Guyana Times - Saturday, November 4, 2023

GBTI raises $3.7M for Mahdia fire victims P14

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

Issue No. 5543

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

ICJ to hear Guyana’s case to block Venezuela’s Referendum on Nov 14 See story on page 3

Govt withdraws additional $20B from Natural Resource Fund Page 7

Continuous Registration

GECOM processed close to 15,000 new registrants – 25,846 transactions completed between July and November 2

Page 11

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Demand for power projected to jump to 236 megawatts P17 in 2024 – Min Indar Plumber P2 discovers loaded revolver in female washroom at CJIA

Corentyne man dies 1 week after being P18 struck down by Police officer

Venezuela border controversy

Allow legal process to work in addressing border dispute – EU Page 10

– says not in support of ‘unilateral action’ that can ‘escalate’

Police intercept 2 boats with 19 Venezuelan migrants at Moruca Page 18

– taken to Mabaruma for interrogation; likely to be deported

Real estate director accused of $26M house, land fraud P8 granted bail 6 Police officers among Indian scholarship awardees P2

89 cases for trial at Essequibo October Criminal P8 Assizes

2 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Albouystown carpenter 6 Police officers among remanded for Indian scholarship awardees trafficking cocaine

Remanded: Ronald Hosib

A

The six Police officers who have been granted scholarships

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ix Police officers and one logistics officer attached to the Home Affairs Ministry have been granted a one-week scholarship under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme to study in India.

These Police personnel are Police Constable Onika Samaroo of Georgetown; Lance Corporal Michael Hinds of West Bank Demerara; Police Sergeant Marsha Pereira of East Bank Demerara; Police Constable Jamal Fowler of East Bank Demerara; Police Sergeant Osbert Paul of Corentyne; and Police Constable Everette James of East Coast Demerara. The logistics officer is Delroy O’Neal of East Bank Demerara.

These seven scholarship recipients will be travelling to India to commence a programme in Infrastructure for Electric Vehicle (EV) Deployment, which commences on Monday, November 6, 2023 at the NTPC School of Business in Uttar Pradesh.

These scholarship recipients met with the Head of Chancery of the Indian High Commission, Mukesh Kaushik, who wished them the best and briefed them on the course and ongoing partnership between India and Guyana. They were also advised on the details and logistics of these training programmes. During the meeting, the officers expressed their gratitude to the High Commission and the Government of

India.

The ITEC Programme comprises short-term courses at prestigious institutions of India given to selected partner countries across the world, and are available for all eligible Guyanese, not just officers of the Police and Defence Force.

The programme also covers all expenses relat-

ed to the training, and provides the trainees with a return air ticket, accommodation charges, tuition fees, living expenses, medical expenses, and external and internal tours as per the course curriculum.

The Government of India has said it will continue to foster and build its relationship with the Government of Guyana.

63-year-old carpenter has been remanded to prison for narcotics trafficking, Police having allegedly caught him red-headed "cutting up" cocaine and packing same in Ziploc bags.

Ronald Hosib of Hunter Street, Albouystown, Georgetown appeared without legal representation on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate (ag) Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts and entered a notguilty plea to the accusa-

tion that he had 13 grams of cocaine in his possession on October 27 at James Street, Albouystown with the intent to traffic.

Hosib fiercely defended himself by saying, "I don't sell drugs!", but the prosecution detailed that on the day in question, Hosib was allegedly seen

by Police officers on mobile patrol in James Street "cutting up" the cocaine and putting it into small, clear Ziploc bags.

Hosib has been remanded to jail until November 29.

UG launches probe into inappropriate Plumber discovers loaded revolver in female conduct of lecturer washroom at CJIA

T The gun and ammunition found in the washroom

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loaded revolver has been discovered in a public female washroom facility at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Police have said that, on Friday, a 30-year-old plumber attached to the CJIA went to the washroom at the western side of the airport’s compound to carry out a routine inspection when the weapon was discovered.

He reportedly told Police that, as he entered the washroom, he observed a firearm on the ‘cistern’ of the toilet, and immediately reported the matter.

Ranks from the Timehri Police Station responded immediately and found the .38 revolver with six live rounds of matching ammunition.

The firearm has been taken to the Timehri Police Station as investigations continue.

he University of Guyana (UG) has commenced investigating the allegation that a part-time lecturer engaged in inappropriate conversation in a class.

The allegation has been brought to light via a recording, but while little information has been provided on the incident, the institution informed via a statement on Friday that “The evidence and the circumstances surrounding the conversation are now being investigated by the Department of Law, Faculty of Social Sciences.”

According to UG, this type of behaviour is unacceptable; is against its policies, principles and culture; and will be addressed to the

full extent of its authority.

“Further, the University finds it deeply regrettable that this matter first found its way into the public domain, rather than through the internal channels which would have made the investigation and any disciplinary actions much quicker.”

The University of Guyana offers more than 160 programmes in over 60 disciplines in online, faceto-face, or blended formats.

UG delivers in a Guyanabased system across eight campuses. It is the largest, oldest, most advanced, and only state University in Guyana, and it has a student population of over 10,000.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, Nov 4 – 22:00h – 23:30h and Sunday, Nov 5 – 22:30h – 00:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, Nov 4 – 09:20h – 10:50h and Sunday, Nov 5 – 10:50h – 12:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

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

Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 08:33h and 20:48h reaching maximum heights of 2.07 metres and 2.12 metres.

Low Tide: 14:17h reaching a minimum height of 1.19 metre.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2023

LOTTERY NUMBERS E

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07 11

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22 24

18

FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 DAILY MILLIONS

11 13 20

01 06 LUCKY 3

3

2

9

7

Afternoon Draw

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1

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

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16 19 20

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SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2023

02 07 12 13 16 1

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2X Evening Draw

955

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Crude Oil

$84.89/barrel

-2.26

Rough Rice London Sugar

$286.29/ton $757.40/ton

+0.57 +1.66

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

Change %

USD Per Ounce $1992.20 $1984.20 0.00

$1993.20 $2004.70 0.00

ICJ to hear Guyana’s case to block Venezuela’s Referendum on Nov 14

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he International Court of Justice (ICJ) will be holding a special sitting in two weeks to hear Guyana’s Request regarding Venezuela’s planned referendum that seeks to annex the Essequibo region and integrate it into the Spanishspeaking nation’s territory.

In a statement on Friday, the Netherlands-based Court said it will hold public hearings in the case concerning the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899 (Guyana v Venezuela) on Tuesday November 14, 2023, at the Peace Palace in The Hague.

According to the ICJ, the hearings will be devoted to the Request for the indication of provisional measures submitted by Guyana on October 30, 2023.

In its Request, Guyana states that “[o]n 23 October 2023, the Government of Venezuela, through its National Electoral Council, published a list of five questions that it plans to put before the Venezuelan people in a . . .

‘Consultative Referendum’ on 3 December 2023”. According to the Applicant, the purpose of this referendum is “to obtain responses that would support Venezuela’s decision to abandon [the current proceedings before the Court], and to resort instead to unilateral measures to ‘resolve’ the controversy with Guyana by formally annexing and integrating into Venezuela all of the territory at issue in these proceedings, which comprises more than two-thirds of Guyana.”

During the November 14 hearing, Guyana will present oral arguments from 10:00h to 11:30h while Venezuela will make its submissions from 15:00h to 16:30h.

Last month, the Venezuelan National Electoral Council published a list of five questions that it plans to put

International Court of Justice in The Netherlands

before the Venezuelan people in a referendum set for December 3, 2023. The referendum will seek the Venezuelan people’s approval to, among other things, annex Essequibo and create a Venezuelan state.

This particular question (#5) also seeks the citizen's approval for Venezuela to grant citizenship and identity cards to residents of Essequibo.

Tuesday last, it was revealed that the Guyana Government has sought the World Court’s intervention to prevent Venezuela from taking action through its planned referendum to annex Guyana’s Essequibo region.

One of the questions from the referendum that Guyana is seeking an order against is the very first one, which asks the Venezuelan people to reject the boundary between the two countries that was set in the 1899 Arbitral Award – following a process of arbitration.

Guyana is also seeking the Court’s intervention against question three, which asks the Venezuelan people not to recognise the ICJ’s jurisdiction, even though the Court had thrown out Venezuela’s previous attempt to get the Court not to accept jurisdiction over the case.

Finally, the Court’s intervention is being sought to prevent question five.

According to the ICJ, Guyana is also seeking an order from the Court that “Venezuela shall not take any actions that are intended to prepare or allow the exercise of sovereignty or de facto control over any territory that was awarded to British Guiana in the 1899 Arbitral Award” and further that “Venezuela shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve.”

The Guyana Government on Tuesday explained that the ICJ’s protection against Venezuela’s “sinister plan for seizing Guyanese territory” is urgent. It added that because of the urgency of the matter, Guyana has asked the Court to schedule oral hearings on its request at the earliest possible date in advance of December 3.

In the interim, an extraordinary sitting of the National Assembly in Georgetown is set for Monday, November 6, 2023, where Members of Parliament from both the Government and Opposition are expected to denounce the recent actions by the Government in Caracas.

Over the past few weeks, Guyana has been informing regional and international partners of Venezuela’s

planned referendum, which has been criticised by the United States, the Caribbean Community (Caricom), and the Organisation of American States (OAS) as well as several other nations in the Region including Brazil. There is a consensus that Venezuela’s referendum threatens the peace, security, and stability of the Region.

Former Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Sadio Garavini di Turno, in an opinion piece published on Thursday, bashed the Nicolás Maduro Government over its planned referendum, saying the exercise is not only useless but is a distraction from the ongoing socioeconomic crisis in the Spanish-speaking nation.

Turno, an advisor to the current Opposition in Venezuela, urged the Caracas Government to prepare itself to defend the country’s case before the ICJ. After years of failed good offices process, Guyana approached the World Court in March 2018 seeking a final and binding judgement to reinforce that the 1899 Arbitral Award remains valid and binding on all parties as well as legal affirmation that Guyana’s Essequibo region, which contains much of the country’s natural resources, belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela.

The Spanish-speaking neighbour has laid claim to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass in the Essequibo region and a portion of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in which nearly 11 billion barrels of oil have been discovered largely by United States oil giant, ExxonMobil.

The Guyana Government has already declared its commitment to resolve this longstanding border controversy with Venezuela through the legal process at the World Court. (G-8)

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 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

Intervening mechanisms O

ver time, numerous cases of domestic violence have been reported in the Guyanese media. Many persons were brutally killed, in some instances. Unfortunately, despite awareness efforts and the much-touted training of law enforcement officers, who are expected to be the first step of recourse with regard to the lodging of complaints, this still exists in many of our communities.

There is more than a subtle irony in the continuance of this societal scourge, in spite of the relentless efforts and the plethora of available mechanisms to inform and educate. The problem is much larger than what appears in the news, including the social media outlets, as many cases go unreported. This therefore gives much credence to the appearance of an underestimated reality.

Many reasons have been promulgated for what can deter an abused victim from seeking the intervention of the law. Among them, in no specific order of impact, are aspects of culture; shame; dependency, and its redounding lack of empowerment for some; and the lack of confidence in law enforcement itself, precipitated from the reported trivialising of the issue in some instances.

One may posit that education is a primary concern. On the other hand, one can argue that education has been more profound in recent times. It would be pertinent to ask the question of whether the other factors subvert the heeding of educational messaging; while the answer may be assumed, it would make for interesting and informative research.

As that is contemplated, the magnitude of the impact on children cannot be underestimated. Many have cruelly been made witnesses to the horrific assaults on their mothers and, to a lesser extent, their fathers.

Those ghastly images, especially for some who watched as life was snuffed out, are not only lasting, but profoundly traumatising.

When young minds are so broadsided, the impact, if not managed, lingers for life. Not that it is erasable, but with meaningful and sustained interventions, the trauma can potentially be mitigated, thereby aiding in better shaping of lives. The entire spectrum of what therefore constitutes counselling then becomes vital. This naturally raises the question of the availability of adequate intervening mechanisms.

While it is always heartening to hear that surviving victims and witnesses to such horrific incidents would be counselled, it would be very informative, for the benefit of all, to know the extent of what is available and offered. Realistically, expectations cannot be for what obtains in the developed nations. However, there must be something tangible, in keeping with available resources, with upgrades foremost in planning.

This is not in any way suggesting that there is not an effective mechanism. However, counselling can be an extensive process for some, depending on the circumstances. Given the plethora of incidents that unfortunately continue, and which would make added demands on the system, the question of adequacy of trained staff, needed facilities, and support systems becomes more pertinent.

Not too long ago, the country had the unenviable tag of having the highest rate of suicide per capita. Prior to that categorisation, some aspects had made news internationally, prompting a local organisation to call for suicide to be made a national priority, given its impact on society and the trauma it imposes on surviving relatives.

It was stated that the declaration would not only bring additional focus, but would have positioned the issue to be afforded the necessary resources for its mitigation.

It was not going to be a panacea to stop suicide, but effectively structured, it increases the potential across the country, with the assistance of stakeholders, to maximise the effectiveness of informationgathering for targeted intervention. It would also increase confidence in the support system to help break social inhibitors, where necessary, and to better edify.

It is no different for domestic violence. While there is a disadvantage in being unable to accurately quote figures based on extensive research, if available, on the amount of people lost, injured and disfigured, and those scarred for life as a result of domestic violence, it must be extremely high in proportion to our population. Clearly, the highest number would be those who are left traumatised.

