominica lastWednesday

Guyanawillalsoclosely monitor the clash between Suriname and Antigua and Barbuda, which will take place today at the Dr Franklin Essed Stadion in Paramaribo.

Reflecting on the team’s previous performance, the Lady Jags’ head coach acknowledged defensive

lapses and promised corrections for today’s crucialgame.

Coach Khan stated, “I think we know what to do, we know what to work on, we can analyze the match, wesee.”

In preparation, the Lady Jags conducted a training session at Wildey, with a focusoncreatingmoregoalscoring opportunities for their forwards, Otesha Charles, Jalade Trim, and SandraJohnson.

Khan emphasised, “We have to improve our ball possessionandcapitalizeon

our chances. It’s a young team, so hard work and extensive training are essential. Hopefully, against DominicaonSunday,wecan showcaseourabilities.”

Followingtoday’smatch against Dominica, the Lady Jags will head to Suriname foragameonOctober25.

While Guyana is slated tohosttheirnexthomegame on October 29, uncertainty looms over the match’s locationduetorecentactions taken by Concacaf against the GFF regarding the state of the National Track and FieldCentre’sfootballfield.

Drawing for Prime Minister’s Softball Cup set for Sunday at DCC

Exactly one week before the commencementofthe7thPrime Minister’s Softball Three-day Cup under the auspices of the Georgetown SoftballCricketLeague(GSCL).

Things are shaping up nicely as the drawing for the teams to be done this Sunday at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC)ground,Queenstown,Georgetown.

AccordingtothepresidentoftheGSCL, IanJohn,theywillstartat12O’Clock.

Twelveteamsarereadytorumbleinthe Legends (Over-50) category while 8 sides willbecompetingintheMasters(Over-40) categoryand6teamsintheAll-Stars(Open) Division.

For the ladies, eight teams will be participating.Menwillbeplaying20-overs whilethegirlsareslatedfor15-overspera side.OverGuy$3Matstakewithsuccessful

teams and star-players will be awarded prizesaswell.

Again, John is revealing his appreciation to all the sponsors for their continuedcommitmenttothemegasoftball tournament.

Healsoexpressedhisgratitudetoallthe teams for their registration too and very optimistic this year’s event will be successfulaswell.

Several teams from Canada and USA have also registered to be part of the action.

Regal Legends and Masters are defending champions in their respective categories whileAriel of Guyana too ruled supremacylastyearintheOpen.4RLioness crownedtheLadies’champion.

Tournament dates: September 29, September30andOctober1

Lady Jags defender, Rylee Traicoff had a solid game againstAntigua and Barbuda and will be key for the side today against Dominica

GOA hosts successful Sports Medicine workshop

Asnippet from yesterday’s workshop

Th e G u y a n a O l y m p i c Association (GOA) took a significant step towards improving the performance of its athletes whilereinforcingitspolicies and strategic vision by hosting a Sports Medicine Workshop. The event held yesterday at the GOA’s ‘Olympic House’ in Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, was attended by prominent figures in sports medicine and aimed to pave

the way forward for Guyana’s athletes under the leadership of President GodfreyMunroe.

The workshop, which was a tripartite collaboration between the GOA, the Ministry of Health, and the Guyana Physiotherapists Association, promised to enlighten participants on various aspects of sports medicine and athlete wellbeing

Dr Akshai Mansingh, the DeanoftheSportsFacultyat

the University of the West Indies, Mona campus, was among the distinguished guests in attendance His expertise in sports medicine has made him a renowned figureinthefield.

Also present was the ChiefMedicalOfficerofthe West Indies Cricket team and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), underlining the importance of sports medicineintheregion

President Godfrey Munroe, who has been

leading the GOA with great enthusiasm, graced the occasion with his presence. Coaches, athletes, and representatives from the association’s affiliate members were also in attendance, reflecting the event’s significance in Guyana’s sporting landscape.

The workshop delved into various crucial topics, including; types of sports injury and management: Participants gained insights

into identifying and managing different types of injuries They also discussed factors/steps to decrease the riskofinjuries,importanceof recoveryforathletes,aswellas the roles of coaches in the management of injuries and also the role of sports psychologists

President Godfrey Munroe expressed his excitement about the workshop’s success and highlighteditsimportancein the development of

Guyana’s sporting landscape.Hereiteratedthat this event marked the beginning of many such initiatives by the GOA to support and nurture the country’sathletes.

M e a n w h i l e , t h e workshop served as a platformtonotonlyenhance athleteperformancebutalso strengthen theAssociation’s policies, vision, and strategic plan, setting the stageforabrighterfuturefor Guyaneseathletes.

BFA benefits from GFF’s M-Fap outreach

GRASSROOTS

football and

Female Football are strategic priorities of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and each Club must play their part in developing initiatives to grow these two areas at the clublevel.

Through the Members

Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP), the GFF will provide the Technical/Coaching Education, equipment and other resources to the clubs - “You do, we do ”

This was the message delivered by President Wayne Forde as he wrapped up a successful 2 days outreach in the B a r t i c a F o o t b a l l

Association (BFA)

There, Forde was also accompanied by the GFF Competition Director, Troy Peters.

During his visit, he met with the Bartica Football Association ( B FA ) E x e c u t i v e Committee,theClubs,the Mayor and other key regional stakeholders GFF Head, Forde also visited the BFA Academy Training Centre (ATC) and interacted with the boys and girls during t h e i r r o u t i n e o n S a t u r d a y m o r n i ng grassrootssession.

