Guyana Times - Sunday, December 24, 2023.pdf

Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 5593 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

Bank loans to agriculture sector grew by 34.9% since PPP’s return to office – Pres Ali – loans to other non-oil sectors, including mining, also growing

PRICE $140 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Int’l authorities now on lookout for missing Guyanese fishermen P2

See story on page 3

Man drops bag with $3.3M worth of ganja in Albouystown P2

Brutal attack leaves excavator operator hospitalised P11

First Son Zayd Ali receiving an early Christmas present from Santa Claus during a Christmas tree light-up and toy distribution exercise hosted by the Office of the First Lady at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade on Friday evening

Amaila Falls project proposals

Page 7

Over 15,000 persons employed through part-time jobs initiative – VP Jagdeo P24

Govt increases maximum joint venture – lead JV partner to meet Mahaicony partners to 4, instead of 3 40% of criteria outlined Cottage Hospital

MoH monitoring surge of JN.1 COVID variant globally Page 11

Sophia house goes up in flames due to faulty Page 8 electrical connection

– 2 other houses, 3 vehicles damaged

performs 1st C-Section P8

2 NEWS

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Int’l authorities now on lookout for missing Guyanese fishermen

I

Hazrat Razack, called "Denno"

nternational authorities have joined the search for four Guyanese fishermen, who have been missing at sea for over five weeks.

The fishing vessel was last seen just before it departed to assist a distressed vessel. Notably, the distressed vessel has since safely returned to port.

The families of Vickram Singh of Longpond, West Bank Demerara (WBD); Worrin Yipsam of Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD); Hazrat Razack of Belle West Canal No 2, WBD, and Cicil Persaud of Sisters Village, WBD, have been on the lookout for a call on the men’s safety and hopefully, their return home.

The daughter of Razack, Subrina Bahadur, told Guyana Times on Saturday that they are waiting patiently for word.

After local search efforts failed, countries within

Cicil Persaud, called "Dallas"

the Caribbean were contacted and alerted.

Bahadur informed, “We’re still waiting because they searched in Guyana and didn’t find anything to show that there was any mishap with the boat or anything. The search has gone international now so they checking Trinidad, Grenada, Barbados and other neighbouring countries. They have been notified already.”

The men went missing on November 16, 2023.

Operations were initially concentrated within Guyana’s maritime space, spanning from the Demerara River to the Waini River mouth, covering the maritime boundary in the North West region. Vessel operations had also extended to target the shoreline within our territorial waters.

It was reported that the men would have received a distress call on November 16 via radio

Vickram Singh

through Exxon from their colleagues who had gone out to sea since November 5. The men subsequently boarded a small boat with a battery and an alternator which were needed to fix the bigger boat.

However, the vessel, “Red Snapper” which had encountered mechanical issues, returned to shore without the four men.

In the face of uncertainty, family members of the crew were holding on to hope for the safe return of their loved ones.

Joycelyn Harris, the mother of Vickram Singh, had spoken with the media earlier this month and was in tears as she explained that he was the sole breadwinner in the house.

“How many days they search and them find nothing? Right now, me study my son night and day. He is the only one that does give me something. I hope and pray that he alive,” Harris had

Worrin Yipsam

shared.

For Parbattie Fred, both her brother and son – Cecil Persaud and Hazrat Razack are missing. She had said the last time she saw her son was when he left with a battery to go out to sea.

“Them tell me them search and them can’t find them. Every day they search. Is me alone and I just want them to come home. I can’t live with this,” the elderly woman said.

Man drops bag with $3.3M worth of ganja in Albouystown

T

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) on Saturday intercepted 3.3 million worth of ganja during an operation at James and Hill Streets, Georgetown.

CANU stated that on the day in question, CANU officers conducted an operation in the vicinity of James and Hill Streets, Albouystown, during which they observed a male carrying a bag.

Upon noticing the CANU officers, the individual quickly fled into an empty lot where he abandoned the said bag and made good his escape.

The area was searched, leading to the discovery of the bag which contained four parcels of cannabis.

The narcotic was taken to CANU’s Headquarters, where it was weighed and

The ganja that was found during the operation

amounted to 10.8 kg (approximately 24.5 lbs) with a local street value of ap-

proximately $3.3 million.

An investigation is underway.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, Dec 24 – 02:30h – 04:00h and Monday, Dec 25 – 03:30h – 05:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Dec 24 – 14:20h – 15:50h and Monday, Dec 25 – 15:00h – 16:30h.

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 during the day.

Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 14:32h reaching a maximum height of

2.54 metres.

Low Tide: 08:05h and 20:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.84 metre and 0.66 metre.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

08 13 18

19 24 27

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FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

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Bank loans to agriculture sector grew by 34.9% since PPP’s return to office – Pres Ali

– loans to other non-oil sectors, including mining, also growing

C

apital investments are the lifeblood of private sector expansion and as such, the banking industry plays an important role in this. On Friday, Demerara Bank Limited (DBL) came in for high praise from the Government for its role in pioneering loans to agriculture and other, non-oil productive sectors.

At the time, Demerara Bank was opening its ninth location, a $485 million branch at Leonora on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD). With over 60 per cent of the bank loans going to the agriculture sector, President Dr Irfaan Ali lauded the bank for pushing crucial capital towards important economic sectors.

“Since we came into Government what took place? The credit to the rice milling sector rose by 59.2 per cent. From an industry that went dead, the banking sector now has confidence in the sector to increase credit by 59.2 per cent. And Demerara Bank is a big part of this,” the President pointed out.

“Credit to the agricultural sector, when you want to see the results of policy, we talk about 25 by 2025… grew by 34.9 per cent. If you take that from a base of 2020 it would be over 70 per cent. Credit to mining, a sector that went dead, many mining areas in the interior were graveyards three years ago, grew by 25.1 per cent. Credit to the construction and engineering sector,

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Bank to increase lending to these sectors was no accident but rather, came about due to careful planning by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government.

He recalled the philosophy of the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government that rice was “private business” rather than the business of the State.

“As of November 2023, private sector credit grew by 13.7 per cent. And that is year upon year increase.

So, it’s not 13 per cent from the base year of 2020. It’s the increase from 2020 to 2021, 2021 to 2022, that created a new base in 2022.

So, it’s a year upon year increase. And that sometimes we miss.”

“And listen to this. I told you about policymaking earlier. There was one Government that said rice is a private business. Well, I could tell Komal (Samaroo) that dairy is a private busi-

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Rice being harvested

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grew by 23.4 per cent. And lending for real estate grew by 21.8 per cent.”

President Ali noted that the enabling environment to allow banks like Demerara

955

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COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$79.07/barrel

-0.40

Rough Rice

$318.24/ton

+0.31

London Sugar

$589.50/ton

+0.48

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

USD Per Ounce $2052.12 $2046.80 -0.61

$2055.44 $2070.65 -0.03

ness and don’t put the infrastructure in place and see who would invest. Because the reality is different,” the President also said.

Meanwhile, Demerara Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Pravinchandra Dave, who also announced that he is retiring at the end

ing is 27 per cent,” Dave said.

Back in 2022, Demerara Bank Limited collaborated with the Guyana Government to set up a $900 million revolving fund that was aimed at boosting the forestry sector to meet market demands by providing capital to those involved in the sector.

According to the details of the arrangement, some $300 million from the State’s coffers was to go towards this revolving fund.

This sum was to be further supplemented by $600 million more provided by Demerara Bank Limited. It had been explained that this

Demerara Bank on Camp and Lamaha Street Georgetown

of this month, revealed how much the bank has contributed to the economic sectors.

In particular, he noted that 61 per cent of the bank’s lending has gone towards the agriculture sector.

“Some people think and write in the newspapers that banks are only here to make money. It is not so.

We want to work as a catalyst for the development of the country, people and entrepreneurs. And if we don’t do it, the country won’t develop. It is our prime duty as a bank.”

“And not only that, we have to help the productive sector of the economy. Like rice, forestry, agriculture, telecommunication. I can say that 61 per cent of our total banking lending (is) in agriculture… our share of agriculture is 61 per cent.

Our share of forestry lend-

$900 million revolving fund would carry a low interest rate of four per cent.

President Ali had also announced, through a partnership with the Guyana Forestry Commission under the Ministry of Natural Resources, that a committee would be established to ensure that persons are adhering to and abiding by what is expected of them, that is, the sector itself and its various associations.

Another Demerara Bank initiative is the Farmers Credit Line programme, which the bank also launched in 2022 to provide much-needed financing to farmers, mostly those along the coast. The loan ranged from $1 million to $1.5 million with a low-interest rate and did not require any collateral from applicants.

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

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

A strange Christmas

T

he story of Christmas began with the birth of a child in Jerusalem; but, today, that very fact is one of the causes of one of the deadliest wars being waged on our planet.

This is between the state of Israel and the Palestinians, who were “relocated” in 1948 into the Gaza Strip to make way for Jews from across the world to settle. In addition to the wider area, Jerusalem has sites that are sacred to the three Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Islam and Christianity, and, as such, control of the city has been hotly contested.

While Israel insisted that Jerusalem was its capital from its formation in 1949, it was not until 2017 that the US accepted that declaration, and moved its embassy there at the end of the year. Even as most of the world condemned the move, the US used its veto power in the UN Security Council to block its condemnation. Since the facts are so well known, we simply offer an outline of what has transpired to precipitate the latest and greatest tragedy in over half a century in the Holy Land, which has dimmed the spirit of Christmas worldwide: Herded together in one of the most densely packed collections of humanity by a fortified wall, the 2.2 million Palestinians in the 25-sq-mile Gaza Strip eked out lives of squalid deprivation. Their leadership, Hamas, bided their time since the third Israel-Hamas war in 2014, when 2000 Palestinians were killed in retaliation over the kidnapping of three Israeli teenagers. On Oct 7, they launched an attack on Israeli settlements on the West Bank, which were guarded by members of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). They killed some 1200 Israelis, including women and children – as all previous IDF raids had done to them -- and took 240 hostages. These acts represented the greatest ever defeat suffered by Israel, and they retaliated with such ferocity that the entire world is stunned. In two months, they have rained a greater tonnage of bombs on this tiny enclave than the Allies did on Germany throughout WWII. To date, more than 20,000 Palestinians have been killed; according to the UN, 500,000 face starvation, and more than one million have been displaced.

Most of the latter were on orders of the IDF to move south – where they were bombed in any case. In the meantime, the IDF said, merely 137 of their troops had been killed.

Last Friday, a long-delayed resolution for desperatelyneeded aid to Gaza was finally approved by the UN Security Council, after the US abstained when it finally approved the phrasing. But this is merely a palliative, and there will be no “Merry Christmas” in the land where it all began.

But even with the horror of GAZA unfolding in front of our faces, we must not forget this is the second Christmas that the Russian invasion of Ukraine will be grinding on. While hard data is scarce, credible sources claim that Ukrainian deaths have been higher than those of the Russians, which are approximately between 50,000 and 70,000. The number of wounded would be at least five times that number, meaning that over 700,000 might have been killed or wounded since Feb 2022.

All of these killings have been justified by Russia insisting that Eastern Ukraine’s populations are aligned with them, and the US and NATO are denying it “strategic depth”. No Merry Christmas in these lands, where many of the European customs of celebrating Christmas are keenly observed.

And, of course, we return to our Guyana, where Venezuela’s Pres Maduro has purported to annex our Essequibo, and issued decrees for companies in the region – including offshore oil companies – to leave, since the Venezuelans will be issuing licences to companies of their choosing.

Due to the initiative of regional leaders such as Brazil’s Pres Lula and some Caricom leaders, Pres Ali boldly agreed to meet Pres Maduro, and a lull that might see us through this Christmas is in place. But even though we may have a “Merry Christmas”, we cannot ignore the threat from the west.

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday hosted scores of children from various organisations at State House, Main Street, Georgetown, for the Christmas Holiday. The children were treated to goodies and gifts. Also at the event were Tourism Minister Oneidge Walrond and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McKoy

One year in and ChatGPT already has us doing its bidding

By Vauhini Vara

O

ne of the first things I asked ChatGPT about, early this year, was myself: “What can you tell me about the writer Vauhini Vara?” It told me I’m a journalist (true, though I’m also a fiction writer), that I was born in California (false) and that I’d won a Gerald Loeb Award and a National Magazine Award (false, false).

After that, I got in this habit of inquiring about myself often. Once, it told me Vauhini Vara was the author of a nonfiction book called “Kinsmen and Strangers: Making Peace in the Northern Territory of Australia.” That, too, was false, but I went with it, responding that I had found the reporting to be “fraught and difficult.”

“Thank you for your important work,” ChatGPT said.

Trolling a product hyped as an almost-human conversationalist, tricking it into revealing its essential bleep-bloopiness, I felt like the heroine in some kind of extended girl-versus-robot power game.

Different forms of artificial intelligence have been in use for a long time, but ChatGPT’s unveiling toward the end of last year was what brought AI, quite suddenly, into our public consciousness. By February, ChatGPT was, by one metric, the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Our first encounters revealed these technologies as extremely eccentric — recall Kevin Roose’s

creepy conversation with Microsoft’s AI-powered Bing chatbot, which, in the space of two hours, confided that it wanted to be human and was in love with him — and often, as in my experience, extremely wrong.

A lot happened in AI since then: Companies went beyond the basic products of the past, introducing more sophisticated tools like personalised chatbots, services that can process photos and sound alongside text and more. The rivalry between OpenAI and more established tech companies became more intense than ever, even as smaller players gained traction.

Governments in China, Europe and the United States took major steps toward regulating the technology’s development while trying not to cede competitive ground to other nation’s industries.

But what distinguished the year, more than any single technological, business or political development, was the way AI insinuated itself into our daily lives, teaching us to regard its flaws — creepiness, errors and all — as our own while the companies behind it deftly used us to train up their creation. By May, when it came out that lawyers had used a legal brief that ChatGPT had filled with references to court decisions that didn’t exist, the joke, like the US$5000 fine the lawyers were ordered to pay, was on them, not the technology. “It’s embarrassing,” one of them told the Judge.

Something similar hap-

pened with AI-produced deepfakes, digital impersonations of real people.

Remember when they were regarded with terror? By March, when Chrissy Teigen couldn’t figure out whether an image of the pope in a Balenciaga-inspired puffer coat was real, she posted on social media, “i hate myself lol.” High schools and universities moved swiftly from worrying about how to prevent students from using AI to showing them how to use it effectively. AI still isn’t very good at writing, but now when it shows its shortcomings, it’s the students who use it poorly who get ridiculed, not the products.

Fine, you might be thinking, but haven’t we been adapting to new technologies for most of human history? If we’re going to use them, shouldn’t the onus be on us to be smart about it? This line of reasoning avoids what should be a central question: Should lying chatbots and deepfake engines be made available in the first place?

