Guyana Times - Saturday, November 11, 2023

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Republic Bank honours top NGSA, CSEC RightStart account holders Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 5550

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

Govt looking for another partner to fast-track natural gas development – VP Jagdeo – says not pleased with current pace

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

PM highlights Guyana’s ambitious energy diversification plan at OLADE P17 Meeting

See story on page 7

ExxonMobil seals US$1.26B deal with Over 5000 ECD allottees to SBM to purchase Liza Unity FPSO access house

P16

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lots by year-end

– 3Q report highlights Whiptail FEED contract, delivery of Prosperity

Juvenile gets $150K bail for killing East Canje peer P8

Father of Winners of Caribbean 2 dies after Statistics Day competitions crashing awarded motorcycle into car “Short Boss” to be sentenced Oil & gas among interests to be discussed for 2nd killing during Canadian MPs' visit to Guyana “Your nation is Page 9 behind you, rooting for your success” – President Ali assures UG graduands

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Page 10

P15

P8

Duo plead guilty to P17 trafficking over 2kg narcotics Rhéal Éloi Fortin, MP

Alexandra Mendès, MP

Senator Salma Ataullahjan

Robert Kitchen, MP

– 3rd person remanded after pleading not guilty

2 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Father of 2 dies after crashing motorcycle into car

The motorcycle that Rahaman was riding at the time of the accident

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father of two is now dead after he reportedly lost control of the motorcycle he was riding and crashed into the car on the Corentyne Highway on Thursday.

The dead man has been identified as 35-year-old Rondel Marlon Rahaman, an operator of Bloomfield Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

The accident occurred on Thursday at about 8:00h at Tain Village along the Corentyne Highway, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) but Rahaman

later succumbed to his injuries.

At the time of the accident, the father of two was riding a motorcycle bearing registration plates CK 7484 The dead man’s wife, when contacted, explained that she received a telephone call shortly after her husband left home. The caller stated that Rahaman was involved in an accident and instructed her to go to the Port Mourant Hospital.

When she arrived at the medical facility, her husband was in an uncon-

scious state with injuries to the lower part of his body along with head injuries.

She said she was told that his condition was serious.

“They transfer him to the New Amsterdam Hospital. When I got there, they allowed me to pay him a visit again and then I had a talk with about ten doctors within the space of one hour. They told me that my husband is brain dead and his feet are broken.

However, they told me that they were going to transfer him to Georgetown Hospital but after they made a

Dead: Rondell Marlon Rahaman and his wife in happier times

phone call, Georgetown said that they can’t do anything about it.”

The injured man was eventually placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the New Amsterdam Hospital where he took his last breath a short while later.

According to the aggrieved wife, the person who contacted her witnessed the accident.

“She told me that my husband's motorbike was

going towards Rose Hall and the vehicle turned out from a corner in front of my husband's motorcycle and he pitched off from the motorbike and went up in the air and come down back,” the now widowed woman said while adding that she was also told that her husband remained on the road for some time as the driver was reluctant to render assistance.

“The guy at the barber shop told me the same

thing when I went to the scene. He said that he is the person who had to force the driver that hit down my husband to take him to the hospital.”

According to the woman, her husband, who was a hire car operator, left home to go and pick up the car to take his children to school, something he usually does on a daily basis.

Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus told <<<Guyana Times>>> that the driver was arrested. He told the Police that he did not see Rahaman.

“He just said that the motorcyclist was travelling from one direction to another and he did not see the motorcyclist and came out of the street and the motorcyclist ran into his back,” Bacchus stated.

The dead man’s wife, who is also a Government part-time worker, said they had been married for seven years. The taxi driver previously worked in the security department of the Albion Sugar Estate.

Rahaman is the 20th road fatality for Region Six for the year thus far and the 11th motorcyclist to have lost his life. (Andrew Carmichael)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, Nov 11 – 03:00h – 04:30h and Sunday, Nov 12 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, Nov 11 – 15:10h – 16:40h and Sunday, Nov 12 – 15:40h – 17:10h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine and light rain showers during the day. Expect clear skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 15:15h reaching a maximum

height of 2.62 metres.

Low Tide: 08:52h and 21:12h reaching minimum heights of 0.68 metre and 0.55 metre.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023

LOTTERY NUMBERS J

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FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023 DAILY MILLIONS

14 17 22

04 05 LUCKY 3

3

1

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Afternoon Draw

9

1

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

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SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2023

01 03 08 09 14 1

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FP Afternoon Draw

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3X Evening Draw

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Crude Oil

$81.43/barrel

+1.77

Rough Rice London Sugar

$301.32/ton $747.10/ton

+1.36 -1.26

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

Change %

USD Per Ounce $1938.70 $1932.60 0.00

$1939.70 $1959.40 0.00

ExxonMobil seals US$1.26B deal with SBM to purchase Liza Unity FPSO - 3Q report highlights Whiptail FEED contract, delivery of Prosperity

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nited States oil giant, ExxonMobil, has completed the payment of some US$1.26 billion to its affiliate, Dutch-based SBM Offshore, for the purchase of the Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel.

In a brief statement on Friday, SBM Offshore disclosed the two companies completed the purchase transaction a few months ahead of the end of the maximum lease term, which was set for February 2024.

“The purchase allows ExxonMobil Guyana to assume ownership of the unit while SBM Offshore will continue to operate and maintain the FPSO up to 2033,” the missive detailed.

According to SBM, “The transaction comprises a total cash consideration of US$1.26 billion. The net cash proceeds will primarily be used for the full repayment of the US$1.14 billion project financing and as such will decrease SBM Offshore’s net debt position.”

In fact, Chief Executive Officer of SBM Offshore, Bruno Chabas said in the company’s Third Quarter Report that given this purchase transaction, they revised their revenue and EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) guidance upwards to reflect this. Consequently, the 2023 EBITDA guidance increased from US$1 billion to around US$1.3 billion.

The Liza Unity FPSO was commissioned for the Liza Phase Two project – Exxon’s second development in the oil-rich Stabroek Block Offshore Guyana.

This vessel has been on hire since February 2022 and this year, was operated through the integrated operations and maintenance model combining SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil’s expertise and experience delivering outstanding operational performance.

Production using the Liza Unity FPSO commenced in February 2022

The Liza Unity FPSO

with the maximum capacity to produce up to 220,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd). It also has the capacity to have associated gas treatment of some 400 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd), and a water injection capacity of 250,000 b/d. This vessel can store

Recent data from the Natural Resources Ministry revealed that the US oil major’s projects in the Stabroek Block have produced approximately 91 million barrels of crude.

According to the Ministry’s Petroleum Management Programme, the aver-

around two million barrels of crude oil (bbl).

The Liza Phase Two development has a total of six drill centres with 30 wells, including 15 oil-producing wells, nine water injection wells, and six gas injection wells.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Exxon, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), holds 45 per cent interest in the block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

Exxon, along with its partners, is currently producing some 400,000 bpd in the Stabroek Block from the Liza Phase One and Two projects.

age output for this year is pegged at some 377,850 bpd with the Liza Unity demonstrating high volumes.

While the Liza Phase One has produced around 36 million barrels at 148,330 bpd, the Liza Phase Two project has generated some 56 million barrels at 231,080 bpd and this amount has increased in recent months.

ExxonMobil has said it anticipates at least six projects offshore Guyana, including the Whiptail project, will be online by 2027. With production already ongoing at the Liza Phase 1 and 2 projects, Exxon is expected to start up its third development, Payara, before the end of this year.

In addition to Unity, SBM Offshore has already built the Liza Destiny FPSO for the Liza Phase One project and the Prosperity vessel for the Payara project. The

Prosperity FPSO arrived in Guyana in April this year. The Dutch company will also build the One Guyana FPSO for Exxon’s fourth project – Yellowtail.

Only last month, SBM Offshore announced that it has bagged the contracts to perform Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) for the FPSO vessel for the Whiptail Development project – Exxon’s sixth development offshore Guyana.

The Dutch company said it will eventually construct and install the FPSO upon the completion of the FEED contract.

This FEED contract and the delivery of the Prosperity FPSO were some of the highlights presented in SBM Offshore’s Third Quarter Report.

According to CEO Chabas, “We are pleased to have been awarded a further FEED contract in Guyana for an FPSO for the Whiptail development project. This project, subject to Government approvals and a final investment decision by ExxonMobil Guyana, will be the fifth for the company in Guyana and is based on a new commercial model: the FPSO’s ownership is expected to be transferred to the client at the end of the construction period. SBM Offshore is then expected to operate the FPSO using its innovative integrated operations and maintenance model. This combines SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil’s expertise and experience, leveraging key learnings and the operational excellence of the units currently deployed in Guyana.” (G-8)

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

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Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Restorative justice system S

hould justice be punitive, or rehabilitative? Should the system come down hard and incarcerate anyone who commits a crime, regardless of severity or circumstance; or should we look to move forward in a way that focuses on rehabilitating and re-educating perpetrators? Even more importantly, how should the system differ for children or young people?

Worldwide studies show that a high percentage of young offenders go on to reoffend, and that the types of people they come into contact with during their incarceration often serve to support a network of continued criminal activity, leading to a longer career of crime. Some therefore argue that imprisoning young offenders keeps them more firmly on a path of delinquency, and that alternative measures may better serve to encourage them to become more responsible citizens.

Children’s Rights Bills are in place in an effort to protect all children. Is it fair to make them forfeit those rights because they make mistakes, when all too often the reasons and causes behind those mistakes are societal failures? Of course, there are numerous violent, evil crimes being committed by both young and old that warrant tough consequences, but law enforcement needs to recognise when heavy sentences are appropriate and when alternative approaches would better suit a child, society, and the system. Do you keep pumping funds and resources into a system that sees high instances of reoffending and little or no moral adjustments in attitudes; or do you try another route?

Guyana’s juvenile justice system has long been in need of change, and thankfully is in the process of reform. UNICEF has made many recommendations that lean towards more rehabilitative programmes than a harsher punitive system.

Progressively, ministers are receiving up-to-date training and applying their developing knowledge to the draft bills on reform of the system.

The focus is definitely on the rights of children, and areas under consideration are: the age of responsibility, the decriminalization of minor delinquent acts, duration and facilities of incarceration, and preventive measures.

The danger is that to move from one extreme to another in a short amount of time can bring a set of problems of their own. There is the risk that failure to punish crime, and the shift of responsibility from children who may well be fully aware of their actions, and be responsible for them, will allow abuses of the system.

Young people are already vulnerable to older criminals recruiting and exploiting them. Older criminals may take advantage of the lenient consequences children will encounter if they are caught by encouraging children to take bigger risks and become further embroiled in criminal activity.

Balance, as usual, should be the objective. Yes, there has to be an ultimate goal that assimilates itself with a global vision, but a realistic, achievable phase that has a real impact on those most in need should be the initial plan of action.

There should be a system that is capable of judging individual cases, guided by sound legislation that reflect the rights of the child, while pursuing safe outcomes for society.

There should be a system that is multi-layered in its approach, so punishment, correction, or support fits the crime. Promoting a culture wherein prevention comes from a holistic perspective based on researched youth work, training professionals, educating caregivers, and utilising schools would aid reform incalculably.

The mindset of many front-line professionals needs shifting before new legislation can have any chance of being successfully implemented. There are many considerations to be overcome before people can be expected to accept a new concept and way of viewing youth justice.

Understanding that crime can be the result of many different issues, and following a new model that may seem too tolerant and indulgent will be a huge stumbling block for many within the justice system. However, if people at the top lead by example, continually working towards reform, and other countries’ support and guidance remain, then Guyana has a chance to develop a more humane and restorative system with which to deal with Juvenile Justice.

Kamarang village, located in Region Seven, (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). This Mike Charles photo shows the airstrip surrounded by houses, vegetation, the Kamarang Creek, and the mountains

Cost oil audits and the Petroleum Agreement Dear Editor, There were, in a certain section of the media, several reports highlighting a number of the cost oil audit findings [preliminarily] for the period 2018-2020. Of interest, it was reported that the auditors had requested the production data from ExxonMobil Guyana (EMG). According to these reports, the auditors were reportedly consistently told by EMG that the production data is not part of the scope of the audit, and that the data is with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).

The scope of the cost oil audit is governed by the provisions of the Petroleum Agreement (2016).

Understandably, there are likely to be differences in interpretation by the various parties, in this case, by the auditors and EMG (Contractor). Having examined the relevant provisions in the Petroleum Agreement, my interpretation is that the production data is part of the scope of the audit and inspections, therefore the auditors were in order to request same from EMG. And although the Ministry ought to be in possession of the data, EMG should not have responded in that manner to the request, assuming that the reports in the media are true and correct.

To this end, the understated provisions of the Petroleum Agreement (2016) come into effect: Pursuant to Article 9.1 (a) of the Petroleum Agreement, “the Contractor shall, at all times while this Agreement is in force, maintain and submit to the Minister in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Regulations, the Petroleum Production License and this Agreement, full and accurate reports, records, returns and accounts of Petroleum Operations in the Contract Area”.

