Guyana Times - Monday, October 2, 2023

4.2M tonnes in construction aggregates produced in 1st half of 2023 …increased declarations driven by private, public sector demand

Amid a steadily growing demand for construction aggregates as Guyana is in the midst of a construction boom, over 4.2 million tonnes in construction aggregates (sand and stone) were declared in the 2023 first half.

According to the Bank of Guyana’s half-year report, both sand and crushed stone production increased in the 2023 first half, compared to the corresponding period for last year. While sand declarations recorded a 52.6 per cent increase, crushed stone also recorded a 71.7 per cent increase.

“Sand declared increased by 52.6 percent to 3,545,432 tonnes from 2,323,238 tonnes, while crushed stone declared, similarly, increased by 71.7 percent to 727,701 tonnes, during the review period.”

“The increase in declaration was driven by increased demand due to construction activities by both the private and public sector. Manganese production decreased by 21.9 percent to 138,640 tonnes, from 177,513 tonnes, one year earlier,” the Bank of Guyana stated.

It is detailed in the report that the construction sector experienced “sustained and robust growth”, which saw it expanding by 44.1 percent at end-June 2023. This outturn, according to the report, reflected the continued

increase in Government infrastructure projects, along with rapid private sector development initiatives.

In addition to higher production from the other mining sector, specifically sand and stone, the report further notes that the mining and quarrying sector recorded output growth of 89.9 per cent, primarily from the oil and gas sector.

“Greater crude oil production contributed to the sizeable growth of the petroleum sector, while growth in construction activities influenced increased declarations in the other mining sector,” the report states.

It has previously been revealed that the massive road projects for the public sector in 2023 will require a whopping six million tonnes of aggregates and while this is viewed as a positive

sign, the Government is now faced with the challenge of meeting these demands.

This was according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo while addressing a gathering at the launch of the part-time jobs in Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) late last year, where he shared that apart from the public sector’s demand, the private sector will also require significant aggregate resources.

At the national level, the country can produce about 600,000 tonnes, representing just 10 percent of the demand. For this, he shared that Government is exploring various options to keep the construction sector going. Neighbouring countries such as Suriname and Trinidad are also unable to fulfil these needs.

“We need next year, about six million tonnes of crusher-run and stones for the road programmes. That’s the public sector alone, leaving out the private sector, all the buildings and construction,” Jagdeo had said.

“With the new quarries coming on stream, we’ll probably be able to produce 10 percent of that, about 600,000 tonnes. We need 10 times more quarry products that we can produce…We may have to explore bring-

ing in stone from Canada or some other part of the world if we want to keep the building programme going for the Government sector,” he had further shared.

The public sector side of spending has been a significant contributor to the construction boom. Of the $72.2 billion allocated for the housing and water sectors in this year’s budget, $54.5 billion was set aside for housing development in new and existing areas across the country.

The money will be used for development in new and existing areas, including the construction of roads, drains, and bridges and the installation of utilities to meet housing demands. Areas will include Mabaruma, Oronoque, Buxton/St Joseph, Stewartville, Wakenaam, Block A & B Hope, Success, Balthyock, and No 75 Village. The Government will also undertake infrastructural works in regularised areas, such as Charity, Tuschen, Chateau Margot, Block SS Sophia, Belvedere,

and Amelia’s Ward.

In August of this year, $61.013 billion in supplementary funding was approved in the National Assembly. A significant chunk of this money, to the tune of $33.37 billion, is for the Public Works Ministry, spanning capital projects.

Some $25 billion for road works is for construction and rehabilitation of community roads; $1.5 billion for rehabilitation of hinterland roads and $1 billion for urban road works.

Construction of the Wismar Bridge warranted a sum of $2.1 billion, while $600 million has been earmarked to address emerging threats along the sea and river defence network.

Emergency works and resources needed to restore the Kumaka and Supenaam Stellings are expected to cost $32.7 million from the estimates provided. For advancement of works at Kingston Goods Wharf and Morawhanna, Port Kaituma and Kumaka Stellings, $2.5 billion was requested from the House. (G3)

Exemplify professionalism, courtesy – Traffic Chief to ranks

In a commanding call to action, Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, addressing all Traffic ranks gathered at the Region 4A Divisional Headquarters in Georgetown on Sunday morning, emphasised the importance of professionalism and courtesy in their line of duty.

The occasion was a muster and inspection exercise, aligning with Force Procedure and Standing Orders.

During the inspection, Singh reviewed the ranks on parade, addressing them on crucial matters concerning Welfare, Performance, and Conduct. The Chief’s emphasis was not just on enforcing the law but on being ambassadors of trust.

He reminded the ranks that their interactions were

windows through which both foreign nationals and residents perceive the nation.

Earlier this year, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken conducted a general inspection for appearance and conduct with ranks from the Police Headquarters at Eve Leary, Georgetown, and sounded warnings against indiscipline during the conduct of their duties.

The top official reminded the ranks that demand will always be great, noting that ex-

cellent work gives you more. He also charged the ranks to maintain discipline and professionalism despite challenges faced in or out of the line of duty.

Punctuality, discipline, and absenteeism were other areas that Commissioner Hicken spoke about during his remarks. He also spoke extensively on the steps that the Guyana Police Force is taking concerning modernisation and building the capacity of the Force to serve the nation. (G9)

A recently-commissioned quarry at Batavia, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)

Traffic ranks during the muster exercise

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Monday, Oct 2 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Tuesday, Oct 3 – 04:00h –05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, Oct 2 – 06:10h –07:40h and Tuesday, Oct 3 – 06:55h – 08:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 25 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East South-Easterly between 3.12 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 06:12h and 18:21h reaching maximum heights of 2.76 metres and 2.79 metres.

Low Tide: 11:58h reaching a minimum height of 0.53 metre.

Agriculture Month

Productivity boosted through modernisation, improved crop & livestock management – Pres Ali

…Caricom’s Vision 25 by 2025 already achieved 57% implementation – Mustapha

al pressures by boosting agricultural productivity through modernisation and improved crop livestock management practices,” he stated.

The President added that the country’s commitment to the 25% by 2025 target demonstrates its seriousness in transforming agriculture and becoming the ‘food hub’ of the Caricom Region.

Agri-Investment Expo

With agriculture a top priority on the Government’s agenda, President Dr Irfaan Ali said that they have been driving increased productivity through the adaptation of modernised farming techniques as well as enhanced crop and livestock management practices.

The Head of State made this remark in his message to commemorate Agriculture Month – observed in October annually. The theme for this year’s observance is “Accelerating Vision 25 by 2025: Investing in Agri-Business and Food Security.”

According to President Ali, this theme is fitting, given the important role Guyana’s agriculture sector plays in reducing the Caribbean’s food insecurity. Guyana is currently leading the Caribbean Community’s (Caricom’s) ambitious target of reducing its high food import bill and dependence on extra-regional foods by 25% by the year 2025.

The Guyanese leader said this year’s Agriculture Month is an opportunity to herald the contribution of agriculture in the country’s development.

“Agriculture is the foundation of our food security, ensuring that every citizen has access to safe and nutritious meals. It connects us to our cultural heritage, preserving traditions that have sustained us for generations. Our focus as a Government is developing a sustainable integrated agri-food system.”

“While global and environmental challenges continue to affect the agriculture sector, the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Agriculture, remains committed to implementing climate adaptation strategies and mitigating glob-

will unleash the untapped potential of the Caribbean Community's agricultural sectors.

“This event presents a unique occasion to delve into state-of-the-art technologies, sustainable methodologies, and expanded market opportunities, positioning Guyana and the entire Caribbean Region as leaders in agricultural excellence.”

Against this backdrop, Ali pointed out that the upcoming Agri-Investment Expo in Guyana, from October 20 to 22, 2023 –the second of its kind to be held here, is poised to transform the landscape of the agricultural industry within the Region. He said it will serve as a collaborative platform for investors, visionaries, and stakeholders to converge, establishing alliances that

“This event, among many, being held during Agriculture Month 2023 will build a greater sense of awareness among stakeholders about the vast opportunities within the agricultural sector and the role that every actor along the food value chain can play in the development process. We look forward to the usual participation of the private sector, civil society, NGOs, international organisations and our farmers as we roll out

several activities during this month,” the Guyanese leader noted.

He further urged stakeholders to unite in their commitment to the growth and prosperity of the agriculture sector, adding that together they can overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and ensure that agriculture continues to flourish as a bastion of Guyana's development.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Views

Editor: Tusika Martin

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A Chinese world?

At the end of September, for the first time, the Chinese Government published a comprehensive account of the “Community of Common Destiny for Mankind”, which its leadership in the Communist Party has been developing over the past four decades – in parallel with its inexorable economic rise to become the second largest economy in the world. While it is replete with virtue-signalling phrases, it offers an insight into Beijing’s strategic intentions on a wide range of global issues such as trade, climate change, cyber operations, and security cooperation. It is important that we understand “where the Chinese are coming from” in their own words since we will be making choices in a fast-polarising word between the US and China.

Basically, China is seeking to change the global environment and institutions so that it can play a greater role under new legitimising rules of the game. The present environment and institutions such as the UN, IMF, World Bank, WTO, etc, were formed after WWII when the US had emerged as the dominant power – the “hegemon” according to the Chinese – a state whose predominance depends on coercive power. The “universal values” enshrined in these institutions, according to the Chinese, are “imperialistic impositions of Western concepts on other civilisations”. The same claim is made on the political institutions and development models pioneered by the West and which are now seen as normative in international society. They feel that while some of these ideas and institutions are useful advances suitable for all peoples; others are simply relics that would have long disappeared were they not upheld by the “illegitimate American hegemony”.

In terms of political institutions, the Chinese also focus on “democracy” for all countries – but with a Chinese twist. In a 2015 speech to the United Nations, President Xi declared, “Consultation is an important form of democracy, and it should also become an important means of exercising international governance.”

So, the Chinese see “consultative democracy” as a fundamental value, both domestically and internationally. In the latter, this means China insists that in international institutions all nations should have an equal vote – which would effectively undermine America’s preeminent role in the UN and IMF, etc, and buttress China’s as it uses its financial largess to court votes.

But when we look at Chinese domestic democracy, we can observe the central contradiction in their high-sounding articulation. As one analyst pointed out: “Chinese official media disparage Western democratic regimes as chaotic, confrontational, competitive, inefficient, and oligarchic. They assert that China has developed a more enlightened form of democracy in its “new type of party system”. In this system, the Communist Party is the sole political authority, but minority parties and non-affiliated groups participate in parts of the decision-making process as outside consultants via the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. They argue that other features of China’s political system, such as people’s congresses and consensus-building “inner-party democracy,” purportedly make China’s “democracy” more effective than Western electoral democracy. There is, however, a clear contradiction between China’s articulation of “democracy” in international relations, which argues that all countries are equal regardless of size or political regime, and its approach in domestic politics, where a single party rules, minority parties serve as outside consultants, and dissenting voices are silenced.” If the world were reorganised along its declared vision, notwithstanding its protestations, would China not also become first among “equals” internationally.

In the latter arena, the Chinese see bilateral trade becoming the central organising principle of the new order replacing the defensive blocs and security treaties that they claim make American hegemony possible. The Belt and Road Initiative is one such organising principle that has been executed over the past decade and has now spread globally away from the initial EuroAsian Silk Road that inspired the concept. Even small nations in the Caribbean – including Guyana in South America – are now a part of this web. China is establishing itself as the centre hub of this global community, and we can expect new international institutions will be founded and existing ones altered in other facets of human endeavour.

PNC knows not how to play the ‘gentleman’s game’

Dear Editor,

What a fascinating summer we have experienced in 2023, not only around the world but more so, right here in our motherland, Guyana, especially in the field of accumulated events, visits, programmes, development and achievement. Summer continues in our country as the North embraces Fall. The Guyana Amazon Warriors have fulfilled the dreams of Guyanese finally and that elation still lingers in our beautiful ambience with nostalgia. The President’s ‘One Guyana’ theme exploded with fireworks at Providence and the Guyanese feeling of being on the same team was toasted with the taste of victory, on and off the field.

Most true Guyanese left the ball park, exalted, excited and exemplified in exuberance, allowing that unforgettable result to accompany them beyond the boundary so that they could reminisce that moment, over and over. Guyanese would want to retain that spirit for the rest of their lives as they continue to reside as neighbourly sisters and brothers, regardless of where they domain, their status, ethnicity, sex, religion or political affiliation.

The cricket fever influenced the mind, softened the hearts and made us appreciate the importance of working, playing, eating, drinking and living together because this land belongs to you and me. The change of mood hit us for six as we realised what and how much we allowed others to deny us, keep us in the dark and fool us with lies, all for their

selfish reasons as they live a lifestyle aloof of the man in the street. The flow from the pace of the ball and the power of the bat certainly shook us up for a sudden but succulent awakening. Guyanese badly needed a window of relief and this form of entertainment provided the foundation to exhale the pent up feeling of wanting to reach out to each other.

The morning after was a transition for most of us to bridge the gap of any indifferences, strengthen the bond to work together to build Guyana, sow the seed of unity and remove any barrier of discord. Most as a majority, of course, did not include but exclusively excluded the extremist, the extrinsic PNC, who wants to annihilate themselves from the peace all Guyanese are desirous of, alienate themselves from the progress Guyanese want to achieve and align themselves to destruction, rather than helping to build the road to prosperity which Guyanese want to traverse.

Not being a happy camper, the PNC was boiling in a hot pot of fury as they witnessed how Guyanese from all walks of life shook hands and toasted together as the Guyanese Warriors defeated the Trinidad and Tobago Knight Riders to carry away the coveted CPL 2023 trophy. Resenting the pride and joy Guyanese took in celebrating this victory as ‘all awe a wan family,’ they fussed and fumed as Guyanese openly hugged and embraced each other regardless of looks or likes.