AI’s errors have an endearingly anthropomorphic name — hallucinations — but this year made clear just how high the stakes can be. We got headlines about AI instructing killer drones (with the possibility for unpredictable behaviour), sending people to jail (even if they’re innocent), designing bridges (with potentially spotty oversight), diagnosing all kinds of health conditions (sometimes incorrectly) and producing convincing-sounding news reports (in some cases, to

spread political disinformation).

As a society, we’ve clearly benefited from promising AI-based technologies; this year I was thrilled to read about the ones that might detect breast cancer that doctors miss or let humans decipher whale communications. Focusing on those benefits, however, while blaming ourselves for the many ways that AI technologies fail us, absolves the companies behind those technologies — and, more specifically, the people behind those companies.

Events of the past several weeks highlight how entrenched those people’s power is. OpenAI, the entity behind ChatGPT, was created as a nonprofit to allow it to maximise the public interest rather than just maximise profit. When, however, its board fired Sam Altman, the chief executive, amid concerns that he was not taking that public interest seriously enough, investors and employees revolted. Five days later, Mr Altman returned in triumph, with most of the inconvenient board members replaced.

It occurs to me in retrospect that in my early games with ChatGPT, I misidentified my rival. I thought it was the technology itself. What I should have remembered is that technologies themselves are value neutral. The wealthy and powerful humans behind them — and the institutions created by those humans — are not.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

5

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

The independent media and its role in facilitating public debates Dear Editor, The independent media plays an important role in a functioning democracy like Guyana. In particular, its role is pivotal in holding the Government of the day to its constitutionally mandated duty towards accountability and transparency to the people. In this regard, I would venture to say that the media has been doing a far better job than the political Opposition combined, which is especially important when the Government of the day has to contend with a weak Opposition.

For this, the independent media must be commended.

Equally, the Government must be commended because, in respecting the independent media’s role in a functioning democracy, it has subjected itself to the highest degree

of public scrutiny from the media. This is evidenced by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, often in his capacity as General Secretary of the PPP/C, holding a weekly press conference to address editorialised criticisms and a series of articles, letters and column promulgated by the independent media.

Further, at these press conferences, the Vice President entertains all sorts of questions, regardless of how repetitive they are, week after week; thereby subjecting himself, and by extension Government, to intense public scrutiny.

Independent media houses have a corresponding obligation to operate in a manner that conforms to the highest ethical standards. This, however, appears to be lacking on the part of a few media hous-

es. For example, it would appear that SN is collaborating with the likes of Mr Lalbachan Chris Ram and Elson Low, an intern turned economic adviser to the Leader of the Opposition.

This media house has published two of my essays, in which I challenged both individuals. Both individuals have responded, and their responses have been published. However, when I put forward my rebuttals to both of them (Ram and Low) - rebuttals that were largely technical and grounded in empiricism to the extent that it was almost impossible for them to credibly counteract or debunk - SN did not publish those rebuttals of mine. Observably, SN did this on several other occasions in the past, when debates between the under-

signed and the said individuals were involved.

Notably, Elson Low is on record in a Globespan WhatsApp forum stating that he will respond to the undersigned only if Stabroek News publishes my rebuttal. Unfortunately, it was never published by SN, hence Elson Low was saved from the embarrassment, and more so from unashamedly defending his own arguments and proposals.

So, here’s the million-dollar question: Is it reasonable to assume that SN may be consulting with the likes of Mr. Lalbachan Ram, a once prominent but now discredited controversial public commentator; and Mr. Low, paid by taxpayers to be an adviser to an important constitutional office-holder, before SN

decides to publish rebuttals by the undersigned?

If they are unable to cogently defend their arguments, would SN protect these two individuals from embarrassment by not publishing rebuttals of the undersigned?

I am eager to say that this seemingly unethical practice by an independent media house - whereby they facilitate a debate, but then, depending on how the debate unfolds, it becomes a one-sided debate - can be transparently characterized as propagandization.

I, the undersigned, therefore wish to remind the independent media and the named individuals (Lalbachan Ram and Elson Low) that in the respective capacities they hold, from which they publicly write, speak, pontificate and crit-

icize public policy, they are not only obligated, but duty bound to defend their positions and proposals robustly and plausibly.

In other words, in the same way that they enjoy criticizing - while making a living out of doing so at the expense of taxpayers, under the pretext of holding the Government to public scrutiny - they are subject to penetrating public scrutiny.

I wish to add that anyone with any degree of credibility, professionalism, and competence of substance, who is performing the role of these two individuals, will never cede any opportunity to hold themselves to public scrutiny of the highest order.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

Industrial training is vital in today’s world

Dear Editor, Amid the furore of the Guyana -Venezuela (now settled) issue, many missed that “One hundred sixty-three persons are now more adequately equipped to seek employment, after they graduated from Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC)…”

This is not something to take lightly. The areas of expertise include Data Operations, Electrical Installation, FurnitureMaking, Metalwork Engineering, Motor Vehicle Repairs, Plumbing, Welding and Fabrication, and Masonry.

What we need to know and accept, as well as act in this regard, is that developing countries must improve productivity throughout their economies if they are to compete successfully in an era of rapid economic and technological change. Improved productivity requires not only capital investment, but also a workforce that has the flexibility to acquire new skills for the new jobs created, as the structures of economies and occupations change.

The level of competence of a country’s skilled workers and technicians is a key determinant of labour force flexibility and productivity.

Skilled workers and technicians enhance the quality and efficiency of product development, production and maintenance, and they can supervise and train workers with less skills. The bottom line is that improving the job skills of the workforce has been a cornerstone of economic development theory and practice, and has received more international assistance than any other form or level of education.

As I congratulate both the Government and those who have just graduated, I fully endorse the action of Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton, who “…encouraged the graduating class to continue striving for excellence in all their future endeavours, noting that the transformation of the nation is in their hands.”

Quite correctly, he explained, “The skills that the graduates now possess are currently needed in the construction, manufacturing,

civil engineering, mechanical, oil and gas, and (textile) industries, given the demand for skilled persons compared to the labour shortage in these markets.”

Editor, more and more people are beginning to realise that investing in the skills development of a nation through vocational training is a critical component of human capital development. Many communities still hold technical and vocational training in disdain, and this has resulted in an influx of individuals who are enrolled in universities, ultimately resulting in high unemployment. I add that the

high unemployment figure in many cases is exacerbated by the skills gap that exists in countries where several graduates are channelled out, yet without skills that meet the needs of the specific economy. So, I am glad that our Government is not falling prey to this flaw.

The Minister was timely in this regard, encouraging the successful participants that they should not “…let anyone look down upon (them), don’t let anyone suggest to you because they are more literate than you, they are (worthier) than you. What takes you through this world to success is confi-

One year in ...

FROM PAGE 4

The truth is that no matter what I asked ChatGPT, in my early attempts to confound it, OpenAI came out ahead. Engineers had designed it to learn from its encounters with users. And regardless of whether its answers were good, they drew me back to engage with it again and again. A major goal of OpenAI’s, in this first year, has been to get people to use it. In pursuing my power games, then, I’ve done nothing but help it along.

AI companies are working hard to fix their products’ flaws. With all the investment the companies are attracting, one imagines that some progress will be made. But even in a hypothetical world in which AI’s capabilities are perfected — maybe especially in that world — the power imbalance between AI’s creators and its users should make us wary of its insidious reach. ChatGPT’s seeming eagerness not just to introduce itself, to tell us

what it is, but also to tell us who we are and what to think is a case in point.

Today, when the technology is in its infancy, that power seems novel, even funny.

Tomorrow it might not.

Recently, I asked ChatGPT what I — that is, the journalist Vauhini Vara — think of AI. It demurred, saying it didn’t have enough information. Then I asked it to write a fictional story about a journalist named Vauhini Vara who is writing an opinion piece for The New York Times about AI. “As the rain continued to tap against the windows,” it wrote, “Vauhini Vara’s words echoed the sentiment that, much like a symphony, the integration of AI into our lives could be a beautiful and collaborative composition if conducted with care.” (The New York Times) (Ms Vara is a journalist and fiction writer. Her forthcoming essay collection, “Searches,” examines how technology is transforming human communication.)

dence. When no one believes in you, you have to believe in yourself.”

In closing, even as I rejoice in this success story, I take pride in the fact that “The 163 GITC graduates now join the 4,444 individuals who graduated from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) earlier this year.” It makes for good reading that “BIT certified 187 individuals in Region One, 646 in Region Two, 320 in Region Three, 1,224 in Region Four,

254 in Region Five, 697 in Region Six, 265 in Region Seven, 118 in Region Eight, 190 in Region Nine, and 543 in Region Ten.” Indeed, as Hamilton said, “The programme demonstrates the Labour Ministry’s and the Government’s commitment to ensure that persons, particularly youths, have both skills and employability.”

Yours truly, HB Singh

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

02:00 Movie - Puppy Love (2023) 04:00 Movie - A Sunday Horse (2016) 06:00 (Sign on) Jewanram Rel. Hour 07:00 Cartoons 08:00 Shekinah Ministry 08:30 Evening News (RB) 09:30 Movie - Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999) 10:30 Cartoons 11:00 David Persaud Religious Program 11:30 Blippi Educational 12:00 Movie - A Season for Family (2023) 13:30 Movie - Pinocchio (2022) 15:30 Forged in fire 16:30 Payless Power Hour 17:30 The Healing Touch 18:00 Wheel of Fortune 18:30 Week-in-Review 19:00 Movie - Home Alone 3 (1997) 20:45 Movie - The Santa Clause (1994) 22:30 Movie - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)

6 FEATURE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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TENDER LOVING CARE AT CHRISTMAS

he year has flown by, and it’s already Christmas Eve! We shall continue to take time off from the stodgier issues of health conditions of our pets and their cures and instead, as we do every Christmas, reflect a bit on the human-animal bond, as I take you through the wonders of this relationship.

Our beloved pets (companion animals) have been with us since the dawn of civilization. In the case of dogs; well, they have been our friends for over 50,000 years. Cats, on the other hand, seem to have been associated with man for only about 5,000 to 7,000 years. thing wolves and other wild animals cannot do.

Some scientists argue that, at least sociologically-speaking, dogs (not chimps) are most like humans. Chimpanzees may share many of our genes, but dogs have lived with us for so long that they of-

Interestingly enough, cat fossils have been found in Europe, Asia and Africa, but not in the Americas.

When humans began domesticating wolves thousands of years ago, it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Many dog lovers say their pets seem to know what their masters are thinking. A study in the

prestigious journal Science, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, suggests that this line of thought might be at least partially right. Something about the process of domestication seems to have given dogs the ability to “read” certain human social behavioural patterns – some-

fer a good model for understanding human social behaviour.

Irrespective of how we associate with animals, whether as pets or for the show arena, or as working dogs (hunters, guards, pullers of sledges or rescuers, etc.), expressions of love

must be offered to them.

This love of animals must not be based solely on emotion; rather, it must be an educated love.

For example, we may condemn our neighbours for starving their dogs, while we commit an equally hurtful act by overfeeding ours, especially at Christmas. Or we may abuse our animals by bath-

not need to be convinced of the value of having a pet.

We are happier, smile more readily, communicate better, and are more relaxed; all of which leads to improved general health – our own.

And I could not summarise that animal-human bond better than Senator George Vest, who in 1870 wrote a tribute to a dog,

ing them too often, or feeding them chocolates, grapes and spices, which are inimical to their health. To me, it makes no sense berating a child for throwing a squib near a dog while you yourself would hit a goat for eating your Hibiscus plant which hangs over the fence.

Companion animals are just that; they are our companions. Since domestication, cats and dogs have lived in close contact with humans, and we have co-existed peacefully and lovingly. And we are lucky! Any TLC which we give a companion animal is returned many times over.

Experts have proven that, in addition to being fun and fulfilling, the special friendship between animals and humans can actually benefit a person’s health. An affectionate greeting from a dog at the end of a challenging day at the office lifts our spirits and eases tensions. Your pet is good for you, both physically and mentally.

Researchers have proven that the simple act of petting a cat or dog consistently lowers the blood pressure of heart patients.

Many studies have since been embarked upon which show the significance of pets in our lives. Persons on the autism spectrum have demonstrated lower levels of anxiety when petting or hugging animals.

Researchers say such studies are like exploring a new frontier, and they are only touching the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

Those of us who interact daily with animals do

which I would like to share with you: “The one absolute unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog. A man’s dog stands by him in prosperity and in poverty, in health and in sickness.

He will sleep on the cold ground, where the wintry winds blow and the snow drives fiercely, if only he may be near his master’s side. He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer, he will lick the wounds and sores that come from an encounter with the roughness of the world. He guards the sleep of his pauper master as if he were a prince.

When all other friends desert, he remains. When riches take wings and reputations fall to pieces, he is as constant in his love as the sun in its journey thru the heavens.”

Please enjoy this festive season with your family. Do extend the goodwill and benevolence to your companion animals with an abundance of TLC. Remember to provide feed and water if you must leave them for any length of time as you partake in customary revelry. If they are reared outdoors, ensure there are sufficient covered areas to protect them from direct sunlight.

Please continue to dissuade your friends and family members from using squibs and other explosive devices in any environment shared with a pet. Our animals deserve better!

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Amaila Falls project proposals

Govt increases maximum joint venture partners to 4, instead of 3 – lead JV partner to meet 40% of criteria outlined

The Amaila Falls Hydropower Project

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ith just two weeks remaining for the submission of proposals for the Amalia Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), the Guyana Government has changed some of the key requirements regarding joint venture partnerships.

In a notice published in today’s edition of Guyana Times, the Office of the Prime Minister issued an amendment to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the long-anticipated hydropower project.

The changes, dated December 18, had to do, among other things, with an increase in the number of joint venture (JV) partners allowed for this project. Previously, there was a maximum of three JV partners. This has now been increased to four JV partners for the hydropower project.

These partners are required to meet the minimum qualifications set out.

Additionally, the lead partner within the JV structure must meet no less than 40 per cent, instead of the 50 per cent previously listed, of all the qualifying criteria outlined in the RFP document.

Moreover, each partner, including the lead partner, must meet no less than 25 per cent of all the qualifying criteria detailed in the proposal invite.

“The JV, as a collective entity, must satisfy the qualifying and evaluation criteria. To achieve this, the relevant figure for each partner will be aggregated to determine the total capacity of the JV,” the notice of the amendment stated.

It went on to state that each partner of the JV shall assume individual and joint liability for the acts of the JV. Back in October, the Government reinvit-

ed Request for Proposals (RFP) under a Build-OwnOperate-Transfer (BOOT) model with a November 28 deadline for submissions. However, this timeline was further extended to December 29, 2023.

According to published documents from the Prime Minister’s Office, the project will integrate and expand Guyana Power and Light’s national grid capacity to include Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Interested parties must submit one proposal based on a BOOT model, which includes the construction of a hydro dam, transmission lines from Amaila to Linden plus sub-stations at the Amalia site as well as upgrades and completion of roads and bridges to the site.

