Kaieteur News

Granger's extension on Exxon's blocks was kept a secret for three years

Guyana continues to see its oil and gas sector mired in one secret dealing after another. It was only recently revealed that former President David Granger made a critical decision regarding three extremely valuable offshore assets held by ExxonMobil, and this was kept from public knowledgeforthreeyears.

In 2020, as the pandemic sent shockwaves across industries worldwide, ExxonMobil decided to seek refuge under the force majeure provision in its petroleum agreements fortheStabroek,CanjeandKaieteuroil blocks offshore Guyana. The company asked former President Granger to allow extensions of one year for each contract, due to the pandemic's disruptions.

The request was made during a politically volatile time in Guyana — the2020electoralcrisis.

Unknown to the public, thenPresidentDavidGrangerhaddiscreetly approved a one-year extension for all threeblocks.

This covert decision remained buried until 2023 when Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, under the new government, disclosed it While Granger had unilaterally approved extensions for all blocks, the new administration endorsed only the extension for the Stabroek block, and

refraine

d from extending the same privilege to theKaieteurandCanjeblocks.Thenew government was not satisfied that the same extenuating circumstances which interfered with the Stabroek block work obligations, was justifiable for CanjeandKaieteur

Yet, what has genuinely stirred stakeholders is the absence of a law or statutetorequirethegovernmenttotell the public when it makes such significantdecisions.

This omission allows the government to make pivotal decisions about high-value offshore assets withouttheonusofpublicdisclosure.

Therecentdisclosures,orratherthe

lack thereof until recently, have sparked widespread concern and a question: What other major decisions have Guyana's leaders made and kept from the public, only to be revealed whenitispoliticallyexpedient?

Diving deeper into the timeline, Granger's decision, as revealed by official documents, was stamped on July24,2020.

This date stands out starkly, coming just a week before the swearing-in of the new administration onAugust2,2020.

It was a period marked by court battles, international interventions, and calls for the Granger government to step down after a contentious election thatthethenincumbenthadlost.

Making substantial decisions during such a turbulent transitional period isn't just questionable; it is fraught with ethical implications Granger's eleventh-hour force majeure approvals bear similarities to the oil blockawardsmadebyformerPresident Donald Ramotar just before the 2015 elections, and which resulted in years ofcontroversyandscandal.

Granger made those decisions, despite the murky history associated with the Kaieteur and Canje block awards, as well as the controversy surrounding the efficacy of the StabroekBlockcontract.

EAB conflict of interest case to be refiled as judge throws out matter due to error in claim

The conflict of interest case brought against

C h a i r m a n o f t h e

Environmental Assessment

B o a r d ( E A B ) , D r Mahendar Sharma and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Mr Joslyn McKenzie by civil society activist, Danuta Radzik was onWednesdaydismissedby aHighCourtjudge.

The matter was thrown out due to an error in the claim. As a result, lawyer for the applicant, Mr Mohamed Ali told Kaieteur News that the case will be refiled as soon as possible. “It was just an error but we will move to refile as soon aspossible,”hesaid.

Radzik had moved to court to challenge the legality of Sharma and McKenzie given that they are serving members of the EAB as well as employees of the government and have been tasked with making important environmental

Exxon's contractor, Schlumberger to grow revenue by US$5B this year - report

Giant oilfield services company, Schlumberger Ltd (NYSE:SLB) will grow its revenue by US$5B in the current year and by a similar amount in 2024 thanks to a recent resurgence in offshore andinternationaldrilling.

Schlumberger is one of E x x o n M o b i l ' s k e y contractors operating in Guyana. According to an OilPrice com report, previously, the company had forecast it would grow its topline by US$4.2 billion. SLB also expects to grow EBITDA by US$1.5 billion inthecurrentyear

Deepwater production remains the fastest-growing upstreamoilandgassegment with production set to

c ontractorsreallybusy.

Leading with impressive gains is deepwater drilling specialist, Transocean Ltd. (NYSE:RIG), whose stock hasgained95.8%intheyearto-date. RIG stock jumped nearly 10% after the company reported a threeyear US $518 million contract to deploy one of its drillships in the Gulf of Mexico, the latest in a series of large transactions announced in recent months. The company has revealed thatitsaggregateincremental backlog associated with the

decision. On Wednesday, High Court Justice Fidela Corbin upheld objections to the case which was filed for Judicial Review. She essentially agreed with the contention that the case could not stand since it was directed to Sharma and Mc Kenzie in their individual capacities instead of the EAB. Lawyer for Sharma, Arudanauth Gossai had argued that the claim was misguided in that Judicial

Review cases can only be brought against the decisionsofpublicbodiesor an officer performing a public function. Mr. McKenzie who was represented by attorney Darshan Ramdhani made an identical submission to the Court.

The attorneys had reasoned that neither Sharma nor McKenzie can b e c a l l e d o f f i c e r s performing a public

function since they are members of the EAB. According to Gossai the matter should have been brought against the EAB whichisthepublicbodythat makes the decisions as a collective Radzik had moved to the High Court in May challenging the legality of Sharma and McKenzie, in relation to their involvement in deliberatinganddecidingon (Continued on page 16)

increase by 60% by 2030. Ultra-deepwater production is set to continue growing at breakneck speed to account for half of all deepwater production by 2030 Deepwater production hit 10.4 million boe/d in 2022 from just 300,000 barrels of oilequivalentperday(boe/d) in 1990. Wood Mackenzie has predicted that by the end of the decade, that figure will pass17millionboe/d

Stocks of offshore oil and gas drillers and producers have gone on a tear after recent contracts broke records, reversing their seven-year downturn that reached its nadir during the Covid-19pandemic.

Rising global petroleum demand, coupled with increasing deepwater exploration and drilling, has been keeping offshore

latest contracts totals ~$1.2, bringing its total backlog to $9.2B.

Meanwhile,rigrateshave shot up to $480,000 a day, a 50%Y/Y increase and about triple the downturn's lows. Otheroffshoredrillingstocks with robust gains are Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc (NYSE:DO) +64 0% YTD; TechnipFMC Plc (NYSE:FTI) +74 4%; Seadrill Ltd. (NYSE:SDRL) +61.0%; Noble Corporation Plc (NYSE:NE) +47.7% and Oceaneering International Inc. (NYSE:OII) +43.1%. In contrast, the energy sector's favorite benchmark, the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE), has only managed an 8.1% return in the year-to-date while the broad market benchmark, S&P 500, has gained 19.0% overthetimeframe.

Former President, David Granger

CEO of the GEA, Mahendar Sharma Applicants: Danuta Radzik

Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS

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

EDITORIAL

Back to school

Schooldaysarehappy,happydays,likethesingersays. There are some serious challenges to that, as we try to encourage the daily armies of students, parents, and educators across the country on the roadways for the new schoolyearthatjustcommenced,andintheclassroomsof learning.

In contrast to the distant interior where there is more space than people, in the capital city Georgetown the relationship is reversed and it is tighter than a drum. But whether on roads or classrooms, there are some tense dynamics which all have to contend with, and work their way around in an increasingly tough combination of circumstances. Previously, students and teachers had to focus on the elements of the so-called three ‘Rs’ which involved reading, writing, and reckoning (arithmetic).

Fromthosehumbleorigins,thenextstageintheeducating andlearningfoodchainadvancedintotheheavierworldof systems and technology, and many subdivisions of some subjectstaughtintherunuptowhatisnowcalledCSECat thelowerlevel,andthenCAPEaspowerfulbiggerbrother There have been challenges with these in Guyana, even as muchasthingsarecompressedinthiswriting. Buttherehas been toiling, and there has been succeeding for the more hardworkingandconsistentamongouryoungminds.

But, now in addition to grappling with Physics and Pavlov,thenDarwinandtheDukeofWindsor,studentsand teachers are compelled to deal with the three ‘Ts’, which stretch even the hardiest to the edges of their capabilities. ThethreeTsaretraffic,torridness,andtorture.Wetakethem one by one as children and families returned to school to share a sense of the impacts that have been brutally felt in thesefirstdaysofthenewschoolyear/

Traffic, as in to get to the classroom, has now been reducedtoamasterpieceofinaction,giventheabundanceof vehicles,andrelativescarcityofroads. Thealarmingreality ofGuyana’sroads,withaneyeonGeorgetownandtheEast BankandEastCoastdistilstothis:morehastemeansmore intervalsofnonmovement. Toomanycarsandcommuters and too much congestion make for a difficult beginning to each school day This was the consistent story earlier in WeekOne,whentherewerebottlenecksallover

ThenthereisthesecondTthatnowmustbefacedduetoits nonstopfinality:itisthetorridness Theheathasalwaysbeen heavy,forthisistheTropics,butnotthisheavy Thecomplaints andlamentsarenumerous,andhaveacommoncharacteristic: youngcitizensandolderonespushedtothebrink Whenthe tightnessoftrafficandthetorridnessoftheconsumingheatare joined, they lead to the worst beginning imaginable for each daily trek From the roads there is roasting, which leaves all wringingwetandweakened Thisistheworstphysicalstateto begin a school day for both the ones being taught, and those doingtheteaching Withaneyetotheprogressoftheclock,and thearcofthesun,classroomshavetransformedintolivinghells Incidentally,thisisnotjustinGuyana,buthasbeenspokenofin, atleast,oneotherpartoftheregion Classroomshavebecome virtualfurnaces,andextremelychallengingspacesforteaching

Thereismorethananeducationalconcernastothethorough and satisfactory delivery of the curriculum For there is now whatamountstoapossiblehealthconcern Youngchildrenare distractedbytheheat,andpregnantteacherscouldbeputting themselvesatrisk,whileolderteachersaredrainedearlyoftheir energies. The point is that in the learning environment, all struggle, as they collide with the unrelenting heat in the classroom.

Fans help to a limited extent, but the overheated air is simply recirculated. Air conditioning would be an insurmountablyexpensiveconsiderationallatoneshot,but could be done in phases. Undoubtedly, this introduces energybillsintooperatingcosts. Theconstructionofnew school buildings re: where they are located, how they are builtandpowered,couldallmakeadifference. Meanwhile, the school apparatus swelters and shrinks, while learning plodsforward.

Anational holiday for Jews, leave the national motto alone

DEAREDITOR, HisExcellencyPresident Ali was recently mentioned inthepressforhisstatements during the launch of the InternationalSymposiumon the legacy of Islam in the Caribbean.The press stated, “The Head of State said that Guyana has the greatest example in the way its people live, collaborate, cooperate, and in the way they come together, respectingeachotherwhenit comes to religious tolerance andreligiousintegration”.In thepressHisExcellencyalso spokeagainstIslamophobia. Also, First Vice President, Prime Minister Mark Phillips was mentioned in the press as stating that the PPP/C Government remains committed to fostering inclusivity and equity It is great to hear that these two leaders of the government are committed to ensuring every Guyanese has a place inoursociety

Therefore,thecallforthe inclusionofthelocalJewish community in Guyana should not be neglected. In 2021 Israel donated $2M USDinPPEtoGuyana.This was after Guyana had voted in support of a Palestinian State in 2011 and the government’s recognition of the State of Palestine in 2019 Furthermore, the historyoftheinvolvementof

those who embrace the teachings of the Torah (the holy book of the Jews) in Guyana, was also a part of L F S B u r n h a m ’s Presidency During His Excellency President Burnham’s time he had embraced the inclusion of this community by recognizingYomKippurasa National Holiday. Yom Kippurisadayofatonement observed by all Jews. In keeping with the current administration’s objectives ofinclusivity,equity,mutual respect, religious tolerance andreligiousintegration,itis only just that the holiday of Yom Kippur be once again observed as a National Holiday This proposal was put forward to the Governmentinlate2022,but t o d a t e t h e A l i Administration has not responded nor shown interest in the Jewish community being a part of theOneGuyanainitiative.

CRG believes that our Nation’s motto still holds true today and that we as Guyanese should always embracethosewhoareapart of our citizenry.This should bedoneindependentofrace, religion, ethnicity and gender Personal preference and bias should never interfere in our Nation’s decision making. Inclusion isthefoundationuponwhich

a diverse multicultural society is built Our multicultural roots must continue to be reflected in our food, culture, holidays

and festivities The exclusion of any minority group will result in our inability as a Nation to achievetheobjectivesofour National Motto. Our Motto shouldneverbereplacednor changed to suit personal ambitions. The motto has been enshrined in our Constitution and is an integral part of our national identity One People, One Nation,OneDestinydoesn’t meanthatthe“One”belongs only to those who are in Government The “One” refers to all citizens of Guyana.Let’scometogether as “One” and do the correct thing by ensuring that all Guyanesehaveaplaceatthe table and that no “One” is excluded This includes those who we have historically had problems with in other parts of the world.