Annoyed with Guyanese

sharing a togetherness of unity rather than diversity as they marched hand in hand on the day of the parade, the PNC failed to acknowledge this show of Guyanese euphemism. Quietly they scolded themselves into desultory and sulked to see this glorious period of Guyanese turning their backs on PNC politics of discrimination, racism and Guyanese misanthropy.

Incapacitated to relate to what they express, the PNC paints a picture of doom and gloom and so this mirth and joy extolled by Guyanese, is seen as a disgusted behaviour and unacceptable by them. They will not acquiesce with the idea that Guyanese want to diffuse the past and divert to the present so that they can direct a path for the future of all Guyanese. The PNC hide and house themselves in an unnatural habitat in a state of denial, forging a sense of illusion and living in the hope of negative predominance. They would rather Guyanese function in a society brewing on hate, fermented with violence, boiling with distrust, controlled by discrimination, peddled by propaganda, ruled by a dictator, governed by anarchy and executed by the fist of lawless behaviour. The inglorious days of the Kabaka must be kept alive with the ancestry of loyal fanatics.

This sweet note of melodious harmony from the entertaining game of sportsmanship cannot be sung by those refusing to shake hands and drink to the toast of friendship. They would prefer to knock glasses and

sing the song bearing malice, animosity and vengeance. The red eyes seeing only green, are sadly incapable of observing the sight of reality. They close their eyes and think greed only, either all or nothing. Power sharing for them is reduced to ring fencing with their kit and kin in the circle only. The UF were ousted, the AFC were sidelined, those opposing within were quickly extinguished and not distinguished and the potential challengers are not inclusive for consideration. That entails the inglorious certainties.

Unable to bear this sight of rejection, the PNC sought refuge in the arm of meditated retaliation, flying off to the land of the cold, where they can cool their tormented hearts, alight in a burning inferno. An excuse to abuse the use of fabricated issues, the PNC have extracted the abstraction of obstruction, destruction and corruption. Mo fya, slo fya is the marching order. For them, the season is now a trend of attempted treason without a reason. The Venezuelans are attempting to take over our land illegally. How different are the PNC? They are recruiting overseas reinforcement. War break all over again? The PNC have attempted to rig the last general election through illegitimate avenues. It was the US who sanctioned them. The US has no reason to ask the PPP/C to ‘step aside.’ The PNC knows not how to play the ‘gentleman’s game.’

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Young Ukrainian cadets of Kyiv's "Cadets Corp" military school dance after the graduation ceremony at the Monument to Prince Volodymyr in Kyiv, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. (AFP photo)

Bharrat Jagdeo undaunted by frivolous CGID-PNC-AFC claims

Dear Editor, The CGID event in Washington, DC, failed to achieve even their most minimal objectives. They expected the Americans to issue a statement condemning the PPP/C Administration, but none came. No one was interested. What is worse, is that only days before the September 27-28 event, it was reported that the Congressional Black Caucus, “had a productive meeting [with President Ali] and discussed a range of global issues including energy and food security, enhancing regional economic prosperity, and the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship.” The meeting included House Minority Leader, Mr Hakeem Jeffries.

The CGID event which was attended by a PNC-AFC delegation from Guyana, as well as some unknown groups in the diaspora was not taken seriously. In fact, no Caribbean delegation to the American Capitol has ever been received with more dismissiveness than the motley crew led by Aubrey Norton and Amanza Walton-Desir.

The delegation arrived empty-handed and returned empty-handed. The injuries they suffered were self-inflected by that most potent instrument called incompetence.

The so-called resolution circulated by CGID’s Rickford Burke is a tragic expression of how deranged leading personalities in the Opposition have become. Moreover, the personal attacks against General Secretary of the PPP and Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, is an act of vengeance because of Jagdeo’s formidable and courageous stand against aggressive bullyism by an Opposition known for electoral banditry, racial strife, intimidation, and slow fiah, mo fiah. I can assure the Guyanese people that Jagdeo, who is accused of the most absurd things by Burke (who is wanted by law enforcement in Guyana), will repel even the most consorted efforts at ruining his ability to defend democracy in this country. He has never been, and will not now be intimidated.

Let’s take cognisance of the more conspicuous instances of humiliation that the CGID-

PNC was totally embarrassed!

Dear Editor, They went to Washington as a supposedly unified team, thinking that Washington would gullibly believe their arguments and blindly accept their word for it. However, they were sadly mistaken as the authorities there did not buy into their story and with dispatch, quickly dismissed the motley crew.

I am speaking about the PNC-led team of individuals who went to Washington to seek redress as to the ‘wrongs’ being done to the Guyanese people. They were so full of that fallacy that they failed to take into account that that Anansi story was about to be put to educated listeners, who were bound to ask pointed questions. Hence the PNC crew were totally out of sorts, and was rebuffed with the statement "provide the evidence".

They committed the cardinal sin of coming to the USA with that Stabroek News, standpipe hearsay gaff, thinking that it might somehow gain traction here, but sadly it met an abrupt end. You see, lies have a strange way in confusing the bearer, because you have to have a good memory when you lie, as memory fades you are prone to forget the main theme of your lies and this somehow messes you up. But the PNC are used to being publicly embarrassed,

PNC-AFC-WPA experienced in their Washington sojourn.

First, the Americans asked the delegation for evidence of discrimination and corruption. Isn’t this what they went there to provide? To the utter dismay of the Americans, the Guyanese led by Aubrey Norton, Amanza WaltonDesir and Ganesh Mahipaul had no evidence to supply. Mr Roysdale Forde was given the task of explaining away the tragedy but all he was able to muster was - “today, we were requested again to provide data of discrimination and marginalisation by representatives.” He means members of the House of Representatives. The data humiliation was confirmed by other ‘delegates’ including, Chief Executive Officer of the International Decade for People of African Descent Assembly-Guyana (IDPADA-G), Olive SampsonCannings and by Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs Amanza Walton-Desir.

Secondly, numerous statements of falsehoods were presented. One of them was levelled against the Commissioner of

Information. One delegate stated that the lack of data asked for by the Americans was due to the unresponsiveness of the Commissioner of Information to requests made by Opposition members. That office is held by the indefatigable Justice Charles R Ramson (SC; OE). Justice Ramson gave this writer express permission to state unequivocally that all requests for information were, not only met, but met within hours. Justice Ramson has specifically confirmed that requests from Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton were met without delay.

Thirdly, the CGID-PNCAFC is misrepresenting an image in which House Minority Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, is photographed with a scattering of delegates. The photo is clearly taken by someone as a personal keepsake. Yet, CGID is representing it as an “official photo.” The truth is there is no official photo of any kind because the delegation did not have any official status. In fact, Leader Hakeem Jeffries disassociated himself from the event. On September 27, a for-

Stark point to ponder

so it did not make a difference on their part, they returned to Guyana and held a press conference as they shamelessly continued peddling their garbage in that business-as-usual fashion.

Hopefully, the PNC group had learned their lesson, I say hopefully with a great degree of reservation, because that idiotic fervour being belligerent with their lies, is a constant irritation here on a Guyana Stage, however, that foolishness would not survive on the American turf. As a bastion of democracy, the United States of America must uphold that outlook of being an example to the world, or else they will fall prey to the embarrassment that befell the PNC.

Further, the American Congress would have long since been apprised of the atrocities of the PNC, not respecting the Constitution, showing no respect for law and order. Topping the list would have been the bold attempt to rig the last election. So, no amount of sugarcoating could have persuaded them to do otherwise. I could hear the no-nonsense Congresswoman Maxine Waters giving them their marching orders, just "Go provide us with the evidence," and we will listen to you. How embarrassing!

Respectfully, Neil

Adams

Dear Editor, The item 'Former GDF Chief of Staff warns against large settlement of Venezuelans in Essequibo' (September 29) had an interesting and thought-provoking thought line at the beginning. The former CoS posited that with the influx of citizens from across the troubled sovereign state, the migration should be carefully managed to 'stave off the possibility of future generations of Spanish-speaking Guyanese calling for a ref-

erendum for that county to break away'. Casually mentioned but thought-provoking indeed!

The analogy of the case of Crimea which was seized by Russia in 2014 on the grounds that the population is made up of ethnic Russians is a stark point to ponder. The forthright and straightforward piece is timely and appropriate. Its suggestions should be considered.

Sincerely,

Shamshun Mohamed

lorn Burke had to scramble up a mea culpa to hide the ignominy of being left high and dry with the Jeffries no show.

Fourthly, there are reports (with videos) of several embarrassing presentations. One of them that went viral shows star witness Amanza Walton-Desir utterly confused with the level of funding for the Office of the Leader of the Opposition. The video clip shows Ms WaltonDesir mixing up US$35,000 (thirty-five thousand) with GY$35,000,000 (thirty-five million). When her arithmetic could not be sorted out, she simply caved in and provided an arbitrary number – $50,000,000. You got that right, fifty million.

Fifth, and finally, the CGID has again claimed that 1400 persons, mostly young Afro-Guyanese men, died via extra-judicial killing. Years back the number 400 was regularly thrown around. Careful investigative journalism by Stabroek News debunked this ‘theory.’ In fact, from the photographs shown, and the cause of death provided, it can be easily ascertained that many

of those killed were from criminal gangs. Moreover, scores of Indians, but especially Indian businesspeople were murdered by these same criminal gangs, some of them linked to political forces in the country that wanted the PPP/C overthrown.

The CGID-PNC-AFC conference in Washington, DC, on September 27-28, 2023, will be remembered for its abject failure to convince the US Congress of any of the charges levelled against the PPP/C Administration. The so-called resolution that was issued after the conference will meet the same fate. It will be ignored, and swiftly consigned to the dustbin of history. Most importantly, the Opposition should know that Bharrat Jagdeo cannot be troubled by a bunch of election riggers going to Washington, DC, to make complaints about discrimination. He has more important things to do, such as supporting President Ali in building this country. Stop wasting their time.

Sincerely,

Dr Randolph Persaud

Page Foundation

Test Questions

(a) Find the area of the house and garage.

(b) Find the perimeter of the lawn Saturday's answer

1a) 14 triangles

1b) There are four lines of symmetry

(CONTINUED FROM SATURDAY)

BY OVID

The buyer had to believe her. He went off, baffled. The girl took one step and was back In her own shape. Next thing, She was telling her father. And he,

Elated, saw business. After that On every market he sold her in some new shape. A trader bought a horse, Paid for it and found the halter empty

Where a girl sat selling mushrooms. A costly parrot escaped its purchaser Into an orchard––where a girl picked figs. One bought an ox that vanished from its pasture

In this fun and easy animal science experiment, we are going to create an animal track station to collect and study animal tracks.

Materials:

Large piece of plywood

Mud

Shallow tray or dish

Bird seed

Peanut butter

Lettuce

Instructions:

Mix the mud with water until it has a consistency that will spread easily over the plywood.

Place the plywood in an area where

you expect the most animal activity. Spread the mud over the plywood. Ensure the mud is roughly an inch deep.

Spread some peanut butter in the dish. Add some bird seed and lettuce as well.

Place the dish in the center of the mud-covered plywood.

Leave the plywood overnight.

Check the animal track station the following morning. It there are any tracks, use a field guide or the Internet to try and identify the tracks.

If there are no tracks, try moving the plywood to a new area or try to bait the animal tracking station with different types of food.

How it works:

The bird seed, peanut butter, and lettuce are used to attract animals that want to eat the items. As the animals approach the food, they leave tracks in the mud. The tracks can then be used to identify the animals that visited your track station.

Make this a science project: Put your animal track station in different areas and see if different animals visit. Try putting your animal track station out at different times of the year. Try different food to see if it attracts different types of animals. (sciencefun.org)

Where a girl gathered cowslips. So Erysichthon’s daughter plied her talent For taking any shape to cheat a buyer––Straight and crooked alike.

Al to feed the famine in her father. But none of it was enough. Whatever he ate Maddened and tormented that hunger To angrier, uglier life. The life

Of a monster no longer a man. And so, At last, the inevitable. He began to savage his own limbs. And there, at a final feast, devoured himself.

WORD SEARCH

Developing States should have presence on int’l financial institutions’ boards – Pres Ali

…says these, other issues must be resolved ahead of COP28

The important but as yet unresolved issue of developing countries having a seat at the table of international financial institutions, was recently emphasised by President Dr Irfaan Ali, when talking about some of the unresolved issues facing the world ahead of COP28.

During a recent appearance on the Atlantic Council, the Head of State spoke about Guyana’s expectations ahead of the United Nations (UN) Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), which will be held from November 30 to December 12.

He noted that the world is in a complex situation where it faces three crises at once – the food, climate and energy crises. With the particular vulnerability of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in mind, especially those in the Caribbean Community (Caricom), President Ali noted that them being represented on the Boards of international financial institutions must be addressed.

“COP28, there’s a lot of talk on what may be the outcome of COP28. But there’s some fundamental issues we should sort out before getting to COP28. Take for example the issue of adaptation. We

have not had a common position on that. We have not sorted out the issue of the development pledge, the $100 billion pledge,” President Ali said.

“So, we’re going into COP28 with so many unresolved issues. We have not sorted out the issue of having the most affected countries by climate change, especially in the Caricom Region, on the Boards of financial institutions. So that their interests can be better represented,” the Head of State added.

In addition to SIDS being represented on the Boards of international financial institutions, loss and damage conse-

quences of climate change on the most vulnerable are also still to be addressed. Then there is the carbon market, where Guyana and other forested countries are looking to sell their carbon credits.

