Guyana Times -- Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Adonijah Jerome

Delicia Edwards

Sabrina John

Lorita Williams

Arianna Edwards

Mary Dandrade

Nathalie Bellarmine

Omerfia Edwin

Andrea Roberts

Loreen Evans

Sherana Daniels

Cleoma Simon

Belnisa Evans

Martha Dandrade

Tracil Thomas

Eulander Carter

Bibi Jeffery

Nicholeen Robinson

Lisa Roberts

Govt to partner with India, Brazil to reignite local coffee industry

President Dr Irfaan

Ali unveiled that the Government of Guyana will soon be partnering with both Brazil and India to establish nurseries

across the country to reignite the local coffee industry.

He made this announcement during the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana’s (THAG) President’s Award Dinner and Auction on Saturday.

The Head of State boasted that Guyana is home to one of the world’s rarest coffee beans, as he highlighted the range of opportunities the country has in this sector.

“Liberica is one of the rarest coffee beans, previously known as ‘elephant beans’ because of its size and only two per cent of the world market comprises of liberica coffee. So, we are now on a journey to rebuild the coffee industry, we are speaking with scientists out of Brazil [and] India to come in and to establish the nurseries here, so we can go

on massive large-scale production,” the President revealed.

Earlier this month, the Government announced plans to attract investors to enhance the production of a number of high-value products in the Pomeroon region including coffee.

Speaking during a visit to the community, Ali stated that the Government wants to promote sustainable and resilient agriculture, and this will see special initiatives being undertaken across the country.

“One of the projects we were working on for Pomeroon is to see how we can get big investors with huge capital to come work with the small farmers, because we want to reignite the coffee industry and expand the coconut and citrus industry…so that the Pomeroon can be an import-

ant export location for these three important commodities, including cocoa. We’re now doing some research on cocoa,” Ali stated.

According to Ali, there is tremendous potential in Pomeroon to establish a large-scale local coffee industry for regional and international markets. He noted that of the three main types of coffee beans used around the world, the Pomeroon is home to the liberica bean, which accounts

for only two per cent of the world’s coffee production.

“The coffee industry is a high-value industry, and I think we have tremendous potential for the Pomeroon…I don’t know if you know, but the Pomeroon produces liberica… There is a tremendous possibility in us reviving the coffee industry,” he posited.

Meanwhile, in August 2022, it was reported that the Agriculture Ministry in collaboration with the

Inter-American Institute of Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) was set to restart coffee cultivation in the Pomeroon Region Two area.

The Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, had explained that the goal was to supply the local coffee market within three years.

“We have IICA working with us to develop coffee production once again in the Pomeroon. We’re hoping that in three years, Pomeroon will give us all the coffee and we will be supplying Guyana’s entire coffee needs,” said the Agriculture Minister.

During the launch of Starbucks in April, the Head of State encouraged the American multinational coffeehouse to incorporate the local coffee bean into their stores.

“I welcome you Starbucks, to the land of liberica and I hope that in your brand, this unique coffee would be sold and this unique coffee will be grown [on a] commercial scale. And with your support, this coffee that only one per cent of the coffee market can enjoy because of its rareness can be shared with the rest of the world and Guyana,” the President remarked.

President Dr Irfaan Ali during THAG’s dinner and auction

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, May 23 – 04:15h –05:45h and Wednesday, May 24 – 04:15h – 05:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, May 23 – 05:45h –07:15h and Wednesday, May 24 – 06:25h – 07:55h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers during the day and night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East South-Easterly to Easterly between 1.18 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 06:18h and 18:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.54 metres and 2.32 metres.

Low Tide: 12:23h reaching a minimum height of 0.71 metre.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

By Pooja RamBaRan

Nineteen children died following a fire on Sunday that engulfed Mahdia Secondary School’s female dormitory in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

Dead are eighteen girls between the ages of 12 and 17 and a five-yearold boy. The dead students are Tracil Thomas; Lisa Roberts; Delicia Edwards; Lorita Williams; Natalie Bellarmine; Arriana

gations, Guyana Fire Service Deputy Chief Fire Officer Dwayne Scotland revealed that the fire was maliciously set and the origin was identified as the south-western end of the building.

Scotland added that after this initial discovery, the scene was handed over to the Guyana Police Force.

Though it has not yet been confirmed by authorities, Guyana Times was reliably informed that the fire was allegedly set by a student who was upset by the

coordinated by President Dr Irfaan Ali, who was at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara in the wee hours of Monday morning. The medical evacuation was overseen by National Security Advisor Gerry Gouveia.

“All of the operatives –Air Services, TransGuyana, Roraima, the Guyana Defence Force Air Corp – responded immediately as the horrific details of this came to us,” Gouveia said.

“It was a battle because of the weather. There was a lot of lightning and thunder…but the pilots were very brave and determined,” he said, adding that Mahdia’s mountainous terrain was an additional challenge.

Injured

Of the six admitted to GPHC, two were intubated and receiving ventilation support in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and one was rushed to the Operating

affected children and parents of the fatal fire were underway, with the team including members of the Health Ministry’s Mental Health Unit, Guyana Public Health Corporation (GPHC) Psychiatry/Psychology Unit and Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s Child Care and Protection Agency.

“We are now endeavouring to not only deal with those persons who are survivors and experiencing the trauma [and] ordeal but also the parents and families who also have to deal with that trauma,” Dr Persaud said.

Later Monday, three more children were admitted to GPHC.

“We managed to triage and figure out those who need a higher level of care and we brought them out in stages as they would have become more stabilised,” Dr Rajkumar said during a press conference upon his return to GPHC with the three additional patients.

Edwards; Cleoma Simon; Subrina John; Martha Dandrade; Loreen Evans; Belnisa Evans; Mary Dandrade; Omerfia Edwin; Nickleen Robinson; Sherina Daniels; Eulander Carter; Andrea Roberts and Rita Jeffrey. Additionally, fiveyear-old Adanye Jerome, the son of dorm parents who were attempting to rescue other children at the time, also lost his life.

The Mahdia school dormitory houses about 59 students from communities of Karisparu, El Paso, Micobie and Chenapao, Region Eight.

Of those who passed away is 13-year-old Micobie resident Andrea Roberts, who leaves behind her parents, four sisters and two brothers.

“Happy, joyful, always willing…if I asked [her for anything], she was always willing,” said Benedict Roberts, the victim’s father.

According to the senior Roberts, his daughter’s body was beyond recognition when it was recovered.

“I can’t explain my feelings,” Roberts said.

Maliciously set

Following initial investi-

confiscation of her phone following concerns that the dorm administrators had with her behaviour.

She was reportedly previously suspended for engaging in activities contrary to the rules of the institution and was involved in an argument with the administrators during which she allegedly threatened to cause “trouble.”

The fire was set in the bathroom area of the dormitory and the student is currently under psychological supervision.

According to a Guyana Fire Service press release, 14 youths died at the scene of the fire, while five died at Mahdia District Hospital, with five remaining at the Mahdia Hospital and 10 under observation.

Head of GPHC’s Burns Unit, Dr Shilindra Rajkumar alongside Dr Christopher Heywood were flown into the mining town to provide immediate care to victims and determine which were required to be shifted to the hospital.

As such, six were initially air-dashed to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) through one of the medical evacuation efforts

Theatre (OT) to undergo limb saving surgery.

The other three children, who were in less critical conditions, received assistance in the hospital’s Paediatric High Dependency Unit (HDU), which is a stepdown from the ICU according to Medical Officer within the Burn Unit, Dr Vickita Nandan during a press conference.

While the parents of these children were still in Mahdia, they were receiving updates from Dr Rajkumar, according to the Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, who was also present at the press briefing.

Dr Persaud added that plans to mobilise a mental health support team to aid

He explained that one of these patients had predisposing conditions purported to be pneumonia since the child complained of a cough and slight fever prior to the fire that was only exacerbated by the subsequent smoke inhalation.

Dr Rajkumar added that the children affected by the fire are also experiencing elements of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

“These kids are in a state of shock right now. And it has been a very challenging night and day for them,” he said, adding the need for them to receive counselling.

Meanwhile, the GPHC doctor commended the staff of the Mahdia District Hospital for their efforts.

A nation mourns 19 children die, 41 survive tragic school dorm fire maliciously set by student …DNA analysis to be carried out on 13 bodies

Views

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Brave new world

In our first editorial of the year, “Digital IDs in the New Year”, we discussed the Government’s initiative to issue digital IDs in line with the world’s inexorable movement from analogue communication to digital. We noted, “the ID cards will have a secure chip, which can store data including blood type, date of birth, drivers’ licence and taxpayer’s identification number.” But these IDs will only be the initial step in plugging us into “the Internet of Things”. And no, this is not science fiction. With the evolution of the fifthgeneration (5G) wireless network and the ongoing work on 6G, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become a revolutionary technique that enables a diverse number of features and applications.

The Internet of Things, or IoT, evolved from the convergence of development in a host of hardware and software in the communications sector: wireless technologies, microelectromechanical systems, microservices and the Internet. One critical outcome from this confluence has helped remove the barriers between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT). This outcome facilitated unstructured machine-generated data to be analysed for insights to drive improvements.

In layman’s terms, the IoT will potentially be connecting all living and non-living things via the Internet; with the information gleaned or generated used in unimaginable ways. Since it is “a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines, objects, animals or people that are provided with unique identifiers (UIDs) and the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction”, the entire earth can be in communication. In the IoT, a “thing” can be a vehicle or any other device that has those built-in sensors that already inform us when one or more devices are malfunctioning. It can be a person’s pacemaker or cows with biochip transponders and digital IDs.

The IoT is a new paradigm that has changed the traditional way of living into a high-tech lifestyle. Smart cities; smart homes; pollution control; energy saving; smart transportation; smart industries; healthcare, and environmental, commercial, industrial, infrastructural applications are such transformations due to IoT. Smart homes are already being built that are equipped with smart thermostats, smart appliances and connected heating, lighting and electronic devices that can be controlled remotely via computers and smartphones. Such buildings can, for instance, reduce energy costs using sensors that detect how many occupants are in a room. The temperature can adjust automatically — for example, turning the air conditioner on if sensors detect a conference room is full or turning the heat down if everyone in the office has gone home.

Even complete smart cities can be created and from what we have heard, Silica City on the Linden Highway will be built along these lines. In a smart city, IoT sensors and deployments, such as smart streetlights and smart meters, can help alleviate traffic jams, conserve energy, monitor and address environmental concerns, and improve sanitation. In healthcare, IoT offers many benefits, including the ability to monitor patients more closely using an analysis of the data that’s generated. Hospitals often use IoT systems to complete tasks such as inventory management for both pharmaceuticals and medical instruments. Increasingly, organisations in a variety of industries are using IoT to operate more efficiently, better understand customers to deliver enhanced customer service, improve decision-making and increase the value of the business.

Security of data will clearly be a major issue since the IoT connects billions of devices to the Internet and involves the use of billions of data points, creating an exponentially-expanded attack surface. Because IoT devices are closely connected, hackers can exploit a single vulnerability to manipulate all the data, rendering it unusable. Additionally, connected devices often ask users to input their personal information, including names, ages, addresses, phone numbers and even social media accounts — invaluable information to hackers.

