Guyana Times - Friday, February 9, 2024.pdf

Sky High Aviation enters Guyanese market with weekly flights to DR

P14 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5637

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Guyana “vigilant and militant” against threats to territory – Pres Ali ... says increased defence spending not for arms race but modernising military Page 3

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Opposition files suit to remove VP Jagdeo from Parliament P20 ... “We will deal with that accordingly” – VP Jagdeo

Govt, Opposition submit nominees for Constitutional Reform Commission

Essequibo P19 hire car driver nabbed with cocaine, ganja

BOSAI workers stumble upon human skeletal remains P19

Page 7

Attorney General & Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

Parliamentary Affairs & Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

Minister within OPM Kwame McCoy

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai

Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes

Opposition MP Ganesh Mahipaul

Economist Sherwood Lowe

Attorney-at-Law Timothy Jonas, SC

GECOM Commissioner Vincent Alexander

Several homeless PM advocates after fire for decisive devastates global 4 houses in leadership in Ruimveldt sustainable development – reiterates Guyana’s commitment to transitioning towards clean energy squatting area World Sustainable Development Summit

Page 10

Page 11

Graduate teachers set to receive 50% salary hike within PPP’s 1st term – VP Jagdeo ... says no financial audits for GTU since 1989 raises eyebrows

See story on page 9

Motorcyclist drops 15kg ganja while escaping from cops P19

Digicel to expand fibre-optic P14 network across Guyana – CEO ... to pump $17M into humanitarian effort as company celebrates 17 years in Guyana

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, February 9 – 03:30h-05:00h and Saturday, February 10 – 04:00h-05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, February 9 – 16:05h-17:35h and Saturday, February 10 – 16:50h-18:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunshine is expected during the day interrupted by light rain showers in the midmorning to mid-afternoon hours . Clear to partly cloudy skies are expected at night.

Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 3.12 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 16:30h reaching a maximum

height of 2.76 metres.

Low Tide: 10:03h and 22:32h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.42 metre.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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Guyana “vigilant and militant” against threats to territory – Pres Ali …says increased defence spending not for arms race but modernising military

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hile Guyana remains committed to the principle of non-aggression, President Dr Irfaan Ali has also made it clear that Guyana is vigilant and militant against any threats, including to the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

During the opening of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Annual Officers’ Conference on Thursday, President Ali, who is also the Commander-in-Chief, sent a clear message, noting that Guyana remained vigilant and militant against any threats to its territory.

These include threats to the EEZ, where ExxonMobil is both producing and exploring for oil. And it comes just days after Exxon had announced it would be drilling seven new wells in the Stabroek Block this year.

“Guyana is committed to the principle of non-aggression, but we remain vigilant and militant in the face of all and any threats. We must never be found blinking but ever ready to deter and resist any threat to our country.

“By investing in modernising our defence infrastructure and equipping our personnel with cutting-edge technology, we aim to create a force that is not only better prepared to address evolving security threats but also more effective in dealing with potential aggressors,” the President said.

President Ali noted that efforts to strengthen the capacity of the GDF, including the increased budgetary allocation of $42.2 billion this year, would continue. He further noted that these efforts were not to pursue a policy of military build-up but a policy of deterrence by maximising resources to the Force.

“I want to emphasise a crucial point. Our endeavours to strengthen the Guyana Defence Force and elevate its capabilities are not driven by a desire to engage in an arms race with any nation. Very important,” the President explained.

“While we’re committed to recapitalising the Force and enhancing its capacity, we do not intend to stretch our financial resources excessively to match the military expenditures of our more formidable neighbour to the west. Our commitment lies not in outspending others but in strategic resource allocation that maximises our defence capabilities while maintaining fiscal responsibility.”

According to the Commander-in-Chief,

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Guyana is focused on cultivating a more agile and adaptable GDF. He explained that the Government intended to prioritise deterrence over military build-up.

“We cannot operate in today’s environment if we do not adapt to the technology that is available before us.

Especially when we have a small population with such large borders and a small defence force in human assets.

Technology then becomes even more critical,” he said.

Seven wells

Oil major ExxonMobil had announced plans to drill and appraise, in 2024, at least seven new wells within the Stabroek Block, including two within the western boundaries of the oil field. The two wells are the Trumpetfish and the Redmouth. Five of the wells are expected to guide the company in assessing the quantity and usability of the natural gas reserve in the Stabroek Block, particularly the eastern portion.

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge

said if the wells led to commercially-viable resources, the company could drill additional wells in the area.

These activities, especially the planned exploration west of the Essequibo River, raise questions about the US oil major’s posture towards the threats coming from Guyana’s western neighbour, Venezuela.

In recent times, Guyana has been boosting its defence capabilities through several initiatives, including robust engagements with global partners, such as the United States.

US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Air Force Commander, Major General Evan Pettus visited Guyana where fruitful discussions were had on several security matters, including with the GDF on its air domain awareness and collaboration on advancing Guyana’s airspace awareness capacity.

During a media briefing last Friday following his engagements with Guyanese officials, the Commander of the Air Force arm of SOUTHCOM was questioned about the steps taken to counter the narrative

being peddled by Venezuela that the US was setting up a military base in Guyana.

He dismissed the claims as rumours.

Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), Exxon’s local subsidiary, is the operator of the Stabroek Block, and holds a 45 per cent interest, while Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds a 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

However, Hess Corporation has agreed to merge with Chevron, and this transaction is expected to be closed in the first half of this year.

ExxonMobil currently has three Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels operating in Guyana’s Stabroek Block in waters offshore. The current production figures will be further buttressed by the Yellowtail and Uaru developments which are already underway, and anticipated to contribute 250,000 barrels of oil each following their respective start-up.

An application for the sixth development, the Whiptail Project, was submitted by the Stabroek Block operator, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), and its co-venturers.

This project is currently under review by the Government, and once approved, will see Guyana producing just over 1.2 million barrels of oil per day by 2027. (G-3)

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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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

"Celebrating Our Peoples and Our Prosperity"

L

ater this month, Guyana will be celebrating its Republican status, attained on February 23, 1970.

It remains an indelible part of this country’s history, and each year, colourful celebrations and the ceremonial hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead are undertaken to remind everyone of Guyana’s struggle to become an independent nation, and later gaining Republican status.

This year, we are celebrating Mashramani under the theme "Celebrating Our Peoples and Our Prosperity".

Except for the two years of interruption as a result of COVID-19, we have had spectacular children’s costume competitions, float parades, masquerade bands, and dancing in the streets to the accompaniment of steel pan music. This is in addition to the many calypso and chutney competitions that were held across the country.

We are very pleased to see that these competitions have already started countrywide.

All Guyanese should be excited and proud that our nation is celebrating 54 years as a Republic. As expected, many citizens are engaged in debates and discussions about the level of progress we have made as a country. No doubt, we would all agree that our development could have been further accelerated, had it not been for delays under the APNU/AFC Government. However, this should not cause us to lose sight of the many important achievements that were made over the past couple of decades or so.

Guyana is still a relatively young nation, and there is evidence that we have come a long way. Many of the developed countries took hundreds of years to achieve the level of development that they boast about, but this should not be an excuse for our leaders not to work hard enough to help our citizens achieve their dreams and aspirations.

For example, while there remain many challenges, over the past couple of decades or so, there have been significant improvements in the delivery of education and health care, among other social services. The housing boom, which started under the PPP/C Government, is regarded as a model in the Caricom region. Years ago, owning a home was just a dream for many Guyanese; today this has become reality, as quite many new housing schemes are opened up and existing ones are expanded and upgraded. In essence, home ownership has been made much easier.

There is still a far way to go, and now that we have oil and gas wealth, this would propel our development even faster and further. Continued efforts must therefore be made by our leaders and other development partners to ensure that more persons are provided with opportunities to raise their standards of living. In this regard, the PPP/C Government must be commended for their renewed efforts at generating wealth and creating jobs for citizens. As this publication stated before, with oil revenues to provide financing and natural gas to supply cheap electricity for the next three decades, Guyana is poised, through the strategic developmental choices of the PPP, to finally move from Third World status to First World status. Therefore, our leaders from all sides of the political divide must know that our children’s future cannot be realised if they walk separately and in different directions. This year’s celebrations should remind us that Mashramani is the symbolism of our oneness. It represents the desire of people of all races to cooperate; to sing, dance and revel together.

When we became a Republic, our aspiration was to crown our Independence with the status of full and complete nationhood, and to make our people sovereign.

Republicanism must therefore be viewed as a historic continuity of all that our ancestors stood for, struggled against, and hoped to achieve. It is hoped that every Guyanese, especially our leaders, would continue to pool their resources and talents, and work harder to further develop our communities and country as a whole.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips and President of India, Droupadi Murmu at her official residence, Rashtrapati Bhavan, in Delhi on Wednesday where discussions were had on several issues. During the meeting, the Indian President lauded Guyana's efforts and leadership in the areas of climate change, green energy, and sustainable development

Playing out one’s political agenda on an industrial platform Dear Editor, The GTU has called out teachers on a strike that they consider to be a "legitimate" cause. However, the facts are there to prove them blatantly wrong.

When I say the facts have proven them wrong, I am talking about a union that has called a strike when discussions are still in progress in the collective bargaining stage. If that does not make this strike illegal, what does? But when you have a political party hack standing as a union representative, this is the result.

The Government has held talks with the teachers' union, from which much headway has been made; but there is still more that has to be done. Like all sectors of our economy, it is an ongoing process; however, calling a strike is not one of them. What needs to be done is stop the politicking, let good sense prevail, and get back to the bargaining table. The strike will do the teachers no good, as well as the students who have to write the Grade 6 and CSEC Exams.

But let us take a quick but detailed look at what the GTU, through its politician General Secretary is saying: 1: She contends that GAWU was dealt more favourably by the PPP/C party when on strike than the GTU. Wrong!

Let me inform Miss McDonald that it took the PPP/C, when in opposition, to secure the severance package for the sugar workers after they were brutally fired from their jobs and the only means for sustenance, the sugar estates, were closed. This was done two years after they were severed. So, may I ask Miss McDonald how these workers, most of whom had families, existed during those two years?

2: McDonald keeps harping on the issue of sugar workers being disproportionately enriched while teachers can barely survive. Again, I ask the question: how were those sugar workers and their children to live during those two years when they had no work and no severance, which never happened to teachers?

The point is that when the PPP/C Government came into office, they had

two pressing problems to solve: getting the industry back on a sound and prosperous footing, while at the same time getting those workers back into the mainstream place where they can work and earn a decent living.

