Guyana Times - Friday, December 13, 2024

Colombian airline commences 3 weekly flights out of

President Ali announces $2B fertiliser subsidy for farmers countrywide

… Govt awards $1B contract for construction of state-of-the-art port facility, wharf at Charity

Police to establish tourism, oil & gas, aviation units in 2025

Man accused of 2021 murder to know fate on Monday

PNCR, GAP agree to strengthen coalition politics

Guyanese businessman shot dead in T&T

‘We can’t chase everybody who litters; culture shift, education needed’ – GT Mayor

T&T’s National Energy sponsors GEC for 3rd year

President Dr Irfaan Ali and Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues addressing concerns of farmers during

outreach in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Thursday

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Friday, December 13 – 03:00h04:30h and Saturday, December 14 – 04:00h- 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, December 13 – 14:25h15:55h and Saturday, December 14 – 15:10h- 16:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

President Ali announces $2B fertilizer subsidy for farmers countrywide

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

resident Dr Irfaan

East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.58 metres.

High Tide: 14:50h reaching a maximum height of 2.70 metres.

Low Tide: 08:22h and 20:55h reaching minimum heights of 0.70 metre and 0.49 metre.

Ali on Wednesday announced a $2 billion fertilizer subsidy for farmers countrywide, doubling last year’s allocation.

The Head of State made this announcement at a presidential outreach at the Rice Producers Association (RPA) Bond in Anna Regina.

The initiative forms part

we are already putting aside money to start 50% of these roads, so that we can get the work going to give you these farm-to-market access roads,” he declared.

“Before the end of the year -- the engineers have already done the costing for all of these roads; we're not sitting back, because we want to invest in assets that will

tres having been completed to date. The road is expected to significantly benefit farmers and residents in the area, improving transportation and access.

Among other infrastructural projects he mentioned were bridges linking C-1 and C-6, which would positively impact 1,000 acres of agricultural land. Construction

of Government’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture sector, increasing productivity, and enhancing farmers' livelihoods.

The President has said that between 2020 and 2024, the Government’s investments have brought about significant improvements in key sectors.

Noting that agricultural productivity has risen from 5.5 tons to 6.1 tons per hectare, he described it as a remarkable achievement driven by strategic policy interventions and the hard work of farmers. These substantial investments, he added, are set to directly support the agriculture sector, empowering farmers to maximize the use of their lands and significantly boost productivity.

“We are going to exceed what we did last year by doubling the farmers’ fertilizer subsidy to two billion dollars,” President Ali has announced.

Besides this announcement of the subsidy, President Ali updated those present on the progress of the farm-tomarket roads, a critical project for the region’s agricultural expansion. He noted that funds have been allocated to commence work on 50 per cent of these roads, with engineers already completing the cost assessments. Specific allocations include 1.2 kilometres in Affiance; 1.4 kilometres in Bush Lot, 1.5 kilometres in Mariah’s Delight; 1.7 kilometres in Queenstown, and 3.6 kilometres in Dartmouth.

“This is about 12 kilometres of roads, farm-to-market access roads that were raised. This is outside of the programme; you raised this with him. Today I can tell you that

enhance productivity and increase productivity -- when we put these roads in, we want the farmers to go in and make use of the land and increase the productivity of the region,” he declared.

President also highlight-

of main canals at Lima, Coffee Grove, Evergreen, and Reliance is progressing, with the contract to construct the canal at Reliance having already been awarded and the remaining projects being set for completion in the next pro-

projects that have been completed or are ongoing in the region with the aim of creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth. President Ali has noted that these efforts are part of a larger plan to build a resilient and self-sustaining agricultural sector.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who was also at the meeting, reiterated Government's commitment to supporting local farmers by ensuring they have the resources and opportunities needed to grow the agriculture sector.

This support includes making significant investments in farm-to-market roads, storage facilities, and access to financial support, all designed to help farmers maximize productivity.

Further, the President spoke of the ambitious target set for 2025, wherein the nation aims to not only meet its own food production needs, but to position itself as a net exporter of agricultural goods. This shift is expected to contribute significantly to the country's economic growth, with savings projected to exceed US$30 million, which could be reinvested into further development. (Raywattie Deonarine)

ed the progress made on construction of the Sparta-Golden Fleece Road, with 3.4 kilome-

gramme. Residents have also been told of other developmental

A section of the gathering

President Ali addressing the gathering on Thursday

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha was at the meeting

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Doubling down on growth

President Dr Irfaan Ali's announcement of a $2 billion fertilizer subsidy for farmers in Region Two marks another significant effort in the Government’s ongoing efforts to revolutionize the agricultural sector. Doubling last year’s allocation, this initiative underscores a commitment to ensuring food security, boosting rural livelihoods, and positioning Guyana to be a leader in agricultural production. It is a practical demonstration of a Government that is determined to invest in strengthening critical sectors and catalysing national economic growth.

This subsidy comes at a time when agricultural productivity is already on an upward trajectory, rising from 5.5 tons to 6.1 tons per hectare between 2020 and 2024. This achievement, as President Ali noted, is the result of targeted policy interventions and the relentless efforts of farmers.

The fertilizer subsidy would serve to accelerate this growth, enabling farmers to enhance soil fertility, improve crop yields, and fully utilize their lands. By doubling the allocation, the Government is making a clear statement: the backbone of Guyana’s economy — its farmers — deserve robust support.

Fertilizer is a critical input for agriculture, often comprising a significant portion of production costs.

Reducing this financial burden would not only increase farmers’ profitability, but would also encourage the expansion of cultivated areas, paving the way for greater food production. Beyond the immediate boost to agricultural output, the subsidy aligns with a broader strategy to make Guyana’s agriculture sector more resilient and competitive. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha emphasized this vision in noting that the Government is laying the groundwork for a self-sustaining agricultural sector, that can meet domestic food needs while establishing the nation as a net exporter by 2025.

This ambitious goal has far-reaching implications. It positions Guyana to benefit from international markets, reduces reliance on imports, and contributes to global food security — all while reinforcing Guyana’s economic sovereignty. The projected savings of over US$30 million through enhanced agricultural productivity show the multiplier effect of strategic investments in this sector. These savings can be reinvested in areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, creating a ripple effect that benefits all citizens.

Ali’s focus on farm-to-market roads is another critical element of this initiative. Agriculture does not end in the fields; it requires efficient systems to transport produce to markets.

The Government’s investment in these roads would reduce postharvest losses, lower transportation costs, and connect farmers to larger markets. Engineers are already at work assessing costs, with 50% of these roads slated for construction being a tangible step toward unlocking the full potential of Region Two’s agricultural resources. By improving infrastructure, the Government is not only addressing immediate logistical challenges, but is also boosting long-term economic resilience.

Enhanced connectivity would attract investments, stimulate ancillary industries, and provide new opportunities for rural communities. These developments collectively create a vibrant ecosystem that supports sustainable agricultural growth.

What stands out in this initiative is the Government’s holistic approach. President Ali’s remarks reflect an understanding that agricultural development is not just about increasing yields, but is also about empowering people. By prioritizing investments in fertilizer subsidies, infrastructure, and community development, the Government is creating an environment in which farmers can thrive.

As Guyana advances toward its 2025 targets, the country’s agricultural sector is poised to play a major role in global food systems. With increasing production capacities and investments in infrastructure, storage facilities, and financial support, Guyana is well-positioned to emerge as a key player in regional markets.

This transition from a domestic-focused producer to an exporter would not only elevate the nation’s economic status, but would also contribute to food security in the wider Caribbean and beyond.

The $2 billion fertilizer subsidy is more than an economic policy; it is a testament to a vision for prosperity that is rooted in the empowerment of farmers and the transformation of agriculture.

By investing in critical inputs, infrastructure, and long-term strategies, the Government is addressing immediate needs while laying a strong foundation for future growth. As Guyana marches toward becoming a net exporter of agricultural products, this initiative serves as an example of the nation’s potential. It exemplifies what can be achieved when strategic leadership is combined with the dedication of its people.

In this journey, the farmers of Region Two and beyond stand as the torchbearers of a resilient and self-sustaining agricultural economy.

National Awards programme serves a timely purpose

Dear Editor,

For many people, “time is tight.” A natural interpretation could reflect that there is not enough time remaining for us to do what we would like to do, and the precious seconds are running out as the clock ticks slowly but surely.

Even Old Man Time is recorded when the stopwatch does not tick. The American R&B pop group composed the award-winning instrumental tune back in 1968 as the soundtrack for the movie “Uptight.” “Time is Tight” made it to the Top Ten pop chart.

In the interest of time, popular “Guyana Dialogue” moderator and philanthropist Dr Tara Singh, a political and social commentator and analyst (formerly UG senior lecturer in the Sociology Dept.), pertinently reminded us of President Ali’s promise to activate the “Orders of Guyana” in his recent published article in the newspapers.

As “Time Goes By,” many patriotic Guyanese continue to pour their hearts and souls selflessly into this country for the de-

velopment and betterment of the people and society. Many do so objectively and subjectively.

Quite appropriately, Dr. Tara Singh’s call for activation of the National Awards programme bears fruition, and his sentiments are being echoed in many quarters and endorsed in numerous conversations. His views are quite timely, especially since the Government did not reinstate this programme after it was sworn into office in 2020, after the “Mother of all Elections” was contested. Next year, the PPP/ C’s five-year term will be up, and another election is brewing. Dr. Singh’s valid opinion is creating a stir and excited anticipation for qualified consideration.

If and when such a time arises, and a list is prepared for inclusivity (exclusivity?), will it be extensive, exclusive, or comprehensive? Would it involve an exhaustive or abridged process? Who would be the examiners, and who would head such a committee? What contingencies would be appropriated to satisfy the condi-

tions? Would a time frame come into play? Would Guyanese ever be satisfied with the methodology? Would the critics have a field day?

The voice of favouritism would surely secure a Grammy award. But time is the healer of all pains. While history has favoured certain elite optimism, it is the opportune moment to salvage any deficiency and pursue recourse in holistic consideration. Ideally, the awardees should represent the diversity in today’s multi-cultural society, reflecting the vast spectrum of significant impetus at home and abroad, being Guyanese and non-Guyanese.

Guyana has always been an agricultural production nation, and the sugar, rice, mining and timber industries have always been the backbone of Guyana’s economy. It is only fitting that this sector should not be overlooked, especially since its contribution would avoid any Dutch Disease Syndrome.

The National Awards programme does not have to be a time-consuming

exercise. Dr Tara Singh’s five-point suggestions are commendable and are worthy of mentioning as a guideline to incorporate as possible criteria. At least 4 of the categories should substantiate the formation for the choices, and there should be one other to bolster those choices as a support in lieu.

The National Awards programme serves many purposes. One of its objectives is to instil in Guyanese the interest to serve Guyana diligently, patriotically and sincerely. Its influence would be productive for a progressive nation, and would influence and encourage the young generation to follow esteemed footsteps and become recognized for their efforts.

While time is also measured as money, time is of the essence of what you can do for the country, and not what the country can do for you. The Government needs to act now, because, for many, “time is tight.”

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Over the past three days, the Amerindian Affairs Ministry rolled out its annual Christmas toy drive in the North Pakaraimas, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). In photo are some of the children displaying their toys

Clarification on the system for dutyfree vehicles for remigrants et al

Note is taken of the misconceptions and miscommunication in various sections of the media surrounding the Chief Justice’s decision in a matter concerning the source of funding for tax exemptions on a duty-free vehicle for a remigrant from the United States of America.