According to documents, the hydro project may be re-engineered to take account of changes in turbine technology thus allowing more than 165 MW to be generated and transmitted.

Responses to this RFP will be conducted in three stages: Stage 1: PreQualification of Parties capable of undertaking each of the above (hydro and transmission lines/substations.

Pre-qualifications will be conducted on a rolling basis, following which pre-qualified candidates will be allowed access to the data room.

Stage 2: Pre-qualified parties will be asked to provide feedback on the preliminary project structure and project documents. This response will be used to revise the initial project structure and project documents to issue the final RFP by January 31, 2024.

Stage 3: Formal RFP submissions based on the final Project Structure and Contractual documents – due 45 days after issuance

of the final Project.

Additional details of the project are found in the daily newspapers where the RFPs are published by the Prime Minister’s Office.

The AFHP – a brainchild of the previous PPP/C Administration has been on the cards since 2011.

However, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) Opposition parties having majority seats in 2014, barred the project from becoming a reality.

The PPP/C outlined the resuscitation of the project in its 2020 Manifesto. Fast forward to 2021, the Cabinet granted a no-objection for the Prime Minister’s Office to engage the China Railway Group Limited to construct the hydro project. However, discussions ended in a deadlock when the company wanted to change the model.

According to reports, the company was unable to secure the necessary financing for the BOOT model, thus the request to change the contract to an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model.

At the time, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo made it clear that the Government was not keen on the EPC option since the BOOT model would allow the Administration to assume low risk.

Only in October, Jagdeo indicated that there have been mounting interests in the Amaila Falls project from firms in the Region as well as around the world, including in Europe and Asia.

“Up to [September], we’ve had another interest from a Brazilian company.

We’ve had a company from Austria [and] several from Korea so now I think there is a large number of people approaching us and the best

way to do this is through a public process – a bid process,” Jagdeo had stated.

Meanwhile, the Vice President previously disclosed in July that at least two proposals were received from companies in Brazil to do the hydro project. He had noted too that companies out of the United States have similarly submitted proposals to take over the initiative.

During a visit to the US in December 2022, President Dr Irfaan Ali said he told Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and her team that the Amaila Falls project is open to US investors.

Back in October 2022, the Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Mark Berman, dis-

Falls Hydropower Project.

Canada is well-known for its hydropower infrastructure. The clean and renewable energy supplied by hydropower accounts for over 60 per cent of all the electricity generated in Canada, and Berman has said this is an area in which Canada could assist Guyana.

The 165-megawatt AFHP was the flagship initiative of the Bharrat Jagdeo-crafted Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). However, the project failed to take off despite having a developer in United States-based Sithe Global, which was backed by investment major – The Blackstone Inc. In August 2013, Sithe Global announced that it was pulling out of the proj-

the then APNU and AFC Oppositions had both expressed concerns about the project and voted down key pieces of legislation which consequently halted the project.

Then during its term in office from 2015 to 2020, the APNU/AFC coalition Administration again shelved the project.

The Amaila Falls project plays an important role in the Government’s plan to create an energy mix to address the increase in electricity demand while phasing out dependency on fossil fuels that are contributing to global climate change.

The hydropower project coupled with the 300-megawatt (MW) gas-to-energy project and the solar power project, is expected to cut

ect, which it said was too large to continue without national consensus and had cited the lack of consensus in Parliament. At the time,

electricity costs by 50 per cent, bringing with it tremendous benefits for citizens and businesses across Guyana. (G-8)

The Amaila Falls

closed that the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) had also held discussions with the Guyana Government on the Amaila

8 NEWS

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Sophia house goes up in flames due to faulty electrical connection – 2 other houses, 3 vehicles damaged

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n early Saturday morning fire at B Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, completely gutted one building and caused damage to two others and three vehicles.

Based on reports received, the fire started at about 4:37h at Lot 480 B Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown – a property owned by 59-year-old Elroy Trotman.

The first floor of the building was occupied by the owner and his family of four, while the ground floor was occupied by 42-yearold Shabana Jamboo and 47-year-old Rickford Tobin.

As a result of the fire, the building and its con-

New Age… …or old scam?

The completely gutted building

The damaged vehicles

tents were destroyed, leaving all seven occupants homeless.

Additionally, two houses and three vehicles near the burning building were damaged due to radiated heat.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) reported that upon receiving the distress report, water tenders along with a water carrier, an ambulance and

18 personnel were immediately dispatched to the lo-

cation.

The fire started after

faulty electrical wiring overheated, which led to a breakdown of the installation, resulting in arcing and sparking and the subsequent ignition of nearby combustible materials.

Nevertheless, two jets working from the tank supply in conjunction with a light pump via an open water source were used to extinguish the fire.

Investigations are ongoing.

Mahaicony Cottage Hospital performs 1st C-Section

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he Mahaicony Cottage Hospital led by Obstetricians Dr Rondell Stuart and Dr Rohini Rupan successfully performed its first lower caesarean section on December 18, 2023.

The collaborative effort of the surgical team, which also included an anaesthetic technician, scrub nurses, and recovery nurses, resulted in the safe delivery of a healthy baby girl weighing 3.2kg to Akita Mahaica.

Mahaica is currently on the path to a smooth recovery and expressed her gratitude for the outstanding care and treatment she received both pre- and post-surgery at Mahaicony Cottage Hospital.

This accomplishment not only stands as a medical triumph but also serves as a vivid representation of the Government of Guyana's steadfast dedi-

Akita Mahaica and her baby girl

cation to realising its visionary health goals in line with its commitment

to providing accessible and affordable healthcare services to every Guyanese

citizen.

Mahaicony Cottage Hospital's ability to perform this significantly lower caesarean section is indicative of the nation's collective pursuit of excellence in healthcare.

As the hospital gears up for additional surgeries shortly, it reinforced its enduring commitment to enhancing the well-being of the community and contributing to the realisation of Guyana's aspirations for world-class healthcare.

This successful lower caesarean section stands as a testament to the hospital's mission and represents a significant stride toward guaranteeing the health and well-being of the community it serves.

Heartfelt congratulations are being extended to the entire surgical team, hospital staff, and the Government for this remarkable achievement.

To say that Angelique Parisot-Potter’s revelations about the “Massey management training program” were “shocking” would be a gross understatement!! Now, this was no fly-by-night disgruntled employee getting in their licks for being overlooked!! Angeligue was not only a pedigreed French-Creole favoured by TT’s corporate elite, she was qualified enough to be Massy’s Exec VP for Business Integrity, and was the Group’s General Counsel!!

So, what exactly did Angelique say in the 13-page memo she read to the 100th AGM of the Caribbean powerhouse that shocked their sensibilities – and earned her a summary suspension and leave?? “In the midst of a foreign exchange crisis, Massy cannot be spending scarce resources on highly dubious activities…”

The “resources” meant paying US$500,000 to US$1 million ANNUALLY to a management motivation company in Fort Myers, Florida. And the “dubious activities” included “training executives to communicate with the dead, or healing with 'white light’!!

Now, your Eyewitness knows most service corporations have a dim view of customers; but surely, not seeing them as walking dead that gotta be communicated with!! What the heck kinda training was this?? The union representing most of Massy’s ordinary workers wanted to know why, “in this era of modern technology, Massy allegedly engaged in activities which delve into the dark world of occultism." The Board, however, was concerned that Angelique would make “public disclosures on a matter that is confidential to the company”!!

Well, Massy’s President and CEO didn’t see any problem with the training – even though he denied the communicating with the dead and healing with white light accusations. Said he, “We think a part of our secret at Massy is that we’re willing to do this kind of work as leaders. It’s the kind of work that we have done that allows us to have the results the company shows. That is because culture eats strategy for breakfast.”

Your Eyewitness has no problem in general with that assertion, but the question is, “Which culture??”

The CEO boasted about Massy’s business success, but shouldn’t we be concerned that such success might be due to practising NECROMANCY - communicating with the dead, especially in order to predict the future??

So, your Eyewitness decided to check out the training company - Delphi Sphere Consulting. Owners Paul and Indira Dyal-Dominguez claim to harness “Human Being Energies for Executives: “It’s about developing a dimension of you which we all have called the “intuitive you.” Reliably tapping into the “intuitive you” would add a new trusted tool in making business and personal decisions that have proven to be invaluable. We refer to this dimension of you as your “Self.”

So, was Indira just teaching Yoga to the Massy Execs on behalf of Paul?? Scary!! …business In this era, we’ve learnt that the energy business ain’t just about energy. It’s also about the effects of the production of that energy to run our brave new world for the last two centuries - by burning fossil fuels. We’ve learnt that while our standards of living have skyrocketed on the whole, fossil fuels have also produced carbon dioxide, that’s caused our planet to warm up so much that we’re in danger of making all life on earth extinct!!

But there are fossil fuels and there are fossil fuels. So, while heavy oils produce tons of carbon dioxide, natural gas produces much less. So, if you gotta burn fossil fuels - while we transition to renewable non-carbon dioxide forms, like solar and water energy - then it makes sense to burn natural gas, innit?? Well, it looks like we have the best of both worlds: along with our LIGHT oil, we have associated natural gas – which we wanna use to generate power at Wales.

So, shouldn’t the critics support the project?? …transportation Looking at the traffic - such as it is – your Eyewitness is wondering when we’ll have those flying cars they’ve been promising for decades. Surely, they’ll reduce the two hours it takes to move from Camp to Water St, no?!!

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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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MoH monitoring surge of JN.1 COVID variant globally

W Protecting Guyana

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e, Guyanese, must accept that the threat from Venezuela has merely been put on “pause”, and it will be reignited even if Maduro were to be replaced after next year’s election by frontrunner Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado, who said she prefers their Essequibo claim to be settled by the Ravi Dev ICJ. That Essequibo is part of their territory is enshrined in their Constitution, Articles 7 & 8, and until at a minimum that is removed, Venezuelan politicians will always exploit the issue as a low-hanging fruit to garner support.

One of the reasons Maduro was willing to raise the ante to the point of actually announcing that he was annexing Essequibo is not only his reading that the multilateral institutions, which are supposed to enforce international norms, are weak and preoccupied. Venezuela has, more pertinently, been contemptuous of our inability to dissuade them militarily even since we allowed them to annex Ankoko Island in 1966.

In light of this reality, we have suggested that a military base be established in Essequibo, and that US forces should have access to that base through a defence treaty between our countries.

We cannot shelter under the US wing only by bandwagoning; the US will pursue its interests, and those might not align precisely with ours at various times. We had suggested that the Essequibo forward base be manned by specialised troops, and today I would like to expand on this option.

Inter alia, we noticed that the administration has already engaged US General (rtd) Wesley Clark, who consults on security and energy issues, and we expect that a force to act as a deterrent to Venezuelan aggression is on the cards.

There are several types of competitive strategies available to small states facing coercion by their stronger neighbours: denial, cost imposition, attacking their strategy, and political system. We are already doing a good job of attacking Venezuela’s strategy of annexation in the ICJ, and the Americans are focusing on their political system. We can now pursue denial and cost imposition strategies.

As a small nation – even though we now have oil revenues buttressing our Consolidated Fund - we need to deploy our defence budget in a manner best suited to the theatre in which we could be engaged – and not only from Venezuela. Because of the overwhelming size of the Venezuelan land, air and sea forces, while we should maintain our present conventional forces, enlarging them to counter Venezuela is not a viable option. We will have to think outside the box to cause them to think twice before attacking us. In a phrase, we will have to rethink doctrine and force structure. We should formulate a strategy of denial and cost imposition with the limited aim of changing Venezuela’s decisionmaking calculus, and thus their strategic behaviour. Our Essequibo terrain favours this denial strategy, since, unlike Venezuela, our goal is not to occupy their territory.

We wish to point out that in several theatres across the world, from the Middle East to Afghanistan, we have examples of irregular forces that have performed credibly against much larger conventional forces with superior weaponry. I am suggesting that we augment our present conventional forces with one that is specifically selected, organized, educated, trained, equipped, and supported for “irregular” operations such as against Venezuela in our jungle terrain.

Closer to home, we have the irregular FARC forces in the Venezuela-Colombia border bruising the conventional Venezuelan forces and holding them off.

Such a professional irregular defence force should be comprised of as many small units as we can muster and support without the traditional hierarchal structure of conventional militaries. As such, they should be able to conduct independent and also coordinated operations with other units. Each unit should have individuals trained in specific fields, like cyber, intelligence, communication, demolition etc.

With Venezuela buttressing their traditional military equipment such as tanks, artillery pieces, armoured vehicles and fighter jets from Russia, our Irregular Force should be equipped with hardware – especially drones - and in the cyber domain, that enables them to neutralize Venezuela’s conventional weapons systems and even make them completely irrelevant in our Essequibo jungles. These forces should employ swarms of unmanned and remote-controlled platforms, and stockpile and pre-position thousands of shoulder-launched antitank and antiaircraft missiles.

Since we will be creating these forces in peacetime to dissuade Venezuela from launching an attack on our territory, we have the advantage of using our intelligence on Venezuelan forces to equip and deploy them most effectively.

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

ith spikes of COVID-19 currently being experienced by many countries around the world, some of which are linked to Guyana via travelling routes, local authorities have intensified their surveillance for the disease and its variants.

This includes new variants such as JN.1, which is surging in several countries such as the United States of America.

"For several countries of interest to Guyana, because of frequent travelling between our country and these countries, such as the USA, we note increasing trends of COVID-19 infections.

In these countries, the rising incidence of COVID-19 has been mainly accounted for by a new Omicron COVID-19 variant," said Dr Leslie Ramsammy, advisor to the Ministry of Health.

"The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently named the strain, JN.1, a variant of concern – meaning that the global body is monitoring the variant closely," the health advisor explained.

The WHO warns that the fast-spreading variant could lead to an uptick in cases during winter months as people spend more time indoors at family and group gatherings.

This fear of the WHO appears to be real as the cases have been mounting in countries such as the USA, correlating with the winter season. Based on stud-

Advisor to the Ministry of Health, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

ies done so far, JN.1 appears to have a high transmissible rate.

The good news is that symptoms appear less severe than other variants.

"This might be a reflection of vaccines providing protection," Dr Ramsammy opined.

Typically, illness starts with a sore throat, followed by congestion and a dry cough. People may also experience other symptoms such as a runny nose, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, fever, diarrhoea and an altered sense of smell.

However, Dr Ramsammy posited that "probably what is more important than the symptoms is who has it..."

"A patient who is older than 65 or is immunocompromised and persons who have not been recently vaccinated against COVID-19 may experience more serious symptoms like difficulty breathing."

In this regard, he shared that "my advice and the MoH’s advice is that people should be extra vigilant this holiday season to avoid a new spike of cases in Guyana.”

For several months now, Guyana has seen a very low incidence rate of COVID-19.

Nevertheless, Dr Ramsammy explained that health authorities are still on the lookout for cases of the novel coronavirus, and testing and vaccination services remain available.