3: On the low-down, racist and tribalistic comment of the Sugar Industry being looked at in a favourable light because it is a workforce populated mainly by persons of Indian ancestry and a stronghold of the PPP/C. Well, let me educate Coretta: Sugar, as it stands has always -- I repeat, has always -been a beacon of hope and prosperity for all of Guyana. Could she give a sensible explanation as to why Burnham taxed sugar to bail out the Afro-Guyanese people in Linden? This is a documented fact wherein one industry was used to shore up the lives of another, and for which there was no reciprocity.

4: Staying on the same racist nonsense of Indo-Guyanese being singled out for special attention, then why was the uniformed groups' Christmas bonus taken away from them? Here again, another sector of workers that have a heavy presence of Afro-Guyanese were as it was told in no uncertain terms that they ought to be servile in their mentality, never to question "Massa PNC." What is more revealing is that it took the PPP/C to correct it.

These are the things McDonald needs to come to grips with before she blows hot air unnecessarily.

5: Isn't this the reason why the supposed industrial action has had such a low turnout? Make no mistake, that strike is seen as a political stunt by the PNC, which has failed miserably.

Those teachers who have stayed away from school are not -- I repeat, not -supporters of the strike, but have done so because of the threats meted out to them and the fear of vindictive actions by some heads who are heavily vested in the PNC's political vendetta. This is a serious issue that has to be addressed.

6: Coretta McDonald is again making a brazen attempt at becoming a thorn in the side of the Government.

What she could not achieve in

Parliament, she is now trying desperately to play out on the streets. She reiterated the sentiments of her party as Volda Lawrence had stated, "I am looking for people who look like me to give jobs in the Public Service."

In essence, McDonald is showing the public that some in the teaching service are theirs, and they will take to the streets. But this strike is a flop, and it continues to expose the diabolical plot of that party.

7: But McDonald is putting her foot in her mouth, in that it took a Dr Jagdeo to bail them out of their miserable state when "Their government" inhumanely ignored them. The triennium was in its fourth year (4) year when nothing was forthcoming from "Their Government" who had promised them 10%. Now divide 10 by 4 and you will get 2.5%, this is what the APNU/AFC Coalition gave teachers, which was also burdensomely taxed by Jordan. In essence, they got nothing!

Now that the PPP/C Government is in office, the GTU expects a windfall over and above every other sector in the economy. This is not going to happen, because each sector has to be developed proportionately; none having pre-eminence over the other.

The strike that is going on now is a desperate attempt by General Secretary Coretta McDonald to score political points under the facade of industrial action. But it has backfired on her and her party; the strike is a flop; it only exposes her as one whose efforts at tribalising this country have not worked, nor will they ever work.

What she needs to understand is that the Guyanese people are wiser now. We have come a long way out of that racist mould of race-baiting. As “One Guyana”, it means that we do not cater for viewing things from a racist standpoint. In the New Guyana, we view things in their rightful place, “One Guyana” means moving forward together as one people.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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Guyana suffers from flammable sources

Dear Editor, Again, another key Government building was lost due to fire. The Guyana Prison Service’s living quarters building was gutted by fire on the morning of 2nd February, 2024, leaving 30 Prison officers displaced.

How strange that this disaster struck one day after Fire officials had hosted a fire prevention talk at the building, which was equipped with fire extinguishers.

It is interesting to note that there were 192 fire calls in January 2024, up from 92 in January 2023. Fire calls (some fake) jumped from 1,000 in 2022 to 4,181 in 2023, a walloping 182.5% increase. The Guyana Fire Service responded to 807 grass fires in 2023; there were 952 fires in 2022, and this figure more than doubled to 2701 in 2023. This was announced by Home

Affairs Minister Robeson Benn at his year-end conference.

The derivation for many of these fires is deduced (disguised?) as electrical in origin. What’s perplexing is that fires on state facilities are of suspicious origin.

Fires that strike some businesses are also of suspicious origin. There are also official pronouncements that some fires on important businesses are the work of arsonists.

Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, suspected foul play in the January 2022 fire at the Guyana National Industrial Company Inc. (GNIC) wharf, as one of the storage bonds which held the three $72.2 million motion scales.

In 2020, millions of dollars’ worth of vehicles and other imported items were destroyed at the Laparkan

and Tropical Shipping bonds. The then Fire Chief, Gregory Wickham, had revealed that the fire was “maliciously set.”

In May 2017, fire fighters were unable to save the Albion Senior Staff Club and Guest House, located in the Albion Estate Compound. An estimate of the loss could not be provided, as all the bar records were destroyed in the fire!

A scotch-free escape route for debtors and creditors?

Albion Estate was again the victim of a fire on Saturday morning, 3rd February 2024, when the control room suffered major damage to the tune of some $50 million. A deliberate spoke in the wheel of GuySuCo and the Government?

Since the PPP/C returned to office in 2020, the state has suffered tremendous losses due to fires at buildings, including schools,

Police stations and markets, among other places. In 2022, an alarming number of 35 Government properties were destroyed by fire, while in 2023, the same fate was suffered by 21.

The frequency of these incidents generates great suspicion, and some are the work of arsonists. Four people were charged for the July 14th, 2020 deliberate and malicious GECOM office fire in Linden. It is believed that some of these fires on state facilities are attempts to destabilise the Government, forge a bad reputation, and hinder progress.

Fires at school “has to tell us something,” Minister Benn had commented. In 2021, Mabaruma Secondary and North Ruimveldt Secondary were destroyed.

In 2022, it was St. George’s High School; and twice in January 2023, there was a fire at Christ Church

I blame the GTU for pursuing self-interest, partisan politics Dear Editor, I am angry at the Executives of the Guyana Teachers Union across the country for allowing themselves to be manipulated, pressured, and coerced into striking against the Ministry of Education and the Government of the day.

I am kerfuffled as to how the union representatives are allowing a failed trade unionist and lazy worker representative like Coretta McDonald to convince them that they can somehow get the best results out of striking in that manner, crippling the education system and starving the nation’s innocent children out of learning.

At least that is what they think they are doing.

What did the innocent children ever do to the teachers’ union or the teachers? What have the children done to GTU to be used as collateral damage in this manner? What will happen to children’s education, and those who have to prepare for CSEC and NGSA exams or tests?

What will teachers do if these little boys and girls display the same types of attitudes in later stages of life because they are seeing for themselves how they are made to suffer due to the striking?

Do teachers believe that their interests are not being heard? Do they believe that President Mohamed Irfaan Ali does not want to pay them what is fair and reasonable? Really?!

The fact is that the Ministry of Education has already implemented at least 25 of the 41 GTU demands to improve the working conditions of teachers. I am aware that the Government and the President are working aggressively to meet other

reasonable demands. I also am aware that teachers benefitted along with Public Servants from increases every single year from this Government, and additionally benefitted from salary scale reviews just last year, testimony to the administration's commitment to the teachers' payment and salaries issues.

I think President Ali recently announced another $11B to improve the salary scales of our teachers and to effect several non-salary interventions.

This is far more progress in three years than the coalition’s infamous track record on negotiations with our teachers.

It is an indisputable fact that the Junior Minister with responsibility for Labour, Keith Scott, had called striking teachers uncaring and selfish during the term of the coalition.

President Ali and the Minister of Education have consistently supported the teachers, and treated them with dignity and respect.

They have gone beyond the call of duty sometimes to make practical adjustments to the benefit of teachers, but the teachers’ union allowed their bosses and masters to bring politics and race into their relationship.

I would even be so bold as to opine that the GTU is not being taken seriously, because its current Executives, and General Secretary Coretta McDonald, are always playing racial and opportunistic politics. I strongly feel the union Executives want Government to support their greed and self-aggrandizement. They want this PPP Government, from what I understand, to support them in getting several perks and to support their intended wrongdoings.

They do not like it when an objective person is calling it for what it looks like.

They want to drive around in a Lexus SUV and have a Supermarket and auto dealership at Rose Hall.

They are not hurt by this strike in any way, but our children and teachers are hurt. They do not think or care for the teachers, but are busy spreading the opposition narratives daily and using up the teachers' union dues for their benefit.

After all, what has the teachers' union ever done for teachers in this country, except to make them protest around election time and collect dues?

I am very livid and conflicted when I examine the timing of the industrial action and the reason. The Ministry of Education never said it is not interested in meeting the union, but I think one would be hardpressed to think they would meet now under these circumstances. If they are interested in talking and negotiating with the Ministry and the Government, they would go back to GTU Headquarters and call the teachers strike off.

They would achieve two things by doing that: prove the strike is not political, and engage in the process.

Collective labour bargaining in this climate needs maturity, respect, reasonable thinking, and a will to sort out issues. It does not require politics to succeed.

The timing of the strike is suspicious, and very typical of GTU. Trust me, industrial action in this form would bring about the changes the teachers want to see instantly.

This looks like it is creating the platform for the APNU/AFC to electioneer to 2025. Mark my words: it is not the first time McDonald

has used GTU politically. Other unions that are anti-development and anti-PPP/C will follow suit. I believe that our hardworking and dedicated professional teachers should not be in the sun protesting, but should benefit from proper representation and advice at the level of GTU. Finally, I think this whole strike is unnecessary, and causes an interruption in the learning process and education of the nation’s children. This strike is illegal and debilitating, and the Ministry of Education must stand strong against this action.

Teachers deserve more, but Government is doing all it can economically and financially to make them more comfortable. Striking is not the answer. Rome was not built in a day, and financial sustainability has to be considered before another round of increases is granted.

I propose that the union call off the strike and recommence discussions on reaching a ‘fair’ deal for teachers by this year's end. While the discussions would include the GTU Executives, they must not include Coretta McDonald or Mark Lyte. Other known politicians must stay away from this process.

The teachers would have regular updates which would be done in a joint statement or press conference to make sure that no misinformation or different stories are being told to our nation.

I still blame the GTU for pursuing self-interest and partisan politics, and for unnecessarily interrupting learning.

Yours truly, Michael Younge

Secondary School. According to Education Minister Priya Manikchand, “When schools burn, children of all colours, of all religions, whose parents vote all over for everybody; male, female, everybody suffers, and so we have to collectively take a stand in this country that we will not let careless speech, we will not let careless persons, interfere with our children’s future.”

Even the security divisions and justice system had fallen prey to this flammable event. The CID Headquarters at Eve Leary in May 2022, Brickdam Police Station in October 2021, and the building housing the Eve Leary Office of Professional Responsibility and Director of Public Prosecutions Chambers was victim of a towering inferno in November 2021, merely weeks apart from each scene.

“There have been several malicious settings of fires…” Minister Benn had surmised to the press at his conference. There was an attempt to burn the AG’s private law office complex in March 2023. Arson was suspected because kerosene was used on the side of the building.