While the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is respectful of, and will abide by, the ruling of the Honorable Chief Justice, the GRA wishes to clarify its actions in keeping with the intent of the measures surrounding import of high-end luxury vehicles by some remigrants, and the abuse of the concession by some unscrupulous persons who may have been granted such a status by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In keeping with policy, remigrants are allowed a vehicle for their own use, subject to various conditions stipulated in the law. This concession, depending on its “cc of the vehicle”, allows remigrants to pay significantly reduced taxes on vehicle imports, i.e., 10%, 20%, or 30% excise tax, depending on its engine capacity. For example, a normal taxpayer importing or buying an unlimited engine size, highend vehicles usually pay in excess of $44 million in taxes, versus a maximum of $6M that a purported remigrant would incur for the same vehicle.

This has allowed for unscrupulous persons, including some auto dealers, seeking to utilize this system by enticing potential remigrants, for monetary gain, to travel to Guyana, apply for the remigrant status and a high-end vehicle, then leave the jurisdiction.

More alarming is that many of these applicants have little or no financial means, nor a bank account, are not even registered, nor filed tax returns in their country of origin, or sometimes do not even possess a driver’s licence in the foreign jurisdiction. When their documents are submitted and analyzed, they often show little or no funds for years. But prior to, or after the receipt of, the approval, large and sudden cash injections are made into their just opened bank accounts, local or foreign, and from unknown persons and benefactors who are nowhere to be found, or refuse collaboration of the deposit (as was in this case), all with the intention of facilitating the purchase of high-end vehicles.

The vehicles are then utilized or purchased by ineligible persons through the process of Powers of Attorney, or possession, resulting in tens of millions in revenue being lost to the State.

This practice is becoming so prevalent that the GRA has even seen employees of certain treaty-exempted organisations, and even public servants, being involved in the said activity, hence the resort by the Authority to the “he who asserts must prove” principle, by requesting the source(s) of funds used in the acquisition of the said highend vehicle.

The Revenue Authority is aware of, and takes seriously, its roles and responsibilities as mandated by the various laws of Guyana that it administers. The Authority is also a Supervisory Authority tasked with regulating and ensuring compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act, Cap 10:11, another reason or rationale for the “source of funds’ request.

The Authority also has certain tax and information treaties with several jurisdictions, and further is obliged, as a Supervisory Authority under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act, to share such information with its counterparts. The Authority fully intends to do so by the filing of “Suspicious Activity Reports” of these transactions.

The Revenue Authority is in the process of appealing the decision, considering the huge tax implications to the State, and its obligations under the various administered Acts.

The Authority would also explore all options at its disposal to ensure the system is not abused, and to protect the nation’s revenue. Persons who seek to abuse the system with intent to defraud or to aid, assist, abet, counsel, or induce such abuse may be guilty of an offence and be liable to fines and/or imprisonment in accordance with relevant sections of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, the Income Tax Act, Chapter 81:01, and all relevant legislation administered by the Authority.

The Authority again pleads with such persons to desist from such activity, and requests the general public to report any information on abuse of the system on telephone numbers 227-6060, extensions 3201, 3204, 3205, 3206, 3211, 3212, or 3408. All information provided would be dealt with strict confidentiality, and such persons may be rewarded in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Georgetown, December 12, 2024

Living wages for sugar workers are long overdue

Dear Editor

Sometimes, in my moments of quiet contemplation, my mind would drift backwards to Plantation Bath, the sugarcane plantation where I was born and raised. In those moments, I would vividly recall the struggles of the people within my community - including my parents – who, from morning until late evening, toiled each day in distant sugar cane fields to earn miserly wages not adequate to support their families. Yet they never complained, even as colonial overseers, at the behest of their expatriate plantation owners, denied workers representation, and punished those who expressed dissatisfaction.

Then came the Man Power Citizens Association (MPCA), professing to represent the workers. However, this labour union soon proved to be ineffective in representing the workers, submitting instead to the exploitative explanations

and viewpoints of plantation owners. It was not until the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) came into existence that workers began to receive true representation. However, the workers’ hardships, though incrementally addressed, did not drastically subside or disappear.

Out of such existence, Madhoo (Reds), my former elementary school and later cane-cutter friend, urged me to write something about his life. His constant plea led me to pen this poem, which describes the hardships and struggles of canecutters.

This poem was published by the Guyana Graphic in 1967.

So early, so early, it’s time to wake

My bundle, my breakfast, I have to take

Out to the fields where the canes doth lie

Whether it’s raining or whether it’s dry

My children still sleeping and hardly did see

Their father so dear to work he must be

Turning and toiling in both heat and cold

From morning to night, till his limbs grow old

The workers all gather for tasks to be done

In the cold morning dew or the hot bright sun

Their twenties then clatter, the canes did fall

The ones who are lagging, the Sardar did call

My lunch did I take when my cutting is done

On dams in the fields under the blazing sun

For this is the way it still has to be

For a lonely canecutter, a worker like me

The punts are all loaded with canes fetched on heads

By jumping the drains and running on beds

The workers all jostled to fill their own share

To relieve their burdens of canes they did bear

The day has now ended to home I must go

With aching muscles and a heart full of woe

My children now sleeping for evening has come

No greetings for father whose work is undone

Then Fridays to office the place I must go

To receive a packet of wages so low

Of my week’s labor in fields afar

The cutting of canes is my own little war.

The above poem helps to contextualise the hardships of canecutters, and provide glimpses into their lives then. Indeed, working conditions have changed, yet sugar workers continue to struggle to maintain their families on subsistence wages. So, it is commendable that today’s workers, with GAWU’s representation –through the current compensation agreement with GuySuCo – can realize increases in wages that enable them to improve their standards of living.

It is also commendable that the Government and President Ali acknowledge and support the crucial contributions of sugar workers to the national economy - workers whose strenuous labour once proved to be the economic backbone of the country, and for whom living wages are long overdue.

Regards, Narayan Persaud, PhD

Professor Emeritus

Page Foundation

You already know most of the units of time. They are seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, and years. Sometimes, people also talk about decades and centuries.

1 minute = 60 seconds

1 hour = 60 minutes

1 day = 24 hours

1 week = 7 days

1 month = 28 or 29 or 30 or 31 days. (Months can vary in length. Some have 30 days, while others have 31. February has only 28 days, except in a leap year when it has 29.)

1 year = 12 months = 52 weeks = 365 days. (A leap year has 366 days. The extra day is added to February.)

A decade = 10 years

A century = 100 years

How many days are in a three-year span of time that has a leap year? Add 2 times 365 + 366 = 1096 days

Handprint Christmas Tree Card

This fun and easy craft is perfect for little hands! Kids can create their own festive cards by turning their handprints into a Christmas tree. Add a touch of sparkle with glitter glue, decorate with self-adhesive gems, and get creative with your favourite colours.

What you’ll need

Green poster paint

Gold glitter glue

Self-adhesive gem stones

Gold & silver glitter star stickers

White card

Brown card

Glue sticks

To make

Step 1: Begin by folding a piece of white A4 card in half.

Step 2: Next, cover your hand and a brush in green paint. Press your painted hand onto the white card to create a green handprint.

Step 3: Wait for the paint to dry, then create tinsel using gold glitter glue. You can add gold glitter on top to make the tinsel extra sparkly.

Step 4: When the glitter glue is dry, stick rainbow self-adhesive gemstones along the glittery ‘tinsel’.

Step 5: Stick a star on top of the tree.

6: To finish, draw and cut out a tree trunk/tree skirt shape from brown card and stick it to the card. (bakerross.co.uk)

By RoBeRt Southwell SJ

As I in hoary winter’s night stood shivering in the snow, Surpris’d I was with sudden heat which made my heart to glow; And lifting up a fearful eye to view what fire was near, A pretty Babe all burning bright did in the air appear; Who, scorched with excessive heat, such floods of tears did shed As though his floods should quench his flames which with his tears were fed. “Alas!” quoth he, “but newly born, in fiery heats I fry, Yet none approach to warm their hearts or feel my fire but I! My faultless breast the furnace is, the fuel wounding thorns, Love is the fire, and sighs the smoke, the ashes shame and scorns; The fuel Justice layeth on, and Mercy blows the coals, The metal in this furnace wrought are men’s defiled souls, For which, as now on fire I am to work them to their good, So will I melt into a bath to wash them in my blood.” With this he vanish’d out of sight and swiftly shrunk away, And straight I called unto mind that it was Christmas day.

Step

Norton gets $1.8M salary, other benefits for doing

“practically nothing”

– VP Jagdeo

– defends PPP/C's track record on salary increases for public servants

General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has lashed out at Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton for criticizing the Government’s recent salary increase announcements for public servants, disclosing that the politician collects some $1.8 million in salary along with other benefits.

Earlier this week, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced a retroactive 10 per cent salary increase for public servants this year, and a further eight per cent pay hike in 2025 along with a host of other benefits. In criticizing these measures, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Opposition, of which Norton is the leader, cited the Head of State’s $2.9 million monthly salary to accuse the Government of be-

ing anti-poor by giving large sums of money to the rich and pittances to the poor.

But Jagdeo, at his weekly press conference on Thursday, argued that President Ali works to earn that salary, as opposed to the Opposition Leader, whose total emoluments, allowances and other benefits amount to more than $1.8 million per month.

“So, $1.8 million Norton earns for doing nothing practically. This excludes his annual vacation allowance and other annual payments…and he also gets a budget to run his office running into tens of millions of dollars… That’s what Norton gets now, but he complains about everyone else [when he does] nothing practically, just walking around the place and being a nuisance. At least [President] Ali is working,”

the PPP General Secretary stated.

In further dismissing the Opposition’s narrative that the PPP Administration is shortchanging public servants – which was also peddled by the Alliance For Change (AFC) faction of the Opposition - Jagdeo pointed out that wages even at the lower end of the public service are more competitive

Police to establish tourism, oil & gas, aviation units in 2025

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is set to see major transformation in 2025, including the establishment of specialised units for the tourism, oil and gas, and aviation sectors.

This is according to acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken, who delivered the feature address at the GPF’s Annual Awards Ceremony held on Thursday, when he revealed that the GPF would be establishing a modern Police Academy at Dora, along the SoesdykeLinden Highway.

“The establishment at Dora it going to be more critical, and we’re going to be in a better place,” Commissioner (ag) Hicken has said.

An agenda item in 2025 is transforming the Guyana Police Force into the Guyana Police Service. “We’ve been saying that (for) one and half years now, and we’re going to push in 2025 to have that done,” Hicken has said.

He disclosed that the GPF would establish a neighbourhood council and a neighbourhood watch po-

licing programme to build better relations with communities and aid in crime fighting.

Further, “functional willingness programmes” would be established to build capacity and resilience of ranks; broaden evidence-based practices to support crime detection and enforcement; mobilise multi-agency and inter-judicial initiatives targeting crime; build capacity of accident and investigation units at police stations; and establish a rehabilitation regimen for incarcerated individuals that would focus on education, skills development, and reintegration into society.

According to Hicken, the GPF would continue to decentralize key departments and services, such as community relations, SWAT and canine units, among others, to enhance services across the region.

He has also promised that a monitoring unit would be established in police regional divisions to improve transparency and track oper-

Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken

ational progress. With plans to further increase training programmes in criminology, traffic management, emotional intelligence, evidence collection and storage for ranks, he has urged all officers to work diligently to fulfil their roles.

“Let us continue to approach our duties with honour, integrity, with unwavering determination, knowing that our collective efforts will create a safer and brighter future for all,” Commissioner (ag) Hicken has admonished.

than those paid in the private sector.

The Vice President, in his comparison, highlighted that public servants have benefited from a whopping 80 per cent increase in wages and salaries during the PPP’s current term in office, as against a mere 36 per cent under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) regime’s five years.

“In five years, your salary increases were less than the 50 per cent [which the Coalition] ministers took three months after they got into office,” Jagdeo, who is also the country’s Vice President, declared.

According to the Vice President, the PPP/C Administration has successfully increased the overall public sector wages. In Central Government, the wage bill moved from $71.8 billion in 2020 to $121.4 billion in 2024 with the recent 10 per cent increase – a growth of $49.6 billion more per year.