If our citizens are of a faith that has previously been an enemy of our personal faith, we must still recognize them as a part of our Nation. This stands true for Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jews and Rastafarians Part of the beauty of Guyana is our ability to find a common

purpose and a solution that allows us to peacefully coexist.Wemustasanation return to peaceful coexistence by making Guyana truly a place where inclusionandequityisaway of life. However, those who have mal intent must be excluded CRG does not believe that such mal intent goes beyond individual actions or the actions of a limited number of individuals We do not believe that what happens elsewhere in the world must also happen within our Nation’s borders. To think otherwise would cause furtherdivisionamongstour people. This is why we are still a land where all Indians can live as we did before partition. Where a Temple / Mandir and a Mosque / Masjid may be found in the same street and community Thisiswhywearestillaland ofsixpeoplepursuingliving as ‘One People in One Nation with One Destiny’. Let’s continue our efforts to come together and continue to sow the seeds of cooperation, inclusivity, equity, mutual respect, religious tolerance and religiousintegration.

Bestregards, Mr JamilChanglee Chairman T h e C o o p e r a t i v e RepublicansofGuyana

Jagdeo hasn’t brought anything to fruition, now an oil refinery deal looks questionable

DEAREDITOR

InaletterIntheKaieteur news datedAugust 14th and captioned ‘Why the Dominican Republic (DR) andnotTrinidadandTobago (T&T)’, a Mr Jamil Changlee questioned why snub T&T which has the capabilities Excellent question but ask the question, why snub Guyanese companies. If I can recall a number of proposals were sent in and I believe Turhane Doerga and others were developing refineryprojects.

President Ali tells business community “the government will continue to set the stage for investments

But the onus is also on businesses to be prepared to take advantage of the opportunities that are provided”. Well, it seems thattheVPandthePresident areonlyinterestedinforeign investors to the exclusion of

thelocalPrivatesector

We were told that there were a number of proposals for the construction of oil refineries in Guyana. These proposals were there for a very long time with no response from the government Then, suddenly, there was an announcementbytheVPthat the governmentwas seeking comprehensiveproposalsfor a refinery with the capacity of 30,000 barrels a day (BPD). Constructionwasto startinJanuary2023.TheVP stated that he did not want a refinery that was more than 30,000 BPD. He said the Governmentwouldsellonly 30,000 barrels a day of its profit oil and the rest would beexported.Hewantedonly onerefinery January has come and gone but no feedback from theOilandGasCzarandno refinery Now, we are hearing that the government

hassignedanMOUwiththe Dominican Republic Government for a refinery with a capacity for at least 50,000 BPD, so it can be more and a lot greater than 30,000 although the VP Bharat Jagdeo stated pellucidly he did not want one more than 30,000 BPD. He said earlier that the 30,000 BPD was to satisfy the needs of Guyana and I rebuked him asking what about the Caribbean. Now belatedly we are hearing about energy security of Guyana and the Caribbean but even then, 50,000 BPD would be insufficient, I suppose the gov would also have to sell more of Guyana oil to the local Company, Something Bharat said he didnotwant.

I am asking if these MOUs signed by this government have any value as I recall asking Moses Nagamootoo, who is an

attorney-at-law, when he wasPrimeMinister,whether an MOU has value and he said it was not worth the paperitiswrittenon.Maybe some legal person can confirmifwhatMosessaidis correct. Could our brilliant AttorneyGeneralshedsome light on this. If indeed what Moses said is true, then all these MOUs are just PR stunts and so having a refinerywouldremainapipe dream Also, confusion becomes greater with this announcement Is the government contemplating tworefineries?However,the VPclarifiedthatwehavethe capacity for only one refinery Well, this needs further clarification.TheVP needs to explain the limitation He needs to explain what factors he took into consideration when he stated that we have the capacityforonlyone.Idoubt

(Continuedonpage16)

Democracy in Guyana looks more dead than alive

DEAREDITOR, Itwouldberemissofme, as a citizen, to remain silent in view of the various pronouncementsbeingmade and actions taken that are antitheticaltodemocracyby those who profess to be the product of democracy, as in free and fair elections, and the ultimate guardians of democracy This situation begs the question: what is democracy?

Democracy may be described as a three dimensionalmatrixmadeup representativeness, responsiveness and responsible behaviour, as its essential elements The absence of any of those elements compromises democracy and a deficiency in any one undermines democracy

Representativeness is realizedthroughtheelection o f t h e p e o p l e s ‘ representatives, who then exercise sovereignty on the peoples‘ behalf. Inclusion and/or participation of the electedrepresentativesinthe

decision-making processes, as an essential aspect of Good Governance, provides for the realization of representativeness If representativeness is not observed, democracy becomes virtually nonexistent. Sadly, this is the case in Guyana.The elected officialsinthepersonsofthe President, Vice-President and their subordinates have openlyandexplicitlyrefused t o i n v o l v e t h e representatives of 40% plus of the electorate in the decision-making processes. While, our constitution specifies that “Local government is a vital aspect of democracy” they have refusedtoengagethelocally elected officials in constituencies where those representatives are from the opposition. They are also defying article 13 of the constitution which states “The principal objective of the political system of the State is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing

Africans were way ahead in skills and trades than Indians, then fell behind

opportunities for the participation of citizens and their organisations in the management and decision making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision- making that directly affect their wellbeing.” Therulingregime‘s behavior is autocratic; undermines the proclaimed democracy; and cannot be rationalized by claims that courtesiesliketheshakingof hands have not been observed In fact, the undemocratic behavior is metedoutacrossthesystem, at large. IDPADA-G has repeatedly observed the courtesyofhandshakingand repeatedly requested meetings,yettherehasbeen the indirect refusal to meet, followed by public pronouncements about meeting directly with the people, rather than their representatives.

Inherent in the aforementioned is the nonadherenceto

(Continuedonpage06)

INtheSNof9-1-23PNC strongman Mr Hamilton Green a former General Secretary of the PNC who was expelled in 1992 from thatpartywrotealettertitled “Odious to compare slavery withindentureship”

I am in total agreement with you Mr Green, that slavery for over 400 years was no Disneyland and before the arrival of Indians African slaves had cleared the forest leaving the sugar plantations for Indians, PortugueseandChinese.But you must agree, sir, that it wasIndianswhoclearedthe landstogrowrice.Youmust alsoadmitMrGreenthatrice production contributes s i g n i f i c a n t l y a n d consistently to the GDP of our country and by itself avoidsstarvationinGuyana. Editor,theIndianshadto endure the same hardship as the slaves except they were notboughtandsold.Indians were rather beaten, raped and held in a perpetual servitude to their Colonial masters.

It’struethatatthetimeof

Indian (Portuguese and Chinese) arrival in Guyana Blacks were well-trained (European)in nursing, education and various, trade skills such as carpentry, masonry,bakery,blacksmith etc

that befitted and trickled downtootherBlackpeople.

In reminding Professor Dr Randy Persaud of the benefits Indians received from slavery, Mr Green wrote “. On the contrary, he failed to note that it was the very teachers and nurses of African descent who willingly and lovingly taught Indo Guyanese and brought them into the mainstream of a western white cultural environment andallowedthemusingtheir industry, sense of purpose and determination to rise to thetop”

Mr Green couldn’t be righter In fact, Florida Governor Mr Ron Desantis who is a leading candidate fortheRepublicanPresident of the USA is of the same opinion as Mr Green Governor Desantis declared

in a news article that Blacks benefited from slavery as they were blacksmiths and used this trade skill to advance themselves after emancipationinlaterlife.

Black people were way, wayaheadoftheindentured immigrants in their acquisition of trade skills. This was to change with the PNC coming to power (1964-1992). Nevertheless, we Indians are grateful for African help and services from 1834. But, Mr Green Indians cannot help to have distaste for you and your P N C ( 1 9 6 4 - 1 9 9 2 ) government for the wrong donetoIndianssimilartothe wrongsinflictedbytheslave masters Every rigged election, rioting and violenceandarsonsotypical of the PNC. Some 3000 Indians had to flee the Wismar massacre of 26th May1964wheremanywere killed, hundreds were maimed and injured and manywomenraped.

T h e 1 9 6 0 s P P P governmentdidnot

(Continuedonpage18)

DEAREDITOR

, TheAnthony’sresidence i n m y c h i l d h o o d neighbourhood was located in a long narrow street across theroadfromwhereIlivedin Half Mile, in the town of Linden TheMartinslivedatthe head of that street and all the waytotheendwereresidences of popular people I will never forget The popular Linden tailor, Jamesy, who is doing well in the US plying the same trade, lived at the end of that street. Nalda and her sister, Verone who were members of Rabbi Washington’s House of Israellivedattheendofthat streettoo.Iwasaveryyoung childinthelate70sandearly 80s but I remember things from those periods more vividly than a lot of things in my teenage years and adult life WeplayedintheMartin’s, Papi’s and Anthony’s yards Thereweretwohousesinthe Anthony’s yard; the main big houseclosertothestreetanda verysmallhouseclosertothe main road which I think is called Winifred Gaskin highway The smaller house

Narratives of hate and who are evil StAnn’s Orphanage should not be allowed to fade away

also served as a shop My fathersentmetheretocollecta newspaper Itwasthefirsttime Iopenedanewspaperandtried to view its contents I saw a photo of Linden Forbes SampsonBurnhamandoneof Hamilton Green I never forgottheimagesorthenames andasIgrewup,thehatethat wereattachedtothoseleaders ledmetoobjectivelyresearch thosetwomen/leaders Ididnothavetogodeep into in my research to come to the realisation that I was wasting my time. I realised that the hate and negativity came from the PPP and was passedoffasaccountsoftheir partisan political narratives What was simplistic and dangerous about the PPP’s narrative was that it really didn’t have to do much with politics Itwastherawestand nastiest form of racism and race hate that was meant to psychologically condition African Guyanese to believe that Black leaders were “no goods”,evilpeopleandwere not ever worthy to govern the nation. That realisation causedmetocry Asachild,I

usedtheAnthony’syardasa shortcut on my way to school. Obliquely opposite was the residence of Mrs. Duggan. The windows of thatbighousefacedthemain road. Mrs. Duggan opened her windows every morning andtherewasahugeframed black and white photo of Burnham on the wall. I wouldusuallystopandstare atit.

One morning as I was looking at the photo, a rough looking Black man was accompanying a very neatly and formally dressedwoman She was a schoolteacher I gatheredthathewasprobably “hustling her” and they weren’t a couple The man lookedatmeandsaid,“Heisa wicked man” The teacher hadanincredulouslookonher facewhenshetoldhimnotto “follow” her any farther She lookedatmeandsaid.“Heis the best thing that we have. Never you forget that. No matterwhatyouhear Never forget that!” She walked awayandthemanwalkedin theotherdirection.

IknewexactlywhereIwas

when the death of Burnham wasannouncedontheradio I was on my street standing outside Mr Ellis’s yard looking at his string band visiblefromhisopeneddoor I was barefooted and shirtless

Thedeathannouncementwas accompanied by rejoicing shoutscomingfromhomesin theneighbourhood Peopleran out of their homes on to the streetandstartedtocelebrate I cried The PPP narrative had penetratedtheheartsofBlack people I live to see what the PPPhas done and is doing to Black people in Guyana Our generations can pay a terrible priceforourignorance

Today, I feel a sense of duty when I tell African Guyanese about these factual accounts. And that’s whyIkeepBurnham’sname aliveandwhyIamhappythe PNCwillbehavingGeneral Council and Congress before year end. I will tell you why in a Facebook live today

Sincerelyyours,

NormanBrowne Social and Political Activist

DEAREDITOR, Thelandmark,safehome - St Ann’s Orphanage - has closed its doors after 172 yearsofservice.

Thisisaseriouslossand adeepsenseofregretthatthe noteasydecisionwasarrived at.

TheUrsulineSisterswho administered the Orphanage must be congratulated and commended for a job well doneformorethanacentury

Frompage5 responsiveness. There can be no responsiveness if the peoples‘ representatives are not allowed a hearing or includedindecision-making fora, and the fourth estate is lectured to, rather than listened to, when entertained.

Responsible behaviour

has been treated no differently Responsible behaviour is intended to provide for transparency, in which circumstances decisionsaremadebasedon principles and well established criteria. At the very root of the political system in Guyana, the erosion of responsible behaviour is evident and normalized.

GECOM‘s two top officershavebeenappointed by a majority vote although

andahalf.

While the decision to close was taking shape, one wonders if everything possible was done to keep this institution open and alive?

Aninstitutionofthiskind can’tjustfoldandfadeaway Its purpose is much too valuable.

Itshouldbepreserved.

Yourssincerely, ShamshunMohamed

inbothinstancestheydidnot meet the essential criteria stipulated by the said personnelwhofacilitatedthe majoritydecision.

Thisisbutanexampleof the pervasive erosion of responsiblebehaviour

To what extent can GECOM be relied on to conduct free and fair elections when there is no commitment to democracy at the level of the commissioners, who installed the administrators, as creatures behoove to them, albeit through undemocraticprocesses?

In the circumstance of the conscious side stepping and undermining of the democraticsystem,andthe silencing of citizens who dare to speak out, what are the options at the disposal ofthecitizensforthereturn of, and adherence to, the democraticprinciples?