Article 9.1 (b) establishes… “all data, well logs, maps, magnetic tapes, cuts of cores and cutting samples and all other geological and geophysical information obtained by the Contractor

in the course of carrying out Petroleum Operations hereunder and all geological, technical, financial, and economic reports, studies and analyses generated in relation thereto shall be submitted to the Minister in accordance with the Regulations”.

Article 9.1 (d) establishes…

“Petroleum Data shall be the joint property of the Minister and the Contractor but shall become the sole property of the Minister with respect to any area which ceases to be part of the Contract area, whether as a result of relinquishment, or expiry, surrender or termination of a License or otherwise in accordance with the Act, from the date on which such area ceases to be part of the Contract Area”.

Further, Article 9.1 establishes…

“Nothing in this Article shall be construed as requiring the Contractor or any of the parties comprising the Contractor to disclose any of its proprietary technology or that of its Affiliated Companies which is not acquired in the course of Petroleum Operations under this Agreement” … (g) “All Petroleum Data acquired under the 1999 Petroleum Agreement shall be Petroleum data under this Agreement and shall have been considered to have been properly acquired hereunder; however, nothing in regard to this Article 9.1 (g) shall affect the rights of the Government in data acquired through multi-client licenses”.

Article 23 – Accounting and Audits

Article 23.1 establishes that “the Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining accounting records relating to Petroleum Operations under this Agreement, with the Accounting Procedures set out in Annex C hereto”.

Article 23.2 establishes that “the Minister shall have the right to audit the accounting records of the Contractor in respect of Petroleum Operations in accordance with

Accounting Procedure”.

Article 23.3 establishes that “nothing in this Article shall be construed as limiting the right of Government or any officer of Government pursuant to any statutory power to audit or cause to be audited the books of the Contractor”.

Article 31 – Miscellaneous

Article 31.3 establishes that “in the event of any conflict between any provisions in the main body of this Agreement and any provisions in the Annexes, the provision in the main body shall prevail”.

Annex C – Accounting Procedure

1.2 Documentation Required to be Submitted by the Contractor a) The Contractor shall keep the accounts, operating records, reports, and statements relating to the Petroleum Operations: (i) in accordance with the terms of the Agreement and this Accounting Procedure; and (ii) in such form as may be agreed from time to time between the Parties, which shall identify the categories of costs, expenses, expenditures, and credits classified in Sections 2 and 3 of this Annex. (b) Pursuant to (a) above, the Contractor shall make quarterly Statements relating to the Petroleum Operations including: (i) Production Statement (see section 5 of this Annex). (ii) Value of Production and Pricing Statement (see section 6 of this Annex). (iii) Statement of Expenditures and Receipts (see section 7 of this Annex). (iv) Cost Recovery Statement (see section 8 of this Annex). (v) End of Year Statement (see section 9 of this Annex). (vi) Budget Statement (see section 10 of this Annex).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

The rights of Guyanese Dear Editor, Touching on the subject of one's rights under the law as a Guyanese and as a citizen of the world, it is interesting to note what are the tenets therein.

Under The UN Charter, there are certain rights enshrined, such as the fundamental rights and dignity of a human being, and to live in peace and harmony with each other and our neighbours.

Another one of those rights is a citizen's right to vote - and this is the single most important article that gives Norton the jitters, if not diarrhoea: the right to

vote.

Article 25 of The United Nations Covenant states that any citizen, irrespective of religion, colour or political affiliation, has the right to vote. That means if and when you are a legal citizen of that country, then it is your human duty to choose a Government of your choice.

This is a troubling area for Mr Norton, as he thrashes the Government on the issue of the Venezuelan migrants' presence here in Guyana. In his view, becoming a citizen does not give them the right to vote; and further, if they were allowed to vote, they should choose a

party of his liking.

I have already dealt with the issue of the Venezuelan refugees, many of whom are Guyanese remigrating to their homeland, so there is no question here of their identity, the only problem is whom should they vote for.

But before we proceed, let me remind Mister Norton of the way his party under Burnham exploited that right. Thousands of voters (allegedly) living overseas, under mysterious circumstances, voted solidly in favour of his party.

This was a shameful chapter in our history, which we would never coun-

tenance a repeat. That illegal sourcing of votes was changed only when the PPP/C Administration put a genuine legal stop to it.

Neither would we forget the mass exodus of Guyanese to overseas territories, caused by the authoritarian rule of the corrupt PNC. It was a time when thousands of our people sought refuge in other countries, Venezuela being one of them. So, to listen to Mister Norton speaking of returning citizens of this country in such harsh tones leaves much to be desired of him.

The Venezuelans are our own people, sir!

Conversely, that could not be said of the Haitians, who were simply passing through our shores. Mr. Norton spoke of them in terms of endearment because, in his book, they were prospective supporters and future votes at election time.

But there was a serious problem when it came to the Haitians, they were being trafficked into and then out of Guyana again, and their presence here was a temporary one. We know of the top coordinators of that trafficking ring, persons who, together with their "Haitian

Dear Editor, As we celebrated Diwali, my thoughts would usually go back to my youthful days, when my friends and I would travel from village to village, absorbing the spectacular displays of the lighted diyas and the fireworks, and enjoying the delicacies prepared and shared by our Hindu neighbours.

Under the PPP/C Government, the Festival did assume national proportion, and did also earn national recognition, as a larger number of Hindus and non–Hindus participated with their Hindu brothers and sisters in the celebration, and with greater fanfare. It would therefore be correct to say that all Guyanese of all ethnicities look forward to Diwali as they do to Christmas.

The festival indeed became larger, and the associated events and activities - such as the Motorcade and the

Ms. Diwali contests - became welcome additions.

It is noteworthy that the festival, which is dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, signifies the triumph/victory of good over evil; and that towards that end, our Hindu brothers and sisters would clean their houses and temples, giving them a new and clean appearance, for they believe that Diwali brings in new beginnings with new hopes and aspirations.

Under the PPP/C Government, Diwali holds greater significance for Guyanese. While the festival reflects the broad outlook of a multi-religious society, the distribution and sharing of delicacies and the exchanging of gifts and greetings reflect a stronger social bonding in our society, and make our country a stronger and more united place in which to live.

Diwali and its related

events and activities communicate more practical lessons that are intended to illuminate our lives and allow us to deal amicably with our fellow Guyanese on a daily basis. And so, as we celebrate Diwali annually, we must continue to emphasize the message and the value of the festival: truth and goodness triumphing over darkness.

Let the diyas illuminate our minds and hearts, and teach us how to interact and live harmoniously with each other every day of our lives.

Let us open not only our doors, but our hearts, so that we see a fellow Guyanese as a human being, and not an Indo-Guyanese or an AfroGuyanese, or Amerindian or Chinese or Portuguese or Dougla.

We have a challenge to keep the light of Diwali shining, and to get it even brighter. It is a challenge to ensure we relegate and ex-

ile to the abyss of History those who work to create divisions within our society and seek to destroy the progress we have made as a nation under the PPP/C. We must not allow them to succeed. We must banish into the archives and cesspit of oblivion - where they belong - those who seek to tamper with, and destroy, our democracy, which we achieved at tremendous sacrifice.

Let’s use the occasion of Diwali to promote unity and harmony among our people: to heal wounds, to remove the walls of disharmony, and to help in fostering national unity.

Happy Diwali to all!

Dear Editor, I have recently been heartened by the efforts of the authorities to effect safe energy production by the supply of solar energy units to various areas, although I feel that we need to further make use of this by introducing these to the households via panels on their rooftops, as well as industrial and commercial units. This would not only contribute to lower energy costs, but would also help the power company to stop or lessen the need for blackouts, which have been especially bothersome in recent times.

What I think should also be energetically pursued in this effort at environmental protection is the proper disposal of garbage, which we all know to be continually polluting our surroundings.

It is so disgusting and disappointing to see plastic and

salvation friends here", would position themselves at our international ports of entry to receive them. These were the persons who were trafficking poor hapless Haitians into Brazil for subhuman services.

The point I would like to establish here is that there is no comparison between the two groups; one group represents the inhumane trafficking of souls, while the other group is our own people returning home.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Efforts at environmental Diwali celebration in Guyana protection

Norman Whittaker, Deputy Chairman, Local Government Commission Former Minister of Local Government & Regional Development

Cost Oil Audits and the Petroleum...

metal containers piled up in our communities, contributing to the wastage of our natural resources and also being unhealthy and unsightly.

I have previously advoated for our garbage to be disposed of properly by separation into various categories: recyclable items, which would tremendously benefit our manufacturers in the reuse of these items; paper, and other combustibles, which are disposed of by burning and placing into garbage sites; and other household waste, which can be turned into compost.

I sincerely hope that the relevant authorities seriously consider this, and so make an exceptional approach to this means of environmental protection.

Yours truly, Roy Paul

FROM PAGE 4

Annex C Section 1.5 of the Petroleum Agreement (2016) prescribes the scope of the Audit and Inspection Rights of the Government.

Specifically, Section 1.5 (a) states that… “for the purposes of auditing, the Minister may audit, examine, and verify…all charges and credits relating to the Contractor’s activities under the Agreement, and all books of accounts, accounting entries, material records and inventories, vouchers, payrolls, invoices and any other documents, correspondence, and records necessary to audit and verify the charges and credits”.

Based on my interpretation, “records and inventories and any records necessary to conduct the audit” includes the production data, which forms a substantive part of the Petroleum operations.

Additionally, I have noted that there is a view that there is no penalty for

breaches that are uncovered pursuant to the audit exercise, that are likely to impact the Government’s share of profit oil. Contrary to this view, Annex C Section 1.5 (b) states that “all adjustments from an audit agreed to by Contractor and the Minister conducting the audit shall be reflected promptly in the accounts by the Contractor, and any consequential adjustments in Crude Oil entitlements shall also be made promptly.

This provision goes on to state that “In the event that an audit claim by the Minister is not settled to the Minister’s satisfaction by the Contractor’s reply, as provided for above, the Contractor shall be entitled to recover any disputed amounts pending final resolution of the claim. However, any subsequent adjustments in the Minister’s share of Profit Oil following resolution of the claim shall be repaid with

interest, at the agreed interest rate, as first claim from Contractor’s share of future profit oil. In the event that the Contractor’s share of profit oil is insufficient to provide for the Minister’s extra entitlement including interest, the Contractor shall promptly make an equivalent payment in United States dollars to the Minister”.

Considering the foregoing provision at Annex C Section 1.5 (b), this means that in relation to the current disputed US$214 million, whenever that matter is settled through the appropriate channel provided for in the Petroleum Agreement, if, following the final settlement, the Government share of profit oil has to be adjusted upwards, an agreed interest rate shall apply. Effectively, in this circumstance, the application of an interest rate is a form of penalty.

Concluding Remarks

In accordance with the provisions in the Petroleum Agreement that governs the audit and inspection rights of the Government, together with the provisions contained in Articles 9, 23, 31 and Annex C Section 1.2, 1.5, the Contractor is contractually obligated to supply the auditors with production data and any other information and/or documentation requested by the auditors, in order to properly conduct the audit and inspection exercise on behalf of the Government.

Finally, with respect to penalties, the application of an agreed interest rate to the settlement of any disputed amounts to the Government’s share of profit oil is effectively a form of penalty, which is provided for in the Petroleum Agreement.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

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(Sign on) Inspiration Time Diwali East Bank Motorcade Evening News (RB) Stop Suffering Movie - The Monkey King (2023) Indian Movie - OMG: Oh My God! (2012) Movie - Signed, Sealed, Delivered for Christmas (2014) Movie - Crater (2023) Explained Payless Power Hour Evangelistic Hour Hepzibah The Evening News Movie - Klaus (2019) Stand-up Comedy Movie - Expend4bles (2023) Sign off

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

Foundation ◄

Page

Test Questions

BY WALT WHITMAN CONTINUED FROM FRIDAY

8 The efflux of the soul is happiness, here is happiness, I think it pervades the open air, waiting at all times, Now it flows unto us, we are rightly charged.

Here rises the fluid and attaching character, The fluid and attaching character is the freshness and sweetness of man and woman, (The herbs of the morning sprout no fresher and sweeter every day out of the roots of themselves, than it sprouts fresh and sweet continually out of itself.)

Toward the fluid and attaching character exudes the sweat of the love of young and old, From it falls distill’d the charm that mocks beauty and attainments, Toward it heaves the shuddering longing ache of contact.

9 Allons! whoever you are come travel with me!

Traveling with me you find what never tires.

Materials

Transparent glass bangles Craft board Craft knife Pencil Clear adhesive glue Beads Candle

Instructions

Step 1: Select transparent glass bangles for this

project. The selected bangles should be of the same size for each candle holder.

Take a piece of craft board and place a bangle on it. Use pencil to trace the inner circle of the bangle.

Step 2: Use x-acto knife to cut out the traced circle from the craft board.

Step 3: Place the cut-out circle inside the bangle (the one used for tracing the circle) and apply clear adhesive

glue around the side to join the board cut out with the bangle.

Step 4: Now start adding more bangles, one on the top of the other one to create the candle holder. Use clear adhesive glue to join the bangles.

Step 5: Keep adding bangles until reaching the required height for the candle holder. Mix and match different coloured bangles.