This therefore must be seen as a serious cause for concern, and a compelling reason for consideration to be declared a national priority.

This is an apolitical issue, and is not confined to any one group, thereby making it less difficult to garner national support. In such small societies, the impact permeates throughout and away from just the families.

Children reading and learning about incidents through television and social media are in many ways impacted too, especially if one of their own is affected. In the context herein, the pervasiveness and impact of trauma cannot, and must not, be underestimated. That of road accidents must also be taken into account, for too much is at stake for the nation and its people.

Earlier this year, a Cop Squad Initiative, under which some 500 ranks were trained and equipped to handle domestic and gender-based violence reports, was initiated. While the trauma cannot be erased for victims, the impact can be cushioned at the initial step, where law enforcement officers have been properly trained to help persons who report these incidents.

First Lady Mrs Arya Ali took a photo op with a group of officials within the maritime sector during the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation’s Gala and Anchor Awards ceremony held at the Lauderdale Yacht Club, Fort Lauderdale, on Thursday evening. She was the patron of the ACMF Gala and Anchor Awards

President Ali, Agriculture Minister must be commended for rebuilding the Rose Hall Estate Dear Editor, Six years after the David Granger-led coalition Government closed four of the country’s sugar estates --Enmore, Rose Hall, Skeldon and Wales -- the Rose Hall Estate has officially returned to production, thus bringing a great sense of relief to the residents of Canje and restoring life to the Canje-Sheet Anchor community and the county of Berbice.

Following closure of the estates in 2017, more than 7000 sugar workers and their relatives were placed on the breadline, and many were faced with immense economic hardship.

The APNU+AFC Government did not implement a feasibility plan to cushion the impact of unemployment that followed, and they also refused to follow the normal tradition of offering the workers severance pay.

The residents of Canje and surrounding areas are exceedingly delighted and overjoyed that that estate has been reopened, and they thank President Dr Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government for fulfilling their campaign promise to reopen the estate, which currently employs more than 1200 people.

In return, President Dr. Ali applauded the management and staff of GuySuCo, as well as the union, for the role they played in refurbishing the sugar estate.

Since taking office on August 2, 2020, President Dr. Ali has asserted that one of his government’s objectives was to reopen the sugar estates; because, as he puts it, the proper functioning of the sugar estates is integral to Guyana’s economic and social development, and sugar in intertwined with the Guyanese culture.

Insisting that “King Sugar” is here to stay, President Dr Ali, on a visit to Rose Hall Sugar Estate on September 24, 2023, opined that the once-dormant sugar factory, which was shuttered by the coalition Government, is now grinding and producing sugar.

According to His Excellency, the Rose Hall Estate is deemed the most productive sugar factory in the country, and with its grinding engines functioning at an efficient capacity, it is expected to increase production by more than 12,000 tons.

President Dr Ali, who took a leading role in the rebuilding of the Rose Hall Estate, emphasized that its revival is sound testimony

to the difference between a PPPC Government that builds and the APNU+AFC Government that destroys.

He reassured the workers that his government would not fail them, and that he would make sure that no effort would be speared in making the sugar industry viable, sustainable, and resilient.

The rebuilding of the Rose Hall Sugar Estate and the rehiring of 1200 fulltime and 35 part-time workers could not have been accomplished without its most talented and adept Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Sasenarine Singh, a chartered public accountant who spent more than seven years researching and studying the sugar industry in Guyana. Considered by many as the ablest, most effective, honest and highly professional CEO of GuySuCo in recent times, Mr. Sasenarine Singh’s proactive style of leadership and camaraderie with all the workers, including directors, managers, engineers, factory, and field employees, has been outstanding.

Since his appointment by President Dr. Ali in 2020 as the CEO of GuySuCo, Singh has worked tirelessly and unselfishly to rebuild the Rose Hall Sugar Estate

which was demolished.

According to Singh, when he visited the Rose Hall Estate in late 2020, the factory was completely gutted, marred by neglect and decay, its engines dismantled, and its buildings destroyed. Of the 17 functioning tractors owned by the estate prior to its closure, only two of the tractors had existed, but they were unworkable. The CEO revealed that their wheels were missing; batteries, alternators, starters and radiators had all disappeared. He further stated that more than half of the two hundred punts were rotten, and the fields and drainage network, once the lifeblood of the estate, were overrun by weeds. Singh concluded that, basically, he discovered a “scrap yard” at the Rose Hall Estate when he took over operations.

He made it clear that the closing of the sugar estates by the APNU+AFC Government was painful, unconscionable, and a great injustice to the workers and the nation. He insisted that the cruelty that was inflicted on the sugar workers and the damage that was done to individual households and the community may be lasting, and should never happen again.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

5

News

164 out of 174 settlements regularised from 1990–2023 – CH&PA Head

- as Govt, stakeholders discuss National Strategy to address squatting

Stakeholders during the discussion

I

n an effort to address the issue of squatting in Guyana, the Government is actively working on the Guyana Strategy for Informal Settlement Upgrading and Prevention (GSISUP).

The strategy is being developed by the Housing and Water Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), in collaboration with the UNHabitat and other stakeholders.

On Friday, the CH&PA

hosted a validation workshop to engage stakeholders in discussions about the strategy. Key figures at the workshop included Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; Minister within the Ministry, Susan Rodrigues; Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen; Chief Executive Officer of CH&PA, Sherwyn Greaves; and Community Development Director Gladwin Charles.

Senior Informal Settlement Upgrading Expert Michel Frojmovic

Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen

Minister Susan Rodrigues

was also present, and delivered a presentation on the current status of the strategy.

During her presentation, Minister Rodrigues emphasized the importance of the strategy in addressing squatting; and its role in developing strategic priorities, actionable policies, and a focus on prevention and containment.

She also highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts to regularise and relocate in-

formal settlers in various areas through the National Squatter Regularisation and Relocation Programme, which has been in place since the 1990s. And further, the Minister reiterated the Government’s commitment to providing dignified housing developments for Guyanese citizens, with 92 per cent of allocations going to low, moderate, and middle-income individuals over the past three years.

Regularisation has also

been done in several settlements during the threeyear period, and 220 households have relocated to more wholesome communities.

Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen pointed out that the development of the GSISUP strategy, consultations for which had begun in 2021, aligns with the Government’s commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, and contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11:1 -- to ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services, and upgrade slums by 2030.

CEO of the CH&PA, Sherwyn Greaves, highlighted the prevalence of informal settlements in the country. Based on 2015 statistics, he said, over 27,570 households were documented as residing on state lands in 231 settlements that constituted 15 per cent of the population. Some 174 of those settlements were identified for regularisation,

CH&PA Head, Sherwyn Greaves

while those in zero-tolerance zones were slated for relocation.

The Central Housing and Planning Authority’s work from 1990 to 2023 has so far seen regularisation efforts in 164 out of 174 settlements, benefiting 21,027 households, the CEO added.

GSISUP outlines 50 actions to be implemented over a ten-year period to combat and prevent squatting. The Ministry aims to have the strategy confirmed by early 2024, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing this critical issue.

GECOM’s successful continuous registration process concludes at the end of November Dear Editor, More than 20,000 transactions are expected to be completed during the present GECOM continuous registration process. This will ensure GECOM’s readiness to produce a Register of Registrants which would facilitate the production of a Voters List to hold National and Regional Elections in 2025.

At the end of October 2023, 14,500 transactions were completed. The process is expected to gain some momentum as the closing date of November 30 approaches.

Significantly, more than 14,000 persons took the opportunity to get regis-

tered; while more than two thousand requested changes and corrections, and a further, 1,700 requested transfers.

It is indeed most encouraging to see our people, particularly our young people, showing genuine interest in getting registered and being prepared for the upcoming elections.

Meanwhile, GECOM is calling on all Guyanese who applied for Identification Cards to ensure that they collect their cards.

GECOM must be commended for providing the nation with regular updates since the continuous registration process started on July 4, 2023. The perma-

nent registration offices in the ten administrative regions are functioning very effectively, and the different political parties have paid scrutineers working in all the offices to verify all transactions.

Identification Card

The Guyana Government must be complimented for their genuine effort to provide our people with genuine ID Cards. A reputable international organisation, Veridos, a leading global provider of integrated identity solutions, was offered a contract to produce a digital Identity Card.

In August, Prime Minister Brigadier (retd) Mark Phillips presented the Digital Identity Card Bill to the National Assembly. This genuine exercise will consolidate the biometric data of each citizen into one card, with multiple security features which would certainly offer greater protection against fraud.

The new identification card will be comprehensive.

It will include a person’s name, place of birth, and photo, or facial image satisfying the requirements for a photograph. There will be an identification number, sex, citizenship, fingerprints, and signature. This

President Ali, Agriculture Minister must...

Like President Dr. Ali who led in the rebuilding of the Rose Hall Estate, and the CEO who steered the operations, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha must be commended for spearheading the restoration of the sugar factory.

The Agriculture Minister was overly optimistic that the rebuilding of the estate, even though it was a very ambitious goal, would enhance the livelihoods of the people of Canje and boost the socio-economic impact

of the community as well as employment in Berbice.

However, he was blunt when he said that the closing of the Rose Hall Sugar Estate was callous, reckless, heartless, and insensitive to the needs of the more than 7,000 laid-off workers, their families, and the community at large. It was the greatest mistake made by the previous Government.

Minister Mustapha acknowledged that due to the closure of the Rose Hall Estate, the once bustling

Canje-Sheet Anchor area where the estate is located was reduced to a ghost town, but once the estate is reopened, it will return to its former glory days. He pointed out that the coalition Government which made the decision to close the estates did not look at how it would affect the livelihood of workers, and the role of GuySuCo beyond sugar, or focused on the vast impact that the industry has on the wider society and economy.

The Minister of

FROM PAGE 4

Agriculture reiterated that GuySuCo is the largest single employer in the country after the Government, and it has contributed significantly to the various sports facilities and provided drainage and irrigation services to several communities. For him, GuySuCo is a way of life for the people of Guyana, and everything will be done to maintain the industry.

Sincerely, Dr Asquith Rose

card is indeed a benchmark of Guyana’s explosive development as we stride boldly along the path of 21st century technology.

The PPP/C Government

is consistently doing its best to hold free and fair elections.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 11:00 14:00 15:30 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 20:30 22:00 00:00

(Sign on) Inspiration Time Cartoons Evening News (RB) Stop Suffering Movie - Ladybug & Cat Noir: The Movie (2023) Indian Movie - Deewangee (2002) Movie - Signed, Sealed, Delivered: The Road Less Traveled (2018) Movie - Arranged Love (2023) Payless Power Hour Evangelistic Hour Hepzibah The Evening News Islam for Guyana Movie - Mr. Nice Guy (1997) Movie - The Black Book (2023) Sign off

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

Foundation ◄

Page

20 tourists in a motor boat watching marine plankton bioluminesce

Test Questions

By Rachel Lewis

Tourism and mental imagery

Tourism is the “amalgam of service industries” (Otto & Ritchie, 1996, p.

165), namely transportation, attractions, events, and accommodations, that jointly shape tourists’ experiences at destinations (Lugosi & Walls, 2013). With the steady rise of the inbound tourism market, hotel sector has been experiencing growth in occupancy and revenues (Chen, 2016).

Furthermore, hotel chains have strategically expanded their brand portfolios to diversify brands across scale and services (Wang & Chung, 2015).

When planning their visits to destinations, tourist attribute importance to the geographical location, type of experience, but also to prospective hotel experiences and carefully consider accommodations options, that can make-or-break their destination ex-

perience (Han, Kim, & Hyun, 2011).

Therefore, hotels seek marketing strategies to communicate the best possible experiences to tourists at each touch point of the customer journey (Baker, 2016).

Mental imagery, or a perceptual representation of nonverbal information in memory, has been explored in marketing research as an important mechanism for processing of marketing stimuli (Babin & Burns, 1998; Rajagopal & Montgomery, 2011).

What you will need

A list of popular tourist destinations and other non-tourist destinations

Procedure

Neuropsychology defines mental

imagery as a quasi-perceptual experience manifested in the form of sensory, picture-like representations in the human mind, generated in the absence of true stimuli (Burns, Biswas, & Babin, 1993; Kosslyn, 1976). The mental activity leading to imagery can be prompted by a single sensor or a combination of visual, olfactory, gustatory, or haptic stimuli (Miller & Stoica, 2004).

For each name on your list, visualise the destination. Pay close attention to the images and other impressions that come to mind. List your impressions. Are they of overall positivity? Would you want to go there?

Ask yourself how did those impressions come to be associated with that destination. (Adapted from sciencedirect.com)

Late. The sea runs starless blackly softly below shifting bows, every wave drowned out by the sound of the motor.

Now a fingertip trailing in the sea has lit a flash of green. They start calling to each other and they stop the boat.

Twenty hands reach over the sides to stir the sea alive to see it sparkling to itself in neon code. Splashing fingers become firestarters, clutch wet handfuls, light their palms up blue. And at a microscopic level simple shapes are signalling back, alerting one another to this human touch.

Their messages are fanning out, lighting up light by light, sinking stars into the dark Pacific no one knows how deep.

WORD SEARCH

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt withdraws additional $20B from Natural Resource Fund

T

he Guyana Government has made its sixth withdrawal from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), to the tune of more than $20 billion, to finance its aggressive national development priorities.

In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Finance explained that this latest drawdown from the NRF, which is being held at the New York Federal Reserve Bank, is in accordance with the NRF Act 2021 and the approved Budget 2023.