Former senior lecturer at UG, Dr. Tara Singh, commented in NY on the need for the development of a building code, but he also said, “We can have a modern building code, but if some people are bent on creating mayhem, that would

not stop them; though it might make it more difficult to perpetrate acts of arson.”

He suggested the following measures for consideration: 1: There is a need for a good building code. 2: There is a need to bring in experts to investigate some of these fires. 3: There is a need to set up a joint private security force to provide security for Government facilities. 4: There is a need to set up a task force to oversee the security of Government facilities.

In the quest for clarity and conclusive confirmation, the exigency not to overlook any hidden agenda and the need to satiate forensic analysis, investigators must also look for inside saboteurs. Regarding the Guyana Prison Service residence fire, it was said, “Opposition elements claim that the agents of PPP/C set the structure on fire so that they (PPP/C) can give the contract to one of their friends to build a new facility. This is reversed psychology at its finest!”

Public safety and the need to smother the arson rampage must be elevated as a top priority. Guyana cannot afford another burning flame. The State is already suffering from other flammable sources, including racial innuendos, violent threats, political propaganda, and social manipulations.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time 06:30 Cartoons 07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 Stop Suffering 09:00 Guy's Grocery Games 10:00 Grand Designs 11:00 Paternity Court 11:30 Divorce Court 12:00 News Break 12:05 Movie - Food for the Heart (2023) 13:35 Wheel of Fortune 14:00 The Loud House S1 E15 14:30 Spongebob Squarepants 15:00 Indian Soaps 16:00 Drake & Josh S2 E6 16:30 Victorious S1 E17 17:00 The Young & The Restless 18:00 CNN 19:00 The Evening News 20:00 Stop Suffering 20:30 Stand-up Comedy 21:00 Friday Night Smackdown 23:00 Ballers S4 E8 23:30 Dear White People S1 E6 00:00 Sign off

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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Stepline 2: line Place a++decimal point in the answer line under the other decimal points: Step 2: Place a 82.72 decimal point in the answer under the other points: he decimal points line up in a single column.

9.34 9.34 decimal 82.72 82.72 82.72 Step 2: Place a decimal point in the answer line under the other decimal points: +in9.34 + 9.34 82.72 Step the Step 2: 2: Place Place aa decimal decimal point point in the answer answer line line under under the the other other decimal decimal points: points: 82.72 82.72 + 9.34 9.34 + 9.34 +82.72 Step 2: Place a decimal point +in9.34 the answer line under the other decimal 82.72 82.72 points: 9.34 9.34 Step 2: Place a decimal+point in the answer line under the other decimal points: 9.34 ++ 9.34 9.34 9.34 82.72 9.34 e under the other decimal points: ++ 9.34 9.34 82.72 Step3: 3: Add: Add: 9.34 Step 2: Place a decimal point inStep the answer line underStep theStep other decimal9.34 points:9.34 + 9.34 3: Add: 3: Add: 9.34 + 9.34 Step 3: Add: 82.72 Step 3: Add: 9.34 82.72 82.72 Step 3: Step 3: Add: Add: 82.72 82.72 9.34 + 9.34 82.72 Step 3: Add: + 9.34 82.72 82.72 82.72 + 9.34 Step 3: Add: 92.06 ++ 9.34 9.34 + 9.34 82.72 92.06 ++ 9.34 9.34 82.72 What if a number has no decimal point? +92.06 9.34

by E McG Keane 92.06 92.06 + 9.34 What if a number has no decimal point?

92.06 92.06 9.34 + 9.34 For example: 6 + 23.56has no decimal point?

CONTINUED FROM THURSDAY WhatAdd if a number 92.06 92.06 For example: Add 6 + 23.56 What if a number has no decimal point?

What if a number has no decimal point?

What if a number has no decimal point?

What a number has no point?

92.06 Just put For aifdecimal point at enddecimal of the whole number and add placeholder zeros after: Step 3: Add: example: Add 6the + 23.56 What ifJust a number has no decimal put a decimal point atpoint? the end of the whole and has add placeholder zeros after: if anumber number no decimal point?

For example: Add 66 ++ 23.56 ForWhat example: Add 23.56 What if a number has no decimal point?

For For example: 6 +66.00 23.56 example: Add + 23.56 Just putAdd a decimal point at the end of the whole number and add placeholder zeros after: 82.72 For example: Add 6 + 23.56 6.00 Just put a decimal point at the end Just put a decimal point at the end of of the the whole whole number number and and add add placeholder placeholder zeros zeros after: after: For example: Add 6 + 23.56 For example: Add 6 + 23.56 + 23.56 6.00 Just put aand decimal point theafter: endofofthe thewhole whole number number and afte put a decimal point atat the end and add addplaceholder placeholderzeros zeros af Just put a decimal point at the+end of theJust whole number add placeholder zeros 23.56 6.00 6.00 Just put a decimal point+at9.34 the end of the whole number and add placeholder Justzeros put after: a decimal29.56 point at the end of the whole number and add placeholder zeros after: + 23.56 6.00 29.56 e number and add placeholder zeros after: ++ 23.56 23.56 6.00 6.00 6.00 29.56 92.06 6.00 + 23.56 29.56 29.56 + 23.56 Exercises: Add + 23.56 + 23.56 Exercises: Add 29.56 + 23.56 What if a number has no decimal point?

29.56 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) 10 + 33.60 3) 894.08 + 2.36 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88 Exercises: Add 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) 10 + 33.60 3) 894.08 + 2.36Add 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.3129.56 +29.56 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88 Exercises: Exercises: Add 29.56 For example: Add 6 + 23.56 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) 10 + 33.60 3) 894.08 + 2.36 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88 Exercises: Add 1) 1) 12.20+ 12.20+ 7.58 7.58 2) 2) 10 10 ++ 33.60 33.60 3) 3) 894.08 894.08 ++ 2.36 2.36 4) 4) 11 ++ 31.05 31.05 5) 5) 54.31 54.31 ++ 23.48 23.48 6) 6) 7.12 7.12 ++ 92.88 92.88 Exercises: Add Exercises: Add Just put a decimal point at 1)the end7.58 of2)the number placeholder zeros 12.20+ 10 +whole 33.60 3) 894.08 + 2.36and 4) 1 +add 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 +after: 92.88 Exercises: Add 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) 10 + 33.60 3) 894.08 + 2.36 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88 1) Exercises: 12.20+Add 7.58 Add 2) 10 + 33.60 3) Exercises: 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88 Example: Add 82.72 + 9.34

Example:

6.00

+ 23.56

894.08 + 2.36 1 ++ 33.60 31.053)5)894.08 + 2.36 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.

1) 12.20+ 7.584) 2) 10 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) 10 + 33.60 894.08 ++ 2.36 2.36 4) + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) + 33.60 3)3)894.08 4)11++31.05 31.055)5)54.31 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 +9 54.31 + 23.48 6) 10 7.12 + 92.88

29.56

Exercises: Add 1) 12.20+ 7.58 2) 10 + 33.60 3) 894.08 + 2.36 4) 1 + 31.05 5) 54.31 + 23.48 6) 7.12 + 92.88

TO BE CONTINUED

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt, Opposition submit nominees for Constitutional Reform Commission

E

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

fforts are moving along to have the much-anticipated Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) established, with the main political parties naming their nominees to sit on the highly-anticipated Commission.

Last month, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, told <<<Guyana Times>>> that letters were dispatched to the various stakeholder bodies to submit their nominees to be appointed to the Commission.

They were given one month from January 10, 2024, to provide their names.

As that one-month deadline nears, the various political parties have submitted their nominees.

Ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed

during a press conference on Thursday that they have nominated AG Nandlall; Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira; Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony; Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai; and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, to be Government’s representatives on the Commission.

Similarly, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton at his weekly press conference on Thursday also revealed the nominees named by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition to sit on the Commission. They are the Opposition Commissioner at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Vincent Alexander; Economist Sherwood Lowe; Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Ganesh Mahipaul and Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes.

In addition, the Joinder Parties – comprising A New and United Guyana (ANUG); the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), and The New Movement (TNM) – which hold one seat in Parliament have also submitted their nominee to the Government in the person of ANUG’s General Secretary, Timothy Jonas, SC.

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

Constitutional reform was promised in the PPP/C Manifesto in 2020, where it was further outlined that consultation with the populace and important stakeholders and a broad-based Constitutional Reform Commission would drive the process.

The way was paved for the establishment of the CRC and the commencement of the reform process following the passage of the Constitutional Reform Commission Bill in the National Assembly in November 2022. Back in August of 2022, the Government presented the Constitutional Reform Commission Bill 2022 in the National Assembly.

That Bill sought the establishment of a 20-member CRC to review the country’s supreme laws.

The 20-member

Commission will be drawn from political parties (five from the ruling party, four from the main Opposition and one from the Joinder Parties), with 10 persons drawn from religious groupings, the Private Sector, the Guyana Bar Association, the National Toshaos Council, the labour movement, women’s organisations as well as nominees representing farmers and youths.

AG Nandlall had pointed out that, “It’s not going to be a politically-dominated Commission. It’s going to be half politicians and half civil society. The work of the Commission will be driven by public consultation.”

The Legal Affairs Minister had stated that once the Commission was in place, a comprehensive consultation process would begin with citizens on critical laws that needed to be reformed.

There had been concerns over the delay in setting up the Commission, which the Government had committed to have in place before the end of 2023.

However, Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Teixeira told reporters at a press conference in January that the delays in setting up the Commission had to do with the Government’s at-

tention being focused on Venezuela’s aggression towards Guyana.

“It was just overtaken by time… The Venezuelan border issue really consumed an enormous amount of time for the Government, for the Attorney General, for the lawyers and also caused a lot of angst by the community… These are not easy things to justify in terms of how Governments work, but, in fact, this is what does happen,” the Governance Minister noted.

Nevertheless, Teixeira reassured that “I know both the Attorney General and the President are committed to setting it up as soon as possible, and I will work with both of them in whatever way possible to bring it about”.

According to the provisions of the CRC Bill, the Commission will review the Constitution to provide for the current and future rights, duties, liabilities and obligations of the Guyanese people. It is mandated for that purpose to receive, consider, and evaluate submissions for the alteration of the Constitution, and report its recommendations to the standing committee for transmission to the National Assembly.

The Commission is

tasked with consultations for the reform process to continue, whereby a report will be prepared and sent to the standing committee. The committee will then refine the submissions into amendments for the National Assembly.

Last year, the Government had earmarked the sum of $150 million in the 2023 National Budget for constitutional reform activities.

This year, additional monies have been allocated towards the establishment of the CRC, including the rental of a building to house the Commission.