Step 6: Add final decorations to your Diwali candle holder by adding beads to the top open end. Add more decorative items if you want to. Now place a candle inside the holder and light up the candle!

Enjoy! You have now completed our bangle-based Diwali candle holder! Isn’t it pretty?! (redtedart.com)

The earth never tires, The earth is rude, silent, incomprehensible at first, Nature is rude and incomprehensible at first, Be not discouraged, keep on, there are divine things well envelop’d, I swear to you there are divine things more beautiful than words can tell.

Allons! we must not stop here, However sweet these laid-up stores, however convenient this dwelling we cannot remain here, However shelter’d this port and however calm these waters we must not anchor here, However welcome the hospitality that surrounds us we are permitted to receive it but a little while.

To be continued

WORD SEARCH

7 Govt looking for another partner to fast-track natural gas development – VP Jagdeo NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– says not pleased with current pace

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s Guyana moves to develop a National Gas Strategy, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has noted that now is the time for the country to move swiftly in developing this resource, which has a small window as the world transitions from fossil fuel.

“This is the appropriate time to develop the gas resources given what is happening globally. There may still be a window given this enhanced global demand and the recognition that gas will have to be a transitional fuel…So given that, we have to move swiftly on this matter,” Jagdeo stated during a press conference on Thursday.

Consequently, he noted that the Government will further engage ExxonMobil, which along with its partners Hess Corporation and CNOOC Limited is producing oil in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana where at least two commercial gas fields have been found.

However, the Vice President pointed out that the Government is not pleased with the pace at which the development of gas is moving and is looking at another partner.

“Moving swiftly means getting ExxonMobil at the table [and] getting maybe another partner who will try to develop this industry and who wants to push it faster than Exxon. We’re not pleased with the pace at which they want to approach the development of the gas assets. I think they’re more interested in oil and so, my personal assessment is that they’re not treating our desire to monetise the gas assets with the same sense of urgency as they are with moving the projects to produce more oil,” he stressed, Only last week, the

Government released the draft National Gas Monetisation Strategy to the public for their feedback.

The aim is to simultaneously work on finalising the strategy while getting comments from the public, thus saving time. The deadline for the submission of comments from the public is November 14, 2023.

The Government has already made it clear that its goal is to find the best option to monetise its gas resources.

According to the Vice President, after the finalisation of the strategy, the Government would like to nudge the gas development process along, and bringing in another partner will help to underwrite some of the expenses and the risks associated with monetising the gas.

“Following the finalisation of the strategy, once the comments come in, we would then probably have to go out to RFP (Request For Proposals) to see other partners, who might be willing to work with us and Exxon to monetise the gas. It has to be tripartite because we own 50 per cent of the gas and Exxon owns 50 per cent. But if you don’t have a development [plan] then you can’t get any of the gas out…”

“We know how much gas we have out there. We know where they are. It’s now getting a partner to move on it, make sure we capitalise on this window of opportunity, and then we will go through an internal process of seeing, with of course the partners, what yields the maximum value-added to the country’s benefit? It is Liquified Natural Gas, is it an onshore facility – which we have one coming onstream, is it just having a vessel out there liquifying the gas and

shipping it directly, is the using it for fertiliser, should we use the gas to generate a lot of power and try to supply Brazil, should we use it to generate power and process bauxite… That’s what we’re hoping this strategy will do, bring up all the potential ideas that we can use it for,” VP Jagdeo posited.

In the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, some 17 trillion cubic feet of gas has been found, with the Pluma and Haimara wells being proven gas fields.

The Government is planning to pipe the natural gas onshore for its gas-to-energy project in Wales, West Coast Demerara, where an Integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt power plant will be built.

With Guyana seeking to develop the infrastructure to transport and store gas, a pertinent question will be capital costs. According to the draft gas strategy, the Government will be seeking to attract private funding for the gas infrastructure.

It was pointed out that gas transmission pipelines usually require Government investment in the early stages. When it comes to domestic gas and power projects, the strategy pointed out that initial Government investment is particularly in countries with minimal existing gas infrastructure.

The strategy notes, however, that once the sector is more developed and private companies have the capacity, then the Government’s direct participation in these projects may be reduced and the projects themselves privatised.

“Infrastructure investments such as gas transmission pipelines and gas distribution systems typically require initial Government

An artist's impression of the Gas-to-energy project

investment, particularly in countries with minimal existing infrastructure. When the sector and regulations are more developed, private companies can build and operate whole integrated systems.”

“At which point the Government participation may be reduced to regulation and the collection of taxes and fees. As projects for which Government has provided the initial investment near the point of becoming economically self-sustaining, there is then the opportunity for the Government to divest the project through privatisation,” the document states.

One benefit of this, according to the strategy, is for

the State to avoid the risks and debts, as well as diversifying the investment in the sector. It was noted that private investment is necessary considering Stabroek Block operators ExxonMobil and its partners, as they produce oil from the floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels.

“GoG will seek to attract private funding for the timely and cost-effective development of its gas infrastructure to avoid the large upfront capital required to develop such projects and eliminate the risk associated with the debt infrastructure given uncertainty related to the revenue streams required for repayment.”

“Additionally, by diversi-

fying the participants in the gas value chain and securing private investment, the GoG will avoid significant capital charges into the cost bank through the current PSC structure, which will significantly accelerate revenues to the GoG given the current upstream plans and FPSO deployment by the Stabroek Consortium,” the strategy states.

The strategy meanwhile noted that generally, power generation and electric distribution projects are initiated by the Government. It noted, however, that some power generation projects, such as Independent Power Producers (IPPs), are done with private participation.

(G-8)

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Short Boss” to be sentenced for 2nd killing

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Confessed killer Travis Evans

wenty-eight-yearold Travis Evans, also known as "Short Boss," chose to enter a guilty plea before Demerara High Court Judge Jo Ann Barlow for the unlawful killing of 46-year-old legal clerk Gregory Frank.

During his arraignment on Thursday, he acknowledged that he killed Frank at Kuru Kururu, SoesdykeLinden Highway, between July 31 and August 2, 2018, during a robbery. He will

be sentenced on November 28 when probation and other social reports will be presented.

Frank's body was discovered lying in his Lot 686 Kuru Kururu home on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, with marks of violence to the head. All of his possessions were taken, and his house had been broken into.

An autopsy revealed that Frank died of asphyxiation from a compression injury to his neck that was made worse by physical trauma to his head.

Life sentence for execution-style killing

Judge Sandil Kissoon sentenced Evans to life in prison in April 2021 for the August 2, 2018, shooting death of 21-year-old Ronsley Clarke outside a Sophia, Greater Georgetown party.

Evans had chosen to enter a plea to the lesser offense of manslaughter after being first charged with the

“Leather” remanded for Sand Hills Backdam murder

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27-year-old miner from Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) was earlier this week remanded to prison after he was charged with the murder of Sherman Phillips.

Appearing before Magistrate Crystel Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for the capital offence was Sean Lindore aka “Leather”. He was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge.

The matter was adjourned to December 28.

According to reports, Phillips called “Sunno”, 4, was viciously chopped, allegedly by Lindore on October 8, 2023, during a land dispute at Sand Hill Backdam, Cuyuni River.

Phillips supposedly accused Lindore and another man of stealing a piece of his land.

Murder accused Sean Lindore After that, there was a fight that culminated with Lindore and his alleged accomplice repeatedly chopping Phillips. Phillips subsequently passed away from his wounds while in the hospital.

The suspected accomplice of Lindore is still wanted by the Police.

Benefits…

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Dead: Gregory Frank

Dead: Ronsley Clarke

capital crime of murder. He must serve for a minimum of 25 years before being paroled.

The now dead Clarke, a mason, was gunned down outside a party in the presence of his girlfriend.

Guyana Times understands that Evans and Clarke were known to each other and reportedly had a disagreement about a month prior, while they were at an event in Sophia.

On the day in question, Clarke was in the company of his girlfriend, Alesha Thomas at the C Field Sophia main access road when Evans was seen “chipping” into the said party.

The man quickly drew a small silver pistol from his jacket, and before an alarm could have been raised, he discharged three rounds in Clarke’s direction.

Two of the bullets struck the now dead man – one to a right rib and one to the right side of his upper back. The gunman then quickly made

his escape in an unknown direction while the patrons at the party ran for cover.

The Police were called to the scene, and Clarke was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation but was pronounced dead on arrival.

3 years for armed robbery

Also in 2018, a High Court Judge slapped Evans with a three-year jail term for robbing a woman at knifepoint. He pleaded guilty to the indictment which stated that on October 30, 2010, in Demerara, whilst being armed with a knife, he robbed Marlyn Kissoon of $650,500.

The second charge read that during the said period, he engaged in sexual penetration with the same woman without her consent. He is yet to be tried for the sexual offence. Additionally, Evans was among several inmates who escaped from the Lusignan Prison in October 2018.

Juvenile gets $150K bail for killing East Canje peer

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teenager was on Friday granted bail in the sum of $150,000 for the murder of Shawn Persaud called “Buckman”, 17, of Betsy Ground, East Canje, Berbice.

The 17-year-old appeared at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Peter Hugh, where he was not required to plea to the indictable charge.

Police Prosecutor, Lance Corporal Vedesh Jattan objected to the teenager being granted bail on the basis that the accused had given a caution statement to the Police in which he admitted to stabbing Persaud with a pair of scissors during a fight.

The prosecutor told the court that the file was incomplete and that the Police were waiting on an autopsy report and a report from the Child Care and Protection Agency is outstanding.

The teen, who was accompanied by an aunt at the court, told the court that his

Murdered: 17-year-old Shawn Persaud

father is deceased and his mother, who is unemployed, suffers from a hearing impediment.

The matter has been transferred to the Reliance Magistrate’s Court and comes up again on November 17. Persaud was stabbed on November 4, at Adelphi Village, East Canje, after which he was pronounced dead on arrival at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital.

…for Govt workers

n our dear ole Mudland, Govt workers were never just…well… Govt workers!! They were a strategic asset to the group in office - to maintain power over the masses. The colonial Brits carefully created a governance structure with a backbone of whites - brought out from “home” - supported by colonials closely identifying with their interests. These were generally the “coloured” offsprings from the dalliances between whites who’d formed misalliances with local mistresses of African or mixed origins. After the freed Africans began educating themselves, some of them were co-opted into this localcoloured comprador class.

With the split of the PPP - engineered by the colonials, using the ambitious Burnham as their most willing tool - Government workers aligned with him against Jagan’s mostly Indian upstarts knocking at the door to get the coveted “govt wuk”!! And so it was before independence, and so it remained afterward: the Government workforce – called Civil Servants – joined by teachers, were a special lot who received inducements to support the Govt. They walked off their jobs in 1962 when half of G/town was torched -and struck in 1963 to precipitate even more widespread civil violence that led to Jagan and the PPP’s ouster.

It wasn’t surprising, therefore, when the PPP eventually returned to office in 1992 - after 28 years in the political wilderness - they were more than a tad leery about Government workers’ proclivities! Their challenge was to find ways of getting them at least not to sabotage Government initiatives!! Now, in the fag end of PNC’s rule under Hoyte - forced into an IMF program because of Burnham’s unsustainable debt - Hoyte was ordered to reduce the Public Service, and thousands were fired.

The PPP nixed that program - hoping they’d earn some brownie points – but were sorely disappointed when those same workers came out in a crushing strike in 1999, and they were forced into granting a 36% increase in salaries – even though the kitty was dry!!

And that’s been the pattern ever since: truculent demands on PPP governments for salary increases, totally unrelated to, say, productivity increases that’s now the norm across the globalized world to be competitive.

When the Opposition PNC and AFC campaigned in the leadup to the 2015 elections – which they won – they promised a 50% salary increase to Public Servants and teachers. But in the inimitable words of ex-Pres Ramotar, they got “Larwah”!! Yet they kept supporting them, as their unions sold them down the river!

After 2020, the PPP struck a tempered approach to Government workers by offering solid annual retroactive salary increases averaging 8% - coupled with bonuses – that made the Christmas Season even more festive.

Pres Ali’s ensuring this year’s gonna be no exception!! …from miscarriage??

Like most Guyanese, your Eyewitness was particularly horrified by the gruesome tale of that Sharima Gopaul and her lover, who murdered then chopped up her own daughter at Leonora; stuffed her into a suitcase, then dumped it into Madewini Creek. The kid was a high achiever at the Common Entrance, then at Queen’s.

What kind of mother would do that to her own child??

Why?? Just because she wanted to experience the thrill of an affair with a married man??

Anyhow, your Eyewitness was pleased that, at the trial, the lover, Jarvis, was sentenced to 96 years while Sharima was sentenced to 106 years behind bars. Then, in what your Eyewitness considers to be a series of unfortunate reviews at different levels of the justice system, Jarvis was eventually freed and Sharima’s sentence was reduced to 25 years from her conviction in 2015. But to the shock of the nation, last week Sharima was freed!!

Now the GPS says it was a “miscalculation”, and she’s back behind bars!! …of jumbies?

Cemetery Road was supposed to’ve been completed last July, but it remains a mess. Min Edgehill had claimed “superstitions” – read jumbies – were scaring away workers. With all our religions, can’t we have Obeah; Jaaray or Tabeej wuk pon dem jumbies??