This sixth transfer for the year saw a total of GY$20.8 billion (equivalent to US$100 million) taken out of the NRF on October 24, 2023, and placed into the Consolidated Fund.

Back in December 2021, the Government amended the NRF Act to bring greater transparency and accountability in the management of Guyana’s oil resources, including the requirement of the Government to seek annual parliamentary approval for withdrawals from the NRF as stated in Section 19 of the NRF Act 2021.

Pursuant to that provision, as part of its consideration of the budget process, the Parliament approved a total of GY$208.9 billion (equivalent to US$1.002 billion) to be withdrawn from the NRF in 2023.

Last month’s withdrawal now brings the accumulated transfers to date this year

up to GY$156 billion (equivalent to US$750 million) out of US$1.002 billion. This means an additional GY$52.9 billion will have to be transferred before the end of 2023.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration previously said it will continue to work aggressively through “sound and transformative investments of oil resources” from the NRF by utilising these funds in a clear and transparent manner to the benefit of present and future generations of Guyana.

Only in September, the Government reported its fifth withdrawal from the NRF, totalling GY$10.4 billion (equivalent to US$50 million).

Earlier that month, it was announced that in August and September, amounts totalling US$200 million or GY$41.6 billion had been transferred from the Natural Resource Fund to the Consolidated Fund to finance national development priorities.

These withdrawals followed another US$400 million or GY$83.2 billion being taken out of the NRF in February and May of this year.

In total, the accumulated withdrawals from the NRF thus far this year amount to US$650 million or GY$135.2 billion.

The funds in the NRF have their origins in the oil-

rich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where United States oil major ExxonMobil and its partners are producing ‘light sweet crude’ using the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels.

Last year was the first time Guyana had used oil funds to finance a national budget. In fact, in 2022, the Government withdrew a total of $126 billion (US$607.6 million) in three tranches from the NRF which went towards financing Guyana’s national development plans.

This year’s $781.9 billion budget was financed for the first time by both oil and climate funds, earned from selling Guyana’s high-quality carbon credits to Hess Corporation.

Since the passage of the NRF Act in 2021, the Guyana Government has gone on to establish the Natural Resource Fund Board.

In January of this year, the Bank of Guyana signed an agreement to officially hand over control of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) to the Board of Directors appointed by the President.

According to Section 5 (6) (d) of the Act, the Board is required to enter into an operational agreement with the Bank, so that management of the Fund can change hands.

This agreement was signed two days after the reading of the 2023 budget.

The NRF Board is chaired

by Major General (Ret’d) Joe Singh. Other members of the Board are Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett; Private Sector Executive Ramesh Dookhoo; former People’s National Congress (PNC) parliamentarian Dunstan Barrow; and former Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Compton Bourne.

In August, Chairman Singh submitted the first NRF Report for 2022 in which he indicated that the NRF Secretariat is slated to be established in the second half of this year. With the establishment of the Secretariat, he noted that the operational needs of the Board will be met.

Despite the absence of the Secretariat, however, Major Singh assured that the NRF has been functioning in an efficient manner and has maintained contact and a healthy exchange of information with all relevant parties.

“The Board, through the Chairman, has been maintaining contact and exchang-

ing information on a regular basis with the investment committee and the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee through their respective chairs and with the Hon Minister of Finance,” the Chairman said in the report.

He added, “Monthly and Quarterly Reports on the performance of the Fund received from the Bank of Guyana have been perused by the Board and shared with the two committees of the Fund. These reports and the performance of the Fund are publicised within the

prescribed timelines on the Ministry of Finance’s website and in the public media in compliance with the Act.” Under the Principal Act, the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) has an Investment and Public Accountability Committee as well as an Oversight Committee.

The NRF Board consists of five members, while the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee (PAOC) is comprised of nine members, and the Investment Committee has seven members. (G-8)

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

89 cases for trial at Essequibo October Criminal Assizes

Working…

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Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry

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The High Court in Essequibo

he Essequibo October Criminal Assizes opened on October 24 with 89 cases set to be heard

by Justice Priya SewnarineBeharry at the High Court in Suddie, Essequibo, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Among the cases listed are murder, manslaughter, attempt to commit murder, wounding with intent, discharge of loaded firearm, rape, rape of a child under 16, sexual activity with a child family member, unlawful possession of firearm/ ammunition, armed rob-

bery, and abduction.

Besides examining committal records, the functions of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) include presenting indictments in the Criminal Assizes at the High Courts in Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo. During these criminal sessions, one or more state counsel and/or special prosecutor(s) would be assigned to prosecute the cases listed to be heard by the sitting trial judges.

There are four assizes for the year in the county of Demerara, and three assizes

per year in both the counties of Berbice and Essequibo.

The courts in all three counties sit nearly simultaneously during these assizes.

Demerara usually has more cases than the other counties because it covers a larger geographical and populated area.

The DPP also enters plea bargain agreements with lawyers, at their request and after due consideration of the matter, and also provides advice to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), and other

Government agencies.

Further, prisoners who are awaiting trial in the High Courts and other parties to a criminal matter can complain to the DPP if they are not satisfied with the Police investigations.

The DPP also receives letters from attorneys-at-law about issues concerning their clients’ cases. The Office of the DPP would take the appropriate action in this regard.

Complaints received on misconduct by members of the Guyana Police Force are sent to the Commissioner of Police for action to be taken by the Office of Professional Responsibility. Complaints can also be made to the Police Complaints Authority for their action.

Suspect accused of robbing elderly man of cellphones remanded to prison

A

cellphone robbery accused will be spending the Christmas break in jail after Senior Magistrate Leron Daly refused him his pre-trial liberty when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates Courts on Friday charged with the offence of robbery.

It is alleged that on October 28, at Fourth Street Kingston Georgetown, Joshua Craig robbed an elderly man of an iPhone 14 Pro Max cellphone valued at $300,000; an iPhone 12 Pro Max cellphone valued at $300,000; and a wallet valued at $10,000, all

to the value of $610,000, while making use of personal violence.

Craig entered a notguilty plea to the allegation without the assistance of a lawyer. However, after his arrest, he had taken Police investigators to the place where he had hidden the stolen phones, and had given a confessional caution statement. As such, the Police prosecutor opposed his being granted bail.

The virtual complainant (VC) attended Friday’s court hearing, and the prosecutor said the elderly man’s neck had been slightly injured during the robbery.

Remanded: Joshua Craig

In the end, the accused was denied bail, although he has no prior anteced-

ents. He is expected to return to court on February 2, 2024.

Real estate director accused of $26M house, land fraud granted bail

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o h a m m e d Shaheed, a 56-year-old real estate director who lives at Patentia, West Bank Demerara, was on Friday arraigned before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on charges of receiving money under false pretenses.

The father of five is accused of deceiving Terrence Sobers into giving him $26 million between April 15, 2021 and July 25, 2023 by pretending to be in a position to purchase land and

build houses. Sums of money were handed over at SMS Realty and Development at Albert Street in Alberttown, Georgetown, where Shaheed is a director.

Represented by Attorney-at-Law Dexter Todd, Shaheed denied the allegation, and Todd told the court his client is a director of SMS Realty and Development, and that a development and property acquisition agreement exists between Raydan Housing Development and SMS Realty and

Mohammed Shaheed

Development.

Further, Todd asserted that the $26 million was paid to SMS Realty and Development, and not to his client.

The Police prosecutor, however, disclosed that Shaheed did collect the money; and although he did not object to the defendant being released on bail, he requested that it should be in a large amount.

Shaheed has been placed on bail in the sum of $500,000, and is scheduled to reappear in court later this month.

…for whom?

here are plenty of Guyanese in America – especially in New York City, and more so in Brooklyn and Queens.

See?? No one’s surprised by those last two names like, say, if your Eyewitness had mentioned Calumet Heights in Chicago. We aren’t surprised, because we ALL have relatives in Brooklyn or Queens, or maybe even visited there. Some of us know places like Flatbush more than we know our very own Albouystown!!

Anyhow, one peculiarity of our Guyanese people in “fareign” – especially the first-generation ones, who may go back all the way to the sixties when bell-bottoms were the rage! – is they have an abiding interest in Guyanese politics. And that ain’t surprising, since their identity was mostly shaped by the political struggle between the PPP and PNC “back home”. You can take the Guyanese from Guyana, but you can’t take their political bent that’s encoded in their DNA. And so it actually is, since our politics is split between Indian Guyanese supporting the PPP and African Guyanese supporting the PNC!! So, a constant in our political mobilization for elections – which is a never-ending process in Mudland! - has been for the politicians to trek up to the “City that never sleeps” to press the flesh. And not so incidentally press out some Yankee dollar bills for the hustings back home!!

For reasons we don’t have to go into right now, the political schism in Guyana ended up in NYC - not just in orientation to the two political behemoths, but geographically. The Indos ended up in the east (Queens) and the Afros in the west (Brooklyn); and as Kipling had noted in another context, never the twain shall meet!! So, we have replicated in NC a kinda segregation that is similar to the one that occurred in our villages during the 1960s.

But of recent – very recent – with the need to court votes from across the divide to win elections (unless you wanna rig!! the politicians have been giving the full-court press to all communities, not only in dear old Mudland, but in Region 11 (NYC!!). But a worrying development’s been US-based PNC activists lobbying for their “homeys” from Guyana.

Are they aware of 18 USC sec 951? “Whoever, other than a diplomatic or consular officer or attaché, acts in the United States as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the Attorney General…shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both…. For purposes of this section, the term ‘agent of a foreign government’ means an individual who agrees to operate within the United States subject to the direction or control of a foreign government or official.”

Wouldn’t want orange jumpsuits for the Brooklyn posse!! …against the tide Now you, dear readers, would know your Eyewitness has a soft spot for America. He knows that, back in the sixties, they slapped that embargo on Cuba to stop the “demonstrator effect” from influencing other decolonizing states like Guyana. Hey…they were locked in a life-anddeath battle with the USSR, weren’t they?? But after they won that war in 1989 - when the Berlin Wall came tumbling down – your Eyewitness was certain the embargo would’ve been lifted. Especially when even radicals like Jagan saw the light.

But here we are: the U.N. General Assembly - for the 31st time!! – has called on the US to end its now 60-yearold trade embargo against Cuba. Jeez, the island’s suffering its worst economic crisis in decades, with shortages of food, fuel and medicine!! The Yanks needed allies against their new challenger China, but didn’t garner any when the resolution was approved by 187 countries!! That only the United States and Israel voted against, and Ukraine abstaining, was damning!! …for a cause While we’re hearing a lot about Hamas and Gaza, what do we know about Hamas? Do we even know it’s not really a name, but an acronym?? Yep – HAMAS means “Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiya “ – the Islamic Resistance Movement!!

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

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

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Energy, health among top priorities during upcoming EU Trade Mission to Guyana

By Rupa Seenaraine

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European Union (EU) Trade Mission is expected in Guyana later this month, with a heavy focus on forging greater economic cooperation with Guyana in the areas of health, climate, energy, and regional connectivity.

Making this announcement was European Union Ambassador Rene Van Nes during a press briefing on Friday. The trade mission will function under the premise of the Global Gateway initiative – an EU strategy to invest in infrastructure projects and establish economic partnerships through smart, clean, and secure linkages.

“It's all about enhancing smart, clean, secure connections. Connections between people, connections in the digital domain, energy connections, and transport connections. It is all about strengthening health and education and research facilities globally in a sustainable way; sustainable not only from an environmental perspective but sustainable from a social perspective, from a people's perspective, from a perspective of finance and economy.”

For Guyana, it was agreed that the agenda will focus on producing pharmaceuticals locally, possibilities to fund solar off-grid systems in the hinterland, and lastly, the connection within the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

“So, all of these investments are of course tremendously relevant and interesting for European companies.

And hopefully, European companies will be interesting for Guyana, as they can make use of the many research institutions that Europe has to offer.

They’re often involved in very high-quality products or services.”

Ambassador Van Nes shared that they reached out to European Member States and advertised that Guyana ‘is the country to do business’ in. Over 20 companies have indicated interest, with a breakdown of eight from the Netherlands, four from Spain, two from Germany, two from Finland, and one each from Belgium, Italy, Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and France.

Among the large enterprises include Siemens, the provider of turbines for the massive Gas-to-Shore Project. Nokia, a well-known Finnish company that specialises in technology and consumer electronics, is also on the roster. There are also some financial institutions, such as the French Development Agency and CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.

“So, the focus of that mission will be to go into a number of the sectors, to explore areas of development, to look for possible partners, to look for investment opportunities, and we hope that that indeed will

and that it is therefore not too late at all.”

EU Ambassador Rene Van Nes

lead to a number of very concrete relations, investment opportunities that will materialise in the periods after that,” Van Nes underlined.

The beginning The trade mission is set to arrive on November 20, 2023, for the three-day engagement.

Asked whether it is too late to come to the market since many trade missions have already made strides to connect with the business community here, the Ambassador said Guyana is just getting started.

“What you see now is only the beginning. Guyana is only starting its phenomenal growth trajectory and so, I don't think it's too late. I praise those that were earlier. I think these were sort of the first to come to the market and yes, they will benefit from that early access, but I absolutely believe that Guyana will have much more to offer

Visa waiver In forging connectivity and relations with EU partners, one of the key concerns raised by the business community and backed by President Irfaan Ali has been visa access.

At this time, Guyanese citizens are required to travel to neighbouring Suriname to get their Schengen visas processed.