Yourstruly, VincentAlexander

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FightingforJagdeo

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo has seemingly recruited three sycophants to help him spin his narrative.

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They all get copious amounts of space in the Guyana Chronicle.

These are supposedly bright men with Doctorates, and all other titles behind their names. Every day they are dispatched to counter the numerous criticisms being heaped on the erstwhile former President for his disastrous management of the oil and gas sector

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But amid all their propaganda work, only the lowly-read Guyana Chronicle carries their letters and columns. None of the credible media houses fancies their diatribe. We have said here before that persons having a Doctorate should be made of sterner stuff.

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You can't be a Dr. and being reduced to doing Jagdeo's flunky.

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Asset Integrity

Engineering

( A I E ) , a company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a recent publication unveiled t h e c h a l l e n g e s o f decommissioning in the oil andgasindustry

For those unfamiliar, the process of restoring the ocean's floor when an oil and gas project has come to an e n d i s c a l l e d 'Decommissioning'.

Kaieteur News had r e p o r t e d t h a t decommissioning is a complex and costly process attheendoftheeconomiclife of an individual oil and gas project. It involves the safe plugging and abandoning of oil wells, removal of structures and restoration of thesurroundingareas.

AIE is a leading provider of asset integrity services which improve operational reliability, safety and asset protection whilst at the same time helping to maximise plant performance and mitigate the consta

hallenges and hazards facing heavy industries such as Oil and Gas, Power Generation andMining.

The company stated that it is estimated that more than 70%oftheworld'soilandgas production comes from mature fields and flows through infrastructure that is ageing.

It was explained that as global oil and gas basins becomemoremature,thereis an increasing focus from Government Regulators, Tax Authorities as well as National and International

O i l C o m p a n i e s o n decommissioning of oil and gas facilities along with their associated midstream and downstreamindustries.

AIE underscored that decommissioning is set to be a key issue for the oil and gas i n d u s t r y soon “Decommissioning is the final stage of an asset's

lifecycle, whereby reservoirs are isolated, and their associated infrastructure is removed and disposed of, leaving the production area in an environmentally acceptable condition with minimal safety risks associatedwithit.Itisalong, often costly process, requiring cooperation by the key stakeholders to manage

the various associated technical,operational,social, e c o n o m i c , a n d environmental issues,” the companysaid.

Moreover, it was highlighted that with the increasingglobalmomentum towards decarbonisation, governments are also e x p o s e d t o g r e a t e r decommissioningrisksasthe outlook towards oil and gas a s s e t s h a s c h a n g e d considerably

To this end,AIE said that the increasing pressure on carbon-intensive assets to reduce emissions, coupled with lower anticipated returns and higher capital costs for companies could mean that assets can reach their economic limits significantly earlier than expected.

“This leads to higher chances of accelerated decommissioning of assets, mothballed assets and bankruptcies; there is a p o t e n t i a l r i s k t h a t governments would be s a d d l e d w i t h decommissioning liabilities asaresult,”itwasadded.

A I E l i s t e d s o m e e x a m p l e s o f t h e consequences it has seen involving decommissioning.

team was developed to support a range of related initiatives.

Without proper laws, Govts. can be left to foot massive cleanup bills for oil projects – Another int'l group warns

Importantly, AIE based its research for the p u b l i c a t i o n o n t h e Commonwealth Secretariat guide titled “Oil and Gas Decommissioning Toolkit,” where the Secretariat highlighted key issues of decommissioning and made s u g g e s t i o n s f o r Governments.

The first consequence stated was that inadequate decommissioning liability provision can lead to a 500% default or bankruptcy of involved parties leaving decommissioning liabilities on Governments or other joint-venture partners. It was also stated that poorly managed assets incurring u n n e c e s s a r y decommissioning costs, or e v e n e n t e r i n g i n t o d e c o m m i s s i o n i n g unexpectedly and asset sales values being eroded by presenting unrealistic decommissioning liabilities inthevendordataroom.

The company stated that its engineering services and software focus on aged infrastructure and we have successfully delivered a range of decommissioning projects from advisory support through to full projectmanagementdelivery for onshore and offshore projects.

AIE said it have a unique understandingoftheregional a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l decommissioning landscape. It was also disclosed that the company was recently awarded several strategic decommissioning contracts and noted that a world-class

The guide was published earlier this year and warned its member countries, including Guyana, who is a part of the oil and gas industry of the uncertainty of decommissioning costs, which can result in the price tag to restore the ocean floor, easily moving from USmillionstoUS-billions.

Kaieteur News had r e p o r t e d , t h a t Commonwealth Secretariat Economic Adviser, Naadira Ogeer, cautioned developing countries like that the price t a g a t t a c h e d t o decommissioning could easily wipe out any benefits the country sees from oil project.

Ogeer, who led the development of the toolkit, e x p l a i n e d t h a t , decommissioning is another dimension to the just energy transition.

It goes without saying that companies who have benefitted from these fossil fuels should pay for all clean up and restoration activities. Ogeer stated too, “It would be unreasonable for developing countries with low capacitated regulators and weak legal requirements to shoulder the significant financial, environmental and socialcosts.

This would easily wipe away any benefits seen from aproject.”Assuch,sheadded that the international community must be extremelyvigilantandunited to ensure that the 'polluter

Brothers hid in septic tank after brutalising Unity fisherman

A 35-year-old fisherman was on Monday injured when four cutlasswielding brothers attacked him at UnityVillage,EastCoastDemerara.

Injured is Sushil Nagasar of Coconut Walk Mahaica, East Coast Demerara(ECD).Nagasarreportedthe matter to police on Tuesday, alleging that the four brothers rushed into a Chinese restaurant where he was, all armed with cutlasses and broadsided

himseveraltimesabouthisbody

Hereceivedwoundstohistoesandhands and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was admitted as a patient inastablecondition.Duringasearchfortwo of the suspects, police said that their mother tried to mislead the ranks by informing them thathersonswerenothome.However,ranks found the sons hiding in a septic tank, and immediately arrested them The investigationsareongoing.

JAGDEO CANNOT PROTECT YOU!

If we accept that the primary responsibility of all governments is to ensure public safety, then all the governments of Guyana have failed. And there has been no greater failure, in this regard, than the government of Bharrat Jagdeo.

It was under Jagdeo’s administration that the countryexperienceditsmost frightening crime wave, one which had political and racial undercurrents The crime wave which followed the 2001 prison break is unparalleled in Guyana’s history, and reflects the palpable failure of the Jagdeo administration to providesecurityforcitizens.

In 2006, at the height of Jagdeo’s presidency, more than 200 persons were murdered, mostly by criminal bandits The episodes were terrifying

TheGuyanaIndianHeritage Association (GIHA) has documented some of the atrocities committed between Feb 2002 and Feb 2003. It is a frightening chronology, with almost daily reports of robberies, murders and criminal violence. And this was only foroneyear

According to one report, published in the Guyana Times newspaper, the killings for that single year included that of police detective sergeant, the husbandandwifeofafamily in Annandale, and a pensioner, Haroon Rasheed, who was doused with keroseneandsetalightathis NonPareilhome.

A young school child was killed when her home was riddled with bullets. A passenger in a bus passing along the East Coast Public

Road was permanently disfigured when a channa bomb was tossed in the bus resulting in severe burns. The atrocities that followed in the same and subsequent years are too numerous to recount here. Sitting at the helm of the country at the time was Bharrat Jagdeo.

Under his watch in 2008 there was the slaughter of innocent citizens at

Lusignan and Bartica. In 2008, 11 residents were slaughteredintheirhomesat Lusignan Among the victims were children. One month later twelve persons, including policemen, were slaughtered in Bartica. The crime wave caused the rich to bail out of the country Oneoftherichestfamiliesin Guyanapackedupandwent abroadtoliveinMiami.But the poor people of this country had to sit and face the music Jagdeo’s government could not protect them. He could not even protect one of his own ministers who was killed when the terrorist gang operating out of Buxton invaded his home and killed him,asister,abrotheranda security guard During a recent event hosted to eulogise the former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr RogerLuncheon,Jagdeo said that much of the things during that period would go to the grave with Luncheon. This comment caused some unease with a family member of the former Agricultural Minister Sash Sawh who was a victim of thecrimewave.

But there have been subsequent suggestions by Jagdeo that the government wasbeingmisledbypersons within the security apparatus. No names were

Dem boys seh...

called. It is an astonishing admission from a man who onceheldsupremeexecutive authority. It is shocking to learn that the government was being duped. But even more shocking was that no attemptwasmadebyJagdeo to remove those responsible for misleading the government.

Such actions would not have been condoned by Burnham When the Ministry ofNationalDevelopmentwas destroyed by fire, Burnham removed the head of the Guyana Defense Force for failing to anticipate the arson attack The power of the Commander-in-Chieftomake changes to the army was not checked Jagdeo could have done so He could have also initiated moves, provided for intheConstitution,toremove persons in the police force whomhefeltweremisleading thegovernment

He did not do so. Public sentiments were in his favour The public had been calling for persons in the security sector to be removed. But today it is easy for him to blame operatives in the security sector without holding accountable himself or anyone in the political d i r e c t o r a t e T h e uncontrolled crime wave gave rise to another perversity: the rise of phantom squads While manymembersofthepublic welcomed the relief which came about when criminals began to be eliminated, the emergence of such squads represents a retrograde development Jagdeo was eventually pressured by the United States into holding a CommissionofInquiryasto whether his Minister of Home Affairs, Ronald

Glenn Lall is like a verbal surgeon

Dem boys seh, yuh wouldn’t believe it if yuh didn’t see it with yuh own twoeyes!Onceuponatime, nuff government ministers used to be chomping at the bittotalktothemedia.Dem couldn’t wait to grab that microphone and start chattin’ away like it was a freerumandfood.

But nowadays, oh boy, it’s like tryin’ to get a mongoose to do the moonwalk When dem ministersfinallydoopentheir mouths, you best believe there’s a whole army of cameras and recorders waitin’ to capture every word like it’s the last piece of pepperpot at Christmas

dinner And where does all thatjuicyrecordingendup?

Rightinfrontofnoneother thanthemanhimself,Glenn Lall, de publisher of de Waterfallnewspaper

Glenn Lall has turned into the Ministerial Microscope Every syllable, every pause, and every wink is put under his scrutinizin’gaze It’slikehe’s got a PhD in dissectin’ political talk, and dem ministers are quakin’ in their boots afraid that he might critique what they say Yuh know why they’re keepin’theirtrapsshut?It’s ‘causetheydon’twanttheir words to end up on Glenn Lall’sdissectin’table Deman

Gajraj, had any links to any phantom squad. The COI exonerated Gajraj but the international community signaled their displeasure of having to deal with Gajraj and he was promptly banished as Guyana’s High Commissioner to India

Fifteen years onwards from that terrible period, Guyanese still remain vulnerable to another such

threat. In fifteen years, nothing has been done to assure Guyanese that they are safe in the country. This is why Guyanese must not forget the sordid record of Jagdeo when it comes to securityofcitizens.Hecould not protect them then, why would they feel that he can protectthemnow?

(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.)

is like a surgeon when it comes to what dem politicians saying He does playbackdemwordsandden disassemble them When he’s done pickin’‘em apart, all that’s left are bits and pieces of minced words and shattered arguments Ask de VeePee Hegantellyuh

Dis is why some of our our once-chatty ministers have turned into mumblers, stumblers, and bunglers They’dratherzipit,lockit,and throwaway the key than risk the wrath of Glenn Lall’s verbal scalpel. But dem boys seh that it’s a silence that’s louder than any speech!

TalkHalf!LeffHalf!

AMERICA REBUFFED BY PPP'S ALI

No! Why is it that senior Americans fail to understand that the PPP does not need America anymore? There was a time that America and its swarming presence had its uses. Well, apparently not anymore, and this is regardless of how one looks at the rather crude and rather rude dismissal by His Excellency Ali of US Ambassador Lynch's last gasp appeal that she put on the table for bringing the hostile PPP and PNC together Since Excellency Ali was crude, I will take some liberties with that one also. (Relativetotherudeon his part, that is his call, his calling card, and his call to arms and possibly some ambitions to fame dancing in his, ah, er, let me put it this way,wellusedhead).

I repeat something that I havesaidcountlesstimes:we

must fix our political problems, which means making some genuine effort at approaching our race problems. Thus, it was with relief that I learned of outgoing Ambassador Lynch's last-ditch effort to serve as a bridge between the leaders of the PPP and PNC, so as to get them in the same room. Guyana needs a way out of the political and racial quicksands,andAmbassador Lynch has been a tireless advocate of communication and inclusion. For in just about everything here, there is no one and nothing who is trusted enough to bring our crazed political leaders (pretending at mad dogs) in the same place at the same time to speak on the same mutually helpful issue: politicsandrace.