“We have not sorted out issues in relation to loss and damage. We’re not sorted out issues on the carbon market. How we’re going to develop a mature carbon market, one that is structured especially for carbon from the forest and ensuring that isn’t a voluntary market, but a very structured market,” President Ali noted.

To be held from November 30 to December 12, the 28th

Productivity boosted through...

Vision 25 by 2025 progress

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar

Mustapha noted that this Agriculture Month is being observed at a time when Guyana is undergoing significant transformation in the as diversification takes place and agri-investments are being made towards ensuring that the food security of the nation is maintained.

Added to this, Guyana, over the last few years, re-emerged as a leader in agriculture across the Caricom Region, having taken the lead in reducing the high dependency on extra-regional imports by 25 percent by 2025.

Mustapha noted that to date, “The Caricom Member States have so far achieved overall 57% of the target towards Vision 25 by 2025. However, there is more to be done over the next two years… With Guyana being a key contributor to achieving Vision 25 by 2025, and poised to be the food hub of the Caricom Region, we are cognisant of the development that is needed in the agriculture sector.”

The Minister outlined that increasing production and transforming the local agri-food system with food

security being the primary focus, requires significant investment. To this end, he added, Government is open to fostering partnerships with both regional and international financial institutions and investors to address the concern of food security and the threat of climate change.

“Our Government will continue to invest in every facet of the agriculture sector by continuing to expand cultivation and production to reduce imports, increase exports and foster diversification while seeking to implement innovative measures to drive sustainable production.”

“The Government continues to invest in opening up new agriculture lands,

Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change will provide a platform for world leaders, Ministers and negotiators to develop solutions to address climate change.

At the previous Conference of the Parties –COP27 – which was held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt in December of last year, one outcome was the setting up of a climate fund for poorer and more vulnerable countries, which would constitute “loss and damage” funding.

Meanwhile, the Fourth SIDS International Conference – to be held in Antigua and Barbuda from May 27-30, 2024 – will similarly bring world leaders together to agree on a new programme that focuses on

practical and impactful solutions to keep SIDS afloat and maintain a sustainable, safe future.

With Guyana’s appointment in June of this year to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Guyana is now positioned to be the voice of SIDS at the lev-

el of the Security Council. On June 6, 2023, Guyana was voted in as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2024-2025 term – a move that President Ali had said would significantly enhance the country’s global standing. (G3)

FROM PAGE 3

building farm to market roads, establishing modern farms, upgrading infrastructure, constructing agro-processing facilities and encouraging the production of non-traditional agricultural commodities… As we commercialise the agriculture sector, let us work together to develop the entire agri-food value chain and increase our competitive advantage through collaboration in ventures that link producers, processors, marketers, food service companies, retailers and shippers and suppliers. Let us collectively strive to achieve Guyana’s full agricultural potential,” Mustapha stated. (G8)

President Dr Irfaan Ali

2 motorists on $1M bail for causing death by dangerous driving charges

Two men were required to individually post $500,000 bail when they appeared before Senior Magistrate Zamilla AllySeepaul on Friday on separate counts of causing death by dangerous driving.

David Simon Isaac, 21, of Parika Façade, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), entered a not guilty plea to the accusation that he rode a motor vehicle recklessly on June 19, causing the death of Lloyd Garraway, 45. This defendant was required to post a $500,000 bail.

Garraway, of Lot 1801 Parika, EBE, succumbed to his injuries at the Leonora Cottage Hospital following an accident on June 19.

According to reports, Garraway, a pedal cyclist, was attempting to cross the roadway when he was struck down by an alleged speeding driver at about 02:40h.

The vehicle, PAD 3432, was driven by the 21-yearold at the time.

Police preliminary reports stated that the speeding motor car collided with Garraway as he was crossing the Hydronie Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

As a result of the impact, he sustained bodily injuries which rendered him unconscious.

No traces of alcohol were found in the driver’s body.

Meanwhile, Anil Ruplal, a 19-year-old motorcycle rider, who is accused of causing the death of

26-year-old Muneshwar Singh on the Leonora Public Road, WCD, on June 30, also appeared in court. He too was granted $500,000 bail.

Dead is 26-year-old Muneshwar Singh of Cornelia Ida, WCD. Based on reports received, at the time of the accident, Singh was riding motorcycle CM 1052 along the Leonora Public Road when another motorcycle, CL 9563, ridden by a 19-year-old, collided with him.

Police stated that the teenager was proceeding east along the northern side of the road at a fast rate of speed and whilst overtaking a motor car, he lost control, flipped, and collided with Singh.

At the time, Singh was proceeding in the opposite direction. As a result of the collision, both riders fell onto the roadway and received injuries on their bodies.

In an unconscious state, Singh was picked up by public-spirited persons and rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. The teenage rider was also taken to the medical facility where he was treated and later handed over to the Police.

No traces of alcohol were detected in his system.

Both Isaac and Ruplal will return to the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on December 5. (G1)

Essequibo Coast man nabbed with illegal ammo, ganja

A21-year-old Essequibo Coast, Region

Two (PomeroonSupenaam) resident was arrested after he was found with a live 12-gauge cartridge and marijuana.

Reports are that the man known as “Blackie”, of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, was apprehended on Friday after being discovered in possession of a live 12-gauge cartridge and approximately half a gram of marijuana.

During a routine operation at about 18:50h, Police officers noticed that the man was acting in a suspicious manner while sitting under

The illegal ammunition that was found in the man’s possession

a tree in an unoccupied lot.

Upon conducting a search, the officers found a live 12-gauge cartridge, an empty casing, a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems

suspected to be marijuana, and a cylinder-shaped metal object believed to be an improvised weapon, all in his right-side pants pocket.

In response to his ar-

…the Washington Whine

The PNC has a habit of giving names to its announcements – such as the “Declaration of Sophia” when Burnham announced that the PNC was “paramount” over the State!! More recently, we had the WPA – which is now joined at the hip with the party that assassinated Rodney – announcing the “Buxton Declaration”. No, this wasn’t a repeat of the “Buxton Freedom Fighters” declaration of war against the Guyanese State in general and the Police in particular.

It was to demand that the Government not use the oil revenues to create a sustainable future but dish out $1,000,000 yearly to every one of the 223,000 Guyanese families!! Clearly, they’re too “educated” to have read “The Grasshopper and the Ant” – where the Grasshopper ate, drank and was merry all summer long while the ants laboured at saving grains for the winter!! Seems the WPA types are comfortable with us begging the world for handouts when our oil runs out!! While Eric Williams had bragged that “oil doan spoil”, his successor Rowley’s having to deal with the reality that “oil does done”!!

Anyhow, now that the PNC and their front groups have returned to dear Mudland after their presentations to the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), your Eyewitness has decided to dub their outpourings, “The Washington Whine”!! ‘Cause that’s all it is, innit?? It was like a kid whining and wailing to his mother that “the table hit me, Maa!!” They took no responsibility for even collecting proof of their allegations – and yet expected the CBC would influence the Biden Administration to remove the PPP from office!! After their role in the Mingo manoeuvre to rig the elections, irony clearly isn’t their strong suit!! The CBC effectively bitch-slapped them and told them to grow up!!

rest, the man said he was "trying to make a gun" because he owns a farm in the Pomeroon River, and animals were damaging his crops. He claimed he was unable to obtain a firearm licence.

At the Suddie Police Station, the marijuana was weighed in his presence, totalling half a gram.

He additionally claimed that he acquired the live cartridge and empty casing from an unnamed friend but declined to disclose the friend's identity or provide an address. He remains in custody pending charges. (G9)

Labourer charged over LBI hit and run fatality

The driver, who allegedly fatally struck down Triumph, East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident Patrick Nicholas Mamasee before fleeing, faced several charges when he appeared in court last week.

A charge of failing to report an accident, failing to stop after an accident, and failing to provide aid to the injured was brought against Edward Sampson, 37, of Lot 61 Graham's Hall, ECD.

Sampson, a labourer, appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Alisha George. After denying the allegations, he was released on $80,000 bail.

The probe into the death caused by reckless driving is still going on.

The accused is scheduled to return to court on October 20.

Following the accident, which occurred on September 21, the Police

had sought the public’s assistance in identifying the victim. The vehicle involved in the fatal hit and run accident, PMM 8295, was later found, and the driver surrendered to the Police.

The accident took place at around 22:30h, and

the man was found unconscious on the roadway with visible injuries to his body. Concerned residents notified the Police, leading to the mobilisation of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) for assistance.

The injured man was then transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where, upon arrival, an examination revealed the extent of the victim’s injuries, including a fractured right foot and various other bodily traumas. His condition was deemed critical, and despite the efforts of the medical team at the GPHC, the man succumbed to his injuries. (G1)

But the PPP Government has responded to their whines and your Eyewitness will take a gander. To the complaint that the PPP ain’t engaging their local representatives, the former insisted it ain’t so!! As one who observes these things, the Opposition clearly sees “engagement” as the Govt negotiating around some table with their reps – while the persons who’re supposed to be served languish on the vine!! It would appear that the PPP’s determined to break specifically “ethnic” representation – by demonstrating that they are governing for ALL the people and as such, can direct service all the peoples!!

On the specific charge that the Government wasn’t executing their commitment to the Decade for People of African Descent agenda, here again the Government insisted that subventions were going DIRECTLY to people of African Descent and their organisations – rather than self-appointed guardians with agendas of their own. Ditto for political representation.

Your Eyewitness believes the PNC gotta do some serious introspection!!

…the Haitian dilemma

Your Eyewitness returns to the tragedy of Haiti –which has now become a poster child for anarchy. Any Guyanese who feel that a country can’t remain at the bottom of the barrel indefinitely ought to consider Haiti’s plight. Now the US is being blamed from some quarters for the Haitian situation and their recent efforts to cobble together an international force to bring some order to give Haitians some breathing space is being dubbed an “invitation by proxy”!!

Kenya is gonna lead the incursion under the auspices of the UN Security Council which just passed a resolution. So what’s the solution to the gangs controlling the Haitian capital and making lives unbearable for the citizenry?? This would simply prove the old aphorism that "Silence in the face of injustice is complicity with the oppressor." Caricom has already accepted in principle the need for an intervention in its member state Haiti.

Your Eyewitness believes that Guyana ought to step up to the crease and commit a specific number of troops!

…the Washington Whine’s resolution

The Washington Whiners passed a “resolution” starting with the claim that “1400 young black men” were killed by PPP Govts. Where’s the proof disputing the Stabroek News’ 400 executions finding – one-third being Indian Guyanese?

Dead: Lloyd Garraway Dead: Muneshwar Singh

Teen dies, several injured in ECD crash

8 Guyanese named among "Legendary Caribbean Legal Practitioners"

In the early hours of Sunday, a tragic accident on Nabaclis Public Road, East Coast Demerara, resulted in the death of an 18-year-old and left several others seriously injured.

Dead is Ghanesh Mahabal of Lot 1 Belmont, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara.

Those injured are the 28-year-old driver of Belmont, Mahaica (name not provided); Mahendra Ramnarine, 17, of Lot 55 Supply, Mahaica; Mark Thomas, 18, of Lot 45 Supply, Mahaica; and 32-year-old Vickey Seeram of Chelsea Park, Mahaica.

According to received information, the accident occurred around 02:04h when a car, PAC 3435, collided with a light pole along the road.

Reports are that the car was heading east along the northern driving lane of Nabaclis Public Road and while negotiating a right turn, the driver lost control, resulting in a collision with a light pole on the northern parapet.

The vehicle toppled into a drain located on the northern parapet. Due to the impact, the driver and the occupant in the front passenger seat were ejected from the vehicle. The other three occupants in

the back seat were trapped inside the car.

With the help of public-spirited citizens, the motor car was pushed out of the drain and back onto the northern parapet. Emergency services arrived and all five individuals were placed in an ambulance and rushed to Georgetown Public Hospital. Ghanesh Mahabal was, however, pronounced dead on arrival.

The driver and the other occupants are still receiving medical treatment.

(G9)

In the third instalment of its Eminent Caribbean Jurist series, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) Academy of Law has honoured eight Guyanese among 48 outstanding Caribbean lawyers.

They are Professor JOF Haynes, Rex McKay, Ashton Chase, OE; Dr Mohamed Shahabuddeen; Sir Lionel Alfred Luckhoo; Sir Fenton Ramsahoye; Clarence Hughes, and Dr Claude Denbow.

The only ones still living are McKay and Denbow.

Among the awardees are giants of the legal profession representing historical, transitional, and contemporary epochs of law and development in the Region, the Academy said.

The Eminent Caribbean Jurist Awards Series was established by the Academy, the CCJ's educational branch, in 2019 as a way to recognise and honour the contributions made by Caribbean jurists to the advancement of the legal system and society.

The Academy said the legal legends were selected by the CCJ Academyappointed Regional Selection and Advisory Committee, which first met on September 27, 2022.

“Nominations were submitted from Bar Associations, Judiciaries, journalists, the Council for Legal Education and its law schools, other law schools in the Region, professional associations, and former Eminent Caribbean Jurists. One hundred and fifteen (nominations were

received from which 48 were selected having regard to regional and temporal distribution.”

As part of the project, it said a brief profile was prepared for each honouree by specially selected essayists and that the

profiles will be compiled into a publication to memorialise the contribution of these outstanding legal practitioners to the development of law in the Region. The Academy anticipates that the publication will be launched and

available to the public in January 2024. As with the Academy’s previous publications, it is hoped that highlighting the lives and work of these Caribbean legal personalities will inspire the younger generation of practitioners. (G1)

Dead: Ghanesh Mahabal

The car that was involved in the accident

Dr Mohamed Shahabuddeen

Sir Fenton Ramsahoye

JOF Haynes

Rex McKay

Ashton Chase

Sir Lionel Alfred Luckhoo

Dr Claude Denbow

Clarence Hughes

494 traffic violations recorded in a single day

In a resolute display of enforcement, the Traffic Department from various regional Police Divisions collectively recorded a staggering 494 cases on Friday.