Last July President Ali discussed Guyana’s nomination letter for visa-free Schengen status with Slovenia during the European UnionCommunity of Latin American and Caribbean States (EUCELAC) Summit.

The Ambassador supported sentiments that this issue has been a hindrance to working together but he also drew attention to the stringent process of getting a waiver approved.

“It’s clear if you want to work together, it's important that you can visit each other and the fact that it is so difficult for people in Guyana to get this Schengen visa is that there's certainly a hindrance.”

“It is not the European institutions that can decide on that. You need individual European Member States that want to promote this case and say yes, either bring the facility here so that you can apply for a Schengen visa in Georgetown, that would already make your life a lot easier instead of trav-

elling to Paramaribo,” Van Nes contended.

Coming out of the trade mission visit and engagements with President Ali and Cabinet, he added that this message will become even clearer. One of the conditions for every country that wants to be considered for the visa waiver is to possess a passport with biometric data.

The EU official reasoned, “It is not to make life difficult for anyone. It is because that’s how customs these days work.

If you want to secure your borders, you want to have a passport that contains the data that you need in order to make sure that the person that is in front of you is indeed the person that is in front of you.”

Guyana has been extending

ties around the world, and the Government has assured that investors can expect an enabling business environment.

In March, the British Chamber of Commerce (BritCham) was launched in Guyana, coming months after visa restrictions were removed for Guyanese visitors to the United Kingdom (UK).

Then in April, the IndiaGuyana Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) was formed, thus paving the way for the facilitation of trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

Later in May, the Government of Ghana commissioned the first Ghanaian Chamber of Commerce in Guyana. There is also an American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham).

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Venezuela border controversy

Allow legal process to work in addressing border dispute – EU – says not in support of ‘unilateral action’ that can ‘escalate’

European Union Ambassador to Guyana Rene Van Nes

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eighing in on Venezuela’s border controversy, the European Union (EU) on Friday urged both parties to allow the legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to work in addressing the dispute.

Ambassador to Guyana, Rene Van Nes joined calls for the due process to be followed during a press conference, amid Venezuela’s planned referendum that seeks to annex Guyana’s territory in the Essequibo region.

At this time, the EU diplomat underscored that in light of the fact that the international court is the agreed pathway to bring this matter to finality, both parties must avoid any escalations or unilateral actions.

“The position of the EU is that we strongly feel that international law and multilateral institutions are the appropriate framework for addressing international disputes. And when it comes to the recent statements, actions, and everything that we have seen on the Essequibo, the EU calls on all sides to avoid unilateral actions or escalations in light of the ongoing proceedings that are happening at the International Court of Justice. We, very clearly, refer to the court of justice, as the agreed mechanism to deal with this situation,” Van Nes disclosed.

Venezuela renewed its claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region back in 2015, mere days after it was announced that US oil giant ExxonMobil had discovered oil in commercial quantities in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where there are now proven reserves of more than 11 billion oil-equiva-

lent barrels.

On Tuesday, it was revealed that the Guyana Government sought the World Court’s intervention to prevent Venezuela from taking action through its planned referendum to annex Guyana’s Essequibo region.

One of the questions in the referendum that Guyana

seeks the citizens’ approval for, among other things, Venezuela granting citizenship and identity cards to residents of Essequibo.

According to the ICJ, Guyana is also seeking an order from the Court that “Venezuela shall not take any actions that are intended to prepare or allow the exercise of sovereignty or de facto control over any territory that was awarded to British Guiana in the 1899 Arbitral Award”; and further, that “Venezuela shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court, or make it more difficult to resolve.”

Over the past few weeks, several regional bodies, including the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and the Organisation of American States (OAS) Secretary General Luis Amalgro, who has already condemned Venezuela’s actions, have called for the

International Court of Justice in The Netherlands

is seeking an order against is the very first one, which asks the Venezuelan people to reject the boundary between the two countries that was set in the 1899 Arbitral Award following a process of arbitration.

Guyana is also seeking the Court’s intervention against question three, which asks the Venezuelan people not to recognise the ICJ’s jurisdiction, even though the Court had thrown out Venezuela’s previous attempt to get the Court not to accept jurisdiction over the case.

Finally, the Court’s intervention is being sought for question five. Question five asks the Venezuelan people to agree to the annexation of Essequibo and the creation of a Venezuelan state.

Additionally, question five

Spanish-speaking country to adhere to a peaceful settlement of the border controversy and desist from any aggressive actions.

The Permanent Council of the OAS held a special session following a request by Guyana this week, where Prime Minister Mark Phillips highlighted the country’s concerns regarding the Spanish-speaking nation’s increase of military troops near the border.

At that time, the United States of America also declared its support for Guyana’s sovereign rights.

US Ambassador to the Organisation of American States (OAS), Frank Mora informed the hemispheric body of his Government’s support for Guyana’s sovereign rights. (G-12)

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Continuous Registration

GECOM processed close to 15,000 new registrants – 25,846 transactions completed between July and November 2

GECOM PRO, Yolanda Ward

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ith this round of Continuous Registration set to wrap up this month, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has processed close to 15,000 new registrants thus far in the exercise.

This was revealed by GECOM’s Public Relations Officer, Yolanda Ward, while providing an update to <<<Guyana Times>>>. The ongoing registration cycle commenced on July 4, 2023, and is slated to conclude on November 30, 2023.

Ward disclosed that as of November 2, approximately 25,846 transactions were completed by the Elections Commission. Of these transactions, some 14,950 were new registrations including 9551 persons who are 18 years and older and another 5399 persons between the ages of 14 and 17.

Additionally, there were 1851 applications for transfer and a further 2300 who had applied for changes/ corrections, that is, name change or spelling corrections and wrong date of birth.

The GECOM PRO also disclosed that some 6145 persons have applied for a replacement of their National Identification (ID) Cards while another 600 persons also applied for a photo retake.

With this round of Continuous Registration set to wrap up, teens who will be 14 years and older by the end of December 2023, and are Guyanese citizens by birth, descent, naturalisation, or registration, or citizens from a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for one year or more, can apply for registration, provided that they were never registered.

Existing registrants who are desirous of updating their records, such as a request to correct or change their names, date of birth, occupation, and update their addresses are advised that those transactions would

also be facilitated during this exercise.

All eligible persons are reminded to visit the GECOM Registration Office responsible for the area where they live to apply for registration or changes/corrections.

Only Tuesday last, GECOM had advised persons who have applied for registration to check with the respective Registration Office where they had applied: to enquire about the availability of their National ID Card and to ensure that they uplift same at their earliest convenience.

The Commission, in a statement, said that provided there are no issues with an applicant’s registration transaction, an Identification Card is produced no later than six weeks from the time of the application.

GECOM has noted it is committed to producing and issuing National Identification Cards to firsttime registrants within the shortest possible time.

However, it is not unusual for this process to be held back amid the need to routinely conduct the crossmatching of the relevant fingerprints, on a monthly basis, to check for multiple registrations.

“The primary objective of the fingerprint cross-matching exercise is to ensure that no registrant is listed in the National Register of Registrants more than once,” GECOM has explained.

Meanwhile, registrants who have applied for a change or correction to their registration records, or for a replacement ID Card, can check with the Registration Office within two weeks of their application to uplift their ID Card. A full list of contact numbers for all the GECOM Registration Offices can be accessed on the website.

In March, the Guyana Government signed a US$35.4 million contract with German-based company Veridos Identity Solutions

to implement the Single Electronic Identification System here. It would see new e-cards being issued to Guyanese for the conduct of a wide array of transactions, as well as to monitor the issuance of work permits in the country.

In October 2021, Guyana had reached out to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Government for assistance in introducing the electronic identification card. With the intervention of His Highness Sheikh Juma bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, two international companies were shortlisted.

Veridos, a global leading provider of integrated identity solutions, was subsequently selected, after making a presentation to the Guyana Government. It was explained that the evaluators found the partially-owned German Government company had presented the best solution for Guyana.

Later, in August, Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips presented the Digital Identity Card Bill to the National Assembly. This major endeavour to consolidate the biometric data of each citizen into one card with high-security features will offer greater protection against fraud, once imple-

mented, the Government has said. The Government has already explained that this e-ID would not replace the National ID Card issued by GECOM. Data that will be entered into the new identification card includes a person’s name, date and place of birth, photo or facial im-

age satisfying the requirements for a photograph, unique identification number, sex, citizenship, fingerprints, and signature. In the case of a non-citizen, a number for the application of a work permit and any other data that the Commissioner may prescribe will have to be provided. (G-8)

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$120M health centre at Diamond commissioned A

spanking new $120 million health centre was officially commissioned on Thursday at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, to provide access to primary healthcare services to more than 40,000 persons there and neighbouring areas.

The commissioning was attended by Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony; Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud; Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr Gavinash Persaud, and other officials.

During the simple ceremony, Minister Anthony highlighted that a $78 million contract was awarded under the previous Administration to construct the centre but it was never completed.

Upon assuming office in August 2020, the Government invested some $40 million to ensure the facility could be completed to improve the delivery of health services to persons.

“We were anxiously awaiting the opening of this facility…Now that it is all fixed up, we want to make sure that it is used properly.

It is a health centre like any other health centre. So, the services that will be provided would support mothers and children…general services…They must be able to come here and get that level of care…” the Health Minister said.

Over the years, Dr Anthony underscored that the Government has made critical investments in the

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

The spanking new $120M health centre

One of the gadgets at the health centre

MMU Director Vivienne Galasso cutting the ceremonial ribbon to open the centre

health sector towards the delivery of enhanced access to healthcare services countrywide.

Between 2022 and 2023, the Administration expend-

ed some $300 million to assist with the general upgrading of infrastructure in the region.

Dr Anthony also provided a detailed overview of

several transformative and comprehensive initiatives to further boost the health sector, including the construction of regional hospitals and health centres, bet-

ter primary and specialised health services, and training programmes for healthcare workers, among others.

“This country is going to be very prosperous. You are already seeing the prosperity. And if we want to enjoy that prosperity, then we have to live a long and healthy life to enjoy that prosperity,” Dr Anthony noted.

Meanwhile, Minister Persaud noted that the facility is one of the many commitments that the PPP/C

presented in its manifesto to Guyanese.

“This facility has been long overdue…This is one of the commitments that we made when we were campaigning in 2020…There are many facilities like this and many hospitals that are going to be built throughout the length and breadth of Guyana…”

Minister Persaud emphasised.

He also encouraged community members to maintain the facility and to fully utilise the services being offered.

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4,, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WCCIG elects new executives for 2023-2024

Rowena Elliot

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Aysha Khan

he Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana (WCCIG) has elected its new executives to lead the organization for its 2023/2024 cycle.

During its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, Rowena Elliot of Blue Water Shipping was re-elected President of the organization. With her exceptional leadership skills

Martina Johnson

and extensive industry knowledge, Elliot has proven herself a valuable asset to the chamber. Under her guidance, WCCIG will continue to advocate for gender equality in the business world, and support women entrepreneurs.

Aysha Khan of XL Engineering rejoins the WCCIG Executive team as Vice President responsible for Training and

Shevion Sears

Development. Khan’s passion for empowering women through education and skills-building programmes makes her an ideal candidate to continue in this role.

She will be instrumental in developing initiatives that enhance the professional growth and development of WCCIG members.

Martina Johnson of Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) Inc

Visual Arts serve as a catalyst for entrepreneurship – Assistant Chief Education Officer – as TVET Unit’s Visual Arts Career Exhibition opens

Two of several pieces on display at the exhibition

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he Ministry of Education’s Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Unit on Friday opened its Visual Arts Career Exhibition and Fair.

The event, which is the first of its kind, is being hosted on the lawns of Castellani House, from November 3 to November 10 under the theme “Art as Entrepreneurship”.

Providing an overview of the event, Visual Arts Education Officer, Lori-Ann Jacobs stated that it provides a unique opportunity for students to witness firsthand, the contributions of artists and creative professionals across various disciplines.

She also noted that it provides a platform for secondary school students to explore the entrepreneurial aspect of an art career, focusing on strategies for marketing, networking, self-promotion, and building a sustainable artistic

Some students viewing the art on Thursday

practice.

Meanwhile, Assistant Chief Education Officer (Technical), Marica Andrews in brief remarks said Visual Arts serve as a catalyst for entrepreneurship and a vital component of holistic child development.

As such, the TVET Unit at the Ministry of Education continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Visual Arts education in schools across Guyana.

The event showcases the talents of many artists in various forms. The lawns of Castellani House are decorated with colourful, creative, and thought-provoking art pieces.

During the opening ceremony, a number of students who performed outstandingly in Visual Arts at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) 2023 examination were also recognised and awarded.

Josephine Tapp

has been elected unopposed to serve as Senior Director for Public Relations. With her strong communication skills and strategic mindset, Johnson will focus on managing the chamber’s public image and strengthening its relationships with key stakeholders. Her expertise in mass communications, journalism, and business administration is expected to contribute significantly to raising awareness about WCCIG’s initiatives and events.

Shevion Sears of Sears Consultancy Inc. has been elected Senior Director of Business Diversity, and will also be responsible for membership. With over two decades of experience in capacity building, Sears brings a deep understanding of diversity and inclusion issues, which would be invaluable in promoting equal opportunities within the business community. She will also focus on

Shamela John

expanding WCCIG’s membership base, ensuring that more women have access to resources and networking opportunities.