Beyond leaking personal data, IoT can pose risks to critical infrastructure, including electricity, transportation and financial services. To prevent security attacks, several security mechanisms are involved in IoT applications including authentication, encryption, blockchain, and trust management. Welcome to the brave new world of IoT.

Flawed analysis on Guyana’s oil and gas industry: a critical review

Dear Editor,

In an article published in the media on May 16, 2023 Kenrick Hunte argued that the stated production life of 20 years for the project is “highly misleading and horribly wrong”. The author contended that “since Uaru has an inventory of 812 million barrels of oil; and since 250,000 barrels of oil will be produced daily, this implies that the oil will be fully extracted in 3248 days or 8.899 years, assuming 365 days per year. More significant is the fact that if EEPGL employs debottlenecking technology as was done recently; and raise the daily production to 360,000 per day, then the life of the Uaru project with higher risks will be only 6.18 years, and not 20 years! Moreover, reflecting on the comments (KN: 5/14/2023) made by ExxonMobil Corporation’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Kathy Mikells who said ‘… that the oil giant is sparing no effort in maximising value from Guyana on all fronts, as quickly as possible. …’. that the people of Guyana, in broad daylight, were being taken advantage of, given the small share of the total revenue (14.5%) that Guyana will receive from a non-renewable resource that will be exhausted in or before 2034. Consequently, the Government of Guyana should explain how this poor project evaluation was

accepted”. The author also erred in his calculation on the production cost per barrel.

Petroleum Economics Basics: The Decline Curve

The analysis by Kenrick Hunte suggests that he hasn’t taken the time to study the petroleum economics literature. At least the basics. Because, had he done so, he would have had a better understanding of the economics for oil fields in general.

An elementary understanding of oil and gas decline curves is a pre-requisite before engaging in the foregoing discussion or debate. In this respect, in the petroleum economics literature, the decline curve basics state that when oil and gas is initially produced it is known as primary production. Though there are a few exceptions, production from a strong water-drive reservoir may initially be flat. However, as oil or gas is produced, the water moves toward the well and eventually begins to be produced at which time oil or gas production begins to decline. In cases where the production is limited to production facilities, the production is curtailed (CED engineering).

“As time passes, the reservoir pressure declines to a point when the well can no longer produce at the curtailed rate and production begins to decline. To in-

crease production and reserves in oil and gas wells, water, or other fluids (gas, CO2, etc) may be injected into the reservoir. This is most common in oil reservoirs than gas reservoirs. Injecting fluids requires additional wells to be drilled, or some of the existing producing wells be converted to injection wells. The purpose of these injected fluids is to increase the reservoir pressure and push oil and gas to the production wells. If this occurs during or after primary production, this is known as secondary recovery. If some form of secondary recovery has already been done, then it is known as tertiary recovery. The oil and gas production from secondary and tertiary recovery projects will typically increase until some point in time and then eventually decline as those injected fluids, along with oil and gas is produced.” (CED engineering).

Further, “regardless of whether a well is under primary, secondary, or tertiary production, it should be evident that production from wells will eventually decline”.

With the aforementioned in mind, the stated inventory of the Uaru field of 812 million barrels of oil is understood to be the estimated proven reserve within that field. Therefore, given the daily production rate of 250,000 barrels per day, the 812 million barrels will be

exhausted in 8.9 years. This means that plateau production will last for approximately nine years based on the proven estimate of 812 million barrels. And following plateau, production typically declines 6-8% per annum unless additional drilling or recovery methods are employed. Suffice it to state, it is for this reason that the production licence has a life of twenty years to accommodate the entire life cycle of crude oil production.

Average cost per barrel of crude

The author mistakenly presumed that the 75% cost recovery ceiling is the total cost from which he derived an average cost per barrel of crude of US$52.86 using data reported on crude oil production in the Bank of Guyana report for 2021. However, the correct [average] cost per barrel of crude oil based on the financial information reported in the 2021 financials for EEPGL, Hess and CNOOC, and based on the total crude oil produced in 2021 which was 42.213 million?would in fact work out to US$26 per barrel (Total Operating Cost:US$1.099b/ Total Production: 42.213m barrels). This is lower than the average cost per barrel of crude in the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Venezuela according to the comparative data presented by the author.

President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, along with National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia, speak to a mother whose daughter died in the Mahdia Secondary School Dormitory fire (Office of the President photo)

All Guyana mourns for the young citizens in a single tragedy

Dear Editor, The recent deadly fire tragedy at Mahdia, where at least 20 schoolgirls lost their lives when their dormitory became engulfed in flames, tells us one fundamental truth about ourselves – a truth that Guyanese do not even see because it is so endemic in our society – the plain truth that we are too dishonest for our own good.

Firstly, and I am sure I state this on behalf of all fellow Guyanese irrespective of race, region, religion or party affiliation, my heartfelt condolences are extended to all the bereaved families. Two of my children spent significant years of their lives living in school dorms, or the equivalent at university, with like-minded other youngsters there for further-

ing their education. I can well imagine how wracked with grief the bereaved parents feel having not seen or maybe even spoken with their lost child possibly for weeks in some cases.

To a significant degree, dishonesty is to blame for the distressing deaths of those hapless girls. But for the security grilles in place on the windows of the dormitory –sensibly put in place for security reasons I would like to assume – all or most of those girls would have been alive today in the light of early reports that have emerged. But for the known fact that residential buildings in Guyana need to be protected against invasion by burglars, security grilles would not have been considered for installation over dormitory windows

Flawed analysis on...

Other commentary

On a completely different note, it would be remiss of this author not to highlight my utmost disappointment as to why Kenrick Hunte failed to respond to an article in which this author challenged him during his tenure as the General Manager of GAIBANK. Hunte had engaged this author in debates on the oil and gas front in 2022 on several occasions, but strange enough, conveniently chose to ignore that particular article. Is it because it is difficult to debunk or deny the empirically substantiated arguments in regard to GAIBANK’s egregious per-

formance under his stewardship?

Clearly, Kenrick Hunte’s analyses are deeply flawed in respect of oil and gas issues in Guyana. And a sea of unanswered questions remain regarding his stewardship of GAIBANK, since over the years, it was observed that he fiercely defended his track record. He did so although there was a lack of empirical evidence prior to this. However, on this particular occasion, strong, indisputable empirical evidences were presented.

Yours sincerely, Joel

Bhagwandin

as considerations of health and safety would have taken precedence.

It is sadly the case, however, that Guyanese have become so inherently dishonest that protecting oneself or one’s property is automatically given top priority. It’s the reason why sensible ladies carry handbags tucked under one arm rather than show off the bag’s design that attracted them to buy it in the first place. It is why passengers will lock car doors – not against inquisitive and playful children but against robbers – rather than consider that an unlocked door would give rescuers easier access in the event of an accident. It is also the reason why to run any business in Guyana it is imperative that the proprietor be physically present to “watchman” the running of shop, dredge or minibus – for otherwise the returns will just never be anywhere near to accurate as employees will always dishonestly seek to do their own business within the business.

Lost are some 20 young souls who would have had so much to enjoy in the new Guyana that is emerging before our very eyes – and each one would have played a part in the reinvigorated nation building process. Beyond the utterly terrible family tragedies, this manifestation of the real consequences of having to guard against dishonesty represents a huge loss to our country. It is also a wakeup call for all of us Guyanese –

it is a collective responsibility, so no finger-pointing or holier-than-thou attitude allowed – to strive to be honest in our interactions with each other. Public figures should lead the way; demonstrate by your actions that you are beyond reproach about allegations or even suggestions of corruption, and the wouldbe burglar could be encouraged to act contrary to his normal proclivities. Guyana is now making enough money that ought to keep both politician and burglar happy without the antisocial behaviour!

With such a positive adjustment of collective national attitude, grilles can become a measure deployed in exceptional circumstances only, rather than as an automatic security bolt-on that usually puts health and safety at real risk. Our actions taken to protect property should always be weighed against health and safety considerations. Grilles should not be installed over upper floor windows, for example, as a matter of course. Proper security lighting, and in appropriate circumstances disciplined human security, ought to be preferred options instead of the potentially deadly to occupants but reliable burglar-deterrent grilles.

Today all Guyana mourns losing the lives of many of our young citizens in a single tragedy. May their souls rest in peace.

Yours truly, Ronald

Bostwick

Adding mixed numbers with unlike denominators

There are two ways to do this. You could change each mixed number to an improper fraction and then add them. But an easier way to add mixed numbers is to add the whole number parts first and then add the fractions.

By Toi DerricoTTe

I’m turning the world of poetry over to Franny Choi

I’m leaving the world of poetry to Franny Choi

I’m giving the world of poetry to Franny Choi

I feel confident leaving the world of poetry to Franny Choi

I’m not sorry to give the world of poetry to Franny Choi

I feel poetry will be OK in the hands of Franny Choi

Exercises: Add

I’m not afraid for poetry as long as we have Franny Choi

It’s going to be a different world of poetry with Franny Choi

It’s going to be an amazing world of poetry with Franny Choi

It’s going to be a crazy world of poetry with Franny Choi

Poetry is going to be made/broken/& reimagined by Franny Choi

Hold your socks, poetry, here comes Franny Choi

Source: Poetry (May 2023)

WORD SEARCH

“Think twice” before hiring visa service providers – US Embassy warns

…some charging exorbitant fees, creating fake appointment

The US Embassy in Georgetown is warning members of the public about visa scams.

In a recent Ask the Consul Column, the Embassy noted that there has been an increase in third-party preparers or visa service providers creating fake appointment letters and charging exorbitant fees for visa services people can otherwise do by themselves.

In light of this, the consul has encouraged persons to “think twice” about getting assistance with the visa application process and has offered some tips to avoid scams.

The Embassy has said that visa and other immigration forms are always free and are available at https://ceac.state.gov/ ceac/ and https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms. Persons are urged to use these official sites for the correct, and up-to-date

forms.

A question was asked whether one should use a third party, such as internet café staff or a visa consultant to complete their visa application.

In this regard, it was advised that persons should avoid visa consultants who offer to improve their chances of qualifying for a visa by entering false information on their visa application.

“False information can disqualify you and make you permanently ineligible for a visa. You are responsible for what is in your visa application. For this reason, we encourage applicants to complete their visa application and pay the required visa processing fees themselves.”

Further, you must use your own email address to create an account to manage your visa application and appointment since the Consular Section often sends case status updates

to the email address you use to register. Using someone else’s email may cause you to miss important updates about your case and cause case delays. If someone is helping you with your visa application, you must make sure they give you the login details or confirmation number.

A free email account can be set up from a computer or smartphone. If you need assistance with the visa application

process, you must ensure that the person helping you is entering accurate information and review your application before it is submitted.

You should also request and keep a copy of your application and confirmation and proof of direct payment of the visa processing fees.

According to the consul, the embassy’s website at https://gy.usembassy.gov/ visas/ offers comprehensive information on all visa ser-

letters

vices along with the applicable fees.

Can you pay someone to improve your chances of getting a visa? The answer to this question is no. In fact, people have been advised to avoid anyone who makes such a claim.