In this Demerara democracy, only an outsider

would do, and then it has to be a white one to be universally accepted I tender that Excellency Sarah Ann Lynch of America qualifies on every account. Local standing and prestigecheck. Localreachandclout -right again. But Sarah of America was impatiently rebuffed, with a jug of cold water (or something else) directed her way for good measure.

Isn'tthereaplanethathas to be caught? Is there no understanding that utility (America's) here is done? Isn't there any appreciation that the PPPis in charge, and what that means? America needsthePPP ThePPPdoes not need America. In fact, the PPP no longer needs anybody (not even the divine). Ah, hubris! How about the arrogance of power! I like Lord Acton's

(or whoever) sweet little ditty: power corrupts. But best of all, there is this personal translation: get out ofthePPPface!

What a difference a day makes…. For there was a time, that span of nineteen unending months, when Guyanese had the greatest difficultydetectingwherethe bottom of the Ambassador Lynch's shoe ended and where the suction cup lips of some of the same PPP bigshot leaders now kicking up a stink over all and sundry began. If the world that had gathered in Guyana during the wizardries of the PNC's Three Musketeers (Mingo and his band of brethren) had fooled itself that it had seen the best of brownnosing in other places, that came in second when PPP lead vocalists and operators clustered around the same Ambassador Lynch now given the coldest of cold shoulders.

From immaculate Guyanese brownnosers of America's anatomy and the most complete Guyanese bootlickers of the likes of Lynch, Pompeo and some banna with one of those unpronounceable Polish

n a m e s b u t w i t h

hemispheric oversight

PPPbig, bad, dogs are today flexing their muscles. And raising their voices. And kicking people around. The shoe is on the other foot, and itisabikerstuddedjackboot.

Now, the missionary side of me goes into full takeover mode. Comrades in the PPP, please hear me PPP brothers, try giving a listening. Any PPP leader, any believed PPPstrongman, PPP badman, or PPP madman who harbors the thought of their party surviving by being on the wrong side of America, do this right away: get rid of the thought All of them Exxon's Blackwater people are not enough, and so also wouldbeanyChineseagents; orhomegrownPPPterrorists. In other words: don't mess withAmerica. Don't bite the hand that was good to the party's and leadership interests. Don't be a fairweather friend More crudely (and to whom it may concern):don'tgettoobigfor britches,busta!

What a set of sorcerers playing at being standout, standup men and women. Thinking of all this,

something becomes obvious: these are just a bunch of amateurs and bush leaguers (teenagers) who believe that they are now big men, and can throw their weight around, and speak anyhow to anyone, as they please Clearly, something is happeninginsidetheheadsof top PPP men and women. It is nothing wholesome, nor even psychiatrically what is on the level. I have always said that outside of ideology and propaganda (and helping themselves to the people's belongings), the PPP is good for little else. Look how I was proven right, and the manner that it was unequivocally done. Have a pleasant trip, Madame Ambassador Oh, and one more thing, as from one American to another: thanks fortrying.

(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 newspaper and its affiliates.)

Brandnewschoolsinthepipeline forCrane,Nismes

– Pres. Ali

The areas of Crane on the West Coast of Demerara and Nismes on the West Bank of Demerara, will soon see the construction of brand new schools, President Irfaan Ali on Tuesdayannounced.

The President was at the time speaking at the commissioning of a new primary school in Tuschen. In his address to the gathering, the President said that the Ministry of Education has completed a very important document, that is an infrastructure analysis based on population and students, and which identifies what additional infrastructure is needed based on demand of the education system.“Weknownowthatwehavetoinvest in the short term in 10 new facilities across thecountry Butinthisregion,wearegoingto build two additional facilities, hopefully before the end of the year or to be ready for

thenexttermwhichisJanuary,”hesaid.

Speaking briefly about the new schools, the Head of State related that the facility slated for Crane, will be about 30,000 sq ft and would be built to take off 1,000 students. He added that the second facility in Nismes will be constructed to accommodate about 600studentsandthatwouldbeabout1200sq ft.

He stated that one of the reasons behind building such infrastructures is that in these areas, there are new housing communities beingopened,andsothisiscreatingdemands in sector such as education. The Education Ministry recently signed a contract worth $864,705,395 for a new secondary at Tuschen.Alsotheministryhadputouttender seeking the design services for another new schoolforVreed-en-Hoop.

President Irfaan Ali at the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday.

Contractor allegedly kills, burns body of woman he was building house for

Acontractor onTuesday allegedly killed a woman he was building a houseforandburntherbodyatParika, EastBankEssequibo.

Teen gets two years for illegal firearm

Shakel Thomas, an 18year-old man of Laing Avenue, Georgetown, was on Tuesday jailed after he was found guilty by

Magistrate Zamilla AllySeepaul for possession of a firearmwithoutlicense.

Thomas was arrested at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo on Sunday and made his first court appearance on Tuesday, at the Lenora Magistrate's Court, before Magistrate Ally-Seepaul, where the chargewasreadtohim.

He pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to two years imprisonment Kaieteur News had reported

that on Sunday, Thomas was arrested by police for the possession of an illegal firearm.

According to police, at around 03:29 hrs, ranks acting on information, visited Nicola Sports Bar at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), where the suspect was contacted Ranks then conducted a search on him and a suspected firearm with no ammunitionwasfoundinhis pantspocket.

The handyman was told of the allegation, arrested and escorted to Lenora Police Station with the firearm.

Police identified the woman as Shannen Obermuller- Mohamed, 29 of Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE). The charred remains believed to be hers were discovered around 22:10hrsattheconstructionsiteofher home at Parika. Police are awaiting DNAtestingtoverifythattheremains belongstoMohamed.

However, an autopsy was conducted on the burnt body and it revealed that the individual died from a“bluntforcetrauma”tothehead.The pathologist also opined that woman was killed first and then burnt Relatives told police that Mohamed had gone to the construction site around09:00hrsonTuesdaybutfailed to return home. Calls to her cellphone went unanswered too and relatives becameworried.

They began inquiring about her whereabouts but no one knew where she was. At around 22:00hrs that evening family members decided to visit the construction site in search of her. When they arrived they reportedly saw a fire and the contractor Mohamed had hired to build her house suddenly

Dead: Shannen

Obermuller-Mohamed

leaving the scene. The relatives noted thathewalkedtotheendoftheyardand disappearedintothedarkness.

The family members, according to police,thenfilledupsomebucketswith

waterfromanearbystandpipeand extinguished the fire. “After this, they observed what appeared to be a human skull among the debris”, police stated. They immediately notified police and investigators weresenttothescene.

When ranks arrived they removed a burnt skull and torso from among debris. Crime scene investigators also found a sledge hammer and crowbar next to the charredremains.

An investigation was launched immediately and police learnt that the contractor might have murdered Mohammed just moments after she arrived at the Construction site on Tuesday morning.

A neighbour had reportedly seen him burning wood and other materials in the yard around 10:00hrs that day Avideo footage has also surfaced of the contractor adding wood and other debris to a fire at the construction site. The contractorissaidtobewellknown to Mohamed and her relatives and reportedly does “quality work” for them. Police have since arrested the contractor and he is presently being questionedforMohamed'skilling.

Man found dead under bed

A43-year-old mechanic was on Wednesday found dead under his bed at Lot 43 FifthAvenue, Bartica, Region Seven.

The dead man has been identified as Shawn Marshall. Marshall's decomposing remains were reportedly found at 02:30hrs by his brother

Police learnt that the brother came out of a nearby mine and went home. His attention was subsequently drawn to his Marshall's apartment after he was aroused by a strong stench emanating from it.

He decided to follow his stench and entered the apartment only to stumble upon Marshall's decomposing body lying face down under his bed.

No marks of violence were seen on the remains by police but they suspect that he might have died of natural causes. Marshall's father told them that he suffered from epilepsy and was addicted to drugs and alcohol. Marshall was last seen alive on September 3 last.

Police confiscate knife, other weapons during search at Mazaruni Prison

Aknife and improvised weapons were among some of the items confiscated during a search at the Mazaruni Prison by the police early Wednesdaymorning.

In a press release police said that

the search was conducted between 06:30 and 10:30 hrs. The operation was led by ranks of the Bartica Police Station headed by DSP Pitt and Officers from Mazaruni Prison, headed by Supt. Shepherd. During the search, the following items were

confiscated: 20 Razor blades; one DigicelSIMCard,onepairofscissors; 15cigarettelighters; 10improvisedweapons;oneknife; 12 cigarettes; five metal spoons; one helmet;onenailclip;onemirror,anda quantityofwires.

The items confiscated during the search

Apartment where Shawn Marshall was found dead

Jagdeo moves to CCJ over $20M judgment in libel case

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has moved to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)inabidtoappeala$20 million default judgment determined against him in a libel suit brought by Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Annette Ferguson.

Ferguson, a former Minister of Housing, had on January 9, 2020 filed a GY$25 million lawsuit for libel purportedly committed by Jagdeo when he was Opposition Leader. The High Court had issued a default judgment on March 11, 2023

because he had failed to defend himself He is seeking an overturn of the decision by the CCJ. Jagdeo had previously appealed the decision at the lower appeal court. Hewasunsuccessful. In an application filed on his behalf by Attorney Devindra Kissoon, the VP requested that the CCJ determine his case. “I am entitled to leave to appeal to theCourtofAppealandremit this matter to the Court of Appeal for a hearing of the intended appeal, or alternatively treat this application as the hearing of

the appeal itself and vacate the default judgment rendered,”hesaid.

Justice Sandra Kurtzious' had awarded GY$20 million toFerguson. Assuch,Jagdeo is also requesting that the CCJ suspends Justice Kurtzious' award of damages and costs until they hear and determinehisappeal.TheVP said he believes that the learnedjudgesoftheCourtof Appeal fell into error when they found it had no jurisdiction to adjudicate on anappealfromadividedFull Court, they found that a dividedFullCourtdecisionis

Woman dies after falling ill on North West ferry

The MV MA Lisha was recently commissioned

...another treated for asthma, said to have recovered

One woman is dead and another is said to have been treated for an attack of asthmaafterbothofthemfell ill on the government-owned MVMAMalishatherecently commissioned ferry that plies the GeorgetownMabarumaroute.

Initial reports suggested that the woman had died on the vessel, but a release from the Ministry of PublicWorks clarified that both women were taken off the vessel by the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard before one died andtheotherwastreated.

In a statement the Ministry of Public Works on behalf of the Transport and Harbours Department expressedcondolencestothe family of the 53-year-old woman who was found motionless while in transit to G e o r g e t o w n f r o m

Mabaruma on the MV MA Malisha, at approximately 06:15hrs Wednesday The ministry said out of respect for the family the passenger will not be identified at this time.

Accordingtotheministry after being observed by crew

members sitting motionless inherseat,thecrewmembers checked for a pulse, but could not find any and the captain then proceeded to administer CPR to revive the passenger She reportedly subsequently regained consciousness and was assistedbythecrewtoreston amattress.

The passenger was then continuously monitored and after being observed impassively again, the captain informed the l i g h t h o u s e a n d t h e managementofT&HDofthe situation on board, and the T&HD management then contacted the Coast Guard for assistance, the release stated.

The Coast Guard immediately dispatched one of its Metal Shark vessels to the M.V. MA Lisha, which was one mile west of the sea buoy, off the Essequibo Coast The Coast Guard vessel arrived at 08:40hrs where the female was taken offMVMALisha.

Meanwhile, earlier, in a separate incident, the ministry said the crew of the M.V MA Lisha assisted an

not appealable since it was n o t a d e c i s i o n , o r alternatively they refused to interferewiththeFullCourt's refusal to recall its order and remit the matter for a fresh hearingbeforethreejudges.

“Not only do I have a real prospect of success given the Court of Appeal obvious errors of law, but this appeal concerns a point of law of general public importance, there being an egregious error of law the Court of A p p e a l ' s e r r o n e o u s determination that it has no jurisdiction to hear an appeal from a divided Full Court, whichifallowedtoremainon the record, will foreclose litigants from having a right to appeal the legal effect of a divided Full Court decision,” hesaidinhisapplication.

More importantly, theVP believes that there has been a substantial miscarriage of justice.“Ihavebeendeprived of an opportunity to appeal the propriety of the Default Judgment issued against me, I being left without a remedy and no further appellate recourse. A

contends inter alia that the threatofimminentlyhavinga money judgment entered against him but more

importantly, having indelibly ontherecordafindingthathe defamed the respondent, which is will have a damaging and long-lasting impact on my political career and in the eye of the public. “If the Court does not grant the Orders sought… I would be deprived of the ability to defend the Claim on its merits and my constitutional right to appeal, and the Court would be sanctioning the draconian imposition of a default judgment despite the overriding objective and the real prospect of success on mypart,”Jagdeoprofferedin theapplication.

18-year-old,whowashaving anasthmaattack.At22:40hrs (Tuesday),theteenwhoisan asthmaticcasewashavingan asthma attack but did not have any medication in her possession.