Among these cases, 120 were for speeding violations, and 10 drivers were apprehended for driving under the influence (DUI). Police

and individuals congregating at entertainment venues nationwide.

These initiatives are designed to complement ongoing enforcement activities and promote road safety awareness. The comprehensive efforts of the Traffic Department are centred around fostering compliance

and enforcement, authorities aim to create a safer environment for everyone on the roads, emphasising the importance of responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws.

Just a few days ago, the

Mahendra Singh noted that, in an effort to complement the enforcement exercises, all regional Divisions conducted daily empowerment lectures with students at schools, drivers along each route of travel, and even patrons at bars

users. These numbers reflect a decline when compared to the previous week, where an alarming 2247 traffic cases

were recorded within that period. Among these, 652 cases of speeding and 55 cases of driving under the influence were reported. (G9)

have intensified their efforts through sustained education programmes, including lectures held in schools, lectures for drivers, bar proprietors,

with traffic regulations and instilling respect for the road and all categories of road users.

With a focus on education

Guyana Police Force announced that in the past week, 1738 traffic cases were recorded across all regional Police Divisions in Guyana.

Of the total cases, 468 were charged, 264 summons were prepared, and 1006 tickets were issued. Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent

or restaurants to ensure the critical safety tips have a far-reaching effect.

This effort, according to him, is ongoing with the intention of ensuring compliance with the rules of the road based on an improved knowledge base and consideration for all categories of road

Police destroy ganja farm on Essequibo Coast

Anarcotics eradication exercise conducted in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Saturday, resulted in the destruction of several hundred cannabis plants as well as a makeshift campsite.

The exercise was carried out on Saturday afternoon at Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast,

during which Police ranks discovered a plot of land measuring about two acres in length, with about 500 cannabis plants, ranging from 3 inches to 12 inches in height.

There was also one makeshift camp containing kitchen utensils, a quantity of dry ration, one pair of long boots, a bottle of kerosene, a bag of fertiliser, two hoes, two empty jars and a spray can.

No one was seen in the area. Nevertheless, the farm was eradicated and the camp was destroyed by

fire. However, before setting the plants on fire, the officers took samples from the cultivation.

The operation was spearheaded by Regional Police Commander for Division #2, Superintendent K Shivbaran, accompanied by Deputy Commander, DSP Duncan, RDO ASP Murugayya, and other ranks in the Division.

Traffic ranks carrying out enforcement exercises

Govt tenders for $4.6B in hinterland road contracts

The Government, through the Public Works Ministry, has tendered for over $4.6 billion worth of hinterland road contracts spanning several regions, as well as farm to access roads in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

In an invitation for sealed bids, the Ministry requested contractors tender for hinterland roads in Regions One (BarimaWaini); Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Among the contracts that are being tendered in Region One are the rehabilitation and construction of phase one of the Kwebanna to Kumaka road, which is pegged to cost $211.1 million; the rehabilitation and construction of internal roads in Mabaruma ($214.8 million) and the rehabilitation of internal roads in Matthews Ridge ($232.3 million).

Meanwhile, in Region Seven the rehabilitation of phase one of the Bartica Potaro Road will cost $293.5 million; phase two of the rehabilitation of the Dagg Point Main Access Road will cost $160.2 million and phase two of the rehabilitation of the Roxanne Road in Byderabo will cost $108.2 million.

In Region Eight, the roads slated for construction and rehabilitation include the Mahdia Main Access Road ($139.5 million); the rehabilitation

and realignment of the Tiger Hill Road ($61.4 million) and the Konawaruk Road ($101.6 million). Region Eight roads in Mahdia were the subject of controversy back in April, when the Government was forced to terminate two contracts that were behind schedule.

For Region Nine, the roads that will see works being done include roads in South and Deep South ($249.5 million); internal roads in Lethem (Cenotaph Boulevard), which will cost $179.5 million and rehabilitation of village roads in North Rupununi (Aranaputa Valley Village and farm roads), pegged at $122.2 million.

Tenders for farm to access roads have also been issued for the construction of the Parika to Goshen alignment in Region Three, between Parika and Bonasika, which are being done in Lots One and Two. Both lots come up to $250 million each. Bids, according to the Ministry, will be opened on October 10.

In 2023, the Government of Guyana allocated $136.1 billion in the National Budget to upgrade or create new road and bridge networks across the country. This was a notable hike from the $67.9 billion spent in 2022 to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the country.

The Public Works Ministry also received a $33.3 billion supplementary provision from the

National Assembly in August. Subsequently, plans were announced to construct hundreds of new roads with the money in the various regions, including 300 roads along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) and $1 billion worth of infrastructure work in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Making this announcement was Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, when questioned on the $33.3 billion that was requested for and subsequently granted to, his Ministry. Of that amount, $25 billion is earmarked to go towards constructing and rehabilitating community roads.

Edghill informed the National Assembly how many of these roads would be built and in which regions, even answering

Corentyne woman shot to neck

…fiancé in custody

Awoman is now in critical condition at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Georgetown Public Hospital after being shot to her neck.

Thirty-two-yearold Ashmin Mahadeo of Lot 25 D Williamsburg Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), was shot on Sunday.

Regional Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus said the incident occurred at about 07:40h on Sunday.

This publication understands that Mahadeo was discovered with a gunshot wound to her neck and rushed to the Port Mourant

Hospital in an unconscious state. Reports are that the bullet entered from the back of the neck and exited through the jaw. She was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital and remains in a critical state.

Commander Bacchus has since told this publication that someone called 911 and informed Police of an “incident”. He said that ranks then went to the hospital where they found the woman being treated for a gunshot wound. Based on information received, ranks then proceeded to the woman’s residence

where an illegal firearm was found.

The woman’s fiancé, who is an engineer with the region, has since been taken into custody, and according to Commander Bacchus, he is cooperating with investigators. (G4)

questions that were raised by Opposition Members of Parliament about the status of road works in specific regions.

“What we’re asking this additional money for,

is to do an additional 300 roads on the East Coast of Demerara. An additional 100 roads on the East Bank of Demerara. To make another 300 roads in Region Six,” Edghill had said.

“To put in another intervention of another $1 billion worth of capital works in Region Two… and to do that $1.6 billion worth of work…,” Edghill said.

The Minister had also provided a comprehensive comparison of Government’s road building efforts in the year 2020 to date. He had said that this has increased from just over 150 roads, to last year when over 2000 roads were built.

“I can indicate to you that in 2020, we did 151 roads. In 2021 we did 198 roads. In 2022 we did 2251 roads. For 2023, where we are right now, we have 378 contracts that are under execution. And we have a number of other roads at the procurement stage,” the Public Works Minister had said. (G3)

A road in Mahdia for which a contract was terminated earlier this year

Injured: Ashmin Mahadeo

Rose Hall Estate already produced 130 tonnes of sugar

The Rose Hall Sugar Easter in East Canje, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has recommenced grinding after being closed in 2017, by the then coalition Government A Partnership For National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC).

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) while in Opposition had promised that should it be successful at the 2020 elections it would reopen the closed Rose Hall Sugar Estate.

As of Saturday, the estate has produced in excess of 130 tonnes of sugar. This is according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.

“That is another promise that the PPP/Civic Government has fulfilled. But we are having teething problems because when the factory was closed it

was not decommissioned by the previous Government, as a result, we are now seeing problems with many parts in the factory and as it comes up we are trying to rectify it,” Mustapha explained.

He noted that there are leaks in the boiler, which is causing steam to escape.

“We are continuing to fix those but I am very optimistic that in another few days from now everything will be normal and the factory will continuously grind, but as it runs this is expected, that is why we haven’t commissioned it as yet.”

Last month as the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) was preparing to reopen the estate, it had invited harvesters from both the Rose Hall and Albion Sugar Estates to harvest canes at Rose Hall when

ready.

However, the workers took to the street in protest, calling for Government to pay them a severance before they harvest canes at Rose Hall.

The workers who went on strike were those who were transferred from the Rose Hall Estate when it was closed in January 2017.

When the estate was closed, there were some 2500 workers at the Rose Hall Estate, 1181 of whom were retrenched, while the remainder were transferred to Blairmont and Albion Estates.

GuySuCo subsequently issued a statement saying that the workers were no longer required to go to Rose Hall and work.

According to Mustapha, harvesters from the Albion Estate are harvesting canes

for the Rose Hall Estate.

“Usually at Rose Hall, Albion and Blairmont, whenever you have excessive cane you use harvesters from other estates to

harvest the cane but and they are entitled for certain payments and those payments are being made to the harvesters,” Mustapha said while noting that apart

from the harvesters from Albion, harvesters who were employed by the Rose Hall Estate are also in the fields harvesting the canes. (G4)

St Ignatius Secondary to benefit from new building, teacher training

The Government’s education policy of creating a balanced and equitable opportunity to access learning is being praised by the Head Teacher of St Ignatius Secondary School in Region Nine, Kenrick Lewis.

Lewis expressed his gratitude for various interventions that the Education Ministry has since implemented in his school and all schools in Region Nine.

Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI) in a re-

cent interview in the region, Lewis stated that one of the interventions is a building that is currently being constructed in the school’s compound.

This, he described, as a “timely intervention” as it will ease the congestion in

the classrooms.

“Within the shortest time when completed, it will house eight classrooms and that will definitely bring some relief to some crowded areas that we have. So, this building that is being constructed is indeed a plus for the Ministry and a plus for us the teachers and students,” expressed the Head Teacher.

According to Lewis, the school currently accommodates 1070 students from the region.

Additionally, in keeping in tandem with Minister of Education Priya Manickchand’s vision of ensuring that every child acquires some sort of technical or vocational skill before leaving high school, Lewis said that facilities are also being constructed to have these students undergo various training.

“Buildings are also being constructed at the back of the school which will be the Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ) building. These buildings are specifically for skilled training,” Lewis stated.

He also expressed gratitude to the Ministry for

equipping teachers with the knowledge of advanced training so that they can diversify the type of subjects and training in the region.

The school is also benefitting from a well-furnished and modern computer lab.

The computers are there

sively pushing to modernise schools across the country so that both students and teachers can learn and teach comfortably.

Over the past month, Minister Manickchand commissioned newly constructed blocks at the East Ruimveldt Secondary School, The Bishops’ High

to help the students carry out research for their exams, preparing them for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC).

The Government through the Education Ministry has been aggres-

School, St Rose’s High School and Queen’s College.

These blocks, which cost millions of dollars, are to accommodate the students from each school in a manner that is substantial to their academic lives.

Rose Hall Sugar Estate in East Canje, Berbice, Region Six

The building that will soon house eight classrooms

Another building being constructed at the school

President Dr Irfaan Ali and First Lady Arya Ali joined with parents at School of the Nations to participate in their son Zayd’s day of sport (President Dr Irfaan Ali’s social media photos)

“Heavy criminal fines” in Condominium Act protect buyers

…AG Chamber touts benefits of condos against rentals

Condos are a new concept to Guyana’s developing landscape, but the recent passage of a modern Condominium Bill in the National Assembly has introduced a slew of protections for buyers including fines for developers who violate provisions of the new law.

This was explained by officials from the Attorney General Chamber and Legal Affairs Ministry during the recent episode of “Simplifying the Law” – a programme designed to enlighten citizens about the various pieces of legislations that are being or have already been enacted.

Deputy Solicitor General Deborah Kumar, and State Counsel at the AG Chamber, Pierre Squires, appeared on the programme to talk about the Condominium Bill that was passed in the National Assembly back in May 2022. The new law seeks to ensure a structured and clear policy framework to guide the ownership and management of town houses and condominiums.

They explained the process that goes behind the development of a condominium and the various provisions outlined in it to ensure the processes are fast-tracked and not lagging at the various State agencies as well as protections for potential buyers.

According to Kumar, Section 53 of Condominium Act provides assurance for buyers in that when mon -

ies are paid over to the developer, called ‘the corporation’, it must be held in trust in a separate bank account until the purchaser gets possession of the unit being bought.

This, the Deputy Solicitor General explained, is kind of a restriction on where this money will go, with the buyer having the power to release the funds and when to do so.

She added that Section 7 of Act is also restrictive in that it states whilst the application for a condominium complex is pending, which takes a maximum of three months, the developer cannot accept any money for the purchase of units. This can only be done when approval is obtained.

“So, you cannot do that until there is approval by the Minister of Housing and until there is registration of the condominium complex,” Kumar noted.

Criminal fine

Potential buyers usually pay upfront for their condos as construction starts. The money would effectively go towards the building of the purchaser’s unit.

However, State Counsel Squires pointed out that when that money is handed over to the developer, there are penalties in the new legislation if the funds are misused.

“If there is a violation of the money held on trust

for the purchase of this condominium by the corporation, they can be subjected to a heavy criminal fine. Persons overseas who might be interested in buying units, they might be a bit reluctant to purchase because they’re not sure who this person is…”

“There is a criminal fine for the misappropriation of the money held on trust and it would vary but there are fines outlined all in the legislation. And there are penalties, for example, for repairs and so many other things outlined in the Act,” the State Counsel noted.

The Condominium Act further caters for various options to purchase units, that is, cash and on mortgage.

“Essentially, what is fundamental about

Section 11 is two-fold, it would allow for clean titles of ownership to be issued and it would also allow a purchaser to use the same condominium unit… as collateral for a loan to buy… This legislation has catered for the demands in housing and cured deficiencies of persons going to the commercial banks, where they can now do so freely and borrow against the unit using the transport or the Certificate of Title as their proof of ownership and as a collateral for mortgage and I believe that is most enticing,” the Deputy Solicitor General noted.