During the Consideration of the Budget 2024 Estimates last month, AG Nandlall disclosed that the Government had identified the building on Middle Street, Georgetown that was used for the conduct of several Commissions of Inquiry, as the office for the CRC. “I can safely say that just after these budget proceedings are concluded, His Excellency shall move to appoint the Constitutional Reform Commission, and this is the building in which that Commission will be housed. It is already furnished and ready for occupation by the secretariat and the Commission,” Nandlall had indicated last week. (G-8)

8

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

New… T

…Mad malevolence

his guy Mad Maduro just doesn’t know when to stop, does he?? Here it is that he was thrown a lifeline by the Yanks when they lifted their sanctions and allowed Chevron and some EU majors to start pumping and shipping oil again. But does Mad Maduro observe the prudent rule that when “you hand in tigah mout’, you muss pat ‘e head”?? Nah!! He’s more concerned with holding onto power by any means necessary – including provoking an American attack that he believes would have Venezuelans rallying behind him!! Never mind that even if there’s no intervention, the renewal of sanctions at the end of April will once again plunge his country further into oblivion!

As part of his “annexation” of Essequibo, he’d served notice to Exxon to halt its production at Lisa 1 and 2 because they were in waters off “his” Essequibo!! He’s also instructed the “governor” he’d appointed to rule Essequibo to start offering licences to other oil companies to start drilling in the area!! This is a Mad Maduro who saw with his own eyes his country’s production plummet from 3 million barrels per day to less than 700,000 in 2022 because the majors were pushed out!! His PDVSA just doesn’t have the capabilities or capital!! With Chevron and the EU companies back, that’s been upped to 795,000, and yet he just won’t stop pissing off the Americans!

This Wednesday, his Minister of Defence, Vladimir Padrino, reacted to Exxon’s announcement that, later this year, they’ll start drilling some new wells off the Essequibo waters – into which the Stabroek Block extends. The irony is that contrary to Mad Maduro’s claims, Liza 1 and 2 and are NOT in those waters!! Vladmir warned that if ExxonMobil goes ahead, Venezuela will take action.

“If ExxonMobil has a private security company represented by the Southern Command, and a unit of the Government of Guyana in the maritime space that by right belongs to Venezuela, they will receive a proportional forceful and legal response,” he said smarmily on X. Mad Maduro’s VP, Delcy Rodriguez – who’s determined to show her boss that she’s a good attack dog, had to chime in, of course. She had the chutzpah to scream that Exxon’s announcement was a breach of the Argyle Declaration!!

Imagine that!! Massing troops, tanks, warships and jet fighters off Essequibo wasn’t a breach…but planning to drill is!!

But the Yanks ain’t that stupid to actually invade Venezuela because of threats to Exxon and “get bad name” of the Ugly American throwing its weight around. Knowing that there are several ways to skin a cat, they’ll focus on Mad Maduro’s breach of the Barbados Agreement to facilitate free and fair elections.

They’ll invade to protect democracy for the Venezuelan people!! …armed capabilities Folks must’ve questioned the $42 billion allocation to our Disciplined forces - half of it to purchase new planes, drones, helicopters and a patrol boat. Pressie was asked if we’re in an “arms race” against Mad Maduro and Venezuela. Pressie, of course, immediately shot down that notion. After all, after Chavez broke relations with the US, he and Mad Maduro purchased more than US$30 BILLION worth of war materiel from Russia and China.

In manpower alone, Venezuela has 123,000 armed personnel – 63,000 in the Army, 25,550 in the Navy, and 11,550 in the Air Force, with an additional 23,000 in the National Guard. From the billions spent, they have top-ofthe-line tanks, amphibious craft from China, plus fighter jets and drones galore from Russia. Compare this to our 5000 or so armed men and women at best!!

But what Pressie is saying is that while Venezuela might have the numbers, we have the tactical freedom to defend our borders.

Including calling in good friends! …flights Happy days are here with the friendly skies just getting friendlier!! Sky-High Aviation Services will launch three weekly flights connecting the Dominican Republic with Guyana, beginning on February 18. But your Eyewitness suspects more Guyanese will be vacationing in DR than vice versa!!

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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9

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Graduate teachers set to receive 50% salary hike within PPP’s 1st term – VP Jagdeo …says no financial audits for GTU since 1989 raises eyebrows

V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo has announced that at the end of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s first term in office, graduate teachers would have benefited from salary increases amounting to nearly 50 per cent.

These statistics were divulged on Thursday in light of recent strike action, which the Government has labelled political and illegal, led by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) for a pay hike.

At his weekly press conference, the Vice President outlined that within the past four years, graduate teachers in the education sector have benefited from a 33-35 per cent increase in wages.

“Teachers have gotten from the 2015 level, more than a 50 per cent increase, but under this Government alone, graduate teachers have gotten about 35 per cent increase since we got into office…Conceivably, it would be close to 50 per cent in the five years,” the VP noted.

According to him, the objective is to ensure that more teachers enter the skilled category by making such

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

investments. This will ultimately increase the quality of education and learning for children.

“We want them to be trained, and we are providing the opportunity for them to be trained to grow higher. So massive allocation of resources in the budget to the sector, improvement of working conditions, improvement of salaries, providing more opportunities for training. This has been a clear-cut plan for the education sector…We want them to not stay there,” he stated.

More than 3000 teach-

ers have graduated since 2020 while 4000 have either completed or are undergoing Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programmes. The Government is aiming to have 100 per cent trained teachers in the system by next year.

Currently, a trained graduate teacher earns 237,736 – a difference of 61,741 from 2019.

Jagdeo also drew attention to the fact that $135 billion has been allocated to the education sector this year to better working conditions for teachers. This is significantly more than the $52.7 billion allocated by the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition in its last budget before demitting office.

A comparison shows that this works out to be $694,000 per child for the 180,000 students in the sector, as opposed to $310,000 per year for 170,000 students in 2019.

With more teachers added to the sector and teachers in training receiving a full salary of about $104,000, the teacher-per-child ratio is currently 12.69 – better than those of 156 countries

globally.

“That shows a commitment to hiring people in the sector…We have now smaller classrooms. Many teachers might still be teaching big classes. But why is that happening? I think it’s time now to examine why some of these things are happening,” said the VP.

Accountability

Meanwhile, the transparency and accountability of the GTU came under scrutiny, as it was discovered that their last audited statement was done in 1989, and financial statements to the Registrar were last submitted in 2004.

“Anywhere in the world, they would have been struck off and the membership would have been in uproar, but a cabal runs this union…

Where are your accounts for 30 years? Why have they not been audited? How much money did you collect? The billions that you collected, where did it go? Why are you violating your own constitution that you have to do this?” the VP highlighted.

Last week, Jagdeo had contended that the countrywide strike action called by the GTU was part of the

GTU General Secretary Coretta McDonald

Opposition’s tactic to mislead teachers for its own political agenda.

At the helm of the Union’s leadership is its General Secretary, Coretta McDonald – who is also an Opposition Member of Parliament (MP). Calling it a political strike, Jagdeo had urged teachers not to fall prey to such traps.

The GTU had initially shared that the protest would last for two weeks, culminating on February 16.

The Education Ministry issued a statement this week, stating that many

teachers nationwide have refused to participate in the industrial action to ensure students are prepared for the upcoming National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams.

Previously, the GTU had proposed 41 areas identified for better working conditions for teachers. Over the past three years, the Education Ministry has fulfilled 25 of those requests.

The areas in which the Ministry and the Union have not reached an agreement include salary increases for some scales (the Ministry has gone above GTU’s request for some scales); allowances; rehired teachers paid at the scale that they retired at; housing fund (which the Union has repeatedly failed to give a way forward for although the fund has a few hundred million dollars put there by the Government) and salary scales for different Heads of Department (HODS) and Sixth Form Deputy Heads; payment for the marking of School-Based Assessments (SBAs), and house lots for teachers in each new housing scheme. (G-12)

10 NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Several homeless after fire devastates 4 houses in Ruimveldt squatting area

Another house that was destroyed by the fire

A

devastating fire which is believed to have been deliberately set has destroyed four houses in the squatting area referred to as Container City, located behind the John Fernandes Container Terminal at Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

First spotted in one of the houses at about 11:00h on Thursday, this fire engulfed three other houses within a matter of minutes, and left at least 10 persons seeking alternative living arrangements in its wake.

Guyana Times arrived on scene to find a chaotic environment, with persons frantically trying to salvage household items such as beds, sofas and a few electrical appliances. Conversely, some completely distraught persons stood helplessly watching their homes being reduced to rubble.

One such person was Jane Boston, a senior member of the City Constabulary, who was inconsolable as she asked the Lord to take the wheel. In tears, she related

Aftermath of the fire

A firefighter at the scene

that she was at work when she received the news of the fire, and she immediately rushed home.

“All I see is the whole house on fire…I couldn’t do anything… all meh documents! Everything burn up! Lord, tell me how me go start over…,” she lamented.

She said she has lost everything in the fire.

She declared that she had made several complaints about the man suspected to have started the fire, and that on several

previous occasions persons have had cause to put out fires started by this man, who is presumably of unsound mind.

This man has subsequently been arrested.

Tiffany Morgan, another victim of this fire, recalled being at work when she received a telephone call about the fire. She said she rushed home only to find the house she had occupied with her husband and children completely destroyed. She, too, had been unable to save anything.

A 34-year-old man whose house has also been reduced to ashes related that he was at work nearby when he received the news about the fire and rushed home. He

said that upon seeing the destruction, he broke down in tears. He said he had only recently rebuilt his home, after it had been damaged by fire.

“This is the second time you boy facing this, meh brother! Only the other day I start rebuilding this house, and now again like I got to start again,” he lamented.

Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald related at the scene that, while he was in his vehicle, he heard the report of a fire and immediately diverted to the scene.

He said he was the first respondent, followed by a tender and crew.

“Initially, we received a report about one fire, but

when I reached the scene, it was something different…

The first appliance arrived about three minutes after my arrival, and immediately that crew went into operation to stop the spread of fire; but at that time it had already compromised the other buildings,” he detailed.

Fire tenders from Central and Eccles Fire Stations later arrived on scene and the fire was contained, but by then it had left millions in losses and families displaced. An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause and origin of the fire.

In the meantime, the suspected arsonist remains in custody.

NEWS

11

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

World Sustainable Development Summit

PM advocates for decisive global leadership in sustainable development – reiterates Guyana’s commitment to transitioning towards clean energy

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips and India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar after engaging in discussions to strengthen partnerships in the areas of economy, energy, security and development cooperation

P

rime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips stressed the need for leadership at all levels, during his keynote address at the threeday Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) 2024 World Sustainable Development

Summit (WSDS), which concluded on Thursday in New Delhi, India.