For public enterprises, the wage bill was $16.1 billion in 2020, and is now $24 billion this year, representing a $7.9 billion or 49 per cent increase. As it relates to statutory bodies, the wage bill grew from $38.9 billion in 2020 to $65.2 billion in 2024.

“For the whole of the public sector, in 2020 the wage bill was $126.8 billion, it’s now $210.7 billion per year. That means it’s $83.9 billion more per year that the public sector is currently getting from the Government of Guyana… So, this is a significant increase; that is a 66 per cent increase,” he noted, adding that this benefits over 70,000 persons.

Next year, with the application of the eight per

cent increase, Jagdeo outlined, the public sector wage bill would further move from $126 billion to $227 billion –reflecting an 80 per cent increase over the five years that the PPP/C Government has been in office.

“The public sector [will be getting] $100 billion more per year now than they were getting in 2020. This works out to US$500 million more per year than they were getting in 2020,” he argued.

The 10 per cent salary increase for 2024 and eight per cent for 2025 were part of a landmark two-year agreement that the Guyana Government recently signed with the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU). In addition, the Government also inked a historic three-year deal with the University of Guyana Workers’ Union (UGWU) and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association that will see their members getting a 10 per cent salary hike in 2024, eight per cent in 2025, and nine per cent in 2026 – a move that ensures parity with previous agreements signed with the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU).

Back in August, the Education Ministry and the GTU inked a three-year agreement for teachers to get a 10 per cent salary increase in 2024, an eight per cent increase in 2025, and a nine per cent increase in 2026.

Moreover, only on Wednesday, the Government, through the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), signed a similar three-year agreement with the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU). This deal will see sugar workers benefiting from a retroactive acrossthe-board pay rise of 10 per

cent for 2024, another eight per cent in 2025, and a further nine per cent in 2026.

According to the Vice President, these agreements not only bring benefits to public servants, but also represent the Government’s commitment to working with the unions for the betterment of workers in the public sector. Further, he assured that the Government would ensure similar arrangements are reached with the other workers’ unions.

“We’re hoping that we will continue to work with the other unions to conclude agreements of a similar nature for the rest of the public servants. If we do not have any agreement with their unions, the 10 per cent increase that we’ve given to the GTU and the GAWU and the GPSU will be paid out to those others in the public sector,” he said.

“So, this is something that is a great movement forward. It recognises the role that our public servants play, and it treats them with respect. And APNU is just sour about this all. They’re not happy… Next year is election year, they’re not happy that this has happened, and you see that reflected in the sour comments they make,” Jagdeo posited during Thursday’s press conference at PPP’s Freedom House Head Office on Robb Street. (G-8)

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo

Guyanese businessman shot dead in T&T

Deon Marshall, a Guyanese national who resided at Mount Pleasant in Arima, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, has been shot dead at his place of business along Queen Street in Arima on Tuesday evening at about 20:00h.

The Guardian newspaper has reported that the 45-year-old father was at his business place, the Mix Master Punch Bar, known for its drinks, hotdogs, burgers and ice cream, when a gunman ap-

proached him and opened fire. The motive behind the killing is still unclear, and police investigations are ongoing.

Marshall, who had been affectionately known as the “Punch Man,” had earned a reputation in the Arima community for his entrepreneurial spirit and friendly nature. Despite living in Trinidad for some time, he had remained deeply connected to his Guyanese roots.

Man accused of 2021 murder to know fate on Monday

Marlon LaRose, a 29-year-old logger of Maria Henrietta, Upper Berbice River, who in 2021 was charged with the murder of Kevin Hercules of Wiruni Village, Berbice River, will know his fate on Monday, December 16, consequent to the conclusion of his trial before Justice Sandil Kissoon and a panel of jurors on Wednesday,

December 11, 2024.

Following a preliminary inquiry, the court had determined that sufficient evidence existed for La Rose to stand trial for the crime.

A jury had been empanelled on December 4, and the trial had commenced before Justice Sandil Kissoon on December 9, 2024. The state had been represented by Attorneys A Ramotar and D Fraser, while the accused had been represented by Attorney R Bostwick.

Both prosecution and defence have closed their arguments on December 11, 2024, and Justice Kissoon has set Monday, December 16, for summation and verdict.

RECAP

The incident that had resulted in the death of Kevin Hercules had been committed between September 12 and 13, 2021 at Wiruni, but Hercules’s body had been retrieved from the Berbice River on September 14, 2021.

When Hercules’s body was retrieved from the river, it was observed that the face was mutilated and the throat was slit.

Arrested on September 17, 2021, the defendant Marlon La Rose had confessed to killing Hercules during an altercation.

Hercules had reportedly last been seen alive imbibing with friends. It was also reported that that evening he had reportedly asked for a drop to his home, which is located some distance away from the shop where he had been hanging out with his friends.

Reports are that Hercules had been seen entering a boat along with other persons; but according to his family, he never arrived home, thus they had filed a missing person’s report with the police. His body was found the following day.

Sweet…

… surprise

And here your Eyewitness thought, after Pressie had announced those raises to public servants, that Father Christmas only showed up in “town”!! He used to trek with his momma once a year to window shop there in the Christmas season, and if perchance the fat guy sweating away in the red suit and white beard at Bookers Stores was around, he’d get a chance to glimpse him. Not sitting on the possibly paedophile’s lap and receiving a present, mind you – that cost money; a glimpse was all he got!!

Anyhow, your Eyewitness was pleased that Pressie’s being an equal-opportunity Father Christmas when he read that sugar workers also received raises; “wage”, not salary --which is for those who don’t go out into the sun, or get their hands dirty!! Sugar workers – by definition rural - in all categories were covered, and field and factory workers got 10% for 2024, 8% for 2025, and 9% for 2026. As with the public servants, the 2024 increase was “retro”, and with their wage now being a minimum of $100,000 monthly, this should amount to a very nice top-up!!

But is it enough?? For years, the absenteeism in the sugar industry was a problem, and with the economy now booming as the “fastest growing in the world”, this gonna only get worse – sooner, rather than later. While it may appear counterintuitive to suggest more massive increases in sugar workers’ wages when the industry’s bleeding red ink, this is strategically necessary, so we don’t keep pouring money down a black hole!! Let’s face it – we’re running a “free market” economy, and we have to listen to the market and follow its demands. Right now, the labour market says loudly and clearly that it’ll take mo’ money to get workers into those cane fields!!

Your Eyewitness also wondered whether they’ll receive their traditional API -- Annual Production Incentive -- which God knows they need, with production being abysmally low!! The report said the increases also applied to “piecerated and time-rated workers”, which left your Eyewitness puzzled. This category includes the famous “cane cutters” –no, “cane harvesters”, for your Eyewitness, thank you…too genteel!! – who’s paid by the number of tons of cane they “cut and load”. Will the increase apply to the per unit tons??

Anyhow, the Father Christmas syndrome will now infect everyone in the private sector – especially those shopgirls working for a pittance in the shops in the towns and villages across our now fair land. This is especially applicable to Chinese supermarkets and hardware stores, where the poor workers have to also be translators. Shouldn’t they be paid separately for providing this service??

Now, some might say these increases in wages would lead to increased spending and inflation. But we’ll breathe easier!!

…free skies

Hardly a week passes without us having another airline announcing us as a destination. The latest is the Colombian airline Avianca, which gonna be coming in three times weekly with an Airbus A320. Now, your Eyewitness knows some smart Alec’s gonna say we’ve been having flights from Colombia for quite some time now - transport that cocoa-based product that’s so much in demand up North!! But those flights were under the radar, and, as far as we know, didn’t transport live bodies as Avianca would – bodies interested in wider economic opportunities than their predecessors.

But while most Guyanese are enthusiastic that they can now hop onto a plane from CJIA and see the world without too much hassle, we gotta remind ourselves about those who will be COMING IN – like the Colombians mentioned above. In the not-too-distant future, they’re gonna outnumber us!! That’s right!! So, while we argue about who’ll win in 2025 –we better keep an eye on 2030!!

…revenge

Back in the day, Saul got enlightenment on the way to Damascus - and became Paul, a name more acceptable to the Gentiles. Did you notice that, on his way to Damascus, ISIS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani is now suit-wearing Ahmed al-Sharaa??

Murder accused Marlon LaRose

Murdered: Kevin Hercules

Dead: Deon Marshall

GPF Annual Award Ceremony

Serious crimes down by 15%, fatal accidents by 20% – Top Cop

…as GPF hands out $173M in cash incentives, trophies

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has recorded a 20 per cent reduction in fatal accidents and a 15.2 per cent reduction in serious crimes in 2024 when compared to 2023.

months, there was a 20 per cent reduction in fatal accidents and an overall decrease of nine per cent in total accidents in 2024 compared to 2023. This improvement is attributed to the successful implemen-

This was according to acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken, who credited

tation of a comprehensive traffic management plan, which included the introduction of traffic calming

these results to the Force's 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which focuses on Operations, Partnership, Developing Our People, Infrastructure, Performance, Professionalism, and Accountability.

"Despite an increase in traffic accidents in recent

measures, enhanced public transportation safety campaigns, rigorous enforcement targeting impaired driving, and use of helmets and seatbelts," Hicken said.

He added that the reduction in serious crimes was a direct result of strategic, data-driven polic-

ing initiatives, inclusive of the active involvement of 257 Community Policing Groups, increased patrols in crime hotspots, crime mapping, and predictive policing.

Hicken also emphasised that failure was not the end, as he quoted Winston Churchill: “Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that count.”

On this note, he urged those present to continue to approach their duties with honour, integrity, and unwavering determination, knowing that their collective efforts would create a safer and brighter future for all.

Best Cop for 2024, Cadet Officer David Prince

Runner-up Best Cop, Detective Inspector Seetaram

Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken; Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum and Chairman of the PSC, Patrick Findlay among other senior ranks of the GPF

Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken

Colombian airline commences 3 weekly flights out of Guyana

The much-anticipated inaugural flight of Avianca Airlines of the Republic of Colombia arrived at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Guyana on Wednesday, December 11, with 29 inbound passengers, and later left with 113 passengers destined for Colombia.

This new route provides direct connectivity between these two countries, and that connectivity is expected to boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.

Representatives of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) were on hand to present passengers of this first flight with Guyana-branded tokens to commemorate

the event; and Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works, expressed enthusiasm for the new service by stating, “This will further strengthen bilateral ties between Guyana and Colombia.”

Minister Edghill has also underscored the Government's commitment to making significant investments in airport infrastructure in order to enable seamless connections with other countries.

This flight development is projected to considerably boost Guyana's international standing, making it more accessible to visitors from the Americas and elsewhere. It also increases Guyana's economic links

with Colombia, creating chances for collaboration in a variety of areas.

The introduction of Avianca Airlines in the Guyana market marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of aviation service in Guyana. This new service, together with the recent addition of several international carriers, has significantly improved the country's connectivity, in that Houston, St. Lucia, London, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Grenada and Colombia are among the top locations that have become more accessible.

Avianca Airlines will operate thrice-weekly flights to Guyana utilizing an Airbus A320 aircraft.

Avianca Airlines out of the Republic of Colombia

Govt awards $1B contract for construction of state-of-the-art port facility, wharf at Charity

The

The Guyana Government through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) has awarded a $1 billion contract for the construction of a state-ofthe-art port facility and modern wharf at Charity, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

According to President Dr Irfaan Ali, the contract signing will be done shortly, given that the contractor won the bid just a few days ago.

The Guyanese leader, who was at the time addressing residents at a community engagement on Thursday, emphasised that the transformative project aimed to position Charity and Region Two as a significant hub for exports, processing and regional trade, fostering economic growth and connectivity with Caribbean markets.