“Visa consultants cannot improve your chances of qualifying for a visa and they have no “inside” connection with the Embassy. Your eligibility is determined by a consular officer after a visa interview. Report anyone who claims to improve your chances of qualifying for a visa to fpugeorge@state. gov,” the consul has further guided.

Knowing someone at the Embassy will not help you get a visa since an applicant’s qualifications – as presented in the visa application and at the interview – and US law are the only basis on which consul officers make visa decisions.

Regulations prohibit

Embassy officials from providing unofficial assistance to visa applicants.

The Embassy has said that the US Government works to ensure the visa process is open and transparent and maintains its website at https://gy.usembassy.gov/visas/ and https:// ais.usvisa-info.com/en-gy/ niv/users/sign_in with stepby-step information to help applicants through the various processes.

It was reiterated that some businesses who claim to be “visa facilitators” and “visa application service centres” profit by making the process appear more complicated than it really is.

Meanwhile, reporting fraud committed by someone else will not negatively impact your visa application. “Protecting the integrity of the visa process is a priority for us. To report visa fraud, email fpugeorge@state.gov,” the US Embassy has assured. (G1)

Convicted child rapist moves to CCJ to overturn life sentences …as CCJ to hold sittings in Guyana

Micah Williams, the child rapist whose appeal against his conviction and life sentences was completely rejected by the Court of Appeal (CoA), has now moved to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and the regional court will hear his matter during its itinerant sittings in Guyana next month.

The CCJ will hold sittings in Guyana from June 21 to 22 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. During this time, it will hear two cases from Guyana, another two from Barbados, and one from Dominica.

In December of last year, the local appellate court dismissed Williams’s appeal on finding that his convictions were safe and that the trial Judge properly exercised her sentencing discretion.

According to information

disclosed in court, 38-yearold Williams engaged in sexual penetration with the minor between January 1 and December 31, 2016, and then again on January 6, 2017, at a location in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice). He sexually penetrated the child both vaginally and anally. He was found unanimously guilty on the two counts after a trial before Justice Jo Ann Barlow at the Demerara High Court in April 2018.

In the end, he was sentenced to life imprisonment on each of the two charges, with the Judge ordering that the jail terms be served concurrently. He becomes eligible for parole after 20 years.

Williams, a former trade unionist, in his Notice of Appeal before the Court of Appeal, had contended that, among other things, the trial Judge did not fairly put

his defence to the jury.

In this regard, he had submitted that this was more of a “narrow issue”, that had to do with the victim being “prompted” to respond to questions while she was testifying.

Despite the jury’s verdict, he had argued that he was not the one who had abused the girl and had claimed that it was a 14-year-old boy. To this end, he had argued that two persons had “guided” the girl to implicate him, to cover up for the boy who had actually committed the crime.

Williams’s lawyers, Nigel Hughes and Ronald Daniels, had further submitted that the sentences were manifestly excessive and not in keeping with established sentencing guidelines.

In dismissing Williams’s appeal, the CoA led by Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Yonette Cummings-

Edwards held that the trial Judge had analysed the strengths and weaknesses of the case and had asked the jury to determine whether they were satisfied that he committed the crimes.

The convict’s ground of appeal that his defence was not sufficiently put to the jury was rejected as the appellate court ruled that it

was satisfied that his defence was adequately put.

His appeal against his sentence was also dismissed.

According to the CoA, sentencing is at the discretion of the trial Judge, who in this case, considered all the necessary factors before imposing the sentences.

These included Williams’s age at the time of the commissioning of the offence, his background, him being a first-time offender, and the serious nature and

prevalence of the offence.

In light of this, the CoA had said that it would not interfere with a sentence unless it was wrong in principle which was not so in this case.

During the hearing of the appeal, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Natasha Backer had argued that the trial Judge “more than sufficiently” put Williams’s defence to the jury.

TURN TO PAGE 8

Convicted child rapist Micah Williams

2 men plead guilty to drug, B&E charges

A30-year-old construction worker has been remanded to prison to await sentencing after pleading guilty to trafficking a quantity of marijuana.

Dave Brimmer, of Lot 50 Middle Street, McDoom, East Bank Demerara (EBD), appeared on Friday before acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

He pleaded guilty to the charge, which stated that on May 12 at Lot 50 Middle Street, McDoom, EBD, he had 468 grams of marijuana in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

When questioned by the Magistrate about why he had the drugs, Brimmer explained that it was for his personal use and that he had no intention of distributing it.

The convict will be sentenced on June 5.

According to the prosecution’s facts, at around 20:00h on the day in question, Police ranks acting on information went to the above address

Dave Brimmer

where they met Brimmer alone.

Police ranks informed him that they were at the premises to search for illegal drugs.

While searching in the bedroom, a black bag containing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be Cannabis sativa (marijuana) was found.

As such, he was arrested, told of the allegation, and cautioned, during which he ad-

mitted to owning the illicit substance. Brimmer was then escorted to the East Ruimveldt Police Station where the narcotic was weighed in his presence. He was kept in custody pending charges.

Meanwhile, in a separate matter, Louis Ramsay was also remanded to prison pending sentencing after he admitted to stealing over $1M in items from a bond.

During his appearance before Magistrate IsaacsMarcus, Ramsay confessed that between May 1 and 13, at Charlotte Street, Georgetown, he broke into Katchin Ramlakhan’s bond and stole a quantity of electric wires valued at $1M and 50 television brackets valued at $100,000.

The court was told that the defendant and the complainant are known to each other.

On May 1, Ramlakhan secured his bond, leaving the items inside.

However, when he returned on May 13, he observed that the reinforced grille work

Escape...

…end game

Louis Ramsay

on the bond was broken. He made further checks and discovered that the articles were missing.

A report was made to the Police. Based on investigations, the Police contacted Ramsay and questioned him during which he admitted to stealing some of the items. He was later arrested and charged. Ramsay’s sentencing hearing will also be on June 5. (G1)

Convicted child rapist moves to...

While referring to aspects of the records of appeal, Backer had pointed out, “Here, the Judge would have reminded the jury about the alleged conspiracy that [Williams] was relying on as the crux of his defence. The trial Judge reminded the jury of [Williams’s] insistence that it was not he who

would have committed the acts in question.”

Meanwhile, in reacting to the jury’s verdicts in the High Court, Williams had called them “strange”, while professing his innocence. “I find it strange this would be the position of the jury,” the convict had said as he described that day as the most

terrifying day of his life.

In her sentencing remarks, Justice Barlow had reprimanded an unremorseful Williams, whom she had called out for shifting the blame on the teenage boy. While telling the convict he could not play ignorant to the evidence, Justice Barlow had highlighted the se-

FROM PAGE 7

vere damage the abuse had caused to the young girl’s body. She had told Williams that although he fought for the rights of workers, he had violated the trust the child had in him. Williams was ordered to subject himself to counselling for sex offenders. (G1)

Mark “Smallie” Williams’ wasn’t an ordinary prisoner and his escape from the Mazaruni Jail CERTAINLY wasn’t ordinary. The most extraordinary fact about him is that he was a member of the most vicious criminal gang in the history of Guyana. Their escape was meticulously planned and executed clearly by individuals from outside the Jail. One prison guard was murdered and a Prison Officer injured for life as the escape unfolded. They’d gathered around the five prisoners who violently escaped from the Camp Street Jail in 2002 and who’d holed up in Buxton to unleash a reign of terroristic violence on the country that lasted almost a decade.

They hoped to stimulate an insurgency against the Government. From the onset they announced a POLITICAL programme by declaring war against the State as “Freedom Fighters” on behalf of African Guyanese. They not only took on the Police Force directly and murdered more Policemen than in the entire history of the Force since 1839 – but went after innocent civilians who were adjudged to be supporters merely because they were ethnically Indian Guyanese. They made Buxton the epicentre of their criminal reign, because the Police had killed an individual they insisted wasn’t a criminal as the Police asserted. However, even before that, there were individuals in Buxton who’d been militarily trained by an ex-GDN Officer for an insurgency. They’d murdered a father and a son from Lusignan who’d stumbled over their camp in the backdams of Buxton.

The insurgency was based on claims about oppression against African Guyanese which they hoped would mobilise wide support in that community. They killed Buxtonians who didn’t see eye to eye on their modus operandi – even as they committed several massacres in neighbouring Indian Guyanese villages. The most gruesome was the Massacre of Lusignan in which five children and 33 women and men –all Indian Guyanese – were killed in their beds as they slept. “Smallie” was involved with a massacre at Bartica in which the Police station was attacked and eight were killed there and in a boat at the wharf.

But even after the gang was decimated and individuals like “Smallie” were convicted and jailed…this mass murderer was one of the persons who broke out of the Camp St jail by burning it to the ground!! He was later recaptured and sent to Mazaruni. So shouldn’t his history have alerted the Mazaruni Prison officials to keep him under constant surveillance?? Especially when individuals are claiming African Guyanese are now in a PPP-constructed “emerging apartheid state” that must be confronted by any means necessary??

This alone demands an enquiry as to who sprung “Smallie” while the NSA beat the bushes to determine who was behind the military-type operation. Beware the repetition of history!!

…from obsolete institutions

The UN Secretary General just declared it’s past time to reform the Security Council and the Breton Woods institutions – the World Bank (WP) and the IMF. Now, these demands have been made for decades by the developing world – without success. Those institutions had been formed at the end of WWII in 1945 and gave the Western powers – especially the US and Europe - extraordinary powers to dominate the world.

For instance, the Security Council – dominated by the West – can veto any proposal by the other almost 200 countries! That’s especially important now that the UN can decide when to get involved in crises in its member states. The WB and the IMF, in the meantime, can control countries financially by deciding whether to offer loans for development while the IMM sets conditions when they can’t repay!!

The question, of course, is how the UN Chief’s desire gonna be fulfilled?? Will the BRICS meeting in August pick up his suggestion for a brave new world??

…for self-constructed prisons

Your Eyewitness’s heart bleeds at the tragedy of the Mahdia Secondary School. But let’s take note that it’s mainly because the windows were grilled that the victims couldn’t escape??

Don’t we have building codes??

The Government of Ghana, on Monday, commissioned the first Ghanaian Chamber of Commerce in Guyana. The organisation will allow the two countries to connect businesses and foster investment, which will drive further economic growth locally.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill remarked that he is happy

to see partnerships between the two countries. Minister Edghill, who is also responsible for the aviation sector, revealed that the two countries signed an Air Services Agreement, highlighting that it is now the private sector’s responsibility to operationalise same.

“We have signed an Air Service Agreement with Ghana, and it’s now up to the private sector, and I am glad

that this chamber is being launched, it is now left up to the private sector both here in Guyana, and in Ghana to operationalise an airline in keeping with those terms of conditions and freedoms that exist in that Air Services Agreement. So, if there is anything that could bring our people together, faster, it’s air transport,” Minister Edghill said.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s

Minister of Trade and Industry, Kobina Hammond, highlighted the need for trade between the two countries.