The Prime Minister said that leadership was needed at the global, national, and sub-national levels to be able to take “timely and decisive steps toward meeting

Prime Minister Phillips met India’s President, Droupadi Murmu at her official residence, Rashtrapati Bhavan, in Delhi on Wednesday

Sustainable Development Goals”.

He also challenged the leaders present to deliberate upon and forge partnerships that are critical to achieving the Paris Agreement goals and, more importantly, that are needed to keep the planet and its people healthy.

In addressing the theme of this year’s summit, “Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice”, Prime Minister Phillips noted that “despite the many challenges experienced globally, including lack of sustainable financing, supply chain challenges, ?scal deficits, high debt levels, in?ationary pressures and higher energy and material prices, national commitments must not waver”.

Accordingly, he emphasised that “as the year 2030 approaches, there is a need for international cooperation and collaboration from the public and private sectors to address the complexities and uncertainties in climate financing, technical capacities, policies, and regulatory frameworks to drive the energy transition”.

He also highlighted the paradox that developing countries contribute the least towards global emissions but are the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change,

which is further compounded by the challenges of securing climate finance for adaptation and access to technology transfer for decarbonisation.

Phillips further underscored that Guyana remained “mindful of its international commitments as recognised in the Paris Agreement and is committed to maintaining its net carbon sink status”. Moreover, this is being achieved by “introducing policies such as REDD+ under our Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS)”.

The Guyanese Prime Minister affirmed Guyana’s commitment “to building its infrastructural capacity and transitioning towards clean energy”. He highlighted

some of the initiatives that the Government of Guyana has undertaken in this regard, including the launch of the country’s updated LCDS 2030, which also focuses on aligning policies with global climate and biodiversity goals. Among the initiatives listed were the installation of a 300 megawatt natural gas-to-energy power plant; the distribution of 30,000 solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to off-grid hinterland and riverine households to benefit close to 140,000 persons in more than 240 communities; two utility-scale solar PV farms; 31 solar mini-grids; and rooftop solar PV systems at over 350 public buildings.

He also congratulated the organisation on its achieve-

ments while acknowledging the longstanding partnership that Guyana has shared with TERI over the years and the support the country has received from the organisation in advancing sustainable development and delivering lasting solutions to climate change.

Prime Minister Phillips, who is on an official visit to India, joined Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar and Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India, Shri Bhupender Yadav to inaugurate the 23rd edition of the WSDS. This year, the inaugural session of the Summit served to commemorate the 50th anniversary of TERI.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Sky High Aviation enters Guyanese market with weekly flights to DR S

The Sky High Aviation Services aircraft

ky High Aviation Services will, from February 18, 2024, be offering three weekly flights that connect Guyana with the Dominican Republic.

The carrier announced this exciting news on Thursday, sharing that it would provide convenient and affordable travel options for business and leisure passengers.

The new routes, operated by a comfortable Embraer 190 with 97 seats, would offer seamless connections between Santo Domingo’s Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) and Georgetown’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

This enhanced connectivity is expected to boost tourism, trade, and investment between the two nations, offering exciting opportunities for cultural exchange and

ating a robust air transportation network. We are confident it will significantly contribute to increased tourism, trade, and investment, further propelling Guyana’s development.”

Sky High Aviation Services is a Dominican Republic-based airline that offers scheduled passenger and cargo services across the

French Guiana, Santiago and Havana Cuba, among other destinations.

Chairman of the CJIA Board of Directors, Sanjeev Datadin, has added that the addition of Sky High Aviation Services to CJIA’s portfolio of airlines demonstrates the growing confidence in Guyana’s aviation industry.

“This new route will provide passengers with more travel options, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activity within the region,” he said.

Sky High has said that, with a focus on safety, reliability and exceptional customer service, it is commit-

ted to connecting people and cultures while contributing to the economic development of the regions it serves.

Passenger movement at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport continues to increase, with the airport processing 729,680 passengers for last year. This figure represents an increase of 11 per cent compared to the 657,249 passengers processed in 2022. Additionally, over 11 million tonnes of cargo were processed at the airport, representing a 25 per cent increase from the previous year’s figure.

Influx of the international arrival rate seen in recent

time is due to Guyana becoming one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with many booming sectors and the vast development of its tourism industry. The country has been investing in numerous tourism products and experiences, such as its eco-lodges, tours, and cultural extravaganza, among other tour initiatives.

It is also a result of the Government’s heavy investments in developing the country’s infrastructure and services, coupled with the continued growth of the oil and gas sector. Government is aiming for 1 million passenger arrivals by 2025.

Digicel to expand fibre-optic network across Guyana – CEO A view of the interior of the aircraft

economic growth.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill has shared, “We are thrilled to welcome Sky High Aviation Services to Guyana’s aviation landscape…This new route aligns with our vision of fostering regional integration and cre-

Caribbean, Venezuela, and the United States. The current route network includes flights to Miami, Caracas, Maracaibo, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Antigua, St Maarten, St Kitts, Anguilla, St Thomas, St Croix, Guadeloupe, Martinique,

... to pump $17M into humanitarian effort as company celebrates 17 years in Guyana

Digicel CEO Deonarine Gopaul

Communications Manager Gabriella Ambassador Curtis Armstrong

s Digicel celebrates 17 years of operating in the Guyanese market, its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Deonarine Gopaul, has announced that the company is planning to expand its fibre network across Guyana.

He has explained that new jobs would be created, and that he foresees the telecommunications giant doubling its workforce in the coming years.

“With aims of enlarging our fibre network footprint, we plan on expanding the Georgetown fiber network further across Guyana. So, in terms of job creation, we have new jobs and additional staff on board. We have grown above 30 per cent in the area of employment, and we plan to double our staff in the coming years because of the expansion,” Gopaul has detailed.

Further, he noted that plans are already in train to expand the company’s LongTerm Evolution (LTE) coverage. “The blue subsea cable has landed in Guyana.

This will kick off at the end of April, and it will provide us total capacity in Guyana for at least 25-30 years; so that the future of Guyana is secure,” he disclosed.

In his budget presentation, Prime Minister Mark Phillips had said that the latest submarine fibre optic cable undertaken by Digicel Guyana would add a hefty 13 terabytes to Guyana’s international internet capacity – an amount that is far greater than the consumption expected for years to come. Phillips had also outlined advancements that Guyanese consumers can expect in the telecommunications sector for 2024.

This latest landing brings the number of submarine fibre cables to three, and this cable is expected to become operational this year.

“The benefits expected include reduction in data prices as operators further compete with each other…The newest offering will add a minimum of 13 terabytes of capacity to our international internet capacity, something that we will not be able to utilise fully, based on current growth over the next 25 years.”

Upon assuming office, Government liberalised the telecommunications sector; and, thereafter, Private Sector investment increased by 40 per cent: from $10.5 billion in 2020 to $14.6 billion in 2023. From 2020 to 2022, mo-

A

Chapman

and

Brand

bile subscriptions also grew by 11 percent: from 665,000 to 746,000; and broadband subscriptions grew by 15 per cent, while fixed broadband subscriptions grew by 36 per cent.

During its anniversary celebration, Digicel has unveiled several plans for the Guyanese populace.

Apart from its promotions, Communications Manager Gabriella Chapman has said, the company would invest heavily in community projects.

“We at Digicel are big on giving back to the community. Not just through our promotions, but also now; as, in this 17th year, we plan to commence immediate rehabilitation work at the Mahaica Girls Home. As you know, Digicel would have gifted the Ministry with that home, so we went and did a site visit and saw that some work needed to be done,” she disclosed.

“We also plan on giving back to 17 needy families, and we will be giving back to 17 schools across Guyana,” she further disclosed.

She also thanked the Guyanese populace for the support the company has received over the past 17 years.

15

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

16 NEWS Over 45 Indian companies operating in Guyana – GO-Invest CEO FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GO-Invest Chief Executive Officer, Dr Peter Ramsaroop at the event

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ore than 45 Indian businesses are operating within Guyana’s Private Sector, and more are set to come on stream shortly, according to Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer and Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Peter Ramsaroop.

Popular among those

Indian companies in Guyana are the Texila American University, Vivaanta Ayurvedic Spa & Hair Salon, New India Assurance, and Bank of Baroda.

Dr Ramsaroop made this announcement on Wednesday, during the India-Guyana Chamber of Commerce’s Cocktail

Event at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown, which was held in the observance of its first anniversary.

According to Dr Ramsaroop, several companies from the South Asian country are eyeing direct participation in the oil and gas sector here.

This, he noted, is testament to the growing business relations between Guyana and India.

“We have over 45, I think, Indian companies in Guyana…we have one of the largest mining companies doing the crush stones in Guyana from India. It’s great to see the joint venture in the atmosphere among our companies.

Our President speaks a lot about joint ventures...And I believe that this is a statement to see folks coming together to bring our two nations together. There’s a lot

A representative of one of the companies receiving its membership certificate from Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond

of good things coming in the future,” the GO-Invest CEO said.

His comments were backed by the First Secretary at the Indian High Commission, Manoj Kumar, who pointed out that Indian companies were helping Guyana with its infrastructural transformation.

These include Kalpataru Projects International Limited, Engineers India Limited Gem Granites, Rail India Technical and Economic Service Limited (RITES) Ltd, Ashoka

Construction Company, and Shapoorji Paloonji and Company Limited.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd underscored that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) would continue to ensure that its policy and legislative frameworks align with the modern business system.

Against this backdrop, he signalled the Government's commitment to putting all systems and structures in place to sup-

port business development between Guyana and India.

“We know that we have companies and firms out there who are working just as hard as us. The thing is we have to work together, there must be synergies between the Government and the Private Sector…we will always be there to ensure that the policy framework is conducive, suitable, and predictable, because – we, as government led by His Excellency President Ali, we have invested interest in Private Sector development,” Minister Todd said.

Meanwhile, during the cocktail reception, members of the Chamber were presented with their certificates and badges of membership by Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond.

Among the beneficiaries are businessmen Steven Jacobs and Kalamazad Ibrahim and Banker Shaleeza Shaw, who also holds the position of Treasurer at the Chamber.

The Chamber that was established in August 2023, to promote trade, investment and cultural ties between India and Guyana continues to play a strategic role in the development of Guyana’s economy.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

18 NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 59,000 new businesses registered from 2020 to date – AG Nandlall …says growth in commercial sector warrants overhaul of Companies Act W

ith Guyana’s burgeoning economy, commercial activities have been expanding in the country with more than 59,000 new businesses registered since 2020, thus resulting in the need for the outdated Companies Act to be overhauled to reflect the new realities.