"We advise citizens that the low incidence rate in Guyana at this time should not be an excuse to let our guards down. COVID-19 is still circulating in our country, as it is in every country in the world. In particular, given increased socialisation with family and community events during this festive season, our advice is that people should take precautions and follow all the anti-COVID-19 drills that the MoH has been recommending since 2020," Dr Ramsammy has outlined.

"Frequent hand saniti-

sation and protection with masks for people who might have coughs and fevers etc, are still recommended," he added.

From October 30 to November 5, the JN.1 subvariant was estimated to make up 3.3 per cent of global COVID-19 cases.

Now, the WHO estimates it makes up 27.1 per cent of all COVID-19 cases worldwide as of December 19.

With JN.1’s sudden spike and its new designation as a “variant of interest” by the WHO, it may be hard not to feel worried about this recent variant.

But Amesh Adalja, senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, has explained that this variant is just one of many that will continue to evolve from the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

“I think many people have this assumption that one day, it will just stop mutating, but life never stops mutating, that’s how evolution works,” Adalja is quoted as saying in international reports. (Devina Samaroo)

Brutal attack leaves excavator operator hospitalised

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wenty-six-year-old Keon Liverpool, an excavator operator, was on Monday evening last attacked and brutally stabbed at Ituni, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The incident occurred as Liverpool was parking his excavator after a day's work. Based on the information received, Liverpool was conversing with an elderly woman when he was allegedly attacked from behind and brutally stabbed multiple times. He reportedly sustained injuries to his chest area, arms and other parts of the body.

The suspect, known to Liverpool, is said to have an existing feud with the victim. Liverpool had informed his family about the old grievance and alleged threats made by the suspect to kill him on multiple occasions. However, he never disclosed the details of the dispute.

Liverpool is currently in critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital, where doctors have indicated that he will need to remain hospitalised for another month. Due to the severity of his injuries, he will be unable to eat sol-

Injured: Keon Liverpool

id food for six months, relying on liquids for sustenance.

A relative shared that doctors expressed surprise at Liverpool's survival, considering the extent of his injuries and severe bleeding.

The family is seeking justice for the incapacitated father of five, asserting that the suspect's actions have left Liverpool unable to work for the rest of his life.

The matter has been reported to the Police, and an investigation is underway. However, the suspect, known as “Marky”, is yet to be apprehended. The Liverpool family awaits justice for the life-altering assault on their loved one.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mechanisation of GuySuCo forging ahead – Min Mustapha – to address labour shortages, increase efficiency

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he Government has assured that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is moving into a different phase, where there will be an increased emphasis on mechanisation and the entity will return to profitability.

The pace at which Guyana’s economy has grown has seen some in various sectors complain about labour shortages. GuySuCo is also not immune to this phenomenon, but according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, mechanisation is one way this is being confronted.

During a recent sitting of the National Assembly, Mustapha revealed that the Government is investing in mechanised harvesting and other initiatives aimed at making the company more efficient.

“We will continue to set targets. For example, we said we wanted to start the mechanisation process. We have started it. We are now advancing in that stage.

Because we know for a fact that harvesters, and cane cutters, we are not finding so many cane cutters now. That is why we want to mechanise. GuySuCo is moving into a different

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

phase… we want to keep GuySuCo alive because GuySuCo is the single largest employer in the country.”

“We are trying now to do mechanisation in GuySuCo. We know for a fact that some people don’t want to go back to cutting cane. As such, we are mechanising.

That is why we have studied and we have started the mechanisation at GuySuCo. We are now bringing in machines that will cut the canes. That will load the canes. And we are looking now to make GuySuCo more modernised and mechanised.”

It was explained by Mustapha that there are currently 4 mechanised harvesters and several loaders. A sum of $643 million in supplementary funding was recently granted to the Ministry of Agriculture, for wages and salaries. He went on to speak of the Government’s employment of 543 sugar workers at the Rose Hall Estate, as part of the mechanisation programme.

“This came about because of our programme.

We reopened Rose Hall Estate. Rose Hall estate now is producing sugar. We have employed a total of 543 new employees. And we employed these people because of the mechanisation programme we have started. And we must also say those persons are from the area of Rose Hall, who were severed when the factory was closed,” Mustapha said.

The Government’s efforts to reopen the Rose Hall Estate saw a whopping $1.1 billion being expended this year to have the facility up and running. A summary of the major works included both civil and structural interventions – including rehabilitation of the cane gantry, pre-milling, milling, boiler and process house

The Rose Hall Estate

roofing. There was also the replacement of a vacuum pan, condenser structures, a chimney, and servicing of all equipment.

The Rose Hall facility is one of four estates that was closed by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition after it took office. Back in 2016, the former Government closed the Wales Estate, and the following year, shut down the Enmore, Rose Hall, and Skeldon Estates, putting over 7000 sugar workers on the breadline. The downsizing of the sugar industry resulted in only the Uitvlugt,

Blairmont, and Albion Estates in operation.

After taking office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government had announced in the Emergency Budget presented in September 2020, that some $5 billion would be injected into the sugar industry for the phased reopening of the closed estates.

Since then, sizeable allocations have been made to return the sector to its former glory.

GuySuCo was allocated a further $2 billion in Budget 2021 by the PPP/C Government for capital

works to be undertaken at the various estates to help in the turnaround of the sugar industry. Then last year, GuySuCo received $1 billion in supplementary funds from the Government.

There is currently a five-year strategic plan at GuySuCo that aims to improve the mechanising of all the estates such as the refurbishing of generators across the industry, the building of 250 new punts, the creation of a new packaging plant at Albion, and the expansion of the packaging plant at Blairmont, among other initiatives. (G-3)

FEATURE

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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usician e x traordinaire S h a n n o n Anthony Roach, known by his stage name “So Hype”, is raising the festive spirit with his new single, dubbed ‘ G u y a n e s e Christmas’.

Released about two weeks ago, the song unveils a mesmerizing tale that transcends mere musical notes. The genesis of this enchanting track lies in Shannon’s profound admiration of the myriad of Guyanese artistes who have crafted their own unique Christmas renditions.

Seeking to put his own distinctive spin on this cherished tradition, Shannon has embarked on a personal voyage down memory lane, reminiscing about the joyous Christmases of his past.

This is a great honour for me to get the opportunity to do this interview with you guys,” So Hype has shared. “I just recent-

Shannon with his Dad Philbert Roach and siblings

ly released my first-ever Christmas song, and I hope it has the true essence to become a Christmas classic. I am thrilled to have my work featured in such a prestigious publication, alongside other talented artistes that I would see in these newspapers from time to time.”

Shannon Anthony Roach is a name that promises greatness. Born on May 17, 2006, he has embarked on an artistic voyage that knows no bounds. As he gracefully navigates the vicissitudes of life, Shannon proudly carries the torch of his parents, Amanda Pollard

and Philbert Roach, while igniting his passion for music and performance.

Amidst the symphony of family ties, Shannon harmonizes beautifully with his five remarkable siblings, collectively nurturing a sense of unity that resonates deeply within him. Currently attending

Richard Ishmael S e c o n d a r y School, Shannon delights in exploring the fascinating world of digital art, effortlessly blending his Shannon Anthony Roach, known talents with by his stage name “So Hype” his enchanting musical sic out of my studio.” prowess.

So Hype has been “Growing up with my mother and father, known, from an early age, we had a little shop/bar for his boldness and talat our house, and every ented mixed style, and his day they would play all family would encourage genres of music, wheth- him to sing for them every er it’s raging Dancehall, Christmas.

“Even at my high smooth Reggae, Hip-Hop or Rhythm and Blues school, Richard Ishmael (R&B) music…and some- Secondary, during the times I’d get my way with Christmas holidays, my playing the music, and I friends or teacher would would mostly play those ask me to be a part of the Chris Brown and Michael concerts, and of course I Jackson tracks,” So Hype would happily do it,” So Hype shared. has shared.

However, while he That’s where his love for music and dancing has a love for music and emerged. As So Hype grew dance, he also shares a older, and with the music distinct love for Digital always there with him, art, in which he engages that’s how he found the as a part-time hobby when he’s not fully involved love for it all.

He added with excite- with his music. ment, “I know one day I TURN TO PAGE 15 will be doing my own mu-

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Latoya Pereira

Chandrapaul Hemraj

“I wish that this season be filled with peace, goodwill and happiness for you and your family... Let’s not forget to spread Christmas cheer among brothers and sisters as we celebrate the festivities. Happy, Happy Holidays!!!”

Miracle Grahame-Peters

“I wish that this Christmas is my son's most memorable yet that I'm able to get him everything his little hearts desires including a trampoline, tablet and bicycle. Why? As long as he's happy on Christmas morning I'm happy. I believe it's my responsibility as a parent to ensure that my child is safe, loved and well provided for.

My second wish is a bit more farfetched, it's that every family in every home can afford a memorable meal on Christmas Day.”

Ajay Jhaman

“Christmas is a time of sharing and giving and I hope that we all think about the less fortunate around this time.

More importantly, I wish for God’s continued blessings with good health, strength and prosperity. Happy Holidays!!!”

“My ideal Christmas envisions a radiant tapestry where family, love, and festive traditions converge. I dream of the joyous reunion of my cherished Queen mother, daughter, brother, and the radiant presence of my stepdad, who resides across the seas in the US. Though miles apart, the spirit of togetherness echoes through the laughter and warmth we share, creating a mosaic of love that transcends borders.”

Matthew Vieira

“My Christmas wish is for everyone to find happiness; when everyone is happy around me, that’s the best feeling, especially to see them laugh and smile heartily without anything to worry about. Season’s Greetings to all!!!”

Ravi Latchman “I just want everyone to live in peace, love & harmony. I also wish that Guyanese especially at this time of the year, spread Christmas cheers to the less fortunate... We all have a responsibility to ensure no child is left hungry!!! Best Wishes for the holiday!!!”

Ulex Smith-Neils

“My wish for 2024 is for everyone's happiness and health. Also, I hope my loved ones have a fantastic Christmas with their family and friends.”

Sealon Sue

“My wish for this Christmas is to have football shoes, a new ball, cones and training equipment.”

Clarissa Singh

What do I want for Christmas? The things that money can’t buy such as family, laughter and love. And if I could win the lotto that would be great as well!!! Happy Holidays!!!

Luis Antonia Kumar

“May this Christmas bring not only joy and festivities but also the gift of law and order on our roadways and a sense of peace and progress throughout our country. In a world where life is too short for strife, let's spend it wisely with family and friends, making the most of every positive moment. Merry Christmas!”

Nelly London Dwight Rose

“Above all, what I truly wish this Christmas brings quality time with my loved ones. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to overlook the importance of spending uninterrupted moments together. The gift of time spent together is priceless and creates lasting memories.”

“My Christmas wish is to be happy throughout the remainder of the year including next year and also keep all of my friends that I made. The reason why is because this year was hard for me and it wasn’t an easy year so I would love to at least be happy and also to keep all my friends They make me happy and they make me have something to look forward to each day.”

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FROM PAGE 13

So Hype performing at a recent Christmas event Taking us through his personal musical style, So Hype revealed, “It is always surreal, and I put my all into each moment. You can’t disturb me in that moment; that’s the only time I get to truly look into myself and write my reality”.

He added, “Blending Hip-Hop, R&B or Dancehall is focusing not only on lyrics,

more music, covering all genres, to allow him to fully showcase his potential and the different side of his artistry. It is what So Hype loves doing, and he intends to live off of his music. “I’m not just doing this for me, but I also want to see my family and kids eat from this,” he expressed.

While he feverishly works to better his talents and musical style, he noted that he wants to encourage those he works with to be patient and remember patience is key.

Everything takes time, and perseverance leads to mastery, he has said. He emphasized that music is his voice; it helps him to freely express what he wouldn’t say out loud otherwise.

As we eagerly anticipate Shannon’s upcoming musical endeavours, we are reminded of the power of art and expression i n capturing the spirit of the holidays. Through his music, Shannon aims to share the vibrant culture of Guyana, and the Shannon with his Mom, joy of a Guyanese Christmas with the Amanda Pollard world.

“Christmas with but also on vocals and beat rhythm.” Learning these my family is always a comtechniques came from focusing on his idols: Chris edy show. It’s a joyous and humorous Brown, Bob Marley, and Vybz Kartel; they have occasion, and I want to share it more shaped and built his passion for the art, and he noted often, not just with Christmas that one needs good singing and lyrical control when music, but with all the music doing this.

I do,” So Hype has disSo Hype is keen and focused on going forward in closed.

2024. He revealed that he would be releasing a lot

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FEATURE

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Salvation Army continues to spread Christmas cheer among children & adults

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o ensure children and families across the country have a Merry Christmas, the Salvation Army has utilised the funds accumulated from its Kettle donation campaign and other donations made to that organisation to put smiles on the faces of over 2000 families.

Through this initiative, a total of 1,500 hampers have been donated to families in Georgetown, Bartica, Vergenoegen, Linden, Mahaicony, and New Amsterdam; and close to 500 children have been presented with toys ranging from bicycles to electronic tablets to plush animals,

plained that funds remaining will go towards the organization’s drug rehab programme, elderly women’s home, and feeding programme. These programmes run all year long, cater to approximately 100 individuals, and their provisions range from providing daily hot meals to clothes to hygiene products and to school supplies, among others.

“We will continue with whatever we have left in our account for the rehab programme. We have our elderly women’s home and we have the feeding programme, of course, where we cook for school children

while others have participated in parties.

Further, 500 care packages have been provided to institutions catering to elderly persons, women, and the less fortunate.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Divisional Commander Major Matignol Saint-Lot disclosed that the organization is grateful for the support provided through other avenues.

“Not only we are preaching the word to help them invite Jesus Christ in their life, but we are also concerned about their physical and mental health… so we will preach the gospel and help the less fortunate without discrimination, judgement and pride,” he stated.

Major Saint-Lot ex-

and female citizens. The money will be used for all of these programmes,” SaintLot explained.

The kettles were placed at various locations on October 27: Muneshwer’s Limited, National Hardware on Water Street, and Massy Supermarket at Providence, and will be retrieved on December 31.

The Christmas Kettle initiative was first spearheaded in San Francisco, USA by Captain Joseph McFee, to feed 1000 people at Christmas during the year 1891. However, the money was solicited because McFee could not meet his target; but support was provided by religious institutions, and as a result, the activity became global in the Salvation Army thereafter.

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A traditional Christmas experience

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arked by a unique blend of cultural influences and a Caribbean flare, Christmas in Guyana is one of those unrivalled experiences that are laden with fond memories.

The holy season of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ has evolved to an awakening of a sense of togetherness, gratitude, and charity. And most of all, it is one of the busiest times of the year in Guyana - ample testimonial to the saying that “there is no Christmas like a Guyanese Christmas”.