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

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

NEWS

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Your nation is behind you, rooting for your success” – President Ali assures UG graduands

By Feona Morrison

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali during a virtual message at the 57th convocation ceremony of the University of Guyana (UG), which took place on Friday at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) congratulated the more than 3000 graduates and reaffirmed that the nation is rooting for their success.

"Always remember that your nation is behind you, rooting for your success," was echoed by the President while urging them to use their newly acquired talents to transform Guyana into a modern,

Education Minister Priya Manickchand addressing the graduating class

emphasising that education is the secret to opening the door to success.

to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through your professional work, volunteering, or community engagement. A new Guyana awaits you and your contributions will be instrumental in shaping our nation's destiny.”

“Seize the moment, make the most of your education, and be the change-makers who will lead Guyana to even greater heights. Our nation needs individuals like you who are ready to share the path ahead. I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion and make us all proud.

“The path to progress and

Scenes from the second day of convocation exercises

affluent, and forward-thinking nation.

The Head of State em-

However, President Ali warned the graduating class

phasised that Guyana's potential is limitless because of the discovery of enormous oil deposits. The nation's economy is modernising, diversifying, and expanding at a rate never seen before, opening up chances for everyone to participate, he noted.

"We need you, our talented graduates, to actively engage in fashioning our nation's future," he added while urging them to make smart use of their education.

He told them that their experience at the University of Guyana has given them a strong foundation, as well as knowledge and skills while

that their degrees and diplomas do not ensure success.

“Certification alone does not guarantee success. You need the right attitude and values if you are to test the limits of your ability,” he advised.

“In this regard, I encourage you to rediscover your passion and pursue it with perseverance and a willingness to adapt to change. I encourage you to be lifelong learners, to stay curious, to embrace change, and to be part of innovation and innovative ideas.”

“Seek opportunities also

prosperity has been laid. As you step into this exciting future, the opportunities that lie ahead are as vast as the horizon itself,” President Ali continued. Thus, he told the graduates that now was their chance to shine and urged them to take advantage of the opportunity rather than wait

for it to present itself.

“Be rooted in your Guyanese-ness”

Education Minister Priya Manickchand, however, stated that she believes the graduates' achievements will encourage them to produce more in their respective fields.

President Dr Irfaan Ali congratulated the students on completing their respective programmes

She said that the goals and expectations for the growth of this relatively young country through the calibre of the people it produces shaped the institutional architecture of UG. “As you now take your place among the thousands who have successfully emerged, we can only hope that you will fully internalise and appreciate the binding responsibilities you now take on as children of Guyana’s soil,” Manickchand noted.

“As you now look across our highly diverse and complex landscape, I fully expect that you will do so through a different lens from when you entered. You are now charged with being problem solvers.

The cohort of intrepid, critical-minded trailblazers ushering in a new era of prosperity.”

As a people, Minister Manickchand explained that they are all too familiar with the longstanding challenges Guyana has faced in the areas of health, education, the

need for sustainable infrastructure, and the adequacy of food, water, and energy, to name a few.

But through the graduates' commitment to professional service to this nation, “We will be able to address these challenges, devise a new dispensation and future reali-

ty,” she noted.

“It is your innovation and proles that will enable us to embrace these changes with confidence. Most of all, the quality of our citizens is our

value systems and the appropriate disposition to make a significant difference in the world.”

This year’s convocation ceremonies are extremely

greatest asset. I charge you to ulitise the knowledge and skills you have acquired to advance our common humanity.”

“The Guyana we know and love is a compendium of shared struggles and accomplishments. We must now devote our efforts towards achieving our collective objections within a context of greater comradery and passion for each other’s reality.

We must find ways of engaging our fellow citizens within an environment of trust and goodwill towards each other.”

As they find their calling in this world, the Education Minister implored the class to share their talents widely and freely and “be rooted in your Guyanese-ness” while being

special as the university is proudly celebrating its sixtieth anniversary under the theme “Consistently We Rise, Changing the World in Infinite Ways”. The 2023 convocation ceremonies for graduates of the university’s Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown Campus started on Thursday and will conclude today at the NCC. The convocation for UG’s Tain Campus will also be held on November 18 on the university lawns at Tain Settlement, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

So far, the ceremonies have been blended with the large majority of the graduates attending face-to-face and the remaining participating virtually.

Also, this year, UG will

citizens of the world.

“Guyanese can be found on every corner of the globe and as such, you must carve your niche with the sure knowledge and confidence of having a solid foundation and strong

confer honorary doctoral degrees on 10 outstanding Guyanese in various areas of expertise during these special 60th-anniversary ceremonies.

A portion of these awards have already been given out.

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Oil & gas among interests to Republic Bank honours top be discussed during Canadian NGSA, CSEC RightStart account holders MPs' visit to Guyana

Rhéal Éloi Fortin, MP

Alexandra Mendès, MP

s Canada continues to strengthen bilateral relations with Guyana, one Senator and three Members of Parliament from Canada are expected to visit Guyana from November 13 – 18 as part of engagements through the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

The team of parliamentarians include Alexandra Mendès, MP, Assistant Deputy Speaker, Chair of the CPA Canadian Branch; The Hon Salma Ataullahjan, Senator, Canadian Branch Executive Committee Member; Rhéal Éloi Fortin, MP, Canadian Branch Member and Robert Kitchen, MP, Canadian Branch Executive Committee Member.

During their one-

week visit, the delegation will be involved in several high-level engagements, including meeting with the Prime Minister, Brigadier Retired Mark Phillips, engagements with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, and meetings with several parliamentarians including Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton.

This visit will give the Canadian delegates the opportunity to advance relations with the Parliament Office and Members of Parliament from Guyana and exchange views on common areas of interest, such as climate change, oil and gas opportunities, Indigenous peoples, and a paperless Parliament.

The Canadian Branch of the CPA has been actively working with Commonwealth partners

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Senator Salma Ataullahjan

2023 RightStart top performers with Managers of Republic Bank

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Robert Kitchen, MP

in the Caribbean and globally to encourage “twinning” (partnerships) with territorial legislatures.

The objective of twinning is to provide mutual capacity-building support and technical assistance and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices between Canadian and Guyanese parliamentarians.

epublic Bank (Guyana) Limited on Thursday recognised the exceptional achievements of young scholars at the 2023 RightStart Academic Achievement Awards at Cara Lodge Hotel in Georgetown.

The awards ceremony celebrated the outstanding account holders who excelled at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC).

This year marked an expansion of Republic Bank's awards programme with the inclusion of awards to the top five account holders who conquered CAPE. Over the years, the bank has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nurturing and honouring academic excellence. The bank's awards programme also encompasses annual recognition of the coun-

try's top performers at the University of Guyana's Faculty of Social Sciences, Turkeyen Campus, and the most outstanding graduating student at the Tain Campus.

The bank's commitment to embracing a broader perspective on educational excellence underscores its dedication to supporting and encouraging the diverse talents and aspirations of Guyana's youth.

General Manager Credit, Venus Frith in his congratulatory remarks, reminded the awardees that their academic success is not just an achievement but the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He emphasised that their accomplishments serve as a beacon of hope for the future, inspiring others to pursue limitless possibilities through determination and a pursuit of excellence. He en-

couraged the awardees to maintain their passion for learning, as education is a lifelong journey.

These initiatives underline Republic Bank's belief that education is the cornerstone of progress, the catalyst for change, and the path to a brighter future. The bank's commitment to nurturing the educational development of young talent is not merely a corporate responsibility but a passionate dedication to uplifting communities and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.

Each awardee received a special token which was deposited into their respective RightStart accounts.

The 2023 RightStart Academic Achievement Awards is a testament to Republic Bank's unwavering commitment to educational excellence and the empowerment of the youth of Guyana.

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Teen develops math competition to make learning fun E

fforts are being made to create an interest in math with the aim of making it fun. On Thursday, the New Amsterdam Town Council hosted a Mathematics competition for primary schools within the township as part of a series of events to celebrate Town Day. The inaugural Math Olympia was intended to test the aptitude of students in Grade Five.

Even though it was held under the Town Day umbrella, it was the brainchild of 16-year-old Quacy Issacs Jr, who on Wednesday copped the best graduating student’s prize for mathematics at President’s College.

Issacs Jr, who also won awards for being the best graduating student in Information

Quacy Issacs Jr presented the first-place trophy to Learners Academy

Technology (IT), Science, and Natural Science also walked away with the Principal’s Award.

He was happy to see the efforts students made in answering questions during the competition. “Hopefully this event can continue again and again...” he said.

His father, Quacy Issacs Snr, is hopeful that this initiative forms a part of the list of events to celebrate Town Day while noting that he is proud of his son’s idea.

“For all the years, most of the focus has been on English, so we decided to try math.

Then my son being a math student who excelled at CSEC, decided that we were going to have a Math Olympia.”

The Councillor added that persons seldomly put much

emphasis on the subject because it is perceived to be difficult.

“Everybody says math is hard so they focus on other subject areas. So, the idea was to encourage students and prove that math is not as difficult as some may presume.”

However, at the end of the competition, Learners Academy walked away with the winning trophy ahead of Alleyne’s Academy. St Aloysius Primary School was awarded the third-place trophy.

A total of six schools participated in the event which was divided into three segments knowledge, comprehension, and application. The top performer was Nkosana Smith of Learners Academy.

14 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GHDS Reg 2 Diwali Motorcade

Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir cops 1st prize in large category – Airy Hall wins in small category

GHDS President Dr Vindhya Persaud addressing the gathering

A depiction of Mother Lakshmi

By Raywattie D eonarine

C

reativity was at its best as hundreds of Essequibians con-

saw people coming together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.

Floats from vari-

The floats were breathtaking and showcased the various forms of Hindu gods and goddesses, espe-

who beautifully portrayed their chosen theme.

This float outshone the 15 other well-decked-out floats, thus copping the first place in the large category while the Golden Fleece Mandir copped the second position.

In addition, the Airy Hall Mandir was adjudged the winner in the small category followed by Affiance Vishnu Mandir in second and Annandale Mandir in third.

Consolation prizes were awarded to Bounty Hall Mandir, Better Success Mandir, and New Road Vishnu Mandir.

Addressing the audience, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic

The Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir float copped the first prize

The Airy Hall Mandir placed first in the small category

The Annandale Mandir copped third in the small category

verged to witness one of the most spectacular Diwali motorcades on Thursday evening.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s (GHDS) event definitely brought out the creative skills of members of youth groups, mandirs, and even the communities. The evening

ous mandirs, including Queenstown, Affiance, Huis T' Dieren, Reliance, Bounty Hall, Golden Fleece, Spring Garden, Siriki-Pomeroon, and Adventure assembled at Affiance before making their mesmerising journey to the township of Anna Regina.

cially the radiant Mother Lakshmi, the embodiment of light and prosperity that is closely associated with the festival.

Another captivating depiction was that of Lord Rama, accompanied by his wife Sita, his brother Lakshmana, and the devoted Hanuman, illustrating the legendary tale behind the genesis of Diwali.

The young people who adorned these floats undoubtedly did an exceptional job of bringing these divine beings to life as they travelled along the main access road, thus illuminating their path accompanied by the sound of Bhagans and chants.

One float that stole the crowd's hearts was created by the talented youths and members of the Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir, featuring several children, teens, and adults

The Golden Fleece Mandir copped the second spot in the large category

Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud congratulated the Essequibo Praant and Nawajawan for bringing the characters to life in such a spectacular and meaningful way.

She highlighted that the event reminds Guyanese to keep the divine light

shining within us, both physically and symbolically. She also challenged the organisers to increase the participation next year.

Further, Dr Persaud thanked the residents for their continuous support and extended Diwali greeting to them.

Meanwhile, there was a

rich cultural presentation that featured dances, tassa drumming, songs, and dramatic poetry.

Dances were performed by popular dance troupes Dharmic Swarswattie Dance Academy, the Khandhiya, and the Dancing Devas among other dance troupes.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Winners of Caribbean Statistics Day competitions awarded

Some of the winners flanked by Bureau of Statistics and Caricom representatives

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he Bureau of Statistics on Friday awarded the winners of its recently hosted Art and Essay Competitions in observance of Caribbean Statistics Day 2023.

These competitions ran from September 5 to October 16, 2023, and formed part of the efforts of the Bureau to increase

tion and layout, and presentation. A total of 17 entries were received for this category.

Nandanie Ram of the Lusignan Learning Centre copped the first-place prize – a tablet computer; Saira Seeram of Dharmic Rama Krishna Primary School copped the second-place prize – a gift card and

and they were judged based on focus/main point, support, organisation and format, language use, style and conventions, and originality.

Rhesa Langevine of Queen’s College copped the first-place prize – a tablet computer; Shazim Alli of the Friendship Secondary School copped the sec-

Four of the six winners of the Competitions. From left: Eziel Robinson, Nandanie Ram, Rhesa Langevine and Shazim Alli

Saira Seeram receiving her 2nd place prize for the Art competition from Deputy Chief Statistician (Ag), Vanessa Profitt

data literacy among the school-aged population. It was a close collaboration with the Caricom Regional Statistics programme.