This was shared by Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, during his weekly programme – Issues in the News. He noted that there has been unprecedented growth in businesses in Guyana over the past four years.

“From 2020 to now, we have had 59,014 new businesses registered at the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority… For companies, we’ve had 4856 new companies incorporated from 2020 to now at the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority,” the AG disclosed.

According to Nandlall, this rapid rate of businesses being established and companies being in-

corporated in Guyana calls for an overhaul of the country’s commercial laws and regulations.

Guyana’s Companies Act was passed in 1991. The Legal Affairs Minister noted the state of Guyana’s economy and its commercial sector at that time was radically different from its current state, that is, one of the fastest growing economies in the world with vibrant commercial activities.

“Definitely, we have to get new laws and new regulatory framework.

Of course, the activities themselves in the commercial sector have significantly changed; they have expanded, and there are new activities that were never here before.

We have a new oil and gas sector – a multibillion-dollar oil and gas sector that was not here in 1991, certainly. Our Companies Act must take into account these new realities,” Nandlall stated.

Other areas that the local law is silent on and would have to be updat-

Attorney General & Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC

ed to incorporate include Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations as well as laws governing the Guyana stock market.

According to the Legal Affairs Minister, the Government is using a model created by the Caribbean Community (Caricom) in revamping the local Companies Act. “Caricom has done a model for Caribbean jurisdictions. And once there is Caricom model, we would try to use it as far as possible,” the Attorney General

posited.

Based on figures from the AG Chambers, some 6633 businesses were established and 791 companies were incorporated in 2020. In the following year, another 9720 businesses were established and 1199 companies incorporated; while in 2022, a whopping 20,055 businesses were established and 1418 companies incorporated.

Then in 2023, some 22,606 new businesses were established and 1448 companies were incorporated.

During this period, the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority (DCRA) earned a total of $1.060 million in 2020; $1.551 million in 2021; $1.778 million in 2022;

and $2.512 million in 2023.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Government is concluding arrangements for the construction of a new building in Georgetown next year to house the DCRA. Additionally, approximately $800 million has been budgeted this year for a DCRA Esplanade in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). A plot of land has already been acquired from the Government for this building.

Only last month during his presentation of the 2024 National Budget, Senior Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh revealed plans to update the country’s Companies Act as part of the Government’s legislative agenda for this

year.

He pointed out that this process to review the Companies Act has already started.

The updated legislation, he explained, will follow the Caricom model very closely to produce a more modern legal framework to govern the corporate sector.

Moreover, Dr Singh revealed the drafting of a new Bill to address the outdated Evidence Act, which will take into consideration technological advancements.

Additionally, he said this year will see the debating of the Arbitration Bill, which will facilitate arbitration experts from outside of Guyana conducting arbitration in Guyana. (G-8)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

19

News

Motorcyclist drops 15kg ganja Essequibo youth gets 9 months for malicious damage to property while escaping from cops

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yldon Holder, a 24-year-old labourer of Lot 149 Hoppie Street in Dartmouth Village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), was on Wednesday sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment after being convicted of committing malicious damage to the property of 27-year-old Miggel Nedd of Richmond Housing Scheme

The motorcycle the suspect was riding when he spotted the Police

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olice are on the hunt for a man who, upon seeing them, dropped parcels of cannabis along the Ituni Trail in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and escaped into nearby bushes, leaving his XR motorcycle behind.

The ditched parcels were later determined to contain over 15 kilograms of marijuana.

Based on reports received, Police ranks were

The ganja that was abandoned

performing traffic duties along the Ituni Trial on Monday when they observed heading in their direction a motorcyclist riding an XR motorcycle without a registration number. This man was at the time carrying a haversack and two other parcels – one at the front of the bike and the other at the back thereof.

Upon seeing the ranks, the suspect dropped the parcels, jumped off the motorcycle and made good his escape into the nearby bushes.

As such, the parcels and mo-

torcycle were taken to the Mackenzie Police Station; where upon further inspection, it was noted that the two parcels were wrapped with transparent plastic on the outside and black plastic on the inside. In addition, one of the parcels was in a brown rice bag. Each parcel contained a quantity of ganja, which when weighed amounted to 15.422kg (341b) The haversack contained several mechanical tools and wet clothing.

An investigation is underway.

Charged: Syldon Holder

on the Essequibo Coast.

Accused of committing this offence on November 25, 2023 on the Charity Public Road, Essequibo Coast, Holder, who is in prison, made a virtual appearance before Anna Regina Magistrate Esther Sam and was found guilty as charged.

He has therefore been sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment.

Labourer gets bail on robbery charge A

ccused of stealing a silver-and-gold band from Karen Torres of Charity Public Road on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), Alister Bess, a 47-year-old labourer of Charity Public Road, appeared before Anna Regina Magistrate Esther Sam on

Tuesday and pleaded not guilty to the charge, after the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied.

The magistrate has placed him on 60,000 bail and transferred the matter before the Charity Magistrate for calling on February 19, 2024.

Charged: Alister Bess

Essequibo hire car driver BOSAI workers stumble upon nabbed with cocaine, ganja human skeletal remains

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uman skeletal remains have been discovered in a drain at the tailings pond located at the northeastern end of the BOSAI Compound in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) on Thursday.

Police have said they were informed on Tuesday by a 52-year-old male employed with Bosai as a technical services and environmental coordinator that, while performing duties, he overheard workers talking among themselves that another colleague had stumbled upon a skeleton.

Upon hearing this, he said, he immediately launched an investigation; and on Thursday, contacted a co-worker, who confirmed seeing the skeletal remains and provided the location.

As such, he contacted the

Detectives collecting the remains

Police and informed them of the development.

The skeletal remains found at BOSAI

A team of detectives then travelled with the worker to the area where the skeleton was reported to be, and they found the remains in a drain without water.

Closer inspection of the skeleton revealed that several bones were missing from the lower limbs.

The skeletal remains were collected and taken to the Pensioners’ Funeral Home, where a post-mortem will be conducted. An investigation is underway to determine if anyone had been reported missing.

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taxi driver was arrested following the discovery of a quantity of cocaine and marijuana in his car on Tuesday along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Police stated that they were on mobile patrol when they observed a motor car heading in the opposite direction that suddenly made a U-turn and then continued its journey.

Thinking that something was amiss, the ranks intercepted the car and it was observed that the driver was the only occupant. He identified himself as Madho Persaud, 52, of Riverstown, Essequibo Coast.

A search was conducted on his person, but nothing

The ganja and cocaine that were found in the taxi

illegal was found. Another search was reportedly conducted inside the car during which two black plastic bags were found under the mat of the driver’s seat.

One of the bags contained a quantity of ganja while the other had cocaine. Persaud was told of the offence to which he replied, “ Officer, me pick up

de drugs from Adventure and me de carrying it to Walton Hall”.

As such, he was arrested and taken to the Anna Regina Police Station, where the cannabis and cocaine were weighed and amounted to 119 grams and 28.6 grams respectively.

Persaud remains in custody pending charges.

Essequibo man busted with cocaine gets 6 months

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uraj Raghnauth, who last Saturday was arrested with 0.6 grams of cocaine along the Charity Public Road on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), has been sentenced to six months’ imprisonment by Magistrate Esther Sam.

Sentenced: Suraj Raghnauth

The 31-year-old Raghnauth, who had been charged under Section 4 (1) a (i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, Chapter 10:10, on Wednesday pleaded guilty to the charge, and the magistrate imposed the jailtime on him.

20 NEWS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Opposition files suit to remove VP Jagdeo from Parliament ... “We will deal with that accordingly” – VP Jagdeo

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he A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition has filed legal proceedings to remove Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo from being a Member of Parliament in the National Assembly; and the VP has said he would respond to the move accordingly.

In a statement on Thursday, Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones and MP Tabitha SaraboHalley indicated they have filed an application in the High Court over what they say is the “prolonged absence” of VP Jagdeo from the National Assembly and from parliamentary sessions.

During his press conference on Thursday, when Jagdeo was asked about this matter, he said the matter of his removal from Parliament would have to be dealt with by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir.

Nevertheless, he indicated that he would be responding accordingly to the legal application filed by the Opposition.

“So, that’s a matter for the Speaker, and we’ll respond accordingly. So, we’ll deal with that accordingly,”

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Jagdeo has said.

Citing the Guyana Constitution and Parliamentary Standing Orders, the Opposition MPs have noted that good governance relies heavily on the active participation of all elected officials. They are claiming that VP Jagdeo has missed more than six consecutive sittings within the first parliamentary session, between 2020 and 2024.

Articles 54 and 156 1 (b) of the Constitution of Guyana and Standing Order 106 (2) of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly of Guyana provide that a seat of a Member of the National Assembly shall be vacated if that member is absent for more than

six (6) consecutive sittings of the National Assembly within the First Session (2020-2024) of the Twelfth Parliament of Guyana, and within a period of no longer than two calendar months.

The application filed by the Opposition MPs states that VP Jagdeo was absent for eleven consecutive sittings of the National Assembly: from December 11, 2023 to February 1, 2024. This is within the First Session (2020-2024) of the Twelfth Parliament of Guyana.

According to the Opposition MPs, Jagdeo’s absence has been recorded in the Minutes of Proceedings of the 69th to 79th sittings of the National Assembly, which they said is a “conclusive recording” of the House. They say in the legal document that the Vice President was absent from sittings held on: December 11 and 19, 2023, and on January 15, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30 and 31, 2024; as well as on February 1, 2024. Based on his absence during these 11 consecutive sittings, the Opposition MPs are claiming in the legal document, Jagdeo has not only ceased to be a member of the National Assembly, but, by virtue thereof, would

also cease to hold the posts of Vice President, Minister of Government, and a Member of Cabinet.

In addition to these senior Government posts, Jagdeo is the General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).

The application particularly urges the Court to consider the constitutional and legal implications of Bharrat Jagdeo’s absence from parliamentary sessions.

The legal challenge was filed by Attorney-atLaw Roysdale Forde, S.C., on behalf of Jones and Sarabo-Halley. It names the Attorney General, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Jagdeo as the first, second and third defendants respectively.

In the application, the Opposition MPs are asking the court to make several declarations, including that, as a result of being absent from the National Assembly for more than six consecutive sittings within the First Session (2020-2024) of the Twelfth Parliament of Guyana, and within a period of no longer than two calendar months, Jagdeo had vacated his seat in the National Assembly

Opposition MP Tabitha SaraboHalley

Opposition Jones

by virtue of the conjoint effect and operation of Articles 54 and 156 1 (b) of the Constitution of Guyana and Standing Order 106 (2) of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly of Guyana.