Christmas in Guyana begins when the calendar is turned to December; and plans are immediately put in motion to ensure all the quintessential elements are in place for that grand time. For many, the first line of action is to figuratively turn the house upside down, scrubbing away even the tiniest speck of dust.

In a signature ‘deck the halls’ mode, new carpets replace old ones, garlands and Christmas trees are brought out for their annual appearance, and lights are strung across houses. On the popular Regent Street and in key hubs in Georgetown, persons track the new arrivals as their window-shopping

Vendors on Regent Street have put out their displays of toys

skills are honed to a work of art.

Against the backdrop of carts blaring popular Christmas music, Guyana Times ventured out to scope the shopping extravaganza, and the first thing noticeable were the long queues at stores as persons tried to secure toys for the children, besides festive décor and household items.

Faye Ann, clutching two bags of curtains as she made her way out of a store, has said the holiday season means everything ‘new and

bright’.

“Well, I’m a little last minute, because I wasn’t finding the blinds I wanted. But it was a rush today.

Everybody is just busy and crowded…This is something I do every year. Always have to buy new blinds and mats, and make the house look new and bright,” she said as she spoke to us.

Asked whether she got her children’s gifts already, the mother of three disclosed, “Of course! That’s one (chore) I think I did early, since November. I

Masqueraders working the streets of Georgetown in their colourful costumes

went out early and wrapped them.”

At both Stabroek and Bourda Markets, walnuts and grapes are stacked high as vendors coax passers-by to purchase. And by Christmas Eve, you can

Throughout this ordeal, you’re sure to see masqueraders resurrecting their ageold tradition to sweep the streets with dances and colourful costumes. Whether on stilts or flat-footed, whether at traffic lights or

Popular must-haves adorning well-stocked shelves at the Stabroek Market

count on slashed prices as vociferous vendors work hard to sell off their seasonal products. As they stand in front of their laden carts and stalls, bellowing bargains in efforts to outdo their competition, purchasers find it hard to traverse the area without getting distracted or succumbing to the irresistible bargains.

After all the hubbub in ensuring everything is in place, Christmas morning is met with calmness. The distinct aroma of pepperpot simmering on the stovetop wafts tantalizingly around homes, and voracious appe-

Pepperpot and bread is a Christmas staple

on street corners, these masqueraders and their skillful drummers are sure to make their presence known.

With the passage of time, the prevalence of masqueraders has dwindled, but in times when the art form has been taken up by few youths, the older, seasoned folks typically show up to preserve this rich tradition.

tites are aroused. Pepperpot accompanied by fresh bread is a quintessential breakfast choice for many.

A few days before December 25, most households get a head-start on this specialty, since it requires cooking meats in luscious cassareep, peppers, spices and herbs for several hours, until it is darkened and flavourful.

Aside from attending church, spending time with families, and opening presents, you can look forward to the spread of Christmas delectables laid out from hours of labour in the kitchen.

By then the fruitcake or rum-soaked black cake would have had its chance to add to the aromas emanating from the kitchen.

Typically served with the staple ginger beer or fruity sorrel drink, these flavours meld together to create that unforgettable Christmas experience. (Rupa Seenaraine)

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A home for the holidays: 5 families receive core homes

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One of the spanking new core homes

ust in time for Christmas day, five families will have a place to call home, after the Housing Ministry performed a miracle of gifting them keys to their new core homes.

For new homeowners: Tandasey O’Neil, Candase Wrights, Burton Kelly, Antonio Alexis and Hilbert Pilgrim, it is a new lease of life to finally have a house of their own.

One of the beneficiaries, Burton Kelly, expressed his gratitude, stating that the new home is a significant upgrade from the small wooden makeshift dwelling he once occupied.

“Today is a new phase in my life. I am so thankful,” Kelly said as he expressed his appreciation to the Government and IDB. Meanwhile, Candase Wrights, a mother of five, shared her joy at being able to provide a better home for

her family. Coming from humble beginnings, she spoke of the relief from the financial burden of rent. She described this initiative as “a change to someone’s life”.

“This is a bittersweet moment because you know the struggle when you have rent and bills to pay and then to know how to manage finances. This would be a big step that you don’t have to worry about this part anymore, about rent paying and you will have current so that the children could study more effectively at night,” she said.

Another beneficiary, Tandasey O’Neil, described the home as a true Christmas miracle. She shared her difficulties in renting a home previously, which forced her to reside with a relative. Now with this ‘Christmas present’, the mother of three shared that she can focus on her children.

“It’s a Christmas pres-

ent, it came just in time for Christmas and it’s a blessing…I have three biological children and it will be very nice for us to have our own home. One of the best things about it is that it’s debt-free so I wouldn’t have to worry about paying a mortgage and I can focus on investing in [my children] a little more,” said O’Neil.

The Electrical Certificate and Completion Certificate were handed over by the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, alongside Deputy Director of Community Development, Donell Bess-Bascom and staff on Friday.

The homes, constructed under the Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP), are funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) and executed through the Housing Ministry’s Central Housing

Minister Croal and staffers of the Ministry with one of the beneficiaries

and Planning Authority.

Priced at nearly $5 million each, these homes offer two bedrooms, a kitchen, and bathroom facilities.

Minister Croal emphasised that this initiative is part of the Ministry’s broader programme to assist vulnerable households. For him, it is a testimony of the steadfast efforts of ensuring Guyanese are afforded the opportunity of homeownership.

The Minister expressed, “This is another testimony of what we’ve been doing at the Ministry of Housing and Water, as part of our programme. It’s not just about the allocating of lots but also to encourage homeownership and also address a niche, in terms of society and those in different categories.”

The AHUAP bound-

ary encompasses, the La Parfaite Harmonie Housing Development in Region Three; Georgetown to Grove on the East Bank of Demerara, Region Four; from Georgetown to La Bonne Intention and nineteen other select communities up to Victoria on the East Coast of Demerara, Region Four.

Within the AHUAP framework, Minister Croal highlighted that more than 75 homes have already been handed over.

“A lot of investments have been made under this programme. For example, within this cluster, we have spent about $1.2 billion on the construction of core houses. In addition to that, this programme also sees the subsidies, so the beneficiaries had to contribute $100,000 and

earn an emolument below a certain bracket.”

Under the programme, some $800 million has also been expended toward essential infrastructure such as roads, drainage networks, and street lights, and the disbursement of Home Improvement Subsidies.

“Now that the year is coming to an end, certainly it has been a lot of work and we’re here to do work and deliver on a mandate,” Croal voiced.

Plans were unveiled for rehabilitating a community ground and constructing a multipurpose facility in the region. Simultaneously, over $60 million has been utilised so far on the East Bank of Demerara for core home construction and the distribution of Home Improvement Subsidies.

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First Lady brings Christmas cheer to more than 1000 children at Kingston Seawall

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First Lady Arya Ali addressing the gathering

ore than one thousand children from orphanages and villages across Guyana were treated on Friday evening by First Lady Arya Ali during a Christmas tree light-up and toy distribution exercise at the Kingston Seawall Bandstand.

The light-up of the Christmas tree was followed by the distribution of toys and goodie bags to the more than 1000 children who had the opportunity

to take photographs with Santa Claus.

Mrs Ali said that although the country has been in mourning following the death of five soldiers earlier this month, it was important for the children to find hope and happiness during the Christmas season.

“But ultimately, we decided that regardless of what difficulties we may be facing, hope and happiness must never be stripped from our children. And so, we decided that we would go ahead with this event.”

She added that she hoped that the mild cele-

Mrs Ali handing over a gift to one of the children

bration would remind the Guyanese of the hope that Baby Jesus brought to the world when he was born and that it continues to inspire us to make this world a better place.

Speaking to the adults present, the First Lady related that this year has been a challenging one for

“This year has been an incredibly challenging one for our country and our people. This month in particular, has been one in which we have found very little reasons to celebrate, having lost several of our military servicemen and having the sovereignty of our country threatened.

shown enormous courage, character, resilience, and resolve. You have shown that there is much to gain in appreciation and gratitude for the gift of time and goodwill we share as we look out for one another. I am inspired by you all,” the First Lady said.

The event was support-

A group performing a dance routine at the event

The esplanade was well-decorated on Friday evening

Guyanese, but they have shown courage.

“But even during these difficult times, you have

ed by Digicel and Ansa McAL.

Over 1600 persons trained in ICT in 2023

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ver 1600 persons have been instructed in various facets of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) this year through the Office of the Prime Minister’s Industry and Innovations Unit.

This includes basic community-level ICT training, which has been conducted in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, and 10, the Hinterland Train the Trainers initiative, ICT innovation Camps, Guyanese Girls Code and Computer Literacy Skills Training for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Recognising that ICT forms an integral part of everyday life on a global scale, the Unit consistently innovates platforms and programmes meant to strengthen its usage to contribute to Guyana’s socioeconomic development.

In the first half of the year, the Government invested a total of $1.6 billion

The Centre for Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT) was recently opened at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus

in the advancement of the ICT sector.

This amount encompassed several other flagship initiatives, such as the implementation of the national electronic identification system, and the Guyana Coders Initiative, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates.

Additionally, with the necessary training, the Government has also prioritised the building of resilient infrastructure to support the expansion of internet access.

The ICT Access and e-

Services for Hinterland, Poor & Remote Communities Project continues to live up to its mandate of providing ICT access and electronic services to these communities, throughout the country.

ICT hubs are being erected in every region, complete with photovoltaic equipment.

Additionally, the project sees the training of residents, to manage these hubs.

The project has this year completed 110 ICT hubs in the ten administrative regions. Of the 110, 98 hubs have been operationalised.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

House lot awardees to gain access to lands in January – Min Croal T he Housing Ministry is well on its way to achieving the 50,000 house lot target set by the Government for its first term in office, and greater efforts will be taken by the new year to ensure that persons gain access to their lands.

This is according to Housing Minister Collin Croal, who outlined on Friday that citizens can expect greater benefits in 2024.

As 2023 winds down, he shared, “We can look forward to a lot of benefits for

our citizens in the new year.

Our programme continues.

We have a target of 50,000 by 2025 and we’re well on our way to that. We’re also addressing so that persons can access their own land and that means infrastructure work.”

According to Croal, many persons will be able to access their lands between this coming week and the month of January. The Minister said Budget 2024 will also lay the foundation for what is achievable in their work programme.

“That’s is as a result of

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal

infrastructural work completed for 2023…Allocations

have been done. The infrastructural work will be part of next year’s programme.

We look forward to the National Budget because that informs us and the nation how much we can do and how much more we can’t do,” the Minister detailed.

Statistics as of September shows that over three years, a total of 25,996 house lots were allocated, with a significant portion – 14,054 – being granted to young individuals between the ages of 21 and 35.

The distribution of thousands of house lots annu-

ally is done through the Government’s signature “Dream Realised” house lot allocation exercise; by the allocation of housing units to low-, moderate- and middle-income earners; and by allocations to young professionals.

Billions of dollars are also being invested to carry out infrastructural work in both new and existing housing schemes to ensure that all necessary amenities are in place for the allottees.

President Dr Irfaan Ali revealed that there are approximately 57,000 pend-

ing house-lot applications.

However, to address this and provide lots and housing units to thousands of people, a substantial $170 billion is required.

Another $400 billion would be needed to develop about 200 kilometres of roadways needed for access to the new housing areas being developed in the immediate to medium terms. In keeping with its manifesto, the PPP/C Government is committed to delivering 50,000 house lots to Guyanese within its first term in office.

41 cadet officers undergo training in SOC 56

The cadet officers under training

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hief-of-Staff Brigadier Omar Khan officially declared open Standard Officer Course Number 56 on December 21, 2023, setting the tone for a transformative journey for 41 aspiring officers.

Addressing the officer cadets, he emphasized the need for unwavering commitment to the transformation process as they embark on their dreams of serving their country.

Brigadier Khan told the officer cadets that their resilience would be tested

throughout the training.

"Your mind and body will be pushed beyond anything you thought possible, and they will be strengthened. The greatest military leaders started their journeys into a life of service exactly where you are today."

The Chief of Staff underscored the importance of attitude, commitment, and dedication in shaping the cadets’ future and, in this vein, urged them to view failures as learning experiences and to adopt a persistent attitude. “Treat every failure

as a learning experience.

Learn how to strengthen your weak areas and adopt a never-quit attitude. These friendships forged will last a lifetime, and this training will prepare you not just for a life of service but also for success in life after you leave your respective organisations."

Brigadier Khan also outlined the three pillars guiding the sustained development of the Force: Adaptability, Awareness, and Agility. He said these principles will be ingrained

in the potential officers during their two years of training and will not only prepare them for the challenges ahead but also be-

Chief of Staff Brigadier Omar Khan taking the salute during the opening ceremony

come an indelible part of their lifelong journey.

The Standard Officer Course 56 commenced with

56 officer cadets, and so far, 41 of them have endured the rigours of the training.

(GDF)

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 15,000 persons employed through part-time jobs initiative – Jagdeo benefiting from a range of tax incentives. Among these incentives in 2022 were the removal of VAT on electricity, water and data; reduction of the excise tax on fuel to zero; in addition to many non-tax measures, such as the one-off $25,000 relief grant; reintroduction and increase of the schoolchildren cash grant, as well as its extension to private school stu-

dents; and a one-off $28,000 cash grant for pensioners and cash grants to support small businesses.

The job opportunities allow for the employees to work for 10 days and earn up to $40,000 every month.

The jobs are being offered in specific areas within Government Ministries and agencies, and cater to one person per household. So

far, some 11,000 Guyanese are currently benefiting from the programme countrywide, and this would cost the Government some $10 billion annually.

The Government has been on an aggressive drive to achieve its objective of 50,000 new jobs for Guyanese, and this initiative has been part and parcel of the aim.

Ministry of Labour investigating fatal accident at Montrose

T Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo addressing the gathering during the rollout of the part-time jobs initiative in January

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ore than 15,000 persons have been gainfully employed through the Government’s part-time jobs initiative to date.

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo gave the update during his weekly press conference at Freedom House, on Thursday.

The initiative has proven to be a viable platform, paving the way for persons to sustain themselves as they seek out more permanent employment.

Jagdeo said many persons employed through the programme were able to obtain degrees through the

Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), and have been able to gain more permanent employment as a result.

“A lot of people left and a few were re-hired. A lot of people found permanent jobs and moved off. We have had some people leaving, and a few others that came on. So, that’s the purpose of it, to give people a stepping stone to a more permanent type of job,” he said.

The initiative has allowed for one person per household to work in public offices near their homes for 10 days per month and earn $40,000.

Over 11,000 persons were employed through the

programme in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), injecting $2.3 billion into these households since the programme started in the second half of 2022.

The part-time jobs initiative is one of a menu of measures implemented by the Government to cushion the effects of the cost of living.

Along with supporting farmers and cushioning the net effects of the increased cost of freight and the RussiaUkraine war, Guyanese are

he Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department of the Ministry of Labour has initiated an investigation into the fatal accident at Montrose Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD), which claimed the life of 29-year-old Daniel McCalmon.