The crew was able to render assistance by providing her with an inhaler that was kept on board, and by giving her oxygen with a nebulizer The teen regained good health around 01:30hrs onWednesday

The teen was also taken offtheM.V MALishabythe Coast Guard for further medical check-ups and clearance. “The Ministry wishes to make clear that there were never two deaths ontheM.V. MA Lisha, as well as there was no malfunctioned air condition unit. The Ministry is also urging personstodesistfromrumormongering and spreading inaccuracies.

The Ministry would like to thank the Guyana Coast Guard for its quick response today, and for its continued support offered to our maritime agencies,” the releaseconcluded.

Opposition MP, Annette Ferguson

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Despite progress women still face challenges to fiancé programmes, businesses

...new IDB-UN women report

C A R T A G E N A , Colombia – While public development banks (PDBs) today provide a variety of programmes to improve credit access for women, investments that go beyond financial capital are needed to address the unique needs of women and their businesses and drive a more inclusive financial sector, according to a new global survey conducted by the I n t e r - A m e r i c a n Development Bank (IDB) andUNWomen.

T h e n e w r e p o r t , "Financing Programs for Wo m e n ' s F i n a n c i a l Inclusion and Access to Finance for Women MSMEs: Results from a S u r v e y o f P u b l i c Development Banks," presentedduringtheFinance in Common Summit (FiCS) from September 4-6 in Cartagena,Colombia,shows progress, opportunities and challenges in offering financing programs for womenandtheirbusinesses.

The survey, completed by 54 PDBs, indicates the banks have come a long way in offering programs for women-owned Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that focus on productive financing, business development, green and climate financing, and financial education and literacy

A full 91% of surveyed PDBs also include products designed for women as part of their women MSME programs, predominantly offering working capital and investment loans with lower interest rates and nonfinancialsupport.

The data shows that PDBs,withtheleadershipof multilateral development banks,areaddressinggender biases, and that multilateral development banks are also driving the design of datadriven, gender-responsive products, as well as new instruments like gender bonds. PDBs with a national m a n d a t e n a t i o n a l development banks --are predominantly offering preferential features in products for women MSMEs, including lower interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and unsecured loans, whereas other PDBs, including subnational development

banks, resort to cashflow lendingmethods.

However,thesurveyalso concludes that there is still progress that needs to be made to expand access to finance for women and their businesses, as well as improving women's financialinclusion.

The report here points to t h e l a c k o f s e xdisaggregated data and limited understanding of financial needs of women

MSMEs as the main challenges.

Likewise, the survey highlights that the lack of collateral and limited credit history records present another barrier for broadening financing programsforwomen.

At the same time, a low percentage of surveyed institutions declare accepting nontraditional collateral and using alternative credit scoring mechanisms, suggesting an opportunity for PDBs to explore further innovations that mitigate collateralrelated barriers for womenownedMSMEs.

"PDBs play a key role in enhancing access to credit for MSMES and act as change catalysts for achieving a more inclusive financialsector

The report's findings indicate that the sector is investing in programs to improve credit access for women, but there is still significant opportunity to expand these types of solutions both in terms of their reach and the types of programs offered for this important segment of our countries' economies,"

stated Gabriela Andrade, Lead Specialist of the Connectivity, Markets, and FinanceDivisionattheIDB.

"The IDB is committed to continuing its support for PDBs in Latin America and the Caribbean in this important agenda, which includes financing and structuring programs, providing technical assistance, as well as fostering knowledge generation,"sheadded.

Adopting appropriate definitions of what constitutesawomenMSME, strengthening institutional capacity and enhancing monitoring and evaluation practices, as well as

knowledge-sharing among PDBs, are some of the recommendations presented in the report to deepen financial inclusion of womenandtheirbusinesses.

“

To truly make a difference, we call for investments that go beyond financial capital. Capacity building, mentorship, and access to networks are essential components that can propel women-owned b u s i n e s s e s t o w a r d sustainablegrowth.

This also means designing financial products and programs that address the unique needs of women and acknowledge their diverse roles,” said Dr Jemimah Njuki, Chief, Economic Empowerment at UN Women.Moreover, the impact should be measured not solely in terms of economicoutcomes,butalso in terms of social and environmental benefits. We e n c o u r a g e p u b l i c development banks to adopt a long-term perspective, by aligning their strategies with the broader objectives of gender equality and sustainable development,” sheadded.

Women-owned or led businesses comprise 23% of MSMEs globally and face a staggering financing gap of $1.5trillion,accordingtothe SME Finance Forum Similarly, according to the 2021 Global Findex, 27.7% of women over 15 years old borrowed money from a financial institution, compared to 30.6% of men, with Latin America and the Caribbean showing a larger gender gap as these proportions reach 24% of women and 35% of men in theregion.

More than two-thirds of surveyed PDBs view positive social impact and growing market potential as opportunities for expanding programs for women-owned MSMEs PDBs also consider that financial education is fundamental to enhancing women's financialinclusion.

T h e s u r v e y w a s developed as part of the w o r k o f t h e F i C S Coalition on Gender Equality and Women's E m p o w e r m e n t i n Development Banks, cochaired by the IDB and UN Women in 2023

WANTED VACANCY

Porters needed at Hamson's General Store, 116 Regent & Bourda. Call: 226-3748, 6372061, 619-9161.

One Cook and two Kitchen Assistants needed. Call 6031278

1 Concrete Pump truck Driver /Operator and 6 Mixer Driver. Contact: 650-0402/ 665-3880.

1 male to work on chicken farm in the Interior. Must have knowledge & experience of chicken rearing. Call: 680-2702.

Cook needed to work in Campbellville. Must know to cook various meals, salary $6000. Call: 621-5140.

Experienced Weeders & Canal Cleaners to work on the East Bank. Call: 665-0677.

One female Domestic needed. 25-45 years old residing WCD Or WBD. Call: 647-6075.

One male Office Assistant needed. 25-40 year old, must have CXC Maths and English. Call: 623-8414.

Farm Workers for Hauraruni & Hog Island and Domestic to clean, wash & cook in Eccles. Call: 674-8723.

Domestic (mature and honest) and Forklift Operator needed. Call: 623-6383.

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

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

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

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

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office.Must have grade 1or 2 Maths and English. Email: techserigy@yahoo.com or Call: 615-9132.

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

One male Cleaner needed for Eccles area. Call: 615-9132.

Two experienced Cooks/ Chefs needed to work on the WBD. Must have a valid food handler's license. Call: 679-2612/ 689-5100.

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.

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

One Nail Technician and Hair Dresser needed. Call: 693-1817.

Soup House is looking for Kitchen Assistant in Town, 11am-4am. Call: 663-9560.

Jagdeo hasn’t brought anything to fruition

From page 04 he can, or he would. This was pulled out of the hat just like the 30,000 BPD.

Now we are hearing of another one, over 50,000 BPD with the DR government giving them 51%.

I am sure it would not be the government of the DR so it would be some private sector companies. There is a big question mark here. We are not told where the 49% is coming from. They said not the gov. So, I guess, like the Berbice Bridge and the Marriot it would be “SUlected” investors. I am glad Bharat now realizes, after emphatically first saying he wants 30,000 bpd and would export the rest and says, “we cannot continue to sell our oil and import crude products so we have to address our minds to a refinery and have guaranteed feedstock for it, so all of that is catered for in this very comprehensive Bill”, which is waiting for the President’s signature.

Now the final confusion of a VP who seems not to know

what he is doing. The recently passed bill according to the Minister of Natural Resources ensures that the oil producers sell oil locally if profit oil is inadequate.

I assume this anticipates that we would have refining capacity greater than profit oil which would according to Exxon would be over 160 BPD by 2027.

I want to believe by then cost oil would be less than 75% so we expect more profit oil. Unless this is so there is no need for Exxon to release oil to Guyana.

I want to remind readers that this VP Bharat Jagdeo acted to block a 300,000 million GYD modern cargo facility at CJIA. In fact, I got into trouble with him, when with my involvement, the project was nearing fruition. He told me to stop the project and he transferred me out of OP.It did not matter to him that this was so beneficial to farmers and would have been transformational as this facility would have had available aircraft and would work in conjunction with a modern facility at JFK with the capacity to fly produce to other countries.

Could someone inform me of any major project that Bharat brought to fruition?

We have the white elephant at Skeldon, a sugar factory.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

Nissan Pathfinder in good condition. Call: 644-6551, 661-3608.

It is reported that he gave this contract to a Chinese firm instead of an Indian one which knows about sugar. Then there is the Amelia Hydro. Then there is the internet cable from Brazil where billions of dollars that that came from the European Union to help rehabilitate sugar were literally thrown

away. It seems now that his actions would make a refinery for Guyana a pipe dream as the VP does not want to deal with the interest the Guyanese private sector of Guyana has re an oil refinery.

I sincerely hope that the President of this country instead of waiting for proposals from other countries make a conscious effort to meet with local persons who are interested in setting up a refinery. If he does not do that his obtaining 51% in 2025 would become elusive. I know many Berbicians would be very upset with him.

The President would be held accountable if an oil refinery does not materialize. Especially Berbicians would not forgive him.

I recall when Government was privatizing the National Cooperative Bank, a proposal was put forward to sell the bank in blocks of shares so the local private sector could buy in as it was difficult for one of them to purchase the entire bank. Instead, he sold it all to a foreign company, to Republic Bank, a T&T company.

Re Marriot, correct me if I am wrong but usually bids state that the government does not have to accept the highest bid. So why not sell it to a Guyanese investor who bid a couple of million less. It was stupid to sell in the first place.

It would be interesting to find out whose money is really buying the Marriot.

It would be wise for His excellency to jettison his VP. There is an opinion that Bharat caused the PPP to lose power in 2015.

Many could not stand the deep-rooted corruption. Even Presidential candidate Donald Ramotar said the corruption was deep rooted and he vowed to pull it out. This Government has a slim majority of one.

2025 would not be a piece of cake especially since the oil money is not trickling down.

Instead, it is spent on overpriced necessary infrastructure and overpriced infrastructure works that are not the priority of the Guyanese people.

I have no idea if he consulted the Berbicians if they want a stadium. I as a Berbician and others are of the view that the said monies should be spent to upgrade all community centers where our best cricketers were produced.

We the Guyanese knows what takes place when we have these big contracts. We will never forget Su. Guyanese, especially Berbicians, would not forgive this government for placing stumbling blocks to the Guyanese private sector re: construction of an oil refinery.

The ball is in Bharat’s and the President’s court.

The farmers should remember that the VP suffered them a lot by blocking the Modern Cargo Facility at CJIA.

The oil refinery project, in addition to providing much needed fertilizer, cheap energy and asphalt etc. would create thousands of jobs directly and indirectly including members of our diaspora.

Rajendra Bisessar BSc in Sociology, LLB

FOR SALE

One blast freezer and 2 holding rooms for sale. All in working condition. Call: 6820823/ 687-5814.

One Cashier needed. Must have English & Maths and previous experience. Apply at mikeswholesaledepot @yahoo.com or @ their location.

Soup House is looking for professional Soup Cook. 4 hours per day and weekly pay. Call: 663-9560.

Babysitter and Cleaner needed at Windsor Estate. Call 696-9854, 223-7165.

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.

For low cost repairs for AC units, refridgerators, freezers, gas stoves, washing machine, dryers, etc. Call: 6294946, 225-4822.

Burkey's House Blessings! Need someone to be a Caretaker of your house in your absence? Call: 663-4654.

EAB conflict of interest case to be refiled...

From page 3 appeals against the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) exemption of the government’s 300 megawatt (MW) Power Plant for the Gas to Shore Project from an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The 300 MW combined cycle power plant will be financed through a loan the government is seeking from the United States Export Import (EXIM) Bank that Guyanese will have to repay. It is a component of the Gasto-Energy (GTE) project geared towards reducing the cost of electricity by 50 percent.

spectively.

The EAB is comprised of another government employee, Dr. Garvin Cummings, making it a body comprised entirely of government employees.

The EAB held a public hearing on appeals against the EPA’s waiver of an EIA for the power plant project on March 22, 2023, amidst public outcry that Dr. Sharma and Mr. Mckenzie were in conflict of interest and should recuse themselves.

On May 10, 2023, the EAB issued its decision upholding the EPA’s waiver of an EIA.

and Mr. McKenzie.

The applicant had asked for declarations that Sharma and McKenzie’s specific duties as government employees are in direct and indirect conflict with their duties on the EAB and that they illegally took part in the deliberation and decision of the Board regarding the waiver of an EIA for the power plant.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

One CRV Honda, $3.3M negotiable and 1 Toyota Allion, $3.350 M, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mile-

One Female Bartender to work at Iteballi Landing. Call: 684-3039 for details

Vacancy for Domestic/ Maid for morning and afternoon shifts. Call: 592-6376700.

2 bedroom apartment at 207 Middle Road, La Penitence. Call: 639-2507.