They also want a declaration that Jagdeo, by virtue of the conjoint effect and operation of Articles 54 and 156 1 (b) of the Constitution of Guyana and Standing Order 106 (2) of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly of Guyana, had vacated his seat in the National Assembly as a result of being absent from the National Assembly for more than six consecutive sittings

within the First Session (2020-2024) of the Twelfth Parliament of Guyana, and within a period of no longer than two calendar months; and that, by virtue of Article 183 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana, he has consequently ceased to be a member of the Cabinet of Guyana, and can no longer hold the offices of Vice President and Minister of the Government of Guyana.

According to the Opposition MPs, “The application seeks to uphold the Constitution of Guyana and to secure the integrity of the parliamentary system in our beloved country - Guyana.”

MP

Christopher

GDF Chief of Staff to be redesignated Chief of Defence – Pres Ali announces ... other structural changes on the horizon

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he position of Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), currently held by Brigadier Omar Khan, will be redesignated Chief of Defence, as announced by President Dr. Irfaan Ali during Thursday’s opening of the Annual Officers’ Conference (AOC).

The Commander in Chief announced on Thursday that this AOC would be the last occasion when the designation of Chief of Staff of the GDF will be used, because the position is being changed to Chief of Defence, in line with regional and international norms and practices.

“Let me congratulate the Chief of Staff and all the senior officers of the Guyana Defence Force for yet another Annual Officers’ Conference. This would be the last Officers’ Conference where the term Chief of Staff will be used. In keeping with the regional structure and international structure, we will move towards the designation as Chief of Defence, instead of Chief of Staff,” President Ali announced.

This comes even as President Ali indicated that the GDF would be undergoing massive restructuring over the next few weeks.

And further, he noted that while the Force has faced its challenges in the last three years, the work and unity the GDF has displayed shows that the security of the nation is in good hands.

The GDF 412 helicopter that was destroyed in the December 6, 2023 crash

President Dr Irfaan Ali (centre) is flanked by Chief of Staff Brigadier Omar Khan (left) and another senior officer. In the background are top-ranked GDF officers

“I want this conference to understand that as we move now to this agenda, described in a nutshell by the Chief of Staff that deals with the issue of National Defence Strategy, there will be, based on our assessment, some reorientation and reassessment of how we work and perform our tasks. And of course, we will have to re-engage at a different level,” the President declared.

“With the type of assets we’re investing in, there will be structural changes. To whom much is given, much is expected, so this conference must address the shift in our asset base - which would affect the shift in strategy, the shift in positioning; and then

rework structurally how we adapt to these shifts in ensuring that we remain efficient and reliable,” he declared.

The Guyana Defence Force has been given a disbursement of $42.2 billion for 2024, an increase of 85 per cent. For his part, Chief of Staff Brigadier Khan spoke in some detail of how this budgetary allocation would be used.

“On the infrastructure side, our Force continues to have community engagements through infrastructure development in villages; and also, at the national level, (we are) involved in the rehabilitation and extension of the Eteringbang and Kaieteur Falls air-

strips,” he explained.

“Our maritime infrastructure, we have commenced the expansion of the existing wharf and headquarters of the Coast Guard (in order) to facilitate and accommodate the increase of our maritime fleet. To note, we expect our metal shark, GDF Shahoud, in a few weeks.”

Further, he spoke of the GDF having acquired an aircraft hangar at the Eugene F. Correia Airport, which he noted would be renovated this year to house additional aircraft. Also slated for this year is the construction of a new GDF Headquarters building.

With intention to bolster the country’s defensive cap-

acity, Government has allocated $42.2 billion of the $1.146 trillion Budget 2024 towards building the technical capability and assets of the GDF. The sum will go towards procuring, among other things, four new helicopters that would not only be used by the GDF, but also the Guyana Police Force.

In December 2023, one of the GDF’s newest helicopters was damaged in a horrific crash that claimed the lives of five servicemen. The helicopter suffered significant damage, particularly in the fuselage, with only a few pieces remaining. Brigadier (ret’d) Gary Beaton; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, and Sergeant Jason Khan were part of a seven-member crew on board the army’s Bell 412 helicopter when it lost signal near Guyana’s western borders on December 6, 2023. The chopper was found the fol-

lowing day in the forest of Region Seven with only two survivors.

Last month, President Ali had said there were active plans to step up spending in the security sector, not only on hardware, but on human resources. This comes on the heels of last month’s heightened tension with neighbouring Venezuela, which is laying claim to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass in the Essequibo, and a portion of its EEZ where oil production activities are ongoing.

However, President Ali has made it clear that these efforts are merely aimed at bolstering the country’s defence capability, and not for any act of aggression.

President Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro, have agreed “not to threaten or use force against one another” during the historic face-to-face meeting in St Vincent and the Grenadines on December 14, 2023.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

21

“One Guyana” Basketball League…

Playoff and Conference Finals set for Saturday B

asketball action returns to the National G y m n a s i u m on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown on Saturday with play-offs of the “One Guyana” Basketball tournament continuing.

In the double-header, the first jump ball is set for 19:00hrs, and an exhilarating showcase of basketball is expected. The first game of the night will see the Harpy Eagles Conference Finals between Kwakwani Untouchables and Kitty/Campbellville Ravens. Given that the Untouchables won the only game they played against Ravens in the regular season, this matchup will be one of revenge for the Ravens.

On the other hand, the last game of the Jaguar Conference first round will close off the night’s proceedings.

This

is a do-or-die matchup for both teams, as the Bounty Colts, with young players like Domitre Rankin, come up against the McDoom/ Prospect Kobras. As such, the encounter is expected to be filled with fireworks.

At the Conference Finals, teams will play the best-of-three games to determine who advances to the National Finals. The team winning the tournament would receive $1M along with trophies, while the runners-up would receive $500,000 plus trophies.

The tournament was made possible by sponsorship from the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry; G-Boats Guyana; National Sports Commission, G u y a n a B a s k e t b a l l Federation, and Georgetown B a s k e t b a l l Federation.

A look at what to expect at Saturday’s basketball games

Paris 2024 medals to Toolsie Persaud Ltd reaffirms include Eiffel Tower metal support for golf development

Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, unveiled the medals

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edals for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris would feature metal taken from the Eiffel Tower.

Organisers unveiled the medals, which have hexagon-shaped tokens forged out of scrap iron from the monument embedded in them.

“It’s the opportunity for the athletes to bring back a piece of Paris with them,” said Thierry Reboul, creative director of Paris 2024, on Thursday. “The absolute symbol of Paris and France is the Eiffel Tower.”

The central pieces of the gold, silver and bronze medals have been taken

from iron girders and other parts of the Eiffel Tower, replaced during refurbishments. Scrap metal from the tower, named after Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower between 1887 and 1889, had been stored for years in a warehouse in a secret location.

A French luxury jewellery firm based in Paris designed the medals, and 5,084 of them will be produced by France’s mint, the Monnaie de Paris.

The back of each Olympic medals features the Greek goddess of victory, Nike, charging forward, with the Acropolis to one side and the Eiffel Tower

to the other.

Medals for the Paralympics feature a view of the Eiffel Tower from underneath, and are stamped with Paris 2024 in braille - in homage to Frenchman Louis Braille, who invented the reading and writing system for visually impaired people.

The Paris Olympics will run from 24 July to 11 August, with the Paralympics held between 28 August and 8 September.

The Paris 2024 Olympics will feature medals in 329 events in 32 sports, while the Paralympics will include 549 events in 22 sports. (BBC Sport)

From left: Seth Persaud, Asst. Manager; Alanna Kissoon, customer service rep; Kevin Ewing-Chow, sales executive; Vanessa Singh, customer service representative

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ardware and building supplies giant Toolsie Persaud Ltd. and its Group of Companies continue their long-term support for the efforts being made by Nexgen Golf and the Guyana Golf Association, to develop playing facilities for beginner golfers and students at the Westside Golf Course.

A section of the facility is being built with materials contributed by the hardware giant, which included bathroom fittings, piping, doors, paint and electrical supplies

from the wide range of products the company carries.

According to GGA president Aleem Hussain, “Toolsie Persaud Ltd and Group of Companies has been a staunch supporter and sponsor, who has helped the development of golf in Guyana over the past three years. Every major event that we held involving youngsters has received their support and we are extremely grateful to have them on board for this project.”

The Westside Golf

Course was designed and built by Hussain, and has been featured in Golf Architecture Magazine last October as an innovative approach to the expansion of the game by reducing playing and maintenance costs, thereby allowing a larger portion of the population access to a previously elitist sport.

The new course is located in Vreed-en-Hoop, and will host Phagwah and Easter celebrations, since the Vieira Park is under renovation.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

West Indies Championships…

Rain plays spoilsport on day 2 I t was rain, rain and more rain in St. Kitts and Nevis on Thursday, as heavenly showers put a damper on the West Indies Regional 4-Day Championships which bowled off on Wednesday.

For the Guyana Harpy Eagles, who are taking on the Trinidad and Tobago

Red Force at the Conaree Cricket Center, no play was possible as it rained through the morning session. By afternoon, the day’s play was suspended.

The Red Force ended Day 1 on 214-5, after Jason Mohamed patiently constructed his 12th first-class century. Tion Webster add-

Joshua James led a superb bowling attack for the West Indies Academy on day 1, but no play was possible on day 2

ed to the Trinidadians’ resistance with a half century. For the Harpy Eagles, Ronsford Beaton and Veerasammy Permaul picked up two wickets each.

Over at Warner Park, also in St. Kitts, the situation was the same, as the West Indies Academy were hampered from continuing their dominance over the Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

On day 1, a combined effort from the Academy bowlers routed the Hurricanes cheaply.

Joshua James picked up 3-11 from 7 overs, while Guyanese Ashmead Nedd took 2-3 from 10.2 overs, inclusive of 7 maidens.

Johann Layne and captain Nyeem Young also picked up two wickets to assist in bowling out the Hurricanes for 137 runs.

A late spur from Jeremiah Louis was the highlight of the Hurricanes’ innings, as he hit 45 from 123 balls. The next best score came off the

The covers stayed on on day 2 as a result of rain in St. Kitts and Nevis

Ashmead Nedd picked up two wickets for the Academy on day 1

bat of Terrence Warde who struck 28 from 68 balls.

In reply, the West Indies Academy were 60-2 be-

MVP Dhanai ready for AJM Mash It Up T20 tournament

AAG to host Academy A meet on February 10 …Final CARIFTA trials set for next weekend

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he Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), will host an academy meet on Saturday, February 10, from 10:00h at the Police Sports Club ground in Eve Leary.