However, in addition to protection for buyers every step of the way, the

Condominium Act also contains comprehensive provisions for developers that would ensure the project takes off in a timely manner. These include strict timelines for the application and registration processes.

According to State Counsel Squires, during the former process, the Minister of Housing, who is responsible for handling the application, has to give reasons in writing for rejecting and/or approving the proposal so that the developer can know the grounds for the decision.

The legislation stipulates a three-month timeline for the Minister to deal with the application, that is, to approve, deny or

recommend amendments to the declaration and description instruments submitted by the developer. This is an improvement from the six months timeline in the old legislation. If approval is given, then there is another fourweek deadline in place for the relevant registration process.

“So, in total, you can have approval [for the development of a condominium] within four months,” Kumar stated.

Meanwhile, State Counsel Squires went on to highlight the advantages of opting to buy a condo as opposed to renting an apartment – though both may seem similar. The biggest benefit, he underscored, is ownership.

“This is your unit. You will have a Transport or a Certificate of Title as the owning document… So, it’s easier for you to say you own this property as opposed a lease or rental agreement in which your name is there on an agreement and you have exclusive possession to the property but it’s not as though you own it. That’s one of the major advantages of owning a condominium,” he stressed.

Added to these are the many benefits that comes with condominium complexes such as shared amenities like pool, gyms and other open spaces. (G8)

Suspect rearrested for Rose Hall Town double murder

Police in Berbice have rearrested a suspect as the probe continues into the brutal murder of 31-year-old Melissa Arokium and her eight-yearold son Anthony Arokium, whose bodies were discovered in their home at Rose Hall Town, Berbice, on August 23.

On Sunday, Police rearrested one of four suspects who were initially taken into custody when the probe commenced more than five weeks ago.

The rearrest suspect, who is a relative of the deceased, comes after family members had reported that he had broken into the house where the two bodies were found after he was initially released from custody.

It was reported that the woman’s body was found lying in a pool of blood on the floor, while the child was on his bed and was also in a pool of blood. His body had what appeared to be at least one stab wound to the back of his neck, while his mother’s body appeared to have chop

wounds to the neck, shoulder and chest.

The victim had operated a small grocery shop at her home. She shared the building with her brother, who is a cane harvester, but they lived in separate apartments.

Post-mortem examinations performed on the

bodies by Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan determined that the woman died as a result of shock and haemorrhage due to incised wounds to the neck, while the cause of death of her son was given as shock and haemorrhage due to multiple incised wounds.

(L-R) Deputy Solicitor General Deborah Kumar and State Counsel at the AG Chamber Pierre Squires in conversation with host of “Simplifying the Law”, Richard Bhainie

Melissa Arokium and her eight-year-old son Anthony Arokium

$16M model farm opens at Fort Wellington

As part of the Sustainable Agricultural Development Programme (SADP) a new model farm was on Saturday commissioned at Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

The $16.3 million facility was financed by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) in support of the Agriculture Ministry’s technology transfer programme that is currently being implemented.

It will cater for research and demonstrations to farmers.

The research and demonstration farm sits on one acre of land and will assist with the improvement of the Ministry’s research and extension system and includes $1.5 million in equipment.

The model farm will cater for cash crop and live-

production, reducing environmental impact, reducing inequality and poverty and produce healthy food.

“The research and demonstration farms address these challenges.

other sources of information on new and innovative agricultural practices, as well as farm management best technique,” Salazar explained.

She noted that support for the research and demonstration farms is complementary to other types of support provided by the SADP which include grants for improved technology adoption and farmer training.

It is expected that over 3000 farmers will benefit from the new facility.

New approaches needed

He noted that many farmers continue to farm the same way their fore parents did. This practice, he said, must be changed and new approaches to farming adapted if farmers want so

change the way our extension services officers have been working across this country. We are now giving them the necessary skills, instruments and equipment so that they can have real-time interventions,” the

ment in the various schools and have students come here to have their practical sessions. These farms that we are building across the country are to ensure that we develop our agriculture sector,” Mustapha added.

stock farmers, as well as nearby schools in Region Five. About forty extension officers are attached to it.

IDB Resident Representative in Guyana, Lorena Solorzano Salazar, speaking at the launching ceremony on Saturday said for the IDB, a modern and effective research and extension service is key for the transformation and development of the agricultural sector.

“This will contribute to food security and play a role in addressing the four major challenges the Bank has identified for the agricultural sector.”

She identified the challenges as being increasing

They are a key link between agricultural research and farmers, especially small

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha underscored the importance of farmers utilising best practices. He said the programme is a part of the Government’s commitment to foster innovation, resilience and sustainability within the agriculture sector.

and medium sized producers that may not have access to

realise increased production while at the same time focusing on cost reduction, efficiency and sustainability.

“Farms like this are being established across the country to help to achieve best practices and have better innovation and better skills so that you can implement them in your farm holdings.”

He noted that his Ministry has been revamping the extension services that it has been provided to farmers across the country.

“We recognise that many of our extension officers have to be more responsive to the needs of the farmers; many of them sometimes are not meeting the farmers and not working with them. So, we have been working with international organisations like IICA (Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture), the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation) and the IDB (Inter-American Development Bank) to help us to help us to revamp and

Agriculture Minister explained.

The farm will have shade houses to show farmers how to utilise best practices, cattle and small ruminants as well as birds. The farm also

He noted that there is a need to provide planting material for farmers as Government is seeking to have farmers involved in large-scale production.

“We will be building a

has a storage room, features plots of different types of grass to feed animals and will also facilitate training programmes for farmers.

“But this is not all for the farmers, we are working very closely with the Ministry of Education and we are working to resuscitate the agriculture depart-

tissue culture lab so that we can produce billions of planting material, different variety of planting materials and they will be available to the farmers of our country.”

According to Mustapha, funding for the tissue culture lab has already been acquired. (G4)

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and IDB Resident Representative in Guyana, Lorena Solorzano Salazar

A section of the gathering at the launching of the model farm

“Government will continue to work with you” – PM to Indigenous community

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d)

Mark Phillips has expressed the Government's commitment to the comprehensive advancement of Amerindians, while highlighting their rich heritage as Guyana's first culture, as well as their contributions to agriculture, environmental protection and conservation.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the Kuru Kururu Amerindian Heritage Day celebrations, organised by the Drepaul's Amerindian Heritage Committee on Saturday at the Kuru Kururu President's Youth Choice Ground.

He affirmed that the Government is focused on fostering development for all Guyanese, including

essary interventions, plans and programmes to bring development to the people of our Amerindian communities wherever they are located.”

Prime Minister Phillips also assured residents of the Government's ongoing efforts towards strengthening the Indigenous communities while improving its infrastructure, education and other developmental areas with the objective of improving lives and livelihoods in all communities where Amerindians reside.

focused on bringing development to your communities."

lotment going to Indigenous communities for various development purposes.

and pledged ongoing engagement and collaboration.

Amerindians.

To this end, he said:

“Our Government will continue to make all these nec-

He further emphasised the Government's dedication to community development, stating, “You have a Government that is caring, and a Government that is

In regards to the Government's efforts aimed at assisting Amerindian communities, Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the establishment of a $2.9B Amerindian Development Fund designated for training and community growth. Additionally, he touched upon the $750M agreement for the sale of carbon credits, with an annual 15% al-

Further, he spoke of the extension of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hubs in over 200 communities, as well as supplying 30,000 eco-conscious energy solutions like residential solar systems to off-grid Amerindian communities.

Prime Minister Phillips then reiterated Government's unwavering support for all Guyanese

“I want you to rest assured that as a Government, we will continue to work with you, we will continue to work with all the people of Guyana, because we believe in development for all the people of Guyana.”

The Prime Minister, who was accompanied by his wife, Mignon BowenPhillips, also interacted with scores of residents during the event.

Miss Region 9 Amerindian Heritage 2023 crowned

A21-year-old resident of St Ignatius Village in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), Noreen Alfred, has been crowned Miss Region 9 Amerindian Heritage 2023.

Alfred’s platform was, "Empowerment of Indigenous Youths," and according to a social media post by Government Member of Parliament for the region, Alister Charlie, she embodies her commitment to uplifting the younger generation of Indigenous individuals, adding that her journey to this prestigious title is a testament to her dedication and passion for making a difference in her community.

From her earliest years in nursery school, the young woman displayed a steadfast commitment to academic excellence. She earned a hinterland scholarship through the Amerindian Affairs Ministry and embarked on the path of the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).

Following her completion of CAPE, Alfred returned to her region and was employed as a Customer Sales Representative at the

Newly-crowned Miss Region 9 Amerindian Heritage 2023 Queen

Lethem Power Company Incorporated. Presently, Noreen is a recipient of the GOAL scholarship programme, and is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and Project Management. She also actively engages with various voluntary organisations, notably the Civil Defence Commission and the Guyana Red Cross

Society, where her dedication shines through her involvement in community initiatives and disaster relief efforts. She has also acquired certifications in areas such as Basic Solar PV Training, Information Technology, and Building Construction through programmes offered by the Board of Industrial Training.

UN vote on foreign police mission to Haiti set for Monday

The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on Monday to approve the deployment of foreign police to Haiti and authorize the use of force to help the Caribbean country fight violent gangs that have largely overrun the capital Port-au-Prince.

A U.S.-drafted resolution, seen by Reuters, would also expand a U.N. arms embargo that currently applies only to designated individuals to include all gangs, which China wanted.

Haitian officials have said guns used by gangs are believed to be mostly imported from the United States.

Haiti asked nearly a year ago for international help

and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the 15-member council last month that a "robust use of force" by a multinational police deployment and the use of military assets was needed to restore law and order in Haiti and disarm gangs.

It was not immediately clear how China and Russiawhich are veto powers along with the United States, France and Britain - would vote on the U.S.-drafted resolution. Diplomats said they are wary of authorizing the blanket use of force. China

10 Cuban migrants killed in Mexico truck accident, 17 injured

At least 10 Cuban migrants died and 17 others were seriously injured when a cargo truck ferrying them had an accident in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas, Mexico's migration institute said on Sunday.

The accident took place along the Pacific coast stretch of the PijijiapanTonalá highway in Chiapas, a common route taken by migrants who cross into Mexico from Guatemala on their way north towards the United States.

The driver of the Ford truck, which is not designed to carry so many people, fled the scene of the accident, the National Migration Institute (INM) said in a statement.

"According to the first reports, the driver was speeding, lost control of the unit and overturned," the INM added.

Images shared by au-

thorities showed a truck without number plates turned on its side in a ditch by the highway, with half of the wooden bed and the tall side panels on its right side torn off.

The 17 injured people were taken to hospitals and are being monitored, INM said. One of the dead migrants was a child.

Road accidents involving

wanted the resolution to state that Haiti had to notify the Security Council of the countries taking part in the mission before U.N. authorization would take effect.

The U.S. amended the draft text to say that U.N. authorization would be given to countries that notified Secretary-General Antonio Guterres of their participation in the mission.

A Security Council resolution needs nine votes in favor and no vetoes to be adopted.

The response to Haiti's request for help was delayed due to a struggle to find a country willing to lead a security assistance mission.

Kenya stepped forward in July with a pledge of 1,000 police. The Bahamas then committed 150 people, while Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda are also willing to help.

Guterres has urged countries, particularly in the Americas, "to continue to build on this new momentum."

Countries have been cautious of supporting the unelected administration of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has said fair elections cannot be held with the current insecurity. Haiti has been without any elected representatives since January.

The security assistance

mission, while approved by the U.N. Security Council, would not be a United Nations operation.

U.N. peacekeepers were deployed to Haiti in 2004 after a rebellion led to the ouster and exile of then-President Jean-Bertrand Aristide. Peacekeeping troops left in 2017 and were replaced by U.N. police, who left in 2019.

Haitians are wary of an armed U.N. presence. The Caribbean country was free of cholera until 2010, when U.N. peacekeepers dumped infected sewage into a river. More than 9,000 people died of the disease, and some 800,000 fell ill. (Reuters)

Canada to host summit with Caricom leaders

Canada will host the summit of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa next month, informed sources have said.

migrants are not uncommon in Mexico, where many people crossing the country to the United States travel in unauthorized and poorly maintained vehicles.

In December 2021, at least 54 people believed to be of mostly Central American descent were killed when the truck they were in flipped over in Chiapas. (Reuters)

Jamaican cops on guard duty during alleged rapist’s escape removed from frontline duty

The Police High Command has revealed that the two officers on guard duty at the St Ann’s Bay Hospital where alleged rapist Troy Ellis escaped custody on Sunday morning, have been removed from frontline duty with immediate effect.

In a release on Sunday, the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s corporate communications unit said a full report on the incident is expected to be submitted to the Commissioner of police by the end of day.

The circumstances of Ellis’ escape are now the subject of a major investigation by the Inspectorate and Professional Standards Oversight Bureau.

A manhunt was launched for Ellis after he escaped po-

lice custody while undergoing treatment at the St Ann’s Bay Hospital.

Ellis is facing rape and murder charges following the killing of 8-year-old Talia Thompson.

Young Talia was allegedly raped and murdered on Saturday, September 23 by

the man, who is said to be a close family friend.

He was taken to hospital after reportedly shooting himself and inflicting several stab wounds to his body in an attempted suicide. In the meantime, the police are asking residents in the immediate environs of the hospital or anyone with information about the whereabouts of this escapee, to report any suspicious activity to the police at 119, to Crime Stop at 311 or to the NIB Tip Line at 811. They also warned that residents should expect to see a heavy police presence in the space and are being asked to cooperate with the authorities.

Persons are reminded that harbouring a felon is a crime.

(Jamaica Observer)

The sources told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that the two-day summit will be held on October 18-19 and that both sides are engaged in the planning stages.