“We have awarded the contract for the construction of a modern port facility and wharf here at Charity for almost $1 billion. So, you will have a state-of-the-art stadium, a state-of-the-art hospital, and now an important piece of asset that will boost the competitiveness of the region, would align the production and productivity of the region with the markets in the Caribbean. And we are not just speaking about this loosely.

“So, it’s not only about this port and wharf facility. It’s about a facility of international standard that will bring with it other aspects of development, including a world-class packaging and storage facility,” the Head of State said.

As it relates to improving logistics within the region, President Ali disclosed that the port facility would be linked to several key pieces of infrastructure, including a worldclass packaging and storage facility being built by the Agriculture Ministry.

This particular facility will provide blast freezing, shelf-life extension for perishable goods, and value-added services, ensuring that products meet international and regional certification standards.

Additionally, an agro-processing and food security hub will be incorporated into the facility, supported by the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) to assist farmers and producers in marketing their goods effectively, while the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce through the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) will establish a presence in the region to ensure compliance with export requirements.

The Head of State explained that this layer of development would ensure that products meet international and regional certifications, streamlining access to external markets and reducing barriers for Guyanese goods.

“They (GMC) will support the marketing arm. We will have to build out a transport logistics system that will connect our goods efficiently with the regional market. The facility will be able to process, package and export value-added forestry products right from here into the region. Also on the Charity front, we want to create a recreation-

al hub that is linked to an expansive tourism product that will give even another plan of economic benefits, economic activity and job creation. As you have seen, we have started, but the people must be on board, too. We have to be disciplined,” Ali revealed.

In tandem with the infrastructure upgrades, President Ali highlighted the importance of community involvement in multiplying the yield of various crops.

“We have an additional 1000 acres of coconut on the cultivation now in the Pomeroon. We have

delivered more than 4000 high-yielding coconuts in the Pomeroon River, more than 2000 citrus plants, and in the region itself

more than 10,000 citrus plants. In addition to the 5000 acres that is already impoldered, we are going to further impolder 2500

acres more in the coming months. That is 7500 acres of land that will be placed in active production.

“We’re also reviving and renewing the cocoa industry and the coffee industry in the Pomeroon. We want to have 10,000, not want to, by next year we’ll deliver 10,000 cocoa plants to the Pomeroon to revive the cocoa industry, and we want 300 acres of land to be cultivated back with coffee. And we’re going to support with a production facility so that the market will be linked to the production,” the Guyanese Leader added.

Charity Wharf

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Guyana among 18 LAC countries to form alliance to address organised crime

Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing regional security and justice by signing on to the Alliance for Security, Justice and Development (ASJD) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). It is an initiative launched at the Regional Security and Justice Summit held in Bridgetown, Barbados on December 11 and 12, 2024.

Permanent Secretary of the Home Affairs Ministry, Andre Ally, represented Guyana at the signing ceremony.

The ASJD initiative has been created to address the growing influence of organised crime in the region by fostering a unified and evidence-based approach to security and justice. ASJD member countries, in collaboration with international institutions and stakeholders, would work together to strengthen institutions, protect vulnerable communities, disrupt illicit financial flows, and mobilise resources to counteract criminal networks.

“Organised crime operates across borders, and demands bold, coordinated regional action. Enhanced collaboration is critical to protect communities, strengthen institutions and capabilities, and disincentivize illicit activities across the region,” IDB President Ilan Goldfajn has said. “The Alliance for Security, Justice, and Development will enable strategic partnerships and resource mobilisation, essential to amplify the impact of our countries' efforts in addressing organised crime.”

The ASJD operates, through a steering committee and three technical groups, with a focus on protecting vulnerable populations and communities most affected by organized crime; strengthening security and justice institutions to enhance the effectiveness of responses; and reducing financial flows and dismantling illicit markets that empower criminal organisations.

Among the countries that have joined the ASJD

are Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Panamá, Paraguay, Perú, Suriname, the Bahamas, and Uruguay.

Eleven organisations also participate in the ASJD, including the Organization of American States (OAS), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the World

Bank, CAF (Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean), the Caribbean Development Bank, Caricom IMPACS, the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime (GITOC), the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Regional Security System (RSS), and the Italo-Latin American Institute (IILA).

These organisations have officially joined the ASJD, signalling a strengthened regional and global commitment, and showcasing broad multisectoral support for this initiative. Ecuador would hold the first pro tempore presidency of the ASJD. The InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) would serve as the technical secretariat, providing strategic support, mobilising resources, and scaling up effective interventions.

To support regional implementation, the ASJD would work through tailored mechanisms. This alliance presents a unique opportunity to pool resources, knowledge, and expertise to ensure a safer, fairer, and more prosperous future for all citizens of Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Co-operative Republic of Guyana stands ready to contribute to, and benefit from, this collaborative regional effort, leveraging shared experiences to implement sustainable policies that promote security, justice and development across the region.

Financing for investments to advance energy transition critical – Finance Minister tells IMF Forum – as Guyana

continues to showcase LCDS

The Government of Guyana has been aggressively implementing its development agenda along a low carbon development path, with its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) taking centre stage globally over the past years and prior.

Last week, Finance and the Public Service Minister Dr Ashni Singh attended the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) 2024 HighLevel Caribbean Forum on Managing the Green Transition, where Guyana’s innovative approach to managing its forests was alluded to.

The forum brought together Government Ministers, Regional Central Bank Governors, private sector and other stakeholders, the IMF Managing Director and senior IMF officials to discuss the Green Energy Transition (GET), which entails reducing the world’s reliance on fossil fuels by shifting to a renewable energy mix while using existing energy more efficiently.

As part of the forum, Dr Singh participated in a panel discussion under the theme “Taking Stock of the Macroeconomic Implications of the Green Energy Transition”, and he used that opportunity to remind the forum that the

Caribbean Region accounts for only 0.2 per cent of global greenhouse gases, but is disproportionately and highly exposed to climate change and natural disasters.

He reiterated that the Caribbean Region is seven times more at risk of facing a natural disaster than the larger United States; is twice as prone to natural disasters as other small states elsewhere; and that natural disasters impose a disproportionate extent of damage; for instance, one hurricane can impose damage of more than 200 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Dr Singh also pointed to the critical issue in the energy transition -- access to financing, both for private and public sector investments, to advance this transition.

He therefore called on the multilateral community to do more to increase the volume of financing available for public and private investments in the energy transition, and to reduce the cost of these investments, including through the use of derisking instruments.

IMF’s Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, during her opening remarks at the forum, cautioned that climate change poses an acute threat to the Caribbean; and she indicated that sea levels are rising, and natural di-

sasters are becoming more frequent and intense as she detailed how Hurricane Beryl had recently ravished several Caribbean islands. She thus pointed out that a rapid global transition to renewable energy is essential to mitigate some of these climate challenges.

The IMF official has, however, posited that despite the challenges, she firmly believes the Caribbean Region has tremendous opportunity, with the economies of states showing incredible resilience through the pandemic and its aftermath.

“Now is the time to seize the opportunity provided by global developments to plan and coordinate a green energy transition that fosters inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth across the region,” she advised.

At this point, Georgieva pointed to the substantial financial resources required for this transition, as she indicated that Caribbean governments alone cannot bear the burden, with the cost for resilience-building in the Caribbean region estimated at a staggering US$100 billion over the next two decades.

“This is the moment to leverage innovative financial instruments such as Guyana’s sale of carbon credits,” she then advised

the forum as she alluded to Guyana’s recent ambitious and innovative approach to garner funds for the country by using its forests.

Minister Singh has also held bilateral discussions with the IMF’s Managing Director, wherein he updated her on recent economic developments in Guyana, and the very favourable economic prospects of the country looking ahead.

Guyana has outlined a second-generation Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) as a successor to its first LCDS, which aims to reduce the country’s reliance on heavy fuel oil and transition to cleaner, more affordable energy sources, as well as mobilise resources from domestic assets.

Under the first LCDS, the global climate services provided by Guyana’s stand-

ing forests were mobilised to generate revenue for the country; in this instance, under a US$250 million bilateral partnership with the Kingdom of Norway.

On December 1, 2022, the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions announced the issuance of US$33.47 million TREES credit to Guyana for the five years from 2016 to 2020.

The Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) is a global initiative that seeks to incentivize the reduction of emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD), as well as restore forests and protect intact forests.

Subsequently, Government entered into an agreement in which Hess Corporation purchased approximately one- third of Guyana’s credits. The agreement sets out that, from

2016 to 2030, Hess will buy 2.5 million credits per year for a total of 37.5 million credits for a minimum payment of US$750 million, to be paid to Guyana between 2022 and 2032.

Also, on February 28 this year, Guyana announced the issuance of the world’s first carbon credits eligible for use by airlines in Phase 1 of CORSIA – the United Nations’ International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO’s) global emissions reduction programme. The credits issued were for Guyana’s 2021 performance in sustaining one of the world’s highest levels of tropical forest coverage, and one of the world’s lowest deforestation rates. A total of 7.14 million credits were issued by the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) for conformance with ART’s “TREES” standard.

Regional leaders and representatives at the signing ceremony

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and other leaders during a panel discussion on energy transition

President Dr Irfaan Ali led a team to Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Thursday, where the concerns of residents were addressed

T&T’s National Energy sponsors GEC for 3rd year

The Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) is excited to announce the National Energy Corporation of Trinidad & Tobago Limited (National Energy) as a gold sponsor for the 2025 edition of the flagship event.

This marks the third consecutive year that National Energy has returned as a gold sponsor, demonstrating its continued commitment to supporting the energy sector.

National Energy has played a pivotal role in the energy industry in Trinidad and Tobago for over 45 years. The company has been dedicated to the development of energy-based projects and infrastructure that underpins the industrial sector,

with a strong focus on gasbased and sustainable energy-related development, as well as delivering quality services to support these initiatives.

an integral part of the century-old legacy Trinidad and Tobago has built in being the region’s most experienced energy producer.

“With Guyana moving full steam ahead with the development of its gas resources, I am comforted by the fact that key players like National Energy are standing by our side on this journey.”

Further, he added, “National Energy, without question, is a jewel in the crown of Trinidad and Tobago’s institutional knowledge and I am proud to welcome them for a third consecutive year to this flagship event that is fully endorsed by the Government of Guyana.”

National Energy President, Dr Vernon Paltoo echoed similar sen -

timents. “National Energy is pleased to engage in our third year of representation and sponsorship for this flagship energy event for Guyana. We stand firm in our commitment to provide support and partnership towards the longterm development of a strong and resilient energy sector in Guyana that will benefit the people of Guyana, as well as the wider Caribbean region,” Paltoo related.

The Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo looks forward to collaborating with the Trinidadian company in shaping the future of energy and sustainable development in the world’s fastest-growing economy.

Serious crime down...

Members of the GPF, at all levels from Officers to Constables, in every Police Regional Division and Department, were awarded a whopping $173 million in cash incentives and trophies as the Force hosted its annual awards ceremony.

Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram related that the cash incentives increased by $23 million from last year. In addition, this year, 5018 ranks were rewarded, compared to 4336 last year.

Budhram lauded the hard work and commitment of the ranks being recognised and the need to do so, stating, "The life of a policeman/woman is one of service, sacrifice and steadfast determination. It is a calling that demands not only courage but also a deep sense of responsibility and resilience. The men and women we honour today exemplify these qualities. They have gone beyond and above the call of duty, setting the benchmark for excellence that inspires us all as we celebrate these accomplishments today."

Commissioner (ag) Hicken commended the recipients for their unwaver-

ing dedication and commitment not only to the citizens they serve but to also upholding the core values of the Force.

"While we often celebrate reductions in crime and restoration of safety, today, we pause to also recognise the people behind these successes. This ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the values of integrity, professionalism, and service that guide the Guyana Police Force. It is a time for us to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude to those whose actions embody these principles every single day."