According to a release from the AAG, teams are expected from Linden, New Amsterdam, West Berbice, East Bank and East Coast Demerara, and Georgetown.

The meet caters to athletes aged six to twelve, and the aim is to “steer them in the right direction,” the AAG explained.

Athletics is one of the 12 core sports identified to benefit from the National Sports Academy Programme.

Meanwhile, the AAG

has also informed that the last trials to select the country’s team for the CARIFTA Games would be held on February 17 and 18 at the National Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara. CARIFTA Games are set for March 30 – April 1 in Grenada.

Thus far, Tianna Springer (400m & 200m), Athaleya Hinckson (100m), Duel Europe (Long Jump), Attoya Harvey (1500m & 800m), Kaidon Persaud (400m & 800m), Javon Roberts (800m), Ezekiel Newton (100m & 200m), Charissa December (High Jump), Ryan Joseph (High Jump), and Jaheel Cornette (200m) have booked their spots for the regional event.

fore close of play, after losing Rashawn Worrell and Kadeem Alleyne for 13 and 4 runs respectively.

Nonetheless, Mbeki Joseph and Ackeem Auguste were unbeaten on 30 and 15 respectively.

Rain at Warner Park meant that the scores would remain the same if play is to resume today. Should the weather hold, both games will resume at 10:00hrs local time, and they are being streamed live on West Indies’ YouTube page.

JM Most Valuable all-rounder Suresh Dhani is eager to get going on Saturday February 24 in the AJM Mash It Up T20 tournament at Bush Lot Sports Complex, West Coast Berbice.

Dhanai was the player of the tournament in the inaugural AJM Second Division T20 tournament, where he scored 281 runs across six games and picked up 18 wickets, including a hattrick in the third-place playoffs.

“I must say the AJM Mash IT Up T20 Tournament will be another very exciting one. It is slated to be the settlement of all grievances from the previous AJM Tournament with the Defending Champions, Runner Ups, third and fourth place teams battling once again for supremacy. I can’t wait,” Dhanai said.

Dhani, who hails from East Canje Berbice, played under lights in the previous encounter, and he described the event as a Caribbean Premier League-like atmosphere.

“The experience was one like no other in the Final and third place play-offs that was played on December 26, last year. The fans were treated to some very high standard and excitement in both matches. The thirdplace play-offs ended with the home team, AJM Bush Lot United Sports Club winning that match by means of a hat trick in the penultimate over.”

According to Dhanai, all the fans present were on their feet jumping and screaming at the top of their voices enjoying the moment.

“I would be looking to

the cricket-loving population.

Notable senior Berbice cricketers Seon Hetmyer, Leon Swamy and Dhanai, who tasted success in a recent tournament, and young Arif Khan, a Guyana Under-15 player who plies his trade for Cotton Tree, are expected to be on show.

This event is sponsored

by AJM Enterprise and Jumbo Jet and powered by Banks DIH Limited.

Suresh Dhanai with his ‘player of the tournament’ cheque in December 2023

once again dominate and walk away with another Player of the tournament award. This would not be an easy task as the tournament comprises a lot of very talented, discipline committed cricketers.”

This edition of the AJM Mash It Up T20 tournament would be played for one day, and according to the all-rounder, Dhanai, this approach would be an even more exciting and breathtaking one.

“It must be noted that since the date the tournament was launched, I have started preparations to get myself for this huge tournament. Failing to prepare is preparing yourself to fail. These preparations would give me that extra push to keep my eyes on the Championship trophy this time round,” Dhanai explained.

The right-handed all-rounder who bowls brisk medium pace, is encouraging all cricket fans to be a part of this CPL-like atmosphere at the Bush Lot

Sports Complex Ground on February 24.

Some of the country’s finest cricketers will battle for supremacy with over two million dollars in cash and prizes up for grabs. The top team will be rewarded one million dollars, while other clubs will also be rewarded.

Four teams in the West Berbice area will be on show, namely AJM defending T20 champions Cotton Tree Sports Club, D’Edward Sports Club, Achievers A and Bush Lot Sports Club.

The day’s activity will commence at 09:00h and the final will be played under lights. There will be big screen, commentary and live scores at the venue with Crown Vibes International providing sounds.

This tournament will bring a CPL atmosphere, the organisers have promised. Cheerleaders will be on show, in addition to other side attractions.

AJM Enterprise aims to develop cricket in the West Berbice area and provide quality entertainment to

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

West Indies’ star power returns as Australia assess top-order squeeze T

he third ODI between Australia and West Indies was completed well inside the length of a T20, but now that format comes properly into view as the two teams switch their focus to building up to the World Cup in June.

Australia have six matches in the next three weeks, with another set of games against New Zealand after this series, but for West Indies this could be their last outing before having to settle on a World Cup squad.

However, their T20I side is the most settled of the three formats, and they beat England 3-2 in December (which followed a 3-2 win over India) with a squad very similar to the one touring Australia, which suggests there aren’t too many holes to fill.

Australia’s World Cup questions

The same can probably be said of Australia, although they are using the pair of three-match series slightly differently.

Four multi-format players Steven Smith, Travis Head, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc - will rest during the West Indies matches, before returning in New Zealand.

The 15-player squad for that tour is likely to be very close to the final one taken for the World Cup, although there are a few debates to have.

Firstly, there is the question of who partners David Warner at the top of the order in what will be the swansong to his international career. Head would appear to be the frontrunner although Smith has made clear he would like to do it, while Matt Short (who will miss the West Indies series due to injury) is another option as is Josh Inglis.

Captain Mitchell Marsh will likely slot in at No. 3

got Davey who’s arguably our best T20 opening batter, Mitchell Marsh has done it, Greeny’s done it, ‘Ingo’ [Inglis] could find himself doing it as well, he batted three in India. There’s plenty of people that are pushing for that opening spot.”

Then there is who takes the fourth pace-bowling spot behind the big three quicks.

Nathan Ellis seemingly heads the list having been selected for New Zealand although needs to shake off some lingering injury issues and won’t face West Indies.

Jason Behrendorff, named Australia’s T20I player of the year last week, can mount a very strong case as can allrounder Sean Abbott while Spencer Johnson has put together another impressive BBL. One bowling name who has drifted down the peck-

and could play as a specialist batter.

West Indies’ big guns are back

For the first time on this tour, West Indies have what could be considered their strongest squad available.

Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers, who weren’t available for the Test series due to franchise commitments, are back, as are Sherfane Rutherford and Brandon King who missed the ODIs. Alongside having Andre Russell (who has only played one previous T20I in Australia) and Nicholas Pooran, there should be no shortage of batting power.

Russell returned to the T20I stage against England in December for the first time since the 2021 World Cup in the UAE, having been headhunted by new white-ball coach Daren Sammy. He re-

West Indies have won their last three T20I series Mayers made just one appearance in the SA20 for Durban’s Super Giants.

One way or the other, though, the series promises plenty of runs: since the start of 2023, Australia are the second-fastest scoring T20I team with a strike-rate of 158.24 and West Indies are fourth at 153.10.

The squads

Australia: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

West Indies Rovman Powell (capt), Shai Hope, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas. (ESPNCricinfo)

Mash Street Football Championships…

Trophy Stall, Cedric Imports, Nel Global, UK Goods on board Andre Russell made an impressive return to international cricket against England ing order is left-arm spinner Ashton Agar. He was a late scrubbing from the ODI World Cup, largely to accommodate an injured Head, and has now been overlooked for both T20 squads. The indications are that, as in India, Australia won’t take a sec-

David Warner will be back in Australia colours, but who opens alongside him remains a question

at the World Cup but could easily open. Cameron Green, who isn’t part of either of these two squads in order to focus on red-ball cricket, could yet come up on the rails, particularly if he has a strong IPL with Australia’s selectors saying that tournament will play a part in their thinking.

“It’s a good thing for Australian cricket to have a little bit of a logjam there with opening batters,” Matthew Wade said ahead of the opening game. “We’ve

23

ond frontline spinner to the Caribbean, instead using Short and Glenn Maxwell in support of Adam Zampa.

The final question might be who takes the keeping gloves. Inglis and Wade are both in the upcoming squads. Wade will do so in the opening match against West Indies and is still viewed as a strong option for the middle-order finishing role he did so well in 2021, but Inglis has shown his versatility around the order in white-ball cricket

sponded with a player of the match display in his first outing, then indicated this year’s World Cup will mark the end of his international career (or maybe not).

“I still have a lot left in the tank,” he said. “But, you know, based on discussions with the coach, I told him that after the World Cup I would walk away from international cricket, but if they need me, I will come out of retirement.”

He is bringing some encouraging form to Australia, having made 192 runs at a strike-rate of 228.57 in the ILT20. Pooran, meanwhile, left the tournament as the highest run-scorer with 261 at a strike-rate of 170.58 while Johnson Charles was also consistent.

Rutherford struggled somewhat with 105 runs in seven innings, while T20I captain Rovman Powell only managed 71 runs of which 40 came in one knock.

Meanwhile, King had a tough run in the BPL with just 36 runs in six innings and

isation behind the event, Sports Management Inc., had indicated that it is a huge undertaking, but they are relying on their experience in creating and managing big sports activities.

Interest in the competition has been growing as the event returns to the calendar after missing out last year. The competition last held in 2022 was easily one of the biggest rivalries ever witnessed in Street Football.

Popular dancehall queen and Ambassador for the Street Football Showdown, Samarca Evelyn, collectCedric Payne (left) of Cedric Imports and Ramesh Sunich ed the trophies and indicat(right) of Trophy Stall flank Brand Ambassador Samarca ed that based on her knowlEvelyn yesterday at the Trophy Stall in Bourda Market edge of what is planned for The event will fea- the event, fans and enthuel Global Security on Tuesday hand- ture 16 of the top Street siasts will be captivated on ed over their sup- Football teams in a one-day the night. She said that full port for the upcoming Mashramani Street Football Showdown that will be held on Sunday February 18th at the National Park from 6:30pm. The security firm has been a consistent supporter of the event over the years.

On the same day, another company, UK Goods and Services, also trumped-up support for the event.

Meanwhile on Wednesday, Cedric Imports and Trophy Stall ensured that the hype and swagger Administrative Assistant at Nel Global Security Inc., surrounding the much-antic- Sharay Johnson, (right) making the presentation to Brand ipated Mashramani Street Ambassador of the event, Samarca Evelyn, yesterday Football Championship condetails will be disclosed at tinue when they handed Showdown that will deter- the upcoming launch of the over the second and third mine the creme de le creme event. place trophies respectively. in the format. The organ-

N

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

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West Indies Championships…

AAG to host Academy meet on February 10 …Final CARIFTA trials set for next weekend

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