According to Hammond, “This is commerce, this is trade. We are talking about industrialisation, we are talking about [the] development of our respective countries but you cannot produce, you cannot industrialise, and keep all of the products that Ghanaian Minister Kobina Hammond during the commissioning ceremony

FROM PAGE 3

sages from leaders across Caricom and from international partners, who convey the love and prayers of their Governments and people.

Several organisations also offered words of support and resources to students and their families.

“These are all great initiatives. It allows Guyana’s private sector, with Government’s support and regulations and other incentives, to build global sectors, and when you build global sectors you can increase competitiveness,” Dr Ramsaroop said.

Ramsaroop further added that the countries have great potential for collaboration in the agriculture sector given that they both share common goals.

Ghanaian Chamber of Commerce commissioned in Guyana …to connect businesses, foster investment 19 children die, 41 survive...

“The staff in Mahdia did an amazing job with the resources that they had,” Dr Rajkumar said. “All staff came on board, all handson deck, all doctors, nurses, medics, everyone pitched in. And I think they did quite an amazing job to get these kids here.”

Every conceivable help

President Ali was present at the Ogle airport to receive the first six victims who were to be transported to GPHC.

Later, he joined Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn; Education Minister Priya Manickchand and Amerindian Affairs

Minister Pauline Sukhai to assess the site of the fire and offer condolence to the affected students and families. Travelling with the President also were Head of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Omar Khan and Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken along with National Security Advisor Gerry Gouveia.

During a press conference, Ali assured family members that the Government will ensure every step is taken to assist them following this tragedy.

“Every conceivable help, every conceivable assistance, every conceivable action that is required of the

Government, we will do, we will support and we will ensure that we are with you not only this day but through this difficult time,” Ali said.

DNA analysis

Due to the severity of the deaths, DNA analysis is needed to identify the 13 female victims who perished at the dormitory. The Government of Guyana has already sought the needed support from regional and international partners and is optimistic that by the end of the day, that support will be received to bring closure to the families.

President Ali said that he has received many mes-

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Central Islamic Organisation (CIORG), Comfort Sleep, Red Cross and United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) donated items such as mattresses, food, sanitary supplies and clothing.

The University of Guyana also deployed specialist teams to aid in the aftermath of the fire and their Mental Health Task Force is developing an emergency mental plan that will also seek to support first responders.

are produced in your country, there has to be some sort of trading relationships between countries. The goods have to be sent to other countries, that’s the essence of trading, that’s the essence of commerce, and it is important that you get an established base where the two countries, their entrepreneurs, the traders, the businessmen within the countries can concentrate some attention,” Hammond explained.

The Ghanaian Minister also expressed confidence that in due time, there will be seamless trading relations between the two countries.

Additionally, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Peter Ramsaroop noted that the establishment of the chamber is a great addition to both countries.

“Apart from agriculture, there is tourism…but also, they are leading [in] manufacturing, although they can help us to support the oil and gas industry, we are very interested in what they have done in manufacturing, even manufacturing cars. Guyana, with our President’s initiative, transformation project, reducing energy cost by 50%, we are going to be ready for manufacturing very, very quickly. So, the more we can learn, the more we can partner with global leaders in manufacturing, and I believe this is one way Ghana and Guyana could come together very quickly,” Ramsaroop explained.

In 2019, Guyana and Ghana signed a twoyear Memorandum of Understanding for trading relations and information sharing between the two states.

TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2023 |

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Woman dies in Camp & Church Streets smash-up

AKitty, Georgetown woman died on Sunday evening during a vehicular smash-up at the intersection of Camp and Church Streets, Georgetown.

Dead is Natisha Natalie Fernandes.

Reports are that the accident occurred at about 23:00h.

According to Police, the accident involved motor car PAD 8395, owned and driven by a 34-year-old man and motor car PTT 7041, owned and driven by a 63-year-old man. At the time of the accident, Ronda Holder, 30, and Fernandes, 30, of Kitty, Georgetown, were occupants of motor car PTT 7041.

Police said motor car PAD 8395 was proceeding east on the southern side of Church Street, approaching the intersection of Church and Camp Streets, where a traffic light is erected and was flashing red in his direction.

Police added that the driver of motor car PAD 8395 failed to stop at the intersection and collided to the right rear portion of motor car PTT 7041, which was proceeding south on the eastern drive lane of Camp Street.

As a result of the collision,

both vehicles were damaged extensively.

The driver and occupants of motor car PTT 7041 were transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Unfortunately, Fernandes succumbed to her injuries while receiving medical attention. Her body is at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Holder and the 63-year-old

driver are currently receiving medical attention at GPHC while the driver of PAD 8395 was escorted by the Police to the St Joseph Mercy Hospital to receive medical attention.

A breathalyser test was conducted on the driver of motor car PAD 8395 and the results showed 14% and 33% BAC and the driver of motor car PTT 7041 with the results showing 3% and 6% BAC.

City’s Solid Waste Management department cracking down on litterbugs

In keeping with President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision to transform the capital city into a scenic tourism destination, as well as to improve the sanitary and environmental conditions countrywide, the Solid Waste Management department of the City Council has begun clamping down on persons guilty of littering.

This was disclosed during the nationwide cleanup exercise on Saturday last, by Director of Solid Waste Management, Walter Narine, who stated that the enforcement is being conducted in collaboration with the Police. “We have a Police unit coming out here every day to arrest persons. Not only that, but you also have a lot of business people paying homeless people to dispose of their garbage. And as you know, that is a way of earning a living from them, so they just dispose of it anywhere,” Narine is quoted in a DPI report as saying.

He noted that for January, some 27 persons were arrested, with one person sentenced to six months’ community service for the offence.

“So, this is a continuous

exercise that we want not only City Council, but civil society to be a part of. If you see somebody littering, you have to report it. We have our numbers out. Just call us, and we will ensure that they are arrested. We have to cut out this scourge in society, and we all have to be patriotic about where we’re living, and we have to become cognisant of the environment we live in,” he urged.

According to the DPI report, the Director also addressed the issue of litter being thrown from public and private transportation, pointing out that when such an offence is committed, both the driver and offender

are arrested.

And if the offender cannot be identified, the driver is arrested. As such, he urged drivers to ensure that their vehicles are equipped with receptacles to prevent passengers from littering.

Further, Narine stated that the department is looking to collaborate with the Ministry of Education, to conduct educational sessions in schools to emphasise the need for persons to refrain from littering, and educate children on the laws and penalties surrounding the offence.

He urged community leaders to also ensure that they correctly dispose of their waste and take responsibility for the appearance of their surroundings.

“We are proud Guyanese, and we need to care for our environment. We tend to blame everyone else, but as community leaders and community representatives, we can come out once a week, or once a month to clean up our environment. And I think if we start from the community level, these exercises will move on to more meaningful enhancement projects,” Narine stressed.

Dead: Natisha Natalie Fernandes

Director of Solid Waste Management at the City Council, Walter Narine

3 days of national mourning declared; condolences pour in after Mahdia tragedy

ed unimaginable pain on the affected families. The Commission shares their pain and sorrow and offers its deepest condolences on their tragic loss and trusts that they be strengthened during this extremely difficult time and be able to find some comfort from the outpouring of support from Guyanese and others.”

In light of the tragic occurrence on Sunday night in Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), where 19 young lives were lost to a vicious inferno; a national mourning period was announced amidst an outpouring of messages of support and condolences, as families mourn the loss of their loved ones.

On the heels of his visit to the region on Monday, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced a three-day national mourning period for the country, that begun on Monday afternoon at 16:00h. As such, all flags in

Meanwhile, Guyana’s First Lady, Arya Ali, was amongst the first to voice her despair, sympathising with the parents who tragically lost their children in the blaze.

“In this very difficult time for our nation, my thoughts and prayers are with the survivors and the 19 little ones who tragically lost their lives in the fire at the Mahdia dormitory this morning (Monday). As a parent, I will do what I know every parent in Guyana will do, which is hug our children a little tighter today and remind

of Mahdia, Region Eight and all Guyanese.

“We wish all those that are injured a speedy recov-

In similar faith, the Guyana Marketing and Services Association shared, “With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we were utterly devastated this morning upon receiving the heart-wrenching news of the horrific fire that mercilessly consumed the Mahdia Secondary School’s Female Dormitory. The flames, fuelled by unfathomable tragedy, ruthlessly snuffed out the lives of 20 vibrant and promising young Guyanese

The association joins in sympathy with all Guyanese, as we share in this collective sadness and mourn this national tragedy. The community of Mahdia is close to our hearts; we offer our prayers

of the devastating fire earlier today that claimed the lives of young students of the Mahdia Secondary School in Mahdia, Guyana. Prime Minister, Dr the Honourable Keith Rowley, has been in direct communication with the President of Guyana, His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali, expressing condolences on the terrible loss of lives and has offered assistance when and if required,” A message from the TT Government articulated.

the country would be flown at half mast, commemorating the 19 lives lost at the female dorms of the Mahdia Secondary School.

“I ask that as a nation we utilise the next three days as three days of prayers for these children, their families and the community,” a saddened President Ali related.

The Head of State went on to add, “There are no words that can describe this magnitude of pain that our brothers and sisters are going through today…We wish this day had never occurred... This is a pain we must carry as a nation and as a family. It is a pain we must share together and support in our prayers.”

Honour the memories

them of how much we love them. But sadly, there are families who will not be able to do that today. And they need all of us right now. In the hard days to come, their community will need us to offer our support and to be our very best as Guyanese. We owe it to them,” the First Lady wrote.

The First Lady Ali added, “May we honour the memories of our little ones

ery and express our support and gratitude to the medical team and others who are engaged in the process of treating and helping the injured and hope there are no more fatalities. Special appreciation and thanks to our brave pilots and the Joint Services who played and continue to play a key role in the entire operation. We also wish to express grati-

students, leaving an indelible void in our hearts.

The weight of this unimaginable calamity bears down upon us with a profound sense of loss and despair. Each soul lost in this inferno represents a world of dreams, aspirations, and potential abruptly cut short. The magnitude of this tragedy is truly overwhelming, as the flickering flames de-

for the children of Mahdia. You will forever be in our hearts,” the Association uttered.

Support from Caricom nations

Further afield, Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Motley, using her social media handle, also shared a

On the other hand, the Twin Island MoE shared via social media, “It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we extend our deepest condolences to Guyana’s Education Ministry, the families, and the entire nation, on the devastating tragedy that took place at Mahdia Secondary School. We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss.

In moments like this, no words can truly express the

who are no longer with us even while we continue to pray for the survivors, their families, friends and communities.”

From the other side of the spectrum, the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) expressed its condolences to the families, relatives, friends, residents

tude to the people of Mahdia who worked assiduously to rescue the children trapped in the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory.”

Unimaginable pain

Further, the Ethnic Relations Commission added to the messages of condolences stating, “The Chairman and Commissioners of the Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), are collectively saddened and shocked at the deaths of the nineteen children who perished following a fire at their school’s dormitory in Mahdia, Region Eight.

“This tragedy has inflict-

voured not only their innocent lives but also shattered the hopes and futures that were intertwined with them.”

Given their close association with the mining town in which the tragedy struck, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) also expressed their sadness at the occurrence.

“The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association extends its deepest condolences to the family, relatives and friends of those who lost their lives in the tragic fire at the Mahdia school dorms and wish the survivors a speedy recovery.

message of bereavement.