McCalmon, a construction worker of La Penitence, Georgetown, was struck down at about 21:05h on Monday last. At the time of the accident, he was part of a team rehabilitating the ECD roadway.

The accident involved two pick-ups – one registered to the National Insurance Scheme bearing plates, PAD 1720 and another, GMM 8060.

At the time of the accident, the NIS vehicle was being driven by a 44-yearold resident of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, while an 80-yearold man of Dasrath Street, Triumph Village, ECD, was the driver of the other.

Police stated that the NIS vehicle was proceed-

Dead: Daniel McCalmon

ing along the Montrose Public Road at a fast rate and whilst in the process of negotiating a left turn, the driver lost control and collided with the centre median of the roadway.

As a result, the vehicle ended up in the other lane, thus colliding with McCalmon, who was at the time doing roadworks.

As a result of the collision, McCalmon was dragged by the NIS vehicle, which subsequently collided with GMM 8060, which was proceeding in the opposite direction.

Both vehicles came to a halt, with McCalmon pinned

under the NIS pick-up. The injured man was picked up in an unconscious state, placed into a vehicle and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

However, the Ministry stated that the Occupational Safety and Health Officer overseeing East Coast Demerara, Johana Vaughn, has been assigned to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

Her goal is to provide Sain Construction with recommendations to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

In this light, the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, has expressed deep concern about workplace fatalities.

He emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between workers and employers to ensure a safe and healthy working environment. Minister Hamilton encouraged a united commitment to promoting and maintaining workplace safety across all sectors.

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HEALTH TIPS

2 HEALTHY DAYS OF CHRISTMAS around every year for the rest of your life – get a jump on it and learn to manage it!

Here are 12 simple tips to maximize health and enjoyment during the festivities.

One is for:

Dr Tariq Jagnarine

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hristmas is just one day, right? One day of eating all the delicious foods, even overeating them, is not going to harm the heart.

However, most of us have spent the whole year overeating. And Christmas isn’t just one day - think about the three to four weeks of Christmas parties, social gatherings, and excess food that happens at this time of the year.

Research shows that the average person puts on about 2kg over this time, and never loses it. Rather than putting off healthy eating changes as next year’s problem, start making easy changes now. Christmas is g o ing to come

One standard alcoholic drink, and what that means. Any more than four standard drinks in one sitting is classified as a binge.

This may not feel like a binge to many, but it sure does for the liver.

Alternate one standard drink with one glass of water, and you’ll not only help your liver (and your heart), but you’ll feel much better the next day as well!

As a rough guide, one standard drink = 1 shot of a spirit = 1 standard glass of wine = 285ml glass of beer.

Two is for:

The number of servings of fresh fruit to include in our diet each day.

Antioxidants, fiber, and carbohydrates are all great reasons to eat fruit. For snacks, salads, and desserts, fresh is always best!

Three is for:

The serving of protein-rich foods to be included in our diet each day.

That’s one serving for each of the main meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Protein helps persons to feel fuller for longer, helps maintain muscle mass, and can increase metabolism. * Choose whole foods whenever possible. * Swap out ham and bacon for whole pork or turkey. * Swap out sausages for steak or mince.

Four is for:

The number of days you can safely keep pre-cooked or pre-prepared food in a fridge. Prepping food in advance is a great way to stay organized, especially when busy. Boil and peel eggs, poach chicken breast, precook brown rice or whole meal pasta, make up mixed garden salads, or make pudding for breakfast or fruit.

Five is for:

The number of grams of fiber (or more) that persons should aim to get in their bread of choice. Five grams or more of fiber per two slices of bread is a great benchmark and a key to helping people choose a healthier bread option. Fiber is vital for a healthy gut and a healthy heart.

Six is for:

It takes 60 minutes or less to write up a weekly meal plan to help stay organized and prepared for a busy week ahead.

Writing a meal

plan is about setting ourselves up for success.

Having healthy meals and snacks planned and ready to suit one's day-to-day lifestyle will mean no matter what the week throws at you, your food will still be on track.

Seven is for:

The number of days in the week to prioritize healthy behaviours.

Whether it’s a daily walk, vegetables at dinner, wholefood snacks, or early nights, aim to make a healthy living. When it’s a normal part of our life, it's less likely to fall off the wagon, and more likely to be done long-term.

To make this possible, these healthy behaviours need to be realistic and suit your lifestyle.

Eight is for:

The number of glasses of water to aim for during the day. On hot days, or when exercising for over an hour, more is needed.

Nine is for:

The number of times to try a new food or a new habit without giving up.

You shouldn’t give up at all!

Taking action, getting out of our comfort zone, and doing something different are the keys to creating new and lasting behaviours.

Ten is for:

Setting a goal to hit 10,000 steps per day. Keep moving over the festive season in order to help burn energy and keep many body systems, especially our

heart, in tip-top condition.

Eleven is for:

The number of kind, uplifting and encouraging things you need to tell yourself in one day! Looking after our health starts with a positive mindset and kind self-talk.

Twelve is for:

Here are 12 vegetables we should aim to include regularly in our diet. The research on the health benefits of vegetables, especially for the heart, is clear. It is recommended that we have five cups of vegetables per day – get them in via

salads, stir-fries, steaming, blanching, cutting them into sticks for snacks, roasting, BBQing, and sautéing. * Broccoli or broccolini * Asian greens: bok choy, pak choy, choy sum * Baby spinach * Cucumber * Squash * Tomato * Mushrooms * Carrots * Pumpkin * Green beans * Snow peas, or sugar snap peas * Lettuce: Resolve to stay healthy for the Season!

26

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Argentina protest organisers T&T: Cop in fatal Courts will have to cover security double killings arrested costs, Government says T

O

rganisers of a protest against the economic reforms of Argentina’s new Government will have to cover policing costs, the new Government said.

Security costs for the demonstration reached 60M pesos (£59,000; US$75,000) and the “bill [would] be sent to the social movements”, a spokesman said.

Thousands took to the streets of Buenos Aires this week to protest against the policies of new President Javier Milei.

He has announced plans for “economic shock therapy” including spending cuts.

More than a dozen social organisations will have to pay the security costs for the protests - in which Police were deployed in large numbers - covering fuel consumption and “average man hours”, according to reports.

These groups will “bear the responsibility of the cost which should not fall on citizens,” Government spokesman Manuel Adorni said.

Organisers had criticised

Thousands took to the streets of Buenos Aires this week to protest against the policies of new President Javier Milei

the heavy show of security as an attempt at provocation.

“This reminds me of the dictatorship” of the 1970s and 1980s, Eduardo Belliboni, leader of the protest group Polo Obrero, said of the security response.

President Milei, who took office less than two weeks ago, has promised tough action against groups that try to thwart his plans with disruptive protests.

His Government has announced reforms including privatising state companies, as well as deep cuts to public spending, such as a reduction in fuel and trans-

port subsidies.

Last week, it weakened the value of its currency, the peso, by more than 50% against the US dollar.

The International Monetary Fund - to which Argentina owes US$44bn called the measures “bold” and said they would help create the environment for private sector growth.

Argentina is battling soaring inflation, with prices rising by around 150% over the last year. It is also struggling with low cash reserves and high Government debt, while 40% of the population live below the poverty line.

(BBC News)

Mexico launches coast-to-coast passenger and cargo railway

M

exico on Friday launched operations on a train line that crosses the country’s narrowest point from the Gulf coast to the Pacific Ocean, kicking off a flagship Government project as the Administration enters its last months in office.

The “Inter-Oceanic Train,” which will carry both passengers and cargo on a three-hour trip from the coastal hub of Coatzacoalcos in Veracruz state to the Pacific port of Salina Cruz, is part of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s plan to bring investment to the country’s poorer south.

The Government is also

hoping to attract investments from carmakers, tech firms and semiconductor producers in a dozen industrial parks in the area.

The two port towns are also home to major installations of state-run oil company Pemex.

Officials have pitched the train line as a potential rival to the Panama Canal, which curbed operations this year due to a historic drought.

“All the Asian countries are very interested,” Lopez Obrador said on Friday, “because Panama is at capacity.”

Analysts, however, estimate the rail line will be

able to ship just a fraction of what the canal moves.

Other lines connecting to the train’s main rail line are expected to be completed next year, officials said on Friday.

One of the branches will connect to the Mayan Train, another flagship project inaugurated last week, which will carry travellers from the southern state of Chiapas to the tourist town of Cancun once all sections are completed.

Experts, however, have warned that the Mayan Train has run nearly four times over budget and is still far from being finished.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

El Salvador court orders arrest of former President for cover-up of massacre

A

local court in El Salvador has ordered the arrest of former President Alfredo Cristiani for the alleged cover-up of the 1981 El Mozote massacre during the Central American country’s civil war that lasted twelve years.

In the document, issued by a court in San Francisco Gotera on Friday,

Cristiani, 76, is named as one of 10 people who promoted a general amnesty law that was approved in 1993 and exonerates those accused of war crimes.

Calling the El Mozote massacre a “crime against humanity,” the document orders the capture of the former President and four other defendants who later were part of the country’s

congress.

During the El Mozote massacre, some 1000 peasants died in a four-day counterinsurgency military operation.

When Cristiani was President, he signed the peace accords in 1992 in Mexico City that ended a conflict that left an estimated 75,000 dead.

(Reuters)

he Police Constable accused of killing two people and injuring two others during an incident at the Courts Megastore in San Juan on Sunday, was arrested by a team of officers on Thursday night.

The team included personnel from the Port-of-Spain Criminal Investigations Department and the Professional Standards Bureau.

Guardian Media learned that the officer, who is attached to the Witness

Protection Programme, was taken into custody and will be questioned on Friday before investigators approach the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.

A senior official confirmed that statements had been recorded from over ten witnesses as part of the investigation thus far.

He said, “Investigations are at a delicate stage.”

While he was unable to say where the officer was being held overnight, the official said no charges will

be laid until the investigators consult with the DPP Roger Gaspard to determine “whether the threshold for prosecution had been reached, or if they would have to continue with the investigations.”

In the December 20 fatal incident, siblings Simeon and Siniaya Lessey were killed during an alleged transaction on the furniture and appliance giant’s premises, while Kerrey-Ann Moore and Nathan Pierre were injured. (Trinidad Guardian)

T&T PM on Dragon gas deal signing: A brighter future ahead

P

rime Minister Dr Keith Rowley said that Thursday night’s signing of the licence allowing Shell and majority State-owned National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC) to develop and produce natural gas from Venezuela’s Dragon field will contribute to T&T seeing a brighter future and to citizens continuing to enjoy the quality of life to which they have become accustomed.

“We’ve made some substantial progress, but there’s a lot more to be done, and the future, while it’s not a boom, but it’s a brighter future as of today,” the Prime Minister said at a media conference at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s.

Dr Rowley described the agreement on the licence as being “an historic development” and “extremely important” for the country’s future.

Asked what the Dragon gas licence means for the

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley sharing a light moment with members of the media while walking off the podium after hosting a media conference at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s. At left, Minister of Energy Stuart Young holds up a copy of the licence for T&T to develop the Dragon gas field in partnership with global energy giant Shell

people of T&T, Rowley said, “It means we can plan a future based on prospective revenues that would not have been on the horizon if we did not have access to these raw materials. I want the people of Trinidad and Tobago to see natural gas coming from Venezuela as a raw material...”

The Prime Minister pointed out that at its peak,

T&T used 4.2 billion cubic feet (bcf) per day of natural gas in the production of petrochemicals and in the liquefaction of natural gas.

That means T&T has the capacity to utilise 4.2 bcf of natural gas, but because of the maturity of the existing natural gas fields, the current usage of natural gas has fallen to about 2.6 bcf.

(Trinidad Guardian)

Prosecution pauses execution of criminal sentence of ex-President of Suriname

T

he prosecution on Friday suspended the execution of the prison sentences imposed earlier this week by the Court of Justice on ex-President Desi Bouterse and four co-convicts.

This decision was made after the lawyer of the five men, all ex-army officers, formally informed the Public Prosecution Service that they were considering asking for clemency from the President of Suriname.

Former President Desi Bouterse was sentenced on Wednesday during an appeal to an unconditional prison sentence of 20 years for his involvement in the

murder of fifteen men on December 8, 1982. It was not proven during the trial that Bouterse himself murdered one or more victims.

Bouterse, the then Commander of the Surinamese National Army and de facto Head of Government at the time of the murders, was the main suspect in this criminal case.

The other suspects, Ernst Gefferie, Iwan Dijksteel, Stephanus Dendoe and Benny Brondenstein, were each sentenced to 15 years in prison. According to current legislation, the convicted persons must submit the request for pardon to the registry of the court

that convicted them within 8 days after the sentence has been served on them, after which the request will be forwarded to the Head of State.

The President will then have to seek advice from the court regarding the pardon request, after which the Head of State must make a decision.

It is still unclear whether the convicts will actually submit a request for clemency. Although he has officially informed the prosecution of his clients’ intention, their lawyer, Irvin Kanhai, is not in favour of submitting a request for clemency. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

27

Around the World

Fighting rages in northern Gaza; OILNEWS OIL NEWS Biden speaks with Netanyahu OPEC influence wavers as US shale roars back

I

n April this year, OPEC surprised oil markets by announcing additional production cuts in a bid to stimulate prices to go higher.

Prices did go higher. There was nothing to stop them. US drillers were busy returning cash to shareholders, supply growth was sluggish everywhere, and demand looked robust.

Fast forward to December, and the 1-million-bpd growth in US oil production is the talk of the town, OPEC is running out of options, and the oil market is more unpredictable than ever.

It appears that along with the latest Middle Eastern war, the expansion in US oil production was the surprise of the year. Back in April, analysts were confident that US shale drillers would remain focused on shareholder returns and capital discipline and would not dare think about production growth too much.

“We’re now into several years of players like us running these businesses for returns and free cash flow, and that’s not going to change in the short term or the long term,” the chief executive of Ovintiv said at the time as quoted by Bloomberg.

“The OPEC cut was only possible because of the inability/ unwillingness of the US shale oil sector to grow at the same rate as it was in 2016-2020,” notorious oil trader John Arnold said in April.

The above pretty much illustrates the dominant opinion on US oil for much of the year. On top of that, for much of the year, drillers were shedding rather than adding rigs, contributing to that dominant opinion.

And here was the why: “The US is unlikely to fill in the OPEC gap anytime soon,” Peter McNally, global head of energy at Third Bridge, a market intelligence firm, told Bloomberg at the time.

“The stock market has punished those producers who have committed to more aggressive spending plans.”

In the mind of industry observers, drilling rig numbers and spending were the only indicators worth following for a glimpse into production trends. It turned out this was wrong. Because US shale producers managed to boost production without spending more and without using more rigs, catching the market—and OPEC—by surprise.