The Antigua and Barbuda government following its weekly Cabinet meeting on Thursday, said in a statement that Prime Minister Gaston Browne had “reported” that “a CARICOM/Canada Summit will take place next month.

“Closer relations with Canada are being developed, especially after the Canadians moved to institute a visa requirement for all persons visiting the country (with a 1,000-mile border with the USA),” the statement noted.

In June this year, the communique issued following the meeting between CARICOM foreign ministers and their Canadian counterpart, noted that they had “reaffirmed the enduring value of the deep and dynamic partnership between Canada and CARICOM, and strengthened their commitment to sustainability, resilience, climate action, access to finance, regional security, and shared values”.

The communique noted that in reviewing concrete progress on the CanadaCARICOM Roadmap for Action, Ministers noted results in key areas such as climate resilience, trade, inclusive governance, and

multilateral engagement.

In noted that in February this year, Prime Minister Trudeau said Canada is now implementing CAD$44.8 million in new initiatives to support CARICOM in addressing the climate crisis, and the Canada-CARICOM Expert Deployment Mechanism completed 48 capacity building initiatives in 2022 alone.

The upcoming summit will most likely discuss the ongoing political and socio-economic situation in Haiti.

The foreign ministers had acknowledged that the ongoing political and

security crisis in Haiti is a humanitarian challenge and de-stabilising influence in the region, and that it must be addressed through coordinated international action and Haitian-led solutions.

The meeting also agreed to continue working collaboratively towards the establishment of a permanent mechanism to deepen the strategic partnership between Canada and CARICOM, building on the CanadaCARICOM Roadmap for Action, and addressing the ongoing political and security crisis in Haiti. (CMC)

Alleged rapist Troy Ellis

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Emergency personnel work at the scene where several Cuban migrants died after a truck accident in Pijijiapan, Chiapas, Mexico October 1, 2023, in this screen grabs taken from a handout video

Regional Sir Ronald Sanders assumes historic 3rd term presidency of OAS

Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the Organisation of American States (OAS), has created history by assuming the presidency of the OAS Permanent Council for an unprecedented third term.

This remarkable achievement marks another significant ‘first’ for Antigua and Barbuda since the OAS expanded its membership 61 years ago.

Sir Ronald’s third official term commenced on October 1. He has already demonstrated his leadership and commitment by serving as President on various critical occasions, including acting as President over five sessions in the past two weeks alone.

His previous official tenures as President in 2016 and 2021 saw him steering the Council’s response to political crises in nations like Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. As a pivotal figure within the organisation, Sir Ronald has been instrumental in drafting, negotiating, and endorsing resolutions, declarations, and

statements that resonate with countries across the hemisphere.

Ambassador Sanders has consistently voiced significant issues pertaining to the Caribbean, taking a strong stance on matters like climate change, racism, discrimination, reparations for slavery, women’s rights, and the urgent call for social justice and equity.

Foreign Minister Chet Greene welcomed the news on behalf of the Government.

“Ambassador Sanders’ record-setting leadership at the OAS amidst a plethora of challenges facing the nations of our hemisphere un-

US says Guatemala Ministry interfering in transition of power

The US State Department said on Sunday it was "gravely concerned" that Guatemala's Public Ministry was trying to undermine the transfer of power to President-elect Bernardo Arevalo, who recorded a landslide victory in August.

The Ministry, which functions similar to the Attorney General in other countries, raided the Supreme Electoral Tribunal on Friday for at least 20 hours to seize boxes holding tabulations from general election voting.

Guatemalan President-elect Bernardo Arevalo gestures on the day he delivers a speech to supporters during a protest outside the Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ), after he temporarily suspended his participation in the government transition following a raid on electoral facilities by the top prosecutor's office, in Guatemala City, Guatemala, September 18, 2023 (Reuters/Luis Echeverria photo)

equivocally demonstrates that a country’s size is no barrier to its ability to lead effectively, provided it is armed with knowledge and experience,” Minister Greene said.

Ambassador Sanders said his third presidency’s agenda would prominently feature critical issues like climate change; guns, gangs and violence; and access to concessional financing for development. He also aims to improve the inter-American system and anticipates addressing the ongoing situations in Haiti, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Brazil's Lula leaves hospital after hip surgery

Brazilian President Luiz

Inácio Lula da Silva

left hospital on Sunday two days after hip surgery and will spend three weeks recovering at the Alvorada presidential residence, his office and doctors said.

Lula underwent surgery at the Sirio-Libanes Hospital on Friday for arthrosis of the right hip caused by the extremely painful wear and tear of the cartilage on the head of the femur.

His doctors had expected him to remain in the hospital

until Tuesday, but he began to walk on Saturday in physiotherapy sessions. The hospital reported he had walked up and down stairs on Sunday.

The orthopaedic surgeon who did the surgery, Giancarlo Poles Ello, has told him to avoid standing for too long and he would need to use a walker in the first weeks because the procedure affects the patients' balance.

The arthroplasty, carried out under general anaesthetic, involved removing the head of the femur to implant a pros-

thesis.

Lula has said he has been in constant pain for more than a year, though this has not stopped him from travelling to dozens of countries since he took office in January.

Lula will only resume presidential trips abroad at the end of November, when he plans to travel to the United Arab Emirates to attend the COP28 global climate meeting.

For the next three weeks, he will govern from the Alvorada Palace. (Reuters)

Peruvian annual inflation eases to lowest level in more than 2 years

Annual inflation in Peru decelerated to 5.04 per cent in September to hit its lowest level in more than two years, according to official figures published on Sunday, though consumer prices remained some way above the central bank's target rate.

Data from national statistics agency INEI showed the key index based on the metropolitan region of Lima slowed to its lowest level since August 2021, when it stood at 4.95 per cent.

On a month-to-month basis, the Lima Consumer

Price Index, Peru's inflation benchmark, inched up 0.02 per cent in September, well below the 0.38 per cent increase in August.

The figures are a boost to Peru's bid to wrestle inflation back to the central bank's official target of two per cent, plus or minus one percentage point.

The monetary authority kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged in August at 7.75 per cent for the seventh month in a row after an aggressive series of hikes started in August 2021, part of its efforts to tame high consumer prices.

"The United States is gravely concerned with continued efforts to undermine Guatemala's peaceful transition of power to Presidentelect Arevalo," Matthew Miller, a State Department spokesperson, said in a statement.

The US is imposing visa restrictions on current and former members of Congress, justice officials and anyone else who undermines democracy, the statement added.

Guatemala's Government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Public Ministry said that it "acts in all cases with objectivity and impartiality to ensure strict compliance with the law".

Arevalo, a 64-year-old former diplomat and congressman, is due to take office in January. He has repeatedly complained of a "coup d'état" and persecution by prosecutors against him and his party, Movimiento Semilla.

"There is no doubt that these actions ... lead to the annulment of the electoral result and the destruction of the democratic regime,"

Arevalo said Saturday in a public video.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva also on Sunday expressed concern about actions by the Public Prosecutor's Office.

"These events are the latest in a long list of very worrying actions taken in recent weeks, which – taken together – appear designed to undermine the integrity of the electoral process and undermine the rule of law in general," High Commissioner Volker Türk said in a statement. (Reuters)

Woman stabs, kills Tobago woman during quarrel

The murder of a Tobago woman on Saturday night has pushed the island's total to 10 for 2023, matching last year's total.

Canaan Feeder Road resident Rae Ann Henry, also known as Lucy, is the latest murder victim.

According to Police reports, shortly after 21:00h on Saturday evening, 39-yearold Henry had an altercation with another woman before she was stabbed several times. She was taken to the Scarborough General Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Crime analyst and advisor to the chief secretary

Anselm Richards described the incident as unfortunate as he warned against a violent culture emerging.

He told Newsday, “Very unfortunate for a small island, an island that is defined by close-knit communities, an island of close-knit families where everybody knows everybody. So when you have these kinds of fatal developments, it affects the entire community. As we say – all ah we is one family.”

He said the incident spoke to a national issue, as a solution to crime must be found. He made note of the invitation by the Prime Minister and Chairman

of the National Security Council to the Opposition Leader for a discussion to address crime.

“I don’t know if he would engage in a similar exercise with the Tobago House of Assembly. So that is something we need to call out the Prime Minister on almost immediately. Because whilst we are not recording the numbers in terms of absolute numbers of over 400 murders, 10 murders in a population of 60,000-65,000, when you do the per-capita crime ratio, it would be higher than the 400 in a population of 1.3 million.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

INEI said in a statement that inflation in September was driven by price rises in transportation, restaurants and hotels, and miscellaneous goods and services, which rose 0.56 per cent, 0.43 per cent and 0.32 per cent, respectively.

The world's second-largest copper producer has been grappling with poor weather, lower private investment in mining and anti-Government protests staged earlier this year, which has led the Government to slash its forecasts for economic growth. (Reuters)

Mexican church roof collapses, killing 5; rescuers search for survivors

Achurch roof in northern Mexico collapsed during Sunday mass killing at least five people and injuring several others, local authorities and media said, with rescuers digging through the rubble searching for any survivors.

Footage on social media showed the moment the church roof caved in, puffs of grey smoke billowing into the air, followed by the toppling of yellow brick outer walls.

The civil protection body for Tamaulipas state, which borders Texas, published photos of the mangled remains of the church in Ciudad Madero and said its workers were looking for survivors.

Mexico's Reforma newspaper said five people were killed in the accident, including a child, citing Adrian Oseguera, Mayor of Ciudad Madero, a city on the Gulf coast near the port of Tampico.

Bishop Jose Armando

Alvarez from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tampico said the church roof crumbled as worshippers were receiving communion and asked others to pray for the survivors. "In this moment the necessary work is being carried out to pull out the people who are still under the rumble," Bishop Armando said in a recorded message shared on social media.

(Reuters)

Sir Ronald Sanders

Around The World OIL NEWS

Zelenskiy says nothing will weaken Kyiv's resolve against Russia

Big Oil, heavy industry discuss emission curbs ahead of COP28

Major oil and gas company chiefs held discussions with heavy industry bosses on Sunday in the United Arab Emirates in an effort to agree a firm commitment to reduce carbon emissions ahead of a United Nations climate summit next month.

The COP28 summit is scheduled to take place in Dubai between Nov 30 and Dec 12.

It is seen as a crucial opportunity for governments to accelerate action to limit global warming with reports so far showing countries are off track to meet promises to limit the rise in global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

"What we have done today is something quite unprecedented in the COP process, to bring together both the demand and supply side in terms of emissions," Adnan Amin, COP28 Chief Executive Officer, told Reuters.

Amin said the aim was to get major industry players to make decarbonisation commitments that would help limit global warming.

"We are hoping to reach this agreement before COP28 and then to align on how best this will be positioned at the COP."

The gathering brought together CEOs from more than 50 companies from the oil and gas sector - the supply side - and the aluminium, steel and cement industries - the energy demand side.

The meeting, convened by COP28 President Sultan al-Jaber, was attended by US Climate Envoy John Kerry and tackled issues such as commercialising hydrogen, scaling up carbon capture technologies, methane elimination and increasing renewable energy, a statement by COP28 said.

The United Arab Emirates' president of the conference, Jaber, has said the oil and gas industry needs to be part of the conversation on climate change. He has urged the energy industry to achieve netzero emissions by or before 2050 and to accelerate an industry-wide commitment to reach near-zero methane emissions by 2030.

The inclusion of oil and gas representatives is a far cry from the 2021 UN climate change summit in Scotland, where energy companies complained they were shut out of the event.

Ahead of COP28, countries remain divided between those demanding a deal to phase out planet-warming fossil fuels and nations insisting on preserving a role for coal, oil and natural gas.

"If the oil and gas industry signs up to decarbonisation agreements and methane abatement that is a huge contribution to the debate," Amin said.

"It will be the first COP that we can measure the carbon that we are taking off the table."

Jaber, who is also head of UAE state oil giant ADNOC, was a controversial pick to lead the climate summit because his country is an OPEC member and a major oil exporter. (Reuters)

Nightclub fire kills at least 13 in Murcia in Spain

At least 13 people have been killed in a fire in a nightclub in Murcia in southeast Spain, emergency services said on Sunday, adding that rescuers were still searching for people unaccounted for after the blaze.

Outside the club, young people hugged, looking shocked as they waited for information after the fire that broke out in the early hours in Atalayas, on the outskirts of the city.

"I think we left 30 seconds to 1 minute before the alarms went off and all the lights went out (and) the screams saying there was a fire," one survivor, who was not identified, said.

"Five family members and two friends are missing."

Spanish media reported that several of the dead were from one group that was celebrating a birthday.

Diego Seral, of Spain's

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a speech released on Sunday that nothing would weaken his country's fight against Russia, a day after the US Congress passed a stopgap funding Bill that omitted aid to Ukraine.

Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said separately he had received reassurances about further military assistance in a telephone call with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin.

"Secretary Austin assured me," he wrote in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, using flags in place of country names, that US support to Ukraine "will continue" and that Ukrainian "warriors will continue to have a strong back-up on the battlefield."

A Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Kyiv was working with its American partners to ensure a new budget decision would include funds for the country, and that US support was intact.

Zelenskiy, in a recorded speech marking the Defenders Day holiday, did not address the vote in Congress directly, but reiterated his determination to fight to victory.

No one could "shut down" Ukraine's stability, endurance, strength and courage, he said, echoing a Ukrainian verb often used to refer to power outages caused by Russian attacks.

He added that Ukraine would only stop resisting and fighting on the day of victory. "As we draw closer to it every day, we say, 'We will fight for as long as it takes.'"

US President Joe Biden said on Sunday that Republicans had pledged to provide Ukraine aid through a separate vote and US support could not be interrupted "under any circumstances."