Among the prestigious rewards handed out on Thursday was that of the Best Cop, which was awarded to Cadet Officer David Prince of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Cadet Officer Prince, who is Second-in-Charge of the Narcotics Branch, was recognised for his leadership, diligence and commitment in the fight against narcotics. Detective Inspector Seetaram of Regional Police Division Eight was adjudged as the runner-up 'Best Cop'.

GECSCE Chairman Anthony Whyte stated, “National Energy has been

Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram

Major upgrades of infrastructure announced to boost power-generation in Reg 2

P(Pomeroon-Supenaam), in an initiative that is aimed at significantly enhancing energy reliability and drive re-

gional development.

During an engagement with farmers and residents of that region on Thursday

PNCR, GAP agree to strengthen coalition politics

The People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) and the Guyana Action Party (GAP) have had a meeting on Thursday, December 12, during which discussions were had on the APNU+AFC coalition government, the problems facing coalition politics, and the key issues affecting Guyana. More importantly, discussions were focused on viable solutions to those problems.

These parties have issued a joint statement in which they adverted that they agree there is need to set up a forum to ensure all parties participate in the decision-making process; and they agree that a mechanism should be established and processes determined for resolving conflict between or among coali-

tion partners.

Their joint statement has also said, “It was also agreed that the parties need to have a well-defined and agreed political platform and philosophy to guide our decision-making and political actions.”

Further, both parties have agreed that the people of Guyana want members of these parties to work as a coalition, since it is the best choice for Guyana; and therefore, both parties have committed to working “to ensure that we enter the 2025 General and Regional Elections as part of the A Partnership for National Unity and a broad coalition”.

The coalition partners have, moreover, emphasized their shared commitment to promoting the welfare and development of the Guyanese

people.

The meeting is seen by both parties as an important step forward in strengthening the partnership between the PNCR and GAP, both of whom are members of the APNU.

The parties have also expressed their enthusiasm for working together to address the challenges facing Guyana, and to promote a brighter future for all citizens. The PNCR and GAP have agreed to continue to work together to advance their shared goals and objectives.

The meeting was attended by Leader of the PNCR, Aubrey Norton; General Secretary of the PNCR, Sherwin Benjamin; and Leader of GAP, Vincent Henry, along with the Chairman of GAP, Errol Ross.

at the Rice Producers Association Bond in Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast, the President highlighted progress ongoing in the country, and emphasized the Government's commitment to upgrading the power infrastructure in Region Two in order to meet growing demands for power generation and to support economic growth.

Reflecting on the state of the system when his administration took office, he recalled the frequent power outages that were caused by poorly maintained plants, and outlined the Government’s multi-faceted approach to resolving the issue, including by investing in new capacity, solar energy, and improvements to transmission and distribution systems.

He also disclosed that 11.3 megawatts of power is

currently supplied to the region, which exceeds the peak demand of 8.5 megawatts, and noted that by the end of this year, an additional 1.5 megawatts would be added, bringing the total to 12.5 megawatts.

“Your peak demand at the moment is about 8.5 megawatts. During the holidays, it will go up a bit, and we're going to add, before the end of this year, another 1.5 megawatts into the system. That will come up, so it will take it to about 12.5 megawatts; and by the first quarter of next year, an additional 3 megawatts of power will be installed in this region,” the Guyanese Leader has said.

Stressing that enhancing the transmission and distribution network is critical to ensuring efficient delivery of power, President

Ali explained, “To complement this without the transmission and distribution investment, we can't get anywhere; because if the transmission and distribution system is poor, then the movement of the power will be inefficient.”

Then he added, “For five years, from 2015 to 2020, we had almost zero investment in maintenance transmission and distribution. We've invested since I came here the first time, coming into government, $300 million on the transmission and distribution system.”

President Ali has, moreover, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure in Region Two with several key initiatives aimed at improving farm-to-market access and critical transportation links.

The leaders of the two parties on Thursday

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has announced a major boost in power generation for Region Two

President Dr Irfaan Ali being greeted by Region Two officials on Thursday

“There is no issue to

on expired

discuss” – VP Jagdeo

Corentyne Block licence

…as CGX calls for negotiations to amicably resolve matter

Insisting that the Petroleum Agreement for the Corentyne Block offshore Guyana is still in place, the Canada-based Joint Venture of CGX Energy Inc and Frontera Energy Guyana Corp is pushing for an amicable resolution, but the Guyana Government believes there is nothing to discuss since the licence has already expired.

The Government had

previously reported that the Joint Venture partners had failed to demonstrate the financial capacity needed to advance towards production and commercial development stages – a crucial requirement for the renewal of their exploration licence. As a result, it said the Petroleum Prospecting Licence for the Corentyne Block has expired and the acreage is now back with the State.

This was reaffirmed by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo at a press conference on Thursday.

“We have made it clear, the term for the licence expired. Therefore, if the term of the licence [is expired] and when they’re required to take some actions under the licence that they failed to comply with, then there is no issue to discuss. The licence’s term expired… If they have a different interpretation then they can go through the legal process,” Jagdeo contended.

His statements came on the heels of the JV partners stating in a press statement on Thursday that they have not received any formal communications from the Government of Guyana regarding the status of the licence. In fact, the statement pointed out that they remain committed to the potential development of the Corentyne Block, where oil has been discovered at the

“We can’t chase everybody who litters; culture shift, education needed” – GT Mayor

As Georgetown continues to deal with the wanton disposal of waste, the city’s Mayor Alfred Mentore on Thursday admitted that its enforcement arm could not charge everyone who litters.

Instead, he said investments may be better placed into boosting educational campaigns with the hopes of effecting a culture shift in citizens. He made these remarks during a press briefing at the Kitty Market, Georgetown.

“We can’t micromanage every person who dumps indiscriminately because that can be like an exercise in futility for the Solid Waste Director to have to chase after everybody who dumps here, who dumps there. It’s thousands of people in the city, and it’s difficult for us to manage all of that and to really and truly figure out who did this, who did that so we need to have that culture shift.”

He also pointed out that while they work on that, the real measure – outside of slapping people on the hands or charging them –is to get people educated through countrywide campaigns, since the capital city is often frequented by residents from various communities.

“What we may have to do, I think, because there are a lot of people who frequent the city who are not from the city is to treat it as a pilot project at the Georgetown level. We’ll have to get those other people who visit or work in the

city but don’t live here to also buy in to this.”

In his view, as the citizens start to clean their surroundings and the area begins to look cleaner, he foresees that attitudes and behaviours will change.

Meanwhile, Director of Solid Waste Management, Walter Narine related that some Guyanese have lost their sense of pride which is reflected in their habitual littering.

“But the sense of pride, we lost that somewhere a long time ago – pride in our country, because I mean, folks just at the airport – their behaviour has changed they haven’t gone over yet, but their behaviour has changed at the airport? it’s a tiresome job to clean after people, and we need to have that culture shift,” he stressed.

Striking the issue at its core, he also pointed to another problem, that is, many people do not know the current law.

Additionally, he stated that members of the public have also contributed to the problem of homeless people littering along the roads, as they are the ones handing the waste over to them.

“You have a lot of homeless people transporting garbage, but the real culprits are the people who give these homeless individuals the garbage to dispose of. According to the regulations, they are culpable and can also be charged.”

Narine also addressed the horse carts used to dispose of garbage.

“You see folks cutting down trees and giving horse-drawn carts to dispose of garbage. Now, horse-drawn carts are not accepted at the landfill, so ultimately, you are contributing to the littering problem. Those people will take whatever you give them –whether it’s a tree or something else – and dispose of it in any open spot.”

“The JV is firmly of the view that the Corentyne Block Petroleum Agreement remains in place. The JV recognises that recent comments from certain Government officials have created confusion amongst stakeholders, which have materially affected the JV and caused substantial harm to the JV’s efforts to develop the Corentyne Block,” the missive stated.

Further, it related that CGX and Frontera are exploring ways to amicably resolve this matter through negotiations.

“The JV is reviewing all alternatives to safeguard its interest in the Corentyne block and Guyana and has sent the Government of Guyana a letter activating a 60-day period for the parties to the Corentyne Block Petroleum Agreement to make all reasonable efforts to amicably resolve all disputes via negotiation, as provided for in the Corentyne Block Petroleum Agreement.”

However, while the Vice President said he has not seen the letter from the JV partners, he noted that the Guyana Government is ready to go to arbitration court to settle the matter.

“You can’t negotiate on something that you actually don’t have any longer. As far as we’re concerned, and the legal advice is that the licence lapsed because of the conditions under the licence and the timeline for the licence itself… We’re not worried about it going to court… We believe we have a strong case,” Jagdeo asserted.

In 2021-2022, CGX Energy Inc, a Canadabased oil and gas company, had said it had successfully drilled the Kawa-1 well in the eastern channel sand complex of the northern segment of the Corentyne Block. However, the company has since not progressed towards fully developing the potential of the Block.

Then in 2023, the joint

venture partners successfully drilled the Wei-1 well, the second well in the Corentyne Block, as part of their appraisal programme for the Kawa-1 discovery, which ended on June 28, 2024. That drilling exercise fulfilled the operators’ obligation under Phase Two of

had stated Government would not allow CGX to play with Guyana and if the joint venture partners wanted to pursue a development offshore, then they needed to detail that project and prove financing prospects.

It was subsequently reported that CGX and

the Second Renewal Period of the original 10-year licence.

Back in June, CGX and Frontera announced that they had submitted a ‘Notice of Potential Commercial Interest’ for the Wei-1 discovery to the Guyana Government, which preserves their interests in the Petroleum Prospecting Licence for the Corentyne Block.

However, that move was seen as a last-ditch effort by the joint venture partners to avoid having to relinquish their acreage in the Block, so the Guyana Government withheld approval.

Based on reports, if the Notice of Potential Commercial Interest had been approved by the Government, it would have allowed the joint venture partners to have an appraisal period to conduct an assessment of the commercial viability of the discovery. If it is determined that there is commercial viability, this would be declared to the Government and pave the way for the operators to apply for a production licence before the appraisal period ends.

Previously, VP Jagdeo

Frontera had approached US-based investment bank Houlihan Lokey, as they explore strategic options to develop the Corentyne Block.

In an August 7 press release on its Financial Statements for the second quarter of 2024, CGX said the JV partners have been working with the Guyana Government on moving forward.

“[We] have engaged in regular, constructive and collaborative conversations [with the Guyana Government] throughout the Joint Venture's tenure on the Corentyne block, including discussions regarding conditions and timing under which further activities could be performed by the Joint Venture in the Corentyne Block. The Joint Venture, with support from investment bank and capital markets experts Houlihan Lokey, continues to actively pursue strategic options to unlock the potential of the Corentyne Block,” CGX had stated.

Already CGX has had to give up two other blocks offshore Guyana, along with parts of the Corentyne Block, after failing to develop them as per its agreement with the Guyana Government. (G8)

Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore

Kawa-1 and Wei-1 wells.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Regional

Venezuela releases dozens of detainees arrested after July’s contested election

Venezuelan authorities said on Thursday that they have released 103 persons this week who had been arrested amid anti-Government protests following July’s contested presidential election.

President Nicolás Maduro was proclaimed the winner of the July 28 vote by the Government-aligned electoral authority and supreme court even though both bodies have refused to release ballot-box level voting records to back up the claim. Raucous street protests erupted hours after the initial claim that Maduro had won.

Shortly after the election, the Opposition uploaded to a website thousands

of scanned copies of voting machine receipts their observers obtained that they say prove their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, won a landslide victory.

Maduro had said that some 2000 persons were arrested in the post-election protests.

Earlier this week, Opposition political party Vente Venezuela said three of its regional leaders had been arrested.

The party is led by the South American country’s most prominent Opposition Leader, Maria Corina Machado. Last January, the country’s top court ratified a block to her own plans to run for President.