Motley wrote via Twitter, “The news of the fire at the Mahdia Secondary School in Guyana, which claimed the lives of 19 children late last night, is truly a tragedy beyond words. To @ DrMohamedirfaa1 and the people of Guyana, I offer my sincere condolences, and offer my support during this difficult time.”

In addition, Trinidad and Tobago’s Government and Education Ministry also had words of support to share.

“The Government and People of Trinidad and Tobago stand with the Government and People of Guyana in the aftermath

depth of our sympathy for the families who have lost their beloved daughters, sisters, and friends. The loss of young lives is a loss for the future, and it is a pain that is shared by all of us in the education fraternity.”

Social workers, supplies made available

Meanwhile, other organisations such as the University of Guyana (UG) and the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), in addition to condolence messages, have extended their assistance to those affected.

President Dr Irfaan Ali announcing the country will observe three days of mourning

Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Motley

T&T Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley

The horrific tragedy

at Mahdia, Region 8

The horrific tragedy at Mahdia, Region 8

3 days of national mourning...

The CIOG shared that it made a donation to the survivors of the fire through the Civil Defence Commission.

The CIOG donated a large quantity of clothing, hand sanitisers, Lysol wipes, soap and footwear totalling $1.5 million.

“We trust that these items will be of support to the emergency care and need that is at hand currently. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved parents, families, friends and the school’s management and staff on the passing of a number of students who perished in the fire and for all the students who have experienced this tragedy and in a state of sadness, depression and trauma, we pray the Almighty grant them speedy recovery.

“We also share in the Government’s loss and encourage all to support in any way possible,” CIOG said.

On the other hand, the University of Guyana said it shares the grief and ex-

tends deep and sincere condolences on the loss of lives, property and trauma experienced in the Mahdia fire in the wee hours of Monday morning.

“UG’s Social Work Unit in the Faculty of Social Sciences is supporting the Ministry of Education’s Welfare Unit and has reached out to other stakeholders they are collaborating with for practicum to determine how we may support them. Members of the University Social Work Unit are set to accompany a Ministry of Education Welfare team. UG’s Social Work graduates in the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Health are on standby to travel.”

It added that UG’s College of Medical Sciences is also mobilising to lend additional medical support at the location so that there are no interrupted medical services including mental health nursing specialists as well as the Amerindian Studies Unit

FROM PAGE 11

in the Faculty of Education and Humanities.

In addition, the likes of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) are ready to lend support where needed.

“The Guyana Oil & Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) mourns with the families of those who perished in the fire at Mahdia. This is an extremely trying period for the entire community.

The Mahdia community’s recovery and healing are important to us at GOGEC and we are dedicated to rendering assistance by giving any essential help and resources. We will work closely with Government and all like-minded organisations to alleviate this pain and suffering to all those concerned,” the GOGEC wrote.

The Mahdia tragedy claimed the lives of 19 children on Sunday night with several still receiving medical attention at various institutions across the country. (Jemima Holmes)

Sale of carbon credits

First 13 Amerindian villages receive $187M

The first 13 Amerindian villages have received monies totalling $187 million, earned from the sale of carbon credits on May 18, which is intended to boost economic sustainability in these remote areas. Guyana signed a contract with Hess Corporation which will see the nation earning US$750 million for 30 per cent of its forest within a ten-year period. The country has earned US$150 million for the year 2023.

While 85 per cent is being invested in multi-community and national priorities identified by stakeholders during the seven-month consultation on the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, 15 per cent ($4.7 billion) is allocated towards Amerindian development.

This was revealed by the Office of the Vice President in a press release that welcomed the conclusion of the independent ART-TREES grievance process, which rejected the complaint made by the Amerindian People’s Association (APA), including the associated call by the APA for the suspension

of Guyana’s ART-TREES carbon credits.

Monies were disbursed after the villages completed their development plans that highlighted areas in need of investment.

“These include priorities as varied as building shade houses, improving local guesthouses for tourism, supporting cassava farming, providing craft classes, and purchasing village tractors,” the press release pointed out.

Some 242 Amerindian

communities are tasked with developing village plans and already 80 have completed this requirement in keeping with the standards required by the village-led process.

“In all cases, the village processes must culminate with a vote of approval from at least two-thirds of all adult villagers present at village meetings. All 242 communities have their own carbon credit bank accounts and finance committees chosen by villagers and

community members,” the missive further explained.

The release noted that now that the APA’s complaint has been rejected, the Government hopes that Amerindian families will be freed from worry that their expected benefits will be jeopardised.

The APA’s complaint was made without the proper knowledge or support of any Amerindian community in Guyana and even without the knowledge and support of any elected leader.

CDC donates to Mahdia fire victims at GPHC

Staff of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Monday donated a quantity of personal items to the Mahdia fire victims who are under critical care at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Hygiene products, clothing and other personal care items were delivered to aid the hospital’s ministrations. These items originated from

a combination of sources; donations from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and the CDC Volunteer Corps, and from the Commission’s storage.

Shannon Haynes, one of the nurses attached to the Burn Unit, indicated that such a donation was heartfelt and timely.

The CDC continues to render support to the town of Mahdia during this difficult time.

A nation mourns

Loss of so many young lives is an unimaginable tragedy – NTC

The National Toshaos Council expresses deepest condolences on the recent tragedy at the Mahdia Female Dormitory. With heavy hearts, we write to express our deepest condolences to the grieving families who have lost their beloved loved ones in the tragic fire incident at Mahdia Secondary School's female dormitory. This devastating incident has left our nation in shock and mourning, and we stand together in solidarity with the affected families during this incredibly difficult time.

The loss of so many young lives is an unimaginable tragedy that has deeply impacted the entire community. We extend our sympathies to the parents, siblings, friends, and relatives who

are experiencing immense grief and pain. May you find solace and strength in the support of your loved ones, the community, and the nation as a whole.

The students who perished in this tragic event had dreams and aspirations, and their untimely departure leaves an indelible void in our hearts. As a nation, it is our responsibility to honour their memory by ensuring that such incidents never

occur again. We must come together to identify the root causes of this tragedy and work towards implementing measures that prioritise the safety and well-being of our students.

It is crucial that we extend our support to the survivors, who will carry the physical and emotional scars of this tragedy throughout their lives. We encourage the Ministry of Education and relevant authorities to provide the necessary counselling, therapy, and support systems to help these young individuals heal and recover from this traumatic experience.

Our thoughts and prayers are with each and every person impacted by this heart-breaking incident.

IRO stands with grieving families

The members of Guyana Inter Religious Organisation (IRO) join with the nation and our international friends and supporters, to extend our sincerest condolences to all the family and relatives of those who have suffered loss and are grieving at this time.

We do not always understand the realities of life, however, we continue to trust that the Creator will provide the comfort and togetherness that we need to get through these trying times.

We pray also for those who are recovering and we ask that God would grant them speedy and satisfying recovery.

We pray for the leadership of Guyana, that God would show them how best to act in order to reduce the fallout of this tragedy.

We thank God for the wisdom, experience and willingness of the doctors, nurs-

es, firemen, pilots, Police, community members and all who were involved in the saving of lives. Shalom. Namaste. Was Salaam.

APA stands ready to assist the Government

We, at the Amerindian People’s Association (APA), are heartbroken to learn of the tragic fire that resulted in the deaths of 19 young children and injuries to several others at the Mahdia Secondary School’s Female Dormitory, Region 8. We join all Guyanese in mourning the deaths of Adanye Jerome, Tracil Thomas, Lisa Roberts, Delecia Edwards, Lorita Williams, Natalie Bellarmine, Arriana Edwards, Cleoma Simon, Subrina John, Martha Dandrade, Loreen Evans, Belnisa Evans, Mary Dandrade, Omerfia Edwin, Nickleen Robinson, Sherena Daniels, Eulander Carter, Andrea Roberts and Rita Jeffrey.

To their families, there is nothing we can say or do to ease the pain at this time but know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. The short legacies of those young

children will forever be etched in the memories of those they have impacted. Guyana is now poorer owing to this devastating loss.

To the survivors, we know the road to recovery will be a long one but know that the entire country is rooting for you and will support you.

We are aware that every effort is being made to bring relief to the bereaved families and support to those that are both traumatised and injured. We commend President Irfaan Ali and his Cabinet for springing into action and addressing the tragedy.

The APA stands ready to assist the Government and supporting agencies in whatever way it could.

It is important to note that while the secondary school is located in the township of Mahdia, it also housed students from Indigenous communities from the wider Region 8 area. The dormitory was housing for students from

villages outside of Mahdia and thus far, victims have been identified from the Indigenous communities of Micobie, Chenapou and Karisparu.

We are continuously monitoring the situation on the ground. Additionally, the APA calls on persons to desist from sharing images of the children’s burnt bodies and ask that the privacy of the families be respected. The sharing of images of the burnt bodies of the children does nothing but to further traumatise their families.

Today, Guyana lost what could have been 19 future leaders, leaving behind a void that can never be filled. Families are broken and all we can do is to pray for their healing. We hope that we use this tragedy to band together as one and pray for healing for the bereaved families and the safe recovery of those injured.

We mourn with the rest of Guyana.

flu cases in wild birds

Brazil declares 180-day animal health emergency amid avian

Brazil on Monday declared a state of animal health emergency for 180 days in response to the country's first-ever detection of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in wild birds, in a document signed by Agriculture Minister Carlos Favaro.

Infection by the H5N1 subtype of avian flu in wild birds does not trigger trade bans, based on guidelines of the World Organisation for Animal Health. However, a case of bird flu on a farm usually results in the entire flock being killed and can trigger trade restrictions from importing countries.

Brazil, the world's biggest chicken meat exporter with US$9.7 billion in sales last year, has so far confirmed eight cases of the H5N1 in wild birds, including seven in Espirito Santo state and one in Rio de Janeiro state.

The country's Agriculture Ministry said

later on Monday it has created an emergency operations centre to coordinate, plan and evaluate "national actions related to avian influenza."

Though Brazil's main meat-producing states are in the south, the Government is on alert after the confirmed cases, as avian flu in wild birds has been followed by transmission to commercial flocks in some countries.

Shares in Brazil-based

BRF SA (BRFS3.SA), the world's biggest chicken exporter, were up 3.6 per cent before the government announcement and ended the day 0.5 per cent lower.

Over the weekend, the Health Ministry said samples of 33 suspected cases of avian influenza in humans in Espirito Santo, where Brazil confirmed the first cases in wild birds last week, came back negative for the H5N1 subtype. (Reuters)

IMF sees slower Dominican Republic growth at 4% in 2023

The Dominican Republic's economy is expected to grow around four per cent in 2023, the IMF said on Monday, slowing from the 4.9 per cent rise in 2022.

The economy is "one of the most dynamic and resilient in the Western Hemisphere over the last two decades," the IMF said in a statement, crediting the island nation's "sound" post-pandemic reforms.

"The strong recovery began moderating at the end of 2022 in response to tighter global financial conditions, lower global

demand, and the appropriate withdrawal of policy stimulus, contributing to inflation's convergence to its target," the IMF said following a visit to the

Dominican Republic.