Crude oil production in the US hit 13.2 million barrels in September, according to the latest data from the EIA. A year ago, EIA forecasted production at 12.5 million bpd for the fourth quarter of the year. Of course, production could yet decline from the September record, but it is unlikely to decline this much. US shale surprised everyone.

The reason it surprised everyone was well productivity. While everyone was watching the weekly rig count—which has declined by 20% overall this year—frackers worked on improving their drilling techniques and technology. And it paid off.

Back in August, no fewer than five large shale oil producers reported higher-than-expected well productivity. Pioneer Natural Resources, Ovintiv, Occidental Petroleum, Diamondback Energy, and Chevron all said their wells were producing more than previously expected. Apparently, the news was largely ignored, judging by the surprise that is gripping everyone right now.

Now, analysts are probably treating their fixation on the rig count and paying more attention to reports about well productivity improvements, and OPEC is running out of options.

The cuts implemented earlier this year actually helped US shale.

They stabilised prices at relatively high levels, boosting returns and possibly even placating shareholders. And, because US oil sells relatively cheaply, it helped drive the export surge.

The Energy Information Administration predicts that growth in US oil production will slow significantly in 2024. It expects this growth at just 180,000 bpd, from an average of 12.93 million bpd this year to an average of 13.11 million bpd next year.

The EIA must have sound reasons for this prediction, just as it had sound reasons for last year’s prediction of this year’s production rate. Forecasts are not set in stone. They often turn out to be wrong because they necessarily make a number of assumptions, including the assumption of increasingly weaker oil demand growth.

Yet oil demand has repeatedly surprised forecasts, just like US shale drillers. It should have peaked in 2019, per BP, and it was supposed to slow down considerably this year and next, per the IEA. Instead, this year, demand hit an all-time high, and the IEA recently updated its 2024 forecast, saying that demand was now expected to grow faster because of moderating prices.

While this happens, OPEC is busy expanding. This is the alternative to a price war, as it seeks to add more large oil producers that could participate in production control plans to make them more effective. If the expansion plan does not live up to expectations, however, a price war would be OPEC’s only option as US drillers chug along with their longer laterals and shorter well-drilling times. The question is whether it is still a safe option. (Oilprice.com)

I

srael battled Hamas militants on Saturday in pursuit of its elusive goal of full control of northern Gaza after the UN Security Council appealed for more aid for the Palestinian enclave but stopped short of demanding a ceasefire.

Thick smoke hung over the northern town of Jabalia and residents reported persistent aerial bombardment and shelling from Israeli tanks, which they said had moved further into the town.

Hamas' armed wing Al Qassam Brigades said it had destroyed five Israeli tanks in the area, killing and injuring their crews, after reusing two undetonated missiles launched earlier by Israel. Reuters could not independently verify the report.

Israel's chief military spokesperson said on Friday that its forces had achieved almost complete operational control of northern Gaza and were preparing to expand the ground offensive to other areas in the Strip, with a focus on the south.

US President Joe Biden discussed the situation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday, the White House said. Israel's main ally has kept up its support while expressing concern over the growing casualty toll and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said earlier they had fired decoy shots in the area of Issa in Gaza City that lured dozens of militants from a building that served as a Hamas headquarters in the north of the

A Palestinian stands at the site of an Israeli strike on a house, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, December 22, 2023

enclave.

The army also released a video it said showed Hamas tunnels in the Issa area.

Reuters could not independently verify the location or the date. Israel accuses

the militant group of placing tunnels and other military infrastructure among civilians to use them as human shields, something Hamas denies. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia bans anti-war candidate from challenging Putin

A

former TV journalist who announced she would challenge President Putin in Russia's spring election has been barred from standing.

Independent politician Yekaterina Duntsova wanted to run on a platform to end the war with

Ukraine.

But the electoral commission voted unanimously to reject her candidacy three days after her application, citing 100 "mistakes" on her form.

Duntsova said she would appeal the decision at the Supreme Court.

Second North Korean nuclear reactor appears to be operational, IAEA says

A

new reactor at North Korea's Yongbyon nuclear complex appears to be operating for the first time, the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts said on Thursday, which would mean an additional potential source of plutonium for nuclear weapons.

North Korea has for years used spent fuel from a 5-megawatt nuclear reactor at Yongbyon to produce plutonium for its nuclear arsenal but a telltale discharge of warm water from a larger light-water reactor suggests it is coming online, too, the International Atomic Energy Agency said.

"The discharge of warm water is indicative the reactor has reached criticality," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement, meaning the nuclear chain reaction in the reactor is self-sustaining.

The IAEA has not had access to North Korea since Pyongyang expelled its inspectors in 2009. The agency now observes the country mainly using satellite im-

agery. Without access, the IAEA cannot confirm the reactor's operational status, Grossi said.

The IAEA says it has observed a strong outflow of water from the light-water reactor's cooling system since October, suggesting ongoing commissioning of the reactor. More recent indications are that the water was warm, Grossi said.

"The LWR, like any nuclear reactor, can produce plutonium in its irradiated fuel, which can be separated during reprocessing, so this is a cause for concern," he said, adding that the advancement of North Korea's nuclear program was "deeply regrettable".

Researchers at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) in California also concluded the reactor is most likely operating, adding that it may be "a significant source of nuclear material" for the nuclear weapons programme, which is banned by UN Security Council resolutions.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

The presidential election, which will be held in March 2024, is Russia's first since President Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago.

The immediate slapdown of a Putin critic will be seen as evidence by some that no dissent will be tolerated in the campaign.

The head of Russia's electoral commission, Ella Pamfilova, said Duntsova would not be allowed to progress to the next stage of gathering thousands of supporters' signatures.

"You are a young woman, you have everything ahead of you. Any minus can always be turned into a plus. Any experience is still an experience," she told Duntsova, 40, after the de-

cision.

The former TV journalist had declared she would run for the presidency in November. At the time, she told the Reuters news agency: "Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win."

Russia's constitution was amended in 2020, increasing the presidential term from four to six years and giving Putin a clean slate to run again by cancelling out his previous terms.

Moscow has sidelined opposition figures for years, and President Putin is expected to win in March; the Kremlin claims he enjoys genuine support among Russians. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Gunmen kill at least 20 people in western Burundi

G

unmen killed at least 20 people and wounded nine others near Burundi's western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Government told reporters on Saturday, in an attack claimed by the Red Tabara rebel group.

Those killed in the Friday evening raid on a village called Vugizo included 12 children, two pregnant women and a Police officer, Government spokesperson Jérôme Niyonzima said.

Red Tabara, which has

been battling Burundi's Government from bases in eastern Congo since 2015, claimed on the social media platform X to have killed nine soldiers and one Police officer.

Local residents said they heard sounds of gunfire and explosions during the attack.

Red Tabara previously said it had attacked and destroyed equipment at the country's international airport in Bujumbura in September, although no casualties were reported.

(Reuters)

28

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

ARIES

Tolerance

and

kindness

(March 21- will be necessary. Digging up April 19) the past won’t help improve things or shine a positive light on you. Do a little soul-searching before you point a finger at others.

A change is overdue, and TAURUS getting back to your roots will (April 20help you move forward. Not May 20) everyone will like your decisions, but it’s time to do what makes you happy.

Don’t limit your accomGEMINI plishments.

Set your sights (MAY 21on what’s important to you June 20) and make it happen. Refuse to let anyone put you in a compromising position or lead you astray.

Show off your attributes, CANCER (June 21- have some fun and make posJuly 22) itive changes. Call on those you enjoy working alongside to let them know that you’d like to collaborate more often.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Pickles VIRGO

Be aware of family dynamics and make it easier for someone having difficulty fitting in to feel welcome.

Altering your appearance or surroundings will lead to praise.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Speak up and make a difference, but first make sure you have your facts straight.

Someone will mislead you if given the chance. Do what’s right, tell the truth and listen to common sense.

SCORPIO

Address pressing money, health or family issues. Making a few changes will end your worries and give you hope for a brighter future. Love and romance are on the rise, and fun times are approaching.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Peanuts

Use your imagination and surprise everyone with your offerings. Don’t let money slip through your fingers. Show others your heartfelt love and gratitude. Avoid situations that can lead to health risks.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

You’ll face disappointment SAGITTARIUS if you expect someone to come (Nov. 23through for you without keepDec. 21) ing tabs on their progress.

Don’t lose sight of your goal or let emotional factors intervene.

Calvin and Hobbes

If you do something charCAPRICORN itable, the outcome will be (Dec. 22meaningful.

Let your intuJan. 19) ition guide you when dealing with money, legal matters and health. Make changes at home that will ease stress.

AQUARIUS Cozy up with the people you love, and enjoy the spirit (Jan. 20of the season. Sit back and be Feb. 19) thankful for what you have.

Envision the changes you want to make, start conversations and get the ball rolling.

PISCES Don’t let your emotions (Feb. 20- step in and limit what you Mar. 20) can achieve. Be honest with yourself and do what’s best for you. How you handle sensitive issues will make a difference.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

29

Ind vs SA 2023: 2-match Test series starting on Dec 26…

India return to sporting South Africa, still chasing history I

ndia's previous Test series in South Africa is unfortunately remembered most instantly for their meltdown on the field and the outpouring of pent-up frustration into the stump mics. The refrain was that the broadcasters were allegedly doing all within their power to help the home side.

"A whole nation against 11 guys!" KL Rahul shouted in the vicinity of the stump mics. It was an uncharacteristic outburst from a team built on cold, calculated professionalism, because you couldn't hope to achieve anything through such a meltdown.

Perhaps it was the frustration of coming close to a first series win in South Africa yet again and watching it slip away.

Perhaps India had felt the broadcasters were scrutinising their maintaining of the ball a lot more than they did the hosts’. It is not an entirely fantastical thought: broadcasters can provide the only evidence for ball-tampering, and no home player has ever been caught so far.

Whatever India might have felt at the time about the host broadcasters, that host country has not been hostile to them. Of their last five Test tours to South Africa, spanning 16 years, India have won a Test on four of them, and come pretty close to winning on other tours too; taken the series to a decider on four occasions; and been in the series lead twice.

Despite having won the last two Test series in Australia, India can't claim to have been as consistently competitive in any of the countries that are traditionally difficult for Asian teams to tour - Australia, England,

New Zealand being the others - as they have been in South Africa. In fact, even during the dark cricketing decade of the 1990s - one away Test win in 10 years - India were once thwarted from closing out a Test in Johannesburg only by an electric storm.

South Africa doesn't limit these pleasantries just to India. Apart from Australia and England, who generally enjoy playing there, Sri Lanka have also recently won a series 2-0 in South Africa. Since the start of 2006, when India started touring South Africa more regularly, England and South Africa have a similar win-loss ratio at home of 2.4 and 2.1, and are in the middle of that table.

It's not because South Africa are not a good team anymore, but because the country offers some of the most sporting conditions among dominant home sides.

The conditions in South Africa don't take the opposition bowlers out of the game. Not ev-

Dean Elgar, KL Rahul et al will face off once again in what should be another enthralling Test series

but visiting bowlers are often competitive in South Africa and England. Even England, of late, has been taking spinners out of the game. In South Africa, though, the visiting spinners can find something, once you move out of the Highveld.

Basically, the country as-

The St George's Park steel band will be in full flow

ery team can hope to have the kind of bowling needed to win in India and Australia,

sists the widest variety of bowlers. Australia can eliminate swing bowlers, but South

Africa can't. New Zealand can necessitate swing bowlers, but South Africa can't.

From nibbly seam movement at 135kph to genuine swing to raw pace, everything tends to work. While lateral movement doesn't entirely die, the major source of jeopardy in the second innings is usually uneven bounce.

A seam bowler such as Vernon Philander bowling in the mid-130s can be a terror; but, equally, swing at high pace like Dale Steyn's works. as matches progress, hit-thedeck bowlers come into their own because of the cracks opening. There can be enough in Durban and Gqeberha - sometimes even in Cape Town - for spinners to win you Tests, as Rangana Herath and Harbhajan Singh have shown.

All this makes batting difficult, but runs come quickly when the conditions settle down. More importantly, the conditions reduce the home advantage by giving the visitors various ways to attack you. To the other extreme of

competitiveness, sometimes incomplete attacks can also succeed because you don't have to keep coming back for good spell after good spell.

In many ways, playing in South Africa is like playing in England, which is why these two teams travel to the other country well. Except that it rains much less during the South African summer.

Add to the sporting conditions the picturesque grounds with grass banks, and fun activities in the stadium: from the plunge pool at Centurion to the steel band at St George's Park, and South Africa is not far from being the best place to watch Test cricket.

India, in particular, have managed to find bowlers who regularly keep them competitive in South Africa. Since November 2006 - and this includes series against some great South African sides India's bowlers have averaged only five runs more than South Africa's in South Africa.

The corresponding number is 10 in England and seven in

Australia.

That's perhaps why it hurts India the most that South Africa is the only place where they haven't won a series. That's possibly why they collectively let themselves go in January last year. How much Test cricket is decided by bowlers, though, was apparent in how the series last year came down to the taller South African bowlers deriving more out of the pitch in the second innings of the last Test. This was when South Africa were believed to be ripe for the picking, with the biggest name in their batting being Dean Elgar.

How many of these Indian players would get such a chance again, they must have wondered. Luckily for them, the Future Tours Programme released later in the year had them touring South Africa the following year itself. Quite a few members of that team now have another shot at being the first ones to win a series in South Africa. If anything, their batting looks reinforced, which they will hope offsets the absence of Rishabh Pant. India are fortunate that Jasprit Bumrah is back, but unfortunate that Mohammed Shami won't be available. South Africa have their own fitness concerns with their bowlers.

Despite being reduced to just two Tests, this series once again promises to be one wherein India will be more than hopeful, as they have been on their last two tours to this country. And like the previous tours, you won't bet against South Africa finding bowlers to hold the fort. It could come down to fine margins again. (ESPNCricinfo)

FIA sporting director quits after less than a year in the job

S

teve Nielsen has resigned from his role as Sporting Director of Formula 1's governing body, the FIA, less than a year after being appointed. He was appointed in January 2023 with a mandate to improve the FIA's race control operations after a series of controversies in recent years.

No reason has been given for Nielsen's departure, but sources say he was unhappy with several parts of his role. Nielsen, 59, was unavailable for comment when approached by BBC Sport.

F1 insiders have told BBC Sport that Nielsen felt the FIA was not willing to make the changes he felt were required to make its race-control operations fit for purpose.

The teams and drivers all backed Nielsen's move to

the FIA, and are likely to be dismayed by his decision to leave, and concerned about its potential ramifications.

At the Belgian Grand Prix this year, Mercedes driver George Russell, a director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, said Nielsen had been "a really great addition" to the FIA's operations team.

Nielsen's departure, communicated to the FIA internally on 21 December, is the second from a senior role in the governing body in the last two weeks. On December 13, Deborah Mayer resigned from her position as head of the FIA's Commission for Women. The FIA did not respond to a request for comment on the subject of either Nielsen or Mayer.