On February 10, 2023, the government appointed Sharma, who is Head of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and a Director of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), and McKenzie, who is Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources to serve as Chairman and member of the EAB, re-

The court document filed by Radzik, provided evidence of what appears to be Sharma and McKenzie’s blatant conflicts of interest, which undermine the integrity of the EAB and principles of the rule of law and good governance.

Radzik had submitted 14 exhibits containing evidence of alleged conflicts of interest and actions she believes were illegally taken by Dr. Sharma

Furthermore, Radzik had asked the High Court to order that all deliberations, hearings, submissions, and decisions taken by members of the Board in the matter of the EPA’s decision to waive an EIA for the 300 MW Natural Gas Power Plant Project are unlawful, null and void, and of no legal effect, pursuant to Section 8 of the Third Schedule to the Environmental Protection Act Cap. 20:05, and any further or other orders as the Court may deem just.

Sharma and McKenzie were both listed as respondents in the matter.

age . Contact: 649-0956.

$41M to repair Karaburi Health Centre

The Karaburi Health Centre in the Moruca district,RegionOneissetto undergosome$41millionin rehabilitationworks.

This is according to the recentopeningoftendersfor the Ministry of Local Government and Regional

Development project.At the reading of bids, it was d

contractors are after the contract and they are:Aruca Investment,VijayPersaud& Sons Contracting Services, N&A Construction, SEE Solutions, FS Construction, a

Below are the companies and their bids: MinistryofLocalGovernmentandRegionalDevelopment CompletionofMatthew’sRidgeHospital,RegionOne.

Services.

Just recently at the p a s s a g e o f t h e supplementarybudget,some $1 billion was approved for the health sector which would see some 152 health f a c i l i t i e s b e i n g rehabilitated Of the 153 facilities, Health Minister,

Ukraine war:

Dr Frank Anthony said work will be done on eight facilities in Region One, 30 in Region Two, 16 in RegionThree, 24 in Region Four, 19 in Region Five, 13 in Region Six, 11 in Region Seven,nineinRegionEight, sixinRegionNine,and17in Region10.

DemeraraHarbourBridgeCorporation (DHBC)SupplyanddeliveryofHydro BlastequipmentfortheDHBC.

17 killed during attack on market in ‘peaceful cityʼ

RehabilitationofKaraburiHealthCentreMoruca.

MinistryofLegalAffairs

RenovationtowashroomsattheMinistry

(BBC NEWS) President

Zelensky has condemned a “deliberate” attack on Ukraine’s “peacefulcity”of Kostyantynivka.

At least 17 people, including a child, were killed in the blast, which tookplaceonabusymarket street in the middle of the day-ararity

Kostyantynivka, in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region,isnearthefrontline. Videosonsocialmediashow a bright orange explosion at the far end of a street where people were out shopping. Russiaisyettocommenton theattack.

record war crimes committed by the Russian Federation,” a statement added.

Officials in Russia have n o t y e t c l a i m e d responsibility for the attack. They have previously denied targeting citizens as part of their offensive Kostyantynivkasitscloseto the battlefield and has been hitonvariousoccasionsthis yearasaresult:

On 2 April: Six civilians were killed, with missiles and rockets damaging 16 apartment blocks and a nursery school

MinistryofPublicWorks

Landandwatertransport–Procurementof fourteen4x4pickupsandonetwelvetofifteenseaterbus.

GuyanaDefenceForce

RehabilitationofLectureHall,CJCMS.

MinistryofNaturalResources ConsultancyservicesforIndependentAdministrator toprepareGuyana’s5thEITIReportfortheFiscalYear –CommencementofProcurementActivities.

Africans were way ahead in skills...

F r o m p a g e 5 compensate Indians for this horror

Mr Green it’s never too late to apologize to Indians fortheharmofthePNCera. For example, the Indian Immigration Fund was seized by the PNC and one cultural center was built in Georgetown, which benefits people more so in the city rather than the rural areas whereIndianspredominate.

AnotherpointMr Green it’s not Indians who are always comparing slavery

andindenturedships.Itisthe African who is doing so to establish a superiority of their suffering. It’s you who are trying to show that the indentured experience is not equal to that of the African.

OnlyMr EusiKwayanahas advocated that both the Indian and the African “sufferedequally!”

Why then is it so wrong that Indians are seeking reparations for the ordeal they suffered? Good luck

Mr Green if you get reparationstoo.

Atthesametime,Ithink the best reparation for IndiansandAfricansisforus to pursue our separate destinies. Federalism is an excellentwayfortheAfrican to separately pursue his worth to unhindered development.

Mr Green must admit that Blacks were far advanced in European education in various skills for 80 plus years yet fell behindIndianstodayandthe cause is Mr Green’s PNC welfare government. (1964-

1992). ThePNCstockedthe public service with its supportersandtheylosttheir advantageandsuperiorityin skills that they had over Indians.

Inconclusion,Mr Green let the Africans / Indians pursue their own path for reparations. Neither Indians nor Portuguese nor the Chinese people historically did anything wrong to the African.

Respectfully

VassanRamracha [Teacher]

Volodymyr Zelensky, who has blamed Moscow, said those killed were “people who did nothing wrong” - and warned the death toll could increase. DealingwithRussia,hesaid, meantturningablindeyeto the audacityof evil.At least 32 people are thought to be injured.Amarket,pharmacy andshopsareallreportedto have been hit, resulting in a now-containedfire.

Ukraine’s Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said just after 18:00 local time (16:00 BST) that the search and rescue operation hadbeencompleted.

Footage and images circulating online appeared to show the moment of the explosion and its graphic aftermath.

It was one of the worst attacks on Ukrainian civilians since the spring, and took place in a busy street as people were flockingtomarketstallsand caféterraces.

MrZelenskydescribedit as“utterinhumanity”,while hiswifeOlenaZelenskasaid itshowed“horrificcruelty”. An investigation into the attack has been launched by Ukraine’s prosecutorgeneral, whose office said it was in pursuit of “criminal proceedings for violation of the laws and customs of war” “Prosecutors are taking all possible and appropriate measures to

· On 13 May: Two people - including a 15year-old old girl - were killed in an attack using Smerch rockets that hit high-rise buildings,houses, a petrol station, a pharmacy andshops

· On 24 July: Two children were killed in an attack, which Ukraine said Russian officials used cluster munitions to carryout

It is also about 17 miles (27km) from the city of Bakhmut - in the Donetsk region as well - where fighting is known to have beenintenseforsometime.

The city of Donetsk has been controlled by Russia’s proxy authorities since 2014, who have repeatedly accused Ukrainian forces of targeting it since the war with Russia began last February

T h e a t t a c k o n Wednesdaycoincidedwitha visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Ukraine, where he met Foreign Affairs Minister DmytroKuleba.Inthehours before he arrived, sirens wailed across the country and Kyiv’s air defence s y s t e m w a s b u s y intercepting missiles aimed at the capital. Mr Blinken used the trip - his fourth to the Ukrainian capital in 18 months - to pledge more support for Ukraine’s militaryandeconomy

Healthcare workers undergoing work training on new

diabetes

guidelines

GGI-funded wellness project launched to reduce chronic conditions in 150 people

The Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI)-funded Enhancing Community Wellness Project, which aims to reduce the prevalence of chronic health c o n d i t i o n s i n 1 5 0 participants was officially launched on August 30 at 3t EnerMech, Lusignan,East CoastDemerara(ECD).

This project is being led by the Roraima Learning Trust (RLT) and aims to reduce the prevalence of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and h y p e r t e n s i o n b y encouraging participants to adoptandadheretohealthier lifestyles, a press release organisationsaid.

The project encourages participants to consume healthy foods, lead an active lifestyle and monitor their p h y s i c a l h e a l t h

Socioeconomic Manager at ExxonMobil Guyana, Ms. Susan Scott stated, “We believe that healthy citizens

are the greatest asset any country can have and that is why we were keen on supporting this project with the Roraima Learning Trust which aims to encourage citizens to eat well, move wellandfeelwell.”

The objectives of the project include providing relevant dietary and lifestyle information through convenient and accessible platforms and also utilising t h e N e i g h b o u r h o o d

Democratic Councils (NDCs) and healthcare networks.

Project Manager for RoraimaLearningTrust,Mr StephenPattersonstatedthat they have already seen positive results from this project and he encouraged all the participants to continuetouse andsharethe information. He noted, “The whole idea is to use the information that we're sharing, that they can use it for their own benefit, the

benefit of their family, communities and by extension, the country as a whole”.

Director of the RLT, Mr Kojo Parris highlighted that peer-based support is a crucial aspect in the executionoftheproject.“An integral part of how this projectisstructuredissothat peopleoperateingroupsand so they can help each other, they can encourage each other,”hestated.

The GGI is a US$100 million, 10-year investment made by the Stabroek Block partners ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited. It is geared towards development of the local workforce, building human capacity, advancing education and improving healthcare, all in an effort to promote sustainable economic diversification for agrowingGuyana.

To enhance the analysis and care of diabetic patients, the Ministry of Health in partnershipwithMountSinai on Wednesday launched a train-the-trainer workshop for healthcare professionals countrywide, at the Pegasus HotelinGeorgetown.

The two-day exercise, among other things, focuses on introducing new standards of diabetes guidelines for primary healthcare. Speaking during the ceremony, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony emphasised the critical importance of the new guidelines for enhancing the careofdiabeticpatients.

“Wearelookingatwhat are the standards we need to put in place. One of the things that you would notice in these new guidelines is shifting from just using the glucometres to using the glycated hemoglobin, as one of the standards,” the minister explained.

He said consultations with the medical team from Mount Sinai have been ongoing for quite a while, noting that it is important for the guidelines to be adhered

to nationwide The new measures will help health workers know what to use as first-line treatment for patients and what to do when there is inappropriate glucosecontrol,amongother practices Guidelines formulated with the help of Mount Sinai have allowed Guyana to access experts in thehealthfieldinpast.

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. Narine Singh stated that it was time for some of the guidelines to be changed and new ones to be adapted.

“This guideline…is an evidence-based guideline, taking into consideration the c h a n g e o f t h e n e w technologies that are being made available, new medications, and clinical trials that have been done overtheyears,”hesaid.

Dr Singh believes that thenewmeasureswillhavea positive impact on Guyana

and the management of diabetes. He said it will improve the lifestyle and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the chronic illness. Also, the Consultant from the Mount Sinai health team, Dr David Heller said Guyanese health workers will learn the key methods of how to implement the guidelines in the simplest way “The goal really is to help you to feel likeyouknowwhatyouneed to know, not just about the guidelines but about how to teach them,” the consultant stated.

After the training concludes, the regions' healthpersonnelarerequired to return to their respective districts and conduct workshops to accurately disseminate the new strategies. Each region also received machines to help in the advancement of these guidelines.(DPI)

From Left to Right: Project Manager of the Enhancing Community Wellness Project Stephen Patterson, Socio-Economic Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana, Susan Scott and Director of the Roraima Learning Trust, Kojo Parris T

Mount Sinai Consultant, Dr. David Heller

Health workers at the launch of the training programme

Separate fires destroy spare parts bond, house

Firemen were unable to save the house at Lake Mainstay

Two separate fires on Wednesdaydestroyedaspare parts bond on the East Coast Demerara and a house at Lake Mainstay, Essequibo Coast.

In a press release the GuyanaFireServicereported that the first fire occurred at approximately12:1100hrson Wednesday The Fire Service saiditreceivedacallandwas alerted to a fire at White Boy's Auto Spares & Accessories, located at Lots 446-447 Annandale, East CoastDemerara.

Water tenders from the Melanie, Campbellville, and Alberttown fire stations were immediately dispatched to the scene The structure

involved was a two-storey concrete building owned by 42-year-old Mohammed Alli and occupied as a bond.As a result of the fire, the building and its contents were destroyed.

The purported cause of the fire was unknown at that time, and fire prevention staffers are conducting investigations, the release added. Three jets working from water tenders #105, #116 and water carrier #16 were used to extinguish the fire.

In another incident, police said a house at Lake Mainstay village, Essequibo Coast, was destroyed by a fire of unknown origin at

around 09:50hrs Wednesday leaving a couple and their fivechildrenhomeless.

The dwelling house was owned/occupied by Sherwin DeYoungandhiswife,Anice De Young, and their five children,agesten,eight,five, threeandone-year-old.

According to the police the house was a one-storey wooden building measuring twentyfeetinlengthand(15) feet in width. At the time of the fire, Mr DeYoung was at work, and two (2) of his children were at school

According to Mrs DeYoung, a housewife, she was doing some work at the back of the yard while three (3) of her children were in the dining

area when one of her daughters ran out and shouted:"Mom,smokeinthe house".

Upon checking, the woman said she noticed the firehadalreadycaughtonthe housefromthenorthernside. She immediately picked up

herthreechildrenandran.An alarm was raised, and villagers ran to her rescue. TheGuyanaFireServicewas summoned, but by the time thefirewasextinguished,the building was completely destroyed, as were all household appliances and

belongings. Police Regional Commander, Superintendent K Shivbaran and other Police ranks visited the fire scenesubsequently The building was built by 'Food for the Poor' approximately thirteen years ago.