The fund said the economic outlook for the Dominican Republic is positive, though subject to high uncertainty. (Reuters)

British woman held with J$9.5 million worth of cocaine at airport gets 12 months

ABritish woman was sentenced to 12 months in prison by the St James Parish Court for attempting to smuggle four and a half pounds of cocaine onto a flight to England.

Ashanta Ferguson, who was arrested in November of last year, was sentenced on Monday by presiding parish judge Kaysha GrantPryce after pleading guilty to possession, dealing, and attempting to export cocaine.

Ferguson's Attorney, Charles Williams, asserted during the sentencing hearing that the defendant had been tricked into smuggling the illegal substance by a man with whom she was romantically involved.

Williams further argued that his client had not wasted the court’s time.

“She came for two weeks to spend time with her father, and while there she met a young man for whom she got pregnant. On the way to the airport, the

Colombia suspends ceasefire with Estado Mayor Central rebels in some areas

Colombia's Government on Monday suspended a national ceasefire with the Estado Mayor Central (EMC) armed group in some provinces, following the murder of four Indigenous teenagers.

The move to reactivate military offensives against the EMC in the country's southeast is the latest hiccup in leftist President Gustavo Petro's efforts to make peace or surrender deals with armed groups to end Colombia's six-decade conflict, which has killed at least 450,000 people.

The EMC was founded by dissident former members of the now-demobilised FARC rebels, who reject a 2016 peace deal signed by that group.

"The current bilateral ceasefire with this armed group in the provinces of Meta, Caqueta, Guaviare and Putumayo is suspended and all offensive operations are reactivated," the government said in a statement. "The decision will be effective in the next 72 hours."

The ceasefire with the EMC has been effective in other provinces, where it will remain in place, the Government said, adding that it remained willing to hold talks with the group.

The four minors were forcibly recruited by the group and then shot dead when they attempted to escape, Indigenous groups have said.

In its own statement on

Monday morning, the EMC said the armed forces had violated the bilateral deal and the Government's desire for change had been seen "only in speeches and promises".

The EMC has an estimated 3,500 members, including nearly 2200 combatants, and operates in 23 of Colombia's 32 provinces, according to security force documents.

Petro announced ceasefires with the EMC, fellow FARC dissidents Segunda Marquetalia and the Clan del Golfo and Sierra Nevada SelfDefence Forces crime gangs at the New Year, but suspended the halt in hostilities with the Clan del Golfo in March.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Mexico to announce work visa programme for Central Americans

Mexico will present a programme this week to give Central Americans temporary visas to work on public infrastructure projects, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Monday.

Such projects require more people such as welders, iron-workers and engineers, Lopez Obrador told his regular daily news conference.

"We need a workforce for these projects, especially if it's skilled labour," Lopez Obrador said. "We will guarantee them one year."

He did not provide details on how many visas would be issued, or for which projects.

Lopez Obrador has long pushed for investment in Central America to stem the migration of thousands

of people every year fleeing poverty and violence in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador.

He has also sought to boost development in the impoverished southern region of Mexico, which sits near the border with Guatemala.

Lopez Obrador's flagship projects underway include a freight rail line meant to create a trade route between Mexico's Pacific and Gulf coasts, and a tourist train linking destinations around the Yucatan Peninsula. (Reuters)

High-level energy conference in Barbados

young man gave her something and asked her to take it up [to England] for him, but whether or not you are academically smart, you still have to have common sense and you cannot say you did not know,” said Williams.

The accused woman's involvement in cocaine trafficking left Judge Grant Pryce perplexed, given her position as a peer counsellor in Britain.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Energy transition investments and finance matters will soon take centre stage, when the Government of Barbados and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), through the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative, cohost a high-level three-day conference.

The IRENA-Caribbean Cooperation for Fostering Energy Transition Investments and Finance will take place from May 30 to June 1, at Hilton Barbados Resort.

It is also being held in partnership with the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency.

The objective of the meeting is to promote an environment conducive to energy transition investments, and facilitate access to affordable and appropriate forms of finance for the implementation of energy transition projects in the Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Key stakeholders in the Region will gather to examine how to accelerate energy transition investments, moving beyond pledges to action and closing the financing gap. These will include Government officials, policymakers, regulators, the private sector, project developers and financing partners.

The forum will also address issues pertaining to

the development and sustainability of a robust, feasible and bankable renewable energy project pipeline, which responds directly to the needs of the country, and generates interest and investment.

Some of the topics to be discussed during the conference are: The Status of the Caribbean Energy Transition –Priorities and Investment Needs; Creating Enabling Frameworks Conducive to Energy Transition Investments in Caribbean SIDS, and Project Development and Scaling-Up of Renewable Energy Investment in the Caribbean, with the focus on developers and financiers.

(Excerpt from Nation News)

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador

Around The World OIL NEWS

Russia battles cross-border raid by what Ukraine calls Russian resistance

Oil rises 1% as supplies shrink, demand seen higher

Oil prices edged up 1% on Monday with a rise in US gasoline futures and forecasts for oil demand to rise in the second half of the year, while supplies from Canada and OPEC+ declined in recent weeks.

Oil prices, however, were held in check by a stronger dollar and as the market waited for news on the US debt ceiling talks.

Brent futures for July delivery rose 41 cents, or 0.5%, to settle at US$75.99 a barrel.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for June delivery rose 44 cents, or 0.6%, to settle at US$71.99 per barrel, while the more active July contract, which is now the new front-month, rose 0.5% to settle at US$72.05.

US gasoline futures were the biggest price mover, gaining 2.8% to a one-month high of US$2.6489 per gallon.

"Gasoline powered today’s upside oil price advance with ... the approach of the Memorial Day holiday," analysts at energy consulting firm Ritterbusch and Associates said in a note.

The US Memorial Day holiday marks the start of the peak summer driving season.

The International Energy Agency (IEA), meanwhile, warned of a looming oil shortage in the second half of the year when demand is expected to eclipse supply by almost 2 million barrels per day (bpd), the Paris-based agency said in its latest monthly report.

A senior executive at Vitol said Asia will lead oil demand growth of around 2 million bpd in the second half of the year, an increase that could potentially lead to a shortage of supply and drive up prices.

Last week, both oil benchmarks gained about 2% in their first weekly rise in five after wildfires shut in large amounts of crude supply in Alberta, Canada.

The impact of voluntary production cuts by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies including Russia, known as OPEC+, is also being felt after going into effect this month.

Oil production in Iraq's Kurdistan region continued to drop as export flows to Turkey's Ceyhan port show few signs of restarting after a stoppage that has lasted almost two months.

Total exports of crude and oil products from OPEC+ plunged by 1.7 million bpd by May 16, JP Morgan said, adding that Russian oil exports will likely fall by late May.

On Saturday, the Group of Seven (G7) nations pledged at its annual leaders' meeting to enhance efforts to counter Russia's evasion of the price caps on its oil and fuel exports.

The G7 meeting, however, upset China, the world's biggest oil importer. State-backed Chinese newspaper Global Times called the G7 an "anti-China workshop."

The G7 singled out China on issues including Taiwan, nuclear arms, economic coercion and human rights abuses.

"Crude prices are in no man’s land as energy traders look to see what happens with both debt ceiling talks and with US and China tensions," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at data and analytics firm OANDA.

The US dollar rose against a basket of other currencies, holding just below a two-month high, as investors waited on fresh signals on whether the US Federal Reserve is likely to continue hiking interest rates and watched for news on the US debt ceiling.

A stronger dollar can weigh on oil demand by making the fuel more expensive for holders of other currencies.

US Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari said it was a "close call" whether he would vote to raise interest rates or pause the central bank's tightening cycle when it meets next month.

Higher interest rates boost borrowing costs, which can slow the economy and reduce oil demand. (Reuters)

Russia said on Monday it was battling a cross-border incursion by saboteurs who burst through the frontier from Ukraine, in what appeared to be one of the biggest attacks of its kind since the war began last year.

The Governor of Russia's Belgorod region said a Ukrainian "sabotage group" had entered Russian territory in the Graivoron district bordering Ukraine and was being repelled.

But the Ukrainian outlet Hromadske cited Ukrainian military intelligence as saying two armed Russian opposition groups, the Liberty of Russia Legion and the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), both consisting of Russian citizens, had car-

An

ried out the attack.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russian President Vladimir Putin had been informed and that work was under way to drive out the "saboteurs", the state-run RIA Novosti news agency reported.

Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that the Russian army, border guards, presidential guards and the FSB security service were involved in the operation. He said at least eight people had been wounded and

three houses and an administrative building damaged.

The Telegram channel Baza, which has links to Russia's security services, said there were indications of fighting in three settlements along the main road leading into Russia. The "Open Belgorod" Telegram channel said power and water had been cut off to several villages. Reuters was unable to verify the reports, which dried up late in the day as Gladkov imposed a special regime allowing authorities to clamp down on movement and communications. The Ukrainian military was not immediately available for comment.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Grandad's grenade kills US man and injures teens

An Indiana man was killed and his two children injured after a hand grenade found in a grandfather's belongings exploded, say Police.

The blast happened on Saturday evening in Lake of the Four Seasons, a community about 140 miles (225km) north-west of Indianapolis.

Police believe someone pulled the pin on the device.

The father died and his 14-year-old son and 18-year-

old daughter suffered shrapnel wounds.

Both teenagers were taken to hospital. Their condition was unclear.

In a statement posted to Facebook, the Lake County Sheriff's Department said that responding officers found the 47-year-old victim fatally wounded at his home. He was later declared dead and identified as Bryan Niedert.

A bomb squad was called

Nigeria commissions Dangote Refinery in bid to end fuel imports

Nigeria commissioned the Dangote Refinery on Monday amid hopes of transforming the country into a net exporter of petroleum products, but analysts said securing crude supplies could delay achieving full production this year.

The Administration of outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari sees the refinery as the answer to persistent fuel shortages in Nigeria – including most recently in the run-up to February’s disputed presidential election.

Nigeria spent US$23.3bn last year on petroleum product imports and consumes around 33 million litres (8.7 million gallons) of petrol daily. The Dangote Refinery has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.

The plant plans to export the surplus petrol, turning Africa’s biggest oil producer into an export hub for petroleum products. It also plans to export diesel, according to Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, who funded the refinery’s construction.

The massive petrochem-

ical complex, said to be the world’s largest single-train refinery, cost US$19bn to build after being delayed for almost a decade – above initial estimates of between US$12bn and US$14bn –and has outstanding debt of around US$2.75bn, according to Nigeria’s Central Bank Governor.

The complex also has a 435-megawatt power station, a deep seaport and a fertiliser unit.

Speaking at the commission ceremony, Dangote said the priority was to ramp up production to ensure the refinery could fully satisfy Nigerian demand and eliminate “the tragedy of import dependency”.

The ceremony was attended by President Buhari.

Dangote expects to begin refining crude in June, but London-based research consultancy Energy Aspects said that commissioning was an intricate process and that it expects operations to start later this year, reaching 50-70 per cent next year, with a staggered process of other units into 2025. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

to the scene to check if any other explosives were at the house.