In the Art Competition, students aged 9 to 11 were tasked with illustrating how data can be used to develop their community.

The entries were judged based on creativity, interpretation of theme, skills and techniques, composi-

Tasmina Kazim of the Academy of Excellence took home the third-place prize - a backpack with school and art supplies.

However, the essay competition targeted students between the ages of 12-14 and they were tasked with writing an essay about the importance of the Guyana National Population and Housing Census. A total of 27 entries were received

ond-place prize – a smartphone and Eziel Robinson of St Joseph High School took home the third-place prize – a shopping voucher.

During the prizegiving ceremony hosted at the Bureau’s Head office, Chief Statistician, Errol La Cruez highlighted the important role the organisation plays in not only gathering, analysing, and sharing data, but also ensuring that persons appreciate the value of data and statistics.

As such, he noted that these competitions contributed to the Bureau’s efforts towards ensuring students connect with the work of the organisation.

In his remarks, La Cruez urged the students to embrace numbers, since they paint detailed pictures. He added that when facts and figures are collected, better-informed decisions can be made.

He impressed upon the students, the importance of Mathematics and the need to put special effort into acquiring these skills since this critical skill set

will continue to increase in demand.

Meanwhile, he congratulated the winners and thanked them for their participation in the com-

Tasmina Kazim receiving her 3rd place prize for the Art competition from Communications Officer Joel Vogt

petitions.

The Bureau also hosted a Data Analysis Competition in observance of Caribbean Statistics Day, which saw the

University of Guyana Students tasked with analysing a data set and producing a report. The winners of that competition will be announced shortly.

16 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 5000 ECD allottees to access house lots by year-end

Plantation Hope, ECD being developed

Minister Croal and contractors

critical component of the Government’s housing drive is to ensure and increase occupancy, in schemes across the country. Equal to this, is ensuring the necessary infrastructure works are in place and making these lands accessible.

On Friday, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal conducted a series of visits and on-site meetings with contractors responsible for the infrastructure development works that are ongoing in a number of schemes along the East Coast of Demerara.

The schemes visited include Plantation Hope, Plantation Enterprise and Non Pareil, Good Hope, Lusignan Phases 1 & 2, Two Friends, Success, and Le Ressouvenir.

Having had a first-hand look and being able to inspect the ongoing works, Minister Croal called on the contractors to be mindful of their deadline, as thousands of citizens are eagerly await-

tors also took the opportunity to raise the challenges they face, even as they push to meet deadlines. Some of the contractors also reported that despite the minor setbacks on some of their project sites, they are on track to meet the year-end deadline.

Minister Croal in August revealed that three years of governance under the Irfaan Ali-led Administration has seen the delivery of over 24,000 house lots to Guyanese. Moving closer towards fulfilling its manifesto promise of 50,000 house lots in five years, the Minister had revealed, “On the eve of our third anniversary in Government, 24,116 house lots were delivered to date.”

Compared to the APNU/ AFC’s delivery of 7534 lots in its entire five-year term, Croal had remarked that 1987 was distributed as a ‘gimmick’ leading up to the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

A breakdown of Government’s distribu-

A

ing access to their lands.

The ongoing works in these schemes include land clearing, and installation of road networks, drainage, bridges, and pipe networks.

Overall, the Minister noted his satisfaction with the pace at which work is progressing. He told media representatives present that ever so often, persons do not have a sense of appreciation for the works being undertaken in the housing sector.

“We are often flacked that we are not doing enough but our figure will show that on the East Coast of Demerara alone, more than $12 billion is being spent on infrastructure works, and this is to ensure that the 5000-plus person who received lands in these areas can access their lands and start construction.”

The $12 billion is being spent to develop a combined total of approximately 923 acres of land and in most instances, virgin lands, the Minister pointed out.

Meanwhile, the contrac-

Shared responsibility: Eradicating Hunger in Latin America, Caribbean

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he figures published by the latest Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2023 are cause for great concern.

The document is clear: hunger continues to significantly affect Latin America and the Caribbean.

The reasons are varied; consequences of the pandemic, armed conflicts, climate crisis, economic slowdown, rising food inflation, and income inequality have all generated a difficult scenario that requires immediate action.

Our Region has an opportunity that we must not miss. Only with stability and peace will it be possible to achieve development and resolve food insecurity.

According to the Regional Overview 2023, although Latin America and the Caribbean register a slight drop of 0.5% in hunger levels when compared to the previous measurement, it is essential to remember that, despite this progress, we are still 0.9 percentage points above the hunger levels of 2019, prior to the outbreak of COVID-19.

But hunger does not affect the Region uniformly. In South America, there was a reduction of 3.5 mil-

lion hungry people between 2021 and 2022, but there are still 6 million additional undernourished people compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, totalling XX million.

In Mesoamerica, the prevalence of hunger has barely changed, affecting 9.1 million people in 2022, representing 5.1%.

The situation is worrisome in the Caribbean, where 7.2 million people experienced hunger in 2022, with an alarming prevalence of 16.3% of the population. Between 2021 and 2022, hunger increased by 700,000 people, and compared to 2019, the increase was 1 million people, with Haiti being one of the most affected countries.

While hunger figures continue to concern us, overweight in children under five years of age continues to rise, exceeding the global estimate, and a quarter of the adult population lives with obesity.

FAO recognises the urgency of addressing this issue and is committed to updating the CELAC FNS Plan for food and nutritional security. The recent Buenos Aires Declaration of the VII CELAC Summit reaffirmed the commitment of the 33

member states to food security, agriculture, and sustainable development.

This declaration emphasised the importance of updating the plan in accordance with the new international context and the challenges facing the Region, with the technical assistance of global organisations like FAO and regional organisations such as ECLAC, IICA, and ALADI, to achieve a comprehensive solution.

The update of the food plan takes into account national commitments related to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, evidence-based policies and good practices in the Region, providing a mechanism that contributes to the eradication of poverty, hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition.

Eradicating hunger is a shared responsibility, and together we must redouble our efforts to ensure that no citizen of Latin America and the Caribbean goes hungry. Food security is essential for the well-being of our communities and the sustainable development of the Region, and we must continue to work together, leaving no one behind. FAO is fully committed to this challenge.

tion reflected 719 in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), 5099 in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), 15,010 in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), 956 in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), 1254 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), 598 in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and 471 in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

He had pointed out that only three housing ar-

Work ongoing on infrastructure

eas were developed under the former Administration – sections of Peters Hall, Prospect and Providence.

Drawing contrast, the PPP/C Government has pushed aggressively to develop housing schemes in Onderneeming, Charity, Edinburgh, Cornelia Ida, Meten-Meer-Zorg, Anna Catherina, Stewartville, Great Diamond, Little

Diamond, Non Pareil, Enterprise, Hope, Cummings Lodge, Lusignan, Good Hope, De Endragt Golden Grove, Le Ressouvenir, La Reconnaissance, Blairmont, Shieldstown, Burma, Fort Ordnance, Number 75 Village, Number 76 Village, Lethem, Amelia’s Ward, among several areas, excluding areas under the 2023 work programme.

USAID-Caricom partnership making “tangible difference” for Guyanese – US Ambassador

(from left to right) US Ambassador Nicole Theriot, USAID Regional Representative for Eastern and Southern Caribbean, Mervyn Farroe; and Caricom SG, Dr Carla Barnett

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longstanding partnership between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Caribbean Community (Caricom): to foster progress in key sectors, is making a key difference in the lives of Guyanese.

On Wednesday evening, USAID and Caricom celebrated their partnership at a reception at the Marriott Hotel held under the theme: Neighbours, Partners, Friends – Spotlight on Guyana. There, newly-appointed United States Ambassador Nicole Theriot used the opportunity to zero in on the sectors which are being supported to ensure a safe and secure Guyana.

“The partnership between USAID and Caricom demonstrates our shared commitment to fostering progress in Guyana. Our efforts in citizen security, juvenile justice, climate resilience, food security, and agriculture are making a tangible difference in the lives of the people we serve,” she declared.

The diplomat said that, through collaborative efforts with Caricom, several initiatives have been embarked on that touch upon the most pressing challenges facing societies. First and foremost, climate resilience

is an ever-pressing concern.

“With the support of Caricom, USAID is assisting Guyana in building resilience against the impacts of climate change. This includes sustainable land management, disaster preparedness, and the promotion of clean energy alternatives; ensuring the country is well-prepared to face the challenges of a changing climate,” she said.

On a similar note, the Ambassador outlined that food security and agriculture are the lifeblood of any nation. The partners, she added, are working diligently to bolster Guyana's agricultural sector, promoting sustainable farming practices and increasing access to nutritious food.

Another vital area of cooperation is the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBS), which addresses shared US-Caribbean security priorities to reduce illicit trafficking, increase citizen security, and prevent youth crime and violence.

“Whether it's by improving community policing, providing training to law enforcement, or supporting crime prevention programmes, our aim is to create a secure environment that allows our communities to prosper. The issue of juvenile justice is another area where USAID has

been actively engaged. Our programmes work to rehabilitate and reintegrate young offenders into society, offering them a second chance at a productive and fulfilling life,” Ambassador Theriot divulged.

During the Caricom anniversary celebrations this year, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the importance of being a good friend and partner.

Reflecting this sentiment, Theriot said the BidenHarris Administration has demonstrated a renewed commitment to the Caribbean Region and its people.

She indicated, “This was evident when new initiatives were announced at last year's Summit of the Americas. These initiatives were launched under the USCaribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030), which is the US Government's cornerstone for fostering regional climate adaptation, food security, and energy cooperation up to 2030.”

Meanwhile, Caricom Secretary General Dr Carla Barnett pointed out that this affiliation with the US Government has resulted in the alignment of the United States and Caricom to support common interests.

Dr Barnett shared with the gathering, “The Food Security Working Group has made commendable progress to support the reduction of the Region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025…I take this opportunity to commend the exceptional leadership of Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the President of Guyana, who leads within the community on agriculture, agriculture diversification, and food security on the Caricom Quasi Cabinet.”

NEWS

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PM highlights Guyana’s ambitious energy diversification plan at OLADE Meeting

The ongoing five-day OLADE Meeting

Prime Minister Mark Phillips addressing the meeting

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uyana’s ambitious energy diversification strategy that will revolutionise the nation’s energy landscape was highlighted by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips in his address at the 53rd Meeting of Ministers of the Latin American Energy Organisation (OLADE).

PM Phillips, who holds responsibility for the country’s energy sector, explained that the energy plan aligns with the objectives of the expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS2030), which seeks to bring greater economic and social development through a low-carbon development pathway that also addresses issues relating to climate change.

The Government, Phillips emphasised, is committed to achieving a low carbon economy and advancing the transition to renew-

able energy development, which is a national priority.

Renewable resources from the gas industry will also play a crucial role in diversifying the nation’s economy to ensure energy, food, and climate security.

“We are advancing a diversified energy supply matrix to cater for Guyana’s current energy needs and the rapid growth in demand anticipated in the medium and long term.”

Guyana’s energy matrix integrates hydropower, natural gas, solar, and wind resources, adding 500 megawatts (MW) of new generating capacity for residential and commercial users, in keeping with the Government’s pledge to ensure affordable, stable, and reliable energy.

The Guyanese Prime Minister further told the high-profile gathering about the progress in reviving

the 165 MW Amaila Falls Project, with new proposals and funding from the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund for solar farms amounting to 33 MW under the GUYSOL programme.

Guyana’s hinterland regions are not excluded, as the Administration is keen on delivering clean, renewable power to those residing in the hinterland regions.

These include the 19 solar PV-powered mini-grids that will benefit 3880 households and over 20,000 individuals.

“These mini-grids will contribute to essential social, healthcare, and education facilities, raising the nation’s overall installed solar capacity to more than 13 MW. A large-scale electrification project was also highlighted, which provides some 30,000 Solar PV Home Energy Systems for remote areas, to introduce renewable electricity to previously unserved homes, benefiting an estimated 136,863 individuals in 245 communities,” a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister disclosed.

The Prime Minister also explained that Guyana remains committed to energy integration and cooperation initiatives with neighbouring states, pointing to the regional energy collaboration between Guyana, Suriname, Brazil, and French Guiana.

The five-day OLADE meeting is taking place in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Duo plead guilty to trafficking over 2kg narcotics – 3rd person remanded after pleading not guilty

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duo pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking when they appeared at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

Robert Hinds of Levi Dam, Mount Sinai, New Amsterdam, and CJ Williams of Timmers Dam, Mount Sinai, appeared before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh where the charge was read to them.

The duo was reportedly spotted in a boat at Essendam Estate, Upper Berbice River on Thursday, acting in a suspicious manner, thus causing the Police to conduct a search which subsequently unearthed a total of 2314 grams of cannabis.

After entering a guilty plea, Magistrate Singh ordered a probation report on the duo before sentencing.

They were charged jointly.

Meanwhile, a third

person, Quron DeJonge of Baracara River, Canje River, who was also in the said boat, pleaded not guilty to possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

It is alleged that DeJonge had 418 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. He was remanded to prison.

The trio will return to court on January 10, 2024, when Hinds and Williams will be sentenced.