The Government’s citizen security office an-

nounced that this week’s prisoner release followed a request by Maduro “to review all the cases concerning acts of violence and crimes committed in the framework of the election”, according to a statement read on State television.

Last month, the Attorney General’s Office said 225 detainees were granted “freedom measures”. But most of them must appear in court every 30 days, which rights groups say does not constitute full freedom.

The protests left 28 persons dead and almost 200 injured while some 500 properties were destroyed, including schools and health centres, according to Attorney General Tarek Saab. (Reuters)

Trinidad: Griffith questions

Persad-Bissessar’s motives behind ‘alliance’ talks

National Transformation Alliance (NTA) political leader Gary Griffith has questioned what he described as an attempt by United National Congress (UNC) political leader Kamla PersadBissessar to fool the population into believing the UNC is forming a genuine political alliance with other entities to win the next general election.

Persad-Bissessar was scheduled to meet with representatives of the Progressive Empowerment Party (PEP); Movement for National Development (MND); Oilfield Workers Trade Union (OWTU); Congress of the People (COP); HOPE (Honesty Opportunity Performance Empowerment) and the Public Services Association (PSA) at the UNC’s headquarters in Chaguanas on December 12.

The PEP has aligned itself with the UNC, but has not formally announced it is forming an election alliance with it.

The MND is led by former UNC Attorney General Garvin Nicholas.

At Labour Day celebrations in Fyzabad on June 19, OWTU President General

Ancel Roget and PSA President Leroy Baptiste spoke about a national front alliance between the labour movement and political parties opposed to the PNM, including the UNC.

The NTA was not included in the meeting. In a statement before the meeting, Griffith said, “Amazing that pop-up parties have now become relevant (to the UNC).”

He added, “It is also amusing that a party that said the nastiest things about her during and after local government elections, and promised to do everything to ensure UNC never gets into government, she wants to work with. Yet another party (NTA) that worked with her during local government elections and sent official correspondence to her to meet, she has refused. Not surprising.”

The NTA had an alliance with the UNC for last August’s local government elections, which ended in a seven-seven tie between the PNM and UNC.

While it won no districts in those elections, the NTA got an alderman on the Diego Martin Borough Corporation. Griffith and Persad-

Bissessar have fallen out since February, when PersadBissessar accused smaller parties of piggybacking on the UNC’s resources and doing nothing to help the UNC.

The rift between them widened in September when Persad-Bissessar criticised Griffith’s performance as Commissioner of Police from 2018-2021.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Lula has head drain removed after 2nd surgery, doctors say

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had a drain removed from his head on Thursday evening, his doctors said, as he recovers from emergency surgery earlier this week to relieve bleeding in his skull.

Lula remains “lucid and speaking normally”, the doctors said in a new medical note, adding the drain was removed without complications.

Lula’s condition has raised doubts about the President’s intention to run for re-election in 2026, but a senior aide said on Thursday he will be the ruling Workers Party candi-

date.

Lula, 79, is expected to be discharged from São Paulo’s Sirio-Libanes Hospital early next week, when he might resume his presidential activities, his personal doctor, Roberto Kalil Filho, told reporters earlier in the day.

Lula remains under intensive care treatment, according to the latest medical note.

Doctors operated on the leftist leader for about two hours on Tuesday to drain bleeding between his brain and meningeal membrane, which they said was linked to a fall at his home in late October.

“It was a preventive procedure,” said Rogerio Tuma, a neurologist, adding that it would sharply reduce the likelihood of a new hematoma. Brazil’s presidential spokesman Paulo Pimenta, meanwhile, stated that Lula will be on the ballot in October 2026. In an interview with CNN Brasil, Pimenta rejected criticism that Lula’s health and age would be obstacles for him to seek a fourth term. Lula, who is currently serving a third non-consecutive term, will be 81 by the next presidential election.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Fireworks blast in Mexico injures 30 at Virgin of Guadalupe event

Afireworks explosion in Mexico injured at least 30 persons on Thursday during the Virgin of Guadalupe festivities at a church in the state of Guerrero, local authorities said.

Three children, who were seriously injured in the explosion in the town of Tlalchapa, were airlifted to a specialised hospital.

On December 12 every year, Mexico celebrates the day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, a national religious icon. While millions of Catholic pilgrims converge on the Basilica in Mexico City, most local churches also hold individual celebrations.

“The state government is providing facilities to airlift three minors who were seriously injured in the massive pyrotechnics explosion,” it added in a statement.

State Governor Evelyn Salgado said on X she was monitoring the children’s transfer to a specialised hospital.

People who suffered minor burns and hearing dam-

age were also transferred to different hospitals in the region.

Mexican celebrations are commonly accompanied by use of fireworks and other pyrotechnics. Health officials have warned residents to take precautions, particularly with children.

Edmundo Roman Pinzon, the former head of the highest court in Mexico’s Guerrero state, home to Acapulco, was gunned down on Wednesday afternoon in his car, according to images of the crime scene shared in local media reports.

Guerrero’s security ministry and attorney general’s offices announced investigations into the murder.

Meanwhile, a senior judge was assassinated in the Mexican resort city of Acapulco on Wednesday a day after the country’s president convened security officials there to address a wave of violence.

(Excerpts from Reuters)

Morris Dixon leads choir as JLP rallies around PM Holness

Cabinet member

Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon on Wednesday led a Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) chorus in defence of Prime Minister Andrew Holness following the latest Integrity Commission (IC) report which they said unfairly tried to tarnish his reputation.

Responding to a question at the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, Morris Dixon said the latest report from the IC was personally troubling as there was no reason for the PM to be singled out.

“I personally feel really bad about what is happening and I tell you why, because I

see someone who is working really, really hard for a country and who I see his reputation being tarnished month after month after month. And what does he do? He gets up every day and holds all of us in Cabinet accountable…he keeps pushing us [saying] ‘our country needs you to do more’,” said Morris Dixon.

“This is someone who I admire and this is someone who I would love to see more leaders like this in our country — leaders who are thinking big, leaders who in spite of any challenges, whether it’s personal challenges to them, or challenges to our country like a pandemic, get up and

lead and lead us well, and he has been doing that in spite of everything that has been thrown at him and that says a lot about him and about his commitment to our country,” added Morris Dixon.

When asked if the Prime Minister can effectively lead the Government when his name has been linked to so many adverse IC findings, Morris Dixon pointed to how Holness led the country through the COVID-19 pandemic, how well the economy is being managed, and the achievement of a new low unemployment rate of 3.6 per cent.

“He is the one that has

been steering us in terms of relooking the way we do infrastructure. When we look around our country, it looks completely different. If you ask any visitor who has not been to Jamaica for a while how they feel about Jamaica when they come here, they say it looks like a very different place and it is a good thing and all of that has been led by our prime minister and so this is an individual who has given his life to supporting Jamaica in our dream of becoming a country that is seen as meeting its potential,” declared Morris Dixon. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Relatives of Venezuelans detained during protests challenging the presidential election results, protest outside the public prosecutor’s headquarters in Caracas, Venezuela, December 9, 2024 (Reuters/Gaby Oraa photo)

People stand behind a police cordon as security authorities work at the crime scene where the former head of the highest court in Mexico’s Guerrero state, Judge Edmundo Roman Pinzon, was gunned down (Reuters/Javier Tinoco photo)

Around the World

OOIL NEWS

Oil settles flat; markets weigh IEA surplus forecast, rate cut optimism

il prices settled close to unchanged on Thursday, pressured by a forecast for ample supply in the oil market, but supported by rising expectations of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut.

Brent crude futures settled down 11 cents, or 0.15 per cent, to US$73.41 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were down 27 cents, or 0.38 per cent, at US$70.02.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) made a slight upward revision to its demand outlook for next year, but still expected the oil market to be comfortably supplied. On Wednesday, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting States (OPEC) cut its demand growth forecast for 2024 for the fifth straight month.

"If you look at the actual data, the IEA is saying that the glut they predicted should be happening right this minute," said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group.

Global oil inventories fell by 39.3 million barrels in October as low refinery activity coincided with a rise in global oil demand, data from IEA showed.

In the US, inflation rose slightly in November, in line with economists' expectations. Investors broadly expect the Fed to cut rates again, feeding optimism about economic growth and energy demand.

"The inflation report creates a lot of comfort. It could have been better, but it seems to be low enough for the Fed to reduce rates at the next meeting," said Bjarne Schieldrop, chief commodities analyst at SEB.

In the world's top oil consumer, the US, gasoline and distillate inventories rose by more than expected last week, Energy Information Administration (EIA) data showed.

Global oil demand rose at a slower-than-expected rate this month, but has remained resilient, JPMorgan analysts said in a note.

Chinese crude imports grew annually for the first time in seven months in November, up more than 14 per cent from a year earlier.

In the Middle East, Iran agreed to tougher monitoring by the United Nations nuclear watchdog at its Fordow site dug into a mountain after it greatly accelerated uranium enrichment to close to weapons grade there, putting pressure on prices. (Reuters)

Israel kills at least 66 Palestinians in Gaza, strikes post office used as shelter

An Israeli strike killed at least 30 Palestinians and wounded 50 others who were sheltering in a post office in central Gaza Strip, bringing the death toll on Thursday in the enclave to 66.

With no sign of let-up in the 14-month-old conflict, the strike hit a postal facility in Nuseirat camp where displaced families had sought refuge and also damaged several nearby houses, medics told Reuters.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Nuseirat is one of the Gaza Strip’s eight historic camps originally for Palestinian refugees from the 1948 war around the establishment of Israel. Today, it is part of a dense urban area crowded with displaced people from throughout the enclave.

Earlier on Thursday, two Israeli strikes in southern Gaza killed 13 Palestinians who Gaza medics and Hamas said were part of a force protecting humanitar-

ian aid trucks. Israel's military said they were Hamas militants trying to hijack the shipment.

Many of those killed in the attacks on Rafah and Khan Younis had links to Hamas, according to sources close to the group.

The Israeli military said in a statement the two air-

strikes aimed to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid and accused Hamas members of planning to prevent the aid from reaching Gaza civilians who need it.

The statement said the Hamas members aimed to hijack the aid "in support of continuing terrorist activity".

Armed gangs have repeatedly hijacked aid trucks, and Hamas has formed a task force to confront them.

The Hamas-led forces have killed over two dozen members of the gangs in recent months, Hamas sources and medics said.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia inches ahead in eastern Ukraine as Trump warns of aid cuts to Kyiv

Ukraine’s president has sharply raised his demand for air defence systems, highlighting how much Russia has intensified the air war in recent months.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday said Ukraine needed a dozen additional Patriot systems to insulate its economy from the war.

“Ten or twelve additional Patriot systems for Ukraine will ensure [that]…

Blinken meets Erdogan as forces backed by US, Turkey clash in Syria

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken arrived in Turkey on Thursday for talks focused on a critical aspect of establishing stability in Syria: clashes in the north of the country between US-backed Kurdish forces and Turkeybacked rebels.

Blinken met President Tayyip Erdogan at Ankara's Esenboga Airport after visiting Jordan on his first trip to the region since Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's Government was ousted on Sunday.

Erdogan and Blinken discussed the latest developments in Syria, with Erdogan calling on the international community to work together for the reconstruction of institutions in Syria,

the Turkish presidency said in a statement.

Erdogan also told Blinken that Turkey would take preventive measures in Syria for its national security against all organisations it deems as terrorists, the statement said, adding that Ankara would not allow any weakness in the fight against Islamic State.

Blinken noted the shared interest of the US and Turkey in supporting a Syrian-led political transition to an accountable and inclusive government, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.

He emphasised the need to ensure the coalition to defeat Islamic State can continue to execute its critical

mission, Miller also said.

Blinken will meet Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan today.

NATO allies Washington and Ankara supported Syrian rebels during the 13year civil war, but their interests notably clashed when it came to one of the rebel factions - the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.