Authorities have not released any more information on the grenade or why it was in the grandfather's belongings.

While deaths from unexploded ordnance are extremely rare in the US, they are not unheard of.

In 2020, a 12-year-old boy in Virginia was killed when a Second World War

hand grenade bought at a local flea market exploded. According to experts, the vast majority of grenades and other ordnance found in private homes are inert and safe to handle.

Last year the FBI warned: "Some families of ageing US war veterans are finding unexpected, and highly dangerous, souvenirs among their loved ones' belongings - ticking time bombs." (Reuters)

Pakistan in uncharted territory as army seeks to vanquish Imran Khan

Pakistan's military has struck back after an unprecedented challenge to its hegemony by the popular Imran Khan and his followers, but the nuclear-armed nation remains caught between its most powerful institution and the man who was once a firm ally.

Khan's arrest on corruption charges earlier this month, which he says was at the behest of the generals, led to violent nationwide protests, attacks on military buildings and on the homes of senior officers, allegedly by the former Prime Minister's supporters.

There has never been that kind of challenge to Pakistan's military, which has held sway over the country since independence in 1947 with a mixture of fear and respect. It has been in power for three of those decades and has wielded extraordinary influence even with a civilian Government in office.

The 1971 fall of Dhaka in what was then East Pakistan and the birth of Bangladesh after defeat by arch-enemy India has been the lowest point for Pakistan's military since 1947.

Khan was released by court order two days after his arrest, but his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party now faces the ire of the military.

Thousands of supporters have been arrested, including Khan's top aides. The Government has said those accused of being involved in attacks on its installations will be tried by military courts - a platform typically reserved for enemies of the state.

With Pakistan also grappling with a devastating economic crisis, a showdown between the military and its most popular political leader could push the nation of 220 million to the brink of chaos.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

aerial view shows destruction in the frontline town of Bakhmut, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Donetsk region, Ukraine, in this handout picture released on May 21, 2023

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Be aware of what happens at home. Discuss your concerns and figure out how to resolve domestic issues. Make it clear where you stand, what you want to do and how you intend to help others.

(March 21-April 19)

It's time for a change. Don't wait for things to fix themselves when it's up to you to initiate positive changes. Nurture meaningful relationships. Romance is favored.

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

Travel, education and communication will lead you to your destination of choice. Stop analyzing and start doing what matters most to you. A change in how you handle money will pay off.

Assisting others will help you put your life in perspective. Reach out to others, and you'll discover suggestions and remedies. Learn as you go and practice what you learn. Love is on the rise.

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Show interest in what others do, but do things your way. Being true to yourself will satisfy your ego and ensure you stay in control of the outcome. Maintain integrity and remain within budget.

A change of plans will lead to valuable information. You can help others by using what you learn and incorporating it into your daily routine. Time is on your side.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Keep your feelings and intentions to yourself. An open mind will help you find new ideas that encourage positive changes. Don't let your emotions prevent you from reaching your dreams.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Positive change is up to you. Evaluate your situation and what will make you happy. The changes you implement will help you energize your creative spirit. Romance and travel are favored.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Put more thought into dealing with medical, financial or contractual issues, and you'll find a way to eliminate what is no longer beneficial. Consolidating debt will ease stress.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Get busy checking off your to-do list. Free up time to do something with a loved one later in the day. Home improvements will make your downtime more enjoyable. Romance is favored.

Think twice before you listen to someone. Choose to do what suits you best. Focus on home, health and happiness, and take the road that intrigues you the most.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Accentuate what you know and do best, and you'll be happy with the results. Consider how you can use your skills to bring in additional cash. Updating your image will boost your confidence.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Formidable CSK in Gujarat Titans' way of 2nd straight IPL final

Big picture: Titans and CSK – similar yet different

It is no coincidence that Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings, teams that have built their campaigns around continuity, consistency in selection and role clarity, have earned the right to a second chance by finishing in the top two.

MS Dhoni's leadership traits are something Hardik Pandya, his opposite number, has deeply embodied over time. The backing of misfiring seniors, handholding junior players, encouraging the uncapped, boosting morale of players on the bench are all characteristics of a popular leader for whom the team would go the extra mile.

Hardik's handling of Vijay Shankar, once seen as his competitor, or young Noor Ahmad and Josh Little, to cite a few examples, has been as exemplary as Dhoni's handling of

Ajinkya Rahane, Tushar Deshpande, or Matheesha Pathirana.

With the bat, Vijay is enjoying his best year at the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the backing he has seldom received elsewhere. Mohit Sharma's journey from a net bowler, who swallowed his ego to sharpen his skills last year, to being one of the key bowlers this season is also a result of the Captain's backing.

Rahane's career appeared to have hit a dead end until he linked up with CSK. An injury to Ben Stokes gave him a foot in the door. Five games in, he broke the doors down with a batting approach seldom seen earlier. Now, as he gears up for the play-offs, Rahane's career has received an unlikely second, or maybe third, wind with the prospects of being a

World Test champion looming.

Shivam Dube's journey from an inconsistent all-rounder to an on-demand six hitter against spin or Deshpande's evolution from an erratic seamer riddled with no-ball problems and consistency to a gun striker are all examples of players thriving under the freedom and backing Dhoni has given them.

Today's Qualifier 1 will pit these two similar yet very different teams against each other in what promises to be a blockbuster clash. CSK will enjoy more than a slight edge, given they'll have the home advantage emphatically by their side. The Chennai fans will have one more chance to celebrate their larger-than-life icon, their talismanic leader as a place in the final is a step away.

Titans will quickly have

to shake off weariness from their final league fixture against RCB that went past midnight. A long road trip to the airport and the subsequent processes to board will be perhaps longer than the flying time to Chennai itself. To do this all in the space of a few hours, knowing there's another game to look forward to the next evening will no doubt be another test for the table-toppers. That they've made it this far for a second straight season is as much credit to the team as it is to the management. Now for the opportunity to be only the second team, after CSK in 2011 and 2012, to have a second straight crack at a home final in their second year of existence. It can't get bigger than that.

Team news: Will Hardik bowl?

Hardik hasn't bowled in three games now. When he last bowled in a game on May 7 against LSG, he didn't complete his quota. Against RCB, without Hardik the sixth bowler, Yash Dayal and Mohit conceded 93 off their eight overs. If Hardik isn't bowling, they might require either Dasun Shanaka or Rahul Tewatia to chip in, depending on conditions in Chennai.

Little, who featured in eight of Titans' first 10 games, is back in India after international duty with Ireland and could replace Dayal in the side. If Titans go down that route, Abhinav Manohar is likely to return

in place of Shanaka. CSK don't believe in making too many changes, so expect them to go unchanged.

Impact Player Strategy

Titans have mostly used Shubman Gill or Vijay Shankar as Impact Players when they bat. With Gill set to play the WTC final within a week of the IPL finishing, it's perhaps prudent to not expose him to potential on-field injuries. That said, Vijay gives them an additional bowling option, if required. However, he hasn't been called in to bowl a single over so far this season. With the ball, one of them will likely be substituted for Mohit. (ESPNcricinfo)

Real file hate crime complaint after Vinicius targeted by racist abuse

Real Madrid say racism directed at Vinicius Junior constitutes a ‘hate crime’ and have filed a complaint with the Spanish State Attorney General’s Office.

Brazil forward Vinicius was the subject of an alleged racist attack during Real’s 1-0 LaLiga defeat at Valencia on Sunday.

The game was paused after the break as Vinicius pointed out to the referee those who were allegedly abusing him in the stands at the Mestalla – and the 22-year-old later took to social media to say racism is ‘normal’ in LaLiga.

“Real Madrid CF shows its strongest revulsion and condemns the events that took place yesterday against our player Vinicius Junior,” the club said in a strongly-worded statement on Monday.

“These facts constitute a direct attack on the coexistence model of our social and democratic state of law.

“Real Madrid considers that such attacks also constitute a hate crime, for which reason it has filed the corresponding complaint with the State Attorney

General’s Office, specifically with the prosecutor’s office against hate crimes and discrimination, so that the facts can be investigated and clear responsibilities.

“Article 124 of the Spanish Constitution establishes the functions of the public prosecutor’s office to promote the action of justice in defence of legality and the rights of citizens and the public interest.

“For this reason, and given the seriousness of the events that occurred, Real Madrid has turned to the State Attorney General’s

Office, without prejudice to its appearance as a private prosecution in the proceedings that are being initiated.”

In a statement on Instagram, Vinicius – who was sent off for violent conduct in added time of Real’s defeat following an altercation with striker Hugo Duro – said: “It wasn’t the first time, not the second and not the third. Racism is normal in LaLiga.

“The competition thinks it’s normal, so does the Federation and the opponents encourage it. I am so

sorry.

“The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano (Ronaldo) and (Lionel) Messi, today belongs to the racists.

“A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and I love, but which accepted to export the image to the world from a racist country.

“Sorry for the Spaniards who do not agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists.

“And unfortunately with everything that happens on a weekly basis, I have no

way to defend. I agree. But I’m strong and will go to the end against the racists. Even though it’s far from here.”

LaLiga President Javier Tebas responded to Vinicius’ post on Sunday by accusing the forward of “criticising and insulting” the league.

In another tweet on Monday, Tebas said: “Neither Spain nor @LaLiga are racist. It is very unfair to say this.

“How @LaLiga we denounce and fight racism with all rigidity within our competences. This season there were 9 cases of racist insults (8 of them for insults against @vinijr)

“We always identify the violators and take the complaint to the legislating bodies. It doesn’t matter that they are few, they are relentless.

“We cannot allow the image of a competition that is about the symbol of peoples union to be tarnished, where more than 200 players are of black origin in 42 clubs that receive in each round the respect and affection of the fans, being the racism an extremely specific case (9 complaints) that we

are going to eliminate.”

Valencia released a statement on their club website condemning what happened and confirming they will investigate what happened.

Former England and Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand took to Instagram in support of Vinicius and questioned player protection.

“Bro you need protecting….who is protecting Vinicius Junior in Spain??” Ferdinand posted. “He receives a red card after being choked and receiving racial abuse during the game… wtf.

“How many times do we need to see this young man subjected to this s**t?? I see pain, I see disgust, I see him needing help… and the authorities don’t do s**t to help him.

“People need to stand together and demand more from the authorities that run our game.

“No one deserves this, yet you are allowing it. There needs to be a unified approach to this otherwise it will be swept under the carpet AGAIN.” (Sportsmax)

Defending champions Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings will battle for a spot in the IPL final

Oceaneering U14 Indoor Hockey League…

Cummings Lodge impress on Day 2

The second day of the Oceaneering U14 Indoor Hockey League held on Friday, May 19 at St Stanislaus College saw strong performances by first-time participants Cummings Lodge Secondary School (CLSS).