Josephine Tapp of B & J Civil Works Inc. has been elected unopposed to serve as Secretary. Her organisational skills and attention to detail make her well-suited for this crucial role within the executive team. She will manage administrative tasks, maintain records, and facilitate effective communication among the members.

Shamela John of RESYSCO by SJ Inc., who served the previous Board of Directors as Secretary, has been elected unopposed as Treasurer. With her financial acumen and experience in managing budgets, John has been elected to ensure the chamber’s financial stability and transparency.

She will oversee the financial operations of WCCIG, including budgeting, report-

Lisa Mohamed

ing, and compliance.

And Lisa Mohamed of OnCall Health Inc. has been elected to the post of Director of Outreach, Events, and Fundraising.

Mohamed’s creativity and passion for community engagement will be instrumental in organising impactful events and fundraising initiatives. She will work closely with the executive team to develop partnerships and collaborations that further WCCIG’s mission.

“The newly elected executive team thanks the former executive team, and is committed to continuing to advance the interests of women in business and fostering an inclusive environment that promotes their success. Together, we will lead WCCIG towards achieving its goals and empowering women entrepreneurs across various industries,” the WCCIG has said in a release to the media.

14 NEWS ‘Pop Up Shop’ event billed for December 16 at MovieTowne SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Edmonson stated.

"This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to support and promote local business-

hood of our fellow entrepreneurs and foster a deeper sense of unity in Guyana."

The Pop Up Shop event, which commences at noon

es in Guyana. We invite everyone to join us on December 16 for a day of shopping, fun, and a great sense of community spirit," she added.

Founder of Pop Up Nation 592, Shazim Ali expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This collaboration with MovieTowne is a significant step towards strengthening our local business community. We believe that events like this can make a positive impact on the liveli-

on December 16, is an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore unique products, connect with local entrepreneurs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to come out, support local businesses, and be a part of this exciting collaboration between Pop Up Nation 592 and MovieTowne.

For more information about the event and updates, please follow @ PopUpNation592 and @ MovieTowne on social media.

Some of the local businesses that will be on display

P

op Up Nation 592 in collaboration with MovieTowne will host a “Pop Up Shop” event on December 16 with the main focus of showcasing and supporting the vibrant array of local businesses in

Guyana.

The Pop Up Shop event promises to be an exciting day filled with an eclectic mix of products and services from talented entrepreneurs across the region.

MovieTowne, renowned for

its dedication to the community, is thrilled to be the venue for this celebration of local creativity and innovation.

"We are excited to partner with Pop Up Nation 592 in bringing this event to life," Marketing Manager at MovieTowne,

GBTI raises $3.7M for Mahdia fire victims

T

he Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) on Friday handed over a cheque to the tune of $3,720,195 to Director General of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Colonel (Retired) Nazrul Hussain.

The amount was collected through a fund spearheaded by the banking facility to support those affected by the Mahdia Secondary School fire which claimed the lives of 19 teenagers and a five-year-old.

The donation was hand-

GBTI Marketing Manager Pernell Cummings handing over the cheque to Civil Defence Commission Director General, Colonel (retired) Nazrul Hussain

ed over by the bank’s Marketing Manager, Pernell Cummings.

In a release to the media, the bank explained that the Mahdia Fund was established in response to the devasting fire at the school’s dormitory back in May this year which not only resulted in the loss of lives but complete destruction of the school’s infrastructure.

“GBTI not only contributed to the fund but also sought support from its customers and the public to contribute to this noble cause.”

The fund was closed at the end of August, and the raised funds will be channelled through the CDC to provide support to those affected by the tragedy.”

GBTI expressed its gratitude to all those who contributed to the fund and extended hope and best wishes to the people of Mahdia and Region Eight.

This effort by GBTI demonstrates the institution’s corporate social responsibility and community support, which is crucial in times of crisis and need.

Reg 3 CCI to host job fair on November 26

T

he Executive Committee of the Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara Chamber of Commerce and Industry, (R3CCI) has teamed up with the Ministry of Labour to host a job fair on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at the West Demerara Secondary School.

The job fair aims to provide valuable opportunities not only for job seekers but also offers support through a series of workshops designed to assist attendees in enhancing their job prospects.

These workshops will cover essential topics such as resume building, effective job searching techniques, and interview preparation, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed for successful employment.

Individuals with expertise in various industries, including accounting, marketing, technology, construction trades, sales, and customer service, will

discover a multitude of employment prospects.

More than a dozen employers eagerly anticipate connecting with skilled job seekers during the event.

Employers interested in participating in the job fair are encouraged to get in touch with the Chamber via phone or email, and there are sponsorship opportunities available for interested parties.

The fair is being organised by the Executive Committee of R3CCI, led by its President, Premendra Parsan and includes Vice President, Dr Haimwant Persaud; Secretary, Bhabita Sookraj; Treasurer, Lalta Digamber; Assistant Secretary/Treasurer, Richard Sukhdeo; Public Relations Officer, Theon Alleyne and committee members, Ryan Boodhoo and Kishore Basdeo.

The committee promises that the initiative will be a valuable platform for employment and professional growth.

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Demand for power projected to jump to 236 megawatts in 2024 – Min Indar …50% increase over 2020

T

he demand for electric power is being driven by the massive developments that are unfolding, and the Guyana Power and Light has projected that a whopping 236 megawatts of electricity would be needed in 2024.

When the Government entered office in 2020, there was a demand for 120 megawatts of electricity. This grew to 136 megawatts in 2021; 156 megawatts in 2022; and then peaked at 184 megawatts in 2023. This year’s peak was recorded when all industrial customers were on the grid.

Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar, on Thursday, during a press conference, projected that the demand for power would meet 236 megawatts next year. This means that in less than five years, power demand would have increased by almost 50 per cent. According to the Minister, plans will be set in motion to adequately cater for

this demand.

“We will have the generation to see the kind of demand that we’re seeing now, but we also have to prepare for next year too. So, we are looking forward to that,” Minister Indar zeroed in.

Power usage peaked this year after many self-generating consumers migrated to the public grid in a bid to capitalise on the lower power costs – an advantage of Government subsidies to keep the cost-of-living stable.

Currently, there are 557 consumers who are capable of self-generating. They are otherwise classified as ‘Class D’.

These would consume about 30 per cent of the total power generated for the entire grid. They have since been removed from the grid at peak hours in order to cater to the common households. In taking them off the grid, Minister Indar relayed, it has helped to reduce blackouts.

GPL has about 224,000

Rapid development counts among the major reasons for increasing demand Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar

customers in total, with a current demand of 172 megawatts. With a capacity of about 167 megawatts, thousands of customers still face disruptions. To meet current demands, Government has invested in a US$27 million arrangement to purchase generating sets which can provide an additional 28.9 megawatts to the grid by December.

As such, the reliable output

would be around 203 megawatts of power.

GPL was also expected to meet with management of the Giftland Group on Friday to determine whether power could be purchased again from the Group. Under a power purchasing agreement entered into in 2020, Giftland started to supply the GPL grid with electricity. It had a system that produced 6.7 megawatts of electricity, five megawatts of which were HFO [heavy fuel oil] fuelled, but it was only uti-

lizing 1.6 megawatts during prime operations at the mall.

As such, the Government had tapped into Giftland’s excess power supply to boost the capacity of the GPL grid until that arrangement expired.

It has been reported that with the rapid expansion of the housing programme, the creation of new infrastructural projects, and the overall expansion of the economy, a higher output of electricity remains critical. These interim arrangements are being made

by the Government until the 300-megawatt gas-to-energy plant comes onstream in 2025.

When the gas-to-energy project comes online, Guyana could save between US$150 million and US$200 million in foreign currency that would otherwise have been invested in the country’s fuel importation.

The scope of Guyana’s gas-to-energy project consists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil.

It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that would be run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

(G-12)

18 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police intercept 2 boats with 19 Venezuelan migrants at Moruca – taken to Mabaruma for interrogation; likely to be deported

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olice in the Region One (Barima-Waini) SubDivision of Moruca on Thursday evening intercepted two boatloads of Venezuelan migrants in local waters.

Guyana Times was told that there was a total of 19 Venezuelans in the two boats – eight in one boat and 11 in the other, with only one female among them.

The majority of these persons are between the ages of 25 to 30 years and none of them had any proper documentation.

This publication understands that the boats were captained by Guyanese, who were hired to transport the Spanish-speaking persons to Charity on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

They were incepted sometime around 18:30h at the Moruca Waterfront area.

Reports are that one of the boats had stopped at the waterfront in Moruca to buy ration (groceries). At the time, Police officers from the Moruca Station, which is located nearby, were at the

waterfront and observed the vessel.

The ranks intercepted the vessel, and upon realising that there were Venezuelan nationals in it, contact was made with the Divisional Headquarters in Mabaruma. The officers were then informed that based on intelligence received, there were two vessels transporting Venezuelans.

Based on that infor-

mation, the Police officers teamed up with ranks from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and they went out into the Moruca River, where they intercepted the second vessel that was in the water awaiting the return of the other boat.

The two Guyanese boat captains told investigators that they were hired to transport these Venezuelans to Charity.

Corentyne man dies 1 week after being struck down by Police officer

Nevertheless, this publication was told that the two captains along with the 19 Venezuelans were transferred on Friday morning to the Mabaruma Police Station, where they were processed and interrogated.

“We’re conducting investigations to find out who’re bringing these persons here and for what reasons; and whether if they’re being trafficked,” a source close to the investigation explained.

This newspaper further understands that these persons will likely be sent back to their home country.

Only last Saturday, another set of Venezuelan migrants arrived in Essequibo in three buses and made a stop in Anna Regina, where they disembarked and were reportedly processed by Police.

However, on Sunday, Region Two Police Commander Khemraj Shivbarran told Guyana Times that the migrants were no longer in the region, but were transported to the North West District in Region One. In recent weeks, Venezuelans have been entering Guyana’s territory in droves, fleeing harsh economic conditions in their homeland in search of better-

ment here. But the increased influx of Venezuelans in Guyana is sparking widespread public concern here, especially as it relates to security given the heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuelan over the ongoing border controversy.

In August, President Dr Irfaan Ali indicated that his Government is cautious of the possibility of foreign agents infiltrating the country under the guise of being migrants but noted that systems are in place to ensure the nation’s national integrity remains protected.

Meanwhile, only Thursday, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo reminded that most of the Venezuelans coming here are persons who have connections, mainly through their parentage, and are coming here with little to nothing because they believe they can have a better life in Guyana.

“The majority of them who are here come from that; they’re cut from that cloth. They’re our people.

They have Guyanese blood.

So, we have to treat them [better]… We don’t know their hardship,” the VP stressed.

Jagdeo, however, acknowledged that there are some Venezuelans with

no connections here coming here. He pointed out that while they too are entitled to the protection of the State, the Government is still mindful that there could be elements that are coming here with nefarious intentions. But he argued that mistreatment cannot be meted out to all the Venezuelan migrants over fear of infiltration by a few who could potentially threaten Guyana’s sovereignty.

The Vice President’s remarks came on the heels of the inhumane treatment of Venezuelan migrants. He warned that such actions can affect the safety of those Guyanese who are still living in Venezuela.

A video circulating on social media had shown two migrants, accused of being thieves, being bullied into stripping and walking the road. The Guyana Police Force has since arrested a 37-year-old man of Peters Hall, East Bank Demerara, over the matter.

According to VP Jagdeo, such treatment of Venezuelan migrants is “totally reprehensible” and will not be tolerated. He noted that the suspect in this matter will face “serious consequences” for his actions. (G-8)

Fire destroys interior of N/A house

The area where the accident occurred

Dead: Walter Jhondu

O

ne week after he was allegedly struck down by a Police officer at Bengal Village, Corentyne, a pensioner succumbed to his injuries. The dead man has been identified as 73-yearold Walter Jhondu of Epsom Village, Corentyne.

He reportedly took his last breath on Thursday while receiving medical attention at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Based on reports received, at the time of the accident, the officer was reportedly driving a minibus and was proceeding along the Bengal Public Road while the now dead man was riding his pedal cycle.

The officer claimed that in the process of passing the pedal cyclist, he sounded his horn but the pensioner made a sudden turn and ended up in the path of the minibus. He stated that he felt an impact on the front right portion of the vehicle and immediately stopped.

Upon checking, he saw the injured pedal cyclist lying on the ground. The injured pensioner was picked up and taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he was treated and admitted as a patient in the male surgical ward. He remained there until his demise on Thursday.

The now dead man’s wife, Ginnet, told Guyana Times that her husband had related what transpired on the day of the accident.

“He say that he ride out from the backdam when dem done pick watermelon and done sell… he tell me that he see the bus ah come full speed from the back and when the bus reach close, he knock he and he fall down. After he fall down, he ent know nothing more. That is what he tell me,” the woman related.

She added that contrary to the Police report, after the accident, the driver of the bus took her husband home and it was she who took him to the hospital.

The grieving woman said there was a double fracture to one of his legs in addi-

tion to internal injuries.

The woman said she reported the incident to the Police and was surprised that it was one week later that officers visited her, only after her husband had passed.

In fact, even though the accident was reported to the Police, they did not attempt to contact the victim during the one week he was hospitalised.

“Me go station and me make one report and dem say dem gon send one Police fo tek statement.

When me ask he, he tell me that nobody nah go to he at the hospital.”

She referred to her late husband as hard-working while explaining that he would ensure that they lived comfortably.

Jhondu said she has not heard from the driver or even a relative of his since the accident. She is hoping that the two parties can meet and address the issue of compensation.