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Regional

Mexican officials find 123 Argentina retail prices seen slipping migrants trapped in trailer under double digits in October

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M

exican authorities have found 123 people from neighbouring countries trapped in a trailer in the central state of San Luis Potosi.

They include 34 children, Mexico's immigration agency said.

Most of those found in Matehuala, 600km (372 miles) north of Mexico City, were from Guatemala, Nicaragua and Honduras.

Officials did not provide details about where the migrants were heading, but many travel through the Americas hoping to reach the United States.

They were found after a local resident reported hearing cries from a locked trailer box, Mexico's National Migration Institute (INM) said, adding that they were being given food and medical assistance.

It also said they were being provided with accommodation until their situation is resolved.

Some of those found

Many of those travelling the route are reliant on organised crime gangs, and are vulnerable to kidnapping and extortion

were also from El Salvador, Ecuador and Cuba.

It is unclear if those found in the trailer are part of a 7000-strong migrant caravan currently making its way from southern Mexico to the United States, most of which are from Central and South America.

Many of those travelling the route are reliant on organised crime gangs, and are vulnerable to kidnapping and extortion.

Ahead of next year's election, US President Joe Biden

has come under attack, particularly from Republicans, for his handling of migration, with the situation at the USMexico border being most prominent.

US authorities have detained more than 2.2 million migrants along the US-Mexico border since last October.

The growing number of migrants in cities such as New York has become a challenge for the President who has faced intense criticism over his handling of the border. (BBC News)

rgentina's consumer prices likely rose by less than double digits in October, a Reuters poll showed on Friday, slowing down after hitting a three-decade high in September.

The poll, which surveyed 19 analysts, showed consumer prices increasing by 9.9% in the month, slowing from the 12.4% rise in August and 12.7% climb in September, though they warned the slowdown would be temporary.

The slowdown comes off the back of October's general elections, analysts said, with Economy Minister Sergio Massa posting a surprisingly strong first-place finish despite the country's deepening economic crisis and radical libertarian Javier Milei trailing close behind.

The two will head to a run-off vote on Nov 19.

"The election result was a victory for the peso, and that meant that inflation was not in the double digits," said economist Lucio Garay Mendez from local

A woman walking at the Mercado Central, the city's largest wholesale central market, which receives produce from the entire country, as Argentines face a daily race for deals as inflation soars above 100%, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, Argentina September 12, 2023

consulting firm EcoGo. "However, consumer prices are still going up quickly, especially considering the official exchange rate and Government controls."

Economy Minister Massa has defended the use of the peso, which has sharply depreciated against the US dollar amid the economic turmoil.

The tightly controlled official exchange rate was devalued to 350 pesos per

greenback in August, though it currently trades for nearly three times that on the informal parallel market.

Milei, meanwhile, has pushed to dollarise the economy and abolish the central bank.

Latin America's third-largest economy has one of the highest inflation rates in the world, with residents' purchasing power shrinking and poverty climbing. (Excerpt from Reuters)

we may have a negative growth rate in the third quarter," the bank's chief economist Adrian Armas said in a presentation.

The central bank in September slashed its growth forecasts for 2023 to 0.9% from the previously forecast 2.2%, a projection that now faces "downward pressure," said Armas.

The comments came a day after the bank lowered Peru's benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 7.00%, its third consecutive cut as the monetary authority eases borrowing costs in an effort to resuscitate the economy.

The economy could see a turnaround in the fourth quarter, Peru's Economy Minister said on Thursday while announcing a package of stimulus measures aimed at boosting investments, particularly in the country's critical mining sector.

The new measures are "fundamental" not just to attracting investment but also to recovering declining confidence within the business community, Armas said on Friday.

Peru's national statistics agency is scheduled to next report official GDP data on November 15.

(Reuters)

From sport to music, Chile’s Palestinian diaspora rallies Peru Central Bank signals possible 3rd to support Gaza straight quarter of GDP contraction

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hey dart across the football pitch in a blur of red, white, black and green, the colours of their jerseys echoing the Palestinian flags waving in the stands.

But the players of Club Deportivo Palestino are almost as far from Palestine as it is possible to be.

Located more than 13,000 kilometres (8200 miles) away, the football club finds its home in La Cisterna, a suburb of Santiago, Chile — a sign of the unique role the South American country plays in the Palestinian diaspora.

Chile is home to the largest Palestinian population outside of the Middle East, with approximately 500,000 citizens of Palestinian descent.

And as the latest war in Gaza unfolds, the rising death toll has hit close to home for

many Chileans, for whom Palestinian culture is threaded into everyday life.

“We’re all subjects of this story,” Chilean rapper and musician Ana Tijoux told Al Jazeera, as she reflected on the ongoing war. “We all have to stand up.”

The conflict began on October 7, when the armed group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing 1400 people and capturing hundreds more.

Ever since, Israel has led a bombing campaign against Gaza, the narrow Palestinian territory home to an estimated 2.3 million people. Supplies have been cut off. Hospitals have shut down. And more than 10,000 Palestinians have died in the blasts, with nowhere to go for safety.

Tijoux, a Latin Grammy

winner, has participated in one of the country’s largest pro-Palestinian rallies to date, a concert to raise funds for the remaining hospitals in Gaza and the West Bank.

The history of violence and displacement that Palestinians have faced resonates with Tijoux, who has Indigenous roots in Chile.

The visibility of Chile’s Palestinian community has in turn shaped the country’s foreign policy, particularly in recent weeks.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric has repeatedly expressed support for Palestinian human rights since his inauguration in 2022, even withdrawing the country’s ambassador to Israel in condemnation of the current military offensive in Gaza. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

P

eru's economy may have shrunk for a third straight quarter from July to September, the central bank's chief economist said on Friday, as the Andean nation struggles to claw its way out of a recession.

The world's No 2 copper producer slid into a technical recession earlier this year after two quarters of negative growth due to the adverse impacts of the El Nino weather phenomenon, lower private investment and lingering effects from earlier social conflicts.

"With the recent information, it is possible that

5.0 magnitude quake strikes Dominican In South America's Andes, a shrinking Republic near border with Haiti Lake Titicaca rings climate alarm bell

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he exposed cracked floors of parts of Lake Titicaca, South America's largest body of fresh water and the highest navigable lake in the world nestled amid the Andes mountains, are an alarming sight for local farmer Manuel Flores.

His crops are parched, nearby water wells have dried up amid a long spell of drought, and his livestock are struggling. Like many who live on or around the lake, he used to get around easily by boat. Now he walks across the

dried-up lake bed.

The lake, once seen as a deity by the pre-Columbian people that lived on its shores, is an important ecosystem for wildlife and a water source for millions of people, including in the city of El Alto, some 40 kilometers (25 miles) to the east.

But its water levels are now reaching record lows, worsened by the El Nino weather phenomenon that means less rain in the area, compounding a long dry spell and rare high temperatures.

Scientists say such extreme weather is becoming increasingly common globally because of climate change, which also intensifies the effects of El Nino.

"I am 50 years old. Never before has Lake Titicaca dried up like it is now. This affects us, because there is no more food for our livestock and we cannot travel by boat," said farmer Flores. "Now we have to walk and our crops no longer exist because it hasn't rained since last year."

(Excerpt from Reuters)

A

5.0 magnitude earthquake struck the northwest Dominican Republic on Friday near the border with Haiti.

The tremor occurred at a depth of 12 miles (19 kilometres) just west-northwest of Las Matas de Santa Cruz, according to the US Geological Survey.

Officials in the Dominican Republic said the quake was felt in the border town of Montecristi all the way south to the cap-

ital of Santo Domingo.

It was the strongest earthquake to hit the country this year, Dominican geologist Osiris de León said.

Jenrry Castro, mayor of the northwest town of Villa Vazquez, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that minor damage was reported in two schools. Products also fell off supermarkets’ shelves in the area, he said, adding that crews were inspecting all schools and municipal buildings in the town.

The quake occurred in an area that has become a flashpoint in an ongoing border dispute between Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

No immediate damage or injuries were reported in Haiti.

The island of Hispaniola shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic sits atop the Enriquillo– Plantain Garden fault zone, according to the US Geological Survey.

(Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

19

Around The World

In Gaza, hospital procedures without OILNEWS OIL NEWS anaesthetics prompt screams, prayers

Oil prices settle up as Iraq backs more output cuts from OPEC+

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il prices gained about 2% on Friday as Iraq voiced support for OPEC+'s oil cuts ahead of a meeting in two weeks and as some speculators covered massive short positions ahead of weekend uncertainty.

Still, prices settled with weekly losses of 4%, their third straight weekly decline.

"This was the perfect technical storm. We came into this week with an almost record short position and now we're seeing some short covering going into the weekend," said Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group.

Flynn noted that in addition to Iraq's comments, Saudi Arabia and Russia confirmed this week that they would continue oil output cuts through year end.

In the US, energy firms cut the number of oil rigs operating for a second week in a row to the lowest since January 2022, energy services firm Baker Hughes said.

The rig count points to future output. Brent futures rose US$1.42, or 1.8%, to settle at US$81.43 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose US$1.43, or 1.9%, to settle at US$77.17.

Brent and WTI notched their third straight weekly losses for the first time since May, although both benchmarks exited technically oversold territory.

"Concerns about demand have replaced the fear of production outages related to the Middle East conflict," analysts at Commerzbank said.

Weak Chinese economic data this week increased worries of faltering demand. Refiners in China, the largest buyer of crude from Saudi Arabia, the world's largest exporter, asked for less supply for December.

US consumer sentiment fell for a fourth straight month in November and households' expectations for inflation rose again.

US Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco President Mary Daly said she is not ready to say yet whether the Fed is done raising rates, echoing Fed Chair Jerome Powell's comments on Thursday.

Higher interest rates can reduce oil demand by slowing economic growth.

In Britain, the stagnating economy failed to grow in the July-to-September period but did avoid a recession, according to the UK's Office for National Statistics.

OPEC+, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies including Russia, will meet on Nov 26.

Iraq's Oil Ministry said Baghdad is committed to the OPEC+ agreement on determining production levels.

Chances Saudi Arabia will extend its output cut into the first quarter of 2024 "is certainly increasing given renewed market concerns about Chinese demand and the broader macro outlook," RBC Capital Markets analyst Helima Croft said.

Analysts at Capital Economics said OPEC+ might cut supply further if prices continue to fall.

"We are sticking with our forecast of Brent ending both this year and next year at around US$85 per barrel," the research firm said in the note. (Reuters)

T

he little girl was weeping in pain and screaming "Mummy, Mummy" while the nurse stitched up her head wound without using any anaesthetic, because none was available at the time at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

That was one of the worst moments nurse Abu Emad Hassanein could recall as he described the struggle to deal with an unprecedented influx of wounded people and a dearth of pain relief medication since the war in Gaza started a month ago.

"Sometimes we give some of them sterile gauze (to bite on) to reduce the pain," said Hassanein.

"We know that the pain they feel is more than someone would imagine, beyond

what someone their age would stand," he said, referring to children like the girl with the head wound.

Arriving at Al Shifa to have the dressing changed and disinfectant applied to a wound on his back caused by an air strike, Nemer Abu Thair, a middle-aged man, said that he was given no pain relief when the wound was originally stitched up.

"I kept reciting the Koran until they finished," he said.

The war started on Oct 7 when Hamas gunmen burst through the Gaza Strip's border fence with southern Israel. Israel says Hamas killed 1400 people and abducted 240, in the worst day of carnage in Israel's history.

Israel responded with

Palestinian girl Orheen Al-Dayah, who was injured in her forehead in an Israeli strike amid the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, has her wounds stitched without anaesthesia, at Al Shifa hospital in Gaza City, November 8, 2023

an air, sea and ground assault on the densely populated, Hamas-controlled enclave, which health of-

ficials in Gaza say has killed more than 10,800 Palestinians. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US veteran gets world's 1st eye transplant

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urgeons in New York say they have performed the world's first complete eye transplant on a man, although it is not certain he will regain vision.

Aaron James, who survived a high-voltage electrical accident, underwent 21 hours of surgery that replaced half of his face.

Surgeons have been able

to transplant corneas successfully for years.

Experts have called the breakthrough a pivotal moment in the quest to restore sight to millions of people.

James, a high-voltage utility line worker from Arkansas, lost most of his face when it accidentally touched a 7200volt live wire in 2021.

On May 27 this year, he

underwent a rare partial face transplant in addition to the eye transplant - which involved more than 140 healthcare professionals.

Surgeons at NYU Langone Health, who performed the complicated surgery, said on Thursday that James, 46, was recovering well from the dual transplant and the donated eye looked remarkably healthy. His right eye still works.

"The mere fact that we've accomplished the first successful whole-eye transplant with a face is a tremendous

feat many have long thought was not possible," said Dr Eduardo Rodriguez, one of the leading surgeons on the team.

"We've made one major step forward and have paved the way for the next chapter to restore vision."

Doctors say James' surgery offers scientists an unprecedented window into how the human eye tries to heal.

"We're not claiming that we are going to restore sight," Dr Rodriguez told ABC News.

"But there's no doubt in my mind we are one step closer."