With Cummings Lodge entering two girls’ teams in their first-ever competition, it was the CLSS Samurais who tasted their first victory with a defeat of Richard Ishmael Secondary School by 8 to 1. All eight of the Samurais’ goals were

CWI Coaching Education Course concludes

scored by the standout female player of the day, Sarysha Phillips. It was the CLSS Scouts’ turn next, and they also came out victorious by edging past North Ruimveldt Multilateral by 2-0 and returned later to defeat Richard Ishmael (RISS Top Shelf Titans) by 4-2. Keitana Percival was the outstanding player for the Scouts and scored two goals in each match. Kadence Belony, meanwhile, scored all six goals for the GCC Challengers to give them an easy victory over Hikers Junior

Jets. In the boys’ competition, YMCA Old Fort, led by an eight goal tally by Richard Marques, dominated the RISS Blade Running 10-0. The GCC Outlaws, meanwhile, had their hands full against the SHC Minions, and narrowly escaped with a 3-2 victory in one of the most exciting matches of the afternoon.

The league will pause next Friday owing to the Independence Day holiday and continues Friday, June 2 at Marian Academy. –

Point standings: Girls’ Competition: CLSS Scouts – 9 points

GCC Challengers – 4

SHC Sensations –3

CLSS Samurais – 3

RISS Top Shelf Titans – 1

Hikers Junior Jets – 0

Multi – 0

Boys’ Competition: GCC Outlaws – 6

YMCA Old Fort – 3 SHC Minions – 3

GCC Pitbulls – 0 Multi – 0

RISS Blade Running – 0

EDFA NAMILCO “Flour Power” U17…

Buxton & Haslington lead the league

up Delray Benjamin’s winner in the 53rd minute.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) wrapped up its Coaching Education Courses at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence on Sunday, May 21, 2023. The courses commenced with the CWI Level 2 Coaching Course on Thursday, May 18, 2023, and the CWI Level 1 Coaching Course on Friday, May 19, 2023.

The CWI Level 2 Coaching Certification Course – which was conducted from May 18, 2023, to May 21, 2023 – had 23 candidates, including Ravi Rampaul, Anthony Bramble, and Assad Fudadin. Two females, Nadine Smith and Karishma Ramnauth, participated in the same course. The Coach Developers for this Level 2 Course were Ryerson Bhagoo, Keshava Rampaul, and Ryan Hercules.

The CWI Level 2 Coaching Certificate is expected to be used for training at the Senior Club level, Female and Male Under-19 Regional Tournaments, Female and Male Under-17 Regional Tournaments, and Female and Male Under-15 Regional Tournaments, Upper Schools’ District Cricket (eg: cricket training and competitions for Lower 6 and Upper 6 forms, and vocational schools for youths older than fifth form age), and girls’ preparations camps. The certified Coaches at this level are generally referred to as CWI Representative Coaches.

The CWI Level 1 Coaching Certification Course, which was held at

GNS, Providence from May 19, 2023, to May 21, 2023, had 25 candidates, including national female player Erva Giddings. Two other females, Rhonda Jones and Sonia Benn, participated. The Coach Developers were Brendon Ramlal and Junie Mitcham. They were ably assisted by the GCB’s Territorial Development Officer, Colin Stuart.

The CWI Level 1 Coaching Certificate is expected to be used for training at the Junior Club level, at the community level involving adolescents playing the game of cricket, primary to middle school competition (first to fifth form of secondary and high schools), as well as camps. The certified Coaches at this level are generally referred to as CWI Competition Coaches.

The CWI Coaching Education Courses provide individuals with an opportunity to learn and develop contemporary coaching philosophies and techniques that will allow them to thrive in the training and competition environments from Under-11 to senior-level cricket activities.

Further, the CWI Foundation Coaching Certificate is expected to be used for entry-level training activities for children ages 6 to 11, including primary school cricket. The certified Coaches at this level are generally referred to as the CWI Foundation Coaches.

Additionally, the CWI Level 3 Coaching Certificate is expected to be used for training and competition for West

Indies senior teams, West Indies A and B Teams, including President XI matches and training assignments, franchise cricket, CPL matches and training assignments, and West Indies Aged Group teams.

The certified Coaches at this level are generally referred to as CWI HighPerformance Coaches.

Apart from the need for successful participation and/or assessment for certification at all levels in the CWI coaching education pathway, individuals are required to have a First Aid Certificate, Child Protection Certificate, and a valid Police Clearance for the applicable certification.

In relation to the CWI Coaching Education Courses which concluded on Sunday, May 21, 2023, Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) President Bissoodyal Singh expressed his happiness, and that of the GCB Executives, in the interest shown by the participants of both the CWI Level 1 and 2 courses. He indicated that the GCB was of the view that the information shared on recommended coaching approaches would aid the knowledge base and “know-how” of the Coaches. Further, he specified, that the enhanced capacities of the Coaches will enable them to effectively intervene in the growth of the players, in a manner that acknowledges their unique characteristics, and creativity, to build on the special West Indian flare and glamor of playing the lovely game of cricket.

Following three rounds of exciting football in the East Demerara Football Association (EDFA)

NAMILCO “Flour Power” Under-17 football tournament, Buxton United FC and Haslington FC sit joint top of the points table with

in the first clash of a double-header while Dynamics FC made light work of Victoria Kings 5-1 in the feature encounter.

Ryan Wharton led the charge for Dynamics with a hat-trick (18th, 38th & 43rd minutes) while Kelvin Richardson also got on the

On that same match day, it was like Deja vu as Buxton Stars registered a similar come-from-behind 2-1 win in the match against Victoria Kings. All three goals came in the second half with Alex Mario giving the losers the lead in the 48th minute before Compton Hope (50th minute) and Deshawn McPherson (68th minute) scored to win it for Buxton at home.

six points each and an identical goal difference.

Both teams would have had the opportunity to extend their good run of form yesterday, but the inclement weather did not allow for play to continue at the Buxton Community Centre Ground that hosted the previous two match days.

On Saturday, Ann's Grove FC played to a goalless draw against Melanie

scoresheet with a brace in the 14th and 42nd minutes. Kennard Halley scored the consolation goal for Victoria Kings in the 29th minute.

Last Tuesday, Haslington completed a good come-from-behind 2-1 win against Beterverwagting Triumph.

Jaden Harris gave BV the short-lived lead in the 25th minute before Akin Baynes equalised in the 29th to set

Kelvin Richardson (left) and Ryan Wharton of Dynamics FC

Coach Developers Junie Mitcham and Brendon Ramlal seating in front of Assistant Coach Developer Colin Stuart, and they are flanked by CWI Level Coaching Course Candidates

Alimited number of tickets will be on sale online exclusively to Visa customers for the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) knockout stages from 09:00h ECT, today, May 23, 2023, the organisation announced on Monday. This exclusive Visa pre-sale window will be open until May 30 or until this limited allocation of tickets has been sold out.

The tickets will be on sale at www.cplt20.com and

during this pre-sale window only Visa will be accepted as payment.

Details on tickets going on general sale for both the knockout and group stages will follow in the coming weeks.

First started in 2013, the Republic CPL is a franchise-based T20-format cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life –dramatic cricket and a vibrant carnival atmosphere.

The broadcast and digital viewership in 2022 was 721.8 million to make it one of the most watched leagues in world cricket. Jamaica Tallawahs are the current Republic Bank CPL champions, and the other competing teams are Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, Saint Lucia Kings, and Trinbago Knight Riders.

The 2023 tournament will run from August 16 to September 24.

Bajan, T&T boxing teams to train in Guyana for CAC Games

The Land of Many Waters is on the fast track towards becoming the home of boxing training camps and seminars in the near future, with the first step towards this achievement being made next month.

From June 3 to June 13, a five-member Barbadian contingent will visit Guyana for precisely this purpose.

The team of four pugilists and one trainer from the Land of the Flying Fish have selected Guyana to serve as the base for their preparatory phase for the impending Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games.

By the same token, a vastly larger Trinidad and Tobago contingent will also be utilising Guyana’s training facilities and coaches during the month of July to prepare for the prestigious Caribbean Schoolboys and Junior championships in August on local shores. Further details on the respective contingents will be disclosed at a later time.

Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) President Steve Ninvalle stated that the decision of Barbados and subsequently Trinidad and Tobago to utilise the expertise, facil-

ities, and personnel of the Association as part of their regimen for the CAC Games is a testament to the historic profile, portfolio, and pedigree that have been attained by the entity within the English-speaking Caribbean.

The GBA boss went on to explain, “This is a momentous moment for Guyanese boxing. The fact that nations have identified Guyana as a base for the staging of training camps is indicative of the advancements the Association has made and achieved in the discipline, both from a personnel and infrastructure standpoint. We now possess two three-star coaches, a Cuban trainer, and quali-

ty training partners in the form of world-ranked boxers, which will be utilised by our visitors. This camp is in recognition of our collective labour to advance boxing which is not a random event.”

“Guyana is the leading light in the Englishspeaking Caribbean, our results are evidence of such a status, and our Caribbean brothers and sisters have opted to tap directly into that heritage and culture of achievements. What Jamaica is for our track and field and football athletes, we strive and envision to match for Caribbean boxing, especially in the English-speaking region,” Ninvalle concluded.

Santos defeat Milerock in Round 2 opener

…League continues tonight

The Guyana Football Federation’s National Training Centre (NTC), Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was ground zero for an entertaining battle on Sunday, as the second round of the KFC-sponsored Elite League kicked off.

On their way to a second victory and three more points in the recently-commenced fifth edition of the competition, Santos Football Club (FC) thumped Linden’s Milerock Football Club in a 3-0 affair.

Both sides failed to score in the first half of the game, but Santos Football Club found the breakthrough in the 74th minute with a magnificent goal from Captain Stephon Reynolds.

Milerock’s attempts to level the game were met with a strong Santos defence.

Daniel Ross secured his club’s second goal in the 88th minute, with the last goal from Jamal Coddington in the 90th minute just before the final whistle.

In a post-game in-

terview, Santos Captain Reynolds said his team had a slow start, but as the game progressed “we started playing football and we started to get the opportunity and we started to score”.

He added that he was happy with the team’s overall performance.

Santos Football Club's first win was against visitors Victoria Kings Football Club on May 16 at the Guyana Police Force Sports Ground in Kingston, Georgetown. The visiting team lost 7-0.

The KFC Elite League, which kicked off on May 14, is a priority for Guyana’s top clubs with the champions automatically qualifying for the CONCACAF/Caribbean Shield Championships.

A total of 10 clubs –Fruta Conquerors Football Club, Guyana Police Force Football Club, Guyana Defence Force Football Club, Den Amstel Football Club, Victoria Kings Football Club, Buxton United Sports Club, Milerock Football Club, Ann's Grove Football Club,

Western Tigers Football Club, and Santos Football Club – will be competing against each other over the next two months for a chance to win more than four million dollars in cash prizes.

Teams have to overcome the first hurdle of the knockout stages in the highly-competitive league to make it to the two-million dollars championship match.

There will be more football action with a double-header, today, Tuesday, May 23 at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Ground, Vlissengen Road, Georgetown.

Western Tigers Football Club will play Buxton Football Club at 19:00h and GDF Football Club will face Den Amstel Football Club at 21:00h.

The KFC Elite League is a key part of GFF President Wayne Forde’s strategy to grow the football audience in Guyana, while giving players a competitive platform to showcase their talent.

KFC Elite League…

GBA President Steve Ninvalle

Scenes from Sunday’s KFC Elite League Round 2 opener between Santos and Milerock FC