But according to the Police, the minibus driver is in custody and he is assisting with the investigation. (Andrew Carmichael)

A

Occupant Jenny Sulker

n early morning fire severely damaged the interior of a house occupied by a single mother and her three children at Mount Sinai, New Amsterdam, on Friday.

The fire was reported shortly before 10:00h.

The fire reportedly started at about 10:00h but at the time, the occupants Jenny Sulker and her children - were not at home.

The self-employed woman said she was alerted of the fire and by the time she arrived at the scene, firefighters were battling the blaze.

According to the 40-year-old woman, she was told that the initial fire was seen in the kitchen area of the two-bedroom concrete one-flat building.

“When ah come they were putting out the fire and I asked, ‘how the fire start?’, and they told me maybe it is electricity.”

The interior of the house after the fire

The occupants at the house after the fire

She added that it was surprising that the fire started in the kitchen area.

“When I finish cooking in the morning, I would always turn off the gas stove.

When I left everything was off.”

Sulker, who operates a small retail business from her home, estimates her losses to be in excess of $1 million. she explained that she had $150,000 in cash at home, which she had collected from IPED to invest

in her business.

“My daughter works at the bank and if she carried the money to put in the bank then she would have to answer questions as to where she got the money from, so that is why I had the money at home,” she said.

The house was built seven years ago. Sulker is, however, seeking the public’s assistance. She can be contacted at telephone number 692-8384.

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

19

Regional

Colombia, neighbours to Health authorities in J/ca to jointly push 6 key points clamp down on unregulated dental practices in COP28 – Minister

H

C

olombia and its neighbours will together push six key themes at this year's UN climate conference, including help adapting to global warming and swapping debt for climate mitigation, the country's Environment Minister Susana Muhamad said on Friday.

The United Nations 28th meeting on climate, known as COP28, takes places from Nov 30 to Dec 12 in Dubai.

Latin American countries will arrive ready to push for common goals thanks to regional meetings earlier this year, Muhamad told Reuters.

"Latin America has traditionally negotiated separately, but we're going to start seeing ourselves represented on some points of agreement and negotiate together," she said.

As well as pushing for help adapting to climate change, Latin American countries will call for the Region to be covered by early warning systems to save lives amid disasters due to climate change, she said.

A pledge in 2009 by rich

Colombia's Environment Minister Susana Muhamad speaking during a press conference in Bogota, Colombia July 12, 2023

countries to provide US$100 billion per year in climate finance to poorer nations is a fraction of what is needed, Muhamad added, saying she would not fixate on numbers.

"I wouldn't settle on a figure, but rather that mechanisms be made available for the scale of the problem," she said.

Separately Colombia will push for a multilateral agreement to phase out fossil fuels, Muhamad said, without giving a deadline, though she recognised the

effort will likely not be very popular.

"The north's position is that there will always be hydrocarbons and that if we can reduce emissions this will be sufficient (to solve) climate change. Colombia says it won't be enough," Muhamad said.

The Minister warned Colombia's deforestation could increase this year amid the El Nino phenomenon, which causes drier weather, despite progress in halting destruction in 2022.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

ealth authorities are moving to clamp down on unregulated and unhygienic dental practices, says Chief Dental Officer in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr Irving McKenzie.

Noting that there is a major health problem with “false braces,” he said establishments operating outside the rules laid down by the Dental Council of Jamaica (DCJ), will have to comply with the law or have their businesses closed.

“We are working to fix it. We are working with the Police; we have engaged the Companies Office of Jamaica, because many people have registered companies and they are not dentists, and we will be shutting down those companies,” McKenzie said, while addressing a recent Oral Health Virtual Town Hall Meeting.

He pointed out that public health officers are part of the drive, noting that “people’s lives are at risk” when people have all “kinds of things in your mouth that are not steril-

Chief Dental Officer in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr Irving McKenzie

ised. You don’t know where these people come from, and they are unregulated”.

Stressing that the damage caused by the illegal operators has been noticed, the Chief Dental Officer said prosecution is part of the clampdown, and if those in breach of the regulations are interested in dentistry, “we can guide them, because there is a way to do things right”.

He outlined that his office is very strong on public education to ensure that good dental practices are maintained, noting that

sugar and poor oral hygiene are the two “major causes” of dental diseases in Jamaica.

To ensure the delivery of dental services of the highest professional standards, and in keeping with best practices in dentistry, the Dental Council of Jamaica has mandated that, as in the case of dentists, all dental auxiliaries are required to obtain annual practising certificates and complete the requisite Continuing Education Credits.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

and immunocompromised individuals (people with a weakened immune system) are at an increased risk of shingles and associated complications.

Nnanya Kalu MD, PhD, Medical Director Shingles GSK United States, conveys on this statement from the CDC, “About 10% to 18% of people who get shingles will experience postherpetic neuralgia, or PHN which is nerve pain that lasts for months or years after the rash goes away.

Another complication of shingles involving the

eye known as Herpes zoster ophthalmicus occurs in 10%-25% of zoster episodes and can lead to vision loss in rare cases.

Vaccination can help decrease the incidence of shingles and its complications within an aging and vulnerable population and mitigate long-term treatment costs.

This vaccine, with a two-dose application schedule, achieves long-lasting immunity and protects people from the risks associated with this debilitating disease.

(Trinidad Guardian)

Honduras recalls ambassador Shingles vaccine launched in T&T to Israel for consultations

H

o n d u r a s ' Government is recalling its ambassador to Israel for consultations due to the humanitarian situation affecting Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, the country's top diplomat announced on social media on Friday.

"Amid the grave humanitarian situation the Palestinian civilian popu-

lation suffers in the Gaza Strip, the government of President Xiomara Castro has decided to immediately call Mr Roberto Martinez, Ambassador of the Republic of Honduras in Israel, to consultations in Tegucigalpa," Foreign Minister Enrique Reina said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The decision from leftist President Castro's

Government follows similar moves from likeminded peers in the Region earlier in the week.

Chile's Gabriel Boric and Colombia's Gustavo Petro also recalled their countries' ambassadors to Israel for consultations over events surrounding the conflict in Gaza, while Bolivia moved to sever diplomatic ties to Israel. (Reuters)

Mexico reports first outbreak of H5N1 bird flu on poultry farm

M

exico reported its first outbreak this season of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu on a farm, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) said on Thursday, just a month after Mexico declared it was free of the disease.

The outbreak detected in the northwestern state of Sonora killed 15,000 of a flock of 90,000 laying hens, and the remaining birds were slaughtered, the Parisbased WOAH said, citing Mexican authorities.

"The first outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 of this season was reported in a poultry production unit in the municipality

of Cajeme, Sonora," WOAH said in a report.

It added the subtype of the virus found is H5N1, which is not dangerous to humans through meat or egg consumption.

Mexico's Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement on Wednesday that there was a quarantine in place to prevent the spread.

The Ministry also said that the disease had been detected on another farm three kilometres away, which housed 54,000 birds, where disinfection was underway.

Mexico is one of the top 10 largest chicken meat producers in the world, but exports less than 1% of its chicken meat, according to US agen-

cy GAIN. Still, the spread of the highly contagious virus is raising concern among governments and the poultry industry after ravaging flocks worldwide in previous years, disrupting supply, fuelling food prices and posing a risk of human transmission.

Russia, South Africa and parts of Eastern Europe have also reported concentrated outbreaks of the virus in recent months.

Mexican animal safety authorities early last month had confirmed the first case of H5N1 avian influenza in a wild bird after declaring the country's poultry farms free of the virus earlier in the day. (Excerpt from Reuters)

T

rinidad & Tobago has welcomed Herpes Zoster (HZ) vaccine which represents a significant milestone in protecting the health of the population by offering an effective way to prevent reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV), which can cause Herpes Zoster.

Herpes Zoster (HZ), commonly called shingles, is a painful disease that is estimated to affect one in three people during their lifetime.

Immunocompetent adults ? 50 years of age

Region urged to step it up on green energy

C

a r i b b e a n Development Bank (CDB) President Dr Hyginus “Gene” Leon is admonishing the Region for not making more use of renewable energy initiatives.

He was speaking at Day 2 of the inaugural Caribbean Energies and Investment Summit, held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre.

“Allow me to highlight two examples of transformative opportunities, one

immediate and another long term. The first is the opportunity to promptly ‘green’ Government buildings and facilities. Given the clear commitments of governments for energy transition, the abundance of solar energy resources in all Caribbean countries, and the maturity of solar photovoltaic, battery energy storage technologies, and micro/mini wind turbines, I ask the question ‘Why are all Government buildings and facilities not

powered from renewable sources?’

“The potential fiscal benefits are tremendous since Government facilities represent the single largest electricity user in most Caribbean countries.

The business case is clear and strong and commercial banks want to support these projects. It is one of the few areas where we have sufficient skilled persons and capacity available in the region,” he said. (Nation News)

20

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

Around The World

Israel strikes ambulance in OILNEWS OIL NEWS Gaza City, many reported killed Oil settles down, I

posts weekly loss as geopolitical risk premium ebbs

O

il prices settled more than 2% lower on Friday as supply concerns driven by Middle East tensions eased, while jobs data raised expectations the US Federal Reserve could be done hiking interest rates in the biggest oil consuming economy.

Brent crude futures were down US$1.92, or 2.3%, to US$84.89 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell US$1.95, or 2.4%, to US$80.51 a barrel.

Both benchmarks settled down more than 6% on the week.

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, speaking for the first time since the Israel-Hamas war erupted, warned on Friday that a wider conflict in the Middle East was possible but did not commit to opening another front on Israel's border with Lebanon.

"The market is taking this conflict in its stride, as it looks to be neither a significant demand or supply disruption event," said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York.

US job growth slowed more than expected in October, official data showed, while wage inflation cooled, pointing to an easing in labour market conditions.

The data bolstered the view that the Federal Reserve need not raise interest rates further.

The Fed held interest rates steady this week, while the Bank of England kept rates at a 15-year peak, supporting oil prices as some risk appetite returned to markets.

But a private sector survey on Friday showed that while China's services activity expanded at a slightly faster pace in October, sales grew at the softest rate in 10 months and employment stagnated as business confidence waned.

The data followed a reading from the National Bureau of Statistics on Wednesday that showed China's manufacturing activity unexpectedly contracted in October.

On the supply side, Saudi Arabia is expected to reconfirm an extension of its voluntary oil output cut of 1 million barrels per day through December, based on analyst expectations.

The US House of Representatives easily passed a Bill to bolster sanctions on Iranian oil in a strong bipartisan vote, but it was unclear how effective the legislation would be if signed into law.

While Congress can pass sanctions legislation, such measures often come with national security waivers that allow presidents discretion in applying the law.

China could also continue to import the oil despite new sanctions.

US energy firms this week cut the number of oil and natural gas rigs operating to their lowest since February 2022, energy services firm Baker Hughes said on Friday. (Reuters)

srael struck an ambulance in Gaza City on Friday that it said was carrying militants, but which health authorities in the Hamascontrolled enclave said was evacuating wounded people from the besieged north to the south of the territory.

Ashraf al-Qidra, spokesperson for the Health Ministry in Gaza, said the ambulance was part of a convoy that Israel targeted leaving al-Shifa Hospital, adding that "a big number" were killed and wounded but without giving figures.

Qidra said Israel had targeted the convoy of ambulances in more than one location, including at al-Shifa Hospital gate and at Ansar Square a kilometre (0.6 miles) away.

Israel's military said it had identified and hit an ambulance "being used by a Hamas terrorist cell" in the battle zone.

It said a number of Hamas fighters had been killed in the strike and accused the group of transferring both militants and weapons in ambulances.

It gave no evidence to support its assertion that the ambulance was linked to Hamas but said in a statement it intended to release additional information.

World Health Organisation DirectorGeneral Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a social media post he was "utterly shocked by reports of attacks on ambulances evacuating patients", adding that patients, health workers and medical facilities must be protected.

Earlier on Friday, Qidra said ambulances would send critically injured Palestinians who urgently need to be taken to Egypt to be treated from besieged Gaza City to the south of the enclave.

Palestinians who were wounded after a convoy of ambulances was hit are assisted at Shifa hospital in Gaza City, November 3, 2023

Israel, which has accused Hamas of concealing command centres and tunnel entrances in al-Shifa hospital, ordered all civilians to leave the north of Gaza last month and its military encircled the

area on Thursday.

Despite its order for civilians to leave northern areas of Gaza, Israel's military has continued to bombard the south of the strip as well.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia's biggest drone strike in weeks hits Ukrainian infrastructure

R

ussia launched a massive drone attack early on Friday, hitting critical infrastructure in the west and south of Ukraine and destroying private houses and commercial buildings in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city, officials said.

The air force said it shot down 24 "Shahed" drones out of 40 launched by Russia, the biggest drone attack in weeks to target Kharkiv in the northeast, Odesa and Kherson in the south and the region of Lviv on Ukraine's border with Poland in the

west.

One X-59 missile was also shot down, the air force said.

"We realise that as winter approaches, Russian terrorists will try to do more damage. We will respond to the enemy," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said of the attack, adding that air defences had been active in 10 different regions.

Officials say Ukraine is bracing for a second winter of Russian air strikes on the energy system, which they warn is more vulnerable than it was last year as it has

less excess capacity and little in the way of spare equipment.

The air force said the latest drones were launched in several waves and flew to different regions in small groups. Air alerts in some regions lasted for several hours during the night.