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Egypt holiday couple died after room sprayed for bedbugs, Once-in-a-century inquest rules flooding swamps Somalia after historic A drought – UN

British couple died in Egypt from carbon monoxide poisoning after the next-door hotel room was sprayed with pesticide to kill bedbugs, an inquest has ruled.

John Cooper and Susan Cooper, from Lancashire, fell ill while on a family holiday in Hurghada on 21 August 2018.

An inquest heard the next-door room had been fumigated following a report of a bedbug infestation.

James Adeley, senior coroner said the couple were poisoned overnight.

Cooper, 69, and his wife, 63, had been enjoying a "brilliant" holiday while staying at the Steigenberger Aqua Magic Hotel, Preston Coroner's Court heard.

But around lunch time on the eighth day into their holiday the room next to theirs, which had an adjoining locked door between them, was fumigated with pesticide, known as Lambda, for a bedbug infestation.

The room was then sealed with masking tape

around the door.

Hours later the couple returned to their room for the night but were found seriously ill the next day by their daughter, Kelly Ormerod.

Mr Cooper, a builder, was declared dead in the room and Mrs Cooper, a cashier in a Thomas Cook bureau de change, hours later in hospital.

The inquest heard in some countries the pesticide Lambda is sometimes diluted with another substance, dichloromethane, which causes the body to metabolise or ingest carbon monoxide.

Following a three-day inquest hearing, Dr James Adeley, senior coroner for Lancashire, ruled the deaths, on 21 August 2018, were caused by carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of inhaling the vapour from spraying the pesticide which contained dichloromethane.

At the time of their deaths, Thomas Cook removed all of its customers from the hotel. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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he United Nations has described floods that uprooted hundreds of thousands of people in Somalia and neighbouring countries in East Africa following a historic drought as a once-in-a-century event.

Around 1.6 million people in Somalia could be affected by the heavy seasonal downpours, which have been worsened by the combined impact of two climate phenomena, El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a statement late on Thursday.

The floods, which followed heavy rains that started in early October, have already killed at least 29 people and forced more than 300,000 from their homes in Somalia, and inundated towns and villages across northern Kenya.

Camps for people dis-

placed by an Islamist insurgency and the worst drought in four decades have also been flooded, causing people to flee for a second time, aid groups say.

Large-scale displacement, increased humanitarian needs and further destruction of property remain likely, OCHA said, with some 1.5 million hectares (3.70 million acres) of farmland potentially being destroyed.

"Extreme weather linked to the ongoing El Niño risks further driving up humanitarian needs in already-vulnerable communities in Somalia and many other places," said Martin Griffiths, Under Secretary General, the UN's Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator.

"We know what the risks are, and we need to get ahead of these looming crises," he said. (Reuters)

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

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DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Free thinking will get you where you want to go. An unusual financial opportunity, contract or pursuit will give you hope for a better future. A joint venture will turn out better than anticipated.

(March 21-April 19) Put your energy where it counts.

Leave nothing unfinished, and steer others in a direction that is useful to you and brings out the best in them. Timing is everything.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Trust your instincts, not someone nudging you to do things their way.

Stand tall and proceed with confidence.

The more control you have, the less interference you’ll encounter.

(May 21-June 20) Settle your differences with rivals in a sporting manner, and you will be granted what you need to reach your goal. A financial gain or healthy lifestyle change will do wonders.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

You don’t have to give up if someone you were counting on declines to help.

Focus on your end game and do what’s necessary to excel. Put your energy where it will do the most good.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Learn all you can, take notes and question experts. Knowledge will help you succeed. Your willingness to do the work yourself will attract unusual helpers.

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Don’t let anger take the reins when it’s peace and understanding that will help you get your way. A positive attitude and transparency will appeal to the type of people you want on your team.

Set goals based on what’s available.

Don’t waste time waiting for someone unreliable. Take ownership of what you do, and happiness will follow. Network and you’ll find your people.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Participate, add your thoughts and carry out your intentions. Make the world around you a better place. Your gratitude will be infectious. Help someone who needs it.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Ask questions and look for alternatives that encourage peace of mind and discourage negativity. A domestic change is overdue; follow your heart and appease your soul.

LAST PUBLISHED WORD -- MISNOMER

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) A joint venture will stimulate your mind and inspire you to get moving. The more you know, the easier it will be to make solid decisions. A discussion with someone special will lead to change.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Fact-check everything you hear and avoid getting caught up in misinformation. Concentrate on whatever serves your best interests and is to your financial advantage. Strive for stability.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

21

Developments in international cricket…

ICC suspend Sri Lanka Cricket over government interference S

ri Lanka have been suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) because of government interference.

Sri Lanka's Ministry of Sport sacked the national board (SLC) amid the team's poor World Cup campaign, although the decision was reversed by a court. As such, the ICC board determined "Sri Lanka is in serious breach of its obligations as a member".

The terms of the suspension, including any potential ramifications, will be decided at the next ICC board meeting.

The ICC said Sri Lanka had broken "the requirement to manage its affairs autono-

Sri Lanka were beaten by New Zealand in their final World Cup match on Thursday

mously, and ensure that there is no government interference in the governance, regulation

and/or administration".

Sri Lanka have won just two of their nine games at

the World Cup so far, leaving them ninth on the table.

They are coached by former England coach Chris Silverwood.

Last week, Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe described the SLC as "traitorous and corrupt" in a statement to Parliament, and called for board members to resign.

Secretary Mohan de Silva quit, and the board was sacked. Ranasinghe replaced them with an interim committee chaired by World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga, although a petition against the dismissal was granted a two-week stay order by a court this week. SLC also

issued a statement on allegations made by Ranasinghe about supposed financial irregularities.

The ICC suspension comes a day after Sri Lanka's last game at the World Cup in India - a defeat by New Zealand on Thursday.

England are due to host Sri Lanka for a three-Test series next summer, while Sri Lanka are also due to host the Under-19 men's World Cup in January and February next year.

Afghanistan have not been banned by the ICC, although the Taliban banning women from playing sports has resulted in their women's team being unable to com-

pete.

BBC Sport understands this is because the ICC have seen no government interference in Afghanistan.

Speaking to the BBC's Stumped podcast on Thursday, ICC chief executive Geoff Allardice said: "We have spoken with the Afghanistan Cricket Board, and the position is that they have to operate within the laws of the country, and the rules are set by the Government.

Really, the question for the ICC board is: Do we support our member in their ability to promote cricket within the rules set by the government of the country? And the view is ‘yes’." (BBC Sport)

ICC ODI World Cup 2023…

SOUTH AFRICA DEFEAT A GAME AFGHANISTAN

– compliments of Rassie van der Dussen, Andile Phehlukwayo

A

62-ball partnership of 65 between Rassie van der Dussen and Andile Phehlukwayo shepherded South Africa to a win against Afghanistan in their last league-stage game of the 2023 ODI World Cup, ensuring they didn't stutter in a tricky chase before their semi-final against Australia.

Phehlukwayo came in as the #7, with South Africa needing 63 but with Afghanistan's

spinners then possessing the game's momentum.

Phehlukwayo finished the game with 6, 4, 6 to remain unbeaten on 39, while van der Dussen controlled the chase with his 95-ball 76*.

Gerald Coetzee (4-44) and Keshav Maharaj (2-25) had ensured Afghanistan could only make 244 in 50 overs. In fact, the target could've been much less had it not been for Azmatullah Omarzai's unbeat-

SCOREBOARD Afghanistan (50 ovs maximum) Rahmanullah Gurbaz c Klaasen b Maharaj 25 Ibrahim Zadran c †de Kock b Coetzee 15 Rahmat Shah c Miller b Ngidi 26 Hashmatullah Shahidi (c) c †de Kock b Maharaj 2 Azmatullah Omarzai not out 97 Ikram Alikhil †c †de Kock b Coetzee 12 Mohammad Nabi c †de Kock b Ngidi 2 Rashid Khan c †de Kock b Phehlukwayo 14 Noor Ahmad c †de Kock b Coetzee 26 Mujeeb Ur Rahman c Markram b Coetzee 8 Naveen-ul-Haq run out (Rabada) 2 Extras (b 4, lb 1, w 10) 15 TOTAL 50 Ov (RR: 4.88) 244 Fall of wickets: 1-41 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 8.1 ov), 2-41 (Ibrahim Zadran, 9.3 ov), 3-45 (Hashmatullah Shahidi, 10.5 ov), 4-94 (Rahmat Shah, 23.5 ov), 5-112 (Ikram Alikhil, 26.5 ov), 6-116 (Mohammad Nabi, 27.4 ov), 7-160 (Rashid Khan, 37.5 ov), 8-204 (Noor Ahmad, 45.6 ov), 9-226 (Mujeeb Ur Rahman, 47.4 ov), 10-244 (Naveen-ul-Haq, 49.6 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Kagiso Rabada 10-0-40-0 Lungi Ngidi 8.3-0-69-2 Aiden Markram 4.3-0-25-0 Gerald Coetzee 10-1-44-4 Keshav Maharaj 10-1-25-2 Andile Phehlukwayo 7-0-36-1

South Africa (T: 245 runs from 50 ovs) Quinton de Kock † lbw b Mohammad Nabi 41 Temba Bavuma (c)c Rahmanullah Gurbaz b Mujeeb Ur Rahman 23 Rassie van der Dussen not out 76 Aiden Markram c Naveen-ul-Haq b Rashid Khan 25 Heinrich Klaasen b Rashid Khan 10 David Miller c & b Mohammad Nabi 24 Andile Phehlukwayo not out 39 Extras (lb 3, w 6) 9 TOTAL 47.3 Ov (RR: 5.20) 247/5 Did not bat: Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi Fall of wickets: 1-64 (Temba Bavuma, 10.6 ov), 2-66 (Quinton de Kock, 13.1 ov), 3-116 (Aiden Markram, 23.1 ov), 4-139 (Heinrich Klaasen, 27.3 ov), 5-182 (David Miller, 37.1 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Mujeeb Ur Rahman 10-0-51-1 Naveen-ul-Haq 6.3-0-52-0 Mohammad Nabi 10-1-35-2 Azmatullah Omarzai 1-0-8-0 Rashid Khan 10-1-37-2 Noor Ahmad 9-0-49-0 Rahmat Shah 1-0-12-0

Rassie van der Dussen was off to a fluent start

en 97, which expertly held the crumbling Afghanistan innings together.

"We fought right till the last moment", Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi said after their defeat, and that summed up their bowling effort too. They came back superbly after South Africa's openers put on 64 for the first wicket; and when Mujeeb Ur Rahman took the wicket of Temba Bavuma (23) and Mohammad Nabi took the wicket of Quinton de Kock (41) in quick succession, it applied pressure on South Africa.

Led by Rashid Khan's penetrative and troubling spell of 2-37, Afghanistan also picked off Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller without the trio doing much damage; and when Phehlukwayo - playing his first game of the World Cup - joined van der Dussen, it seemed like Afghanistan were one more wicket away from exposing the lower order. That didn't happen, and South Africa brushed aside any lingering doubts

about their chasing capabilities.

For van der Dussen, adjudged Player of the Match, his unbeaten innings of 76 was his fourth fifty-plus score of the World Cup. He walked in at 64 for 1, and clinically rotated the strike early on. In all, he scored 38 runs off singles and four off twos in his 95-ball innings – a run every 2.26 deliveries. That helped him stay on top of the Afghan spinners through the middle overs, and when Noor Ahmad or Mujeeb erred, he punished them to keep South Africa's score moving. His stability at one end ensured South Africa were never behind in the game, even when wickets fell regularly; and he was strong behind square, hitting five of his six fours between deep third and deep backward square leg.

Earlier in the day, Afghanistan opted to bat first, knowing they needed an improbable 438-run victory to move to fourth on the points table. The opening stand blossomed briefly, but two con-

secutive wicket-maiden overs bowled by Maharaj and Coetzee sent both Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran back before the powerplay ended. Maharaj then prised out Shahidi to reduce Afghanistan to 45 for 3, and went on to produce a miserly spell of 2 for 25 that included 41 dots and no boundaries.

Coetzee brought the fire through the middle overs, giving a strong account of himself through the early middle overs when Lungi Ngidi was out with a hamstring issue.

He got the wickets of Ibrahim

fort even as wickets tumbled alongside him. In the company of Rashid and Noor, he dragged Afghanistan from 116 for 6 to 204 for 8, before a late assault took him rapidly towards a century. A tidy Rabada over ensured the fall of Omarzai three runs short of a century, but his innings of seven fours and three sixes ensured Afghanistan had a score they could possibly defend, although it wasn't to be in the end.

Afghanistan have ended their World Cup campaign with their heads held high, having won four games in nine,

Azmatullah Omarzai's unbeaten 97 lifted Afghanistan

Alikhil and Noor caught behind, and dismissed Mujeeb with a short ball to finish with 4 for 44. Rabada went wicketless, but conceded only 40 in 10 overs, while Ngidi's two wickets kept Afghanistan in check, even though he was expensive at the death.

Afghanistan's wrecker-inchief, especially when it came to Ngidi, was Omarzai; who walked in at 45 for 3, but held

and very nearly winning a fifth.