Foreign Ministry

spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko also sought to reassure Ukrainians about future US support in comments on Facebook, stressing that previously approved funds would be unaffected. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Grizzly bear attack in Canada's Banff National Park leaves 2 dead

Two people were found dead in a grizzly bear attack in Alberta's Banff National Park, Parks Canada said in a statement.

Parks Canada in a statement Saturday night said it had received an alert late Friday from a GPS device

indicating a bear attack originating from within Banff National Park, in the Red Deer River Valley west of Ya Ha Tinda Ranch.

Weather conditions at the time did not allow for helicopter use, leading the response team to travel by ground through the night to

Attackers set off bomb at Turkish Government building, both die

National Police, told reporters the dead were found in the Fonda Milagros nightclub, one of three adjoining clubs, which had sustained the majority of fire damage, including the collapse of its roof, he added.

The collapse was making it difficult to locate victims, and it was difficult to pinpoint yet where exactly the fire started, he said.

Police investigators have not yet been able to access the site due to the high temperatures and danger of collapse.

The identification of the bodies would take time, Seral said. The emergency services gave the death toll, which has risen steadily throughout the day, as 13. The cause of the blaze is being investigated.

Earlier, Murcia's Mayor Jose Ballesta told reporters seven bodies had been found in the same area of the first floor, where the fire broke out.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Two attackers detonated a bomb in front of Turkish Government buildings in Ankara on Sunday, leaving both of them dead and two Police officers wounded, and a Kurdish militant group claimed responsibility for the attack.

Authorities called it the first terrorist attack in the capital in years.

CCTV footage obtained by Reuters showed a vehicle pulling up to the Interior Ministry's main gate and one of its occupants quickly walking toward the building before being engulfed in an explosion, while the other remains on the street.

The blast killed one of the attackers and authorities "neutralised", or killed, the other, the Interior Minister said of the incident that rattled a central district that is home to ministerial buildings and nearby Parliament.

In a speech at the opening of a new parliamentary session hours later,

President Tayyip Erdogan called the morning attack "the latest attempt" to inflict terror on Turks.

"Those who threaten the peace and security of citizens have not achieved their goals and never will," he said.

The ANF News website, which is close to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militant group, said a group called the 'Immortals Battalion' had carried out the attack, citing a PKK statement.

The statement described the bombing as a 'suicide attack' planned to coincide with the opening of Parliament and carried out by "a team of ours linked to our Immortals Battalion".

The PKK is designated as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the United States and the European Union. It launched an insurgency in southeast Turkey in 1984 and more than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

the location, it said.

The response team arrived on-site overnight where they discovered two deceased individuals. The team later euthanised the bear after it displayed aggressive behaviour, the agency said.

An area closure around

Red Deer and Panther valleys has been implemented and will remain in place until further notice, Parks Canada said.

Banff National Park, which attracts more than four million tourists every year, is home to both grizzly and black bears. (Reuters)

Hardline Republicans seek to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy

Ahardline Republican says he will seek to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy this week, after he pushed through a last-minute spending Bill with support from the Opposition Democrats.

McCarthy submitted the Bill - aimed at averting a Government shutdown - in defiance of the right of his party.

They had already vowed to topple him if he tried to overcome their opposition with Democratic support.

Hardline Republicans in both houses of Congress voted against the motion.

Republicans control the House of Representatives, with Democrats enjoying a wafer-thin majority in the Senate.

On Sunday, Rep Matt Gaetz vowed to oust McCarthy, telling the CNN that House Republicans needed "trustworthy" leadership.

The Florida Congressman, who is among the party's most right-wing members and a keen ally of former President

Donald Trump, has been threatening to force a vote on McCarthy's future for weeks.

Along with other hardright Republicans in the so-called Freedom Caucus, Gaetz refused to back successive budgets proposed by McCarthy, insisting on heavy spending cuts and an end to new military aid to Ukraine.

The hard-right faction said any attempt to pass a spending bill by relying on Democratic votes would cross a red-line which would prompt an attempt to remove the Speaker from his leadership position.

But in a dramatic turnaround on Saturday afternoon, McCarthy decided to put to a vote the temporary funding measure that would keep the Government open until November 17. It contains funding for natural disasters but makes no major concessions on spending levels - a key demand of the Republicans controlling the lower house. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visits the Memory Wall of Fallen Defenders of Ukraine, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, during Defenders of Ukraine Day commemoration in Kyiv, Ukraine October 1, 2023

(March 21-April 19)

DAILY

Expand your interests to include activities or reunions that can open doors to new adventures. Use your skills to make things happen, and you’ll leave a lasting impression.

Put more thought into updating and using your skills uniquely to get ahead. It’s time to position yourself for success. Don’t let temptation stop you from putting your energy where it counts.

(April 20-May 20)

Keep your thoughts to yourself and your eye on what’s happening around you. An energetic approach will keep you out of trouble. A change you make at home will add to your peace of mind.

(May 21-June 20)

If you show everyone how skilled you are, you’ll gain support. Stay calm if someone tries to dictate your next move. An investment looks promising. Speak out to gain interest.

(June 21-July 22)

Be mindful of others, but don’t let them dominate you. If you go about your business quietly, you’ll avoid bossy people who think they know what’s best for you. Speak up.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Consider the possibilities and follow your plans. A change will help you reach your goal and provide new and exciting opportunities. Refuse to let anyone interfere with your projects.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Tidy up loose ends, make your money work for you, consider your options and leave nothing to chance. Don’t feel obligated to share your plans with everyone. Outside interference will throw you for a loop.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Use your brain, not your brawn, and you’ll get good results. Someone you meet or make plans with will offer insight into how best to make a difference. Make stability a priority at home.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Listen to others, but don’t let anyone fill your head with lies. Get the facts and recognize when someone isn’t telling the full truth. Trust your instincts.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Downsize, declutter and simplify your life. Consider what’s meaningful and project a positive attitude. Refuse to let anger set in or allow profit-driven ventures to consume you. Be resourceful.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Stay active, do your part and pay attention to detail. Monitor a joint venture if you want to avoid a loss. Someone will use persuasive tactics to convince you to do something unnecessary.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Your words will influence the people you encounter. Be aware of the impact you have, offer positive reinforcement and make honesty a priority. A relationship will take an emotional turn.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Contract dilemma: Outgoing Girlz Coach says JFF's decision had nothing to do with football

…Chung reluctant to engage in public spat

Outgoing senior Reggae Girlz Head Coach Lorne

Donaldson stopped just short of saying he was the victim of a personal vendetta waged against him by Jamaica Football Federation’s General Secretary Dennis Chung, as he refuted claims about how discussions to cut ties transpired.

Donaldson, in response to a widely-circulated release by the JFF, pointed out that the decision not to renew his contract was by no means mutual, as the meeting with Chung and JFF’s Human Resource Manager Suzie George-Gayle lasted a mere five minutes.

The JFF in its statement said, “after an extended discussion, both parties came to an agreement that the contract would not be renewed”.

But Donaldson, in an interview with Sportsmax.tv, rubbished the claims.

“He [Chung] said they are terminating me. There was no discussion. In a five-minute meeting, he just said congrats on everything and the next thing was, ‘we will not renew your contract.’ There was no reason why, or anything, he just said, we will not renew your contract,” he shared.

Donaldson, along with former Head Coach Hue Menzies, was first introduced to the Reggae Girlz programme by women’s football ambassador Cedella Marley in 2015 and led the country to an historic first FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance in France in 2019.

However, after departing the programme in 2020, following the steps of Menzies, who left earlier in 2019, Donaldson was reappointed in June 2022, to replace Vinimore “Vin” Blaine, who was forced to resign a few months into his tenure, after the Girlz expressed their displeasure with his leadership in a scathing letter.

Like he did in 2019, Donaldson again led the Reggae Girlz to the World Cup, jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand, where they had an historic run to the round of 16, after drawing with France and Brazil and defeating Panama in the group stage.

The Reggae Girlz eventually

bowed out following a 0-1 loss to Colombia.

In their most recent fixtures, the Reggae Girlz suffered backto-back losses to Canada in a failed bid to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, but the progress the team has made under Donaldson’s leadership is without question.

The tactician does not believe he was judged on that basis.

“Another thing he said is that if they had done well with the Olympic qualifiers, we (the coaching staff) would have carried on. You don’t want to work in a condition where you are being judged based on one game and not your body of work. So, I guess what happened at the World Cup didn’t matter and it never really had anything to do with football,” Donaldson opined.

“It’s because I disagreed with the way they want to treat players and coaches, and I defended the Girlz. They have been waiting for the opportunity to do this (get rid of me), because they have been trying to do this from June,” he added.

The outspoken coach recalled a conversation in which he and Chung did not see eye-toeye and he believes it was from that point that their relationship spiralled.

“From day one when he said women’s football will never catch on in Jamaica and people will never support women’s football, and I told him he is wrong, I realised the relationship has been topsy-turvy since then,” Donaldson revealed.

He continued: “He said nobody cares about women’s football in Jamaica and it doesn’t matter how bad the men’s team is, the men will get more support than the women. That was when we were trying to go to Australia for the (Cup of Nations) tournament and from that day I knew we are always going to be fighting for these Girlz, because it revealed to me that they really don’t care about the Girlz.

“He was trying to justify why we shouldn’t have gone to the tournament in Australia, all because they were spending a little money, even though Australia

was spending some money as well. And then he came up with these ridiculous flight prices and I said no, it is way less than that. And from February on, he was total against everything that we were doing.”

Despite sensing Chung’s perceived dislike, Donaldson explained that it was his duty as Head Coach to remain resolute in his fight for the players, who sometimes felt disheartened by the show of support, or lack thereof, from the country’s governing football body in particular.

“We had to stand up for the Girlz and I stick to that. When they are right, we fought for them and when they were wrong, I told them. And then we had to make sure they had the resources that we can have them perform,” Donaldson said.

“It showed the other day when we didn’t have the proper equipment for them to train. There was no equipment on the first day of camp and stuff like that affected the Girlz, because they didn’t feel the love. They kept saying people didn’t care.

“They just went to a World Cup and see all around the world how everybody (other countries) is speaking glowingly of their team, and they come to Jamaica and can’t even get the proper equipment,” he reasoned.

That said, Donaldson wished the JFF and Reggae Girlz well on their future endeavours, starting with the upcoming CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup qualifying matches against Panama and Guatemala next month.

“The JFF, whatever they have planned for the Girlz, I hope they are successful with it, and I wish them all the best from the bottom of my heart. They made a decision, and I am fine with that,” he declared.

“We have a great group of players that are going to come in, and what we have achieved is basically a scratch on the surface because the sky is the limit with this group of Girlz,” Donaldson ended.

Meanwhile, Chung when contacted about the allegations, was reluctant to address what transpired during the meeting.

“I don’t want to comment on those decisions (made during the meeting), I don’t know

where those comments are coming from, but from an ethical point of view, I’m just not going to comment on it. We issued a release, and the release speaks for itself,” Chung told Sportsmax.tv.

However, he admitted to an extent that the February conversation in Montego Bay did happen, but not exactly how it was stated by Donaldson.

“I never said that people don’t care about women’s foot-

ball, I don’t know where that is coming from. What I have said in the past is that no matter how well the women do, it seems like people tend to support the men more in terms of attendance at matches and that is something that has been said internationally. So, I was just echoing it because someone said it on a sports programme I was listening to,” Chung explained.

“It is an unfortunate comment that he made, but I didn’t listen to it, because the fact is that the JFF has spent a lot more money on the women’s programme than the men’s programme and in terms of resourcing it, has given it equal footing, if not more.

“So, it’s a very unfortunate comment if that was said because when you talk about sponsorship, most of the sponsors have come in for the women’s programme, so that was very unfortunate,” he argued.

When asked about the possible timeline for Donaldson’s replacement given the significance of the upcoming fixtures, Chung said information should be forthcoming by today.

“We are working to ensure that a team is in place so I’m sure that by Monday we will have that sorted in terms of what we are doing. So, something is being worked on and the JFF will communicate that,” Chung noted. (Sportsmax)

Biles makes history on World Championships return

Simone Biles made history on her return to the World Gymnastics Championships in Antwerp, becoming the first woman to land a Yurchenko double pike vault.

The move – now renamed the Biles II – helped the 26-yearold American into first place in all-around qualifying.

Biles was competing internationally for the first time since taking a two-year break from the sport to work on her mental health.

She made a triumphant return in August, winning the US Classic.

Biles scored 15.266 for landing the Yurchenko double pike, which is rated as the most difficult jump in the women's scoring code.

She scored a total of 58.865 in the all-around, leading to the vault being named Biles II after a different, original vault was named after her in 2018.

With 25 world medals, the most of any gymnast in history, and seven Olympic medals, Biles is the oldest American woman to compete at the worlds. She now has five skills

named after her – two on the floor exercise, two on vault, and one on the balance beam.

Biles' efforts, which come 10 years after her global debut in the same city, helped the United States top the women's qualifying table.

She had not competed internationally since pulling out of five of her six finals at the delayed Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021.

Biles later explained she had been suffering from the 'twisties' – a mental block where gymnasts can lose their sense of space in the air.

Earlier in the day, Great Britain's men finished third in qualifying with Max Whitlock, Harry Hepworth, Jake Jarman, James Hall, and Courtney Tulloch combining to score 254.193 points and secure their spot in Tuesday's final.

The women's team, consisting of Jessica Gadirova, Ondine Achampong, Alice Kinsella, Georgia-Mae Fenton and Ruby Evans are currently second on 166.130 points with qualifying set to conclude today.