Oleh Synehubov, Kharkiv's governor, said drones had hit civilian infra-

structure and caused fires in and near the city of Kharkiv.

He said eight people, including two children, required medical help due to acute stress.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said eight private houses, a three-storey building, several cars, and a car repair shop were damaged during the attack on Kharkiv.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Six killed as 'unprecedented' Dozens killed in fire at Iranian drug rehab centre India's New Delhi downpours swamp blanketed by toxic Italy's Tuscany A haze, world's most polluted city again S

t least 32 people have been killed in a fire that tore through a drug rehabilitation centre in northern Iran, authorities have said.

The blaze erupted early on Friday in Langarud, a city in the Caspian Sea province of Gilan north of Tehran.

Esmail Sadeghi, a provincial chief justice, told local media that 16 others were taken to hospital.

Iran imposes a death penalty on repeat drug smugglers and dealers but runs a series of rehab programmes for addicts.

An initial investigation showed that a heater was the cause of the fire, which then spread to the rest of the centre, the province's deputy governor was quoted as saying by the semi-official Fars news agency.

"The manager and other possible culprits have been arrested so that the cause of the incident is more accurately determined," the Tasnim

news site said.

The centre accommodated up to 40 people.

However, the province's deputy governor Mohammad Jalai said that it was overcrowded, which contributed "to the high number of casualties".

Iran has one of the world's highest rates of opiate use and sits on a major smuggling route for opium from Afghanistan - a major producer of illicit drugs.

A UN world drug report this year said that Iran made up 47% of the global heroin and morphine seizures originating from Afghanistan during 2020.

Amnesty International said in a June report that Iran had executed at least 173 people convicted of drug-related offences this year after "systematically unfair trials".

The figure was nearly three times more than this time last year, the rights group added. (Excerpt from BBC News)

I

ndia's capital New Delhi was wrapped in a thick layer of toxic haze on Friday and some schools were ordered closed as the air quality index (AQI) plummeted to the "severe" category.

New Delhi again topped a real-time list of the world's most polluted cities compiled

by Swiss group IQAir, which put the Indian capital's AQI at 640 in the "hazardous" category on Friday, followed by 335 in the Pakistani city of Lahore.

Regional officials said a seasonal combination of lower temperatures, a lack of wind and crop stubble burning in neighbouring farm states had caused a spike in air pollutants.

Many of New Delhi's 20 million residents complained of irritation in the eyes and

itchy throats with the air turning a dense grey as the AQI hovered around 480 in some monitoring stations.

An AQI of 0-50 is considered good while anything between 400-500 affects healthy people and is a danger to those with existing diseases.

"In my last 24 hours duty, I saw babies coughing, children coming with distress and rapid breathing," Aheed Khan, a Delhi-based doctor, said on social media platform X. There were fewer people in the city's parks such as Lodhi Garden and India Gate, popular with joggers.

Residents snapped up air purifiers. One service centre for the appliances said there was a shortage of new filters and fresh stocks were expected on Monday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

ix people died and two were missing after rivers burst their banks following torrential overnight rain in the central Italian region of Tuscany, local authorities said on Friday.

There had been fears that the River Arno could flood the historic city of Florence after nearby towns were swamped by the southern edge of Storm Ciaran, but the high water point passed in mid-morning without major incident.

"The situation is still very critical," Monia Monni, regional councillor for civil protection, told Reuters, referring especially to Campi Bisenzio, a town about 15 kilometres (9 miles) north-west of Florence. "(Elsewhere), the water has drained away but there is mud and the devastation that an event like this leaves behind", Monni added.

Around 190 people have been forced to evacuate their homes, including 150

in Campi Bisenzio, where ground floor properties were damaged, parked cars were half-submerged and rescue officials navigated flooded streets with rubber dinghies.

The Italian Government declared a state of emergency and allocated an initial 5 million euros (US$5.4 million) to help the worst-hit areas.

Around 48,000 people in the region had no electricity, Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini told a news conference.

Tuscany President Eugenio Giani said the region had never seen so much rain in such a short space of time.

Speaking to Sky TG24 news channel, he said experts told him it was the worst downpour in 100 years.

"What happened overnight in Tuscany has a clear name: CLIMATE CHANGE," Giani wrote on X. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

21

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

A personal adjustment will give you the boost you need to bring about positive change. Channel your energy into improving a meaningful relationship.

(March 21-April 19) Don’t let your emotions lead you astray. You stand to make gains if you are diligent, ask questions and follow through with your plans. Physical improvements and romance are favored.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Be careful while handling tricky situations. Don’t commit to something without getting all the details. Question anyone who is overtly trying to push you in a questionable direction.

(May 21-June 20) Plan to have fun. Participation will lead to valuable introductions and information that can help you contribute to a cause that concerns you. Your input will be appreciated.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Don’t share too much information.

Listen so you can clearly understand what’s possible. Refuse to let anyone lead you astray. Put your energy where it can do some good.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Pursue what makes you happy.

Engage in conversations with like-minded people and you’ll discover how best to pursue your dreams. A change in location or ambition will ease your mind.

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

Take a moment to review your accomplishments and to reassure yourself of your worth. Show confidence and refuse to give anyone a chance to make you look or feel bad.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Control your emotions; if you overreact, you’ll encounter opposition. Spend more time honing your skills, nurturing meaningful relationships and diversifying your skills to fit trends.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Address financial matters and contracts. Look for a different way to save money, and focus on solid investments and personal security. Do not jeopardize your reputation.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Don’t fold under pressure. You’ve got more going for you than you realize.

Stand tall and do your own thing. Your intuition won’t mislead you. Believe in yourself.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Listen and observe. Gather information and figure out what’s possible and what to avoid. Refuse to let someone prompt you to overreact or say something you shouldn’t.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Emotional spending, bad investments and temptation will be your downfalls. Pay attention to detail and keep important things safe. Follow your intuition and don’t reveal much.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

22

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

SCOREBOARD Pakistan A Women (20 ovs maximum) Shawaal Zulfiqar lbw b Fraser 0 Eyman Fatima c Zaida James b Claxton 10 Gull Feroza c †Williams b Grimmond 6 Omaima Sohail c Fraser b Munisar 27 Kaynat Hafeez c D Joseph b Grimmond 1 Sidra Nawaz † not out 54 Rameen Shamim (c) not out 6 Extras (b 1, w 7) 8 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 5.60) 112/5 Did not bat: Anosha Nasir, Tasmia Rubab, Saima Malik, Humna Bilal Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-21, 3-21, 4-23 BOWLING O-M-R-W Cherry-Ann Fraser 2-0-6-1 Sheneta Grimmond 4-1-11-2 Jahzara Claxton 3-0-14-1 Qiana Joseph 4-0-25-0 Nyia Latchman 3-0-20-0 Ashmini Munisar 2-0-17-1 Zaida James 2-0-18-0 West Indies A Women (T: 113 runs from 20 ovs) Qiana Joseph c Kaynat Hafeez b Humna Bilal

Shabika Gajnabi c Rameen Shamim b Tasmia Rubab 5 Rashada Williams (c)† b Saima Malik 21 Djenaba Joseph c Rameen Shamim b Anosha Nasir 15 Shunelle Sawh run out (Anosha Nasir) 10 Zaida James c †Sidra Nawaz b Omaima Sohail 4 Sheneta Grimmond c †Sidra Nawaz b Omaima Sohail 3 Cherry-Ann Fraser c Rameen Shamim b Humna Bilal 18 Jahzara Claxton b Rameen Shamim 9 Ashmini Munisar b Humna Bilal 6 Nyia Latchman not out 2 Extras (b 2, w 5) 7 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 5.00) 100 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-18, 3-36, 4-44, 5-50, 6-59, 7-63, 8-92, 9-93, 10-100 BOWLING O-M-R-W Humna Bilal 3-0-17-3 Tasmia Rubab 2-0-10-1 Rameen Shamim 4-0-21-1 Anosha Nasir 4-0-20-1 Saima Malik 4-0-15-1 Omaima Sohail 3-0-15-2

0

WIW “A” open T20I Tri-Series with 12-run loss to Pakistan “A” W

est Indies “A” Women opened their T20I Tri-Series against Pakistan “A” Women and the Thailand Emerging Team with a 12-run loss to hosts Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday.

The West Indians first restricted the hosts to 112-5 from their 20 overs, after winning the toss and bowling first. Sidra Nawaz hit an unbeaten 54*, while Omaima Sohail (27) and Eyman Fatima (10) were the only other

Windies Women won the toss and elected to field first

Pakistan batters to get to double figures.

Sheneta Grimmond took 2-11 from her four

overs for the West Indies.

The West Indian chase then got off to the worst possible start, with Qiana

ICC World Cup 2023: Afghanistan vs Netherlands…

AFGHANISTAN BOOST SEMIFINAL CHANCES WITH BIG WIN

– courtesy of Nabi, Shahidi, Rahmat

T

he Netherlands were undone by four runouts, a stumping, and a spin chokehold in Lucknow, as Afghanistan improved their outside chances of making the semi-finals with a fourth win in seven games, this time also boosting their net run-rate along with it.

Their 111-ball win chasing 180 was swiftly wrapped up, courtesy of 52 from Rahmat Shah and 56 from Hashmatullah Shahidi; but the meat of the action took place in the first half, when Afghanistan bowled well in parts, but were helped along the way by regular errors from the Dutch side.

Netherlands had begun the day with their best batting start of the World Cup: by reaching 72 for 1 in 11 overs, mostly on the back of Max O'Dowd's early assault.

But O'Dowd's search for a second run in the 12th over resulted in his run-out, after Azmatullah Omarzai effected a direct hit from fine leg.

The run-outs then inexplicably continued, as a wellset Colin Ackermann (29) was slow to react to a single call from Sybrand Engelbrecht.

Scott Edwards didn't know where the next ball went after he mishit a reverse sweep, and by the time he realised, wicketkeeper Ikram Alikhil had broken his stumps.

A short squeeze by Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmed and Rashid Khan followed, after which Engelbrecht - the man who was holding the innings together - was run-out, called

by Roelof van der Merwe for a single that wasn't there.

Those four dismissals in similar fashion left Netherlands deflated, and gave Afghanistan an opening they never let go of. With the Dutch sliding from 72 for 1 to 97 for 5, the Afghan spinners held control of the middle overs; which allowed Afghanistan to recover from a

ing Logan van Beek. He held on to catches offered by Bas de Leede and Saqib Zulfiqar, and was swift with his glovework when van Beek gave Nabi a charge. Nabi, for his 3 for 28, was the pick of the bowlers on a day in which Afghanistan dropped Naveen-ul-Haq and added Noor to play with four spinners.

Afghanistan's

Afghan batters were careful against the spin of Aryan Dutt and Zulfiqar.

Rahmat reached his third fifty in a row at the World Cup, and 26th in all ODIs, but was gone caught-and-bowled to the wrong-footed wrist spinner Zulfiqar.

However, Dutch celebration was short-lived when Omarzai counterpunched upon entry and Shahidi held fort. Along the way, Shahidi reached his 19th ODI fifty, and victo-

ry was completed in the 32nd over with the pair staying unbeaten on a stand of 52.

Remarkably, there were no sixes hit in the game.

For Netherlands, a spot at the Champions Trophy in 2025 now looks increasingly difficult, with a top-eight finish at risk with games against England and India to follow.

Afghanistan - now on fifth - have Australia and South Africa coming up, but are still in contention for a semi-final finish. (ESPNCriCinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Rahmat Shah celebrating his third successive fifty this World Cup

difficult start with the ball, wherein they conceded 6.6 per over in the powerplay despite taking the first-over wicket of Wesley Barresi.

Fazalhaq Farooqi, one of only two seamers in the Afghan XI for this game, conceded eight boundaries in the powerplay, a tournament record for the 2023 edition.

Wicketkeeper Alikhil had an impressive outing behind the stumps, contributing to three of the four run-outs, taking two difficult catches off spin bowling, and stump-

chase of 180 began with a stutter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz being out in the fifth over and Ibrahim Zadran gone by the 11th. However, they weren't under run-rate pressure, due to an initial burst of boundaries from #3 player Rahmat. Rahmat was busy in front of square on the off side, and his partnership of 74 in 77 balls with Shahidi kept Afghanistan far ahead in the chase.