The SDF is the main ally in a U.S. coalition against Islamic State militants. It is spearheaded by the People's Protection Units (YPG), which Ankara sees as an extension of Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants that it outlaws and who have fought the Turkish state for 40 years.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

no [glide bombs], no missiles, any ballistic missile, etc, will be able to hit the civilian infrastructure of Ukraine, the energy sector, our hospitals, schools, universities,” Zelenskyy posted on the Telegram messaging app.

“People will return to normal life, and from abroad too. Children will go to schools, universities. The economy will work.”

In April Zelenskyy had said Ukraine needed a minimum of seven Patriot systems to provide air cover, but Russia has since raised the number of missiles, drones and huge glide bombs launched against Ukraine.

Last week, Zelenskyy said, Russia used almost 500 glide bombs, whose warhead ranges from 250kg (550lbs) to three tonnes, more than

400 strike drones, and almost 20 missiles of various types against Ukraine’s front lines and civilian infrastructure.

“This daily terror and this war cannot remain the problem of one people,” he said.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Biden issues 39 presidential pardons and commutes 1500 sentences

US President Joe Biden has issued presidential pardons to 39 Americans convicted of non-violent crimes, and commuted the sentences of nearly 1500 others.

The White House described it as the most acts of presidential clemency issued in a single day. It comes after Biden made the decision to pardon his own son, Hunter Biden.

The US Constitution decrees that a president has

the broad "power to grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the United States, except in cases of impeachment".

Announcing the move, Biden said those pardoned had "shown successful rehabilitation and have shown commitment to making their communities stronger and safer".

The White House released a pardon list of 39 people that said the individuals had committed ei -

ther a "non-violent offence" or a "non-violent drug offence". It did not name the specific crimes they were convicted of committing.

Several of those pardoned were individuals who had been released from prison. Many were veterans or they had become community leaders or advocates.

Biden promised "more steps in the weeks ahead".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

People inspect the zone following an Israeli strike at a post office that was being used as a shelter in Nuseirat in central Gaza Strip, December 12, 2024 (Reuters/Khamis Said photo)

Check out groups of interest, attend festive events that offer good connections and focus on personal growth, socializing and taking better care of yourself. Travel and educational pursuits will lead to new beginnings.

Take a stance and make your voice heard to avoid missing an opportunity. An honest answer will buy you time to follow your heart and determine what works best.

A playful attitude will attract positive attention. Opportunities will come your way if you are open regarding what you can do and how you see yourself moving forward.

Use your intuition, and you’ll discover how to get others to do and see things your way. Get the facts and dismiss uncertainty. Put your wish list together and follow through.

Raise the bar and go for the gold. Use your energy constructively, and you’ll get the support you need. Pay attention to how much you consume to avoid aftereffects.

Keep your emotions hidden until you feel comfortable sharing your beliefs. Reconnecting with someone from your past will be enlightening. Help those facing tough times and make a difference.

Get out, meet and greet, and enjoy social events in your community. Taking the time to express your feelings and share your thoughts will resonate with someone you encounter.

You are overdue for a change. Share your dreams with someone special to see if you are heading in the same direction. Protect against injury or situations that can jeopardize your health.

Time passes fast, but to act without adequate preparation will set you back. Protect your assets and possessions from anyone wanting to take advantage of you. Take control and leave nothing incomplete.

Home improvements will make your place more inviting. Seeking out people who make you smile and stimulate your mind will lead to lively conversations that offer plenty to think about.

High energy will help you handle pressing year-end matters. The peace of mind you get from taking care of business will allow you the freedom you deserve to enjoy life and festive events.

Dig in and get things done before someone criticizes or complains. Keep life simple and your plans secret until everything is in place. Discipline and living up to your promises will help control the outcome.

National Schools Table Tennis Championships…

With over 17 school teams and over 150 student-athletes participating, the Region Six edition of the CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited/Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA)/Ministry of Education (MoE) National Schools Teams and Singles Table Tennis Championships were deemed a resounding success for the sport in the Ancient County. The event was coordinated under the stewardship of International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) level two coach and national Paralympic champion Gibran Safaraz, who oversaw the Corentyne side of activities. He received assistance from ITTF level one coach Osafo Dos Santos, who coordinated the New Amsterdam leg. Safaraz is also a coach attached to the Ministry of Education priority programme, which provides coaching intervention to schools in the lower, middle and upper Corentyne.

Region 6 competition hosted

A look at the participants in Region Six’s edition of the National Tables

The Championships saw teams from the length and breadth of Region Six, namely, New Amsterdam, Canje, Rose Hall, and Lower, Middle and Upper Corentyne participating for regional honours. As such, competitors from schools such as Berbice High, New Amsterdam Multilateral, Canje Secondary, Berbice Educational Institute, Vryman’s Erven and Tutorial Academy had their students competing.

Meanwhile, Skeldon Estate Community Centre and JC Chandisingh Secondary served as the venues for schools from the Corentyne, namely Port Mourant Secondary, Tagore Secondary, St Winifred Secondary, JC Chandisingh, Skeldon High, Skeldon Line Path, Central Corentyne High, Lower Corentyne High, Corentyne Comprehensive, Manchester High, and Black Bush Secondary. Played over four days, the

Showdown of Champions Horse Race meet…

Stormy Victory, Morning Colors stepping up for Simply Royal Stables

As we round the final bend before the Port Mourant Turf Club’s Showdown of Champions Horse Race meet, the Simply Royal Racing Stables is looking to put in its best final furlong.

Owner Dennis DeRoop told Guyana Times Sport recently that they were hard at work with two horses – Stormy Victory and Morning Colors.

“They are doing well. I took them both to training early this [yesterday] morning and they are both in good shape and ready for competition,” DeRoop said.

Both E class horses are in the co-feature event according to DeRoop, who was upbeat about the weekend.

According to him, both were getting on well with the surface and he expected them to be fighting to the line.

“Both of them should give a good performance. They have been exercising well. Especially Stormy Victory to last race to

now has really been advancing in training,” he added.

The stable owner/trainer continued, “Since the last race, we kept them in training and we’re able to see improvements. They only came down in August and of course, they needed to acclimatise to the conditions here.”

Looking at the overall year for the Simply Royal Stables, DeRoop contended, “We started well the first half of the year, the last few races not well, but we are hoping to finish the year on a high. We have three races more to finish the year and we are hoping for some victories.”

The day’s feature event, the Metro Mile, sponsored by Metro Office Supplies, will headline the eight-race card.

The 1600m event will have $4 million in prizes with the owner of the winning horse pocketing $2 million. The race is open to all horses.

The co-feature event will be the E-Class non-winners in

Guyana and F-Class & Lower with a combined purse of $2 million for the 1300m dash.

The Two-Year-Old Guyana and West Indies-bred horses race over 1200m are sure to attract the attention of horseracing fans along with a race for Three-Year-Old Guyana-bred horses over 1700m.

Other races include the G-Class horses over 1200m, H-Class Non-Winners of 2024, which is open to Guyana-bred horses and will run for 1300m, with another 1600m race set for all K-Class and L-Class horses.

A 1300m sprint is also carded for J-, K- and L-Class Maidens.

The event is also sponsored by J’s Supermarket, Jumbo Jet, Shi-Oil, AJM, GUYAMERICA Construction, Rohan Auto Spares and Armco, OBL, KP Jagdeo General Contractor, Permaul Trading, Laka Rambrich Rice Farm, Big G Sawmill & Lumber Yard, and Shook Shivmangal & friends of USA.

Reece

Girls’ 15 Years and Under

1st: Lavenna Wong

2nd: Seandra Carrington

3rd: Nicloe Alli and Azumi Reece

Boys’ 13 Years and Under 1st: Josiah Bobb

2nd: Malik Williams

Girls’ Team Championships

1st: Berbice Educational Institute “A” Championships 2nd: New Amsterdam Multi

Championships formed the platform for talent identification and incubation.

The competition featured action in boys’ and girls’ 19 years and under singles, girls’ and boys’ 17 years and under singles, girls’ and boys’ 15 years and under singles, and girls’ and boys’ 13 years and under singles and for the first time, male and female teachers’ singles.

Results of the Region 6

New Amsterdam Edition:

Boys’ 19 Years and Under 1st: Daniel Arthur

2nd: Benjamin Mohammed 3rd: Fead Hussein/Ray Jaisingh

Boys’ 15 Years and Under 1st: Muhamad Ramsamy

2nd: Ethan Azar

3rd: Nathias Jordan/ Latrell Kilkenny

Girls’ 17 Years and Under 1st: Sarah Rai Champion

2nd: Tiffany Lord

3rd: Nicloe Alli and Azumi

3rd: Berbice High School/ Berbice Educational Institute “B”

Boys’ Team Championships 1st: Berbice Educational Institute “A” 2nd: Berbice Educational Institute “B”

3rd: Berbice High/ Vryman’s Erven

Teachers’ Championships Female La Rose emerges champion Reynolds 2nd place Sabitrie 3rd place

Teachers’ Championships Male

1st: Dane Johnson

2nd: Jordon Conway

3rd: Z Moakan and Damion Da Silva

Results of the Region 6 Upper and Lower Corentyne edition

Girls’ 13 Years and Under Singles

1st: Prisca

Girls’ 15 Years and Under Singles

1st: Prisca (Manchester Secondary)

2nd: Vidya (Black Bush Sec)

Boys’ 15 Years and Under Singles

1st: Jamyle (Black Bush Sec)

2nd: Devon (Manchester Secondary)

Boys’ 19 Years and Under Singles

1st: Christopher Winifred gaskin

2nd: Michael Winifred Gaskin

Boys’ 13 Years and Under Singles

1st: Devon (Manchester Secondary)

2nd: Troy (Manchester Secondary)

Boys’ 19 Years and Under Teams

1st: Manchester Secondary (Michael and Christopher)

2nd: Manchester Secondary (Shaquan and Korwin)

Boys’ 15 Years and Under Teams

1st: Black Bush Secondary (Jamyle and Jeseie)

2nd: Manchester Secondary (Devon and Paulston)

Boys’ 13 Years and Under Teams

1st: Manchester Secondary (Devon and Paulston)

2nd: Manchester Secondary (Troy and Jonathan)

Titan Bowl and Tertiary Knockout tournaments rescheduled to start today

The Titan Bowl XIII and third staging of the Tertiary Knockout tournament, which were set to start on Thursday, will now begin today, Friday, December 13, and play on consecutive days to its conclusion on Monday, December 16, at the National Gymnasium, with the participation of 17 schools.

This announcement was made by Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) Co-Director Chris Bowman as he confirmed that this decision was made following a request from the National Sports Commission to allow the futsal tournament that is ongoing at the National Gymnasium to continue on Thursday, December 12.

He Indicated, “Nevertheless, reluctantly, we have agreed to start a day later in order to avoid unnecessary conflict and the inconvenience of having to set up the playing area (twice) – moving the hoops into position, tape marking the court, court and facility branding, and sanitation protocols only to have this undo for futsal the next day, and then to do it all over again.

A glimpse of what to expect today

“We simply don’t have the resources, even to move the hoops into position. It’s a favour, courtesy of Philip Fernandes, sending workmen from John Fernandes Ltd to assist. Not to mention the burden this has already placed on the logistics of team travels, transportation, meals, accommodation, etc.”

The first game would see a rerun of the National Schools Basketball Festival Girls final four matches in which Kwakwani Secondary School took on President’s College

and Kwakwani walked away victorious by a one-point margin followed by The Bishops’ High taking on Marian Academy. This will mark the sixth and seventh tournaments for the year, along with the development academy and summer programmes organised by YBG for the year, and would not be possible without the sponsorship from lead sponsor Francis-LauBoyce Construction Co Ltd, ENET, John Fernandes, and the National Sports Commission.