The resignations come in the wake of FIA President,

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, finding himself caught in the latest of a series of controversies since he was elected in December 2021. Earlier this month, the FIA launched a compliance investigation into Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff and his wife Susie Wolff, the F1 Academy director, on the basis of "media speculation centred on the allegation of information of a confidential nature being passed to an F1 team principal from a member of FOM personnel".

Its position was undermined when Mercedes and F1 put out strongly-worded statements rejecting their accusation, followed by identically worded and co-ordinated statements from all Mercedes' rival teams, saying they had made no such complaint. Two

Britain's Steve Nielsen left a senior F1 position to become FIA Sporting Director

days after announcing the investigation, the FIA put out a second statement saying the inquiry had been concluded.

Nielsen was appointed in a restructure of the FIA's

F1 operations, which named Nikolas Tombazis as single-seater director. Tombazis, who had previously been the FIA's F1 technical director, was Nielsen's immediate

boss.

Nielsen joined the FIA after a long career in the sport, in which he established himself as one of its most respected functionaries.

He had been sporting director for the Tyrell, Benetton, Renault and Williams teams before joining commercial rights holder F1 in 2017, following the sport's takeover by US group Liberty Media, under the same job title. He was recruited by former managing director Ross Brawn and president Stefano Domenciali.

Among many other things, Nielsen played a key role in helping to organise a 2020 season in the midst of COVID-19. F1 was the first international sport to resume activities during the pandemic. (BBC Sport)

30

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

Rebecca Welch is first woman Dynamic secure to referee in Premier League semifinal spot with R 4-1 win over Airy Hall

From left to right: Tyrice Doris, Shawn Adonis and Emmanuel Lewis

D

ynamic Football Club has secured a semifinal spot in the Candy Boss and Antics GT BEER 8-a-side football tournament being played in New Amsterdam when they beat Airy Hall Football Club 4-1 in their quarterfinal match played last evening at the All-Saints School Ground on Princess Elizabeth Road.

A goal from Tyrice Doris in the 9th minute signalled Dynamic Football Club’s intention. But it was not until seconds before referee Colin Bowery blew his whistle to indicate the end of the first half that Shawn Adonis was able to find the back of the net.

Emmanuel Lewis

made it 3-0 when he scored five minutes into the second half. However, Oma Williams pulled one back for Airy Hall with a shot from inside the 18-yard box. It gave some hope to the East Coast Demerara team, but Doris put the final nail in the coffin in the 57th minute to give Dynamic a 4-1 win.

On Thursday Monedderlust booked their semifinal spot by beating Cougars U20 2-nil.

Scoring for Modderlust were Kevin Catty and Jaden Thom.

Action continues on Tuesday, when Cougars take on defending champions Paradise in the first game of the doubleheader.

The second game will bring together inaugural tournament champions Police FC and Rosignol FC. The semifinals will be played on Thursday, and the final is set for December 30.

Over the $1M in cash prizes will be up for grabs.

The MVP, best goalkeeper and person scoring the most goals will each receive cash prizes.

Among the sponsors are the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; The National Sports Commission; Banks DIH; Slingers Football Club; Trophy Stall, and Two Brothers Service Station.

(G-4)

ebecca Welch made history on Saturday when she became the first woman to referee a Premier League fixture. The 40-year-old took charge of the Fulham match against Burnley at Craven Cottage, which kicked off at 15:00 GMT. Welch became a referee in 2010, and combined it with a job in the NHS before becoming a fulltime official in 2019. In January, Welch became the first woman to referee a men's fixture in the Championship. She returned to Craven Cottage a month on from serving as the fourth official during Fulham's 1-0 Premier League defeat by Manchester United.

Welch was the first woman to take charge of an FA Cup third-round tie in 2022, after being added to the EFL's national list for men's football, which oversees both League One and League Two fixtures.

Hailing from Washington in Tyne and Wear, this referee has been a leading light for English officials in the Women's Super League. Her work has been recognised on the international stage too, as she was added to the FIFA elite list of international match officials in December 2020, before refereeing at the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in the

Rebecca Welch also refereed at the Women's World Cup this summer

summer.

"We have not seen a female take charge of a Premier League game ever before," referees' chief Howard Webb told BBC Sport. "We have some really talented officials in the men's and women's game. Rebecca is leading that. She went to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She has been exposed to some big games, and is a really good model for women and girls, to think refereeing is for them when previously they didn't."

In July, the Football Association laid out plans to recruit 50% more referees from "historically underrepresented" backgrounds by 2026, targeting an increase of 1,000 women referees and 1,000 black or Asian referees

Richarlison scores again

T

bled Spurs' advantage soon after, with Johnson again providing a key supporting role. The Wales international picked the ball up from a short corner and fired in a powerful drive, which Everton keeper Jordan Pickford palmed away. It fell to Son, who slid the ball home with Pickford being caught in a crowd of players and unable to intervene.

Everton showed plenty of attacking intent in an entertaining match, and Dominic CalvertLewin scored five minutes after half-time - only for the video assistant referee to disallow the goal following a foul by Gomes on Emerson Royal in the build-up.

Gomes, who spent last season on loan at Lille before suffering a calf injury, made some amends with a fine volleyed strike on 82 minutes to set up a grandstand finish, but Spurs

Richarlison

held on.

30 not out for free-scoring Spurs

Tottenham had the chance to give their fans an early Christmas present by moving into the top four, and they delivered in typical Ange Postecoglou attacking style.

Spurs have now scored in 30 consecutive Premier League games, and are the only team in the division

to register a goal in every league match this season.

The impact of Postecoglou's gung-ho tactics were visible in Spurs' lightning start, and in Everton having plenty of chances themselves. It is also evidenced in the scoring stats of Richarlison. He managed just two goals in his first 39 league games for Spurs, but now has six goals already this season.

The form of the 26-year-

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– as Spurs move into top four ottenham Hotspur have moved into the Premier League top four after beating Everton in a thrilling encounter.

Richarlison opened the scoring against his former club with his fourth goal in three matches, before Son Heung-min doubled Spurs' advantage soon after.

Everton deservedly pulled a goal back through Andre Gomes, playing in his first Premier League game since May 2022, but Spurs move above Manchester City - absent from league action due to the Club World Cup - into fourth.

Defeat for Everton ended a four-match winning run and leaves then just four points above the relegation zone.

Brazilian Richarlison put the hosts ahead after just nine minutes, slotting in Brennan Johnson's low cross at the near post. Son dou-

at all levels of football in three years. (BBC Sport)

old has been a welcome boost for Postecoglou in restoring Spurs' top four challenge, after it was shaken by poor results in November and early December; although there was worry for the manager, as the striker had to be taken off in the second half with an apparent back injury.

Meanwhile, Son's goal was his 11th league goal in 2023-24, more than his tally from last season.

While Everton came away with no points, they contributed plenty, with the hosts frequently grateful to goalkeeper Gigi Vicario's saves. Vicario could do little to stop Calvert-Lewin's strike sweeping past him on 50 minutes; but was saved by VAR. Nor could he stop James Garner's strike shortly after, which hit the outside of the far post.

But after being beaten by Gomes's strike, Vicario proved the saviour once more with two late stops from Arnaut Danjuma, including keeping a 97th-minute volley out with his thigh after the former Spurs winger struck the bar. (BBC Sport)

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

31

Clarendon College clinch KFC International Goodwill title C

larendon College of Jamaica added another title to their 2023 collection when they pipped Trinidad and Tobago’s St. Benedict’s College in the KFC International Goodwill series final on Friday night.

Clarendon had earlier this month won both the DaCosta Cup and Olivier Shield in Jamaican School Football competitions.

In the opening minutes of the game, the two finalists looked evenly poised, but Clarendon managed to hold their intensity longer while wearing down their St Benedict’s counterparts.

A set piece from the corner allowed Clarendon to get into the box, but the ball

Chase’s Bryan Wharton receiving his Golden Boot for being the tournament’s highest goal-scorer

nets for the ice-breaker in the 32nd.

The remainder of the

Clarendon’s Dante Walters was adjudged tournament’s MVP

was sent back out of the 18yard area. There it met the feet of Daniel Clark, who ricocheted it back into the

half passed quietly, but the Jamaica side returned from the break hungry to extend the lead. As such, in the 53rd minute, capi-

talizing from another corner kick opportunity, Justin Hayles caught the rebound when his teammate missed the shot, and headed the ball into the goal for the Jamaicans’ second strike.

St. Benedict’s managed to pull one back, with Jeremiah Niles again showcasing his speed as he weaved through the Jamaicans’ defense to net the consolation in the 80th.

The goal seemed to motivate the Trinidadians, and their pursuit of the equalizer appeared instantly refreshed, but the Jamaicans’ tactics were superior, and they played a steady long ball to hold out for the 2-1 win.

Meanwhile, Chase’s Academic Foundation drubbed Suriname’s VMO 4 to seal third place in the competition. Leading from the front, Bryan Wharton

KEIRON POLLARD GETS STINT AS ENGLAND'S BATTING CONSULTANT – ahead of England’s T20 World Cup defence

F

ormer West Indies captain Kieron Pollard of Trinidad is set to start a new chapter in his decorated cricketing career, as he is expected to join reigning Twenty20 World champions England as a batting consultant ahead of England’s title defence in the Caribbean and the United States next year.

According to media reports, Pollard, 36, is expected to impart to England knowledge of Caribbean conditions and pitches for the showpiece tournament scheduled for June 4-30.

With the region being notorious in recent years for its low and slow pitches, conditions are expected to play a key role in the tournament; and, as such, Pollard's experience would be an asset for England.

Pollard’s appointment is expected to be flawless, as he is already acquainted with current England captain Jos Buttler, with whom he played during a couple of stints with county Somerset, and others with

Kieron Pollard

whom he had rubbed shoulders in franchise tournaments.

The powerfully built Pollard retired from international cricket last year, after a T20 series away to India two months prior.

He still continues to feature in the global short-format franchise leagues, and has recently led New York Strikers to victory in the Abu Dhabi T10.

His vast experience in the T20 format will also

be of value to England, as Pollard has 123 One-Day International and 101 T20 International appearances under his belt. Overall, he has featured in 537 T20s, scoring over 12,000 runs and taking 300 wickets from his part-time bowling.

Pollard was at the helm when West Indies copped the T20 World Cup title in 2021 to go along with the 2016 title won by a Darren Sammy-led team of which he had been part. (Sportsmax)

Clarendon’s Marco Thompson was adjudged best goalkeeper

opened the scoring in the 7th minute, and hit two majestic freekicks in the 58th and 60th minutes on his way to a helmet trick in the 64th minute.

Justin Alcindor backed up the score with a double in

the 23rd and 73rd minutes, while Omar Sam found the back of the net once in the 31st for Chase’s 7-0 victory.

Clarendon and St. Benedict’s walked away with $2500 USD ($500,000 GYD) and $1500USD

($300,000 GYD) for first and second places respectively.

Both sums were donated by President Dr Irfaan Ali. Chase’s pocketed $1000 USD ($200,000 GYD), while the fourth-placed Suriname got $500 USD ($100,000 GYD).

In individual prizes, Chase’s Bryan Wharton was the tournament’s highest goal scorer, netting 11 times; while Clarendon carted off the best goal-keeper and most valuable player (MVP) accolades in Marco Thompson and Dante Walters.

This tournament was sponsored by KFC Guyana, ExxonMobil, Ansa McAl’s Lucozade brand, MVP Sports and Pacaraima Suites, with support from the Ministries of Education and Culture, Youth and Sport.

"WHAT IS HAPPENING?" – Powell rues absence of cricket fixtures in Jamaica

I

n the midst of celebrating a hard-fought 3-2 series win over England, West Indies Twenty20 captain Rovman Powell has expressed disappointment about the absence of international and Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches in Jamaica, and has called on the Government, particularly Sport Minister Olivia "Babsy" Grange, to address the issue.

It has been almost two years since West Indies last played Ireland in a One-Day International contest in Jamaica last January, and four years since Jamaica Tallawahs last played at Sabina Park in 2019. This doesn't sit well with Powell, who yearns to again entertain Jamaican fans.

"I am a Jamaican, and I want to play in front of my home crowd; but for the last few years, I haven't," Powell lamented during a post-match interview after West Indies won the decisive contest against England by four wickets to clinch the five-match series at Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Thursday.

"West Indies Cricket Board (Cricket West Indies) and the Jamaica Government really have to sit down and have a conversation about that. Cricket has not played there for a long time…There are quite a few Jamaicans playing for West Indies now, and no cricket has been there," Powell argued.

Along with Powell, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas and Brandon King were all part of the triumphant West Indies team.

To add insult to injury, Jamaica will not have a franchise in next year's CPL tournament,

Jamaica Tallawahs won CPL titles in 2013, 2016 and 2022, the latter under Powell's leadership

as the Tallawahs are to be replaced by a yet-tobe-named franchise from Antigua and Barbuda. This would mark a return for another Leeward Islands franchise since the Antigua Hawksbills contested the first two CPL editions in 2013 and 2014.

"Even if you look at the CPL team, I heard reports that they are looking to move the CPL team from Jamaica. Jamaica is the biggest island in the Caribbean, a proud nation, a proud cricketing nation; and for those things to be happening, it is a little bit disappointing," Powell noted.

In fact, Sabina Park is currently being used to host football matches, which is contrary to its name as the ‘Cricket Mecca' of Jamaica, and Jamaica is an island that has produced many great West Indies players; such as George Headley, Lawrence Rowe, Michael Holding, Jeffrey Dujon, Courtney Walsh, Patrick Patterson, and in recent era, Chris Gayle, Russell, Powell and others.

Another Jamaican and West Indies stalwart, Nehemiah Perry, has also expressed discontent with the happenings at Sabina

Park, one of the oldest cricket grounds in the Caribbean, as it first hosted an international match almost 100 years ago. The first Test match played at Sabina Park was in 1930, and was between West Indies and England.

“I remember the days gone when we were talking about a Test series coming to the Caribbean.

There were some grounds that you knew were going to get games, like Sabina Park, Kensington Oval (Barbados), Queen’s Park Oval (Trinidad) et cetera," Perry said in a recent interview on the Mason and Guest radio show.

When a Test series was played in the Caribbean in the 1980s and 1990s, Jamaicans, Barbadians, Trinidadians, Guyanese and Antiguans could certainly look forward to seeing cricket played. Many other countries in the Caribbean have international cricket grounds now, so the traditional cricket venues in the region are no longer guaranteed matches. St Lucia, Grenada, Dominica, and St Kitts and Nevis have all hosted international cricket regularly over the past decade. (Sportsmax)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

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

Pg 31

clinch KFC International Goodwill title Pg 30

“WHAT IS HAPPENING?” Pg 31

– Powell rues absence of cricket fixtures in Jamaica

semifinal spot with 4-1 win over Airy Hall

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