Netherlands' seamers weren't penetrative after the shine wore off, and the

Netherlands (50 ovs maximum) Wesley Barresi lbw b Mujeeb Ur Rahman 1 Max O'Dowd run out (Azmatullah Omarzai) 42 Colin Ackermann run out (Rashid Khan/†Ikram Alikhil) 29 Sybrand Engelbrecht run out (Mohammad Nabi/†Ikram Alikhil) 58 Scott Edwards (c)†run out (†Ikram Alikhil) 0 Bas de Leede c †Ikram Alikhil b Mohammad Nabi 3 Saqib Zulfiqar c †Ikram Alikhil b Noor Ahmad 3 Logan van Beek st †Ikram Alikhil b Mohammad Nabi 2 Roelof van der Merwe c Ibrahim Zadran b Noor Ahmad 11 Aryan Dutt not out 10 Paul van Meekeren lbw b Mohammad Nabi 4 Extras (lb 2, w 14) 16 TOTAL 46.3 Ov (RR: 3.84) 179 Fall of wickets: 1-3 (Wesley Barresi, 0.5 ov), 2-73 (Max O'Dowd, 11.3 ov), 3-92 (Colin Ackermann, 18.3 ov), 4-92 (Scott Edwards, 18.4 ov), 5-97 (Bas de Leede, 20.2 ov), 6-113 (Saqib Zulfiqar, 25.3 ov), 7-134 (Logan van Beek, 30.6 ov), 8-152 (Sybrand Engelbrecht, 34.4 ov), 9-169 (Roelof van der Merwe, 41.1 ov), 10-179 (Paul van Meekeren, 46.3 ov) • DRS

BOWLING Mujeeb Ur Rahman Fazalhaq Farooqi Azmatullah Omarzai Mohammad Nabi Rashid Khan Noor Ahmad

O-M-R-W 10-0-40-1 5-0-36-0 3-0-11-0 9.3-1-28-3 10-0-31-0 9-0-31-2

Afghanistan (T: 180 runs from 50 ovs) Rahmanullah Gurbaz c †Edwards b van Beek 10 Ibrahim Zadran b van der Merwe 20 Rahmat Shah c & b Saqib Zulfiqar 52 Hashmatullah Shahidi (c) not out 56 Azmatullah Omarzai not out 31 Extras (lb 3, nb 2, w 7) 12 TOTAL 31.3 Ov (RR: 5.74) 181/3 Did not bat: Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil †, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi Fall of wickets: 1-27 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 5.3 ov), 2-55 (Ibrahim Zadran, 10.1 ov), 3-129 (Rahmat Shah, 22.4 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Aryan Dutt 8.3-0-49-0 Logan van Beek 7-0-30-1 Paul van Meekeren 5-0-35-0 Roelof van der Merwe 5-0-27-1 Saqib Zulfiqar 3-0-25-1 Colin Ackermann 3-0-12-0

Joseph being dismissed off the very first ball, and the team never recovered.

Captain Rashada Williams top-scored with 21, while CherryAnn Fraser made 18 and Djenaba Joseph made 15 as the West Indies were bowled out for 100 off their 20 overs.

Hunma Bilal led the way for the hosts with 3-17 from three overs, while Sohail chipped in with 2-15 from three overs.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

23

Plans unveiled for multi-million-dollar NTC upgrade I n the presence of media operatives, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde, on Thursday November 3, unveiled the final design for the GFF’s National Training Centre (NTC) at Providence, East Bank Demerara – which within three years will be converted into a state-of-theart football facility conducive to hosting international matches.

The revelation ceremony was attended by GFF First Vice President, Brigadier General (retd) Bruce Lovell; representatives of the GFF’s Regional Associations, and Triston Gomes of SRKN Architectural Company, among others. SRKN presented the media with the blueprint for the multi-million-dollar facility.

President Forde noted that the long-cherished vision of establishing a cut-

ting-edge football facility in Guyana is coming to fruition, thanks to the unwavering commitment of all the GFF’s valued partners, including FIFA and Concacaf.

"The construction of the Guyana Football Federation’s first official Home of Football represents the fulfilment of a

commitment we made to the members of the GFF back in 2015. After an extensive and comprehensive design and engineering undertaking, we now have a well-thoughtout facility, accepted and approved by FIFA. We will now enter a new phase of intensive construction activities

Torginol sponsors Stephen Vieira for ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions

T

he Continental Group of Companies, through Torginol Paints Inc., has been confirmed as the exclusive sponsor of Guyanese biker Stephen Vieira for this weekend’s ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions.

Second in the Super Stock class to his cousin Matthew Vieira, Stephen is set to light up the track on his Yamaha R6 as he looks to finish the season on a high.

Stephen is confident that, with the support of Torginol, he can achieve excellence on November 5 at the South Dakota Circuit, and defend home turf against the influx of overseas riders.

On Thursday, Sachin Puri of Torginol Paints Inc., pioneers of the Paint Industry, confirmed the company’s sponsorship of Stephen Vieira during a simple ceremony at Continental Group of Companies’ Head Office at Industrial Site, Ruimveldt.

Puri said: “Through this sponsorship of Stephen, we’re looking to keep growing Guyana’s sports culture.

As you know, we previously had a partnership with the CPL (as the Official Paint).

We’re looking to continue with these activities, growing out the social side of it and getting everybody together to have a good time.

“We want to see Stephen leaving his mark on the track and ‘brushing’ past all his opponents with some good results.”

In expressing gratitude for the support, Stephen Vieira highlighted that Torginol has always been in his corner, and referred to the company as part of his family.

“And I’m very grateful for that,” Vieira commented.

The Superbiker is confi-

to complete this project over the next three years. This is a watershed moment for the entire football fraternity."

Forde has declared.

He said that, already, national and youth teams are using the NTC for training sessions and competitions, and he added that the GFF’s overarching goal is to eventually host international matches that would allow fans to witness the talent of Guyana’s national teams.

"The GFF and our football family are already benefitting from this groundbreaking infrastructure project. Our boys and girls are enjoying weekly Academy Training Centre (ATC) programmes, along with grassroots football and national team training and preparation," he remarked.

The fully operational in-

Snippets of the proposed plans for the NTC’s upgrade to international standard

ternational standard stadium, encompassing top-notch football pitch, modern office spaces, accommodation, state-of-the-art media facilities and fan stands, will be completed in three years’ time.

In early October, President Forde and Second Vice President Rawlston Adams conducted an on-site assessment of the FIFAapproved floodlight installation project at the NTC. The lighting contract has been awarded to Musco Sport

Lighting, a United Statesbased company, which has enlisted the services of Cummings Electrical, a local partner, for specific aspects of the project. Floodlights are expected to be fully operational by early December.

The GFF has said it remains steadfast in its commitment to raising the bar of football in Guyana through extensive training programmes and the construction of cutting-edge facilities for hosting both local and international matches.

KFC hands over funds for 10-team Elite League Cup Sachin Puri (right) of Torginol Paints Inc presenting the company's sponsorship to biker Stephen Vieira

dent in his preparation, and is eager to throw down the gauntlet to the overseas riders coming to represent Team Mohamed’s.

“I’m ready to give my all on race day, and defend home turf; so, come out and see some thrilling and exciting racing,” he said.

Torginol Paints Inc. is also a major corporate partner for ‘the Greatest Race of All Time’, extending an alliance with motorsports that started two decades ago.

With its factory at Industrial Site, Ruimveldt and outlets and distribution centres spread across the country, Torginol Paints Inc manufactures a diversified range of paint and paint-related products for every surface. The products, branded under Torga and Arbo brand names, carry a wide range of quality items, covering decorative, industrial, furniture and other finishes.

Massive support TITLE SPONSOR: ENet PARTNERS: Tropical Shipping, AJM Enterprise, Massy Motors, Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc., Prem’s Electrical, Torginol Paints Inc. and

AmCham Guyana SPONSORS: B.M. Soat Auto Sales and Rentals, Automotive Arts, ECV Investments Limited, Stamina Energy, SBM Offshore, Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire and Life Insurance Companies, John Fernandes, Cyril’s Transportation Service, SOL, Precision Service Centre, Demerara Bank Limited, SVC Inc., Jeep, Tradewind Automotive Inc., Reliance Inc., KOBELCO, Agri Heavy Machinery Inc., Nabi Construction, Readymix and MG Race fans can expect a day filled with high-speed action, nail-biting competition, and unforgettable moments.

This event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about motorsport and looking for a thrilling day at the racetrack.

Racing gets underway at 11:00h on November 5, with rivalry in Group 4, Group 3, Group 2, Starlet Cup, Sports Tuner, Street Tuner and Super Stock and Super Sport bikes.

Pre-sale tickets are available at G$3,000 (adults) and G$1,000 (children).

G

uyana Football Federation (GFF) Competitions Director Troy Peters on Friday, November 3, received funding from KFC Guyana Marketing Manager Pamella Manasseh for the GFFKFC Elite League Cup, which is now in its fourth week of competition.

The handover took place in the boardroom of the KFC Branch at Vlissengen Road in Georgetown.

The six-week tournament kicked off on October 15 with 10 top senior men’s clubs vying for glory and more than three million dollars in cash. The competition has been organised to provide teams with valuable match time as they gear up for the upcoming relegation playoff.

GFF Competitions Director Peters, in thanking KFC Guyana for their continued support to the development of football at the club level, declared, “Once again, KFC has shown their commitment to football development in Guyana. This partnership provides our senior male players with a platform to exhibit their talents, and gives fans the chance to enjoy exhilarating match-

KFC Marketing Manager Pamella presentation to GFF’s Troy Peters

ups between the nation's premier clubs.

“We thank you for your support, and for embracing our vision and goal to elevate the sport.”

Teams have been split into two groups. Group A consists of Guyana Defence Force, Santos, Buxton United, Fruta Conquerors, and Milerock.

Group B comprises of Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force, Den Amstel, Victoria Kings, and Ann's Grove.

The champions will

Manasseh

making

the

be awarded $1.5 million dollars, while the second-place team would receive $1 million. Third and fourth-place clubs would respectively receive $500,000 and $250,000.

On Sunday, November 5, another double-header will be held at the Eve Leary Sports Ground in Kingston, Georgetown, with Victoria Kings Football Club coming up against Den Amstel at 6 pm, and Fruta Conquerors coming up against Guyana Defence Force FC at 8 pm.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023

T

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

eyeing top podium spots at ‘Clash of Champions’ on Sunday

eam Mohamed’s bikers from the United Kingdom (UK) are here for Enet’s “Clash of Champions”, billed for Sunday, November 5, at the South Dakota Circuit; and they are already eying the top three podium spots.

James Westmoreland and Lee Jackson are competing for the first time in Guyana, while Dan Linfoot has ridden for Team

Mohamed’s in the November race meet in 2019. During a brief interview with Guyana Times Sport, the trio declared themselves ready to take on the Guyanese riders on Sunday.

Although being here in Guyana for only a few days, they have been enjoying the humidity, and more so the new and improved race track.

Westmoreland related that this is the first time he is racing in South America, and he is extremely confident ahead of the time trials today.

He noted that the track is fast, and, without a doubt,

yet be competitive.

“We have been setting some lap records already, and come Sunday, I think it will get better…I am looking forward to competing with the Guyanese riders”, he declared.

Meanwhile Linfoot, who had secured podium spots back in 2019, is looking to do the same again this year. He noted that track dynamics have changed from the last time he competed, but said he is impressed with the new layout.

“Back in 2019, we did like 33s lap time on the short track, now we are doing about 1:18s on the bigger circuit… this gives us more time to atFrom L-R: Lee Jackson, Dan Linfoot and James Westmoreland (Photos by Mike Gonsalves) tack and more corners to space out…so, yes, we are ready for he is looking forward to competing with the Guyanese race day,” he said. riders.

With respect to the qual“We just don’t want to compete, ifying time session today, but we want to secure the top he is confident that Team three spots in every race… We Mohamed’s will have the are here to compete, and edge.

Nevertheless, the we will,” he said, adding trio expressed best wishthat racing conditions in es to their competitors the UK are completely as they looked forward different from those in to race day.

Guyana, but he has been The three bikers adjusting quite nicely. will come up against Lee Jackson is also the Guyanese riders, inhere for the first time. He cluding Matthew Vieira, declared that he is enjoying Stephen Vieira, Kevin every bit of the South Dakota Persaud and others, who Circuit, and noted that the layout is have already indicated that incredible and gives the riders more time to they are ready to challenge Team perform at their best. As such, he is looking forMohamed’s riders. ward to Sunday, when the riders will have clean fun

CG United Regional Super50 tournament…

Eagles, Scorpions battle in final push today I

n a virtual dead rubber, the Guyana Harpy Eagles are now facing a critical do-or-die situation with an outside chance of qualifying for the semifinals of the CG United Regional Super50 tournament.

Eagles will come up against reigning champions the Jamaica Scorpions at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy today.

The Eagles are sitting in sixth position with 25 points, and this match is their last in the group stage. A loss will definitely decide their fate; but a convincing win, based on the new points

system, could give them a chance of advancing.

However, it is a long shot, since their advancing would depend on the results of the other matches, as all teams except West Indies Academy have one more match to play.

Despite fielding a strong team on paper, the Eagles are yet to string together a comprehensive performance. It has been a one-man show in most matches, with Sherfane Rutherford (246 runs) and Tevin Imlach (203 runs) being the stand-out batsmen.

Kevin Sinclair has en-

joyed stints of success with both bat and ball. He has accumulated 186 runs and has taken 11 wickets, tying with Gudakesh Motie for the most wickets taken by a Guyanese bowler.

It is evident that the spinners have done their job, with Veerasammy Permaul being the other successful bowler with nine wickets.

Guyana will be without Romario Shepherd, whose contributions as a fast-bowling all-rounder will be direly missed.

Eagles may still be hoping that the likes of Chandrapaul Hemraj,

Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Shimron Hetmyer will come good, each having suffered a less-than-acceptable run in this season. With all to play for, the Eagles are expected to come out with all guns blazing.

Like the Eagles, Scorpions have all to play for, as they aim to break their jinx and register their first win of the season. After six matches, they are on just 7 points, and have no chance of qualifying.

Lack of preparation consistency has also plagued Scorpions, who

came to the party practically venom-less. Chadwick Walton (200 runs), and Nkrumah Bonner with 179 runs and consecutive half-centuries in his last two innings, have fetched the batting line up, while no bowler has taken more than five wickets this season.

And Rovman Powell and Jermaine Blackwood have both failed to deliver inspiring performances, as have both Odean Smith and Fabien Allen.

Should Guyana fail to qualify, the Super50 title would have eluded them for 19 years.

Kevin Sinclair

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