The gutted spare parts bond at Annandale, East Coast Demerara

Police presents cricket and other sports gear to Belle Vue Cricket Club...

Bats, balls, pads and helmets included

The Guyana Police Force continues on their community relation programmes across the country as they use various means to help enhance relationship between the police and the various communities.

The latest act of police community blending was conducted at Region 3 West Demerara Essequibo Islands.

Led by Commander Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram, and other senior and junior officers including Woman Assistant Superintendent D. Handy, Inspector Chunia, the police in collaboration with other

stake holder of the Belle Vue, West Bank Demerara, area mobilized and held a meeting with members of the cricket club in the area. Following the engagement the police distributed a number of sports gear to members of the club. The gear included cricket bats, balls, pads and helmets among other equipment.

The Police team also donated ten sacks of cement and six lengths of steel rods to the club to help them kick start rehabilitation works at the venue.

The police plans to make it a regular exercise in Belle Vue and other communities.

Thursday September 07, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

Difficulty reaching others could plague you today, Aries. emails might not go through or you could be stuck in endless telephone tag. You may want to stop trying, but don't give up.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Upsets among family members in the home could drive you to escape it all and throw yourself into your work, particularly creative projects of some kind.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Don't expect much luck with computers today, Gemini, particularly when it comes to writing or communicating with others.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

Upsetting news about money may come your way today, Cancer. This could involve your personal finances or economic factors in general that indirectly affect your finances.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

A strong desire for new romance, whether with a new or current partner, could prove overwhelming today, Leo. You might be tempted to do whatever it takes to attain it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

omeone you're very fond of could be in a difficult mood today. Don't let your sensitivity get the better of you, Virgo. Don't take offense at what this person may say in frustration.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

An unexpected meeting with a friend could leave you sensing some strong emotions that your friend is experiencing. These could be unsettling, Libra, so be prepared.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

A sudden desire for independence from the confines of a job, stagnant home life, or relationship that isn't working could seem irresistible right now, Scorpio. You might have some outrageous ideas for changing jobs.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

A warm, loving letter, phone call, or email could come today from someone dear who lives far away. This should be delightful, Sagittarius.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

Someone could approach you today offering an opportunity to increase your income, which may seem too good to be true. It might be all they say, Capricorn.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Whatever your situation, Aquarius, today you could encounter someone exciting who stirs a powerful romantic attraction within you. This can be delightful.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Annoying situations that arise today could have you feeling stressed, Pisces. A sudden desire to escape might enter your mind. Take care not to work out your frustrations by overindulging in food or drink.

The players were grateful for the donation and thanked the team for their act of kindness and generosity. They pledged to care the gear and make the best use of the items received.

(Samuel Whyte)

National Sterling Products’ Outdoor...

From page 23 Marketing Manager Mr. Dellon Lynch and the Management of Sterling Products. She went on to commend the Chairman of the Board of Governors of Queen’s College, Mr. Marcel Gaskin for use of the facility. Mrs. PersaudMcKinnon remarked on the ideal location of the playfield and gave honourable mention of Ms. Rhonda Ogle and Mr. Nardeo Persaud in ensuring access to the ground was an ease.

The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana wishes to thank our sponsors, our Competitions Committee and Judges Committee, Media and the Affiliate Clubs’ participation for another successful archery competition.

Final Events by Division and Category:

The Guyana Police Force presents sports gear and other materials to the Belle Vue sports team.

Record-setting Djokovic and Gauff steam into US Open semi-finals

AFP - Novak Djokovic charged into a record 47th Grand Slam semi-final on a steamy Tuesday at the US Openwithastraight-setswin over Taylor Fritz, while home favourite Coco Gauff stayed on track for her first majortitle.

Djokovic shrugged off ninth seed Fritz 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 to extend his dominance of American players in New York and takeanotherstepcloserto a record-extending 24th men’sGrandSlamtitle

The 36-year-old Serbian star will appear inhis13thUSOpensemifinal, eclipsing the mark he shared with longtime nemesis Roger Federer for most appearances in the last four of a Grand Slam

Djokovic awaits the up-and-coming Ben Shelton, who took down 10th seed and 2022 semi-finalist Frances

Tiafoe in an all-American affair in Tuesday’s night session at Arthur Ashe Stadium

“I’ve been playing on this court for many years, so many epic matches and I cannot

wait for another one in a few days’ time,” said Djokovic, a three-time USOpenchampion

Djokovic defeated Fritz for the eighth time in a row, weathering stifling conditions as the temperature topped 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 Celsius) and humidity roseabove55%

“It was very humid conditions

Difficult to play but that is why we train and try to get ourselves in the bestconditionstodeliver Not easy but you have to fight,”saidDjokovic Fritz had lost serve just once across four three-set wins in reaching his first US Open quarterfinal, but the 25-year-old was broken three straight timestostartthematch Djokovic resisted four break points at 2-1 in the second set and hauled himself over the line after a rollercoaster final few games in the third set, maintaining his quest for a triumphant return to world number one next week

The unseeded Shelton unleashed 50 winners, using

his booming service and blistering forehand to devastating effect to beat Tiafoe6-2,3-6,7-6(9/7),62.

Shelton,whoreachedthe quarter-finals on his Australian Open debut in January,isthroughtothelast four of a major for the first time.

He becomes the youngest American men’s semi-finalist in New York since1992.

Shelton, 20, saved a setpointashewonacrucial third-settie-breakandpulled awayinthefourthtosettlea historic first Grand Slam quarter-finalintheOpenera

featuring two AfricanAmericanmen.

“It doesn’t get much better than that,” world number 47 Shelton said of a first-time meeting with Djokovic scheduled for Friday

“I feel like I left it all out here tonight. It was an emotionalbattle.”

“End of thatthirdsetis when I really had to dig deep,”saidShelton.

“I think that was the key for me tonight. Just being tough and being relentless, and knowing that I could go the distance physically no matter how badithurt.”

Tiafoe regretted giving Shelton too many chancestostayinthematch.

“Leave door open for a lot of guys, you’re playing with fire,” he said “Just gonna learn from these moments... It hurtsnow.”

- Gauff cools off Ostapenko-

Gauff swept into the last four earlier on Tuesday with a 6-0, 6-2 win over Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenkoin68minutesin thebakingmiddayheat.

The 19-year-old is the first American teenager to reach the US Open semi-finals since SerenaWilliamsin2001.

The sixth seed will meet this year’s French Open runner-up Karolina Muchova for a place in Saturday’s finalinarepeat of the championship match won by Gauff last month in Cincinnati.

“It feels great, I’m so happy,” said Gauff “Last year I lost in the quarter-finals stage and wanted to do better this year

I have a long way to go but I’m happy and will be readyforthenextone.”

Gauff has now won 16 of 17 matches since her first round loss at Wimbledon, her recent titles in Washington and Cincinnati establishing herself as one of the US Openfavourites.

“There’s still a lot of tennis left to play, and it’s a long match and a long tournament,”saidGauff “You know, even though the semi-finals, by theory, if you want to win there’s two matches left You can’t think like that.”

Muchova reached her second Grand Slam semifinal of the season with a 6-0, 6-3 demolition of veteran Romanian 30th seedSoranaCirstea.

The 10th-seeded Czechbrokesixtimesand hit 32 winners in a c o n s u m m a t e performance “I’m just trying to keep things actually pretty easy and don’t put much expectations on me,”saidMuchova Cirstea, 33, had been playing in the quarter-finals ofaGrandSlamforonlythe secondtimeinaprofessional careerthatbeganin2006.

Knight Riders keep final hopes alive with first win

CPL - Trinbago Knight

Riders recorded their first win of the 2023 Massy Women’s Premier League (WCPL) to keep their final hopes alive at Queen’s Park OvalinTrinidad.

The Knight Riders beat Hayley Matthews’ previously unbeaten BarbadosRoyalsby13runs, meaning the winner of the final group match between the Knight Riders and the GuyanaAmazonWarriorson Saturday will play the RoyalsinSunday’sfinal.

The Knight Riders kept the theme going with winning the toss and opting tobatfirst.DeandraDottin’s side applied pressure early with a strong PowerPlay setting up for a big score, keeping wickets in hand, eventually finishing on 155/3.

Gaby Lewis put up a good fight with a halfcenturyinreplyafteragood

startwithMatthewsbuttight bowling eventually made 156 look too far away late on.

Knight Riders scored 33 runs inside two overs in the PowerPlay courtesy of quickfire starts from Marie KellyandKyciaKnight.

At 58/1 from six overs, thehostscontinuedtoputon partnerships with low risk through the experience of captain Deandra Dottin and Mignon du Preez keeping the steady innings ticking over to reach 155/3 despite justonesixintheinnings.

A m a n d a - J a d e Wellington prevented a higher score with very economicalfiguresof0/11in the middle overs while Matthewspickedupapairof wickets, one at each end of the innings to finish with 2/23.

TheRoyalshadchaseda score higher than this total already in this year’s

competition but it wasn’t to be on this occasion despite causingthreatthroughout.

Matthews came out firing, reaching her highest score of theWCPLthis year with 45 before she was dismissed by 15-year-old SamaraRamnathonherT20 debut.

After a more supportive role initially, Irish international, Lewis kicked on to 62, bringing up her 50 in 43 balls, another substantial knock for the Royalsafterher47inmatch one.

WithotheroverseasErin Burns and Laura Harris failing to get out of single figures, the wickets continued to fall for the Royals and Lewis’ dismissal in the 18th over needing to up the run rate to 12-an-over, the innings fizzledoutatthehandsof18 oversofspinfromtheKnight Riders.

Novak Djokovic is 13-0 in US Open quarter-finals (TIMOTHYA. CLARY)

Empire Cricket Club carts off NYNCL Deo & Sons Free T20 trophy

Empire Cricket Clubsurgedtoan efficient 50-run win over Trini Boyz last SundayatDrewPark,andin the process carted off the New York National Cricket League (NYNCL) Deo & SonsFreeT20trophy.

Empire Cricket Club racked up a sufficient 192-6 from the 20-overs whileTrini Boyzwereleftstrandedat1427 when the 20-overs expired

Theirinningswassetbackby off-spinner Mahendra Parasram, who grabbed 3-22 fromhismaximumfourovers

Trini Boyz had a horrendous start losing their first wicket with just 2 runs on the board. Despite a few promises after, they still struggled reaching a precariouspositionat89-5.

Parasramwaseventually named player-of-the-match.

Mark Gomes offered a fight with 29 while Travis Perry and Satrohan Singh chipped in with 28 and 25 respectively.FormerGuyana youth player Mohindra

Boodram scored 24 to prolongthedefeat.

Earlier, Empire Cricket Club won the toss and without hesitation, opted to batonagoodbattingsurface.

Their innings got immediate impetus with an impressive 113-run opening stand between top-scorer Avinash Sookraj and

Dassram Raghunnandan

The left-handed Sookraj stroked 65 which included 12foursfrom35balls,while Raghunnandan made 44 (6x4)from32deliveries.

Kevin Jairam added useful runs to the total with 32 while Parasram proved his all-round capability by

contributing 21 Off-spinner Boodramcaptured2-31from four overs while Singh also bagged two wickets but

conceded39runsinhisfourover outing Meanwhile, six teamsbeganparticipationand they were apart of the

NYNCL 40 and 30-overs competitionsaswell Captain of the victorious side Brandon Cabose expressed

elation with the team’s allround performances and d e l i g h t w i t h t h e accomplishment.

National Sterling Products’ Outdoor Archery Championships a success

Archery Guyana’s N a t i o n a l O u t d o o r Championships 2023, sponsored by Sterling Products Limited and Oasis Water,wererecentlyheldon Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20 at the Queen’s College Playfield, ThomasLands,Georgetown.

A total of 30 archers participated, 21 men and 9 women. Shooting off on S a t u r d a y 1 9 , t h e qualification rounds were literally hotly contested in both Recurve and Barebow categories in the blistering heat.TheNationalJudgesfor the competition were DOS (Director of Shooting) Mr Ryan McKinnon and Line/Target Judge Mr RobertSingh.

BAREBOW

In the Barebow Men’s division, Jeewanram Persaudnarrowlytoppedoff thelistwith601pointswhile Mehandra Chatargum came in a close 600 and Ryan Chichester at 509 for 3rd place. Following up on points were Muhammad Zamaluddin 499, Vishal Manbode 452, Faraad Gani 394, Richard Dookie 358, Courtlee Rodrigues 322, Jaza Percival 305 and Afzal Karim297.

In the U18 Barebow Men, Saifullah Gani scored highest(548)tobeatMuhsin Wazidali’s273andChristian

Craigen’s 119. They were only three Under18 men to contestthecategory IntheBarebowWomen’s category, Roshini Boodhoo topped with 422 as Melesa Ramnaraine scored 351, Julie-Ann Williams 259, followed by Fatima Ameera Gani 211 and Karin Toppin 191.