The women's team final takes place on Wednesday. (BBC Sport)

Simone Biles has won 19 gold medals at the World Championships

Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz

Dennis Chung (left) and Lorne Donaldson

World Classic & Equipped Masters Powerlifting Championships… support for GAPLF’s Taharally and Rogers

The unwavering tangible support of local supplement and equipment store Fitness Express has continued for the sport of powerlifting.

With two athletes, Nadina Taharally and Roger Rogers set to make their debuts at the World Classic & Equipped Masters Powerlifting Championships in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from October 8-15, Fitness Express Manager Jamie McDonald was more than eager to assist the duo.

On Saturday last at the John and Sheriff Streets, Campbellville headquarters of Fitness Express, and in the presence of Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) President Franklin Wilson, McDonald presented Taharally and Rogers with supplements and vitamins to aid in their success in Mongolia.

“I am more than happy to continue my company’s support of these athletes. As you are well aware, I have been doing this for more than a decade and haven’t been disappointed, that’s why we continue to support you. We here at Fitness Express would like to wish you the best and we look forward to your success

and the continued success of powerlifting,” he said.

Wilson, on behalf of the athletes, expressed the Federation’s gratitude to McDonald and Fitness Express for their unwavering support over the years towards the athletes who travel overseas as well as their solid support for all the Federation’s competitions, locally.

“We want to let you know that words are not enough to express the gratitude of

Boston Celtics add Jrue Holiday in trade with Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers traded AllStar guard Jrue Holiday to the Boston Celtics on Sunday, elevating the Eastern Conference arms race.

The Celtics are sending centre Robert Williams III and guard Malcolm Brogdon in the deal, they announced. A 2024 firstround pick via Golden State and a 2029 first-round pick is also heading to the Blazers, sources said.

The Trail Blazers are stacking assets in the wake of the Damian Lillard blockbuster to the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday, a deal that brought them Holiday with an intention to trade him to the league's highest bidder over the weekend.

way guards, and his arrival with the Bucks played a huge part in the franchise's 2021 NBA championship.

all the members of the powerlifting body for the confidence you continue to have in us and the sport. We assure you that it can only get better,” the GAPLF President said.

Taharally would be contesting the Masters 11 76kg Class of the World Masters Women's Classic Championships, with Rogers set to compete in the Master 11 120kg category of the World Masters Men's Classic Championships.

The Celtics were an aggressive suitor for Holiday, 33, and are expected to work to sign him to a long-term deal with free agency looming in the summer of 2024. The acquisition of Holiday could vault the Celtics over the Bucks as the preseason favourite in the Eastern Conference.

Holiday is considered one of the league's best two-

Holiday made the Eastern Conference All-Star team in 2023 after a nine-year gap between appearances that was the longest in NBA history.

The Blazers are expected to want to keep Williams to pair with new centre Deandre Ayton, but Brogdon will likely be part of additional trade talks upon his arrival in Portland, sources said. Absent another trade,

Brogdon will start the season with Portland. The Blazers are committed to a young group of guards including number three draft pick Scoot Henderson, 2022 first-round pick Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons, who signed a US$100 million extension last summer.

Even before a potential Brogdon deal, the Blazers have a significant return to show for the Lillard trade: Ayton, Williams, Brogdon, and first-round picks in 2024 (via Golden State, protected 1-4); 2029 (Milwaukee unprotected) and 2029 (Boston unprotected). The Blazers also have pick swaps with the Bucks in 2028 and 2030. (ESPN)

Boxing stars set to shine in November at Everest

Guyana will once again be in the spotlight as two major World Boxing Council (WBC) championship fights are scheduled for November 11, and they will be held in the heart of Georgetown at the Everest Cricket Ground thanks to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, who has transformed the Club into a major events venue over the past few years.

WBC International Superflyweight champion Elton Dharry will defend his title which he won in a hard-fought battle last April at the Providence National Stadium, in front of a packed audience which included President Irfaan Ali and Ministers of the Cabinet. Dexter Marques will fight for the WBC FECARBOX title in what promises to be the marquee boxing event of the year. The fight is sanctioned by the WBC and the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC), and being brought to you by

Nexgen Global Promotions and Jack Bharat in association with the Everest Cricket Club and Ministry of Sports.

Dharry, who is one of the most prolific fighters in his class, is the top-ranked contender for the world title and hoped that this fight will show the world that Guyana was ready to host a world title fight.

Guyana’s

"This is my time and with the Guyana Government having demonstrated its commitment to sports and tourism, there is no bigger draw than a championship fight to focus the world's attention on Guyana!" he declared.

Meanwhile, Marques is no slouch when it comes to the ring and plans on a dominant performance

is expected to be in action next month on local shores

to secure a victory, "I am a great fighter who is now getting the opportunity to show the world my talent. This will be a fight to remember!"

According to Bharat, "Elton Dharry is one of our greatest fighters and we are one step away from securing another world title for the country. I want to thank the Government of

Guyana for their unwavering support for the sport and I know that raising is a fight that fans won't want to miss!"

GBBC President Peter Abdool said, "Boxing is the only sport that has brought an Olympic medal to our country and we have produced five world champions so far and have the potential for many more.

I am excited to see this event, a long time in the making, come to fruition and expect that another world title fight will soon be on Guyana's soil."

Tickets for this double title fight are limited and are in extremely high demand so contact the Guyana Boxing Board or Everest Cricket Club before they are sold out.

Fitness Express's Jamie McDonald flanked by Nadina Taharally (right) and Roger Rogers

Elton Dharry

Jrue Holiday

GCB Senior Intercounty Super50… Sampson’s 4 outshines Thorne’s

4 as Essequibo bag massive win

Amassive 172-run victory was on the cards for the Essequibo team on Sunday, as they thrashed the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Select XI in its Senior Men’s Intercounty Super50 tournament.

After a solid batting performance from the Essequibians, Quentin Sampson wreaked havoc with the ball in hand to destabilise the Select XI’s chase.

Playing at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Ground, Bourda, in pristine conditions on Sunday, the Select XI won the toss and chose to field first.

Essequibo got off to a lessthan-perfect start as Kevin Boodie’s 20 from 12 balls was the only two-digit score in the top order. Kemol Savory stabilised the innings after contributing 29 runs from 67 balls. However, after Savory’s repair job, it was Malcolm Hubbard who did the heavy lifting, hitting 76 from 73 deliveries, inclusive of six sixes and three fours. Ricardo Adams fell just shy of his half-century, getting to 48 off 47 balls, before falling victim to Christopher Barnwell’s bowling. Essequibo

Captain Anthony Adams kept the runs flowing, adding 39 from 47 deliveries to steer his

team to a commendable total of 273-9 in 50 overs.

Under-19 talent Isai

Thorne was undeniably the shining star on display for the Select XI, picking up four wickets in his spell of 4-52 from 10. Select XI Captain Junior Sinclair was just as good with returns of 4-40 from 10.

Later on, a hat-trick of ducks in the middle order, effected by Quentin Sampson devastated the Select XI’s chase. With Raymon Perez and Sachin Singh opening, the latter went early for five off 10 balls, compliments of Sampson’s bowling. The next man in, Shemar Yearwood,

only lasted three balls before falling prey to Sampson. Thereafter, Joshua Persaud and Barnwell were both added to Sampson’s list after facing just one and two deliveries respectively. Captain Sinclair hardly troubled the score with five from four balls, leaving Perez at the next end to fend for himself and team.

After Perez’s 25 from 41 balls, Suresh Dhanai’s 23 from 51 balls was the next best score for the Select XI. Aside, from Jonathan and

Aryan Persaud’s 13 from 36 and 31 balls respectively, every other batter on the team failed to reach double digits.

Sampson eventually finished with figures of 4-18 from five overs, while both Captain Adams (2- 25 from 10) and Garfield Philips (2-20 from 1.2) picked up two wickets to bowl out the Select XI for a measly 101 runs in 32.2 overs.

With Round 1 now complete, Berbice and Essequibo currently lead proceedings on account of the victories over

the weekend. Round 2 of the Senior Intercounty tournament will bowl off on Tuesday, October 3 with a clash between defending champions Berbice and the GCB Select

XI at Enmore Ground from 09:00h.

On the same day, at the GCC Ground, Demerara and Essequibo will face off, also from 09:00h.

SCOREBOARD

Essequibo

Kevin Boodie c Jonathan Rampersaud b Isai Throne 20

Jadon Campbell c Joshua

Persaud b Junior Sinclair 5

Norman Fedricks c Joshua

Persaud b Christopher Barnwell 3

Kemol Savory+ c Joshua

Persaud b Isai Throne 29

Malcum Hubbard c Joshua

Persaud b Isai Throne 76

Ricardo Adams c Jonathan Rampersaud

b Christopher Barnwell 48

Anthony Adams* c Raymond

Perez b Junior Sinclair 39

Quentin Sampson b Junior Sinclair 0

David Williams c Zeynul

Ramsammy b Isai Throne 2

Neiland Cadogan not out 13

Phillips

O-M-R-W Isai Throne 10-1-52-4

Christopher Barnwell 10-0-60-2

Junior Sinclair 10-0-40-3

Aryan Persaud

Matthews stands tall, but Healy, McGrath power Australia to victory

Australia overcame a masterful innings from West Indies Captain Hayley Matthews to take the opening T20 International in Sydney by a comfortable eight-wicket margin with Alyssa Healy marking her 250th international by smashing a 25-ball half-century.

On a stifling hot spring day, an exhausted Matthews was left stranded on 99 when she could only gather singles in the final over as her exer-

tions took a toll, but it had been a statement innings from the captain who had spoken of wanting to lead from the front.

However, West Indies' total of 147 was put into context on a traditionally high-scoring ground by the way Healy and Tahlia McGrath dismantled the target with 40 balls to spare.

Beth Mooney fell in the third over when she chipped to mid-off, but Healy and

SCOREBOARD

West Indies Women (20 ovs maximum)

Hayley Matthews (c) not out 99

Shabika Gajnabi

b Brown 0

Stafanie Taylor run out (Litchfield) 10

Shemaine Campbelle st †Healy

b Gardner 19

Chinelle Henry not out 1

Extras (lb 9, nb 3, w 6) 18

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 7.35) 147/3

Did not bat: Rashada Williams

†, Aaliyah Alleyne, Zaida

James, Shamilia Connell, Afy

Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack

Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Shabika

Gajnabi, 3.5 ov), 2-90 (Stafanie

Taylor, 12.1 ov), 3-146 (Shemaine

Campbelle, 19.5 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Megan Schutt 4-1-15-0

Ashleigh Gardner 4-0-26-1

Jess Jonassen 2-0-20-0

Darcie Brown 3-0-29-1

Georgia Wareham 3-0-21-0

Annabel Sutherland 3-0-17-0

Tahlia McGrath 1-0-10-0

Australia Women T: 148 runs from 20 ovs)

Beth Mooney c Taylor

b Henry 11

Alyssa Healy (c)† c Henry

b Matthews 56

Tahlia McGrath not out 60

Ashleigh Gardner not out 13

Extras (lb 1, nb 2, w 6) 9

TOTAL 13.2 Ov (RR: 11.17) 149/2

Did not bat: Ellyse Perry, Phoebe

Litchfield, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Jess Jonassen, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown

Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Beth Mooney, 2.5 ov), 2-107 (Alyssa Healy, 9.3 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Chinelle Henry 3-0-30-1

Hayley Matthews 2-0-17-1

Karishma Ramharack 2-0-16-0

Afy Fletcher 1.2-0-20-0

Shamilia Connell 2-0-28-0

Zaida James 1.2-0-21-0

Aaliyah Alleyne 1.4-0-16-0

McGrath feasted on West Indies' bowling in a stand of 85 off 40 balls with the pair hitting six sixes between them.

Healy raced to her half-century by taking 14 off Zaida James' first over, although she had been given lives on 27 and 48. Both were regulation chances: the first by Matthews at cover and the second by Shemaine Campbelle which struck her in the face causing an injury.

McGrath was only fractionally slower, needing just 26 balls for her fifty as she took three boundaries in an over off Shamilia Connell.

In the closing stages of the

chase, Aaliyah Alleyne was withdrawn from the attack for two beamers at McGrath and Ash Gardner.

It was a more polished display with the bat by Australia than it had been in the field which included two droppedcatches - by Georgia Wareham and Phoebe Litchfield – and a couple of misfields on the boundary.

Matthews' innings was the highest score for West Indies against Australia in any format. It continued an impressive year in which she has averaged over 40 in T20Is and she had entered this series on the back of a Player-of-

the-Match performance in the Women’s Caribbean Premier (WCPL) final.

She was quickly above a run a ball and took on Darcie Brown in an absorbing battle as the Australia pace bowler pushed the speed gun towards 120kph. Matthews

The combined tally of the other batters was 30 off 49 balls. Opener Shabika Gajnabi soaked up six deliveries before dragging on against Brown and Stafanie Taylor laboured to 10 off 20 in a stand of 68 before being run out by a direct hit from Litchfield at cover.

drove through cover, pulled a flat six over deep square leg then edged wide of slip before Brown clanged her on the helmet with a short ball.

Her fifty came up from 36 deliveries and moments later she added another six off the expensive Brown with a disdainful flick over backward square.

As brilliant as Matthew was, however, her teammates struggled to match her.

Campbelle also lagged behind Matthews' tempo although she did manage the biggest strike of the innings when she launched McGrath out of the ground over deep midwicket.

Megan Schutt, in her 100th T20I, was the pick of the Australia attack with just 15 runs from her four overs (and 11 of those came off her last) and the spell also included a maiden. (ESPNcricinfo)

Malcolm Hubbard receives his Man-of-the-Match award

Alyssa Healy and Tahlia McGrath added 85 runs off 40 balls for the second wicket

Stafanie Taylor was run out by a direct hit from Phoebe Litchfield

Quentin Sampson effected a hat-trick of ducks