Forde also distributed football equipment to the Clubs and congratulated them for contributing to the success of the BFA Seniormen’sleague M r F o r d e a l s o commended on BFA P r e s i d e n t , A l d e n Marslowe and his team for their example of leadership and the impact the M-FAP programme is having on the growth of FootballwithintheBFA.

GFF Head, Wayne Forde (centre) with BFAExecutives during M-FAPoutreach

Foster elected Chairman of RHT Police Station Management Committee

Several prominent community and s p o r t s personalities, businessmen andeducatorsareamongthe persons elected to take charge of the Rose Hall Town Police Station. These persons will be a part of the Station Management Committee.

One of the main objectives of the committee is to help foster a closer relationship between the Policeandthecommunity.

Ameetingwasconvened bytheActingCommanderof theRegionalPoliceDivision No 6 Superintendent, Ravindra Stanley The meetingwasheldattheSaint Francis Community Developers (SFCD) where personswereelectedtoserve as Executive Members and CommitteeMembers.

Among those in attendanceweremembersof the Community, and police officers. At the end of the Meeting an election of the office bearers was done where persons were elected to serve in the various capacities.

Elected to serve in the capacity of chairman is

PresidentoftheSFCD,Alex Foster TheViceChairmanis prominent business, Peter Lewis, who has a long and distinguished career and the Secretary is police Corporal Mentore.

Town Clerk of the Rose Hall Town Municipality

Natasha Griffith will be

The newly elected members of the RHT Police Station Management Committee

serving in the position of AssistantSecretary President of the Guyana Teachers Union, Pastor and former Berbice cricketer, Mark Lyte, has been elected Treasurer

The coordinator is Assistant Superintendent of PoliceandformerBerbiceall

round cricketer, Michael Newland. There are also 10 Committeemembers.

In speaking to those in attendance,Stanleysaidthat while the Police have their primary objective of maintaining law and order and serving and protecting thecitizens,dealingwiththe

communities is also an integralpartoftheagenda. Healsotoldthegathering that there is a need to broaden the scope of cooperation between the GPF and members of the publictofosteranevenmore meaningful working relationship since the GPF

cannotworkinisolation. Foster, who has had a longandsuccessfulcareerin leadership and community activismisexpectedtobring hisvastexperiencetobear Several community and sporting activities will be planned in the future. (By SamuelWhyte)

Ten-man Man City beat Forest despite Rodri red card

(BBC

Sport) -

Leaders Manchester City were forced to hang on to beat Nottingham Forest after Rodri’s red card but still maintainedtheirperfectstart to the Premier League season.

City were cruising at the break thanks to early goals by Phil Foden and Erling Haaland but the game changed dramatically only 27secondsaftertherestart.

Rodri was shown a straight red for violent conduct after putting his hands around Morgan Gibbs-White’sthroatasthey tangled near the corner flag, withVARupholdingreferee AnthonyTaylor’sdecision.

Forest had been outplayed until that point, with City slicing them open with sparkling attacks down the right to score both their goals inside the first 15 minutes.

Kyle Walker set up Foden to fire home City’s opener with a fine first-time

finish, before Matheus Nunes crossed from the same flank for an unmarked Haalandtoheadhome.

The second half was a different story, however, withCityhavingtodiginto protect their lead - and they mostlysucceededinkeeping Forestatarms’length.

Clear chances for the visitors remained few and far between, with Orel Mangalascoopingoneshot over and Taiwo Awoniyi offtargetfromcloserange, before Ederson denied AnthonyElangalateon

Tempers continued to boil over in the closing minutes, with City manager Pep Guardiola andthehomefansunhappy with more of Taylor’s decisions, but City still heldouttomakeitsixwins outofsix

With the rest of the top four playing on Sunday the defending champions are now five points clear at the topofthetable.

Foden scored 11 league goals last season - his opener against Forest was his first of this campaign. (PAMedia)

Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League 2023… Arch rivals, Amazon Warriors & TKR square off for final dance at Providence

The final battle of the 2023CPL2023editionisset to be the most exciting, intensematchtodate,asthe Guyana Amazon Warriors look to finally break their jinx as Trinbago Knight Riders seek out their 5th title.

Guyana Amazon

Warriors topped regular season table with 8 wins from 10 games. They lost Trinbago Knight Riders in the Qualifier 1 before hammering former champs Jamaica Tallawahs as they set up another battle against theirlongtimecricketfoes.

Knight Riders, on the other hand, was the second bestteamoftheleaguestage, winning 6 out of the 10 games. The team will be confidentgoingintothefinal given that they thrashed GuyanaintheQualifier1.

NicholasPooranremains keyforTKRhaving290runs in the tournament including acentury.Ontheotherhand Shai Hope has enjoyed a greatrunintheseasonforthe Warriors,currentlysittingas the leading run scorer of the tournamentwith449runsin 12games.

Warriors captain Imran Tahir has been in great wicket taking form in CPL 2023.The44yearoldenters the final as the leading wicket-taker of the tournament with 16 wickets and could possibly continue hisroleasanX-factor

Match-winner from the last ecounter between the two sides, veteran and former Amazon Warriors batsman Chadwick Walton, who scored 80, will once againbekeyforTrinbago

(Continuedonpage69)

Trinbago Knight Riders will be playing for their fifth title in tonight’s finale. (Getty Images)

GuyanaAmazon Warriors are seeking their maiden title this evening with home turf advantage.