RECURVE

Seven men contested the Recurve ranking round, and again it was Persaud that came out on top. He scored 647 ahead of Chatargum’s 606. Saeed Karim came in 3rd with 571, followed by Vishal Manbode 489, Jaza Percival 488, Naresh Sukhu 444andFaraadGani415.

IntheWomen’scategory Roshini Boodhoo again beat

all her opponents to score 439 over Julie-Ann Williams’ 388, Samira Duncan’s 382 and Karin Toppin’s212.

FINALS

The Semi-Finals and Finals were held on Sunday 20th August as the archers fought to medal in their respective categories. The Barebow Men’s Final saw Mehandra Chatargum earn the top spot for Gold over Jeewanram Perdaud’s Silver andFaraadGani’sBronze.

In the U18 Barebow Men’s Final Saifullah Gani copped the Gold as Muhsin Wazidali took silver and Christian Craigen took bronze.

TheMen’sRecurvesaw Persaud take Gold, with

Karim taking silver and Chatargum, Bronze. And in the Women’s Recurve Boodhootookhomethegold

as Duncan and Williams settledforSilverandBronze respectively At the presentation ceremony,

Remarks were delivered by Marketing Manager, Mr Dellon Lynch of Sterling Products who indicated he was impressed at the high level of Archery he witnessed and presented the medalistswithatubofIgloo icecreameach.Healsowent on to indicate that his companywouldbedelighted to see their sponsored event on the yearly calendar and looksforwardtonextyear President of Archery Guyana, Mrs Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon conveyedthankstothehardworking Committee, the Judges and extended special thanks to Chief Executive officer,Mr RamsayAli, (Continuedonpage21)

The victorious Empire Cricket Club team strike a pose after the game.

President of Archery Guyana, Ms. Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon on right congratulatingMr. Jeewanram Persaud for securing Gold in Men Recurve.

President of Archery Guyana, Ms. Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon on right congratulating Master Saifullah Gani for securing Gold in Men Under 18 Barebow

Peter

Lewis Construction & Asphalt Plant Services Big Man Cricket2 rounds 6&7

A. Duke slams only century in last weekend’s matches

-PoweredbyBlueWatersastheofficialwaterforBMCcricket

Big Man Cricket2@ O40s T25 tournament

continued Saturday & Sunday last with matches at various venues across Berbice, Essequibo and Demerara On Saturday, only one century was recorded by A. Duke of O Mend of Guyana, whilst several half centuries highlighted the matches in batsman friendly conditions where there was a solitary score in excess of 200 was recorded by GT Royals of 250/6againstthesaidOMen ofGuyana.

ROUND6-SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER2nd,2023

At the Blairmont ground - Match 1 - Enterprise stormed back to their winning ways by easily disposing of Legend Rangers Batting first, Legend Rangers posted a decent 167 for 6 off their allotted 25 overs after being insertedtobatbyEnterprise.

E. Seegobin top scored with 84(5X6s&7X4s).Opener

P Baldeosupportedwith25. V Persaud and C. Tickaram both picked up 2 wickets apiece. Enterprise overtook thescorein24overslosing4 wicketsintheprocesstowin by6wickets.Severaloftheir batters contributed to their score- P Dindyal hit a polished undefeated half century 54*, and was well supportedbyopenerKhaleel Mohamed 32, Rohan

Mangal 36 and D. Persaud 29. L. Latchman finished with the impressive figures

of3for26offhis5overs.

AttheBlairmontgroundMatch 2 - In the second match of the double header, Jai Hind Jaguars easily overpowered East Side Legends. East Side Legends tookfirststrikeandposteda formidable 186 for 2 in 20 o v e r s O p e n e r K

Bissoondial top scored with 75. He was well supported byM.Bridgelallwith41and H. Harrilall 34. Jai Hind responded with 189 for 4 wickets in 18 5 overs

Former West Indies test

batsman, Sewnarine Chattergoon,rolledbackthe years with an undefeated 59 and was well supported by K. Mahadeo 57* and Imran Khan 26. S. Khan picked up 3for29offhisallottedovers.

At Enmore groundMatch3-GTRoyalsgotthe better of O Men of Guyana. Batting first at the beautiful Enmore ground, GT Royals rattled up the 2nd highest scoreofthetournament-250 for 6 wickets. Richard Latif was again among the runs with 78, ably supported by Troy Benn 31 and Dindan 26. Bashur Khan was the pickofthebowlerswith3for 28 off his 4 overs. In their reply, O Men of Guyana could only muster 178 from their 25 overs to lose by 72 runs.A.Dukehitthesolitary century for the weekend, an even hundred and S. Alick scored22.

At the Enmore groundM a t c h 4 - R e g a l overpowered the undefeated

Everest Masters in their matchup in the other double header at this ground Everest could only make 156/6offtheir24overswith Rooplalltopscoringwith55. Regal openers led from the front, both registering half centuries - S. Hardeo scored 53andR.Ramdassmade66. Afterthefalloftheopeners, there was a brief wobble in the middle but Regal got homewithoverstospare.

AttheReliancegroundMatch5:EssequiboMasters made light work of the East BankTitans.

East Bank batted first and could only muster 120 all out. The boys from the Cinderella County quickly erased this score for the loss of 3 wickets in 10.2 overs. Opener V Lall smashed an unbeaten 63* and took their sidehomealongsideRamesh Narine with an unbeaten 42*. AttheCanal#2ground - Match 6 - West bank Warriors completely decimated the Canal #1 Scorpions.Thismatchwasa Round3matchupwhichwas now played. The Scorpions were bowled out for 39 and the Warriors got to this total inamere3.5overs.

ROUND7-SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER3rd,2023

AttheBlairmontgroundMatch 1 - Enterprise beat X Berbice Police Masters by 5 wickets. The lawmen took first strike and were restrictedto147allout.

West Indies O40s selectee, Devon Clements,

continued with his rich vein of form to register another half century in their last match of this year’s tournament. He finished on 54. A. Doris also made 28 and G. Crandon made 16. Therewere3runoutsintheir innings Enterprise V Persaud, C. Tickaran and C. Singhallpickedup2wickets apiecefor23,21and28runs respectively. Enterprise knocked off the required runsin22.5overstocapoffa successful weekend with 2 wins Opener Rajmangal with 41 along with P Dindyal with 41* and K. Mohamed 21 were the principalcontributors.

AttheBlairmontgroundMatch 2 - Jai Hind Jaguars defeated GT Royals by 6 wickets. Batting first, GT

Royals posted 133 for 6 wickets. There were useful contributions from G Sugrim 21, A. Mustafa 20, Batson 31 and S. Massiah 27* Their score was overhauledbytheJaguarsin 17.5oversforthelossofjust 4 wickets Imran Khan

continued being among the runs with a polished 46 opening the batting J Somairalsofinishedon47*. R. Latif took 2 for 35.At theJaiHindground-Match3 - Legend Rangers earned a walkover from East Side legends.

GBA to maintain youth development programme focus

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will maintain its focus on its

resumption of the monthly Pepsi Mike Parris School Boys and Girls Junior Championships at the Andrew “Six Head” Lewis gym, Albouystown, on Saturdayfrom1:00p.m.

Therecommencementof this monthly apparatus comes in the wake of the recently staged Winfield Braithwaite Caribbean

Schoolboys/Juniors Championship, which was hosted from August 18th –20th at the National

Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, and featured the overseas participation of Barbados, Grenada, St Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Theweigh-inandmedical examinations of the respective pugilists for the competition, which will be supervisedbyGBATechnical DirectorTerrencePoole,will occur at 10:00 am at the same facility The event is opentoallthegymsaffiliated with the local governing body Several fighters who competed in the prestigious Caribbean Championship will enter the squared circle Technical Director Poole

said,“Thisisthenormalu16 tournament that is held monthly,andwhilewearenot surehowmanygymswill be competing, it is open to everyone, and participation will be confirmed at the registration.Asofnow,allthe

gyms have been invited to compete This is very importantfortheyouthaswe continue to work on our nursery program That is our focus because the more competitions that are staged will lead to more experience

This is what develops the fightersforthefuturebecause wewillneedthemtotransition andtakeoverfromtheseniors inthenot-so-distantfuture,so we have to continue this process”

Meanwhile, Steve Ninvalle, President of the GBA,stated,“Thisissimply theresumptionofourregular programming, which is the emphasis on the continued evolution of our nursery programme.Thisinitiativeis the proverbial bread and butter or staple of the association’s long-term developmentframeworkand continues to provide empirical evidence of its

success by creating and maintaining an assembly line of talents that have continued to dominate the English-speaking Caribbean region. This was on full display at the recently held Winfield Braithwaite Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Championship, whereGuyanawonthemost medals and emerged once again as the overall champion. The GBA will continue to institute this programme and will expand on its scope with the introduction of other participating gyms, which will add another dimension totheapparatus.”

Sewnarine Chattergoon

Steve Ninvalle

Terrence Poole

Eleven footballers, GFF administrators awarded scholarships for MACORP excavator training

Th e G u y a n a F o o t b a l l Federation (GFF) hasawardedatotalofeleven f o o t b a l l e r s a n d administrators scholarships fortheMACORPExcavator TrainingProgramme.

T h e t h r e e - w e e k programme,whichofficially startedonSeptember4,aims to certify the nine men and two women as heavy-duty excavator operators The batch of scholarship awardees represents a diversegroupofindividuals, including two individuals from the Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

GFF President Wayne Forde congratulated the scholarship recipients and emphasised the ongoing commitment of the Federation to prioritise offthe-pitch opportunities for footballersinGuyana.

“I am delighted to join with the rest of our football c o m m u n i t y i n congratulating the eleven MACORP Scholarship

recipients,whobegananew and exciting journey today

Over the next few weeks, they will acquire the skills, knowledge and certification as excavator operators. It is of strategic importance that theGFFcontinuestoexplore more opportunities for job placement, internship and academic pursuit for our maleandfemalefootballers.

The scholarship programme, which was launched in 2021, is designed to provide individuals involved in the game of football with an opportunity to acquire new skillsthatcanbeusedtoearn a livelihood beyond their activefootballcareers.

Todate,atotalof21male and female footballers have completed the training programme and are now certified MACORP operators.

Forde expressed his gratitude to MACORP for t h e i r u n w a v e r i n g

commitment to the Federation’s vision for football development and

also urged the scholarship awardees to demonstrate dedication and commitment throughout their training journey

“Guyanaiswitnessingan unprecedented demand for skilled labour across many s e c t o r s , w i t h t h e construction industry leading at a breathtaking pace I am therefore extremely happy to see our

EDFA Leg of Menʼs Senior League Football...

youngfootballerssettingthe right example by dedicating thetimeandeffortnecessary todevelopkeyexpertisethat would allow them to transition smoothly to a life of business or gainful employment, after their

playing days are over,”

Forde shared, adding: “I would like to thank the Management of MACORP for being a shining example of Corporate goodwill towardsouryoungpeople.”

The group of recipients

will acquire the necessary knowledge and practical experiencetooperateheavyduty excavators effectively andsafelythroughhands-on training, theoretical instruction, and practical assessments.

Abel’s

hat-trick spurs Airy Hall to a 4-1 win over Haslington All Stars - Buxton and Mahaica finish 1-goal apiece

Buxton Stars and

Mahaica Determinators battled to a 1-1 draw, while Airy Hall dominated

HaslingtonAllStarsFCwith a 4-1 victory in the latest fixtures of the East Coast of Demerara Football

Association (EDFA) Men’s SeniorFootballLeague,held on Sunday at the Buxton CommunityCentreground.

In the opening match, Deshawn McPherson of BuxtonStarsfoundtheback of the net, giving the home teamanearlyleadinthe34th minute. The Mahaica side relentlessly pursued the equaliser for the remainder of the first half, but Buxton Stars managed to hold them off. As the first 45 minutes concluded, the Buxtonians led1-0.

The second half was a thrilling spectacle, with the Determinators securing a late equaliser in the 87th minute, courtesy of Julius Hamilton’s magnificent strike. However, with little timeremainingontheclock,

Airy Hall’s goalscorers

Eon Abel and Leroy Halley

the match ultimately ended ina1-1draw

Following that exciting contest,AiryHalldeliveredan impressive performance, defeatingHaslingtonAllStars

4-1 EonAbel was the star of theshow,nettingaremarkable hat-trick for Airy Hall with goals in the 24th, 55th, and 60th minutes Leroy Halley addedanothergoaltosolidify their impressive 4-1 victory

T h e e x c i t e m e n t continuedatthesamevenue y e s t e r d a y , w i t h Beterverwagting/Triumph United facing off against Victoria Scorpions Additional matches are scheduled for Friday and throughouttheweekend.

The footballers and administrators who were awarded scholarships for the MACORP Excavator Training Programme and officials at the official opening.

Delroy Benjamin scored the lone goal for Haslington All Stars in the 29th minute in a losingeffort

Trinbago Knight Riders wicketkeeper celebrate a wicket. (CPL)