This is their best-ever World Cup performance, and they have also secured their place in the 2025 Champions Trophy.

They are confirmed as at least sixth place on the table.

South Africa now have a rematch of the 1999 semi-final awaiting them in Kolkata; and if they win there, they'll be back in Ahmedabad for the final on November 19.(ESPNCricInfo)

22 V-Net Technologies elevate Keemo Paul to Director of Public Relations GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

W

est Indies and Guyana all-rounder Keemo Paul continues to make strides off the field of play as he lays the early foundation for life after cricket. Recently, his long-time supporter, V-Net Communications, who have been rebranded to V-Net Technologies, elevated him from Brand Ambassador to Director of Public Relations.

According to a release from the company, situ-

ated at 25 Delph Street, Campbellville, Paul is elated to take up more responsibility in the new role.

“I consider V-Net my family; they have supported me since inception, and the experience has been invaluable. Since officially joining the company as a Brand Ambassador in 2017, it has been extremely fulfilling”, Paul explained.

He added, “Just as with my cricket career, I want to take on new challenges,

Holder highlights gulf between cricket facilities in the Caribbean and India

Chief Executive Officer of V-Net Technologies, Safraz Sheriffudeen (left), handing over the new contract to Keemo Paul, the company’s new Director of Public Relations

and with the company's forward trajectory, I grabbed at the opportunity to operate in this new role. I have learned a lot from playing cricket around the world and (from) the business of sport, and I firmly believe it will give me a unique view-

point to promote our V-Net brand”.

V-Net Technologies has extended a benevolent arm into the lives of many other young cricketers, especially those from Essequibo, where the company has its roots in Wakenaam. Chief

Executive Officer Safraz Sheriffudeen has indicated, “I have seen Keemo grow as a boy to a father, and to be a critical thinker. It is a trait he showcased since his early days in the park, and I believe that his passion for the sport brought him

success.”

Elaborating, the CEO said, “As a Brand Ambassador, Paul has given tremendous insights and a refreshed view to marketing, which has brought tremendous brand awareness. Like his quest to evolve as a cricketer, I know his passion for business development. We, as a company, were unanimous that he was the best fit for this new role as we grow and form new alliances in the corporate world.”

V-Net provides viable information and communication technology (ICT) platform solutions to strengthen and develop communication capabilities through connectivity and smart technologies in a sustainable environment.

RFA receive vital football gear for grassroots programme CLASSIFIED ADS

T Jason Holder in action at the Rajasthan Royals High Performance Centre

I

n a candid conversation with Sportskeeda, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder has expressed his concern about the state of cricket pitches in the Caribbean, asserting that the quality of training facilities plays a crucial role in the development of players.

Currently at the Rajasthan Royals High Performance Centre in India, Holder couldn't help but draw a stark comparison between the training grounds in the Caribbean and the state-ofthe-art facilities provided by the Royals.

Holder joined the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2023 season, and provided a much-needed balance to the side. The Rajasthan Royals have set a benchmark in cricketing infrastructure, offering their players a diverse range of eight different pitch variations along with cutting-edge facilities. This stark contrast hasn't gone unnoticed

by Holder, who believes that such facilities are essential for honing skills to a higher standard.

"It's brilliant.

Unfortunately, in the Caribbean, we don't have facilities that are equivalent to this. We just have normal grounds; there's no training ground," Holder remarked as he highlighted the dearth of specialized training facilities in the Caribbean.

Holder emphasized the significance of having a variety of pitches and additional support staff by indicating that the Rajasthan Royals High Performance Centre provides a more comprehensive

and tailored training experience compared to the grounds in the Caribbean. The West Indies cricketer is eager to make the most of this opportunity and extract maximum benefits from the top-notch facilities at his disposal.

"I just found it necessary to get away from the Caribbean, do something away from the Caribbean, and do a lot more specific into what I need to work on," Holder explained as he underscored his decision to seek a more advanced and structured training environment.

Holder also praised the familial atmosphere fostered by the Rajasthan Royals by stating, "It is a really good family that the Royals have here, and they portray that family image."

This sense of belonging and the conducive training environment have contributed to Holder's positive experience at the High Performance Centre. The West Indies cricketer is utilizing his time in India to not only focus on physical fitness, but also to refine his tactical skills. The opportunity to train in different conditions, coupled with the structured approach adopted by the Rajasthan Royals, has reignited Holder's passion for the game, and provided him with a valuable platform for improvement.

As the West Indies all-rounder strives to enhance his cricketing prowess, his insights shed light on the challenges faced by players in the Caribbean, and underscore the importance of investing in advanced training facilities for the development of cricket talent worldwide. (Sportsmax)

he Rupununi Football Association’s (RFA’s) essential football gear have been topped up by the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) Member Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP) for the ongoing grassroots pro-

ideas on how youth football can be further impacted through appropriate competition structures, as well as clubs getting involved by promoting youth competitions.”

The GFF officials also held fruitful discussions with the RFA Executive

ing M-FAP programme continues to supply crucial equipment and training to grassroots coaches, ensuring that the sessions are well-organised and enjoyable for all participants.

M-FAP was launched

by GFF President Wayne

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GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph making a presentation to members of the RFA in the presence of Competitions Director Troy Peters

gramme in the region.

GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph and Competitions Director Troy Peters presented the balls, bibs and hurdles to RFA President Norbert Williams on Saturday, November 4, in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Joseph said, “The RFA continue to lead with grassroots football. They have the largest population of players across the nine Regional Associations, as well as an astonishing 29 football clubs registered to the RFA. It is so satisfying to be able to support the passion and commitment of these clubs by presenting much needed equipment to help sustain the development of football in the RFA. We’ve exchanged

Committee regarding the ongoing grassroots programme.

Further, they attended the RFA male and female senior men’s and women's championship matches at Wadapna Sports Ground, and witnessed the culmination of several months of exceptional club football in the Rupununi region. Tabatinga Football Club are now reigning male champions, while Guyana Rush Saints have successfully defended their women's championship title.

The GFF grassroots initiative plays a pivotal role in the ongoing advancement of football in the Rupununi, Guyana’s most populous football region, and complements the GFF's Academy Training Centre programme.

The GFF's groundbreak-

Forde in 2020 with full endorsement of the GFF Congress. It supports GFF members across four key areas: Administration and Operations, Equipment and Materials, Competition and Technical Development, and Infrastructure Development.

In Central Rupununi, eager young participants from diverse communities, such as Lethem, Tabatinga and Culvert City, are taught the fundamentals of football on Sundays from 8:30hrs to 10:00 hrs at the Wadapna Sports Ground in Lethem.

The main aims of these introductory sessions are to cultivate a passion for football, and to provide valuable developmental opportunities for aspiring young footballers.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

23

Guyana Cricket Commentators Workshop: Nov 16/18…

Contributions being received from various parts of the world A

s the Guyana Cricket Commentators Workshop draws closer, additional support in the form of working papers continues to come in from various parts of the world.

Facilitator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira recently received additional literature that will steer the three-day interactive sessions at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda, from November 16 to 18.

Two Australians: Tim Layne, a commentator, and Ashley Gray, a writer, along with former Combined Islands and Windward Islands batsman Julian Charles and Windward Islands commentator Claudius Emmanuel, are the latest to provide pieces of information that will give participants different perspectives on cricket commentary.

Other contributors include former West Indies cricketers Richard ‘Prof’ Edwards and Michael Findlay; Barbadian-born England batsman Roland Butcher; former Windward Islands and Combined Islands player Lockhart Sebastian; former Jamaica cricket administrator Pat

Clyde Butts, Leon Johnson, Inderjeet Persaud, Neil Barry, John Ramsingh, Matthew Kissoon, Naim Chan, Steven Jacobs, Edwin Seeraj, Sean Devers, Jonathan Foo, Avenash Ramzan, Shemroy Barrington, Jermaine Neblett, Lennox Cush, Brandon Bess, Akeem Greene, Andy Ramnarine, Darien Best, Delwin Neblett, Rajiv Bisnauth, Shabeer Baksh and Anthony

Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira

Terrelonge; former Cricket West Indies Chief Executive Officer Bruce Aanensen; commentators Alexis Jordan, Colin Murray and Sunil Ramdeen; and journalists Lance Whittaker, Guyanese Tony McWatt, Trinidadian Nasser Khan.

‘Reds’ has also acquired a written discussion that was put out by the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (Barbados) with inputs from the late Tony Cozier and journalist Adriel

‘Woody’ Richards.

On day two, veteran broadcaster Russell Lancaster is expected to have a voice training session with the invitees that are drawn from across Guyana. Of the list of invitees, former international cricketers Devendra Bishoo and Christopher Barnwell and journalist Brandon Corlette have signalled their non-participation due to overseas commitments.

The invitees are:

Pyrotechnics expected today

F

ittingly, the two most dominant teams in this year’s CG United Regional Super50 tournament: Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Leeward Islands Hurricanes, will lock horns for the coveted title today in the finals being played at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.

Red Force are sailing high this season on an undefeated campaign that includes a monumental drubbing of Guyana Harpy Eagles to book their place in the final. Their dominance had been asserted early on, with their formidable batting line-up including Darren Bravo and Kjorn

Hayden Walsh

A glimpse of what to expect tomorrow

T

with the widened pool of Guyanese cricket presenters, after the workshop, more radio and television stations will include cricket coverage in their programming from 2024.

The workshop is being held under the theme ‘Taking it to another level.’

The last cricket commentators’ workshop was also conducted by ‘Reds’ Perreira for the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) in 1997.

Final game of CG United Regional Super50 Tournament…

Woodpecker Men’s and Women’s Hockey League final on tomorrow

he National Stadium will proverbially be set alight as the Finals of the Woodpecker Products Men’s and Women’s First Division Leagues bully off tomorrow, Sunday November 12th, 2023.

The GCC clubs will be looking to defend their respective titles.

The Woodpecker Products Men’s and Women’s First Division

Khemraj.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Kashif Mohammad, is expected to deliver a charge to the invitees and to declare the workshop open, while President of the Guyana Cricket Board, Bissoondyal Singh, is slated to deliver remarks at the opening session, which will be chaired by veteran Business Administrator Paul Chan-a-Sue. Perreira expects that,

Leagues commenced at the same venue on 8th October 2023, and six teams: defending Men’s and Women’s champions GBTI and Bounty GCC, Woodpecker Hikers, Saints, Pepsi Hikers, and YMCA Old Fort battled for supremacy.

The Bounty GCC will commence the finals action at 19:00 hrs, when they will look to defend their title and maintain supremacy

as the best hockey team in Guyana coming up against the Winner of 18, whereas the Woodpecker Hikers will come against Saints Women.

The Bounty GCC will look to defend their championship title by playing the Winner of 18, while the Saints will come against a tough and experienced outfit in the YMCA OLD FORT at 21:00hrs.

Ottley who have scored 376 runs and 294 runs respectively as they sit among the top three batters of the tournament. Jason Mohamed (214 runs) and Yannic Cariah (170 runs) have also scored runs for Red Force when it mattered.

The hosts will have among their ranks Nicholas Pooran and Tion Webster, who on their night can both be game-changers with the ball.

Their bowling has also been potent because of Cariah (18 wickets) and Sunil Narine (17 wickets), who are among the top three wicket-takers of the tournament.

To complement this duo, the likes of Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales, Terrance

Yannic Cariah

Hinds and Shannon Gabriel are all in the mix, making the Red Force bowling one of the most imposing of the competition.

Hurricanes, on the other hand, are similarly successful, and have capitalized well on the newly introduced bonus points system; and despite two losses, have managed to finish just five points behind Red Force in the points table. Those losses came against Red Force and Guyana.

Hurricanes’ Justin Greaves leads the run charts, having amassed 391 runs in six innings at an average of 97.75, inclusive of one century and three half-centuries. But Greaves has not done it alone.

Jahmar Hamilton has played a few useful cameos, includ-

ing a career best of 76 as he racked up three half centuries this season with a total of 235 runs.

Atop the Hurricanes’ batting order is Kieran Powell, who has given them a series of starts, having scored 235 runs, with two fifties under his belt.

The surprise package, however, has been Hayden Walsh, who not only leads the bowlers with 18 wickets, but has chalked up two half centuries in his run with the bat this season, wherein he has scored over 200 runs at an average of 50.5. Walsh has been well supported by Daniel Doram, who is having a dream season with 16 wickets at an average of 11, and Alzarri Joseph with 13 scalps.

Hurricanes will enter the match as underdogs, but in order to overcome this tag, Keacy Carty would need to step up with the bat, as he has scored just 135 runs in seven innings and has a best of 37. Another important factor in the Hurricanes attack could be the form of Rahkeem Cornwall, who has the ability to change the match with both bat and ball. However, he has only taken two wickets and scored 43 runs this season.

Will the proverbial David slay Goliath and see the Hurricanes crowned champions? Or will experience dominate and see the Red Force reign supreme? Only time will tell. Who plays the better cricket will win, and the toss could prove vital.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

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

Pg 22

elevate Keemo Paul to Director of Public Relations Pg 23

Final game of CG United Regional Super50 Tournament…

Pg 22

Pyrotechnics between cricket facilities expected today in the Caribbean and India GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.