Stormy Victory

Morning Colors

Tennis Championships

National Futsal Championships…

Gold is Money, Kitty Hustlers and Vryheid’s Lust through to next round

THenrito managed Region Seven’s only goal, Andrew Murray led the charge for Gold is Money with a hattrick, alongside braces off the boots of Randolph Wagner and Jamal Pedro. The goals kept pouring in with Shamar Koulen, Dexroy Adams, and Bryan Wharton netting one each for the 10-1 victory.

The National Futsal Championships were scheduled to continue on Thursday evening with another five games on the cards, while the next playing day is Saturday.

As the Round of 32 in the tournament approaches, a number of teams have already secured their spot, those are: Sparta Boss, Festival City, Bent Street B, Alexander Village, Unstoppable, Albouystown A, Team Family, Stabroek Ballers, North East, Buxton, Espanyol, Laing Avenue, Timehri Hustlers, Kitty Hustlers, Vryheid’s Lust, Back Circle, Bent Street, Spaniard, Stabroek B, Show Stoppers, and Gold is Money.

CWI unveils 15-man squad for Bangladesh T20Is

Owen Juene and Christopher King netted for Trini Gunners in regulation but failed to add to the tally when their team needed them most in extra time.

Another extra-time contest saw Timehri Hustlers edging Tiger Bay, 2-1. After being deadlocked at the end of

he renowned Gold is Money, Kitty Hustlers and Vryheid’s Lust are among five teams who booked passage to the Round of 32 in the National Futsal Championships on Tuesday night, with massive wins in the straight knockout tournament. The first-round action continued at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue where Kitty Hustlers bagged the first win of the night, defeating Lodge 6-2. Darren Osbourne netted a rare glut for the winners, finding the back of the net five times while his teammate, Joshua Bentick scored once. For the losers, Simeon Lovell and Christopher Whiter scored one goal each. It took extra time to separate Vryheid’s Lust and Trini Gunners out of Campbellville. The former prevailed 6-2, with a hat-trick from Sean Semple, two goals from Aaron Cosbort and one off the boots of Akeem Farley after regulation time had ended with both teams locked on 2-2.

regulation time, Shemiah

Samuels and Tafon Reynolds pierced the net for Timehri Hustlers while Wendel Austin registered Tiger Bay’s consolation goal.

A team effort from Laing Avenue saw them overcoming Finishers, 4-1 in the penultimate contest of the night. Terrence Nero, Shamar Carrington, Isiah Scott, and Orlando Wickette added one goal each to Laing Avenue’s tally while Shawn Steele was responsible for Finishers’ lone strike.

Then, the final game of the night turned out to be a goal fest as Gold is Money sent 10 goals past Region Seven’s Paruima. While Kenny

Anight of nail-biting games was played at the National Gymnasium in the Guyana Basketball Federation One Guyana Tournament as Plaisance Guardians and McDoom/Prospect Kobras ended the night on a win.

The opening game saw Plaisance Guardians show their class as they handed Black Caimans their first defeat. The Guardians dominated from the jump ball, establishing a lead in the first quarter with the scoreline reading 18-11.

The dominance from the Guardians would continue as they managed to find creative ways to the hoop on the offensive end, scoring

19 points while the Caimans were limited to 10 points.

The Caimans seemed to ignite their accelerator and came back after the half, in the third quarter, putting up 23 points while the Guardians were restricted to 21 points with the scorecard reading at the end of period 58-45.

The Plaisance Guardians showed their consistency and ability to attack the Caimans’ defence as they started the campaign on a high with a 28-point victory, 81-53.

Closing off the night’s action, McDoom/Prospect Kobras managed to upset Masters as they showed that fundamentals are key to

dominating the court.

The first quarter ended with Masters leading the game 18-9, but McDoom/ Prospect, with their ability to run at their defences, managed to reduce the ninepoint lead to four points going into the half. The Kobras fought back with determination for a scoreline of 30-26.

Coming back from the half, in the third quarter, the Kobras managed to establish a one-point lead 43-42, with the offensive arsenal of the Masters slowing down as stamina faded .

The Kobras continued to enlarge the margin and secured a 10-point victory against the Masters with the score reading 52-62.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the squad for the upcoming three-match CG United T20 International (T20I) home series against Bangladesh, which will be held from December 15 to December 19, 2024, at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The series, which will be the final series for the year on home soil, will see the return of the experienced Johnson Charles, who has been sidelined for the past two series due to injury. Additionally, Keacy Carty has earned his first T20I call-up following an impressive Caribbean Premier League season, strengthening the middle-order options for the West Indies. The team will be captained by Rovman Powell, with Brandon King as Vice Captain.

Head Coach Daren Sammy welcomed the inclusion of Carty, who notched a maiden century against England in November, emphasising the importance of depth in the batting line-up for a competitive series.

“He has shown us that he could be a batter in that format, and playing against Bangladesh, a team we cannot take for granted, we need all hands on deck,” Sammy said.

Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford will not be available for this series as they are fulfilling commitments in the Big Bash League. Akeal Hosein will also miss the final match of the series for similar reasons.

The squad was selected with a clear focus on continuity and preparation for the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup. Sammy added, “The squad was carefully selected with the players available to us, and I believe this is our most settled squad with the experience needed to win championships.”

Sammy expressed the importance of closing the year on a high, particularly for fans in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“We all would love to give the Caribbean people a good

pre-Christmas gift by winning the series to close off the year, especially for the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines who didn’t get to see the West Indies team during the World Cup,” he said.

The West Indies CG

United T20I squad reads: Captain Rovman Powell, Vice Captain Brandon King, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Justin Greaves, Terrance Hinds, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Obed McCoy, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer.

In addition, Jayden Seales replaces Akeal Hosein after the first two games of the series.

Team Management Unit (TMU):

Head Coach: Daren Sammy

Manager: Rawl Lewis

Assistant Coach (Bowling):

James Franklin

Assistant Coach (Fielding): Rayon Griffith

Assistant Coach (Batting): Floyd Reifer

Physiotherapist: Denis Byam

Strength & Conditioning

Coach: Ronald Rogers

Massage Therapist: Darc Browne

Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram

Media & Content Officer: Jerome Foster

West Indies v Bangladesh CG United T20I Home Series

Schedule: 1st T20I: December 15, 2024, Arnos Vale Stadium, St Vincent 2nd T20I: December 17,

2024, Arnos Vale Stadium, St Vincent 3rd T20I: December 19, 2024, Arnos Vale Stadium, St Vincent

A look at the futsal action at the National Gymnasium on Tuesday night

After a series win in the ODIs, West Indies will hunt a similar result in the T20Is

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2024

3rd ODI, Bangladesh tour of West

Indies

Debutant Jangoo, Carty help West Indies sweep ODI series 3-0

Amir Jangoo’s un beaten 104 and Keacy Carty’s 95 helped West Indies scale a 322-run chase against Bangladesh in St Kitts. They won the series 3-0 after Jangoo became the first West Indian in 46 years to score a century on One-Day International (ODI) debut. He guided the side in two fastpaced partnerships. It is also the fourth time that West Indies successfully chased a 300-plus target in ODIs.

Jangoo added 132 runs for the fifth wicket with Carty, and when West Indies lost two wickets in quick suc cession, he combined with Gudakesh Motie for an un finished 90-run partnership for the seventh wicket to take them home. Motie remained unbeaten on 44 off 31 balls, hitting three sixes and as many fours. Jangoo’s innings was resplendent with six fours and four sixes.

long, getting yorked in an attempted sweep in Nasum’s next over.

Bangladesh reached 321 for five on the back of four fifties. Mahmudullah and Jaker Ali added 150 runs in an unbroken sixth-wicket stand, a Bangladesh record. The team also struck 12 sixes in the innings, their second-most in ODIs. West Indies, however, had their own big-hitting show in the bank.

Brandon King picked up where he left off in the second ODI, as he cracked two fours and a six off Nasum Ahmed in the second over of

Hasan Mahmud then had Shai Hope caught at slip for three before Sherfane Rutherford and Carty stabilised the innings with a 55-run fourth-wicket stand. Taskin Ahmed dealt West Indies a further jolt by dismissing Rutherford for 30. Carty was steady at the other end, already having struck two fours. Afif Hossain dropped him on 22 before Carty went after the Bangladesh spinners in the middle overs. He struck Rishad Hossain for consecutive fours in the 18th over, before hammering Mehidy Hasan Miraz for a six and a four in the 21st over. Jangoo struck Nasum for three

ried Tanzid with a bouncer with the left-hander top-edging a pull shot. Litton’s horror run in ODIs continued when he edged a wide one to King at first slip.

Mehidy was positive from the onset, hitting five boundaries in the powerplay. Soumya, who was dropped on nought, opened up after the powerplay. He played the upper-cut against Romario Shepherd for a six,

four sixes.

Six overs after Soumya’s dismissal, Rutherford’s pinpoint throw from point found Mehidy short at the striker’s end as he fell for 77 off 73 balls. Rutherford then had Afif caught at the midwicket boundary for 15, as Bangladesh again lost two wickets in quick succession. But the last 20 overs belonged to Jaker and Mahmudullah. The pair had

cued one off Rishad, only to see substitute fielder Parvez Hossain Emon drop the chance while running back from mid-off. Rishad did dismiss Carty next ball, with Soumya Sarkar taking a low catch at point. He also took a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Roston Chase, but Jangoo’s miss

Chase and Motie for a six each in consecutive overs.

Immediately after Chase’s exit, Jangoo slogged Mehidy for his second six, before Motie and Jangoo struck Mahmud for a six each in the 43rd over. They struck one four each in the following over bowled by Taskin, before the pair com-

The day could have belonged to Bangladesh given how they batted. After a disastrous start, losing Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das in the third over to be reduced to 9 for 2, Soumya and Mehidy resurrected the innings with a 136-run third-wicket partnership. Alzarri Joseph hur-

Shortly after Soumya was dropped for a second time, on 45 by Jangoo, Mehidy struck debutant Jediah Blades for some maximums. Soumya added a four to take 16 runs off the over, before getting two more fours off his next. Soumya was on a roll when he struck Motie for his fourth six, but fell next ball when the left-arm spinner trapped him in front. Soumya’s 73 came at a run a ball, including six fours and

Bangladesh (50 ovs maximum)

Batting R Tanzid Hasan c Rutherford b Joseph 0

Soumya Sarkar lbw b Motie 73

Litton Das † c King b Joseph 0

Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c) run out (Rutherford) 77

Afif Hossain c King b Rutherford 15

Mahmudullah not out 84

Jaker Ali not out 62

Extras (lb 1, nb 2, w 7) 10

Total 50 Ov (RR: 6.42) 321/5

Did not bat: Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Nasum Ahmed

Fall of wickets: 1-9

(Tanzid Hasan, 2.2 ov), 2-9

(Litton Das, 2.4 ov), 3-145

(Soumya Sarkar, 23.3 ov), 4-171

(Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 29.3 ov), 5-171

(Afif Hossain, 30.3 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Alzarri Joseph 10-1-43-2

Jediah Blades 6-0-73-0

Romario Shepherd 10-1-65-0

Roston Chase 8-1-38-0

Gudakesh Motie 10-0-64-1

Sherfane Rutherford 6-1-37-1

far better. After Jaker struck his first two fours, Mahmudullah crashed Motie down the ground for his first six, before hitting Chase for his second, over long-off.

Jaker joined in the six hitting, when he slammed Shepherd over cover, followed by Mahmudullah dragging Rutherford from outside off to a six over square-leg. Bangladesh scored 59 runs in the last four overs, taking them to a strong total. It was ultimately not enough. (ESPNcricinfo)

Amir Jangoo played a matchwinning innings on ODI debut

Keacy Carty was instrumental in the chase

Jaker Ali brought up his maiden ODI fifty

Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Soumya Sarkar added 136 runs for the third wicket